I apologize for the slow updates. REAL LIFE…

Anyways, I hope you still remember this story. This chapter is the end of this arc so, I originally planned on splitting this on two chaps but I decided otherwise, so please bear with the long chapter. And I hope you all like and realize the LESSON I want to portray on this arc. Some might find this not useful to the plot but this is actually the real plot…as I've said, every chapter that I wrote here is included in the real plot…

Everything will fall in their right places in their right time so I HOPE you still follow this humble fic of mine. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! THANK YOU SO MUCH!

MARAMING MARAMING SALAMAT PO! ^_^

This chapter is dedicated to

Tomoko Kawakami

(JP voice of Soi Fon)

(April 25, 1970 - June 9, 2011)

"What is it this time?"

"I just want to say sorry for what I said about your boyfriend the other night. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I was just so drunk that time."

"Well, it's your entire fault that I beat you up pretty badly."

"Yeah, I know. I'm not gonna charge anything against you at all. But..."

"But what?"

"Since I'm a precious and popular student in our school, they will have to investigate about this unfortunate event of mine. And no matter what your reasons are, you'll still be punished or worst expelled from your university."

"Why are you saying this to me?"

"Because I want to save you."

"..."

"That night, only me, the twins and your group witnessed what truly happened, right?"

Nod.

"Good. Remember the drunk girl who butted in the scene?"

"Yeah, I remember that feisty girl. What about her?"

"She came there to save me. But in reality, she's there to save you."

"What?"

"Her name is Kouzuki Rukia. And from now on, she will be the prime suspect for this incident. You just have to agree with me then we'll put all the blame to her... Deal?"

The pink haired girl smirked and took the extended hand in front of her. "Deal."

Full House

Chapter 25 Unmask: This is the real ME

Soundtrack: Happy by Leona Lewis

The old long bearded man groaned calmly. His eyes closed and his brows slightly creased as if mentally processing the incident and what could be the possible actions for it. "So, you're denying your friend's accusations, Miss Rukia?" the old man asked, slowly opening her eyes to look at the petite girl sitting across him on the table. After the shocking scene an hour ago, the school principal decided to dismiss the meeting and allowed Soi Fon to go home and rest. The members were also gone leaving only the petite girl to have a one on one conversation with the old school head.

"Yes, Mr. Principal. I don't remember beating anyone especially my friends."

"You didn't do it or you just didn't remember? Not doing is different from not remembering, Miss Rukia."

"Ah-I..."

The old man sighed calmly. "Bullying or causing harm to a student is a grave violation that deserves a rightful punishment. It's either you will be suspended or expelled out of college."

"But Mr. Principal, I-"

"The committee decided to give you the remaining days before finals to prove your innocence. But if you fail to do so, I'm afraid you won't be attending the next semester here in Karakura University."

Rukia's heart sunk and her expressions turned from horrified to being disappointed. She's not herself lately and her actions proved it. Now, she had to take the consequences but not without finding the truth first.

"You are dismiss," the principal said.

Rukia rose on her seat and bowed at the old man before turning at the door and left. She had to know the truth, there's so much questions running on her mind now, she had to have some answers and there's only one person who can gave her what she's looking for.
Upon exiting the building, a number of Pep squad members blocked her way and surrounded her. "Rukia Kouzuki?" a tall girl with short brown hair asked.

"Yes, what do you want from me?"

"Meet us at the squad's gym this afternoon. 4 o'clock."

"Why?" Rukia cocked her eyebrow, not intimidated by the girl's narrowed glare and by the people surrounding her.

"We just want to confirm something," the girl answered then gestured at the others. "We'll be waiting. See you later, bitch."

Rukia watched as the group walked away from her. Some members bumped and pushed her out of the way while talking trash and glaring at her. Rukia rubbed her arm as she frowned at the girl who pushed her before sighing and heading to her class. But being inside a classroom was worse. Awkward silence and dirty looks greeted her the moment she entered, making her feel very uncomfortable. She took in a deep breath before walking straight to her seat. But once she got there...

"Soi Fon acts a little bitchy but you don't have to beat her like that," one of her classmate said, standing next to her seat.

"Yeah, it's really mean of you Rukia-san," another one said.

"We thought you were nice but I guessed we were all deceived by your sweet girl facade."

Rukia looked away from them and said in a cold tone, "I didn't do anything."

"You heard her," a man said, making the students to turn at the door. "Now go back to your seat and leave her alone," he finished and so the students quickly went on their respected seat. Gin stepped inside the room and walked towards Rukia's chair. "Are you alright, Kouzuki-san?"

Surprised and confused at the man's sudden concern, Rukia nods subconciously at him.
"Good," Gin said, turning back at his students. "Class listen...Kouzuki-san is still innocent unless proven guilty with Soi Fon-san's accusation. So leave Kouzuki-san alone...or deal with me later."

The whole class went silent as their professor stare them down. Rukia on the other hand was more confused and shocked at Gin's words. She didn't know if she'll become happy that her teacher is protecting her or sad that her teacher is protecting her. She turned her head down as the feeling of weakness and helplessness started to mock her.

...o...

"What the fuck! Ichigo! Concentrate on the ball, you airhead!" Kenpachi yelled as his team's captain committed another violation.

Jogging next to the orange haired guy, Chad placed a hand on his friend's shoulder and asked, "Ichigo, is everything alright?"

"Yeah, I'm fine," Ichigo answered, glancing at Chad with a scowl on his face. Chad nodded then both men went back to their positions.

But as the game continues, Ichigo couldn't help but feel anxious and uneasy. So he asked for a time out and the referee granted his call. The players went to their respective benches and took the time to rest. And as expected, Kenpachi took that time to scold his players especially the absent minded captain. But Kenpachi's angry rant landed on deaf ears as Ichigo busied himself with typing a text message on his phone.

.o.

Rukia took out her phone from her bag and found a new message blinking on the screen.

From Ichigo:

Hi. How r u doin? Feelin' better now?

His message was supposed to make her smile and happy right now but she felt the opposite. She didn't know why, but there's an unwanted emotion building up inside her that she just can't figure out at the moment.

"So, you came after all."

Rukia snapped her gaze from her phone and turned her head at the entrance of the old gym she was in. There, at the door were the members of the Pep squad. "You told me to come here so here I am," Rukia said, looking at them with a serious face. "What do you want from me?" she asked.

Magi, the vice captain of the squad crossed her arms and returned her serious look as the other members surrounded her. "We just want straight answers about the incident, Rukia. Why did you hurt our captain?"

"I didn't hurt Soi Fon," Rukia answered boldly.

Magi walked over to her and said, "You know, Rukia. The squad is our second family. Our bonds are like sisters and brothers. We dance, cheer and fight as one. Do you understand what I'm saying?"

"I didn't hurt Soi Fon," was Rukia's cold and firm response.

"That's not what I'm asking, Rukia-"

"I didn't hurt Soi Fon. I already gave you a straight answer so I'm leaving now." Rukia prepared to walk towards the door but two male members of the squad grabbed both of her arms and hold her in place. Instantly, the guys received an icy death glare from the petite girl but they just gulped and tightened their hold on her.

"You really are something." Magi said as Rukia remained staring firmly at them. Fear cannot be seen at her face at all, even if she's surrounded by vengeful members of the Pep squad. And Magi would have appreciated her courage if she didn't happen to bully and hurt their captain.

