It took a while, but I finally finished chapter 2! Wow... over 8 THOUSAND words! I outdid myself! This made me TIRED. But I'm very proud of it. Hope you like it! Enjoy chapter 2!
"My name is Ichigo..." He said hesitantly. His stature was that of defensive. Was Rukia really having this kind of effect on this guy? I mean, c'mon. She was barely 5 foot, and he was looking at her like she was going to eat him. Rukia thought all of this was strange. In fact, she was begining to think it was all a dream, but she had him right where she wanted, so, she decided to not give up now.
"Okay, Ichigo," Rukia put emphasis on his name on purpose to sound displeased. It worked, for he took another step back. "Explain to me, if you will, why you have been stealing from my home for the past two days. I want an explanation now, or I'll have to take legal action!" Rukia said sternly. If this wasn't a serious situation, she would've laughed. She was starting to sound like Byakuya. Ichigo froze. He didn't move. He was too scared to talk. She wasn't going to believe him on why he took her things. "Well? I'm waiting..." Rukia crossed her arms. He could just run. That'll work, but she already has his name. Damnit all!
"I... I..." he stammered. Rukia narrowed her eyes at him. He gulped. "I... needed them..." he finally blurted out. Rukia nodded, not caring about what he just said.
"What do you mean you 'needed them'? Don't you have your own home?" Rukia asked. Ichigo's heart suddenly jerked. He lowered his head and looked away. Rukia's mood went from serious to soft. He didn't have a home? But why? This didn't make sense. This kid wasn't old enough to be on his own like this. It was sad. "You mean... you don't have a home?" Rukia repeated. Ichigo shook his head. Rukia's heart suddenly went soft. This explains everything. "Not even a family?" Rukia asked. He shook his head again.
"I'm alone... I don't have anyone..." Ichigo said quietly. Rukia's heart went out to him. To be out in the freezing cold like this. Having to steal to live. He was basically like a raccoon.
"You were the one who ate my garden, aren't you?" Rukia asked in a tender voice. Ichigo looked up to her with glossy brown eyes. He nodded slowly. "And ate the tuna?" Rukia asked, remembering the empty dish on the porch. Ichigo squinted slightly before nodding, remembering the gross fish. He hated tuna, but he was so hungry. He had to eat something. "You didn't have to steal, ya know. You could've just asked." Rukia explained, walking towards him. Ichigo's eyes widened and he jumped back in alarm. Rukia stopped walking and gasped. Ichigo seemed frightened of Rukia. She wasn't that mean. It was just an act!
"Hey, it's okay. I'm not going to hurt you." Rukia tried to reassure him, but it didn't seem to work. Ichigo took another step backwards. "I was only trying to seem tough because obviously I'm not very... intimidating with my size..." Rukia admitted, digging the front of her boot in the snow. Ichigo wasn't moving, however. He was still skeptical about her. "I promise, I'm a friend. Not a foe." Rukia held out her hand to make peace, but Ichigo gave her a questioning glance. "You can't trust me, Ichigo. My name is Rukia Kuchiki. My bark is worse than my bite. I promise, I won't hurt you." Rukia smiled slightly.
After a moment's hesitation, Ichigo stepped towards her slowly and shook her tiny hand. "Ichigo. Ichigo Kurosaki." Ichigo said quietly. Rukia smiled brightly.
"Nice to meet you, Ichigo. May I ask a question?" Rukia said politely. She has been for the past ten minutes. So, what the hell.
"S-sure..." Ichigo hesitated.
"Would you like to come back to the cabin with me?" Ichigo's eyes widened at her words. "It's awfully cold out here. I'm afraid I might get sick. Do you want to come back with me?" Rukia asked. Ichigo was taken aback by her offer. Was she really inviting him inside her home? After he stole from her and made her angry? What should he do? Should he decline and run while he still can? Or should he go with her? She just might feed him, but can he really trust her?
The wind suddenly blew through hard and pushed at the two young adults. Rukia doubled over at the sudden icy blow and braced herself against the cold. Ichigo saw how instantly feeble she became and felt sorry for her. She looked so tiny and helpless. Like a little rabbit. He couldn't hesitate any longer in this weather. He was pretty cold after all, and he could tell she wouldn't last much longer out here.
"Y-yes!" Ichigo agreed. Rukia looked up at him with surprise. Ichigo tensed up. This was all too strange for him. "I... I'll go with you." Ichigo tried to say bravely. Rukia smiled, thankful he was coming with her.
"Good. I'm freezing. Let's go back and start a fire shall we?" Rukia said, beginning to walk back. Ichigo still stood in place. He was still debating on going or running away right now.
'Run! Just run! Run and don't look back!' the female voice in his head was screaming. 'Run, Ichigo! Just run and don't stop!' Ichigo took a step forward and soon found himself following the short woman. 'Run, Ichigo! Just run! Run!' Ichigo shook away the voice in his head and prayed that he was doing the right thing.
'I'm sorry...' Ichigo thought to himself as the pit of his stomach churned in worry. He had a bad feeling about this. He didn't know what it was he felt was going to happen, but he just knew it was bad, and he was going to be stuck in the middle of it all.
When Rukia returned to the cabin, she quickly started a fire and got some clean clothes for Ichigo to wear. A sweater from Byakuya's dresser and a pair of Renji's sweatpants he left here by accident, which was frequent. She put his old clothes in the washer. They were covered in mud and were worn badly. She felt sympathy for Ichigo. Wherever he came from and whatever happened must've been really bad for him to be living like this.
