A/N: No, I am not dead. I am still very much alive. Sadly, I have no other excuse for this chapter's extreme lateness besides my laziness and my never ending procrastination towards my studies. This is probably the main reason along with the fact that my original hand-written copies are scattered around my new apartment and the others have been lost due to the move itself. *Sigh* Life always works that way, doesn't it?

Oh well, crying over spilt milk won't solve anything... I'll just have to find a way to get the creative juices running again. Actually, I kind of owe this chapter to Nana. I watched anime and re-read the manga. Goddamn, the feels I got. I swear, I cry like a baby every time. I can only hope it'll one day get finished...

Anyways, here's a long overdue update. I hope it satisfies you all for the time being. And don't worry guys, Ichigo's not gonna win over Orihime that easily. I'm going to have him get a taste of his own medicine. (Yeah, I'm evil.)

Prompt: repercussions

Rating: T

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.

where she went

repercussions

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:

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Taking a nervous sip of her green tea, Orihime awaited Tatsuki's response to her story. They sat in one of the private back rooms of her best friend's recently established karate dojo while Tatsuki's students took a break from their training session. When Orihime had first arrived—a bit later than she intended—Tatsuki had barked at one her assistants to take over so she could enjoy the afternoon with her best friend.

After the formalities and mindless chit-chat, Orihime confessed to her dark haired friend what had happened with Ichigo. However, Tatsuki didn't swear viciously under her breath like Orihime anticipated. Instead, Tatsuki had tilted her head to the side and avidly listened to what Orihime had to say. And the only indication of any type of response was the furrow of eyebrows and a thoughtful scratch of the chin. Other than that, Tatsuki seemed impassive until the end.

Crossing her tones arms over her chest, Tatsuki muttered to herself. "Hmmm . . ."

Orihime gently placed her drink back onto the table and then tucked a strand of auburn hair behind her ear. Gaze lowered, she asked quietly, "So, what do you think Tatsuki?"

Tatsuki sighed deeply. "I'm not sure, Orihime. I can't tell you what to do because this is your life, not mine. And I'm happy you met Ulquiorra and I'm excited for your wedding, so a part of me wants to break Ichigo's face for butting in. But at the same time—" She rubbed her lips together thoughtfully, her brows etched together in a tight line. "At the same time, I want things to work out between you two. I was always rooting for you guys and a part of me still feels that way."

Orihime bit down on her lip. Nothing was worse than limbo. She was at a complete loss, unsure of what to do.

"Hey."

Orihime looked over to Tatsuki who gave her a reassuring smile—the kind that was so sure and determined one couldn't find any doubt in it. "I know things are really confusing and complicated but it will all work out in the end. Just do what makes you happy. For once, be selfish. You've earned it."

Blinking, Orihime gazed blankly at her. "W-What do you mean?"

"I mean, fight for your happiness," explained Tatsuki as though speaking to a child (which wasn't that big of a stretch to be perfectly honest). "If you want to be with Ulquiorra, don't let Ichigo get in the way. If you still love Ichigo, don't let him do everything on his own. Help him by giving him the chance."

Sparkling tears began forming at the edges of Orihime's wide eyes. Something was growing in her chest, expanding and breaking free. Old feelings that never went away were reawakening. They were genuine emotions that could never be smothered or destroyed. They slept in the ghostly parts of Orihime's heart, hoping for a second chance.

Orihime dropped her head into her hands, bent over like a wilted flower in a spring storm. "I'm horrible, Tatsuki. I love them both."

An unbearable pain followed as her heart ripped and headed in opposite directions. She had grown used to the ache of the unyielding feelings she harbored for Ichigo and was able to pretend they no longer existed. After a while, Orihime found it possible to fall in love and begin the process of moving on. Things were almost normal. They were almost great. Almost.

Tatsuki reached over and placed a strong hand on Orihime's shaking shoulder. "You're not horrible. Loving two men doesn't make you a bad person."

