{fic} las noches high - chapter twenty-four
Title: Las Noches High - chapter twenty-four
Author/Artist: taintedkibou
Pairing/Characters: Grimmjow/Ichigo
Rating: PG-15
Genre: AU; high school
Disclaimer: I own the mangas that I purchased, but Kubo owns the characters.
Summary/Notes: Forced to transfer from school to school because of something he has no control over, Kurosaki Ichigo resigns himself to expulsion, only to find out he has one last choice: attend Las Noches High.
[ chapter one ] [ chapter two ] [ chapter three ] [ chapter four ] [ chapter five ] [ chapter six ] [ chapter seven ] [ chapter eight ] [ chapter nine ] [ chapter ten ] [ chapter eleven ] [ chapter twelve ] [ chapter thirteen ] [ chapter fourteen ] [ chapter fifteen ] [ chapter sixteen ] [ chapter seventeen ] [ chapter eighteen ] [ chapter nineteen ] [ chapter twenty ] [ chapter twenty-one ] [ chapter twenty-two ] [ chapter twenty-three ]
Ichigo dragged his pillow off his face, groaning loudly. There had been no alcohol whatsoever last night, but his head was still pounding. The karaoke session had been the most intense thus far. Putting Di Roy and Nel together for a duet was not his best or wisest decision. They had drawn quite a crowd, but Ichigo was the unfortunate one trapped between them. Nel’s song choices had been interesting, to say the least. The lyrics still rattled around in his head, so Ichigo made a mental note to check the Internet to see if some of her songs sung actually existed. He had also belted out a few bars; less emphasis on ‘belted’.
The pillow was dragged back over his face to muffle another groan before being yanked away and tossed to the foot of the bed. Ichigo glared sleepily up at the ceiling of his dorm room, forcing himself to begin his preparation for school. The hot shower was relaxing, especially with the winter winds and chills already rolling in.
Ichigo laid his uniform out on the well made bed, taking a seat behind the laptop he’d powered on while clad only in a pair of dark gray boxer briefs and white socks. Tensa Zangetsu sat across his bare thighs as he checked for any missed e-mails from his friends in Karakura. He smiled, bypassing the all-caps subject line of “I MISS YOU”-only Keigo. Finding nothing new, Ichigo powered down his laptop, carefully closing it, and replaced the sword on its stand so he could finish dressing.
+ + +
Here today, gone tomorrow-Grimmjow was once again missing from homeroom. Ichigo settled into his seat with a sigh, leaning back to stare over his shoulder and out of the window. He assumed his actions yesterday would have definitely brought Grimmjow to class-just so the Student Council VP could try to intimidate him-but no such luck.
Little did he know, Grimmjow was on the receiving end of a professional intimidator
+
“Yer startin’ ta piss me off. Say somethin’ smart’ an’ I’ll cut yer tongue out.”
Grimmjow closed his mouth, glaring at the floor of the empty office where he sat. It was still well-furnished. Gin had all but tied him up and dragged him through the hallways to reach it, securing them a bit more privacy.
The Vice Principal stopped pacing long enough to glare down at the blue-haired teen. “I don’ understand ya. He friggin’ threw himself at ya, an’ ya brush him off! Did ya know he wanted ta go ta University here?” Grimmjow’s head snapped up, eyes wide. Gin chuckled sarcastically, taking a seat at the edge of his desk. Feet crossed at the ankles, he idly swung his legs back and forth. “Didn’ know, huh? Boo-hoo for ya ‘cause now, he changed his min’. All yer shovin’ him away-what’s it good fer now?!”
Grimmjow had never seen the Vice Principal without a smile on his face, be it one of pleasure or one reflecting his sadistic ways. The narrow face was currently twisted in an angry sneer that was directed at the Student Council member.
“Yer gonna explode if ya keep dis up,” Gin sighed, lowering his head so his bangs hid the slits of his closed eyes. “I don’ wanna pick up da pieces. Lulu likes ya because he likes ya. He cares more for da boy, so ya won’ fin’ much help there. Humpty won’ be put t’gether again.”
Grimmjow scoffed and began rising from the single chair. Before his knees could even straighten, Gin was off the desk and in front of him. Bony fingers curled over his shoulder, forcing the third year back into the chair.
“I didn’ say ya could leave.” Gin smiled sweetly. “If ya hurt dat boy anymore, ya won’ hafta worry ‘bout Aizen no more. Tell ‘im da truth. Love ‘im. Fuck ‘im if ya hafta.” His lips spread wider at the shock in the depth of the wide, sky blue eyes. “Ya know ya wan’ ta. Even he wants ya ta. Do it. Make ‘im happy. We’ll all be happy.” Grimmjow tried not to grimace at the fingers digging into his shoulder. The curved slits of Gin’s closed eyes parted, revealing icy blue irises. “Are we… clear?”
Grimmjow nodded slowly.
“Good!” Gin laughed, his closed eyes arching into curves as his wide grin returned. He removed his hand from Grimmjow’s shoulder. “Now, get back ta class. We can’t have ya missin’ too much wit’ finals right ‘round da corner.”
Grimmjow was a little reluctant to stand the second time around, but he was able to make it to the door and out into the hall. He unconsciously rubbed the shoulder Ichimaru all but crushed in a surprisingly strong grip. With his thoughts wrapped around the Vice Principal and the horrors that lay in store for him if he pissed him off anymore, Grimmjow returned to his homeroom class.
Ichigo grinned up at the latecomer, unfazed by the scowl he received in return. He waited until the other had taken a seat before questioning him, but not on his tardiness. “Wanna eat lunch with me, Di Roy, and Inoue?”
Had it ended with Di Roy, Grimmjow would have turned him down without the use of obscenities. But that woman would be there “Hell no,” he scoffed, pulling out his notebook from his school case.
“What if I say it was just me?”
Grimmjow’s pen snapped in half from the force he gripped it with before it even left his school case. He dropped the pieces to the bottom of the bag, never removing his hand as he was positive it was covered in ink. He glared at the orange-haired teen beside him. “The answer’s still the same. You have your friends to keep you company. I want nothin’ to do with you.”
“That’s a lie,” Ichigo laughed sarcastically.
The instructor at the front of the classroom cleared his throat, bringing their conversation to an end. Grimmjow stood from his seat, still attempting to hide his dirtied hand. Ulquiorra glanced back at their corner for a brief second before turning back around.
The Student Council VP left the classroom he’d only just entered no more than five minutes prior; the next stop was the restroom. His hand beneath the faucet that spewed hot water, the lathered soap gathered on his hands was turning a dark color from the blue ink that covered his fingers and palm. ‘Fuck, fuck, fuck…,’ “Fuck!” he snarled out loud, fisting his hands to smash them against the mirror in front of him. Crimson slowly trickled down the broken glass that hadn’t fallen from the sudden attack. He wouldn’t be able to hold on much longer.
+ + +
Grimmjow’s behavior pushed to the back of his mind, Ichigo left the classroom when beckoned by a blond second year. Lunch with Di Roy was short this time around, but somewhat sweet. As always, it was filled with laughter. Ichigo decided to do a quick round of the halls before it was off to cram school. His main duty was to check on Baraggan’s classes. Alas, the older faculty member still had yet to return.
The timid girl he had scared before followed him out into the hall. “Kurosaki…senpai.” Ichigo glared over his shoulder. She wrung her hands together, glancing down at the floor. “Harribel-san… I heard that she’s also taking a leave of absence.”
“There’re three more instructors to look after the classes,” Ichigo reminded her.
“Oh.” The second year smiled sheepishly. “Right. Sorry, senpai.”
“Go back to class,” Ichigo sighed, facing forward. “And try to stay out of trouble.”
“Hai!” The young girl straightened up after bowing deeply, eyes filled with admiration following the Student Disciplinary leader. Once Ichigo had disappeared, she hurried back into the teacher-less classroom, giggling excitedly as her friends crowded around her. “He’s… not as bad as everyone makes him out to be. He’s probably the only person in this school… that cares.”
+ + +
Ichigo glared out of the sedan window as Shawlong drove him to cram school. The saying of “only idiots don’t get sick” didn’t apply to the inhabitants of Las Noches. His brows dipped even lower. There was something other than an epidemic spreading through the halls of Las Noches High.
