Lies Open Prison Doors
Chapter 13: Death Wish
RINGGGG...
RINGGGG…
There was a soft click on the other line letting Ichigo know that the call was answered, but then the automated county message came to life before a word could be said:
'You are receiving a collect call from an inmate at Hueco Mundo Maximum Correctional Facility. This phone call will be monitored or recorded. If you'd like to answer and receive this call, please press 3…'
There was a loud beep and a small smile tilted Ichigo's lips when he heard a familiar angry huff through the receiver.
Rukia was already pissed off and he hadn't even said anything yet.
"You were supposed to call DAYS ago, Ichigo!"
"How'd you know it was me?" Ichigo joked.
"I don't know any other idiot that would WILLINGLY stay in that hellhole!" She jabbed verbally and Ichigo couldn't help but smile.
"Byakuya told you?"
"Of course. And he showed me the file he found on that guy you're sticking your neck out for—what's his name… Zangeshoo?" Rukia grumbled and Ichigo snorted in amusement as he tucked the phone closer to his face. He decided not to correct her and just leaned on the divider to his left. He rolled over the thin metal until his back was flat then he glanced up to peer through the wall of windows, straight into the yard packed with inmates. It was a nice day out today; slightly overcast with a cool breeze and a few sunny patches leaking through the clouds. "I think trying to help that psychopath is a stupid idea—you're stupid." Well that was just a mood killer right there. "You shouldn't confess for some guy that will try to kill you! I mean… getting imprisoned for something YOU did… And for THAT long… I'd probably try to kill you too."
She didn't need to tell him that… Ichigo was kicking himself enough as it was. Of course the file Byakuya found told them how Zangetsu was convicted for being 'Reaper'. Wasn't hard to piece together why Ichigo was willing to help the man out.
"Byakuya is on his way there right now to show you. Ichigo, please, please, tell me you're planning to get out. Don't get yourself stuck there! Please! Your father isn't getting any younger—he needs your help around the clinic. Especially with your sisters off at college now. You can't stay mad at him forever... You also need to think about Nel!"
"I haven't forgotten her…" Ichigo sighed with a small groan. "And dad can take care of himself! Trust me, we're stuck with that goat-face for another 40 years—at least. What's 8 years compared to THAT!?" Ichigo tried to shrug off the sudden hostility that was beginning to wind up his gut. "But why would I be mad at him? He's the one not talking to ME anymore, remember? I don't even know WHY, I assume it's because he's ready to disown his only son for becoming a convict." A sigh crackled through the receiver and Ichigo continued before Rukia could express her irritation. "And I KNOW that confessing would be a really dumb idea—I promise I'll only use it as a last resort!"
"Ichigo…" Rukia started and it sounded like she wanted to reprimand him for something he said but then she went quiet. He could hear her take a deep, calming breath before she finally hummed, "Sounds like you have something else up your sleeve..." It was a statement but it had a curious lilt to it, like she was hoping he would explain himself without her having to interrogate him.
"I'm working on it…" He grudgingly replied as he reached for the fake cardkey that was now in his possession. It's been tucked away in his pocket since Kisuke gave it to him hours ago. The man had been true to his word and even gave Ichigo the flash-drive he requested. The guard uniform and map would have to wait until tonight, when Ichigo was ready to use them. There was no way he was hiding them in his cell for anyone (Inmate or guard) to find. "If everything goes right tonight, then Zangetsu should at least be out of Psych Ward and then Byakuya can use those transfer papers to get me the hell out before he gets a chance to kill me."
Actually, now that he thought about it…
Escaping Zangetsu while waiting on his transfer was going to be so much easier now that they weren't cellmates anymore. All because Grimmjow had taken his spot…
Wait...
Was that on purpose?
Ichigo had never actually stopped to wonder if there was an ulterior motive to Grimmjow's sudden movement. He'd been too busy having an emotional meltdown ever since… Well, ever since day one really. But if White's spot needed to be filled, then why Grimmjow? The warden wouldn't have suggested it due to their... violent interactions. Unless Yhwach wanted Ichigo to fight. It would make sense if Bazz-B arranged it, but there was also the possibility that Grimmjow himself requested the cell transfer. It was hard to tell.
Ichigo wasn't sure what to think of the sudden overflow of 'what if's that were cascading through his mind like a waterfall. He tried to shake the thoughts away and clear his throat—it took a few tries, but then he said, "Anyway… Listen, I actually do have a favor that concerns Nelliel."
"Sure. Name it." Rukia didn't hesitate to accept and that's what Ichigo loved about her and Byakuya. They were both such good, loyal friends. Ichigo wondered what he ever did to deserve them.
"If…" He paused and dug the phone against his forehead for a moment to help steady himself for what he was about to say, "If I don't call you back before lockdown at 6 o'clock tomorrow, I want you to take Nelliel and keep her with you for a while."
There was a shocked moment of silence and it went on for so long that Ichigo wondered if she actually hung up.
…
"Are you KIDDING me!?"
Ichigo winced and quickly pulled the speaker from his ear.
"You are always sticking your head where it doesn't belong! You need to stop throwing yourself into danger! You're ALLOWED to think of yourself sometimes, you know! And what about Inoue!? She'll be devastated when she finds out you yanked Nel away from her. And what about poor Nel!? Inoue is the only mom she's ever known. Ichigo..."
"Look!" Said man tried not to yell as he noticed some inmates walking by, but he had to raise his voice to talk over her emotional ranting. He slowly brought the phone back to his ear and explained as gently as he could manage with his throat so tight, "I know it's not the most… ideal… And I love Inoue—you know that. Last thing I want is to hurt either of them, but she got herself into a pretty shaky situation… and it's just safer for Nel if she stays with you."
He could almost see the narrowed midnight blue eyes glaring at him as Rukia asked, "What kind of situation did Inoue get herself into? Is she alright?"
Ichigo rubbed at his face in frustration as he reluctantly answered, "Her new… boyfriend-this Uryuu Ishida guy—his Uncle is the Warden and his cousin, some shmuck named Bazz-B, is an inmate here. And just because I won't willingly become the guy's prison bitch, he's threatening to hurt her." He heard Rukia's gasp on the other line and quickly added, "Try not to worry. If being that asshole's… plaything, is really the only way to keep Nel and the rest of you safe, then I'll do it. But... just in case, I also spoke to Ginjou," Who Ichigo caught drinking in an abandoned section of the prison library. He didn't explain the WHOLE situation to Ginjou, because he hated admitting defeat in front of his mentor, but also because he knew Ginjou would never let him live it down... "He promised to send someone to watch over Inoue. They'll make sure nothing happens... I just don't know how long he'll be able to spare the men, and I don't want to take ANY chances with Nel. That's why I want you to take her tomorrow."
"It sounds more like you're the one that got Inoue into this situation, Ichigo. And you're about to drag me in as well."
Ichigo felt his chest prickle with guilt. "Hey, it's not my fault she's banging the guy's cousin!" Ichigo shot right back. "And—what? Are you saying you won't take her?"
"Of course I will… I'll take Nel if something happens to you, but nothing is going to happen, because I know you would never leave that poor girl to grow up without a proper father figure in her life. And I'm not worried about Inoue because I already know you would do anything for us… And that's why I'm pissed. You shouldn't have to degrade yourself like this." She growled, mirroring Ichigo's own frustration. The orangette tilted his head backwards to stare up at the ceiling with an exasperated scowl on his face. She knew just what to say to tighten his resolve, didn't she?
Despite the extra precautions and having to almost beg Ginjou to help him out, Ichigo knew he was still going to end up in Bazz-B's cell after lunch. If sleeping with every Quincy is what it took to keep Inoue from getting hurt, then so be it.
Thankfully he had two whole hours left before he had to worry about that.
