8:48am(Caribbean time)
Cheers everyone... trying to keep this short- 1- sorry for the long wait its been like three weeks i think(I am very sorry for the wait) but its work. i have been travelling (Ukraine/Canada/(where i was turned into a popsicle) / Israel / California(where i was defrosted till i was roasted just right- and some) seriously I'm like a chameleon, I have three different shades of skin color right now I look like a Frankenstein put together.. lol) and only last night got to TRINIDAD (again) only to be told this morning around 5am that I don't have to work today as the offices are closed because today is a HOLIDAY (EID).
Anyway I had like only pumped out 2400-3000 words at min... three weeks ago and this morning I was able to get a lot more done from since 5:30 since i couldn't go back to sleep so this chapter should be long... like...long.
2- Thank you to everyone that's reviewed or continue to follow (you all know who you are)
3- I have started working on chapter 10, roughly only a 1000 words in hopefully it isn't to long so i can get it done sooner and posted sooner, (because I only have a sort of free day today)
4-Like the Trini's say (Learn it-Lock it-Love it-Leave it-Load it-Live it... I don't own anything of BLEACH... and the AU-ish stuff is my imagination at work at best.
So i hope you guys like this chapter though you might skip over most of it... but also because the next chapter will be a bit of everything that makes BYARUKI hot i hope...
CHAPTER 9 - DINNER...VERY WELL... DANCING... I DON'T... DRINKS... ALL'S WELL...
Rukia at one point regretted asking Rangiku to help her pick out something to wear, her room was a mess, her closet looked liked a hurricane had happened, but finally all three had settled on an outfit, it was chaste and sexy, it almost made her feel both free and powerful at the same time, and not to sluttish, because she really didn't want to look like that. She had changed amazingly… she wanted him to see that she had matured far more in the past three months than in the last 5 years, she was ready to start afresh with him, if he would let them, if he would forgive her.
After her short bath, she decided to do her hair first, she wondered now if she should have let Ran cut her hair, she had neglected it for the past two months since the whole project to get 'SZ' ready; she only had time to wash it and steam it. Her hair was just reaching the middle of her shoulder blades. She decided to curl the ends after parting her hair centre to either side. Satisfied she started on her makeup, which wasn't much, light blush, light eye shadow, dark eyeliner and mascara and a light lipstick.
The must do's completed she dropped her robe and reached for her cream to cream her skin, then slipped into her chiffon lace v-neck strap cross little black and white mini dress with trumpet sleeve effortlessly, followed by her 4 inch black and touch of silver heels, she accessorized with a string of pearls around her neck and wrist, satisfied with her getup, Rukia grabbed up her small clutch purse, stuffing her keys, credit card, cash, and other items that no girl should be without.
She then called the last number on the card Byakuya had given her, true enough some strange man answered, he had been expecting her call, she told him where to pick her up, before stuffing her phone into her purse and grabbing her deep claret colored Burberry trench coat crafted from rich cotton sateen, with the tailored set-in sleeves. It hid her dress well giving her a slim silhouette, of one cut with a tapered waist and narrow button stance.
Byakuya was glad that he had decided to buy a new suit or two. He opted for the gabardine color suit, matching shoes, pearl white shirt, and no tie. He brushed his hair out pulling it back into a ruff ponytail, splash of his favourite cologne and he was ready. He took his time getting to Takazawa. His driver had called to say that he was on his way to pick up Miss Hoshino. Byakuya was really happy that Rukia didn't change her mind about tonight; honestly if she had he would have ended his renewed pursuit of her immediately.
He was greeted by Akiko or Mrs. Takazawa as he sometimes preferred to call her and then Yoshiaki Takazawa himself, they chatted a few, before discussing his nephew Ukitake impending wedding after being a bachelor for so long. Then Yoshi turned the conversation onto Byakuya's own personal life. Normally Byakuya would cut anyone down who dare to question anything of his personal life but Yoshi was like a father to him and he felt comfortable enough to divulge that he was hoping to win the woman he would be dining with heart over.
Yoshi of course told him, that he had come to the right place, he would prepare the finest food ever to help Byakuya win this woman over starting with his excellent choice of where to dine which was at 'Aronia de Takazawa' and it wasn't because Byakuya had reserved his entire restaurant, he promised that both Byakuya and his lady friend would not be disappointed in the ambience and service tonight, that they would leave here more in love that before.
When Rukia had arrived… try as he might, Byakuya couldn't take his eyes off of Rukia. From the moment she'd walked into the private dining room in that fucktastic dress, to the way her dark seductive eyes showed how fearful she was of him even now, he should be concerned but he wasn't… Byakuya was just simply hypnotized for he almost missed his cue to stand as the waiter pulled out her chair to help her into her chair because his eyes kept flitting back to her dress and her hidden eyes, enjoying the lovely look the dim lighting gave to her skin.
He had been nervous at first the whole time awaiting her arrival, wondering how they would fare in a private setting away from any kind of interruption.
Rukia was an absolute mess under all the courageous façade. Maybe she should not have come, but she had been curious to know just what Byakuya Kuchiki was playing at, acting like he didn't know her, like they never met before. She hadn't planned anything ahead or her escape just in case shit started flying. She had taken one look at him as she entered the dining room and quickly cast her eyes down to avoid his intense gaze, but Kami he looked so breathtaking, so contradistinctive… why it was hard to believe that he was the same Byakuya Kuchiki, that she knew.
She was glad that the waiter helped her into her seat because she didn't know how she would react to Byakuya being behind her or so close to her, even now she was fearful that there wasn't enough space between them, but the feeling would be temporary, once she had a good stiff drink to relax or a glass or two of wine.
