A/N: Hi all! I know it's been a really long while since I updated! Sorry! Exams got in the way and I have several personal issues to deal with, hence, the long wait.
I also got several unkind PMs about my previous chapter on how Byakuya isn't stupid enough to pay so much to that doctor EVEN AFTER I have edited in the A/N that specifically said that everything will be explained in this chapter. I know that it is probably a thing that I've overlooked that readers may get frustrated or annoyed but I have explained myself and apologised, haven't I? What do you still want from me? A public apology? I'm sorry to say that these PMs actually got me all riled up and I think I may stop writing after completing 'Undercover'. I really do appreciate and love you all who have been with my stories all this while and there are also some of you who always take the time to review every chapter and even PM me to ask me how am I doing and stuff.
Anyway, I hope my anger towards the few will fade away quickly as I'm shameful to say that it has hindered my updating progress and I wouldn't want that as I want to at least complete 'Undercover' before I leave FF.
Ok, end of rant. Sorry, to put you through this. Onward with the story then!
Words to note: Arigatou Gozaimasu – Very polite form of thank you; Hai - Yes
They broke apart as the patter of shoes could be heard coming their way. They watched as a nurse rush past them as she disappeared around a corner.
"You should go home," Rukia said. "I'll wait for Ichigo."
"Rukia, is that brat still bothering you?" Byakuya asked, feeling slightly annoyed at how Rukia was wasting her time with that orange haired prat.
He watched as Rukia laughed.
"Not anymore," she replied. "We're back to being just friends."
Her words slightly ease the unsettling feeling in him as he gave a nod.
"Come over to my place after you are done here." Byakuya replied. "My limo will be out here waiting for you."
"But, it's almost two now." Rukia said as she glanced at the clock on the wall beside her. "Won't it be pretty late after I'm done here?"
Byakuya leaned towards her and smirked as he watched her blush at their close proximity.
"If you think I am letting you head home tonight, you are terribly wrong," Byakuya said huskily into her ear.
Rukia stumbled back, her face burning more than ever as she stared back at him.
"I will be waiting for you." Byakuya said as he took the pack of pills from Rukia's grasp and slipped it into his pocket and left before she could say another word.
As soon as Byakuya got into his limo, he made a call to Unohana and was slightly surprised to hear her sound very much awake at this hour.
"Ah, Byakuya," Unohana called out through the phone. "Do you need something from me?"
"Yes, I have some pills here and I would like you to find out what kind of pills these are." Byakuya said as he stared at the pills on his hand.
"Certainly, I will reach your place in half an hour." Unohana replied and Byakuya hung up.
Byakuya was suspicious of the doctor but at that point of time, with Rukia's life at stake, he had to get his hands on these pills first. Byakuya was no expert in medicine but he wasn't going to risk Rukia's life just because he merely felt suspicious of the doctor. He would find out the results from Unohana and if that doctor really had lied to him, Byakuya would make sure that the doctor would suffer.
"Turn back to get Rukia after you have dropped me off later." Byakuya commanded as his driver nodded.
Rukia watched as Byakuya disappeared behind the sliding doors of the hospital. Her cheeks reddened further at the thought of how suggestive he had been just a moment ago and she shivered in delight.
Rukia smiled to herself as she headed towards the plastic seats but a sudden thought made her stop in her tracks as she stood, frozen.
Byakuya had taken the pills from her! Rukia's heart started beating rapidly as she blinked several times, trying to comprehend why Byakuya had done that. What was he going to do with the pills? He knows that she needs them, doesn't he?
Rukia didn't know how long she had stood there thinking, until a voice snapped her out of her reverie.
"Oi, Rukia! What are you thinking about?" Ichigo's voice boomed behind her as Rukia gave a jump.
"I-Ichigo, that was fast!" Rukia stammered as she whirled around to face her friend.
"Yeah, well, all they did was stitch me up." Ichigo replied.
"Oh," was all Rukia could reply as her thoughts drifted back to Byakuya and the packet of pills.
"Rukia, are you even listening?" Ichigo asked, annoyed.
Rukia broke out of her thoughts as she gave Ichigo a quick smile.
"I have to go," Rukia replied hastily as she made her way to the exit. "I'll see you soon, alright?"
And before Ichigo could give a reply, Rukia had rushed out of the hospital and bundled herself into Byakuya's limo as it headed straight to his residence.
Rukia prayed that Byakuya had just taken the pills in a moment of folly, but she highly doubted that. Before she could pray for the forty-sixth time, the limo pulled to a stop and Rukia looked up to find herself in front of Byakuya's mansion.
She practically leapt out of the limo and hurried up the marble steps when she noticed a lady that looked older than Byakuya standing at the front doors. Rukia was a few steps behind the woman when the front doors opened just in time to reveal Byakuya.
The lady greeted Byakuya as she stepped in before Rukia.
"Rukia, this is Unohana-san, the family's doctor." Byakuya said and turned to Unohana and retrieved the packet of pills from his pocket.
Rukia almost gasped as she continued to stare as Byakuya handed the pills to Unohana.
