Disclaimer: I own boots but they are not DIRTY BOOTS! That is all Kubo-sensei

A/N What more notes? What for? Who the hell has notes in an epilogue? And how exactly can you call this epilogue anyway? Shrugs, anyway it really doesn't help that my brain has trouble making up its mind from time to time… In the not so far away future when I write more Aizen and Ichigo…it won't be this scatter brained that's for damn sure. ANYWAY ENJOY!

The one I wrote it for:

Ah Bonne it seems like its been forever and a year (maybe it has) when I spoke to you about how it all comes to a close…for the most part I stuck to it but some things changed, hope you don't mind too much.

~SLY~

To my loyal ones: (Miso, Ane-chan, Totoromo) Show me the way ladies, I am but an imperfect human.

Warnings: IS IT REALLY NECESSARY AT THIS POINT? I don't think so

Shades of Orange

THE NOT QUITE EPILOGUE

What comes after the Mistletoe?

(Ulquiorra)

It was good to be in control. To hold the power over his moronic, stubborn, selfish siblings.

Ulquiorra rarely had a reason to celebrate anything-rarely had a reason to be excited-

What was the reason for the green-eyed male's happiness?

The main star was about to arrive. He just received the text from Gin-oji-the silver fox had sounded positively giddy on the other end-

Yes everything was working out just as it should.

There had been a few stumbles-a few slip ups but not all was lost because it was only Christmas Eve.

Ulquiorra barely batted a lash as his previously unconscious siblings woke up to glare darkly at him.

With Starrk, Lilinette, Neliel and even Wonderweiss' assist he had knocked the troublesome trio out with some simple tranquilizer darts and bound their hands behind their backs and to the chairs with rope-green and red to keep in the holiday spirit.

An unknowing person would probably think such actions were a bit extreme-but then that unknowing person didn't know the trio like Ulquiorra did. Grimmjow, Nnoitra and Halibel (when angered) would make wild pack of hyenas look like hairless dogs in comparison. And even that description wasn't strong enough.

"Grimmjow, Nnoitra, Halibel you have brought this upon yourselves."

Always the one to follow certain habits the blue haired male was the one to vocally express his displeasure first "Ulquiorra you fuckin little bastard what the hell is this shit huh?"

"I'm sure if you used that thing you call a brain for once the answer would come to you Grimmjow."

Naturally the blue-haired male wouldn't be satisfied until he fired off a death threat or two- "The moment I get free I'll fuckin' kill all of you-accept for you Lili sweetie, be a good girl and untie big brother Grimm would ya?"

Lilinette looked to Starrk for approval "Should I?"

Starrk looking half asleep as always yawned out a simple "No."

"Really Quiorra if ya missed me that damn badly ya shoulda just dropped in for tea and crumpet hour, ya didn't have to knock a man out when he's in the middle of bathin'."

Ulquiorra refrained from rolling his eyes at the predictable behavior of his tallest sibling. "You can shower as much as you like Nnoitra it will not erase the evidence of your crimes," a barely noticeable smirk, "Only Kurosaki's forgiveness can save you now."

The dark-haired male sneered, "What you're little priest teach you that lesson or something-spouse I should start sayin' my hail Mary's then too?"

Ulquiorra did not bother with a response but turned his attention on to Halibel who hadn't said anything yet.

"You had plenty to say over the course of the past month and a half Halibel, I find it hard to believe that you have run out of words."

Poison greens narrowed to slits "What would you like for me to say Ulquiorra? That you were right all along? That you are the better child-more deserving of father's love is that what you want me to say?"

The blonde spat blood as Uquiorra backhanded her "It would be a good start."

Halibel looked positively murderous now and she turned to her sister for help. Nel was sitting quietly on the arm of the couch while she let Wonderweiss braid her hair and pretended not to acknowledge the fact that any one else was in the room with her.

"YOU stupid fuckin' retard untie us NOW!"

It was not the blonde to scream out such a cruel demand but Nnoitra.

A silent message passed between Ulquiorra and Starrk and a moment later the dark-haired males' bitch-rant-fest was effectively muffled by a handkerchief.

"Thank you Starrk."

The coyote simply nodded and Ulquiorra continued,

"Now then can I continue with out interruptions?"

"We're all ears-not like you've given us much of a choice Ulquiorra."

"On second thought Starrk-

The rest of Ulquiorra's sentence never made its way past his lips-but again it wasn't necessary because the coyote got the message loud and clear.

"Gag her too." He pointed at Halibel who had still (unsuccessfully) been trying to gain Neliel's attention.

Pleased that he could finally finish what he wished to say the pale-faced green-eyed male decided to take this time to celebrate-he lifted his glass of eggnog and took a sip-not bothering to wipe his lips with the chance that he might smear his lipstick.

"We have all wronged Kurosaki Ichigo at one point or another but you 3 went beyond simply hazing and teasing the boy-you 3 went out of your way to humiliate, confuse and put his life in danger.

How did you think things would turn out? Did you honestly believe you would get away with such selfish and arrogant acts? Take a moment let it all sink in only then will you be able to fully understand the damage that you have caused."

"…"

And then muffled sounds and clinking of rings against the back of the chair-Nnoitra's chair to be exact.

Oh no Ulquiorra was not going to let anyone escape tonight!

"Lilinette tighten the knot on Nnoitra's rope-we don't want him to accidentally get free and then molest Aizen-sama's bride to be once he arrives."

At last Nel looked up "Ichi is comin' to see us?"

Starrk shook his head and answered, "Not to see us, Neliel-to see father."

"Thank you for your helpful explanations Starrk but I'd like to continue if you don't mind?"

Gray eyes narrowed and the Coyote's usual lazy drawl was laced with something like annoyance "Do not talk to me like I am one of them, Ulquiorra."

Ulquiorra didn't have the energy nor the time for unnecessary drama and so he bowed his head "My apologizes, it won't happen again."

Starrk seemed content enough and let the green-eyed male continue.

"We had one mission and that mission was to find father a bride and then present him or her to father on Christmas night. Is this or is it not true-a simple nodding of your stubborn heads will do."

Still glaring daggers and struggling to break free from their bonds the trio ignored him-no matter Ulquiorra would not stoop to their level and stomp his foot like a child and demand their attention.

Because it was not necessary since he knew Grimmjow, Nnoitra and Halibel were in fact listening.

"Now Grimmjow it comes as no real surprise to anyone that you did not complete your role on the mission-you have always been stubborn, rebellious, arrogant and when you see something or someone (as with the case of Kurosaki) you ignore all the rules and the natural order-your place in this family is shot to hell. Are you proud of yourself?"

Electric blue eyes flashed-even with the gag Ulquiorra could more or less figure out what the foolish brute thought of "family" and "order"

"We will credit you for one thing though Grimmjow-for all your lewd comments and suggestive gestures-even though you had plenty of opportunities you did not give in to your primal urges and taint the bride to be-in fact and I think all of you can agree with me when I say this. We should commend Grimmjow for keeping his dick in his pants-why not take it one step further and give him a round of applause."

Starrk did not bother to hide his amusement-Neliel looked like she didn't quite understand what had just been said and Wonderweiss and Lilinette were thankfully too enraptured with the fairytale book laid out on the coffee table.

"Congratulations Grimmjow, there might just be a piece of humanity somewhere in you after all."

If Ulquiorra didn't have the instincts to duck his porcelain white face would have met the heel of Grimmjow's combat boots just then.

"Hmm I suppose I deserve that for not being smart enough to bind your legs together as well." Ulquiorra straightened out the non-existent wrinkles in his pants "Let's move on shall we? Halibel would you care to tell the group why you have such an obsession with injecting helpless boys with untested drugs?"

Poison green eyes narrowed to the thinnest of slits.

"Halibel if it's attention and love your looking for perhaps you should spend more time with Nemu rather than plotting ways to bring a new life into the picture-into this chaos-into this home based on nothing but lies and selfishness, betrayal and really must I go on?

You know what you have done- a pause-Ulquiorra raised the glass of egg nog to his lips again and took a few more sips "I admit the idea of seeing Kurosaki with the glow of motherhood around him is still a fitting image-however we agreed from the start that such a decision was not ours to make.

