Hi everyone, first off- wow seeing all the love this story is getting feels unreal! Thank you so much!

Now, I'm gonna give some trigger warnings here even though some are in the description.

There are mentions of non-consensual stuff and physical abuse. So if that is a trigger I urge you to skip it.

It is also my first smut, so I really do apologize if it's... eh cringy. S/o to @Pr1nceV1nc3 (ao3 tag) for the help :)

As always enjoy!

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Orihime raced into the house with the letter hidden under her dress and tucked into the elastic band of her bra. Upon entering the house, Ichigo wrapped his arm around her waist, bringing her close to his body. He placed sweet and desired-filled kisses down her neck. His hands began softly caressing her delicate curves. She was startled by the sudden movement of his hands. Orihime pulled away from his body, hoping he did not feel what was hidden under her clothing.

"What's the matter?" Ichigo asked with a confused stare. Orihime seemed like something was bothering her. Had something happened when he was gone? Her odd behavior dumbfounded Ichigo.

"I-I-I have to pee! Y'know what they say, you have to pee before sex to avoid bladder infections!" Orihime answered; her words were coming out quicker than she could think of them. Ichigo's brow raised at her answer.

"Orihime, that's after you have sex?" Ichigo responded. Orihime could feel drops of sweat starting to form. "WHAT TO DO? WHAT TO DO?" Her head cried out in distress.

"Orihime? Did something happen while I was gone?" Ichigo asked with concern in his voice. "HE'S ONTO ME!" Her thoughts raced again. She could be "semi-honest" with him.

"Nothing happened. I'm just a little sad, that's all." Orihime answered, looking down at the ground. She wasn't lying; she was sad... about keeping secrets from him.

"Oh, well, do you want to talk about it? I promise you can talk to me about anything hime."

Ichigo offered his arms, wrapping around her waist and resting his chin on her head. Orihime looked back at him. She felt her guilt worsen. He would be devastated if he found out.

"No! It's ok! You are here, and that's all that matters."

Orihime reassured him, giving him a loving look. Ichigo gave a soft and relieved smile.

"I gotta go get the laundry." Orihime finished, moving from his hold.

"Don't keep me waiting too long, now." Ichigo winked, walking up the stairs. Orihime gave him a loving smile as she watched him go up.

She was relieved he was gone. All she had to do was figure out where to hide the letter. She walked back into the laundry room, shutting the door behind her. She grabbed the letter tucked between her undergarment. She stared at the paper and felt her mind begin to wander. Orihime wondered what was waiting for her in the envelope. No, she was not supposed to be curious. That is wrong. She does not want to open it. That is what she convinced herself as she looked for a good place to hide it. The only good hiding spot for the letter would be hidden under the fake plant on the top shelf.

"This is perfect! I'll keep it there just for tonight, and when Ichigo is asleep, I'll just rip the paper it tiny shreds and throw it away!"

Orihime thought to herself. She grabbed the small step ladder and began to climb up. Standing on her the tips of her toes, she lifted the vase and hid the letter underneath.

With the step ladder back in its original spot and the laundry in the basket, Orihime made her way up the stairs hoping the letter would not be found. Walking into the shared bedroom, she saw her boyfriend dressed in a white v-neck shirt and grey sweatpants lying comfortably on the fluffy white bed. Orihime placed the basket of clean clothes beside the footboard and joined him in bed.

She snuggled beside him, laying her head down on his chest. Moments like this one she cherished the most. The moments they spent together, not talking or doing anything but enjoying each other's presence. She still couldn't stop thinking about the letter and the man who sent it to her.

Her thoughts saddened again. She was guilty of sneaking a peek on his profile page a few times after the slumber party. She could not help it. He was insanely attractive, while Ichigo could only be described as prince charming. Ulquiorra, though? That man was on a different level. She felt her mind begin to think of what could happen if she were to write back. Her face wore a look of melancholy. She was supposed to be happy with Ichigo. So why did she feel like this? Why did she feel like something was missing? Ichigo looked down and noticed the change in her mood.

"You ok?" Ichigo asked. He watched as Orihime got up from her previous position. It took her a moment to give him an answer.

"Yeah! I'm fine! I was just thinking about how much I hate when you leave!" Orihime lied. She could not call it a complete lie, perhaps a half-truth! Because yes, she did miss him, but that was not what got her feeling this way, so she is not really lying. She's giving a half-truth!

"Well, I'm not going anywhere, and I'm all yours." He answered sweetly. Any sad feelings she had were now gone and replaced with arousal. Those words and the sound of his voice could bring her to her knees. Their eyes locked before exchanging a passionate kiss. Her delicate hands run through his hair. Pulling him closer, she lays down on the bed, tightening the grip on his hair and urging him to continue in their heated make-out session. He felt himself harden as her hands ran down his neck.

His body presses against hers as they continue in their steamy kiss. His hands quickly unfasten the buttons on her dress. Ichigo's hands cupped both breasts before aggressively yanking the garment off her. Ichigo breaks from the kiss for a moment to remove the clothes off of his own body. Quickly tossing his t-shirt and sweatpants, he begins to leave a trail of wet kisses down her neck.

