So what ? Two more chapters ? Mhm , I do believe there is just one more chapter after this and then the EPILOGUE ! Dun DUN DUN ! Yeah , the chapter after this one is kind of just a throw in , but it's for your viewing pleasure if you know what I mean(; So it'll be short and sweet , and then the epilogue will tie it all up ! Just get through this chapter and then the story is OVER :D It's going to be so sad hahaa , no not really(: I'll be starting a new story , maybe, after this so no worries ! Maybe…
Anyhoot ! On with the show !
Summary: Rukia stopped believing in love after a traumatic accident killed her lover, Kaien. But after years of avoiding human contact, a certain orange headed kid comes into her life and changes her view on this thing called love.
Warning: It's kind of sappy !
Disclaimer: NO !
"Stop it, Ichigo, you're not allowed to look at me like that while I'm still high on sleeping pills," Rukia whispered drowsily into her pillow as she locked eyes with the red headed young man sitting in the chair by her bedside. The nurses had come in only minutes after their little confession session and told Rukia that she still needed her rest because her body wasn't strong enough to be functioning properly yet. Which pretty much meant making out with Ichigo was too much for her poor little body to take. They drugged her and left, letting the pills handle the rest as Ichigo climbed out of her bed and sat by her side in the tiny wooden chair. It wasn't exactly the most comfortable thing in the world, but he had refused to leave her.
"Look at you how?" Ichigo mumbled, stroking Rukia's hand and playing with her diminutive fingers. Rukia sighed and closed her eyes for a moment before opening them again. The pills were doing their job a little too soon for her comfort.
"Like that," Rukia pointed weakly at his face, watching as his eyebrows scrunched up and he chuckled lightly at her sleepy expression. "Why are you looking at me like that?" Rukia repeated into her pillow once again. Ichigo's soft hand stroking hers was lulling her to sleep even quicker than the pills.
Ichigo stared at her for a moment, staring deeply into her unique coloured eyes and feeling like he could drown in them; he'd die a happy man. His own eyes grew sad and Rukia noted how he frowned deeply and his scowl deepened. She lifted an eyebrow and closed her eyes for another second before opening them again to find him looking down at his shoes.
"Ichigo?"
"Because I'm afraid that I'm going to look away, and you'll just be gone..." Ichigo whispered, blushing lightly as he stared hard at her pale hand. If she hadn't made it... if she weren't breathing at this very moment, holding his hand and staring into his eyes with those big turquoise coloured irises –he wasn't exactly sure how long he'd be able to hold onto his sanity. 'Mom, did you put this crazy girl into my life on purpose?'
There was silence for a long time and Ichigo looked up, expecting Rukia to be sound asleep and snoring, only to find her smiling and staring at him with so much love he felt overwhelmed. She shook her head against the pillow and sighed heavily with sleep.
"I'm not going anywhere, Ichigo," Rukia mumbled in a low voice. She gave him a reassuring squeeze of his hand and smiled lightly, slowly nodding off to sleep. Ichigo blinked before scowling again.
"And how do I know that?" Ichigo asked, shaking his head as if he didn't believe her and expecting her to jump out of bed and throw herself out of the window, falling to her tragic death. That's what she had wanted, wasn't it? How did he know she wasn't going to do it again; leave him wondering what went wrong, depressed, and hiding from the world? How did he know she wasn't going to take away everything he loved with a pull of a trigger, or a swig of alcohol, or even by the very blade of a sharp knife?
But when he locked eyes with Rukia, something told him that wasn't going to happen and he had nothing to worry about. There was just something in his gut, a churning in his stomach that rumbled his chest, vibrated his heart, and sent goose bumps everywhere until he was covered in them. Something clicked in his mind and it showed in his eyes, the glint of hope –a glint of something more than this; something more than what or who they were. It was something beyond them, a being more greater than anything or anyone either of them had ever encountered and Ichigo felt it at that very moment when his eyes connected with Rukia's and amber met violet –hazel met amethyst, brown met purple, those chocolate pools swarmed those beautiful mauve coloured orbs. The tornados clashed heavily with tsunamis and somewhere in there, a hurricane let loose and joined in.
It was that undoubtedly teasing feeling that crept up on him when he least expected it and settled itself in his stomach, kicking his gut, rattling his chest, pounding on his heart, and causing that niggling in the back of his head that just said "Yes".
Rukia smiled at him and it was that moment that he knew everything was going to be okay. Her eyes glistened for a moment with comprehension before she closed them and fought sleep. She squeezed his hand one more time and peered at him through her eyelashes.
"Because I have a reason to stay now," and with that, Rukia fell asleep to the sound of Ichigo's breathing and didn't awake until much later that night when the lights had been cut out and some Spanish soap opera was playing on the TV above her bed. The volume was turned so low, it was almost silent. The image was slightly blurry and gritty and for a moment Rukia wondered who would be interested in watching this, especially since she hadn't seen any Hispanics recently near her room. Well, she had been unconscious for awhile...
Rukia frowned and leisurely sat up, her bones cracking and popping, not use to being bent or moved in a long time. Her room was dark, only illuminated by the glow of the TV and the faint light coming from the crack under the door from the hall outside. She arched her back and felt it too pop and crack, and sighed when the tension she once experienced there was now gone. Aside from her top half being somewhat relaxed, her legs were still sore and felt heavy. Cautiously, Rukia raised one knee and cringed only slightly when it painfully popped and for a second she considered if it popped out of place. She felt through the sheets with her hands and made sure everything was okay. Slowly, she lifted her other knee and was happy that it didn't hurt as much when it cracked like the other. Twisting and rolling her feet around under the sheets, she listened as little crackles and pops sounded from underneath and before she knew it, her entire body was relaxed and at ease.
Except for her neck.
She always hated cracking her neck. It made the loudest popping noise and required her to lie down afterwards for a few seconds. It just made her feel lightheaded and slightly off balance to the point that she thought she'd fall over. But it was really bothering her now; she was so stiff and so uncomfortable.
Reluctantly, Rukia placed her hands in the position they needed to be in and without a second thought, twisted her neck in a way that caused her to gasp at the immediate woozy feeling she felt afterwards. She lowered herself down onto the hospital bed until her back was propped up against the headboard. Although she wasn't as rigid as before, her other side of her neck was still stiff as a board and needed attention. Rukia breathed in slowly and placed her hands in the position once again. Quickly, she popped the other side of her neck and listening to the crackles of her bones and swiftly fell back down onto the pillow as if she just ran a marathon, panting and breathing heavily.
"You know, you really shouldn't pop so many of your bones like that in one sitting?" The voice came from the corner of the room, in the shadows where only the silhouette of what looked to be a small girl with pigtails could be seen. She had a perky voice, high pitched and loud. Rukia, startled from the sudden voice, jolted in shock and gasped. How had she not noticed her before?