"Nothing-I repeat nothing gives you the right to forcefully hold another human being down and use them like a guinea pig all in the name science!"

Naturally the blonde didn't even flinch or bat a lash because she did not care-in the long run it did matter how it happened-

Ulquiorra would like to smack Halibel again but violence was not the answer.

Turning away from the blonde in disgust he stepped over and stopped right in front of Nnoitra-hating that that grin never left the other dark haired males face even when he was gagged.

"The black sheep finally returns home-are you having fun yet Nnoitra?"

Wanting to hear a verbal response Ulquiorra signaled that Starrk should remove the gag.

"Not really but maybe if ya got up and danced with a rockin' horse like ya did when we were younger I wouldn't feel the urge to pass out from your boring rambling."

"Rambling?"

"Did it sound like I fuckin' stuttered?"

()()

(Ichigo)

The door was slightly open which Ichigo thought was a little odd not to mention dangerous and totally un-Sousuke ish.

Not that anyone with a brain would be foolish enough to steal from the man-but still…

Could he really just push the door open and enter the mansion uninvited?

Even though Tousen and Gin said Aizen was expecting him what if they were lying?

And what was up with tea and the mirror and the words that sounded like an exact echo of what Unohana had said years ago?

'I am so sick and tiered of being confused-I just want some real answers-from the horse's mouth.'

()()

The saying 'be careful what you wish for' never rang more true then it did at that moment.

Voices. Not just a one voice but several. Several familiar voices.

Ichigo was not the type to eavesdrop but when he caught his name in the conversation he couldn't help but press his ear to the wall-

'Are ya sure you wanna do this King?'

'They're talking about me, all of them.'

'Well its not like its nothin' ya haven't heard and technically its Quiorra lecturin' them about what they did to you."

'Yes but its more than that I mean from the sound of things they've been planning this for awhile-a lot longer than Hiyori led me to believe not that its her fault-even spies don't get all the information right-

'What are ya gonna do Ichi-wanna go in there and spill some blood?'

Ichigo shook his head. He had no interest in starting a brawl-

"I want to talk to Sousuke."

'Heh, course ya do.'

'But from the sound of things he's asleep upstairs so might as well talk to them first-learn any left out tidbits and things like that.'

'And the mirror?'

'I'll get to that point when I get there now be quiet I can't think if you're-

'Yeah, yeah I know I'll be quiet as a mouse just for ya Ichi.'

His stalkers might not have any intention of telling him anything-Ichigo did realize this-

"I deserve an explanation-A REAL one."

()()

"It really wasn't necessary for you to break the door when it is mainly there for decoration," even though Starrk was the one who said it the goateed male seemed more amused than anything. "Long time no see, Ichigo."

Ichigo rubbed the back of his neck-cursing his excitement for getting the best of his common sense-he ignored Shirosaki who was cackling widely in the back of his head and made a comment like

'Well I sure somethin' can be arranged-like vowin' to be Sousuke-sama's eternal bed slave will more than compensate for the door ya just smashed in to.'

"Uh sorry about that," an awkward laugh "Guess I just don't know my own strength at times."

"Ichi-pet so nice of ta to drop in-come to give us a lil' show-well actually I'm the only one worthy of seein' ya pretty ass but since it is the hols' and all I figure-

"Silence Nnoitra!"

"Aww come Quiorra I was sayin' is Ichi s-mph (…)

Ichigo raised a brow-wondering if it was really a coincidence or the fates were playing another practical joke on him.

Why the hell was Nnoitra dressed in a red and white Santa suit with black boots?

'I think the real question ya wanna ask here King is what's with the ropes and the gags-take a look its not just Nnoi, Grimm and Hali are bein' restrained too.'

"Itsugo!"

As always with out much warning a flash of seagreen and gold and Nel was attempting to smother the life out of him by greeting him with her jingle-jugs. "Itsugo Nels so glad you came."

"As am I pet, come sit in Santa-sama's lap?"

Ichigo didn't want to do anything of the sort. He cleared his throat as a way to keep focused and not let his eyes settle on Sexy Santa Nnoi or Peppermint Panther Grimm-

'Peppermint Panther-ya come up with that all on ya own just now Ichi-?'

'Well what the hell else am I supposed to call him? I mean he's wearing stripes and his hair is shaped and styled like cat ears tonight.'

'Hehehe makes ya wonder what Sousuke-sama is wearin' don't it-maybe an angel costume or nothin' at all.'

The blood rushed to Ichigo's cheeks so fast this time he almost had a nosebleed-

'I'm sure if ya asked one of em' for a tissue they'd gladly-

"Itsugo why are yous bleeding? Did Nels hug you too hard?"

The Coyote's smooth chuckles drowned out his hollows snickering.

Ichigo shook his head-banishing any and all smexy images and addressed the group as a whole "I don't plan to stick around for long but Gin and Tousen-san insisted that I come here because Aizen wished to speak with me but they never mentioned that any of you would be here and-

"One thing at a time Kurosaki. First you'd like to hear the rest of our story right?"

"How did you-?"

"The walls are not exactly paper thin but your breathing pattern is unmistakable."

Not for the first time Ichigo thought Ulquiorra was really sort of creepy.

"My breathing?"

The green-eyed male let out an aggravated sigh. "Of course you know some of this could have been avoided if you had listened to me and opened your duffle bag when we went out for ice cream during that one afternoon."

"Ice-cream? Heh does that mean Quiorra also shared some of his special cream with you right out in broad daylight Ichi-pet?"

Ulquiorra whirled around so fast he could put a tornado to shame "Nnoitra do shut your mouth before I shut it for you!"

The black-haired male snickered and Ichigo fought down a blush.

He had never imagined sharing Ulquiorra's cream or whatever but could admit at the very least that it might have been interesting.

'Don't get side tracked now Ichi.'

'Don't worry I'm not.'

And suddenly the room was much too quite for the orange haired youth's liking.

Several pairs of eyes-

"What? Stop looking at me!"

"Calm down Ichigo we're only waiting for you to gather your thoughts and ask questions."

"Starrk's right," Lilinettte chimed in, "Here have a cookie, Nana-Kana made em' fresh just this morning."

Some how the image of a man like Tousen being both a nanny and a baker was rather amusing but then again Kenpachi liked to cook so-

"Anytime you're ready to start firing away questions go ahead and fire, Ichigo."

"Um well okay I'll start with something basic: Did you have anything to do with the-this is gonna sound really dumb and I'm kind of embarrassed to ask but-

"Don't be shy pet, ask away."

"Well I made an appointment to see my doctor a short while back but when I arrived there he was-well the nurse told me he had taken a temporary leave of absence which sounds normal enough except Ishida-sensei never takes a leave of absence."

"Who is your question being directed to Kurosaki?"

'Well uh Starrk actually."

A look passed between the Coyote and his sister.

"Before I answer your question, why do you think it was me? What led you to this conclusion, Ichigo?"

"Well for starters I happen to be friends with his son and secondly Ishida-sensei seems to be missing his favorite tie."

Ichigo had been rather surprised when Ishida told him the story as well-he thought the fashion designer was just messing around with until he recalled that Ishida does not joke about anything.

"Well to put it as simply as possible when I found out I was wasting my time stalking you I decided to move on to someone else."

"And you chose my doctor?"

Starrk scratched his chin "Well do you have someone better in mind Ichigo?"

"No."

"Is there a point to this Kurosaki, what does any of this have to do with the mission?"

"I'm getting there-actually on that same day and several times after that day-Ichigo trailed off-

"Yes Kurosaki?"

"Uh never mind, forget it."

"Aww come on Ichi-pet we're not gonna judge ya-just ask."

"Nnoitra," Ulquiorra's green eyes flashed, "I am not going to tell you again."

()()

"So at one point or anther in your lives all of you were adopted and raised by Aizen?"

Several head nods.

"And in order to repay/thank him for taking care of you, the decision to set out and find him a bride was made?"

"That pretty much sums it up, yes."

Orange brows furrowed still not really getting it. "But why me? And no wise cracks about how I had a soft and vulnerable or girly look about me-male or female-I don't care I'll kick all of your asses so damn hard you won't be able to-

"You really needn't finish your threat Kurosaki-no one here believes you are weak or soft."

"Then why-?"

