I celebrated my son's B-day (July 15) that's right Ichigo's Bday and the return of Twinkies. LMAO! He wanted Five Nights at Freddy for his birthday even though he's scared of them. Got to love the logic of children. Anyways ... This chapter is still keeping in line with the aftermath of Isshin's tragic story. I decided to have another Isshin and Orihime heart to heart, I enjoyed writing them together when they were on the island. There was not enough of that in the manga, I have a theory that if we had Isshin interacting with Orihime we would have known before 686, who Ichigo was going to be with like if it wasn't obvious enough. It just would have been a nail in the coffin.
I wanted to let my readers also know that I started a Pateron page (had to misspell it) on audio short stories I've created. I've always been told whenever I read to my little sister or to my children that I should really do voices. I never proceeded with it, cause I was a big scaredy-cat, but the stories were still stuck in my head. So now I'm sharing them just like I'm sharing at Fanfiction. They are not stories I've written in fanfiction, because for obvious reasons (I wish I could sound like Ichigo or Orihime) LOL. Please look at the website and tell me what you think. If you choose to support me financially that's great, if not that's okay too = ). It's something I've always wanted to do and just needed encouragement from people other than my friends and family.
Pateron Account is = ewedcweeaboo
Youtube = ewe dc weeaboo
OMG! I seriously grow nervous when I post a new chapter on fanfiction, how do you think I'm going to feel about sharing my voice to you lovely people. Anywayz Enjoy this chapter! thank you for listening. Love you guys!
x
Orihime laid on the bed while she glanced at the ceiling, feeling Ichigo's warmth beside her while they squeezed in his old bed. They decided to stay the night while her brother went back home to Retsu. She couldn't sleep, and she was hesitant to move so she wouldn't wake up her fiancee. Ichigo had just fallen asleep, and his prone body snuggled close while his arm loosely laid on her stomach. She very slowly moved out of his grip as he frowned. She softly rubbed his cheek and gave him a soft kiss on his head, causing his features to loosen his scowl. Next, she had to make sure that she didn't step on Karin and Yuzu, as she carefully walked over them. They opted to have a sleepover with their brother as they placed their sleeping bags and comforters on his floor. He never complained as they gathered more pillows and blankets. The siblings didn't have to convey to each other that, 'tonight, they didn't want to be apart.' Orihime at first felt like someone who was intruding, but as Ichigo held her close and the Kurosaki twins kissed her goodnight, she felt like her presence was needed.
She opened the door and gradually came downstairs to find that she wasn't the only one who couldn't sleep. She found Isshin sitting by the table, looking fondly at his wife's mural when he heard her presence, he looked up to smile.
"Orihime-chan," he quickly whipped his face away as he lovingly looked at her. "What has you up? My perverted son isn't bothering you, is he?"
Orihime blushed as she sat across from her future father-in-law, "No, Papa-san! I couldn't sleep. I came down here so I wouldn't bother Ichigo. It was so difficult for him to close his eyes. I would hate for my restlessness to be the cause of him waking up. Can't sleep, either?"
"Talking about the past has brought a lot of memories to the forefront of my mind. I hadn't forgotten them; they were always there. It doesn't help to see the effect in telling the truth had on my children. I knew this day would come, I dreaded it, but it had to be done," he sighed as he drank a cup of tea, pointing at his cup. "Want a cup of chamomile tea? It helps with sleep?"
Orihime nodded, "Sure!" she went to get up, but the older man shook his head.
"Don't worry. I'll get it. It's better to do something to keep my mind off things."
"Can I still join you?"
"Of course, who wouldn't want a pretty girl like you for company," he grabbed his cup as they both headed to the kitchen. She leaned against the kitchen counter as he gathered some water. When he was finished placing the tea kettle over the stove, he leaned beside her.
"Masaki was really big on believing that there was a hidden string that connected and guided our fates. That whatever happens, was meant to be."
"What did you believe?" Orihime hesitantly asked.
"Being born into a life of assassins, you tend to view the world in a different light. Especially after her death, I told any deity who was listening that they could go fuck themselves." He glanced at Orihime, who nervously smiled and immediately apologized. "Sorry!"
"It's okay! Both my brother's see the world sort of in that aspect and who could blame them with the things that they've seen or been through."
"But you see it differently," it wasn't a question but a statement as he glanced at the girl who nodded in agreement.
"Yes! I tried to view it through their eyes and understand it from their point of view. It's difficult, and I think sometimes they worry that I can be too naivete and trusting."
"You should remain who you are. Masaki was a rare soul, and I wouldn't change anything about her. Yuzu. Bless her heart, even with not having her mother by her side, reminds me of her every day. Karin has some of her, but poor girl, I see the rest of myself in her. Ichigo-" he paused, sighing for a bit before he could speak, "The light that shined through his eyes when he was younger showed his mother but disappeared when she left this world. It recently returned again." It was then that Isshin looked to Orihime, who glanced at him for an answer.
The tea kettle's steam interrupted them both. Isshin haphazardly burned himself with the hot kettle. He placed the injured finger in his mouth while he poured water into the cups and placed teabags and sugar. Orihime couldn't help but laugh as his silly features returned ashamed that he hurt himself, making something so benign as making hot tea.
She helped place the cups onto saucers as they headed to the couch instead of the table. Orihime settled her cup onto the coffee table along with his while she leaned back.
"What did you mean, Papa-san, about it, recently returning?"
"It's obvious to anyone who sees that he's completely devoted to you. It's why now I look back at my life and think that things couldn't be merrily coincidence. I didn't want to believe it."
"My presence in Ichigo's life has caused you to question what you used to believe? How?" she frowned and stared at her future, father-in-law with concern.
