Nel gripped the wrapped package to her chest as her hazel orbs scanned the surroundings in an agitated fashion, purposefully in search of a certain captain. She broke off her search momentarily to cask a considering gaze at her bundle and wondered for perhaps the hundredth time whether Ukitake-taichou would enjoy the gift.
It was Ichigo who had explained the customs of Valentine’s Day to her, how people gave gifts to those they cared for in the spirit of friendship or romance. Nel had read numerous tales of romance, it was a common element in most stories after all, but she had never experienced such feelings herself. At least not that she could remember during her time as a Hollow. As for friendships, her Fraccion and Ichigo were foremost on that list but when she thought of how kind and considerate the captain of the thirteenth squad had been to her, well...
He was like a friend... sort of....
Chocolate was apparently the traditional gift given but somehow the ex-Espada didn’t think it would be suitable. Gifting the captain something that was practical seemed more appropriate than a miniature sweet treat, and would last longer as well. She knew the shinigami was sickly by the way he was perpetually coughing and figured the condition was likely to become aggravated in cooler weather. It was this knowledge that resulted in the particular gift she had chosen but whether it would be to his tastes was another matter.
Only one way to find out...
Finally catching sight of her quarry, she trotted over to him and shyly presented the gift she had been holding.