DISCLAIMER - see chapter one

This chapter was mostly inspired by Taylor Swift's Fearless

The rest of the week was largely uneventful. School came and went, nothing in particular happened and soon it was the evening of the ball. After eating dinner the Urahara shop leapt into action. The girls went up to use the shower and get changed first while the men stayed down stairs, apart from Jinta who had to use the shower and leave first. He was heading over to the Kurosaki household to accompany Yuzu.

Urahara and Ulquiorra sat patiently at the table with Renji, who wasn't attending the ball. He would be in his Shinigami form and was accompanying them for security. Ikkaku and Yumichika were also outside waiting to go. Tessai was the only one not attending, preferring to get some time to himself for a change.

Soon enough it was Ulquiorra's turn to use the shower. On the way up he passed Ururu in her pretty white dress, but didn't see either of the others, though he knew he'd see them soon enough. Once he was out of the shower he shaved and brushed his teeth before pulling on a suit with a dark green silk sash at the waist with his black jacket over the top. After a few tries he gave up on the bowtie and hurried downstairs so that Urahara could get ready. Before heading down he stopped in his room to grab the small bag containing his gift to Orihime.

"Look at you! Come here!" Yoruichi half laughed as she saw Ulquiorra at the bottom of the stairs, his collar still upturned where he had been fiddling with the bowtie. As she approached Ulquiorra handed her the tie and stood patiently as she deftly tied and straitened it, pulling down his collar neatly afterwards.

"Arigato, have you seen Orihime?" Ulquiorra asked as he looked around the living area, not seeing the redhead anywhere.

"No, but there was a call for you, something about a ride or something?" The cat-like woman replied as she handed him the phone and a number. Seeing that Ulquiorra seemed to know what she was talking about Yoruichi shifted her attention to the stairs as Urahara came down in a similar state to Ulquiorra. With a sigh she tied his bowtie and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips since they were in the room alone.

"Now-now, what if Ulquiorra-san or Orihime-san came in." He teased as he rested his hands on her hips while hers remained on his shoulders. His suit was the same as Ulquiorra's except his sash was a deep red, which she was delighted to find almost matched the dress she had chosen. She could see Urahara's eyes creeping down to her breasts where the silk dress took a slight plunge. The dress had long sleeves and rested just off the shoulders, and the skirt was long and flowing.

"What if they do? They can prove nothing." Yoruichi teased as she released him and stepped back, watching his eyes follow the sway of her hips. Taking a slow turn she looked at him with a grin, "How do I look?" She asked impishly,

"Simply delectable; it's hard to resist the temptation to eat you up." Urahara replied with a predatory look in his eye and a charming smile on his lips as he took her hand and brought it to his lips. Deciding to play Yoruichi tugged her hand back before his lips could reach it and smirked,

"Well you'll just have to resist." She replied before walking into the kitchen to see if she could find Orihime. Urahara growled slightly as he watched her leave, knowing she had heard by the satisfied glance she gave him over his shoulder.

"Our transport is here." Ulquiorra announced as he came through from the shop, Urahara nodding in confusion. He hadn't ordered any transport, he had assumed that they would walk or order cabs, perhaps Ulquiorra-san did.

"Ladies, are we ready?" Urahara asked as he looked into the kitchen to see Yoruichi putting a little red on her lips, a very dark red that blended quite nicely with her natural brown skin. Ururu had a slight gloss to her lips, applied by Orihime, who had a little pink on her lips and nails.

"Hai!" Yoruichi replied as she put the lid back on the lipstick and returned it to a makeup bag that Urahara didn't recognise. He guessed it belonged to Orihime. The girls hurried through the shop, Yoruichi's arm looped through Urahara's as they went, her hand clutching a small black purse. Outside they stopped and stared in astonishment at the vehicle that awaited. It was a long black limousine.

"Hurry up, we have to pick up a few more people." Ulquiorra stated as he held the door open for them. Ururu was the first to enter, smiling at Ulquiorra as he held her hand and helped her in. When Orihime approached he held her back and motioned for Urahara and Yoruichi to go in first, stepping away from the long car with Orihime. "I bought you something to go with your dress." He said as he handed her the bag,

"Ulquiorra! You really didn't have to!" Orihime exclaimed in surprise, a light blush rising to her cheeks as she reached in and pulled out a long silk wrap. It was just thick enough to wrap around her shoulders and back and long enough to rest comfortably in the crook of her arms without dragging along the floor, "Arigato! It's beautiful!" She said as she wrapped it around herself comfortably,

"Consider it something to remember me by." Ulquiorra replied with a warm smile, Orihime frowning slightly at his words, though she didn't have time to dwell on them as Ulquiorra tugged her towards the limousine. Once inside the driver pulled out of the yard and began heading up the road to the next house.

"How many stops are we making?" Yoruichi asked as she looked around the spacious inside of the limo. She was sharing a long curved sofa with Urahara and Ururu while Ulquiorra and Orihime sat on the one to their right. There was enough space for about ten others at a squeeze.

"Three." Ulquiorra replied as he lifted a bottle of champagne and popped it open, slowly pouring a glass before handing it across to Urahara, who gave it to Yoruichi. He received one of his own a moment later. Ulquiorra himself had never tried alcohol, nor had Orihime, though she decided to try it since Ulquiorra offered it. For Ururu Ulquiorra poured out an orange juice, all five leisurely sipping their drinks as they watched the town fly by.

There were also chocolates, which they all tried, as well as roses for the ladies. Orihime looked at Ulquiorra warmly, knowing that he had planned all of this for them. It was a very kind gesture, almost as if he was trying to tell them something. Before she could delve into it the limousine came to a stop outside a large apartment building that Orihime didn't recognise.

