*cries in Spanish* School is back which means when I'm writing this, it is probably 2am like now. I have so much going on I wonder why I like adding things to my plate. My weeks are literally school, work, YouTube prod, family, etc. The Internet is my relief and my stress with these virtual classes.

But anyway, I hope you guys are doing alright. Please take care of yourself.

I hope this chapter has more of Grimmjow's view on things. I like his pov; I just find myself writing more Ichigo's actions and thoughts.


Grimmjow hit the padded hands hard, ducked when necessary, kicked brutally, and looked like an aggressive panther defending his territory. And in a sense…well, that statement wasn't too far from the truth. With a week until the fight, Grimmjow wasn't his usual quiet, moody, analytical self that existed prior to fights. This time, he was aggressive, brutal, and still very ready to rip Kariya's head off. The training was good though because Grimmjow had to keep within the organization's fighting rules. He couldn't deal any illegal hits or go into a blind rage and end up biting his opponent's ear off or something.

Grimmjow had to play by the rules while being sure to teach Kariya a lesson for touching what's his. Wait! Grimmjow couldn't think that. Scratch that. He had to teach Kariya for 'disrespecting' Ichigo. Yeah, that's more like it. That was a reasonable excuse.

Interestingly enough, the man hadn't seen Ichigo as much as normal. He would see the orange-haired man in suits more often and disappearing for hours on end when Grimmjow was usually working in the gym with Shawlong and others. At first, Grimmjow expected Aizen to chew out his bodyguard for leaving, but Ichigo told him he was doing some sidework.

'Nothing you need to be worried about. You know Aizen likes adding more stuff for me to do.' Ichigo had nodded and even smiled.

That's what made Grimmjow so ready to believe him. He did have a fight to prepare for though. He would have to wait 'til after to grill Ichigo again on secrets. Maybe I could kiss him again, Grimmjow thought wickedly. He hadn't thought about it much only because Grimmjow was doing it more out of spite and trying to catch Ichigo in his lie. It kind of worked. Grimmjow didn't see them in any gossip paper or website, but that didn't bring him any closer to what was keeping Ichigo so secretive.

Grimmjow started attacking his speed bag a bit faster. Shawlong had introduced it as a way for Grimmjow to focus his hits even if it was used more in boxing. Grimmjow thought it was good to do when he needed to think. The punches became consistent as the man stared at his bandaged hands. Ichigo was becoming a bit more of a mystery to him.

On one hand, the young man was some college grad who for some reason had this job when he could be working who knows where. On the other hand, Grimmjow would admit he was a pretty good bodyguard and detailed—at least he looked so. As a person, Ichigo seemed to be loyal to those he cared about and willing to protect anyone who needed it. Apparently, that's why he got so good at fighting. Grimmjow tensed slightly.

He was so ready to fight the Berry he had to calm himself down before he got too irritable from his impatience. Grimmjow had to get his mind straight. If he wanted to fight Ichgio, he had to win against Kariya. Grimmjow gritted his teeth. He wouldn't give that other man the satisfaction of seeing him defeated or a chance at Ichigo.

Grimmjow paused at the thought and brought his arms down. He rolled his neck and took a few deep breaths. He needed to stop himself from getting so clingy to the bodyguard. He was already overly curious about why he wasn't in the gym while he trained even he would just be on his phone most of the time. Grimmjow shook his head and went over to grab his towel. He needed a spar—something serious to get him to clear his brain while he focused on trying not to get his ass kicked, a serious opponent.

Grimmjow grinned and knew who just to call. He just had to rile them up a bit.


Grimmjow panted as he tried to think of how to get out of the dangerous leg lock he was currently stuck in. He had the thought of pulling on his opponent's long hair, but that was dirty. He had fight smart and try to use his weight to his advantage.

He grunted as he tried to lift himself on his arms quickly in order to throw his opponent off. He used the change in weight distribution to lift himself up before rolling over and getting on his feet just in time to block a kick directed at his face. Grimmjow grinned. Relentless as ever. He liked the cold serious look on the opponent's face. It was only focused on the fight and finding ways to get Grimmjow pinned on the ground and defeated.

It was a long sparring session, and they were both tired. But it could be awhile before this fight ended. There were no trainers or refs to call an end. They could just keep going until there was no point.

"Watch the face. It's one of my best assets." Grimmjow chuckled. He didn't get a response, but he was used to that.

