Disclaimer: I don't own Bleach.
Note: I'm sorry about the grammatical and typographical errors and the OOCness of the characters. This is an AU with Drama and Family Genres.
Note: Future Chapter Spoilers in my profile for my other two ongoing fics.(You Are My Love and The Promise of Origami) Thanks.
Please Read and Review after. Thank you.

Thank you to the people who listed this story as their favorite, to those people who followed, to those people who listed me as their favorite author, to those people who continued to read this and who continued to review and most especially to those people who didn't let go and continued their overwhelming support. You don't know how much it meant a lot to me. The success of this story is not because of me… but because of you! Thank you veeeeeeeery muuuuuuch~! I looooove you sooooo much you guys…!—Mari.

And finally, the final chapter.

—IchiRuki: The Destined Tale—
A Bleach AU Fanfiction
Written By: Mari Kia Aishiteru

Last time in IchiRuki: The Destined Tale…

The doctor dropped an atomic bomb. Rukia was pregnant with Ichigo's child. They wanted to keep it but were afraid of the complications. After all, Rukia was undergoing the chemotherapy. The doctor ensured them though that the child will be safe because of his treatments. Masaki and Isshin and Senna were the ones whom Ichigo had told the news about. And they surprisingly took it well. But then, the safety of the child still depends on Rukia.

"Love is our true destiny. We do not find the meaning of life by ourselves alone - we find it with another." —Thomas Merton

Tale 23
The Destined Future

It has been two months since Rukia's pregnancy.

The doctor had been so careful in her chemotherapy to avoid harming the child inside of her, which Ichigo was very thankful for. So far, it was all well and the child inside of Rukia was developing properly. Rukia had those mood swings, emotional depression and morning sickness common for a pregnant woman but it just came as hard as her chemotherapy. That was the reason why she was twice as tired as before.

Ichigo could tell that she was overdoing herself. He knew she wanted to keep the baby. Well, he did too but when it came to the point that the doctor had told them that she had to be operated to finally remove the tumor in her brain, he became afraid for her. It might be too much for her body to handle.

And so, he decided to talk to her about their recent obstacle.

It was early afternoon. Rukia lay down on her bed. Recently, she had been so bedridden because of body exhaustion. She had to rest always and to not do any strenuous activity. Heck, even walking already tire her out. So, he always made sure that she was on that bed even if she hated it.

He walked towards her and upon seeing him, she smiled softly despite herself. Her hands gently stroked her stomach. There wasn't any bump yet but Rukia tend to do that to assure herself that it will be okay and that their child was still there inside her.

Ichigo knew her so well.

"Rukia, how are you feeling?" he asked, sitting on the edge of her bed, facing her.

The raven haired smiled at him. "I'm feeling a lot better."

"That's good."

He let out a sigh which didn't go unnoticed by the girl in front of him. "What?" she asked him, perplexed.

"Well, I want to talk about your operation…"

"Oh, is it already decided?"

"Yeah, the doctor said it will be three days from now." He replied. "You should be ready."

"You mean, you should be ready, Ichigo."

"Eh? Why me?"

"Because you've been so tensed lately." She said, quite obviously. "I know you're worried but don't be. You should relax. I can manage it. Our child will be okay."

"Rukia… why don't we…"

She shook her head. She knew what he wanted to say.

"Ichigo, I don't want to let this child go. I want to raise this child, with you."

"But, Rukia," he cut her off seriously. "It might bring a complication to your operation."

"The doctor ensured us that nothing will happen right? Why are you so nervous?"

"Because I'm thinking of you!" he noticed that he was frustrated and took it out on her. He couldn't help it. "I just don't want to lose you!"

Rukia shook her head and sighed deeply. She looked in his eyes and held his hands in hers. "I'm not going anywhere. I told you right?" she smiled. "I wanted to live. And what I want. I get."

"Rukia…"

"Because I am Kuchiki Rukia."

Ichigo sighed and pouted at her which gained a soft laughter from Rukia. "You're so stubborn."

"Well, you wouldn't have me any other way, ne?"

"That's true too."

"Okay, now that's close, will you sleep with me?" the girl asked with hopeful eyes. The eyes Ichigo couldn't resist.

