Chapter 17: Amends
DISCLAIMER: Hey Kubo... if you let us fans run bleach for a day, you'd be surprised with the smut...
A certain busty auburn haired woman angrily slammed her apartment door open. She started to throw a mini tantrum as soon as she was precisely five feet in the room. She stomped her way to the couch and plopped herself on the leather thing in one fell swoop. She looked at her wrist watch to find that it was around midnight already. After a few moments of silence, the piano had begun to play.
Orihime closed her eyes as she listened to the beautiful melody being made from the fingertips of a very talented composer.
"Hey, Ulquiorra... What's this piece called?"
The piano stopped playing. "I haven't named it yet. Why are you so late woman?" a very monotonous voice replied before his footsteps could be heard.
She sighed as she stared at ceiling. "Don't use that tone with me. If it weren't for me, you would be back on the streets going home to some run down apartment. Your talent deserves better Ulquiorra."
A man around five foot six came walking towards her from the piano. He had black hair as dark as the midnight itself and extremely pale white skin. The only noteworthy thing about the robotic man was his striking emerald green eyes which seemed to pierce though everything. Including deceit and lies.
"And for that I thank you, but I never asked you to help me."
"Are you saying you want me to kick you out Ulquiorra?"
"Not at all. I appreciate this odd gesture of kindness." he replied sarcastically.
She only chuckled lightly as she looked at him. "So it's out of character for me to be kind?"
He nodded. "As a matter of fact, it is." he replied.
She only smiled. "Hey Ulquiorra, will you play that piece again? It's beautiful." she asked.
He sighed. "If you insist." was all he replied before he stopped walking midway. "You still didn't tell me why a woman such as yourself was out late."
She laughed. "Is the great Ulquiorra Schiffer actually worried about little old me?"
"I was curious as to whether I needed to call 911." he replied sarcastically.
"Now that sarcasm suits you best."
He shrugged as he walked back to where his piano was. After a moment, a sweet melody filled the room and Orihime closed her eyes softly. The only thing she liked about her roommate was how his fingers could make such beautiful pieces. How could an unfeeling man like him produce songs filled with emotion. It was incomprehensible or maybe Ulquiorra's music was his emotion.
Images flashed through her head along with a tear.
"There's no way a jock like you would go for me, I'm just a nerd you see."
"Yes, you're a hot nerd."
"Please stop lying."
"I'm not. I honestly think you're hot."
—!—
"I love you..."
"And I love you."
—!—
"You know, couples always have sex."
"I can't do that! We're still too young!"
"Then how do I know you love me?"
"..."
"Orihime?"
"Alright I'll do it."
—!—
"You can't do this to a person! You can't simply toss them aside like trash!"
"You heard her boys? She says I can't leave her after taking her virginity."
"It's bullshit man."
"What the hell's this slut yapping about?"
"See Orihime, welcome to reality. This is where we men here go with our hormones and fuck sluts like you. It was a good fuck by the way. Congratulations, you're a whore now."
"Come on boys, let's give this little slut a good fuck!"
—!—
"Orihime! Long time no see! You're a new actress now right?"
"Yeah, it's been a while huh."
"Say, you look pretty hot right now. You wanna hit a hotel or something?"
"Sure, why not?"
—!—
"This just in, upcoming actress Orihime Inoue was raped in a hotel by a thug from a local gang."
—!—
"What the fuck man! I didn't rape her! She agreed to have sex with me!"
"Shut your trap, why does she have bruises then?"
"Look, she insisted on going wild and having really rough sex!"
"A likely story! Off to jail with you."
I've ruined a lot of people already... Why don't I feel satisfied?
Suddenly the piano stopped playing along with a sudden screech coming from the piano bench being moved abruptly. Ulquiorra was staring at her with his usual straightforward piercing eyes. "Woman.. You're crying."
"I know."
"I'm not too fond of having women cry in front of me. Will you tell me why so that we can avoid this?" he asked as though he was doing a science project.
She chuckled lightly as she wiped her tears away. "You music just made me remember something regretful. Worrying is unbecoming of you Ulquiorra."
"I am not worrying. I am merely putting a stop to such an annoying scene."
"Now sarcasm suits you best Ulquiorra."
He paused for a while before going back to his piano. "Then I shall make a happier tune then." he replied.
She smiled. "Thank you Ulquiorra."
"It is not a problem... Orihime..."
There was no such time where Rukia woke up feeling this happy. She was ecstatic. She had never felt such euphoria before. She had a boyfriend whom she loved very much and he loved her back just as much. She officially dumped her ex-fiancé and ended things officially. She was going to be a lawyer again eventually and Momo was happy with Toshiro. There were no problems at all.
Rukia just wanted to lay next to Ichigo forever but then there was that trial later in the evening. How unfortunate, and there was work to be had. Not the her cafe sadly but her lawyer work. She needed to prep herself before heading to court. Rukia had all of the day to prepare.
Her handsome boyfriend had begun to stir awake.
"Good morning."
"What time is it this time?"
"It's just six am Ichigo."
He sighed into the crook of her neck giving Rukia goosebumps. "Scoot over will ya?"
She frowned. "Why?"
"I'm gonna keep you stuck here."
"Then no."
He laughed slightly in his usual gorgeous voice. "Thought so." he said jokingly as he wrapped his arm even tighter over her. "I just want to stay like this for a little while longer."
"I know what you mean." she replied as she hugged him back.
Breaking the silence, Rukia's phone rang. Rukia groaned angrily as she reached for her phone and pressed the damn thing against her ear. "Hello?"
"Rukia!"
"Momo... You dare wake me up in this ungodly hour?"
"I didn't wake you up. You're just pissed because I tore you away from your precious boyfriend."
"Oh shut up Momo... Why are you calling this early?"
She giggled through the phone. "Toshiro wanted me to tell you both to stop hugging and acting all lovey dovey. He wants you prepping for the trial."
Rukia was ready to crush the phone. "Alright alright... Bye Momo."
"Please don't crush this phone. It's my favorite."
"It's my phone..."
"Bye Rukia!"
Then the line went dead.
"That woman seems to enjoy pissing you off."
Rukia sighed as she placed the phone back. "Not as much as you though."
He shifted his body so that he was pinning her down. He leaned down and chuckled. "How very true, I just love pissing you off. You look pretty when you're mad."
She grinned. "Well I don't know how I feel about that..."
He smirked as he leaned down to kiss her. Sadly, Rukia dodged and rolled of the bed landing safely. She grabbed her crutches and everything else she needed to shower. She limped to the door leaving Ichigo in state of shock. She opened the door and smirked.
"Try harder Romeo." she taunted before leaving for the bathroom.
