Chapter Text
A hundred years.
‘Has it really been that long?’ You mused.
In the span of time, a hundred years barely made a scratch, but these past hundred years have put such a strain on your being. The entire image you had for yourself shattered. For seventy years you walked around as a shadow of yourself. A being you hated.
A being you hated…
…Did you ever really like who you were?
Maybe during the five hundred years you spent with her you were content with yourself.
But happy?
She made you happy. Now she was gone.
You were never happy with yourself.
When you were alone, it seemed like all the things you hated about yourself were magnified and that little voice in your head seemed to scream out all your imperfections.
Sake seemed to be the only thing that quieted the voice in your head when you were alone, so maybe that’s why you let yourself waste away for those seventy years.
Then thirty years ago, your former student gave you a wake up call and what a wake up call that was.
You narrowed your eyes at the memory, a smirk forming on your lips.
Yoruichi certainly surprised you that night. You never would have expected your former student to pull such a stunt.
Not on you at least.
Ambushing you as you were leaving for the bar and keeping you locked in your apartment for days.
You should have been furious at her, but she certainly kept you busy.
Smirk widening, you hat to bite you bottom lip at the memory.
Now you’re back to being content.
“Content, huh?” You chuckled lowly from your spot leaning on your kitchen counter.
With a sigh, you moved your head away from the window and brought your coffee cup up to your lips to take a long sip. You’re eyes fell on the calender as you gulped down the molten liquid, letting it burn your throat.
February fourteenth.
Valentine’s Day.
You moved the mug away from your lips just long enough to let another sigh escape before you downed the rest of it’s contents in a large gulp, feeling your mind becoming just that much more alert.
“That time of year already, huh?” You grumbled as you placed your mug down on the counter next to you. Raising your arms above your head, you stretched for a good fifteen seconds, letting out a content groan when you felt your back pop.
The sound of music coming from the next room drew your attention. Yoruichi was gone when you woke up, so no one else was in the apartment but you. Standing slightly on edge, you turned towards the arch and cautiously made your way into the livingroom.
She’s nothing like a girl you’ve ever seen before
Nothing you can compare to your neighboorhood hoe
I’m trying to find the words to describe this girl
Without being disrespectful
Scanning the room, amusement filled you when your gaze landed on your phone’s lit up screen on the coffee table.
The way that booty movin’, I can’t take no more
Had to stop what I’m doin’ so I can pull up close
I’m trying to find the words to describe this girl
Without being disrespectful.
Walking over to the center of the room, you grabbed your phone off the table and all but collapsed onto your couch.
Damn girl!
You chuckled, letting the mystery song play. You definitely didn’t remember setting this as your new ring/text tone.
Damn, you’s a sexy bitch, a sexy bitch
Damn, you’s a sexy bitch, a sexy bitch
The smile that broke onto your face was hard to fight off and it only grew when you unlocked your phone.
From: Sexy
You raised a brow at the name. It seems a certain kitty went into your phone while you were asleep. A bit bold of her, but should you really expect anything less from Yoruichi Shihoin?
No.
Not after knowing her for as long as you have.
Sexy: Instead of moping all day, pick me up from Kisuke’s at 6 ;)
A small smile appeared on your face as you ran a hand through your fiery red hair.
This was unexpected.
Or was it?
You and Yoru have gone on dates before….but on Valentines Day?
You tapped on the text bar to reply when another message popped up.
Sexy: I’m expecting something nice (kissy face)
You snorted at the message before laying down on the couch and replying.
You: Are you now? Shall I break out the fancy tuna? Maybe get some expensive catnip?
The reply was almost immediate and you had to roll your eyes at the smirk emoji that answered.
Sexy: Tempting but maybe next time? Unless you want to spend your valentine’s day with a cat?
You had to deadpan at Yoruichi’s response.
She was a cat.
You: …Yoru…aren’t you a cat like 99% of the time…? You literally spent all day yesterday curled on my lap…
It was a trap. You should have expected her answer the moment you sent the text but you found her last response so ridiculous that you momentarily forgot about how flirty Yoroichi was.
Sexy: Well if all goes well then maybe instead of having a cat curled on your lap…you’ll have my face between your legs…?
You fought the urge to throw your phone.
That should have been expected.
But Soul King be damned if that idea wasn’t tempting.
You swung your legs off the couch and rolled back into a sitting position.
You: I’ll pick you up at 6. You might as well tell Kisuke not to bother you. You’ll be busy for the next few days.
When the text bubble appeared on the screen, could practically feel Yoruichi’s smugness radiating from it. Quickly, so you still had some control of the situation, you quickly added.
