It was a long day for Grimmjow yesterday.
Five minutes after Hiromi had left, Mr. Hat & Clogs immediately put Grimmjow to work. And by work, Kisuke meant chores. Grimmjow had bristled at the mere thought of touching a broom or putting a girly apron on to wash dishes. He was not cut out for that! The little runt, Jinta, was better suited for domestic housework than him, anyway. Little Ururu would have happily obliged in doing them for him, but damnit, Grimmjow is not exactly sexist. He knows women do that kind of stuff because it's part of their daily lives. But Grimmjow knows women can hold their own, too. Hiromi has proven that, even Tier Harribel. He wouldn't dare say anything about women "knowing their place" when the Tres Espada can obliterate him in one swoop. Hiromi would lecture his ass to death. He may be rude, but he will show some respect to a strong woman.
Other than the typical house chores he did with much displeasure and actually made the place look spotless, Kisuke put him through an intense training session. Now, that was something Grimmjow was more than happy to do. Phew that wore him out for sure. He needed it, though. Hiromi may have wanted him to rest to regain his strength, but Kisuke's method sped up the healing process. Grimmjow laughed like a maniac from the excitement he felt just fighting someone. Well, it's more like something. Kisuke wouldn't allow him to use any of his abilities or techniques on an actual person. He wasn't dumb. Grimmjow was strictly limited to dummies. That irritated the former Sexta Espada to no end. However, he enjoyed himself by obliterating them into a million pieces.
After completing all those chores along with his training, Grimmjow slept like a rock that night. And dreamed. He can't remember the last time he dreamed of anything other than the few fever dreams he had. Those were gnarly and freaky. Last night, though, the memory of his time with Hiromi in Hueco Mundo filtered through his mind. That really was the turning point in their relationship. He learned to trust her then, especially when she returned to where she left him unharmed. No doubt a shinigami came and helped her, which he is glad about. He wonders who the dude was, but Hiromi didn't elaborate.
Pfft, whatever, he said to himself.
Upon waking this morning, he fully planned on encouraging Urahara to get the mod-soul dolls into the training room. He learned when they are out of their doll forms, they can help him make his training more challenging for him. Mr. Hat & Clogs wanted Grimmjow to continue working with the dummies, but damnit, Grimmjow needs something more.
Except that is not his mission right now. He has another idea to run by the oddball.
Grimmjow walked down the hall wearing blue striped pajama pants and an oversized tee with a yellow smiley face Urahara gave him to sleep in. Yeah, he gave the oddball a weird look. Although, it is a little better than what Hiromi had provided for him before. She gifted him Hello Kitty sleep pants once, just for kicks. He wore them, though, despite the pattern. It was quite comfy, actually.
Before long, Grimmjow found Mr. Hat & Clogs sitting in his den with a bowl of Tamago Kake Gohan. His mouth watered at the sight of the breakfast Hiromi had made for him one too many times. It's one of his favorites besides the onigiri grilled with scrambled egg and ham.
"Could I get a bowl of that?" Grimmjow asked as he stood in the doorway.
Kisuke looked up from his breakfast and grinned at Grimmjow.
"Well, good morning. Did you rest easy?"
Grimmjow frowns.
"Oh, come now. I gave you that shirt for a reason, Grimmjow."
His frown deepened.
"If you want me to smile more, it would come across as a snarl than anything else."
"Are you always this jolly in the morning?" Kisuke asked, then took a bite of rice.
"I'm not much of a cheerful person to begin with, given what I am and who I was previously affiliated with."
"Happiness comes within, Grimmjow. And being around the right people, too."
Kisuke then pointed to the spot before him, directing Grimmjow to sit.
Grimmjow did as instructed without complaints despite the deepening scowl. Once he was fully seated and comfortable, Kisuke called out to Ururu.
"Ururu, please bring our guest a bowl of Tessai's yummy Tamago Kake Gohan?"
They can faintly hear her reply, of course, from another room, giving Grimmjow his opening.
"Um, there's something I want to run by you," Grimmjow started as he stared at the table.
"I'm not letting the mod-soul dolls make your training more challenging, Grimmjow."
Grimmjow groans, and his fingers curled, gripping his pants.
"Oh, come on, I won't hurt them! Promise. Besides, the dummies are boring me."
"After one day, they're boring you when they're not supposed to. My answer remains the same. They are not to get involved."
"Ugh, fine! Spoilsport," Grimmjow grunted with arms crossed.
He stared at the wood grain, his frown a permanent entity on his face.
After a moment in silence, Grimmjow spoke again.
"But that's not what I want to talk to you about."
Kisuke looks up from his bowl. He observes the frown lines on Grimmjow's face, along with the pensive look he has.
"Oh?"
"I've been thinking about Hiromi since she left. In all honesty, it's weird not being around her."
He didn't see it, but Kisuke softly smiled, then settled his chopsticks on his stand.
"I understand this is all new to you, especially when you don't have your friend near."
"Yeah, I guess, but I almost feel like there is something more since she kissed my cheek."
Kisuke's smile widens.
"A peck can mean a lot of things, you know. But if you want it to be more, ask her first if that is what she wants. I won't give you my blessing since I don't know you well enough."
"Well, I figured that much since you are like a father figure to her."
At that moment, Ururu came into the room and presented Grimmjow with the rice and egg dish, along with a small plate of banana slices and grapes.
"Looks good, thanks," he ended up saying without thinking.
Did I seriously thank the little girl!?
Ururu smiled. "You're welcome, Mr. Jaegerjaquez."
Grimmjow's brow twitched, and a corner of his mouth turned downward.