Ulquiorra climbed out and hurried over to one of the doors, returning a few moments later. They waited for a few minutes before Sado appeared at the door and climbed in, sitting on the third sofa part opposite Ulquiorra. The limousine then moved towards its next destination.

It was a place Orihime vaguely recognised as being near where Ishida lived, in fact she was proved right as Ishida appeared at the door in shock. It was rare to see a limousine in these parts, let alone ride in them. He was a little cold to Ulquiorra, but a lot less than normal, almost as if he had decided to back off for a while. Perhaps that's Ishida-kun's way of saying thank you…Orihime thought as the limousine stopped again. This time she definitely knew the area as Ishida got out.

Ishida made his way to the door of the house, double checking the address on a small piece of paper before knocking. Ishida checked that his dark blue sash was straight and ran his hand through his ebony locks self consciously as he waited for the door to open. Once it did he was speechless seeing Tatsuki in her black dress, her hair slightly less spiked than usual.

"Konbanwa." She said with a smile as she stepped out with a small black handbag slung over her shoulder. Ishida subconsciously ran his fingers through his hair again before replying,

"Konbanwa, you look…very appealing." He complimented, blushing slightly as Tatsuki laughed, "Gomen, I didn't want to use the word 'nice,' it doesn't seem enough in this case." Ishida excused as he offered Tatsuki his arm, watching as she threaded her arm through his awkwardly,

"It's fine, I just-whoa!" She exclaimed as she saw the limousine, stopping in her tracks. Ishida smiled at her and nodded his understanding, after all he had done the same thing. The clicking of her sandal heels continued as she allowed Ishida to guide her to the door and help her inside, where she took the place beside Orihime. The redhead took no time in showing her wrap to her friend and offering her a glass of champagne and chocolates, as well as the rose that had been left for her.

"This was a really nice idea Ulquiorra! How much did all this cost?" Orihime asked as Ulquiorra refilled her glass for her. With a smile Ulquiorra handed her glass back before leaning in to her ear,

"Nothing compared to what your smile is worth." He replied, looking out of the window as he pulled back. He knew her cheeks would be a deep shade of red right now, and that was enough to satisfy him as he looked out of the window, determined to enjoy his last night at her side. The bracelet was already tucked away safely in his jacket pocket, which was buttoned shut. Strange…I feel somewhat melancholic…

"We're here!" Yoruichi observed as the limousine pulled into the school, where there were already four other limousines parked. As they climbed out Ulquiorra pressed a card into Yoruichi's hand,

"Show this to the driver and he will take you home." He instructed before helping Orihime out of the car and looping her arm through his, followed by Ishida and Tatsuki as they walked inside. Sado paused beside the car as Ururu climbed out before taking her hand, Yoruichi laughing quietly at the sight.

"Sado-kun is a very kind young man." Urahara observed as he watched Ururu hurrying alongside him. When Jinta had been invited to the Ball by Yuzu this left Ururu at a loose end. She had been quite sad about it, and Jinta felt bad for her, but luckily Sado, who didn't have a date, dropped by and offered to go with Ururu. This worked for Urahara, it meant he could give his undivided attention to Yoruichi for a change.

"I'll get it!" Ichigo shouted as he hurried to the front door, surprised to find Toshiro waiting in a suit much like his own with a deep red sash. "Toshiro!" Ichigo exclaimed as he looked down at the white haired boy.

"That's Hitsugaya-taicho." The boy replied as he walked past into the house with his hands in his pockets, looking fairly disgruntled. No matter how hard he tried he couldn't get used to the tight neck of the shirt, especially since Matsumoto had done his bowtie up so tightly.

"What are you doing here? Did something happen?" Ichigo asked anxiously, the young captain looking slightly awkward and embarrassed as he looked around the living room for Karin.

"Toshiro!" Karin's voice called from the top of the stairs, the white haired boy looking up at her with a slight flush. Karin hurried to the bottom of the stairs with a grin, wearing a simple black dress and high heels. Ichigo had never seen his sister in high heels, in fact he had never thought he would, at least not until high school.

"That dress suits you." Toshiro replied with a small bow, and Ichigo finally caught on. Karin had mentioned a date, but he had never expected Toshiro, though I guess I should have after that night a few weeks ago…

"Who now?" Ichigo wondered aloud as he returned to the door and opened it once again, his jaw dropping as he came face to face with the unlikeliest couple. Byakuya stood stiffly before him in a suit matching his own with the same red sash, and on his arm was Soi Fon, who wore a long flowing black gown. It was the same style as the yellow one she had looked at, but yellow seemed too summery for a Christmas Ball.

"Nii-sama! Soi Fon-taicho!" Rukia exclaimed as she appeared at Ichigo's side and eased him aside to allow Byakuya and his date into the house. She shut the door and laughed quietly as Ichigo remained where he was with a stunned look, "Ichigo." She said as she jabbed his stomach, the Vizard looking down bewildered.

"Ah! Gomen!" He apologised, his expression becoming shocked for an entirely new reason as he took in Rukia's appearance. She looked truly lovely in her dress, which was a deep midnight blue silk gown that swept down to her toes, which were covered by matching shoes. "You look good." He added awkwardly,

"Only 'good?'" Rukia asked, feigning hurt as she looked up at him with her big blue eyes, holding back a smirk as she noticed his trousers tighten slightly.

