Lies Open Prison Doors
Chapter 3: I'm Sorry. Was That a Yes?
"Prisoner 156. You have a visitor."
"Huh…?" Ichigo looked up from his civil game of go fish that he'd been goaded into playing with Yumichika and Renji.
The sleepy guard he'd seen earlier this morning was standing—barely—by the open door of his cell.
The doors have been open for hours but he felt he'd done enough exploring today after his run-in with the Vasto Lordes and decided to stay in the cell.
"Visitor. Let's go." The guard said right after a rather long yawn.
Ichigo slowly stood to his feet and placed his cards face down on the floor, not that it really mattered if the others saw them. He then followed the guard down the different halls until they came to a caged in area. Another guard was waiting and instructed him to raise his arms and spread his legs shoulder length apart.
The guard then began patting him down. When he found Ichigo clear he opened the door to let him in.
Brown eyes blinked repeatedly when they found the familiar suit-clad figure of Byakuya Kuchiki.
If it weren't for the guards standing on either side of him, he would have ran up and hugged the shit out of the man.
"I rushed here as soon as I heard." Byakuya started first since Ichigo had yet to say anything. The orangette let a small smile crack across his face, softening his features if only a little and clearing the scowl from his forehead.
"You have no idea how glad I am to see you." Ichigo nearly choked, but then the scowl was back when a guard grabbed him and started maneuvering him to the table in the middle of the windowless room. Cuffs were then slapped on his wrists which were also attached to the chair.
"Are those really necessary?" Byakuya sighed with a scowl of his own. "He was only convicted with nonviolent crimes."
"Until yesterday." The guard Ichigo didn't recognize explained. He winced at the seething glare he received.
"What did you do?" The friend side of Byakuya's brain shoved the lawyer part to the side as emotions bubbled to the surface. Ichigo hadn't seen Byakuya this livid since the man caught him masturbating on his brand new suit.
That particular story is rather long and it was back when Ichigo was young and stupid so we'll skip it for now.
Ichigo stomped his foot in frustration and then leaned forward as far as he could across the table, metal cuffs clinking against the chair as he moved.
"Before you start lecturing me, how about you explain why the fuck I'm in a goddamn MAX prison—and for 5 YEARS!?" He kept his voice low so as not to startle the guards but the emphasis was there. "Oh and you'll never fucking guess who is also here."
Byakuya seemed to connect the dots quickly. There were only a handful of people that could really wind up Ichigo to this point, and from the way he said 'also'—it could only be one person.
"Grimmjow Jeagerjaques…"
Ichigo huffed with a nod as he collapsed back into the chair, making it screech against the cement floor.
"That's who I got in a fight with, okay?" Ichigo sunk lower at the disapproving look. "It caught me off guard—I wasn't expecting to see him here." Before Byakuya could chastise him, he continued, "Please tell me you know a way to transfer me to the other prison…" Ichigo was desperate at this point.
Byakuya lips pursed and he looked like he wanted to reprimand the orangette, but he reluctantly conceded. "That's why I'm here. I wanted to speak with you first, but I've already started the paperwork on your transfer."
"Thank youuu!" Ichigo practically sagged in relief, but then his body stiffened when Byakuya slapped his perfectly manicured hands against the table.
"Pay attention, Ichigo, because this is very important." When he had the man's full attention, he continued, "The paperwork to transfer from this prison is very particular… if you get even a single year added to your sentence while you're here, then there's nothing I can do."
Ichigo felt a small bubble of panic burst in his gut. So that was why Byakuya was so furious about the fight.
"But that…" Ichigo let his complaint die with a shake of his head. "How long is the process? How much time do I have to work with here? Cuz I've got people already sniffing me out."
He saw Byakuya's gaze shift to his neck and saw a small flash of anger before it was snuffed out. Ichigo tried to reach up and cover the cut out of reflex, but the handcuffs stopped him and so he just sagged in frustration while glaring down at the table. Byakuya let a sigh out through his nose and then readjusted his suit to help compose himself.
"The process could take a day—" Ichigo's face lit up with hope "or it could take up to a month." Andddd back to scowling.
"I need to get out as soon as possible though! Is there anything I can do to speed up the process?"
Byakuya rubbed his temple in thought as he settled down into the chair. "Hmm… Do you happen to know a man named Sousuke Aizen?"
It took him a moment to recall the creepy bespectacled counselor in question, but then again—how could he forget him?
"Yeah. He's a counselor here. I actually spoke to him about this the other day and he said he'd look into it."
Byakuya's interest peaked, "Did they have any hard copies on your sentence? Any written approval?"
Ichigo nodded, "Yeah. Some fishy paperwork with my signatures on it—but I know I never signed the damn things!" He slammed his fists down on the chair, but then relaxed when one of the guards cleared their throat expectantly.
"3 Minutes." The sleepy one called out.
Byakuya narrowed his eyes in frustration but then shook his head. "Alright. I sent Sousuke and a few other people your papers this morning. Just see if you can get that man to sign your transfer ASAP. If that doesn't work then your next bet would be to speak to the warden himself, but that might be a little more difficult."
"Okay, okay. I'll see what I can do." Ichigo nearly groaned but then he let a small smile crack the corner of his lips. "Thanks for your help…"
Byakuya frowned at that and huffed at him. "Of course." Ebony eyes took another glance down at the cut and Ichigo looked away. "But remember that I can't help you if you get any time added to your sentence. If that happens then this facility will have full claim over your file—do you understand?" Ichigo nodded but then jumped when Byakuya slammed his fist on the table once again. "I'm serious Ichigo. Set aside your pride and your frivolous rivalry."
"Alright, alright." Ichigo groaned. " I understand!"
"I hope so." Byakuya stood to his feet when the guards started making their way forward. "Because I will not be the one to tell Rukia why you won't be there for her Masters Graduation. Oh, and she expects a call from you before the end of the week."
Ichigo cracked another small smile and nodded. No further words were needed. He stayed silent as he was uncuffed and then shuffled back into the bowels of the prison. The sleepy guard kept a hold of Ichigo's elbow while the other guard stayed behind. Ichigo just let himself get steered through the halls until he was back to his own cell. He watched until the guard was through the double doors and out of sight.
"Sooo… how'd it go?" Yumichika was the first to snap Ichigo out of his thoughts and the orangette was surprised to find that his cards were right where he'd left them.
"Uhm…" Ichigo wasn't really sure what to say.
"Was it your fiancé?" Renji butted in from his spot on the bunk. Ichigo turned to see him making the huge breast motion again.
"Tch." Ichigo rolled his eyes, "No. It was my lawyer. And he had some good news… I guess."
"He get your paperwork figured out?" Yumichika assumed as he inspected his fingernails.
"Kind of… I just need to stay out of trouble until it gets sorted out." Ichigo confessed, but judging from the look Renji and Yumichika shared—he wasn't sure if he'd regret saying that.
Renji hopped off the bunk to stand in front of Ichigo with a giant grin on his face. "You should join the Shinigami then! We'll keep ya outta trouble—no prob!"
'We'...
"So you're both in that gang?" Ichigo asked and got a nod from them. He debated for a moment and then shook his head. "Honestly, I'd rather stay out of all that stuff."
Renji shrugged before settling down next to Yumi. "Your funeral then."
Ichigo scratched at his neck nervously, being careful not to break the scabbing cut.
"What? You know something I don't?" Ichigo huffed but Renji just shrugged again.
Yumichika pinched the redhead's arm, making him flinch.
"Don't be a jackass." The brunette then turned back to Ichigo, "Just steer clear of the Vasto Lordes for now and stay in eyesight of the guards. You shouldn't have any problems."
"Easier said than done." Renji shot back with a shrug.
Ichigo was about to say something but a buzz from the speaker sounded.
11:30 INMATES! It's lunchtime! However, because of a certain incident yesterday, we'll be calling one hall at a time. First to eat today is A Wing. Everyone else should be in their respective cells until they are called to eat. I repeat: A Wing, you can start making your way to the canteen. Thanks!
BLPP.
