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Title: Fall

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Chapter 17:

May all that is good have mercy on your soul



It looks alright.

It does, really.

Hinamori scanned the place where her cousin was going to stay. It was okay, in a sense, but it was just too shabby, compared to their house and Rukia’s oh so wonderful room.

The peach girl approached her raven haired cousin, who had just finished carrying her boxes inside her new unit. “Rukia, are you really sure about this? You can still change you mind.”

Rukia smiled back at her and shook her head. “This is fine, don’t worry. It just looks shabby outside but it’s actually okay on the inside, a little patching up and it’s good. Even Ichigo thinks so too.” The raven haired girl took out some mugs inside her ‘kitchen stuff’ box. “It’s better than having nothing at all right?”

“Yeah, maybe I was just over reacting, or I just really want you back at home.” Hinamori giggled, and helped Rukia take out the coffee. The moving in wasn’t a big deal considering that Rukia doesn’t have much stuff with her in the first place, so all she brought was her belongings and stuff Unohana gave her, like the kitchen goods.

“I’ll visit now and then; it’s not that far from here to your house. And when you come back here next time, you’ll see a big difference, because I’m gonna make this place the most beautiful unit you have ever seen.” Rukia declared.

“I’ll count on that.” Hinamori sat down on the floor; she took a day off at work today to help Rukia and her moving out.

“So, what are your plans now?” The raven haired girl asked.

“Nothing really, I figured I would help you today unpacking and all.”

“Shush! Do these boxes look so many to you?”

Hinamori shook her head.

“Exactly! Now, let’s leave this and go hang out or something.” Rukia took her cousin’s hand. “Where do you wanna go?”

“Let’s go to Rangiku’s place, you can meet her too, she’s the one I’ve been telling stories about you and the Shinigamis.” Hinamori chirped. Rukia shook her head in disbelief. “I can’t believe you actually brag about that.”

Hinamori giggled, “Why not? She also agrees that you are so lucky; you’d be the envy of every girl if this ever comes out. And to think you didn’t even have a clue about them at the beginning.”

The amethyst eyed young woman raised an eyebrow and snorted. She was doing well when Hinamori suddenly asked her about the other day’s photo shoot. “Uhm, it was okay… awkward actually.” Rukia flushed, remembering how she was forced to model and had to clad in an outfit that resembles curtain drapes, she had never worn anything so scandalous in her life, and her heart skipped a beat when she also remembered her and Ichigo’s role playing. Not to mention close proximity.

“How could it be awkward, weren't you were just watching?” Hinamori raised a suspicious eyebrow. Apparently, Rukia had never told her about the modeling thing. But the peach girl knew something was amiss when her cousin went home all dazed and with a face resembling a ripe tomato. “You’re hiding something from me, say it.”

Needless to say, Rukia almost jumped, yep, guilty indeed, and she couldn't lie to Hinamori anymore. “Well, look Hinamori, I would tell, but promise you won’t laugh or disclose this to anyone. This will be just between you and me.”

And soon, she spoke.

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Hitsugaya Toushiro sat comfortably on his chair, sipping onto some demitasse, which he enjoys rather well in times like these when he is relaxing and spacing out. He wished for it to last long, if only, just only his bandmates slash friends would stop making his house their hang out place.

“Oh hey, I did it! Too bad for you Ichigo, you suck!” Hisagi bellowed, Ichigo grumbled back at him. “I don’t suck; I just let you win because you’re such a sore loser!”

Great, of all people he had to be stuck with, it had to be Ichigo and Hisagi, the two pain-in-the-ass friends of his. He opted for Chad, he’s much better even if he doesn’t speak much, at least he’s not damn loud and childish, like these two in front of him.

The white haired young man slammed his cup on the table. “Oi, why can’t you two just play in your own houses damn it?!”

Hisagi turned to look at their prodigy friend, raising an eyebrow as he did so. “It’s a garbage dump at Kurosaki’s I tell you, we can’t play at such shit hole. And it’s boring in my place… Urahara’s dome isn’t available too since Yoruichi is sponsoring today’s session of the ‘cat lover’s club’” The tattoo faced man sighed before continuing. “I suggested we go over to Rukia’s new place but carrot top here protested so much, and threatened to waste me if I do it.”

“HEY! IT is not a garbage dump, it just so happens that Shorty here still has his wii in tact and in a damn good condition too!” Ichigo coughed, “And we can’t go over to Rukia’s too because she’s just started settling there.”

Hisagi grinned. “Hmph, you just want her all to yourself. I bet you’ll go there after all this.”

The carrot top flushed and then started to pounce on Hisagi, with an attempt to claw his guts out. “SHUT UP! IT’S NOT LIKE THAT!”

Hitsugaya smirked, but then frowned when he saw that between his fighting friends, his wii was sitting there helplessly. And Hitsugaya swore that if it could talk, it would have told him: SAVE ME.

He had to put a stop to this.

“ALRIGHT YOU TWO, QUIT IT!” He yelled real loud and the two stopped their bickering. “It was because you two play so rough, you ended up killing your console. Damn! Let go of my game now before you bestow it the same misfortune you have given yours!”

Ichigo and Hisagi dropped the joysticks simultaneously. The carrot top then stood up and dusted his pants. “Che, stingy.”

“So what? I don’t care. You’re just all flushed up because what Hisagi said about Rukia is true. You can’t hide it from us lover boy.” Hitsugaya’s emerald eyes sparkled mischievously.