"It wasn't only the effect you had on Ichigo, but my daughter's as well. I mentioned this to Sora during the time we left the police station after the incident with Tsukshima," he saw her tense up, but she nodded for him to continue. "I explained that you remind me of her in so many ways. It couldn't be a coincidence that you came into our lives."
"I... I just befriended your daughters because the other children treated them like they were cursed. I knew how that felt, and I couldn't bare to see anyone treated like that."
"Compassionate, Sweet, Selfless, and Forgiving to loved ones and even those who treated you poorly. It's why I fell in love with Masaki. It wasn't a coincidence that I first saw her on that train so many years ago. It also wasn't a coincidence that she was there to save that little girl from being further abused and had a chance to escape. Our time together was short, but she left a lasting impression on me that continues to show in my children. The more that I think about it, I was wrong in some ways. I thought I could live my life, knowing the atrocities that my clan continued to do in my absence. The universe gave me an amazing wife and family, but I ignored the plague that was festering in this world. It was the cost of her life that I finally saw the errors of my ways."
"How can you blame yourself, Papa-san? You are nothing like that," she began to cry as she leaned her head against his shoulder.
"Not anymore but I can't continue thinking that some of it was my fault. The things that they used to do could cause the strongest man to cringe in horror. I stood idly by and did nothing. They continued to kill and gain influence in the political system while I had my family. Masaki was much stronger than me, she saw someone in need, and she lunged forward indiscriminately. Did you know the little girl grew up to be a police officer? She visits me from time to time, to see how I'm doing and hasn't mentioned anything to my children out of respect for me. For a long time, she grew up thinking her life didn't matter; she was an orphaned child who made the mistake of following someone who offered food when she was starving. I told her what I felt Masaki would want her to hear, that she was important and not let my wife's death be in vain. So she studied and dedicated her life, helping put other bad men away. I never told her about my involvement in the death of the Shiba clan, and she continues to work on Masaki's cold case, telling me she continues to search for people who don't exist anymore. I couldn't squash that fire, and she's helped too many people with it."
"I feel the same way in regards to my situation. Sora bringing me to Karakura, falling in love with a man who meant everything to my brother when he needed it the most, and being in that exact moment with Tsukishima," she held him tighter, "If I never met him, would anyone have stood against him while he continued to harm others?"
"It's why you're strong. Don't believe those who tell you that you caring and sympathizing with others is a sign of weakness. It is not. My mother taught me that," he kissed her auburn-haired head as he felt her nod her head, agreeing with him. "Masaki loved the Tanabata tale. She would always connect people to other fictional characters in her life, but that story always stuck with her. She said I was the Magpies in that story." Isshin laughed as he whipped away a stray tear. "I was the bridge that connected Ryuken and Kanae. In her version, she was the rain, and now that she had the Magpies to keep her company, she didn't have to ruin the lovers' chances of meeting on that day."
"It's a beautiful tale, probably why Sora loved the name so much. He'd tell me the Tanabata tale every night after we wrote and hanged our wishes on the Wish Tree. In his version, he would have Hikiboshi trick the rain goddess by meeting at the river on July 6th instead. By the time July 7th came, the dark clouds dissipated and the lovers would meet. I knew he changed it for my sake but knowing the truth now, doesn't taint his version, only makes it more special," she giggled as Isshin smiled.
They both noticed the steam from their cups were gone, and the temperature of their drinks became warmer. Orihime felt the warm effects of the drink as she sighed and lifted her legs up on the couch, making herself more comfortable still leaning on Isshin. He felt the girl nod off as her breathing pace became slower. After a while, he stood up, being careful not to wake her as he laid her more on the couch. He took the cups to the kitchen to wash when he came back to Orihime with a blanket and pillow.
"I don't believe it was a coincidence that Sora named you Orihime either," He confided in a whisper, rubbing the girl's head lovingly, watching her brows knit together.
"That elephant will fit, Ichigo," she murmured under her breath.
Isshin couldn't help but chuckle, not sure what she was dreaming about but he was sure it was unique just like her.
After situating her more comfortably, he sat on the recliner beside her, glancing at her sleeping form as he felt the effects of the tea. He lied to the girl when he explained he wasn't the same person. The situation at the police station proved that when he saw her running desperately into his arms and felt her fear. He was going to hurt the person who caused it. Ulquiorra had beaten him in delivering the first blow, while his son followed up with injuring the man further. That beast that was deep inside him was aching to be released. He knew that if things had gone any further, he would have killed the man. Unfortunately, for his sake, Orihime was able to rescue herself from his clutches. He sighed, glancing now at his wife's mural on the wall. His eyelids grew heavier as he nodded off to sleep.
x
Ichigo's hand reached out to find the space beside him empty and cold. He opened his eyes to find Orihime gone. He looked at the time to find it was six am, the sun's rays barely showing through the darkened skies. He panicked, looking around, finding his sister's still asleep on his old bedroom floor. He wondered if she was in the bathroom, he slowly got up and made his way carefully to his door.
He found the bathroom empty and then headed downstairs. He glanced around to find his father asleep and his fiancee sleeping a foot away on the couch. He walked closer to his father, seeing the bag's under his eyes but saw that his features were at peace. Then looked at his fiancee to find her blissfully comfortable, scrunching the pillow in a hug. He smiled as he sat on the floor beside her. 'She probably couldn't sleep and felt that my father needed her presence,' he mused. As he looked at Orihime sleeping, he wondered if he would go to such lengths if he ever lost her as his father did. Truthfully, he didn't want to know the answer.
"Ichigo?" he heard his father as he turned to find the older man looking around, noticing where he was, "Oh, I must have dozed off." Ichigo only nodded as he turned to stare at the auburn-haired girl on the couch. When Isshin stood up to enter the back where his office was, he found that his son had followed him. Ichigo leaned against the door frame as he silently looked at his father.