"Thanks for agreeing to take Nel. I know it's short notice, but I have a bad feeling and I just want to make sure all my affairs are in order." Ichigo confessed honestly. He wasn't sure what would happen after tonight. Only Kisuke, and perhaps Ikkaku, really knew what was about to happen, and Ichigo wanted to try and keep it that way. Too many people involved on a mission like this could ruin the whole thing... and yet… he still needed to warn his cellmates not to mention his absence during roll call. He had to convince them without giving away any details. He knew Keigo wouldn't be hard to persuade and he couldn't think of a reason why Renji would snitch.
Grimmjow, though… That was a whole 'nother beast. And Ichigo needed to sway that beast before he could put his plan into motion.
"You're welcome… I know you wouldn't ask unless you were serious." Rukia's soft voice slowly reeled him back from his thoughts. When Ichigo was silent for another minute, Rukia pressed, "Is there something else going on that I should know about..?"
Yes.
A lot of things.
"Nope."
"This had better not be our last conversation, Ichigo Kurosaki," He could hear the deep frown she must be wearing, "But if it is… then is there anything you'd like to get off your chest? Any regrets?"
Ichigo scratched the back of his head nervously. He'd been hoping to avoid this part of the conversation.
"Uhmmm… regrets? Nah… But if I AM going to die then I guess I can tell you a secret that Byakuya made me promise to take to my grave."
"Oh?" Rukia's voice rose an octave and Ichigo could tell he had her complete and undivided attention.
"Do you remember the senior class party we all went to?"
"Yeahhh. I think so? Wait, which one? The one with the huge bonfire, or the one at the lake?"
"Those were both the same party, Rukia." Ichigo snickered in amusement when she went quiet. "And that wasn't a bonfire. The shed next to the cabin literally caught on fire, remember?"
"Hehh… barely. I drank half the bar that night, Ichigo." Rukia confessed and then she groaned as if she were reliving the hangover she had that next day.
"And I drank the other half." He countered, "That's why I had to go back into town and buy more."
"Waaiiit, I remember. You tried leaving in your car but you were too drunk to drive…" Rukia's voice trailed off as she began to remember that specific time at the party. It sounded like she pulled the phone away as she mumbled under her breath. She was attempting to fit all the pieces of her memory back together.
"I wasn't that drunk—unlike you I can handle my liquor, plus, I HAD to go. I was the only one with a fake ID." Ichigo's eyes shot back towards the yard when a familiar flash of blue caught his attention. He watched as Grimmjow made his way towards the basketball court, his hands shoved in his pockets and his gait dripping with confidence. Despite him losing his title, he still walked around like he was cock of the walk. Even the inmates that were already in the middle of a game paused when he approached.
"You. Were. TOO. Drunk." Rukia huffed in annoyance. She obviously remembered scolding him the same exact way that night, only replace 'were' with 'are'. "Byakuya had to drag your stubborn ass into the passenger seat. I'm still surprised he agreed to take you into town, but he was probably the only sober one within a twenty-mile radius… He only drank those stupid energy drinks that entire weekend."
"Uh-huh," Ichigo nodded and his lips curled into a lopsided smirk, "I was the one who got him those drinks. I told him they would help with his training—remember he wanted to run that marathon after graduation?"
"Oh yeah! I honestly forgot about that. I think he won though, didn't he? I guess those drinks worked then?"
"Tch, maybe, I don't know." Ichigo's smirk doubled in size when Rukia made a strange sputtering noise.
"What do you mean you don't know? You're the one that convinced him to drink it!"
"The drink was just flavored water, so I doubt it actually helped with his marathon, but the reason I told him to drink was because I spiked them with acid."
Rukia's light laughter fluttered through the speaker, growing in volume with each passing second and Ichigo wished he could see her face right now.
"You didn't!"
"I did. But that's not the secret I was gonna tell you."
Rukia's voice dropped off and she patiently waited to hear more.
"So! When Byakuya managed to get me to the liquor store—he's an excellent driver while high, you'd be proud." He paused when he heard Rukia giggle, but then she silenced herself. "We were in the store buying a whole crate of booze and I look away for ONE second to pay the cashier. When I turned back, Byakuya was gone. Found him two stressful minutes later next door in a tattoo parlor with a needle on his bare ass." Ichigo could tell Rukia was ready to explode with laughter, so he hastily continued, "By the way, have I ever told you your brother has a great ass?"
"Ew, Ichigo!" She whined and then tried to revert the subject back to the tattoo itself, "What was it of?"
"That's the best part. You remember that stupid animal cartoon you used to watch?"
"Chappy and Friends!?" Then it clicked. "Noooo! He got a tattoo of Chappy?!"
"Yes!"
"Oh my god, Ichigo, I'm crying!" She laughed uncontrollably and Ichigo's smile nearly split his face in half. He knew Byakuya wouldn't appreciate him telling that particular story, but being able to leave this conversation on a happy note was worth it. "But why his ass?!"
"I dunno…" Ichigo shrugged one shoulder, "Probably because that, and his dick, are the only spots you'd never look." The content smile dropped as he looked back out the window. His heart nearly popped right through his ribs when he saw Grimmjow standing right on the other side of the glass, piercing blue eyes locked onto his frozen form like a goddamn hawk. As soon as he realized he had Ichigo's attention, Grimmjow's smirk made itself known and then he lifted his hand to reveal the basketball in his grasp.
That's when Ichigo noticed the lack of bandages and the missing arm sling. Grimmjow seemed to be feeling much better today, which was a little odd. Sure, he had a fast recovery, there was no doubt about that, but Ichigo thought he'd still need at least another week before he could move properly.
Apparently he was already healed enough to run around and shoot hoops.
Grimmjow's smirk widened ever so slightly as he pointed to Ichigo and then to the ball in his other hand. Ichigo tilted his head quizzically as he eyed the object that was the same color as his hair.
Was he being invited to play..?
Ichigo stared at the man like he'd grown a second head and then waved the phone in the air to silently say, 'I'm on the phone right now, dumbass'.
Grimmjow's lips twisted and then thinned into a stubborn line, but he didn't try to goad Ichigo into playing like he normally would. He shrugged one shoulder and then meandered his way back towards the other inmates waiting by the hoop. As he approached, Grimmjow shook his head and slowly dribbled the ball at his side. Some of the others threw up their arms in exaggerated disappointment in Ichigo's direction and one even curled his fingers around his mouth to shout something that sounded suspiciously like 'Chicken!'.
"Heh…" A small chuckle escaped him without thought and he quickly averted his gaze from the goofballs outside when he heard Rukia's own laughter die off into a sigh.
"Good times…" She said and Ichigo hummed in agreement. "So! You manage to actually make any friends over there, or is everyone just after your ass?" She asked, half serious and half playful.
"Uhmm… Yeah, I guess. My cellmate, Keigo, has been a good friend. A little weird and clingy, but he's cool, and he put his neck on the line for me a couple times. My other cellmates though…" Ichigo made a face as he thought of them. "Well… I guess Renji is starting to grow on me, but he—"
"Wait…" Rukia interrupted and Ichigo's lips snapped shut. "Did you say Renji?"
"Uh… yeah."
"Renji Abarai?"
Ichigo's brows scrunched in both surprise and confusion, "I don't know his last name… but he has red hair, tattoos, and he's kind of a prick."
"I'm not sure about the tattoos, but that sounds like him…" Rukia replied slowly. Her mind seemed to be a million miles away right now as memories engulfed her once more. "Oh god… I haven't thought about him in a very long time."
Ichigo shifted on his feet and leaned on the other divider as he thought of what to say next. He knew that Rukia had a rough childhood before she was adopted by the Kuchiki family. Honestly, Ichigo never would have guessed she and Byakuya weren't blood related—they looked very similar.
"You two were friends?"
"You could say that… I met him at the orphanage. He was the only one there I could tolerate." Ichigo heard the smile in her voice. "But that was a long time ago. I lost touch with him after I left, so I have no idea what he's like now… but, oh, hey, if he gives you ANY problems, and you wanna freak him out, then tell him the monkey-snake will catch him."
