Owning of nothing but The Wolf Den and maybe this fic?
Check out my lovely pack and their work! They can be found on my profile, or an updated list on timewaster123456789 's profile
Warnings: drinking, flirting
Grand kudos to RenjiMichaelisMustang! While I did write this in my notebook, she was kind enough to offer to type it out for me when she found out I've been working/updating from my phone (using the site not the app) So she typed out what I had in my notebook and sent it to me, then I spaced and tweaked and adjusted. I may have done the fine-tuning, but this wouldn't be here nearly this soon if not for her :) thanks, hon! -Any mistakes are my own fault
Chapter 26: Engagement Party
Previously, on HtM - ((Seeing several of his friends already, and sensing the rest of his family just inside, Renji felt a proud smile curving his lips. Gentle fingertips brushed his, and he glanced down into dark silver eyes that were full of happiness and pride.
Just then, the trio was noticed by Yumichika.))
Byakuya felt proud of his partner and his family, and tried to convey it in one look. That was when he heard the excited greeting. "Ren! Shuu! I'm glad you both made it! I know it was kinda last minute."
Separated by Shuuhei and Renji, Byakuya knew Yumi didn't see him yet; watching as the energetic 5th seat hugged the scarred lieutenant and his own fiery subordinate, still chattering. "Lotsa people here already. I can't believe Ikki actually proposed!"
Byakuya watched as Renji chuckled and disengaged himself from the enthusiastic hug. The Rukon Dog stepped aside and Yumichika saw Byakuya. Lavender eyes widened as the 5th seat smiled and stepped forward. "Cap – Byakuya, you came!"
He nodded, allowing a small smile to curve his lips. "I heard the good news; it seems congratulations are in order."
Yumi grinned excitedly, practically bouncing in place. Sensing that the younger Soul Reaper wanted to hug him just as he had Shuu and Renji, he inclined his head, murmuring, "if you must, I suppose one hug wouldn't be too much."
In a flurry, Yumi was embracing him. "Thank you for coming, Byakuya."
He found himself smiling as he hugged back. "I'm happy for you, Yumichika."
Yumi released him, still grinning happily. "C'mon guys; you gotta catch up on drinking!"
A ruckus erupted from the building, sliding doors flung open to reveal The Dragon Room. A cacophony of cheers and howls filled the air as Ikkaku and Kenpachi flew out into the courtyard, tussling like kids.
Byakuya realized that they both had that insane grin on their faces as they play-fought, and he didn't understand what was going on. As if reading his mind, Renji murmured. "The Rukon really is different than the Seireitei. This is one way some of us celebrate. There's no intention to really hurt; just a way of saying congrats."
Sure enough, after a few more moments of tumbling around the garden exchanging punches and kicks and hurling colorful (and occasionally depraved) insults, Ikkaku sprung out of reach of his captain. "Ooh, Ken-Ken, I got a hot date tonight, you can't fuck me up too bad! Yumi will be pissed!"
Byakuya almost laughed as Yumi tossed his head and drew his Zanpakuto. "Don't mess up my fiancée's beautiful body, Zaraki, or I will be most upset."
Kenpachi laughed uproariously as he got to his feet. "So I can fuck up his face all I want?"
Ikkaku flipped the huge man the bird as he strode towards Yumi. Byakuya felt something twist in him as he witnessed how a couple could behave when their relationship didn't have to be kept secret. The bald 3rd seat stalked right up to his partner, the fierce grin fading into something a shade gentler as he murmured, "Love ya, beautiful." Then pulled Yumi close and kissed him.
Byakuya felt a twinge of envy, 'what would it feel like to be that open with Renji?' He was pulled from his thoughts as he, Renji and Shuu were finally noticed by Ikkaku and the rest of the family, who had been distracted by the tussle.
Greetings were exchanged, no less friendly for him than for the Alpha and Beta of their pack. Ikkaku smiled warmly at him. "Really glad you could make it, Byakuya. Thanks. Hey, you wanna have another drinking contest? I totally got you this time!"
Byakuya, emboldened by the ease he felt around his partner's adopted family outside of work, smirked and narrowed his eyes mischievously. "Oh? Wouldn't it be rude of me to defeat you in front of your fiancée?"
Chuckles rose from everyone, even Ikkaku. "Maybe, but I still wanna try."
Byakuya tilted his head. "Actually, I do have a late meeting with some Kuchiki elders. I'll try something weaker than sake, no drinking contest, and I need to leave a bit before sunset."
He saw the disappointment that flashed across Ikkaku's features, and across the features of some other pack members, which surprised him. But it warmed him deep inside, and he smiled. "I promise we can have another drinking contest soon, perhaps on a night when I can hang out longer."
