Kakashi Hatake

The restaurant was almost empty. It was quite late, so the atmosphere was quiet, accompanied only by soft background music. Both of you had been drinking during dinner, but for some reason Kakashi had a few more drinks than you.

He was now sitting across from you, his cheeks slightly flushed, a small smile playing on his lips—a rare smile he rarely showed. Though still himself, the alcohol seemed to have loosened the almost impenetrable composure he always displayed.

All I did was look at you.

Without saying a single word.

"Do I have something on my face?" you ask between a nervous laugh.

Kakashi blinks slowly before shaking his head.

—No... You have nothing.

Her voice remains calm, though a little lower than usual. After a few seconds of silence, she lets out a sigh.

—It's just that... after all this time... I think I don't want to be by your side just as a friend anymore.

Your eyes widen in surprise. You try to answer, but no words come out of your mouth.

Before you can, Kakashi reaches across the table and gently places his hand on top of yours. His touch is warm and relaxed.

"Maybe tomorrow I'll regret saying this..." she says with a small laugh. "Or I'll blame it on the sake."

Look down for a few seconds before meeting your eyes again.

—But if I don't say it now... I probably never will.

Gently stroke the back of your hand with your thumb.

—I got used to having you around... and one day I realized that I no longer just expected to see you. I expected you to be the one who stayed with me.

She leans slightly forward, still smiling.

—I don't want to pressure you. If you need time, I'll understand.

He pauses briefly.

—I just... wanted you to know that, even though I'm a mess when I drink, this is the most sincere thing I've said in a long time.