Lovely reviews, I love you guys, really!
I have been doing the final touches of this fic, when it suddenly rained! I hate it when it rains at night… It seems so cold, and the silence along with the drops of water on the roof is deafening… I just hate it. I really, really hate it when it rains at night. It's not as peaceful as it looks during the day; it just seems so sinister... I don't know... So I'm sorry this came in late. I had to stop typing every time that happens… And it's been happening quite a lot since we're experiencing a storm here in my place—not to mention our phone line went dead for two days because of it. And so far, I'm glad it's not giving us any black out or I will so kill. Currently listening to IchigoxRukia memories in the rain, simply glorious.
Any errors seen here are not done purposely. My eyes are watery today and I hate storms… as well as I hate colds. And I am experiencing both of them.
Shout outs!
Missy: Thank you very much, I'm am much honored that you liked it and is now looking forward to the ending. Wahaha Yes, finally they kissed, and we continue it here. Hope you like this one too.
Animeme: You rock too. Thanks, enjoy!
Werxa: hmm.. sorry, no pummeling of Ichigo for now… There will be, but not now. Chizuru will come in when there's Senna. In fact she's here right now, but not that big of a scene. Thanks, enjoy
Strawberry-chan: No rejection, a little awkwardness but no rejection indeed. No, Urahara and Isshin didn't see the kiss, unfortunately—for us but lucky for Ichigo and rukia. Woot. Thanks, enjoy
Soso: No Ichigo getting hurt for awhile. The kiss would be a big surprise in their nerves to even try to think of lashing out on the other. Byakuya is lovable here because I heart him even better now. I hope you like this chapter too. Thanks.
Ryukansen : Can I have some of those cookies that you have been munching on? Haha. Sigh, I want to have a nice Christmas feast too… I'm really starting to get hungry here. Thanks, I hope you enjoy this too.
Zeldagamefan: sorry for the cliffie, I hope this makes up for it. Thanks. And oh, enjoy.
bleATCH: sorry for the cliffie too, and the late update, I hope I you enjoy this to make up for it.
Shana.rose: Haha… I have been tempted to have Ichigo lick her hands… but… no, not yet… not yet, patience is the key to everything and then we'll have Ichigo licking not only her hands(Ack, pervertive thoughts alert!!) Sushi: No, I meant to say Ice cream!!! Enjoy!
RinUtari: Thanks, here's the update, enjoy!
Kazukagi: Sorry to have caused some worry, I have been really busy the past few days and I'm getting literally sick because of it. I hope this update didn't take too long. I really appreciate all your support. Sorry for the cliffhanger too… I just couldn't resist it. Thanks for the comments, it really made my day, and I felt like I could do lots of things for today now (which includes the next update) Haha, almost everybody said that's it about time Ichigo does some action. Haha. Thanks, again and enjoy.
Gadez: Thank you very much, glad you liked it. I hope you also enjoy this update.
Izari-hime: Hmm. I forgot the title of the fic.. but it has some line with 'Rukia' and 'kiss' in it… I don't really remember, sorry. Thank you for the support, and glad you loved it. I hope this update too is to your favor.
-AnGeLiCaNiMeKiTtY-: So far, you are the one to correctly say that Rukia will get confused with the kiss, and not bash ichigo. Haha Renji will soon come, next chapter I think, or next after next chapter… And it'll be good. Haha, sorry about the cliffie, hope this makes up for it.
ChApPy-ApRiL: Read on to find out how both of them will take the kiss! Thank you very much for the support! And glad you liked it. I hope this chapter is worth the wait also.
ADDVengance: Thank you. Enjoy reading!
Mau-chan: Sorry for the boring parts… I tend to ramble with fics… but then again… anyway, Renji will soon come, that's a sure shot. Gin? Hwow! Where did that come from? But Gin will come, in an unexpected part. Thanks again. Enjoy.
RyaNa-cHan: Thanks.. Oh there will be more, that I assure you. Haha
Polarissakura: Thanks for the cookies and sushi… though its kinda weird since I'm called sushi.. I'm like cannibal and I eat myself. Hahaha soo… anyway, I'm being off topic… yes, thank you glad you liked the fic and last chapter. I hope you enjoy this one too!
Intercostalspace: Haha. Yes, she doesn't boink him in the head. Thank you.
Shirou Hana: By far you are the longest reviewer I have gotten, and I'm not complaining! Haha. Sorry if my reply is a tad bit short though… I'm glad you liked it all! I mean, that's a very nice thing to say to me! I love you now! HUGS! And thank you for being so thoughtful, but yes, I'm doing quite fine now nowadays… stress does come once in a while, but I'm trying to cope up with it. Thank you for being so ever loyal and supportive of this story, and in DA too. You loved the kiss so much? Well, here's news, we will have lots of that from now on. (Uhm, not US…. I meant, Ichigo and Rukia… in the fic…) wahehehehe.
Babiikhlxx3: Thank you for the cookies. (chomps) and I'm not mad for you not reviewing before, I'm grateful you did now. Thanks for the support! And yeah, about time Ichigo grew balls!
Hisanachan: Thank you. I hope you like this chapter too.. (Crosses fingers) Have fun, and enjoy reading. Haha, you made a double review, but that's completely okay. Yes, they finally kissed! Enjoy!
Sakuo07: Oh wow, thank you… Such a nice compliment… I'm all gushed up about it. Thank you again. Glad you liked it, And I'm glad you are enjoying what I can offer. It's really nice to know that I can make people happy with the small things I can do.. Thank you again. I hope you enjoy this update too. Have fun!
Me: I'm not going to abandon fics like I said… I'm sorry if I made you wait so long… I just had a lot in hand… And I'm trying my best to squeeze in this fic with my sched. Sorry. Sorry for the cliffie too. I hope this update makes up for it. Glad you liked the gift giving ideas… It took me a lot of time thinking about what they could give that matches their attitudes. Haha. Enjoy, and thanks.
Bella68: Thank you also, for being patient with my uber late updates. Haha. Glad you liked the previous chapter, I am so pleased. Also, thank you for backing me up with my off topic rant about the bashing Rukia thing. Sigh, I'm so happy, I get supports here and there. May god bless you all! Here's the zitch, (Tried to sound like Kim possible wahaha) Byakuya is in this chapter. Yay! Hope you enjoy this, it's not one of my best chapters, but hey, at least I tried.
Bleacher27: Cliffies are the ultimate temptation to every ff writers. Haha. I had to give in to that, sorry, haha. And you're right, love them and hate them at the same time.
Pigtopus: Thank you for wishing me good luck on my thesis. I really, truly as in honestly appreciate it! Glad you liked what Ichigo did last chapter. Or the whole chapter for that matter. Thanks again and enjoy!
Shenhui: Sorry for the late update, glad you liked the last chapter. Thank you. HUGS THE READER TOO. I hope you like this one too. And enjoy!
R00k82: Thank you. Enjoy!
Conterra-san: Thank you. Haha. Get ready, here's the continuation! Yay. Thanks again, and I hope you enjoy this one too!
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As promised, Chapter 24 of Fall.
Previously on chapter 23:
The two stared at each other again, breathing quite haggardly out of exhaustion. Rukia scoffed. "Alright. Catch your breath if you must." She blushed and looked away.
After a few minutes, Ichigo spoke again. "Hey, Rukia."
"What?" She turned to look up at his amber orbs.
"You had fun right?"
"What kind of a question is that—"
"Just answer it."
"Yeah. Why wouldn't I be?"
"Oh, I don't know… I was just randomly asking."
"Yeah, I had fun. Thanks a lot too with the gift, your family is fun, and the guys, they're just golden."
"Glad to hear that."
What about you?"
Ichigo raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Oh. I did… best time in my life actually."
