Author's Note: If there are any errors, please let me know. Well, it took forever but here it is! Not nearly as long as the first one (thank God) and I hope you like it. Enjoy:)
Damn, where do I begin? Last night…was a total blur. I don't know when or even how I got out of that place. All that I knew at the moment was that somehow, someway, I found myself alone in Renji's giant-ass bad and no, I wasn't sleeping with him, you pervert.
I looked at the alarm clock that was sitting on the oak night stand next to me and saw '9:23'. I groaned and then rolled back into the fluffy giant mattress, not wanting to leave the comfy bed, but I couldn't go back to sleep now that I was half-awake. It was then that I just realized that I wasn't in the clothes I was wearing from last night. That, plus I still didn't know what the hell was going on.
In the midst of my confusion, I heard the sound of a dish breaking, which was followed the yelling of a really upset Renji. By then, I was fully awake and I was curious to see just what that idiot was flipping out about.
I walk into the kitchen and see Shuhei on the floor, cleaning the remains of one of Renji's good plates while that redhead was scolding him as he was making breakfast with his back turned towards him.
"Add a bit of salt to my eggs, will you?" Shuhei said as he got the pieces together and threw them into the metallic trashcan at the side.
"No, you can put your own damn salt in your own damn eggs. These are my eggs," Renji growled.
"So, I'm guessing I'm going to have to get my own breakfast?" I ask, surprising both of the men.
"I thought you'd sleep in and wake up around lunch time," Renji said as he cracked open an egg over the frying pan.
"Oh, she gets eggs but I don't?" The black-haired man scowled.
"Yes, because she didn't break my plates!"
"Chill out. It's just plates," Shuehi burbled as he took a seat to the dining table. The man motioned me to sit across from him, so I did. He scratched his head as he stares directly at me, which was a bit unnerving.
"So, did you enjoy yourself last night?"
"More or less. As being as confused as I am, it was pretty fun for a night out."
"Good. So, are ya coming back?"
"Dunno. Like I said, I'm confused as hell."
"Well, the boss has been boastin' about how good of a bartender she was, even if it was only for an hour or so."
"Okay, that's nice and all," I said, interrupting them, "But how in the bloody hell did I get here?"
"Simple," Shuhei butted in. "You got drugged, raped, and robbed, the classic combo. And we just so happened to find you wearing a grocery bag on the side of the road, singing 'No Woman, No Cry'.
My jaw dropped open, but it quickly closed back up once I heard the stifled chuckles of the dark-haired man. I can't believe I'd ever believe such bullshit, but then again, I was hungry as hell and I can't think straight on an empty stomach. I saw Renji making a shushing motion with one hand while the other held a wooden ladle. He snuck up behind Shuhei and swung it down, hitting him right on the top of his head and in return, got a nasty scowl.
"The fuck did I do?" He growled, glaring at the redhead with those cold cobalt eyes of his.
"Break three of my plates, that's whatcha did," he mumbled as he made his way back into the kitchen.
"Hey, I apologized, didn't I?"
"Indeed you did, but words are nothing. Tell you what," Renji said as he scooped up the eggs from the pan and onto a dish and then cut it in half with his fork, "What if we have ourselves a little 'wager'?"
"I'm listening," Shuhei grinned.
"It's simple. You win, I'll forget all about this little 'incident'. But, if you lose, you will have to pay back every dime," The redhead smirked as he brought the dish over to me and sat next to me, urging me to eat at least half of the eggs.
"But, uh, just how much are the dishes?" I asked out of curiosity, which made Renji break out a grin that made him look like a deranged psychopath.
"Well, if you must know," He said, chuckling to himself, "$250. Each."
Shuhei shot up out of his seat and slammed his hands onto the table, glaring at the man across from him.
"Bullshit!" He yelled, "I've heard some stupid shit from your mouth before, but this is just plain ridiculous. You actually expect me to believe that? Hell no."
"So, will you pay with cash or check?"
"The hell…? Did you not hear what the fuck I just said?"
"I heard you loud and clear, but get real. When was the last time you ever won a bet against me?"
The black-haired didn't say anything as Renji picked up a piece of his eggs and ate it, then pointing the fork to Shuhei.
"Exactly."
"Wait! There was that time last year, for Bear's birthday? Remember? We bet $100 on how much he could drink and in the end, he drank your two bottles of Southern Comfort whiskey and chardonnay?"
"Nope," Renji muttered as he shook some pepper onto his portion of the eggs, ignoring the man the entire way, "But I do remember that you're a hopeless and pathetic liar."
"Says the one who supposedly has dishes over $100."
"Which you broke."
"Now hold up a goddamned second! I-"
"What's the bet anyway?" I ask right before Shuhei blew a fuse, "Who knows? You just might win, Shuhei."
"…That's a good point Rukia. Just what is the bet anyway?"
"Hold on, I have to think about it for a minute. But in the meantime," He said as he chewed, pointing to my food and looked at me intently with those emerald eyes of his, "Eat."
And so I did. While the two debated on the terms and issues of their gamble, I stared off into the window that was at my side, overlooking the slow street of Vermilyea Avenue. It wasn't as packed as my street, but still busy nonetheless. However, it was more serene (in a way) in comparison. There were fewer cars, but more people out and about. Some were walking on the sidewalk, while some were several stories high, sipping their morning coffee on their balcony. The sight made me miss my home, even though it hasn't been more than 24 hours since I left my cozy abode. But then, I started thinking.
