Hello, hisashiburi, long time no see. :) Life's been really busy but I decided to take some time out for writing today, because I was feeling really frustrated and stressed out with the work. I was seriously ill a few days ago so I'm just trying to get back on things right now. :) I hope all your lives are going nicely though.
A fellow med student in my university passed away unexpectedly a few days ago. I didn't know him personally, only knew him by face, but the news affected me all the same. He had just graduated the day before, and it was really sad, he was active, drummer, and all. It just gave me the thought about how fragile life can be, even if we don't realize it. I dedicate this chapter to Steven. Even if I don't know him, and he might not read Bleach or even like ByaRuki, I hope you R.I.P and God be with you.
Thank you to all reviewers of the past chapter, I appreciate them and will answer them in the AN below.
Back to this current chapter, there's a LOT going on in here so strap yourself in and be prepared. :) I hope you enjoy though. :)
I have a super long AN after this, but it's a clarification note. :)
WARNING: Demon Byakuya. Probable OOC-ness for both characters.
RING!
Byakuya walked into the living room, feeling just a tiny bit groggy. He had slept deeply, and woke up to note that it was already afternoon. The Incubus had never slept for as long as twelve hours before, but this time he really did. He had reached out in the morning to pull Rukia closer, only to find his hands grabbing onto the warm thick comforter.
Byakuya had then gotten up to see a huge plate of chocolate-chip cookies and a tall glass of milk on the bedside table, with the sweet floral scent of Rukia still fresh in the sheets.
I'm off to the lab, sleepyhead! Cookies and milk for breakfast… and if you are still hungry, the fridge is free for raiding! I will be back soon! Rukia.
Byakuya had smiled at the small note Rukia had left for him next to the plate, noting that she had also drawn a very adorable bunny next to the written words.
Now he carried breakfast out into the living room to pick up the phone. As he lifted the receiver, the loud female voice blared at him. "RUKIA! HOW ARE YOU KEEPING OUR HOUSE THIS WEEKEND?"
"Rukia is not in at the moment," Byakuya answered.
There was a moment of flabbergasted, shocked silence on Nel's side.
"Shall I tell her you called?"
"A-Ah, yes, s-sure." Nel's voice was disbelieving. "Is this Byakuya-san?"
"Yes, I am Byakuya. Nel-san, I gather?"
"Yes, of course." Nel's voice was suddenly mischievous. "Byakuya-san, what are you doing over at the dorm?"
"I came for the weekend, because Rukia was going to be alone in the dorm." Byakuya could almost hear a muffled squeal on the other side at his statement, followed by an annoyed grunt which appeared to be that of a male.
"For real? So you are sleeping over at our place?"
"Yes, till Sunday. I just woke up."
Another not-so-hidden squeal.
"Rough night last night?" Nel's voice was one of satisfaction and glee.
Byakuya felt a smile form on his lips at the thoughts of the night before. He had curled up with Rukia in bed, warm beneath the covers as it rained on. He had tightened his arms around her and buried his head into her hair as he drifted off to sleep.
But his reply was for the benefit of Rukia's roommate. "I believe it was."
"KYAAAA!" Byakuya moved the phone slightly away from his ear as Nel squealed again at full volume. "Okay, Byakuya-san! Enjoy yourselves, and send Rukia lots of love from me!"
Before Byakuya could answer, Nel had already hung up. The Incubus turned to look about the living room, wondering what he could do in Rukia's absence.
xXxXx
"I'm home!" Rukia called out as she opened the door. She let herself in the apartment and dropped her bag to the floor before moving to the kitchen to store the fresh food she had gotten from the wet market on the way back. Rukia figured that Byakuya and herself could go biking today, the sun was good and the air felt good, and then they could come back and she could cook them both some really fresh stuff.
Rukia noted the too-tidy appearance of the living room as she walked to the kitchen. The books and newspapers were arranged in very precise corners of the tables and even the potted plants in the balcony were arranged in straight rows. As Rukia reached the kitchen, she noticed how the cups were standing in their place with the holders turned at a single degree, every single one of them. Even the plates were arranged according to their respective patterns. Where was Byakuya?
"Byakuya?" Rukia called out as she put the food into the refrigerator.
"I am here." Rukia looked up as she heard his deep voice, and she smiled at the tall man who had materialized at her bedroom door. "I have been cleaning." He smiled at her as he held up a duster, and Rukia was once again tempted to laugh at the odd appearance.
"You didn't have to, it's supposed to be the weekend," she protested as she walked out of the kitchen.
"There wasn't really much to do, it was all clean already. So I just tidied up what I could and-"
"It's all a little too tidy now, Nel won't get used to it when she's back-"
"-and I also did some reading," Byakuya finished off.
Rukia's eyebrows lifted as Byakuya smirked at her and tossed something he had been holding in his right hand out to her. Rukia caught the book and immediately realized what it was. She stared at the leather-bound book with bunny stickers and hand-drawn sunbursts on the cover.
No. No way.
No no way.
"When you were twelve, you thought your teacher, Mister A was the most honourable man you ever met, ever since he welcomed you into the new classroom without prejudice or judgement. He taught you on the principles of life aside from homework, and you began to develop admiration for him. He also had a very nice-looking bottom, and you always found yourself spying at it from your classroom seat even if you could not help it."
Rukia's blush turned the colour of a tomato. A very, very ripe tomato. She whirled on Byakuya, her eyes flashing. "WHY DID YOU READ MY DIARY!"
Byakuya gave Rukia a serene smile and continued, "Also, when you were fifteen, you developed a crush on one of your school's star journalist writer. He was the reason you joined the newspaper committee, where you discovered your love for writing. You thought he would never spare a look at you, so you let the chocolates you made for him on Valentine's day melt."
"I won't ever talk to you for my whole life!" Rukia fumed and turned to face the wall, clutching her diary to her chest. She did not know what else to do. Throw Byakuya out of the house? She could very well do that, he had breached her privacy a little too much!
Rukia did not realize Byakuya had walked over and stood close to her until she felt his warm breath against her ear.
"And when you reached twenty-one years of age, you thought Byakuya's kisses were the sweetest guilty pleasure of yours." Byakuya's voice was soft. "You wondered why he often told you you were beautiful, when you felt you were nothing near that. And somehow, you blame yourself for falling in love with him and having that secret wish for him to always stay by your side."
Rukia felt the heat overwhelm her entire face, as her heart pounded fast. He had read up to the latest entry! This stupid, shameless, busybody-
"Stop it! Stop it already!" Rukia turned around and pushed out against Byakuya but he reached out and covered her hands with his. She knew her cheeks were very red and refused to look at him.
"I will stay by your side forever, Rukia…" Byakuya took her right hand up before kissing her knuckles lightly. "… but not because you wish me to."
Rukia's eyes widened even as she blushed. Byakuya leveled his grey-eyed gaze onto her before speaking the words. "Because you will have to stay by my side forever."
