Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or the anime who inspired this suitor.
Chapter 25
Three weeks later….
Rukia was called into her brother's office. Renji was attempting to do his paper work, but all he succeeded in doing was making a mess everywhere. Maybe I should go correct him?
Before she could go say hello, Byakuya emerged from his door way. "Rukia, please come in." In a tone she hadn't heard in a while.
She eyed her brother carefully as she took a seat in front of his desk. Cautiously Rukia asked, "Brother, what is all this about?" Although, deep in her heart, she knew that what this meeting was about.
Byakuya cleared his throat before leveling his glaze at her. "I have given you a sufficient amount of time to recover from your trying incident." He stated.
Rukia knew that he was referring to the kidnapping incident, but she was curios if Hitsugaya informed her brother about her fight with Ichigo. Granted, Ichigo was still alive judging by the thousands of texts he sent over the past few weeks so Hitsugaya couldn't have said too much.
"Rukia, are you even listening to me?" Byakuya asked as he startled her back to reality. This day dreaming habit of hers was becoming quite a troublesome habit. His grey eyes pinned her down in her seat. "It's time to start you dating again."
NOOOOOO! Anything but that! Where was Toshiro when she needed him. Maybe he could talk some sense into Byakuya!
With a small inhale, she replied, "Yes, brother." His arched a raven eyebrow at her willingness to date again. "It's fine, brother, really! Toshiro has been training me to master my bankai. This will give me a little stress relief. You know how he is a taskmaster – anything less than perfect is unacceptable so we've been spending a lot of time together."
Toshiro is going to love me for bringing him into this mess again! Oh well, he's a big boy. He can handle it!
"Interesting. I'm glad Hitsugaya has been taking good care of my little sister." Byakuya said in a mocking voice.
Dammit! Why can my brother read me like a book?
I'm glad to hear you say that because I think I found a good suitor for you." Byakuya said with a slight smile that unnerved Rukia. When her brother even had a hint of a facial expression, the result was never good.
Keep calm. Don't let him see you sweat. He will eat you alive, Rukia! Then you'll have to set through more meetings with the matchmaker… Uh… Breathe! Be polite and curious! Don't let him doubt your excitement!
"Oh? Have I met him before?" Rukia asked with a half-smile. She wasn't too curious about the man, but she had to put forth the effort.
"No. I believe, he was assigned to a long mission a year or two after you were adopted into the family. He's a good man, Rukia. He's not a lieutenant, but he has the strength of one. Many think this man is perfect for you not only is he a soul reaper, but he is also a noble." Byakuya watched Rukia's brows scrunch together as she tried to place the man. He decided to put her out of his misery. "His name is Kenshin Shihoin."
Rukia's face paled at his name. "Shihoin?" Her voice squeaked.
"Don't worry. He's Yoruichi's cousin far down the line." But that didn't reassure Rukia. Anyone with the last name of Shihoin now was labeled crazy in her book. "I promise, he is nothing like her, expect for being a great fighter."
Rukia still eyed her brother suspiciously. Right now, the only person that she was trusting with love life advice was Hitsugaya. Byakuya was being too pushy about this so called "perfect man." She wanted to get Hitsugaya's input on this Kenshin Shihoin fellow. At least, he didn't have a hidden agenda.
Steeling her nerves, Rukia asked, "When is this date supposed to take place?"
"Right now if you'll have me." A voice came from the doorway. Terror ran through her veins. She didn't want to turn around and face this mysterious man. Granted, she knew that she wasn't being fair, but could you blame here?
For her brother's sake, she applied her best acting skills. With a smile plastered on her face, Rukia turned towards the voice in the doorway. A man with long, red hair tied in a ponytail. His bangs framed all around his face. But his eyes were the real mystery. The light purple eyes saw battle, but he looked like a man of peace. A cross scar marked his handsome face. His aura was powerful yet extremely friendly. This man was not one to be crossed, but he was a great ally.
