The cold chill of early winter had settled over Karakura Town. Its inhabitants, buried in thick layers of clothing, still felt the numbing chill no matter how much they tried to protect themselves. Hirako Shinji, however, was immune to the cold. He had been this way for days, ever since they brough Hiyori back to the Warehouse after the Winter War battle.
Shinji felt like he had been living in a state of suspended animation ever since. Every moment felt like an eternity. He was so deeply entranced that the ticking of the clock was like a white noise in the background, and the days seemed to stretch on forever. Even the cold was only a distant whisper.
Unohana's words weighed heavily on his heart, an anchor of responsibility that refused to let go: "Whether she'll give up or not is something you people should know better than I." During that conversation, Unohana's gaze had lingered on Shinji, as if challenging him to defy the odds and ensure Hiyori's survival. He had willingly accepted that responsibility, fully aware that Hiyori's recovery was far from guaranteed. The thought of her giving up haunted him, and he remained steadfast by her side, determined to do whatever it took to ensure her well-being.
He sighed, his breath forming mist on the frost-covered windowpane. His gaze reluctantly shifted from the window to the figure of the sleeping girl, her form unmoving on his bed. It had been a couple of days, and in his eyes, there was no noticeable improvement in her condition. Hachi and Tessai, ever the optimists, provided regular updates on her vitals and any changes they observed. But for him, someone who longed for her to wake up, spit out an insult, or even deliver a trademark slap to his face, the solemn expression on her face held little meaning.
He abruptly stopped hearing her breath, and his panicked eyes snapped to her with deep concern, his body instinctively moving towards her to check if she was okay. To his immense relief, she was fine, and he realized he had been imagining things once again. Still, a heavy wave of guilt crashed over him every time he looked at Hiyori. He should have done something to stop her. Deep down, he had always known that she wouldn't be able to resist Aizen's taunts—after all, manipulation was Aizen's trademark.
He vividly remembered how he had warned her when he saw her shivering with hate. But mere words of caution weren't enough, not when it came to Aizen. He should have taken more decisive action, like grabbing her wrist or binding her with Kidō. He should have done so many things, but all those thoughts were irrelevant now.
As he reflected on the events, he couldn't shake the realization that both Gin and Aizen had probably planned this from the beginning. Even before the Espada had finished fighting, the cunning serpent was already trying to throw him off balance. Gin had deviously pointed out that the blonde Espada was about to harm Hiyori. Back then, he had barely paid it any mind, but now, with all the pieces in place, it was clear that Gin had been trying to get into his head through Hiyori. Her unprotected leap to attack Aizen had been like placing Hiyori on a silver platter for their enemy. The thought weighed heavily on Shinji's mind, and he couldn't help but feel responsible for what had transpired.
Since their return, Shinji had barely spoken to the others. He knew, deep down, that none of them blamed him. They were well aware of Hiyori's volatile nature and based on the conversation she had with Love on the roof, most of them had probably expected her to act recklessly and throw herself into danger. However, no one had anticipated the severity of her injuries. Despite his logical defense of his innocence, his heart and the hushed tones he overheard when they entered the warehouse pointed fingers of guilt in his direction.
If he could turn back the pendulum of time, he would have never struck up a conversation with the small, pigtailed girl Hikifune had brought in as a new recruit. She had arrived after just three years at the academy, rather than the usual six, to become the 8th seat of the 12th division. He shouldn't have bonded with her over the incompetence of the other squad members or poked fun at her small stature, calling her silly names to rile her up—or he could have simply ignored her altogether. If he had just avoided her, not befriended her, Hiyori would have had a peaceful life in Soul Society, possibly as an amazing vice-captain under some unsuspecting captain. She would have been safe, or at least as safe as a lieutenant could be. She wouldn't have been cursed and nearly killed, all because of him.
He knew he needed to let her go, to distance himself from her, because he had become the bane of her existence. But how could he walk away when all he wanted was to be with her always? He longed to care for her, to watch over her, to cuddle with her, to take her in his arms and make her his own. The internal struggle tore at his heart, leaving him feeling trapped in a web of conflicting emotions.
Sitting on the floor with his back against the wall, Shinji contemplated the minutes ticking by. Kisuke would probably be dropping by any moment now, likely using the excuse of bringing Tessai to check on Hiyori. The shop owner had refrained from uttering a single word to Shinji since his first visit to the Vizard warehouse. Instead, Kisuke had communicated his concerns through fleeting, disapproving glares.
For a long time, Shinji had been aware of the deep concern and feelings that Kisuke harbored for the small Vizard. He could still vividly remember Kisuke's agitated expression 110 years ago when the shop owner had practically flown into the captain's meeting, demanding to go find Hiyori after Mashiro's and Kensei's reiatsu had disappeared. Shinji could also recall the anger that had surged within him on that day. The 12th Division captain had admitted that he had sent his fukutaichou instead of handling the task himself. Shinji was thankful that the SouTachouchou had chosen him for the mission. He was willing to face any consequences, even charges of insubordination, to ensure Hiyori's safety. He refused to be as careless as Kisuke had been, leaving Hiyori alone and vulnerable.