Orihime let's out ah's of pleasure. Before she can say anything, she feels his fingers move down her shaking hips. He begins to toy with her wet panties, his fingers teasing her soaked and aching entrance.

"M-more, keep going, Ichigo." Orihime begs. She felt so deprived and in need of release. Her eyes flutter as her legs shake even more.

He loved knowing only he could get her to this point. He loved seeing her fall apart in front of him. He loved knowing she was all his and that no one else could have this effect on her. He loved hearing her beg for more of him.

"Do you like when I tease you like this?" His words dripped like honey as his fingers ran up and down her soaked panties.

"Y-yes, keep going! Please, I-"

She couldn't even bring herself to use her words. She was a mess at this point. It had been so long since the two had an actual sexual encounter. She had been in desperation for real touch and passion-filled sex.

Ichigo said nothing; instead, he pulled off her lace panties. His devious fingers began rubbing her delicate pink bud. Orihime's eyes shot open at the sudden motion. Her moans became much louder with each touch. His fingers then entered her aroused body. Finally, Ichigo's fingers began pumping inside of her.

"T-that feels so good!" Orihime cried out. Ichigo needed more. He needed more power over her than he already possessed. This wasn't enough for him. He wanted to make it known that she would be his and his only. No other man could ever bring her to this point; only he could.

Without warning, Ichigo slid his fingers quickly out of her. He sucked the sweet-tasting juices that covered his fingers. Orihime used her elbows to help get herself up. An almost sinister smile forms on his face, looking into her eyes and admiring her body. Orihime wondered why he just stood there.

"Huh-" Before she could ask, she felt his fingers wrap around her neck and press into her flesh painfully. He pushed her against the mattress, not letting go of her. She cried out in pain. She felt herself struggling for air. Her body froze in complete shock. What in the hell was he doing? He was never been this rough with her before.

"I-I-Ichigo, it hurts-" Orihime struggled to let the words out. He ignored her protests. He positioned himself at her entrance. Quickly using his free hand to remove the grey boxers from him, he shoved his length inside her core. He began roughly thrusting inside her body. Orihime screamed. Her boyfriend continued ignoring her cries.

"Ichigo! Stop! Stop! You're hurting me!" She begged, her breath becoming labored and tears filling her eyes as he continued going inside her, ramming into her cervix deeper than he had ever gone before. She began pushing him off of her. Ichigo stopped instantly. He removes himself from her and lets go of his grip. Orihime inhaled shakily, her head pounding and spinning as oxygen rushed into her again. She began to cry even more from the pain she was left with.

"Orihime, I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to hurt you." Ichigo said as he tried to lay next to her. Orihime turned her body away from his in defense.

"Why hurt me then? Why keep going when I said stop the first time?" Orihime answered, still struggling with her breathing, tears falling from her eyes.

"I guess I didn't hear you. I'm really sorry, Orihime. You know I would never do anything to hurt you." Ichigo responded, gently kissing her head. Orihime jumped in fear from the contact. It confused her. What made him so rough with her? What possessed him to lay his hands on her like that? Orihime was too frazzled to figure out what had just happened and why he acted the way he did.

"I'm going to be right back. I need to use the bathroom."

Orihime spoke quitely. She grabbed the white shirt from the ground and put it on as she got out of bed. Ichigo threw his head back and sighed in defeat as he watched Orihime walk into the bathroom. Orihime could barely walk. Upon closing the door behind her, she looked at her reflection. Her neck was red from the pressure. Her cheeks were swollen, and she began to feel her head pound. Reaching for the faucet, she turned the cold water on, filling the clean glass cup beside the sink with water; she grabbed the painkiller in the medicine cabinet. She swallowed the red tablets. She made her way out of the bathroom and back to bed.

The time passed as the couple stayed in bed. Orihime watched tv while Ichigo read. The two did not talk or look at each other. An awkward silence filled the room as the hour passed by. The sun had already set at this point. Ichigo decided to break the ice between them.

"It's getting late. Are you hungry? If you'd like, I'll order us something." Ichigo offered. Orihime paused her show. She got up from bed, deciding she wanted to shower before dinner.

"Uh-" She stuttered, looking away from him. Ichigo instantly became frustrated with her. In his mind, she was taking what had gone way too seriously. He hated how she dared to use her words and actions to make him out to be someone so cruel.

"You're taking what happened way too fucking serious, and I said I was sorry!" He argued. Orihime was taken back by his sudden outburst. She wasn't mad at him or anything like that! She was just tired, that was all.

"Ichigo, I didn't mean t-" Ichigo did not give her a chance to explain herself. Instead, he kept going, showing no care for anything she had to say.

"Shut up, you stupid cunt! You've been acting weird since I got back, and your no-talking bullshit is starting to piss me off!" Ichigo yelled, getting up from bed and getting closer to her. This was not Ichigo's usual temper. This was something way different. Orihime never saw him this upset before. Before he can get closer, she immediately gets up from the bed.

