Hello friends! Back with another one for you~
I just want to say thank you for the recent love I've received on this old fic, I'm happy this reached you. And if you don't like it, that's ok too!
I hope to get the next chapter out when I can. Stay safe, happy and healthy!
A wave of anxiety washed over Hajime as she examined her recent ultrasound image. During her treatment at Squad Four's Barracks, the next scan had confirmed the baby's gender. Sitting on a garden bench, she softly traced the photo's outline.
"I'm having a girl," she announced, a shy smile appearing as Rukia eagerly pressed for details.
Noticing Hajime's lack of enthusiasm, Rukia remarked, "You don't look too thrilled about it."
Hajime let out a deep sigh as flashes of her time in the World of the Living darted through her mind. Will I be able to protect her?
"Winter break is almost over," Rukia remarked, "You really should talk to Nii-Sama before the Academy finds out. It will be tough to hide that bump once it starts to grow."
Hajime slumped onto the bench, "What am I supposed to say? I've been thinking about it, but I'm not sure it will sound convincing."
"Just be honest with him," Rukia replied firmly, "Let him know you're expecting and that your family is expanding. Knowing Nii-Sama, he might not even press for more information."
"That might work…"
"And with Aka-Nee and Akihiko-Sama away, it's the perfect time to have a private conversation with him."
"I hate it when you're right," she confessed resignedly.
Rukia gave her a playful wink and a thumbs up, saying, "Remember, you're not in this alone. I got your back."
Summoning her courage, Hajime knocked on Byakuya's door, her heart racing. "Come in," he called, and she inhaled deeply before stepping inside with a bright smile.
"Ah, Kisumoto-San. Is everything alright?" he asked, pausing the paperwork that he'd brought back from the barracks.
Gathering every ounce of determination she could muster, she knew she had to speak up now while the courage was still within her. "Um, there's something I'd like to discuss with you, Kuchiki-Sama. Do you have a moment?"
"Actually," he replied, organizing his documents with precision, "Akane is returning home early from her father's place, and I intended to meet her at the gate. Is something wrong? Are your classes set for the upcoming semester?"
"Oh, my classes are all set, there's no issue there! I wanted to discuss something else with you, but we can save that for another time…"
As she hurried to leave the room, Byakuya gently grasped her wrist and turned her to face him. "You know you can share anything with me. I'll always make time for you."
She met his gaze but hesitated. "I'm not sure how to say this," she stammered, "so I'll just come straight out with it."
Releasing her wrist, he looked at her with gentle eyes. But before she could reveal her news, a sudden wave of pain struck her. A sharp, agonizing sensation radiated through her stomach, forcing her to double over, clutching her abdomen.
"Kisumoto-San!" Byakuya called out, alarmed.
"S-Something's wrong," she gasped, struggling to breathe. Without hesitation, he scooped her up and rushed toward the Manor Physician. "N-no! Unohana Taichou, I need to get to—Unohana Taichou." In a flash, he shunpo-ed beyond the Manor grounds, heading straight for Squad Four's Barracks.
As he recalled the fortune teller's ominous words, anxiety gripped him: someone close to you will fall ill...
Seeing Hajime in such distress, he tightened his hold and quickened his pace. I always thought the fortune teller was referring to Rukia or Renji… I never imagined it would be you. Please, hold on, Hajime!
Observing the anguish on Hajime's face while cradled in Byakuya's arms, Unohana swiftly summoned Isane to fetch a hospital bed. Once they gently placed Hajime onto the bed, Isane rushed to take her to a room for an ultrasound and additional examinations. As Byakuya walked alongside her, she grasped his wrist and urged, "You should go. Akane-Sama will be back soon, right? She needs you there."
"But you—"
"Your family needs you," she replied, her smile tinged with sadness.
With a resigned sigh, he promised, "I'll make sure Rukia is with you as soon as possible."
Releasing his wrist, Isane pushed Hajime away, focused on getting her the care she needed.
As Isane stepped into the room, she had the sonogram machine set up and ready for Unohana.
"Unohana Taichou," Hajime gasped between her labored breaths, "Something's wrong. Please, the baby… is the baby okay?" With a gentle touch, Unohana prepared to examine her belly, but the ultrasound revealed a heartbreaking silence—no heartbeat. "Why can't I hear her heart?" Hajime cried out in panic, "Are you sure the sound is on? Unohana Taichou!"
With a heavy heart, Unohana had to deliver the devastating news: there was no heartbeat, and the baby was lost. "I'm so sorry, Kisumoto-San," she said softly, her voice laced with sorrow. "We—"
"No, no! Can't you use Kaido to heal her? This can't be the end! Please," Hajime pleaded, tears streaming down her cheeks, "Please save her!" She clutched Unohana's hands tightly, and Unohana closed her eyes, feeling the weight of the moment.
