No shadow to step out from
Each time he saw them together, he would wonder.
Rukia's laughter when that ryoka girl splashed her in the pool – yes, he kept the godforsaken pool after the Shinigami Women's Society rebuilt it in his garden, though it was for Rukia's benefit… and hers –, her giggles when the two girls braided each other's hair in their shared room, their whispers under the covers of their quilts as they lay on the futons at night…
but he could not picture it.
Even now as he woke to find himself, fever broken, he could not imagine it. And as he turned on his side, he was greeted by a common sight that was no longer unfamiliar to him – a violet being cradled by a tiger lily.
Orihime was holding a wet cloth, no doubt to place on his forehead after the usefulness of the one on his head expired. Her head was resting gently against Rukia's. Their bowed heads and clasped hands reminded Byakuya of two birds – sister-like – as he noted that Rukia's hand was holding one of his.
He could not – and did not wish to – repress the softening of his eyes nor the smile that he gave both of the women who have a such strong hold on his heart. Even when nostalgia clouded him now, he had to finally submit…
he could not picture Hisana in Orihime's position doing the same things with Rukia.
A/N Hoi, hoi! Please review! Yes, the little purple button just below.
I do not own Bleach.