Does anyone else get the feeling that this is moving along a bit fast? I kinda do, too. Oh well. It's my story and my fingers just type what my brain wants. I hope this chapter isn't too OOC but you gotta remember, they're older than from when we knew them in bleach. Disclaimer? I already typed it. It doesn't state anywhere in the rules that I have to type it for every chapter. Anyway...
Michael cleared his throat, breaking the silence in the room. Sachiel pushed Ichigo gently away from her, sitting up as she swung her legs over the side of the table. She looked at him curiously for a moment before nodding her head to him.
Hopping off the table, she made her way to the stairs, Ichigo behind her as well as the other angels. As she went through the door, she changed her clothing from her blood soaked armor to a pair of capri pants and a tank top.
Entering the living room, everyone was surprised to see her in perfect health despite being so badly burned and mangled not an hour before. She ignored the curious stares as she made her way to Ulquiorra and Jo.
"Please move aside, Orihime," she said commandingly.
The woman jumped, surprised at hearing Sachiel's voice. Ulquiorra also looked up at her, his surprise not showing as he took in her healed body. He nodded to her, moving aside as Inoue took back her shun shun rikka before moving aside as well. Sachiel took up her spot, kneeling beside the couch. She put a hand on Jo's forehead, closing her eyes as she scanned her soul. Pulling a vial from her pocket, she pulled the stopper before reaching a hand behind the girl's head, tilting it a little.
The glowing black liquid inside the vial was poured into her mouth, her throat reflexively swallowing it. The glow from the liquid began to suffuse through the girl's body, coalescing at her chest. Ulquiorra couldn't see any change in her body. Suddenly, her chest stopped rising with her breathing…her heart had stopped.
"What did you do," Ulquiorra cried angrily, grabbing a hold of Sachiel's arm. "You were supposed to save her! She's dead!"
Sachiel looked at Ulquiorra, her eyes angry as she leveled them to his. "You doubt me? After all we've been through, you think that I would betray you?" She pulled his hand away from her arm, crushing it slightly as she stood. "She had to die in order for me to put her soul back in her. She had to die in order for her soul to learn how to survive on its own." Her hands began to glow a deep gold as she concentrated her energies there. Holding her hands before her, she began to knead the energy, spinning it into an orb as she layered another energy over the top of it. Around her feet, her power radiated against the floor, creating a shimmering golden circle there. She pulled more energy into the orb before suddenly splaying her fingers, releasing the energy over the girl on the couch.
A golden pillar encased the girl, wisps of energy flowing upward. At first, nothing happened. Suddenly, a slight movement of her chest began as if expelling a breath. The next rise of her chest brought a deeper breath. The color began to return to her skin.
Forming another red orb in her hands, Sachiel released it again on the girl, the light encasing her once more. She repeated the action once more before she was satisfied. Turning away from Jo, she put a hand on Ulquiorra's shoulder, giving a gentle squeeze before moving back. With a snap of her fingers, Ulquiorra and Jordan were removed from the living room.
"Where.." Renji began to ask.
"In his room," she answered. "I'm sure he didn't want to have you all as a witness to his emotions."
"She…lives," Inoue asked.
Sachiel turned to her, nodding. "It's late. I suggest we all find a bed for the night," she said, walking toward the staircase. "The two couches turn into beds if you would like to use them, Toshiro, Rangiku. There's blankets in the closet."
"Sachiel," Michael called to her. She stopped, turning toward him. She nodded to him, turning around and making her way out the front door.
Ichigo followed behind her, as did Michael. Gabriel had already left and from the sudden glow coming from the windows, Raphael and Uriel had left as well. Toshiro and Rangiku followed Ichigo; Renji, Ishida, Inoue and Sado not far behind.
They found Sachiel talking quietly to her brother, her face showing her fatigue even though she smiled at him. They couldn't hear what she said to him but saw her lay a hand on his cheek before pulling him to her, kissing his other cheek.
She stepped away, standing straight with her hands above her head. A black funnel began to appear around her, changing as silver began to thread through it. Ichigo could hear the words this time as she chanted in the vortex, her aura beginning to glow silvery green, her eyes turning almost white as she worked her power.
The vortex grew wider, enveloping everyone again as it had before when she'd repaired the house. The only difference was, this time she was pulling time back around the world. She would only rewind it by a day but it would be sufficient.
As the winds began to recede, a shimmering figure began to appear beside Michael. Sachiel let her feet touch the ground again, her head bowed as she heard her brother exclaim in happiness. Now she was tired, worn out from doing a resurrection and turning the world back. The damage done by the battle would be undone, everything restored as it should be.
She turned in time to see Michael and Terra disappear together. Her eyes searched for Ichigo, the man coming forward as she began to sway. He caught her just before she fell, holding her close to him.
"Can you walk," he asked her.
"If you help me," she answered weakly.
He turned to their friends, scooping her up in his arms as he felt her collapse beside him. "I'm putting her to bed. I'll be down in a minute to help you with those couches, Toshiro."
For once, Hitsugaya said nothing to correct him for how he was addressed. He simply nodded before going back into the house. Ichigo was the last one in, Sachiel in his arms as she began to doze lightly.
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After helping Toshiro and Rangiku get situated on the couches, Ichigo had gone back upstairs to Sachiel's room. Rangiku had teased him continuously about his sharing a bed with the angel, winking at him as he finished the couches.
He closed the door gently behind him, the soft lamplight filling the room. He smiled. They didn't often use the lamp but she would leave it on if he didn't retire at the same time she did.
She lay on her side, her back to him. He could hear the soft sound of her deep and even breathing as she slept. He changed into his shorts, leaving the t-shirt off as he moved to the lamp to turn it off. In the darkness, he pulled back the cover, slipping into bed beside her. Pulling her close to him, he spooned against her, giving her a light squeeze before letting his eyes drift closed. He would see her in her dream world.
And he did. Finding himself suddenly in the meadow as his mind fell asleep, he looked around. The foliage was as it had been, the sky clear and blue. He immediately noticed the change she had made. A waterfall feeding a small pond was off in the distance. It wasn't too far from where they usually sat. Smiling, he made his way to it, feeling her there.
He smiled, seeing her swimming in the water. She wore nothing while she swam, leaving her body nude as she enjoyed the feel of the water caressing over her. Sensing him standing on the bank, she began to tread water, smiling at him.
"You can come in," she offered. "I won't bite."
"You've nibbled," he teased, crossing his arms over his chest as he turned his face away.
"But that's not biting," she giggled. "And you didn't seem to mind it."
She laughed a bit harder, seeing the redness of his blush climb to his cheeks. She climbed out of the water, making her way to where Ichigo stood, his back to her so she couldn't see how badly he was blushing. She stopped behind him, her arms going around his waist as she hugged him. Ichigo's blush became redder, feeling her breasts against his back, her cheek resting there.
"You love me," she stated, not asking a question.
Ichigo put his hand over hers, looking down at her small fingers. He'd only ever known gentleness at her hands, never the cruelty that she'd shown when she was turned. It scared him to think that the small woman behind him could be such a destructive force.
"Yes," he answered softly.
"Will you do something for me, Ichigo," she asked.
"If it's in my ability to."
She let go of his waist, coming around to the front of him. She was clad in a simple dress again, her damp hair trailing down her back. She put her hands in his, smiling up at him. "Will you wake up for a bit," she asked.
"Why?"
"Because…there's something I want to do." She gave him a shy smile, the one she'd given him so many times when she wanted something from him.
Keeping her hands in his, he leaned down a bit, kissing her softly. "Alright," he whispered. "But only because you have me curious."
His eyes opened slowly, taking in the soft glow of the lamp on the far side of the room. His brow furrowed in confusion. "Didn't I turn that off?"
"You did," Sachiel's voice answered. "I turned it back on."
He turned to her, smiling gently. "How are you feeling?"
"Better," she answered. "A quick nap did me a world of good."
