48Disclaimer: All Kubo Tite's
Ichigo doesn't know what he is feeling at the moment. Because at this very moment, he is sitting opposite his old flame, his first love, his very first ex-girlfriend. His ex-girlfriend who is now an Architect they are hiring to design their house. Next to him is his fiancée who is very excited telling the Architect what she want her house to be.
When his fiancée insisted they meet this Architect that designed her friend's house, and said that she wants to hire her, he agreed since he doesn't really care whoever designs their house. When they went to her office, they were asked to wait a little as she is still engaged with another meeting, and when they were finally accepted, he was shocked beyond belief.. the Architect was none other than Rukia Kuchiki.
The Rukia Kuchiki whom he has loved dearly but hurt deeply.
He is not sure if she recognized him at all because when they were introduced, she did not show any sign that she knows him, not even a twitch in her eye.. Damn, she still carry that cold attitude.
Ichigo inwardly snort, he is way too familiar with that expression less face. He could still vividly recall their first few meetings…
XOXOXOXOXOX
9 years ago…
Karakura High. First day of Ichigo's last year in High School. He has been looking forward in going to College for he thinks it'll be the start of really living his life. Little did he know that this year he will fall deeply in love only to be left broken.
As he run fast to catch his first class, he bumps into someone, someone petite, dark hair and with the most beautiful eyes he has ever laid his eyes on. Purple he thinks. The set of eyes is narrowed and he thinks he heard her say something, but Ichigo's mind is somewhere else that he couldn't comprehend what she is saying until…
"Ouch! What was that for?" he yelled at the girl with her hand still up and balled. But before the girl could yell back, a hand went to her shoulder and led her away. Ichigo just stand there looking at the pair with the other guy glaring at him as if to say, 'stay away from her or else'.
Ichigo, for the first time in his life, he got fascinated by a girl. So he watch her every time he can. One time during P.E., he was watching her doing exercise with the girls. "Don't even think about it. Set your eyes to someone else." His friend Uryuu said.
"What do you mean? I'm not thinking anything!" Balked Ichigo, then sigh "Alright, tell me why not?" he demanded.
"Kurosaki, that girl is KUCHIKI Rukia, you have heard of the Kuchikis right? They are not easily to be approached. You see that red head over there, if you even come 5 step closer to her, you will be sent back before you even realize it. Didn't you even noticed that none of the guys here approach her despite of her being the most popular girl in the campus? I'm not just saying because she's extremely rich, she's also a candidate for Valedictorian, I heard she's also very kind, someone saw her always visiting the Children's Orphanage and helping out there. Not to mention she's really easy in the eye."
"So, what does that have to do with me wanting to meet her? I don't care if she's rich or anything of that, I just want to know her." Said Ichigo while sauntering towards Rukia.
"Hi! Aren't you the one who knocks me on the head on our first day of School? I'm still waiting for your apology." Ichigo said with a smirk. The girl whose back was on him shifted her head so that she can see him, she glance at him over her shoulder then turn back again as if he didn't say anything. Ichigo's eye twitch. "Hey, I'm talking to you!" He yelled. Finally, the girl turn and said in a monotone voice, "who are you?" Ichigo's eye double twitch.. but before he can say anything, a guy came, the same guy who whisked her away before, and asked "Rukia, is this guy bothering you?" "No, Renji, you can go back to your class." She said and walks away.
Ichigo is disappointed. Disappointed is even an understatement, he is frustrated, dammit. It has been a couple of months now since his last "talk" with Rukia. He had tried approaching her again and again but he couldn't get her alone, she's always with her friend Momo if not with this guy "Renji."
As usual, Uryuu finds him staring at her again and said "I told you, forget it, she's outta your league. Stop stalking her."
Ichigo is not bad looking per se. He's also popular, what with his orange hair and perpetual scowling face. He excels in Kendo, Basketball and Football. He's also running for honors. Receives confessions every now and then, but he feels nothing for these girls.. until he saw her.
"What the hell! I'm not stalking her!"
Uryuu gave him a pointed look. Ichigo defeated, "I don't care, Uryuu. I want her."
Ichigo couldn't explain himself. He is not obsessed, but he just couldn't stop thinking about her. The more he observes her, the more he wants her. Ichigo snorted, so this is what liking someone feels huh. He is not entirely oppose to it though. Because now he feels something, even though he can't discern what that something is. He just know that every time he see her smile or laugh, or just see her, he feels- dare he say it, happy. Yeah, happy.
So one day while he was on an errand (Onii-chan we ran out of eggs!), luck struck him. He saw her walking alone with too many bags in her hands (how she can carry those bags, he doesn't know). So he saunter to her and ask if she wants help, but what he really said was "Hey Midget, do you always carry that much? No wonder you stop growing. Here, let me carry them, maybe you will still have a chance…" to which he received a kick in the shin. Damn she can kick. Oh right, she's also excellent in Karate. Is there anything this girl couldn't do?
"Hey, give me back my bags! And who are you again?" yelled Rukia
That's right, she doesn't even know my name. "The name's Ichigo Kurosaki, we go to the same school, you bump into me on our first day remember?"
