Six months later...

"Hello, sweetheart." Kakashi popped out in Sakura's hospital office and smiled at her. "Do you want to grab some lunch?"

Normally, Kakashi wouldn't just appear inside her office. But he really missed the lady and the workload inside the Hokage Tower is not helping him. He needed reprieve from all of the headaches that he is experiencing.

Sakura looked up from her work, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Sure, Kakashi. I could use a break," Sakura replied, setting aside her paperwork. She couldn't deny the positive changes she witnessed in Kakashi—the genuine effort he put into being present, supporting her, and addressing the issues that once drove them apart.

Sakura stood up and walked straight to Kakashi's arms. "I missed you, Kakashi." she murmured.

She can feel him stiffen under her touch, but she now knows that it wasn't because of any negative things in her mind, but because Kakashi had been used to minimal physical contact between them. She would occasionally lean against his form but never in a way that her whole body is pressed against him. This is a new territory between them.

Kakashi relaxed after a moment, wrapping his arms around Sakura. "I missed you too, Sakura," he admitted, his voice filled with sincerity. The journey of rebuilding their relationship had been a gradual one, marked by open communication, trust, and mutual understanding.

As they walked out of the office together, Kakashi felt a sense of contentment and gratitude. He appreciated the opportunity to be a part of Sakura's life again, and he cherished the moments they shared.

Over lunch, they engaged in light conversation, discussing village affairs, recent missions, and the changes in their lives.

"Sakura," Kakashi called her name and placed his hand over hers. "I don't know what you will say about what I'm going to ask, but I promised you honesty."

Sakura looked at Kakashi with a curious expression, waiting for him to continue.

Kakashi took a deep breath, his gaze steady. "I know it's still early in our journey of rebuilding, and I don't want to rush things. But I can't help thinking about our future together. Sakura, what do you say about us living together?"

Sakura looked at Kakashi, her expression thoughtful. The suggestion of living together was a significant step, and she took a moment to process it. "Why do you want to move in together?"

Kakashi looked into Sakura's eyes, his sincerity evident. "I want to be there for you every day, to support you and share our lives. I've realized that I don't want to miss a single moment with you. Living together is a commitment, and I want to make a commitment to you, Sakura. If you're comfortable with it, of course."

Sakura took a moment to absorb Kakashi's words. The idea of living together was a big step, and she appreciated the honesty and openness in his approach. After a thoughtful pause, she smiled.

"I think it's a good idea, Kakashi," Sakura said. "But I want to make it clear that we are not going to sleep together. I don't think I can do that yet."

Kakashi nodded, understanding Sakura's boundaries. "I respect that, Sakura. We'll take things at your pace. I just want to be there for you, every step of the way."

Sakura's smile widened, appreciating Kakashi's understanding. "Thank you, Kakashi. Let's give it a try."

"I thought, you would be living at the Hokage's quarters." Sakura commented as she took in the whole place. "But I think I love your place more than the mansion."

Kakashi, who's mask is pooling around his neck, smiled. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "I admit that the Hokage mansion is a beautiful place. But I want us to live in my family's home." Kakashi explained.

Sakura smiled at Kakashi's choice, appreciating the personal touch it added to their living arrangement. As they settled into their shared life, both of them knew that the journey of healing and rebuilding wasn't over. It was an ongoing process, and they were committed to facing it together.

"Well, Sakura, where do you want to sleep? Do you want a room of your own or be with me in my room?" Kakashi asked her. "Of course, if you chose to be with me, it will be our room. And of course, as of this moment, this place is our home."

Sakura chuckled at Kakashi's words, feeling a warmth in her chest. "I think I'd like to be with you in our room," she said, emphasizing the word 'our' with a smile.

Kakashi grinned, his eye crinkling at the corners. "Our room it is, then. Let me show you around."

