Okay Chapter 13 is up and running! Sorry this took so long! I have been busy with outdoor activities...unfortunately. It's the WORST for a hermit like myself. He, he. Anyway. THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE REVIEWS! Eventhough it didn't reach my desired goal...it was close! IT MADE ME SO HAPPY TO SEE THEM ALL! THANKYOU, I HOPE TO SEE MORE OF THEM IN THE NEAR FUTURE! I am going to do some shoutouts at the END of the chapter! WELL ANYWAY I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS CHAPTER. I KNOW IT'S A LITTLE SHORTER THAN THE OTHER BUT DON'T WORRY THE NEXT CHAPTER WILL BE MUCH MORE LONGER! ^3^
Chapter 13: Realizations and Departures:
Rukia POV:
It was lunchtime and Rukia paced back and forth on the rooftop, the script she received from Ms. Haineko bunched in her hands behind her back. Her forefinger and her thumb rested upon her chin expressing a highly concentrated look on her face. She had been doing this for past ten minutes and her friends began to get a little worried about her.
"Uh…Rukia?" Momo began, another piece of melon bread in her hands, "w-what's wrong…?"
Rukia came to a strict halt and looked upwards at the clear blue sky, breathing in deeply. Rangiku, Momo, Orihime and Tatsuki let out relieved sighs as it seemed that she had released herself from her own little world…
Until Rukia squeezed her eyes and let out a cry of frustration, startling them. She crouched down, grabbing her black locks with her dainty hands, bellowing, "HOW IS IT SUCH A NICE DAY WHEN THIS ATROCITY HAD TO HAPPEN!?"
Rangiku lowered her eyes, "damn, she needs to chill".
Orihime patted Rangiku's shoulder reassuringly, "please don't mind it Rangiku…Rukia's just a little upset about her role in the upcoming play…ha…ha".
Rangiku raised a brow, "mmm," she muttered as she watched Rukia mumble words to herself such as;
"Duty…Kuchiki…Damn Ichigo…Play…K-Ki—" Rukia squeezed her eyes shut and let out another aggravated wail.
Rangiku folded her arms and leaned back on the railing. It was interesting to see her usually prideful friend wallowing in such contempt misery. She smirked, "So…Rukia what's is this play you, Orihime and Tatsuki are doing and why are you so against your role?"
Rukia craned her neck upwards, blinking around for a moment before stiffening. Her face contorted in ire, she cried out before bending over and slamming her fist upon the concrete. "Snow White! It's…God damn Snow White!"
Momo perked up, munching on a piece of her melon bread, "Ooh! Sounds interesting! I love Snow White!"
Rukia heard this and glanced over to her, penetrating the face of death in her direction. Momo shivered and redirected her gaze elsewhere. Rangiku sighed and ran a hand through her amber mane.
"I don't understand what's the big deal is Rukia? I mean, I know you are definitely not afraid to publicly show yourself. So what's bothering you so much?"
Rukia had returned to continually smash the ground with her tiny fist so Tatsuki stepped in for her. "Ah…well you see Rangiku. Since Rukia's character is Snow White—"
"It is?" stated Momo.
Tatsuki nodded, "yes, yes…anyway, like in the story…in Snow White there is a Prince Charming and he is…uh…um," Tatsuki muttered, her speech failing.
Rangiku suddenly became extremely interested. "What? What? Who is it?"
Orihime scratched the side of her cheek, smiling wirily. "It's…Ichigo-San…"
Momo and Rangiku paused briefly before bursting into laughter. Rangiku had to hold onto the railing to support herself.
"Ha! Ha! Ha!" she chuckled between snorts, she wiped her eyes, "Kurosaki? You're kidding right?"
Orihime shook her head, "no…not kidding".
Rangiku and Momo froze. They looked over to Rukia who was groaning to the floor, her fists exhausted from repetitively hitting the concrete. They leisurely turned their heads back to Momo and Tatsuki.
"Oh my God you're serious!" exclaimed Momo, crumbs of melon bread escaped, dotting the ground.
Tatsuki nodded coyly and scratched the back of her head producing a timorous snicker. "Yea…" she glanced over to Orihime, "it seemed to be a set up from the beginning…wasn't it?"
Orhime nodded, cocking her head to the side. Confused expressions were exhibited upon Rangiku and Momo's faces. Upon noticing this Tatsuki waved them off with a hand. "Don't worry about it," she says. They all stole a glimpse towards Rukia who was now lying on her back, bringing the script down on her face as if trying to suffocate herself. It wasn't working as she was able to emit agitated moans every now and then. "That's why she's a bit…well…depressed at the thought that she and Ichigo-San have to kiss in the play…as if the role wasn't bad enough".