Don’t think I’m forgetting about your little…surprise..this morning.
It certainly was amusing and definitely raised your spirits.
Yoruichi didn’t have to know that though.
The text bubble disappeared almost immediately and with a huff, you tossed your phone to the other end of the couch, switching it out for your laptop.
It seems like you had some planning to do.
You decided to take your bike.
Of course you did, there wasn’t really any other choice since Yoruichi would have complained otherwise. Plus the bike made it easier to weave through traffic and get to your destinations faster.
It had nothing to do with the fact that your bike was one of the few joys that made leaving Soul Society worth it.
….but it may have had to do with the hour you spent in the bath getting your nerves and emotions under control….
I mean it’s not like you and… her …ever did anything for Valentines Day. It was a romantic holiday after all and there was nothing romantic going on between you and… her…
There was no love between you and Yachiru.
It was purely physical. Just like it was between you and Yoruichi. It was purely to take care of your primal urges and ensure they wouldn’t distract you. Tonight was just a bit of fun, going out so you could both enjoy yourselves and neither of you felt alone.
There was no love between you and Yachiru.
And there was no love between you and Yoruichi.
…despite the fact that you completely and utterly fell for Yachiru like the weakling you were…
You clenched your fist on the door of your closet, shaking your head free of any lingering thoughts as you decided what to wear for the night.
What would Yoruichi like?
….besides seeing you naked….
It was only five-thirty when you arrived at Urahara Shoten and unsurprisingly, Kisuke was standing by the door, watching your every move with his fan covering his face. No longer was he that nervous, quiet boy that you knew as a student, a fact that you stopped marveling at decades ago.
You took off your helmet, shooting Kisuke a small smile and wave before running your fingers through your fiery red hair to fix it.
“Kisuke.” You greeted, placing the helmet on the seat of your bike.
The eccentric blonde snapped his fan closed and shot you a playful grin.
“Ai-sensei.” Kisuke greeted. “It’s been a while. How are you?”
You let out a small chuckle as you turned towards him. “I told you to stop calling me that.” You chided lightly. “I haven’t been your sensei for over a century.”
“A fact Yoruichi seems to take pleasure in.” Kisuke noted with amusement.
A hum escaped you as you grabbed a bag of your motorcycle’s handels and walked closer to the door. “That she does.” You winked.
Kisuke’s amused look quickly trailed off into a grimace at the look on your face. “I really don’t need the details.”
“Well it’s a good thing I didn’t offer any.” You teased, clapping him on his shoulder. Kisuke only smirked at you, before flicking his fan open. A knowing look in his eyes. You narrowed your eyes at him before turning to look skeptically at the door to the shop.
‘Did Yoruichi….?’ You mused slightly before shaking your head, your grin returning as you shoved your fists into your pockets. “Is Lady Shihoin ready?”
Kisuke laughed at your question, knowing full well that Yoruichi hated being addressed so formally.
“She should be finishing up as we speak.” Kisuke replied with a chuckle. “Unless she decides to be fashionably late.”
You grimaced at the thought before glancing around the shop as Kisuke led you to the back. “No Tessai?” You questioned
“He took the kids out for a bit.” Kisuke replied off-handedly. “We wanted to give you two some privacy.” He finished with a suggestive wiggle of his eyebrows.
“Ah.” You said, initially unsure of how to respond to that. “You wanted to spare them from having to see another woman steal their mother away from their father.”
Kisuke tripped over the step that led into the back of the shop, tumbling slightly as he turned to you spluttering. “Wha-? Where-!? How did-?!”
You pretended to wipe away a fake tear. “It’s ok, I understand.” You glanced sadly at the ceiling. “Tessai’s far more of a mother to them than Yoruichi would ever be.”
“Ai-San!” Kisuke protested, glancing tentatively in the direction of what you assumed was Yoruichi’s room. “Yoruichi might hear you.”
A small snicker managed to break free as you glanced at Kisuke then back towards the direction of Yoruichi’s room. You weren’t worried, if anything Yoruichi would find the teasing amusing. She knew very well that she wasn't the motherly type.
You followed Kisuke to the sitting room, quickly removing the items from the shopping bag and tossing said bag in the trash when you had the chance. You managed to stop by a store on your way over to get some presents for Yoru, something Kisuke noticed when you removed them from the bag. You sat patiently at the table while you waited for your date, making small talk with Kisuke, making sure you threw in a few teasing words here and there.
You weren’t quite sure when the small talk turned into a competition to see who could annoy the other more, but it did. You constantly poked fun at Kkisuke’s domestic lifestyle and Kisuke kept switching back and forth between calling you Ai-sensei, and even worse…Ai-chan…
It sounded so wrong coming from Kisuke that a shiver went down your spine at the reminder.
