Here comes the bride! WOOOHOOO! We finally made it. (throws confetti) Thanks for everyone's reviews and words of encouragement it helps me a lot in getting out of my funk. I really hope you love this latest chapter, I also added someone (evil laugh then chokes towards the end) hope you love him just as much as I do =)
Hot Spring Week 7: Wedding Day
The last day of the cherry blossoms seemed to bloom beautifully, more specifically on this day. Rukia walked down the aisle wearing a modern strapless gown. Her veil was long and it reached down to drag five inches to the floor. The ends of the veil were shrouded in Swarovski Crystals in the shape of snowflakes as it glimmered in the spring's sunlight. Everyone was asked to wear black with hints of white. Most people might have thought the idea of black was just for funerals. But as Renji watched his bride walking down the aisle as the only one wearing pure white in a sea of black, she stood out and she stood out beautifully. White roses with hints of pink cherry blossoms adorned her bouquet. Byakuya held her arms as he proudly walked her down the aisle. While guests softly gasped at the wondrous display.
It was a remarkable sight as pink and white petals fell in abundance, carpeting the green bed of grass in a pinkish tone. The stoic man lifted his sister's veil, glancing at her violet eyes that filled with tears. He kissed her and whispered his words of love and adoration as he handed her to Renji, who nodded to his best man. Byakuya stood beside Renji, with Grimmjow standing as a groomsman. Rukia looked beside her to see Rangiku wearing a beautiful black gown, shedding tears. Beside the busty blonde, stood her best friend Ichigo who smiled at her.
Although recently acquiring an abundance of girlfriends, Rukia could have had the option of having a line of bridesmaids. It was a little too late to change things at the last minute but she didn't want to. Ichigo was her best friend, even though Rangiku became close in time. The blonde was still Renji's friend. Ichigo was special to her because he was her first friend, outside of Renji. So when she asked him to be by her side at the wedding, he of course disagreed. When she explained the importance of it, he accepted the role, even if Grimmjow poked fun in calling him a bridesmaid.
They said their vows as her heart leaped, finally hearing the words she'd been holding her breath to hear.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife."
He lifted her petite frame as he kissed his wife passionately, not waiting to be told to kiss his bride. He tasted the salt of her tears while he licked her lips. They parted to stare at each other as she whispered the words that stopped his heart.
"I'm officially Rukia Abarai," she blushed, staring at him as he held her tighter and kissed her again.
Everyone cheered as friends and guests parted for the newly wedded couple as they made their way to the castle.
Rukia waited for her guests to be seated at the wedding reception, while they announced the bride and groom. The doors opened to a winter wonderland as Rukia paused in mid-step with her groom looking around just as surprised.
It was magnificent, the dark lighting engulphed the room as white LED snowflakes twinkled in movement, giving off the effect of falling snow all over the room. She glanced up at the ceiling to see a hanging chandelier made with more Swarovski crystals with hundreds of shaped icicles. White tables settled on white for an added effect of a snow-covered floor. Two ice sculptures were placed behind seats of a setup table for just the bride and groom. They were both tall and intimidating, the one behind Renji was his form in a samurai outfit while her sculpture had her wearing a kimono, like a whimsical Japanese princess, her headdress adorning detailed snowflakes.
She found Byakuya who sat at a table near hers, watching her reaction. Rukia looked to Renji with a smile as she whispered to him, as he nodded. She held her dress up to walk up to her brother while he stood. She didn't hesitate to hug him in a tight hold. He heard her sniffles and felt her body shake with utter happiness.
"Thank you, I love it!"
He smiled as he rubbed her back. "You deserve everything and more. I know you wanted a wedding in winter but you choose to have it in spring, to please me," he told her as he held her face, whipping away her tears, "You're the one thing I'm most proud of. You have given me so much joy in my life, its worth more than anything this life can offer. I love you, Rukia... Abarai," he said as he gave a grin while she smiled through her tears. He gave her a kiss on her head as she headed back to her husband to sit at the table.
The room was filled with important clients, politicians, and government officials, some were friends while others were invited simply to be in their good graces.
Guests conversated amongst themselves, eating fabulous delicacies, Kuchiki's top chefs could only provide. The finest sake was provided much to Shunsui's delight while Nel made sure he ate as well. When the last entree was served, they settled with a beautiful entertainment of acrobats. Women dressed in sparkling silver as the men dressed in flames of red and orange. It was a dance of ice and fire, ending with a dramatic finish with a shaped ice sculpture of a heart when suddenly two men spewed flames at the frozen display. The flames danced around the heart, causing the audience to watch in excitement. Two acrobats stood and spoke in a Mandarin Dialect, they must have bee invited from China by her brother.
"Ài jiù xiàng yī chǎng bèi huǒ shàng jiāo yóu de yǒuyì. Yī kāishǐ huǒyàn, fēicháng piàoliang, jīngcháng yánrè huo xiōngměng, dàn réngrán zhǐyǒu guāng hé shǎnshuò. Suízhe àiqíng rìyì lǎolíng huà, wǒmen de xīnlíng zhújiàn chéngshú, wǒmen de àiqíng biàn dé xiàng méitàn yīyàng, shēn shēn ránshāo, wúfǎ èzhì. - Lǐxiǎolóng," when the male and female acrobats spoke in unison, an announcer spoke in translation.
"Love is like a friendship caught on fire. In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning and unquenchable. - Bruce Lee."
The words rang true, especially in her case with Renji. Their friendship did catch on fire and she was too consumed in his flames that she never wanted to leave his side.
Once everyone's stomachs were settled, they brought out a beautiful six-layered cake that towered over her. Sugar Snowflakes wrapped around the white cake as it seemed to dance as it jutted out. It was delicious too, white chocolate frosting on a white layered cake. The snowflake was so intricate and beautiful Rukia was almost inclined to not even eat it until Renji prompted her by saying it was good. He was right of course, the taste of the sugary confection made her hum in approval. She was over the moon, everything was glorious, like a dream she didn't want to wake up from as she smiled.
The best man made his speech, causing Rukia to cry once more and Renji to feel elated at the man's words of finding him to be the only man for his sister. The maid of honor's speech was more embarrassing as she was not afraid to mention, Renji and Rukia's passionate love, hinting on their intimate actions with carefully placed sexual innuendos. The announcer made an appearance once again, once it seemed everyone was finished eating cake.
"If you could please join us, while our bride and groom head to the dance floor for their first dance."
Renji stood, taking his wife's hand as they headed out to the dancefloor.
"Wonder what boring drawl, we're going to dance to?" Renji jested as he placed one hand on her hip while his other held her hand in his. She placed her hand on his shoulder as she gave him a smile.
"He might surprise you," she told him as he gave a soft chuckle. The soft hum of the violin played in the background but the lyrics were familiar as Renji eyed Byakuya with a quizzical look. The stoic man raised his cup with a nod as they began to dance to their song. It wasn't a typical wedding song but it was their song and he smiled as he held her while they glided across the dancefloor.
But you always find a way to keep me right here waiting
You always find the words to say to keep me right here waiting
The electric guitar played with the violin and it was music to Renji's ears. It was a song that whenever it came on, he couldn't help but think of her. Through their tough times and heartache, to finally get to this moment.
I hope you're not intending
To be so condescending it's as much as I can take
and you're so independent
you just refuse to bend so I keep bending till I break
She was an independent, smart, and beautiful and he laughed at how true he was willing to bend over backward, just to watch her smile. They both had at times talk to each other in a condescending manner, but refused no matter how stubborn they were, to apologize to one another before the day ended.
I've made a commitment
I'm willing to bleed for you
I needed fulfillment
I found what I need in you
He did find fulfillment in those violet eyes, ashamed of waiting so long to express how he felt about her all those years. Sure he had to wait until she was of legal age but even when she did become a woman. He continued to hide his feelings for her until they ate at him. It was only when he felt the fear of another man having her, that he angrily lashed back. He was such a fool. He was glad that he was able to have her in the end.
Why can't you just forgive me
I don't want to relive all the mistakes I've made along the way
But I always find a way to keep you right here waiting
I always find the words to say to keep you right here waiting
All those years, while he fumbled like an idiot, trying to distance himself. She stood by his side as a companion, waiting there. If that day at the cafe with Kaien Shiba turned out differently, he knew deep in his heart he would have waited for her like she did all those years.
