Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or its characters, Tite Kubo does. I am simply writing this for my own amusement.

Chapter 12 I'll take care of you

Rukia woke with the coming morn. Opening an eye she peered across her now sunlit room. Grunting, she rolled over and was about to burrow back into her soft covers when an unusual noise met her ears.

Sitting up, she titled her head and listened hard. There it was again. A kind of muffled hacking sound. Now fully awake, and more then a little curious, she slipped a long dressing gown over her night clothes and moved to her door. She stopped when she heard it again, this time coming from back in the direction of where she had been. Moving back she suddenly stopped at the door leading to Byakuya's room and, now a little worried, pressed her ear to the door. Her eyes widened when she heard it again, this time much louder and now she knew it was the sound of coughing.

Tapping on the door, she called his name and when no answer was heard she carefully pushed it open and stuck her head in.

At first she was surprised to even still find him in his room, as he was usually gone already, but now he stood, looking very disheveled, leaning on his dresser.

Rukia, now alarmed, hurried to him and, ignoring his protesting, turned him around to face her. Dark sunken eyes and fevered skin met her surprised eyes. A deep wheezing cough suddenly had him turning away from her, which finally left him holding on to the dresser again with shaky arms.

"Byakuya, your sick!" she exclaimed, her voice full of worry.

"I don't get sick." he wheezed back glaring at her, his eyes feverish.

"My butt, you don't," she muttered moving in close. She ignored his feeble protests, moved his hair from his face, and placed a hand on his forehead.

"Your burning up!" she exclaimed. "You are not going anywhere but back in bed today."

"Don't be foolish, we have the meeting with the elders today."

"It will be postponed. You can't see them like this," she replied her voice firm.

"Rukia-"

"Byakuya Kuchiki, you are not leaving this room today! You will get in bed and stay there even if I have to force you!"

He stared openly at her. Never before had he heard her talk this way to him before. This was the firm unbending voice she often used with her close friends. Despite his extreme annoyance at being ill, he couldn't help but smile inwardly.

Weekly he shuffled back to sit on the edge of his made bed. He watched curiously as she, instead of going to him, turned and headed to his closet. Rummaging around it she at last turned back to him carrying a pair of dark blue flannel pajamas.

"Here," she said tossing them at him. "I'm going to inform them about the meeting change. While I do so, put those on and go straight to bed."

He looked up, about to protest, but at seeing her firm expression, standing with her hands on her hips, he knew it was no use.

Nothing drove Byakuya more crazy then the feeling of being useless, and that's exactly how he felt at that moment. Sitting on his bed he grunted in annoyance as he tried to do the buttons up on his top. His head just felt so woozy and dizzy and he couldn't concentrate or see straight, and even the simple movements of his fingers was an effort. Never before could he remember being this sick. He knew it was from the time in the forest, and most likely caused from being wet in the cold wind, but at the time he was confident that he wouldn't come down with anything… after all he could count on his fingers all the times he had been sick and he'd still have a few fingers left.

Cursing under his breath as the tiny button slipped from his fingers yet again he didn't hear the door open.

Now dressed in a pale pink kimono, and with her face washed and hair combed Rukia truly felt ready for the day. She had informed the head servant that Byakuya was ill and that he was not to be disturbed. The good-natured elderly man had offered to send for the 4th division but Rukia politely declined, preferring to go there herself if needed. She did however give him instructions about the meeting. His face whitened a bit but he told her it would be done. She also got him to inform the cook that she wanted some simple chicken soup made. Having grown up in the poor part of town Rukia had developed a firm understanding that sometimes the best thing to get over something was simply healthy food and a good rest.

It was however, with surprise, that when she opened the door and found him sitting on the edge of his bed struggling to get his shirt buttoned. Hurrying over to him, she slapped his hands away and slowly did it up herself. He refused to look at her the whole time, to ashamed in his own weakness to look her in the eyes. He did look up when he felt her small hands reach up and brush his loose hair from his forehead.

"Your getting worse," she said, her hand on his forehead.

He blinked and wavered, finally falling forward in a dead faint. Rukia gasped as his weight landed on her. Grunting, she reached over and pushed back the covers. Carefully she managed to guide his unconscious weight into his bed. He wasn't a big man, more tall then anything, but Rukia wasn't large herself and his weight was almost to much for her to manage. Gasping and slightly disheveled Rukia finally stood and stared down at him, now laying comfortably among the soft sheets. Knowing how deadly a high fever could be she quickly made up her mind.

Hurrying from the room, she dashed down the halls. Word had spread among the staff of his condition and whoever she passed stared at her with a worried expression. Not paying any attention to them she practically flew out the front doors and hurried as fast as she could to the 4th division.

"Oh, Miss Rukia, Welcome!"

Rukia gasped andbent down, resting her hands on her legs, and breathed deeply trying to regain her breath. Looking up she smiled at a cheerful Hanatarô.

"Hello, Hanatarô. Is your captain around I need to speak to her urgently."

"She's rather busy at the moment, I'm afraid. Is it urgent?"

"Lord Byakuya is gravely ill and has a high fever."

"I'll inform her right away." he said and hurried out of the room.

Rukia stood, breathing easier, and glanced around the clean, bright room.

"A high fever you say? What temperature?"

Rukia looked up as the pretty dark haired captain swiftly moved into the room, Hanatarô at her heels.

"I didn't check," Rukia admitted ruefully, "I couldn't find a thermometer, but I know enough about fevers to know that his is getting dangerous."

"Where is he?" she asked from where she was digging around in a drawer.

"In his bed, in the Kuchiki manner. He wanted to go to work but I wouldn't let him."

"That man would work till he dropped if he had it his way." muttered Unohana. "At least he did what he was told, for once. You two must be getting along well if you have that power over him"

Rukia looked up in surprise but Unohana was already heading out the door witha bag in her arms. Hurrying Rukia found herself almost having to run to keep up with the tall captain.