"Well I really couldn't tell ya Ichi-pet seein' as I only met ya once if ya'd like to get to know me a bit beter-I could show ya a night out on the town-free of charge." Nnoitra's grin was as wide and perverted as his nature suggested.

"Uh-

"Ignore him Kurosaki and tell us how you were able to escape the wrath of Hinamori?"

Ichigo really rather not talk about the less-than-stable brown-eyed girl who attempted to kill him and destroy his chances with Sousuke-

"I've got a better idea why don't you untie them." (he motioned to Nnoitra and Grimmjow)

"Aren't you forgetting someone Ichigo?"

"Hmm, nope no one worth mentioning anyway."

"What about Halibel?"

A dark shadow crossed over the orange haired youth's face just then.

And then he muttered out a "Whatever."

"…"

Minutes passed-Ulquiorra did not make a move nor motioned to the Coyote to untie Grimmjow or Nnoitra.

Ichigo thought it was ridiculous-he didn't have the energy-

"Look I don't want to disrupt whatever sort of power trip mojo or whatever you're on right now Ulquiorra but there's no reason to keep them tied up and gagged."

"Well technically pet I could untie myself at anytime but thanks all the same."

Ichigo rolled his eyes. "Look Ulquiorra I don't want to cause any unnecessary drama but I would like to speak to Grimmjow and Nnoitra."

()()

(Ulquiorra)

Ulquiorra felt the second smirk of the night stretch its way across his lips-loving the way Kurosaki's eyes grew to a comical size as he showed off his "unique skill" the look of total and complete bafflement laced with something else-no matter how hard the orange haired male tried he just couldn't seem to figure out his speed.

"Ask politely and perhaps I will consider granting your request."

Cheeks slightly pink-whether it is was from the current close proximity (invading the younger male's space) or the possibility that Kurosaki's silly costume was as tight as it looked and the berry was having trouble breathing-it was tough to say-

"Please untie and un-gag Grimmjow and Nnoitra."

"And Halibel?"

Brown eyes flashed with something that the green eyed male hadn't thought was possible for Kurosaki to feel-he always seemed like such a forgiving type-even more so with the fairer sex-

'Hmm curious as ever Kurosaki.'

"I don't really care either way so long as she comes no where near me."

"Fair enough." Much like before Ulquiorra signaled to the Coyote and Lilinette.

()()

(Ichigo)

"They are released from their bonds, what now Kurosaki?"

"I want to talk to them."

"Talk, then."

"No not with everyone else around-I mean, I uh want to ask Grimmjow and Nnoitra something in private."

Ulquiorra looked perplexed "Why?"

Ichigo really didn't want to explain that among the group he felt he could be who he really was among the two arrogant for their own good bastards.

"Because-

"Outta the way Quiorra my pet wants to talk to me then he can talk to me-come Ichi-pet."

"I'm afraid I can't let you do that."

Ichigo had to admit he was rather impressed that Starrk who wasn't small by any stretch (but smaller than Nnoitra-this was just a fact) was actually blocking him.

"Before you talk to these two morons there's something I need to talk to you about."

Starrk wished to tell him something. That was rather unusual-

"Uh yeah sure-should we take it outside?"

"LIKE HELL YOU ARE!"

()()

(Grimmjow)

They should give him a fucking medal for not flying out of the seat and pouncing on his brat-that's right-he didn't give two shits if it was the holiday deadline-didn't give a fuck if Aizen was asleep upstairs like some stupid modern day dorky version of sleeping beauty-he didn't give an elf's left testicle if everyone else thought it was A-OKAY to pass his Kurosaki over to a bastard who spent too much damn time curling his fucking hair-

Electric blue eyes narrowed-why the fuck did everyone have to touch what was his-why the fuck did his brat have to dress twice as sexy tonight then he normally did-why the fuck were Starrk and Ulquiorra hogging the fucking spotlight-?

They didn't know Ichigo like Grimmjow did-no one knew Ichigo like Grimmjow did-and the Coyote had to piss him off further by-

Grimmjow still couldn't believe it-what the fuck did Starrk think he was doing-?

'All this time this piece of shit bastard claimed he was on my side-turns out he wanted Kurosaki to himself all along-not on my fuckin-!'

Grimmjow did not share ever-even though he and denture face had come to an agreement-said they would work together-some how find a way to be with Kurosaki at the same time-hell if the blue haired male was actually gonna follow through with it-!

The moment they all least expected-

()()

(Ichigo)

Curiosity and nothing more Ichigo was all set to follow Starrk out when he found he suddenly could not move-

There was a growl at his ear-

Ichigo tried not to think about how said growl still made him shiver in his dreams from time to time-something he hoped would eventually disappear once he and Sousuke finally-

"You're not going anywhere Kurosaki, not so long as I'm here."

'Aww how adorable the Peppermint Panther don't want ya to leave King.'

Ichigo mentally cursed 'If only he had-'

'If only, if only sometimes I think ya really should write a fuckin' book King. Ya can't keep beatin' yourself up over hormones.'

"Grimmjow, let go."

"No. I got you a present brat but you can't have it unless you follow me out to my new truck."

Ichigo let out a sigh. Again with the presents? Really? Did it say I need to be spoiled on his forehead or something.

"I don't need any presents, Grimmjow."

The hold around Ichigo's waist tightened rather than loosened and Grimmjow's growling tone grew deeper-

"You tellin' me that you'd rather pick some random spur of the moment night in a taxi with a bastard like Aizen-the asshole will never be a father to me something you should remember-but anyway like I was saying you'd pick Aizen and a taxi over countless memorable moments of groping and fondling sessions spent with me?"

"Love doesn't always-it isn't always logical Grimmjow-Sousuke is-

"Bastards name is Aizen, always Aizen!"

"Sousukemay not be a perfect man or hell even a perfect match for me but there's something about him that-well you know-

"The fuck? You don't love him Kurosaki, you're just-blinded by those-he fucked with your brain you know-does it with everyone-

There was a bite-more like a playful nip at the back of his neck

"Grimmjow, don't!"

"Say it like you mean it, Ichigo."

Ichigo blinked-did-? "Did you just call me-

"Move over pussy cat I wanna play with Ichi-pet too."

"Fuck off Jiruga you spent 5 minutes attempting to seduce MY brat with that stupid costume of yours so you can-

"ENOUGH, the both of you!"

It wasn't Ulquiorra or Starrk or even Halibel who Ichigo was still pretending didn't exist at the moment but Nel-

"Nel?"

"Back off Neliel it has nothin' to-

The sea-green-haired girl shook her head and stood her ground-eyes more serious then Ichigo had ever seen them before, "Grimmjow, Nnoitra I know you both have feelings for Ichigo but his heart belongs to Aizen-sama, let him go."

Grimmjow's electric blues grew dim "Well now wait just a fuckin' minute-Kurosaki is a grown man if he really wants us to leave him be-we'll leave him be."

"That's right pet-ya want me to go I'll go," a grin that didn't quite meet Nnoitra's mismatched eyes "Got a party to get to anyway."

Ichigo felt torn. There had to be a way to wipe that out of place frowns off their faces.

'That reminds me!'

"Grimmjow remember when you asked me to go camping in the mountains with you?"

A grin "Like it was only yesterday brat."

"Nnoitra uh?"

"Yes pet?"

"Well call me crazy but I think I'd like to get to know you-as friends I mean."

"Friends-I don't really do the friend thing Ichi-pet."

"Good. More for me then."

"Now wait just a damn minute pussy cat I never said-

"QUIET! Since these two numbskulls can't go five 5 minutes with out going at it with each other I'll answer on behalf of them, Grimmjow and Nnoitra would love to go camping with you Ichi. Can Nel come too?"

It was weird hearing Neliel speak with out slurring and botching words-

She was grinning widely-almost glowing-

'What the hell did they put in that tea, King?'

'It was coffee.'

'Tea, coffee same damn thing.'

'Uh not really.'

Snickers 'Whatever ya say Ichi.'

'I think it might have been the cookies.'

Loud cackling 'Could be.'

()()

A short while later Ichigo stood alone in the living room.

