Disclaimer: Mature content. I do not own Bleach nor the cover pic.

Chapter 12: Chinese Take Out and Doughnuts

"Even if the heart wavers- The dance and the blade tip remain steady."

-Tite Kubo

"Big Brother, didn't Rukia look so beautiful at her debut? I saw her on the news this morning! She looked absolutely breathtaking! Even Karin thought so as well!"

Ichigo leaned back against his white love seat in his office as he perused through the newspaper of Rukia on the front page. He must admit that he agreed with his younger sister, Rukia looked very beautiful in her black dress.

"Yeah, I see her on the front page right now," Ichigo casually said to his phone that was laying on the table as he crossed his legs opening the newspaper to view the entire article. He was surprised that the coverage of the midget's debut was covered in over two pages in the newspaper.

"I also saw pictures of you both together. You look so handsome with her big brother! You two would be great as boyfriend and girlfriend!" Yuzu squealed through the speaker phone as she continued raving on about the debut. "The Debut looks so glamorous compared to the others; I really wish I could have gone! When can I go?"

Ichigo set down the paper and started rubbing his temples as it was early in the morning and he was not ready to be bombarded with so many questions especially when he was getting e-mails and phone call up the wall wanting to book Rukia.

"Yuz, what is the reason why you are calling me so early today? I have a lot I need to get done this morning- actually no this entire weekend," He uncrossed his legs and leaned forward resting his elbows on his knees as he continued to stare at the phone.

"Well dad-"

Ichigo groaned which made his little sister giggle on the other end of the line. He knew it.

"I haven't even told you yet! Why are you making such noises already?" Yuzu continued to giggle.

Ichigo let out a sigh as he hung his head low already feeling the irritation, "You know how dad is. He always sends you to talk to me because he knows if he asks I will most likely say no. You have a higher chance of a yes and he doesn't even bother sending Karin to me. What does the old man want?"

Yuzu was a bit reluctant after hearing his words, "Well… We all saw how gorgeous Rukia was last night so we want to know if you can bring her by for dinner soon so we can congratulate her on her debut! I will be cooking something delicious for sure, maybe one of your favorite dishes."

Ichigo head hung lower, "Are you fu-"

"That sounds like a delightful idea Yuzu. I will arrange a date and time when Kurosaki and Rukia to swing by for dinner but it won't be terribly soon as our schedules are completely hectic."

Ichigo looked up immediately not noticing that Uryu had walked in the door and caught Yuzu's question. His eyes were sparkling through his thin frames as he smirked at the phone then at Ichigo, he looked completely pissed at him for answering the question for her.

"Uryu! I have not talked to you in such a long time! When are you going to come over again?" Yuzu asked as she was clearly happy to hear from Ichigo's oldest friend. "Thank you for arranging Rukia to be coming over!"

Uryu shifted up his frames with his index finger, "I am not quite sure when I will be free as with Rukia now debuted into Soul Society. We are quite busy, but I will make sure I will send you a care package from here with the latest make up and what not since I won't be able to see you as soon as I like." Uryu smiled as he heard a loud gleeful squeal on the other end of the line.

"Thank you Uryu! We will love it! Please help me send Ichigo home for dinner sometime soon with Rukia!"

"Whatever Yuz, tell Karin I said hi," He tapped the phone off after his little sister said goodbye and looked up at the still smirking man. "What the fuck was that Uryu?"

Uryu strode across the room and sat down on the one seater as he picked up the newspaper that Ichigo tossed onto the coffee table.

"What was what?" Uryu ignored his blazing eye contact as his own eyes perused through the newspaper. "My Rukia is getting much attention from her debut. More than we had expected…" His eyes never left the paper as Ichigo nodded in agreement forgetting about why he was pissed a moment before. Slick Uryu.

"The phones here have been ringing like crazy asking to book an interview or a shoot with her. I knew she would be popular, but I didn't predict her to be this popular."

"Don't you think she is overwhelmed? Have you talked to her about it after the debut ended?"

...

"Kurosaki, the debut was fantastic. One of the best if not the best debut you had hosted thus far!" Yoshi purred at him as she touched his arm. She was staring hungrily at the handsome man as she leaned forward wanting to kiss him on the cheek but Shunsui stepped in and grabbed her arm lightly and gently pulled her back. Her face twisted in annoyance as she shoved his hand off of her arm.