He swung and landed a fist on the person's forearm. That contact was painful, but Grimmjow would be better off if they didn't use those powerful legs of theirs.

"Oh, it's Nelliel."

Grimmjow straightened up and watched as his opponent's cold gaze melted and a large smile was plastered on her face. He sighed. His spar would be over now though he did need to call it quits for the day.

He turned and saw Ichigo standing in a dimly lit gym in a pair of black jeans and with a pale orange shirt. He glanced down and noticed a large red heart-shape box that was more than likely chocolates. Grimmjow grunted. He stepped out of the ring. "Tch, someone's skippin' out of work. I thought ya were working with Aizen."

Ichigo met his glare. "Evening off. I had to meet up with someone." He mumbled. He looked back at the woman. "But Nelliel, you looked great in there. Were you giving Grimmjow a run for his money?" he chuckled.

The woman smiled brightly and clapped her hands together. "Oh, we were just having some fun. I haven't sparred in a while. I'm totally rusty."

Grimmjow rolled his eyes. "Rusty my ass." He muttered. He went over and wiped his face with a towel.

Nelliel waved her hand then she stretched and rubber her shoulder. "I was so excited when Grimmjow called. After he's little stunt at the weigh-in, I thought I wouldn't see him because he'd be moping around before his fight."

Grimmjow grunted as he opened his water bottle. "I don't mope!" he barked before gulping down the liquid. "Besides, I'm gonna wipe the floor with that bastard."

Ichigo smiled slightly. "So much for that heartfelt apology." He shook his head. His phone went off and he stared at the notification for a moment. He sighed and looked back at the two. "I gotta go." He stated.

"Tch, 'nother hot date?" Grimmjow looked disinterested but his tone wasn't any bit teasing.

Ichigo gave him a slightly annoyed look and shook his head. "I got to take care of something."

"Aww, I was hoping you'd join us for dinner." Nel smiled.

Ichigo's expression softened. "Another time. This is kinda important." He waved awkwardly with the hand that had the box. "See you guys." And with that, he walked out the gym. The two watched as the door opened and the man disappeared.

Nel turned to see Grimmjow shift quietly and stood by a bench. He removed his gloves and started to unravel his bandages. She could tell there was something off about Grimmjow, but she couldn't tell what. It's not his usual rage or annoyance. She needed to test the waters. "Has Ichigo started dating? That's new." She faced his back. All she got was a grunt in response. He didn't even turn. I have to try something else. "Hm," she started as she began to stretch, "Ichigo is a smart, handsome beau. He'll definitely have a boyfriend soon if he plays his cards right. I'm sure there are many guys out there waiting for a chance." She stood up fully and were greeted by Grimmjow's cold blue eyes.

She high-fived herself mentally. Bingo! "It'd be new for you if Ichigo had a boyfriend to draw his attention." She smiled slightly. Grimmjow's shoulders tensed. That's when it clicked for Nel. "Oh my gosh Grimmjow, are you jealous?" she practically squealed.

The man's eyes grew large, and he quickly turned away. "Shut the fuck up Nel. I don't know what you're talking about."

Nel gasped and kept going. "That makes so much sense. You guys have been spending a lot of time together." She paused and tapped her finger on her chin. "With you being you, I'm sure most people would leave Ichigo alone unless…Grimm! Did that Kariya guy flirt with Ichigo? Is that why you punched him?"

Damn, she's too smart for her own good. Grimmjow knew there was no point in lying to her, but he wasn't going to admit to anything either. "I punched him because he was saying thing he shouldn't. I don't even think they've actually met." He explained.

Nel wasn't buying it though. Grimmjow was still a hothead, yes, but Nel knew he was able to control himself compared to their high school days since profession fighting gave him…an outlet for his aggressions…or pleasure. Sure, Kariya could have said something, but Nel wanted to know what exactly. But at the moment, that wasn't that important. Not when she could torment Grimmjow a little more on this topic. "Gah! Grimmjow, I can't believe you haven't asked him out."

Grimmjow shook his head. "Ichigo is my bodyguard—sent to me and paid by Aizen."

Nel rolled her eyes and waved her hand. "Yeah, yeah, but we know how Ichigo is. He's very protective, and he would definitely go out of his way for you. Take him out."

"You do realize he goes nearly everywhere with me already?" Grimmjow could try to disprove the woman.

Nel wouldn't falter. "Okay and? So that really just proves that you guys could be closer than you realize. Sure, knowing you, you guys probably butt heads, but" Nel smiled, "you might not even know just how much Ichigo cares about you."