`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`
On Friday, Ichigo walked out of the gymnasium when Starrk wasn’t seen in his usual corner, stretched out on the bottom bleacher. The students milled around, aimlessly chatting, but there was one person that paid attention to him. From between the group of students that mostly stood taller than him, Di Roy watched the orange head disappear through the doors. This time, he had no intention of giving chase.
Ichigo threw open the door to Ichimaru’s office.
Gin smiled sweetly, raising his steepled hands to his face. “Kurosaki-kun. What brings ya here… so abruptly?”
“There are too many sick teachers. The old man, the lazy one, and Tia are a few that I’ve noticed.”
“Tia?” Gin laughed, momentarily sidetracked. He had never heard anyone address their lead swim instructor as that.
“It’s easier to remember, but that’s beside the point!” Ichigo slammed a hand down on the large desk. Gin’s smile widened behind his hands. “Is there a slow spread of influenza that I should be concerned about?”
Gin glanced toward the door that joined Principal and Vice Principal’s office. Ichigo spun and found Aizen smiling at him. He slid his hands into the pockets of his gakuran jacket, thumbs hooked over the outside. “Aizen…san.”
“You seem upset about something, Kurosaki-kun,” Aizen’s smile widened. “Do you wish to talk about it?”
Ichigo glanced back at the silver-haired man, but Gin’s close-eyed ‘mask’ revealed nothing. “Not… really,” he muttered.
“Are you certain?”
Ichigo nodded his head and bowed stiffly to the brown-haired man. “I’ll be on my way.” He strolled across the floor, exiting far more quietly than he had entered.
Once the door closed, the high arches of the Vice Principal’s eyes dipped as his smile died. “Aizen. Ya promisd me.”
“I have no use for your body now,” Aizen stated, his tone cold. The boy he sought had just walked through the door he continued to stare at. Gin waited until he was alone before sending a single-worded SMS message.
* * * * *
Grimmjow was being harassed. This was the conclusion he deduced from the text that contained just his name. グリムジョー was all it read; a warning. That woman had talked down to him and Gin continued to threaten him. Di Roy and the damn nurse were against him. Even Shawlong displayed signs that told him he was changing sides. Grimmjow stared at the characters for his name once again before snapping his cell phone shut. How had things changed so badly from then?
+ + +
The black sedan parked and three of its four doors opened almost simultaneously. A grinning Di Roy Rinker bounded around to the front of the vehicle, but the long fingers of Shawlong Qufang hooked into the back of his sweater kept him from jumping onto the hood. The blond pouted up at the man, but both glanced towards the passenger side of the car after hearing the low, soft-spoken statement.
“There he is.” Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez grinned, starting across the street. Di Roy wanted to follow, but Shawlong kept a firm grip on him.
Suspended, with nothing to do, Ichigo had offered to go shopping with Karin, for Yuzu. The hood of Grimmjow’s jacket was up, covering his head, hiding his electric-blue hair from sight; he didn’t want to leave behind any distinguishing features that would jog the boy’s memory once they officially met. Ichigo switched places with his sister after noticing the newcomer, keeping her on the inside. Grimmjow passed the siblings, his grin widening and blood boiling as those fiery brown eyes swept over him for a split second. Maybe if he had had more time to focus, he could have sensed what Aizen wanted the child for, but his reasons for want were far different.
“Ichi-nii?”
Ichigo gave his sister his undivided attention and their conversation resumed.
With his back turned, Grimmjow missed the quick glance the orange-haired teen threw over his shoulder in his direction one final time. He disappeared around the corner, letting his hood fall away after leaning against the large wall that housed off buildings, and began laughing softly. Grimmjow wanted no other equal than the one his soul had unconsciously chosen.
Shawlong had finally released the child and Di Roy came running over. “Senpai. Do you think he’ll make it at Las Noches?”
Grimmjow laughed even louder, placing a hand atop the white-blond crown. “He’ll definitely make it.”
* * * * *
Ichigo had been in the middle of trying-trying, and failing-to coax answers out of Aaroniero when the door to the infirmary slid open. Aaroniero welcomed the distraction. “Grimmjow-kun. Did you come to collect your pupil? It’s Friday and he should be on his way to his martial arts practice.”
Ichigo scowled after glancing over his shoulder. Grimmjow wore a similar expression, ignoring the brunet’s question. He reached the chair at the side of the desk where Ichigo sat and reached down, roughly snatching Ichigo’s wrist. He pulled him up out of his seat and proceeded to drag him out of the nurse’s office.
Aaroniero waved until his door was slammed shut. “Finally,” he sighed, collapsing against the back of his rolling, swivel chair. A grin spread across his face and he spun a few times.
Shawlong usually waited outside for him, even on club days, but the tall ebony-haired man was no where to be found. Ichigo glared at the back of Grimmjow’s head, wondering if it was his doing. “What the hell do you want?” he snapped, trying to jerk his arm free of the bruising grip. Grimmjow remained silent and proceeded to drag Ichigo outside. The black sedan was missing from the curb. ‘He did do something.’
Grimmjow released him only after they arrived at the park Ichigo usually frequented with Nel and Bawabawa. He would have taken him to the area where he’d first found the kitten, but it was still too close to the school.
Ichigo headed for the swings, dropping into the seat so roughly, the chains holding it to the frame rattled. “What do you want…?” he repeated, his tone more annoyed than angry now.
Grimmjow stared at the second swing as though it was some otherworldly abomination before slowly lowering himself into the seat. Folding his hands between his thighs, he glared at the sand beneath his feet. “You asked why-”
“You already rejected me, Grimmjow. I don’t need a detailed explanation as to why,” Ichigo muttered. He was busy. There was investigating to be done if he wanted to find out exactly what illegal actions were taking place behind these walls. With a sigh, Ichigo began to rise. “I’m leavin-”
“Shut up when people are talking!”
Ichigo gritted his teeth, fingers tightening around the hard metal coils, and fell back into the swing seat.
The martial arts club manager exhaled deeply. “You probably don’t remember what I told you when you forced your way into my room to ask for my help during finals, but… it was the truth. We are orphans that nobody wanted. Delinquents that society rejected. Some of us… were abandoned in the hospitals we were born in. The nurses and doctor took pity on me and named me. They told me this after I was old enough to understand.” Grimmjow pushed himself backwards in the swing, letting gravity pull him forward once more. Ichigo remained motionless. “When society… outside these walls was tired of us wreaking havoc, he took us in after defecting from Shinou.”
Brown eyes widening, Ichigo sat forward, almost forgetting his current location. His stumble and recovery made Grimmjow smirk. “Aizen taught at Shinou? I… never saw anything. Kaien-I knew about him, but… Do you know… why?” Ichigo gripped the metal chains even tighter.
“No, but this story ain’t ‘bout Shinou. If I had to assume, it was probably over what he gets away with behind these walls of Shinou. We’re... walking experiments. The lucky ones.” Grimmjow glared at the sand beneath his feet, remembering the dark room and the needle he had more than welcomed. Life before that was a blur of colors and pain.
“It’s not… anything… perverse, in that sense, is it?”
“No!” Ichigo did fall out of his swing then, after being clouted in the head by the other. Grimmjow let gravity pull him back to his side, and he exhaled deeply. “If you’re thinking about what you see in movies, it’s none of that. We’re subjects of various… field experiments, but nothing that involves test tubes or drugs. We gather information and he brings us in to collect. This time…” Grimmjow scowled.
“We...? Us?” Ichigo prodded.
Grimmjow turned his scowl toward to the teen that had remained seated on the sand. “You really don’t learn anything, do you? Batch experiments usually provide the best results. Starrk and Lilynette were a pair.”
Ichigo’s eyes widened. ‘Lilynette?’
“Baraggan, Harribel, Ulquiorra… myself. Even Nnoitora and Szayel Aporro.”
Ichigo shifted his position, drawing his knees up to his chest, loosely wrapping his arms around them. “So… that Saturday when I saw Szayel Aporro…” A visible shudder ran through his body after mentioning the name of the youngest Granz brother. “Because he was being transferred…?”
“Yeah, that’s right. The old man Baraggan volunteered himself, but it might be his last time. If you were smart, you’d have noticed that you’ve become a main and very important factor. You’ve been in contact with all of us.”
Ichigo lowered his knees, shifting to sit in a seiza position, hands fisted on top his thighs. “Then… Nel? Will he go after Nel?”
