Kakashi lived there with Sakura for almost two months.

During those two months he saw how Sakura lived her live for almost decade. The house she's renting is small and sparsely decorated. She owned a small bag, like the ones they used for mission. And whatever fits there and what she is currently wearing or in her person are the only things she owned.

In the evenings, they would sit by the stream where they had first reunited, the sound of flowing water creating a backdrop for conversations that ranged from lighthearted reminiscence to the weightier matters of the heart. The journey of rediscovery unfolded slowly, and Kakashi made a conscious effort to listen, to understand, and to be present.

One day, as they strolled through the village market, Kakashi couldn't help but notice the simplicity of Sakura's attire. Her clothing, practical and well-worn, mirrored the nomadic lifestyle she had chosen. It became clear that material possessions held little significance for her, and her focus remained on the relationships and experiences she cultivated along her journey.

"Sakura," Kakashi began, choosing his words carefully. "Do you ever miss having a permanent home, more belongings, or a sense of stability?"

Sakura considered his question, her gaze thoughtful. "I used to think about those things a lot. But over the years, I've come to appreciate the freedom that comes with not being tied down. I've found fulfillment in helping others, in the brief encounters I make, and in the simplicity of each moment. Material things don't define happiness for me."

"Did you ever regret being with me, Sakura?" He asked, even though he is afraid of her possible answer.

Sakura's gaze met Kakashi's, and she took a moment before responding. "Regret is a strong word, Kakashi. I don't regret the time we spent together because it gave me Yumi." She sighed. "Although, I think it maybe it would be a different experience if you were not the Hokage that time."

Kakashi nodded, acknowledging the weight of her words. "I understand, Sakura. My responsibilities as Hokage took a toll on us, and I'm sorry for the pain it caused."

Sakura looked at him, her expression a mix of understanding and lingering hurt. "It's not just about your position, Kakashi. It's about the choices we both made. I had my own shortcomings too."

He sighed, a sense of regret evident in his eyes. "I should have been there for you. I should have anticipated the push back that we would face with the Council. If I had, maybe you would not have to leave."

Sakura tore her eyes away from Kakashi, and she looked at a distance. He thought that she looked like a goddess looking over her domain, but as his eyes traveled her form, he saw small discolorations in her body. Not just in her arms, but also in her legs and neck. It was like she's being beaten again, but he never laid an abusive hold on her so why is there bruises littering her body?

"Before I left for the second time, I thought I would live my life hating you." She said after a few minutes of silence. "You hurt me, Kakashi." She chanced a look at him then quickly tore her gaze away when she saw that he was looking at her. "But I realized that being with you has been a different kind of journey, but it's one I wouldn't trade for anything. I've learned so much about myself and about what truly matters in life."

"I should have fought for you, Sakura. Not let you go."

Sakura's gaze softened, and she placed a hand on his arm. "Kakashi, we can't change the past. What matters now is how we move forward. I left because I want to protect you." She stared at him. "My mama said before, that if I truly love a person, I can do everything just to make sure that the person I love is safe. And you're safe, Kakashi. That's the only thing that matters to me."

"But you don't have to, Sakura. You shouldn't have to leave. I lost too much because I wasn't strong enough to protect you."

Sakura's eyes held a mixture of compassion and determination. "Kakashi, strength isn't just about physical prowess. I left because I needed to find my own strength, to stand on my own and make choices for myself. It wasn't about you not being strong enough; it was about me needing to be strong for myself and for Yumi."

Kakashi absorbed her words, a weight lifting from his shoulders as he began to understand the complexity of their past. "Sakura, I want to be there for you now. I want to share the burden, to support you in every way I can."

She smiled, a small but genuine expression. "And I appreciate that, Kakashi. But we both need to find a balance, a partnership where we support each other without losing our individual strength."

As they stood by the stream, the water's gentle flow mirrored the currents of change in their relationship. Kakashi took Sakura's hand in his, a silent promise of solidarity.

"If I return to Konoha," Kakashi carefully started. "would you return with me?"

Sakura looked at Kakashi, her gaze searching. The question hung in the air, laden with the weight of their shared history and the possibilities of the future. After a thoughtful pause, she spoke.

"Is Yumi going to be there?" Sakura looked at Kakashi nodding.

"Yes, Yumi will be there."

She nodded. "Okay, I'll return to Konoha with you."

A mixture of relief and joy crossed Kakashi's face. He gently squeezed Sakura's hand, appreciating the significance of her decision. The shadows of their past started to fade as they stood together by the stream, embracing the promise of a new beginning.

"Thank you, Sakura," Kakashi whispered, a genuine smile playing on his lips.

She returned the smile, her eyes reflecting a sense of hope. "We have a lot to figure out, Kakashi. But we'll face it together, this time."

As they continued to stand beside the stream, the water's gentle flow seemed to echo the renewed currents in their relationship. The journey ahead would not be without challenges, but with their shared commitment, they were ready to navigate the complexities of their past and build a future together.