The violet eyes widened some more, only drawing the pair of grey eyes even more into them. Byakuya pulled her hands onto his chest, pulling the human girl closer to him.
"Arigato, Rukia." His deep voice was soft. "Thank you for loving me back."
Byakuya watched those wonderful violet eyes flicker up to his, so bright and beautiful like that. He watched her small mouth open as if she wanted to say something but no words came out. He continued staring at those lips, lips he knew were the softest lips in the world… his own guilty pleasure…
"Maybe some guilty pleasure will clear your mind?" Byakuya murmured as he began to tilt his head downwards.
Rukia was about to tell him that it would have the opposite effect but then his lips touched hers, and she forgot everything else.
xXxXx
Unohana took off her designer glasses as she finished looking over one particular land expansion plan. She reached for the cup of hot green tea on her table and was about to take a sip when her phone rang.
"Unohana Retsu speaking."
"Unohana-sensei?" The Succubus heard the worried yet excited tone of voice of her assistant, Isane.
"What is it, Isane?"
"Sensei, remember your plan about diverting Byakuya's attention from R-Rukia-san?"
Unohana sat back in her seat. "Yes?"
"Because Sensei, you are not going to believe this."
xXxXx
"They have rejected our calls again."
The Incubus sat back on the red lounge cushion. "Is that so?" The male voice was slow, and calm.
"Shall I give them another call, Master Ulquiorra?"
"Yes. I see they still insist on being so lofty and arrogant." The bright green eyes almost glowed in the room. "It is funny. For the first time since Kuchiki Soujun's death, the Kuchiki clan now stands on the abyss of destruction and once again, their current leader is unaware of such a process."
"So… one more call?"
"One more call."
xXxXx
Byakuy drove his Porsche into his private parking as the automatic gates closed behind him. It had been such a tiring meeting at office this Wednesday morning, which was then followed up by more paperwork. Just before he could go home, Byakuya had had to meet up with the clan just now for another two hours of bickering over turf lands and neighbouring conflicts. He was ready to drop dead from it all, and just after flying high from the lovely weekend spent at Rukia's dorm apartment.
And he was also hungry.
Both for material food… and human spirit energy.
Byakuya pressed the blank panel in the elevator as he waited for it to ascend to his apartment suite.
He was… really tired. Maybe he would just take out an obscenely huge chunk of meat from the refrigerator and devour it, before going to bed early. Byakuya never did like the taste of raw meat (preferring the more classy way of cooking it), but he did not feel like patiently cutting down bite-sized pieces to fry in the pan today.
Yes, that would be it. And then maybe a night phone call to Rukia, and he can go off to bed…
An sweet smell immediately caught Byakuya's nostrils as he stepped into his apartment suite. He quickly looked about the living room, noticing the neat pile of papers and magazines stacked on his coffee table and the clean arrangement of the pillows on the couch.
Wha-
His heart began to pound fast, as he caught the delicious whiff of food. In his case, both kinds of food.
He could hear the sound of something simmering in the kitchen.
Byakuya walked fast to the kitchen, trying not to break into a run. He could already feel his lips lifting up in a smile of their own accord.
He appeared at the face of the kitchen door, and for the first time in the day, Kuchiki Byakuya smiled in pure happiness.
"Rukia?"
He heard the gasp as Rukia turned around. His black apron was fitted on her, a little too large on her petite figure. He watched her blush prettily at the stove, as she looked at him.
"Otousan's gone to visit a friend for an overnight stay so I thought…" Rukia waved her hand vaguely around the place. "I just thought I'd come here, tidy the place up a bit, and err… cook your dinner. You did give me a spare key and said I could come here once in a while." Her cheeks got redder.
Byakuya walked towards her.
"That is… if it's not too much of a hassle for y-
His lips cut Rukia off mid-sentence. Byakuya kissed her softly, pressing her close to him by the stove.
He pulled back and gazed at her. "No hassle, only a much-wanted blessing."
Rukia looked at him, and got even redder.
"I… uh…" She pushed him away slightly. "You… should go take a shower and change." Then she lifted her head to him and smiled. "Dinner will be ready in a bit."
Byakuya smiled back at her. "Okay."
He pressed another kiss to Rukia's forehead (he just could not keep his hands off her whenever she was within arm's reach) and tore himself away from her to head up to his bedroom.
After he had showered (in record time), Byakuya changed into a loose black shirt and pants as fast as he could. He took time to check his reflection in the mirror and made sure he was looking good, before he headed downstairs.
Rukia was already laying out the table, and greeted him with a smile as he entered the dining room.
xXxXx
Byakuya wanted to drag dinner out as long as he could, so she would stay a little longer with him. But finally, when she cleared the dishes away, he sighed slightly. It was already very good, that she came here to his apartment. He should be satisfied, and not ask for more.
When she had removed the apron and finally wiped her hand clean, Byakuya got up and faced her.
"Thank you for the wonderful dinner, Rukia."
Rukia smiled. "I hoped you like it."
"I loved it." Byakuya smiled. "And I guess… I should send you home now."
To his surprise, Rukia blushed even more. And as Byakuya stood there and looked at her, realization started to catch up on his curiosity. Was she blushing because…
"I… I was… Father's gone for an overnight trip, which means there's no one home. So… I thought… I…"
"You want to stay here for the night?" Byakuya spoke before he could stop himself.
Rukia's face turned an even redder shade. "I… Well, yes. But... I mean if you've got plans, I can definitely leave…" Rukia hurriedly picked up her coat and moved to the door. She gasped as Byakuya swiftly stepped in front of her.
"Since you said that, you have no right to leave this house till the morning after." Byakuya allowed a tiny smirk to play across his lips.
"I…"
"So what do you want to do now?" Byakuya asked, as he bent closer to her.
"I… Watching a movie, perhaps." Rukia stepped backwards. "I saw a really nice movie of yours on the CD rack I've been dying to watch." Byakuya watched the childish excitement cross her beautiful features and he felt his heart get lighter with happiness. He loved making her happy.
"We'll definitely do that then."
"Really?"
Rukia curled up on the couch happily, a tub of ice cream in her lap. "Ooohhh," she exclaimed excitedly as a scene played out on the widescreen TV in front of them. Byakuya sat next to her lazily, one of his arm strung across the couch, and itching to move to her shoulder.
This movie was good, Byakuya did know it. Heck, he had watched the whole thing for two hundred and sixty times already, he could practically fire the actor and play the role himself. But today, he had much more important things on his mind than mimic the speech of the actors.
"Rukia…" He dragged her name slowly on his tongue.
"Huh?" She did not look at him. Byakuya felt a little impatience ripple inside him. It was okay, he was definitely going to get her in the end.
"Feed me some ice cream."
"You have your own tub," She shifted a little grouchily, her eyes on the TV. "This movie is really good."
"Well, I prefer the one in your tub."
"Nonsense, it's the same."
