Twisted Love
Before long, Rukia became pregnant with their first child. While Byakuya wasn't the type to openly display his emotions, being both an elite assassin and leader of the Kuchiki clan, occasionally, he was caught by his father casting slightly tender glances in Rukia's direction.
Soujun smiled inwardly, secure in the knowledge that he had made the right choice in selecting Rukia as Byakuya's wife. She possessed a strong character and sharp intellect that allowed her to navigate her husband's unpredictability and cunning.
Although, on the surface, it might have appeared that the couple had a loveless marriage, Soujun knew that over time, they had grown to 'love' each other.
Months passed, and Rukia gave birth to their son, Illumi. Byakuya held his son, attempting to assess the infant's potential. He could sense power within the tiny body but struggled to envision him as the clan's future leader.
Rukia gazed up at her husband, holding their son, and immediately detected his disappointment.
Byakuya handed the infant to Renji, who, as their butler, took on the responsibility of caring for the baby.
Renji cradled Rukia's child in his arms, treating him as if he were his own son. However, as the baby locked eyes with Renji with their piercing intensity, he realized that this infant harbored an extraordinary potential, perhaps even bordering on something monstrous.
To be continued...