"Ichigo, please stop; you're scaring me, please!"

Orihime begged, holding back tears as she tried getting further away from him. Finally, Ichigo had her cornered against the wall. She looked into his eyes and saw nothing but empty and angered dark eyes staring back at hers.

"Oh! I'm scaring you? Since you love making me sound like I'm some douchebag boyfriend, I'll show you how scared of me you should be!"

He mocked, grabbing her by the arm, pinning her small frame to the wall. This had to be some kind of nightmare. Orihime was paralayzed in total fear. Seeing him show this kind of anger had her in total shock and disbelief. Before she could beg again, he delivered a hard and painful slap on her cheek. She was shocked by this sudden movement. She was met with a sudden burning and stinging sensation. All the tears she held in rushed out of her. Orihime sobbed hysterically. The sounds of her sobs instantly snapped Ichigo out of the rage spell he was in.

Ichigo instantly felt regret wash over him as he looked at her. She had never been this afraid before. He had just laid his hand on the woman he loved the most. He couldn't believe what came over him. He loosened the tight grip he had on her.

"O-Orihime I-" Ichigo was cut off by Orihime shoving him and quickly moved passed him. Her body trembled with so much anxiety that she couldn't bring herself to walk out of the room. She slumped down against the wall, hiding her face in her palms. Ichigo kneels, getting to her level.

Ichigo attempts to reach his hand out to move her hands from her face.

"Orihime I-"

"Just leave! Get away from me!"

Orihime cries out, swatting his hand away from her. Ichigo knew he fucked up, and there would be no way of getting through to her right now. Instead of trying to give her a reason for his actions...He leaves her there. Orihime was still in shock and disbelief at everything that had happened.

What hurt Orihime the most was that he left her there to cry instead of trying to make it up to her. Like an abandoned puppy, he just left her alone to cry and wonder how he could be so cruel to her.

One thousand miles away, Ulquiorra lays in his bed, reading a book he picked up from the prison's library. The book tells the story of a girl being taken away from home during war, only for the kidnapper to fall in love with his captive. While such a novel was not his first choice, Ulquiorra had read almost all the books in the library. So it was either waiting for the next shipment or settling with the only book he had yet to read. Surprisingly He took a liking to it.

The bright moon shined through the small window in his cell. Judging by how much light radiated, Ulquiorra assumed it was a super moon. He closed his book and looked out at the window. Nights like this were the only tolerable moments for him. The nights when the rest of the inmates would be fast asleep while he stood up. While Ulquiorra did not have much to be thankful for, the silence was something he appreciated dearly.

Ulquiorra looked at the night sky, taking in as much of its beauty as the tiny window closed-off window would allow him to.

His mind wandered to that same girl, Orihime Inoue. As silly as it was for him, he wondered if he would hear back from her. Had she received his letter yet?

"You don't even know this woman? Why are you asking yourself these questions?"

Ulquiorra thought to himself. It was useless to ponder on if she had heard from him or would reach out again. He continued gazing at the star-filled sky. The stars looked especially beautiful tonight. His then mind took a trip down memory lane.

Flashback

10 Years Ago

Loud music booms throughout the mansion walls, bodies pressed together, as the home filled with teens danced to the provocative music.

The aroma of cheap booze, pheromones, and vapor smoke filled the air of the party. Ulquiorra found himself tucked away in the corner of the hallway. He had enough of getting squashed by fellow party-goers and being followed by hormonal teenage girls basically throwing themselves at him. Parties weren't his thing. He knew a killer migraine awaited him when the party ended. His two assholes of brothers did not answer any of his texts. He assumed one was busy getting totally wasted with the crowds while the other was getting...

Well... I can't think of something clever- Eh, whatever, y-you get the point.

Anyways back to the story.

"Ayo! Ulquiorra!" A voice yelled from across the crowded halls. Ulquiorra turns his head around to find a classmate of his shuffling through the groups of people walking by him. A strange-looking guy with an odd smile and a pretty awful haircut. He was the last guy Ulquiorra wanted to run into.

"Hello, Shinji." Ulquiorra let out with a sign. Shinji gives Ulquiorra a what- the-hell-are-you-doing type of look.

"Why are you just sitting in the corner like some loser?" Shinji asked, taking a sip of the beer in his hand.

"I don't like parties." Ulquiorra explained in his usual monotone. Shinji let out a loud and very obnoxious laugh.

"Why come then?" You trying to mooch off of the free food and drinks?" Shinji mocked. Ulquiorra rolled his eyes.

"No- My brothers insisted on coming, and since none of them are able to drive legally yet, I had to take them." Ulquiorra answered, scrolling on his phone.

"Well, C'mon, dude! Don't be a stranger. Let's enjoy the party! There are so many hot women here!" Shinji grows a devious grin on his face.

"Please do not tell me you plan on making me join some orgy with you." Ulquiorra says with disgust.