Orihime sucked in an unsteady breath, trying but failing to get a hold of herself. "But being unable to choose does."

Tatsuki stood up and then took a seat beside Orihime. Wrapping her arms around the girl, she murmured softly, "If they really care about you, they'll understand and give you time to figure things out. But honestly, I think it would best to work out your unresolved problems with Ichigo. If not, you'll always be wondering."

Leaning on Tatsuki for comfort, Orihime whispered, "What if things go wrong again?"

Patting Orihime's thick hair, Tatsuki replied, "Then it wasn't meant to be."

:

"Why?"

Ichigo rubbed the back of his tense neck, not sure how to explain himself. Words were never his specialty despite his fondness for reading and it was even worse when it involved describing how he felt. He inhaled sharply and then looked to a distressed Senna. "Do you really think things are fine with us?"

Her tawny eyes narrowed. "That's how relationships work, Ichigo. They're never perfect, you have to work on them."

He raised a brow. "But we shouldn't have to make things work. We shouldn't be trying all the time."

Hurt flashed across Senna's face as her slight frame slumped deeper into the leather couch she sat upon. Ichigo noted she looked a lot smaller than usual; Senna had always been an expert in appearing strong when she felt threatened but now her efforts were futile. "So that's it? After these two years you just suddenly want to call it quits? Did our time together mean nothing to you?"

"Senna," said Ichigo exasperated. "We tried, okay? I mean, don't you want more than this? More than a few nights together where we talk about work and act like we're not just using the other for company?" When Senna bowed her head, Ichigo sat down on the coffee table in front of her and touched her knee. "I'm sorry, Senna. I really am. I never wanted to hurt you."

"I always knew this would happen," murmured Senna. "I kept waiting for you get over her. I told myself I could make you forget about her but I was wrong, wasn't I?"

Ichigo leveled his gaze with Senna and nodded. He swallowed before confessing. "She's back."

Senna allowed the meaning to settle in, not quite sure of what to feel. Then a familiar spark took flame within her, bringing back her usual fierceness. "She wants you back," she accused. "You're breaking up with me to be with her."

Fear and jealously rushed through Senna's veins. They were sensations she detested to experience; they always left her feeling ugly. It had been a while since she got a taste of them. Their strongest form had been during high school when she shared the hallways with the auburn haired beauty.

The afternoon sunlight filtered through the empty classroom's tall windows, casting shadows in the corners where they curiously watched the two school girls exchange words. They were as different as could be, one curvy with vibrant hair and the other slight and mysteriously dark.

"We're together now, Inoue," stated Senna, feeling a rush of pleasure as she said the words. They were a declaration of victory and they tasted wonderful on her tongue. "And I'd appreciate it if you'd stay away from him."

Senna had expected Orihime to snap back or show some form of anger. It was obvious that she had strong feelings for Ichigo and it was clear he felt something for her as well. But Senna had captured his interest and would not allow Orihime to get in the way.

Orihime clasped her fidgeting hands together and then nodded once. Her gray eyes were filled with pain but despite that, she smiled prettily. "Of course."

It annoyed Senna; she couldn't properly enjoy the confrontation when Orihime continued to smile. In irritation, Senna opened her mouth to say more except Orihime beat her to it.

"Just please take care of Kurosaki-kun," said Orihime in the soft spoken voice of hers. "Keep him happy."

With that, Karakura High's princess rushed past a stunned Senna and silently slipped out.

Ichigo shook his head firmly. "No, Senna. She came back here to get married."

Senna stared at a disgruntled Ichigo. He was frowning profusely while his eyes seemed to be looking right past her. Rubbing her lips together, she repeated, "To get married . . . ?"

Frustration was evident on Ichigo's face. He straightened himself up and began pacing across the spacious living room. "She's only here for her wedding. The reason she's back is because she's in love with someone else."