Unohana seemed to know where she was going as she entered the Kuchiki halls. Servants bowed respectfully as she passed but she paid them no heed. Right now her patient was all that mattered. Rukia still trotted after her amazed at the powerful aura the captain gave off.

Unohana did however allow Rukia to gain the lead and waited for her to open Byakuya's door, he was a noble after all and sick or not he still required respect. But as soon as she beheld the man laying still unconscious in his bed all reserve went out the door.

Hurrying to his side she touched her hand to his head for only a moment then opened her bag and began digging through it.

"Can I help?" Rukia asked rather timidly.

"Yes, please bring some tea, and fetch Captain Kuchiki a fresh pitcher of water."

Tea? Rukia knew very well that she was simply given these tasks to get her out of the room and out of the captains hair. Sighing, she left the room and headed to the kitchens.

Unohana was just emerging from the room when Rukia returned carrying a large tray.

"Oh good your back." said the 4th division captain.

"How is he?" Rukia asked the concern obvious on her face.

"He has the flue, and a bad case of it. I left his medicine on the dresser with instructions. He must be given it every two hours while he fever lasts. Once its broken continue giving it to him every morning and night for the next three days. He should be back on his feet by then. But until that time make sure he stays in bed and gets plenty to drink. However, if something happens and he gets worse please send for me right away."

"Alright, thank you for your help Captain."

"Its what I do, dear."

Unohana hesitated for a moment and Rukia looked on in curiosity when the captain took the tray from her and set it aside.

"May I speak to you privately for a moment?" she suddenly asked, her voice quiet.

"Of course, " Rukia said now more then a little curious. "We can talk in here."

Unohana followed Rukia in to Byakuya's private library which sat across from his room. Turning to her, the 4th captain wasted no time in coming to her point.

"How long has Captain Kuchiki had your powers?"

Rukia gasped.

"About two weeks now," Rukia finally said after her surprise had stilled.

"You're probably wondering how I knew, correct?"

Rukia nodded.

"Its nothing special, but I've always had an extremely great sense of people spiritual powers even of they're hiding it. How are you managing?"

"I'm alright," Rukia admitted. "But it was really strange at first."

"I can only imagine," said Unohana quietly. "Can I tell you a story?"

Rukia looked at the woman in surprise, before nodding.

"I've never told anyone this before, and I never thought I would, as I never imagined this situation would come up… but now that it has." Unohana looked straight at Rukia but without really seeing her.

"When I died and made my journey to the soul society I was as normal and powerless as any common person. I had no skills nor spiritual power. I did, for some unknown reason, have knowledge of traditional healing and the skills associated with that. Because of those skills I was soon recognized for that and in a very short time had become known as a skilled and very successful healer. All of the local towns people came to me with their sick and injured, to scared to seek out more powerful individuals with spiritual healing powers.

"So one day I was quietly tending my shop, I sold herbs as well, when two men came in carrying a third. He was badly wounded and when I inquired about the nature of his injuries and where he had acquired them both men quickly backed out of my shop simply saying that they just found him on the side of the road and knew nothing more.

"Before I even began my exam I knew it was a loosing battle and that no matter what I did he would die. So preparing some herbs that would ease his pain before the end I suddenly felt a presence. Spinning around I found myself face to face with a cloaked and hooded figure. I immediately demanded his or her name but received no answer. Instead I watched in suspended shock as the stranger raised a gloved hand and, pulling off the glove to reveal white skin, he reached out and grabbed my wrist. As soon as its skin touched mine I knew. It was the mans zanpaku-tô. In a last desperate measure to save his life his own zanpaku-tô had abandoned him for me in order for me to acquire the skills to save its previous owners life.

"Knowing at this point I had no other choice I embraced the offered power and without even knowing how pushed the darkness of death from the strangers immediate future.

"Minazuki had simply explained that this technique was 'The Last Desperate Act' and was to remain a secret. However, I was blessed with a kind and patient zanpaku-tô and it just so happened that his skills were in the healing line. And he was powerful, oh so powerful. I had never in my life felt such strength flowing through my veins. I felt as if I had never lived before this moment. It was pure strength.

"The stranger woke the following morning. I had placed him in the spare bedroom, and I knew as soon as I heard the heart wrenching cry that he knew. Stumbling into my room he stared at me with pure and utter hatred. Wielding I knife, I never knew he had, he came at me, demanding that I return his powers (which he knew I had) or he would kill me. I tried to explain that it wasn't possible and he dived at me, the knife aimed at my throat. I dodged and was about to flee when something stopped me and I looked back. Minazuki had reformed and was now blocking the strangers way. The pure rage and despair I saw in that mans eyes will forever haunt my dreams.

"Finally giving one last cry of defeat he bolted from my store. They found him three days later with a cord around his neck hanging from a tree."

Rukia stared her eyes wide. Never would she have believed it if Unohana hadn't have said it herself.

"I've never told anyone the story of how I gained my powers…and if they knew…"

"Its alright," Rukia said quietly. "I won't tell anyone."

Unohana stared at Rukia. Her eyes filled with understanding sorrow. "I had hoped to never hear of that happening again… and yet here you sit."

Rukia looked down at her hands. "I don't blame Byakuya."

Unohana said nothing. She just sighed and finally stood, bringing Rukia up with her. Taking the younger woman's hands in her own she stared directly into her eyes.

"You love him don't you?"

Rukia nodded not even surprised that the woman had figured it out.

Unohana sighed. "The feelings you must be feeling now… child, I don't envy you."

"We found a way to regain my powers-"

"Hush, yes I know of that." Rukia's eyes widened this time again. "I was told by Minazuki after I had finished examining Captain Kuchiki just now. I guess he felt sorry for me, the shock of seeing Byakuya with two zanpaku-tô was almost to much…. Do you think its going to work?"

