Kakashi's Unexpected Love

Comfort Him

A Visit to the Flower Shop

After being discharged from the hospital, Kakashi made his way through the familiar streets of Konoha, hands tucked into his pockets. It wasn't often he found himself willingly visiting people outside of missions, but something about today felt... different.

Stopping outside the Yamanaka Flower Shop, he peeked in through the window, spotting a familiar blonde arranging a bouquet behind the counter.

Perfect timing.

With a lazy smile, he strolled inside.

The gentle chime of the shop bell rang as Ino finished arranging a bouquet of white lilies. She turned to see a familiar silver-haired man leaning casually against the doorway.

"Hey, Ino-chan."

Ino glanced up, arching a delicate brow. "Hey, Kakashi. Good to see you've fully recovered. But why are you here? Looking to buy some flowers?"

"Am I only allowed to visit when I need something?" Kakashi placed a hand over his chest, feigning hurt. "Ouch, that wounds me, Ino-chan. Didn't miss me at all?"

Ino smirked, rolling her eyes. "Please. You act like we're attached at the hip."

Kakashi chuckled, leaning against the counter. "Actually, I just missed my best girl friend. That's all."

Ino snorted. "Ugh, that sounds so weird. Say it differently."

"But it's true."

"Still weird."

Kakashi shrugged, clearly amused.

Then, her tone softened. "But seriously, don't you have missions?"

"Yeah, that's why I'm here, hehe." He rubbed the back of his head, giving a nervous chuckle.

Ino's smile wavered slightly, sensing something behind his words. "What's up?"

"With the new Hokage, things will be busy. So, I might not be around the village for a while," he admitted.

Ino nodded. "Okay, thanks for letting me know. I'd have been a worried mess otherwise."

Kakashi tilted his head. "Worried about me? Why?"

She sighed dramatically. "Because I care about you, you dummy. We're best friends now, after all. And didn't you notice I waited for you at your bedside every day while you were in your sweet little coma?"

Kakashi scratched his head. "Oh, right..."

"Just be safe, and remember, I'll be waiting for your return."

Kakashi smiled behind his mask. "I will, Kaa-san."

Ino's eye twitched. "I swear to the gods, Kakashi—"Ino smacked his arm. "I am NOT your mom!"

Kakashi just laughed, dodging her next playful swat before heading out.

A few weeks passed.

It was late. The streets of Konoha were quiet, the village tucked into the hush of the night.

Kakashi hesitated in front of Ino's house, rubbing the back of his neck. He had knocked before he could even think through why he was here.

The door creaked open. Ino stood there, dressed in comfortable nightwear, eyes widening in surprise. "Kakashi? What happened? What are you doing here? It's late."

He shifted awkwardly. "Can I come in?"

Ino studied him for a second before sighing. "Yeah, yeah, get in here. My parents aren't home until tomorrow afternoon, so don't worry about sneaking around like a lost puppy."