"You ask too many questions, Cifer. Shut up and follow me! And, no, you sicko!" Shinji insists.

Ulquiorra knows that further protest is useless. Shinji is stubborn and does not take no for an answer. So Ulquiorra "follows" him with the intent of making some excuse and ditching him a few minutes after. The two walk down the stairs trying not to bump into the drunken people climbing up and down. It seems even more people have joined the party.

After pushing through the crowds, Ulquiorra finds himself in the formal living area turned into a make-shift nightclub. He notices Shinji is now gone. That's a relief. Ulquiorra looks around and decides maybe one drink won't hurt. He might as well enjoy his time here. So he makes his way to the bar to get a drink. Ulquiorra takes his place in line.

"Uh- I-can I get-uh?" The young girl in front stutters confusedly. One of the older boys in charge of making the drinks gives her an annoyed look as he waits for her to order her beverage of choice.

"Listen up, you stupid slut, either get something or get fucking lost. You're holding up the entire line. I don't got all night to wait on you!"

The bartender yells at her. He and the others working the bar all burst into laughter. The girl in front is shocked and startled by the words spat at her. Tears build in her eyes.

Ahh, the thing Ulquiorra despised the most. A douchebag, not just any douchebag, the entitled douchebag who thinks it is perfectly just to speak to a woman in a foul and derogatory way.

"Quite the gentlemen all of you are, making an innocent girl cry just because she is unsure what drink she wants. Since all of you lack any real experience with the opposite sex, allow me to give you a word of wisdom.

Getting rid of both that god-awful haircut and attitude might up your chances of getting laid."

Ulquiorra says coldly, stepping in front of the girl. The line was now staring and concealing their laughs.

"Whatcha said, smartass?" The bartender spits at Ulquiorra.

The attempt to be intimidating was the most pathetic thing he'd ever witnessed. Ulquiorra does not bother with acknowledging the guy.

Instead, he takes the girl's hand and escorts her away from the bar.

A blush appears quickly on her face. As the two walk further away.

"Are you ok?" He asks as the two stop at the main hallway. Taken out of her train of rushing thoughts, she looks up at him.

"Me? Oh- Uh, Yeah! I'm fine! Thank you for helping me out! I was just a little nervous. This is my first party! I wasn't sure what to order!"

She answers with a sniffle.

"There's no need to explain yourself. Don't let assholes like that speak to you that way." Ulquiorra answers. She cannot help but feel safe and protected by this unknown man. The two find the empty bench as they walk down the hallway.

"So, what is your name?" She asks as she tries to adjust the straps of her black heels. Obviously, she was not used to the drastic height of the shoe from the way she wobbled as she tried sitting on the bench next to him.

"Ulquiorra Cifer, I go to Las Noches High. What is your name?" He asks, standing up and allowing her to hold his hand for support. Her free arm slides behind her to flatten the back of her white dress mini before sitting.

"Oh, my name is Neliel! But my friends call me Nel!" She smiles.

Flashback ends

Ulquiorra wished things had not happened the way they did. He regretted ever meeting that girl. He wondered what life would've been like for him had their paths not crossed. Finally, Ulquiorra decided he had enough of reminiscing for the night. He laid his head down and closed his eyes, hoping the same nightmare would not come back to him again.

Orihime spent the rest of the night laying down in bed. She had cried every ounce of tears from her eyes. She had no idea how long Ichigo had been gone, for she did not care to check the clock or message him. She turned to a tv-show binge to help get her mind off of what happened midway through her favorite K-drama Texts and Chocolates.

Orihime's phone buzzed with messages from her group chat; grabbing the phone, she noticed the time read midnight. She had no idea it had gotten this late. She scrolled through her notifications finding the first text that had been sent. Seeing Rangikus's name and message, she tapped on the screen.

Rangiku : Hi! The invite is totally late at night, but I wanted to invite everyone to come wedding dress shopping with me!" Whoever wants to come LMK so I can let the store know how many people are in my party

Tatsuki : Of course! I'm off work this weekend. I'd love to join!

Rukia: Sure, I'm in

Momo: How exciting!! I'll be there!

Orihime let out a sigh. She felt sad from the messages. She was extremely happy for one of her closest and most special friends.

But, she could not but sometimes felt left out. Everyone in her and Ichigo's social circle had already gotten married or was engaged.

She wondered what stopped her boyfriend from marriage and why it seemed to upset him so much when she brought it up. All of his responses played in her mind.

"It's not the right time Orihime."

"Just because they're married doesn't mean we have to be."

"We're basically already married."

"I'm not ready yet."

Sometimes she wondered if she was just wasting her time. Did he really love her? Did he see her as the one? All of these questions her mind asked. Then, she was struck with the painful reminder of what had occurred just a few hours before. Orihime allowed her thoughts to continue racing until she remembered what Rangiku had mentioned at the sleepover.

"Now, now, settle down there, Tatsuki. We all know guys sometimes say stupid stuff in the heat of a moment."

