Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.
Word Count: 429
AN: I loooovvveee Division Eleven!
A Kiss for Shelter
Fair Warning
Renji walked the darkened Rukon streets, inhaling the cold eagerly, his throat still raw from the dangerous blend of spices Xochitl had heaped her dinner with.
He had lied through his teeth about appreciating the unique flavors, but he sincerely doubted neither his captain nor Xochitl was fooled.
Still he had felt it a necessary sin as the woman watched him with concerned eyes as he choked his way through the evening meal.
He shrugged lightly and then shivered a little as the wind picked up. At least the interesting bread had been good- if not a little burnt…
Pushing aside the curtain over the doorway, Renji felt a rush of heated air hit his face. A grin formed as the scent of strong alcohol and warm ramen hit his nose.
Spread throughout the bar the Eleventh Division seemed well into their cups. Ikkaku was already stripped to the waist and taking on challengers in a drinking slash arm wrestling competition. Naturally Yumichika was daintily sipping from a cup, off to the side, observing with a smile. Seeing the redhead he raised his cup in salutation.
Kenpachi's laughter nearly drowned out the groans and cheering of the men gathered to watch the game in progress. His lopsided leer could be seen above a rather large cup of something- one might only describe as hooch.
"Abarai!" The captain bellowed.
Renji side-stepped a circle of men, noting that Yachiru Fuku-Taichou sat in the center throwing dice and gobbling sweets. She flashed a bright smile at him and waved enthusiastically before rolling up her sleeve to throw again.
"Zaraki-Taichou," The lieutenant greeted with a bow of his head reaching the counter at his side. A cup was promptly placed before him and he gathered it up gratefully. After swallowing a mouthful a bout of coughing followed.
The captain glanced at him questioningly as the man wiped at the back of his mouth with a hand, "You sick, Abarai? Or can't you hold your liquor since deserting to that prissy squad?"
Fist to his mouth Renji cleared his throat, trying not to look as embarrassed as he felt. Finally he wheezed out, "Had- dinner at my captain's… His girl… makes some- ::cough:: interesting food."
For a moment Kenpachi studied Renji before a wide grin spread over his face and he murmured conspiratorially, "So she can't cook?"
Renji gave the man a chagrined look, "If she invites you for food,"- which he had no doubt she might despite Byakuya's grudge- "Make an excuse."
Kenpachi's laughter spilled out the bar and into the night.