Lost in love chapter 8
Chapter 8: Next stop; true feelings
Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach! ;P
"Rukia!"
"Renji!" Rukia saw the red haired boy wearing jeans and fitted shirt that has almost shaped the body of the wearer, approaching her. She looked at Renji and the memory of the hug that he gave her last Monday became fresh once more. She couldn't forget it. How could she when Renji smiled at her like he owns her. What she feared came true. Now, she's very uncomfortable around him and sometimes she feels like she wanted to do something to make it stop.
"Hey! I'm not late, am I?" Renji smiled at Rukia. He felt wonderful when he saw her standing waiting for him. "I'm sorry if I am."
"Hey, no worries. You're just in time. Besides, Ichigo and Inoue aren't here yet. Uhm... Why don't you take a sit first?" Rukia pointed at the chair in front of her. They were in a coffee shop because that was the place that Ichigo said they will meet. She was the first one to arrive because she didn't want Ichigo and Inoue waiting for her and be annoyed. But when she saw Renji running towards her she thought that maybe it was a better idea to be late so she wouldn't have to be alone with Renji even for a few minutes.
Whenever she saw Renji, she felt sad and happy at the same time. She felt sad because she didn't know how to tell Renji that she will never feel the same way as him. But, Renji looked happier since he expressed his feelings for her. How could she break his heart? Rukia couldn't do it and she didn't want to hurt a good friend. For Rukia, Renji didn't do anything wrong but to like her and it wasn't his fault to feel that way. Liking someone is not something you planned but a sudden emotion that you'll have, that the heart cannot stop.
She also felt happy because she thought that she was fortunate enough that someone will have feelings for her. Although she had experience before, she knew herself. She's not the kind of girl that a guy will fall in love to. She's small, looks like a boy and has been a loner ever since she could remember. Those were her perceptions to herself. She had no confidence at all that someone truly loved or even just liked her. And it wasn't also helping that she doesn't trust other people aside from her brother.
"Hey, where are we going by the way? That carrot top didn't tell. Maybe he didn't really know where to take us! Huh! I thought so. He's just a show off!" Renji didn't hide from Rukia the fact that he disliked Ichigo.
"Why don't you give him a chance? He's really nice. And we should try to get along with them. It will be awkward if you'll keep on going at other's faces." Rukia looked away from Renji. She hated it when Renji starts acting this way.
"Fine. For you, I'll be on my best behavior. Just don't let that boy near me or I'll break his bones!"
"Renji why don't you like Ichigo? I've told you a couple of times how much he means to me. How important the two of you are. That I don't like it when the two of you argue. But all of it were pointless. You two still say the worst things that you both can come up with. Why? Has he ever done anything to you that I didn't know?" Rukia stared at Renji's eyes inquiring him with answers.
"Rukia, it's not that I hate him. Well, yeah, I don't like him but it's because... It's just that... Hhhmmm... Never mind. Forget it. You won't understand." Renji leaned on his chair and sighed.
"Come on. Tell me. We're friends right?" Rukia was curious as to why Renji didn't like Ichigo. If she could do anything to stop the two from arguing whenever they see each other, she would gladly do it.
"Well... Alright. I don't like him because I hate the way he looks at you."
Rukia's eyebrows raised. She didn't understand what Renji meant. "Renji, what do you mean by, the way he looks at me? Does he look at me like there's something wrong?"
"No, he looks at you like he owns you! He smiles whenever his eyes were on you, he stares deeply into your eyes and I can feel that he likes you! I hate it so much because I get jealous when I see him staring at you which always happen. He never passes a chance to look at you! Tsk! He doesn't even hide his feelings!" Renji crossed his arms and looked away from Rukia. He had just admitted to her that he was jealous of Ichigo over her. Renji felt embarrassed but not that much.
The week that passed, Ichigo and Renji has seen each other a couple of times. Renji was always observing Ichigo in fear of losing Rukia over to him. He watched Ichigo carefully and even though he didn't see Ichigo making a move to the girl, Renji felt that one day Ichigo will try to get Rukia's attention.
"Renji, maybe you're exaggerating it. Why would Ichigo do that? And I never saw him looking at me like I'm a treasure. We're friends and we always smile at each other." Rukia thought over what Renji had said. She never noticed Ichigo acting like that. She was the one who always smile when she sees Ichigo. She was excited to be with him and has been thinking of him too much lately.
Rukia knew she felt something special for him. But she didn't know what it was yet. She wanted to see Ichigo always, to be near him, likes talking to him and enjoys his company so much. 'I'm scared that this feeling might lead to something serious. I don't want that. I have to settle this today. Figure out what my feelings could be and if I'm right, I have to stop it.' Rukia inwardly sighed.
