(A/N) The title of this chapter is very personal for me. It has just been that kind of year. Physically, emotionally, and financially, it has been a plate holy shit with a side of wtf. Indecision combined with necessity really stepped back into introspection and it changed me. I have gained a new level of appreciation for small things and great disdain for myopic, small minds.

It took a while for me to find my desire to write, again. It also took me a few to figure out how to take the story forward after this chapter. Usually, negativity rolls off me like water off of a duck's back. But, when the world seems to gang up on you, it can affect your mentality.

I couldn't put my heart into writing when my mind wasn't right. And, I would never want to give you a half-hearted work. You deserve more. For a while, I couldn't sit, stand or lay in any level of comfort. Now, I am out of physical therapy, my house isn't leaking, I almost have a bathroom on the second floor again, and I am good with me.

Thank you for sticking with me, your reviews and PMs. Even when I didn't reply, I needed it and it made me feel a little better with each one. Believe me when I say I needed you more than you will ever need me. There are not words for my appreciation.

Okay, so this chapter… Yes, there is humour, but you will mostly feel empathy and sadness for Isshin, Byakuya, Ichigo and Rukia. That will also be true for the next chapter.

I think I have gotten back to everyone, this time. Let me know if I slipped up.

Thank you to: Darklover, Sylvarian, candybaron21, Alex, Lee, BrownEyesAngel, bibbity, Titiff, Catrinastars, .56, moira33, lexy, waitingsucks, brightredcherries, Rodalls, raviroh, starsgirl750, Strawberriii, KageandYuki, MandoCommando, brialees, lucasvelaguk, Whitakker, miniasian, Cindy, Quickslice, raindr0p33, badaax, skstudio, Darkace23, Kireina-Ame, Kurosaki-Braut, KitElizaKing, Chartruese, okami-onna, KuroichiRukibara, PinduriBerkenye, Iskandar06, hinataellis, nothingspecial33, rivera, YukiMC, FY, Camille loves chocolate, hollownature, NieveDrop, Liam G, okami-onna, highlord24, Kiwifan7, MugetsuIchigo, novicestar, okami11235, The Ribbon Fighter, Rukia's Reflection, and all guests.

I also appreciate the guests, faves and follows. Again, it makes me extremely happy.

Let's get on with it. After all, that is what you wanted anyway, yes?

I do not own Bleach or its characters.

Chapter 40-What the Hell Do I Do?

The pale man stares out of the window of the moving car while his slate grey eyes barely allow his mind to comprehend what is being seen; his brain is occupied with more pressing matters.

This will be one of the nights he will remember for the remainder of his days.

Rukia will be not only informed that she is to join another family, but forever bound to Kozo. She and he will become one entity for all of history.

The weight of those thoughts bears down on his mind…and his heart. He is beginning the process of making her an adult; removing her dependence on him…from him.

At one point, he did not want Rukia around. Now, it is difficult to let her go.

For as controlled as she is, the way she lets Ichigo have it, is impressive.

His face forms a faint smirk.

She will be a fine wife, mother, noble and clan leader. She is such a feisty little girl.

His expression dies; Byakuya should be thankful.

Kuro-Ichigo loves her very much. He respects her and cowers at her temper. The barbarian stares at Rukia with a sense of appreciation and wonder. Yet, Byakuya did not fail to notice the darkness that surrounded the young man when her security situation was made mention of.

Byakuya will have to keep watch for the boy as he watches for Rukia. The junior Shiba's protective ways will make him extremely ferocious; not because he is an immoral person but because he will be afraid of losing her.

Rukia must tame her lion. He will not hold back and, if she is not careful, he will consume everyone in his path. Every animal fears the cat because he has the power to extinguish all life. But, if he does so, he will starve because there is nothing to hunt.

Unfortunately, when a predatory animal becomes afraid, it attacks everything; it wipes out all enemies.

Rukia must also take care to not spend too much time fearing for his safety. If she becomes too wrapped up in worry for Kozo, she will leave herself open to danger.

But tonight, if all goes well, is the point where she will find completeness. She will be joined with the person who will take her life from a series of events into a story.

Two slender brows crinkle tightly.

Ichigo had better not dream of total consummation.

"Bya-bo! Why are you being a total downer?"

Said man looks over at Yoruichi with extreme annoyance. "Explain to me, again, why you are in the car?"

"Well," the former clan head recites, "Tsuka was going and you know he doesn't go anywhere without Kisuke. Since Kisuke was going, naturally, I had to come along."

Byakuya cocks a brow and speaks with deadpan annoyance. "Yes, naturally."

"Then," she adds, "When we told Juu what was going on, he wanted to be a witness to his little Rukia's first step into adulthood…well, not that one." She laughs at the thought that obviously crosses Byakuya's mind.

Yoruichi continues to the enjoyment of Byakuya's scowls of disgust and total horror. "When we mentioned that there was a casino, Juu had to bring Sui because he would feel wrong having that kind of a good time without his best bud so…"

The woman reaches over, pats Byakuya's knee and almost sings, "Here we are!"

The youngest man sighs. He has a limousine full of shinigami who are working through the in-car bar. It is amazing that he has been able to block them out for most of the drive. When his sight moves over to Isshin, he can't resist asking, "How did you let it get this far?"

The older Shiba shrugs. "We needed Tsuka and Kisuke can come in handy. As such, I was not ever going to say 'no' to Ruichi. Juu and Sui…meh, it would be rude not to let them come along."

"Yare, Bya-kun. Why would I turn down an opportunity to see shinigami bound? It doesn't happen that often." Shunsui asks.

"Bya-kun," a gentle male voice begins, "Rukia-san is important to me. I am truly happy for her. Ichigo-san is a worthy young man. A joyous occasion like this should be witnessed by many. The antics around you are unimportant. The end results are." The white-haired captain smiles kindly at the younger man. "Do not be so worried."

"Yeah, and don't be a cheap ass. Rukia wants a Western and a traditional wedding. Make her happy or I'll kick yours, Isshin's and Ichigo's ass." The woman flicks her hair back out of her face. This is the reason she rarely wears it down. Yoruichi prides herself on not flicking her hair; it compromises her look of toughness.

Isshin shakes his head while he stares at the contract. His boy…his little man is now a big man. He thinks back to all of the hugs he once got from his son. It will be time to let him go, soon; Ichigo will move away. In the very near future, the door with the '15' will be a quiet museum.

He is on the way to losing his child.

Shiba Isshin... He'd almost forgotten who that was. After meeting Masaki, that person seemed unimportant to remember.

A beautiful Quincy made being a shinigami meaningless because she meant everything to him. From her cheeky personality to her beautiful hair, she was all things…friend, lover, wife, mother, and partner.

When his eyes met the words 'Shiba Ichigo', it reminded Isshin that a man gives everything to his children; including his name. Just because you walk away from something doesn't mean that it will not still be there when your life makes the full circle.

This scroll tells him that it is all coming around again.

Brown eyes look away to the carpet of the car. He will tell them the truth…as much of it as they can bear. Everything will be okay. He will believe.

Rukia will take it hard, but she will persevere; she always does. Ichigo will be angry, but he will come to reason.

"Isshin."

The physician jerks his head up to the baritone voice. Grey eyes capture brown for a few seconds.

Then, gently closing his lids, Byakuya nods. "We will do our duties and we will lose neither."

Isshin returns the gesture. "Hai."

Ichigo and Rukia, please still love me when this is over.

Abarai Renji walks briskly to his office. He needs to talk to his taicho.

Right now.

Does Kuchiki-taicho know about Ichigo and Rukia? Is he okay with this? Of course not.

There is no fucking way that Kuchiki-taicho would be alright with this idea.

He reaches the office, opens the door to find…

A note on the calendar?

Renji-

I will be away in the Living World for another day tending to personal matters. I will return tomorrow morning.

Please be sure that all business is taken care of as you have my complete confidence.

KB

The addressed man crumples the note in his hands and plops down to his own seat. His taicho has been spending a great deal of time in the Living World; more time than Renji can ever remember.

He would assume that things are not going well for Rukia except that Kuchiki-taicho always comes back in a subtly good mood. To ninety-nine percent of the Seireitei, it goes unnoticed. However, after spending many years with the man, Renji can spot an almost smile on the face of his commanding officer.

He also never remembers the snob taking so much holiday. Kuchiki Byakuya has more personal time racked up than anyone Renji knows. The man, generally, only takes off a few days per year and that is for family business.

In the last three months alone, he has been gone two weeks. That doesn't sound like much. Yet, it is unheard of for his captain. There are a few days that he was apparently gone that Renji doesn't even remember.

Has he met a woman?

No. Kuchiki-taicho would not get involved in a relationship with a human. Plus, he will never be over his deceased wife.

What is going on?

Renji has also heard that Rukia will be Kuchiki-taicho's clan successor. That, he would have never seen coming. Renji always believed that Rukia would be the lady of the house, not the head of the house. It isn't that Rukia isn't capable, but wouldn't that make her a target rather keeping her protected? Her new brother always wanted her to be kept away from danger.

Okay, why does that sound so bitter?

Because, since they have come to the Seireitei, Rukia has a new everything. New family, new friends, new boyfriend…

Rukia and Ichigo? Seriously? Rukia would date Ichigo? That just sounds crazy.

Sure, they are legendary friends but Rukia is too…orderly to let a relationship like that change. And, Ichigo would be too scared to mess up their formula. They fight well together, Rukia likes being his teacher and Ichigo likes getting stronger.