"Better than good, much much better." He added as he rested his hands on her hips and leaned down so that their foreheads were touching. Hearing a loud cough they turned to see Isshin and the others watching them, "Gomen." Ichigo apologised sheepishly as he pulled back, keeping one hand on the small of Rukia's back.

"Is Jinta-kun here yet?" Yuzu called as she hurried down in her yellow dress, Jinta standing up awkwardly from the sofa with a bow, where he had been sitting with Isshin. Judging by the look on the boy's face Ichigo could guess the content of that conversation. His father was very protective of his daughters, especially Yuzu.

"Looks like we're all here." Isshin observed as he did a quick head count. Outside there was the sound of a horn that signalled their ride was there. Opening the door Ichigo was surprised to see a white limousine parked on the curb, "Nice choice Byakuya-san!" Isshin complimented as he looked over his son's shoulder,

"You knew about this?" Ichigo exclaimed as his father turned to help his daughters into their coats, though Toshiro had already beaten him to Karin,

"Byakuya-san said he'd bring the transport." He replied, Ichigo snorting quietly. I should have known, of course a noble wouldn't want to arrive on foot or in a small car!

The ride to the school had been somewhat quiet, Byakuya and Soi Fon looking everywhere but each other as they sat stiffly side by side, Rukia was cuddled into Ichigo's chest, Karin sat beside Toshiro talking to him quietly about football and Yuzu spoke about the shop with Jinta while her father watched over proceedings protectively. He was already too late for Karin, he wasn't going to let Yuzu get corrupted.

At the school Ichigo climbed out first, holding his hand out for Rukia so that he could help her step from the car, followed by Toshiro and Karin and then Isshin, who helped Yuzu out himself, shooting a glare at Jinta, who looked intimidated. Byakuya was next to exit and as Soi Fon was about to follow she was surprised to find the noble's hand held out for her elegantly.

"Arigato." She murmured with a slightly blush of discomfort as he helped her to her feet. When Yoruichi had found her a date she had never expected it would be Byakuya, and to say she was displeased would be an understatement. She was furious and humiliated. Byakuya made no response as he looped her arm through his and led her into the school, shooting a glare at Yoruichi as soon as he saw her.

"I should never have trusted that woman." Byakuya muttered, remember how Yoruichi had come to him claiming she wanted to start over and had found him a date to save him the trouble. At the time it hadn't bothered him, but once he found out it was Soi Fon he couldn't help but feel displeased. She wasn't a noble, and the last thing he needed were more rumours about him getting involved with peasants.

"Don't talk about Yoruichi-sama in that disrespectful manner!" Soi Fon snapped as she looked at Byakuya sharply, the noble giving her his own sharp look. This is what they had been doing for the past hour or so since they met. She was overly loyal to Yoruichi while the purple haired feline was the tormentor of his youth, and apparently adulthood.

"When Shihoin Yoruichi gains respect for my noble status perhaps I will refer to her in a more positive manner." Byakuya replied, knowing it would be a hot day in Hueco Mundo before that happened. At his side Soi Fon flushed slightly, unable to think of a defence for that. Though he was finding her frustrating Byakuya couldn't complain much. She was a Captain, she was attractive and she had a slight fire that made her feisty. "Perhaps we should put Yoruichi aside." The noble suggest, the idea of arguing for the whole night not at all appealing.

"Hai…" Soi Fon replied, falling silent shortly after. Byakuya felt a similar pause in his own speech. Aside from knowing Yoruichi, Byakuya had no idea what they had in common. He had been a Captain for over fifty years, as had Soi Fon, yet he had never spoken to her unless it was required. In fact he had spoken to few Captains while off duty, and rarely anyone else outside his own Squad.

"You…serve the Shihoin household?" Byakuya asked hesitantly, unsure what else to talk about.

"No. Since Yoruichi-sama abandoned her post as Captain and I attained the rank I have had little time for the Shihoin house." Soi Fon replied, wondering if she should ask questions of her own or just answer his. She didn't want to insult a noble after all. "What of you and your noble duties? Does your captaincy interfere with them?" She asked warily, flicking her dark eyes around the crowded room of people.

"Not at all. Truth be told there aren't many noble duties that require my direct attention, and I keep on top of the paperwork." Byakuya replied simply, unable to think of many questions. He really had no experience socializing with the lower classes, so all of his practiced conversation topics were about politics that Soi Fon was unlikely to be fluent in.

"How about training? Do you keep up with that?" Soi Fon asked, afraid that another silence would build up.

"Not as often as I would prefer. It is difficult to train when there is no one at your level." He replied, which may have sounded egotistical to some, but Soi Fon had seen Byakuya fight. He was good, clearly one of the best among the Gotei Thirteen.

"I find a similar problem. I haven't trained seriously for three months." Soi Fon sighed as she looked across the room, where Yoruichi was slow dancing with Urahara, a sight that made her cringe. She wouldn't say that she hated Kisuke, but she certainly disliked him for taking up so much of Yoruichi's time. Before Yoruichi explained things she had also blamed Kisuke for the incident over a hundred years ago when Yoruichi had abandoned Soul Society and went into hiding after helping Urahara and Tessai escape from Room Forty Six. It was now no secret that Urahara had been set up, but at the time Soi Fon had felt hurt and betrayed.

"Do they bother you?" Byakuya asked curiously as he noticed the direction of her sulky glare, though he would never say aloud that she looked sulky. That would be churlish peasant behaviour not worthy of a noble. Soi Fon looked back at him with a slight flush in her cheeks,

"Not at all." She snapped in reply, closing her eyes for a few moments and refusing to look in Yoruichi's direction again. Byakuya looked closely at the young woman at his side. He was rapidly finding that she was nothing like he had imagined her to be. He had imagined her to be serious and unemotional all the time, yet here she was pouting like a child.