Stiffly, Senna stood and went to the liquor cabinet. After rummaging through the small collection of wine, she found a bottle of scotch and poured herself a glass. It was rather funny how Senna thought she had beaten Orihime when in reality she was always the predetermined winner. Even when Orihime was gone from Japan, it always felt like Senna was competing with her ghost, with the precious memories Ichigo had saved of Orihime.

And now, Orihime had officially won.

The most ironic part of it all was that she didn't appear to want Ichigo anymore but she still got to have him for her own.

Laughing dryly at the whole ordeal, Senna took a hearty gulp of the beverage. Shaking her head in disbelief, she smirked at Ichigo. "And you're going to try to stop her, aren't you?"

Scowling, Ichigo said nothing.

Senna snorted and then proceed to finishing the remainder of her drink in a matter of seconds. "You're such a bastard, Ichigo."

Silently, Ichigo watched Senna grab her bag and coat. She slipped on the sleeves and buttoned it snugly around her petite body. Her hair bounced lively behind her as she headed to the door. Opening it, Senna cast him one more look of contempt. "I hope she breaks your heart."

:

Orihime curled closer to the source of warmth and buried her face into it. As she inhaled deeply, the cool scent of aqua cologne filled her nose. The fresh aroma began perking up her senses. After a few moments, Orihime languidly opened her eyes to find herself in bed with Ulquiorra who was observing her silently. Flushing under the intense gaze of his emerald eyes, she greeted him. "G-Good morning."

Ulquiorra reached over and buried a hand into her messy hair. "Good morning."

Orihime leaned into his touch as his fingers methodically massaged her scalp. Ulquiorra was actually affectionate in quiet ways: he'd hold her hand, bring her a cup of water before bed, play with the tips of her hair. And rare occasions, he's say something sweet but it was never direct; his compliments were almost like riddles. He'd tell her a certain dress looked nice on her or that he liked the smell of her newest perfume. Either way, Ulquiorra never failed to make Orihime smile bashfully.

After a few minutes, Orihime's attention flickered towards the digital clock on the nightstand. "Ulquiorra," she said, her eyes widening. "You're going to be late for work."

He kept quiet for a long moment before he admitted, "I'm not going in today."

Orihime blinked. "You're not?"

"I wanted a day for ourselves," explained Ulquiorra. When she continued to stare at him, he raised a brow. "Unless, you already have plans?"

Orihime jolted out of her daze and frantically shook her head. "N-No! I'm just surprised! You hardly miss work."

Shrugging, Ulquiorra sat up and got out of bed. Her reached into one of the dressers and pulled out a pair of drawstring pants to slip into for the meantime. "Get dressed. We can go out and have breakfast."

Grinning widely, Orihime picked up Ulquiorra's shirt off from the floor and threw it on. It barely managed to cover the bottom of her panties but she loved the smell of the material; it was uniquely Ulquiorra. "Hai~!"

Ulquiorra's eyes followed Orihime as she happily scampered into the walk-in closet. It was nice to share his penthouse with her; she brought in an energy that made it feel like home. The complex no longer seemed desolate and he was grateful for that. The distance between was gone and now he had someone to go home to. It was new to Ulquiorra but he didn't mind.

Head tilted to the side, Orihime skimmed through her side of the closet. A row of various dresses and outfits were lined up before her but she had difficulty choosing. After trying on a handful of clothes, Orihime settles on a creme colored button up and a deep burgundy skirt that reached the middle of her thighs. As she dug through her jewelry box for the gold earrings Ulquiorra bought for her last Christmas, the sound of his cell phone ringing echoed.

Orihime head him answer. She managed to only catch a few phrases: ". . . e-mail the file to me . . . I'll deal with it right now. Call Kuchiki's accountants to handle the exchanges while we still have time . . . ."

The one phrase that mattered to Orihime was the one she was used to hearing. The one that put his work above everything else. And she could hear it in his voice as he spoke to one of his assistants. There was purpose and certainty in his tone but Orihime could also hear the frustration from having to rely on others. Ulquiorra was someone who preferred doing things on his own.