Rukia squinted at the figure in the corner, her heart beating fast in fright, which couldn't have been good considering her heart was still fragile to the touch. The figure stood and Rukia watched as she walked with grace -almost as if she were floating- to the end of her bed and into the dim light of the TV hanging over her head.
Rukia scowled at her, noticing her high pigtails and quirky smile as well as the strange orange nurse outfit she wore. Her face seemed familiar, but she wasn't sure where she had seen it before. Clearing her throat, Rukia slowly sat up straight, keeping her eyes locked on the intruder and her scowl in place.
"Who are you and what are you doing in here?" Rukia inquired the suspicious yet familiar nurse –if she even was a nurse.
The girl grinned and floated over to the light switch and flicked it up, causing the lights above to shine brightly into Rukia's eyes and brighten up the entire room.
Rukia squinted her eyes, feeling them water from the intense lighting.
"Oh, I'm sorry! Is this too bright for you?" The nurse asked, her tiny fingers lingering on the switch with a concerned look.
Rukia inwardly cringed and held her hand up to the light and narrowed her eyes to peer at the nurse who was currently burning her poor eyeballs.
"No, no it's fine –I'll get used to it soon..." Rukia grumbled, glaring at the nurse. "Now, who are you?"
The nurse smiled and held out her hand for Rukia to take, which Rukia only glared at and ignored.
"I'm your nurse for the night, Shanibu Marizaki!" Shanibu winked at Rukia as if this was a grand announcement, but the only thing Rukia felt was annoyed. She rolled her eyes and rubbed her temple, pondering on the fact that her chipper voice sounded weirdly familiar as well did that stupid wink. Maybe she reminded her of some celebrity in some recent film she went to go see. She briefly remembered the last movie she saw being The Orphan and shuddered.
"Do I know you?" Rukia asked, her face slightly pink from the strange question. Of course she didn't know the girl –she was a nurse! Rukia shook her head and closed her eyes. "I'm sorry, that was a dumb question-"
"Oh nonsense! There's no such thing as a dumb question!" Shanibu giggled and flipped back her dark brown pigtail, glitter sprinkling from it. Rukia's eyes widened and she looked up at Shanibu's dark brown eyes to see her giggling. "Oh, I used some... uhm glittery hairspray! It makes me feel like a fairy," Shanibu winked at Rukia once more and smirked at her dumbstruck face.
Why the hell did she seem so damn familiar?
"Anyways!" Shanibu declared, grinning and pointing her manicured finger up in the air as if what she had to say was really important. If Rukia weren't sick in the hospital she would've socked this overly happy girl in the mouth by now. "I'm your nurse for tonight because I was requested to watch over you from your boyfriend –the one with the orange hair (my favourite colour!) this really scary scowl, and he was extremely tall!"
For the first time since she had woken up, Rukia finally really looked around her and noticed that Ichigo wasn't there by her side. She scowled and stared at the chair he once occupied and wondered just what exactly was so important that he'd leave her. She mentally smacked herself for thinking so selfishly; as if she was Ichigo's only priority. She should've been lucky that he even showed up! Yet she still felt somewhat empty and disappointed that he wasn't there.
"Oh, don't worry, Rukia. Ichigo really wanted to stay, but he was kicked out..." Shanibu chuckled and looked pass Rukia's head as if remembering something funny. Rukia felt like she had read her mind, but pushed that thought away; she was often told that she could be read like a book.
Rukia looked up to meet Shanibu's warm dark chocolate eyes and felt herself feel instantly relaxed and somehow calm. What a strange feeling. It finally dawned on her what Shanibu had said and Rukia's eyes widened.
"What! He got kicked out? For what!"
Shanibu laughed and sat herself at the edge of Rukia's bed. Rukia scooted her feet over to make room, although she wasn't sure why she was so willing to do so.
"Well, he got hungry and so he went to the vending machine for a snack! But then the machine got jammed and took his money without giving him his treat... and well he started an argument with it and knocked it over..."
Rukia only stared for a moment before chuckling lightly and shaking her head.
"Of course he did..."
"Anyways, while he was getting kicked out, he kept shouting about how he wasn't going anywhere until someone watched over you while he was gone. And so, I was assigned!" Shanibu smiled happily and shrugged her shoulders, which shifted her hair and caused more glitter to pepper over her sheets. Rukia swatted away what she could.
"Uhm, alright well that sounds like something Ichigo would do, but I can take care of myself Ms. Shanibu," Rukia assured the nurse, putting on her best smile and nodding her head. She waited for a moment for Shanibu to get up and leave, but the bubbly brunette only grinned and shook her head while wiggling a long, dainty finger.
"Sorry, no can do! I was specifically told to stay with you no matter what," Shanibu smiled widely and pulled a small wad of money from her orange coat pocket and waved it in front of Rukia's face. Rukia scowled at the money and hesitated in slapping it away from her.
"Your little boyfriend paid me," Shanibu winked and got up from Rukia's sheets and almost floated over to the chart at the end of the hospital bed. Pretending to look through, her eyes skimmed over the little black letters as if she were actually reading. She hummed and cleared her throat, looking up at Rukia with a smile.
"What?" Rukia immediately shot back as if the smile was some type of insult. But Shanibu only smiled wider and shook her head with a light chuckle. "What?" Rukia repeated, a little more hostile than last time.
"I knew you'd survive this, you have a good heart Rukia…" Shanibu mumbled, smiling down at the chart again.
Rukia raised an eyebrow and fiddled with the sheets underneath her fingers. This nurse was starting to make her uneasy.
"What do you mean?" Rukia asked, her voice again not the friendliest. Shanibu only shrugged and puckered her thin pink lips.
"I mean, patients who usually drink to this extent don't normally make it. But your heart was strong and you pulled through –made those flat boring lines become, well, jagged lines," Shanibu grinned and winked at Rukia, making a strange feeling erupt in her stomach.
"Are you sure we've never met before?" Rukia croaked, realizing too late how weak and dumb her voice sounded as she spoke. Rukia's fingers clenched around her sheets as she glared at Shanibu –who only shrugged and flipped back her pigtails once more.
"You should be getting to sleep now..." Shanibu hummed, putting down the chart. Rukia shook her head and crossed her arms over her petite chest.
"Why?" She asked defiantly as Shanibu sauntered over to her side and placed her palm on the bed sheet. Rukia scooted away from her hand and scowled deeper, keeping her guard up –still skeptical of this strange woman.
"Goodnight, Rukia," Shanibu whispered, smiling and giggling as Rukia's eyelids disobeyed her and began to grow heavy.
"But wait, I just woke up!" Rukia protested as she tried to sit up, but with a tired yawn she fell back down and glared hard at Shanibu before feeling herself shut down. "Wait..." She watched helplessly as Shanibu shut off the lights, smiling and backing away into the shadows of the small room –engulfing her in the darkness. The Spanish soap opera hummed in her ears as she slowly faded in and out of consciousness. The dim light of the TV was the last thing Rukia saw before she herself was out like a light. Strangely, she felt a smile tugging at her lips as she finally fell asleep to the hum of the TV.
