As promised, Chapter 35 of Fall
Previously on chapter 34:
"Are you done?" Ichigo looked down at her.
"Hey Ichigo, have you ever felt so confused sometimes?" She said back.
"Huh? Well yeah… a lot… because everybody always makes me confused… Why?"
"I feel that way today…. And I don't know why." Images of Miyako's sad face and Kaien's cold façade came in her mind. "I don't even know if curiosity and confusion mix."
Ichigo grumbled. "You know what, you just think too much, or maybe had too much sun that it seeped in that brain of yours." He tapped Rukia. "Or you could just be hungry." He chuckled and stood up.
Rukia opened her eyes to look at him and chuckled back. "You know, maybe you're right… I may just be hungry." She stretched her hands over to Ichigo. "A little help please."
The carrot top shook his head. "Geez, talk about lazy." He grabbed her arms and pulled her up.
"Thanks." She whispered and leaned her head over Ichigo's chest. "Aw geez, I'm so tired."
Ichigo held on to her and sighed. "You know what..?" He kneeled and carried Rukia in a bridal manner. "What the f—Ichigo! Put me down!"
"Stop squirming or I'll really drop you." Ichigo declared, a few blushes came in his cheeks with that bold move he made. "I'll just order us some food so you can relax your pretty little butt on the couch."
Rukia stopped fighting and just snuggled up to his chest, carefully hiding the blush in her own cheeks. "Yeah, you do that… Glad to know you still have brains."
PLOP!
"What the hell Ichigo! Don't you just drop me like a sack you moron!" Rukia fumbled on the couch, but then giving in to the soft pillows. Ichigo soon followed and sat down at the right side, phone in hand. "Shut up, I'm trying to order."
Rukia pouted and slammed her feet at Ichigo's lap. The carrot top glared at him after giving out an 'oof' sound and thus glaring at her.
The petite girl and the carrot top quietly rested on the couch as they wait for their food to come.
"You have incredibly medium sized feet despite your midget size. Ichigo gave Rukia a slight grin, while she in return let out her tongue and giving out a return insult before closing her eyes to rest a bit. Ichigo then rested his head on the couch while tapping Rukia's toes; the girl didn't seem to mind.
Rukia opened her eyes. "You know what?" She grinned. "I could get used to this." She finally said and plopped her head back on the couch pillow. Ichigo stared at her for awhile, registering what she had just said and chuckled inwardly. "Yeah.." He whispered. "Me too."
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. 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.
Title: Fall
Chapter 35 : That painful borderline
"You have got to be kidding me." Was all Kurosaki Ichigo could mutter out from his mouth. What did he do to deserve this kind of punishment? Did the god's hate him, or did he do something so awful in his past life?
It was bad enough that his poor excuse of a father barged in so early in the morning inside his studio, pulling him out of his bed and out of his room while he was half naked.
It was okay really, it was truly fine if not for the fact that his boxers got caught in static with the rug-his dad was dragging him by his arms- and decided to slip down exposing so much of him in front of Rukia—well, almost.
Yuzu and Karin, who are completely used to such actions, decided to save the poor girl from being harassed by such a scene. So both of them took Rukia's hands and turned her in the other direction while Yuzu blabbed about desserts as a distraction.
Needless to say, Ichigo went beet red, and almost-almost killed his father with a flying kick that the goat chin was most proud of while screaming:
"THE TRAINING I DID WORKED WONDERS FOR YOUuuuuu!"
He quickly dressed up after that before his father comes back from the dead.
Turns out, his family got up early to bid him and rukia a good luck and goodbye, for today is the day that they are going to start hiking up at Urahara and Yoruichi's mountain house for their 'music' training.
Yeah right, the only music Urahara would hear would be the sound of the ambulance after he had finished with the lunatic of a manager, he mused.
They arrived around noon at the foot of the mountain where Urahara's rest house stood. And for some stupid luck, Urahara's car conked out and was unable to take them all the way up. Curses were heard from the group while Urahara brushed it away saying they'll just leave the car and hike the way up. Curses were heard again along with death threats from a certain orange haired young man.
Ichigo glanced at his side and saw the raven-haired young woman, trudging carefully up the trail. She was frowning, that was evident; in fact, he cannot blame her for being pissed. It was after all a freakin' crazy idea to go up the mountain for just training... let alone Rukia who's not even part of the band...
Which reminds him….
"Oi, oi... Urahara..." He quickened his pace and grabbed their manager by the collar.
The blond haired man gave out a strangled yelp and looked back at their juvenile lead singer. "What is it Kurosaki-kun?" He quickly smiled and waved his fan. "Is it so important that you have to almost choke me to death?"
Ichigo frowned and growled. "Like hell, I wasn't trying to kill you... on second thought, I have always been trying to kill you... but I don't think strangling you works... " He paused. "But anyway, why in God's name do we really have to take Rukia with us?"
Urahara looked back at him with a face that seems to be telling Ichigo: Are you stupid?
"Don't look at me like that you moron."
Urahara sighed hard, shaking his head.
"And don't fucking sigh like that either!" Ichigo bellowed.
"Ichigo, Ichigo... you really don't get it do you?" Urahara snapped his fan shut. "We're actually doing you a favor."-Ichigo opens his mouth to retaliate-"Ah, ah... You know you like the idea anyway... If it wasn't for your convincing powers, she wouldn't be here."
Ichigo grumbled, trying to rid the blush on his face. "She came mostly because I said there's a hot spring in your place…" He scoffed. "But what do you expect her to do for a week while we practice?"
"Don't worry Ichigo, I have that arranged." Urahara smiled and skipped away from the orange head.
"What the hell do you mean by that? OI! HEY URAHARA!" Ichigo followed, screaming his lungs off.
As soon as they set foot inside, Hisagi whistled. "Sweet, just pure sweetness." He then dropped his bags and looked around. "You weren't kidding when you said you had a majestic place Urahara."
Said manager was so proud of his self, he walked up the spiral staircase and held his head up high. "But of course, I wouldn't be called 'Urahara the great' if I don't flaunt it right?" He looked down at the others who were just now entering the house. "Now my people, throw a couple of claps around here will you?"
"Hell yeah." Hisagi clapped enthusiastically while Chad gave small ones. HItsugaya scoffed along with Yoruichi, who proceeded to throw her duffel bag at his fiancé, making him fall down the stairs. "Don't encourage him Hisagi…. I don't think any of you can handle once his head starts bloating."
"Anyway, I'm fucking tired…. Care to tell us where the rooms are?" Ichigo started scratching the back of his head. This wasn't a really 'cool' day, his legs hurt, and he's pretty much still sleepy. If Urahara is going to make them stay up and die while playing all day, he might as well get a good rest now for later.
"Alright impatient boy, second floor is where the rooms are. You don't have to share with anyone because it's mighty plenty…" Yoruichi narrowed her eyes. "..or unless you want to share it with someone, fine by me, I don't really mind."
The carrot top narrowed his eyes back and growled lowly, taking his bags and stomping upstairs with a huff.
"Such a nice young man Ichigo is." Hisagi giggled and placed his hands on Rukia's shoulders. Rukia chuckled. "It's like, every damn day something crawls up his ass and dies." The two laughed as they made their way up, amused at the hilarity that is Kurosaki Ichigo.
Clicking on her cellphone, Rukia decided to send Orihime and the others info about her 'sudden' trip with the group, as well as send them a few photos of the wonderful house. It was no use stressing out on her ruined schedule since she agreed to go with them anyway. Part of it was because she really liked the idea of soaking in the hot spring, and a private one at that!