Apparently Nnoitra hadn't just been joking and really did have a party to get to-according to Starrk, Nnoitra had rented out a hotel suite all the way on the other side of town and since Grimmjow apparently couldn't stomach the idea of Ichigo getting cozy with a bastard like Aizen-the blue-haired male followed Nnoitra across town-Starrk, Halibel, Nel and children were on their way to Nemu's home.

Ichigo felt a little guilty but at the same time it wasn't like he planned any of this.

As for Ulquiorra? Seemed the green-eyed male had arrangements with a client-whatever the hell that meant.

()

Ichigo knew he was acting kind of-okay more like above and beyond ridiculous but at the same time he had a right to be nervous.

Instead of breaking things off with his not-quite-lover like a grown man-he had acted liked a child, told lies, shouted obscenities and threw his phone across the room.

Really, Ichigo wouldn't be surprised if the man lost all interest in him though from what Gin and Tousen and everyone else said, this was not likely.

Taking one last look around the heavily decorated living room-Ichigo really hoped half of those presents weren't meant for him-hoped Gin had been joking.

'And if he wasn't?'

'Well I'll send them back or give them to someone who needs them,'

'Uh huh so are ya gonna head up the staircase now or continue to stand here all night Ichi?'

Ichigo realized if he were wearing the shiny red nose, the man wouldn't take him seriously so he discarded the stupid thing in the trash.

()()

As Ichigo walked down he long never ending hallway he was briefly reminded of his warped fantasys-only this time Kenpachi!Giant wasn't not hot on his heels bellowing out 'Fe Fi Fo or whatever-

The orange haired youth shook his head.

He was determined to stay in the here and now and not let his mind drift.

()

(Aizen)

Aizen Sousuke was not the type of man who needed an equal companion in order to feel better about himself-this is what he had believed up until just recently-

He was a man who just happened to trip and fall into the land of love and experience the sort of feelings that he hadn't thought possible for a man like him-Understandably Aizen was quite irritated when he discovered that this "true love" thing was not something he could smooth talk or gamble his way out of.

Very little flew over his naturally wrinkle and blemish free head and he was actually rather impressed with his faithful subordinates-Gin and Kaname had been able to pull off a plan that Aizen himself had no knowledge of up until a few short hours ago.

In the end the truth always came out.

It was rather clever but he expected no less of his most loyal companions. Gin had always loved to play games and even Kaname had a secret (not secret to Sousuke of course) fondness for good-natured pranks on occasion.

Aizen was not an easy man to manipulate-so naturally he had to give credit where credit was do.

Taking over the mind of a college student was not an easy task-even more so with a boy like Ichigo-kun-not that Sousuke would admit it out loud (only in the privacy of his own thoughts) but the youth had proved to be particularly difficult-if Aizen wasn't a proud master of mind control and persuasion well…it was best not to think of never having convinced the boy to sit up front with him-

Ichigo-kun had a stubborn will all on his own-combine that with raging hormones and a mistress of mind manipulation hidden in the shadows-it was a miracle the boy's mind hadn't shattered.

Aizen did not think much of Unohana Retsu but there was no denying the scale of intelligence that could rival his own.

There was still one thing he wasn't quite sure on-why was he selected?

Of all the older men and women in Karakura town the woman could have set the boy up with why did she choose him?

Aizen hated not having answers to his questions but he supposed he could live without all the answers so long as he had his strawberry queen at his side.

()()

Kurosaki Masaki had not been far off in her assumptions-Sousuke did in fact desire to possess the boy wholly and completely.

He wanted to leave his mark on Ichigo-kun's soft skin-not with a knife or flame-nor with teeth, nails, whips, chains or collars.

Aizen held up the small coral pink colored vial-twirling it in his hand-

The man who had succeeded where all others had failed Kurotsuchi Mayuri, had agreed to give him what many doctors/scientists were currently calling 'Miracle Cradle' formula-it had arrived in a tiny brown box earlier this afternoon.

Mayuri had been very clear on what would happen if the formula was misused or not properly injected or swallowed-in short both its victim and the one who gave it to the victim would suffer the consequences.

Aizen had heard the stories-had witnessed what the man could be like if his warnings fell on deaf ears-Mayuri could be down right villainous if angered.

Not that Sousuke was so foolish as to abuse the sensitive formula in the first place and in truth he had felt rather insulted that Mayuri had even dared to compare him to an average man.

Placing the vial back into his pocket Aizen prepared for the boy's arrival-he had known (despite having sound proof bedroom walls that Ichigo-kun had arrived a little over an hour ago-he let Gin, Kaname and his children believe that the little sleeping powder which had been sprinkled in his tea affected him-knocking him out almost instantly.

A smirk found its way on to his face-any minute-any minute now the boy would turn the knob to his bedroom door-most likely it had been Ulquiorra or Starrk's suggestion.

He would have to find a way to thank two of his most obedient children.

'Tomorrow, tomorrow I will-tonight is all about the boy, tonight is all about Ichigo-kun.'

()()

(Ichigo)

When Ichigo turned the knob on the door and stepped into the room he wished he hadn't.

Mirrors. Mirrors. The entire room was filled with mirrors-the colorful garland and sparkling lights did not make the mirrors any more appealing to the orange haired youth.

Was this some kind of cruel joke?

Gin and Tousen-san were grown man did they honestly think it was fun to mess with him in this manner?

"Do not focus on the mirrors Ichigo-kun, shut the door and come to me."

With all the damn mirrors nearly sending the orange berry into another spiral trip in the past he hadn't even noticed the man standing by the window until that rich and smooth baritone reached his ears.

Sousuke was dressed in a-not-so simple button down red shirt made out of silk-the fine fabric showcased the man's sexy shoulders-and the dark slacks showcased the man's high and firm rear end.

"Ichigo-kun I know you heard me just now."

Ichigo swallowed and found it difficult to meet the man's gaze.

'It's like even though I want to be stubborn he's my commander and I have no choice but to do what he says.'

'Commander, heh 'spose it fits but really King stop actin' like a lil bitch and jus' walk over to Sousuke-sama.'

'Yeah, yeah I'm going I'm going.'

()()

Less than a foot away from the man and Ichigo was suddenly finding it a challenge to breathe normally-did that mirror just move?

No. No it wasn't possible. It was all in his head. Whatever was in the coffee or the cookies was-

Ichigo shut his eyes tightly. He would not pass out-not here-not now-he wouldn't-he couldn't-he would not let this night go to waste!

He would ignore the mirrors as best he could tonight and then in the morning he'd demand that Sousuke throw them in the nearest dumpster.

()()

Warmth-warmth engulfed Ichigo and he noted that it was not the same kind of warmth that Kenpachi had supplied when the man held him many times-there was something about this warmth-this warmth radiating off of Sousuke-it set not only Ichigo's body but all of his senses a blaze.

Sousuke was everywhere. In his mind-in his heart-beneath his skin-in the reflection of the many mirrors when Ichigo dared to look

"Ichigo-kun."

Ah that baritone-the baritone which could never be replicated or replaced-

()()

To an outsider or even as casual observer (not that there was a great deal of difference between the two) it probably looked like a simple hug or strong embrace but it was so much more than that.

In Sousuke's arms-here and now-there was no other place the orange haired youth would rather be.

()()

The man did not rip or tug at Ichigo's unruly locks of orange colored hair, the man did not nip and prick his skin with perfect teeth tearing into his tender flesh as though he were some delicious holiday snack meant for sampling.

()

Fingers traced and mapped out his face-lingering on his cheekbones before moving downward to slight dip of his chin, titling it upward-Sousuke was daring Ichigo to protest but the youth didn't have the energy to-not when those hypnotic deep brown eyes caught his slightly drunk cinnamon and coffee gaze once more-he couldn't resist if he tried.

Any questions, concerns, apologizes could wait until morning.

Despite what his slightly feminine hips might say-despite what his sometimes overly emotional nature might suggest Ichigo was a man-a man who was turning flushed and dizzy under another man's practiced touch.

Willing himself to forget the mirrors all together-telling himself to forget about the possibility that Sousuke might in fact be in his mind again-playing around in there-Ichigo was determined to live and enjoy the moment.

He was determined to show and prove to Sousuke that tonight would not be a replay of the afternoon they had spent together.

Reaching up on his tip toes in order to pull the man down and mesh their mouths together Ichigo barely noticed the sudden ripping noise until he felt the second breeze of the night go up his backside.