While Rukia was doing Ichigo's laundry, Ichigo sat on the couch in front of the raging fireplace, shaking from his anxiety. He was beyond nervous. He was apprehensive of this woman and her home. He could tell by the clothes he was wearing that there was at least one other male in the house. Why could he possibly be like? What would his reaction be? The horrible possibilities raced through Ichigo's mind and made him dizzy. Why did he agree to come here in the first place? He had to get out of here. He had to escape.
Just as Ichigo was about to dart out the front door, Rukia came downstairs again and sighed. "Well, welcome to my home. Do you like it?" Rukia asked him. Ichigo swallowed hard before nodding briefly. "It's not my style, but I love how cozy it gets." Rukia said, sitting on the couch a couple of feet away from Ichigo. Ichigo was still nervous about this whole situation. He felt like an outsider. He was flat poor and living outside, while she had a roof over her head and... and a family...
"R-Rukia?" Ichigo spoke quietly. Rukia looked towards him. He shuffled around on the couch a little. He was feeling so intrusive. Why does she trust him? Why did she forgive him for what he's done?
"What is it, Ichigo?" Rukia asked. Ichigo looked to her with dreadful brown eyes.
"Why did you invite me here?" he asked. Rukia tilted her head at his question.
"Excuse me?" Rukia said, not quite understanding his question. Ichigo looked away again.
"I mean, I stole your food and took your firewood. So, why are you so nice to me after what I did?" he asked. Rukia pursed her lips together and thought.
"Well, I guess it's because I knew you needed the firewood and food. I understand that you're... alone. So, why get mad? I mean, if I had no other choice but to steal, I'd want someone to understand." Rukia explained as nicely as possible, but her words only made Ichigo feel terrible. He turned his head away and winced in shame. Rukia noticed and slightly panicked. "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you." She quickly apologized. Ichigo shook his head.
"No, it's all right... I've just never... learned to trust people like you..." Ichigo said, staring into the fire. Rukia tilted her head once again.
"What do you mean by 'people like me', Ichigo?" Rukia asked. Ichigo broke his stare from the fire and looked into Rukia's large raven eyes.
"I've just never... been treated the way you're treating me... it's odd and I don't find it comfortable. I've always been called a nuisance and a waste of space..." Ichigo's expression was that of hurt and fear. Rukia can sense his tension even though she was a few feet away. Her heart went out to him. She didn't know where he came from, why he was here, or what he went through, but she knew, she just knew she met him for a reason.
"You aren't a waste of space, Ichigo." Rukia said tenderly. Ichigo's eyes began to tremble. "People who say that are the waste of space. Being negative like that isn't going to help the world." Rukia hated negative people who made other people's lives a living hell just for their own entertainment. Like they have nothing else to do in their lives besides make people miserable and unhappy. It wasn't fair. It wasn't fair to those who don't deserve it.
"Ichigo?" Rukia whispered. Ichigo looked at her again, his eyes becoming red and puffy. Rukia swallowed back the emotional lump in her throat. "Where did you come from? And how did you get like this?" she asked. Ichigo's eyes widened as though he saw a ghost. He started to shiver and Rukia saw the veins in his hands pop out. His sudden mood change scared her.
He finally looked away and shook away his tears. "I don't want to talk about it!" Ichigo nearly yelled. Rukia gasped. Obviously whatever happened sent Ichigo into shock when he thought of it. After a few minutes, the boy finally settled down enough to start breathing normally again. "I... I really don't want to talk about it, Rukia..." Ichigo mumbled. Rukia nodded slowly. She wasn't going to force him to do something if he didn't want to.
"I understand, Ichigo..." Rukia answered. She could already tell this boy went through a lot. Between whatever happened and people treating him like an outcast, Ichigo has clearly suffered too much. Then a thought came to Rukia's mind.
'Maybe he can stay here... with me- us.' she thought. If it were up to her, she'd send him straight upstairs to make himself comfortable, but there was one obstacle in the way. 'Byakuya...' Rukia worried Byakuya would react... not too well when he sees Ichigo. She's decided. She's going to keep Ichigo here until he returns.
Almost three hours passed since Rukia invited Ichigo into her home. It was dead-silent. Ichigo was still recovering from his flashback. He still shivered at the thoughts racing through his mind. Everything was swimming through his head so fast he couldn't handle the feeling. He felt overwhelmed and sick. His shaking got so out of control that Rukia had wrapped a blanket around him, and he flinched heavily at the sudden touch. She only kept a warm smile on her face. A welcoming, caring, tender smile. One he hasn't seen in years. Though, everything seemed... not the way it should be to him. He couldn't explain it, but he was growing more and more anxious as the seconds ticked away.
"I thought you might have needed a blanket." she spoke quietly. He looked at her with a curious, confused look. "You were still shaking. I thought you were cold..." Rukia said. Ichigo clenched the blanket tightly in his hands. He sensed something he couldn't see. He was paranoid now. He looked around the room frantically, searching for whatever scared him. "Ichigo, you don't have to be scared." Rukia whispered. Ichigo ignored her and continued to stare aimlessly around the home with a terrified look. Rukia sighed. She felt like she wasn't going to break through this boy. If only she knew what he went through.
The sound of a car door slamming startled both of the young adults. Rukia automatically knew who it was. It was Byakuya, and possibly Renji and Yoruichi. She heard Ichigo gasp and noticed he was shaking like mad. She scooched closer to him to recieve a horrified look.