A small but hopeful smile appeared on her face. Maybe guys also do stupid stuff in the heat of a moment, and well damn, that was a very heated moment.

"Maybe it was an accident, and I'm sure he didn't mean to!" Orihime reassures herself. Saying it felt good, but her heart still felt broken deep down. Maybe it would just take her some time to forgive him. It was too late, and Orihime did not feel like reading more messages sent in the chat. She would get back to Rangiku in the morning. By this time, she was hungry and decided she wanted to head to the kitchen to satisfy her sweet tooth.

As Orihime made her down the stairs, she was reminded that a specific letter was waiting for her. Orihime could feel her curiosity begin to build yet again. What would she find in that letter? What would she learn about him? Orihime ignored the urge to open it as she rummaged through the pantry, looking for her chocolate frosted cake donuts. After she found the box of tasty treats, she made her way to the freezer to grab a pint of vanilla ice cream. Then, she whipped up her favorite dessert, a vanilla ice cream chocolate donut sundae with extra sprinkles.

She smiled at the prepared snack in front of her. Then, she grabbed her spoon and began to dig in.

"MMM, THIS IS AMAZING!" Orihime cried out; nothing lifted her spirits more than her two favorite sweet treats brought together as one. Orihime continued to indulge in the delicious snack. However, she still could not help but feel her temptation grow. At this point, she really wanted to read that damn letter. As she threw away the now empty paper bowl, she had an idea.

"How bad could it be if I read it? I'm getting rid of it anyways! Might as well see what's waiting for me!" Orihime says, and a reassuring smile forms.

Orihime quickly makes her way to the laundry room. Orihime opens the door closing it behind her. She grabs the tiny step ladder under the same spot as before.

As she gets on, her hand scatters the top of the shelf for a little bit. Not being able to feel the paper causes her to become flooded with anxiety.

"Shit! What if he already found it!" Orihime cries out. Before her worst-case scenario, thoughts could deepen, she finally feels the envelope.

"Yes! I'm the world's greatest hider!" Orihime boasts as she snatches the letter. She figured it would be a while before Ichigo got home. She wasn't worried. Pulling her phone from her pink pajama pants pocket, she is relieved for the first time to see no calls or texts from Ichigo letting her know his whereabouts or when he'll be back. Still, though, she needed to be careful just in case there was a chance he could walk in at any moment. Orihime heads to the guest bathroom. She closed the door behind her and locked it.

"I don't think reading this is bad." Orihime says to herself, hoping to wash away the guilt that seemed to creep up. She quickly but carefully rips open the envelope. Her hands begin to shake as she unfolds the paper.

Orihime finds it is not just one but a three-page letter.

"Man, how am I gonna read this all?" Orihime sighs; there would be no way she could finish this all! There was no going back now, and she had to see what one person could write three entire pages about.

The letter read.

Dear Orihime, I am pleased to be writing to you. Thank you for taking the time to write to me and your questions I appreciate it. I took time to reflect upon the questions you have asked. When it comes to what sparked my interest, I have a similar experience; my father would tell my brothers and I stories about the celestial spaces. Ever since then, I have found myself intrigued by the cosmos. My favorite planet would be Saturn because the rings around the planet are said to be shattered parts of asteroids, comets, and torn moons brought together by Saturn's powerful gravity. I find it speaks to me; sometimes, all you can do is rebuild with the broken pieces left behind. Then, something new and meaningful will be created with those broken fragments.

In regards to my favorite aspect, truthfully, it is the same as yours. There is a plethora of knowledge that has yet to be discovered. Space is ever-evolving. We will always learn and see more as time goes on. To answer your tarot related question, I am not. I've never found myself believing in forms of divination. I do not feel our destiny is predetermined. We have free will over our actions and can easily choose any path we desire. I am not superstitious either; rather than relying on luck, I rely solely on myself and my own judgment. You may have already read this on the site. I am passionate about reading and writing. I'd think you'd enjoy the novel I am currently reading. It is called "Lost in the white sands." The book tells the story of a young woman who is kidnapped during a gruesome war between two different worlds. Her non-human abductor begins to learn about the human heart through the time he spends guarding his captive. While it may not be my first choice, it is starting to grow on me.

Writing is something I would love to start once I am out. Unfortunately, I have yet to find anything I'd like to write about. For right now, I stick to reading more than I write. Surprisingly I also enjoy both cook and baking.

Not to come off as cocky or boastful, I am known for my red wine braised short ribs and crème brûlée. I look forward to getting to make both things when I am out soon. What happens to be your favorite dessert to bake?

What are other interests you have? May I ask what started your fascination with divination? I look forward to reading your answers.

