A/N: Thank you for the reviews, favorites, and follows I really really appreciate them.
A/N: I don't currently have a beta-er so there might be some errors just pretend they are not there ^_^;; I hope you enjoy this chapter!
A/N: I do not own any characters or bleach they belong to kubo Tite.
"Where are we going?" Hina asked turning from the window to glance at him, "I feel like we've been driving for days."
Tōshirō had been lost in thought, having forgotten that she was even there. After being released from the hospital he had been trying to figure out what to do. He couldn't contact anyone in his department, much less trying Ikkaku again. If there was a rat, he would have to be very careful of his actions.
He didn't trust Hina, but he allowed her to tag along until he could completely discredit her. That's where they were heading now, to see a friend of his that may be able to get him that information.
"Fine." She sighed and stretched out in the seat with a loud yawn, "I get it, you're the silent type. Well I'm not. Communication between partners is essential for a great team."
"We are not partners," he answered not sure why he even bothered.
"You may not like it but for now we are. I have your back; I just hope I can trust you to have mine." She turned in her seat to face him, "After all this with Ōmaeda is over, I hope we can continue our relationship."
"We have no relationship." Her drugging him and claiming they had sex did not constitute any sort of closeness to him. "If we had sex, it was just that. I have no intention of seeing you ever again."
A range of emotions flitted across her face; he could see the anger burning in her chocolate eyes. To his surprise she didn't say anything, with a small exhale she turned towards the window and closed her eyes.
It wasn't much longer before they arrived at their destination. It was a wonder he still remembered how to get there. To say it was off the beaten path was an understatement.
"Wait here, I'll be back in a few minutes." Tōshirō said to her as he turned off the car engine. He could see her reflection in the passenger side window. Although she had been silent the rest of the ride there, she wasn't asleep.
"I'm coming with you." She answered reaching for the door.
He grabbed her arm, "Don't say anything and keep your hands to yourself." He warned her.
Momo jerked her arm away, "I won't do anything to jeopardize you, don't worry. I'm not stupid." She hissed heatedly exiting the car.
He didn't reply to her as he followed her to the door. She was still smarting from what he said on the way there. No relationship whatsoever? So, he made it a habit of sleeping with women and just walking away? Although she had drugged him, it wasn't her fault that it had that side effect on him.
How was she to know it was gonna arouse him? She was fit, and she knew how to handle herself in a fight, but his small stature belied his strength. But if she was being honest, she hadn't really fought that much. He was her type, and she figured it would give her an opening in gaining his trust.
That didn't work out quite as planned, she didn't realize how embarrassed she would be once he was sober, and she had to explain her ruse. She hadn't expected the dark condescending gaze he had the moment he woke up; it withered every bit of confidence she had.
All her training couldn't prepare her for this, dealing with this disillusioned man. Umesada had made it sound so simple, like he would be so pliable. Just wait till she could finally get her hands on him; she would make him pay for putting her through all this.
"Hirako, long time." Tōshirō said as he opened the door after a few moments.
"How's it going? Come in." he stepped aside to let them in.
"Not well, I need your help. Can we talk somewhere private?" he answered straight to the point, he didn't have time for niceties.
"It's just us here." Shinji replied with a shrug, glancing between the two of them.
"Without her." Tōshirō clarified.
"Oh sure, follow me."
"Just wait here." Tōshirō commanded as he and Hirako headed towards the back of the house. They disappeared into one of the closed doors leaving her alone.
"Just wait here." Momo said mocking him once he was out of earshot. Sure, she'll just sit right there like a good little girl.
She didn't understand him at all. After the incident with Keiji she figured that would have built his trust in her. She had killed two of Ōmaeda's men and gotten him out of a dire situation. After all that he was supposed to realize that she was there to help. Or at least that was what the plan was. Nothing was going according to plan if anything he became even more distant.
She got up and gave herself a quick tour of the living room, it was modest nothing fancy. It was like a typical bachelor pad, no personal pictures, no feminine touches.
She would just explore the other rooms while they conducted their business. She didn't know this Hirako guy, but he must be an informant. Tōshirō wouldn't risk meeting anyone connected to the Bureau. Maybe there was some information to gain that would be useful to Ōmaeda? ~
"What's with the girl? Is she a girlfriend?" Shinji asked the moment the door was closed behind them.
"No, she claims she works for the FBI. I need your help finding out who she really is."
"I don't know what department she might have been in, but I've never seen her before." Shinji flipped open his laptop, his fingers working quickly on the keys. "Well it'll take me about 20 minutes to get you an answer, but I can do it."
"Do you need a picture of her?" Tōshirō asked pulling out the photograph he had taken from the bellboy's body.
"No need I have camera's everywhere here. I can just grab a still from that." He picked up a controller and the wall behind him illuminated with multiple screens.
"She mentioned she was working with Yamamoto." Tōshirō answered, trying to think of any other information she had let slipped, "And a brother that was murdered about 2 years ago."
"Yamamato? I'll start there first." As he worked on the laptop Tōshirō watched her wander around Shinji's home and then vanish into one of the rooms.
"Who's the girl?" he cocked his head towards the screen that she appeared on as she entered a room that was already occupied by another woman.
"A project." Shinji replied with a groan, "more trouble than I need."
As he watched Hina's interactions with her, he recognized her. When he had started trying to get an in with Ōmaeda he worked for Umesada for a few months. She was a mercenary that routinely did jobs for him.
"You do know she's dangerous right?"
"You don't have to tell me," he glanced up from the screen a sardonic smile on his lips, "I have the scars to prove it." Shinji went back to typing away on his keyboard.
What could they be in there talking about? ~
"Hinamori Momo" that condescending voice could only belong to one person.
Momo froze a frown marring her features, as she turned to face the other occupant in the room. "What are you doing here?"
Hiyori cocked her head to the side and smirked, "I should ask you the same thing."
"I'm on assignment." Momo answered crossing her arms in front of her. She knew Hiyori well, even though they were acquaintances, she was still a bitch. She worked for Umesada doing his dirty work which included stealing, killing and whatever else his heart desired.
She lifted her leg slightly, giving the chain around her ankle a little dangle. "I'm on vacation."
"Vacation huh? This looks like something else entirely." The room was sparsely furnished with just a bed and a single nightstand. "Like a kinky dungeon."
"You are one to talk. You're doing undercover work? Dressed like a tart?" Hiyori replied rudely, sitting back on the bed. "why does this seem like something Umesada thought up?"
"Because it was, does he know you are here?"
"I'm fucking chained to a bed, what does that tell you?" she rolled her eyes and turned onto her stomach.
Momo laughed, "I guess you don't rank too high on his list. If you wanted to leave, I'm sure you could."
"Damn right I could, but I'm enjoying being waited on hand and foot." Hiyori said with a chuckle. Momo was right, whenever she wanted to, she could easily pick the lock and slip away like she had in Paris.
But it seemed like she was a glutton for punishment. Her feelings had been hurt and she had run away, there was no point in staying there just to be berated by someone like him. She went back to Umesada and immediately he had a job for her to do.
It was supposed to be easy, and it looked like it was until fate stuck its damn head in her business again. Did he not have anything better to do then follow her? Needless to say, she ended up in the same situation as before. But now they were in the middle of nowhere, and she didn't really care about returning to Umesada.
It was like staying at a 5-star resort, her meals were prepared for her. She had all the channels she could want, it even included turn down service. What more could a girl ask for?
"I think a vacation sounds good to me. If it was me, I'd be doing the same thing. Not having to deal with Umesada or Ōmaeda. I'd happily be some guys sex slave."
Hiyori laughed "You talking 'bout that guy you came in with? He doesn't seem like much."
