Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.
Word Count: 277
A Kiss for Shelter
Popping Bubbles
She had been hesitant to ask, afraid for a moment the woman would not appreciate the offer. But Xochitl had merely smiled.
To Rukia it was a little strange how simple it seemed to be at peace with the stranger. Perhaps it was their similar backgrounds- or maybe just the way Xochitl had no inclination for passing judgment.
The onsen was always the perfect temperature and Rukia could always find utter bliss within its steamy confines.
Soon enough, however her curiosity got the better of her.
"Xo…What will you do, once the baby is born?" Rukia focused on the sponge in her hand as she swept it gently across the woman's back.
She heard her sigh, "I'm not sure…"
Rukia's movements slowed, the sudsy circles becoming smaller as she hesitated. Finally she angled her head slightly so that she could see the side of the woman's face and pondered, "Would it not be advantageous simply to stay here, then?"
The silence that followed was complete and weighed uncomfortably on the young woman's brow as she frowned.
"I don't think that's… I can't."
"Why?" The scrubbing stopped and Rukia, never quite able to hold her tongue when she was beyond confusion moved to face Xochitl.
"Why?" She asked again in earnest when she held the woman's gaze.
After a moment of braving the precocious and fearsome gaze of the shorter girl, Xochitl sighed and dropped her eyes to the water below the rock she perched on, "Because the freedom of choice shouldn't be overlooked. Because... I can't be other than what I am. And no child should have to put themselves aside for the dictates of others."