Disclaimer: I do not own bleach. Though I won't mind owning a lock of Toshiro's hair. **sigh**
A/N: Please review.
Chapter 6
Quiet Before the Storm
Hinamori was thrilled that they decided to eat somewhere else for lunch other than the usual shinigami dining hall. Not that the food there was bad, but it was a nice change of scenery. And being alone with Toshiro isn't a bad idea either.
Hitsugaya bought food from a restaurant in town and Hinamori prepared a picnic setting, under a giant tree on a secluded spot that overlooked the river. The same tree where they would use to meet while still in the Academy. They were now done eating and Hinamori is watching the sun's reflection dance on the river's surface.
"Remember, Shiro-chan, when Oba-saan would prepare a picnic basket for us on some days?" She recollected while she sat and ate her dessert; peach ice cream.
"It was her way of kicking us out in the afternoons for a few hours. So she can get some peaceful sleep." Hitsugaya said, and lazily smiled.
He was on his back, using an arm to prop his head up with his eyes closed. She laughed at the comment. It was the last thing he heard before drifting off for a nap...
Hinamori moved to watch him closer. While asleep and even missing his captain haori, he still looks daunting- -though traces of his youth still visible. She lightly touched his white silver brows, earning her that furrow to appear. She tried to smooth it out with her index and middle finger which worked, much to her surprise.
He looks so much more younger. His dark long lashes now more defined as the scowl disappeared, and his smooth flawless face devoid of any expression but the calm of sleep.
Hinamori traced the bridge of his perfect nose, then his lips... remembering how they felt on her own lips, her body... she blushed and stopped to look around making sure no one was close by. She gave him a peck on the lips, "I love you too Shiro-chan." I always have.
She cuddled herself in his free arm and joined him for an afternoon nap.
...
Hinamori was surprised at how late it was. It's already time for dinner!
She started cleaning up but not before concealing her reiatsu so he won't be disturbed.
"Hinamori...where-"
"Kiyahh! Don't scare me like that!"
"I woke up when your reiatsu suddenly disappeared. Baka." Running a hand through his hair as he groggily sat up.
She rolled her eyes and sighed. "Well it's good that you're up, it's already time for dinner. We have to go."
They headed towards the dining hall to get a light snack before calling it a night. And also Hinamori wanted to catch up with some of her friends.
She was completely unaware of the stares directed at them while she searched for Matsumoto. Though Hitsugaya noticed and was amused.
Rangiku was waving her hand up to join her table that consisted of Renji, Iba, Shuhei, Kira, and Captain Komamura.
"Taicho, Hina-chan! Over here!" There was an extra hint of excitement.
Hinamori was also glad to see the others and was just about to sit, when the interruption of four hell's butterflies had her remain standing up.
"An emergency captain meeting." Hitsugaya said as he let go of the butterfly that landed on his hand. "Fukutaichos, be ready and stand guard." He said as he left with the other captains in the dining hall.
"Hai, Hitsugaya-taicho!" a chorus that Hinamori didn't join in. She was about to go to her division, when Toshiro suddenly appeared in front of her.
"Oi Hinamori, can I have my haori back?" he asked with a smile.
How could I forget to take it off? Almost slapping a hand on her forehead.
She can hear other people giggling, huddling and whispering at the scene. Momo's cheeks were so red by the time Toshiro took it upon himself to remove the white robe off of her. And if that wasn't enough he reached out and intimately touched her cheek,
"I'll see you later...Momo." And with a smug smile, he disappeared.
She quickly proceeded to her division building, making sure to shut her ears off from Renji's remark. "Well, well! It's about damn time!"
...
"We're to leave tonight. Matsumoto and I, and the other selected few."
Hitsugaya broke the news while in her office, that his assistance is needed in the real world again due to some arrancar reiatsu floating about.
She was heartbroken but determined not to let it show, since it will just make him worry even more. This is going to be hard...
"For how long?" She asked.
"A month or more, it depends."
A month! Or longer? Mou...
"I'll see you later then, Toshiro." Hinamori gave him her best reassuring smile. She was still sitting in her desk and didn't want to move since it might give away her affectations. They were silent for a moment. Then she resumed signing her reports.
He's still here...
"Hinamori, I know I'm new at all this...but aren't you going to give me a hug or something?" He asked, annoyed.
She immediately felt foolish and flash-stepped to give him the hug. "Be back soon. In one piece...and please don't worry about me, it'll give you a headache." She whispered.
Baka Momo. Since when did I ever stop worrying about you?
He sighed as he embraced her tightly, and inhaling deep to imprint her scent as if he can bring it along with him.
"Please be careful...for me. And keep in touch." He placed the extra cell phone in her pocket. Toshiro kissed her softly, lips lingering to last the brief moment of time allowed. He kissed her forehead, then left.
...
Her nightmares are back to haunt her again. Waking up in the middle of the night, her chest heaving with tear less sobs... Hinamori was exhausted and highly irritated.
I have to depend on him just to get a good night's rest? This is pathetic.
Her knees were against her chest, hugging it tightly as the storm raged outside.
Shirochan...
...
Indiscernable to the sleeping town of Karakura, Toshiro was on a roof watching the stars. His face illuminated by the moon but not enough to light up that dark scowl on the taicho's face. It's been two weeks, and still no phone call from Momo. What is she doing that she can't spare a second to call or answer the fucking phone?
He took out the cell phone and dialed the number for the sixth time today. Still no answer.
About 4 hours ago...
The poor arrancar that he unleashed his frustrations on was faced with its quick unceremonious death.
"Taicho, you know Kurotsuchi-taicho wanted a sample of these Arrancars- -alive." Matsumoto pointed out.
"He could get it his damn self." Hitsugaya muttered. Not too fond of the said captain.
