… the next day, late morning
When Starrk returned the other day, life in Los Noches remained relatively unchanged. No one approached him about his mission, Ulquiorra excluding. He was the only person to inquire about Grimmjow's whereabouts and well-being. Starrk is still confused about the Cuatro's behavior as it is unusual. Except he didn't want to linger on what was causing his emotionless comrade to act oddly.
Starrk slept little during those couple of days. He couldn't figure out why he couldn't sleep. Maybe Starrk constantly thought about Hiromi. Despite her smile, he detects a darkness in her eyes. The lack of life is a definite sign. Something happened to her, something dark and tragic. Whatever happened, it altered her, and it bothered him. He can even see loneliness in her beautiful orbs. Starrk is familiar with being lonely. He endured it for years until he split his soul, resulting in Lilynette.
He managed to fall into a deep and much-needed rest, except it was the same day Szayelaporro finished his gigai. As usual, Lilynette rudely wakes him from his sleep, then dragged his ass to the creepy science guy's lab. Much to his horror, the gigai was exactly how he not wanted it to be. He could tell that Lord Aizen was doing everything in his power not to laugh at the silliness that adorned his Primera's mishmash of a wardrobe. Even Gin Ichimaru was trying his best not to laugh. Starrk had to stomach presenting himself before them to meet briefly on his task and the time frame to complete.
Luckily, Starrk can take his time to "find" the girl who rescued Grimmjow. He kept Hiromi's identity hidden from Lord Aizen and his colleagues. It might bite him in the ass if he's not careful, but probably doesn't have to worry about it. It's not like Lord Aizen doesn't trust him and send someone to get an update. He'll back within a day or so.
There were some giggles as Starrk lightly trudged down the sidewalk. The metal clang from the spurs on his boots sounded with each step. It made him visibly cringe. He can even hear snickers from young men and women while the elderly stared at him, stunned. When he passed a couple of high school girls, they giggled as they stared wistfully at him with blushes gracing their young cheeks.
"He looks ridiculous in that," one of the blushing girls whispers, even though he could hear them.
"He may look funny wearing it, but damn, is he good looking." Another voiced as they stared at him.
"Do you think Mr. Rugged Hot Stuff came from The States?"
"Nah, he probably stepped off an Old Western play."
"Why don't you go ask him, Hinata? I'll buy you lunch later."
"You know what? I think I will! I'm close to college age anyway," the Hinata girl quickly replied as she stood to start after Starrk, only to stop. "Oh, who am I kidding? I'm too much of a chicken shit to ask a hot guy anything."
"Wimp," the other droned in annoyance.
Oh, for crying out loud, this is mortifying, Starrk groans.
"Um, excuse me, young man."
Starrk stops.
"Ugh, what?"
"You realize walking around like that is causing the young ones to gawk at you, right?" An older woman's amused voice sounded next to him.
"I'm well aware of that, ma'am," Starrk drones politely.
"So, why are you dressed like that?"
"A bothersome roommate dared me to dress like this for an entire day. I should have gone with saying 'truth' instead."
The woman gives him a once-over.
"Maybe, maybe not. Either way, you are quite handsome despite the … outdated wardrobe piece. So, enjoy the attention for once. You just might meet that special someone." The older woman replies with a grin.
Doubtful, he wanted to say, but refrained.
He watched the older woman waltz off before turning towards the teenagers that continued to stare at him with blushes. One of them smiles shyly while another winks and blew a kiss. Starrk eyes them carefully, before responding.
"I got ten plus years on you three. It would be illegal. Besides," he stopped to observe their attributes. Starrk is not impressed.
"I prefer my women with bigger breasts and a nice ass, which you all lack."
He turns his back on them, leaving the teenage girls mortified and fuming.
"Jerk!"
He didn't care.
Starrk sighs heavily while he walked further down the street, absently chewing on a toothpick that he snatched from a café. Starrk ensured he remained unseen, despite the note's invitation to take it for free. His nerves were getting the better of him when he noticed more giggles. Starrk frowned at himself when he removed the stupid hat from his head to run his hand through his hair. He glances over his shoulder towards the laughter, finding several attractive twin women eyeing him with wide grins. He returns the gesture with a wink. The women squealed in delight as he passed.
Starrk considered that perhaps this attire wasn't as bad as he initially thought.
Not a second later, someone runs into him roughly.
He lets out an audible "oof," while the person who crashed into him let out a yelp. They both fall onto the pavement with a grunt. Based on the octave and tone, he identified the person who collided with him as a female.
Oh, come on now!
He lay flat on his back with the unknown female laying on top of him near his stomach. She's breathing heavy since they are panting. Her slightly labored breathing showed she was out of breath. Starrk attempts to sit up, but the woman remained to stay still. He can't tell if she hurt herself or mortified as much as he is or trying to catch their breath still.
I hope she's alright; he said to himself.
That's when he hears the laughter. He looks up at the women he smiled at, who are now cackling at the scene. Neither of them makes eye contact with him, only the woman on his lap.
