Sakura looked up when a wrapped bento box was placed in front of her. She smiled at the man. "Genma."

Genma grinned, his usual laid-back demeanor evident. "Hey, Sakura. Thought I'd bring you some lunch. Figured you might be swamped with work, and I wanted to check on how you're doing."

Sakura's smile widened, appreciating the thoughtful gesture. "Thank you, Genma. That's really sweet of you. Work has been busy, but I'm managing. How about you?"

Genma took a seat across from her, leaning back casually. "Same old, same old. Just wanted to take a break from the usual routine and spend some time with you. Figured lunch might be a good opportunity."

Sakura chuckled, then looked at the door just behind her desk. "Uhm. I'll just give Hokage-sama his tea and I'll inform him that we'll have lunch together."

Genma nodded, his eyes glancing towards the door. "Sure, take your time. I don't mind waiting."

Sakura got up and approached Kakashi's office door. She knocked lightly before entering, carrying a kettle of hot tea.

"Hokage-sama, I brought your tea," she announced, placing the cup on his desk.

Kakashi looked up from his paperwork, a small smile on his face. "Ah, Sakura. Perfect timing, as always. Thank you."

Sakura nodded, a professional demeanor in place. "Is there anything else you need, Hokage-sama?"

"None."

"Can I asked to have my lunch early today? Genma brought lunch and he want to have lunch together."

Kakashi nodded and tried to hide his jealousy in his smile. "Of course, Sakura. Take the break you need and enjoy your lunch."

As Sakura left Kakashi's office, she closed the door behind her and turned to Genma, who was waiting patiently. "Hokage-sama said it's fine. Let's go ahead and have lunch."

Genma grinned, standing up. "Great! Lead the way, Sakura."

They found a quiet spot in the village, a peaceful courtyard where they could enjoy their meal away from the hustle and bustle of the Hokage's office. Sakura opened the bento box that Genma had brought, revealing a delicious assortment of homemade dishes.

"Wow, this looks amazing," Sakura exclaimed, genuinely impressed. "Did you make all of this, Genma?"

Genma scratched the back of his head, a sheepish grin on his face. "Well, I had some help from a friend. Cooking isn't exactly my strong suit, but I wanted to make sure it's something you'd enjoy."

Sakura laughed, touched by the effort. "I appreciate it, Genma. It's the thought that counts. Let's dig in."

As they enjoyed their lunch, the conversation flowed easily between them. They talked about work, shared stories, and even discussed their favorite pastimes. Sakura found herself appreciating Genma's laid-back yet attentive nature, and the casual atmosphere allowed her to relax.

Back in the Hokage's office, Kakashi observed the scene from a distance. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of discomfort, a mixture of jealousy and a sense of loss. The realization that Sakura was moving forward in her personal life with someone else brought an unexpected pang.

As the days passed, Sakura and Genma continued to spend time together, gradually building a connection beyond the confines of work. Kakashi, though supportive of Sakura's happiness, found himself grappling with the shifting dynamics and the unspoken emotions within.

One day, after a particularly busy morning, Sakura approached Kakashi's desk. "Hokage-sama, I wanted to request a few days off work next week. Genma and I are planning to go on a short trip together, and I want to make the necessary arrangements."

Kakashi nodded, his eyes reflecting a mix of understanding and a hint of resignation. "Of course, Sakura. Take the time off. It's important to have breaks and enjoy life outside of work. Just inform me of the details so we can manage any pending tasks."

"Thank you, Hokage-sama. I'll make sure to provide all the necessary information," Sakura replied, appreciating Kakashi's supportive stance.

As the day of Sakura's trip approached, the atmosphere in the Hokage's office seemed to carry a subtle tension. Kakashi, grappling with his own emotions, maintained a professional front while Sakura prepared for her time away.

On the day of her departure, Sakura entered Kakashi's office to finalize the details. "Hokage-sama, I've arranged for everything, and all pending tasks have been delegated. I'll be back in a few days, and I'll ensure a smooth transition upon my return."

Kakashi nodded, offering a small smile. "Enjoy your trip, Sakura. Take the time to relax and recharge. We'll manage here in your absence. If there's anything urgent, don't hesitate to contact me."

"Thank you, Hokage-sama. I appreciate your understanding. I'll see you in a few days," Sakura said, bowing slightly before leaving the office.

As Sakura embarked on her short trip with Genma, Kakashi couldn't shake the lingering sense of unease. The quiet office felt emptier without her presence, and he found himself contemplating the complexities of their evolving relationship.

During Sakura's absence, Kakashi found himself reflecting on the dynamics between them. The realization that Sakura had a life beyond the Hokage's office, complete with personal connections and experiences, stirred a mix of emotions within him.

He couldn't deny the subtle ache of loneliness that accompanied Sakura's absence. The routine of the office continued, but the atmosphere lacked the usual banter and camaraderie. Kakashi, in the solitude of his thoughts, acknowledged the deeper impact Sakura had on his life.

When Sakura returned from her trip, she entered the Hokage's office with a bright smile. "Hokage-sama, I'm back. Everything went well, and I'm ready to resume my duties."

Kakashi looked up from his paperwork, the weariness of the previous days lifting from his shoulders. But the thought of her smiles were caused by another is eating him alive. "Welcome back, Sakura." he murmured through gritted teeth.

Sakura, sensing the subtle shift in Kakashi's demeanor, approached his desk with a thoughtful expression. "Is everything okay, Hokage-sama? You seem... different."

Kakashi sighed, his grey eyes meeting hers. "It's nothing, Sakura. Just adjusting to the office without you. It was quieter than usual."

Sakura studied him for a moment, a hint of concern in her eyes. "If there's anything on your mind, Kakashi-sama, I'm here to listen. We've always had open communication, right?"

Kakashi nodded appreciatively. "You're right, Sakura. I appreciate your offer. It's just... personal reflections. Let's get back to work. We have a lot to catch up on."

"Oh, okay." Sakura murmured before she left the office. But a few minutes later, she came back with a cup of tea.

Kakashi looked up at her with questioning gaze.

"I know it's not your usual tea time, Hokage-sama. But it looks like you need it." Sakura reasoned. "I'll have the mission reports filed."

Kakashi regarded Sakura with a mixture of surprise and gratitude. He accepted the cup of tea with a small smile, appreciating the thoughtful gesture. "Thank you, Sakura. I could use a break, and this is a welcome surprise."

Sakura nodded, her expression gentle. "Take your time, Hokage-sama. If there's anything you want to talk about or if you need assistance with anything, I'm here."

Kakashi took a sip of the tea, savoring its warmth. As he watched Sakura leave the office, a sense of gratitude washed over him. The unspoken understanding between them, the genuine care she exhibited—it was a testament to the depth of their connection. But he can't help but brood, as he understands that the bliss he is feeling will not last. Sooner than later, she'll be taken away from him.

And he doesn't want that.