XxXxXxXx
"You're a dumbass!" Tatsuki shouted at her childhood friend, slapping him upside the head as he sat in front of her like an idiot and cringed, cursing as he held his sore ear.
"Will you stop hitting me already!" Ichigo shouted angrily, cupping his ear in his palm and scowling up at the she-devil standing before him. He should've known it would be a mistake to come over here. After getting kicked out of the hospital, he was still a little down –hospitals were never a happy place for Ichigo. The happiest he could remember being in a hospital was being there when his twin baby sisters were born, which didn't last long when the only minutes old Karin spit up on him and proceeded to cry in his ear. He was only three then and already knew that one would be trouble.
With nowhere else to go, he decided to head home –only to find out that Karin and Yuzu were still out of town for some school camping trip, and that his father (being his stupid-ass father) was nowhere to be seen and gone doing who knows what, probably at that park terrorizing the kids again. And yes, although he loathed his father at that moment for not being home, the dumbest move was on his own part for forgetting his key inside and expecting the door to be unlocked. But of course, his father would never forget to lock the door if he was out –but oh yeah, he could forget to inform his only son that he'd be gone for who knows how long. Where could the damn man even be? Ichigo had his car for Christ sake, did he walk to terrorize kids at the park?
Nevertheless, Ichigo stood for about ten minutes outside his house, pounding on the door and wondering why no one was answering before it dawned on him just where everyone was. He even considered the fact that his father was indeed inside and laughing on the other side of the door as he listened to his son yell for someone to open up. He wouldn't put it past him.
Ichigo wasn't a very patient person, so immediately after realizing his problem, he called Renji first to see if he could come over because he had nowhere else to go at the moment. Renji's reply?
"Sorry man, Tatsuki just sent me this wicked picture of her in her new boxing uniform and I'm kind of busy...admiring it... yeah uhm so maybe next time!"
Ichigo wish he could've counted all of the grunts he heard over the phone, but figured that very thought was just too gross. And since when did Tatsuki take up boxing? And why the hell did Renji need all freaking day to "admire" the damn picture? And why the freaking hell did he even answer the phone while he was doing that!
Ichigo sighed and called up his next option –surprisingly he thought of Orihime before he thought of Tatsuki. He knew Tatsuki would yell at him if she found out why he got kicked out of the hospital in the first place and he just wasn't in the mood. Besides, didn't Orihime still need some comforting? But when he called, he only got the voicemail, which was almost a shock because Orihime always answered when he called. In fact, he usually only got a chance to hear the first ring before she'd pick up with a chipper "Hello Kurosaki-Kun!"
She must've been busy.
Sighing in defeat, Ichigo finally decided to call his worst nightmare and best friend. Strange combination.
When she picked up, the conversation went something like this:
"What do you want, Strawberry?"
"Is that how you always answer your phone?"
"Nah, just when idiots call me,"
"Oh haha, you think you're soooooo funny, donthca?"
"Yes, in fact I do. Now, did you need something Kurosaki?"
"Geez, you always get right to the point! Can't we ever just talk about life?"
"What the hell do you want Kurosaki? I'm texting Renji and I'd like to proceed with that!"
"Yeah well, don't worry about holding him up –he's keeping himself well entertained,"
"What?"
"Nothing, I'm coming over, okay? Bye!"
"Wait, Ichigo no! I'm not dressed!"
"I've seen you naked before Tatsuki, get over it –you don't have a butt."
"...You really want to die don't you...?"
"Well it's true..."
"Shaddup! And don't come over! I won't answer the door!"
"Who says I'm using the door?"
And with that, Ichigo hung up and proceeded in walking to Tatsuki's house with his usual smug smirk and confident stride in his step. He just needed something to take his mind off of Rukia and everything that had happened lately. He just needed some good fun and a decent conversation with a decent person –so why the hell was he going over to Tatsuki's house again?
He could hear her blushing over the phone at the mention of him seeing her naked before. It was nothing special, in fact it was a total accident and if he could take it back he would. They were about 16 at the time and the three of them –Renji included- were studying together for some dumb history test they all knew they'd flunk anyways. Renji went downstairs to get a drink of water –maybe juice, he wasn't so sure- leaving Ichigo and Tatsuki alone. Yes, that sounds romantic and everything, but really anything that has to do with Tatsuki cannot be considered as romantic.
Tatsuki was laying on the floor, going over a study guide she held above her head as Ichigo sat up in her bed with a textbook in his lap. Sounds like nothing's going to happen right? Well, hey, you're right! It was when Renji came back upstairs with his water –it might've been juice, still not sure- and tripped over his own backpack and spilled the liquids all over Tatsuki and her study guide. That was probably the first time Renji had ever been thrown out a window.
Anyways, to get on to the point, in her fits of anger, Tatsuki had totally forgotten who she was in the room with and proceeded to peel off her sticky clothes –still screaming about what an idiot Renji was. It wasn't until she was pretty much butt naked (only her socks remained) that she finally turned around to see Ichigo on the ground, bloody nose, red face, and rolling on the ground laughing so hard he was sure he had just peed himself. He pointed at her and threw his head back in laughter, gasping for breath as he wheezed about her non-existent butt. That was also the first time Ichigo had ever been thrown out a window.
Smirking at the memory, Ichigo approached his best friend's apartment complex and noted how there was a small sign in her window written in black sharpie, "ICHIGO DO NOT COME IN" Of course he had told her he wouldn't use the door, so like the gentlemen he was, he climbed the fire escape and broke into the window Tatsuki didn't expect for him to go through.
"What the hell, Ichigo! Get out!" Her voice had shrieked at him when she went into the kitchen to find him squeezing his way into the tiny sink window.
When he had finally gotten in and noticed that she indeed was walking around the house in her new boxing uniform –tiny red shorts and a black sports bra- he laughed again and pointed out again how she had no butt. Blushing and fuming mad, Tatsuki put on a tank-top and sweat pants and sat Ichigo down on her bed, slapping him up across the head and yelled at him for breaking into her apartment. Stupidly thinking that was a good time to tell her about why he was there, Ichigo explained the situation –which only earned him another slap across the head.
"What the hell is wrong with you! Don't you know better than to knock over vending machines!" Tatsuki yelled, grabbing her phone from her dresser as she glared at him. Ichigo rolled his eyes and flopped down onto his back with his arms spread away from him. "Especially in a hospital!"
"Whatever, you know you would've done the same thing," Ichigo yawned, watching in the corner of his eye as Tatsuki's fingers tapped each key lightly and she smirked before sending the text. She looked back up at him and her light expression disappeared almost instantly.
"Yeah, but I wouldn't do it in a hospital!" Tatsuki barked. Her phone vibrated in her hand and she flipped it open with a smile, her eyes scanning the message. Ichigo almost envied the fact that she was texting her boyfriend; Rukia didn't even have a cell phone, he could never text her gooey lovey dovey sweet nothings with hearts and smiley faces –well actually, that wasn't so bad now that he thought about it.