Why couldn't I remember what happened last night? Was what Shuhei said really true? At first, I thought I may have drunk too much, but that wasn't possible. I always have a massive migraine that day after if I drank a lot. So, alcohol was off the list. Then, there was the idea of drugs. Dude, you have no fucking idea how scared I suddenly got. Like, I got goosebumps the instant I thought of it. But I know for sure I didn't take any pills because I absolutely refuse to take them, under the influence or not. But my self-investigation was broken by the sudden 'That's perfect!' from Shuhei and it startled me so bad that I jumped in my seat.
"Easy there, Rukia. You okay?" Renji asked with a concerned look on his face.
"Uh, yeah, I'm fine. I just…"
"You just?"
"I was just thinking about some things. But don't worry, it's nothing major," I assured him, putting my hand on his shoulder to make my smiling façade somewhat convincing.
"You're a bad liar too, you know that?" He said as he took the last bite of his eggs, "But whatever. If you don't wanna tell me, I understand."
"You tell me your secret, I'll tell you mine," I muttered.
"She's got you there," Shuhei chuckled.
"What?" I growled, glaring at him, then at Renji, "You told him but not me?"
"Whoever said he told me?"
I turn to look at Shuhei, who had a look on his face that pissed me off so bad, I just wanted to slap him.
"What do you mean?" I ask.
And that instant, Renji gave him the look from hell, but then he quickly changed it as he changed his view to me.
"He means that someone else told him and-"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold up a sec there. You mean to tell me that someone else knows about this? Ha, figures. Ever since all of this weird shit started happening, it's like I don't even know you anymore. I'm so fucking confused and I don't know what to do. I honestly don't," I said as I got up out of my seat and started to make my way for the door, but a hand pulled me back.
"Rukia, don't."
I turn back and raise my eyebrows at the redhead, confused by what he wanted.
"Sit down."
I hesitated for a moment, but I slowly did as he said, but I was still glaring at him the entire way.
"I dunno what you want me to say. Yes, I've been hiding a secret. Doesn't everyone?"
To his left I saw Shuhei nod in agreement. To be honest, I didn't know what to say either. I was brain-dead and at a loss for words. True, I could've just asked what it was, but something in my gut told me that it'd be better for me to wait and find out for myself. However, I didn't want to risk the chance of hearing 'bad news', Although most people may think I have a cold, impenetrable heart, I am actually very sensitive about these kind of things, especially when it involves those close to me. I was happy as a clam and then all of a sudden, 'boom'. 'Your brother got shot'. If that's not fucked up, then I don't know what is.
"Hey, look at me when I'm talking to you," Renji snapped.
Damn my thoughts for always making me look like a dumbass.
"And uhm, who do you think you are telling me what to do?"
"Your best friend."
"Best friends don't tell each other lies."
"I was just trying to protect you from-"
"'Protect'? From what?"
"From getting your stupid ass self in trouble," Shuhei muttered as he dug for his cigarettes, but I ignored his little comment.
"In a way, he's right."
I raise my eyebrows in question at Renji at the remark.
"I'm not saying that you're that naïve that you would get into a lot of shit, but it was precautionary. I wasn't sure how'd you react about the place and everything. But even though you're my best friend," The redhead said, locking his deep brown eyes with mine, "I expect you to keep your trap shut."
"Have I ever told one of your secrets before?"
"No…"
"So what makes you think I'll tell now?"
"I…dunno."
And with a 'mhmm', I ate the rest of my breakfast and took it to the sink, but out of the corner of my eye, I saw Shuhei get up and make his way towards me. I glanced at the reflection at the sink to see if I looked somewhat decent, but it was too filthy to see. So, when he finally came along (I was washing the dishes at this point), I had just finished cleaning the last dish, but he just booty-bumped me to the side and took over.
"You ain't a maid," Shuhei said, not even glancing at me, "So don't act like it."
"It's common courtesy, something you clearly seem to be lacking. Besides, when was the last time Renji cleaned up after himself?"
"I'm right here," The redhead mumbled as he chewed his last bite. The man next to me rolled his eyes and let out a deep sigh before he put the dish in the other sink and turn off the faucet, finally meeting me eye-to-eye (which was a bit intimidating, to tell you the truth).
"You talk too much. If you enjoy cleaning, then by all means, clean 'til your arms fall off. I'm just trying to help you out after all of this shit you're going through."
I scoffed as I walk past him and to the bedroom, when all of the sudden, I just remembered that I was still in pajamas, unlike the other two, who I just noticed were all dressed and looked as if they were going somewhere.
"Hey, Renji?"
"Yeah?"
"What happened to my purse and clothes from last night?"
"We sold them for weed," Shuhei said.
"I wouldn't be surprised if you did," Renji mumbled, then changing his view to me, "Check in the closet, but…come back here for a second."
"Huh? Why?"
"Don't ask, just do it," He said as he walked over to me and started to drag me behind him. I didn't know what was going through his mind, but I know it must've been something important. Otherwise, he would've left me alone.
"I finally figured out what the bet should be," He said as he smiled deviously, which could only mean one thing—he was up to something.
"Well, spit it out," I said.