After her second glass of wine, she was easily holding conversations with him, avoiding their even more difficult past carefully, even as the waiter brought in their appetizer of 'shirayaki', eel that was lightly steamed and grilled, then topped with caviar, accompanied by another bottle of 'koshu' wine.
This provided a break for her to continue to assemble her thoughts… to contemplate whether she should just jump right in she decided to wait a bit longer. She avoided looking at him, as they ate in silence. Short minutes after their last bites their plates were removed; Byakuya then cleared his throat catching her attention before he tried to make conversation.
"So miss Hoshino what is it that you do?"
"I specialize in project management and architect designs, but you already know this Byakuya," she didn't think twice about being formal with him as he was being with her.
"Interesting, what work have you done lately?"
"Most recently I have completed the build and design of a new business venture for a friend, would you like me to invite you to the grand opening?"
"As your date I would say yes, as a curious guest I might be too busy to make the time to attend."
"Okay then- I'll let you know when I am done thinking it over, though I have many suitors waiting in the wing who are also awaiting my decision."
"Very well…" he said voice dry and emotionless.
Just then they were interrupted by a bell and Ms Akiko entering with the waiter carrying a huge tray laden with various dishes for their main course. She was kind enough to explain colorfully what dishes they were being served; starting with chef Takazawa's secret French-Japanese signature famous dish of: ratatouille terrine, with vegetables layered into multicoloured cubes; along with the carpenter's salade niçoise, with sashimi tuna and tapenade sauce solidified in the shape of spanners and screws; and his love spell hot balloon of seafood slow-cooked with bamboo shoot and seaweed, placed on a hot plate at their table simmering slowly.
Rukia couldn't lie, after eating the appetizer, her appetite had grown and the food smelled so good that she immediately began filling a plate for herself, before Akiko could finish. Akiko smiled at him and then gave him a knowing wink, as she and the waiter bowed leaving them both to enjoy their meal. Rukia was busy stuffing her face not greedily, but still stuffing her mouth, swallowing hard after chewing for a couple seconds.
Byakuya though wasn't stunned, but he was pleased for a lack of a better word that Rukia hadn't changed that bit about herself, she still loved her belly and he continued to be amaze at how much she could put away without gaining an ounce of weight. His small smile disappeared when he felt a nudge on his arm before the familiar voice spoke breaking his hazy thoughts completely.
"Am I disgusting you with my piggish behaviour?"
"No- I just- I've never seen a woman eat so freely,"
"Huh…! Is that a turn on to you, some kind of weird fetish fantasy of yours watching a woman stuff her face?"
"No… not weird… not a fetish and not a fantasy at all, I just find it quaint a bit, after all most woman with a body like yours usually dine on salad's mostly to maintain it."
"Good thing I'm not afraid to gain a pound or two, I have been told that I am to skinny, and I have been trying, to gain a pound or few,"
"I don't think so, though I must say you are perfect in every proportion."
"Thanks, so you are going to let me eat all this food by myself?"
"I'll just order another set, I'm sure Yoshi won't mind,"
"Yoshi…?"
"Yoshiaki Takazawa-the chef, and owner of 'Aronia de Takazawa'"
"How do you know him?"
"Met through a very close friend of mine, many years ago… I was still a nineteen year old adolescent then,"
"How come we're the only two here dining…?"
"I reserved the entire restaurant; I was aiming to impress you mostly I believe… or I wanted for us to be alone,"
"Why- when you've only just met me, I might be a gold digger… alone why?"
"I don't think so, and I did not want any outside interference, I wanted to have your undivided attention,"
"Hmmm…" she said pausing before saying
"Is this where you take the many women who only eat salad?" so he did want to talk after all but she wasn't ready to talk just yet and decided to stray a bit before getting back to that topic.
"No, I've never brought anyone here before, not even my late wife, she didn't really like going out unless it was to shop,"
"So I'm special then?"
"If that's how you want to look at it…?"
"How do you see it?"
"Aside from the fact that you have always been your own kind of woman…I- well I find that I am fascinated with you, you're beautiful, head strong, not afraid to speak your mind, and you certainly have an appetite that rivals mine, you certainly grab my attention without trying as much as the others, you don't seem pretentious at all and I think that's what I like about you the most so far… I also hope that wasn't too confusing for you to follow,"
"No… so is that all?"
"No, but I don't know if I am being too optimistic when I say that I am hoping to discover more about you miss Hoshino, if you will let me, get to know you,"
Rukia sat back and took up her glass of wine, well what could she say, good food and wine were dulling her senses, she was losing focus possibly she hadn't realised that she had finished her drink but noticed when he readily poured her another glass.
"Are you trying to get me drunk… is that how you are hoping to get to know me… think that if I am drunk I will sing like a bird?"
"No, I just thought you'd like another refill,"
"Oh…thank you, but no thanks I think I'd like some water now please, since I seem to be the only one drinking."
"I apologize, of course that is what the situation may look like to you but it's just that I am driving and I don't want to drink too much and drive, after all I did promise to take you out for dinner and drinks,"
"Isn't that what we're doing, dining and drinking?"
"Dining yes, drinking, hardly, but if you have had enough or the situation has grown uncomfortable for you then I can take you home or have my driver take you home, I expect nothing in return, though your time and company is greatly appreciated."
Silence filled the room after his somewhat poignant speech.
Byakuya then turned his attention to his the plate sitting before him. The minutes ticked by and sure enough they had emptied the prepared dishes. Rukia slowly sat back slipping a little lower in her chair as she sighed contentedly.
"Are you full?" he asked taking a sip of his water.
"I should be, but I still feel a bit peckish, are we having dessert?"
"If you would like…?"
"I would, the appetizer was great, the main course was fantastic, and the dessert must be almighty,"
Both laughed at her summary of the food so far.