"ahh the berry-head" she smirked. Did she just call me that and smirked. Huh, there's hope after all.
"the name's I-CHI-GO! Not berry-head! Tsh! Where are you heading anyway?
Uryuu had been right. It turns out she's heading to the Children's Orphanage. He watch her being tackled by kids who are very happy seeing their nee-chan. He helped her distribute the toys she brought (that he carried, no wonder they're heavy). He watch her smiling and laughing and playing with the kids. And in that moment on, he thought he honestly couldn't love this girl enough. He fell hard.
XOXOXOXOXO
Present
"What do you think, Hon?"
"What?"
"I told Ms. Kuchiki that I want a 5 bedroom, 2 Bathroom and a provision for swimming pool" his fiancée said excitedly.
"Yeah, whatever" replied Ichigo without looking to both women.
"Ms. Kuchiki, If possible, we also want to meet the Engineer who will be in-charge of building our house." ask Inoue
"That will not be a problem. Once everything is finalized, I will arrange for Engr. Abarai to sit with you both." She told Inoue without looking to Ichigo. Ichigo stiffened. Abarai huh.
"Do you get along well with the Engineer, Ms. Kuchiki? I heard that the Engineer and the Architect have to be in good term to avoid complications," ask Inoue.
"Yes, I know him personally Ms. Inoue. Besides, I am an Engineer myself, so there will be less requirements of Engineer at this stage." Rukia said.
"Wow, aside from being an Architect, you're also an Engineer. You must be very bright in school, Ms. Kuchiki." Gush Inoue. Ichigo wouldn't be surprised if Rukia holds another degree aside from those two.
"Thanks. Now Ms. Inoue, Mr. Kurosaki, kindly fill this form, and from here I will see your requirements and I will start to design your house, when I finish the first draft, I will send it to you for your review. Please give the filled form to Ms. Hitsugaya, I believe she's in now." Rukia said, standing up. She ushered them to a spare room where they can fill the form and left. Ichigo watch her leave.
When they are done with the form, filled by Inoue with little participation from Ichigo, they went to Ms. Hitsugaya who Ichigo was shocked to know was Momo, their high school classmate. When Momo looked up, "Ichigo?!" at least someone finally recognized him.
"Hey, Momo, how's it going?" greets Ichigo.
"You know each other, Hon?" asked Inoue.
"Yeah, we were school mates in High School." Said Ichigo.
"Wow, that's great, Hon, it's a small world isn't?" gush Inoue.
Momo averted her eyes and said in small voice "yeah it is".. "So are you done with the form yet?.. oh great, we will contact you with the first draft then, Mrs. Kurosaki?" louder this time. Ichigo flinched and he didn't know why.
At home, Ichigo couldn't sleep, every time he closes his eyes, he see Rukia. She has changed a lot, he thinks. She has become more beautiful, her eyes became even more captivating, she has become even more elegant, he didn't think that is even possible. She filled up in some areas too. He blushed, now his mind went to the time when he feels the happiest in the 17 years of his life.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
8 years ago
Ichigo couldn't be happier, he has been going out with Rukia for months now, how he managed that, he doesn't want to think, it wasn't in the least easy, mind you. Aside from the threats and challenges he dealt with Renjie and the Kuchikis, their relationship went pretty smoothly. He introduced Rukia to his family and he couldn't believe, after meeting his father, Rukia still wants him. The twins adores her and looks up to her.
It was the end of February, they were going home from visiting an orphanage in a nearby town. They have not been driving long when rain started and it became heavy. The road starting to get blurry, when Ichigo's truck suddenly lurched. Ichigo stop the truck and find out he have a flat tire. This is going to be a problem as they weren't even half way near the next town. They have both left their phones at home so there's no way to contact for help. Ichigo looked at the surrounding, trying to search for somewhere to shelter them while waiting for the rain to stop, he found none.
"Rukia, we have to get out and search some place we can wait until the rain stops!" Shouts Ichigo. So, they ran, and luckily enough they found a shack, this will do, Ichigo thought. They checked and found it was empty. But there was evidence that someone lived there. They lit a fire and huddled next to it. Ichigo sat behind Rukia and embrace her. Rukia snuggled to his arms.
"I'm sorry our trip is ruined." Whispered Ichigo near Rukia's ears. Rukia looked up, smiled and said, "No, it isn't, you're still with me. I'm happy Ichigo. Thank you for accompanying me." Ichigo tighten his embrace and kissed her forehead. "No need to thank me, Rukia." Ichigo thought she might not have any idea how happy she made him every time they're together. That he has turned into a sappy fool, not that he will ever tell her that, or he will never hear the end of it.
He feels Rukia shivered, and he tightened his embrace more. "Rukia, are you cold? Maybe it is because of our clothes, they are wet." He remove his hands from Rukia and started to remove his shirt.
"Idiot! What are you doing?" bristled Rukia.
"I am removing my shirt, you should too, let's dry them." Said Ichigo nonchalantly.
"What? I am not removing my clothes!" huffed Rukia.