"What are we waiting for Magi? Let's teach her a lesson not to mess with our squad ever," one girl said. The other members agreed with her quickly and they all came closer to the petite girl.

"No! We have to know the truth first. And Rukia will tell us everything." Magi said.

"But she's a liar! We don't have to listen to her lies, let's just give her what she deserved."

"Yeah!"

"Yeah, she's a bitch! A lying bitch!"

The angry squad started closing in on Rukia. A girl was able to tug on her hair, while the two males keep her in place. Rukia narrowed her eyes and prepared herself as more and more members came near her. She pulled one arm away from the guy's hold and bit on the other one. After freeing herself, she stepped back and stood on a fighting stance instinctively. A girl came charging angrily at her so she swung her bag and hit the girl's face. Another one came lunging at her but with her reflexes, she was able to dodge the girl. But they're just too many for her to handle. She felt a sharp nail raked on her right arm, leaving a long red mark on her skin. Rukia swung her bag again and her attackers backed away slightly. She then took another step back but her foot met the wall. She was cornered. The angry squad is hovering close to her. Rukia narrowed her eyes and prepared herself for the worst. If this will lead to something, she won't fall down without a fight.

"Take this, you bitch!" a girl growled, swinging at her but Rukia threw her arm in front to cover her face. She was able to reject the punch but her phone slipped from her hands. It fell and slid on the floor until it stopped in front of the brown haired girl.

Magi was a bit surprised upon seeing the worried look on Rukia's face for the first time. She looked down at the object below her then back at Rukia's worried face. "I'm assuming that this phone is a precious possession, isn't it?" Magi asked, stepping on the phone lightly. The squad stopped their attacks and turned at their vice captain.

"Take your feet off my phone," Rukia said darkly.

"I will, if you just tell us the truth." Magi uncrossed her arms and stare intently at Rukia. "You're just a freshman but you act like your some brave fearless bitch. Did you really think that you can scare us all?" Rukia remained unmoving on her spot as Magi continued. "Soi Fon told us that you're forcing them to hang out with you since you're a popularity freak. You want to be popular. You want to rule the school so much that you even flirt your way with the basketball team."

Rukia balled her fists. "I didn't do anything wrong."

"Of course that's what you'll say. You're innocent, you act innocent but Soi Fon can see through you. And because of fear that our captain will spoil your act, you beat her. And yeah, you proved yourself. You beat Soi Fon. But you should know that you messed up with the wrong person." With that, she lifted her foot up to crush the phone on the floor, but then...

"Wait!"

Everyone turned at the door and saw an auburn haired girl standing there. "Magi-san, stop this. Rukia-san never hurt our captain," Inoue said, panting lightly as she stared pleadingly at her vice captain. When she heard that Magi and her team were with Rukia, she hurriedly ran there for her friend's aid.

"Inoue, what are you saying? Are you taking this girl's side?" one girl asked.

Inoue walked towards Rukia and blocked her from her co-cheerleaders. "Rukia-san didn't hurt Soi Fon-san or the twins."

"How did you know? Are you there when it happened?"

"I..." Inoue bit her lips and shook her head sadly. "No, I wasn't there."

"So how can you say that she didn't do it?"

"Because I know Rukia-san, she won't hurt anyone."

"So are you saying that Soi Fon is lying and just making up all this stories?" another girl asked and the others agrees and stared at Inoue.

"No, I-" The auburn haired girl tried to reason out but they won't listen to her. Everyone was glaring and mocking Inoue at the same time, confusing and humiliating the said girl causing her to stutter. Rukia balled her fists tighter as the squad kept mocking and throwing insults at her friend. But before she could scream her anger out, Magi silenced her team.

"Enough!" she exclaimed and silence followed instantly. Rukia and Inoue looked up at the said girl. Magi had the same graceful aura as Soi Fon, but Rukia can tell that Magi's character is far different from her captain. She can see that Magi had that fair and just authoritativeness around her. It's just sad to know that this kind of girl had a bad impression of her. "We won't solve anything if you keep talking at the same time," Magi scolded her team then turned at the auburn haired girl standing in front of Rukia. "Tell me, Inoue... Why did you say that Rukia isn't responsible for our captain's injury?"

Inoue gulped her fears away and strengthened up before looking directly at Magi. "Because Rukia-san is my friend, I know that she will not do anything to hurt other people."

"And you believe in her more than our captain?"

"Yes," was Inoue's quick and firm answer. Rukia tilted her head down and hid her eyes in the shadows of her hair. Magi stared at Inoue and the auburn haired girl held her head high and stared back at her vice captain.

After a long moment of silence, Magi finally spoke. "I hope you're sure of your decisions, Inoue." She glanced down and gently kicked the phone towards Rukia's direction. "We'll see who's really telling the truth. But if Rukia did hurt Soi Fon then we'll have to come back at her. Let's go team!" she finished and turned towards the door. Her squad followed her but not without glaring at the two girls.

"This isn't over, bitch." one girl said over at Rukia.

"Yeah, shame on you Inoue. Shame on both of you." another one spat, holding up a finger at them.

Once the squad was out, Inoue lets out a heavy sigh before turning at her friend. "Are you alright, Rukia-san?"

Rukia nodded, hands holding onto the red scratch on her arm as her face still hidden in the shadows. Inoue eyed her worriedly and tried to reach up for her friend but her hand paused halfway.

Awkwardness, shame and a little jealousy stirred up inside her. Jealousy, for the wounds on her broken heart was still fresh. Shame, for the fact that she lied and almost betrayed Rukia behind her back. And awkwardness, for she's not sure how to face her right now.

"I-I'm sorry...Rukia-san," she finally said after a moment.

Rukia shook her head and said softly, "No, It's my entire fault; you don't have to say sorry at all."

"But I-"

Rukia looked up at her friend, forcing a small reassuring smile on her lips. "I'm fine now, Orihime. Thanks..." her smile fades a bit as she said, "...for saving me." And before Inoue could say anything, Rukia quickly picked up her phone and excused herself. "Thanks again, Orihime. But I need to go, bye."

With that, Rukia headed for the door and left the gym, leaving a worried and sad Inoue alone. Once outside, Rukia ran away from the gym. She ran passed the school buildings, passed the student's study hall and passed everyone who's giving her weird and mocking stares.

'Why am I feeling like this? What is this...this stupid feeling? I hate it... I hate it... I hate it...' she kept saying those words through her head as she continued on running, not sure where she's heading to.

...o...

"Ouch! Could you be more gentle, you idiot!" Soi Fon growled, pushing Macy away from her harshly.

Macy fought the urge to grimace at her captain and pouted instead before scooting back near the girl. She and her twin sister were absent for school today because their badly beaten captain won't let them leave her. And so now, they acted as Soi Fon's personal nurse...and maid.

"Macy, are you listening to me?"

"Huh?"

Soi Fon rolled her eyes, "I said get me a beer on the fridge, you bird brain!"

Macy cringed as the bossy girl growled exasperated. She got off the bed hurriedly and walked towards the small fridge standing on the corner of Soi Fon's bedroom.