"Rukia, I'm a guy and I know how men look at a girl they like. He likes you and I can feel it."
"Renji, have you forgotten the fact that he has a girlfriend? He couldn't possibly like me. I can't believe it."
"Fine then but," Renji stood up and sat on the chair next to Rukia. He leaned over her and whispered in her ear. "What about you? I mean do you like him?"
Rukia blushed. Renji was so close and his breath was on her. It was uncomfortable and she could tell that he was now starting to make a move on her.
"Ho-how ca-can I li-like him? He's just a friend. I to-told you that a c-co-couple of t-times." Rukia kept on stuttering because Renji wasn't moving away and he was very close to her face.
Renji smiled. He was glad of the effects that he had on Rukia. He made a decision last week to be much closer to her and try to court her if he would have a chance. "That's great! I knew that, I was just making sure of it."
"Kuchiki! Abarai!" Inoue's voice boomed across the two sitting at the table. She was running towards them holding Ichigo, or rather dragging him.
"We're so sorry! We didn't mean to be late! Were you waiting for so long?" Inoue looked at Renji and saw him and Rukia sitting beside each other and apparently too close. Renji was still leaning towards Rukia and didn't bother to move. He narrowed his eyes at Ichigo which didn't go unnoticed by the orange haired boy.
"It's okay, Renji and I passed the time talking." Rukia smiled at Inoue then shifted her eyes to Ichigo. She smiled at him and she could feel that gladness washed through her when she saw Ichigo. She was glad because now Renji wouldn't do unnecessary things.
Renji saw Rukia's gesture towards Ichigo. They just saw each other and Renji was pissed off already. He really couldn't stand it when Rukia smiles at the other guy, or when Ichigo calls her by her first name. "'Bout time you two showed up. I thought you decided to ditch us and go someplace you'll enjoy without someone to bother you!" Renji sarcastically snapped at Ichigo. He was looking directly at Ichigo's amber eyes.
"Watch your mouth DOG!"
"Make me STUPID CARROT!
"Renji! Cut it out!" Rukia narrowed her eyes at Renji's remark. She turned to the couple and directed her next words to them. "Uhm will you please give us a minute?" Rukia stood up and pulled Renji from his chair and went away from Inoue and Ichigo.
"Renji, promise me that you're not gonna do anything or even say something against Ichigo. If you won't, I'm going to end this now and just go home. Please! Promise me!" Rukia pleaded and a very sad expression was on her face, emphasizing every word she said.
Renji looked at Rukia. 'How can I not give her what she wants when she's talking like her life depends on it? Why is it very important for her not hurt the orange bastard?' Renji was starting to get irritated of Rukia.
"Fine! I won't say anything anymore but he better not be in my way!"
"Thanks Renji, I appreciate it." Rukia smiled at Renji and it made Renji's heart warm.
They went back to their table were Ichigo and Inoue were waiting. Ichigo was narrowing his eyes the time he saw Rukia dragged Renji away and leaned to him. When he saw them walking back he averted his gaze at Inoue.
"So, where are we going? Is it near?" Rukia asked Ichigo. Her eyes were glowing and she was really excited.
"Oh, Uhm..." nervous was what Ichigo was feeling. In truth, he didn't have a clue as to where they'll go. He thought for the whole week where to take them but still he couldn't think of any place. While on the way to meet Rukia he was wishing that an idea would pop in his head.
"Uhm... I was thinking of... Of... Of bringing... Of bringing you to... T-To... to... To the... MALL!" Ichigo blurted out when he saw two girls passing by with paper bags from malls. He didn't intend to say it out loud.
"What!" three people shouted out. One with an inquiring and trying to be sweet tone, another with sarcasm and the last one with wonder.
"Hahaha! Hahaha! Hahaha! You're kidding right? Hahaha! Rukia, is this the guy you're so proud of a minute ago? I thought you said that this guy is amazing and will take us somewhere we'll definitely like? Hahaha!" Renji said between fits of laughter.
"Renji! Stop it! I'm sure Ichigo has an explanation, right?" Rukia looked at Ichigo with hopeful eyes.
Ichigo stared back at Rukia and smiled with embarrassment. "Yes, of course. Well... I-I w- I was-I thought that maybe... Maybe I should show you around the mall because... Because you should be familiarize with it! Yeah! That's right. I mean, so that next time you can come here whenever you just like! And aside from that since this is like a "double date" I thought that maybe we could just hang out and do some stuff in the mall. Perhaps we could watch a movie, go bowling or even skate. You know, stuff that couples usually do." Ichigo was amazed with himself. He didn't know how he thought of all the things he said in a flash. He was even stopping on purpose so he would have time to think of what he would say and now he's relieved and could breathe again.
