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.

63. Chapter 63

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.

Word Count: 353

AN: A little sibling fluff this chapter.

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A Kiss for Shelter

Wise Woman

The shoji slid closed and the siblings were left to their own silent musings.

The young lieutenant was attempting to keep the grin from her face whilst her brother was practically preening (as much as one can do so stoically).

Rukia let her amusement filter away however as she began to dwell on her (hopefully) good intentions. It was the first time she would presume to offer her elder brother advice and she was reasonably nervous. She cleared her throat and garnered his full attention, yet avoided his gaze in hesitation.

Byakuya eyed his sister coolly, well aware that she had something on her mind, "Rukia, do you not approve of my actions?"

The young woman's mouth gaped open a moment before she vigorously shook her head, "Oh no, Nii-sama- I think you have been quite appropriate under the circumstances!"

"Hn." He agreed with a brusque nod.

But his sister grew pensive and she tapped at her bottom lip with her finger, "However…"

The noble was tempted to frown in response, but instead waited patiently.

Finally her eyes settled on him and she visibly straightened in confidence.

"I think the best thing you can offer her is freedom- space, Nii-sama. She values her independence and that's understandable. Find a way to protect her without- smothering her." Rukia relayed slowly. She paused and took a breath, "You have to give her room to be who she is… As you have done for me." Her eyes were alight with truth- her devotion and gratitude shining through as her voice softened.

There was no pause as he reached out and let his fingers feather through the hair at the side of her face in a caress. The show of affection was brief, but poignant as such displays were rare and a testament to the evolution of their relationship.

Rukia's bashful side collided pleasantly with her unfettered happiness, this resulting in a burst of pleasant color across her cheeks.

"Nii-sama… You must be patient… I sincerely doubt she can hold out against you forever." Rukia stated with a shy smile.

His gaze grew thoughtful and he gave another nod, "Hn."