Word Count: 376
Disclaimer: Uhm, sadly, I'm not Japanese. Nor am I Noriaki Kubo (whose pen name is Tite Kubo).
Minor angst, minor romance.
Expecting the Unexpected
She applied her lip gloss, tied up her hair. She was wearing the prettiest kimono she could find.
She was seizing the moment; taking the chance. She had given an immediate yes when he had asked her out the day prior, and very nearly rejoiced at the unexpected question.
Unaware
He had never put much thought in it. They were friends, she was sad -- what more is there? And, as friends, he wanted to try making her happy again.
So it was sort of a surprise to see her all dressed up, her face eager with anticipation for the following evening.
Bad Habits
Their first 'date' consisted of going together to the summer festival. Rukia was more than capable of taking care of Karakura Town for one night.
But one night became two, and two became three.
It was a bad habit of his. By being able to make his friends happy, he was able to make himself happy. Even if it meant lying to them.
He hadn't meant to lead Inoue on. Really, he hadn't. Because in his heart, he already had someone important; only one. Someone…
Guilty Conscience
He worried about her. How was she doing? Was she safe? He could never fully forget her for a second.
"Kurosaki-kun?" He looked up.
"Oh, sorry, Inoue. I had something on my mind. What were you saying?"
"I was asking if you wanted to come in for some tea. Or how about something to eat? I could make us some --"
He cut her off. "Sorry, but I should go check on Rukia. I'll call you later."
He was sure his guilty conscience bled into his voice, but nevertheless, he kissed her on the cheek, before turning and running off.
Routines
It had become a routine for them. They would go on their date -- to the amusement park, or movies; sometimes just a simple dinner -- and he would walk her home.
She would invite him in, and he would decline.
There was always someone else he had to see; someone else he had to check on.
Kiss and Leave
Kiss and leave, kiss and leave. It was always like this. He was never hers to begin with -- he never would be.
A/N: Sorry, this is rather short. It's just something I came up with whilst dawdling in Math class. I don't think it turned out too bad, but still, constructed criticism is greatly appreciated.
Oh, and yes. The person that Ichigo kept running off to see was, indeed, Rukia.