VII. Camaraderie
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Rukia stared at her reflection in the mirror, her hands gripping at the edges of the bathroom sink. The girl in the mirror who stared back, looked put together. The makeup she had on was light; mascara-curled eyelashes and red-lined lips offering just a touch of colour to her pale complexion. Her dark hair was curled at the ends, teasingly framing her face.
She inhaled sharply, willing herself to keep calm.
It was going to be alright. It wasn't like she had not attended the parties that Byakuya hosted before.
Rukia turned on the tap, letting the icy cold water run over her hands. She focused on the sound of the running water, imagining that the water washing her anxiety away. She cast a critical eye over the dress she had on, half-turning so she can see more of it in the mirror.
The sleeveless dress she had on was white, tapered at the waist and its hemline cut modestly, stopping past her knees. It was of a simpler design, almost plain with the lack of frills. There was no plunging neckline, no delicate laces that she would have spent the evening agonizing at the thought of accidentally ruining the material. Thin ribbon-like straps hung over her shoulders, hugging her flat chest, molding the dress to her body. The pale skin of her thigh peeked through the slit cut at the side.
Rukia's frown deepened, worrying for the umpteenth time that she would appear underdressed for the occasion, embarrassing herself and Nii-sama. Her preference for dresses with simpler designs and clean silhouette was not a sentiment shared by all members of the Kuchiki family and it has been a while since she attended one of these parties.
In fact, she couldn't even remember when she brought this dress. With this last-minute invite, she didn't have much time to go shopping and had to make do with one of her older dresses gathering dust at the back of her closet.
Rukia tugged at the hem of the dress, smoothing at the back of it. The feel of satin underneath her fingertips was cool. She had not worn the dress after purchasing it years ago. No doubt she would have for the purpose of attending one of the events like tonight, but she never got the chance, for one reason or another.
The fit of the dress was tighter than she remembered.
The loud knocking at her door interrupted her thoughts. Twisting the tap off, Rukia gave herself one last glance at the mirror, flicking her signature stray bang away. She forced herself to put on a smile as she carefully slid her pearl barette into her dark hair, pinning it to the side.
She was ready to face the music.
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"Coming!"
"Finally! What took you so long—"
Ichigo's look of surprise showed when the door to Rukia's room swung open to reveal her in all her five feet glory. The heels she had on added a few inches to her. She was nearly past his shoulders now. He opened his mouth to tease her about reaching new heights with them, but no sound came from him.
Dark eyes peered through sooty eyelashes to glance upwards at him. Rukia moved her body past the threshold of the door, turning to shut the door behind her and Ichigo nearly choked when he saw her back.
Smoky mascara and very kissable red lips aside, Rukia was a vision in white. That dress she had on was a weapon licensed to kill. She's a murderess-in-the-making and she didn't even know it.
It was incredibly rude to stare. That, he knew; but he couldn't bring his eyes to look away. The slinky white dress Rukia had on clung to her curves. Sure, he knew the woman had an ass but with that dress on her—
Ichigo bit at the inside of his cheek, half-imagining he was sinking his teeth into something else instead. She was a peach- juicy and sweet. The glimpse of bare skin showing through the slit of her dress was tantalizing. Ichigo couldn't help but wonder about the feel and suppleness of her skin under his fingertips; imagining how it would feel to have her legs wrapped around his waist and eyes that shine like stars staring deeply into his own.
Ichigo had to remind himself to keep breathing. There was a rush of blood in his ears. His heartbeat thumped like thunder and his mouth was dry as a desert. What were those things that he kept by his side— right, what was he supposed to do with his hands?
Rukia cocked her head in confusion over his sudden stillness. With his mouth slightly gaping and eyes unabashedly staring at her, she couldn't help but shift uncomfortably under Ichigo's gaze. Already feeling self-conscious, her eyes flitted to the pair of silver stilettos she had, her lips curling into a frown. She remembered his reaction to her outfit on their first 'date'. She was still mourning the loss of her favourite pair of heels.
"Is there something wrong?"
Ichigo gulped. "N-No. Y-You look g-good."
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Good enough to eat.
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No! Shut up brain!
Bad Ichigo!
Ichigo almost slapped a hand on his own mouth. He didn't even know where that thought came from! He swore that he wasn't a pervert. Under Rukia's look of concern, he tugged at the collar of his shirt, clearing his throat loudly.
"I-It's the heat."
Rukia arched an eyebrow at the poor excuse he gave, but decided not to push. Maybe Ichigo was just nervous. She didn't peg him as a social person. Maybe him behaving out of sorts like that was just him trying to mask his nervousness in front of her. It was probably a pride thing, Rukia decided. Ichigo didn't seem like the sort who would let people in easily either.
Letting others know what was really bothering him seemed like the sort of topic that he would admit to only under the pain of death.
Ichigo made an effort to dress up for the party tonight. Rukia supposed she should be grateful that he even deigned to show up at her door in proper closed-toe shoes and not beach sandals.
But where Rukia worried about showing up underdressed, Ichigo's concern, or rather lack of concern, about the dress code showed in the deep V-neck plunge of the long-sleeved shirt he had on, exposing his throat and a certain amount of male cleavage. The sleeves were rolled carelessly past his elbows. The dark flush of purple on his collar made it stand out against his white shirt, the same pop of eye-catching colour showing from the cuff of his dark trousers where he had the legs rolled to his ankles.
His hair of course remained unruly and tousled. Rukia had half a mind to brush and style it herself but decided against it. Even she couldn't imagine Ichigo with slicked back hair.
Ichigo shoved his hands into the pockets of his trousers, feeling uneasy at her scrutiny. "If you keep staring at me like that, I'm going to assume that you find me too good-looking to look away," he joked.
Hah! Rukia scoffed, "you wish!"
A woman has standards. Good-looking meant someone as regal and elegant as Nii-sama. Ichigo was at best, passable- but only just.
Ichigo shrugged, taking it all in good humour. Dipping into an exaggerated bow in front of her, he offered Rukia his arm. "My lady?"
Rukia's hand slipped into the crook of his arm, gripping it tightly. Up close, Ichigo's cologne was a masculine blend of sandalwood and bergamot. Unlike Renji, he didn't make a habit of dousing himself in it when he wore cologne. The scent did not over-empower or trigger a sneezing fit from her.