Besides, the 12th division's fukutaicho, Nemu, was one of the few selected to go in the real world. She can collect the damned samples.
...
It's been 14 days that Hinamori has not slept through a night. The lack of sleep gave rise to her frustrations, insecurities and irritability.
I don't need anyone just so I can function normally. I'm suppose to be strong. What is it with me and dependence? I do need Toshiro, but not to the point where I need him just so I can sleep! It's so unfair for him; to be there for all my needs. I feel like a damned parasite.
What's that sound? Oh yes, that cell phone that Toshiro left with her.
She hurriedly went to the closet and looked for it. A clap of thunder along with the howling of the wind had her grab the first thing her hands got a hold of - cell phone or not - and jumped under her covers. It was pure luck when what she unflipped was indeed a phone,
"Shirochan? " Her voice trembling.
"Who else would it be, baka. You're awake... Why do you sound like that?"
She cleared her throat. "It's two in the morning. How am I suppose to sound?"
"Why haven't you been calling Momo? What's the purpose of giving you that phone!"
"Why are you yelling at me?" In no mood to be scolded at.
He sighed, calming down. "Sorry, I was just under the impression that you were going to keep in touch."
"It's been so busy here that... I honestly forgot about this phone until now." It was silent for a long moment. They just listened to each other breathe. "I have to go now, Toshiro. It's going to be a long day today."
"...Goodnight Momo." Click.
What the hell just happened? As he raked both hands in his hair.
Momo never sounded so irritated. But maybe because I woke her up so late? Whatever it is, she seems to be doing fine. Stupid toshiro, getting all worked up.
...
There were five stacks of reports that needed to be done for the 10th division and six stacks for her own division. All were due at the end of the day. Knowing that the other squads were in the same predicament (since everybody has to help out when other squad members are assigned on missions so to help with the slack), Hinamori blew the bangs from her face and signed away.
The more reason why I don't want to be a captain. She mused.
Rumor has it that Hisagi, Renji, and Kira were the contenders. All three are highly qualified.
So why are they taking the time to fill the spots? Ugh.
The phone rang in her pocket, she ignored it as more interruptions persisted thoughout the day.
Hinamori finished everything by midnight.
Hopefully I'm exhausted enough to sleep.
And she did sleep through the night and the next night after that. She continued with the back breaking pace: trained with Kira in the mornings, trained with her division, and then doing reports to last her throughout the evenings.
...
Today Momo was trying to finish a stack of paperwork before lunchtime but a knock disrupted her concentration.
Bright-pink hair, an adorable smile and a bubbly attitude greeted her at the door. "Peachy-san! I have lunch and candy for you! Ano...Rukia-san bought me this book from the real world but Ken-chan said he was too busy to read it to me..." Yachiru pouted.
Hinamori smiled welcoming the reprieve. Who can refuse? And Hinamori adored the little girl.
"Come on in Yachiru-chan. What's the book's title?"
She's matured quite a bit since the ryoka incident. Her bright hair almost a foot past her shoulders, and she's almost as tall as her. Hinamori thinks she's quite dazzling.
The only high-seated officer who as of yet, not engaged in battle. Although her current predominating reiatsu already promising a formidable force in the future; if ever she has the need to draw out her sword. And despite her innocent facade, this pink-haired lieutenant shares the same rapt pursuit of bloodlust as her captain and father-figure, Zaraki Kenpachi.
"The little Mermaid. I've read it already, but it's not the same when you read it Peachy-San! Check out the illustrations..." Yachiru already sitting on the floor.
...
Hinamori finished reading the book, and she loved it! She was inspired by the fairytale. "Yachiru-chan, I have a great idea! Let's go cliff diving! Let's go and take a break. I know a perfect place!"
"Are you sure? Isn't it cold?" Yachiru hesitated.
"Tobiume will warm it up for us, and we might even see some mermaids..." maybe not, but the idea of diving deep into the sea was exciting enough.
"Then let's go Peachy-chan! Cliff diving with the mermaids! And I thought that today was going to be a boring day. I gotta tell Ken-chan where I'm going first, I'll meet you here in a bit."
Momo's inner child now stimulated; remembering how her and Shirochan would play make- believe games. Laughing at how he would always say they were ridiculous but would play along with her anyway.
Shirochan.
She reached for the phone in her pocket.
...
On a different time zone.
Toshiro was watching the Karakura sunset in his favorite spot- - a hidden overpass with an unobstructed view, when he felt the phone ring. Not a hollow detection; but a call. Could it be?
"Hinamori."
"Toshiro?"
"Thats Hitsugaya-taicho by the way."
"Ano...sorry I didn't call soon enough, but how are you?"
"I'm fine. What's going on, are you all right?"
"I'm great." She wouldn't tell me otherwise.
She laughed.
"What?"
"It just feels awkward talking through this thing not work-related. So when are you all coming back?" She asked, exuding nonchalance. Not that she was counting the days.
"Not sure maybe-" Toshiro was interrupted on Hinamori's end.
"Peachy-saan, let's go I'm ready! Heh? Who are you talking to?" Yachiru butted in.
"Hitsugaya-kun I'll have to call you back. Yachiru and I have to be somewher-" Momo tried to explain but a fit of giggles overtook her, and Toshiro could hear the phone being dropped on the floor.
"Is that Whitey-chan? Haa Peachy-chan! I heard he's your boyfriend now, ne?" As she attacked Hinamori, tickling her ribs..
"-stop! Yachiru-"
"Peachy-chan has a boyfriend, a boyfriend, and his name is Whitey-chan! Tell me or I won't stop!" Yachiru taunted.
"...Stop! No he's not, ok?" Hinamori panting from laughing too hard. Yachiru stopped the assault.