Grimmjow could only stare at for her for a moment. "Whatever. Ichigo can do what he wants." He started packing his things. "Let's get some food."

Nel smiled and followed his lead. "I knew you were the jealous type." She giggled.

"Nel, shut up."


Ichigo pulled on his hoodie and sat around at the coffee shop he was currently in. Truth be told, he was tired. He had been running around trying to catch the creep that occasionally blew up his phone with threats and such. He kind of got a break this afternoon when he finally agreed to see that Russian god—Alexander—who just happened to be a cybersecurity techie that enjoyed working out. Apparently, his appearance made him quite popular with the internet and everything, but Ichigo didn't mind his time with him. The guy was much friendlier and less of a flirt (probably because he was sober) and actually seemed interested in Ichigo's work and his attempts at keeping Grimmjow safe. Ichigo didn't bring up the whole stalker issue, but Alexander gave him a couple pointers and offered to help if Ichigo needed.

So I got a friend out of that…and a box of chocolates. Ichigo was grateful though because most of his previous attempts at tracking down this obsessed asshole were hitting a few walls and barriers that he didn't know to maneuver. Ichigo shook his head. I definitely didn't think I'd be in this situation when Urahara suggested it.

Ichigo glanced up and connected with mischievous eyes and a grin. "What? Not happy to see me?"

The young man sighed. "I'm tired, so I'm hoping you're gonna make this quick, Kariya."

The man took a seat and placed a cup in front of Ichigo. "Hot chocolate." He grinned again, but Ichigo kept his scowl. "Is Grimmjow ready to get his ass beat?"

"Make this quick." Ichigo replied before sipping the drink. "I told you not to waste my time."

"Fine, Ichigo." The man sighed. "That asshole's superfan hasn't been in contact with me but…I had a few people I know do some digging." Kariya explained.

Ichigo raised a brown and nodded slowly. "Why would you go out of your way to do something like that?"

Kariya only grinned and shrugged. "I have a few people who owe me favors. Loyalty is very important to me."

"Right."

"Anyway, there's no fingerprint or anything on the letter that was sent, but someone noticed that there is a pretty consistent set of phrases used in some popular uh…fan accounts online." Kariya went on.

Ichigo shook his head and grinned internally. I wonder if Grimmjow knows about those…he probably does—damn people just feed that ego. He looked down at the paper slid in on the table. There were a few phrases that would at first appear totally unrelated to this whole situation. "And you're sure whoever is running these is a superfan?"

Kariya gave him a bored look. "Would you like to look at all the word porn I found about your boy toy?" Ichigo blushed but didn't say anything. "That's what I thought." There was definitely some disgust in his voice. "That's what I got for you. That and some links. You're going to need a professional for all this, Ichigo."

Ichigo nodded and ran his hand through his hair. "Yeah, I'm starting to realize that. Thanks…by the way. I still don't really get why you're helping."

Kariya grinned. "I want to be the one who puts Grimmjow in his place. I don't need any obstacles in my way." And with that, he stood up and leaned down to whisper into Ichigo's ear. "When you get this all squared away, let me take you out…relieve some of that tension he's causing."

Ichigo couldn't get a word out since the man walked away right after. He shook his head and brought the cup to his mouth for a drink. He glanced again at the paper in front of him before folding it and putting it in his pocket. Only this time, he didn't notice the cameras and flashing that had been working in the shadows near him.


Grimmjow was beyond piss.

His phone flashed to notify him, and it took everything in him not to chuck the device across the room. He was having a rare break between his workouts and should be enjoying it. Something told him to leave his phone alone and cool down, but…some people tend to feed the fire. So of course, Grimmjow unlocked the device and glanced down at the what was probably another picture. Fucking bast-

Grimmjow felt a cold wet sensation on his forehead and glared up. He took the icy water bottle and barely nodded. Ichigo didn't seem to take offense and walked away. Grimmjow couldn't stand it. The bodyguard was starting to hang around more since Grimmjow was only days away from his fight. In fact, it was as if things were back to normal. Except it wasn't.

Grimmjow didn't know if he wanted to take his aggressions out on Kariya or Ichigo at this point. He was trying to conduct himself in a business manner for his own sake. After this fight, there would only be one more before Grimmjow took on the title holder. He was very close; he couldn't let himself get distracted. He looked back at his phone and cussed. However, Grimmjow didn't like lies or secrets, and this is what he was dealing with. He'd have to talk to Ichigo later. There was training to do.

