Prompt #3: Five Years Later; May 2011. Rating: G.

Five Years Later

"Woman, why must I wear this?"

Ulquiorra is gravely curious but obediently extends his arm.

Orihime squirts another glob of SPF 50+ into her palm and rubs it vigorously on his skin.

"Because," she says, shifting back in the sand to assess her handiwork. Ulquiorra glistens with lotion. "You're so pale, the sun could burn you." She frowns, then snaps her fingers.

"Here!"

She removes her sunhat and plops it on his head. Ulquiorra still looks perplexed as she ties the yellow ribbons beneath his chin.

"But this body will not burn to ash."

"I know," says Orihime, kissing him.