The irony of the current situation wasn't lost on Shinji. He had found himself in a scenario where he had left Hiyori mortally wounded by Aizen once again, and during that critical moment, he had just stood there, utterly shocked and helpless instead of heeding his own words and taking action.
So, every time Kisuke visited the warehouse, Shinji could feel the weight of the shop owner's gray eyes boring into him, silently lecturing him for not taking better care of the blonde girl.
As he had imagined, the door of his room opened around 11 am, revealing Kisuke, Tessai, Lisa, and, for the first time, Yoruichi. They had come to check on Hiyori's condition, and as other days, Lisa provided an update on any changes from the day before. All eyes were focused on the small girl, except for the feline ones of the Shihouin princess, who was regarding Shinji with mild interest.
At Lisa's final words, Tessai's stern voice cut through the air. "I think it's time," he declared with an air of finality, and his hands began to move, creating yellow symbols that hovered above Hiyori's head. Kisuke, with his eyes still obscured by the shadows of his hat, provided an explanation to the Vizards in the room.
"After a serious injury like the one Hiyori-san suffered, Hachi and Unohana created a technique that combines different types of kaido. Essentially, it keeps the person unconscious to allow their body to build up enough reiatsu to heal itself," Kisuke explained. "Tessai-san is going to remove the seals and allow Hiyori-san to wake up. It may work, and it may not. Please keep your expectations to a minimum."
As Tessai continued to manipulate the symbols above Hiyori's head, a faint, golden glow enveloped her unconscious form. It was a delicate process, one that required precision and care. The room was filled with an air of anticipation as everyone held their breath, hoping for a positive outcome. Minutes passed, each one feeling like an eternity, until finally, a subtle change occurred. Hiyori's brows furrowed in a slight frown, her eyelids fluttering as if she was struggling to wake up from a deep sleep. A collective sigh of relief swept through the room as her movements became more pronounced.
Shinji couldn't tear his eyes away from her. He watched intently as Hiyori's eyelids slowly lifted, revealing her dazed, yet conscious, golden eyes. Her gaze darted around the room, taking in the faces of those gathered. Confusion clouded her features as she tried to make sense of her surroundings.
Lisa's voice echoed from the doorway as she called for the others. One by one, the Vizards filed into Shinji's room, their expressions a mix of relief and concern.
Rose stepped in with a reassuring smile, closely followed by Love, who offered a nod of encouragement. Kensei, usually gruff and unyielding, wore a rare expression of genuine worry. Mashiro hopped in with her usual energetic enthusiasm, though it was tempered by the gravity of the situation. Hachigen, the calm and composed gigant, entered quietly, his eyes focused on Hiyori.
The Vizards gathered around Hiyori's bed, forming a protective circle. Kisuke remained by Hiyori's side, keeping a watchful eye on her. He knew the significance of this moment and the uncertainty that lay ahead. They had all been through too much to take anything for granted.
The former 12th Division Captain leaned in closer to blonde girl and spoke gently, "Hiyori-san, can you hear me?" His voice was calm and reassuring.
As Hiyori stirred and attempted to speak, the Vizards held their breath, eagerly awaiting her first words. However, her voice was weak, and the words came out as faint murmurs. She seemed disoriented and confused, trying to make sense of her surroundings.
Amidst the hushed whispers of encouragement from her fellow Vizards, no one noticed Shinji quietly slipping out of the room. He moved swiftly and silently, leaving behind the emotional turmoil that had consumed him in that moment. As he reached Hiyori's actual room, he closed and locked the door behind him, needing some time and space to collect his thoughts and emotions.
Inside the room, Shinji leaned against the door, his heart heavy with the weight of everything that had transpired. He knew that Hiyori was awake, and the others were there to support her. Still, he couldn't bear to face her just yet, not when he felt so responsible for her injuries and suffering.
He needed to find a way to come to terms with his guilt, to understand his own feelings, and to prepare himself for the inevitable conversation that would follow. Locked away in Hiyori's room, Shinji grappled with his emotions, hoping to find some clarity amidst the turmoil.
Out of nowhere, the window on Hiyori's room opened with a thud, and Yoruichi gracefully entered the room, her golden eyes twinkling mischievously as she took in Shinji's guilt-ridden expression.
"Hiding, are we?" the cat/woman teased, her voice laced with amusement. She sauntered closer, her violet hair flowing like a dark waterfall, and leaned against the wall with a knowing grin leaving the window still open and filling the room with a chilled atmosphere. "You look like you've just been caught red-handed."
Shinji let out a long-suffering sigh, his shoulders slumping as he tried to muster a response. "Well, you know, I just needed a little... alone time to think."