"So, what do you think?" he looked at Rukia, hoping that even though it sucks to go to a mall and really "date" he wished that Rukia would just agree with him.
Rukia was contemplating what Ichigo said. If they will watch a movie she has to sit beside Renji and he will probably touch her inside the movies. 'That's not a good idea. I must refrain him from touching me again. But if we bowl I will embarrass my self in front of them because I can't bowl! I don't hang out my with my friends so much before so I don't go bowling. But I love skating. It has been a long time since I've skate. I think it will be fun to do it again.' Rukia weighed every options she's got. Thinking carefully of what to do next.
"I think that's a great idea!" Inoue suddenly shouted. "That's good. We could do all three things and we could enjoy our own dates Kuchiki. Don't you think so? It will be fun! Come on! Let's go!"
"Alright! Since you want to, then I think we should! I also want to skates. Renji?"
"fine! It's your decision that counts anyway. As long as you like it, then I think it's cool."
"Well, let's go then. We should hurry. Some movies will start in about an hour." Ichigo added while holding his girlfriend's hand and started walking.
Rukia was sitting between the two boys inside the cinema. Renji was on her left side and Ichigo was on her right while Inoue was sitting on Ichigo's other side. Inoue was covering her ears because the sound was deafening since they chose an action movie. She didn't want to watch it but the other three voted for some bloodbath. Inoue wanted to watch a romantic movie since it was a date with Ichigo after all and watching an action movie won't make her cuddle on him and neither will he.
It was getting bored for Inoue and nothing on the screen caught her eyes. She wished that the movie will finish soon so they could go bowling already. 'Maybe when we bowl I'll have fun. I just wish Ichigo can sense that I'm not interested anymore.' She looked at Ichigo and saw him staring straight in to the movie. 'Who am I kidding? How can he? He's so caught up in watching and not even taking his eyes off of it.'
Inoue was feeling uncomfortable and decided to go to the women's room. She turned to Ichigo and faced him. "Uhm... Ichigo, I'll just go to use the toilet."
"Do you want me to go with you?" Ichigo asked Inoue but wasn't taking his eyes off the screen he was still watching and too engaged with the story to even bother looking at his girlfriend.
"That's not necessary, I can go alone. I'll be back." Inoue then stood up and avoided standing too straight or blocking the other watchers' view of the screen.
"hhhhhmmm... I think I should buy some time in the bathroom. Even just for a couple of minutes." talking to herself often has made Inoue an expert in it. Expressing her annoyance with what happened to herself. She gave the movie an hour and yet nothing interest her. She was bored like a kid who was in a playground but no one to play with. While alone she thought of going outside and wait for the three people watching with her to finish but, Ichigo was one of them and she couldn't leave him alone. Even if she was sure that he wouldn't notice it since he didn't even look at her when she went away from him. In the end she decided to just give the movie a couple of time without her so she stayed in the women's room for a few more minutes.
"Rukia, I'll just buy some more popcorn. Do you want some drinks?" Renji whispered to rukia who was sitting beside her.
The closeness made Rukia a little bit uncomfortable so in order for Renji to move away quickly she told him she wanted some coke.
Renji stood up quietly and crouched his way out of the cinema to avoid disturbing other watchers. He didn't notice Inoue doing the same thing. They were both going outside thinking that their date was with someone else aside from them. Renji thought Rukia will not be left alone with Ichigo because Inoue was still with them and likewise, Inoue thought Ichigo won't be with Rukia only because she also thought that Renji was with them. They made their way out and left Ichigo and Rukia with each other.
Ichigo saw from the corner of his eyes that Renji moved and when he looked at him he saw the guy standing up.
'Rukia, where's Renji going?'
"Oh! He said he'll get some popcorn and drinks for me. To tell you the truth, I am kinda hungry."
"Well then, do you want to eat lunch already? Or some sandwiches perhaps?" Ichigo asked Rukia. He didn't like the idea of Rukia being hungry. She's small and looks very fragile that he felt like he had to take care of her.
"I'm fine. Like what I told you I'm just KINDA hungry. Not that much. I can still manage it. Besides, Renji's getting some food." Rukia smiled warmly at Ichigo and it was reflected by the light coming from the screen that it makes the smile glow even more.
Mentioning Renji's name made Ichigo's eyebrows narrow with irritation. He looked at Rukia and decided that it was the best time to talk about it before the man with the blazing red hair comes back.
"Rukia, what is going on with you and Renji? I mean are you two really dating or seeing each other?"
"What! Who said that?" Rukia was wide eye when she heard Ichigo's question. "Ichigo how can you say that?"