It seems Yoruichi did want to be fashionably late.
You had been at Urahara’s for nearly an hour at this point and while normally, you wouldn’t mind Yoruichi’s theatrics, you did have a reservation at seven.
Sighing, you glanced at the door in exasperation.
‘C’mon Yoru….hurry up…’ You internally groused.
Yoruichi must have been a mind reader. Nearly as soon as you thought that, the door slid open….
And you felt your breath catch in your throat.
Yoruichi stood in the doorway with her hair up in a bun, loose strands of hair framing her face and wearing a short, tight-fitted gold dress that had a dangerously low neckline and split at her thigh.
Dangerous for you at least. The restaurant charged for late arrivals and no shows but you were very tempted to say fuck it and skip straight to dessert.
Yoruichi’s chest had always been impressive. A fact she took great pride in and one you always appreciated, so much so that she definitely chose a dress that highlighted it.
Hell, she chose a dress that highlighted everything.
Her legs looked amazing, more so than usual. You couldn’t wait for later, when the two of you were alone so you could run your hands over them.
Your not sure how long you had been staring at her legs, but it most have been for a good minute. Yoruichi definitely noticed and she struck a playful pose that made them stand out even more before she turned just enough to show off her ass.
Never did you consider yourself an ass fan, but now, after your gaze immediately snapped to it, you weren’t so sure.
Tearing your eyes away, you caught Yoruichi’s smug look as soon as you glanced at her face.
“Oh no.” Yoruichi smirked. “Keep staring, it does wonders for my ego.”
You rolled your eyes. “Like you need any more of an ego boost.”
Yoruichi’s smirk only widened at your comment and with a fond shake of your head, you stood up from your seat, making sure to grab the gifts on your way up but keeping your hands behind your back as an attempt to keep them hidden.
Yoruichi winked at you. “It fuels my god complex.”
Kisuke started snickering behind you. Whether it was because Yoruichi’s response or if he caught sight of the presents you held in your hands, you weren’t sure.
Yoruichi’s smirk wavered slightly when she got a good look at your outfit. “Seems like I overdressed.”
A small chuckle escaped you as you glanced down at your apparent choice of jeans and a leather jacket. You met Yoruichi’s eyes with a twitch of your lip.
“Took my bike.” You replied simply before giving the purple haired goddess a wink. “You’ll see my outfit at dinner.”
Yoruichi’s sent a suggestive glance at your frame. “As long as it’s worth the wait.”
You leaned forward and placed a small kiss on her cheek before Yoruichi wrapped her arms around your neck.
You smiled down at her. “I think it will be.” You said, bringing your right hand out from behind your back and offering Yoruichi One of the presents. A small plush. She blinked in surprise, her eyes widening at the sight of the bee plush you held in your hand.
“Ai…” Yoruichi breathed, her face softening as her hands ran down your arms.
She grabbed the plush from your hands and your smile turned sad. Reaching up, up ran the side of your finger along Yoruichi’s face. Her eyes snapped towards you in shock.
“I know you miss her.” You whispered softly before your lip twitched. “But now you can keep your Little Bee close, yeah?”
A snort sounded from behind you, you turned your head and leveled Kisuke with a look as Yoruichi glared in Kisuke’s direction.
“You're still here?” Yoruichi questioned mildly. But the real meaning behind her words was obvious as Kisuke grinned and snapped his fan open.
“Oh~” He sang playfully. “I was just leaving, Tessai and the kids should be back soon.”
The two of you watch Kisuke saunter to the door, giving the two of you an exaggerated wink and a wiggle of his brows. Then almost painfully slow, the door shut, leaving the two of you alone.
“I hate him sometimes.” You muttered with narrowed eyes.
Here you were trying to do something nice for Yoruichi and he ruined the moment. He always ruined the moment.
Yoruichi hummed in agreement before reaching out and snatching your chin, forcefully pulling your attention back towards her.
“I’ll make sure to smack him when I get back.” Yoruichi muttured, before capturing your lips with hers.
You hummed into the kiss before wrapping your free arm around Yoruichi’s waist and pulling her close.
It was playing with fire.
You were very much aware that it was and you’ve been aware of it since the first time you two kissed, yet you didn’t stop it. It was the same with Yachiru. You both knew that you shouldn’t and yet you still did. At this point, It’s been happening for so long that you couldn’t remember who started it first and despite your better judgment? You still let it continue.
There was nothing romantic going on between the two of you, there was no love and you needed to keep reminding yourself that or you would just get yourself hurt.