“Shut your trap you pint sized prick.” Ichigo grumbled and settled himself on a small bean bag.

“Oi, what time do you think Chad will come?” Hisagi plopped down on Histugaya’s living room carpet. “I don’t know, geez, you really plan on staying here for the day don’t you?” Hitsugaya gave up, even if he tells them off, they won’t listen anyway.

“Just do me a favor and do not make such a mess. No food on anything, I mean it, especially on my piano. And please, lower your shrilling you girly freaks, I want to at least finish my demitasse in peace.”  He finally said as he made his way towards his balcony, away from them.

“Demitasse? Aren’t you too young for such a strong coffee? No wonder you’re not growing any taller…” Ichigo snickered.

“I’m freaking 21 years old Ichigo, and unlike you, at least I am mature in thinking, so I don’t care about what you say.” Hitsugaya casually pointed out as he smirked and left.

“Why that freakin…piece…little…white haired…” Ichigo grumbled, obviously defeated.

Hisagi then tapped his shoulder. “Forget about that, Chad’s here with Urahara, and they have absolutely brilliant news.”

“Is that why we are all here? Other than playing, of course.” The carrot top inquired and his tattoo faced friend nodded.

Urahara came in the front door, skipping and singing his lines as if his talking was really that way. “Oh, everyone, please gather around, I have a surprise!”

Hisagi rushed over to the balcony and dragged Hitsugaya out. Once they were in a small circle, Urahara giggled excitedly.

“Oi, geez, just get on with what you are going to tell us, I don’t have time to hear your ‘ritual’ giggling. You’re insane.” Ichigo scoffed. “My, we are in a hurry aren’t we? Excited too?” Their manager cooed, and Ichigo frowned back at him.

“At exactly 9am this morning, the news stands and magazine stores sold out this month’s issue of ‘amour’ the sexy women’s magazine. And why is that?” Urahara grinned.

“Because we’re on the cover and we’re damn HOT!” Hisagi pumped his fist in the air.

“Yes, correct… but wait, there’s more!” Urahara announced, holding on the magazine and refusing to show it the boys—well, not yet.

“What do you mean there’s more? There’s no more credible answer than that right?” Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“Good grief, now I know how Rukia feels when they are around you cocky freaks.” Hitsugaya slapped his forehead.

“Shut up, as if you’re not part of it.” Ichigo bit back.

“It’s Rukia.” Chad came.

The three turned to look at him with puzzled looks. “Ha?”

Urahara’s grin went wider and slammed open the magazine on the table. The three then looked down at the product of their photo shoot the other day.

The three were amazed at how beautiful and well, majestic the photos turned out to be. Kiyone did a great job, and hell, it was fabulous. Ichigo eyed the beautiful petite young woman in Hisagi’s arms. They each had their own page, the right was where the picture is placed and the left is where their interviews and small boxes of their individual shots is located.

They all turned the page to look at Hisagi’s, Hitsugaya’s and Chad’s themes with Rukia. What the heck—where was Ichigo’s? The next page was the centerfold, he can’t be there.

Before any of them could turn the page, Urahara slammed his palm on the magazine to stop them. “Wait, answer the second question please. What do you think is the other reason why the magazine sold out? Other than you guys being hot, of course.”

“I don’t know, now move your hand away from the magazine so we can get on with it.” Ichigo grumbled, still curious as to where his picture—his and Rukia’s picture was placed.

“Impatient aren’t we. Alright, I’ll tell, get ready.” Urahara smirked and turned the page over for the three anticipating guys. Chad smiled there silently, apparently, he had seen and known the reason since he was with Urahara when they got the news.

“It’s because of this.” The gentle giant came.

The three gawked. Hitsugaya gave out a loud chuckle and Hisagi whistled, while Ichigo? Well, he’s blushing furiously mad right now, because what he saw next made his breath stop and his heart skip mile loads of beats.

On the centerfold was their (him and Rukia’s) picture, almost kissing, but that wasn’t what amazed him, the picture, it almost looked like they have this intense passion for each other, as if they had really lived out the theme: forbidden lovers. He coughed a bit to release some pressure from his chest. “Oh, uhm, well, that’s a nice shot.”

Hisagi narrowed his eyes and smirked. “You think?”

“So, what does this picture got to do with said magazine going sold out in a matter of hours?” Hitsugaya smiled, he liked the outcome of the images, and was glad that it was Rukia instead of Senna.

“People are now curious as to who is Rukia, and the most important thing is, people are also curious as to who is she in the life of Kurosaki Ichigo, for them to be able to make such a convincing pose, and to make carrot top’s face look that soft.”

“What?!” Ichigo sputtered. “Can’t this people see that it’s just a shoot? Anybody could do that!”

“Guess you’ll have to deal with it boy, that’s show business.” Urahara chirped. “Anyway, I’ll be off for today. I have some business to attend to. In the meantime, why don’t you all visit the lady in question? I am sure she will be mighty confused as to why people around are talking about her.”

The four, especially Ichigo paled. “Crap.” was all they can say.

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Rukia and Hinamori then walked off towards Matsumoto’s store, only to find that the girl wasn’t home. All the while, Hinamori learned about Rukia and her sub modeling and was pleased about it actually, no laughing occurred, but there were lots of teasing much to Rukia’s displeasure. Hinamori can’t wait to see said pictures, but Rukia didn’t want her to see it because it was just too embarrassing.