"Oh, believe me, he may not look like it but he's a beast." Momo giggled. Hiyori knew well what she meant; Shinji seemed inept but given the chance he had proved her wrong.
"You know he's a fed, right? Shinji is FBI and if they are working together it's easy to piece together." Hiyori sat up as the thought came to her. "That's your mission?"
Momo nodded, "Yea, I know. Ōmaeda wants me to find out what information he knows, and what he may have told his superiors."
"Well good luck with that." Hiyori muttered losing interest. Right now, anything that had to do with Umesada left a sour taste in her mouth. She was glad to be away from his licentious grasp.
"I don't need luck," Momo said, "I'm good at my job."
"Sure." Hiyori said a frown on her lips, "If you were smart, you'd get out while you have the chance. Believe me it's not worth it." ~
"Ok found a match." Shinji called to Tōshirō who had stretched out for a brief nap. They had been driving nonstop for the past few days with few stops. He didn't trust letting her out of his sight, and he didn't want her having the chance to drug him again.
He got up and came over to glance at the screen, her young smiling face stared back at him, Hinamori Momo was her real name. So, she was telling the truth. "How current is this information?"
Shinji scrolled through the page, "About a year old, but her status is active. It says she was personally hired by Yamamoto himself."
"Is that significant?" Tōshirō wasn't as up to date on the higher-ups in any of the divisions. He had been undercover for the past year and that sort of thing wasn't a priority.
"Yeah, Yamamoto is the director of the Japanese Bureau." Shinji looked at him like he had just said the sky was green, "that's a really big thing. She had to have done something to prove herself to him."
"I see." So, he was wrong about her. But his gut feeling was never wrong, something was up with her. "What about a brother?"
"Says here, a Takari Momo worked for Yamamoto's division for five years before he was killed while undercover. He was investigating Ōmaeda when his body was delivered in pieces to the department office. Wow, gruesome." Shinji muttered.
"Yeah." Tōshirō had thought coming here would help him expose her lies, but instead everything she had said was proven to be the truth. "Thanks for your help, Hirako."
"No problem, glad I could be of some assistance." He rose from his seat. "I wonder what they've been talking about all this time."
"Maybe they are sharing trade secrets." Tōshirō muttered, Kami only knew what an FBI agent and a mercenary could have in common.
Shinji laughed, "Oh so she's a handful too? Good luck."
"I don't need luck to deal with her." he replied, he would change tactics going forward. He still didn't trust her but now he knew there was truth in her words. He still had to be cautious but at least he knew she wouldn't kill him.
"Better than me," he opened the door to the room that the two women occupied. "Thanks for keeping my guest company Hiyori."
"Wasn't doing it for you." She said making a face, "the twit wouldn't leave."
Momo flashed her a bright smile, "It was nice meeting you too, Hiyori."
Hiyori rolled her eyes and muttered "whatever."
"Let's go, Hina." He would not let on to her that he knew everything just yet, "Next time, Hirako."
"See ya guys." Shinji said with a wave.
"So where are we headed now?" Momo asked once they had let themselves out. They were there for less than an hour, what had been the purpose of this visit?
"Home." Was all he said as he gunned the engine and sped off.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Kenpachi looked up as his door opened and Yachiru stumbled her way into his den, which he had converted into a make-shift office. Since Unohana had arrived he had discontinued use of his real office because of her penchant for barging in unannounced. She barreled her way towards her favorite spot in his room and settled herself into the high back sofa. "Still haven't gotten the hang of it?" He asked nonchalantly.
"I'm getting better, just a little stiffness still." She turned to face him, a pensive look on her young face. "Dr. Mayuri said it should only take me a few weeks to get used to walking without the braces, but I feel like it's never gonna happen." She let out a long sigh and flounced back against the plushness of the settee.
"It's only been a week." He muttered turning back to his unfinished work. He didn't want to entertain her self-deprecating. She seemed a bit down since the operation, she must have figured it was gonna be an easy fix. "If you continue your physical therapy as instructed, you'll get better faster."
"Ugh," she groaned, "I hate Mr. Kinaki!" she was slowly lifting one leg high, then repeating the process with the other. "he's so weird and he asks so many random questions and the way he touches me." She made a very unfeminine hurling sound, "I just can't stand it. Can't you find someone else?"
"What do you mean?" in Yumichika's absence he had taken on the role of her primary caregiver. He would never admit it to anyone, but he was beginning to see why Yumichika and Ikkaku were so fond of her. To hear that someone was potentially molesting or abusing her was setting a slow burn to his blood.
"Well," she turned in the seat, kneeling so that she was looking straight at him, "He's just always asking about you and Yumi and Baldy." She pouted brushing her hair from her eyes, "He's always asking why I want to stay here with you guys."
"Oh, is that all?" A young woman in a house of bachelors was indeed uncommon. If that was the extent of the questioning, he could dismiss the issue.
"No! it's just creepy, he asks if I ever see you while you are doing your business and how come you have such a big house and so much money when you do such a meager job." She huffed, her cheeks reddening from what he could only guess was anger, "How am I supposed to know that! He's just a creep."
"How often does has he interrogated you?"
"Like every time, but he tries to be sneaky with it." Yachiru slowly slipped off the couch using the back to steady herself as the feeling came back to her legs. "I can barely keep my attention on doing my leg exercises."
"And the touching?" This is where his real curiosity lied. Maybe what she would consider inappropriate would be generalized touching that was required to perform his job satisfactorily.
"Well he's always rubbing my legs." She stated simply.
"In a sexual way?" simple touching was part of the job, it was unavoidable.
"Well," her voice was soft, and she looked away nervously. He could see the internal struggle written on her face as she was deciding on what words to use.
"Did he touch you inappropriately?" he tried to keep his voice level. He couldn't let what he was feeling show on his face, it'd probably scare her half to death. If that fucker put a hand on her, he would deal with him personally. And take pleasure in doing it.
"I don't know. It just feels…" she paused searching for the right word to describe the sensation of having his fingers on her skin. "I just feel weird and dirty while he's doing it." she turned to look at him shifting her weight on her feet. "I'll show you." She steadily made her way over to him.
Kenpachi watched in rapt awe as she walked towards him, he was always amazed at what Mayuri could do but this topped the list of his accomplishments. He just hoped that what she was going to show him was indeed innocent and her naïve mind had just skewed the severity of it.
"Ok turn around, you gotta face me," she said when she was standing next to him. He spun his chair so that they were face to face. Slowly she sunk to her knees in front of him. "I'm always sitting and then he does this." She placed both hands on his thick thighs slowly sweeping her fingers from the top of his thighs to his knees and back again.
She could feel the muscles there tense and retract with each deliberate stroke. He wasn't reacting as she had. Maybe it was all in her mind? "Does this feel strange to you?"
Kenpachi took a deep breath, laying his hand on hers to still them. It felt strange but not for the reason it should. It felt like a lover's caress when she touched him like that. "To me it's not uncomfortable, but he shouldn't be touching you like that. He-"
His office door swung open and both their eyes flew to the offender, Unohana barged in with Ikkaku at her heels. Her arms were occupied by a stack of manilla folders and hard-backed binders. "If you think you can pass off these phony documents as being the real thing you are sadly mistaken—" her voice died as she took in the scene in front of her.
From the doorway Kenpachi's desk hid all but the top of Yachiru's head from view. With his back towards them and her head in such a compromising position there was only one thing that it looked like they could be doing.
"I told you he was busy." Ikkaku said chuckling next to her.
Yachiru poked her head up to stare at them. It's been a few days since she'd played any tricks on Unohana. Slowly and deliberately she ran the back of her hand across her lips. "Maybe next time you'll knock first." She breathed adding as much huskiness as she could to her voice.