"Huh?"
Kisuke pressed his lips to hold back a snicker.
"Oh, um, I refer to my employer as Mr. Urahara, so I figured I'd call you by yours. I can call you by name if you prefer."
Grimmjow stared at the girl with slightly widened eyes.
"I would prefer if you call me by my name, or you can call me Jack. I don't care either way. Just don't call me mister girly."
Ururu offered him a friendly smile.
"Okay. Enjoy your meal, Jack," she replies with a bow, then leaves him and Kisuke alone.
Grimmjow watched her leave, a little taken by the name. He hadn't been referred by his surname before, yet it had been a long time since anyone called him Jack. He vaguely remembers being called that when he was human in the past. Only real good friends called him Jack. As he sat reminiscing, he felt warmth bloom in his chest.
"It's strange, isn't it?" Kisuke says before he takes another bite of breakfast.
Grimmjow looks at him dumbfounded.
"What is strange?"
The smile Kisuke provided him was warm and kind, causing his chest to constrict.
"What being around people who are kinder can do to you. Kindness influences people, after all. So, what is it you wanted to talk to me about? Apparently, it has something to do with Hiromi. Am I right?"
Grimmjow blinked away his astonishment when he remembered the idea he had.
"Oh, it does. I'm not sure what you gave Hiromi to protect her from the hollow. I don't think it will do much good."
"I know it won't be much since it is just a medallion to ward off hollows."
"Well, have you ever thought about her spirit energy since it is unusually strong?"
Kisuke's lips curved downward a little.
"Um."
"I take that as a no. I know you're working on a gigai to hide me, but can you make something similar that can limit, or even suppress, her spirit energy?"
Kisuke's head tilted slightly.
"But wouldn't that be a little, I don't know, too noticeable?"
"I'm not talking about a gigai. I'm thinking of something much smaller and that she can wear."
"To wear?"
"Yeah, like a piece of jewelry. I noticed she wears earrings every day and sometimes doesn't even take them off. What if you made a pair of earrings that can conceal her spirit energy?"
Kisuke hums.
"I don't see why not. I'm curious, though. Why?"
Grimmjow stared at him briefly before grabbing his breakfast and shoveled some egg and rice into his mouth.
"Why else?" He replied after a couple of mouthfuls. "For one, it's protecting her from hollows. Second, it can keep any of my previous colleagues from finding her. She has a strong spiritual energy. It's like a freaking beacon. Third, I want to protect her the best way I can. Plus, it can be a little gift after everything she has done for me."
Kisuke stared at Grimmjow, surprised at his reasoning for crafting an energy-suppressing accessory for someone he cared about. He will take it as a sign that Kisuke doesn't have to worry about the arrancar hurting Hiromi and that he is willing to change.
"It will probably take a while to craft, but it can be done. I'll see what I can work up and get that started as soon as possible."
Grimmjow smiles through a mouthful of rice, excitement gleaming in his eyes.
"Awesome," he muffled, then swallowed. "Also, I want to_."
He doesn't get to finish when he hears voices near the front of the shop.
"Um, are you expecting someone?"
Kisuke abruptly stood.
"Shoot, I forgot I had a meeting with the shinigami this morning. Although it seems a little early for it."
Grimmjow glances over at Kisuke, his brows drawn together and a mouthful of rice.
"Come again."
Kisuke sighed heavily, then quickly came to Grimmjow's side and pulled him up just as fast.
"I can't have you sitting in here gorging yourself. I need you to head down to the training room you were in yesterday and wait out my meeting."
Grimmjow's lips curve downward and grind to a stop.
"Yeah, fat chance," he snapped and took another bite. "I can get rid of them, you know."
"And risk having one of the other four strike you down? Yeah, I don't think so. You have about sixty seconds to leave before they see you, Grimmjow."
"So what if they do?"
"Let me put this into perspective, then. If the shinigami finds you here, I will be the one in trouble. I am hiding a supposed enemy under my roof, you know. They will take both of us, along with Tessai, Jinta, and Ururu, into custody. Our absence will then leave Hiromi vulnerable. Do you want that?"
Grimmjow opened his mouth to argue but knew it was pointless. Especially when he mentioned Hiromi. She had already done enough for him, and the last thing he wanted to do was leave her defenseless. Grimmjow also had the passing thought of her getting caught in all of this and being treated like a criminal. He doesn't want that for her. She'll hate him for being stubborn and getting everyone who has helped him so far into trouble.
Kisuke is right.
He sighed heavily, then quietly, yet slowly headed out of the room.
"Ugh, fine. I'll leave. For Hiromi's sake."
Kisuke smiled under his striped hat.
"Good. Thirty seconds now."
Grimmjow quickened his pace.
He exited the room with his breakfast in hand and bored out of his mind.
"The dolls are coming with me," he says before turning a corner.
"Like hell they are," Kisuke whispered harshly.
Even when he said they weren't, the little dolls followed Grimmjow.
"Yippie, company," the little bird doll, Ririn, squeaked.
Noba and Kurōdo quickly followed.
Kisuke glared at them as they disappeared.
"Don't do anything stupid," he mumbled under his breath.
He turned to welcome his guests, but they soon found him.
"Oh, there you are," Ichigo said as he saw Kisuke.
"Ah, Ichigo, what brings you here?"
I'm sure glad Grimmjow left when he did. He would have gone ballistic if he saw Ichigo.
"He insisted on accompanying us to our meeting, Mr. Urahara," Captain Hitsugaya replies as he sauntered into the room with arms crossed.
"So what if I wanted to come along?"
"You're supposed to be training with the Visored, moron," Renji snipped.