Later on that night, Ichigo walked into the kitchen for his late craving. He had managed to get a few boxes of cereal on the training property that suit his taste—even if Grimmjow called it sugary shit. There was no way wheat cereal and plain oats were going to satisfy Ichigo's habitual late snack cravings. The kitchen was small considering most people who stayed ate from the specialty café, but Ichigo didn't mind. There was a table and a large window where he could sit and stare out of as he sat dowm.

Grimmjow's been a bit different than other fights. Ichigo wasn't sure if he liked the normal slightly anxious Grimmjow, but the aggressive and focused one wasn't bad either. Ichigo thought it was a good fire to have, but Grimmjow didn't seem to be turning it off when he dealt with other people or specifically Ichigo. The young man didn't exactly mind, but it did kind of suck to get attitude from the man he was jumping through hoops and ladders to protect. But Grimmjow doesn't know about all that. And it was true. Ichigo was going to have to tell him sooner or later but probably after this fight against Kariya. Meanwhile, Ichigo's phone had stayed rather quiet in terms of contact with this mysterious obsessed individual who clearly thought Grimmjow was destined for himself. Ichigo would admit that he was a bit concerned, but he was finally getting together the resources to track down whoever it was. He looked out the window and wondered if Grimmjow was asleep.

The fighter stared at his ceiling—unable to sleep. For the last few days or so, he had been getting random photos and videos of Ichigo hanging out with…well Kariya. Grimmjow recognized most of them from the night Nel was over, but there was another day too. He tried to figure out why the messages kept coming from different numbers, but Grimmjow's attitude got the best of him. Why the fuck would the Berry be talking to him of all people? It was a bit obvious that Grimmjow was at least troubled by the photos. They always came from different angles, and there were even a few that appeared to be Kariya kissing Ichigo on the cheek at some coffee shop. It was keeping him up.

Ichigo wasn't one to lie really, but Grimmjow had been getting the feeling that something was up for a while. He just would have never expected the man to be going off to meet a guy Grimmjow had readily punched in the face after the comment he made. But here he was. It didn't sit right with Grimmjow, but he couldn't shake the…pissed (and jealous) feeling he had.

The man turned over to look at the clock. Ichigo was probably up getting some cereal. This was the best opportunity Grimmjow got to talk things out. He was bubbling on the inside, and there was no point in waiting 'til after his fight to clear things over. He needed to know why the heck Ichigo was with that man. Was Ichigo lying the entire time to him?

Fuck, I can't just sit here and be pissed about it. So Grimmjow rolled out of bed and threw on a pair of joggers and a hoodie.

Ichigo continued to stare out the window until he felt a presence nearby and saw Grimmjow standing in the doorway. "Oh, uh hey. You're still up."

Grimmjow grunted and looked around for a moment. He seemed unsure of what he should do. He moved through the room and sat across from the bodyguard. He glanced outside and made note of how the stars shined brightly in the dimly lit kitchen. He sighed. "Humor me Berry, can I trust you?"

"It'd be pretty awkward if you didn't, I think." He replied and tilted his bowl back and emptied his bowl from the milk. When he looked back at Grimmjow, the man's blue eyes were annoyed and cold. Ichigo froze for a moment. What the hell is going on with him?

"You've been keeping secrets from me."

Ichigo suddenly felt a lump in his throat. This was definitely not the time or place for this discussion, but Ichigo had made it up in his mind that if prompted by Grimmjow he had to tell the man what was going on. It was his safety involved after all. Ichigo cleared his throat. "Well, I-,"

"Don't you dare try to lie to me either. I saw you." Grimmjow interrupted with a low voice.

Ichigo's brain paused. Wait, what? He was visibly confused. "What do you mean you saw me? Saw me doing what?"

"You were with him!" Grimmjow nearly barked out.

Ichigo tensed and tried to scour his mind for whatever the heck Grimmjow was talking about. There was some large misunderstanding going on, but Ichigo also had no clue what Grimmjow was referring to. Ichigo saw the same people when he was gone and was with Grimmjow most of the time anyway. "What are you talking about?"

Grimmjow was starting to get annoyed. Ichigo was avoiding the topic and playing dumb. He clenched his teeth and tried not to raise his voice too much. "Don't ya fuckin' lie to me either…are you seeing that bastard—Kariya?"

Ichigo swore his brain crashed for a few seconds. "Am I see Kariya?" he dumbly repeated.