Ichigo plopped over laying flat on the bed and sighed. He grinned as he closed his eyes. He inhaled her heavenly sent. Her room was just full of the scent he loved so much.
"I am so whipped..."
Rukia simply sat with Ichigo downstairs. They had picked the chair nearest Kiyone. It was almost lunch so Momo wouldn't be here anytime soon. She had work to do. Rukia stood up and approached Kiyone. "Hey Kiyone, you can take your lunch break now." she informed.
Kiyone's eyes lit up. "Really? Alright, I'll be back in an hour!"
Kiyone grabbed her wallet and her coat and all before running out of the cafe. She flipped the sign closed and closed all the curtains before leaving for her lunch break. The good thing about having Rukia as a boss was the lengthy break time. Yes, Rukia was strict but she was the nicest one ever in Kiyone's opinion.
Rukia chuckled. "That girl is just so hyperactive."
"No kidding."
Rukia took her crutches and her coat as well. She grabbed her phone and her wallet as she approached the door. "I'm going to buy some lunch as well."
Ichigo was about to protest but then figured that they would just fight over nothing again. He decided against it and sat down again. "Take care." he said begrudgingly.
"Of course." she replied swiftly as she went into the busy snow covered street.
Ichigo stood up, stretched and had decided to sit in the middle table once he figured out that his spot was rather cramped. He sat down and tried to take a short nap while waiting for Rukia. A few minutes passed and the bell rang indicating that someone entered the cafe.
As he lifted his head he spoke. "Back so soon Rukia?"
Then he froze. Instead of seeing ebony black, he saw auburn. Long auburn hair along with that sadistic smile. She had been wearing a brown cashmere coat and a white turtleneck shirt along with an orange scarf. She stood there simply smiling at him.
"You... Why are you here? Rather, how did you find this place."
"Please..." she scoffed as she took a fewore steps towards him. "Everyone knows where it is Ichigo. It wasn't hard to find."
"Then why are you here?"
Orihime frowned. "Don't glare like that. I just need to use you for a sec. Forcibly..." she replied smugly as she was now standing next to him. She placed her hand on the table. "Tell me, how long has Ms. Kuchiki been gone?"
He glared at her. "Around ten minutes... What's it to you?"
"Oh, then she'd be back very soon."
Ichigo's fist clenched. "What do you want Orihime!"
She chuckled as he sadistic grin stayed intact. She had managed to straddle him on his chair and he wasn't able to escape. He could've simply thrown her off but that was troublesome and difficult. She grinned at him as she cupped his chin and forced him to look at her. "It's just too bad isn't it? I was never able to turn you on when millions of pubescent boys out there jack off to my image."
He looked at her in disgust. "You bitch..."
"I've heard that line before. Please tell me you have something new for me." she replied in such a bored fashion.
"I saw your girlfriend cross the street. I think it was that Italian restaurant I think. Since it's pretty near, she'd be back pretty soon." Orihime grinned as she still held a from grip on him.
"Go ahead, throw me off this chair in which I'm straddling you on." she tainted before pretending to be surprised. "Oh wait... You can't actually hit girls can't you?"
Right on time, as soon as the door opened, Orihime made sure to kiss him when Rukia Kuchiki was looking and Rukia was sure as hell looking. Rukia was utterly shocked. Orihime saw her shudder. She could tell her hand was shaking since the plastic bag she held made a few rattling sounds. Orihime found Rukia trying to speak.
"Orihime... Inoue? What. Are. You. Doing. Here..."
Orihime faked a scream. "Ichigo, you said this was alright! You said we could have some time to ourselves once she was gone!l
"W-wait... What!" Ichigo yelled back.
Rukia dropped the plastic bag as her head hung low. "Ichigo..."
She couldn't run. Why couldn't she run. So God was leaving her to stay here and deal with it? What the hell...
"Rukia... Please. You've gotta listen to me." Ichigo was practically begging as he tried to shake Orihime off. Due to the immense shaking, a few pictures fell out of Orihime's pocket and landed right in front of Rukia.
Rukia just stared at the pictures. Ichigo... Was doing this before? He was kissing me... And kissing her? He had been making me fall in love with him... And he was secretly with her? Was he lying to me?
She clung to the smallest bit of hope.
Rukia bit her lip as her fists clenched shut. She gave herself the signature Kuchiki pokerface. It was probably the coldest face ever conceived. She stared at Orihime. "So? You're saying this idiot knows how to cheat on people?"
"To put it rather bluntly why yes." Orihime replied as she dropped the act seeing as though it wasn't being effective anymore.
"Do you honestly think Ichigo is going to cheat on someone?"
"If his little girlfriend Senna could then so can he." Orihime replied.
Rukia could've laughed at the stupidity of it all. "That's funny... To my knowledge, Senna passed away due to cancer. I figured a smart person like would've figured out that there was something wrong with that elaborate story the media gave us. There was just way too many loopholes don't you think Ms. Inoue?"
"Cancer? I have no idea what you're talking about."
"Oh, you are rather brainless after all aren't you?" Rukia scoffed.
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me. I called you brainless but I'm guessing you couldn't have heard me since you lack the very thing that forces your ear to hear." Rukia spat before grinning sadistically.
"Do you honestly think you were going to shake me up? A former lawyer? I've seen more lies more believable than yours. Don't test me bitch." Rukia added smugly as she picked up the pictures from the ground. "And are you trying to invent December fool's day? People don't kiss with their eyes open. He was caught by surprise and you practically yanked his collar. It's rather evident here don't you think?"
Rukia tore the pictures apart. "Tell me Orihime. Is this how you ruin people? You must've picked the easy targets."
Rukia took a few steps forward. "Oh I know you're type. When you were still a young teenager, some handsome guy claims to love you. You fall for him only to find out that he was only using you for your body. Tragic isn't it?"
Rukia approached her and pulled her off Ichigo. She slapped her hard. "You're playing with Rukia Kuchiki here. Who do you think you are?"
Orihime growled as she slapped Rukia back. "You don't stop talking do you? So much for Kuchiki Princess, you're nothing like a princess!"
"That's true, I'm not a princess. I'll always be treated as dirt because that's where I came from. How about you Orihime Inoue, where do you come from?"
Orihime's face grew mad with rage. "What do you know? Have you ever been lied to! Used just for some sick purpose. Gang raped! I doubt that... I highly doubt that. I had to learn how this cruel twisted world worked! I learned manipulation and deceit just to get back at the people who caused me so much misery! You know absolutely nothing! You're life was practically a bed of roses."
Orihime made her way to the door and gripped the handle hard. "I've said too much..."
"By the way Ms. Inoue... Feel free to watch my comeback trial later this evening. I'll show you just exactly why I'm so different from you." then with that, Orihime exited the cafe in one big slam.