Ichigo groans while glaring daggers at the shinigami.
"I needed a damn break," he snarled while Ikkaku and Rangiku entered.
They said nothing as they sat themselves down but did glance around the room. Rangiku noticed the plate of bananas and grapes, smiling happily at the fruit dish.
"Ooh, mind if I have these?"
Kisuke stared at her momentarily, silently cursing at Grimmjow for not bringing his side dish.
"Go right ahead," he replies. "Sorry for the early meeting."
"It's fine. I would rather have it this time of day to get it out of the way. What exactly is this meeting about?" Captain Hitsugaya questioned as he watched Rangiku feast on the fruit plate.
"There have been some developments since you all have been stationed here."
"Developments?"
Kisuke hums.
"Yep, and some information got leaked, as well."
"Oh. About what?"
"Apparently, an arrancar has abandoned his position with Aizen's army."
Captain Hitsugaya, along with the others, stared at him, perplexed.
"Meaning they left? Why?"
"Not really sure why, but they're somewhere around here."
"Do we know which one it is?"
Kisuke hums again, then glances over at Ichigo.
"I have an idea of who it might be, but I'm not a hundred percent certain."
Ichigo abruptly stood from where he sat, snarling fiercely.
"If it is that asshole Grimmjow, I want to know where he is. I have a score to settle with that jerk!"
Renji rolls his eyes and leans against the wall.
"If he is here, he's most likely holed up with some unfortunate human."
Ichigo growls.
"Only if they can see him, of course," Rangiku replies. "You're telling us this because you think they might have some information for us?"
"That, and questions why they decided to leave. I mean, it is rather odd that one of them quits before a grand battle."
"Maybe they didn't want to feel defeated or get killed."
"I want to kill him," Ichigo grumbled.
Rangiku ignores him.
"Before we get started, can we get some breakfast?"
"How can you think of food at a time like this?" Her captain questioned.
"What? I'm hungry."
"Still? You ate before we came here, though," Renji says.
"It was a small meal that I scrounged up. Are you not hungry still?"
He would have answered no if his stomach hadn't growled.
Kisuke chuckles as he approaches the doorway.
"Excuse me, Ururu, can you bring us some bowls of Tamago Kake Gohan for our guests, please?"
"Certainly," she replies from across the way.
"You really don't need to have her bring us anything," the captain replies despite his own growling stomach.
"No, I do. It's me being hospitable. Now concerning that arrancar…"
During the exchange, Ikkaku kept silent. He knows which arrancar is here and who he is with... before. But he didn't want to say anything without Yumichika to back him up. If he were to say anything, they would ask questions and want proof. Ikkaku also didn't want to discuss his encounter with Hiromi without Yumichika either.
Ikkaku then started looking around the room and concentrated on the sounds within the shop. He was hoping to hear some footfall from his friend but heard nothing. When Ikkaku woke up this morning, he discovered Yumichika missing. The cot was rolled up and leaned against the wall while the pillow and the blanket sat beside it. He checked the kitchen to see if there was a note of his whereabouts but saw nothing.
After a moment of half-listening, he finally voiced his confusion.
"Sorry for butting in, but where the hell is Yumichika?"
Kisuke stopped talking when he realized Yumichika's absence.
"Huh? He didn't come with you?"
Ikkaku's brow twitched downward, glaring at him.
"No, he decided to get some air. Of course, he didn't come with us, dumbass. Why do you think I was asking?"
Rangiku cups her chin with a hum.
"And usually, you two are conjoined at the hip. Did you two have an argument?"
Ikkaku glowered with a slight snarl.
"No, we didn't have an argument. I didn't see him at all this morning."
Kisuke frowns at the lack of Yumichika's absence.
"Well, that's unfortunate. I don't want to discuss anything twice. So, we'll wait until everyone is here."
Captain Histugaya lightly growls while tapping his knee with a finger.
"So we rushed over here for nothing?"
"Not particularly. We can discuss other matters, you know."
"I guess," he ventured.
Rangiku looked between the two, curiosity overwhelming her.
"Hmm, I wonder where he is," Rangiku questions aloud.
… around that same time
Yumichika wakes from his deep slumber from a pleasant smell wafting in his nostrils. He's not sure what it was, but it smelled heavenly and rejuvenating.
He exhaled deeply as his eyes slid open. His vision is greeted by an unfamiliar wall and scents that don't belong in a teenager's room. Confused but not panicking yet, Yumichika slowly sat up and observed his surroundings. The walls are mostly bare and an atrocious beige. Hues of blues and greens decorate the room, with a bonsai tree placed on a Japanese sideboard near the bedroom door. Above is a traditional cherry blossom painting with the Kanji symbols for hope and rebirth on the bottom left corner. His lips curved into a gentle smile once Yumichika realized he was not at Keigo's but at Hiromi's.
That's right, I came here; he says to himself.
He flung his legs over the bed, then stood to his feet, trudging forward to greet her.
Yumichika stopped short when he realized he was shirtless. Why is he? He doesn't quite remember.
He blinks and then gazes around for his lavender shirt, which he eventually locates it on a hanger by the door. Yumichika is confused about the placement. He vaguely remembers now he had thrown it somewhere upon entering the spare room.
Did she? Yumichika questioned once something else caught his attention.
A comfortable, slate gray yukata hung next to his freshly ironed shirt. He is used to that and prefers it. It may not be the color he likes, but beggars can't be choosers, especially when the hostess is generous enough to lend him some clothing. He hastily snatches it and wraps it around himself, comfort overwhelming him instantly. Although it is a little too big for him, it will do.