He just nodded with a grin and Rukia made way to give him space. They cuddled next to each other; her head on his chest as he kissed her head.

"Ichigo…"

"Hm?"

"I… love you."

"Yeah, I know. I do too."

"Hmmm…"

They stayed still until the orange haired boy could finally hear the soft breathing of the girl against him. He clutched her closer to him, not wanting to let go.

The day of the operation finally came upon them. Ichigo had called their parents and friends to inform them about it. He had also promised to contact them as soon as it finished.

Before the operation though, he had talked to Rukia and she had reassured him that she could pass this, that she could get through this. Actually, those were his lines. He was the one who should assure her, give her courage and strength to get through that operation but it became the opposite.

Rukia might have seen through him as always. She was so strong. She had been through tough times with her past before but now, she was still the same. And he was glad. He knew now that she could do it. She would be safe. She would be alright. She would come out of that emergency room safe and sound, with their child.

But still, sitting on the bench just outside of the emergency room, waiting for the doctor to come out was very nerve-wracking. His heart felt like it would jump out of his chest any time. He held his hands together as if in a prayer as he clutched them tightly for dear life.

He glanced at the clock on the wall across him. Six hours. Six hours had passed and still no news from the outside.

He felt like he would die with the fast beating of his heart.

After what seemed to be forever, but in reality it was only for ten more minutes, the door to the emergency room opened. He jumped from the sound and turned his head upward to face with Rukia's doctor. He was breathing heavily. He thought that he might be very exhausted. His normally friendly facial expression was gone, instead, his face bear a very serious expression. He immediately felt the fear in every part of his body.

D-Don't tell me… No! Don't you dare finish that thought, Ichigo!

He stood up shakily on his feet and faced the doctor. "R-Rukia… how is she?" he managed to asked as he read the facial expression of the doctor. But, to his surprise, the doctor's expression changed into one of those playful and his smile returned.

"The operation is successful, Kurosaki-san. Rukia-san is well."

Ichigo's eyes widened and he breathed a sigh of relief. But he remembered something. "B-But what about the…"

That smile hadn't left the doctor's face.

"The child is in condition and is normal."

The relief was overwhelming that he hadn't noticed he had slumped back on the bench behind him.

"Thank goodness. Thank goodness." He muttered repeatedly with a small smile.

"We will transfer Rukia-san to her room now for a much needed rest."

He looked up at him again and bowed. "Thank you very much for all of your help, Hatton-san."

Dr. Hatton nodded with a bright grin and patted his shoulder. "No worries. It is part of my job." He said. "Now go to her."

"Hai."

With that said, the door opened again and several nurses took out the sliding bed with Rukia on it. Her head was fully bandaged. He followed after it until it reached her room. The nurses bowed to him and he thanked them for their hard work before positioning himself again next to her bed.

Silence overwhelmed the room as he stayed there, just holding her hand in his.

Suddenly he jumped. He felt the vibration inside his pocket. "Oh, I totally forgot!" he uttered as he opened the door and sat on the bench outside of Rukia's room.

He answered the incoming call and before he could even say 'hello', he was met with a loud, "Why didn't you call us?!"

He rubbed his offended ear before replying to the caller. "I'm just about to, mom."

"How is it? Is Rukia okay?"

Ichigo smiled. "Yeah, she's okay now. And the baby too. They are both safe."

He heard several sighs from the other line. Wait, several sighs?

"Mom, who else is in there?"

"Well, your father of course, and your friends." Masaki replied. "They are so worried about Rukia and they went here to wait for your call."

"I see, don't tell me you're on speaker mode."

"Hm…"

"Where is Rukia now?" Isshin asked, with a tinge of relief in his voice.

"She's asleep in her room, Dad." He replied. "The doctor said she needs to rest."

"I see. That's good."

"Thank goodness, she's okay."

"What about you, Ichigo? Are you alright?" Masaki asked her son with uncertainty in her voice. She knew her son. He could forget everything just for someone important to him.

"I am, Mom. A bit tired but I'm alright."

"You sound tired, son. You should rest." Isshin's voice rang at the other line.

"Hai, I will."

"We won't keep you any longer." Masaki said. "Take a rest, okay?"

"Hm."

"Ichigo," Senna piped in. "Send our regards to Rukia."

"I will, Senna."

