Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 2: Marriage - Chapter 6
Lately you’ve been having a hard time focusing because…
“A mission for a week in the World of the Living?”
“Yes. The Head Captain had asked that I observe Kisuke’s progress with Danuja. It should not be longer than that.”
You have no doubt about that, and typically you’re not the clingy type. After all, you spent the majority of your life pretty much alone. Even with you father and sisters, everything was just..empty.
Byakuya isn’t oblivious to the troubled look you wear.
“I can have the mission assigned to someone else. “
You flinch.
“N-No you don’t have to. I-I’ll be fine. I’m not a kid, Taicho. I can survive a week on my own.”
You plastered the best smile you could, and he seemed to buy it.
But now, staring at this desk as you stack the files, that emptiness returns. It’s been so long since you felt like this. Even before you and Byakuya were together, just his presence was enough.
Maybe it was the fact that he always had high expectations for you. There was always a challenge, and he had faith that you could overcome it. You had a lot of responsibility, so your days were spent bettering yourself as a reaper.
You should be glad that you’ve reached to a point that you can not only stand at his side as a successful reaper, but as his partner.
Maybe that’s why the lack is so difficult.
It’s going to be a long week.
~Karakura Town~
“What’s up with him?” Jinta questions from the side.
Ururu shrugs and Kisuke laughs as Ichigo keeps his distance from the glaring captain.
They’re all in the underground training room. The current plan is to watch how far Danuja has gotten in his training. Usually there’s no problem, except Byakuya is about five feet away from the group, arms folded with a glare on his face as he stares ahead.
Danuja is too busy dodging hits from Sado, so he’s not keen on any of the conversations or the noble’s clear displeasure.
“Someone should talk to him.” Kisuke suggested.
He turns to ask for volunteers, but the space next to him is empty.
“Eh! So fast!!”
No one wanted to speak to an angry Byakuya.
Kisuke’s yell makes Byakuya turn, and now his glare is directed at the shopkeeper. Kisuke starts sweating profusely.
“I-I’ll go check on the tea!”
He makes a quick escape, and Byakuya looks back ahead.
“(Y/N)-san.”
He can’t seem to get that look you wore out of his head. He knows how self reliant you are. You’re not good and coming to him with your troubles. You’d rather try to figure it out on your own.
It’s not as if you don’t trust him, he suppose you’re just used to always having to deal with everything. You have been working under him for a few decades. Often taking Renji’s workload. It’s no surprise that you’re so headstrong.
Reliable.
Even though that’s the case, he wants you to lean on him.
It seems that might take a while.
For now he’ll just have to be patient.
~
“WAHH!! I WANT MY HUSBAND!!”
Rangiku, Hisagi and Izuru just laugh nervously. When she invited you for drinks, the expectation was that all of you would be having a good time, but the second you had a drink in you, well, you’d go on a rant about how great your husband is. Then how handsome he is. Now you’re crying for him to come back.
Rangiku just downs her drink, and the minute her cheeks flush, she’s at your side crying too.
“I WANT A HUSBAND!!”
Now you’re both wailing and both men just sigh heavily.
Safe to say the night had ended with both of them taking you and Rangiku to your respective squads. As you crawled into bed, you sniffed, clutching the pillow.
“Taicho..”
If you’d just been honest about how you were feeling, maybe you wouldn’t feel so lonely without him here. You hate that you’re being so emotional, you’re not some needy child, but it’s driving you crazy. You just want to hug him as soon as possible.
~
“Byakuya, what are you looking at?”
Ichigo’s question earned a cold look.
“How long do you intend to address me so casually, Kurosaki Ichigo.”
“A-Ah, gomen.”
He should be used to it by now.
Byakuya’s focus moved back to the display in the store. It was just a stuffed animal, yet his eyes had been trained on it so earnestly. What’s worse is that the women in the area seemed to be flocking around at the sight of the noble.
“Is he a model?”
“He must be!”
“So handsome!”
Ichigo frowned at the attention.
“I knew having him here would be a hassle.”
Trips typically turned out this way.
~Meanwhile in Byakuya’s head~”
“(Y/N)-san would like it if I were to get her that stuffed animal.”
He could just picture your reaction.
“Kya! It's so cute! You’re the best husband ever! Let’s have sex right now!”
The imagery was very pleasing to say the least.
Ichigo just sweatdropped at the now brightened atmosphere emitting from the noble.
This week sure was taking a long time to end.
~
“Taicho is supposed to come back today.”
You nod at Renji’s words. Despite how crazy you’ve been, you know you’ll at least be able to keep it together when he steps through the door.
So you go about your day happily. Filling up reports, tidying up his office. It’s enjoyable, because this time tomorrow, he’ll be right back there.
By the time you retire to your home, you feel fulfilled. Byakuya would have to report to the head captain before he came, so you’re expecting him in the night. You busy yourself, up until the point that you hear the front door open.
For a second, you’re frozen in place, but you feel it, the steady stream of his reiatsu. Before you can truly stop yourself, you’re sprinting to the door.
You skate to a stop, and the sight of him, all those feelings of loneliness hit you, and you can’t stop the tears.
They come rushing down your cheeks.
The second he steps inside, he searches for you.
All he does is lift his head, and you’re standing right before him.
Your tears startle him, and he’s about to question it, but your face is buried into his chest in a matter of seconds and he jests back slightly at the sudden collision. His hands raise in surprise, and you grip at his robes.
“(Y/N)-san are you-”
“I missed you so much!”
You cry.
You’re holding on so tight and his eyes soften as he returns the embrace.
“She was lonely.”
You’d looked so confident when he left, so he lectured himself not to worry. But it seems the both of you were battling the same issue.
He’d gotten so used to your voice being the first thing he heard in the morning that it felt almost unnatural not to have you right next to him when he woke.
“I missed you too, (Y/N)-san.”
His admittance has you drawing back, and one of his hands cups your cheek as he carefully wipes the tears away.
“Whenever we are away from each other, it is hard for me to focus.”
He’s always been honest about his words, and you can’t help but appreciate it. Leaning unto your toes, you pull him down for a kiss that he accepts happily, holding your close. The both of you stay joined like for who knows how long, exchanging desperate kisses.
You’re hopelessly in love with this man, and you wouldn’t have it any other way.
Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 2: Marriage - Chapter 5
~Takahashi Syndicate~
The Takahashi Syndicate was a well known crime organization. The large red gates were a line most people were smart never to cross. So given how many nobles lived in the region, it wasn’t even a surprise that they had kidnapped one.
They were notorious for trading members for money.
That’s why the man sitting unconscious in the chair at that open yard was no shock. They weren’t even being discrete, because other noble families were always keen to never get involved in the affairs of others.
“Hey, the old man’s finally awake.”
The kick to Rei’s chest had in fact jolted him awake. His body hit the ground with a thud, and the three men before him just laughed as he lay tied to the chair. He grunted, turning his head, unable to move a muscle to free himself.
“You think if you beat me this will change anything. Even if I die, my bloodline will carry on.” Rei spat.
The bigger man that stepped forward just grinned.
“That’s big talk. I wonder how much the other nobles in your family would trade to bring you back. You are the head after all. Always walking around with that snobby look on your face. Look at you now old man, pretty pathetic. “
Rei grunted, but said nothing. In terms of numbers, they were greatly depleted. People of a certain standard typically stayed within their perimeters, so he never saw the need for excessive guards.
Even so, these three men had taken down all twelve of the guards he did have assigned at the entrance of his manor before they made a grab for him. It was a poor way to make a statement, but he was weary.
It was true that the bloodline would continue, but if word of this got out, other crime syndicates would try to make attempts. The idea of anyone coming after his family was worrying.
“I’m surprised no one came to rescue you. I thought you have some soul reaper for a daughter, or did she abandon your crappy ass too?”
The larger man laughed and his friends did the same.
Rei could only lay down.
It was unrealistic to think that you would come for him. Even if you did, facing off three men on your own was almost suicidal. If they’d dropped his guards so easily, handling one woman would be child’s play.
“You’re misguided Keiji. This won’t change your status.”
“I guess we’ll have to see when we send back a finger to your family.”
Keiji continued to laugh.
“It’s cowardly to beat up on the elderly.”
The words made them all turn, and standing on the top of the gate was a woman. Keiji gritted his teeth, and the other two drew their blades. Rei’s eyes lifted in shock. It wasn’t just one woman, but a man was with her, standing proud.
“Reapers..”
Keji snarled.
The minute the pair of feet landed, Keiji recognized the face. The men looked on guard, but when Keiji started laughing, it became obvious there was no threat.
“Are you kidding me! (Y/N) Shikimori is actually a reaper!! I guess those guys really take anyone huh!!”
He was almost falling over with how much he was laughing, and when the other members of the syndicate started to walk outside of the building, Rei’s eyes widened in fear. The more men that stepped outside, the worse the situation seemed.
“W-What the hell are you doing reaper!! Are you really just going to stand there!!” Rei’s yells didn’t gain much of a reaction from Byakuya. He was just observing from above, and you turned to him with a grateful nod.
Now that the general space was filled with more than two dozen men, Keiji smiled.
“I guess they really don’t give a crap about the old man. That’s a shame.”
Various weapons were drawn from every member present, and Rei could only blink. He jolted when in a matter of seconds, he was being held by the back of his robe, now standing on the foundation of the wall, right next to Byakuya.
Everyone present seemed stunned, and you just smiled.
“Arigatou Taicho, that makes this a lot easier.”
You were laughing, and the faces of the men present looked pissed.
Rei was still trying to grasp what happened.
“He..he barely moved a muscle…”
Byakuya had freed his binds and pulled him from danger. Rei intended to suggest that he grab you and make a break for it, but by now you were completely surrounded.
“Hope you’re ready princess.”
Keiji charged at you, and when you drew back your fist and aimed your punch, you realized he expected nothing but a soft hit. The blow that connected with his stomach however had sent him barrelling into the building. His body pivoted backwards, shattering the bottom part of their building, the rubble echoing in the space.
All the men had stopped in place, gaping, and Rei did the same.
“Impossible…”
Byakuya said nothing, just looked down when he felt the rise in your reiatsu. All of them were struggling to stay upright, just from the sheer power of the energy, and when you drew your weapon, they were practically sweating bullets.
The blue glow that emitted from your body was enough. All it took was one swipe of your blade to the right and the wind that rose sent half the men flying in the opposite direction.
The ones that hadn’t been forced away by the gust of wind were now making a run for it, clearly realizing the obvious difference in power.
It took you about two minutes to take all of them down. At some point you’d managed to pull Keiji out of the debris, and he grunted, completely battered when you dropped his body down in the center.
You raised your sword, and his eyes trembled.
“P-Please spare my life!!!”
He was pleading, and when he saw the flash of your blade in the light, he flinched when you brought it down. He closed his eyes, anticipating a wound, or death, but after a few seconds, he opened his eyes and your zanpakuto was sheathed.
“If you threaten the Shikimori Clan or any family for that matter, I will come back, and there will be nothing left. Do you understand?”
“YES!! YES I UNDERSTAND!! WE’LL BECOME SAINTS! I PROMISE!!”
You stepped forward and he cowered against the floor as you jumped, joining Byakuya on the top of the gate.
Your eyes casted over your father. Aside from the bruise on his head, he didn’t seem to be hurt.
“You held back.”
Byakuya’s comment made you rub your head bashfully.
“I-I guess I did.”
You laughed awkwardly, and Rei could only gape.
“T-That was holding back…”
You’d practically destroyed that building and taken down the majority of the syndicate. He shuddered to think what you were capable of at full power. He didn’t have a chance to question it, because the three of you were moving again.
