A/N: Hello everyone! I hope you are all enjoying the story so far.
We are going to start getting into Hiromi's past in the next couple of chapters. So you might want to prepare yourselves for some pretty heavy stuff. But first, a couple of events need to happen that will shape Starrk's relationship with Hiromi.
In the meantime though, here is a little light chapter beforehand, so OOC-ness abound!
Anyway, enjoy the read!
DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN BLEACH OR ITS CHARACTERS. OC'S BELONG TO ME. ;)
It has been a couple of days now since Grimmjow and Hiromi had parted ways. It's probably for the best anyway. The time away helped Grimmjow to figure out how he could protect Hiromi finally. He kept to his word come that morning. He spoke with Kisuke about crafting something that could hide her spirit energy, which he also presented his suspicions of her past. He's not convinced if what he told him is the case. For all he knew, it could be something he wouldn't expect. Grimmjow would need to speak with Hiromi about it and find out himself.
In all honesty, Grimmjow is looking forward to presenting the little gift to her when they reunite. He remembered from a previous conversation with her that she wore a particular piece of jewelry every day. It was a birthday gift her mother gave her when she was young. His present to her will be a small thank you for everything she has done for him. He'll think of something a little more extravagant later on.
Grimmjow is quite fond of Hiromi. He was confused at one point of how he honestly felt until he discussed it with Kisuke. Mr. Hat Clogs helped him sort out his feelings for her where Grimmjow realized that he could be in love with Hiromi. However, with the little clues about her behavior towards him since they met, Grimmjow wondered if he should remain friends with her for now. He cares for Hiromi deeply. But he shouldn't jump into a relationship with her when he's never loved anyone before. He doesn't know how to love. She may know, but he has a feeling that is why Hiromi acts the way she does.
She always seemed sad about something. Maybe even regretful whenever they got extremely close and personal. Grimmjow always wondered about it. Grimmjow tried to get her to open up about her past, but Hiromi would brush the subject off. There have been some nights where he could hear her crying. For what reason, Grimmjow wished he knew. He wants to help her in some way to ease those tears, to comfort her. Those cries he would hear made him realize later on were tears of grief and sorrow. Whatever happened to Hiromi years ago, or however long it was, still haunts her to this day.
Grimmjow is taking advantage of his much-needed break from doing dumb chores by laying out on the deck. He stared up at the blue sky above him, listening to the birds singing. It's a better sound than hearing nothing at all. At least when he was over at Hiromi's apartment, there was at least some noise. They may have been light noises, but it at least filled the silence. The quietness back at Los Noches was tiring. Here in the living world, there are all sorts of sounds. The sound of Hiromi cooking was always pleasing. Watching her cook was still fun, too.
He sighs lightly from thinking about her. Grimmjow misses having Hiromi around. She's fun to be around when you playfully ruffle her feathers a little. It gets her to grin, well, she wants to. He sees the smirk behind her pout. He noticed a while ago that she doesn't smile much. That only brings him back to wondering what happened with her that she never smiles anymore. He hates it. He hates it for Hiromi more.
I hope she's doing okay right now. I may not be near her, but I have this strange feeling that something is going on. Whatever it is, I'm sure she will be able to handle it.
Life in Los Noches was still relatively the same when Starrk returned the other day. No one approached him about his mission, Ulquiorra excluding. He was about the only person that inquired about Grimmjow's whereabouts and the condition he was in currently. Starrk is still confused about the Cuatro's behavior as it is unusual. Except he didn't want to linger on what is causing his emotionless comrade to act oddly.
Lilynette hounded him with questions the moment he returned to his chambers. With the mood that he was currently in at the time, Starrk blew her questions off before politely telling her to be quiet. He usually never tells her that which Lilynette wasn't afraid to ask why. Starrk simply said to her that he had a lot on his mind and needed silence to think things through. His behavior confused her, maybe even surprised her that Lilynette listened to him. She gave him the silence that Starrk needed but stayed close if he ever needed to sort out his thoughts verbally. She even huddled close to him as her form of comfort for him.
Starrk didn't sleep much during those couple of days. He couldn't pinpoint what the problem was that he wouldn't be able to sleep for once. It could be that Starrk constantly thought about Hiromi. She may have put on a smile, but he can see a darkness in her eyes. The lack of life is a definite clue. Something happened to her, something dark and tragic. Whatever happened, it altered her, and it bothered him. He can even see loneliness in her beautiful orbs. Starrk is familiar with being lonely. He had to live with it for a long time until he split his soul who is now Lilynette.
When he did manage to fall into a deep and much-needed rest, it was the day Szayelaporro finished his gigai. As usual, Lilynette rudely wakes him from his sleep then dragged his ass to the creepy science guy's lab. To his horror, the gigai is just what he thought it would be. He could tell that Lord Aizen was doing everything in his power not to laugh at the silliness that adorned his Primera's mishmash of a wardrobe. Even Gin Ichimaru was trying his best not to laugh. Starrk had to stomach presenting himself before them to meet briefly on his objective and the time frame to complete.
