Shades Of Orange SEQUELCONT TO TAXI, TAXI

by SLYSWN

"You are Kurosaki Ichigo, a nineteen year old college boy who captivated me, Aizen Sousuke, a man who readily will admit that he believed himself to be above such basic and troublesome emotions of the average human." ( Title is borrowed from the "14 Shades of Gray" Album by Staind not E.L. James "Shades" series ) A/N 4/18/15 Alternate Winners KENICHI now up! Finally!

16. Chapter 16

DISCLAIMER: I don't wish for world destruction but I do wish for berries, orange ones that is- Whatcha say Kubo-sensei wanna share ownership of your genius creation?

When Bonne originally convinced/inspired me to make a sequel to TAXI, TAXI I don't think either one of us expected it to turn into this-hope you like the ending Sarah!

A/N Yes this is the end of it all…my longest project to date comes to a close.

THANKS TO ALL FOR READING/FAVORITING/ ETC…

And an special extra thanks to:

BonneNuit

RamencupMiso

Ane-chan

Totoromo

~SLY~

Closing notes at the bottom

Warnings: AU, OOC, AiIchi, OthersIchi, other pairings, spelling, grammar, punctuation, plot holes (unintentional) run-ons, flashbacks, flamboyant characters, mind manipulation, insane characters, mpreg, cross-dressing, language, violence, switching-views, DIALOGUE, crack, humor, 'angst', 'drama', ETC….

Shades of Orange

FINAL CHAPTER

ITS BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE…

()()()

(Hinamori)

It shouldn't be this damn difficult-why were they making it so damn difficult for her to get a clear shot?

Hinamori didn't have any desire to take out an innocent bystander-if the blonde could just move a couple of inches to the left-no the right-no no no damn it!

As if to mock her, the blonde moved in closer to the strawberry.

Hinamori had to think fast.

Although sunrise was still many hours away the longer it took to kill the she-devil the less amount of time she'd have to hide his body-then again they were high up in the mountains-practically in the middle of nowhere so maybe she'd get lucky and a bear or some kind of wild and deadly creature would appear.

Granted it wouldn't be much of a meal-more like a dessert-strawberry sorbet a la mountain.

()()()

(Hiyori)

Instincts had never led her down the wrong path before-it wasn't a matter of thinking or guessing Hiyori KNEW someone was following them-the only question remaining was why?

She considered everything she knew and had discovered about the berry walking beside her. He was such a likable guy-who could dislike someone like Ichigo?

He couldn't have enemies could he?

'Don't be so fuckin' stupid Hiyori of course he's got enemies-everyone's got enemies.'

'Okay then next question should be how strong or dangerous is this enemy? And will I be able to take them down if necessary?'

A snort 'No wonder no guy ever wastes his time with you-you spend too much time trying to be the man.'

'Ah shut up Orochi-you need to focus on sniffing out our opponent.'

()()

(Hinamori)

The brown-eyed girl was pulled from her happy thoughts at the sound of-

"Shh! I think I might've heard something just now."

"What are you talking about Hiyori? There's no one out here but us."

Hinamori froze in her tracks-cursing herself for wearing such clunky boots.

She ducked behind a tree just in time-a mere second later and they would have surely spotted her-heart pounding-fingers sweating-forcing her self to hold her breath-

"Hiyori it was probably just a deer or something."

"Are you some kind of idiot berry-face? Wait! No scratch that of course you are-there are no damn deer up in Viso ski lodge."

"Well then maybe it was a night owl or something."

"Owls do not make footprints in the snow Ichigo. They also don't wave around bright pink flash lights with blue feathers dangling off of em'-some one is following us."

The blondes' voice was serious. Hinamori forced her body lower to the ground behind the tree-twitching her nose in distaste when she detected a swirl of yellow which damn sure wasn't fucking food coloring.

"You're paranoid. It's probably just a ski instructor or a security guard or something-we're not supposed to be roaming the mountains at this time of night you know."

Awww the strawberry whore actually had a brain wasn't that nice.

Hinamori felt like hurling because despite their back and forth bickering the blonde and the whore seemed very close.

No it was not jealousy seeping into her brain, her bones, her entire being just then.

Like she gave a rat's left testicle if-

"Shut up! I know what I'm talking about because I come to this mountain every damn weekend so I know it like the annoying hollow who lives in the back of my brain."

Hollow? Hollow? What the hell was the blonde talking about? Why was she talking about her brain? Could it be-could the blonde be a minion? Is that why she was so close to the strawberry she-devil?

Hinamori felt her opportunity to dispose of the demon slipping out of her grasp-NO! NO! NO!

She absolutely could not let this bitch prevent her from murdering the whore who had brained washed her Aizen-sama.

With a battle cry that could be heard clear across the mountain range and do Priestess Tobiume proud, Hinamori leapt out and charged at her target (1)

()()

(Ichigo)

He was only half listening to Hiyori's paranoid babbles-because as it was he had more important things on his mind.

Ichigo did not make promises only to break them but it was a bit of challenge trying to figure how to evenly divide his time between his two suitors on the road to love.

Aizen had been the one to ask first and it warmed Ichigo's entire being to know that the man desired him to such a degree-meant even more that the man allowed him space and time to think-gave him the chance-the option to back out-

When Ichigo thought about how warm and gentle Sousuke's expression had been-how open and realistic the man had been with him he found that he could almost forgive the man for being such a pervert.

He would go to Aizen's mansion on Christmas Eve and collect the replacement underwear that the man had promised him and while he was there he might give something in return.

After all tis' the season to be…well he didn't have it in his heart to be greedy and needy didn't sound all that appealing either but perhaps Sousuke would find it amusing if Ichigo demanded sex?

Could he really do such a thing?

But wait that wasn't exactly giving the man something was it? Well it was but-

Ichigo frowned-there were a few things about Aizen that made him feel uneasy-uncertain-

He did not like the way Sousuke spoke about women-did not approve of the way the man spoke to his daughter.

Treating the girl as though she were a thorn in his side.

Is that how he would treat Ichigo once he grew bored of their relationship down the line?

Would he see him as nothing more than an eyesore?

Aizen Sousuke was not an easy man to unravel-unmask by any stretch and it was because of this reason that Ichigo wished to learn more.

It wasn't fair of him to pass judgment. There was probably a lot that went on between Aizen and the girl that he didn't understand.

Although Hinamori hadn't directly spoken to him only sneered and made nasty untrue comments-accusations really-for all he knew the girl might just simply suffer from some sort of father complex.

She probably looked up to Aizen. It must have been a shock. Ichigo put himself in Hinamori's place for a moment-yes her anger was justified.

It probably wasn't every day she walked into a library and found a half naked college boy on her father's couch.

Ichigo face flushed at the memory.

Yes he had enjoyed that afternoon with Sousuke-yes he wished for more afternoons with Sousuke but without the spectators.

'Never again.'

Outside of chaste kissing or holding hands Ichigo had no desire to put on a show.

His sex life with Sousuke (once it reached that point) was sacred-personal-not something to be publicized.

To put it lightly Ichigo had felt drained after that afternoon with Aizen.

It was enjoyable and he had half a mind to just crash on Sousuke's bed but he didn't and why?

Because Ichigo didn't want to give off the wrong impression.

Yes they had seen each others naked bodies-they had pleasured each other orally-in addition the man had made him black out-the sheer intensity-the pleasure-nothing but a teaser probably-an appetizer before the main course-

Ichigo didn't admit it to himself then but he'd admit to himself now it was almost too much to handle-the real reason he fled-

He flinched-running wasn't really in his nature but yes that is exactly what he had done.

And why?

Ichigo wasn't ready to say the answer out loud-though he knew it in his heart-could feel it in his soul-

Sousuke was-

'There ya go thinkin' too much again-I'm tellin' ya King stop thinkin' so damn much and just let yourself feel-

'There's more to a bond-a relationship then what happens when the lights go dim and when the clothes come off-I want to know more of his story-I want to-

'Yap yap yap doncha ever know how to shut up and just let things play out-I mean think about it how much do you know about anyone-take Pachi for example-sure ya know the basics like his age and the fact that he's divorced and the fact that he has a daughter whose gettin' hitched soon-ya know about his dog and how he can't live with out the damn thing but what else has he told ya? Nothin-and you're okay with that.'

'No I'm not. Relationships are based on many things-

Blah blah and? Listen' Ichi I'm tellin' ya if ya let a good thing walk away ya are so gonna regret it. Just sit back and enjoy the ride- -think of how oh so perfect it'll feel to have 10 plus inches of grade A man beef pumpin' in ya.'

'10 plus geez do you have to be so effing crude all the damn time?'

'Heh what's the matter King, worried ya pretty ass will rip? Ya could always start with smaller meats and work your way up to the large ones-bet even ya friend Keigo wouldn't mind tappin' that ass of yours-he can't be no bigger than an average 5 inch maybe a lil' more

A snicker

'Ya could even make a game of it, put on a blonde wig and call ya self Goldilocks-stead a searchin' for the best porridge or bed you're selecting the beef that fits ya best-this ones too big-this ones too small-this ones just RIGHT! Speakin' of jus' right maybe ya should walk down the aisle with Aizen Sousuke-sama and all that-7 plus inches seemed pretty damn promising

'SHUT UP SHIROSAKI! I've had enough of your opinions.'

Another snicker

'Jus sayin' if ya ever give ya pretty ass a chance to experience the pleasure of GRADE A BEEF ya won't be so-

'FUCK JUST SHUT THE HELL UP!"

A loud cackle and the voice fell silent.

Damn Shirosaki.

Here Ichigo had been reaching an epiphany of sorts or whatever the fuck it was called and his damn 'hollow' just had to jump on in with his typical crude and perverse lines-

Ichigo frowned. It was too much.

Maybe instead of spending Christmas with Sousuke or Kenpachi he should distance himself-go far far away where no one-not even Rukia could find him.

His frown deepened. No he couldn't run away. Couldn't further prolong the inevitable-he had to act-had to move forward-had to do away with his pesky virginity once and for all.

He was getting a headache just thinking about it-

Why? This is getting beyond ridiculous.

Maybe Hiyori is right-maybe I would be better off just having sex already-doesn't matter with who so long as they know what their doing r-?

"DIE STRAWBERRY WHORE!"

Ichigo blinked.

He couldn't even recall when he had stopped walking and now a girl-a familiar looking girl-Hinamori?

Yes Hinamori was charging straight for him-her dark brown eyes were spinning madly-between her dainty fingers shaking-shaking and unsteady-it did not look like a prop or a children's toy-

What the hell was Hinamori doing here and why the hell was she carrying a gun?

Why was there dried blood at the corner of her lip-why were there twigs in her hair-why was Hiyori suddenly shielding him?

Ichigo thought that it was high time he should stop spacing out because lately whenever he did things like this happened "Hiyori?"

"Shut up and run for it berry-face I got this!"

()()()

(Shinji)

He knew he should have gone with Hiyori despite her protests-if he had then he wouldn't have to worry right now-not that Hiyori wasn't tough and couldn't handle herself (because she could) but she tended to jump into dangerous situations with out thinking.

And the fact that she had dragged Ichigo with her in order to challenge the orange berry to some stupid race down the ski slopes-

Much as Hiyori enjoyed denying being related to him Shinji couldn't imagine his life with out his sister.

So it wasn't really a matter of if-Shinji would round up his lodging companions and go searching for Hiyori and Ichigo.

()()()

(Kenpachi)

Ichigo was his therefore everything that belonged to the youth belonged to Kenpachi by default.

Ichigo's friends were too intimidated by him to protest his sleeping in the orange berry's bedroom.

()()

The blanket on which should have been on the bed was a wrinkled mess on the floor, the bed sheets half off the bed-a mini mountain of pillows in various shades of blue were propped up against the headboard-

It made Kenpachi grin and think perverted thoughts.

For what other reason could Ichigo have had to leave his bedroom in such a mess other than to have-Kenpachi pressed his nose into the sheets searching for evidence to confirm his suspicions.

He was a bit disappointed when he found no traces of the youth's special nectar unless-

Gray-green eyes shifted towards the tiny waste basket placed beside the desk top-

Kenpachi was not the type to go dump diving but his curiosity was beginning to get the best of him-so like a naughty teenager reborn again he abandoned the non-soiled bed sheets in favor of searching the waste basket.

A wad of tissues would be more than enough to confirm it-either that or soiled briefs

()

Once again Kenpachi was disappointed to find no such traces of berry nectar.

He frowned trying to figure out why he wasn't having any luck in his search.

And then it dawned on him-the partially opened door connected to the room-must surely be the bathroom-Ichigo's private bathroom to be exact

Kenpachi grinned widely and made his way towards said bathroom

()()

In his college years Kenpachi had spent a few months studying forensics-he had learned/discovered that even water could not completely erase all evidence-the evidence of self pleasure

()

Pulling back the shower curtain-the man had finally struck gold!

He hadn't convinced Ichigo to masturbate in front of him-hell he hadn't even seen the boy with out his underwear yet and he'd bet anything that the orange berry was the type who looked even hotter with out clothes than he did with clothes.

There was a knock at the door pulling Kenpachi from his musing-

"Ichi-nii why are Rukia-nee, Renji-san, Hime-san and a Pocky Pal celebrity lounging in our living room?"

Ichi-nii?

Could this be one of Ichigo's sisters?

Kenpachi knew if he didn't answer the girl would probably barge in but how exactly would he explain his appearance sans Ichigo?

()()

(Hiyori)

But of course the berry wasn't even paying attention-of course he didn't realize just how dire the situation was-of course he pushed Hiyori out of the way in order to try and reason with the blood-crazed brown-eyed girl

()()

The first shot went off. It was a deafening sound-luckily it had hit the ground and not human flesh.

