Date: June 10, 2013
Day: Monday
Time finished: 5:12PM
Disclaimer: I don't own Bleach.
Note: Future Chapter Spoilers in my profile. Not only for this story but also for my other two ongoing fics.(IchiRuki: The Destined Tale and The Promise of Origami) Thanks.
Reminder: Please pardon my grammar errors.
Recap: Toushirou's birthday was near and all of the members of the Coffee shop prepared a surprise birthday party for him. Before this though, Kira Izuru, Toushirou's childhood friend, fell in love with Shiba Momo at first sight. He even asked her out much to Toushirou's dismay. He heard that Kira had confessed to Momo, not knowing that the answer would be revealed in his birthday. Momo, however, rejected his confession saying that she loves someone else and she was willing to wait for him. The surprise birthday party commenced after that and the white haired young boy was truly surprised. Following these events, Rukia realized that she fell in love with Ichigo so much that it was hurting her whenever he was with Orihime.
So, this chapter is about the week to Christmas. IchiRuki fluffiness. Let the countdown to Christmas begin!
—You Are My Love—
A Bleach AU Fanfic
Written By: Mari Kia Aishiteru
Chapter 11
Christmas Cold Confessions
:: December 20, 2009; Wednesday ; 11PM ::
Rukia couldn't sleep. She didn't know what to do now that she finally realized that she loves him. She couldn't just tell him upright that she loves him right? And then, he would reject. That would be so embarrassing on her part. She sat on her bed with her knees bend. She leaned her chin on her knees as she sighed. "What to do…?" she muttered.
Momo was on her way to her room from downstairs because she was thirsty and drank water before she went to sleep. She found her sister's room door slightly open and wondered if she was still awake.
She peeked and she found her sister on her bed. She looked troubled. She knocked and Rukia looked over her door. She smiled. "Oh, Momo, still awake?"
The young girl walked in and put her hands on her back. "I just came down for water. I'm on my way to my room but I saw your door open." She explained. She sat down on the edge of her sister's bed. "Is there something bothering you, nee-chan?" she asked worriedly.
Rukia tried to smile but Momo saw through her. "Don't lie to me, I know that you are worried about something." She said accusingly.
The older sister giggled slightly at her younger sister's words. "As expected from my sister, I can't hide anything from you."
Momo nodded with a proud smile. "I'm glad you understand that. So, what's bothering my nee-chan?"
Rukia sighed at her inquiry. "Momo… I don't know what to do."
"About what?"
"I… I fell in love." She replied, hiding her face behind her knees.
Momo stared at her, surprised. "Eh?"
"Please don't make me repeat that." She said, embarrassed.
Momo grinned. "But… that's… that's great! I mean, that's great news, isn't it?" she said, totally hyped up. "Who is he?"
Rukia sighed. "It isn't great, Momo. It's only one sided. On my part."
The younger Shiba pouted disappointedly. "That's…" and then she widened her eyes. "Don't tell me… it's Ichigo nii-chan!" she gasped.
Rukia panicked and put a hand on her mouth to silence her. "Baka! Don't shout!"
Momo bit her lip and stared at her sister guiltily. "Ah, sorry." She muttered behind her sister's hand. Rukia removed her hand and regained her previous position. Momo stared at her.
"Then, you're talking about Orihime-san?" she asked.
Rukia nodded. Momo sighed. "But, why don't you just tell him what you feel? She rejected him already."
"No, I can't do that. He still loves her. I can't do something like that while he is still feeling like that."
"Nee-chan…"
Rukia stared at her sister and put her hands on both of her shoulders. "Momo, promise me you won't tell this to anyone! Even to Toushirou!"
Momo was taken aback at the seriousness in the eyes of her sister. She nodded. "O-Okay. I won't…"
Rukia sighed and stretched her arms. "Thanks."
Momo smiled. "It's nothing."
"Momo, it's late now. I'm going to sleep."
"Hn, then me too. Nee-chan, goodnight." She stood up and waved her hand to her sister who was lying on the bed. "Goodnight, Momo." The younger sister closed the door and Rukia sighed. She closed her eyes and let her thoughts haunt her even in her sleep.
:: December 21, 2009; Thursday ; 2:12PM ::
In the Shiba mansion, the oldest son was busy talking with his best friend over the phone. Sitting down on his bed and the phone in his free hand, he nodded with his friend.
"Eh… so you're saying, you're going to go back here tomorrow?" Kaien asked, perplexed. "Why so early? You're supposed to return by the 23rd right?"
He could hear his friend scratched his ear. "Well, yeah. But my sister said it's okay for me to go back at this time, saying something about preparations for her comeback and all."
Kaien shrugged. "Then, I'll fetch you up in the airport tomorrow." He said. "It is around 11am?"
"Yeah, thanks."
"Sure."
"Oh and Kaien?"
"What is it, Renji?"
"Would you bring Rukia with you?"
"Eh? Why?"
"I want to see her. Please?"
Kaien could only imagine his best friend giving him his puppy dog eyes. If that was even possible.
He sighed. "Alright. I'll bring my sisters."
"Oh, great! Thanks! You're the best!"
Kaien laughed awkwardly. "I know."
"Oh, I need to go now. See you tomorrow."
"Yeah, see you. Bye."
Kaien cut off the call and put it on his desk next to his bed. He sighed. "I can't believe my best friend is in love with one of my sisters." He murmured to himself as he closed his eyes and silence lingered for a moment. The wind from his open window caressed him for a moment before he opened his eyes.
"It can't be helped."
School had been out since last week so the members of the Coffee Shop focused on working in this busy season. Rukia was making coffees, Toushirou was distributing them while Momo was taking the orders of the customers. And the orange haired son of the owner?
In Momo and Toushirou's point of view, he was flirting with his auburn haired childhood friend. Rukia told them that they were only talking and catching up with each other since Inoue Orihime were busy with her job recently and even though she was busy until today, she was still making a time to visit the shop to talk to Ichigo. That was understandable. Rukia was glad that they finally made up with each other without bitter thoughts but it made her heart aches every time they laughed with each other. It was painful for her to see them like that. But she wanted to be happy for him since he was happy.
Momo and Toushirou didn't like that reasoning one bit though, especially Momo.
Orihime was apparently persuading Ichigo to come with her and take a walk around town while they work in the shop and Momo hated that they were the only ones having fun. It was a busy season and they needed all the help they could get. But the owner's son was slacking off. It was unfair.
Toushirou, rather than angry or mad, was just plain disappointed.
Good thing though, Ichigo continued to turned her request down because he was already guilty leaving Rukia here to work while he was having fun outside.
While everything was happening right in front of their eyes, Rukia couldn't help but look at them once in a while and couldn't help but feel hurt. Momo and Toushirou could only watch the older girl sighed and went back to her work.