"It seems Shihoin Yoruichi has a talent for inciting unwanted emotion in others." He said as he looked across at the mischievous subject of their conversation, who was laughing brightly as Urahara whispered something in her ear. He had known for some time that there was more than just a strong friendship between her and the shopkeeper, though it interested him little.

"You too?" Soi Fon said in surprise, the noble nodding beside her.

"She often used to come to my estate with my grandfather in my youth. She was my tormentor, doing everything possible to stir me up. It was her torment that led to my developed Shunpo. I had to get faster so that I could catch her, but I never did." Byakuya revealed, watching a small smile cross Soi Fon's lips. Apparently this was a familiar thing for her also, though he expected the teasing was probably different in her case.

"Hey! Byakuya-san!" An overly cheerful voice called. Byakuya turned to find Ichigo's father making his way over, holding back a sigh. Instead he settled for a slight closing of the eyes before giving the human his full attention. "Are you enjoying the ball? Don't forget to talk to Rukia's teacher and find out how she's doing, that's why we're here after all." Isshin instructed as he slapped Byakuya's shoulder, the noble gritting his teeth slightly at the contact. No one treated him so familiarly, except perhaps Ichigo.

"I shall, when I get the chance." Byakuya replied simply, Soi Fon watching the exchange carefully. She could tell by the slight straightening of Byakuya's spine that he was out of his comfort zone, something she could also relate to.

"And who is this charming young lady? I don't believe we've been introduced properly." Isshin said as he turned his attention to Soi Fon with a charming smile that she found distasteful. She was grateful that Ichigo hadn't inherited this side of his father's personality, especially as he kissed her hand in a gentlemanly manner.

"This is Soi Fon. Soi Fon, let me present Kurosaki Isshin, Ichigo-san's father." Byakuya introduced as Soi Fon's cheeks turned slightly red. She pulled her hand out of Isshin's grip and nodded to him politely, holding back from wiping her hand on her dress. It wasn't that Isshin had left wet kisses on her skin, it was just that Soi Fon found this sort of thing distasteful.

"Charmed I'm sure, so how long have you two been together?" Isshin asked as he looked back and forth between them, holding back a laugh at their expressions. Byakuya gave no reaction other than a slight widening of his deep dark eyes while Soi Fon's cheeks turned red, a look of shock marring her features.

"You misunderstand. We are work colleagues only." Byakuya excused, Soi Fon nodding her firm agreement, not that she found Byakuya unattractive, and the same was true of Byakuya.

"You brought a work colleague as a date to a ball?" Isshin prompted teasingly,

"Hai. We are friends, so I agreed to come at Yoruichi-sama's request." Soi Fon replied, which was close enough to the truth. It seemed Isshin still doubted them, but let it drop as a dark haired woman approached with a bright smile.

"Well, whatever the case I insist you come to my house for Christmas." He said as the woman latched onto his arm, "Konbanwa Arisawa-san, I was wondering when you would appear." He added in greeting to the woman at his side, giving her a warm smile before returning his attention to the couple before him.

"I really wouldn't want to impose on you at such an…important time of year." Soi Fon objected with a somewhat forced smile. In truth she had never really grasped the importance of Christmas, though of course she had celebrated it on many occasions. In her youth she had spent it with her family, and then with Yoruichi. After that she didn't bother to celebrate it, though her squad insisted on throwing parties.

"Christmas is about family! Of course you have to come!" Isshin exclaimed as Byakuya closed his eyes again. He still believes we are romantically involved.

"We would be delighted." Byakuya replied politely with a slight incline of his head, his eyes shifting to Soi Fon, who nodded her agreement. It was easier to be polite and agree than risk offence by refusal, "Soi Fon, would you care to dance?" Byakuya asked, not waiting for a response as he took her hand and led her to the dance floor, nodding to Isshin to excuse them.

"Kuchiki-san…This probably isn't the best time to tell you but." Soi Fon began as Byakuya rested one hand on her waist and held her hand with a gentle yet firm grip. As he took a step and pulled her along Soi Fon stumbled and looked up at him with an embarrassed blush, "I don't know how to dance." She added as she tried to straighten up, resting her hand gingerly on his firm shoulder.

"Simply follow my feet." He replied, thankful that it was a fairly slow song playing at that moment. Across the room Rukia was dancing with Ichigo, or perhaps swaying was a more ample word. She had her arms wrapped around his shoulders while he had hers around her waist so that there was barely an inch between them.

"This is nice." Rukia sighed as she snuggled into Ichigo's shoulder, feeling his intake of breath against the top of her head. Her reply was a low hum of agreement along with a slight tightening of his arms around her waist.

"Hey Rukia, look over there." Ichigo said in an amused voice as he nodded over to Byakuya, where Rukia could see him standing with Soi Fon in his arms, both slightly apart. It seemed he was teaching her to dance as she looked down at their feet and tried to follow.

"Nii-sama seems to be having fun." Rukia replied as she looked at her brother's stoic face, but beneath that she could see the warmth in his eyes. Perhaps this was something he did with Hisana-nee…She thought as she returned her attention to Ichigo. "I can't wait to get home tonight." She sighed as she leaned her head on his chest,

"Oh?" Ichigo said questioningly, the Shinigami looking up at him impishly,

"Well, my back is all healed now…" She replied suggestively as she stood on tiptoe and pressed a small kiss to his lips. With a small smirk Ichigo leaned down and more firmly captured her lips, neither noticing as a small pink blur whizzed by.