"Monkey-snake…?" He echoed heavily just to make sure he'd heard that right.
"He used to have this recurring nightmare about some creature mixed between a monkey and a snake chasing him. I used to tease him about it."
"That's just mean. What kind of friend are you?" Ichigo chastised playfully and he heard a dark chuckle in response. "But thanks. I think he knows better than to fuck with me now, but it's still good to have something to use against him. You want me to tell him you said hi?"
"... No… Well… I mean… If the opportunity comes up, then I guess that's fine, but I wouldn't bring it up unless he asks."
"Alright."
"Ichigo… I better hear from you tomorrow. Do NOT make me pack that little girl's suitcase."
Ichigo closed his eyes and tucked his arms closer to himself as if he was being surrounded by cold, damp mist.
"Well if you do, then don't forget her toothbrush and she won't go anywhere without—"
"I'm SERIOUS."
"... Yeah… I know. I'm just trying to do the right thing here, Rukia…"
Said woman didn't say anything at first and then a noise, split between a groan and a sigh, tore through the speakers.
"Just call me tomorrow! Love you! Bye!"
Beep!
Ichigo slowly hung up the phone with a smile still etched on his face.
"Love you too…" He replied under his breath and hoped that she knew.
Ichigo took a moment to gather his thoughts as he let his emotions settle. He'd made himself a mental list earlier of what he planned to do today and now he could cross off 'Call Rukia'. Next he was supposed to…
Ichigo scratched at his chin as he tried to remember. He then slid his hand upwards to run frustrated fingers through thick hair.
HAIR!
Right, he wanted to see Yumichika about that dye.
Ichigo's heels squeaked against the tiles as he spun around, ready for his next destination, but then he paused…
He hesitantly turned his head until he could look over his shoulder, back into the yard, just in time to see Grimmjow leap into the air for a slam-dunk. His prison-suit was zipped halfway with the arms tied around his waist, keeping it from falling. The white T-shirt was long gone, revealing sunkissed skin that glistened with a light sheen of sweat.
Ichigo felt the blood in his cheeks sizzle when Grimmjow hung from the hoop for a few seconds, letting his body stretch out, victorious grin devouring his face. Then he gloatingly pulled himself up, flexing and curling to show off those powerful muscles. Ichigo soaked in the picture perfect view and prided himself in not drooling, until his gaze landed on the long scar etched across his torso.
Damn. Guilt was such a boner-killer...
It still looked like it had some healing to do, but not as much as Ichigo would have thought.
Grimmjow released the metal ring and landed back on his feet with a soft stomp. He rolled his shoulders as he calmly followed the other players to set up for the next match. Before he got to his position, Grimmjow took a quick look around when he felt a familiar prickle on the back of his neck. Someone was watching him. Narrowed blue orbs roamed across the yard until his head turned towards the windows and he locked eyes with hooded chestnut. Grimmjow tilted his head, letting baby blue bangs brush across his vision, then he let loose a wide, toothy grin. When Ichigo noticed the look he immediately turned and disappeared around the corner before Grimmjow could see his face turn red.
Ichigo tried to suffocate his unreasonable libido right then and there. His dick had some high expectations if it thought for one fucking second there was any chance he'd get with Grimmjow again. That ship had sailed when he tortured the man's brother and then left him paralyzed in the middle of a fucking desert. Not to mention he beat him unconscious his first day here and unwittingly stole the man's title.
Ichigo instantly banished the memories before he could get too distracted and focused on making his way to Yumichika's cell. He knew it was a long shot to find the man in his own cell during freetime, but it would be a good place to start.
Ichigo thought maybe his luck might be showing its good side when he found both Yumichika and Ikkaku in the man's cell, until he realized they were both making out, and quite hungrily too. It was wet and loud and Yumichika was thoroughly enjoying himself while being shoved against the steel bars.
Ichigo felt heat slowly crawl from his shoulders to the tips of his ears. He shuffled awkwardly before deciding he should just come back later.
As he turned, Ikkaku peeked one eye open and immediately shot Ichigo a look. The lusty, half-lidded stare stopped him in his tracks and he watched, unabashed, as Ikkaku slid his hands up Yumichika's shirt to grab at soft skin. He did that all while twirling his tongue inside the other's mouth and keeping his eye locked with Ichigo.
Ikkaku eventually pulled away only long enough to growl, "What do you want?" And the guttural tone he used sent an aroused shiver straight to Ichigo's cock.
Shit.
Raven hair flared as Yumichika's head snapped towards the hall, but his body visibly relaxed when he realized it was just Ichigo.
"Oh. Hey there, handsome." He cooed while leaning into the solid form in front of him. He then purposefully took his hand that was most visible to Ichigo and slid it from Ikkaku's thigh to the large bulge hidden beneath black slacks. A pleasured hiss escaped Ikkaku's teeth and he buried his face in the crook of that pale, velvety neck stretched before him. "There something I can help you with?" Yumichika stroked the clothed erection very, very, slowly as he spoke, letting the tips of his fingers trace the entire outline. He knew the pace must be excruciating for Ikkaku, but there was no sympathy in his expression. Instead, violet eyes lit with excitement as they watched smoldering chestnut orbs follow every little movement his hand made.
"Uhm…" It took Ichigo a minute to redirect blood flow to his brain and he averted his gaze before speaking, "I just wanted to see if you might have that temporary dye I mentioned at breakfast.."
"Oh yeah. I've been wondering about that." With Yumichika's interest now fully piqued, he gave Ikkaku's pulsing cock one last solid squeeze that made his whole body curl in pleasure before slipping away. Ichigo couldn't help but smirk in slight amusement when he heard Ikkaku's euphoric groan morph into a whine of disapproval.
"Fuckin' tease…" The guard grumbled as he gripped the bars tightly in frustration. He pulled and pushed himself away a couple of times, almost like he was trying to mimic push-ups, before shoving himself away from the bars hard enough to make him take a few steps backwards.
"Oh, shuddup." Yumichika huffed with a flick of his hair, "You know you love it~" He winked at the man over his shoulder before returning his attention to Ichigo, "So why only dye your hair for one night?"
Once Ichigo felt his embarrassed blush fade, he gradually looked up from the floor to lock eyes with Ikkaku. He then sent him a silent message through stare alone that said, 'Can I tell him?'
Ikkaku got the message and shrugged before gesturing with his hand as if to reply, 'Up to you!'
Well if Ikkaku trusted Yumichika with the information, Ichigo guessed he could too. However, feeling a bit cautious, he stepped closer so he could whisper, "I'm going on a little… 'adventure' tonight, and it would be a lot easier if none of the other guards recognized me right away—IF they see me." He figured that was enough to share; No reason for Yumichika to be burdened with the rest of it, but the man seemed to have a pretty good understanding of what Ichigo was up to.
"I see…" He hummed and then turned to walk towards the only bed in the cell. Ichigo blinked when he finally realized there were no other bunks, which meant that Yumichika had the cell all to himself.
Guess that's the kind of comfort you earn when you're fucking one of the top correctional officers.
Ichigo felt a small smirk tilt his lip as he glanced over at Ikkaku, but the man was too busy nursing his painful erection to catch the look. Poor guy had a serious case of blue balls right now.
Yumichika dragged a small backpack from beneath his bunk and tugged open the largest pocket. He dug around for a few seconds before pulling out two small bottles. Ichigo could see that one was filled with thick, black liquid, while the other looked like that same conditioner he used to clear up his previous dye job.
Yumichika popped back to his full height and sauntered towards Ichigo, who held out his hand to retrieve the items. The inmate didn't hand them over just yet though.
"Sorry, Ichigo, but you've used up all your free favors~" Yumichika crooned with a greedy little smile on his face. Ichigo's body sagged in despair and he groaned. "No need for dramatics!" Yumichika chuckled behind his fingers.