"All I… we ..can do is believe," Rukia replied.

"Good luck, child," Unohana whispered then she did something Rukia would never have believed. The Captain of the 4th division pulled her close and hugged her.

"Do one favor for me?" she asked when she had let go of Rukia.

"Anything."

"Make sure I get an invitation to the wedding."

Rukia smiled. "You didn't even have to ask.," she said.

Unohana smiled and swept from the room, her white captains coat swirling around her.

"Remember, dear, give him a dose every two hours until the fever breaks."

Rukia nodded.

"Oh yes and before I forget. This is for you." she handed Rukia a small pill bottle. "Take one every day until he gets better. It will prevent you from catching his sickness."

Rukia took the bottle and slipped it in her clothing.

"Thank you," she said smiling.

"Good luck," Unohana said and then she was gone.

Rukia returned to Byakuya's room only moments later. He was still out cold.

Moving to the dresser she picked up the bottle left by the Captain. Reading its label she fetched a teaspoon and gingerly approached Byakuya's bed.

He was laying on his side with his slightly tangled hair splayed out across the pillows. Sitting on the bed beside his head she gingerly unscrewed the bottle. Taking a whiff her eyes suddenly went crossed at the pungent smell. If it tasted only half as bad as it smelled poor Byakuya was in for a world of pain.

Carefully pouring the dark orange liquid into the spoon she, oh so carefully, moved it to his lips. Byakuya, even in his sleep, must have sensed this gross concoction heading his way as he suddenly turned his head and rolled over, away from her.

"Damnit!" Rukia cursed as the teaspoon spilled and its contents splashed across his black hair.

"Oh, crap!" Rukia exclaimed her eyes wide. Byakuya was so gonna kill her for that…and already the pungent odor was beginning to spread.

Knowing that she had to try again she caped the bottle then gingerly crawled over him to the other side of the bed, where she found that his face was buried in the pillows.

Grumbling, she placed her hand on his shoulder and another on his chest and tried to push him onto his back. His unconscious body flatly refused.

Gritting her teeth she tried again this time succeeding but failing at the same time when, in his sudden movement, caused her to loose her balance and fall over him. Pushing herself up, with a slight pink tint to her cheeks, she stared down at him.

"You're such a trouble maker," she hissed as she reached for the bottle and spoon. Sitting up, and yet to realize that she was sitting on his stomach, she was about to try pouring the liquid into the spoon when she realized was a bad position it would be for him to have liquid shoved into his mouth. Knowing she was to weak to get him into a sitting position she suddenly had a brain storm. Leaping from the bed, she dashed next door to her room where she scooped up the giant Chappy plush. Returning she, after much grunting and pushing, managed to get Byakuya up into a sitting position with the Chappy behind him leaning up against the headboard.

Grinning in success, she refilled the spoon and slipped it between his slightly parted lips. Despite herself she sighed in relief when she saw him swallow, although when she spotted the sticky matted spot in his hair that happy feeling faded a bit.

Sighing she placed the bottle on the dresser, beside a clock, and carefully removed the plush from the bed. Carefully, she moved him backdown in to a sleeping position. Putting her hand on his head she frowned in worry. He was still so hot and his breathing was still coming hoarsely. Sitting on his pillow, with his head beside her she stared down at the man she loved and her heart trembled. Suppose he didn't get better? What if something happened and Captain Unohana had it wrong? And what if…?

Rukia looked away. She was being foolish. No way would Byakuya die of something as simple as a flew… but still…

She suddenly realized that she need to do something. Sitting here with nothing to occupy herself was just making her worry for nothing. Glancing down at him again, her eyes fell on his sticky hair. Her eyes brightened.

Leaping from the bed, she dashed to the bathroom. Finding a small bucket she filled it with warm soapy water then returned with a soft wash cloth and a few towels.

Lifting his hair she placed a towel beside his head and his hair over that. Dipping the wash cloth in the water and wringing it out so it wouldn't drip all over she gently began washing the medicine from his hair. The darn stuff was sticky and incredibly suborn but eventually she began to see it slowly disappear.

Finally after sometime she sat up in success. Rinsing out the wash cloth she then gently bathed his face and neck, cleaning the sweat from his flushed skin. Studding his features she watched fascinated as his long black eyelashes twitched when his eyes moved under the lids.

"Gods, he's beautiful," she murmured staring at his perfect features. With those looks and his money he could have had any woman he wanted… and yet he stayed single and alone… only choosing her after fifty years of isolation.

"What did I do to deserve you?" she whispered still staring at him.

Moving from the bed she retrieved the towels and carried everything back to the bathroom. Returning she scoped up his brush and moved to sit beside him again. Placing his head in her lap she began gently brushing out his hair as best as she could. Looking up at the clock she found that he was due for his medicine in about a half hour. Smiling she simply continued to brush his hair, even after she had found and eliminated every tangle.

The second dose of medicine went better, and to her great relief she found that his temperature had gone down just a bit. It was not a lot, but it was a start at least and it made her feel much more relieved.

To pass the time she briefly went down to the kitchens to see if lunch was ready. Practically the whole morning her stubborn stomach had continually reminded her that she had skipped breakfast.

Returning with a heaping tray of simple, yet healthy food she sat it down on his bed and proceeded to gobble it down.

So it was, with her mouth full, when she felt the mattress shift. Looking up she gasped in delight when she saw his eyes flicker open.

"Do I smell food?" he asked groggily.

"Yesbh" she exclaimed her mouth full.

He glanced up at her, his eyes squinting in the light. She swallowed

"Are you hungry?"

"Not particularly. I'm just thirsty."