"I need to find out what these pills are for." Byakuya said as Unohana took the pills from him.
Rukia widened her eyes as she quickly interrupted, "W-Why? The doctor already said that it'll cure me! What's more to know about?"
"I do not trust the doctor fully." Byakuya replied just as his mobile phone started ringing.
Byakuya reached for his phone from the breast pocket of his blazer and frowned at the screen.
"Wait for me in the study," Byakuya told Unohana. "I will be up in a moment."
Unohana nodded as she proceeded up the stairs as Byakuya answered the call. Rukia watched in horror as the woman disappeared up the stairs.
Deciding that she had to do something, Rukia ran up the stairs after Unohana when she spotted Byakuya looking away. She took two steps at a time and almost slipped due to the carpeted flooring but held on to the banister for support as she regained her balance and rushed towards the study. She watched as the door to the study close behind Unohana's white coat and Rukia went forward, heart thumping rapidly.
She raised her knuckles and knocked on the door and waited impatiently until she heard Unohana's voice drifting out.
"Come in," she said in a gentle voice.
Rukia slipped in and closed the door behind her as Unohana smiled at her.
"I figured you'll be coming up," The woman smiled. "You have something to tell me, don't you?"
Rukia flinched at the woman's words. "H-How did you know?"
Unohana simply smiled as she put the packet of pills on the table. "I'm sure Byakuya will be up very soon. If you have something to say, be quick."
Rukia's eyes widened as she struggled for a reply. Is this woman psychic?
"A-Actually, I trust the doctor so there is no need for you to run a test on them." Rukia replied.
"I am still going to run a test on them." The woman said firmly but gently.
Rukia looked at the woman in despair. She had to do something before Byakuya comes up!
"Unohana-san," Rukia began. "To be honest, these pills are not going to work on me. Because…"
"Because you are not sick," Unohana finished for her. "I can see that, Rukia-san."
Again, Rukia gaped at the woman and then blurted out before she could stop herself, "Are you psychic?"
Unohana simply smiled as she walked towards Rukia. "I am not but because of my experience in this field, I can tell that you are a well woman."
Rukia flush in embarrassment as Unohana stood in front of her, her eyes burning into hers.
"I have to ask, if you are not unwell, why do you have to lie to Byakuya?" Unohana asked seriously.
This time, there was no smile on her face and Rukia could see how scary she looked. She didn't seem unkind but when she spoke in such a serious tone, Rukia could feel her goose bumps rising.
"I…" Rukia struggled to reply but failed.
"Is this a ploy to harm Byakuya?" Unohana asked sharply.
"No!" Rukia replied quickly. "Of course not! I will never hurt him."
Unohana fell silent as she continued to scrutinise Rukia.
"Rukia-san," Unohana finally said. "You do know the consequences of betraying Byakuya, do you not?"
A shudder went through Rukia as she nodded numbly at Unohana's words.
"I have heard from Abarai-san so much about you. I believe you are a good person and it seems that you may be good for Byakuya."
Rukia held her breath just as Unohana continued, "I also know that you have saved Byakuya's life before so just this once, I will not disclose to Byakuya about the truth. I have no idea why you lied to Byakuya about this but do note that I will be keeping a close watch on you."
Rukia let out a breath she didn't even know she had been holding as she watched Unohana slip the packet of pills into the pocket of her white coat.
"Does this mean…?" Rukia asked uncertainly.
"Yes," Unohana replied. "Your secret is safe with me. I will simply tell Byakuya that there is nothing wrong with the pills but I have prescribed you something even better that will help you."
Rukia managed a weak smile as she replied, "Arigatou Gozaimasu, Unohana-san."
"Rukia-san, do not take my kindness as a form of weakness. I am only doing this because you have saved Byakuya's life and for that, I am grateful. I know how much this would hurt Byakuya if I were to tell him the truth and I think he doesn't need any of that. I do believe in second chances and hope that you do not lie to him anymore as his feelings for you are genuine. I will be keeping a close watch on you, Rukia-san." Unohana said seriously.
"H-Hai," was all Rukia could say as she stared at the woman in front of her.
"Good." Unohana said as she smiled serenely at Rukia once again and handed her a packet of pills.
"Arigatou, Unohana-san." Rukia replied.
"Oh, Byakuya also told me to give you this." Unohana said as she handed Rukia a bottle of pills.
Rukia's face displayed confusion as she accepted the bottle.
"These are contraceptive pills." Unohana said as Rukia felt her face grow hot and quickly pocketed the bottle.
The door of the study opened suddenly and Byakuya entered. His gaze fell on Rukia and then went back to Unohana.
"How did it go?" Byakuya asked as he walked towards them.
"The pills are fine," Unohana replied. "But I have prescribed Rukia-san pills of my own that will be more beneficial to her. Do not worry, she will be well in no time."
Rukia could see the worry disappear from Byakuya's eyes as he replied, "Arigatou, Unohana-san."
"I would like to suggest that if anyone isn't feeling well, please consult me first instead." Unohana said as she walked towards the door.