"Kaido won't help," she replied gently. "It's far too late for that."
"It can't just end like this! I don't understand. I was so careful. How could this happen?"
"Everything looked normal during your last scan. I'll have Isane take some blood samples, and we'll run tests to find out what went wrong. For now, we'll give you some time alone." As Isane and Unohana exited the room, Hajime's tears flowed freely. She wrapped her arms around her belly, curling up into a ball as her sobs filled the silence.
A few hours later, Rukia burst into the room where Hajime was staying. She found Hajime gazing blankly out the window, lost in thought. Concerned, Rukia asked what was wrong. Hajime didn't respond, as a member of the medical team entered with a lunch tray.
"Kuchiki Fukutaichou," the Shinigami acknowledged her presence.
"What's going on with Hajime? What happened?" Rukia pressed for answers.
"She's been in a daze ever since Unohana Taichou delivered the news," the Shinigami replied.
"What news?" Rukia questioned, her worry deepening.
The Shinigami hesitated, recalling her instructions to keep Hajime's pregnancy confidential. "I know about the baby," Rukia reassured her, "what news?"
The Shinigami swallowed hard and leaned closer to Rukia, whispering, "The baby is lost."
"What?" Rukia gasped, her heart sinking. She approached Hajime and gently called for her, "Hajime… Hajime."
Slowly, Hajime's gaze shifted to Rukia, and tears streamed down her face. "Rukia… I'm sorry," she sobbed. "I'm sorry… I'm so sorry…"
Rukia wrapped her arms around Hajime, comforting her and insisting that she had nothing to feel guilty about, expressing her relief that Hajime was safe.
Eventually, Hajime calmed down and drifted off to sleep.
. . .
Arriving back at the Manor, Akane found herself home alone and earlier than usual. Byakuya welcomed her, but she quickly retreated to her room, feeling drained from her journey. Although both she and Hajime were well into their pregnancies, Akane's belly was noticeably larger, and her fatigue had been mounting lately.
Sensing a cloud of concern hanging over Byakuya, she questioned about his troubles. He, not wanting to burden her further, brushed off his feelings, attributing them to the pressures of his Captaincy.
To help Akane unwind, he set up a soothing bath and brewed her some tea. Watching him dote on her in a way she had longed for over the years stirred a sense of guilt within her. I'm carrying another man's child… What should I do now?
"Akane," he spoke softly, "Is there anything else I can assist you with?"
Reaching for a towel nearby, she offered him a warm smile. "You've already done more than enough." She placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, donned her robe, and began to brush her hair. "I think I'll head to bed now. Do you have any paperwork left to finish?"
"Yes. But I shouldn't take too long."
"That's perfectly fine," she replied. "Feel free to take your time."
As Akane made her way back to the barracks to finish up the day's paperwork, she pulled some stationery from her vanity drawer. She began to pen a letter to Hiro, which read:
My dearest Hiro,
I trust this note finds you well. During my recent visit to Taira, I discovered where you've been residing. I hope my curiosity doesn't upset you. There's something important I must share with you, though the consequences may be considerable. Do you remember the dreams we had of running away together in our youth? We were naive, yet so profoundly in love. Time and again, I've prioritized my Kingdom over my heart, but now… I've made a different choice—I choose you… and our family. Yes, you read that right. I've recently learned that this baby truly belongs to you. I can't take him away from you. I plan to reveal my truth to the Kuchiki Elders shortly, and a divorce will follow swiftly. We only have my mother's fury to face. But with you beside me and this child to cherish, I'd do anything to protect our family.
With all my love,
Akane
After sealing the envelope, Akane summoned Hajime. She learned that she was currently under care at Squad Four's Barracks, with no indication of when she would return. Entrusting the letter to Mikasa, Akane requested it be sent discreetly first thing in the morning.
"Of course, Akane-Sama." With a respectful bow, Mikasa wished Akane a good night and resumed her evening responsibilities.
. . .
Several days have gone by since Hajime was admitted to the hospital, and she remains as lost and withdrawn as Rukia last saw her. She has been avoiding any interaction, turning away visitors and spending her time either gazing vacantly out the window or dozing off for most of the day.
One morning, after waking from a deep sleep, she noticed Byakuya gently tucking the sheets around her. Startled, he offered her a warm smile and assisted her in sitting up. "How are you feeling, Kisumoto-San?" he asked, concern etched on his face.