The speed was hard to get used to. He knew it should have taken longer. Travelling to the Squad barracks was usually a long trip, but it felt like you all had gotten there in ample time.
When Byakuya landed, he recognized the smaller house. It was one of the many they used when they traveled to different areas within the Sereitei.
There was another captain outside, and when the faces of his family came into view, Rei realized that you’d asked one of your friends to watch over you sisters while you left for the rescue.
They all came rushing in his direction.
“OTOU-SAMA!!”
Aio and Ai were overjoyed.
Byakuya merely tossed him, and his body hit the ground with a grunt. You sweatdropped and so did everyone else in the space at the harsh drop.
Byakuya hadn’t even apologized, and you wore a smile as Rei began picking himself off the ground. Shinji stepped over to your side with a grin.
“I feel bad for those criminals. Did they promise to become saints?”
Your eyes widened.
“Hai! H-How did you know Hirako-san?”
“Your abnormal strength tends to have that effect.” Shinji joked.
With a shy laugh, you just accepted it. Your eyes moved back to your sisters who were fussing over your dad. Their husbands looked equally as relieved.
To any other person, it would have been a loving family moment, but watching them just reminded you of all the love you’d never had. Both your sisters had done everything your father wanted. You were the screw up, the one who wasn’t gentle enough, beautiful enough, obedient enough.
Your eyes lowered to your feet, and you turned, unable to continue watching. You’d hoped that seeing him again would have proven that you no longer care, that you were over everything, but that was a lie.
“Let’s go.”
Byakuya didn’t need much more instruction.
Shinji casted a look back before he moved to follow you.
“Wait!!”
Aio’s voice made you stop.
“A-Arigatou, Onee-chan.”
All you could do was nod. Without another word, all three of you were gone.
Rei watched the empty space, regret in his eyes.
“She has your abilities, Emiko..”
He knows that he’s failed you, so the realization is a tough one to deal with, but he has to.
You both had been getting closer, that’s why you’d mentally prepared yourself for your first kiss. More than anything you were excited. That’s why you’d confided in the good old blog sites for some needed advice and possibly courage.
However, it seems you might have had the wrong idea, because the streams of messages were quite the opposite of what you were hoping for.
“Don’t be over eager, that will chase men away.”
“It’s smart to let it play out. If you act like you need it, you might look desperate. That’s the last thing you want.”
“It’s always best to hold out.”
“Don’t come off as some desperate girl.”
Each one felt like an accurate description of you, and your excitement changed to anxiousness.
“Am I acting desperate..”
You couldn’t tell. So you decided the next time you saw him, you would try your best to be neutral.
It seemed easy enough.
You felt a bit relieved when you saw him that morning heading to school. He hadn’t said much, just took your hand, and you melted, walking side by side.
You both had lunch with your friends, and by the end of the day he met you outside after you were finished with your classroom duties.
“Sorry it took so long.”
He shook his head.
“It’s no problem.”
He held out his hand, and you realized that it had become so natural, something that used to seem so far away was now as common as breathing. You took his hand happily. Smiling to yourself at the slight flush on his cheeks as he pushed up his glasses.
As collected as he often acted, things like this still made him bashful.
The walk home was nice, you almost didn’t want it to end. Now standing in front of your house, you smile.
“I might have to make a treat for you if you keep being such a great boyfriend Ishida-san.”
He was once again blushing, and you planned to tease him more, but he gave your hand a soft squeeze and it broke your focus. He seemed a bit more serious now, and when his eyes strayed to your lips and he took a step closer, you seemed to register his intentions. Each movement was slow. You breath hitched when the space between the both of you began to lessen.
He was now leaning in and your heart was hammering.
“Don’t be over eager, that will chase men away.”
Those words made you flinch, and you stepped back. Ishida looked taken aback and you just lowered your head.
“I-I need to get going. I promised to help get started on dinner with my mom. I’ll see you tomorrow Ishida-san.”
You practically raced into your house, and Ishida stood there, now wondering if he’d done something wrong.
The very next day you could only plant a smile on your face. You tried to get rid of it, that look he wore when you basically ran away from him. You desperately wanted to make up for it without actually acknowledging the incident.
“Make me dinner?”
“Yes! I asked my parents to spend the night if you don’t mind. I can also cook you dinner.”
You were wearing a big smile, determined to act like nothing was wrong. You hoped he couldn’t see through it, and apparently it worked, because he agreed. The day went by, and the walk home, you were sure to smile and act like it wasn’t painful, having to constantly restrain yourself.
By the time you both made it to his place, you felt a bit exhausted. Like you were acting, the very same way you had been before you both got together. You hate the fact that you were letting those stupid blogs hinder you, but it was hard to ignore.
“I should probably get started on dinner.”
You intended to do that. Maybe it would provide a good distraction.
“You’ve been acting strange all day.”
You’d almost reacted to his words, but you schooled your features.
You smile, rubbing your arm.
“I think you’re imagining things Ishida-san.”
“I’m not.”
His stance on the matter is unmoving and you lower your gaze.
You hate that it feels like you always cause him trouble due to your own anxieties. Ishida was standing and you remained planted in your place.
His gaze became somewhat sullen.
“Are you that unnerved at the idea of me getting closer to you..”
His words held a bit of hurt and you lifted your head, startled that he would say such a thing.
“Yesterday when I tried to kiss you, you..you pulled away.”
You can’t believe you’ve been so thoughtless. You were so sure that if you acted to rash it would have a negative consequence, now it’s clear that you went about the whole thing wrong.
Taking in a heavy breath, you clench your eyes shut.
“I-I want to kiss you!!”
The declaration caught him by surprise.
“I want to hug you all the time, I want to cuddle and kiss and and want you to kiss me a-as much as you want b-but I was scared. I thought that if I was overly eager it would scare you away. I know it takes a while to get used to me and I just didn’t want to jeopardize what we have..”
You ended up dropping onto the couch, probably looking pathetic.
You sniffled and Ishida’s eyes softened. With a low sigh, he took a seat right next to you.
“I apologize. I should have been more forthcoming. I was under the impression that my advance made you uncomfortable. So rather than address it I chose to ignore it because I was also afraid that I would..ruin this relationship..”
You can barely believe it, the both of you have been struggling with the same problem, yet you both were too cowardly to speak about it.
Ishida turns to you, and the warmth you feel from his gaze is amazing.
“Can we..start over..”
His voice is nothing but a whisper, and the hope in his eyes feels like too much. You swallow when his eyes move to your lips.
You nod slowly, and Ishida gulps, licking his lips.
“I’m glad..”
He sounds distracted, and you can’t take it anymore. You lean in, eyes shut as you press your lips to his. The action has caught him by surprise, but it takes maybe a second before he cups your cheeks and returns the kiss happily. Your cheeks are the definition of a cherry, and his touch is so gentle, so amazing.
You barely process much other than how good it feels to be this close to him. You release a soft sound when your back hits the couch. Ishida is hovering over you. One hand pressed to the back of the couch and the other at the side of you. His glasses glint in a way that makes you press your thighs together in anticipation.
“I’ve wanted to kiss you for so long (Y/N)-san..”
The honest confession is like an arrow to your heart. Ishida is usually so serious and composed, yet in this moment, you can read everything on his face, and it makes you excited. He lowers, and this time when he kisses you, it’s deeper than the last.
Your brows knit, because his body is pressed so closely to your own, and he’s comfortably between your parted legs. Your hands reach out shakily, gripping at the back of his shirt, and you moan when his tongue slips through your parted lips. Your fists tighten, body quivering.
This is far more heated than you anticipated. You always heard that kisses with a lover were warm, subtle, like butterflies fluttering around. Your first kiss with him meets that very description, but this kiss, well there’s nothing subtle about it.
“S-So hot..”
That’s how your body feels. You’re almost convinced that you’ll combust. When he parts for a moment, you can hear his heavy breaths, and your dazed expression must be obvious, because he sends you another one of those smiles that’s loving, but also teasing. Your blush darkens and you cover your face.
“D-Don’t look at me!!”
Ishida chuckles.
“There’s no need to be embarrassed. I apologize, maybe I should have held back a little.”
You move your hands slowly, and he brushes the back of his palm along your cheek.
“You’re so beautiful, (Y/N)-san.”
He says it almost wistfully, and your lips tremble as you bury your face into his chest. He welcomes the touch, satisfied.
Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 2: Marriage - Chapter 4
Life has settled in back very nicely.
Ichigo drops by every now and then, so it’s a welcomed visit. Today however, you’re not on your way to see Ichigo.
Yamamoto has asked that you attend the captain’s meeting.
“If he’s requesting me personally, it must be serious.”
You’re a bit worried.
“Does it have something to do with Danuja…”
It’s been months, almost a year if you’re correct. The longer you ponder on it, the deeper the pit in your stomach gets. By the time you make it to those doors and step inside, all eyes turn to you. Each step feels a bit heavy, but you hold your head high.
“Head Captain.”
Bowing, you raise, ready to hear whatever he has to say.
“We’ve received news. A noble has been taken.” He explained.
Your brows furrow.
“A noble?”
He looks to the side, and when you see the two women, it dawns on you.
“Aio, Ai…”
You haven’t spoken to them in almost three hundred years. The panic they express makes you backtrack.
“I-It’s Otou-san!! He’s been taken by those criminals. The Takahashi syndicate. Y-You have to help!!” Aio begs.
Your eyes drift when you see two other men standing behind them with equally worried expressions. If you’d had to guess, you would say those were their husbands. The reality of the situation is sobering.
“We have decided not to intervene. After the situation in the Seireitei, the Gotei 13 has cut off all ties with the Shikimori Clan.”
Yamamoto’s words make both your sisters flinch.
“However, if you were to pursue the rescue of your father, I would not stop you.” Yamamoto explains.
Suddenly it makes sense. In a lot of ways, you’re very grateful for his sincerity given the situation. He could have just as easily forbid you from even attempting it. Your father’s actions were unforgivable. It was a miracle there weren’t any casualties.
When the men standing behind step forward, your gaze shifts.
“Kenji Kugo, I am Aoi’s husband.” The first one bows.
“Yuta Hayashi, I am Ai’s husband.”
He follows the first, and when your sisters bow, you flinch.
“Please, save Otou-sama!”
They all plead.
You can see the expectant look on everyone's face in the room. You suppose the answer to this request would be easy.
“I refuse.”
The shock is almost instant. Even some of the captain’s seem taken aback. When they all straighten, you see the fear, but your expression is neutral.
“That man is not my father, he never was. Blood, this blood, it means nothing to me. My family died with Emiko Shikimori.”
Nothing more is said, and when you turn your back, you can hear the stagger in their voices. But you don’t care.
“Very well. There is nothing more we can do. Please return to your residence.”
Yamamoto’s words are final, and you know that they probably want to say more, but given how much damage your father has already done, you know that they aren’t keen on causing any more trouble. You don’t turn around, not until you hear their steps leave the room.
“This meeting is dismissed.”
The members disperse.
Your walk back with Byakuya is quiet. You’ve been a few steps ahead the entire time.
“Is there something you’d like to say?” You ask.
“Is there something that you must tell me.” He counters.
You stop in place, and he does the same.
“That man, he was never my father. He’s never shown me an ounce of love. Then he tried to rip the only family I ever really had away from me. I owe him nothing.”
“If that is how you feel, then it is not my place to disagree.”
“It is how I feel!”
“Then I respect your wishes. You are my wife.”
“H-He was cruel!! I-I was just a kid!!”
“I understand.”
Your lips quiver, and when he sees the droplets that patter at your feet, Byakuya says nothing.
“She has kept this inside for years. The same way I had, with Rukia.”
He needs to offer you this chance to get it all off your chest. You deserve the same chance he had to make things right with his family.