It was a good sign. She heaved a sigh of relief that she had been unwittingly holding.
"If you must," she drawled, putting on her best Kuchiki airs as she led the way to the party.
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"Rukia-nee! Ichi-nii! Over here!"
It was Yuzu who spotted them first. Karin was not standing too far away as they hovered by the edge of the crowd, close to the buffet table. Beaming, Yuzu waved them over excitedly, her other hand holding on to a plate of exquisite finger food.
Rukia smiled. She looked stunning and her smile was infectious, enough for Rukia to find herself mirroring unbidden.
Yuzu clearly favoured pastel colours in her wardrobe. It showed in the soft dusty rose cocktail dress she chose for the evening. The colour complemented her rosy complexion while the cut of it- the hemline cut a bit shorter above her knees, showed off her legs. Her curled hair, the puff sleeves and the gauzy chiffon material of her dress lent a romantic exuberance to her.
Unlike her twin but no less beautiful, Karin's dress was a rich shade of navy blue. Off shoulder, the sweetheart neckline dramatically dipped at the front while the A-line skirt of the dress flared just past her knees. Her inky black hair was sleek and twisted in an updo as opposed to Yuzu's loose curls cascading past her shoulders. She looked confident, comfortable in her own skin; if not a little bored.
At their approach, Karin merely raised the champagne flute in her hand before she went back to sipping at it, her eyes lazily flitting at the crowd milling about and the couples dancing in pairs up ahead.
There was a stage set up not too far away. A quartet was performing on it. The soothing classical music alleviated the partygoers' frayed nerves and unhappy grumblings about the party being held outdoors to some degree. Rukia could sympathize. The heat was certainly hot enough to make her worry about her makeup melting.
Karin for one, seemed unaffected. Her gaze was set on the many dancing pairs happily dancing away on the dance floor.
"Are you enjoying the party?" Rukia asked.
Yuzu nodded. The food was delicious and she loved the macaroons. As an accomplished chef herself, her expectation was well exceeded. The caterers that the Byakuya hired have outdone themselves. Picking out a raspberry tart, she slipped the dessert into her mouth and finished it in one bite.
"The food's great. Rukia-nee, please give my thanks to your brother for inviting us!"
Yuzu immediately wrestled Rukia's hand away from her brother, linking their hands together as they walked towards the buffet table together.
While her twin chatted excitedly with Rukia, introducing her to the many dishes available, Karin twirled the champagne flute in her hand, watching the bubbly liquid swirl. Her heart wasn't in it. Even faced with platters upon platters of food, she still lacked appetite.
Karin took another sip of the liqueur, letting the alcohol burn a path down her throat. She wasn't bitter, she told herself. The sight of the dancing couples happily twirling away was just a bit too much. They looked stupid, dancing in this unbearable heat. With a haughty sniff, she resolved to not pay any further attention to them.
Yet, when she turned away from it, it was only to see the look on her brother's face. His eyes were softly set on Rukia as he trailed behind her like a shadow. She snorted. Her brother was whipped and he didn't even know it.
Karin pursed her lips, her grip on the glass tightening. She wasn't feeling lonely at all. How could she with so many people surrounding her?
She certainly wasn't drowning her sorrow in champagne, surrounded by so many disgustingly lovey-dovey couples that she was on the verge of vomiting!
She didn't need Toshiro at all!
She was absolutely fine and having the time of her life!
"That's enough."
Her brother's hand gripped at her wrist. He looked at the glass of champagne in her hands and frowned. He could not condone the way she was using alcohol as a means to relieve her heartache. "How many have you had to drink already?"
Karin shrugged. Shaking off her brother's grip, she quickly downed the liquid in one gulp before Ichigo could stop her.
Ichigo scowled, rolling his eyes at the victorious smirk she flashed at him. "You're being ridiculous."
It was obvious to him that Karin missed Toshiro. She was being moody and quietly sulking away, sipping champagne like it was water. Even a glittering party full of delicious food and fancy people couldn't distract her. Her tsundere tendencies were a pain. All she needed to do was answer one of Toshiro's numerous missed calls. She missed him sorely and all they needed to do was talk to each other.
Ichigo digressed, heaving a sigh. She was also a Kurosaki. He knew from personal experience that they were a notoriously stubborn lot. Years from now, he hoped that she would look back at this moment in time and realized what a fool she was.
"Hey!" Ichigo suddenly exclaimed loudly, his eyes squinting and finger pointing at the stage up ahead. "Who's that guy over there?"
Karin's brows furrowed. "What guy?"
"That guy over there! On the stage? I think he looks very familiar."
Karin wasn't an idiot. She knew her brother was up to something, more so when she saw his smirk. Her interest piqued; she couldn't resist looking towards the direction that Ichigo was pointing at.
A second later, she almost dropped her glass in surprise. She must be hallucinating, she thought as she resisted the urge to rub at her eyes. The messy mop of pale hair aside, the lines on his handsome face were ones that Karin has spent hours tracing over with her finger. It was a habit that Toshiro found himself quite annoyed by but could never bring himself to stop her from committing to. Karin knew there was no way she could mistake anybody else for him.
That really was her boyfriend standing on stage right now!
What in the actual fuck?!
She turned to Ichigo, so confused that she was at a loss for words. It can't be!
She could not believe that he lied to her. Toshiro said he wasn't able to make the trip with them because he was busy with work- a last minute business trip with an important client. So what was he doing at this party by the beach?
Before she could make any moves to confront him, Toshiro was already speaking into a cordless microphone he held in his hand. His voice was husky and echoed across the crowd, easily drawing everyone's attention.
"Hello and good evening to the esteemed guests in attendance."
Bewildered looks aside, most of the guests were kind enough to humour him- perhaps mistaking him for the emcee. Some started clapping politely and soon, more people joined in when it became apparent that the party host himself was standing not too far away from stage. Byakuya was mid-conversation with a potential business partner and did not even arch an eyebrow at the commotion, completely unperturbed by the sudden appearance of the 'emcee' on stage.
With his silence, the guests and party-goers took it as a sign of consent, for whatever 'this' is to continue.