"Well, I think you need to sit down," He gestured towards the couches. I planted my bottom into the leathery cushion of the sofa against the wall. Renji took the seat next to me and Shuhei sat in the green velvety chair across from us.
"Kay. I bet that by the end of the week," The redhead said, looking down at me, "Rukia will have a boyfriend."
"WHAT?!" I screech.
"I will gladly take that bet," Shuhei smirked as he shook hands with the other man, sealing the deal, "And in addition, let's add a $50, shall we?"
"Well, damn, Shuhei. You make her sound as ugly as hell."
"She's attractive and all, but with an attitude like hers, there's just no way."
"Hey!" I said.
"Sorry, hun, but looks aren't going to get you far. Now, I feel now's the time to go over a few 'conditions'."
"Don't I get a say in this?" I ask, getting sly smirks from both men in response.
"'Course you do," Renji said as he slung his arm over my back, "You'll get a…reward."
"What kind of reward?"
"Correction, rewards," He said, emphasizing the last letter, "One, you'll have a boyfriend, which will boost your overall mood. Two, you won't be as lonely and three, I'll get my plates back," He said, grinning.
"So, about those conditions—" Shuhei started, but I didn't let him finish.
"I'll make the 'conditions' here, thank you very much," I growled.
"Go on," Renji said as he got out his box of Marlboro 100's.
"Well, for starters, neither of you can set me up with anybody."
"Okay…" They both murmured.
"And he can't know about this."
"That's all?"
"Pretty much. You two wanna add anything?"
"Hmmm…to make things interesting," Shuhei said, "You need to be an actual relationship with the guy. Pick a number."
"Uh, seven?"
"For seven days."
"And if she breaks up with the guy before then, then she has 3 ½ days to find another one. Otherwise, you win," Renji said nonchalantly.
"Fine with me," Shuhei grinned with his cigarette between his teeth. I just sat there, watching the two of them light up another cigarette as their smoke soon fogged up the room, but I didn't mind. In fact, it was quite normal whenever Renji came over. But for some strange reason, I didn't smoke. I had no urge to. It was like someone trying to offer me cake right after I ate the entire buffet at Golden Corral. And this was probably one of those moments when I could've used it the most.
"So, let me get this straight," Shuhei mumbled as he bent his cigarette into the clean porcelain ashtray, "You have to find a gent and stay with him for a week so Renji can win, correct?"
"Mhmm."
"Easiest bet ever," He chuckled.
"Is not!" I stood up, glaring daggers downwards at him, "Do you know how hard it is for me to do something like this?" I whined.
"C'mon! This is easy! Tell you what; just so this whole situation is over and done with, you'll have a time limit. If you can't find a guy within a week, then the whole thing is off, and you don't have to worry about a thing."
"Hold up now-"
"Deal!" I grinned, grabbing his hand with both of mine and shaking it. I could see Renji's bewildered face from the side, but I didn't give a shit. I just wanted this whole 'bet' business over and done with. That, and I'd hate to see Shuhei get fooled into the whole plate scam.
"I don't think you should rush things, Rukia."
"Oh, please. You sound as if you really want me to find a boyfriend," I scoffed, snatching a biscuit from the glass bowl that was on the table.
"Well…" He said, scratching the back of his head.
"'Well' what? Spit it out."
"You seem depressed. I don't know what happened, but you seem really sad now."
"Yeah, I see whatcha mean," Shuhei murmured, "I can even start to see bags forming under her eyes."
"Shut up, Shuhei," I growled, "And what do you mean 'depressed'? I've been happy as ever."
"You are and still will be a horrible liar. I've known you for 18 years and you think I can't tell when you're lying? Ha, you're funny, Rukia," Renji sighed as he stomped his cigarette to death and then got up and made his way towards the bedroom. I don't know why, but I felt as if I made him somewhat upset. I soon followed and saw that he was in the room that I slept in, with my phone in his hand.
"Your phone is finished charging," He said, holding it up, "Oh, and you have a new text."
"From who?" I asked as I made my way towards him, but he turned the opposite way, "Gimme it!" I yelled.
"Nu-uh. I wanna snoop through your inbox and see if you have that 'special someone' already!"
"You're dumb. You know that I'm not a 'people person'."
"True, but you never know. Especially you. For all I know, you could be some assassin ninja or something."
"And you could be a sleazy gambler that wastes his money every night."
His face gradually changed into a slight frown, which made guilt hit me like a train. I felt horrible after saying that, but I didn't know why it affected him so much.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean it," I murmured as I took a seat at the edge of the bed. He sat down next to me, but he avoided my glances. Then, all of a sudden, he turned his face and grinned, which made me as confused as ever.
"Gotcha!"
"You little piece of shit," I mumbled as I laid back, with him soon copying my action and stayed there right next to me. Even though he was wearing a loose long-sleeved shirt, I could still see his toned abdomen and biceps, but it made me wonder why he worked out at the end of fall. But I shook it off and stared up at the ceiling, seeing nothing but the tiny white bumps.
"Hey, Renji?"
"Hmm?"
"I have a couple of questions."
"Did you go through my room?"
"What…? No."
"Good. Then I'll be happily to answer any questions you may have."
"Uhm, how does Shuhei know about the whole situation?"
"You idiot, he's the same as me. He works there."
"How come you didn't tell me before we picked him up?"