The peach girl argued that all the people of Japan would see it anyway, Rukia became nervous about that, but her cousin told her that it’s nothing to worry about since, it’s just a sub modeling biz, it’s not worth the media and fuzz. And then she went into fan girl mode again, telling Rukia how truly lucky she is and so on and so forth.

Soon, they entered the mall.

“Uhm Hinamori?” Rukia placed a nervous hand over her cousin’s shoulder, while said cousin turned to look at her with inquisitive eyes. “Yeah Rukia?”

Rukia fidgeted a bit and then quickly stepped forward beside Hinamori, her head looking both left and right before settling her gaze at the peach girl. “Is it me, or are the people around are really giving me these strange looks?”

Hinamori raised an eyebrow at her cousin’s question, she sighed before answering. “Whatever do you mean?”

The Raven haired young woman held on to Hinamori’s arms, as if it was her lifeline. “I don’t know… it’s just that, the moment we stepped inside this mall, they started looking at me strangely, and they were whispering, I just don’t know what… Do I have something on my face or what? It’s making me nervous.” She whispered.

The peach girl then decided to look around them.

By gosh, Rukia was right. They were indeed looking at their direction, and they were whispering to boot too! Now, it made Hinamori nervous too, maybe it was her that has something on her face or whatever that the people around them found weird, but the peach girl decided to confront this. With a frown on her face, she was about to go on her way and ask what the hell is the matter when Rangiku’s voice came.

“HINAMORI! OVER HERE, QUICK!” The strawberry blonde came, waving her hand in their direction. Hinamori sighed in relief and dragged her stooping cousin with her inside Rangiku’s jewelry store.

As soon as the two got in Matsumoto’s shop, they breathed in and out before asking the big busted girl.

“What the heck is going on out there? Why are they all looking at us like we’re some kind of… Oh, I don’t know!” Hinamori raised her hands in defeat, Rukia still shivered at the fact that all eyes were on her, she really, really hated that.

“Well if you want to find out, it’s all because of your pretty little cousin over here.” Matsumoto smirked and pointed to Rukia. The amethyst eyed young woman looked at her in a bewildered expression. “What did I do?”

“You really want to know?” Matsumoto came again. The two cousins nodded out of curiosity. Then without notice, the strawberry blonde haired woman placed down a magazine in front of them.

“Oh my Go—Rukia, that’s you and Ichigo. That’s the photo shoot you talked to me about right?” Hinamori came, after seeing her cousin and Ichigo’s sort of sexy picture.

“Yes, but, I thought it’s not worth fuzzing about. Besides, I only did it because they really needed help… I, well, if only I knew that it will come to this, then…” Rukia choked, she didn’t really want any of these at all.

“Hinamori’s right, it’s a simple sub modeling not worth fuzzing about. But the thing is Rukia, you subbed—no, scratch that, replaced Senna’s position for this shoot. And also, the image of Ichigo and you was so convincing, people thought that there was something going on between you two.” Matsumoto cooed.

“But, but it’s just a shoot!” Rukia slapped her hand over her face, attempting to cover her face out of embarrassment. “And I just subbed, that’s all, I didn’t replace anybody… it’s because that Senna really didn’t show up.”

“Oh my, gosh, this is so getting better every time! Imagine my cousin, replacing Senna! The Senna, as in, ‘THE’ model Senna!”  Hinamori gushed. “Come to think of it, it really does look like you two lived up to the theme. I have never, ever seen Ichigo’s face soften like this in any of his pictures.”

“HINAMORI!” Rukia almost wailed. “You’re supposed to be siding with me, and I didn’t replace her. I SUBBED! She didn’t show up, so I SUBBED!”

“That’s not what they say baby.” Matsumoto stroked Rukia’s hair in an attempt to at least calm her down. “You see, Kiyone, as in Kiyone, the highly regarded professional photographer, cut all her connections with Senna that same day. So, it was assumed that she’s been replaced, kaput, no more tandems with the blonde genius.”

“Rukia, oh gosh, you have so many lucky stars, I love you so much my dearest cousin, and you are so way up on top of my list, my fave cousin list!” Hinamori went into fangirl mode, and all Rukia could do was sigh.

“I knew that hanging out with that Ichigo has its drawbacks. Geez, I can’t believe this… I just wanted a peaceful life here… How can you say I’m lucky?”

Matsumoto shook her head. “Anyway, you don’t have to worry about it. I’m sure they’ll do something about all of this. It’s not your part anymore, and don’t comment on anything. That’s show business young lady, don’t let it get to you. The thing is we believe you, so who cares about them anyway?”

Rukia let out a smile. “Right. You’re right. Thanks Rangiku-san.”

Then Rukia’s cellphone rang. She narrowed her eyes, almost afraid to look at the LCD. Speak of the devil.

“Yeah? Right. Yup, I know about it, guess what, they’re all staring at me, and right now, I kinda hate you for that.”

Matsumoto and Hinamori stood side by side and giggled as they watch Rukia talk with Ichigo—It was Ichigo, no doubt about it. No matter what they say, they really act like they are together.

“What, are you crazy?  I can’t meet you—NO! No, not with what’s going on! No wa- Alright, as long as you do something about this. I’m serious Ichigo, I can’t have this rumor lasting any longer. Yes, okay. Yes, Alright already!” Rukia huffed and slammed her cellphone shut.