Again.
After a moment, the two of you broke away and Yoruichi murmured against your lips “Thanks for the gift.” Before she leaned back and gave you a wink. “Keep it up and maybe you’ll get what I promised you.”
You smirked and brought your other hand out from behind your back, raising it up for Yoruichi to see. A box of chocolates and a rose. Yoruichi’s eyes widened again before turning to you questioningly.
“You haven’t actually celebrated Valentine's Day before have you?” You questioned, smiling softly at her confused look. “I figured I’d give you high expectations for your future beau.”
“I thought-?” Yoruichi questioned before you cut her off with a chuckle.
“We didn’t.” You answered truthfully before reassuringly adding. “Nothing like this.” A playful look overtook your face as you stared at Yoruichi in amusement. “But I’ve been alive nearly as long as she has and I’ve had a few relationships here and there.”
Yoruichi was staring at you with a look so heavy that you refused to acknowledge it and after a moment, a teasing smile bloomed on Yoruichi’s face that made you even more uneasy.
“That’s right, how could I forget.” She said in a way that made you narrow your eyes. “You’re basically the same age as-!”
‘Nope .’ You thought quickly. That was something that risked ruining your mood and by extension, your night. ‘Not being reminded of it.’
You pulled Yoruichi closer and leaned forward, shutting her up with a kiss.
There was only twenty minutes to make your reservation and you would be damned if you had to drop another hundred for being late on top of what you already paid for your last minute reservation.
So after taking a moment to wait patiently for Yoruichi to put her presents in her room and grab her coat, you grabbed her wrist and all but dragged her out towards your bike the second the door closed. Not one to forget to be polite, you shot a smile and a wave at Kisuke and a surprised Tessai on your way out, just barely catching the suggestive look Yoruichi sent her two childhood friends as you turned back around.
‘That explains Kisuke’s earlier response. I wonder what she’s told them.’ You mused as you passed your companion he spare helmet and climbed onto the bike, Yoruichi following a moment later.
You kicked off the kickstand and started the engine before startling at the feeling of arms wrapping tightly around you when you began to put your helmet back on.
Halting half way through putting your helmet on- with it still hovering over your head, you tried to turn around in confusion only to stop when a slight breeze tickled your ear.
Yoruichi’s smugness practically oozed off of her as she pressed herself tightly against your back, her arms wrapping around your waist. “You know,” she breathed against your ear. “I wouldn’t mind if we went back to your place.” Yoruichi breathed into your ear, causing goosebumps to form all over your skin.
Moving one hand off your helmet, you squeezed one of the arms Yoruichi had wrapped around your waist. “Where’s the fun in that?” You teased.
“We could find a way to make it fun.” Yoruichi whispered, nipping your ear.
A low hum escaped your throat before you lightly pinched Yoruichi’s wrist. The purple haired beauty jerked her hand away with a hiss.
“You wanted something nice,” You shrugged. “Now you’re stuck waiting till after we’re done with what I have planned.”
Yoruichi didn’t answer for a moment but when you turned to check on her she scoffed, playfully smacking your shoulder. “Always ruining my fun.”
With a shake of your head, you finished putting your helmet on, Yoruichi following after you and as soon as her head was snuggled against your back and her arms were wrapped around you again, you sped off.
It was a miracle that the two of you made it in time. Especially, since the restaurant was normally thirty minutes away.
Granted, you drove a bit faster on your bike than normal, but you were surprised that ‘a bit faster’ cut a thirty minute drive down to fifteen minutes.
‘Next time I’ll have to watch my speed.’ You sighed, internally.
Yoruichi, however, was laughing. “And here I thought I was the speed demon. When do you go so fast?”
Not wanting to fuel her god complex by throwing numbers around, you just started laughing with her. “I'm surprised too, guess I wasn’t paying attention to the speed.”
‘No way in Hell am I telling her I blew nearly two hundred on this reservation ... .or that it would make it three if we were late.’ You sweat dropped, rubbing the back of your neck.
Yoruichi snorted at your answer. “If you ask me, you should go faster more often. You're way too slow. And not just on your bike, You're always slow.”
Hearing Yoruichi’s words, you paused in handing the two helmets to the attendant and turned towards her with a raised brow. “Always?” You asked.
Yoruichi looked you dead in the eyes. “Always.”
Raising your brow higher, a soft hum escaped you. “ Always? ” You asked again, emphasizing the word.
Yoruichi crossed her arms as she rolled her eyes, she opened her mouth to respond but paused suddenly, a sultry smirk appearing on her face.
