Its been almost a year since the war ended and Sakura still can remember the words that Zabuza said to Kakashi.

"Looks like Kakashi's kunoichi has grown up."

What does he mean by that? Sakura hates to be known as someone's because she can sure be herself. And she can't believe how an Edo Tensei'd man can make her blood boil.

But Zabuza may be right in one thing. She had grown up and she currently have the famous copy nin wrapped around her little finger. Okay, she sounds like a little evil. No, she doesn't mean it that way, she truly loves Kakashi, it just that being referred as being someone's, is something that makes her look weak.

She felt strong arms wrap around her waist and a cloth-covered nose nuzzle her neck.

Sakura took a deep breath as she felt Kakashi's presence behind her. His familiar scent mixed with a hint of earth and nature calmed her racing thoughts. She tilted her head slightly, allowing Kakashi's affectionate gesture to linger.

"Zabuza has a way of getting under your skin, doesn't he?" Kakashi's low, soothing voice reached her ears.

Sakura chuckled, turning in his arms to face him. "You could say that. But I guess he might be onto something."

Kakashi raised an eyebrow, his visible eye locking onto hers. "Oh? And what might that be?"

Sakura smirked, feeling a newfound confidence. "Well, I did grow up, didn't I? And it seems I've managed to wrap a certain copy ninja around my finger."

Kakashi chuckled, he removed his mask and buried his nose deeper into her neck. "Wrapped around your finger, huh?" He asked. "Are you sure?"

Sakura could feel Kakashi's warm breath against her neck as he spoke. She grinned, enjoying the playful banter.

"Oh, I'm very sure," she replied with a teasing tone. "I've got you right where I want you."

Kakashi chuckled, the vibrations sending a pleasant shiver down Sakura's spine. "Well, I suppose I can't argue with that." he trailed kisses on her neck. "But you know maybe Zabuza is just telling us that you've become stronger. Much stronger than you used to be."

Sakura's laughter mixed with a hint of surprise as Kakashi continued to trail kisses along her neck. She felt a warmth spreading through her, both from the affectionate gestures and the realization that Kakashi saw her growth in a different light.

"You think so?" she asked, a playful smile on her lips. "I guess he might have a weird way of complimenting people."

Kakashi lifted his head, his eyes meeting hers. "Zabuza always had a unique perspective. But he might be right. Strength isn't just about physical prowess. It's also about resilience, growth, and the ability to stand your ground." he murmured. "But you did almost make me have a heart attack with that stunt you pulled with Sasuke."

Sakura laughed, the sound light and carefree. "Well, I had to do something to get your attention, didn't I? Besides, it all worked out in the end."

"If you wanted to get my attention, you don't have to go and try to have yourself get killed. You can just tell me." He planted a firm kiss to her cheek and he stood up. "Don't go around and get yourself killed while I'm gone." He sighed. "I have a full day of meeting today. Sometimes, I really just want to stab the elders with Chidori."

Sakura chuckled at Kakashi's comment, appreciating his sense of humor. "I'll keep that in mind, Kakashi. No life-threatening stunts without warning."

Kakashi ruffled her hair affectionately. "That's all I ask. I'd prefer not to have a heart attack before my meetings are done."

Sakura watched as Kakashi straightened his attire, the familiar silver hair falling back into place as he adjusted his hitai-ate. Despite the casual banter, there was an underlying sense of care and concern in his actions that made Sakura feel secure.

"Take care of yourself, okay?" Kakashi said, his eye softening. "I'll be back before you know it."

Sakura nodded, a warmth spreading through her chest. "I'll be right here, causing mischief and keeping things interesting."

Kakashi smirked, a playful glint in his eye. "I wouldn't expect anything less from my favorite troublemaker. See you later, Sakura."

As Kakashi disappeared from view, Sakura couldn't help but reflect on the journey that led her to this moment. Zabuza's words, once unsettling, now served as a reminder of her growth and the strength of the bonds she had formed. She stood beneath the cherry blossoms, a symbol of renewal and fleeting beauty, ready to face whatever challenges awaited her, with a newfound confidence and the memory of Kakashi's kisses lingering on her skin.