"Ah, this is much better than that constricting modern c…," he trails off from a sound.
Well, it was more like someone cursing. He then heard what sounded like a pan grating against a burner.
Curious, Yumichika strides out of the spare bedroom to check on Hiromi.
Once he exited the hallway, he started towards the kitchen, only to stop in his tracks.
He sees Hiromi at the counter, forming something in her hands, but that does not catch his attention. Yumichika is quite taken by Hiromi's exposed thighs from wearing her jinbei still. He knew she was a fairly attractive female but never really took the time to take in her physical attributes. He watched how she swayed in her spot as if dancing to a soundless melody. Her lean and toned legs rippled with each slow movement. His gaze slid upwards, avoiding not to stare long at her ample, peachy rear. He mentally measured the circumference of her hips, waist, and chest, noting Hiromi has a shapely hourglass figure. The tie from the jinbei enhances that feature.
His heart flutters wildly in his ribcage at the sight of her. Especially when the sunlight filtered through the window and cast highlights in her hair and along her slender neck.
Hiromi's swaying stopped suddenly, and her shoulders tensed as he stared admiringly at her from behind. It puzzled him initially, but he quickly realized he had stared far too long for Hiromi to notice.
He quickly diverted his gaze to the counter once she started looking in his direction, hiding the flush on his cheeks.
Crap!
"Ohayo," she greeted him in a cheery voice.
He looks up at her then, catching the friendly smile on her lips, and her captivating eyes seem to sparkle from the morning light.
"Ohayo," he managed through the dryness of his mouth with a slight nod of his head. A flicker of a smirk crossed his lips that went unseen.
Yumichika approached the tiny island and sat on a stool, watching Hiromi return to her task. He glances at the countertop, counting five white balls awaiting the frying pan.
"What are you making?"
"It's yaki onigiri with ham and scrambled egg."
His brows furrow slightly.
"Grilled? Isn't Onigiri normally served cold or at room temperature, though?"
"Normally, yes, but they are just as good grilled. I tried them once from a food vendor, but they had it stuffed with scallions and miso paste. This will be more filling until lunchtime." Hiromi explains as she finishes her sixth one.
He studies her as Hiromi washed her hands, then reaches for a pot of black liquid and a white ceramic cup.
Hmm, what is that?
"Here you go," she says softly and offers him the cup.
"Um, what is it?"
"Oh, you're probably used to having tea, aren't you? It's coffee. Other than tea, we like to drink this stuff as well. If you prefer a breakfast or matcha green tea, I can make it for you."
Yumichika blinked at her, taking the offered cup. He is more interested in what it would taste like instead of something he is used to, anyway. Besides, this stirred him from his sleep.
"No, that's alright. You don't have to go through the trouble. I'll have this."
"You sure?"
"Positive. The smell of this woke me up anyway," he responds, then takes a sip.
He stared ahead blankly for a second, his lips curving sideways and his brows pinched a little.
"Hmm," he hummed, then took another sip and another, then smiled. "It's quite good, actually."
Hiromi smiled at him when he took another sip, then poured herself a cup.
"I'm glad you like it. I would have to get more, as I'm almost out. I've been drinking about two to three cups a day since I've been taking care of Grimmjow. It's what kept me going, anyway. Did you sleep well?"
Yumichika had settled the cup down and rested his forearms on the counter, hands clasped casually, then leaned forward slightly.
"That's an understatement. I've slept much better here than at that madhouse. I may have to visit here more often. You make better company anyway … and coffee… and the ichigo daifuku you made. It was absolutely delicious. I could have had two more."
He doesn't see it since Hiromi's back is to him, but he can feel her smile.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'm sure Ikkaku was bummed not to have his."
"I would have, but he had already eaten his."
Hiromi glances over her rounded shoulders at him, surprise overwhelming her face.
"He did? Did he like it?"
Yumichika felt his lips turn downward into a frown.
"I suppose he did. He didn't say anything to me about it."
She looked away from him to hide her disappointed frown and placed the rice balls in a large skillet, sizzling instantly upon contact. She immediately left the stove to approach her freezer. Yumichika watched her reach in and grab a sheet pan containing the very last daifuku ball. She settled the pan down and approached him, handing the frozen treat before him.
"Here, you have it."
He blinks at the wax-wrapped treat and then glances at her.
"It should be yours."
"You would think, but I already ate three of them yesterday. I had a sugar crash because I fell asleep on my sofa after you and Ikkaku left. Unfortunately, I'm a stress eater. So, I don't need it. You deserve it."
"Huh? Why do I deserve it?"
She was silent for a moment, turning away to tend to the onigiri and hide the blush on her cheeks.
"Well, um," she replied, scratching at her cheek.
Yumichika stared at her for a moment when he finally understood her hesitation.
He remembers now.
Yumichika doesn't know why he did this, but he carried Hiromi to bed. Why? He doesn't have a clue. He was a little foggy after he ate that sleep aid. So, maybe, which is a possibility, that his actions to carry the generous woman to her bed were out of tiredness. Maybe even kindness, since Hiromi did grant him room to stay the night and rest easier. It was a generous thing to do for his hostess since she was stumbling herself. Frankly, she didn't complain. Hiromi hugged his neck as he performed this completely out-of-character deed. He remembered her breath tingled at his flesh, which sent a strange feeling down his spine. Even the feel of her weight lingered.
Yumichika won't say this out loud to her, but he was tempted to crawl into her bed because he became so unbelievably tired afterward. The sight of her curling under the covers had made his eyes droop and his body sag. Plus, it looked comfy. He resisted the itch to lie down next to her. Instead, he stumbled out of her room and across the hall. The last thing he remembered was kicking off his shoes, tossing his shirt away, then falling onto the mattress. He fell asleep within seconds.