“Maybe not always. ” She amended. “Something’s in life are better when they’re done… slow ...” Yoruichi added with a flirty wink.
Chuckling, you turned back to the bright red attendant and shot him an apologetic smile. Poor kid looked barely out of high school. “Sorry.” You muttered, passing him a twenty.
“A-all g-good miss!” The kid stuttered before asking. “May I take your bag?”
You jostled the bag on your shoulder slightly. “Maybe in a minute, where’s the restroom?”
The kid stuttered out a response and pointed to a set of doors at the end of the hall. With another smile, you turned around and headed for them.
“Should I join you?” Yoruichi asked teasingly, but you could hear the genuine curiosity in her tone.
The teen turned even redder and you just had to send him an amused look. The pure cinnamon roll. Raising the hand not clutching your bag, you waved off Yoruichi’s question. “Nah, I’ll just be a minute. Why don't you wait by the fish tank?”
You didn’t even have to turn around to know that Yoruichi was pouting at your answer. It must not have been for very long since just as you reached the bathroom door, her voice hit your ear.
“Ara~? Boya, you look kinda red.” You heard her say, most likely to the attendant. Sending a quick glance in the direction, you noticed the kid basically had smoke coming out of his ears. Yoruichi grinned. “Wait don’t tell me-?”
Shaking your head, you closed the bathroom door behind you, drowning out whatever the werecat said.
‘I’m gonna have to give the kid a better tip.’ You mused before wincing. ‘There goes the money I hoped to save.’
Letting out a sigh, you unzipped your jacket and headed for the nearest stall. Shrugging off your jacket, the bottom half of your long black dress fell to the floor. You felt goosebumps on the bit of stomach that was exposed from the cut out before hooking your fingers on the belt loops of your jeans, shedding them off and throwing them into your bag, you pulled out your pair of sling back heels and your clutch while you were at it.
You did have to pay after all.
Kicking off your boots and socks, you threw both into the bag, zipping it up and slipping into the heels. You smoothed out the dress before slinging the bag over your shoulder, grabbed your jacket and clutch and walked over to the sink.
Placing the bags and jacket on the edge of the sink, you grabbed the small amount of makeup you packed with you. Quickly applying the smaller amount on your face, you placed the make up back, pulling off the hair tie on your wrist and grabbing the top half of your hair, styling it into a bun while the bottom half stayed loose.
Doing a once over in the mirror, you smirked before turning slightly. The dress was just tight enough.
Oh Yoru was gonna love this.
And yet…you couldn’t help but wonder what Yachi would have thought…
Shaking your head free of those thoughts, you picked up your bag and headed out of the restroom, back towards the coat check.
The teen was nowhere to be seen.
You glanced over by the fish tank to see Yoruichi sitting on the cushioned bench with her arms crossed and staring at the fish. You could see one of her hands twitching, almost like she wanted to swat at the fish. It was difficult to hold back a snort at the sight.
‘I guess living as a cat most of the time for a hundred years really leaves an impression.’ You mused.
“Wow” You heard someone say from the other side of the counter.
Turning your head away from your date you noticed the teen from earlier staring at you in awe. A light blush dusting his face when he realized he said that aloud.
“S-sorry.” He stuttered, offering his hand out for the items you wanted to leave.
Chuckling slightly, you winked at the teen. “All good.” You reassured, handing over your bag and jacket.
The boy gave a nervous smile before placing your bag and jacket with Yoruichi’s coat and your two helmets, handing you over a small metal ring with the number fifty-two engraved on it when he was done. Popping the tag into your clutch, you shot the attendant one more smile before turning around to glance at Yoruichi.
She was still entranced by the fish.
A fond smile appeared on your face as you walked towards the purple haired ex-captain, both hands holding the black and white clutch.
“Ready to go?” You asked as soon as you were a foot or two away from her.
Yoruichi, turned her head in your direction but her eyes stayed glued to the fish. “Yeah, all ready.”
An amused expression replaced the fond smile. You couldn’t even be mad at her, this was just far too amusing to watch.
“Unfortunately, I don’t think they’ll send a waiter out to the foyer.” You nudged. “Your gonna have to move away from the fish if we want to eat.”
Blinking slightly, Yoruichi turned towards you, an annoyed look in her face. “Of course I’m gonna-!”
Yoruichi stopped mid sentence, her annoyance melting away into awe. Her breath catching as gold eyes glanced over you, soaking in every detail.
“God damn.” Yoruichi breathed, jaw dropping as her breath left her.
Smirking slightly, you turned subtly, copying what she had done back at Urahara’s. Just not so obviously.
“Let’s go, Shihoin.” You called as you walked towards the hostess by the door.