Ichigo peered out of his cell and winced at all the annoyed glares sent in his direction. He could only guess what 'incident' the announcer was referring to.
"Sorry guys." He mumbled but Renji just shrugged and Yumichika waved the apology off as he stood to his feet.
"Pah! Shit like this happens 'bout twice a month. I just' hope we ain't last to go this time." Renji hopped back onto his bunk and hung his head off the side, letting his long crimson locks cascade down.
"Why's that?" Ichigo asked, more out of boredom than anything.
"Cuz last people get the leftovers and I'm pretty hungry today."
"Why? You ain't done shit all day ya sack o' shit." All eyes turned to see White march into the cell. When his sharp gold eyes locked with Yumichika he immediately pointed to the open jail door.
"What's got your tidy-widdy's in a twist?" Yumichika smirked as he metaphorically poked the polar bear in the room.
White was unimpressed and continued to hold his finger up towards the exit. "Out," he all but commanded.
Yumi rolled his prominently outlined eyes with a huff. "Seems I've worn out my welcome. I'll see you later~" He gave Ichigo a small wink and a smile on his way out, but Ichigo didn't react much to the flirt besides giving a casual salute goodbye.
"Later."
And then it went silent. Renji watched with mild curiosity as White flipped his mattress over to browse through a selection of knives he had strapped against the cotton, while Ichigo felt his jaw drop a little.
"Who you stabbin' today?" Renji asked nonchalantly, making Ichigo's eyes widen in bewilderment.
"Wait. What?" He was ignored though.
White hummed to himself as he picked up a pink toothbrush with a razer blade hot-glued to the end of it. He shrugged and then pocketed the weapon before flipping the mattress back over. White then made himself comfortable on top of it as he pulled out his radio.
Ichigo wanted to interrogate him further, but the earphones were in before he could get a word out. He then turned to Renji, who still had his head dangling off the side of the bed, but the redhead just smiled and shrugged.
Attention Inmates. C Wing! I repeat: C Wing—please start making your way to the canteen. Thank you.
BLLP.
Renji's coy smile fell into a glare at that, but Ichigo just scoffed at him.
"'Ey. Where's inmate #105?"
Ichigo jumped and spun around at the sudden voice to find Ikkaku in the doorway. Fluorescent lights bounced blindingly off his bald head.
"I ain't seen the pup since he left for breakfast this morning." Renji shrugged as he swung his head, making his hair sway.
Ah. They must have been referring to Keigo.
Ikkaku reached for the hand radio strapped to his chest. "Attention guards. Keep an eye out for prisoner 105. Name: Keigo Asano. We've got a lost puppy." The radio chirped as he released the button, and then a reply came right after.
'Thanks for the heads up. Toshiro and I are patrolling outside but we'll make our way in to help look.' That sounded like the blonde guard Ichigo saw while he was in solitary.
"He's probably over at the commissary starin' at all the shit he can't afford." Renji snarked once the radio cut off and Ikkaku gave him a solid smack on the forehead. The redhead hissed and rubbed at his abused face but didn't say anything else.
Ikkaku didn't say a word as he left and continued his head count at each cell.
Ichigo scratched his head and sighed. These rules and time-limits were going to drive him nuts, he just knew it.
By the time the announcer finally called for B Wing Ichigo was famished and actually pretty tired. As he walked out into the hallway, he debated turning around and just taking a nap when multiple angry eyes honed in on him. They didn't dare do anything with the guards around, but Ichigo could tell they wanted to punch him for delaying their meal.
"Don't let 'em scare ya." White whispered in Ichigo's ear as he passed, making the orangette cringe and then stiffen.
He wasn't fucking scared.
And to prove his point, he pressed his way into the crowd. Once they got to the lunchroom everyone immediately started forming a line. Ichigo found himself being pushed and turned until he was forced all the way to the back of the line.
"'Ey! Hands to yourselves inmates!" A guard snapped, but it was too late, Ichigo was at the very end of the line. Every step felt like forever as they inched their way forward and he could already tell the food was scarce.
"Fuck this…" He grumbled under his breath. His appetite crumbled and he was too angry to nap… so he supposed the best thing to do was see if he could talk to Mr. Aizen. He'd have to travel into C Wing, but White had said it was okay to pass through territories.
While most of the guards were busy keeping the inmates in line, both figuratively and literally, Ichigo made his way towards the correct door. Sleepy Guard was standing right next to it and he raised a hand to stop Ichigo from passing.
"Look," He glanced down at the nameplate on the man's uniform, "Starrk. I just want to speak with Mr. Aizen" Ichigo tried not to sound as irritated as he felt, but a little bit of a growl found its way through. "If that's alright with you.."
Starrk shrugged and then took his hand and cupped it over his mouth to smother a yawn. "I recommend you go straight there. No detours." He then stepped out of the way.
Ichigo nodded in understanding before stepping through the doors. He took long strides and kept his head down as he walked. There were a few inmates here and there, but they paid him no mind. At least one guard was down each corner of the halls, that is, until he came to where the counselor's office was. Not a single person could be seen. Being cautious, Ichigo started towards the door, but something made him hesitate.
A sound.
Ichigo turned to see an open doorway that led to a restroom. C wing, if he remembered correctly, was owned by the… Quincy? So the restrooms would be owned by them too he supposed.
Ichigo was about to continue walking but then he heard it again. It sounded a lot like muffled crying and he could've sworn the word 'help' came through. But it was so quiet.
Too quiet.
Ichigo figured it couldn't hurt to peek in and look right?
'No detours.' Starrk's words echoed in his head, but Ichigo shook it off.
He inched his way to the opening and quickly looked around to make sure he was truly alone before peeking his head inside.
He could hear people shuffling around and moving but no one was in sight. The muffled voice from before was a little clearer now and Ichigo felt his insides clench when he realized it sounded panicked.
Shit.
Ichigo made sure the coast was clear once more before quietly making his way towards the separate wall that led to the showers. He peered around, careful to stay as close to the wall as he could.
There were more people than he expected. Six in total with four of them standing in a square formation around the rest. The sounds he'd heard came from the two on the floor. The man on top was tall with pale skin and a pink mohawk which really stood out among the brunettes surrounding him. He had someone pinned face down on the tiled floor and was struggling to keep a hand over the guy's mouth. Ichigo couldn't see his face at this angle but he could tell from the shaggy brown hair that it was Keigo.
The poor guy was really trying hard to escape, but it seemed like he was being toyed with. The only piece of clothing that remained on him were his boxers, and he kicked and flailed to try and keep them, but he was obviously out matched.
"Alright, that's it." The mohawk guy finally hissed when Keigo's heel dug into his hip. "Get him set up."
He kept his hand clamped over Keigo's mouth as the others moved forward to grab ahold of each limb. They manhandled the poor guy until he was on his knees with his face smushed down against the tiles and his arms pinned behind his back.
'Fucking hell.' Ichigo felt his chest burn with rage when mohawk guy's hands finally retreated and he could hear Keigo's ragged breathing.
"P-pl-please. Bazz-B, L-lemme go." Keigo whimpered pitifully, but the group just laughed at him. Mohawk guy, or Bazz-B, Ichigo assumed, seemed especially pleased.
He even hummed to himself as he took his time reaching for the boxers.
"I don't know why you struggle like this every time, Pup. You know I make you feel good in the end~" Bazz-B smirked as he released the cloth to let his fingers travel up the brunette's heaving sides. "Now spread 'em." He didn't even wait for Keigo to follow his orders, he forced his knees between the man's legs and snapped them apart, making his back arch even lower.
"I don't want it. I-I d—" The hand was back over his mouth.
"Hush now~ You sure are noisy today."
Ichigo's first instinct was to storm around the corner and beat the fuck out of these assholes, but he stopped himself. He couldn't afford to get in trouble again… And for who? Some guy that happened to be his cellmate in a fucking prison. He had no idea who this guy was or what he'd done to get locked up with these other assholes...
Keigo whimpered as fingers began tugging at his last remaining garment.