Gazing into his eyes, Hajime regretted not confessing to him sooner. She lowered her gaze, nervously fiddling with her fingers, thinking it was time to come clean. She had caused him enough pain already. "Kuchiki-Sama," she murmured, "Do you recall a few days ago when I mentioned needing to discuss something important with you?"
"Yes, but you shouldn't worry about that now. Concentrate on your recovery. Unohana Taichou hasn't shared the details with me, but is everything okay?" The worry in his eyes pierced her heart.
"No," she replied, her voice trembling, "nothing is okay…" As he placed his hand over hers, he felt her tears fall onto the back of his hand. Meeting his gaze, she confessed, "I… We were expecting a baby…"
His reaction was one of shock, leaving him momentarily speechless. Reflecting on their intimate night together, he hadn't considered the possibility of her being pregnant. Then the word "were" slipped from his lips.
Just as they were about to delve deeper into the conversation, Unohana knocked and entered the room. Byakuya swiftly withdrew his hand, attempting to steady himself. She brought news about Hajime's blood test results and cast a glance at Byakuya, hesitating to disclose the information. "It's fine," Hajime encouraged, "He knows… Feel free to share anything in front of Kuchiki Taichou."
"Very well," Unohana began, "Upon reviewing your results, we discovered traces of exceptionally rare substances that may appear harmless individually, but when mixed, can lead to devastating long-term consequences. Unfortunately, your pregnancy has been terminated, and all your eggs are now rendered nonviable."
"So you're saying—"
"I... can't have any more children?"
"I am truly sorry, Kisumoto-San." Hajime sank deeper into the hospital bed, trying to block out Unohana's words. Byakuya glanced at her with concern. As Unohana excused herself from the room, she offered Byakuya a sympathetic nod.
Byakuya reached for her hand, sitting in silence.
"Maybe this is for the best," she said, meeting his gaze, "after all," her voice trembled, "my father's blood runs through me."
"You are nothing like your father," Byakuya replied.
"Oh? I'm just like him." Her eyes were hollow, "I couldn't protect my child."
Byakuya tightened his grip on her hand, his jaw clenched, "Why didn't you tell me earlier? I could have been there for you. I could have—"
"How could I?" Her voice faltered, "You and Akane are married, and you're expecting a child together. I couldn't do that to either of you."
"Akane," he said, a sudden clarity washing over him. How could he possibly convey this to her?
"You need to be with her," her voice quivered, "Stay with your family."
"Hajime," he implored, his tone sharp and desperate.
"Please," she replied, her lip trembling as she fought to maintain her composure, "I just need some time to myself."
Respecting her wish, Byakuya gradually released her hands and made his way back to the Manor. Alone in her silence, Hajime curled up and stared blankly out the window, tears streaming down her cheeks.
. . .
Upon returning to Kuchiki Manor, Byakuya found Akane in the garden, lost in the beauty of the flowers. He couldn't help but notice her radiant glow. When she caught sight of him, a smile lit up her face.
As he approached her, he gently placed his hand on her belly and pressed a kiss to her forehead.
Seeing the sadness etched on his face, she asked about his worries. He led her to a nearby bench, took her hands in his, and prepared to share something important.
"I just got some news," Byakuya started, "And it's only fair that I share the truth with you."
Fearful that he might have uncovered the paternity results, Akane felt a wave of anxiety wash over her. "W-what is it?"
"Akane..." His brow furrowed, and he struggled to meet her gaze. "On the night of the ball a few months ago, I spent the night with Kisumoto-San. I've just learned that she was expecting our child."
"W-wait, what did you just say?"
"Sadly... the baby is gone." Akane's heart shattered at his revelation. To lose not one but two… If he were to find out now that this baby isn't his, it would destroy him.
"K-Kisumoto... How is she?" Akane gently stroked her belly, imagining the heartache Hajime must be enduring.
"She's holding up as well as one might expect." As the pair sat quietly, Akane gently took his hand and squeezed it. "I appreciate you sharing that with me. And please, there's no resentment towards you or Kisumoto."
"But—" Before Byakuya could finish, she placed her finger against his lips and shook her head. Her face was a picture of inner turmoil.
Thoughts raced through her mind: I must tell him… I can't betray him like this… He has always been so kind; he deserves to know… This could shatter him completely…
"B-Byakuya-Sama, there's something important I need to confess—!"
"Akane!" Akihiko's voice cut through from across the garden, having taken a stroll. After the previous tense encounter between Byakuya and Akihiko, Akihiko could continue to stay at the Manor, but with the stipulation that she was never to be alone with Akane.
Oh no… she thought, pulling away and heading towards her mother. Following Akihiko was Tomiko, tasked with monitoring Akihiko and ensuring Akane's safety.