“I-I hate him so why…why does the thought of anything happening..h-hurt so much…”
Your hands are trembling and Byakuya steps forward, reaching out as he pulls you into his chest. The sudden move catches you off guard. He just holds you close, hand at the back of your head as he comforts you.
“Because he is your blood, and you are not your father.”
Such a simple statement.
With shaky hands, you reach up, grabbing at his robes as you cry into his chest. Byakuya says nothing, just holds you close.
When you asked to meet his father, he wasn’t surprised.
After all, he’d met your family. It felt necessary for the both of you to become familiar with the other’s parents.
Especially since your feelings were so strong.
He had to admit he was a bit anxious. His father wasn’t an easy man to speak with, and the last thing he wanted was for you to be intimidated. When he looked over at you, you seemed more excited than anxious, so he felt a bit of his nerves ease.
You looked like you had something on your mind.
Now standing in front of Ryuken Ishida, you took a step forward and he decided to let you speak your mind, introduce yourself.
“I..”
You swallowed.
“I WOULD LIKE TO ASK FOR YOU SON’S HAND IN MARRIAGE SIR!!”
The declaration made Ishida gape. You were down on one knee and everything.
“W-What!!”
Ryuken was silent for a moment, then he pushed up his glasses.
“Hmph. Very well. I respect you being so forthcoming about your intentions with my son. I give you my blessings.”
“What do you mean you give her your blessings!! A-Are you kidding me!”
You were sparkling and Ryuken moved to your side, placing a hand on your shoulder.
“You seem like a strong person, please look out for him.”
You saluted.
“Yes sir!! I will protect him with my life!!”
“I don’t need protection!!”
The entire encounter left him exhausted. He couldn’t believe his father had just gone along with it too. Out of everyone, he expected him to at least be level minded.
“This is unbelievable.”
You were grinning.
“I see this as a win, he approves of us. Don’t worry about anything, I’ve got the wedding handled.” You winked.
“That’s not my biggest worry!!”
You just giggle and Ishida pinches the bridge of his nose with a sigh.
It wasn’t the proposal that caught him by surprise, but the way it felt as though you’d taken the lead in every way.
“I’d like to be more assertive, but she’s so capable already. I feel as though I’m fighting to keep up.”
He’d never had such a worry before. When he looked over, the smile on your face made his shoulders drop. You looked so content, so happy and it made his heart warm.
“I was scared that if you found out the real me, you’d hate it. Hate me..”
That’s right.
Ishida sighed for his own idiocy.
“I’m getting worked up over such trivial things.”
It didn’t matter what the roles were, what was important is how you both felt. It took a lot for you to confess to him your insecurities, especially given what you’d told him. Maybe he was just used to being the one who would step up, look out for others.
“Ichigo is rubbing off on me.”
His need to protect was incurable at this point.
Ishida chuckled and you looked over curiously.
“Hmmm?”
He said nothing, just gave you a smile and you blushed, both at the warm expression, and the way he’d reached out and gently took your hand.
“I suppose if you insist on paying for the wedding, I’ll have to cover the honeymoon.”
Steam was pouring out of your ears at his bold words and you just shuffled to his side, holding on his upper arm.
“H-Hai..”
He laughed softly, giving your hand a soft squeeze as you both walked down the street.
He wasn’t sure how you could ever think that you were anything other than cute. Especially when you were taking charge.
The second you step into his apartment, his scent seems to be everywhere. Not that you’re surprised. He takes your coat with a smile.
“Make yourself comfortable, I’m going to check on the pasta.”
You nod, folding your cane as you slowly venture forward.
Your fingers drift over the wallpaper as you make your way to the kitchen. You can hear Jubal moving around somewhat frantically and when he notices you he smiles.
“I hope you’re hungry.”
“Absolutely famished.”
It takes him a few more minutes to get everything set. The meal you share is nice and the conversation is even better. After he very adorably boasts about his cooking, you both find yourself on the couch, going back and forth about various topics.
Jubal is talking about his kids, describing them, and the topic of family seems to bring you a melancholy feeling. Maybe he notices. You feel the shift in his posture against the couch. You know he’s curious. You don’t talk about your life much, but he knows you lost your father.
You’d mentioned Stick only once before around him.
“It’s okay Jubal, you can ask me.”
There’s still a bit of hesitance on his part, but he finally seems to get the words together.
“Before, you spoke about someone named Stick. Was he your foster parent?”
You almost laugh at that.
Parent would not be a word you’d use to describe Stick.
“Stick was my mentor. I was a kid when I lost my dad. When he started training me I thought it was because he cared, but he just wanted a soldier. He’s one of those vigilante types.”
Now Jubal understands.
“I wasn’t comfortable being a mindless soldier and he didn’t want some clingy orphan, so I left. The guy was a jerk, but at least he taught me how to look after myself. “
You brush your hand over your wrist.
Jubal feels a bit guilty now.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories.”
You just smile, because you understand. He just wants to know more. Jubal has been vulnerable around you in the past, so it’s only fair that you offer the same.
“It’s okay. It’s nice to talk about it sometimes. Foggy is really the only other person I’ve confided in about this.”
“I’m glad I’ve been added to that list.”
You are too.
The air seems a bit lighter and when he reaches over and takes your hand, you lift your head.
“I have to admit I was surprised you agreed to have dinner with me.” He expresses.
“Really?”
“Really.”
He nods with a laugh.
Now you feel as though you need to be a bit more transparent.
“If I’m being honest, I’ve been interested for a while now.”
You’ve known Jubal for about two years. Foggy knew the second you started talking about the guy that you were smitten and it had only taken OA a few meetings to figure it out.
Now Jubal seems intrigued.
“You never said anything.”
You just rub your arm.
“I don’t exactly have the best track record when it comes to relationships.”
Frank Castle could attest to that. As well as Elric Natchios.
“My disability tends to make people weary and when they find out about my abilities, well it’s intimidating. It’s hard finding a balance. Most guys are either anxious because they think I'm defenseless or too capable.”
“What about you?”
The question isn’t what you expect and his thumb runs over your knuckle.
“How do you see yourself?”
He elaborates.
“I..”
That’s a bit of a complicated question. One you’ve never really considered before. No one has ever really asked you this.
“I guess I’d have to say that I’m strong.”
You laugh, because it’s both accurate and ironic.
“Resilient, driven, kind, beautiful..”
The words he speaks makes you flush.
“Those are just the ones off the top of my head.”
He says with a grin.
If you weren’t already enamored with the guy before, you sure are now. You move a bit closer, and Jubal smiles when you slowly begin to lean in. He mimics the action, palm laying gently on your cheek as he kisses you softly.
The tenderness of his touch and the carefulness of each action makes you so warm. Sometimes you forget that you don’t always have to be strong. Times like this you’re reminded of a fragility that you seem to crave.
Jubal takes special care with you, and not in a manner that makes you feel deficient in any way.
Pretty soon those careful kisses become a bit more insistent, and you climb into his lap, brows knitted as your hands run down his chest. You’re the one who pulls back to catch your breath. Jubal’s heart race has picked up, and so has yours.
One thing you’re sure of, you’re happy he asked you out for dinner.
You nodded, walking past the front desk as you headed straight for your office. The second you were inside you dropped your items on the couch as you sighed heavily.
Closing your eyes, you tried to get a grip.
“The man that let you go is a fool. I won’t make that mistake.”
Those words had been whispered as he thrusted into you from behind. With a shuddering breath, you shook your head, trying to clear your mind.
“It was a mistake, that was a mistake.”
After the many waves of pleasure had passed, you woke the next morning and snuck out of there. You were almost relieved when your things were on the table in his hotel. You were positive that neither of you had grabbed it, so room service must have brought it in at some point.
No matter how hard you tried you couldn’t seem to forget any of it. It was useless. The only reprieve you have is the fact that you’ll probably never see him again.
The knock on your door was a good distraction, your coworker walking inside. From the looks of it she had something juicy to tell you.
“Just a heads up, I heard we’re getting new management. Some big shot just bought the paper.”
As long as your job stayed intact you didn’t care which rich guy bought it.
The press company you work for is popular, so it’s not that unexpected.
“Word is he’s an uptight celibit.”
You raised a brow and your co-worker laughed.
“I’m serious. His name is James Wesley. All the guy does is work and make millions apparently.”
The look she wears shows that she’s gonna dig deeper.
You just sip your coffee.
“I’ll be working on my article if you need anything. Don’t let Andy catch you gossiping.” You poke. She giggled.
“No promises!”
She called scurrying off.
At least you have entertainment to keep your mind off your troubles for a while.
The rest of your morning was a bit laid back.
When you were all called in to meet the new owner, you couldn’t deny that you were intrigued. According to your boss, he was busy, so he would only have time to meet with a few of the higher publishers.
You knew your name would be on that list, so you were comfortably completing your latest article as you resided in your office contemplating your night of questionable choices.
The knock broke that train of thought.
“Come in.”
You didn’t look up, not until the door closed. Your supervisor was standing there with a smile on his face and your body went stiff at the man next to him. That very same stare as last night was directed at you. Yet you can see hints of surprise written on his face.
You had about five seconds to school your features and get your shit together.
You stood, moving to offer as much professionalism as you could muster given the circumstances. You stayed close to your desk, a bit afraid to get too close.
“This is (Y/N) Castle. Our last stop. If you need anything else please let me know Mr. Wesley.”
He nodded at your boss who excused himself with a look that said put your game face on. The door shutting felt like a cold shower. Of course out of all the men in this damn city you could have had a one night stand with, it had to be some rich entrepreneur.
“I..”
Words wouldn’t form. He didn’t really say anything either, just stood there, watching you like he’d done that night, almost like he could read everything. Your thoughts, panic. He pushed up his glasses, finally moving over. The closer he got the faster your heart rate went.
He stopped when he was right in front of you, and when he gently touched your cheek, you could feel yourself almost leaning into it.
“I thought it was the alcohol, but you really don’t know who I am?”
His thumb brushes your lower lip and you swallow. In all honesty, you have no idea who this man is. You’re not some oblivious fool, after all you’re paid to have answers to questions, but you couldn’t place his face at all and you’d only learned his name this morning.
“I-”
He kissed you and you squeaked when he pushed you against the desk. Your hands dropped onto the surface, shocked, panicked, aroused…
The last thing you should be doing is this. It’s clear that he’s an influential man. Everything about him screams danger, and now learning that he’s some freaking billionaire, you should be running in the opposite direction, but every brush of his lips makes you want to melt.
The delicate touch against your back has you submitting, and when he finally pulls away, you let out a staggered breath. Your eyes are closed, and his lips move to your cheek, then down to your jaw, against your neck.
Your hands grab at his suit.
“W-We can’t be doing this you’re..”
He’s..
“Y-You’re the boss I-”
He nips at your ear and your mind is gone. You really should have educated yourself on who the hell this man was, maybe if you’d recognized him the first time around he would have lost interest and you wouldn’t be fighting between your mind and your body right now.
You have enough on your plate. Messing around with this guy is going to ruin you. You're not sure you can handle another heartbreak right now. You whimper, lightly pressing against his chest
“P-Please..”
You expect resistance, but he moves back almost immediately at the plea and when he sees the conflict on your face, his hands move off your body.
“I apologize.”
It takes a few seconds for him to get back into that professional persona and you’re still trying to gather yourself, thankful for the support of the desk.
This time you can’t blame the alcohol for any bad decisions.
You’re a journalist for goodness sake. This entire situation is like every newspaper front cover you’d ever read.
“If..If this ever got out it would be messy.”
“So you don’t want me.”