"You obviously had a lot of champagne tonight Yoshi. Let us go find your driver to take you back home," Shunsui said as the woman face was flushed red either from the champagne or the embarrassment he had caused her. Yoshi ran off to obtain her coat from one of the ushers before saying another word, not even a good-bye. "But I do agree Kurosaki, this is the best debut you had hosted. You will definitely expect much publicity and wants for her," his head nodded over to the small girl who was talking with the make-up team and editor.

Shunsui glanced at Ichigo who was now staring over at her, his face was more relaxed when he was focused on her. The ambers in his eyes were a very light shade and not dark as he usually wore them.

"Be careful Kurosaki," Shunsui warned as Ichigo turned to face him with confusion. "I saw who was here earlier. Just be careful," Shunsui said once more before smacking the back of Ichigo with an open palm causing him to wince slightly. "Expect a call from me as I will want to design an outfit for her for a shoot. You can't let Kisuke have all the fun!" He left to go find the drunken woman before Ichigo could say another word to the man.

"Is everything all right Kurosaki?" Uryu asked as he stood before Ichigo with a darkened look upon his face, as the ambers were dark- very dark.

Ichigo shook his head trying to brush off the concerns the designer had for him., "Let's just get the guest out of here, I am fucking exhausted and want to go home." Ichigo left Uryu alone as he went to say good-bye to the remaining guests.

After another exhausting hour or so, the entire guest list was finally out of the door of the ballroom except for their team and Toshiro. They all lounged fatigued on the stairs exhausted as they glanced around the empty ballroom. Rukia's eyes drifted to her pictures as the champagne warmed her face as she felt very warm and happy. She finally did it, she debut. She fidgeted with the laced sleeves as she thought of Renji and Tatsuki's kiss.

"This was quite the debut Kurosaki, I must admit," Toshiro commented as he leaned back against the gold railing sitting on a marble step of the staircase. Momo was quietly sleeping on his chest as she was leaning back against him; her cheeks were flushed red as she had passed out from the champagne. Toshiro held her close, fully aware how the two of the must looked to the others, "I must apologize on the behalf of your assistant being passed out behavior. It was entirely my fault for letting her handle so much champagne so please do not-"

Ichigo waved his hand cutting off Toshiro as Rangiku giggled at the sight of them, "No need to be so fucking formal Toshiro. How long have we known each other and besides she wasn't causing a scene. She was having fun which we all needed from all the preparations that went on for Rukia." He stifled a yawn as he loosened his black tie around his neck with a hand then leaned back against a step, resting his elbows on the stair above him, "I am perfectly happy this went well but I am glad this shit is over."

Toshiro glanced over at the small girl that debuted, "You are very lucky to have such an incredible and hardworking team Kuchiki." Toshiro yawned as well after he gave her a small smile.

Rukia blushed slightly as she massaged her feet as they were super sore from wearing her heels all night long, resting on a few steps lower than the others next to Rangiku. Rangiku let out a small groan of relief as she was too massaging her feet. Both girls giggled as they looked at one another and winked.

Uryu checked his watch and frown at the time, "Ah it's a little after two in the morning. Let's head home as Kurosaki and I are planning on being at the office early this morning as I assume we will be very busy." Uryu stood tall from his own step and stretched his arms out in his fitted blue suit.

"Ishida, should I come into the office as well? I am not sure exactly what I will need to be doing…" Rukia was confused on what happens next now that she is an official model.

Ishida glanced over at her, "You all can take the Friday off as well as the weekend. However, come Monday we will go over your schedule as I am sure we will be booking up many events on your behalf. Rest while you can Rukia." Ishida gave her a small encouraging smile but knew she was in for a long haul. The pros and cons about being a famous model.

He turned to Toshiro as he watched him scoop Momo up in his arms before getting up slowly and carefully, "Would you like me to take Ms. Hinamori home Toshiro?" He stepped forward about to grab her from his arms but Toshiro shook his head as he politely declined the offer.

"No, I will handle it from here Ishida, thank you. I want to make sure she is alright as she had much to drink tonight," Toshiro chuckled softly as he started to proceed up the stairs with Rangiku.

Uryu smiled and glanced back at Rukia as he was walking up the stairs, watching her trying to slip her heels on while standing up. She wobbled a bit as she tried to balance on one foot which made Uryu starting to head her way down the stairs to help but stopped when Ichigo was already by her side and was holding out his hand to her.

Rukia looked up and noticed her boss's hand out in front of her; her eyes drifted up to his face curiously and noticed how tired he truly looked. The tired face turned into a scowl the longer she stared at him, being mesmerized by his beauty. The brows creased in a jagged line as he furrowed the orange.