Grimmjow smirked. “You know she has a tattoo, right? During her years in high school, she was used to provide results. Nnoitora got jealous because Aizen valued her more than he did him, and well… you know the rest of that story. That dragon on her back covers up the mark given to her by Aizen.”
“What…? Why is he doing all of this?”
Ichigo looked so expectant, but Grimmjow had no answer to the question. “I can’t tell you what, because… I don’t really know myself. I think he’s grown tired of us, as a batch. Maybe… maybe he’ll stop now.” That was another lie. Grimmjow knew Aizen was still experimenting. There would be two more disappearances before he went after what he’d been seeking for so long. He exhaled sharply. “I’ll tell you this: Aizen… is interested in… the uniqueness of your body.” It was the only term he could think of at the moment. “He’s basically laid you out on a silver platter and he wants to see who takes the bait. Those that bite are… taken care of.”
Ichigo decided to take another chance. He also wanted to change the subject. “Is that why… you don’t want to accept my feelings?”
Grimmjow’s scowl returned and he looked away to glare down at his feet. “Several of us were sent to Karakura after the principal contacted the school. Ulquiorra was sent for a different reason than myself. I didn’t really have permission, and went for personal gain, to see what new toy we were getting. Di Roy came with me.” He glanced at the other, finding his lips involuntarily creeping into a smirk after noticing the eager look on Ichigo’s face for him to finish the story. “You were still suspended, so it was by chance that I managed to catch a glimpse of you.”
Ichigo knew his last days weren’t spent in school, and wondered if Grimmjow had seen him the day Yoruichi picked him and Ishida up on the curb.
“I’ve wanted you since then.”
Ichigo’s eyes widened at the statement. Grimmjow smirked, taking notice of how the eagerness turned into uneasiness. A blush crept across Ichigo's face. “I thought that was what you wanted to hear, shinigami. You confessed first.”
“Yeah, but… If you wanted me so badly, how do you explain your behavior?” ‘Why did you make me suffer for so long…?’
“I’m a good actor, though my patience was starting to wear thin… very thin. There was also the fact that no one was allowed to get remotely close to you or that woman.”
Ichigo lowered his head. “What about Luppi? Was he taken care of?”
Grimmjow was off the swing and on the sand in front of Ichigo, his fingers almost painfully gripping the other’s jaw. “Don’t feel sympathy for that bastard. He was the first one that broke the rule Aizen set. He drugged you with every intention of violating you. Luppi touched what was mine-he’s always been after what was mine. He even wanted my spot on the Student Council. I lost it… He’s not dead, but… as you can see, he never returned to school.” Grimmjow had placed the brunet into a coma.
“I’m sure he didn’t deserve it,” Ichigo mumbled. He grimaced as the fingers on his face tightened their grasp.
“Why can’t you understand?! If Shawlong hadn’t-”
“Shawlong?” Ichigo stressed. “What does my driver have to do with this?”
“He works under me. I’m the one that ordered him to be your driver. I told you… you were mine. Di Roy, Shawlong… Edrad.”
Ichigo’s eyes widened. “My supervisor at Adjuchas Grocer?”
“Nakeem,” Grimmjow continued.
“The name should probably sound familiar…” Ichigo mumbled.
“He works at the cram school. His girlfriend gave birth not too long before you started, so he’s taking time off.”
Ichigo snatched his face free of the bruising hold that still kept him, reflexively flexing his jaw. “What the hell, Grimmjow? Then… Ichimaru…? He was in on everything. Why…?”
Grimmjow rolled his eyes with a frustrated growl. He reached out, flicking Ichigo in the forehead. “So fuckin’ slow! They’re there for your protection! Gin is more concerned and worried about your well-being, whereas, I just don’t want people touchin’ what’s mine! Do you understand, shinigami? I couldn’t approach you the way you want, but you’ve always, been, mine.” Each word was dutifully stressed.
Ichigo rubbed the stinging spot on his forehead, huffing out a sigh. It was too much information to take in all at once, but his heart had heard what it needed to hear; the brain’s logic was being denied. He reached out, taking the hand that had caused much damage to his face. Despite everything he had just been told, if he tried again, would he still be pushed away?
Grimmjow’s eyes narrowed, but he didn’t pull away. Fuck the rules. ‘Ulquiorra broke them first,’ he told himself before the gap disappeared between them, his mouth covering Ichigo’s. Ichigo promptly melted into the kiss, releasing Grimmjow’s hand to curl his own fingers into the soft, silky blue hair. Grimmjow panted harshly against Ichigo’s lips, “Every time you got close to me... I wanted to fuck you into the ground.”
This time, it was no dream.
Ichigo was Grimmjow’s drug; Grimmjow was his. Ichigo’s response was to tilt his head, nibbling Grimmjow's bottom lip before his tongue darted out. The muscle was captured and sucked into Grimmjow’s mouth. Ichigo was aware of the sand that crept into his shirt, but the pleasure he felt weighed more heavily on all his senses. He actually whimpered when Grimmjow pulled away, but heard the reason why after the blood stopped pounding in his ears. “Bawa...bawa,” he breathed.
Grimmjow stood, pulling Ichigo back onto his feet. He was not popular with dogs, and the feeling was mutual.
Ichigo had barely steadied himself when he was bowled over. Laughing, he held the Doberman’s muzzle away from his face. “Stop…! You're gonna kill me!”
“Bawabawa! Ichigo!” Nel slowed before needing to skid to a halt, meeting Grimmjow’s glare with a wide, almost knowing smiling. “Grimmjow-kun.”
Grimmjow nodded his head in respect to the woman. He’d seen what she was capable of firsthand. Luckily, he hadn’t been on the receiving end, but he had also known about her and her prowess before meeting her in person. Her name was still posted in the trophy display case, bringing home first and gold in every track event and kendo event. He also knew of the deal made between her and Inoue. Where the younger girl couldn’t follow, Nel took over to ensure Ichigo’s safety. It was a big help, because he knew she actually had access to places Shawlong and Di Roy could never be.
Grimmjow sneered, reflexively backing away from the dog that sniffed at his hand. “Bawabawa’s friendly," Nel giggled, stepping up to scratch her pet behind the ear. He leaned into the touch, but resumed trying to get Grimmjow’s attention.
“Are you scared of dogs?” Ichigo questioned, seeing Grimmjow pull his hand away. He grinned when Bawabawa turned towards his voice.
“No,” Grimmjow scoffed. “I just… They don’t like me.” Bawabawa seemed to have understood. He was away from Ichigo in an instant and his front paws were on Grimmjow’s chest as he bestowed ‘kisses’ upon the Student Council VP. In his own way, he said, “I like you.” Grimmjow didn’t pull away, but he also didn’t look too amused. Ichigo whistled and the Doberman scurried to him.
“Sorry,” Nel mumbled with a pout. She shot a quick glance at Grimmjow, smiling from beneath her bangs, before turning back so she faced Ichigo. “He broke loose again. You should stay away from this park. Or… not... do certain things in this park.” Ichigo ducked his head while Grimmjow glared off to the side. “Bawabawa hasn’t seen you in ages! There’s no way he’s going to leave you alone now…”
“I can’t take you with me,” Ichigo sighed at the canine nibbling his fingers to gain his attention. ‘I also want to go back with Grimmjow.’
Bawabawa tilted his head, wide, round eyes blinking up at the orange-haired teen. He backed away, strutting back to Nel’s side. She reached down, scratching him behind his ear. “Ara? Well… since you came to me willingly, let’s go back, Bawabawa. Ichigo will see you another time.” Bawabawa responded with an obedient bark and began strutting back to Hueco Mundo. With an energetic wave, she jogged after the Doberman.
Ichigo glanced at Grimmjow, smiling shyly. “You attract dogs now, shinigami?” the blue-haired teen chuckled, walking over to stand beside the other.
“Shut up. Bawabawa's… Just shut up!”
The punch to Grimmjow's shoulder was a bit strong to be considered playful, but the VP took it all in stride. Grimmjow took Ichigo by the crook of his arm, tugging him back so he was at the perfect angle for a kiss. He could feel the smile on Ichigo’s lips, and when they separated, it was still there.
"Should we... go to practice?" Ichigo asked hesitantly, now worried about the cause and effect pattern that would happen if he ventured too close to others. "You could... make an appearance to cancel."
"Why would I cancel? You don't have to come if you don't want to. You already missed two days. Starting next week, we have to begin studying for finals."