Rukia snickered. "Well, glad to hear that too."
They both just looked at each other as silence passed again.
"Hey Rukia."
"What? Caught your breath already?"
"Yeah."
"Then let's.."
"Hey."
"What?" Rukia answered a bit irritated.
Ichigo shook his head and smiled. "Merry Christmas." He finally let out and pressed his lips against hers.
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Disclaimer: Bleach, not mine. The story/plot is mine though.
Type: AU, may exceed to more than one chapter… Oh heck, I just exceeded more than one chapter already anyway.
Rating: M. Not because there's lemony stuff here. There's none. But there will be some adult talk and stuff so I figured; I'd make this M in rating just to be safe.
Pairing: IchigoxRukia
Summary: Rukia Kuchiki goes on fulfilling her dreams as a manga artist, and stumbles upon band vocalist and lead, Ichigo Kurosaki who makes her coordinated life become a bit more spontaneous.
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Title: Fall
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Chapter 24: The note back home
The decision to kiss for the first time is the most crucial in any love story. It changes the relationship of two people much more strongly than even the final surrender; because this kiss already has within it that 'surrender'."
- Emil Ludwig
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It was like chocolates in a blissful day, hot and comfortable cocoa in a cold night, a display of warm colors; it was like…it was like what she had never experienced before.
Kuchiki Rukia lay there, lip-locked with Kurosaki Ichigo.
Kurosaki Ichigo her friend; her oh so wonderful friend— even though she won't admit it to him face to face—is lying on top of her, blessing her with unknown warmth, and sweet brushes of his lips against hers.
She really didn't know what came over her. It was like, she wasn't thinking at all, but still liked the idea of it. The minute Ichigo tackled her, her mind went blank, or went autopilot, because inside she was jelly, while outside, she was ranting at him.
When he asked her if he could stay like that so he can catch his breath, she didn't budge but instead, agreed, like it was the most normal thing in the world. She didn't know why, but she did.
And now, she knew her eyes went wide at the contact, and it still is. But as she gaze upon his pleasant face—eyes closed and all—and as he kissed her, her own eye lids gently close down and she started to move her lips to follow him.
Ichigo loved her taste; he had told himself how happy he is that he finally knew what her sweet pink lips tasted like—Is that strawberry?
In reality, he really didn't know what got into him. He tackled her earlier because of the game; there was nothing but that really. But as he felt her body against him, her warmth radiating throughout his own giving him goose pimples, he totally blacked out.
He had asked her, oh god, he had asked her to stay there on top of her for awhile as he rested to catch his breath. The minute those words came out of his mouth, he knew she would pummel him or something like that, just to get him off. But to his surprise, she didn't, like it was the most normal thing in the world.
He didn't react, for she might change her mind, and besides, it's what he wanted. Shameful yes, but it wasn't perverted in a sense—at least to him. He was thankful that there was no one around that time, probably because everyone was having their own Christmas feasts in their respective homes.
And then suddenly, he kissed her!
He friggin' kissed her!
He didn't intend to really, but he suddenly pressed his lips unto hers and didn't give a damn anymore what the world thinks, what everyone thinks and or what she may think or do to him—he fucking loves her!
Deep inside it still hurt, when he thinks that this stolen kiss will be the only thing he can share with her and nothing else, he hated the fact that he is just her friend, JUST her friend. He thought, if that was the case anyway, he would perhaps sacrifice the awkwardness after this. For now, he'll enjoy this.
He opened his eyes in surprise.
Shit, she was kissing him back!
Rukia's eyes were now closed and her lips are moving against his. Ichigo thought he was dreaming, but who was he to stop this?
He leaned back his head and gently coaxed her mouth open for a much deep kiss. He traced her lips with his tongue until she finally got the message and gently opened it for him to enter. He moaned at the contact as he gently caressed the inside of her mouth with his tongue and then biting gently on her lower lip as he got out again.
Rukia let out a small and almost inaudible moan but Ichigo heard it enough to make him shiver.
Rukia didn't really care as she finally surrendered to Ichigo's warm embrace and his honey coated kisses. It was intense, and she liked what she was feeling.
Surrender, yes, such a strong word. But why? Why did she surrender to him just like that? She knows it's not right; she wasn't even sure why she is letting all of this happen, nor was she sure why Ichigo is also doing this and perhaps, liking it the way she does.
She asks herself why?
She can't even fuckin' answer her own question.
What comes after this?
I don't know.
Is it really possible to do something just because you like it and not know what it really means and why you did it?
I don't know!
What about Renji, what would he say if he learns about this?
She opened her eyes in surprise and quickly pulled away from Ichigo.
Shit!
Rukia hurriedly pushed Ichigo away, much to the citrus head's surprise.
Ichigo stared back at her, still confused as to what the hell is really going on.
'How stupid!' Rukia berated to herself. 'How could you do something so shameful like this? Renji… he's… he's..' The raven haired girl almost choked and cry; but she totally controlled it. She won't break down in front of anyone else, no one, especially Ichigo.
They shared a moment of silence and of shock as to what happened earlier.
Did it really happen?
Yes.
Ichigo could see Rukia shake a bit, as if she had done something that is worth being stoned to death. It was not like she committed adultery for gosh sakes! But he sighed; he finally knew what those eyes meant. He felt guilty for making her feel and think like that. He started this anyway, so he's going to end it.
He can't have her feeling and looking like that. He must fix this.
Rukia was about to open her mouth to say something, anything at all, just to cancel the deafening silence, when Ichigo beat her to it.
"Look, Rukia…" He scratched the back of his head. "About earlier…"
"Ah... it was…" Rukia came.
"It was an accident." Ichigo breathed, Rukia's eyes widened in confusion, she didn't expect that answer from him. "What? Uh, no I didn't mean it tha—"
"I'm sorry, I must have took you by surprise… you see, it was…the kiss, it was just a gesture, you know, like the French kiss each other on the lips as a hello or something like that."
LIAR.
"Well, it's kind of a tradition… it's like me telling you that I really appreciate you… It's normal for me really, only it was just supposed to be a peck on the lips, but then, shit, I'm sorry.."
LIAR.
"I'm very sorry if that confused you. I'm sorry. I hope you don't take it seriously."
LIAR.
Rukia sat there dumbfounded at Ichigo's revelation. It was normal for him? That means the kiss wasn't that special and he's done that with other women whom he appreciates. She didn't know if she would be happy or sad about that.
Ichigo felt his stomach tighten. Now he definitely knows what heaven and hell feels like. A few moments ago was heaven, this… this is HELL.
It was the only thing that he could come up right now, yes, make her think that it was some stupid custom and that it's normal for him to do that.
Even though it really wasn't.
She was his first kiss. And there wasn't any stupid tradition or something like that. He kissed her because she was special, he kissed her because he loves her, he kissed her because…because…because she's everything! And it doesn't involve that stupid made-up custom.
Rukia calmed down a bit.
It was normal for him. And to think she kissed back! It's not his fault the kiss went deeper! She fucking kissed back, that's why it happened!
But it wasn't as if he put any meaning to what she did. It was because it was normal to him. So kissing back was like: 'I appreciate you too' or something like that.
She really didn't know if she liked the idea or not.
"Just, let's forget that ever happened." Ichigo let out a nervous chuckle, because his words really meant: 'You want that Rukia right? You want what happened to not exist right?'
Up until now, Rukia still cursed herself. She lost her ability to answer as well as to know what to answer. It was like she was really, really clueless, she was really, really dumb.
"Uh.." She came and Ichigo stood up, reaching for her hand. "Uh… no… it's not that… I…"
"Don't think too much about it Rukia…" Ichigo pulled her up. 'Please don't say anymore.' was what he wanted to say.