Momo crossed her arms against her chest as soon as the customers settled down. He leaned on the stage which was quite far from the counter and the table where Orihime and Ichigo were at.
"I can't take this anymore! Ichi nii-chan is so dense!" she whined. "Why he couldn't see my sister hurting so much!"
Toushirou nodded next to her, sitting on the stage. "Hn, I never saw him like that before. I can't believe it."
"I feel sorry for nee-chan." Momo sadly sighed. "I hope someone fall in love with her so she could forget that idiot of a cousin of yours." She clenched her fists and glared at Ichigo.
Toushirou could see a dark aura from her. He could only laugh awkwardly. "Y-You're creepy." He whispered.
Another customer came in and the two young teens went back to their work. Soon after, Ichigo and Orihime went out of the shop with Ichigo thanking Rukia for her hard work. The raven haired girl nodded with a smile and bid them goodbye. Momo and Toushirou, as soon as they were gone, came over to her and Momo put a hand on her sister's shoulder. "Nee-chan! Why are you always letting him do this to you! He's abusing your kind nature always! If you keep doing this, you're the only one who will get hurt!"
Rukia smiled at her. "It's okay."
"Nee-chan!"
"Momo, it's okay. It's enough for me to see him happy with her. I know I'm hurting myself. But he never sees me as more than a friend anyway. This is enough."
Momo couldn't say anything else whenever she says something like that. Why couldn't she understand? She looked at her worriedly.
Rukia smiled at her sister. She was glad to know that her sister cared for her so much that she was so worried about her feelings.
"Thank you, Momo. But I'm really fine." She said. "You know how strong I am." She patted her head. "Okay now, go back to work you two." She declared and pushed her little sister out of the counter.
"I hate to hear something like that from Nee-chan." Momo sighed.
Toushirou shrugged. "We can't just tell her to confess to Ichi nii-chan though. This is a tough situation."
"Hmm… you're right."
A customer called out and Momo yelled, "Hai!" before coming towards him. Toushirou sighed and glanced at Rukia. "I hope I can help, but what can I do?"
From the door connected from the counter to the living room of the Kurosaki Household, Isshin heard everything they had talked about. He felt sorry for Rukia's situation. He just couldn't understand why he had a son so dense.
Isshin decided to begin the band performance earlier than the original time since the Coffee shop would close at 9PM. So, the original time of 8PM would be now 6PM. The assembly of the performers would be thirty minutes before that. It was only 4:30PM and they were few customers in the shop. The two young teens were convincing Rukia to take a walk outside.
"Nee-chan, we can manage here. You go take a walk and rest."
Rukia shook her head at her. "What are you talking about? I'm the official worker here. I can't afford to rest."
"Rukia nee-san, Momo is right." The white haired boy said. "You are working since this morning. You need to rest. You'll be sick if you keep working without rest."
Rukia put her hands on her hips and glared at them. Losing her patience, she snapped, " How many times do I have to tell you? I'm alright! You're so persistent!"
But Momo was unfazed by her snap. "There's no other choice." She said and looked at her childhood friend. "Shirou-chan."
"Hn."
The two of them pushed Rukia out of the Coffee Shop and locked it. Rukia glared at them and said, "What are you two doing! Let me in!"
Momo smiled at her. "Nope, you can only return an hour from now."
"Take a breather outside for now." Toushirou said. "Bye!"
The two teens turned around and went back to work. Rukia bit her lip and sighed. "Ahh… those two…"
She began to walk away from the shop as she muttered curses under her breath.
On the other hand, Momo and Toushirou undo the lock and glanced at Rukia who was still walking with her back on them. Momo laughed. "It worked. I'm so great!"
"Hai, hai."
Rukia sat down on the grass next to the river, where she talked to Rangiku and Ichigo before. She sighed and stared at the lake. "I wonder what could happen if Rangiku is here…" she smiled. She missed her best friend.
What could she be doing right now?
Thinking of her best friend, she didn't notice someone lurking behind her and only noticed when he spoke.
"Rukia."
She jumped in surprise and turned around. "Ah, Ojisan!"
"Sorry, did I scare you?" Isshin asked with an apologetic expression on his face. Rukia smiled and shook her head. "No, I'm just surprised."
"Can I sit next to you?"
"Hai."
Isshin settled next to her and smiled. "I'm surprised. I'm on my way home from the city when I saw you here."
Rukia just smiled. "I see."
"Oh, here. I'll give you this." He offered a can of juice to her. "I bought this to drink on my way home."
"Arigatou Gozaimasu." She thanked before reaching for the can.
Isshin opened a can of his also and drank. Rukia did the same and stared at the lake.
The old man broke the silence and asked.
"Mind if I ask you something?"
Rukia looked at him wonderingly but nodded. "Hai. What is it?"
"Please be honest with me, Rukia. Do you… love my son?"
The girl gasped and turned away from his gaze. "Ah, n-no…"
Isshin smiled. "Don't hide it. Coincidentally, I heard your conversation with your sister and Toushirou earlier this afternoon."
Rukia sighed and nodded. "Hmm… T-that's…"
The old man smiled at her. "Don't worry. I'm not really against it."
"I-I see."
"But you know, if you really love him, you should tell him the truth."
"But, he didn't feel the same way. He's in love with someone else."
"Don't say that. You shouldn't lose hope. He might just be confuse with his feelings." He explained. "I know he'll realize it soon. The woman he really loves."
Rukia smiled. "Ojisan, thank you so much."
"It's nothing." The old man said and raised his can between them. "Now, let's cheers."
She grinned and did the same. "Cheers." They bumped the cans against each other.
The curtain of the stage went up and the customers cheered out loud at the sight of their favorite band.
Rukia: Everyone is downcast in this city
Momo: (Dead or Alive)
Rukia: where a dry wind blows through
My eyes sought for the light
Momo: (Dead or Alive)
Rukia: But all they saw was despair
My scream can't reach anyone
So stop me with your very hands that I'm looking for
Momo, Rukia: In this world where just about everything is broken
I never understood why
But I'm still scared of the kindness that I touched
There's a gaping hole in my heart
Are you the one who will fill it?
Make your choice, Date A Live
Ichigo: A dull pain aches in me
Toushirou: (Dead or Alive)
Ichigo: It comes back again and again
At the end of this war
Toushirou: (Dead or Alive)
Ichigo: Is despair all that's left?
No one can fix how I feel
So stop me with your very hands that I touched
Ichigo, Toushirou: In this world rejected by every single person
I can't find a way to stay here
without hurting anything
I don't know where to put my fading emotions
But will you accept them?