And later, when Yoruichi asks if you were purposely swinging your hips? You would have no idea what she was talking about.
There was a smile on your face as you watched the waiter walk away with the menus before turning back towards Yoruichi. She was staring at the hostess.
No. She was glaring at the hostess.
She was fuming. Still.
“Really Yoru?” You asked, raising a brow.
Yoruichi narrowed her eyes before turning back to you. “What?” She demanded.
You sighed, resting your hand on your fist. “We’ve been sitting for fifteen minutes and you’re still upset with the hostess?”
Golden eyes narrowed further. “She was flirting with you.”
“You flirt with people all the time.” You deadpanned before waving your other hand. “Besides, I shut that down immediately.”
Yoruichi scoffed. “Sure you did.”
“I did.” You agreed.
Yoruichi clicked her tongue. “She kept flirting with you till we got to the table.”
“I made it obvious I wasn’t interested.” You reassured, reaching out and grabbing her free hand.
“Apparently not.” Yoruichi grumbled, resting her chin on the back of her hand. “Either that or the blonde bimbo can't take a hint.”
“Yoru…” You pleaded, face softening as you squeezed her hand. “Please.”
Yoruichi sighed as she looked away from you glaring at the table next to you who were sending the two of you looks.
Letting out a sigh of your own, you tried to retract your hand, only for Yoruichi to grab it as soon as you let go. You stared at Yoruichi in confusion for a moment before your eyes widened slightly.
‘Wait.’ You thought in surprise. ‘Don’t tell me.’
You stared at Yoruichi in surprise for a moment. The surprise turned into awe before a teasing smirk appeared on your face.
“You know.” You began, eyes soaking in Yoruichi’s every detail. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were Jealous. ”
Yoruichi’s eyes widened and her head snapped to you. It was brief. After a few seconds, her face morphed into an expression that you had never seen before. At least not on Yoruichi’s face and never directed at You. In fact, you weren’t sure what the look on her face meant…and you were surprised when you realized your heart sped up as she stared at you with it.
The golden eyed beauty snorted, wrapping both of your hands together. “ Jealous? Me? Come on now Takahashi, you know better than that.”
Your heart sank and you glanced down at the table with a chuckle.
It was a curse. It was like Yachiru all over again.
‘Shit.’ You bit out mentally. That thought accompanied by Yoruichi’s words made your eyes sting. ‘Come on! I’m way too old to be upset over this!’
Feeling a squeeze on your hand, you blinked away the prickly sensation and looked at Yoruichi from behind your lashes. She was looking at you in awe. You couldn’t hold her gaze so you glanced to a spot over her shoulder.
‘Seriously? What were you expecting Ai?’ You berated yourself. ‘It was stupid for you to hope like that. Actually, where did that hope come from? You know that there’s nothing romantic going on between you two! Yoruichi has feelings for Shaoling! You know that! How-!’
Your thoughts were interrupted by the feeling of a finger tilting your chin. You stared at Yoruichi for a moment. Her face was fierce in determination as she stared at you with eyes that held the briefest amount of sadness and uncertainty hidden behind the determination.
“Now that’s a look that doesn’t belong on your face.” Yoruichi noted. “What’s going on in the beautiful head of yours Ai?”
You schooled your features after a moment, a lopsided smile on your face. Youruochi retracted her hand as you shook your head.
“It’s nothing.” You reassured her. Liar . “Just hope I didn’t offend you by saying you were jealous.”
Yoruichi’s eyes hardened. “And if I am?”
Your eyes widened. Did you offend her? That was a stupid question, she just said so.
“I-!” You started before Yoruichi cut you off.
“Jealous.” She said, causing you to narrow your eyes in confusion.
“W-what?” You stuttered.
“And if I am jealous?” Yoruichi asked, purposefully.
Your heart skipped a beat and your jaw dropped. What!?!
“W-wait! What?” You asked, causing a half hearted smile to appear on Yoruichi’s face.
“Do you really need me to say it again?” Yoruichi asked. A lazy smile appearing as she rested her back on her hand. “
You tried to say something but no words escaped you. Was she serious? Why would she be jealous? She knew you weren’t into blondes!
A snort from the other table reached your ear and you turned towards them with narrowed eyes, Yoruichi full on glaring at the couple.
“Unnatural.” The lady said distastefully as the man sneered at you both.
“Ho~?” You said, eyes narrowing further. If they didn’t mind their own business, you were going to personally send them to Rukongai…..if they made it there.
You schooled your features, letting a small amount of bloodlust escape as you smiled at the couple. Both of them paled before turning away from the two of you, sweating.
