Set after episode 17.
Disclaimer: Nothing
-The Only Reason-
The only reason Byakuya Kuchiki was happy was because he won.
After Renji Abarai and Byakuya Kuchiki had delivered the fugitive, one Rukia Kuchiki, they reported the completion of their mission, waited to be debriefed, and were dismissed.
The paperwork on the captain's desk, in the sixth division began to pile up and despite the late hour when they returned to Seireitei, the men found themselves back at headquarters. Renji obediently followed his captain, even though he was bleeding and waited to be scolded for his failure.
''Captain…I-''
''Renji, Don't.''
Renji had bowed his head, to his captain's back, but upon hearing those particular words, his closed eyes blinked open and widened drastically.
''But Captain-'' He protested, another error that went un-reprimanded.
''Renji, I said don't. I forgive your mistakes and I will not punish you for them.''
The lieutenant hesitantly raised his head and faced his captain's stoic visage and stern words.
''Thank you, Captain Kuchiki.''
Byakuya nodded but he had yet to dismiss his lieutenant. His quiet feet led him to step in closer to Renji, as he seemingly inspected the head wound, which had fractured his glasses and pierced the tattooed flesh. He lifted a hand, in a swift motion but it did not rise up to his forehead but rather, it lingered upon the male's bloodied chin.
''The color red suits you, Renji…''
Unwillingly, the same color, which his captain was apparently fond of, stained his cheeks more than they already were.
Then, for the first time, ever…Renji's red eyes witnessed Byakuya smiling.
The captain leaned forward and stained his lips, just like his fingertips, in Renji's blood. The lieutenant did not flinch when the warm kiss was pressed to his mouth, he complied, and his blush burned his face.
''Go have your wounds dressed…I'll be waiting.'' Byakuya murmured the command and immediately, his lieutenant disappeared, strictly following orders.
Renji dashed quickly, to the fourth squad's headquarters, as he contemplated his captain's smile. As beautiful as it was to see the man openly express his joy, Renji knew that he was not the cause of it. Byakuya was only smiling because he had brought his sister home.
Someday, he wished to make his captain smile…
He wanted to be the reason why Byakuya was happy.
-EndE-