Kenpachi's eyes were narrowed and she could tell he wanted to say something to give up her little ruse. He was no fun at all; everything was for his benefit, yet he didn't want to play along.
Her legs were burning from kneeling so long. She tried not to wince as she stood up. Kenpachi noticed her struggle and reached out helping her to her feet. His strong hands felt warm and tingly as he steadied her on her feet. She gave him an appreciative smile and made a show of fixing her skirt and blouse. "I'm done, but he may need a moment." She giggled innocently and walked towards the pair in the doorway.
Unohana's face at that moment gave her all the justification she needed in continuing this little ruse. "I'll be back in 10 minutes." she all but snapped as she turned away in a huff and stomped out, the door slamming behind her.
Ikkaku gave her a high five, "that was a good one. Think she'll listen next time?"
"I doubt it. She's more concerned with me then Ken-chan." She sighed, after the trip to Dr. Mayuri's she had told Ikkaku her plan of getting Unohana out of the house. He had agreed on helping her although his ideas always involved someone getting hurt. "I wish she'd just get the hint."
"You are doing a great job." Ikkaku said reassuringly, "Your acting skills are on par with Yumichika's."
"Don't encourage her." Kenpachi grumbled, he didn't need her thinking this little game she was playing was the right thing to do. Nothing she could do was going to scare off Unohana, she was there until her investigation was complete. "Speaking of which, Yumichika will be stopping by later, why don't you go get ready or something?" he said dismissing her.
"Ok Ken-Chan, but what about Mr. Kinaki?" she asked making a sour face, "Are you going to fire him?"
"That weirdo? I can handle him for you Shorty. Just say the word." Ikkaku had a dangerous glint in his eyes, something she only saw when he told her about his make-believe spy adventures.
"That won't be necessary Ikkaku. I'll speak with him." Kenpachi said with a shake of his head. Sometimes he wondered if Ikkaku forgot he was in the presence of an innocent young woman.
"Thanks Ken-chan. Next time Baldy!" She replied happily closing the door behind her.
"I want Kinaki taken care of." Kenpachi stated austerely once she was gone. This way Yachiru wouldn't be the wiser, she'd just think he was fired and that would have been the end of it. "Then call Mayuri and see if he has someone who can take his place."
"Sure boss want it clean?" either way Ikkaku was fine with. He hadn't gotten his hands really dirty in a while. With Unohana there things were at a snail's pace, he was lucky if he was able to get out once a week.
"Whatever just make sure he suffers." Kenpachi replied, the slow smirk that took over Ikkaku's lips mirroring his own.
"I'll be back later with the details." With that Ikkaku took his leave. As he opened the door Unohana stood poised outside ready to knock. "You learned your lesson." He said derisively with a wide grin.
She ignored him, stepping aside so he could pass. She would not be goaded into such frivolous emotions. That's not what she was there for. She could hear his mocking laughter as he disappeared down the hall.
"I want the real financial reports, these bogus numbers do not make sense." She stated calmly laying down the stacks of rubbish he had fostered on her. "If you think for one minute that I would believe you manage to live this comfortably on a salary such as this…" she pushed them into the open waste bin next to his desk. "You are sadly mistaking my intelligence."
Kenpachi shrugged, "You can believe what you will. I have not held anything back. Every demand I've met. I don't know what else you want me to say." For the second time in the span of twenty minutes he was hearing the same question. Mr. Kinaki had asked Yachiru something eerily similar and now Unohana was demanding an answer.
"I want the damn truth!" she sneered, gone was the calm exterior the serene visage that she had carefully cultivated. "I want the truth about everything, the money, the weapons, the girl. What you are telling me and what I see with my own two eyes are very different things."
"Isn't it your job to find those answers?" Kenpachi asked with a glib smirk. "Did you not say you were the best at what you do?" Kenpachi opened his laptop and gave her a passing glance, "Are you giving up that easily?"
"Don't mess with me." Unohana ground out, her fingers balled into fists. "I'm going to be the one that brings your empire crashing to the ground. Just wait." Her anger was palpable, it seemed to choke the very air around him. She took a deep breath visibly relaxing, her fingers stilled at her side.
He thought she was going to say something else, but instead she turned on her heels and walked out. It could not have been a coincidence that both Unohana and Kinaki were asking the same questions. Immediately her reached for his cell and dialed up Ikkaku.
"Yea Boss?" Ikkaku answered casually.
"Are you still in the house?"
"No, I'm about 20 minutes from showtime. Why what's up?"
"Before you finish the job, find out who he's working for."
"Great I get to torture him too? What is it Christmas or something?" Ikkaku laughed. He wasn't sure what had happened to warrant such an order, but it was of no consequence to him. He was a master of the art of painful interrogation and his skills were getting rusty.
"Just make sure you get some answers." If touching Yachiru wasn't enough to warrant his death the possibility that he could be working for Unohana was the last nail.
"Sure thing boss." With that the line went dead. He was going to have to keep a closer eye on Yachiru and Unohana from then on.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Rukia was exhausted and nowhere closer to finding any evidence on Kurosaki. The past week she had spent most of her time canvasing the large cottage. He hadn't any visitors except the two men who had greeted them when they arrived.
He would excuse himself and be gone for about an hour which allowed her an hour reprieve from his constant surveillance. Not that she could do much in that time. Wherever this place was it wasn't a base of operations. It was like a holiday home, or some kind of safe house.
There were pictures everywhere. Ones of what appeared to be Kurosaki's family, others of his associates. The pictures of Ich and Kurosaki didn't seem too recent, but she didn't know what to make of it. In several of them he couldn't have been more than fourteen or fifteen. Maybe he has been working his way up over the years, finally settling into this position that commanded some respect.
Even though she had combed every inch of the cottage she had learned nothing. He was tight-lipped always preferring to discuss her life in the bureau. She had humored him at first trying to lure him into a false sense of comradeship. It never worked, the snippets he fed her were common knowledge.
Every time she started talking about Kurosaki, he gave her the same lines. He had interest in her and once he was ready, he would deal with her personally. So, was she to stay in isolation indefinitely? And by deal with her did he mean he would kill her? Ich never answered any of her questions always diverting her attention to something else.
She was relentless though; it wasn't in her blood to just give up. So, when changing the subject didn't work, he started changing tactics. He began a different kind of onslaught; it was so subtle, but she could feel the change in him. His tone and body language no longer indicated indifference.
His actions became casual, the brief touching, how close he would stand next to her or the look in his eyes. Almost like he was flirting with her, it wasn't playful or teasing like Renji's. It was very meticulous, and she couldn't figure out what purpose it served him. He must know that she would never entertain the possibility of sleeping with him.
Maybe it wasn't as serious as she was making it out to be, he was a man after all. Maybe he just wanted sex. Afterall they've been on the island, alone, for the past week maybe he was just horny and wanted to get off.
"Did you miss me?" he asked suddenly behind her. Had she been that lost in her thoughts that she hadn't heard him?
Rukia turned taking a step back, he was unbelievably close. If she breathed deeply their chests would touch. "Finished with your morning briefing?" she asked sardonically, trying to put some distance between them.
His hand shot out, grabbing her around her waist to still her. "Yes, actually. Now I can devote all my time to you. Whatcha wanna do today?" his fingers burned against her skin, even through the thick fabric of her dress.
Rukia refused to answer him, her lips in a firm line. After a while he'll give up and release her. Just a bit of perseverance was all it took to shake him. Not all the way, but at least to give her some space.
"Let me guess, you wanna talk about Kurosaki?" her eyes traveled to his lips as they formed each word.
she couldn't help the immediate 'yes' that escaped her lips.
"You're so easy." He chuckled releasing her and taking a step back. His long frame still held her prisoner against the mantle she had been inspecting just moments before. "I tell you what, if you let me fuck you, I'll tell you whatever you want to know."