"I ... I don't hate you, I'm just fucking hurt that you didn't tell me all of this. I deserved your honesty, Dammnit!" he said through clench teeth, trying not to yell so he wouldn't wake the others. He watched his father nod as he looked at his schedule of the patients that he was going to see in two hours.
"You're right, and I apologize. I didn't feel you were ready to handle it before."
"You were wrong," he stepped closer, removing his crossed arms to his sides, gripping his fists tightly together.
"I know, and again I'm sorry," his father looked genuinely concerned, it was disconcerting seeing him like this, gone was the funny fool. When he saw his father return to his work, he sighed, turning to leave. He paused to turn his head and say one last thing, "You're not planning on being this serious asshole permanently, are you?"
Isshin looked at his son with a wide-eyed expression before he gave him a smug grin. "I couldn't do that to Yuzu, and I wouldn't want to claim your title," he gave a mocked tone as his son smiled.
"Good, because I would have had to beat your ass," he walked out before his father could say anything else but not before he heard his father give a relieved sigh.
x
Ichigo returned to Orihime and found her awake; she sat Indian style on the couch as she hugged her pillow, only looking up when she heard him approach. She gave a hesitant smile as he sat beside her, leaning in to kiss her lips. "Morning, Beautiful!"
She smiled at his words, feeling his hand touching the side of her face.
"Morning, Handsome!" she kissed him back and leaned her forehead to his.
"I freaked out when I saw you weren't there."
"I couldn't sleep, and leaving your father alone when he desperately needed company just felt wrong. I'm sorry." She rubbed the back of his head as he sighed.
"Don't apologize," he kissed her, only this time he lingered while he licked her bottom lip. "I just want you all to myself, and I get cranky when I don't get my Hime fix."
She giggled when she felt herself being pushed back as he leaned over her. "Ichigo -mmm," she felt his fingers spider their way to her pajama bottoms and slip his fingers inside of her panties. "W..What are you ..mmm" she felt his fingers brush her sex.
"Yeah, Ichigo. What are you doing?" He heard the voice of his sister as he halted his movements to look up to find his sister, standing there with a smug grin. Yuzu hurridly walked to the kitchen with an embarrassed expression, "I'mgoingtomakebreakfast," she stated so fast like it was one word. Karin still stood there staring at him as he narrowed his eyes at her.
"Don't you have to be somewhere?"
"Nope. Morning Orihime-nii," she giggled.
"M...Morning Karin-nii, M...Morning Yuzu-nii!" Ichigo saw his fiancee's red cheeks as she timidly said hello. He wanted to bring her up to his old room and lock the door.
"M...Morning Hime-nii," Yuzu stuttered from the kitchen.
Ichigo removed his fingers and got up from the couch as he helped Orihime up. She avoided Karin's gaze as she quickly picked up the blankets and pillows while heading upstairs, "I'mgoingtoputtheseaway."
Both siblings stared at each other and heard the auburn-haired girl run up the stairs. They listened to a loud thump and her voicing through her embarrassment, "I'm okay."
Karin couldn't help but laugh, but then her smile was gone as if she remembered why her brother was visiting in the first place. He could see her begin to cry as he walked up to her.
"I'm fine," she tried to push him off but then relented later as she held him while he rubbed her back.
Ichigo could see his other sister looking at them from the kitchen as Ichigo beckoned for her to come. Yuzu ran up to hug her brother and sister, her crying sounding louder than Karins.
They didn't say much as he soothed both their backs in comfort. They expressed all they needed to say yesterday. It was going to take some time to process everything. He pulled back as they both began to whip the rest of their tears as he kissed both their heads.
"We'll be fine, okay," he looked at both of them with a genuine smile, and both their faces lite up and nodded their heads. Hugging their brother one last time, before Yuzu went back to the kitchen as Karin headed to the couch to turn on the television.
Orihime came down when she felt they were ready, feeling it was not her place to interrupt their sibling bond. She proceeded to head towards the kitchen to help Yuzu with breakfast. They all ate and noticed the empty seat that belonged to Isshin. Ichigo explained that he needed some space and told them not to worry. The twins left for school while Ichigo dropped Orihime off to college as he headed to the hospital.
He knew he would see his fiancee later. It was challenging to be away from her, especially with finding out the truth of his mother. He just wanted to spend all day in bed with her. He needed to stop, or he'd have a tough time explaining to the staff, why he had a raging hardon. He breathed in and out before he exited his vehicle.
He changed into his scrubs and was about to see his patients when he noticed Retsu attempted to gain his attention by waving. He saw that she wasn't alone, Sousuke Aizen was among the group of doctors and other dressed suits, possibly donors. One, in particular, caught his eye, someone familiar yet couldn't place the name. He had dark hair with blue eyes that were covered with expensive frames. As he walked closer to the group, he didn't like how this dark-haired man eyed him.
"Kurosaki, I believe you already met Sousuke Aizen already. One of our leading hospital donors besides Kuchiki," she laughed, Unohana seemed so relaxed dealing with medical politics while he wanted the floor to swallow him whole. All he could do was give them the satisfaction of smiling and greeting them with a nod or a handshake.
"You flatter me, Dr. Unohana. I don't believe anyone can outdo Kuchiki in donations. How did you ever manage that feat?" Ichigo watched as Aizen glanced at the beautiful doctor who nervously laughed.
"I just happen to be engaged to his partner," she gave a clever wink as the others in the group chuckled.
"Dr. Unohana, I think it has more to do with not being able to say no to you. I know I have that issue," a portly gentleman laughed, causing the black-haired girl to redden.
