Chapter 3

Orihime got herself on her feet when Yoruichi entered the room, they both walked off into a separate room for some privacy from the men.

Ichigo watched as Orihime was lead away from him, the feeling off uncertainty was disturbing to him… why does he feel this 'urge' to protect her?… Even more now she doesn't have any idea who any of us we are…

There was no conversation between Ichigo and Urahara for a while - they just stood there in silence until Urahara decided to tell Ichigo something that he had been putting off for a while ~

"So Kurosaki… Inoue's still pretty confused with everything huh? … but she seems relaxed in your company"

"What you getting at Urahara?"

"Well… It has been decided that Inoue will be staying at your house until she is in good enough health to return to her home" Urahara raised his fan as he started to exit the room but unable to do so as Ichigo grabbed his sleeve in a hurry.

"WHAT THE HELL! SHE CANT STAY AT MY HOUSE!? - SHE DOESN'T EVEN KNOW WHO I AM OR WHAT MY FAMILY IS LIKE!?!"

"Oh come on son!! A woman around the house is just what we need!"

"DDDDAD!! WHERE THE HELL DID YOU COME FROM! - HOW DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THIS.. HOW DO YOU KNOW ABOUT INOUE??!!"

Urahara explained to Ichigo that he discussed everything essential to Isshin Kurosaki and as Inoue now has a severe medical problem, it would be best to stay with the Kurosaki family as she could receive treatment in-house.

After much discussion between the 3 men, they all agreed it was the best thing to do for Inoue - she is to stay with the Kurosaki's family from tonight onwards…

The timing couldn't be any better as Inoue re-entered the room wearing a black wool dress and boots while Yoruichi followed behind her. They walked in on the 3 men all standing there now looking at the 2 women. Isshin stepped forward and introduced himself to Inoue while Ichigo looked on… This is going to be one hell of a night!

Urahara decided it was best that Inoue didn't see the rest of her 'friends' today as she had concentrate on building a 'bond' between her and Ichigo - the idea was to introduce her friends one at a time, when the time was right.

Isshin already had a bag at his house which contained necessities for Inoue's stay, (with thanks to Taksuki!) so everything was ready for when they returned. She would be staying in the front room on a sofa bed until more of a permanent bed can be placed if her condition does not improve.

Inoue was informed of her stay at the Kurosaki's house by Yoruichi while they were getting her changed into 'appropriate' clothing.

She waved goodbye to Urahara and Yoruichi, as Isshin, Ichigo and Inoue exited the room. It was dark outside and only the street lights were illuminating there path to home. The wool dress wasn't exactly keeping her warm as winter was drawing in and the wind was picking up.

Inoue ran up to Ichigo and grabbed his left arm and hugged her's around it to form a arm-lock, her head rested against his shoulder as they walked together, although Ichigo jumped at the initial confrontation, he relaxed when he saw her peaceful face.

Isshin looked out of the corner of his eye with a slight smirk now forming on his face, watching his son grow up into a man was something him and Masaki would be proud of.. and now he is willing to put his life on hold to support Inoue.

Hope you've enjoyed the 3rd chapter and don't forget to review! Thanks x