Rukia nodded as she understood the older woman's meaning behind her words. Unohana left them alone as she took her leave. Rukia could feel Byakuya's eyes on her as she pretended to be fixated on the floor. She felt nervous wondering if Byakuya had suspected a thing about her fake illness.
"Rukia," Byakuya called out as Rukia looked up at him, startled.
She watched as Byakuya walked over to her, closing the gap in between them as he claimed her lips. Rukia felt her legs quiver slightly as Byakuya's hand rested on the small of her back as he pressed her into his body. His kiss was hot and filled with relief and with so much passion, Rukia couldn't believe a stoic man like him could possess.
Rukia almost melted against him but the guilt in her heart decided to take over as she pushed him gently away. His eyes held slight confusion as he drew back but his hands were still on her waist, trapping her.
"Is something wrong?" he asked softly.
"U-Unohana-san," Rukia struggled to get the words out. "Do you trust her?"
"Yes." replied Byakuya immediately. "Why?"
Letting out a shaky breath, Rukia peeled her eyes away from Byakuya.
"Do you believe everything she says?" Rukia asked, already dreading the answer she knew that was coming.
"I do." Byakuya said firmly.
She could feel Byakuya's eyes on her as she continued to look away until she felt one of his hands leave her waist to tilt her chin up gently, making her impossible to look anywhere else but into his grey eyes.
"What happened?" She heard Byakuya ask as she stared into his eyes. "What did she say to you?"
His tone was very gentle but ever so curious as Rukia forced a smile, "Nothing, I was just curious as she seemed to care about you deeply."
Byakuya didn't seem to believe her as he stared into her eyes once again. Byakuya couldn't detect that she is lying, could he? Rukia knew she was being silly but that did not stop her hands from turning cold and clammy.
Finally, Byakuya drew back from her and Rukia sighed with relief mentally as she watched him relax once again.
"She took care of me just like a mother would," Byakuya explained. "My parents died when I was very young and my grandfather was a busy man."
Rukia felt her heart wrench in pain as she imagined a young Byakuya, feeling lost and alone after his parents were gone.
"I'm sorry," Rukia whispered as she took a step forward and embraced him.
Perhaps it was the fact that Rukia could understand, as she too, lost her parents at a tender age or maybe because she felt the guilt that had been weighing on her chest for months, Rukia felt tears leaking from her eyes as she tried her best to muffle her sobs.
"I'm sorry," she whispered again against his chest as she felt his hold on her tighten. "I'm sorry, truly sorry."
She felt Byakuya's hand on her hair, softly stroking as though comforting her and that small act of love from him made her all the more guiltier as she realised her apologies were not about his parents anymore. It was her apology to him for betraying his trust, for spying on him. And Rukia cried all the more harder.
"I am fine, am I not?" She heard Byakuya say.
"I know," Rukia said in between sobs as she finally looked up at him, her eyes watery. "But I'm still sorry and will always be."
Byakuya gazed at her in return, with curiosity and a hint of concern as Rukia stood on tip toes and kissed him softly on his lips.
"Just remember that I love you, okay?" Rukia murmured so softly against his lips, she wondered if he heard.
It didn't matter, Rukia decided, as his lips descended upon hers and she was immediately swept away by the intensity and love she felt from him.
Rukia awoke the next afternoon to the rumbling of her stomach only to realise that she had not eaten properly in days and her activities with Byakuya last night certainly must have burned out most of her energy.
They had made love in the study, on Byakuya's table and then he had suggested that they move to somewhere comfier and then she found herself on Byakuya's bed where they continued. Rukia blushed at her train of thought but quickly broke out of it as her stomach growled angrily again.
Realising that she was the only one in the room, she walked over to Byakuya's closet and picked out his Versace blue dress shirt and put it on.
"Rukia," she heard Byakuya call out as the door to his bedroom opened.
She whirled around to face him and his intense gaze made Rukia blush.
"You should wear my shirts more often," Byakuya said as he closed the door behind him, his eyes gleaming playfully.
His comment made her laugh as he walked towards her.
"You seem to like this shirt." Byakuya said as he nuzzled her neck.
Rukia smiled as she tilted her head back to give him more access. "I guess I do."
"Good taste." Byakuya murmured against her skin.
"Are you complimenting yourself too since this is your shirt?" Rukia asked, grinning.
She felt Byakuya smirk against her neck.
Their actions were soon interrupted by Rukia's stomach as it growled in protest again. Rukia flushed as Byakuya withdrew himself from her, his expression amused. Taking her hand in his, he led her out of the bedroom, down the spiral stairs and finally to the dining hall.
Rukia's eyes widened at the feast before her as she took her seat next to Byakuya. Everything looked so mouth-watering! From the éclairs to the little fruit tarts and Rukia's eyes widened when she noticed a plate of eggs in front of her. She looked over and realised that Byakuya had none and she raised her eyebrows questioningly.
"Is this specially for me?" Rukia asked.
"Yes." came Byakuya's reply. "Eat whatever you like or if you wish for something else, the chef is in the kitchen ready to prepare whatever you want."