"Please! I much rather believe your interest in writing a check has more to do with the kindest of your hearts."
"Of course!" most of the men laughed as Retsu shook her head and smiled. She turned to Ichigo, who looked like he could care less what this group did with their checkbooks.
"Kurosaki, I wanted you to meet. Dr. Uryu Ishida. He is replacing our former Director, Dr. Jun Miura, whom you remembered retired a few months ago."
The young gentlemen looked to be his age, as Ichigo tried to place the familiar name of the man, but he was too busy pissed off at being scrutinized by this man's suspicious glare.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Kurosaki. I've heard nothing but great things about you from Retsu. I also understand that your months away from receiving your doctorate?"
Ichigo nodded, taking the man's hand suspiciously before he shook it.
"Thanks and yes two months to be exact," Ichigo grinned at his accomplishment, but his excitement was short lived when the man nodded, and his expression seemed bored.
"Karakura is blessed to receive two men with such medical accomplishments at such a young age. How old were you Dr. Ishida when you received your doctorate?" Aizen asked as the spectacle-wearing man continued to eye the orange-haired man before he answered.
"Twenty-one!"
"That makes me feel so old. You recently turned twenty-five in November, correct?"
Uryu nodded, sighing his discomfort at having to talk about himself. Ichigo's eyes widen for a fraction at the younger man's age.
"Kurosaki is the same age too," Retsu smiled, grabbing the younger man's arm. "His fiancee and I are planning his twenty-six birthday this summer."
Ichigo knew Retsu was trying to lighten the situation, but the smug grin on the spectacle-wearing man-caused Ichigo to grit his teeth as he smiled.
"Is it that intern that works under you, Dr. Unohana?" Uryu asked as Retsu smiled.
Ichigo didn't like how the man asked about Orihime while he stood right there. He also didn't like how some of the other men in the group coughed and whispered, 'the beauty that sang at Kuchiki wedding?' or 'lucky bastard!' Aizen seemed to be the only one who was staring at Ichigo and remained silent. His stare made him uncomfortable, and he wasn't sure why.
"Well, I'm sorry to leave you, but I need to check on some of my patients," Ichigo said, but was interrupted.
"Of course! As the new Director, I'm meeting with all the doctors and staff at this hospital. If you could meet with me when you are done. I would very much like to speak to you privately."
Ichigo bit the side of his cheek and nodded before he exited. He didn't care if it seemed rude he didn't say his farewells to the others in the group.
He made his rounds. Once he was satisfied with his patient's state of health, he elected to see the Director. He met with the administrative staff to ask if he was available, after waiting ten minutes, he was asked to enter the man's office.
The office was in the process of changes, and no longer having the frames of Director Miura's family hanging on the wall. Instead, he hung an abundance of diplomas from mental health to General Surgeon. The man in question was standing by a filing cabinet, taking out a file as he sat at his desk. He didn't seem to acknowledge his presence when he told him to have a seat. The office was neatly set-up; the man seemed to want everything perfectly placed. Even his pencils were evenly sharpened. There were no portraits set up, nothing situated on his desk. Ichigo gave him the benefit of the doubt, believing it was due to him just arriving. He sat for a while, glancing at the file at his desk. Ichigo began to feel irritated when the man remained quiet for a while. It was when Ichigo moved forward in his seat to say something was when the Director decided to speak.
"At first, I was reluctant to believe Retsu's praises for you, but reading your file has me questioning my first assumptions that were rather negative."
Ichigo frowned at that comment and decided to let the man continue. He closed the file and looked up to finally stare at him.
"Although small, you tend to have a bit of an anger issue?"
"It's not an issue; certain doctors, specifically prideful ones, tend to take my age as something to overlook. I'm not going to stay quiet when my opinion can make a difference in a patient's health. I dislike my comments being blatantly snubbed away because a doctor wants to act like a superior asshole."
Uryu raised his eyebrow and nodded his head. "What was the reason for Dr. Sunkai receiving threats from you?"
Ichigo couldn't help but laugh, "You mean Yu Sunkai that perverted prick. I told him to stop harassing a volunteer at the time."
"The same volunteer who's now your fiancee turned Retsu's current intern?"
"Does it make a difference who it was?"
"No!"
Ichigo scowled as he sat back in his chair. "You were also arrested?"
"A misunderstanding that was remedied due to a false claim. Is there something you want to ask me?" he noticed that his voice rose an octave higher, as the other man's brows knitted in irritation.
"As a matter of fact, there is. Everyone seems to gravitate more to the pros instead of the cons. I don't care if your well established here, I will not tolerate an out of control Doctor. My apologies a resident."
He heard the condescending tone in the Director's voice, and he lost it.
"Fuck you."
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me you arrogant piece of shit. I don't need to prove myself to you. If you don't want me here, then say it." he growled, leaning closer to the man who held his file.
"The board feels it's necessary to keep you here, ignoring my protests. Also, my father has warned me about how stubborn your father could be. I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree."
"Your father?"
"Yes, Ryuken Ishida and my mother Kanae were friends a long time ago with your father. My father choose to move to Tokyo, where I knew Retsu. I'm here on my father's behalf, to keep an eye on things."
Ichigo finally put the names together, remembering his father's past as he looked at the man behind the desk. "You're that little fucker, who called me stupid."
"I didn't call you stupid. I said you were foolish. You were upset at losing to a mediocre level. Especially where you weren't efficient in your strategy."
"I'm used to having Cloud at level 80, not at the piece of shit level you had him in."
"Yet, I didn't have an issue at being at level 40. You lacked skill, Kurosaki," he chuckled, as Ichigo scowled and then laughed at realizing he'd been arguing about a video game.
"Are we done yet?" Ichigo impatiently asked.