But you always find a way
To keep me right here waiting
You always find the words to say to keep me right here waiting
And if I chose to walk away would you be right here waiting
Searching for the things to say to keep me right here waiting
It was a beautiful rock ballad, with its slow melody and edge that fit both their personalities so well. Everyone clapped and cheered for the couple, as Renji dipped her to give her a heartwarming kiss. Most of the guests left their seats to stand in groups, as politicians cozied up with law officials. While others just mingled or chose to dance to traditional music in a slow dance with the bride and groom.
"May I cut in?" they heard a familiar voice as Renji looked to frown a little. Seeing one of Kuchiki's important clients, Kaien Shiba. He was dancing with a beautiful woman with black hair that matched her elegant black dress. As she bowed to Rukia and smiled. "What's that look for? You're not still pissed at me?" he chuckled as Renji rolled his eyes and remained silent.
"Kaien Shiba! Is this your lovely wife?" Rukia smiled, glancing up at the woman who was taller than her.
"Yes, Miyako Shiba. It's so great to finally meet you. Kaien told me how adorably cute you two were, I'm so happy you two tied the knot," she laughed, giving her husband a squeeze.
"So Renji, an even trade, you can dance with my wife while I dance with yours. She may step on your toes, she's not as graceful," he chuckled when his wife poked him in the ribs.
"You behave yourself, Shiba-san," she scolded him with a pout. He gave her a kiss on the mouth to show how sorry he was as she accepted with a smile. They both looked to Renji as he sighed and nodded. He let go of Rukia and danced with Miyako, he had a hard time paying attention to his partner as he couldn't help but glare over at Kaien who seemed to be making Rukia laugh.
"That's my silly Cupid," he heard his partner say as Renji looked in her direction to find her glancing over at her husband. "You have to forgive his crass ways, it runs in his family. They are so blunt, nosy, and meddling," she giggled as she shook her head. "But they are also loyal, caring, and have a kind heart. I can't tell you how many times he tries to play matchmaker over the years. I guess because he didn't want anyone to miss out in being without their soulmate. For many years, he was too busy with keeping the Shiba company in its steady course that he forgot the most important things. It was only when I was in a car accident and the thought of losing me forever that he changed his whole priorities. I don't fault him for working as hard as he did. He was just trying to keep his family's business relevant. I admire him for leading his family to where they are now. I also admire him for stepping aside when I needed him the most. So don't be too upset with him, I know he's a handful, but he had the most sincere intentions in mind," she told him as she smiled.
"I'm mostly mad at myself for being too afraid to tell her the truth. To believe that I wasn't enough for her," he said as the woman expressed a sadden look.
"The Kuchiki name, as well as the Shiba name, could be intimidating. A little girl who worked at a little cafe with her family, making the best ohagi in my town. That's all I had to offer but to him, it was enough to capture his heart and I was happy with that."
Renji laughed, thinking of the little place that a successful man like Kaien would want to meet. It was the place he fell in love and even felt it was relevant to make important negotiations there.
"So can I have my wife back? I'm starting to get a little jealous here," Kaien came up to Renji with a smile. He handed Rukia to Renji as he picked up his wife to give her a kiss on her neck while she giggled. "See you two," he winked, causing the newlyweds to smile at their affection.
"He's a good man but that doesn't change the fact that he still irks me," Renji laughed as he stared at his wife who frowned.
"Leave him alone Renji. You should hear how much he loves his wife," she told him.
"I know! He looks at her in the same way I look at you," he told her as he looked at her seriously, causing her to blush.
"Renji!" she held him close, placing her head onto his chest as they danced.
They danced until the announcer expressed for everyone to clear the dancefloor, asking for the bride to remain as Renji kissed her and left to sit at the table. Byakuya got up, straightening his tie as he buttoned up his jacket to walk towards her.
Holding each other in a dancing position as the instruments played the melody as she smiled at him. He had remembered, she had always talked with her brother about marriage even as a little girl. Asking him questions constantly that he didn't hesitate to answer, no matter how busy he was. She asked if she could borrow his song that he danced with her sister at their wedding. He told her that maybe one day that she would have a song of her own with her husband. She was upset of course with him, telling him that he didn't want to share. The issue was resolved when he agreed. After so many years, she thought he had forgotten. Yet there was the melody playing and she couldn't help but be in tears.
Our shadows stretch out on the pavement
As I walk in the twilight with you
If we could be together like this forever
Holding hands, it's almost enough to make me cry
So what if the song described two lovers enjoying each others company. It was special to her brother and it was special to her. Not knowing enough about her sister hurt, but her brother would tell her certain things her sister loved like foods or songs. Wanting to be so much like the woman she was too young to remember, but only met in dreams.
This moment
When the two of us cuddle up
To gaze at the first snow flower of the year
Is overflowing with happiness
This was truly the happiest day of her life and she was glad, her brother was right there for her to experience it with. Glad the two men in her life could reconcile because they both loved her. They both never truly forced her to do anything she didn't want, yet they both molded her to the woman she was today. She felt him rub her fingers as he sighed, content with her in his arms.
If I should lose you
I'll become a star and shine on you
I'll be with you even on nights
When your smile is wet with tears
"Her star is probably shining the brightest right now," she whispered, feeling the warm tears cascade down her face as he held her tighter. She loved listening to this song, the girl's smooth beautiful voice and impactful strings in the background. It also affected her, thinking of her sister not here.
The pure white snow flowers
Bury this town
Softly drawing memories in our hearts
Together forever with you...
As the song ended, the clapping seemed to be distant while she continued to hold him in her arms. When she felt him stop. She looked up to see his face. He gave her a light smile as he held her cheeks in the palm of his hand.
"I have a surprise for you," he whispered as he looked to the band and nodded his head.
"There's more," she laughed, whipping her face.
The band began to play Chappie's lullaby and she felt tears begin to fall. 'I don't know how much my heart can take,' she thought, squeezing his hand. Suddenly there was laughter in the room as small chappies, she assumed were smaller people, running towards her. Her eyes opened up as she covered her mouth. Her face, completely flustered as she couldn't contain her laughter. Jumping on her brother to give him the biggest hug. She let him go, her attention reverting back to the Chappies as they danced around her as Rukia playfully did a little shimmy. When the lullaby ended and they began to run off, much to Rukia's disappointment, one of them stopped to turn around and ran towards her to beckon her to bend down. When she did, it gave her a little kiss and hug. There were 'Awwws' and giggles amongst the crowd.
She was so overjoyed as she went back to her husband. Renji couldn't help but smile at his wife's excitement, her smile made his heart flutter. She sat down near him and kissed his mouth.
"Your brother is making me look bad," he drank from his cup as she chuckled.
"You don't have to worry. You're such a creative person, you'll think of something," she told him seductively and at that moment he wanted to leave and consummate the marriage as Mr. and Mrs. Abarai. She grinned at his lustful eyes, "be patient my husband, we have all night." He loved the sound of that as he showed his canines.
They continued to play the traditional music as others began to float about the room once more, in conversation.
Grimmjow drank from his drink as he watched the politicians and the wealthy elite hobnobbing amongst each other. He knew his grandfather was here, somewhere, he just kept his distance in this crowded room. He heard his girlfriend groan and stand up in her seat. She walked up to Byakuya, whispering something in his ear as he nodded, while she happily skipped to the DJ. The DJ lowered the music as he handed her the mic. Grimmjow sat back, looking at his girlfriend curiously. 'This should be good,' he thought to himself as he gave a Chesire cat-like grin.
"Hello everyone, most of you know me as Neliel Oderschvank. You really outdid yourself Byakuya Kuchiki this is very sweet and everything is perfect. You even have DJ Kongō, who is a legend, by the way. Byakuya you have to give me his number," she said as she gave a wink to the DJ who blushed and laughed.
"Just ask me sweetie and I'll give you anything you want," he said on his microphone as she laughed. Grimmjow getting annoyed.
"That's so sweet," she patted his head as she turned around, "but I didn't come here to only praise Byakuya for a good job and get the world's greatest DJ's number."
Byakuya paused in drinking from his cup as he frowned a bit, glancing at the bubbly green-haired girl.