"Up to you, but I am. Now come here." Ichigo gathered her again in his embrace. Rukia sigh unconsciously. She feels the warmth emanating from Ichigo's body. After a few minutes…
"Fine! I will remove my dress, but make no move Ichigo, or I swear I will kick you to oblivion!" threatened Rukia. She started to loosen the zipper and reveal her creamy back to Ichigo.
Ichigo gulped. He is starting to think it's not a good idea anymore. He's praying he have enough self-control now. Yes, they have kissed, made out even. But that's the extent of it. He loves Rukia so much he doesn't want to force her for his selfish needs. When their making out is becoming unbearable that he wants to take her there and then, he focuses his mind on something to abate his desire.
Now though, it is only the two of them, in a shack with nobody to disturb them. Rukia has removed her dress, she's now only in her flimsy camisole, with a pair of underwear underneath. Ichigo gulp again.
Rukia placed her dress next to Ichigo's, and settled down in front of Ichigo's body again. Ichigo slowly move his arms around Rukia. His head on top of hers. He feels Rukia shivered again. He tightened his embrace and kiss her on her cheek. He tilted her head so that he can kiss her on the lips. The kiss started slow and eventually became passionate. She shifted Rukia so that she is now straddling him. Ichigo's hands still tightly wrapped at her back and waist. He's afraid if he moves them there is no stopping him from going further. Although he feels Rukia's hand is now at his bicep, the other one tangled in his hair. He tentatively put his hand on her stomach and feels her skin there. She moans and before he knows it his lips are now on Rukia's chest and hand on her breast.
"Rukia" Ichigo warns, "If we continue further, I don't think I will be able to stop." Ichigo pleads.
"Then don't stop Ichigo." Whispered Rukia.
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Present
Ichigo find himself having a cold bath in the middle of the night. He sleeps fitfully that night, and the succeeding nights that he started to develop eye bugs.
"Dr. Kurosaki, you have phone call, it's your fiancée." His assistant called. Ichigo always doesn't appreciate Orihime calling him during duty. He is sure, she'll just ask some details if not their wedding then their house.
"Yeah?"
"Ichigo! I'm glad you answered, Ms. Hitsugaya sent the first draft of our house. I want to review them with you. I took a peek and Oh! I love it already. Ms. Kuchiki has done a great job! Are you free today? I asked if it is okay to see her today and Ms. Hitsugaya said its fine, she can do the modification right away."
See Rukia again huh. I wonder if Orihime will still be this comfortable talking to Rukia when she gets to know that she was the only source of her jealousy when they were starting their relationship. He had told Orihime that he had deeply loved a girl before, he only skip telling her the girl's name. It might not be an issue anymore, it has been more than 8 years for crying out loud. Besides, he is sure Rukia hates him still.
"My duty ends in 2 hours. I will pick you up".
"That's great! See you later. Love you!"
"Yeah".
Let's see if Rukia will still keep that stoic face. Will she still look at him coldly? Although now that he remembers, the look she gave him two weeks ago was nothing compared to that time, that time when she had looked at him with that cold cold eyes of hers and until now he still feels his heart clenched a little.
XOXOXOXOXOXO
8 years ago
Graduation is coming near, it's going to be on the last week of March. Of course, Rukia is the Valedictorian, and luckily enough, Ichigo is the Salutatorian.
The graduating students are all gathered in a hall. An event was organized to commemorate the graduates. A slide or video was being shown featuring pictures, embarrassing or not, the achievements of all the clubs and whatnot. Of course, Rukia was featured here and there. Ichigo was so proud of his girlfriend that his heart bloated. He grabbed her hand and did not let go. He was looking at her, only interested in her. His thumb gently caressing the back of her hand. They had planned to enroll in the same University and he couldn't wait to start a college life with her at his side.
A video started and he thought he hears his voice. He looks up, curious.
It was him and Uryuu talking, in the field. He remembers this was when he first time approached Rukia.
"Don't even think about it. Set your eyes to someone else." His friend Uryuu said.
"What do you mean? I'm not thinking anything!" Balked Ichigo, then sigh "Alright, tell me why not?" he demanded.
"Kurosaki, that girl is KUCHIKI Rukia, you have heard of the Kuchikis right? They are not easily to be approached. You see that red head over there, if you even come 5 step closer to her, you will be sent back before you even realized it. Didn't you even noticed that none of the guys here approach her despite of her being the most popular girl in the campus? I'm not just saying because she's extremely rich, she's also a candidate for Valedictorian, I heard she's also very kind, someone saw her always visiting the Children's Orphanage and helping out there. Not to mention she's really easy in the eye".
"So, what does that have to do with me wanting to meet her? I don't care if she's rich or anything of that, I just want to know her."
At this, Ichigo tightened his hold of her hand. Ichigo is scared, no, he is terrified. He is terrified that he will lose this girl next to him. This girl that he vows to protect and to never hurt.
Please let that be the end.. please.. please…
"Stop the video!" someone shouted. Uryuu. Ichigo always knew he's a good friend.
"I told you forget it. She deserves to be with a gentler person and not with a moron like you. I bet you my COC account, she won't even glance your way." Uryuu said, pushing his glasses up.
"You had better kiss your account goodbye, coz Rukia is going to be mine" Ichigo said determinedly, walking towards Rukia.