Ichigo gritted his teeth and clenched his fists as he used every last ounce of willpower he could muster to walk away.
He walked right out of the restroom, into the empty hall, and didn't stop until he was standing in front of the counselor's door. He was inches from it. All he had to do was raise his hand and knock. Then he could get his paperwork signed and he'd be out of this fucked up place forever.
He could serve his original sentence of 5 months, get out, reconcile with Inoue, see Rukia graduate, and maybe even get back to a normal life.
Fuck…
Ichigo bolted back down the hall and into the restroom. He didn't bother being quiet this time as he came soaring around the corner and into the showers. He didn't give the men time to react as he kicked one guy straight into the wall, cracking his head against the tiles, and then he punched another in the temple. Both males were out cold before their bodies even hit the ground. Bazz-B was up and on his feet in an instant and Ichigo had to step back and block the punch aimed at his throat. One of the remaining men kept Keigo pinned down as the other stood to help their leader. Ichigo avoided the punches from both men by ducking and weaving through their advances.
He had to stop defending if he wanted to get the upper hand though.
Exhaling, Ichigo gritted his teeth and allowed Bazz-B's fist to collide with his ribcage so that he could turn and grab hold of the other man's outstretched arm. Ichigo then used the momentum to swing him right into the other. They both collided and then went tumbling to the floor. While they attempted to untangle themselves, Ichigo took this chance to knock out the third guy who was focused on keeping Keigo from getting up. He elbowed the guy in the temple, but that only seemed to daze the man, so he had to punch him in the face a couple more times to completely knock his lights out.
As he fell to the floor, Ichigo helped his cellmate to his feet before turning to face Bazz-B and his remaining lackey.
At least now it was two on two—but from the way Keigo cowered behind him, he wouldn't be much help.
"Woah woah." Bazz-B said as his buddy went to charge at Ichigo and he quickly pulled him back by the fabric of his jumpsuit. He then paused to actually take a good look at who they were fighting. "'Ey… Ain't you the newbie who put down King?"
Ichigo didn't say a thing. He just wanted to knock these guys out and get Keigo back to the cell before they all got in trouble.
"Why you tryin' to play hero, huh!?" Bazz-B snarled irritably when Ichigo refused to speak. "That's my bitch you're protectin'—I own him!" Bazz-B felt a vein in his forehead throb when Ichigo remained silent. "You just got 'ere and already you're wantin' to make enemies o' the Quincy?"
Ichigo still refused to respond.
"Tch…" Bazz-B looked down at his men lying unconscious on the floor and felt his lip rise in distaste. "Fine. Keep 'im. He was startin' to get loose and borin' anyway." Then he and his buddy started making their way out. "Maybe you'll be more entertaining though~" He threw over his shoulder with this sick smirk twisting his lips.
Ichigo waited and didn't let his fists fall until he was sure they'd really left. Once he was satisfied, he turned to find Keigo looking up at him with wide, teary eyes.
Ichigo frowned and raised a brow but then ducked down to grab Keigo's discarded clothes. "C'mon… get dressed."
BEEP.
Attention inmates. Lunch is over. Clubs will be starting in 20 minutes and remember that you have until 6 o'clock to be back in your cells. Anyone caught outside their respective cells will get 3 points added. That's right—3 points! So keep an eye on the clock. No exceptions! Thank you.
BLLP.
Good. That means he still had time to see the counselor today. Luckily he didn't get caught fighting this time, but Ichigo figured this would probably bite him in the ass later.
When Ichigo looked back Keigo was dressed and zipping up his prison jumpsuit.
"Is there anywhere in particular you want to go?" Ichigo asked.
Keigo had his face pointed towards the floor and would only look at him from the corner of his eye before letting his gaze drop back to the tiled ground. He shook his head when he realized Ichigo was still waiting for an answer.
"Do you want me to walk you back to the cell?" Ichigo offered helpfully but he frowned when Keigo shook his head again.
Ichigo watched in mild shock as Keigo quickly walked passed him towards the door and then disappeared. Just like that. He didn't even get a thank you! But seeing the relief in Keigo's teary-eyed gaze had been gratitude enough. He just hoped that jackass, Bazz-B, would leave the poor guy alone now.
Ichigo lifted a leg to step over one of the men at his feet but froze when he looked up to find two guards standing in the doorway.
Fuck.
He recognized the blonde guard, Kisuke, as the same guy he saw outside his cell in solitary. The second guard was that short fella from yesterday who let White and him start their tour. If he remembered correctly his name was Toshiro and he had a hold of Keigo, who looked utterly defeated.
"Which one of you did this?" The short guard hissed while pointing to the unconscious bodies. Keigo flinched at the harsh tone while Ichigo looked down at his feet. Should he just be honest?
"Uhm… well—"
"I did." Keigo suddenly seemed to crack open a can of courage. He looked determined as he raised his hand.
Both guards looked at the man in disbelief, but when neither inmate said anything else, they shrugged.
Kisuke let out a long sigh as he scratched his head beneath the Guard's cap he wore. "What do you wanna do about this?"
The short guard locked eyes with Ichigo and he silently stared the man down for a minute. Then he let out a sigh of his own.
"We're not stupid, y'know... We saw Bazz-B and his friend leave… and your knuckles are red, Kurosaki." Toshiro grumbled. Ichigo looked down to see that he was right. His knuckles were a little raw, but only slightly. "But we're also not complete assholes…" He released Keigo's arm as he said this, "Saving people here is only going to get you into more trouble... Consider this your only warning." Both guards turned their backs to the inmates as they knelt down to see how badly the three men on the ground were injured.
Ichigo took this as his que to leave. He quickly skidded around the guards and then took Keigo's arm to drag him out.
Once they were in the hall, he released the quiet man but continued to steer him towards the cafeteria. He just wanted to make sure Keigo made it back without any more problems.
They didn't bother trying to get any lunch and they ignored the looks they were getting. They just went straight to their hall and then back to the empty cell. He expected Keigo to curl up in his blanket and hide in the corner like before, but he just stood there and stared at Ichigo with wide eyes.
"Why…?" He asked while picking at his sleeve.
"I couldn't just stand by when I saw what they were doing to you. Just try not to get yourself into trouble again." Ichigo said while shrugging one shoulder.
Keigo's face split into a huge smile as he nodded vigorously. "I can't thank you enough."
Ichigo ducked his head, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Don't mention it.. and thanks for trying to take the credit." He rose a brow at the nervous blush that took over Keigo's face.
"N-no problem… honestly, I don't know what I was thinkin'... but I'm glad it worked out."
Ichigo nodded in agreement. He then turned to lay in his bunk, but he paused when he noticed something sitting on top.
It was a small plastic basket with a bunch of products packed inside along with a small note.
Ichigo looked to Keigo, but the man just shrugged and gestured for him to read it. He picked it up and nearly laughed when he realized it was written in crayon. He guessed there weren't many writing utensils that were prison approved?
"A gift to the new king…" Ichigo read aloud with a frown. He set the paper aside and curiously eyed the different items inside. It mostly contained an assortment of soaps and other toiletries including a toothbrush, toothpaste, a small bladeless shaver for your face, and even a pair of waterproof slippers he assumed was for the showers. There were also some bags of candy that lined the bottom of the basket. He inspected each item thoroughly and found that nothing had been messed with; He even checked the bags for any puncture holes but they were clean. He still wouldn't trust the liquid soaps and conditioners, because who knew what was really inside… but everything else seemed fine. Or maybe he was being paranoid?
No. This is a prison. You had to stay on your toes!
"Huh… wonder who brought this." Ichigo mumbled while Keigo inched forward and then grabbed the note. He turned it over to find another message in the bottom corner.
'Welcome to the neighborhood, Ichigo.'
"Ichigo?" Keigo repeated out loud, making said orangette jump a little.