Just as quickly she refused him, "Of course not!" this time she pushed him aggressively and he let her by. She had to get some space between them, "I will never compromise my integrity—" she started.
Ich's laughter cut her short, "Integrity." he asked leaning against the mantle, his gold flecked eyes examining her face. "This has nothing to do with what's right and wrong. I'm stuck on an island with nowhere to stick my dick, but you. I don't care what Kurosaki has planned for you. Kami knows when he's gonna decide that you are of no use to him."
"That has nothing to do with me." Rukia replied hotly, "You have two perfectly good hands, I'm sure you can handle that yourself."
He shrugged, his lips tilting up into a smirk, "You're right, I could. But where is the fun in that? I'm sure your p—"
Thank kami his phone rang ending his statement that she was sure to be vulgar. He glanced down at it briefly, then returned his gaze to her. "What is it?" he answered his voice sounded aggravated.
She should take this opening to remove herself from this situation, but the detective in her refused to pass it up. This could be her opportunity to gleam some, any, information about Kurosaki. He was silent for a moment, his face an unreadable mask.
"Tomorrow? What time will he be arriving?" he groaned this time turning away from her.
So, she was right, this was about Kurosaki. That's all she needed to hear. Rukia made her escape slipping silently out the door. She hurried back to her room and pulled out the diary she had been jotting down whatever information she had gathered.
If he was coming there did that mean he was going to be dealing with her personally? Was he going to kill her? No one had ever been in direct contact with him and lived. Maybe he was coming to discuss business with Ich and it had nothing to do with her. They seemed close, maybe it would just be a friendly visit?
Rukia's mind swam with the possibilities. She could well be dead by tomorrow night. How could she hope to survive, much less solve Hana's case? Unless… unless she found a way to- to what? Escape? All her efforts the past few days to find a means of escape had been futile.
On the far side of the island was another cottage, she figured that's where his two guards were stationed. About a mile from there was a hanger that had two small personal aircrafts, with no sign of the keys. She suspected either Ich or his guards had possession of them. She knew without a doubt she could take the two guards, it was just Ich that she was apprehensive about. But even getting the keys was no guarantee.
They were surrounded on all sides by water and as far as she could see there was only ocean. If, and that was a big If, she could commandeer one of the planes she would have no clue which direction to head. She could run out of gas or hit turbulent weather. There were so many variables she wouldn't be able to account for.
It would have to be a risk she would have to take. First, she'd have to find a way to get out of the house without him noticing. But what if he had the keys? She'd have to find a way to search him, or-or have his clothes off his person.
Rukia took a deep sigh. Was she willing to sacrifice her integrity for a chance of freedom? What if it didn't work out as she planned? What if she couldn't go through with it?
You've gone undercover before Rukia, she reminded herself, just think of this as another assignment. All she had to do was get him out of his clothes, make him relax, think she was into it. Once he was unsuspecting, she'd hit him over the head, search him and make her escape.
You can do this she mentally reassured herself. He already expressed that he wasn't opposed to sleeping with her so it would be easy to get him into bed. Rukia glanced up taking inventory of the things in the room. There were several candelabrums on the far side mantle, the lamps on both bedside tables and a medium sized glass vase on the end table.
First, she tested the weights of all three items. The candelabra felt like it was made of lead and had a nice weight in her hands. It'll do just nicely. So, she separated the two that were left on the mantle to even spacing and placed the third one in the crook between her bed and the bedside table. She fluffed the bed skirt out to camouflage it and took a step back to check how obvious it would be.
She could barely tell where it was, perfect. Rukia glanced at the clock across the room, it was still early in the day. If she could get it done now it would give her plenty of daylight hours. If it turned out he didn't have the keys she would have time to search the guards and figure out a way to fly off the island.
As if jump-started by the possibility of freedom, her heart started pounding in her chest. She knew there was going to be more to it than that, the consequences once he wakes up and finds her gone. She just couldn't think about that now. Once she found her way back to the bureau, she would have safety in numbers.
With a firm reign on her emotions Rukia exited her room to go find him. He was in his office, on the phone. "Just make sure everything is prepared." He stated then ended the conversation.
"Kurosaki will be here tomorrow." She said before he could speak.
"So, I hear." He replied with a slight shrug of his shoulder, "I could care less."
"He's coming to deal with me?" Rukia loosened her stance, dropping her arms from in front of her.
"Maybe." He rose from his seat and came towards her, "Whatever it is there's no way for you to change the outcome."
That's what you think, Rukia thought to herself. "I guess you are right." She replied, shrewdly licking her lips. She saw the way his eyes followed her tongue, were all men this easy? "Since this might be my last night, I was thinking that maybe I'd take you up on your offer."
"Ah so that's what this is," he chuckled. "You can feel the mortality of your situation now."
"Not really," Rukia answered mustering up all her bravado for what was to come. This was the only way for her to escape, it wouldn't get to a point where she couldn't control the situation. "I find you attractive. I think you can do the job better than I could alone. I don't care either way." She paused for a moment then turned and headed towards her room.
She could hear him following behind her, it was a wonder she hadn't thought of this sooner. Before they could reach her room, he grabbed her, pulling her flush against his hard body. "Is that a challenge?" He turned her face towards his roughly and kissed her.
His tongue dipped passed her opened lips searching for her own, he rubbed against it enjoying the erotic sensation it created. Her mouth opened up to him easily allowing him more access to taste her sweetness, he drank greedily taking his fill.
Rukia's head swam as she stood unable to resist the onslaught of his kiss. She hadn't expected him to kiss her so suddenly. This wasn't how she had envisioned it. She would do the leading, give him tentative kisses as she led him to the bed. Then tell him to strip while she remained fully clothed and waited for the right time to strike.
But this, this was not what she imagined at all. His kisses were hot, the heat spreading like wildfire through her body. Engulfing every one of her rational thoughts. She had to stop this, she pulled away, her breaths ragged. She needed time to think, she couldn't let it go on like this.
Behind her she could feel Ich's own heavy breathing against her ears, before he could reach for her again, she quickly stepped into her room. Being out of the bed was not part of the plan, she had to somehow get him into it.
He was right behind her; she was so aware of his eyes on her. The door slammed, and her blood began to thunder in her ears. Get ahold of yourself! She shouted inwardly. She had to be levelheaded and collect her bearings. She could do this; she could do this!
Rukia turned towards him the back of her knees hitting against the edge of the bed. He stalked towards her, a seductive grin on his lips. Ich pulled her quickly to him, kissing her hard, holding onto her arms as he pushed himself deep into her mouth. She had wanted to resist him, to push away but he held her so tightly she couldn't move.
When had his hands left hers? She couldn't think properly. He was already slipping the straps of her dress off her shoulders. His fingers greedily began their exploration of her body. She had to stop this, she had to get in control. She willed her body to pull away, to put some distance between them. But instead her own traitorous hands stayed at her side as he pushed her down to the bed.
Deftly he pulled off her panties, throwing them to the floor before dragging her legs apart. He stared down at her licking his lips; the action sent a spark straight to her core in anticipation. He knelt between her spread legs his mouth hungrily feasting on her tender flesh.
He kissed, licked, suckled her slick flesh until she couldn't take it anymore. She couldn't think of anything but him and having him ease the coiled spring that had settled in the pit of her stomach. "Please Ich..." she managed on a long exhale. He gave her what she was asking for, sucking her swollen bud into his lips roughly.
The room faded into nothingness as her orgasm took her floating above everything, above him and her it was just pure white bliss.
She hadn't even caught her breath before he was on her, kissing her, his big body pinning hers to the bed. When had he gotten naked? Her mind was in a sensual haze, nothing but the feel of his lean body on hers mattered at that moment.