"Bye!"

"Yeah, bye."

The call went off. He sat there and let out a sigh. He stood up and walked inside the room and went back to his seat before he had received the phone call. He bent over with his arms over the bed and he leaned his face on them as he stared at the sleeping figure of the woman he love.

Rukia…

And he didn't even notice that watching her made him fell asleep as well.

She could feel herself floating.

She couldn't tell where she was.

She couldn't even remember why she was there at the first place.

The pain in her head gradually diminished. She tried to move her body but couldn't. She tried to think of anything but couldn't.

So she stayed still.

She wasn't aware of how many seconds, minutes, days, months or years it had been. But for a few moments, she heard a voice. A familiar voice.

The voice was calling out something. What was it?

She strained her both ears to hear well.

"…ia…"

It sounded like a whisper in the air. It sounded so far away.

She willed herself to open her eyes. As she did, all she saw was darkness. Endless darkness.

"…uia…"

That sound again. What was it saying? Why couldn't she hear it?

She tried to straighten herself. She thought it was weird. Earlier, she couldn't even move and now, she was moving on her own. It might something to do with the voice. I have to hear that voice then, she thought.

She started to navigate herself, (because she was floating) and floated towards the source of the voice.

"…uiaaaa…!"

She could hear it now. It was getting louder with each step she took.

"….ukiaaaaaa…!"

It was close.

"Rukiaaaaa!"

Rukia? Who was that? Is that her?

"Rukia!"

Yes, she remembered. It was her name. She is Rukia.

Wait, that voice was very familiar.

"Rukia, wake up!"

Wake up? Why? She was awake, wasn't she?

"We are all here, waiting for you!"

A different voice. A female voice. She also knew that voice. But, from where?

And suddenly, variety of memories flashed before her eyes.

"I'm Kuchiki Rukia, nice to meet you. Masaki-san." She gave a fake smile towards the lady who smiled back.

"It's my pleasure to meet you too." She said and then turned to Ichigo. "Anyway, this is my son Ichigo. He was about your age." She said as she nudged her son to say something.

Rukia continued to smile although Ichigo could tell that it was a fake one. She extended her hand towards him for a handshake. "Nice to meet you, Ichigo."

Ichigo stared at her extended hand suspiciously but returned the gesture nonetheless. They shook hands slowly. "Nice to meet you too, Rukia."

Their hands both gripped each other's ones. In a silent way, both of them declared war.

I'll make your life a living hell, strawberry-kun.

I'll never lose to you, midget bitch.

Both of them pulled their hands away but glared at each other.

.

Rukia smirked. "I will do everything in my power to get them out of the mansion."

Orihime looked at her with a worried expression. "Rukia… don't you think it's not right?"

"Hm? What is?"

"I think your father have them moved in with you guys because he wants you to know them fully."

"And your point is?"

"Why don't you give them a chance?"

"A chance? No way Orihime." Rukia laughed.

"Rukia… I'm serious."

"I know and I'm serious too." She narrowed her eyes at her.

"I don't want dad to marry again, especially not with her."

"Rukia, every woman your father dated, this is the only girl that he seriously love."

"Why do you say that? Maybe he's just bluffing…"

"Rukia, can't you see? He let them moved in with you! Meaning he's serious in her. Your father fell in love."

"That's crap. There's no way my father will fall in love."

"Why? Because of your mother?"

"Orihime…"

"Okay I won't talk about her again…" Orihime sighed. "But Rukia… please try to get to know them. Maybe she really loves your father."

"I don't want to. I don't want to trust anyone. You know that!"

"Rukia..."

.

"W-What a-are yo-you doing h-here?" she asked in complete bewilderment, stuttering.

Ichigo smirked at her reaction as he folded his arms against his chest. "It's very amusing to see you completely shock. It's refreshing to see you different other than your bitchy expression."

Like a slap to the face, Rukia glared at him deadly. "You fool! How dare you say that to me?"

"Are you not happy that I just clapped for you a while ago?"

"Why would be happy? I'm not that ignorant!"

"Oh?"

"Yes strawberry idiot stupid baka!" Rukia yelled at him as she stood up, facing him.

Ichigo's right eye twitched. "You have a loud mouth for a chibi."

"I'm not chibi!" she insisted.