"I wanted to see how you'd react."
"Uhm, okay. Anyways," I said, turning over to my side to face him, "How on Earth am I going to pay for Byakuya's surgery?"
"I thought you had a job."
"What job?"
"The one you had last night?"
"What? The bar thingy? Oh, no, no, no, you're mistaken. I was just messing around with the drinks."
"Boss said you're hired."
"What?" I ask with eyes wide open, "But I didn't even see him or-"
"You don't have to. All that matters is if he sees you."
"That's kinda creepy, but whatever," I sighed, "But I didn't fill out a resume or anything! And I don't even know when I'm supposed to work! What kind of fucked up place is this?"
"You have your words, I have mine."
"Ain't that the truth. How long have you been working over there anyways?" I inquire.
"About a month or so. Shuhei's the one who told me about it. He's been working for almost a year now."
"Good for him," I said sarcastically. I couldn't help but feel a tiny flicker of hate burn in my heart. I had no idea why, but it was born the instant Renji said those words. If he hadn't got Renji involved, then he wouldn't have been hiding secrets from me. But he said the only reason he was doing it was to protect me, so I must assume he's doing it for a good reason. The only problem is, why can't I know? I mean, I'm clear with the location and what goes down there. That part's simple. It's the people that I don't get. Like, I don't get why most of them have codenames and why they were wearing feathers in September and gah, I'm so lost. I feel like I'm in a maze with no way out.
"Rukia?"
"W-What?" I stutter.
"Do you wanna know a bit more about my job?"
"I thought it was a 'secret'."
"Well, it isn't anymore," He grinned.
"Well, go on already."
"I'm pretty sure you noticed the uh, wide variety of people there last night?"
"Yeah, but why were people wearing feathers and who was that guy with the big blue feather and-"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold up. One at a time, please!"
"Okay, jeez!"
"Now, the feathers. It's a bit complicated, so listen up. Not everybody wears a feather. It's kind of like an employee ID, if you will."
"How?"
"You see, different colors mean different jobs. Like, pink is especially for the ladies that were, uhm, performing."
"I…see. But how does a place like that even exist? And what about the boss? I haven't even met him yet."
"I have no clue. I'm just working there. And as for Boss, you'll meet him soon, don't worry. Chances are, you probably already have, but you just don't know it yet."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, it's not like he comes out of the open and says, 'Nice to meet cha, I'm so-and-so and you are?'"
"But why can't I know?"
"I never said you can't."
"So, what's his name?"
"Ichigo Kurosaki. His name sounds Japanese, but trust me, he looks nothing like it."
"I find that a little offensive. Do I look Japanese?"
"Nope. Your eyes are big and not squinty. That, and you don't have a squeaky voice."
"You are such an idiot," I giggled, "Is he a mix?"
"I think so, but I forgot what else. It's some kind of weird country in the middle of nowhere. But he's a good guy. I explained to him about you and your brother and he said he's willing to pay double on two conditions."
"Really? Like what?"
"One, you have to sign a contract."
"A contract?"
"Yup. He said you have to work at least six months. And two, you have to make a new menu of drinks."
"An entire menu?! That's crazy!"
"Don't worry, I'll give you a couple recipes. And he said you're more than welcome to experiment with any alcohol possible. You just need to give him a list of the stuff you need."
"But I don't know how to experiment and all that."
"Isn't that what you did with the drinks last night?"
"Huh?"
"That drink you made. Boss said he watched you and said that you looked like you knew what you were doing."
"But where was he?"
"Doesn't matter. Besides, it's better if people don't know. For everybody's sake."
"But-"
"What now?!"
"…Where's my phone?"
"Oh," He said as he cleared his throat, "Check in the closet. It should be in your purse. Oh, and I charged your phone last night so it should be good now."
"Kay thanks," I said as I got off the bed and walked to the closet and opened it, trying to find my stuff through the pile of clothes on the floor.
"Holy shit!" Shuhei hollered. I heard footsteps run towards us and at the door, his eyes wide open and directed at Renji.
"Do you know what fucking time it is?!" He shouted.
"Uhm, no?"
"We're late for-"
"No need to tell me! I know!" Renji yelled as he ran out the door. I got up and walked after them to see the two on the ground, rapidly tying their shoes.
"Uh, where are you going?"
"Ah, uhm, a m-m-meeting," Renji said as he tied the knot over his shoe.
"That's right!" Shuhei yelled, "We can't be late again! Oh, no, no, no. The meeting leader person will be pissed!"
"Oh really? And just what kind of meeting is this?" I ask with my hands on my hips.
"Uh, uh-" Renji said as he ran out the door with Shuhei close behind.
"Weight Watchers!" He yelled as he shut the door.
I wasn't surprised. They have put on a few. But I quickly shook it off and went back to the closet in pursuit of my phone. But when I got there, I heard a constant buzzing. I figured it must've been my phone, but I didn't know where. As I shifted some stuff around, I got closer to the sound, but it was still far away. My eyes caught sight of the leathery strap of my purse and I knew I found it. But I was more interested in my phone rather than my purse. Once I found it, I hit the 'talk' button put the phone between my shoulder and mouth.
"Ello?"
"G'morning, lutko."
I scream, drop the phone and quickly back away, not believing my ears. How in the bloody hell did he get my number? Wait a minute…
Renji.