"What was it that you wanted," he asked.
"This," she answered, coming over him as she straddled his hips. His eyes widened, seeing her naked form by the soft lamp light. Bracing her hands on his chest, she lowered herself, kissing him softly. Without his shirt, he could feel her breasts against his bare skin, feel her warm body against his.
He broke the kiss, looking deep into her eyes as he brushed back a stray lock. "Should we be doing this," he asked huskily. "You're just healed."
"I've been craving this since that first time, Ichigo. After that first time, we never did join again like that." She ground her hips gently against his, Ichigo hissing slightly as he felt her heat through his shorts.
"I…I might not be able to hold myself back, Sachi."
"Then don't," she said. "Don't hold back." She stared into his eyes, her own glazed with the passion she was feeling inside.
Ichigo cupped her face as he sat up, kissing her passionately before he rolled them over, laying atop the angel. He was nestled between her legs, one elbow supporting him as he kissed her, his free hand traveling down her side, cupping her rear before lifting her leg to his waist. Sachiel moaned into his mouth, feeling his excitement against her sensitive flesh as he pressed his hips to hers.
Sachiel buried her fingers in his hair, her tongue playing with his as they kissed. Her skin tingled, burning as his fingers trailed on her skin, kneading the soft flesh of her rear. He broke the kiss, leaving her lips as he trailed soft kisses to her jaw. He moved further down, finding her pulse. It beat strong against his lips as he kissed it before suckling softly. His hand left her rear, trailing up to her breast, cupping it before giving it a gentle squeeze, his thumb and forefinger finding her already hardened nipple. He broke away from her neck, hungrily seizing the nipple in his mouth, sucking hard on it. She cried out, arching herself into him. He gave the same attention to the other, the angel under him mewing softly, gasping as she felt the cool air touch her as his mouth moved back and forth.
She reached her hands overhead, holding onto the headboard as she felt his mouth explore her body, kissing and teasing her as he worked his way further down, his hands caressing her. She squirmed under the attention, her breathing ragged as she felt his passion for her through their bond. The bed cover lay partially on the floor as he worked his way down to her thighs, his mouth leaving open kisses on her flesh as he nibbled to her inner thighs. Feeling his breath caressing her mound, her breath hitched, releasing in a shudder as she knew what he was going to do.
His mouth claimed her fully, his fingers spreading her as his tongue found her center, licking and teasing at it before taking it fully. Sachiel arched on the bed, her moans filling the room. Ichigo placed a hand on her belly, holding her down as his mouth did what it would to her. He could feel her trembling against his tongue, her sounds of pleasure filling his ears. He smiled to himself. He kept up his assault on her button as he slipped two fingers into her, caressing her. Her legs were spread wide for him, giving him access to everything.
Feeling her slick walls becoming even more slick, he moved his mouth further down, lapping at her juices before moving away from her. He licked his lips, tasting her again. He stood at the foot of the bed, removing his shorts before coming back to her, his body against hers as he kissed her again. He moved his hips against hers, whimpering into her mouth as he felt her juices coating him
"Ichigo," she moaned against his mouth, arching.
"What," he replied huskily, sucking softly on her neck.
"This…body…is untried," she finally managed to get out.
He stopped, looking into her eyes. "What?"
She blushed, looking away. "I've never lain with a man in this body," she answered softly.
"But in the dream…"
"Is not like the real world," she interrupted. "I removed that barrier so that we could accomplish what was needed," she explained, hurt beginning to creep into her voice.
He smiled as he realized what she was saying. "Sachi," he began. "I've never been with anyone either. So this will be the first time for both of us." He kissed her again, gently this time, reining back some of the passion that burned inside of him.
He could feel her slick center still moving against him. He knew instinctively that her body was ready and the heady rush of excitement from earlier coupled with the feel of her against him made him more than ready. Like the first time, he hurt a bit from the pressure, her warmth only increasing the sensation.
"Sachi," he whispered, putting his forehead to her chest. "I need …" He couldn't finish. He didn't have to. Sachiel could feel the same pressure coiling within her, begging for release. It seemed like a distant memory, her other life in the world that her brothers had hidden her in. She had been married there, had a child there. She knew the feelings, knew the sensations. She put a hand on his shoulder, pushing him back gently. He raised up a little, groaning as he felt her hand take him, stroking him softly.
"You will hurt me, Ichigo," she whispered. "I know that it will hurt the first time for me. Don't worry, though. It's only temporary. After you're inside, give me a moment to let it pass. Alright?"
He nodded, keeping himself in place as she shifted her hips, guiding him to her opening. She thought it a bit strange that she would feel him as thicker than she remembered in their shared dream. She felt the head nestle itself at her opening, Ichigo's breathing ragged now as he felt her heat, her softness. Grinning a bit, she stroked the head along her slit before returning him to the entrance, lifting her hips a bit as she pushed him further in.
"Gods…Sachi," he gasped.
"Kiss me, Ichigo," she whispered, leaving his shaft where it wouldn't slip out as she wrapped her arms around him. She raised her leg, bringing it about his waist. He was straining with the effort of not letting himself fall over her, impaling her. So, she did it for him. With the leg she'd wrapped around him, she readied herself, bringing her mouth to his before using him as a brace, bringing her hips up. Her eyes shot open, a small cry finding its way into the room from between their joined lips. She held onto him, still using her leg to lower him with her back to the bed.
Ichigo lay on top of her, his face buried in the crook of her neck, his body trembling against hers. Gradually, Sachiel could feel the sting of their joining beginning to fade. She nudged against his head, burying her fingers in his hair as he looked up at her. She kissed him softly, frowning a bit as she noticed the tears in his eyes.
"What's wrong," she asked quietly.
He kissed her lips, smiling. "Nothing," he answered. "I was just thinking how amazing you feel compared to the dream world."
She returned his smile, moving her leg off of him as she pushed her hips against his. Ichigo's eyes closed, his breath drawing in with a sharp hiss, releasing in a groan.
"Move with me, Ichigo," she whispered to him, pushing her hips up against his again. He responded with a matching thrust, both of them groaning louder as he moved deeper inside her. Ichigo matched her pushes for several minutes, working his hips slowly as he relished the feel of the woman under him. It was helping to relieve some of the pressure but not all of it.
He began to thrust faster, harder as he felt his angel's passage tighten around him, her slick walls massaging him. He moved up onto his knees, grabbing onto her hips as he began to thrust harder still, his actions driving him as deep into her as possible. Sachiel squirmed against the bed, her mouth open slightly as she gasped and moaned with each of his thrusts. His fingers dug into her hips as he moved her against him, thrusting hard and deep, his own moans of pleasure mixing with hers. He could feel it beginning as her walls tightened even more along his length, creating that pleasurable friction that he remembered from their dream. His thrusts were faster now, a light sheen of sweat coating his body, trickling down his chest and arms. Sachiel was also sweating, feeling the heat from their joining beginning to fill her, making her arch as she bit into a knuckle, whimpering.
Tighter and tighter, their desire coiled inside of them, threatening to snap at any moment. Ichigo could feel that point of release coming upon him, shivering slightly as he neared it. Sachiel arched a bit more, her cry of pleasure signaling her release. He could feel her juices flow over his shaft as her walls clamped down tightly. He thrust into her again, crying out as his release came over him finally, the pressure and tightness lifting. He held onto her hips as he thrust a few more times, filling her with his seed. Still kneeling, he collapsed over her, panting softly as his head lay on her chest.
Sachiel brought her hands up to Ichigo's back, running her hands along the muscles there before gently stroking the hair back from his face. She giggled softly.
"What," he asked, looking up at her.
"I was just thinking…you need a haircut."
"Know what I was thinking?"
"What?"
"I hope the whole house didn't hear that," he said with a blush.
She laughed softly, pulling his face to hers, kissing him softly. "I made the room soundproof for this," she giggled.