"Well, for starters it looks like there IS something going on between the two of you. I mean he's always hovering over you and he looks at me like I'm stealing one of his prize possessions. Not only that, he doesn't let you talk to me alone and even looks at me like he'll kill me whenever I come closer at you."
"Ichigo it isn't like that. Alright I'll admit it. Renji is... He... He is... He is courting me." Rukia looked away from Ichigo. She didn't know why but she suddenly had an urge to avoid his eyes that was pinning her down.
"What? He's making a move on you? I knew it! Rukia, stay away from him as much as you can. You can't possibly trust him! He's a stupid person who only thinks of himself and DOESN'T really care about other people. I'm pretty sure he doesn't really like you and his just using yo-"
"Ichigo what are you saying? I'm sorry but you absolutely have no business in my problem! You have no right to say that." Rukia snapped at Ichigo while he was talking and insulting Renji. Even though she and Ichigo are in good terms she couldn't let the orange haired guy to just throw words at her other friend. She didn't like it when Ichigo started telling her to stay away from Renji.
Ichigo was dumbstruck. He had forgotten completely that he was talking to Rukia and not Inoue. Rukia had her own views and opinions and at the same time cautious. she knew what she's doing and respects everyone's thoughts including his. 'How could I be stupid? I shouldn't have said that. Now she'll think bad of me.'
Ichigo sighed. He looked at Rukia and saw the girl looking down. Covering her eyes with her hair. She was embarrassed by the way that she talked to ichigo. She didn't mean to say those words to him. She always had those feelings like she needed to protect her friends, and since Renji was one of them she couldn't let Ichigo say nasty things about him.
"I'm sorry... I know I don't have the right to tell you what to do. I'm very sorry I didn't mean to hurt you." Ichigo was still looking at Rukia. She was still avoiding his gaze and Ichigo thought that maybe she was still mad at him.
"Rukia... I'm really sorry."
"It's fine. I'm not mad. I'm so sorry Ichigo, I shouldn't have said that. I know you were just trying to keep me safe but please trust me. I know Renji and I know he won't hurt me." Rukia finally had the courage to look back at him. She couldn't resist Ichigo's voice when he was pleading.
"Alright, but promise me you'll tell me if he will hurt you or do something bad to you. Do you understand?" Ichigo arched his left eyebrow to show that he was serious.
Rukia smiled at him. At last she knew that Ichigo won't be rude to Renji again for the rest of the day.
"I promise that I will come to you if something goes wrong. You can count on that." And then she added,
"Thank you Ichigo."
It was 5 o'clock. The sky was getting darker by the minute. It has been a very long day for the two odd couples who were going around the mall doing all the things that came up to them. After watching a movie they decided to have lunch at a fast food restaurant. Then they went to a bowling alley where the two guys didn't get tired of competing with each other. They had a few bets where money was involved. At first Renji was winning, but then Ichigo showed everybody how great he was at bowling, Renji was dumbfounded. Ichigo was just letting him have a good start and he had beaten Renji at every single game they played. The two girls got bored at watching them showing off. And when Rukia noticed that the boys weren't planning on stopping, she decided to snap them out of their own world. They had ice cream after playing and Inoue was very glad with that. It turned out that she loves ice cream and it was her favorite dessert.
While having ice cream Rukia saw two little girls wearing bright colored skirts. They were twins and was wearing the same outfit. But what caught Rukia's eyes were the skates that the little girls were carrying. She figured that the girls were going skating and got too excited to try it out too. And that's how the four of them ended up at the back of the mall where the skating rink was located.
Everyone in the skating rink was obviously having fun. It has been a long time since Rukia went to a place like that. Ever since her parents died she couldn't skate anymore. She felt sad about it because skating was the sport that she really loves and she was pretty good with it. Her brother became very busy and had no time to take her and go skating. Whenever Byakuya would have time off from work, he would ask Rukia where she wanted to go,. But being the kind and considerate sister she was, she would tell her brother that she just wanted to stay at home and rest so that her brother could rest too.
"Rukia! Aren't you having fun? You're spacing out and was staring at the same place for quite a while now. Is something wrong? Are you okay?" Renji was beside Rukia with worried look on his face.
"Renji I'm fine. I'm really having fun today. It's so good to hang out with friends. You know, I don't usually do this. I like staying indoors and was always alone."
"Rukia, you're not alone. You just want to BE alone. I think it's time to be closer to others. By others I mean other girls. I don't want you to be closer to men or even boys."
Renji and Rukia were at the edge of the rink. They were skating side by side. When Renji saw Rukia alone and staring into nothing he went closer to her and talked to her. He took the opportunity to be alone with Rukia while Ichigo was teaching Inoue how to skate and was at the farthest end of the rink.
