A/N: This should be the month that I've updated the most! 3 times, I believe? Was in the Byaruki mood recently and I watched back a couple of the anime episodes with lots of Byaruki in them. The anime needs to come back soon!
Anyway, thanks for all the reviews, favourites and alerts! It's nice to see new readers but of course, it's more comforting to see the old ones still sticking by me. Thank you all!

Warning: Colourful language that probably isn't that colourful anymore to my old readers.

Words to note: Hai - Yes. Arigatou - Thank you.

Rukia held on to the magazine tightly as she walked up the steps of the grand hotel. She didn't know if the party had a theme but it was always safe to wear black. She lifted her long dress up slightly as it was hindering her walking in those four inch heels. Rukia glanced around the hotel lobby until she found the sign she was looking for.

Grand Ballroom at level two closed for private event.

Rukia boarded the elevator and let herself out when the doors opened at level two. She noticed several well-dressed people milling around outside the huge doors that must lead to the party. Rukia smiled to herself as she walked towards the big doors, ready to find Byakuya and thank him. She knew she could have just sent him a text but isn't it more polite to thank him personally?

Before her hand could reach out to push open the doors, two men in suits stopped her.

"I'm sorry, before you head in, we need to check if you are on the guest list." One of the men said.

Rukia licked her lips. This was the moment. She knew it wasn't going to be easy to gatecrash Byakuya's party.

"Hitoshi Rukia?" She replied, deciding to try her luck.

One of the bodyguard scanned through the list and frowned at her. "No, you're not on the list."

Oh well, so much for trying. She knew it would come to this. That is why she came prepared.

"How about Kuchiki Rukia?" Rukia replied, as she tried to sound as annoyed as possible.

"Kuchiki Rukia?" One of the guards laughed. "Come on, lady, we know that Kuchiki-sama has no siblings. We're not stupid."

Rukia narrowed her eyes at them. She had often seen Byakuya give that look and she had practiced in the mirror yesterday trying to mimic it. Byakuya had always made it look terrifying and she hoped she had accomplished it.

"Kuchiki Rukia, as in, his fiancée." Rukia replied firmly. "Sometimes Byakuya prefer it when I start to use his family name instead of mine."

The guards seem to notice her seriousness as they scanned through the list one more time.

"No Kuchiki Rukia either." They finally said and laughed. "Come on lady, off you go. This party is strictly for invited guests only."

Of course Rukia knew there would be no Kuchiki Rukia on the list. It was all just an act. Fishing out the magazine, Rukia thrust it into one of the men's hand. It was the magazine she had bought that day from that eccentric newsvendor. Byakuya and her were on the cover, taken when they were in Hong Kong as the caption read 'Yakuza leader, Kuchiki Byakuya's girlfriend revealed!'

The two men looked at the magazine and then they finally stared at Rukia, their mouths hanging open.

"You are Kuchiki-sama's girlfriend." One of them managed to choke out.

Rukia smiled. She knew the magazine would work.

"So, am I allowed in or not?" Rukia asked as she smiled a little two sweetly at them.

The two men bowed deeply. "Yes, of course, Rukia-sama, we are terribly sorry about that."

Rukia waved her hand in the air airily. "Forget it. Count yourselves lucky I am in a good mood today. Byakuya would throw a fit if he knew what happened."

The two men glanced at each other, their faces horrified as they started apologising furiously.

Rukia wanted to laugh but she was feeling kind of sorry for them. Who knew that just the name 'Kuchiki Byakuya' could invoke such fear in them?

"Don't worry, I won't say a word." Rukia replied as the two men immediately thanked her.

They then opened the doors to let Rukia in but before she stepped in, one of the men said, "My apologies, Rukia-sama, I noticed that you do not have a mask. Here, we have some spare ones in case guests forgot to bring them."

He then handed a masquerade mask to Rukia and Rukia took it. So, it was a masquerade party. She looped the pretty gold and white mask around her eyes as she walked in. How was she going to find Byakuya when everyone here was in masks? Rukia stood still as her eyes swept across the majestic ballroom as masked guests walked around with champagnes on their hands. She noticed that there was a marble spiral stairs that seem to lead to upstairs and she had a feeling Byakuya would be on the second floor. She noticed that he hardly enjoyed mingling with his guests and often find an excuse to slip away to be on his own. Seriously, she could never understand why he would still throw parties if he didn't even like socialising with his guests.

Rukia advanced up the steps and her eyes brightened as she spotted Miyo in a waitress uniform handing out glasses of champagne in the middle of the stairs.

"Miyo!" Rukia called out excitedly as she raced forward to greet her friend.

Miyo did a double take as she stared at Rukia for a moment who was now grinning in front of her. Finally realising that it was Rukia, Miyo broke into a smile.

"Rukia, I was wondering when you'll get here!" Miyo exclaimed as she handed a glass of champagne to Rukia.