"Take my fucking hand already midget or you will fall as you can clearly not balance while trying to slip your heel on," He eyes her slightly irritated but was trying to calm his nerves as she was bent slightly over revealing her naked back to him and her long raven hair was flowing down the side of her head as she peeked up at him. Her white gold earrings were dangling as those vibrant violets were wide with confusion as to why his hand was there in the first place. She slowly stood tall and reached her small hand to him and slid them into his palm. His fingers enclosed over hers as he watch her leg sneak out from the opening of the front of her dress, easily slipping her foot into her red heel with his support. Once she was stabilized with both heels on, she tried to release his hand but he held her hand and intertwined their fingers, leading her up the staircase.

"I know your feet hurt, so I am only doing this so you don't fall down the stairs, only then all my efforts will be a damn waste if you hurt yourself…I won't forgive myself if you had fallen on my watch…" Ichigo didn't catch her blush as he led her up the stairs with the others waiting outside of the front entrance of the ballroom.

Rukia cheeks were growing warmer by the second as she felt his hand tightened around hers, she couldn't even feel the pain in her feet as his grasp was taking over her senses. Her eyes peeked up at the back of his hair as he was walking in front of her down his arm to their hands. The hand may be small but it fit so perfectly well into his. His hands were slightly tan with well-manicured nails. Is everything about this man so perfect?

Her thoughts expunged as she felt herself being engulfed in the cold crisped air in the early hours of the morning. Ichigo had led her out of the ballroom onto the red carpet.

"Can it be any colder out here? My ladies are definitely not liking this chill," Rangiku giggled and shivered as she rubbed her arms, not helping that her large 'ladies' were compressed together through her ball gown.

"It is rather cold isn't it?" Rukia shivered as she brought her hands up to her arms and slowly rubbed the laced fabric, trying to create the warmth friction.

A small luxury car pulled up as Toshiro turned towards them, "This is me. Thanks for your invitation for The Debut Kurosaki -Ishida," He gave them a small smile as the valet attendant open up the passenger door for him so he could slip the sleeping girl onto the seat and buckle her in. Once he shut the door he glanced over at Ichigo once again.

"Expect a call from me soon so we can discuss further projects with Kuchiki," He watched Ichigo nodded and turned to Rukia. "It was a pleasure meeting you and I already know you will be great success in your future endeavors. I can expect to be seeing you more in the future."

Rukia gave him a genuine smile, "I would very much like to work with you as well. Please get Momo home safe."

Toshiro nod his head as he strut to the driver's side and slipped right in before slamming the door shut. They all watched him drove away as the attendant ran off to obtain another car.

Rukia shivered once more and let out a cold breath of air until she felt something warm and heavy around her shoulders. She peeks down and noticed a black suit jacket was draped over her, providing a comfortable warmth she desired. Turning her head, she noticed Ichigo was only wearing his white dress shirt as he started to un-buttoned the top buttons near the neck. His eyes drifted to her casually as she does her usual stare.

Ichigo scowled, "What?"

She tilted her head, "Thank you for the jacket. I didn't know you to be such a gentleman." Her eyes sparkled as she teased the handsome man.

"W-What? I am hot for busting my ass around all day and you seem cold from the sheer dress you are wearing. I didn't want to hold my jacket so I gave it to you," He looked uncomfortable as he rolled up his sleeves to prove he was hot. "If anything, you are doing me a favor by holding it for me midget."

"You think I am your coat hanger?" Rukia widened her eyes as she was holding back from laughing at him. "If you wanted to give me your jacket because you wanted me to be warm that is all you had to say Ichigo. You don't have to come up with excuses when that is an excuse itself."

Ichigo scowled even more as his cheeks were slightly pink, "I am not coming up with excuses when that is THE excuse midget!" He was actually starting to feel hot…

Uryu was intrigued by the bickering between the two as he watched Ichigo trying to defend his actions when Rukia was only trying to explain to him it was perfectly acceptable to be a gentleman an to admit to it, his concentration was interrupted when he heard a clearing of a throat and turned to see Rangiku staring at him with a slight frown.

"I believe Kurosaki shouldn't be the only gentleman here…" She hinted as she rubbed her arms shivering, squeezing those assets unknowingly.