"I wasn't… I think." Rukia raised an eyebrow.
"Yeah, well, I'm sure you would like to do that with Kaien since you appreciate him right?" Ichigo spat bitterly, to stop this awkwardness before it gets out of hand.
"As if!" Rukia blushed and glowered. "I appreciate Kaien… But I don't think I will do what you do! It's not my custom—or whatever you call it, why should I?" Rukia glared at him, forgetting their current predicament.
Ichigo smirked a bit. 'Glad to hear that' He thought to himself.
"Anyway midget, race you back home!" He yelled and ran off.
"OI!!! You idiot!" Rukia took the football with her and followed suit.
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"Where have you two been?" Hisagi smirked slyly, noting the couple's disheveled look and not to mention their 'panting' as they came inside the house.
"Park." Ichigo stepped inside as soon as he was able to compose himself and stop himself from panting from all that running he and Rukia did on the way home.
"And what did you do?" Urahara cooed.
"Nothing that involves whatever is inside that stupid brain of yours." Ichigo growled, and make Urahara snicker more. "Why are you so irritable then?"
Ichigo glared at him, pushing away some strands of his hair off his face. "If you don't shut up, I'll personally introduce you to Mr. Fist right here." He glowered and lifted his hands in a tight ball.
"Geez, no need to be grouchy. I assume Rukia's team won then, she still has the ball." Hitsugaya smiled at the petite girl's direction, and the girl flinched at the mention of her name, almost dropping the football.
"Uh… not exactly… I well, I was disqualified. I ran with the ball outside the border." Rukia sighed and gave out a smile.
"Doesn't really matter Rukia-nee, as long as you had fun." Karin interjected and continued playing with her console; Chad sat beside her while trying to figure out some buttons on his joy stick.
"I had fun…" She blushed. "That's good. You should rest for awhile then." Hitsugaya gestured for her to sit down on the couch and she obliged.
Hisagi placed an arm over Ichigo's shoulder. "Sooo, Ichigo, I bet you had tons of fun too… I mean you and her alone in the park… You shouldn't miss out on the chances."
Ichigo flushed. Yeah, he sure didn't miss out really, he got himself a kiss to boot! But right now he doesn't want to think about it, it wasn't all a happy ending anyway. "Shut up. We got carried away and ran to the park; we realized that and had a race back. That's about it." He growled.
Too many lies in one day, he thought.
He slouched back on the couch as he took a glance at Rukia, who is busy talking to Hitsugaya—about what, he doesn't know—and his sister Karin who is now teaching Chad how to play with the console and her new game—He figured, Chad would play games from now on, so he must prepare his console back at his place—Yuzu who was busy whipping something up in the kitchen—She really loves cooking, most of her time in the house is consumed by that kitchen—His father nowhere to be found along with Urahara—Thank God for that—Yoruichi was busy sleeping on the other couch—But then stood up to sleep at the girl's room because it was so noisy around her—and the two, Hisagi and Kaien—who is pestering him about whatever.
"What really happened between you two in the park anyway?" Hisagi inquired.
"I said nothing." Ichigo groaned. "Why would you want something to happen anyway?"
Hisagi smiled and slouched back on the couch too. "Oh, nothing really, I was just randomly thinking."
Kaien's brow furrowed in a serious manner. "Did something really happen?"
Ichigo turned to the dark haired man and raised an eyebrow. "What is it to you anyway?"
Kaien laughed. "I was just kidding; you don't have to take it so seriously. I just thought well, you know, something happened. You two were a bit silent than the usual when you came… and you look like you were avoiding each other's gazes and.."
"And what? Geez, just because something like that happens doesn't mean something really happened!" He had about enough. He wasn't going to avoid her or anything.
If he did, than it's like telling her: 'Look, I lied; I really kissed you because I like you, and that whole custom thing is a load of bullshit.'
He wasn't up for that, not after he saw her puzzled reaction.
Argh, enough about angst stuff. He's going to go along like before, the kiss doesn't mean anything more—not that it did; therefore they shouldn't be bothered by it. He had told her a fake reason, so she has to deal with it. This is the most mature way to do, period.
Rukia was thinking the same really. She was talking to Hitsugaya about songs and stuff, but had to deadpan a bit as soon as she glanced up at Ichigo, who was being pestered by Hisagi and Kaien about something.
She admit, she was trying not to avoid Ichigo's glances and also trying hard not to blush when he looks at her, because he already said it, it was a custom. Meaning, she doesn't have to feel so awkward about it because it doesn't mean anything more.
It doesn't mean anything more.
But why does she feel a pang in her heart when she thinks about it not having any other meaning?
But she is going to get through this. She will still act the same with Ichigo, do the normal things they do, and all that.
It doesn't mean anything more.
--------------------------------
After the Christmas feast, the group decided to stay for the night and leave in the morning.
Yuzu packed the group something to eat on the way home and everyone loved it. Isshin had been ranting about having Grandchildren by next year and Ichigo and Rukia to tell him personally and quickly when they decide to have the wedding or something like that, which resulted to Ichigo pummeling him again and again.
The older Kurosaki had finally given the box to his son and Rukia—his gift.
The label said: To Ichigo and Rukia-chan, Merry Christmas Love, Papa P.S. Open this when you are inside the train
Rukia thanked Isshin, Yuzu and Karin. The twins bid their goodbyes while Isshin wailed and yelling how happy he is, and that he will miss them.
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"Why don't you open it already?" Hisagi pestered.
"Shut up, is this yours? Do you see your name on it? Huh? Huh?" Ichigo growled and protected the box from his friend.
"Why don't you just open it already? We're inside the train, your father said to open it inside the train. "Rukia leaned forward and helped Hisagi in pestering Ichigo.
She had to admit, she is quite curious as to what is inside the box. Ichigo didn't want to know nor open it. It's his father who had given this, his perverted father! Who knows what kind of perverted monstrosity is inside the thing? But then again, he was curious himself.
"Alright already!" Ichigo placed down the box on the table, and everyone gaped in and waited.
Yoruichi and Urahara sat behind the group who are bent down to look at the small thing. They knew what was inside anyway, no need to peek in with them.
Rukia was excited, she gently rubbed her bracelet—the bracelet Ichigo gave her—with her thumb as she bit her lower lip in anticipation.
"Hurry up Ichigo!" Hisagi wailed. "Cut the crap, it's my gift—"
"And Rukia's." Kaien interjected.
"Fine, My gift AND Rukia's… so if I want to open it slowly, it will be opened slowly!" Ichigo grumbled.
"Well, I want you to open it quickly then! I have a say, it's my gift too!" Rukia clasped her hand on her bracelet as she glowered at the orange haired young man.
"She's got a point." Hitsugaya sneered.
"Shut up." Ichigo gritted his teeth.
"Guys, just open it." Kaien sighed.
"Could we get on with it? My back is killing me." came Chad. Everyone stared at him, surprised at the giant's reaction. "uh… I'm curious too." He flushed.
Everyone went back to the box. "Alright here it i—What the fuck?!" Ichigo sputtered.
"What? What's wrong with it?" Rukia inquired, while Chad turned around, his curiosity gone with what he saw, Hisagi laughing and Kaien trying to suppress a chuckle.
Hitsugaya just shook his head; he didn't want to say anything.
"What is wrong with it?" Rukia came again as Ichigo raised the box over his head so she won't reach it. "Let me see!"
"Uh, no Rukia, it's really nothing, its junk!" Ichigo stuttered. "Then let me look at it." Rukia came again. "NO!" Ichigo glared at her but it didn't work. She frowned, kicked his shin and he accidentally let go of the box and its contents went scattering all over the floor.
Rukia's eyes widened. "What the heck is this?!"
"I told you it's nothing!" Ichigo answered back.