Please tell me, Date A Live
Rukia: I waver in hesitation
Momo: (between compromise and destruction)
Rukia: I can't control myself
Momo: (wandering alone)
Rukia: Our own senses of justice cross paths
Momo: My anticipation grows
Rukia: (but the truth is)
Momo: I want to believe in you, if something is going to change
Ichigo: In this world where just about everything is lost
I felt like I could see something
at the tip of your outstretched hand for the first time
Momo: My vague feelings
may be awkward and making slow progress
But they're becoming more certain
Rukia: My heart is in motion
Are you the one who will change it?
Make your choice, Date A Live
The shop closed and Kaien came, fetching up his sisters. Ichigo and the others bid them goodnight. On the way home, Kaien told his younger sisters about his best friend.
"Ehh… so you know Renji?" Rukia asked in surprise.
Kaien nodded. "Yeah, I haven't told you guys but he is my best friend. He went to Taiwan last month, three days after you met him."
"So that is why I haven't seen him after that."
Momo pouted. She had no clue who they were talking about. "Ne, who is it? Count me in!"
Rukia looked on her brother and grinned. "Nii-chan, I'll go then!"
Momo pouted and glared. "Ignoring me?"
"You can come too, Momo."
The youngest sibling grinned widely. "Really? Yay!"
"Then, I'll fetch you up at your school tomorrow after your Christmas party."
"Hai!"
:: December 22, 2009; Friday ; 10AM ::
They didn't even notice that the Christmas Party the next day was already over. They were to absorbed in their own thoughts. Ichigo was reluctant to talk to Rukia. He thought that she might be angry at him for his actions recently. But, he was surprised soon enough when he saw her smiled at him when they met gazes.
On the other hand, Toushirou and Momo were always paired up in games but Momo didn't mind since she was comfortable with him. Toushirou was having a hard time though. His heart beat faster whenever she was so close to him. It was suffocating him, and he didn't even know why he was feeling that way.
But, either way, they all survived the Party. And now, currently walking down the stairs, Rukia held her purple hand bag in her right arm while her free hand dusted her dark blue skirt. Her top consisted of a simple white blouse with a flower pattern on it and a black trim on its collars, sleeves and edges. Her hair was laid down but she wore a silver butterfly clip on the right side of her hair. She wore an ankle length dark brown booths with a half inch heel.
Ichigo saw her and caught up to her.
"Rukia!" he called out.
Said girl turned around as soon as she stopped at the bottom of the stairs. "I-Ichigo."
"Let's go down together." He said with a smile. Rukia returned the gesture.
"Sure."
When they reached outside, Ichigo asked, "Are you going straight to the Coffee Shop today?"
She shook her head. "No, I'm going somewhere with Nii-chan and Momo."
"I see."
"Nee-chaaan!" Momo's voice was heard from the gates. "Oh, Momo is already here." Rukia said.
Ichigo nodded. "Toushirou too, I guess."
A black car stopped in front of the gates when they finally approached them. "Nii-chan."
"Come on you two."
"Hai."
The siblings turned to the cousins. "See you later then." Momo told her childhood friend as he nodded.
Ichigo smiled. "See you."
Rukia nodded.
They both got in the car and it drove away from the school and into the airport.
Ichigo and Toushirou arrived in the Coffee Shop to find Orihime waiting outside. The orange haired older cousin approached her.
"What are you doing over here?"
The auburn haired model replied. "Oh, it's closed. I can't just go inside. So, I decided to wait for you guys."
"Did you wait long?"
Orihime smiled. "No, I came here just now."
"I see."
"Orihime nee-san, Ichi nii-chan, I'm going ahead inside." Toushirou said from behind them. The girl nodded with a smile and Ichigo replied. "Okay."
I'm glad that Momo is not here right now… the white haired boy thought as he went inside their home.
Ichigo reached for his pocket for the key to the Coffee Shop. He opened it and dragged Orihime inside. Touching her hand, he felt weird.
What is this? Before, whenever I touch her, or vice versa, my heart would beat faster and I feel hot… but now… nothing is happening… I wonder why… he thought as he let her sat down on the counter's stool. He smiled at her.
"What do you like to drink?"
Orihime smiled. "My favorite."
"Alright. One chocolate coffee, coming up." He said as he got to work. Orihime stared at him while he was preparing her order. She couldn't help it. She knew she told him that she just wanted to be friends with him but recently, being with him. She missed him so much and she wanted to be with him always. She wanted only his attention on her. She wondered why.
"Hey, here." He said as he put down her order in front of her. Orihime smiled at him and thanked him.
"Thank you, Ichigo."
He nodded. "It's nothing. Now, drink it. It's cold outside."
"Hn." She drank it and couldn't help but smile. "It's great as usual."
"Thanks."
Momo currently sat next to Rukia in the airport, waiting for their brother's best friend. Their brother was waiting with the sea of people who were doing the same. Full of curiosity, Momo nudged her sister. "Nee-chan?"
"What is it, Momo?"
"What kind of person is this Abarai Renji? I'm curious."
"Can't you wait? You'll see him later."
"Ehhh~ but I want to know now."
Rukia sighed. "Ah, let's see. Well, Renji is quite handsome and kind. He has tattoos on his head and he look like a gangster but he is really kind." She explained.
Momo stared at her sister weirdly. "What's with that?"
"But you know…" Rukia continued. Momo waited for her sister. "Even though he is rich, he didn't really boast about it. He is really kind and honest."
"Eehh~ how did you meet him anyway?"
"Oh, it was when I bought something for the Coffee Shop, you know, before the thing about Dad."
Momo nodded.
"We bumped into each other. He apologized to me back then. And then, when I was going to go, he asked me if I could help him with something. And he said he was lost."
Momo grinned. "He's honest. Men who asked for directions when they were in a pinch is very rare these days."
"Right?" Rukia nodded in agreement. "That's the reason why he is so honest."
Momo stared at her sister mischievously. "Nee-chan… don't tell me you like this Renji?"
"Huh? I like him as a friend but not like what you are thinking right now."
"Oh?"
"Momo, stop teasing me will you?"
"Ehhh… but…"
"Momo! Rukia!" their brother's voice made the two looked at the newcomers. They both stood up.
"Nii-chan."
"I want to introduce to you guys, well, in Momo's case, this is Abarai Renji, my best friend." Kaien turned to his best friend. "And this is my youngest sister, Momo."
Renji, the red haired boy with normal black shirt, pants and rubber shoes, grinned at her. "Nice to meet you, Momo-chan."
Momo bowed. "Nice to meet you too, Renji nii-san."
"And…" Kaien turned to Rukia. The raven haired girl smiled and stared at Renji. "Hello, long time no see, Renji."
The red head grinned widely upon seeing her. "Yo, Rukia! Long time no see! I'm glad to see you."
"Me too."