"What's your price..?" Ichigo crossed his arms over his chest with a small sigh. He wouldn't mind if it was something small and innocent like that kiss on the lips Yumichika stole after delivering his transfer papers. However, one more look at that grin, which had no business being on such a pretty face, and Ichigo knew he wasn't going to like this next request.
"I believe I forgot to mention that my payments always come in the form of favors." Yumichika explained as he stepped closer. Ichigo tried not to tense up when a warm hand pressed against his abdomen and then traveled upwards. "And I only ever do something for men I either respect or find attractive~" Gentle fingers traveled up Ichigo's smooth neck and traced his jawline before threading through soft, orange tresses. "And you have both."
Ichigo gulped down the nervous lump in his throat when hooded, violet eyes closed in on him.
"Th-thanks…?" He almost kicked himself for stuttering like a bitch.
"You seem so nervous... Don't worry, my favors always start out small. Just remember the more you ask, the bigger they get." Yumichika's lips curled mischievously and Ichigo felt his stomach clench in dread. "I got my kiss already so the next step is a blowjob."
"Uhm… I—" Ichigo's lips became paralyzed when a single finger pressed against them. A bead of sweat rolled down his temple as he tried to suppress the irritation building up. This was Bazz-B and the damn guards all over again! He really, really, didn't want to—
"Shhh~ It's alright. I won't bite." Yumichika slowly sank to his knees while dragging the zipper to Ichigo's prison suit with him.
Oh.
OH…
OH!
Ichigo's face exploded with heat and turned as red as a tomato.
"Nooo, no! That's alright." Ichigo tried to back away but Yumichika instantly slid both hands into his now gaping suit and hooked two fingers around the waist of his boxers. The material stretched as Yumichika reeled him back in and violet eyes got a good peek of the stiffening prize inside.
Ichigo's head snapped up to lock eyes with Ikkaku and he quickly hovered his hands out to the side to show he was not in control of this situation! Ikkaku casually leaned back against the bars of the cell and crossed his arms over his chest. His face was completely blank and void of emotion, so Ichigo couldn't tell what he was thinking or feeling.
Yumichika glanced up to see that Ichigo's attention was no longer on him and that rubbed him the wrong way. With fingers still hooked around the waistband, he quickly yanked down, exposing Ichigo's semi to the cool air. The orangette immediately flinched and his wide eyes dropped back down to see Yumichika glaring up at him through strands of raven hair.
"Ignore him." The pretty man tilted his head in Ikkaku's direction without looking away so he could watch as Ichigo's lips parted to let out quick puffs of air. "Kuku likes to watch." Yumichika smirked when he noticed the erection in his face twitch with life. Ichigo won't admit it out loud, but he was excited.
A long hiss escaped clenched teeth when fingertips grazed the sensitive tip of his half-hard length. They followed along the large vein beneath until they reached the thick base and then gripped it. Yumichika eyed his appendage as it slowly swelled into full hardness. It was hot to the touch and he could feel the throb of excitement as it pulsed in his grasp. All he'd done so far is get on his knees and wrap his hand around the guy's dick, yet it looked like Ichigo was already about to burst.
He had no idea how pent up Ichigo had been feeling lately.
"You know…" Ichigo started in a low voice that made Yumichika immediately pause and look up. The orangette's confidence finally returned when he realized the situation wasn't as bad as he thought it would be. "This just seems like another favor for me." His lips tilted into an amused grin, but he kept completely still as he waited to see what the other would do next. It's not like Ichigo was going to fight him off for wanting to give a blowjob. Yet, he would still like to give the man a way out—one last attempt to change his mind at least. What he didn't realize was that Yumichika had been thinking about doing this for a while now. Ever since they found out about his identity as Reaper, EVERYONE wanted to suck his dick, but Peacock would be the first to have that bragging right.
"How can you be so cute and hot at the same time?" Yumichika grumbled up at the handsome face smirking down at him. Without further hesitation, he licked his lips and leaned forward to fully incase the cock inside his wet mouth. Ichigo's head rolled back with a long groan and he clenched his eyes shut.
"Fuck." Ichigo cursed under his breath as he tried to stay still. He really wasn't sure what to do with himself and he could still feel Ikkaku's intense stare boring into him from the side.
The guard's hooded gaze watched as his lover's head pulled back slowly and then paused to tease the tip with that talented tongue. He knew exactly what Ichigo was feeling right now and just seeing the man's reaction was a turn on itself. His gaze slowly trailed up from Yumichika's head to see Ichigo's face as he responded to the stimulation. Ikkaku licked his bottom lip in excitement when he saw orange brows scrunch in pleasure and pink lips pop open when his jaw went slack. Ichigo was still too tense though.
Pushing himself off the bars quietly, Ikkaku took his time walking towards the two. Ichigo still had his eyes closed and face pointed towards the ceiling to try and escape his embarrassment. Another groan slipped his parted lips when Yumichika's hot mouth sucked him back in. Ikkaku slowly circled around both inmates like a starved vulture in the sky. His sharp eyes snapped to Ichigo's throat when the adam's apple that was on display bobbed with a nervous gulp. It took a little while for Ichigo's body to finally relax and Yumichika helped by smoothing both hands up tense thighs. He let one hand stop to grip the man's waist but he let the other continue upwards to slip beneath his shirt. Gentle fingers prodded and caressed the hard, solid muscles he found beneath. The shirt was dragged up as curious hands roamed higher, allowing Ikkaku a peek at the goods. Both males felt their own dicks pulse at the sight. A soft moan vibrated over Ichigo's tender erection when Yumichika saw and felt the powerful muscles clench and respond to his touch.
Ichigo jumped and tried not to tense up again when he felt Ikkaku come up behind him. The back of his head settled against a broad shoulder as the man pressed closer and then a warm breath washed over his cheek. Ichigo didn't bother opening his eyes as Ikkaku softly whispered in his ear, "You should look down."
Ichigo shook his head when he felt his cheeks burn and kept his eyes stubbornly closed. Sturdy arms wrapped around him and Ichigo's body involuntarily shivered as calloused hands dragged his shirt upward. Ikkaku kept pulling it up until the bottom was tucked over Ichigo's head and caught around the nape of his neck. His front was now exposed between the zipper of his jumpsuit and Ichigo's blood pumped with excitement.
"C'mon. You gotta see what a good job he's doing." Ichigo could hear the perverted grin in Ikkaku's voice and almost laughed—he didn't need to see what Yumichika was doing when he could feel it. Every little flick and swirl of his tongue, every hard suck, and each playful tug at the base of his cock.
Fuck it.
Ichigo opened his eyes and slowly peeked down at the man kneeling below him. A shuddering gasp punched from his lungs when he locked eyes with smoldering violet orbs clouded in lust. Ichigo's gaze kept bouncing back and forth between shining lips and large eyes that were soaking in every little expanse of toned flesh that had been revealed. Yumichika's expression was intense as he lifted his hands to caress and massage Ichigo's skin—like he was being worshipped.
"Nnnnhh… guh." Was all the noise Ichigo could make when Yumichika's head pulled back with a rather powerful suck before bobbing forward again. He repeated the action with vigor and eventually closed his violet eyes to concentrate on not choking.
"He likes it when you touch his hair." Ikkaku whispered into Ichigo's ear and the man had to bite his lip to hold back a strange sound. Having a sturdy body pressed against him while his dick was sucked into an eager mouth… well… This was definitely a new experience for Ichigo.
He gnawed on his bottom lip still trapped between his teeth and finally relaxed both fists hovering at his side. Ichigo reached for silky raven hair with both hands and the reaction was immediate. His back arched away from Ikkaku when Yumichika suddenly moaned loudly around his cock. The vibrations felt so fucking good. He lightly tugged at the tresses between his fingers and slid them back until his palms rested on either side of the man's temple. That earned him another hummer and Ichigo's head collapsed back onto Ikkaku's shoulder. Even with his eyes closed he could still hear the wet smacking sounds Yumichika's lips made as he moved his head back and forth.