Rukia's eyes widened. Is this what it is like to be Kuchiki Byakuya's girlfriend? To live like a princess and be pampered and spoilt by him?
"I don't think we can finish this all," replied Rukia, her eyes back on the ridiculous amount of food laid out.
"There is no need to." Byakuya said.
Picking up the fork, Rukia finished her plate of delicious eggs and she sank her teeth into an éclair as she watched Byakuya eating with such grace; his mouth closing around the fork as he chewed slowly with his food. Her cheeks coloured as she was suddenly aware how unsightly she must have looked as she gobbled up her food.
Byakuya didn't seem to notice her lack of grace as his eyes poured over the newspaper. His eyes frowned when he reached a certain article and he stood up abruptly, startling Rukia.
"Is something wrong?" Rukia asked after she swallowed her food.
"No, nothing to worry about," Byakuya replied, his gaze flicking over to her. "I just need to make a quick phone call."
After he had exited the room, Rukia was suddenly aware of how little she was wearing as she shivered. She didn't even see her underwear around this morning and wondered where it had disappeared to. She was so caught off guard by Byakuya last night she didn't remember at which point her underwear had been taken off.
Leaving the dining hall, Rukia made her way upstairs to the study. She was about to step inside when she heard Byakuya talking on the phone. She peered in and although his back was facing her, she noticed the seriousness in his voice.
"The police will never find Hinako's body. I made sure of that." Byakuya said to the person over the phone. "There is no evidence that I had killed him."
Rukia felt her blood turn cold as she gritted her teeth. She knew Byakuya probably have killed before but hearing those words from his lips, sent a shiver down Rukia's spine. To hear him speak of something like that so casually… like it didn't mean anything to him... Rukia wanted to run back to the dining hall, back to all the food and pretend that this didn't happen but her legs were rooted to the ground.
"I will need you to be prepared tonight, Renji." Byakuya continued. "The meeting with Aizen tonight might not be as simple as we thought."
Renji seemed to be arguing with Byakuya over the line as Byakuya's eyes flashed angrily as he replied, "I know what I am doing. Just do as I say."
And with that, Byakuya hung up the phone. Rukia almost broke into a run back to the dining hall but stopped when she noticed Byakuya going to his desk and retrieved a gun from his drawer. Stifling a gasp, Rukia watched him tuck the weapon into his blazer, his expression grim.
What was happening tonight? Why does he need a gun? Is he planning to kill again? Will Byakuya be safe? The last thought rattled Rukia and she realised that that was the most important to her right now. Tonight, something is going to happen and Rukia felt sickened as she let herself sink to the carpeted floor. She should stop him. But what could she do?
"Rukia," His voice startled her as she jerked in surprise.
He was standing in front of her kneeling form, concerned. "Are you feeling unwell?"
He helped her up and Rukia struggled to reply, "N-No, I'm fine. I just… just…"
One of his eyebrows arched as he waited for her answer.
"I just had a cramp," Rukia replied, her voice barely a whisper.
Byakuya stared at her for a moment as though doubting her words but said nothing.
"Let's go out tonight," Rukia blurted out. "Let's have dinner together."
Byakuya's eyes displayed slight surprise at her suggestion. "I am afraid I have something on. What about tomorrow?"
Rukia knew she was starting to look odd and she tried to calm herself down. "How about later? We can take a walk in the park and feed the ducks."
Byakuya stared at her for a moment and Rukia wasn't sure if she saw the desperation in her eyes or something else but he finally gave a nod.
"Why not," he replied. "But I have to leave at five."
"Okay," Rukia said as she breathed a sigh of relief. "You bring the bread and I'll meet you there in an hour."
"Bread?" Byakuya echoed, his eyes widening slightly.
"Bread to feed the ducks of course." Rukia replied.
It was obvious Byakuya had never fed anything or anyone in his life before and he gave a nod reluctantly.
Rukia rushed into his study and grabbed her clothes from last night and quickly shut the doors behind her as she changed quickly. She knew that Byakuya would leave at five and between now and five, she still had three hours to come up with a plan to make him ditch his plans for tonight.
Swiping her coat off the ground and putting it on, Rukia opened the doors to find Byakuya still standing there, his eyes transfixed on her.
"Are you leaving?" he asked.
Nodding, Rukia replied, "I'm going home to shower and I'll meet you there in an hour."
"You can always shower here." Byakuya replied.
"But I'll need a fresh change of clothes." replied Rukia.
"I will have Sato send you home." Byakuya replied as he sent a text to his chauffer.
"Okay, see you later." Rukia said as she rushed down the stairs almost tripping in the process.
She opened the main doors to find Byakuya's limo waiting outside for her and she quickly bundled herself into the car as it sped off.
Byakuya stared at her figure from the top of the stairs until the doors closed behind her. He could not believe he had actually agreed to go to the park and feed the ducks with her. He doesn't hate ducks nor is he particularly fond of them but the usual Byakuya would never be caught dead feeding those blasted creatures. What would the people from the Yakuza say? His reputation was too important. But as soon as Byakuya saw how her eyes pleaded him to do something so simple with her, he gave in. How could he refuse that look from her?