It was nowhere near Yachiru’s scary smile, but it would do.
Your smile turned vicious for a second before you turned towards Yoruichi, a teasing look set on your face. “I think they’ll leave us alone now.” You laughed slightly before saying “They’re nothing compared to the pricks in Soul Society.”
Yoruichi sweat dropped at you. “You know, sometimes I forget you were the lieutenant of the eleventh.”
Trying to hold back a snort, your hand flew to your mouth. “Oh please.” You said with a fond smile and a wave. “That was how long ago?”
Yoruichi deadpanned. “Long enough for you to be corrupted by Unohana-taicho.” Your smile turned sad.
Luckily, the arrival of the waiter gave you time to think over a response.
“Here you go ladies.” The dark haired man smiled at the two of you as he placed a plate in front of Yoruichi. “One Sesame-Yuzu seared Ahi tuna with wild mushroom mixed rice and a sesame cucumber salad.”
The look on Yoruichi’s face as she stared at the Tuna was priceless. Her eyes were gleaming in delight, a look of pure happiness on her face. You're pretty sure if her mouth was open, she would be drooling.
The waiter turned his smile towards you as he placed your plate down. “Our spicy mala steak with szechuan shrimp risotto and stir fried sesame green beans with our In-House chili crunch.”
Finally, the waiter placed one last plate between the two of you. “And finally, our pork and seafood dumpling platter with lobster shumai, shrimp and pork gyoza and lastly, pork and crab xiao long bao to share.”
Yoruichi was all but drooling at the food laid out between you two. You smiled back at the waiter and nodded in appreciation. “Thank you.”
“You're very welcome.” The waiter replied with a smile. “Is there anything else I can get for you today?”
Humming, you glanced around the table. Your drink was empty, and you're pretty sure you won’t be driving for a while….probably best if you get some water too. Turning to the waiter you asked kindly. “If I could get more sake please? And a glass of lemon water?”
The waiter nodded. “Sake and lemon water, got it.” He turned to Yoruichi after writing your order down. “And for you miss?”
Yoruichi smirked at you before turning to the waiter. “The same, please.”
“Of course.” He nodded. “I’ll be right back with your drinks.”
“Thank you.” You both chorused as he walked away.
Yoruichi’s smirk widened. “Water?”
“I’ll have to drive later.” You shrugged in response. “It’s best if I set a good example.”
“A good example?” Yoruichi snickered as she took a bite of her food. “For me? Didn’t you learn better back when you were teaching me?”
A grimace appeared on your face as you looked at your date. “Point taken.” You agreed, starting on your own meal. “I complained to Yachiru so much I’m pretty sure she was sick of hearing it. Especially after the fifth time.”
Yoruichi laughed before startling slightly. “Wait.” She asked, her eyes widened. “Were you ever not in the same squad as her?”
A hum escaped as you pretended to think the question over. Realistically, you didn’t even have to pause to find the answer. You could answer in your sleep.
“Huh.” You mumbled in mock-surprise. “Would you look at that? I don’t believe I ever left her side.”
Yoruichi’s eyes widened before she looked confused. “Wait. I know you were her lieutenant when she was captain of the eleventh? Dad said when she transferred to the fourth -!”
“I went with her.” You smiled, cutting her off.
“Her lieutenant was Yamada-kun.” Yoruichi argued.
‘Seinosuke-san, huh?’ You mused.
Seinosuke.
Yamada Seinosuke.
He was a hard working member of the fourth division and Yachiru actually had taken an interest in him almost immediately after he joined. His work ethic and skill with both Kido and Healing were some of the best ever seen out of the academy and he managed to work his way up fairly quickly, making it to fifth seat in only three years. Then third seat less than six months later.
His quick premotions caused some rumors, as was the case with most. Seinosuke’s though, led to a few fights between Yachi and You.
Every time you think of him, you couldn’t help but be reminded of those rumors and fights, but you mainly were reminded about how annoying he was. Constantly berating you , about paperwork or how you kept disappearing for one reason or another. Critiquing your healing, kido skills and control.
That’s not even mentioning the attitude he gave everyone but Yachiru.
You felt a twitch in your brow.
Fucking brat always acted like he was the lieutenant of the damn division. Yachiru was constantly amused by it and eventually started joking about it, calling the brat, Yamada-Fukutaicho. It happened so often that people just started to just assume that he was the fukutaicho. Well, everyone outside the division who wasn’t a lieutenant. Which was fine by you. If he wanted to act like the lieutenant then he could do the paperwork of the lieutenant.
