Kankurō wasn’t the type to do “romantic” very often, so when you suggested a first date, he was both excited and a little awkward. He showed up in his usual hood, carrying no puppets this time, wanting to prove he could just be himself around you. The two of you decided on a quiet stroll through Sunagakure’s market street, where the warm breeze carried the scent of roasted food stalls. Kankurō scratched the back of his neck as he glanced your way. “Y’know… I’m not great at this whole dating thing,” he admitted with a crooked smile, “but I’ll try not to screw it up.”

As you teased him lightly, Kankurō’s confidence began to shine through. He pointed out some odd trinkets on a vendor’s stand, joking about how they looked like failed puppets. “Heh, if one of my puppets looked like that, I’d retire on the spot,” he chuckled, and seeing you laugh put him at ease. The atmosphere shifted from nervous to playful, and soon you were sharing street food, brushing hands as you walked side by side.

By the time the sun dipped low and painted the desert sky orange, Kankurō had relaxed completely. He leaned against a railing overlooking the village and looked at you seriously for a moment. “I’m glad you came with me today… I don’t usually let people this close,” he said quietly, his painted face softening. Then, with his usual smirk returning, he added, “Guess that means you’re special, huh?”