"It's not, yours is sweeter."
"Fine." Rukia dumped the tub in his lap, and continued watching the movie.
Byakuya frowned. He was so firing that actor. "I want you to feed me."
"Can we do this after the movie?"
"No, it's melting now."
Rukia sighed. "Fine." She took the tub and hurriedly scooped up a spoonful of ice cream, trying to keep her eyes to the TV screen as Byakuya smiled in anticipation. She looked at him and gave him a mock stern look, which had the opposite effect as it caused her to look so much more adorable. She lifted her spoon and Byakuya opened his mouth.
And at that second, there was a loud sound from the screen and Rukia jerked her head to catch the precious few seconds of the movie. Her hand moved forward in an unguided direction and before Byakuya could say anything, her spoon had hit him on the nose, and splotched ice cream on the tip of it.
Rukia gasped as Byakuya moved back slightly. "Oh, I'm so sorry! I didn't see I was-
Rukia saw a flash across her eyes and suddenly, cold ice cream was smeared across her cheek. Rukia blinked in confusion (and Byakuya felt that she looked so adorable in that moment), before her eyes narrowed.
"Payback." Byakuya smiled, his finger coated with what was left of his mischievous act.
"You childish…" Rukia tackled him hard on the couch but Byakuya immediately caught her hand brandishing the ice cream spoon. Rukia gasped as he pushed her down onto the couch and pinned her below with his hands.
She looked up at him with the white spot on his nose and laughed. Rukia reached up and wiped it off, and tweaked his nose slightly. She laughed again.
"There, I've cleaned yours up. Now make it even and clean mine." Rukia smiled.
"Okay." Her eyes widened as Byakuya lowered himself over her.
"Wha-
He pressed his lips to her cheek and Rukia gasped as she felt his tongue flick out and lick the splotch of ice cream. She felt her entire body grow warm, as Byakuya's body stretched languorously on top of hers. His mouth moved down to her neck, where he started to nuzzle at the fair column.
Rukia did not know he had unbuttoned her blouse until she felt the air hit the parts of her chest not obscured by her bra. But by then, his palms were riding over her skin sensually, replacing the goosebumps with anticipatory warmth.
"Movie-time is over." Byakuya's voice was husky. "I do hope your classes tomorrow are in the afternoon, Rukia."
xXxXx
"W-What?" Renji shifted nervously in front of the executive desk, trying his best to avoid a deadly pair of grey eyes.
"Why are you so nervous, Abarai? Did you do something… wrong?" The tone was deadly and cold, and Renji felt his body shrink a little just listening to it.
"No, I didn't!" The redhead looked up in defiance, only to falter again before those scary eyes. How could Rukia ever talk of them as beautiful?
When Byakuya did not answer, Renji threw up his hands. "OKAY, FINE! It's my fault, okay? It's my fault that I forgot to check your organiser when you told me one week ago! Thus, I forgot to inform you that you had a chairperson meeting on the day Rukia was going to have her science conference! It is also my fault that I blurted it to her when she called for fun, and that now she would not allow you to go to her presentation! OKAY?"
"Very well and concisely said," Byakuya spoke quietly as he lifted a folder. "She would not allow me anywhere near Nagoya this week. Thus, I am confiscating your Lamborghini throughout this duration."
"WHAT! Not the new one!"
"The new one, for a week." Byakuya signed the folder and put it back on the table.
Curse you, Byakuya. So your girlfriend ignores you and you start being childish and take out your anger on me? You really have changed. Also, what a friend.
"I will be leaving the office a little early before today's meeting, so remember to keep all the work updated by one today."
In spite of his grumpiness, the redhead looked up in curiosity. "Whatever for?"
Byakuya continued to look through his documents without looking up at his assistant. "To get a present."
xXxXx
"She's going to kick their socks tomorrow!" Nel laughed happily as she placed a glass of water on the table.
"She would. She always does." Ichigo smiled, his brown eyes warm. Then, he lifted the glass and took a swig of the water. "Thanks, Nel. Also, for the invite."
Nel smiled and nodded. "She will need all the support she can get."
Ichigo nodded in turn then he pointed at the two invitation cards in Nel's hand. "Extra invitation?"
"Oh." Nel smiled slightly. "Byakuya-san couldn't make it so there's another free slot."
"The boyfriend can't make it to his own girlfriend's important conference?" Ichigo lifted his eyebrows.
Nel groaned. "Ichigo, give him a chance. Between you and Shinji, I don't know who's more hostile toward the idea of Rukia having a boyfriend." Nel smiled. "He really does love her very much. Wait till you see it."
"I can't wait," Ichigo muttered under his breath sarcastically but Nel did not hear him.
Just then, the doorbell rang and Nel gave Ichigo a quick smile. "Be right back." The long-haired girl hurried to the door and opened it. As her eyes widened, Byakuya bowed slightly in the hallway.
"Is Rukia in, Nel-san?"
Just then Byakuya heard the scraping of a chair against the floor and his eyes traveled past Nel's shoulder, fixing directly on the orange-haired boy who had gotten up from the dinner table.
"So I finally get to meet you, Kurosaki Ichigo." Byakuya extended his hand in a stiff manner.
"I have heard a lot about you as well, Kuchiki Byakuya." Ichigo took his hand and gave it an equally stiff shake.
Nel looked uncomfortably between both males. "Err, R-Rukia will be back in fifteen minutes. I will call her now. Please… er, make yourselves at home." She hurried off into her bedroom. Both Byakuya and Ichigo did not look at her, and settled down at the table at the same time.
The two men observed each other without a word for some time, before Ichigo finally spoke up. "So… how was your weekend?"
"It was very good," Byakuya replied. "I spent it here with Rukia for two days." He allowed some satisfaction to seep into his tone as he watched the orange-haired boy opposite him stiffen.
"Looking forward to Rukia's presentation?" Ichigo changed the subject and from his smug tone, Byakuya could easily tell that the boy knew he was not going to be able to be present then.
"I am. Very," Byakuya spoke quietly. "Unfortunately, there was a mix-up in my schedule which leaves me unable to attend her presentation. I am here to personally tell her today."
"I see. Must be very busy, eh?"
Byakuya nodded, ignoring the impulse to smash the dinner table into Ichigo's ugly face.
"So-"
A loud bang sounded in the apartment as the front door was thrown open. Rukia hurried in, looking breathless and very, very windswept. Her hair was flying all about her face, sticking out in messy strands and her face was slightly flushed with effort. She looked absolutely beautiful to Byakuya, whose hostile single line of lips immediately gave way into a small smile as he saw her.
"Rukia."
"I… I…" Rukia looked hurriedly between Byakuya and Ichigo who had both stood up from the table. "I…" She took in a deep breath. "Byakuya. Ichigo."
Nel walked out from her bedroom, looking slightly nervous. "You are home, Rukia. Byakuya-san came by just now to see you and er, Ichigo, well, we all will be going out for drinks later and…" She drifted off uncomfortably as her glance ticked to Byakuya, who walked forward.