His eyes showed his relief. "That's good," he said. "I'd hate to go downstairs in the morning and have everyone staring at me for making so much noise." He moved off her, pulling her with him so that she lay across his chest.
"Thank you…Ichigo," she whispered, bringing her arm around his waist and hugging him tightly.
He raised an eyebrow at her. "For what?"
"For making me realize what a mistake I was making in thinking I needed to let you go," she answered. "And for loving me."
He smiled, holding her hand with his as he hugged her back. "It was my pleasure," he answered. "The only thing we have to figure out now is, where do we live? Here or in Japan?"
"Tell me about your world there," she asked. "I want to know every facet of your life there."
And so, Ichigo spent the next few hours talking to her about Karakura Town, Tokyo and life in Japan. He answered her questions as best he could. As they talked, Sachiel could already feel a sense of wanting to go there, to make her life with him there rather than here in the desert. She was ready for more than heat and barren land.
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Morning came too soon for most of them. Sachiel was up and in the hot spring before anyone else in the house. She was a bit sore but her body was already adjusting to it. Because she kept herself toned, the soreness was only a minor inconvenience. She stared at herself in the mirror located by the shower, smiling as she caressed a finger over the mark Ichigo had left on her.
Through the link, she had felt through Ulquiorra's emotions. She would never spy on his thoughts but she did feel his happiness and contentment flowing through him. She was glad that she was able to return Terra to both Michael and Jo, even if Jo didn't know she still lived. At least, not yet. And she was happy that she could reshape Jo's soul so that it had a strength of its own instead of relying on another.
She also knew that, now that the danger was past, he would be asking Jo to marry him so that he could live his life as he'd told her he would. He wanted to marry her and start a family. Sachiel would make sure they had all they needed as he learned a trade, a way to provide for her.
She turned, jumping in fright as she found Michael staring at her.
"Lost in thought, sister," he chuckled.
"I was until you snuck in. Jerk," she replied, throwing a towel at him.
"Technically, I didn't sneak in," he shot back. "If I had, that would mean I would have to use the door. Since I didn't, we'll just say that I …"
"Snuck in," she finished for him, rolling her eyes as she wrapped a towel around herself.
"I came to see how everyone was doing," he said, ignoring her jibe.
"Well aside from me and Toshiro, I think the rest are still asleep," she answered. "Last night was a lot of excitement for them to take in."
Michael nodded, looking away as his sister began to wring out her hair, wrapping it in a towel before she pulled a robe on. She pulled the towel around her body free, dropping it at her feet before she closed her robe, finishing with drying off.
"Is there something on your mind, brother?"
"One thing," he admitted. "Where will you live now that you are redeemed?"
She looked at him in surprise. "I don't know, really. I assume that, with the ruins now destroyed, the students that came will be going home. I'll be resuming my research at the university and…I'll be staying here?"
"If I can manage it, would you like to go to Japan as well? I know you've had their scientists interested in your research for some time now."
She was really shocked now. "Send me there?"
He nodded. "There's been some demon activity there but mostly just the ghosts of the deceased."
She smiled at him, throwing her arms around his neck as she hugged him tight. "Thank you, brother!"
"Don't thank me yet, little sister. Let me see what I can pull through. It will take me a while," he said, hugging her tight enough to make her squeak.
She pulled away, her smile bright as she nodded to him. "Take what time you need," she said. "I'm sure you can get Father to send me there." She leaned up, kissing his cheek before she ran out of the bathhouse.
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Ulquiorra watched Sachiel run from the bath house. From the aura she was giving off, she must have received good news. She seemed…happy. He smiled, turning away from the window as he made his way back to the bed. Jo was still sleeping, her body still tired from the shock she sustained last night of losing her aunt, her own death and rebirth.
He lay down next to her, taking hold of her hand as he watched over her. She looked peaceful, her slight snore the only sound in the room. Closing his eyes, he relaxed, letting his mind wander as he began to doze. He dreamt of how his life would be now. He could still feel his power flowing freely through him, there to help protect Jo and those she loved. He'd use it to protect his family.
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Sachiel bounded into her bedroom, ripping off her robe as she made her way to her dresser. She grabbed her lotion, putting a generous helping into her hand before she began slathering it over her body. Ichigo had jumped up upon hearing the door slam shut, his mind still half asleep as he watched her. He blushed, seeing her nude state as she rubbed her lotion into her skin. The subtle sent of hyacinth and lilac began to fill the room. She wasn't paying attention to him as she finished, returning to her dresser for her under things. As he watched her, he could see the subtle scars on her back, hidden when she removed the towel from her hair; the long length hiding most of her body in a tangle of hair. With her garments on, she moved to her vanity, brushing it out, starting at the end as she worked her way up. She put an oil in her hands, combing it through her hair with her fingers. He knew she had to know he was awake with the way she kept looking through the mirror at him.
He sat there in the bed, his elbows on his knees as he watched, grinning at her. He remembered last night, her insistence that he make love to her, her cries still fresh in his mind.
"Morning, sleepy," she said as she combed back the front half of her hair, quickly braiding it so that it trailed down the hair that was already curling.
"Morning, Sachi. Why are you up so early?"
"I'm usually up before the sun. The fact that I woke after the sun was up means that I overslept." She got up from her vanity, making her way to the bed where she straddled him again. "Your fault, too."
"What? My fault," he sputtered.
"Yup," she answered, leaning close. "You're too tempting for a human. I had to have you last night. And besides, I had to keep my word."
"Your word," he asked, putting his hands on her hips.
"I told you that we'd have time later for that cuddling you were doing after I was returned," she answered. "To me, that meant later last night."
"I see," he smirked. "I'm glad you think that way."
She gave him a quick kiss on the lips before moving off him. She grabbed a pair of shorts, putting them on before she took out a shirred tank top, the front draping from the gathered sides. She buttoned up the shorts before slipping her feet into her sandals. She moved to the other side of the room, bringing him a pile of neatly folded clothing, a basket of toiletries and a clean towel. She set that on the edge of the bed before draping a robe of pale blue next to it.
"Your robe, clothes and stuff to get cleaned up with," she answered to his unspoken question. "Go shower. I have to go get breakfast started. With the extra people, I'll have more to cook for."
"Alright," he said, pulling the covers aside as he got out of bed. He was still naked from last night. He stretched as he got up, waking his muscles. He took her offerings, putting on the robe before going out the door. Sachiel followed behind him, smiling happily.
"Any special requests for breakfast," she asked.
"Anything is fine," he answered. "Some fresh fruit would be nice, though."
"Fruit? I see Raphael did most of the cooking while I was gone," she giggled. "He loves fruit but never eats it."
"Yeah. He wouldn't let us eat it either," Ichigo replied. As they came out to the patio, he turned, giving her a quick kiss before making his way to the bathhouse. Sachiel watched him go for a few moments, turning toward the outdoor kitchen as she saw him enter the bath house. She opened the refrigerator, pulling out various items to make omelets for everyone. She also pulled out vegetables and sausage, bacon and set them on the counter before looking for the potatoes. She worked quickly, peeling the potatoes before shredding them, soaking them in water so that they wouldn't brown while she chopped more vegetables.
Stoking the fire under the cooking plate, she began to lay out the bacon and sausage to brown. Sensing someone watching her, she turned slowly so as not to surprise that person. She saw Toshiro and Rangiku standing there, watching her as she prepared breakfast.
"Anything special you'd like in your omelet," she asked them with a smile as she began to cut up fresh fruit. "I have vegetables, fungus, peppers, cheese. Whatever you'd like, I'll fix for you."
Rangiku smiled. "I'm not usually up early enough for breakfast but we heard you come in and then saw Kurosaki-san leave to get ready for the day so we decided to get up," she said.
Toshiro looked at the various vegetables laid out, taking in the smell of cooking meats and the sweet scent of fruit mixing in. "I'll have whatever you'd like to make me," he said with a shy smile, moving to the table.