Momo noticed the red haired best friend of her brother's look on her sister. It was different than hers. He looked like in love.
She gasped inwardly. Don't tell me, he's…
"Now, let's go home. We'll drive you there, Renji." Kaien said as they walked to the car. "Are you going to stay with your parents?"
"Yeah. Thanks Kaien."
"It's nothing."
Kaien walked ahead and Momo purposely walked behind her sister and her friend to observe. She stared at them while they were catching up. She continued even when they were already in the car. Momo sat next to her brother in front while the two were behind them. She could tell that this man was in love with her sister. She smiled at the change of events. She wondered how everyone would react to his appearance.
She couldn't wait.
After they dropped Renji to his house, Rukia and Momo were dropped to the Coffee Shop and promised that he would watch the performance later with Renji.
:: December 22, 2009; Friday ; 5PM ::
"Welcome!" Rukia cheerfully said as the two best friends came in the Coffee shop.
"Yo!"
Rukia grinned and took them to the counter. "I want to introduce you, Renji, to my friends here."
"Sure." He replied. They approached the counter and everyone smiled. Momo already told them about him.
"This is Isshin Ojisan. He is the owner."
Renji slightly lowered his head. "A pleasure to meet you sir."
Isshin smiled. "No need to be formal. And it's a pleasure to meet you too."
"Thank you sir."
Rukia turned to the cousins. "This is Toushirou, Ojisan's nephew."
"Nice to meet you, nii-san."
"Nice to meet you too."
"And…" she continued. "Ichigo. He's Ojisan's son."
"Ichigo!" Renji said in surprise. Ichigo just shrugged with a small smile. "Yo."
Rukia stared at the two of them. "You knew each other?"
Renji looked at her with a smile. "Yeah, I met him when I study here last month. It didn't last long though, since I have to go to Taiwan."
"Hmm…"
Ichigo put his hands on his pocket as he watched the two interact. Rukia currently was introducing Orihime to Renji whom he knew already since she was a famous model. He was feeling weird. He wondered what was it.
After the introductions, Rukia took them to their table which was near the stage, the best spot to watch the performance. "I hope you'd enjoy your stay."
Renji nodded. "Of course."
"What do you two want to drink?" Rukia asked.
"I want the usual Rukia." Kaien answered, smiling. Rukia nodded. "Okay."
"Renji?"
"Oh, give me your specialty."
Rukia grinned. "Sure. I'll make you a great coffee."
"Thanks."
"Wait for a while."
Rukia went to the counter to proceed making the orders. Ichigo and Orihime, as usual, were in the counter and drinking some coffee. Toushirou and Momo were observing everyone's actions while they were serving the customers. Isshin went inside the house to do something since the children could take care of the shop without him.
Ichigo watched Rukia as she cheerfully make the coffee. She was humming to herself. Her back was to him so she couldn't see that he was staring too much. Orihime noticed this and patted her companion's shoulder.
"Ichigo?"
No response.
"Oi, Ichigo!"
He snapped out of his thoughts and found Orihime staring at him. "What is it?"
"Are you alright?" she asked, "I called you for how many times but you won't respond to me. Is everything alright?"
Ichigo tried to smile and nodded. "I'm okay, everything is okay. Sorry if I worry you."
"If you say so, then it's okay, I guess." Orihime smiled at him.
Rukia finished and put the two cups on the tray and went to her brother's table. "Here's your order!"
"Woah! Smell's good!" Renji said. "Of course!"
He drank slowly and smiled at Rukia. "This is awesome!"
"I'm glad you like it." The raven haired girl smiled widely. She sat down with them and talked about things that Ichigo couldn't hear. He was just watching them and felt the weirdness in him engulfed him again. He was starting to hate Renji too. What was with him?
Momo and Toushirou noticed his behavior because it was unlike him to ignore Orihime who was continuously calling his name. He would respond once in a while but after that, he would stare in space again. They traced his stare and found out that he was watching the table of Renji and Kaien with Rukia.
Momo grinned mischievously. "I see."
The white haired boy looked at her. "What?"
"Look at what Ichigo nii-chan is looking at." She told him and he complied. "Oh." He couldn't help but smile.
"I didn't expect him to be jealous already." Momo commented.
"Yeah, I think Renji nii-san made him realize."
"You're right. I can't wait for some more." Momo grinned. Toushirou stared at her. "You look like looking forward for action."
"Because I am looking forward for some action."
The white haired just shook his head.
Isshin made his way to the stage and introduced the band for another wonderful performance.
Ichigo: If I don't know the reason why
your tears overflow I can't save you
With a forced smile you turn your eyes away
What did you see?
Toushirou: You smoothly wipe away the spilled juice
with your tongue
And pretending you don't hear my voice
you keep gulping down
Rukia: Like a young love, one by one
In those eyes, in those ears,
on those wet lips I can feel
a mystery
Ichigo: I'm pointing to the destination
and steadily I'm getting closer to the truth
In the name of "future"
I'll definitely solve the real you
No-one else, not your tears
For the sake of your real smile
Of Truth in the Dark
Toushirou: Among the overflowing tears that time
I noticed a message for me
I'll remove the knife that is pierced in your heart
The world that you wished for
isn't really a world like this
You have to fix things
You'll just lose your place
Momo: Like a childish kiss, fearfully
Little by little I'm getting closer to the truth
Secret mystery
I'm challenging the mystery
of the fate you're burdened with
In the name of "pride"
I'll definitely solve the real you
No-one else, not your tears
Show me your real smile
Rukia: I'll solve the whole mystery, that is my mission
I can't leave it a mystery
Ichigo, Toushirou: Mystery
I'm pointing to the destination
and steadily I'm getting closer to the truth
In the name of "future"
I'll definitely solve the real you
No-one else, not your tears
but your real smile
Until you let out the real you
Of Truth in the Shine
:: December 23, 2009; Saturday ; 11:30AM ::
The members of the Coffee shop were busy serving the customers. It was very cold outside because of the winter season. It also looked like that it was going to snow anytime.
Renji made his way inside the bustling Coffee shop to ask Rukia to eat with him.
"Renji! I'm surprised to see you here this early." Rukia asked as she was in the middle of delivering something to the customer. "Ah, I am wondering if you could join me for lunch today." He said, rubbing the back of his head.
"Oh, that's…"
Ichigo saw the whole thing and him asking her for lunch. He felt the same thing as the day before again. He realized that he was only feeling that way whenever Renji was near Rukia. He didn't even know why he said those next words.
"Hello Renji." He greeted to him, when he stopped behind Rukia.
"Oh, Ichigo."
"Rukia, please take that to the customer. They're waiting." He told her. Rukia nodded and smiled apologetically at her red haired friend. "Sorry, Renji, I can't go. We're busy today. Next time, okay?" she said, "See you!"
