Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.
Word Count: 397
AN: I usually have chapters ready weeks before I post them, but I get anxious and re-read them a bunch of times- debating on whether they're relatable and have some kind of direction (progress). *Sigh* I do try. This series of updates is a little ridiculous- a flood of feels!
Anywho, thank you all for the follows/favs. And another major shout-out to L.G.- you're too awesome for words (ha! Yet I will continue to tell you)!
A Kiss for Shelter
Milk
Sake was something that the Captain of the Sixth did, on occasion indulge in. It was usually some special circumstance which prompted him to partake, perchance hosting the rare party.
He was aware that his lieutenant often went for a cup (or a few) when off duty. While he would never admit to it, he mainly kept his home well stocked because his Second in Command might take a cup after dinner. Somehow, listening to Renji ramble unfiltered after a glass or two of high quality liquor (finer than what a bar might serve) was rather relaxing.
But now the noble found that he had to keep a different sort of beverage in his stores at all times.
Xochitl drank milk with a pinch of cinnamon. Cups upon cups of it. In the middle of the night she would slip from her futon next to his (a new addition to her rooms, after conceding to his sound reasoning) and pad to the kitchens.
The first night he had followed soon after. She had paused on the outside fusuma to chide him, 'Is there some danger I should be aware of in your home?'
After that he would follow her, but more surreptitiously- often circling around, remaining only close enough to keep her in his sights. If she noticed him she did not let on.
Then one night:
"Hurry my lord or you might miss my clandestine meeting with Zaraki-Taichou." Xochitl's voice carried across the courtyard.
Byakuya tensed having been caught.
His eyes narrowed at her teasing and he glowered in the dark before asking mildly, "Why Zaraki?"
Her soft laugh was somehow muted by the winter's stillness, but it eased the stiffness in his shoulders.
"Because you don't like him. Or is 'keep your distance' a standard greeting between captains?" She had mimicked his deep tone and he tottered on the edge of amusement and offense.
She was now very comfortable baiting him- perhaps too comfortable.
"Hn." He finally huffed, but even in this simple reply could she detect a hint of sullenness.
Following the spiritual pressure he purposely emitted, she found him beneath the overhang of the shrine.
She looked up at him, cocking her head slightly so that the faint light of the sky illumined his unearthly features. The woman smiled slowly, "Would you like to join me for a cup of milk, my lord?"