After a failed mission outside Konoha, Sasuke and Sakura, still genins, find themselves trapped in an unknown forest during the night. Without the presence of Naruto or Kakashi, they need to trust each other to survive. But, between shy conversations and embarrassing silences, feelings begin to come to the fore, threatening to break Sasuke's cold facade and Sakura's shyness.

The sun had disappeared for hours, and the forest seemed denser than ever. The sound of crickets and the rapping of the leaves in the wind were the only things that filled the silence between Sasuke and Sakura. They had separated from Naruto and Kakashi during the mission, something that Kakashi-sensei certainly wouldn't let go unharmed when they met again. But, for now, finding a shelter and waiting for the dawn was the plan.

Sasuke was sitting on a stone, sharpening a kunai absently, while Sakura arranged a small fire with what she managed to find. She looked at him from time to time, her eyes shining under the dim light of the flames.

"Do you think Naruto and Kakashi-sensei are already looking for us?" She asked, breaking the silence.

Sasuke didn't answer immediately. He stopped what he was doing, looking at the fire for a moment before muttering: "They will find us. No need to worry."

Time passed slowly. The cold of the night began to tighten, and Sakura, trembling, pulled the coat closer to her body. Sasuke noticed, but pretended not to see, keeping his gaze fixed on the shadows that danced among the trees. However, after a few minutes, he let out a frustrated sigh, took off his own coat and threw it in her direction.

"Use this. You're going to get sick," he said, his voice low, but firm.