()()

The hands on his behind were warm and finger tips were feather light-seemed almost as if Sousuke were tracing fine patterns or designs into Ichigo's sensitive flesh. The youth moved his body closer wishing-desiring to feel more!

'Spacin' out King? A snicker At this rate ya are never gonna become Sousuke-sama's bride.'

'But I didn't I mean he was-we were-and I could swear-it felt so-

'Real?' Snicker 'I'm tellin' ya Ichi the silver fox spiked your coffee or somethin'

'But why?'

Ichigo couldn't decide if he was more irritated by the fact that Gin and possibly Lilinette had drugged him or if he was more irritated by the fact that he hadn't yet reached Sosuuke's room-hadn't yet let the man embrace him once more.

Arggggg…with an angry stomp Ichigo set off down the next corridor-digging teeth into his bottom lip-determined to stay alert.

())()

"Do not hover outside the door Ichigo-kun I do believe we are well past the stage of being hesitant aren't we?"

Ichigo pinched himself-just to make sure his mind hadn't drifted again.

Even in flat boots the youth wobbled slightly-only this man-only Sousuke had the ability to make him feel so unbalanced-so unsure of himself-so…

He stepped inside and let out a sigh he hadn't even know he'd been holding-seemed the room was void off mirrors all but the one by the walk-in-closet which could easily be ignored.

Ichigo walked towards Sosuuke and noted that the man was not dressed in a shirt and slacks but a fluffy red bath robe which was very similar to the one the man had worn and then let him wear that one afternoon.

As per usual not a single hair (barring the single curl that was always meant to be there) was out of place on Sousuke's head.

His face was as aristocratic as ever and the man's eyes-no matter how many times-the effect they had on the youth did not change-those eyes captured Ichigo-wrapped around his entire being-making him wobble even more.

It was rather difficult to pinpoint the man's body language but those eyes-

"Tomorrow."

Ichigo blinked "Er? Huh? What?"

"Tomorrow we will talk. As for tonight,"

A smirk, which could not quite be defined as lecherous found its way on to Sousuke's face, "Tonight I wish for you to give me my present, Ichigo-kun."

Present?

"I'm sorry I don't have one I mean uh I didn't expect to be seeing you again, Sousuke."

'Somehow I don't think the man is talkin' bout the kinda present ya purchase and wrap Ichi.'

A dawning look of realization followed by a blush made its way on to Ichigo's face. "Oh! Er um-

"Do you object?"

"No. It's just um-

Shirosaki snickered most unhelpfully.

"I would like for you to discard any and all information you have learned during the course of a few short weeks time and just think about what you feel-concentrate on what your heart-what your soul tells you when I am in your presence.

I want you to think back on the night we met-whether it was by hands of fate-the grace of the gods or childish games of a woman who never quite learned how to grow up-none of it should matter!

You are not some mindless doll or convenient concubine created and brought to me solely for my pleasure alone.

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."

Ichigo couldn't help but grin-although he didn't care much for the man's long-winded speeches at least now he could see and understand that Sosuike did not just look at him like some pretty prize or possession.

"Step forward Ichigo-kun, let me get a better look at this enticing little number you wore for me tonight."

Forcing the blush back down Ichigo let out a snort "Dressing up as reindeer is nothing special. My old man just enjoys humiliating the hell out of me-always forgetting that I really don't give two shits what any one thinks…well for the most part anyway," he amended after a moments pause.

"I beg to differ," dark eyes glittered "spin for me."

The man couldn't be serious could he? He didn't really expect Ichigo to model the stupid costume did he?

"Uh Sousuke I'd really rather-waa!"

Ichigo let out a surprised yelp as he was lifted off his feet and tossed on to the bed.

()()

(Aizen)

With Ichigo-kun now effectively pinned beneath his body-Sousuke took the opportunity to properly look at his cute little reindeer.

He almost wished the antlers were real as he let one of his hands brush the felt-like material.

"I've never imagined having a hybrid in my bed until this moment."

The boy glared up at him. "It's not like their real antlers, asshole-it's a fuckin' headband."

Sousuke gave the youth a slight tap on the nose as if scolding an animal "It is whatever I wish it to be on this night Ichigo-kun, now hush and let me finish my exploration."

The rest of the costume looked and felt like a combination of cotton and polyester-clinging and hugging the boys' lithe and beautiful frame like a second skin-a thin material-easy to rip but first

"I'm beginning to suspect that you do not like it when another touches your hands for this is the third time you've warm gloves indoors." At these words Sousuke removed the offending fabric and now held the boys' slighter smaller hands in his own before bringing the fingertips up to his lips, bathing the digits with his tongue.

When the boy made a move to retract his hand the man scolded the youth by breaking the skin with his teeth-just a pinprick-a minor flesh wound which would be gone in a day-two tops.

The combination of Ichigo-kun's moaning and wincing only provoked Sousuke to 'torture' the youth even more.

()()

(Ichigo)

Ichigo tried to forget about the mirror-he had almost succeeded up until he noticed another one (this one was long enough to cover one whole half of the ceiling)

"Why do you have so many damn mirrors in your bedroom?"

Sousuke's lips were on Ichigo's neck-the man's smooth baritone turned into mumbled answer of "I told you to forget about the mirrors and just concentrate on us."

"I'm trying but damn it I ahh!"

The man ignored his protests and created a long trail of teeth and tongue along Ichigo's neck-paying careful attention to his collarbone (When had the man ripped his costume?)

Suddenly Ichigo discovers that not only is his collarbone but his chest as well is now exposed-he arched his back and let out a whimper followed by a low moan of pleasure as Sousuke captured one of his peach nubs between his teeth. The man put just enough pressure on the bite to make it sting but not puncture and then soothed it over with his tongue.

"I do not wish to bind you to the bed on our first real night together but I can not properly taste you if you continue to squirm, Ichigo-kun."

Ichigo felt annoyed "How the hell can you expect me to just lie here like a ahhh ngh ahhh gahh-!"

This time a ripping noise did reach his ears-while lips, tongue and teeth continued their slow torturous dance on his chest-hands rubbed along his hips and stomach.

WTF?

Ichigo didn't like this sensation at all-it felt weird-he didn't want his belly rubbed-he wasn't a freakin' animal-

"Damn it Sousuke, stop!"

The youths' protests fell on deaf ears as the man began to rip at the bottom half of his costume-

Ichigo went stiff-shit he couldn't let-

'What have we here?"

Sousuke pulled his mouth away from Ichigo's skin and sat up.

Ichigo already flushed started to flush even more when those rich browns bored into him as hands brushed the tip of his half erect organ through the thin fabric-Ichigo tried to push the larger hands away-he'd forgotten all about the leather thong that Rukia had forced him to wear-Sousuke wasn't supposed to-no one was supposed to-

Unlike the orange haired youth's typical briefs this stupid thong barely covered a damn thing-not that the man hadn't already seem him naked before (for he had) but that wasn't the damn-

"Gah ngh no!"

"Leather suits you well Ichigo-kun." A brief pause and then "Sit up a little for me and pull the costume the rest of the way off I wish to see what else you have brought for me this year."

Not quite against his will even though he was still rather embarrassed Ichigo obeyed Sousuke's command.

()()

(Aizen)

Sexier than any private escort, underwear model or porn star-it was just another reminder to Sousuke-he would never tire of his Ichigo-kun's sinful little body. He hadn't considered dressing the youth in leather but now-

"Turn around slowly."

The boy complied even though the flush and the glare never left his face.

Seeing the boys' perfect posterior encased in the tiny little leather thong-loving how the material was riding low on his shapely hips-

"Bend for me."

The boys' body went stiff once more-the muscles in his back tightening like a rod-tiny goose bumps breaking out onto his flushed peach toned skin-

"Ichigo-kun must I repeat my self?"

The boy looked over his shoulder in order to glare at Sousuke "I'm not going give my virginity to you unless I can see your face."

Sousuke chuckled lightly and then embraced the youth-let his weight press onto the youth's back-giving his future strawberry bride no other option but to bend.

He was not satisfied until the boys' face was pressed against the bed while his lovely buttocks kissed his own clothed hard on.