“So, what did he say?” Hinamori asked.

“He said they’ll do something about it. Urahara’s on his way to talk about a press meeting and all about Senna being cut off with them and Kiyone… and then they’ll throw this entire 'rumor’ sideways in said conference.”

“That’s good right? But why are you still frowning?” Matsumoto asked.

Rukia jerked a bit and then played with the thin ribbon tied on her waist. “He said he and the rest wanted to meet with us.”

“Okay, where?” Hinamori asked.

“Urahara’s.” Rukia pouted, she still thinks this wasn’t a good idea. “He’ll be texting me the directions…” her cellphone vibrated. “Here it is now.”

“Well, that’s nice. Be careful you two, and have fun.” Matsumoto waved. “Oh and Rukia, cheer up, if a guy tells you he’ll do something about it, he’ll do something about it. Plus, its Ichigo, he’s bound to have something up his sleeve.”

“Thanks again Rangiku-san, and I truly hope you’re right.” She waved goodbye to Hinamori’s friend—and also now her newfound friend. “Bye Rangiku, see ya.” Hinamori smiled and left, following behind Rukia.

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“So, we have to do something about this Urahara, I can’t have those rumors about Rukia and me and her ‘replacing’ Senna spread any further. It’s just too much for her; we can’t drag her into this.” Ichigo frowned and plopped himself on the couch.

The living room still had some remnants of cookies and coffee and ugh—cat hairs since Yoruichi’s ‘cat lover’s club’ session finished awhile ago. Yoruichi then decided to take some strolls with her cat lover members—which includes her friend Soi Fon. (That explains the complementary cookies and coffee.)

“Don’t worry about it. I have it all planned out, it just so happens that Rukia was squashed in between all of this, you know Kiyone and the thing with Senna and then her subbing. Tsk, tsk.” Urahara waved his fan around.

“I told you it wasn’t a good idea to use her in the first place. Geez, are you trying to kill her of embarrassment?” Ichigo scowled, stretching his arms in front of him.

“No, but you liked it when she subbed anyway.” Hisagi grinned, which earned him a growl from the said orange top.

“In case you don’t notice Ichigo, the rumor started with you other than Senna. The people are curious because you gave out that ‘soft’ expression you have never done in your entire life.” Hitsugaya scoffed.

“Hey, hey, I just did what I was asked to do, how can they say I have never done that? The sexy photo shoot was a first for me too; they can’t possibly have any comparisons!”

Hisagi opened the magazine again. “Yeah, but hell Ichigo, you and Rukia did a pretty good job here. And Rukia-chan looks really beautiful here; you can’t even imagine that it’s her when you first look at it.”

Ichigo snarled and told his tattoo faced friend to shut the hell up.

“Anyway, the issue here is to at least clear everything about Rukia-chan. She has done enough to save us with the photo shoot, so we should at least do something about this for her.” Chad came.

All of them looked at him with wide eyes. Then they soon nodded, agreeing to what the giant had said and that it sure shocked them that Chad was able to say something so long—this must be really, really serious.

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Flashes of light came, the clicking of cameras were like a chatter of people, talking at the same time. Hisagi first came up the stage where a long white table is located, followed by Histugaya, Ichigo and Chad. Urahara just stood there at the sides with his fiancée Yoruichi.

When they sat down, Hisagi was the first to speak, “Alright, good morning everyone, I’ll cut to the chase, let’s start with the questions.”

The people in front of them started to talk simultaneously, Ichigo had to wince, geez can’t they all wait their turn?

“Yeah, you, let’s have it.” Hitsugaya pointed to a bespectacled woman in front. “Ah yes, first off, congratulations to you guys for topping the charts for 2 consecutive weeks. Anyway, my question is about you not having anymore connection with Senna, is that true?”

Histugaya grabbed the microphone and spoke, “Yes, unfortunately, she and Kiyone had a little misunderstanding, not that big, but I’m sure it’ll be remedied in time. For now, since Kiyone handles us too along with Urahara, well, we also go with what she decides.”

Ichigo frowned and thought to himself, ‘nice answer prodigy, but if it were me, I hope it won’t be remedied ever!’

Then the chatter came again, like a pack of hungry wolves, that’s what they are. Hisagi smirked. “yeah, you, bring it on.”

The stubby young man arranged his tie and glanced over his notepad for the question. “Mr. Kurosaki.”

Hitsugaya elbowed him and he glanced up in front of him. “Yeah?”

“Yesterday, the amour magazine sold out all of its copies because, other than you guys being the cover in a very sexy photo shoot, there is also this certain girl…”

Ichigo grumbled and grabbed the microphone, not even letting the man finish his question. Hisagi, Chad, and Hitsugaya all gave him a look that said: calm down or you’ll make it worse than it is.

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Inside Rukia’s new apartment, the raven haired girl fixed her clothes as she watched the press conference on her mini TV. Yesterday Ichigo asked her to come over to talk about the growing rumor. She knew what they were gonna say because of that, and was relieved that they would do something about said rumor.

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“About that… this girl that you all saw in the magazine was a friend of ours, just like Yoruichi over there.” He pointed to where his manager and fiancée was standing. “But anyway, Yoruichi is after all our manager’s fiancée. But the thing is she is a very close friend of ours, who we would like to thank for helping us during the shoot. We do not wish to disclose any information about her to respect her privacy.” Ichigo huffed and leaned back on his chair.