Thankfully, Starrk has all the time he needs to "find" the girl that saved Grimmjow. He didn't need to go back out there to search, but he was not going to reveal Hiromi's identity to either Lord Aizen or his colleagues. Only Ulquiorra knows. His intentions are clear, keep Hiromi safe. She got his attention. Starrk wants to know who Hiromi is and what she could be. He wants to figure out what it is about her that is drawing him to her. There has to be an explanation for this sudden desire of his.
There are some giggles as Starrk lightly trudged down the sidewalk, the metal clang from the spurs on his boots sounded with each step. It made him visibly cringe. He can even hear snickers from young men and women while the elderly stared at him, stunned. When he passed a couple of high school girls, they giggled as they stared wistfully at him with blushes gracing their young cheeks.
"He looks ridiculous in that," one of the blushing girls whispered even though he could hear them.
"He may look funny wearing it, but damn is he good looking," another voiced as they stared at him.
"Do you think Mr. Rugged Hot Stuff came from The States?"
"Nah, he probably stepped off an Old Western play."
"Why don't you go ask him, Hinata? I'll buy you lunch later."
"You know what? I think I will! I'm close to college age anyway," the Hinata girl quickly replied as she stood to start after Starrk, only to stop. "Oh, who am I kidding? I'm too much of a chicken shit to ask a hot guy anything."
"Wimp," the other droned in annoyance.
Oh, for crying out loud, this is mortifying, Starrk groans.
"Yoohoo, excuse me, young man. You do realize that you walking around like that is causing the young ones to gawk at you, right?" An older woman's amused voice sounded next to him.
"I'm well aware of that, ma'am," Starrk drones politely.
"Tell me, why are you dressed this way?"
"A bothersome roommate dared me to dress like this for an entire day. I should have gone with saying "truth" instead." And that supposed roommate is that damn Szayelaporro. I'm going to murder him!
"Nonsense, you handsome, rugged man, you! Enjoy the attention!" The older woman jested with a grin before grabbing Starrk's rear end and squeezing gently.
He jumps away from the aged woman as he turned a furious red. Ugh! Now I'm being groped!
"He was dared to dress like this, youngsters. Keep staring wistfully at him, girls!" The woman announced as she started walking away from Starrk, grinning.
Starrk remained to stand where he was, mortified and violated. He watched the older woman waltz off before turning towards the teenagers that continued to stare at him with blushes. One of them smiles shyly while another winks and blew a kiss.
He cringes visibly then turns away, blushing still. Crips! I hate this damned outfit!
Starrk has been here among the living for fifteen minutes now, and all that has happened with him was being groped and ogled. When Lord Aizen told him that he would make sure the outfit that Szayelaporro provided would meet his standards, Starrk seriously thought that he would live up to that promise. Nope, that didn't happen. He has to deal with looking like a gunslinger from an old western film. A hat is also provided. He doesn't even want to think of the other accessory item.
He could think of a lot of things that Starrk could be doing right now instead of trampling around like this. For one, sleep. Starrk is freaking tired. He was finally able to fall asleep after stressfully thinking of the predicament he got himself in now. He could have slept for a good day or so, but no, Lilynette had to wake him. Starrk berated her for it, but she didn't seem phased by his anger.
On top of all that embarrassment and fatigue, Starrk is downright bored. Taking this second mission is unnecessary when he already knows who rescued Grimmjow. He only decided to keep Hiromi's existence a secret is for him to get to know her better. He has all the time he needs to accomplish his hidden agenda. This time also provides Grimmjow enough time to heal fully and figure out how he could protect Hiromi. Starrk is doing his part in giving Hiromi company and learn about Grimmjow's friend.
He heavily sighs while he walked further down the street, absently chewing on a toothpick that he snatched from a café. Starrk made sure that no one saw him, even though the little handwritten note said: "free to take." His nerves are starting to get the better of him when he noticed more laughing. Starrk frowned to himself when he removed the stupid hat from his head to run his hand through his hair. He glances over his shoulder towards the laughter, finding several attractive twin women eyeing him with wide grins. He returns the gesture with a wink. The women squealed in delight as he passed.
Maybe this get-up is not so bad after all, the women here are quite, Starrk's couldn't finish his thought when someone collides into him roughly.
An audible oof is heard from him while a squeak of a yelp came from the person that crashed into him. They both fall back onto the pavement with a grunt. He can tell from the octave and tone that the person who collided into him is a female. Oh, come on now! Now they're fake running into me! Can it get any worse?
He found himself lying flat on his back with the unknown female laying on top of him near his stomach. She's breathing heavy since they are panting. Even the rise and fall of her chest indicated that she is a little out of breath. Starrk attempts to sit up, but the woman remained to stay still. He can't tell if she hurt herself or mortified as much as he is or trying to catch their breath still. I hope she's alright.
That's when he hears the laughter. He glances up and over at the women he smiled at, who are cackling at the scene. Neither of them is looking him in the eye only on the woman that is basically in his lap.