"Aw, poor thing. It seems like someone is desperate for attention," the dark-haired woman said with a malicious grin.
"Blondes always seek attention, Kiku," the other comments, mirroring her sister's grin.
Starrk's eyes narrow as he frowns at them.
"You have your entire existence to be a bitch. Why not take today off?" He snarks.
The twins' pout then hurried away. Good riddance.
He groans unpleasantly, then turned his attention on the female who started moving off him. He opens his mouth to berate her when she spoke.
"I'm so sorry for running into you. I wasn't watching where I was going."
"Wait a minute, Hiromi?"
He noticed the layer of sweat covering her arms, chest, and face. Her ponytail is gradually coming undone, allowing her hair to fall forward. The strands of hair that ran parallel to her jaw clung tightly to the contours of her cheekbones. Her bangs even stuck to her forehead. With the sun gleaming above her, Hiromi glowed.
It caught him off guard at how mesmerizing she was. Hiromi's ash blonde hair glowed gold in the sun, her sweat covered skin gleamed and shined as if she were a high polished golden statue. Her turquoise eyes only brightened like the evening star from her bright razorback tank. She's a spectacle, a golden goddess, and she took his breath away.
"Oh crap, Starrk?"
... five minutes earlier
It's slightly warmer than usual for a November morning, almost reminiscent to spring temps. The sun is glowing in a cloudless blue sky, perfect for a run. It's beneficial for Hiromi to get out of the apartment while workers replace the windows in the complex. She's glad, too.
After the events from last night, she needed to get out of the apartment.
When things had settled down, and after tending to the cut on her knee, things between her, Ikkaku and Yumichika became different. In a good way, though. They asked some questions about who would have targeted her, but Hiromi couldn't provide them an answer. She doesn't know who wants her dead and why. Ikkaku had asked about the air horn. Hiromi informed him and Yumichika it was something her boyfriend provided her whenever she was out alone. While it looked like a typical air horn and can alert anyone that she is in trouble, it deters hollows. It has a particular sound wave they don't particularly care for.
Hiromi told them about her boyfriend, who she believes to be dead, belonged in a yakuza group that all have some sort of spiritual awareness. She still has ties to them because they provide her some protection from the hollows and other rival groups. Hiromi hasn't spoken to them much since her boyfriend, Hisashi, disappeared on her three years ago. That's why she's been alone all this time.
Neither of them seemed bothered she had a lover in her life. Yumichika wanted to express condolences for his presumed passing, but Ikkaku gave him a weird look, preventing from saying anything. Hiromi believes Ikkaku has an idea why she didn't seem that all upset about Hisashi being gone. She has gained a lot of respect towards him since the other day. Hiromi is thinking that Kisuke was right. She is taking a shine to Ikkaku. Just thinking about him made Hiromi blush and bit at her lower lip.
They continued their evening in a weird silence. Ikkaku helped her cover the broken windows with some of her bedsheets. Although effective, it made the apartment cooler than she preferred. Yumichika took it upon himself to clean up the glass, and wash the dishes for her. Ikkaku was teasing the hell out of him because he was wearing Hiromi's girly apron. Even Hiromi chuckled at how fitting it looked on him. It made light of the situation, if only temporarily.
After a while of more silence between the trio, Ikkaku felt the need to go on patrol. Yumichika would have taken first watch, but Ikkaku insisted. Hiromi wondered why he would, but would not press him for answers. Instead, she wrapped up several of the persimmon daifuku she made for him to enjoy while keeping watch. He was gracious for the treats. And yet, Ikkaku gave her a look to come outside with him. She was curious about what he wanted, but followed.
The conversation they had was an eye opener for her. It gave her a better understanding of why Yumichika acted the way he did.
~ flashback ~
They stood out on the veranda near the railing, looking out at the damaged ground and the police investigating the area. A crisp breeze blew around them, causing Hiromi to tighten her jacket around her. Beside her, Ikkaku had removed his and gently laid it on Hiromi's shoulders, encasing her in warmth.
"Are you sure you're okay?"
She didn't answer straight away, just shifted in her spot and adjusted Ikkaku's jacket around herself.
"Not exactly," Hiromi answered, avoiding his concerned gaze.
"I figured you weren't. You're putting on one hell of a brave face."
"Because I have to."
"You don't have to. It's okay to not be okay, you know."
Hiromi bit at her bottom lip. "I know. It's just, I don't know. I don't want to appear weak."
"You are not weak. Far from it."
"You sound so sure."
Ikkaku reaches out to place his hand on hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Hiromi faintly smiles from the gesture as a dusting of pink graced her cheeks.
"Well, someone needs to lift your spirits and turn that frown right side up. Come on, smile for me, girly."
Hiromi presses her lips to keep herself from smiling, but failed when Ikkaku's fingers curled around hers. She felt a wave of calm wash over her, and her belly fluttered crazily. Not to mention the heat that continued to rise at the apex of her legs.
"There's the pretty smile I like to see."
She continued to smile. He returned the sentiment.
They grew silent briefly, basking in the tender moment.
"The thing is, I'm afraid." Hiromi says, disturbing the silence.
