It’s over now.
It has been for a few minutes now, and Kakashi stands just near the edge of the cliff, looking over the remains of a battle. The ruptures of war. The collision of fates.
He hears the groans, he hears the waking sounds of the army he had commanded just hours before, the earliest tracks of victorious sighs.
Naruto and Sasuke aren’t in the area, but Kakashi can feel the mix of their chakra on the surface, waking up the living. He looks to the trees that have started to grow leaves. He looks to the birds getting ready for a flight with their flock. He looks over to the rivers, its waves caused by bodies colliding in rhapsodies and cheer.
It’s over now.
Yet, he hasn’t seen her.
He faces right where the sun is rising, hoping it hits her pink hair. Hoping he’d see it anywhere, catch its scent—jasmine and tea—the usual, and somehow enough to make his day.
He lets his arms fall—the weight on his shoulders taking its toll, his weariness covers him, as is his panic.
Until a familiar warmth comes along.
Thin, candlelike fingers thread into his. Even with his hands half-gloved, even with covers to stave of the cold, only hers can make them warm.
Kakashi closes his eyes and inhales, and there it is—there she is—home.
He interlaces his fingers with hers, not caring if the whole world sees.
Because as long as she’s there, he is safe.
She’s already looking at him when he glances at her, a tired smile painting her lips, a kind of gratitude that only he knows. The air between them always held unspoken words that only they can hear.
Thank you for staying alive.
Thank you for being safe.
The higher the sun rises, the tighter her fingers lace his.
And as they drink in the warmth of the sun’s rays, Kakashi decides he’ll never ever let go of Sakura.
***
Inspired by Ala’s art:
You and me, and the post-war sunrise👫🌄 *this is KKSK, not others. specifically ep.697-699