Hiyori had little time to breathe a sigh of relief as the insane brown-eyed girl pulled the trigger again-

This time less than an inch from grazing Ichigo's shoulder-

Hiyori stomped her foot-absolutely fucking furious with herself for not charging at the bitch the moment she jumped out from behind the trees.

Rolling her eyes when the orange berry still tried to reason with the girl "Listen Hina-

"Idiot," Hiyori hissed "That's not the kind of creature who wants to listen to reason-fucking put up your guard before she puts a bullet in your chest."

A third gun shot went off-up in the sky-

Hiyori had enough!

She charged-bulldozed right into the duo who were struggling-well more like Hiamori thrashing violently and smacking the berry with the gun while the berry tried to free it from the girl's grasp-

Hiyori's interference worked out quite well all things considered-the gun went flying

But now the deranged brunette and the berry went rolling down, down the hill at wind speed-

Hiyori thought quickly-reaching into the pocket of her pants-fishing out a rope-

Shinji and the others always made fun of her for going around with random items in her pockets but quickly shut up when said items in came in handy during times like these.

()()

(Starrk)

He'd been perfectly content to just stay in the vehicle and catch up on much needed sleep-in fact if Starrk had it his way he'd sleep through the entire holiday season-possibly longer-not resurface until spring time-

Of course he couldn't really do this tempting as it was-he'd miss all the action if he just sat around.

Plus he did wonder who would win the berry in the end?

He still didn't like that his 'siblings' treated and talked about the youth as though he were some kind of prize but in a way that's exactly what Ichigo was.

Of course what ever decision the guy wound up making Starrk would be happy for him-

Grimmjow might not take it lying down and Nnoitra had apparently developed some sort of over night obsession with the berry but their dearest "uncle" had a plan and not even those two idiots were foolish enough to challenge Gin-

As for Halibel and Nel?

If the duo had a proper female role model none of this would have ever happened.

The closest they'd come is their other 'brother' Ulquiorra but really being born a hermaphrodite didn't exactly make him a female per se.

Starrk was just glad that Lilinette didn't have get to caught up in all this lying and deceiving and mind games-he made it so his lil' sis only knew what he felt was necessary for her to know-

Then there was Hinamori-he tried to get the girl to open up to him a time or two but she was a tough nut to crack and frankly the attempts he had made were exhausting so he eventually gave up.

Worrying and stressing over his moronic siblings was not how the Coyote wished to spend the winter season-if he couldn't sleep his days and nights away then he'd at least like to spend some 'fun fun time' with the good doctor.

Once it happened (and it would damn well happen if he had anything say-which he would) Ishida Ryuken would be his single greatest conquest to date.

Just a little more and the good doctor would cave-

Starrk let out a sigh as he fondled the stolen tie between his fingertips and then rather reluctantly placed it back into his pocket.

He couldn't waste time daydreaming he had to go inside and stop Grimmjow and Nnoitra from killing one another.

With a lazy yawn he unlocked the door and exited the vehicle.

()()

(Aizen)

The Kurosaki's weren't fans of airing their personal lives out to the public-not to mention it was quarter past 4 in the morning-

()()()

Behind a great man lies an even greater woman with the fierce intensity to protect what matters most to her.

Despite only having lived 29 years and counting Aizen Sousuke had truly believed that he understood the unbreakable bond between a mother and her son but Kurosaki Masaki redefined the meaning.

After inviting Aizen inside their private suite the woman began to hound him with questions/accusations starting with the basics

"Who are you? Why have you come here? How did you know where to find us? I think I might have seen your face somewhere before-what district are you from? And who the hell knocks on someone's door at such an ungodly hour-wait don't answer that!" A smirk, which could almost be considered intimidating "We'll let the lie detector tell us."

"Honey, I don't think that's nece-

"Quiet Isshin! You're much too trusting of men with shiny hair and fancy business suits-its no wonder Jiro pulled a fast one on you that time and you wound up having to date a lone shark to make up for the difference." (2)

"Masaki, my sweet angel you have to understand that even as I reached the highest peak of pleasure at that time and even when I was being subjected to be-

"I don't care to hear you reminiscing about your sexual exploits from your youthful days-go make yourself useful and make a fresh pot of coffee." Eyes narrowed "I will find out who our visitor is."

()()

The woman's eyes held the same kind of fierce intensity as Ichigo-kun. Her hair was long, wavy and the colors of autumn.

She was dressed casually but with a certain flair that would make her stand out in a large crowd. Her voice was soft, melodic ideal for lullabies or choirs. Her posture was relaxed but not slouched.

She was the kind of woman who would age gracefully.

"So you wish to court my son, is that correct Aizen Sousuke?"

Aizen ignored the device that the woman had strapped him to and answered truthfully "I have already begun to court Ichigo-kun and I will continue with or without your blessing."

Her eyes narrowed but she did not comment only moved forward with the next question "Ichigo is a college boy, why are you, a grown man of 30 years, interested in him?"

"29," Aizen corrected finding it amusing when the woman's left brow twitched.

"29 years then, now answer the question!"

He couldn't simply respond with the cliché I fell in love, I've never felt this way before, I don't know its difficult to explain, I was drawn to him right from the start'

"He holds the missing half."

A raised brow "The missing half of what, Aizen Sousuke?"

Just as Aizen had refused to tell his mother he refused to tell Masaki and simply settled on "He is quite unlike any other person I've ever come across. I find myself intrigued."

The woman did not give any hint or sign as to how she felt about his answer just fired off the next question-

"So even if I do not give you my blessing to date my son you will still date him anyway, is that correct?"

Was it really necessary for her to repeat herself?

How annoying!

"Yes. Nothing will stop me from obtaining what is mine."

"Let's get one thing straight: My son is not some thing-some possession or trophy! He does not belong to anyone-if he should choose to return your feelings then that will be his decision and his decision alone. But do not think for one second that you will control Ichigo!"

"I do not wish to control him Masaki-san, I wish to make Ichigo-kun my bride."

()()()

(HInamori)

Hinamori couldn't believe her rotten luck!

Now because of the stupid strawberry whore and his blonde minion she wasn't going to get her crimson parade-wasn't going to get her dream wedding-wasn't going to experience the most amazing sex of her life-because of these two-because of these two she'd probably never see her beloved Aizen-sama again.

She'd wander the road between life and after life for the rest of her non-existence hoping-dreaming of moment she would cross paths-be reunited once more with her Aizen-sama.

"Take my hand!"

Take the hand of the she-devil himself? He must really think she was a fuckin' idiot!

Wait! Were those tears in the corner of his eyes?

No! It was a trick-he didn't care what happened to her-

"Grab my hand, Hinamori!"

Why? Why was he telling her to take his hand? So he could rip it off and present it as a trophy-an offering when he returned to the underworld?

"Please take my hand?"

Was that desperation she was hearing in his voice now? No-it was another trick-the lil' bastard was just making her think-

"You dumb bitch hurry up and grab Ichigo's hand I'm not gonna hold this damn rope forever!"

Rope? Wait! The blonde minion was helping her-even though the stupid skank is the reason Hinamori was clinging to her life in the first place.

Lies-all lies-they were just mocking her-the moment she reached out they would laugh and kick her and she would tumble down, down, down-severing her spinal cord-the pain would be too much to bare-her last vision would be of Aizen-sama's gentle smile and then silence.

()()

(Hiyori)

It just didn't make any damn sense to Hiyori.

Why the hell was the berry risking his own damn life in order to help some crazy twat out?

"Ichigo this is pointless-she's not gonna t-

"We have to try Hiyori I'm not going to let an innocent girl die just because of a misunderstanding-we'll bring her back to the cabin-tell her why I'm out here with you and then-

"Innocent? Innocent? Are you out of your fucking mind? Or are you having some kind of delayed reaction from that blow you took to the head-there ain't nothin' innocent about that thing down there!"

The orange haired youth shook his head "You don't have to understand Hiyori-just don't let go of the rope."

Hiyori rolled her eyes and snorted "I'm not gonna do anything of the s-ahhhh!"

THE FUCK?

"Hiyori?"

"Hiyori?"

"HIYORI!"

Alright what ever or whoever had the nerve to crash into her just now-tackle her to the ground was going to die a slow and painful death-

Once Hiyori managed to get out from under the bastard-that is-

Hiyori was finding it difficult to breathe right now-the sudden impact-the blow to her back-hurt like a son of a bitch and even though it had winded her-she hadn't lost her grip on the rope-rather she tightened it on instinct-

()()()

(Kenpachi)

"So you want to date Ichi-nii?"

"We're already dating."

Not exactly true but the moment Kenpachi found out just where Ichigo had been dragged off too he was going to make it official.

He already made up his mind-the moment Ikkaku and Yumichika called him back and recited the coordinates of Viso Kenpachi would walk out the door and not return until he had his orange berry in his arms.

At the moment he was sitting in the living room with Ichigo's two younger sisters. The one with the dark hair, Karin, had Ichigo's glower while the one with the light hair, Yuzu, had the youth's smile.

Karin was doing her own form of interrogation while Yuzu whipped up a late night snack and pulled out family photo albums.

Not that Kenpachi would admit it out loud because it would totally deface his manly image but he was excited about what Ichigo looked like when he was a scrawny runt.

()()

(Hiyori)

His eyes reminded her of little ice crystals-his hair was whiter than the snow on the ground-the stern look on his face seemed better suited for an old man.

"Hiyori? Answer me!"

Oh that's right Ichigo was still calling her-

Hiyori wanted to answer the berry but now that she had this little snowflake bastard pinned she wasn't going to let him out of her sight-

"Who the hell are you?"

His voice was as cold as the frost on the windows back at the lodge "What do you intend to do with Hinamori?"

Do? Was this guy fuckin' serious.

Hiyori's brief fascination with the little bastard quickly flew out the window when he asked such a stupid question. "We're trying to save her you damn idiot-what the hell is your reason for being out here?"

""Hiyori?"

Hiyori let out a growl-Ichigo sounded kind of really fucking annoying with the way he kept calling her name-

"Yeah, yeah I'm fine-did you grab her yet or not?"

"I got her but she uh-I think she fainted or something."

"Fainted? What the hell does he mean Hinamori fainted-tell him to bring her up now!"

Hiyori let out a sigh-vowing to take a long vacation when all this drama with the berry face and co came to a close.

()()

(Nnoitra)

It wasn't really in Nnoitra's nature to compromise but he supposed if he had to share his pet with anyone who better than Grimmjow?

Now all he had to do was get the blue-haired male to agree.

"Oi pussy cat when you're done stuffing your face with my food I have something I'd like to discuss with ya."

Mouthful of food Grimmjow responded by flipping the bird at the dark haired male.

Nnoitra's unscarred eye twitched "Listen Grimm I'm not askin' ya I'm tellin' ya I have somethin' to say to ya and you will listen!"

Grimmjow swallowed his food. "So talk."

"I feel kind of guilty."

Grimmjow snorted "What are you making some type of confession and asking for forgiveness now denture face?"

Nnoitra's grin vanished.

He may not have perfect canines like the pussy cat but his teeth had never been nor would they ever be fucking dentures!

"You're on thin ice so just shut ya yap and listen!"

"You keep flapping your gums but I hear is blah blah bullshit bullshit."

"It's about Ichi-pet."

Electric blues flashed, "It's Ichigo or brat, there is no Ichi-pet dumb ass."

"Pet, brat, it's a love name-same damn difference."

"Love?" A sneer "You wouldn't know how to love even if it came up and bit you in the ass, Jiruga!"

A shrug, "Doesn't matter my pet will teach me what I need to know after I teach him what he needs to know-it's a win-win."

"Not if I can help it," A fist met the end of the table "KUROSAKI IS MINE-HAS ALWAYS BEEN MINE-WILL ALWAYS BE MINE!"

"Really? Then why aren't you with him right now? Why did Neliel tell me that you were cryin' into ya pillow the night my pet rejected you?"

"He didn't fucking reject me! I tease Kurosaki and he calls he me an asshole-its how we communicate."

"Exactly. It's foreplay-same damn thing I did with my pet."

When Grimmow's electric blues narrowed Nnoitra considered retracting his statement but if he did it would be like admitting defeat- "Different method, same result-that's all I'm sayiin' no need to get ya fur all ruffled pussy cat."

"You can spin it anyway you like-doesn't change facts and the fact is: YOU ATTACKED HIM! Attacked from behind which makes you nothin' more than a FUCKING coward!"

Nnoitra flinched-when Grimmjow put it that way it sounded really-erm not good.

"Okay so I got a bit carried away."

"A bit? Neliel told me you left a fuckin' gash the size of a golf ball in his head!"

Damn Neliel and her damn embellishments!

"Really and did Neliel also tell ya that I held Ichi while he was bleeding and emptying his guts out all over the backseat? Did she tell ya that my pet purred for me-placed his head in my lap-did she hell ya that unh?"

Okay so now he was embellishing at bit too but Grimmjow didn't have to know that.

He needed the bastard to understand.

A snort "I don't fucking care! Kurosaki was probably delirious or somethin'-bet he thought it was me-poor bastard was most likely dreamin' that I was comin' to his rescue-wouldn't be the first time-he dreams of me often ya know? Starrk even said so-heard the brat mumble in his sleep many times," a triumphant grin "Even let me blow him with out protest in the movie theatre and if I hadn't been so fuckin' pushy I guarantee he woulda let me fuck his pretty lil' ass with my tongue that night-it was snowin' and he forgot his coat and snuggled so damn close to me I could sm-

"And yet some how he wound up giving head to "father" less than 24 hours later-

A plate went flying through the air-hitting the wall-missing Nnoitra's head by just a fraction of an inch-the kitten was positively seething now

'Time to bring it home.'

