The next time they saw Kakashi Hatake was during a break after one of Team 7's regular training sessions.
The silver-haired jonin, usually known for his lazy demeanor, tardiness, and fondness for dirty books, seemed a little different that day.
Instead of leaning against a tree trunk reading a dirty book as usual, he stood at the edge of the training ground with his hands behind his back, gazing at Kage Rock in the distance.
His mask still covered his face, leaving only one eye visible, curved into a crescent. Yet something about him radiated an inexplicable air of contentment and high spirits. Even his perpetually unruly silver hair seemed a little more manageable.
"Kakashi-sensei, you seem... a little different today?"
Sakura keenly noticed the change and asked out of curiosity.
Naruto sat on the ground drinking water after their regular training, while Sasuke leaned against a tree with his arms folded, resting with his eyes closed. His ears twitched slightly, though.
At her question, Kakashi turned around, the smile in his visible eye deepening.
I've been waiting for you to ask.
He cleared his throat and spoke in a deliberately casual tone.
"Oh, I should let you know. Hanare and I are getting married next month."
Naruto knew it was only a matter of time and wasn't surprised.
Sakura's green eyes instantly widened, her mouth forming an O as disbelief spread across her face.
Even Sasuke, who had been resting with his eyes closed, abruptly opened them, a flicker of astonishment crossing his dark eyes.
So fast!
That was the first thought that popped into Sakura's head. As far as she knew, Kakashi-sensei and Hanare, who had joined Konoha, had known each other for... less than a month, even counting generously, right?
How were they suddenly getting married?!
*This