Rukia didn't need to be told twice. Retrieving a glass from the tray she poured him a full glass of water. Moving over to his side she gently helped him up into a sitting position. Protesting at first Byakuya finally allowed her to hold the glass to his lips where he drank thirstily. Finishing the glass Rukia offered asecond which he drank to. Finally he fell back on the bed with a sigh.

"You can not believe the bad taste that was in my mouth." he muttered darkly.

Rukia sweat dropped. "I can imagine," she whispered.

"I had the worst possible dream as well. First someone was trying to poison me, then a giant pink rabbit attacked my head, and finally an evil monkey midget tried to drown me." Byakuya shuddered. "It was awful."

Rukia sweat dropped a second time. An evil monkey midget?? She found she didn't like the sound of those words.

"What time is it?"

"Noon," she answered. "How do you feel?"

"Like shit," he murmured, rolling over.

Rukia's jaw dropped.

Regaining her composure she glanced over at the clock and winced. Two hours had passed again.

"Um Byakuya, its time to take your medicine again."

"What medicine?"

"Um, well I was worried, so I went and got Captain Unohana to come and take a look at you. She said you have this badflew that's been going around and so she left with instructions for you to take this medicine every two hours until your fever goes down."

Byakuya rolled over and stared at the bottle that Rukia now held.

"Fine," he simply said and watched as Rukia pored the liquid into the spoon again.

"I don't think it tastes very good," she muttered wrinkling her nose.

"I've probably had worse," he muttered lifting his head and accepting the spoon.

Rukia watched with growing concern as his eyes abruptly closed and a shudder ran through his body.

"Water," he gasped.

This time he drank three glasses before he was satisfied.

"That woman. I will never forgive her for this." he muttered laying back down. Rukia, who stood confused, watched as he quickly fell asleep.

The afternoon passed slowly and uneventfully. Rukia spent sometime out in the garden. The day was sunny and warm and leaving the door open to his room, let in a wonderfully refreshing breeze. Bloom remained by her side while she sat outside, content to sit on the wood planking that served as a step to the garden. Byakuya continued to sleep in his bed, rolling over now and again. Every two hours Rukia managed to give him his medicine again without waking him, as he needed his rest. And so the hours passed.

Her mind continually wandered by to the story Unohana had told her. What a strong woman she had been to bear all that pain. Rukia only hoped she could be that strong one day. Oddly enough, she now felt much closer to the woman. She had not had to much contact with her in the past, only the occasional visits to the 4th division when she was sick or injured, and even those times it was usually the staff that she saw more. Sighing she placed her chin in the palm of her hands and stared across the garden.

---

About a hour before dinner Byakuya woke again. Rukia had just managed to get him up into a sitting position again, with his back leaning against her giant plush, when his eyes flickered and opened.

"What-"

Rukia quickly slipped the spoon into his mouth before he could protest. Although she was quick with another glass of water.

"Are you getting hungry yet?" she asked after he finished gulping the water down.

Byakuya was about to reply but was stopped when his stomach grumbled, answering for him.

"I'll take that as a yes. Do you feel any better?"

"Maybe a little," he admitted.

She pushed his hair back and felt his head. Still hot but not burning as before. She didn't notice him close his eyes and smile slightly at her touch.

"Hmm… well you woke right on time. The servants just brought supper."

"Well it does smell good," he murmured starting at the laden and covered tray. Rukia's eyes followed his look.

"Oh, no. That's mine, this is yours," she said revealing a second covered platter.

"What's-"

"Chicken noodle soup!" she exclaimed removing the silver cover. She blinked in surprise when he suddenly wrinkled his nose and looked away.

"I don't like chicken soup," he replied.

Rukia stared then her gaze hardened.

"Well you have to eat it," she simply said and it was not a question.

Now it was Byakuya's turn to be surprised.

"Chicken noodle soups is one of the best things you can eat when your sick. Its healthy and nutritious and besides who in their right mind wouldn't like it when their not feeling well?"

"Well me for one," he muttered.

"Byakuya Kuchiki you will eat your soup, and I'm going to sit here until you do so!"

He stared at her firm and slightly angry eyes. Knowing it was no use, he reached over to the bowl but his hand was promptly smacked away.

"what?-"

Rukia cut himoff by suddenly filling the spoon and quickly shoving it in his mouth. He simply glared at her with his famous Kuchiki Death Glare™ but it had little to no effect on her.

So poor, sick, Byakuya had to sit through the very undignified procedure of her feeding him soup (as she refused to let him have the spoon to feed himself) that he cared very little for.

"If anyone ever saw me now…"

"They would have to deal with me," she simply said.

---

The rest of the evening was spent quietly. Byakuya remained awake for the most part, secretly watching Rukia from where she sat in the doorway to the garden. The evening breeze was causing him to shiver a bit but he didn't want to disturb her. She was sitting staring up at the sky with Bloom resting comfortably in her lap. Wanting to join her he gingerly slid to the edge of the bed. Laying down his head didn't feel to bad but as soon as he pushed himself into a sitting position the world swam and began to spin again.

Cursing his own weakness, Byakuya squeezed his eyes closed in an effort to make the world right itself. Opening one eye he was momentarily relieved to see that things had indeed stilled. Gritting his teeth he carefully placed one bare foot on the carpeted floor.

---

Rukia sat, lost in her own though, and stared up at the sky. The evening was pleasantly cool yet the warmth caused from Bloom sleeping in her lap was enough to keep the chills away. So lost in her thoughts was she, that she didn't hear Bykauya's unsteady footsteps. It was only when he suddenly sat down beside her that she noticed his presence.

"What are you doing up?" she exclaimed at seeing his pale (more then usual) face.

"You looked so peaceful sitting here, so I thought I'd join you," he said quietly staring out at the now setting sun.