"How's the job so far?" Rukia asked as she steered Miyo away to the side of the steps to allow people to pass.

"It's been great! Kuchiki-sama does seem like a great man!" Miyo gushed. "The pay is even much more than what I got paid for previously!"

Rukia thought she saw Miyo blush. Why is she blushing? Does she have a crush on Byakuya or something?

"Miyo, do you like Kuchiki Byakuya?" Rukia asked carefully.

Miyo laughed awkwardly. "Is that so obvious?"

Rukia's eyes widened. So it is true. Suddenly feeling a weird tug in her chest, Rukia stared blankly at Miyo. Did something happen between them?

"Miyo, did something happen? I mean, you only met Byakuya once, isn't it? Isn't that a bit quick to fall for someone?" Rukia said as she quickly tried to mask her seriousness with a laugh which only ended up sounding hollow.

Thankfully, Miyo did not notice. "It isn't exactly falling in love. I am just purely attracted to him. Like what you said, he is a good man. Grimmjow-sama said he wanted to attack me but Kuchiki-sama saved me from him."

Rukia stilled. This story was all too familiar. Isn't it like this with what happened between her and Byakuya? Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez attacked her but Byakuya saved her instead. And then, Byakuya had her play the fake girlfriend role. Is he going to do that to Miyo too? Jealousy and bitterness filled Rukia unknowingly. Rukia knew it was crazy but the last time she saw Byakuya, she had told him that she didn't want to play the role anymore. What if he turns to Miyo this time round?

Despite feeling very uneasy, Rukia forced a smile on her face.

"Have you seen Byakuya? I need to talk to him." Rukia said.

Miyo nodded. "He's in the room at the end of the corridor. Just turn left once you reach the top of these steps. I am about to bring him his wine too."

"Oh, I can bring it for him." replied Rukia as she scanned for a glass of wine on Miyo's tray but Miyo shook her head.

"I need to head to the bar to get some first," Miyo laughed. "You should enjoy the party and I'll just continue with my job."

Rukia nodded as she watched Miyo bustled off. Sighing, Rukia continued her way up the stairs with her glass of champagne in hand. With every step she took, the more she dreads facing Byakuya. What if he is displeased she crashed his party? She arrived at the second level and her feet brought her to the last room at the end of the corridor. Well, she had come this far. She would just thank him and if he told her he didn't need her anymore, at least she would know that she should stop waiting for his call or texts.

Taking a deep breath, Rukia took off her masquerade mask and knocked on the door. She stepped in and closed the door behind her. It appeared to be a room with a few armchairs and a table. Byakuya's back was facing her as he continued to stare out of the window.

"Just leave the wine on the table and leave." Byakuya said without turning around.

Rukia walked towards him. "I didn't bring any wine. But I have champagne if you want."

Her voice seemed to have startled him as he whirled around, eyes widening slightly but in a second, his cold mask was back on again.

"Why are you here?" He asked coldly.

Rukia placed the glass of champagne on the table. "I came here to thank you for helping Miyo."

There was no reply from Byakuya as he turned away from her and stared out of the window again. Rukia could feel that he was still mad and she didn't blame him.

"About what happened the other day," Rukia said. "I didn't mean to run off like that. I was just-

"You have thanked me. You can leave." Byakuya interrupted.

Rukia fell silent immediately. Yes, she told herself she would leave after thanking him but she still needed to resolve things between them. She needed to know if she was still his fake girlfriend.

"Am I still… Is Miyo going to replace me?" Rukia asked uncertainly.

At her question, Byakuya turned around. "What are you talking about?"

Rukia swallowed. How was she supposed to phrase this?

"I know I told you that maybe you needed to find a new fake girlfriend but I didn't really mean it." Rukia blurted out. "But I understand that you're mad at me so if you want Miyo to replace me, I'm okay with it."

Rukia looked up to see Byakuya frowning at her. He walked towards her as he continued to stare at her intently. Rukia stilled as he advanced. His impassive face was scaring her.

"Why would you think that you would be replaced by Miyo?" Byakuya asked as he stood in front of her.

"W-Well, I did tell you I didn't want to play the role anymore and you did save her from Jaegerjaquez like what happened between us so…" Rukia stammered.

She didn't know if she should go on. Saying this out loud sounds crazy already. Thankfully, she didn't have to as Byakuya finished it for her.

"So you think whatever happened between us, I will just do the same to your friend too." Byakuya said slowly.

Rukia nodded slowly as her face flush with embarrassment.

"Rukia, for the first and the last time, I have absolutely no interest in your friend." Byakuya replied firmly.

His words made Rukia look up as she stared into his mysterious grey eyes. Who was she kidding? She didn't want to cut off all ties with Kuchiki Byakuya. In fact, Rukia regretted how she had ran away from him the other day. She wanted to stay with him. Rukia knew that her feelings were taking over her mind but she didn't want to care. She was new to these feelings and she wasn't ready to let go of them just yet.