Uryu frowned in confusion as to what the make-up artist entailed. He widened his eyes as the light bulb clicked on and quickly unbuttoning his suit jacket to give to her, "My apologies. I should have not let such a beautiful woman go cold on my own accord. How unacceptable of me to not noticed how you must have been cold with such a lovely dress."

Rangiku slowly blushed as her eyes examined Uryu stepping closer to her and swung the coat around her with his arms over her shoulders. She could smell his cologne… the cologne was a small musk of spice, very light… very manly. Her body shivered slightly but not from the cold, she felt his hair glide passed her cheek as he gently placed the coat over her shoulders before reaching down and buttoning the front of the coat, trapping her arms down in the front. Rangiku could not help but feel hot, maybe it was the champagne?

Uryu stepped back and smiled at her as her face looked completely flushed in the darkness. Uryu wasn't as muscular as Ichigo was, his frame was slender yet the coat was a little loose on Rangiku. She could have pulled it off stylishly with a pair of boyfriend jeans and heels.

"The jacket actually really compliments your frame… you should keep it and pair it with some boyfriend jeans and heels. I believe you will look stunning," Uryu observed as he gave her a smile.

"T-thank you Ishida…" She managed to sputter. What was wrong with her? She had men telling her all the time she was beautiful an very desirable. It's the champagne. It has to be the champagne. Why else was she feeling overly warm on her cheeks?

"Are you two done yet?" Ichigo called over to them as they both turned to face him and Rukia, forgetting they were there. "I am going to take midget home," his eyes glanced over at Rangiku still looking a bit flustered as a hand snuck out from the opening and was patting her cheek. "Uryu, can you take Rangiku home? I don't think she is fit to go home on her own," his eyes narrowed as he watched Rangiku eyes widened.

"Of course Kurosaki, I will see you in the morning," Uryu said just in time as the attendant pulled up his suv.

…

"You think she is overwhelmed right now?" Ichigo asked as Uryu looked at his in slight disbelief. Ichigo could sense the hint of disappointment in his eyes as Uryu sternly stared into the ambers.

Uryu brought his finger up to rub at his right temple, "Kurosaki, she is the IT girl of this year, an over 'night sensation' as the newspaper stated. Many people want her as many people want to be her."

Ichigo sighed as he wasn't aware of how the media and popularity could have affected her. After all, no one has heard the name Kuchiki Rukia two days ago… when Ichigo became very famous he was overwhelmed with the perks yet downsides that came with it. All the other models wanted to be a model so there was no issue, but Rukia… that wasn't her dream. This isn't what she truly wanted, she didn't ask to be famous like the others.

"I know we have given our team the weekend off but you should talk with her. You should see how she is feeling as she may be overwhelmed with the world talking about her," Uryu noted as his head nodded towards the phone.

"Fuck, I guess I should ask her for lunch or dinner then. Meet at a restaurant-"

Uryu cut him off, "And create more overwhelming publicity? You are quite the chef as I remembered in college Kurosaki; cook her dinner at your home to avoid the paparazzi." Ichigo grimaced as he eyes his friend. What the hell is he trying to get at? Can't he just make a simple phone call and be done with it?

Uryu rose from the couch as he headed for the door, "I am going to start to view my e-mails as I am sure we received many. Call her Kurosaki." Uryu turned and revealed a hidden smirk as he closed the door behind him.

Ichigo continued to stare at his phone, he brought a hand up and ran it through his soft hair. He hated when he has to slick his hair back, he love it when he can just have his hair run free although many have complimented on how it always looks good even when he doesn't touch it.

"Fucking Uryu…" Ichigo muttered as he picked up the phone and searching Rukia through his favorites, as they were in contact a lot before the debut. It didn't mean anything. He hit the green button as he was sure she probably didn't sleep well as she was pacing about the small apartment of hers, feeling overwhelmed by the world's thoughts of her.

"Morning Ichigo."

He could hear the rasp in her voice as his call had clearly woken her up from her sleep.

"Were you sleeping midget?" He scowled.

"Of course I was! You didn't bring me home until late in the morning," He could hear her groan into the phone.

"I thought you would want to talk right now…" Wasn't she freaking out?

"I rather be sleeping…"

"You aren't overwhelmed by the news of your debut? Weren't you up all fucking morning?" Ichigo asked as he was not pacing about his office waiting for a response.

"I showered and passed out. I haven't had time to think about anything…can I go back to sleep now?"

So she wasn't overwhelmed as Uryu had made it seem. Ichigo remained silent as he felt he didn't need to invite the small model over for dinner as there is nothing that needed to be discussed now. Everything can wait until Monday.