X~X~X~X~X
Renji smiled to himself as he witnessed his once-stoic introvert of a captain blending into his pack, that suppressed social side blooming. Several of the surrounding people smiled or nodded happily at Byakuya's words - a promise that the Kuchiki heir would be hanging out with them in the future.
Kenpachi leaned forward, grinning. "Heya, princess! Glad you could make it. So you wanna drink somethin' other than sake?"
The noble nodded. "Perhaps something from that list you showed me last night?"
The tall captain of squad 11 tilted his head. "Would you trust me to pick somethin' for ya?"
Renji was surprised when his partner readily agreed. "Of course, Kenpachi. I believe I'd trust any member of this family with much more than a drink."
Renji could tell that Kenpachi and several others were surprised and pleased by their guest's words. Trust in any form was a big deal to everyone in his pack, and the ravenette's words had touched everyone who'd heard them. Pleasure and pride flowed through him as he watched Kenpachi square his shoulders. "Hai. I'll find somethin' you'll like."
The barbaric warrior of the pack headed inside, determination all over his features. Renji only had a moment to bask in the fact that his moon fit in with his friends so well, then a commotion erupted in The Dragon Room that was open to the courtyard garden.
Toshiro came running out, waving when he saw the latest arrivals. "Hey guys! Thank goodness you all made it Yo, Baldy, Prissy-pants, Ichi's here and he brought more of his pack!"
Through the open doors, Ichigo could be seen striding into The Dragon Room at the head of his group. Renji grinned as he and the others moved to the large covered porch and claimed some of the comfortable furniture there.
He noticed that Shuu was keeping a subtle, protective closeness to Byakuya, sitting in the chair closest to the one the noble had chosen.
He knew Shuu was doing this because he couldn't stay too close to his partner without risking exposure. He sent a look of gratitude to his best friend for covering his own rightful, yet denied, position. A slight nod accepted his thanks before the sky silver eyes flicked around in an assessing manner.
Shuu would make sure Byakuya wasn't bothered and that the noble was comfortable in his still new circumstances.
Renji realized Byakuya was looking between him and Shuu with a raised eyebrow. Knowing that his superior had noted the situation and that Shuu was his 'guard', Renji met the platinum eyes and gave a slight shrug, indicating that the protection would stay. So there.
He saw the ravenette's understanding and acceptance of this, content when Byakuya got comfortable under Shuu's subtly watchful eye. Just in time, too; Ichigo and his friends poured out onto the porch with a ton of rambunctious energy that was spreading through the celebrating pack like fire.
It wasn't often that something like this happened – two of their own getting married, - and excitement was running high. Renji could hear the music being turned up, songs from the World of the Living that Ichigo had gotten this mismatched clique of Soul Reapers addicted to.
The young substitute Shinigami strode right into the group, claiming a chair. He sat in it backwards and folded his arms on the back, grinning. "Hey, guys! Baldy, Yumi, I was starting to think you two were never gonna tie the knot! Congratulations, I'm happy for you."
Yumi giggled and leaned over to flick the longer orange hairs that trailed over Ichi's collar. "Liar. You were just happy to hear that we'll still play, naughty boy."
Ichigo playfully snapped his teeth at Yumi's hand. "Yeah, so? I can also be happy for you!"
Renji joined in the laughter, glancing up and grinning at Ichi's two extra guests. "Tatsuki, Keigo! Finally got an invite to come with Ichigo and the others to the Soul Society?"
They both greeted him with hugs, having gotten attached to him during his numerous infiltrations into their school as a student. Scatterbrained Keigo looked around in awe. "Ichigo told us about Soul Reapers, but I didn't realize there were so many!"
Renji laughed out loud. "Kid, these are just my friends. There's over 3,000 Shinigami total."
Tatsuki tilted her read. "Yo, Ren, where's that one that everyone's always talking about? The mean, scary, pretty guy?"
Renji, Ichigo and Shuuhei all snapped their heads up, but Tatsuki continued, "The way all you talk about him, makes me wanna meet him."
Before Renji could reply, the silky tones of his captain's voice came from behind Tatsuki. "And exactly how do they talk about me?"
Everyone looked to the noble, who had a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "Vicious lies, no doubt."
Tatsuki bowed politely. "Honored to meet you, Captain Kuchiki. Your fighting skills are the only thing they talked about that I paid attention to, sir."
Renji watched as his partner smiled and inclined his head, "Such pretty manners. Tatsuki, was it? I am pleased to meet anyone who has the patience and fortitude to be friends with Ichigo."