"Those are condoms Rukia… with different flavors and.."
"SHUT YOUR MOUTH!" Ichigo glowered at their manager, threatening to kill the daylights out of him if he as much says something that he will truly regret.
Then her eyes went towards the note:
Ichigo, Rukia-chan, this will help in all your escapades, its fun and it's useful. ; I would love to have grandchildren, but I would appreciate it if there are only below twenty—for now. Have fun in your wonderful sex li—
Ichigo trashed the note, Rukia glared at him.
"What the hell have you been telling your father?"
"I didn't tell him anything midget, he's just a natural pervert!"
"Then that makes you one then!" This comment earned a lot of snickers from the audience inside the room.
"Hell no!"
"Says who?"
Hisagi smirked. "Yeah Ichigo, says who?"
"You shut up!" Ichigo grumbled and stormed inside his room. "Ah to hell, trash that thing already, I don't wanna see it. I'm going to rest."
Chad took the box and placed it inside the wastebasket. Urahara sighed, such a waste of good condoms.
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Christmas started and ended with a snap. After the group came back from their trip at Ichigo's place, they were bombarded with gigs and photo shoots. Ichigo was the busiest of them all, since he had a fashion show in February; he had to have his measurements taken for the clothes. He thinks it sucks, but was glad Senna wasn't there when they took his measurements, it was bad enough he had to practice with her in the early weeks of said month.
Rukia wasn't doing too hot either in the relaxing category. She finally had an offer from Ukitake that her manga is going to be made into a tankouban, which means more work for her than before. She was immensely happy, considering that her birthday is coming up since it's near January and that it would be great news when her brother visits again.
The two weren't able to see each other for quite some time, same goes with the group, but it was okay in a sense thought Rukia. A little time off for them could help.
In fact, it helped a lot with her situation with Ichigo. They brushed off the kissing incident last time and went back to interacting normally like before. But Rukia admitted to herself that it was hard not thinking about it, so she was thankful for this, for them not hanging out for awhile and to adjust.
In fact, she misses him—no kissing incident involved. She misses him like she misses him before. So, basically all is well. She gently rubbed her bracelet again with her thumb—a habit she has now acquired ever since Ichigo gave her that thing.
New Year came, and she spent the festivity of it this time at her Aunt's place, in exchange for her not spending time with them during Christmas. It was fun; they had noodles that night and watched TV where the countdown is celebrated.
The Shinigamis played for that countdown concert, which Rukia, Hinamori and Unohana watched.
Earlier they did some cleaning, lots and lots of cleaning and it took most of Rukia's time. But then again, it wasn't as if she had any work for this time of day, Ukitake is after all a kind boss. She mentally noted to get something for his superior after all this.
"He gave you that?" Hinamori giggled and examined the bracelet. It wasn't just any ordinary bracelet, it was made of pure silver and her name was carved inside it. And the designs were so intricate, the details of every snowflake magnificently carved around it.
"Yeah, and all he got from me is some bag." She smirked and continued proudly. "But I wouldn't call it cheap; it has some chappy designs on it."
"That was nice." Hinamori sighed, as if Rukia is telling her some kind of fairytale.
"I wish he said that, I don't know what's his problem with chappy anyway? Geez, the guy doesn't have any taste." Rukia pouted and leaned down on the tatami mat. "I got cool stuff from the others too… I left them at home... because they're not really travel friendly, other than Hitsugaya's here. "She pointed to her backpack, where a keychain with her name on it was dangling.
"Hitsugaya-kun gave you that?!" Hinamori squealed. "Yes." Rukia smiled.
"Oh, I so envy you!" She wailed. "Hold your horses, cousin of mine, the group pitched in to give you something too." She handed to him a peach colored journal with her name on the cover. "Here. They said you could use it in you accounting stuff and jotting notes…"
Hinamori hugged the journal with all her might. "I'm not done yet." Rukia took a small box from her bag. "Here, this came from the Hitsugaya himself. He figured you may need a pen for the journal."
"Oh, oh, this is heaven!" Hinamori sighed and plopped beside Rukia on the mat.
"It is, hand me an orange will ya?"
"Okay. Here." Hinamori turned to look to her cousin, as she fiddled with her new—also peach colored—pen. "Anyway, you haven't given to me the full details of your trip back at Ichigo's. Was it fun?"
Rukia chuckled. "His family is fun, I like that… I never get to experience that…"
Hinamori smirked slyly. "At least, you get to share with him. He's willing to share his family to you anyway."
"What do you mean by that?"
"Nothing really…"
"Spit it out."
"I mean, sure he'll let you experience that, knowing Ichigo, he's been really generous you know."
"Yeah… I suppose… I'm not, you know, bad right?"
"What do you mean?"
Rukia sighed and sat up. "I mean, he's been giving me a lot of things, doing things for me and all… And I haven't given anything back to him…"
Hinamori shook her head. "No you're not. You're just thinking too much." Hinamori peeled an orange. "Here, why don't we just enjoy the festivities and watch okay?"
"Right." Rukia nodded and popped a piece of orange in her mouth.
"3…2…1… HAPPY NEW YEAR!!" The TV came and fireworks were shown on the screen, the cousins looked at each other and greeted a 'happy new year, and then ran towards Unohana to greet her too.
--------------------------
The New Year's party had been a blast, they all did well and was glad to get a decent amount for the hard work they have done. The after after countdown party lasted up until 4:30 am, and would have lasted some more if only the people around weren't too intoxicated to fall asleep. The others, which included Hisagi, Hitsugaya and Chad, fell asleep on their dressing room then and there. Ichigo thought he would fight his sleep for now and opted to visit Rukia.
It was already 5:00 am in the morning, there were no traffic and the snow had stopped falling since the other night so the roads were pretty cleared of any white burdens.
He had met with disappointment when he learned she wasn't there but was grateful for the old man who owned the place for telling him that she was at her cousin's place. He bid the old man goodbye after thanking him and drove straight towards Hinamori's house.
"Rukia." Ichigo came as soon as he saw the petite young woman. He was happy, he got to see her again, after all those works they had to do that kept them busy; he can finally hang out with her.
"Hey, Ichigo." Rukia slurred, as she opened the door for him. Last night was exhausting, Hinamori and her stayed up late to watch more after countdown events on TV. "Come on in. How did you know I was staying here at Hinamori's?" She inquired and opened the door for him to fully enter.
"I came by your apartment; the owner said you weren't there since yesterday… So I figured you'd be here." Ichigo chuckled and removed his coat.
"Oh right, Hinamori, Aunt Unohana and I watched you guys over at the television…" Rukia yawned and proceeded towards the kitchen, Ichigo following behind her.
"Yeah, I came from the studio… Hisagi and the others are still sleeping there." Ichigo sat down on the kitchen chair. "We were exhausted to hell and didn't have the strength to go home last night—also the fact that the guys decided to have fun at the after countdown party…"
Rukia poured him some orange juice. "I see, so you haven't had breakfast yet." She looked at him. "Wait, aren't you supposed to be sleeping too? You're exhausted and everything right?"
"It's okay really, I can handle myself. Besides, I would like to finish the rest of my sleep in a comfortable bed." He sipped on to some juice. "What about you? You look tired too."
Rukia sat down in front of him, poking on some orange leftovers. "Oh, right, Hinamori and I decided to party it away last night, we watched the midnight parties live on TV until the station's signing off. She's still in her room, sleeping." She yawned again. "Aunt Unohana's tired too so I let her sleep more rather than waking her up."
"Some New Year eh? I didn't even get to think or write a resolution." Ichigo scoffed.
"Tell me about it, I don't have time for that either." Rukia's head bobbed sideways.
"Hey."
"Hmm?"
"Nothing."
"…"
"How was Christmas and New Year here then?"