"Oh crap, the phone! See what you made me do? Shirochan? Are you still there?" The line was dead.
I'll call him back later but for now... "Let's go diving!" Already fastening Tobiume to her hip.
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A/N: Please review.
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Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.
A/N: Please review. I tend to find mistakes or I change a few things later on. Please be patient with me. Thank you.
Chapter 7
Jealousy's Bankai
"Tch." Hitsugaya ran a hand through his hair.
Do I have to announce it on top of Sokyoku Hill that we are together, Hinamori? Baka.
He glared at the setting sun as Momo's denial of their relationship bothered him...a lot. But the furrow between his brows slowly disappeared when an idea occurred. A sly smile replacing it.
Where's Matsumoto at when you need her?
...
The two girls standing side by side on the edge of the giant, rocky cliff; faced the wonderment of the view had to offer. Their hair fluttering against their faces as the gentle winds drifted by. Both their white undergarments soaked and clinging to their forms but feeling naught of the cold that the upcoming season implied. Not when one has a fire-type zanpakutou that can warm everything up, and not when their adrenalines are at a rush.
"Peachy- chan you go first this time, I want to see you hit the water." Yachiru prodded.
"Yoshi! Here goes!" Hinamori did a graceful front facing dive this time; different from the cannon ball earlier. She went deeper into the warm water and decided to linger in there a bit; opening her eyes. Marvelling at the sight before her. She looked up to see the silhouette of a school of fish swimming above her. The sun's rays peeking through the water made it possible to see clearly.
But then was interrupted when Yachiru went in breaking the water; her bright hair distinguishable against the bluegreen background. Hinamori decided to swim towards the girl and come up the surface.
"Yachiru-chan. Go look down there, it's beautiful!" Gasping for air.
The pink-haired girl dove underwater, and Momo joining in after her .
...
2 hours later...
They were now sitting down by the cliff's edge with their legs dangling.
"Thank you for bringing me here Peachy-chan... Peachy-chan?"
"Hmmmm...eh...what?" Her daydreaming interrupted.
"I said thank you for taking me here. I had so much fun!"
"You're welcome, but thank you for coming with me. Or else I wouldn't have the time to even think about a break from all that paperwork!" Hinamori sighed again reverting back to her daydreams.
"...Peachy-chan. You're thinking about him are you?"
She sighed again and blushed. "Hai. The ocean always reminds me...of his eyes." She finally admitted.
Yachiru snorted. "Why do you like him so much? He's too serious!"
Then she slapped on a poor imitation of Toshiro's facial expression and deep voice, "Oi I'm Hitsugaya-taicho, I'll freeze you to death. That's 'Hitsugaya-taicho' to you! And I'm always scowling cuz I'm a tensai and I can do whatever I want! "
...
Back in Karakura town...
"Hachoo!" Toshiro sneezed.
"Tch."
Where the hell is that Matsumoto at?
......
Hinamori's stomach hurt from laughing so hard.
"Ok stop! Ittai .. Ittai." She begged Yachiru.
Then after a while of sobering up she looked out the ocean again, "He's my best friend...he always looked so serious; giving off that icy facade. But he's the opposite. He feels so much but he just says so little...My Shiro-chan."
Yachiru rolled her eyes. "Whitey-chan and you should get married. Shinigami can marry you know."
"Eh...Yachiru? What do you know about marriage? I don't even know much about it and I'm much older than you. All that we know of were Kaien-dono and Kuchiki-taicho's. And it seems that it always end up in tragedy..." absorbed in her own musings now.
"Whatever. Where did I put my bag of candy?"
...
Momo's dream was of her swimming in waves of aquamarine waters that slowly turned blood red. And she was drowning in it. Choking with the thick blood and swallowing it as she gasped for air.
A hand reached out, and she looked at the face behind it. Aizen.
His other hand holding a severed head as it dripped with blood. She didn't have to look.
"He's dead, Hinamori-san..."
Her eyes opened wide to the dark as she slowly reverted back to reality. Her breathing now even. She felt around for the phone.
...
"What are you doing awake Momo? Are you all right?"
"I...I just wanted...to hear your voice."
"Where did you go with Yachiru today?" He asked with nonchalance. Though his heart warmed immensely from her confession.
"Ano...promise not to get mad Shirochan."
"It depends. Did you two murder someone?"
"No. We went cliff diving by where you and Hyourinmarou go to train."
"..."
"It was so much fun Shirouchan! When you get back we should go, you and I..." Toshiro was twirling the diamond ring in his index finger as he listened to Momo's plans to spend time together.
He couldn't wait to go home.
...
The morning sun barely rising when a group of shinigami appeared on top of Sokyoku Hill.
Their month-long mission was cut short by three days. Yoshi! No more restrictions of being in gigais in Soul Society; nor bounded by the reiatsu limiters. This is home.
Toshiro already planning to see Hinamori the second the senkaimon gate closed behind them. It's been a week since they last talked.
She's training today, sensing her faint reiatsu. It's somewhere far.
As if reading his mind, Matsumoto offered "Go on ahead Taicho, I'll see how the division is holding up. I'll let you know otherwise."
The thing with Matsumoto is that when it comes to her dear 'Hina-chan' she can be most reliable. If only she can apply the concept on everything else...
"Oi, you better not be drunk when I get back. Don't forget, we have a meeting with Yamamoto-Soutaicho at 1pm."
"Mou...Taaichoo! You can count on me you know."
His lips twitched and on a serious note, "Thank you Matsumoto, for all your help."
Smiling slyly. "I also know where they train. But I want to take tomorrow off in return before I tell you." The vein almost popped on the back of his head.
"Matsumoto!"
