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.
-.-
"I don't need you to worry about me anymore, Ryuuken."
"Do you think I will to let you randomly go with that Shinigami?"
"You need to let go! It's time! And if you wait any longer, you know we'll both regret it!"
"This isn't about regrets, Masaki! It's about the future of the Quincy!"
"… Is it really the only reason? Don't use the Quincy name as an excuse."
"Then stop believing in those fantasies of yours and face reality!"
"You are the one who is still living blindly! Enough is enough! I thought that you changed; I thought that you finally found your answer. But I guess not."
"You… don't know what you're talking about."
"Stop lying, Ryuuken. You'll only hurt those around you and yourself."
She should continue moving down the hall. If she lingered in the shadows any longer, she would be caught. But the sudden silence seduced her interest and stole her will to walk away. Her mind spun with various scenarios to fill in the pause of conversation, each one less assuring.
"You're being unfair to Kanae-chan and to me."
"Masaki-!"
The door knob clattered as the door flung open. Her hiding spot was washed away by the light.
"Kanae-chan?"
Startled, Katagiri looked up and her focus waned. Masaki looked at her with eyes wide in surprise, especially when Ryuuken came from right behind her. Her dark eyes flitted between the two pureblood Quincy.
The tray in her hands trembled slightly when Ryuuken stared down at her. "Katagiri."
Taking a shaky breath, she schooled her expression and stated, "I brought your tea, Young Master. But it seems you are busy, so I will return later."
She could feel them watching her carefully as she turned around and walked away from them.
"Wait, Kanae-chan!" Masaki called out urgently. "Ryuu-chan and I, we were just-!"
Kanae paused and looked back. "There is no need to explain, Masaki-sama. It is not my place to know."
-.-
AN: And another dramatic update—simply because I don't believe in too many happy chapters in succession.