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.

-.-

"Katagiri!" The maid turned her head at the call.

She had little time to respond when she was suddenly backed against the laundry machine. Her eyes were wide open when she stared up at her master's agitated expression. She couldn't help but find the situation very similar to the one that happened a few months ago.

Before she could ask him anything, Ryuuken demanded, "Why are you avoiding me?"

Kanae blinked once and then looked to the side to avoid his piercing gaze. It seemed that she was found out. She said quietly, "I don't understand what you mean, Young Master."

She did not miss the way his eyes narrowed. He said to her firmly, "I know when you lie to me, Katagiri. Now explain yourself."

"I saw the Shinigami at the market yesterday afternoon," she responded passively. It was true, he knew almost everything there was about her, and she about him. There was no point in dodging the question when he personally called her out on the act. "He wishes to meet with you."

Ryuuken backed away by a step and she stood back steadily on her feet. He asked her, "When?"

"Tonight, at Urahara Shoten," she replied as she stared down at her feet.

They lapsed into silence as he reviewed the new information and she berated herself for doing as the Shinigami said. Eventually, he turned to walk out of the laundry room.

Katagiri couldn't help but ask, "Will you go, Ryuuken-sama?"

The Ishida paused and said, "Yes."

"I see," she murmured. Believing it to be the end of the conversation, she turned back around to take the washed laundry out of the machine.

"Katagiri, don't hide anything from me again," Ryuuekn told her without looking back.

Her hands lowered the shirt onto the cool surface of the machine. "I understand."

-.-

AN: When sick, write. In other words, don't do homework.

Thank you Amulet Misty for your review! I'm glad that you liked Isshin's appearance.