Sousuke ignored Ichigo's hissing and snarling and sat back to admire the view for a few minutes.

Then reached for the coral pink colored vial in the pocket of his robe.

"Very nice."

Using the heel of his foot-the man pressed against the crease of the boys' ass-

"Spread your legs for me."

The boy did not comply but whirled around and glared more fiercely "You bastard I said I wasn't going to let you f-what's that?"

Sousuke twirled the vial in between his fingers "It will help you relax."

"Fuck relaxing!" The youth snarled out "If you're going to fuck me-

"Make love," Sousuke corrected.

The blush returned to the youths' face ten fold. His voice softened a little, orange lashes shielding expressive eyes from view "If you embrace me on this night, then I want to do it face to face."

A smirk "You say it as though you only intend to go one round with me Ichigo-kun."

"I-gah-st-stop doing that!"

"Doing what? I am sitting here perfectly calm, waiting for you to settle down like a good little deer and accept this as the first of many tokens of love. Now remove your underwear and-

"Listen here you-" the boy trailed off-more pouting now rather than glaring at him-he eyed the vial suspiciously "Is that some kind of lubricant or something?"

'That is one way this can be used, yes."

Orange brows furrowed as though the youth was sorting through his thoughts. "What else does it do then? It's not going turn me into some kind of sex-slut from one of those trashy novels or something is it? I mean uh you're not going to ask me to call you master of all masters at the end of the night are you?"

"Hmm."

"Hmm? What the fuck does hmm mean? No secrets Sousuke, tell me what the fuck that hmm was about just now. I mean I'm sitting here practically naked in front of you while you continue to sit there in ya damn bathrobe-selfish bastard I wanna play too-maybe I'd like to ogle ya-maybe I wanna taste of ya sexy shoulders-maybe I wanna bring ya to the great white paradise-ya said ya liked the way my mouth felt on ya cock before didn't ya? So come on before ya go turnin' me into some love sick fool let me show ya what I can do."

"Hmm, your eyes, their gold again. Tell me Ichigo-kun, is that normal?"

"What ya talkin' bout Sousuke I ain't-hey hey what are ya-?"

Sousuke advanced on the boy (not that there was a great deal of distance between them to begin with) capturing the youth's face in his hands once again and tilting the chin up ward in order to get a better look.

Hmm. It wasn't logical at least not by his knowledge but it seemed-could it be another persona truly lurked inside his strawberry queen? "How very interesting," he released his hold on the youth's chin. "What do I call you?"

A grin-a grin not quite belonging stretched across Ichigo-kun's face. "Let's just say Sousuke-sama that I'm the one-the only one who can get King to do what ya want em' to do-I'm the only one who can see to it that he's nice and prepped for entry-ya wish to send him to the great white paradise-fill em' with ya seed-ya want him to fall completely in love with ya right?"

There was no point to lie when Ichigo-kun was still technically there "I do."

A cheeky grin "Then toss me the happy lube and let's get this party started Sou-sama!"

()()

(Ichigo)

Ichigo hadn't meant to let his hollow out to play but it seemed easier. With Shirosaki working as a temporary distraction, the orange berry could gather his wits about him and relax.

But as always this proved to be a foolish choice

'Shirosaki knock it the fuck off now!'

'Ah but King ya have to let me play a lil more.'

'The hell I do! Now shut up and just stand by until I need you again,'

'Ya never let me have any real fun.'

'Oh would you stop with your damn whining-you feel what I feel and if anyone is going to touching by body-preparing my body for Sousuke, it's going to be me.'

'Heh, just don't pass out when ya reach the sphincter.'

()()

(Aizen)

Gold eyes faded back to brown.

The boy held the vile in his hands-twirling it and then stopped to study it-orange brows furrowed as the youth struggled to find some sort of opening.

Of course Sousuke had no intention of telling Ichigo-kun how to open the vial. He was far too amused.

"How the hell am I supposed to apply or insert anything when this damn bottle won't even open?"

"Because you won't be applying or inserting it-I will."

"Y-you!"

"Yes, me. Really Ichigo-kun did you honestly think I was going to let you do whatever you wish here in my bedroom in my home?" A chuckle "You have much to learn-now crawl to me let me wipe away the pout from those sweet lips of yours."

"Bastard!" Ichigo growled and then crawled to the man "You're lucky you're good at kissing or else I'd-

Dark eyes glittered "Just good you say? Well that is something I must correct right now. Calling my kisses good or satisfactory will never do."

()()

(Gin)

"I sure hope Ichi-chan is havin' a good time."

"I can't imagine why he wouldn't-now will you be having the crab or lobster Gin?"

Gin had quickly discovered that eating was always a must if he was going to be in a serious relationship with a man like Kaname and not that the silver-fox had any objections to this-but he'd really rather just skip the main course and head straight to the dessert-he had a not-quite-so secret sweet tooth and his dark-skinned lover looked positively delicious right now.

Along with purple and orange, gold was Kaname's color-he looked a bit like royalty especially as he sipped his wine.

"Think we should drop by the mansion in the morning and officially welcome 'im to the family?"

()()

(Ichigo)

Masturbating in front of the mirror.

'Well this is certainly a new way to confront ya fears eh Ichi-King?'

Oh yes he would definitely demand an explanation from Sousuke in the morning but for now he would just shut his eyes and try to get lost in self-pleasure.

But truthfully he had no one but himself to blame-served him right for making a deal with the man.

Sousuke would sit on the bed with his robe open and his underwear off (the youth refused to continue when the other man hadn't even removed his clothes-not that he had much on to begin with-but that wasn't the point) while Ichigo touched himself in front of the mirror.

When orange berry demanded to know 'Why the hell are you so insistent on watching me jerk off anyway-you some kind of voyeur Sousuke?'

The man's response had been 'There will be some days and nights where I will approach you and expect you to stop whatever it is you are doing and- a smirk "I'm sure you can fill in the blanks, Ichigo-kun."

'Bastard you really do want me to just be some modern whipping boy at your service when its all said and done is that it?'

Sousuke chuckled, untied his robe and sat back on the bed.

If it wasn't a sight Ichigo had seen once before he'd probably have drool dripping down his face-

On shaky legs the orange-haired youth made his way over to the mirror-he could almost swear that there was a face laughing at him-quickly shaking his head to banish an image that wasn't really there and focus on his task.

So Ichigo slipped his hands underneath the ridiculously thin waist band and pulled the thong down-secretly vowing to never be caught dead in such an embarrassing undergarment again-he kicked the offensive item aside and kneeled-there was no way he was going to attempt this standing up.

()()

(Aizen)

Sousuke had every intention to keep his word right up until the moment when his little shy virgin strawberry queen once again displayed just how oh-so-flexible he could be.

There was artistry to the boys' solo performance

Rather than diving right for his dripping organ the boy caressed the side of his face-brushing over fine brows, a perfectly symmetric nose and kiss-bruised lips-hovering-tracing the outline for a few minutes-before moving past boyish cheekbones, jaw line and a love-bitten neck-

()(0

Using his right hand Ichigo-kun pinched his peach colored nipples-alternating back and forth between each one-rolling the sensitive nubs until they hardened into pebbles-or perhaps a more accurate description would be candy-while his left hand moved on down to well defined abs and ahh yes that was where he needed to go-

Oh? Well then so Ichigo-kun wasn't going to go there just yet-he was going to neglect his dripping hard-on in favor of moving on to healthy semi-swollen (in truth the boy looked like he might burst any moment) ball sac (which the man would bet was just as smooth as it looked)

No-that wasn't quite the youth's goal either-he was aiming for something else-because after a few squeezes he moved his hands away entirely and then-

Sousuke had been with his fair share of talented/creative lovers but none were quite as-he thought such an act/skill could only be achieved by-

A raised brow-no it couldn't Ichigo wasn't really going to-

Yes he was!

A light pink colored tongue touched-flicked-tasted the very tip of a swollen penis-as if to show the man that it hadn't just been an illusion the boy performed the trick again-this time swirling his tongue around-as if he were enjoying a self made lollipop

And as Sousuke watched this he came very close to shooting off a load but of course he was no amateur and so he managed to get a hold on himself even as his eyes blazed with hot barely restrained desire-his smooth baritone dropping another octave as he commanded that the boy

"Stop what you're doing and turn and face me."