"I'll show my face," Ichigo decided, not wanting to be separated now that he'd finally gotten his hands on his prize. Grimmjow accepted the decision with a nonchalant shrug of his shoulders. He nodded his head back to the school building and they set off together. Grimmjow's nonchalance melted away under the heat of his anger after they stepped into the dojo.
Ichigo headed for his locker, removing his jacket along the way. He opened the metal door, finding the hanger within to put away the article of clothing. The gi came out next and Ichigo began stripping out of the rest of his school uniform. Heads turned in his direction, lured by the pheromones that rolled off him in waves.
"Senpai-"
"Kurosaki-senpai-"
The second years glanced at each other, sharing an embarrassed grin before moving forward together to reach their orange-haired senpai.
Ichigo glanced over his bare shoulder and his eyes widened at the sea of excited faces staring back at him. Only Grimmjow wore a scowl, a look of death visible in his striking sky blue eyes. Ichigo carefully slipped his shirt back on, but more members of the martial arts club continued to advance. He stared pleadingly at the dojo manager and Grimmjow stepped in.
Grimmjow forced his way through the crowd, pushing students aside until he reached Ichigo. He yanked the gakuran jacket out and slammed the locker shut, pressing it against Ichigo's chest. "Go back to the dorm," he hissed.
"By... myself, like this?"
Ichigo’s hesitation was the key that had Grimmjow screaming out that practice was canceled. "Study for you damn finals so I can pick somebody worthy to take over for me when I graduate!"
Ichigo hadn't fully buttoned his jacket when his upper arm was grabbed and he was dragged out of the dojo. Ichigo grinned at the tight expression of anger Grimmjow wore. "I wonder if this was what Renji went through-"
"Who the fuck is Renji?" Grimmjow snarled.
Surprise was the first thing Ichigo experienced, after being grabbed roughly by the shoulders, but it quickly gave way to amusement. "You're so... jealous," he laughed. "Renji's from Shinou. We dated for a few months, but then he broke it off."
A blue eyebrow arched sharply. "Why?"
"Because of what just happened in there, I guess. My being with him caused a pheromone explosion and he didn't want me getting hurt…" Ichigo shook his head, unable to shrug his shoulders. “He never explained it to me, but that seems like the most logical answer.”
"He's a fool," Grimmjow scoffed.
Ichigo grinned. "We both agreed on that fact. You won't dump me, will you?" Grimmjow's expression turned blank; it surprised Ichigo, since he only ever knew the other to wear a frown. "Grimmjow?"
"No," Grimmjow finally responded. Maybe the last several months of countless ordeals had been necessary in order for him to realize that he had no intentions of letting go. "Even if I have to kill every fucker that looks your way-"
"You don't have to," Ichigo interjected with a nervous laugh. He could already see that future. A red carpet laid out before him, stained with the blood of millions; every squelching step would weigh heavily on his conscience. The biggest obstacle they now faced was Aizen and the dark truth hidden behind sterile white walls.
The black sedan remained missing after they stepped out of the school once again, but Ichigo didn't mind. What he did mind, was how short the walk to the dorms really were. It felt like mere seconds had passed and they were parting ways. Ichigo's hand lingered on his doorknob. He glanced to his left and found Grimmjow still stood in the hall, shoulder against his closed door. Ichigo smiled shyly. "Do you want to come over for... dinner? I should have enough for two." He'd gone a week without properly eating, so a decent meal was in order.
Grimmjow pulled himself away from the door, covering the few steps needed in order to reach the blushing orange-haired teen in easy strides. His hand covered Ichigo's, taking over the task of opening the door. He pulled Ichigo inside, closing the door behind them.
A solid minute couldn't have fully passed before the front door exploded and Nel burst into the room. "Ichig... Oh." Nel grinned slyly. "Am I... interrupting?" She didn't wait for a reply and hurried over to where the new couple stood, breaking them apart. "I know I just left, but… Ichigo! Donda-niichan brought these when he came to pick up Bawabawa, so I decided to share them with you as an apology, for… earlier."
Ichigo's blush had yet to fade away; Nel obviously knew about them and was trying her hardest to tease him into an early grave. It was Grimmjow that accepted and opened the container. "Mitarashi dango. Hnn," he muttered.
"You're welcome!" Nel giggled, easily able to recognize the teen's roundabout way of expressing gratitude. He'd come to her after taking care of Nnoitora and choked out a grumbled 'thanks'. "I'll leave you two alone now. Enjoy!" Nel gave Ichigo a quick squeeze. Grimmjow was too tall to be buried in her bosom, but she hugged him nonetheless. The door then swung shut, closing with a soft click.
"We can eat 'em after dinner," Ichigo suggested, taking the container from Grimmjow. He headed into the kitchen first. He would really miss the luxuries that came with Las Noches. There was no school, not even a private University, which would provide students with their own kitchen in each dorm room. The dango container was placed on the counter while Ichigo collected the items necessary for the quick meal he had planned. “Do you want tamagodon?”
“I want meat,” Grimmjow grumbled, standing in the kitchen’s doorway.
Ichigo closed the refrigerator door, glaring at the blue-haired figure. “Do you have any over by you? Or we can share one bowl.”
“I want meat,” Grimmjow repeated, his eyes narrowing. He reached into the pocket of his uniform slacks, removing his cell phone, never once breaking gazes with Ichigo. “I’m calling Shawlong so he can take us to Adjuchas.”
Ichigo headed for the box of dango while Grimmjow placed the call. He removed a skewer that contained four confectionary pieces, careful of the syrup they were covered with. A hand stalled his as he lifted the treat to his mouth and Grimmjow appeared in his peripheral vision. Ichigo’s hand was tilted so the skewer was pointed upright, allowing for easily removal of a dango by way of mouth. Grimmjow held it between his teeth, though, a playful look directed at the blushing orange-haired teen. Ichigo latched onto the other end, sinking his teeth in to separate it in two. Grimmjow’s hand curled around the back of his neck, trapping him in place. The dango was chewed, swallowed, and then their tongues met to savor its sweetness in the other’s mouth.
“I’ll never be able to make that donburi… if you keep this up,” Ichigo murmured after they separated.
Grimmjow grinned and stole another mitarashi dango before turning and heading back out of the kitchen. He lifted a hand. “Shawlong’s gonna be here soon. C’mon.” Ichigo bit off one of the two remaining dango before following, the skewer still in his hand.
+ + +
Grimmjow purchased the meat so that he would be able to enjoy a gyoudon bowl that wasn’t lacking. Ichigo watched him eat and told himself he would have to thank Yuzu for putting up with him and teaching him how to make his way around a kitchen… unlike their useless crybaby of a father. He also recited one of Yuzu’s code to his guest as he packed the empty dishes at the sink: “You must brush your teeth within ten minutes after a meal, or you won’t get your next meal.”
Grimmjow rolled his eyes, standing from the couch. He left to go back to his dorm, where his toothbrush was located, and Ichigo headed into his own bathroom. On his way back, he stopped off at Ulquiorra’s, dragging the spare futon out again.
“Congratulations,” the brunet stated softly before the VP could leave. “And good luck.”
“Same goes for you, doesn’t it?” Grimmjow replied, pulling the door shut with his free hand. The other held the rope that kept the mattress from unfurling. Less than a minute later, he brought it back, a wide grin splitting his face. Ulquiorra gave his head a subtle shake, returning to the book in hand.
Ichigo turned off the lights before climbing into the bed Grimmjow already inhabited. Just being this close was enough for him, so he kept to his side of the futon. Grimmjow also remained where he lay. The question that now plagued them both was: what next? The answer to that would arrive soon enough. For now, all they could do was enjoy their good fortune.
A/N: *peeks her head out of her hole* I… got a little domestic there at the end, but I couldn’t help eeeeeet! My Grimmjows always come out rough n’ tumble, but they always have a wi~ttle soft side. This one rough n’ tumbled enough, so he’s gonna get gropey. Are you gaiz happy they’re finally together? Yay? And don’t worry about the experimental, Aizen-related stuff. Foothold’s better now, so… I just hope his excuse is …suitable.
