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.
-.-
"Did you forget your place, Katagiri?"
Katagiri set the laundry basket down on the floor and lifted the lid to the dryer.
"I thought we raised you better than that, Katagiri."
Kanae bit the inside of her cheek as she folded a shirt and dropped it into the basket.
"Is this how you repay us for taking you into our family?"
She pulled out another article of clothing and shook out the wrinkles with a little more force than needed.
"Maybe it is time you looked elsewhere."
Her fingers dug deeply into the material of the clothing to suppress the beginnings of her shoulders trembling.
"Katagiri."
She blinked back the tears. Her fingers clumsily smoothed out the shirt on the table. Was she already missing him so much that she was hearing things?
"Katagiri."
The maid jumped when a hand came down on her shoulder and the shirt crumpled onto the tabletop again. She whirled around only to see another maid.
"Katagiri-san, the Mistress is looking for you."
-.-
AN: Okay, I need a break. Running low on writing fuel.