"I'll let you be the judge of that Ms. Hoshino," he said as the silence settled around then though not uncomfortably.
Byakuya knows he should look anywhere but at her, but he couldn't bring himself to not because he wasn't trying, because he was, but his eyes and everything else about him, hadn't yet had their fill of her quite. He didn't even try to look away when she caught him staring as she broke the silence…
"Can I trust that you'll be a gentleman and not take advantage of me if I get drunk?"
"Indubitably… I'd never do that to any woman much less you… you can trust me on that and further more I can get a woman or two anytime."
"Show off… okay then, well-when we're done here, I'll go with for drinks because you ask me to trust you and I am going to do so; and obviously it's got to be some place I have never been right?"
"I hope so," he smiled pleasantly, causing her to blush a little and shift a bit in her seat almost comfortably just as the waiter entered to remove their dishes.
"Every bite worth it, I have to applaud that this is the best food I have eaten ever,"
"I would have to agree with you Ms Hoshino,"
"So what's for dessert…?"
"Yoshi said he'd surprise us with seven world famous desserts."
"I hope it's got chocolate, I love anything made or filled with chocolate, or sweet as a matter of fact."
"Noted for future reference,"
"Future reference…?" She said rhetorically
"Yes, I think I would like to take you out again, particularly to a food exhibition gala, if tonight is a success,"
"You said the magic word 'FOOD,"
Byakuya chuckled at her glazed over drool expression.
Rukia though, was thinking that the sound was strange and a first coming from him, never has Byakuya Kuchiki been this open, maybe he was open to sharing other things she thought as she asked,
"So do your other female companions and friends talk your ear of this much?"
"I wouldn't know, the others don't say much unless you count Mrs Tanoka… she usually gives me an earful," he smiled thoughtfully and again this surprised Rukia.
"So what do you do for fun Mr Kuchiki?"
"I don't really do fun, I'm more of a worker bee,"
"Oh!"
"But I am trying to change that, go with the flow I think is what they say,"
"You're still young you've got time."
"And what do you do for fun Miss Hoshino?"
"A bit of this, a bit of that, you know whatever floats the boat."
"Would you care to elaborate on a bit of this and that?"
"I like hanging with my two best friends even though sometimes they get on my nerves with their over protective ways, I like sports but I suck at it, to short I'm told, but I don't care, love to party, but I guess I have the most fun designing or building and managing, the more complicated the more fun to actually bring it all to life,"
The bell dinged announcing Ms Akiko approaching, their talk halted for the moment.
Ms Akiko beamed brilliantly at them both as she announced and presented each of their dessert dishes.
"I hope you two aren't full yet, because you're in for a really grand treat dears… tonight you will be presented with delightful little treats fit for kings and queens, beginning with;
The Fortress Stilt Fisherman Indulgence, as you know the saying food presentation is very important, and when it comes to the Fortress Stilt Fisherman Indulgence, there is no doubt. This particular dessert pays special tribute to a past time in Sri Lanka called stilt fishing by portraying a stilt fishing scene made of delicious ingredients, such as chocolate, exotic fruit, and Irish cream and served with a mango and pomegranate compote. It portrays a fisherman, carved out of chocolate, hanging onto the stilt. And placed just underneath the fisherman is a perfectly cut 80 carat aquamarine diamond that sits on a tiny sliver of chocolate to fully represent the fisherman's stilt. And yes anyone who orders this dessert get's to keep the jewel."
"You're kidding right, really… a real ruby?" Rukia asked incredulously
"It's very real dear, Yoshi learned this while he was in Sri Lanka and since Byakuya dear has reserved the restaurant we only serve him with the best as should be expected."
"Thank you Ms Akiko."
The second treat is called the 'The Sultan's Golden Cake… if you've ever wanted to try an edible brick of gold, this dessert is definitely for you."
"You know I've always wondered what gold tasted like..."
"Well dear it's not really all gold, but it looks like a brick of gold only the cake is made of figs, pears, apricot, and quince that are then put into a Jamaican Rum and soaked for two years. To finish, the cake is topped with French Polynesia vanilla bean, caramel, black truffles and a 24 carat gold leaf."
"Who made it? How long did it take to make?"
"We got the cake only today, there was a cancellation, however a close friend of my husband made it and it is said that the cake takes about 48-72-hours to make depending on thickness and layers. Once it is ready to be served, it is placed inside a sterling silver cake box with a golden seal. However, dearest the cake is usually only made per request: usually for a wedding, celebration, or for a sultan himself."
"Well we definitely aren't married, and Mr Kuchiki isn't a sultan, so it begs the questions are we celebrating if we are what are we celebrating Mr. Kuchiki?"
"You and I becoming friends Miss Hoshino,"
"All of this because we've become friends in the space of a few hours…?"
"If I am being to forward then please say so, Miss Hoshino,"
"Oh no, it's not that, it's just I am wondering what you do for someone who is more than a friend… but hey- I'm not complaining, I love cake…"
"Good, please continue Ms Akiko," he said turning his attention back to her,
"The third dish is known as 'The Brownie Extraordinaire' and Yoshi learned to make it while he was in the US cultivating his food experience and skills.
I must remind you dears that, this isn't just any brownie. This brownie is made out of dark chocolate that is then covered with Italian hazelnuts and served with a scoop of ice cream. Accompanying this sweet dessert is a very rare and highly expensive port wine, Quinta do Novel Nicional, from Portugal, served in a beautiful French design St. Louis Crystal atomizer." Which she set on the table for both of them,
"Wine and brownie now that I've got to try," Rukia beamed gleefully,
"Trust me dear it is a must, I speak from experience when I say that although a brownie may not seem like a very lavish dessert, adding a glass of this rare wine most definitely spices things up."