"Rukia."
Rukia smiled at Byakuya. "What is it?"
"Nothing." He returned the smile simply. "I just came to personally tell you that I won't be able to come to your oral presentation this week. I know Renji has already informed you about that and-
Rukia nodded, cutting him off. "And you are not leaving another meeting for me, alright? I will be fine, I always am." She grinned slightly, and Ichigo frowned behind Byakuya even though the couple did not notice.
"I know." Byakuya smiled and he lifted his hand and touched it to Rukia's cheek. Ichigo twitched slightly.
"But I got you something to make up for my absence. Come, I will be leaving soon and won't take up much of your time. Walk with me?" One long arm offered itself to Rukia who took it readily.
"Nel-san, I will see you." Byakuya bowed to her.
"Goodbye, Byakuya-san."
"Kurosaki-san." He nodded curtly at the orange-haired boy.
"Byakuya-san." Ichigo answered with a gruff tone.
Byakuya and Rukia walked out the door.
"I hope you will have a wonderful meeting." Rukia smiled as she walked hand-in-hand with Byakuya to the parking lot.
"They are the same everyday, Rukia."
Rukia laughed.
"I really want to come to your presentation-"
"Nope." Rukia shook her head. "This time, just let me deliver the ultimatum. It is just a single presentation, no biggie." Rukia smiled. "I will let you know of the results the moment I step off the podium. You go to your meeting, and we will exchange details after that, okay?"
"Okay." Byakuya knew there was no dissuading Rukia when she was being like this. He could only blame his bigmouth of an assistant.
"But I got you something to make up for my absence, like I said." Byakuya reached into his Porsche and produced a big pale blue box tied up with a white ribbon. "I hope you like it. And good luck, you will be great."
Rukia took it and looked up at him. "There's no need for gifts for small things like this."
"I insist, Rukia."
Rukia smiled. "I know. Thank you."
"I will be off now. You are going out after this with them, aren't you?" Despite his placid tone, Rukia detected that little apprehensive feeling in Byakuya's voice. He was trying not to show it, but she knew he was feeling a little left out already. He remembered his promise to her to not question her social life, even if he struggled a little to do so. And she loved him for that.
"It's just drinks with the rest of the gang, Nel, Grimmjow, Ichigo, Shinji and the rest. I won't be out too late, I have a presentation in two days anyway, I need a lot of rest." Rukia smiled.
"I see." Byakuya smiled. "Have a fun time."
"Okay." Rukia stood up on tiptoes and before Byakuya realized it, she pulled him by the collars and kissed him squarely on the lips. Soft, sweet, gentle… Byakuya felt the slightest of anxiety and frustration melt away with her kiss. He pressed his lips harder against hers as did his hands around her body, almost lifting her up from the pavement. Their lips parted, allowing their tounges to touch sensually between their mouths. When they finally broke apart, both Byakuya and Rukia were breathless.
"There, that would keep you nice for three days." Rukia smiled cheekily, her cheeks pink.
Byakuya chuckled. "There was no need for you to rush home, I think I can handle fifteen minutes with Ichigo alone without killing him."
Rukia laughed as Byakuya opened his car door. "I will see you sometime, Rukia."
"See you."
xXxXx
Byakuya walked easily through the streets, making his way to the Azaris office building. He had deposited his car at the local car wash, preferring to do it himself this time rather than giving the job to the usual jockey or Renji.
He should probably hurry a little, the meeting was due in ten minutes. Byakuya picked up his speed, easily moving through the crowd of people walking down his way.
"My dear, it is you."
Byakuya's eyes widened as he heard that frail voice. His footsteps stopped as he turned to the left and saw the old woman sitting at the side of the road, a small foldable table of tarot cards in front of her.
The wrinkled face smiled at him. "Long time no see, my young one." The old eyes were bright. "And I can see it from your eyes. You have found her."
Byakuya remembered this woman, from so many months ago. Back then, he was his old self, immersed in work and women. Back then, when he cared for nobody. Renji had made her tell Byakuya his fortune in love through the tarot cards but he had left before the final one was shown. Byakuya hadn't cared, even though he knew this woman was skilled in the art of magic, through her careful eyes and hints that she had known that both Renji and himself had been Incubi.
Sun of the Arms. A poignant story. She is nearer than you think she is. But you will know soon, if you do not already.
And when you are hit inside, you change. You love... for eternity.
And this finally…
Byakuya walked over to the woman silently, keeping his eyes on her. The old woman only smiled at him. "My dear, you look very happy."
"What was the final card?" Byakuya heard himself ask.
The woman smiled wider as she turned a single card up on the table, without even looking at it. Byakuya caught side of the grey figure and the sharp sickle-like thing in the background of the card.
"You found her, and loved her. But… light and dark, they are not meant to unite together. Every second you keep her by your side, is every second of damnation to her soul."
Byakuya's eyes widened as he stared at the Grim Reaper on the tarot card that was upturned. "Arigato." The Incubus's voice was devoid of emotion as he took out a wad of cash from his wallet and left it on the table quietly before walking away, ignoring the protests of the gypsy woman.
xXxXx
Rukia sat down on her bed at night, after the night outing with her group of friends. She had missed spending time with them, and to just talk about life and everything under the sun (or moon, that is).
Shinji was still so funny, Hiyori was fierce but affectionate, Nel was Nel, Grimmjow was still playing the bad boy but now a bad boy in love, Orihime still loved eating those green-bean somethings, Ishida was still witty, Chad was still quiet, and Ichigo… Ichigo still looked at her with that warm brown-eyed longing look.
It felt as if it had been centuries that they had hung out together, and Rukia found herself partly guilty for it. She had then bought them drinks and proceeded to update herself with every little titbit about their lives.
And now she was alone in her room, and ready to unwrap the present Byakuya had left for her. The white ribbon fell away and her small hands opened the pale blue box.
Her eyes widened.
Something for your presentation. You don't have to use it, but I will be very happy if you do.
Rukia reached out and took the black-and-white dress out of the box. It was a formal dress, cut to a shot skirt that ended at the knees.
She felt a small smile curve her lips.
xXxXx
Friday evening.
Byakuya walked back to his office, feeling thoroughly tired and drained from the meeting. Today was Rukia's presentation, and also the day of his clan meeting. Once again, more problems and matters to settle. Byakuya walked up to his desk and sat back on his executive chair, closing his eyes as he did so. So many matters to take into consideration, so many parties to consider, so many enemies…
Every second you keep her by your side, is every second of damnation to her soul…
The pair of grey eyes shot open as Byakuya heard the old woman's voice resound in his head. He looked up at the ceiling, in deep thought.
You know that the both of you will not have a good ending as a couple, Byakuya…
Byakuya's eyes narrowed. Why was Unohana-sensei edging her poisonous words into his thoughts now? He tried to block them out, but he heard every single word crystal clear.