"Byakuya," Rukia said slowly. "The other day, I wanted to stay. I ran because I was scared and confused. But I did want to stay."

Byakuya was now staring at her and Rukia couldn't decipher what he was feeling. There was not the slightest hint of emotion on his face. For a moment, he simply stood there and looked at her silently.

"Sorry," Rukia mumbled. "I know saying this wouldn't help now."

Rukia was about to turn and leave when she felt Byakuya pull her back.

"Are you sure?" Byakuya asked as he stared into her eyes.

"Yes." Rukia replied breathily.

This was the effect Byakuya always had on her. When she was so close to him, he made her feel warm, excited and breathless.

"Did you consume any of the champagne earlier?" Byakuya asked, his tone light once again.

Judging from his tone, Rukia knew that Byakuya was not mad at her anymore. Her eyes flicked over to the glass of champagne earlier that was now sitting on the table.

"Not a sip." She replied truthfully.

"Good." Byakuya replied softly. "Because I want you to remember what you just said."

Rukia nodded. Their faces were inches apart and her heart was banging wildly against her chest.

"Is there anything else you want to confess to?" Byakuya asked.

Rukia felt her face heat up immediately.

What should she say? Yes? Confess that she is feeling something for him? Confess that she wouldn't mind being his fake girlfriend because all she wants is just to spend a little bit more time with him? Of course, Rukia was still clear headed so the only thing she could do was to shake her head.

"N-No." Rukia replied reluctantly.

Rukia thought she saw a flicker of disappointment pass through Byakuya's grey eyes but in a moment, it was gone.

"I see." Byakuya said as he straightened up and stepped away from her.

Rukia felt disappointed as soon as he stepped away but all she did was continue to stare at him.

There was an awkward silence between them as Byakuya looked away. He seemed to be immersed in his thoughts.

"Byakuya," Rukia called out softly. "Can I ask you a question?"

Byakuya looked at her and Rukia continued.

"That day when you told me to stay with you… What do you mean by that?" Rukia asked uncertainly.

Byakuya gave no answer as he seemed to be contemplating about what she had just asked. Byakuya was about to answer when a sharp knock on the door interrupted them.

A slender lady entered the room and Rukia immediately recognised her as Japan's most famous actress, Takashi Mizuki. Rukia's eyes widened. This was her first time actually seeing a famous celebrity in the flesh. Takashi Mizuki swept into the room as she smiled coyly at Byakuya.

"Byakuya-sama, it's been some time since we last met."

Rukia raised her eyebrows. Byakuya knew Japan's most famous actress and never bothered to tell her about it?!

Rukia expected Byakuya to give a warm welcome to his lady guest but was surprised when Byakuya only looked at her coldly.

"What are you doing here?" He asked. "I did not invite you."

Mizuki laughed. "I came with Shinko-sama, the politician you invited, remember? Why are you being so cold to me, Byakuya-sama? Didn't we have a lot of fun the other night?"

Rukia's eyes widened and without knowing why, she felt her heart thump wildly against her chest as she stared at them. What was she talking about? What happened that night?

Rukia noticed that upon the woman's words, Byakuya had flicked his eyes over to her in a slight panic but quickly shifted his gaze to the actress again.

"I do not have time for you. Leave." Byakuya ordered coolly.

The actress seemed to have noticed Byakya's moment of panic when his eyes were on Rukia and her lips curled in disgust.

"Your standards seem to have dropped, Byakuya-sama. I heard the news of Hitoshi Rukia. Is that her?"

Rukia jumped in surprise when she was mentioned but Byakuya ignored the actress. The actress knew that she was being ignored but refused to back down. Knowing that she couldn't get anything from Byakuya, she turned to Rukia instead.

"You are Hitoshi Rukia, aren't you?" She spat out.

Rukia nodded as Mizuki's eyes went back to Byakuya.

"As I seem to remember, you were only attracted in ballet dancers, models and actresses, Byakuya-sama. She doesn't even seem to have the figure for any of these."

Rukia noticed that at the words ballet dancers, Byakuya narrowed his eyes. He looked furious although he didn't show it. But Rukia knew better. With him, she had learnt to read his emotions through his eyes. She couldn't tell how he was feeling every single time but she knew she was correct for most of them.

"What are your intentions for coming here?" Byakuya asked.

Mizuki gave another laugh as she flipped her soft long hair over her shoulder. "Do you really need to ask, Byakuya-sama? You never contacted me after you sent me away that night. I thought you had enjoyed it too when we were having sex."

At the famous actress' words, Rukia flinched and suddenly she felt as though someone had actually reached into her and pulled out her heart. Of course she didn't expect Byakuya to be a virgin but to meet one of his sexual partners definitely wasn't what she wanted. Has he slept with many women?

"Seriously, I see nothing appealing about her. Breasts too small, too short and she just looks like a child!" The actress continued. "How can you even think of having sex with her?"