And then, she walked away. Renji sighed disappointedly. Ichigo patted his shoulder and said, "So, Renji, we're busy so I'm sorry." He walked away with a slight smirk.
Renji, with slumped shoulder, walked outside the Coffee shop.
Momo, who saw the whole thing, smirked widely. "Eeehhh~ Ichigo nii-san… you sly…"
Toushirou looked over to her and shook his head again. "Momo and her creepy thoughts." He muttered.
The young Shiba daughter stared at him and he almost thought that he would be dead with her glare but suddenly, she smiled slyly. He suddenly felt a foreboding feeling. "Ah, Momo?"
"Shi-rou-chan!" she said slowly his name and it sent tingles in his spine.
"Stop that! It's… creepy." He groaned.
"Shirou-chan, I need your help." She was pouting.
Toushirou gulped. "Eh? What help?"
"Well… take care of Ichigo nii-chan for me…"
"What?"
"Tell him something that would realize his feelings. I'll leave that to you."
"Why me?"
"Hello? You're the closest to him, baka!"
Toushirou sighed in defeat. "Alright fine."
Momo smiled brightly. "I'm counting on you."
"Hai, hai."
:: December 23, 2009; Saturday ; 11PM ::
Ichigo lay down on his bed. He was sharing his room with Toushirou. Their bed was a double bed type. Ichigo occupied the one under and Toushirou slept above.
The orange haired son of the owner was bothered by his recently feelings that he couldn't understand. He sighed.
"Nii-chan, are you still awake?" Toushirou asked from above him. He jumped from hearing his voice but regained his composure. "Why are you still awake, Toushirou?"
"I can't sleep." He replied. "What about you, nii-chan?"
"Same reason." He answered. It was silent for a moment before the young Hitsugaya broke it. "Ichigo nii-chan?"
"Hmm?"
"Ever since Renji nii-san came here, why are you always watching Rukia nee-chan? You always order her too."
"Eh? Did I really do that?"
"Hn."
Ichigo thought about it. He didn't even notice himself. Why was that?
"You looked like overprotective of Rukia nee-chan."
He gasped. "What? That's not—"
"Nii-chan, when you were with Orihime nee-san, do you still feel the same as before towards her?"
Ichigo furrowed his eyebrows. "Now that you mention it…"
I couldn't feel anything when I touched her hand the other day. My heart would beat fast before… but now…
Silence.
"Nii-chan, please think about your own feelings for once." He said. "Goodnight."
Ichigo didn't reply. He was too engrossed in his own thoughts to say something.
She sat on a chair in her room, staring at the glass window. It was still a cold night but the moon shone clearly in the night sky. She drank the red wine on her table. She stood up, flipping her long hair as she stared at the dark sky.
"Why is he like that?" she muttered. "This is the first time he ignored me that long. He didn't even respond to me whenever I call him. It's frustrating."
She drank once more. "My heart aches when he look at another girl other than me."
She put a hand on her chest.
"Why? Is it because I'm used to his affections before? Or…"
Her eyes widened in realization as she conclude her feelings for her orange haired friend.
"I love him. I love Ichigo."
:: December 24, 2009; Sunday ; 6AM ::
Ichigo walked on the street. It was cold so he wore his red scarf and a long dark coat. The street was full of snow. He thought that maybe it snowed last night. He took a walk to clear his mind of his thoughts. Though, he couldn't help but think and it would be better to do this to help him think.
He could see the air as he breathed out. Passing down the riverbank where he used to talk to Rukia, he saw someone in the corner of his eyes. He blinked to see clearly who could've been there at this time.
Approaching closer, he was surprised to see her there on the riverbank, standing still and staring into space. She wore a purple scarf, long sleeve green shirt and dark blue skirt. She also wore a long length flat boots.
She didn't notice him walking towards her until he put a hand on her shoulder. She jumped in surprise and turned her head to him. "Woah, Ichigo!"
"Ohayou." He greeted with a small smile.
"Ah, hmm, Ohayou."
"What are you doing here, Rukia?"
"Nothing, just taking a walk. I wondered what could have happen to the river so I came to take a look." She said, "And it was frozen."
Ichigo looked over to what she was looking at and true enough, the river was frozen because of the snow. "You could even skate here."
"You're right." She replied.
Rukia didn't expect that she would see him there. She was surprised but for some reason, she was glad that he was there. It was enough for her to be with him, even though he didn't know of her feelings. "What about you, Ichigo? Why are you here?"
"I passed by and saw you here."
"I see."
She shivered because of the cold. She scolded herself. Why didn't she brought a jacket with her?
And then, she felt a warm coat wrapped around her. She looked up and saw Ichigo wrapped his coat around her shoulders. She tried to hide the blush that was creeping on her face. "W-What about you? You're going to get cold." She said instead.
He smiled. "I'm okay. I have my scarf." He said, "And besides, I can't afford you to catch a cold."
He was staring at her with a gentle expression. "T-Thanks."
"You're welcome."
Ichigo found her cute because she looked flustered all of a sudden. He wondered why but decided not to ask her.
"I can't believe it is already winter." Ichigo whispered.
"Sou da ne." Rukia replied.
Ichigo was curious about something but couldn't bring himself to ask her. But, it was for his sake. He felt that if he cleared things up, he would finally understand everything.
"Hey, Rukia?"
"Hm?" she looked at him.
"Can I ask you something?" he asked.
"Sure." She smiled, turning her full attention to him. "What is it?"
"Uhh…" Well, it was now or never.
"I am wondering…" Wondering, huh? "Do you… like Renji or something?"
"Eh?" she was surprised that of all people, he had to be the one to ask something like that.
"What makes you think I… like Renji?"
Ichigo rubbed the back of his head. "Well, you look happy when you were with him so I thought that…"
Rukia turned away from him and lowered her head. "Renji, huh?"
"Hmm? What's wrong?"
"Nothing." She said. "But, to answer your question, I like him as a good friend. Nothing more, nothing less."
"I… see." For some reason, he was able to breathe again.
Rukia smiled at him and walked away a bit from him. She sat down and clenched something in her hand. She looked at him and he continued to stare at the river. She readied herself and threw.
He jumped in surprise as the ball of snow made contact with his cheek. "W-What the—"
Rukia laughed at him. "Bull's eye!"
Ichigo realized what she had just done and smirked. "You!" he fetched up snow, formed it into a ball and threw it at her. She was able to dodge.
"You won't be able to hit me." She said with a teasing tone. Ichigo smirked. "Hmmm…. Let's just see."
They played in the snow for who knows how long. They laughed at each other and soon, they were both lying on the snow, breathing heavily.
"That was fun." Rukia said with a smile.
"You're right. I haven't had fun like this for a long time."