He glances at her, noting the flicker of pain in her fearful gaze.
"Help me understand because I don't think it's because some asshole tried to kill you tonight."
Hiromi blinked, surprised he could see through her.
"I saw how you looked at Yumichika, Hiromi. I don't want you to be afraid of him."
She doesn't say anything, just stared ahead while holding his hand.
"I've known Yumichika for a long time. I know how he is. And yet, this was the first time I heard him talk like that."
Hiromi glances at him, meeting his soft, concerned gaze.
"He may be a jerk most of the time being his narcistic, flamboyant self, but Yumichika has a weird way of showing people he cares. Him defending you and threatening your attacker is him caring. And the way he's been acting towards you could just be him wanting your attention."
She considered this for a moment, reflecting on how protective he was in keeping her attacker from harming her. Yumichika also showed concern for her wellbeing. He carried Hiromi back to her apartment without second guessing himself. Nor did he feel weird doing it. And the fact Yumichika is acting differently with her this evening made sense. He was being his vibrant self this morning. With Ikkaku here and her attention on him, he was basically frantically waving his arms at her to notice him. Maybe Ikkaku is right.
"Maybe you're right. I guess, I was clouded by a previous toxic relationship."
"Are you talking about the same guy you think is dead?"
"No, this was before I met Hisashi. I was in a relationship with a guy that was a lot like Yumichika. He was overly protective of me, and love bombed me to the point of hooking me into a proposal when I was twenty. It didn't last since he discarded me for someone prettier than me."
"Highly doubt there's a woman out there prettier than you," Ikkaku said out loud.
Hiromi stiffens, blushing brightly.
Ikkaku blushed himself once he realized what he said was in his head.
"Eh, but I understand what you mean, though. I stand by what I said. Don't be afraid of him. I know he means, well."
A corner of Hiromi's quirked upwards, unsure if she should smile. She flicks her eyes off him to the trees, watching them gently sway in the Autumn breeze.
Ikkaku eyed her for a moment before pulling his hand out of hers to brush the strands of hair obscuring her vision. He watched as Hiromi visibly relaxed from his comforting gesture, and leans on his shoulder. His arm instinctively went around her waist, drawing her closer.
"Thank you, Ikkaku," Hiromi whispered, her voice barely audible over the rustling leaves.
He pulls her closer as Ikkaku leaned over to whisper into her ear. His warm breath tickled her ear, sending shivers down her spine, and making her smile.
"You don't have to thank me. I'll always be here for you," he murmured, his words filled with sincerity. Hiromi closed her eyes, feeling safe in his embrace. "And don't let your past define you. You're stronger than you think."
Hiromi took his words to heart. Because she knew he was right. She just wished he could confirm to be cautious with Yumichika as well.
Because Hiromi believes Yumichika has ulterior motives.
Hiromi hopes she is mistaken.
- end flashback -
Hiromi slowed to a stop from her morning jog, doubling over with hands on her knees and panting heavily. A few male pedestrians walked past her, paying no mind to the jogger, but they did leer at her backside … the pervs. An elderly woman had come out of her boutique to offer Hiromi a bottle of water, which she gladly accepted with a warm smile.
"Thank you, Mrs. Fujimoto."
"You're welcome, Hiromi dear. How are you faring these days? Has that worthless lump returned?" Her voice exudes a comforting warmth, like a cozy fireplace on a winter's night despite the clip in her tone.
"I've been doing okay, mostly. And no, he has not returned. He's probably dead, anyway."
"Good riddance, then. You don't need that kind of man in your life, sweetheart. You need someone to love and respect you. Not some overbearing galoot. Any new men in your life to fawn over?"
"Eh, not really, no. Well, I mean, yeah, I met a couple of guys, but nothing serious."
The elderly woman smiled. A twinkle of mischief glinted in her bright, coal-like eyes.
"Oh? Are any of them any cute?"
"All three are handsome in their own way, but there's one in particular that caught my fancy. I doubt it will go any further than platonic, though."
Even though I would like to have a romantic relationship with him, Hiromi says to herself.
"Oh, don't think that, dearie! He could be your soulmate."
Yeah, I doubt that, Hiromi thought sadly to herself.
"Mrs. Fujimoto, can I get your help, please?" One of her store associates called out to her.
"Oh, poo. I guess I better get back to my shop. It was nice talking with you, even if it is briefly. Hopefully, I'll see you tomorrow. I hope your future boyfriend treats you right."
Mrs. Fujimoto quickly retreated into her shop as she had a line of customers, leaving Hiromi blushing brightly.
Hiromi admitted to herself that she might have a crush on him, but it wouldn't work out.
She smiled at the woman, then chugged half the bottle, gasping heartily afterward. Hiromi huffed and looked up at the sky, lost in thought on the sidewalk. She remembered what Ikkaku had told her and the sweet moments they had shared.
"If for any reason you are uncomfortable being alone or just want some company let Yumichika or I know. You can call over at the Asano's if you like, or wear a top in the color of our choosing if we're with the others. I'll let you and Yumichika figure out your code color. I'll give you two options. Pink, if you want me to stay for a night. Or red if you want me to stay with you until we get called back. More specifically, this color. I think it looks good on you."