Ichigo was about to approach Rukia before Rukia fell to her knees and had begun to tear up. She was simply staring at the cold blank ground as she breathed slowly. "Ichigo..."
"Rukia? What's wrong! Are you hurt?"
"Oh shut up will you? For a second there, I really thought you betrayed me! I was gambling out there Ichigo and I made a split second decision and betted on you..."
"Rukia..."
"If Orihime didn't slip about Senna then I believe I would've officially had my heart broken again." she croaked as she couldn't stop her tears from leaking out.
Ichigo held her tightly. "I was scared Ichigo..."
"I just got you... I don't want to lose you already..." Rukia sobbed.
"Come on midget... Get up. Let's not waste your Italian food okay?
She nodded as she used Ichigo's extended hand to pull herself up.
Orihime walked out on the busy street angrily. Her eyes were furious as he fists were clenched together tightly. Her cheek still retained the red mark from Rukia. Why bother hiding yourself? Yeah, let the paparazzi laugh at the fallen Orihime Inoue. She literally shoved herself through the crowd. Was it just luck that she happen to live in the same apartment building as Ichigo Kurosaki without him noticing? Maybe it was because he was in tower B. The two buildings were interconnected but people only probably know the people on their side. She was lucky since the fire stayed in tower A.
She groaned angrily. Just a few more blocks, she thought.
She finally pushed through the doors which led to the main lobby. She quickly turned left at the fork and approached a set of fancy elevators. She clicked her floor and had to suffer the elevator music. Years and years of revenge was finally taking it's toll. She had exploited and had created scandals for men like him. Be it the people who ruined her life or other men who were simply the same with no hope for change.
She was innocent once. Orihime gripped her other arm and leaned against the cold steel of the elevator.
She was such a nerd in high school. And she hated her figure as well, it just attracted far too much attention. She was actually headed for valedictorian as well as a scholarship for not only Harvard and Yale but Juilliard as well. She had a talent for acting and she had set her goal on broadway rather than Hollywood.
One day, just a month from graduation. A jock made her fall in love with him. She really did love him with her whole being but it was probably one sided. He dated and her and stole her virginity. But that was really it. They were betting on who could get his cock in the "virgin mary". Bunch of assholes and man-whores they were.
When she confronted the guy, they simply raped her. No one saved her. No one had the conscience to stop. They sodomized her. And everything else was better left unmentioned. Yes, she was damaged goods. In fact, Ichigo was the one person who actually treated her right. What possessed her to do all this to him? Perhaps she was just simply jealous. How can people like him exist in the world? It was just unfair. She had wanted to break the couple, show them that fantasies only existed in fiction and never reality. She wanted to ruin Ichigo Kurosaki because she simply couldn't believe that someone as picture perfect as him could exist. It was just too unfathomable for people to exist without having to truly suffer.
Wait... What did she tell me again? Ah, yes. See my comeback trial, I'll show you just exactly why we're so different.
Interesting.
Orihime looked at the elevator ceiling. It hadn't even been a minute yet she felt like it had been an hour. Luckily, she was all alone. "Fuck..." she cursed silently.
"People like them shouldn't exist. They just can't. If their existence was justified then what the hell was I living for?" she cried out.
The doors slid opened and she slowly walked out. She rounded a curved and reached her door at the end of the hall. She brought out her frigid keys and unlocked the door. She opened the door revealing a melody of music playing behind it. She closed the door slowly a silently. She wasn't even a few feet from the door when the piano stopped and the man creating said lovely music came walking to her in his usual robotic unresponsiveness.
"Woman... Where did you go?"
She smiled sweetly. "Are you worried again Ulquiorra."
He closed his eyes. "You always tell me your destination. When you do not do so then it is only natural that I would be curious."
When he opened his eyes and had finally gotten a good look at her he just had to ask. "Have you been crying woman?"
She shook her head instantly. "Of course not. Why would I be?"
He stepped forward and leaned down to take a good look at her face. "You're eyes are red and there's still a tear right there." he replied.
She sighed as she quickly wiped the tear off. "Fine, I was crying. What's the problem there?"
"I mentioned how I find crying women a nuisance before. It is simply such an irritable sight." he replied back as he withdrew himself and placed his pale hands in his pocket.
This man was just so boring. Always some white shirt and black pants. Doesn't he have anything to else wear?
She stepped forward and leaned dangerously close to his face to see if she affected him. "Why don't you just admit that you don't want to see me cry Ulquiorra?"
He simply closed his eyes as a solution. "If you insist." he sighed before revealing his striking green eyes. "Tears do not suit you Orihime."
Orihime chuckled. "Maybe if you had a little more emotion then maybe... Perhaps I would've fallen in love with you. Too bad huh?"
"Me? Now that is a very odd thing to say woman." he replied.
Orihime wiped away the last of her tears before putting a fake smile. "Yes, in fact, I have no idea where that came from actually." she chuckled as she stepped back and went around him to get to her room leaving him just standing. He turned around and called her.
"Yes Ulquiorra?"
"You haven't eaten yet."
"I'll skip lunch."
"I've known you for months." he began.
He sighed as he approached her. "When a person with a monstrous appetite such as yourself says she's not hungry then something is definitely wrong." he said sarcastically. "Even if you claim to not have an appetite I will still shove the food down your throat woman."
Orihime blinked once before laughing. "Shove it down you say?"
"Yes, I'll shove it down your throat."
Orihime just turned around and headed back to her room. "Call me when it's ready." she said as she opened her door and closed it accordingly. She leaned against the door and slid down to the floor slowly.
Her face was heated and flushed.
"You do have emotions... Which is exactly why I've begun to fall for you..."
Why did I go so far only to realize that the only thing that could fill the void was so close to me?
Your music expresses how you feel... And it's warm and gentle.
I guess I do owe you an apology Rukia Kuchiki.
"Rukia, you're acting weird today. You didn't get mad at me for barging in and you didn't get mad when I started to whine again." Momo said as she crossed her arms. She sighed as she drank her lovely chamomile tea along with a tea inspired English scone.
Ichigo just looked at Momo as Rukia just perused the papers for the trial later in the evening. "Orihime Inoue happened."
Momo looked at Ichigo seriously. "I can imagine what happened. You know how my mom was a therapist right?" Momo said as she pointed her fork at Ichigo.
"No, you didn't tell me that but okay... What's your point?" he asked as he drank his hot chocolate with glee.
Momo cleared her throat after gulping her tea down. She gestured Ichigo to come closer indicating that it wasn't something for public ears. "I became a psychiatrist because of my mom. Why? Because one patient of hers was my friend... But she was transferred to another doctor once they figured that she had a mental disorder. My mom fought to be her therapist. To make things worse, my Mom was losing before her car accident. That is why I'm here but that's not really important now."