"I carried you to bed, didn't I?"
"You did. I would have never pegged you as … courteous," she teased.
"Hey," he drones, slightly offended. "I can be if I wanted to. I just don't do … that on the norm."
Hiromi smirks.
"Of course. I was messing with you, you know. Maybe the sleep gummies were a bad idea for you to have."
"It wasn't that bad of an idea. I slept wonderfully. I haven't felt this refreshed since being stationed here."
"That bad over there, huh?"
"Like you wouldn't believe. The last thing I remember before leaving the Asano's was Ikkaku shouting for the siblings to shut the hell up."
"Yeah, I can imagine him having the yell of a foghorn," Hiromi smirks.
Yumichika snorts.
"You know, I'm glad you're here," Hiromi admits suddenly.
He looks at her then, noticing her features brightening as they interact. Yumichika wasn't sure how to react or what to say. He stares at her quizzically.
"Yesterday was a hard day for me, and for reasons I'm not ready to discuss yet. Yours and Ikkaku's presence may have been … unexpected but appreciated. Even when I asked you two to leave, I still wanted you here despite the altercation. And for another reason. I didn't want to be alone. So, it was a pleasant surprise to have late company last night, even now. So, thank you. Other than Grimmjow, I have no one else to talk to or comfort me."
"Really? No one," he questions doubtfully. "Not even parents or close friends?"
Hiromi sniffs.
"Nope. Not like I needed them to begin with. I might as well have grown up in an orphanage. My biological parents died in a car wreck when I was four. Good riddance, really. My foster parents weren't that great either. They taught me well but neglected my emotions ... and were sometimes verbally abusive. I could have contacted my sponsor and requested a new place to live, but I didn't want to go through that hassle again."
She shook her head when Hiromi realized she was saying too much. Plus, she didn't want to relive those memories again.
"Sorry, um bad memories. I'm friends with Mizuho and Keigo, but I don't talk to them as much as I used to."
"I know you said you were familiar with them," Yumichika begun, "but I didn't know you were friends. If you don't mind me asking, but why haven't you stayed in touch?"
She gave him a strange look that was borderline depressive and guilty.
"For reasons I don't want to discuss," she says firmly, yet sadly. "Maybe later if I'm comfortable to talk about it. Other than them, I had close friends who were like family to me at one point. That's a whole other topic that requires a deeper level of trust. Just thinking about them brings back unwanted memories."
Yumichika heard the tightness in her voice when she spoke about her guardians. He understood her animosity as he could relate, but he was curious why Hiromi didn't dive deeper into her biological parents. Maybe it's not up for discussion yet or best left alone, which Yumichika will respectfully not question. He hardly remembers his own kin. It's been way too long to remember who they were. He doesn't even speak about them. So, there is some common ground.
Yet, he heard sadness when she talked about her close friends briefly. He doesn't doubt whatever happened is what caused her to lack trust in others. Or there could be a more tragic reason for it instead of a simple stab in the back. Whatever the reason, Yumichika is sure she will open up to him about it when Hiromi is willing to let him in fully. If she ever does.
He wondered if there was a lover at one point but dared not to ask. Yumichika doesn't doubt it, of course, considering how lovely she is and the big heart she obviously possesses. Anyone would be lucky to have her. At least Hiromi learned from the mistakes of others to not be like them. She taught herself to be kind to others despite her hardships.
Yet Hiromi learned to build her defenses when in the company of people like himself. She apparently knows he's a narcissist, and Yumichika is aware of her silent discovery. If she were smart, Hiromi would ignore him completely instead of befriending him. Except it seems she is willing to dance with the self-important feminine man he can be. Why she is bothering is a mystery to him. Is she hoping to change him? He won't change. Maybe she wants someone, anyone, to connect with and keep her safe. Now, that is a possibility.
Yumichika ran through the possibility of the other shinigami Hiromi could connect with instead of himself. Ikkaku is out of the question since the dumbass intimidated her for answers once they were acquainted. Although, he wondered what their discussion was before they left. Yumichika won't think about it too much, though. He doesn't think Captain Hitsugaya would be a good choice because he might be too young to understand Hiromi's troubles. Renji will most likely want to mooch off of her and not want to dive into those problems. Rangiku might be a better choice, but Yumichika doesn't doubt Hiromi would feel uncomfortable around her. Rangiku can be a hard ass. Plus, Hiromi might feel self-conscious about herself since the blonde is bustier than her. The only person who can get close enough to Hiromi is him. He hopes to get the information he needs about where the arrancar is.
Yumichika remained quiet for that long moment, debating what he could say to sound sympathetic. What is there to say exactly? "Sorry to hear that. I can relate." Yeah, that's not very comforting, to say, at least in his opinion. Empathy doesn't come easy to him, anyway. Hiromi deserves something to give her some form of comfort and understanding, not to find common ground. They can build that over time with some patience.
Besides, he's beginning to like the friendly, beautiful woman despite his current objectives. Especially since he feels bad that she is alone in all of this. Maybe even understood it. She is basically living in solitude, which is undoubtedly not what she wants. Isolation and depression can do a lot to people, and they usually end up in a much worse state than Hiromi is in right now. If he were in that position, it would certainly break him. He would have no one to focus on him. For Hiromi, though, she needs love to thrive and spread kindness. He doesn't doubt she will spare the same sentiment with him to prove his worth. Three years of having no one to reciprocate is killing her. He can see that clear as day.