"Really?"
"Hn."
They stayed like that for a while and then, Rukia suddenly stood up. "I need to go back now." She said. Ichigo stood up next to her and smiled. "Me too."
Rukia took off the coat around her and gave it back to Ichigo. "Here, thanks for this."
"No, just use it. You can give it back to me later." He said, but Rukia insisted. "No, it's okay." She forced the coat onto his hand and smiled. She ran away while saying, "See you later!"
Ichigo couldn't help but smile as he stared at her retreating back. "See you." He murmured.
Arriving at their own house, Ichigo saw his father on the couch, reading a newspaper. He sat down across him and breathed deeply.
"Ichigo," his father's voice said. "Where did you go?"
The son shook his head. "Nowhere. Just a walk."
"I see."
The father observed his son as he pretended to read the newspaper in his hands. "Ichigo, is there something bothering you?"
Ichigo lowered his head. "Yeah."
His father smiled slightly. "Do you want to talk about it?"
He shook his head. His father grinned. "Oh."
"But I want to think about it more."
"Hmm…"
"Dad."
"What is it?"
"I'm going somewhere." Ichigo said. "I'll be back before evening."
"Sure. Just make sure to go back before the Christmas special performance."
"Hai."
Ichigo stood up from his seat and went out of the house. Isshin looked at his son and nodded his head slowly as if making sure of something.
I hope you finally thought of your feelings. He thought.
Later that morning, Rukia and Momo arrived in the Coffee Shop. They noticed Toushirou serving a few customers on his own. When he saw them, he sighed in relief.
"Finally, you two are here." The white haired boy said. "I couldn't handle the things here on my own."
"Eh? Where's Ichigo?" Rukia asked him, confused that the orange haired boy was nowhere to be found, considering that she saw him earlier that morning.
"Ojisan told me he went somewhere and will be back before evening."
Momo raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Where?"
"I don't know."
"I see."
"It's okay. We manage here without him." Rukia said.
"You're right."
Rukia and Momo donned their work aprons, a dark red apron with ruffles on its edges, and started taking the customers' orders, making coffees and serving them.
After lunch, Orihime came by in the Coffee shop. She found Rukia and the two teens at the counter since they were only few customers in the coffee shop at that time. She approached them with a smile.
"Hello you guys."
"Orihime-san, hello." Toushirou greeted.
"Are you searching for Ichigo nii-san?" Momo asked, trying to hide her sarcastic voice.
"Oh yes. Where is he?"
"He went somewhere this morning. I don't know where." Toushirou replied. "But, Ojisan said that he will be back before evening."
"I see." The auburn haired girl said. Rukia could tell that she was disappointed that she wasn't able to see him.
"I'll be back later then." She said as she waved goodbye. "See you later."
"Hai, see you."
And she was gone.
Momo crossed her arms against her chest with a puff. "Hmph! For the first time, I am glad that Ichigo nii-san isn't here right now."
"Yeah, sou da na."
"But I wonder where he went…" Rukia murmured.
He stood on the snow under the cherry blossom tree. It wasn't blooming since it was winter, instead, it was covered in white. He stared at the spectacle view in front of him. It was a view of the city in white. Because of the falling of the snow, he assumed. He love the snow since he always found it amusing, peaceful and pure. He wondered what could be its view if it were summer, spring or fall.
He smiled at the thought.
"I would have love to bring Rukia here." He said aloud. And then his eyes widened in surprise.
Why did he say her name?
Because she always occupied his mind?
Why?
Because she was his friend?
But he have so many friends. Why only her?
Why did she always occupies his mind in the first place?
Because…
He loves her?
Is that it?
He had flashbacks of their first encounter, second, the first time he saved her, the second time, the times they talked to each other as friends, the time when she cheered him up by listening to his problem about rejection and all of the other times they shared together in the Coffee shop and performed as a band.
That was right. She was always there for him. Ever since he met her, she was always there.
Thinking about her made him notice that his heart was beating faster than before.
And then, he remembered what happened that early morning, the snowball fight back at the riverside. He never had so much fun before when he was still in the town where his father had left him with his close friend.
And her smile before she left flashed before his eyes.
He breathed in deeply with his right hand on his chest. His eyes closed (When did he close them?) opened and his lips curved into a gentle smile.
"I see." He whispered. "Now I know."
He stared back at the view in front of him before turning around and ran away from the tree and onto the path he came from. He planned to go back to the city.
"I love her. I want to be with her. I want to see her smile at me and only to me."
He ran and ran. Adrenaline forced him to ran faster. He couldn't help but grin at his discovery. It was the first time that he felt this way. Not even with Orihime.
Wait for me, Rukia.
Rukia left the shop with Momo and Toushirou to shopped for new ingredients. The glass door at the Coffee shop says close but it was really open.
It was already 4PM when Orihime came soon after and she sighed to found out that there was no people in the Coffee shop. It was cold outside and she leaned on the door. She was surprised when it was pushed inside. She almost stumbled to the ground.
"It's open?" she asked to herself and decided to come in with a shrug.
She looked around and sat on the stool at the counter. She was staring into space. She wondered where Ichigo had gone. She smiled to herself.
She would tell him that she loved him.
It was the perfect time since it was Christmas Eve. It was a romantic scene. She was restless since she found out and wanted to tell him quick but he wasn't present.
Fumbling with her fingers on the counter table, she was excited to see his reaction. He would have been happy to know that she could reciprocate his feelings now. She hurt him back when he confessed. She wanted to make it up to him.
Suddenly, the glass door opened and she turned her head around. She thought it was Rukia and the others but it turned out to be the one she wanted to see the most. The reason she had come that day.
"Ichigo!" she stood up from the stool and faced him as he approached. He was breathing hard as if he had just run for hours.
"Orihime? What are you doing here?"
"I came here to see you! Where were you?" she asked worried about him.
"Ah, just somewhere. It doesn't matter. Where's Rukia and the others?" he asked.
"They're out when I arrived." She replied. "Are you alright?"
"Hn, I'm okay. Just let me breath for a sec." he inhaled and exhaled slowly, catching his breath. When he was finally fine, he looked at Orihime.
"Oh, why do you want to see me?" he asked. "That's the reason why you came right?"
"Ah, that's right." She couldn't look at him suddenly. She couldn't stop the fast beating of her heart. "Ichigo…"
"Yes?"
Orihime bit her lip and did something that she didn't expect she would do.
She wrapped her slim arms around Ichigo's waist and leaned her body on his. Because of their height, Orihime's head was on the crook of his neck. Ichigo was surprised of her actions but did nothing to return her hug.
"Orihime… what are you—"
"Ichigo." She suddenly looked at him without breaking the hug and leaned upwards. Ichigo knew what was coming but it was fast. He meant, she was fast.