"Please get back to the topic Momo."
"Okay, one of her patients for therapy was Orihime Inoue. And that was eight years ago." Momo said as Ichigo's eyes widened.
"Why did she need therapy?" Rukia asked as the topic had begun to interest her.
"Rape. But it's wasn't just any kind of rape, it was gang rape and sodomy as well." Momo replied as she drank more tea to rehydrated her parched tongue.
"So you're saying she's a little crazy?" Ichigo asked.
Momo glared at him. "A patient is still a patient. Have some respect. Now then, she's completely sane but since my Mom wasn't around anymore. Her treatment was somewhat jumbled up. She thinks revenge is the only way to get through life. And she probably thinks people like you and Rukia shouldn't exist."
Rukia fixed the papers and settled them down neatly. She looked at Momo. "People like us? She mentioned that before."
"It's a common mentality among rape victims. People who aren't defiled by anything shouldn't exist. It's a way for them to find comfort knowing how everybody else is just like them." Momo replied.
"So you are useful." Ichigo joked with Momo receiving another glare from said doctor.
"Of course I am. How do you think Rukia made it through all those break ups? Rather, how do you think Rukia was able to put up with you instead of beating you to a bloody pulp?" Momo replied angrily.
He paused. "Oh..."
"Rukia, remind me why you're dating this poor evolution of a Neanderthal?" Momo asked angrily.
Rukia shrugged. "Don't ask me. I thought you wanted me to date him."
Momo sighed. She couldn't believe Rukia was using her own words against her. It was just unfathomable. "You're no fun anymore... Both of you. I need some new couple to torture." Momo sighed as she at the last bit of her delicious scone. She looked towards Kiyone with hopefully. "Kiyone, do you have a boyfriend? Or a crush? Potential love interest?"
Kiyone shook her head as she was foaming something. "Sadly... I'm not looking for any right now actually." Kiyone replied.
"Well that's too bad."
"What about Renji?" Rukia asked. "He's always to fun to tease regardless of whether he's single or not." Rukia suggested.
Momo shot Rukia an angry look. "Renji and Tatsuki aren't here."
"Now you're acting like me on a bad mood." Rukia commented.
"I've known you from before you were a Kuchiki. Of course I know how you act." Momo replied as she finally consumed the last drop of tea.
Ichigo just laughed. "Oh, so you do know how you act when you're in a bad mood." he teased as Rukia shot him a glare.
She crossed her arms and sipped her coffee. "If you're gonna be like that them I'm not giving you another one." Rukia said stubbornly.
Ichigo's eyes widened as he began to calk Rukia down by begging. "W-wait! Rukia... God forbid you take away such a thing from me!"
"It's always the man who gives in to the urge. It's never the woman. You probably can't live without it for a few days but we women can." Rukia replied professionally.
"Ah... Look, I'm sorry Rukia. Can we let bygones be bygones?"
"No."
"Ruki-"
"No."
He ruffled his head in frustration. Momo grinned as she realized the nature of the conversation. She patted Ichigo at the back to further his misery. "That's alright Ichigo. If you return the favor, Rukia's gonna give you another head."
The couple jumped at the fact that Momo figured out the nature of the conversation and blushed furiously. "Oh? Looks like you two will be my toy for a little while longer." Momo grinned.
"Shove it Momo." the yelled at her simultaneously.
"Yeah yeah."
They were just joking around and laughing. They were teasing each other like good friends as Rukia had begun to forget the earlier incident. It was just the effect that her best friend and her boyfriend had on her. The door opened with the usual sound of the jingling bells. Rukia turned around to find black spiky raven hair and aqua blue eyes.
He had been wearing black coat along with an ice blue shirt. His scarf was a lighter shade of blue and he had been simply wearing a common set of buttersoft jeans. He had been wearing his usual casual smile and as soon as he approached the counter, Kiyone fainted after taking a good look at the man and Ichigo.
"Kiyone!" Rukia yelled as the poor kid dropped to the ground. Rukia groaned angrily as she limped to the poor girl and got her on the usual stool. She had to work while Kiyone was out cold.
"Kaien... You cannot do that." Rukia sighed as she rubbed her temples furiously.
He chuckled. "Yes I can, it's a free country. Now about the cafe latte?"
"Before I get to that, why are you out of the hospital?" she asked as if she was scolding a child.
"I got bored so they let me out. They said something about my recovery rate being astounding and all that medical terminology. So I went back home. Looks like my little brother and sister took good care of my apartment." he said as he put the money on the counter.
"You really should rest up."
"And miss your trial? Hell no." he replied as he leaned on the counter.
Rukia gave him his coffee before getting something from a drawer. She brought out a picture and gave it to him. "This is your copy." she said as she took the money and got the change.
"My copy?" he asked as he looked at the picture. "Oh, this one huh?"
"Yes, that one. Now take it so I can start on a clean slate." she said in a very businesslike fashion.
He laughed as he placed said picture in a pocket inside his coat. "Will do Rukia, will do. Should I leave because I'm getting bad vibes from that table over there." Kaien said as he pointed to the table where Ichigo was.
True enough, Ichigo was gripping the table being jealous.
"Him? I'll control him. You need to stay for a bit. I mean, it's freezing outside. And you need to apologize to this passed out girl over here." Rukia said as she gestured to Kiyone.
Kaien took his drink gratefully. "Alright, if you insist."
Kaien walked over to Ichigo's table and sat there with Momo's permission. It was obvious that Kaien wanted to piss the man off. "Yo, have you made her cry yet?" he asked with his usual stupid grin.
"No, I haven't... Do you intend to?"
"No thanks. I don't want to see St. Peter so early." Kaien replied as he sipped his coffee while Ichigo felt extremely uncomfortable sitting with Rukia's ex... Rather ex-fiancé.
"Now I want to hear this from you. How has Rukia been."
"She's been great thank you very much." Ichigo replied.
"Details." Kaien asked.
Ichigo crossed his arms and allowed his trademark scowl to show. "We fight, we bicker, we flirt, we kiss and so on and so forth. If she's fighting back and ready to castrate me then she's fine." Ichigo commented as a smile surfaced in the end.
Kaien smiled a soft smile as well. "I'm jealous. You have Rukia's undivided attention."
"You had it before." Ichigo shot back.
"She never treated me the way she treats you. We never bickered a lot actually. We were just like any other couple actually." Kaien said with a far off look as he sipped his coffee.
"Kaien's right, what you guys have was something Rukia never really had actually. She only answers back to you. With Grimmjow, she didn't answer back as much because he knew better than to challenge her." Momo added as she asked Rukia for another cup of chamomile tea.
"Really?" Ichigo asked as his voice lightened up a few notched.