The video ends.
"You fucking bastard? How dare you!" someone yelled. Ichigo knew it was Renji.
Ichigo felt Rukia trying to remove his hold on her, but he tightened it. "Please Rukia let me explain.."
Rukia stands up and forcefully removed her hand from him. Head down, bangs covering her eyes. "Rukia please look at me.." he pleaded. He wanted badly to see her eyes but when she looks up he wished he didn't. For there in her eyes the coldest look he have ever receive in his entire life, this look did not even compare to the look Byakuya gave him when he had warned him not to hurt his sister. Her face is devoid of any emotion. Ichigo feels his heart breaks into million pieces.
Finally, she speaks. "Enjoy playing." Then she started to walk away. Ichigo couldn't move.. he feels his chest is weighing him down. When she was almost out of sight, he called out to her but before he could even take a step, he felt his face being punched, he tried to get up and run after her but he was restrained.
Ichigo didn't know how long he has been standing in front of Rukia's gate. He have pleaded to the guard to let him in or to call Rukia several times that her brother came out and told him "Kurosaki Ichigo, you have hurt my sister and that is unforgiveable. You are no longer allowed to see her, I advise you take heed or I will make sure the consequences are severe." For which he have replied "I don't care, do what you want! I just want to speak to her. Please let me see her!" Byakuya's back was his answer.
In school, he couldn't get to Rukia instead he got into several fights with Renji that he was called by the principal and warned that he will lose his Salutatorian honor if he will engage into another fight again. In the end he did lose the honor.
Graduation day. Ichigo is desperate. He needed to speak with Rukia. He feels this is his last chance. He couldn't have been more wrong.
Rukia is delivering her Valedictorian speech. He's not really listening. He was just looking at her intently. He only hears some part of her speech which again pierce his heart.
"Of course we have to thank even those who hurt and left us, for they made us stronger and made us aim for a better future and if anyone can make the best of it and start all over again, we can".
After her speech, she didn't return to her seat, instead she went backstage, backstage where a limo is waiting. So he ran, calling out to her, but she didn't turn back. Shit! This is not happening. He ran even when the limo is speeding away until he couldn't see it anymore. Ichigo slump on the pavement, hands on his face. Ichigo thought this is the worst day of his life.
After that, despite all his efforts, he has not seen Rukia or heard anything about her. Rukia has disappeared without a trace.
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Present
"Ms. Kuchiki, thank you for accommodating us today. We saw your drawing and I like it, we only want a little adjustment, right Hon?" asked Inoue. Ichigo grunted but said nothing. He was looking at Rukia. Rukia who is all business not even sparing him a look. She was focus at Inoue.
'Why won't you look at me, midget? I want to see your eyes. It would be great to see you smile again or scowl as long as you show other emotion in that stoic face of yours,' these are all running in Ichigo's mind while looking at Rukia. To his surprise, his thoughts were answered when…
"Mom! Look what I got!"
He saw Rukia's eyes widen and somewhat scared as she finally glanced at him. When she look at the door her eyes became soft…
Ichigo was amazed to see those emotions played in her face so he swiveled his chair to see who have caused it.
If he didn't know what he is feeling when he first saw Rukia, he is even more clueless now.. for in front of him stood a boy, a boy with orange hair, no more than 8 years old he thinks. The boy is cradling a small bunny, beaming at his mother. Then his eyes shift to Ichigo, and Ichigo's heart stop beating at once, his blood ran cold, for he was looking at the same eyes he looks at every morning in the mirror. Amber eyes, the same color as his mother's, as his. He stands up abruptly and face Rukia. Eyes blazing. Myriad of emotions are now rushing through him.
Rukia stands up as well, not meeting his eyes and went to the boy, "I've got a Bunny, mom! Uncle Renji bought me one!" The boy excitedly said, still beaming at his mother.
"That's great, sweetheart! We'll play later, Mommy is working, why don't you go to Renji and I'll come pick you up when I'm finish here, ok?" said Rukia. She ushered him outside and called out to Momo.
When Rukia returned back to her office, Ichigo was still standing, hands balled. "Mr. Kurosaki please sit down."
"The hell I'm sitting down Rukia!" Ichigo is beyond angry, he is shaking.
"How long? How long are planning to keep me in the dark? How long are you going to punish me?" he couldn't help but shout.
"Punish? As if you care! I'm only worth a stupid game account to you, remember?!" she shouted back. Face inches from each other.
"How can you say that when you didn't even let me explain?" Ichigo shouted back. Faces even closer now.
"Hon, calm down. What is happening?" Inoue worried.
"Mr. Kurosaki, this is not the place nor time to talk about this." Said Rukia placidly. She sat down.
"Don't 'Mr. Kurosaki' me. You bet we will talk about this. Don't think that your family can toy me around again. I'm not some stupid teenager anymore." Ichigo hissed. Hands still on the table.
"Rukia, is there a problem? We heard… Oh it's you." Renji look squarely at Ichigo, Ichigo looked right back and said "Abarai, always to the rescue huh!"