Rukia looked at Renji. She was getting more and more uncomfortable with Renji by the minute. He was making every move he could and was on the very edge of irritating Rukia. She decide that it was time to know what Renji expects to happen and what her true feelings are for him.
"Renji, why are you doing this?"
"what do you mean?" Renji asked Rukia.
"You know, this!" Rukia pointed at herself and Renji to emphasize that she's talking about them. "Why are you doing this? Do you really like me? I mean like me THAT much?"
"Rukia, skate with me? Let's also talk." Renji offered his hand to Rukia while she was starting to move away but she pretended that she didn't see it and continued skating. Although Renji was disappointed he ignored what happened and also pretended that nothing happened.
"Rukia, I know that it seems so sudden, me liking you and wants to asked you out on a date, but please believe me if I say that from the moment I laid eyes on you when I was in the hospital, I've liked you ever since then. And when I say "like" I don't mean it as a friend. I do like you and I am serious about it." Renji looked at Rukia intently and saw something in her eyes he couldn't quite distinguish.
"Renji, I'm really flattered and really happy that you feel something for me but..." Rukia looked away. She and Renji were still skating while talking to him and she had thought that it might be a good idea to tell Renji now that she couldn't possibly reciprocate his feelings. The earlier the better.
"but what? Do you have someone you like right now?" Renji was hurting, but because of pride he couldn't tell Rukia. He snapped his eyes at the orange haired boy who was holding Inoue a few feet away from them. Jealousy was written all over Renji's face when he looked at Ichigo and it didn't go unnoticed to Rukia.
"No! It's not that. I don't think I'm ready with another relationship right now. I just want to focus on my studies and with my brother. When we moved to Karakura, I promised myself that I won't think of anybody else aside from my brother. After all the things that he did for me, I think he deserves to be taken care of. And I can't do that if I'm thinking of another man aside from him. I want him to be the center of my life right now. Please understand that." Rukia did her best to prove to Renji that she was telling the truth well, half truth. She did want to take care of Byakuya first and foremost before having a boyfriend again and she did promise herself to be there for her brother but, she also promised herself that if she'll ever have someone special that person will be someone Byakuya likes.
Renji was not the kind of person that takes no for an answer. Although he understand her and he could feel that Rukia was indeed sincere with her words, he still won't let go of her that easily. He would wait. Sooner or later if Renji would do his best he will win over Rukia and they will be happy together. Just like what he wanted.
"I understand. But it doesn't mean that I will stop. I will wait and when the right time comes I will be beside you. I will always be right beside you to prove you that I will be the perfect guy for you. I won't interfere with your plans for your brother and I promise you I wont bother you everyday. So please, just let me like you and stay with you. Even as your friend, for now."
Ideas were running out from Rukia's head. She didn't know what to say and she definitely didn't have an answer to Renji's question. If she let him do what he wants there would be no guarantees that he will really wait. One look at Renji and you'll know that he isn't the kind of person that has patience so she knew that sooner or later he will bother her again with his feelings. But if this is the best that she could get, then she would gladly take it. Anything, just to get Renji out of her hair for a while.
"Fine Renji. If you'll promise me that you'll patiently wait for my decision then I won't ignore you nor will I stop being your friend. I do want to be your friend. You seem like a great guy and I will appreciate it so much if nothing ever happen between us to jeopardize our relationship. So please, don't fail me." Rukia pronouced each word with clarity so Renji wouldn't misinterpret and misunderstand everything.
"I promise I won't let my feelings get in your way. Thank you Rukia." Renji inwardly smiled.
"Rrrrrriiiiinnnnnnggggg..."
Renji's phone made a loud sound that surprised Rukia and him a little bit. He took it out from his pocket and moved away from Rukia a little farther. He was talking for a few minutes before hanging up and went back to where Rukia was left.
"I'm sorry. I have to go now. I... I... I... Something important came up and I need to fix it." Renji was starting to sweat and Rukia didn't like it that he was trying to lie to her. 'So much for the liking thing. We're not yet even a couple and he's starting to be dishonest.'
"Is something wrong? Did someone got hurt?"
"No, no one's got hurt. I'm just needed right now and I really do have to leave you. Will you be okay if i leave you with the orange bastard and his busty girlfriend?" Sarcasm is one of the many things that Renji couldn't help.
"their names are Ichigo and Inoue, and yes I'll be fine. Don't worry about me. You just go. I will tell them you left. Anyway it's dark already so I need to go back home too. I would stop by a store first and then head back home. You go. No need to say goodbye to Ichigo and Inoue."
"Che! Like I was planning to. Thanks! I'll see you at school! Bye!" Renji started running fast and didn't bother waiting for Rukia's goodbye. He took off his skates outside the rink and toss them over the rental counter. He ran back to the mall and turned right and then disappeared.