It was nice to have the opportunity to write back to you,

Take care,

Ulquiorra Cifer

He seemed so sweet, so intelligent, but also charming. Orihime felt a slight blush creep on her cheeks. He genuinely cared about her interests and knew how to hold a great conversation. Sadly, whenever she would try and talk to Ichigo about her passions, Ichigo would either ignore her or say her interests were strange and silly. And, wow, a guy who could cook and bake? Ichigo couldn't make a slice of toast or instant ramen without him or the food burning. Orihime felt the same racing feeling in her heart start again. She did not have the heart to toss his letter out, especially with all the effort he put into it. But before Orihime can think of anything else, she hears the front door being unlocked. Familiar footsteps enter the home as the door shuts.

"Orihimeeeeee, babyy, I'm hoooome my beautifullllllll angelll!"

Ichigo slurs as he stumbles across the hallway calling out to Orihime. He is very drunk and quite a mess.

"Oh shit! Not again!" Orihime stutters under her breath. With him being this drunk, it would be easy to hide the letter. She begins to rip the envelope into tiny pieces, quickly throwing it down the toilet and flushing it.

"Mmm, babygirllll, what are you doing- please don't be mad at me!" Ichigo whines as he sits outside the bathroom. Orihime cringed at the name baby girl. She hated it. Orihime looks around for a place to hide the papers. Her nerves intensify as Ichigo begins knocking at the door.

"Uh- I'm coming!" Orihime calls out, her voice shaking from nerves. She continues looking until she decides the only hiding spot that will work for tonight would be hidden in her box of tampons. She would have to get the letter and hide it in the original location in the morning. Ichigo's knocks become louder at this point. His words are not easy to understand. Orihime pulls the pink box from under the sink and stuffs the papers deep in the bottom of the box. With the letter hidden, Orihime makes her way out of the bathroom to find Ichigo slumped against the wall. His face instantly brightens as he sees her.

"Orihime! I am so happy to see you, you are the most beautiful girl in the world, and I loveeeeeee youuuuu. I am so sorrryyyy please forgive meee. I promise I'll take you shoppinggg alllll day tomorrow!" Ichigo cries in intoxicated desperation as Orihime kneels to help him up.

"It's ok, Ichigo; let's get you to bed." Orihime smiles, hiding her guilty conscience. Her arm wraps around his upper shoulder to help him with his balance. He plants messy kisses on top of her head as he continues begging to be forgiven.

"Ichigo, stop acting silly! You are gonna make both of us fall!" Orihime demands as he and her struggle to climb up the stairs. Ichigo cries again.

"Oh no! I hurt you again! Orihimeeeee I'm so sorryyyyyyyy!" Ichigo whales. Orihime gives him an agitated look and rolls her eyes as she pulls him up the stairs.

The two finally make it into their bedroom. Orihime helps Ichigo to bed. She begins to undo the buttons of his white shirt.

"Mmm, you doing that is soooo sexyyyy." He mumbles as his eyes begin to close. Orihime let out a yawn as she continued to remove his clothes.

Finally, she was done. Instead of getting him in pajamas, she allowed Ichigo to sleep the way he was. She was exhausted herself. Orihime shuts off the lights in her room and gets into bed. Her body turned away from his she felt her eyelids become heavy. Soon, she drifted off into a much-needed sleep.

Orihime woke up to Ichigos snoring after a night of tossing and turning. Her sleep was awful; she hoped today would make up for yesterday's terrible day. Orihime laid in bed for a moment. Checking her phone, the time read eight-thirty a.m... She did not feel like falling back asleep. Besides, she needed to take care of the letter.

"Really!" Orihime cries out in disappointment. She has lost 1,500 followers this week. She was already discouraged from the number of views and likes her vlogs were receiving; seeing this felt like the cherry on top of the shit cake. Today she would have to think of some kind of content to shoot, or else any chance of making a successful career was done for.

What Orihime needed was a delicious iced coffee from her favorite spot.

Orihime got up from her spot in the bed and began to freshen up for the day ahead of her. With her morning routine nearly done, she needed to grab something to wear, and if it were her choice, she would walk out in just the white baggy t-shirt she had on. She settles on a pair of flared black yoga pants and her favorite pink puffer jacket. She kept her shirt on as she did not want to spend too much time getting ready Orihime would change once she got home.

Finally, she throws her messy auburn locks into a hair clip and steps into her pink ballet flats. Heading down the stairs, Orihime runs back into the guest bathroom. She hurries to open the cabinet under the sink and snatches the box of tampons. Quickly pulling the letter from the box, she places the container back in and closes the door. With that out of the way and the letter tucked in her pocket, she felt at ease. Finally, that was done. Orihime heads to the front door. The coffee shop wasn't too far. It was just a block away; plus, even if she wanted to drive, she couldn't as she still did not have her driver's license.

Orihime walked out of the house, making sure to close the door.

Today was a sunny winter day. The sun made the soft snow shine more than ever. Orihime smiled at the scenery. She loved winter days that looked like this one. The area looked like the typical town in a children's storybook beautifully built homes, trees at every corner and center, whimsical-looking shops, and people who all knew each other. Orihime truly loved the area she and her partner chose to move to. She adored the welcoming and charming energy the small town radiated. As she headed deeper into town, she found herself walking past more people.