"Taicho and I don't get breakfast made for us that often," Rangiku added. "But I don't have any preference."
"Alright," Sachiel said, wiping her hands on the towel at her waist. "I'll make you both an omelet with sausage, peppers, onions and cheese. And I was going to make hash browns as well, so you'll have a good breakfast before you go back to Seireitei."
"I'll have some explaining to do when I get back," Toshiro said with a sigh. He looked up as Sachiel set two glasses before them, a large pitcher of orange juice and milk following.
"I'll send a letter with you, if you don't mind," Sachiel offered. "I can explain the need for your extended stay and send my thanks."
Rangiku and Toshiro looked at her in surprise. "What? It's the least I can do for inconveniencing you both. It will explain everything, I promise."
"Why would you do that," Toshiro asked. "You don't even know us."
"But Ichigo does. And as his mate, that makes you my friends as well," she explained as she whipped up the eggs before ladling out the oil for the omelets. The hash browns were already simmering on the hotplate. "Friends and family are very important. I hope you don't distance yourself from him because of me."
Both shinigami smiled at her, shaking their heads. "We wouldn't do that," Rangiku smiled. "You're important to him and so that makes you our friend, too."
"Good," Sachiel said, adding the meat, vegetables and cheese into the egg sheet before cutting it in half, folding the ingredients in before turning them.
"Especially if we get breakfast made for us by an angel," Rangiku added. Sachiel laughed, taking two plates and putting the omelets on them before adding the hash browns and bacon. She set the plates in front of them along with silverware before turning away and coming back with a large bowl of fresh cut fruit.
The smell of food must have caused Renji's stomach to wake him up, the shinigami coming out looking half asleep. Sachiel already had a plate ready for him, the omelet loaded up with things she knew he would like. She added extra sausage on the side as well as giving him a large glass. He smiled his thanks before digging in.
She smiled back at him. "I knew you wouldn't be long in getting up," she said with a wink.
The other two shinigami looked up at her in surprise at her comment. She looked confused for a moment. "What? The man can eat the entire contents of my fridge and still say he was hungry."
Ichigo had come back from the bath house, taking his stuff upstairs before coming down and sitting at the table with everyone. As he sat, Sachiel set out a steaming plate of food for him. He smiled up at her, Sachiel leaning down and giving him a quick kiss before turning back to the stove. The three shinigami stared at Ichigo.
"What? A man can't kiss his soon to be wife," he grumped.
No one said anything, Sachiel giggling softly at the stove. She must have known who else was coming to breakfast, three omelets were ready for Ishida, Inoue and Sado. They were quickly running out of chairs. Ishida and Inoue took their breakfast out to the other patio table in the yard, Sado joining them after seeing there were no more chairs at this table. Sachiel took out two more pitchers to them, glasses in her arms as she went. She came back, making another omelet plate as she pulled a chair from the patio set and sat down next to Ichigo, pouring a glass of juice for herself.
Everyone sat in silence as they finished their breakfast, Matsumoto exclaiming about her full belly, Renji agreeing with her. Even Toshiro breathed a sigh of contentment.
After helping clear the table, Sachiel made two more plates before covering them in cling wrap, setting them in the fridge for Ulquiorra and Jo for later.
By now, it was already midmorning. She washed the dishes quickly, cleaning the hotplate and setting everything back in order before she sighed, looking around to make sure she didn't forget anything.
She smiled as she felt Ichigo's arms go around her from behind. She leaned back as she felt him rest his chin on her shoulder.
"It's like you never left," he commented quietly.
She sighed, putting her hands over his as they stayed there like that for a few moments. "She seems nice," she finally said.
"Who?"
"Inoue. But she's confused and hurting a bit," she said.
"I know. There's nothing I can do about it, though," he said.
"Will you…will you let me help her," Sachiel asked.
"How?"
"Come on. Let's take a walk," she said, breaking free of his embrace as she took a hold of his hand, leading him out into the yard and down by the river. Once she was sure they were out of sight of the house, she shifted them to her alternate world.
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Orihime watched the two go from the window, sadness filling her heart even though she knew she should be happy that her friend had found someone like Sachiel. Rangiku noted her silence, her demeanor changed from the bubbly girl that she knew.
"Orihime-chan," she said. "Want to talk about it?"
"Rangiku-san," she answered, turning around. She smiled but the smile never reached her eyes, seeming forced to Rangiku.
"Come on, Inoue," she coaxed. "You seem like you have a lot on your mind. Talking will help." She took the woman's hand, leading her outside.
Rangiku led her to the river, going in the opposite direction that she guessed Ichigo and Sachiel had gone. They walked for a little ways before finding a shadow created by the outcropping overhead to sit down at.
Both women stared up at the crystal blue sky, noting that nothing seemed to fly overhead. The cooling breeze from the river made the spot they were in, ideal for relaxing and having a long talk.
"Inoue," Rangiku started. "It bothers you, doesn't it? Like it did when Rukia could make Ichigo strengthen his resolve, how she used to be able to liven him up from his depressions?"
Inoue looked down at the river, her face blank for a moment before she nodded. "I could never compare to her," she whispered. "I know that I'm not ugly but she is truly beautiful. She is truly special compared to me."
Rangiku looked at the woman, amazed that she would say such a thing. "Inoue…I know that it's hard to let go of the man you've loved for so long. I'm still waiting for Gin to come back someday, to be reborn. Like you and Ichigo, we knew each other a long time and naturally fell in love. Our paths always led us in different directions. Even though your path and Ichigo's path are different now, he still considers you a friend. You were his girlfriend once. He loves you, but it's a different type of love. Not like a sister but as a friend with a very special place in his heart."
"But she's an angel! Literally!"
"It's not unheard of, Inoue. There have been records of celestial beings taking on a mate in Soul Society. It's rare but not unheard of."
"She knew exactly what to put in my omelet this morning."
"So? She's knowledgeable."
"She wasn't hostile toward me."
"She's a kind person from what I've seen."
"I should be happy for Kurosaki-kun."
"Yes. A part of you will always love him, will always desire to be with him. In time, you'll learn to set it aside. Don't lose your friendship over this. Sachiel said to us earlier that she would like for him to maintain his friendships despite her place in his life now."
"Really?"
"Really. She doesn't view you as a threat. In fact, I think she'd like to be a part of our lives, too."
"I miss having a friend around," Inoue admitted. "Tatske is always in one competition or another. Or training. We don't do things like we used to."
"Give her a chance, Inoue?"
"Hai! I will. If Kurosaki wants me to stay his friend then I have to accept everything in his life."
"That's the spirit."
"It's going to be hard but I have Ishida now. I have a future to look forward to with him."
"See? I told you talking would make you feel better."
"Hai! Arigatou, Rangiku-san." She hugged the woman, feeling better about the whole situation. For the sake of her friend and her relationship with Ishida, she would accept Sachiel as part of Kurosaki's life. She wanted the best for her friend and this woman would be that for him.
|(|)|
"You sure this is a good idea," Cathy asked, looking at the different cake designs.
"Yes, for the umpteenth time! Her birthday is the day after tomorrow. We need to make it a special one since it'll be her last one here," Terra said, flipping through the book. "I can't decide. Pick one!"
"But she doesn't even know that we know that it's her birthday. How do we even know how old she is?"
"Who cares? We just won't get number candles and set one on it."
"She'll be twenty," Michael said from behind them as he looked at the designs over their shoulder.
"See? At least someone knows!"
Cathy nodded, laughing as Olivia bobbed her head in time with her mother. "Is that a yes, Olie," she asked her daughter.
"Yeah," the toddler replied.
"Do you even know what you're saying yeah to," her mom asked her.
She nodded again, smiling.
"Well there you have it," she said, Terra and Michael laughing at the toddler's antics.
"Ok…so do we like this one or this one," Cathy asked, flipping between the two designs.