"You shouldn't be up yet," she scolded reaching her hand up to test his temperature. He scoffed and moved her hand away, instead placing it in his, his fingers intertwining with hers. His other hand went around her waist pulling her against his side. She smiled slightly, despite her worry, and leaned her head on his shoulder.

"Thank you for taking care of me," he finally said.

She smiled and closed her eyes. "Your not recovered yet," she muttered.

Byakuya sighed.

---

Sometime later Rukia helped him get to the bathroom on very unsteady feet.

"Are you alright in there?" she called.

A grunt from the other side of the door was all the answer she got.

She paced back and forth while she waited for him and every time she heard a noise she jumped in surprise. Finally Byakuya emerged, looking more then a little queasy. His skin was sickly white and he had broken out in a sweat.

"I told you not to get up before!" she scolded, helping him back to his bed. Byakuya answered with another grunt as he settled down into the bedding. Never before could he remember being this sick and physically tired. Rukia watched with concern as his eyelids drooped.

"Oh, don't go to sleep yet!" she exclaimed hurrying over to the dresser that held his medicine.

Byakuya glared heatedly at the bottle when she approached him.

"What did I do to deserve this?" he croaked after the foul liquid ran down his throat, making him gag.

"I am sorry, but it can't be helped."

He grunted in reply. Looking up he watched as she moved to her own door. It was late and she was probably going to her own bed to sleep. Opening it she stopped when she heard his voice.

"Rukia come here for a moment," Byakuya said quietly.

Looking up in surprise, she saw Byakuya's serious expression, before hurrying over to his bed side.

"What's wrong?" she asked, the concern evident on her face.

He motioned for her to come closer, which she did, crawling up on his bed to sit beside him.

She squeaked in surprise when he suddenly wrapped his arms around her waist, pulled her down with him, and supposedly fell asleep with his head nuzzled on her chest. Rukia blinked in surprise and felt her face heat a bit. Blowing his hair from her mouth, it had fallen all over her, she stared down at his sleeping face. Reaching up she gently began running her fingers through his hair, combing it gently. She paused when he murmured contently and she felt his arms tighten around her pulling her tighter against him. Resting her chin on the top of his head she stared at the clock on the dresser across the room. In only two hours she'd have to give him his medicine again. Knowing very well that she couldn't allow herself to fall asleep she lay there warm in his arms with the weight of his head on her breast and stared out the window.

Despite Byakuya's sickness she found this moment quite enjoyable. The warmth of his body soon had hers comfortably warm as well, and to a person that was always cold, was a lovely change. It was a change that also left her feeling increasingly sleepy. The lovely smell, his smell, of cherry blossoms gently caressed her bringing her ever closer to dreamland. Plus the oh so comfortable bed didn't help matters either. So in the end, all these obstacles soon beat her plan of staying awake as, ever so slowly, it became harder and harder to open her eyes.

The following morning Rukia woke well after the sun had risen. Byakuya in his weakened state was still sound asleep. The first thing she noticed was how comfortable and warm she was. The second thing she noticed was the wet spot on the shoulder of her robes. She smirked. Byakuya in his sleep, was drooling on her and for some silly reason she found that highly amusing.

As she woke more fully she distinctly became aware of the feeling of his body against hers. His arms were possessively around her waist and she could feel the weight of one of his legs draped over hers. They must have had unknowingly moved around a bit at night for his head was now nestled in the crook of her neck with the tip of his nose brushing her bare skin.

Instead of blushing madly as she had done in the past, she simply smiled and rolled up on her side now facing him completely and snuggled closer, wrapping her own arms around his slender waist. What a lovely way to wake up in the morning, she thought as his breath warmed her collarbone.

She was almost asleep again when she felt him stir. Sighing in disappointment, she loosened her hold on his waist and waited for him to wake fully. While she waited she suddenly lifted a hand and, shifting his hair aside, and placed her hand on his forehead. Much to her relief, Rukia found that Byakuya's fever had subsided. He was still warm but not nearly as a badly as the previous day. Removing her hand she found herself staring into slightly blurry dark eyes.

"Morning," she whispered hugging him.

"Good morning," he whispered thickly.

"You thirsty?" she asked.

He nodded and she slid off the bed.

---

A few hours before noon a servant arrived informing them that the elders had agreed on a new date for the meeting; six days from today. Byakuya sighed in relief at hearing that. He glanced at his bedside table. There were still things he had wanted to do before that ill fated meeting and this gave him the perfect chance to do just as he had wished from the beginning. So maybe, just maybe, getting sick wasn't all that bad. Oh sure the medicine tasted like a skunk that had been beaten to death by an old cabbage, but at least he had more time to spend with Rukia. He had seen even yet another side of her, and in a single day, their relationship had strengthened even more.

"Lunch is almost ready," she said moving to his bedside. "Do you feel well enough to eat regular food, or would you like some more chicken soup?"

The look on his face almost made her giggle.

"Get me a fresh kimono please, I have to get out of these." he said sitting up.

Rukia glanced at his wrinkled flannel pj's for a moment then turned and moved to his closet.

"Which one do you want?" she asked staring at the rows of clothing.

"Any one is fine," he answered wearily.

Rukia stared at them a moment before choosing a simple black one.

Not bothering with the buttons Byakuya simply pulled the pajama top over his head. Tossing it aside he took the kimono from a slightly flushed Rukia. Tilting his head (and causing his hair to fall over a bare shoulder) he stared at her with a bemused expression.

"Your still not used to seeing me like this?" he asked, amusement obvious in his voice.

"It's n -not that…You-"

Byakuya smirked and suddenly reached for her, pulling her close and causing her face to indeed go crimson.

"You slept with me when I was like this, remember?"

That sentence didn't help poor Rukia's embarrassment.

"That was at night," she finally managed to whisper. "It was dark, I couldn't see you clearly."

"What difference would that make?" he asked.

"You have no idea."

"Pardon?" he asked now generally confused.