"Aw, poor thing. It seems like someone is desperate for attention. What a loser." A dark-haired woman honeyed with a malicious grin.
"Blondes are always seeking attention, Kiku." Another dark-haired woman commented, mirroring the other's grin.
Starrk's eyes narrow as he frowns at them. "You have your entire existence to be a bitch. Why not take today off?" He snarks.
That got them to shut up because the two twins pout then rushed off. Good riddance.
He groans unpleasantly then turned his attention on the female who started moving off him. He opens his mouth to berate her when they beat him to it.
"For fuck's sake, watch where you're going, will you!" She snaps.
Huh? I know that voice.
"I mean, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have snapped. I'm so sorry for running into you. I wasn't watching where I was going."
"Wait a minute, Hiromi?" Starrk questioned as he stared at the blonde that sat away from him.
He noticed the layer of sweat covering her arms, chest, and face. Her hair is pulled back in a ponytail but is slowly easing itself back to hanging in front of her face. The strands of hair that ran parallel to her jaw clung tightly to the contours of her cheekbones. Her bangs even stuck to her forehead. With the sun shining brightly above her, Hiromi glowed.
It caught him off guard how mesmerizing she is. Hiromi's ash blonde hair glowed gold in the sun, her sweat covered skin gleamed and shined as if she were a high polished golden statue. Her turquoise eyes only brightened like the evening star from her bright goldenrod yellow razorback tank. She's a spectacle, a golden goddess and she took his breath away.
"Starrk?" A voice echoes in his mind, drawing him out of this trance.
He inwardly shakes himself into awareness, blinking once where he now finds Hiromi leaning close. Concern overwhelmed her features. Wait, did I zone out?
It's relatively warm today. Warmer than usual for an early November morning. The sun is out and shining brightly in a cloudless, blue sky as it is the perfect weather for a morning run. It will do Hiromi good to get out of the apartment for once instead of busying herself in doing something. Most of the time, she would find herself working on a new carving project and complete it by the end of the day. Cooking and baking always seemed to pass her time. Except without Grimmjow there, it's been small light meals. At least the dishes are minimal now.
Hiromi has been on edge ever since the separation for several reasons. One of which is her confrontation with Ikkaku and that Yumichika fellow. It angered her that they would show up at her doorstep and trick her into believing that they were good Samaritans. His flattery won her over even his charming good looks. Hiromi has always been attracted to handsome men. Except she finds the rugged, bad-boy looking ones are more appealing. She knows why that is though.
Hiromi knew that after her confrontation she needed to contact Kisuke. She had to inform him that a couple of shinigami were looking for Grimmjow and followed her home. Needless to say, once she got a hold of him, he was aware of the situation. The two shinigami she met are friends of his. She was not happy to hear that of course. What bothered her, even more, is the fact that there are others and have been informed of Grimmjow's whereabouts here in the living world. They are looking for him.
Kisuke informed her that when the shinigami met for a spontaneous rendezvous had to take precaution and hid Grimmjow in his training room as they spoke about her. Ikkaku and Yumichika discussed their confrontation with her to the others, which thankfully, Kisuke kept Grimmjow from interjecting into the conversation when he mentioned that Ikkaku interrogated her. He even kept Grimmjow's location to himself while they spoke. Kisuke wasn't going to rat him out or put Hiromi in danger, which he thought it would be best if the two of them stay separated even after Grimmjow gets his gigai. It would put Hiromi even more at risk for getting caught by the shinigami or whoever from Lord Aizen's side. It made sense to a degree, but Kisuke did get a mouth full from both Hiromi and Grimmjow.
Kisuke had to direct the conversation by telling Hiromi that the shinigami questioned if she was the mole they heard about not too long ago. Now, this confused her greatly. Apparently from the sound of this news that someone leaked information about Grimmjow's supposed attack on Kaname Tōsen when the truth was Tōsen attacked him. With Kaname's injuries at the time, Aizen had to put his objectives on hold so his ally could heal. Whoever this person is, they even disclosed that he was severely wounded from an unknown female stumbling on the scene and saved Grimmjow from death. Hiromi has to wonder now who this person is that they would spy on her.
That thought unnerved her. Hiromi hates people spying on her as it brought old memories back. That is the underlining reason why she is out jogging. Those memories haunt her daily, and they tend to put her in a particularly bad mood. A mood that is hard for her to get out of. Except, when Hiromi is in these funks, she gets these odd feelings. Hiromi has always been receptive to these sensations she gets. She refers to them as her instincts. This particular morning, Hiromi felt something very familiar, one that she pays more attention to than most. Danger.
Hiromi felt this impending danger sensation course through her veins the moment she woke. She was careful to check every corner of her apartment for anything out of the ordinary and around the complex. Fortunately, nothing turned up. But Hiromi knew that eventually, something would catch her off guard. That's why she decided to go on a run. She wanted to scout the area for what could cause her wires to go wild.