Then do I have to mention the vast difference of age between the both of you? The girl probably doesn't even know this supposed man she is in love with, because she does not even know that he is not human…
Byakuya closed his eyes.
And she does not know… that he feeds from her…
Byakuya's eyes shot open, as his hand fisted on the desk.
Is it okay… if we… don't do it today?
Byakuya's eyes softened just slightly as he heard those words whispered from Rukia's lips a few nights ago. He saw the pink blush and the guilty expression on his girlfriend's face as she looked away in shame. Why was she feeling like she was to be blamed?
It was his fault, never hers.
You found her, and loved her. But… light and dark, they are not meant to unite together. Every second you keep her by your side, is every second of damnation to her soul.
Byakuya's office door opened slightly and his secretary, Miko poked her head in. "Mister Kuchiki?" She gave him a seductive smile as she walked up to him in her high skirt. "Your coffee."
I love you, Byakuya, so I want to try. Us, I want to try…
Byakuya's hand fisted even more. We will make it work, Rukia…
The pale hand lifted and beckoned slightly to a surprised Miko, whose deep-red lips slowly curved into a knowing smile. She walked over to her young handsome boss and he pulled her to him easily. Miko did not even need any invitation as she finally kissed the young Kuchiki Byakuya.
I knew it… I knew this day would come.
The woman tasted horrible, worse than cardboard, and he hadn't even begun to suction her energy yet. It made him want to gag but he kept kissing her. She was touching him everywhere and Byakuya really hated her slimy hands, they were nothing like Rukia's.
But he didn't want to be a leech to Rukia, he didn't want to suck off her energy every single time. Then he could perhaps control himself better and make love to her like a normal man, and maybe even have sweet pillow talks with her afterward. Yes, that was it. He did not want an unconscious Rukia that was his own doing, no, he didn't want to treat her like a steady supply of food.
By doing this, then we will be okay, we will be normal. I won't have to feast off her.
That was the only thought that kept Byakuya going as he gathered up his will to suction that distasteful life energy from his secretary.
Rukia smiled happily as she observed the number in the elevator panel climb higher by the second. She looked down at what she was holding in her hand, and the petite girl couldn't help but beam happily.
She was really like a kid, and soon enough she would running to Byakuya for every little single happy occasion.
Just to tell him the presentation went well… and that I wore the dress he got me.
She felt herself smile in anticipation as the elevator doors opened. Rukia found herself hurrying in the direction of Byakuya's office. She reached the huge doors and eased them open, not even bothering to knock.
And felt everything inside her evaporate.
Byakuya was sitting at his office desk… but he wasn't alone. His arms were locked around a long-haired woman who was practically sitting in his lap. A woman with very short skirt... and he was kissing her. Kissing another woman.
Rukia gasped, and the photos she had been holding fell from her hand, scattering everywhere.
Byakuya's shocked face turned to her and his eyes widened in horror. He started to push the woman off him.
"I… I… I am.. I d-didn't… knock… I mean…" Rukia stumbled back from the door, her expression dazed. She hurriedly backed away, ignoring her scattered photos on the floor.
"Rukia!"
"I… " She whirled around and darted from Byakuya's office suite.
"RUKIA!" She heard his deep voice shout behind her, but she did not turn back. She kept running and she thought of the photos she had left on the floor. If he ever picked them up and looked at them, he would know she had pathetically come to just tell him about her presentation. And interrupted one of those make-out sessions he probably had with his secretary everyday from her knowledge.
Shit.
Why was she so stupid?
This was what she had waited for, all this time. The perfect little fairytale had finally turned into a lie, finally hit her full in the face. Of course a rich, handsome and successful man like him cared little for her. What was she thinking?
Rukia felt something warm slide down her cheek.
Damn it!
She was crying. Stop crying, you idiot Rukia! She picked up her pace. Almost to the elevator. And yes, it was still on this floor. She just had to make it inside before he could reach her. Before he could see her like this.
"RUKIA!" She heard him shout again urgently behind her as she jabbed the button and the lift immediately sprang open. She darted inside and desperately hit the 'Close' panel, and the lift began to slide close. She looked up slightly and saw Byakuya running as fast as he could towards her. She had had a head start, he was not going to be able to reach her in time. She hurriedly wiped away her tears and stepped away from the door as it closed… between them.
"SHIT!" Byakuya hit the closed elevator door with his hand.
Rukia.
She had come to see him again in his office. But this time…
"DAMN IT!" Byakuya could feel his heart pounding in fear. Why was he so stupid to kiss that woman?
He had seen Rukia before the lift closed. She was crying.
No, he had to catch her. He had to explain, he could not let her leave like this.
Byakuya headed to the fire stairs and waited for the door to swing close behind him. Then he let his demonic power take over his physical shell and shot down the stairs in a flash.
Byakuya opened the fire stairs door on the ground floor and dashed out into the grand foyer of the empire building. He looked this way and that. The foyer was almost empty, save for a few office staff milling around and shooting the young executive curious looks. No, he couldn't see her. He had made it down in record time, the lift would not have made it down yet. Had it?
He turned to the elevator display.
And felt his heart sink down to his polished shoes.
It had stopped at level ten.
Level ten, the only level which adjoined the building to the general administrative building next door.
Byakuya, I know how you work.
Byakuya hurried past the row of office tables, back to his suite, cursing the fact that he had left his car key in there.
"Mister Kuchiki?" He heard the female voice and turned to see his secretary posing sexily against his office door. "You done with her now? Shall we conti-"
"You are fired."
"HUH?" Her big pencilled eyebrows shot up in shock. "W-What?"
"I expect to receive your letter of resignation by tomorrow and an empty desk for my new secretary in the morning." Byakuya brushed past the shellshocked woman without even sparing her a single glance. He walked into the office and hurriedly retrieved his coat and car keys.
Byakuya stopped as he looked down at the mess on the floor.
Rukia's photos.
He remembered them dropping from her hand as she froze in shock at his office door.
Byakuya hurriedly bent down and scooped them up, turning them over.
His grey eyes widened.
They were pictures of her, at her presentation today. And she was wearing… his dress. The dress he had gotten for her. She looked so beautiful, smiling confidently at the podium as she conducted the seminar.
Byakuya felt the anger and frustration toss around insde him. Why… why did he even consider… such an option? Rukia had told him that she was going to contact him as soon as she finished her presentation… why had he been so stupid? Why had he gotten so caught up in his intense thoughts?
Kiss another woman… and spare Rukia her energy?
Byakuya threw his coat over his shoulders and hurried out of the office. There were more pressing matters now.
He had to see Rukia, and make it all right again.
Byakuya arrived at the front entrance of Amor Florals and looked at the sign hanging from the now-darkened shop.
"We are closed for three days starting today. Apologies for any inconvenience."