"Yeah you're not, chibi." Ichigo said with a mocking tone as he emphasized the last word.

"You bastard!" she clenched her fists. Ichigo stayed calm as Rukia glared at him dreadfully.

"So, what the hell are you doing here? And how did you know I'm here in the first place?" Rukia asked again with the same glare intensity in her amethyst orbs.

"As for your first question, I'm here to give you some company. And for the second, I followed you here." Ichigo replied nonchalantly.

Rukia's eyes widened. "WHAT! YOU FOLLOWED ME?" she shrieked at him."How dare you stalked me?" Rukia continued as she breathed heavily from her fuming.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow. "I didn't stalk you, I followed you. That's completely different."

"That's completely the same idiot! You bastard!"

"Will you stop verbally harassing me?"

Rukia fumed at him but complied, then asked. "So, you said you're here to give me company. Well, I will say this to you right now. I don't want your 'company'. I don't even want to be friends with you. I don't want to see you. How would I be with a person whom I don't want to see?" she inquired with venom dripping in her voice.

"What do you think you are doing right now? You're looking at me right?" he countered. Rukia trembled with rage.

"You. Arrogant. Asshole. Idiot. Stupid. Bastard!" she emphasized each word with complete raged. "I hate you!"

"Yeah yeah I know. You hate me. Just let me be here with you, will you?" Ichigo asked. "Seriously?"

"You made me mad and now you still have the nerve to ask me that? You really are a bastard." She said in a low voice.

"I'm not a bastard. Now, will you just shut up and do what you want to do? I will just act like I'm not here."

"You're strawberry hair attracts attention so I'll get distracted." Rukia smirked triumphantly when she saw Ichigo glared at her.

"Stop it midget. I'm not here to fight with you." Ichigo said as he sat under the tree and leaned on its trunk.

Rukia crossed her arms against her chest with a 'hmphed' and sat down on her previous position.

They sat in silence. Rukia stared at the view before her while Ichigo closed his eyes with his hands folded at the back of his head. He sat on the other side of the tree so he couldn't see Rukia as well as her to him.

.

Rukia shook her head in bewilderment. "You're not going to ask me?"

"Ask you what?" he asked confused.

"Ask me why am I… like this. Why am I acting all bitchy and such…"

Ichigo smirked. "You finally admit that you are certainly acting like a bitch."

Rukia's cheeks reddened. "Shut up!"

Silence engulfed them until Ichigo spoke.

"If I ask you… would you tell me?" he asked softly. Rukia faced him.

"It's your problem. A deep, deep problem." He sighed. "I have no elegant way to ask you that without stepping in your heart." Rukia bowed her head to refuse to look at him. But the next words slipped past his lips made her stared at him in complete surprise and shock.

"So, I will wait. If you're ready to tell me then do so. I will wait until then." He finished with a soft genuine smile at her.

"You…" Rukia was speechless.

"Do you really mean that?"

"Of course."

"Why are you saying these things?"

Ichigo shrugged. "Because that's what in my mind. It's only natural to tell people what you think."

"I… envy you, Kurosaki Ichigo." She whispered but Ichigo clearly heard it.

"What are you—"

She looked at him hard as if silencing him. Ichigo shut his mouth. She looked at the view again.

There were no words exchanged after that. They stayed still with the comfortable silence.

.

"You have stage fright, strawberry?" she whispered with a smiling face as they both walked down the red carpeted stair. She was still facing the crowd. He glanced at her.

"Shut up midget." He mumbled in an annoying voice.

"Ooohhh~ the strawberry's afraid…" she cooed softly but in a teasing voice.

"This is my first time so I can't help it!" he hissed, almost changing blank expression but regained it immediately. They reached the end of the stairs that for Ichigo, it seemed to take forever. He glanced at Rukia who he found looking at him. She nodded at him as if telling him to do what she would do. Understanding it, Ichigo complied so when he saw her bowed before the people, he did the same. Rukia unexpectedly dragged him at the side but it wasn't noticeable.

.

She stomped her foot to create a loud sound, causing the two teens' attention to her. They looked at her with shock expressions.

"R-Rukia!"

She walked towards them.

"R-Rukia-chan…"

"Don't call me as if you're a trusted friend." Rukia said in a venom voice. She glared at the two of them.