As they explored the house together, Kakashi shared stories about his family, pointing out old photo albums and cherished belongings. Sakura listened attentively, feeling a deeper connection forming between them. The house, filled with memories and history, became a symbol of their shared journey.

When they lived together under one roof, Sakura and Kakashi learned more about their partner. Sakura learned about the quirks that Kakashi has, and Kakashi, in turn, learned about how much of an organizer Sakura is.

When they settled for the night for the first time. Sakura can't help but raise her eyebrows as she took in the sight of his shuriken-imprinted bedsheets, pillowcase, and blankets.

"Kakashi, shuriken covers?" she asked.

Kakashi chuckled, scratching his head. "Ah, well, it's a ninja thing, I suppose. I thought it would be fitting for a ninja's bedroom."

Sakura laughed, shaking her head. "You never fail to surprise me, Kakashi. Shuriken bedsheets, who would have thought?"

He grinned, pulling her into a light embrace. "Glad I could keep you entertained. But hey, we can always change them if they're not to your liking."

Sakura smiled, realizing that these small quirks were part of what made Kakashi who he was. "No, it's fine. It's unique, just like you. I'll get used to it."

She sat on the edge of the bed as Kakashi change into his pajamas and she can't stop the laughter bubbling inside her as she took in his puppy imprinted pajamas.

Kakashi raised an eyebrow, noticing Sakura's amusement. "What's so funny?" he asked, a playful glint in his eyes.

Sakura tried to stifle her laughter, pointing at his pajamas. "Puppies, Kakashi? Now I know why you never let us within 5 meters of your house."

Kakashi chuckled, looking down at his puppy-patterned pajamas. "Well, I didn't think you'd find out so soon. I have a reputation to maintain, you know."

Sakura burst into laughter again, unable to contain herself. "The great Hatake Kakashi, renowned ninja, with a weakness for shuriken bedsheets and puppy pajamas. Who would have thought?"

He grinned, joining in her laughter. "I never said I was perfect. Besides, comfort is key, even for a ninja."

"I think every missing nin will have a field day once they realize your eccentricities."

Kakashi chuckled, embracing the humor in the situation. "Well, let them. It's about time the mysterious Hatake Kakashi is seen in a different light. Puppies and shurikens aside, they can't deny my ninja skills."

Sakura laughed, shaking her head. "True, Kakashi. Your skills are unmatched, even if your choice of pajamas is questionable."

He smirked, pulling her into a playful hug. "I like to keep things interesting. Besides, it's all part of the charm."

Coughing to stop her laughter, Sakura looked at Kakashi with curiosity. "Why though?" she asked. "I mean, I can understand the shuriken, you're aim is so well but puppies? That's so childish!"

Kakashi scratched his head, "Well, my dad used to buy me the shuriken patterned sheets. When he died, I clung to his memory so tight that I cannot part with my beddings. I only added to the collection. I hated my father for a while, but I cannot let go of his memory. And the pajamas, well, they're comfortable and they remind me of the days before I become an academy student. Those were the happy days."

Sakura's expression softened as she listened to Kakashi's explanation. The revelation of the sentimental value behind his choice of beddings and pajamas gave her a glimpse into the layers of his past, the struggles he faced, and the cherished memories he held onto. Now, she felt bad for laughing.

"I had no idea, Kakashi," she said, her voice gentle. "I'm sorry for misunderstanding and for laughing. It makes sense now, and I appreciate you sharing that with me."

Kakashi gave a small nod, appreciating Sakura's understanding. "I've always been guarded about these things. But now, with you, I feel like I can open up more."

Sakura smiled, grateful for the trust he placed in her. "I'm glad you're comfortable sharing these parts of yourself with me. It means a lot, Kakashi."

As they settled into their shared life, Sakura realized that every item in their home, with its quirks and stories, became a thread connecting them both to the past, the present, and the future they were building together. The journey of healing and rebuilding their relationship continued, and the small, seemingly trivial details only added to the richness of their shared story.