They're fighting Hollows, just the two of them. Rukia's handling herself well – she always has – while Ichigo lags just slightly behind. It frustrates him, that. How she's always been the one to put him back on his feet, pull him out of his darkest moments. Yet, at the same time it comforts him, because he knows she'll always be there. It's what he counts on, with her, along with the kicks and punches and the intense, knowing looks she gives him, the ones that make her violet eyes scorch and burn brightly.
Inside the little shinigami is a true fighter. Rukia Kuchiki fights with grace and, though her skill with the sword isn't as good as most, she knows how to use things to her advantage. After all, she was the first to kill an Espada, and the woman knows how to use kido unlike any other. Somewhere deep inside, Ichigo thinks, he admires her.
And maybe – just maybe – there's something else.
There's a moment when Ichigo panics, though. The Hollow is raising its arm, ready to strike and oh god what if she doesn't sense it or see it and she gets hurt? Ichigo's brain plays in slow motion. For a second – less than a second, really – the claws of the Hollow graze her back, and Rukia lets out a soft grunt. Then, she smoothly spins in a circle and blocks the second attack. Ichigo lets out a breath and covers his internal panic by slaying another monster. He doesn't see it, but Rukia's giving him this look (or maybe he doesn't want to see the disappointment that is surely present in her eyes).
They finish, and Rukia walks over to Ichigo (more like glides, her movements are so smooth and fluid) and gently touches his arm. Their eyes do the talking.
Are you okay? Are you hurt? What's wrong? Will you tell me, even if I ask?
No, Ichigo's eyes say, I won't. Because I need to be strong. I need to protect. If I don't have that, then what else is there? I won't let this get to me. I won't let doubt screw things up. I swear.
Rukia nods, and that's all there is.