"I've had enough with the traditional music but come on, your wasting DJ Kongō's skills right now. I know most of you snobs don't always play this type of music at your wild parties. Most of you old perverts want a damn show. Sorry, Byakuya I'm commandeering the music. No need to be so shy and reserved, you probably have a few whips and chains at home anyways. So Rukia and Renji get your ass back on the dance floor, this song is dedicated to you lovebirds. The rest of you lets dance to some real music," she turned to whisper to the DJ as he smiled and nodded. Rukia and Renji timidly came to the dance floor as upbeat music began to play.
It's you and me
Moving at the speed of light into eternity, yeah,
Tonight is the night to join me in the middle of ecstasy.
Others watched, looking around, afraid to step onto the dance floor as Nel huffed and rolled her eyes. She grabbed Tatsuki and Orihime along with their boyfriends to start dancing. Beckoning everyone to join until her eyes found a set of blues. Her short black dress, reached way above her knees, dangerously high enough that if she bent just a little she just might give a little show. Her dress dipped low in the front and also giving a full view of her back. She moved her body towards him to the music expertly as she reached for him while he drank from his cup and rose to join her.
'Cause we've only got one night
Double your pleasure
Double your fun and dance
Forever (ever, ever)
He moved his hips with hers but there wasn't much he had to do as she did most of the work in dancing. She turned abruptly, giving him a mischevious smile as she began to mouth the words silently while she moved her hips.
Feels like we're on another level
Feels like our love's intertwined,
We can be two rebels breaking the rules
Me and you, you and I
She pointed to herself and then him as he chuckled loving the sound of that. They were rebels, breaking tradition by doing whatever the hell they wanted. She turned to grind her ass onto him as he held her waist. He heard her giggle as he gripped her hips while she bent her upper body forward, as her ass pushed closer.
I'm driving, you can take the front seat
Just need you to trust me
He did trust her, maybe not to drive his car but trusted her with his heart. This was what love was, right? This whole time thinking it was this sappy bullshit some of these girls he met wanted to hear. Nel not only made it interesting and fun but he made him feel deeply, made him truly think. She called out his shit, sucked him off like she invented the blowjob, and remained seductively sweet.
Sending for an angel to bring me your heart
Girl, where did you come from?
Got me so undone,
Gazing in your eyes got me singing what a beautiful lady
No ifs, ands or maybes
I'm releasing my heart and it's feeling amazing
There's no one else that matters
You love me and I won't let you fall, girl
She turned to face him as she used her flexibility to move backward while wrapping her legs around his waist. She trusted him completely, hanging upside down while he held her as her hair touched the dancefloor. She laughed hysterically. Once the music picked up, he placed her down as her stilettos touched the floor. She showed her skills once more, swaying to the music, jumping as her breasts jiggled. He wondered what the fuck she put on her dress that her breasts hadn't popped out already.
Forever, ever, ever
Forever, ever, ever
Forever, ever, ever
Forever on the dance floor
The song ended as the DJ continued to play music to get the party going while more and more people joined the dancefloor. Grimmjow and Nel continued to have a good time as she worked to give him several hard-ons by repeatedly grinding her ass onto him. After several songs, they finally sat down to catch their breaths and drink something.
"I think those two were placing bets on whether my breasts were going to pop out of my dress," she told Grimmjow as she pointed to the older men, one that he knew was a contractor he used for Pantera's shops he had built. They seemed to glance at them and automatically looked away when Grimmjow locked eyes with both of them.
"I was thinking the same thing too. What the fuck you use ... super glue?" he told her eyeing her dress. She laughed as she drank from her drink.
"Nipple Concealers and tape."
He couldn't help but laugh as he fingered her small black dress and saw the silicone that covered her nipple. She quickly hit his hand as she fixed herself. Nel laughed watching her father drinking as he danced with two lovely ladies. She saw her Uncle talking to a government official with Kaoru by his side as the younger man glared at the dance floor. She saw his eyes focused on his mother who was having a good time, dancing with Isshin. Nel saw Ichigo sitting beside Orihime, who wore a string black dress. She watched Yuzu come to the table to whisper into Ichigo's ear as he nodded, taking his sister to the dancefloor. Nel got up to speak to Orihime as she glanced at the younger boy. She looked to Nel who told her that it was okay. Orihime watched Ichigo having a good time slow dancing with his sister as the music's tempo slowed down to give people a chance to rest.
Orihime walked up to Kaoru, who looked at her curiously as he began to blush.
"Would you like to dance, Kaoru?" she asked him as he seemed to become speechless.
"Kaoru, a beautiful lady is asking to dance, it's only right in respecting her wishes and accepting her invitation," Jushiro told him as Kaoru looked at the man and then at Orihime as he nodded. She took his hand as they reached the dance floor. She placed his hand on her hip as he began to turn red as she held his other hand with the other. He was fourteen but he was a tall teen as he was two inches taller than her, even with heels.
"Are you enjoying yourself?" she asked him as he nervously nodded, avoiding staring at her. That didn't help as his eyes looked at her neckline to her chest to quickly look away and turn beet red.
"Y...Yes!" he told her as he settled on looking on the dancefloor, he watched his mother who was having a good time as he sighed and looked away.
"You don't look very happy," she asked him.
"I... I am Inoue-san," he told her as she bit her lip, knowing he was lying. Figuring that Isshin was the issue, decided to interrupt the duo as they danced closer to them.
"Hey! Mind if I dance with Papa-san?" Orihime asked sweetly as Isshin was happy to take the offer as Ikumi simply laughed and shook her head. She looked at her son, who avoided staring at her as she grabbed him and began to dance with him.
"You've been staring at me all night with a glum look. What is it?" she asked her son.
"It's nothing!"
"Yeah, bullshit! I know when your lying," she asked him as he looked at her but remained silent, "Is this about not joining you to play video games last night?"
He knew where she was last night when he checked her room to find it empty. He chewed on his inner cheek as he held his tongue as he nodded his head and whispered, "No."
"That's the second damn lie, Kaoru," she growled at him.
"Well, being honest will only make things difficult," he said as he looked away.
"Is it about Isshin and me?" she rubbed the back of his neck as he shrugged her hand away.
"I don't care who you fuck," he scoffed.
"Hey watch how you talk to me," she stopped to glare at him, "Your mother has needs you know, sorry to burst your bubble," she angrily whispered, trying to keep her voice low.
"Could you have at least opened your legs to someone who had money," he chuckled.
'Slap'
He felt the sting of his mother's hand as he looked at her in surprise. Only those near them heard the slap, while the music played. He looked around in embarrassment. She made to apologize only for him to swiftly walk away. She followed her son to the balcony, away from prying eyes. He stood leaning against the balcony as she placed her hand on his back.
"Sorry!" she told him as he shook his head.
"You're not sorry. I deserved to be slapped, it was a pretty shitty thing to say to you," he calmly expressed, while she remained there, feeling guilty for slapping him.
"I'm not in love with him, it's just-" she was interrupted by his laugh as he shook his head.
"sex? That makes it so much better," he said condescendingly.
"Hey, don't you dare fucking judge me."
"Just leave me alone mom. Go, have a good time with your fuck buddy. I was having a perfectly good time hanging out with Jushiro as he introduced me to other architects," he mumbled, as he looked towards the ocean. It was then that it dawned on her, what this was really about. Her son never had someone to look up to after his father's death, now her son was becoming attached to this man, Jushiro Ukitake.
"I see," she sighed as he turned to look at her quizzically. "It's not about me fucking but who I'm fucking. So opening my legs to a wealthy man, huh?" She looked at him as he glared at her. "Not just any wealthy man right? Well, let me speak to Jushiro about visiting him tonight," she teased as he angrily looked at her.
"Don't you dare," he told her.
"Don't what? Isn't that what you want?"
"I ... I didn't say that. You're going to ruin everything, damn it. You think I'm joking? So fine go ahead and screw him and ruin my chance at having something good in my life," he spat back as he began to whip away tears from his cheeks roughly. She grabbed the side of his head so he could face her.
"Aww, baby! Is this what's this is about, you see a dad in him?" she looked at him with concern as he moved away upset. He looked up to see Jushiro, looking at them as he caught the last few words of Ikumi's mouth. Kaoru laughed at the irony of the situation as he glanced at his mother.
"Like he would want to be associated with a dysfunctional family like us," he chuckled as he ran away. Jushiro watched him leave with concern. He watched Ikumi cross her arms as she leaned on the balcony as she glanced at the waves.