Hiromi turns her gaze away from the sky to peer down at her top. She screws her lips in thought, hoping that she is making the right decision.
With a hard sigh, Hiromi continues her morning jog.
As she jogged down the sidewalk, her mind wondered some more to the many things that happened last night. Not only did Yumichika save her from the unknown attacker, he stayed with her last night to keep watch and provide her with company. Ikkaku was a little reluctant to leave her alone with Yumichika, but decided it was probably best for Yumichika and Hiromi to have a conversation. Which they did much later that night after having their filling of persimmon daifuku and some sake.
When she awoke this morning, Hiromi was alone. She didn't like it, either. It felt different in her apartment and cold without him or Ikkaku there. They provided her a sense of security. The only thing she found to remind herself of Yumichika was even there was a sticky note on her coffee maker. It was a drawing of a smiling face blushing and his fancy writing of 'see you later.' She had smiled at it, and felt something yawn within her chest. The simple, kind gesture brightened her spirits and her morning.
That's one reason for her to go on a run. Hiromi hopes she would run into Yumichika. Maybe even both of them. Hiromi told Yumichika last night if she wants both of them around for company she will wear a particular color. He promised he would tell Ikkaku since she didn't think about it until then. She has seen them every day since they met. Which is honestly a delightful change of pace for her instead of seeing no one.
What Hiromi wasn't expecting at that moment was running into someone. Hiromi collides with a muscular chest, emitting a squeak of a yelp, before landing with a grunt. She can tell that she ran into a male from the tone in the abdomen, especially the oversized belt buckle that felt cool against her hot and sweaty flesh.
Oh, good god. This is mortifying.
Confusion washed over her as the laughter filled the air, leaving her uncertain if it was to express amusement or a cruel mockery. She inwardly groans when feminine voices sounded. They were cackling at her since they think she was desperate for attention.
Bimbos, she thought to herself.
"You have your entire existence to be a bitch. Why not take today off?" the male snarks angrily.
The male's voice sounded familiar now that he had spoken, defending her.
She quietly hoped it wasn't the person she had in mind.
"I'm so sorry for running into you. I wasn't watching where I was going." She quickly apologized as she pulled away from him.
"Wait a minute, Hiromi?" The recognizable voice questioned.
Hiromi glances up at them, confusion and surprise overwhelming her features. It's Starrk, and he's staring at her curiously.
"Oh crap, Starrk?"
She sees him blink, then stares at her dumbfounded, or maybe in awe.
"What are you doing here? I mean, are you okay? You didn't hit your head, did you?" She inquired with mild concern.
"Oh uh, um no," he stuttered.
He quickly grabbed at the hat that fell from his head, replacing it to shield his glowing red face as he started up from the ground.
She stared at him, perplexed. She caught him blushing, but decided not to say anything. Hiromi started to stand when Starrk was quick to stoop low to help her up, even though it wasn't necessary. Hiromi stepped back after they stood up, feeling a bit embarrassed about running into him. She doesn't make eye contact, only stares at his chest. That's when Hiromi noticed what he was wearing.
Hiromi discreetly scans her eyes up and down his tall frame, noting the powder blue button-down shirt paired with a brown leather vest. He's wearing what appeared to be dark brown relaxed trousers, cowboy boots with spurs, a red bandanna scarf around his neck and that large gold belt buckle. The white cowboy hat with a toothpick in his mouth tops it. She wanted to giggle, except Hiromi noticed something about Starrk in that instant. The outfit complimented Starrk's rugged features. With a faded goatee, striking blue-gray eyes, and a chiseled jaw, he exudes charm. Even his body language screams relaxed, cool and sexy cowboy.
She couldn't help but stare at him, absolutely mesmerized by his enhanced ruggedness. She felt a flush of heat on her cheeks and nose and her lips parted slightly in awe. Not to mention an intense warmth that is in between her thighs.
I knew Starrk is handsome but, damn. He is freaking sexy in that.
"Hiromi? Are you listening to me?" His low, smooth, and attractive masculine voice sounded in her mind.
Oh crap! I didn't realize he was talking.
"Oh, uh um, sorry. Just what exactly are you wearing?"
It was his turn to stare, but he seems more annoyed than anything.
"You weren't listening at all were you, Lass?"
"Um, sorry, no, I didn't hear what you were saying. Your," she checks him out again. "Outfit took me by surprise. What prompted you to wear that, anyway?"
She ignores the nickname despite feeling warmth bloom in her chest.
"This monstrosity was Szayelaporro's idea, if you were paying attention. People were already staring at me. I didn't need you to do the same, let alone laugh."
Hiromi furrows her brows from the strange name.
"Um, who now? The name was quite a mouthful. I wouldn't laugh at you, anyway. It's just different. Plus, you do kind of stick out with that white cowboy hat of yours."
"I know, and I freaking hate this thing."