She had been concentrating too much on what or who to look for that Hiromi didn't pay attention to where she was going. Hiromi collides into a muscular chest with a squeak of a yelp then lands on them with a grunt. She can tell that she ran into a male from the tone in the abdomen, especially the oversized belt buckle that felt cool against her hot and sweaty flesh. Oh, my god! Why am I always running into guys? Why can't I run into a female for once? Oh wow, they are toned.
Hiromi started to lift her head to look up at the person to apologize when she heard laughter. She wasn't sure if the laughter is from people thinking the run-in is hysterical or are laughing at her. She inwardly groans when feminine voices sounded. They were cackling at her since they think she is desperate for attention. The fact that Hiromi got laughed at through her entire childhood until her first year in high school, she hates this incident. She couldn't look up at the women or the guy that she ran into in the eye. She's mortified and furious as she recalled an incident similar to this. They need to shut the hell up! I hate getting laughed at!
"You have your entire existence to be a bitch. Why not take today off," the male snarks angrily.
The male's voice sounded familiar now that he had spoken, defending her. Wait, is that, is that who I think it is?
Hiromi may have recognized the voice, but she noticed that her high awareness of danger approaching started to fade. Whatever it was, this person is distracting her. Or maybe, they decided to hang back and watch. Son of a, I was so caught up in figuring out what would cause my nerves to go haywire that I wasn't paying attention to my forward surroundings. Dammit!
"For fuck's sake, watch where you're going, will you!" She snaps.
Hiromi instantly regretted snapping at the guy. There is a possibility of the guy being attractive, and she just bit back at them. For crying out loud, why do I keep doing this to myself?
"I mean, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have snapped. I'm so sorry for running into you. I wasn't watching where I was going." She quickly apologized as she pulled away from him.
"Wait a minute, Hiromi?" The recognizable voice questioned.
Hiromi glances up at them, confusion and surprise overwhelming her features. It's Starrk, and he's staring at her curiously. Are you fucking kidding me, right now? Not only do I trip over a damn kid toy in front of him, but I also have to run into him AND lay in his lap! Oh my god, can anything else happen with him other than making a fool out of myself?
She berates herself for being an idiot briefly before she acknowledged him fully. When she did though, Hiromi noticed his stunned, dazed expression. Wait, why is he staring at me like that? Did he hurt himself when he fell back?
Hiromi leaned close to inspect his head for any injuries while lightly calling out to him. "Starrk?"
She sees him blink then stares at her dumbfounded, or maybe in awe. Crap, he must have hit his head.
"Starrk, you, are you okay? You didn't hit your head, did you?" She inquired with concern while lightly brushing small strands of hair out of his line of vision.
"Oh uh, um no." He stuttered then gently swats her hand away. He quickly grabbed at the hat that fell from his head, replacing it to shield his glowing red face as he started up from the ground.
She stared at him perplexed. She caught him blushing but decided not to say anything. Hiromi started to stand when Starrk was quick to stoop low to help her up, even though it wasn't necessary. Once they stood, Hiromi stepped back as she is still a little embarrassed for running into him. She doesn't make eye contact with him, only stares at his chest. That's when Hiromi noticed what he was wearing. Um, what is he?
Hiromi discreetly scans her eyes up and down his tall frame, noting the powder blue button-down shirt paired with a brown leather vest. He's wearing what appeared to be dark brown relaxed trousers, cowboy boots with spurs, a red bandanna scarf around his neck and that large gold belt buckle. The white cowboy hat with a toothpick in his mouth tops it. She wanted to lightly laugh, except Hiromi noticed something about Starrk in that instant. The mishmash of an outfit complimented Starrk's rugged features. He already has the faded goatee look going on, has these beautiful piercing blue-gray eyes and a chiseled jaw to go with it. Even his body language screams relaxed, cool cowboy. Coyote Starrk is a sexy modern-day cowboy.
She couldn't help but stare at him, absolutely mesmerized by his enhanced ruggedness. She can feel a flush of heat on her cheeks and nose that her lips part slightly in awe. Hiromi has this great flutter of butterflies swarming in her stomach, even an intense growing warmth that is in between her thighs. If she opened her mouth, Hiromi would not be able to function. Oh, uh um uh, wow. I knew Starrk is handsome but, damn. He is freaking sexy in that.
"Hiromi? Are you listening to me?" His low, smooth and attractive masculine voice sounded in her mind.
Oh crap! I didn't realize he was talking. "Oh, uh um, sorry. Just, what exactly are you wearing?"
It was his turn to stare, but he seems more annoyed than anything. "You weren't listening at all were you, Lass?"
"Um sorry no, I didn't hear what you were saying. Your outfit took me by surprise. What made you decide to wear something like that anyway?"
"If you were listening you would have heard me tell you that this monstrosity was all Szayelaporro's idea. I had people gawking at me already, and I didn't need you to do the same let alone laugh."
Hiromi furrows her brows. "Who now? That was quite the mouthful of a name. I wouldn't laugh at you anyway. I hate being laughed at, too. It's just different. Plus, you do kind of stick out with that white cowboy hat of yours."