"Ru-chan…" Hisagi peeked inside the petite girl's room. Rukia, jumped a bit in surprise and smiled at her friend. "Hisagi… anything the matter?"
"Oh nothing really, I just wanted to check up on you guys. And also, I just found out that there is this huge garden at the back, want to tag along and look around?"
The idea tickled Rukia's interest, and she immediately agreed, reaching out to Hisagi's outstretched hand, imitating a fairytale-like run. "This is silly." She giggled as she let herself be dragged out of her room. "Well yeah, but you know you like it." The dark haired man grinned back. "We should do this more often, you know prancing around and stuff."
"Don't tell me you're gonna break into a song." Rukia chuckled. "I think I just might." HIsagi declared, and began singing some tunes akin to the sound of music.
"So, do you have any idea who the other guests are?" Rukia curiously asked as she and Hisagi trailed the backdoor garden. "Nope, sorry princess, I too have no idea what goes on around here, besides us coming here and stuff.."
"Oh… I see." Rukia tilted her head a bit, while Hisagi examined her reaction more. "Why? Do you have anyone in mind?" He grinned. "Oh, no, not really." Rukia smiled back. "By the way, this is a really great garden… almost forest-like…" She paused. "Are you sure we're not lost?"
"Oh definitely not….YET." Hisagi smiled then paused.
Silence.
"What?" Rukia almost yelled. "Are you kidding? You definitely be kidding!"
"Relax Ru-chan, I remember where we came from…. "
"Really?"
Hisagi beamed, then frowned. "No… not really."
"It shouldn't be hard going back…I think." The petite girl looked back to where they came from. "We could just look at our tracks."
Hisagi looked down on the ground. "What tracks?" Rukia forced a smile. "Don't worry… it's just a backdoor garden." pause. "well, A HUGE backdoor garden."
"I know, we could just scream!" Hisagi declared as if he had invented something that will help prevent climate change. With a smug grin on his face, he prepares to yell his tonsils out, stretching his arms and then cupping his hands at both sides of his mouth. "Sen n-he hits rukia—oh sorry about that Ru-cha…"
Rukia is nowhere to be found. "Ru-chan?"
"HISAGI!" Rukia yelped, grabbing on to dear life at a root that's sticking out at the edge of a cliff. "HOLY SHI-! Ru-chan, how'd you get there?"
"You really want me to answer that?" Rukia growled back. "Oh fuck! Was that when I hit you? Sorry!" HIsagi paled and quickly planted himself on the ground to reach out to the girl. "Grab my hand!"
"I can't!" Rukia tried to hide her almost sobbing voice. "Just don't look down and Grab my hand already." Hisagi grunted and moved some more, making him almost fall off too.
Both screamed in surprise, mixed with horror.
"STOP MOVING!" Rukia already cried.
"STOP CRYING! YOU'RE MAKING ME NERVOUS!" Hisagi cried back.
Ichigo emerged from the bushes, along with Chad and Hitsugaya. "Will you two stop yelling? We can hear you back at th-holy cra-What the fuck are you two doing?"
"Oh, Ru-chan and I are just hanging around you know—WHAT THE HELL DOES IT LOOK WE'RE DOING? SAVE US!" Hisagi bellowed.
The three rushed to their side. Chad and Hitsugaya grabbed onto Hisagi's legs and pulled him as he in turn pulled Rukia out of the edge while Ichigo waited so he can fully grab the girl out.
The five of them exhaled deeply.
"Are you okay?" Ichigo quickly inquired the muddy girl. "yeah… I was already halfway with 'life flashing before my eyes' thing." She looked at the newcomers, "Oh and thanks a lot… you guys saved us."
"No problem. What exactly are you two doing anyway?" Hitsugaya raised an eyebrow. Hisagi plopped down on the ground some more. He was already muddy, no use trying to stay clean. "We were just going around… we didn't know there's this damned cliff here." He sneezed. "By the way, thanks for helping us out… how'd you figure out we were here?"
"We heard you shout." Chad answered. "Yeah, like banshees tearing each other's throat." Ichigo scoffed. "We should go back and tell Urahara about the death cliff he's got here." The orange haired guy stood up, and offered his hand to Rukia, who graciously took it. "Ouch!" She yelped.
Ichigo quickly panicked. "What's wrong? Are you hurt? Where?"
"I think I may have twisted my ankle… not a big deal.."
The orange haired young man crouched and offered his back to Rukia. "Here. Climb on, we should get you treated…" Rukia hesitated but Hisagi pushed her lightly towards Ichigos back. "I'll get you muddy." She worried. "che, like YOU care about that midget." Ichigo bit back sarcastically, which earned a frown from the girl. "Fine. Since you don't mind me wiping mud on you berryhead… I'll help myself then." Rukia innocently rubbed her muddy chest on Ichigo's back, in an attempt to piss him off but got different results instead.
"Wha-S-stop that you freakin' midget!" Ichigo flushed, he could feel the heat rise up in his face and in some other parts he didn't want to think of mentioning.
The three—yes, including chad—had perverted smirks on their faces and looked at Ichigo who was blushing mad. "fufufufufufufufufufu…. Must be nice with all that mud eh Ichigo?"
Ichigo caught on with what they meant and went 3 stages of red in a second. "S-Shut up." He gritted his teeth. He was glad that Rukia stopped rubbing already—but then again, he wasn't so sure if he really wanted her to stop.
"We need to patch this up quickly, it's already starting to swell." Yoruichi examined Rukia's ankle. She then turned to her fiancé. "You should have that part fenced… Unless you want me to find you there one day all broken bones and spilled gut."
"ah, my soon to be wifey loves me so much." Urahara swooned; the group could only shake their heads.
"Broken ankle? Glad I got here just in time." Came another voice from the hall. Everybody turned to look where it came from and saw Kaien at the front door, carrying some boxes and a first aid kit. "Yo, Kaien." Hisagi grinned. "Hey, we got delayed a bit… but the instruments are already in the music room.." He turned to Urahara "And I also repaired and towed in your car up with my truck." He then walked towards Rukia. "As for you, I'm also the attending physician during our stay here."
"You could start now… her ankle's starting to swell." Yoruichi pointed out.
"Hurt yourself so fast eh princess?" Kaien took Rukia's foot and placed it on his lap, carefully pulling out her shoe. Ichigo hated how he did it so sensually and was glad that the pain is rendering Rukia speechless as well as numb to the guy's advances. "I could use some warm water and towels… have any?"
"I'll get it." Hitsugaya offered. "I'll get the towels." Chad followed suit.
Rukia winced in pain. "Hurts that much eh?" Kaien smiled, Rukia nodded. "I didn't think it would be that much though…"
The water and the towel finally came and Kaien started again, gently wiping and massaging Rukia's feet. It was getting on Ichigo's nerves. "Oi, shouldn't you be like, already putting some bandages and stuff? You're taking way too long."
"This takes patience and delicate work Ichigo… " Kaien smiled back. "Well, I still think you're taking too long… some physician." Ichigo frowned some more.
"If you two have enough time to argue about how fast and slow the patching up is, we could just leave my foot alone and let it swell until it eats me up." Rukia gritted her teeth. "Oh, sorry princess… I'll be putting medicine on it now." Kaien beamed. "Stupid…little…" Ichigo grumbled.
Rukia hobbled up the stairs to her room when Chad saw her. "Rukia… need any help?" The gentle giant offered. "Thanks Chad…. Yeah, If you could help me go up to my room." Rukia was about to hold on to the wooden stairway handles when she was suddenly lifted up and on to Chad's arms. "Ah!… Chad… I can still walk."