"Rainbow Brite? I haven't seen that character since I was a kid," Terra asked.
"But it's colorful," Cathy argued.
"I like the flowery one more. It's a reflection of her, ya know."
"Yeah," Cathy agreed. "Alright then…this one?"
"Oh that's perfect," Michael said over Terra's shoulder, taking in the design.
"Ok. Marble or chocolate or white?"
"Marble," Terra and Michael said at the same time.
"Butter cream," Cathy asked hopefully. Again, both nodded.
"Nommies," she squealed, heading over to the counter to place the order for the cake. Rob was out with Albert getting the meats they would need. Terra already looking at her list for side items. She and Michael set out with a cart, getting the items on the list while Cathy placed the cake order.
They were getting the vegetables and fruits for Terra's fruit tea when Cathy rejoined them, Olivia nibbling on a chunk of barbecued chicken.
"Stars! That child can still eat after that large breakfast?"
"She's trying to catch up to her big brother and sister," Cathy answered Michael.
"She'll do it at that rate. You get any curds?"
Cathy fished a package of fresh, deep fried cheese curds from the shopping cart, handing them over to the man. He loved the things. Olivia looked at the container, her eyes hopeful. "Mine," she asked.
Michael smiled, handing her a piece before popping one in his mouth. "Careful, Michael," Cathy warmed. "She might fightcha for that container."
"I hope tomorrow will be a nice day," Terra mused out loud.
"We're in the desert, sista. Why wouldn't it be a nice, roasting, hot day?"
Terra shrugged. "It could happen," she said as she walked to the checkout lane.
|(|)|
Ichigo and Sachiel emerged from her alternate world, laughing as he caught her around the waist and spinning her. "Told you," he laughed.
"Ok ok! You caught me," she said. "Now I'm dizzy!"
He set her down, letting go abruptly. She hadn't caught her center yet, falling on her butt by the riverbank. She didn't fight the fall, falling backward on the beach, arms outstretched as she tried to catch her breath. Ichigo stood over her, a big smile on his face. "You ok," he asked.
"Yeah," she replied breathily. "I can't believe you chased me for an hour."
"I can't believe you wouldn't let me catch you," he teased.
"Where's the fun in that," she pouted.
Ichigo wiggled his eyebrows at her, giving her a salacious grin. She laughed, kicking out a leg between his, tripping him. She quickly straddled him, holding him down as she brought her face to his, kissing him passionately before she jumped off, running toward the house.
"Hey! No fair," Ichigo called after her, getting to his feet and giving chase.
All he heard was her laughter trailing behind her as she made it to the grassy lawn. She stopped suddenly, Ichigo coming up short behind her. Her oldest brother was standing on the patio, giving her a disapproving look.
"And you're how old," he asked her. His tone was one he usually used when she was in trouble.
She squeaked, turning and hiding behind Ichigo. "I didn't do it," she said defensively. "Whatever it is, you can't prove it. I have a witness."
Ichigo looked confused, trying to turn as Sachiel kept herself behind him, using him as a shield.
"Stop that," he barked.
Michael laughed at the sight of his sister huddled behind the human. She poked her head out cautiously, seeing the change in his demeanor. She let out a sigh of relief before stepping out from behind her mate.
"We came by to talk to you," he chuckled.
"We?"
"Terra's upstairs talking to Jo and Ulquiorra. Cathy and Olivia are here to see you."
"Achi?"
Sachiel looked down, seeing the toddler attached to Michael's leg. "Hey, munster! Come here," she said, kneeling down for the baby to come to her. Olivia let go of Michael's leg, walking stiff legged as babies do when first learning to walk. She fell into Sachiel's waiting arms, grabbing her face and rubbing her nose against the angel's.
"What are you doing out here," she asked the baby in a higher pitched voice.
Olivia began to jabber a mile a minute, nothing coherent as she turned, pointing behind her before nodding her head. "Oh really," Sachiel responded. That led to another round of gibberish in which the baby ended by throwing her arms around Sachiel's neck, hugging her. That was when she noticed Ichigo. The baby's eyes went wide before ducking her head, hiding her face in Sachiel's neck.
"Well, she had a lot to say," Sachiel laughed, holding the baby tight.
"Evidently," Ichigo chuckled. "If you could understand that, she must have talked your ear off."
"There she is," Cathy exclaimed, walking up to Sachiel with a furrowed brow and mock frown. Olivia turned at the sound of her mother's voice, literally jumping at her.
Cathy caught her with a grunt. "Tanks, Olie. Now I have another bruise." The baby just laughed at her, clapping her hands.
Sachiel laughed lightly, moving to stand next to Ichigo. The couple smiled at the baby who suddenly gave her mother a hug. Michael cleared his throat, gaining everyone's attention.
"The reason behind our visit, aside from Terra needing to see Jo, was to announce a party the day after tomorrow," he said.
"Party," Ichigo asked.
"Yeah. Terra thought it would be a good idea to have a birthday party for Sachiel since her birthday is the day after tomorrow," Cathy clarified.
"Your birthday is in two days," Ichigo asked the woman, turning to her. "You never did mention your birthday."
"It…never came up?"
"Well, either way," Michael started. "Terra wanted to throw a birthday party as a thank you for last night."
"That was my duty," Sachiel defended.
"Either way, you didn't have to return her to me. You also purged her family of the demon that had taken over Cathy's husband. You also reversed the damage done to the town and its inhabitants," he continued.
"Alright! I get it," Sachiel cried out, holding her hands up as she conceded defeat.
"So you'll come to the party and like it," Cathy ordered her teasingly. Ichigo raised an eyebrow at the woman. "What? Don't look at me in that tone of face. I want a party."
"Then it's a party you shall have," Sachiel grinned.
"I better get going then," Ichigo interrupted.
"For why," Cathy asked, looking at him expectantly.
"Well, I have to get her a present. I'm not the kind of guy to not get his best girl a present for her birthday," he said.
"Aww," Cathy teased, Michael chuckling at her. "See? Why can't my husband be that considerate?" She turned to Michael, expecting an answer.
Michael looked at the woman, suddenly flustered. "I…I think I hear Terra coming downstairs," he said quickly, walking back into the house.
"Chicken," she called out after him.
Sachiel laughed. She turned to Ichigo. "You can ask my brother to take you into the city if you want," she said. "I wanted to take Jo shopping before this whole mess. And it'll be a good excuse to get a new outfit."
"I wanna go," Cathy whined. "I never get to go out."
"That reminds me. Where are Eleanora and Joaquin?"
"With Karen," she answered. "She wanted to take them out for a while. I got left with Super Chunk."
"Well, if she'll watch all three of them tomorrow, you're welcome to come with us," Sachiel said, lacing her fingers through Ichigo's.
"Yaye! You hear that, Chunk? I getta go choppin and get purty," Cathy sang to her daughter, dancing with her.
Sachiel smiled at mother and daughter before making her way inside. Cathy let Olivia down, the toddler making a beeline for the fridge.
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Sachiel watched Cathy out of the corner of her eye. The woman lived on a tight budget but she knew she wanted some of the items that had caught her eye. The blouse she was looking at would look perfect on her. The deep sapphire coloring would compliment her skin tone beautifully. Cathy sighed as she set it back on the rack after looking at the price tag.
"Don't want it," she asked her.
"Not that," Cathy answered. "I can't afford it. Walmart, I can afford. Not this department store stuff."
Sachiel looked at her sadly. "Well, tell you what. Your family has been awesome to me and if you want it, I'll buy it for you," she offered.
"No. It's ok," she said.
"Cathy."
"No, Sachiel. I'd feel bad if you did that."
"What? Why?"
"You know how my husband is. He'll whine that he didn't get something new, too."
"Well forget him. We brought you along to have fun. Not so you could be depressed."
"I know…"
"Then hush your face and start shopping," she ordered. "I'll get you whatever you want."