Byakuya's thoughts turned to his meeting with Aizen tonight and his gaze turned hard instantly. Aizen was a powerful Yakuza in Japan and Byakuya had heard so much about him. How clever he is and how ruthless he can be. Byakuya had never crossed paths with him as Aizen ruled the turfs in Okinawa and hardly stepped foot in Tokyo. But now Aizen had offered him information that he needs; information that he had been searching for such a long time. He couldn't just turn away. He knew that there will be a price to pay and it will most possibly be his turfs.
It was an hour later and Byakuya got out of his limo as he ordered Sato to wait for him further down the road. Byakuya walked towards the park and found Rukia standing in the deserted park, blowing puffs of air into her hands. He wondered why she would suggest a walk in the park as most people avoid such places in the winter, preferring to seek warmth in coffee houses and such.
He walked towards her and when she turned and noticed him, she smiled and waved him over.
"Here." Byakuya said as he thrust the bread into her hands.
Rukia looked at the bread, satisfied, as she walked towards the huge pond. The ice has melted, indicating that winter was soon coming to an end to make way for spring. A few ducks were standing by the pond and Byakuya watched as Rukia walked over, bread in hand. The ducks seemed frightened at her sudden presence as they backed away uncertainly.
"See, it's just bread." Rukia said as she stretched her palm which had small crumbs of bread on it.
The ducks peered curiously as one bravely waddled over to her hand, inspecting.
"Here, have some." Rukia coaxed as the duck started eating from Rukia's hand.
Byakuya watched in silence a few feet away from her. Rukia was kind and Byakuya wondered how someone as kind as her could love someone as ruthless as him.
Byakuya watched as Rukia turned to him gleefully, waving him over. "The ducks trust me now! Come over!"
Byakuya almost wanted to laugh at how she reminded him of a child but only let out a small smile as he walked over. He tucked his hands into his coat pockets as he watched the ducks quack noisily around Rukia as she laughed. Yes, having Rukia in his life is good. Just by staring at her and hearing her laughter is enough to make him forget his heavy responsibilities and burdens as a Yakuza leader.
The last bit of bread was finally gone and Rukia stood up, brushing her hands on her coat as the ducks waddled away.
"You didn't feed them." Rukia said somewhat reproachfully.
"I prefer to watch you do it." Byakuya said honestly as Rukia's cheeks reddened.
They walked in comfortable silence, away from the pond when Rukia suddenly pulled him under a tree and sat down.
"Sit," She said as she tugged his wrist as Byakuya raised his eyebrows. "Let's talk."
"You are aware that the ground is dirty, right?" Byakuya asked, staring at her sitting form.
"Oh, your clothes can't get dirty." Rukia realised, as she stood back up.
Byakuya's phone interrupted them as he excused himself to take the call, not noticing the disappointment in Rukia's eyes.
Rukia watched as he walked away from her, talking into his phone. She let out a heavy sigh as she took out her phone and checked her texts. She knew she had some from Matsumoto but she was so occupied with the ducks and Byakuya before, she didn't have time to check. Plus, her brain was still working up a plan to make Byakuya ditch his plans for tonight.
Rukia opened the texts from Matsumoto and as she read, she blanched.
Where are you? Call me.
Why aren't you picking up? Need to talk to you about something very important.
Call me, Rukia! It's about tonight! Something might happen to K.B!
K.B… Kuchiki Byakuya? Frantically, Rukia dialled Matsumoto's number as her eyes remained on Byakuya's tiny figure. Good, it seemed like he wasn't done with his call.
Matsumoto picked up on the third ring and Rukia blurted out, "What's happening to him tonight?"
"Rukia, I'm not supposed to tell you this but since you seem to love him very much, I have to," Matsumoto replied in a hush tone. "He might be in danger tonight."
"It's the meeting with Aizen, isn't it?" Rukia whispered as she clutched to her phone so tightly, her fingers had gone white.
"We have inside info that Aizen might kill him tonight. He has been eyeing Kuchiki's turfs for quite some time." Matsumoto replied.
"Can't the police do something about it?" Rukia heard herself croak out.
"We can't." She heard Matsumoto say regretfully. "The police are not supposed to interfere much with the Yakuza unless it involves the citizens."
"B-But Byakuya may die…"
She heard Matsumoto sigh on the other end of the line, "I know, Rukia, but you have to know that the police doesn't care about that."
Rukia felt her head spin and the sudden urge to throw up as one of her hand came to rest on her forehead. She glanced to where Byakuya was standing and thankfully, he was still on the phone.
"Rukia, you there?" Matsumoto asked. "Do what you have to do, Rukia, but please don't put yourself in any danger, okay?"
Rukia simply nodded, forgetting that Matsumoto couldn't see.
"Thanks," Rukia managed to choke out. "I'll try to stop him from going."
Without waiting for Matsumoto's reply, Rukia hung up, just in time to see Byakuya walking back to her.
"Are you sick?" Byakuya asked as he approached.