The tall man shook his head in disagreement. "It'll be easier this way Rukia-san… and you shouldn't strain your foot." Rukia sighed and smiled, it was no use fighting it anyway, and besides, it'll be a free ride on her part. "Thanks Chad."
On their way towards Rukia's room, they were welcomed by two half naked guys—Ichigo and Hisagi—walking around the hallway. "damn it Hisagi… give my shirt back!" Ichigo yelled. "You have to promise you'll be treating me to some drinks tonight."
"Are you crazy? We're having practice today… Give it ba—oh hey Chad." Ichigo's gaze went to the giant's arms. "Acting like a luggage now eh, midget?"
Rukia quickly pointed at Chad. "His idea… I needed help going up." She frowned. "And I'm not a midget you neon light head." Chad decided to put her down already, just in case the two start another petty war—which he didn't want to be trapped in.
"Thanks Chad." She turned to the giant then to the two half naked men. "So, what childish escapades are you up to now, children?"
"Nothing… I was getting dressed and HIsagi is acting drunk." Ichigo flushed, feeling a little silly and cold. "Oh, well have fun you guys… Urahara told me that you would be starting training 30 minutes from now... They are just waiting for another guest to arrive." She grinned. "It seems to be the representative of the production company."
"Oh… that's new… usually we have trainings and practices without any of those… we must have hit a good promotion… I wonder what it will be." Hisagi cheered. "It's either a new concert or a tie-in PV…whichever works…" Ichigo grinned. "After all, it's not like we can't do it right?"
"And cue in smug shots." Rukia laughed. "Okay proud boys, I'll be taking a nap… nice to know you're all fired up." She made a peace sign and staggered to her room.
After a few seconds, Hitsugaya's voice roared from the stairway. "There you are…. The guest is already here! We're going to have lunch before training…" He looked around, as if counting the people surrounding him. "Where's Rukia?"
"In her room. Should I call her?" Ichigo offered.
"Yeah, go on. We'll be waiting downstairs." HItsugaya turned towards the stairs again; Chad gave out a nod and a grunt before walking back down.
Placing his wine glass on top of his mahogany table, Aizen couldn't help but give out a small smirk. He flipped a small picture with his right hand and directed it towards the small light illuminating the dark and cold room.
"She really is good isn't she?" Gin smiled broadly, emerging from the shadows.
"Too good. Do you think you could sign her up as permanent artist for our single covers?" Aizen relaxed on his chair. Gin's grin became wider, his eyes turning into tiny slits more than the usual. With a hint teasing in his voice, he opened his mouth "Oh, I don't think the Shinigami's would like that."
"But I would like her to stay." Aizen stood up.
"Very well." With that, Gin left.
Aizen raised his legs and dropped his feet on his huge table. Reclining a bit, his gaze went directly to the person standing behind the shadows. "Silent aren't we?"
Ulquiorra finally spoke, leaning onto Aizen's office wall. "You intend to just use her against the Shinigamis right?"
"But of course, it seems Kurosaki Ichigo is quite attached to her… as well as the whole group. It'll be a breeze when she accepts our offer, after all, she's a rising artist, she can't possibly have the guts to refuse clients or it'll cost her." Aizen played with his glass of wine. "This is show business, you play dirty to get on top."
Ulquiorra turned and walked away. "I'll inform Pussycat then.."
"And if that still doesn't make her join… I have a small secret to share to the world." Evil reeked from the Arrancar's manager.
Standing in front of the group is a nice young woman dressed in a full corporate attire. Neatly pressed blouse, overcoat and pencil skirt. She was about an inch and a half taller than Rukia and had a loose bun and raven black hair.
"Good Day, I'm Asegawa Miyako. I'll be the representative for XMV corp, your producer for your upcoming tie-in PV."
"Good to see you again Miyako." Yoruichi greeted the female happily, and they shared a friendly hug. "Same here Yoruichi-san. It's so nice to be working with you again."
"Well, I assume you already know our band members, Hitsugaya, Chad and HIsagi.. Ichigo's still upstairs." Urahara, for the first time sounded so professional. IN fact, he acted like one. "Guys, as you have heard, she's Asegawa Miyako, she's a good friend of ours and I hope you get along with her well since she'll be spending her days with us until the tie-in PV is finished.
"Nice to meet you ma'am." HItsugaya bowed in greeting and the others followed suit. "Nice to meet you guys." Miyako smiled and pulled some papers from her bag. "This may seem a bit early but I would like you to look at the objective and concept of our company for the tie-in PV." She then handed each of the members' copies of said concepts.
Ichigo soon emerged from the hallway to the dining area.
"Oh right on time Ichigo. Miyako's here and just about to tell us something." Hisagi handed him his copy of the concept. The orange haired young man looked at the paper then Miyako. "It's a pleasure meeting you ma'am."
Miyako nodded and gave him a smile.
"I hate to break it to you guys… But the real objective of this training is for you to make a song for the PV." Urahara announced.
"WHAT? A song in a week? Are you nuts? You could have told us in advance!" Ichigo fumbled, scratching his orange head; so much for the previous composure. "We could have thought of anything at least…"
"Well, I believed so much in your talent that I didn't. hohohoho!" Urahara flapped his fan.
"Talent my ass… this takes more than talent." Ichigo whispered to himself. "I think it's a great challenge." HIsagi grinned. "Yep.. I agree." Chad seconds the motion. "Okay, we should get started with this right away…" Hitsugaya nodded.
"We should eat first." Yoruichi clapped her hands. "Let's all occupy the dining room shall we?"
"Wait.. Rukia where the heck are you?" Ichigo finally noticed Rukia missing by is side. He peeked at the entrance. "I'm here. Don't get your panties in a bunch. I had to tighten my bandage a little." Rukia clicked. "You could have told me." Ichigo pouted, and Rukia pat his cheek lightly. "I could do it on my own, I'm a big girl now. "
"Rukia-san! It's so nice to see you here!" Miyako stood up and approached Rukia.
"Miyako-san?"
The rest of the gang was stunned at the girl's reaction. "Wha..wait… you two know each other?" Ichigo inquired, a bit confused. "Yes… She's Kaien's childhood friend." Rukia beamed, while Miyako saddened a bit at the term. Composing herself, the young woman gave out a smile. "Kaien introduced me to Rukia-san here."
"Oh this is great, I'm really happy that you're here…" The petite girl sat down beside Miyako. "So, you were the one they were talking about? I didn't know you worked for a production company." Miyako nodded. "Yes, I was surprised too… but then again, it's to be expected."
"Eh?" Rukia wondered, and out of curiosity, Ichigo raised an eyebrow at the girl's comment. "Urahara told you already right?" Miyako sweatdropped. She glanced at the Shinigami manager who pretended to be busy with his chopped liver. "What do you mean Urahara hasn't told what yet?" Ichigo narrowed his eyes, already suppressing his urge to grab their manager by the neck and make him pay attention instead of pretending not to hear or notice anything. Chad, Hisagi and Hitsugaya were very intrigued by now too.
"Well…" MIyako continued.
"I'm back! I just went out to get some stuff from the ca-" Kaien stopped in his tracks. "Miyako."
"K-Kaien…."
"Didn't know we had a guest… And her of all people. Sorry, I don't think I'm hungry, just call me when it's time for practice." Kaien stormed off, Miyako bowed down, tugging the hem of her skirt tightly.
"OI! Kaien! OI!" Ichigo stood up, intending to follow the guy but was stopped by Miyako's sudden outburst. "Must you always be like this?"