[ chapter twenty-five] [ chapter twenty-six] [ chapter twenty-seven] [ chapter twenty-eight] [ chapter twenty-nine] [ chapter thirty] [ chapter thirty-one] [ chapter thirty-two] [ chapter thirty-three]
Author/Artist: taintedkibou
Pairing/Characters: Grimmjow/Ichigo
Rating: PG-15
Genre: AU; high school
Disclaimer: I own the mangas that I purchased, but Kubo owns the characters.
Summary/Notes: Forced to transfer from school to school because of something he has no control over, Kurosaki Ichigo resigns himself to expulsion, only to find out he has one last choice: attend Las Noches High.
[ chapter one ] [ chapter two ] [ chapter three ] [ chapter four ] [ chapter five ] [ chapter six ] [ chapter seven ] [ chapter eight ] [ chapter nine ] [ chapter ten ] [ chapter eleven ] [ chapter twelve ] [ chapter thirteen ] [ chapter fourteen ] [ chapter fifteen ] [ chapter sixteen ] [ chapter seventeen ] [ chapter eighteen ] [ chapter nineteen ] [ chapter twenty ] [ chapter twenty-one ] [ chapter twenty-two ] [ chapter twenty-three ]
Ichigo dragged his pillow off his face, groaning loudly. There had been no alcohol whatsoever last night, but his head was still pounding. The karaoke session had been the most intense thus far. Putting Di Roy and Nel together for a duet was not his best or wisest decision. They had drawn quite a crowd, but Ichigo was the unfortunate one trapped between them. Nel’s song choices had been interesting, to say the least. The lyrics still rattled around in his head, so Ichigo made a mental note to check the Internet to see if some of her songs sung actually existed. He had also belted out a few bars; less emphasis on ‘belted’.
The pillow was dragged back over his face to muffle another groan before being yanked away and tossed to the foot of the bed. Ichigo glared sleepily up at the ceiling of his dorm room, forcing himself to begin his preparation for school. The hot shower was relaxing, especially with the winter winds and chills already rolling in.
Ichigo laid his uniform out on the well made bed, taking a seat behind the laptop he’d powered on while clad only in a pair of dark gray boxer briefs and white socks. Tensa Zangetsu sat across his bare thighs as he checked for any missed e-mails from his friends in Karakura. He smiled, bypassing the all-caps subject line of “I MISS YOU”-only Keigo. Finding nothing new, Ichigo powered down his laptop, carefully closing it, and replaced the sword on its stand so he could finish dressing.
+ + +
Here today, gone tomorrow-Grimmjow was once again missing from homeroom. Ichigo settled into his seat with a sigh, leaning back to stare over his shoulder and out of the window. He assumed his actions yesterday would have definitely brought Grimmjow to class-just so the Student Council VP could try to intimidate him-but no such luck.
Little did he know, Grimmjow was on the receiving end of a professional intimidator
+
“Yer startin’ ta piss me off. Say somethin’ smart’ an’ I’ll cut yer tongue out.”
Grimmjow closed his mouth, glaring at the floor of the empty office where he sat. It was still well-furnished. Gin had all but tied him up and dragged him through the hallways to reach it, securing them a bit more privacy.
The Vice Principal stopped pacing long enough to glare down at the blue-haired teen. “I don’ understand ya. He friggin’ threw himself at ya, an’ ya brush him off! Did ya know he wanted ta go ta University here?” Grimmjow’s head snapped up, eyes wide. Gin chuckled sarcastically, taking a seat at the edge of his desk. Feet crossed at the ankles, he idly swung his legs back and forth. “Didn’ know, huh? Boo-hoo for ya ‘cause now, he changed his min’. All yer shovin’ him away-what’s it good fer now?!”
Grimmjow had never seen the Vice Principal without a smile on his face, be it one of pleasure or one reflecting his sadistic ways. The narrow face was currently twisted in an angry sneer that was directed at the Student Council member.
“Yer gonna explode if ya keep dis up,” Gin sighed, lowering his head so his bangs hid the slits of his closed eyes. “I don’ wanna pick up da pieces. Lulu likes ya because he likes ya. He cares more for da boy, so ya won’ fin’ much help there. Humpty won’ be put t’gether again.”
Grimmjow scoffed and began rising from the single chair. Before his knees could even straighten, Gin was off the desk and in front of him. Bony fingers curled over his shoulder, forcing the third year back into the chair.
“I didn’ say ya could leave.” Gin smiled sweetly. “If ya hurt dat boy anymore, ya won’ hafta worry ‘bout Aizen no more. Tell ‘im da truth. Love ‘im. Fuck ‘im if ya hafta.” His lips spread wider at the shock in the depth of the wide, sky blue eyes. “Ya know ya wan’ ta. Even he wants ya ta. Do it. Make ‘im happy. We’ll all be happy.” Grimmjow tried not to grimace at the fingers digging into his shoulder. The curved slits of Gin’s closed eyes parted, revealing icy blue irises. “Are we… clear?”
Grimmjow nodded slowly.
“Good!” Gin laughed, his closed eyes arching into curves as his wide grin returned. He removed his hand from Grimmjow’s shoulder. “Now, get back ta class. We can’t have ya missin’ too much wit’ finals right ‘round da corner.”
Grimmjow was a little reluctant to stand the second time around, but he was able to make it to the door and out into the hall. He unconsciously rubbed the shoulder Ichimaru all but crushed in a surprisingly strong grip. With his thoughts wrapped around the Vice Principal and the horrors that lay in store for him if he pissed him off anymore, Grimmjow returned to his homeroom class.
Ichigo grinned up at the latecomer, unfazed by the scowl he received in return. He waited until the other had taken a seat before questioning him, but not on his tardiness. “Wanna eat lunch with me, Di Roy, and Inoue?”
Had it ended with Di Roy, Grimmjow would have turned him down without the use of obscenities. But that woman would be there “Hell no,” he scoffed, pulling out his notebook from his school case.
“What if I say it was just me?”
Grimmjow’s pen snapped in half from the force he gripped it with before it even left his school case. He dropped the pieces to the bottom of the bag, never removing his hand as he was positive it was covered in ink. He glared at the orange-haired teen beside him. “The answer’s still the same. You have your friends to keep you company. I want nothin’ to do with you.”
“That’s a lie,” Ichigo laughed sarcastically.
The instructor at the front of the classroom cleared his throat, bringing their conversation to an end. Grimmjow stood from his seat, still attempting to hide his dirtied hand. Ulquiorra glanced back at their corner for a brief second before turning back around.
The Student Council VP left the classroom he’d only just entered no more than five minutes prior; the next stop was the restroom. His hand beneath the faucet that spewed hot water, the lathered soap gathered on his hands was turning a dark color from the blue ink that covered his fingers and palm. ‘Fuck, fuck, fuck…,’ “Fuck!” he snarled out loud, fisting his hands to smash them against the mirror in front of him. Crimson slowly trickled down the broken glass that hadn’t fallen from the sudden attack. He wouldn’t be able to hold on much longer.
+ + +
Grimmjow’s behavior pushed to the back of his mind, Ichigo left the classroom when beckoned by a blond second year. Lunch with Di Roy was short this time around, but somewhat sweet. As always, it was filled with laughter. Ichigo decided to do a quick round of the halls before it was off to cram school. His main duty was to check on Baraggan’s classes. Alas, the older faculty member still had yet to return.
The timid girl he had scared before followed him out into the hall. “Kurosaki…senpai.” Ichigo glared over his shoulder. She wrung her hands together, glancing down at the floor. “Harribel-san… I heard that she’s also taking a leave of absence.”
“There’re three more instructors to look after the classes,” Ichigo reminded her.
“Oh.” The second year smiled sheepishly. “Right. Sorry, senpai.”
“Go back to class,” Ichigo sighed, facing forward. “And try to stay out of trouble.”
“Hai!” The young girl straightened up after bowing deeply, eyes filled with admiration following the Student Disciplinary leader. Once Ichigo had disappeared, she hurried back into the teacher-less classroom, giggling excitedly as her friends crowded around her. “He’s… not as bad as everyone makes him out to be. He’s probably the only person in this school… that cares.”
+ + +
Ichigo glared out of the sedan window as Shawlong drove him to cram school. The saying of “only idiots don’t get sick” didn’t apply to the inhabitants of Las Noches. His brows dipped even lower. There was something other than an epidemic spreading through the halls of Las Noches High.