Rukia could hear the actress clearly but her mind was still on Byakuya. Her chest was starting to ache and when she looked up, she noticed that Byakuya's hand had now shot out to clench the woman on the neck. Rukia gasped in horror. She had never seen Byakuya acted like this and it was terrifying her. The woman was now choking as Byakuya stared at her.

"Do not talk about Rukia like this. She is ten times the woman you will never be." Byakuya said angrily as he finally let go of the woman.

Mizuki tumbled to the ground as she gasped for air, shaking.

Feeling suffocated herself, Rukia dashed out of the room quickly. She was standing alone at the empty corridor as she leaned against the wall trying to catch her breath. What was this achy feeling in her chest? Rukia soon heard footsteps as the door beside her opened and Byakuya stepped out.

"Rukia," he started but Rukia quickly interrupted him.

"You're right. I've said my thanks. It's time I should go." Rukia mumbled as she ran down the corridor and down the flight of steps. Rukia was aware that she had caused several guests to stare at her as she brushed past them but she didn't care. Her mind was filled with images of Byakuya and the actress making out.

Rukia pushed open the heavy doors of the ballroom and continued running until she was at the lobby of the hotel. She took the exit at the back of the lobby that leads to a garden and noticing that she was alone in the cold, she sank herself down on one of the benches and finally allowed her tears to fall.

"This is so stupid. Why am I even crying?" She muttered furiously to herself as she brushed the tears away.

"Rukia."

The deep sound of Byakuya's voice startled her as she looked up in surprise. He had just entered the garden and was now walking towards her.

"What is going on?" Byakuya asked, his face impassive.

Plastering a smile on her face, Rukia replied cheerily, "Don't you have a party to get back too?"

Byakuya's frown deepened as he stood over her small form.

"What is the matter?" He asked, this time a bit more firmly.

Rukia quickly shook her head and laughed.

"Nothing is the matter! You really should get back to your party!"

Rukia watched as Byakuya let out an exasperated sigh.

"Rukia, about what she said, you do not have to take it to heart." Byakuya said softly.

She was about to laugh and brush him off but Byakuya was suddenly cupping her face with one hand as his thumb moved over her cheek and wiped a tear that have seemed to slip from her eye.

He was so close to her and Rukia could only stare up at him.

"I-It wasn't about what she said." Rukia mumbled as she looked away.

"So, what was that about?" Byakuya asked.

"Actually, I-

"Kuchiki-sama!" A voice interrupted them.

Rukia and Byakuya both turned their heads to the direction immediately to find one of Byakuya's guards coming towards them.

Giving a quick bow, the man continued, "I'm sorry to intrude, Kuchiki-sama, but it's time for your speech."

Byakuya turned his head back to Rukia and Rukia immediately smiled.

"You should go back to the party." She said.

"Wait here," Byakuya replied as he took off his blazer and draped it on Rukia's shoulders. "I will be back soon."

Clutching Byakuya's blazer around her, Rukia nodded and smiled as Byakuya turned and walked away.

Rukia was left alone in the garden as the faint smell of cherry blossoms from Byakuya's blazer seemed to soothe her. It was sweet of him to actually notice that she was without a coat and had offered his. Rukia chided herself as she thought of how she had almost told Byakuya that she was actually hurt by what was going on between him and the actress.

Rukia almost let out a dry laugh at herself. What was she expecting? That he would kiss her and tell her there was nothing going on between them? Besides, Byakuya would most probably tell her that whoever he sleeps with wasn't really her business, which sadly, was the truth.

A rustling noise snapped Rukia out of her reverie as she stood up, glancing around. Wasn't she the only one here?

Suddenly, emerging from the bushes, was a man of Kira's build. The man who looked like he was in his forties was unkempt. He approached Rukia and Rukia took a step back in reflex.

"Are you Hitoshi Rukia?" He growled.

"H-How do you-

"Enough said!" The man said as he clamped a hand over Rukia's mouth as he started dragging her away.

Feeling horrified and panicked, Rukia tried to scream as she flailed her arms helplessly. It was no use, no one could hear her and the man had one arm around her neck as the other clamped her mouth shut. He was now dragging Rukia backwards in a fast pace and Rukia struggled again as Byakuya's blazer fell to the ground.

Finally reaching the back gate of the garden, he kicked it open swiftly as he continued to drag Rukia out of the hotel's compound. Rukia could smell the heavy smell of ciggerates on his hand and almost gagged. Forcing herself to calm down, Rukia could hear the crashing of the waves behind her drawing closer and realised that the man has dragged her to the beach.

Reaching into her pocket and throwing her mobile phone on the sand, Rukia's mind started to work as the man continued to drag her. The beach was deserted and the sun was starting to set. If she doesn't get away from this man soon, it would be harder for her to escape in the dark.

Suddenly feeling a hard shove on her back, Rukia felt herself lurch forward as she stumbled and fall on to the sand. Wasting no time, Rukia leapt up as she turned around to face her attacker.