"Everything is okay, Ichigo. It's just my brother and a friend. They're very nice and accepting." Rukia explained. Ichigo only blinked at her. "Just relax, okay?" Rukia figured if Ichigo played it cool, he'd have a better chance of staying. All that was left was her brother.
The door opened and a freezing blast of cold air rushed into the room along with Byakuya and Yoruichi, both huddled into themselves against the cold. Byakuya shut the door and looked to his living room only to freeze in place. Yoruichi did the same, giving the ginger-haired male a wide-eyed look. Byakuya went into defensive mode when his eyes set on the new stranger in his home. Ichigo gulped and looked to Rukia helplessly. Rukia, however, kept a stern look.
"Rukia." Byakuya growled menacingly. Ichigo started to shiver again. "Who is this?" he asked, narrowing his eyes at Ichigo. Ichigo felt his heart starting to beat madly in his chest. Was this her brother? This long-haired, tall man with a threatening stature was her brother? Ichigo couldn't believe Rukia, small and dainty, was related to his man, who seemed aggressive and dangerous. "Rukia, answer me at once." he demanded after almost a minute of unwanted silence.
"This is Ichigo." Rukia stated calmly. Yoruichi glanced at the two on the couch, then back at Byakuya before making a beeline for the kitchen. She wasn't absolutely NO part of this. All she wanted right now was Kon, who was still M.I.A.
"Okay... please explain to me why he is in my here..." Byakuya growled, locking his baleful look with Rukia's eyes. Finding a random person in someone's home wasn't exactly inviting. Ichigo's eyes darted back and forth with the man and the tiny woman. "I don't remember allowing strangers in my house." Rukia hesitated. She could sense Ichigo was just as scared as her, if not even more.
"Brother, explaining this will take a while. Please, if you will, let's talk about this upstairs, please." Rukia pleaded. Byakuya went quiet and narrowed his eyes at Rukia. He then transitioned his glare at Ichigo. He froze. Looking at those dark orbs made Ichigo's heart skip a beat. After a minute of silence, Byakuya finally spoke.
"I will speak with you, Rukia." Byakuya agreed. Rukia's body finally relaxed. "If..."
"If?" Rukia repeated, feeling discouraged.
"IF he stays outside while we do." Byakuya said sternly. Rukia gave him a pleading look.
"But Byakuya, it's freezing outside." Rukia argued. Byakuya raised an eyebrow.
"Do you dare argue with me, Rukia?" Byakuya questioned her. Rukia flinched this time. She knew better than to try to argue with her older brother. She would always lose, and she knew it. She bowed her head and sighed.
"No, Byakuya. I'm sorry." Rukia gave in, defeated. Ichigo was afraid and amazed at the same time at Byakuya's authority. He could tell he dominated over Rukia. Did Rukia really expect this guy to like him? It was already clear he didn't!
Rukia turned to Ichigo with a look that clearly said 'I'm sorry' and sighed. "Ichigo," she started. Ichigo blinked at her. "If you will, may you please step outside?" she asked regretfully. Ichigo shivered before unwrapping the blanket around his sholders and standing up, making his way hastily to the door of the cabin. Rukia followed him, ignoring Byakuya's stare and stood outside in the freezing cold with Ichigo. Instantly, the frosty night air made them shiver.
"Okay, Ichigo. You stay put right here and don't move. I'll be back in a few minutes, okay?" Rukia's teeth chattered. Ichigo nodded slightly. The voice in the back of his head began screaming again. "Do you trust me?" she suddenly asked. Ichigo hesitated to answer. Did he trust her? Could he? Should he? He wasn't sure who to listen to. The voice in his head, his stomach, or... his heart. "Ichigo, I can't stay out here for long. Do you trust me?" She repeated. Ichigo reluctantly chose his heart and nodded. He nodded, ignoring the shrieking voice in the back of his brain. Rukia smiled brightly. "Oh, thank you, Ichigo! I promise you, you won't regret this!" Rukia then turned and headed back into her home. As soon as Ichigo saw Rukia walk up the stairs inside their home, he jumped off the porch and began running.
He ran. He ran as fast as his legs would take him, the voice screaming madly in the back of his head, making tears form in his eyes. 'Run, Ichigo! Run! Don't you dare look back!' it screamed. "I know!" he yelled at himself. 'Don't stop running! Just run and keep going! Don't stop! Don't stop!' it continued to scream endlessly. Ichigo was becoming frustrated with himself. "I know, just SHUT UP!" he yelled at the top of his lungs, wanting the voice to stop. 'Don't return! Don't ever look back! Just-' "JUST SHUT UP!" Ichigo roared before tripping on a rock and falling to his stomach hard and knocking the wind out of his body.
Ichigo coughed painfully as the the dull pain filled his abdomen. He heaved for air as his ability to breathe slowly returned to him. He wiped his eyes of his tears and dirt. He had to get up. He had to keep running. He had to get out of this place and never come back.
Just as Ichigo got back to his feet and started running again, a new voice came to his head. 'Do you trust me, Ichigo?' her sweet voice said. Ichigo's eyes went wide and he skidded to a halt. He panted heavily, his chest starting to hurt from running in the cold. "Rukia..." he muttered to himself. He was running from the girl who treated him like a person for the first time in almost a decade. What kind of person would Rukia think he was if he were to run away like this? Then another question popped in his head. What was he running from? Rukia wasn't a threat or danger to him. She was nice and understanding and... loving. She was all that he's been wanting since the incident, and now he was running from it.
