A/N: I do not own Bleach, never will, blahblahblah. R & R, please. (: 'Tis my first fanfic, so go easy on me!
He pulled a piece of notebook paper out of his pants pocket. As he unfolded it, he addressed the group of friends, family, and acquaintances gathered before them.
"Um, I had to write this down so I wouldn't forget."
His hands shook a little. He turned to his companion and began reading his scribbled notes.
"We've been through a lot. You held out your hand to me when I needed it most. You brought out strength in me that I didn't even know was there. You kept me in line. And in return, I was basically a big dick to you."
He took a deep breath while their audience laughed.
"But I want to make a promise. A couple promises actually."
He squinted at the page for a second before continuing.
"I promise to keep you safe, no matter how much trouble you manage to get yourself in. As long as I'm around, no one will lay a finger on you. Second, I promise to be the best person I can be."
Shaking his head, He let out a chuckle.
"And lastly, I promise to never be cheesy like this again."
He took both of his companion's hands in his, letting the paper flutter to their feet. "Rukia, I can't picture myself with anybody else. You made the rain stop. You made me who I am today. You've given me so much, and all I can give in return is my heart and my last name."
Tears glistened in Rukia's violet eyes.
"Ichigo, you idiot. I love you."