"It sounds like you've been living the solitary life," he says finally, his voice low and sounded genuinely sympathetic. "It must be lonely for you not to have anyone to provide any sort of comfort or support."
"It is, actually. There are colleagues from the school I could probably talk to or even the therapist I used to see." Her nose wrinkles at this. "But I'd rather not. The guy gave me the creeps. Especially when he made a couple of advances on me that were quite unprofessional. I probably should have reported the fucking sleazebag."
Yumichika said nothing except stare.
I know I would have! He wanted to shout.
"Pardon my language. Anyway, I know no one at my work would understand what I had gone through three years ago. Plus, I don't trust most of them with sensitive topics. Some women and men like to gossip and would spread the word."
"Well, that's certainly unprofessional on both accounts. I would have slugged the cretin if I was in your position, Generous Beauty."
"I actually would have done just that if his male office assistant hadn't walked in. I guess it was a good thing I didn't. Otherwise, I would have been charged with assault."
"Except you would have a good reason for putting up a fight. You know, if you need someone to talk to, you can come to me if you like."
Hiromi pauses her movements, then glances over her shoulder slightly and gives him a cryptic smile.
"I appreciate the offer, Yumichika. I really do, but I think your advice won't be as genuine as you think it would be."
Yumichika said nothing afterward, just stared at the countertop as a tinge of pink graced his cheeks.
Damnit, he cursed.
When he couldn't think of anything else after she basically shut him down, Yumichika zipped his meat hole. Although, he feels like he's getting somewhere with her when she revealed a little more about herself. That's when an idea popped into his mind.
He drew the frozen treat towards him, gently tapping it as he contemplated further.
I wonder, he started in his head.
"I have … an idea I would like to run by you if that is okay?"
Hiromi glances over her shoulder at him, who is placing hot yaki onigiri on a plate of nori.
"I might shoot it down, but go ahead."
He smiles as he holds the frozen daifuku in his palm, enjoying the coolness.
This is going to be harder than I thought. Damnit!
"Hear me out. I assure you, I have no ill intentions. I get the feeling you don't enjoy being alone, especially when you have a blasted hollow following your every move."
"Well, that's an understatement. I don't know why you didn't just eradicate the asshole."
"I would have, but you were right."
Hiromi smirked victoriously, which he hated, but she actually looked cute with it, especially when her dimples showed that are not exactly even.
"Believe me, I don't say that often, and I know what you're doing, too."
She continued to hold that cute, victorious smirk he was beginning to love to hate.
"Whatever do you mean?"
He groans in response.
"Look," he started with a slight snarl as he tapped the countertop. "I'm trying to offer some sort of arrangement with you."
Her smile instantly drops, but she gives him a weird glare.
"Oh?"
"I told you before that I have temporary living arrangements with the Asano's since I've been stationed here with Ikkaku. While I don't mind them, it really does get tiresome in that freaking madhouse."
"Let me guess, Keigo and Mizuho's bickering."
"Yes! It's almost every single night! How does one get any sleep under their roof when the sister complains about such trivial things? Keigo is no better. If Ikkaku is involved, it gets even worse. He is easily tempered … especially when he's made fun of because of his shaved head. Not to mention Mizuho's blatant crush on said shaven idiot. Ugh, her voice can get sickly sweet that it's nauseating."
Hiromi forces herself to smirk, hoping to keep herself from frowning, and she is successful—to a degree.
Of course, Mizuho has a crush on him, she says to herself bitterly. I wonder if he likes her.
She clears her throat before saying anything.
"Okay, what are you suggesting here?"
She comes around the island to sit next to him somewhat stiffly and sets a plate of yaki onigiri in front of him, then pours a little more coffee into his cup.
Yumichika quickly noticed the suspicion, even the disappointment in her tone, but it would not deter him.
"Your suspicion is warranted, Generous Beauty. I assure you, I don't have an ulterior motive."
He noticed Hiromi roll her eyes.
"Everyone has an ulterior motive, Yumichika. And how do I know for sure? You may say you don't, but words are meaningless without action."
He ignores his breakfast for a moment to regard Hiromi fully.
"You're right … and don't give me that cute smirk," he warned lightheartedly. "Words are meaningless without proper action. It may be words right now, mostly because my action would appear imposing."
Hiromi stares at him with a quirked brow.
"Okay, color me intrigued. What is this idea you have, Pretty Boy?"
Yumichika makes an odd sound, flushing deeply from the name. He wanted to say something but didn't know what could be said. Instead, he coughs and ignores the name.
"Well, I think it's more on the lines of a proposition. Would you be opposed if I stayed with you while I'm on assignment here? You know, to give you some company and keep you safe from the hollow?"
Hiromi stared at him as she held onto her breakfast. She seemed to consider something since she was searching his gaze for any indicators not to trust him. She turns her gaze off him and takes a bite out of her breakfast.
"I'm starting to feel comfortable with you, and I've let you stay the night. However, I'm not sure if I can trust you to stay here for an extended period of time."
I figured as much, he says to himself,
"That's understandable, but…"
"Besides, I feel there is a catch in there somewhere," she interrupts with a twirl of her finger.
Yumichika felt a little knot in his stomach and lightly scratched his jaw.
Crap! Think, you dumbass!
"Um, there really isn't_."
"Nope," she pops the P. "Most propositions do. If there is something you want in return, Yumichika, say it. I promise I won't get too mad."
She takes another bite while he continues to scratch at his jaw.
"There really isn't a catch, honest. It's more like a simple request."
He holds up the daifuku to her with a timid smile, almost like a peace offering to a deity.
Please let this work, he said to himself.