Through the crowd Rukia swept her eyes looking for Inoue and ichigo. She needed to go home and if they wanted to stay she will just leave them alone. She found them at the edge of the rink. Apparently, Inoue still couldn't figure out how to skates. Slowly she approached the two and cleared her throat.
Ichigo saw her first and he noticed that Renji was out of sight. He looked for him among the crowd but couldn't find any guy with red hair.
"If you're looking for Renji, he's gone. He left already and he looked like he was in a hurry so he didn't say goodbye to both of you."
"Oh! Was there any problem at all?" Inoue butted in.
"He said there's an emergency and he needs to leave early. Actually I also need to go. Byakuya might be home and I think I will be in heap of trouble if I stay longer."
"Okay. Sure let's go. Inoue do yo-"
"Oh my gosh! I totally forgot about the time! Tatsuki's gonna flip out! Oh no! I'll just call her. please wait for a minute Kuchiki." Inoue took out her phone and dialed Tatsuki's number. She talked fast and kept on apologizing at the person on the phone. It seemed like Tatsuki and her were supposed to meet at Inoue's apartment and sleep at her place. Inoue was having fun being with Ichigo so she has forgotten to go home early.
After hanging up she looked at Ichigo and Rukia and an apologetic look was on her face. "I'm very sorry. I need to go. Tatsuki's waiting for me and she's really pissed of."
"Alright let's go. We'll take you home first Inoue and then I'll send Rukia back home. That way I'll know that both of you will be safe." Ichigo looked at his watch and saw that it was really time to go back to their own places.
"Awwww... You're so sweet Ichigo. You're a true gentleman. That's why I'm so glad that you're mine!" Inoue was So bubbly and blushing at Ichigo.
Rukia didn't know whether to ignore it or comment on the two. In the end she decided that she didn't really need to do anything so she turned around and started walking towards the exit and when Ichigo saw her he dragged Inoue to follow her. They took off their skates and went back home together.
"I'll see you tomorrow?"
"No I don't think so. I'm tired and I just want to stay at home for the mean time." Ichigo was leaning on Inoue's door. They've reached her apartment just in time before Tatsuki got mad and now, she was inside and making herself at home. Just before Ichigo left, Inoue asked him if he wanted to go out again tomorrow. Just the two of them.
"I'm sorry. Let's take a rest first. I'm pretty sure you're also tired right now, aren't you?"
"I understand. But we'll go out next time right? Alone and no one else with us?" Inoue's eyes were very hopeful.
"Sure. Next time. Anyway I have to go now. I don't think it's polite making Rukia wait. Bye! I'll see you on Monday!" Ichigo started running even before Inoue bid goodbye. It made the girl a little bit sad but regain her composure after a minute. She knew that Ichigo was in a hurry so Inoue thought that it was excusable. Opening the door, she strode inside the apartment and made her way to her friend Tatsuki who was sitting on a couch watching tv.
"Rukia!"
"Ichigo!"
"I'm sorry if you waited for so long. I needed to make sure that Inoue was safe and sound inside. So... Should I take you home?"
"Actually I need to go to a store. I have to buy some fruits for Byakuya. I called him just now and I told him I will be late for a while. But you don't need to come with me. I can handle it myself."
"Rukia, it's almost 7 o'clock. It might be early for us but for others its the time to hurt anybody who passes by. I think it'll be better if you take me with you. Anyway my father's not expecting me until 9 o'clock."
"Are you sure? I don't want to bother you but, clearly that's what I'm doing now."
"Che! When will you ever listen to me? You're always so stubborn! You know that it's safer if I'll go with you and I'm offering it myself but still, you're refusing! You're so stubborn midget!"
Rukia's eyes flashed dangerously at Ichigo. She looked at him like she wanted to hurt him and that's exactly what she did. She kicked him right on his leg.
"Ouch! Why did you do that for?"
"You're seriously asking me that question? You're unbearable strawberry! I can't believe that we're actually friends! Ugh! How can Inoue tolerate your stupid behavior? Be honest with me. What potion did you make her drink?"
"Just because someone's in love with me doesn't mean that I only gave them love potion or whatever it is that's in your head! Maybe it's you that gave something to Abarai that made him head over heels in love with you in just one week of meeting him! You're so annoying Midget!" while holding his leg, another hit from Rukia came onto Ichigo. This time it was directed to the back of his head. It made Ichigo wince in pain and was glaring his amber eyes at Rukia.
"Again, STOP HITTING ME! Ugh! So annoying!"
"The first one was for accusing me about Renji! The second was for calling me by that STUPID NAME!"