Shaking her head quickly, Rukia pleaded, "Can't you skip your plans for tonight?"
"Why?" Byakuya asked.
Rukia could see that he was getting suspicious of her behaviour but she didn't care. She couldn't let him get hurt especially when she knew what might happen tonight.
"What's so important?" Rukia asked, her tone pleading. "Can't you reject the person? You have the power to do so, isn't it?"
"It does not work that way." Byakuya replied patiently. "The man I'm meeting tonight is not one to be trifled with."
"So why are you meeting him since he's dangerous?"
"I will be fine." Byakuya replied as he took her hand and led her out of the park.
Byakuya's limo came into view and Rukia felt herself growing sicker by the second. She knew that it was due to the news Matsumoto had delivered to her that was making her head throb and her stomach churn in the most unpleasant of ways.
"On second thought, I don't think I'm feeling well." Rukia said as she deliberately walked slower. "Maybe we can head back to your place?"
She could see concern in Byakuya's eyes as he entered the limo after her.
Closing the door, Byakuya instructed his driver, "Swing by Unohana-san's place."
"What?" Rukia gasped, panic evident in her voice.
"She can get you checked." Byakuya replied simply.
"I'm sure I'll be fine after a good sleep," Rukia said, frantically. "Really, I'm feeling slightly better already!"
Shit, shit, shit. Now she really could feel the urge to throw up just thinking of Unohana's stern gaze on her.
"I'm really feeling better," repeated Rukia loudly.
"Are you certain?" Byakuya asked.
Nodding furiously, Rukia forced a smile on her face as Byakuya finally wiped the sceptic look off his face. Byakuya then instructed his driver to drop him off outside a club in Kabukicho, Shinjuku.
"Can't you not go?" she pleaded again, as she poked her head out of the tinted window.
"No, this is important," Byakuya replied.
"Well, can't I come with you then?" Rukia asked.
She knew she was sounding needy but she didn't care. Something might happen to Byakuya and it sickens her that she cannot warn him about it.
"Kabukicho is not very safe for you at night, Rukia." Byakuya replied patiently. "And you are not allowed to attend my business meetings with me."
"Why not?"
Ignoring her question, Byakuya stuck his head in the window and ordered his driver to send Rukia back home. Before Rukia could say another word, the window was back up and she watched Byakuya enter the club helplessly.
As a policewoman, of course Rukia knows that Kabukicho is not a safe place for women to go in the evenings and especially after dark. Love hotels and sleazy bars and clubs are common and prostitutes are not a rare sight. Many Yakuza members frequented the area. Rukia was certain that the club Byakuya has entered must belong to Aizen and fear gripped her as she realised that Byakuya didn't have anyone with him. No guards, no Renji. He was walking into a lion's den alone.
"Stop the car," Rukia cried out in a shaky voice as the limo came to a stop.
Sato, the driver turned back to look at Rukia, "Is anything wrong, Rukia-sama?"
"I need to buy something from one of the shops. J-Just wait for me here." Rukia replied as she got off the car.
Breaking into a run, Rukia ignored the looks of passers-by as she streaked past them. She reached the front of the club and turning around to check that Sato was still in the limo and not spying on her, Rukia made her way into the club.
The loud pounding music filled her ears as Rukia pushed past the dancing crowd and raked her eyes around, in search of an office or a VIP room. Noticing a small passageway beside the bathrooms, Rukia made her way over and discovered that the VIP rooms were located here. The loud music from the dance floor was getting softer and softer as Rukia walked along the empty corridor.
Flattening herself against a wall, Rukia peeked and saw Byakuya standing outside a room with a man in spectacles.
"You're early, Kuchiki-san," The spectacled man said politely.
Byakuya said nothing and the man smiled, "Perhaps we should talk inside."
The two men then disappeared into the room and the door shut behind them.
Scowling, Rukia looked around and noticed a door at the end of the corridor. Rushing to the door, she opened it slowly to find that it leads to a back alley. Rukia slipped out and after pacing around frustrated, she noticed a small window above her.
Rukia jumped and craned her neck and to her amazement, she realised that the window belonged to the room where Byakuya was in. She managed to catch a glimpse of him and she landed back on the ground.
Looking around, Rukia noticed a few boxes and she quickly pushed them over and climbed on top of them. Clutching on to the small window, Rukia peered in.
She could see Byakuya seated in the huge room on one of the sofa and the spectacled man was opposite him on the other sofa. Beside the spectacled man was a girl. She looked young, just like Rukia, and from how she was sitting so closely to the spectacled man, Rukia reckoned they must be lovers.
She couldn't hear them but Rukia can see that the other men in suits in the room didn't seem pleased to see Byakuya. They should all be Aizen's men. Is Aizen the spectacled man as he was the only one sitting down?
"Well, well, well, what do we have here?" an oily voice interrupted Rukia as she stumbled and fell to the ground with a crash.
Rukia looked up and noticed a fat man in a suit leering down at her, looking extremely happy that he had found her.
"Spying on Aizen-sama, are you?" The man said as he grabbed Rukia roughly by the elbow and pulled her up.