Tatsuki typed her reply and sighed as she pressed send. Looking up again, she scowled and sat on top of her dresser.
"Ichigo, why do you always do this?" Tatsuki asked, looking at him with a hard expression. There was an uncomfortable silence for a minute before Ichigo finally sat up and scoffed.
"What're you talking about, Arisawa?"
Tatsuki pursed her lips and narrowed her gaze at him.
"I mean, why is it every time you screw up, you come to me? And I'm left trying to be your therapist and pick you back up?" Tatsuki flipped open her phone as it vibrated once again.
Ichigo's expression darkened for a moment before flashing back to his calm features and he was glad Tatsuki was too engrossed in her phone to catch it.
"I didn't think I was that much of a bother... fine, I'll just leave-" Ichigo got up from the bed, which creaked as his weight lifted off of it, and made his way to her bedroom door, but Tatsuki caught him by his collar and pulled him back, throwing him back down on the bed –creaking again as his weight fell back onto it. He landed with an oof and glared at her as he bounced.
"Don't be so dramatic pretty boy. I didn't mean it like that," Tatsuki mumbled, tapping the keys on her phone. "I just want to know why you trust me so much," Tatsuki pressed down on the send key and looked up at Ichigo to watch his expression. His face was blank and he shrugged his shoulders.
"All I did was knock over a vending machine, why's it such a big deal?"
"Not the point, idiot,"
"Fine, flat booty!" Tatsuki glared hard at him and snarled, almost chucking her phone at him but resisting when she got a text. They held a staring contest for what seemed like forever, but in reality it was nearly less than 20 seconds. Tatsuki's phone once again vibrated and interrupted the moment, which Ichigo was actually glad and thankful for. He'd have to thank Renji for that later.
He watched silently as Tatsuki read the message carefully before puckering her lips and glancing up at Ichigo through her bangs. Without even replying, Tatsuki flipped the phone closed and placed it on her dresser beside her dangling legs. Ichigo lifted an eyebrow and took a quick glimpse at the bright electric blue device Tatsuki had ignored rather than jumping on it like it was the last burger in the world.
"Forget about that, let's just hang out today..." Tatsuki offered easily with a slight smirk. She kicked her legs back and forth, watching Ichigo's expression change from curious to downright suspicious.
"What makes you say that…?" Ichigo almost interrogated, scowling at his childhood friend as he slowly sat up. Tatsuki only grinned and jumped off of the dresser.
"C'mon, sour puss! When was the last time you just had a little fun? I know you must've been pretty stressed lately with this whole Rukia thing and everything," Tatsuki pressed on, briskly walking over to her closet. She slid open the door and began to slide over hangers of clothes. "Don't you just want to relax for awhile? I know hospitals make you uneasy," she spoke aloud, not even looking at him, but instead her attention on the dark purple t-shirt she pulled out.
Ichigo stared at her back, watching as she pulled out multiple shirts only to put them back with a quick glance at them as if she had to have the perfect outfit for the occasion. Tatsuki was never one to dwell on what she wore; she was more of the grab and go kind of girl. He even saw her once wearing pajamas pants with a bright orange t-shirt that made her look like a muscular pumpkin.
Tatsuki puffed her cheeks at a pair of jeans she pulled out and threw it on the dresser opposite Ichigo and continued her search.
"So what do you say? You wanna hang with me and Renji for the rest of the day?" Tatsuki called over her shoulder as she pulled out the dark purple t-shirt she first picked out. She turned around and quirked up an eyebrow at her companion, waiting for his answer.
Ichigo thought about it for a moment. Well, he did need time to just get away from everything and relax. A good outing with his two best friends would be good for him –it'd be nice to just kick back for once. He looked up at Tatsuki who was now going through her drawers, most likely looking for clean underwear. She had no shame in pulling out a pair of boxers and throwing them on top of the dresser along with her other articles of clothing.
He shrugged and mumbled a "sure." Tatsuki turned around with a smirk before grabbing her phone and finally texting a reply to an awaiting Renji. Her fingers tapped away wildly before she shut it close with an almost evil grin and tossed it to the bed.
Ichigo watched it bounce and swatted it away as it brushed his hand.
"So where're we going?"
Tatsuki grabbed the shirt on her dresser and lazily pulled it over her tank-top. Taking hold of the black boxers, she shot Ichigo a mischievous look and only chuckled darkly as she took long strides towards her bathroom.
"Tattoo parlor!' Tatsuki shouted, entering the bathroom and laughing evilly.
"Wait, what-"Ichigo was cut off by the slamming of the bathroom door, Tatsuki's way of shutting him up.
XxXxXxXx
"Ichigo, what the hell do you have on your arm?" Rukia asked, nearly shouting as her boyfriend came to stand by her bed side, hands stuffed deep in his pockets and a tired scowl painted on his face. He groaned a short reply and leaned his body to the left slightly, putting his weight on his left foot and turning slightly to hide the arm from Rukia's view. But she was persistent and frowned when he turned his body from her, going as far to growl at him.
When she had woken up finally earlier before Ichigo had arrived, she was almost startled to realize that she felt no pain whatsoever. She wasn't sore and stiff like she figured she would be and she didn't even have to crack her neck –which was more than a relief.
The first thing she did was clear her throat to check to see if it would hurt and the only thing she felt was a tingle, if even that. There was absolutely no pain at all. Even her stomach didn't have that queasy feeling that made her want to jolt out of bed and throw up. She wasn't sure how long she had spent in the hospital, but she knew she didn't have to spend any more time there with how she was feeling. Even when another nurse had come in, she was told that she was progressing fine and that it was actually quite the miracle that she was recovering so fast. Rukia had practically beamed at that and thanked the male nurse as he left with a smile and a salute –a strange gesture to her, but she took it as a kind goodbye anyways.
With absolutely no pain, Rukia took her recovery another step further. Even to her disbelief, she began to sing. She hit low notes, high notes, and even monotone notes; of course she was totally off key and probably hit one or two notes correctly, but her throat felt just fine. She took it far enough to do a little victory dance in her bed. She was just so glad to have the pain be over –what was she thinking before? What in God's name could have possibly possessed her to think drinking herself silly would solve any problems she had? Now that she thought about it, she was being quite ridiculous with the way she had handled her situation. There were people out there who had it worst, much worst, and yet there she was with her pretty little house, designer clothes, perfect boyfriend (although at the time she was positive that no longer implied) people who loved her, people she loved, more than excellent grades, and fine dining meals from Byakuya's servants sometimes on a daily basis (they were hired some time around when Hisana had become too ill to do the cooking and God forbid Rukia try to cook anything that involved a stove, or a microwave for that matter).