The round of applause finally died down. Toshiro continued. "On behalf of the Kuchiki family and our gracious host, I'd like to thank you all for coming to the party tonight."
Karin's fists clenched. Toshiro was wearing a tailored white suit. His pale hair glinted under the spotlight and he looked impossibly tall and dangerous. The fit of the suit was sharp and the trousers hugged his tight hips. The white blazer and trousers contrasted sharply against the black dress shirt he had underneath it and his loafers that were polished so brightly that they seemed to gleam.
The first few buttons on his shirt have been popped open due to the heat and Karin cursed herself for looking, her eyes trailing past the exposed skin. She forcefully jerked her eyes back up, only to make the mistake of looking into Toshiro's teal-green eyes.
Toshiro refused to break eye contact, undeterred even as she made a face, glaring viciously at him.
Karin cursed. There was a definite downside to having a soulmate sometimes.
She loved his eyes the most; loved looking into them and getting lost in the depths. Toshiro's eyes gleam in the light in an exotic shade of turquoise green. When their eyes meet, Karin always found it hard to look away. He has a way of looking at her that made her feel like she was the only one who mattered; that she was special.
It was enough for her resolve to never forgive him to weaken.
Karin gulped. Curse him for turning up at this party looking like this! She was still mad at him!
She can't believe that he lied to her! Heck, what was even he doing here?
Last time she checked, he was a corporate lawyer. Not an emcee at a party that's being hosted by Rukia-nee's brother.
"Most of you won't know me so let me introduce myself. My name is Toshiro Hitsugaya and I apologize beforehand for taking up your time tonight," Toshiro explained, "but I have something that I really need to tell someone. She's very important to me and Byakuya-sama has so graciously allowed me to steal some of the limelight away from his party to tell her this."
"Karin," he called out softly to her and Karin froze. Time seemed to slow to a sudden stop as she watched him get down on one knee, reaching deep into his pocket to fish out a red velvet box. Once opened, a pear-cut diamond ring sat at its center.
The twittering crowd, their gasps and good-natured hollering faded into nothingness. Karin could only hear the sound of her own heart hammering against her chest.
"Will you marry me?"
Something wet slithered down her cheek. With a start, Karin realized she was crying.
How embarrassing, she thought; chiding herself. She had become the one thing that she despised the most. Crying in such an event in front of so many people, with so many people watching; was a mortifying experience.
But today, Karin snorted, rolling her eyes. Let them talk!
She's getting proposed to by her soulmate. She deserved to be emotional. A moment like this won't happen again.
She raised her head up, meeting Toshiro's gaze full on. She wanted to remember everything about the night; to remember the small steps in the journey that finally led them to this moment in time. In years to come, maybe she won't remember the faces of some of the guests in attendance; wouldn't remember what she wore, how painful her shoes were pinching at her toes; might not even remember what colour shirt Toshiro had on, but this?
The way she felt being surrounded by the many well-wishers as they hollered and cheered for her; her siblings and future sister-in-law looking at her with wry amusement and their fervid wishes for her happiness shining in their eyes.
Dark eyes darted to the man still down on one knee for her. The way his gaze never left hers, still so patiently waiting for her reply as she stood there stunned and rooted; Karin digressed, touching her hand to her mouth.
Toshiro only had eyes for her.
She felt so hopelessly loved and touched.
Ichigo was trying his best to look stoic, but Yuzu was already crying next to her as she pushed her towards the stage and the man on it—
Karin choked at the lump at her throat. She would never forget this.
Regardless of whatever happens in the future, she could be eighty and cranky with bad back and even creakier knees, but she will always have this. She would always remember how much love she felt from Toshiro and the love she had for him trinkling steadily through her veins.
She was so in love with him.
"Do you even have to ask? Of course the answer's 'yes'!"
The crowd's cheer was deafening at that point. The guests in front of her considerately parted, leaving her with a straight path towards the stage and the man of her dreams. It became all of a blur, the ground beneath her less than solid and every bit as unbelievable as the dream that she found herself in.
It all felt a little too good to be true until she was standing right in front of Toshiro, helping him to his feet. Toshiro's presence- the smell of his aftershave and the warmth of his body pulled her back into reality and straight into his embrace. His arms grounded her as she hugged him tightly, kissing him on the lips.
When they finally parted at the sound of extra loud coughing coming from someone somewhere in the crowd, both of them pretended not to see said person's disapproving scowl and glares. Touching their forehead's together, Toshiro's smile has never looked brighter as he took the ring out and carefully slid it onto Karin's ring finger.
Karin stared at the ring as she held it out, watching the stone sparkle and glint as it caught the light. Of all the things that she would have imagined happening tonight, this was not one of them, but she had never been happier at the surprise.
"You're so cheesy, you know that?!" she said, carefully dabbing at the remaining moisture she felt at the corner of her eyes to avoid ruining her makeup any further. She still remembered what Toshiro said in the moments leading up to his proposal.
"I can't believe Ichi-nii knew about this before I did!" Karin's eyes narrowed. "How long have you been planning this? Did you purposely blow me off for this?"
Toshiro gave a sheepish grin to her at that. That was all Karin needed to confirm her suspicions. She should have known something was off when Toshiro decided to cancel on her last minute!
She punched him on his chest, a little annoyed. "You did! You bastard! Do you have any idea how angry I was?! I still haven't forgiven you for lying!"
Toshiro's smile was soft and obliging as he looked at her. "What can I do to make it up to you? What can I do to earn the Great Karin Kurosaki's forgiveness then?"
Karin sniffed haughtily. "You owe me a dance, but not now. I can't dance to this music."
The musicians have resumed playing not too long ago. Karin frowned at the type of music being played and the couples gliding gracefully across the dance floor. Classical music and ballroom dancing was not something she was familiar with. She wouldn't trust herself not to step on Toshiro's feet.
Much to her surprise, Toshiro merely tilted his head at the musicians and they all stopped playing, getting to their feet and exiting the stage without another word. The dancing pairs on the dance floor stopped dancing, their questioning gazes landing on the people on the stage when the music stopped abruptly.
At the snap of Toshiro's fingers, music started playing again. Only this time, the melody was a lot more contemporary and the beat jaunty. Karin smiled. Now, that was more suited for her taste.