"How—…" Keigo thrust the note up so Ichigo could see the message he'd missed. "Huh… There are only a couple people in here that know my real name… so that narrows it down at least." Ichigo shrugged, "but this reminds me—White never showed me where I could shower without treading on someone's territory." He drawled, annoyance seeping into his voice. "I'd rather not have to punch someone out every time I want to wash my dick…"
Keigo blinked and looked uncomfortable. "Well… that's the thing…" he twiddled his thumbs as he looked down at the floor. "There aren't actually any neutral showers… S'kinda why a lot of people are trying to coerce you into joining them—it's 'cuz you're eventually gonna have to join one if you want full access to anything." He winced as he watched the realization dawn on Ichigo, his brows furrowing into a scowl. "You could also become someone's bitch… but then I guess that's sort of like joining a gang…" from the way Ichigo stared ludicrously at him, that was definitely not an option anyway. "Well… uhm... If you wanna stay out of trouble, your best bet would probably be the showers in B wing."
"B huh… That's where the Shinigamis are right?" Ichigo asked and Keigo confirmed with a nod.
"They actually let the Vizards use it too. They're not as territorial as the Vasto Lordes or the Quincy…" The timid brunette wrung his hands nervously when mentioning the last gang.
"So where does White shower then?" Ichigo wondered curiously while trying to get Keigo's mind off of what happened earlier.
"If you wanna see me naked, all ya gotta do is ask~"
Ichigo turned to find the aforementioned psychopath. "How long have you been standing there?" He grumbled as White smirked and leaned against the metal bars. He had a knack for showing up when you least expected him. It also amazed Ichigo that despite his mouth being stained blue from the candy, the guy's teeth were still pearly white.
"Long enough ta watch ya dig through your little gift basket there. Looks like ya got a secret admirer." White cooed while puckering his lips to make kissy noises.
Ichigo felt his cheeks burn which completely killed his death glare.
"You know who brought it, don't you?" Ichigo accused and White only shrugged with his arms crossed.
"Maybe I do, maybe I don't." When Ichigo looked like he was about to interrogate further, White continued, "But! To answer your question, I use whatever shower I fucking want."
Ichigo shouldn't be surprised. The way this man roamed the halls and commanded the people around him… it was no wonder he thought he ruled this place.
Ichigo could assume that gang lines didn't exist for the one man that supplied the people their drugs. Ichigo actually found himself wondering how exactly White ran his little business, but he shook the thought away. It didn't matter—it wasn't like he was going to get involved in any of it.
"Whatever… guess I'll give B Wing a try…" Ichigo grabbed the basket, as well as the little bottle of conditioner that Yumichika had given him before making his way out into the hall. He got about halfway down before he realized he was being followed. He turned to find Keigo right on his heels. "Uhm…" he looked over the man's shoulder to see White peeking through the cell doorway, wide smirk still slapped across his face. Ichigo stopped walking so he could turn to face his cellmate. "Thanks but I think I can find the place on my own…"
Keigo dropped his head and shuffled his feet nervously. "Oh, o-okay. Sorry. I'll wait for you in the cell then."
"What? No—" Ichigo went to reach for Keigo to stop him from turning away, but he faltered when the man flinched. Ichigo sighed through his nose but patted Keigo's shoulder reassuringly. "You don't have to wait for me, you know. Go do what you want, just try to steer clear of Bazz-B."
"But…" Kiego seemed lost. "Since you chased off Bazz-B, I'm your bitch now and I need to stay with you during free-time." He explained as if it was obvious.
Ichigo felt like his face would melt off as a blush completely devoured his cheeks. He could feel the stares that came from the surrounding cellrooms and White's stifled laughter wasn't helping, but he ignored them.
"You're not my—I mean, you're not a bitch, okay? We're friends, that's all." Ichigo explained and pursed his lips when Keigo looked up at him with starry eyes.
"We're friends?"
Oh god… was he going to regret this?
"Yes…"
Keigo seemed to explode with happiness and became bold enough to jump at Ichigo and wrap him in a bear hug. It completely caught the orangette by surprise and he let out a small squeak, but didn't fight the embrace.
"Hey! Hands off, inmates!" A guard down the hall shouted, making Keigo snap away like he'd been burned. Ichigo shook his head and gave Keigo a thumbs up before turning to continue his journey to the showers.
The way there was pretty uneventful, to say the least. Ichigo received some stares here and there, but nothing he wasn't already used to.
Inside the showers though, was a different story. This must've been rush time for showering, because there were at least twelve other people walking around under the showerheads. Steam from the hot water filled the space but wasn't thick enough to block the view. Plus, there weren't any walls or curtains between the showerheads. Ichigo quickly wiped the blush from his face as he looked around to see dicks everywhere.
Ichigo tried to think of it like the locker room after sports in school… only with big, scary, muscular, tattooed men instead of your buddies from class.
Fuck it. Get it over with.
Ichigo spotted a shute where people dumped their dirty laundry and decided to follow suit. He copied one of the men in front of him as he undressed and then put on the same waterproof slippers that Ichigo received in his little gift basket. Ichigo then found an empty showerhead in the corner and turned it on. He placed the basket by his feet as he waited a moment For the water to warm-up and he nearly sighed in relief once it did.
Just as Ichigo was beginning to feel his muscles relax under the hot spray, it was suddenly shut off.
With a scowl, Ichigo turned to find Renji leaning against the tiled wall with his arms crossed and a large grin on his face. His wet crimson locks glistened in the light and draped over thick, tattooed shoulders. Ichigo swallowed nervously at the way Renji took his time eyeing him up and down.
"You need somethin'?" Ichigo snarled quietly, hoping not to draw any attention from the other inmates, but when he finally took his eyes off Renji, he found that everyone else was already looking at them. The only noise in the room was the spray of water hitting the floor and then being sucked down the drain.
"You lost?"
Ichigo turned slightly and peered over his shoulder to see another man had snuck up behind him. This guy had more of a slender build with silver hair that framed his cheeks. A small, unnerving grin was stapled across his narrow face and Ichigo couldn't tell what he was thinking through those slitted eyes.
"Aw c'mon… I just want to wash and then I'll go. I won't cause any trouble." Ichigo nearly growled in frustration.
"Too late for that, Spitfire. Didn't White teach ya about who owns B wing? And wouldja looky here~!" Ichigo turned back around to find Renji digging through his basket. "I see that someone's been treatin' ya real nice." He smirked as he brought up a particularly large bar of soap. "The fancy stuff~"
Ichigo gulped as the man walked forward until he was almost pinned between him and the silver haired male still hovering behind.
"Give it back.." Ichigo said with a scowl and palm outstretched. Renji looked up at the ceiling as if he was contemplating. He then waved the soap around teasingly until it suddenly slipped through his fingers and hit the floor. It skidded across the tiles then took its time slowing to a stop at another inmate's feet.
"Whoops~" Renji smirked but didn't make a single move to pick it up. He merely locked gazes with Ichigo, daring the orangette to get it himself.
Ichigo refused to succumb to Renji's childish game.
"Don't make me punch you…" Ichigo growled as he took a step forward, their foreheads practically touching as he glared right back at Renji. He wasn't about to back down.
"Tch… you're no fun~" The redhead pouted, but despite what he'd just said, Ichigo blinked and felt his blush come back when he felt something press against his hip. He looked down and quickly backed away when he realized Renji's dick was hard, but Ichigo just wound up bumping into the man still hovering behind.
"Should we persuade him?" The silver haired man hummed with a smile as he reached around Ichigo to press something sharp to his throat. Ichigo felt his body tense, but he still didn't back down.
"Would you two fuckheads back off already. And really, Red… A 'drop the soap' joke? how old are you? Twelve?"
All eyes turned to a familiar, thin, blonde male as he sauntered towards the trio.
"Tch. Does my dick look like a 12-year-olds!?" Renji pointed at said appendage while thrusting his hips forward, making it sway and bounce. Ichigo couldn't help but glance down and his blush reddened. "You shouldn't even be in here either, Straight. You know that Shinigami get first dibs on the showers." Renji huffed through his nose but Shinji just waved him off.
"Old man Yama would have something different ta say 'bout that…right Gin?" Shinji rose a thin brow challengingly and Ichigo was surprised to feel the knife leave his neck.