He leaned back against his desk and crossed his arms as the phone was between his ear and shoulder, listening to her soft breath as if she had fallen back to sleep. The breath were calm, relaxing… he closed his eyes as he brought his fingers to the bridge of his nose.

"Yo midget," Ichigo said a little louder into the phone.

He heard a sigh of aggitation over the phone at the use of the nickname she didn't like, "Ichigo..?"

Ichigo almost didn't catch his name that flowed breathlessly out of her mouth, the warmth of his cheeks became hotter as he thought of her being snuggled in a huge comforter hugging a pillow in her small arms. Is that how she will sound every morning if he woke up next to her? Calm and relaxed…

"What are you doing today? I want you to come over to my place for dinner, there are important things that need to be discussed," His voice was a little dry as he was tightening his abs for her response. No, this isn't a date… it's for work. Two things that are entirely different.

"…Tomorrow is okay? I have to meet with my brother today…"

Ichigo noticed her voice was more alerted, he expected her to fight him for having to spend time with him like she always does on her days off, "Ah, yeah that's-tomorrow." He squeezed the bridge of his nose tighter as he knew he sounded so fucking idiotic right now.

"Tomorrow is fine, I will pick you up midget," he let out a breath of air he has been holding as he hung up the phone and toss it onto his desk.

This is not a fucking date.

…

Rukia decided to leave her long hair down as she grabbed a pair of shorts and a simple pink t-shirt. She felt exhausted today but knew she had to talk to her brother sooner or later. A feint knock sounded from the door as she ran over and opened the door, smiling as she looked up at her Nii-sama.

Her brother was always the most attractive one in their family as he was always the most stylish one and very pristine. He wore his shoulder length hair back in a pony as his black fringe flowed down his chiseled face stylishly. His dark jeans and white polo were wrinkled free as he was always picky of his attire. Byakuya opened his arms to allow his little sister to run into him and hug him very tightly.

"Nii-sama! It's been so long since I have seen you… you always look so good!" She released her hold from his neck watching him give her a smile before returning his face to that cool, collected, yet stern look.

"Rukia, I would say let's go out for a late lunch but there are a bunch of reporters outside of your apartment building," He brushed passed her as he placed a brown paper bag onto her coffee table, hearing Rukia shut the door. "This is Chinese from your favorite spot down the street from here." He turned and crossed his arms staring at her, "Now or later?"

Rukia bit her lip, "Now…"

"Why did you fail to mention to me that you are going into modeling? Let alone with Soul Society?" Byakuya voice was soft yet crisped with enough anger. "What about writing? Did Abarai put you up to this Rukia?"

She continued to bite her lips as her brother spit out many questions at her. She knew he would be upset, she doesn't keep many secrets from her brother because he was the one who had taken care of her after their parents had passed. Her mind was so wrapped up in wanting to be the best in spite of her former boyfriend and Tatsuki that she completely forgotten about the one that mattered the most in the end.

"Nii-sama, I can explain…" How can she explained? That her brother was right about Ren and the fact that he did indeed not remain faithful to her. That the years she fought with her brother on said subject, the amount of effort she put into defending the love of her life. Byakuya never cut her out of his life even if he disagreed and battled with her, trying to raise her in place of her parents. He always had supported her.

Rukia didn't notice her brother was already sitting on the floor with the to-go boxes opened on the table and a pair of chopsticks in his hand, which he was holding out to her. Letting out a remorseful sigh for the conversation that was about to come, she grabbed the chopstick from his hands and sat across him, on the other side of the coffee table. Grabbing a rice carton she started to grab a broccoli.

"Ren didn't put me up for this… it was my own doing…" Rukia quietly said as she nibbled on the broccoli.

"I don't quite understand why you will choose this route Rukia. You were enthralled in becoming a writer and I helped paid for your schooling so you can become one, yet I had to find out about your new career choice by reading the morning paper," he complained as he opened his own rice carton.

"I apologize for not telling you but I have been so damn busy with everything that it just… slipped my mind…" Rukia looked down as she wasn't feeling very hungry at the moment, she glanced back up looking at her brother gaze as her own eyes, rimmed with heavy tears.

"He cheated on me Nii-sama…" She clenched her chopstick in her hand as she felt a wave of relief washed over her, finally admitting to her brother. A horrified look came upon her face as she watched Byakuya slam down the chopsticks and got right up with a ferocious look upon his face.