After agreeing to her conditions, Hitsugaya flash-stepped towards the training grounds deep within Rukongai forest where Momo's reiatsu is starting to feel distinct. And Kira's a well. He inwardly grimaced, his dark mood interrupted when he heard a loud boom. Clearly indicating one of her Hadou spells.
She's frustrated at something. Toshiro smiled as he headed towards where the sound came from.
About twenty minutes ago...
Wabisuke and Tobiume propped up side by side on a tree and their owners were both sitting down on the ground. Hinamori was clutching the front of her robe, exposing her full back to Kira who leaned over with his hands; healing the burns and bruises. She accidentally singed the bottom part of her hakama and her warajis during an earlier spar.
"I'm a mess." She was on the verge of tears. These sleepless nights were taking its toll.
Frustrated, she took off the half- hanging haircloth with her good arm; hurled it across and aimed a kidou fireball at it before it hit the ground. It was silent for awhile...
"You have a lot on your mind Hinamori-San?" Kira asked.
"Who doesn't around here? And that's not a valid excuse. This is just ridiculous. I mean look at me!" Her hair was undone, black smudges on her nose and chin. Half of her hakama was singed all the way up; her whole thigh exposed and she was barefoot.
Hinamori hissed biting her bottom lip. "Damn. That hurt..." Interrupting her wallow in self-pity.
"Sorry, you sort of dislocated your shoulder...and fractured this arm."
"Mou...stop apologizing Kira-kun. You're making me feel worse." She chuckled.
"Well, stop feeling sorry for yourself. It's contagious." He smiled. They were silent as Kira focused his attention on her shoulder.
A familiar reiatsu was suddenly discerned. He was about ten feet away. They both looked up. Kira immediately pulled her robe up to cover her shoulders and helped Hinamori stand up; hoisting her by the waist.
"Hitsugaya-kun! When did you get back?"
Her heart skipping a beat. He's back. He's finally back!
She almost ran to him until she saw the expression on his face. Until she felt the temperature drastically drop.
Kira bowed his head, "Hitsugaya tai-"
"Mind leaving us alone Kira?" Hitsugaya interrupted, a subtle request that hinted much more than Hinamori can comprehend.
Thoughts raced through her mind as she watched Kira disappear.
What did I do? Did something in the real world happen? Was it because of Kira? But He didn't do anything wrong!
He grabbed her bad arm. She inwardly flinched, and before she could say anything they were already in her office. He let her go. Her defenses now rising.
"What's your problem Toshiro?" They were glaring at each other.
"Why don't you have the decency to fasten your robe first?" He indicated at her dishevelled state. The front of her kosode fully open, exposing her cleavage and taught muscled stomach and navel. Hinamori awkwardly blushed and did as she was told.
Of all the years she had known him, this had to be the first time that Momo was a little scared of her childhood friend. Just a little.
"Let me explain-"
"So is this your meaning of Kira not holding back when you train?" The temperature was making her breath frost, and his spiritual pressure was so heavy that Hinamori was having a hard time breathing. But she had to stand her ground.
"What are you talking about Toshiro? My reiatsu went out of control..."
Hitsugaya couldn't look at her anymore as she continued with her explanation. He turned the other way lost in his dark thoughts.
She was practically naked! They are that comfortable around each other? No wonder Kira feels inclined to touch her anytime he feels like it!
"...today was just a bad day for me, I couldn't focus for the life of me. So my injuries were much worse. And I didn't want you to see the extent of my injuries, so I have Kira heal me everytime. He used to be from the 4th division and have extensive bakudo healing-"
"You realize you've never shut Kira out from your life. Why is that?" He didn't even look at her when he asked. It almost seemed like he was talking to himself.
"Toshiro...I thought we've been through this...what you and I have is diff-"
"Different. You're right." He chuckled, though without a hint of humour. He was losing it. His hands braced on the desk in front of him, head slightly down with his eyes closed. The scowl was getting dangerously prominent. The pounding blood in his head was deafening.
"I said I'm sorry Toshiro. I know it looked indecent but nothing happened."
"How do I know? What if I've never witnessed it...Tch." He can't even organized his thoughts anymore.
"Stop it! Nothing. Happened." She wanted to walk to him across the room, hold him and tell him she missed him. But his reiatsu was so overpowering that her tears wouldn't even come out.
He opened his eyes now and realized the desk he was leaning on. Aizen's.
Seeing Aizen's desk triggered something in Toshiro. The former taicho was all Hinamori could talk about back then. The worship in her eyes for that snake; the open adoration. Now she's openly defending Kira.
Meanwhile she feels the need to hide our relationship.
The temperature dropped even more. He felt Hyourinmarou holding him back.
"Was I really your first Hinamori?" He asked menacingly low.
"Excuse me?" She thought she didn't hear him right.
"I might have been your first Hinamori. But who really knows if you already had your seconds..."
The silence that followed was so tense that it melted the frost forming on the windows and furniture. Momo's reiatsu was now countering his.
"I see. So you've already made up your mind about me, tensai." She almost whispered.
He turned around now. Searching her face. Wary.
Fuck. That really came out did it? Yes. It sure as hell did, confirmed Hyourinmarou.
Shit. Where is my sense of control when I'm around her?
"Momo wait, I didn't mean that."
She slowly limped behind her desk and turned to look him in the eyes. He can almost visualize Tobiume glaring at him the same way.
"Now if you don't mind, please leave my office Hitsugaya-taicho."
"I didn't mean it-"
"Get. Out."
"Momo... " It was getting uncomfortably warm.
"Momo...please." I'm losing her again. I can't.
"Hadouno 63: ..." Hinamori chanted.
Oh Fuck.
"Raikouhou."
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A/N: Please review.
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Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach. I wanna own a Captain Histugaya T-shirt though. Size xxs please.
A/N: Kinda short but not short of angst. Please review.