Byakuya just looked on as Rukia eyes lit up in joy, he knew she couldn't wait to taste what Ms Akiko had presented so far, and he couldn't wait to see her taste them all either.
"Next in line is the 'Golden Opulence Sundae' served in a Harcourt crystal goblet is a pure joy to behold and eat. This delightful little treat is made of the best of the best, the Golden Opulence Sundae is made with 5 scoops of Tahitian Vanilla bean ice cream mixed with Madagascar vanilla and Venezuelan chuao chocolate and topped off with a leaf covered in 23K edible gold."
"I'll have that to, since it's got chocolate,"
"You will love it dear, but mind you there are also other ingredients, including gold dragets, Paris candied fruits, marzipan cherries, and truffles. And yet to top it all off, one of the world's most expensive chocolates (Amedei Porcelana) is drizzled over the top and a Ron Ben-Israel sugar flower is properly placed. On top of the sundae you'll also find a small glass bowl of Grand Passion Caviar, sweetened with orange, passion fruit, and Armagnac, which gives off a shiny golden color.
"Can I have it now, its ice cream and I don't want it to melt,"
"Don't worry dear; it won't melt once it's kept in the cold stone case until you're ready to eat it."
"That would be now," she pouted, causing both Byakuya and Ms Akiko to smile softly at her, she was like a 5 year old child anxious for her long awaited sweet treats.
"Oh dear, well I can forgo the presentation and forget about the Noka Chocolate- Vintage Collection,'
"No, you said the magic word 'chocolate, I've heard of Noka chocolate, they're expensive and sold by the pound,"
"That's true dear and it's probably the simplest dessert on the list, only expensive because the chocolate is well known for being delicious and one of the finest made in the entire world."
"I've heard that before but I just don't think it can be all that,"
"My dear Noka uses all different types of cocoa from places such as Ecuador, Venezuela, Cote d'Ivoire, and Trinidad. The chocolates that are provided in the Vintage Collection are all of the dark variety, each of them made with at least 75% cocoa. And if you're new to Noka chocolate, I can assure you that Noka even provides flavour profiles as well as tasting guidelines, which I would recommend that you try, as each box is packaged in the classic Noka design yielding a different taste, chocolate will never taste the same to you once you've had Noka.
"I will do just that if these vintage Noka lives up to their value and ravings."
"Well as it happens Miss Hoshino, I do know the one of the makers of Noka Chocolates, would you like me to introduce you to him?"
"After I've had them I'll let you know," she beamed licking her lips as her eyes danced over the set desserts so far.
The next set of desserts are made in our own country and right here by myself of course, though almost anyone can make them I am sure, still not everyone can make 'Chestnut Kintons or Cream Candy' as delicious as I do. Typically most people would think that candy is more suitable for a movie theater or a kid's party, and not dessert. However, I hope you both will make an exception for these Takazawa special made cream candies because it is so tasty. Chestnuts are the staple here, with sweet potatoes, sugar, mirin sauce and some vinegar. This chestnut is from a chestnut tree that is only found in Japan and parts of South Korea. But these are made from my own chestnut tree to serve as a delectable side candy dessert.
"I'll try those to, now… so can we start?" Rukia asked
"I'm sorry dear if I am keeping you in wait but I am going to leave you both after I present the last dessert, which Yoshi insisted that I present to Byakuya as its his favorite."
"There is only one thing that Yoshi usually makes for me when I visit,"
"I know it's the only sweet thing you indulge in…"
"His famous Almond Cookies" they both said
"But almost every ethnic community makes them and they taste the same to me." Rukia said
"Not the same Miss Hoshino…never… Yoshiaki almond cookies are so good and you should not mistake those dry and stale cookies, those scrub imitation cookies with Yoshiaki's spectacularly flavoured ones, made with his own homemade almond milk, I personally believe there may not be a better dessert around that can compare to Yoshi almond cookies."
Byakuya said passionately causing both Akiko and Rukia to blush; never had they heard Byakuya speak so passionately about anything much less something as simple and as common as almond cookies.
Ms Akiko and the waiter bowed leaving them both then, and Byakuya refused to look at Rukia feeling a little uncomfortable at his outburst over cookies. If he had to be honest there was a better dessert that he loved more than almond cookies and it was sitting right opposite him
"Well then let's begin,"
Rukia said smiling as Byakuya refuse to look at her since his little outburst. Everything Rukia tasted just made her swoon, they were so good and beyond anything she'd ever eaten, the brownie and red port being her favorite dessert thus far. She had also spoon fed Byakuya a taste of whatever she was eating, encouraging him to try them all though she knew he didn't like overtly sweet things, still a pout ever so often got him to indulge her indulgence of him accepting her offers.
Byakuya would never show that he was beyond thrilled having Rukia feed him dessert when what he really wanted to do was take it directly from her mouth, but he would behave himself, he was going to do things differently, he was going to take this slow and not chase her away.
It took them an hour to finish all seven dishes as Rukia really took her time savouring each bite, each sip, making those delightful, little sounds that he thought she only made in bed. After she placed her fork down, she dabbed at her mouth and leaned back in her chair purring contently like a cat, rubbing her tummy.
"Kami, that was so awesomely…insanely… deliciously… divine, I can't believe that I have been missing out on all of this for most of my life."
"How so…?"
"What…? Are you kidding me, as if you don't know, I certainly can't afford that kid of luxury every day or every week,"
"A lady shouldn't have to, she should have a husband, boyfriend or a good friend, do that for her."
"Unfortunately I don't have any of those, and maybe for a good reason as I am sure they would be expecting a reward for treating me to such a lavish night of dinner and dessert and soon drinking,"
"Well you don't have to worry about that with me, I promise you I am not looking for anything in return at the moment except your company."