"Orihime, let's go" Ichigo started walking but before he reach the door, he turn back to Rukia and announced "I will pick you up tomorrow at noon. We will talk. I suggest you had better be here, if you disappear on me again Rukia, so help me, I will hunt you to the end of the world and nobody can stop me this time."
Ichigo is pacing in his living room. He couldn't believe it. There is no doubt the boy is his. He have a son. A son who looks exactly like him. A son who up until now didn't know existed.
They only did it once but he had gotten her pregnant. He chuckled and sat down.
8 years. 8 years he did not know that there is a mini him running around. He looks so much like me, he thought. He remembers how the boy beams at Rukia. That's how he looks at his mom when he was at his age. Even the spiky hair. He couldn't help but laugh. He wants to know him already, wants to hug him and tell him he is his father. Tomorrow, I will make Rukia introduce me to my son, he thought, determined. He fell asleep.
The next day, Ichigo decided he should speak with Orihime first before his meeting with Rukia.
XXXXXXXVXXXXX
As he sat opposite her, she spoke up. "Ichigo, is she the ex-girlfriend you told me about?"
"Yeah."
So that is her. The girl he had searched relentlessly without success.
"The boy, the boy looks like you." Orihime said, face down.
She feels defeated already, without even going into a fight. She has known all about his first girlfriend. The girl he loved.. love so much. She was a witness of the never ending search he unconsciously did and might still be doing if he hadn't found her weeks ago. Now she understands why he had insisted staying in a building near an establishment owned by Kuchikis when it is far from his work, he even have a subscription of magazine and newspapers that always features the Kuchikis. Most of all, now she knows why Ichigo always give a second look every time a petite girl with short black hair pass by.
She wonders why he even accepted when she confessed to him, seeing that they were exactly opposite. But she's grateful that he even accepted her when he didn't show any interest for so many years.
"Yeah."
"Do..Do you still love her?" She asked. Although deep inside her, she already know the answer. Known from the very beginning they started their relationship. She realized this last night. The way that Ichigo had look at Rukia, so intensely, he barely looked away at her and he has never given her that look. Even when they were fighting, they interact as if they were never apart.
He was never hers, and it hurts.
..
..
"I don't know."
That pause in his answer is confirmation enough.
"You are meeting her today, right? You should go." She said and got up, thinking which one she should cancel first.
If she is your happiness, Ichigo, then I won't stand in your way.
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Inside the restaurant, Ichigo sat opposite Rukia, blatantly staring at her. I can't afford to be intimidated again, thought Ichigo. Rukia just sat there, looking at the menu. "Aren't you going to order, Mr. Kurosaki?"
"I'll have what you'll have. And the name's Ichigo, or have you forgotten?"
She ignored him and signal the waiter who was obviously admiring her from afar. She gave their order and the waiter left blushing. Ichigo rolled his eyes and inwardly said, 'welcome to the club, Kid'.
"So, when are you going to tell me about my son? Or do you plan of ever telling me I have one?" Ichigo asked straightaway.
"No beating around the bush, I see."
"What is his name?"
"Kouichi."
"One Happiness huh! I like his name. Even more so it has "Ichi" in it, he really is my son." Ichigo smirked.
Rukia rolled her eyes. "What makes you think he is yours?"
"Do I need to point out the obvious? Orange hair, brown eyes, a boy who is more or less 8 years old. Because last time I check I have the same feature and as far as I hoped I remember correctly, I was your only boyfriend 9 years ago." Ichigo really hope this was true. He knows he is right but he knows too that Rukia can deny everything he just said. He did not have a proof that he got her pregnant, that the boy's similarity to him might just be a coincidence.
So he waited for her response. Praying and hoping she confirms Kouichi is his. Anyway even if Rukia denies, he knows better. Rukia is a lot of things and chances of her accepting another boyfriend after they just "broke up" is slim to none, unless otherwise she was forced (which he strongly hope is not the case or he will hunt the bastard down). Besides there's always a paternity test.
Rukia looks at him. As if she knows what is running in his mind. Then.. "How are you, I..Ichigo?"
Huh? "I'm fine, and you?"
"Fine. How's Isshin and the twins?"
"Dad's still the same, I'm sure you know what I mean" he gave her a pointed look. "The twins are doing great too." 'They missed you and they keep asking about you' he wants to add but kept it.
"and your friend Uryuu? How's he?" she asked, eyes on her food.
Ichigo became more attentive. They are wading a dangerous water now. He knows they are heading to the very topic he wished he would never touch again.
"He is fine. We work in the same Hospital." He said, averting his eyes for the first time.
He look up "Rukia.. about the video…you know that…" Ichigo started.
"It doesn't matter now Ichigo. Past is past. Besides, I'm actually glad now you took the bet." Said Rukia, while cutting her food.
"Rukia, you have to know.. I didn't pursue you because of that bet! I didn't even play that damn game anymore after I accompanied you to the orphanage the first time. If you had just given me the chance to explain." Ichigo said desperately.
"I have liked you from the time you bump my head!" you crazy woman. Ichigo had thought he had shown her enough proof that he loved her. That she will never doubt his feelings, but alas, her running away from him because of that damn video told him that he had thought wrong. How can she ever think that she was only worth a damn game account? She meant the world to him dammit!