Kaien stopped in his tracks, and the group was caught in immense silence.
10 seconds passed.
If a coin dropped right now, it would probably echo around the house due to the stillness in the air. Hell, Hisagi is contemplating if he should swallow the food he was currently munching on before the awkward incident, because his gulping might echo around the place. HItsugaya still had the cup on his lip, while Chad sat there, his fork still halfway through his steak. Ichigo on the other hand, stood there, arm still outstretched, since he tried calling out to his doppelganger a while ago. Rukia's tiny hand was holding on tightly at her table napkin while Yoruichi gaped—apparently got surprised with Miyako's outpouring.
Urahara finally chimed. "Awkward…."
That snapped everyone back.
Kaien grumbled. "Like I said, I'm not hungry." He left with a frown on his face, while Miyako finally gave up and sat down sighing.
"ah shit." Kaien complained, followed by a huge grumble on his stomach.
"You should have sat back there and ate." A voice came from behind him. "Really, what just happened to you back there?" Rukia hobbled her way to Kaien. "It's really nothing… You shouldn't concern yourself with it."
Rukia frowned. "Oh I wouldn't… but then again, I don't think I could tolerate how you acted towards Miyako-san. She left the table with tears in her eyes." The petite girl tapped Kaien lightly on the shoulders. "Are you okay?" Kaien grumbled. "Seriously Rukia, it's not your business. Please leave it."
"Look Kaien, I'm not gonna force you to tell or not, I was just hoping you'd at least acknowledge the fact that I'm actually concerned." With that Rukia turned and left.
"Wait Ru—I" Kaien slapped his face lightly. Great, just great.
"There, there… stop crying." Yoruichi comforted a devastated Miyako. "I-I'm so sorry… I shouldn't be like this… This is so unprofessional." Miyako sobbed and wiped her tears with her palm.
"No, it's okay.. It's understandable."
"It was my fault to begin with. I should have known he'd be like this towards me. What was I expecting?" Miyako sniffed. She was then surprised when a large hand offered her a handkerchief.
"Here." Ichigo coughed.
"Ah…Thank you Kurosaki-san." Miyako shyly took the kerchief. "What are you doing here? This is a private and girl to girl talk… are you a girl strawberry?" Yoruichi teased.
"S-shut up." Ichigo fumbled. "And I'm not 'strawberry'. I came to ask what the heck is going on." He furrowed his eyebrows. "Kaien may be a substitute drummer… but he is part of the band. I have every right to know what the heck is going on."
"You're just being nosy… Why don't you just say it out directly?" Yoruichi snickered. The orange haired young man glowered at his manager's fiancée. "I swear you are becoming like Urahara every damn day." To this, the tanned young woman gasped. "I am absolutely not!"
Ichigo ignored her and turned to look at Miyako again. "So… It's either you tell me or I punch it out of Kaien. You choose."
"You are so violent Ichigo." A voice came from behind them. They all turned around to see a staggering Rukia coming inside the room. "I could actually hear your voice from the hallway."
"Rukia-chan…" Miyako stood up. "It's okay, don't mind me… What is going on here anyway?" The petite girl leaned on the wall for support. "I was asking her what the heck is up between her and Kaien and that scene from the dining room." Ichigo answered quickly. Rukia retorted. "What the heck? You can't force her on something like that! It's their business! You nosy retard!"
"That's what I told him." Yoruichi coughed.
"You stay out of this!" Ichigo grumbled as he looked over to Yoruichi.
"Don't yell at Yoruichi-san like that!" Rukia bellowed.
"Well, you're yelling too!" Ichigo howled back.
"That's right! Don't shriek at me like a banshee you moron!" Yoruichi hollered.
Miyako sighed. This was getting nowhere. "ALRIGHT! I'll say it! Just please all of you KEEP QUIET!"
The three stopped and sat down, still stunned.
The producer groaned. "You don't have to be so attentive." She took a deep breath. "It was actually a petty fight guys… Kaien and I.. well, we dated back then."
Cue Rukia and Ichigo's jaw dropping. "Se-seriously?" "Kaien never mentioned anything about it that jerk!" Ichigo clenched his fist. "I can think of a reason why he wouldn't, you gossiper." Rukia narrowed her eyes and Ichigo's own orbs narrowed back.
"We came from the same place. He was my childhood friend and high school sweetheart." MIyako fumbled. "We were together up until college… Going strong, to the point that he asked me to marry him."
Jaw drops again.
"Will you please try to not drop your jaw every freakin' time?" Yoruichi smacked her forehead lightly.
"But… The company I am working at right now offered me a big break I couldn't refuse. It was a dream come true for me, I have always wanted to be a producer…" Tears welled up from Miyako's eyes. "I had to choose between him and that. And as you can see… I choose my work."
"He was devastated… He told me to go and he also left."
"He came to the city a year after Miyako left and entered a programming company. He was a total workaholic, no emotions and so anti-social." Yoruichi now choose to butt-in when she saw Miyako sobbing again and is completely unable to continue. "He got into a lot of fights because of his attitude… He was always beat-up. Urahara and I saw him one day, unconscious in front of our porch. We took him in and introduced him to Ichigo and the others."
"He was essentially close to Ikkaku that's why he's the replacement drummer for him when Ikkaku retired." Ichigo looked at Rukia. "But I remember him being so grumpy and stuff… we often fought. But eventually, he warmed up."
Rukia almost bawled. "T-That is so sad!"
"I understand if he is like that to me. It doesn't help that I often get to work with the Shinigamis." Miyako saddened even more.
"Often? But when we met, he acted as if he didn't know you work with them." Rukia inquired.
"He always acts that way towards me ever since. Plus, I just got promoted from assistant to producer." Miyako paused. "And I don't think he'll ever forgive me because of that."
Rukia stood up and smiled. "Don't say such negative stuff. You have us behind your back, and Kaien… I don't think he's so cruel hearted not to forgive and forget all the bad things that has happened to the both of you." She turned to look at Ichigo and beamed. "As long as you have someone to support you, things will go just fine."
"Y-Yeah" Ichigo flushed and scratched his cheek lightly.
"Thank you Rukia-san, Ichigo-san." Miyako softly smiled and gave Ichigo and Rukia a hug.
With that, they retired for the day. Ichigo and Rukia left Miyako and Yoruichi to go to their respective rooms.
It was now past 3 in the afternoon and brainstorming was a little average, thought Hitsugaya. First off, he was perhaps the only one thinking about the new song. Hisagi was busy playing with his PSP (which he will confiscate later on), Chad was talking to Miyako about cute stuff (He hopes it will help with their songwriting), Ichigo is dozing off on the couch and Kaien is still in a pretty bad mood. (It's a good thing Urahara convinced him to stay in the room despite Miyako-san being there—which he still doesn't know the reason why he's so mad at the girl)
It also didn't help that Urahara and Yoruichi, despite being their managers are talking about their wedding plans on their practice time no less!
Hitsugaya groaned. Will they be able to finish this on time? The white haired young man stood up, grabbed his song sheets and stormed towards the now drooling Ichigo. With a count of three, he slapped the sheet right at Ichigo's face.
"What the—Fuc-!" Ichigo stumbled from the couch and everybody turned to look what the commotion was all about. "Oi you freakin' almighty lead singer… a little help with the song please?" Hitsugaya was waiting for another shot at the berry's head. "Can't you see I'm sleeping?" Ichigo retorted. "And that fucking hurt."
"Oh you will gets lots of sleep in the future…" Hitsugaya's vein almost popped out of annoyance. "…once we fail to make a song and lose all our record label chances, you'll have plenty of time to sleep…ON A CARDBOARD BOX!"