()()

(Ichigo)

Sneaky little bastard his 'hollow' was-

Ichigo was red faced and on the verge of exploding all over the damn mirror, the rich carpeting and himself and Sousuke demanded that he turn around and face front-was the man fucking joking he couldn't face him now-not after-

'Come on Ichi Sousuke-sama sounds so turned on-how could ya possibly deny-

'Shut up-you how did-when did-

A cackle 'Member years back when we chat-chatted on the train and I told ya that Zan could remember the past lives he lived?'

Ichigo did not like where this was heading. Not in the least.

'What are you going to tell me you were a whore-meaning I was a whore in a past life Shirosaki?'

'Heh, not 'xactly but ya see King when ya spend some time in a circus or two-

'Okay enough! I don't-never mind just help me get my damn body under control. I mean I don't want to like ejaculate in his face or something.'

A cackle 'Well why not-could be f-

'NO!'

'Aww come Ichi ya are no f-

'You already had your fun you kinky little.'

'Why thank you-I'll be here 4 nights outta the week-specially when its times to bring out the leather ball and chain ooh and-

'Not hearing this I am not hearing this.'

()()

Well at least Sousuke was enough of a gentleman to carry Ichigo back to the bed rather than just mount him right in front of the mirror like a fucking horse at the county fair.

The orange haired youth shivered at the image and the bastard of a man who he might one day just agree to move in with (among other things) took it as a sign to slip his first finger towards the crease of his ass.

Ichigo willed himself not to tense up-he'd heard/read that it would only make it worse.

()()

(Aizen)

The boys perfectly peach puckered bottom was practically crying out for his skilled and practiced touched. Sousuke had no desire to disappoint or prolong things-following his gentle yet firm command Ichigo-kun spread his legs wide and waited for further instruction-

The man fully intended on putting the boys unrivaled flexibility to good use-pining the legs back behind his head-ignoring the youth's slight groan-he did not stop until the boys freshly polished toes reached the curved bed frame.

"Comfortable Ichigo-kun?"

"You fucking asshole this position doesn't even make any damn-you're deranged-I'm not letting you-

"Hush, you know you like it," with these words man pressed the pad of his thumb against the rosy hole marveling at its beauty before continuing with "Say you want more."

"Only in your dreams o-hhh oh g-!"

()()

(Rukia)

Rukia was trashed to the point where she could barely stand up with out someone standing right next to her-

"Alright who wants to open the next present?" she asked in a slurred yet uber giddy sounding voice "Nii-sama how bout you?"

Byakuya did not answer. The man didn't even act as though he had registered her question-seemed far more interested in sherry wine-hell he had barely even raised a brow when Shuhei paraded around the grand living room in Rukia's old cheerleading uniform.

The raven-haired girl would admit (only under the influence of course) that Shuhei looked better in the tiny skirt then she ever had.

Not receiving an answer Rukia kicked off her black heels and stumbled towards her brother.

()()

"Nii-sama what's wrong? This isn't like you."

"…"

"Please talk to me Byakuya nii-sama."

Perhaps it was the liquor the Christmas lights playing with her but Rukia could swear the older male was-

"Nii-sama are you pouting?"

Rukia couldn't help herself the very idea was hysterically funny.

A moment later she burst into laughter. He reminded her of a 8 year old boy rather than a grown man.

"Rukia, stop laughing at once."

After his lecture the man went back to pouting.

Rukia studied his form-slouching-her Byakuya-nii-sama was slouching what on earth?

"He said he'd be here."

Rukia furrowed her waxed brows "Who Nii-sama?"

"Kuro-Ichigo, my Ichigo, he promised he'd be here."

"Uh Nii-sama you're in love with and practically married to Shuhei what do you mean-

"HE'S MINE!" Eyes unfocused and blazing with a swirl of emotions which were difficult to define Byakuya gripped her shoulders just then "Bring him to me-only then will this night mean anything!"

Rukia sat down on the arm of the chair and patted the man lightly "There, there Nii-sama you've just had a little bit too much to drink. Wait here I'll grab Shuhei and-

"No! Ichigo I want Ichigo-give him to me Rukia-NOW!"

()()

(Ichigo)

Oh come on!

Did I really black out again?

'Not quite King-more like ya had a brief intermission-'

'Intermission?'

Someone was tapping Ichigo's check-a warm soft hand

"Sousuke?"

"I apologize for not giving you a warning Ichigo-kun but the hardest step is over now."

Ichigo wasn't quite sure what the man was referring too until he felt fingers moving in and out of his now dripping hole-it was a bit of an odd and rather filling sensation but not unpleasant-the fingers were soft yet firm-

"Y-you were fingering my ass while I was unconscious?"

Lips were at the orange haired youth's ear "You have to understand that preparation is everything. Your body is naturally strung tight and without proper-

Blushing crimson Ichigo demanded that the man shut the hell up-well sort of "I get it you don't have to-gah just-ahh (what the hell was that just now-right at the moment when the man's middle finger curled Ichigo felt-

"Deeper!"

"Deeper you say?"

As if it was a fucking question. This man was such an infuriating

"Ngh oooh oh-!

"I do believe the words you are looking for are Sousuke-sama but since neither you nor I are dressed as Egyptians on this evening, Sousuke will do just fine."

This bastard he really just-

"Damn it Sousuke quit f- The foul word died on Ichigo's lips as the man complied and pushed in deeper only to stop again a moment laughter, a evil chuckle slipping past his lips-

"What would you like for Christmas, Ichigo-kun?"

"Your over-inflated head on an ice pick would be a nice start."

The youth earned a well-deserved smack on the ass for that one-causing him to yelp and shoot white sticky cum onto the pillow.

"Naughty boy's get coal in their stockings for Christmas but since you're no ordinary boy Ichigo-kun, Sousuke-sama will just get you the stockings-in a fine rich wine color of red with tiny black-no white ribbons and then for New Years hmm now let me see-

Shirosaki's familiar cackling sounded 'Ya want to have ya cake and eat it too-push back on his fingers any plans Sou-sama might have to humiliate ya further will die on lips the moment ya lil' bud closes in around his fingers like a damn suction cup-nah better than that'

'Shiros-

'Do what I tell ya for once King!'

()()

(Aizen)

He hadn't been entirely truthful prepping Ichigo-kun wasn't the only thing Sousuke had done while the youth had been knocked out unconscious.

It was the opportune moment to act-to open the vial and slip the liquid inside the boy's body.

The cradle serum according to Mayuri had a slight burning sensation as it worked its way in and stretched the anal wall for entry-moving into the bloodstream where it would temporarily trick the mind into believing that the body belonged to a female.

It was a rather complex process and if Sousuke had been a man of lesser intelligence he never would have been able to pull it off-

()()

Sousuke was brought back to the current moment as he felt his strawberry queen squirming around-seemed the boy was growing rather impatient

It seemed Ichigo-kun was determined to take what he wanted rather than beg for it-a smirk found its way onto Sousuke's lips as he encouraged the boy "That's it! Show me how much you want me. Show me how much your body aches for something other than my fingers-let your self get lost in the mind numbing pleasure and heat-let go."

()()

(Ichigo)

It was the man's voice-every time that voice was the trigger for Ichigo's explosive orgams-he realized Sousuke was the kind of man who would probably bring him to the great white paraside and back even after Ichigo no longer had any energy to move, to cry out, to plea/demand "More"

'Let me give you a quick tip King.'

'Fine. What is it?'

'Squeeze the base of ya cock until ya wince-by doin' this you'll distract ya self from the initial pain of being entered.'

'You said if I was with a skilled lover like Sousuke I wouldn't have to worry about feeling any pain.'

'Well ya have to see the thing is-even with a skilled lover there's no way to avoid pain entirely King-don't believe what the fairy tales tell ya-its only natural-grit ya teeth and bare it!'

"Ichigo-kun."

His name. Just his name spilling from those perfect lips in that hypnotic smooth baritone was enough to end Ichigo spiraling over into the great white paradise-happening almost lightening fast that his curse of 'fuckin' hell son of a bitch that hurts take it out' turned to high pitched moans and incoherent babbles.