I quickly take a couple of deep breaths as I try to calm down and then pick up my phone.
"H-Hello?" I ask.
"Uhm…are you okay?"
"Yeah, you just scared me."
"Really? I thought you were excited to hear my voice," He chuckled.
"Keep on dreaming," I snorted, "So, why didja call me?"
"I wanted to ask you something."
"Oh, what a coincidence, me too," I said sarcastically.
"Shoot."
"How on Earth did you get my number?"
"Joker."
"Shuhei gave you my number?"
"But I asked personally."
"Really?" I ask as I sit on the bed and cross my legs with the phone between my shoulder and chin, "And just why did you do that?"
"Who knows? Maybe it's cause I want you to make that drink again? Or maybe it's 'cause I'd want to steal another kiss?"
I chuckled and said, "You've got some issues, honey. Oh, what about your question you mentioned earlier?"
"Oh yeah, did you ever get a chance to meet Boss yet?"
"Nope. I asked Renji about him but all he said was that I had met him before, but I just don't know it. As if his identity is a secret. I just don't get it."
"It'll make more sense once you meet him."
"And he also mentioned how he watched me last night while I, uhm, made the drinks, but I had no clue. I mean, if I had known my boss was watching me for the first time, I would've tried to act a bit more 'professional' you know? Now, I'm so embarrassed that I kissed you in front of all those people and-"
"Were you ashamed of kissing me?"
"Oh, no. no, no, it's not like that! I just don't people to think I'm a slut or anything. Especially the Boss."
"Don't worry about him. He was busy at the time. As for the others, just don't give a flying rat's ass about them. Half of them are pathetic human beings that have no purpose in life."
"And just how would you know if he was or wasn't busy?"
"Because I asked."
"You what?!"
"Chill. He just laughed when I told him."
"Oh," I said as I exhaled the breath I was holding, "Do you know when I could meet him?"
"Be patient. You will eventually."
When he said those words, I somehow sensed a bit of uneasiness in his voice, which made me worry slightly.
"How can you be so sure?"
"I'm not. I just have a feeling you will."
"Tell me, what's he like?"
"Wouldn't you rather find that out yourself?"
"…You're right. I'd rather meet him firsthand. But I-"
"Tell you what. You go get ready and I'll pick you up in five."
"But wai-"
And just like that, he hung up.
Asshole.
I put the phone down on the nightstand and just realized—I've gotten nowhere. If anything, I was more confused that I already was (if that's even possible). That, plus I was still in pajamas and an attractive male was coming in less than five and I had no idea what I was going to wear. That son of a bitch could've at least given me more time to get ready.
I opened the closet and quickly shuffled through my options, not seeing anything that really caught my eye. Now, you may be thinking, 'How and why does Renji have a closet full of women's clothing?' Well, to answer your question, sometimes I bring extra clothes whenever I spend the night (which would be whenever I had a really bad day) and he just puts them in this closet that's just for me. It's not like he uses it. Hell, I don't even think he uses the room. But I digress.
I couldn't find something that really 'popped', but I just picked what I liked and tried to make it work. I quickly pulled them out of the closet and put them on, looking at the reflection of the mirror hanging across from me. I had on a plain white tee with a grey shawl over my shoulder and black skinny jeans underneath. I cursed under my breath as I looked at the clock, realizing that I wouldn't have the time to even put on foundation. I groaned and swiped the knit red beret at the top of the pile of crap in the closet and right as I was about to look for shoes, the doorbell rang. I ran over to the door, but I tried not to mess up the cap. I tried to remain calm and catch my breath, but the butterflies in my stomach kept on giving me that 'airy' feeling.
"You gonna open the door or not?"
"May~be. Maybe not."
"And why the hell not?"
"Because Mom told me never to let a stranger in the house."
"Oh? Does that also imply to kissing or did you just want another sample of me?"
"Shut up," I growled, "I haven't even let you in and you're already being a pain."
"Well, if I'm such a burden, then I think the best thing to do is to leave. And you'll be out of a job because you won't know when or how to get there."
"I have Renji and Shuhei. They can take me."
"Suit yourself. I have to go. Time waits for no one."
As seconds passed, I could hear him slowly walking away with no hesitation of turning back and I just stood there, brain-dead. It was until I only heard complete silence that I snapped to my senses. I opened the door and shouted, "Wait! Don't go!"
I didn't see him. I kept running down the carpeted path in pursuit of the auburn-haired man, but I returned without avail. My heart had sunk to my feet and I was in a mini-depression. I was so mad at myself…but I didn't really know why. I felt so alone.
So, I walked all the way back to Renji's house and shut the door behind me with a deep sigh. I slump back against the door and slid down to the floor. I had my legs tucked up to my chest and dropped my head in between my chest and my knees and just sat there. I didn't know what to do.
I got up and walked to the bedroom and threw my shawl on the bed.
"So, how long were you out there?"
I yelp in fright, being scared to death at the sudden sound of the voice.
His voice.
I spin around and see the man behind me with a subtle grin at the edge of his lips.
"Didja miss me?"
"Nope," I murmured as I turn my back towards him, "Not one bit."
"Lago," He said as he wrapped his arms around me.
"Huh?" I ask.
"Liar. It means liar."
"You're the liar."