"I understand somewhat, but I don't see the reason for hating it so intensely. If we removed a few accessories, it wouldn't be so noticeable. Besides, I think it's a good look for you," Hiromi compliments.
Starrk can only frown.
"If I could remove the spurs on these damned boots, it would at least stop drawing some of the attention." Starrk replies a little harshly, then started walking forwards, making the metal at his heels to clang loudly.
"I don't think it's the spurs that are, wait, hold on. Are those chaps?" Hiromi mused, as a grin surfaced.
"Yes! And don't smile either! I'm embarrassed as it is."
"I'd be in the same boat if I had to walk around with that outdated piece. It looks ancient. At least we figured out where the source of your embarrassment lies. Doesn't this Szayelaporra guy realize it's the twenty-first century?"
"Probably not, or he didn't care. Within fifteen minutes, I endured ogling and laughter. Thankfully, I haven't been groped." He responds as he counted down the things that have happened with one hand.
"Funny, you didn't mention the ladies fawning over you, Mr. Chick Magnet. Besides, who in their right mind would not love a rugged, handsome man like yourself, Starrky boy?" Hiromi smiles teasingly before approaching him.
"Do not call me that," he groaned with a point of his finger.
Hiromi approached and hooked an arm around him, then directed him to a boutique.
"I'm not going in there either, Lassie."
"Lassie? I think I like Lass better, Coyote. Besides, I can't take you seriously with you wearing that unnecessary monstrosity. I'm having you do a quick wardrobe fix, so the horny ladies of Karakura Town don't snatch you."
Hiromi continued to smile, which relaxed Starrk to a degree before turning towards an associate of a girly boutique upon entering.
"Excuse me, miss? Would you mind if we used one of your dressing rooms?"
The young woman stares at the couple. "Whatever for?" She inquired while hiding a smirk.
"My boyfriend's idiot roommate made him dress as a cowboy on a dare. I need to remove this monstrosity of an accessory before more people make fun of him." Hiromi explained quickly on a whim, smiling widely and hugging Starrk's arm.
"How would you even know that?" Starrk whispered, stunned at her wit.
The associate chuckles. "Sure thing. They're in the back. Just no funny business, if you know what I mean?" The girl replies as she pointed towards the back of the store and staring at Starrk with hearts for eyes.
"We'll try to keep that in mind. My boyfriend can get a little handsy." Hiromi smiles sweetly, then guided Starrk towards the back room.
He stared at her as she dragged him around the corner and into one of the small stalls. They can both fit inside with little trouble. Starrk glances around briefly at the four walls that encased them. In the right corner, there's a gray upholstered chair and a mirror to its left. Brass hooks on the walls provide a place to hang clothing.
"First, let's get rid of the heavy leather vest. I don't mind it, but it's making your shoulders sag." Hiromi's voice sounded, disturbing the silence between them.
He didn't realize that they were quiet while they stood somewhat close. Starrk glances down at Hiromi to see her reaching upwards.
"Uh, what, what are you doing?" He stuttered.
"I'm just taking off the hat, only the hat. I'm only helping." Hiromi replies sincerely, then snatched the hat off his head to place it on her own.
Starrk relaxes as he stared down at her, finding that Hiromi looked cute wearing the white cowboy hat even though it is a little big on her.
He eyes Hiromi for a second longer, then slipped out of the heavy vest. "You don't have to help, you know."
Hiromi smiles lightly and says, "I want to do it, even though I don't have to."
He blushes as he tossed the vest to the floor, his shoulders sagging in relief from the lack of weight. Starrk then went for the scarf that is around his neck, actually having a hard time untying the tight knot.
"Crips, what the hell? Did he tie this thing so that I can't get it off?" He barks lightly, struggling still.
"Jeez, you're like a frustrated child when they can't tie their shoelaces. Let me help you with that." Hiromi replies with a smirk then stood close on the tips of her toes to untie the bandanna scarf. She scrunched her features in annoyance when she too had difficulty.
"The hell? Even I can't get it loose. Hold on a second," she quickly replied, then heads out of the dressing room.
Starrk stood bewildered at the whole situation, but remained to untie the scarf. When he couldn't get it off, he moved on to remove the large buckle. Luckily, it snapped off easily for him, but now he's stuck with the thick and sturdy chaps. He analyzed the odd accessory briefly before removing it when Hiromi returned to the dressing room.
"Alright, hold still for me," Hiromi instructed when she returned and had him turn towards her.
She reached with a pair of scissors to pry at the tight knot. Except, she is having difficulty when she is standing on the tips of her toes unsteadily. Starrk can tell that she is getting annoyed with the height difference. Without really thinking about it, he wraps his arms around her thighs, underneath her buttocks, and hoists her off the floor. A startled little squeak escapes her lips from his sudden movements, that Hiromi wraps her arms around his neck to keep her balance. She was mindful of the shears in her hand as she hugged him close, yet avoided eye contact with him.
Hiromi felt her feet bump into the chair that is behind her, instinctively placing her shins on the padding to kneel on the furniture. Now towering over him, she has a clear shot of the scarf. Hiromi blinks herself out of her stunned state and clears her throat.