Eventually, her walk comes to a pause as she waits at the crosswalk.

"Mommy! Come on! We gotta go!" A little boy in front of her says to the woman who holds his hand.

"Issac! We cannot cross the street yet. It's dangerous, dear." The young woman answers, tightening the grip on her son's hand, not in a way to hurt him but instead to make sure he does not runoff.

"Oh, please! A big ol' car doesn't scare me! I can protect us both! Besides, I'm the man of the house now!" The little boy answers, his voice filled with determination. Orihime can't help but giggle at the sight. It was so wholesome how this little guy held so much confidence in his strength.

It reminded her of Ichigo- Ichigo; the thought of that name hurts her still.

Instead of re-entering a bad mood, Orihime pushes Ichigo out of her thoughts.

"What a brave guy you are! I'm sure your mom is very proud of you."

Orihime beams as she gives a kind and loving smile. The little boy looks up and blushes. The boys' mom also giggles, noticing her son's embarrassment.

"That is very sweet of you. Now, baby, what do you say to this kind lady?" The mother asks her son lovingly and encouragingly. The boy looks to Orihime, attempting to hide his blush, placing his tiny mitten-covered hands on his cheeks.

"T-Thank you very much, miss!" He beams shyly with a small smile. The crosswalk is clear. The boy walks with his mom across the now-empty street.

"Anytime, little guy!" Orihime answers back as she walks a few feet behind, watching the two head off. Her thoughts wander to a saddened place again. Would she ever become a mother? Did Ichigo see her as the future mother of his children? Did she even deserve children? The thoughts ran through her head like crazy as she walked up the busy coffee shop.

"Welcome! What can I get you?" The barista asks, grabbing the cup and sharpie. Orihime looks at the menu for a few seconds before deciding on her coffee of choice.

"May I have an iced caramel cold brew with sweet cream foam?" She asks, reaching into her coat pocket to grab her wallet.

"Of course! Name for the order?" The barista asks, ready to write Orihimes name on the cup.

"Orihime Inoue!" Orihime replies to the woman with a small smile. The barista's face lightens up instantly.

"No way! Your Orihime! Like, Orihime, who makes the Going-The-Inoue videos! I love your vlogs!" The barista stutters excitedly, flashing a bright smile. Orihime feels her mood brighten. This was her first recognition.

"Yeah! That's me!" Orihime smiles.

"This drink is on the house! Keep up the great work! I'm looking forward to seeing your success!" The girl says as she rings up the order.

"Thanks so much!" Orihime can't help but feel her spirit lift. She had to tell Ichigo about this! Just like clockwork, her phone chimes with a message from him. Orihime heads to the other side of the counter to wait for her drink.

IchiKun: Hey Inoue, I'm really sorry for last night. What I did was not ok or acceptable, and you did not deserve that. Leaving you like that and coming home a drunk mess was also idiotic on my part. If you need time away for today, I understand. But, I'd like to make it up to you. Let me know if you're ok. You're my entire world, my best friend, and I'm so sorry for hurting you. It will never happen again.

His apology appeared authentic and genuine. Orihime felt herself become saddened. She had just forgotten about last night and was reminded of it again. And while he did apologize and admit he was wrong. Orihime's heart still felt broken by the events of last night. She waited a moment to think about if she wanted to respond.

He apologized, he promised it would never happen again, and that's what mattered. At least that's what Orihimes wishful thinking told her. So, she replied. Everyone deserves a second chance, after all.

Hi IchiKun! I'm ok. I'm at the coffee shop on amethyst st. It's ok, let's just forget about it.

Orihime finishes typing her message and taps the send button. Orihime looks up to find her coffee ready. Drink now in hand, Orihime sits at the empty table beside the window.

"C'mon, Kisuke! Really?" Ichigo groans across the room, his phone being on speaker, rushing to grab the device, almost tripping on the hem of his jeans. Thanks to a night of partying and drinking, Ichigo forgot about today's obligations. He hurried, putting on his long-sleeved black t-shirt as he listened to what was said on the call.

"Yes, Ichigo. It's important business tonight! Have everything ready by then!"

Kisuke orders on the other end of the line. Ichigo throws his head back in frustration.

"My girlfriend is going to kill me! I came home late last night!" I said I'd make up to her today! Can we do this tomorrow!"

Ichigo retaliates in desperation hoping to rearrange tonight's plans somehow. Ichigo was desperate to somehow be back in his girlfriend's good graces. But, much to his disappointment Kisuke denies his request.

A frustrated Kisuke hangs up the phone. Great, not only did he nearly ruin his relationship, but his colleague was now pissed off at him.

Note to self, never use liquor and guys' night out to avoid your problems.

Just as Orihime is about to finish her coffee, she hears the bell attached to the cafe door ring. A burst of cold air follows as Ichigo enters the building. Ichigo heads straight to her table. Orihime covers up her lingering discomfort with a smile. Ichigo gives her a look of sympathy, sitting down on the empty chair across from her.