"Well it's not my fault for saying the truth!" Ichigo continued on snapping at Rukia while teasing her with everything he could. They continued on doing that while walking to the store.
At the store Rukia was looking for some fruits to buy while Ichigo was scanning the magazines about cars and bikes. The stand was located by the cashier and was into reading when he saw something sparkled and it caught his eyes. He went near it and saw that it was a cellphone case with a white rabbit wearing a purple dress and a clip on its ear was on the front of it. He asked the cashier how much it was and paid for it. After taking it back he carefully put it in his pocket and was very cautious of crashing the thing. He then looked around the store for Rukia to see whether she was finished or not. Rukia was approaching the counter and ready to pay for everything. She had bought a lot of fruits for her brother like, mangoes, apples and strawberries. Ichigo went closer to help her and put all of them in the counter and pay for them.
"Wow! Your brother must be fond of fruits. You've bought a lot." Ichigo took out the mangoes one by one from the basket and put them all on the counter to be checked.
"Yes. He loves these kinds of fruits. But this one here..." Rukia took out the strawberries and held it high to show Ichigo. "These are for me. You remind me of strawberries too much that I'm craving for some strawberry milkshake. Hhhmmm... What a nice way to end the day." Rukia even licked her lips absentmindedly.
"Please, I know that your just doing that on purpose to insult me. Huh! It won't work this time. I don't care anymore on what you do." Ichigo rolled his eyes at her and took the plastics from the cashier while Rukia paid the woman.
The two then decided to walk to Rukia's house since it's only a couple of blocks away from the store. They were side by side and was very quiet. Just enjoying the night and the end of it. Rukia's thoughts were on Byakuya and what he would say when she gets back home when Ichigo suddenly spoke.
"So, did you have fun today? I'll understand if you'll tell me that it sucks. Yes, going to the mall and treating it as a tourist spot is actually lame but, I'm still hoping that maybe even for just a little bit it have made you happy or rather enjoy the whole day."
"Well... I did enjoy the whole day. Even if it was just the mall still, it was fun. I like it. Thank you Ichigo. You're so kind. You never get tired of me."
"Why would I get tired of you? You're one of the people I like hanging out with. You're fun to be with and I enjoy your company a lot. Stop saying stupid things. I should be the one thanking you. Thank you for choosing me to be your freaking tour guide."
The two continued talking but were not facing each other. Too embarrassed by the situation. Ichigo was looking on his left while Rukia's face was straight on the ground. They weren't stopping walking and they're getting nearer and nearer at Rukia's place.
"Uhm... About Renji. I respect that you and him are friends. I can't change that. I just want you to tell me if you have problems with him or if he's hurting you. Please don't hesitate to tell me."
"I Promise to tell you if anything bad happens. Happy Mr. Strawberry?"
Ichigo smiled at her. She still has plenty of jokes to go around and could lift up the mood surrounding them.
"Yes, I'm satisfied with that. So, are you planning on being Renji's girlfriend? That's what everybody was talking about. The new girl falls in love with the bad guy. You two are the highlight of the school. So does he have a chance on you?" A small pebble was on the ground directly at Ichigo's way and it reflected the light from the sky and lamps on the street. It picked his interest and he started kicking it over and over while walking.
Although Ichigo wasn't showing his eyes to Rukia his voice was filled with hope and concern something that Rukia could sense. Her mind started racking everything that happened and thought that they all went well than she expected except from the fact that now Renji thought he could be her boyfriend one day and was hinting of something she couldn't quite figure out if she wouldn't answer him.
Rukia also thought of what was her real purpose of going out today with Ichigo, Inoue and Renji. It was to figure out her true feelings. She had thought about it this morning and has made up her mind.
She would tell Ichigo about her true feelings and she needed to do it before the two of them separate.
Sadness washed through her. What happens at the end of the day will depend on how Ichigo will handle the situation and she had a hunch that it will not favor her.
If she was going to reply to Ichigo's question she didn't want to sound like she's just pretending so Rukia stopped walking and held Ichigo's right hand to turn him to her.
Amber eyes were on her and they were holding Rukia's violet ones, curious of what she was doing but was not stopping her. She looked at him straight into his eyes and slowly she told him what was really in her mind.
"Will you promise me that you'll listen first before you speak?"
Ichigo nodded. Encouraging Rukia to continue. That he wouldn't stop her whatever she has to say.
Getting confidence from Ichigo's assurance, rukia continued talking. "I didn't really like the idea of Renji coming along. I was surprised when Inoue proposed to tag along with us. I didn't want to be the only one without a date so I asked Renji to come but in truth, it's so awkward for me. I like him but only as a friend. I did my best to get away from his grasp because I didn't want to give him hopes."