"You're nothin' but a lil' lyin' bastard, Jiruga!" A growl which was positively feline.

Nnoitra's grin widened "Nah-much as it pains me to say-specially to a bastard like ya but Aizen is one step ahead of us and according to one of my blue birds there's a baby and a weddin' proposal on the way."

"BULLSHIT! Where the-who the hell told you this?"

"I have my sources just as you have yours pussy cat."

Another plate went flying!

()()

(Ichigo)

He was saving Sousuke's daughter so by default it meant that he should be with Sousuke-possibly? Maybe?

Ichigo had no way of really knowing if this was true but the more he thought about it the more it seemed to click.

But what was he going to do about Kenpachi? He couldn't just walk away from the man without a proper explanation-nor could he shut off his attraction for the man-at the very least he owed Kenpachi a date-

Well he owed the wild haired male a lot more than that but-

Alright his original plan…run with that-

Right his original plan had been to cook Kenpachi dinner and then uh take things to the next level-it was supposed to be simplistic yet romantic-falling into the man's arms was supposed to feel natural-rather than being pressured into it Ichigo was going to take the initiative-

But now as he played his fantasy/plan out in his head it morphed in to…

What could be more fitting then a bearskin rug?

There's was something positively primal, positively dirty, positively Kenpachi about this new image playing out in Ichigo's mind.

The dinner, which he had spent several hours preparing, remained untouched because both Ichigo and Kenpachi were far more interested in touching one another.

()()

Only split seconds away from the main event and Ichigo found himself pulling away-backing away-lowering his head because something in his mind was shouting-ROARING-betrayal, betrayal, betrayal-

And he knew in his heart if he went through with it-gave himself entirely to Kenpachi he would ruin his chance at true happiness-

But how the hell was he supposed to explain this to Kenpachi-he was a writhing, dripping, heated mess-the man-this man had made him this way-he had given all signs-made all the sounds-signals that he wanted more-needed more-practically begged Kenpachi to take him and now now because his stupid brain-his conscience won't shut the fuck up he's scrambling in search of his clothes-

()

But Ichigo soon finds that all actions come with consequences and he cannot tempt a beast and not deliver!

Paying little attention to his screaming or his crying (yes he's an emotional wreck so he's fucking crying by now) begging the man to let him go-it was a mistake-it wasn't his intention to lead Kenpachi on for this long but-

Kenpachi does not care to hear-now the man really isn't much a man at all-his image is morphing-and Ichigo is scraping, scrambling for the door at the end of the hall way but its useless-

()()

The hallway-the door-his exit-his escape from the now deranged and lust-driven giant seems impossible-

And Ichigo feels so incredibly pathetic-this is a lot more than letting his wild imagination get the best of him-he's so fucking horrified he might piss himself-and really there is nothing sexy about that at all-

How could things have gone so wrong-is this a sign-a message-is this

()()

"Fe Fi Fo Fum I smell the blood of a virgin's-

Okay shut up brain! Just shut up do not even finish-

Ichigo is not a fucking damsel in distress and even if his Kenpachi-yes his Kenpachi has transformed into some savage beast of a giant it does not mean-

"I'm coming for you Ichigo." The guttural rasping growl that he has grown so fond of-it sounds tainted now-

Ichigo shuts his eyes-which is ridiculous because their already shut because he's dreaming-more like having a nightmare-why is he so fucking weird?

A high pitched whistle followed by..

()

The door-the very same door that the orange berry had been desperately trying to reach blew open-this time instead of riding a Harley and laughing like an insane villain, Sousuke was riding something a lot more believable.

A horse-a mustang to be exact-

The man's smooth baritone-

"What am I to do with you?"

Had he been any one else-like a cute and bubbly 5'5 girl with hopes and dreams of her modern day Romeo Ichigo would have surely fallen into some sort of drunken swoon just then-falling before the man's feet babbling out of character nonsense like 'My King you have come'

To which the man would follow up with "Yes my future Queen I have come to slay the giant and win your hand in marriage."

No instead Sousuke was wearing that infuriating smirk "Does something trouble you, Ichigo-kun?"

A snarling glare "What do you think bastard?"

The man, "his rescuer" tossed his head back and laughed "And even in the face of danger that temper and foul mouth of yours does not vanish, you really are quite something."

The giant is not far behind now-the heavy footfalls of his boots echo like drums-

Ichigo has never been the type to stand back and let another man fight his battles anyway-he reaches for the shiny blade tied at Aizen's waist and unsheathes it-wishing he had more of chance to look the weapon over-take time to fully admire the craftsman ship but he has a giant to-well not slay since even though the thing now closing in on him barely resembles Kenpachi-he can't bring himself to kill it especially since somewhere, deep down the good, the kind, the gentle still exists-

All Ichigo needs to do is wound the beast while Sousuke watches on in amusement.

An eye roll, really why exactly did he fall for such arrogant bastard again?

()()

Crimson streaks dripping from his arms, legs and chest-this damn sure is not your average fairy tale!

The good part is he's not limping-his pride will not allow him to do so-

And he will not turn away from the now unconscious giant-(Who needs a deadly weapon when a strong sleeping choke hold will suffice?) without a proper goodbye kiss because after all even if he may not have planned it that way-Kenpachi holds a piece of his heart and Ichigo can not and will not just leave things as they are even though he can feel Sousuke's dark eyes boring holes into him-jealousy coming off the man in waves

()()

"Why must you continuously try my patience, Ichigo-kun?"

For the most part Sousuke's tone is gentle-they have long since left the beanstalk-er house-and are on their way to the King's castle er uh mansion and all Ichigo wants to do is enjoy the scenery around them-all he wants to do is breathe the fresh air-move forward without looking back but the man is making it rather difficult-

And Ichigo supposes in a way that he really can not blame Aizen for his anger which is barely concealed at this point-he is rather surprised that the man did not strike him down for allowing him to get into such a predicament in the first place-

Underneath the surface of calm-beneath the many layers a torrent of emotions curl-wrap around-nearly suffocate him-

He concludes that this must be Sousuke's claim-Sousuke's stamp-he does not wish to become some sort of possession to the man but does he really have a right to protest at this point?

The answer is no.

Ichigo is as stubborn as he is fiercely outspoken-a fact that both annoys and amuses Sousuke at the same time-

If he made things simple-easy-there wouldn't be that call-that unseen force pulling them back to each other-

Ichigo can not deny that he is drawn to this man-the smooth baritone which makes him feel light headed-he acknowledges that perhaps he is tinsy bit like a foolish girl after all-this man excites and frightens him in an entirely different way-it is difficult to explain-difficult to define-

()()

Burying his face in Sousuke's freshly ironed shirt-inhaling the man's unique scent-

This man is his equal-his royal match with or with out the crown or jewels

A singular silver band adorned both their fingers-so marriage was the plan then was it?

He would put on the dress-hell he'd even put on the sparkly kitten heels but the veil-no fuckin' way was he going to wear some girly piece of lace across his face.

It was stupid. Aizen already knew who he was anyway

They would dance all night or at least until the orange-haired youth could no longer feel his feet.

Wait! Really? Ichigo wasn't much of a dancer and much like with the whole sex-life thing he did not desire doing something so intimate as press his body against another man's on the dance floor.

Sousuke would have to coax him out on to the dance floor-commanding Ichigo to move with those dark hypnotic eyes-

It should be a happy event filled with friends and family members a like but such bliss was not easily found-not when he still had his other suitors to take in to account-

Yes he could picture it now-the oblong face, the long black hair, the spindly body, high above on the chandelier (it was quite a mystery how it was able to support the man's weight) crouched in a low position, gun locked and loaded-Nnoitra-the-would-be-sniper

()

Blood would splatter before Ichigo could fully register what exactly had happened-

()

His body felt frozen as the stages of denial, sadness, anger followed-the man who had captured his heart, mind and soul was ripped away from him-now dying in his arms-

()

Getting a bit dramatic here-

Not to mention twisted bastard though Nnoitra might be Ichigo doubted he was a killer

Yes yes so a much more believable scenario-

He is out on the dancer floor when who should approach but Grimmjow-not caring for rules-or etiquette-the blue-haired male simply knocks Sousuke to the side with sheer brute force and before the berry can utter WTF the cocky bastard is dragging him off to his den-erm dorm room.

()()

The King does not go so far as to demand 'Off with Grimm's head' but his command is pretty close-

With Gin and Tousen-san's assist Sousuke pulls the blue-haired male away from his Queen and the three men lock him in a cage.

Ichigo-despite understanding that it is necessary to do something in order for his King to regain control over his domain does not approve of the lock' em up and throw away the key' method.

So while the man is distracted the berry frees Grimmjow from the cage-knowing in the back of his mind that he will probably be punished but again it must be said he is not some helpless damsel-he will take what ever punishment Sousuke gives him like a man!

()()

It was one thing to be locked down in a dungeon and chained to the wall-to be denied company, sunlight, food water, the basic necessities of life but to be naked as the day he was born and spread eagle-having no way to shield him self from the millions and millions of cameras planted in every crevice and corner of the wall-not cracked or faded because the "dungeon" wasn't a dungeon at all but a recently remodeled basement and Ichigo wasn't-

()()

"Oi Ichigo what's going on down there did you faint too?"

Sounded like Hiyori was calling him-

"Hinamori?"

He didn't recognize that voice.

What was going on-why did this happen every time? It was like he would completely ignore the fact that something serious was taking place and just go into one of his daydreams/or dream-horrors depending on how each one played out?

At this rate he'd probably wind up unconsciously jumping to his own death or something.

On the plus side he hadn't released his hold on the brown-eyed girl.

()()

The following day…

As much as Ichigo wished to sleep-as much as he needed to sleep he couldn't rest yet-not until Hinamori regained consciousness.

In the back of his mind he thought it would probably make more sense if Toshiro were the one watching over the girl but the snow-haired teen was currently down stairs calling-well Ichigo couldn't be entirely sure of who Toshiro was talking to but one of them was probably Sousuke.

He cringed-despite the difficulties the man might have with his daughter-she was still his daughter and the moment he heard of her condition-well Ichigo had a feeling that things could only get ugly from here on out.

So maybe he should save himself the trouble-the drama-the heartache and just end it right here right now-he should take the phone from Toshiro and speak to Sousuke himself-apologize to the man for causing trouble and then cut ties before the not-quite-relationship could become something deeper-

It seemed like it would be the easier route to take-Aizen was too complex-and the whole thing with his children-two of which-no more than two have been stalking Ichigo for a long time now-it was messy-it was twisted-it was just plain wrong-too much baggage.

What the hell had he been thinking?

What the hell had convinced him that he actually had a future with such a man?

"Whe-Where am I?"

Ichigo was pulled from his thoughts (something that was a routine)

It seemed the brown-eyed girl had finally come to-her voice was hoarse but her eyes were as sharp as ever-pale lips curled into a snarl "YOU!"

Ichigo no longer had the energy to flinch at her tone-he remained calm, unaffected, only moving to stand up. Yes because he had to go down stairs and tell Toshiro the good news-Hinamori was awake now.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?"

The sound of hurried footsteps-Hiyori came crashing through the door-the grin on her face vanishing almost instantly as she caught sight of the brown-eyed girl glaring daggers-

An eye roll-seemed the blonde fully intended to ignore the girl on the bed and just talk to him "Just thought I'd come up here and ask you-

He cut her off already knowing what she was going to ask. He had nothing against Kensei but didn't wish to witness his little polar Olympics or whatever-hell he could barely look the silver-blond in the face-much too embarrassed about what had transpired in the Jacuzzi.

In addition there were more important things to take care of

Tell Toshiro that Hinamori was awake

Talk to Aizen, Explain what happened and then Say Goodbye

Leave the Lodge and Go Back Home

Apologize to Kenpachi and reschedule the date for another time

Soul searching. His thoughts and emotions were too conflicted-back, forth, up, down. It was too damn much he needed to escape.

Ichigo nodded content that he had decided on at least this much.

"Hiyori can you do me a favor and watch Hinamori for me? I need to tell Toshiro that she's awake now."

The blonde's nose twitched-it didn't take a genius to know that the Hiyori did not wish to do anything of the sort but too damn bad because Ichigo didn't have the patience for petty bullshit right now!

"Forget about what happened on the mountain and just watch her while I go and get Toshiro okay?"

Hiyori grumbled something under her breath but took a seat in the chair resting against the wall.

"Thanks Hiyori!"

"Yeah, yeah hurry up and go do what ever it is you gotta do-I'm not gonna baby sit psycho bitch forever."

()()

(Hinamori)

Life was unfair. She did not understand why she was continuously denied a chance at happiness over and over again. Was she really such a horrible person?

Was she really headed down the same path as her dead mother?

Oh yes Hinamori knew-Aizen-sama didn't think she knew but she knew what had driven her late mother to the edge-knew that she did not truly share the same blood with father.

Knew that her mother hadn't been capable of truly loving the man.

One might question how could a new born baby possibly know and understand such things? Hinamori couldn't explain it if she tried-it was just the way things were-the way things had always been.

She felt a great deal of anger and bitterness towards the woman-wished the bitch was trapped in a never ending ring of hell fire-round and round like a circus loop.

Sometimes Hinamori believed that the woman had injected her with an unseen poison-believed that this very poison flowed through her blood stream-believed it to be the TRUE reason behind her obsession with Aizen-sama.

The bitch had made her this way-tainted not just her blood but her entire being-

But of course the brown-eyed girl would never dream of voicing such thoughts out loud.

"I don't suppose you're ready to tell me why you were trying to kill Ichigo?"