Rukia wouldn't like…kiss him, would she? Something about that makes Renji's blood boil. He wants to be the person she kisses.

Staring onto the desk, his mind goes back to Shuuhei's words. Has Ichigo really become that strong? He hasn't had his powers that long. The man laughs lowly. One thing he can say is that Ichigo excels in fighting. He gained up on Renji quickly and…surpassed him.

In short order.

But still, let's say they are dating. So what? It isn't like they have to stay that way. Rukia will come back here and he will stay in the Living World. They can never be together since Ichigo is a human.

Then, why am I so pissed?

Renji isn't stupid. Regardless of how wrong or right it is, everyone knows that there something between Ichigo and Rukia; there has always been. Even if they fear change, they have a level of communication that they share unto themselves.

It upsets the red-headed man to no end. What does Ichigo have that is so great? Yes, he fights like hell, but he is pig-headed, unperceptive, unrestrained and hella cocky. While he is also unafraid of anything and loyal to his friends…

Ichigo has a specific loyalty to Rukia. Renji has always wondered why. Is it because she is the first to make him shinigami? Or, is there another reason?

Rukia doesn't care what happens to her when it comes to Ichigo, either. She steps in front of all kinds of blades for him. Most women only protect their captain or children in that way. Or… No.

Has she forgotten that she cannot be involved with a human? Did she forget about the absolute disgust that Taicho has for Ichigo and that she needs her brother's permission for any relationship of that type? Rukia hangs on Kuchiki-taicho's every word. She knows that he would never give approval to a relationship with Strawberry because it would shame the clan.

Notwithstanding, Renji's recollection returns to Hueco Mundo over and over. Although he tried to forget it, he can still see Ichigo's eyes fix to Rukia in fear; the fear of losing her. Renji had never seen Ichigo frightened like that. Well, except when she fell through the pit of sand… and when they took her from the Living World…and when Grimmjow almost killed her…

The fuku-taicho growls.

Rukia functioned like a one of Kurotsuchi's modified beings for 17 months. She laughed and pretended to be normal. She engaged in activities and pretended that everything was fine. But, when she thought she was out of view, her face changed; dramatically. During those months, her smile never met her eyes.

Once, he followed her home from poker. She was pretty hammered, she had a lot of money from her winnings and he didn't want something to happen to her. When Renji offered to walk her home, she got extra pissy. Something about her being able to take care of herself and didn't need protection, blah, blah, blah. So, he stayed at a safe distance.

About a half a mile away, her gate slowed and he heard sniffling. At one point, she stopped walking and so did he. He thought he had been made, so he hid behind a building. When he heard no extra footsteps coming his way, he allowed his head to sneak around the corner.

There, he found Rukia crouched down, next to a wall, bawling her head off. She was whispering something, but the only things Renji could make out were "Why?", "I'm sorry" and…and…"Ichigo".

After about five minutes, she used the wall for support, raised herself and continued her walk; only slower than before.

When she got close to the mansion, Rukia wiped her face, pulled her shoulders back and walked on with her natural demeanor.

It angered Renji. He knew something was up with her, but she didn't let on. In fact, he knew before she was cut off from Ichigo. In the month Ichigo was out, Rukia had been making all kinds of plans for what she was going to do when she went back to the Living World.

It was all she talked about. Ichigo this and Ichigo that. Juice boxes…what the hell are those? Getting a new school uniform, summer beach trips and Ichigo's sisters were at the tip of her tongue non-stop.

Then, on the day that Ichigo was to wake up, she came out of her brother's office and she was never the same. Though she had a stone face when she left…

There was something very, very wrong with her.

Truth is…Renji is jealous of Ichigo. He doesn't care that the human has more power and can fight extremely well. What he does care about is that Ichigo seems to have a lock on Rukia's emotions and that is dangerous.

Renji folds his hands under his chin. What the hell is he going to do? He is finally in a position where he has something to offer Rukia. He's a great fighter and they have been friends for a long time. Except the forty years you left her hanging, dickhead.

Okay, so there is that. But, he was doing it for her and she has forgiven him. He loves that about her. Rukia always forgives.

Really, Renji loves everything about Rukia because he…he…

I love Rukia.

Was that my chance and I missed it?

The man sighs. He wants Rukia to be happy but he also wants to be happy…with her. They were happy once; together.

Yes, Renji has dated many women. However, he hasn't slept with nearly as many as he would like for his friends to believe. There have actually really been ten and only three have lived up to the fables.

So many of his friends draw their own conclusions. When he says that he is taking a girl home, they instantly think that he is taking them to bed. Renji literally takes them home. He walks them to their door and bids them good night.

Does he like sex? Hell, yes. Does he like it with just anyone? No.

However, the show he puts on keeps the other guys from questioning his manhood.

Once in a while, usually when he has ingested too many libations to think, he ends up in a girl's house. He'll see her several times until she wants to become like committed to each other. Then, he has to let her go.

Really, it is for the girl's own good because he is saving his heart for one woman and one woman only. The others may have had his body, but his heart belongs to Rukia.

Ichigo cannot steal that for which he has waited for decades. He will not allow a human to take the one thing he covets most. The bastard has everything else: Ability, power, preferential treatment…

Does he have to take Rukia, too? Doesn't Ichigo have enough?

This is Renji's and Rukia's time and they will be together because it is what is right.

Once she is back, everything will be fine. They will date, get married and have the life he has always wanted for her…for him…for them.

Everything in our world will be fine.

Everything will be fine.

Everything…

Will be.

Ichigo has a distinct scowl on his face.

In fact, the word 'scowl' is inadequate as he prods along the hotel walkway.

Nestled in his strawberry blonde hair is a headband with orange fuzzy bunny ears sticking up. Worse yet, the person who put it there will not allow him to remove it. Unconsciously, he starts to growl.

Suddenly, he feels a sharp pain to his sides.

"OWW!"

"Yah, my Berry Bunny Horsy! Faster!"

Rukia sits on Ichigo's back as he walks. He wanted to get on this weird man made tidal wave ride with a surf board. She had no intention of waiting in line especially since she knew it was already 3:30 and she needed to be back before 5 o'clock. They should have done that earlier.

But, no, he wanted on with all the other men. She was fine with the idea as long as he did anything she asked after the fact. The dumbass agreed.

Rukia smiles wide. She knew she would get even for the movie stunt.

So, when he finished, they went to a souvenir shop where they were selling…

Wouldn'tcha know it?

Bunny ears…orange ones.

So, on his back she went carrying her bag of goodies calling him her 'Berry Bunny Horsy'.

"Yah! Horsy!"

"Stop kicking me, you…you…" Ichigo is frustrated as hell. Over the last month, he can't even bring himself to call her a 'bitch'. It was different when she wasn't his significant other. Now, it is too degrading for him to say.

If he doesn't respect her, others will get the idea that they don't have to, either. That will get him into lots of fights.

"Yow! Midget!"

Rukia pats the top of his head. "Sorry. I didn't mean to hit a rib. But, you gotta go faster. I want to get my stuff off and shower before my attendants get there."

As requested, Ichigo picks up the pace. She does have people coming and the ride was his idea. Mumbling so that only she can hear him, he grouses, "All I know is that I better get a kiss and a chance to properly squeeze that ass of yours before we have witnesses."

When Rukia laughs in her chest, the vibration runs right through Ichigo before he feels her whisper in his ear. Oh, good heavens I love when you do that.

"If you are a good boy, I might help you scratch any itches you may have."

Ichigo stops and swallows thickly. He lets his eyes slowly roll up to sparkling amethysts. Contrary to his usually confident voice, a shaky one escapes him. "Really?"

Ichigo is so easy to control. "Really. The faster you go, the more time we have alone."

Cinching her legs close to his body, he begins running at top speed. Rukia laughs out loud as she bounces on his back. Mr. Calm and Aloof is becoming Mr. Hormones.

Once at the door, he kneels to get her down and pulls out his room key.

First, I am going to get that dress off of her.

When the door lock releases, he yanks out the card.

Then, I am going pick her up and get her soft legs around my waist.

His left hand pulls down the lever while his right grabs Rukia's.

I am going to put her into the wall and kiss her until she can't breathe.

He begins his steps into the room. He is starting to get hard just thinking about it.

Then, I am going grind my- HOLY SHIT!

"Byakuya! Oyaji!"

Just like with Keigo, the sight of his chi-chi and giri-no-ani cause the previous thought to deflate and die.

Rukia drops her bag of merchandise. There, in living room area of the suite, sit Tou-san and Bya-nii. They are in two chairs across from the couch with their legs crossed.

Tou-san is wearing a black suit and tie. Bya-nii is wearing a grey suit with a royal bleu collared vest. They look like they are going to a nice restaurant.

What has Rukia's attention is that neither looks unpleasant…just unsettled and they haven't said a word. Why are they here?

Gathering herself in the presence of her brother, Rukia gingerly pries Ichigo's tightened knuckles from the door handle and allows it to close.

She does a slight bow but stands immediately upright. She is remembering what she has been taught over the last few days. Smiling with practiced warmth, she speaks. "Bya-nii, Tou-san, what brings you here? Are the girls okay?"

She's no fool. Something is wrong.

Ichigo is stuck on stupid. These two look like they are going to a funeral. Further, his dad did not try to kill him when he came through the door. No attacks, not witty comments, no…nothin'.