Rukia had let go of Ichigo's hand and looked away. Then she breathed in deeply to relax for a bit and continued.
"I think I'm starting to like someone else. But I don't really know if these feelings I have for him is serious or just one of those that disappears after a day. Maybe I'm mistaken or maybe I'm not but I don't really know. I'm so confuse right now and I can't decide on what to do. But..." Unable to go on and was having trouble to express what she wanted to tell Ichigo, Rukia turned around from him and looked at her feet.
"But what Rukia? Are you okay?" Slowly, Ichigo's hand started moving up to hold Rukia's shoulder but decided against it. He didn't want to give Rukia any reason to stop so he encourage her through his words. Whatever she wanted to tell him needed to be spoken. To get through with it already and take actions.
"Tell me Rukia and together we will settle this. I'll gladly help you throughout everything." somehow Ichigo has a clue on what she was talking about. He's afraid of what would be the outcome and what could happen to everyone who's involved. For now, he's only certain of one thing. Whatever Rukia's trying to say would hurt the two of them, especially Rukia. This was something he didn't anticipate.
Slowly, Rukia turned back again to Ichigo. She filled her lungs with air and in her mind it was time to say it. She looked intently in to his eyes and opened her mouth.
"I like you Ichigo."
To say that Ichigo was shocked was an understatement. He was expecting this but hearing the words in actual still surprised him. He couldn't speak and respond to Rukia so he kept his mouth shut. But his eyes were curious and were holding a lot of unsaid questions.
Rukia knew that Ichigo would be surprised but she didn't expect him not to say anything. She sensed that he didn't know how to tell her that whatever she's feeling for him wouldn't be returned. Rukia wasn't expecting Ichigo to tell her that he likes her but at least to tell her what he thinks of it. She expected his reaction but it hurt her as well. Even if he wasn't saying anything Rukia knew that he just couldn't say it on her face. He couldn't tell her that she's crazy for liking a guy who has the most beautiful girlfriend in school.
'How can he like me? Comparing me to Inoue wouldn't even help. Why am I feeling sad and lonely. I don't love him right? I said that I only like him. Like and love are very different with each other. But why am I feeling like a hole has been punched through my heart? I'm so stupid. I shouldn't have told Ichigo that. I have ruined everything on this one day. First was with Renji and now with ichigo. I'm so selfish. I didn't even consider what Ichigo will feel. I only thought of myself. I only thought about getting rid of what's bothering me. I'm so sorry Ichigo.'
In order to stop him in confusion she thought of a way to get out of the mess she created herself.
"I don't know when it started or how it happened, I just know that I have these funny feelings when I'm around you. I like it so much when we spend time together. More than when I'm with Renji."
Another deep breath was done by Rukia. "I know it isn't right so believe me if I say that I have no intention of hurting you or confusing you. Inoue's a nice girl and I don't want to hurt her. She's very lovely. Has a positive attitude, gets along pretty well with everyone and everybody thinks you two are the best couple there is. You two matches well with each other. I don't want to ruin her trust on me. To be mad at me for being stupid. Don't worry, I don't think that I'm in love with you yet so as early as possible I will stop this."
Sweeping her eyes around the area were they were stuck she noticed that only one block was remaining to her house. Rukia took the grocery bags from Ichigo and stared at him. She showed through her eyes how much it pained her to do what she has to do. Her right feet moved away backwards to were she's standing. One by one they were dragging her away from Ichigo. When she was a couple of steps away from him she stopped moving and smiled at him.
Rukia was slowly moving away from Ichigo. He has feeling that somehow this wasn't what he really wanted. His feet looked like they have their own mind and they took a step forward where Rukia was.
"Rukia..."
Rukia saw that Ichigo moved his lips and took a step towards her but she cut him off.
"Inoue's such a lucky girl. Do me a favor and please don't tell her what happened. I wouldn't be able to bare the look she'll throw at me if she'll ever find out. She's a very sweet girl and lively. I'm glad that I met the both of you and I don't regret even one minute of the time we're together. Even if that was just for a short time I'll treasure every moment."
For the last time, Rukia looked straight in to Ichigo's eyes. There were so many things expressed on them but she couldn't tell what they were. She gave him a full minute to say something but at the end of that one simple minute nothing was spoken. It was like Ichigo was stuck and couldn't move. Like she was talking to a tree and it was not talking back. She nodded to tell him that she understood why his actions were nonresponsive. Although a small part of Rukia wanted to scream at him and tell him to make her stop, she knew that it was hopeless. Their friendship has to end. Ichigo wouldn't stop her because for him, Rukia was just a friend and will stay as a friend. Just like what Renji was to her.
While looking at him, she smiled friendly and bowed low.
"Arigato Ichigo..."