"Kenshin Shihoin, at your service Lieutenant Kuchiki." The red-haired man bowed at her. Rukia was taken back by his manner. He acted with such grace and dignity. "It's an honor to meet you. I've heard wonderful things about you from Yoruichi and Yuushiro."
Rukia cringed at that thought. What the hell did they tell this poor man to make him this happy to date me?
"I guess it's okay if my brother approves." Rukia shot Byakuya a glance. He nodded his head hiding and encouraging smirk. stood up and mimicked his bow. "Then thank you for having me on this date, Kenshin."
Byakuya smiled like a proud father as his glaze went from Rukia to Kenshin. He hoped the older red-head reminded her of Renji and Ashido. He was tired of not seeing his little sister smile unless she was with Hitsugaya. Granted, Renji hasn't been able to see her too often since he took over her high level hollow/arrancar patrols in Karakura Town. He and Ichigo were already at each other's throats over something. Byakuya was just about positive that their arguments involved Rukia, and the fact that Renji wasn't helping Ichigo win her over again.
"What have you scheduled for today?" Byakuya asked. He wanted to make sure Rukia was comfortable with Kenshin.
"Actually, I heard a rumor that Lieutenant Kuchiki liked the snow. Since it has started snowing, I thought we'd have fun outdoors today."
Deadly grey eyes narrowed on the red-headed man. "What do you mean a rumor?"
"Byakuya, calm down. In this case, he's referring to the expression in the World of the Living for asking around what a person likes to do."
His grey eyes still narrowed on the man. "You will treat my sister with respect. Being noble will not save you if any harm comes to one hair on her head." He sweetly threatened.
Rukia was left feeling confused. Wasn't he the one who set this date up? If so, why was he threatening Kenshin?
"Shall we leave my lady?" Kenshin asked as he admired the beautiful soul reaper in front of him. He would have to thank Yoruichi for recommending this meeting.
"Sure, but first I need to get my cloak my office." Rukia replied.
"Lead the way, milady." Kenshin said as he opened the door for Rukia and flash stepped behind her to Squad 13.
As she stepped through the door, Ukitake greeted her. "Rukia, what are you doing back. I thought Byakuya would have you for the rest of the day?"
"Yes…" Rukia threw a lingering glance at Kenshin as he stepped beside her. "Plans changed."
Ukitake eyes widened. "Kenshin?" The older man stood in shock.
"Greetings, Uncle!" Kenshin replied happily as he enveloped the sickly, white-haired captain in hug.
"Un…Uncle?" Rukia swallowed a gasp.
"Byakuya didn't tell you anything, did he?" Ukitake shot Rukia look with pity in his eyes. He knew what his nephew was capable of, but he also believed Byakuya was right. Maybe they could help each other.
"Captain, I only thought I had a brief meeting with my brother. Turns out I have a date!" Rukia replied as she threw an apologetic glance at Kenshin. Her date blushed a little. "But I am curious as to how you didn't know Kenshin was back if you're his uncle."
"Well, Uncle could be used loosely." He said as he smiled fondly at Kenshin. "I helped raise him so he will treat you will, Rukia. Now, go enjoy your date!"
"But Captain…" Rukia protested only to have Kenshin produce her cloak in his arms.
"Let's go. He's had a little shock." Kenshin stated. He promised Ukitake that he would be back for tea soon as he dragged a protesting Rukia away
"Then I should stay!" Byakuya's dating command be damned!
Kenshin's picked her up and threw her over his shoulders. He hated to pick her up, but Yoruichi warned him that the little beauty had one hell of a temper. "Not today little one. Uncle Ukitake has had a major shock to his system. He needs to be alone, Rukia. So come along." He sat a very pissed off Rukia down once they exited the squad office.
He planned to use reason with the petite soul reaper. If looks could kill, Kenshin would be dead on the floor. "Look, just come with me, I'll explain everything once we find a quiet place. How about that?"
Finally, Rukia relented with a nod. "You owe me quite a few explanations, mister."
