Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach
Word Count: 686
AN: A longer chapter to set the stage for the ups and downs to come. Thanks for the interest all!
A Kiss for Shelter
Decided
"I will keep this child." She announced, her back to him, shoulders squared and spine straight.
He was silent and she could only feel relieved.
She lifted her chin further and prepared to depart, feeling no more words needed to be said.
"I want the child." His voice rang out firmly and she froze, a chill travelling her spine- fear holding her stiffly.
He watched her carefully, could see her shoulders rise and fall with heavier breaths. Finally she turned to him and her eyes were dark, their depths wavering.
"Pardon, my lord, but I do not ask for your help, nor do I need it. This child is my own and I… will not simply give it over to you." Her tone was soft, but there was conviction in her accented voice.
He couldn't help, but bristle slightly. It was more than obvious she was trying to take the decision from his hands.
"I did not pose a question. Nor am I simply offering." He said coldly.
Her patient look shifted, her voice low as she looked up at him from beneath her lashes, "And I'm no breed mare to simply act as some surrogate to a noble who wishes an heir."
Her words seemed to ring in the hallway, no hint of hesitation. Byakuya could not help but admire her as he realized she had a sense of pride.
His studied her as he took a step forward and saw her eyes grow cautious.
He chose his words carefully, his tone lacking its icy inflections, "I meant no disrespect to you. Nor did I mean to imply that I would try to force your hand… Unohana-Taichou made it quite clear that without the support of an individual with high reiatsu who might temper that of the child's- its life might be forfeit… I wish the child to live."
The wariness in her gaze faltered as she considered him. Slowly she spoke, "You wish me to carry the child to term…but then what?"
He took a breath. It was impossible to ignore the strength of emotion he felt when he contemplated the life created- one of his blood. The pull toward the energy housed in the woman's womb was unlike any he'd ever felt. He had never thought to be given another chance- a hope for continuing his line. He did not wish to give up a chance to know that life… Yet… how could they compromise? How could they come together to make this situation ideal for them both? With slight chagrin he realized the future didn't matter as much as the present. For now it was tantamount that she agree to his assistance for the sake of the child.
"Then I will leave any and all decisions to you as the mother." He conceded, eyes closed.
He missed the parting of her lips and the look of surprise that crossed her face.
Who was this man, who would so easily yield to a courtesan?
Her heart was suddenly pounding and she wondered why. Pressing a hand just below her ribs she bit her lip. She closed her eyes and breathed deeply to steady her heartbeat. When her eyes opened they had lost their fire. Softly she prompted, "Unohana-san said that I must remain near one of above average reiatsu…How…"
She did not hear him approach but when she looked up he was gazing down at her with an unreadable expression only a space away.
"My estate is extensive. You would have full access to all of its facilities, if you so wished." His grey eyes were assured and she was unable to look away.
An audible breath escaped her, "You mean to take me into your home? I am a courtesan- the rumors would be devastating to a man like you." The incredulity in her eyes did not deter him and he remained silent, steadfast.
"Come." Was all he said as he moved past her to affect a measured walk down the Fourth's main corridor.
Speechless she turned to watch him for a time before she scurried forward to try to catch him.