Stacey looked at her twin then glanced at the battered girl sitting on the bed. "Now I know why your maids resigned easily," she said but Soi Fon didn't mind her comment. She just grabbed the can from Macy's outstretched hand and continued to stare at her TV screen. She is obviously pissed at the moment because of the decision of the Discipline committee earlier. She wanted to get rid of Rukia as soon as possible but the stupid committee gave the girl a chance to prove her innocence. Though she's quite confident that she'll won over the petite girl, she's still pissed about it.

"Fuck that committee!" she said after chunking down the remaining beer and throwing the can carelessly on the floor.

Stacey and Macy shared glances then turned at their obviously pissed captain. Stacey sat down on the bed and asked, "Ah Soi Fon, do your parents know about this already?"

"No," Soi Fon answered, not removing her gaze from her screen.

"So why don't you tell them? They might help you talk with the school officials and-"

"Are you kidding me? Those people rather heard the news about that fucking stock exchange. They won't give a shit about me."

The twins were taken aback at what their captain said. They knew that Soi Fon's in bad terms with her parents.

It started when she was 4 years old when an accident killed her older sister. They said that her older sister died saving Soi Fon from being hit by a car. Her parents were furious and ecstatic about the death of their favorite daughter. Yes, Soi Fon was nothing compared to her older sister. She's perfect, beautiful, smart and talented. She's everything that her parents wanted and Soi Fon felt like an excess baggage, making her feel jealous of the older girl. She hated her. She felt unloved, disliked and alone because of her and her older sister aware of her hatred. But despite of Soi Fon's obvious jealousy and meanness, her sister still treated her nicely...and that pissed her more.

But after the accident, Soi Fon felt more alone than ever. Her parents had sworn her, blaming her for what happened. That fueled her anger for her dead sister. She took everything away from her. She took her parent's love and concern and more. And because of her death, there's nothing left for her.

Soi Fon was alone. Not even once, she felt love and cared for from other people. But she won't let them pity her. She won't let other people looked down upon her, like that time her sister died. She swore to never feel alone anymore.

That's why she'll do everything to stay on the throne. She didn't care what or how it would cost her...because she believed that popularity is her friend.

The only friend that will never let her alone.

Tu-tut! Tu-tut!

The ringing of Stacey's phone snapped her back from her thoughts. The girl picked up her phone and read her message. "It's from Saija," Stacey announced before reading the text message allowed. "We almost got Rukia but Inoue butted in and shits everything up, so Magi dismissed the squad."

Soi Fon groaned angrily and threw the beer can away harshly. It crushed with her TV screen before landing on the floor, spilling the remaining beer on the floor. Macy puffs out a loud sigh...she will clean it later, that's for sure.

"That pathetic pumpkin head! I'm going to rip her hair off tomorrow!" Soi Fon growled.

Stacey frowned. "Relax, Soi Fon. If you do that, our plans will be spoiled."

"I don't care! I'm gonna teach that bitch a lesson. She'll just wait 'til I get back to school."

Stacey turned at Macy but the said girl just shrugged and went out of the room.

...o...

That night at Ichigo's house…

"Is everything alright?" Ichigo asked softly, glancing at his girlfriend as he noticed her silent behavior. She hadn't spoken a word since they started their dinner and it was kind of uncomfortable and creeping him out.

Rukia glanced at him and nodded slightly, "Yeah, everything's fine."

Ichigo nodded then went back on his food before asking, "Are you feeling cold?"

"A little." was Rukia's soft response, looking down at the Chappy themed sweater that she's wearing to hide the scratch on her arm. She didn't want Ichigo to see it; or rather he didn't have to see it.

Ichigo sighed inwardly and the two resumed with their meal unusually silent. Both of them are too stubborn to talk about what's eating up inside them. Rukia glanced up a bit at her boyfriend but chose not to tell anything about the incident earlier for she believed that she can deal with it by herself. No need to bother anyone anymore...especially Ichigo.

...o...

But the next day became worse for Rukia because Soi Fon had brought Riruka to the Discipline Office as her star witness. The pink haired girl strengthened Soi Fon's accusations against her. The news quickly spread around the school and finally reached the basketball team through Keigo. The team was shocked and Ichigo was furious. He felt ecstatic. His fist curled into a tight ball and was itching to punch someone.

"That's fucking bullshit!" Ichigo growled, punching the locker next to him. He tossed his bag aside and dashed at the door.

"Hey captain, where are you going?" Keigo called out but Ichigo was already out. Chad, Uryuu and Ikakku followed him quickly.

Yumichika turned at Keigo and said, "C'mon! They're going to find Rukia-san." Keigo nodded then followed the others, bumping on his coach at the doorway.

"What's happenin' here? Where are those bastards goin'?" Kenpachi asked, looking at his team's retreating form.

With a troubled look on his face, Keigo gulped and said, "Coach, we have a problem."

.o.

Sitting on the farthest corner in the cafeteria, Rukia kept staring at her sandwich for a moment now. Buzzes and murmurs surrounded her as the students talked tirelessly about the hottest issue on school today.

Rukia clutched the juice box on her hand. She had to do something. She tried remembering what happened that night but all she can come up with were blurred and confusing images. She shook her head fiercely until she felt dizzy; she stopped and clutched her aching head.

"Rukia-san?"

A mild voice called her attention. She slowly looked up and saw her dark haired friend. "Hanatarou..."

The guy smiled sheepishly at her. "Are you having a headache? Here, I've got some medicine with me," he said, picking out a capsule from his nursing kit bag and handing it to the petite girl.

Rukia sighed heavily and accepted it, "Thanks Hanatarou, you're so kind." she said, smiling sadly. She knew that Hanatarou already knew her problem but the said guy was still nice to her.

"It's fine, Rukia-san. Don't mention it," Hanatarou said, smiling sheepishly and scratching the back of his head. He was about to say something but a tall frame shadowed him from behind.

"Move out of the way, pipsqueak." a guy said, pushing Hanatarou away. The poor guy stumbled on the chairs clumsily, earning a loud laughter around the cafeteria.

"Hanatarou!" Rukia stood abruptly from her seat to help her friend but the tall guys blocked her way.

"I'm alright, Rukia-san. I'm alright." Hanatarou assured but that didn't stop Rukia from glaring at the mean guys.

"Why'd you do that?" she asked haughtily.

One guy looked down at her and smirked, "So, this is the girl who bullied the Pep Squad captain. I can't believe she's just a tiny little squirt." the guy said in a funny cooing tone and facial expression, leaning closer to her face. Laughter erupted again as the students watched them like a live action show. Rukia didn't say anything and kept her narrowed gaze. "Isn't it cute? A miniature like her can kick some fucking ass! I didn't think she was so mean."

"Yeah, I'm mean" Rukia said lowly. "But you're an ugly ape. Apologize to my friend or I'll show you how mean I am."

The crowd 'Woah-ed' and some laughed. The guy felt humiliated and flashed her an angry glare to hide his embarrassment. "What did you say? Do you know who you're talking to, huh?" The guy asked then stabbed a finger at his chest. "I'm Kudo, the vice captain of the rugby team!"

"I don't care who you are. Apologize to my friend now."

Hanatarou stood nervously next to the petite girl and said, "R-Rukia-san, it's alright. I'm-"

"No. They have to apologize."