Tatsuki began to laugh. "Yeah, he's a handful. I can beat him up, though, as long as he's not in Soul Reaper form."
Renji smiled as Ichigo began to fuss. "Hey! Byakuya, Tatsuki, no ganging up on me!"
Just then, Orihime appeared at Tatsuki's side. "Hey, Tatsuki! C'mon, I want you to meet Rangiku and the other girls!" The two walked off amid waves, leaving just the guys.
Renji watched with pride as his secret partner chatted with his friends. The older man seemed to be getting more and more comfortable with his Rukon family, which pleased him to no end. It was as if the puzzle pieces of his life had come together and fit perfectly.
At that moment, Kenpachi strode out onto the porch, holding a drink like he'd done found the Holy Grail. The huge captain went straight to Byakuya's side. "First of all, it's hard as hell to pick a drink for someone who never talks about themselves and what they like. But I remember hearing that you like bananas, so I gotcha this. It's banana and coconut. Hope you like it."
Renji hid his smile as the noble accepted the drink and took a sip. "Oh, that's pretty good, Kenpachi." The ravenette took another sip, then smiled up at the battle-scarred captain. "Thank you, Kenpachi. You made an excellent choice. I like this drink."
Looking pleased, Kenpachi tilted his head, the bells in his hair jingling softly. "Good."
Renji saw that Shuu was watching the exchange from the corner of his eye, obviously ready to interfere if Byakuya gave any indication that he was uncomfortable. But the Kuchiki heir seemed totally at ease, even when Kenpachi patted his shoulder before claiming a chair near Ichigo as chatter resumed.
Shuu got Ichigo's attention. "Heya, Ichi? Whattcha doin' tonight after the party?"
The substitute Soul Reaper cocked his head, a naughty smirk playing round his lips. "Coming over to your place?"
Shuuhei grinned. "Damn straight. What do you think Ken is doing after the party?"
Ichigo glanced over at Kenpachi, who was listening with a feral smile showing his teeth, and shrugged at Shuu. "I dunno, probably ambushing us right as we get to your quarters."
Laughter erupted as Kenpachi nodded, and Shuuhei smiled. "That sounds perfect."
X~X~X~X~X
Byakuya sipped his drink as he observed the intricacies of his partner's family.
No true jealousy seemed to have a foothold here; everyone cared about each other and wanted the others to be happy. Unlike the noble life, sex was not a shameful act or a taboo subject. It was talked about openly and was shared between friends as an enjoyable form of affection. It seemed unusual, but he was trying to keep an open mind, and deep down, something felt right about it.
After all, these people were happy with this, yet he'd seen noble couples that hated each other that were only together because of custom.
As if the fates had read his mind, Yumichika came over to him. "Hey, Byakuya? Can I ask you something?"
He nodded, and Yumi perched on the armrest of his chair. Everyone else was chatting and laughing among themselves, but the younger Shinigami kept his voice down anyways. "I was just wondering… doesn't this weird you out? I mean, nobility don't usually have same-sex relations, do they? So I was curious if seeing what we're like has creeped you out or made you look at us different."
Byakuya met the lavender eyes, realizing the usual brash 5th seat looked self-conscious. He replied in a gentle tone. "It is very different from what I am accustomed to, but not in a bad way. See, they are happy. Many 'traditional' couples in the noble class are dysfunctional and do not care for each other half as much as this family cares about each other. I am actually glad that so many people are this happy. It does not make me uncomfortable to be around the pack just because men like each other. Feels a hell of a lot better than being around people that hate and resent each other."
Yumi began to smile, tilting his head. "That's great, I'm glad we haven't been making you uncomfortable. Have you… have you ever considered being with a guy?"
Byakuya felt his eyes widen, and his companion shook his head with a giggle. "I ain't hittin' on you, I swear! I'm just curious if you've ever thought about it. And I love hearing gossip, so if you ever did think about it, I wanna know who you'd like."
Byakuya couldn't stop his eyes from flicking towards Renji, and the ever-observant Yumi wiggled into his chair. Since they were both slender, the comfortable chair easily held them both. The younger Soul Reaper whispered, "You totally looked at Ren. If you were into guys, is he the one you'd want?"
Careful not to reveal the 'secret', he gave a slight shrug. "His tattoos are fascinating."
Yumi giggled and nudged him. "Fuckin' figures. You're a noble; always want the best, yeah? Renji is by far the best outta all of us. So no surprise you'd want him. Too bad you're not actually into guys."
Byakuya sipped his drink, murmuring, "Too bad, indeed."