With a respectful bow to Byakuya, Akihiko informed him that she was treating Akane to a spa day to help her relax, noticing how worn out she had been lately. She assured him that Tomiko would accompany them.
"You can stay back, Akane," Byakuya insisted gently.
"It's alright," she replied, her smile warm, "I can't do any of this without my mother."
Before they left, they made a brief stop at Akihiko's room. Akihiko quickly slammed the door behind her as she pulled Akane inside. "What in the world do you think you're doing?!" Akihiko demanded; her voice laced with anger. "You can't possibly be considering telling Byakuya-Sama the truth!"
"He deserves to know!" she shot back defiantly.
"No, he doesn't!" Akihiko retorted sharply. "You won't ruin the purpose of this marriage so easily. You will follow my orders and keep pretending that your child belongs to him!"
With her teeth clenched, she replied fiercely, "Kisumoto… Did you know Kisumoto was pregnant? And that it was his child?"
Taken aback that Akane was aware, Akihiko realized there was no point in denying it. "Yes. And as I've said before, I had to clean up your mess, as always."
Tears welled in her eyes as she continued, "So you… you're the reason she lost her child?"
"Oh?" Akihiko said with a sinister grin, "Are you suggesting the elixir finally did what it was supposed to?"
"How could you?" she asked, her voice trembling with despair.
"How could I? How could I?" Akihiko scoffed. "Who else would protect this secret of yours? If anyone discovered your affair and the pregnancy, we'd be out on the streets. Our reputation would be ruined, and that would be the end for us. I won't allow that to happen. And you have no say in this," she said, pulling a letter from her kimono sleeve. "You think writing to Hiro will free you from this marriage?"
Akane's face went pale with shock as she glanced at Tomiko, who couldn't meet her eyes.
"Do you think Tomiko is loyal to you? She's mine. And she dutifully delivered this letter from your precious Hiro. Oh, I could share all the sweet nothings he wrote to you," she said, striding to the fireplace and tossing the letter into the flames, "but I won't."
Fists clenched, Akane finally declared, "I-I'm not going to do this anymore."
"What did you just say?"
"I'm finished with the pretense and the lies. I'm going to the Kuchiki Elders and I will tell Byakuya-Sama the truth!"
"No way you are!" With a firm grip on her wrist, Akihiko delivered a sharp slap to Akane's face. Stumbling, Akane collapsed onto the floor. Tomiko hurried to her side, attempting to soothe Akihiko's frayed nerves.
"Akihiko-Sama!" Tomiko implored.
"Are you going to interfere, Tomiko?"
"If anything happens to Akane-Sama, Kuchiki-Sama might start to suspect something. I don't think Akane-Sama fully understands what she's saying. Just give her a moment to gather her thoughts. She's likely in shock right now."
"You're fortunate I'm feeling lenient today," Akihiko retorted as she stormed out of the room.
As Tomiko helped Akane to her feet, Akane looked at her with disappointment. "Tomiko, how long has she been making threats against you?"
With her eyes downcast, Tomiko confessed, "It's been several months."
"What did she force you to do?"
Taking a deep breath, Tomiko recounted everything she had been involved in. Although she was unaware of the elixirs' true nature, she never anticipated such serious consequences.
With a heavy sigh, Akane vowed to keep her secret safe. "Keep your head down, Tomiko. If this job means a lot to you, no one can find out what you've done. My mother needs allies, so she's unlikely to turn on you. But once she has you in her grip, escaping becomes nearly impossible."
"Is everything she said true?"
"Yes," Akane replied, her voice heavy with defeat, "it's all true."
As her world began to unravel, Tomiko realized her crucial part in the unfolding events. Overwhelmed by guilt, her hands trembled, and her head spun.
"It's not your fault," Akane reassured her, "My mother is the real culprit. Don't worry."
"A-Akane-Sama… I…"
"Leave," Akane instructed her firmly. "Return to your duties. I'll handle my mother."
As Tomiko exited the room, she headed off to find Akihiko. With each step, her mind replayed the events that had unfolded: the clinking of champagne glasses at the anniversary celebration, the tea she had served to Hajime, the heartbreaking news of Hajime's lost child, and the shocking revelation that Hajime was expecting Byakuya's baby. Overwhelmed, Tomiko rushed back to her room, frantically searching through her nightstand. She grabbed the two vials Akihiko had entrusted to her, knowing they might prove useful, and dashed toward Squad Six's Barracks.
"Captain," Renji announced as he entered his superior's chambers, with Tomiko close behind. "She says she has something important to talk to you about." Gasping for breath, Tomiko clutched the vials tightly and exclaimed, "Kuchiki-Sama, I have something crucial to share with you!"