Another woman came. “So, you two are not going out, or intimate or anything?”

Ichigo felt a vein almost pop out but decided to be mature about this. “No, but by going out meaning hanging out, yeah, we are all good friends here after all.”

“Then why the sudden change in expression? It’s the first time we saw you reveal a face like that.”

“It’s my first time doing a shot like that, so I thought, maybe I should give change a try. I must admit, we fooled you there. I guess I should try my acting skills next.” He gave out a mock laugh but the audience didn’t notice anything fake about it so they also laughed with him.

“So, it’s not true that she replaced Senna?”

“No. Like Hitsugaya said, we had a bit of a problem, and we’re very glad our friend helped us solve it. She’s not a full pledged model anyway.”

“Maybe you should make her, she’s pretty good.” Another voice came and all nodded.

“I don’t think that’s up for us to decide.” Hisagi chuckled, and looked over to his friends; they were doing this perfectly, just as they practiced.

“I heard she is an aspiring manga artist.” A voice came from behind. Ichigo scanned the audience to look at whom the voice belonged. “You, what’s your name? You’re not part of the press.”

The boy fumbled and went up in front. “Uh… I… my name is Hanatarou, sorry for butting in like that, but ‘chappy’ is an aspiring artist right? I have seen her works in the weekly magazine, she’s quite good, and I think I call myself her fan.”

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Back at Rukia’s apartment, the amethyst eyed young woman blushed. “OH MY, IS THAT ACTUALLY A FAN?”

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“Cha—what?” Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“Alright, that’s it I guess, if there are no more questions, we will take our leave.” Urahara came forward. The press people were convinced at all the answers and also took their leave.

Ichigo however, approached the boy named Hanatarou and asked him some more questions.  “Hey, how can you be sure that this girl you call ‘chappy’ is the same as in the magazine?”

Hanatarou looked back at Ichigo. “Oh, I have met her back at the editor’s place, she’s nice really. You see, I was trying my luck also with manga, but I’m still out of practice and still in high school… so… But I can’t believe it, chappy is also modeling. Wow, she’s such a multi talented woman.”

“Uh, no… she’s not she just subbed. And I don’t think she would want to do that ever again anyway. So, chappy you say?”

“Aw, too bad. Yep, you should go see her works, it’s really cool.” Hanatarou smiled.

Ichigo smiled awkwardly. “Uh yeah, uhm hey kid, let’s see… uhm I’ll have you promise one thing okay? You see, ‘chappy’… well, she’s in a pinch with all those rumors right now, so you see…”

“You want me to not tell other people about her real job right? Well at least not right now, seeing that you and she have this rumor going on.” Hanatarou held on to his chin,

“Uh yeah, for now, until the rumor dies out. But I’m sure it will since we have confirmed everything.”

“I understand. I’ll consider it as a mission given to me by the pink bunny goddess.”

“Uh.. okay. Thanks, I guess.”

“And hey, Kurosaki-san, take care of her.” Hanatarou waved his hand and ran away.

“Right.” He smirked and went back to where the others are. Chappy eh? Come to think of it, he had been helping out Rukia and never realized that that’s the pen name she uses. Stupid name, stupid him. But then, he knew one way or another the people will eventually find out that chappy is Rukia, the girl in the photo shoot—but at least it won’t be right now, it will come eventually, in a good way he supposed.

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A month after and the rumor died out eventually—thank god!

Rukia didn’t care if it was thrown out like an old rug. She didn’t want it in the first place anyway.

So far, Rukia’s life had been almost completely about submitting her weekly chapters. And since she is such an orderly girl who planned her time well, she almost—almost did not have any problems regarding her works, and since Ichigo has been more than willing to help her in his vacant days.

She had finally repainted her apartment with the same color and design as her previous room back at Hinamori’s. She wanted it to be identical, since it made her feel at home with her Aunt and cousin. The Shinigami crew helped her in doing it and she was very grateful about it.

The whole ordeal was half a disaster and half fun really. Rukia noted that the press conference a month ago helped with the people knowing and understanding the fact that she is friends with the Shinigami’s. And her job as a manga artist had finally reached the press. Although it wasn’t that much of a hot issue, it sure helped by advertising Rukia’s work for free.

There are still the occasional rumors of her and Ichigo, but the two decided to ignore everything about it for none of it is true anyway—at least that’s what they thought, but that’s not the point here.

Chad and Hisagi sat down side by side as they sipped onto some of their freshly squeezed mango shake that Rukia made herself. “Hey, Rukia, can we watch TV?” Hisagi asked.

Rukia peeked in from her tiny room. “Sure, go on ahead.”

And soon, the two were now watching. Hitsugaya entered the apartment after. “I got what you asked for Rukia.”

“Oh, thank you very much, here I’ll take that.” Rukia took the bag of vegetables from Hitsugaya. The white haired boy looked around, “I gotta admit, we did a good job around here guys.”

Chad nodded and Hisagi grinned. “Tell me about it, we can sideline as house painters.”

“Oh hey, damn it, who opened the TV?!” Ichigo came grumbling in from the door. Hisagi raised his hand.

“Shit Hisagi, I was fixing the antenna up on the roof, I almost got electrocuted.” Ichigo mumbled and sat down on the floor, taking off his shirt and wiping it on his sweaty forehead.