Even if it veered a little too cheesy and 80s power/love ballad-y for her.
Music was now blaring from the loudspeakers set up by the side and Karin resisted the urge to sing along as the intro music came on. Some of the dancing pairs looked scandalized, clearly offended by the song choice, quickly deserting the dance floor with their faces pinched and tutting disapprovingly. Others happily continued, showing off new dancing moves. Some amused party guests bravely took to the dance floor.
Karin laughed.
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Well, I guess it would be nice if I could touch your body
I know not everybody has got a body like you
But I gotta think twice before I give my heart away
And I know all the games you play because I played them, too
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"Ok, who are you and what have you done with Toshiro Hitsugaya? Do you know how unbelievably corny you are being right now?" Karin asked teasingly. "Also, how did you manage to convince Rukia-nee's brother to play this on his party?"
Don't get her wrong. She has the utmost respect for Rukia-nee and her brother, in part due to kind invitation to the Kuchiki summer home, as well as allowing Toshiro's proposal to steal the show at the party.
However, this was a party held for the purpose of entertaining Kuchiki guests and attracting further business opportunities for them. As nice and generous as Karin imagined Byakuya Kuchiki to be, the man wasn't Rukia-nee. He was still a businessman at the end of the day. She was a little worried about the deal that Toshiro made with the stoic Kuchiki for all of this to happen.
"Please don't tell me you had to sell him one of your kidneys or if you promised him our firstborn child for this to happen."
Toshiro snorted. It was nothing so dramatic as what Karin painted it to be. The lawyer firm that he was recently made partner was a prominent one that almost exclusively dealt with Kuchiki Enterprise. He just happened to be at the right place at the right time with some of the right connections. Byakuya Kuchiki might be, dare Toshiro say it,a closet romantic. He didn't really even bat an eye at the request before he agreed to it.
"Let's just say that our client was very happy with the deal that I managed to broker for him with another company."
"Well, aren't you clever, Mr. Hitsugaya?" Karin teased, wrapping her hands around his neck to drag him closer.
"Oh, but that's nothing compared to you, Mrs. Hitsugaya," quipped Toshiro.
Karin rolled her eyes, playfully chiding at him. "God, stop it! You're being so disgustingly mushy with me right now. You're making my teeth ache!"
"But you love me for it, Mrs. Hitsugaya."
Karin's response was a cheeky grin as she leaned in to kiss him on the lips before leading him by the hand, down the steps and towards the crowded dance floor.
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Big brothers were born first to protect and watch over their younger siblings, no matter how old they get. Karin was a grown woman now and Ichigo respected her decisions, including who she spends the rest of her life with; but he still took his job seriously.
Ichigo said nothing as he stood by the side, watching Toshiro twirl Karin around as the music rose to a crescendo. The joy exuding from the happy couple was near palpable as they laughed and giggled, holding each other close; their bodies swaying in time to the beat of the music.
"I take it that you already knew about the proposal before the rest of us did."
Rukia's voice cut through his aimless musings. Ichigo raised his head up to meet her gaze. He was still holding a glass of champagne in his hand and he unthinkingly brought it to his lips.
"I did."
Toshiro wanted it to be a surprise but he was honourable and considerate enough to ask for the blessings from the two other important men in Karin's life. Ichigo trusted him to take care of Karin and make her happy.
"Hm, and my brother?"
"He did, but none of us connected the dots until much later."
It was a small world that they lived in. Who would have thought that Rukia's pain-in-the-ass brother was also the big client that Toshiro's firm served? It certainly made for a strange web of connections between the three men; strange enough that Ichigo didn't want to spend another second mulling over it.
Either way, Ichigo was sure that Byakuya didn't know that Karin was going to be the lucky woman Toshiro was going to propose to when he invited all three Kurosaki siblings to the Kuchiki summer home.
He only made the connection himself when he realized who Byakuya Kuchiki actually was.
"Small world," said Rukia as she sipped at her own wine.
Ichigo nodded. A slow song came on and he watched from the corner of his eye, as more people joined the crowd on the dance floor. Couples in the deep embraces, bodies pressed close to each other; arms draped and wrapped over shoulders, gently swayed to the beat of the song.
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Take my hand
Take my whole life, too
For I can't help falling in love with you
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Ichigo's eyes darted at Rukia who was standing close to him in comfortable silence, her own eyes staring at the crowd of dancing couples not too far away. The champagne was sweet and fruity but his mouth felt dry.
Would she say yes if he asked her to dance?
He reasoned that it wouldn't hurt to ask. It was a gentleman thing to do. In the eyes of Byakuya Kuchiki and the other party guests, she was still his girlfriend. Wouldn't it be a little too suspicious if they didn't even share ONE dance at a party that's being hosted by her own brother?
"Would—"
"Excuse me."
Ichigo frowned. It wasn't like Rukia to cut him off rudely like that on whim. His eyes trailed after her as she made her way further away towards a small clique of women gathering at the other side.
His eyes quickly hardened when he noticed how Yuzu was being cornered by the clique. He couldn't quite see the look on her face but judging by how Rukia left in a hurry, he didn't imagine it to be anything good. He cursed, gulping down the contents of the champagne flute before pressing the empty glass into the hand of one of the staff available.
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The woman standing in front of her was a tall brunette with her long hair styled fashionably into a chignon. They were roughly of the same age and height. Yuzu thought she would have looked quite pretty- a real fairytale princess almost with her princess dress, if it weren't for the mean-looking sneer she had on as she looked down at her. Her 'lackeys' and fellow mean girls flanked her on both sides, wearing almost identical shades of pink.
Yuzu had no idea who the woman was or why she was so angry at her. She couldn't help but notice how much the woman was 'shining' with the jewelry she had on. As if to set herself apart from her lackeys and show that she was in charge, the silver princess gown she had on was sequined and sparkled. Combined with the heavy tiara, bejeweled necklace and bracelets, Yuzu was surprised that she was even walking under the weight. The woman was a walking LED spotlight though Yuzu doubted she even noticed.
"Yes? Can I help you?"
Yuzu frowned, feeling uncomfortable under the scrutiny of so many cold glares.
The woman suddenly marched forward, shoving her. Surprised by the sudden movement and wholly unprepared for it, Yuzu tripped, falling onto the ground in a heap. The women gathered around them giggled and jeered.