Hmph! Like she would explain her actions to the strawberry devil's blonde minion!

Brown eyes flashed with anger Hinamori noted that no matter how much she tried she could not move-she seemed to be strapped down to the bed-no not strapped down just tucked in very tightly-to the bed in the middle of nowhere-

She studied the room-no not nowhere-somewhere-most likely their secret hideout or something-

FUCKING PEACHY!

"You should know that what ever it is you were trying to achieve by hurting Ichigo-it'll blow up in your face in the end."

The blonde had the audacity to smirk down at her.

"Something wrong Hina-chan," smirk widened "That's what they call you back home isn't it? Hina-chan has been a bad girl and bad girls deserve to be punished."

This bitch!

The moment Hinamori freed herself she was going to kill the blonde minion and then she would race down the stairs and do what she had failed to do last night.

"You've been squirming around in that bed for a good 15 minutes now, shall I tell you why?"

She glared, wishing to decapitate the blonde.

"Aww too bad," here the minion snickered "I'm going to tell you anyway." The blonde moved off the chair and made her way towards the bed-she was twirling something shiny in between her fingers-

That was when Hinamori realized it was the gun-the bitch had taken her weapon and now planned to use it on her and there was nothing she could do.

"Ichigo is a good person-can not stand to have crimson stains belonging to the innocent on his hands," hazel eyes glittered "I on the other handcould end your pathetic little life right here and now and would not feel an ounce of guilt," She paused and kneeled on the bed-causing it to dip.

Hinamori frantically searched for some way-anyway to escape this hellish nightmare-

The blonde was almost on top of her now-twirling the gun in her hand faster and faster and then pointed it at her "One shot. One shot is all it would take because I grew up around guns, had one of the world's top shooters to instruct me and I never miss."

Cold metal touched her face and Hinamori willed herself not to flinch-willed herself not to scream-hell if she'd let some snaggle tooth intimidate her-

"You can have it back if you like-do you want it back Hina-chan?"

Now the blonde was mocking her-dangling the deadly weapon in front of her a face like a master would dangle food in front of a dog.

()()()

(Ichigo)

Not that Ichigo would admit it out loud but he was relieved when Toshiro announced that he was taking Hinamori back home.

Looking at the girl-especially her hateful brown eyes was just a painful reminder of what he had almost driven her to do-he had upset Hinamori and as a result nearly gotten them both killed in process-

He'd been baffled by her actions at first-could not understand what could have angered her that she would be forced to go to such an extreme to get him out of the picture.

He thought it had been a mixture of shock and jealousy but no it went beyond that.

The girl refused to let anyone get near her father-she was extremely possessive over the man.

It didn't matter if Ichigo sat down with Hinamori and tried to explain the situation to her-tell her that that he had no intention of taking her place-

"She's a complicated girl." Toshiro explained, "But she doesn't understand that she's hurting others. Hinamori isn't a bad person she's just a bit broken."

"Broken?"

"It is not her fault but the fault of others-far too often Hinamori is left alone. Her mother died before she even got to know the woman and Aizen is always gone for one reason or another. The ones who are supposed to be Hinamori's siblings are off living their own lives.

Even on the rare occasion such as the holidays when they come home for a visit not one of them acknowledges that she is there. And so Hinamori is left feeling like she doesn't matter-even the trees that rustle in the wind get more attention than she does.

They sent Hinamori away to school so she would receive the very best education from the some of the world's top instructors but there too she is cast out by her peers- a pause "It is much more complex than you can even begin to imagine, Kurosaki."

"I'd be glad to be Hinamori's friend."

Icicle blues widened for a moment before sliding close "It is not your problem, just leave well enough alone, back out while you can Kurosaki."

"Toshiro I-

"Hitsugaya will do, I am not your friend nor your family member, Kurosaki. Unintentionally you have added to Hinamori's distress and even though you seem like a decent person I will not turn my back on her by consorting with you."

"Consort-?"

"Take a number snowflake face-the berry has many admirers aiming for his heart-you're going to have to do better than that if you expect him to take notice."

Ichigo bit a growl-now was not the time for Hiyori's smart ass comments.

"Anyway I just thought I'd let you two know that Hina-chan has left the building."

"WHAT?"

The snow-haired boy glared at Ichigo as if to say 'stop copying' me which was ridiculous because he wasn't copying anyone. It was a perfectly natural reaction.

"Hiyori what do you mean she's left?"

"I mean I had to go and empty my bladder but I wasn't even gone for five minutes-

Toshiro flew out of the chair he had been occupying and raced up the stairs.

Ichigo was torn between lecturing the blonde and chasing after Toshiro.

"I doubt she went far-probably just out to get some fresh air or something."

()()

(Hinamori)

FLASHBACK

A few minutes prior…

The blonde minion was even dumber than Hinamori had originally thought-shortly after the bitch went to the bathroom-the brown-eyed girl rocked the bed back and forth, back and forth-it didn't feel like a sturdy mattress-probably wouldn't take much

()()

She ignored the pain as her body hit the floor and quickly scrambled to her feet. Not bothering to flip the mattress right side up again-

()()

Now that the gun was pretty much useless to her without bullets-it was time to move on to option 2-surely somewhere in this damn lodge there had to be a kitchen.

()

The employees at the lodge clearly weren't all that bright either. So it didn't take much to slip through the doors, which read 'staff members only' –the smell of breakfast sausages and biscuits was in the air which meant the kitchen couldn't be far.

()()

(Kenpachi)

Kenpachi knew something was different. Even as a teenager he never sweat as much as he was sweating right now. He felt restless-completely out of character.

Hell he hadn't even felt this way when he first proposed to his ex wife all those years ago.

And then it dawned on him-it wasn't just restlessness he was nervous-nervous about seeing Ichigo again?

No not nervous about seeing Ichigo but about how the berry would react.

The last thing Kenpachi ever wanted to do was crowd Ichigo-become some sort of annoyance-clingy-

Wait! Clingy?

Now he was just being overdramatic-

Shit he needed a drink.

Yumichika and Ikkaku were on their way, rather than giving him the coordinates to Ichigo's current location, the duo decided to come along for the ride.

Ikkaku wanted to see the berry who quote 'turned his former captain soft.'

Yumchika had a different reason for wanting to see Ichigo-the effeminate male wished to discuss floral arrangements for Yachiru's wedding-never mind that A) it was still several months away if Kenpachi gave his blessing that is and B) there was no guarantee that Ichigo would even agree to be his date.

Hell they hadn't even had an official first date yet.

()()

What the hell is this?" Kenpachi grunted in distaste as Yumichika presented a bottle of wine cooler to him.

Wine fucking cooler!

"I'm sorry Cap- at his glare the younger man corrected himself, "Kenpachi but I refuse to let you present yourself to the love of your life as a sloppy drunk."

If Kenpachi were the type of man to pout he would have done so just then-

All he wanted was some damn booze to take the edge off!

Was that really so much to ask?

Luckily somewhere up in heaven the angels decided to answer the man's wishes-in the form of Ikkaku to be exact-

Ignoring the deep frown of disapproval from his lover, the bald headed man held up an ice cooler with a grin "I figure you can drink some now and drink some later-its light beer so at the most you'll just be extra friendly when you see Ichigo."

Kenpachi slapped both of his friends on the backs. "That's more like it-alright let's head out!"

()()

(Rukia)

Rukia wiped the small tears from the corner of her silver blue eyes as she watched the wild haired man and his two companions drive off.

In the end she really liked Kenpachi-san almost as much as she liked Aizen-san.

This was a good thing, she decided, because if one man broke Ichigo's heart, the other would be there to pick up the pieces.

()()

(Ichigo)

He wasn't even aware of how big the lodge was until Hiyori dragged him to brunch. Toshiro dragging a reluctant Hinamori along at a much slower pace-the snow haired boy wanted to make sure the girl ate something to regain some of her energy and Ichigo had no objections with this.

Why should he?

After all Hinamori's behavior wasn't her fault.

()()

Ichigo never liked it when people made a big deal about holidays he didn't enjoy being showered with gifts especially when he didn't have any gifts to present in return.

"I can't accept all of this."

"Sure you can Ichigo. Just say thank you and smile for the camera."

"Camera?"

"Over here berry-tan!"

He hadn't even noticed when Mashiro and Kensei showed up. The woman with apple green hair was dressed in green and white snowsuit and wearing a Santa hat on her head and Kensei-was the man trying to tempt him?

Honestly why would he come to brunch without a shirt?

Ichigo swallowed hard noting how small droplets of water dripped off the man's silver-blond hair, neck and chest-

He averted his gaze not wishing to come off as an even bigger pervert then Kensei already thought he probably was.

He addressed Mashiro instead as he asked, "So did they win?"

The woman's voice was playful as she answered "Why don't you ask Kensei, he'll tell you allllll about it berry-tan."

"I heard him the first time Mashiro and in answer to your question Ichigo-I never lose."

"Oh uh well that's cool I mean-

"Why weren't you there?"

"Uh well I-

"Never mind, hurry up and open your presents I hate eating luke warm pancakes."

"That's no way to treat berry-tan Kensei-he's our guest of honor."

"That's right! Thanks to Ichigo's little show last night we're all guaranteed a trip to Europe this summer." Risa's aquamarine eyes twinkled behind her pink frames.

Ichigo fought down the blush and mentally cursed.

'Damn I was hoping Hiyori was lying about that.'

"You'll be there too won't you Ichigo? Europe is said to have some of the best nightclubs."

Ichigo hadn't even noticed Love until the man made his appearance known-Love was (as always) reading his manga and squeezing what looked like an unhealthy amount of honey into his oatmeal.

He felt the familiar pressure of someone putting an arm around him-didn't have to guess it was Shinji-the older blonds' blinding bright smile was always the first thing to notice. "Yes hot clubs and even hotter babes, you'll never want to leave Ichigo."

A Santa hat was placed on top of Ichigo's head and then Shinji was poking his cheek "Smile!"

When the orange haired youth only scowled Shinji kissed him

"What the hell Hirako?"

"Relax berry face, it was just a kiss on the cheek," Hiyori snorted in between mouthfuls of her raisin toast "The French do it all the time."

"Come on berry-tan just smile and we'll leave you alone."

"Yeah come on Ichigo, the camera loves you."

"Smile."

"Smile for the camera Ichi."

Ichigo sighed asking himself 'why me?' yet again. He looked to Kensei for help hoping the guy would help him out like before.

The silver-blond yanked the camera out from Mashiro's hand but rather than telling the group to 'knock it off' like before he-

"Let's all smile for the camera and get one of the staff members to snap the photo."

Well that actually didn't sound like such a bad idea.

"Fine."

"That's the spirit, okay now should it be age before beauty or beauty before age?"

()()

(Hinamori)

She couldn't really explain what suddenly had come over her-she still didn't like the strawberry but she no longer felt the extreme desire to maim or kill him-lowering the knife which she had previously intended on using Hinamori kicked her jealousy and anger to the side for the moment and just squeezed Shiro-chan as though he were an adorable puppy she never had and smiled for the camera

()

Not realizing that the flash of silver (brief as it had been) had not gone unnoticed by Shinji.

Seemed his sis was right they'd have to watch the brown-eyed girl carefully.

()()

(Ichigo)

A short while later…

Ichigo finally had some free time to himself he felt it was a good a time as any to really sort through and collect his thoughts-put them in some kind of order.

Starting with why the hell he had hung up on Sousuke after explaining the whole Hinamori situation…

FLASHBACK

The mans voice carried no trace of anger-on the contrary Aizen seemed happy to hear from him-expressed how he was looking forward to picking up right where they left off-

"You will join me for Christmas Eve, won't you Ichigo-kun?"

"Well-

"What would you like for Christmas?"

Ichigo felt his heart do that stupid pitter-patter thing that should only exist in shojo manga or chick flicks-his voice cracked as he replied, "I don't deserve anything-not after what happened."

"Unless I misheard you earlier, Hinamori was the one with the gun not you, correct?"

"Yeah but I-

"Do not shed tears over something you had no control over, Ichigo-kun."

"I'm not shedding tears!" Ichigo trailed off-hating that he had very little control over his emotions lately "I just-Ai-Soi-I this won't work-I'm not-we're not-not that I don't want to try but-I mean-

"Breathe Ichigo-kun, there is no need to rush."

"I-whose rushing? I'm just-

"You need to stop blaming yourself when it was clearly Hinamori's fault."

"But it's my fau-

"No it is not."

Ichigo clenched and unclenched his fists-wishing to punch something-the wall seemed like a good place to start-

"What was that?"

Barely registering the trickle of blood now dripping down his knuckles, Ichigo forced himself to stop sounding so pathetic. "Its nothing. I just think the walls in this damn lodge are ugly and cheap."

"You don't have to pretend for me. If I were there with you right now I would hold you in my arms and-

Ichigo couldn't listen to this-couldn't bare to hear Sousuke's sweet words-he didn't deserve to hear them not after-

"You should hate me. You should be threatening to sue me or lock me up or something. I almost ki-your daughter could have died last night-surely you must be angry-disappointed-stressed-something!"

"Hinamori Is stronger than her appearance might lead you to believe."

"That doesn't change anything. I-I upset her and I-I can't be with you if your daughter hates me."

"Can't or won't?"

"You-you know what I mean-what the hell can I offer you anyway besides my ass I mean and even that's probably gonna lose its appeal after awhile."

"This is not possible-even when I am old and wrinky I could never tire of your lovely posterior, Ichigo-kun."

Ichigo felt blood rush to his face "D-Don't say-why the hell do you have to-Stop I'm trying to be serious here and y-

"So am I."