Ignoring Ichigo’s rambles, Hisagi decided to talk. “It’s a slow day for us huh? Imagine, top charts, gig will be next, next week… yo Ichigo, got any new song for us lately?”

Ichigo was about to speak when Rukia gave out a loud scream. He instantly rushed over to her room, with just one sprint since her unit was small. “What happened?” He called out to her and saw her sitting in front of her computer.

“Gwah! Brother’s coming over to visit! I’m so happy!” She stood up and turned to look at Ichigo, the delight in her face diminishing. “Damn it Ichigo, put a shirt on!”

Ichigo looked down at his bare top and blushed. “Oh, sorry.” He put back on his shirt. “By the way Rukia, I have finished fixing your antenna.”

“Thanks. Uhm, yeah… right, I should prepare lunch them for all the trouble I have caused you guys.” She headed towards the kitchen.

“So, your brother’s coming over eh? Will he sleep here then?” Hitsugaya asked, assisting Rukia with the food. “Unfortunately, no. He’s just going to drop by; he’s really coming here because of business. But you know I cannot be picky with small visits from my only family member.” Rukia sighed.

“What does your brother do anyway?” Hisagi stood up and washed the glass he used for the shake.

“He’s CEO of a computer company. They make kinds of programs for different companies. Their primary targets are corporations who want to have their own personalized database.” Rukia smiled.

“That’s big. Aniki must be such a rich, rich guy.” Ichigo butt in.

“Oh, I wouldn’t call it rich. We’re just basically normal, him and I.” The Raven haired girl placed the pot over the stove.

Suddenly, Ichigo’s cellphone rang.

“What?” He answered. “Now? But… Alright, alright, you don’t have to sing it to me, geez.”

Hisagi looked over to him. “What is it?”

“Urahara wants us to go over to studio 9. The sponsors are there to talk with us about next, next week’s gig.” Ichigo scoffed.

“Oh, then I guess lunch here is postponed. Too bad, oh well, I get to save on some ingredients.” Rukia chuckled, while the others laughed nervously, such a blunt woman.

“We’re very sorry Rukia, perhaps next time.” Hitsugaya waved and then went towards the door, Hisagi and Chad following behind as they said their goodbyes.

“Geez, I was looking forward to eating here.” Ichigo mumbled.

“Get out, I finally had a reason to save food for days to come, I don’t need you to gulp it all down in one serving you glutton.” Rukia frowned.

“Oh hey, woman, at least I had the decency to actually try your cooking—that I think sucks so bad, I’d die.” Ichigo gagged.

“Piss off, how would you know? I bet you don’t even know how to cook.”

“And how would you know that?”

“By looking at you.”

“Fuck off.”

“Tsk, such a nice thing to say to a woman.”

“You’re not a woman, you’re a midget.”

“Are you going to leave or not?”

“You actually want me to leave? How cruel are you?”

“Are you forgetting our conditions? That’s your job we’re talking about now move! Scat!”

Ichigo scoffed and then turned away. “I’ll be back.” He glanced back at Rukia.

Rukia smiled and closed the door after Ichigo had stepped out. “You always are.” She shook her head in disbelief.

---------------------------------------------

“BYAKUYA!” Rukia bellowed almost excitedly.

A week after Byakuya had finally arrived in Japan, and Rukia had convinced him that she will go and pick him up at the airport.

“Rukia.” He quietly said and observed his little sister. She had grown quite thin but not in a bad way, perhaps the stress of her manga making is behind all that. But he can’t help but marvel at how light and happy his sister’s face was. Perhaps staying here wasn’t a bad idea after all, and to think he had been worried about her.

He knew that Rukia had moved out of their Aunt’s place, and he has yet to see the place where she now resides. But before all that, he told her they would go and visit Hinamori and Unohana first to perhaps, say thank you and to see how well they are doing now.

---------------------------------

“Rukia is actually doing well these days; she has been able to do things on her own now without our help.” Unohana proudly said as she poured some tea for her nephew. “That is good to hear Auntie, and I hope you are all doing well too. To be frank, I am quite excited to see you again.” Byakuya sipped on to some of his tea.

“Same here, you have grown to be quite a handsome and responsible young man, Rukia is lucky to have you around.” Unohana smiled.

Hinamori whispered over to Rukia, “Is he really serious? Excited? He’s more of like stoic… is he always that stoned faced?”

Rukia could only laugh silently. “Yes he’s serious, in fact, he’s quite delighted to meet you. Brother isn’t really the type to show much emotion, but if you really want to know what he really feels, you have to look in his eyes.”

Hinamori nodded and turned to look at Byakuya.

And Rukia was right.

------------------------------

“Are you sure this is the right place Rukia?” Byakuya deadpanned.

“Yes it is, now come on, stop looking at it like it’s a dead cat on the street. You’ll change your mind once you see the inside.” Rukia fidgeted with her house keys.

She opened the door with much delight and added a ‘TADAA’ to it.

Byakuya still deadpanned.

“What do you think?” Rukia asked.

“It’s nice but, I don’t approve.”

“What? No way, you said it’s nice.”

“What will you do if this thing collapses?”

“I’ll just leave.”

“You’ll wait for that to happen then?”

“Geez, Byakuya, look, I thought you said you wanted me to do things on my own from now on? I’m doing it so could you at least please..”

“I’ll send you money for a better one.”