Orihime heard him end the call and then dial someone else. He was networking, fixing whatever problem that just arose.

Sighing, Orihime put down the earrings. They were beautiful and expensive but they weren't worth much to her. The only reason she valued them was because Ulquiorra had gotten them for her. She had never been fond for materialistic things but she did want the chance to wear the gift in front of him as an act of appreciation. Slumping down to the floor, Orihime folded her legs under her and adjusted the ring on her finger.

"What are you doing?"

Orihime glanced up. Ulquiorra was gazing at her with confusion and slight irritation. "Why aren't you ready yet?"

"Your work," said Orihime, looking back down; she didn't want him to see her disappointment.

"What about it?"

"Don't you have to go?" asked Orihime. "I heard you on the phone and it sounded like they needed you—"

"Those imbeciles can deal with it themselves," said Ulquiorra. "I deserve at least one day with my fiancé."

Orihime couldn't help but smile at his words. Happiness began spreading from her chest but then something else followed. It was reprimanding and disapproving, a kind of sensation that left her uneasy. What had she been doing? Her weekend had been filled over worries regarding Ichigo when she already had someone to love. How could she betray the one person who cared for her so deeply?

When tears began streaming down Orihime's face, Ulquiorra mistook them for a sign of relief. He kneeled down beside her and wiped them away. "You're such an emotional woman. I told you we'd spend the day together, didn't I?"

"I know," whimpered Orihime, holding onto him. "I know. I'm sorry. I really am."

:

His head somewhat hurting from a mild hangover, Ichigo rolled out of bed and took some painkillers. He then proceeded to jump into the shower to get him fully awake. Ichigo had expected to feel some sort of pain or ache over the end of his and Senna's relationship. He kept waiting for something, anything, to hit him over it. And when he did, it turned out to be relief, followed by guilt. A two year relationship resulted in nothing, not even remorse.

But Ichigo hoped for the best for Senna. Even though she couldn't find love in him, he wanted her find it in another. He wanted her to find someone to love her in every way she deserved. He wanted her achieve her aspirations towards her journalism career.

Ichigo turned off the faucet and stepped out. He went ahead and got dressed before leaving his apartment. It was probably best to avoid staying in since Senna would want to gather her things without seeing his face. Some space would do them both good.

Outside on the street, Ichigo hailed a cab and headed downtown to meet Renji and Rukia for lunch. The chic restaurant Rukia had chosen had tables settled on a small front deck which Ichigo decided to sit at while he waited for them. Leaning back in his chair, he closed his eyes. But when he did, he saw compassionate gray eyes gazing back at him. His fingers twitched, remembering how her tiny hand felt surrounded by his.

Then Ichigo lurched forward as something that felt like a notebook or a folder hit him upside the head.

"Yo, carrot top," greeted Renji, taking a seat.

Rukia dusted off her folder (weapon of choice). "Hello Ichigo."

Ichigo rubbed the spot she smacked and sent her a scowl. "What the hell is the matter with you?"

Rukia rolled her eyes as she tucked away her folder into he briefcase. Then she motioned over the nearest waiter to take their orders, which included a bottle of wine for them all to share. When Renji gave her a questioning stare, Rukia waved it away. "I'm stressing out over here. My brother did not lecture you for twenty minutes about family duty and honor."

Ichigo moved aside so the waiter could set down his drink and utensils. "What has your brother moodier than usual?"

Rukia's eyes narrowed in reproach at the comment but quickly let it pass. When the bottle of wine appeared, she poured herself a glass and sipped it down. "One of our key investors suffered some serious losses and tried to cover it up. We lost big money and we didn't realize this until this morning."

Ichigo whistled. "That's a nice way to start off the day."

"Tell me about it," grumbled Rukia, starting on her second serving of wine. "Like, what the heck? Can't I get some rest? I just got back yesterday from Shanghai and now I have this to deal with. At the rate I'm going, I'll die before I'm married."