Yoruichi's laughter rang out like tinkling bells. "Alone time, huh? Seems more like you were having a pity party in here." She gave him a playful nudge with her elbow. "Come on, Shinji, it's not the end of the world. Literally, that is what we all avoided last week."
The blonde man couldn't help but crack a small smile at her teasing. Yoruichi had a way of lightening the mood, even in the darkest of times. "Yeah, yeah, I know," he replied, shaking his head. "But you caught me at a bad moment."
She winked and playfully poked his cheek. "Well, that's what friends are for, right? To catch you when you fall, or in your case, when you start wallowing."
The silence between the two former captains remained, not too tense but still carrying a hint of unspoken emotions.
"How mad is Kisuke at me?" Shinji finally broke the silence, his voice filled with concern.
Yoruichi gave him an understanding look. "Pretty mad," she admitted with a sigh. "But he also understands that you had nothing to do with his anger. Don't worry; I already kicked some sense into him too. Kisuke has a way of blaming himself for things that you simply can't control. I bet you can relate."
He chuckled.
Once again, Yoruichi's feline eyes narrowed slightly as she turned her attention back to Shinji. "How mad at yourself are you?" she asked, her tone soft yet probing.
Shinji's expression turned more serious as he contemplated the question. "I'm furious with myself," he admitted, his voice laced with self-reproach. "I should have done more to protect Hiyori. I knew Aizen's manipulative tactics, and I should have seen it coming. But I let my guard down, and she paid the price for my negligence."
Yoruichi regarded him with a knowing look. "Shinji, you can't shoulder all the blame for what happened. Hiyori made her own choices, and Aizen is a master manipulator. We've all faced situations where we wish we could have done things differently."
His gaze remained fixed on the ground, his guilt still weighing heavily on him. "I know that logically, but it doesn't stop me from feeling responsible."
"Just remember, Shinji, you're not alone in this. We're here for you, and Hiyori will need your support. Also, if you keep mopping like this, I will take a page on Hiyori's book and kick you senseless all the way to Monday."
Shinji rolled his eyes, but there was a warmth in his expression that hadn't been there before. Yoruichi had a knack for cutting through his self-doubt and guilt, and he was grateful for it. "Thanks, Yoruichi. You always know how to make me feel better."
With a reassuring pat on his shoulder, she headed back to the window, disappearing into the cold night air as suddenly as she had arrived. "That's what I'm here for, Shinji. Now, go back to your lovely lady. You are the person that is looking forward to seeing the most, I am sure."
.
.
His steps felt heavy as he made his way toward his room, each footfall laden with anticipation and a touch of trepidation. The sound of Mashiro's animated voice filled the air, echoing throughout the room. As his hand grasped the doorknob, a surge of emotions coursed through him. He pushed the door open, and what he saw took his breath away.
Hiyori lay on the bed, her tousled hair framing her head like a golden halo. She was in a half-sitting, half-reclining position, her weight distributed carefully to accommodate her recently healed spine. Her eyes, still heavy with sleep, held a hint of suspicion as she regarded Kisuke, who was in the middle of addressing her. But the moment her gaze landed on Shinji, everything else seemed to fade into the background.
Their eyes met, and it was as if time had stood still. Ochre eyes locked onto coffee-colored orbs in a silent exchange that spoke volumes. It was a moment of recognition, of shared history, and of emotions too deep for words. It felt like the first time they had ever truly seen each other, unburdened by their usual banter and defenses.
There, in the quiet of the room, the world outside faded away, and all that mattered was the connection between them. Shinji's heart swelled with a mixture of relief, affection, and longing. He had missed her more than he cared to admit during those agonizing days when she had been unconscious and fighting for her life.
And now, as he stood in the doorway, the weight of his guilt began to lift. Seeing her awake, looking at him with that familiar spark of defiance, reminded him of the resilient spirit that had drawn him to her in the first place.
Shinji couldn't help but smile, a rare display of genuine warmth and relief, as he took a step closer to her. It was a silent message that said more than any words ever could: "Welcome back, Hiyori."
"Kisuke," she demanded in a voice that mirrored her usual characteristic tone. She gestured towards something in the room and then pointed at Shinji. Without warning, a geta sandal came hurtling through the air, narrowly missing Shinji's face. It clattered loudly against the wall before landing on the floor.
"Don't get too comfortable, Baldy. I've still got a shoe with your name on it" she declared, her expression a mix of annoyance and amusement as she locked eyes with him.
Shinji couldn't help but chuckle, his usual lightheartedness slowly returning in the presence of these familiar faces. He bent over and picked up the sandal that had nearly collided with him and gave it back to Kisuke with a knowing look.
"Well, it's nice to see some things haven't changed," he quipped, referring to Hiyori's penchant for throwing shoes at him, even if this time she had a little help.
Hiyori, now sitting up more comfortably, shot him a mischievous grin. "You bet your ass they haven't, Baldy."
Lisa, who had been observing the exchange with a bemused expression, chimed in, "So, Shinji, you finally got your head out of your ass, huh?"