"Now…" Ikkaku's voice had returned and it was just adding fuel to an already smoldering fire. "Hold his head still and rock your hips." At this point Ichigo was in too much pleasure to argue back and, even through the euphoric fog, he couldn't think of a good reason why he shouldn't. "Yeahhh~ Just like that." Ikkaku growled quietly as he looked over Ichigo's shoulder and watched as Yumichika's head was held in place. Then he smirked when violet eyes widened in realization. His lover barely had time to brace himself before Ichigo was thrusting down his willing throat. The sound Yumichika made was muffled but still loud enough to catch the attention of some inmates that were passing by.
"Oh my~ A free show."
Ichigo quickly removed his hands and went to back away, but Ikkaku had him trapped and Yumichika wasn't about to go anywhere.
"Shit. Shit. Shit." He chanted through clenched teeth as his balls tightened with an impending orgasm, but there was no fucking way he was busting a nut in front of an audience. Feeling extremely embarrassed, Ichigo quickly tried to hide his face in the crook of Ikkaku's neck while both hands reached back to automatically grab at his black slacks. The guard lifted his head to look passed Ichigo and frowned when he realized it was just Luppi and Yammy.
Yammy didn't seem too interested in what was happening and turned away with a sneer, but didn't leave without Luppi. The smallest of the whole group was smirking as he leaned against the bars of the cell.
"Get lost." Ikkaku snarled. When Luppi didn't immediately do as he was told, baldy reached for the taser at his belt.
"Woah. Alright." Luppi lifted both hands in surrender as he pushed off the bars. "I'll just catch you later then, bro." The words were aimed towards Yumichika and Ichigo was too busy attempting to turn invisible through sheer willpower alone to really catch what was being said.
Luppi's lip rose in irritation when all he received was a dismissive wave over the shoulder from Yumichika, but he said nothing as he stormed away. Yammy took one last glance at the scene before scoffing in disgust then turned to follow the smaller male. Now that the onlookers were gone, Ichigo felt like he could breathe again. He went to look back down, but a firm hand wrapped around his forehead and pulled it all the way back, straining his neck and making his back arch. He was teetering on the edge of his orgasm now and Yumichika was doing such a great job on his cock, but… Ichigo felt like he needed a little something extra to push him over the edge.
His eyes shot open when teeth grazed against the visible tendon along the side of his neck. Ikkaku nipped the skin, tasting it, testing it. Ichigo silently encouraged the man by tilting his head in the opposite direction to expose his throat, and Ikkaku gladly took the invitation. Arms wrapped firmly around him and Ichigo winced when the radio dug into his shoulder blade, but then he shuddered as teeth clamped down on his flesh.
THAT'S what he needed~
"M'coming." Ichigo was able to growl his warning to Yumichika just in case he wanted to pull away, but the man kept his lips wrapped firmly around Ichigo. He even pushed forward until the tip slid all the way down his throat and orange pubic hair tickled his nose. Ichigo could feel the man's smirk as he hummed one last, glorious moan around the pulsing flesh.
Ichigo's body tensed and he choked on a groan as he came. Every spurt was swallowed up and Yumichika made sure he was sucked dry before finally backing away. Ichigo shivered and his skin burned pleasurably when Yumichika kissed his way up Ichigo's torso until he was back on his feet. His lips eventually came to a stop once he reached Ikkaku's teeth, which were still latched to Ichigo's throat. Yumichika coaxed the man's mouth away with gentle nips until he could get a proper kiss. Ichigo had a close up view of it this time as he was squished between both bodies and it made his breath hitch. Ikkaku's tongue was long and twisted expertly between the same mouth that had just been around Ichigo's dick. Said man swallowed hard and felt his mouth go dry when they both began to grind against him. His own softening erection twitched with interest at the excited movements, but then he managed to wriggle his way out. Yumichika's lips popped from Ikkaku's and his breath came in heavy pants as he tried to catch his breath.
"Heheh…" Ikkaku chuckled at the dazed expression on his lover's face. "Go ahead and grab that stuff, I'll finish up in here." He didn't spare Ichigo another glance as he scooped Yumichika up and quickly tossed him on the bed. Even with what just happened, Ichigo's face burned with a blush as he watched Ikkaku pounce on the inmate. "...'Less you wanna stay..?" Ikkaku raised a brow towards the man who looked like his feet were glued to the floor.
"N-no. Uhm… Rain check. Maybe..?" Ichigo scratched his head nervously with one hand as he tucked himself back into his boxers. He then ducked down to grab the bottles of hair product and refused to look up and meet their eyes as he quickly shuffled out. He stuffed the supplies in his pocket and then reached back to pull his shirt back over his head. He brushed his hands over the material as he pulled it down before zipping his suit all the way up.
He had to take a minute to calm his racing heart and ask himself, 'did that really just happen?' before he could feel composed. He then took a couple of steps towards his own cell, since it was only a few feet away and he still needed to talk to his cellmates, but he paused when he heard Ikkaku's radio chirp to life.
BLP.
'Zaraki speaking. Anyone got eyes on inmate 156?'
The next sound to reach his ears was the tiny squeak of a mattress and Yumichika's disappointed groan as Ikkaku quickly rolled off the bed. Ichigo turned at the sound of quick bootsteps and saw Ikkaku's head poke out of the cell. He seemed relieved that Ichigo was still in the hall.
Man, this guy was a little too excited to do Zaraki's bidding, wasn't he? Seemed like the last thing he'd want to do is disappoint him. Not that Ichigo could really blame him, he'd never want to be on Kenpachi's bad side either… but this was something a little different.
Ikkaku instantly reached up to the radio at his shoulder and clicked it on to reply, "Ikkaku speaking, sir, he's with me." His eyes narrowed when he noticed the way Ichigo's lips suddenly curled into a knowing grin. He released the radio before growling, "What're you smirkin' at?" The look instantly dropped and Ichigo shrugged, but there was still a gleam in those chestnut orbs that made Ikkaku frown.
BLP
'Good. He's got visitors, so bring'm to visiting room B.'
"VisitorSS?" Ichigo repeated with emphasis as he stepped closer.
Ikkaku ignored the inquiry as he reached for his radio once more. "Sure thing, Captain." He turned long enough to meet Yumichika's gaze and winced at the glare. "I'll be right back."
An angry breath huffed through the inmate's nose as he hopped back to his feet. He stormed over with narrowed eyes until he was directly in front of Ikkaku and then—
SLAP!
Ichigo flinched and immediately stepped out of the way as Yumichika brushed passed him. He looked back up to see the red, hand-shaped mark blossoming across Ikkaku's cheek, but the man didn't seem as offended as he should be. Instead of being mad or upset, there was a hungry glimmer in his gaze as he watched Yumichika's ass disappear down the hall.
"Uhm… You good?" Ichigo's voice snapped him out of his trance and he cleared his throat to brush off what just happened. Ichigo glanced down and then quickly shot his head towards the ceiling when Ikkaku tried to discreetly wedge his noticeable erection up into the waistband of his pants.
"Let's get moving." Ikkaku started marching in the right direction and Ichigo fought off the amused noise he wanted to make as he followed behind. Ikkaku and Yumichika had the kind of relationship worthy of a soap opera special.
It was quiet the whole way there and Ichigo recognized the room as the same one he'd first spoken to Byakuya about his transfer. It's funny how only a week and a half seemed so far away now.
Ikkaku herded Ichigo through the metal detector and he noticed it was Cang guarding this area today. The man only glanced in Ichigo's direction, refusing to meet his gaze. Chestnut eyes narrowed at the guy who almost drowned him, but then he shook off the emotions. He knew Cang was just following Bazz-B's lead, but the guy certainly seemed to be enjoying himself while tormenting Ichigo.
Cang rose a hand to Ikkaku as they passed, but baldy didn't reciprocate the greeting.