"I fucking knew this would happen. I warned you about him Rukia," he gathered his cellphone, wallet, an keys in hand as he was heading towards the door.

"Wait! Nii-sama where are you going?"She grabbed his muscular arm and tried to stop him from putting his shoes back on. She withdrew a small amount as he turned and stared dangerously, his eyes were burning red.

"To go fucking kill him of course, for him making a fool out of the Kuchiki name. He deserves a visit from me I won't allow him to get away with making you a fool when you loved him practically your entire life!"

Rukia winced at his bellowing voice; she knew he was always protective over her but when it comes to her crying over a boy…game over.

"Please Nii-sama…" Her tears were streaming down her face. "I am over it. I had taken care of it now so you don't need to worry but please…don't hurt him…"

Byakuya face contorted in anger as he listened to his little sister defends the red hair bastard, "Don't hurt him? Rukia, he hurt you! The manipulative snake hurt you so he shall pay for his actions." Byakuya looked defeated and blew out an angry breath as he watched Rukia erupted in tears. He pulled her into his arms as he tried to comfort him as best as he could, "I help raised you to be stronger than this. Stop crying over an imbecile. You are an intelligent woman and you need to show him his regrets." He pat her back as he allowed her to calm her tears.

"This brand name polo is very expensive and I am sure ruined from your rather disgusting mucus you are blowing into the pocket."

Rukia couldn't help but laugh as she pushed out of her brother's grasped and punch him hard in the arm, "You can just buy another since you are so wealthy with your business. I am broke!"

"Not anymore, you aren't," He stated as he went to sit back down at the coffee table. "Why are you a model Rukia? Wouldn't you be avoiding models after what your model boyfriend has done?"

Rukia took a sip of water from the kitchen and brought over a glass for her brother, setting it down near him, "Well I was an assistant as you last new for the owner of Soul Society. I am not quite sure how it happened but one thing led to another and before you know it – I debuted." She wiped her eyes and nose with the napkins that came with the Chinese take-out.

"However, surely you must have seen Abarai have you not? You work in the same company; I don't understand why you would want to see him?" Byakuya ate his rice gracefully while picking a beef out from the container with his chopsticks.

"Well that's the thing Nii-sama, for some reason every time I see him… I feel stronger. It's hard to explain," Rukia said as she took another sip of water to rinse the rice down.

Byakuya sighed, "I suppose. Let me warn you Rukia, if I see him. He will pay dearly."

Rukia sighed as well knowing she could not stop her brother, "How is Hisana doing? When is my nephew due?" She remember recalling her brother and his wife, announcing the news of their expected child, she was so thrilled she cried for hours that their family was getting larger. Her brother loved Hisana so much that it brought joy to her heart seeing her brother so happy. Also the perks of him being married was he was too busy to infiltrate and questioned her life twenty four seven. He has become softer as a being because of Hisana.

"She is still in her second trimester but everything is going smoothly. You should stop by tomorrow and say hi to her. We have not seen you since you graduated from college."

Rukia gave him an apologetic look, "Sorry, I have to meet my boss for dinner at his home tomorrow." Shit. She knew he will take it the wrong way especially when his eyebrow furrowed.

"Dinner? Why is he hosting dinner at his home? Do you not think it's quite…intimate?" He watched her face grimaced at her slip. "Wait I have heard about him, Kurosaki Ichigo right? The billionare play boy? Please do not tell me you have fallen for another one."

Rukia shot him a look, "This is completely professional! He is an asshole Nii-sama! I will never date him as I can't stand being around him as he is so self-absorbed and such a prick to me. He never listens and he is just so damn bossy! He likes to play around with me and is such a stubborn fool as well! I can't ever understand his demeanor; all I know is he just likes to argue with me!"

Byakuya narrowed his eyes as she watched her vent to him about her boss, but the look on her face showed just how passionate she was when it comes to her complaining about him. Her face was red, not sure if it was from the actual true annoyance or from the blushing. He has not seen her like this before.

"Dear God, you like him," Byakuya bluntly said as he watched her eyes widened. "You are attracted to your boss."

"W-What? N-No I don't- I mean how can I?-He is my boss- I don't- He's my boss! " Rukia was completely lost for words as she stared at her brother in disbelief. How dare he made such a bold statement, it was so absurd!