"What are you trying to accomplish by hanging with my son?" she asked him, her tone sounding strained, trying to reel in her anger.
"I didn't think hanging with the boy was an issue, he's a smart child."
"Is this some sort of thing you like to do?"
"I don't understand what your question?"
She turned her head to glare at him, "You missed out with your own son, so you're trying to use my son as a replacement." She watched the man's happy demeanor change to a serious one. He walked up to her as she slowly swallowed.
"You will refrain in your silly assumptions of my actions towards your son. As I would refrain from stating that Isshin is simply a replacement because you ran out of batteries," he told her.
"Maybe I did but that's none of your fucking business. You stay away from Kaoru, I don't need you causing him any more confusion."
"Do you think that to be wise?" He quirked up a brow as she angrily stared at him.
"You're fucking unbelievable, he's not your son, he's mine," she roughly told him as she pushed him away while she made it back to the banquet. Jushiro sighed as he looked out at the waves. He wasn't trying to cause any issues, he just thought Kaoru needed a friend. Was he really using Kaoru to fill in what he missed out with Grimmjow? He was just being his usual kind self, he sighed again before he headed back.
Orihime danced with Isshin as she worried about Kaoru after his little spat with his mother. The older man cheered her up by twirling her around and doing silly dances. She was laughing so hard that she had to relieve herself. After coming out of the bathroom, and heading to the dancefloor she accidentally bumped into someone, as the drink fell onto the person's jacket.
"Oh, I am so sorry," she stated grasping napkins to clean up his shirt. She looked up to find a handsome older man, that looked about Isshin's age. With light brown hair and brown calculating eyes as she found the man familiar. "Great, I clumsily bumped into a Judge. I .. I apologize, Aizen-san!" she bowed a bit nervous, everyone knew who Souske Aizen was, smart and handsome and quickly rising in power. Currently being nominated in a seat at Supreme Court. He glanced at her like he'd seen a ghost, causing her to nervously glance away.
"I apologize, you just remind me of someone I knew long ago," he told her as he was satisfied with the wet stain on his jacket. Orihime looked at the man and could think of only one person that came to mind, that could have reminded him.
"D...Did you know my mother? Miku Inoue?" she timidly asked. The man fixed eyes on her as he began to slightly grin.
"Ahh Orihime," he mentioned her name as she tensed at the name. "I knew your mother and father for as long as I could remember. We drifted apart, due to ... your parent's line of work. I couldn't associate myself with them, especially with my own endeavors," he grinned at her blushing, knowing exactly about her parent's occupation.
Orihime nodded in understanding, "I ... I don't really know my parents. My brother and I decided to not associate with them either. He's raised me ever since, I was three," she conveyed.
"Sora Inoue, he just made partner with Kuchiki firm. Forgive me, when I heard his name, I didn't realize that it could be Miku's son," he smiled, causing the girl's nerves to ease a little but wondered why he didn't mention her father's name.
"Orihime!" she heard Ichigo's worried voice call as she saw his face amongst the crowd, heading over to her. "There you are, my dad said you had to go to the bathroom and when you didn't return. I got a little worried," he told her as he gave a small kiss on her cheek.
"That's because I kept her... apologies, Sousuke Aizen," he lifted his hand to give the other man a shake, which Ichigo suspiciously took.
"Ichigo Kurosaki, you're that judge, right?" he asked him curiously as the older man nodded.
"Yes, You must be that esteemed young residential doctor from Karakura Hospital. I tend to give to a significant amount of hospital foundations and your name is brought up amongst circles," he expressed with admiration in his eyes.
"Thanks!," he told him, humbly accepting his praise as he looked to Orihime, "Rukia wants to see you for something and she doesn't want to tell me so..."
"Okay," she nodded as she looked to Sousuke, "It was great meeting you."
"Likewise, I hope this won't be the last," he looked almost disappointed at her departure as she smiled nervously.
"I ...I don't believe so," she told him, a little unsure, as she bowed before she left with her fiancee. Ichigo looked behind him to glance at the judge, a little irritated at his attention to his fiancee. He heard about him, nothing but good things in fact, but he just didn't like how his eyes remained focused on Orihime for some reason.
"What did he want?" he asked her as she looked at him.
"Oh, I accidentally bumped into him and spilled a drink all over him. He said I looked familiar,"
"I bet he did," Ichigo grumbled, still looking at the man, but then turned when Orihime stopped.
"He does know me. Well, my parents and Sora. I... I think he's the man who was friends with them, the one in the p..picture," she told him as she looked sorrowfully at him. Ichigo looked at her worried eyes as he held her close. They made it to Rukia's table as the petite girl thanked Ichigo and shooed him away, much to Ichigo's annoyance. She grabbed the auburn-haired girl by the side.
"So I've always wanted some pop star to sing at my wedding, but they are all annoying and full of themselves. Plus, you're much more gorgeous than any of them," she smiled at Orihime, who looked at her with wide-eyes, knowing what she was asking her.
"I... I can't sing," she yelled, Rukia hearing the anxiety in the young girl's voice. "You're the one with the better voice Rukia."
"Thank you so much but it's my wedding, I shouldn't have to sing at my own wedding, " she gave the girl her most pouted expression. "Also at the sleepover, you sounded great and your friends confirmed it as well. You're just a little shy in showing your beautiful voice. I bet Ichigo's never heard you?" she smiled, quirking up her brow at the girl who shook her head, confirming her question.
"W... What do I sing?" she bit her fingernail, looking at everyone who she was going to sing in front of.
"Think of a lovely song that you know, a song that you would dedicate to Ichigo," she rubbed the auburn-haired girl's features.
Orihime thought of a song, it was from the 'Android 77' movie she was obsessed with. She loved a particular song that played as the main theme of the character's love story. It was a girl who was completely enraptured by this man's love and there was nothing she could do, she just didn't know if she was good enough.
Rukia looked at the girl, noticing that she was thinking of a song in her head, "It's stupid Rukia." Rukia shook her head, knowing just by looking at her distant look that it was a song from the heart. She gave the girl more words of encouragement before she beckoned Tatsuki to take her up to the stage and notify Nel, so she could introduce her. Orihime looked at her friend with a worried look.
"Orihime, I know that look and your going to be fine. You could have been those superficial pop star's yourself," she giggled as her friend gave her a frown, "but you're doing something more beneficial with those kids. This is just helping someone out on her special day, you don't want to disappoint Rukia on her wedding day, now do ya?" she asked the girl, who looked at the petite bride who waved at her with a huge smile on her face and a thumbs up.
"No"
"Great, plus you look absolutely sexy," she kissed her friend and guided her to Nel. The green-haired girl whispered to the DJ and when the song he was playing finally ended he stopped the music, while the other musicians behind him, settled their instruments.
"We have a special treat for you tonight. My lovely friend, the talented, sweet, and sexy Orihime Inoue is going to perform a song for us. I know most of you are wondering, 'I've never heard of this pop star,' because she isn't one. She's actually way more gorgeous than those superficial, plasti-" a cough was heard from her friend Tatsuki, stopping her friend from rambling on, "My apologies, let's give a hand to my adorable friend, Orihime Inoue."
Most everyone who knew her, gave a clap of encouragement as others clapped not wanting to be rude.
Orihime was told to tell them the song that she wanted to sing, it was one that the DJ already had stored as he gave the piano and strings the music sheet on their tablet screen. They provided a microphone to Orihime as she nervously thanked the provider and looked out at the crowd. She swallowed, noticing all eyes on her as she focused on just one. She felt her body's anxiety simply fade away, looking at his amber eyes as she smiled at him.
"H...Hello, everyone. I am Orihime Inoue and I wanted to dedicate a song to the bride. I want to be her voice and convey her feelings through song to the man, she loves unconditionally."
She nodded her head to the musicians as the piano played, along with the sweet violin sound in the background. She gave her brightest smile as she began to sing.
Ichigo was confused when he heard that his fiancee was going to perform. He didn't even know she sang, there were times she would sing silly songs, but she would stop whenever he was near. She looked absolutely gorgeous as the lights shined on her perfect features and her auburn hair shined bright.