"I know, and I freaking hate this thing."
"I can understand to a degree, but I don't see why you should hate it with a passion. If we removed a few accessories, it wouldn't be so noticeable. Besides, I think its a good look for you," Hiromi compliments.
Starrk can only frown. "If I were able to remove the spurs on these damned boots, it would at least stop drawing some of the attention," Starrk replies a little harshly then started walking forwards making the metal at his heels to clang loudly.
"Starrk, hanii, I don't think it's the spurs that are, wait, hold on. Are those chaps you're wearing?" Hiromi mused as a grin surfaced.
"Yes! And don't smile either! I'm embarrassed as it is."
"I would be too if I had to walk around with that outdated piece. It looks ancient. At least we figured out where the source of your embarrassment lies. This Szayelaporra guy, does he not know that we are living in the twenty-first century?"
"Probably not or he didn't care. In the fifteen minutes that I've been here, I got ogled, laughed and just moments ago groped by some older lady. I wish I can get out of this damned thing, so the women don't laugh." He responds as he counted down the things that have happened with one hand.
"Funny, you didn't mention the ladies fawning over you, Mr. Chick Magnet. Besides, who in their right mind would not love a rugged, handsome man like yourself, Starrky boy." Hiromi smiles teasingly before approaching him.
"What the Starrky boy? Why would," he sputtered before getting cut off when Hiromi hooked an arm around his then directed him to a boutique. "What the hell are you doing? I'm not going in there."
"Look, hanii, I can't take you seriously with you wearing that unnecessary monstrosity. I'm having you do a quick wardrobe fix, so the horny ladies of Karakura Town don't snatch you." Hiromi continued to smile which relaxed Starrk to a degree.
"Hanii? Is that honey for the term of endearment or the actual sweet condiment?"
"It's a term of endearment," Hiromi quickly replies then turned towards one of the associates of the girly boutique upon entering.
"Excuse me, miss? Would you mind if we used one of your dressing rooms?"
The young woman stares at the couple. "Whatever for?" She inquired while hiding a smirk.
"My boyfriend's idiot roommate made him dress as a cowboy on a dare, and I need to get him out of this monstrosity of an accessory before more people make fun of him," Hiromi explained quickly on a whim, smiling widely.
"How would you even know that?" Starrk whispered, stunned at her wit.
The associate chuckles. "Sure thing. They're in the back. Just no funny business, if you know what I mean?" The girl hinted with a grin and wink as she pointed towards the back of the store.
"We'll try to keep that in mind. My boyfriend can get a little handsy. Come on, hanii." Hiromi smiles sweetly then guided Starrk towards the back room.
He stared stunned at her as she dragged him around the corner and into one of the small stalls. Both of them can fit inside without much of a hassle. Starrk glances around briefly at the four walls that encased them. There is an upholstered gray chair in the right corner and a mirror just to his left, there are even a couple of hooks on the walls for articles of clothing to hang.
"Alright, the first thing that needs to go is that heavy leather vest. I don't mind it, but it's making your shoulders sag. I'll buy you a much lighter one later when I have my wallet handy." Hiromi's voice sounded, disturbing the silence between them.
He didn't realize that they were quiet while they stood somewhat close. Starrk glances down at Hiromi to see her reaching upwards.
"Uh what, what are you doing?" He stuttered.
"I'm just taking off the hat, only the hat. I promise I won't make any moves on you. I'm only helping." Hiromi replies sincerely then snatched the hat off his head to place it on her own.
Starrk relaxes as he stared down at her, finding that Hiromi looked cute wearing the white cowboy hat even though it is a little big on her.
He eyes Hiromi for a second more then slipped out of the heavy vest. "You don't have to buy me anything or help for that matter, you know."
"I know, I don't have to do anything, but I want to," Hiromi lightly smiles.
He blushes as he tossed the vest to the floor, his shoulders sagging in relief from the lack of weight. Starrk then went for the scarf that is around his neck, actually having a hard time untying the tight knot.
"Crips, what the hell? Did he tie this thing to the point where I can't get it off!" He barks lightly, struggling still.
"Jeez, you're like a frustrated child when they can't tie their shoelaces. Let me help you with that." Hiromi replies with a smirk then stood close on the tips of her toes to try and untie the bandanna scarf. She scrunched her features in annoyance when she too had difficulty.
"What the crap? Even I can't get it loose. Hold on a second," she quickly replied then heads out of the dressing room.
Starrk stood bewildered of the whole situation but remained to untie the scarf. When he couldn't get it off, he moved on to remove the large buckle. Thankfully that was easy for him to remove as it snapped off, but now he is left with the thick and sturdy chaps. He analyzed the odd accessory briefly before starting to remove it when Hiromi returned to the dressing room.
"Alright, hold still for me," Hiromi instructed when she returned and had him turn towards her.
