Standard disclaimers apply to the fictional characters of BLEACH used in this story. They are the property of the esteemed Kubo Tite-sensei, and I have no claim over them. Please don't sue.
AN: For those who are unaware of what it means to share an umbrella from Chapter 8, please look up the term "ai ai gasa".
The trays on the cart rattled as she pushed it toward the kitchen. The food underneath the lids was mostly left untouched.
The Master left the house once more, meaning that the Mistress was filled with anxiety again. The Young Master also seemed to have lost his appetite. Katagiri could only persuade him to take a few bites before he dismissed her.
Frowning, she greeted the kitchen cook and an idea came to mind as she deposited the leftovers on the counter. "Are there any persimmons, cook?"
"I ordered a fresh crate during the weekend that I planned to back with." The cook recounted as he threw out the leftovers. He then added with a knowing tone, "You can take a few if you like. The Young Master prefers them to other fruits."
"Thank you," Katagiri replied. She selected two firmly ripe persimmons and washed them before she quartered the fruits. She set the plate next to the tea and made her way upstairs to his quarters. She knocked on the door and stepped in with his permission. The Young Master was partially dressed for bed. Several textbooks were laid out on top of his blankets.
"Katagiri, I thought I told you to retire," Ryuuken said with a hint of confusion. He slipped off his bed and walked over to the small table.
She smiled and moved to pour his tea. The plate of fruits was accompanied by a small dessert fork. "You did not eat very much, Young Master. I thought you would like something lighter instead."
He stared at the slices of persimmons and picked up the fork.
With lowered eyes, Kanae watched as he bit into a slice.
Once he finished chewing, Ryuuken murmured, "Thanks."
"It's my pleasure, Ryuuken-sama," she answered.
AN: Thank you AaviyanTage, Amulet Misty, niyahhill13, yukiiarooo, and DrkSpphrGT for your reviews.