She had it all, and she wanted to sacrifice it all because of the boyfriend that died 3 years ago, the constant teasing at school, the death of a close loved one, and her own fault of thinking her perfect boyfriend would ever do something so ludicrous.
Thinking of it now, Rukia wanted to slap herself for her stupidity.
People die –that hit her home. She was aware of that, very, very aware of that fact. Nothing last forever; not even pain. She'd get over it soon or later, and yes it would always be in the back of her mind, nagging away at her until she cried –but that's where it would end. She refused to let something like this ever happen again. Her own self pity would not consume her to the point of taking her life; not again. Of course, she wasn't a robot, and sometimes the thought of her sister, or her father, or maybe Kaien, hell even Momo –sometimes it would get to her, she knew that. There was no avoiding it, but she had to be stronger than that. She couldn't let herself do that anymore...she had seen what it done to Ichigo and Orihime...she wouldn't put them through that again.
Rukia had to get used to life; people won't always be around, no matter how much you love them. Friends won't always stick around, not even for the sake of popularity. Boyfriends will make mistakes, no matter how perfect you may picture them. And not everyone will like you, especially when they're convinced you killed someone. Well, that last one wasn't really a part of a normal person's life, but you get the picture.
Rukia dwelled on those facts for a while, scribbling drawings onto a pad a kind nurse had given her prior her awakening. She had been quite bored with the Spanish soap operas and needed something to get her mind off of everything. Drawing and painting always brought her peace, no matter what or where. So far, she had drawn a pretty damn good picture of a bird flying across an ocean.
She had busied herself with that for the past hour until suddenly Ichigo came through the door, slowly opening it as it creaked because he figured she was sleeping and didn't want to wake her. He came into the room a bit startled to see her up and awake, drawing and staring at him carefully as he entered the bright room. He grinned at her nervously and it was then that she knew he had done something stupid; well something more stupid than knocking over a vending machine.
Immediately questioning him as he came in, she had pushed away her drawing pad and set the pencil aside. He looked around the room with a bit skittish behavior that only made her even more suspicious. Slowly, he fully entered the room and cleared his throat as he stepped in closer to her bed. She took one look at him and gasped as her eyes came to his left arm. Leaning forward –which Ichigo didn't expect since he figured her stomach would still hurt- she grabbed at him, only for him to pull away with that dumb nervous smile again. At that point she was just annoyed.
It was when he refused to let her touch him that she asked the question, and he stuffed his hands in his pockets and grumbled.
"I'm sorry, what was that? I couldn't hear you over your stupidity! Now, what the hell is on your damn arm!" Rukia tried again, irritated and frowning. She followed Ichigo's movement as he slowly turned to his left and gave Rukia a perfect view of his arm. He pulled down the bandage leisurely and revealed his arm to her. His tattooed arm.
Of course it wasn't his full arm, he wasn't that stupid. It was just on his shoulder, but it was still a shocker, and Rukia played that part well.
Her mouth was agape and her eyes widened like saucers.
"Oh. My. Gawd... Ichigo... Oh my gawd, Ichigo, what did you do!" Rukia shouted, reaching her fingers to touch the inked display on her boyfriend's shoulder, only for him to swat away her fingers and put back the bandage.
"You can't touch it yet –it's still really sore and uhm... wet..." Ichigo mumbled, securing the bandage. Rukia only gave him a bewildered look and sat straight up.
"I'm in the freaking hospital, and you go and get a tattoo?" Rukia cried, reaching once again for Ichigo, this time to slap him up across the head, but he caught her wrist.
"C-calm down Rukia! Geez, why does everybody want to slap me today..." Ichigo mumbled, a firm grip on her wrist. She should've known his dumb touch would make all of her anger melt away from her. Her eyes softened and she shook her head at him, eyeing the bandage.
"Why did you get a tattoo, Ichigo? Please just explain that to me," Rukia sighed, still frowning. It wasn't that she had a thing against tattoos, she actually thought it was a beautiful way of expressing art, but it just wasn't something she imagined Ichigo doing. And she always thought of tattoos of a way to symbolize something, what exactly was he symbolizing?
"Alright, just relax, ok babe?"
"Don't call me that…"
"After all this time and I still can't call you babe?"
Rukia shot him a warning look.
"No." Rukia stated flatly, crossing her arms over her chest. "It sounds stupid," she continued, looking at him pointedly. "Stop changing the subject, and tell me why you got that," Rukia gestured towards the bandage with a nod of her head and waited for his reply. He shifted from foot to foot and carefully leaned in, bringing his lips to her forehead before proceeding. "Don't try to butter me up!" Rukia barked at him as he kissed her cheek lovingly.
"What're you talking about?" Ichigo chuckled darkly, trailing light kisses over her collarbone.
"Fuck you..." Rukia moaned, trying to push him away with no affect whatsoever. Ichigo gave her another chuckle, pecked her lips, and shot her a suggestive look, and then pulled back far enough to admire her dark blush. "I hate when you do that, so just tell me why you got that because I'm nowhere near mad now," Rukia grumbled, irritated, but indeed not angry.
Ichigo smirked and nodded his head.
"Alright, so you know how I got kicked out, right?" He said, stroking her hand still in his grasp. Rukia nodded her head numbly. "Well, I was locked out of my house so I went over to Tatsuki's house to hangout, but she just wanted to 'sext' Renji..." Ichigo cringed at that thought, noticing Rukia's expression go from numb to surprised and then back to numb when he caressed the length of her arm. "So anyways, while she was texting him, he told her about the new tattoo he wanted to get. Tatsuki then said she wanted one as well. And naturally, she ended up dragging me along and well... yeah I got a tattoo..." Ichigo peered at her through his bangs and noticed that numb look was gone and she was frowning again. He sighed and tugged at her hand. "C'mon, Rukia, it's not that bad,"
Rukia shook her head.
"I know, I know, I'm just kind of shocked... What did you get anyways? I didn't get a good look at it."
Ichigo hesitantly pulled the bandage away and gave Rukia another look. He blushed deeply as she took in the picture and words written in fancy script below it. He watched as Rukia gasped and then smiled warmly.
Looking up at him, her eyes grew soft and affectionate. How could she possibly be mad at him with a tattoo like that?
"Oh, Ichigo..." Rukia breathed his name, almost lost for words as she truly admired the art on his arm.
It was raven black butterfly, spreading its wings apart, ready to take off it wasn't already flying, but it was beautiful. As if that wouldn't take her breath away, right below that were the words "It's the moments together that change us forever."
"It's a pretty girly tattoo in my opinion, but for some reason I just really liked it when I saw it and I had to get it. Much better than the stupid baboon/monkey thing Renji got on his ankle, as if he didn't already have enough dumb tattoos covering his body. At least Tatsuki got a pretty cool tattoo of herself round house kicking a punching bag," Ichigo chuckled at the memory of Tatsuki yelping (something he nearly ever heard from the tomboy) as she first got stuck with the vibrating needle against her skin. It took awhile to calm her down...
