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.

24. Chapter 24

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach

Word Count: 392

AN: Just wanted to offer my gratitude to all following/favoriting. And much love for reviews- always happy to see them! I do really like to see people's opinions of Byakuya in the fiction and in general-thanks!

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A Kiss for Shelter

Unashamed

Byakuya strode with purpose through the Seireitei, taking streets not often frequented by shinigami, toward home.

The girl paced a few steps behind him in thoughtful silence and he was both anxious about the quiet as well as grateful for it.

But soon enough as they came close to the gates of the Kuchiki compound, she called to him. He drew to a halt, to turn and look down at her expectantly.

"Do you really mean to do this?" She asked, sounding slightly breathless.

"Yes." He responded instantly.

Her lips parted and then pursed as she looked down, considering. She mused aloud, "But… to be discrete… How… Perhaps… Perhaps to be introduced as a servant-,"

"No. That will not do." He countered firmly, "In your state any labor is ill-advised."

She nearly replied in protest, but instead bit her lip.

"Indeed," He added as he gazed over her head, "You will need to have some authority to make your requests known."

Xochitl could not stay silent, "My lord, please... I am unashamed of what I am, but in your society the views of women in my profession are not favorable. Serving staff are often more condemning than the elite they serve. They will not cater to a courtesan."

A flash of lightning passed behind his gaze at her opposition. He looked into her eyes, stating, "They will respect my wishes."

She bowed her head to him, but turned away folding her arms beneath her chest to pace a couple steps. His eyes followed her. The way she stood seemed to accentuate the fact that her waist was yet so small in comparison to the flare of her hips and he was reminded of how soft her curves were.

He closed his eyes, swiftly banishing all thoughts of the act that had culminated in their current situation.

When she turned back to him he noted the look he was fast becoming familiar with.

"You are certain you are unconcerned about the rumors that might be wrought?"

He gave a nod and again could not help but look past her, his sister's face surfacing in his mind as he said, "If I cared what others think I would have nothing good in this life."

This gave her pause and she stared at the almost wistful expression on his normally indifferent face. She took an audible breath.