Hisagi turned off his PSP. An Angry Hitsugaya is not fun to be with. He makes things cold even in the summer. If you narrow your eyes a bit, you could actually see snowflakes coming down. Chad stood up and excused himself from Miyako.
"Am I the only one in this stupid music camp? Hello!" Hitsugaya hollered. "Don't act all bossy with me you white cookie!" Ichigo retorted back with a growl.
Somehow, a sudden cold breeze came in the room. Even Kaien stood up from his 'emo-corner' and started picking up the drumsticks even if he doesn't have anything to play.
"Song writing isn't an easy task, you freakin' citrus head! Unless you're the god of music, I will gladly shut up and not complain."
"Well shut up and don't complain cause I am the god of music!"
"Oh yeah? Let's see you fill this music sheet with songs oh, almighty lummox!" Hitsugaya shoved the sheets to Ichigo's face.
Ichigo grabbed the sheet angrily. "Hell yeah I will!" He looked at the sheet. "As soon as I get my inspiration back!" He plopped back on the couch to get some shuteye.
Hitsugaya raised his fist but was stopped by Hisagi and Chad. "Easy man, we can't afford fights around here." Hitsugaya breathed in and out, and grinned. "What about the song you're writing? What was it about..? Oh! Right! The left-behind pe-"
Ichigo quickly bolted from the couch and grabbed Hitsugaya's face to cover his mouth. "Alright you freakin' mini monster, I'll work on the damned song!"
Hitsugaya grinned; it was his victory.
Urahara and Yoruichi shrugged it all off and continued talking about their wedding plans.
"You're not going to talk me into this." Grimmjow growled. "Why should we even waste our time on her?"
"It's what Aizen and Gin said. You should be grateful that it's me that's convincing you…" Ulquiorra deadpanned.
"That's just fucking cheap! I'm not inferior to that fucking orange head to do that!"
"Whatever suits you. But it's what Aizen wants." Ulquiorra made his way outside calmly.
"Fuck." Was all Grimmjow could say.
Tap.
"Shit."
Tap.
"Shit! Shit!" Tap. Tap. Erase. Scribble. Erase. Tap. Tap. Tap.
"Having a hard time oh 'God of music'?"
"Leave me alone. I can't think if you keep standing there. You stink"
Hitsugaya raised his fist again and was stopped by Kaien this time. "Let's.. uhm.. just work on a rhythm. It might help Ichigo think of words for it." The dark haired young man smiled at Ichigo, completely unaware of the fact that strawberry head gained knowledge about his past just a while ago.
Ichigo can't think of anything really, the usual spark of ideas wasn't there. All that occupied his mind right now was about Kaien, Miyako and Rukia. If Kaien really hated and forgot about Miyako, then does that mean he's really into Rukia? Or was he just using her as a way to forget? He growled under his breath. No, it can't be. Kaien isn't that cruel isn't he?
Ichigo tensed, he felt for the first time, threatened.
He knew Kaien was making advances on Rukia, but he never had that feeling of taking it seriously. He was advancing himself… but then again, he was holding back too much. He rubbed his eyes. Perhaps he was doing things half-heartedly because he was never quite sure how Rukia felt for him and at the same time, he didn't want to strongly impose.
"Ah shit!" He stood up and rubbed his head hard. He then stomped his way out of the room, with everyone looking at him in surprise.
He knows the whole thing with him and Rukia could be unrequited. He had accepted that to himself already, but still, he had hoped that it's not true, whatever he is thinking.
"I would have to hear it from Rukia herself." He mused.
Fuck falling in love.
"I just finished. I guess I should go and brief Rukia-chan about this." Miyako stood up and placed some papers in her manila folder. "Yeah uhm.. about that." Urahara grinned. "I haven't really told Rukia about the idea.. So I'm not sure if she'd say yes." Miyako's eyes widened. "Are you serious Urahara-san? If she refuses, I don't have any more time to look for someone to do this." The gentle girl almost palpitated and went into a nervous fit.
"But I'm sure she'll say yes… Just give her the puppy dog eyes." Urahara grinned.
"You have got to be kidding me!" MIyako could not believe it. The poor girl!
"Alright, alright, I'll be the one to tell her." Urahara fanned himself and stood up, slowly leaving the room.
"It's not as if I have a choice…" Rukia thought inside her head. She forced a smile as Urahara and Miyako pleaded with puppy eyes for her to accept this 'sudden' job. "I believe in your skills Rukia-chan, so please, help us?" Urahara whimpered, but she could tell he was acting a lot.
"Alright. I'll do it." She sighed in compliance. "Thank you!" Miyako and Urahara chorused, only Miyako's voice sounded more relieved than Urahara's 'sure' tone. "What am I going to do for this then?" Rukia asked bluntly, trying not to sound too aggravated. Miyako smiled apologetically and took the petite girls hand. "Come with me."
Miyako took Rukia at the backyard hot spring.
"Wow. So Yoruichi and Urahara really do own a private hot spring." Her Amethyst eyes widened in amazement. "Amazing isn't it? Now, let's go." Miyako smiled at her, which earned a confused look from Rukia. "Go where?"
"I thought that you could think well after taking a dip in the bath." Miyako winked. "Plus, it could also help soothe the pain in your ankle." Rukia smiled. "Well, I guess a little dip won't hurt."
"Plus, I know the guys threw this work on you without a warning… So I'm trying to make this less tense as possible for you." The young woman sincerely apologized but Rukia told her it was really okay. Sure, It was a big hassle not to mention stressful, but the guys are her friends and friends help one another no matter what.
The petite young woman sighed as she finally dipped her body in the warm water. "You're right, this really releases out the stress a lot." She smiled at Miyako. "I could really get used to this."
"I'm glad you're enjoying it." Miyako looked back at her with a smile. "Rukia-chan….are you… are you and Kurosaki-san dating?"
Rukia sputtered and coughed as she almost lost her footing from the question. Miyako winced at the sight, maybe she shouldn't have asked. "A-are you okay?"
"I-I'm fine.." Rukia coughed. "Just slipped a bit there." She forced a smile. "What did you say again?"
"I um.. I asked if you and Kurosaki-san are dat—"
"No." Rukia sighed.
"Oh.. it's just…"
"Just what?"
"Aren't you two living together?"
Rukia's eyes bulged. "NO! Uhm, technically yes…WAIT! How do you know this?" Rukia tried to calm herself down. Sure, she works with them a lot, plus she's a producer for the Shinigamis… could they have told everyone?
"I was told by Urahara and Yoruichi." Miyako simply replied. "I thought it was a secret." Rukia answered back.
"oh..Oh! no, don't worry, they only told those close to the group. You don't have to worry. I'm the last of the 'people they can tell' to." Miyako reassured. "It's not like I'm disgraced by it. The guys have been helpful and all, and I really don't want to cause them any trouble." Rukia splashed some water on her face. "But since of course Ichigo and the others are famous, they have a status to keep. And rumors to avoid."
"Is it hard?" Miyako placed her hand over Rukia's right shoulder. "It is sometimes. Since I have to keep everything in check. But of course I won't go on telling them that. It's bad enough that I'm already freeloading from their goodness and here I am complaining about it." Rukia chuckled.
"Kurosaki-san…he really likes you, so I don't think he won't mind you telling him these things."
"ichigo? That's funny. All he ever did was make fun of me, always shouting at me, calling me names." Rukia's eyes saddened. "I think he thinks I'm a burden."
"Rukia-chan.."