"Yes! Good seeing you again, Kurosaki," he stretched out his hand to shake his. While Ichigo frowned and then accepted the handshake. He was about to leave when Uryu's grip didn't let go.
"I almost forgot. I'm pretty sure its just rumors, but if you could fraternize with Retsu's intern when you are off hospital property. I would greatly appreciate it."
Orihime had refrained from kissing at the hospital after the pictures that surfaced at the police station, much to his disappointment. He looked at Uryu and stared for a moment. He didn't have to know about his fiancee's paranoia.
"I'll try," he gave a smug grin when he saw the irritated features of the young Director.
x
"Why are we even meeting?" Sora sneered glancing at the paperwork in front of him, while he waited with Byakuya. They were waiting on Tsukishima. He had recently called them to meet wishing they could settle this without it reaching court. When he was denied, he opted to meet with his hired lawyer instead.
"Tsukishima has always been a presumptuous man. Men like that believe they have no weakness, and that inevitably be their downfall."
At that, Tsukishima entered the room with a smile to Sora specifically who remained calm, under the scrutiny. Another gentleman came behind him, hair pink with matching pink frames. He wore a fuschia colored blouse under his black tailored suit. Szayelaporro Granz, known for his fashion and theatrical performances in court, was also meticulous and resourceful.
"Mmm Inoue and Kuchiki. It's a great honor. I'm surprised we haven't clashed at some point. Kuchiki, your even more handsome in person."
"Granz, I appreciate the sentiment, but I didn't come here for your flattery. Your client wants to speak concerning terms, that I'm afraid is non-negotiable. We are bringing this to court." Byakuya spoke clearly and calmly, while Szayelporro looked at Byakuya in adoration and blushed.
"Of course, we're not here to discuss settling out of court, especially since that train has come and gone. It's why I'm here," he smiled.
"So, what is this regarding?" Sora asked.
"Well, it'd be pointless to ask for probation or a light sentence when you're so gun-ho on stringing my client's balls, literally. So instead, I wanted to address a warning."
"A warning?" Sora eyed the pink-haired man critically.
The colorful personality of the man disappeared as he glanced across the table in all seriousness, "I'm warning you that since you insist on not pulling your punches, respect that I will not either. As a brother myself, I can't understand having someone subject their sibling to the crosshairs of a man such as myself. I mean don't take it personally, I'm only doing my job. but I guarantee you that when that pretty adorable girl takes that stand." He closed his eyes and breathed in and exhaled as he opened them to give a cruel smile. "I'll make sure the Lil' bitch understands that playing with sharks is terrible for your health, in this case, mental health." He laughed as Tsukishima grin hardly reached his ear as he silently studied Sora's reaction.
Sora mouth remained firmly shut as his fingers impatiently tapped on the table.
"Fun fact: a shark will only eat you if you're wet," Granz shamelessly felt the need to inform the room, as if he hadn't threatened the well-being of the man's sister across from him.
"I guess in Orihime's case, especially that video, she was obnoxiously wet and didn't mind getting eaten," Tsukishima finally voiced, as Granz giggled and covered his mouth containing his laughter in a mock apology.
"Reverting to crude shots, Tsukishima. I thought you'd come to know that doesn't work on me, in several of the cases might I add, you've lost."
Before Tsukishima could voice anything, Granz held out his hand. "Well, he has me now. Speaking of video! Would you be so kind as to let us have that evidence? I'm only nicely asking because I would hate to ask a judge to have you hand it over forcefully," he gave a cheeky grin.
"You can't ask for something that never existed. I also want to specify that this so-called video you claim that we have, received payment for its disappearance. I also might add that this "video" existed illegally?"
"Tsukishima is willing to hand over his portion of the money, in exchange for a minute of footage we choose."
"You're out of your damn-" Sora began to reiterate before Byakuya held his hand out.
"We will accept the terms, only if this stays within the courtroom if anything is publically shared. I will not hesitate to seek legal action, that will not only damage Tsukishima but you as well Granz."
"Of course not, I figured you were a smart man. I had written my terms," he handed a sheet to him and another copy to Sora. The contract stated which exact frames they needed explicitly and also the terms for court use only.
"I'll give you a day to speak it over with the plaintiffs involved, and there are certain signatures involved that are necessary, good-luck in getting that hotheaded fiancee to sign. I hear he's devilishly handsome and stubborn. It was a pleasure, gentlemen! You can have the papers emailed to the card that's attached, once you have them signed and notarized. I'm looking forward to seeing you in court."
He smiled at both men before he left with Tsukishima, who remained silent and bowed before following his lawyer out the door.
Once the door closed, Sora turned to his partner to ask him a question when Byakuya beat him in answering instead.
"I have no doubt Granz would have found a judge to approve of extracting the video from us and probably the copies as well. At least this way, we are only obligated to hand over a minute of film."
"A lot can happen in a minute," he growled out.
"Would you have them acquire 12 hours of footage of your sister?"
Sora sighed and understood the circumstances. He knew Tsukishima was going to play dirty, especially when his lively hood and freedom were being threatened. Even though it was a small amount of footage, he didn't want to know what these bastards had in mind.
"No!"
"At least the footage will remain as evidence in court. We will both go through these documents with a fine comb before having Ichigo and Orihime sign them. If there is anything that doesn't look remotely right, we'll make changes to it."
Byakuya and Sora gathered their things from the table, placing some of the items in their briefcases.
"Now getting Ichigo to sign the document is going to be a big pain in the ass. Hell, I wouldn't even want to sign it."
"It won't be a problem if you have Orihime with you."