"It's great, a bit different but then again, a bit common too... But either way, it's great." Rukia forced a small smile as exhaustion got the better of her facial muscles.
"So you really love it here then?" Ichigo smirked.
Rukia raised an eyebrow. "I've loved it here ever since I met you guys okay?"
Ichigo smirked even more. "Oh, so you love us then?"
Rukia growled in frustration, she wasn't really all that 'in a happy mood' today since her head was throbbing like mad, like she was having a hang over, only she didn't drink anything last night. "Yes, yes enough already, yes, I love you!"
And she stopped; her eyes wide open momentarily kicking off her headache. "Uh…" She coughed.
Although it wasn't anything like that, the moment those words came out of her mouth, it was like… real. Like she really meant what she said, and directed it to him. She cursed inside, it must be the effect of the kiss last Christmas; she should stop thinking that way about it, because she agreed it was nothing.
She rubbed the back of her neck and slump her forehead on the table. "If I don't love you guys, then I should have kicked all of your asses a long time ago." She tried to save the conversation, and hopefully, he won't notice anything.
Ichigo scoffed. "Yeah… I figured you would have done that if you hated us… you are a bit bitchy after all."
Rukia glared at him. "Why you… Whatever. You're just lucky; I'm not in any mood to fight off a senseless battle with you, orange twerp."
"Midget." Ichigo slump his head on the table also, moving a bit to face Rukia.
"You are so annoying."
Ichigo just raised an eyebrow and smirked as he watched Rukia's eyes slowly close and she fell asleep in an instant.
He admitted, when Rukia said the words 'I love you.' It almost felt so real, like it was directed to him, and she really meant it. He tried so hard not to show that he somewhat blushed at her statement and covered his feeling of goose bumps in his skin.
But then she cleared it, maybe he was just thinking too much after the kissing incident. It was his fault in the first place, but it wasn't his fault when she kissed back… but then again, he should probably lay off the topic already before it gets worse, like what happened now.
Soon, the two fell asleep in the kitchen, their heads resting on the table.
------------------------------
"You're kidding right?"
"I'm not, when did I ever kid?"
Rukia pondered over that question for awhile and then sighed. Byakuya's right, when did he ever kid, or even laugh for that matter? He was like a pole, a giant, steady and stern pole.
The petite girl sat down on her orange mat. She got that one from a small thrift store, and instantly fell in love with it. She didn't have any couches lying about in her apartment in the first place, and only resulted to her sitting on the floor that's why she decided to buy a mat to sit on so she won't be placing her ass on a cold ground.
Oh right, back to what she was talking about with her brother.
"That would be so cool Bya-nii, I thought of all times you can't come… But that's good." She grinned aware that her brother can't see her.
"I was supposed to have a meeting in Australia… but then again, I cancelled the whole thing off." Byakuya came from the other line, where a couple of paper shuffling could be heard. Rukia figured that he was still doing some paperwork; he is a bit of a workaholic.
"Are you sure that's okay? I mean, we could always celebrate next time…"
"No, I already called it off, and that's it, it's not that of a hassle... and I did promise I'd see you on your birthday." Byakuya's indifferent tone came, but Rukia knew, no matter how cold his voice may sound, he was happy inside and quite gentle actually.
"That would be great then, should I pick you up in the airport again?" Rukia inquired as she stirred her instant noodles. "No. I'll just be heading there, and then we would go out and dine somewhere…" Byakuya placed down his pen as soon as he had finished signing some documents. "I'll be going now. See you in a week okay?"
"Yes take care, Nii-sama… I have wonderful news for you when you come here." She smiled and bid her goodbyes before pressing the cancel button on her phone.
Kuchiki Rukia would be turning twenty three on January 14, which is next week, and her brother had just confirmed to her that he would be able to visit, and spend time with her.
She definitely misses the guys back at home. Lately, Orihime and the others weren't able to send any mail to her and so did she, maybe because they were both busy. After all, the holidays are the busiest time of the year. Orihime, Uryuu and Tatsuki did send them some images of their Christmas party back at home, and that made her nostalgic even more. What she noticed however was that Renji was nowhere to be seen in that party. She thought he was either absent, or wasn't able to join the picture.
She would have to ask Orihime later on about that.
Right now, she's happy, and she has loads of work to do. Ichigo is back at Isane's place again, for some fashion measurements—the Gondora fashion week, which will transpire on February.
Hisagi and Hitsugaya are busy trying to tie up another single. Apparently, the song Ichigo had been doing for months now had been put on hold, so the two decided, they should try making some substitute ones until the carrot top finally finishes the damn thing. Chad I going through exams right now and is going to graduate around march.
Yoruichi and Urahara had been busy about some things, but the others wouldn't want to know for fear of learning about it in case it's perverted.
Just another week, and then it'll be the big day; she will spend her birthday with her brother and tell her the news about her manga.
-----------------------------
"So, Senna… I thought you were going to introduce me to…"
"I know, I know… I just don't have the time Chizuru, why don't you exert some effort as well? Try to find yourself someone instead of relying everything to me." Senna grumbled as she fixed her hair.
Chizuru, the short red haired and bespectacled lesbian friend of Senna pouted. "Well, I don't know what's up with women these days, why can't they see that I am much better than a man?"
"You just don't have luck, sorry for you." Senna chuckled harshly. "You're just the one having problems, not them. Now, stop whining about yourself and focus your attention to me. I need to look pretty today. Ichigo's coming and I want to sweep him off his feet."
"Right, sorry about that." Chizuru took the hairspray from the table and spread it evenly around Senna's purple tresses. "I don't know what you see in him anyways, he's always grumpy, and has that weird hair color."
"That's what makes him feisty." Senna purred, her eyes closed to avoid irritation from the spray. "I have been in his tracks for how long now, he'll eventually give in to me."
Chizuru shook her head and dropped the now empty can of hair spray in the trash bin. "That's what I have been trying to say, you've been almost literally up his ass for how long, and you still believe he'd come for you? Last time I checked, he has his eyes on someone."
Senna glowered. "You mean that manga freak? She's just a diversion; Ichigo wouldn't even lay a finger on her!"
"How would you know that? They've been almost impossible to separate. They have been flooding the tabloids for quite some time, and not to mention, Ichigo's overnight's at her place. Also the fact that she seems to have grown quite attached with the group." Chizuru loved teasing Senna, oh well, she long knew she can't have her; she might as well piss her off to death.
Senna glared at her friend. "She's just a common slut." The purple haired woman sighed and stood up. "Chizuru, I swear… Are you against me or with me?"
"I'm neither Chizuru grinned. "I'm just stating a fact."
"Whatever. Anyway, that Rukia—or whatever her name is, like I said she's just a common slut. I bet she's just sleeping her way into the guys… She's just temporary entertainment… she probably does that to get air time and to sell her stupid mangas." Senna made her way towards the studio.
Chizuru looked at the tabloid written months back. This Kuchiki Rukia, Senna may be wrong about her, she looks like a fine and hardworking young woman, respectable at that. And she seems quite interesting. Whatever it was, Chizuru definitely wanted to know.
-------------------------------
"I can't go right now Ichigo… Uh, I'll be meeting Bya-nii today. And we'll probably be out for the whole day too." Rukia sighed.
"What?! Why? I mean, come on, I mean…" Ichigo wasn't in a too good mood today; first off, Senna had finally known his schedule time for practice for Gondola fashion show, and he was forced to endure 2 hours of death defying conversations with her.
He had agreed to the damn thing when he knew and they said that he would only have one time of practicing with Senna, but then because she knew of his schedule, she had been coming there even if it wasn't her order of the day. It all started in that one faithful day last week, where she entered high and proud with her assistant Chizuru tailing behind her.