Kaien raised his right hand and used his left to cross his heart. "Promise. I have no reason to lie to you Ichigo." he said with closed eyes.
"Ask away my friend. I'll tell you anything about Rukia." Kaien said as though he was talking to his high school junior.
"For free?" Ichigo asked.
"For free." Kaien confirmed before stopping to think. "How about this. I'll test you on how much you know Rukia and I'll tell you the things you don't know."
"Easy question number one! What does Rukia keep in the bottom shelf of her closet?"
"It's an altar to Chappy!" Ichigo replied enthusiastically.
"Correct! Now what does she keep in her drawer?"
"Her photo album and her sketchpad filled to the brim with her horrible drawings!"
"That is absolutely correct! What's Rukia's favorite food?"
"She loves Italian food so much to the point that it's unhealthy. Her comfort food is a bitter slice of Tiramisu!"
"Now then! Who is Rukia's Hollywood crush!"
All of sudden, Rukia came lurking behind them. She both hit their heads as she slammed the tray with Momo's tea on the table without spilling anything. "Ichigo! Don't ask for spoilers like that." she said angrily before she faced Kaien. "And as for you, don't answer that question." Rukia said as a faint blush stained her cheeks. Apparently, the answer was quite embarrassing for her.
With an air of finality, she went back to the counter to try and revive Kiyone.
Kaien and Momi grinned as they gestured Ichigo to come closer. "She claims to hate you as an actor but that is an absolute lie. She adored you when she was in college. Though that was only for a year. Believe it or not, she once dreamt of you without a shirt on." Momo and Kaien said alternately
"She got over that crush, but for some reason, it became extreme unnecessary hate instead." Momo added as Kaien simply nodded.
"It's funny how she loves you now." Kaien chuckled.
"It's also funny how she owns your godlike model body now. Yes, the godlike and model were her own words." Momo added.
Ichigo grinned deviously. "Is that so?"
"Don't get so horny right now my friend." Kaien joked. "If she sees an erection, she'll cut it off immediately."
Ichigo frowned. "Oh shut up Kaien."
"Hey Ichigo. Wanna go out for a drink sometime? Small time bars have better drinks than the clubs as well as a better atmosphere. You won't attract attention there." Kaien offered.
Ichigo shook his head. "I'll just stick to Rukia's liquor. But a drink would be nice. Maybe some other time, we can hang out."
"It's always rare for ex's to be friends with the current one because the jealousy gets in the way but you seem like a pretty cool guy. It'd be great to be friends with you instead of enemies." Kaien said as he just finished his coffee.
Ichigo leaned back on his chair. "Sounds like fun Kaien."
"Yeah, it sure does."
Orihime Inoue prepared a disguise for herself. It would be quite troublesome to enter the courtroom if she was being herself. Going with a disguise would be less hassle. She had to go, that Kuchiki intrigued her. As soon as she was done dressing her up, she exited her room and sat on her leather couch waiting for Ulquiorra. Yes, she had managed to drag Ulquiorra with her despite his protests which consisted of robotic whining and scientific retorts which didn't do much to change Orihime's mind.
He stepped out in his usual clothes and with the same blank expression he carried on a regular day to day basis. It was infuriating actually.
Orihime sighed as she grabbed his wrist and dragged him to his room which she forcibly opened with her master key much to his dismay. She knew very well how much he liked- no, loved his privacy. She quickly opened the lights and went straight for his closet.
Black. White. Black. White. Black. White.
"Ulquiorra... Why is it the only thing you have here that's not black and white was the beige coat I got you for your birthday?" Orihime asked angrily.
"Shopping is a hassle. As long as there is clothing, it should be fine." he replied lazily.
Orihime massaged her temples. "At least where something else aside from your usual button up shirt."
She sat on his black and white bed and crossed her legs. "I'm not leaving with you wearing your usual."
Ulquiorra sighed as he got his only plaid shirt which was still black and white. He grabbed a loose white tie but dared no to change his pants anymore. He took said cashmere coat and put it aside. He began unbuttoning his shirt before stopping midway. "Woman, aren't you going to leave?"
"No, I need to make sure you actually change." Orihime replied stubbornly.
I guess she can be quite stubborn...
"Suit yourself."
She had to take a peek. Just a tiny peek. It was only natural that she was curious since every time she leaned against him or cling onto his arm, he wasn't skinny. He was somewhat lean and now she was curious. Just one tiny peek. Even the back is just fine.
He wasn't paying any attention to her as he took of his shirt revealing a lean strong body despite him being not muscly or brawny. He was lightly toned and one could see the not so obvious lines of his abdomen. Okay Orihime, you can stop looking now...
"Hey Ulquiorra, do you work out or something?" Orihime asked casually.
"I have a black belt in Aikido if that helps." he replied nonchalantly as he put on his shirt hence, obscuring Orihime's view.
"Why would you have one?"
"An old friend of mine complained on how wimpy I was an forced me to take it with him." Ulquiorra sighed.
"What's his name?"
"It was quite odd actually, he was always into gangs and things like that. Going to dojos were never his thing yet he forced me to go with him. I think it was for a woman actually." he replied.
"Stop deviating from the question. Answer me." Orihime demanded.
"His name's Grimmjow Jaegerjaques."
"Oh! Him! The cute SFX guy from Las Noches studios!" Orihime exclaimed in recognition. "But why is he more built than you?"
"Body type I guess." Ulquiorra replied.
"True, I can't imagine you being as big as that Grimmjow guy or Ichigo Kurosaki." Orihime laughed.
Ulquiorra just sighed. There was no way he could understand women. "Why are you so determined to go to this trial? I know Rukia Kuchiki is somewhat of a celebrity in business and politics." Ulquiorra asked.
"Yes, well. I went to her cafe earlier."
"Was that why you were crying then?"
"Yeah, she outsmarted me. She trusts Ichigo to a such a degree, it's impossible to break them up." Orihime said. "She told me to come watch her. She says she'll show just exactly why she's so different from me."
"She sounds like an interesting person."
Orihime lied down on his bed. "She is. For once in my life, I don't know what to do. I've always been scheming and all but at least I had goals then. I've met my match and now I'm at an impasse. I can understand why Ichigo Kurosaki would seriously fall in love with her."
"How about you woman? Do you have someone you love?"
"I don't know. Love isn't a science project Ulquiorra. You can't always tell."
"And how many times have you been in love?"
"Once... No scratch that. Make that twice." she smiled.
I'd say once as well... Orihime...
Rukia Kuchiki arrived at the courthouse rather early along with Ichigo, Momo and Kaien. As soon as they paid the taxi driver, they entered. After going through the hallway, they finally reached the waiting areas for Courtroom number two. Rukia made it a point to visit Ukitake first. The first step to winning was to ask him for something first.