Good.
The door was opened and Ikkaku stepped aside to let Ichigo walk in first. The inmate nodded his thanks before taking a step through but then immediately came to a halt when something small and familiar latched to his legs. His heart melted into a puddle of goo when he heard that little, lispy voice.
"ITSUGO!" Nel garbled into his suit and he looked down to see big grey eyes overflowing with tears. "I mished you!" Ichigo slowly sunk to his knees and was too choked up to say anything so he just carefully wrapped the little bundle into his arms. A small but happy smile crossed his face as tiny arms immediately circled his neck. He chuckled when Nel rubbed her face against his head, probably wiping all kinds of snot and tears in his hair, but he really couldn't care less at the moment.
"Hey, big brother."
Ichigo's eyes snapped up and he finally took in the other occupants of the room. Byakuya, he had been expecting, but his heart fluttered all over again when he saw both of his sisters.
"Yuzu! Karin!" He greeted and his smile kept growing in size. "I didn't expect to see you guys! Did Rukia know you were coming? Does Dad know you're here?" His big brother instincts kicked in at the last moment when he remembered his two little sisters and only daughter were currently in a prison.
Karin rolled her eyes and crossed her arms across her chest while Yuzu walked forward. Ichigo slowly straightened back to his full height, with Nel still latched around him like a necklace, and reached out an arm invitingly when Yuzu got close. Her face, which was usually so hopeful and full of love, was puckered in frustration and disappointment. Her bottom lip quivered as her emotions bubbled to the surface and then she fell, face-first into Ichigo's chest. The orangette pursed his lips and slowly wrapped his free arm around her, hugging firmly.
"I'm so sorry, Yuzu…" He mumbled softly into her long, light-brown hair. He lifted his hand to pet her soft tresses and gave her a comforting kiss on the head when he heard a hiccup followed by a sniffle.
Ichigo glanced over Yuzu to lock eyes with Karin, but she seemed perfectly okay with staying where she was. He could tell she was still happy to see him, but the rest of her emotions were more angry than sad.
Her black hair was pulled up into a tight ponytail and she wore dark jeans with a shirt splattered in colorful images of some band Ichigo didn't recognize. Her sneakers were crusted in mud, probably fresh from soccer practice today. Yuzu, on the other hand, wore a flowery sundress with sandals and her hair was tied back in loose pigtails.
Even though they were twins, they'd always been so yin and yang.
While Ichigo was distracted with comforting Nel and his sisters, Byakuya was the only one who noticed Ikkaku reach for his belt. The guard stepped forward with fingers around his handcuffs. Byakuya wanted to say something, but he knew that Ichigo had to be restrained—Due to all the fights. Technically, he shouldn't even be touching anyone, let alone hold them for a long period of time…
Ebony brows rose in slight surprise when Ikkaku quietly rubbed his nape in frustration and then turned to lean against the far wall, hands dropping from his belt.
He wasn't going to cuff him?
Byakuya smirked for a split second when the guard locked eyes with him, but neither of them said a word. Ichigo had a natural talent for making allies in almost any situation, and it seemed Ikkaku got snagged up in his web of friendship. It was always hard to say 'no' to the orangette who willingly throws himself into harm's way for others.
"We thought it best if Rukia didn't know the girls were also coming. Didn't want her to feel left out... Plus, she would have followed us out of spite." Byakuya finally spoke up, catching Ichigo's attention.
"And dad knows we're here." Karin chimed in, "Yuz and I were at the house when Inoue stopped by this morning. She asked Dad if he could take Nel to see you… but obviously he's not gonna come here, so WE offered."
"Obviously…?" Ichigo echoed, a little confused by that specific choice in wording.
Karin raised a brow at Ichigo's bewilderment but then something seemed to click and she looked at him with sympathy in her eyes.
"You don't know, do you?"
Ichigo felt dread swell in his chest and he gently tightened his hold on the quiet bundle still wrapped around his neck. Nel's sniffles had died down but she refused to let him go and, in that moment, Ichigo needed her as much as she needed him.
"What don't I know..?" He asked but then shook his head before Karin could actually answer, "No. You know what? Don't. I have enough on my mind right now. If you're trying to tell me that my own father turned me in, then…" Ichigo trailed off and smooshed his cheek against the top of sea-green hair. "Wait... How did he even find out? I never told you guys about any of this."
Yuzu mumbled something but it was muffled by Ichigo's chest. Frowning, he carefully pried the girl's head away so he could look her in the eye.
"What was that?"
"... We're not really sure…" She reached up to swipe at a stray tear that managed to escape, "All he told us was that he got a call from an old friend. We tried to make him tell us more, but he wouldn't talk! Karin even kicked him so hard she almost broke his leg, and I threatened to stop making lunches for him… but nothing." She moved to fall into Ichigo's hold again, but this time he slowly shook his head and stepped away from the embrace.
Yuzu frowned but tried not to take it personally, she knew this must be a lot for Ichigo to take in right now.
Ichigo quietly made his way to the table in the middle of the room and sat on the first empty chair he found. He then settled Nel into his lap. He had to tickle her sides before she would even consider releasing her arms from around his neck.
"Nooooooo! Itsugo!" Nel cried as laughter bubbled up uncontrollably. When he stopped, her forced smile dropped and she sat back to pout at him. "Where have you been!?" She crossed her arms and gave him that same look that he would give her whenever she wandered off. Ichigo's mood lifted little by little at the cute display.
"I missed you too, Nel." He ruffled her hair and smiled at the adorable glare he received for it. "I heard you made a friend at school! Tell me about that."
Nel's face lit up like magic and stars practically shot from her eyeballs.
"YES! Yesth! Yes! Her name isth Yachiru! She's got pretty pink hair!" Her lisp popped in every now and then and it made Ichigo's insides melt. "She'sth really cool! Oh! Yesthderday, at da pwayground, Nel met thwree scary beasts! They pushed Nel and made me eat sand," Nel paused to giggle when Ichigo's face scrunched into an angry scowl.
"Who dared do that to Nel!?" Ichigo exaggerated his growl and ducked in low to almost be eye level with her.
"Uhmmm… Sun-Sun…" She lifted a fist and popped out a finger as she counted off her bullies, "Rose… anddd… Apashi?" Grey eyes rolled up towards the ceiling as Nelliel tried to remember. "But don't worry, Icshigo! Yachiru helped me chase them away!"
Ichigo felt a small, relieved smile brighten his face, "That's great!" He was happy to hear that her new friend wasn't a pushover.
"But… Sun-Sun called me a fweak, and a scarface, and a dummy, and—and they laughed at my hair…" Nel's excitement from before withered as she spoke about her bullies and Ichigo wished he could have been there for her. He felt his heart melt and he wasn't sure what to say when Nel reached up and pulled her bangs down until it covered the scar across her forehead. A scar that HE put there.
"Aww! Nel! They're just jealous. I think Nel's hair is very pretty."
The little girl looked up when thin fingers ran through her hair and locked eyes with her aunt Karin. Ichigo smiled at the rare display of affection his sister was showing. Karin was a tomboy—through and through, she wasn't really built for tender moments like these, but she obviously had a soft spot for Nel.
"Yeah! They're just a bunch of meanies that are mad because they aren't as pretty! Would you like us to braid it?" Yuzu offered with a big smile as she also smoothed her fingers through Nel's hair, which had grown much longer since Ichigo last saw her.
Nel's face lit up again and she reached her arms out to Yuzu in an eager sign to be picked up. Ichigo watched with a content smile as his other sister picked her up by the armpits and then settled her onto Karin's lap, who rolled her eyes but didn't say anything against it. Nel giggled when Yuzu started parting her hair and crooning over how soft it was.
"Ehem…"
Ichigo's head snapped to see Byakuya in the seat to his left. He was looking at him with a brow raised expectantly and Ichigo realized he hadn't greeted the man yet. Ichigo scoffed with a small, fond grin and said, "Hey Byakuya."