You can’t believe he would even ask such a ridiculous question. You’ve already established that sex with this man is absolutely mind blowing. Add the status and his nerdy/secret undercover criminal energy, you’d be an idiot to say that you aren’t interested.
But as it stands you need to figure out the situation with your lease, sort out the fallout of your break up and complete your article piece before the end of the week.
You have more than enough on your plate. Adding more to that would be a mistake, especially since everything about this man feels so dangerously mysterious.
“I can’t want you. I can’t want this. I know I’m some kind of experiment for you. You’re some pent up stick in the mud and you’re looking for a high. I’m..I have my own shit to deal with and I can’t risk losing this job.”
It’s the only thing keeping you afloat right now. Both mentally and literally.
“You never answered my question.”
Your look of disbelief must be amusing.
He takes a step forward.
“Do you want me?”
This time it’s said much lower and you clench your fist. Maybe if you’re honest it’ll make breaking this all off easier.
“I want you.”
You confess.
“I want you so much I’m going crazy! All I’ve been able to think about today is last night. I feel like I'm going to lose my mind..”
You look a bit desperate.
“So you’re right, I want you, but I need this job.”
“Understood.”
Your brows furrow.
“What does that mean? Understood.”
“I won’t approach you again. This is your decision. You want me, that’s all I need to know.”
For a moment you think he’s joking, but he says nothing more, straightening his jacket as he walks out.
You weren’t ignorant. Your job had been a bit of a default because of your ‘gift’. In actuality it felt necessary.
You should have been glad that most people just thought you were weird. You’d gotten better at managing.
So, at the very least your superiors didn’t think you were crazy. You suppose having a gypsy aunt helped to solidify the story, because some of the people you worked with just made distasteful jokes every now and then.
“Still talking to dead people Gordon.”
The snide comment from a cop was something you were used to.
“Good one, still cheating on your wife with your personal trainer?”
That’s what you wanted to say, but of course the question would arise on how you found out and you weren’t interested in answering those questions. So you forced a smile on your face walking past him as you headed to see Sophia. She asked that you drop off the evidence you found.
Maybe that wasn’t the only reason you were there.
You opened the door, putting the items down on her desk. The bold letters written on the top of the note ensured that she would see it as soon as she came in.
“Thank you.”
You lifted your head, offering a smile at the woman standing in front of you, the subtle white glow of her body was indication enough of her passing.
No matter how many times you did this it never got easy.
Guiding spirits.
“They have everything they need to catch your killer.”
You stated after you’d tucked the extra documents under the folder.
She wore a weak smile, turning to the door, staring out the blinds at the many bodies rushing through the halls of the precinct.
“How do you do this job? It’s hard enough alone, but with all that you see, how can you show up everyday with all that you know?”
That was the million dollar question.
“Because I made a promise to my dad, and I’ve never broken a promise.”
Regardless of what people thought, you had a job to do at the end of the day. Your gaze shifted when her body seemed to shimmer. Your expression fell slightly at the realization. They only ever really passed on when peace was given.
She seemed to realize the same, because she turned behind her, staring in awe at something.
“Wow..”
She was laughing despite the tears in her eyes. You’ve never been able to see past that veil, but you knew that whatever was waiting for her, it was amazing.
She gave you one last look.
“Thank you for everything.”
You simply nod and just like that, she turns, stepping forward. In a blink she’s gone and you exhale softly. Her death had been brutal and like most cases it was painful, even more so that you’d been with her when her family came to claim the body.
A tear escaped your eye, despite your best efforts to stop it. You suppose it was naive to think that you’d get better at handling the emotional aspect of your gift. You’d been so distracted that you didn’t hear the door open.
“Can I help you?”
You blinked and there stood Captain Brass. He looked concerned. Quickly wiping your face, shaking your head.
“N-No. I was just dropping some documents off for Sophia’s case. If you’ll excuse me.”
You maneuvered around him, head bent as you paced out of the door.
That was typically how your life went. Being a CSI at Las Vegas Crime Lab was not so much your calling, but your duty.
Each day you went in you put your all into every case. You tried to give a voice to the people that couldn’t speak for themselves. An analogy that Grissom used once that seemed to fit perfectly.
Some days were tougher than others.
Like tonight.
You were handling a different case that led you to the hospital to follow up with a doctor about a surviving witness. Your eyes were deep in your folder when your phone started going off. With furrowed brows you slid it out of your pocket to check. The only thing that stopped you was the pair of feet before you.
Clearly the person had stopped because you were about to run into them. With your phone in hand you lift your head to apologize, shocked to see Brass standing before you. He looked equally stunned. It wasn’t his presence that startled you, but the very noticeably golden glow his body was giving off.
“You can see me..”
He sounded astonished, and you swallowed.
You didn’t want it to be real, but when you finally opened the message on your pager, it confirmed what you were seeing.
Captain Jim Brass was shot.
“(Y/N).”
Grissom’s call made you look up. He moved to your side and you were doing your best not to look directly at Brass, because at the moment you were the only one who could see him.
“I-I heard what happened and I came to see. How is he?”
It was a blatant lie.
The only one you could make up at the moment. Just by looking you could see the pain in Grissom’s eyes.
“He’s in surgery.”
Surgery.
Maybe that would help explain the current predicament.
“Am I dead?” Brass asked.
You mentally shook off the words, keeping your focus on Grissom.
“I know you can hear me, just shoot straight with me, I’m dead.”
“The doctors haven’t told me much.”
You expect as much, glancing in Brass’s direction, you weren’t oblivious to the way he looked at you, as if assessing.
“I guess the rumors were true after all. What a way to find out you weren’t just the niece of an overzealous con artist.”
At least his sense of humor hadn’t left.
Grissom looks curious, and that’s when you realize that you’ve been staring at that blank space for way too long.
“I have to get back to the lab. I’ll be back. Thank you Grissom.”
He nods, and you rush off shortly after.
Your plan had been to zoom home and figure out a plan of action. That’s why you’d pretty much sprinted to your car. It took a while to get home. Safe to say when you got to the door you did not expect a certain police captain to be standing in your living room.
“Good to see you too. So you can see me.”
You couldn’t fathom it, this was a first. He shouldn’t have been able to leave the hospital. Not on his own at least..
You expected him to have a different expression, but Brass looked pretty laid back given his situation.
“I guess it was only a matter of time huh. I thought I’d bite the bullet at my desk with a nice glass of whiskey.”
“You’re not dead.”
He paused, and you ran a hand through your hair. It wasn’t just one thing that didn’t make sense, it was everything. Now that you’re in this position, the only thing you can do is explain it as best you can.
“Usually spirits can’t roam freely unless I have a possession, something they treasured. Something tangible. I don’t have any of your belongings yet you walked right out of the hospital and your body is..”
Your words pause for a moment.
“Your body is glowing golden, not white. I don’t think you're dead. I think somehow you’re trapped between here and-”
“The afterlife?”
You nod, taking a seat on your couch. Brass is still standing there looking official and you’re no closer to figuring this out.
“I’ve never dealt with this situation before.”
You reply honestly.
For once, you’re not sure what to do. You might have to request the rest of the day off in hopes that you could find some solution. Even if you solve that, you’re still a bit lost and frustrated, because now you’re torn.
If he’s trapped then how do you determine which path he needs to take? Do you convince him to figure out a way to fight, get back here, or do you help him pass over? This is the first time you feel overwhelmed because you’re not sure what to do, you’re not sure how to help.
You place your hands over your face, letting out a sound of defeat.
“Chin up, at least you didn’t get shot.”
Your head whips to the side and you glare at him.
If the stress doesn’t kill you his humor surely will.
Ultimately you’d cashed in on some of your sick days. Given the circumstances, Ecklie hadn’t even truly questioned it. Your plan was to go through some books and see if you could find some lead to this problem.
The first day you called your aunt but she hadn’t been much help.
“What is to be, will be.”
She said it with a cheerful tone that almost made you want to jump right out a window.
You’re back to square one and you still know very little about Brass’s status at the hospital. Officers had been taking shifts. You were contemplating steering clear of the place because whenever you went over there you’d get into stupid arguments with Brass.
Like now.
“So you’re not very good at this huh.”
You squeezed the canned drink in your hand, lifting your head as you looked down the hall with a frown.
You weren’t trying to lose your job on top of all of it for yelling at someone who wasn’t there but he was really testing you.
“Just be quiet. “ You grumble.
He laughs.
“Looks like I hit a nerve. Since you’re the only one who can see me I’m sure you realize I’m going to be around for a while. Better get used to it.”
You really hope he would just step into the light right about now.
“You just prayed for me to step into the light didn’t you.”
“No.”
You don’t look at him and he just wears a smug little look.
Maybe tomorrow will be better.
~The Very Next Morning That Was Indeed Not Much Better~
“Good morning.”
You screamed and Brass just grinned.
His sudden appearance almost made you drop your cup.
“Sorry, I couldn't help myself.”
You had half a mind to throw your mug at him, but you figured he was already having a rough time. Placing your hands on the counter you mumbled under your breath.
“So any leads on helping me pass over.”
You turned to him slowly, eyes holding hesitance.
“You seem a bit eager to pass on.”
“Well, I’m not getting any deader, am I sweetheart?”
“You’re not dead.”
You mutter, picking your mug off the counter as you place it back in your cupboard.
You weren’t in the mood for coffee anymore.
“I appreciate the wishful thinking but it’s been days. I’m not exactly expecting a miracle. I already killed the guy that shot me, so what’s keeping me here? Aren’t you the ghost whisperer? Hurry up and work your gypsy magic.”
“Has anyone ever told you you’re annoyingly pushy?”
“I’d like to think of it as persistent or passionate.”
You snort, rolling your eyes.
As irritating as he’s being, he’s right. You’ve passed on more than a hundred spirits already. It should be easy, yet nothing about this situation is easy.
“By the way, nice shorts.”
You blink, looking down, face heating when you realize that you are practically wearing booty shorts.
In your defense it was six in the morning and you weren’t exactly expecting company.
“S-Shut up!!”
Brass just laughed as you scurried away.
Your time with Brass was nothing if not enlightening. You’d hoped you could get him where he needed to be, if nothing but the fact that he would no longer be roaming around your place.
Honestly you thought he’d be a bit more crass, but it took you about a week to realize that he never really ventured past your living room and kitchen. Given his abilities he could come and go as he pleased.
One night you’d stepped into the living room to check on him and he was just standing at the window, looking at the raindrops hitting the glass.
“It’s a little weird. I usually hate the rain, but it’s a bit relaxing right now.”
You suppose you could understand why.
“Grissom said your daughter stopped by.”
He just let out a dry chuckle.
“I’ll believe it when I see it.”
You couldn’t really blame him for being a skeptic.
“Brass, I never asked you, but do you want to-”
“You should get some sleep.”
His need to change the subject seemed to give you a bit of clarity. He moved to place a hand on your shoulder to give you a friendly tap, but you shrugged it off and he stopped.
“Why the hell am I wasting my time if you’re not going to try and fight.”
“I thought that’s what I was doing?”
“No it’s not. Since you've been here you haven’t once asked me to help you get back.”
He looks as though he’s been caught and that confirms everything. From the start it felt like he accepted it. The ridiculous jokes, acceptance, you probably should have seen through it sooner.
“Aren’t you supposed to help me, even if the outcome isn’t something that you want.”
You feel a bit attacked, because that strikes a nerve. In a way he’s right. In a lot of ways, this is similar to a DNR. On a spiritual level rather than a legal one. If he decided that he was done fighting then you should respect that yet…
Some part of you can’t seem to let go.
“I-I don’t care what you say! I’m getting you back here and that’s final! You have no say in this!!!”
You storm off, chest puffed and when Brass hears your bedroom door slam he actually smiles.
