As the days passed, Sakura's due date approached, and the excitement in the household reached it's peak. The nursery was prepared with care, and Sakumo and Kikyo eagerly awaited the arrival of their baby sister. Kakashi, while still maintaining his calm demeanor, couldn't hide the anticipation and concern for Sakura's well-being.
One evening, as they sat together in the living room, Sakura suddenly winced, clutching her belly.
"Are you okay?" Kakashi asked, his eyes filled with concern.
Sakura took a deep breath, "It's okay, just a spasm. Not a contraction."
Kikyo who was sitting by her feet, looked at her. "Are you sure, Mommy? Aunt Hinata said it I should not take my eyes off you."
Sakura smiled at Kikyo's concern. "I appreciate that, sweetie. But don't worry, it's just a little discomfort. Contractions feel different. When it's time, we'll know."
Kakashi glanced at the clock, his worry evident. "Maybe we should go to the hospital, just to be sure."
Sakura shook her head, "No, not yet, Kakashi. It's too early, and the contractions aren't consistent. Let's wait a bit longer. I don't want to rush to the hospital only to be sent back home."
Kikyo looked at her parents with wide eyes. "What if the baby comes while we're at home?"
"Then I will take care of my sister." Sakumo said bravely. "I will protect her."
Sakura chuckled at Sakumo's determination. "That's sweet, Sakumo. But we'll try to make it to the hospital in time. Don't worry; Mommy and Daddy are here to take care of everything."
Kakashi nodded, placing a reassuring hand on Sakura's shoulder. "We've done this before. We know what to expect. Just let us know if the contractions become more intense or if anything feels off."
Sakura agreed, "Exactly. For now, let's try to relax and wait for the right moment. In the meantime, maybe we can distract ourselves with something. Sakumo, Kikyo, do you want to play a game or watch a movie?"
The kids exchanged excited glances, and Kikyo spoke up, "Movie! I want to watch a ninja movie, like Daddy's old missions!"
Sakumo nodded in agreement, "Yeah, that sounds cool! Mom, can we?"
Sakura smiled, "Of course! Let's make it a family movie night while we wait for our little ninja to make her debut."
As the family settled down to watch a ninja movie, the atmosphere in the room shifted from anticipation to a more relaxed and cozy vibe. Sakura's discomfort seemed to ease, and the kids were engrossed in the action on the screen. Kakashi kept a watchful eye on Sakura, ready to act if needed.
As the movie progressed, Sakura felt a sudden surge of pain, stronger than before. She winced, her hand gripping Kakashi's. "Okay, I guess, we should really go to the hospital." she said through gritted teeth.
Kakashi immediately stood up, a mix of concern and determination in his eyes. "Alright, let's go. Sakumo, Kikyo, get ready. We're heading to the hospital."
Sakumo and Kikyo scrambled to their feet, the excitement of the moment palpable. Sakura, despite the pain, managed a reassuring smile for her children. "It's time, you two. Your little sister is on her way."
Sakumo nodded seriously, his protective instincts kicking in. "I'll be the best big brother, Mommy. I promise."
Sakura couldn't help but feel a surge of pride at Sakumo's determination. "I know you will, Sakumo. Now, let's all get ready. Kakashi, I think you should let Okaa-san know."
"I already sent Pakkun." He informed her. "Don't worry, Lady Tsunade had been preparing for this."
As the family hurriedly prepared to leave for the hospital, Sakura's contractions intensified. Kakashi guided her gently, his steady presence offering comfort amid the anticipation. Sakumo and Kikyo, though excited, remained mindful of their mother's condition.
In the hospital, Tsunade was already waiting, ready to assist Sakura with the delivery. The medical staff swiftly got Sakura settled in a room, Kakashi followed her. "Don't worry, Sakura. Hinata and Naruto is on their way for the kids."
Sakura nodded at his words. "Okay." Then she held her stomach when another wave hit her. "It hurts so much." Sakura said through gritted teeth.