Ichigo groaned. "We can't be together. It doesn't-its doesn't make any sense. I'm 19, a 19 year old college kid who still sleeps with plushies for fuck sakes!"

"Plushies? How unexpected."

"Shut up! I didn't mean to sa-arrgg (he could hear the man chuckling on the other end and despite himself his cheeks became even warmer "Sousuke please don't make this any harder-

"Mmm hard yes I am reaching that point."

What? What? What?

Aizen had to be joking there was no way he could be-

"I can almost feel it now-your sweet sinful little mouth wrapped around my hardened flesh-you should be proud of yourself-with the exception of our afternoon together there has never been another p-

"STOP!"

Why did Sousuke's voice have to be so damn-?

"Are you getting excited as well? Should we come together, Ichigo-kun?"

More than ever Ichigo wished to do just that-it would be all too easy slip his hands into the waistband of his briefs-get lost in the erotic sounds of the man's breathing-the man's deep hypnotic voice, his entire body was heated up just by the suggestion alone.

BUT NO!

He could not let it happen! Refused to let it happen. He could not let this man bring him to that great white paradise for a third time when he knew that he had to call it off right here-right now.

He wasn't good for Sousuke. Didn't deserve Sousuke. Never should have contacted the man again-never should have

A deep chuckle

"Don't black out on me now me-we haven't even begun."

Quite against his will-as if under command (and considering what he had experienced before it might not too far off of a guess) Ichigo's fingers moved underneath his thin t-shirt and tweaked one of his nipples-using his other hand to muffle a moan as the sensitive nub hardened almost instantly

That's it King, forget all about ya troubles and let Sousuke-sama take care of ya!

His 'hollow' brought Ichigo back to his senses-he pulled his hand out and glared at it as though it were the cause for all his troubles-

"Don't stop I wish to hear your sweet sounds-remember that heat-focus on-

NO! NO ABSOLUTELY NOT!

"I can't-this isn't right."

Damn it why couldn't the man understand?

He could hear sighing on the other end. "What's wrong Ichigo-kun? You were doing so well the last time we-

"This isn't like last time-please just (fuck why was his voice breaking-damn it all to hell)- "Sousuke you have to forget about me-I'll bring nothing but drama in your life-please just-

"What is life with out a little drama?"

Bastard. Enough with the damn-

"Why are you-you don't even know me!"

"But I feel like I do-don't you understand Ichigo-kun?"

"Understand what? What exactly am I supposed to understand?"

"You are the missing half."

Orange brows furrowed. The missing half of what? Why on top of everything else was the bastard speaking in riddles?

He had to hang up. NOW!

"What the fuck are you talking about? What missing half? I'm nothing-no one-why are you wasting your time and energy on someone like me when you can just as easily find-

"This is true but I don't want just anyone. I want you and only you."

Ichigo was long passed the point of being nervous-of feeling uneasy-flushed-practically breathless-well past the point of feeling like he would black out-collapse-

He sat down on the bed-hoping to stop the spinning-the burning-the-

He had to think fast. DO something. Say something. Get Sousuke pissed-so pissed that he'd finally hang up-get the man to forget all about him-he had to-

"You asked me before if I was seeing anyone else remember?"

Yes this was the direction to take-it was the only way to-

"Yes I remember."

He couldn't be absolutely positive with out seeing Aizen's face but he could almost detect a trace of irritation in the man's tone-good run with that-this is the way to-

"Well I slept with him. Several times and I think I might-

Could he really bring himself to lie-this wasn't just a little white lie but a full-blown lie-

'Don't do it King!'

'Shut up Shirosaki! This is the only way!'

"Yes Ichigo-kun?"

The man's tone was even-no trace of annoyance or jealousy-no sense of betrayal detected-

"Uh well he asked me to move in with him and I agreed so there you're just wasting your time with me because I-I already have some one and uh he never lets me wash the bed sheets because he-

'Shut up ya damn idiot ya are so gonna ruin everythin'-

'I DON'T CARE!'

He was lying of course-he did care-the more and more lies spilled from his lips the more disgusted with himself Ichigo became-

"Anyway Sousuke I did have fun and I'm sorry that I lead you on for so long but eh what can I say you were a nice distraction."

He forced himself to laugh as though he really were some slutty tease who didn't give a shit about fucking around with another's emotions-

"You were rather dare I say cute in your bathrobe that day-I thought about keeping it after you let me wear it but my lover gets extremely jealous and let's just say billionaire or not-your money won't save you from his wrath."

"Is that all?"

Er? What? That wasn't the reaction he was expecting from Sousuke. Ichigo forced himself to continue on with his little act-

"Well I mean if its phone sex you're looking for Sousuke I suppose we can work something out-I can pencil you in for 5:00pm next Sunday-he'll be out drinking with his buddies."

"Sunday you say?"

Why hell was Sousuke still talking to him?

"Yeah Sunday."

"Are you hanging up now Ichigo-kun?"

"Well I could unless you wanna chat a bit more-tell me what you're wearing or something."

"You wish to know what I'm wearing at the moment?"

Ichigo felt his little role as the nonchalant prick cracking-why couldn't the man just hang the hell up already-

"Yeah, it'll make for good jacking off material-my lover doesn't get home til late so-

"I see but before I answer your question am I allowed to ask one of my own?"

This was it! Finally Aizen was going to demand to know why he had tricked him-why he had manipulated him-why he had wasted his time-Ichigo readied himself for the backlash-

"Go ahead, got nothing to hide."

"Next time you decide to role play you should really tell me in advance. I have some fun little costumes that I'd love to see on you-it will add to the overall affect."

Errr what the fuck? Was the man purring now? What the hell-?

"You-!"

A chuckle "I have lived for many years Ichigo-kun and I have seen and heard it all-You could have just announced that you slept with my entire staff and it would not change how much I want you."

"You still want me?"

Why was he asking this question? Why did his voice sound so damn hopeful?

FUCK WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?

I was this close-this fucking close-how could he have-he couldn't possibly.

"I do."

"But why?"

"I have already answered this question. If you wish to know more you will bring your self to the mansion on Christmas Eve."

"What the hell? I just told you that I-I'm taken-I'm with someone else."

"Indeed you did just tell me that but we both know that you were also lying. As to the reason of why you were lying well that I am not quite sure of yet-however it matters not. Nothing has changed I desire to have you and I will have you."

Sousuke couldn't be serious-he couldn't be-even after all-

"You don't know what you're talking about."

"I most certainly do know what I am talking about, Ichigo-kun."

Enough! This ends now.

Ichigo felt like ripping his hair out. What was this man trying to do to him? Couldn't he just hang up already-let it go?

"And if you are still having doubts then I will put those doubts to rest."

Gnawing on his bottom lip Ichigo did his best to forever engrave Aizen's smooth and sexy baritone in his mind

It wasn't fair. Sousuke was making this incredibly difficult-damn near impossible-

His first few attempts had failed-but this time-this time he would-

"I don't love you."

Dear God why did that one word have to hurt so damn much?

"I'll never love you-hell I don't even like you so please just leave me alone Aizen!"

He couldn't wait around to hear the man's response-Ichigo hurled the phone all the way on the other side of the room-which wasn't all that far but it would have to do.

It was too much. The man had been asking too much of him. Way too much…he couldn't-he had only just begun to experience feelings outside of friendship-he couldn't-he wouldn't-

Now more than ever he wished to run-to flee-to go to a place where Aizen Sousuke didn't exist-now more than ever he wished to-

()()

FLASH END

There was a knock on the door pulling the orange haired youth back to the present moment

"Yo berry-face Kenpachi's waiting for you in the main lodge-so stop doing what ever it is your doing in there and come on out."

Kenpachi was here?

FUCK! He didn't know if he had the energy to see the wild-haired man right now.

"Oi Ichigo did you hear me?"

Ichigo slapped his cheeks.

Get it together dumb ass-you owe Kenpachi remember?

"Yeah alright I'll be there soon, Hiyori."

()()

(Aizen)

Masaki hadn't exactly given him the blessing he had been hoping for-instead the woman had issued a trial run of sorts by way of inviting him to her house for dinner with close family and friends.

The rules were quite simple: He had to capture Ichigo-kun's attention without laying a single finger on him. If he passed then they would move on to the next stage-

Isshin had issued the next challenge: If Aizen could out drink the boy's aunt Kukaku without getting sick he would be issued an 'exclusive' pass to a private office party-

Which didn't hold all that much appeal to Sousuke until the bearded man added

'You'll get a chance to see my son in a costume.'

Costume.

Aizen would not soon forget the Greek goddess costume in the magazine-nor would he forget the adorable rabbit costume when Ichigo-kun and his friends trespassed on his property.

Both costumes had show-cased the youth's beauty in two entirely different ways.

So to see Ichigo-kun in another costume-as if he could let such an opportunity pass him by-

Considering it was the holiday season he imagined the boy would probably be dressed as an elf or an angel-a bit cliché but entertaining all the same.

Rudely ripped from his thoughts of boy when there came loud pounding at the door of his private bedroom-

Before Aizen had the chance to even ask what was going on or who dared to disrupt him the doors were ripped off their hinges-

The police had come to place him under arrest and bring him in for questioning down at the station –

()()

They had reason to believe that he had physically assaulted poor sweet Hinamori-kun and as a result the girl now had large red welts on both of her forearms

()()

A quiet evening at home between father and daughter-so the girl's story went-they were sitting in front of the cozy little fire place in the upstairs library-sweet, innocent, adorable Hinamori-kun was resting her head in his lap-enjoying the serene moment.

Eyes bright, the girl lifted her head off the man's lap and asked "Do you love me father?"

He went ballistic at these words-this perfectly normal question set off something-triggered the darkness that lie just beneath his carefully structured surface-

He took hold of Hinamori-shook her violently, ignored her whines of protest and pinned the helpless, frightened, confused girl beneath him-squeezing her wrists so hard-rendering her unable to move.

That right there should have been the first tip off that something was screwy-something did not add up-they said she had welts on both of her forearms but then the next minute they claimed that he bruised her wrists.

Hinamori had fabricated quite the story and the second time she told it-it became even more preposterous!

()()

She came to him in the middle of the night-entering his bed chambers just as she had always done-simply wanting to wish her father sweet dreams-he back handed her across the face-called her a wretch-a fool-deemed her unworthy of being in his presence

'Pack your things-you are no longer welcome here.'

Eyes wide, holding her stinging cheek 'But why father? I thought you loved me.'

'Love?' His tone was bitter-mocking 'Who could love something like you'

Not letting her get another word out the man reached for her-pulled the girl by the hair (which had magically grown over night) out the door and down the stairs-her tiny, frail body met the hard stone steps-

Right unless a little demon snuck in the mansion in the middle of the night it was highly unlikely-all of the floors in the mansion were heavily carpeted-

Error number 2!

()()

She was kicking and screaming-crying out for help-slipping in and out of consciousness because she had several bumps on her head by now-he opened the door and who should he find but the mysterious college boy smirking at the pair of them-

This said boy had a mean look in his eyes-the very same college boy who had seduced and brainwashed him was responsible for the Aizen's sudden abuse towards his beautiful, kind, caring daughter, this boy-a devil in disguise was ripping their family apart-

Really now this one didn't even make sense-as if he a master of illusion and mind manipulation could be tricked by an amateur-

()()

Her story continued to change-alter

Suddenly it was…

Dearest Uncle Kisuke showed up in the nick of time-right before Aizen-sama threw poor Hinamori-kun off the balcony-

The next time around it was both Yoruichi and Kisuke dropping by with Hinamori's late birthday gifts when they heard a commotion coming from the upstairs-a scream-a blood curdling scream-Hina-chan!

He had pulled the girl's sleeve back and placed a hot iron against her bare flesh-grinning manically as she screamed-and through it all the devil incarnate laughed-watching on and while all of this was taking place classical music echoed from the load speakers

()()

Aizen had received the call when the police authorities left the room in order to go on their coffee or donut break or pick their nose or do what ever idiots who tended to abuse their power chose to do during their free time.

Ichigo-kun was very upset-apologizing profusely-announcing that he would call their "not-quite-relationship" off right then and there-

Sousuke saw red!

Hinamori had always been destined to head down the path of sheer insanity but this was beyond insanity.

He was left with no other option-not only had the girl fabricated stories-made up lies about him-attempted to damage his good name/character but she had also attempted to kill his future bride-made the boy second doubt himself-

Something would have to be done. He could not let the foolish child slide this time-would not let her continue to walk away scot-free

Just as soon as he was released from this damn station-that is

()()

(Ichigo)

It was kind of weird to see Kenpachi again.

And not that Ichigo would voice his next thought out loud but he was kind of glad that Yumichika and Ikkaku apparently decided to tag along because as of right now Ichigo wasn't so sure he wanted to be alone with Kenpachi.

Not that he wasn't still attracted to the man but there was something different about the wild haired man today-Ichigo couldn't quite put his finger on what that was.

()()

(Kenpachi)

Something was off-way off. Kenpachi didn't like it one bit. "Ikkaku, Yumichika clear off for awhile I want to talk to Ichigo alone," His tone was gruff even more so then it was naturally.

His companions didn't budge an inch-on top of which Yumichika was now looking at him weird

'Why the hell is he looking at me like that?'

Kenpachi's previously good mood was fast disappearing "Get lost I said I want to talk to Ichigo."

The effeminate man jumped and after a few minutes let Ikkaku escort him away.

Still giving their former captain a strange look before disappearing around the corner.

Kenpachi felt confused and it was starting to piss him off.

He turned his attention back to Ichigo. And it finally dawned on him the berry was right here but his mind seemed to be elsewhere.

"Ichigo!"

When Kenpachi didn't receive an immediate answer he grabbed the orange-haired youth and dragged him up the stairs-hell if he come all this way just to be ignored.