Just then, Kenpachi's voice could be heard. "Hey, Ren! Why don't you have a drinkin' contest with us? It's been too long since you competed!"
Several voices rose to convince Renji to drink. Byakuya looked over just in time to see a flash of trepidation in his partner´s eyes. A drinking contest would mean that the Rukon Dog would consume a lot of alcohol in a short time.
Byakuya remembered why Renji didn't like to get drunk, and out of the corner of his eye, he saw Shuu tensing. The pack's Beta rose to his feet, sky-silver eyes filling with concern as others began cheering and encouraging Renji.
Renji was shaking his head. "I'm good, guys."
Byakuya was struck with the realization that nobody else knew; he and Shuu were the only ones that knew why Renji didn't want to get drunk. Not only that, Shuu probably thought it was still just his and Renji's secret.
Shuuhei left his protective position and shouldered his way to the crimsonette's side. At this point, practically everyone within hearing range except Byakuya and Shuuhei was begging Renji to participate in the drinking contest, some even chanting his partner's name.
The tall, powerful Shinigami stood, obviously intending to walk away. The auburn eyes slid to his, and he saw the conflict. Renji did want to drink all out, after all, it had been years since he'd gotten drunk. At the same time, his partner was absolutely terrified that he'd do something extremely stupid if he became intoxicated.
Unable to reassure the younger man with words, Byakuya tilted his head and smiled. He trusted Renji, and, as he'd been reminded just today, his reiatsu and kido far outclassed his boyfriend's. He'd be able to defend himself if the Rukon Dog got out of hand. Holding Renji's surprised gaze, he made a subtle gesture with his hand in a 'shoo'ing motion.
His lieutenant still looked doubtful, but a small smile curved his lips as he spoke. "Alright, who's ready to drink with a demon?" The cheers were deafening, and within one minute, a table had been dragged out onto the porch and surrounded by pack members.
Byakuya slipped close so he could watch, and found himself at Shuu's side. The younger man did not seem pleased by the situation, watching Renji with a blend of frustration and worry. Kenpachi sat at the table and grinned viciously at his opponent. "Ren, you know nobody else likes to compete against you."
The redhead shrugged. "As long as I can drink you into submission, I don't give a furry rat's ass who else competes."
Sure enough, nobody else was seating down, leaving their Alpha and the barbarian to settle this alone. Kenpachi glanced up at Shuu. "Heya, Reaper, you wanna referee this?"
Byakuya heard Shuuhei sigh. "Fine. We need a few bottles of sakura sake over here." Immediately, bottles were passed out of the crowd onto the table.
Renji grinned, "Aww, you remember my favorite, babe."
Shuuhei rolled his shoulders and sighed again, muttering, "You better know what the fuck you're doing, Abarai." Then he spoke louder. "Alright, Renji versus Kenpachi, sakura sake. Throw up, out. Pass out, out. No cheating. Go!"
Byakuya watched as his partner downed his first dish. The Rukon Dog closed his eyes and smiled. "Oh, fuck yeah, that's good." Renji's dark amber eyes slid back open, focused on Kenpachi. "You're going down, bastard."
Byakuya watched in awe as his boyfriend began drinking as skillfully as himself, downing the sake dishes effortlessly. Cheers rose up all around for their fierce Alpha. Kenpachi kept up with his opponent, and before long, nobody knew what dish they were on, just that they were tied.
Renji had an absolutely feral look in his eyes, obviously intoxicated as he focused on his rival. Kenpachi tossed one more back, then the dish slipped out of his hand and shattered on the table. "Fuck, that's not good." The scarred warrior mumbled, brushing the shards away. "Da-damnit Ren, you fucking got me. Fucking sak-ra sake, forgot tha' shit is strong."
Byakuya watched Renji, who was about to pour the dish that would secure his victory. Then the auburn eyes rose to him, and he saw the flicker of guilty mortification.
Renji set the bottle down, then reached out and laid his sake dish upside down.
The Rukon Dog had just thrown the whole contest.
Shouts full of shock rang out as Renji pushed away from the table and rose to his feet. "You win, Ken. Don't know what the fuck you're gonna do 'bout a prize, since I gotsa boyfriend."
Kenpachi still seemed surprised by his win, but looked thoughtful as he considered his 'prize'. Then the barbarian grinned and rose to his own feet. "How's this fer a prize, I always wanted to kiss a princess."
Byakuya felt himself stiffen as he looked to Kenpachi. As far as he knew, he was the only one the other captain called 'princess'.
The response from the pack was immediate and ferocious. Renji practically snarled as he gripped the table with punishing force, and Byakuya felt Shuu moving between him and the winner.