"Oh?" He said as his rested his chin on my shoulder blade, "How so?"
"You said you were going to leave, but here you are."
"I lied because I wanted to see your reaction."
"My reaction to what?" I ask as I try to pry his hands apart, but it was futile. His grip was like superglue.
"To how you'd react if you have that opportunity to save your brother walk right out the door. Sure, you can get to The Rendezvous by Renji and Shuhei, but I'm the one who advises the Boss who should stay and go. I have to say, I'm a bit surprised. I knew you would at least yell at me to come back, but I didn't think you'd be that stupid to run the other way."
"You went the other way?"
"Yup. Then when you were gone, I went back in here for a piss because the other bathroom was stuck up. And so yeah, here I am, like you said. Now, aren't you the tiniest bit happy to see me?"
"…Maybe," I grumbled, getting a tighter hug in response, "So, are you going to fill me in about my job or not?"
"Sure," He said as he let go and took a seat at the edge of the bed, "What do you want to know about?"
"Renji mentioned something about a 'contract'."
"Yeah, what about it?"
"Well, he said something about me having to six months. Why is that?"
"So Boss can have enough time to decide whether or not you're loyal and if you're worth having around."
"And if I'm not?"
"We'll save that for another time. Now, I bet you were about to ask, 'Well, how the hell am I going to make up an entire menu', correct?
I turn my head as I take a seat next to him.
"It's nothing to worry about. I'll even help ya out. I'll be your 'taste tester'. Hmm? How does that sound?"
"Hmmm," I said as I ponder about it, "It'll cost ya!"
"Okay."
I look over his shoulder and see him digging in an old worn-out leather wallet, but I snatch it away, leaving him as confused as ever. I grin at him before I ran away and I could hear him leaping off that springy old bed and dash right after me.
"So, you're a thief, are you?" He asks as I turn the corner of the hallway.
"Correction, I was a thief. Those days are long gone."
"I see what they mean by 'old habits die hard'."
"Hey, don't be jealous just 'cause you can't keep up with a girl."
"You're gonna regret saying those words," He chuckled.
"Really? How-"
But before I could finish, he caught me and grabbed me by the arms and pinned me up against the wall with one hand around my waist. I didn't know whether to be scared or embarrassed. I didn't know if he was still fooling around or if his testosterone levels went through the roof. But that still didn't change the fact that his face was inches away from mine. Our heavy breaths were mixed in the small gap between our mouths and my heart felt like it was going to burst from all the adrenaline. It was then that I just noticed that his chest was against mine and that moment, he pulled me closer and I noticed that he was staring right into my eyes and we got so close that our noses bumped into each other, but that didn't change a thing. There's really no words to describe how I felt at the moment. I felt so at ease then. It was if he had stopped time and we were the only two things in the Earth that mattered. He moved the hand that was on my arm to the side of my face and he loosened his grip around my waist. I wrap my arms around my neck and pull him closer towards me so we could kiss, but once I felt his upper lip brush against mine, but he just stopped right there and then. He backed away from me and nodded his head in refusal.
"I can't do this. I just can't."
"What do you mean? Everything's just fine. You did nothi-"
"Don't you dare finish that lie. Don't you dare."
Those words were like poison to my ears. I remember them even to this day.
"But what's the big deal? Did I do something?"
"No, it's all me. Just please," He said as he got both of my hands, "Forgive me."
He covered his mouth with his hand and looked away, as if he was disgusted with himself. I saw a tear or two trickle down the side of his face and that made me want to cry. Maternal instincts, I guess. But I couldn't just stand to see someone cry and not do anything about it. I grabbed his hands and place them in my lap and looked up at him, seeing only sorrow and despair in those hazel eyes of his. He leaned on me and cried onto my shoulder and used the top of my shawl as a towel for his tears. I cradled the back of his head with one head and his back with the other. It seemed as he was bottling up some emotions and he just had to let them out. I could kind of understand how he felt. Seeing him pour out his feelings like that made a pang strike through my heart, reminding me of the pain I felt not so long ago when I heard the news about Byakuya.
A few moments later, the crying had eventually ceased and before I could ask if he was okay, he got up and looked down at me and offered a hand. I took it and he pulled me up and towards him and whispered in my ear, "Thank you."
He then grabbed me by the wrist and tried to lead me out the door, but I jerked my arm away in refusal.
"What the hell is going through your head? Where the hell are you taking me and-"
"Shut up."
"Excuse me?"
"You talk too much. Just talk a walk with me.
"And why should I?" I asked as I crossed my arms over my chest.
"I'll tell you everything. I promise."
Gee, where have I heard that before?
I scoffed.
He then grabbed both of my arms and looked me directly in the eyes.
"I promise," He said.
"Hmm…a liar making a promise. Not a good combination, is it?"
"Just trust me."
"And why should I? What if you flip a bipolar shit again? Hmm?"
He was silent then and then glared at me with such fierceness that I almost whimpered like a dog. He then turns his back to me as he scratched the back of his head. I felt so bad after saying that. Stupid guilt. It made me feel like the biggest bitch in the world.
"I'm asking you one last time. Will you please walk with me? I need to tell you a few things that have been on my mind."
I ponder about it for a moment. Apologizing to him with the only thing running around in my mind because the guilt was killing me.
"Yeah, but I have a few things to say too."