"What?"
"Go crazy. I can never repay you or your family for your help over the past year and a half. If not for you, I'd never have had the chance to meet those great children of yours. When you bring them over, I get all mushy inside."
"You sure," Cathy asked apprehensively.
"Yes. Now go try that blouse on. It'll look great on you."
She didn't have to be told again. She snatched up the blouse, making her way to the dressing room. Sachiel smiled as she watched her go. They still had the salon to go to after finding more clothing and shoes.
|(|)|
Ichigo stared at the ring in the jewelry case. He already knew that he was going to marry Sachiel. Getting her a ring would be ideal in sealing the promise he had made to her. He wasn't sure if he was going to propose at the party or after but he wanted to do it. The setting reminded him of the flower that Sachiel had been trying to pluck, a small diamond sparkled in the center of it. She would love it.
He sighed, looking at the price tag again. It was a bit more than he had the funds for. His credit card would cover it, but paying it back would mean he'd have to work longer hours when he got back to Japan. He didn't care. She was worth it to him.
"Can I help you," the sales clerk asked him from behind the counter.
"Can I see this ring, please," he said, pointing to the one he'd been staring at.
The woman smiled, taking a key ring from her pocket as she opened the display case, taking the ring out and handing it to him. He took it hesitantly, staring at the delicate workmanship of it. The petals were silver, trimmed in gold and set on a gold band.
"It's beautiful, isn't it," the clerk asked him.
"It is."
"For your girlfriend?"
"My future wife. I'm proposing to her tomorrow for her birthday."
"Congratulations," the clerk squealed. "She's very lucky to have you in her life."
"No," he disagreed. "I'm lucky to have her in mine. I'll take it."
"Excellent," she said. "I'll just wrap it for you after we ring it up."
Ichigo nodded, pulling out his wallet.
"Kurosaki," he heard from behind him. Ichigo turned, seeing Ulquiorra standing there at the entrance. "Did you have the same idea that I did?"
"What's that," Ichigo said, pulling out his card as he went to the register. Both men were speaking to each other in Japanese.
"To buy a jewelry piece for Sachiel. I was going to buy her a bracelet."
"Yeah," he nodded. "I bought her a ring." He handed his credit card to the clerk.
Ulquiorra's eyebrow went up. "What kind of ring?"
Ichigo took the dark blue velvet box, handing it over to the arrancar. Ulquiorra took it, opening it to look inside. He smirked, nodding his approval before handing it back. The clerk smiled as she presented him with the receipt to sign while she placed the box in another small box before wrapping it in silver foil paper, adding a ribbon to it.
"There you go," she said happily. "Good luck."
Ichigo nodded his thanks, turning back to Ulquiorra. "There's a pretty bracelet over there by the other wall," he offered, walking toward the display case. Ulquiorra followed him. He pointed out the bracelet, the design of it made to look like a small wreath of flowers. On the white background it set on, it showed off the vibrant stones beautifully as they sparkled.
After another few minutes, Ulquiorra had a package as well, both men leaving the jewelry store.
|(|)|
Sachiel was nervous. Ichigo was nervous. She'd wanted to look especially good today for her party, Ichigo trying to find the right time to propose. In all the excitement taking place today, he couldn't find the right time to give her the present he'd bought. It would have to wait until after the party.
Cathy came over shortly after lunchtime, her SUV parked beside the jeeps. She and Terra had figured that she wouldn't have the room to fit everyone in or Sachiel wanting to drive in heels. So, Cathy had volunteered to take the truck over and escort some of them to the party.
Ichigo watched Sachiel flit around the room, her hair bundled in a messy bun atop her head, tendrils trailing from it to frame her face. She looked exquisite in her multihued purple shirt that draped from her shoulders, rhinestones holding the billowing sleeves together at fixed points. The front of the shirt scooped downward, stopping at the start of her breasts. The color of it started as a pale lilac, working it's way to a deeper amethyst that tied in a sash at her hips. She wore a tight skirt of the same deep purple, not too short but enough to show off her legs. Silver strapped heels finished her look, her pedicured toes just peeking out of them.
She rushed over to Ichigo, fixing his collar on the ash colored dress shirt he wore. She smiled as she noted his shorter hair. She smoothed the shirt before giving him a quick kiss, moving back to her vanity where she dabbed on a tinted lip gloss.
"Ready," he asked her.
She turned, smiling at him with a nod. "Do I look alright," she asked nervously.
"You look beautiful," he answered, hugging her close. "You're taller now."
She laughed, grabbing her purse as she left the room, Ichigo right behind her.
|(|)|
"Woo! Don't you look sexy," Cathy teased as Sachiel came down the stairs.
Sachiel giggled, her smile radiant as she turned, letting the woman admire the outfit. Cathy let out a whistle. "That's it, Ichigo. You are officially one lucky man," she said.
"Yes, he is," Sado agreed, coming up beside the small woman.
Ichigo smiled, putting his arm around Sachiel's waist, his hand resting comfortably on her hip. "Everyone ready," he asked.
"Just waiting on Jo and Ulquiorra," she said. "Everyone else is in the vehicles waiting. Do you two want to ride with me instead of driving?"
|(|)|
An hour later saw them at the party. From the looks of it, Terra and Cathy had invited half the town. Terra had put a crown on Sachiel's head that read "Birthday Girl", causing Ichigo and the others to laugh as she smiled proudly.
She was promptly led away from the group when the band began to play. She was led out to the dance floor by a man she seemed familiar with, both of them laughing as they danced. The music was lively, everyone seeming to join in on the large dance floor.
Jo smiled as she watched her friend dance, Ulquiorra leading her out to the dance floor as well. It was traditional Hispanic music, Sado said. Ichigo and the others took a seat nearby, watching as everyone seemed to be having fun. Within a few moments, however, Terra came up to the table, offering her hand to Sado. Cathy took Renji's, both women leading the men out to the dance floor.
"Oh! They look like they're having fun," Inoue commented.
"Would you like to try, Inoue," Ishida asked her, smiling.
"I don't think I can move as fast as they are," she said worriedly.
"Don't worry. I can't either. We just learned before this whole thing happened with Sachiel's turning."
With that, the two went out on the dance floor, leaving Ichigo by himself. He smiled at his friends. He wanted them to have fun. Because Toshiro and Rangiku had to go back to Soul Society, they couldn't be here for the party. Sachiel had sent a letter with them, as promised. Toshiro had taken it gratefully, the young captain bowing to the woman respectfully before she pulled him into a hug. Ichigo could still see the look of shock on the taicho's face. Renji had stayed behind, stating that he had a little unfinished business. Ichigo knew that he just wanted to go to the party.
"Hey," he heard from the side. "Would you like to dance?"
Ichigo turned, seeing a woman in a tight blue dress, her black hair swept upward before trailing down her back. Her brown eyes looked at him almost hungrily.
"Thank you but no," he answered. "I'm just waiting for my girlfriend to come back."
"Oh," the woman said. "Too bad. We might have had fun. But what she doesn't know, won't hurt her." The woman winked at him, her finger trailing lightly along his arm. Ichigo looked at her in surprise, suddenly uncomfortable.
"Back off, Susan," Terra said warningly, coming from the dance floor suddenly.
The woman looked at Terra, looking shocked that she would speak her in that tone. "I just asked him to dance," she said.
"Uh huh. Why does your face say otherwise," Cathy added. "If you're looking for a good time, why don't you go ask your husband."
The woman looked at the two women in front of her. She scoffed. "Whatever," she said, walking away.
"I'll make sure she leaves," Albert said, following her.
"Who was that," Ichigo asked, his face bewildered by the women's behavior.
"Our older sister," Terra answered. "The town welcome wagon."
Now Ichigo was really confused.
"She likes men. Really likes men," Cathy added.
Seeing his confusion deepen, Terra leaned down, whispering into his ear. Ichigo's eyes went wide, his face turning red.