Yuzu's face burned from being openly ridiculed but she refused to allow them the satisfaction of seeing her cry. She picked herself up and stared at the woman dead in the eyes. "What's your problem? Why did you do that?"
The woman scoffed. "Don't act innocent and pretend that you don't know anything! I saw you talking to Daiki. Mind your own business and stay away from him! He's mine!"
Yuzu could feel her temper flaring as she clenched her fists, gritting her teeth. "I don't even know who Daiki is! Who are you?"
The strange woman turned to her companions, scoffing in disbelief, exclaiming loudly. "Is she for real? Daiki- tall, hunky, blonde hair?! You were talking to him just now. I saw the two of you together! Don't think you can lie your way out of this!"
Yuzu frowned. She remembered talking to a stranger at the buffet table earlier. He was kind and seemed to be very invested in the culinary arts. They made small talks about the food and about the party. There was nothing more beyond that and they had quickly parted ways after that brief conversation.
Yuzu was speechless. She realized quickly that this rude woman was not only a bully, she was also controlling and delusional! Yuzu pitied this Daiki that had the misfortune of being called hers.
"You got it all wrong! I was just asking him about the desserts!"
"Stop lying!" the woman hissed.
The volume of her screech made Yuzu wince. It didn't matter how hard she tried to explain herself; the woman had already decided that she was guilty, convinced beyond a shadow of doubt that Yuzu was trying to steal her man.
"I saw you with him!" Her face twisted into an ugly look, madness flickering in her eyes. "Skanks like you need to be taught a lesson!"
Before anyone else could react, she lashed out, snatching the glass of red wine from her friend's hand and throwing the wine on Yuzu.
It was too late for Yuzu to move out of the way. Instinctively, she put her hands out to shield herself and shut her eyes, dreading the humiliation. Yet, despite the horrified gasps from the crowd, the wet splash didn't land on her or her dress.
"Rukia-nee!"
When Yuzu opened her eyes, it was Rukia's face that she saw. Rukia had jumped in front of her, shielding her from the wine with her back. Red wine stained the white dress, covering it in a very conspicuous blot and forming splatters from where stray droplets landed, dribbling a path down the back. Her dress was ruined. The crowd gathered around them were brazenly pointing fingers, whispering harshly behind their covered mouths.
No one stepped forward to help them or chastise the woman.
Yuzu has had enough. If no one else would make a stand and do what's right, she would! She clenched her fists tightly, ready to give the woman a piece of her mind, but Rukia's hand on her wrist stopped her. Yuzu turned to look at Rukia, who only shook her head and sighed.
In a voice that only the two of them could hear, Rukia whispered to her, "don't. It's not worth it."
This was a Kuchiki-hosted dinner party. Rukia didn't want to make a scene or create trouble for her brother and his guests. She bit at the tip of her tongue, eager to leave with Yuzu. But they were surrounded by the woman's clique.
Rukia quickly set herself forward, shielding Yuzu with her body; her hand still clasped on the other woman's wrist as she turned around to face the woman.
"Leave her alone, Mitsuko! You're making a scene!"
Mitsuko's sneer widened and showed teeth as she folded her arms. Pressing the now empty wine glass back into the original owner's hand, she marched confidently over to look down at Rukia and snickered at the wine-stained dress she had on.
"If it isn't my favourite cousin!"
Yuzu whispered, "you know her?"
Rukia nodded coldly. Unfortunately, she did.
Mitsuko hasn't changed at all. Growing up, she was a privileged brat, making it insufferable for both Rukia and her sister whenever there was a Kuchiki gathering. She prided herself on hailing from one of the branch families that boasted the closest tie with Byakuya; the two of them sharing the same great-grandfather. The idea that an orphan like Rukia could be allowed to even eat at the same table as her drove her mad with jealousy.
Time has only made her crueler.
Mitsuko scoffed. "I shouldn't even be surprised."
She looked pointedly at Yuzu. "Did you learn your man-stealing ways from her? There's no shame in that, I suppose. She did learn from the best. That whore that she calls her sister was a gold-digger and tricked Byakuya-sama into marrying her!"
Rukia's fists were clenched so tightly that she could feel her nails digging into her palm. She could take any insult directed at herself, comforting herself with the knowledge that she's been called much worse; that words were only words, but she refused to have anyone drag Hisana down. She snapped.
"You leave my sister out of this!"
"Make me!" Mitsuko snorted. "You can take the girl out of the streets, but you can't take the streets out of her. Byakuya-sama had to learn it the hard way, but eventually he accepted it too. That's why he stopped inviting you to these parties! Who would have thought that you'd be so shameless as to show your face around here tonight?
"Haven't you and your precious sister done enough for this family?"
Yuzu could feel Rukia shaking at the snide remarks. Rukia wanted so badly to make Mitsuko take the words back, to scream that Mitsuko was a liar, but she couldn't.
Mitsuko was telling the truth.
As Byakuya's younger sister, even if she was only adopted, Rukia used to be invited to the Kuchiki parties in the past. Even if her Kuchiki relatives didn't like her, they still had enough sense to tolerate her presence when Byakuya had personally invited her to them. Yet Nii-sama's invitations stopped after she left the force.
Her other relatives noticed her absence soon enough and when they found out that Byakuya had stopped inviting her altogether, they couldn't stop singing praises of him for finally coming to his senses; for finally realizing that Rukia was a failure undeserving of the family name. The Kuchiki name was powerful but it wasn't invincible. It couldn't save what was already rotten at its core and a street rat orphan would never be worthy of it.
Rukia never bothered asking why or broached the subject with her brother. While it stung not being invited any more, she told herself that it was for the best. She didn't belong in that glittering world anyway. In fact, she was even a little glad that the invites stopped. She never did like attending these parties. At least, it meant that she would never have to deal with the likes of Mitsuko.
"Oi! Shut your fucking mouth!"
Rukia's eyes widened. There was a commotion from somewhere beyond the crowd. When she squinted at its direction, she saw the telltale shade of orange- wild as ever looming closer towards her with every heartbeat.
"Ichi-nii!"