"What do you want?" Rukia asked coldly, narrowing her eyes.

First rule in combat, never let the enemy see your fear.

The man glared at her. "I want to make that bastard Kuchiki pay. He killed my brother, I'll kill his girlfriend."

"You know that by hurting me, he will hunt you down, right?" Rukia replied.

"I don't care. I only want Kuchiki to pay for what he has done." The man replied gruffly.

Rukia noticed the maniacal look on his eyes and she would be lying if she said that she wasn't scared. She was terrified but she isn't going to go down without a fight. She knew that reasoning with this man would be hopeless. The look on his eyes clearly shows that he isn't going to give up until he has killed her.

The man advanced towards her and Rukia stepped back immediately. Withdrawing a fruit knife from his coat, the man launched himself at Rukia before she could react. Rukia felt the air leave her lungs as she hit the sand with the man on top of her. The man raised the knife and was about to plunge down when Rukia grabbed a handful of sand and threw it in his face.

Shouting in anger and pain, the man stopped as his free hand went to his face immediately. Taking the chance, Rukia pushed the man off as she sprinted as fast as she could towards the direction of the hotel. She could hear the man cursing as his footsteps drew nearer. It was no good. He was too fast.

Feeling a sharp pain on her scalp, Rukia found herself being yanked backwards as the man pulled her by her hair and again, she was now lying on the sand.

"Fucking bitch!" The man cursed as he delivered a slap to Rukia's face.

The sharp sting on her cheek immediately brought tears to Rukia's eyes as she glared at him angrily.

"You're pathetic to lay a hand on a woman who has done nothing to you." Rukia spat out.

Her words only angered him further as he let out an angry yell. Both of his rough hands found Rukia's neck as he clamped them around and started squeezing.

Choking, Rukia tried to push the man off but he stayed put. She was running out of air and black spots were starting to cloud her vision. Knowing that she had to fight back, Rukia, with all her strength, delivered a kick to his groin as the man stumbled backwards in pain.

Rukia gasped for air as his hands left her and she got up hastily. Finally, years of training at the police academy is going to pay off as she stared angrily at the man in front of her. Running away isn't going to help her. He would still chase her down. The only way to escape is to fight this man until he's unconscious. Rukia prepared herself as the man made his way angrily towards her.

Byakuya stepped down from the podium as claps filled the ballroom. The only reason he was holding this party was because he needed support from several high ranking politicians. With their support, he would have an easier time as he conquer the next district in Tokyo.

Guests were congratulating him on his speech as Byakuya made his way out of the ballroom. He knew he had secured the support he needed. Therefore, there was no point in hanging around. He needed to find Rukia.

Byakuya made his way to the garden as he looked at his watch. It had been fifteen minutes since he left her. He hoped she was still waiting for him. Upon reaching the garden, Byakuya felt a rush of disappointment to find the garden empty. So, she had left without even texting him.

Byakuya sighed as he sat down on the bench and stared at the first few stars that were now visible in the evening sky. He knew she was upset with him but he couldn't quite figure out why. He needed to know.

Byakuya was furious at Mizuki's "speech" about Rukia and it angered him further when he saw the hurt look on Rukia before she fled from the room. Byakuya took out his phone and dialled Rukia's number. It rang for about half a minute but she did not pick up. Was she still angry with him? Byakuya stood up from the bench and was about to leave when he noticed from the corner of his eye, his black blazer was on the ground.

He walked over and picked it up as he frowned. Knowing Rukia, she would never treat something that expensive like thrash. If she meant to return him, she most probably would have laid it down on the bench. A sudden thought came across his mind and Byakuya froze for a second.

Did something happen to Rukia?

Breaking into a run, Byakuya combed the garden and realised that the back gate was opened. He went pass it and found himself close to the beach. Byakuya could feel there was something wrong and he cringed inwardly as the thought of Rukia hurt flashed across his mind. Byakuya ran as his eyes glanced around the empty beach frantically.

Byakuya stopped in his tracks when he felt his left feet kick against something hard. He looked down to find a mobile phone on the sand. Picking it up, he felt his heart pound frantically in his chest as he recognised the bunny stickers that were pasted on the phone. It belonged to Rukia.

Clutching the phone tightly, Byakuya sprinted across the beach. A sudden commotion drew his attention as he turned his head. Behind several huge rocks, there seemed to be a scuffle and Byakuya ran forward.

He could make out the outline of Rukia and a man as Byakuya advanced but what startled him was how the petite form of Rukia was fighting back. He watched in amazement as she delivered a kick to the man's chest. Byakuya continued running. He wanted to curse himself for not bringing his gun out so that he could shoot the man directly. Without his gun, there isn't much he can do from this distance.

The pair didn't seem to notice him as the wind howled noisily. They were very near the waters now and Byakuya'e eyes widened when he saw the man grabbing Rukia by the head as he dunked her head into the water in an attempt to drown her. Anger coursed through Byakuya as he watched Rukia thrash her hands around the water helplessly. His rage made him all the more faster as he closed the distance between him and the man.