"What do you want?" he asked his voice thick his eyes holding hers. He cupped her sensitive flesh, his fingers teasing her relentlessly, "Do you want me to fuck you?" he asked again, he sounded as if just talking was taking all his strength.
Why was he talking then? All she wanted was for him to just finish what he started. Maybe this was a domination thing? She didn't care, right now she just wanted to come again. "yes...please…" she answered her hips bucking against his.
He smirked triumphantly and drew her legs around him, in one swift movement her buried himself inside her. Rukia's eyes closed as she let out a ragged groan as he filled her completely.
He gave her no time to adjust, no time for her inner muscles to recover as he began thrusting into her. His pace was hurried and rough, his hands cupping the soft flesh of her bottom as he continued to drive them closer to a simultaneous peak.
His lips met hers in a scorching kiss as his hand came up to fondle her hard nipple through her bra. His breathing increased and his lips replaced his fingers drawing the tight bud into his lips. He sucked on it hungrily the added sensation sending her over the edge. Her body tightened against his and Ich's thrusts became less rhythmic; more involuntary as his own orgasm seized him. ~~
He laid there next to her afterwards with a satisfied sigh. A yawn escaped him, and he glanced over at her though hooded eyes. He wanted to say something, she could see it written on his face, but he remained silent a smile taking over his lips.
Rukia yawned, she was not the least bit tired. Her every sense was on alert, adrenaline rushing through her body. She closed her eyes and willed the thunder in her ears to calm down. she could lay there for a while; he was bound to fall asleep after all that exertion.
Rukia waited till she heard his soft snores beside her. What had she done! It was never supposed to get pass some light kissing and touching. It was never supposed to get that far. She had done something irreparable, not to mention the begging. She didn't have time to lament about it now, she would have plenty of time while flying.
Gingerly she slipped her body towards the edge of the bed, she tried to make as little movement as possible. Every now and then she paused to ascertain if he was still sleeping. Once she was close to the edge, she slinked over it. she laid there and listened for any ruffling on the bed.
Nimbly she crept towards their discarded clothes. She slipped her dress quietly over her head and sifted through his looking for anything useful. He carried nothing much in his pockets save his cellphone and two keys. Perfect! One of these had to work. If she didn't manage to get the plane working, she could call the captain and let him know what was going on.
Rukia glanced back at the bed where he still laid splayed out in the center. Her best bet would be to go out the patio window. She always kept it open, so it was easy for her to slip out. Once she was a safe distance away, she pulled out the cellphone.
Of course, it was password locked. Why did she think it would be that easy? He would not have been that stupid. Well, maybe once she was back at HQ, they would be able to get something from it. Her legs felt like jelly as she sprinted towards the hanger. The large hanger doors were opened and inviting.
She stopped listening for anything out of the norm, only the roar of the ocean greeted her. As she edged closer to the opened doors, she kept a watchful eye all around her. She could see both commuter planes sitting there just waiting for her to hijack one of them. She fingered the two keys in her hand, hopefully one of these worked and she wouldn't have to go take down the two guards.
Only when she was inside did Rukia realize that something was wrong. The hairs on the back of her neck bristled and a shiver ran down her spine.
"Going somewhere?" The impossibly tall man who had been flying the plane appeared from the shadows behind her.
"Off this damn island, don't try to stop me." She replied, non-plussed. She hadn't come this far to be stopped. She could outrun him, maybe lose him in the surrounding brush then double back and get into the plane.
That's what she was going to do, when he reached for her she kicked him in the shin and sprinted for the doors. She didn't make it. She felt his large arms encompass her slowly tightening around her chest until she couldn't breathe. Her head felt light and stars appeared at the back of her eyes. She heard more voices, but she couldn't distinguish the words as her mind slowly went blank.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"Ichimaru Gin." Gin answered staring at the unfamiliar number on the screen. They had just returned from the local market and he was about to prepare dinner.
"We need to talk." Came the clipped answer, the voice was very familiar.
"Nnoitra? This is a surprise. What's up?" He glanced towards the bedroom door, checking to make sure it was closed. He didn't want Ran to hear, knowing Nnoitra it wasn't going to be good.
"A few days ago, Tosen tried to kill me." Nnoitra said his casual tone belied the heaviness of his words.
"Yeah, tried being the key word. Did you return the favor?"
"The fucker limped away before I could finish the job."
"I'm surprised Aizen set his golden boy after you on his own. After I turned him down, I was sure he'd try to bring in some reinforcements." Even Aizen had admitted that he knew Tosen wouldn't be able to handle Nnoitra, not one on one at least.
"I had expected you."
"I have no problem with you. We aren't friends, but that doesn't make us enemies. Anyways, I've put all that shit behind me, I'm retired." Gin replied. They had grown up together and from the beginning he had learned to not mess with him. They worked together and that became the extent of their relationship.
"So, you would not want to join me in destroying him?"
"You mean killing him?" He had thought of it before, but ultimately as long as Aizen left him alone he didn't care about what happened to him. He just wanted to live the rest of his life freely.
"There is more than one way to skin a cat. I want to completely decimate all that he is before I take his life." The intense hatred that resonated in Nnoitra's voice shocked him. He didn't know what prompted Nnoitra to want to do this now, but it had to have been serious. Tosen trying to kill him was nothing. Between the three of them he couldn't compare in skill. Something else must have happened to rile him up.
"I'll think about it." He had other commitments, Matsumoto being his top priority, and this thing with Ishida. He couldn't leave her alone while he went off on a personal vendetta.
"Don't take your fuckin' time. You know where to find me." With that Nnoitra hung up.
Gin frowned as he stared down at his cellphone, that was a very strange call. He could count on one hand the number of times Nnoitra had gone out of his way to contact him. All of those times had been when he was still working for Aizen.
"Was that Ishida?" Matsumoto asked toweling her hair as she came out of the bedroom. Even though they had spent so much time together, just seeing her always took his breath away. this was what true contentment was, being with that one person who made life worth living.
"No, just an old colleague. Do you like the mountains?" He put on a bright smile, hoping to conceal the turbulent thoughts that were running through his mind.
She looked puzzled, "are you trying to change the subject?" she stood in front of him one hand on her hip, the other paused with the towel pressed against her cheek.
He rose from his seat and leaned in close to her, "You look good enough to eat right now." Gin said as he planted a light kiss on her parted lips.
"You are changing the subject." She said with a pout, "Is something wrong?" She was beginning to learn his tells, any time he gave her that smile she knew something was up. His emotions didn't show on his face, but the tilt of his lips always gave him away.
Gin sighed, "Ya got me Ran, I can't keep nothin from ya. I may have to make a trip for work." Technically he wasn't lying to her, killing Aizen would just be completing unfinished business.
"To the mountains?" she supplied with a frown, she didn't like where this was going.
"No, you'd be going to the mountains. It wouldn't be safe to take you with me."
"I could just stay here."
"It's not safe here by yourself. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if you got hurt and I had the ability to protect you." Living with her he's gotten to know the real Rangiku, the woman at the bar was an illusion. The real Matsumoto was shy, and funny, and just a bit silly after a few glasses of wine. Her smiles were always genuine, and her laughter was like music to his ears. He couldn't imagine what he would do if anything happened to her.
"Ok so let me go with you then."
"It's way too dangerous. I'm meeting an informant; things could go south in an instant. In the mountains you'll be safe there." He gave her a smile he hoped was reassuring.
"When do you have to leave?" she asked with a dejected sigh. She didn't have it in her to fight with him about this. It's been a few days since Ishida had gotten in contact with them and she was fearing the worse. Gin was a generous host, he tried to keep her mind off of everything by doing normal and mundane things like going to the market and cooking. It helped to keep her relaxed, but she couldn't help the anxiety that kept creeping back.