Out of pure reaction, he puts his arm around Rukia, pulls her to him and braces himself. What is the deal? The last time his father showed up unannounced, Rukia was in Soul Society ten minutes later.

"What's up, Oyaji? Where are the twins?"

Byakuya stands and Ichigo takes a big step backward with Rukia. The clan leader can see the wary expression on the boy's face. He understands.

"Ichigo, please, will you and Rukia have a seat on the sofa? We want to talk to you. Our business is not intended to be unpleasant."

Isshin is snapped out of his stupor. The unintentionally frightened expression Ichigo wears hurts the father. He never wants Ichigo to think that he would betray his son.

He also stand and adds, "Yuzu and Karin are fine, son. Just sit down. We want to talk to you and Rukia. That's all."

For a 30 second interval that seems like five minutes, there is no movement or talking.

Finally, Isshin calmly says, "Bring your stupid ass down here, boy. No one is taking Rukia anywhere. This is the exact opposite. We came to discuss your marriage contract."

Ichigo and Rukia look at each other with confused expressions, then back to their elders.

Isshin snorts, "If you don't get down here, I am going to show Rukia your most embarrassing childhood pictures." Retrieving and envelope out of his breast pocket, he shakes his proof. "Including the one of you running naked in the kitchen with a pot on your head."

With his scowl taking its rightful position on his brow, Ichigo grabs Rukia's hand and drags her over to where they were instructed.

She does not need to see those.

Though she is being pulled one way, violet eyes wander to the envelope. Rukia will see those pictures. When her eyes meet Isshin, he winks. Yes, I will.

Once they are seated, Byakuya begins. "Rukia and Ichigo; as you know, marriages are arranged either by the families or by the parties involved. In your case, it was a bit of both.

"As your parental entities, Isshin and I had arranged your marriage because we believed that, eventually, you would want to be. You have always been particularly fond of one another. Further, we began to notice when the fondness had turned to love."

The younger of the two captains turns to look at the other to which he receives a nod of satisfaction.

Returning to the couple, he continues. "With the issues surrounding Aizen, there was great concern that Rukia could be held in the Seirietei while it rebuilds or that Ichigo lost his powers and was forbidden to see her. As such, we felt it prudent to hedge against such unfortunate situations as well as give you an opportunity to do missions in tandem.

"Therefore, we took the liberty of drawing up your marriage contract. Soutaicho has seen it and Central 46 has, also. You are betrothed to one another for the next ten months which is will be twelve months from the point of the contract.

"A Living World matrimonial ceremony may not take place any sooner than 15 July which will be Ichigo's 18th birthday. Rukia will be of age, according to our forged documentation, on her birthday; 14 January. That is the law of modern day Japan although you are both legal adults in Soul Society.

"Are there any objections so far?"

The two addressed individuals are sitting still; just blinking. Once again, everyone seemed to know before they did.

Rukia shakes her head. No matter how much she would have liked to have known, she cannot complain. They really do need this. It is just a lot to take in. All of the times she was afraid to tell her brother about her and Ichigo, he not only knew but…was complicit in the process?

Ichigo is really trying to get the thoughts to fully roll around. So, Byakuya and Oyaji got together and did things behind their back. That really does piss him off.

However…

Because of it, he can be with Rukia without question. No, he cannot object.

Except…

Why does Oyaji look nervous?

Still, he will take the short time period. Rukia has less time to stress about this. Quietly but stiffly, Ichigo answers, "No."

Taking the scroll from the table between him and Isshin, Byakuya gets prepared for the part of the program when everything comes undone. Silently, the noble prepares himself. Here it comes.

"I am sure that you would like to see the terms. I will now show it to you since you have agreed to be wed, permission was formally requested by Ichigo and permission has been granted. This is your right and we believed that it best be done before our next battle." The baritone uncrosses his legs, leans over the coffee table and carefully unrolls the document.

Isshin reaches in his pocket to put on his glove. Once he has done so, he places that hand between his crossed thighs so they cannot see it. They are too fixed to the paper to watch him. He has to be ready.

Bya should have let him get them drunk first.

Rukia and Ichigo lean forward. There all kinds of seals and pictures on it. To say that it is 'old school' does it no justice. Ichigo, by nature, starts reading the terms while Rukia starts looking for signs of authenticity to be damned sure no one in the clan can question it.

Byakuya turns his head toward his older counterpart. Now.

"A long time ago, as you both know, I was a shinigami, also. Just like Bya, here, I too was a captain. Matsumoto Rangiku was my fuku-taicho. The Gotei 13 was my life; even if I hated paper work." Pausing, he checks the kids' expressions. They are still reading but haven't found any objectionable parts.

Inhaling deeply, he continues. "I was in the Living World where I came upon some hollow situations that I could not defeat. I was saved by a Quincy girl. Through some very fortunately unfortunate circumstances, I was bound to her. Otherwise, thanks to Aizen, she would have become a hollow. She had saved my life and that was the least I could do for her.

"I fell in love with her and had three awesome children. One of them bears hollow traits, as a result. He is neither pure soul, nor human, nor Quincy, nor hollow. He is a being above all logic with power that will surpass all of his peers. Aizen knew of his birth and likely abilities.

"I was afraid for him and taught him to be tough.

"Thus, his name is Ichigo."

Ichigo's head snaps up with wide eyes. Okaa-san was a Quincy? She had a hollow? Aizen did that to his mother? That no good son of a bitch.

Ichigo's feelings toward Aizen are quickly moving from disgust to despisal.

The father smiles kindly. "Now, he is the best of the field."

Rukia can hear what is said and is on total overload already when she sees…Oh, my gods…

'Shiba Isshin'.

Isshin can see Rukia pausing. Okay, let's get it over with.

"As a result, I could not leave this world. I left my post, friends, family and clan behind. My real name is Shiba Isshin. I am a Shiba. Ichigo, you are a Shiba."

Rukia's head is pounding in syncopation with her heart. There is so much pressure building in her body that she feels like her ear drums are going to blow out.

No, no, no… This cannot be happening to me.

Why is this happening to me?

The words and lines on the page become blurry. She can see the regal colors…the black ink of words, the red of seals, the bleu of crests…

All of it fades into a blurry, murky mess.

Much like Rukia's life.

The finery, money, comfort, and closeness of family…the love of a beautiful man has been reduced to a mass of nothingness. None of it means anything because it was all predicated on a lie.

The lie that she is a decent person.

Tears fall over her face in streams. Rukia slaps her hand over her mouth to stop the sob from escaping her lips. She is a loathsome creature. She does not have the right to cry and further insult people who have been better to her than she deserves.

She has transgressed against this family in so many ways that she wishes she could draw her zanpakuto and run it through herself. The pain from her blade could not possibly be as painful as what she is feeling right now.

I know why this is happening to me. This is true justice.

Isshin is unable the miss the distress in Rukia's body. Though she has not looked up, he can see the moisture on her cheeks and she is shaking pretty hard. "Shiba Kukaku and Ganju are my niece and nephew." Taking a large breath and a small pause, he adds quietly, "So, Kaien was also my nephew."

Ichigo blinks at his father continuously. He doesn't know what to think. In fact, he can't. Not only is his father a shinigami and his mother was a Quincy but he is a Shiba. I am a Shiba…Ganju and Kukaku are my cousins…

Kaien…it now makes sense to Ichigo why he looks so much like him. He looks like Kaien because they are related. This is crazy.

Byakuya is unable to move. He really has nothing that he can say to make it better or to clarify. The noble feels absolutely useless and turns his eyes to the ground. The pain his sister is in is unbearable to witness.

Ishhin quickly appends. "Rukia, Sweetheart, none of that matters to me. All that matters is that you make my boy happy…you make me happy. The girls love you and you make our house a home. What happened in the past-"

The small woman springs from the sofa, backing away quickly. Still keeping her hand over her mouth, she chokes out, "Excuse me."

Ichigo breaks his comatose state and his head snaps in Rukia's direction. "Rukia, where are you-"

"Please stay where you are. I just…just…please, just stay."

Finally actualizing not only his shock, but Rukia's absolute agony, he quickly rises and moves toward her to which she, surprisingly, retreats. Her face is full of tears. Her violet eyes are more navy than purple and it looks like she is working to keep them open.

Though he has not seen her break down in a full cry often, previous precedents tell him that she is about to do so. He has to comfort her; he must. His heart wretches when he looks over her entire body. She is going to shatter into tiny pieces.

Ichigo has always known how much the situation with Kaien breaks her. She feels responsibility for the death of a person that she respected and cared for. This, however, seems to bring her a new level of pain.

But, if he can get his arms around her, he believes that he can fix her. He will make whatever is wrong alright.

He reaches for her when she steps backwards and halts him again; this time, with more force even though she is barely holding it together.

"NO! DON'T! I-I…" She covers her face with both hands. "Ichigo, you don't understand. I can't marry you."

Ichigo's eyes pop out of his head. "What the hell are you talking about? Rukia!"

Backing up even further, she tries to reason with him, holding to the back of the furniture for support. Each sentence is bitter to her tongue and punctuated by uncontrolled sobbing. Life has come full circle. She always knew she would pay for what she had done. "You can't marry me. I have murdered your family and would tarnish your name. I am undeserving of you. I-I am so sorry."