The man seemed to have noticed Byakuya as Byakuya was just several feet away from him. He growled in anger as he pushed Rukia's head further into the water as he laughed.

The man was about to speak when Byakuya grabbed the man and immediately delivered a heavy punch on his face. The man stumbled backwards as he clutched on to his face howling in pain. Byakuya's attention went back to Rukia as he quickly pulled her out of the water. Thankfully, she seemed to be alive as she coughed and spluttered.

"B-Byakuya!" Rukia spluttered as she pushed her wet hair out of her face.

"This is not the time to talk." Byakuya replied as he dragged her out of the waters.

"Fuck you, Kuchiki!" The man bellowed angrily as he launched himself at Byakuya. Byakuya dodged his attack swiftly as the man turned around and cursed again.

Byakuya noticed blood gathering on Rukia's arm and he immediately turned his attention towards the man.

The man seemed to notice what Byakuya had been staring at as he let out a laugh.

"How does it feel to watch her bleed? Does it hurt, Kuchiki?"

In less than a second, Byakuya allowed his rage to take over as he held the man by the collar and shoved the man's head into the water. He watched as the man thrashed violently but Byakuya was much too strong for him.

"Byakuya, please stop!" He heard Rukia cry out in despair as he felt her tug at his arm.

He turned his head to see her almost in tears as she pleaded. "Don't kill him! I don't want you to kill him!"

Byakuya couldn't understand. This man had tried to kill her yet here she is, trying to save his life.

Looking at Rukia's desperate face again, Byakuya sighed as he yanked the man out of the water. The man started coughing as Byakuya merely stared at him in disgust.

"Flith." Byakuya said to no one in particular.

Just then, Byakuya heard a shout and realised that Renji, Ikkaku and several of his men had rushed forward.

"Taichou! What's going on? One of the security guards told us he saw you leaving the hotel compound in a hurry!" Renji asked as his eyes drifted from Byakuya to Rukia and then to the man.

Shoving the useless man towards Renji, Byakuya took Rukia's hand as he started walking away.

"I will leave you to deal with him , Renji." Byakuya said.

"W-What? What has he done?" Renji asked, confused but his grip on the man was firm.

"He tried to murder Rukia." Byakuya said simply and Renji immediately scowled at the man.

"Don't kill him." Rukia murmured beside him and Byakuya was tempted to roll his eyes.

"Do not kill him, Renji." He ordered. "Just make sure he will never repeat his actions again."

"Hai!" Renji replied.

Byakuya could feel Rukia's hand was icy cold and he glanced at her. Her lips were pale and she was shivering. They arrived back in the garden as Rukia let out a sneeze. Her black dress has now clung to her skin due to the water but for once, Byakuya was not turned on. He was more concerned of her well-being as he watched her sneeze again.

They walked through the lobby and Byakuya was aware of the curious glances but Byakuya ignored them. Several staff seemed to recognise him but seemed to be too afraid to approach him. Byakuya finally stepped out of the hotel and getting into his limousine that had been waiting for him, Byakuya instructed his driver to send them back to his place.

"It's fine." Rukia said as she sneezed again. "I can go back to my place."

Byakuya's driver had immediately turned the heater on and Byakuya was glad to see some colour had finally returned to her cheeks.

"My place is nearer." Byakuya said firmly.

Rukia made no further protest as she nodded and smiled at him.

"How did you even get into the party?" Byakuya asked.

He heard Rukia laugh nervously as she blushed. "I threatened the two men with the guests list."

Byakuya raised his eyebrows as Rukia continued, "I told them how furious you would be if they didn't let me in. I showed them our photo on the magazine to prove that I was your fiancée."

"I guess I have to fire them for being so incompetent. Security should be tighter than that." Byakuya replied, half amused.

"Are you really going to do that?" Rukia asked, alarmed. "You can't!"

"Why not?"

Rukia gave a face. "I had actually promised them to be discreet after they let me in. I was the one who lied to them. It wasn't their fault."

"Fine," Byakuya replied. "Nothing will happen to them."

"Really? Arigatou!" Rukia replied as she beamed at him before giving another sneeze.

Byakuya continued to look at her as he cursed himself silently. She was cold, pale and hurt and it was him that landed Rukia in this situation. The man seemed to have a problem with him but being a coward, he chose to attack Rukia. Guilty, Byakuya's left hand inched towards Rukia's right one and he suddenly clasped her hands in his.

Rukia turned to look at him, startled by his sudden action and Byakuya looked away immediately. She made no motion to pull away and Byakuya felt a sense of relief. She stared at him questioningly as Byakuya turned back to look at her.

"What's wrong?" Rukia laughed nervously.

"Rukia, about what happened just now," Byakuya replied. "The man was after me but attacked you instead."