"Um uh, thanks. Now hold still," Hiromi instructs again while working the sharp point into the knot.
She is careful to not accidentally poke him with the scissors, but also trying not to notice Starrk's hands lingering at her hips. She can feel his fingers gently pressing into the taut fabric of her running leggings. It's distracting.
It's for balance, Hiromi, only for balance, she tells herself.
Hiromi concentrated hard on releasing the tight knot that she didn't realize her tongue was poking out from her lips a little. Starrk took notice of this habit that he couldn't help but lightly smirk. They stayed relatively silent while Hiromi worked the knot, but that silence was disturbed when she spoke.
"I'm not surprised to see you here," Hiromi distracted herself from his hands.
"Why is that?" he countered softly.
"Well, you're here, which means you told Aizen about Grimmjow and asked you to retrieve him."
"I uh," he stumbles over his words, unsure how to respond or if he wanted to explain himself here. "Let's not talk about it. At least not here, anyway."
"Why not? We're someplace where no one would hear us."
"True, except I think I would be a little more comfortable if we spoke over some tea or coffee or whatever beverage you would prefer."
Hiromi pauses her movements to stare at him.
"Pardon?"
"Oh, uh, not like that. It's just that you have a contraption that could puncture me."
Hiromi considers this before resuming.
"I guess you have a point."
Starrk scuffs. "Pun intended I suppose."
"I can be a little sharp," Hiromi smiled.
Starrk scuffs again and gently shook his head.
"Don't move silly. I don't want to stab you, you know. I get you being uncomfortable with these scissors in my hand. I would be nervous, too. And I thought you were asking me out on a date."
"That wasn't my implication. I was simply suggesting a more casual setting."
Hiromi smiles a bit more brightly. "Alright. There's a place we can go after this. They have delicious pastries and serve the best matcha tea around. They even have excellent coffee."
"Tried none of those. And what is matcha?"
"It's green tea leaves_ ah ha, gotcha!" Hiromi triumphantly exclaimed, causing Starrk to smile.
She is quick to untie the scarf and pull it off him. Hiromi even unbuttoned the top two buttons for Starrk to breathe without him feeling like he was suffocating. He swiftly unbuttoned three more to reveal his chest, similar to how he would with his Espada jacket.
"Ah, that is much better," he sighs in relief.
"Like I said, a few adjustments would make a difference. I'll let you handle that, though," Hiromi suggested as she pointed at the chaps. "I'll get rid of the spurs on your boots. So, take those off for me."
"How would you even know how?" He questions as he slowly eased them off.
"It's simple, really. I'll give you room to get out of that thing. I'll be right outside the door if you need me."
He initially remained quiet and let her handle the noisy clingers. Instead, a thought occurred to him. He watched her gather the jacket and scarf in her arms, then started towards the dressing room door.
"Lass," he softly called to her.
She stops at the sound of his voice and glances over at him, blushing.
"Y-yeah?"
It took a moment, perhaps longer, for him to express what he wanted to say.
"Thank you."
She blinks and silently adjusted the items in her arms.
"For what?"
"For assisting me. It was very generous of you."
Hiromi's lips curved into a gentle, kind smile, her blush deepening.
"You're welcome, Coyote."
She gives him a once over before leaving Starrk alone in the dressing room. Hiromi leans against the paneling, exhaling a long, silent breath after the door clicks closed. She let a lingering feeling settle within her core. Hiromi finally registered Starrk's energy. Despite being cautious, distant, and even calculating, she felt a sense of security and belonging with him. It's the same thing she had felt in Grimmjow's presence. She has possessed the ability to sense people's energies for a long time, which occasionally kept her out of trouble.
Hiromi sighs softly and casts a disappointed look towards the dressing room door.
Shit, she curses to herself, then starts for the counter to get a shopping bag.
After ten minutes inside the boutique, Hiromi and Starrk exit the building and headed towards the café she mentioned earlier.
Hiromi carried the bag that contained the articles of clothing at her side while Starrk followed closely next to her. They didn't say much, just enjoyed the light silence between them and maybe exchanged a few small words during their walk down the sidewalk. Eventually, Hiromi desired a proper conversation.
"So, um, why are you here? I assume it is to retrieve Grimmjow, am I right?"
Starrk regards her with a sideways glance and sighs. "We'll talk about it in a moment."
Hiromi was quick to catch the seriousness of his tone. "The café is up ahead. If you'd like, we can sit outside and talk."
"I'm fine with that. It is rather nice out here. They wouldn't, by any chance, have any beer, would they?"
"Café's normally don't sell alcohol. If you prefer beer as your first drink, we can go to a izakaya. There's one about a couple of blocks ahead."
"Nah, it's alright. I need to sit and quench my thirst. My mouth feels like the desert sand of Hueco Mundo."
Hiromi paused mid-stride.
"Hueco Mundo?" She questioned gently.
"The Land of Hollows. It's where I first started when I was a hollow, but I was a lot stronger than the others. Never could make any acquaintances."
"You mentioned that once before. Why couldn't you?"