Ichigo is frightened. She looks extremely distraught. By the way she is withdrawing from him, she is seriously about to cancel their wedding and he can't bear the thought of it being true. "Don't say such nonsensical things! You have to know that I don't care what anyone thinks! I only care about being with you! Don't-"

"I CARE!" Small hands ball into fists trying to deal with all of the intense pain coursing through her tiny being.

Finally bringing them to her forehead, she grinds out, "I care what others think of you! I care that I never bring shame to you! I am an awful person who committed a sin against your family; your clan!"

Ichigo's mind knows that this can't be real. It can't. The one person he loves more than anything is leaving him? He has waited his whole life to feel this level of completion and something that happened before he was born is robbing him of that?

He feels a queasy hopelessness starting to consume his body. It creeps from his stomach, up his chest, down his throat and wraps around his heart. It constricts his lungs the way the hollow part of him had when he was becoming a shinigami.

He has got to stop this madness! "Please, Rukia, wait! I didn't even know the guy! It doesn't mean anythi-"

Rukia halts his words lowly but with conviction. "No, but Isshin-dono did."

Isshin-dono. Coming from his third daughter, the name speaks like a curse. Until five minutes ago, he was 'Tou-san'. He went from being her dad to a soulless noble. Isshin wants to move, but he is glued to his chair. He never dreamed she would take it this hard.

He has really hurt her.

Using what little motor control he has left, Ichigo dives across the couch and grabs Rukia's hand. His voice quivers with feelings of fear and heartbreak. If she leaves him, nothing else will matter. "Don't do this. I love you so much. Doesn't that matter to you at all? Don't you still love me?"

Dark brown orbs offer every emotion he has. Her separating from him is the one thing that he cannot defend against. Rukia is his ultimate weakness.

When he stares into her eyes, he begins to fully understand… and his chest twists. She is building all of her strength; to walk away from him.

Casting his pride to the side, he quietly pleads, airing his vulnerability to everyone in the room. He doesn't care who knows. Ichigo's mind starts to chant that he can't live without her and his heart screams that he won't. "Please, don't leave me. I will do anything. Just…don't. You are the best friend I ever had. I know that you love me…I know it."

Ichigo takes her small palm and puts it to his cheek causing Rukia to cry so hard, she can barely stand. She never ever wanted to take Ichigo down so low. The depth of the colour of his eyes tells of his true sorrow. She hates herself a million times over for what she is doing to him. But, if she stays, she has done him even more wrong than he can comprehend.

Rukia's whole life has been wedged between what her heart wants and what is right. This would be easier, if he hated her and he should. If for nothing else, for breaking his heart.

Ichigo's limbs feel like lead. He can barely move. The man is able face down the biggest hollow ever, but he cannot be without her. He cannot go back to being alone. The corners of his eyes commence manufacturing tears. Though unshed, the rate of speed in which they are produced, threaten to fall any second. Even his whisper cracks. "Please…Don't leave me alone."

Snatching her hand from his grasp, the small woman runs to the door. Using all of her resolve, she turns back to let her eyes rest on Ichigo one more time. Wiping them, Rukia's sight clears enough to get her last solid vision of him. She was lucky to have him as long as she did.

With her hand on the knob, she faces the door with her head hanging towards the ground. Just as lowly, she forces out, "Ichigo…I love you more than I have ever loved anyone; enough to put what is best for you in front of what I want; in front of me. You will find someone who you can be proud of.

"You will always be in my heart, Berry…I wanted it to be me." She feels like someone is trying to rip her heart and lungs out of her throat. This hurts so damned badly. Unsuccessfully, trying to control her non-stop crying, she concludes, "I wanted your forever to be with me."

Slipping through it quickly, the door closes behind her and a quiet room is left in her wake.

Still staring at the door, Ichigo falls to his knees and covers his face.

Berry Bunny Horsy.

Though he would have never let his hollow make him into a horse, he didn't mind being Rukia's. In fact, he'd be anything she wanted him to be.

Putting his forehead to the floor, he tries to stop the incoming ribbon of memories that ripple through his mind.

Holding her hand in the train station…the warmth of her fingers threaded through his…

Spinning her around in the sky…the childish joy and freedom they shared…

Fireworks on the roof…the bond of closeness even in the most mundane things…

Their first kiss…the softness of her lips against his…

The chase through the snow…letting their happiness be free for the world to witness…

Hearing her scream his name… an unequivocal emotional and physical trust; completion…

Waking to her eyes…a contentment that he never knew existed…

The lanterns, last night…a fire than no one can ever extinguish…

Why is this happening? I was so happy.

Raising his torso up enough to let his head fall backward, Ichigo wonders why things like this always happen to them. Every time lasting joy is within reach, it is snatched away.

He doesn't give one shit about what she has ever done. He never knew Kaien and only learned of his clan five minutes ago. Ichigo doesn't care about anything other than not losing the person who gave his life meaning.

If the Shibas don't like it, as far as he is concerned, fuck them all.

Can't you see that?

Being part of a clan didn't make him any happier but losing his wife is devastating.

You are my life.

Thin tracks of liquid finally fall to his shoulders and pelt them with fiery pain of his chest.

Isshin, finally getting his wits about him, walks briskly over to his son. When his hands fall on the young man's shoulders, Ichigo immediately pushes him away.

Squeezing his fists and eyes, all he is able to do is scream. "STAY! THE FUCK! AWAY! FROM! ME!" The only touch he longs for just walked out of the door.

The outburst even takes Isshin off guard. He has never seen his son so angry.

The dejected young man falls backward on his rear and brings his knees up to his head. What the hell is he going to do? He fists his hair in with all the raw pain that burns through him. His words quietly mask the tempest that sweeps through his conscious. "Why did you have to say anything?" Ichigo can't even look at his father, right now. The man has decimated his whole world.

"Ichigo! I will fix this. Don't worry-"

When Ichigo's insanely angry and tortured eyes meet his, Isshin feels his heart cave. The words make him die a thousand deaths. Isshin has not seen his son in tears since his mother died. "How could you? You know what she means to me! You took the one goddamned piece of happiness I had in this world and tore it apart. If you don't fix this, I swear that I will never, ever forgive you.

"You will be dead to me."

The sharpness of his words and the hardness of his expression, cause Isshin to move backward, almost falling on the sofa. Oh, Masaki. What have I done?

Being the only one of any thought, Byakuya stands, swiftly makes his way to Isshin, slaps him stiffly, grabs his collar and grits through his teeth, "Go get her before she leaves the Living World."

Saying nothing but nodding quickly, Isshin does as he is told. Bringing the gloved hand to his forehead, he is separated from his body. With lightening fast movements, he is out the door and in pursuit of his oldest daughter.

Squatting down next to Ichigo, Byakuya issues quietly, "Get up, Ichigo. She will return to you. We will see to it.

"Besides, the only way she would ever completely part from you is through her death. Come. Let's have a drink and get you together. You would not want her to see you with such a pathetic expression."

Isshin runs down the hall. Closing his eyes, he feels around the vicinity for Rukia.

Left.

After ten feet, he realizes that she is below him. How far below, he doesn't know. But, she is still in the building.

Exiting to the stairwell, he jumps over the side to the floor below.

Is it this one? No.

Hopping down two more floors, he goes back into the hallway. With flash step that reminds him of being a young man, he maneuvers around humans who do not even know he is there. Standing by the elevator, he sees her…

His heart beats double time.

Grabbing her arm, he turns her around…

Violet eyes blink at him in shock. Then, a childish voice questions him. "Oww! Isshin-sama, why do you hurt Chappie?"

It is his turn to blink. Shit almighty. He answers her quickly. "Chappie, where is Rukia?"

The mod soul looks down and sheepishly returns, "Wukia-sama is vewy sad. She is going bye-bye. She told me to call Uwahawa-san to come get me."

Isshin stares at her for a few seconds. When he assembles what the mod soul has said, his need to retrieve Rukia goes into what Masaki used to call, 'Full Father Mode'.

Shiba Isshin was never really in a hurry. Outside of his duties as a fighter and need to not piss off Yama-ji, he had no serious desire for anything.

Once Kurosaki Isshin had children, something changed in him. If his children were crying, missing or in danger, he moved faster than anything Masaki had ever seen. He once bounced off of the side of a car because Karin went off the sidewalk to get her ball without looking. When he saw her dazed look into the pre dusk headlights, he came across the yard at top speed, collected his little girl and managed to only get bumped by the car.

Masaki rewarded him by beating him. She was upset because they both could have been killed leaving her a single mother and without a daughter.

That was how he knew that she loved him.

Isshin can feel his adrenaline increase and he becomes acutely aware of location. He is not losing Rukia and will not have Ichigo hate him. The hurt expressions on both of them made Isshin almost vomit.

In his sternest 'Dad' voice, he instructs, "Listen, Chappie, stay right here. Do not move. Do not call Urahara. I will be back for you with Rukia. Do you understand?"

The soul inhabiting Rukia's gigai simply nods.

"Alright, honey, don't worry and don't be afraid. Which way did she go?"

"Down."

The former taicho goes back to the stairwell, jumps and comes down the remaining three floors, landing gracefully. Opening the door to the lobby, he avoids objects and people to make it out of the front. When his right peripheral vision notices a light…

There's my little girl.

Rukia is out of the building as quickly as she can. Her chest is heaving and her mind is just mush. Her vision is still blurry and her eyes are still bloodshot.

Ichigo.

Kaien.

Tou-san.

Karin.

Yuzu.