Chapter 8
Reconstruction
Construction is well under way for that giant hole that can still be seen when one passes by the 5th division building. Even the gates
were left with the same impression so it wasn't hard to miss from the outside.
The damages' existence had to be explained- giving rise to the speculations that came about. The first rumor claims that Hinamori-fukutaicho was practicing a new high-level kidou in her office, and a fitting target so happens to be available: Aizen's old desk.
The other rumor was that an argument between Hitsugaya-taicho and the fukutaicho had taken place in the office. A lovers' quarrel so they say. The latter rumor was confirmed when it was said that the 10th division paid and offered their services to fix the damages. In addition, it was also confirmed that the two had broken up and had not been seen together for the past month ever since the incident. Much to Rangiku 's dismay.
Those were the fiery suppositions that gossippers fed on but was soon forgotten as fast as the hole was repaired.
She had her chin on her hand. Lips in an alluring pout while she watched her taicho reading through a long report.
How can he sit there for five hours straight without taking a break? His idea of a break is to get up to attend meetings. Bleh.
I'm getting a backache just watching him!
Her young Taicho looks like he's back to his old 'drown myself with work' phase. Mou...
She sighed.
"Would you get back to work if I ask you what's wrong Matsumoto?" He said not bothering to look up. Her loud sighs are starting to get annoying.
"Ohh nothing. Nothing is wrong."
"Then there shouldn't be a problem since you just took your second break 30 minutes ago."
"You haven't been getting any sleep again, Taicho. Those dark circles under your eyes are back."
"Get to work, Matsumoto." He warned.
And so she did. But an hour into it she decided to provoke more of a reaction from her taicho. He hasn't been paying any attention to her for the past month. What she usually gets is a gruff "Good morning, Matsumoto", and that'll be it for the rest of the day.
So today was different.
"You know, I saw Hina-chan the other day." She said, dripping with nonchalance.
No response, just the sound of his pen scribbling on paper. So she prodded on, "She chopped off her hair. It's almost as short as Soifon-taicho's... But you can't really tell because she always puts it in that bun."
Rangiku noticed one of his white eyebrow twitched. Satisfied, she said "My, my look at the time..."
That's enough for today. Just making sure you're not made out of stone, my dear Taicho.
...
Her legs were supporting her body as she dangled upside down on the largest branch of the tree. The wind fluttering the long blue ribbons securing her hair bun.
The world looks interesting this way...maybe it'll make more sense if it stayed like this. To me anyway.
Hinamori was so sure of everything until about four years ago. Accepted in the Shinigami Academy at her first try, graduated with high honors in good time, made great friends in the process, her best friend joining to become a shinigami as well, and then she became lieutenant of the 5th Division with a captain that she completely worshipped.
Everything was in its place. Until it turned upside down. Hinamori discovered that she was just being used. Used for the mere fact that she was naive.
Shirochan is right. I am an idiot.
She closed her eyes. Toshiro...
Momo thought he knew her better than anyone else. I guess not. The bastard thought I slept with Kira. The nerve!
The blood rushing down was starting to feel like her head will explode. So she swung herself up, flipped twice and agilely landed with her feet on the ground.
She leaned on the tree and watched the sun set. Clearing her mind before she gets too worked up, she huddled her shoulders as an almost-winter breeze swept past
Sigh...I have to work on my temper, it's been getting worse lately.
She felt him nearby. This was their tree after all; so it's no surprise that he should be here as well. It's got one of the best views Soul Society has to offer. Hinamori didn't look back as she flash-stepped away.
...
The last month had been hell. Hitsugaya really believed he would have been in better shape if he hadn't dodged Hinamori's lightning hadou.
He tried talking to her but to no avail. The second she sees him nearby (since he's tried hiding his reiatsu so he can at least see her before she disappear) she pretends like he doesn't exist or scurries away.
He saw her yesterday for a brief second, under that tree by the river. She had her back to him. She felt his
stare and half-turned; not even bothering to meet his eyes before she disappeared.
"Tch." Toshiro stopped writing, closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose. His fukutaicho was on her run to deliver important reports to other divisions at the moment. She's also been extra talkative lately, thanking the quiet.
He was about to grab his pen to resume writing when a knock was heard on his door. "Come in."
"Hitsugaya-taicho. Ukitake-taicho asked me to deliver this to you when he checked in on the 3rd division today." Kira said.
Toshiro gestured to have it placed on his desk. "Thank you, Kira."
Kira nodded and had his hand on the door knob when, "Kira-fukutaicho, I've been meaning to have a word with you."
Fucking hell. I knew it. Kira inwardly cursed. Here goes.
"I just need to make clear that if ever you inflict another injury on Hinamori-fukutaicho, that you will be dealing with me directly." Aquamarine eyes boring into blue.
I heard this before. Kira remembered. But this is different.
"What if she adamantly asked me to, sir?" Kira wanted to point out.
That caught Toshiro off guard. His brow slanted upward, his scowl getting dark. "Do you like to hurt her?" He asked menacingly low.
"No. Of course not, sir. But it's her wish. I have to adhere to what she wants or she wouldn't train with me."
Kira was surprised when he was suddenly slammed against a wall, the front of his robes bunched up in the captain's hands. And realizing how much taller Hinamori's 'Shirochan' has gotten for he had to slightly look up to meet the other man's eyes.
"Then don't." The room got cold.
"Hitsugaya-taicho. Let go." Kira shrugged him off, smoothing his wrinkled robe. In no mood to go against Hinamori's best friend who unfortunately happens to have Kira in his 'first to murder' list.
"That won't happen anymore."
"What won't happen?" Hitsugaya wanted clarified.
"Our training sessions have stopped. She goes off on her own now." Kira shrugged.
"Oh. Well, that is all Kira." Hitsugaya walked back to his desk and sat back down already picking up his pen.