"Well, let's get going then."
I grabbed my purse, cell, and flats before heading out and locking the door. We went down the elevator and out of the apartments and crossed a few streets 'til we got to the park and we remained on the endless path of concrete. We didn't say a word since we left the apartment and it was really starting to bug me.
"I'm sorry," I muttered.
"For?"
"Calling you bipolar and stuff. I'm sorry, I really am. I had no idea that you-"
"I'm not bipolar."
"And the award for biggest dumbass on the planet goes to…Rukia Kuchiki!!!
"Then what happened back there? What was it that made you break down?"
"You…and me."
"What do you mean?"
"You see, I…don't have that good of a control over my emotions. And the last thing I'd want to happen is to lose you because of that. For example, I could tell you were bummed back there when I didn't kiss you, right?"
"…Possibly," I muttered.
"I was trying to be careful. I didn't want to pressure you, but I didn't want to go crazy either. I'm not sure if you understand, but it's almost as if that 'other side' is fighting for control. I don't understand it myself. But you see, whenever I drink or smoke a bit, it tends to fade away."
"So, drugs are the answer?"
"That's a blunt way of putting it, but yes."
"I am so sorry. If I had known, I would have never-"
"Hey, don't apologize. You're just too cute for your own good, that's all," He said as he snaked an arm around my side and pulled me closer as we walked.
"Is it something serious or are you just angry or what?"
"Dunno. But I refuse to get therapy. I can't do that shit."
"Why?"
"All my life, I've been criticized because I'm not 'normal'. Whether it be my appearance or just the way I act, it's always me. But I always shrugged it off, try to keep a cool, and ignore the assholes that are talking shit. But now, my emotional stability isn't as strong as it was and I'm starting to pay attention to all the things that are happening. And I definitely don't need therapy to rub it in that I'm not 'normal'."
"You wanna know what I think?"
"Hmm?"
"Normality is overrated."
I heard a laugh, a chaste, genuine laugh escape from his lips and it made me smile. There was some essence behind a laugh that is just too pure to ignore. He pulled me in and kissed me on my forehead, as if he was giving thanks.
"You know what I wonder?"
"What?"
"Just how crazy I am. Think about it. I have lost my marbles. Who do you know, and correct me if I'm wrong, has a 'thing' with someone they have only known for two days?"
"No one said there has to be a certain amount of time before you start having a 'thing' for someone."
"True, but still. It makes me feel…slutty."
"You could never be something as disgusting and as repulsive as that. You're my lutko. You could never be like them."
"Well, that's nice and all, but I have still yet to find out what 'lutko' means. Care to explain?"
"Well, it's a long story, but I'd say we have plenty of time. So, back when I first saw you-"
"Does this have anything to do with what it means?"
"Yes, now let me finish my story," He grumbled as he flicked my arm, "First time I saw you…I was thinking 'How does a person that short exist?'"
"I-"
"Lemme finish," He growled, "But I was also thinking, 'She reminds me a lot of Yuzu's lutko."
"Yu-who?"
"My little sister. She had this little doll with long black hair and light green eyes and porcelain skin. She would bring it everywhere with her. She loved that thing as if it was her own child. She couldn't think of a name, so she just called it 'Lutko'."
"But it was just a doll, right?"
"Yeah, but the thing is, she's Autistic. She only has me, her sister, and our mom. That, and she is the youngest out of us. To her, that doll was the only friend she had that wasn't family. You had no idea how ashamed I felt when I saw kids picking on her and I couldn't do a damned thing. I was disgusted with myself for not being able to protect her. I mean, that's what big brothers are for. My other sister, Karin, had to protect her when I couldn't. That's just shameful right there. I swear to God, if I ever see those people again, I'll fuckin'-"
"Hey!" I barked, bringing the man to his senses.
"I'm sorry, it's just a difficult subject to talk about. I usually don't talk about my past with people, but you're an exception. You're one of the few people that can calm me down. I appreciate that. Really, I do."
"It's fine, just give me time to adjust. So, lemme get this straight. You dubbed me 'lutko' because I look like your sister's doll, is that right?"
"You don't like it?"
"Oh, I do! It's cute, really! I just never heard of it, that's all. But when you mentioned when you first saw me, when was the first time you saw me exactly?"
"When you had breakfast with Renji.
"When you were necking with that lady with the big boobies?"
"Ha, uhm, yeah," He said as he scratched the back of his head.
"Whatever happened to her? Did you two break up?"
"I guess you could saw we're 'seeing other people'. Well, at least I am."
"Does she know?"
"Yeah. Last time I talked to her, she told me to decide between you and her and I said neither. And she thought I was covering up for you, so she threw a plate but she missed and hit the wall. A piece did cut me pretty bad on my torso though."
"Who the fuck throws a plate at someone?"
"It was her time of the month."
"Ah, the woman's excuse to every time she flips a shit or gets bitchy. Is your cut okay?"
"Dunno. Hold on, lemme check."
And right then, he handed me his leather jacket and he started to take off his shirt, but I yanked it down
"What's your deal? I need to see if it's okay."
"You can't just strip in a public park! Are you crazy?!"
"Yeah, pretty much."
"Well at least wear the jacket over it so it isn't as plain as day," I muttered as I handed him it. This time he did take off his polo and the bandage was huge. I went to touch it, but then I jerk my hand back, not sure if I could remove it or not.