"In a few days. That will give me time to get ya settled." He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her again. "Don't worry your pretty little head about it. Ok Hun?"
There was a knock on the door, Matsumoto pulled away her heart suddenly beating fast, "Could it be Ishida and Orihime?" she asked turning to go answer it.
"Wait Ran," he stopped her, "He hasn't called me." He pulled her behind him and drew a handgun from the holster on his side. "Wait right here, I'll see who it is." She nodded standing completely still as if she was glued to that one spot.
The man outside his door was a stranger, but he also didn't look like a local. With his finger on the trigger he waited patiently to see if he would knock again. ~
Urahara knocked once more, waiting for the occupant he knew was home to decide whether or not he wanted to open up. He had tried to be patient with Yoruichi; giving her space to think, not pressing her for more information. Nothing seemed to work, she just snuck around behind his back.
Time was running out and he couldn't sit around while she decided if she could still trust him. So, he was following up on the 'leads' that she had given him. There wasn't much else he could learn from Nnoitra at the moment so the last person on his list was Gin Ichimaru.
To be honest he had never heard of him before and nothing suspicious had come up in his report. But if he may know something, he wouldn't leave any stone unturned.
Finally, the door swung open and a man just bit taller than himself stood there. "Can I help ya?" he asked, his frame blocking his view of the inside. Urahara could see one of his hands tucked into side of jacket, probably holding a gun.
Urahara stuck out his hand in a friendly gesture, "Good morning Mr. Ichimaru. My names Kisuke Urahara. I'm with the federal bureau of investigation, may I come in?"
"FBI?" he chuckled, taking his hand in a firm shake, "What do I owe the pleasure?"
"I'm following up on some leads, and your name popped up. My, Its hot out here. I'm not used to this humidity." Urahara commented using the brim of his hat to fan himself.
"Nothing like Tokyo is it? Come in." Gin led him inside towards the living room. When they entered Rangiku quickly came to his side.
"Afternoon, I'm Kisuke Urahara." Urahara greeted her pleasantly.
"Nice to meet you, I'm Rangiku" She replied, "would you like something to drink?"
"Thanks Ran, why don't you get us some lemonade?" Gin said ushering her into the kitchen, "Then can you please start dinner for me?"
Once she was gone, he turned towards Urahara, "In what context did my name pop up?"
What part did this man serve in this whole business of Yoruichi and Aizen? He seemed pleasant enough, his whole demeanor was the opposite of all the other major players. "I'm working on a case, I'm sure you've heard about the murder of the statesman and his wife and daughter?"
"Yes, it was all over the news. Did they find the surveillance tapes?" Gin asked taking a seat.
"No, they are still missing." So, he was involved. Those details were never released to the public. He took a seat opposite him and took a moment to study him. He was unassuming, his face was amicable, his demeanor relaxed.
"Ah, Thanks Ran-san." Matsumoto returned with the drinks and offered them both one.
"Thank you," Urahara said politely taking a sip of the refreshing liquid.
She disappeared into the kitchen once more. "Amazing isn't it? Beautiful and great in the kitchen. What more could a man ask for?" Gin asked placing his half empty glass on the table next to him.
"Well I have to agree with you on that." He too placed his glass on the table in front of him, "How do you know about the missing tapes?"
"Straight to the point." Gin said with a chuckle, his teal eyes alit with laughter. "I've heard rumors."
Urahara sighed, he wasn't here to play games. He wondered if Yoruichi was just sending him on a wild goose chase. "What kind of rumors?" he asked.
"I'm sure you've already heard them." He shrugged and sat back in his seat.
"Humor me." Urahara answered courtly, he wanted to throw his glass across the room in frustration.
"There's a rumor that said statesman was deeply involved with a man named Aizen Sousuke, have you heard of him?"
"Of course."
"Their business relationship soured, and he threatened to go to the police with incriminating video of several murders that Aizen had committed. Of course, Aizen wouldn't let that happen so he sent someone to collect the evidence and kill his whole family." Gin still kept in touch with some of his old connections, just to keep abreast in Aizen's dealings.
"And that person took all the footage and disappeared." Urahara provided, not liking what this meant. Even though Yori had denied adding murder to her repertoire, wasn't this proof?
"Not exactly." Gin said, a Cheshire grin on his lips, "I hear that while the murders were being committed, one of Aizen's disgruntled employees stole all the evidence including the surveillance footage." When he had heard the details, he hadn't realized it was Yoruichi, not until she had mentioned it herself.
Urahara inwardly breathed a sigh of relief, so she really hadn't committed the murders. She wasn't a lost cause. "What happened to that employee?" he asked, almost certain of what he was going to say.
"She went on the run. I hear she was being framed for the murders." He paused for a moment, it seemed like he was weighing his next words. "I'm only speculating here but you being here has nothing do to with following leads. Am I right?"
"You're right," Urahara answered honestly. Yori knew what she was doing when she mentioned his name. She hadn't known if she could trust him enough to tell him all the details without him thinking she had committed the murders. So she sent him his way.
"Yoruichi is a good friend of mine, and I suspect you care a great deal about her to come all the way out here to find me. Right now, she doesn't know who to trust, and she's probably very afraid of what might happen to her. She needs someone who's going to be there for her unconditionally." Gin said his countenance somber. "I'll help you if you can promise me that."
The swift change in his demeanor hinted at the type of man he was really dealing with. The weight of his words hung in the air, "Yori has always been my main concern, even when we weren't together." Which was the truth, he tried to keep tabs on her. Going as far as wiping her record clean periodically just in case she ever changed her mind and wanted to get on the straight and narrow.
Gin regarded him with veiled emotion, "All this centers on one man, Aizen. You want that evidence to put him away fairly, but who's to tell his fingers won't reach far enough to get him off the hook?"
"That's not for me to say, it's just my job to bring him in."
"So, if he gets off with a slap on the wrist, that would be justice? What then would happen to Yoruichi? Do you think he would easily let everything go?"
"What are you proposing?" He was sure what he was saying. This man in front of him, no matter how good-natured he seemed was a killer. He had gotten the same vibe when he was with Nnoitra, it was dangerous and simmered just beneath the surface.
Gin let out a sigh and a grin came to his lips, "Taking care of the problem, directly." He didn't elaborate, but he didn't need to. "I'm going to meet with an associate of mine—"
"You mean Nnoitra?" the moment Nnoitra had called him and agreed to help, Urahara knew he was planning something. Putting Neliel in witness protection was not to keep her from him, it was to put her somewhere safe until everything was over with.
Gin chuckled, "Yea. I guess Aizen did something to make him fucking mad. I've my own reasons to want him taken care of myself."
Urahara threw a glance towards the kitchen, "She has something to do with this?"
"Yeah. Her sister witnessed him killing someone and he took her prisoner. Aizen hired me to kill her. Now I've done my share of wickedness, but I couldn't do it. I just wanted to know the backstory and I got sucked in by her pretty face." A pretty face, a sexy body and a big heart. Isn't that how trouble usually started?
"I see," he knew that no matter what he said, they would take care of him. Knowing Nnoitra it wouldn't be pretty. In his position, he couldn't outwardly consent to take part in it, but he wouldn't do anything to stop them either. "I have the feeling that things are gonna get messy real soon."
Silence settled on them as they both contemplated that statement. "I want to send Ran somewhere safe when I leave. We've been waiting for Ishida to rescue her sister but knowing Nnoitra I think he's gonna do something reckless. He's not a patient man and he won't wait long before he acts."
"I may know a few places." Urahara said, "I am head of my division, I can pull some strings, easily make her disappear."
