A Kiss for Shelter

by ArsinoetheXXVII

What if the courtesan was not the first to fall? One night is all it takes. And in Fate's hands a seed takes root. An honorable man will take responsibility and face the unexpected. Beyond passion, beyond possession and obligation he'll want for more, but find a soul unwilling to bow to him. Still with a little effort Byakuya might get what he'd forgotten he always wanted.

18. Chapter 18

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.

Word Count: 262

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A Kiss for Shelter

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Her words were crisp and unforgiving, "This is not a teahouse."

The breeze toyed with his midnight locks and his grey eyes looked as lovely as silver in the sunlight.

"Is it not? Then what sort of house is it?" His retort was smooth and seemingly effortless and her hand squeezed around the handle in her hand in frustration.

Was he teasing her?

She turned her head, jaw tight, but her words were soft almost pleading, "Not one a gentleman such as yourself should be seen visiting."

"Hn." Was his response and it dug fingers of irritation into her skin.

She straightened her spine, sitting back on her feet as best she could, "My mistress is just within if you have business to discuss." An uncomfortable sensation had started in her belly and she felt anxious to be rid of his presence.

When he did not reply her agitation flared.

"As I said, my lord, this is not a place you should idle. If there is something you- want- then- say so quickly." Her heartbeat was quicker than she would like and she began to feel the familiar rise of bile in her throat.

He took a step, looming so that the sun was obscured by his form and he was no more than a silken-voiced shadow, "As I said I wish to partake in a cup of tea."

Her stomach clenched hard and she gasped, fists pressing into her middle. To cover her discomfort she stood quickly- or attempted to. Another sharp pain shot through her and her balance was thrown.