"It's fine, you can have a look."
I put one hand on his chest to balance myself while the other is slowly peeling off the bind.
"My God…" I said as I covered my gaping mouth with my hand. I just stare and gawk at it, not believing what a single shard of porcelain can do. It stretched from his sternum to the middle of his stomach and I gasp in horror.
It was then that I noticed him wincing in pain and the trail of blood that was gushing out of the end of the wound. I lead him to a nearby bench so he could sit down. By then, it had bled a little more and started to stain the insides of his jacket. I carefully shrug it off and put it to the side while I dug in my purse for packs of Kleenex. I carefully patted the areas that were bleeding but all I could hear was his shallow breathing. He had his head tilted back and looking up at the sky. I could really get to the other side (because his chest was so broad) so I had to sit on him so I could get a good angle so that I could tend to both sides.
The bleeding had gradually slowed, but there was still a lot of blood left and I had run out of tissues. I had no choice. I took off my shawl and wrapped it around the wound and secured it tightly at his shoulder. By the time I was done, I noticed that he was watching me the entire time and yet again, I felt like a dumbass.
"You had one hell of a boo-boo."
"How many times am I going to have to thank you? Why are you doing all of this?"
"You idiot, I couldn't just let you bleed to death!"
"No, I mean, why are you looking out for me? It makes no sense. You don't even know me and you take care of me as if you're my mom."
"Maternal instincts."
"Yeah? Well, maternal instincts would've sent me to the cuckoo-shack a long-ass time ago. Tell me the real reason why you're doing all of this."
"I haven't a damned clue. I really don't."
"Funny, that's my answer too."
"To what?"
"To why I'm opening up to you this fast. It usually takes years before I even mention about Yuzu to my friends, but you…you just…it feels like you get me. Like, you're the only real person who understands how it is. Now, I may be wrong. You may be living a completely normal life and-"
"You're dead wrong."
"Thought so. But can you make a promise?"
"Sure thing," I smiled.
"I know I'll open up to you, but I also want to know more about you."
"Why?"
Right then, raindrops started pouring and I tried to help the auburn up, but he just shook his head.
"Give me one more minute. This feels good."
I swing my leg over so that both of them are on the right side of him and I leaned on his chest and I felt his slow, but steady heartbeat on my side.
"Y'know, I think this'd be much better in somewhere dry," I muttered.
"Mhmm, He said as he slipped one arm under my knees and the other around my back, carrying me bridal-style across the park, but I could hear him slightly groaning in pain. I pat his chest and tell him I wanna be put down, but he refuses.
"You idiot, you're going to hurt yourself."
"Doesn't matter. It can heal."
"But still, I want to be put down. I feel a bit nauseous."
Lie.
And so he did. I looped my arm over his neck as he does the same, using me as a bit of support. The only place I could think of that was dry and public was the subway station so we went there.
Once we finally reached the last step, we both let out a sigh of relief as we lay back against the wall. I took a moment or two to catch my breath and in the corners of my eyes, I saw the man grinning.
"Tired already?" He asked.
"Nah…just out of breath."
"It's from staring at my chest, isn't it?"
"Please, don't flatter yourself."
"I don't have to. I saw your face when you first looked at it."
"S-So?!"
"Admit it. You like it."
"And? What if I do? It's only natural," I said as I crossed my arms and turn my back.
"Now, now, don't be like that," He said, wrapping his arms around my neck from behind, "After all, you can look at it as long as you want."
"Hmm…I want something else though."
"Like?"
"Your name."
"Oh? Why?"
"Because I wanna know," I said, turning to face him.
"It'll cost ya," He grinned.
"You're not talking about money, are you?"
"Nope, He said as he pulled me closer and blocked my left side with his arm. He was still shirtless, but he had on his jacket, but in a way, that made him even more hotter. Our lips were closer than ever and his were hovering right over mine, but before he could back out on the opportunity (again), I locked my lips with his. The goosebumps and the butterflies started rushing back, but they just made the moment even better. I felt his tongue meet mine for a split second but I pulled it back, because I wasn't the best at kissing. I had a feeling I was about to tip over so I wrap my arms around his neck, which made the kiss even deeper (to be honest, I feel a bit embarrassed writing about this). I felt his tongue lightly treading across the edge of my bottom lip and I couldn't help but giggle. I felt like such a schoolgirl (hardy har har). But what really surprised me wasn't at how good he was at kissing. That was a given when I saw him making out with Pamela Anderson over there. It was how he kissed. If anything, I expected a violent and lusty vigor behind him but instead, it was rather tender, yet protective. I totally didn't expect that coming.
We broke away (only by a few inches) and I stared into his eyes, noticing that a beautiful shade of amber was surrounding with pupils with a forest-ish green beyond it.
"Your eyes are so pretty," I said, getting a weird look from him in response. After a second of realizing what I had just said, I cover my mouth with both hands as my cheeks flare up.
I heard him chuckle and then he said, "You definitely don't dance to the beat of the track, do you?"
I had no idea what he meant but I went with it anyway and smile. He then got behind me and put both arm around my neck as he moved his head right next to my ear.
I could feel his warm breath trickling around the inside of my ear and then he said, "So, do you want to know my name?"
I nodded.
"It's John. John Collins."