“No, please, no… don’t even think about it. I’m trying to at least, learn from all of these… and…”

“Rukia?” A new voice came cutting off Rukia, Byakuya’s eyebrow’s raised and his eyes narrowed. “Who’s there?”

Rukia slapped her forehead. “I-Ichigo! What are you doing here?”

Ichigo frowned. “What the hell do you think? I thought we would have sushi today, I brought some, Hisagi and the others are on their way and… hellooo, who’s this?” Ichigo went in and pointed towards Byakuya.

Rukia wanted to waste Ichigo then and there but fought the urge to do so. Of all the time he goes, it just had to be today. Rukia grinned forcefully and turned to look at Ichigo. “I did tell you that my brother was coming right?”

Ichigo deadpanned a bit and then snapped his fingers. “Oh right! Yeah,” He extended his hand over to Byakuya. “The name’s Ichigo Kurosaki, I’m a friend of Rukia.” He introduced himself nervously, seeing that the man looked like he wanted to kill—just for fun.

Byakuya just stared at the carrot top’s hand and answered. “Kuchiki Byakuya, Rukia’s brother. And what might you be doing here?”

The carrot top frowned, what an obnoxious man! He grinned and resisted the urge to stomp his feet on the man’s face. “Uh well, we usually have a small get together here at Rukia’s place.”

“By ‘WE’, meaning…” Byakuya looked at Ichigo sideways.

“Uhm, the band? Who else would there be?”

“Ah,” Byakuya came to a realization. “So, this is the famous Shinigami your friend Orihime had told me about eh, Rukia?”

“Ah… uhm… yeah…” Rukia stammered she didn’t like the tone Byakuya is giving now.

“The one who you have been constantly hanging out with, I see, all boys eh Rukia?” Byakuya came again, ignoring Ichigo.

“Oi, hey, what are you implying?” Ichigo inquired.

“Nothing, I just find it all suspicious that you are acting too friendly with my little sister despite her being new here.”

“Wha—What the he—.” Ichigo was cut off.

“Ichigo! Uhm, no Byakuya you see, Ichigo and his friends, are really nice, they are a good lot, and I ask them to come over sometimes. They are my good friends Byakuya.” Rukia looked at her brother straight in the eye.

“Fine then, anyway, I’ll be going on to my meeting this afternoon. I’ll be back at around 6 pm, just in time to have dinner; just you and me before I fly back home.” The stoic faced man came before giving Rukia a kiss on the cheek and then left. “See you later then Byakuya.” Rukia waved.

As soon as the door closed, the two sighed in relief.

“Oi, what was that about? Your brother was like…. Scary shit.” Ichigo plopped down on the floor cushion.

“He is not! He’s just, worried about me.” Rukia pouted and did the same.

“Feh, if anyone here should be worried, that would be me, since well, you always look like you want to waste me.”

“I have various reasons. Anyway, where are the others?”

“They went out to buy some alcohol, Hisagi likes to drink. But I told him to forget about it since dear old brother might kill us if he thinks we’re trying to get you drunk you or something. He doesn’t look like he’s going to believe me even if I tell him I don’t drink.”

“Oi, hey, stop saying that about my brother. He’s got such good intentions!”

“yeah, yeah, whatever, I still say he’s scary.”

---------------------------------

Senna is not happy, not happy at all.

Ever since Kiyone had cut all connections with her, her projects slowly diminished and she doesn’t like it one bit.

The other thing that irritates her is this girl, who subbed for her that time she decided to ditch the photo shoot. It was her fault really, but she thought that the group won’t make it without her. Tough luck, Kiyone found someone else to do her job.

And to think said girl even dare lay a finger—body over her Ichigo! Kiyone and the others will pay for this, she has been told that she won’t have any intimate shoots with the carrot top, and she literally fumed when she saw the girl and Ichigo’s picture.

Who the hell is she?

Well Ichigo did answer that in the press conference. He said she was their friend, and Senna didn’t like the way his face soften when he mentioned her. There was something amiss and she has to put a stop to it.

“Lydia! Call my agent! I need to get back up on the spotlight! I don’t care if Kiyone dumped me; there are others out there who still want me!” She almost shrieked, as she stood up and dusted her 200,000 dollar fur coat.

Said secretary scampered off towards the telephone. Senna shall have her revenge alright, but first, she needs to do something about a certain leech clinging on to her precious Ichigo.

---------------------------

“Your brother’s here?” Hitsugaya bit on to some tamago. Rukia nodded and poured some more tea on their cups. Hisagi sulked, grumbling about not being able to drink nice rum on a good afternoon.

“He’s just here for business, so he decided to drop by and see me. He’d be coming home later tonight.” The Raven haired girl leaned on to some pillows behind her.

“That’s nice. I’m glad you’re happy Rukia.” Chad smiled, and Rukia offered a thanks.

“Che, you should have seen her stone faced brother, it was like intimidating and at the same time, pisses me off. He looks so suspicious of everything.” Ichigo scoffed.

“Well, with you, everything could be suspicious.” Hisagi finally lightened up seeing that he can have fun teasing Ichigo anyway.

“Shut up. I don’t need you stupid remarks.” The carrot top spat back.

“Stop saying things about my brother. It’s your fault he looked at you like that, you were like, impolite and everything.” Rukia frowned and stuck out her tongue.

“Geez, what would you want me to do? Curtsy and say: It’s a pleasure to meet you, your highness?” Ichigo glared and stuck out his tongue too, indicating that he didn’t like that idea.

