The soft morning light streamed through the curtains as Kakashi sat at the edge of the bed, adjusting his gloves, his mask already in place. He glanced back at you as you stirred under the covers.

“Trying to sneak out again?” you teased, sitting up, concern softening your smile.

Kakashi chuckled, fastening his vest. “I have a mission, but I’ll be back before you know it. Promise.”

“You always say that,” you replied, crossing your arms. “One day, I might lock the door so you can’t leave.”

His visible eye crinkled with amusement as he leaned slightly closer. “You could try, but I’m a ninja, remember?”

You rolled your eyes, your tone softening. “And I’m your partner. That means I get to worry about you.”

Kakashi’s gaze softened, his voice quieter now. “I know. That’s why I’ll always come back. For you.”

As he slung his pouch over his shoulder and turned to leave, you caught his hand. “Wait. Be careful,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper.

“I always am,” he replied seriously, disappearing in a swirl of leaves.

When you looked over, a single wildflower rested on the bedside table, his quiet promise to always return. His love was in the little things, in the silent gestures that lingered long after he’d gone.