"But enough about that. I think we should start with the concepts already. Too much soaking in here would probably turn us into tomatoes." Rukia chuckled and stood up, in which Miyako nodded and followed suit.
5:01 PM
Hitsugaya glanced at the clock and then at his busy teammates. So far, they were doing incredibly well. Hisagi, Chad, Kaien and He already had some tunes for Ichigo's lyrics. Though it wasn't half done, he is happy to be making some progress. Dinner will come soon and they will have to call it a day and continue tomorrow.
"Urahara said we would have a meeting after dinner about the concept of the video." He finally announced.
"As much as I am excited about that, I am rather looking forward to tonight's meal. What are we having?" Hisagi bellowed.
"I believe Yoruichi-san ordered out for tonight since Miyako and Rukia are busy with the concepts." Chad injected.
Trust Ichigo's ears to go lock-on mode at the mere mention of Rukia's name. "Rukia? What the hell does Rukia got to do with the concepts?" He snarled and stopped writing.
Everyone went silent. Right, they forgot to tell Ichigo about that little detail. Nope, they really didn't bother telling him at all. The orange haired young man growled. He was always the last to know about anything around here, especially when it involved HIS midget.
No not HIS midget, just midget is fine.
"You should get used to being left-out with anything Rukia-related Ichigo." Hisagi cooed.
"What the fuck? Like I care about what she does?" Ichigo slapped the table quite violently.
"You don't? Well all the more reason not to let you join in the topic." The tattooed man teased, getting the very much expected and pleasing result from berryhead.
Ichigo slapped the table some more, and Chad could swear he heard it creak in a whimper. "I meant; what the heck has she got to do with our project anyway? you freakin' porn-loving ass!"
"Like you don't watch porn!"
"I don't!"
"You must be gay then."
"I'm Not! Look, could we just get back on the topic?"!
"Alright, that's enough. We just can't let a day pass by without your senseless bickering don't we?" Hitsugaya stood up. "As for your FYI Ichigo, yes, Rukia has been commissioned by us to make a concept for the promotional video we are making with Miyako as producer. That is why she is here."
"This is crazy. You always drag her with all of these stuff!" Ichigo growled. "I'm happy she gets to come with us and all, but she has a lot in her mind and a lot of stuff to do when she goes back. You could at least let her rest! I go insane worrying about her all the time!"
"Wow." Hisagi whistled. "Why don't you do yourself a favor and declare that to her… not us."
"Yeah Ichigo… how much longer would you be dallying with this? We all know how much you like her, be a man, suck it up and just tell her." Hitsugaya teased.
"I-Th-This has nothing to do with that! I was just concerned since I think I'm the only one who actually has some sense and be concerned around here!" Ichigo went red. "Look man, hate to break it to ya, but we're not exactly teenagers. Blushing and denying is what were not supposed to do anymore. Men our age, we head straight, face the enemy and BAM!" Hisagi proudly proclaimed. "Unless… you're so much of a chicken, you still can't. What's keeping you anyway? Or would you rather let me be the one who tells her that?"
Ichigo was already fuming in the corner. Chad wanted to laugh, but he settled for a smirk instead. His orange head friend was acting like an embarrassed puppy by now.
"But don't blame me if she falls for me instead of you." The tattoo-faced young man twirled. "I mean, I really know how to work up my charm!" With this, Hitsugaya laughed.
"Whose charm?" Kaien interjected, with a bowl of noodles at hand. "Are you guys talking about something perverted?" The dark haired young man grinned suggestively.
"No! We're not talking about anything perverted damn it!" With that, Ichigo stormed out the room.
"What's gotten into him?"
"He must have eaten some bad chicken."
Snickers were heard from Hitsugaya and Chad.
"It's almost dinner time Rukia, let's say we stop here and continue with the rest tomorrow?" Miyako stretched her arms.
"Sure. Though I don't feel hungry right now. Why don't you go on ahead? I'll clean up here and have a look at some books." Rukia smiled.
"Are you sure?"
"Definite. I'll follow suit. I just wanna have a look at this wonderful library." Rukia smiled. "Okay then, see you later Ru-chan."
Hobbling towards the tall bookcase, Rukia was in awe at the large collection Yoruichi and Urahara had in their library. Granted that said place was not massive, still it housed all kinds of genres and even rare books. Rukia liked to read, that's a fact and being in here was like in book-heaven. Yup, despite her injury, this was definitely one heck of a trip.
"I swear to Kami they are out to kill me!" A certain orange haired man's voice bellowed at the hallway. "I don't even get why I hang around them… much lest tell them about these stupid feelings I have for that mid-"
"Hey!"
"-geaaahii!"
Rukia frowned, as she peeked from the library door. "What the heck's gotten into you shouting like that?" Ichigo swore he felt his heart burst out of his chest and cowardly hid inside the hallway broom closet—if it had legs. "What the fuck midget, you scared the crap out of me."
"If you really crapped, that would be so gross. And you can't blame me; you're the one going banshee in the hallway. What's the matter? Stubbed your toe?" Lavender eyes shone in gleeful mischief.
Ichigo narrowed his eyes. "I did not." He looked at her again, noticing half her body still inside some room. "What are you doing there?"
"Here? Oh. This is the library…if you didn't know… I was just browsing around." "The library huh?" Ichigo placed his hand on the door and opened it just enough for him to go inside."
He whistled. "Nice. Small, but very packed with books."
Rukia beamed. "That's what I was thinking too." She grabbed Ichigo's hand. "Come here look, this section has every collector's edition books. Some of these stuff I haven't even seen!" She happily tittered, her soft hand still holding on to Ichigo's calloused ones. "And over here are the original published books. I only got to read the reprinted version of this."
"Easy there, you forget you're injured." Ichigo's eyes softened at how enthusiastic and innocent she looked. "Oh right. It doesn't hurt much… But I guess I should have Kaien take a look at it when we get back."
At the mere mention of Kaien's name, Ichigo's mood blackened. Is Rukia just friendly with him or is there more? But if she is, then she wouldn't have encouraged Miyako. But then again, maybe she's good at masking things.
"Ichigo!"
"Huh? What? What now Chibi?"
"Are you okay? I called you three times and you didn't answer."
Ichigo closed his eyes for a second and gripped Rukia's hand tighter. "I…" Bending forward, he rested his head at the crook of Rukia's neck, taking the girl by surprise. "Ichigo? What's wrong?"
They stayed there for about a minute only to snap back up when Ichigo intertwined his fingers with Rukia's. The girl's heart skipped a beat. "I—"
"Am I a coward Rukia?"
Rukia's eyes widened at the sudden question. Where is this coming from? She forced a smile. "What's this about Ichigo? What's with the sudden off topic question?"
"Am I?"
"No. Why would you say that? Who told you that? Let me at him and I'll give him one hell of a beating." Rukia frowned, cursing whoever told him that. Ichigo wasn't a coward; in fact he's the epitome of courage. Rukia always admired that about him. He seemed to be always headstrong with everything, always honest and very, very nice. He has his weak times, but he was never a coward. Ichigo laughed at the protective gesture. "A beating? Really now?" He looked at the girl in front of him, releasing her from his weight. "You should heal yourself first before you do that."
"I can still beat him even if I'm handicapped." She snorted. "So, who told you that?"
Ichigo smiled and patted Rukia's head. "No one. It was just a random question midget." He turned towards the door. "Let's go. Dinner is waiting."