"Aaaah. No need ta bring Yama into this…" The silver haired man replied with a frown.
"Yeah. We were just messin'... Was a lil' payback for havin' us eat a shitty lunch today." Renji cracked with a laugh as he patted Ichigo's cheek. The orangette slapped his hand away and Renji roughly bumped his shoulder as he walked passed. "But you better start learnin' the rules 'round here, Spitfire. You wouldn't want another point added to your precious record~"
"Jackass…" Ichigo hissed. He knew telling him about that was going to haunt him. Ichigo felt like he couldn't relax anymore; not even when he turned the water back on. "Thanks." He peered over his shoulder at Straight. The blonde nodded with a smile and stepped forward to speak to Ichigo quietly.
"Have you given my offer any thought?"
Ichigo ducked under the spray and let his hair completely soak before throwing his head back to let the water rush against his chest.
Honestly, he really hadn't given Shinji's offer any serious thought… but if doing normal things like showering and eating were going to be such a hassle, then it wouldn't hurt to have people show him the ropes at least. Because obviously White didn't give a rats ass… but...
"Like I said, I don't want to be in any sort of gang." Ichigo hissed under his breath only loud enough for Shinji to hear.
The blonde's smile seemed to grow at that. "We're not your typical gang. All we do is relay messages to the Vasto Lordes from the Shinigami. We're more… peacekeepers really."
So that's why the Shinigami let them into their territory… but Ichigo still looked dubious. "Then I don't think I'd be cut out for it. As you can see—" Ichigo gestured to the group of men still glaring at them. "—I don't exactly bring peace where I go."
Shinji shrugged. "Up to you. You've got 5 hours to change your mind." And then he threw a wave over his shoulder as he walked away. Ichigo couldn't help glancing down to admire the man's toned back and bottom. He then blushed when he realized Renji had caught him staring. Ichigo rolled his eyes and flipped him the middle finger before resuming his shower.
Ichigo quickly washed himself, not wanting to outstay his welcome any more than he already had.
He used the conditioner that Yumichika gave him and smiled at the hint of coconut. After he was rinsed off and clean, he quickly shuffled out of the showers and snatched one of the folded outfits piled on a table just around the corner. He didn't see a spare towel anywhere so he just shook himself dry and quickly put on the clean clothes. Boxers, a white shirt, and the grey jumpsuit. They stuck to his damp skin, but Ichigo didn't care. He chucked the slippers into his basket and put on his slip-on prison sneakers before finally leaving.
His tense shoulders only relaxed when he was finally away from all the hostile stares. But he made it out in one piece and without having to punch anyone, so that was a good sign. But he knew it was only because Shinji intervened.
He thought more about that as he started making his way back to his cell. This decision was more than just weighing the pros and cons though. He knew he didn't intend on staying here much longer, so he didn't see much harm in joining Shinji until he was transferred. It would be worth it if it kept him out of trouble but there was always a chance that joining would lead to trouble.
Ichigo managed to get halfway there before something else happened.
It was one thing after another in this place…
At least this time it was only Yumichika waving him over.
Ichigo rose a brow as he made his way over to the man's cell. He then blinked in surprise when long fingers dug gently into his damp hair. He frowned but didn't say anything against it.
"Your hair looks much better now. Shiny and soft as silk." Yumichika gushed.
Ichigo smirked a little at the attention but then shook his head to remove the fingers still tugging at his roots.
"I used the conditioner you gave me." Ichigo explained, "Smelt good. You really know what you're doing."
Yumichika beamed at the complement and nodded his head. "When it comes to beauty I am a professional. You ever need advice, you know where to find me."
"Thanks." Ichigo nodded gratefully before taking his leave with a friendly wave goodbye. The small bubble of contentment that managed to form in his chest popped as soon as he turned into his cell.
Laying on his bunk was the pale figure of White. He was shirtless and he had the top part of his suit unzipped, letting it hang from his hips. Ichigo let his gaze wander across toned abdominal muscles only for a split second, but it was still long enough to make White chuckle. The man was just lounging on Ichigo's mattress with that smug look on his face. Keigo was nowhere to be seen—Hopefully he didn't get himself into trouble again.
"Don't you have some errands to run or drugs to sell or something?" Ichigo asked, exasperated. White just grinned up at him as the orangette marched closer to the bunks. "The fuck are you so smiley about?"
"King is back from the infirmary." White's grin twisted into a smirk when he saw how Ichigo tensed up. "You just missed 'im. He stopped by to see if you were here, and boyyyy is he out for blood!"
"Where is his cell?" Ichigo practically demanded, but instantly regretted his tone when inverted eyes narrowed. "For fucksake.. look… Just…" Ichigo scratched the back of his head and debated whether he would regret saying this again. Renji was already teasing him with the knowledge so who knew what this particular asshole would do with it…
"What?" White pressed while shifting up the bed to lean against the wall.
Ichigo clicked his tongue in frustration
"I can't get another point okay? Otherwise I'm stuck here for 6 years. I just want to get to Mr. Aizen's office without running into that blue bastard."
White shrugged and then inspected the dirt under his nails as he crossed one leg over his other knee nonchalantly.
"You really think you're gonna get outta here, dontchya?" He said without looking up.
"The paperwork is there and ready, I just need Mr. Aizen to sign it."
"Pfffhah!" White laughed and then quickly rolled off the bed to jump to his feet and stand toe to toe with Ichigo. "Ya know what? I'll escort ya there myself."
Ichigo rose a brow and took a step back from the man. "You don't think he'll sign, do you…?" He assumed from White's attitude.
"Guess we'll find out, won't we?" White's sadistic smile dropped into a frown as he brushed past him. He then walked right out of the cell, not even bothering to put a shirt on or zip up his prison suit, he just let it drag across the floor behind him.
Ichigo stood there and debated his options only for a split second before chucking the basket still in his hand onto the bed. He jogged to catch up with White.
"Walk, inmate!" A guard shouted from down the hall, making Ichigo flinch, but he had already slowed down.
White was silent the whole way there, but Ichigo didn't mind. He just kept his head down and focused on following without tripping on the man's suit. He could feel multiple eyes follow them as they traveled through the hall with all the different clubs, but Ichigo never looked up. He was too nervous that he might wind up locking gazes with familiar blue.
They got to their destination without incident, to Ichigo's surprise and relief. It probably had to do with who he was traveling with and he almost envied White for having such power over the other inmates.
White crossed his arms and leaned back against the wall right beside the door, allowing Ichigo to walk up to it. The orangette steeled himself before knocking firmly. After a moment he heard the familiar voice say, "Come in."
He did so without hesitation and then closed the door without shutting it completely. He knew White would want to hear the conversation for himself, and he figured he owed the man at least that much for helping him get here.
"Ah. Ichigo. Glad to see you're out of solitary so soon." Sousuke actually sounded slightly surprised by this. "Normally a fight like that would have kept you in there for a whole week."
Ichigo shrugged one shoulder as he sunk into the same chair he'd sat in last time he was here. "Uhm. I guess they took it easy on me since I just got here and this is my first time in prison."
Sousuke hummed thoughtfully at that as he leaned over his desk with interest.
"I see… so what can I do for you?"
Ichigo lightly scratched his cheek as he nervously shifted in the chair. "Well, you see… I know you're probably busy, but I spoke with my lawyer today. He told me he sent you my transfer papers…"
Aizen nodded as he opened his laptop.
"My apologies. I haven't actually gone through my emails yet today. Give me one moment and I'll check." He said with a smile as he started tapping a finger across the touchpad.
Ichigo smiled politely back and nodded with a wave. "Oh that's alright. I appreciate you looking."
"What did you say your lawyer's name was?"
"Byakuya Kuchiki. B-y-a-k-u-y-a." Ichigo rattled off quickly but Sousuke had no trouble typing it in.
"Ah… here we go." He clicked on the touchpad once more and then rolled his chair back to the printer that was sitting atop a cabinet towards the corner of the room. It was one of those older printers with the large ink cartridges that printed one little line at a time.