"Your to sexy for your own good!" she shouted pulling away from him, her face now the same shade as Renji's hair. "You have no idea what you do to me when your like that…" Backing up she kept her gaze on the floor.

"I'll be in the dinning room. Come when your ready," she said and then she was gone.

Byakuya sat on the bed, slightly stunned and very confused. Did just having his torso bare effect her that much?? Glancing down at his own skin, he finally shrugged and pulled the black silk kimono over his bare shoulders.

---

Coughing slightly, Byakuya slowly made his way to his own private dining room. The room itself was nothing special, and he only used it when he was busy withwork, or was to tired to go all the way through the mansion to the usual dining room. This one was only two doors down from his bed room (and just on the other side of Rukia's bedroom door) but even that short distance had him panting for breath and in need of a chair.

Opening the door he immediately spotted Rukia, sitting calmly across from the only other chair at the small table. Straightening his back, as he didn't want to worry her even more about his condition, he carefully made his way to his chair. Although he suspected that Rukia had noticed the small relieved noise he had made when he was finally seated.

"Are you all right?" she asked.

"Yes, I'm fine." he answered.

She stared intently at him for a moment but then rang a small bell, signaling the servant to bring their meal. Normally she would have gone to get it herself, but she found that she simply didn't want to leave his side at the moment.

Rukia was pleased, however, to see Byakuya's face light up considerably when the meal was brought. At least his appetite was coming back.

Chewing her sandwich thoughtfully, Rukia secretly watched Byakuya out ofthe corner of her eye. In the twenty minutes she had been waiting for him to arrive (she was almost at a point where she was going to go and check up on him) he had managed to get himself dressed, washed (As she could smell the familiar scent of cherry blossoms wafting from him), and generally cleaned up to his usual standards, although he had left the Kenseikan from his hair again, which she secretly preferred anyway. Even so he couldn't hide his still sickly pale skin and the dark circles under his eyes. Byakuya still had a bit of recuperating to do before he was back to his old self.

They ate their lunch in silence, Byakuya was to hungry to talk much anyway. He had only just finished his chocolate pudding (Rukia had stared at his unusual choice for a dessert) when she suddenly produced that evil bottle of doom (or so Byakuya called it). After taking his medicine and drinking numerous glasses of water after Rukia, who had had an idea while she ate, suggested that they go to the comfortable looking room that now held their new television. Byakuya, who now felt a bit better with a full stomach, agreed and together the pair moved from the room.

---

Later that evening Byakuya entered the darkening room carrying a large bowl of popcorn. Personally he wasn't very fond of the unusual food, but Rukia seemed to like it so he did it for her. Truly he felt strange showing up in the kitchen and requesting the chief to make him some… that is, after he had explained how to make it.

Byakuya blew out a sigh and resisted the urge to smile (he had been doing that way to much lately and he feared it would become a natural habit again), at the thought of the poor cook diving for cover when the corn kernels had began to pop.

Those thoughts quickly died when he saw Rukia stretched out on the over stuffed sofa. She was wearing her white night kimono again and it had fallen back a bit leaving one slender snow while leg visible. He cleared his throat to announce his presence and she sat up and grinned when she looked up and spotted him.

Truly Rukiawas surprised when she had entered the room earlier. Apparently Byakuya had ordered more then just the T.V. from the human world. With the new comfortable furniture and elegant coffee table the (plus the huge flat screen T.V.) the room looked nothing like the rest of the mansion. When she had inquired on how he had managed to get all this stuff Byakuya had simply answered that he had his sources. She could get nothing more out of him. Although, at that moment, a thrilled Urahara counted his profits with a smirk on his face. Truly some nobles knew nothing of the current prices for human merchandise.

That afternoon they had just passed the time reading and in Byakuya's case, snoozing. After moving to the dining room for dinner, they had finally come to an agreement to watch another movie (and the first one in the Kuchiki mansion). By this time Byakuya was feeling quite a bit better and had even volunteered to get some snacks. It was the least he could do after all she had done for him. Upon his return he had found that she had figured out the T.V. already.

"What are you watching?" he inquired, setting the tray containing the popcorn and other snacks on the table.

"Just one of the few television stations you can get here."

"I wasn't aware that there were any television signals here."

"No, well not official ones. This is the only one I can pick up."

Byakuya stared at the T.V. then his eyebrow shot up.

"Isn't that the eleventh division's fifth seat?"

"Yep, its Yumichika Ayasegawa. I haven't been watching all that long, but I believe it's a show about makeovers and fashion. They randomly sneak up on people and give them surprise makeovers. It usually also involves Ikkaku knocking the victim senseless first, then recording the reactions they have when they wake up."

Byakuya stared at the T.V. as Yumichika's sparking face appeared on the screen.

"This time they managed to get their hands on their own captain. I suspect Yachiru was in on it as well, as she has made an appearance." Rukia said watching the screen. She suddenly gasped when the location switched to a slowly waking Kenpachi. The camera was at his back so the viewer was still unable to see the result. Although, even just from the back, Rukia was beginning to get a bad feeling about it.

Suddenly springing up, Kenpachi let out a roar and spun around. Rukia gasped and Byakuya's spiritual pressure flared.

Rukia had to bite down on her fist to stop the laughter as she shot a quick glance at a now very angry Byakuya. When Rukia had said that the show was about complete makeovers she hadn't been far off. Now with smooth silky black hair, hair that was now held up by fake Kenseikan, and with a white scarf that hung from his neck, Kenpachi turned and reached for his sword. Someone had even took the time to cover his facial scars with makeup, leaving his skin weirdly pale and smooth. His eye patch still remained however, no one was that ready for death to take them quite yet. Letting out an earth shattering roar he violently swore to kill all who were involved, before stalking out of the camera's view. To put it frankly he looked ridiculous and nowhere near to the perfection that was Byakuya Kuchiki, but it was painfully obvious of who he was supposed to look like…

Rukia winced when she felt Byakuya's angry spiritual pressure.