All of the people that had given her a new family she has offended. It was bad enough apologizing to Kaien's siblings and she didn't even know them.

Ichigo's family she knows well and loves them dearly. How could she look them in the eye and join their family? How can they take in a person that took the life of one of their own? How can she ask them to forgive and forget what is unforgiveable and unforgettable?

Though Ichigo did not know him and had no affection for him, if the people of Soul Society found out, they would see him as stupid and her as unscrupulous. People would look at him with a mark. No man takes a wife into their clan who wears the blood of it on her hands.

No one.

He would never be able to walk with pride there.

Never.

Rukia will not do that to Ichigo or his family. They have been too good to her. No, she has no right to be called a sister, a daughter or a wife to them. Rukia is not that selfish.

Getting to a secluded area, she rests her hands on her knees and pants. She must leave here and never come back.

Reaching across her body to draw Shirayuki, she brings the white blade out pierce the sky. The small woman turns her wrist and opens the door to dimension she belongs and briefly closes her eyes.

Arigato, my lovely ladies. You brought me joy and sisterhood.

Arigato, Tou-san. I never knew my father. I hope he was like you.

Arigato, my sweet Berry. I loved you more than anything. Thank you for teaching me what love is.

Please, forgive me.

Her left foot steps forward when she is snatched sideways in a swift wind.

Isshin takes Rukia by the waist and shunpos to a remote snowy hill. When he finds a private location, he comes to an abrupt stop and hugs her tightly. "Rukia, I will not allow you to leave here like this. You will marry Ichigo, you will be part of our family and you will always, and I mean always be my little girl. Are you paying attention?"

Rukia drops her blade and if it weren't for Isshin holding her, she would fall, too. Her body shakes in hard sobs.

"Oh, Honey. Don't be this way. I know it wasn't your fault. I know what happened. Rukia, he fell on your sword. Do you hear me? He fell on your sword. Kaien knew what he was doing. You did the right thing."

Almost unintelligibly, Rukia tries to explain. "I didn't want to kill him. I was so scared. I was such a coward."

"You weren't a coward. You were a young shinigami. A coward would have never come back, but you did. You freed his soul in Hueco Mundo. Rukia, you did right by our family. We wouldn't his soul held by a hollow. Even you have to know that." Isshin holds her body to his chest and rubs her back using his soft paternal voice. This is not her blame to carry.

"I-I held my blade up and then he…he fell. Kaien-dono thanked me and died in my arms and then it r-rained. So hard…it rained." Her arms come up to grip his shihakusho. She has never told anyone other than Ukitake-taicho what happened. "He thanked me for killing him. I felt so low. I killed the only person who didn't treat me like a Kuchiki. The only person who tried to teach me."

Leaning down to kiss the top of her head, Isshin understands why the kid is so messed up about this. Just like Ichigo, she believes that someone she loved died because of her. Further, Edo methodology does find fault in marrying another who kills someone in your family. But, he can deal with that and he'll bet Ichigo can, too. He doesn't say anything and lets her finish.

"I carried him to his family's house and left. I c-couldn't face them. I didn't want them to hate m-me. I was so sorry. I am so, so sorry."

"Rukia, thank you for not letting him die alone. Thank you for freeing his soul. Thank you for carrying this blame, this hurt for so long. Now, let it go; let it all go. Don't hold any more of it in. Kaien wouldn't want that. He would want you to carry his heart, not pain. He would want you to be happy and to live a good life; a long life.

"You will always be my baby, Rukia. I will always care about you and for you. Sweetheart, I love you. You can always come to me like Yuzu and Karin. You are a Kurosaki. You are a Shiba. We are one family and nothing changes that. Okay?"

Rukia squeezes her eyes and nods into his chest. To have a father is an amazing gift. Isshin is truly her Otouto.

"Thank you, Tou-san."

"No, thank you, Sweetheart."

Masaki, help me heal our broken little bird.

Ichigo stares at his cup of sake. He can't bring himself to want to move. Somehow, he is afraid that if he does, time will move forward and Rukia will actually be gone…for good.

He had always worried that circumstances would pull them apart. He never thought that she would leave him willingly.

She's so crazy and wonderful all at the same time. She's pushy and cute. He closes his eyes and lets his head rest on the back of the sofa. What the hell is going to do? He imagines her lips to his and he feels a slight smile tug at them.

Rukia is so beautiful.

When his mind rolls back to an hour ago, the scowl is back in force. Couldn't Oyaji just kept his big mouth shut? Why did they have to know?

"This had to be done, Ichigo."

The baritone arrests Ichigo's thoughts. He forgot Byakuya was there. His head snaps forward and looks the man in the eyes. His voice is tired but angry. "Yeah? Why is that? Besides, this is probably what you wanted anyway."

The addressed man's brow rises. "Really. I would have my sister this upset just because I don't like you? Don't flatter yourself. My disdain for you is not worth that much." Taking a sip, Byakuya concludes, "But, she had to know the truth so that she could prepare herself."

Ichigo snorts incredulously. "I am sure that Oyaji thought this was a great idea. Once everyone knows everything, then the stuff you kept a secret is all forgiven. It seems to be his standard plan."

"Actually, it was my idea."

Ichigo's eyes bore into the man across from him. "Come again?"

Without waiver, Byakuya elaborates. "Telling you was my idea. I pressured him into telling you the truth."

Ichigo is searching for reasons to not come over the coffee table and start beating the absolute shit out of Byakuya because, at the current moment, he is coming up with none. "Oh, really? Care to expand on that, asshole? I mean, hell, things are going so well with your big plan, why not tell us how smart you are?"

Byakuya finishes his cup and pours another. "Ichigo, you are a lower noble, marrying a high noble. Regardless of how you see it in this world, that is the truth in Rukia's. You should know who and what you are before you become part of a dimension that does not operate on what you would consider normalcy.

"People are careless with their words and reckless with their actions. I would rather you hear it from us in private, deal with the hurt now and get used to it before it is hurled at you in insult in front of many. If you know the truth, their lies cannot penetrate your resolve. If you were to believe lies, it could tear your marriage apart from the inside out."

Leaning forward, the older man fixes on his coldest most serious expression. "I will not have it. You will marry Rukia and you will make her happy or I promise you that I will do my diligent best to kill you. If I ever hear of your infidelity, I will have your offending anatomical parts put in a jar in Kurotsuchi's lab. If you hurt her, you will sleep with one eye open and find so many sakura blossoms up your ass that your nose blooms flowers. That is final. Are we understanding each other, Shiba Ichigo."

Ichigo has never heard Byakuya speak this way. Ever. Evidently, Byakuya plans for Rukia to get married to him. End of story.

Ichigo is also taken back by his name. It is rather shocking when it is said but that is who he will become in Soul Society.

The most strange thing is…the son of a bitch is right. It might have been too much to find out about on the fly. It is better that they get over it now. But, if Rukia doesn't come back, then this is all for naught.

Still, if anyone can influence her, it is Byakuya. Ichigo simply responds, "Hai."

"She will come back. Isshin and I figured that neither you nor she would deal with this in a favourable fashion. But, she told the truth when she said that she loved you more than herself. So, you had better not disappoint her.

"You are both young and I was once like you. I let my emotions rule my mouth and my fist.

"Without control, a man is nothing more than an animal. Your arrogance is impressive. Your execution is unspeakably poor. You are about to become a noble lord; a man of discerning taste and calculated action. I will make you look good in public if I have to beat it into you.

"But, I have no doubts… I. Will. Succeed."

Somehow, Ichigo is becoming less worried about if Rukia will come back and is wishing for it to be soon. He needs a buffer between him the maniacal Kuchiki. He almost wonders if Kurotsuchi is in Byakuya's body right now.

Byakuya leans back in his usual posture. "Nonetheless, I also know that you love my imouto more than the air that fills your lungs. You would rip out a man's beating heart if she asked you to. No matter how powerful or wealthy I am, I cannot buy that type of loyalty and security for her. I could purchase obedience, but yours to her is of your own free will.

"Thus, the reason I agreed to let your marriage take place."

Ichigo takes a drink. Great, the only reason Byakuya gave his blessing is because he knows that Ichigo is Rukia's personal pet. And, Ichigo cannot even refute it.

I am not sure this could get any more emasculating.

"Further, for your information, I don't hate or detest you. There is no secret that you annoy me grandly." The older man's lips turn up. "That is why I am going to annoy you, in return. Your irritation is quite entertaining."

Ichigo softly snorts and nods. "I'm sure. Hey, Byakuya?"

"Yes."

"What was Oyaji like when he was younger?"

Said man pours more liquid in Ichigo's cup and lets his brows briefly rise and fall. His expression is pleasant and relaxed; something that Ichigo can't remember ever seeing. "Your otou-san made Kyoraku Shunsui seem ambitious. He and Shunsui made laziness and lechery a full time occupation."

Both men laugh lightly. Then, as Ichigo imagines his father, he laughs harder. "I can totally see them having a lot in common. My Oyaji thinks that every man is led below their belt."

Byakuya nods casually while gazing off into the distance. "Most are. But, when a man allows their heart to speak, emotions will carry him forward. His intellect becomes sharper, his rationale is more just and his soul is cleansed. When a man cuts off all communication to his heart, the instincts of a beast are all that remain and his soul is mired in filth. Eventually, his mind will take over and his hubris destroys him.

Read the section labeled 'Aizen' for further details."