"What the hell am I doing?" Ichigo said to himself, looking at his hands. They were trembling uncontrollably in the bitter cold. What was he doing here? She gave him warm clothes to wear and invited him in her home, and he's running away, and if she does succeed, he would be the biggest idiot in the world to deny it. He's been out on the streets for many years, longing for a home. He finally has the chance to get one, so why was he running?
"I've got to go back... I've got to go back." he said to himself, sprinting back to the cabin on his sore legs.
"What the hell were you thinking, Rukia!" Byakuya yelled at his sister, who was sitting on his bed, enduring his rage. "You could've been killed! How do you know this guy isn't some psycho idiot who wants to kill you? You don't know what you're getting yourself into! I can't believe how responsible you were in going off on your own in the middle of the woods like that, Rukia! That's something I expect from Renji!" Byakuya hasn't been this angry in a long time. He couldn't even remember the last time he got this mad at Rukia- at anyone. Rukia only bared his hollering. She just hoped Ichigo wouldn't hear him. "On top of that, he's the one who's been stealing from us, and you want him to live with us? Seriously, Rukia. I've never expected you, out of all the people I know to be so simple-minded!" Byakuya was in an outrage. His own anger was making him dizzy and he had to sit down at his desk. "Why on earth would you think of such a stupid idea, Rukia?" he growled.
"Because I trust him..." Rukia whispered after a long silence. Byakuya looked at her.
"Pardon me?" he said, flabbergasted. Rukia looked up to his eyes bravely.
"I trust him, Byakuya. In ways you obviously you cannot understand." she stated. Byakuya glared at her again.
"Ways I cannot understand? I understand he is a low-down thief with no dignity or consideration for others! That's what he is!" Byakuya argued.
"That isn't true!" Rukia snapped. "He needed to steal that food and the wood. He needed a fire to keep warm and the food to not die, Byakuya!" Rukia almost screamed. Byakuya shook his head. He was not seeing Ichigo as a good guy right now. In fact, he was suspicious. He didn't trust Ichigo. Especially around Rukia.
"I don't care, Rukia. He isn't staying here, and that's final." Byakuya crossed his arms. Rukia wasn't going to give up. She wasn't going to have him living outside like that again.
"Byakuya, tell me you wouldn't steal from someone if you were hungry or cold?" Rukia questioned him. Byakuya was silent. Of course not! He would never stoop to those levels for anything! He'd rather die proud than known for stealing. "Byakuya, he needs a home. I know you take me for a smart woman who is weary of people, but I trust this guy, Byakuya." Rukia stood up and approached him, keeping a steady gaze with his glare. "Byakuya, you know I don't trust anyone out of this house besides you, Renji, and Yoruichi, but I have this gut feeling that I can trust him. Please, give him a chance. Just one." Rukia pleaded. Byakuya only glared at her from his seat. How could she be so naive? So forgiving. He literally destroyed their crop for the next few months and stole their firewood, getting the rest of their supply wet. What did she see in him? He didn't get it. He didn't trust this kid. He could do possibly anything. He could rob them blind, destroy their home... or hurt Rukia.
"Rukia, I do not trust this kid." Byakuya said darkly. "He appeared out of fucking nowhere and you want to take him in like a lost puppy. He isn't Kon, Rukia. I refuse to let him in my house!" Byakuya yelled. Rukia's fists started to shake. She felt tears building up in her eyes. She hated when Byakuya yelled at her like that. He hasn't yelled at her like that in ages...
Swallowing hard, Rukia narrowed her eyes at her brother. "Don't yell at me like that, Byakuya... ever again." she said sternly. Byakuya gritted his teeth. He didn't like yelling at her, but he refused to allow this... this... tramp in his home! "Byakuya, do you not understand? He has no home. He can't stay in this weather." she said softly. Byakuya wasn't moved. He didn't care. He trusted no one. Not with his job as a detector and now a jail guard. That's where that kid belongs. In jail.
"Fine, then I'll get him arrested for theft and he can live in a cell for 6 months until the weather clears up." Byakuya said, standing up and walking towards the door. Rukia was shell-shocked. She's never seen her brother this defensive before.
"Byakuya!" Rukia yelled, running towards the door and slamming it on him before he could walk out. Byakuya narrowed his eyes at Rukia once again.
"Move, Rukia. Don't try to challenge me..." Byakuya growled. Rukia stood her ground. Not breaking their threatening gaze.
"Byakuya Kuchiki, I can't believe you. You let Yoruichi inside our home and you hate cats! You loathe them! You even said yourself that you wish the only cats that existed were wild cats that couldn't be tamed and pussy!" she screamed. Byakuya's eyes widened and his face turned red. "You trusted her! Why don't you trust him? I don't see the difference besides him stealing something because he was too scared to ask. He hasn't had very good people contact. Why can't you understand that... he needs me..." Rukia frowned and looked to the floor. The tears finally fell from her eyes and streamed down her face. Byakuya felt defeated. He hated seeing Rukia cry because of him. She did have a point though. She never trusted anyone except her closest friends, which were only two so far. Maybe she was right about him. Perhaps... he should give him a chance like he did Yoruichi.
Sighing loudly and rubbing his eyes, Byakuya fought with his inner-self before looking to Rukia. She was still looking away from him. He crouched down and pulled her chin up so she looked at him. Oh, how her tear-stained face made him sad. He sighed one more time before speaking.
"If you really, really, really trust this guy..." he started. Rukia looked at him with hopeful eyes. He hesitated, not wanting to say what he was going to. "Then, he can... s-stay..." he finished abruptly. Rukia smiled and threw her arms around the taller man.