()()

Away from prying eyes Kenpachi grabbed Ichigo's chin, forcing him to look up-he didn't like the dark shadow that seemed to be clouding normally bright brown eyes.

He decided to wipe away such a dead look away and mindful of the youth's injuries (minor scrapes and bruises) Kenpachi attacked Ichigo's mouth.

Ichigo hadn't even given him a proper greeting and Kenpachi refused to let it slide. He wanted Ichigo to be his Ichigo-the one who moaned for him-the one who curled and wound his delicate but strong body around him-wanted to feel Ichigo fisting and pulling his thick black hair-wanted to hear the youth inhale sharply and breathe out softly-the Ichigo who acted like he was alive and loved it!

"Kenpachi stop!"

Well that was a little better but still not enough.

Kenpachi used the youth's protest to attack his mouth even more-using his larger body to shove the youth up against the door frame-not releasing his hold on Ichigo for even a minute.

His berry was wearing way too much damn clothes for Kenpachi's liking right now.

()

Pressing his body closer Kenpachi reached around to grab his favorite part about the youth-Ichigo's perfect ass-squeezing the delicious globes with his large meaty hands-giving the berry no other choice but to wrap his legs around his waist-

Developed a grinding motion-slow grind which was the polar opposite of Kenpachi's tongue which was now lashing at Ichigo's mouth like a whip-adding a few love bites in for good measure-

But the orange haired youth wasn't giving as good as he was getting.

Ichigo wasn't nearly responsive enough-Kenpachi wouldn't go so far as to say his berry was like a limp doll but pretty close to it-

He finally released the hold he had on Ichigo's mouth in order to question the unusual behavior "What the hell is wrong with you Ichigo? This isn't like you."

()()

(Ichigo)

Ichigo shut his eyes to Kenpachi's accusations. Guilt crept up in him like a rotten apple-he waited a few minutes before meeting the man's gaze again "Sorry I just have a lot on my mind."

Kenpachi frowned and gave his ass an extra hard squeeze-not bothering to conceal the heated lust in both his gray-green eyes and in that crazy grin "The only thing you should be thinking about is this-us-you might think I'm an asshole for manhandling you like this but I'm not going to apologize Ichigo."

He wasn't looking for an apology. He wasn't looking for-

"Kenpachi I-

"I know you want this Ichigo-I know you want me-If I stuck my hand down your pants right now and squeezed you'd come for me wouldn't you?"

Yes he probably would come-come hard-come fast-in rapid gushes over and over-even if his mind wasn't in it-even if his soul wasn't in it-even if his whole heart wasn't in it-his body would not deny that Kenpachi was still one hell of a sexy ass beast-

But it wouldn't be fair-he couldn't betray the second man he cared about-certainly not in the same day. Could not lead Kenpachi on when a part of his soul was-

()()

(Kenpachi)

Why was Ichigo still looking at him in that way?

Why the hell was his berry looking at him with such eyes?

Such a pained expression did not belong on the orange haired youth's face. Kenpachi wanted to wipe that expression off Ichigo's face once and for all!

And so without further warning he made good on his promise, un snapped the button on the youth's pants, pulled the fly down and grinned at the all too noticeable wet spot on Ichigo's canary yellow briefs. He pressed against semi-erect flesh with the pad of his thumb.

"Don't Kenpachi!"

"You keep saying that Ichigo," If the man could push the berry even further into the door frame the youth would probably get permanently stuck that way-as it was he just wound up scraping up Ichigo's backside-if the way the kid was now snarling and hissing was anything to go by. But Kenpachi wasn't going to stop "You're already wet for me."

Ichigo turned his face to the side-face a delicious shade of red-it was both cute and annoying to see his berry acting so shy and unsure of himself.

Even before when Ichigo wasn't familiar with fondling and petting, the kid was very vocal-

But as of right now-

"Ichigo stop acting like a frigid bitch and-

"I'm not a bitch!"

A grunt "What's your excuse then?"

"I told you I had a lot on my mind. Stop taking things so personally!"

Another grunt and Kenpachi slipped his hand inside the briefs, loving the way the half hard flesh practically jumped at him- "Your dicks got the right idea now all ya gotta do is get your brain to join in, Ichigo." With these words he started grinding his body against the youth again. "I know you had a rough couple of days but you owe me."

Normally Kenpachi wouldn't resort to laying the guilt trip on others but he was beyond irritated at this point- "Speak Ichigo! You had a nice little dinner you were planning for me remember? And then for dessert you were gonna walk around wearing nothing but my apron and then let me fuck you on the sofa-the same sofa you've fallen asleep on so many times- he let his hand do the rest of the talking for him-sliding it up and down bringing the youths' shaft to-

A snort. "You're already doing whatever you want any way-might as well just finish it."

Kenpachi glared. It was one thing if Ichigo was being cheeky-it was quite another that his berry sounded so damn-

He squeezed the warm flesh in his hand-squeezed it hard enough to bruise and demanded yet again "What the hell is wrong with you?"

Eyes hard-angry-no well past the point of being angry the berry snarled out "Nothin' you're hear I'm here, ya wanna fuck me so hurry the fuck up and fuck me then!"

Rather than finding this to be a turn on-Kenpachi was turned off. He pulled his hand off and released his hold completely-letting the youth fall back on his feet-

Then he backed up giving Ichigo some space-waiting for the orange haired youth to hurry up and explain what the hell was wrong or-

Shit! Kenpachi cursed inwardly and ran a hand through unruly black spikes before moving towards the bed to sit down.

He looked back at his berry surprised that the kid hadn't moved from his spot-he let out a sigh and told himself that maybe he had one beer too many.

Maybe the scent of alcohol was upsetting Ichigo?

But as he caught another glimpse of harsh angry golden orbs-not brilliant brown he wondered if-

"Ichigo?"

A grin-a grin made its way on to the youth's face-but it seemed out of place-didn't reach his eyes- "Not quite but hey who the hell cares 'bout details like that-my ass is still ripe for pickin' so how bout it Pachi-?"

()()

(Ichigo)

'Shirosaki what the hell are you doing?"

'What's it look like-I'm helpin' ya ass out once again, King.'

'How the hell is this helping? Kenpachi'll think I've gone mad!'

A snicker. 'It's better for everyone this way King-ya don't want Pachi-not as much as ya wanted Aizen-If ya did I wouldn't been able to take over in the first place.'

'But you did that afternoon-

'This is different Ichi and ya know it. Back then I was messin' round-teasin ya-now I'm tryin' to get ya to back out before ya hurt Pachi and ya self.'

'But I-since when-why do you even?'

A snort 'I'm you dumbass-the sexier, more confident more badass you but still you Ichi-sides jus' cuz ya think its over with Sousuke don't mean it is-guys like him never give up somethin' as ripe as ya pretty ass King.'

'But I-I don't-I mean-shit I-

'Must ya always go in circles-yeah the beast is still sexy as fuck-yeah a part of ya still desires to let him fuck ya straight into next year-but an even bigger part of ya dreams of that white weddin' with Sousuke-

'Without the veil and white doves.'

'Course only rainbow striped pumps and peacocks will do for ya King.'

'Can we make it owls instead?'

'If it ever gets to that point, then ya.'

'What do you mean if-you just said'

'Tick-tock don't keep Pachi waitin' Ichi.'

'What should I-? I mean I owe him somethin'

Yeah ya do-too bad I'm not a genie and can't give ya back ya virginity once its gone-

'So what should I do?'

'Well…'

()()()

(Aizen)

Of course the police had apologized for arresting him on false charges-of course they had offered to kiss his ass (quite literally) when they realized that the girl, sweet Hina-chan had been crying wolf-of course they knew they were in deep shit and he could (if he desired to do so) make their lives a living hell-but Aizen didn't have the energy, nor time nor patience to deal with small fry-he'd let his lawyers handle it and leave it at that

()()

It was late in the evening when he returned once more-a bit surprised to find Gin and Kaname having sex right out on the front porch. Neither man seemed to care as snow fell-so caught up in their activities as they were-

The duo hadn't seemed to notice his presence or if they had they simply hadn't bothered to stop what they were doing in order to turn around and welcome him back home.

For a moment Sousuke considered acting like a school boy-pelting the couple with medium sized snow balls-snatching up the men's clothing-locking the duo out of the mansion. He considered teasing Gin especially about his snow-white ass but opted against it.

After all he wasn't a young schoolboy and he had a reputation to up hold and there was a code to follow so he left Gin and Kaname alone and continued on inside-removing his tie and shoes as he planned out his next course of action.

()()

Yes it seems as though the days and nights in this particular tale are endless and so my dearest audience we flash forward and finally it is…

1 day before Christmas Eve…

There was no time to be a Grinch when he was being surrounded by Gin and his uber holiday-ism-despite not being in the best of moods Aizen could not quite keep his frown firmly in place when the silver-haired man insisted on dressing in red and green from head to toe looking positively beyond ridiculous with his striped top hat, jacket and cane singing along with the old fashioned record player while he danced up the grand staircase winding it with garland and mistletoe.

The silver-fox paused briefly to peak his head in the doorway of the office and call out "G'mornin' Aizen-sama!"

Allowing a smirk to stretch across his lips Aizen set aside the mini mountain of paperwork and returned the greeting "Good morning Gin. Come to finish decorating my office have you?"

"Jus' a lil bit-I'm thinkin' it could use a little more red doncha agree?"

"Hmm do what you must, I will take both my morning tea and my papers to the library."

Ruby reds twinkling Gin set aside his not-so-little box of Holiday Décor and moved over to the window-pulling back the drapes – "Jus' outta curiosity have yer looked out yer bedroom window this mornin' Aizen-sama?"

Aizen raised a brow-half curious/half wary of why Gin was asking him such a question "Is there a reason I should?"

Truthfully he had no real desire to look out the window which held a perfect view of the garden-it reminded him too much of the boy who had not-so-quietly slipped away from his grasp-

Like an excited kid on Christmas day-baring the fact that it wasn't quite the 25th-hell wasn't even the 24th yet Gin grabbed a hold of his sleeve and half dragged/half carried Aizen out of the room, down the hall-bringing to mind an elf as he skipped towards the master bedroom-

The fox knew that he did not fancy having anyone invading his private sanctuary and so Aizen narrowed dark brown eyes at the younger male- "Gin what did you do?"

Grinning in his typical fashion-the silver-haired man just ignored Aizen's dark glare and pushed the door open-

()()

"What exactly is it I am supposed to be looking for?"

"Well look out the window and you will find yer answer."

Not just inside of the mansion but outside of the mansion as well Gin went out of his way every year to make the decorations and the over all atmosphere even more spectacular than the one during the previous year-

Not wishing to waste another moment Sousuke pulled back the drapes and was both surprised and secretly amused to find 8 reindeer baring his children's names on their collars.

"Figured even if the kiddies don't show up for the winter hols' might as well find the next best thing." A wide grin "Plus they won't talk back to ya."

"This is your gift to me then?"

Gin shook his head "Not even close, yer gift will arrive tomorrow night Aizen-sama."

With these not quite cryptic words the silver fox turned on his heel and made his way back down the grand staircase calling out "I hope yer don't mind if I spruce up the old grand father clock sitting in the foyer."

()()

(Ichigo)

Christmas EVE

"Now remember when you serve drinks you must smile."

Who the fuck was goat face kidding? The man's smile was wide enough to light up half the damn world.

"You should just be grateful that I care about you enough to dress up again instead of locking myself in my dorm room like the average 19 year old."

"Now, now Ichigo is that any way to thank your care provider. Daddy goes through all this trouble to ensure that your costume fits this year and the least you can do-

Ichigo rolled his eyes and tugged at said costume-he hadn't even had it on for 15 minutes and already he wished to burn it in the nearest fireplace-the way the stupid fabric kept bunching made him look like he went out of his way to pad his ass. The orange haired male was experiencing the wedgie of the century-not that his idiot old man gave a damn.

"And don't forget your ears and nose-after all that trouble Rukia-chan went through to track down such rare items."

Another eye roll. There was nothing rare about a headband designed to look like antlers or red bulb with little sticky tabs on the back of it. His raven-haired friend was just trying to get back at him for ruining 'her holiday' right her holiday-like he'd done it on purpose.

()()

One good thing came out such a stupid party though-he didn't have to suffer through it alone-rather Chado, Ishida, Rukia, Inoue and Renji had tagged along.

()()

Serving drinks wasn't all that complicated especially since it wasn't like he had to pour the drinks and memorize what went into each one.

All Ichigo had to do was walk around and pretend like half the damn room wasn't staring at his ass all night long.

Damn goat face and his perverted business associates! Weren't they supposed to be happily married? Retired? Asexual? Apparently not!

On top of which the way the costume was designed it literally looked like Ichigo's ass was shaking when the phone in his pocket vibrated.

Ignoring the not so discreet drunken leers, lust-crazed bedroom eyes and grabby grabby hands, the orange haired youth handed the half empty tray of drinks to Renji's pink haired lover (Grantz hadn't been invited but hell if Ichigo was going to kick Renji's lover out of the party, he'd never hear the end of it) and stepped outside in order to take the call.

()()

Although Ichigo couldn't understand why anyone would call him-he was meeting up with the rest of his friends later that night at the Kuchiki mansion.

Ichigo pressed the phone to his ear and waited for the voice on the other end.

"You're not even gonna come over and let me molest you under the mistletoe, Ichigo?"

Of all the people Ichigo had expected to call-Kenpachi was not one of them. Ever since that afternoon at the lodge he hadn't seen or heard from the man. So why now?

"Uh Merry Christmas Kenpachi."