"Good to know because I think I may have just finally gained a pound or two, so I might become unattractive very soon… and not that I care,"
"Hmm- well I'd have to say if you have it does look good on you, and if I wasn't turned of by your and I quote your words 'piggish behaviour,' then you cannot ever become unattractive to me,"
"Stop it Byakuya, no flirting, I am filled with food, wine and sweets and the only thing that can make this evening better is Ssse…. Sleep,"
Byakuya looked at her knowingly, knowing that isn't what she was going to say at all, but she did well to recover and he wouldn't tease her either. He didn't want her to think that he was thinking the exact same thing, which would probably make him perverted in her mind.
"Well if you wish I can take you home, we can leave the drinks for another night?"
"No, I'm fine, once I get to walking, sleep will be the last thing on my mind."
"Very well… I am, ready to leave, you can either walk with me or you can wait here while I praise the chef and hostess for a wonderful experience of fine dining."
"I will walk with, I need to move or I'll fall asleep right there and I wouldn't want you to see me drooling all over myself." She said laughing as Byakuya only offered a smirk at the shared joke.
Byakuya found Both Mr. and Mrs. Takazawa sitting in the hushed, windowless chamber that was his kitchen with its sleek wood panelling and dramatic spot lighting playing a game of chess.
"Akiko still beating you?" he queried.
"Ah Bya-bo, she cannot beat me I allow her to win,"
"You said that about my first win, thirty years ago,"
"No dear, I said the first win's for girls,"
"And what about the second or my three hundred and twenty sixth win to your seventy two wins last week?"
"Alright dear, no need to embarrass me in front of bya-bo,"
Akiko and Rukia both laughed at his redding face.
"Still so cute, when you blush," Akiko teased, before kissing his cheek,
"Bya-bo do you see what I have to put up with, be thankful that you are still single and hopefully when you get to my age you still might be, you really don't need a woman rubbing the fact that she's a better chess player than you in your face."
"I didn't say it you did, you baka old man."
"I am not a baka and I am not an old man, I'm only 58 young."
"Really I couldn't tell by the way you complain when you lose, or how quick the sex is over before I even get started."
"Baka woman, I am not a robot twice is enough for me but when you want to go five and six times where do you want me to get the stamina from?"
Both Rukia and Byakuya were blushing furiously and it was rare that Byakuya was caught blushing."
"Look what you did now," Yoshi said
"What did I do?"
"You made Bya-bo blush and his lovely date as well, now whatever will they think of us now,"
"Bya-bo does not blush,"
"Oh yes he- does-look at his face,"
Byakuya tried really hard to keep his cool look but his face still felt heated as well as the tip of his ears."
"Aye- you're right; I have never seen Bya-bo blush ever," Akiko teased
"Mr and Mrs Takazawa, I just wanted to say thank you for the experience of dining at Aronia de Takazawa,"
"No thanks Bya-bo, it's always a pleasure to have you as a guest, Ms Hoshino how was the food?" Yoshi asked with a curious smile
"It was out of this world, I really loved the ratatouille terrine along with the other food, but I have to say that dessert by far was the highlight of my dining experience here at Aronia de Takazawa, just magnificent, the food, the atmosphere and the chef and hostess, well the both of you Mr. and Mrs Takazawa… everything was just amazing, it's something I'll always remember."
"Oh don't make it sound like you won't ever come back, I insist that Bya-bo make sure and bring you back, maybe even as his wife." Yoshi said winking at them both
"Uh- Um its time that Miss Hoshino and I take our leave again thank you Akiko and Yoshi."
"Oh dear, I think made bya-bo blush even redder than a tomato, wait till I tell Juushiro about Bya-bo blushing."
"Goodbye," Byakuya said stiffly as he grabbed Rukia's hand and led her to the exit.
"Bya-bo, you know I'm only teasing you right? But wait a second I have something for you," Yoshi said as his wife handed him a neatly wrapped box.
"It's your favorite,"
"I_"
"Baka you better not be refusing my offering, I made them for you, so don't let them waste,"
"Thank you Yoshi."
"Good and you owe me after today,"
"What for…?"
"You know what for and don't you dear try to cheat me bya-bo."
Byakuya and Rukia walked quietly to his car, he then opened the passenger door for Rukia and waited as she got in then got in the driver's seat. Buckled in he turned to Rukia.
"So Miss Hoshino, are you still feeling for drinks or would you like to go home?"
"I feel like clubbing and a drink, do you know any good place?"
"Yes and No, you might not like it there. So you can choose any place you want to go to."
"How would you know I wouldn't like it there, you didn't know I would like dining at Aronia de Takazawa and you still took me there, so let's go to a club that you frequent."
"I don't frequent the club, as you think,"
"How often do you go then?"
"Once… twice a month, and it's generally for business."
"You really are a worker bee, all work and no fun even while out clubbing."
"I_"
"Bya-bo, relax I'm just teasing you, but seriously lets go and you're going to have some fun, you're going to dance with me,"
"I don't really like to dance,"
"I get you don't like to do a lot of things, so here's the deal, you cannot say 'I don't' anything for the rest of the night, if I say you have to dance with me, you will, if I say you have to drink with me you have to, we can take a cab back or sleep in the car, whatever I suggest you have to do, you cannot refuse."
"And does that go for you as well Ms Hoshino?"
"We'll see as the night progresses, since we want this night to be a success,"
"Ms Hoshino can I ask something of you…?"
"This one time sure why not,"
"Can you please not call me Bya-bo in public ever?"
"Why not I think it's a cute name."
"Ms Hoshino, you may call me anything else but bya-bo, that is all I am going to say."
