READ THIS FIRST - When reading this story, assume that:
1. The incident involving the 13th squad captain, vice-captain (Kaien-dono) and Rukia has already happened.
2. Rukia has heard from her brother that Renji will most probably become the Vice-captain of the 6th squad.
3. The story takes place the night before Rukia leaves for the living world, and meets Ichigo in the first episode.

A/N: And with that out of the way, please proceed. Sorry for the information dump, but I couldn't find a way to write those premises within the story as I'm afraid it will ruin the timing. Now, on with the story...

Disclaimer: I don't own BLEACH, blah blah blah... you know how this goes.

On the Way, In the Way

"It's not your fault, you know," Renji said as soon as Rukia appeared at the exit doorway of the 13th Squad Headquarters.

"You didn't have to come and see me off," she said coolly.

"I didn't," he said as she walked past his shoulder.

She paused, glancing sideways.

"I came here to stop you," he turned to look at her.

She peered closely at him. "What makes you think you can make me stay?" she said, almost threateningly. But even the fierce tone of her voice could not hide the emotion in her eyes.

"This," Renji said as he reached for her face and put his lips to hers. With his thumb still caressing her cheek, he felt her respond. Parting her mouth slightly, slowly touching the tip of her tongue to his, he felt her arms wrap around his shoulders, tight, but weak. And as he deepened the kiss, he felt... tears... running across her cheek and onto his own.

She pulled away, her hands pushing at his chest. "That's precisely the reason why I should leave," she said, taking a step back and turning to run away.

He caught her arm. "'Don't you feel the same way, Rukia?" he asked, and held his breath for the answer.

Without looking up, and in a cold tone, she said, "No."

Renji's grip on her tightened. But without a moment's hesitation, she shook his arm off and ran away.

You're well on your way to greatness, Renji. Don't waste your time on the likes of me, she thought, as she let one final tear escape.

.end.
26.04.06 00:58

A/N 2: And there goes my first attempt at a Bleach fanfic. Not very good, I know, but hopefully I'll come up with something better as I watch later episodes (I've only seen until Ep.45). And I know I kinda suck at writing kissing scenes, so sorry 'bout that. But, how will I get better if I don't practice:P And, well, practice is just better when the character is Renji. Hehe XD Sorry about the title though, I suck at that, too. :" Please, don't hesitate to leave a review. Thanks a lot!