The guy laughed at her then grabbed a glass of water from the table next to him. "Alright, I'll apologize to your friend…" he said then poured water down Hanatarou's head. Rukia's eyes widened, Hanatarou was shocked while the guy dawned the last drop on his head, laughing. "There! Now..." the guy bowed and playfully said, "I'm sorry, your highness. I didn't mean to-"

Splash!

Ichigo and his teammates came at the cafeteria. And they all stopped on their trances as the first thing they witnessed was Rukia splashing water on a guy's face. A collective gasps were heard and all eyes widened in shock. The guy was obviously shock too as he gaped at Rukia's fearless expression.

"You bitch!" the guy growled, grabbing Rukia's arm and twisting it on her back making her yelp in pain.

Fire of anger enveloped Ichigo and in a flash he was charging towards the guy, fist aimed to crush the guys face. "YOU BASTARD..!"

The guy was horrified as he saw the raging and very furious orange haired captain lunging at him then...

"..!"

The rugby guy was frozen on his spot and only managed to take a step back out of fearful instinct, a bead of cold sweat rolled down the side of his face. He gulped as he looked at the large and tight fist shaking an inch away from his nose.

"UURGH...LET ME GO! I'LL KILL THIS FUCKING BASTARD!" Ichigo growled hysterically.

Everyone was shocked and frozen at the scene before them. The strong punch didn't land on the guy's face because Kenpachi came on time to grab Ichigo's arm. Chad and Ikakku were also on time to stop their captain and hold him in place. Rukia was shocked and horrified, seeing the killing intent on Ichigo's eyes.

"Bring him out!" Kenpachi said. Struggling, Ikakku and Chad pulled their raging captain away while Uryuu rushed at Rukia's side. Yumichika, Keigo and some discipline officers came rushing at the scene too.

"Everyone out now! C'mon, move it! Go! Go! Go!" one instructed and the students scampered panicky out of the chaotic cafeteria. The rugby guy collected himself and acted brave again to regain his pride, thinking that he's safe now because the discipline officers are there.

"C'me here! Kurosaki, want a piece of me, huh?" he boasted once Ichigo was a good distance away from him. "C'me on! Avenge your bitchy girlfriend!" he said then laughed, making Ichigo angrier. But he choked on his laugh when a very tall figure blocked his view.

"Are you from the rugby club?" Kenpachi asked calmly, towering the guy.

"Y-Yes. I am the vice captain."

"So you're very talented. But..." Kenpachi smirked and raised his large fist. "FUCK YOU!"

A loud thud was heard as the guy fell down on the floor...cold and unconscious.

Kenpachi turned at a gaping officer and smirked before calling himself a "Foul!" then laughed maniacally.

...o...

"G-Gomenasaiii, Rukia-saan…~"

"It's alright Hanatarou. It's not your fault," Rukia said, stopping the raven haired guy from crying.

"B-B-But I-"

"Rukia!" Ichigo came barging in from the clinic's door. Rukia and Hanatarou turned at him. He was panting and obviously worried, just like how Inoue came saving her yesterday. That made Rukia to turn away and look down her lap. After the rampage at the cafeteria, his and the rugby team were all brought in the Discipline office.

The rugby team's coach and team captain were also summoned. Of course, Zaraki Kenpachi was also present but he will be handled by another committee. Another case of misconduct was filed for the school's administration to work on. Punishment awaits them but Ichigo could care less about that for he's more worried about his girlfriend right now.

"Rukia, how are you?" Ichigo asked, stepping towards the clinic bed where Rukia sat. He didn't even notice the guy weeping next to her.

"Don't worry; Miss Rukia didn't break her wrist. It's fine, no harm done." the school nurse said, smiling up at the orange haired student. She stopped rubbing Rukia's wrist then placed an icebag on top of it. "There, can you hold the ice bag for a while, Miss Rukia?" The girl nodded.

"Rukia-"

"I'm fine Ichigo, you're too exaggerated." Rukia said in a low irritated tone and Ichigo was taken aback.

Noticing the need to give the two sometime alone, the nurse stood from the bed and turned at the other guy in the room. "Hanatarou, can you help me up with the other patient please?"

The nursing student sniffled and nodded shyly. "G-Gomenasai, Kurosaki s-sempai. Gomenasai." he said, bowing at the orange haired guy. But Ichigo didn't mind him as he kept staring down at his girlfriend, still processing her last comment. Once they were left alone, Ichigo stepped in front of Rukia. He knelt down on one knee and placed both hands in either side of her. He scowled and stared up at his girlfriend. Rukia had her face turned on the side but Ichigo could see the stubborn scowl on her face.

"Rukia, why didn't you tell me about it?" he asked, annoyance and hurt were on his tone. "You should've told me about it last night. Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because you don't have anything to do with it," she answered in a sarcastic and irritated tone.

"I'm your boyfriend, dammit! Of course it has everything to do with me!" he exclaimed, letting out an exasperated scoff. "What, you think you can handle this on your own?"

"Yes."

"How are you going to do that, huh?"

Rukia glared back at him, "I don't know...I'll figure it out. So you don't have butt in anymore," she said stubbornly then looked away from him again.

Ichigo's scowl deepened, "You're so stubborn."

"Oh yeah? I'm strong too..." she looked back at him. Her eyes held stubbornness as she stared directly into his amber ones. "You don't have to save me all the time, Ichigo. You don't have to protect me."

"And what? You think I'll just watch them hurt you-"

"I don't need you to take care of me!" she said almost yelling down at him. "I take care of myself. That's what I do and that's what I'm supposed to do. So just leave me alone, will you?" she finished, her face burning in anger as she breathed shaking.

Silence filled the small room as the couple stared at each other. Anger, hurt and frustration were mirrored on their eyes. Ichigo was clutching the sheets of the bed as he kept his gaze at her. He was looking intensely at her eyes, searching for something he's not sure of. But all he could see is Rukia's stubbornness. She said it again...the leave me alone thing that's been driving him mad as fuck.

"So you want me to leave you alone?" he asked coldly and firmly, eyes fixed at her stubborn ones.

"Yes."

"On your own, that's what you want."

"Yes! I'll deal with this..." she turned her head away again. "Alone."

Ichigo stared at her for a moment then shook his head and let out a low chuckle. "Alright..." He stood up on his feet. His fists still balled on his side and his jaw was set tight. "That's fine...Goodluck then, Kouzuki."

"Thank you, Kurosaki," she answered as casual and sarcastic as he was.

"Hope you kick their asses."

"I will."

Ichigo's jaw was clenched as he opened the sliding door harshly before stepping out and slamming it close. "Fuck this!" he hissed, punching the wall angrily. Rukia heard him but she remained unmoving on her seat until she finally heard him walked away and left. And that's when she finally let out a heavy and defeated sigh.

She was so messed up. She pushed away the only person that she needed at this moment. She pushed him away because she's afraid. Yes, she's afraid and she hates herself for being weak. She thought she could do everything. She thought she could handle any trouble, survived any problem, and she thought she's strong enough to protect the ones dear to her. But it turned out to be different from what she had thought.

She couldn't do a thing without a help from others. She was always saved by the troubles she herself made. And she's too weak that her friends always need to go save and protect her.

She becomes weak...and she hates it!

Rukia stared down at her lap. Her lips were shaking as tears threatened to fall down from her eyes. But she held it back; she balled her fists tightly and fought the shaking of her body.