Rukia gulped. Her grip tightening on Yuzu's as Ichigo paid no heed to the indignant squawks at his shoving and pushing as he broke through the human barrier, setting himself firmly in front of them, glaring daggers at anyone who was brave or foolish enough to meet his gaze. His height worked to his advantage and the scowl he wore was vicious. Everyone else surrounding them seemed to take a collective step backwards at the intimidating effect, their eyes pointedly looking away to avoid making eye contact with Ichigo.
With his back still facing them, Ichigo asked, "are you alright?"
Rukia looked up; dark eyes boring into his back, her expression suddenly unreadable. She was no damsel in distress. She didn't need anyone to rescue her, but it felt good being sided with, to be the person being shielded and not the other way round. Nii-sama cared for her, but when it came to clan politics and family dealings, even he had to make compromises; to avoid showing her too much favour, lest the other members of the family accused him of playing favourites.
Ichigo held no such qualms. This streak of protectiveness coming from him, for wearing his heart on his sleeve— Rukia's Kuchiki sensibilities might chide and call him a fool, but she doesn't hate it.
It felt nice knowing that someone has your back and that they are willing to make a stand for you. It felt nice to be cared for and protected. Maybe being weak, being in need of help and asking for it- even just for a second, didn't seem like such a terrible thing after all.
Yuzu's joy at seeing her older brother was infectious, Rukia decided. How else could she explain this sudden surge of warmth that filled her; this sudden lapse in judgment that allowed those dangerous thoughts to cloud her mind?
Mitsuko's surprise at the sudden appearance of a scowling orange-haired man, who was a good head taller than her even with her heels on, made her falter. Even when she tried hard not to let it show, she visibly swallowed, struggling to meet his gaze head-on.
"Who are you trying to play hero? Are you the poor bastard my dear cousin managed to sink her claws in, pretending to be innocent and in need of protection?"
Mitsuko scoffed, jeeringly adding, "You should run while you can. Don't say I didn't warn you. Cousin Rukia over there is every bit a gold-digger as her sister was."
Her clique snickered accordingly in response.
Ichigo's eyes hardened into flints. He squared his shoulders and firmly declared to Mitsuko, "you're wrong."
He didn't say anything more. A man of his height with an angry scowling face didn't need to say anything more to get the message across.
Summer time was the perfect time for a storm to gather. The room pressure plummeted lower with every step that Ichigo took towards them. When his dark eyes narrowed, making eye contact; the crowd of previously snickering women suddenly quietened, making up excuses as they hurriedly left the scene.
Alone and outnumbered, Mitsuko gulped. She stomped her feet, determined not to let her nervousness show. She was still a Kuchiki after all. There was no way she would allow herself to be intimidated by a dirty ill-bred street rat and her ugly-looking mutt.
"D-Did not! It's the truth! Everyone here knows how the woman tricked Byakuya-sama—"
Ichigo cut her off without batting an eye. "I don't hit women. But I don't mind making an exception for you."
Mitsuko's face immediately paled. She took a step back. "H-How dare you! Do you even know who I am! Byakuya-sama will hear of this! I have never been so disgusted in my life!"
Ichigo's scowl deepened. This crazy woman's incessant yapping was really getting on his nerves. It was 'Byakuya-sama' this and 'that horrible woman who was Rukia's sister' that. He's just about had enough. At least when Rukia was nagging and being a menace, she was cute about it.
"That's enough!"
Both Ichigo and Mitsuko turned to face the newcomer. Ichigo gave an unimpressed snort, whereas Mitsuko immediately beamed, jutting her chin out triumphantly.
"Byakuya-sama! You got here just in the nick of time! This man was so rude and aggressive to me! Cousin Rukia was just standing there, watching it happen. She didn't even bother to help or intervene!"
The stoic man looked unperturbed, barely glancing at Mitsuko when he felt her inching behind him, using his body as shield to hide away from Ichigo. Byakuya's eyes darted towards his own sister who was still standing behind her boyfriend. It was hard not to notice how quickly Rukia's face schooled itself into a mask of placidity, her head bowed, her eyes downcast despite her clenched fists.
Byakuya's brows furrowed. It was disappointment that he saw in her eyes- disappointment in him as her brother. Even before he did anything, Rukia had already assumed the worst possible outcome. It would be her that would be made to apologize to her bully.
Guilt gnawed at him. How much abuse and injustice must she have put up with in the past to default onto such a conclusion with him; to accept her fate and punishment without a word of protest to defend herself against Mitsuko's accusations?
How badly had he failed her and how was it that it had taken him this long to realize this?
He had been the perfect Kuchiki heir growing up, groomed to take over the family business and behave like a proper noble. He excelled in the roles and goals that he set out for himself. Even after meeting Hisana, he was a good boyfriend to her and eventually became what he'd hope to have been, an even better husband.
Yet, Byakuya struggled to find his fit in the mantle as Rukia's older brother. He struggled to find the balance, unsure of how to communicate and engage with Hisana's sister who was so much younger and so much like her in some ways, yet radically different in others. He didn't want Rukia to fear him and wanted to do right by her.
In his attempts to provide her with a family however, he has only succeeded in burdening her with the unnecessary weight of the Kuchiki name. He thought that by keeping his distance, Rukia would be more comfortable, leading a more carefree life outside the shadow of the Kuchiki clan; but the incident tonight has only proved him wrong.
What he thought was protection for his sister was seen as his indifference to her; carelessly used as an excuse to bully and mock her in his presence.
Byakuya frowned and subtly moved out of the way. What a shameless woman! He never knew that Rukia had been suffering in silence under such a bully until today. He was a lot of things, but he was not a bully and he especially refused to be an accomplice of bullying, especially when it was against his own sister.
If him standing up for Rukia would mean rocking the boat and upsetting people in the family, then so be it!
"Kurosaki," he drawled.
Ichigo tilted his head challengingly to meet his gaze, unrepentant to say the least. "What about it, Byakuya?"
He was not Rukia, eager to please and anxious about his disapproval. Byakuya better not expect him to just fold and accept any lecturing coming his way because he swore on his pride that he won't. He won't stand by and let anyone humiliate Rukia under his watch. Brown eyes hardened at Mitsuko. If Byakuya was too chicken to upset the rest of his precious clan, he would!