She greeted him with so much sweetness in her voice, he thought he would puke, and her hair reeking of poisonous gas—god, he doesn't want to know what she put in it—added to his nausea.
He was fucking surprised as to why she was there, and soon got her answer when Isane apologized about Senna looking up at his records and schedule.
The fucking woman was a crazy stalker!
"I really, really need to talk to you!" Ichigo almost whimpered.
"Can't the others do it? I mean, I really can't Ichigo, stop being so inconsiderate." Rukia almost growled. She didn't like the way Ichigo was being demanding, but then again, she was kinda flattered that he wanted to talk to her and only her.
"I'm very, very frustrated to hell right now!" Ichigo gritted his teeth.
"Well so am I, if you don't shut up and accept the fact that I simply just can't go because I'm going to meet up with my brother!" Rukia gritted back.
Screw Byakuya damn it! Was what Ichigo really wanted to say but then instead yelled a: "Oh yeah, well, see if I care midget, I won't talk to you ever again!"
Oh that was so fucking mature.
Rukia raised an eyebrow. "Ingrate!" She yelled and shut her phone.
Now what the hell was that about?
"Stupid orange haired bastar—Nii-sama!" Rukia stopped dead in her tracks as Byakuya towered her and raised an inquisitive eyebrow. "Is something the matter Rukia?"
"Oh nothing, nothing at all… You must be tired, why don't you rest for awhile and then we could.."
"That's not necessary. I had a nice flight today, and got a private shuttle on the way, not to mention someone had to carry my luggage, and they should since I'm paying… and…"
Rukia deadpanned. Oh right, her brother was not any normal person actually, she must always remember that no matter how powerful her Brother is to her already, he is much more powerful than that.
So how come she has to live normally and he doesn't? Life isn't really fair she thought, as she remembered her perils in coming here alone and carrying her own bag, and not to mention, not even a first class ticke—wait a minute, that's been done and over with, no need to sulk or cry over spilled milk cause it's already on the ground, just let the freakin cats lick it… or you can always clean it.
"Right, so let's go then?"
"Sure. I know this nice place here… and oh…" Byakuya turned to look at his sister behind him, and gave her a small, tenny bitty smile. "Happy Birthday Rukia."
Rukia beamed and slid her arm onto Byakuya's.
This is the best birthday indeed, she thought.
--------------------------------------
"Are you against me Hisagi?" Ichigo sputtered.
"NO… I was just saying, you shouldn't have been that way to Rukia-chan… she is after all, going to meet her iron of a brother…" Hisagi continued playing with his console, not even bothering to look up at Ichigo.
"Like who gives a fuck about stiff brother anyway?" Ichigo pouted.
"You do." Hitsugaya came, a bowl of popcorn in his hands.
"And why would I be?"
Hisagi stopped playing and turned to look at Ichigo straight in the face. "Because you dum-dum, if you get on Rukia's bad side, then you get on big brother's bad side also, which I think is equivalent to: 'Hell for you'."
"I don't really care if I get on his bad side, he's just a prick." Ichigo slouched even more.
"That's the point. If you get in his 'hellish' side, then there will be no guarantee you could ask for Rukia's hand in marriage." Hitsuagaya snickered, and the orange haired young man choked on his popcorn. "What the fuck? Cough, I, cough, I'm not asking for anyone's hand in marriage!"
"Oh, you aren't? I assumed you were... But anyway, it's an honest mistake." Hitsugaya snickered and Hisagi went back to his game.
"Why the heck are you frustrated about anyway?" The white haired boy inquired.
"He had a rough week; Senna's been in his ass for the past few days." Hisagi snickered, and Ichigo's skin crawled at Hisagi's choice of words. "Shit Hisagi, don't say anything about her crawling up my ass. The girl would probably oblige to that even if it's impossible."
"Oh, sorry your cockiness. We can't help it now can't we? We're so gorgeous, girls like that flock to us."
Hitsugaya then sipped on to his coke. "Anyway, you should just endure it, it's not so bad." He smirked. "So you ranted to Rukia-chan just because she can't come and talk to you."
"Uh… yeah?" Ichigo lowered his head.
"Stupid really… You should apologize to her… not now, of course, she's with her brothe—oh shit." Hitsugaya growled.
Hisagi and Ichigo looked at him. "What?"
"No wonder her brother is here." Hitsugaya slapped his forehead. "What? Why?" Ichigo almost yelled in curiosity.
"It's her birthday today you moron." Hitsugaya sighed and shook his head. "It's her birthday and you fought with her because you're a selfish bastard."
"WHAT?!!" Ichigo growled and stood up. "It's her birthday?! Why didn't she even tell me?!"
"She would have, if you probably didn't rant to her like a demanding idiot you are." Hitsugaya chomped off to some popcorn.
"SHIT! What are you guys so calmly sitting about? Don't you like you know, get her a gift too or something?" Ichigo panicked and walked in circles inside the living room.
"We already have something to give to her Ichigo… apparently, we know when her birthday is and decided to get her something till the said date, we just didn't realize that it's today." Hisagi smirked.
"How come you guys know and I don't?"
"You of all people should know bird brain… Your father told us, Ukitake is his friend, and you know Ukitake? Right, he's Rukia's publisher and editor." Hitsugaya answered sarcastically.
Ichigo groaned, great, of all people to know first, it had to be his father. "But still, she could have told me."
Hisagi sighed. "You know how Rukia is… besides, it's not her fault for forgetting to mention it anyway, with all the things going on, the jobs and stuff, we were all too busy back then… Just be grateful we knew because of your father."
Great, just great, now her father knows her than him. This was freakin great, sarcastically speaking.
--------------------------------------
"I am glad to hear that you are doing well with your work Rukia." Byakuya sliced off his steak with grace, Rukia and he ended up eating in a classy restaurant, much to Rukia's awkwardness, but she can't really complain anyway.
She's just glad that her brother is spending her birthday with her, period.
"You were mumbling something when I came to your house earlier Rukia." Byakuya came, which surprised her a bit. "Uh.. yes, but it was nothing, you shouldn't bother yourself with such things nii-sama."
"Oh, I'm not bothering myself with anything Rukia, I was simply asking…." He looked at her straight in the eye. "Does it, by any chance, concern a certain orange haired guy?"
Rukia swore she almost choked. It was as if her brother knew it was Ichigo, had he been eavesdropping before he came in? Either that or he was plain psychic.
"Uhm… no…I mean, yes, it was Ichigo, but it's not at all important."
"But it is, I remember you spent your Christmas at their place…So…" Byakuya sliced another piece of his steak. "…how was it?"
Rukia did a complete flashback, it was fun, it was fun until she came to the part where she kissed back Ichigo, and that made her flush—HARD.
Byakuya noticed this, and raised an eyebrow; he knew there was something going on, it was bound to happen sooner or later, that Ichigo kid must have done something to make Rukia react like that, since well, she never reacted that way before about the orange twerp. "Well?"
Rukia almost squeaked. "Uhm, it was the usual. Kurosaki—erm, Ichigo's father was funny and nice, and then his little sisters were very sweet too… and uh, there really is nothing out of the ordinary that happened Nii-sama." Yeah, except the part where he kissed you, and then you graciously kissed back—how embarrassing—and now you're thinking about it, even after you already decided not to think about it and that it's nothing.
Having a conscience is sometimes a pain.
Byakuya resorted to not interrogate his little sister anymore, because she might die of embarrassment or whatever that is. And besides, he wouldn't want to see her squirming on her very special day; he could always juice the whole truth out on a certain Kurosaki Ichigo.
He did warn the orange haired boy, that he is a very powerful man, and he's not lying about it. So if he does something like torture the guy to confess, Ichigo should know by now that that is to be expected from him.