"I know," Rukia said, a smile on her lips. "It's alright, I'm fine now."

Byakuya frowned as he continued to stare at the petite girl beside him. She was serious. She wasn't even mad that he had caused her harm. He did not realise that his grip on her hand has tightened but apparently, Rukia did.

She turned to look at him, her eyes surprised as she tried to read his expression. Byakuya knew he wasn't showing any and he had no intention of explaining to Rukia his actions as he looked out of the window.

The ride back to his mansion wasn't long and with the silence between the pair, they finally reached his residence. Without waiting for his driver to open the door, Byakuya opened it as he led Rukia into the house.

She said nothing as she allowed him to lead the way to his bedroom. Closing the door behind Rukia, he finally released her hand.

"You should take a bath first." Byakuya said in a neutral tone.

"I don't have any spare clothes with me." Rukia replied, her face flushing. "See, I told you it would be better if I head home."

Byakuya made no reply as he walked over to his closet and opened the doors.

"Pick whatever you want." Byakuya replied.

He could see the uncertainty on her face as she walked over gingerly. Her eyes flitted to his face several times as though making sure that he was okay with it.

Byakuya watched her as she stood in front of his closet, her eyes roaming the contents, as though deciding on what she should wear.

Deciding to help her, Byakuya spoke, "If you want, Sakuya's-

"No," Rukia interrupted abruptly. "I'll just take this."

She then took his Versace blue dress shirt and looked at him.

"Will this be okay? She asked uncertainly.

Byakuya gave a nod. Funny how she had chosen one of his favourite shirts.

"I still need some pants." Rukia muttered. "But I don't think I can fit into yours."

"I will get someone to deliver some necessities over." Byakuya replied. "You can wash up first."

She nodded and went into the bathroom and as soon as she closed the door behind her, Byakuya made his call to his driver.

"I need you to get a set of fresh clothing for Rukia. Get help from the store if you need to." Byakuya said as he flipped his phone shut.

Fifteen minutes later, Byakuya's driver had knocked on his bedroom door and handed him a paper bag that was from the store he frequented. They only have the best garments and only the elites could afford them.

"Kuchiki-sama, the stuff you wanted," His driver said at the door. "I had the shop manager pick everything out. I wasn't sure of Rukia-sama's size therefore I showed her a picture of Rukia-sama on the magazine page. She said that all the things in the bag would fit her."

Byakuya took the paper bag over and nodded his appreciation before he closed the door.

Byakuya gave a knock on the bathroom door and said, "Rukia, the things you need are here."

"H-Hai!" Rukia called out.

Byakuya heard her footsteps nearing the bathroom door and soon, the door opened a crack to reveal her hand.

Byakuya placed the handle of the bag onto her hand and after watching her grasp it and close the door, Byakuya went to sit on the edge of his bed. His mind was still going back to what happened previously when the man had attacked Rukia. His first thought then was how he couldn't let Rukia get hurt, or worse, die. He was afraid she would leave him just like that. They weren't finished. Everything between them and his feelings for her were just starting.

He admit that he was afraid of these new feelings he had come to develop for her but Byakuya didn't want to deny it any longer. He didn't want to just protect Rukia. He wanted her. Everything about her.

Perhaps, it was time to let go… After six years, he was finally going to let go of Sakuya.

After towelling herself dry, Rukia opened the paper bag that she had left at the counter by the sink just a minute ago. She reached out and pulled out the soft garments and realised that there was a cotton dress, a pair of pyjamas and two sets of underwear.

Rukia knew Byakuya probably had gotten someone to get these back but she was surprised how they got her size right. Her fingers ghosted pass the fabric and she smiled when she realised how soft they were. Knowing Byakuya, everything must not come cheap.

Choosing the black pair of underwear over the pink ones, Rukia slipped them on and reflexively put on Byakuya's blue dress shirt next. She knew she could pick either the pyjamas or dress but she decided she liked his shirt more. The familiar smell of Sakura brought another small smile to her lips as she grabbed the pyjama pants and put them on.

Checking herself on the mirror and making sure that she looked decent, Rukia opened the door of the bathroom. She raised her eyebrows when she noticed that a stack of what looked like Sakuya's clothing was on the floor beside the closet. She watched as he continued to move another stack of her clothes on to the floor.

Did he miss Sakuya so much that he was looking through her clothes? The thought made Rukia's chest ache once again.

"What are you doing?" She heard herself ask.

Looking up from his task, Byakuya replied, "Clearing away things that I no longer need anymore."

His answer made Rukia's eyes widened as she wondered what could he possibly meant. She continued to watch him as he piled the clothes into a box and then proceeded to shut the box. She watched as he suddenly made his way towards her, his expression impassive.

"Sit." He ordered as he pushed her shoulders down to sit on the bed.

She sat down dutifully as she watched him sit next to her. The next thing she knew, he had lifted her injured arm and began rolling the sleeve of his shirt upwards, taking extra precaution when he went pass her wound. Rukia flushed at their closeness and quickly chided herself mentally that he was merely trying to treat her.