She will not cry...no matter what.

Inoue heard about the incident so she quickly went at the clinic to check up on her friend. But when she was a few meters away from the clinic, she saw Ichigo stepping outside. Thoughts of her confession flashed through her mind making her paused abruptly on her tracks. And as she saw him punched the wall angrily, Inoue couldn't do anything but to step back and hide on the wall. She felt guilty, sad, embarrassed and pathetic. Tears rolled down her face as she blamed herself for what was happening. It's her fault. If she didn't lie to her friend and if she didn't summon to Soi Fon's plan, then these wouldn't be happening. But crying wouldn't do any good. She had to do something.

Inoue wiped her tears away and strengthened. She has to help Rukia-san not only because she has to pay for what she had done wrong, but because...

Rukia-san is her friend.

...o...

The next day, Friday…

Rukia was sitting on a high stool in front of the cafe counter. Her face was blank as she stared at her cell phone; was obviously lost in deep thoughts. Today is like judgment day for her and she's lost. She didn't know what to do until now, and she was too stubborn to admit it. And it didn't help the fact that people are getting in trouble because of her. Coach Kenpachi was suspended for two months next semester for punching a student yesterday. The guy from the rugby club was only suspended. Ichigo was warned and received a restraining order from the rugby club.

She sighed.

She's a troublemaker. Trouble was always on her tail. And what made it worse was the fact that her friends were always dragged into it specially, Ichigo.

Rukia frowned sadly as she remembered what the orange haired guy said.

'Everyone can be your friend, Rukia. But not all of them will remain as true friend.'

He's right once again and it hurts. It hurts to know that she was deceived and that she was being played with. But what's worse was the fact that she hurt the person who truly cares for her because she was protecting the wrong persons.

Rukia groaned and buried her face on her crossed arms lying on top of the counter. Across her on the dining area, Momo, Urahara and Yuroichi were watching her silently. Momo were very worried as she looked up at her bosses, silently asking for help. Yuroichi nudged her husband's side and murmured, "Go and help her."

Urahara turned at his wife with his usual nonchalant face and asked, "What do you mean?"

Yuroichi grimaced, "You know what I mean. Talk to her, offer assistance. Tell her that you will help investigate the incident."

"Will I? Ow!" he asked then grunted as an elbow connected on his side.

"Just talk to her, okay?" Yuroichi said between gritted teeth, careful not to yell at her easy going husband.

"Please, Urahara-san. Talk to her," Momo whispered pleadingly.

"But what will I say to her?"

"Just-" Yuroichi paused as they heard Rukia pushing her chair and standing up.

"I'll be going to school now, Urahasa-san, Yuroichi-san, Momo," she said bowing at her bosses before grabbing her bag.

"A-Ah, wait Rukia-san." Yuroichi said. "We heard about your problem."

Rukia looked down, "It's alright. It's my entire fault anyway, so I accept my punishment."

"But do you want us to help you?"

Not wanting to cause more trouble, Rukia tilted her head down and just shook her head.
She kept staring down on the floor as she stepped towards the door of the Shoten Cafe. But before she could open the door, a pair of wooden sandals appeared in front of her. Looking up slowly, Rukia saw the messy haired man blocking the door. Urahara looked directly into her eyes...and smiled. "Silence means yes, ne Rukia-san?"

.

.o.

"Oh hi Soi Fon! How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine now. Thanks for your concern."

"Hey Soi Fon-san! Nice to see you again! I'm glad you recover fast!"

"Yeah. My body still hurts but I can handle it now. Thanks."

A pile of students approaches and circled the cheerleading captain...extending their sympathies, asking about her conditions etc. And it was what the cheerleader expected.

Attention, sympathy and popularity.

She won her throne back. She's back and it just proved that she will always be the queen. The decision of the discipline will be announce later and she's pretty confident about it.

Maintaining that sweet smile on her lips, Soi Fon kept answering and accommodating the crowd around her. But suddenly...

"Soi Fon-san."

Everyone turned around and saw the auburn haired girl. Her eyes slightly narrowed at the cheerleading captain as she stood up proudly, hiding any evidence of her nervousness. She will not be afraid of her captain, she will fight for Rukia-san and she will fight for her dignity.

Soi Fon's smile almost faltered upon seeing her auburn haired teammate but she controlled herself and widened her smile. "Oh Inoue! Nice to see you again."

Inoue ignored her compliment, knowing that it's fake. "I want to talk to you," she said, gulping unnoticeably before adding, "In private."

The girls shared glances before Soi Fon shrugged and said, "Sure." Her smile turned into a meaningful smirk as she stared at Inoue. "Actually, I was planning to talk to you too." Soi Fon glanced at the twins and the two quickly understood. "So, let's go now... Inoue."

.

.o.

Rukia's eyes widened for a second then returned to normal as Urahara stepped towards her. He placed a hand on her shoulder and said, "I know it, Rukia-san... You're not used to this kind of situations. It's tough isn't it?"

Rukia stared up at him with a confused face.

Urahara brought his hand back at his side and sighed softly. "But I know that you can survive 'cause you're a tough girl."

Rukia stared up at him for awhile then looked down and shook her head. "I'm weak. I let my friends save me every time. I always cause them trouble 'cause I'm weak and selfish. I always failed everyone. I'm not as tough as you think I am."

Urahara tilted his head on the side, "Then that's what makes you normal for a change."

"Huh?" Rukia looked back at him with a sad yet puzzled look.

"Strength is not measured by how perfect you are. Look at this Rukia-san, when we asked to become stronger, strength is not given to us. Instead, we are put in situations that will make us stronger. We have to be weak for us to get stronger."

Rukia remained on her spot as Urahara's words started sinking inside of her. It was surging and making its way to her heart and giving it a jolting beat. Her eyes then widened slowly as realization hit her. "I'm..."

Urahara smiled, "Yes, Rukia-san. This is your chance. Show them how strong you really are. You didn't come here to lose, right?"

Rukia clenched her fists tightly as she felt a large part of herself coming back. Determination was burning in her eyes as she tilted her head high and lets out a deep breath. She looked at the messy haired man in front of her and nodded before stepping out of the door and started running. Momo cheered after her. Yuroichi smirked and stepped beside her husband and snaked her arms around his waist as she said, "Nice job, my sexy wise man."

...o...

Sitting on the study hall with his teammates, Ichigo was getting more anxious by the minute. Rukia was about to be expelled in school but he can't do anything about it. His hands were shaking as he clutched a page of his book. His teammates however were looking sympathetic at him but like their captain, they can't do anything but wait for the decision. Deciding to call Kukakku and asked for her help, Ichigo suddenly stood up from his seat, catching the attention of his teammates. Chad was about to stand up too but Ichigo stopped him. "I'm just going to the CR," he said, before walking away from the group. He knew that his teammates were worried that he will do something reckless again so they sticked to him. Even if they didn't say so, they are worried about Rukia too. Scowling deeply as he browsed his contacts, Ichigo stomped his way towards a building. But as he rounded a corner, he stopped abruptly on his tracks.

Scowl softening and mouth gaping slightly, Ichigo stared at the figure standing a few meters away from him. "R-Rukia..."

