More Romantic Bleach Drabbles

Disclaimer: Bleach belongs to Kubo Tite, not to me.

Author's Note: So I fail for not posting yesterday (Housework and a short nap due to my sinus pills knocking me out kept me busy!). I also fail for giving you guys another psychotically short drabble. I blame Ichigo. It's all his fault!

Many thanks to my readers and reviewers capslock-nanao (I beg your forgiveness for the last drabble? HaHa), brendabond, rainy-lullaby, StarPrincess999, PunkRockHolly, Sajintmm, eelgirl13 (Random is usually my specialty!), darklover, mrsbieber, and ZareenBlack!


28. Vulnerable

Ichigo sat and watched his sleeping companion, Yamada Hanatarou. The two of them had been traversing the underground sewer system of Seireitei along with a third companion, Shiba Ganju. The three of them were travelling together to save another Shinigami from her unfair execution, with Hanatarou tagging along after being used as a failed hostage.

'Thank god for that. He sure is handy in a pinch,' Ichigo thought as he continued to watch Hanatarou. Though he was weak compared to Ichigo and Ganju, Hanatarou had pulled through for Ichigo at the last moment by healing his injuries. 'Who knew such a pathetic and vulnerable looking guy could have such great healing abilities?' Ichigo thought, giving Hanatarou an uncharacteristically endearing smile since the two of them were all alone. Thankfully, Ganju had gone off to scout ahead while Ichigo and Hanatarou relaxed and recovered.

Ichigo was taking advantage of his time alone with Hanatarou to just enjoy his quiet company. Had the 4th Division Shinigami been awake, Ichigo would have felt awkward. But with Hanatarou asleep, it was easy for Ichigo just to watch him and protect him. The smaller Shinigami just bagged to be protected and Ichigo found that, despite only knowing him for such a short time, he wanted to be the one to protect the vulnerable Shinigami from anything and anything. He could not help himself. Hanatarou brought out all his fierce protective feelings. And Ichigo smiled knowing he did not mind feeling that way about the smaller man at all.