Under your spell again
I can't say no to you
Crave my heart and it's bleeding in your hand
I can't say no to you
Shouldn't let you torture me so sweetly
Now I can't let go of this dream
I can't breathe but I feel
Good enough
I feel good enough for you
Her voice was hypnotizing as he sat motionless, listening to the words. Was she conveying that she couldn't say no to him? He deeply felt it was the other way around, he wouldn't ever deny those pleading eyes of hers. She was the one to torture him sweetly with the taste of her body and the warm feeling he felt with her near.
Drink up sweet decadence
I can't say no to you
And I've completely lost myself and I don't mind
I can't say no to you
Shouldn't let you conquer me completely
Now I can't let go of this dream
Can't believe that I feel
Good enough
I feel good enough
It's been such a long time coming
But I feel good
She smiled at him and he felt his body go rigid. Fuck! He looked around the room and saw all eyes locked on her as he felt a low growl erupt from within his chest. Some of them were recording her and he wanted to break every fucking phone in the damn place. The man, Souske Aizen watched her, without batting an eye, and Ichigo felt himself lose it. But he settled down, it was really fucking hard, but he calmed himself. He decided to look at her instead.
And I'm still waiting for the rain to fall
Pour real life down on me
'Cause I can't hold on to anything
This good enough
Am I good enough
For you to love me too?
Was she good enough? The question he thought every day was, was he good enough? The other question of loving her too? There was no question how much he loved and returned his feelings for her that she had for him all these years.
So take care what you ask of me
'Cause I can't say no
She sang to him directly, staring at him with her expressive eyes once more. Pleading with him as the song ended and everyone began to cheer. The sounds never reached his ears, he was too focused on her. She was a sweet, incredible, beautiful woman and he had the power to ask her to do anything he wanted. He wouldn't ever ask her to do anything that caused her pain, she trusted him immensely and he wasn't going to ruin that. She bowed, as a few whistles and catcalls, but she headed towards him as she began to smile. The DJ had returned to bringing dance tunes once she had finished. He held her in his arms to lean down, "I love you too, Orihime. That was beautiful," he kissed her neck as he heard her sigh, seeming to want to hear his approval while she hugged him back.
"Thank you," she whispered at him, seeing her eyes were gleaming, filled with tears. She smiled and kissed his lips as they settled at the table with her friends.
"So when you say you can't say no, does that imply in doing anything he asks also?" Nel curiously asked as Orihime began to redden.
"Hey, babe! It's like you're in my fucking head, I was going to ask that," Grimmjow chuckled as his girlfriend looked at him, giving him a sweet kiss on his lips.
"Aww, really?" she kissed him again when he nodded.
"The answer is, 'mind your damn business'. You two are unbelievable."
"Do you hear something Grimmjow?" she looked at her boyfriend, wrapping her arms around him.
"Not a damn thing," he grinned, kissing her neck as she looked at her timid friend.
"All jokes aside, Orihime, you were great," Nel congratulated her friend as she began to giggle when Grimmjow tickled her neck with his lips.
"Why I got stuck sitting at a table with you two," Ichigo growled.
"It's simple dumbass, we were both groomsmen. Well, I was a groomsman. I don't know what the fuck you were," Grimmjow glanced at him.
"A flower girl?" Nel added happily as Grimmjow laughed his ass off.
Ichigo not wanting to make a scene, rose up and took Orihime's hand, "Come on, Orihime, let's dance. Something tells me a certain two are still bitter about losing. How's your bottom, Nel?" he grinned, walking away with his lovely fiancee as they glared at him.
"You're still not cute anymore?" Nel yelled out as she crossed her arms upset.
Orihime looked at Ichigo who looked at her with a boyish grin as she bit her lip. "Maybe you shouldn't bait them," she told him as he shrugged.
"They'll get over it," he kissed her as they danced to the slow music, "Why didn't you ever tell me you had such a lovely voice?" He asked her the question, twirling her around as she blushed.
"I was too shy and I didn't think I was-"
"good enough?" he interrupted, giving her an impish grin. She laughed, as he made a small joke referencing to the song she just sang.
"Yeah!"
"You know you're perfect to me," he whispered, as she smiled, giving him a timid nod.
"You're perfect too," she expressed as he chuckled a little as he held her close.
"That's what I love about you, making me out to something I'm not. You're perfect and I'm not even-"
"good enough?" she smiled at him, tilting her head to the side.
They both laughed as he tickled her waist, causing her to laugh louder. Embarrassed she covered her mouth and glared at him, causing him to stop with a chuckle. Orihime leaned her head onto his shoulder, loving the feel of being in the arms of the man she loved. She looked to see that Nel was dancing with Grimmjow as well, but one look at her face she could tell her friend was still upset.
"Nel is still upset," she murmured as Ichigo looked over at the green-haired girl. Nel looked towards the couple, smiling at Orihime but then glared at Ichigo and immediately looked the other way. "Ichigo, just apologize."
"For what? If anything she's been saying comments to me all day," he told her as Orihime pouted and nodded.
"I guess your right, I just don't want my fiancee and best friend to have this little small feud amongst them," she bit the side of her lip as she avoided his stare. He looked at her sad features and couldn't help the words that came out of his mouth.
"Fine, I'll apologize to her," he told her.
"Great!" she gave him her biggest smile but then proceeded to guide their dance closer to the other couple.
"Nel-chan!" Orihime sweetly called out to her, as the girl turned and smiled at her sweet friend.
"Yes, Orihime-chan. My dearest friend."
"Could I cut in?" she asked her friend, who looked at her and then at Ichigo, a little confused.
"Ummm... sure," she let go of her boyfriend's hands as Orihime quickly took Grimmjow's hands. While Ichigo a little hesitant in leaving his girlfriend with the blue-haired man was giving him a huge grin.
Orihime danced with Grimmjow as she watched Nel awkwardly dance with her fiancee. Her face became startled when Ichigo began to talk. Orihime couldn't help but give a little giggle. He was apologizing to her friend, especially when he didn't have to.
"You manipulated him, into apologizing to Nel," she heard the blue-haired man ask as she looked at him curiously.
"I..I didn't manipulate him," she countered, frowning at him.
"No! My mistake, so he wanted to apologize on his own accord then, without you asking him?" He watched the beautiful features begin to concentrate hard on his question as she became a bit discouraged.
"N...Not at first but-"
"Then you got into his head by telling him some shit about not liking the hostility amongst Nel and him," Orihime's frown grew even more as she looked away, "You probably even gave him those pouted lips."
"I didn't mean to ... I... I just didn't want to see my best friend upset," she looked so down that he began to roll his eyes.
"For fuck sake, I was just fucking around. Even if it's slightly true, Ichigo would do anything for you, just like I would with Nel. I know you're not that type of person to manipulate someone," he told her as he chuckled. Orihime's mood began to change into a cheerful one as she smiled at him.
"It's true what Nel, Rangiku, and Ikumi say about you," she smiled while he gave a questioning brow at the auburn-haired girl, he held in his arms.
"Yeah? What's that?"
"Your rough around the edges but you have a big heart. I don't know why Ichigo is so worried about you," she shook her head as Grimmjow perked up at that little tidbit.
"That's because I wanted to have that pretty little voice screaming out my name while you were under me," he whispered only to laugh hysterically as he watched the wide-eyed expression of the girl, "Don't worry Orihime, That was before of course." She laughed nervously as he dipped her and gave a grin.
"Alright, Grimmy. Ichigo and I made up, let go of Orihime before he pops a blood vessel," Nel said with a smile on her face while holding onto Ichigo's hand. The orange-haired man was shooting daggers at Grimmjow as he righted the auburn-haired girl and gave a smug grin.
"You really need to lighten up, Ichigo. Doesn't stress affect your health?" he handed Orihime back to Ichigo as Nel skipped back into his arms, "So you should really not stress about who wants to fuck your fiancee. I guarantee every mother fucker in here has thought about it, more than once." He chuckled, kissing Nel on the neck as she giggled.
"He's right Ichigo. You don't see Grimmjow freaking out about me. Just minutes before, the Minister of Defense asked if I'd like to make an appointment with him," Grimmjow looked at his girlfriend with a frown as he stopped kissing her.
"He did? For what?" Orihime asked.
"Well it wasn't to learn tactical moves in fighting," she rolled her eyes. Grimmjow looked around the room, as he searched for the man. He made to head to his direction when he was stopped by his girlfriend.
"Where you going?" she glanced at him puzzled.
"I just want to introduce myself to the Minister," he growled.