The following morning you feel a bit ridden with guilt, but you refuse to fold, so you just offer a hand for him. He’s confused when he sees you holding your hand out.
“Truce.”
You’re not really looking at him and he wants to laugh, but he just chuckles, taking your hand.
“Truce.”
As agitating as he was at times, you couldn’t deny that the short time with him, you’d grown a bit fond of him. You’ve known him for a few years and your encounters had been far and few between.
Grissom’s team typically worked directly with him, so you’d have run-ins every couple months. Back then you regarded him no different than the cops at his precinct.
But now it feels different.
“So how long have you been able to see all of this?”
It was a question he’d brought up one evening. With the litter of books in your lap about faith and passing over, you looked up. It’s not strange for him to be curious. To be honest he’s the first to ask.
“Ever since I was seven.”
Your eyes are back in the book, still working your angle.
“So you saw him, your old man.”
You stop altogether and maybe he feels as though he’s overstepped, because he looks like he’s waiting for you to tell him to piss off.
“I did.”
He’s the reason you’re doing this.
“Promise me you won’t hide from it, you’ll use this gift to help people.”
“I-I promise dad, I promise!!”
All he’d offered was a smile, and that was the very first time you’d passed a spirit over.
“At the time I was young, so everyone thought I was just dealing with loss. I guess being a kid works in your favor for certain situations. No one believed I actually saw him and everyone around kept telling my mom I was just trying to find my own way to grieve.”
“You’re better than a lot of us.”
You almost wanted to laugh at that. He made it sound so noble. For a second you think he’s going to tease you, but there is nothing but sincerity in his eyes.
“I know you’ve heard what they say about you.”
“Watch out, Gordon’s a freak.”
“I heard she talks to dead people.”
“Gypsy my ass.”
“I guess they’re hiring crazies too.”
The statements cops had made in passings, or the ones you heard second hand. You weren’t oblivious. But it’s not like you could really say anything. Proving your abilities was almost as dangerous as defending them.
“If I survive this I’ll be sure to recommend you for a medal.”
He looked cheeky and you actually laughed at that. A genuine, belly hurting laugh. Brass found himself joining in at the pure ridiculousness of the statement.
It was the first time since seeing him that things felt light.
You thought the toughest part would be accepting that you actually kind of enjoyed his company, but you were wrong.
The toughest part was walking into the hospital the very next day and hearing those words.
“I’d encourage you to begin putting his affairs in order.”
The doctor’s somber advice was like a gut punch.
It felt like they’d practically given up.
Catherine had left after those words were spoken and Greg and Warrick were standing off to the side. Nick was at Sara’s side. Grissom seemed to be the only one keeping it together on the outside and you knew that was more for his team than anything else.
The officers within the vicinity didn’t need to hear the words, from the reactions you knew they understood. You’d turned back, expecting Brass to still be at your side, but he was nowhere to be found and you panicked.
You spun around, rushing down the hall.
When you broke the corner, relief washed over you when you saw him sitting in an empty chair next to a vending machine.
Your steps slowed as you approached and he just leaned back.
“You don’t have to look so sad. It comes with the job. If not today then tomorrow. It’s what we signed up for. Maybe it’s payback for what I did.”
“That wasn’t your fault!”
You were angry that he was bringing that up at such a time. Everyone knew he hadn’t meant to shoot that officer. and he looked up, so did the couple that passed by, confused as to who you were yelling at.
You just huffed in defeat, storming off. You didn’t want to spend another day in that hospital.
~
When you got home, you practically slammed the door, not at all surprised when Brass seemed to pop up at your side as if out of thin air.
“Dick move leaving me at the hospital. Is that how you treat your superiors?”
You weren’t in the mood for his comments at the moment.
“You’re such an asshole.”
“A label I’ve heard a dozen times.”
He was still trying to play it off with his poorly timed humor.
You wanted to be angry with him, but in a way, you could see where he was coming from. This situation was completely out of his control. You should probably be proud that he was accepting it so graciously. With another heavy breath, you dropped onto the couch.
You were out of ideas. You feel as though you’ve read every book on planet earth that could have given you any kind of insight.
There’s nothing.
You’re lost and just about ready to give up. It’s infuriating. This is the first time that you weren’t able to help and it’s painful. More so because this isn’t some stranger. This is a coworker, a friend..
When you feel a hand on your shoulder, you look over.
“It’s not your job to solve everyone’s problems.”
There’s a strange sense of understanding in his eyes and your shoulders drop almost in defeat.
Your eyes tear up and in that moment he realizes the weight you've been carrying. It’s never been easy seeing spirits, but this time, it’s even harder. They always said that for cops, homicide was different when you saw that one person on the table.
You suppose this is one of those moments.
You’d never been particularly close with Brass, but you knew him, and he was a good guy. Probably the few dozen left in the world.
“If it’s my time to hit the dirt then it’s my time. There’s nothing you can do to change that.”
You offer a weak glare.
“You’re not exactly making me feel better.”
He grinned, and despite the shitty circumstances, you let out a dry laugh, the tears slowly running down your cheeks. He gave you a gentle rub on the shoulder, and when you let out a soft sniffle, his attention changed.
The hand that was once on your shoulder lifted slightly and he reached out, gently cupping your cheek. The action caught you a bit off guard, and unconsciously, you leaned into the touch.
You felt strangely safe.
His thumb brushed your cheek, catching the remnants of your tears.
The subtle action made you lick your lips, gulping nervously. His gaze had softened considerably and you suppose you must have been mirroring the same. Your body felt warm, unable to pull your gaze away from him. When you bit your bottom lip, you couldn’t seem to stop yourself, you leaned in, the very moment he did and your lips met in a tender kiss.
Your fingers immediately moved to grab at his suit and he welcomed it when you pulled him forward. You both fell back on the couch and he groaned softly when your legs wrapped around his hips as he used his elbow to balance his weight.
Your hands were now gripping at the back of his suit. You would not have separated had it not been for the lack of oxygen. He pulled back to catch his breath and you were panting, trying to do the same. His eyes were solely focused on you and the events seemed to play back in your head, cheeks going red.
He smiled at the bashfully awed expression.
“I appreciate the memorable farewell.”
You were confused at the comment, that’s until you felt the warmth on your fingers tips. The back of his suit was giving a bright glow. Realization hit you like a truck, and you tried to grab him, find a way to hold on, keep him there, he just gave you a saddened smile. The more you tried to hold one the faster he seemed to be disappearing and after a few seconds, his body was no longer solid.
You were crying now and he shook his head with tears of his own.
“Thanks for keeping me company Gordon.”
In a blink, he was completely gone and you were laying there, frozen, unable to utter any words.
Greg was practically beaming when you walked into the lab with Grissom and Catherine.
“I don’t have time for your games. Tell me what you have before I shoot you in the foot.”
The monotone of your voice made him get right back on task. So did the threat.
“Right, well the hairs we recovered weren’t from your typical animal. It’s specific to a certain kind of rodent. Anyone want to take a guess of which one?”
He looked around with a grin and when you placed your hand on your waist, impatient, he cleared his throat.
“The white tailed woodrat. Fun fact, southern woodrats live in caves and cliffs. In the west, woodrats occur from the deserts to the mountains.”
Grissom hummed.
“So we were right, our suspect was out there with the victim.”
Catherine smiled.
“Looks like John has some explaining to do.”
She gave Greg a pat on the shoulder.
“Good job.”
He nodded with a triumphant smile, leaning over with his eyes closed as if to receive a kiss. You just walked out.
“Next time for sure!!”
He called.
That was typically how all your visits went. He’s known for his antics, so you’re not even surprised when you come in sometimes to see a wacky t-shirt or crazy garment on his head, much like today.
The next case had led to a murder at a circus. You weren’t even phased when you entered for your evidence and he was wearing a red curly haired wig and similar round rosy colored nose stuck to his face.
“Did you know circuses originally started for individuals with body deformities? They were outcasts and the circus is where they found themselves."
“I’m surprised you didn’t join one.”
“Hah, that was actually clever. I’ll give you that one.”
He turned back to the microscope.
“So you were right about the fabric. There were traces of the same cleaning detergent on the wife’s jacket. Same with the boots. We have a match.”
He moved back, wheeling over to the other desk as he swiped a sheet of paper. When he rolled back to you he held it out. You were about to take it, but he pulled it back and you just glared.
“Nuh uh, what’s the secret word?”
“Hand it to me or I'll shoot you.”
He gulped.
“Close enough.”
You took it, walking right out, oblivious to the look Greg sent as you made your way down the hall.
He was used to hostility. You were probably the only person that threatened him whenever he went on his tangents. Catherine had warmed him countless times to stop pushing your buttons. She insisted that one day you might actually follow through and shoot him.
Heaven knows sometimes she’s thought about.
Maybe Grissom has too.
A casual snack on a late night case is what you need. You felt like you’d been working for days which had in fact just been about twelve hours. Greg had walked into the kitchen to grab himself a snack, making some coffee. Apparently he had the same idea. When you saw him you lifted a brow.
“You’re still here?”
He nodded, taking a seat with a smile.
“Grissom wanted his best on the case so I decided to reign in the calvary.”
“I heard they were down a guy that’s why you’re out in the field.”
“Potato, tomato.”
He waved his hand, then placed both elbows on the table dropping his chin into his palms as he looked at you. For a while you didn’t really say anything, just had your meal. But the longer he sat there the more irritated you seemed to become.
“Quit staring at me.”
You grumble.
“Can’t help it.”
He was wearing a dopey smile and you just sent him a blank look before you rolled up your trash and stood, tossing it. You didn’t even bid him goodbye, but he still waved, the very same smile on his face.
Yes, you were certain that you disliked the young CSI. He talked too much, made terrible jokes at the worst possible times, and he seemed hell bent on chasing you which really was in poor taste. You were positive you’d done everything to discourage him but he seemed like a dog with a bone. You’re almost positive that you’d never said anything remotely nice to him, yet he kept smiling at you like a lovesick puppy.
His presence was a nuisance.
That’s what you told yourself. Any day that you didn’t have to see him was a blessing.
At least that was the thought.
When you got called to DC to work a high profile case with your brother, you were happy to assist. You’d only been there for two weeks. You hated to admit it, but it was strange going to a crime lab and not seeing the smile you were used to, or poorly concocted pick up lines.
When you returned to Vegas you felt strangely calm, or maybe just comfortable. You had a nice rhythm here. That was it. That’s all it could be.
You shook the thought and went right back to work the following week. Given the close partnership with your department, you did a lot of cases with them, just like Brass.
When you came to collect your sample you expected the spiky haired over zealous scientist, what you got was Hodges.
“Where’s Greg?”
It was strange.
You’d never worked a shift where he was absent.
“Is that a joke? Everyone knows he’s in the hospital. He got shot a day ago.”
Hodges looked up when he realized it was you.
“Oh, welcome back I guess.”
His tone was anything but welcoming and you just went back to work. You meant to inquire about Greg getting shot, but Grissom walked in.
“You’re back. How was DC?”
You turned.
“What happened to Greg?”
Grissom shifted.
“He was shot. Luckily it went through his shoulder and missed anything vital. It happened in our last case. We were out in the field. He actually saved my life. He hasn’t stopped boasting about it either.”
Somehow you felt relieved knowing that at the very least he was well enough to act like the annoying guy he is.
“Are you worried about him?”
Grissom lifted his brow and you didn’t respond, just kept your face neutral.
“We should get back to the case.”
You moved to get the evidence from Hodges and Grissom merely walked over, a small smirk on his lips.