Shinji rolled his eyes playfully. "Well, let's just say I had some motivation."
Kisuke Urahara stood with his characteristic grin beneath his hat, his eyes shimmering with a hint of satisfaction. He had been observing Hiyori and Shinji's interaction closely for literal years now, and it pleased him to see them finally growing closer. He believed that their bond was vital not just for their personal happiness but for the unity of their group. "I'm glad to see you two are getting along so well."
After a few moments of watching the exchange, Kisuke realized that it was time for the others to leave, allowing Hiyori and Shinji the privacy they needed. He cleared his throat, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. "Well, I believe it's time for us to give Hiyori-san some space to rest. You've all done well to lift her spirits, but now she needs her rest."
With his guidance, the others in the room rose to their feet. There was an unspoken understanding that this was the moment to exit and let Hiyori and Shinji be alone.
Kisuke approached the Vizard leader with a gentle yet firm tone, speaking low enough not to be heard by the others. "Shinji, my friend, I know you want to be with her, but don't keep her awake for too long. She needs her strength."
The former captain nodded and followed the shop owner to the door, closing it as Kisuke left.
"Looks like it's just us now," he said softly, his gaze filled with affection. "How are you feeling, Hiyori?"
The girl's eyes met Shinji's, and a small smile tugged at the corner of her lips. She shifted slightly on the bed, mindful of her injuries, and replied, "Like I've been cut in half and stitched back together." Her voice held a mixture of sarcasm and exhaustion, but there was a glint of her usual feistiness in her eyes.
Shinji chuckled softly, his heart feeling lighter than it had in days. "Well, you do have a talent for stating the obvious," he teased, reaching out to gently brush a strand of hair away from her face.
There was a brief silence between them, a moment of unspoken emotions and shared relief. Shinji had been through a rollercoaster of emotions during Hiyori's recovery, and now that she was awake, he couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
"Hiyori," he began, his voice more serious now, "I want you to know that I'll always be here for you. I should have been more careful during that battle, and I'm sorry for what happened to you." His eyes held a sincerity that was rare for him to express openly.
Hiyori's expression softened, and she gently poked his cheek with her index finger. "Quit with the sappy stuff, Baldy. You're lucky I'm too tired to smack you right now," she remarked, her tone carrying a hint of affection. "I don't want to hear your idiotic 'everything is my fault' arguments, at least not at the moment."
Shinji smiled and leaned closer, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Get some rest, Hiyori. You've earned it." With that, he settled back in his chair, keeping a watchful eye on her as she closed her eyes.
"Hage."
"Go to sleep, idiot."
She insisted, "Shinji," she fixed her honey-colored eyes on him, her gaze piercing. "Have you eaten, showered, or slept in the last couple of days?" The concern in her voice was unmistakable.
Silence hung in the air for a moment as Shinji hesitated, unable to meet her gaze. His exhaustion was apparent, but he didn't want to admit it. Hiyori could see right through him, though.
"Get out," she insisted, her tone firm. "Go do that, you disgusting asshole."
Shinji sighed and ran a hand through his disheveled hair. "Stop yelling, you idiot. You're still healing," he chided gently. "You can boss me around when you're better."
Hiyori huffed, clearly frustrated by Shinji's stubbornness. "You're such a pain in the ass, you know that?" She shifted slightly on the bed, wincing at the discomfort her movement caused. "Just do what you have to do, okay?"
Shinji nodded. "Okay, I will, Hiyori. Now get some rest. I'll be right here when you wake up."
With a begrudging acceptance of his words, Hiyori closed her eyes, settling back into his bed. Shinji watched over her for a while longer, his eyes filled with a mix of concern and affection. As her breathing steadied and she drifted into a peaceful sleep, he finally allowed himself to relax, knowing that, for now, they were both safe and on the path to recovery.
.
.
As the room bathed in the soft glow of late afternoon sunlight, Shinji stirred from his light slumber, his senses gradually returning as he became aware of the room's ambiance. He suddenly felt something warm against his hand. He looked down and realized Hiyori had placed her hand in his. It was a small, simple gesture, but it spoke volumes. Shinji couldn't help but smile as he gently squeezed her hand. With Hiyori by his side, he felt a sense of peace and hope that he hadn't felt in a long time.
He shifted his gaze to Hiyori, only to find her lying there, her honey-colored eyes fixed on the ceiling, wearing a contemplative expression.
His heart skipped a beat as he observed her lost in thought. It was an uncommon sight, one that made him wonder about the thoughts running through her mind. Shinji knew Hiyori was a complex individual, often hiding her true feelings behind a tough exterior. Seeing her like this, vulnerable and deep in introspection, was a rare glimpse to a side of her he didn't often witness.
Without realizing it, he found himself captivated by the moment, his own contemplation mirroring hers.