"What was that about lightening up and de-stressing?" Ichigo added as Grimmjow glared at him.
"Jeez, Grimmy. I already declined his offer, so there's no need to scare the poor fella," Nel laughed, squeezing him and giving him a passionate kiss.
"I wasn't going to scare him, just wanted to ask a few questions about his development in military vehicles. He might like my suggestions," he said sarcastically.
"You're so full of shit," she laughed, receiving a grin from her boyfriend.
"He's always full of shit," Ichigo jested, receiving a glare from Grimmjow.
"And you're so filled with sunshine and have rainbows shooting out of your ass, you gloomy bitch," he growled out. Both men glared as Orihime decided to thank Grimmjow for the dance and kindly exited the dance floor while pulling Ichigo's hand.
Jinta glanced at Yuzu who was dancing with her sister and father. Happily laughing at her father's goofy antics. Toshiro was silently staring at someone in particular from the corner of his eye. He hadn't really spoken to the white-haired man since last night, they weren't planning on speaking about that, ever.
"Someone you know?" he asked the man who glanced in his direction, surprised he had been caught.
"Sort of," he hesitated, before he spoke again, "I'm gonna get something to drink at the bar," he made to stand up when Jinta did as well.
"I'll join you," he told him, seeing how the white-haired man was not too excited at the declaration but nodded and began to head to the bar. He ordered water with a cup of sake. Jinta ordered the same but replaced the water with bourbon. "I have to admit... that Byakuya knows how to throw a hell of a party, " he declared, drinking from his cup, continuing to stare at Yuzu.
"What made you assume he didn't know how to have a good time?"
Jinta looked at Toshiro like if he was honestly crazy for asking that, "You know of any ragers that Byakuya has over the weekend, I don't know about?"
"I'm just saying, sometimes you shouldn't judge someone, by the way, they conduct themselves professionally in public."
Jinta drank from his cup as he nodded at the point the other man was making, "I guess your right. All those tabloids saying you were an anal, spoiled brat, and pompous ass wasn't all true," he said, as Toshiro looked at the red-head. "Your not a spoiled brat or a pompous ass... maybe a little anal."
"Fuck you," he said in an aggravated low tone as he heard the man beside him give a loud chuckle. Karin suddenly ran up to Toshiro, giving a quick kiss as she took his glass of water and chucked it down.
"I hope you two are behaving yourselves," she handed her boyfriend the empty cup.
"We're both boy scouts," Jinta told her as he gave her a grin lifting his glass before he drank from it. She glanced at him suspiciously before looking at Toshiro, who smiled at her and leaned down to give her a kiss.
"No need to worry, we're behaving," he told her as she smiled at him and gave him another kiss before she left to head back to the dance floor.
"You didn't have to lie. I can handle Karin's yelling."
"I did it so it won't interrupt her having a good time, plus I don't need her to help me with an asshole," he said with a smile as Jinta chuckled, impressed with the man's quip.
"I like to have an order of warm sake, and please refill these young gentlemen's cups, as well."
Toshiro looked at the familiar man who glanced at him, with a poised demeanor and slight smirk.
"Mr. Hitsuyaga, I didn't know you were acquainted with Kuchiki," he asked as he thanked the bartender and began to drink the warm sake. Toshiro settled his anger as he made to answer the older man.
"I'm acquainted with Rukia's friend, Ichigo Kurosaki and I don't need you to order a drink for me," he stated, shoving the second drink away. The man looked a bit disappointed at the action.
"That's alright! Ichigo Kurosaki you say, I just met him and his lovely fiancee. How are you acquainted with him?"
"Nothing you need to concern yourself with, Aizen," he said, ordering a glass of rum as he chugged it down, feeling the warm effects of the liquor.
"Now Toshiro, your not still upset with me?" Sousuke asked in a sarcastic tone as he began to lightly chuckle. Toshiro glared at the man and looked away, trying to ignore the man as he drank from his cup.
"Fuck you, Aizen!" he growled out, Jinta looked at the white-haired man a bit surprised. He was always so respectful to someone older than him, now here he was blatantly disrespecting a government official.
"I guess that's a yes?" he drank from his cup as he eyed the young man whose eyes were staring at a pretty black haired girl, that seemed to be dancing with a man he knew to be Isshin Kurosaki. "I think what upsets you the most is that Momo came to me."
Toshiro held everything in him not to lash out as he kept his anger at bay. The older man studied the younger man's somewhat calm demeanor as he continued to eye the dance floor. "So that's how you're associated with Ichigo Kurosaki, must be a sister to dance with Dr. Kurosaki." He got a reaction from the boy as he flexed his fingers and grasped it into a tight fist while he drank the rest of his drink. "She's very beautiful and quite endowed for her age. What is she like 16, 17?" He smirked when Toshiro glared at him, but remained silent, waiting for him to say one more thing he didn't like.
Aizen chuckled as his eyes glanced at the dance floor to look at the dark-haired girl who seemed to look upset as she aggressively pushed her father away. While Isshin grabbed both his daughters in a tight hug, as Karin rolled her eyes and shook her head. While the other timid sister smiled and sweetly kissed her father.
"She has a bit of bark to her bite. Those type of girls are fun for a time, but you know my type, right Toshiro?"
"I don't give a shit, Aizen."
"Hmm," he said as he nodded. His eyes scanned the blonde Kurosaki twin, watching as the other sister was showing her how to sway to the music, as the blonde smiled and timidly tried to do what her sister wanted. "So Ichigo has two sisters? That blonde one looks absolutely stunning."
"I don't give a shit if you're a judge or the damn Prime Minister. I'll knock the shit out of you if you even think of fucking going near her or her sister," Jinta growled at him, getting the attention of the owner of the island.
"Is everything alright?" Byakuya asked, glancing at a heated Jinta. Sousuke eyed the red-head with a small smile as he shook his head.
"No, Byakuya! Just enjoying a conversation with these two boys," he said boys with a hint of sarcasm, as Jinta gritted his teeth. "Well, I truly enjoyed myself. Well keep in touch, Byakuya," he said, shaking the stoic black haired man's hand as they both bowed to each other. He looked at the dancefloor one last time, giving a lingering stare then nodded to the other men before he left.
"Nice friends, Byakuya. That one is a grade A fucking prick."
"He's someone of great importance, you will refrain from speaking to him in that way. I don't care if Renji calls you his brother, you will not embarrass me among my clients," he scolded as Jinta eyed the dark-haired man with a grin.
"You're already embarrassing the shit out of yourself, having assholes like that all on your own," He went to order another drink when Byakuya looked at the bartender.
"No more for this one, he's had enough." The bartender nodded his head as he put the bourbon away.
"Oi! What the fuck?"
"I will not tolerate a grown child, so forgive me if I don't want a drunk one as well."
"Mr. Kuichiki, Please forgive me, it wasn't Jinta who was at fault. I simply have a-," Toshiro pleaded, bowing to the man when he was interrupted.
"No fuck that, Toshiro. I don't need help with my battles. Yeah, I fucking spoke to that prick-"
"Lower your voice, Hanakari" he warned, eyes staring darkly at the younger man.
"I don't regret what I said to him and I won't regret knocking his ass out if he does something to piss me off again."
Byakuya looked at the fiery temperament of the younger man who stood inches from his face. "Get out, as a matter of fact, off this island. I suggest you don't make a scene. I will not have you upsetting the bride and groom on their wedding day."
Jinta looked at the happy couple and then looked at the other man and nodded.
"Just tell Yuzu or anyone else who asks that I had to speak to my manager about an upcoming fight," he whispered, as he clapped Toshiro's shoulder as the other man nodded. When Jinta made to leave, Toshiro looked at Byakuya.
"He may be crass and harsh in his ways, but he's not wrong. That gentleman was deplorable, I bid you good night, Mr. Kuchiki," he bowed, as he left to go to the dancefloor. Byakuya knew most of these men were corrupt and he also detested them, but he also knew how to the world worked. He didn't get ahead in this world by simply not knowing any of these men's secrets. He also learned when you finally confronted these men, you had to hit them when they had nothing else to grasp onto. Let them believe he was on their side, so when they were brought down he'd be the last person they'd ever suspected.