She turned to Renji and punched him on the face, hard. He lay down on the floor at the impact. He coughed out blood.\

Rukia then slapped Orihime on the face. She did it so hard that her hand was imprinted on her face. She leaned on the wall at the impact.

"How long are you doing this to me?"

"Rukia…"

"Answer me!"

"T-Two years…" Orihime whispered with a bowed head.

Rukia took a deep breath and stood on her cold façade. She laughed.

Renji and Orihime stared at her in complete shock. "So for two years I've been a fool believing that you two have been good to me all this time?" Rukia said. "I bet you were talking behind my back about how stupid I am for believing you, right?"

"T-That's not true!" Orihime denied. "We never did that. You are important to us Rukia. We don't do things that would betray you!"

"And what do you think you did now? Isn't this what you call betrayal?" Rukia glared at her. "Don't talk so highly as if you didn't do anything wrong."

"Don't ever talk to me again. I don't want to have anything to do with you two. This is the last time will speak to each other." With that she turned and left, walking down the same way she took a while ago.

.

"Masaki-san?"

Masaki seemed surprise when she called out her name but she smiled at her. "Yes?"

"I hope it's not that too late but… can I…" she took a deep breath to encourage herself. "… can I still call you, mom?"

Masaki smiled widely and gripped her both of her hands closed to her chest. "Of course, it's not too late. You can call me your mom, Rukia-chan."

Rukia didn't have to hide anymore. She let the tears fall on her cheeks. She couldn't suppress the overwhelming feelings any longer. She couldn't explain the feeling but she knew it was a positive one. She would give herself a chance. That was what she decided.

Masaki pulled her close to her and wrapped her arms around her. She soothed her back as she kissed her forehead. "You don't know how long I waited for you to call me 'Mom', Rukia-chan." She whispered softly as she caressed her.

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry for all of the mean things I've done." She apologized desperately.

Masaki shook her head. "Don't be. I understand. Forget it now. The most important thing right now is that you finally accepted me in your life."

Rukia nodded her head with a smile.

Tears of happiness continued to stream down her face as she snuggled in Masaki's embrace. It was as if she waited for this for a long time and Masaki knew it. She longed for a touch of a mother.

.

"I'm so sorry for what I've done to you, for teasing and annoying you and for being rude to you and to your mother. I'm very sorry. I hope you can still forgive me." She whispered the last sentence with uncertainty.

Ichigo turned to his mother who smiled and nodded. He smiled back at her before looking to Rukia.

"Hey, straight up." he said softly.

Rukia straightened up but refused to meet his amber eyes.

"Apology accepted."

Just two words but those words meant a lot for Rukia. It was relieving.

"Thank you."

Ichigo stood up and patted her head. "You're welcome." Rukia smiled.

.

"Hello, Rukia-chan!" she greeted with a wide smile.

Rukia stared at Senna for the longest time. She was like reading the girl. And then she saw Senna winked at her. That made Rukia smile.

"Hello, Senna-san."

"Oh! Drop off the suffix! Just call me Senna!"

"Okay, Senna it is then."

"Great!"

Hinamori seemed to be jealous of Senna so she approached Rukia too. "Ne ne! Rukia-chan! Call me Momo-chan too!" she said as she wailed.

Rukia giggled unconsciously at Momo's childish behavior. Her giggles seemed to surprise the class. "Okay, Momo-chan, hello."

"Yay!" she beamed as she held Rukia's hands in hers. "We're friends now ne?"

Rukia's eyes widened and she caught Ichigo's ambers on her amethyst ones. She saw him smile and nod at her.

She then turned to Momo and grinned. "Sure Momo-chan."

Momo jumped in the air childishly. "Yay!" she then clung to her boyfriend. "Shirou-chan, you hear that? Rukia-chan is our friend now!"

Toushirou sighed at his girlfriend. "Okay okay. Just stop jumping childishly will you?"

Momo pouted but obliged. "Shirou-chan, you're so mean."

The white haired guy patted his girlfriend's head. Momo seemed to cheer up again.

"Yo guys!"

"Oh, Shuuhei!" that was Senna.

"I see you're having fun so early in the morning."