Cathy grinned. "Uh huh," she said, going back to the dance floor. Renji had been commandeered by another woman, the man having fun dancing with different partners. Terra sat next to Ichigo, watching the crowd. She'd managed to put together a party with surprising ease. The fact that she had opened up her small villa for the party had surprised many people in the town. They all knew her to be a private and reclusive person.
"There she goes," Terra laughed, pointing into the crowd, Sachiel's crown catching Ichigo's eye. She looked to him, smiling. "Why don't you go dance with her," she asked.
Ichigo blushed. Though he had learned the steps needed, he still felt a bit awkward. He didn't think he'd be able to keep up with Sachiel's zeal and energy. "I'm fine for now," he answered. "Maybe if a slow song comes on, I'll be able to dance with her. Right now, everyone else seems to want to dance with her," he said.
"Ulquiorra and Jo said you bought Sachiel a ring," she asked.
He nodded. "I'll give it to her later."
"When we open the presents, I hope." She winked at him, giving his shoulder a squeeze as she walked away.
"Woo," Sachiel gasped, landing in Ichigo's lap. "I think they're out to do me in!"
Ichigo laughed, holding the woman to him tightly. She laughed some more, putting her hand to his cheek as she kissed him softly. "I didn't think anyone could wear you out," he said teasingly.
"Well, you sure gave it a good shot last night," she teased, laughing as she caught his blush. "You're too easy!" Terra came up to them, smiling as she brought them two glasses of her fruit tea. They thanked her, Sachiel taking a big gulp to ease her parched throat.
She leaned against him as they watched their friends out in the crowd. Sado seemed to have been taken up by a petite woman in a flowing rose colored dress, the man looking more than pleased to be dancing with her. Inoue and Uryuu seemed to be having fun just trying to teach her the basic steps. Renji had caught the attention of a dark haired woman in bright yellow. Cathy was on the dance floor with her son and daughter, laughing with them as they danced.
She felt Ichigo's hand tighten on her hip, the fingers massaging as they flexed. She leaned her head on his shoulder, both of them enjoying a quiet moment as they continued to watch their friends.
"Hey, chica," they heard from the right of them. Ichigo turned as she perked up, a tall, gaunt woman with orange hair smiled at them as she got closer. "Some party, huh?"
"Diane! It's good to see you," she said. "How's the store?"
"Boring since you left. You gonna come back now that you're back?"
"I can't. I have some research that I have to share with a few universities."
"Yeah, they said your research was starting to make you really busy."
"Sure is. I might be leaving the country soon, too."
"Yeah?"
"If things go well, then yes."
"You two look cozy. Is he the main reason you're leaving," Diane asked.
"Maybe. We dunno yet," she answered with a shrug.
"I hope I am," Ichigo added, smiling at the woman before hugging Sachiel again.
"Just be good to her and treat her right," Diane said with a warning in her tone.
Ichigo smiled. "I'll do my best."
"That's all I can ask for. I better go find Becky. She's probably found the open bar by now," she laughed, giving Sachiel a wink as she left them, waving.
Ichigo nibbled on Sachiel's neck, giving it a light kiss before he pulled away, smiling at her as she giggled. "Should I give you your present now," he whispered.
"You really did buy me something?"
"I can't let your birthday go by without a present, can I?"
"I suppose not," she sighed. "I'm just glad no one here knows how old I really am."
"You look good for a lady that's older than dirt," he teased.
Sachiel scoffed, smacking the back of his head lightly as she made to move off his lap. He laughed, rubbing the spot as he tightened his arm around her. "Meanie."
"Brat."
"Your brat?"
"Definitely," he said, pulling her mouth to his in a kiss.
The tempo of the music changed, slowing down. Many of the couples on the dance floor leaving, only a few remaining as they slow danced. Ichigo gently pushed Sachiel from his lap, standing as he took her hand and led her out to the dance floor. He held her close to him as they swayed gently to the music. They stared into each other's eyes as they danced, smiling softly at each other.
Inoue had felt them come onto the dance floor, smiling as Uryuu held her close to him, her head turned toward the other couple. She really was happy for Ichigo. In the few days that she had known the woman, she felt that Ichigo was right about her. She was made for him. She turned her head, resting it against Ishida's chest.
"Are you alright," he asked her quietly.
"Yes," she answered, a light tone in her voice. "I'm happy for him. I'm happy for both of them."
Uryuu smiled, breathing a silent sigh of relief. He had hoped that Inoue wouldn't continue to feel uneasy as she had when she learned of Ichigo's girlfriend. He'd been more than happy to find Sachiel including Inoue in just about everything around the house, even taking her with them into town for a "girl's day" as she'd put it.
"Her heart is just like his," Inoue whispered. "They understand each other on a level even I didn't understand him. I'm glad. She'll be very good for him."
Uryuu smiled, kissing the top of Inoue's head as she nestled into his chest. He tightened his arms around her. Halfway through the song, however, they were interrupted. Ichigo and Sachiel stood there, smiling as Ichigo asked if he could finish the dance with Inoue. Uryuu nodded, bowing out like the gentleman he was. Sachiel took his hand, leading him a bit away before she began to dance with him.
"Inoue," Ichigo whispered, holding his former girlfriend close. She looked up at him in bewilderment.
"Are…are you alright, Kurosaki-kun," she asked.
"Yeah. I was just thinking how quickly everything's changed in the last few months since I've been here."
"You're different," she said. "Happier."
He nodded. "I wanted to thank you, Inoue. For being there with me and for being such a great friend for so long."
She blushed, smiling to herself as she looked away. "You're my friend. I can't just abandon you because I don't like something you're doing. If that were the case, I'd never have followed you to Soul Society."
He smiled at her. "We've been through a lot together, haven't we?"
She smiled at him, nodding. "You're going to start a new chapter in your life, Ichigo," she said. "She's a wonderful person. I know that you're going to be happy together for a long time."
"I'm glad to hear you say that. I wanted you to be the first to know out of all my friends," he said.
"Know what?" She gazed at him curiously, feeling as if he were going to let her in on a big secret.
"I'm going to ask her to marry me."
"But you're already mated."
"In her world, we are. But I want it to be official in this world as well," he explained.
Inoue smiled. "Ishida asked me that same question before he came out on this trip," she said.
"Did you accept?"
"Hai. It's what he wanted and I've learned that I wanted it, too."
"He'll make you happy."
"He already has. Just like Sachiel has made you happy."
Ichigo smiled. He leaned down, brushing his lips against the corner of her mouth. "Arigatou…Inoue." The song was still playing the last of its chords, beginning to fade as he pulled away from her. He took her hand, leading her back to Uryuu. He placed her hand in his before taking Sachiel's. "Thank you, Uryuu."
He led her back to the table, Sado and Renji waiting there for them. Both men were smiling as they saw them approach. Sachiel laughed softly, seeing Renji already having finished a plate of food and was working on his second.
As Ichigo sat down, pulling Sachiel into his lap, they heard the sound of running feet. Looking back at the dance floor, there was Cathy and her three children standing in the middle. In unison, three of them hollered as loud as they could. "Food's ready!" Olivia stood beside her mother, suddenly yelling incoherently as she waved a finger at random people.
Laughter erupted all around, those who were ready to eat, getting up and making their way to the large tables that were laden with food. Sachiel looked at Ichigo, her look asking if he was hungry. He nodded, both of them standing as they went to get a plate for themselves.
As the party progressed, everyone had fun dancing, watching the kids and adults attempting to break the five large piñatas that were stationed at different points of the yard. Sachiel got Ichigo to try to hit one, the man growing frustrated as he was unable to land a hit on the candy stuffed effigy. After five minutes, they called an end to his turn, Sachiel giggling at him as she removed the blindfold. They watched as Inoue got Uryuu to try a three legged race with her and Renji, Sado joining in as well. Terra and Cathy had put together quite a little party with lots of activities that the young and the older folks could enjoy.