Rukia tossed her bouquet at the impatient women who lunged for the incoming floral arrangements. They jumped too late as the flowers gracefully landed in the hands of the black-haired woman, Ikumi. She rolled her eyes as she shook her head, she really didn't want to be in this. She was worried about her son's absence from the party when Rangiku grabbed her arm and told her to join them.
Renji tickled his wife's thigh while pulling the garter from her leg.
"Would you stop, that tickles," hitting his shoulder as she blushed. Rukia dropped her dress down, hiding her leg as Renji helped her up from the chair. Everyone hooted and hollered when Renji showed the garter to everyone. The announcer asked anyone who was single and unmarried to join the ranks. Renji looked around, noticing the absence of his brother and looked at Rukia who shrugged her shoulders. He turned around as all the men, who were either dragged or forced to stand there, waited for Renji to throw it. He tossed it behind his head as the garter landed on Jushiro's head, he bashfully pulled it off as Nel screamed and clapped the loudest.
The announcer told Ikumi to sit on the chair as he explained the rules, "The lovely woman on the seat will lift her leg to the eligible bachelor as he places the garter up her leg. Now the higher the garter goes the highest faith you have in the couple," he chuckled.
Ikumi grabbed the white-haired man's collar and glared at him, "If you do anything funny, I'm kicking your ass." He eyed her with a quizzical look as he slowly removed her shoe and held her leg. He placed the garter over her foot as he continued staring at her.
"Such a serious expression," he then proceeded to tickle her feet as she began to laugh. "Much better."
"Cut the shit, Jushiro and stop tickling me," she kicked his shoulder, as he lost his balance for a bit but righted himself. He placed his fingers on the garter once more as he slowly pushed it up to her thigh while he paused. She blushed a bit, ready to push her leg down, when he proceeded to lift it higher, causing the black-haired girl to turn red. His fingers accidentally brushed her middle as she bit her lip. He stared at her and placed her leg down, fixing her dress.
"Okay, these two will share a dance together," the announcer yelled, as Jushiro held out his hand as Ikumi reluctantly took it. They proceeded to dance as he looked at her while she glanced at his collar with an upset expression.
"Don't worry, I factor this will be a three-minute dance and you'll be free of me," he told her in a snide tone as he smirked.
"I should just slap that smile off your face, it's so irritating," she said through gritted teeth as she glared at him.
"Well go ahead, I'll be the second person in one night that you slapped," he jested causing her to try and move her hand up to his face as he grabbed it and proceeded to twirl her around. "Such an impulsive woman, are you always this angry and demanding?" he asked her as she gave him a smug grin.
"I can get much worse," she warned as he laughed.
"Poor Isshin," he quipped, angering the woman in his arms. "Is that why you don't wear underwear?" She angrily blushed and avoided his stare.
"I can't really wear any time of garments with this outfit," she said referencing to her skin-tight ensemble, "Was that what you were doing, checking, you pervert?" she finally looked up to glare at him.
"No, just showing the bride and groom my highest faith in the happy couple," he answered her as she stared at him with a frown. "Do I tell him or are you going to break the news to your son?" She was unaware of what he was asking until his features took on a serious note.
"I will," she whispered as he nodded while they continued to dance along to the music. She suddenly felt him stiffen as his eyes wearily looked at someone in the crowd. She glanced to see an older bearded man, staring at him as he waited patiently. Jushiro sighed as his whole expression became serious as he frowned. "Is that Genrai Jaegerjaquez?"
"For a woman who wants nothing to do with me, sure asks a lot of questions," he sternly smiled, still glancing at the old man. When he heard the woman in his arms sigh in defeat was when he answered her. "If you must know, yes. He was invited by Byakuya since he is a loyal client with the Kuchiki's. He also wanted to speak with me, along with Nel and Grimmjow."
"I doubt Grimmjow is going to like that."
He laughed at the woman's comment, "Giving advice to someone else about their son, aren't we being a hypocrite." She bit her tongue as she had no right to say anything, especially what she told him. When the song ended, he bowed to her, "Thank you for the dance, if you will excuse me."
Being nosy, since that's the kind of person she was, she followed them from a distance. She watched as the older man stared at Jushiro who bowed in respect to him and guided him to the table that had Nel and Grimmjow with other occupants. She stood near Shunsui, who gave her a brief hug while he drank from his cup, bidding her to sit down next to him. Who was she to pass up a seat especially if it was near the table she was interested in.
Jushiro watched Ikumi sit near Shunsui and he couldn't help but feel a bit aggravated at the woman's need to be so damn confusing. He thought she'd be happily glad to be away from his presence.
"Nel-chan, you already met Master Genrai," he spoke to his goddaughter, who rose to give the man a hug, kiss and bowed respectfully. The man showed no emotion, only looking at her with a serious look. Grimmjow watched the whole interaction with his girlfriend, then locked eyes with the old man.
"Grimmjow," his deep rough voice spoke as Grimmjow continued to stare at him, not saying a word. He looked at Jushiro who avoided his son's stare.
"I honestly don't know what to fucking call you," he chuckled as he downed the rest of his cup, while Genrai sat silently at the table. "How about old fool or better yet, asshole?"
The older man gripped his cane tightly, seeming aggravated with the insults, "Jushiro," he called.
"I warned you Master Genrai, I'm not here to play advocate. You wanted to speak plainly. just do it. You knew how your grandson was, do you blame him?" he explained to the older man, who nodded in understanding.
"I've been getting some troubled calls from the board members-"
"That I have already explained to them that we're in the process of dealing with the issue. Did you or did you not tell the members you were stepping down?"
"Yes!"
"Why do they feel it necessary to go behind my back to tell their grievances to you?"
"Jushiro they are just worried, and they feel you being personally connected to this issue is affecting your judgment."
Jushiro raised a brow quizzically, "Did you hear that Shunsui?"
"Yes I did, old friend. Master Genrai, no disrespect but I could have sworn your stock became higher, once the news broke of us joining dojos?"
"Yes, the board members are not looking at the current situation, but the future of the dojo and which direction it will take."
Jushiro stared at the older man as he looked to Shunsui, as the man nodded.
"Is the board worried or are you Master Genrai about who the successor of the two dojos will be?" The old man stayed silent as he gripped his cane, "Shunsui and I have always known that the successor of Oderschvank would be Neliel. I wasn't aware of anything changing, did you Shunsui?"
"Nope," the curly haired man stated lazily, eyeing his old Master.
"Are you planning on leaving Pantera, Grimmjow?" Jushiro asked his son while staring at the older man. Grimmjow was a little hesitant, surprised at being included in this conversation as he answered, plainly.
"No!"
"Your dojo has always been known to have a strong male heir, guiding its dojo. Having no son of your own, you had to rely on your daughter providing one. In the meantime, you picked a strong student to lead the dojo to a better future until an heir, was old enough to take over things. So with Shunsui and I denying that role as well as your grandson. That leaves you with no heir."
"Jushiro, I am highly aware of that without you reminding me,"
He hit the table and calmly leaned closer to the older man, "It seems I do have to remind you and all the board members. We can write the paperwork right now and unjoin our dojos, while you watch the Jaeqerjaquez dojo fade into oblivion while your stock plummets," the white-haired man expressed to the older man as his shoulders hung low. "That wouldn't be fair to Kiyoko though. She didn't want that for the dojo or your legacy. So I suggest you explain to the board members before I do that the legacy of Oderschvank and Jaegerjaquez lies with Neliel. If they have issues with rumors regarding my goddaughter, you can tell them to speak to me. I will make sure they understand that I'm not someone to cross."
"I will explain it to them again," he gruffly said and nodded. He was about to leave when he felt a small hand covering his large wrinkled oned.
"Master Genrai ... I understand your concerns and wanting to hold on to traditions. I want to let you know that I do care about what happens to these two dojos and I won't let the reputation tarnish, no... no matter what you hear," she smiled as she leaned in to give the old man another kiss. He looked at Nel and gave her a smile as he nodded. Rising up slowly as he bid everyone farewell and left.
"You didn't have to be so hard on him, Uncle," she softly said staring at the older man, who walked slowly. Jushiro looked at his goddaughter while he tapped his knuckles onto the table in thought. He rose up to walk amongst the crowd stopping his old master. It looked like he was speaking with much more kindness than before, he bowed to the man as the other man nodded as well. He walked back to the table rubbing his brow a bit as he sighed and leaned against his chair.
"What did you say?" Nel asked timidly as Jushiro looked at her with a slight smile.
