Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach. The chapter title incidentally coincides with The Weeknd's song- which I do not own either.
Word Count: 474
A Kiss for Shelter
Belong to the World
The day came- bright and sunny with spring in full bloom. The weather was ignorant of the conflicting emotions that went unexpressed between the two new parents. As the small private room was packed up around them- the gifts and flowers being bundled away- it was much like watching their quiet life being unraveled bit by bit.
Byakuya, with Takuma settled securely in his arms, watched as Xochitl offered her gratitude and said her good-byes to the nursing staff.
Finally, he led the way down the corridor, each step heavy and somber.
Takuma, alert and ready, it seemed, to take in the world, stared quietly at his father's face. The man strode confidently enough, and while the light sway was somewhat lulling the boy couldn't help but note how strange this walk felt. That prickly, yet not unpleasant feeling that tripped along his skin was fraught with anxiety.
Behind them, the warm woman took slower steps, supported by two women who helped her along.
He watched as the man's grey eyes flicked back over his broad shoulder. Still the man said nothing despite the concern glimmering in his gaze.
The boy squirmed slightly. He didn't like all of the quiet, or the tension he felt.
When the man looked down at him, he considered the child for a time before allowing a soft look to take over the stoic features. The boy opened and closed his mouth a couple times as though trying to have a word with the man, but only a few quiet sounds erupted.
Byakuya, contented by his son's attempts at communication, lifted his head.
The main doorway loomed.
Each step shot a frisson of doubt into the noble captain.
What kind of life awaited them?
How could he keep his son safe- healthy?
How could he go back to treating Xochitl indifferently?
Yellow-white rays poured across the threshold and he halted, eyes closed.
Indeed, I have faith in a happy future for our little one. Xochitl's written words filtered across his mind.
It was all he needed. He stepped forward, squinted for a moment and then stared in surprise at the sight before him.
Two orderly rows of his colleagues lined either side of the path.
"Well now," The Captain-Commander chuckled, "We've been waiting! How's our honorary member doing this fine day? You mind if I sneak a peek?"
...
"So, they return to the manor today…" The woman tapped the rolled missive in her open palm thoughtfully. Brown eyes narrowed a moment before her expression cleared and she looked cool and apathetic.
I suppose it's time to insure the contract is being adhered to.
"My lady," A voice called from beyond the shoji, "Kuchiki Ojou-sama has come and wishes to meet with you."
Admittedly taken aback the woman's brows winged upward. "Well… Today should prove to be most enlightening."