Bleach Fan Fiction ❯ She Will Be Loved ❯ Chapter 15 ( Chapter 15 )

She Will Be Loved

 

By Tituba

 

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or any Bleach affiliates.

 

(A/N: I want to dedicate this chapter to Isabella90, Haji quest33, and AnimePrincessInuLover, who have been faithfully reviewing since the beginning of this story. Other dedications will come because I love everyone else who has reviewed.

And for those of you who think Orihime is too OOC, there is a reason, I promise, but later, kay? :)

So here's the next chapter, I hope you enjoy it.)

 

 

 

 

Chapter 15

 

Rukia shifted the linen of her simple dress and smoothed it out with her fingers. The artificial glow from the lamp was casting a warm shadow at her feet and she wiggled the folds of her clothing to make it dance. She smiled and did a full-out twirl, almost letting out a girlish giggle in the process.

 

She examined herself in the mirror once more before nodding and patting down her hair. Tonight would be fun. After all, everyone knew what tonight was, they knew it was special.

 

“Rukia!”

 

Rukia's feet stopped the normal plodding and she frowned, looking up from the book she had been reading. Her head inclined to the side and she blinked into the bright sunlight, as if it was the first time she had seen it all day.

 

“Rukia!”

 

There it was again. Rukia sighed when she recognized the voice and was tempted to just continue walking. Instead she stood quietly; she didn't want to be rude on such a nice autumn day.

 

She turned her body towards the end of the street and silently closed her book, making sure to keep one finger inside to mark her page. Orihime was bounding towards her. Her bright orange hair was out in full, dancing and swishing against the bright beams of the sun. Her hand was raised over her head in an energetic wave and she barreled towards Rukia, all the while her large breasts bounced up and down. She was dressed in a light pink shirt and a complimenting yellow skirt—neither of which looked particularly good in accordance with her hair, but Orihime didn't seem to mind.

 

Rukia forced a tight-lipped smile onto her face and cocked her head to the side just a bit. She hoped that even Orihime would notice the tension in her stance and have the good sense to turn around and walk away.

 

Orihime ran the rest of the way towards Rukia and was panting lightly when she stopped, she even bent down a bit and pressed her palms to her knees, panting at the slight effort.

 

Ishida, Chad, and Ichigo were not far behind the bouncing girl. Their bodies were casting massive and lengthy shadows on the sidewalk beneath their feet. Rukia raised her head to the three of them and acknowledged each one. Chad nodded back to her and murmured something along the lines of a grunt or a sigh. Rukia had been with him long enough to know that it was some type of greeting sound. Ishida addressed her formally and even bowed his head a bit. Rukia smiled at this but couldn't get rid of the weird feeling it left in the pit of her stomach.

 

Her eyes fell on Ichigo last; her cool violet gaze struck his burning amber ones with a nuclear force. She knew that he could feel a shudder running down his spine. She could feel the same tremor sliding over her back. It was always like this when she saw him. Always this chill feeling on the outside while her insides became heated and tense.

 

Her eyes swept over his form and she immediately had to swallow the emotions surging inside of her. He was not dressed in his uniform, no one was. It was Saturday and they were dressed mainly in street clothes. Ichigo looked like a god in his. He wore dark blue jeans that hugged every inch of his muscular legs and made her head spin when she looked at him. He was also wearing a tight fitting gray tee covered sensually by a subtle leather jacket. Rukia knew that the moment he took off that jacket she would be able to see every inch of his steel hardened abdomen and his sinewy biceps. Her stomach quivered with the thought of it.

 

He looked away and so did she, partly embarrassed by her vigorous scrutiny.

 

“Rukia!” Orihime said.

 

“Yes?” Rukia finally answered, “I heard you the first two times, Orihime.”

 

Orihime grinned and leaned forward, taking Rukia's slim wrists into her soft hands. Rukia disliked Orihime's hands, it always made her wonder if she had climbed trees as a child or if she had played in the mud or even if she had ever actually gotten dirty in the grand expanse of her life. Her hands were just too soft. They didn't have the roughness that Rukia's hands had. Or Ichigo's for that matter. What were hands like hers doing with hands like his? She swallowed and told herself to forget the question.

 

“So, Rukia, what are you doing today?” Orihime asked excitedly, squeezing Rukia's wrists just a bit harder. “Ichi, Chad, Uryuu and I were just about to go over to the mall.” She let out a high giggle and threw a glance back at the boys behind her. “I need to get that dress I've told you about and they need to be fitted for tuxedos. I told them that I would help, you know, since I'm the only girl here.” She must have found that statement particularly amusing because she let out another peal of laughter and danced lightly on her tiptoes.