She reached with a pair of scissors to pry at the tight knot. Except, she is having difficulty when she is standing on the tips of her toes unsteadily. Starrk can tell that she is getting annoyed with the slight height difference. Without really thinking about it, he wraps his arms around her thighs, underneath her buttocks and hoists her off the floor. A startled little squeak escapes her lips from his sudden movements that Hiromi wraps her arms around his neck to keep her balance. She was mindful with the shears in her hand as she hugged him close, yet avoided eye contact with him.
Hiromi felt her feet bump into the chair that is behind her, instinctively placing her shins on the padding to kneel on the furniture. She stood a head taller than him now and has a clear shot of the scarf. Hiromi blinks herself out of her stunned state and clears her throat when she felt that heat again. Oh god, I am not attracted to Mr. Cowboy here, she lies to herself.
"Um uh, thanks. Now hold still," Hiromi instructs again while working the sharp point into the knot.
She is careful to not accidentally poking him with the scissors but also trying not to notice Starrk's hands lingering at her hips. She can feel his fingers gently pressing into the taut fabric of her running leggings that it's distracting. It's for balance, Hiromi, only for balance. He wouldn't want you to fall on him with sharp scissors in your hands. I would most likely kill him, and I don't need that to happen.
Hiromi concentrated hard on releasing the tight knot that she didn't realize her tongue was poking out from her lips a little. Starrk took notice of this habit that he couldn't help but lightly smirk. They stayed relatively silent while Hiromi worked the knot, but that silence was disturbed when she spoke.
"I'm glad to see that you returned, Starrk. I trust you made the right decision." Hiromi started to distract herself from his hands.
"What if I didn't?" he countered softly.
"If you hadn't, it wouldn't be you that would be here."
"That's not what I meant, Lass."
He sees her gulp tightly. "Well, then, we'll take things as they come. So, please, don't worry too much about it."
"That's easy for you to say. Are you not in the least bit concerned here?" He questioned firmly.
"I am. I," Hiromi pauses to think of what to say right now. A sudden sadness enveloped her gaze, but she blinks it away just as quickly. Starrk noticed.
"The thing is, I don't want to ever think about the possibility of losing anyone. I don't want to lose you or Grimmjow. You and he are about the only people I have right now. I'm in the process of patching things up with an old friend since I just reunited with them after five years apart. So, I much rather live in the now, the present and not the when, as the future is not a guarantee. I live each day like it is my last, as I only have one life to live. In other words, grab the bull by the horns and ride, never let go until death kicks your ass off."
Starrk stares softly at with a frown. He noticed something while Hiromi said this, her voice quivered, and her hands trembled. He can tell that this quote has a special meaning behind it. Someone must have told her that. I wonder who though?
"There!" Hiromi triumphantly exclaimed, her previous mood vanishing quickly.
She was quick to untie the scarf and pull it off him. Hiromi even unbuttoned the top two buttons for Starrk to breath without him feeling like he is suffocating. He was quick to undue three more to reveal a little of his chest — enough of what he would generally have exposed with his Espada jacket.
"Ah, much better." He sighs in relief.
"I'll let you handle that monstrosity," Hiromi suggested as she pointed at the chaps. "I'll get rid of the spurs on your boots. So, you might want to take those off for me."
"How would you even know how?" He questions as he slowly eased them off.
"It's pretty simple really. I'll give you some room so you can get out of that thing. I'm sure you don't want my hands roving all over you."
I probably wouldn't mind it though, Starrk thought to himself as he handed her the boots.
"I'll be right outside the door if you need me."
At first, he wasn't going to say anything and let her deal with the noisy clingers. Instead, he thought about what she had said earlier to the associate. An idea occurred to him, "Actually," he starts with hesitation.
Hiromi glances over her shoulder at him as she stood at the door, noting the light blush on the bridge of his nose. "Yeah," she inquired cautiously.
"I could use a little help with this," Starrk finishes with a wink. There's even a hint of a mischievous smile spreading on his lips.
"Hmm, what are you planning, cowboy?" Hiromi mused with a little devious smirk herself.
He mirrors her grin. "Just go with it."
After ten minutes of removing the cowboy accessories from Starrk's person, and having a little fun with the boyfriend, girlfriend concept to mess with the associate, both him and Hiromi exited the boutique. Hiromi's blush lingered still. She didn't peg Starrk to be, spontaneous. It surprised her. She was trying her best not to laugh from making suggestive noises in the dressing room. Working to remove the chaps from Starrk helped them in making some of them, even the light chuckles. The little 'whoops' from Starrk when he tripped over one of the large boots and fell against the wall with Hiromi beneath him was another. That's what did them in though.
They quickly ended their charade. Both were smart enough to ruffle one another's hair before leaving the dressing room. Of course, the associate couldn't look them in the eye when Hiromi requested a shopping bag to put the clothing in. They accomplished their goal. Would they be doing it again anytime soon? Most likely not. It was a one-time thing anyway, especially when they are trying to establish a friendship.