Ichigo felt his knee bounce impatiently but he kept his cool. He was so fucking close now! All he needed was the signature and then he'd be out of this fucked up place.
Once all the pages were printed, Sousuke took the small stack and went right back to his desk to staple it together. He then tilted his head to peer over his glasses as he read each word carefully.
"Very efficient. You have a good lawyer." Sousuke complimented.
"The best." Ichigo agreed easily but then he frowned at what the man said next.
"However. The paperwork I showed you the other day conflicts with this… I'm afraid I can't sign until that's been handled first."
"W-what…?" Ichigo croaked in disbelief. "No… no. No." He shook his head and gripped the arms of the chair as he tried not to explode. "This isn't…"
He was about to say it wasn't fair. That he didn't deserve this. That he shouldn't even be here.
But he knew that he would get no pity from this man. How many other inmates before him have sat in this very chair and said those same lines? This man has probably heard it all and more.
Ichigo calmed himself before looking back up to lock eyes with the counselor that was silently eyeing him.
"Mr. Aizen… I can't really get into all the details, but it's imperative that I get this figured out as soon as possible."
Sousuke laced his fingers together casually as he smiled, but the expression didn't reach his eyes this time. It seemed much more cold and calculating than before.
"You sound rather desperate…" The man said while leaning forward.
Ichigo resisted the urge to cringe.
"I wouldn't put it like that… but…"
Yes. He was pretty desperate at this point. He tensed when the man stood, making his chair roll backwards. Sousuke took his time walking to the door and Ichigo felt his insides churn uncomfortably as he watched the counselor shut the door completely and then twist the lock.
That wasn't a good sign.
"Uhm…" Ichigo began, but his thought died when Sousuke suddenly rushed up behind him. The man placed one hand on Ichigo's shoulder to keep him pinned to the chair while the other hand curled up his slender neck until it was pressing up on his chin, forcing him to look upwards.
Ichigo felt goosebumps erupt across his skin when a dark chuckle reached his ear.
"Tell you what, Ichigo." Sousuke hummed the younger's name as he gently pressed his nose into orange tresses that were still damp from the shower. "I'll make a deal with you."
Ichigo had a feeling he knew where this was headed, but he listened without making a sound.
"I'll sign those papers for you but you have to do a few things for me first. Deal?"
Ichigo gritted his teeth and tried to look back at the man but fingers quickly dug into his hair and yanked back. He hissed at the slight pain in his scalp as he was forced to look up towards the ceiling again. Bile stung the back of his throat when he both heard and felt Sousuke inhale through his nose.
"What do you want me to do…?" Ichigo asked cautiously. He winced as the fingers in his hair clenched harshly and his back arched when it pulled until he was looking over the chair. He felt Sousuke's next words as the man's lips moved against the side of his neck.
"It's a yes or no question." The smile twisted when he heard Ichigo gulp. "So the next word I want to hear from you is a yes…" Sousuke lifted the hand that had been gripping Ichigo's shoulder to lightly finger the adam's apple presented to him. "or no…"
Ichigo finally reached up and pried the hands from himself so he could stand and face the man. He glared up at the counselor and rose his lip in disgust.
This person was just as bad as Bazz-B—along with the rest of the assholes locked up in here! How did a sleazeball like this end up a counselor!?
Sousuke seemed unperturbed by Ichigo's reaction and calmly walked back towards his desk to grab the aforementioned paperwork. He then shrugged and lowered the documents until they were hovering over his personal shredder.
"Wait!" Ichigo took a step forward but Sousuke only raised a brow at him.
"..."
Shit. Did he really have no other choice…?
"Fine…" He reluctantly spat, the word sticking to his mouth like taffy.
"I'm sorry. Was that a yes?"
Ichigo ground his teeth together as he clenched his fists.
"Yes…"
He absolutely hated being at this man's mercy. But that was all the more reason to get this over with so he could transfer the FUCK out of here.
"Excellent." Sousuke was practically beaming in his victory. He placed the paperwork safely back on the desk as he returned to his chair. "First I would like you to sign these for me." He said while digging out another set of papers from one of the drawers.
"What are they…?" Ichigo asked as he took the pen that was offered to him. He then leaned forward to read before actually signing.
"It's just a document stating that you witnessed a guard abusing another inmate. And another that says you noticed one of your cellmates behaving abnormally."
Ichigo's brows furrowed as he finished reading the first document. Surprisingly, the guard mentioned was Captain Zaraki.
Sousuke was trying to get Kenpachi in trouble? But why?
Ichigo then flipped to the next page that was labeled 'Psychiatric Evaluation'. It talked about a man named 'Zangetsu Shirosaki' and that he was seen making weapons and threatening other inmates and just acting crazy. Aizen mentioned that the guy was one of his cellmates, so Ichigo assumed it must be 'White'.
In hindsight, everything written about both of them was actually true. Granted, the situations were made up, but Ichigo did witness Zaraki punch Nnoitra, and he never caught White actually make any of the weapons, but he saw the man's little collection.
Of course Ichigo realized that by doing this he'd be 'snitching', which could get you in a lot of trouble in prison, but if it meant leaving… A smile slipped onto his face when he remembered Rukia warning him about this very situation.
Ichigo pressed the pen down on the first blank line and was about to sign, but he…
He just couldn't. Especially not to Kenpachi. Say what you will about the man, but he has saved Ichigo's ass on more than one occasion; That's not even including how Kenpachi stuck his neck out for him here in the prison.
And White was strange, sure, and the bastard even had a knife to his throat at one point, but did the guy really deserve to be sent back to Psych ward?
Mmm… Yeah, Probably.
Ichigo was conflicted and Sousuke frowned when the inmate still refused to sign.
"Something wrong?"
Ichigo could only think of one other thing to try and change the man's mind. He slowly stood and dropped the pen as he walked around the desk. He let his fingers drag lightly across the smooth wood and then up the counselor's surprisingly solid chest.
Sousuke smirked while pushing his glasses up to rest comfortably on his nose. He didn't seem as bothered as he should be with the inmate's advance.
And that was because he knew Ichigo needed him.
What a cocky bastard…
"What if, instead, I just let you fuck me?" Ichigo suggested calmly while moving to stand on either side of the man's knees. He still had one hand on his chest and rested the other against a firm shoulder.
Sousuke hummed as he leaned back comfortably in the chair. He then raised his hands to grip Ichigo's waist, letting his thumbs circle slim hips through the thick material of his prisonsuit.
"That was going to be my next request." Sousuke's hands slid back until his fingers were firmly wrapped around Ichigo's ass cheeks and used the grip to pull the smaller male up and into his lap.
Ichigo couldn't help it as his cheeks burned red from the intimate contact. It's been a long time since he was handled like this.
Yes, he and Inoue had been together on many occasions, but he'd usually have to coerce her into it. She was extremely bashful when it came to anything sexual. She was so timid and fragile. It always had to be a big deal, where he needed to wine and dine her first.
Inoue couldn't even bring herself to give him a blowjob. Any time Ichigo would try to initiate it, she'd squeal and hide her blushing face in her hands before his dick even touched her lips. Plus, he hasn't really seen Inoue in over a month. He saw her in the crowd of the courtroom when he was sentenced by the judge, but during the whole trial, she never once visited him.
Despite the little hiccups in their relationship, the thought of Inoue's sweet smile made Ichigo's heart squeeze. This would be considered cheating to anyone else, but Ichigo knew there were no feelings involved here.
This was no date, Ichigo tried to reason with himself, especially when his insides twitched in excitement as strong fingers massaged his gluteus.
He'd sooner cut off his own tongue then admit that it felt really fucking good.
Ichigo ducked down until his nose brushed the other's perfectly straight one and felt a short chuckle puff against his parted lips. Ichigo slowly reached up to pull the glasses away so he could stare straight into sharp, chestnut eyes. He placed the item carefully back on the desk before letting his hands play with the buttons of a dark-green dress shirt. The material was silky and extremely soft.
This man liked to wear his money.
Ichigo let his lips slide against high cheekbones until he could whisper in his ear "I'm sorry. Was that a yes?" Using the same teasing lilt that Sousuke had used with that same question.