Their brief stare off was interrupted by a chilling wind. Kenshin looked at the winter wonderland in front of them.
Bloody hell! A blizzard? You have to be freaking kidding me! Rukia searched the surrounding areas trying to find a pair of teal eyes. This better be caused by nature! Toshiro is going to get it if he had a hand in this!
"Guess plans have changed." Kenshin stated as Rukia came out of shock.
"I know a place we can go." Rukia replied shocking herself. She was curious about this unusual man's story, especially since it was tied to her captain.
The sunroom was one of the most peaceful rooms in all Kuchiki Manor. They could sit at the antique white tea table and have tea while they watched the blinding white snow fall. Rukia was slightly relieved to be at Kuchiki Manor because her servants would serve as chaperons. Of course, that was her hope until Ari came in bearing tea. The old woman gave Kenshin a once over, then she smiled evilly.
Rukia knew that look! Damn the woman and her meddling! She was going to relay all the gossip to every hired help within the 4 noble houses. A question formed in Rukia's mind. Does she send Ari away, and risk even more gossip? Or does she ignore the noisy, hovering woman?
Ari bowed, and she was openly drooling at Kenshin. Rukia didn't appreciate the older woman's behavior. She represented the Kuchikis for crying out loud! This type of behavior was unacceptable.
Before Rukia dismissed Ari, Kenshin's deep voice cut through the room. "You my leave. Thank you for your service." He said as he watched Rukia frown. Ari beamed a brilliant smile as she disappeared behind a closed door. The old woman was itching to tell the others about "Lady Kuchiki's young, man."
He better be worth this headache!
Instead of worrying over the inevitable, Rukia poured tea for herself and Kenshin. He sipped the tea letting out a small groan. "This is perfect!" Kenshin murmured.
"I'm glad you like it! It's a special blend that Mr. Fujimoto makes for us after we helped him solve a hollow problem."
"What's it called?" Kenshin asked as he tried to identify the flavors bursting in his mouth.
"Snow Geisha." Rukia replied thoughtfully.
"Hmmm…" Kenshin thought hard as he identified the type of tea. It's a white tea with cherry blossoms, cherries, and maybe roses?"
"I'm impressed. Not many of people identify the cherry blossoms. But you're missing one ingredient! Candied cranberries!" A cheerful Rukia laughed.
"It seems to be a perfect representation of the Kuchiki siblings!"
"Oh, how so?"
"From what I hear, you look like a beauty snow geisha or a snow princess in your bankai so the name suits you along with it being a white tea. The cherry blossom clearly represents Byakuya while the rose represents love."
"Kami, you're fascinating!" Rukia mumbled as she turned away. A smile spread across Kenshin's face. "You heard that, didn't you?"
He nodded to her. "But it's okay. I find you fascinating as will, Rukia." A blush crept across her face at his compliment. Rukia was impressed for someone to analyze their special tea to that extent.
"Since I find you intriguing are you going to tell me all about yourself now?"
"Ah, straight to the point then, Lady Kuchiki?" Rukia raised her perfect raven eyebrow at her companion. "You have the "I am queen voice. Hear me roar." When you want to figure something out and the prison must hush or they'll die."
"I highly doubt my voice says all that!" Rukia huffed.
"You're a force to be reckoned with Rukia Kuchiki." Kenshin said in amazement. "Since a peasant like be can't resist the queen, where would you like me to being?"
"How about something simple? Why have we not met before? Byakuya mentioned a long mission, but that can't be the only reason." Unfortunately, her simple question. She could see the hurt in Kenshin's eyes.
"Like Captain Kuchiki said, I was away on a mission." He said with a sea of sadness in his eyes. His body tensed as he was trying to force down a memory. "Captain Commander Yamamoto sent me and a few others on a special mission in the world of the living. We were watching a growing hollow problem on the other side of the world. They seemed to sporadically mutate, which was all thanks to Aizen in the end."
"You lost team members, didn't you?" Rukia asked softly.