Hiromi carried the bag that contained the articles of clothing at her side while Starrk followed closely next to her. They didn't say much, just enjoyed the light silence between them and maybe exchanged a few small words during their walk down the sidewalk. After a while though, Hiromi wanted to have an actual conversation.
"I'm curious, what brought you back here? I can only assume it is not just to check up on me. Am I right?"
Starrk regards her with a sideways glance. "I need to talk to you about that. Let's find someplace to sit for a bit."
Hiromi was quick to catch the seriousness in his tone. "There's a café up ahead that we can sit and talk. They have outside seating so we can sit out here. It is a nice day anyway with it being November."
"They wouldn't by any chance have any beer, would they?"
"Cafés normally don't sell alcohol. But if you want to have beer as your first beverage here, we can go to a bar if you like? There's one about a couple of blocks ahead."
"Nah, it's alright. I really just need something to quench my thirst after our little stunt back there." He reveals a ghost of a smirk after bringing it up. I'll admit, that was fun and I usually don't do fun.
"Aw, what's the matter, cowboy? Did I suck all the moisture out from your tongue?" Hiromi jests with a wide teasing smile.
Starrk glances over at her with a snort. "Every last bit, Lass. My mouth feels like the desert sand of Hueco Mundo." He jokes.
"Hueco Mundo?" She questioned gently.
"The Land of Hollows. It's where I first started when I was a hollow, but I was a lot stronger than the others. But never mind that, I got a more important matter to discuss."
"I would have to admit that I'm now very much intrigued to know more about you. Given the fact that someone did create your gigai that there are others. Of course, that can wait. What is it that you need to discuss with me?"
He gives her a pointed look with a slight frown. "My reasoning for being here. Is this the place?" Starrk questioned when they approached the café that Hiromi spoke of.
"Yeah, this is the place."
They both started to head inside when Starrk caught something from the corner of his eye. He stops abruptly to figure out what it was but saw nothing, only an empty sidewalk. An unnerving feeling started to creep in his bones, and he can't shake it off. I know I just saw something.
"Starrk?" Hiromi's voice disturbed him suddenly, drawing him out of this strange haze.
"Oh sorry, coming," he quickly replies as he approached.
He places a hand at the small of Hiromi's back then begun to lead her inside rather quickly. Starrk chooses to ignore the confused expression that crossed her features even her calling his name. He absentmindedly trials his hand from her back to her waist, keeping her close as they crossed the room to the register. Keep Hiromi close, he tells himself.
It took them about five minutes to get their beverages and settle themselves underneath an umbrella covered table. They sat opposite one another. Coyote sat to watch the empty sidewalk behind Hiromi while she looked ahead at the busier side behind him. Hiromi kicked back a little in the metal bistro style chair with one leg stretched out and the other resting on Starrk's thigh. He rested a hand on her calf to hold her leg in place while his other lightly gripped a ceramic coffee cup. Starrk slightly mirrored Hiromi's sitting position with one stretched and the other with her leg resting on is somewhat bent at the knee.
They were quiet for only a moment before Hiromi broke the light silence between them. "How is your coffee there?"
"Eh, a little too strong for my taste and bitter. It could use a little bit of sugar," Starrk replies as he watched Hiromi pull at the pastry in her hand. Whatever that is it looks pretty tasty.
"Here, take some icing. It will give your coffee the sweetness that it needs. So, what brought you back here?" Hiromi questions as she took a small piece of the icing and put it in his coffee.
He purses his lips in thought, trying to figure out how to put it as he swirled the coffee around. "I'm not going to sugar coat it, but you caught Lord Aizen's attention, Hiromi."
She stares briefly before lightly groaning. "I guess, my interference with Grimmjow and Kaname's fight triggered some red flags for him, huh?"
Hmm, she catches on quick. "Exactly that. Mind you Lord Aizen still wants to find Grimmjow. He believes that maybe he sought out the shinigami for assistance and are hiding his spirit energy in a gigai. So naturally, he would think that maybe you would be seen with him."
Hiromi doesn't say anything to counter the assumption. She needs to keep her mouth shut to protect Grimmjow. She may be fond of Starrk, but Hiromi can't trust him fully just yet. She needs to play it safe to see if he is trustworthy.
"But what does that mean for me? I know I caught his interest because of my interference but what kind of red flags is he worried about?"
"I'm not entirely sure, but I don't doubt he sees you as a threat to his current objectives. For all I know, he might see you as a shinigami in a gigai as well."
"Pfft, he doesn't have to worry about that. I'm no shinigami. Even if I were, I certainly wouldn't get my nose in someone else's business let alone get involved in a war where someone's ego is bigger than their brain like this Lord Aizen guy."
Starrk chuckles. "As Grimmjow put it before, he does have an ego. The guy is cunning like Grimmjow can be." Hiromi may say that she is not a shinigami but what if she is, and is lying to me about it.
"I've noticed that particular trait when I first met him. But what does Lord Aizen want with me?"
He sighs heavily. "He wants you in for questioning."
"Questioning?" She echoes in confusion.
"For some reason, Lord Aizen believes that Grimmjow is alive instead of me reporting him supposedly dead. His objective was to locate you with him."