With his back facing the captain Kira wanted to add,
"For the record, I have stopped pursuing Hinamori-san. I know you two are deeply...involved." It was silent for a minute.
Knowing Hinamori couldn't have said anything. "And how did you know that?" Toshiro was now very curious.
Kira bowed his head and somberly smiled.
"You know, you walk around telling people not to hurt Hinamori-san... but I saw that deep mark on her shoulder that last day we trained. It only oozed of your reiatsu."
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A/N: Please Review.
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Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach. But I want my fanfic to come true.
A/N: Very short chapter.
Chapter 9
Still Under Reconstruction
Hinamori woke up from her nightmare. Heart pounding, knuckles white from clutching the blanket around her. It seemed so real... like the rest of them.
But she can still feel a presence in the dark. She sat up, "Am I still dreaming?"
She gasped as a shadow loomed over her.
She's still in the nigtmare!
Momo screamed.
Hitsugaya clamped his hand over her mouth to stifle the bone-chilling sound. Hushed and holding her in an embrace.
"Shhhh...it's me Momo. You're awake. I'm here, it's going to be all right. See?" He reached for her bedside lamp.
They were both sitting on the bed, Hitsugaya holding her. It was heartbreaking to see her so frightened. "I'm so sorry I scared you."
How bad are these nightmares of hers?
Brushing the damp locks off her face and tucking it behind her ear. Her lashes spiked from the tears that streamed down her cheeks. Her amber eyes still wide and looked frantically around; trying to comprehend.
After a while they finally settled on him. He watched her as she came to realization. Her expression now reminded him of the night Aizen drove
her to accuse him of murder; in result she pointed Tobiume at him.
Momo's narrowed eyes making him slightly nervous.
This is not going to be easy.
"What are you doing here? Get out!" She yelled, gesturing to where he entered from. Toshiro placed his hand over her mouth again.
"Stop struggling Momo!" Trapping both her hands with his other hand.
Get. Out. She muffled then bit his hand when he didn't move.
"Ow! Baka Momo! Will you just hear me out?"
He clamped his hand harder over her mouth; his teal eyes boring into hers. He slowly let go when he remembered he had placed a barrier around her room.
"I'm going to scream!"
"Go ahead. No one will hear you." He dared.
She tried to untwist her hands so she can break the barrier.
"Hinamori. Please. Dont. I'll leave as soon as you hear me out."
She finally stopped struggling and he let her go. She sat and straightened up. Glowering.
It's been over a month since he was this close to her. Her sweet scent alone was driving him to distraction. Her hair...Baka Matsumoto, she didn't cut it!
"Well?" Her arms crossed over her chest.
"I'm trying to get my thoughts together. Hang on."
"That's new." His lips twitched at her retort. He looked at her now, serious.
"Hinamori."
"Yes. Hitsugaya-taicho." She mocked, sounding like the 12th division fukutaicho, Nemu.
He looked at her lips and smiled, humorless. "I really hate how that sounds when you say it, you know that?" He almost whispered.
She scowled and gave him a look that said Why do you think I use it, genius?
"Look, I am sorry. I had no excuse to say those things, I lost control of my temper. It's just that seeing you and Kira that way...I didn't know what to think. I'm an idiot... I wanted to talk to you sooner but you wouldn't even let me be near you, Momo. I can't have you ignore me for the next three years again...a week was long enough."
She didn't say anything. "Hinamori?"
He touched her cheek but she flinched and looked away.
Am I too late?
"We need each other...I need you."
Hinamori stopped the tears that started to brim in her eyes and straightened up again to look at him.
"I don't want to need you anymore."
The cold impact of her words made his heart stop. His eyes searching her face for any hint of the truth; not wanting to believe what she just said. He looked into her eyes. She's trying to push me away.
Determination took a hold of him. Not again.
"I won't let you."
He crushed his mouth to her lips. She still struggled; closing her mouth shut and trying to force him away. But that made him even more insistent. He grabbed her hands in one of his and coaxed her lips open with his tongue. His other hand touching her face, her neck and slid down opening her yukata and gently caressing her breasts.
"Momo...please." As his lips travelled down and started to slowly lick her neck then her nipples.
Hinamori lost it. Her body becoming pliant to his hands and lips. She softly whimpered. He let go of her hands as she clung to him. He pulled away so fast to undress and flashed stepped back; capturing her mouth. Like she'll slip away if he wasn't quick enough.
Hinamori felt his body covering hers. She wriggled out of her remaining clothes, Toshiro helping her in the process. His wonderful familiar scent overtook her senses. Her hands gliding to his shoulders, his chest, his soft beautiful white hair.
Toshiro was desperate to feel her around him. He grabbed her thigh to wrap one of her legs around his hip, then thrusted hard and deep into her slick, moist center. He was shaking with need; burying his head in her shoulders.
They clung to each other for awhile. First their motions were hurried and furious. Then it slowed to a steady rhythm; attuned to the beating of their hearts.
Hitsugaya secured her arms over her head so he can see her face as they slowly made love. Her heavy-lidded brown eyes clouded with desire. He watched her panted breaths; watched her tilt her head back with pleasure; her moans and whimpers. His lips and other hand freely roamed over her beautiful body. She reached her peak for the third time, tears of sweet release sliding to her temples.
Momo's biting her bottom lip, still trying so hard to hold something back.
"Say you need me... I need to hear it."
Reeling with desire, she was so unsure of herself. She slowly shook her head. Breathless, as she said
"No."
Toshiro pulled away from inside of her. Frustration marring his face when he kissed her stubborn lips.
"Say it, Momo."
"Toshiro...don't do this...I can't." She whimpered. It was almost too painful.
The little hope he was holding on to flourished when she said his name.
