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.

113. Chapter 113

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.

Word Count: 409

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A Kiss for Shelter

Wingman

The Sixth Division had a small garden with a dark stained bridge settled over a quaint pond. This is where Renji found his captain idling when he thought he'd be venturing home.

But then, the Kuchiki Lord, seemed to be- hesitant of late to return to the manor.

Renji had noted his captain's heavy mood over the last few days, but had refrained from inquiring.

His footsteps announced him, but he cleared his throat anyway as he started up the bridge.

"I told the woman that I held her in high regards…" Byakuya admitted after a peaceful silence.

Renji could wait an eternity for him to elaborate, but he knew he wouldn't.

"So… She didn't accept your confession?" The redhead coaxed.

Byakuya turned his head giving his lieutenant his stoic profile.

Renji sighed and scratched at his temple with a finger, "No offense, Taichou, but you probably just didn't say it right."

Narrowed grey eyes alighted on the lieutenant's face and he swallowed hard trying his best to ignore the dark gaze.

"Ehem… Well… Taichou- you speak well 'n all, but sometimes- ugh- I guess you don't come across as being sincere." He chanced a quick look at his superior and his shoulders hunched.

The sparking grey eyes seemed to prompt: Explain.

Renji grimaced and scrubbed at his forehead. He sighed again- a rather put-upon sigh- and threw his hands in the air, "Look, Taichou, you know you're not the most talkative guy. You're about as expressive as a rock- er-," Stupidly he again glanced at Byakuya only to add, "To someone who doesn't know you of course… Even after knowin' you- however long- sometimes I've got no clue what's goin' on in your head."

Silence followed.

"You think," Byakuya paused, "I should reiterate my sentiments."

Renji suspired, this time in relief, "Aa, Taichou. Make it clear what she means to ya. And what it would mean if she weren't there."

"Weren't there?" The captain questioned slowly.

"Aa- if you think about what you'd miss, it might surprise you." Renji nodded with certainty, leaning his forearms on the rail now.

After only a moment, the noble swung around, walking measuredly down the bridge. He hesitated. "How is it," He looked at Renji out of the corner of his eye, "You know so much?"

A smirk tugged at the redhead's lips. A woman's perspective. Rukia still tells me everything- including how irritating and clueless Strawberry-head is. Finally he shrugged, "Eh."