"Let go!" Rukia said as she tried to pull away from the man's grasp.
It was useless as the grip only tightened.
"You a whore?" The man asked, eyeing Rukia as though she was a slab of meat.
"No!" snapped Rukia.
"Then someone must have sent you to spy on Aizen-sama," The man said as he dragged Rukia towards the back door of the club.
"No one sent me, let me go!" screeched Rukia as she kicked him with all her might.
Again, it was useless as the man simply dragged her back into the club and to Rukia's horror, he was in front of the room Byakuya is in and he knocked and entered.
"Sorry to intrude, Aizen-sama, but look what we found skulking at the back alley…" The man said in satisfaction.
Rukia looked up and saw Byakuya's eyes flash angrily at her as the spectacled man who seemed to be Aizen, eyed her with interest.
"And who might you be?" Aizen asked as he advanced forward.
Rukia felt the grip on her elbow loosened and realised that the fat man had released his hold on her.
"I was just passing by." Rukia replied indignantly.
"Are you really?" Aizen asked, his eyes boring into hers and Rukia shuddered.
Nodding, Rukia turned away from him. She could see the fury in Byakuya's eyes as he stared at her from where he was sitting. The girl who was sitting with Aizen before looked at her curiously.
"As you know, I have a guest right now so perhaps we will talk later." Aizen said and then motioned to the fat man. "Tie her up and I will speak to her later."
The fat man smiled in glee and was about to grab Rukia when a voice from the room spoke.
"Stop."
Everyone turned to see Byakuya walking over as he pulled Rukia over to his side protectively.
"She is not spying on anyone. She is with me." Byakuya said.
"Ah, I see," Aizen replied. "Then I guess there is no problem. Have a seat then."
The fat man's face fell as he shuffled out of the room, clearly understanding that there was no need for him anymore.
Rukia noticed the look of interest on Aizen's face as he stared from Byakuya to her and it was starting to make her feel uncomfortable.
"Someone special?" Aizen asked, his question directed at Byakuya.
"Maybe we should get back to business." Byakuya replied coolly as he pulled Rukia to sit beside him.
"Very well then," Aizen replied with a smile.
There were about six men in the room and Rukia realised that they all seemed to be Aizen's men. Worry flickered in Rukia as her gaze drifted to the girl next to Aizen. Her hair was in a bun and she was dressed decently. She didn't look like a hostess and Rukia wondered if this girl perhaps was just an ordinary girl who fell in love with a member of the Yakuza.
"I heard that you just acquired a new turf." Aizen said, smiling.
"I have. What about it?" Byakuya asked.
"I was thinking if the Kuchiki group is interested to merge with the Sousuke group." Aizen replied, his smile stretching further as he leaned back against the sofa.
"And why would you want that?" Byakuya asked. "Isn't Sousuke group doing very well on its own?"
"It is. But we can do even better if we merge with the Kuchiki group. This will benefit you too. We can dominate Japan with both of our strengths and emerge as the strongest clan in the country. What do you say?"
There was a slight pause from Byakuya and then he replied, "I appreciate the offer but I would have to decline."
"I told you I have information, don't I?" Aizen said as he handed a thick brown envelope to Byakuya. "You can have all of this in exchange for what I want."
Rukia watched as Byakuya stared at the envelope. She could see in his eyes that he was conflicted.
Standing up and holding Rukia's hand firmly in his, Byakuya gave a curt nod to Aizen. "I will have to decline the offer."
Aizen stood up and nodded, "No problem."
Rukia could hear something off with Aizen's voice and in an instant, she noticed Aizen's hand moving swiftly into his pants pocket and he whipped out a revolver.
"Gun!" she cried out as she pushed Byakuya away as a gun shot rang out loud and clear.
It was as though hell had suddenly broke loose as the girl in the bun was suddenly screaming and Rukia watched in horror as the six men all whipped their guns out and pointed straight at Byakuya. Byakuya was already holding his gun and before anyone could react, Byakuya had grabbed the girl in the bun and was pointing the gun straight at her head.
"Drop your guns," Byakuya ordered as the girl shrieked.
Rukia's eyes widened as she stuck close to Byakuya. She was feeling bad for the girl but there wasn't any choice. There were seven men against Byakuya.
The six men dropped their weapons immediately but Aizen's grip on his gun remained firm.
"Let us go and she remains safe." Byakuya said.
"Shoot her if you must." Aizen smirked as the girl's eyes widened. "But I want you dead, Kuchiki."
"A-Aizen-sama…" The girl pleaded, desperate to be free from Byakuya's grasp.
Her pleas seemed to fall on deaf ears as Aizen continued, "You have no heir, Kuchiki, so after you die, your turfs will belong to me. Go on, shoot her, I don't care."
"Aizen-sama!" The girl cried out.
Rukia felt her mouth go dry as she watched the girl cry helplessly.
"Isn't she your girlfriend?" Rukia asked in anger as she watched Aizen's cold gaze on the crying girl.
"Does it matter?" Aizen replied smoothly as the girl sobbed harder. "Nothing is going to stand in my way to acquire more turfs. Not her, that filth."