Byakuya gripped his hands tight as he stared at the words, and then he looked up at the lights of the Ukitake residence. There were none in Rukia's room.
Byakuya walked to the side alley of the house and grabbed a pipe that snaked upwards. Using it as leverage, he launched himself up into the air and grabbed hold of the railing before jumping easily into Rukia's balcony.
Byakuya stood out on the balcony and looked into her room. It was very dark as well, and from what he could smell, she wasn't in. Byakuya's heart grew heavy as he stared in through the glass. He tried the balcony door but it was locked.
Where was Rukia?
He was really worried, and scared. She had apparently come home and taken off again. Where? Where had she gone? Was she safe?
Byakuya parked his Porsche into a vacant parking space, his eyes fixed on the bright window of the apartment unit several floors above. The Incubus did not even bother if he had parked his car right, he immediately walked to the elevator.
He had to know if Rukia was alright. He had talk to her.
Byakuya arrived on the designated floor and immediately swept down to the familiar apartment door. He gave a brief rap on the wood and stood back slightly, trying to suppress all the terrible emotions within him. After a minute, Byakuya watched the door open slightly, as a pair of turquoise eyes looked out at him.
"I wish to speak to Rukia."
"She's not in," Nel replied simply. Her tone was cold.
"She is not at her home, and probably won't be for three more days. She is in here." Byakuya placed his hand on the door frame.
"When I said she's not in, she's not in." Nel boldly moved her body to the doorframe, her busty chest about to connect with Byakuya's hand. Byakuya immediately withdrew his hand.
"Ha! Not touchy-feely suddenly? After kissing some other girl-" Nel clapped a hand to her mouth in horror. "Shit," she whispered under her breath.
"I really need to talk to Rukia."
"Well, she doesn't want to talk to you."
"I have to explain to her."
"Tell me…" Nel looked at Byakuya in disdain. "Is there any excuse for kissing a girl who's not your girlfriend? Slip of your lips perhaps? Oh no, you must have mistaken her!" Nel slapped her hand to her forehead in mock alarm.
Byakuya ignored the fiery impulse to punch Rukia's roommate in the face and barge in the apartment. No, that would not solve their problem, and would only turn Rukia against him. "I really must speak to her."
"Come back in ten years… maybe then she will even look at you." Nel slammed the door in his face.
Rukia covered her ears in her room, as tears ran down her cheeks. She bit down on the blanket in her lap, muffling her sobs.
Nel was putting up a fight to Byakuya outside and hitting him with harsh words, but they hurt Rukia all the same. Finally, she heard the sound of the door closing and then soft footsteps padded up to her bedroom.
"Rukia?" A small knock. "Can I come in?"
Rukia took a deep breath. "I think… I'm just going to sleep." No good. Her voice came out hoarse, and cracked with tears.
The door opened and Rukia saw Nel standing at the doorway, looking very concerned. Rukia hurriedly wiped the watery streaks away from her face and sniffled.
Pathetic.
"No, I think I will just rest a bit… it will be-"
"Of course it will be fine." Rukia's eyes widened as Nel walked up to her and leaned forward to embrace her. "But today, I'm going to be sleeping with you. No buts, and ignore how lesbian-like that comment sounded. I'm scared tonight anyway… I think there's an unseen poltergeist in my room who's been hitting on me for two days."
Rukia had to chuckle, and the sound bubbled up in her thick throat. Then, a fresh batch of tears overcame her once more. "I… Thank you."
"Nah, you're the one doing me a favour."
xXxXx
Morning found Rukia with puffy eyes ringed with dark shades. She had not slept well at all throughout the night, only managing one or two hours of uneasy sleep before her emotions overwhelmed her all over again.
And the evidence was written all over her face the next day, she could not even use any excuse to cover them up.
"Eat up." Nel attempted a cheery smile at Rukia from across the table when they finally sat down for breakfast. "How about we go biking today at campus? It's a nice, sunny day."
Rukia knew her housemate really meant well, but she could not drag her body to do so much at the time. "I… I think I'm just going to sit home and catch up on assignments."
Both of them knew it was a lie, Rukia was no procrastinator when it came to homework.
"Okay! Then you can help me with mine as well!" Nel gave Rukia's hand a squeeze. "I will bring out the torture chamber after breakfast!"
Suddenly the phone rang and Nel gave Rukia another smile before walking over to it.
"Hello?"
Rukia lifted her spoon and tried to spoon some cereal down her throat. They tasted like melted clay.
"I… don't think so," Nel whispered into the phone. "I'm staying home with Rukia for homework today." Nel turned her back on Rukia as she continued talking. "Shut up! Homework is important too. We can give the carnival a go next week, why are you-"
"Go to the carnival."
Nel's head shot up and she slowly turned to look at Rukia. The black-haired girl smiled, and this time her smile, even as shaky as it seemed, was sincere and firm. "We can tackle the homework at night."
Nel covered the mouthpiece and looked at Rukia with a steady expression.
"NO. I'm not going. I'm not leaving you, even for a second. Plus, the maintenance man will be coming in an hour or two."
"Nel, I'm alright." Rukia smiled the best she could. "Go on. I will be alright for a couple of hours. And I know that it hurts like hell when you fall down a building so I won't attempt that."
Nel's expression twitched as if she was going to laugh, and then she removed her hand from the mouthpiece. "FINE, Grimmjow! Three hours tops!"
xXxXx
Rukia walked to the kitchen table as she carried a hot cup of instant noodles in her hand. She turned on her laptop and opened the word document containing her recent journal appraisal. A few hours of work would take her mind off things, they always do. Work was her faithful sanctuary, they gave her a sense of control and just her own time to think things through and keep a clear head.
It was going to be fine, and then Nel would come back. Then maybe they could bake cookies or whatever it was that girls did to get over cheating boyfriends…
Rukia was on to her second paragraph of appraisal when she heard the doorbell buzz. She put down the instant noodle cup and walked to the door. It must be the maintenance man. But just to be sure, she looked in the keyhole. And stumbled back.
Byakuya heard the footsteps withdraw slightly from the door and he knew. He had watched the fierce housemate, Nel, leave just half an hour ago and knew this was one of the chances he should probably take.
"Rukia, it's me," he quickly spoke up.
Silence.
"Rukia, can you open the door? I need to talk to you."
Silence.
"I know you are in there, Rukia. Please." He pounded the door slightly, but not too hard in case it alarmed her.
Then he heard the small voice, so defeated and small it hurt him. "I don't want to talk. Please leave."
He heard the soft footsteps pad away from the door.
"Rukia!" He rose his voice and knocked harder. She did not come back to the door.
Rukia sat on her bed, staring at the unfinished critical appraisal on her laptop. She had moved from her spot in the living room into her bedroom and shut her bedroom door, so she would not listen to Byakuya pounding on the door or think about him standing right outside the apartment. He left shortly afterward, because the buzzing and knocking stopped.