"Yes Shuuhei! Rukia-chan is our friend now! Isn't that great?" Momo said as she hugged Rukia from behind. When did she get there from Toushirou's side?

"Oh, welcome in the group Rukia-chan! I'm Hisagi Shuuhei by the way."

"Yeah, I know you. But nice to meet you." Rukia said with a smile. She then met Toushirou's gaze and he smiled at her. Rukia nodded with a slight grin.

.

"I wasn't mad because you guys did that thing to me. I was mad because you were the ones who did that. The two persons who I trusted with everything and my best friends ever since I was young. I was disappointed to you guys."

Orihime and Renji hung their heads in shame. Ichigo watched from afar, panting as he leaned on the glass door.

"But you know," Rukia continued, looking from Renji to Orihime with a soft smile. "I guess I never regret being friends with you two even after what happened."

Renji grinned and Orihime's eyes widened. "Rukia…-chan…" Tears gathered in her eyes. She sniffled and couldn't help but enclosed her friend in her embrace. Rukia returned the gesture, rubbing her back.

"Rukia-chan, I'm so sorry. I'm really, really sorry…" she said between controlled sobs. Rukia shook her head. "No, Orihime. It's okay now. Don't cry."

"I'm sorry…" she repeated as she pulled away. Rukia brushed her long hair and patted her shoulder. "I'm sorry too, for slapping you."

Orihime shook her head. "No, I deserved it. You don't need to apologize for that."

Rukia smiled at her as Orihime dried up her tears. Suddenly, a boy called out to them saying that the plane would have to leave. Rukia clasped Orihime's hands in hers causing her to look at the raven haired girl.

"Orihime, take care okay? Call me when you arrive their safely."

"Okay. I will." Orihime embraced Rukia for the last time and grinned widely. "Thank you Rukia-chan. Take care."

Rukia nodded. "I will."

Orihime looked at Renji. "Renji."

He nodded. "Bye. Look after yourself."

"Okay."

"Bye, Orihime."

"Bye Rukia-chan. See you."

"Yeah, later."

She walked in the plane and before the door close, she waved at them and smiled brightly. "Bye you guys!"

Rukia and Renji waved at her and Ichigo just smiled.

And the door finally closed.

Rukia turned to Renji and they both smiled to each other. He stepped forward at her and ruffled her hair.

"Rukia, I know you couldn't resist coming here."

She nodded. "Yeah, I hesitated though."

"But now, I'm glad that the three of us became friends again."

"Eh? Wait, I thought that the two of you are…"

Renji shook his head. "No, we split up because you were devastated. We were both so guilty that time so we ended everything and became good friends."

"That's good I guess." Rukia said. "But you still love her, like you told me last night."

Renji sighed. "Yeah, but even so… it wouldn't change the fact that I couldn't do anything to stop her from leaving. She is determined to reach her dream and so… we need to support her, right?" he finished.

"Yeah, you're right." Rukia smiled as she looked up at the sky where the plane had disappeared into. Renji stared at it too, with a smile.

.

"I am falling in love with you. I love you Rukia."

"I-Ichigo I—"

"I know this is wrong and all but I just couldn't hide it and—"

"Ichigo, let me talk—"

"—I really want you to know because I—"

"Ichigo—"

"—couldn't hold it in for much longer and I—"

"ICHIGO!"

"What?"

"I love you too baka."

"Rukia, I—What?" he was frozen on the spot. He didn't know if he even heard her utter those words he wanted to hear.

"You heard me, I love you too, Ichigo." She smiled softly at him.

"Rukia…"

"Ichigo…"

They both leaned closer and the gap between them finally closed. Their kiss was slow as if savoring each other's taste for the first time. Their tongue quickly met and they danced as one. Ichigo caressed her cheeks as Rukia pulled him closer by clutching onto his orange hair. It lasted for awhile but then, they parted. They both grinned widely at each other without untangling physical contact.

"I never thought you feel the same way."

"Me too, Ichigo." Rukia then lowered her gaze. Ichigo noticed it. "What's wrong?"

"But this is wrong. You know it, just like you said earlier."

Ichigo nodded. "Yes, but we can hide it for a while. I'm just happy that I finally got to tell you how I feel." Rukia smiled. "Me too. This is the first time I felt this. I never felt this to anyone, even Renji."