"No, I don't want that. I want her to be relaxed, but still have open contact so I know she's taken care of. I know a guy that runs a little onsen in Kurokawa, I was thinking of sending her there."
Urahara knew the guy also, Tessai. He was a retired agent that married and decided to go into the hot spring business. Their paths shouldn't have crossed, but he wasn't going to ask how they did. "Sounds like a good idea, with Tessai there you wouldn't have to worry about her safety while you're gone."
The door behind them opened and Matsumoto popped out holding one of his serving plates. "Dinners almost ready, are you staying Mr. Urahara?" Matsumoto asked.
He could smell something delicious, but he really shouldn't. He had to get home to Yori who no doubt was up to more mischief in his absence. "Thank you, but no. I still have a few errands to run before it gets too late. It was nice meeting you Rangiku."
"Likewise," she answered and went back to setting the table.
Gin rose to his feet, "I'll see you out."
"Thank you for the information." Urahara pulled out on of his business cards and handed it to him. "If you need anything, just let me know."
Gin chuckled, "Thanks, I may be calling you real soon." He pocketed the card and his grin vanished, "Take care of Yori. She's been through a lot."
"You don't have to worry, I'm not gonna let anything happen to her." Urahara replied as he walked out.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"You're up early." His voice was like velvet behind her.
Orihime didn't pause as she continued her way towards the large dining room. "I'm not feeling well, I think some food will settle my stomach." She replied sweetly. No matter how much he revolted her, she had to remember that this was bigger than that.
"Morning sickness?" he asked snidely, suddenly grabbing her and stopping her movements. He turned her around to face him, his brown eyes scrutinizing her. "You look like hell."
She felt like hell, that stuff Ishida had given her worked fast. "Thanks, I'm glad I'm no longer appealing to you. Now let me go before I hurl all over your expensive suit." She pulled her hand from his, stumbling back as he let her go.
Orihime reached out to grab something to stabilize herself, she hadn't thought it would make her feel so dreadful. "I'm not pregnant, I think It's a stomach bug." She hurriedly clarified; she didn't want the opposite to happen. He was meant to leave her alone, not be even more suspicious.
A charming smile came to his lips, "That's perfect, I'm having company over tonight. You should rest, if you need something just have one of the maids bring it up for you."
"I'm perfectly capable of—"
"No, my dear, that wasn't a suggestion." The smile vanished just as quickly as it had appeared, and he grabbed her by the arm pulling her back in the direction she had just come. "You are going to stay in your room, I don't have time to babysit you today. Do you understand?" his grip on her arm tightened.
Orihime nodded, suddenly feeling sick. He released her as last night's dinner made an abrupt appearance.
"Damnit!" he yelled sharply pushing her from him, "Get out of my sight."
Orihime stumbled the rest of the way to her room. She could hear him angrily yelling for one of the maids to come clean up the mess. She had not planned for that to happen, but it served its purpose. That was one her best performances thus far. Aizen would definitely leave her alone for the rest of the day.
A soft sigh escaped her as she locked the door behind her. She had to get the sour taste out of her mouth. She brushed her teeth contemplating the sallow woman that stared back at her. Gone was the carefree girl of her past, once she was out of her she knew she would never be the same. The world was nothing like she had imagined it. Living with Rangiku had been like living in a bubble, she had protected her from all the harsh realities. But she couldn't live like that anymore, until Aizen was gone it would never be over.
"You can do this," She whispered to herself. Ishida had gone through so much trouble planning and arranging and getting everything prepped there was no time now for doubting herself. She had to have confidence in her abilities. The hardest part mostly was through, she wouldn't have to see him again.
Once she was finished, she knelt next to the sink and retrieved her notes and the throwaway that Ishida had given her that first day. She wanted to call him just to hear his voice, just to have him reassure her that he was confident in her. Over the past few weeks, he had become her lifeline, the few interactions they had gave her hope and the will to be strong.
"Yes Orihime?" his voice sounded even softer than usual.
"I- um…" she didn't know what to say now that he was on the phone. His voice alone had calmed her, all the anxiety that she had been feeling washed away.
"I know you may be apprehensive, but I have faith in you Orihime. You've been so strong thus far, just a few more hours and everything will be over." He assured her. He always knew what to say to stop her worrying.
"Thanks Ishida." The line went silent and she sighed to herself. There was nothing much she could do now, just wait for tonight. ~~
The sun was hanging low when her alarm woke her from her nap. She didn't feel refreshed at all, her body felt lethargic and her limbs weak. How was it still in her system? Orihime shook herself awake climbing out of the bed with a groan.
Once the fog in her mind started to dissipate, she reached for the house phone that sat on her bedside table. When the line picked up, she asked for something to eat and hung up. She scrubbed at her eyes, rubbing the last bits of tiredness from them. It was showtime.
Orihime quickly made her way into the bathroom, it seemed like forever before there was a knock on her door. "Come in!" she yelled cracking the door to peer out.
"I've brought your dinner." The maid replied pulling a cart into the room behind her. "Is there anything else Ms. Hime."
Orihime breathed a sigh of relief her heart beating rapidly in her chest. "I-I do need help with something." Her voice came out rather breathless. She swallowed the nervousness that gripped her entire being and tried again. "I'm not feeling well, can you help me in here please?"
With no hesitation the maid approached her pulling the door slightly closed behind her. Immediately she began to remove her clothing and Orihime did the same. They didn't speak as they undressed, time didn't permit.
Orihime noticed once she was naked that they were about the same height but not build. "don't worry about them," the maid said as she pulled out some bandages from the folds of her skirt, "I'll help you. I'm Nemu."
"Thank you, Nemu." Orihime replied as they began to quickly bind her breast. At first the constriction was suffocating; her breaths were shallow and labored.
"Take small breaths at first." Nemu instructed her as her fingers worked in her hair, deftly braiding the long strands into one thick braid. "It will get easier once you forget they are there."
That was easy for her to say, Orihime thought grimly. Slowly the air filled her lungs naturally and she didn't feel the pressure quite as much.
"Better?" she asked already wearing Orihime's plain sleeping set.
"Yes, thank you." If circumstances were different, she would have admired the 'cuteness' of the maids' uniform and how perfect it fit her.
Nemu pulled off her hair, revealing a lush head of strawberry blonde hair like hers. "Put on my wig," she glanced down at her watch, "Hurry it's been a few minutes longer than anticipated already."
Orihime tucked her braided hair beneath the silky strands of ebony hair and admired herself briefly in the mirror. She looked like a completely different person. "Wow, I don't look like me at all." She murmured in awe.
"That's the point. Once you leave the room go out the backdoor towards the employee quarters. Ishida will be waiting for you there. Now go." She turned towards the bathroom door.
"What about you Nemu?" she asked as Nemu made her way towards the food cart.
"Don't worry about me." She answered pulling it to the bed with her. She sat with her back facing her and opened the lid. "Just go."
Orihime didn't have to be told twice, "Thank you," she whispered as she walked out. She knew her away around his mansion fairly well, she knew exactly where the service entrance was and how to get there.
The kitchen was bustling and the scents that filled the room were magnificent. He probably spared no expense for his little party tonight, he had to impress all his affluent partners. While she would be locked away upstairs with no one knowing just what kind of monster he really was.
No one stopped her or gave her a second look as she walked out towards the large housing barracks behind the massive garden. It was just as busy as, the staff that lived there, and the remaining grounds men prepared for receiving the incoming guests.
For a moment she didn't know where to go from there, she stood in the middle of all the hustle feeling lost and overwhelmed. The heat of the bright lights, the lingering effects of the drug, the tightness of her bindings it was all too much. The anxiety and the weight of the whole operation suddenly consumed her, and she faltered trying to find something to hold on too.