She closed the gap and kissed him. On the lips.
He didn't even know how it happened but when it finished, she smiled at him. Ichigo was surprised but he couldn't lead her. He needed to tell her the truth. He grabbed her shoulder and started, "Orihime, I—"
"Nii…chan?"
That voice.
Ichigo and Orihime turned to the glass door to find the three members of the Coffee shop standing there. He never noticed them there but he could tell that they were there for long. Long enough to witness that kiss.
"R-Rukia…" he muttered under his breath when he saw her. He couldn't see her expression since her face was covered by her hair and her head was lowered.
The stillness was suffocating.
Ichigo let go of Orihime as she did the same to him and fully face the three teens.
"Rukia." Ichigo said.
As if it was what she was waiting for, she stiffened and did something that she thought would save herself from the pain.
She ran.
Momo and Toushirou was surprised and they both called out her name but something or rather, someone flashed in front of them. It was Ichigo who had just ran after her.
"Rukia, wait!"
Orihime was surprised at his actions. Why did he have to follow after her? Didn't he love her? Her eyes widened. She walked out of the Coffee shop and went to the opposite direction where the two had gone.
The auburn haired model bit her trembling lip. She was pissed off as she thought.
Don't tell me he is…
The two members who were left in the Coffee shop sat on the stool next to each other.
"I wonder if Rukia nee-chan is alright." Momo said with a worried sigh.
"I'm sure she will be…" Toushirou tried to encourage his best friend. "But, I'm surprised when Ichi nii-chan ran after her."
Momo nodded. "Yeah, that thing too." She fumbled her fingers the counter. "If he really love Orihime-san, he shouldn't have follow nee-san and stayed with Orihime-san but he left her."
"Momo, I think you know the answer to that better than anyone." The white haired young Hitsugaya told her.
Momo thought of it for a moment and smiled. "Ichigo nii-san… he finally understand his feelings, huh?"
"Hn, you're right."
"I just hope Rukia nee-san will be honest with her own feelings too."
"I think it will be okay, Momo. Since Ichi nii-chan will take care of everything." Toushirou said with a smile. "He wouldn't let someone as great as Rukia nee-san left his grasp. Now that he realized that he has feelings for her."
"Hmm… I'm glad to know that."
Toushirou patted her back and Momo grinned at her childhood best friend, causing the white haired boy to blush. He turned his head away from her. Momo stared at him confused but smiled either way.
May this Christmas Eve makes you happy, Rukia nee-chan.
Ichigo ran around searching for her. He lost sight of her. He didn't even know she was a fast runner. But he felt guilty. He didn't even like what Orihime had done. Now that he finally sort out his feelings for Rukia, he couldn't have let something like that to happen and in front of her!
He frantically looked everywhere until he didn't know how long he had been searching. He stopped for a while and tried to catch his breath. He panted.
Rukia, where are you?
He thought of a place where she could have gone. He closed his eyes as he caught his breath. Soon after that, he ran again.
I know. I just really hope she is there…
She sat on the snow under the bridge. She didn't want to go back. She also didn't want to go home. Her parents would have just been so worried if they saw her in this condition.
She hugged her knees that were bent closer to her body and she covered her face with them to hide her tear filled cheeks and eyes. She couldn't help it.
She knew it would have to happen sooner or later. But to have it happen in front of her…
It was too much for her to handle.
She was glad that she didn't happen to break down in front of him. She wouldn't like that. He would be surprised, because he didn't even know why she would act that way. But, for sure, he would wondered why she had run away.
She hoped Momo and Toushirou managed to tell him a liable reason for her actions.
But for now, she wanted to let everything out.
It was the first time she loved someone that much. So much that it was painful whenever she saw him with his first love.
She cried silently under the bridge, next to the riverbank where she talked with him about everything and where they had that snowball fight that very morning. It was surreal but she knew it was the last time she would experience something like that with him. Because, after that day, for sure, he would be with her always.
That was the reason why she decided that she would forget him. She would seal everything she felt for him. She wanted to at least be friends with him. She knew it would be painful, but she had to do it.
She had to.
Or she would break.
He ran next to the river and looked around for any signs of her. He panted as he turned his head left and right. And then, when he finally lost hope, he noticed her form at the corner of his eyes. He approached the bridge where she was.
Arriving next to her, he noticed that her body was trembling. He thought that she was cold but when it continued, he realized she was crying. His eyes widened but regained to its normal size when he sat beside her.
Rukia noticed another presence and realized it was him. The only reason why she was there in the first place.
She raggedly breathed out and cleared her throat. She sat still in her position so he wouldn't see her face.
"What are you… doing here, Ichigo?" she asked.
Ichigo was surprised to hear her voice so hoarse and… sad.
"Why?" he replied with an inquiry. "Is it bad?"
Silence.
"No, I'm just wondering why you are here… and not with Orihime." She replied finally, trying hard to contain her emotions in check.
Ichigo sighed. "Rukia, I—"
"You…" she cut him off. "…love Orihime, don't you?" she said. "Why don't you come back to her?"
"Rukia…"
"Please leave me alone."
"Listen…"
"Ichigo, just please."
Ichigo shifted his position to face her still position and shouted. "Listen to me first will you?"
Rukia stayed silent and he let out a breath. "Rukia, I'm sorry for yelling at you but… please listen to me."
When she didn't say anything, he began. "I... love someone."
The girl stiffened and Ichigo continued, "She is kind, bright, cheerful, hardworking… but sometimes, stubborn and moody."
"We started at the wrong foot. We bickered with each other and refused to accept help from each other. But, soon, we made up and got well as friends."
"Since then, she was always there for me. I didn't realize this before but it's true. I really appreciated her presence, existence."
"So I want to be with her, always. I want to see her smile always. I want to serve with her in the Coffee shop. I want to sing and perform with her in the stage always. I want to play with her in the snow every winter."
"And most of all, I want to be with her, always."
Rukia's eyes were wide. She knew who he was talking about. She couldn't still believe it though. Until he said it.
"So, Rukia, will you please look at me so I can tell you what I really feel?"
The raven haired girl hesitated for a moment but when the orange haired boy gently touched her shoulder and arms and moved her to face him, she slowly raised her head.
Ichigo smiled.
"I love you, Rukia."
The snow rained down the city. But the two under the bridge didn't even notice.
Ichigo waited for her to say something. He almost feared that it was rejection all over again but he could also tell that she felt the same way, given the tear stained face who was staring up at him.
She was staring at him with wide eyes. She was searching for any lies in his eyes but found none.
He really did love her. But…
"Ichigo?"
"Hm?"
"Can you… repeat that?"
The orange haired boy grinned and caressed her cheek with his right hand. "I love you, Rukia."