Rangiku and Momo's eyes enlarged in bewilderment. "K-KISS?" they both shouted, astounding their underclassman.
Orihime blinked a few times before giving a curt nodded, "ah…yes! I think Tatsuki and I forgot to mention that…" She gave a warm smile, "Ha…Ha…sorry about that you guys".
Rangiku beamed. "Oh!" she began, narrowing her ice blue eyes a devilish grin morphed upon her face. "So our little Rukia is going to actually kiss a boy and that boy no other than her dear rival…Ichigo-San…"
Momo's eyebrows creased with worry, she slowly stole another bite of her melon bread, savouring the sweet taste. "Uh…where are you going with this Rangiku?"
Rangiku straightened herself, popping her large chest out and crossed her arms. "Seems to me that Rukia is actually just worried she just might fall in love with the person she thought she hated the most. She may even then neglect her duties as a 'Kuchiki'…tut…tut…tut. Well…I agree with the other Seniors that they should just 'date' each other, seeing that they totally like one another—"
A flicker of fire burned in Rukia's stomach. She sat up abruptly, her face fuming! She narrowed her fiery blue irises and stood up, her balled fists shaking. It seems Rangiku had successfully forced her out of her melodramatic state. Orihime, Momo and Tatsuki took one step back out of the range of danger. Rangiku just smiled.
"L-Like him!?" she spluttered, she stomped her foot before continuing, "th-there is NO WAY that I would be dating him after that STUPID kiss! I mean considering that damn Ichigo! That's not even the WORST of it since I—" Rukia stopped, instantly calm. The girl's each raised a confused brow in her direction.
"…since I what? Rukia?" Orihime spoke, treading carefully since she didn't want to cause Rukia to have another rant.
Rukia relaxed her arms and faced her friends with a troubled look as she squeezed the script her hand slightly. The four of them stood motionless, breathless, as shock paralyzed their limbs upon seeing their small strong friend looking so…weak?
On the other hand, Rukia had just realised she hasn't yet told her closest friends that she was engaged to Ichigo…when that dawned on her an unsettling feeling grew in her stomach. She knew it probably would be really unfair for her not to tell them before the official announcement. They were her most trusted friends after all. They meant nearly everything to Rukia.
They have helped her so much since she met at the start of the year. She had known Tatsuki and Orihime a bit longer since they attended the same middle school but she usually kept more to herself as she focused on the company and her duty. But by meeting them they have helped her made feel more relaxed and free than restrained and bound by the Kuchiki name. Even when they met her, they never really cared she was the famous Kuchiki of the Kuchiki Cooperation. They really didn't.
Then, when she was around them, at first she built a wall around herself since back then she didn't want to create unnecessary relationships. But, once joining in their conversations she found it to be much more pleasing than anything she had experienced before! As the weeks went by, they would grow closer and ask each other more things about themselves. Most of the time it was just some really random info but as their personalities would kick in, by the end of their chat they'd all be on the floor laughing their heads off! Whenever Rukia had trouble balancing the company and her homework, they would pitch in and offer to aid her (even though most of the time it wasn't too helpful) but she appreciated it still. This was the same with the bad hair days, wardrobe malfunctions or even from pesky creeps. Rukia would always feel her heart warming up bit by bit around them.
As the months rolled on and being very close already, the sleepovers then came with the personal stories and embarrassing secrets. Rukia even admitted about how Byakyuya wasn't her real brother but had adopted her because of the promise he made to his lover, Rukia's deceased sister. The promise was to find her again as Hisana was forced to abandon Rukia when she was still very young. Transforming her into the dependable heir she was today. So, she is extremely grateful to him even though he isn't very tender towards her as her brother. Once telling the girls, Rukia was anxious that they would pity her. She hated pity. But of course they gave her sad looks…nevertheless they told her that they were happy that she shared something so precious with them. From that moment on, she placed her complete trust in them as her friends. Of course there were the arguments, the fights and the sob stories but through thick and thin, they have been there for her. So Rukia thought it would only be appropriate to tell them. She didn't care if Ichigo minded, she'd just have to admit it to him she told later on.
Rukia looked downwards towards her feet and fiddled with her fingers, suddenly feeling very nervous. She HAD to tell her best friends though. Breathing in deeply, she rose her head to them. "Guys…" she started off.
Momo, Tatsuki, Orihime and Rangiku glanced at one another before focusing on Rukia. They were very puzzled by her unpredictable behaviour.
Rukia's cheeks became rosy from embarrassment as she tried her hardest to utter out the words. This peeked their interest wondering what was going on.
"I-I have…something important to tell you guys—"
~Tin-ga-Ling~
An announcement over the school PDA was being made. The gruff secretary voice spoke, "Kuchiki Rukia and Kurosaki Ichigo, please come to the Prinicpal's office immediately…and that means now!"