He had in fact been eyeing the bracelet she fiddled with her thumb, that's why he was forced to ask him something about the boy. He knew it was from him, he can almost feel it. He smirked; oh he will so love taunting this boy.
"Uhm, Bya-nii, anyway, how about you? How are you back at home?" Rukia decided to break the silence that is about to engulf their space.
"It is still the same. Work here and there, everything's been going well, like it should be."
"I see… Where did you spend you Christmas and New Year?"
Byakuya looked straight at Rukia's amethyst ones. "At home."
Rukia gasped. "You were alone?"
"Not really, Senbonsakura was there with me all the time."
"Ah, good ol' Senbonsakura-chan." Rukia smiled, remembering her brother's golden Labrador, always so loyal to Byakuya. "But isn't that, I mean, a bit lonely? You could have told me, I could have done something to get home.."
"But you can't." He drank some of his red wine and placed the glass back down on the table gracefully. "And besides, I liked this year's Christmas, peaceful and noiseless… totally different from the clacking chickens I am encountering every morning at work and at meetings."
Rukia stifled a laugh and then placed down her steak knife. "But then, I still think it's lonely."
"It's not lonely… just, quiet." Byakuya gave out a small smirk. "Because you weren't there."
Rukia smiled softly and both continued their meal.
-----------------------------
"Shit, she could have at least told me that it was her birthday! I'm not some kind of mental genius, psychic whatever to know what's in her mind!" Ichigo grumbled as he walked around the mall for awhile. After ten rounds, he still didn't know what to get her.
He rubbed the back of his head and leaned on to a glass panel. The place was about to close in twenty minutes, as it is said by the announcer. "I give up, I'm going to show up in her place, and then holler at her for not telling me when her birthday is, and then greet her." He smiled. "Yep, that should be a nice enough plan. I get to greet her then be all rude to her."
"Uh, young man, could you help me for awhile please?" An old man tapped Ichigo on the shoulders. Ichigo turned. "What can I do to help?"
"Could you be nice enough to pull that steel there down so I can close my store?" The old man came. Ichigo obliged and was about to pull the lever down when something caught his eye. "Perfect." He smiled and turned to the old man again. "Ei, old man, you don't mind me buying something from you even if you're already closed right?"
-----------------------------------
After dinner, the siblings decided to get some coffee first near the skating rink.
"I think I'll go try skating for awhile. You wanna come Bya-nii?" Rukia stood up and stretched.
"No. I'll be happily fine here. I don't need to engage myself in that." Byakuya replied sternly and sipped on to his hot cocoa.
"Che, old man." Rukia whispered and pouted.
"I Heard that." Byakuya came again, without looking and continued sipping on to his coffee.
Rukia sighed and ran towards the skate rentals.
Kurosaki Ichigo had been having a bad day, he so swore. Earlier today, he's been pestered and seduced by Senna—which didn't really worked on him, but instead he wanted to beat the living daylights out of the girl so she would just quit it already—then Rukia wasn't able to talk to him—or listen to him rant—and then he learned it was Rukia's birthday today and panicked about the whole thing, lastly, it was already going well, if only his car didn't struck dead at the middle of the road—causing a bit of traffic—and he had to walk all the way towards Rukia's house after calling a tow truck to get his car and that he'll pick it up tomorrow.
He made a small shortcut at the park and past the public skating rink. He glanced a bit at the skaters and then his eyes wondered around the benches and then—holy shit is that Byakuya?
His eyes widened. It can't be. But, it looks so much like that prick of a brother of Rukia's. He decided to be curious about this and approached the guy. If he wasn't Byakuya, its fine, if he is, he really didn't know what he'll do.
He narrowed his eyes as he tried to find out if it is really Byakuya in the stinking flesh. And he is. Great, he should just walk away and then… wait, that means Rukia's here, where is she?
Ichigo turned to look at the skating rink when someone grabbed him by the shoulders and dragged him away from the skating rink's sight.
"Kurosaki Ichigo." The voice came; Ichigo almost peed in his pants. He swore it was the voice of the devil, and is going to force him to trade his soul for eternal power.
"I don't want to trade my soul; I don't even want eternal power!" He almost yelled.
"What would I want your filthy soul you buffoon?" Byakuya came and snorted.
"Ack, Byakuya!"
"That is Mr. Kuchiki to you."
"It sounds weird, I'd prefer Byakuya."
"I don't even know why my sister hangs out with an uncivilized monkey like you."
"Oi, hey! You're not Mr. Congeniality either!"
Byakuya closed his eyes and then shook his head. "Rukia is with me, if that is what you want to ask."
Ichigo blushed. "Wha—I wasn't going to ask that!"
The older Kuchiki eyed the wrapped box on Ichigo's hand. "What is that then if I may ask?"
Ichigo glowered and hid the box behind him. "None of your business."
Byakuya turned around to look at his sister, skating. "As if I would give time to make you my business…" He glanced back at Ichigo. "But if it involves Rukia, then by all means, it's my business, period."
Ichigo's grip on the gift tightened as he glanced also at Rukia skating on the rink alone. "I'm still not telling."
"Very well, I would just like to ask if you did what we talked about before Christmas?"
"Huh? What the hell do you mean?"
"Have you forgotten?" Byakuya scoffed. "Well, such low intelligence and memory is to be expected from you… but anyway, I am talking about you making her happy during the holidays."
"Oh. That… well yeah of course? What do you think of us? Oh, wait a minute, don't answer that anymore." Ichigo grumbled. "Yeah, she had loads of fun."
"And also, about you not doing anything to her…"
"What the fuck? Of course not! Besides, she's not my type."
"Really?"
"Y-Yeah."
Well not really, Ichigo thought. Okay, so he lied, she's definitely he's type—or what he likes for that matter. He wouldn't be like this if she wasn't. And if he remembered clearly, he already admitted that he loves her okay? So quit it.
But of course, since Byakuya, the over protective—but won't admit it—and stiff brother of Rukia is in front of him, a few lies here and there won't hurt.
Byakuya almost—just ALMOST—smirked.
Correction Ichigo, Byakuya is a human lie detector.
"You didn't do anything to her like try to kiss her or something stupid like that and blame it in the season or something stupid like it was an accident?" Byakuya came again.
'Oohh... he's good.' Ichigo thought, but now's not the time to be impressed. He's the one being interrogated for gosh sakes! And it's freakin' hard!
"N-No."
'Actually, I already kissed her you stiff ass! Ha! Let's see you do something about that?! Gwahahahahaha!' Was what he really, as in really wanted to say in this Kuchiki's face—but can't.
But what's the use? Saying it, or not saying it, the guy probably doesn't believe the things he's saying. And is probably already resolved with the fact that he is a pervert and might have done something to his sister.
"Very well, I will accept your answer as the truth… But that doesn't mean I already trust you." Byakuya came. "Because I don't."
Ichigo raised an eyebrow. Oh, he so wanted to kill him. What's up with that? 'Accept his answer as the truth?' what the hell is this?
"So uhm… Rukia." Ichigo pointed towards the skating girl who is by now looking around for her brother and had opted to take of her skates in the bench in which they sat awhile ago.
"I'm still with her." Byakuya stepped forward and went towards his sister. "Now off you go and be obedient for once in your life."
Ichigo gaped. He's really staying in his 'hate' list.
But for now, maybe he should just wait for her instead, wait until that prick of a brother of hers is already gone. And he's got her such a nice gift too.
-------------------------
The siblings finally arrived at Rukia's place, quite content for the day.
"You're going home this late?" The petite raven haired young woman gaped at her brother.
"Yes, I believe that's what I have already told you." Byakuya came, his tone indifferent. Rukia knew better than to argue, but to let Byakuya off at this hour was something she really isn't fond of. I mean, yeah Byakuya can take care of himself, it's not like he can't protect himself or something like that, but the thing is, can't he just wait till morning then he can go home?