Ichigo was embarrassed at the squeak that escaped his throat when Sousuke suddenly stood to his feet. The inmate wrapped his legs securely around the other's waist but then relaxed when he was placed on the desk. Sousuke locked his arms on either side of Ichigo as he leaned forward to press his lips against a warm cheek.
"If you really want my signature then I need TWO from you."
Ichigo felt his blood run cold and he scowled up at the man. Fucking...
Fuck!
He couldn't do it.
"No deal." Ichigo growled and used his grip on the man's shoulders to push him away, but Sousuke didn't budge.
"Are you sure…?" He pulled Ichigo closer by his waist until their middles were pressed firmly together. Ichigo's blush came back with force when he felt a hard dick pulsing against his inner thigh. "You really think you can make it here for 5 whole years?" Ichigo closed his eyes and curled in on himself when he felt the zipper of his suit get tugged down. "And for who? Zaraki and that pale pain in my ass? You know they both deserve it. The others are just too scared to stand up to them. You'd be doing everyone else in here a favor, Ichigo. You'd be a hero." Ichigo gasped as cold fingers slid beneath his T Shirt to caress his stomach. Sousuke smirked as he felt each little muscle tense and flinch at his touch. "You would really give up your freedom for two of the worst people in this place?"
You know what the fucked up thing is?
He would.
Ichigo made Sousuke flinch away by pinching his sides and then quickly tried to hop off the desk, but the man pulled him back down roughly.
CRNCH!
Oh shit.
Sousuke recoiled at the sound and finally let Ichigo stand up. He then backed away so they could both look down at the cracked and bent glasses smashed against his desk.
The counselor sighed while pinching his nose, but Ichigo couldn't bring himself to feel bad.
"Well… good thing I brought my contact lenses…" Sousuke grumbled under his breath before turning to address the orangette. "If there's no deal then kindly get out." He said curtly while rebuttoning his shirt and tucking it back into his pants.
Ichigo didn't need to be told twice. He quickly marched to the door and unlocked it before ripping it open. He didn't bother closing it and he didn't even spare White a glance as he passed the man still leaning by the doorway.
Not a word was exchanged as Ichigo walked as quickly as he could without the guards huffing at him. A few inmates tried to get the newbie's attention, but White just waved them away with a shake of his head.
Ichigo was about ready to explode.
He turned to make his way down the hall where their cell was, but White quietly steered the frazzled man in the opposite direction.
Ichigo was too upset to really notice until he felt a cool breeze brush against his face. He blinked and then looked up to find a clear sky with one small cloud drifting by.
The fresh air actually really helped calm him down. He looked around at the fenced in area and realized that this must be the yard. Beyond the fence was another ring of fences and beyond that were towers with guards posted inside. There was a basketball court tucked away in the corner where some people were playing. When he glanced around some more he noticed other small groups of inmates huddled around each other, but the yard was big enough to where each huddle could have their own conversation.
Ichigo flinched and quickly looked back towards White when he felt the man reach for him. The blush was back when he glanced down to watch as White slowly zipped his suit back up.
"Ya good?" He asked under his breath as he patted Ichigo's shoulder. He only touched him briefly, but it was enough to get Ichigo's blood pumping.
Fuck. He was still really riled up. He needed to blow off some steam.
"You were right. That prick wasn't any help…" Ichigo snarled while fiddling with the zipper.
"..."
Golden eyes flickered across the other's red face that was scrunched in pure frustration. White's expression remained neutral and he didn't say a word as he steered Ichigo over towards the basketball court.
"No." Ichigo went to turn around, but White pushed him forward until they were standing right next to the hoop. "Seriously? You trying to get me in trouble?" The inmates that were playing noticed them right away and paused their game to approach.
Nnoitra happened to be in the group and was currently the one with the basketball tucked between his elbow and side.
"Got room for two?" White smirked while making Ichigo stumble forward with a hard whack to his shoulder.
"Fucker…" Ichigo grumbled under his breath, making a few of the others chuckle.
"Tch. Let's see what ya got, newbie." Nnoitra bounced the ball towards Ichigo but White quickly intercepted. He hopped forward and then turned to stand right in front of the more colorful male. White held the ball out invitingly with a playful smirk stretched across his face.
"C'mon, Clementine." He taunted, still holding the ball towards Ichigo.
Never one to back down from a challenge, Ichigo swiped to grab the ball, but White was fast. He swung the ball around his back and then held it out with the opposite hand. Ichigo tried to snatch it again, but White let it drop this time and bounced it to his side easily. "Gotta do betta than tha', Carrot."
Growling, Ichigo rushed forward and smacked the ball mid bounce and they both chased it across the court. White's feet got tangled up in his jumpsuit, which he still had hanging loose off his hips, so Ichigo managed to grab it first. Crouching low, he twisted and popped up to jump and shoot it in. It looked like a clean shot, but White soared up behind him and reached over his head to smack the ball straight down. Ichigo wasn't even back on the ground yet before White had the ball and was dunking it in, suit dangling beneath him as he clung to the metal hoop for dramatic effect.
"Hah!" Nnoitra laughed from the side.
"Alright." Ichigo took a deep breath through his nose and then rolled his shoulders. This was one way to let out steam and he was going to take full advantage of it.
He shook off his nerves once White passed him the ball in order to set the next match. Ichigo spun the rough material in his hand and mirrored White's smirk.
"Get passed me." Ichigo challenged as he bounced the ball back to white, who was standing directly in the middle of the court.
White cackled and then sped to the right, keeping low so he could defend the ball. Ichigo ran right around his opponent and snuck up on the opposite side to steal the ball just as it bounced. He then dribbled it back to the middle and shot from the 3 point line. White jumped to smack the ball out of the air, but his fingertips were just millimeters shy. The net barely made a sound as the ball went through.
White nodded while clapping as he spun back around to give Ichigo his undivided attention.
"Very nice, Carrot Top!"
Ichigo rolled his eyes. "Would you quit it with the dumb nicknames! My name is—"
"Ichigo Kurosaki."
Ichigo felt like he got whiplash at the speed he spun around. His eyes were wide and he almost—almost squeaked in fear when he looked up into mischievous blue eyes.
When did he get there?!
Ichigo quickly shuffled backwards until he felt he was at a safe distance, and Grimmjow didn't chase him. Thankfully.
He wanted to tell the man to 'fuck off' but his lips felt like they'd been sewn together. He stumbled in his panic but quickly righted himself and then crossed his arms defensively.
Grimmjow tilted his head and smirked through crystal blue bangs. Ichigo could see the thin bulges in his neck as he crossed his arms and gulped nervously.
He never really got a good look at Grimmjow up close while he was beating the shit out of him the other day. The guy definitely bulked up, but Grimmjow had always been strong. His hair was still the same color, length, and style—So not too much had changed.
The teal markings under his eyes were new though.
Ichigo's nervousness evaporated when he got a good look at the blackeye peering back at him.
"Heheh. Your face matches your hair." Ichigo cracked a laugh and it only got louder when White joined in.
Grimmjow raised a brow but didn't rise to the bait.
"Y'know… I thought I'd beat the shit outta you the next time I saw ya, but seein' that haircut and your face." Grimmjow's lips spread into a wide smirk. "All these old feelin's are stirrin' up." He pressed forward suddenly, eyes wide and crazed as he got up in Ichigo's space. "Can't ya feel it, Ichi~?"
"Back up, asshole."
"Hah ha!" Grimmjow ducked down to grab the basketball as it rolled towards his feet and then took a few steps back to let Ichigo breathe. "You really know how to stroke a guy's fire, Ichi. Gets my blood pumpin'~" He rolled one powerful shoulder and then unzipped his suit halfway before tying the loose arms together to keep it up above his waist. He then peeled his shirt off to reveal smooth, well toned muscles.
"What are you doing?" Ichigo managed to bite out.
Grimmjow didn't answer as he bounced the ball at his side, testing it out. Ichigo couldn't stop himself, even if he tried, as his eyes strayed downward to watch pronounced muscles move beneath sun-kissed skin.
