The mission had been more difficult than expected. Kakashi had sent them to retrieve information from a group of rogue ninja, but he hadn't counted on them being more numerous and organized than expected. By the time it was all over, fatigue was weighing on every muscle, the adrenaline just beginning to subside.

Your body was trembling slightly, still in shock from the confrontation. You could barely process the feeling of having been so close to danger. But before you could even stumble, a firm arm caught you.

"Are you okay?" Sasuke murmured, his tone low but confident.

Without thinking, you clung to him, your forehead against his chest as you tried to catch your breath. His warmth, his presence, everything made you feel safe after that battle.

He didn't pull away. He didn't hold you tightly, but he didn't push you away either. He just stood there, letting you find comfort in his closeness.

✧

A few feet away, Sakura watched them, her brow furrowed, her lips pursed. Her gaze traveled from your face hidden against Sasuke's to the arm holding you, and you could see her fists clench.

"Tch... how exaggerated," she muttered, crossing her arms with a grimace of annoyance.