But Byakuya has his mind set into going home now. And when he wants to do it now, no one can stop him.
"You have work?" Rukia asked again.
"Not really." He came.
"See? Why can't you just rest and then leave tomorrow? It's not like you're in a hurry."
"There are some things that are more important than me staying here for the night… It's your birthday; you should make the most of it."
"What do you mean?"
"Have you lost all manners that you can't even acknowledge someone's decision anymore?"
Rukia stifled a pout and then stood up straight. "Uh, no Byakuya Nii-sama… I was just…"
Byakuya patted her head. "I know what you mean, and you meant well, but I'm leaving now." He turned to leave. "I'll contact you when I get home."
"Okay, be careful nii-sama, thank you very much for today." Rukia gave Byakuya a hug, and he looked around, a little embarrassed before doing anything like hugging back.
Because he is Kuchiki Byakuya, ruthless and stiff in the business world but loving—and still stiff—to his sister.
Rukia watched as her brother stepped in a limousine—the company car he called to pick him up—and rode on.
"Where will be heading no Mr. Kuchiki?" The chauffeur asked.
"Take me to the hotel Robbins, I'll leave tomorrow." He answered back fluidly.
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As soon as she can no longer see the car, Rukia sighed and decided to call it a day and finally rest her tired bones. She made her way towards the stairs to her apartment and tripped.
She yelped a little and cursed, who the hell placed this…this… she doesn't even know what she tripped over but she better not broke anything or someone will pay.
She tried standing up and heard a groan from the… whatever it is.
Her eyes widened; bins or rather, non-living things don't groan. Oh god, what is it that she tripped on?
The offender grumbled, and then cursed as it held a lump forming on its head—from where Rukia bumped and tripped.
"What the hell—Rukia?" The voice came.
As if on cue, Rukia didn't scream, she grabbed her purse and whacked the offender senseless.
"Ow—hey! Shit! Sto—shi—stop it RUKIA!" Ichigo hollered and quickly grabbed Rukia's wrist to stop her from whacking her to death.
"Ichigo?" Rukia gawked.
"What the hell does it look like to you?" Ichigo glowered, quite mad at the turn of events.
The petite girl glowered back. "What the hell are you doing sitting in front of my apartment door when it's all dark out here?!" She grunted. "I freakin' tripped on you!"
Ichigo remembered the earlier pain on his head—minus the purse pummeling—and groaned again. "Right, I know that… Thanks for the lump on the head by the way." He answered sarcastically and did not stand up, Rukia still sitting there in front of him.
"So, how was your day?" Ichigo inquired, raising an eyebrow.
"It was fine…. How about you?"
"It was hell."
"Are you still going to rant about that that's why you're here?"
Ichigo thought for awhile and then shook his head. "You know, that would have been a great idea, since well you didn't entertain me with it earlier…" He sighed and slouched back on the wall. "…But no, I'm not here for that anymore… I came to uh… wait, why did I come agai—oh, right… Happy Birthday."
Rukia was taken aback that's for sure. She gasped a bit and then blushed, totally thankful for the lack of luminosity in the place. Ichigo scowled, unaware of the redness of Rukia's cheeks, but had one on his own anyway.
"What? No thank you?"
"Uh.. oh, right…uh, thank you."
Ichigo scoffed. "Oh, great how sincere." He chuckled a bit. "You owe me one midget; you didn't even tell me that your birthday is today."
Rukia grumbled. "So I forgot okay?" She shifted away from him. "Why do you have to make such fuzz about it anyway? You sound like a kid having tantrums because he's not invited to some children's party."
"Che, shut up midget… Why don't you try to be nice will ya? I even got you a gift."
"Oh."
He handed to her a medium sized box wrapped in purple paper, and Rukia accepted it. She stared at it when Ichigo talked again. "well aren't you going to open it?"
She raised an eyebrow, "You're excited. Why don't you open it?"
"Ha?" You're the one who's supposed to open it idiot, you're the birthday celebrant."
"I will if you stop breathing down my neck and stop telling me to open it already."
Silence.
"Fine." Ichigo growled. "Open it in your own pace for all I care."
Rukia snickered, she could get used to winning against him everyday. She tore off the wrapper slowly. "What were you doing on the floor anyway? Usually, normal people wait by standing up in front of the door."
Ichigo flushed. "Uh, what is it to you?"
"Why are you so defensive? I was only asking." Rukia smirked again.
The carrot top grumbled. "I…I was waiting for you till 9pm… I kinda fell asleep."
Rukia stopped tearing off the wrapper and turned to look at Ichigo. "You were waiting for two hours here outside?! Can't you be anymore stupid?!"
"So, I came early, fell asleep waiting, big freakin deal?! It's not like I'm stupid you dwarf." Ichigo frowned.
Rukia shrugged, and proceeded with tearing off the wrapper. When she finally uncovered the thing, she went squealing like a kid who got her most loved toy on Christmas. "Kyaaa!!!! The platinum edition markers!!! Ichigo!!! Thank you!!!" She gushed and then wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Ow, hey, you're choking me!!" Ichigo gasped. "Rukia, you psycho, let g--!!"
"You got me these markers! Oh thank you! Thank you!" She pranced around, grabbing his arms.
"Wow, you're hyper." Ichigo mumbled and smirked. "Let's go in, I'll make you something, anything, you wanna eat?" Rukia pulled him as she opened her apartment door.
An envelope slipped out of the sides.
"What's that?" Ichigo pointed.
"Mail.. I guess…" She picked it up and closed the door behind her as soon as the two of them are inside. Ichigo took off his coat and shoes.
"It's a note back home." Came Rukia. "Orihime sent me a note from home."
Ichigo walked back towards her. 'What's it say?"
Rukia read it silently and beamed. "I'm going home."
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Kya, short, I know… but again, had to cut it sorry for the delay, you know the drill.
Anyway, about the kiss, I decided they act maturely about it, since well, they are not gushing kids anymore. But, don't get the 'mature act' wrong, it doesn't mean they really consider the kiss as nothing. Rukia hopes it's nothing, but at the same time thinks it should be something. Yes, she is still overly and majorly confused here, unlike Ichigo. Ichigo on the other hand accepts the 'mature act' to not anymore complicate things for the girl. Rukia strikes me, even in the anime as an overly confused girl but try hard not to look like one for it is a sign of weakness, and does not want to burden anyone. And Ichigo, faces his fears head on—with the help of Rukia though—but hides it to not burden anyone else. So that's why he's much more accepting with his feelings, but doesn't tell because well, you know the drill. In short, they are the same in a way… ack, I'm rambling, I hope you guys get what I'm trying to say... The Renji dumping will be 2 chapters away… and we're nearing it.. And it'll be fun. Byakuya visits, yay! And he doesn't know about the kissing incident, but feels it! OOHH! Byakuya you devil you, you're such a psychic! I like Byakuya better than before now because he's being the overprotective-but-won't-admit-it- brother of all time. Oh another thing, it was easy manipulating Rukia with beliefs and customs here since well, she's basically new to the country and all. Remember her date with Kaien? Kazukagi told me that in Japanese customs, it was practically rape when Kaien forced her inside the photo booth, and Rukia doesn't know that fact and thus she believed Ichigo's excuse in kissing her—in a way. I'm rambling again. Let's see what she does— and Byakuya— when Ichigo confesses to her that it was just a load of bull shit. Ahahaha AU people, AU! So please, don't flame me for it. Thank you guys for the support. Oh, The Chizuru thing was supposed to be thrown in for fun, but I decided, she'll have a nice character here anyway. It's not going to be long, but it's going to be significant.