"Let's just say my strength was too powerful that it killed them without really laying a finger on them."
Hiromi stood still and gives him a strange look.
"You mean, they just … died?"
"Yeah," he drones. "Unfortunately, I traveled alone for the longest time because of it. I even envied the weak. I wanted to be like them and travel in a group."
Starrk had walked ahead of Hiromi, leaving her watching him from behind.
"I'm … sorry to hear that. I can relate … a little."
He stops then to glance over his shoulder at her, frowning deeply.
"How so?"
"Loneliness has been a constant companion throughout my life. I experienced moments of true happiness. Except something had to squash it. The last three years have been … bleak. So, I understand the feeling of resentment, disappointment, and isolation that you just feel hollow, numb, and devoid of life. The pain is so overwhelming that you wish to cease existence and erase your presence."
I wish I could have told Ikkaku that. I guess I feared of what he would say, she says to herself.
Starrk eyed Hiromi's despondent expression softly, remembering the moment he saw himself in her. He was disturbed by it, and he understands why that is now. Hiromi thought about erasing whatever pain laid on her heart, hoping it would free her. Except Starrk knew that freedom would still cause her torment. Hiromi would still have those horrible memories as a spirit and eventually resent her death. That would cause her to transition into a hollow. Honestly, he wouldn't want that for her. She deserves better.
He sighs heavily as Starrk continued to eye Hiromi empathically. He made a step towards her, but stopped when something caught his attention from behind her. His eyes narrowed at a shadow, and a scowl appeared on his lips. Starrk felt something in the air, an unnerving tension, and it bothered him to the core. He moves quickly and joins Hiromi's side with a hand touching the small of her back protectively.
"Um Coyote," Hiromi says in alarm.
"Don't say a word. Just direct me to the café."
Catching on quickly of his urgency, Hiromi signals him three paces to the left and follows closely beside him. Neither rushed as they didn't want to draw anymore attention to themselves or the fact Hiromi felt a bubble of panic ripple through her core. She was so hyper focused on getting inside the café yet partially aware that her hand searched for something to grab to subdue her panic. Her fingers gently grazed at Starrk's jean covered thighs, hoping just a touch would ease the nervousness. However, it wasn't enough. Maybe Starrk responded to her movements because his hand no longer laid against her back. Instead, his fingers brushed against her left knuckle before gently taking her hand into his, and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
Upon approach, Starrk shields Hiromi as he guided her inside the establishment, then glanced over his shoulder slightly. He wanted to ensure they were no longer being observed. Strangely, the figure he saw was no longer there. His eyes narrowed at the empty sidewalk and held Hiromi's hand tighter.
"Coyote," her small voice started. "Are they still there?"
He heaved a sigh but kept his gaze on the pavement.
"No, they disappeared … for now. I'll keep an eye out if they decide to reappear."
"I appreciate it, and let's hope they don't."
Starrk let the words linger in his mind, wondering what she meant by that. He noticed a tremble in her voice, but there was something else he couldn't place. Disappointment, maybe? If it were, why would she? Hiromi is creating a jigsaw puzzle for him to solve and is making little progress.
Okay, what's going on here? Starrk wonders to himself.
Hiromi and Starrk sat under an umbrella table, enjoying their drinks and pastries five minutes later. They sat opposite one another. Coyote sat to watch the empty sidewalk behind Hiromi while she looked ahead at the busier side behind him. Hiromi kicked back a little in the metal bistro style chair with one leg stretched out and the other resting on Starrk's thigh. He rested a hand on her calf to hold her leg in place while his other lightly gripped a ceramic coffee cup. Starrk slightly mirrored Hiromi's sitting position with one leg stretched and the other with her leg resting on his knee.
They were quiet for only a moment before Hiromi broke the light silence between them. "How is your coffee there?"
"Strong to my liking, but it's bitter. It could use a little of sugar," Starrk replies as he watched Hiromi pull at a pastry in her hand.
Whatever that is, it looks pretty tasty; he thought to himself.
"Here, have some icing. It will give your coffee the sweetness that it needs. So, what brought you back here?" Hiromi questioned as she added a small piece of icing to his coffee.
He purses his lips in thought, trying to figure out how to put it as he swirled the coffee around. "I will not sugarcoat it, but you caught Lord Aizen's attention."
She stares briefly before lightly groaning. "I guess my interference with Grimmjow and Kaname's fight triggered some red flags for him, huh?"
"Exactly that. Mind you, Lord Aizen still wants to find Grimmjow. He believes the numbskull sought the shinigami for help and is hiding his spirit energy in a gigai. Therefore, he might assume that you'd be seen with him."
Hiromi says nothing to counter the assumption. She needs to keep her mouth shut to protect Grimmjow. Yes, she may like Starrk to a degree, but Hiromi can't trust him … yet. She needs to play it safe to see if he is trustworthy.
"But what does that mean for me? I know I caught his interest because of my interference, but what kind of red flags is he worried about?"
"I'm not entirely sure, but I don't doubt he sees you as a threat to his current selfish objectives. The miscreant. As far as I know, he could see you as a shinigami in a gigai too."