Those damn brown eyes cut her heart just like butter every time. It's like she was put under some kind of spell.

"Y'know how they say drunken words are sober thoughts?"

Ichigo asks as he gently reaches for her palm. Orihime reluctantly allows his fingers to intertwine with her own. She simply nods in response to the question asked.

"Well, I meant every word. I'm sorry, truly."

Ichigo speaks. His voice felt soothing and reassuring. Yet, in a way, the change made her sad. The change made her depressed, seeing how quickly he could go from a blackout rage to a compassionate soul in a new york second. Would he continue to switch like that at the slightest inconvenience? Orihime swallows the lump in her throat. She takes a moment to compose herself.

"It's ok." Orihime reassures him with a half-smile. All she wanted was to move on from what happened.

The quiet morning was followed by Ichigo taking Orihime on an afternoon shopping spree. Afterward, he would treat her to a romantic dinner. Today's elaborate plans would be his way of "making it up" to her. And while Orihime did not necessarily need anything new, nor did she care for nice things. She did want to spend some real-time with her boyfriend. The two never got to have an actual date since moving in. Ichigo just needed to do everything he could to win back her affections. He knew that if he could make her feel good by showering her with affirmations and nice gifts she thought she did not deserve, he could easily make her stay.

Ten different luxury stores and a nearly maxed-out black card later

Ichigo and Orihime are finally back home. Orihime walks in, taking off her boots with Ichigo behind her, carrying the heavy bags. Orihime turns to face him and smiles.

"Thank you for to-!"

Orihime stops her sentence, noticing Ichigo quickly dropping the bags on the floor and hurrying up to leave. She gives him a puzzled look.

"Ichigo? Where are you going? We just got home? We're supposed to be going out for dinner." Orihime asks. Ichigo pauses his movement; he turns to face her.

"Orihime, I meant to tell you, but I need to head back to the university. There's some paperwork I forgot. I'll be back later on tonight, I promise." Ichigo lied nervously, hoping she would be gullible enough to believe him.

Orihime gave him an odd look. He could easily have the dean send the forms via email. There was a printer in the house. There was no reason to drive all the way back again.

"Why not have it sent to your email and print it out here?" Orihime asked, lifting her brow in suspicion. "Shit." Ichigo could slap himself across the face right now for making up such a terrible lie. But, instead, his mind raced, thinking of any logical excuse he could give. Then, he had his ah-ha moment.

"I tried to this morning, but the printer is out of ink, I ordered some, but it won't be in until next week. And the forms need to be filled out by tomorrow. Look, I know I fucked up last night. But Hime, We've gotta trust each other if we want this to work out. Besides, I just took you out shopping the entire day. I promise we will go another day."

Ichigo added on. Orihime let out a sigh of defeat. Maybe she was in her head, and perhaps she did need to trust him more. And to be fair, he did treat her to an extravagant day of shopping. Maybe she was being too selfish and self-centered. But what if he would hurt her again? What if he would do all those awful things again. Remembering the events of the night prior made her too afraid to question him. She did not want last night to repeat itself.

"That's fine. Just keep in touch. I-I'm gonna go take a shower." Orihime answered. The only thing she could do to avoid getting hurt was trusting him. Though she felt her anxiety kick in at full speed, something about his intentions felt off deep down in her heart. She pushed aside her unease as worry and being too much in her head, hoping to convince herself that everything with them would be ok. She walked up the stairs as Ichigo quickly rushed to the parked car

Orihime laid down on the bed, letting out a disappointed groan. Right now, she was way too exhausted to do anything else. It looked like tonight would be another long and boring night. Right now, Orihime would love to just lay down in bed and do nothing, but the heavy layers she still had on weren't too comfortable. She stands up to remove her coat, and as she goes to place her gloves in the pocket, she feels the crumbled-up paper and realizes she has the letter still hidden.

Orihime unfolds the paper one last time. She looks at each word carefully and delicately written. For some odd reason, the thought of throwing it away saddened her. She did not have the heart to discard something that so much time had been spent putting together.

"I could write him back and just be honest about the situation? No, that would make him too uncomfortable. OR! In the letter, I can pretend to be my angered boyfriend and tell him to go away! But, no! I can't scare the poor guy! Or, maybe I could..."

Orihime's mind drew a big giant blank as she thought out loud. Orihime paced around the room. She hoped to develop any logical explanation. Orihime realized, deep down, that she felt sad and lonely. She wanted someone to keep her company on lonely nights like this. All of her other friends had real lives, jobs, and husbands to come home to. Besides, she couldn't bombard those girls with her company, and they were just too busy. She only had two weeks to spend with him before he would be going back and forth to the city again. She had no real job and didn't have an actual life. If anything, it felt like she lived behind her boyfriend's shadow most of the time. She just wanted a companion, someone she could talk to about her day. Someone who could listen to her go on and on about stuff that didn't even make sense. And while that person was Ichigo, she felt like he and she seemed so far apart despite living together.

Was a friend such a bad thing to have