As he lay there, watching her with a mix of curiosity and affection, Shinji realized that their relationship had taken a significant turn. Something unspoken had shifted, leaving an uncharted path ahead of them. It was a realization that filled him with both hope and uncertainty, but one thing was clear—he was willing to navigate this new territory alongside her, no matter where it led.
"Are you okay?" Shinji's voice broke through the stillness, carrying with it his evident concern for Hiyori. His words were gentle as he addressed her, trying to gauge her well-being.
"Yeah," Hiyori replied, her voice carrying a mix of emotions that she couldn't quite conceal. "I just didn't want to wake you." Her response was brief, but it held a weight that spoke of her inner turmoil.
Shinji gave her a small, reassuring smile, his grip on her hand tightening slightly as if afraid she might pull away. "You didn't wake me, Hiyori. I just nodded off for a bit. How are you feeling? Do you need something? Are you in pain? I can go and fetch Hachi."
She shook her head ever so slightly, her stubbornness showing. "Stop babying me, I am fine. I already told you," she replied, her tone carrying a hint of frustration. But beneath it, there was also a sense of gratitude. "Just thinking about stuff."
Hiyori's gaze shifted from the ceiling to meet Shinji's eyes for a brief moment before returning to the ceiling. "Thanks for being here, Shinji," she said, her voice softer now, laced with a touch of vulnerability. "And, you know, for saving my sorry ass back there."
Shinji replied, his humility evident, "You should be thanking Unohana Taichou, Kisuke, Hachi, Tessai. I didn't do anything, Hiyori."
Her response carried a hint of melancholy. "You caught me. This is the second time," she mused, her voice tinged with sadness. "Last time, you had me like a sack of rice on your hip." She let the statement hang in the air for a moment before adding, "I do not remember much; it's coming back to me in bits and pieces. But I do remember you. Your stupid flat face and you calling my name."
Shinji remained silent, unable to find the right words. There was a part of him that wished he didn't remember the entirety of what had happened. The events of that day had been a complete and utter disaster.
Hiyori continued, her voice softening with regret. "I apologized," she confessed, her eyes closed as she intertwined her fingers with his. "I said I was sorry, do you remember? I was, I am. Sorry."
"Hiyori..." Shinji began, but she cut him off.
"I heard you, I did," she said, her voice heavy with remorse. "I just couldn't stop. He called you Hirako Taichou, and I just saw red."
"Hiyori..."
Shinji's voice held a mix of understanding and empathy as he tried to reassure her. "I know you're sorry, Hiyori. And I understand why you couldn't stop yourself back there." He gently stroked her hand with his thumb, his touch offering comfort and support.
Hiyori's eyes remained closed, and her grip on his hand tightened. Her breathing had steadied, and she seemed more at ease as they shared this moment of honesty.
"I don't blame you for what happened," Shinji continued softly. "Aizen's got a way of getting under people's skin, making them lose their cool. It's not your fault. At the end of the day, we are all safe. No one died, we are all safe."
He paused for a moment, his gaze fixed on her, searching for any signs of distress. "But, Hiyori, I need you to promise me something," the tone she recognized as his captain tone showing on his voice.
She cracked open one eye to peer at him, a curious expression on her face.
"Promise me that you'll take care of yourself," he urged, his voice filled with sincerity. "Promise that you won't put yourself in harm's way like that again. I can't bear to see you hurt, Hiyori."
Hiyori couldn't help but chuckle softly at his remark. "I think you're getting too sappy in your old age, Hage," she teased, her playful tone a welcome change from the heavy conversation they'd been having.
Shinji, however, maintained his serious expression. "I mean it, Hiyori. I'm not playing," he reiterated, his voice laced with genuine concern. "Seeing you almost die twice is more than I can bear in a lifetime."
Her smile softened, "I know, Shinji."
She removed her hand from his, and he immediately felt the chill of the cold weather on his own. Her words weighed on him as she spoke, her tone carrying a mix of frustration and genuine concern. "You're making me promise things, Shinji, and it's not fair," she began, turning her gaze toward him, frustrated. "You have to promise something too. I don't want to see that moronic look on your face anymore. Take it off."
Shinji blinked in confusion. "What look?"
"The 'everything is my fault' look," she scowled, her expression stern. "I can see it all written on your ugly mug. 'Hiyori was hurt because of me, Aizen almost killed everyone because of me, the universe almost got messed up because of me'. Stop being so self-centered, you imbecile. None of this is your fault. Just wait until I'm better, and I'm going to kick your ass like I did last time."
In fact, the "last time" she mentioned dated back to a period when Shinji had been sulking for what felt like ages, consumed by guilt over the Hollowfication incident. During that time, Hiyori's frustration had boiled over, resulting in a rather physical demonstration of her feelings. She had unleashed her fury, breaking his nose, fracturing three of his ribs, and even causing a collapsed lung. It served as a vivid reminder that Hiyori had zero tolerance for his extended spells of self-pity and remorse.
He couldn't help but chuckle at the memory. "Second time in the day a girl threatens to kick my ass. My popularity is definitely coming back."