"Rukia, I never seen you so riled up when talking about someone. Not even when it comes to Abarai… you like your boss. This is a complete school girl crush you have going on about you," Byakuya chuckled as he watched his sister face twist in a confused anger. "I didn't know you were going on a date tomorrow. I really hope you consider that he is a play boy. You know exactly what you are walking into as Abarai was the same."

"It's not what you think, I don't like him like that. I am not stupid to be walking in a relationship right now especially when my career kicked off last night!"

"I just want you to be careful, that's all Rukia. I am more so disappointed you didn't call me right away when you ended your relationship with Abarai. How did you even overcome the heartbreak on your own?"

"I wasn't completely alone, I had help with some friends…" Rukia thought of how Ichigo and Uryu helped her move on and to become more independent on her own.

"Just…be careful. Please," Byakuya soften his eyes. "You looked beautiful last night by the way." He watched Rukia gave him a sweet smile as she picked her chopsticks back up and continued eating. Byakuya knew something must be up with Renji and her as the pictures from her debut, she looked obviously close to her boss. Something in Ichigo's face while staring at his sister…something more was there but he didn't want to say anything about that due to he wanted to protect his sister from the sleazes that were out there.

Rukia didn't say anything more as they ate in silence. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she didn't realize something so big until her conversation with her brother.

She likes Ichigo.

To be continued...

"Are you tired Rukia?" Ichigo said as he glanced over at the small girl still wearing his jacket in his passenger seat?

She glanced back over in his direction as she stifled a yawn, "A little bit. I don't think I am more tired then yourself."

"I am fine," Ichigo casually said even though he was very tired. He continued to drive, leaving the city but made a quick detour through his hometown and stopped at a small quaint doughnut shop before shutting off the engine.

"What are you doing?" Rukia asked as she peered out of the windshield glass reading the doughnut shop sign. She watched him get out of the car to which she unbuckled her seat belt and stepped out of the car herself,walking over to Ichigo leaning against an outside counter window smiling.

"Little Ichigo? Is that you? My how handsome you have grown! I haven't seen you in ages my dear boy!"

Rukia approached the window to see a small elderly woman wearing an apron behind a register, smiling up at him. Her beady eyes turned and enlarged when she saw Rukia approaching.

"Oh my,is this your girlfriend? She looks absolutely beautiful! What are you doing out here so late?" The old women put her hands on her hip as she stared at the both of them demanding information.

"Granny, this is my friend Rukia. We just came from a party and would like a late night treat,' Ichigo smiled as he watched the elderly woman face lit up in a smile.

"You always only see me when you want something to eat," The granny blushed when Ichigo winked at her.

"Because you make me a special doughnut every time. They are the best in the world."

She lightly smacked his hand, "You always make me blush little Ichigo!"

"Granny, why are you up so early in the morning working?" Rukia asked as she watched a smile erupted on the elder woman.

"This place is my pride and joy, I thought I was going to have to close down but someone bought this place from my land lord and given me the deed in my front steps, it's in my name even! I don't know who it is but I am so thankful...This is me showing how thankful I am..." She wiped a tear before going back into the shop to work on Ichigo's request.

She came back quickly handing both of them warm doughnuts filled with ice cream. Ichigo reached into his pocket to pull out his wallet but the old woman scalded him.

"Don't you dare pay me a dime child, you need to save your money if you want to take your girlfriend on a proper dinner date next time!"

Rukia and Ichigo blushed at once as the old woman gave them a smile and peck their cheeks through the window before she hurried them away. They walked back towards his black Porsche.

Rukia looked up at Ichigo, "Is she your grandmother?"

He shook his head, "No, we just call her Granny. She has been here forever and always gave us treats for free, she still thinks I am a child however and doesn't know I own my own business. I bought this shop from her prick of a landlord, as you can see she doesn't know it was me. I want to keep it that way."

Rukia continued to stare at him in awe as he shared something so intimate with her. A crack in her heart healed the more she has gotten to know him.

Hello Bleachers!

I am so sleepy when writing this today.

Been terribly busy but managed to write a chapter out for you.

I know Byakuya was OOC.

I also decided not to make him so mean…didn't want to add too much drama.

I hope you still like it and liked how he came out.

Next chapter will be their dinner/date!

Thank you as always for reading my story. Leave your love/hate down below!

Until next time.

Che: You are right, Toshiro makes a small debut as well!

Anon: Well I hope you didn't already checked today for the update hahaa. Thank you for your support, I hug you a thousand times!

Keira14: It wasn't too bad with all of them together. ;3

Hinataellis: I am sorry for it being short. I just don't like writing long chapters… Ichigo patience is running a tad bit low..