"Yachiru-chan!" Hanataro called as he hurried after the smaller girl, who was overly excited about the ball. She had never been to a ball like this, so she was in full explorer mode as she darted about the hall. To keep pace with her Hanataro had abandoned his jacket in the coat room, leaving him in his bowtie, tied by Yumichika, white shirt and red sash, also fastened by Yumichika.

"Come on Hana-Hana!" Yachiru cried as she stopped in the middle of the crowded dance floor with a bright smile. She was wearing a pink dress, slightly darker than her hair, that was tied with a bow at the back and flowed down to the top of her ankles, leaving her pink sandals in full view. She looked very pretty.

"Hai-hai!" The medic replied as he hurried forward, running a hand self-consciously through his newly cut hair. When Yumichika had dragged him to the hairdressers he had been expecting just a trim, a tidy up, but what he got was quite different. His hair was extremely short at the back, but gradually lengthened at the front, where it reached his jaw line, and his bangs had been brushed out to the sides so he didn't have a fringe. He had to admit it did look nice, but he still wasn't sure it was really 'him.'

"Dance Hana-Hana!" Yachiru ordered as she jumped into his chest, the medic blushing and stumbling back a few steps as he pried her off. With a smile he took her hands and placed them on his shoulders while he rested his on her hips and led her in a small circle. "Faster Hana-Hana!" Yachiru ordered impatiently,

"But Yachiru-chan, this is a slow song. You're supposed to dance slowly." Hanataro replied anxiously as the small pink haired girl frowned and pouted cutely, "I'm sure the next song will be a lot faster." He added, this seeming to appease the small girl, who broke into a smile and swayed contentedly. Not far off Ishida was slowly dancing with Tatsuki, both surprised that the other could dance.

"You just didn't seem like the dancing type." Ishida replied with a small smile, Tatsuki laughing loudly as he turned her in a circle,

"You thought I was just a tom boy?" She retorted, laughing louder at Ishida's sheepish blush. As they continued their banter Sado stood at the edge of the floor with Ururu, who stood on a chair so that she could dance with him. They didn't really talk about anything, Ururu was too shy and Sado didn't have much to say. They got a lot of odd stares from the younger students, but the adults thought it was kind the way Sado had offered to take this small girl to the Ball.

"Ururu looks like she's having fun." Yoruichi said quietly as she leaned her head on Urahara's shoulder, enjoying the musty scent of his suit and hair. In all their time apart this was what she missed the most, his comforting scent. Looking over at the young girl Urahara could help but smile,

"Yes, this night turned out quite well don't you think?" He added, pressing a small kiss to her shoulder so that no one would notice. It was hard having her in his arms but not being able to kiss her properly, however it was fun taking a few small chances at being found out. It added a thrill to the relationship.

"Excuse me, would you be Schiffer-san's parents?" A woman's voice asked, both of them turning to see a young woman with long brown hair and glasses. Judging by the question they correctly assumed that this woman was his teacher.

"Ah, no. Ulquiorra-san is my nephew, I'm afraid his parents died in a car accident not so long ago. This is Shihoin Yoruichi, my partner." He added as he rested his hand on the small of Yoruichi's back and smiled at her. Yoruichi smiled and nodded her agreement as she shook hands with the young woman and went on to talk about Ulquiorra's progress. Not far off Toshiro was dancing slowly with Karin, who was curious about the pretty girl with dark hair that Toshiro was keeping an eye on.

"Hinamori Momo, she's a very important friend of mine…We've been together since we were children; she was the only family I ever knew." Toshiro explained as he looked across at his childhood friend, who was currently dancing with Hisagi. Karin nodded her understanding as she looked at her own sister, who was laughing at something Jinta had said,

"I guess I know the feeling. Yuzu and I are twins, so we've always been together. I'd say we're closer than anyone else in our family." She replied with a warm look, returning her attention to Toshiro. Shifting her gaze again she couldn't help but wonder if perhaps she could ever be as cute as that Hinamori girl.

"You look really nice." Hisagi complimented as he held Hinamori gently in his arms. She was wearing a long flowing black dress with a matching silk bun cover in her hair, the same general shape and style as her usual turquoise one. Instead of having her bangs thick she had just two small locks of hair at the sides of her head, both slightly curled, and her fringe was elegantly swept to the side.

"Arigato Hisagi-kun…You look very handsome too." She added, having never seen him in a human suit before. It looked really good on him, even if it did hide his muscular body. He looked very refined, though he still kept a touch of his roguish looks due to the tattoo and scars on his cheeks. At the door Yumichika took a peek inside, smiling warmly at the sight of Hanataro and Yachiru having so much fun.

"Yumichika! Anything going on down there?" Ikkaku's voice called from a tree, the beautiful Shinigami quickly using Shunpo to appear at his friends side. With a sigh Yumichika perched on the edge of the tree branch,

"Nothing at all." He replied in satisfaction. So far there had been no Hollow activity whatsoever, even in the town, where Renji had gone patrolling with Kira. Matsumoto was up on the roof, not even visible from were they sat, nor were they paying attention. If they had been paying attention they may have noticed that the Covert Ops operative keeping an eye on Rangiku had been knocked unconscious.

On the roof Rangiku sat on the edge of the wall looking out at the lit up town, the stars shining down from above. She could tell everyone was having fun, there was a slightly elated feel to their reiatsu, but even though she was glad they were having fun she couldn't feel happy herself. She was so worried about everything that had happened concerning Gin. He hadn't been found yet, so she had no idea if he was alright, and not only that but she was in trouble too.