"I love it! It's about your mother, right?" Rukia whispered gently, reaching to touch it but retracting her hand as she remembered it was still sore. Ichigo blushed for a moment and mumbled something underneath his breath, too low for her to hear or understand, but she didn't mind and continued to admire the art. She smiled and looked up at his amber eyes, seeing that look she loved and knew was only reserved for her and her only; that thought gave her a warm feeling and it showed on her face that lit up like a Christmas tree.
"I thought you'd like it,"
"I do,"
Ichigo leaned in once more and pecked her perfectly plump lips, smirking into the simple kiss and enjoying the light shade of pink that coloured Rukia's cheeks. He'd never get tired of that colour on her face.
But his amusement was short lived when the door creaked open and in stepped the one and only; Kuchiki Byakuya. And he didn't look happy.
Rukia turned towards the visitor, ready to ask them for some privacy, but she stopped mid sentence and shut her mouth after immediately gasping. In some strange panic dance, Rukia stammered for Ichigo to leave and pushed on his chest, willing him to go right away while she tried to turn him so that his left arm wouldn't be seen by the hawk like eyes of the elder Kuchiki. Nervously, she chuckled and shooed her boyfriend away, all the while keeping her eyes trained on Byakuya's next move.
His eyes were their usual cold and lifeless shade of dark purple. He looked tired though, as if he had been up all night, and judging by the barely evident (but still noticeable) lines under his eyes, she figured that's exactly what had happened. His suit was nice and clean and held no trace of wrinkles or lint. His hair didn't seem as perfect as it normally did, but it still looked much better than she could ever do with her hair. Byakuya stood tall and sturdy, his shoulders broad and his face slender like usual. There was no difference in him, except maybe the aura he had brought in with him –which was not cold like she would have expected. Disappointment was heavy in the air, as well in his judging eyes.
Ichigo cleared his throat, breaking the silence and causing the elder Kuchiki to send a cold look his way. Rukia inwardly cringed at the awkward atmosphere and wished Byakuya had never showed up. She only hoped Ichigo wouldn't say anything stupid for once, just this once.
"Hah...nice weather we're having today, don't you think Byakuya?" Ichigo nervously chuckled, scratching at a non-existent itch in the back of his head.
Well, the thought was nice to at least consider.
"It's Kuchiki." Byakuya spoke coldly, eyeing Ichigo with distaste.
"What?"
"You do not call me Byakuya. I am Kuchiki to you."
A vein popped in Ichigo's head and he scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest defiantly. Rukia noted the rebellious look in Ichigo's eyes kick in and it was in that moment she knew this wasn't going to end well.
"Ichigo, just leave!" Rukia growled at him through her teeth, clenching her jaw and hoping Byakuya didn't hear. If Ichigo did hear her, he didn't let on any indication of the fact.
"Hah, excuse me?" Ichigo spoke, cocking up his eyebrow in a way that invited nothing but trouble. Rukia inwardly groaned and rubbed her temple. Byakuya's eyebrows furrowed, slightly shocked and irritated with Ichigo's response. He took a deadly step forward and Rukia felt the room grow cold.
"Did I stutter?"
'C'mon, just say no, Ichigo! Say, no Mr. Kuchiki! You did not stutter! I was wrong! I'm an idiot, and you were right because you're superior to me-'
"Well maybe if the sound of the pole up your ass wasn't so loud, I would've heard you."
'Holy shit, he did not just say that to him!'
Something seemed to set off in Byakuya's mind like a bomb exploding in a very small room –obliterating the walls and sending anyone in a 100 mile radius flying. The room felt more like a glacier now and Rukia wouldn't be surprised if ice cycles began to form on the roof.
Byakuya looked down at Ichigo with a hard glare, one in which that would usually freeze a person's heart and make them drop dead at his feet, but Ichigo was unnerved and only answered Byakuya's chilling glower with a snide smirk.
"Listen to me rookie, and listen well. I am not someone whom you'll wish to upset and burn your bridges with. I have connections around the world so strong that if I were to press number 6 on my speed dial, the mob would be in here in 10 seconds flat; ready to annihilate you without a second thought. Do not press me, don't even think about trying to toy with me because I will assure you that I am not someone to be played. I don't know if I look like some mindless XBOX game you may frequently play in your free time –which I'm sure you have plenty of considering I can't imagine you doing anything else with your life and lack of skills- but you will not play with me as if I am one. Do you comprehend me, or shall I speak slower and dumb down my vocabulary in order for you to understand me to the full extent?" Byakuya did not miss a beat nor did he even stop to take a breath. He straightened his tie, his eyes locked on Ichigo and his glare did not dare to waver the slightest bit. Even Rukia felt chills and she wasn't even the one on the other side of Byakuya's assault. It came to a shock to both Kuchikis when Ichigo only chuckled and dared to take another deadly step closer to the fire as if he were holding gasoline in his hands.
"Talk all you want, Byakuya," Ichigo spit the word like venom and jerked his head in Rukia's direction. He smirked at her through the corner of his liquid eyes. "But at the end of the day, I'm the one bringing her home. I highly doubt you know somebody that can make Rukia moan like I can-"
"Ichigo!" Rukia shouted, flustered and pressing her hand to her flushed red cheek. She glared at him and wished she had the strength to jump out of that bed and slap the knowing grin off of his face. "B-Byakuya! He's lying! He's a liar!" Rukia pointed accusingly at Ichigo, knowing well that he was indeed not a liar and he had made her moan on several different occasions because of his skillful tongue and smooth, quick hands that worked a number on her. Of course, she wasn't allowed to admit that kind of thing to her brother in-law, but for some reason, Ichigo really insisted on getting his ass whooped today.
"Oh, please! Rukia, you know no other guy could ever make you pant their name-"
"Shut up, dumbass!" Rukia barked, ignoring Byakuya's gaze from her rude slander.
"Kurosaki," Byakuya called Ichigo's name, a deadly serious tone very evident in his voice. This time, Ichigo get goose bumps when Byakuya called his name so callously. They locked eyes and a part of Ichigo knew that if he didn't comply with whatever Byakuya was about to request, he'd need his own hospital bed. "Leave. Now."
Rukia would've kicked him out herself if he didn't obey this time, but luckily Ichigo finally dug into his bag of stupidity and found some common sense. He put up his hands, shaking his head and chuckling.
"Alright, alright I'll leave. Don't get your panties in a bunch," Ichigo smirked, watching the dangerous look flicker in Byakuya's eyes. Ignoring the silent threat, Ichigo walked over to Rukia's side and planted a peck on her awaiting lips. "I'll see you later tonight, okay?"
Rukia nodded, already pushing on his chest to leave.
Ichigo passed Byakuya, chuckling, opened the door and left as it creaked behind him.
There was an awkward silence for a long time where no one talked or dared to even breathe too loud. The only sounds penetrating the room were the almost silent beeps from the monitors. Rukia fidgeted nervously in her sheets and half of her wished Ichigo had actually stayed to get rid of the weird air in the room.