"I told him to forgive me for being so rude. I should have conducted myself more civilized instead of condescendingly," Nel stood to give her Uncle a huge hug.
"I need to keep 'you' men in line before you kill each other," she mumbled, holding onto her Uncle from behind as she giggled.
"You couldn't get me to apologize to that man," Grimmjow added, having been silent this whole time, watching the whole conversation with his father and grandfather.
"I wasn't asking you," Nel told him, rising up from holding her Uncle to glance at her boyfriend. "I've never had a grandfather before, I'll call him Jiji Genrai."
"Great, you can have him," Grimmjow growled out.
"I wasn't asking for your permission either," she clarified with a stern look.
Grimmjow shook his head and rolled his eyes as he drank from his cup. He got up, "What makes you think he wants a granddaughter when he didn't want his own daughter," he mentioned, watching as his father glared at him. He shook his head and headed to the bar.
Grimmjow drank from his strong cup of bourbon with a shot of vodka as he felt a presence beside him, he looked to find Ikumi ordering a drink.
"Just Scotch," she sat beside him as she glanced at him, "What's wrong little boy blue?" She heard him growl, hearing his old nickname.
"Would you stop fucking calling me that."
"Would you stop acting like a fucking boy then," she shot back, as he eyed her and gave a grin.
"Where is your boy by the way?" he asked, watching her shake her head and drink from her cup.
"Don't worry about Kaoru, he's upset with his mommy at the moment," she told him as she rubbed the side of her head.
"Slapping someone would do that. Question is, why did you want to slap my father?" he looked at her as she avoided his stare.
"He can be a know it all prick sometimes," she stated as she swallowed her drink.
"A smart know it all prick, though," he watched her roll her eyes but she didn't disagree with his statement. "You don't like Kaoru hanging with him?"
Ikumi looked at Grimmjow surprised as he began to laugh, "Aren't you fucking observant."
"Also your face was pretty pissed," he confessed as he swirled his cup around, "Want my advice?"
"No!" she flat out said as he chuckled.
"Good, cause I'm gonna give it anyway," he said turning to her as she looked at him and waited patiently, "What's the harm in him hanging with Jushiro anyways? So what if he thinks of him as a father figure, a boy needs someone like that in his life."
"Really? You used to express something totally different when you were younger," she nudged him with her body.
"That was a confused boy talking," he got the bartenders attention, watching the contents of his drink being refilled into his cup. "It's funny."
"What is?"
"For the longest time, I wanted Jushiro to be my father, now that I have him in my life. I'm so pissed off at that old prick for keeping him away."
Ikumi thought about her son and the way she was keeping Jushiro away. Would he be just as upset with her?
"Want my advice?" she asked the blue-haired man.
"No!" he chuckled as she playfully pushed his head.
"Smart ass! I think you should forgive the old prick. You don't have to start buying him Christmas presents, just let him know that your not gonna bottle up this hate for him."
Grimmjow drank the rest of his cup, "I'll keep it in mind. Thanks for the advice, I Cum."
"Hey, Fuck you," she yelled. Grimmjow giving her a boyish grin, making his way to Nel as Ikumi watched him hug his girlfriend and turn her pouted face into a smile. She saw the green eyes glance at her and then turn away as she continued to drink from her cup.
Rukia and Renji, waved goodbye to their friends as they settled in their yacht until they arrived on land, where they would head to the airport. For now, they were going to spend hours resting. They watched as their friends waved them goodbye. Rukia could see the disappointed look in Renji's features.
"Toshiro said his manager really needed to see him," she rubbed his stomach as she held him from behind.
"I know, it's just... he would of let me know, especially today," he looked at his wife, with a worried look. "He didn't even text me."
"He probably didn't want to interrupt or distract you," she expressed as her husband nodded. Husband! She loved the sound of that as she began to giggle.
"What's so funny?"
"You're my husband now," she smiled up at him, as she gave him a kiss.
"I know sounds good," he whispered in her ear as he held her, "You know what else sounds good?"
"Mmmm," she moaned as he picked her up bridal style while kissing her neck. "What husband?" she giggled when he tickled her with the edge of his lips.
"Heading down to the bed and taking all this shit off while I'll show Mrs. Abarai all the creative shit I could do," he gave her a large grin as became absolutely red.
"M...My dress is not shit, Mr. Abarai," she swallowed when he leaned in closer.
"Well you better hurry and take it off before I become too impatient and rip it to shreds," she saw the lust in his eyes when they started heading down to the 'stateroom' of the yacht.
"You w... wouldn't," she whimpered as she was set down on the bed. When he made to reach for her dress, she yelped, "Okay, okay."
He watched her begin to undress and he did the same when the phone distracted him with the sound of an incoming text. He looked, noticing it was from his brother,
'Oi! Sorry for leaving you on your wedding without seeing you off. I really needed to leave and sort a few things with my manager that couldn't wait. Congratulations on making someone miserable and having to wake up to your ugly face every morning. =D'
"Little son of a bitch," he smirked as he placed the phone beside the bed.
"I knew he'd text you," she smiled, getting down to her white lingerie as he removed his pants. His clothes strewn on the floor while her dress was hung neatly by the closet. He stopped her in removing her lingerie, wanting to see her in that snow white apparel, just a little longer. Climbing onto the bed beside her to give her a passionate kiss when his phone beeped again. Rukia looked at Renji's aggravated face, he had forgotten to turn off his phone. She beckoned him to see who it was as he quickly checked his screen.
'Now that I'm getting the hang of sex, you can possibly last longer than I did. See if you can last way into the morning, bitch. =P'
Rukia heard her husband growl as he turned off his phone and slammed it on the bedside table.
"What did it say?" she asked him curiously while he laid close to her.
"Just some random asshole," he said through gritted teeth as he pulled her in for a bruising kiss. He was going to make sure that his wife was thoroughly pleased and the only rest they were going to receive was when they were on the damn plane.
Oh my God! You have no idea how difficult it was writing this chapter. Trying to make the perfect wedding for Rukia and Renji and trying to give you the image I had in my mind. I hope I was able to give you some sort of visual. I was planning on introducing Aizen as the friend of Orihime and Sora's parents for a while, its just funny that I introduced Aizen in my other story at the same time. Maybe I had Aizen on the brain and want to share my Aizen Love. I want to stress that I'm not making him out to be like Tsukishima at all. Yes, he's a bit of a manipulative asshole but he's never had to force anyone. Just his handsome face and the hypnotizing way he speaks would get any girl (I wouldn't blame them, Aizen is friggen' hot). He just has a little issue of getting bored.
Songs:
Staind 'Right Here' - As I stressed in my story its not your typical romance song. I've read that a lot of people take it as a song about having an unhealthy relationship and you just stay with them because you don't want to leave them. I guess you can take it that way but I didn't. lol! It's actually my wedding song. I took the lyrics as a positive because a relationship especially a marriage takes dedication. It's not always sunshine and candy canes, you're going to have bad days and yes we have arguments but we learned to never let it get to a point where it hurts the other person. A toxic relationship is bad (Ulquihime Sorry if that is your fetish lol).
Mika Nakashima 'Yuki No Hana- Snow Flower' - This is such a lovely song. I heard it once and just loved it and the lyrics just fit with Rukia's winter wedding. I liked the idea of having Byakuya dancing with his sister/daughter to his wedding song with Hisana. I just had to add Chappy in there, this is Rukia's day after all.
Chris Brown 'Forever' - Okay I needed something cute and wild for the wedding. Introducing Nel and Grimmjow's crazy side. I was a big fan of the Office and I loved the wedding scene between Jim and Pam. Call me a sucker for romance, but it was too adorable. Plus this song is fun to dance to.
Evanescence 'Good Enough' - I love Amy Lee's voice. I've always loved this song and as I was writing this chapter and thought of a song that Orihime would sing to him, this song popped into my head. The words are beautifully written and Amy's piano playing skills are just AHHHH I love it.
Please Review and tell me what you thought of Rukia and Renji's Big Day. Also, this is the end of the island arc. It was a pretty long arc especially with my absence but we got here. YAY!
Next chapter! The Kuchiki firm, along with Shuuhei's agency, put on their thinking caps on the best course of action on dealing with Tsukishima. (cough) What about this new Judge, Souskue Aizen, what will be his involvement? (evil grin)