"Was Hisana-san like Rukia?" Ichigo has always been curious.

Slate grey eyes snap to amber ones in response. Byakuya has not been asked about her for quite some time. He is a bit surprised.

After being studied for a few seconds, Ichigo retracts. "Listen, if you don't want to talk about it-" He doesn't mean to pry. Ichigo is sure that even Byakuya has pain and that no amount of time can pass that will make the death of your wife okay with you.

"No; it is alright. Yes and no. They look a great deal alike. They both had ways of getting their points across and did not like being mocked about their height-or lack thereof."

Both men smile softly. The older of the two looks downward. His voice is quiet and reverent. "But, Hisana was extremely soft spoken with a light voice pitch. She had a gentle touch and lacked the hardness that Rukia possesses. Rukia also has a confidence that Hisana did not.

"I suppose that is due to the way Rukia grew up."

Byakuya stays quiet for short time. He remembers what was between him and his wife and is grateful for knowing her even a short while.

Taking a light sip, he finishes with distant eyes and a matching expression. "She was a good woman. By all accounts, I loved her very, very much. Not a day goes by that I do not miss her.

"I hope that you never feel that type of void. For your sake and mine…I do not want to lose Rukia, either. I wish Rukia could have known her. I wish Hisana could have seen Rukia. I believe that she would have been proud."

Ichigo is surprised to hear Byakuya talk of Rukia this way. Maybe the younger man can cut the older some slack, once in a while. Byakuya does love Rukia which is all that is important to Ichigo.

"Byakuya."

"Hmm?" The noble checks back in to look up at Ichigo who wears a kind and understanding smirk.

"Thanks."

The Kuchiki returns the expression. "The pleasure is mine."

There is a knock calling Ichigo to rise from his seat. He opens the door to see his father, holding the hand of the person he has most wanted to see for the last hour.

Isshin smiles at his boy. "I brought you something."

Rukia's meek purple irises rise to Ichigo. With an equally unsure smile, she whispers, "I'm sorry."

Ichigo immediately detaches her from his father and wraps her in his arms. Holding the back of her head and kissing her face numerous times, he mumbles, "Don't be sorry. Just don't leave me anymore; please, don't scare me like that."

Rukia puts her arms around his neck and squeezes. She was afraid that he'd be angry with her and he'd have every right to be. All she can whisper is, "I'm sorry, Ichigo."

Setting her to her feet, he holds his palm to one of her cheeks and moves her wayward hair with the other hand. He smiles softly and repeats, "Don't be. Just promise not to run from me, okay? It hurts when you do that."

The young woman looks down and nods. "Okay." She never wants to hurt him. There is no world without him in it.

He reaches to hold her tightly and hugs her as hard as he can. His voice is low in her ear. "Oh, my gods, I love you."

Isshin gets back into his body, sits down next to Byakuya and pours himself a drink. Looking over to his partner in crime he raises his glass in a toast. Byakuya raises his glass to Isshin's.

He sees no reason to break it up. The attendants will be here in sixty seconds anyway.

When Isshin lets out an exhausted breath, the younger of the two lets his eyes slide over to the right with a taunting smirk. "Took you long enough."

Isshin shakes his head and both men chuckle.

Blinking his eyes rapidly, Uryuu hears the turning of keys and the opening of a lock. His hand reaches for his glasses and he puts them on with one hand.

A total 'no-no' in his book; it damages his frames.

When his vision corrects, he sees Tatsuki coming through the door.

She quietly calls out, "Hime. Are you okay-"

Uryuu and Tatsuki look at each other in silence. Then, down to a sleeping Orihime on his chest.

He puts his index finger up to his lips to which Tatsuki nods.

Gingerly as he can, he removes himself from beneath her, repositions a pillow under her head and re-situates the blanket. Once he rises, he turns off the television and moves towards the door.

Putting on his shoes, he looks the other teenager in the eye and speaks quietly. "I made her some soup and watched some cooking shows with her." Looking up at the clock, he continues, "We fell asleep about two hours ago."

Tatsuki keeps her mouth shut and nods with raised brows. Ishida came over to Hime's? Alone?

Way to grow some balls, Ishida.

"I'd just let her sleep. She seemed really quite spent. How are you feeling, Arisawa-san? She said that you both had the same flu."

The addressed girl answers slowly, but immediately. "Similar, but not quite. I came over to see if she was alright since she didn't answer her phone."

The bespectacled man rises to put on his outer garments and replies, "Well, stay with her, tonight. If either of you need anything, don't hesitate to call. I hope you are both better soon. Please give her my regards."

His eyes fall on his sleeping beauty and a warm smile escapes him before he slips out the door. "Have a pleasant evening."

Tatsuki watches him walk down the stairs ready to laugh. He isn't fooling anyone. "You, too, Ishida. Thanks."

When she closes the door and turns to look at her best friend, all she can say in low volume is, "That is who you should be with, Hime."

Chad opens the take out bags on his counter and puts out some plates. "Hey, Ishida, thanks for the food, man. You didn't have to do that."

Uryuu shrugs his shoulders. "I knew your gig got cancelled and I didn't think you would have any decent food unless it was pizza."

One of the reasons that Chad really enjoys the Quincy is because he is an extremely considerate friend. Not that Ichigo isn't. But, Ichigo would have been dragging him out somewhere and Ichigo would never put soda in a glass.

Uryuu pours the soda into some glasses and sets them on the coffee table. He takes out his gaming headset and gets it tethered to the console. When they get done eating, they'll get some battles going. He and Chad like teaming up on other people online. And, honestly, they love any combat game.

Chad passes Ishida a plate before he sits. "You must really feel like slapping some teams around, tonight. What's got you all worked up?"

After nodding in appreciation and putting out his napkin, the man returns, "I'm not worked up. I had a pretty good day. I took some soup over Inoue's, watched some cooking shows with her, took a nap, went home, took Ryuuken's spare car, picked up the food-"

When Chad gags on the noodles and coughs, Uryuu pats him on the back. "Come on! It isn't like he doesn't have three cars! He's at the hospital and won't be back until tomorrow. I do have a license."

Almost proudly, he appends, "I am eighteen, you know?"

Chad almost swallows his entire soda in one gulp. His eyes are watery from the coughing. "It's not the car, man. You slept over Inoue's?"

"Yes. And? It isn't like I did anything indecent. She is a young lady to be respected."

Chad shakes his head in bewilderment.

"What?"

Chad gives him a rare incredulous look. "You can't get up the nerve to ask her on a date, but you sleep over her house. Dude, you are twisted."

Uryuu turns bright red. That does sound bad. "No! I mean, yes! But, not the way it sounds!" Collecting himself, he tries to convey the situation in a very quick fashion. "We were watching one of those cooking shows and after the third one, she fell asleep on my chest. I didn't want to wake her and the show was boring me. So, I took the opportunity to get some rest."

When he stops talking, Chad is staring at him with a knowing grin. "Hey, you don't have to explain to me, man. But, I know you sniffed her hair."

The Quincy scowls before he reluctantly offers, "I may have gathered a whiff or two. But, by no means did I make an effort at 'sniffing'."

Chad continues to stare with the grin…and no words.

Uryuu sighs and lets his head fall backward on the couch. "It isn't like it matters, anyway."

"Oh? Why not?"

Raising his head, he gives the large man a defeated look. "She asked me about Rukia and Ichigo. No, not asked; interrogated."

Chad snorts and shoves more food in his mouth before replying, "Don't sweat it. That will go away. Ichigo would drink a tub full of Rukia's bath water and ask if another glass would kill him. He loves her. Inoue will find that out soon enough.

"I am happy for Ichigo, though. And, you, too."

Uryuu rolls his eyes. "There is no reason to be happy for me. I am the second runner up to the great Kurosaki Ichigo; the tall flaming carrot top that all girls of Karakura High fall all over themselves for."

"More like fifth runner up."

"Gee, thanks."

Chad laughs and pushes his friend, what he considers to be, lightly in the arm. Unfortunately, the thin man almost falls over. "Dude, it won't matter. After Christmas, everyone will know that he is off the market.

"Inoue-san will find out sooner than that, I bet."

After a deep breath, Uryuu, confides, "I don't want to win by default. I want her to want to be with me."

Shaking his head with rolled eyes, the dark skinned man offers, "Dude, her ideal guy will not be an option. Then, she will be able to see what she has been missing by chasing what can never be hers.

"Then, she will see that you are the best choice."

With a snort, the other man adds, "The best of the rest."

"That's not what I said."

"You didn't have to."

Moving his hair out of his eyes, Chad looks at Uryuu in seriousness. "She will see that you are and have always been the best choice for her."

Uryuu looks down and nods.

The Latin man smiles and returns to his noodles. "Dude, you better get your resolve up. No girl wants a long suffering, emo wimp."

The Quincy snorts. "It worked for Ichigo."

Chad shakes his head. "Nah."

Uryuu looks at him like he's crazy. "What do you mean? I thought we were going to have to start shaving him to keep him away from blades."

Chad laughs lightly. "If Rukia would have been here, she would have slapped him around every day for looking like so pathetic. He knew he had to toughen up in her presence to keep from being beaten."

Both men envision the altercation and laugh.

Nudging his friend, Uryuu has to admit; he does feel better. "Chad, my good man, you are a smart fellow."

Getting up to get seconds, Chad smiles, "Don't mention it."

Byakuya rises to answer the door of the suite. He already knows who it is.