The raven haired girl lowered her head as it sunk in her mind. It was true. She heard him right. He loved him. Like her.
Tears streamed down her face but she knew this time, it wasn't like earlier, it was tears of joy. She was relief and happy. She found reassurance with his words.
Ichigo trapped her in his arms. She was small and he was amused that she fit in perfectly in his body. She cried on his chest while he stroked her hair.
They stayed like that for who knows how long when finally, Rukia seemed to calm down.
"Rukia… you okay?"
The girl nodded on his chest.
"I'm glad."
"Ichigo?"
"Hm?"
Rukia raised her head towards him and gave him a big smile. "I love you too."
Ichigo was dazzled by her smile that he couldn't help but closed the gap between them and kissed her lips.
They were both overwhelmed with happiness just being with each other. The snow was cold but each others' presences gave them warmth.
Their faces pulled away from each other and they both smiled.
Ichigo stood up and helped her up. Once she was standing up next to him, still holding her hand in his, he declared. "Let's go home."
"Hn, let's go."
And they both left the place, holding hands.
Isshin sat on the stool at the counter as Toushirou and Momo served the customers. The performance was nearing and the two older teenagers were still out. The older Kurosaki sighed.
Soon, the glass doors opened and in came the two subject of his thoughts just now. They both approached the counter but Isshin didn't fail to see their intertwined hands.
"I'm glad you two are finally here. It's almost time."
"Hai…"
"Ojisan, I'm sorry. We…"
Isshin shook his head. "No it's okay. Rukia, why don't you prepare the instruments now."
"Hai." Rukia smiled at Ichigo and let go of their hands as she walked towards the stage. Ichigo returned the gesture as he stared at her.
"Ichigo." His father's voice caused him to look at him.
"What is it?"
"I'm happy for you."
Ichigo knew what he was talking about and he rubbed his head in embarrassment. "T-Thanks."
"I like Rukia." The older man said.
"I know."
"Good you know. So don't hurt her alright?"
"Hai."
"Now, you go help her."
"Hai, thanks, Dad."
Isshin nodded his head with a smile.
The curtain was still closed and Isshin was in the middle of greeting the customers. Momo interrogated her sister while Toushirou did the same to his older cousin.
"What happened, nee-chan?" Momo asked excitedly. She saw them holding hands a while ago when they came in and she couldn't hold her excitement.
"Momo, I said I'll tell you later at home."
"Nee-chan!"
"Momo, we are going to perform now."
"Tsch. Meanie." She murmured to herself but grinned at her sister. "But, I'm happy that you look so happy right now."
Rukia smiled. "Hn, thanks Momo."
Momo giggled and went back to her position.
Toushirou, on the other hand, patted Ichigo's back in a simple way of congratulating him. "Congratulations, nii-chan. Finally had a girlfriend."
Ichigo blushed and looked away. "T-thanks, I guess."
"Ran nee-chan will be ecstatic when she heard of this."
"Damn, I forgot about that."
Toushirou smirked. "Good luck with that, nii-chan."
Ichigo sighed. "Well, I guess I'm going to enjoy my days without her here first."
He patted his shoulder. "You're right."
Isshin's voice boomed from the other side of the curtain and Toushirou hurriedly went back to his position, at the back of Rukia.
"Well, what are we waiting for? I introduced you, the Soul Peacemakers!"
The curtain rose up and the audience applauded.
"Merry Christmas!" the four of them greeted as they began to play their respective instruments.
Ichigo: Familia Those who we met in our only life
Rukia: Familia Those who filled up my Mobile Phone in box
Toushirou: Familia Those who sometimes quarrel and left me, but still come back later
Momo: Familia Those who always give me a hand when I'm in trouble
Rukia: Sometimes feeling lonely without reasons
but because of you, I feel I'm not alone
All: Mother, Father, Brother, Sister and all my friends...
Thank you for your love
Momo: Even though I'm petty, Even though I'm a coward, you still love me a lot
All: Mother, Father, Brother, Sister and all my friends...
I love you so much
Toushirou: Your warm words always pushes me forward
Momo: Familia The people who laugh at worthless things
Toushirou: Familia The people who like to laugh at happy feelings
Rukia: Familia If it`s possible I want them to die later than me
Ichigo: Familia There are people who will die earlier than me
Rukia: I wonder why I can't be more honest about things
I know words nor gestures cannot express my meaning
Momo: I love you, thank you, but I still have to
But I can't quite tell, right now I have a song to reach you
Toushirou: I can't look away or let go
Above all I want to become stronger
Committed bonds tied more firmly than anything
All: Mother, Father, Brother, Sister and all my friends...
Thank you for your love
Rukia: Even though I'm petty, Even though I'm a coward, you still love me a lot
Your warm voice always pushes me forward
All: Mother, Father, Brother, Sister and All of my friends
Thank you for your love
Ichigo: At anytime and anywhere, you will always be my side and believe me
All: Mother, Father, Brother, Sister and All of my friends
I love you so much
Rukia: Your warm words will always echo in my heart
All: Thank you for meeting me.
The audiences applauded once again and the performers grinned to each other. Ichigo and Rukia smiled at each other.
They finally realized that love was painful but it was also a great feeling.
A/N: Finally! I hope you like this one because I did my best for this. This is so long. Did you notice? XD There are so many changes here that wasn't written in the manuscript, though.
First: Orihime's solo scene in the hotel where she was thinking and realizes that she loves Ichigo. (This scene wasn't in the manuscript, I added it in here.)
Second: In the manuscript, Ichigo left in December 23 but here, he left in December 24 in the morning, after that snowball fight. He was gone for one day because he returned in December 24 in the afternoon. He stayed in the mountains.
Third: The snowball fight of Ichigo and Rukia was added and didn't exist in manuscript.
Fourth: The confession part under the bridge was changed from the DN Angel like scene where Daisuke finally told Riku that she was the one he love and not Risa who was Riku's twin sister. For me, this scene is great.
Fifth: the special performance. In the manuscript, they didn't perform and instead, watched fireworks separately. (IchigoxRukia, MomoxToushirou)
Sixth: The songs used in the manuscript were originally "Cherry by YUI" and "Grip by Every little thing". I changed them since the songs I used here were new.
Thank you for your everlasting support. I love you guys.
Read and Review please! :D
Song used: Date A Live by Sweet Arms. (Opening song of the anime of the same title. It is so great that I loved it.); Mystery Virgin by Yamada Ryosuke (I love this song too.); Familia by D-51 (Christmas Special of this fic, ending song of Katekyo Hitman Reborn, I love this song, it is so meaningful.)
Next Chapter: Renji's sister visits Japan for good! Who might his sister be? —Chapter 12: Love at first sight?!
Look forward!