Byakuya wasn't saying a word, but instead he had somehow strode over to the window in between the time Ichigo had said goodbye and left. He was looking out the window, staring blankly at passing cars with no interest, his hands deep in his pockets and his posture perfectly straight. For a moment, Rukia really did wonder if maybe there was a pole up there keeping him so straight and balanced.
The silence seemed to last hours, though she knew only a few seconds in reality had passed. But it was when an entire minute of knowing even speaking, that she finally made a move to say something to the man in the suit.
She cleared her throat, ready to speak up, but as if he had read her mind, Byakuya beat her to it.
"Rukia, do you know what the house looks like right now?" His tone was cold and tired, almost menacing but not quite there. Rukia clamped her mouth shut and looked down at the sheets over her legs. She didn't know what the house looked like to be honest. After her third –or maybe even second- bottle of vodka, everything was hazy. She had no recollection of what she had done or who she had hurt, or even what she may have broken and destroyed. She knew for a fact that she had definitely destroyed any trust whatsoever that Byakuya had for her. He probably lost all respect for her –if he even had any to begin with. She had really messed up this time, and she knew that, and she was ashamed.
She didn't know how to answer Byakuya and she was glad he was avoiding looking at her and instead keeping his eyes trained on what was outside the window. If he were to see the shame on her face right now, he'd be disgusted if not horrified with her.
There was another long silent pause between them. Usually, his cold and stoic demeanor would bother her, but right now she couldn't really blame him if he hated her for what she had done.
He was struggling enough with the loss of his wife –did he really need a rebellious teen throwing a tantrum and flipping his house upside down? The house he had worked so hard to afford? Did she have that right?
"I... I'm sorry..." Rukia croaked, averting her eyes to her sheet covered feet and wondering if even her toes felt as embarrassed as she did.
Byakuya once again said nothing and let the silence engulf her. She'd rather have him yelling at her than not saying anything at all; this was just torture.
"Rukia, do you think Hisana would be proud of what you did?"
Rukia held her breath and felt her chest contract to the question. She knew the answer to that and it pretty much hit her home. She sucked in a quick breath and closed her eyes, afraid that any minute she'd start crying in front of the one man she refused to show weakness in front of.
But he was right.
"Do you think your sister would be happy to know that the little girl she's been raising on her own since you were 12 decided to kill herself by drinking herself to near death? Tell me, Rukia, what do you think she'd say?" To her surprise, Byakuya's cold and scolding tone didn't make her angry like it usually did; mostly because she just knew she was the one in the wrong this time. If Hisana were here, she'd be on her knees, sobbing and shaking and bawling about the fact that her baby sister would even think of doing something so horrific, not to mention acting upon it. The moment her lips wrapped around that slick bottle and she felt the bitter drink slide down her throat like acid –she had known this was a mistake. There was that nagging voice in the back of her head telling her this was wrong, and yet she hadn't listened.
Rukia eyes studied Byakuya's rigid stance, his large hands stuffed in his pockets; she imagined them clenching and unclenching. He stood tall and straight, and yet Rukia could still sense that he was doing everything in his control not to just fall over and let the grief he had on his shoulder collapse with him. But Byakuya was not a man of weakness, she knew this much. He was a man of pride so strong that he'd sacrifice probably an arm just to show his determination.
Rukia wondered if maybe that was why he was always so firm and strict –he'd been carrying around the weight of internal sadness and it was eating him alive, leaving nothing behind but a broken man and a corpse so perfect and uptight that there was no room for even laughter. Not even a smile.
She stayed silent, her throat clogged up suddenly, and waited for him to continue instead of expecting her answer; one she wouldn't be able to give at the moment.
The room felt oddly colder and ever so slowly, Byakuya turned around to finally face Rukia. He didn't meet her eyes yet, he didn't have to.
Rukia took in his posture and how he stood as if he were terribly tired, but was doing all he could to just be here. His eyes, even though they weren't looking at her, were incredibly dark and sad. They were still cold and callous, judging even, but he looked incredibly sad and remorseful. He was staring past her head at the wall, eyes slightly glossy and distance.
"Rukia," she heard her name before she even saw his lips move. Her body was stiff and she felt entire being stiffen under the gaze of Kuchiki Byakuya. He was looking directly at her with those bone chilling eyes, peering right into her very soul. Rukia suddenly felt very uncomfortable under Byakuya's unnerving stare. She shifted awkwardly in her bed and fidgeted until Byakuya's finally spoke again.
"I don't think you realize what effects your actions have on the people around you, and not just the people who love you –but the people who'd go beyond that distinctive word and take a bullet for you. You have not only put the Kurosaki boy in terrible distress, but as well as Miss Inoue who has done nothing, but give you her kindness. Don't you think she deserves more?" Byakuya paused, pointedly looking at Rukia with his daring eyes. He wanted an answer this time.
Rukia numbly nodded her head, eyes cast down away from her brother in-law's cold eyes. "Yes,"
Byakuya regarded her answer indifferently and continued, clenching his left fist tightly in his pocket.
"If you were to die, Rukia, did you really think nobody would miss you? Did you think you dying would ultimately solve everything and it would all just be fine? Take into consideration that you actually have people who care. Think about how much hurt and pain you've bestowed among your friends and family," Byakuya narrowed his eyes at the word 'family' and watched as Rukia tensed even more if possible. "You may not believe this Rukia, but I actually care for you. More than you know."
Rukia hesitantly looked up to sought for Byakuya's eyes, but he was once again facing the window, looking out at the passing cars. It seemed unreal, what he had just said. She almost wanted to ask him to repeat himself just so that she could be clear that she heard him right, but stopped herself.
Byakuya was silent for a long time. Rukia could barely hear him breathing and if it weren't for the fact that he was standing, she would've thought he was as good as dead. He was perfectly still, which still kind of amazed her, considering that she couldn't be still for more than a few minutes before she had to start moving again because her brain was always going and moving and running. Byakuya's mind seemed to always be on one track, one path, one song and he ran it over and over and over again –he never strayed from that route. But today, it seemed as if his mind was all over the place. His eyes were somewhere else. His body was in one place, but his mind was in another. It was like he was thinking of everything at once, trying to concentrate on her, but thoughts kept nagging constantly at him.
Rukia sighed and stared at the back of his head. What was wrong with her? Why was she repeatedly making mistakes left and right?
"I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry Byakuya... I don't know what's wrong with me-"
"Nothing is wrong with you, Rukia." Byakuya turned his head slightly, glancing at her through the corner of his eyes. Rukia clamped her mouth shut and settled back into the comfort of her pillow. "You're perfectly fine the way you are. Which is exactly why I don't understand why you make the decisions you do. You make good grades, you enjoy art and that is rare for someone of your age and your ability to make such creations on a canvas is admirable. You can't just throw everything away because of some downfalls in your life. You think you're the only one with bad days? Bad months? Bad years, you think you're the only constantly unhappy and seeking comfort in others laughter... because you know it's something you've lost a long time ago? Who says you're the only one hurting?"