Ichigo smirked when he saw Renji squirm. The comment was most definitely meant for her long time co-worker and friend. Ichigo sometimes wondered what was holding Renji back from officially asking Rukia out. He understood her brother was intimidating but by now Byakuya had to have at least learned to tolerate Renji.

"Speaking of marriage," started Rukia, skillfully swirling the contents of her drink, "How's Orihime's going?"

Ichigo frowned. "It's not a marriage. It's an engagement."

"What's the difference?" asked Rukia, who was fully aware she was getting under Ichigo's skin and was enjoying every second of it. "They're practically synonymous."

Renji chuckled maliciously when Ichigo failed to come up with an appropriate explanation. "For Ichigo, the difference is that having a love affair with Orihime during her engagement doesn't sound that bad as opposed to her being married."

"Fuck you, Abarai."

"In your dreams, Kurosaki."

Due to her morning drunkness, Rukia broke out in an uncontrollable fit of giggles. Soon, her laughter grew loud and obnoxious which caused several other diners to send her angry looks. Simmering down, Rukia said, "So now you're trying to ruin Orihime's engagement? That's low, even for you Ichigo."

Ichigo grounded his teeth. "What am I supposed to do then? Stand by and let some bastard take her from me?"

"You're the bastard here," snappped Rukia. "She was never yours to begin with."

A tense silence fell upon the table. Rukia and Ichigo glared at each other, defiance and frustration in both of their expressions. Sensing that things were one more personal offense away from getting out of hand, Renji took away Rukia's wine. "I think you've had enough to drink."

Both of them ignored Renji.

"I don't give a shit about what anyone says," said Ichigo gruffly, remembering how Senna called him the same thing. "I just want to have a chance at a life with Orihime. If that means I'm bastard, then call me a bastard."

"What if she doesn't want you in her life?" challenged Rukia. Even though she knew Ichigo loved Orihime more than anything, she also knew Orihime had moved on and managed to fall in love again. This girl was nothing but kind to her during high school and she'd repay the favor in any way she could. "What if Orihime is happier without you?"

"I get it," growled Ichigo. "But I've already told her about my intentions. It took some persistence but she's given me the chance to earn back her friendship."

"And I think her friendship is the only thing you have a shot at getting," began Renji as he looked down the street. "Because there she goes looking pretty cozy with her fiancé."

Ichigo followed Renji's trail of sight and landed at adjacent upscale restaurant. Stepping out of the car was Ulquiorra. He then offered his hand to Orihime who gratefully accepted. Her entire demeanor radiated contentment, her smile was honest and there was a spring in her step. And the one thing that left Ichigo aching was the way Orihime looked at Ulquiorra. Those large eyes of hers gleamed adoration and love.

It hurt even more knowing she once looked at him that way.

:

Ulquiorra handed the waiter a nice payment to get a more private table. Keeping Orihime close, he escorted her and then helped her into her chair. Orihime sat across from him, skimming through the menu. Having a late breakfast didn't seem like much to most people but she cherished the thought put into it. Ulquiorra wasn't sentimental but Orihime was certain that he valued her; it was enough to have him miss work for her sake.

"I think you'd like the omelets here," said Ulquiorra off-handly as he flipped through the menu. "They're very American."

"You've been here before?"

He nodded once. "I had a brief lunch here with a client last week."

"Really? Was it with that Englishman you were telling me about on—"

Ulquiorra's cell phone went off, interrupting Orihime. Taking one look at it, Ulquiorra grimaced and then got up. "Excuse me, Orihime. I need to take this."

As Orihime watched him go, a waiter appeared. He politely asked her if she was ready to order but she shook her head. "Could you give me a few more minutes? I'm waiting for my fiancé to come back."

Looking somewhat dejected, the waiter nodded. "Of course. And if you'd like, you could sample some of our new dishes as you wait."

"Oh, that would be wonderful!"