"Say it! Damn it!" He groaned. Letting go of her arms now as his hands cradled her face.
"I need you... Toshiro."
And with that he returned inside of her, driving hard until he unleashed all his pent up frustrations; all his inner confinements for the past hellish month. His reiatsu enveloped them both in its soft blue glow.
Toshiro kissed her mouth then collapsed on top of her resting his head on her chest. Listening to the beating of her heart.
An hour had passed...
She's still angry.
Hinamori was now looking the other way, staring at a wall. From behind her Toshiro traced her silky porcelain shoulder but felt her clutch the sheets tighter to her chest; flinching at the contact. He got the hint.
He got off her bed and awkwardly dressed up. And as he was done fastening his katana behind his back, he looked at her while she still ignored him.
Knowing that it's going to be a one-sided conversation he said,
"If I have to apologize for what I did for the rest of our lives, so be it. And I am sorry, Momo. I am sorry for a lot of things."
He undid the bakudo barrier and walked towards the veranda. Then slightly turned his head back,
"Close your balcony doors if you don't want me here at night."
And with that, he left without a sound. Not even disturbing the sheer feather-light curtains.
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Hinamori was fuming. Mostly at herself for being so easily manipulated.
Baka momo. All he had to do was kiss you and you become butter!
She stomped towards her balcony doors and slammed it shut. Then slowly went back to bed.
She was too angry to notice that sleep overcame her. Embracing her in its most restful form.
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A/N: Please review.
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Disclaimer: I Do Not own Bleach.
A/N: Please Review. It's what gives me motivation to write :).
Chapter 10
Awakening
Hinamori woke up rested, looked at the clock and smiled. Glad that she has plenty of time to get to the fukutaicho's monthly meeting. She hugged a pillow to her face and inhaled.
It smells like Shiro-chan...
She gasped. He was here last night! Momo looked down at her naked body under the sheets. Then she touched her swollen lips while remembering what had transpired the night before. He came into her room last night without his captain haori. All barriers down (well, except for the one he placed around her room). He was...so handsome.
She blushed, highly embarassed at herself for being so easily manipulated by Toshiro. Sigh...I am so naive. Giving rise to her insecurities again, she made sure that the veranda doors were tightly shut.
Hinamori was in front of the mirror, trying to fix her hair when a knock was heard at the door. "Hang on, I'm on my way."
"Ohayo Hinamori-San!" Greeted Isane and Rangiku when she opened the door.
"Ohayo, Rangiku-San, Isane-san! Ready for the meeting?"
"Lets hurry up, since there's also a captain's meeting. We don't want to be caught up in the traffic, and these girls take a lot of space. They hate it when people bump into them." Rangiku indicated her chest, making Isane-san blush with the offhanded comment.
They did make it in good time. The topic was about division expenses; nothing to be excited about. Hinamori had to nudge Rangiku to wake up a couple times, and Renji once. Yachiru opening candy wrappers every once in a while was basically the most interesting sound in the room. There were a lot of stretching and yawning by the time Omaeda finished his report, and with Nanao's persistence of relevant questions also stopping- the meeting has finally come to an end. The taicho conference ended at about the same time. So the hallway became crowded, with lower seated shinigamis waiting outside for urgent messages to give to some of the taichos and fukutaichos.
"Let's go break fast Isane-san, Hina-chan. Oh wait, I have to look for my taicho- come with me for a second."
"Ano...I really have to get back, I'll see you later-" Momo said.
"Nonsense. It'll take but a second." As Rangiku immediately saw her captain heading their way; not easily missed with his short spiky white hair. Momo thanked Isane and Rangiku for both being tall while she cowardly stood behind them completely obstructed.
"Taaaaichooo!" She waved at him.
"Matsumoto." He acknowledged.
"Is it okay if I'm late coming from breakfast? Hina-chan, Isane-san and I have some catching up to do."
"I'll expect you before eleven." He acknowledged Isane with a nod and continued his way. Hinamori felt him sofly grazed his fingers over the back of her hand as he walked past them. Slightly turning his head to look at her. So subtle that no one noticed.
"Yoshi! Let's go girls." Rangiku already feeling guilt-free after getting permission from her taicho. She had a full agenda today consisting of a quick shopping trip, already forgetting that she had to be back before noon.
"Hinamori-san, You're as pink as Rangiku-sans scarf! Are you feeling okay?" Isane said, placing a hand over the smaller girl's forehead.
"It's pretty crowded in here. Where are we eating breakfast?" Hinamori quickly asked.
After they ate, Isane had to excuse herself. "But Isane-san I thought we were going shopping? It's the Ritto festival in 2 weeks. And we need something to wear!" Matsumoto whined.
"Ano Rangiku-san it's a workday today. Unohana-taicho will be expecting me. I'll go with you this weekend, I promise."
Seeing her friend's face had Hinamori putting her responsibilities aside, at least for just an hour. "I'll go with you Rangiku-san, but just for a little bit. And besides, didn't Shiro-chan ask you to be back 10 minutes ago?" She reminded.
"You will do that for me Hina-chan? Thank you!" Matsumoto beamed, and hearing Hinamori use the nickname for her taicho was endearing.
It's so beautiful. Momo has been staring at a fine white silk kimono with a black and a little hint of pink intricately woven obi. She didn't even bother to look at the price. Momo can't spend her money on such trivial things; there are other people in need. Most of her meager allowance go to Unohana-taicho's subdivision that's stationed in Rukongai. Their main purpose is to help the orphaned children of the town.
"Oi, Hina-chan you've been looking at that for quite sometime now. You need help trying to make up your mind?"
"Sigh...no Rangiku-san. Just imagining owning something that I can't have. Are you done now?" She smiled looking at her friend who had three bags on each arm.