()()

THE REAL EPILOGUE

Some years later…

Ichigo never cared for spring much.

It rained too damn much in his opinion and in addition it also happened to be the time when his body was highly sensitive-of course there was only one man he could pin the blame on-and that man just happened to be his lover who was currently asleep in their shared bed.

The orange berry let out a snort. 'Sure bastard you sleep the day away while I do all the damn work.'

There was a light tapping sound pulling Ichigo from his thoughts and over to the doorway entrance

"Knock, knock."

It was Halibel looking a lot like Ichigo felt-happy but worn out.

The blonde was letting her hair grow out and had recently traded in her beloved scarf for seashell and bottle-cap necklaces and she had since abandoned her exhibitionist ways in favor of brightly colored blazers and skirts. Motherhood had done the blonde a world of good.

"Are the girls ready?"

Cinnamon and coffee brown eyes fell on the bed-smiling fondly at the two small forms curled on either side of his lazy lover. Of course this wasn't entirely true-Sousuke was every bit the business tycoon he had always been-the man had simply taken the week off and instead of helping Ichigo out around the mansion and with their children as he promised the man developed sleeping pattern which could rival Starrks.

Ichigo turned back to Halibel "I don't want to wake them until everyone else has arrived." He stood up "I'm actually about to head into the nursery and check on Takuji, you can join me if you like."

()()

Ichigo loved all of his children-more than his own life but especially with his son he felt an extra special kind of connection-course he reasoned in his own private thoughts that the reason for this might be to do the fact that he had actually consented to being a 'mother' for the second time around in his young life-unlike the first time when he been tricked into becoming one-

The tiny babe of 18 months with a small tuft of bright orange hair opened bright lilac colored eyes-it was almost like he sensed that Ichigo had entered room.

A soft smile came over the orange haired males' face as he lifted the boy out of his crib.

"It always amazes me how he looks so much like you and father at the same time-I mean as brilliant a man is Mayuri is and as crafty my Nemu can be they've both told me more than once that there's a only 5 percent chance that the child will come out looking like both its parents-and yet you Kurosaki-you have done it twice."

Ichigo didn't bother correcting and pointing out that his son had inherited Sousuke's mother's eyes and that it was their twin girls that looked more like the man-Halibel was forever and always going to be set in her ways.

()()

Sousuke knew Ichigo wasn't happy with him at the moment but his strawberry queen could never stay mad at him for long-he'd get over it.

"Uh oh Otousan has that look on his face again, you know what that means right Kako?"

"Mm hmm I sure do Koume it means Touchan is going to be very grumpy tomorrow morning."

The shorter of the non-fraternal twin girls looked thoughtful for a moment as she furrowed orange brows "But Touchan is grumpy every morning."

The man couldn't help but chuckle-it sometimes astounded him even now how very perceptive his daughters' were-and frightened him at the same time. They were only 7 and it already seemed like they were growing up much too fast.

"Kako, Koume you know it is impolite to gossip when your father is right in the room with you."

The two girls jumped at his soft reprimand and bowed their heads "We're sorry."

But of course Sousuke wasn't really mad. And after a moment he smiled at duo and let Kako climb up on his shoulders while Koume sat in his lap-in another year they would be too old (perhaps they were already too old) but admitting this would mean the man himself would have to admit that he was getting older and that would just not do-specially with his 36th birthday practically right around the corner.

"Why are you frowning Otousan?"

"There's no need to be sad."

"I'm not sad."

And he wasn't-he still had his looks-his heath-his business-his loyal subordinates-his children-and his strawberry queen-really what more could he ask for?

()(0

A family photo was anything but traditional or simple because things were never traditional or simple in Ichigo's life. After all his definition for the word "family" went far beyond his mother, goat face, Karin, Yuzu, Sosusuke and their own children.

The orange berry considered all of his friends to be family and although he knew how much it irritated the crap out of Nnoitra and Grimmjow to refer to them as family members when they were still almost painfully obsessed with him-by definition since Sousuke had adopted them they were family as well.

It was uber bizarre situation-ten times more than any cheese-o-rific sitcom found on American television but it worked.

"Alright everyone huddle in closely-we don't want to miss any of your smiling faces now do we?"

A series of flashes went off on the camera before the ridiculously large group split and went off in different directions of the wide garden.

Hinamori had given up her attempts to kill him and every one else in her path and now focused her energy on being a part-time photographer. No one was really sure what else the brown-eyed girl did in her spare time and no one really cared-much.

Ichigo hadn't missed the rather sharp looking spork hiding underneath Hiyori's belt-secretly he was glad it was there just incase Hinamori decided to have a relapse and this time try to kill both him and his children.

He felt someone poke him in the forehead. It was Rukia and she was wearing a grin on her face "You really should stop glowering Ichigo or one day your face really will get stuck that way."

"Oh I don't know Ruki-chan I'd say the glower fits Kurosaki-kun just fine-after all you'd be grumpy too if a bunch of your guests were fighting over who gets to hold your baby."

"Thanks Inoue."

"Anytime."

Silver-blues twinkled "It's a good thing I never plan to have children then or else-

"I do not believe now is the time or the place for suck talk Rukia-san, now be a dear and watch Aina for me, I have a very important call to take and I can not miss it or else my father will have my head."

"We'll all watch her for you, Nemu."

The petite dark haired woman studied Ichigo for a moment-he wasn't quite sure he liked the subtle smirk that found its way on her face. "Very well that will be satisfactory."

When Nemu was out of sight Rukia pulled him down and whispered in his ear "Actually Ichigo I think it would be better if you looked for Aizen-san I think I saw him heading towards the kitchen."

"But A-

"We'll watch Aina-chan."

Inoue nodded in agreement. It was rather impressive how she tended to hear all of his conversations with Rukia even when it was said in a low whisper.

"We sure will Kurosaki-kun, now go on go on don't make Aizen-san wait."

Ichigo let out a sigh and then set off in the direction that he had seen his lover heading in-although why the man was going to the kitchen of all places was any one's guess.

()()

When Ichigo set foot inside the kitchen he found a note hanging above his head-it was short and simple-

I'm outside

Ichigo felt like rolling his eyes why would Sousuke go inside only to come back outside-unless the man was talking outside in front by the gates-

"Oi Ichi-pet get this slobbering little demon away from me already!"

The orange haired male turned and laughed at the sight of Nnoitra being covered in drool-Takuji had a wide grin on his little chubby face.

"I think he likes you Nnoitra."

The dark haired male scowled "The hell he does-look pet letting you drool on me is one thing but some brat the hell if I'm going to-

"Do you ever know when the hell to shut up Nnoitra?"

Just then Grimmjow came around the corner-the blue haired male seemed to have a better tolerance for children-both Kako and Koume were clinging to his legs and yet he didn't stumble in the least.

"How's it going Ichi-brat?"

Ichigo really didn't understand why even after all this time neither male could just call him by his damn name without adding some annoying term of endearment to it but he supposed it didn't harm any one so-

"Trying to steal my girls away from me Grimmjow?"

Grimmjow threw his head back and laughed. "Wouldn't dream of it brat-anyway you look like your headin' somewhere even though we just got here."

"Yeah pet why are ya leavin' when the fun hasn't even started yet."

Ichigo rolled his eyes. "Why do you two always have to-

"Grimmjow, Nnoitra leave Ichi alone or else you'll give Nels no other choice but to hurt you."

"Get out of here Neliel, we're just messin round."

"Yeah scat bitch-I just wanna have a moment or two with my pet."

Nel looked like she was torn "Itsugo?"

"It's fine Nel-uh can you-?

"Say no more Itsugo super-nana Nel is to the rescue."

()()

Ichigo didn't know whether he should laugh or glare at the scene that awaited him went he finally made his way out front.

There parked in the drive way was an all too familiar taxi cab and in the front seat-looking as aristocratic, sexy and arrogant as ever

"Really Sousuke I've heard of recreating memorable moments in a relationship but this a bit extreme don't you think?"

Sousuke's dark eyes glittered "Ah but this time around I'm not letting you leave the taxi."

()()

END.

NO FOR REAL THIS TIME. THE END THE END THE END

Well minus the alternate winners but this is the END END…YEAH.

THANK YOU FOR READING EVERYONE

~SLY~