"Okay- alright don't, go losing your cool."
"I don't lose my cool,"
"Strike one,"
"What do you mean strike one?"
"You just said I don't and I specifically asked you less than a minute ago to not say 'I don't' and you just did, you have two more strikes remaining Mr Kuchiki… you should really try not to strike out before the end of our date, because there might not be another if you do,"
Byakuya looked away as he started the car and eased out onto the lone road before merging onto a main road.
"So where is this place exactly?"
"That's a secret, I'll share with you when I get to know you well enough,"
"What are you talking about?"
"Are you not asking where Aronia de Takazawa is located?"
"No I was asking about the club that we're going to… and what is the name of this club by the way?"
"Casba_"
"Casba… what kind of club is it?"
"A raw, members-only club for the deep night set."
"Deep night set, you mean like an all nighters club that stays open till morning?"
"Partly, but the atmosphere: is more retro and kitschy you might also find it scary."
"Kitschy- nice choice of word to say that you mean the place is pretentious and vulgar or maybe insincerely emotional; a bunch of fakes displaying maudlin expressions of no one knows what it feels like to be me, oh what a tragedy boo-hoo-hoo, I hate my life…"
"You're very smart Ms Hoshino,"
"I believe so to, and Byakuya please call me Rukia, we are friends after all right?"
"Yes we are Rukia,"
"Oh and before I forget, I would like it if you introduced me to your friend that makes those Noka chocolates, they are freakishly the best chocolate I have ever eaten."
"Dually noted..." he replied smiling a little
"So what kind of crowd does Casba entertain?"
"You're most likely to bump into: The global elite of celebrities, designers, photographers, musicians and artists: Marc Jacobs, Rei Kawakubo, Sophia Coppola, and Hedi Slimane to name a few. Even Kyoko Koizumi, my high school teacher whom I had a crush on before she became famous.
"Isn't she like 50 now?"
"No, she's just 47 actually and back then Zumi use to be considered hot, and even now I still think she is desirable."
"Oh how sweet still crushing on Zumi_"
"I'm not," Byakuya said stiffly
"Okay, sorry I promise I won't tease you for the duration of tonight anymore… so what makes Casba so special besides the fakes?"
"One thing for sure is that you can`t just walk into Casba, if you manage to even find it."
"Even if I was to go knocking in a sexy number…?"
"I would advise you to not even try knocking unless you know Reiko."
"Reiko as in Reiko Aylesworth…?"
"You've heard of her I take it?"
"Heard of her, she's like freaking famous and very beautiful,"
"She is, and yes that's the Reiko, you have to know her to get a special pass or your name at the door."
"Wow- I am jealous, I honestly am, you do not hang out with regular everyday folks do you?"
"I dohhh- I mean yes but not every time I go out which isn't a lot." he said catching himself at the last second,
Rukia smiled; maybe he was trying after all, to change his stush ways, so she continued on with…
"So is Reiko an ex-girlfriend?"
"Yes, we dated briefly; I was in my third year of college she was in her last year,"
"How old is she?"
"I believe she is 40 now,"
"You got a thing for older women, huh…?"
"I have come to the understanding that age is just a number, but if a woman captures my attention then it's only fair that I at least ask her out, if she refuses that's fine with me to."
"So if I had refused your invitation, you wouldn't give me a second glance the next time we see each other?"
"I wouldn't, no means just that no."
"And they say chivalry is dead."
CASBA
Byakuya pulled into an underground car park where there were several other cars, but the majority was parked up top.
"VIP entrance is through this way," he said offering her his arm, which she hooked her arm through.
At the door a very tall well stocked man, stepped out allowing them to pass. Once inside Rukia had to admit that the club décor was the first thing to catch anyone's attentions. She followed Byakuya as he led them over to an empty lounge love settee for two; he took her coat and placed it over the back.
"What would you like to drink?"
"Whisky,"
"Any particular preference…?"
"Yamazaki, two ice neat,"
"Interesting choice of drink,"
"What you thought I'd say champagne?"
"Yes,"
"Champagne is overrated, I prefer a strong, mature drink, if you know what I mean," she said chuckling as he shoots her a raised eyebrow before signaling a waitress.
"What can I get you Mr Kuchiki?"
"A bottle of my special two glasses and a bucket of ice,"
Rukia was on her third drink and Byakuya was on his second, Rukia had now dredged up enough courage over their small bouts of conversation and drinks to grab his arm and lead him to the dance floor.
Byakuya just stood there as Rukia danced around him, on the crowded dance floor…
"Come on shake something Mr. Kuchiki," she said leaning into his ear
"I d- is it necessary that I dance, you seem to be doing fine and enjoying yourself," he said into her ear not wanting to shout to be heard above the music.
"Yes, we're here to have fun,"
Byakuya didn't dance in public, and he wasn't about to admit whether he could or could not, Rukia usually did all the dancing, grinding into him if he remembered correctly. Still he should try. He tried following the rhythm of the music, but he just couldn't relax so he moved stiffly.
Though Rukia wanted to laugh she didn't, she knew how hard it was for Byakuya to relax and the word and meaning was foreign to him, but still she would commend him for trying, for stepping out of his comfort zone a little. She wondered where was the man she had met in Phuket, the one that exuded swagger like it was his second skin a …boldness and authority that was pure sex appeal.
No one was paying them attention she thought, but started to rethink that thought as she caught several women eyeing him hungrily, good dancer or not, he was just too damn sexy to be ignored. And when she saw one of the prey's, break away from the crowd to make a move, she made her move slipping closer to him, her arms pushing up under his jacket to wrap around his body to pull her body flat against him. She quickly looked over her left side to see if the woman was watching them, watching her. When she saw that she was, Rukia turned on her sweetest smile, as she turned in his arms and wrapped his arms around her. Hopefully those bitches would get the picture and the message loud and clear.