How could everything change so much? Just a few days ago, Byakuya had slept in this very room, hugging her warm and cozy. Just a few days ago, he told her… that he wasn't ever going to leave her side.
And just yesterday… he was kissing someone else.
Rukia felt that bitter feeling start to tickle the back of her throat.
Rukia had told herself over and over again, that he never did have feelings for her. That it was impossible that a handsome, successful man like him would single her out just for his affections and love. And then, when it all came true… she was left in broken pieces.
How foolish. How weak.
He had been a playboy right from the start, and she still fell in love with him. He had been the man to frequent love hotels, changing partners like daily clothes… and she still fell in love with him. Maybe if she had fell in love with his money or status, it would have been so much easier. She would have gotten him to buy her all the luxuries in the world and then keep them for herself when they finally broke up.
But Rukia hadn't, she had fallen in love with the person within Byakuya. She had fallen in love with the man who bashfully forced her to kiss him, who enjoyed whispering in her ear, and who washed the greens with a smile in her kitchen before dinner.
A tear slid down Rukia's cheek.
But it was all a lie… what felt so real had really been all a lie. It had been so real… that tenderness she saw in his eyes everytime she caught him looking at her, the way he would hold her close, those gentle lips of his. She really believed that he treasured her, cherished her… even loved her. But in the end, she hadn't meant anything to him at all.
Byakuya leaned his head against the pillar as he stared up at the balcony of Rukia's apartment. Her bedroom window had the curtains down and he could not look in to catch a sight of her.
He had stayed outside her apartment all night and into the morning, sleeping in his Porsche. He could not bring himself to go home… not until he had made everything right again.
For the hundredth time, Byakuya cursed his mistake in judgement. Why had he tried to figure out a way to try to burden Rukia less? Why had he think that kissing that stupid secretary would make things better for them? So he could be slightly fuller, and then he wouldn't tire out Rukia with his need for human energy? So she could enjoy her time with him, instead of having to sleep off more hours after their time together?
His actions had been foolish. Even if it had worked, that would mean constant kissing (Byakuya would not go for more than that) with other women and he would never take to that. Not to mention, that woman had tasted like crap.
And now his actions had backfired on him… with serious consequences.
Byakuya's hands gripped into tight fists, more to prevent his hands from shaking than out of anger with himself.
Then he heard that purr of a voice. "Is there anything I can help you with, Mister? You look like you could need… something."
Byakuya's eyes shot open to stare into the brown eyes of the busty woman now standing in front of him. She was dressed in a white blouse and short skirt, and now pouted her lips in a slight smile. "I was just coming down from my boyfriend's unit, when I noticed you." She gave him a welcoming smile.
Why? Why do I attract women like this?
Why did I use to find horrible women like this attractive? Why can't I have a cleaner history? Why can't I just be with Rukia… and love her right, the way I want to? Why do so many things threaten us, even if we are deeply in love with each other?
The woman smiled as she watched Byakuya close his eyes again. Oh, this man was sexy. He was downright sexy and handsome, and had a killer build. Did he stay around her? How come she had never noticed him before, whenever she came to visit Kaede? Oh, she was going to get her hands on him. And if he was rich, it would be a plus point on top of the sex. Even her dear boy Kaede should not blame her what she was going to do.
The woman leaned forward toward Byakuya, who appeared to have fallen asleep as he leaned against the pillar. As her deep-red lips were about to connect with his, a pale arm shot out and grabbed the woman's neck.
The brown eyes shot open in shock… and fear.
"Don't kiss me with your foul lips."
"I… I…" The woman started to struggle but Byakuya pushed her easily against the wall and tightened his grip on her neck.
"It is because of women like you… that I am not with her right now. That I hurt her… and made her angry and upset." Byakuya's cold tone was laced with silent fury.
Byakuya applied more strength to his hands as the woman's eyes began to roll upward.
Suddenly, the soft warm voice of laughter sounded in Byakuya's head.
What if you happened to be the office boy, and that you were masquerading as the executive all along?
What if you were actually a prince, not an executive? Then I think…
No, Rukia. What if I was… something not human? Would you still laugh then?
Byakuya's grey eyes shot open. The Incubus took a deep breath… and he let go.
The woman dropped into a heap before him, coughing and sputtering. She looked up with fearful eyes at Byakuya, suddenly feeling very scared of the demented, handsome man.
"Leave. And if you tell anyone about this, I will kill you. Also, the least you could do… would be to stay faithful to your poor boyfriend."
After he watced the scared woman run off, Byakuya leaned back against the pillar and continued watching Rukia's apartment balcony. It had been a very long time since he had lost control and almost murdered a human like that, allowing his emotions to cloud reason. He was upset, he was angry, he was frustrated, desperate and very, very… scared.
But he would not kill. He wanted to be humane, closer to a human as much as he could. Closer to Rukia.
If he only knew where to start.
xXxXx
Complications, complications. Don't we just hate the painful moments? But no painful moments = no story. :)
This chapter should be a lot to digest, and well, if I were to be honest, probably not one of my better ones. I wrote this in a hurry, the overall story is in there, but the portrayal... well, you will tell me about it. ;) I'm alright with this chapter, but I know it can be better but because I don't want to delay the update, this is the best I can come up with for you. :)
Well, the storyline is finally starting to take off. There are a lot in this chapter which will play prominently into the future chapters (Unohana's phone conversation, Ulquiorra and his phone call, etc) So for now, Byakuya and Rukia are lovey-dovey, only to get thrown once again into another complication when the Incubus tries to make their relationship albeit, a little more normal. You can't really blame him, because he feels guilty for sucking off Rukia's energy so he's trying his best to avoid that. And now... poor Rukia is hurt. I can't tel you how long she's going to stay hurt (I got somewhat upset for her when I was writing this chapter down) but this event will also play an important role in future chapters. :)
Okay now. Answering time. A couple of you have posted questions on the recent chapter, on two important aspects. So first about the possibility of demon-human children. Yes, it is possible... but VERY VERY unlikely because it only happens rarely during Sacred Exchanges. So while Byakuya has performed this with Rukia, their chance to produce a hybrid is very very low in itself, though not entirely an impossibility... which is why our Bya-kun is sad. Whether or not something like this will happen later in the story, I honestly have no idea yet. XD
The second... about the Kokutai ritual (I think it's really neat, because I like the meaning of the word very much = sovereignty). In short, the leader of the demons perform this ritual on his Purification Period day (the day he becomes a mortal) to all his followers. When performing this ritual, all followers who are in the ritual will share the Purification Period as well, which means all of them will turn into mortals. The reward? If the Kokutai is succesfully performed after the Purification Period day is over, the leader will be enhanced with stronger power and endurance. It's like a shortcut ritual to easy power, but with high risk because you never know if you are going to get attacked and your whole clan wiped out on that day (since everyone is mortal). Kuchiki Soujun performed this ritual which is why he died with his wife and followers under one attack but Ginrei was able to rescue baby Byakuya then.