"Eat your food, Ichigo."
He glares at her. Rukia sighed.
"As I said Ichigo, it was in the past now. I'm not troubled about it anymore, have not been for a long time. I've realized it was very childish and I shouldn't have run away." Rukia explain.
"Then why didn't you come back?" he asked. Why didn't you come back to me? Didn't you know I waited for you for years? Ichigo inwardly added.
"It was too late. We were already in UK. My brother wouldn't let me go back, especially after finding out my… situation."
Situation? You mean being pregnant? Ichigo wants to ask, but he let Rukia continue talking….
"You see, my brother is very protective.." you can say that again, thought Ichigo, "..he didn't want to tarnish the reputation of the family and he didn't want people to look down on me, so we stayed in London and lived there until last year."
'And you didn't even bothered contacting me. I have stayed in the same city hoping that you'll find your way back here, and even when you're back, you didn't even consider looking for me. You are so cruel Rukia. I am beginning to doubt if you have ever really loved me before.' He swallowed.
"Are you ever going to tell me what that situation was?" he insisted.
She looks at him and after few seconds "I told you I'm glad you had that bet right? Because if you didn't then I wouldn't have Kouichi." Rukia said, looking outside, he thought he saw a shadow of smile.
There! Confirmed! Kouichi is his! He's so happy, he didn't know what to do. He feels like jumping and shouting and wanting to hug her. But he controls himself.
Before he can say anything though.
Rukia asked "When's the wedding anyway?"
Huh? Oh right, he was engaged, is engaged. His talk with Orihime earlier was half done. Although, he not confirming his feelings for Rukia has put enough doubt in their relationship. Meeting Rukia again has put everything tentative. Why? Ichigo wonders.
"In five months." He replied.
"Do you want your house to be built before the wedding? We can build it in three months." Rukia said.
"Yeah, whatever."
After taking a few bite. Ichigo asks "When can I meet my son?"
"You can meet him tomorrow if you want. He's actually waiting for you." Rukia said, nonchalantly.
"Wha..what? He knows me?" Ichigo, amazed.
"Yes. I did not hide from him who his father is." Ichigo feels extremely relieved. Then he remembers the boys eyes widen when he saw him, did he recognized him that time?
"Does he know what I look like?" asked Ichigo.
Rukia's face shift to the window again. "Yes, he saw you last year."
"Then why didn't you approach me? I could have known my son then."
"You were busy proposing that time." Said Rukia, face still to the side.
What? Proposing? Oh, that's right, I proposed to Orihime last year at the hospital, but that was over a year ago. Rukia has known where he worked for over a year ago and she didn't even.. damn Midget, when will your cruelty going to end…
Ichigo greeted his teeth "After that then, why didn't you come and see me again?" Said Ichigo, heart already breaking.
"I didn't think you would appreciate. You look happy and about to start a family. We don't want to intrude. Kouichi understands it as well."
If they weren't inside a restaurant, he would have flipped the table already. "The hell! Rukia" he hissed. "This is my son we're talking about! He isn't just anybody else I could brush aside! You don't want to intrude? I can't believe you! Is that how lowly you think of me? Just because I'm starting a family, you thought I will not appreciate meeting my son?" said Ichigo incredulously. Hands both at the end of the table, gripping it tightly.
Rukia face him, eyes betraying nothing. "As I said, you look happy, I thought it might complicate your relationship and I wouldn't want that."
Ichigo laughed disbelievingly. This woman will really be the death of him.
"I want to see him now." Ichigo declared.
"You will have to wait until 5pm. He have school today." Said Rukia, sipping her drinks.
"Then I'll pick you up at five." Ichigo declared again, ending the conversation.
Ichigo went home, took a bath and dressed. He is anxious and at the same time excited. He is finally going to meet his son.
At quarter past four, Ichigo finds himself already at the parking lot where he will wait for Rukia.
Five minutes before 5pm, a limo parked. You are not escaping this time Rukia, Ichigo thought. He tapped the driver's window, and when it rolls down, he told him "Go back, I'm picking up Rukia." The driver just rolls up the window again and waited.
A few minutes more, Rukia came out from the building and headed to the Limo. Ichigo blocked her. "My car's over there." He pointed. Rukia rolled her eyes. The limo driver came out but Rukia told him to go back, and that she'll ride with Ichigo. Ichigo smirked.
As they were entering Rukia's house, Ichigo couldn't explains his feelings. What will he tell him? Will Kouichi accept him as his father?
"Wait here, Ichigo." Said Rukia. "He's on the way home.
After a little while, the door opens and came Kouichi running. "Mom!"
"In here, Kouichi." Rukia called from the kitchen.
Kouichi was about to go to the kitchen when he saw a man in their living room, standing. He widens his eyes again. So, he recognized me, Ichigo thought. Kouichi tentatively walks towards the living room and sat down.
Ichigo watched him, memorizing the boy's feature again then his eyes narrowed when he saw a small but visible bruise on the boy's cheek. "What happened to your cheek, Kouichi?" he asked and took a closer look.