The Covert Ops was keeping a close eye on her, in fact she knew there was one sitting in a tree below watching her, just waiting for her to put a foot out of line. The problem was that Gin had no idea she was being watched, so if he did suddenly show up she would be in trouble.

"Gin, you baka! You better be okay!" She said quietly, knowing that she couldn't be heard from where she was, besides it was now a well known fact that she loved the silver haired idiot. She couldn't help it if she was glad he'd escaped.

"Careful what ya say Ran-chan. Anyone could hear ya up here." A familiar voice said, her heart skipping a beat as she looked over her shoulder to see Gin, only he looked a little different. He'd obviously cleaned up a lot and had his hair trimmed, but as well as that he seemed to be wearing a Gigai.

"What are you doing? I'm being watched by an operative!" Rangiku hissed in alarm as she turned to face him, her eyes darting around worriedly. She had expected to find a group of operatives surrounding her at any minute, but so far nothing had happened,

"I know, I had ya friend sleep for a while." He replied simply as he approached and nodded towards the tree, where Rangiku could just see the black outline of the operative slumped in the tree.

"Are you insane? They'll think I did it, or at best they'll figure out I've had contact with you!" She snapped in reply as she turned back to Gin and found herself staring at his chest. She felt his hands on her hips, slowly guiding her away from the edge of the wall to the centre of the roof.

"I know, don't worry Ran. You can tell them ya saw me, it doesn't matter. They can't find me as long as I wear this." He replied as he held up his arm, pulling his sleeve down to show her a delicate silver bracelet. It was only then that she realised she couldn't feel him. Usually she could feel his reiatsu, but it was like he wasn't really standing there. "Aporro-Granz made these. They blot out your reiatsu so that only Arrancar can find you, and ya can pass through objects at will. I only have ta appear ta who I want ta see me, and right now you're the only one. Humans and Shinigami can just walk right through me, they wouldn't even know I was there." He explained as he pulled Rangiku closer and began to slow dance with her,

"Gin, what are you doing?" Rangiku asked in confusion as she followed his lead, the two of them just dancing beneath the moonlight to the music coming from the crowded hall.

"Dancing with you Ran-chan, what did ya think?" He retorted with a mischievous smile as he looked down at her, though Rangiku didn't seem to see the humour of the situation.

"You know what I meant! What are you doing here?" She asked, her expression telling him she expected a serious answer this time.

"When I got through I began ta follow some of your friends around, and I heard about this ball. It sounded fun, so I decided ta come and see ya, that's all…I just wanted ta see ya Ran." He added as he pulled her a little closer, the strawberry blonde smiling as she leaned her head on his chest and let him lead her.

"Baka." She said quietly, Gin smiling as he leaned his head on hers, making sure to keep an eye on the operative. He didn't want the guy to wake up and see Ran swaying up here on her own, it would look a little suspicious.

"Orihime…I am glad I came here." Ulquiorra said as they slow danced, the redhead beaming up at him as she stepped a little closer. "Living with Urahara and going to school…It has been a unique experience." He added with a far off look, his tone troubling Orihime. He had been talking like this all evening, almost as if he was trying to tell her something, but she couldn't figure out what.

"Ulquiorra, I'm glad you're here too…I never thought I'd say this when I first met you, but…I…I…" Orihime trailed off, her cheeks turning red as her grip on his shoulders tightened. Why can't I say it? Why can't I just tell him I like him?

"Ladies and Gentleman, can I have your attention please!" A voice from the stage called. Orihime and Ulquiorra turned with everyone else to see the Principal on stage, along with a small table that held a delicate tiara with a bouquet of flowers and an elegant crown with a golden sceptre. "It is time to name the Snow King and Snow Queen of this year's Christmas Ball!" He announced, a cheer sounding at the announcement.

There were a series of loud murmurs as the girls of the room stood together or beside their dates excitedly, though the men seemed slightly less enthusiastic about the whole affair. The only consolation about being crowned King was that you got to stand beside a pretty girl for a few photos and have a slow dance with her.

"Alright, our judges have determined that the Snow Queen of Karakura High School this year is…Inoue Orihime-san!" The middle aged man announced with a smile as he looked expectantly out at the crowd. Beside him Orihime looked shocked, almost horrified as a spotlight swept the crowd and found her. Seeing that she wasn't moving Ulquiorra rested a gentle hand on the small of her back and led her towards the stage steps.

At the steps she looked back at him anxiously, the Espada smiling warmly and nodding for her to continue. Taking a deep breath Orihime walked up onto the stage, her cheeks bright red as the principle smiled and placed the tiara on her head, taking her hand as he handed her the bouquet of winter flowers, most of them red and purple.

"Congratulations Inoue-san, and now for our Snow King." The principle continued as he released Orihime and left her standing idly beside him on the stage. "The Snow King of Karakura High School this year is…Schiffer Ulquiorra-san!" He announced, the spotlight falling on a mildly surprised Ulquiorra, who was still at the bottom of the stairs where he had stayed to wait for Orihime. Stepping onto the stage Ulquiorra bent down slightly so that the principle could put the crown on his head and hand him the sceptre. "Ladies and Gentleman, your Snow King and Snow Queen!" The middle aged man presented as he stepped away.

Ulquiorra and Orihime linked arms and stood patiently as cheers went up and pictures were taken, confetti falling from above the stage like snow. Looking at Orihime Ulquiorra could tell she was still nervous, but excited at the same time. She beamed at him genuinely as the cameras flashed at them, though they slowly died down and then the principle returned to the stage.