"It's never as simple as that, Rukia, but the full story is for another day. Now, you know why we never met. I was on a far-off mission while you were learning what it meant to be a noble. You did a fanatic job though!"
"I didn't do it without a lot of scolding!" Kenshin gave her a grateful smile for not pressing more on the subject. "You know, I would have been a non-ranking officer when you left. It wasn't until a few years ago that I became a lieutenant."
"Thanks to Ichigo Kurosaki, correct? I've heard stories of him from Yoruichi and Kisuke." A light entered his eyes. Kenshin was curious about the petite women sitting across from him. You could only believe Yoruichi and Kisuke to a certain extent.
"I guess you can say that! We both changed each other's world for the better I believe." A sad smile graced Rukia's lips. "He helped me get over the death of a fine man and his wife."
"Kaien and Miyako were fine people, but they loved you from what everyone has said." All the air left Rukia's lungs at the simple statement. Kenshin noticed a brief flash of guilt in her eyes before she smiled. "Yes, I knew Kaien and Miyako. He was a good friend of mine until his passing."
"Then you know the story?" Rukia asked quietly.
"I know you freed his soul to be reborn. Don't ever regret saving the man that you loved, Rukia. Love is the one thing that makes us strive to be a better person no matter what form of love it is." His light purple eyes held so many emotions. The emotion that Rukia was all too familiar with was look of loss. He lost his love to someone -more than likely death- and there was no getting her back from him.
To relieve his tension, Rukia told Kenshin about her mentor. "Kaien taught me everything that I knew. He was one of two people who saw me for me rather than a Kuchiki. Title, rank, and even names didn't matter to him."
Instead of saying any of the things his eyes held, Kenshin caught her off guard. "You know, he mentored me some too."
Rukia looked at him with a shocked expression on her face. "He taught me to become stronger, and most importantly to leave my heart with my friends so they can carry on." He looked away from her. "I was once tasked with carrying a friend's heart, and I still do. Its' never an easy thing, is it?"
"No, but with every new year, their heart grows, and it enriches you if you're lucky." Rukia stated as she looked out the window at the snow. "The storm within one's self is like the raging winds out there. Beautiful and deadly; yet, refreshing and renewing. With death brings new life. Protection equals wisdom. Hearts grow because they learn to accept things they cannot change."
"For the heart is never more beautiful than a broken one learning to heal…" Kenshin stated. The two pair of violet eyes started at each other. Emotions Rukia never expect to feel flow through her.
Their moment was interrupted by a servant announcing, Byakuya. "Ah, Kenshin! Its lovely that you're still here! Would you like to stay for supper?" He asked as he analyzed the glaze between the couple.
Kenshin looked from Byakuya to Rukia. "I'm sorry, Captain Kuchiki. I promised my Uncle a visit." Violet glazes met each other again. "Thank you for a wonderful, enlightening time, Rukia. You are amazing." He stated.
Kenshin took his leave and bowed to Byakuya while he walked over to Rukia and placed a kiss on her hand. "Until another time, Queen." He whispered.
"See you around, Kenshin." Rukia replied as she watched the red-haired suitor leave.
Needless to say, dinner with Byakuya was going to be interesting after he noticed their exchange.
As always, thank you to my lovely readers for reading, reviewing, favoriting, and following my story!
So what you think of the new suitor? Would you like to see him again? He was inspired from Kenshin from Rurouni Kenshin/ Samurai X. My Kenshin isn't as goofy as the real one, but I like him! He's deep and thoughtful, which is a new speed for Rukia.
If you are curious, the Snow Geisha White Tea mentioned in the story is real! I bought mine from Teavana party because it reminded me of the Kuchikis! :D Yeah, I know it's a nerdy thing to do buying a tea based on that!
Bleachpower: Thank you for your review-short or not! I have 3 of you who regularly review, and I always look forward to what you have to say! As for Ichigo, yes was a fool! But I promise he'll be back!
That1person: I loved the all caps lock review! I'm glad you enjoyed your chapter!