Rukia stared at his retreating back with gentle but concerned eyes. She wasn't sure what was going inside the berry's head, but she's sure that he won't say something like that out of the blue. "Ichigo." She called out. "ye—"
Ichigo was now the one caught by surprise. Rukia suddenly hugged him tightly, tiptoeing as if her ankle doesn't hurt. "Ru-?"
"You're not a coward Ichigo… You may be clumsy, but never a coward." She patted his back. She won't force him on whatever he's thinking right now, but she will support him when he needs it. "Trust me on that." She pulled back, her hands still on Ichigo's shoulders looking straight at his eyes. "That's what I liked about you."
Ichigo felt his heart burst. God, he really, really love this woman. And with the way she supports him, was both satisfying and painful. "Rukia." He grabbed her and hugged her tightly. "Thank you." He whispered against her ear. Rukia in turn hugged him back, not minding how hard her heart is thumping against her chest.
Damn midget, you just made this harder than it already is.
I really am a coward.
Dinner went exceptionally well. The Boys decided to soak some more in the bath before hitting the sack. Yoruichi and Miyako also took a dip without Rukia. Said girl just strolled around house and at the back garden—not going too far to where she and Hisagi almost got killed. The moon was exceptionally bright tonight, and she loved every inch of it. Sitting down on a huge boulder, she reveled at the night air caressing her face.
"Oi, Kaien. You're done?" Ichigo looked over to the dark haired man moving towards the towel rack. "yeah. I plan on retiring early. What about you?"
"Oh, I'll soak up some 5 minutes more and then leave." He looked back at Hisagi and Urahara who were playing a game of 'drown your manager' at the other corner, Chad on full stand-by just in case they really end up turning the other blue. Hitsugaya on the other hand preferred to stay away from them, not wanting to mingle with monkeys. "Five minutes is enough for me to get away from them before I become their primary target."
Kaien grinned. "Good luck then." He waved and went inside to change.
Sighing as he went outside towards his quarters, his mind wandered to Miyako's sad face that morning. He growled, "No, no way in hell would I fall for that. She hurt me enough already." Turning a quick right to his destination, he stopped in his tracks when he saw a certain petite girl giggling on top of a huge boulder. "Yes Ori-chan, I'm sorry I can't talk long. This collect call would kill me. Please say Hi to everyone there. I miss you and love you guys." As the line went dead, she smiled and closed her cellphone. Yep, it's definite. Once she gets another long break, she would visit them.
"What are you doing out here alone princess?"
"Hiiieeee!"
"Oh sorry. Did I scare you?"
"k-Kaien! Don't sneak up on me like that. I swear I'll have a heart attack!"
Kaien chuckled and gestured to Rukia if he could sit down next to her. "Sure, It's not like I'm taking up space anyway." The dark haired young man sat beside Rukia. "How's your ankle?"
"Oh this? Oh! Right! I was gonna ask you to look at it. It's not hurting or anything… It's just… it feels numb. Should I be worried?"
"hmmm.. Let me see." Putting Rukia's foot on his lap, he gently took out the bindings. Rukia flinched. "I-It still hurts, but not like before. I don't know if it's healing or getting worse."
"It is still swollen. But you don't have to worry about it. I'll put some medicine on it to stop the swelling some more."
"Whew. Thanks Kaien." Rukia smiled back at him. Kaien looked back at her delicate eyes, hearing the loud thump of his heart clearly. Kaien was interested in her alright, and he had been pursuing her after all. Not so serious though as to give space to Ichigo. But then, he thought about it, why was he giving space to him anyway? If he were really serious, he'd grab every chance he could get. Was he holding back because of something?
There was Miyako.
He frowned. No, it wasn't because of her. She left him… hurt him. He wasn't that hung up on her anymore. Why would he? And besides, it's only the other day that she showed her face. He decided to forget about her years ago.
"Kaien?"
Kaien snapped back to reality. He growled under his breath. He shouldn't even be thinking about that. That was his past, and pasts usually don't have to be held on to. Especially something like that.
He felt a pang on his chest. Shaking it off, he looked back at Rukia's concerned look.
"Sorry Rukia-chan. I-I got a little distracted."
"Are you okay? I know all the pressure you're in and stuff… maybe you should go and re—"
"No, it's okay. I-I'm fine."
He should do something about this. He wanted to be happy, and he keeps telling himself that this will make him happy.
"Rukia." He gently whispered, holding on to Rukia's shoulders, surprising the girl. "Kaien?"
He exhaled. "I have something to tell you." He closed the distance between them. "I really, really like you."
Ichigo felt a tug in his chest as he picked up the discarded towel on the floor. He looked at the white cloth in his hand. Kaien must have dropped this a while ago. "Weird, why did I suddenly feel so uneasy?"
"Wh-What?" Rukia's head was spinning. "K-kaien? Are you sure you're okay? I… are you just joking with me?" Rukia let out a forced chuckle but stopped when she saw how serious Kaien looked at her. Panic enveloped Rukia. She wasn't expecting this. And certainly not expecting it to be Kaien for pete's sake. Had she been missing out on any signs pertaining this? When did this happen? How the hell did this happen?
Rukia was a mess, so many questions running in her head. Kaien noticed this and tried steadying her. "Rukia.. Rukia listen to me. Calm down."
"B-But Kaien… this… this…"
Kaien sighed and leaned to claim Rukia's lips.
"Oi, I'll be going on ahead you buffoons." Ichigo waved at the still palying Hisagi and Urahara. Chad nodded, he still needed to watch guard on those two. Besides it won't be long now, considering how much energy they used trying to drown each other plus the heat of the water, they would most likely to pass out in a minute or two. Hitsugaya stood up. "Then I guess I'll go on ahead too. You'll be okay there big lug?"
Chad nodded.
Rukia could not believe this.
She didn't want to believe it actually. But trust on the irony of life that she found herself pressed against Kaien's chest, his arms tightly holding the small of her back while his right hand was placed firmly but softly at the back of her head. He was kissing her!
It wasn't forceful. It was gentle actually. She would be melting in this kind of kiss if only the person kissing her is what she wanted the most.
Kaien licked at her lips, gently coaxing to open her mouth more. She could feel his tongue grace her teeth and as she gasped for air, he took the opportunity to dive in. She flinched, and her hands went to grip his robe, trying to make him stop.
"k-kammph" She scuffled for freedom. He's her friend, a very special friend, but not THIS special. She wanted to make him stop and snap out of it. She wanted to save what was left of her respect for him.
'Ichigo!' her mind screamed, and she gathered up all her strength to push Kaien away. "Wh-what the f-ack!" Said man went plopping down the boulder. Rukia turned around, clasping her right hand with the left that's situated on top of her lips. "a..Ka-kaien!" She said in surprise for she did not mean to push him that much. Kaien sat down on the grass, still in shock as he looked up at Rukia, lips swollen from their kiss.
"oh my god… what have I done? Shit! Rukia I'm… I'm sorry…" He stood up and looked at Rukia, apologizing furiously. "I'm so sorry! I didn't know what got into me and… Shit, I'm so sorry Rukia."
Rukia looked at him and sighed. "Kaien." The man looked up slowly, already nervous and worried. "What's wrong? This isn't like you…. This…" tears brimming in her eyes. It wasn't because he stole a kiss from her, but rather how confused and shocked she was right now and how concerned she is with a now perplexed drummer. Kaien bowed down. "Rukia… I'm sorry… I really am. It's true I really like you. But you don't deserve this. You don't deserve what I just did."
"Kaien…"
" You could curse me, punch me, and never talk to me again. I will take it all in."
"Kaien!"