Hiyori narrowed her eyes at him. "Who's not being serious now?"
Suddenly, she moved too abruptly, and pain flashed across her features. In an instant, Shinji was there, practically hovering over her.
"Stop moving so much, you're still hurt, idiot," he scolded gently, his concern evident in his eyes.
He was close, closer than she was comfortable with. He helped her lay down slowly, adjusting the pillows around her and handling her with a delicate touch, as if she were a fragile porcelain doll. His eyes never left her, and the memory of how he had caught her earlier, their bodies touching, sent a shiver down her spine.
Without hesitation, and seemingly without conscious thought, he moved his hand to cup her face. It was at that moment that Shinji found himself questioning why he had ever teased her about her looks. Sarugaki Hiyori, even in this state of recovery, appeared breathtaking. Her full lips, petite nose, and large, molten golden eyes held a captivating allure. Unable to resist any longer, he bent down, closing the small distance between them, and pressed a tender kiss to her lips.
It was over way too soon.
As Shinji pulled back slightly, he met her gaze with a mix of emotions swirling in his eyes. He didn't need words to convey what he felt at that moment. It was a silent promise, a connection that ran deeper than the surface. They had been through so much together, and this kiss represented not just their past but also the future they envisioned.
Shinji understood that when the time was right, when Hiyori had fully recovered, they would resume where they had left off the night before the battle—the exchange of kisses and touches. For now, though, as she focused on her recovery, he would exercise patience and restraint.
Although a part of him still struggled with the desire to be with her and the lingering fear that it might be safer if he wasn't, the sheer intensity of her gaze rooted him in place. Those feelings of needing distance dissipated as soon as she looked at him.
Hiyori's eyes held a hint of surprise, but it quickly gave way to something softer, something that mirrored the emotions in Shinji's gaze. She reached out, her fingers lightly tracing the lines of his face. It was a gentle, intimate gesture that spoke volumes.
Their peaceful moment was abruptly disrupted by the sound of Hachi's voice coming from outside the room. He announced his intention to enter and check on Hiyori. As he made his way into the room, Lisa, Mashiro and Love followed closely behind. In a humorous display of Vizards being Vizards, they promptly kicked Shinji out while playfully asserting their dominance over the space.
Shinji protested loudly, exclaiming, "This is my room!"
Lisa, with her usual assertiveness, simply replied, "Tough!" She locked the door with a mischievous smirk, leaving Hiyori to smile at the playful chaos unfolding around her.
"Go and do your own shit for once, Baldy," Hiyori's voice sounded muffled through the locked door, her playful tone underscoring the light-hearted banter that had taken over the room. Shinji sighed and decided a long shower followed by a meal would buy him enough time for the new occupants of the room to finish with Hiyori.
.
Inside the room, Hiyori narrowed her eyes at Lisa, Mashiro and Love, while Hachi did some movements with his hands to check on the girl.
"How bad was it?" Hiyori asked Lisa, her voice tinged with concern, though she still avoided making direct eye contact, her lips pressed into a hard line.
Lisa exchanged a meaningful glance with Mashiro, silently acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "It was pretty bad," Lisa replied, her tone somber. "In fact, he took it worse than he did when we went through the hollowfication process."
Mashiro added, "There were moments when Kensei had to physically drag him out of this room by the collar. He refused to sleep, eat, or even leave your side. He was just here, in silence, waiting for you to wake up."
Hiyori let out a loud sigh, her shoulders slumping. The weight of her actions and the impact it had on Shinji weighed heavily on her. She had been so blinded by her anger and thirst for revenge that she hadn't considered how her actions would affect her friends, especially Shinji.
"I forgot about Gin." Hiyori's expression darkened as she absorbed the information. "I couldn't contain myself any longer."
Lisa nodded in understanding. "It was a traumatic experience for all of us."
Love chimed in, trying to provide some perspective. "Honestly, Hiyori, even if you had remembered him, Aizen wiped the floor with all of us. The only one who held out a bit longer was Shinji. But in the end, even he was badly hurt."
"Fucking Baldy," Hiyori muttered under her breath. Love wasn't entirely sure if that statement was directed at Shinji or Aizen, but he wisely chose not to press the matter further. It was clear that Hiyori was still processing everything that had happened.
Hachi finished his examination of Hiyori and stepped back. "Well, everything seems to be healing nicely," he remarked, his voice calm and reassuring. "Your reiatsu is stabilizing, and the wounds are closing up as expected. Just keep resting and recovering, and you should be back on your feet soon." Hiyori nodded; her expression slightly less tense than before. She knew she had a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally.
Before Lisa could leave, Hiyori stopped her with a determined look in her eyes, calling her name, her voice soft but filled with sincerity.
Lisa turned back to face the recovering vizard, her expression curious. "What is it?"