~Tin-ga-Ling~
Signaling the end of the announcement.
Upon hearing that, they all sighed. Rukia glanced over to the rooftop's entrance way then back at them with apologetic eyes. "Umm…" she muttered, a lost look painted her features.
The four of them faced one another, nodded then turned back to Rukia.
Tatsuki grinned and placed her hands on her hips. "Man Rukia! In the middle of a rant then stopping so suddenly like a startled little rabbit, what's up with you?"
Orihime bowed her head to her and gave a soft giggle. "What's with that look Rukia? Now, go on the Principal's waiting. It's got to be something important, right?"
Rangiku scoffed and rolled her eyes. "The Principal is probably annoyed of Rukia and Ichigo-San's fight's all the time! But Rukia seriously, whatever you were about to tell us, make sure to tell us later. Got it?" she ended with a wink.
Momo nodded, "agreed!" She waved over to Rukia who was beginning to make her way towards the entrance. "Make sure to tell us Rukia!" Momo called after her, wafting her melon bread about.
Rukia smiled at her friends and nodded. She stood by the entranceway now and didn't feel so nervous anymore. But she promised herself to tell them and she will. "Don't worry!" she yells, "I promise I will tell you EVERYTHING!" With that, she vanished through the doors, disappearing from their view.
Rangiku, Orihime, Momo and Tatsuki sighed, anxious to soon hear from what seemed to be burdening news for Rukia. Tatsuki rubbed the back her head softly, "I wonder what that was all about?"
"I don't know. But from the look of Rukia's face, it's probably not very good…" responded Orihime.
"Well…we'll find out once she tells us won't we!?" Momo assures.
Rangiku sighs, lets go of the railing and stands beside them. She brushed her hands through her hair, lowering her ice blue eyes. "Mmm…I wonder what Rukia is hiding?"
Ichigo's POV
As his friends had noticed, Ichigo seemed to have a dark aura surrounding him, his face more glum than usual. He hadn't even started eating his lukewarm curry that Yuzu made this morning. However Ulquiorra and Renji seemed to know why though. Renji smirked as if he didn't have a care in the world, completely relaxed in the bustling cafeteria. On the other hand Ulquiorra just sat straight, munching on a pickle and soy sauce sandwich that Orihime made him the day before. Absolutely unaffected by its dangerous appearance. Despite that Uryu and Chad felt uncomfortable with Ichigo's unfamiliar demeanor. They knew Ichigo was never really the cheery type but he has never looked this depressed before. What's so wrong with him?
Chad turned to Uryu, nodding his head in Ichigo's direction. Uryu hesitated at first before giving an understanding nod. Facing forward, clearing his throat and putting on a cool face, he spoke, "Uh…Ichigo? What's got you so, um…down exactly?"
Ichigo raised his head begrudgingly. He stared at Uryu pondering his question before giving an exhausted sigh. "Class play…" he replied dully.
Uryu raised an eyebrow, "Hmm…judging by the fact that you're not really a 'fan' of bringing attention to yourself and by your behaviour…it must mean that you got some sort role in the play".
Chad decided to speak up, his voice as deep as ever. "Ah, so your teacher decided to do a play? Our class is doing an entertainment stand…what's this role you've got Ichigo?"
Ichigo's narrowed his doe irises in annoyed remembrance. He gave an exasperated sigh before replying, "…I got the role as…Prince Charming, practically a main".
"And guess what!" Renji's energetic voice rang.
Everyone shifted their attention over to Renji including Ulquiorra who was half-way through his sandwich. Uryu noticed some soy sauce spilling over the sides and swallowed uneasily. However Renji continued, his elbow on the table supporting his chin while his fingers tapped against the black marble eagerly.
"What is it?" Uryu questioned, removing his gaze from Ulquiorra's unappealing meal.
"The play we are doing is called Snow White!"
"The one where the girl bites the apple, falling asleep, only to be awakened by a kiss from a Prince…" Uryu widened his eyes, glanced at Ichigo's sour presence before paying attention back to Renji. "So Ichigo as the Prince of the play, having to kiss Snow White…no wonder he is so sullen. He has to kiss some girl—"
Renji lifted a finger before giving a smirk. "And not just any girl, it's no other than—"
Ichigo looked over to him with narrowed eyes. His tone prickly, "Renji…don't—"
Renji waved him off. "Don't get yourself in a twist Ichigo. They're going to find out soon anyway when they watch it!" Ichigo couldn't help but sigh at the truth.
Chad raised an eyebrow, you could only tell from the slight movement of his messy brown hair. "Well," he says huskily, "who is it Renji".