Rukia shook her head.
"I don't think like that. I-"
Byakuya's phone rang in his coat pocket and Rukia shut her mouth, once again interrupted to get her point across. She watched with slightly annoyed eyes as the older Kuchiki reached into his pocket and pulled out the lit up cellular device and flipped it open, bringing it to his ear.
The little voice on the other end talked quickly before going silent for almost two whole seconds, and then started up again. It sounded like an angry male and Byakuya only nodded his head, his eyebrows furrowed in slight distress.
"Yes, I understand." The line went dead and Byakuya sighed, quietly shoving the phone back into his coat pocket without another word. He gave Rukia one more look over, his eyes still cold, but more relaxed. They locked eyes for what seemed like only seconds and then he took long strides over to the door and slowly opened it. It creaked again as he held the door handle for a moment and stared out into the hall.
Ichigo was still waiting in the hall, slumped over in a chair, lightly snoring. Just for a fraction of a second, Byakuya's eyes softened and he cracked the smallest smile and then just like that it was gone. 'He stayed?'
Turning to glance at Rukia, he noticed she was still watching his movements carefully. He took one step out of the door and nodded at her slowly.
"Goodbye, Rukia. I've had the house cleaned. You may come home whenever you feel necessary. I'd like for it to be soon." With that, Byakuya left and closed the door softly behind him, leaving Rukia to stare at the spot he once occupied. She took in everything he had said tonight, letting it soak into her mind.
Could it be possible by some wild chance, Byakuya had a heart? Did he actually care? He seemed different tonight. His eyes were still cold, but he looked sad and hurt, as if her actions really had taken a toll on him. He was tired, she could tell that much. He had been worrying and stressing over what to do. He was slightly frazzled by the situation, but he didn't show that –she could just tell with the way his voice was so terse and he was incredibly tense and rigid.
Rukia dropped her head into her heads and heaved a heavy sigh. The door creaked open once more and she slowly looked up, expecting to see Byakuya, but felt the corners of her mouth tug into a smile when she saw Ichigo instead. He yawned and rubbed his eyes as he walked over to her side and pecked her forehead.
"How'd it go?" He asked, firmly holding her shoulder and massaging the junction of her collarbone. She hummed softly and shook her head with a smile, sad smile.
"I'm not sure," Rukia admitted, relaxing into Ichigo's soothing touch. "Byakuya seemed really stressed this time. I think I really messed up, Ichigo. I went too far-"
"Shh, you did what you felt was right-"
"I wish everyone would stop interrupting me..." Rukia mumbled humorously. Ichigo just grumbled something under his breath and kissed the top of her head.
"Only trying to help," he murmured against her hair. "Besides, he came out and woke me up and told me to tell you sorry about leaving; business stuff. He cares about, you know." Ichigo kissed her cheek and she turned and looked at him, nodding.
"Yeah, I know,"
"You ready to go home?" Ichigo tapped her nose and shoved his hands back into his pockets. Rukia scrunched her face up, getting a low chuckle from her boyfriend.
"Already?"
"Yes, already, dummy. It's been like three days; how long do you want to be pampered by strange nurses and nosy doctors?"
"Well –and I'm not a dummy- I just thought I'd be here longer," Rukia pouted and flicked his abdomen. Ichigo caught her hand and grinned.
"Too bad princess, I'm taking you home... like, now." Ichigo played with her tiny digits and scoffed. "So let's go,"
"What? Don't you need to check me out or something?" Rukia frowned and balled her hand into a fist just to annoy him.
"Byakuya took care of that as he was leaving. You're free to go," He pried her hand open again and drew small patterns on her palm.
"So, I can pretty much just leave right now...?" Rukia tried balling her fist again, but Ichigo trapped her fingers with his.
"Yes, my dear, you can. I'll just go grab your clothes and you can change and then we'll leave. And we can go home," he kissed her palm and grinned.
"Which home?"
Ichigo's grin grew wider. He loved the idea of Rukia considering both the Kuchiki and Kurosaki household her homes, but frankly, they were. She was family to them and they welcomed her with open arms. Karin had begun to finally take a liking to Rukia, and Yuzu practically adored her. There was no doubting his father didn't love Rukia like his own daughter already. And Ichigo himself, well he had fallen head over heels with her and would take her into his home as family in a heartbeat. She had three homes really; one with Byakuya, one with him, and then the one in his heart –the one home that could and would never falter or fall. It was a warm home that he accepted her wholly into.
"Rukia, I think it'd be best if I brought you to Byakuya," he flicked her pouting lip and laughed as she cursed and sucked it back in. "And it's not that I don't want you with me –trust me, I do- but you guys have plenty to discuss," Ichigo kissed her puckered lips and chuckled as she moaned against his mouth and brought her hand to cup his face.
Pulling back, they locked eyes and Rukia felt the flurry of butterflies unleash from their barracks and attack her tummy head on. She knew her face must've been so red right now, but she didn't care. Her heart increased in beats and the monitor beeped rapidly. Slowly, a smile pulled at her lips and she knew that the grin Ichigo held was because he knew what she was thinking. Their lips connected once again and with gentle strokes of his tongue, Ichigo pried his way lovingly into her awaiting mouth. They melted against each other. Rukia sighed contently when he pulled away, her lips puffy and pink.
Stroking his cheek, she smiled and felt more butterflies unfold in the depths of her belly when Ichigo returned her loving gaze and flashed his undeniably fascinating grin.
"I love you," she murmured, her chest feeling light. He pecked her lips once more and firmly held her hand.
"I love you too,"
For some reason, even when he had already said it before, the second time sounded just as pleasant. Her heart skipped around in her chest. Her body felt warm. Her mind was fuzzy and her lips were suddenly very needy of his.
"Let's go home," with that said, Rukia nodded and pulled him in again to meet his irresistible lips with hers.
Woop woop ! Chapter complete ! Thanks for everything guys; I send you much love ;D 230 reviews ! Really , you guys are so amazing and I love you all so much ! My heart swells with love and appreciation , you have no idea ! I hope you've enjoyed this story , it's been a two year project and I never really thought I'd ever get this far with it ! It's an honour to know that so many people have enjoyed what I put out , because I really do try ! Thank you guys !
Two more chapters , and we'll finally be done . That might come even closer; I've already written two epilogues for this story (I just couldn't wait!) But I don't know which one to use... what do you guys think ? I don't want to tell you what it's about because that would just ruin the fun . But should I go with the happy ending , or the bitter sweet ending ? Let me know soon please ! Or maybe I should just put in both ? I don't know , give me your input(:
I hope you enjoyed ! I'm sincerely sorry for any grammar , punctuation , capitalization , or spelling errors ! Much love !
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XOXO~ Chappy-Is-Mine