Kouichi's eyes widen again, hand went to cover his cheek and whispered "Daddy, don't tell mommy or she'll baby me again. Don't tell uncle Byakuya either, I don't want my classmate's dad to get fired."
Ichigo was stunned. The boy called him 'daddy' already. He is so happy he couldn't contain his heart. But before that, he have to face the issue at hand, right, the bruise on his son's cheek. By the boy's tale, Byakuya's over protectiveness has extended to his son, if not doubly. But firing someone is a bit extreme in his opinion, but that's Byakuya, he can do whatever he wants, he thought bitterly.
"Did you get into a fight, Kouichi?" Ichigo softly asked his son.
Kouichi sheepishly nodded and then looked up indignantly "It's their fault daddy. They made fun of my hair, they said that my father was a foreigner and that he abandoned me, I told them you left because you have to study abroad, I told them you were very bright and that you are the very first doctor who developed the gene-based cancer therapy, that you are the youngest head doctor in the state hospital, that you have been awarded.." Kouichi said non-stop.
"Hold on, Kouichi, you got into a fight because of me? Also, how did you even know of those things?" asked Ichigo. Too many things currently running in his head.
"Mommy told me. Although uncle Byakuya said that you were a a.. ill-mannered delqent brat, but I don't know what that means." Ichigo's eye twitch, damn Byakuya.
"I have pictures of you daddy, come I'll show you." Kouichi grabbed his hand but Rukia who came out from the kitchen said "next time, Kou-chan, go and change your clothes, your snack is ready in the kitchen."
"Mom, don't call me that, I'm a big boy already. Can I have my snacks here with daddy?" asked Kouichi.
"Ok I'll bring it here. Go now and make sure you.."
"put my dirty clothes in the hamper.. yes mommy" called Kouichi, running.
They watched him run upstairs. After few seconds, Ichigo face Rukia. "Rukia, about the things Kouichi said…"
"I told you, he knows you. He knows he have grandpa and aunties as well, so don't be surprised if he ask to meet them." Rukia said nonchalantly.
Ichigo was floored. "but.. but.. so you have been following me? You knew I studied abroad? If you have been updated about my life, then why?" asked Ichigo.. So, she cares after all?
Rukia was silent.
"Rukia, why didn't you tell me about Kouichi? I need to know, dammit!" Ichigo is frustrated. If she has been following him then what is her reason for not approaching him?
Before Rukia can respond back, they heard the light step coming which only belong to Kouichi.
"Daddy look!" in Kouichi's arms nestled an album, newspaper clips and books. He drops them on the table and happily showed them one by one to Ichigo. They are the newspaper clips when he was featured, books where he was mentioned, and old pictures, even the recent ones.
"I told my classmates, you will come home soon and that I will show them that our hair is really orange." Then Kouichi scowled. "Why does our hair orange, daddy?"
Ichigo laughed and fondly told his son "Blame that to your grandma."
"But grandma is no longer with us," he said sadly, then look up "but I still have grampa and Auntie Karin and auntie Yuzu, right daddy?" Ichigo nearly cried. He feels he has love this boy for a long time already. He gathered him in his arms and hugs him tightly. He relish the feeling of having his son in his arms. When he release him the boy asked "Daddy, will you be staying with us now?"
"Kouichi, don't you have homeworks to do? Finished your food and take a bath." His mother said.
"But mom, I want to be with daddy some more." Kouichi wailed, then "Daddy do you want to see my room?"
Ichigo look at Rukia. She didn't say anything so he took that as a yes. "Okay, Show me your room, Kou-chan." Ichigo said grinning for which Kouichi replied "Daddy, not you too!"
Kouichi led his father to his room and he told him random stories about his mom, school, uncle Byakuya, even uncle Renji, who Ichigo find out has a big role in Kouichi's life. Apparently he is the one teaching his son martial arts. That needs to be rectified, Ichigo thought.
After an hour or so, Rukia walks in and told them its dinner time.
"Daddy, will you eat dinner with us?" asked Kouichi. Ichigo looks at Rukia again, but Rukia just continue going down. So he follows.
After dinner, they went back to his room again and talk some more until Rukia told them it's Kouichi's bed time. Ichigo bids him goodnight with a promise that he will never leave him again and that he will always be there for him now.
They went down but before he reach the door, Rukia spoke "Ichigo, I don't want you giving false hope to my son. We both know you can't always be there for him. Soon, you will have your own family, not to mention your line of work, sooner or later you will start to give excuses, so before we get to that…"
"Rukia" Ichigo stop her, "Isn't about time you stop deciding things for me? You have done enough of that already. I will be in Kouichi's life starting today. I will be the one to teach him how to defend himself and not Abarai, I will be the one to protect him and not Byakuya! I will be there every time he needs me and you don't have a say in this!" Ichigo all but declared. "Oh and from now on, all your opinions are rejected, you got that?" He emphasized.
"Fool! Are you forgetting you are about to get married? Do you think your wife is going to be happy sharing your time with us.. w..with Kouichi!?" Hissed Rukia, face flustered.
"About that, I think you should cancel the house plan. I will pay for the charges." Ichigo said.
"What? What are you saying?"