At first, neglecting your paperwork, pissed Yachiru off but then she realized that you were still getting all the other lieutenant tasks done. So she eventually relented, so long as Yamamoto didn’t find out.
So Yamada started masquerading around like the lieutenant. Only the other lieutenant’s and the fourth division knew the truth.
Then eventually a rumor spread, and some people started to question the masquerade.
‘Probably doesn’t matter now.’ You mused. ‘Yachi probably jumped at the chance to get him into the lieutenant's spot.’
But surely Yoruichi knew that he wasn’t actually the lieutenant…right?
You smiled conspiratorially. “Hold on. Yoru? Are you saying even the great second division and Onmistsukido were fooled?”
Yoruichi narrowed her eyes as the waiter returned with your drinks. “What do you mean?”
Smiling at the waiter, your said your thanks before turning back to Yoruichi with a smirk. “You remember that little rumor that was floating around the Seireitei?” You asked.
“Which one?” Yoruichi deadpanned. “There were so many, it was hard to keep track.”
Your smirk only widened as you took a sip of your sake so she started to think for a minute. “You mean the one saying that Yamada-kun was third seat and you were fukutaicho?” Yoruichi asked, taking another bite of her tuna. “Yeah, I’ve heard it.” She agreed with a shrug before taking a sip of her water. “But there’s no way that was true. Seinosuke was the one who always attended the joint Captain and Lieutenant meetings.”
You snickered before taking a long sip of your own water. “Oyaji never said it had to be lieutenants present at those captain meetings.”
“Quit playing Ai, who else could be trusted to listen in on Captains meetings?” Yoruichi asked rhetorically with a roll of her eyes.
You tossed some hair over your shoulder, raising a brow. “Well for starters? Promising officers trusted by their captains? You would bring Kisuke and Shaoling with you sometimes.”
“Sometimes.” Yoruichi stressed. “But Yamada-kun was always at those meetings and Marenoshin said he was always at the lieutenant meetings too.”
“You sure Omaeda said it was Yamada?” You asked skeptically.
Those were the only meetings Seinosuke wasn’t allowed to attend. Well ... .those and the captain’s only meetings ... .and the meetings Yamamoto… recommended… you attend. Even if you stayed hidden behind a pillar.
You sweat dropped at the reminder.
How Yamamoto let your little charade keep going after he found out, you will never know.
….maybe it had to do with you the two of you getting together for tea several times a week…?
Yoruichi mused over your question as she chewed. “Now that you mention it….he never referred to him by name…only ‘Squad Four’s fukutaicho’. Weird.”
Now it was your turn to deadpan.
“Exactly. Because Yamada wasn’t the lieutenant, I was.” You reiterated.
Yoruichi stared at you, blank faced for a moment. Which was comical since she continued eating the entire time. “Why? If you were the lieutenant then why the ruse?”
“Paperwork.” You answered with a grimace.
A smile broke out on Yoruichi’s face. “If only that worked for captains.” She chuckled.
After getting a fancy crème brûlée and soufflé for dessert, along with some more sake, you paid for the meal ( It’s how much!?!) and grabbed your things from the coat check. Luckily it was the same attendant as before, so you tipped him another fifty bucks. You left Yoruichi by the fish tank again to quickly head into the bathroom and throw your bike clothes back on.
When you were done, the two of you went for a walk on the boardwalk. Neither of you said much, instead preferring to silently enjoy each other's company and the view of the water with the lights reflected on the surface.
It had already been a few minutes, the two of you walking and enjoying the quiet night, Yoruichi snuggled against your arm.
You glanced down at Yoruichi, the sudden movement making her look at you. Your breathing stopped and golden eyes glanced at you curiously. You knew how cheesy it sounded, yet you couldn’t help but think, that the way the moonlight reflected off her eyes? It made them glow like stars.
Almost in a trance, you reached up, grabbing one of the loose strands of hair that framed Yoruichi’s face and twirled it between your fingertips.
Yoruichi tilted her head slightly, exposing her neck. With a smirk, you bent down and kissed her pulse point.
“Ai.” Yoruichi purred. “You're playing with fire.”
Smirking against her skin, you kissed Yoruichi’s neck one more time before pulling away. Her eyes were lidded but still shone with disappointment. She let out a huff, letting go of your arm and crossing her own.
“You always stop way too soon.” Yoruichi said with a huff.
You chuckled before running a finger against Yoruichi’s face. The purple haired beauty leaned into your touch as you muttered. “Perhaps, I just want to continue when we’re alone?
“Sounds promising.” Yoruichi smirked, causing you to wink. Yoruichi wrapped herself around your arm again, squeezing it against her chest slightly as you continued on your walk.