Mitsuko gasped, scandalized and unaware of the malicious intent rolling off from Ichigo. "That's Byakuya-sama to you! How dare you address Byakuya-sama so casually!"
Both men ignored her with practiced ease.
"I wanted to applaud you on your self-restraint."
Byakuya's words surprised everyone, Ichigo included. He folded his arms, covering up his embarrassment with a cough as he mumbled, "whatever. I didn't do it for you."
Mitsuko gave them both an incredulous look in response until the unexpected mention of her name from Byakuya's mouth made her stiffen. Slate grey eyes were devoid of warmth as they pinned her down. She respectfully averted her gaze from him, trying to make herself look small.
"Y-Yes, Byakuya-sama?"
"I am not blind. Neither are the guests in attendance. Mr. Kurosaki is a guest and so is his sister. They are to be treated with respect. But more importantly, Rukia is my sister and I will not have you speak ill about her in such a way. Make no mistake, she did you a favour by just standing by and not intervening. There are many people who I'm sure would have done worse to you."
"B-Byakuya-sama, there must be some sort of mistake! Surely—"
"There is no mistake and you will do well not to interrupt me when I am talking."
Mitsuko immediately cowered. Standing behind Ichigo, Rukia was stunned by the turn of events. She raised her head up just in time to meet her brother's gaze. She met it unflinchingly and openly.
"It seems that I owe you an apology and an explanation, Rukia," he told her. "I have been remiss in my duties in an older brother."
"Nii-sama, there is no—"
Byakuya held out a hand. "Let me finish."
He paused, giving the crowd a meaningful look before turning to look at Rukia again. "You are my sister, yet I have allowed your mistreatment at the hands of your tormentors to pass unchecked. Your tormentors are cowardly bullies and liars. In my ignorance, I have foolishly led them to think that I condone their behaviour. I should have been more aware of it and stopped them. For that, I hope that you would find it in your heart to forgive me and allow me the chance to right my wrong and do better next time."
The apology from the host of the party caused a stir among the party guests. Amidst the loud whispers and pointed fingers, Byakuya continued.
"I have seen how much you dislike attending these parties in the past. You do not enjoy attending them and contrary to what some people might believe, I do not enjoy seeing you suffer. That's the true reason behind why I stopped inviting you. You are simply too kind to reject my invitations, so I did it for you. I had not anticipated how it would look to others and I can only apologize for the hurt you felt."
Rukia's smile was always forced during these parties and he knew that she was ostracised even when she was a part of the main family. If he had known the extent of her bullying, Byakuya would not have sat idly by. His heart ached. He wished Rukia told him about things and that he had done something sooner.
"Please understand that I did not mean to slight or spite you and that you will always be my precious sister. No matter what happens, I am proud of you. I will see to it that you personally receive an invitation for every party, but please do not feel obligated to attend. It is your choice and your presence is always welcomed."
Rukia could feel her tears welling up, forcefully swallowing the lump in her throat as she forced herself to blink them away. She was so touched by his words.
"As for you—" He looked at Mitsuko, lips curling into distaste— "my wife was not a gold-digger. The sheer disrespect you have shown towards my family and my guests disgust me and sullies the Kuchiki family name. You are a disappointment and an utter embarrassment to the clan. Your presence would not be missed in future Kuchiki-hosted events and I will personally see to it."
"Byakuya-sama!"
Byakuya could feel his patience waning and it crept into his voice. "Rukia is my pride and only sister. I would think very carefully about what I'm about to say, if I were you."
Mitsuko's tears welled. She was mortified by the experience. She swore she could die from the embarrassment of being chastised by Byakuya-sama in front of everyone in the party. She stormed off in disbelief, pushing through the crowd as she made her exit.
Ignoring the commotion behind him, Byakuya turned to Ichigo. "Kurosaki, would you please escort my sister to her room?"
Ichigo blanked, confused; but he quickly nodded when he noticed the other party guests looking past him to whisper about the woman standing behind him.
After the confrontation, Rukia was once again shoved under the limelight, the object of much scrutiny by party guests. She could feel the wine-stained dress sticking to her back uncomfortably and wondered how disgraceful she must look to them. Even when she tried hard to keep her chin up, she still felt conscious being a target of gossip and the not-so well-meaning looks directed at her.
Sensing her discomfort, Ichigo quickly turned around, pulling her close to him. Rukia nearly jumped when she felt his arm being draped across her shoulder. She was unprepared for the warmth of Ichigo's lanky frame leaning in so closely to her. She swore she could feel the beat of his thumping heart right beside hers as he huddled by protectively.
With a sharp intake of breath, she willed herself to take her first step away from the crowd. He walked slow behind her, shielding her back with his front, so no one would see the back of her ruined dress.
"Ignore them," he whispered.
Rukia tilted her face up to see his scowl softening when he looked at her. A second later, he was already casting his eyes up ahead, suddenly looking cold and intimidating again.
She quietly tucked away her hand that was raised upwards to push his arm away and let him lead the way without any protest.
.
.
.
"You know, this wasn't what I had in mind when you said you know a place," joked Ichigo as he plopped down on the sandy beach floor.
Rukia did indeed know a place, tucked away in anonymity on the private beach behind the Kuchiki summer home. It was a full moon tonight and the bright shafts of moonlight made it easy for them to track their path, allowing them to start a small fire and set up camp.
"Shut up," Rukia groused as she looked up from her own perch not too far away. The dress that she had on was cream-coloured and sleeveless. The loose-fitting garment ended mid-calf and looked to be made of something soft like cotton. There were frills on the hemline and the shoulder straps were thin. They had fallen off her shoulder a few times and Ichigo regrettably noticed every instance that Rukia quietly tugged them back into place.
Despite her snarky tone, Rukia was smiling faintly. She was a little tipsy and her cheeks were tinged a bit too red for her to be completely sober but she raised her glass of champagne to him, ceremoniously clinking their glasses together.
The bottle of champagne between them was almost empty.
It was well past midnight when Ichigo heard the knocking at his door. When he opened the door, he didn't expect to see Rukia standing outside in a dress that could have doubled as her nightgown.
His hair was still damp from the shower he just took and his mind went blank as he leaned against the door frame, unsure of what to think. He was a gentleman of course and the relationship that he shared with Rukia wasn't that sort of relationship, but it did make for a very misleading and suggestive scene with her standing outside his room in a deserted corridor in a dress like that, especially when she's supposed to be his girlfriend.
