Fork In The Road

Chapter 3: The Blessing

Immediately hearing the familiar voice, Ichigo's head snapped up.

"Rukia…," he breathed out, "I—"

"Have finally come back!" Rukia cut in, leaping into his arms to give him a huge bear hug (or in her case, a "chappy bunny" hug. /), "I can't believe it! I've missed you so much! Come over to my part of the house! Come on!"

Ichigo laughed, letting her drag him to her room. Inside was practically Chappy Bunny paradise. It was a pale purplish pink, with all sorts of "junk" to make it feel like home. She made him sit down on the little bean bags and started blabbering on about how 10 years seemed just like yesterday and how glad she was to see him.

"I've missed you so much! Are you staying here…permanently?" Rukia questioned him, hoping to find out that he would stay with her forever. "Oh…yeah, I guess so. I'll be returning to the human world a few times every once in a while to visit, though."

Rukia squealed, "Alright. I'll give you a tour of the house!"

She swiftly hopped up and held his hand. Her small hand fit perfectly with Ichigo's. They walked around the huge household, shortly before bumping into her brother.

"Nii-sama! Guess who's here!"

Byakuya hadn't seen her so joyful in a long time.

"Rukia, before you drag Ichigo off to wherever you are taking him, may I have a word with him?"

Ichigo, dumbfounded, looked up. "Me?"

"Yes, you! Get in there, idiot!" Rukia yelled and pushed him in, "Get in so you can finish up quickly and hang out with me!"

Ichigo's hand ruffled the back of his hair, a sick look on his face, as he followed him in. Rukia gave him a reassuring smile before skipping off to the garden.

"Close the door behind you."

Ichigo slid the door close, "So," he turned around, "what do you want to talk to me about?"

"Sit down."

"You sure are brief. What is it?" Ichigo began getting curious.

"Do you intend on staying here? Marrying Rukia, even?"

Ichigo blushed, "Shit. I'm blushing…" he muttered.

Byakuya eyed him, and Ichigo swore he saw a bit of laughter flicker in his eyes.

"I'd appreciate it if you don't tell her, but in my room, I already have an engagement ring."

"You have my blessing."

A/N: sorry for not updating! I've been hooked onto Grey's Anatomy recently. It is REALLY good. I recommend it for all of you!