Panting, Rukia stared back at him and their eyes met. Her heart skipped a beat as she saw the concern and tenderness on those soft amber eyes of him. She closed her eyes briefly then opened them to look up at him again. But this time, a small and determined smile was on her lips. Ichigo's eyes widened a bit then it quickly went back to normal as he got her message.

Trust me.

The smile and the glint of determination in her eyes tell it all. He let out a soft sigh and looked her in the eyes before he smiled back and nodded. And that's all that she needed before she nodded back and continued running away.

She run passed the corridor, passed the hallway, passed several buildings, and passed every students glaring and staring at her. She kept running until finally, she's standing in front of the Pep squad gym. She took in a deep breath before breathing out and started stepping inside.

.

.o.

"Magi!"

The Pep squad vice captain turned at her teammate, "What is it? Why are you such in a hurry?"

"Inoue! I saw Inoue and captain Soi Fon going to the gym. And it looks like Inoue is planning something bad."

"What?"

"C'mon Magi! Let's help captain!"

"Yeah Magi, let's go!"

The leader looked at her teammates thoughtfully before nodding and saying, "Alright, let's go."

.

.o.

"Guys! Guys!" Keigo came rushing towards his teammates table with a very worried look. "Guys, we have to move!"

"What is it, Keigo? What's wrong?"

"Kou... Kouzuki-san went to the Pep squad gym. Soi Fon and Inoue-san are there too. And-and I saw the whole squad going in there too."

"What?" Ikaku blurted. "C'mon, we have to go there!"

"Where are you going?" Rangiku came from nowhere and asked. Yumichika explained for her and she quickly panicked. "Oh my! We need to go there. They might hurt her."

"C'mon let's go!" Ikakku called and the team prepared to run to the gym but their orange haired captain stepped in front of them. "Ichigo, we have to save Rukia!"

"Yeah, captain. Kouzuki-san is in danger so we have to-"

"Wait here," Ichigo said calmly earning a surprised 'WHAT?" from his teammates.

"What are you talking about? Why are you so calm? Don't tell me you're giving up on her already?"

"Ichigo-kun, we have to save Kouzuki-san!"

"Kurosaki..."

"Captain..."

"Ichigo..."

The orange haired guy scratched the back of his neck and shook his head, "Don't worry. Rukia can handle it..." he said before turning his back at his teammates to hide his blush before saying, "After all... She is my girlfriend."
.

.

.

"HUWWWAAATT?"

.

.

.o.

Stepping inside the gym, Rukia was shocked to see Inoue being slapped by Soi Fon. "Orihime!" she yelled, running towards her friend's side. Soi Fon and the twin released Inoue and moved away a bit. Rukia knelt down beside her friend to check up on her.

Inoue was a bit surprised to see her there but she tried to smile and said, "I'm fine Rukia-san. It's alright."

Rukia scowled and lets out a controlled breath before standing up and confronting the three girls watching them. "Why did you do this to Orihime?" she asked in a low and cold tone.

"Heh! So you two are still friends after all," Soi Fon said, crossing her arms in front. "I believe you're supposed to say sorry first, Rukia."

Rukia didn't respond and just kept staring at the cheerleader. Soi Fon smirked and stepped closer to her. "What? Don't tell me you still haven't figured it out?" The twins laughed at that.

Rukia narrowed her eyes, "That night... Tell me what really happened that night?"

Soi Fon raised an eyebrow then she started laughing. Outside the small gym's backdoor, Magi and the rest of the cheerleaders finally arrived. But before anyone could barge in, Magi stopped her teammates and gestured for them to keep quiet. The team gave her a questioning look but nevertheless did as what their vice captain said.

After almost a minute, Soi Fon's laughing fit slowly died down, but a wide grin remained on her face. "I'm sorry, but that was just...it's so funny! You mean, you still haven't figured it out? God, I never thought you're that slow." The three girls laughed again.

"It's not me, was it?" Rukia asked making to stop with their laughing.

"You beat me senseless that night, Rukia. You're such a monster bitch back that night?"

"Then tell me why I did that to you."

"Because you're jealous of me," was Soi Fon's quick answer. Her face suddenly became serious and fire was on her eyes in an instant that the twins were surprised at her sudden mood change.

Rukia's eyes narrowed, "You're lying," she said earning a surprise look by the three girls. "Now I know the truth. Now I am sure that I never done anything to hurt you that night."

"What do you mean? You're the one who won't stop slapping our captain," Macy defended.

"No, I never hurt Soi Fon. Because I am not jealous of her... It's the other way around."

The twins went wide eyed while Soi Fon started to shake in anger. "Fine!" she said. "I admit it! You didn't hurt me, it was Riruka."

"Soi Fon, don't-"

"It's alright, Stacey. Even if I tell her the truth, the committee won't believe her." Soi Fon smirked. "It's true. I've planned all of this but I wasn't alone. Inoue worked with me."
Fear was seen on Inoue's face as Soi Fon started stating everything about the plan. Rukia was also a bit surprised upon hearing it. "Inoue asked for my help to take Kurosaki-kun away from you. We helped her to be alone with Ichigo that night, but sadly Ichigo dumped that pathetic pumpkin head." She shrugged. "Well, I already knew that that's what'll happen. Seriously, without her boobs, Inoue is nothing."

Inoue tilted her head down, hiding her teary eyes under the shadows of her bangs, while Rukia kept staring coldly at the cheerleading captain.

"And you guess right. It wasn't you; it was Riruka from Hano University..."

As Soi Fon continues, random images and noises from that night came flashing through Rukia's head. She remembered a pink haired girl, she remembered Macy and Stacey calling her name, she remembered being kicked then there came Ichigo's voice, her riding on a car then the next images were in a blur.

"Do you remember it now, Rukia?" Soi Fon asked smugly, crossing her arms again. "Everything that happened was planned out. It was just an act, a show. And you are the lousy star." Rukia looked down, eyes hidden in the shadows while Soi Fon slowly stepped towards her. "This is what you want, right? Actually, I believe you should thank me...cause I gave you what you want." She stopped right in front of Rukia. "You're the most popular girl in school now. You got everyone's attention; everyone's talking about you... Rukia the bully. Isn't it amazing?" she laughed and the twins laughed with her.

"Pathetic."

The laughter suddenly stopped and Soi Fon quickly glared at the petite girl in front of her. "What did you say?" Soi Fon asked.

Rukia looked up at her and said, "If you hate me then tell it to my face. If you want to get rid of me then fight me with your own hands and don't ever use my friends...cause you're not worthy of their help."

The sound of a strong bitch slap echoed inside the small gym, shocking the other persons who saw and heard it. Inoue's eyes were wide as concern plastered on her face. But as much as she wanted to stand beside Rukia, her feet seemed to get stuck on her place. She can't move and she was speechless. Even the twins were frozen on their spot too, gaping in shock by their captain's action.

Shaking in anger, Soi Fon glared angrily at the petite girl. The burning red mark on Rukia's cheek was staring right at her as if shouting her victory. She did it...she had finally gave Rukia what she wanted to give her the time she stole her possessions.

Popularity, attention, care and sympathy.

It's for her and only her. She worked hard for it and she will never let anyone stole it away from her. She'll fight for it and make sure that at the end of the day, she'll win.

"Take that, you bitch!" Soi Fon spat. "You should know by now that you can't beat me. I'm Soi Fon and this school is my territory."