"Oh, Byakuya! Thank you, thank you!" she cried happily. Byakuya hugged her back. He had a bad feeling about this, but he trusted Rukia with her decision, so he was holding her responsible for whatever happens.
"However, if he fucks up just once, Rukia, I'll be sure that he won't ever be able to steal a thing again and you will be in just as much trouble, young lady." Byakuya threatened. Rukia didn't care about his meaningless threats. He stood up and opened the door. "He sleeps in the room across from mine. I want to make sure I can hear him. Now, go get the rat." Byakuya growled before walking away. Rukia was so happy that Byakuya was going to let him stay. She knew she was doing the right thing, even if it did seem suspicious. Just like the library's oath says: You can't judge a book by its cover.
Rukia ran down the stairs and swung the front door open. She saw Ichigo, huddled in a ball on the porch steps. He peered over his shoulder and gave the short woman a frightened look. Smiling, Rukia ran over to him and knelt down at his level.
"You can stay!" she cheered. Ichigo's eyes went wide. He couldn't believe it. He really couldn't. Was this a joke? Some cruel, sick prank? He's had that happen to him before. He was once accepted into a older woman's home and her husband beat him up and threw him out the door. It scarred him so much. Mainly because he was only 11 when it happened. That's why he couldn't trust many people, and he still wasn't sure if he could trust Rukia. "Well, what're you still sitting out in the cold like this for? Let's go inside and get your room ready!" Rukia said before grabbing his hand and pulling him into the warm house.
"M-my room?" Ichigo questioned as he followed Rukia up the stairs of the cabin. She opened the door and pulled him inside. It was a normal-sized room. With a bed, a dresser, and a small desk by the door. It was quaint and Ichigo found it comfortable. He still felt like a stranger, though. He felt like he didn't deserve all of this.
"I'll bring your clothes in later. For now, just get comfortable." Rukia told him. Ichigo only looked at her with a bizarre expression. She was so... bubbly. He... kinda like it. "You can meet everyone tomorrow. I'll leave you alone to adjust. I'll be back in a few minutes." Rukia said before leaving his room. Ichigo only stood there in the middle of 'his room'. This was all so different. He couldn't fathom what was going on here. Was it the effects of that weird onion he ate before? Maybe it's a drug dream, but it was too real to be a dream. He knew it wasn't a dream. He was just so shocked at all of this. How everything took a sudden turn for... the better.
Not wanting to stand around like an idiot anymore, Ichigo walked over to the bed and sat down. His eyes widened at how soft the mattress was. "Woah..." Ichigo bounced slightly on the bed. "This is awesome... I've never felt a mattress this soft before." Ichigo said to himself. It's been a long time since he's slept in a bed. Much better than sleeping on a ice-cold hard ground.
Ichigo lied down and his body instantly relaxed. He sighed and rolled on his stomach. All his aches from the could seemed to vanish. 'Maybe... I can trust her... them...' Ichigo thought as his eyes began to droop. 'Maybe she is trustworthy... perhaps I can make an impression and do something to make up for what I've done... but what can I do? Hm...' Ichigo's thoughts became fuzzy and his eyes closed. His body was finally succoring to the feeling of fatigue.
"Hey, Ichigo, I-" Rukia stopped mid-sentence when she saw Ichigo laying on his stomach, in a deep sleep on his bed. She smiled sweetly and placed his now clean clothes on his desk. She turned out the light and left his door ajar. If she had closed it, Byakuya would have a fit. 'He looks so innocent when he sleeps. I know I can trust him.' Rukia said to herself before returning to her room. It was getting late and she was rather tired. Sleep sounded good right about now.
Downstairs, Byakuya paced around in the kitchen. He still felt off about this whole situation. There was something about this Ichigo character that he just didn't find right. Yoruichi watched him nervously pace around the room. She sat at the kitchen table, looking at him with worried eyes.
"I don't trust him, Yoruichi. I have a bad feeling about this." Byakuya said in panic. Yoruichi didn't keep her eyes off of him.
"Then, why did you allow him to stay?" Yoruichi asked, confused of the whole situation. Byakuya sighed.
"I don't know! Maybe because of Rukia, I don't know." I just... ugh!" Byakuya huffed. Yoruichi didn't know what to do. This didn't make sense to her. "I trust Rukia, I really do, but I don't know about him. I feel like there's another side of him. Something I don't know..." Byakuya stopped walking and looked out the window. It was getting late. It was almost ten o'clock and he could tell Yoruichi was tired. He was thankful she was sticking around for him. But he couldn't make her stay up like this.
"Byakuya, if you really want to know more about him, why don't you just... ya know, play detective." Yoruichi whispered. Byakuya's eyes snapped open. He turned to Yoruichi who seemed tense, but her eyes screamed the truth.
"Yoruichi... do you really mean what I think you mean?" Byakuya asked in shock. Closing her eyes, Yoruichi nodded. Byakuya couldn't believe what she just suggested. It was a great idea, but Byakuya wasn't sure if he could do it. At least, not again...
The next morning Ichigo woke up under the covers of his new bed. He shuffled around under the covers before yawning and stretching out, hearing his back crack. He hasn't slept this well in ages. He sighed heavily and realized everything that happened yesterday. His eyes bolted open and he shot upward in bed. His heart started racing as he remembered what went on yesterday. He looked around his room frantically in search for something he didn't even know what. Ichigo was just about to spring out of bed and run for the door when he caught a whiff of something irresistably good.