"Hello! Did you miss us?" Kisuke's expression is bright and cheerful.

With an eye roll of irritation and a snort of mocking, the younger man calls out to his other room occupant, "Isshin, look what dragged in the cat?"

Everyone except Yoruichi makes the 'ouch' face.

She growls and squints deadly intentions. "If I were not in a dress, I would pound you into mud."

A pale face remains serious although all other shinigami know he is trying to irritate the woman. "That doesn't scare me nearly as much as the idea of seeing you without clothing. Thank the gods for dresses…even on you."

Kisuke quickly grabs her by her waist and pulls her backward, allowing all of the other men in.

"Let…me…at…him…" Yoruichi struggles to get free from the blonde man's grasp. She is going to rip Bya's head off his shoulders, tie it to a string and use it as a toy.

"Now, now, Kitten. We can't mess up your lovely evening look." Commenting lowly Kisuke adds, "You are simply ravishing."

The woman stops her motions and gives her significant other a reluctant smile. "Good answer."

Standing tall and reconstituting herself, Yoruichi kisses him on the cheek. "You were always so pur-r-r-fect." Kisuke always knows what to say to keep her from killing someone.

The pale man feels his face heating. Still, he can't stop his mirroring expression. "Just remember that the next time you reach to hit me."

Running her index finger under his chin, she whispers, "That is the only time I'm not thinking it."

"Give it a rest, already."

Both people find Isshin standing by the door. "Are you coming in here, or what?"

The two older shinigami roll their eyes, take each other's hand and gracefully enter the room to the sound of loud chatter.

About the time they come in, Ichigo comes out of the spare bedroom of the suite wearing a navy pinstripe suit that he looks none to comfortable in. At which point, all discussion stops.

The reddish blonde boy looks up to all of their faces. As they all blink at him, he has to ask, "What?"

Isshin bolts across the room. "My boy is so handsome! Come, let your papa give you a hug!"

"Touch me, and you'll die." Ichigo's voice is flat. He feels like he is in someone else's gigai. Nothing feels right, he couldn't figure out how to button the cuffs of a shirt with no buttons and the jacket feels like it is closer than all of his tight shirts combined.

This is awful.

The only thing that he is thrilled about is his shave. The guy Byakuya called, shaved him so close, his face feels like it did before he started growing facial hair.

Aforementioned man comes to stand in front of him. Ichigo is a mess. "Please allow me to get you situated. Rukia is going to come out looking perfect and you don't want to be the piece that pulls her look down.

"I know you would want her to walk proudly. And, every woman is attracted to a well dressed man.

"Always remember that your wife is still a woman."

Ichigo nods silently and looks down. Byakuya is right.

"Alright, where are the plastic pieces that go into the collar of your shirt? They are called collar stays. You need them to keep the points crisp." Rukia's brother will take this opportunity to mentor Ichigo. It is obvious that younger man does not wear this type of clothing often.

Ichigo reaches into his pocket and produces them. "I didn't understand why they were there and they kept sticking me in the collar bone."

Byakuya nods. "You didn't have your tie on yet, I assume."

When Ichigo shakes his head, Byakuya continues. "Also, did you bring out the small box I gave you?"

"Yeah."

"Those are cufflinks. This is a French cuff shirt. They hold the cuffs together in a more…refined fashion. They make your attire look finished." The noble proceeds to straighten the young man's collar and put on his cuff links. He then aligns his tie, jacket and vest.

As he works, he quietly comments, "Those cufflinks are the first pair I ever owned. The silver belonged to my great-grandfather. I had hoped to give them to my son, someday. Evidently, Kozo, you are as close as I will get.

"Treat them well."

Ichigo's eyes follow Byakuya's diligent zshuzshing. He doesn't know what to think or say. Today has been the nicest the man has ever been to him. The only thing he can offer is, "Arigato. I will."

The addressed man smirks. "I know. You appreciate clothing as much as I do." When his eyes fall on Ichigo's belt buckle, he sighs. "That is tragic."

Ichigo looks down and does the same. "I hate this. It came in the suit bag but it's too-"

"Boring."

The younger man looks up. Finally, someone understands. "Exactly!"

The Kuchiki goes over to the bag with Ichigo's top coat and pulls out another box. "I purchased this for myself, yesterday. But, in light of the occasion, you need it more. Your current buckle looks like something an old man would wear.

"It is hideous."

Ichigo wastes no time switching the items out. "Oh, my gods, I know. When I saw it, I felt like it killed everything."

Byakuya takes a moment to straighten his own attire and fluff his ascot. "The zanpakuto of ensembles."

Both men laugh lightly.

Once Ichigo is finished, Byakuya looks him over. "I believe you are ready."

Uneasily, the younger man asks, "How long did it take you to get comfortable with this stuff?"

With a soft scoff, the noble answers, "After a few occasions, you will know what you need and how it is applied. It will come to you."

The door to the master room opens and a line of attendants exit; all are smiling, giggling and whispering to each other.

"Well, the gaggle has had a successful trip. Their mistress must be about ready, as well." Byakuya closes his eyes and shakes his head.

When the ladies lay eyes on Ichigo, several have pink cheeks and return to the giggling and whispering with urgency.

Byakuya just stares at the ceiling. Women are crazy.

After checking his fly and deducing that it is closed, Ichigo asks quietly, "Why are they staring at me?"

Using air quotes, Byakuya replies, "You are marrying Rukia. They all think you are handsome and that you and Rukia would make 'adorable babies'. Your 'romantic' rescues of her makes the giggling even worse. They think Rukia is just 'too cute' so it makes their day to see you-not just in pictures." He continues to shake his head. "Plus, knowing them, they made Rukia up special just for tonight. They can't wait to see you together."

A blushing tenor only offers, "Ah." Now, he can't wait to see Rukia, either.

He hears the handle from their bedroom turn and out walks woman that dreams are made of.

Giving the room a few paces, Rukia looks down at her feet. She hasn't worn shoes with this much of a heel in a very, very long time…ever.

When her eyes meet the mirror, she does a double take. Wow, she looks…grown up. Not that she isn't a young adult. But…Wow.

Her form fitting midnight bleu halter dress flairs out and falls just below her knees. She never knew she had so much…chest or…what is Rin Rin's term? Junk?

Karin and Yuzu are so cute.

With her hair only up in the front, her back isn't completely out which is good. The bang…Ugh. You just do what you want.

Rukia has never had the smokey eye thing. Dark shades of blue, purple and grey line her lids with the liner all the way to the edge. Smokey cat eyes are all she can compare it to. The dark mauve colour of her lips and cheeks keeps her polished but her eyes are the star of the show.

Still, her shoes are very pretty. Her dark ruby red suede platform peep toe pumps make the blue even bluer. They make her calves look really good. Even the hell butterflies on her feet seem feminine. She does a turn in the mirror and just can't get over how she looks.

She has never felt…pretty before. It's crazy.

Checking to make sure her sapphire studs are secure, she decides to get this over with. Hopefully, Ichigo will be pleased.

Collecting the small clutch that matches her shoes, Rukia takes a deep breath and opens the door.

Ichigo will either love it or hate it.

Rukia walks out to a room full of people. Where the hell did they all come from? They are so busy talking that they haven't even noticed her.

She sees so many senior shinigami dressed in evening wear that she has to take inventory. Ukitake-taicho and Kyoraku-taicho are wearing neat pony-tails and crisp suits. Kyoraku-taicho even neatened his facial hair.

Tessai-san has on nicer glasses than usual. He found a suit to fit around all of that muscle mass?

Urahara has his blonde hair combed back, he shaved and he's wearing a bow tie next to…Yoruichi-san, as always, looks amazing. Her dress is the same length as Rukia's just off the shoulder and bronze. Her hair is down and curled upwards. Her matching strappy heels are stunning.

Bya-nii and To-san are just as she left them. To-san has the goofy thumbs up going. Bya-nii is smiling in approval. He's standing next to-

Ichigo.

Great heavens… She could have never imagined him looking so…so…

Good. No, so extremely, over the top, one hundred percent, undeniably debonair.

The pinstripes of the navy suit make him look taller and leaner. The red vest and tie cause the blue to stand out and the suit colour compliments his hair. Cordovan brown shoes? Are those cuff links?

Good grief.

Berry, you hot, dead sexy man. Arigato, Tatsuya-san.

Rukia just wants to put a bow around Ichigo and sit him under the tree so she can unwrap him.

Purrr…

When their eyes meet, she looks down immediately in embarrassment. He caught her staring.

Shyly, her eyes make their way back to his and she realizes that he is smiling…really smiling. It makes him look even more attractive. His smile with the honey eyes are killer.

Then, Yoruichi notices her. "Rukia! You have got it going on! Let me get a look at you! I knew this dress was perfect!"

Before the woman can get to Rukia, she pulls her phone out of her purse, reads the message and smiles.

Berry approves.

To: Kuchiki Rukia

From: Kurosaki Ichigo

Arigato, Love. But, U R absolutely stunning.

When a beautiful angel enters the room, it steals the air from Ichigo's lungs.

Oh, my gods, Rukia…

You are so beautiful.

He can't tear his eyes from her. Her face is bright, but seductive. With her hair pulled back only in the front, Rukia's neck is like a marble pillar. The pale, milky skin of her shoulders, arms and legs is angelic. And that body…

Hot. Damn.