The shift carried on and as much as you tried to avoid it, your eyes would drift to Greg’s work station. Grissom explained that he would be back in a few weeks. Apparently he himself was getting antsy being bed ridden. You were certain that you weren’t even affected. If anything you should be happy for the peace.
But the quiet just felt..empty.
Catherine and Warrick explained that they had set up shifts to visit him. Yesterday was Nick, the day before Sara. Today was supposed to be Grissom.
“You’re going to see him?”
Everyone in the room looked over at Grissom’s words.
“Yes. I don’t think it would look very good if everyone did but me.”
Catherine did her best to hide her smile.
“Of course. You’re right. Have fun.”
She was smiling a bit too wide. Right then she must have realized that your request to see him was more than just a means to save face. You didn’t stick around to entertain any more questions, just left.
Now walking down the hallway, you didn’t realize how heavy your heart felt until you saw him lying on the bed through the blinds. He had a comic book in his hands, and his eyes were focused on the page, but his gaze seemed a bit distant.
When you got to the door that weight all but disappeared. You gave the door a soft knock, opening it as you stepped in.
The second he saw you he was wearing that grin. You closed the door, taking in the many flowers and balloons on the table at the entrance.
“You look comfortable.”
He nodded, almost puffing his chest.
“Well, you know what they say about heroes.”
There was the boasting Grissom mentioned. You were about to say something in response, but your eyes caught the slight tremor in his right hand. You looked up, just in time to see him tuck his hand under the sheet, planting a smile on his face.
“So you came and forgot to bring me flowers, that’s not very subordinate of you.”
He was teasing, and you would have just taken it as his usual playfulness, but you saw the quick change. He’d done what he could to mask that moment of weakness. Nothing about him seemed out of place. His hair was still spikey, he was smiling and he wasn’t wearing a brace, so you could only assume that he was healing nicely.
He was fine.
At least on the outside.
Having a profiler brother made you more aware of things.
Moving closer, you took a seat on the chair that was pulled up to the side of his bed.
He didn’t say anything and you suppose you could have said any number of things, but at the moment it became clear that there was one thing that he needed. Maybe your blunt nature had made you more observant and willing to say what was on your mind.
Reaching over, you gently took his hand that was somewhat buried under the covers. He looked a bit stunned. Whether for the observation or the simple touch, you weren’t sure. What you did know was one thing.
“I’m glad you’re okay Greg.”
Your hand closed over his palm, and you saw the slight waver in his eyes. He’d been scared, rightfully so. You know more than anything he’d probably put up a brave face. Due to his goofy nature it worked. At least for a while.
You’ve had your fair share of bullet wounds and it always left you with some unsettling feelings. For Greg, that must be amplified because he’s not used to being out in the world the way the rest of you are.
When he squeezed your hand back, this time you felt the tremor in his hand. The comic book was now laying in his lap, and he let out a dry laugh, raising his free hand to wipe at his eyes, possibly to get rid of any tears that threatened to spill.
With a soft exhale, he lowered his hand, this time looking at you with a sincere smile.
“Thank you..”
It was a soft whisper, one that you accepted with a nod of acknowledgement.
You’d expertly left for your date with Ishida and planned it almost perfectly so your parents wouldn’t make it within ten feet of him to scare him away with their weirdness.
Unfortunately it was all for not.
Your mother seemed to be just as clever. She’d caught you.
“Gomen, Ishida-san.”
You couldn’t help but apologize, because he’d gotten roped into meeting your parents.
You were both now seated in the living room as your mother smiled. Your father had a glare planted on his face.
“Now, now, don’t be like that (Y/N), the both of you have been dating for a while now and we weren’t able to meet until now.”
“That was on purpose!!”
You sigh internally. Being around your parents is such a hassle.
“It’s nice to meet you Ishida-san. I’m Miko, and this is my husband Rei. Feel free to call us Mom and Dad.”
She waved the wooden spoon in her hand around with the biggest smile.
“What are you saying!!”
Your cheeks are flushed and she just waves it off.
Ishida adjusts his glasses.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.”
He bows and your mother squeals.
“What a pleasant young man. I do hope you’re treating my daughter right.”
She was now gripping the spoon in her hands and when it snapped in half, a bead of sweat ran down the side of Ishida’s cheek.
“Y-Yes, of course.”
She grinned.
“That’s great to hear. Come on (Y/N), you should help me get dinner started.”
You didn’t have a chance to argue, because she was pulling you by the collar of your shirt.
“W-Wait! I don’t wanna!! I want to stay with Ishida-san!!”
Your complaints fell on deaf ears. The door closed and he just sat there awkwardly. Your father was still glaring at him. Now that it was just the two of them, he wasn’t sure what to say.
“So you can see them too.”
Ishida’s brows furrowed at the question.
“See them?”
“Hollows.”
His body stiffened and now he was more alert. Rei simply folded his arms.
“You can relax. I’m not accusing you of anything. There isn’t much that happens that we aren’t aware of. (Y/N) has always been able to see them, she shares her mother’s gifts, as well as my own.”
“That does make sense.”
Your strength had to come from somewhere. The way you’d taken down those hollows was also impressive. When he first started, battling so many on his own was a challenge and you’d done it with ease.
“I’m not going to threaten you like her mother did. Between the both of us, you should be more afraid of Miko than me. She’s twice as strong as my daughter and equally short tempered.”
Ishida believed it too.
He remembered what happened when those boys picked a fight.
“I’m asking you as the father of (Y/N). Please look after my daughter. I understand that it is impossible to know the future, and it would be selfish to force marriage or any other commitment unto you but..” Rei looked off to the side.
“She’s always been a bit disheartened because of her strength. She had a hard time accepting it, accepting herself. No parent wants to see their child suffer. All I ask is that you never be the cause of her pain. It’s been a while since she’s acted this carefree with anyone and I’d like it to stay that way. I always want to see that smile on her face. The one she wore when the both of you stood at the gate.”
More than anything, Ishida understood. You confided as much. Yet, hearing those words from your father made him realize just how deep this was. Your fear of not being accepted just for being yourself.
To him you were already perfect.
That’s what he knows.
“I promise to look after her. I will do everything in my power to ensure she never has to hide who she is. Bceuase who she is, is perfect, regardless of what anyone thinks.”
Ishida’s eyes held resolution and Rei found himself smiling.
“You’re surprisingly romantic aren’t you Ishida-san.”
The statement made him blush and Rei chuckled just as the both of you walked in. You were wearing an apron and Miko looked curious.
“Did we miss something?”
Ishida shook his head profusely, and now you felt like you needed to know. Your father said nothing, and Ishida seemed bashfully quiet. The rest of the night carried on with ease. You all had a meal, and at one point, Ishida had sent you a warm look across the table that made you blush.
When the night was over, you walked him to the gate.
“Thank you for putting up with my family.”
He shook his head.
“I had a great time. Thank you for having me.”
There was nothing more you enjoyed than being around him. You were still a bit curious about what he discussed with your father. You intended to bring it up, but he stepped forward, leaning in and placing a kiss on your cheek. You blushed and he pulled back with a warm smile.
“Have a good night (L/N)-san.”
You couldn’t utter words, just nod bashfully. He sent you one last smile before he was heading down the street.
“What a smooth guy.”
You shrieked at your mother’s sudden appearance behind you.
“Q-Quit stalking me!!”
Clearly you needed to put a bell on her or something.
Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 2: Marriage - Chapter 3
“(Y/N)-san, you’re back! How was it, did you and Kuchiki-taicho get to explore!”
Hanataro asks innocently.
“Oh, we explored alright.”
“Really, what did you explore?”
You blush.
“N-Not much, j-just the area. L-Look at the time! I should get going. See ya!!”
You’re bolting in the opposite direction before he can ask another question.
The minute you’re a safe distance away, you sigh.
You and Byakuya have returned, and that’s the second person you’ve almost spilled the beans to. There would have been more to tell if the both of you hadn’t spent the majority of the time going at it like rabbits.
With a sigh and a little laugh, you’re headed for squad six. You’d just returned from delivering some paperwork, so you’re ready to see what else you need to get done.
Walking through the barracks, the commotion catches your attention. When you hear the squeals, you seem to recall what day it is.
“That's right..”
The new trainees from the academy are coming in today. You’re not surprised that a few of them are flocking around squad six.
It looks like their supervising attendee is giving them a tour of the barracks.
“I can’t believe how handsome he is!!”
More squeals echo and you just sigh. You already know who they’re fawning over.
“Kuchiki-sama, can we join your squad!!”
“I’d like to work under you Kuchiki-sama!!”
They just continue to carry on.
“This batch sure seems to be shameless.”
There’s no reason for you to get worked up. Given how eye catching he is, it’s normal that he’s getting so much attention. Renji is standing right at his side, but they’re all completely ignoring him.
“Kya, marry me Kuchiki-sama!!”
An irk mark pops on your head at the statement, and you mean to step forward and address the person.
“I cannot.”
His words sound absolute and you pause in place.
“I am already married to the woman that I love. I have no desire for anyone else.”
His words make your entire face heat up, and his response just makes the space quiet.
“HE’S SO LOYAL AND ROMANTIC!!!”
Now the yells of excitement are louder than before. The supervisor apologies profusely before he’s leading the group away. Once the area clears, Renjo looks a bit relieved. He turns when he notices you.
“Ah, (L/N)-san.”
Byakuya turns at the sound of your name, and your blush returns with a vengeance when you realize that he must know that you heard the whole thing.
“Did you miss your husband already, (Y/N)-san.”
“N-NO!!
He sure does enjoy teasing you.
A bead of sweat runs down the side of Renji’s head as he watches the exchange.
This is certainly going to become a regular thing.
Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 2: Marriage - Chapter 2
Byakuya has always been a very controlled person.
Composed, stoic, nonchalant, proper.
Yet, there was nothing truly proper about what he was doing right now in the shower.
“B-Bya..”
You couldn’t even manage the words.
With your back pressed to the wall, you were almost impressed that your legs had not given out yet. Maybe that had more to do with Byakuya’s support. He was on his knees, one of your legs draped over his shoulder and the other barely keeping it together on the ground.
With his lips trained on your most sensitive area, you were doing your best not to be too loud, because the room has an echo, and somehow hearing the amplified sounds of your moans made you more embarrassed.
With your hands now clumsily pressed to your lips, you chance a look down, body almost giving out at the sight of his eyes. He was watching you so carefully, those usually nonchalant eyes holding a desire you never thought possible.
Just the look caused your release, and he was careful to support you completely when your body jerked. He held you, licking you thoroughly before he was drawing back, licking his lips in a way that could only be described as seductive.
You caved, and he was on his feet in seconds, now holding you in his arms.
“It seems you’re all dirty again (Y/N)-san.”
You wanted to retaliate, but you couldn’t get yourself to do it. That was the third time he’d made you cum. Your mind was too hazy, and Byakuya seemed content with the expression on your face as he took you over to the bath to clean you off.
When the both of you finally left the bath, you couldn’t help but blush as your mind ran over some of the dirty sounds and positions that transpired.
“I will get started on lunch.”
You could only nod as you shuffled into the room after him. You had no idea how he could be so horny in private and go back to his stoic expression as if he hadn’t literally had you screaming his name just an hour ago.
“Taicho is a beast...”
You thought gazing at him as he moved around the kitchen.
You can’t believe he’d been hiding this side for so long. All you can truly do is admire him. The man who usually shows the world very little. For as long as you could remember he’s always been this confident force. Prideful, sure, but loyal to a fault.
Now that you’re both married, it still feels unreal. Your eyes move to your hand, and you gaze at the ring.
“He’s my husband.”
Sometimes you have to remind yourself how truly lucky you are.
“(Y/N)-san.”
You look up, and he’s holding a dish with what looks like soup.
