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Off with the next chapter!

CHAPTER 5

Rukia blushed. She felt embarrassed as she stared to the man standing right in front of her. He was just so handsome. Aristocratic features, warm amber eyes, and a tall build. The only thing which seemed imperfect was the color of his hair. It indeed attracted attention but by simply looking at the man, you'll know he's not someone to be messed up with.

He offered his hand and she took it. She shivered as she realized how warm his hand was despite the chilly weather. They bumped a while ago and she knew she's the one at fault as she was walking without giving attention to her surroundings.

His gentle eyes landed on her and her heart leaped, there was something familiar with the way he looked at her though she can't fathom how.

He smiled, a twinkle in his eyes which even made his handsome visage more attractive, "I apologize miss."

"Ah, no, I mean it was my fault." Rukia mumbled and silently cursed herself, after all, she's not the type who mumble.

He chuckled, "I'm Ichigo by the way, what's yours miss?" he asked.

Rukia's heart tightened. A wave of nausea suddenly passed her. Ichigo? Why does it sounds so familiar? But then again, she knew she never met this guy. Her breath hitched. No, it can't be.

And before Rukia could think any further, she was met by darkness. She felt herself falling and gentle yet strong arms supported her weight.

"Really Ichigo, the first time you met in this time and you made her faint? Literally." Ishida commented as they were waiting outside the door.

"I have no idea why she suddenly fainted on me, I only asked for her name then she fainted." Ichigo replied, "I don't really understand humans at all,"

"And yet you fell with one." Ishida adjusted his eyeglasses.

He glared at Ishida as he spoke again, "I hope she's not sick."

Ishida pursed his lips and it was not unnoticed by Ichigo. "What is it Ishida?"

"To be honest, there is something I didn't tell you." His friend replied.

"The suspense is killing me." Ichigo merely mumbled.

"It is serious Ichigo."

"Then how about you simply tell it to me then? You know I hate a riddle's way of saying things."

"It's about Rukia."

Ichigo's eyes narrowed, "I'm listening."

Ishida inhaled deeply, "I found out that she's sick."

"Wh-what?!"

Ishida's head tilted to the side, clearly avoiding his friend's gaze, "I withheld this information until I confirmed it. And I just found out a while ago,"

Ichigo inhaled deeply, "So even in this time she can't escape her sickness huh?"

"Maybe you can convince her this time." Ishida merely smiled as if trying to lift up the atmosphere but obviously failed to do it.

"I hope so." Ichigo bowed his head, "And if not, maybe I'll trick her into obeying."

"That's… harsh."

"There are some gentle ways."

"Forget it Kurosaki. I know you don't have the heart to do that, you obey her like it's the law."

"Last name basis again? Well, you'll experience it when you'll fall in love."

"..."

"You let me win? That's unlikely of you." Ichigo replied.

"I did fell in love."

"Oh yeah, to Inoue." Ichigo studied his friend, "Right?"

Ishida just rolled his eyes then the doctor came out and both of them stilled as they waited.