As the sun began to set low on the horizon, Terra and Cathy used the microphone to call everyone's attention. Four men came to the center of the dance floor carrying a large table laden with gifts. Sachiel was floored by the amount of presents, turning back toward Ichigo as she buried her face in his chest to hide her embarrassment. Another table was brought out beside it, two very large cakes sitting on it. They were both made identical, with two tiers and what looked like an explosion of wildflowers covering both, snaking up each side as a "Happy Birthday" sign was joined over the both of them.
"Oh my word," Inoue gasped, taking in the size of the cake.
"Sachiel," Terra began. "You came into our lives just over a year and a half ago. In that time, you've been a driving force in helping this small village grow into the town that it is today. Your hard work and determination has not been lost on anyone. You've helped us through the plague that almost claimed the lives of our children; finding a cure for their illness. You've helped establish a trade post between two cities so that it's easier for the people of this area to get what they need. You have brought us peace, prosperity and hope."
Everyone around them raised their glasses, cheering for her. Ichigo's friends looked to her, eyes widened in surprise that she had accomplished so much in so little time. "This party is a small token of thanks for what you've done for us." She paused, her voice wavering as she wiped a tear from the corner of her eye. "I've heard that you'll be leaving us to take up a research position in Japan so that your knowledge can be used to help the world," she continued. "We wish you the best of luck and may you always know the happiness that you've brought to us."
Sachiel stood there, tears streaming down her face as everyone began to sing happy birthday to her. The news of her leaving hadn't quite sunk in as Ichigo smiled brightly, tightening his arms around her waist. After a moment, he led her to the cake where the candles had been lit. She smiled through her tears, watching the candlelight flicker off the sculpted flowers that adorned her cake. As the song reached its end, she closed her eyes, thinking of a wish. She opened them as she took a deep breath, blowing out the twenty candles.
Cheers erupted as Ichigo reached to the small table, taking the package that he'd gotten the day before. This was the perfect time for him to ask.
Sachiel turned to him licking frosting off her finger after she'd served the first slice. She was surprised to see him getting down on one knee. Cathy gestured wildly to the cameraman as she grabbed the microphone from Terra, running as fast as her short legs would carry her to them. Ichigo smiled at her after finding the microphone by him.
"Do it," Cathy cheered, her body shaking with excitement.
"I wanted the first present you opened to be the one from me," he said. "I know we've only known each other a few months but those few months have been the happiest I've ever known. I feel like I've known you for forever, Sachiel." He offered her the silver package. Sachiel took it hesitantly, undoing the ribbon before opening the box. She took out the small blue box, looking at Ichigo in confusion. He took the box from her hand, his hands trembling as he opened it for her. He presented the open box to her, her eyes going wide as she saw the ring inside of it.
"Sachiel," he started again. "Will you make me the happiest man on earth and be my wife?"
"Say yes," she heard from the crowd, Cathy smiling as wide as she could, nodding her head enthusiastically.
Sachiel stared at him, disbelief on her face. A lone tear made its way down her cheek before she smiled brightly at him, dropping to her knees. "Yes," she said, wrapping her arms around him and hugging him tight.
The crowd cheered louder than ever, their friends rushing in to congratulate the pair. Ichigo pulled the ring from the box, sliding it onto her ring finger before kissing it. He kissed her softly as he felt his friends around him, giving their support, many hands patting him on the back.
Both of them stood, holding hands as they smiled at everyone. Ichigo helped her as she turned to the pile of gifts, announcing who each was from before opening it. When she opened Ulquiorra's gift, it read from both him and Jo. She loved the bracelet, Ichigo putting it on her wrist so she could admire the jewels as they glimmered in the late evening light.
After the pile had finally been opened, she'd found herself with many gifts of jewelry, clothing and gift cards. She wasn't sure what she would get from each of the department stores that the cards were assigned to, but she was sure she would find something that was needed around the house or in other areas.
Michael made his way through the crowd, reaching his sister as she began to pile all the gifts into bags that Terra had given her. Putting a hand on her shoulder, he turned her around. She looked at her brother in surprise. Rarely did he walk among the mortals when there were this many to be seen.
"Michael," she greeted. "What brings you here, brother?"
"I came to give you this," he said, holding out a thick envelope for her.
"What's this," she asked, taking it from him and opening the envelope. Her eyes squinted in confusion as she saw the plane ticket. Finding another envelope inside, she opened it, scanning the contents before reading it again. "I…was accepted?"
Michael chuckled. "You must not have heard Terra when she said you'd be leaving soon. You're going to Japan, little sister."
Her eyes widened as she realized what he was saying. The Tokyo University of Research had accepted her as a researcher and student. She would be finishing her doctrine there…with Ichigo. She would be starting his final semester with him. She squealed with joy, jumping into her brother's arms as she hugged him tight. "You're the best, Michael," she cried.
He returned her hug, holding her close. "Just don't forget your other responsibilities," he said.
"I won't. I really won't!"
"Ichigo," he said, turning to the man. "She's going to need your help finding a place for the two of you to live. Don't worry about the cost. Sachiel has more than enough money to afford whichever."
Ichigo nodded, shaking Michael's hand. "I'll make sure I find her a good place that I know she'll like."
"Good. Is there any more food left," he asked, turning around as he rubbed his stomach. Terra came up behind him, her hands on his waist as she steered him to the banquet tables. "Over here, Mr. Fashionably Late," she teased, putting an arm around his waist as he put one around her shoulders. Together, they walked away from the small crowd.
It was getting later, the waning moon already high in the sky. Sachiel and Ichigo were both tired from the day's excitement. She sat next to him on a chair, her legs in his lap as she relaxed. He rubbed her legs, feeling their tightness from all her dancing and playing. She'd entertained the kids with a "magic" show, run in the races and danced as much as she could. She'd worn herself out. Her head was resting on his shoulder, her hands holding his.
"We'll marry in Japan," she said quietly. "Inoue can teach me all about your religion there.
"We'll have our children there," he said to her. "You'll get to meet my family."
"I hope they like me."
"My family will be excited to meet you. My little sisters will love you. My dad will adore you."
"I want to build us a house, Ichigo. One where our children can run and play, where I can continue my research outside of school. I can help your family's clinic."
"My dad will like that. I told you he's a shinigami, right?"
"You mentioned it," she nodded.
"He'll be happy that you returned Zangetsu to me."
She smiled, snuggling closer to him. "I'm tired."
"Me, too."
"Wanna go home?"
"And leave your party before anyone else," he asked, gesturing to the very thinned crowd.
She nodded, yawning sleepily.
"Hey, you two," Cathy called, Olivia in her arms as she dozed. "You ready to go home? The kids are already in bed but you can take my truck if you want to go home. Terra or Rob can take me by in the morning to get it."
"That'd be great," Sachiel said, yawning again. Cathy handed over the keys, Sachiel taking them gratefully.
"We'll bring your gifts by in the morning as well," she said. "You two just get home safely. Coyotes are out."
She nodded again, yawning. "I'll have that elixir ready when you come by so that your husband can recover quicker."
"Sounds good. Renji, Sado! Come make yourselves useful," Cathy hollered, turning away. She had the men gather up the gifts, taking them inside the house for safekeeping.
Sachiel got up, leaving her shoes off as she walked with Ichigo to the truck. She climbed into the driver's side, Ichigo in the passenger's as she started up, taking them home. She was going to have a very busy next few months before he left for Japan and afterward. She had a lot of planning to do in just a short amount of time.
And there you have it. The conclusion? No...again no! It's just a foundation for the start of their lives together. There's still quite a few surprises in store for the couple as they make their way. Ulquiorra and Jo will be mentioned more in the next chapter, so don't worry, I did not forget about them.
Review if you'd like. You don't have to but it's nice to know if anyone likes the story. =)