Said man nodded in return then tilted his head towards the girls, "While they're busy, we have some things to discuss."
Ichigo pursed his lips and then let a slow sigh empty his lungs.
"Alright, let's get this over with."
Byakuya chose not to comment on the apathetic reaction and reached for his little, black, leather briefcase. Ichigo crossed his arms then leaned back in his chair with a smirk. He always loved it when the man went into full lawyer mode, it was kind of hot—not that he'd ever admit it out loud. It had been the only perk to dealing with his cold attitude during the trial.
Ichigo blinked when a manila folder was placed before him. He reached for it but was stopped when Byakuya placed a hand over his.
"Before you open that, I want to talk about this…" He lifted his cell phone and held it sideways towards Ichigo so he could see the image on the screen.
Shit.
He could already tell from the single paused frame exactly what the video was, but Byakuya pressed play anyway. He watched as the angle shifted. The camera was lifted upwards to look above the crowd of inmates. Then he saw himself in the midst of everything, his arms locked around Zangetsu and dagger pressed to his pale throat.
If this video was on the internet then that couldn't be good for Yhwach's Senatorship campaign. Guess he wasn't able to keep that reporter, Riruka, from releasing the video, or had the camera been rolling live the whole time?
"Kill him!"
"Yeah kill him! Slice him up!"
"Blood. Blood! BLOOD!"
The chanting began and Ichigo nearly sighed. He didn't want to relive this fucked up shit.
"Hey!" He heard his own voice yell from the device, and it caught Nel's attention for a moment before Yuzu and Karin distracted her. "Enough already! No more blood!" From the way they actively kept her attention, Ichigo assumed they must have already seen the video.
Then that's when Bazz-B came in. He watched silently as the pink haired bastard in the video opened his big mouth and helped Ichigo piece together why Zangetsu hated his guts. Ichigo never realized that Riruka recorded this much. How long had they and the warden been standing there?
Once the video reached a certain point, Ichigo closed his eyes and just listened.
"I ain't done with you yet, Reaper! You're a dead man! Ya hear me!? You're fuckin' dead!"
Those were the last words he'd heard from Zangetsu and that's when Byakuya finally paused the video.
"First of all… I knew you were put in solitary for a week because of a fight, but I had no idea you already outed yourself as Reaper to the entire prison." Byakuya frowned at Ichigo, but the man still had his eyes stubbornly closed. "And secondly, I wanted to remind you that if you free this man, he's going to try and KILL you."
Ichigo couldn't stop the sigh this time.
"Rukia already lectured me about it… I'm not changing my mind and, yes—okay? I told them I'm Reaper, but it was the only way I could stop him from killing Grimmjow." He explained. Byakuya didn't seem impressed.
"Wasn't he the same man you punched senseless your first day here?" He shot back.
"Well…" Ichigo scratched his cheek and opened his eyes only to look at the ceiling to avoid the man's piercing gaze. "That was when I thought he was responsible for my arrest—I never expected it to be dad." Ichigo's teeth clenched in frustration. "Is it really true…?" He let his gaze drop back down so he could lock eyes with Byakuya, and the man kept a steady gaze as he answered.
"Unfortunately, yes." His heart went out to Ichigo when the man crumpled in his chair, all fight seemingly left his body at once. "I… I must confess that I figured you would blame that other guy at first-and I purposefully let you think that. I didn't want to be the one to tell you that your father..." Byakuya trailed off when he felt that no more words really needed to be said. He couldn't bring himself to say it after seeing Ichigo's defeated expression. Byakuya gave the hand still under his a comforting squeeze before gesturing to the folder.
Ichigo didn't react much but gave a grateful nod before sliding the papers towards himself. He really couldn't be mad at Byakuya. Not after everything the man has done, and is still doing for him.
Just like the folder Kisuke showed him yesterday, it had Zangetsu's name written at the top (oddly without the 'Jr.'). However, when he opened it, there were no pictures of the man this time. There was a small stack of documents about his trial and sentencing, but then he got to the last page and sighed through his nose. It was a list of previous misdemeanors and felony charges. Most of them were drug related—Guess Zangetsu didn't just learn the 'art of dealing' in prison.
The convictions weren't all that horrible, but this meant Zangetsu already had a reputation, so Byakuya couldn't appeal for any mistrials.
Ichigo might not have a degree in law, but he knew a thing or two thanks to Byakuya because he would sometimes vent about his cases. It didn't happen often, but Ichigo was the only one he ever felt comfortable talking to.
"So… You have any other options?"
Byakuya reached up to rub his temple in frustration.
"No… and that's why I showed you that video. I really don't think it's a good idea for you to confess for that man—especially now that people know you're Reaper. That security footage used in Zangetsu's trial was the only real evidence you've left behind, but it's also when you started leaving behind your calling card, which was... what was it again?"
"Huh? Oh, you mean the symbol I used to leave behind? My handmade cards with the drawing of my mask. I actually got the idea from Rukia's doodles." Ichigo explained in a distracted way as he skimmed through Zangetsu's papers until he found the photo of said card. He lifted it to show Byakuya exactly what he was talking about.
"Right.. So no one can actually accuse you unless you go to the court and tell them yourself… Just drop it, Ichigo." Byakuya carefully pried the file from the other's hands and then grabbed the sulking man by his jaw. Long fingers dug into smooth cheeks and he turned Ichigo's head until chestnuts eyes were forced to lock onto Nel and the twins. "Let me approve your transfer today so you can forget about this and get back to them." Byakuya leaned forward so the others couldn't hear him say, "They need you, Ichigo."
Said man shook off the hold on his face and then turned back to give Byakuya a stubborn glare.
"You already know I won't back down, not now. Especially not after I found out what they've been doing to him."
Byakuya lifted a brow and plopped backwards in his chair with a frustrated scowl.
"Alright… tell me what you found out."
Ichigo's lips lifted into a crooked smile at the defeated tone. It wasn't often he got to see Byakuya's ice crack. He shot a quick look at Ikkaku, who was watching the exchange with interest, but didn't seem concerned. Ichigo wanted to assume that Kisuke already explained everything to the man.
"That counselor, Dr. Aizen, he's doing weird experiments on the inmates here—and not just to Zangetsu, but to others as well. That's why he looks like that." Ichigo gestured to Byakuya's phone, which had been set aside, but the screen was still paused on Zangetsu's angry face. "I don't know if you managed to find a photo of him before he was locked up, but he used to have black hair and normal eyes. That counselor is experimenting on him, and I can't just stand by and let that shit go!" Ichigo slammed a fist on the table for emphasis, but he quickly calmed himself when the three girls on the other side of the table looked up.
Byakuya was unfazed by his outburst.
"Is there any proof? You know I'd help you with this, but my hands are tied unless you have solid proof."
"I'm aware. And I'm working on it. Hopefully after tonight things will work out… but just do me a favor and keep your phone on you." Ichigo was tired of this conversation and he was happy for the distraction when he felt a tug on his pant leg. He looked down to see Nel standing next to him, her cute yellow dress swaying as she squirmed and twirled in place. Yuzu had styled her hair into a long french braid and it was adorable. "Awww Nel. You look like a princess."
The little girl's face turned red and she shuffled her feet but the huge smile aimed at Ichigo filled him with a new surge of energy. She was just too precious for words.
Oh!
That reminded him!
Ichigo quickly reached into his pocket to retrieve the letter he had written for Nel.
He almost forgot about it.
Yes, yes… He wrote the silly death letter for Nel.
And it was written in crayon, no less.
He handed the folded piece of paper to Byakuya and then leaned in to whisper, "This is… just in case something goes wrong. I want you to add this to my will and keep it safe…"
Byakuya took the paper, face expressionless, and asked in the same soft tone, "A death wish..?"