 

Rukia stole glanced back at the boys and fractionally raised an eyebrow. Chad's eyes were hidden behind his hair but she could tell by the slight tint in his cheeks that he was not happy about going to rent a tuxedo. Ishida was simply looking away, his face was filled with even more red than Chad's and due to his pale skin it was much more recognizable.

 

Ichigo was the only one not avoiding her gaze. He looked straight at her, his tawny eyes scratching deep into her soul.

 

Orihime was still talking to her, dazedly, she turned back to the vacant girl and continued listening.

 

“Oh Rukia, would you like to go with us?” She asked, her voice was filled with so much sweetness and hope that it was ridiculous. She immediately let go of Rukia's wrists and began to twirl around the sidewalk, her skirt throwing off strange patterns on the street. “We can both go shopping for dresses to homecoming together! I'll bet you'd look good in anything and then we can go get my dress! And then we can go get smoothies and go see a movie and have a sleep over and—”

 

“Orihime!” Rukia called, desperate to get a word in with this girl, but honestly, it was similar to trying to talk to a six year old hyped up on sugar.

 

The girl stopped talking but didn't stop twirling, her yellow skirt was making strange shadow patterns against the concrete but she didn't notice. Her creamy white legs occasionally peaked through, allowing anyone a glimpse of her perfectly formed appendages.

 

Rukia swallowed and shook her head, she just didn't want to deal with this now.

 

“Orihime,” she continued plainly, “I'm not going to go to Homecoming.”

 

Orihime stopped twirling. Ishida looked over towards Rukia. Chad turned his ear in her direction but didn't stop looking at a bird in a tree. Ichigo just continued staring at her, his gaze was now hotter than ever.

 

Orihime looked as though she had been sucker-punched directly in the center of her stomach. Her eyes went wide and her mouth opened slightly. Her nostrils were flared and her face had drained of all its blood. Silence descended upon the five people standing on the sidewalk. Rukia wasn't sure how long it lasted, she only knew that by the time Orihime began talking again she was seriously considering walking away with her nose in her book.

 

“B-But…” the girl sputtered, her pale lips gaping like a fish as she tried to form the words. “Rukia… its Homecoming!” She cried, launching herself forward and gripping Rukia's arm tightly. “It's our first and only homecoming dance! You have to be there!” Her eyes widened and she began to frantically look around. “Is it because you don't have a date? Has anyone asked you? Do you not have a dress? Did your brother make you stay home? I'm sure Haji would let you go, he would wouldn't he? Are you—”

 

Rukia jerked her wrist away from Orihime's vice-like grip and curled her lips up into a forced smile.

 

“Orihime,” she said calmly, beginning to edge away from the girl for fear of being pounced on again, “It none of that, I just don't feel like going.” She shrugged and began to open her book.

 

Orihime looked like she was on the verge of tears. “B-B-But R-Rukia…” she whispered, her arms falling lifelessly to her sides.

 

Rukia smiled half-heartedly at her. “It's my choice, Orihime, I just don't feel like going.” Seeing that she was almost ready to burst into tears she hurriedly added, “Remember Ms. Ochi talking about that meteor shower that was going to happen on Homecoming night? I think I might go there instead.” She let her eyes sweep the people standing before her, Ishida and Chad seemed to think of the shower as a veritable excuse for missing homecoming. Ichigo's gaze was still unreadable. She turned around. “I'll see you guys later.” She said as she opened her book and began to read, walking along her way.

 

Yet for some reason, she couldn't even begin to focus on the words. The only thing that was inside of her mind were Ichigo's eyes… and how extremely brilliant they had looked in the afternoon sun.

 

Rukia walked down the steps and made her way to the kitchen. She stepped inside by pushing the swinging door out of the way. It vacillated back but she jumped out of its way before it could hit her in the back.

 

She looked up at the chef and smiled softly. He heard the tapping of her feet on the linoleum and glanced up, his grin was instantaneous and he beamed. “Well Rukia, how are you tonight? Lovely night I hear.”

 

“Yes Chef,” she said, using the name she had called him since she was little. She walked forwards a bit and leaned against the counter, her arms rested softly on the marble and she sighed, “I think it'll be a good night.”

 

“Well that's just wonderful,” he said, turning around and grasping two thermoses before twisting again and placing them before her. “I hope you like it, I used my famous recipe, handed down from my mother's mother.”