"Will the Snow King and Snow Queen please take their places and lead the next dance!" He ordered, Yoruichi taking the flowers and sceptre as they walked down the steps. Once at the centre of the floor Orihime seemed to go pale, the eyes of everyone in the school watching as Ulquiorra slowly took her in his arms. Orihime gripping his shoulders painfully as she stood close to him, her arms quivering slightly at all the attention she was receiving.

"Relax." Ulquiorra breathed in her ear, feeling another shiver run through her as he smiled and nuzzled her neck gently. As the music played they danced slowly, other couples gradually joining them on the dance floor, and then the attention was gone. Orihime relaxed into his hold and her nervous quivering stopped, her head leaning on his shoulder in relief.

"I was so nervous!" She giggled quietly as she pulled back a little, Ulquiorra smiling as he nodded his agreement,

"Hai, you were shaking the whole time." He agreed, watching the redhead blush in embarrassment, "Don't worry, I doubt anyone noticed." He assured gently as he took another look around the crowded room at all the friends he had made. Ururu, Urahara, Yoruichi, Ichigo, Rukia, Sado, Jinta, even Tatsuki. I will miss them greatly…

"Ulquiorra…Is something wrong? You've been a little strange tonight…" Orihime said quietly, Ulquiorra trying not to let anything show on his face as he pulled back.

"I assure you I am quite well Orihime." He replied as he pulled her closer again, she is beginning to get suspicious…I must leave before she discovers my intentions…He thought as he took in her scent. It was so light and familiar, yet he couldn't quite place it. "If I had a heart, I know it would have belonged to you." He whispered before pulling back,

"What?" Orihime said. She had heard, she just didn't think she'd heard correctly, but all Ulquiorra did was smile before turning and disappearing into the crowd, heading in the direction of the main doors. He wouldn't…He decided to stay! She thought as he disappeared from sight. For some reason she couldn't move, go after him! Move! Move! Move! But she was frozen to the spot until suddenly his reiatsu disappeared. Ulquiorra was gone.

Looking at the bracelet on his wrist Ulquiorra turned back to the open doors of the school, knowing that at least Orihime will have realised he had disappeared. I have to hurry…Gomenasai Orihime. He thought as he turned his back, though there was a strange tug in his chest that wanted him to turn around, go back, take Orihime in his arms and…and then he wasn't sure what, but the urge was strong.

Ignoring this urge Ulquiorra began to walk away, using Sonido as soon as he reached the main street. There was only one place big enough for a Garganta where no one would see it, and he wasn't the only one who knew that. I have to hurry.

Orihime ran to the door, barging through couples as she went. Outside she looked around, her chest heaving slightly as she began to worry. What if I can't get to him in time? What if I can't stop him? She thought frantically, panic beginning to grip her chest as her eyes darted about the car park,

"Orihime? What happened?" Tatsuki asked worriedly as she came up behind Orihime, knowing something was wrong since she had been one of the couples barged out of the way. The redhead turned with a single tear falling down her cheek. That was all Tatsuki needed, "Ishida! Round them up!" She shouted at the doorway, where the Quincy had been waiting for instructions.

"Ulquiorra's gone." Orihime said tearfully, Tatsuki nodding her understanding as she wrapped an arm around her friend's shoulders.

"It's okay, we'll find him, but where did he go?" Tatsuki asked, the redhead shaking her head. If Ulquiorra's going he'll have used a Garganta, there's no way we can stop him! He's probably already gone! "Alright! Ulquiorra's gone, let's split up and find him!" Tatsuki instructed, Orihime remaining in her own thoughts, wait! What was is Toshiro-kun said? They found Ulquiorra last time because…Because the park is one of the only places big enough! The park! It has to be the park!

"Inoue!" Ichigo shouted after her as she took off, but as he went to follow he felt Rukia's restraining hand on his wrist. "Rukia?" He said in confusion as he looked back at the petite girl, who had a firm look on her face.

"Don't worry. I know where she's going." She assured as she took out her Soul Candy, Ichigo nodding as he pulled his Substitute Badge out of his pocket and looked at Tatsuki. The sporty girl nodded, she would hide his body somewhere for him.

By this point Orihime had already turned the corner and was running in the direction of the park, which wasn't all that far from the school. Up above the sky had clouded over and the temperature had risen slightly, but Orihime didn't have time to stop to catch her breath and think about how hot she was. The only thing she could think about was Ulquiorra.

The way he smiled at her when she entered the classroom, the way he let her clutch his arm when she was scared, the way he comforted her when she was sad, the way he whispered her name in her ear, how he looked when he was asleep, his comforting scent, the feel of his protective arms around her and most of all the way his eyes warmed up when he looked at her. He can't leave! Ulquiorra!

Her heels clicked loudly on the pavement as she ran through the town, the few people out looking at her strangely. It wasn't everyday you saw a beautiful young woman running down the street in a white gown with a tiara. She looked like a princess. Her heart pounded, her legs ached and her ears were filled by the sound of her breathing.

She cried out as she stumbled, her ankle twisting painfully, but still she didn't stop. Stumbling again she pulled off her shoes and continued running, her feet screaming out as she ran down the rough path. Finally the park came into view, but she couldn't be too happy, she could feel Ulquiorra's reiatsu again, and she could see the first signs of the Garganta.

Ulquiorra sighed as he looked at the silver bracelet in his hand. He had just pressed the button and already a thin black strip was beginning to form in the air before him. All he had to do was use his reiatsu and force it open, then he could step through. He'd be in Hueco Mundo, where he belonged. I should never have come here in the first place…emotions just complicate things.