"I'm saying, I can't marry her now that you are back in my life, dammit! Whether you'll take me back or not it doesn't matter, I'm happy just being Kouichi's father." Ichigo looked to the side. He blushed realizing just how much he let on.
Yes, he still loves Rukia, so much that he knew he had never really stopped. He had wanted to bang his head when he realized that because even after everything that she had put him through, he couldn't bring himself to hate her, instead the first time he saw her he had wanted to hug her, make her his again and start making up for the lost time they were apart.
He should have known better, should have known that she alone have full control of his heart, whether to torture it more or nurture it, that he shouldn't have accepted Orihime's confession. He couldn't remember why he proposed though, was it because he had lost all hopes of finding Rukia again or maybe because his father has been demanding him grandchildren? Ichigo snorted, wish granted old man, has been granted for 8 years now. Regardless, proposing was surely a mistake on his part, Ichigo admitted. He hoped Orihime won't hate him too much.
"What are you saying?" Rukia asked again. Eyes wide.
Ichigo drew a breath, damage is done anyway, why not let it all out. "I'm so stupid for still feeling this but I still love you, alright! I still love you so damn much that I don't know what to do about it anymore."
"You must be thinking that I'm a fool for still wanting you, you who have left me behind, you who let me kept searching for you in vain, not even considered telling me you got pregnant, that I fathered an 8 year old boy. If I hadn't found out, would you ever tell me, Rukia? Did you ever really love me? Somehow I doubt it. I really am stupid." He turned around and walked away dejectedly.
Before his hand reach the door though, he felt two arms wraps around him, he look down and saw it was Rukia's arms, his eyes widen, his face shocked.
"I'm sorry, Ichigo." He heard her say. He tried to turn around but Rukia's arms tighten around him, her face pressed at his back, so he keep still.
"I'm sorry I did not believed in you. I'm sorry I left you and did not come back. I'm sorry I did not tell you about our son. I was afraid Ichigo, afraid that you will not accept him because I thought you didn't really love me, that I was just a game to you. But I realized soon enough that I still wanted you to know and I tried to contact you but I cannot reach you no matter what I do, only after few years I learned to know why" Said Rukia. Face still at his back. Ichigo laugh bitterly in that last sentence.
"When I heard about it, I decided I should let you be because I didn't want to ruin your life any further. I knew the extent my brother did to stop you from finding me. I knew you missed a year at school, your father almost lost his license, your sisters suffered too. I did not want you to suffer anymore, that's why I thought.. I thought that maybe with me gone from your life you will take back everything you have lost, that you will eventually forget about me and go on with your life. And I was right, wasn't I? You graduated with honors, excelled in your profession and found a lovely woman who will never abandon you." This time, Rukia released him.
He turn around and look down to her, although he is not convinced to her reasoning, there really was nothing that could be done about it anymore, at least he now heard her so-called reasons.
Why couldn't she think of herself first for once? Didn't she know that she is more important than anything or anyone else? No, she and Kouichi now. He would gladly choose a life of constantly battling with her family if it means he can be with her again.
But then, does he still have the chance to do that? What if she already has someone else? Is she married already? No, that couldn't be it. Their house have no sign that a man lives there, and he has not seen any picture except of Byakuya and Renji. He knows Renji is out of the question because his son informed him in one of his stories that Renji is married to an Auntie "Tatsuki." So he gulped and asked "What about you? Did you.. do you have someone now?"
Rukia raise her head and look to the side. "I don't have time to date, between my work, family obligations and Kouichi, my schedule is full as it is."
He's beyond glad to hear that. "But.. did you have before?" Ichigo wanted to know. Waiting impatiently for her answer.
"I told you, I didn't have time!" Rukia said, irritated. "I almost agree to an arranged marriage last year but.." she wasn't able to finish for she found herself engulf inside Ichigo's arms, hugging her tightly, feet barely touching the floor.
Ichigo couldn't contain himself, he was so happy, he feels his heart's going to burst. Rukia didn't get into any relationship. That's good, he was saved from hunting down every bastard that dared to touch her.
So, does that mean that she did loved him? Does she still love him then?
"Rukia, did you ever love me?" Ichigo said, still hugging Rukia. He have missed her so much that if Rukia allows him he would not let go of her for a week.
"Idiot. What do you think?" Rukia wriggled her arms so she can embrace him back.
"I want to hear it." Whispered Ichigo.
"I loved you Ichigo, still have." Rukia buried her face in his chest.
Ichigo smiled, his relief is palpable. He released her a little but only to lift her head, he look into her eyes, tears clinging to her eyelashes. This is the first time he has seen this expression, so unguarded, all emotions are showing freely. A far cry from that time she looked at him 8 years ago, at the hall. I will never make her look at me like that again, promised Ichigo.
He raised his hands and captured Rukia's face, he caress her cheeks, her nose, her lips.. and forgive him because he couldn't hold back anymore, he crashed his lips into hers. He is going to kiss her for 8 years' worth.
I have found back my almost lost Happiness..
-owari-
A/N. Crap! What have I done? Anyway, if you have reached here it means you tolerated to read my story. I salute you. Thank you. Please forgive the grammar mistakes, English not first language.
Thoughts, please?