CHAPTER 20
The next few days seemed like a daze to me. Nothing I did was done sincerely or with my full attention. I knew I was making my family and friends worry; they were giving me confused and worried looks at everything I do.
I didn't tell them off nor did I comfort them and tell them not to worry.
I couldn't feel anything.
Rukia was gone. Just like that.
Again.
I berated myself, trying to reason with my inner self as to why Rukia had to go, should go. I didn't even know her that well, aside from my younger years. I'd only talked and gotten to know her for only about a week. That couldn't possibly have made me depressed that she's gone.
But it did. And I hated the feeling.
~ x ~
"Urahara, he's looking bad."
"Yes. I've seen him a couple of times. Yoruichi-san also mentions it."
"..."
"This is because of Kuchiki-san's departure, isn't it?"
"Yeah. Most likely."
"I didn't know that she'd have such a huge impact on him."
"Neither did I. But they had been connected from years ago! Even if the boy had only just remembered her from his past memories, they are bonded. Either one will be affected if anything happens to one or the other."
"…I'm guessing that's how Kuchiki-san knew about Kurosaki-san's change in powers."
"You could be right."
"…It's like Akai Ito."
"Just like it. Probably is, don't you think?"
~ x ~
I tried to forget, but it just wouldn't get out of my head.
The soothing presence I had grown used to in such a short amount of time was gone now. And nothing could replace it.
I sighed miserably, gazing out of my window, watching the moon.
~ x ~