Rukia had washed the wound during her shower and was surprised when she noticed the blood was coming out once again. He then retrieved a cotton bud from his bedside drawer together with a bottle of what looks like ointment.

Dipping the cotton bud into the bottle, Byakuya said, "This might sting for a bit."

"It's fine." Rukia replied.

It was true. This was nothing compared to the pain she had the previous time when she had took the attack for Byakuya. Suddenly, realising that this was all very much like history repeating itself, Rukia let out a small chuckle.

"What is so funny?" Byakuya asked as he applied the ointment on her arm.

"Didn't you realise this is the second time that I've gotten injured in the arm and was sent to your place?"

Byakuya furrowed his brows as he threw the cotton bud into the trash can.

"And I was the cause of it during both times." Byakuya replied.

Laughing, Rukia allowed Byakuya to bandage her arm as she said, "Yes, and you had better find some way to make it up to me!"

"Well, what do you want?" Byakuya asked as he proceeded to roll down the sleeves of the shirt.

Rukia pretended to ponder. "How about the new Chappy plushie that came out last month?"

She thought she saw Byakuya smile a little as he replied, "The rabbit thing you are so fond of?"

Rukia looked up in surprise. "How did you know?"

"It is not that difficult to figure that out." He replied.

Rukia made no reply as she let the comfortable silence between them take over.

"Rukia," Byakuya said suddenly beside her. "We have yet to finish our conversation."

"What conversation?" Rukia asked.

"The one we had earlier in the garden." Byakuya replied as he turned to look at her.

His eyes were boring into hers as Rukia looked away hastily. Right, about that, what was she going to say now? Byakuya was silent as he waited for her answer.

Rukia made a motion to stand but was quickly stopped by Byakuya as he pulled her by her uninjured arm to motion her to sit.

Sighing, Rukia sat back down as she muttered, "It really wasn't what she said that made me upset."

He stayed silent as he let her continue.

"It was you." Rukia finished off.

She watched the slight surprise in his eyes as he stared at her, looking thoroughly confused as to what he had done.

"Is this still about how I did not tell you what happened between us when you were drunk on Christmas Eve?" Byakuya asked.

Rukia felt her face grew tingly and hot as memories of what happened came flooding back again. Quickly pushing it out of her mind, she replied, "No. We were past that, weren't we?"

Byakuya continued to look at her as though prompting her to continue and she did.

"It was just that what happened between you… and that actress was…" Rukia trailed off softly.

"Was what?" Byakuya asked.

"It wasn't something I would like to know." Rukia replied in one breath.

She watched as he studied her face as though he was trying to decipher her words. Their faces were so close, she could practically count the number of eyelashes he has.

Clearing her throat as she scooted a little further away from him, Rukia laughed, "But I was being silly. I mean, which man would be idiotic enough to reject her? She is gorgeous!"

"She is nothing compared to you." She heard Byakuya say as she turned her head around so quick she thought her neck almost snapped.

"W-What?" Rukia stared at him.

"She is nothing compared to you," Byakuya repeated seriously.

Rukia could not help it but the big, fat word 'LIAR' flashed into her mind immediately. Why was Byakuya lying to her? If he really thought she was better, why did he reject her the other night when they were making out? The familiar pang of hurt resurfaced as Rukia tried to swallow them down.

"Really?" Rukia heard herself ask in an accusatory tone before she could stop herself. "Then why did you sleep with her?"

"It was a mistake." Byakuya replied.

"Miyako-san is right," Rukia continued slowly. "I am nothing like those dancers or models or actresses. It was a mistake but at least you had the desire to sleep with her."

"Rukia, what are you talking about?" Byakuya asked sharply.

His tone wasn't stern but Rukia could sense that he was impatient, perhaps trying to keep up with her.

"If I am anything like them, you wouldn't have rejected me the other night." Rukia blurted out.

Her own outburst startled her as she cupped her hand over her mouth in horror. Oh no, what did she just say? She darted a frantic look at Byakuya but she couldn't read his emotions, if he even had any at the moment.

"Rukia," Byakuya finally said. "You thought that I rejected you because you were not attractive enough?"

Rukia made no reply as she looked away in embarrassment.

"Answer me, Rukia." Byakuya commanded.

Finally, she gave a small nod and then suddenly, she felt herself being pulled forward by Byakuya as he crushed her into his chest and his lips were suddenly on hers.

A/N: Giving you all a heads up for the next chapter! The thing you guys have been waiting for will be in the next chapter! Oh, I'm sure you know what I mean! *cough cough* But it isn't all rainbows and sunshine in the next chapter. Okay, no more spoilers!
Does anyone know where I can read any Byaruki doujinshis online? I'm in desperate need of some Byaruki doujins! Please let me know if you know! I will love you so much!

Reviews make me happy. You know what to do! ;)