Lush

Chapter Eight:

[Matsumoto]

One thing had changed that night. No, make that two. The first was that my haunting dream of my once distant lover, Gin, has ceased from my slumber. I was grateful.

And two, my dreams were replaced by Renji. Ever since he kissed my forehead that night, my mind has been strung up on him. I find myself watching him from a distant. I can't do that so much. It's already crazy enough that he feels like he has a duty to watch over me…

So, what's the matter with me? Why am I feeling this way? Why Renji? I know that it sounds like a stupid question. He's been really sweet to me ever since he had really gotten to know me. He's caring, strong, and he's honest. So, getting these feelings for him was something I should have suspected right from the very beginning. But I'm sure it's nothing but a petty crush. I mean, what girl would I NOT be if I weren't going to be the slightest bit of attracted to a good guy? Or better yet, a hero.

No, I'm standing here on guard duty, thinking about him. "Ughh, no! I have to stay focused!"

Thankfully, no one was around to hear me talking to myself.

"Ranigku."

Dammit. Just great.

I unconsciously, fixed my uniform as I watched the tall red haired figure walks towards me proudly.

"Renji. What are you doing here?"

He almost seemed too thrilled to see me. I didn't mind though. "I ran into Izuru and he told me that you would be here."

"Ha, well you found me." I joked, laughing too casually. Why am I so nervous? It's not like this is something new. Being around Renji was never a problem. And it can't be such an issue right now.

"Well, I only wanted to ask you something. I don't wanna bother you from your work."

"Hm? What is it?"

"If you're not busy tonight, we can open up a new bottle of sake—"

"Sure." I blurted out. He looks at me with a surprised expression at first but he laughs eventually.

I really need to clam down. It's just a drink. It's just Sake…

A/N: Huh. I know. Boring and short. Sorry, rough week already. Next chapter should be up pretty fast anyway. I like doing Renji's POV anyway :)