Reaching out his hand Ulquiorra sliced it through the Garganta, pouring his reiatsu into it and watching as it opened into a large jagged hole. He could see nothing on the other side as yet, he would have to wait until it was solidified before he could step through.

As he waited he couldn't help but think about Orihime and all they had been through. He had kidnapped her, and been very cruel, but despite that she had taken him in when he found himself stranded. She had accepted him for who and what he was. She took him to lunch, the arcade, the movies, got him involved with her friends…She did more for me than I ever deserved.

As the door solidified into an oblong he began to pick out the rough horizon of Hueco Mundo. It didn't take that much longer before he could clearly see the calm desert on the other side, the reverse crescent moon shining down and the cool sandy air blowing through to caress his cheek. Home sweet home…

With a sigh Ulquiorra took one last look at the world that had, for a short time, been his home. I will be glad to be rid of these emotions. He thought as regret and sadness tugged at his heart. It was time to step through, so he started walking.

"Ulquiorra! Wait!" Orihime's voice cried, Ulquiorra's eyes widening as he felt a firm pressure on his back, red hair billowing out on either side as a pair of arms wrapped around him. Ulquiorra stopped in his tracks, just three steps away from Hueco Mundo. As he stopped he could feel Orihime shaking as she cried into the back of his black jacket, her small hands gripping his shirt tightly,

"Orihime…" He said quietly, cursing her for coming. It was going to be much harder to leave with her here.

"Ulquiorra!" Another voice cried, the Arrancar turning to see another unwelcome face. Ichigo had appeared a few feet away, Rukia appearing not long after. Further off he could feel more Shinigami, though none had made a move to stop him yet. A moment later he was confronted by Yoruichi, Urahara and Ururu, who looked at him like a hurt puppy.

"Please don't go." Orihime said quietly as she cried against his back, her grip loosening as Ulquiorra took her hands and gently pried them away. She looked up as he turned to her with sad green eyes, his forehead leaning on her gently.

"I cannot stay here Orihime. Ishida was correct. I am Hollow, I will always be Hollow. Nothing will ever change that." He replied quietly, the redhead gripping his hands tightly as tears spilled down her cheeks.

"You think that's an excuse? So you're a Hollow? You think we give a damn about that? We accepted you! You're one of us!" Ichigo shouted angrily, the Espada looking at him in surprise before shifting his gaze to Ishida. The Quincy looked surprised at finding Ulquiorra's eyes on him, but nodded his agreement with Ichigo.

"I must admit I have been a little…hasty in my judgement of you." Ishida admitted, Ulquiorra looking at him in surprise before turning his attention back to Orihime,

"It isn't just that I am Hollow and belong in Hueco Mundo…I am putting you in danger by remaining. Every Hollow that comes across us will come for me, and you'll get in the cross fire. It's already happened twice, and you've been hurt because of me three times. I don't want you to die because of my selfish desire to be close to you." He explained, Orihime's grey eyes looking up at him desperately. She couldn't bare the thought of knowing she wouldn't see him again, and if he left she knew he wouldn't be coming back.

"Please…Don't leave me…I want you to stay. I don't care if I could get hurt! I can protect myself! Just don't leave me!" She cried, surprised as she found herself crushed to Ulquiorra's chest. His arms were so gentle as he held her against his chest and stroked her hair.

"Don't say such things…You know I have no heart." He said as he pulled back and turned away, feeling Orihime fall to her knees behind him.

"Ulquiorra…Just because you don't have a heart physically it doesn't mean that you don't have one emotionally…What are your emotions telling you now?" Urahara asked, Ulquiorra's eyes widening slightly as he paused. In truth his emotions were going haywire. He wanted to go forward, but he wanted to stay. The only thing he knew above all else was that he didn't want to leave Orihime. He wanted to stay with her for the rest of his eternal life, but isn't that selfish?

"Gomen." Ulquiorra murmured as he took two steps forward and looked through the Garganta. "Sayonara." He added. Behind him Orihime kept her eyes shut tightly as tears poured down her cheeks. She heard a barely audibly zip that signalled the Garganta had closed and held her breath, he's gone…he's really gone! "Let's go home." His voice said, Orihime's eyes opening wide as she looked up at him, "Orihime." He added as he held his hand out to her.

Before he could even register her movement he found Orihime against is chest crying her eyes out, his hand still held out to where she had been kneeling on the ground. He slowly closed his arms around her and turned his face into her hair, in taking that flowery scent that he could never figure out.

"Gomenasai…I know it is selfish of me, but…I want to stay with you." He confessed as he looked down at her, Orihime standing on tiptoe to bring their mouths closer. Ulquiorra slowly leaned down, his eyes beginning to close as something passed over his vision, something small and white. Ulquiorra pulled back and looked around, "What is this?" He wondered aloud, Orihime breaking out into a bright smile,

"It's snowing Ulquiorra! It's really snowing!" She exclaimed as she pulled back with a bright laugh, the others all rushing forward to crowd them. With a cry of 'Onii-chan!' Ururu was lifting into Ulquiorra's arms as the rest of his friends crowded around him. He was clapped on the back and shoulders, hugged, kissed on the cheek and had his hair ruffled. Gomenasai Loly…I found my home…It's right here.

The End

Thank you all for sticking with this fic for so long (congrats you got through 343 pages) I hope you enjoyed it. Next up will be the Christmas Special, but please be patient because I have to write it, and after that there will be two other plot lines that I have thought up and just have to write, so again patience is appreciated. That's all from me, please feel free to leave a review on the way out ;-)