Kenpachi laughed. "Gods, everyone losing their shit. I meant a kiss on the cheek, and only if he's ok with it. Byakuya?"
Feeling everyone's eyes on him, Byakuya knew that it was up to him. He gave a small nod. "Very well. One kiss on the cheek."
He watched as Kenpachi walked up to him. Fuck, the man was huge! A good 9 inches taller, and at least 50 lbs heavier. Byakuya suddenly felt very small and vulnerable, even surrounded by the pack.
Kenpachi stopped in front of him, bending down so they were eye-to-eye as he smiled and he spoke softly. "Don't be scared, princess. Kisses don't hurt."
He almost jumped as fingers touched his chin and gently turned his head. Kenpachi kissed his cheek; it was warm and far more tender than what he'd expected from the Demon from Zaraki. Then Kenpachi straightened up. "Yeah, yeah, Ren, I can feel ya tryin' to kill me with your eyes."
Byakuya blinked and focused on his secret partner. Renji was glaring daggers at Kenpachi, and Byakuya realized he may have gotten Ken into trouble by agreeing to be the 'prize'.
As Kenpachi moved away, Byakuya turned to Shuu and began whispering urgently. "Don't let Renji fight him. I'm fine, Kenpachi did not bother me. Please let him know I'm ok."
Shuuhei nodded, and went to Renji, who was still watching Kenpachi. Byakuya watched as Shuu touched Renji's arm, and the taller man bent down. Shuu began whispering in the Rukon Dog's ear, and after a moment his partner's auburn eyes shifted to him. He gave a small nod and a reassuring smile.
Renji seemed soothed; yes, he was protective, but as long as Byakuya was ok, no action was needed.
Then Renji glanced around and addressed his pack. "Alright guys. I gotta go; my boyfriend is waitin' for me."
Everyone smiled at the reminder that their Alpha had a secret partner, and gave nods of understanding as they shoo'd him. "Go on, take care of him! – Tell 'im we say hi! – See ya later, Ren!"
The Rukon Dog turned, walking out of the courtyard. Before turning the corner, he glanced back at Byakuya for just a moment. Then he was gone.
Byakuya took a deep, steadying breath, realizing he shouldn't leave right away, or it could look suspicious. He finished his drink as he made a couple of rounds. He made sure he had at least a few words for every pack member, even if it was just a 'Hey, how are you?' or 'It's so great that Ikkaku and Yumi are engaged.'
The whole time, he sensed Shuu not to far away, and it made him feel secure.
Then he announced his own departure for his 'late meeting'. Good luck wishes followed him as he left the courtyard.
The sun was setting, turning the air pink as shadows lengthened. He started walking towards Renji's quarters, and had only been walking for a few minutes when he felt his partner's energy nearby. His heart beat faster as he wondered just how intoxicated the Rukon Dog had gotten.
Just as he was passing an alley, the reiatsu got stronger, and a hand shot out to grab his wrist and pull him into the darkness. He found his back against the wall, his predatory boyfriend looming over him.
Renji still had that almost feral look, hungry cinnamon eyes roaming his body before meeting his. Then he was being kissed roughly as the bigger Soul Reaper pressed up against him.
Oh, gods, Renji was already turned on!
Byakuya melted into the kiss, giving a soft moan. The response was a growl as Renji's hands caught his wrists and pinned them to the wall. "Mine. My 'Kuya. My Taicho. So fuckin' sexy, want you so bad!"
He nodded frantically as Renji ground against him in the most suggestive way. Then the younger man paused, panting raggedly. Still pinned to the wall, Byakuya whispered, "What's wrong, honey?"
Renji groaned, lifting one hand to hit the wall next to his head. "I threw the stupid contest, but I think I was too late." Guilty auburn eyes met his as his partner continued in a whisper. "I'm really, really drunk, Taicho. Last time I was this drunk, I almost hurt Shuu."
Byakuya moaned as his boyfriend ground against him once more, then pulled away. He saw that Renji looked so very disappointed as the crimsonette asked quietly, "You… you wanna go to the manor instead? I'll walk you there, then I'll go home and leave you alone."
Byakuya blinked as he processed the words. Renji was offering to walk him to the manor… so there would be no chance of hurting him. Touched by the offer, he whispered, "My sweet Renji, always worried about what I want. For once, why don't you tell me what you want?"
The crimsonette hesitated for a long moment before replying softly. "I dunno how well I'd behave but I… I really want you to wanna come home with me."
Byakuya smiled as he stepped close and lifted his arms behind the bigger Soul Reaper's neck.
"Then take me home, Renji."