 

Rukia screwed off the lid and drew in a deep whiff of the heavenly smelling drink. Before her nose became greedy and tempted her mouth to take a sip she riveted the cap into place. Her tiny nose missed the scent already but she forced herself to ignore it. “Thanks so much Chef,” she said airily, “I know it'll be good.”

 

He nodded and reached out to pat her head. “It's going to take a while for me to get used to you being in the kitchen again.” He grinned and threw his arms dramatically in the air, his French background flaring to life as he did so. “But no matter, I'll teach you how to make the greatest food even if it costs me my life! Ne vous inquiétez pas, très chère.”

 

Rukia laughed in a light, tinkling, sound. “Je ne m'inquiétais pas, c'est vrai!”

 

Chef's laugh boomed out, “Your French, est vraiment bon, ma chère.”

 

Rukia reached forward and grabbed the two thermoses. She said goodbye to Chef and promised she would help him cook dinner soon. With that she went towards the foyer and placed her equipment in a bag.

 

“Go Karin!” Rukia shouted, jumping up and down in excitement as Karin sped past another boy and slammed her foot into the soccer ball. It didn't even bounce against the ground as it shot directly into the goal. The ball pushed against the net and almost seemed like it was going to break through. Rukia shouted in triumph and jumped up and down, twirling into a circle as she did so. The referee blew the whistle and Karin yelled in triumph. The goal cinched the win, five to four, Karakura won.

 

Karin beamed happily and she swerved around to Rukia, giving her a thumbs up before she was enveloped by her team in a group hug. Rukia grinned and returned the gesture. She watched as Karin was lifted onto the shoulders of several boys before being set down near the snacks. She was bombarded with little cupcakes and juice boxes while her teammates smothered her with punches on the arm, quick hugs, and in the case of one little white-haired teammate, a kiss smack on the lips. All of the players in the area began to make cooing catcalls towards the two, who blushed madly. Karin returned his tiny kiss and then dashed out of the group, smilingly eccentrically.

 

“Rukia!” Karin called, her voice high and a bit breathless. She rushed forward and hugged her older friend around her waist. Rukia hugged her back and then released her.

 

“So Karin,” Rukia said, smiling heartily, “I didn't know that the `stupid boy' you were talking about was that one on your team.”

 

Karin's face became even redder and she looked away. “W-Well, I-I… may-maybe.”

 

Rukia laughed and nodded, she turned to the side and wrapped her arm around Karin's shoulder. Karin was actually one of the few people who was actually shorter than Rukia so it was rather fun to walk with her—just to feel taller.

 

Karin looked up at Rukia, her expression turning to one of worry, “You don't think my brother saw it, do you?”

 

“Hm?” Rukia asked, her mind tuning into what Karin was saying.

 

“My brother,” Karin said, her voice going from one of worry to one of chiding irritation, “Earth to Rukia, he's in the stands.” She pointed to the right and Rukia turned her head, looking into the stands for the first time since her arrival.

 

However, Ichigo's orange head wasn't the only one to be seen. There was another person sitting beside him who possessed hair just as light. Orihime was sitting beside Ichigo, her two arms were wrapped around one of his. She was staring around the field, constantly looking up at Ichigo, pointing to odd places, and talking to him, apparently asking him things about soccer that she didn't understand.

 

Karin snorted, “You should have seen her when we first came here. She asked why there were huge baskets at two sides of the field. Even dad thought that was a little dim, and he's my dad.”

 

Rukia sighed and shook her head, they were coming closer to the stands, she could see Isshin and Yuzu look her way. The moment's Isshin's eyes hit her he began to bounce up and down in his seat like a three year old. Yuzu called out her name and the orange-headed couple turned their heads.

 

Rukia looked away before she could meet Ichigo's eyes and gave Karin another pat on the shoulder.

 

Karin looked up at her and Rukia saw that the young girl's expression had turned from one of victorious glory to one of slight desperation. “Rukia-chan,” she began, using the familiar honorific Rukia had not heard in a long time. “Will you please go to dinner with us? Dad said if we won this game that he would take us out to eat, but Ichi-nii invited Orihime-chan.” She gave a disgusting twist to Orihime's honorific.

 

They came to a stop in front of the bleachers and Karin's family began to descend, “Rukia,” her voice was lower and her teeth seemed to be clenched. “I know there's something going on between you and Ichi-nii, but honestly, if you two don't fix it soon I'm going to have to bash Orihime-chan in the head with my soccer ball.”

 

Rukia swallowed and gave her another small hug. “It's not my place Karin.” She whispered softly, “Trust me, Ichigo knows the terms, your brother just needs to think about what he wants.”