"Your daifuku, when do you normally make a fresh batch?"
Hiromi blinked and screwed her lips.
"I make them every three or four days. Depending on how much I eat of them, of course. Why do you ask?"
"It's just that these are already delectable when they are thawed, but I would love to have a fresh batch. Could I request the next filling?"
Hiromi stares at him before a devilishly cute and brilliant smile spreads across her lips. Yumichika didn't have to guess what that meant.
"Really? Is that all you want?"
"Eh, yeah. I know it sounds a little odd," he replies while rubbing the back of his neck.
"Not at all. Daifuku is best when it's fresh, anyway. What filling would you like? And you best start eating those; otherwise, they will go cold. They're better when they're hot."
Slightly startled, Yumichika regards the plate in front of him.
"Oh, right," he mumbled, disappointed that she hadn't agreed to his arrangement at that moment. Although he understands her resistance, she is putting up a fight since she is willing to dangerously dance with him.
Patience is a virtue, Yumichika, he tells himself. She'll reveal her friend's whereabouts when she is comfortable enough.
He quickly grabbed an onigiri and took a good bite out of it. His mouth erupted with an explosion of flavor as he chewed almost primly. The crunch from the grilled rice has the right amount of salt, the mildly salty ham is toned down a little from the fluffy yet moist scrambled egg, and a slight fresh taste from a scallion. A wide smile spread across his lips after gulping it down.
She may be beautiful and is onto me, but Generous Beauty is a terrific cook! This is scrumptious.
"I take it from that heavenly smile you like the yaki onigiri," Hiromi comments with a smile herself.
"Oh, very much so. This is delicious. You are a brilliant cook, Generous Beauty," he compliments, then takes another bite, and not so primly this time.
Hiromi shyly smirked and lightly scratched behind her ear as she ate breakfast.
They sat in a comfortable silence for a bit, enjoying their meal. With every second that passed, Yumichika could feel Hiromi becoming more comfortable and ease a little closer to him. He wondered why but dared not to ask. Besides, other than the savory smell of his filling breakfast, Hiromi's perfume of floral and warmth is quite pleasant. In fact, her entire apartment smelled nice and clean. It smelled of calming lavender and earthy sage, a perfect balance to keep anyone grounded and at peace. He felt that way right now. There is another foreign feeling welling up inside his entire being. Yumichika felt … safe, at home even. He has never felt this way with anyone, not even Ikkaku. What makes Hiromi different?
"Persimmons," he blurted, hoping to rid himself of the overwhelming, welcoming feeling.
Hiromi glances at him, her brows pinched.
"Huh, persimmons?"
"You said they are in season, correct?"
"I did. Is that what you would like for my next batch of daifuku?"
"Very much so, please."
Hiromi gives him a smile.
"Okay, persimmons it is. I would have never pegged you for a citrus guy."
"Eh, I like a lot of things. I've tried dried persimmons before, but I find them disgusting. I don't know how Rangiku likes them."
"It's an acquired taste. I don't care for them dried, either. So we have a little something in common. And who is Rangiku? A … girlfriend, maybe?"
Yumichika choked on his bite, gulping it down before a hearty guffaw left his lips.
"Oh, my goodness, no. She's as vain as they come."
"And you're not," Hiromi grinned as she gently poked his shoulder while eating.
He makes an odd sound, frowning slightly at her playful jab.
"No, I'm not … well, maybe a little … or a lot, oh, never mind. Anyway, she's a lieutenant in another division under…."
Yumichika trails off when something finally occurs to him.
Wait, am I forgetting something?
Hiromi stares at him curiously, wondering what he is thinking about. Although, she is inwardly freaking out that there are more shinigami here.
Shit! There's more of them here?
When Yumichika said nothing after a moment, Hiromi became a little nervous.
"Um, you okay there, Yumichika?"
"I, I think so. Although I feel like I'm forgetting something here, but I can't quite place it."
"Hmm, it sounds like the sleep gummy is causing some brain fog."
"No," he argued softly. "No, that's not it. It can't be. It's something important, but I don't know what it is."
Hiromi hums uncomfortably.
"You're stressing yourself over your lapse of memory, Yumichika. I can feel it, you know. So, maybe calm down a bit. Take a slow, deep breath and focus on it."
He looked at her then did as instructed, which instantly relaxed him.
"Sorry, thanks. Maybe you can help me out here?"
"Well, let's see. You were doing fine until you mentioned this Rangiku lady. Is she the only other shinigami here other than you and Ikkaku?"
"No, she's the third out of five of us here."
"Oh, so there are more of you. Will you be able to tell me more about each of them?"
"Well, not specifics, but I can give names. Of course, there's beautiful me." Hiromi rolls her eyes at him at this. "You know Ikkaku already. There's Rangiku, Renji, and Cap … wait. Um, Generous Beauty, what time is it?"
Curious about the change in his demeanor, Hiromi glances over at the large wall clock.
"It's quarter to nine. Why? Do you have someplace_?"
"Oh, crap!"
Hiromi regards him again, finding him cradling his head with his eyes wide and grimacing.
"You have someplace to be, don't you?"
"Yes! I was supposed to meet them at eight! Shit, I'm late! So very late!"
Yumichika rose from the chair much too quickly that he would have toppled backward if Hiromi wasn't there. She swiftly grabbed his shoulder firmly to stabilize him, almost going with him, but kept both of them in place.
"Whoa, careful there. These are bar stools. You could have fallen, including me."
"S-sorry, and thanks. Shit, I need to go!"
Frazzled, Yumichika started for the apartment door until Hiromi called out to him.