"She seems disappointed?"
Byakuya said close to her ear as he followed Rukia's pace and movements like they had been doing this for a while now that he had relax a little he found some rhythm.
"I beg your pardon," she stepped away and turned to face him.
"Rukia, tell me that little scene just now wasn't you telling that woman to stay away, that perhaps you've got dibs on me?"
"What if I was, your other dates may step aside and let someone else cut in but not me-I won't share with anyone famous or not and I ain't no patsy,"
"I've never had a woman be so territorial over me,"
"Territorial… if I didn't know better I'd think you liked what I did, is that a turn on for you Kuchiki? You want someone to mark you as theirs, like say take charge and maybe put you in your place for a change."
"And what if I did, where exactly world you mark me?"
Byakuya questioned with a raised eyebrow a small smirk playing at the edges of his voice and sensual kissable lips grazing the shell of her ear, letting her know he was fine with flirting.
She didn't have to look at his face to know that she was right.
"I can think of a few places at the moment but right now…"
Before she could finish her sentence Rukia put her arm up around his neck and pulled his head down to her lips. Her sweet tasting tongue plundering his mouth as he drew her tighter to his body forcing his leg between hers which she straddled somewhat as she began to rub herself against his thigh, as they moved to some kind of music, to the casual observer it might have looked like they were dancing, erotically except they were joined at the lips as Rukia continued to plunder his mouth.
Finally Byakuya broke their kiss, his vitreous eyes locked onto hers as she said imperturbably…
"I believe that should say something to them,"
"It sure says something to me, which is why I think you may have had a little to much to drink and your senses are compromised, so fortunately for you I am a gentleman and I promised that I would not take advantage of you if you became drunk, which I think you're half way to,"
"I'm hardly drunk or even tipsy right now,"
"Let's go have a seat," he said leading her back to the lounge chair.
"Would you like a drink of water?"
"No, I'm fine," Rukia said reaching for her glass and plopping two ice cube into it before pouring the glass half full of whisky.
"Rukia please don't take it the wrong way, I was only trying to stop you from making a mistake, because I happen to think that you're under the influence, at the restaurant you were both fearful and guarded, now you're behaving like this is how you are all the time and I don't think this is how you usually are... with me,"
"You're right, thank-"
"Byakuya Kuchiki, what a surprise?" A sultry female voice said interrupting them.
"Reiko," he replied drily
"Bya- is that anyway to greet an old friend, a good friend,"
"Reiko, can't you see that I am in the middle of something?"
"Who would this obviously fresh out of college, wet behind the ear little girl be?"
"Reiko, please don't insult my date,"
"I am not; I was merely asking who the child is?"
"I am not a child,"
"You don't look older that seventeen dear, but you must be, Byakuya knows this club has a strict policy that you must be twenty one and over to enter Casba,"
"Try twenty five,"
"Not even thirty." She said mockingly
"Reiko…!" he said quietly
"So is she why you haven't returned my calls?"
"No, you're the reason why I didn't return any of your calls, because I am not interested, last year you had your chance, but you couldn't make up your mind between Hiroshi, Takeshi or myself,"
"But when last you were here I told you that I ended things with them both,"
"Because- look Reiko it wouldn't have worked and I'd rather have you as a friend, we do good business together," he couldn't tell her that he was never really interested in her last year when they briefly hooked up because he's known all along that its Rukia he's wanted for the longest.
"Friend I don't need another friend, I have a great bunch of them,"
"I'm sorry, you can let me know though if we're still friends or not anymore, goodbye Reiko,"
"What's she got that I don't, I'm a fucking superstar, she-she is a -nobody, we were so good together, we'd be so good together now, beautiful people belong with beautiful people and she, is anything but beautiful, she's so plain."
"Plain suits me just fine," Byakuya said taking Rukia's hand, Rukia quickly grabbed up her clutch and coat as Byakuya started to walk away,
He exited the way they had entered with Reiko following hotly on their heels. They reached his car and he opened the door quickly for Rukia, by the time he got to the driver's side Reiko was blocking his door.
"Reiko you know you don't really want me, I know what happened with Takeshi and Hiroshi," he didn't really care if it looked like she had dumped him for two other guys who aren't worth nearly as much as he, hell she could have that award, and she should see that for what it is, if she wished to believe that he was behaving any which way this looked because she turned him down, then he could live with that to.
"Why is it that you guys prefer a younger woman to a mature woman,"
"Reiko it has nothing to do with age, whether it was college or last year, you never really wanted me, you always had better,"
"But you're the one that I let get away,"
"No, Reiko I care about you, but I am just never going to be in love with you,"
"But it doesn't have to be about love, think of our star power together,"
"And that is what it's all about for you, star power, staying in the spot light, but that's not what I want, never have been,"
"You're still hung up on this love bull shit, after all these years, love isn't real, but fame, money and power are and we would be a dynamic duo together."
"No- we can't and won't happen ever again Reiko, but I am here if you need me, you're not finished yet, you'll star in another huge movie or five and you'll be sporting your latest toy on your arm, you're not short of supply."
"But_"
"Good night Reiko," he said, to which she quietly stepped aside allowing him to get in the car.
"Kami you always seem to find the prettiest girls, to pick a fight with you," Rukia said as they merged on the main road.
"Not all the time and I'd venture to say that they usually find me…"
"I bet…"
"So where can I drop you off at Miss Hoshino?"
"It's only 12am do you have to work later?"
"Nothing that can't be postponed, do you have something in mind?"
"No not really, but I wouldn't be able to sleep now if I go home,"
"Do you have trouble sleeping?"