Hiyori hesitated for a moment, her gaze locked onto Lisa's turquoise irises, and then she spoke in a hushed tone, "I need your help with something, but you have to promise me one thing. You can't tease me about it, and you can't use it for blackmail later. I'm asking you because I can't ask anyone else."
Lisa raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Hiyori's request. "You can't ask Shinji?"
"No," Hiyori replied, shaking her head and starting to blush. "Because it's about him."
With a thoughtful look, Lisa got up and walked over to the door, locking it securely in Mashiro's face. She then took a seat in the chair that Shinji usually occupied, giving Hiyori her full attention. This conversation had been a long time coming, and Lisa had anticipated it for years. She had seen the signs, even back when they lived in Soul Society, and it was clear that both Hiyori and Shinji had strong feelings for each other. She had hoped that living together as Vizards might finally push one of them to act on those feelings, but it seemed they were both too stubborn to admit the truth.
Now, with everything that had happened, perhaps this was the moment when they would finally open up to each other.
"What is it?" Lisa repeated, her curiosity growing.
Hiyori fidgeted with the bedsheet, clearly struggling to find the right words. This wasn't going as smoothly as Lisa had hoped, but she was determined to help these two stubborn idiots confront their feelings.
The older woman sighed and decided to be more direct. "Hiyori... After everything that happened in the battle, I'm sure you know now, right? You know how Shinji feels about you."
To her surprise, Hiyori nodded. It was a step in the right direction, at least.
Lisa smiled softly and continued, "He loves you, — I honestly think he always has. He's been waiting for years to tell you, but he never found the courage."
"I-I know that" Hiyori replied in a hushed tone, her cheeks tinged with a hint of pink.
Ok, that was new information, the brunette raised an eyebrow, mildly surprised by Hiyori's uncharacteristic reaction. "So, if you know, what exactly do you need from me?" she asked, her tone dry as usual.
Hiyori's breath grew restless as she poured out her feelings. "What do I do? I don't know what to do. How do you treat someone who is willing to give you so much, and you have given so little? I feel like I'm going to burst into flames when he's here, and when he leaves, I feel like my soul is not with me. I don't know what to do or what to say. I-I just... I..."
Lisa interrupted her gently, "You don't know how to tell him you feel the same?"
"I already kind of did, before we went, the night before the fight, but Gods, I can't function! I hate this!"
"Don't get to upset; you know you're still recovering," Lisa reassured her, adjusting her glasses. "I can't help you too much; I'm no expert on love. Hell, I don't think anyone in our social circle is. I can only give you my opinion on the matter."
Hiyori looked at Lisa with hope, as if expecting her to have all the answers.
"This dance you both have been doing... It's been long enough. Even if it's hard, you should tell him straight to his face. Just tell him what you want. He does whatever you say anyway; the chances of him denying you anything are zero."
Hiyori gave a deep breath and leaned on her pillow.
Lisa offered a comforting smile. "Take your time, Hiyori. It's a big step, but I think it's worth it. You both deserve to be happy." With those words of encouragement, Lisa got up from her chair and headed toward the door. "I'll make sure no one bothers you for a while. Just think about what you want to say, and when you're ready, you'll know." She unlocked the door and exited, leaving Hiyori alone to contemplate her feelings.
Within two short minutes of Lisa's departure, Shinji, appearing refreshed from a recent bath and less fatigued, made his way back into the room where Hiyori had been recovering.
"Everything alright, little monkey?" Shinji inquired as he entered the room. "Hachi said you're making progress."
Hiyori nodded and tried to give him a reassuring smile, despite the lingering discomfort. "Yeah, I'm doing better," she replied. "Just trying to get back on my feet as soon as I can."
Shinji approached her bedside, his face softening with concern. "You know, you don't have to rush things," he said, his gaze unwaveringly fixed on her. "Just take your time and focus on healing. I'll be right here." He gently pulled a chair closer to her bed. "Now, tell me, what did Lisa want to talk to you about?" he asked, his curiosity piqued. "She seemed pretty serious when she left. Did you ask her for any of her 'not to touch' magazines? You should know better, Hiyori. Not even the 'I got cut in half' excuse would be enough for her to give you those."
Hiyori's golden eyes found her hands, and she wiggled her fingers and toes just to reassure herself that her body was recovering. As she pondered the recent events, a realization hit her. Shinji had kissed her before everyone came in, and afterward, he acted as though nothing had happened. Was this to be their new normal? Recalling their pre-battle interactions, she couldn't help but wonder if that's what they both desired. She kissed him, and then she ran away. He kissed her, and she woke up in his bed, behaving as if nothing was different.
However, Hiyori wasn't entirely sure if this was the path she wanted to tread. With Shinji's flirtatious tendencies, would he continue to pursue other women in her presence, collecting first loves and breaking her heart in the process? Lisa's words echoed in her ears: "Just tell him what you want."
"Shinji…" The words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of Hiyori's hesitation. She had never found it so challenging to voice anything else in her life; it was as though the emotions were too raw, too profound to put into words. "bewithme," she finally managed to whisper, so low and fast that he didn't catch it at first.