"Merry Christmas my ass! Why the hell are you avoiding me Ichigo? Just because YOU decided to get all nice and cozy with your pretty boy loan shark doesn't mean you can't come around and let me ogle your ass once in awhile."

Ichigo rolled his eyes. Somethings never change. He wasn't even going to bother correcting the man-it was better this way-let Kenpachi think he was with another although why the man thought a loan shark of all people the berry would never know.

Really though-the man was being a bit ridiculous-acting as though an entire year had passed and not just a handful of days.

Kenpachi's voice was serious now as he added, "Pretty bastard better be taking care of Ichigo or else I'll shove my size eleven boot right through his fancy door and up his equally fancy ass!"

Ichigo flinched "Listen Kenpachi I'm sorry fo-

"Save it! Just bring your ass over here and let me give you your present-no one else is gonna accept leather pumps as a gift without looking at me like I'm some kinda homo."

"Well technically-

"Shut up Ichigo! Almost fucking your pretty pass does not make me a cock sucker-

Ichigo couldn't help it. He laughed. If that's what made a man like Kenpachi sleep better at night-let him think what he wanted. "It's really good to hear from you Kenpachi."

"You too kid. So you comin' or what?"

"I can't at least not tonight anyway."

"Why not? Gotta go sit through some girly ballet or something?"

"No I promised my old man I'd help him out with something."

"Uh huh and what would that be?"

"Uh well just family togetherness, you know how these things go."

This time it was Kenpachi's turn to laugh, "Fine I'll let you off this time but you better be here on New Years or else I'll come down there and-

Ichigo didn't know why he was about to agree but he figured what's the worst that could happen?

(('Stupid King haven't ya learned anything by now?'))

((Knock it off Shirosaki! Where's your Christmas spirit?))

((Prob'ly hidin' back up at the mansion with Sousuke-sama, call him up and maybe I'll fi-

((No!))

(('Heh, then 'least stop bein' so damn lame blow off this party and then go blow 'Pachi.'))

((No.))

'Ya suck king and not in the good way either.'

'Yeah, yeah save it for someone who cares.'

"I'm gonna hang up now Ichigo-don't want your pretty boy loan shark to get his panties in a bunch."

"He doesn't wear panties."

Kenpachi laughed even harder. "Course not cuz he knows he can't compete with an' ass like yours-and you got one hell of an ass, kid."

"Ke-Kenpachi!"

More laughter. "Take care Ichigo and don't forget about New Years-these pumps only got one name on them and that's yours."

After that the man hung up and Ichigo let out a sigh-

"Why is it that I couldn't wholly and completely love him again?"

'Because ya heart belongs to another whether ya wanna admit it or not.'

Ichigo rubbed his chest knowing that his "hollow" was right.

"It doesn't matter. What's done is done."

()()()

(Gin)

Little did our favorite orange berry know a certain silver fox was in the middle of finalizing some last minute plotting…

"Aizen-sama really did want to make it to Masaki-san's dinner the shindig the other night but he was called away on business and offers this as an apology."

Isshin's face was serious as he studied the silver fox. "I don't know what happened between Aizen and my boy but if I found out he was lying-he will have a lot more to answer to than my wife's lie detector and you can tell him I said that."

"Oooh such a scary expression-I can see where Ichi-chan gets it from," Gin snickered and the presented the goat with a bottle of long island rum and continued with "Ichi-chan belongs with Aizen-sama, they were made for each other-don't believe me-take a look at this.

The silver haired man reached inside one of his pockets and pulled out a mini stack of photographs-flashing them at the dark haired man.

His favorite being the one of Ichi-chan and Aizen-sama snuggled closely on the love seat in the living room of the mansion.

Ichimaru Gin wouldn't be Ichimaru Gin if he didn't sneak around from time to time-the photos were not real obviously-ah the joys of technology and photo shop.

Cost the silver fox more than a pretty penny but it got the job done.

"Even yer got to admit Ichi-chan looks happy with Aizen-sama."

Isshin took a few minutes to examine the photographs more closely then he handed them back to Gin-a light smile was on his face now.

He slapped the silver-haired man on the back "Great! Ichigo just stepped out but I can tell him you''re-

Gin slipped the doctored-photos back in his pocket "That won't be necessary, already got someone to fetch Ichi-chan as we speak.

The goat blinked and then narrowed his eyes at the younger man-face serious once more "Who?"

Gin snickered-thinking that in an alternate universe or under different circumstances it might be fun to play with this man.

'Ichi-chan's papi is kinda cute in his own way.'

"Don't worry yer pretty head Isshin-san, Ichi-chan is in good hands. Kaname was a nanny for 13 years before he adopted a child of his own. Why don't you just go back inside and enjoy yer party unless ya wanna discuss somethin' else with me."

Gin presented the goat with his business card and a box of cigars-

Isshin frowned "I gave up smoking after my girls were born."

But even as the man said this, his eyes lingered on the box-

The silver fox grinned and opened the box- "How about we split one then? Then ya won't have to feel so guilty."

"Well-

Gin selected one of the cigars and waved it under the dark haired man's nose "Smell that? Pure 100 percent Cuban tobacco."

He grinned wider "Another gift from Aizen-sama."

The goat looked a little drunk by now- "I suppose it wouldn't hurt," he searched his pockets most likely looking for a lighter. "Damnit I knew I had a packet of matches in here somewhere."

Gin would have continued to play but he had his own holiday party to get back to "I have a lighter," he reached into the pocket of his vest holding up the shiny object "I'll expect it back o' course-yer can give it to me in Spring at Hali-chan's baby shower."

"Hali-chan?"

"Oh didn't I tell ya? Aizen-sama had many children-Hali-chan is his eldest daughter-she and her life partner are expectin' a baby girl."

Dark brows furrowed, "A baby shower-what does a baby shower have to do with returning your lighter?"

"Cuz it'll be Ichi-chan's baby shower as well," crimson eyes twinkled, "He jus' doesn't know it yet."

The goat blinked once. Blinked twice. Blinked three times.

"…"

Gin's grin was so damn wide now it was surprise his face didn't hurt.

"WHAT?"

()()

(Ichigo)

"It's nice to see you again too Tousen-san but uh what are you doing here?"

Even though Ichigo knew he'd probably hear an earful later the orange haired youth didn't have any desire to go back inside right away but it was a bit of a surprise to see Aizen's housemate/business partner here of all places.

It wasn't like goat face was part of some big law firm or hospital or something-much closer to a clinic and even though it was one of the best clinics in Karakura Town it wasn't exactly ritzy-he guessed Tousen-san might know one of the doctors or nurses and that is why he was here at the not so quiet party.

"Interesting choice of costume but aren't you a bit cold?"

"Well I would be except it has thermal heating pads sewn in on the inside."

Why was he telling the man this? He doubted Tousen even cared not to mention his question hadn't been answered.

"Are you meeting someone?"

"No I've come to speak with you actually."

"Um about what?"

"I would prefer to discuss it somewhere warmer do you think you can step away from the party for a little while and follow me back to the limo?"

Limo? He hoped Toshiro wasn't the one driving tonight.

"It will only take a few minutes out of your time, Ichigo."

"Sure I mean uh lead the way."

()()

Ichigo followed Tousen at a leisurely pace making small talk along the way.

"Finish all your holiday shopping already?"

"Yes and you?"

"More or less-I mean there are a few last minute gifts to wrap but the main ones are under the tree."

"Everyone was looking forward to seeing you at the mansion you know. Even Wonderweiss insisted upon getting you a stocking to hang above the fireplace."

"Uh no offense Tousen-san I mean it's a nice gesture and everything but I don't even know you guys that well and-

"How well do any of us truly know our family members Ichigo?"

Er family?

"You should at least come over to try some of my squash and collect your presents."

Why the hell did everyone keep buying him gifts?

"I don't need anything. A simple greeting card would have been fine."

Although truthfully Ichigo didn't even want that.

"I was under the impression that you had taken a genuine interest in Aizen-sama."

Ichigo didn't know how to respond to this so he said nothing.

And then tried to switch the subject "So what was it you wished to show me?"

Tousen stopped and turned to smirk at him. "You will get your answer as soon as we get there."

()()

FLASH

One of the things Unohana Retsu had taught Ichigo during their sessions was…

"Sometimes an event or an item and even a person can trigger or unlock unwanted memories. This is a lesson you have to learn-the one I plan to teach you-I want to show you that you can confront those memories."

"And if I don't want to?"

"I'd like you to try Ichigo it is the only way you'll be able to move forward."

The boy sitting in the leather recliner crossed his arms-showing the woman that he had no intention of cooperating with this little exercise or whatever.

Hell he didn't even know why goat face insisted on his coming here-he was a hero-they should be throwing him a party not stuffing him in a brightly lit room with a 'doctor'

Ichigo didn't think there was anything wrong with killing a man who had threatened to harm his mother first-he could still see the events as though they happened only yesterday rather than half a year ago-but the boy had no desire to rehash-no desire to go back.

He didn't feel guilt or remorse for taking another life.

And so that automatically made him unfeeling? Damaged? Deranged?

"What exactly do you wish for me to tell you sensei?"

As far as Ichigo was concerned the woman was neither his teacher nor his doctor-she probably signed on for this position so she could retire before she even reached the age of 30.

He didn't hate her but he didn't particularly like her either.

Actually the orange haired boy didn't like women in general unless they were his Kaa-san but Kaa-san was different-Kaa-san was his world.

"It's perfectly normal to be afraid Ichigo."

"Who says I'm afraid-not like I've never seen blood before."

"Blood?"

Shit he hadn't meant to let that slip out. The orange haired boy closed his eyes and began to distract himself from the woman's inquiring gaze. He absentmindedly played with the drawstring on his hood.

"Where the hell is goat face anyway? He said half and hour not all damn day."

'I can help ya escape King, for a price.'

'You're not here, you're not here.'

The boy covered his ears as if to block out the voice who entered his mind just then-it hadn't always been there-

'Been here long enough to tell ya that escapin' from this place ain't gonna happen unless ya listen to me.'

The boy pressed his fingers into his ears-desperate to shout out the voice which was so much like his own yet entirely different at the same time.

'Ya know ya'd be nothin' with out me Ichi-let me out I wanna play.'

"You're not HERE!"

Ichigo hadn't realized he screamed these words out loud until he saw the look of alarm cross Unohana's face.

"Who is not here Ichigo? Are you saying you see someone else?"

The woman stilled her pen against her note pad, crossed her hands over her knees and waited for his explanation.

'Now ya've done it King.'

'Shut up you-

'Names Shirosaki but ya already know this-Zan already told ya.'

A feeling of something like hope warmed Ichigo-he shut his eyes once more and called out to-

Well Ichigo didn't even know what Zan was exactly-couldn't explain Zan anymore than he could explain Shirosaki.

They didn't even have a shape-just voices-two very distinct voices which mirrored yet not quite mirrored his own.

What did a 7 year old know about voices in his head? What did a boy know about feeling like he was in control yet not in control at the same time?

'Zan's on vacation but I'm here to stay-so King ya've got two options-One) Let me out and I'll take ya to the nearest fun house-I know how much you love those mirrors-or Two) I scrape my way out, put the doc lady in a permanent sleep just like I did to ole' slicker face-tick tock.'

Shirosaki was lying. Zan wouldn't just leave him-not after-

"Ichigo!"

The boy jumped and stuffed his hands inside the sleeves of his hoodie-refusing to meet the woman's gaze.

"Let's pretend for a moment that I am not your doctor but your friend-let's say that as your friend I-

'Don't listen to her King, trust me ya won't like it.'

Ichigo snorted and although he was speaking inside his head the words found its way past his lips-

"She can't be any worse than you."

"She? Who? Your mother?"

'Can ya believe this bitch-she jus' insulted ya Kaa-chan-come on King let me kill her!'

"No Kaa-san would never-

"Then who? Your aunt? Your father tells me the woman is a bit rough around the edges and that she has quite the temper but-

What the hell did his Aunt have to do with anything? Unohana was pissing Ichigo off more and more by the minute.

When the boy did not give an immediate answer the woman moved out of her chair and walked over and kneeled before him-placing her hands on top of his lap.

"Ichigo?"

The boy blinked rapidly-wondering when the hell the doctor had gotten so close-

'Tch look at that King, on top of insultin' Kaa-chan this bitch is getting' in ya private space-can I please just maim her a lil bit-

"SHUT UP SHUT UP SHUT UP!"

The boy screamed right before he sent the woman flying backwards a good couple of feet.

Unohana did not cry out or look at him with horror-rather the woman as looked as though he had just helped her confirm something.

Rising to her feet the doctor moved back to the other side of the room and returned to her desk, folding her hands once again. "Well Ichigo it seems that talking has upset you so we are going to try something else."

Something else? What did she mean by that?

()()

Someone was tapping his cheek-cinnamon and coffee colored eyes fluttered open to find a dark man hovering over him-

Ichigo looked around wondering why the man was here and why it was snowing and then he remembered he was outside-

"But why am I on the ground?"

'Think King it'll come to ya.'

Orange brows furrowed…

()()

RESUME FLASH

"Yesterday we were talking about confronting unwanted memories-today we are going to take it one step further and instead of just thinking back and discussing your memories I want you to go back and relive them-do you think you can do that for me Ichigo?"

The boy felt calm today and he did not wish to argue with the woman-he took another sip from the tea the woman had poured and gave a slight nod.

Unohana seemed pleased with his answer and patted the vanity couch next to her "I think it would be best if you get yourself as comfortable as possible. Why don't you sit here Ichigo?"

'I wouldn't do that if I were ya King-sounds kinda fishy-what next she gonna strap ya down and poke and prod ya with needles?'