"So..." Slowly turning her head back, Rukia asked "Are you happy now?" The cold and firm tone of her voice was boring deeply on Soi Fon. "Does that make you hate yourself less?" Rukia continued, taking a step forward making Soi Fon to take a step back unconsciously. "Does that satisfy you? Is it worth it? Tell me Soi Fon..." she paused then looked her directly with that deep and steel cold glare of her. "Are you really happy with what you have done to us?"

Soi Fon groaned angrily, "Shut up, you slutty bitch! You don't know who I am! You don't know how it feels to be hated..!"

"Soi Fon..." the twins tried to calm her down but their captain was very angry now.

"My family casted me out and left me alone so I've worked hard to get attention from everyone but you just have to take it away from me!" Soi Fon was now shaking in anger as she pointed a finger at Rukia. "You're just like her! You're like my sister and I hate you! I fucking HATE YOU!"

"You can hate me all you want but that won't solve a thing," Rukia calmly said. "I know how you feel, Soi Fon."

"LIAR! You will never understand all of my sufferings and-"

"I'm an orphan!" Rukia interjected, nearly yelling but calm still. She was told not to tell anyone even a tiny piece of fact about her true identity. But Rukia chose to defy another rule. Everyone who heard it were shock, even Soi Fon was caught off guard at the petite girl's sudden revelation. Letting out a slow and deep breath, Rukia continued. "I never got the chance to see my parents. I was abandoned until someone adopted me...but it just makes me feel more abandoned. And the death of someone dear to me made me lonelier. I felt so alone and left out..." she closed her eyes as her body started shaking. Tears threaten to fall from her eyes but she holds it back. Sighing softly, she looked up at Soi Fon and said, "But that didn't stop me from becoming happy."

.

"We are the same Soi Fon. We are lonely and blinded by our desires. We became so blinded that we both end up hurting the people around us. But you know what's the difference between us?"

.

"I have my true friends behind me to pull me back... And that makes me happy."

Inoue felt warmth enveloped her at what Rukia said. Ever since she met Rukia-san, she envied the girl. She thought that Rukia-san was so lucky to have everything that she wanted but now... She realized that if there's someone who's lucky here...it was her. Because aside from Tatsuki-chan, she was blessed with another wonderful friend and that is...

"Rukia-san..."

Macy and Stacey felt ashamed of themselves as Rukia's word hit them. They couldn't even call themselves as Soi Fon's friend because all they do is push her...push her to hate other people. Thus, they all ended up becoming the worst of all people in the campus.

"Soi Fon..." Stacey called lowly, placing a hand on her captain's shoulder. Said girl turned at the two and saw them shaking their heads as if telling her that it's over. But instead of surrendering, Soi Fon pushed their hands off her then glared angrily back at Rukia.

"I don't give a shit about what you said... I STILL HATE YOU..!" she growled and raised her hands to give Rukia another bitch slap but...

"I deserved the first hit..." Rukia said, holding up Soi Fon's wrist and grabbing on it tightly. Her head held up with pride and confidence as her deep purple orbs stared at Soi Fon with pure conviction. "But there will never be a second one." she finished and shoved the cheerleader off her. Soi Fon fell down hard on her butt. Raging with anger, she pushed herself up and tried to lung at her again, but a tug on her arm stopped her.

"It's over, Soi Fon. You lose." Magi said, earning a very shocked face from her captain. The whole cheerleading team was now inside the gym. All had sad and regretful faces as they looked at their captain.

"What are you doing? Let me go! That girl is a bitch! She's a liar! She beat me up, remember?"

"Rukia-chan is innocent, Soi Fon,"

Everyone turned at the front door and saw Rangiku-sensei together with the whole basketball team.

"I-Ichigo..." Rukia mumbled, surprised visible on her face.

With a scowl and a serious look on his face, Ichigo caught her gaze. Chad, Uryuu, Ikakku, Yumichika, Keigo and Mizuiro were also there with serious yet calm looks on their faces.

"We heard everything. It was you...you and those twins are guilty for everything." Rangiku finished, holding up her phone while playing the recorded voice of Soi Fon. The cheerleader was about to still fight, but her teammates held onto her. "Bring her to the Discipline Office, immediately." Rangiku ordered and so the cheerleaders escorted their still raging captain out. And before they walked past Ichigo, Soi Fon stopped and glared up at him. But the orange haired guy didn't even pay her a glance as he kept staring ahead with a proud look on his face. Feeling herself close to tears, Soi Fon looked away before finally letting her teammates to walk her out of the gym.

Magi then approached Rukia and bowed slightly, "I'm sorry for what happened, Rukia. The whole team asked for your forgiveness about what we did to you. We're very sorry."

Rukia understood them but she suddenly can't find her voice. Her body is still shaking and her lungs started constricting. She blew out a shaky breath and just nodded. Magi turned at Inoue and bowed at her too before deciding to exit the gym and followed her teammates.
Staring at where Magi had left, Rukia jerked when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

"Rukia..."

The stirring inside her grew stronger upon hearing that familiar voice. And as she slowly craned her neck around, she found that amber eyes gazing down at her. "You did it," Ichigo said, brushing his thumb against the red mark on her cheeks. 'And I'm so proud you.' he wanted to add but his gaze was enough to tell her how proud he is of her.

And as Rukia stared up at that soft and tender gaze, she's starting to lose control of her emotions. She remembered their fight, the slap and everything she had said, did and caused to him and to everyone. Her heart was swelling, her lips started to tremble and she couldn't hold it back any longer. She gripped a fistful of his shirt and buried her face on his chest before she begun...to cry.

She didn't care if they saw her crying, she didn't care if she looked terrible. For all she cared about right now is to just cry.

Her perspective of life had changed. She decided that she won't let any feeling, any thought, any opinion unexpressed. She's here to live loud. It is okay for her to be happy while making others happy, sacrifice is not a virtue. She shouldn't feel guilty or weak about bumming around sometimes if she feels like it; it's okay to ask for a favor and help. She won't wait to express her gratitude. She will stop collect ing people and will try hard to keep those who are worth keep ing in her life instead. She won't be used. She won't blindly follow any rules. She will stand for what she thinks is right. She will accept people as they are, but will not tolerate their shit. She won't take anybody's crap. She won't be a burden to anybody while she's perfectly capable of taking care of herself. She will practice and treasure sincerity. She will do good deeds, because she wants to, when she wants to, to whom she wants to, not because society dictates or pressures her to or to ask for praises but because it feels good.

And she will cry...

For she realized that crying isn't gonna make her weak. Instead it will make her stronger. She may not appreciate the tears that are falling from her eyes right now, but someday she will look back on this day and smile. Because she's glad that she had cried...

With Ichigo right next to her.

"I'm sor-sorry... I..I'm really sor-ry..."

Ichigo smiled softly as Rukia chocked, sobbed and cried her heart out against his chest. And just like that time, he laid a hand on top of her head and patted her gently before saying "As long as you're alright...then it's okay."

.

Rukia buried her face deeper against his chest while Ichigo moved his free hand and rubbed her back soothingly and affectionately.

.