 

Isshin, Yuzu, Ichigo, and Orihime had reached the bottom steps and Rukia released her hold on Karin. The younger girl took one more moment to turn to her and frown. “Well, he doesn't want her.” She said vehemently, nodding towards Orihime. Her voice was quiet but her tone left nothing to doubt.

 

“Rukia-chan!” Isshin squealed as he bounded before her and enveloped her in a large bear-hug. “Oh my third daughter! It is so lovely to see you again!”

 

“Rukia!” Yuzu laughed, she came towards the petite girl and hugged her as well. Rukia wondered if her ribs would be crushed after the two members of the Kurosaki family finished squeezing her.

 

She laughed quietly when they released her. “Hey guys, just thought I'd come by and see Karin win the championships.”

 

“It's so wonderful to have you here!” Isshin cried, tears practically leaking from his eyes, “I was wondering if you hated us!”

 

Rukia's smile faltered and she glanced at Ichigo. Orihime was staring aimlessly up at the sky while he was staring at Rukia. Her stomach churned as he gazed at her. There were butterflies broiling in her belly, but they were tight ones, ones that merged so easily with nerves it was nearly impossible to distinguish them.

 

“No,” Rukia said swiftly, hoping that Isshin didn't notice her glance at Ichigo, “I don't hate you guys. I've just been very busy.”

 

Yuzu came to stand in front of her father and her face became serious. “We heard about your sister. We're very sorry.” Her voice was solemn and sad, Rukia could even see a few tears in the little girls' eyes.

 

Rukia smiled thinly and she reached out to pat Yuzu on the head, her hand moved down and she caught a few of Yuzu's tears with her thumb. “It's okay, don't worry about it Yuzu.”

 

Yuzu brightened immediately at Rukia's calming words and gestures. She grinned toothily and clapped her hands in front of her face. “I know! I'll make your favorite dish next time you come over to our house!”

 

Rukia smiled, “And I can actually help you too. Chef's actually been teaching me how to cook. I can boil water now without burning the house down.”

 

Yuzu giggled and she looked towards her father. “Dad, can Rukia-chan come with us? To dinner I mean.”

 

Before Isshin could answer, Rukia cut in swiftly. She smiled at Yuzu and Karin then said, “Oh, I can't tonight. Chef has actually decided to trust me with a knife today. I'm going to learn how to cut vegetables properly without tearing them up.” She nudged Yuzu just a bit. “Maybe I'll be as good as you one day.” She teased.

 

Yuzu giggled but her face was slightly downcast. “Oh… well, if you have to…”

 

“Yeah,” Rukia nodded, turning to Karin and congratulating her once again. Isshin gave her another hug before he let her go. Rukia walked away quickly. She hoped that no one noticed she hadn't said a word to either Ichigo or Orihime.

 

Rukia opened the door and immediately looked at the sky. Stripes of cotton candy clouds were streaked across the cerulean sky. Rukia drew in a deep breath and smelled the heady scent of cinnamon flavored autumn. She smiled softly and hefted her small bag onto her shoulder. Tonight would be a good night.

 

*~*~*

 

Ichigo stood in front of the mirror in his room and straightened his tie. He cleared his throat as the bow finally settled into place. He sighed and looked down at himself. This tuxedo made him look awfully strange. He never liked wearing formal clothes but Orihime had insisted. She had tried to make him buy a powdered blue tux at first but Ichigo told her that if he was going to be forced to wear a tux it was sure as hell going to be black.

 

“Ichi-nii!” Yuzu called from downstairs, “Ichi-nii! Orihime called, she's waiting!”

 

“I'm coming!” Ichigo called back. His voiced sounded scraggly and worn. He swallowed heavily and shook his head, turning once to look out the window. It was still early. The sky was blue and orange and pink yet the night was coming in fast.

 

He sighed, feeling so… so… down. He didn't want to go to homecoming tonight. He didn't want to spend the entire evening with Orihime Inoue. He wanted… he wanted…

 

He wanted to spend all night, just lying down with Rukia, silence enfolding them as they just breathed together.

 

“Rukia.” He murmured, running a hand through his hair, making it stick up like it normally did. He did it once again before he remembered that Orihime would probably brush it back down.

 

He turned away from his window and did not get to see the little star that streaked across the sky.

 

 

 

 

 

 

*The French in there said:

 

“Don't worry my dear.”

“I'm not worried, it's true!”

“Your French, it's very excellent my dear.”

 

Tidoo provided the French wording because she's awesomely French and I'm… well, not. : )

 

Its cheesy, I know, but in the context…

 

You know, the literal translation of “mon puce” is “my flea,” but it's used as a term of endearment in France. So there you go.