'Bring Zan back!'

'Zan can not be reached at the moment-fact he's gonna be gone for awhile-

'Why?'

A snicker. 'Wouldn't ya like to know-too bad I'm not gonna tell ya-not if ya don't stop actin' like I don't exist.'

'But you don't! You're probably just some demon or something like in bedtime stories Kaa-san tells me sometimes-you can't hurt me though because demons aren't real.'

'Really? What else did Kaa-chan tell ya?'

Ichigo furrowed his brows.

More cackling followed 'She never told ya a damn thing-admit it Ichi ya got no one but me right now'

'No you're lying!'

'Am I? Then why were ya able to sleep peacefully last night-why didn't ya wake up screamin?'

'Easy. Cuz Kaa-san was right down the hall and she would never let anything happen to me.'

'Wrong again King-I'm the one who protects ya from the things that scare ya most-I'm the one who controls ya brain and body when it freezes up-I'm the one who helped ya out that day on the train.'

The boy shook his head almost violently

'No it was Zan-Zan was the one who told me to-

'Look Ichi there is no Zan-not in the way that ya think anyway-we aren't separate entities-we're one in the same-to put it a way so ya can understand it-imagine someone reached inside ya and ripped your soul-not once, not twice but three times. Zan is the side of your soul who remembers the previous life times ya've lived-he knows patience, he knows heartache, struggle, determination, he's what I like to term a moral man-led ya down the path of light and all that-

I only the other hand am the piece of ya soul who carries the weight, the pain, hatred, guilt, anger, sadness, lust (somethin' ya won't understand til ya are older) pride and so on-ya can't have one with out the other-the day of the train incident I was the side ya relied heavily on-your anger and ya burnin' desire to kill the bastard who was hurtin' Kaa-chan outweighed your fear-overpowered ya hesitation, self doubt-if ya don't believe me ask the doc for a mirror.'

Wishing to understand but still wary Ichigo opened his mouth and asked the woman "Do you have a mirror Unohana-sensei?"

The woman did not answer right away as she finished scribbling down notes-a moment later she looked up-a serene smile on her face. "Of course Ichigo."

()()

Ichigo shook his head wishing to banish the not-so-joyous moments of the past and tried to figure out why such memories had been triggered in the first place and then he saw it-

A tiny mirror dangling off the pocket of Tousen's pants.

The man hadn't done or said anything nor gave an indication as to what he was unintentionally doing to the orange haired youth. Tousen looked perplexed and disturbed.

"Do you need help to stand Ichigo?"

Why was he still lying in the snow?

After a moment or two Ichigo accepted the hand that was offered and asked "Did I faint?"

"I wouldn't exactly call it a faint but something close to it-

"Geez Ichi-chan yer look like ya seen a ghost or soemthin'

"Ichimaru!"

"Tsk, tsk we're bed-buddies now Kaname, that's not the proper way to address me."

Ichigo's eyes darted back and forth between the two men.

First Tousen and now Gin? Was he missing something?

"Ichi-chan somethin' the matter?"

'Before ya go babblin' your secrets away I think ya should first find out why they tracked ya down.'

Shirosaki had a point.

"Ichi-chan?"

"I-

He couldn't exactly tell Gin and Tousen that the mere sight of a mirror had caused him to have an "episode" so Ichigo just shrugged and played it casual "It's nothing I'm just a bit tiered I guess." He yawned in order to back up his lame excuse. "Anyway what did you want to show or talk to me about Tousen-san?"

Gin waved his finger and made a clucking noise with his tongue "Now, now Ichi-chan if we told ya it wouldn't be a surprise-shame, shame on you tryin' to put Kaname on the spot-tryin' to win him over with those eyes of yours."

What the hell did the silver fox mean by that?

"Uh right well I guess I'll head back to the party then-everyone is probably wondering where I am and-

"Can't do that Ichi-chan, its not even midnight yet."

WHAT THE HELL?

Were Gin and Tousen playing with him?

What exactly was going on?

Was-no Sousuke wouldn't be behind this-would he?

Ichigo's eyes flicked to the shiny mirror dangling off the man's pants once more and the memories from the past hit him like a lightning bolt during a particularly violent storm.

()()

FLASH

The woman held out the mirror to the boy and despite the few smudges where he fingers had been-it was almost in perfect condition-

The boy ran his finger over the edge and the clutched his head and let out a horrific scream-the mirror slipped from his fingers and crashed to the floor-

He continued clutching his head-desperate to dig the pain out with his nails-

'Silly King can't let ya do that-once ya stop bein' so stubborn and tell the doc what she wished to know-

"SHUT UP!"

Unbeknownst to Ichigo once again the words were screamed out loud and the woman was alarmed-the boys eyes were fierce and pure liquid gold-a tiny ring of black surrounding each one-it was more than just seeing but unseeing-frozen Unohana could only watch on in horror as her patient continued to spiral into his memory…

()()

A light orange haired boy was currently bouncing up and down in his seat as he watched the outside scenery pass him by-change from wide open spaces (fields and valleys) and lots of greenery to cramped and heavily populated/polluted areas with loud high ways and sky scraper buildings.

Pulling away from the window Ichigo tapped the woman seated across from him "Kaa-san, Kaa-san do you think we can come back to visit pig-country soon?"

"We'll see Ichigo, mommy still has an important case to finalize."

The boy crossed his arms and pouted. "Aww but I wanna come back and play with Bonnie-chan-I think she's starting to like me."

The woman giggled behind her hand.

"It's true. Don't laugh at me Kaa-san."

"But it is kind of funny Ichigo-you see pigs are meant for-

The woman did not get to finish her sentence-as the door to the train car slid open-

Before Ichigo could quite figure out what was happening a cold piece of metal was being pressed against his throat-a human voice reached his ears-although calling it a human was a bit of stretch-through the reflection of the mirror on the other side Ichigo was able to make out mean angry eyes hidden behind a an ugly white mask and what looked like a cross behind a rain slicker and a cape of some sort-

A tiny squeak barely passed his lips but his Kaa-san never took her eyes off him-

"Stay still Ichigo-listen to everything mommy tells you."

The boy tried to nod but the pressure at his neck increased-so he tried to smile for the woman.

Eyes as hard as stone-shifting from amber-honeycomb to deep russet brown the boys' mother demanded to know the name of the one who dared to hold a knife at her son's throat-"WHO ARE YOU?"

"Think you can send my kid to death row do ya Masaki-think you can rip my son right out of my arms and walk away unscathed?" A chuckle that was anything but sane "We'll see how quick you are to send my boy to the crossroads when yours dies right here, right now."

"You keep my son out of this Fisher-san. If its revenge you're looking for turn your knife on me instead." (3)

What? What the hell was his Kaa-san saying?

"No Kaa-san you can-the boy stopped speaking as he felt the sharp sting on his neck-a thin trickle of blood- "Let him kill me if it means saving you-Yuzu and Karin still need you and ghost face would be lost with out you."

"Hush now Ichigo-it will all be over soon." Masaki's soft eyes grew hard once again as she turned her attention back to the 'man' in the rain-slicker "I'm right here Fisher-san, take my life if you honestly think it will make you feel any better."

Ichigo shut his eyes hearing his mother repeat the words "Hush now it will all be over soon. You have to be strong-

()()

"Deep breaths, easy now. Here drink this."

The boy came out of his dream like trance and allowed Unohana to help him sit up. His head no longer felt like it was going to explode-just a dull throb-barely noticeable.

"Do you want to talk about what just occurred Ichigo?"

Ichigo shook his head. "I want to go home and see my Kaa-san."

"Your mother, yes you called out to her for awhile now-what exactly happened-why did you call for her?"

'Is this bitch still tryin' to needle her way in? Geez just tell her something like Kaa-chan saved you from an on comin' train.'

'But isn't that too close to the-

'Do ya want her to know the whole truth King? They'll lock ya away for sure. Just listen to me I know what I'm talkin' about-

'Zan told me-

'Zan didn't tell ya-I told ya Ichi-I'm the one who told ya to stop attackin' like a lil baby and get up and fight-Zan just put ya at ease-told ya nothin' would happen to ya or Kaa-chan so long as ya listened-then I jumped up and bit the bastard on the arm-

'No I bit him on the arm. He tasted really salty and wrinkly-I remember my tummy hurt after words.'

'That's cuz I drew blood from the bastard-

'No! No you made Kaa-san cry that day.'

'Least I kept her alive-while ya sat there frozen and whinin' pathetically-

The boy shook his head.

"Lies! You-You LIE!"

ICHIGO

'Zan-Zangetsu?"

'Heh, bastard geezer couldn't ya stay away a lil' longer?'

'Zan is it really you?'

'I have never left your side Ichigo-you must calm yourself-stop screaming.'

'That's what I been tryin' to tell em'

'Zan he's lyin' right-Shirosaki is lying-it was really you who helped me save my Kaa-san that day wasn't it?'

'YES AND NO.'

()()

"Wakey, wakey Ichi-chan, we've arrived."

Ichigo sat up (wondering when he had apparently fallen asleep/passed out-wondering what he was doing inside a limo)

"Where are-what do you mean we've-?"

"You're starting to worry us Ichigo, here drink this it will help."

Finding nothing unusual about being offered a steaming hot Styrofoam cup of coffee the orange haired youth brought the said cup up to his lips and took a few sips.

Missing the look that passed between the two men.

()()()

As the familiar view of Victorian style cast iron gates came into full view Ichigo felt his blood run…well not necessarily cold-but he felt unsettled all the same.

A gloved hand was upon his shoulder and he turned to find the silver fox grinning at him expectantly "Why don't you head on inside Ichi-chan? Kaname and I will be a long a lil' while later."

"Uh I'd rather not."

"Come now don't be shy-sides its not like yer haven't been 'ere before."

Exactly-that was the problem.

Ichigo wasn't ready to face Sousuke. Wasn't even sure what he would say to the man.

Another hand fell upon his other shoulder as Tousen added, "Remember the presents I mentioned before?"

Ichigo nodded feeling irritated with his self and the two men-why the hell were they treating him like a little boy. "What about them?"

Crimson eyes danced. "Just humor a couple of ole' men and go and collect em' Ichi-chan-it's not gonna kill ya."

With an aggravated groan followed by a reluctant sigh Ichigo unlocked the doors, pushed the handle and stepped out-shivering just the slightest as a particularly harsh gust of wind blew up his back side-thermal pads or no-there was no denying the winter chill.

"Hurry and get inside Ichi-chan yer don't wanna catch cold."

A deep chuckle "Not that I think Aizen-sama would have any real objections to a semi-frosted berry."

Ichigo turned back around to glare and curse at the two men who thought it was fun to tease him but his voice was drowned out but the door being slammed shut-the engine purring back to life and the loud screech of the tires as the limo sped off into the dark of the night.

STAY TUNED FOR THE EPILOGUE

NOTES:

With a battle cry that could be heard clear across the mountain range and do Priestess Tobiume proud, Hinamori leapt out and charged at her target (1)

Snorts, yet another loose-canon reference-Hinamori's zanpakuto…and in the filer arc at least in my opinion the way Tobiume was drawn reminded me of a priestess-calm yet deadly or something.

Next…"

Quiet Isshin! You're much too trusting of men with shiny hair and fancy business suits-its no wonder Jiro pulled a fast one on you that time and you wound up having to date a lone shark to make up for the difference." (2)

It's sort of like my own secret fetish-shiny hair and fancy suits-but in addition to this, when it comes to the manga/anime universe-particularly of the BL genre, I can't get enough of "loan sharks" or Yakuza types. I have the not-so-secret obsession with making Isshin a former candy boy (slut) before Masaki came into his life.

FINALLY

"You keep my son out of this Fisher-san. If its revenge you're looking for turn your knife on me instead." (3)

Fisher-san-snerks, the Grand fisher obviously-only he didn't succeed in killing Masaki this time.

Additional notes: The creation of the train incident is partially inspired by a conversation with RamenCupMiso-she brought up quite a few good points and made SLY realize that rather than just revealing bits and pieces to Ichigo's split-personality-its should be more in depth then I originally planned to make it. So thank you Miso!

I'm sure those of you that still bother to sit here and read this are probably asking yourselves: SLY, why bother labeling a story AiIchi when its pretty clear that the orange berry really belongs with Ken-chan?

Answer: It is not so much that Ichigo belongs with Ken-chan but there is no denying there obvious connection-on top of which KENICHI is BonneSarah's OTP so naturally he's gonna get extra moments with the berry.

And then you're probably asking/wondering: Well then why does it seem like Ichigo is settling? It doesn't make a whole lot of sense for him to constantly obsess over other men when Aizen-sama is supposed to be his number 1?

Answer: It's difficult to say when I originally set out to write this TAXI, TAXI sequel/continuation there was only supposed to be one other suitor competing for Ichigo's affections and that's Grimmjow but then well…things happened and Ken-chan wanted to come out and play-as for Nnoitra?...In short Bonne just made me realize that there is no story complete with out him.

If you read/follow my other fics you will see that the main pairing is never exactly the main focus and why?

Because writing multi-berry chasers is half the fun!

Reminders: After the epilogue, which should be posted in a few days…keep a look out for the ALTERNATE WINNERS!

If you are still rooting for Ken-chan: Stay Tuned For Alternate Ending Number

1) Shades of Orange: But I'm Not The Bride!

If you feel cheated and wish that it were Grimm who came out on top: Stay Tuned for Alternate Ending Number

2) Shades of Orange: Can't Call It A Convention Without the Occasional Fan Boy!

If you are one of the rare few who can't get enough of Nnoitra and want to see more of him: Stay Tuned For Alternate Ending Number

3)Shades of Orange: Ho, Ho Woah!