Sora watched his partner give a concerned nod before holding the door for him. He would have to talk to them both, together.
x
Orihime had been nervous when she entered the hospital after classes to start her day. She had been notified that she needed to see the new Director of the hospital. She had been told that he was in the process of speaking with everyone; it still didn't ease her anxiety. She still hadn't seen Ichigo while she waited for the Director to call her in.
She entered expecting an older gentleman, only to be surprised to find a young man looking at the file on his desk. She didn't move until he motioned for her to have a seat, still glancing down at his desk.
"Inoue, Th-," he looked up to pause for a moment before he nervously cleared his throat. Orihime looked on in concern as he fixed his collar and looked a bit uncomfortable. "Thank you for coming. My name is Uryu Ishida, the new Director."
"Of course, Ishida-san," she bowed before she sat comfortably in front of him. She couldn't help but stare at him, noticing the name Isshin had mentioned in his story. When she noticed he was looking at her oddly was when she nervously smiled. "I'm sorry. I'm just a little nervous," she smiled. It wasn't a complete lie; she just didn't want to mention why she had been staring intently at him. She cleared her mind of Isshin's past as she sighed.
"Nothing, to be nervous about, I'm speaking with most of the staff and introducing myself. There's nothing for you to worry about, especially with all the high remarks you've received from those you work with."
"I was studying to be a baker," she giggled before she sat up straight to continue, "My friends sort of pushed me into volunteering, and I've enjoyed every moment of it. The children are the real reason why I'm so devoted to what I do. I mean it doesn't seem like work when you're having fun. I mean- that didn't sound right, it sounds like I'm just goofing off. What I'm trying to say is that spending time with those children, and providing them with services, it doesn't feel like your there to just work."
Uryu finally nodded after staring at the girl for a while. It wasn't like him to stare at a woman. She was only too beautiful to ignore.
"I understand what you mean, and it's the reason why we get into this line of work. Of course, at times it can get challenging, but its the reason why we took the job of helping others. If not, then you have to wonder why someone would choose this field in the first place." He watched her nodding her head in agreement as he looked at the file and tapped the pen against the desk. He wasn't sure if he could speak to her regarding the other issue, he just finished speaking to her fiancee about. She seemed like a girl who would be mortified at being told about a rumor. He mostly believed it was Ichigo's reckless behavior that caused her to ignore simple hospital rules. He closed the file and smiled. "That will be all, Inoue. I don't believe I'm going to have any issues with you," he leaned forward to shake her hand. She stood up to receive his hand and bowed appreciatively.
"Thank you so much, Ishida-san. You can count on me, and I'll try not to disappoint and do my best."
"Of course, Inoue," he told her as she smiled and turned to exit. Uryu looked at the closed door and exhaled loudly, "Of course a fool like Kurosaki would get someone like her," he chuckled to himself as he put away the young girl's file.
x
Orihime breathed a sigh of relief as she left the young Directors office. He was polite and nice, and she wasn't sure why Ichigo was so upset to be friends with him when he was younger. Before she could dwell on it, she heard her name being called.
"Hime-nii!"
She turned to find her future sister-in-law, heading in her direction.
"Yuzu-nii! I'm sorry I didn't meet you in front. I had to speak to the director."
"It's okay, Retsu said she still needed to speak with donors before she can speak to me about interning here."
"Are you sure this is something you want to do?"
"Well, when I volunteered last summer at an animal shelter, I was so dead set on being a veterinarian. I just want to shadow Retsu and work with you for a while and see if there's another option."
"That's great, Yuzu. What does Papa-san think?"
"He's happy with whatever I choose but between you and me. I think he's leaning towards me being a Pediatrician. He keeps putting random articles in the paper about rapid animal bites every morning. 'Hey, Yuzu! a dog bit off his owner's finger, a finger!'" the blonde mocked her father's frantic yelling, then began to laugh hysterically with the other girl.
"He just cares about you, Yuzu-nii," Orihime stated as the younger girl nodded and looked a bit disheartened, "What's wrong?"
"It's just that, I don't want to disappoint him if I choose to be a veterinarian instead," she pouted looking down. Orihime put her hand on the girl's shoulder.
"Oh, don't worry about that. Like you told me before he's happy with whatever you choose. If you decided that being a pediatrician is not something you want to do, he'd understand."
Yuzu looked at the older girl and nodded, wondering why she ever considered her father ever being disappointed in the first place.
"Hello, Inoue-san. Good Afternoon!"
Both girls turned to find the Supreme Court Judge, Aizen Sousuke staring at them.
"Good Afternoon, Aizen-sama," she bowed with Yuzu who bowed respectfully.
"I was on my way out and saw you, but I thought it would be rude to leave without saying hello, and you must be one of Isshin Kurosaki's daughters?" he addressed the blonde who looked surprised.
"Y...Yes, Aizen-sama. Good Morning. I mean Good Afternoon. How do you know me?" she nervously smiled at her mistake.
"I saw you dancing at the wedding with your father. Your father never stops bragging about his children, especially his 'lovely daughters."
"That sounds like him," she laughed.
Orihime made sure that they weren't alone, knowing that Sora warned her about not being alone with this man. She looked around nervously, seeing if Retsu was around so she could discreetly leave without looking too suspicious. Sousuke seemed to pick up on the auburn-haired girl's nervousness as he then addressed her.
"If you're uncomfortable with my presence, I fully understand. It's the reason why I didn't want to address how I knew you in the first place. Your parents, as I mentioned, was my past. It left a mark that I hate to admit would never go away. I understand if Sora and Ichigo are a bit suspicious of me, being who I was associated with. I won't speak ill of the dead, Miku would always remain the sweet girl I once knew. Noboru, on the other hand," he avoided Orihime's stare as he bit the inside of his mouth before he tilted his head to the side. "He was a friend, and I stress the word was because I don't know that man anymore. I'm sorry that I remind you of a life you never want to associate with. I don't blame you, it's what I'm doing," he laughed, "Well, ladies. It was great meeting you. Enjoy the rest of your day."
