B is for Boys

XXX

Rukia laid on top of the Kurosakis' roof, staring at the stars above. The night was beautiful. The full moon glistened in the sky as its light kissing every little detail of the town in shadows. This night was like the first one that greeted her when she arrived in Karakura Town. Memories surfaced all around her as she remembered that fateful night. Her life changed so dramatically all because of Ichigo.

This always happened during the full moon. Rukia became pensive about everything in her life, especially her boys, or rather the men who defined her life. They helped shape her into the woman she became - a clan leader, a captain of the Gotei Thirteen Court Guard Squad.

The first man in her life, Renji, she met when he was a young boy running around the Rukongai. He was her oldest friend, even if they had a 50-year turbulent period. Ichigo was the glue that fixed them though. He knocked some sense into Renji, and then the two old friends spoke their peace and apologized to one another. They discussed their changes over the years and how their isolation and need to grow stronger helped shape them into the fighters that they were today. Now, the comrades frequently train together and talk often about work or everyday life - Renji was her second closes confidant next to Ichigo. Their relationship was back like it used to be when they were little - minus stealing the food…well that was unless Renji was drunk then all bets were off, but Rukia could live with that if it was his worst quirk. Besides, Renji had Tatsuki to keep him in line after all.

A sad smile crept upon on Rukia's face as she thought about the next man who changed her. Kaien would always hold a special place in her heart no matter what. He was the man who helped her become a better soul reaper, the man who didn't give up on her or treat her differently because she was a Kuchiki. He meant so much to her. It was because of him that she met Ichigo, and partially why she pushed Ichigo so hard in the beginning. Kaien had faith in her when others did not, and he helped her grow as a fighter. He would always be with her because she carried his heart everywhere. His memory was a precious dream that Rukia kept close to her own heart. She always strove to make him proud and to find a love like his and Miyako's. Little did she know, Rukia would marry Kaien's cousin, and they name their little boy after him.

Speaking of family, Byakuya's face crossed Rukia's mind when she thought of undying love. Even after 75 years, the man still loved his dead wife, but he remembered her with more fondness now that he was fully able to honor her last wish. According to everyone once Hisana died, Byakuya turned into the Ice King of Emotions. He controlled them so well; yet, they eventually broke through his many barriers once again thanks to Ichigo's stubbornness and determination. Upon their battle, Byakuaya realized his folly by not treating his sister well; although, Rukia sought his approval and recognition no matter what. After his fight with Ichigo, Byakuya opened up to Rukia. She became his pride, and he remained her idol. Their relationship became a perfect brother and sisterly bond.q

A smile graced Rukia's lips as she thought about their brightest moment. It was during the Quincy War when she fought As Nodt. Byakuya finally recognized how powerful she had become. Their "splendid bankai" moment will forever be engraved on her heart.

Finally, she saved the best for last – Ichigo. He always said that she changed him, but in all honesty, he changed her just as much. They pushed each other to become better, fighting side by side taking on any new adversary. It wasn't until after Ichigo lost his powers that the two of them realized how much they meant to one another. Rukia made secret trips to check on him every now again during those two years. But once they were reunited, he asked her out. Then shortly afterwards, the Quincy War broke out, nearly killing everyone. Then, pieces of Ichigo's past came to light, but she didn't care. He would always be Ichigo to her, and she would help him even if it killed her.

Once the war was won, Ichigo was forced to stay in the Soul Society due to his spiritual pressure until Kisuke could fix a gigai for him to visit. During his stay, Ichigo became her vice-captain. They worked together running Division 13 and supervising the soul reapers in the world of the living.

"Hey, Midget, I was wondering where you went off to." Ichigo's voice disturbed Rukia's thoughts. "What are you doing out here?" He asked as he took a seat beside her.

"Reminiscing…" Rukia replied with a smile.