Rukia smiled as she held up a bottle of champagne and two wine glasses that she had hidden behind her, and gestured at him to follow her. She knew a place where they can share a drink, telling him that he'd appreciate the view.
Ichigo nodded and said ok, knowing full well that he would have followed her to just about anywhere when she showed up looking like that.
Rukia didn't lie to him. The ocean in front of him seemed to stretch on forever. The air was salty and a soothing sea breeze teased at his hair as he leaned back, shutting his eyes in quiet contentment. This secluded spot was quiet, save for the sound of ocean waves lapping at the sandy seashore, the sound of fire crackling close by. Ichigo lifted his head upwards at the kaleidoscopic sea of stars.
"I don't like introducing myself as a Kuchiki."
Rukia's sudden confession shattered the comfortable silence between them. Ichigo turned to face her. The moonlight on her face lent a glow to her, making her softer- a sudden touch of fragility that Ichigo would have never associated with her. Rukia was loud and demanding, strong and not the slightest bit afraid to speak her mind.
Or at least, that's what he thought she was like before the party tonight.
He still remembered how angry he was when he saw her being attacked by that woman. The fact that no one even bothered to intervene until he wrestled his way past the crowd made him even angrier. If Byakuya hadn't stepped in later, he would have given her haughty brother a piece of his mind too!
"But you are a Kuchiki."
Rukia snorted at that. She hugged her knees, rubbing at her bare arms as the midnight air nipped at her. She didn't the way people treated her differently when they find out about her prestigious clan. The moment people find out that she's the business mogul Byakuya Kuchiki's sister was the moment her relationship with said person changes, not for the better. She knew it all too well from past experiences.
"I never felt like one."
It's true. Hisana was a Kuchiki by marriage. Byakuya was a Kuchiki by blood. She was made a Kuchiki through adoption. Of the three, her tie to the family was the weakest and it showed with how she struggled to carry the name. When she was younger, Rukia had hoped one day she'd finally 'grow' into her name. She knew enough to stop believing in miracles by the time she left the force.
Ichigo cleared his throat. "Well, I don't know if it makes any difference to you, but to me, you've always been Rukia."
Rukia's surprise couldn't have been more obvious. She could have snapped her neck with how quickly she turned, staring blankly at him. The weight of her gaze was enough to make Ichigo avert his eyes, conscious of how his cheeks felt warm, but continued nonetheless. Rukia deserved his honesty.
"Even if you're not a Kuchiki, you're still you. You'd still be the same Rukia who'd step in to protect Yuzu when that bitch was acting up. You'd still be the same Rukia who made those awesome cupcakes for people at the hospital. You'd still be the same Rukia who came up with a plan to prove my innocence when everyone else seems convinced that I'm the killer."
Ichigo licked his lips. "You'd still be the same Rukia who volunteered to be my fake girlfriend for this case; the same Rukia that I'd ask for a dance, if I ever get the chance."
There was a heavy pause in the air before Rukia snorted loudly at that. She tilted her head at him, her eyes gleaming under the light. "Real smooth, Ichigo. Do you say that to all your fake girlfriends?"
"Only if they're called Rukia," he replied without skipping a beat.
Rukia's lips curled into a soft smile as she got to her feet, suddenly feeling shy as she patted the sand off her dress. "There's no music though."
Ichigo fished out his phone from his pocket. A second later, there were familiar guitar chords echoing in the background as he gently dropped it onto the sand beneath their feet.
Rukia could feel her heart racing at his approach. His face bathed under the moonlight inched closer. Without her shoes, she barely made it past his shoulders. His hand dwarfed hers. The small of her back tingled when he laid his palm flat against it. The layer of cotton was thin enough that she could feel the warmth radiating from him. She gulped, hesitating only for a minute before putting her hand on him.
Her attempts at wrapping her arms around his neck made Ichigo chuckle. She glared. He was much too tall. But when Ichigo tried to accommodate her height by bending slightly, Rukia wrinkled her nose, frowning. In the end, she settled for simply hugging his waist, leaning her head against his chest. Ichigo shrugged, deciding that he had no complaints with it if she was comfortable. He was careful not to step on her toes as he held her close.
Against the backdrop of the astral sea and the ocean waves- in a world forgotten by the mundanity of civilization, there was just the two of them, body swaying softly to the music playing.
"I'm sorry about your dress," Ichigo whispered, "You looked really pretty tonight. Sorry it got ruined."
Rukia raised her head up at him, only to find him looking at her intently. Unbidden, her lips curled and her eyes softened. "T-Thank you."
Ichigo's face mirrored hers, his movement uncharacteristically gentle as his hand left her back to tuck her stray bang behind her ear.
There was a sudden realization that accompanied the gesture. It came as sudden as summer rain falling down from a clear blue sky. It's the crack of thunder on a quiet day, a sudden bolt from the blue that sizzled, frazzling everything in sight. When the smell of ozone cleared, things fell into place in a way that Ichigo felt stupid for not noticing it in the first place.
"C-Can I kiss you?"
His forwardness shocked himself, but the shock was second only to the hurt he felt as Rukia blinked, throwing her head back laughing. Ichigo's smile faltered but only for a minute as he tried to play it off as him being affected by the champagne.
Before he could say another word though, Rukia's grip on him tightened. When he looked at her again, it was only to see Rukia with her eyes shut, heart-shaped face leaning closer and closer still as she stood on her tiptoes.
Ichigo didn't question it, heeding instincts as he bent at his knees, eyelids fluttering shut.
Suddenly, nothing and everything made sense.
The moon was beautiful and everything that she shined a light on was heavenly. The music played on in the background.
Rukia—
He might be in love with his fake girlfriend.
.
Ladies and gentlemen, will you please stand?
With every guitar string scar on my hand
I take this magnetic force of a man to be my lover
.
.
.
Author's note:
And there you have it. The kiss under the stars and everything in between. *sighs* this chapter was super long! Hope you guys enjoyed it! Can you guess the songs from the lyrics?
10. Camaraderie
17. Lovesick
23. Bleach colourspread of choice (guess which one I picked!)