Her brows knit close in confusion. "Meaning if Grimmjow was in a gigai that resembled him I would be close by? Hmm, its smart of him to think that, but now I'm confused. Wouldn't he want to execute him for what he did after questioning him?"
"I thought the same, but he has a different approach. Lord Aizen is being reasonable for once. He wants to listen and understand Grimmjow's sudden abandonment, not immediate termination."
Hiromi stares for a moment computing this bit of information. "So, basically this Lord Aizen is willing to give Grimmjow one more chance. If I'm reading into this, correctly."
"That's what I'm getting out of this. That's why I'm here. When I returned with my findings on Grimmjow's whereabouts, not only did I inform him that I couldn't find Grimmjow and figured he was dead, I kept your existence to myself."
Hiromi stares at him in astonishment that she dropped her pastry. "You, you did what? Why did you?"
Starrk inwardly groans lightly at himself and rubs the back of his neck while diverting his gaze. "Look, I don't know why this is, but I have a strong desire to," he stops mid-sentence when something caught his eye from behind Hiromi.
Even though the sidewalk behind her is empty, there are several other café tables with customers enjoying the weather. A few of them have newspapers in front of them, but he can see their faces, except for one. They have the large parchment shielding their features, the shadows are helping as well. That unnerving feeling surged through him as he eyed the person suspiciously from a reasonable distance.
"Starrk?" Hiromi calls out lightly to him. He noticed her voice is soft, like a whisper.
He returns his gaze on her, noticing that Hiromi has stiffened and is eyeing him cautiously. Wait, does she feel something as well?
"Why are you looking over my shoulder?" She questions.
"I don't want to alarm you, Lass, but I believe someone is watching us," he replies calmly while growing rigid. His grip on her calf even tightened.
Hiromi blinks once as she slowly started to look behind her.
"Don't look back at them, love." He lightly urged as he held his gaze on her but would quickly glance over at the person behind her briefly.
That's when she feels it, the impending danger sensation. It coursed through her veins like a siren. Oh, please, please don't let it be him. "Do, do you know what they look like?" This time her voice trembled and Starrk didn't like the sound of it either.
"They're shielding themselves with a newspaper so I can't see their face. Why are you so nervous all the sudden, Hiromi?"
He sees her gulp tightly, a sure sign that she is keeping something in particular from him.
"I, I can't, god, fuck," Hiromi groans as she covered her face from him. There is even a strangled sob.
She's scared of something. Dammit, Lass, talk to me here! "Hiromi, I need you to tell me what it is that you are afraid of. What are you keeping from me?" He replies sharply.
"I, I'm, it's difficult for me to talk about it, Starrk."
"What's difficult?"
She pauses for a moment, "my past."
Alright, what the hell does she mean by that?
"Please, tell me who it is that is behind me. If it's the person that I think it is, I need to contact the police, quickly. Someone is after me, that's all I can say right now. Who is behind me, Coyote?" Hiromi asks still with a trembled voice and tears threatening to fall.
Wait, someone is after her? Alright, I do not like the sound of this. Angered, Starrk diverts his gaze on the person that is hiding behind the paper. He noticed that they were watching them but quickly hid back behind it. He can hear them grumbling, but Starrk couldn't decipher the tone in their voice to know if they're a male or not. Starrk glances down at their hands, noting that they are large male hands. Alright, this son of a bitch is going to get his ass kicked.
"I'm about to find out," Starrk responds angrily. He lightly nudges her leg off him then started to stand from which he sat when someone approaches their table.
"Well, well, look who it is? Hey there, Hiromi. It's nice to see you again." A familiar voice disturbs her.
She removes her hands from her face to glare at them with her fearful tears still threatening to fall. Are you fucking kidding me right now! What the bloody hell does he want?
Standing in front of her is Ikkaku Madarame with a wide jovial smile, but is panting heavily and sweating. His friend Yumichika and a group of people soon came in her line of sight and stood behind him with curious glares. One of them is a woman with long ginger hair who noticed Hiromi's distress upon approaching.
She mouths, "Are you okay?'
Hiromi glares at her that she is not before returning her gaze on Ikkaku who continued to pant.
"Madarame." She snarls.
Starrk remains to sit there, confused and nervous as hell. Well, this is just perfect. Things just got a little more complicated.
A/N: Well, that is it for chapter ten. I hope you liked it.
Chapters 11, 12, 14-16 are complete, Chapter 13 is in progress, so I'm now several chapters in. I started working on Chapter 17, so I will be updating on Friday's for the next couple weeks.
Just a little FYI, Grimmjow will be absent from this point until Chapter 17, possibly 18. I'm projecting a total of twenty-five to thirty chapters, maybe less.
I do still plan on posting a sister story of missing scenes and one-shots. I have one ready. I just need to get it posted. I'll even take some user requests of what you would like to see.
Anyway, thanks for the read and please leave reviews! They are very much appreciated even constructive criticism.
Chow!