Ichigo chose not to respond and Byakuya was silent the rest of the visit. He just watched as Ichigo chatted with his family, looking much more relaxed with Nel in his lap. The little girl was content to simply lay back against his stomach like he was a lawn chair. She and Ichigo listened with similar smiles on their faces as aunt Karin talked about her soccer matches in detail. The minutes ticked by and Ichigo jumped when Ikkaku placed a firm hand on his shoulder.
"Sorry, but time's up…" The guard reluctantly explained when wide chestnut eyes snapped up. "It's ten minutes 'till lunch."
"What? Really?" Ichigo didn't realize it had been that long. He still had a lot to do and the day was slipping through his fingers.
Shit.
"Alright." Ichigo looked down to see Nel curled up against him, fast asleep. Yuzu giggled and stretched out her arms to take the girl. Ichigo was careful not to wake her as he gently transferred the precious bundle. "It was great seeing you guys. Thanks for visiting… You have no idea how much I needed this." Ichigo said softly.
Yuzu patted his chest with a smile and leaned up to give him a peck on the cheek before walking towards the door. Karin, on the other hand, stepped up to her brother with arms crossed defensively, but Ichigo could tell she wanted some form of affection too.
He held out his arms to offer a hug, but she just turned her nose up at him. Ichigo smirked and finally understood when he noticed the very light dust of red on her cheeks: She didn't want to ruin her 'tough' persona in front of Yuzu and Byakuya. He chuckled and grabbed the front of her shirt to pull her in for a forceful embrace. She resisted, of course—she didn't want to seem like she wanted it, but Ichigo felt the way her muscles relaxed and he chuckled when her face pressed against his shoulder.
"I'll call you guys when I can and you know where to find me if you want to visit." He said and lifted Karin off the ground with a solid squeeze. She was grinning when he finally released her, but she quickly let it drop before following Yuzu out of the room.
Ikkaku held the door open and pointedly glanced at Byakuya, who was now standing side by side with Ichigo. The orangette rose a brow when his lawyer and longtime friend refused to move. He was looking straight into Ichigo's eyes, and he got the feeling that Byakuya wanted to say something but seemed conflicted.
"Hey… Can you give us just one more minute..?" Ichigo asked and he had to peel his gaze away from that intense onyx stare.
Ikkaku was obviously holding back an eyeroll but then he threw his hands up into the air, "Fine. Yanno, they should call you 'Princess' 'stead of 'King', cuz you always get your fucking way, huh?" The guard was flustered and lashing out for some reason but then Ichigo remembered how he interrupted the man's alone time with Yumichika. Poor guy wanted to go!
"Woah, easy there. Unless he's getting released tomorrow or something, I'm sure Peacock's not going anywhere. Relax." Ichigo grinned devilishly and it made Ikkaku swallow hard. They glared back and forth for a moment but then Ikkaku relented, choosing not to further engage the inmate.
"You got one minute." Ikkaku grumbled and then slammed the door shut behind him.
As soon as they were alone, Ichigo blinked in surprise when a large hand suddenly grabbed him by the back of the neck and pulled him forward. Soft, velvety lips crashed into his more chapped ones and Ichigo's whole body went rigid.
W-what?
Before he could comprehend what was happening, the table was pressing against the back of his thighs and Byakuya's lips were insistently melding to his.
There was no tongue or teeth, it was just a kiss filled with hidden emotions and suppressed desires. Ichigo slowly melted under the man's touch once the shock finally wore off. His eyelids fell halfway and he parted his lips in a welcome invitation, but Byakuya didn't take advantage of it. The man pulled away with an unreadable expression, and Ichigo, in that moment, truly understood the phrase 'leave them wanting more'.
This was unfair!
Of course he'd thought of the beautiful man standing before him in a sexual way before. Of all the years they've known each other… after all the icy stares and cold shoulders and silent treatments, NOW Byakuya decides to show this vulnerable side?
"Woah… Where was this years ago?" Was all Ichigo could say in response to what just happened. Byakuya kept up the emotionless façade as he brought his face forward to hover parted lips over the other's. Ichigo tilted his head and waited with bated breath for what would happen next. An excited shiver ran through his whole body when hands slid up his sides and kept traveling up until fingers lightly caressed his neck.
"You seem so hellbent on getting yourself killed… If this is really the last time I get to see you, then I wanted you to know how I feel. I could never bring myself to tell you before, because… well… Kuchiki's can't have relationships like this. I'd be banished immediately… That's why I never…" Byakuya let his mouth brush against Ichigo's ever so gently and he felt an excited, shuddering breath puff against his face. "However… I'd be willing to live with the consequences if you promised to drop whatever you're about to do. Just let me transfer you, Ichigo." There was a speck of emotional strain towards the end, and said man swallowed when it felt like an anchor had suddenly plummeted down his throat and crashed into his stomach.
This was Byakuya's last ditch effort to change Ichigo's mind.
And dammit, it almost worked.
Feeling a little greedy and reckless, Ichigo boldly dove his fingers into long, conditioned, ebony tresses before ducking forward to lock lips once more.
Fuck.
He'd always wanted to do that.
Ichigo lightly nipped at the man's bottom lip, silently requesting him to open his mouth.
Byakuya started this, and Ichigo would be damned if he didn't get a proper fucking kiss before they parted ways now.
It took some coaxing, but even the great Byakuya couldn't hold himself back forever. Like a switch had suddenly been flicked on, Byakuya grabbed Ichigo's hips and lifted him up to settle him down on the table. Ichigo parted his legs automatically and wrapped his fingers eagerly into cloud-soft hair. Byakuya tilted his head and pressed forward before finally opening his mouth. Ichigo instantly took initiative and swirled his tongue around the other's more tentative one. Despite being aggressive with his hands—touching and grabbing and tugging at orange locks, Byakuya was surprisingly coy with the kiss. He allowed Ichigo free reign and hummed to show he was at least enjoying himself.
Ichigo flicked his tongue up and pressed it against the roof of the other's mouth. He then dragged the wet muscle backwards against the ridges to curl around those pearly whites. While Byakuya was concentrating on that talented tongue, Ichigo slipped his hands under the front of his button-down shirt. He felt the solid muscles tense beneath his touch and sucked on a pink bottom lip when he felt heat pool in his gut.
KNOCK KNOCK!
"Hey! Minute's up! Let's fuckin' go!"
Ichigo smirked when he heard a small growl escape Byakuya's throat, but then the professional man stepped away and smoothed down his shirt. But he didn't say anything.
He was waiting for Ichigo to speak first.
Ichigo would rather jump off a thousand foot tower than have to think of the right words to say that wouldn't completely break this man's heart…
"I…" Ichigo hesitated. Would it be worse to just walk out the door?
Yeah.
Definitely.
"I would be lying if I said I hadn't thought of you this way before." Ichigo licked his lips and his eyes darkened into a deep auburn. "If I knew you liked me that way, I would have made a move a long time ago," Then his expression fell and he hopped off the table as he continued, "But it's too late for that. I promised I would help stop that counselor… but I'm not planning on dying tonight."
"Then why give me this?" Byakuya retrieved Nel's note to wave it in the air before returning it to his suit pocket.
"It's just in case! I like to be prepared for anything… don't worry. I'll be extra careful and nothing should go wrong."
"HEY! Don't make me open this door!" Ikkaku's angry snarl could be heard straight through the metal door, clear as day.
"I'll give you a call tomorrow, okay?" Ichigo walked over to the door and pulled it open just so Ikkaku wouldn't make a scene, but he ignored the guard to turn back and smirk at Byakuya. "Oh, and if you want to set up a conjugal visit some time this week, that might be fun~" Ichigo's smirk widened when Byakuya—THE Byakuya blushed.
Oh this was so good.
Too bad he didn't have a camera.
Ichigo gave the flustered man a parting wink and turned back without another word. He saw Ikkaku's annoyed glare, but didn't comment. He let the guard shove him through the metal detector and back towards his cellblock.
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TBC
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