Grimmjow kissed his teeth. "Don't fucking repeat me, Kurosaki. Answer the damn question."

Ichigo had to take a deep breath. This was totally random and not what he thought Grimmjow was calling him out on. "No, I'm not 'seeing' Kariya, Grimmjow. What the hell? I-,"

"Then what the hell is this?" Grimmjow slid his phone across the table and slouched in his chair with his arms crossed. His leg bounced quickly, and he tried to all but glare at Ichigo.

The young man picked up the phone and swiped through what seemed like a gallery of photos of himself at different angles from the night at the coffee shop and the time he had initially met with Kariya when he was off. There were ones from different angles and distances. Then, Ichigo came across the one that made him realized why Grimmjow had asked him that question. Ichigo knew it was the moment right before Kariya left and whispered to him, but it did make sense how from the right angle it could look like something else, a kiss.

"Oh."

"Tch, is that all you can say? I can't believe you Kurosaki. I'm tellin' ya this guy is an asshole, and you're over here-,"

Something else was bothering Ichigo about this though. "Wait, where did you get these?"

Grimmjow stopped his rant and glanced over at Ichigo. He felt a bit embarrassed at admitting that he had absolutely no clue who was sending him these pictures and that he had let them get under his skin without realizing that some stranger has his number. "I don't know."

"What?" Ichigo blurted out. Was Grimmjow really this irresponsible at times? He rubbed his forehead. "What do you mean you don't know?" I'm gonna have to search his phone.

"Like I said. I was just getting sent them, but don't avoid the question, asshole. Why the hell were you with him?" Grimmjow huffed.

Ichigo shook his head. "At first, he ran into me and wanted to talk about something. Then, he did me a favor."

"I could have done you a favor."

Ichigo only smiled slightly at the childish response. "No Grimmjow, you couldn't have. Not this one." Ichigo was also surprised by the man's behavior.

He watched as Grimmjow stood from his seat and went to stand over him. "Try me. I need ya to be more specific. What could that bastard do for you that I can't?"

Ichigo took in the rather heated stare he was receiving. Grimmjow looked every bit annoyed, anxious, and rather…well possessive as he looked down, and Ichigo was starting to feel hot and exposed from the attention. Ichigo blushed and turned away. "You jealous asshole."

"So what?"

Ichigo looked back up—shocked from the response. He didn't quite get why Grimmjow would be jealous of Ichigo being out with some guy—with Kariya that made sense, but he recalled a similar reaction when Grimmjow brought up Ichigo's date with Alexander. Ichigo scratched his cheek. "I think you're a bit confused about why I'm here. I'm your-,"

"Bodyguard. Yes, whatever. I don't care. I don't like seeing ya pawn yaself with some loser. Do you need some attention, Berry?" So the nickname was back which was a good sign. "Is that what I can help you with?" Grimmjow grinned and Ichigo was grateful he was sitting down.

Ichigo shook his head. "No, I'm fine…" he replied quietly. "Jeez asshole, you can't get so jealous and possessive. You haven't even taken me on a date or something." Ichigo grumbled.

"Is that what it's gonna take?"

"What?" Ichigo's blush flared again.

Grimmjow leaned down slightly. "So I have to take you out on a date? If I do that, you'll leave this bastard alone?"

Ichigo really didn't know what to say. This conversation was off the rails at this point. "Grimmjow…don't you have a fight to focus on?" Ichigo was really deflecting a lot of things tonight.

Grimmjow only grinned like maniac and was near giddy thinking about the opportunity. "Berry, I'm gonna kick his ass anyway. But if I can get a date out of ya, then I'll make sure he's bruised and battered if I have to."

Ichigo couldn't believe this. "Quite the romantic." He rolled his eyes.

"You don't even know. I'm not just the stuff of wet dreams, Ichigo." Grimmjow chuckled and winked.

Ichigo simply blushed. "Whatever Grimm. Just win your fight, okay?"

"Of course, then I'll take you out and show you just how attentive I can be." He licked his lips and chuckled.

Ichigo only looked up and nodded. He barely registered what he was agreeing to or what all of this was implying, but either way, a deal is a deal.


*tap dancing continues* I give you plot, feels, fluff, range!

I liked this chapter, and I hope you do too. These two really butt heads over silly stuff, but poor Ichigo is trying to keep it together.

Thank you for reading. Please review if you feel so inclined and take care of yourself. Bye~