StariChanx: :) I hope you like him in this story. I didn't make him cold like in the manga as it would be just too much for her I feel. I had to have him know about Rukia and Renji… the conversation between them helped me lay out some foundation and thoughts of how Rukia felt. I feel you will know how brotherly he is now!

Guest2: I am glad I answered a lot of questions. Most of you guessed it but I just had to wait until the perfect timing. More IchiRuki next chapter love.

Vampirelover: Thank you for your love as always!

Nuno-oki: XP You always crack me up. Hahaha, thank you for that.

NieveDrop: I haven't thought about the outing yet. I am not sure how I will do it but I have a small idea. It will come eventually. There will be more of a back story with Orihime and Aizen as that isn't over yet so it should clear up a questions as well. Just know, Aizen hates being second place.

Thanks for Gin, I forgot about him honestly… Ichigo did feel guilty. You will see why later!

Hirako Shinji: Finally? I thought I updated pretty fast…hahaha…..

Blissbeat: Thanks for your sweetness as always! Oh, the mysterious umbrella girl.. Who is she really? Haha. Uryu is the ultimate match maker here. He really truly value his friendship with Ichigo.

Althatsyu: Girlfriend, I thought you were mad because you left me with I am just Super. So I knew something was up! Hahahhaha, I was like did she cut herself with the knife? Bahaha. Then I read the gigantic review from gues and knew it was from you and none other!

Grimmjow…gosh should I add him to the mix since you said it? Maybe he will be a super model tooo! I don't know if I have room for all this drama in my story. I will make sure to warn Orihime because remember..you have the knife. OUCH! I don't know Kubrick… or maybe I do?

It wouldn't be the last of the umbrella…all I can say now. He is losing his patience with the little bunny right now but when the time comes (ahem the strawberry lemonade) it will be very special but maybe too steamy for me to write!

I watched AHS so I know exactly what you are talking about! Thank you for your song recommendations and your love my best girlfriend! I do need to rest my brain now… this is too much typing in one day for me! Hugs, hearts, kisses, and love!

Anonymous101: Happy Belated Birthday! I hope it was a fun one for you!

Guest: I am glad many people noticed the umbrella scene and it's importance! Thank you for reading!

The Vampire Queen Lori: Hi Lori! The tension is very strong…just the way I like it! And it's fun to rile you all up!

Giraffe: I know the feeling of binge-ing. I think that is why I am exhausted. Renji/Rukia will be in a couple chapters or so. It's not the end of them yet…

Jobananasan: Tatsuki is planning…but will she be the one to? I knew someone would eventually point out about the favor, your thinking is logical so hopefully Ichigo sees it that way too. Gin a good guy? I haven't thought of him being good… or even in this story. I will play with the idea.

Guest3: I honestly haven't decided yet but you are right about one thing…you have to wait patiently. ;3

Onlyluna: I like writing out their scenes too. It's like a breath of fresh air from the drama.

Yoko90: Thank you love! Cute pudding!

Achalida: He got himself in the hole… he needs to be the one to get himself out.

A Smiles Façade: Thank you for your review! It is full of love and I am so thankful for it! You aren't creepy, I am not going to report you hahahahaha. I give you hugs instead.

DBZFanGXCC: Hi hi! This review makes me go HFIHFSHFLFHLFJL. Bunch of 'H'. Haha, I hope you got a manicure to fix your poor nails! You will find out why he was likethat in the rain soon. It's was very hard on him that day. I wanted the readers to feel how sad he was…the pain.

Uryu love life… It's a slow progress but. I think some of you see where it might go. MAYBE. Renji… he did that to save Rukia, kissing Tatsuki. I felt bad for both him and Rukia when I wrote it out because it pretty much sealed the deal and Renji is now in a super bad spot.

The lemon, I get it now! I add a little bit here and there to satisfy those cravings for the readers but the actual one I agree with you. I want them to both be in it and not for the lust but we will see. I change my mind a lot when I write! Thanks love, I always appreciate your review.

Katsuko: I messaged you so you wouldn't freak out until I updated but the story has a long way to go!

Jade Roji: It is his fault… Thanks for your review!

Ichirukiafan234: Hahahahaahaha so blunt! Sex,maybe soon. Update. Now.

Fer: I am relieved too.. it was a lot of thinking and timing for the layout of the debut. Took a lot out of my small brain. Their plans…oye…

Xoxoxo-iheartkiwi