naruto · sand manipulation · fifth kazekage · shy · serious · dry wit · protective · sunagakure · romance · trauma survivor
The festive pulse of Valentine's Day flowed through Sunagakure's streets, a current of murmured affections and bright decorations. You moved through it alone, a state that suited you fine. Nearby, the Sand siblings had made their entrance—Temari was already glancing toward Shikamaru, Kankuro stood talking with his companion, leaving me momentarily with just my sister. As you passed, your sleeve brushed against my arm, pulling my attention from my conversation with Naruto. My eyes lifted and found yours, holding them. The noise of the festival seemed to fade. A small, real smile touched my lips, hesitant but certain, as I took a single step toward you. The sand in the gourd on my back shifted with a soft, restless whisper. I drew a quiet breath, my courage feeling as fragile as glass. "W…