Hiromi scuffs.
"No need for him to worry about that. I assure you, I am no shinigami. What does Aizen want with me, anyway?"
He sighs heavily. "He wants you in for questioning."
"Questioning?" Hiromi echoes in confusion.
She felt her stomach roll unpleasantly. Unsure of the meaning, Hiromi senses the need to discuss it with Yumichika and Ikkaku. They might help her and provide asylum if she told them the truth of her newest predicament.
"Lord Aizen believes Grimmjow is alive instead of me reporting him dead."
Hiromi's eyes widened. Her body visibly stiffened, and her ears ringing.
"You, you told him … that?"
"I did."
"Um, why did you?"
Starrk softly smiles.
"It didn't take me as long as I originally thought to be convinced."
Hiromi blinks, then carefully snatches her napkin to grip to keep her hands from shaking.
"Meaning what exactly?"
The queasiness in her stomach intensified. Desiring to survey her surroundings for an escape, she found herself unable to do so. Starrk would suspect her.
Oh, crap. I have a bad feeling about this.
"Meaning I decided what would be best the moment I left. So, I never came back to retrieve the dumbass. Until now, that is. I guess you caught my attention, Lass. I hope you don't mind if I stayed with you while I investigate Grimmjow's whereabouts."
Hiromi remained calm despite gripping her napkin tightly underneath the table and gulping tightly.
Shit! No!
"I, I don't know what to say about that. Like are you … interested in me, perhaps?" She asked, while trying to remain calm about him staying with her.
Starrk rubs the back of his neck and diverts his gaze to hide a blush.
"Hardly. Well, not particularly, maybe. I don't know. Although, I am sort of in," he mumbles then shook his head. "It's just that, you're…" he stops mid-sentence when something caught his attention from behind Hiromi.
The sidewalk behind her is empty, but there are other café tables with customers enjoying the weather. Almost all of them have newspapers, except for one person whose face he cannot see. They have the large parchment shielding their features. The shadows are helping as well. That unnerving tension returned as he eyed the person suspiciously from a reasonable distance.
"Coyote?" Hiromi calls out lightly to him. He noticed her voice was soft, like a whisper.
He returns his gaze on her, noticing that Hiromi has stiffened and is eyeing him cautiously.
Wait, does she feel something as well?
"Why are you looking over my shoulder?" She questions.
"I don't want to alarm you, but I believe they returned and are watching us," he replies calmly while growing rigid. His grip on her calf even tightened.
Hiromi blinks once as she slowly looked behind her.
"Don't look back. Just keep your eyes on me and remain calm." He lightly urged as he held his gaze on her, but would quickly glance over at the person behind her briefly.
That's when Hiromi felt it, the long forgotten, deep-rooted fear and agitation she used to feel. She always felt this way whenever Hisashi was near. Is he back? Or is it the hollow? They both have the same aura. So, who is it?
"Can you see them? What they look like, I mean." Her voice trembled after a second of silence.
"They're wearing some sort of hood, so I can't see their features. It also doesn't help that they're shielding themselves with a newspaper. Would you care to explain why you seem so frightened?"
She gulps tightly and looks him in the eye.
"It's difficult for me to say out loud."
"What's difficult?"
She pauses for a moment, whispering. "Someone tried to kill me last night."
Starrk nearly dropped his coffee, his eyes widening in pure shock.
"What? Who, who would want you dead?"
"I really don't know who. But apparently they are adamant about it if they are stalking me at broad daylight. I know I haven't had the best life, and it's a topic I have a hard time discussing because of the horrible memories and trauma it brings. Grimmjow might have an idea of what happened, but I never discussed it with him in detail. You will know just as much as him. You are not the only one that knows about my predicament. A hollow has been following me for three years and now I have a stalker. I don't know what to do right now."
Wait, a hollow and someone is after her? I do not like the sound of that.
Angered, Starrk diverts his gaze on the person who is hiding behind the paper. He noticed they were watching them, but quickly hid back behind it. He can hear them grumbling, but Starrk couldn't decipher the tone in their voice to know if they're a male or not. Starrk glances down at their hands, noting that they are large male hands.
"The first thing you need to do is remain calm," Starrk says in reassurance.
Hiromi visibly relaxes, but the fear in her eyes remained.
"I need you to stay here, Lass."
"What are you going to do?"
"Confront them."
He lightly nudges her leg off him, then swiftly stood from which he sat, intending to wallop someone.
"Coyote, don't," Hiromi quickly voices as she reached over and took his forearm.
Her touch is gentle yet firm, rooting him in place but continued to glare at the unwanted seeker.
"Please, don't confront …,"
She is interrupted when someone approaches their table with a pant.
"Hey there, Goldilocks. It's nice to see you again." A familiar voice disturbs her.
Updated: 09/17/2023 with alternate and additional scenes.
Edited: 01/17/2024 - 03/05/2024.
Updated 08/04/2024
Alternate scenes and dialogue changes and omitted a scene to use for an upcoming chapter.