A/N: Drabble featuring Byakuya, Hisana and Rukia. Post chapter 502.

He had been afraid to look at her.

The small, fearful child that walked just a step behind him, head bowed. He could hear her seeking approval in every word, feel her eagerness to be recognized.

But he did not dare look at her, for fear that he would see the ghost of the woman on the child's face.

Now, the irony strikes him. As he walks into the waiting arms of the woman, sees her welcoming smile, he needs to look away.

He can't bear to see the ghost of the child on the woman's face.