The whole team watched them silently. With tears falling freely from her eyes, Inoue turned away from the couple. And as she continued to cry silently, a hand patted her on the shoulder and gave her a gentle squeezed. Turning at her side, she met gentle eyes gazing at her underneath a pair of glasses. Her eyes widened slightly and then her gaze fell down on the small piece of cloth being offered to her.

"Here, use this. I made it myself."

Looking down at the light pink handkerchief with a letter 'I' embroidered beautifully on it, Inoue gazed back at the guy. Their gazes met and somehow, Inoue managed to smile as she took the cloth from the guy's hand.

.

"Arigatou... Ishida-kun."

...o...

The Discipline committee announced a suspension order against Soi Fon, Macy and Stacey. Even Riruka was summoned and was suspended by her school because of grave misconduct and deliberate lying. And so the girls won't be attending school next semester at their respective universities.

Because of Soi Fon's attitude, Magi was elected to become the new Pep Squad captain, choosing Inoue to be her vice captain. Everyone in their team accepted her decision, thinking that Inoue deserved to be a vice captain, not only because of her talent but because of her courage, loyalty and love for her team and friends.

The school heard and was told the whole truth about the incident. Some approached Rukia and apologized. And though she didn't want them to apologize, the petite girl accepted them nevertheless. But aside from that big issue between her and the cheerleaders, the whole school was also dealing with another big revelation. And that is...
.

.

Pushing himself off the wall, Ichigo walked towards his girlfriend to meet her halfway. "How was it?" he asked.

"Hm...it's fine. I just had a little trouble at some questions. But I'm sure that I did great," Rukia replied with a large mischievous grin. She just finished her last exam and with that, her first semester in college was done.

"That's good," Ichigo said. He prepared to begin walking but not before reaching for her hand and intertwining his fingers with Rukia's very small ones. Rukia was a bit surprised at the gesture. She looked up at him but Ichigo was looking ahead, calm yet determined.

"Ichigo..." she said softly and received a light squeeze on her hand as a response. She smiled softly and took in a deep breath before looking ahead and started walking down the hallway...hand in hand with the famous orange haired basketball captain.

Now…it's really out and official.

Hope you like this...and please review. also I hope you still have time to check out my other fic...HOMEWORK...

See me on facebook... http: / / facebook. com / choonyoung17

...o...

That night...

"Ichigo, could you hand me the towel?" Rukia asked, after washing the last dish and placing it back on the rack.

"Here."

She heard Ichigo said. And without looking at him, she reached up for it but Ichigo suddenly grasped her wrist. Confused, she craned her neck to face him. "What are you-" she paused as she saw him gazing deeply at her. "Ichigo? What's..." she paused again as her boyfriend started to slowly lean down to her. She knew what was coming so she stood on her ground, tilting her head unconsciously as she waited for him to come closer. Blushes crept on their faces as they stared at each other's lips. And when Ichigo finally closed the gap between them, they closed their eyes and heaved in a deep breath in sync.

It was a soft kiss, a his-lips-touching-her-lips kind of kiss. But even so, it felt very sweet and passionate. It seemed like forever since they last shared a kiss that was filled with love and tenderness. There's no movement needed...cause they can already felt the love radiating from their heart that was sent out to the soft pressing of their lips. And for now, that is all they need.

After a long while, Ichigo slowly pulled away from her. And as he opened his eyes he found her purple orbs gazing tenderly at him. With a blush on their faces, Ichigo and Rukia laughed softly...realizing how silly they are for kissing each other all of a sudden.

Rukia punched his chest playfully, while Ichigo grinned and scratched the back of his head. Still smiling, she shook her head and turned at the laundry bag sitting next to the
washing machine. Ichigo headed to the living room and watched some random TV show. He yawned loudly as he lay down on the couch, prompting his head on one hand and started flipping through channels.

The most awaited sem break is here and he's never been this excited before. Just the thought of having a month long vacation from school, with his raven haired girlfriend made him grin...a wide idiotic grin.

"Ichigo?"

The 'images' forming on his head puffed out as Rukia stepped in the living room. "What are you grinning at?" she asked, looking at him skeptically.

Ichigo sat upright and shook his head, "Nothing. It was nothing." he answered sheepishly.

"Okay. Anyway, I was wondering about this favorite shirt of mine." she said, holding up a blouse and examining it a little. "I wonder how this got ripped. I mean, the buttons are gone and..."

As Rukia trails off, Ichigo stared at the said cloth and then his eyes widened.

That blouse...it was...he had...

"As I remembered, I was wearing this the night I went to the bar. Wait..." she paused and raised an eyebrow as she noticed Ichigo becoming red and uneasy. And there was an obvious 'I'm-in-trouble' look on his face right now. Placing her hands on her waist, Rukia continued. "Hm...I also remembered getting drunk and waking up in your room..."

She stepped towards him.

"...in your bed,"

Another step...

"...and in your shirt,"

Stopped right in front of him.

"Nothing but your shirt." she finished as she was now towering in front of her very nervous boyfriend.

"R-Rukia, I-"

"Why are you blushing?" Rukia growled, can't help but blush too. "Urgh...did you do something to me that night, Kurosaki?"

"Rukia, wait-"

"Uuurgh..."

"Calm down! I'll tell you what happened okay? Just calm down first," Ichigo negotiated and Rukia tried to control her temper.

"You have 60 seconds."

"What?"

"Now."

"You-were-so-drunk-that-night-so-I-let-you-sleep-on-my-bed-but-you're-sweating-all-over-so-I-asked-you-to-change-but-you-can't-managed-so-I-don't-have-a-choice-but-to-"

"Stop!" Rukia cut him off and Ichigo was silently thankful because he felt like passing out of breath. He was panting as he looked up at her. And he's not sure if the blush on her face is out of embarrassment or out of anger. He wished it was the first one. "So you're saying that you...u-undressed me?" Rukia asked, stuttering at the thought.

"Huh?"

"I'm asking you, Kurosaki. Did you. undressed. me?"

Ichigo gulped "No?"

Her eyes narrowed.

"Yes," he squeaked, and then...

.

"Wait, Rukia... I know it sounds embarrassing but-"

"Ichigo-uurgh..."

"Wait! Put that pot down, Rukia!"

Dodge left.

"Hey Listen! I changed your clothes but I wasn't looking at you, okay?"

Dodge right.

"Rukia, stop it! I didn't-dudge-see anything-dudge-… And besides there's-ducked down-NOTHING TO SEE!"

"..."

Uh-oh.

"YOU JERK!"

Crash! Kling! Toink! Tug-shenk! Ka-BOOOOM..!
.

.

.

.

.

10 minutes later...

Bam! Bam! Bam!

"Rukia, open this door now!"

.

Bam! Bam! Bam!

"You midget! You can't kick me out of my own house, dammit!"
.

BAM!

"Rukia! Open this damn door RIGHT NOOOW!"

.

.

.

Sigh...

"Rukia, c'mon... I'm sorry okay? It's not what I meant. I mean, I didn't exactly mean what I said about not seeing anything, cause honestly I've seen so much of you but-"

The lights went out.

"Shit...Rukia! I-It's not what I...I mean it's-Aah! Just let me in!"

"Rukia!"

"Rukia..!"

"RUKIAAAARRGGHH..!"

No one does Rukiaaargh! Like Ichigo/Morita does, ne?

PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW!

LoVeLoTs,

cY17