`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`-`
On Friday, Ichigo walked out of the gymnasium when Starrk wasn’t seen in his usual corner, stretched out on the bottom bleacher. The students milled around, aimlessly chatting, but there was one person that paid attention to him. From between the group of students that mostly stood taller than him, Di Roy watched the orange head disappear through the doors. This time, he had no intention of giving chase.
Ichigo threw open the door to Ichimaru’s office.
Gin smiled sweetly, raising his steepled hands to his face. “Kurosaki-kun. What brings ya here… so abruptly?”
“There are too many sick teachers. The old man, the lazy one, and Tia are a few that I’ve noticed.”
“Tia?” Gin laughed, momentarily sidetracked. He had never heard anyone address their lead swim instructor as that.
“It’s easier to remember, but that’s beside the point!” Ichigo slammed a hand down on the large desk. Gin’s smile widened behind his hands. “Is there a slow spread of influenza that I should be concerned about?”
Gin glanced toward the door that joined Principal and Vice Principal’s office. Ichigo spun and found Aizen smiling at him. He slid his hands into the pockets of his gakuran jacket, thumbs hooked over the outside. “Aizen…san.”
“You seem upset about something, Kurosaki-kun,” Aizen’s smile widened. “Do you wish to talk about it?”
Ichigo glanced back at the silver-haired man, but Gin’s close-eyed ‘mask’ revealed nothing. “Not… really,” he muttered.
“Are you certain?”
Ichigo nodded his head and bowed stiffly to the brown-haired man. “I’ll be on my way.” He strolled across the floor, exiting far more quietly than he had entered.
Once the door closed, the high arches of the Vice Principal’s eyes dipped as his smile died. “Aizen. Ya promisd me.”
“I have no use for your body now,” Aizen stated, his tone cold. The boy he sought had just walked through the door he continued to stare at. Gin waited until he was alone before sending a single-worded SMS message.
* * * * *
Grimmjow was being harassed. This was the conclusion he deduced from the text that contained just his name. グリムジョー was all it read; a warning. That woman had talked down to him and Gin continued to threaten him. Di Roy and the damn nurse were against him. Even Shawlong displayed signs that told him he was changing sides. Grimmjow stared at the characters for his name once again before snapping his cell phone shut. How had things changed so badly from then?
+ + +
The black sedan parked and three of its four doors opened almost simultaneously. A grinning Di Roy Rinker bounded around to the front of the vehicle, but the long fingers of Shawlong Qufang hooked into the back of his sweater kept him from jumping onto the hood. The blond pouted up at the man, but both glanced towards the passenger side of the car after hearing the low, soft-spoken statement.
“There he is.” Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez grinned, starting across the street. Di Roy wanted to follow, but Shawlong kept a firm grip on him.
Suspended, with nothing to do, Ichigo had offered to go shopping with Karin, for Yuzu. The hood of Grimmjow’s jacket was up, covering his head, hiding his electric-blue hair from sight; he didn’t want to leave behind any distinguishing features that would jog the boy’s memory once they officially met. Ichigo switched places with his sister after noticing the newcomer, keeping her on the inside. Grimmjow passed the siblings, his grin widening and blood boiling as those fiery brown eyes swept over him for a split second. Maybe if he had had more time to focus, he could have sensed what Aizen wanted the child for, but his reasons for want were far different.
“Ichi-nii?”
Ichigo gave his sister his undivided attention and their conversation resumed.
With his back turned, Grimmjow missed the quick glance the orange-haired teen threw over his shoulder in his direction one final time. He disappeared around the corner, letting his hood fall away after leaning against the large wall that housed off buildings, and began laughing softly. Grimmjow wanted no other equal than the one his soul had unconsciously chosen.
Shawlong had finally released the child and Di Roy came running over. “Senpai. Do you think he’ll make it at Las Noches?”
Grimmjow laughed even louder, placing a hand atop the white-blond crown. “He’ll definitely make it.”
* * * * *
Ichigo had been in the middle of trying-trying, and failing-to coax answers out of Aaroniero when the door to the infirmary slid open. Aaroniero welcomed the distraction. “Grimmjow-kun. Did you come to collect your pupil? It’s Friday and he should be on his way to his martial arts practice.”
Ichigo scowled after glancing over his shoulder. Grimmjow wore a similar expression, ignoring the brunet’s question. He reached the chair at the side of the desk where Ichigo sat and reached down, roughly snatching Ichigo’s wrist. He pulled him up out of his seat and proceeded to drag him out of the nurse’s office.
Aaroniero waved until his door was slammed shut. “Finally,” he sighed, collapsing against the back of his rolling, swivel chair. A grin spread across his face and he spun a few times.
Shawlong usually waited outside for him, even on club days, but the tall ebony-haired man was no where to be found. Ichigo glared at the back of Grimmjow’s head, wondering if it was his doing. “What the hell do you want?” he snapped, trying to jerk his arm free of the bruising grip. Grimmjow remained silent and proceeded to drag Ichigo outside. The black sedan was missing from the curb. ‘He did do something.’
Grimmjow released him only after they arrived at the park Ichigo usually frequented with Nel and Bawabawa. He would have taken him to the area where he’d first found the kitten, but it was still too close to the school.
Ichigo headed for the swings, dropping into the seat so roughly, the chains holding it to the frame rattled. “What do you want…?” he repeated, his tone more annoyed than angry now.
Grimmjow stared at the second swing as though it was some otherworldly abomination before slowly lowering himself into the seat. Folding his hands between his thighs, he glared at the sand beneath his feet. “You asked why-”
“You already rejected me, Grimmjow. I don’t need a detailed explanation as to why,” Ichigo muttered. He was busy. There was investigating to be done if he wanted to find out exactly what illegal actions were taking place behind these walls. With a sigh, Ichigo began to rise. “I’m leavin-”
“Shut up when people are talking!”
Ichigo gritted his teeth, fingers tightening around the hard metal coils, and fell back into the swing seat.
The martial arts club manager exhaled deeply. “You probably don’t remember what I told you when you forced your way into my room to ask for my help during finals, but… it was the truth. We are orphans that nobody wanted. Delinquents that society rejected. Some of us… were abandoned in the hospitals we were born in. The nurses and doctor took pity on me and named me. They told me this after I was old enough to understand.” Grimmjow pushed himself backwards in the swing, letting gravity pull him forward once more. Ichigo remained motionless. “When society… outside these walls was tired of us wreaking havoc, he took us in after defecting from Shinou.”
Brown eyes widening, Ichigo sat forward, almost forgetting his current location. His stumble and recovery made Grimmjow smirk. “Aizen taught at Shinou? I… never saw anything. Kaien-I knew about him, but… Do you know… why?” Ichigo gripped the metal chains even tighter.
“No, but this story ain’t ‘bout Shinou. If I had to assume, it was probably over what he gets away with behind these walls of Shinou. We’re... walking experiments. The lucky ones.” Grimmjow glared at the sand beneath his feet, remembering the dark room and the needle he had more than welcomed. Life before that was a blur of colors and pain.
“It’s not… anything… perverse, in that sense, is it?”
“No!” Ichigo did fall out of his swing then, after being clouted in the head by the other. Grimmjow let gravity pull him back to his side, and he exhaled deeply. “If you’re thinking about what you see in movies, it’s none of that. We’re subjects of various… field experiments, but nothing that involves test tubes or drugs. We gather information and he brings us in to collect. This time…” Grimmjow scowled.
“We...? Us?” Ichigo prodded.
Grimmjow turned his scowl toward to the teen that had remained seated on the sand. “You really don’t learn anything, do you? Batch experiments usually provide the best results. Starrk and Lilynette were a pair.”
Ichigo’s eyes widened. ‘Lilynette?’
“Baraggan, Harribel, Ulquiorra… myself. Even Nnoitora and Szayel Aporro.”
Ichigo shifted his position, drawing his knees up to his chest, loosely wrapping his arms around them. “So… that Saturday when I saw Szayel Aporro…” A visible shudder ran through his body after mentioning the name of the youngest Granz brother. “Because he was being transferred…?”
“Yeah, that’s right. The old man Baraggan volunteered himself, but it might be his last time. If you were smart, you’d have noticed that you’ve become a main and very important factor. You’ve been in contact with all of us.”
Ichigo lowered his knees, shifting to sit in a seiza position, hands fisted on top his thighs. “Then… Nel? Will he go after Nel?”