"How dare those fools mock me!" he growled.

"Where are you going?!" she cried when she saw him turn.

"To report them," he hissed.

Rukia blinked. "I highly doubt that Captain Zaraki will let them go unpunished, I can assure you that all those involved will be in pain very shortly. Besides your not fit to go out yet and you'll only end up making your self look the fool." Rukia's eyes widened even as she said those words.

"Byakuya, I'm sorry. I didn't mean-"

"You are right, Rukia. I'm sorry for getting worked up."

Byakuya shook his head, and made a mental note to inform the head captain later.

Rukia pressed another button and was about to put the disk in when the screen suddenly lit up. Staring at it for a moment her jaw suddenly dropped.

"Whoa, its coming in from Hueco Mundo!"

"We interrupt '1001 Reasons Why Soul Reapers Suck' to bring you this important message. Help support this local station by sending in a donation and well send you this amazing and authentic pair of glasses that was originally from the secret collection belonging to out deceased ruler Aizen! Apparently our dear and deceased leader had them from before he betrayed the Soul Society, and on occasion he would practice breaking them so when the time did come nothing would go wrong! Own these once in a life time collectable and at the same time help Hueco Mundo get back on its feet! For a pledge of and additional $100 you get the glasses and we will also include this 'Help find Grimmjow' T-shirt that features a built in kitty tail! Its stylish and trendy and at the same time it will help in our search for the lost Espadas! Call now, limited qualities available!

Rukia stared. "Now that's just weird."

Byakuya suddenly stood. "I must inform the head captain of this right away."

"Wait!" Rukia cried grabbing his sleeve. "Your still to sick to go out…and besides the captain is probably asleep by now. Besides didn't you already agree to not go out, and… I'd be lonely without you." she gave him her biggest puppy dog eyes.

Byakuya stared at her, before sitting back down.

"What movie are we watching?" he asked changing the subject. He didn't want to say anything but a headache was slowly creeping up, and he hoped a quite movie would allow him some rest and much needed comfort.

"Chappy, the Movie!" she squeaked, her face full of excitement. "I found it when Renji and I were out in the old districts."

Byakuya suddenly stood, his inner calm shattering. "I'm not feeling all that well. I believe I should be going to bed to recuperate."

"Nice try." Rukia snorted grabbing his wrist and pulling him back to the couch. "You were just ready to go out, so don't give me that I'm sick excuse! Where're watching it and that's that!"

Byakuya paled and slumped in the sofa. "How long is it?"

"Two and a half hours."

Byakuya simply prayed for a quick death.

Despite the absolute pain of having to watch a Chappy movie, Byakuya surprisingly found ways to amuse himself and pass the time rather pleasantly. Although poor Rukia, who was trying to concentrate on the movie and not miss anything, had to deal with an obviously bored Byakuya. She could handle him playing with her hair (and even braiding some of it) but when he began to lean over into her personal space and tickle her, she had to physically push him away. For her, at that moment, Chappy came first.

Byakuya settled back, his arms crossed, and glared at the pink bunny that bounced across the screen. He glanced at Rukia and watched as her eyes rose and fell with every bounce. Something stirred deep inside of him then. Something he hadn't felt in a long time…something very green and evil. Jealously. His eyes widened at the realization. Could he really be jealous? Of a cartoon character?! God, this sickness was affecting his head. That was it, it was just his sickness, because it wasn't possible for him, Byakuya Kuchiki, to be jealous of something as simple as a cartoon rabbit. No. It was just his sickness. That's what he kept telling himself anyway.

Looking at the clock he nearly gasped out loud. Only a fifteen minutes passed?! He needed something to distract himself and fast. He already suspected that nightmares containing fluffy rabbits would be coming, and if he didn't do anything fast he'd go insane.

Glancing at the T.V something suddenly caught his attention. Staring, he found himself falling into a trance of blinding swirling colors. His foot suddenly began tapping in rhythm to the obnoxious theme music. Glancing at Rukia he suddenly realized what he was doing. It was sucking him in and taking over his brain. He had to do something fast before it was to late! Looking around his sights fell on the only thing that could forcefully take thoughts of the evil that was Chappy from his head: Rukia.

He watched again as her eyes moved in rhythm with the cartoon. His eyes suddenly widened with understanding. Now he knew why she was this obsessed. Chappy had her trapped and she couldn't escape! It was had almost happened to him and now with that knowledge he finally began to understood her obsession.

Byakuya then made it his personal duty to rescue her from the evil that was Chappy the rabbit.

His now fevered and slightly delusional head (as it had come back without him knowing) quickly came up with the best possible solution to tear her attention away from Chappy. He would seduce her!

Glancing down he loosened his kimono, purposely wanting to show a bit of his skin, and inched closer to her on the couch. Reaching out he placed his had over hers and gave it a gentle squeeze. She didn't do anything.

Moving closer he wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close. Breathing on her neck and in her ear, he waited for a response but got none. Not giving up he suddenly tickled her neck with his hot wet tongue. This time she did take notice. Squeaking she jumped up and took a moment to glare at him for disturbing her before shoeing him back to his side of the couch.

But Byakuya (especially a sick and delirious one) didn't give up that easily. Slithering off the couch he moved behind it and snuck up behind her. Leaning over he placed his lips on her neck, while slowly pushing the kimono off her shoulder. He was about to trial wet kisses down that lovely bare shoulder when she absentmindedly pushed the fabric back up and shooed him away again.