"Hime," his voice was right next to her, his arms felt warm and secure and comforting. "I'm here, everything will be alright."
Orihime let him lead her away, to where she didn't care. She knew it, wherever it was, she would be safe from Aizen and his wickedness. The noise of the great hall faded away; the bright lights ebbed into a soft glow. "Take a deep breath," he softly instructed her, his hand gently stroking her head.
She complied finally feeling the stress leave her body, it felt so easy to breath, to just lay in his arms while nothing else mattered.
Ishida allowed her a few minutes to calm down. "We have to go now Hime." He stilled his gently caresses and pulled away to look into her face, "In about thirty minutes the gates will be closed to leaving personal. Understand?"
She nodded, straightening herself with a disconsolate sigh. "I understand, what do I need to do?"
Ishida turned away from her going to the closet on the opposite of the bedroom. He took out several pieces of clothing and brought them over to her. They were the same hunter green that he wore, and she understood immediately what they were going to do.
Without thinking she began to undress. She slipped her fingers beneath the intricate slip of lace that covered the zipper and worked it down the full length of the short dress. It pooled at her feet and all of a sudden, she was aware what she was doing. She hastily grabbed the clothes from him and began to pull them on.
Once she was done, she turned back to him, to find he had turned his back to her, "I'm- I'm ready." She managed somewhat embarrassed.
He inspected her with his eyes then nodded, "Perfect." hearing him saying something like that made her heart skip a beat and her face flush. Being cooped up for so long must be doing something to her brain, making her loopy for something so simple. He probably wasn't even saying she was perfect, just that the disguise was. She needed to get a hold of her rampant thoughts. In a few days all this will be over, and she would never see him again.
"Here, these were Nemu's credentials. When we get to the gate, don't say anything. It'll take a few minutes and then you'll be free."
"What's going to happen to her?" Orihime asked as she looked down into Nemu's solemn face.
"She'll be fine, trust me." He responded with a reassuring smile. Orihime returned it briefly, so far, he had never lied to her. If he said it would be alright, she believed him one hundred percent. "Let's go." She nodded, following behind him silently.
There were three other men dressed like they were, "Finally, I thought you two would never get done in there. This is the last time I allow you to bring your girlfriend with you." An older man with a rough face said his voice rife with irritation.
"Sorry sir, it will not happen again." Ishida apologized with a slight bow of his head.
"It was my fault sir, I'm sorry." Orihime added remorsefully.
"Make sure it doesn't." he answered as he led the group away, "I don't know about you two, but I don't want to be stuck here another week."
As instructed, she didn't say another word, she sat silently in the seat next to Ishida. Only presenting her badge to the gate keeper when prompted. She completely removed herself from the situation in her mind. She imagined what kind of face Rangiku would make once they were reunited. Would she bawl her eyes out or be too shocked to say anything?
"Ok, let them through!" she heard the boisterous order from the gate keeper and then they were moving. Speeding farther and farther away from a prison she had thought inescapable and closer to freedom.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"This is a big jump from nursing Ms. Higaya, what prompt this decision?" her interviewer, Mr. Reid, asked as he glanced up from the folder in front of him.
Nel thought for a moment about how to answer that, "My father passed away. He was the only thing really keeping me there. Plus, my husband has always wanted to live a quieter life." Those were reasonable answers, right? It has been years since she'd have to do any sort of interview.
"Your husband, what does he do?" He picked up his pen and scribbled something in his folder.
"He works for a sales company in Tokyo, he's going to be transferred here in a few weeks." Truthfully, this was the story that Mr. Urahara had fed her. For now, he didn't think she needed any more protection because he was sure that Nnoitra would not be able to find her. But later on, if need be, he would have someone pose as her husband to add that extra layer.
Mr. Reid was silent as he flipped through some papers in her folder. It was a few minutes before he set everything down and glanced back at her. "Everything seems to be in order. Can you start tomorrow Mrs. Higaya?"
"Yes sir, what time should I be here?" He rose from his seat and she followed suit reaching for his hand as he outstretched it in a firm shake.
"Usually administration arrives at seven thirty, Ms. Fukada will be training you. She's very punctual and expects the same."
"Thank you, Mr. Reid. I will see you then." She bowed slightly and grabbed her purse and walked out.
It had been just over a week since she had arrived in this small town on the outskirts of nowhere. It was a nice enough, tranquil and picturesque. The local people were very nice, even offering to help her move in when she had arrived. It was very rustic, not at all what she was used to.
She could walk home from the small health based financial business that she was going to be working at. It was very quiet, and the way back was through a beautiful central park; It gave her a bit of exercise and time to think.
The sale of her father's house had been swift and final. It was a whirlwind of paperwork and meetings that lasted a few days. There was nothing left but the large sum of money and a feeling of uncertainty. Was she doing the right thing selling her family home? What was going to happen when all this was over, and it was safe for her to return?
It was a wonder how she had survived the last few days. Her mind plagued with thoughts of her father and the circumstances of his death. To think that she had sought comfort in the arms of the man who had systematically plotted the murder of her father. How could she have not seen it before?
The same feelings she had felt when her father was murdered now suffocated her. The anguish of knowing she had no one left, no one to reassure her that this was just a fleeting pain and there would be happiness right around the corner.
Through their whole relationship she never felt anything real from him in terms of emotion. She had craved the warmth and contentment that her father's death had taken away from her. The intense passion that they shared, the way he held her gave her hope that maybe he could be the rock she needed. In a perfect world that would have been true, she would have been happy to just have him beside her. She continually lied to herself saying that Nnoitra was capable of love. Even though she could see the deep pain and anger in his eyes when they were together, she had closed her mind off to it.
Even now with everything she knew about him, her heart still couldn't let go. She loved Nnoitra and a part of him would always be with her. A part that she wouldn't be able to just let go so easily-
"Excuse me," she was so lost in her thoughts she didn't realize she was out of the park and in a more populated sidewalk.
Nel paused, "I'm sorry," she apologized stepping aside so the man could pass.
"You're new here right?" he asked, outstretching his hand to her, "I'm Shiyori."
"Nice to meet you I'm um, I'm Hikari." Nel answered shaking his hand, she kept forgetting her new moniker. "How did you know?"
He chuckled, "This is a small town, everyone knows everyone here. I think we are neighbors actually, welcome to the neighborhood." He gave her a charming smile, his fingers holding hers.
"Thank you," she pulled her hand from his, "see you around." She said politely and walked away.
It didn't take her but a few minutes to get home. Nel sighed as she opened the door and kicked off her heels. It was always so quiet and eerie, it unnerved her. The stillness reminded her of that night. She could still feel the iciness of Nnoitra's silver eyes on her as he shot her so easily. There was absolutely no emotion on his face. How could she love someone like that?
Nel shook those unsettling thoughts from her mind, that was in the past. He would soon be caught and locked away forever, she had to forget about him. She would have to move on, think about her future. Even if that too was uncertain, she knew there was something to look forward to.
She made her way into her bedroom and slipped off her jacket. She would just take a quick nap before she made dinner. She glanced around the tiny room, a huge contrast from what she was used to.
It was a quaint one-bedroom house with a small yard. It would just be the two of them, it should be enough space to start off. If not, she had the money from her father, and her own bit of savings she could always get something bigger.
Like her father's house? Even though it was huge, it never seemed that way because it was always filled with love and laughter. She didn't have many friends growing up, but she was never lonely because she had the love of both her parents. Her mother was always present, and her father was very affectionate to them both. She never felt alone, never wanted for anything.
She wanted that stability now, but it was impossible. Nnoitra was never going to be in their lives. And she was going to be alone through all this.
A/N : Hope you guys enjoyed it!