The door burst opened and Ukitake greeted the group as his defendant was sitting on the couch looking rather maniacal. "Mr. Ukitake sir... We need to talk." Rukia said before eyeing the defendant with disgust. "In private."
Ukitake nodded. "Hey Mr. Gilga, I'm just going step out for a bit."
He eyed the group strangely. "Who's she?"
"She's a friend of mine. She wants to try and join my law firm you see." Ukitake replied.
Nnoitra gave the thumbs up as the group transferred to the second waiting room. As soon as everyone was through Kaien locked the door behind him before Ukitake started making weird sounds. Kaien began to laugh. "Hey, Mr. Ukitake. They didn't tell you about me did they?" Kaien asked as he pointed to himself.
Ukitake shook his head hysterically. "No... I'm afraid they didn't."
"Kaien aside. How's Yachiru?" Rukia interjected.
"That's mean Rukia... just pushing me away." Kaien joked before Ichigo grabbed him and pulled him a few feet back.
"Serves you right Kaien." Ichigo mumbled.
"Are you guys trying to make a comedy show here!" Rukia yelled at the both of them in which they both shook their heads. Damn she was scary.
Rukia sighed angrily. These two were like children and she was the babysitter. "Answer the question sir." Rukia demanded. They didn't have all night. Meanwhile, Momo took Rukia's job of controlling them.
"She's fine... But she hasn't eaten." Ukitake replied with a pained look.
"That puts us in a bad position. Listen Ukitake, our assassin doesn't know Nnoitra plans to blackmail him. We need to bring this fact into light and we need our assassin to testify." Rukia said.
"Rukia, that's rather difficult don't you think?" Ukitake replied.
"He contacts you using a radio receiver doesn't he? And you and I both know he'll call you once he hears what I have to say." Rukia said.
"That might be true. But Rukia, once you're in court, Nnoitra will know I lied to him. We can't have the court have a recess no matter what. We need to keep this trial running with no breaks." Ukitake added.
"That I can do. But I need to be relentless. The moment we stop coming up with an argument you win and this trial is over. And then there's double jeopardy. Sometimes you love it and most of the time you hate it." Rukia commented.
"What about Yachiru? If you win, they won't let her go."
"That's where the blackmail comes in. Since Nnoitra has been in custody the whole time, I got Zaraki to get a search warrant of his house. We found the video and Nnoitra doesn't seem to know about our little search of his house so all's good. I'm getting Zaraki to testify as well."
"Just like old times." Ukitake commented.
"Let's have a little faith shall we?" Rukia said.
"Yeah. We should. "Ukitake agreed.
"You need to go back to your client Ukitake... Good luck." Rukia said with a hopeful smile:
Ukitake smiled his usual fatherly smile as he exited the room. "See you at court again Rukia."
The door closed as a couple of footsteps zeroed in towards Rukia. Rukia spun around and smiled. Ichigo hugged her and caught her by surprise. Eventually, she ended up hugging him back. "Good luck out there midget."
"Ichigo..."
He pulled back and leaned down to kiss her, she of course kissed him back as soon as contact was made. As they were kissing, Momo was standing next to the couch as Kaien sat down on the couch. He held his hands together and buried his face in them.
"Hey Momo?"
"Yeah?"
"The moving on part... Is rather difficult." he said as he looked rather grim.
"Rukia had three years. You've just started." Momo replied.
"I know... It's just that... You can't help but feel jealous you know?"
"I'm afraid I can't help you Kaien."
"It reminds me of those weird psychological movies. It looks like a memory from the past. The thing is... your watching the memory play out and I'm not that guy."
"It's a bitch ain't it?" Momo chuckled.
Kaien buried his face even more. "It sure as hell is."
"Court is now in session!" Komamura yelled in his usual booming voice.
"Ms. Kuchiki, I see you're back again." Komamura commented as Rukia simply crossed her arms looking as smug as ever.
"Yes, I believe you have the documents from Mr. Hitsugaya?" she inquired.
Komamura grabbed some papers his pile and presented it to the court. "Yes, you being the substitute is official." he said as his eyes trailed off to the guy standing next to her. "Y-you!"
"Long time no see Komamura sir... Wait, I mean your honor..." Kaien greeted with his trademark friendly obnoxious grin.
"Kaien Shiba... I see that you're awake now." Komamura said as though he was choking on something rather big.
"I'm not surprise that you're shocked your honor. I did show you a bloody version of me after all." Kaien stated jokingly. It was as if his incident was just a minor thing and he never entered into a coma to begin with.
"Umm you honor? Mr. Shiba insisted on coming." Rukia sighed.
Komamura breathed in deep. "He's only acting as your aid so I will permit it." he allowed. "Now then is the prosecution ready?"
"Yes your honor."
"Is the defense ready?"
"Yes your honor."
"Will the prosecution give the opening statement?"
"The prosecution only has one thing to say. Defendant Nnoitra Gilga is guilty unarguably and I will prove that to the court." Rukia replied with crossed arms.
"Will the prosecution call her first witness?" Komamura said on procedure.
Rukia kept her arms crossed. The moment she loses confidence is the moment she loses. "The prosecution would like to call upon a familiar face as a witness."
"Bring him in baliff."
After a few minuscule seconds, the large mahogany doors of the courtroom opened revealing a rather large crazy looking maniacal man. He wasn't grinning wickedly as usual. His bad mood just intimidated everybody else except for Rukia, Kaien, Ukitake and Komamura.
He walked to the witness stand and scratched the back of his head.
"Well this is rather suprising." Komamura blurted out.
"Witness, name and occupation." Rukia demanded. It's just standard procedure after all.
The man groaned angrily. "Hey Kuchiki... Why is it that every time I go to court you treat me like a rock." he whined.
"Shut up Zaraki... Now just say hi to the court." Rukia shot back.
He shrugged. "Kenpachi Zaraki, captain of eleventh division of the homicide department." he said lazily.
"Please testify regarding the actual state of the crime scene."
"Of course." he replied before gathering his thoughts. "Hey Kuchiki, formal or informal?"
Rukia sighed. "Just do as you always do. Watching you being formal is the same as watching you dancing to swan lake." Rukia replied.
"Now that is scary. Now then, everyone knows about the crime scene details but I'll put it into more accurate detail. On the dresser was a pristine and untouched bottle of tomato juice and we all know why that's there. The living room area is completely untouched aside from the right couch being moved due to the struggle between our killer and the victim. The victim has a knife wound yes but that wasn't the cause of death. The cause of death was a shot straight through the heart be a big ass revolver indicating that our killer's a pro. There were also signs of attempted strangulation."