Cursing under his breath he stood to his full height and surveyed the situation. Remembering what she had said earlier, an idea suddenly came to his head and he moved to sit on the floor right in front of her, his back to her and facing the screen. Sliding his arms out of his kimono he let the silky fabric slide off one pale toned shoulder. Byakuya then reached up and seductively ran his fingers through his shiny long hair. The light of the T.V streamed through his thin kimono leaving nothing about his torso to the imagination. Glancing up behind him he found that she was still staring at the screen, however a slight blush was now spreading across her cheek bones. He was winning.

"What on earth are you doing?" she asked forcing herself to not look at him.

"You knew I wouldn't like watching Chappy. I'm bored, so I'm trying to distract you."

"Well its not working," she said.

"Oh really?" he purred turning and moving up in front of her. She leaned back as he leaned in, and he watched her as her eyes widened when his kimono fell from his other shoulder. Leaning in farther he caused her to inch back until her back was right against the couch. Knowing she couldn't move back any farther he suddenly leaned in the rest of the way.

"I win," he whispered. He was so close that when he spoke those two words his moist lips brushed against her own.

She trembled slightly when he kissed her hotly. His fingers sliding around her waist and pulling her against his heated body. It was only when she felt his tongue brush against her lips, asking for entrance, that she regained a sense of her competitive side. No way was she going to loose to him!

Byakuya shuddered when she suddenly pushed him back. He lost his balance a bit and fell back to his side of the couch.

She stood, panting heavily, and glared down at him.

"You have not won." and she turned and plopped back down on the couch to finish her movie.

Byakuya stared at her, then at the evil rabbit still jumping across the T.V. Damnit, he was NOT going to loose to that THING!

Pulling up his kimono (he was still baffled that his show hadn't worked completely) he switched tactics.

Putting his hands around her waist he moved her so her back was facing him. She didn't even seem to notice, and as he moved her, her head smoothly turned keeping her eyes on the screen. Placing his hands on her shoulders he firmly began massaging her shoulders and back. He grinned when he felt her moan slightly, but even so her eyes remained on he screen, her jaw slightly clenched.

Working his way down her back he purposely kneaded that sensitive spot on her lower back. He watched with a growing sense of victory as her back suddenly arched and her eyes closed in pleasure. Victory was at hand and like a viper he struck.

In a blur of movement Rukia suddenly found herself pinned on her back with him straddling her. A smile of victory on his fevered face.

"Your making me miss my movie," she said staring up at him.

"Exactly," he said, his voice deep.

"I hate you," she said.

"No you don't." he replied smirking.

"Yes, I do."

"Then prove it."

She faltered and he knew he had won.

"Touch me," he moaned huskily leaning his head forward. His hair fell around her face blocking out everything but him. He grinned in victory as he felt her tremble under him then he pressed his lips to hers.

Rukia's world fell away as his scent and touch filled her world. Chappy was almost forgotten as she opened her mouth and tasted only him. His weight settled on her body and finally she simply couldn't help a moan slip past her lips at the full feel of him on her. It was hot, exciting, and new, and at that moment all she wanted was him. Damn the elders and what they would think, she wanted him now and to hell with what the future held. Gasping, she reached up and dug her fingers in to his shoulder and hair when he suddenly began trailing wet kisses down her neck.

Pausing Byakuya suddenly looked up at her. As if asking for permission. She smiled at him, and leaned in for a kiss.

It never came.

Opening her eyes she stared and gasped as he shuddered once. His eyes suddenly rolled up into his head and he fell from the couch to land sprawled on the floor. Rukia gasped and fell to the floor beside him, crying out his name. But he didn't answer. Byakuya Kuchiki was out cold, his returned fever having finally caught up with him. Oddly enough, it was the act of passing out that finally tore Rukia's attention completely from the Chappy movie. For as she ran from the room to get help to move Byakuya to his bed, she had completely forgotten that there was still a half hour left.

With an exhausted sigh Rukia finally crawled in her own bed and nuzzled down into her sheets. With the help of a couple very concerned servants they had managed to get Byakuya back into his now newly cleaned and fresh bed. He had regained consciousness for a few moments (long enough for Rukia to give him his medicine again) before he passed out again.

She sighed. Despite her act of ignoring his advances earlier she couldn't forget the feelings that stirred in her. His heat, the weight of his body, the taste of his mouth… it made her head spin just thinking about it. But more then that it was the fact that she didn't realize how sick he had gotten until he had physical passed out that bothered her the most. Had he (and Chappy) messed with her brain that much? That she wasn't even able to pick up on his highly unusual behavior, which should have told her right away that something wasn't right? A feeling of coldness spread through her body, replacing the warm fuzzy thoughts that held it before. She had let him down.

Rolling over, she made a promise then and there. Never again would she ignore him and never again would allow feelings of the moment to get in the way of common sense.

---

In the adjoining room Byakuya tossed and turned. Dreams, or rather nightmares, of giant pink bunnies danced and tormented their way through his head. Finally after what seemed like ages they faded only to be finally replace by pleasant dreams of his dark haired rescuer: Rukia.

Oh goodness. What can I say? While that last bit of craziness was fun to write (I giggled like crazy while I was writing it) I wasn't sure if I should leave it in or not. I finally decided to leave it, since I felt that the chapter generally lacked more humor then usual. Although, it makes me wonder, to all the Byakuya fan girls: How long would you last if Byakuya tried to seduce you? Lol. And for the record, no, Byakuya didn't get H1N1... Although he wasn't officially tested for it…. O.O

I also apologise for the spelling and grammar. I had some issues with FF and uploading it, and it did some weird things when I was doing my last proofread online. The spaces between some words kept disappearing. I went over it numerous times but it kept doing it... So sorry for that... and I hope its not to bad...

As always reviews are appreciated and a big special thanks to: AmyThePineApple, othchick11, Anonymous, Chisa, JollyBigSis, RarusuRinnu1310, and Amy who took the time to review last time. You guys keep me going, so thank you!! :hugs: