Another large time leap. I just couldn't think of anything else.

It was three months into the new year. Flowers were blooming, the morning dew didn't freeze, and the sun was warm enough to fall asleep in again. And Shunsui was determined to take advantage of all of this.

He had his straw hat pulled low over his face, lounging comfortably under a blooming cherry tree. It was his third resting spot of the day. The first two he had been chased from by Nanao trying to get him to work. She really did need to learn how to relax and enjoy the beauty around her.

The thoughts seemed to summon her for he sense her coming up to him. Having become tired of her kicking his hat off, though she'd only done that once, he lifted it as she stopped at his feet. "Good afternoon Nanao-chan." He greeted with a smile.

"Sir, we go through this come every spring. I'd wish you'd ne at least a bit more serious this year." She lectured coldly, proving sometimes spring did not melt everything. The gaze of her eyes told him she wanted an answer. Now.

He sat up on his arm, picking up a handful of petals. "I am Nanao." He nodded wisely. "Enjoying life is something very important."

She sniffed, "Seeing as some would see us as dead that's rather missing the point. And-" She stopped as he tossed the flower petals onto her head as he stood. "Sir1 What childish nonsense are you pulling now? It did not blind me if that's what you wish."

He grinned. "You seem to uptight. Maybe pulling such a childish act would cheer you up." And indeed, a small smile was pulling at her lips. That pleased him. "Ah! I was right! Dear Nanao is melting her cold shell to reveal the passion filled woman within!"

The had that had been reaching for hers got swatted by the file of reports in her other hand before said papers were dumped on his head, the papers spilled out onto him. "Get those done captain." She scowled, turning to leave.

"On one condition." He grinned at the idea coming to him. She stopped and he nearly gave it away by laughing. "If I get it all done today, you had to take the day off tomorrow and spend it with me."

She turned, pushing up her glasses, "There's over fifty reports there. There is no way that will happen." She responded.

"Does that mean you'll accept the deal?"

She thought for a second before, "Yes."

Nanao stared down at the collection of photos on the table in front of her. Sometimes the Shinigami's Women Association did not seem worth her time. Particularly when they couldn't reach the deadline for the Seireitei Communication article they were assigned.

"Only three of you got pictures of the targets and only one had one usable."

She said, quite disheartened. The month's theme was 'The Seiretei's Beauty'

No doubt who had volunteered that theme. And the SWA president, who was

Conspicuously absent, had suggested taking pictures of the most prominent people of the Soul Society.

They had failed completely.

"Well, spring is about love, love is beautiful. I could always draw up a list of tips for the longing souls." Rangiku spoke up.

Momo chuckled quietly. "No offense Ran, but your advice in better suited for one night stands. Not long lasting relationships leading to love and 'beauty' as you say."

The woman pouted playfully as the rest nodded in agreement with the lieutenant of squad five. Nanao rubbed her temples. "We need something."

They all sat in silence as they thought about their options, until the door opened and an all to cheery Shunsui walked in. "Hello ladies!" He greeted animatedly.

"Kyoraku-taichou, I have to ask you to leave." Nanao stood, eyes flashing as she fixed her glasses. She did not have the patience for this at the moment."

"Ah, no I don't. Not yet anyway." He smiled, unperturbed by her glare as he waved the folder. "All done."

She stared at him, knowing her fellows were watching confused. She took the pack of papers and looked through all of them. "I don't believe it." She said simply. "In less then three hours? You?"

"I'll be seeing you tomorrow then." Shunsui winked before practically prancing out.

In a voice rich with mirth, Rangiku loudly proclaimed. "Girls, we have our target! Tomorrow, we will report the beauty of blooming love!"

"We are not in love! Or falling into love either!"

Okay, short, very short. But it's a transition chapter of shorts. Hope it was okay though.