"Wait! Mr. Zaraki, how do you know that the killer's a pro? It was never brought up during the trial the day before yesterday." Ukitake asked.
"Yes, the .357 magnum is a difficult gun with enough recoil to dislodge an amateur shoulder. You need to be someone like me to able to get away scratch free." Zaraki replied.
"I see, carry on."
Zaraki fixed his eye patch. "Anyway, the rope used for the strangulation was probably the triple braid kind based on the imprint on the neck. The triple braid is flexible and sturdy making it ideal for strangulation. Though I wouldn't suggest using it unless you had the hands of a sailor. There was the guitar case which was wet on the inside but completely dry on the outside indicating that something wet was in there. There was rain that day so perhaps it got wet somehow and was placed there."
"Mr. Zaraki, how could you tell that te object was soaked in rain? Please amend your answer to your testimony."
"The court accepts Mr. Ukitake request." Komamura announced with a bang of his gavel.
"Yeah yeah... The guitar case reeked of rain. It's the usual stench you get. I'm sure everyone is this courtroom knows the scent. Our analysts said that it was most probably rain water anyway." Zaraki added.
"If there aren't any questions about my little recap here then I'll carry on with the real testimony." Zaraki asked.
"Just one thing Mr. Zaraki. Is there anything else you're not telling us?" Ukitake asked.
Zaraki grinned maniacally. "Remember that odd card with a whole in the middle? The one the assistant was holding."
"Yes, we all know that." Ukitake replied.
Rukia was grinning as Zaraki grinned like a man.
"Turns out that that card is the business card of the Menos Grande. I'm sure everyone knows him right? He's the famed assassin who's been plaguing us with assassinations for generations." Rukia said smugly.
"You got that right." Zaraki scoffed. "He leaved this card as proof or assurance to his client that it was him indeed who killed the target." he added.
The audience had begun to whisper among themselves before chaos filled the courtroom. It was only natural for them to be like this. Turns out, someone hired a celebrated assassin to assassinate the victim splendid. Komamura banged the gavel numerous times to regain order. Once order and silence came in, Komamura spoke.
"This makes things rather hard. Anyone could've been the one who ordered the hit on the victim. What makes you so confident when you're on the losing end Ms. Kuchiki?" Ukitake asked as he leaned against his stretched arms on the table.
"My my Mr. Ukitake, have you already forgotten the one rule in court? Evidence is everything." Rukia replied with her hand on her waist.
"And you're saying you have evidence?" Ukitake shot back.
"Of course I do. And mind you, it does follow the most basic evidence law. It's been approved by the police department." Rukia replied.
"You are still rather good." Ukitake replied.
"Who do you take me for?" she replied smugly. It was like a scene from three years ago.
"Now then Ms. Kuchiki, please show me this evidence you're so fond of." Ukitake asked.
"With pleasure." Rukia replied as she brought out a single video tape. It would've meant nothing if the defendant wasn't sweating bullets in his little chair.
"Mr. Ukitake. Please try to contact Menos Grande." Rukia asked.
He nodded seriously as Komamura interned.
"Contact Menos Grande! Are you insane Ms Kuchiki!" Komamura yelled.
"Your honor, if you would recall, me and Mr. Ukitake's court runs on crazy." Rukia replied as Ukitake brought out his radio transceiver. He clicked a button and the man instantly picked up. Ukitake placed it on loud speaker.
"Interesting..." a synthesized voice said from the transceiver.
"You're Menos Grande correct?" Rukia asked.
"Yes, if you mean I killed Neliel Tu Odelschvank then yes. I am the seventh generation Menos Grande." the voice replied.
"Good, you're watching this broadcast now aren't you Mr. Menos Grande sir?" Rukia asked.
"Naturally. You are an intriguing lawyer Ms. Kuchiki." he replied.
"Glad to hear it. Now, we'll show this tape in court Mr. Menos Grande and by the end of it, you will testify for us." Rukia demanded.
Even Ukitake thought this wouldn't work out. Everyone thought so except for Rukia and company.
"Alright... If this video means anything then I will testify. If it doesn't, I'm cutting the line permanently. Is that a deal Ms. Kuchiki?" the voice asked.
"Of course it's a deal." Rukia replied as the bailiff popped the tape in the video player for the court.
The television had a short gray blank before the guest room appeared in full color. A man dressed as a waiter came in. He had been wearing an odd mask which looked like a monster and he had the .357 magnum in his hand along with a rope and a knife evident in his pocket. He strangled the victim from behind but she had managed to escape while writhing in pain from the burning from her neck. The man tried to stab her but failed to do so properly. He strangled her again until she fainted before he shot the bullet with a silencer to conceal the gunshot. Once the deed was done, he dropped his card. Took of his mask, though his back was facing the camera unfortunately and he left looking as though nothing had happened. His suit was a pristine as ever.
And the courtroom was silent. Everyone was in awe with what they saw. It was the exact moment of the murder clear as day. And that was indeed Menos Grande in the flesh. Zaraki was just grinning madly while Rukia was looking just as smug. Ukitake was still shocked since the contents of the video wasn't revealed to him. Rukia dared to speak.
"So Mr. Menos Grande. That was you wasn't it?"
"Why yes... It was... Where did you get this video?" the voice demanded.
"Before that, I think you should check where you kept Yachiru Kusajishi hostage." Rukia said as the transceiver emitted the sound of footsteps.
"What! She's... Gone... What did you do Rukia Kuchiki!" the man angrily shouted.
"It's called covert operations. Former undercover agent, Yoruichi Shihouin has retrieved her without your knowledge. She's well known for being as stealthy as a cat." Rukia replied as the court doors burst in.
Yoruichi entered the courtroom with a young girl with pink hair. She was a little pale from the lack of food but as soon as she saw Zaraki, her face brightened up considerable and she ran to Kenpachi Zaraki. He hoisted her up and allowed her to cling to his shoulder once more with a much more gentler smile. It was still intimidating though.
"When did you-"
"Sorry Mr. Menos Grande. We had th trace the transceiver throughout our talk with you and we got there as fast as we could. You were pretty close here so we found you rather easily. We could apprehend you so we just grabbed Yachiru and here we are. I distracts you with that video." Rukia replied.
"Aren't you the smart one?"
"Of course."
"I'm rather mad right now Ms. Kuchiki. So I gave this great idea, if you let Mr. Defense Attorney there get a complete acquittal, I won't do anything."
"And what were you planning?"
"I was thinking of shooting you buy then you wouldn't feel any pain so I thought of shooting Momo Hinamorilike I shot Toshiro Hitsugaya. Oh wait, I can shoot Kaien Shiba and make him permanently dead. Or better yet, I will gun Ichigo Kurosaki down." he threatened.
"Is that the best you've got?" Rukia asked.