He sniffed the air again and his mouth began to water. 'What is that? It smells amazing.' Ichigo thought as he opened the door and cautiously made his way downstairs. There was a small fire in the fireplace and the fragrance was getting stronger as he made his way to the kitchen. Ichigo peered in the kitchen to see Rukia eating at the table. Whatever was on her plate smelled like heaven, and Ichigo's hunger grew.
Rukia sensed his presence and looked at him lurking in the doorway. "Good morning, Ichigo." she said with a smile. Ichigio supposed it was okay to enter and he walked over to a seat across from her. "Did you sleep okay?" Rukia asked, taking another bite of her food. She was eating an omlette she had made a few minutes ago. It contained small slices of ham, pepper, tomato, and a little bit of cheese. Ichigo was only focused on what she was eating. He barely even heard her speak. Rukia noticed he was swallowing the saliva that was threatening to flow over his lips. "Oh, I'm sorry. You must be hungry." Rukia apologized. Ichigo snapped out of his fantasy and looked to her in surprise.
"Uh, what?" he said, no realizing what she said. Rukia pushed her plate towards him and Ichigo stared at her in shock.
"It's okay, Ichigo. You can eat it." Rukia reassured him. Ichigo felt like a bother to her now. He really shouldn't have been staring at her food like that, but he couldn't help it. He was so hungry. He was hoping that she would've asked him first before giving it to him. "Ichigo, I said you can eat it. I shouldn't be eating that much anyway." Rukia told him. Ichigo swallowed hard before picking up the fork and digging into the eggs. Right when it touched his tounge, everything around him became invisible and he focused on the food. Rukia smiled as he wolfed down the meal. At least someone enjoyed her cooking.
After Ichigo finished he inhaled for air and looked to Rukia. "Thank you. A lot." Ichigo said. Rukia smiled brightly and stood up, taking the plate and putting it in the sink.
"If you're ever hungry, just ask Yoruichi. She'll happily cook something for you." Rukia said, turning on the water and washing the plate. Ichigo raised an eyebrow.
"Y-Yourichi?" Ichigo repeated. Rukia turned to him.
"Oh, I almost forgot. You'll meet everyone today. Don't worry. Everyone is very nice." Rukia said, turning off the water and placing the dish on a towl to dry. Ichigo shuffled in his seat slightly. He was still a little anxious in meeting Rukia's... "family". How were they going to react towards him? And that tall guy with the long black hair. He scared him. Terrified him actually.
A loud beeping sounded in the kitchen causing both of the adults to jump. It was Rukia's cellphone. She picked it up and answered it.
"Hello?" Rukia answered. Ichigo watched her talk as she smiled at whoever was on the other end. "That's great! I'll tell him! See you soon!" Rukia clicked her phone off and shoved it back in her pocket before smiling at Rukia.
"They're right down the street! C'mon, let's go into the living room!" Rukia said, grabbing Ichigo by his wrist and pulling him into the living room and pushing him down on the couch. He was shell shocked. He didn't know what to expect or how to act. Damnit! Why didn't he run when he had the chance!
"Everyone is eager to meet you. You're going to love them. They're really nice and kind. Just say hello." Rukia told him. Ichigo gave her a helpless look.
"B-but Rukia, I'm not really good around strangers." Ichigo managed to tell her. Rukia sat down next to him.
"It's okay, Ichigo. They're my family. My family, no matter who it is, will always be nice to my friends. And you're my friend, right Ichigo?" Rukia asked him. If it weren't for Ichigo's anxiety growing, Ichigo would've started crying. She was so kind to him. It was amazing how touching she was. He smiled slightly at her with glossy eyes before nodding.
"Yeah. I'm your friend, Rukia." he said. Rukia smiled.
"Good. I've been needing a good friend lately." Rukia admitted. Ichigo looked Rukia in her eyes, about to speak when the door opened and a cold breeze flew through the house.
"We're here!" Yoruichi chimed. She closed the door and sprang to the living room next to Rukia. She peered over her shoulder and looked at Ichigo. Ichigo was taken aback at the dark-skinned female. Long purple hair and shining golden eyes. Almost like a cat...
"So, this is him, huh? What's your name again? Itsyko?" Yoruichi raised an eyebrow, forgetting Ichigo's name. Ichgo shook his head.
"My name is Ichigo." Ichigo said courageously. Yoruichi smiled.
"Oh, Ichigo. I like that name. My name is Yoruichi Shihoin. And my friend Renji is-" Yoruichi froze when she realized Renji wasn't with her. Rukia noticed too and rasied an eyebrow.
"Where is Renji, Yoruichi?' Rukia asked. The purple-haired woman gave her an uneasy smile.
"Hehehe... well, munchkin, remember how I said I was visiting a friend yesterday?' Yourichi said nervously. Ichigo smiled.
'Munchkin? Hehehehe! That's cute...' Ichigo laughed to himself. Rukia have her friend a look.
"Yes... yes, I remember..." Rukia said suspiciously. Yoruichi stood up and backed away.
"Yeah, well, ya see she-"
"C'mon Renji! Yoruichi probably thought we abandoned her or something!" a new feminine voice yelled. Everyone jerked their looks to the door to see a young woman with chocolate-brown eyes and long, very long brown hair, at least down to her elbows, stood in the front doorway. She had her hands on her hips as she watched Renji finally come into the cabin and shut the door.
"I'm sorry, Allison. I got caught in my seat belt." Renji explained. Allison rolled her eyes.
"Sure ya did. I bet you were taking a last puff of that death stick you keep stored in your coat!" she yelled to him sarcastically.
"Hey, I'm a social smoker! I don't do that often!" Renji yelled back. Allison grinned widely.