He spoke of that last word with such venom that Rukia flinched.
"Go on, Kuchiki, shoot her," Aizen replied. "If you don't, then I will."
Before anyone could reply, another gun shot rang out and Rukia watched as Byakuya let the girl's body fall to the ground in a heap.
Rukia watched in horror as Aizen merely smiled at the dead girl, "Finally, out of the way. Fucking noisy cunt."
He had shot her. Rukia had expected that if anyone were to pull the trigger on the girl, it would be Byakuya but Aizen had clearly beaten him to it.
Rukia noticed that there was no expression on Byakuya's face as he ignored the dead girl at his feet. The men in the room had their guns pointing at Byakuya again and Rukia realised that there was no way Byakuya could win.
Aizen's eyes drifted over to Rukia lazily as he smirked, "Would you like me to kill you first, Kuchiki, or her?"
"This has nothing to do with her," Byakuya replied, his gun still firm in his grip.
"Really…" Aizen smiled. "Hitoshi Rukia, right? I heard the things you have done for her, Kuchiki. Taking the risk of waging a war with Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez because of her. She must be very special for you to have done that."
"I was only repaying her for saving my life." Byakuya replied, in a matter of fact tone. "She is nothing to me."
Although Rukia knew that Byakuya didn't mean the words he just said, she couldn't help but still feel the slight ache in her chest.
"Well, how about we test that theory?" Aizen smirked and signalled one of his men over. "I'll be taking her with me, Kuchiki, and I'll let you live for now. I might be able to gain more in return if you become my puppet."
Rukia watched Byakuya with widened eyes and she caught a brief flicker of fear pass his eyes. She had never seen that from him before and wasn't sure if the dim lights from the room were just playing tricks on her eyes.
"I have told you, she is nothing to me," Byakuya repeated coldly. "Just let her go and let us settle this between ourselves."
"I think not, Kuchiki. But let us see, shall we? You can have the information you want, in exchange for Hitoshi Rukia." Aizen smiled.
"No." came Byakuya's immediate reply.
"Really? So, Hitoshi Rukia is much more important than Sakuya-san?" Aizen replied, his grin growing wider.
Rukia flinched as she stared at Aizen then at Byakuya. What has Sakuya got to do with this?
Aizen seemed to have noticed her surprise as he walked over to her slowly. His gun was still pointing directly at Byakuya.
"Do not take another step." Byakuya warned as the barrel of his gun pointed directly on Aizen's forehead.
Aizen stopped in his tracks and smiled, "So, she means something to you after all. But I don't understand, isn't these the information you wanted?"
Rukia watched as Aizen lowered his gun and picked up the hefty envelope on the table.
"Everything you want to know about Sakuya is in here." Aizen continued. "How she disappeared, where she is now… and whether she is now dead… or alive."
Byakuya was silent and Rukia felt a stab in her heart as she felt her eyes grow hot. She was foolish thinking that Byakuya had let go of Sakuya but it doesn't seem to be the case. He was still looking for Sakuya.
"You can have the information, Kuchiki. In exchange, I'll have Hitoshi Rukia, how about it?"
"No," replied Byakuya firmly again.
"Then I might have no choice but to kill you and take over your turfs." Aizen smiled wickedly.
"Do what you must then," Byakuya said. "But you cannot touch Rukia."
Rukia saw Aizen's eyes widened. "How impressive… I have no choice I guess… Farewell Kuchi-
"Wait," Rukia interrupted suddenly as Byakuya and Aizen stared at her. "I'll go with you. Leave Byakuya alone."
Aizen's eyebrows lifted in surprise but his smile widened.
"Rukia," Byakuya stared at her. There was so much anger in his eyes and Rukia quickly shifted her eyes back to Aizen.
"Take me and leave Byakuya alone. That's the deal, right?" Rukia asked firmly.
Pleased with the sudden turn of events, Aizen nodded. "Yes, that's right."
"Rukia, do not be foolish," Byakuya warned, this time the anger evident in his voice.
"The information must be very important, right?" Rukia replied, trying to stifle the hurt that was seeping from her voice.
Byakuya ignored her question and replied, "This is foolish. You are not going anywhere with them."
"You don't have to die if I go with them," said Rukia. "And I'm sure they'll let me go after a while."
"That's right, listen to her, Byakuya," Aizen grinned. "Once she has done her part, we'll let her go."
Byakuya's gaze hardened as Rukia looked away. Rukia knew that putting herself in this situation was stupid but what else could she do? They were going to kill Byakuya and she couldn't let that happen. Aizen didn't say that he was going to kill her, even if he was, it wasn't going to happen right away so she still has a chance of escaping.
"Let's go then," Aizen called out to his men and one of them grabbed Rukia by the arm and dragged her out of the room.
A/N: Ok, I think most of you will really want to kill me now. But it's none of their faults, okay? Byakuya didn't know Rukia was going to turn up and all Rukia wanted to do was to save Byakuya. Let's just say that they just have rotton luck, shall we?
Anyway, let me know what you think... so review! Til then!