"You aren't scared? Don't you care for them all?"
"Of course I do, with my life. However, do you want to know who got that video?" she asked confidently.
"Yes, I would like to know before I start sniping you beloved ones." he replied.
"Nnoitra Gilga bought the bear where the camera was hidden in. He also purchased the camera and everything. We also found the video being transmitted to his residence. In other words, he was planning on blackmailing you from the start to protect himself. He never believed in your client assassin relationship thing." Rukia said coldly.
"Ms. Kuchiki, you're saying that Nnoitra Gilga hired our assassin!" Komamura asked.
"Yes exactly. That's why you'll testify won't you? Mr. Menos Grande?"
There was silence along with the sound of something breaking through the transceiver. "Ms. Kuchiki... Testifying will he my pleasure."
"Then by all means Mr. Menos Grande." Rukia replied.
"One week ago, I was called by Nnoitra Gilga to assassinate Neliel Tu Odelschvank should things go sour at the awards. It would've been another clean job if that stupid assistant didn't come frame my client. So I had to take extra measures to ensure my client's safety. I kidnapped the good detectives kid and used her to bribe Ukitake over there to get a complete acquittal. And there's the story. I'm willing to fax the documents of the kill if you prefer."
Komamura's face began to look like an angered wolf. He ordered the defendant to the stand. "Nnoitra Gilga... Do you still plead not guilty?"
"Yes! Of course I do, he's lying to protect his client!" Nnoitra yelled.
"Mr. Gilga... It's all over. If you plead not guilty, Menos Grande will hunt you down. If you plead guilty, you'll be safe in a jail cell. You choice." Ukitake reasoned.
"Ukitake, I'll handle the scaring." Rukia said as she banged her hand on the table. "Mr. Gilga. Would you rather have our friendly neighborhood assassin hunt you down for fifteen years and torture you for another fifteen before killing you slowly and painfully? Or would you rather stay safe in a warm and cozy jail cell, free from torture. I believe our friend the assassin doesn't have all day to wait." Rukia said as though a demon possessed her.
With that, Nnoitra began to have a total break down on the podium.
"Oh fuck! Yes! I plead guilty for fuckiny sake!" he yelled hysterically as the bailiff took him away.
The crowd was restless and the noise didn't waver until Komamura banged his gavel hard. He was silent before he spoke. "You've outdone yourself again Ms. Kuchiki. It's been such an honor to watch you prosecute like this again. It truly is... If it weren't for you... We wouldn't have the verdict which be announcing now."
"This court pronounced Nnoitra Gilga Guilty! He will be tried in a higher correct next month as of today. Court is adjourned."
As soon as she got out of the courtroom, Rukia was bombarded by her loving boyfriend, her only best friend in the whole wide world, her ex-fiancé and friend as well as Renji and Tatsuki who managed to make it. Toshiro was there as well, on a wheelchair with IV drops that is. Ukitake and Kiyone was there as well.
Ichigo laughed as he picked her up. "Now we are definitely celebrating! Food's on me people!" he yelled.
"Rukia... I'm rather bitter right now. Why are you still better than me... I
Didn't expect that..." Toshiro said bitterly.
"I'm still in awe. It's as if you never left..." Ukitake said dumbstruck.
Kaien placed his hand on her shoulder. "You did great out there Rukia..."
They were practically celebrating already when two people interrupted. Momo and Kaien moved to the side revealing Orihime Inoue and an unknown man who looked like he would rather be elsewhere. Ichigo took Rukia away protectively but she stopped him and confronted her.
"Do you understand now Orihime?" Rukia asked.
Orihime discretely squeezed Ulquiorra's shirt tighter. "I'd like to say I didn't but lying is rather bad seeing as though this guy over here is a walking lie detector." she said sarcastically.
"Woman... At least refer to me as a normal person." he whined monotonously.
"Ulquiorra, there is nothing about you that's normal." Orihime shot back before surprising everyone.
She bowed her head towards Rukia in apology. "Look, I'm sorry..." she said sincerely. "I guess I need to admit that I was jealous. I mean, how could people be so happy when I'm suffering."
"When I lost for the first time, I lost sight of the goals I had. Then I realized that the one thing to fill the void was just so close to me..." she said as she glanced at Ulquiorra without him noticing. Rukia did and smiled.
Rukia extended her hand with a smile. "You're forgiven. I hate holding grudges and you shouldn't too. I'll have a good talk with the prison guys so that those creeps who ruined you could get the needle."
Orihime stared at her in awe. Her hand was quivering as she grabbed onto Rukia's hand and shook it. She was about to cry for real. "Thank you..." she said as a joyful tear fell down her cheek. She wiped it off and hid her face. "Thank you so much... I think... It would be great to be friends with a person like you." Orihime blurted out. Ichigo wondered just how much did she reflect?
She wiped her tears and approached Ichigo. "I'm sorry Ichigo? I was stupid."
He scowled and crossed his arms. "You're more than stupid. You were a total bitch you know... But if Rukia's forgiving you... Then I will too."
Her eyes widened. "Really?"
He grinned at her for the first time. "Yes really."
She smiled. "You know, if you smiled at me more, I might've fallen in love with you. Too bad though, I'm into emotionless bitchy guys now." she joked.
Rukia glanced at said guy and saw him blush slightly. It was rather odd. She smiled and introduced herself anyway. "Rukia Kuchiki, cafe owner and lawyer."
He replied with the same courtesy. "Ulquiorra Schiffer, composer."
"You and Orihime should visit my cafe sometime. I'll give you're first time a discount. I'll make it free if you take her on a date." Rukia teased.
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me." she smiled teasingly as she limped back to Ichigo's side.
"Hey Momo, I think I found you a new toy."
Momo was grinning deviously. "Thanks Rukia... Thank you very much..." she grinned.
All of them went out to party. On their way to restaurant, Orihime and Rukia chatted as though they were friends before.
Tadah! Another chapter! I'm satisfied with it's length again and I hoped my Orihime got through to you. When I started out, I wanted her to be a villain but then, eventually. I wanted to give her chance. I don't really hate Orihime I just hate Ichihime. And Ulquiorra was supposed to be in a random Orhime scene and hewas supposed to be working with Grimmjow except he does music.
And don't forget. In my timeline Christmas is two days away! So I want you guys to tell me if I should go with the chapter I prepared in my mind or we go straight to Christmas because things might be going rather fast for you guys and I wouldn't really know. So tell me
Please Review as always!
Many thanks to Moonlight's Shadow Warrior, IRForever, hinataellis, ice devil cat demon, w. cyan, maxslayer10, o0Alyssa0o and shnizlefritz( your name is on autocorrect. Like if I misspell your name, shnizlefritz appears.)
AkaBaka-chan signing off!