The dress hugs her well. It isn't skin tight at all, but it catches her in all of the right places. Her breasts are on a platter, her long but tiny waist is talking to him, and Rukia's hips are full. When amber orbs follow the dress down her legs, it stops just enough to tease him, but high enough to see toned calves and cute but sexy heels.

Your feet are so tiny.

Does he have to take her out? Can't he just stare at her for a while and peel her clothes off slowly like a banana? With his teeth?

Wait. First, he has to show her off. Ichigo wants every man in a twelve mile radius to know how beautiful his wife is.

Ichigo realizes that Rukia is checking him out and his whole body goes up in flames. She likes the way he looks. His ego is on an all time high.

Still, he doesn't hold a candle to her. He'll bet she smells divine.

When all of the other people descend upon her like flies, he decides to let her have her moment. She deserves it. He will have her to himself soon enough.

He sends her a message to let her know how much he appreciates the way she looks for him.

Her reply makes him even more red.

To: Kurosaki Ichigo

From: Kuchiki Rukia

Two words for you; Devastatingly Handsome.

Okay, Tatsuya and Byakuya were right.

Just when Ichigo mentally prepares his reply, Isshin calls the room to order.

"Alright ladies and gentlemen, let's get things going. I figure we should fill my boy and my daughter in as to the reason the rest of you are here.

"Even if they have been too caught up ogling to ask."

Ichigo and Rukia look away in embarrassment while all of the others laugh. Both feel like the biggest idiots ever created.

"So," Isshin continues, "We have decided to give you an engagement present that can't be returned." The two youngest people stare at him expectantly. Neither can figure out what it could be. Until…

"Oyaji, if it is any toy of an embarrassing type, I will kick your ass." Ichigo gives his father the 'Don't you dare' look.

The father laughs guiltily. "I'm saving that for your wedding."

Byakuya closes his eyes tightly in irritation while Ichigo and Rukia scowl with flushed mortification.

There is a throat clearing and all eyes move in that direction. "Um, Isshin, if they don't want the item, I could take it off of your hands for store credit."

Yoruichi simply blinks, Byakuya proceeds to scoff in disgust and Isshin raises his eyebrows in contemplation.

Ichigo catches Rukia's gaze and silently mouths some words to her holding a sickened scowl. "I think I just threw up in my mouth."

Rukia involuntarily snorts. Ichigo always makes her laugh. I am so crazy about you.

When everyone turns back to her, they regain their composure.

"Oh, as I was saying, we have a present for you," Isshin continues. "We are going to bond your souls, tonight."

"Huh?" Ichigo can't believe what he heard. As hard as things were a couple of hours ago, he's just lost. He has been on a roller coaster, today.

Gasping, Rukia almost bursts with joy and smiles widely. This is better than she was hoping to achieve. "Thank you, Tou-san and Bya-nii!"

Isshin calmly walks over to her and hugs her tightly. "You are welcome, Honey. I want to make sure you can't get away from us."

When he releases her, Byakuya is in line to get his hug. With light humor, the noble commands, "Back up, Isshin. Don't hog all of the hugs for yourself." He wraps his arms around her with gentle security. "I am most happy that we can make you happy."

He detaches from her, takes her hand and pats it wearing a warm smile. "Let us be on our way, yes?"

Rukia nods with a mirroring expression. "Hai."

Isshin gets things moving again. "Everyone grab your coat and follow Juushiro. Don't forget your soul candy!" As everyone files out, Isshin and Byakuya hold the younger kids back.

The father brings out a zippered garment bag as does Byakuya. At this point, the Kuchiki takes the lead. "We felt that, since you are both stepping out as adults, you needed adult outer wear.

"Ichigo, we thought a top coat would be appropriate and Rukia, I have something special for you, as well."

When Isshin opens the bag, Ichigo is taken back. Out comes a wool and camel hair top coat. "That's mine?"

His father smirks. "Yeah, kid." He opens the coat toward Ichigo. "Let's get you finished."

When the son gets the black coat around him, he gives his reflection a once over. He is kind of surprised by how refined he looks. It's kind of weird.

He turns to Rukia for an opinion. "What do you think? Does it look okay or do I look stupid?" Her expression melts his heart.

"You look…better than I could have imagined."

Staring down at the floor, he smirks. "Thanks, Midget."

Byakuya takes his turn. "Rukia, the fur stole that belonged to your sister is no longer in style. I had it fastened to a coat. I hope you enjoy what I have selected." Opening the bag, he reveals a black cashmere belted coat with a grey fox shall collar.

"Wow… It's beautiful! Are you sure-"

"I am certain, Rukia. Hisana would be displeased if I did not put her things to use." When violet eyes meet grey, he smiles. "She'd be even more displeased if I did not give it to you. It gives me great pleasure to offer this present to you."

The brother assists his sister with her coat. Once everything is closed, she rubs the fur. It is so soft. But… "Chappie didn't die to have this, did he?"

Ichigo laughs out loud causing Rukia to scowl at him.

Byakuya snorts in humor. "No. No new animals died to make this. I recycled the pelt of animals that already met their demise; 45 years ago.

"But, the coat looks lovely on you."

As Ichigo had done before her, she inspects her reflection. The coat goes below her knees and the cuffs match the collar. Just like before, she doesn't even recognize herself.

"Stop fussing. You would be beautiful in a paper sack.

"As someone once told me, you make the coat look good."

Rukia turns back to the tenor voice and gives him the raised brow. "Come on, Berry. We have a date with eternity."

Ichigo makes his way over to Rukia, kisses her cheek and takes her hand. "I would not have it any other way."

They start out towards the door when they are halted.

The two older men stare at them with smirks. Isshin matter-of-factly offers, "You might want to wait for us. We have the directions."

Ichigo and Rukia sigh and let Byakuya and Isshin ahead of them. As they walk, they are blinded by flashing lights.

When their heads turn, all of Rukia's attendants are waving and taking pictures. They are pleased with how great Rukia looks next to her future husband.

Though he wants to be irritated, he is grateful for what they have done. "Hey, thank you for making her even more beautiful than usual."

As the ladies giggle their thank yous, Rukia whispers over to them with a wink, "I told you that 'handsome' wasn't even the right word."

In unison, all eight ladies give a thumbs up.

Once the door is closed, Ichigo and Rukia turn red to the sound that comes from the room.

"KYAAA! Really cute babies!"

Staring up in the sky, Rukia moves her eyes around each star. With the exception of the older shinigami around her and Ichigo, there is no sound. She wonders if she will feel any different when this is over.

Though she is not afraid, she'd be lying if she were to deny her anxiousness.

Just like each sky light, she and Ichigo will return to their place within each other's orbit without exception. This cannot be undone…nor would she want it to be.

Rukia will never be alone again. Wherever the path goes, he will be with her. She now has a true companion. This is the best that life can ever offer. Just like the love she has for Berry, her gratitude is infinite.

Involuntarily, she reaches over and takes Ichigo's hand. Thank you for pulling me out of hell.

Life begins and ends with him.

Though Ichigo sees the stars, he really concentrates on the darkness. It reminds him of when he went into the pit and came out a shinigami. It was scary and horribly painful. But when he re-emerged, a new him was born.

Every time he does something like this, Rukia is always at the other end; her light…her energy…

Her love.

Shortness brings out the best in him. All of his power and strength is because of and for her. He is uniting with one person; his alpha and omega.

When he feels her hand take his, he smiles.

My world.

Ichigo and Rukia lie on futons that are on top of cleared ground. They are out of their bodies and on a cold cloudless night about five miles from the resort.

The location was selected because it would cause very little damage and there would not be anything to interrupt what needs absolute concentration on the parts of all parties.

Their internal thoughts are cut as the upside down faces of Byakuya and Isshin come into view. The men smile down at them.

"Rukia and Kozo, are you ready?" Byakuya knows it irritates Ichigo to be called that, but it is actually said with a warmth that gets a smirk in return.

"Yeah, Sakura Boy."

"Hai, Bya-nii."

The brother puts his fingers to his lips and places them on her forehead. "This is going to hurt. But the pain will only last a short while. Okay?"

Taking her heavy inhale and exhale, she prepares herself. "Hai."

Isshin only winks. He is proud of them.

Bringing himself fully upright, he puts the destiny of his oldest children in motion. "Well, guys, it has been a while since most of us have seen this go down. And, it gives me great pride to have it be my boy; my oldest who is marrying a girl who I have not only respect for, but a fatherly love that makes my heart burst with joy.

"I believe that Masaki would be very, very happy."

He looks over at Byakuya. "Hisana-san would be happy, as well."

Said man nods in appreciation. He is thankful to Isshin for his kind words and he must agree.

"So, here is the deal. Ruichi will put up the barrier to keep what is going on from getting out to Soul Society. Kisuke will open the void to let your zanpakutos out. Juu and Sui will break the seals to allow your reiryoku to fully manifest. Byakuya and I will bind your reiryoku together. Tsuka will do the heavy lifting of manipulating time and intertwining your worlds.

"I am not going to lie to you. It is going to be extremely painful, in the beginning. The very essence of who you are; the soul and its world; is going to have a portion of it taken off to create something new. But, what is done today, can never be taken apart unless your souls cannot be reborn.

"So, hold on tight and it will be all over within about fifteen minutes, alright?"

Ichigo and Rukia nod with solemn expressions. They don't know what to expect but decide to believe.

They believe in the proceedings that they hope will make them one person, one heart, one soul…

One.