"So you DO smoke! I knew it! And you blamed it on your 'brother'. Byakuya doesn't even have the same last name as you!" she yelled. Renji blushed the same shade as his hair. This chick was smarter than she looked.
"Yoruichi, who is this?" Rukia had sneaked over next to Yoruichi as Renji squabbled with the new girl. Yoruichi bent down to her level and whispered.
"Her name is Allison. The two kinda had an instant connection when I invited them to dinner last night. So, I hooked her up with Renji and they stuck together like glue." Yoruichi explained. Rukia nodded, not completely understanding the 'relationship' the two had.
"They argue like a married couple..." Rukia commented.
"Trust me, Allison does this just to get a laugh. It's contagious too! Last night she was nagging him about how he shouldn't put his elbows on the table!" Yoruichi laughed. Rukia worked up a smile. This was a good thing. Renji needed a good, steady relationship with someone. He needed someone to put him in check. It seems like Allison was doing a pretty good job at it. Ichigo didn't know what to make of the situation. He was baffled at the whole thing.
'Couples are supposed to act like that?' Ichigo thought as he watched the two playfully bicker. 'If that's the case, I don't want to date anybody...'
Allison and Renji ended up glaring at each other for a few minutes, nothing but silence and the uncomfortable tension of the two filling the room. After what seemed like an eternity, Allison broke out in giggles. She laughed so hard her face turned red and she threw her arms around Renji. Renji ended up smiling and hugging her back.
"You're so funny when you're flustered! I should do this more often!" Allison laughed. Renji hoped she didn't He never knew when she was and wasn't serious. So far, the first 12 times have been just for fun, so he was lucky. He'd hate to see what her REAL dark side was like...
"Okay, guys. Enough of that lovey dovey stuff. Meet Ichigo!" Yoruichi motioned towards the ginger with her hands. Ichigo flinched slightly when the two set their eyes on him. Allison blinked at Ichigo before in a flash, she as sitting in front of him, trying to get a closer look at him. Ichigo recoiled with a gasp as the girl was just inches away from his face.
"Hmm..." Allison narrowed her eyes at him. Ichigo's eyes on the other hand were as wide as plates. He looked to Rukia helplessly.
'Say hello!' Rukia mouthed. Ichigo looked back at Allison before gulping.
"H-hello..." Ichigo said shyly. Allison's eyebrows shot upward and she smiled brightly.
"He's so cute!" she squealed, hopping off the couch. Ichigo was still a little shaken by the girl's bubbly nature. It was scary. She bounded back to Renji's side. Renji wrapped and arm around her waist and looked at Ichigo. Ichigo only sat there uncomfortably. As Renji stared at him with judgmental eyes.
"Eh, he's okay..." Renji commented, which earned him a smack to the back of the head. "Hey! What was that for!" Renji yelled at Allison.
"Be nice!" she spat at him. Renji rolled his eyes. "You also forgot something..." she suddenly said. Renji raised an eyebrow to her. He did? What was it. Allison crossed her arms and gave him a look that screamed 'Don't tell me you forgot about me!'
"Oh!" Renji finally figured it out and cleared his throat.
"Everyone, this is Allison. Allison, this is Rukia and the new guy, Ichigo." Renji introduced her properly. Allison waved a hand hello with glee and smiled.
"Nice to meet you, Allison. I'm Rukia Kuchiki." Rukia held out her hand and Allison shook it like mad.
"Likewise!" Allison replied. Rukia took her hand away, making sure she can still feel it before looking to Ichigo. He was still sitting in place, not daring to move.
"This is Ichigo. He'll be staying with us." Rukia explained. Ichigo didn't know what to do besides nod. Renji instantly frowned.
"Woah, wait a minute," Renji interrupted. Rukia turned her head slightly. "Where will he be staying? You guys already have three rooms taken." he pointed out. Rukia smirked at him.
"He'll be staying in the room across from Byakuya's." she explained. Renji let out a whine.
"Ahhh, man! That was my room!" Renji complained. Yoruichi gave him a pathetic look.
"Hence the word: 'was', Renji." Yoruichi spat. Allison hit on the back of the head again.
"Why are you complaining? You have your own house, for crying out loud!" she yelled. Renji didn't even try to fight back. He just rolled his eyes and glared at the ground. Ichigo didn't know how to feel at this point. He just kept quiet and looked at Rukia.
"Well, it's almost noon, which means-"
"Lunch!" Allison piped up before Yoruichi could finish their sentence. The cat-lover nodded.
"That's right! Let's head to the kitchen and I'll start cooking." Yoruichi said before walking to the kitchen. Allison grabbed Renji's hand and towed him into the kitchen. Yoruichi laughed at the two as they began to squabble again. "Renji needs to learn that he can never win a fight with a girl. Especially Allison. Winning fights with her is like trying to catch a shark with a toothpick and a piece of thread." Yoruichi commented before walking into the kitchen. Ichigo still kept his place on the couch before Rukia walked over and sat down next to him.
"So, what do you think?' Rukia asked. Ichigo pondered for a moment at Rukia's family. He liked them. He really did. They seemed friendly and humorous. If anything, he needed a little laughter in his life.
"I like them... even if the brunette is a little hyper." he replied. Rukia giggled. She grabbed his hand tenderly and stood up with him.
"If it's one thing you don't want to miss, it's Yoruichi's cooking. She's an expert." Rukia said, leading him to the kitchen. Ichigo smiled. He hasn't smiled this much in a very long time. He had a feeling he was going to like his new... friends. He felt safe with Rukia around and he felt wanted. He was a little apprehensive about Renji, but once he saw his girlfriend put him in place, he realized he was nothing but a big puppy-dog. As for Rukia's brother... that's going to take some time.