"Um, Yumichika. You're not leaving wearing that, are you?"
Confused, Yumichika looks down at himself. He then remembered he was in a night robe with his somewhat wrinkled trousers.
"Oh…, right."
"I ironed your shirt I found on the floor. It's hanging on the door handle of the spare room."
"I saw that. Thank you," Yumichika says as he rushes past her.
Hiromi watched him head towards the room for a second before gathering the breakfast she gave him. She can hear him cursing to himself as he dresses while going around the island to wrap the onigiri in aluminum foil. Within a few minutes, Yumichika comes running back out in a panicked mess.
"Shit, shit, shit! Captain Hitsugaya is going to hang me for this. I'm so freaking late."
"Just tell him you were with a pretty girl last night, and she made you breakfast." Hiromi smiled kindly as she walked out from behind the island and held out his breakfast.
"Ha! That might send him into the hospital from dying of laughter because he won't believe that, even though it is true."
He paused to take the foil-wrapped breakfast and leave, but Hiromi stopped him again, handing him a water bottle and a mint.
"You're going to need something to wash down your breakfast. The mint will also help hide the scent of food on your tongue."
Yumichika blinks at her, surprised she is not mad at him or offended about hiding their time together.
"Um, thanks, I guess. But aren't you … mad at all?"
"What should I be mad about? Your overnight is our secret. No one needs to know about this."
"R-really? You're willing to keep a secret from others?"
"If it will keep you from getting into deeper water with the captain, then yes. I'm an understanding woman, Yumichika, and I can keep secrets, big or small. You can trust me on that."
He stared at her briefly, then smiled brightly.
"Thanks for understanding, Generous Beauty. I'll see you around, I guess."
Yumichika approached the door, swung it open, and was about to step out when Hiromi came up from behind, gently gripping his forearm.
"Wait. Your proposition, I'll give it more thought."
He gaped at her.
Wait, what?
"Um, uh, o-okay. How would I know if you decided? Do you want me to come by?"
"Only if you want. You're welcome here any time you like. Tell Ikkaku that as well. The only times I won't be around are between nine and nine-thirty for a morning run. If I see you with your comrades the next time we see each other, I don't want to announce my decision. It will just raise some red flags. I'll be subtle about it and wear whatever color top you request."
"Any color?"
She hums in response and a gentle nod.
He stood for a moment, considering the color choices. He glances over her shoulder to pick up a clue. There are a lot of cool colors, from pale blue and green and lavender, throughout her apartment, but it is mostly for the atmosphere. He looks down at her, noting the mint green of clothing. She apparently likes cool colors, but he knows those are not the only shades she likes. Yumichika looks into her dazzling eyes. They sparkled in the sun like gemstones, hypnotizing him.
She really has pretty eyes. Prettier than mine, he says to himself.
As Yumichika continued to stare into her eyes, an alien sensation overwhelmed his senses. It's like a warmth he never thought existed settled upon him, like a soft and cozy blanket. Accompanying the warmth is the sense of tranquility and security he felt earlier. He couldn't shake it off if he tried. It seems Yumichika will always feel this … comfortable around Hiromi.
I think ... I'm in trouble here.
After a long moment, it finally dawned on him that Hiromi's eyes would brighten even more with an opposite, complementary, warm color.
"O-orange."
She blinks and cocks her head.
"Orange?"
Yumichika studied her some more. Her skin would glow from such a color, bring out the dazzling turquoise in her eyes, and brighten the whites.
Stop staring at her, damnit!
"Uh, y-yeah. Like maybe a sunset orange or even a peach." He answered.
He suddenly had an itch at the nape of his neck but couldn't scratch it with his hands full.
"Okay. May I ask why that color?"
"Well..." he pauses to consider his words. "You may have a cool-toned apartment, but it's mostly for aesthetics. I think you really gravitate towards warmer colors because they complement your absolutely stunning eyes. I'm guessing the two colors you lean towards are oranges and pinks. A bright rosy shade, and maybe some reds."
Hiromi stared at him briefly, blinking in astonishment, yet pink graced her cheeks.
"That's um … scarily accurate. How did you even guess that?"
Yumichika grins.
"Power of observation … and a lucky guess. I'll see you around, Generous Beauty."
Hiromi lets go of his arm and lets him step out of her reach. He ignored the electrical charge he felt that soared down his spine from her touch.
What was that about? He questioned himself.
"Yeah, I'll see you around. I won't be surprised by your visit later tonight," she smiled.
"And what makes you think I will?" Yumichika returned as he rushed down the walkway.
"Because I plan on making your requested daifuku this evening."
He immediately stops and lightly dances on his tip-toes.
"Wait, really? You'll make them just for me? That's very generous of you," he gushed.
Hiromi smiled at him, tickled at the sight of his sheer excitement.
"Yep, just for you, Twinkle Toes."
Yumichika stopped and pouted.
"Don't call me that!"
"Sorry. I think it fits you. I'll see you around seven thirty, Yumichika. Now get your ass going before you get yourself into deeper trouble."
Hiromi turned away from him and disappeared into her apartment.
Yumichika stared at the spot where she once stood with widened eyes. There is even a hint of a blush on his nose before a big grin spreads across his lips and dashes off.
Updated 10/10/2023
Chapter Rewrite with brand new content.
A/N: My apologies for the long delay. I've been focusing too much on working through the next chapters and watching anime to hopefully cure writer's block that I forgot I had this sitting in my document manager. I should have chapter 11 up soon with chapters 12 and 13 following closely behind. In the meantime, I hope you enjoyed this update.
Update 08/01/2024
Made a few alterations to the dialogue