Grimmjow smirked. “You know she has a tattoo, right? During her years in high school, she was used to provide results. Nnoitora got jealous because Aizen valued her more than he did him, and well… you know the rest of that story. That dragon on her back covers up the mark given to her by Aizen.”
“What…? Why is he doing all of this?”
Ichigo looked so expectant, but Grimmjow had no answer to the question. “I can’t tell you what, because… I don’t really know myself. I think he’s grown tired of us, as a batch. Maybe… maybe he’ll stop now.” That was another lie. Grimmjow knew Aizen was still experimenting. There would be two more disappearances before he went after what he’d been seeking for so long. He exhaled sharply. “I’ll tell you this: Aizen… is interested in… the uniqueness of your body.” It was the only term he could think of at the moment. “He’s basically laid you out on a silver platter and he wants to see who takes the bait. Those that bite are… taken care of.”
Ichigo decided to take another chance. He also wanted to change the subject. “Is that why… you don’t want to accept my feelings?”
Grimmjow’s scowl returned and he looked away to glare down at his feet. “Several of us were sent to Karakura after the principal contacted the school. Ulquiorra was sent for a different reason than myself. I didn’t really have permission, and went for personal gain, to see what new toy we were getting. Di Roy came with me.” He glanced at the other, finding his lips involuntarily creeping into a smirk after noticing the eager look on Ichigo’s face for him to finish the story. “You were still suspended, so it was by chance that I managed to catch a glimpse of you.”
Ichigo knew his last days weren’t spent in school, and wondered if Grimmjow had seen him the day Yoruichi picked him and Ishida up on the curb.
“I’ve wanted you since then.”
Ichigo’s eyes widened at the statement. Grimmjow smirked, taking notice of how the eagerness turned into uneasiness. A blush crept across Ichigo's face. “I thought that was what you wanted to hear, shinigami. You confessed first.”
“Yeah, but… If you wanted me so badly, how do you explain your behavior?” ‘Why did you make me suffer for so long…?’
“I’m a good actor, though my patience was starting to wear thin… very thin. There was also the fact that no one was allowed to get remotely close to you or that woman.”
Ichigo lowered his head. “What about Luppi? Was he taken care of?”
Grimmjow was off the swing and on the sand in front of Ichigo, his fingers almost painfully gripping the other’s jaw. “Don’t feel sympathy for that bastard. He was the first one that broke the rule Aizen set. He drugged you with every intention of violating you. Luppi touched what was mine-he’s always been after what was mine. He even wanted my spot on the Student Council. I lost it… He’s not dead, but… as you can see, he never returned to school.” Grimmjow had placed the brunet into a coma.
“I’m sure he didn’t deserve it,” Ichigo mumbled. He grimaced as the fingers on his face tightened their grasp.
“Why can’t you understand?! If Shawlong hadn’t-”
“Shawlong?” Ichigo stressed. “What does my driver have to do with this?”
“He works under me. I’m the one that ordered him to be your driver. I told you… you were mine. Di Roy, Shawlong… Edrad.”
Ichigo’s eyes widened. “My supervisor at Adjuchas Grocer?”
“Nakeem,” Grimmjow continued.
“The name should probably sound familiar…” Ichigo mumbled.
“He works at the cram school. His girlfriend gave birth not too long before you started, so he’s taking time off.”
Ichigo snatched his face free of the bruising hold that still kept him, reflexively flexing his jaw. “What the hell, Grimmjow? Then… Ichimaru…? He was in on everything. Why…?”
Grimmjow rolled his eyes with a frustrated growl. He reached out, flicking Ichigo in the forehead. “So fuckin’ slow! They’re there for your protection! Gin is more concerned and worried about your well-being, whereas, I just don’t want people touchin’ what’s mine! Do you understand, shinigami? I couldn’t approach you the way you want, but you’ve always, been, mine.” Each word was dutifully stressed.
Ichigo rubbed the stinging spot on his forehead, huffing out a sigh. It was too much information to take in all at once, but his heart had heard what it needed to hear; the brain’s logic was being denied. He reached out, taking the hand that had caused much damage to his face. Despite everything he had just been told, if he tried again, would he still be pushed away?
Grimmjow’s eyes narrowed, but he didn’t pull away. Fuck the rules. ‘Ulquiorra broke them first,’ he told himself before the gap disappeared between them, his mouth covering Ichigo’s. Ichigo promptly melted into the kiss, releasing Grimmjow’s hand to curl his own fingers into the soft, silky blue hair. Grimmjow panted harshly against Ichigo’s lips, “Every time you got close to me... I wanted to fuck you into the ground.”
This time, it was no dream.
Ichigo was Grimmjow’s drug; Grimmjow was his. Ichigo’s response was to tilt his head, nibbling Grimmjow's bottom lip before his tongue darted out. The muscle was captured and sucked into Grimmjow’s mouth. Ichigo was aware of the sand that crept into his shirt, but the pleasure he felt weighed more heavily on all his senses. He actually whimpered when Grimmjow pulled away, but heard the reason why after the blood stopped pounding in his ears. “Bawa...bawa,” he breathed.
Grimmjow stood, pulling Ichigo back onto his feet. He was not popular with dogs, and the feeling was mutual.
Ichigo had barely steadied himself when he was bowled over. Laughing, he held the Doberman’s muzzle away from his face. “Stop…! You're gonna kill me!”
“Bawabawa! Ichigo!” Nel slowed before needing to skid to a halt, meeting Grimmjow’s glare with a wide, almost knowing smiling. “Grimmjow-kun.”
Grimmjow nodded his head in respect to the woman. He’d seen what she was capable of firsthand. Luckily, he hadn’t been on the receiving end, but he had also known about her and her prowess before meeting her in person. Her name was still posted in the trophy display case, bringing home first and gold in every track event and kendo event. He also knew of the deal made between her and Inoue. Where the younger girl couldn’t follow, Nel took over to ensure Ichigo’s safety. It was a big help, because he knew she actually had access to places Shawlong and Di Roy could never be.
Grimmjow sneered, reflexively backing away from the dog that sniffed at his hand. “Bawabawa’s friendly," Nel giggled, stepping up to scratch her pet behind the ear. He leaned into the touch, but resumed trying to get Grimmjow’s attention.
“Are you scared of dogs?” Ichigo questioned, seeing Grimmjow pull his hand away. He grinned when Bawabawa turned towards his voice.
“No,” Grimmjow scoffed. “I just… They don’t like me.” Bawabawa seemed to have understood. He was away from Ichigo in an instant and his front paws were on Grimmjow’s chest as he bestowed ‘kisses’ upon the Student Council VP. In his own way, he said, “I like you.” Grimmjow didn’t pull away, but he also didn’t look too amused. Ichigo whistled and the Doberman scurried to him.
“Sorry,” Nel mumbled with a pout. She shot a quick glance at Grimmjow, smiling from beneath her bangs, before turning back so she faced Ichigo. “He broke loose again. You should stay away from this park. Or… not... do certain things in this park.” Ichigo ducked his head while Grimmjow glared off to the side. “Bawabawa hasn’t seen you in ages! There’s no way he’s going to leave you alone now…”
“I can’t take you with me,” Ichigo sighed at the canine nibbling his fingers to gain his attention. ‘I also want to go back with Grimmjow.’
Bawabawa tilted his head, wide, round eyes blinking up at the orange-haired teen. He backed away, strutting back to Nel’s side. She reached down, scratching him behind his ear. “Ara? Well… since you came to me willingly, let’s go back, Bawabawa. Ichigo will see you another time.” Bawabawa responded with an obedient bark and began strutting back to Hueco Mundo. With an energetic wave, she jogged after the Doberman.
Ichigo glanced at Grimmjow, smiling shyly. “You attract dogs now, shinigami?” the blue-haired teen chuckled, walking over to stand beside the other.
“Shut up. Bawabawa's… Just shut up!”
The punch to Grimmjow's shoulder was a bit strong to be considered playful, but the VP took it all in stride. Grimmjow took Ichigo by the crook of his arm, tugging him back so he was at the perfect angle for a kiss. He could feel the smile on Ichigo’s lips, and when they separated, it was still there.
"Should we... go to practice?" Ichigo asked hesitantly, now worried about the cause and effect pattern that would happen if he ventured too close to others. "You could... make an appearance to cancel."
"Why would I cancel? You don't have to come if you don't want to. You already missed two days. Starting next week, we have to begin studying for finals."