"Ah?" he responded, genuinely not hearing her.
Frustration welled up within her, and she let it out in a burst of words, her voice rising in anger. "I said BE WITH ME, IDIOT BALD ASS! What type of moron makes a lady repeat herself?" Her shouting left her breathless, and she realized that her caretakers, Hachi and Tessai, might soon scold her for overexerting herself.
But then something unexpected happened. Shinji began to laugh, not just a quick chuckle, but a full-blown, tear-inducing laughter that reverberated through the room. Hiyori felt like her heart had been cut into pieces, as though three Ichimaru Gins had done the damage, not just one.
This motherfucker was laughing at her declaration.
Shinji gazed at her with a soft, understanding expression. "You moron," he said gently. "I was planning on talking to you about it. I just... you know, I was going to wait at least one more day until you were better, but I guess as always, I underestimated how much of an impulsive little thing you are." His affectionate tone hinted at the deep fondness he held for her.
"I fucking hate you," she seethed, her scowl deepening into a pout. "I open my heart, and you laugh at me."
He sat at the edge of the bed, taking her small hands in his, "I wasn't laughing at you or your words, Hiyori. I found the situation funny." he admitted, his laughter subsiding.
"That's the same thing, Shinji!"
"No, it's not." Shinji gently pressed his hand to her chin and lifted her face to meet his eyes. "I wanted to wait until you're better because I want to hold you, Hiyori. I want to touch you and kiss you, but right now, we need to be mindful of your recovery. I want to be with you, my little Hiyori."
"Do not call me little, I am an adult! I am not a child!"
"I am aware you're not a child, but you cannot deny you are little, Chibi."
Her cheeks reddened, and she tried to pull away from his touch, but he cupped her face with both of his hands. "I'm going to kiss you, Hiyori. Once you get better, I want to do much more than that."
"Get bent, Shinji. If you think I'm going to let you…" Her voice dripped with irritation as she trailed off, frustration evident in her eyes. "Ugh! You're infuriating! You're so lucky I am dying."
"You're not dying."
"I was!"
"You were."
She paused, their faces inches apart, their breaths mingling. "Do you want me to stop? This is your last out. If I kiss you right now, you're mine. There's no turning this car around."
Their eyes locked, intense, and unyielding, and she took a deep breath, her chest rising with a mix of fear and anticipation. "Be with me."
And he kissed her.
Shinji felt like his heart might burst with happiness as their lips finally met. It was a soft, tender kiss, filled with a mixture of longing and affection. Hiyori responded with equal passion, her fingers lightly grazing his cheeks as they shared their first real kiss.
As they pulled away, Shinji couldn't help but smile. "I'm with you, Hiyori," he murmured, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I plan on staying with you for a long, long time."
AN:
Long time, huh? You traitor 😢😢😢😢.
Next chapter, bring in the chocolate and the tissues. We all know what's coming, except poor little Hiyori. The idea of writing that part kind of crushes my heart into so many pieces. I've already tackled that particular fight in 'Glassy,' and I'm really proud of how that discussion/fight turned out. So I anticipate the new one is going to be difficult and painful to write.
Some usual housekeeping:
Man, this chapter was so hard to write. I understand now why I did what I did for 'Glassy' and '17 Ways.' Damn making them come together with their own thoughts and mental problems was so hard. But hopefully, that is done.
By the way, the paragraph that mentioned Aizen and Gin planned Hiyori's injury is totally canon. 'Even before the Espada had finished fighting, the cunning serpent was already trying to throw him off balance. Gin had deviously pointed out that the blonde Espada was about to harm Hiyori.' I was rewatching and THIS HAPPENS. After Kyoraku wins against Coyote Stark, there is a very short scene of Shinji fighting Gin before Aizen goes to Halibel, and Gin makes the comment. It looks like an afterthought, but I tell you, Aizen was the original Shiyori shipper. Must have been all those times where they bickered with each other while he was a Lieutenant.
I think I mentioned before, protective!Urahara Kisuke is my jam. Canon SHOULD have brought more Hiyori/Kisuke interactions and shenanigans (in a platonic Captain/Lieutenant relationship). He is obviously irrationally mad at Shinji for the incident in the Winter War, but he gets it after a while. This was no one's fault, except for Gin and Aizen.
I recently watched the Aizen vs. everyone fight, and man, 'whipping the floor' is not an accurate enough description of what happened. This man could have murdered every captain and lieutenant there several times and he decided to let them live and watch from the floor. His powers pre-butterfly were unrealistic. Also, his kido control, OMG, chef's kiss.
Last thing, I am aware that realistically speaking, Hiyori would not be able to do everything she did on the day that she woke up, but for the sake of the story, let's imagine she can.
That's all for me now. I've already written half of the next chapter, and I'm hoping I can finish it soon. Be prepared for the worst because you know Kubo was mean, and he divided these two crazy kids.