Renji sniggered and raised an arm dramatically. Ichigo grumbled disapprovingly. "Snow White is no other than our dear Kuchiki Rukia!"
Uryu and Chad fell silent.
"…Oh" Chad finally muttered after a while.
"Oh indeed…" Uryu agreed with upturned eyebrows. "Having to kiss the person being no other than your rival…that must be horrifying".
Renji laughed, patting Ichigo on back roughly earning one of his famous glares. "That's not all!"
"It isn't?" responded Chad.
Renji shook his head. "When our dear Ichigo here was handed the script by Ms. Haineko, she told the both of them have to play their roles professionally! Meaning, as the main love interests in the play they HAVE to act as lovers. Ha! Ha! So Ichigo here seems to have his hands full," Renji rolled his eyes. "More like overflowing".
Uryu crossed his brow. "Seems it's going to be a tough week and a half for Ichigo".
Ichigo sighed, looking up to his friends. "No kidding," he began, running a hand through his spikes. "I mean I've barely been able to smile for years! No matter how hard I try". Ichigo sighed, obviously troubled.
His four friends traded somewhat concerned looks as they wholly understood Ichigo's condition.
"So how the hell am I going to act like I'm in love as Prince Charming…?" Ichigo growled as an image of Rukia sticking her tongue at him popped into his mind. "…Especially with her". Ichigo sighed again and closed his eyes. "Damn…this is so bothersome!"
~Tin-ga-Ling~
An announcement sounded over the PDA. The gruff secretary voice spoke, "Kuchiki Rukia and Kurosaki Ichigo, please come to the Prinicpal's office immediately…and that means now!"
~Tin-ga-Ling~
Announcement ended. Ichigo looked over to his friends and gave a shrug. The cafeteria was silent during it and whispers erupted immediately.
"Probably in trouble with Rukia for fighting too much!" Renji snickered, "Principal's sick of it already".
"Seems so…" muttered Uryu. "Go on Ichigo. Just get it over and done with".
Ichigo nodded to his friends and lifted himself from his red leather, black wooden seat.
"Good luck Ichigo," spoke Chad, nodding, his mess of a dark mane bouncing.
Ulquiorra nodded, not saying anything as he crunched on a pickle.
Ichigo, his back to them, heading towards the cafeteria's exit raised an arm. He gave a lazy wave before leaving their sights as he exited through the double glass doors.
Well, well...what's going to happen at the Principal's office? WELL I HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS CHAPTER! I APPRECIATE IT THAT YOU READ IT AND I WILL BE EXTREMELY GRATEFUL FOR A REVIEW OR MORE FROM YOU GUYS! I WANNA KNOW YOUR OPINION PLS!
SHOUTOUTS!:
First the most longest and heart-warming comment I have ever received! Thankyou Imma Fox!
Imma Fox: haha! I'm so GLAD you were able to follow my advice on a previous chapter on how to post a review! Praise Kami-Sama! I'm surprised I got you addicted to this ship after reading my fanfic, it makes me happy anyway since they ARE my most favourite ship! As you said that you didn't want me to discontinue it, of course it won't be discontinued! I have a lot in store for those two...he, he, he...so please be paitient with me! But in advance I would like to apologize for incredible wait for each chapter. Also that last part nearly made me cry...thankyou, oh my god thankyou. You are such a kind reader thankyou.
Fer: Ha, seeing your review from ten days ago it made me extremely glad to hear it. Thankyou very much! I hope the prolonged wait hasn't made you stray away...^v^"
Reader: Thankyou and sorry for taking so long!
IMMA FOX: 3/15...4/15...? Now continue with the story. Ha! You're a blunt one, I like you, you're funny.
frenchreader: Thankyou for the review it was HIGHLY appreciated! If you are French you possess extremely good English!
michapoobear: You found it funny? MAN THAT'S SO AWESOME THANKS MAN!
Shizza24: Wah! Shizza! Just wanna say you are incredible! I totally support your Zero x Yuki ship! I am so happy you reviewed!
Hylla: You reviewed 3 times! I have a couple of ideas concerning those two don't you worry...THANKYOU FOR REVIEWING SERIOUSLY THANKS!
IarIz: You were the first one to review! Seeing your review made me so incredibly happy it's insane! I nearly cried tears of joy! Thanks so much man it means so much to me.
OKAY! CHAPTER 14 COMING SOON! IF YOU REVIEW IT IS HIGHLY LIKELY YOU WILL ALSO GET A SHOUTOUT LIKE THESE AWESOME PPL! THANKYOU FOR READING ONCE AGAIN AND I HOPE YOU WILL WAIT FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER TO COME OUT! LOVE YOU ALL!
~OTPIchiRuki3