He looked up again to see Rukia in front of him, her hand raised to hold on to his face. "I know you didn't mean it. I am a bit mad at you… but it's not enough for me to not talk to you. You're my friend." She sighed. "I really appreciate that you like me Kaien… I really do. But…I don't want you to waste your feelings on me."
"What do you mean?"
"You're not being fair you know? It's so clear in your eyes Kaien… I'm not who you really need." Rukia smiled, her eyes drooping. Suddenly, she doesn't feel so good. "Rukia? Are you okay? You're looking a little pale."
'What is Kaien saying? I'm not pale… though I feel a bit dizzy…'
"I'm fin-"
Without notice, she fell down on the grass.
"RUKIA!"
"I've got to hand it to you Ichigo, we're actually making progress with this song." Hitsugaya smirked as he and the orange haired teen walked the hallways to their quarters.
"I told you I could do it. You all doubt how talented I am." Ichigo grinned. "Are you sure you're the ichigo Kurosaki whom fans say is humble and shit stuff like that?" "hmm.. must be some other guy." For once, both men agreed at something.
Ichigo stopped in his tracks. "Hey uhm.. Toshiro… you could go on ahead I'm just gonna catch some fresh air."
Hitsugaya raised an eyebrow. "you mean, you're gonna check up on Rukia." Ichigo flushed. "No. Oh alright, so I was gonna drop by a bit. But I'm really gonna go get some fresh air."
"Right, keep telling yourself that. I'm no fool Ichigo."
"I don't know what the hell you are talking about."
"Look, we all know how much you dig Rukia. Whether you tell it to our face or not, it shows in your every move. It's really true when they say that the ones involved are usually the ones who are oblivious to what they are doing." He scratched his chin. "Though I prefer to call it 'in denial' than 'oblivious'.
"Get to the point chibisuke."
"All I'm saying is that, isn't it about time you face the music?" Hitsugaya scratched his head. "And don't call me small you retard!"
"Well you-"
SLAM!
Both Ichigo and Hitsugaya turned to look at the source of the sound. To their surprise it was Kaien, who forcefully opened the shoji door with his feet. In his arms is an unconscious Rukia.
"You two!" He worriedly yelled. "A little help here."
Ichigo was right beside him in a jiffy, his brow furrowed than ever before. "What the hell happened?"
"She collapsed when we were talking. Her fever is pretty high." Kaien looked back at him, guilt written on his face. "Give her to me." Ichigo commanded and Kaien obliged. "Call Yoruichi and Urahara, ask them for some medicine." He held on to Rukia gently, her skin burning hot from the fever, and her face pale and exhausted. "Get some towels and whatever she needs. I'm taking her to my room."
And with that, everyone went their separate ways, Ichigo sprinting towards his room, holding Rukia close to his chest.
"Her fever went down a bit now. She needs rest and she'll be good to go." The doctor folded his stethoscope and placed it inside his bag. "Her ankle swelled so bad, it got a little infected. But I assure you; it's not that serious. It had been treated earlier and that helped a lot."
Ichigo breathed out a sigh of relief. "That's good to hear."
Yoruichi and Miyako went inside with a new set of towels and water in a basin. "How's Rukia?"
"She's gonna be fine. Some rest and she's all good." Hisagi smiled. "I'll just accompany the doctor to his car then." Hitsugaya stood up and went to the door. "I'll come with you then." Chad raised his hand. And with that, they left. "You scared the shit out of us midget." Ichigo whispered and sat down beside the bed. "Well we should all rest now too I guess." Urahara suggested. Evryone nodded their heads and headed towards the door.
"I'll stay here." Ichigo didn't budge from his seat. Hisagi grinned. "Oh, we figured you'd say that. Have a good rest then berryhead."
Kaien stood outside the door, worry and guilt etched on his face. He looked up to see everyone leave, Miyako being the last. "M-Miyako."
Said girl turned to see a flustered Kaien.
"Kaien?"
"Is…Is Rukia okay?" He asked, not meeting Miyako's eyes. A pang of sadness hit Miyako but she tried her best to smile. "She's okay now; don't worry about it."
Kaien sighed and raised his head to meet the girl's eyes. "I... Miyako… I'm sorry." He bowed down, rendering the girl surprised at the sudden gesture. "Ka-Kaien… wha—"
"I'm sorry for everything. You didn't deserve what I did… I'm sorry for yelling at you and…" He closed his eyes, head still bowing. "I…I never meant to be mad. I just…"
Miyako gave him an understanding smile. "Kaien… raise your head. You don't need to apologize. You have every right to it." The dark haired young man raised his head again. "I just hope… that you're still open for a good long talk. Not today, but when the time comes that we're both ready to talk."
Miyako nodded. "Of course, It would be my pleasure Kaien Shiba."
The two smiled with new understanding. Kaien briefly wondered if what Rukia told him is what his heart has been wanting all this time.
Lavender eyes opened to be greeted by a white ceiling and a dark room. "Wha—Where am I?" She tried standing up, holding her head in the process. "Owww… my head. Shit." She felt cold, despite the blankets on top of her. "I actually have a fever? Great!" She sighed, and felt someone sitting beside her bed, correction; someone else's bed. Whose room is this?
She narrowed her eyes to see who it is. The dark wasn't helping much with her sight. Then she saw orange.
"Ichigo?"
The boy didn't move, but instead a faint inhale and exhale came from him. He was sleeping soundly while sitting, Rukia deduced. "Were you here to guard me huh strawberry?" She chuckled lightly, pushing a strand of his hair from his face. "Well, thank you." She smiled, even if the boy is unconscious to even accept her thanks.
She stood up and unfolded a blanket to put over Ichigo, and then proceeded to grab a pillow from the bed to put under his head. The boy didn't wake up but moved to snuggle himself on the pillow. Rukia smiled at the gesture. "You know, you're really actually cute when you're asleep." She looked at his sleeping face more closely. "I don't think I have told you that yet."
Staring at his closed eyes soon became a game of tracing his jawline, his nose and then his lips.
Lips.
That's right. Before she fell Kaien kissed her. She felt bad when the dark haired man did that, but feeling and seeing how guilty and sorry he was, she knew Kaien was having an inner battle inside. She can't blame her, plus he's her friend and she completely understood what went inside his mind at that time.
But…
Tears started flowing from her eyes.
But why? Why weren't you there to stop it Ichigo?
She cried, covering her mouth to stifle her sobs. She wasn't mad, but she felt really frustrated. "I called for you…"
After a few minutes of sobbing in front of a heavily sleeping Ichigo, she finally ceased and wiped her tears. She looked up to caress his face. Then it hit her. She felt very frustrated. She was disappointed that it wasn't Ichigo who kissed her.
Then, she did the most preposterous thing she could ever think of doing.
She pressed her lips against his.
It was shameful, that she's taking advantage of him and his vulnerability. But she wanted a mark. She wanted something that could erase Kaiens mark on her lips. She wanted it so much that's she's risking everything by doing this. Tears flowed from her eyes again, as she chanted 'I'm sorry" over and over in her head.
She pulls back and felt herself shiver. She loves him. She in all honesty loves this orange haired young man in front of her, and she hated it.
She has crossed the line that she promised herself to never cross again.
I know apologizing would be too redundant. But Please forgive me if I went on Hiatus that took years. There are various reasons. And that would include my writing blockage as well as being busy with a lot of things. I truly apologize to those who dedicated their time with this fic and waited everyday for an update. I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I think there will be a lot of questions regarding the pace/development of the story... So feel free to tell/ask me it. You could also help me by suggesting and stuff so I won't go back to having writer's block. -_-; Again, thank you so very much.