“That’s a good one; I would like to have that on tape if that happens.” Hisagi chuckled and gobbled up to some more sushi. “Hey, hey, don’t be such a glutton!” Hitsugaya cried out and slapped his hand, preventing the tattoo faced man into getting more than he can handle.

“So, what are you guys going to do after this?” Rukia ignored Ichigo and turned to look at Chad’s direction.

“We’re going back to the studio for rehearsal.” The gentle giant answered with a smile.

“Oh, then is Kaien going to be there?” Rukia eagerly asked.

“Nope, Hitsugaya is going to do the beats in his keyboard. This prodigy could do anything anyway.” Hisagi cheered and then turned to look at Ichigo with sly eyes.

The carrot top grumbled in his seat. ‘Why would you want to know about Kaien anyway? He’s not part of the band…”

“He’s your friend isn’t he?” Rukia raised an eyebrow. “He’s still not part of the band.” Ichigo grumbled back.

“You’re cruel; he’s helped you so many times already.”

“Yeah so? Why do you care anyway? You’ve got some kind of crus—.”

Hisagi went in between the two. “Alright, that’s enough; you’re just starting a pointless fight. Anyway, sorry Rukia-chan. Kaien’s not going to be there, and Ichigo, I think that’s none of your business.”

“Screw you. It’s not like I care.” Ichigo grumbled.

“I understand; anyway, if you do see him, please give this to him. He asked me one time to put some designs on his sticks. I just finished with it.” Rukia handed to then a pair of colorful drum sticks, everyone gaped at it.

“Oh wow Rukia, by any chance, could you like design my guitar too?” Hisagi exclaimed, Hitsugaya scampered in front of him. “Me too Rukia, that is if you’re not busy.” Chad nodded too, indicating he would also want one.

“S-sure… why not?”

“yay!” Hisagi cheered. “Well that’s it then, anyway, we really should be going now. You have to rest and prepare some dinner for dear old brother.”

“Right. See ya guys, good luck with the rehearsals.” Rukia waved.

“Oi midget.” Ichigo was the last to come out.

“Don’t worry; I know you want one on your guitar too.” Rukia smirked, not looking at Ichigo.

Ichigo blushed and then grumbled. “Che, Whatever. I’m going.” He placed his hands in his pockets and then left.

----------------------------------

Night time came, at exactly 6pm, Byakuya stopped over for dinner at Rukia’s place.

Rukia did a fine job with tonight’s food actually, when years ago, she really had no clue on how to cook. When she started living on her own, way back then, she thought that she should force herself to learn cooking so she could survive. So far, everything is going well and she seems mighty improving, Byakuya noted.

“I’m glad you are happy and doing well here Rukia.” Byakuya initiated the conversation.

“Yeah, it’s really nice here once I get the hang of it. And Ichigo and the others are quite helpful along with Auntie and Hinamori.”

“I’m glad you found yourself good friends. But I hope they won’t put you into any trouble.” Byakuya coughed.

Rukia nodded. “They don’t Brother. Anyway, if you want to know about my job, I’m doing well now.”

“I can see that. Your friend Orihime is telling me how you are doing. I’m glad you are able to achieve piece by piece of your dream.”

“Thank you brother.” Rukia smiled, grateful that at least Orihime hadn’t told his brother about the modeling thing. Back then when he met Ichigo, she thought he knew about it that’s why he was rather strict looking and talking to the carrot top. But then again, Byakuya has always been like that. You can’t tell when he’s serious or not, Rukia has been able to decipher some things out of him, but she’s not even halfway into understanding her noble brother.

Dinner went by wonderfully. The siblings talked about their lives at different places and Rukia missed everything about her brother and home.

Byakuya then put on his shoes and kissed Rukia on the forehead. “Take care of yourself Rukia. If you have any problems, don’t hesitate to call me immediately. Even though you have won today’s argument with your stubborn determination, I’m still not backing out on my offer for you to find a new place and me sending money for it. I guess I’ll be going now. I’ll mail you when I get home.”

“Right thanks a lot. Be careful brother.” Rukia smiled.

“I’ll be back after a week or two. I still have some business to attend to here.”

“Oh, if that’s the case, could you bring Renji with you?”

“I’ll try.”

“Thank you aniki.”

“Well then, I’ll be off.” Byakuya opened the door and stopped. “Oh, and Rukia…”

Rukia turned to look at her brother, his back still facing the petite young woman. “Yes?”

Byakuya coughed and then continued. “As much as I like seeing you all pretty, I don’t think I approve of you modeling. It just doesn’t fit your artistic personality.”

Needless to say, Rukia paled. Byakuya-nii knows! Shit! “Uh….” was all that came from her mouth.

“Tell your friend Kurosaki, goodbye for me, and he’d better behave or else...” Byakuya turned, leaving Rukia stunned in her spot. “Very well then, I’ll be off.”

Byakuya wasn’t that all ignorant of course, he has internet, he checks the news, he’s seen the picture and the rumors, and was glad the carrot top did something about it, because if he didn’t, he’d make his trip worthwhile by killing the man who almost defiled his sister in such a scandalous pose.

He admitted though, that his sister was beautiful in that image. But he didn’t want a repeat of that, especially when it involves said citrus head.

Byakuya is on the lookout; may all the Gods and Godessess have mercy on Ichigo’ soul.