"Kind of- but…" she let it hang there
"So what do you want to do?"
"Talk I guess,"
"About?"
"Well for starters why haven't you asked me about my private life…? If I have a boyfriend or not, a girlfriend maybe…?"
"I didn't want to take liberties as we have only met but yesterday… a couple hours ago Rukia,"
"You know that's bull Bya, we've known each other far longer,"
"Have we really Rukia?"
"Yes we both know this, so tell me what's going on?"
"Would it be okay if we had this talk at my apartment, its close by" he said turning into a familiar underground car park, she recognized the building; after all she lived here for a long time.
~KI-SKY CONDO'S
"You have an apartment here?"
"Yes, a couple months ago one had become available and I took it," he said getting out and walking round to her door opening it for her, she accepted his hand, he let it go as they walked towards the private elevator. They both were quiet on the ride up; they got off at the top floor and walked to the only door on the floor.
He opened it and waited for her to enter. Rukia barely stifled her little gasp, the place had been completely redone, new furniture, new paint, it seemed much bigger with its new lay out, when she lived here there were bookshelves, and shoe racks and an additional architect table, now it had the bare minimum, a bigger flat screen wall mounted television, a dining set, a leather modular attico sofa set, she knew because she had one like it a smaller one though and huge oval windows which would definitely allow more light in during the day.
"Total remake, I guess you didn't like my sense of style,"
"Rabbit wallpaper isn't my style, even if it is somewhat cute," he said and they both laughed at this, she loved anything that had a rabbit on it.
Have a seat; can I get you anything to drink?"
"I'll have a bottle water, no more alcohol for me thank you,"
He poured himself a drink and took up a bottle-water for her then took a seat opposite her."
"Where do you want me to start," he asked
"Just tell me what's going on, did you have an accident, do you have amnesia…?"
"Nothing of that kind,"
"So what is going on?" She asked again sounding a bit peeved.
"Nothing out of the ordinary, except that I want to start over with you,"
"What do you mean start over,"
"Just that, start over… I want to get to know you Rukia,"
"But you know me, we were family for over a dozen years and you discarded me with piece of paper."
"I had to- I no longer wanted to be related to Rukia Kuchiki, do you remember saying that I only wanted you because you remind me of my wife then?"
"Bya- about that I am sorry about the way I reacted, and the things I said."
"No, I don't want you to be, I am glad that you spoke your mind freely... even if it… and I admit, it now- your words cut me deep."
"And for that I am sorry, and I also understand why you did what you did,"
"No you don't, I did some soul searching after I forced you to leave."
"I_"
"No, let me talk Rukia… Rukia I have never mistaken you for my wife, even if your resemblances were similar to a point but you were and are two different women. Where you're brave Hisana was timid, where you'd challenge me, she wouldn't dare question me, where you choose to work be much more she was contented with just tending the home and I could tell you a hundred more ways in which you are both so very different."
"So you're saying that you were unhappy in your marriage."
"I wouldn't know, but I do wonder about it… if she was still alive would I still feel the same about you…"
"You wouldn't…"
"I can't confirm that for sure, but I do know that I would have given her the option to leave, I wouldn't want her to be unhappy in a marriage where her husband wouldn't have loved her with his all."
"I uh- I uh- don't know what to say,"
"Rukia I do want to get to know you, because you captivate me. I want to get to know the real you… which is so many layers in my opinion, you never fail to surprise me continuously,"
"Byakuya there isn't more of me to get to know, you know me,"
"No- I knew a woman by the name of Rukia Kuchiki and that woman and I did and said hurtful things to each other. I only yesterday almost 13 hours ago exactly ran into a woman name Rukia Hoshino and I can't deny that she does, something to me, I can't stop thinking about her, and I want to get to know Rukia Hoshino."
"I uh- um- well,"
"I am not asking you to marry me Rukia, but I do want to ask you if we can try dating,"
"What about your family?"
"Grandfather wouldn't care as long as I am happy, as for the rest of my distant family I care not what they think,"
"But you're a workaholic, how will you make time to date?"
"Rukia I am my own boss, I have capable people to step in and handle things in my place,"
"But_"
"Rukia if it's too much pressure then I'm fine with starting off as friends as well,"
Rukia breathed a gentle sigh of relief, she was confused, this isn't what she expected when she asked to talk, but it would be better they just start as friends…
"I think I'd like to start with the friends thing first,"
The rest of the early morning passed with them talking about the new changes in their lives, from his cutting his hair to Rukia going into business with her friend, none didn't dare thread in that no-entry zone without understanding the consequences; was it really to leave the scab in place? At 3am Rukia announced that she was ready to go home.
The drive was quiet, but not unbearable or awkward. He walked her to her building steps and watched her walk the rest of the way inside, before getting back in his car.
In her apartment safe and sound, Rukia leaned against the door and breathed out in disappointment. Damn she hoped he would have at least kissed her good night/ morning, but he didn't, he didn't even hold her hand or promise to call her and she had to wonder if she had let him down again by asking him for them to just start as friends, when they were long pass that stage.
'Kami not right now…" she muttered to no one as she dragged herself to her room, stripping down and getting under her covers, she'd worry about stuff when she had some sleep, she was suddenly very tired.
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PS:Guest 7/21/13 . chapter 8
uniqlo's clothes are cheap, you know... (YEAH m8 I KNOW but when i was in JAPAN last year SEPT. i went shopping there and other places and I really like shopping at UNIQLO'S because they are affordable for everyday wear than at the other high end stores, its not every time I travel to wherever i feel to buy designer BRANDS though i can make the effort to afford it since I make decent money as a (GAMING & MEDICAL IT ENGINEER/ SOFTWARE DEVELOPER/PROGRAMMER.)