I hope that answered some of the questions you posted in the reviews, you're welcome to ask some more if my explanation isn't so clear.
Now I would like to answer the reviews for the previous chapter! :D *rubs hands* Actually, there's something I want to talk about my writing, but I will leave that for now. I think I've realized a lot of important things about my writing and I feel a bit stupid right now (I seriously do owe Loivissa and fruitbat some nice cookies). Will write more about this in next chapter, I hope. :)
byakuchiki: Thank you very much! I'm really happy that the story helps lighten your mood for the day and I hope this one will too! :) The scrabble scene... one of my better ideas. :D
Kichou: Thank you very much! :D
Lilian Violet: Thank you, and I really hope you will continue to enjoy the story. Nice prediction, and pretty close. :D :D
BlackBurningHeart: Thank you very much, I always loved reading your reviews, because you give blow-by-blow accounts of what you think and i really appreciate it! :) I hope the newest chapter doesn't make you too sad.
Jinks: Thank you! I hope you like the new update! :)
Day-sis: I missed you! Hope you're doing fine... and you like the new chapter. How's the chat thread going? XD
ReckoningDay: Thank you very much! Hope you like the new chapter. :)
ANF-Byaruki: Actually, to be really honest, I think it's starting go downhill already. I realized my writing degrades after 10+ chapters. *sigh* But I hope this chapter was good enough for your anticipation, and do let me know what you think. :)
LuciL06: Thank you very much, I hope you like the new one. I hope for a ByaRuki baby too. :P
Namine1993: Thank you. Yes, Byakuya will always want to be with Rukia no matter what, he borders on obssessive stalker mode. ;)
YuzurihaNoRyuu: The chapter was your favourite? I'm pleasantly surprised, and thank you very much! I hope you like the new one, even though the bad complications are starting again. *sad smile*
Bleachfanfictionall: I thank you for the review and PM. I hope you like the new chapter, i replied you just a day before I started writing it. :D
vicky73: Thank you! I hope you like the new chapter! I know, their love will always be a bittersweet one actually, one being an Incubus and human trying to kee their love intact. :) You hope they have many children in the end? XD Byakuya will be very appreciative of your wishes lol XD I can't find time so much to do Anteros because I focus on Demons. It's either this or that one for now, I'm really sorry. But I hope the new chapter is good. :)
freeprincess: Thank you very much! I'm glad you like the three stories, and you spared Demons a read. :) Hope you enjoy the new chapter.
CielDoll: Best review for the last chapter, 'nuff said. XD
reicheru-san: Thank you! :D
arlingtonsteward: Thank you very much, and I hope you like the new chapter. Byakuya and Rukia are hoping for a happy ending too. XD
FreeSoul1990: Thank you! Here, we are approaching the chorus to said song! XD I hope you like the new chapter. :)
DRUON: Thank you for the review, and hope you like the newest update! :)
isara-love: Thank you for the welcome *hugs* I'm just really busy so I tend to go missing for some time. :) Yes, naughty Bya-kun with his sleeping bag and secret plans. ;)
byarukixOxO: Lol, thank you very much! I hope you enjoy the newest chapter though there's not much hardcore action. ;)
Hikara-Hime: Hey, long time no see! You did? :) Awww... I hope you like the newest chapter. :) Yeah, I haven't been there in a while, thought the FC became very bare after a while. I will remember to drop by sometime though. Thank you again :)
RukiaCHAN 1: Thank you very much! Hope you like this new update! :D
couples lover: Thank you! Whether or not they finally get to produce children is a long way off in the story. Hope you look forward to the progression though, regardless of the end. :)
L: Yes, he is very afraid of losing Rukia's love. :) And now, they are facing more complications than ever. Hope you enjoy the chapter, and look forward to more! ;)
Mai: Thank you very much! We are now moving through the plot bit by bit, and now the hard part comes in. *hides* Hope you like this chapter! ;)
Sakimi1014: Thank you very much, and hope you like this one! :D
KaRaNature: Thank you very much! Yes, they were very comfortable with each other but now the plot thickens! Hope you will enjoy the future updates of Demons! :D
silverqueen: Thank you so much! I will definitely write more when I have the time. It's moving more into the angsty difficult parts now, the fluffiness are slowly decreasing, but I'm hoping it becomes more exciting for the readers. :)
cintiasnakeblack: No worries, I'm happy you still read Demons. :) I have answered your question in the paragraphs above so yes, humans and demons can mate and produce children, but it's very very rare. I hope you like this chapter. :)
dethangelx: Thank you so much! I'm both a ByaRuki and IchiRuki fan myself ;D
Iddy: Thank you very much, I'm honoured to receive your review and attention for this fic. Do provide feedback if you feel I'm lacking in parts, though. :) And lastly, I hope you continue to enjoy this story.
Crystalline Arch: Thank you so much! This couple is now moving from fluffy territory to dangerous waters now, so I'm hoping it will be good! :D Hope you like the newest chapter!
seras3791: I hope you like the newest chapter. Thank you so much for the review, and i will continue to update in my spare time! :D
midnight shadow of darkness: Heh, you summed up the love scenes pretty nicely in the review! :D Yes, Bya is torn guilty as he does not reveal his true identity to Rukia, and at the same time pines for a solid future with her despite their differences. And yes, a bed with Rukia is a bed on Byakuya's top list of beds! XD Hope you like the newest chapter! :D
su kuchiki: Thank you very much, and hope you like this newest one! :D
Jinjs: Thank you so much! I have answered your question in the note above (because a lot of readers were asking the same thing), feel free to question again if I was not clear. :) Very honoured that you think this story is capable of being published, though it probably needs a lot of tidying up and a lot more details and plot! ;)
Lucia Tsukiyomi-hime: Thank you so much! :)
Voidy: Voidy-san, how are you? Hey, I'm not a pervert. Okay fine, maybe a little... I'm just very naughty lol. XD I read the fic already, and loved it! Thanks for sharing! The writing is beautiful, I can never write Indonesian *hides*
Nikki-4: Thank you very much, I hope you like the latest chapter!
reecei: I love writing delicious byaRuki scenes myself XD But now they are moving past warm love into the more serious troubles, but I hope i will be able to keep the story enjoyable enough to read! I'm focusing on demons so far (because of the votes on the poll), so the other stories will probably sit there for a bit. Will definitely update when I have the time. once again, thank you for the review!
Oicherealtai: Your astute chapter summary was so adorable XD I hope the new update lifts up your depression slightly (and not deepen it more) Thank you for the review! :D
Pamila: Thank you very much, hope you like the new chapter!
compa16: I agree with you... miniature ByaRuki children, mmmm... ;)
I have answered all the reviews now, thank you very much once again, and do know that I am very appreciative of your time to write them out. To see you all soon again~~
And of course, do review and let me know what you think about this chapter, I would really like to hear what you have to say. :)