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Matsumoto went straight to flop down on Hinamori's office couch. "Phew! I am beat! Can I hide this in your office? I don't want taicho knowing what I've been up to." she cheekily asked and placed her arms over the couch's back to rest her chin on. Looking around at the newly renovated office.
"Sure Rangiku-san. I'll order some tea." Momo said absentmindedly as she saw a lone white rose on her desk, without the usual fan note. It looked so perfect, like that first settling of snow; pristine and untouched. She picked it up and threw it in the trash basket, clearing the desk to get started on the stacks of paperwork.
"That could have been from him you know." Rangiku pointed out.
"Maybe, maybe not." Momo shrugged, as she looked through a report. It was silent for awhile.
"Hina-chan, don't you think it's time to forgive him? Oi, it's been over a month-"
"Rangiku-san, isn't your taicho expecting you back an hour ago?" Momo interjected feeling a little trapped. Matsumoto likes to beat around the bushes to get the truth out. So this was a little out of character for her.
"I don't know what he did to you to make you so mad-"
"He thought Kira-kun and I were...doing things we shouldn't be doing ok? So there." Hinamori blurted out, blushing.
"So...were you?"
"Rangiku-san!"
"Sorry, I just wanted to make sure I got it right. So he accused you wrongly-"
"You would think he would be the only person that knows me so well. But the words came out of his mouth anyway-"
"So you felt betrayed." Rangiku finished for her.
"Yes. My own best friend..."
"So what makes it different?" Rangiku asked.
"Huh? What does?"
"With you accusing him of murdering Aizen?"
The most awkward silence between Momo and Rangiku ensued. "My, my...look at the time!" As Rangiku stood up and tidied her robe.
Then she faced her dearest friend. Hinamori was so absorbed in her thoughts, she was still seated at her desk looking at her hands.
"Hina-chan look at me...please don't beat yourself up over this. I'm sorry I was a little harsh but the two of you have wasted enough time...I don't want you to end up like me. So many words left unsaid...But no, you two will be fine now ne?"
She took a deep breath leaned to kiss Momo on the forehead and left.
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Hinamori managed to finish all the paperwork, considering her mind wasn't all there.
It was past 10 pm when she was in her white yukata brushing her hair before going to bed. She was looking at the rose that was on her desk this morning; now propped up in a vase on her vanity - - still deeply lost in her thoughts.
She finally had the courage to walk to her balcony and opened it before going to bed.
And she waited...
Momo woke up warm, with her back against his chest. She's using his arm as a headrest and the other was wrapped around her waist.
"Shiro-chan." She whispered, loosening his hold so she can turn and face him.
She can see his face with the faint moonlight, he looks confused and relieved at the same time. "Shiro-chan. I'm so sorry." Was all she could say before she buried her head in his chest and softly cried out all her guilt.
"Shhhh...for what Momo?"
She slowly shook her head, not looking up and cried some more. "I'm sor...ry."
Toshiro just held her until she fell asleep. Confused at why she's sorry, but beyond relieved when she called him by his nickname.
At first he was unsure when he saw her balcony open. Maybe she just forgot to close it. Whatever the case may be, determination left him with no options. Hitsugaya was ready for Hinamori to kick him out the minute he landed in her room but was surprised to see her asleep instead.
He watched her face now against the moonlight. He wiped the tear streaks on her porcelain cheeks. Small sobs still escaped her even in sleep.
What is she beating herself up for?
Toshiro kissed her lips and held her close while he, too, fell asleep. Still a little wary of what's to come in the morning, but just glad he's allowed to be this close to Hinamori again.
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Momo woke up feeling drained...and alone. Great. She overslept.
She hurried not bothering to put her hair up and flash-stepped to her office. To find that most of her paperwork were already done. And the division training were well under way. I remember telling him not to meddle with my work. In one of their many discussions. Looking at the elegantly signed Hitsugaya T. on each finished report.
She noisily blew her bangs off her face and slouched on the chair. Exasperated, she really didn't want to be alone with her thoughts. But it was inevitable.
She remembered that morning when they first made love. All the words that were exchanged. He had done everything for me. Even forgave her for something so heinous! Forgave her the second she did it, meanwhile it took her a month to even give him a chance to say sorry. She was so guilt-stricken that all she could do was cry last night. I am pathetic.
No, you're not. Tobiume assured.
Thank you, Tobiume...but I still have to make it up to him somehow.
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Rangiku could feel the weight of his eyes on her, making her squirm in her seat. Then he'll just stop and resume writing. He looks like he's about to say something but then change his mind. Her taicho has been doing this all morning! I don't think he's doing this on purpose but it's starting to get annoying. There it is again!
"What, taicho?" Matsumoto now faced him.
"Did you say something to Hinamori yesterday?"
"Yes...but it shouldn't matter now."
"Not if she's beating herself up over it. What did you say?"
"It shouldn't matter! She's talking to you now, so be happy."
"I don't remember asking you to meddle Matsumoto-"
"Well someone had to! Or it would have been years and years of ignorance and depression!"
"Matsumoto, calm down you're making a scene, that's why I was reluctant to ask-"
"Then you shouldn't have! Leave it be."
"Not if she keeps saying sorry to me, when I am the one at fault. What did you say to her, is all I'm asking."
"Hmmm...here's an idea: ask her! Honestly taicho, for being a prodigy you're a complete idiot when it comes to these things." Now looking at her nails.
A vein on his head appeared.
"And you're just so ungrateful-" Matsumoto was interrupted.
"Ano...I can come back later." Hinamori had poked her head in but then was grabbed by Rangiku and shoved in the middle of the room, facing the captain, who was still seated behind his desk.
"Hina-chan perfect timing! Come in, because I was just about to leave. Ja ne!"
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A/N: Please review.