The waiter brought Orihime some of the chef's newest creations. She got to taste his french toast bread pudding. It was sweet and covered with fresh strawberries and blueberries. But she didn't want to spoil her appetite while she awaited Ulquiorra so she ate only half. Orihime craned her neck to see if she could find him. Then she caught a glimpse of him as he strolled over to her.

Orihime brightened up. "Ulquiorra, you need to try this. It's delicious and not too sweet~!"

Ulquiorra touched her wrist. "Sorry, Hime. Aizen needs me to report to him. This mess with the Kuchiki Bank has gotten out of control."

"Oh." Orihime forced herself to smile. She'd support Ulquiorra no matter what. "Okay. I understand."

"Thanks," said Ulquiorra, pulling out his cell phone to make another call. He scrolled down the screen. "You can go ahead and eat without me. I'll leave my credit card with the cashier, so go ahead and order whatever you like."

Orihime stared after Ulquiorra's retreating back, a bittersweet sensation blooming in her chest. Then she glanced down at the plate of food before her, no longer hungry. Sighing, Orihime left a tip for the kind waiter and then went over to pay for her meal with her own money. Over and over again, she mentally reminded herself that Ulquiorra was only doing what he had to do. He was hardworking and took pride in his job. There was no reason for her to feel melancholy over the matter.

But she did wish he had kissed her before he left . . . .

On the sidewalk, Orihime dismissed the car Ulquiorra had waiting for her. Returning to an empty penthouse didn't appeal to her. She was better off wandering Tokyo and seeing the sights. Maybe she could call Nel or Rangiku to join her. They could go and visit Tokyo Tower or walk through Shinjuku Park.

"Orihime!"

The auburn haired woman broke from her thoughts and turned around to search for the origin of the voice. She scanned the area and then saw Rukia waving at her from a nearby restaurant. "Hi, Rukia!"

The petite woman smiled at Orihime and motioned her over. "Come and join us! I've missed you!"

"Hai~!" Orihime hurried. But she realized too late that Rukia wasn't alone. When she got closer, she saw Renji and then she saw Ichigo at Rukia's table. Orihime's feet stopped moving the second she reached them. Ichigo was watching her with heated eyes that sent a shiver down her spine. "Umm, are you sure it's okay for me to join you?" she asked Rukia. "I wouldn't want to bother you guys during your meal—"

"Nonsense," protested Rukia. "Here, sit beside me. It's been too long since I last saw you at the business meeting."

Hesitantly, Orihime headed to her friend's request. Folding her hands in her lap, she wondered what she should do. Ichigo's gaze felt heavy on her body, making her anxious. She nearly squeaked when Rukia handed over a glass of wine.

"So, Orihime, how's the wedding planning going?"

"Fine," answered Orihime as she took a tentative sip. "We're still waiting on the wedding planner."

Rukia pouted, her violet eyes twinkling. "That's too bad. But at least your love life is going well. Ichigo here was just telling me how he and Senna broke up yesterday."

Orihime suddenly coughed up the liquid. Clumsily, she grabbed a napkin and wiped her face. Her eyes brushed with Ichigo's as she got a hold of herself. "You two broke up?"

Ichigo nodded. "Yeah."

Orihime covered her mouth as another wave of guilt washed over her. This time, it was stronger than ever. Had she aided in the destruction of a relationship? "I-I'm so sorry, Kurosaki-kun."

The ends of his mouth turned down. He didn't want Orihime feeling bad. None of this was her fault. "There's no need for you to be. It had been heading in this direction for a long time."

Rukia patted Orihime's arm. "That's why we're all here drinking away our sorrows. For Ichigo's breakup, my stressful job and Renji's lack of balls."

"HEY."

Orihime stifled a giggled.

Rukia grinned widely at her. "Would you like to add to the list?"

Rubbing her lips together, Orihime contemplated on what to say. She peeked at Ichigo who had broken her heart years ago. Then she remembered of Ulquiorra leaving without a hint of reluctance. "How about being everyone's second choice?"

Rukia sent Ichigo a pointed look. "We got some list of problems, don't we?"