He made to leave when Orihime chewed on her bottom lip and ran up to the older man, tugging on his expensive jacket.
"Oh, I'm sorry Aizen-sama," she said, noticing she tugged a bit too hard. He turned around to smile and shook his head.
"No need," he fixed his jacket and waited for her to speak.
"Thank you for being so understanding. You are correct in your assumptions, and it's not right to lump you with those that have wronged me, because you're guilty by association. I don't know the harm my parents had caused but understand that as their daughter, I apologize. I'm not like them."
She watched the man looked down at her, as his smile grew. "NO, you're not like them."
Sousuke glanced at the girl who smiled with relief as she bowed. He bowed and left to leave the hospital, waving to Yuzu who timidly waved back.
The girls finally found Retsu as she apologized for being so tardy. While Orihime worked with the children, Yuzu stepped into Retsu's office to set up days and times that the young girl was available.
While Orihime with some of the children's hand and eye coordination, she couldn't help but dwell on the man whom her mother had first loved. He seemed sincere in explaining her parents' failings. She knew her parents weren't good people, especially with how Sora described them. She also knew that Sora said there were moments of happiness too. It was hard to distinguish who was telling the truth, or maybe life wasn't always black and white. Her father had been downright horrible to her, but the look in his eyes, almost desperate, and then the unmistakable hate he had for her. Something was missing, something she didn't understand. Something she may never come to know. For now, she'll be more cautious and discuss this with Ichigo and Sora when she gets the chance.
x
Sousuke Aizen eyes were closed as the limo slowly stopped at its destination. He hadn't stirred or opened his eyes until his driver opened the door for his exit. He smiled courteously to his driver, prompting him to take the rest of the day off and stressing that he would still receive his full hourly pay. After the man thanked him repeatedly, Sousuke left to enter his lush office on the 30th floor.
"Welcome back, Aizen-sama," his newest addition of assistants he had on hand. Meninas McAllon, was smart as she was exceedingly beautiful. Her green eyes looked timidly at her notes as she nervously brushed away her long pink hair from her face. "You have several calls from Judge Hentoi regarding your lunch date for tomorrow, I took most of the case files you were finished with, and several documents that needed your signature before I ran them down to the Diet, are on your desk."
She talked as she followed him into the office while he placed his jacket on the coat hanger.
"Thank you again for your prompt diligence in removing the case files. I hope it wasn't much trouble?" Meninas simply smiled and blushed at him before she spoke.
"It was no trouble, Aizen-sama! It's the reason why I was hired."
He nodded as she looked away to glance down at her toes.
"Tell Judge Hentoi that I promise to speak to him tomorrow morning. After you speak to him, I need you to return to clarify something for me."
She didn't waste time as she bowed and left his office. He could hear her frustrated voice on the phone with Judge Hentoi. The man wasn't a patient individual. He probably was giving his assistant a hard time, but she prevailed through and persuaded the man as she finally entered his office. Her smile was no longer as high as it was a few moments ago while she closed the door.
Sousuke had finished signing the documents on his desk as she patiently waited in front of him.
"I apologize for having you speak to that irate old man. I'm already meeting with him tomorrow, and I find it unnecessary to deal with him on the phone. I'll make sure to have a talk with him, in treating my staff respectfully."
"No, NO, Aizen-sama! Please don't do that on my account. It was a bit of a hassle to get him off the phone, but I managed," she seemed to have a bit of worry in her voice.
Sousuke motioned for her to have a seat as he leaned back to glance at her. The younger girl began to blush under his scrutiny as she smoothed the tablet that she placed on her lap, gripping the stylus pen in her hand.
"If you're worried about your job, and believe that I would think any less of you once I speak with Judge Hentoi. You're sorely mistaken, McAllon-chan." He rose from his seat to sit in front of his desk in front of the flustered girl. He watched as she looked up at his form that leaned close to her as she bit her lip. "You've only been here a few months, and you've exceeded my expectations." He lifted her chin so she could stare at him. "Don't worry. I promise I'll be nice to him." He smiled, causing the girl to laugh as well.
"As if you could ever be anything else. You're a kind man, Aizen-sama."
He grinned.
"Well some of the district attorney's might find that statement inaccurate," he chuckled, taking his hand away from her as he fixed his shirt. He leaned back and watched how her features slightly looked disappointed from his abrupt distance.
"Your stern and follow certain laws that some tend to try to bend to their will. Not everyone is going to be a fan of someone doing the right thing."
"You flatter me, deningMcAllon-chan."
"W..What was it that you wanted to clarify with me?" her expressive eyes looked at him and waited patiently.
"I wanted to sincerely apologize for making you uncomfortable when I hugged you yesterday."
"Oh!" she nervously shook her head, "You don't have to apologize, I must have looked really pathetic to you if I needed comforting."
"I don't like to see any of my employees distressed. Even if it was regarding an acquaintance of yours, I hope your no longer with," he looked at her sternly as if jokingly chastising a daughter.
"No! That ship has sailed. I honestly don't understand why I wasted my tears on someone like him. Thank you for caring. If you're done with the documents, I can take them off your desk."
"Of course," he watched her stand up and gather the files. Before she could leave, he softly grabbed her arm, pulling her closer to him as she looked up in shock.
"Aizen-sama?" her cheeks were extremely red as she was just centimeters from the handsome Judge while he looked down at her. She felt his fingers brush against her cheek.
"Still wasting your tears?" he expressed, showing her his wet fingertips.