Tsunade, now in full doctor mode, checked Sakura's condition. "Hang in there, Sakura. You're doing great. Just a few more contractions, and we'll meet your little one."
Kakashi held Sakura's hand, offering words of encouragement. "You're strong, Sakura. Just a little more, and we'll have our baby in our arms."
Tears started to form in her eyes as another contraction hit her. "It hurts. This wasn't like with the other two." She gritted her teeth again and beads of sweat started to form in her forehead. "Kakashi," she cried. "I can't..." Whatever she's trying to say was cut off when another wave of pain hit her. She gripped Kakashi's hand tightly. "Kakashi."
Kakashi, who can't do anything for her, just wiped the beads of sweat from her forehead and brush the stray strands away from her face. He endured the pain that erupted from his hand when her grip became a painful vice. If she broke it, Tsunade or the other medics will heal his hand for him.
"Sakura, listen to me." Tsunade instructed her. "Can you try regulating your chakra? Just a steady flow through your stomach. It might lessen the pain."
Sakura nodded, trying to focus on Tsunade's instructions. She took a deep breath, closing her eyes and channeling her chakra as Tsunade had advised. Kakashi continued to support her, whispering words of encouragement and reassurance.
The minutes felt like hours as Sakura endured the intense waves of pain. But with each contraction, she focused on regulating her chakra, finding a rhythm that helped alleviate some of the discomfort. Kakashi stayed by her side, his unwavering presence providing a steady anchor.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Sakura's efforts paid off. Tsunade nodded approvingly. "That's it, Sakura. You're doing great. The baby is almost here."
As Sakura continued to push through the final stages of labor, Kakashi held her hand tighter, offering silent support. The room filled with a mix of tension and anticipation until, finally, a cry echoed through the room.
"It's a girl!" Tsunade announced, holding the newborn in her arms. "Congratulations, Sakura, Kakashi. You have a healthy baby girl."
Sakura, exhausted but overwhelmed with joy, smiled through tears. Kakashi, his eyes filled with emotion, couldn't tear his gaze away from their newborn daughter. He watched as Tsunade held out to him the scissors.
"Cut the cord, Kakashi." Tsunade told him.
Kakashi took the scissors, carefully cutting the umbilical cord with a sense of awe and responsibility. As the cord was severed, he felt an indescribable connection to the tiny, fragile life in Tsunade's arms.
Tsunade carefully handed the baby to one of the nurses to clean her off. When she came back a couple of minutes later, the nurse return with a swaddled baby in her arms.
"Let me see her." Sakura weakly said.
The nurse gently placed the swaddled baby in Sakura's arms. Kakashi, still standing by her side, couldn't help but marvel at the sight of their newborn daughter. Sakura's eyes shimmered with tears as she cradled the tiny bundle, a mix of joy and exhaustion evident on her face.
"She's beautiful," Kakashi whispered, his voice filled with wonder.
Sakura nodded, a radiant smile gracing her lips. "Our little miracle. Hello, sweetheart," she cooed, gently stroking the baby's cheek.
Kakashi leaned down, placing a gentle kiss on Sakura's forehead before turning his attention to their daughter. "Hey there, little one. We've been waiting for you."
As the family basked in the warmth of the precious moment, Tsunade checked on Sakura's condition. "You did an amazing job, Sakura. Now, let's make sure you both get some rest."
Sakura nodded, still holding their daughter close. "Okaa-san," she looked at her mother figure. "Arigato."
Tsunade smiled warmly. "Anytime, Sakura. I'm just glad everything went smoothly. Now, rest and enjoy this time with your new addition to the family."
Kakashi, still marveling at the sight of his daughter, spoke up. "What are we going to name her, Sakura?"
"How about 'Mizuki'? It means beautiful moon." she suggested.
Kakashi smiled, the name resonating with a sense of serenity and beauty. "Mizuki. It's a perfect name. Welcome to the world, Mizuki."
Sakura nodded in agreement, gently rocking their newborn daughter. She kissed the baby in her forehead. "I love you, Mizuki."