“Would you like anything else in your miso?”
“A-Ah, no the usual is fine.”
He nods, grabbing a spoon as he moves to the table. He places it down right in front of you.
“It is still hot.” He advises.
You nod, and he moves back to continue preparing his own. It takes about a minute before he’s seated with you. You say your thanks as you both sit in a comfortable silence as you enjoy your meal.
Once the meal is done, you offer to wash and he accepts, moving to your side to dry the dishes as you go.
“You’re quiet.”
The observation makes you look up at him. Your fingers are dripping from the last dish and he just waits expectantly for you to share what’s on your mind.
“I..I just really love you Taicho.”
The honest confession makes his heart give a subtle thump.
“Is that so?”
“H-Hai.”
You mutter bashfully.
Now the space is quiet, and you’re a lot more embarrassed. You mean to say something else, but he leans in, pressing a kiss to your lips. Your eyes widen, and he pulls back after a few heavenly moments. It’s just a few inches, you can still practically taste his lips.
“I love you more, (Y/N).”
Your face erupts in red.
“I-It’s no fair when you hit me with those sudden attacks!!” You complain childishly.
“You attacked me first.”
He reasons, placing the cloth down.
“I-I was just sharing my thoughts.”
You turn your head to hide the redness in your cheeks.
A small smile graces his lips, and he takes a step, leaning down as he places a hand around your waist.
“T-Taicho!!”
He leaves a kiss on your cheek.
“I love your cheeks.”
They heat up in response, and he moves lower.
“I love your neck.”
He drops a kiss right at your pulse and you swallow.
“I love your breasts.”
He cups them both and now it’s near impossible not to show a reaction.
“I love your legs..”
His hand slides down right between your thighs, and you’re grabbing at his hand to ground yourself. Your little labored breaths are exactly what he loves.
In a matter of seconds, he lifts you right off your feet. He’s holding you bridal style, and the look he gives you, well, it’s easy to read.
“Taicho…”
When he looks at you that way, it’s almost too much.
Your hands cup his cheeks as you kiss him desperately.
Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 2: Marriage - Chapter 1
“I can’t believe it.”
Unfortunately after that night the both of you had not done the deed. What’s worse is that it’s been three days. You’ve pretty much just been lounging around the house as you enjoy your time together before you have to ultimately return to duty. You know you should say something, take the initiative, but you don’t have the nerve to bring up the topic and Byakuya is as oblivious as a wall.
Sighing heavily, you carefully hang the robes over the line as you pat the cloth softly. Byakuya is in the garden tending to the smaller cherry blossom trees. As you look on, you can’t help but smile. The wind swaying his clothing as he carefully takes care of the beautiful plants make him look almost angelic.
“I guess I’ve been defeated again.”
Byakuya will forever be your biggest opponent. You laugh to yourself as you continue to hang out the rest of the laundry. Once you’re finished, you turn to head inside.
“Maybe I should make some tea.”
Byakuya seemed to like it when you do, and he’s also a much better cook than you, so maybe you should leave the more intricate dishes to him. Even his weird seaweed snacks taste delicious. You giggle to yourself as he steps inside, sliding the door closed.
“Are you going to make tea?”
“Hai, Taicho!”
You grin happily as you move towards the teapot. You don’t expect it when he flash steps to your side. His robes settled behind him, and you blush when his hands come down on the counter, lips brushing your ear.
“I am your husband now, am I not?”
You're too embarrassed to look, so you just nod, and he brushes his hand along your cheek before he leaves a light kiss on your neck. Your hands balled into fists against the counter.
“I would like to hear you say it.” He urges.
“Y-You’re my husband, B-Byakuya-san.”
He hums in agreement.
“You are my wife, (Y/N)-san.”
You can hear the love in his voice as he says it. You’d think for sure he would ravish you right there and then, but he casually steps back.
“I will take care of dinner.”
That’s all he says before he’s moving to the fridge to get ingredients for your meal.
You’re bewildered.
“A-Are you freaking kidding me!!”
You don’t know how he manages to get you all worked up and then just walk away.
You can hear the shuffling behind you and you just glare in his direction as you grumble internally.
After your meal, you both enjoy a short walk before you’re returning back to the house.
“I-I’m going to shower first!!”
You hurriedly rush to the bathroom, and Byakuya just watches as you disappear around the corner. You need the bath to rid your mind of all your failed attempts. With a little disgruntled sound, you blow bubbles into the water.
“Maybe he…just doesn’t want to.”
Any normal man would have jumped you ages ago. Byakuya isn’t exactly normal. Not at all. You wish you could rid your mind of the doubts and insecurities, but it’s hard.
By the time you finally slip out, you’re not sure how to approach tonight. Byakuya passes you in the hallway to have his own bath, only pausing when he sees you. You do your best to work up a smile as you encourage him in.
He leaves and you move to the bedroom, sitting on the bed as you look at your feet. After a moment you just drop onto the bed, tugging at your robes. Your eyes move to the open window, very conscious of how beautiful the moon looks.
Everything is almost perfect.
You’re not sure how long you just lay there, watching the star filled sky. When the door opens behind you and closes, your head turns lazily. The moment your eyes cast on Byakuya, your heart is hammering.
His hair is still slightly wet, and his casual robes are gently parted in the middle, just enough for you to catch sight of a bit of his chest. You press your legs together in need, eyebrows knitted as you bite your lip.
It’s so unfair. He’s always been so effortlessly beautiful. It drives you crazy. Finally you feel like you can no longer pretend. You straighten, now in a seated position as you look at him.
“P-Please..”
Your plea stops him cold, and for a moment he’s worried, but the second he sees the desire in your eyes, it becomes so real.
“P-Please make love to me..”
You don’t care that you sound desperate, it feels like you’ve been waiting all your life for him. Now that he’s finally yours, you don’t want to wait another second.
You expect a calm calculated getsure, but your back lightly hits the mattress, and Byakuya’s eyes have darkened considerably. His hand cups your cheek and you only get a breath out before his lips are pressed softly to your own.
You melt against the sheets, and Byakuya’s free hand moves to the tie at your waist. The fabric all but falls away, and you part to regain your breath. Byakuya’s eyes run over your form appreciatively. He takes your hand, and when he presses a kiss to fingertips, your cheeks flush.
Every gesture is so loving, so touching. You’re almost in tears. From the way he looks at you to the way that he touches you, it shows you completely what love is supposed to feel like.
When he releases your hand, you reach out, pressing your hand against his chest.
“I..I want to see you too..”
The soft request makes him nod.
Even though you’ve said that, you’re a bit nervous. He patiently waits for you to make a move, and when you do, you reach for the tie that’s keeping his robes together. The second it’s loose, his clothing comes apart, and all you can do is stare. You aren’t surprised that he’s fairly muscled. Everything about him is so magnificent. You can’t do much but stare in awe.
“Are you alright?”
You realized that you haven’t said anything for a while. Your cheeks burn.
“H-Hai!!”
The formal response urges a smile on his lips.
“Is this the first time you’ve seen a man naked?”
You blush.
“O-Of course it is!!”
You yell defensively.
You feel as though he’s teasing you, and you look away with a pout.
“Meanie..”
You grumble.
He can’t help but appreciate the innocent response.
“I am glad that I am your first.”
You’re still blushing, and when he leans down, and nips at your ear, you let out a soft squeak. You mean to protest his teasings, but he kisses you, and any words you hoped to form have disappeared. You’re so taken by the kiss that you haven’t realized that he’s carefully pulling your robes away to fully admire you.
This time when you draw back, you’re both so much closer. His body covers yours so completely, lovingly. Your legs seem to automatically move around his hips, and he welcomes it. His robes are still hanging off his shoulders, and for some reason it makes the situation that much more exhilarating.
You can feel his member right between your thighs, and you moan needily. It’s so close to where you need it most, but just out of reach.
“B-Byakuya..”
You’re almost begging now, and he doesn’t need much more than that. He guides himself at your entrance, and the moment he begins to push through, your body reacts to accommodate his size, his length….
It’s a lot bigger than you expected, then again, it’s not like you have a vast amount of experience. His soft grunt pulls you back, and your breathing tries very hard to settle. He’s stretching you. With a whimper, you bury your face into his neck. You expect discomfort, so it’s not a surprise.
However, the minute your body begins to adjust to him, your legs shake and your hips seem to be begging for more friction, movement, anything. You arch into him, and he lets out a deep sound before his hands secures at the back of your thighs and he’s pulling out to slam back in.
You cry out, stunned at how great such a simple action feels. Maybe he senses that you want more, that you crave it, because he starts moving and you're all but fighting to match any pace. You’ve never experienced anything like this before. Rangiku used to whisper playfully with some of the other reapers, but now you understand it.
All you can get yourself to really do is moan, and it takes you a few moments to realize that your body is giving off a gentle blue glow. It illuminates the room, and Byakuya draws back just enough to look at you. Your lips quiver, and you intend to apologize for losing control, but his body seems to mirror the same light, and the next thrust of his hips makes you scream in pleasure.
He doesn’t stop and you don’t want him to. You’re suddenly thankful for your lapse in control, because every action he makes from this point is nothing short of pure bliss.
Your hips lift every time he pushes into you. Every time you cry out, he just goes faster. He’s determined to make you delirious with pleasure, and it’s absolutely working. You feel an unfamiliar twist in your stomach and you can only assume that your body is close.
When he leans in again and kisses you, that feels like the breaking point. Your body jolts, and you grab at his back when he moans himself, lips parted as he hastily rides out your release.
It hits you, wave after wave. For a moment you’re not certain what’s happened, but you know your body feels incredibly satisfied. Your hips finally slump against the bed, and the heat of his release runs down your thighs as he pulls out.
You’re still trying to get your breathing under control, and Byakuya doesn’t sound much better. Your body’s are still slightly glowing. His eyes look so beautiful in this lighting, just gazing at you.
“I love you..Byakuya..”
It’s all you can get out.
That seems to have triggered something, because he kisses you with a sense of urgency and you blush when you feel him harden against you again. His tongue parts your lips, and you moan against him when the wet appendage seems to stroke you as his hands wander down your body.
You’re a mess, quite completely, and it seems like you’ve woken up some kind of beast, because the look he sends you when he finally pulls back has you swallowing.
“Unfortunately, you will not be getting any sleep tonight.”
Those words send a jolt of arousal right through your body, and just like that, he’s diving back in for more.
You’ve been completely and utterly captured and you have no complaints.
~Extra~
“B-Byakuya-san, w-we need to get the laundry..”
He’s pretty much been screwing you senseless for the last three days. You’d actually forgotten about them until you heard the rumble of thunder outside.
Another moan leaves your lips before you can say much more.
He shakes his head, pulling you closer as he leaves another kiss on your neck. Your body quivers, because you can feel how hard he is, it’s pressed right against your back.
This is ridiculous, he just woke up.
“We have plenty of time for such tasks, right now I would like to hold my wife.”
“B-But we-”
You squeal when his hand slips between your legs.
“I hope you’ve prepared yourself (Y/N)-san.”
“K-KYA!!!”
It’s obvious that you’ve once again underestimated this insatiable man.
Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 1: Our Love - Chapter 32 - Final
After all the pleasantries and congratulations, it’s just you and Byakuya.
You’re anxiously waiting for Byakuya to get out of the bath. You’d practically begged him to go first. Maybe it was a distraction to get you to settle down.
The both of you have retired back to one of his many estates.
This is a distance away from his manor, and a smaller little house that’s just what you need. There’s no guards, or maids. Just you and him. In light of the recent ceremony, the head captain has opted to give you both some time away. You have a few weeks to just enjoy each other.
No duties, or battles.
Rukia has assured that she will handle any problems that arise.
