Back in Konoha, Naruto lay in a hospital bed, watching Sakura pace.
"You almost said something," he said gently.
She stopped.
Her back to him, shoulders trembling.
"I did," she whispered.
He sat up despite the pain. "Say it."
She turned, tears in her eyes, voice breaking.
"I love you, Naruto. I've loved you longer than I was brave enough to admit."
His breath hitched.
She braced herself for rejection—for hesitation.
Instead, Naruto stood, crossed the room, and pulled her into his arms.
"I've been in love with you for years," he said hoarsely. "I was just afraid you'd never see me the same way."
She laughed through tears. "You idiot."
He smiled, forehead resting against hers. "Your idiot."
Their lips met—not rushed, not desperate—just right.
Outside, cherry blossoms fell.
And somewhere in the shadows, the enemy watched… smiling.