"Stop droolin' and kick his ass already." White snapped Ichigo out of his trance with a rough elbow in the side.
"Fuck it." Ichigo stretched his neck to loosen the tense muscles in his shoulder and then cracked his knuckles together. Grimmjow's smirk turned playful as he ducked low and dribbled the ball expertly between his feet. He then faked going to the right and quickly rolled left, making Ichigo stumble. The orangette didn't even have time to correct his footing before Grimmjow was at the hoop.
Growling irritably, Ichigo quickly caught up to the man just as he hopped up to shoot. He reached up to smack the ball from his hands, but then a solid elbow to the nose stopped him right in his tracks.
Ichigo held his face and winced as he fell to the concrete. He quickly sat up and pressed his nose carefully to make sure it wasn't broken while ignoring the swish of the net.
"Hey! I saw that. Do I really need to close the yard early again?!" All eyes turned to see Zaraki standing just on the other side of the fence with arms crossed over his chest.
"Aw c'mon, Captain!" Grimmjow's smirk never left his face. "It was just an accident. Right, Ichi?" He held a hand out towards Ichigo as he said this, but the newbie slapped it away.
Ichigo checked to make sure his nose wasn't bleeding before jumping back to his feet. He then snatched the ball up from the ground before returning to the middle of the court.
"S'alright, Captain Zaraki. Nothin' happened." He was so mad that his speech was beginning to suffer. Or maybe he'd just been hanging around White too much.
Zaraki huffed through his nose, but remained where he was standing.
Ichigo passed the ball with extra force and Grimmjow caught it as it rebounded off his chest with a laugh. He then passed it back to Ichigo and watched with that damn smirk still on his face as Ichigo tried to rush by him.
Grimmjow just stepped over and planted his feet so that when Ichigo collided into him, the smaller man bounced off.
Ichigo stumbled back and blinked at the man towering in front of him. He was a solid wall of muscle, so pushing passed wasn't going to work. Speed seemed to be his only option.
Ball still held firmly in his grasp, he dribbled it as low to the ground as he could manage and zigzagged up to Grimmjow. He faked going right, but he knew Grimmjow was expecting it and faked going to the left as well. This time Grimmjow's feet were off and his balance was lost, giving Ichigo his chance to bounce the ball down between his opponent's spread legs and then swerved around him. He didn't want to give Grimmjow a chance to knock the ball from his hand, so he went straight for a dunk.
Ichigo had both feet off the pavement and he was up in the air, about to slam it in, when he found himself knocked back to the ground.
Fuck!
His hand scraped against the concrete and Ichigo looked down to see that his palm was bleeding, but only slightly.
Grimmjow had just shoved him aside like it was nothing! Rage boiled under Ichigo's skin and he shot back to his feet with fists clenched. They set the match again and Ichigo tried to get around Grimmjow, but as soon as he zipped by, the man stuck out his foot to trip him. Ichigo hissed under his breath when he had to catch himself with his hands before his face planted into concrete. Now both of his palms were stinging. He pushed himself up to his knees and then looked up but instantly regretted it when he saw Grimmjow towering over him with that playful smirk stuck to his face.
Grimmjow raised the ball and shot it forward, bouncing it right off Ichigo's face. The ball hit hard enough to press Ichigo back into the ground and then soared towards the hoop, but Grimmjow had to jump up and dunk it the rest of the way in.
"Fuck!" Ichigo huffed under his breath. It took a little more effort to get back on his feet this time and he cringed when he turned to see that the curious inmates that had been huddling around the yard were now crowded around the court. He was being scrutinized and he didn't like it one bit.
"What'sa matter, Ichi? Ya hurt?" Grimmjow cooed as he circled his prey like a prowling cat. He bounced the ball at his side and looked like he didn't have a care in the world. He was practically basking in the attention.
Ichigo wanted to punch that fucking look right off his face but he forced himself to ignore the taunt. He quickly glanced over to see that Zaraki was still standing there watching them.
"Fuck this…"
Ichigo carefully brushed the dirt off his jumpsuit with the back of his hands and started walking back towards the building.
"Yeahhh…. s'what I thought. All you do is run, ya quitter!" Grimmjow snarled, his lips finally dropping to a frown as he watched Ichigo retreat. "Ya chickenshit!" But Ichigo didn't even acknowledge him. Clenching his teeth in rage, Grimmjow raised the basketball and shot it straight at the bright orange target still walking away.
"Hey!" Kenpachi shouted at Grimmjow threateningly, but the sound made Ichigo pause and turn his head. Chestnut eyes widened when they saw the round projectile soaring straight towards his cheek. He braced himself with his eyes clenched shut, but the hit never came.
Ichigo slowly peeked through one eye and then blinked them both open when he saw a large, pale hand hovering right in front of his face with the basketball trapped in its grasp.
Man, that was close…
Ichigo let his gaze travel up the bare arm until he was looking at White's expressionless face. Gold on black eyes were pinned to Grimmjow and the two held gazes for a while.
"King…" That young guy from the restroom that Ichigo ran into tugged at Grimmjow's arm, breaking the intense staring contest.
Grimmjow quickly snatched his arm away with a snarl but then he looked in the direction that Luppi was pointing. Zaraki was quickly making his way around the fence to get inside the yard.
"Tch. This ain't over." He directed the hiss straight at Ichigo, but the man didn't react.
Grimmjow marched back into the building with a small group following, including Loop who sent Ichigo a rather nasty glare before the doors shut behind them. The inmates that had gathered dispersed by the time Zaraki came stomping over. The large man pushed White aside so he could get to Ichigo and then grabbed the orangette's chin without warning.
Ichigo blinked as his face was turned up and then twisted side to side carefully. Zaraki sighed through his nose and then reached for the radio strapped to his vest.
"Captain Zaraki speaking. I want eyes on King. If he goes anywhere near B wing then I want to know about it."
Bpp.
A resounding 'Sir, yes sir!' Echoed through the radio before going silent.
He let the device go and then gently grasped Ichigo by the back of his neck. "C'mon, kid. Let's get you cleaned up." He used his grip on the smaller male to turn him towards the building, but Ichigo smacked his hand away.
"I'm fine!" He huffed irritably. Zaraki raised a brow and then actually took a step back. "Look, thanks for your concern, but…" Ichigo trailed off and shook his head as he inspected his hands again. They were very raw and stung with every little movement, but it was nothing to cry over. He's had worse. "I'm okay."
"No, you're not." Zaraki crossed his arms over his chest. "You're never going to get outta here if you keep this up. I'm not gonna add points, but I can't keep you outta trouble every time shit like this happens."
"Oh hell! Spare me the lecture." Ichigo snapped. He was beginning to feel like a toddler being rebuked at the playground. What the fuck? "I didn't even fuckin' do anything!" He spun on his heel and started making his way back inside.
"Where are you goin'?" Zaraki demanded. He shook his head and smirked when his only answer was a middle finger in the air. He then looked over to raise a brow at White, who was standing right next to him and watching Ichigo disappear with his arms also crossed. "Should I be worried that ya've taken such an interest in him..?"
White glanced up with a mischievous glint in his dark eyes before looking back to the doors as they shut.
"Nah. Don't worry, I ain't gonna hurt 'im..." 'Much…' He finished in his head with a small chuckle. White took the ball that was still in his grasp and spun it on the tip of his middle finger, balancing it with ease.
"Just don't get any funny ideas."
The ball dropped and bounced back towards the court until it rolled to a stop. White slowly lifted his head to lock eyes with Zaraki once more.
"And the competition thickens, eh?" White's grin grew until it nearly split his face. "Bad enough I got King, Peacock, and Red ta worry about… but ya know what? I'm always up for a challenge." White didn't give the captain any time to respond. He shoved his hands in the pockets of his prisonsuit and whistled to himself as he waltzed inside.
"Mannn…" Zaraki reached up to scratch the back of his head and sighed deeply through his nose. "You really have the worst luck, Ichigo."
...
..
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TBC