You can’t help but smile at the sentiment. As you take a seat in the main living area, your nerves seem to get the best of you.
“This is it.”
The rumored wedding night. You’ve been thinking about it for a while now. With your hands balled into your lap, you wait for Byakuya to enter. When he does, all you can do is stare.
He looks so elegant, not that you’re surprised.
He takes a seat beside you, and you stiffen.
There’s no way to act like you’re not nervous. Your mind seems to be reeling back to Rangiku’s advice.
“You need to be aggressive (Y/N)-chan! Show him who’s boss!”
You just internally sigh. It would have been sound advice, had she not been completely wasted when she said that.
You’re a mess, your face is getting hotter by the second.
Finally it seems to get to be too much, you spring to your feet to make a dash for the bathroom, but Byakuya takes your wrist softly, halting your movements.
“Are you nervous?”
You flinch, looking down as he guides you back into a seated position at his side.
Shaking your head, you swallow.
“O-Of course not Taich- I-I mean Byakuya.”
That little habit might take a while to break.
“There is no need to push yourself. We do not have to do anything tonight.”
Your eyes widen and you can’t help but protest.
“W-We have to consummate the marriage!”
Your objections catch his attention.
“Do you want to do so merely for the sake of tradition?”
His words make you blush. It’s obvious that your mind is set on doing this, he can see it all over your face. He just hopes it’s more than for some sake of a tradition.
“T-That’s not the only reason.”
You murmur.
It’s embarrassing to admit, but you need him to know. When you finally look up, he’s a bit taken aback by your honest expression.
“Y-You’re my husband and I love you. I-I want to hold you Byakuya.”
A gentle smile makes its way on his face, and he gives your hand a soft squeeze.
“Then there is no need to be nervous, because we feel the same. When you get back, I will be here.”
His calming words have given you a bit of ease. Your cheeks are still flaming, but you couldn’t be happier. He releases your hand, and now you’re a bit reluctant to leave. You linger in place, and he appreciates it. When his stare gets too intense, you turn away, face still cherry red as you dash off to take your bath and join him.
Byakuya watches you leave, very content with the way his life has changed since he’s met you.
He couldn’t ask for much more.
~Extra~
Stepping out of the bathroom, you cling unto your robes. When you lift your head, Byakuya’s sleeping form on the bed makes your face blank.
“A-ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!”
It seems you may have to wait a bit longer for your moment with the stoic captain.
Graduation was filled with tears, cake and a whole lot of bubbly champagne. The little celebrations felt endless and when it all finally died down, the little after party at your house was coming to a close. Your mother was bidding the last of your guests goodbye as you started to clean up.
Clark had left a while ago with his parents, both of them very proud.
Lex lingered back, and when your mother turned the corner and saw him collecting the streamers, she smiled.
“I never thought I’d see the day. A Luthor cleaning my house.”
He gave a small smile, and she moved over to you, patting your shoulder. Given how close Clark and you were to Lex, you supposed it felt natural to have him in the house. She didn’t really see him that different from Pete, Lana or Chloe. All of you had formed a bit of a small group.
She liked him as your friend. Given what happened, you knew it was an adjustment at the start, but she seemed okay with it. You hoped it would make the news a bit easier to handle.
You casted a look at Lex, and he placed the streamers on the table.
You turned to your mother, and she looked invested, especially with how seriously you were now looking at her.
“Honey, what’s wrong?”
She’s concerned, and you just shook your head.
“I-It’s nothing bad.”
You look back at Lex, and he got the hint, moving to your side as he took your hand. Your fingers interlocked, and your mother studied the gesture, slowly putting the pieces together.
“Lex and I, we’ve been dating for about a year.”
For a moment nothing is said. When the silence became too loud, Lex took a step forward.
“I’d like you to know that we’ve been very careful. I understand that she has a future that can’t be jeopardized. I would never do anything to hurt her.”
His words are sincere, but your mother still looks as though she’s calculating all the information.
Her expression is starting to worry you.
“Mom?”
“Yep, still here. I’m just curious. Did she hex you or something?”
“M-Mom!!”
“I have to ask. I gave birth to her but you’re a very attractive man, the math isn’t adding up.”
“ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!”
She smiles, and Lex looks a bit relieved.
“Are you being serious right now!!”
“What, I mean he is a millionaire. Do you know how much of my charm it took to snag your father? He was so popular in college. I was fighting those girls off with a stick.”
You groan, placing your palm in your face.
“You’re unbelievable.”
Obviously you were worried about the wrong thing.
“I find it hard to believe that you did any chasing Mrs. (L/N).”
Lex’s charming smile makes your mother blush and you gape.
“Oh, how sweet.”
She moves to his side, taking his arm.
“Mr. Luthor, I might get the wrong idea and think you’re flirting with me.”
He laughs and you glare, grabbing his other arm.
“S-Stop flirting with my boyfriend! He’s mine!!”
It’s impossible to hide your jealousy and Lex’s smile is twice as big.
“Jealousy isn’t a good look on you dear.”
“Stop trying to steal my man mom!!”
That was how the conversation went.
Lex spent the better part of that half hour laughing as you continued to scold your mother as you all finished cleaning up.
You’d been grumbling as you did the dishes, while Lex was helping your mother fix the table, so you hadn’t heard the words they both exchanged.
“I appreciate you being so transparent.”
Lex was very conscious of the serious tone, as well as the expression of your mother’s face.
“Losing her father, it broke her. It had been so long since I’ve seen her smile. When she got that project with Clark, I was happy. She was so closed off and he brought her back out of her shell. Despite all of that, there’s a part of her that’s always hated anyone with the name Luthor.”
Her expression is a bit sad, and Lex understands. The contempt he’d seen when you confronted that day was easy to spot. When he saw the family photos, he realized. His family had always been just a thing in his life. There was no real bond, no unconditional love.
Yet he took one look at the photos in your home and he could almost feel it. He couldn’t imagine what it felt like to lose that. His mother was possibly the only one who loved him and she’d died when he was so young.
“The fact that she loves you must mean that you’re exceptional, because my daughter is an exceptional person and a great judge of character.”
Those words made him smile.
“Mom..”
The both of them turned, and you were standing in the doorway with a rag in your hand and watery eyes. Your mother actually laughed and you practically raced to her side as you hugged her.
Lex’s smile grew warmer as he watched the little moment before your mother reached out and yanked his arm, pulling him into the hug.
The entire evening was a blessing.
~Extra~
“I still can’t believe she tried to steal you.”
Lex is still laughing as you angrily pace around his living room.
“No need to get so riled up, I’d never choose anyone else, after all, I’m yours aren’t I?”
You should have known he would tease you.
All you can do is grumble, and he grins, leaning in and leaving a kiss on your cheek.
“You’re hot when you get all possessive and jealous.”
He intends to remind you of those words you said forever.
Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach) - Noble Series 1: Our Love - Chapter 31
Now the situation truly dawns on you.
“I-I proposed to him! I didn’t even get him a ring!!”
You’re a bit disappointed in yourself. You’ve been running yourself in circles for the past couple days. There’s just so much that needs to be handled. Like the wedding, when is it going to be, where is it going to be, what is his favorite color, what kind of foods does he favor.
“GYAH!! This is frustrating!!”
Among other things. Somehow you’d ended up back at your barracks. You can’t exactly drop work because of your personal battles. Another issue is you’ll need to start telling your colleagues, peers, friends. But what can you say, that you’ve asked the most beautiful being in the world for his hand in marriage and you have very little to show for it?
The better question is, how are you going to face Byakuya?
Your mind seems to run through all the times he’s been there for you.
Standing up to your father, confessing his feelings, protecting you, saving you from making a mistake. It’s always been him, since the moment that you decided that you wanted to protect others.
It’s still hard to believe that he accepted your proposal.
“But I didn’t plan this well at all!”
You scold yourself.
You’re pacing so much that you don’t register when Byakuya walks in.
“(Y/N)-san.”
You shriek, spinning around.
Maybe coming to the squad barracks was the wrong call. He’s patiently waiting there for you to explain yourself and it just adds to your nerves.
“G-Gomen Taicho!”
You bow excessively, because you realize once again that you’re being a bother. When you fully straighten, his expression hasn’t truly changed. He wants to know why you’re so tense. You just let out a sigh, fidgeting with your robes.
“I-I’ve been thinking about all that has happened and I…I made a declaration but there is so much that has to be done. I want everything to be perfect but I don’t think I can do that and I..”
You tighten your fist at your side.
“I-I just-”
“To me, the only thing that matters is that we are together. “
His statement stops you cold. You stare at him in awe. Although it’s often difficult to gauge his words and actions, it’s one of the many times that he looks as honest and earnest as he sounds. Standing there right now, you can almost feel the strength of his love, just by looking in his eyes.
“Having the pleasure of one day calling you my wife, that is enough.”
Your eyes shake at his confession. When he holds out a hand for you, for a moment you see it all. That very first meeting, your training, the academy, joining his squad, standing by his side, holding his hand, sharing your first kiss..
It all plays back like a movie and a smile makes its way on your face as you reach out and take his hand.
Somehow, it feels like everything will be alright.
~Two Years Later~
The soft melodies playing in the background make you nervous. Ukitake has agreed to walk you down the aisle, and he can probably feel your nerves. He wears a gentle smile, patting your hand.
“There is no need to be nervous (Y/N)-san. You are absolutely beautiful. Kuchiki-san is a lucky man.”
You nod frantically, doing your best not to start crying.
“A-Arigatou Ukitake-taicho!”
He laughs softly, waiting for you to take the first step.
The length of your kimono trails behind you as you step out onto the path. All heads turn as you walk down the strip that is lined with sakura petals. You’re at one of the Kuchiki manors. The backyard is somewhat bigger than Byakuya’s main house.
It’s why he’d recommended the spot. Rangiku is throwing flower petals, and Hanataro has a tissue out, wiping the corner of his eyes. Rukia looks completely enamored. Ichigo rolls his eyes at the scene that Shinji is making ahead.
He’s a few rows ahead, crying.
“I can’t believe this is actually happening!!”
A bead of sweat runs down your head when Kensei smacks him harshly over the head to silence him. You just let out a little laugh, continuing down the walkway. Byakuya is standing at the altar, and the moment your eyes meet, you lose your breath.
He’s always looked very handsome, but somehow his beauty is almost amplified. Jushiro passes your hand over when you stand before Byakuya as Jushiro excuses himself with a smile.
Now standing before Byakuya, you can’t help but admire how amazing he looks in his traditional robes. Everything feels absolutely perfect. The minute you take his hands, all those nerves have somehow disappeared. All your friends, colleagues, acquaintances, everyone who’s ever influenced you or meant anything to you is standing right here.
It all feels amazing.
Byakuya’s expression is so soft, so loving, and you lecture yourself not to cry, but the tears are already forming.
Despite that, you’re smiling so brightly.
Reading the vows might be tougher than you expected. Every word that you speak is a song right from your heart, and Byakuya listens, eyes displaying the same level of love that you do.
By the time he’s done with his own vows, you’ve given up on trying to hold back the tears. When you exchange the rings, you’re smiling so much that you’re sure your face is going to hurt later.
“I love you, Taicho.”
He can’t help but appreciate the formal way of address. It’s something he’s come to enjoy. He’s still holding your hands, and right before he leans in for the kiss, he lingers.
“I will cherish you forever, (Y/N).”
His words make your heart feel full and you return the sentiment, stepping forward as you kiss him happily. The cheers echo in the background, and you feel as though you’ve never been happier than you are at this very moment.
“NO!!!!!! YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO MARRY ME (Y/N)-CHAN!!”
Shinji’s wails only receive another harsh blow to the head.