"Oh," she hurriedly whipped away the rest of the access and smiled, "I didn't realize I was crying. I'm sorry. It won't happen again."
He was still staring at her when she realized her arm to let go, but she closed the distance, kissing him on the lips. He stood there as he opened his mouth to let her tongue enter his patient one. She felt his hands carefully hold her full cheeks as she closed her eyes to give a throaty moan. She suddenly heard the rustling of the papers fall to the ground. Her eyes widen as she hurridly bent to pick them up.
"Oh no, I'm so sorry, Aizen-sama." She saw that he was bent down, helping her gather the documents, she was lucky that they were still in order and only needed for her to straighten out some of the papers that fell awkwardly out of the folders.
"The papers can easily be remedied by just straightening them out. I hope it wasn't for kissing me. You're intelligent, beautiful, and young. You flatter an old man."
She couldn't help but find his stare so enticing, and it was like he was removing her clothing with his intense stare. Though his voice was calming and endearing, she felt guilty for shaming herself in kissing her boss. "You're older than me, Aizen-sama but I'd be lying if I said I didn't find you handsome. There's not a woman in this office who doesn't feel the same way. I shouldn't have done that, that was unprofessional and irresponsible on my part. Forgive me."
"It was just a kiss, nothing to feel ashamed about. I could only accept your forgiveness if you did something worth forgiving." Once the words left his mouth, his grin spread across his features as she felt her breath stop short.
"Worth forgiving?" she gulped, feeling the room heat up as she glanced at his lips.
"Mhmm," he looked at the files in her arms, " but I see that you're a bit preoccupied at the moment unless..oh nevermind."
He discreetly left her presence to sit back at his desk. She went to his door and paused in front of it. She hesitated at the doorknob, her curiosity getting the best of her. She turned around, to find that he was wearing his reading glasses to read a new set of case files, he placed on his desk.
"Un...Unless what, Aizen-sama?" she gripped the files while she waited for him to look up and stare at her behind his frames. His smile was addicting.
"Instead of heading to the Diet to drop those files, leave them for tomorrow and lock the door." She contemplated what to do next as he made to continue to read the papers on his desk. Placing the documents on the side table near the door as she locked the door to his office. She knew it was just the two of them this late in the afternoon.
When he heard the soft click of his door, he cleared the case files from his desk and removed his glasses. He gestured for her to come closer, which she compiled.
He took her hand and placed her in front of her, picking her up by the waste for her to sit on top of his expensive rosewood desk.
"Do you wish to know what sort of things are worth forgiving?" he placed his hands on top of her knees as he leaned her back.
"Yes," she moaned out as she felt his hands remove her underwear.
"I hope this doesn't affect your work productivity? I would hate for you to feel uncomfortable to no longer work for me and lose someone as gifted as you."
Before she could answer, she felt his hands take her thighs, widening them. "Of course not, Aizen-sama," she couldn't help but turn beet red at feeling herself become moisten between her legs.
"Good!" She felt his tongue slide between her wet folds as she covered her mouth. His tongue was incredible, and she couldn't help but feel excited at having such a sought out prestigious man such as himself between her thighs. She couldn't help but feel a slight tinge of jealousy seeing him flirt and smile at most of the women who spoke to him. The break up with her ex-boyfriend Cang Du was unexpected, and she didn't realize it was something she desperately needed. If she believed in the small rumors that spread about Aizen-sama who was diligently eating her out, she knew that this was temporary. She was still young; for now, she could enjoy herself as she grabbed his brown hair.
Meninas was like the rest of the women he encountered, who fantasized about being with a man such as himself. He indulged some of them, but he was picky, he had a specific criterion he expected. Once they fit those certain standards, there was nothing that got in the way of getting what he wanted. Once Meninas entered the office for her first day at being his assistant, her sweet and timid nature instantly perked his interest in her. It wasn't that difficult causing the break-up with her ex. Saying a few choice words with her and knowing certain men that would make Cang Du's life miserable if he stayed with her. He was doing the young man a favor, and he could already sense that the young beauty was more interested in spending time with him. Who was he to deny such a beautiful girl's curiosity? Listening to her moan his name as she cried out on top of his desk, was rewarding in itself.
He thought of Orihime Inoue, having her was his ultimate goal. At the wedding, he couldn't help but feel his heart abruptly stop at seeing her at the reception. He thought she was a ghost. Realizing that it was Miku's daughter and how much she had grown, he knew he had to have her. She was already engaged to Ichigo Kurosaki. Something that was no importance to him, when did that ever stop him, with careful planning, he was sure to find flaws in the couple's relationship. They all did. It was just a matter of time. For now, he'll enjoy himself, while he suckled and nipped at his more than willing assistant.
x
So yeah, I introduced Uryu and Meninas, both Quincies and they'll just have a small part in the upcoming chapter, nothing major, since I have a full shit load of other characters I'm sure you guys want to be updated about. I'm looking at you people who want GrimNel. LMAO! I also introduced a Hollow character Granz, the pink-haired mad scientist as Tsukishima's lawyer. You guys are going to hate me when Orihime takes the stand, but I have to do it. Especially, when they asked for 1-minute video, Ichigo is not going to be too happy. Wonder what they have planned? Hmmm!
Meninas I always like her, because she was adorable, like a pink-haired Chubby cheeked Orihime. As for Aizen, I want to stress like I think I explained before, Aizen does tend to manipulate people but he's never been the type to force women into his bed. He doesn't have to. I don't know about you guys, but I don't blame these girls for wanting Aizen. His whole character screams 'Bad guy" yet we still find him sexy as hell. Other than Ichigo who just screams 'Misunderstood bad boy" yet most of us would... hmm I think you have an idea especially what I write in this damn story. LMAO. Thank you for reading. Please Review! YAY!