Byakuya drove off the bridge that lead the way into the next town, miles away from his home. He hasn't seen this rundown city in a long time. At least a few years. He felt overwhelmed with the way this place is. He hasn't felt this intimidated since the one interrogation with a murderer. He ended up breaking down in a confession. It shocked Byakuya, but he was forced to show no emotion, and send him to the death row.
Byakuya turned into a large parking lot that was owned by a very tall building. He remembers this building. How can't he? It was the first building he worked at. It was a slow pace, but he worked his way up and had a great career for a few years. He smiled before opening his car door and stepping out. He made sure he locked his car by pressing the button three times. His car gave an unmistakable honk to signal that it was locked and Byakuya walked towards the swivel doors of the building.
Inside, Byakuya walked to the large reception desk. Sitting in a chair behind the high desk sat a woman with long black hair, her bangs hanging to the right side of her face, with glasses and light blue eyes.
"May I help you?" she asked, not looking from her paperwork. Byakuya cleared his throat loudly, causing the woman to gasp and drop her pen. She looked up with wide eyes and mouth agape. Byakuya kept his serious gaze steady with hers.
"Miss Nanao." he spoke deeply. "I wish to see my previous partner. I need to speak with him about something important." Byakuya explained. The woman swallowed hard before nodding like a fool.
"F-fourth floor, second hallway, eigth door down..." she stammered in fright. Byakuya nodded and started to walk towards the elevator at the corner of the ground floor.
"Thank you, Miss Nanao. It was always a pleasure working with you." Byakuya said before the doors closed and the elevator went up. Nanao was left shaking at the sight of the former investigator.
Byakuya made his way down the familiar hallway and reached the door he visited often during his days as an investigator. He gave two knocks, and then a hesitated third.
"Byakuya?" came the voice behind the door. Byakuya opened the door and looked at the man who was sitting at his desk with surprised eyes.
"Hello, Izuru." he said blankly. The blonde-haired male stood up and walked towards the taller man.
"Byakuya Kuchiki. It's been so long. What are you doing here?" Izuru asked. Byakuya sighed heavily before looking intently with his past partner.
"I need you to find a file of someone." he said. Izuru raised an eyebrow. "A file of a male of the name Ichigo."
Yoruichi placed the last plate of food on the table as everyone dug into their plates. Allison constantly stole from Renji's plate, but he didn't mind. Sharing with her was a regular thing now. His food, his clothes, his home, his BED. She hogged it last night and he ended up sleeping on the floor. He didn't say anything though. He was starting to get used to her, even if they've only been going out for a little under 24 hours.
"So, Ichigo. What's your favorite color?!" Allison suddenly asked as Ichigo was about to shove a fork-full of salad in his mouth. He froze, trying to think before it came to him.
"I suppose... red." he answered. Allison's eyes lit up.
"Really? What's your favorite food? Drink? Do you like music? What are your hobbies?" she asked frantically. Ichigo widened his eyes at her. Rukia giggled.
"Let him process what you're saying first, Allison." Yoruichi finally sat down at the table after working hard on their lunch, which consisted of many dishes including rice, cucumbers and eggs, salad, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Ichigo was thankful for the spread of food. It's been a long, long time since he's eaten this good. He finally swallowed his mouthful of food before answering Allison's questions.
"Well, I'll eat anything, really. I prefer soda and iced tea, I don't really have a favorite type of music and... I like swimming." Ichigo explained. Rukia was surprised. She didn't even think he had a personality besides shy and reserved. This was the side she's been waiting to see. She knew patience would pay off.
"So, Ichigo, what do you think of my cooking if you'll eat anything?" Yoruichi asked, biting her sandwich. Ichigo chuckled.
"It's awesome!" he answered, biting into his sandwich. Rukia laughed.
"Yoruichi is the best cook and baker I know. Nobody else I know can cook like her." Rukia's compliment sent Yoruichi's pride sky rocketing again.
"I second that notion!" Allison chimed through her sandwich.
"Me too." Renji agreed. Rukia looked to Renji all of a sudden.
"Oh, Renji, what did Allison mean when she said that Byakuya was your brother?" Rukia brought up their argument they had about an hour ago. Renji started to blush.
"Oh, well, uh... ya see, Allison doesn't like smoke, so I told her that... Byakuya was the smoker in my home." Renji explained. Allison hit him again, getting a displeased grunt from the man. Rukia and Yoruichi laughed.
"That's the biggest load of bullshit you've EVER made up, Renji!" Yoruichi laughed. She could barely breathe while Renji just cossed his arms and looked away. Ichigo didn't pay attention. He was too busy gulping down his rice.
"Oh, speaking of Byakuya, where is he. Yoruichi?" Rukia's question made Yoruichi stop laughing and her heart suddenly jerked.
'Shit...' she said to herself as she looked at Rukia, who was waiting for her answer.
"Well?" Rukia asked again. "Where is Byakuya, Yoruichi?"
Did you like it? Sorry it was so long! I hope you like your character! I tried to make her as bubbly, yet sweet and friendly as possible! Tell me if I need to improve on her! Anyway, chapter 3 may take a little bit. I still need to get the set up for it, AND I'm heading back to chapter 6 of After Party Wedding. The new ideas have been itching through my head this past week, and I think they've had enough punishment ;) Hope you like it! Stick around for more soon!