"I'll show my face," Ichigo decided, not wanting to be separated now that he'd finally gotten his hands on his prize. Grimmjow accepted the decision with a nonchalant shrug of his shoulders. He nodded his head back to the school building and they set off together. Grimmjow's nonchalance melted away under the heat of his anger after they stepped into the dojo.
Ichigo headed for his locker, removing his jacket along the way. He opened the metal door, finding the hanger within to put away the article of clothing. The gi came out next and Ichigo began stripping out of the rest of his school uniform. Heads turned in his direction, lured by the pheromones that rolled off him in waves.
"Senpai-"
"Kurosaki-senpai-"
The second years glanced at each other, sharing an embarrassed grin before moving forward together to reach their orange-haired senpai.
Ichigo glanced over his bare shoulder and his eyes widened at the sea of excited faces staring back at him. Only Grimmjow wore a scowl, a look of death visible in his striking sky blue eyes. Ichigo carefully slipped his shirt back on, but more members of the martial arts club continued to advance. He stared pleadingly at the dojo manager and Grimmjow stepped in.
Grimmjow forced his way through the crowd, pushing students aside until he reached Ichigo. He yanked the gakuran jacket out and slammed the locker shut, pressing it against Ichigo's chest. "Go back to the dorm," he hissed.
"By... myself, like this?"
Ichigo’s hesitation was the key that had Grimmjow screaming out that practice was canceled. "Study for you damn finals so I can pick somebody worthy to take over for me when I graduate!"
Ichigo hadn't fully buttoned his jacket when his upper arm was grabbed and he was dragged out of the dojo. Ichigo grinned at the tight expression of anger Grimmjow wore. "I wonder if this was what Renji went through-"
"Who the fuck is Renji?" Grimmjow snarled.
Surprise was the first thing Ichigo experienced, after being grabbed roughly by the shoulders, but it quickly gave way to amusement. "You're so... jealous," he laughed. "Renji's from Shinou. We dated for a few months, but then he broke it off."
A blue eyebrow arched sharply. "Why?"
"Because of what just happened in there, I guess. My being with him caused a pheromone explosion and he didn't want me getting hurt…" Ichigo shook his head, unable to shrug his shoulders. “He never explained it to me, but that seems like the most logical answer.”
"He's a fool," Grimmjow scoffed.
Ichigo grinned. "We both agreed on that fact. You won't dump me, will you?" Grimmjow's expression turned blank; it surprised Ichigo, since he only ever knew the other to wear a frown. "Grimmjow?"
"No," Grimmjow finally responded. Maybe the last several months of countless ordeals had been necessary in order for him to realize that he had no intentions of letting go. "Even if I have to kill every fucker that looks your way-"
"You don't have to," Ichigo interjected with a nervous laugh. He could already see that future. A red carpet laid out before him, stained with the blood of millions; every squelching step would weigh heavily on his conscience. The biggest obstacle they now faced was Aizen and the dark truth hidden behind sterile white walls.
The black sedan remained missing after they stepped out of the school once again, but Ichigo didn't mind. What he did mind, was how short the walk to the dorms really were. It felt like mere seconds had passed and they were parting ways. Ichigo's hand lingered on his doorknob. He glanced to his left and found Grimmjow still stood in the hall, shoulder against his closed door. Ichigo smiled shyly. "Do you want to come over for... dinner? I should have enough for two." He'd gone a week without properly eating, so a decent meal was in order.
Grimmjow pulled himself away from the door, covering the few steps needed in order to reach the blushing orange-haired teen in easy strides. His hand covered Ichigo's, taking over the task of opening the door. He pulled Ichigo inside, closing the door behind them.
A solid minute couldn't have fully passed before the front door exploded and Nel burst into the room. "Ichig... Oh." Nel grinned slyly. "Am I... interrupting?" She didn't wait for a reply and hurried over to where the new couple stood, breaking them apart. "I know I just left, but… Ichigo! Donda-niichan brought these when he came to pick up Bawabawa, so I decided to share them with you as an apology, for… earlier."
Ichigo's blush had yet to fade away; Nel obviously knew about them and was trying her hardest to tease him into an early grave. It was Grimmjow that accepted and opened the container. "Mitarashi dango. Hnn," he muttered.
"You're welcome!" Nel giggled, easily able to recognize the teen's roundabout way of expressing gratitude. He'd come to her after taking care of Nnoitora and choked out a grumbled 'thanks'. "I'll leave you two alone now. Enjoy!" Nel gave Ichigo a quick squeeze. Grimmjow was too tall to be buried in her bosom, but she hugged him nonetheless. The door then swung shut, closing with a soft click.
"We can eat 'em after dinner," Ichigo suggested, taking the container from Grimmjow. He headed into the kitchen first. He would really miss the luxuries that came with Las Noches. There was no school, not even a private University, which would provide students with their own kitchen in each dorm room. The dango container was placed on the counter while Ichigo collected the items necessary for the quick meal he had planned. “Do you want tamagodon?”
“I want meat,” Grimmjow grumbled, standing in the kitchen’s doorway.
Ichigo closed the refrigerator door, glaring at the blue-haired figure. “Do you have any over by you? Or we can share one bowl.”
“I want meat,” Grimmjow repeated, his eyes narrowing. He reached into the pocket of his uniform slacks, removing his cell phone, never once breaking gazes with Ichigo. “I’m calling Shawlong so he can take us to Adjuchas.”
Ichigo headed for the box of dango while Grimmjow placed the call. He removed a skewer that contained four confectionary pieces, careful of the syrup they were covered with. A hand stalled his as he lifted the treat to his mouth and Grimmjow appeared in his peripheral vision. Ichigo’s hand was tilted so the skewer was pointed upright, allowing for easily removal of a dango by way of mouth. Grimmjow held it between his teeth, though, a playful look directed at the blushing orange-haired teen. Ichigo latched onto the other end, sinking his teeth in to separate it in two. Grimmjow’s hand curled around the back of his neck, trapping him in place. The dango was chewed, swallowed, and then their tongues met to savor its sweetness in the other’s mouth.
“I’ll never be able to make that donburi… if you keep this up,” Ichigo murmured after they separated.
Grimmjow grinned and stole another mitarashi dango before turning and heading back out of the kitchen. He lifted a hand. “Shawlong’s gonna be here soon. C’mon.” Ichigo bit off one of the two remaining dango before following, the skewer still in his hand.
+ + +
Grimmjow purchased the meat so that he would be able to enjoy a gyoudon bowl that wasn’t lacking. Ichigo watched him eat and told himself he would have to thank Yuzu for putting up with him and teaching him how to make his way around a kitchen… unlike their useless crybaby of a father. He also recited one of Yuzu’s code to his guest as he packed the empty dishes at the sink: “You must brush your teeth within ten minutes after a meal, or you won’t get your next meal.”
Grimmjow rolled his eyes, standing from the couch. He left to go back to his dorm, where his toothbrush was located, and Ichigo headed into his own bathroom. On his way back, he stopped off at Ulquiorra’s, dragging the spare futon out again.
“Congratulations,” the brunet stated softly before the VP could leave. “And good luck.”
“Same goes for you, doesn’t it?” Grimmjow replied, pulling the door shut with his free hand. The other held the rope that kept the mattress from unfurling. Less than a minute later, he brought it back, a wide grin splitting his face. Ulquiorra gave his head a subtle shake, returning to the book in hand.
Ichigo turned off the lights before climbing into the bed Grimmjow already inhabited. Just being this close was enough for him, so he kept to his side of the futon. Grimmjow also remained where he lay. The question that now plagued them both was: what next? The answer to that would arrive soon enough. For now, all they could do was enjoy their good fortune.
A/N: *peeks her head out of her hole* I… got a little domestic there at the end, but I couldn’t help eeeeeet! My Grimmjows always come out rough n’ tumble, but they always have a wi~ttle soft side. This one rough n’ tumbled enough, so he’s gonna get gropey. Are you gaiz happy they’re finally together? Yay? And don’t worry about the experimental, Aizen-related stuff. Foothold’s better now, so… I just hope his excuse is …suitable.
[ chapter twenty-five] [ chapter twenty-six] [ chapter twenty-seven] [ chapter twenty-eight] [ chapter twenty-nine] [ chapter thirty] [ chapter thirty-one] [ chapter thirty-two] [ chapter thirty-three]