"I'm happy that I'm the one who made you feel this way then."

Rukia giggled. "Oh great, raised your ego up again."

"Your fault."

They both laughed softly. "I love you, Rukia."

"I love you too Ichigo."

And they kissed again.

.

"Rukia, you have a Brain Tumor." She finally said.

Rukia's eyes widened as she stared at her lap. She knew her parents were worried. Ichigo probably knew about this already and was worried about her. She also wanted to see him now and tell him that she was okay to relieve his worries. But she knew it wasn't enough for that.

She looked at her parents. They had a guilty look on their faces. She didn't know why.

"I… knew that." She said softly but the two adults heard her and looked her way.

"Rukia…"

"I knew something is wrong with me… I denied it, because I don't want to be like this. I don't want to worry you. But, I guess it's just me."

"Rukia, don't worry. You're going to be okay. There's still a way to cure you." Isshin said, holding his daughter's hands.

"What is it? Taking chemotherapy?" she asked.

"Yes. Please Rukia. Undergo the chemotherapy." Looking at her father now, Rukia could tell he was desperate.

"Dad, I'll do it."

Isshin and Masaki stared at her. Rukia smiled. "I want to live."

.

"You've decided, huh?" he asked instead with a light smile. Rukia nodded.

"Yeah, I want to live. Even though we don't know what will happen, I want to take the risk. Because I still want to be with everyone..." She touched his cheek and leaned towards him. "…with you."

The gap between them decreased and Ichigo wrapped his arms tightly around her. It was a simple kiss but Rukia could feel his love for her. She was sure lucky to have him. Ichigo, on the other hand, could feel her desire to live to be with everyone she came to love… to be with him forever.

.

"They are very understanding." He said. "They gave us their blessing."

Rukia smiled softly as she looked at her lap. "Hm. They want us to be happy, Ichigo."

"Yeah, you're right. They told me that too."

"I'm so glad we didn't have to hide any longer." She said as she offered her hand, which her step brother took in his own hand.

"Yeah."

"Ichigo…"

"Hmmm?"

"I want to live with mom and dad, with our friends…" she stared at him with such passion and love that he wanted to kiss her then and there so passionately. "…and with you… forever."

"Rukia…" he leaned in and closed the gap between them, kissing her with such love that he knew would overwhelmed her. He wanted her to know how much he wished that too and how much he loved her.

Rukia returned his kiss with the same amount of passion and she could feel that he wanted to be with her, forever.

.

"Rukia," Senna began, as their other three friends said their goodbyes to Ichigo. "I know you can past through this. Ichigo will be with you so I'm not worried. But, always remember that, we will all be here, waiting for you to come back."

.

"Ichigo… I'm pregnant."

"P-Pregnant..."

"Yes!" Rukia blasted. "The doctor said I'm pregnant! For two weeks now!"

"But that's…" Ichigo was flabbergasted. "W-Wouldn't that be bad for the baby…?"

Rukia sighed as if understanding what he meant. She leaned on the couch in her hospital room and casted down her gaze. "I know. There might be a complication, the doctor told me."

"What did you tell the doctor?"

"I told him I'll talk to you first and we can talk to him about it tomorrow."

"I… see."

Rukia refused to look at him.

"Rukia, what do you want to do?" He asked her. "I… I want to keep the child, Ichigo. I really want to… but…"

"Then we'll keep it." He cut her off. She gazed at him with worried eyes. "B-But…!"

"It will be okay, Rukia. We will ask the doctor for a way to make the baby safe. Don't worry."

"Ichigo…"

"Rukia, I love you and I know we will get through this."

The girl smiled brightly and nodded. Leave it up to Ichigo to cheer her up.

"I love you too, baka."

He kissed her forehead affectionately before embracing her tightly against him.

.

"Well, I want to talk about your operation…"

"Oh, is it already decided?"

"Yeah, the doctor said it will be three days from now." He replied. "You should be ready."

"You mean, you should be ready, Ichigo."

"Eh? Why me?"

"Because you've been so tensed lately." She said, quite obviously. "I know you're worried but don't be. You should relax. I can manage it. Our child will be okay."

"Rukia… why don't we…"

She shook her head. She knew what he wanted to say.

"Ichigo, I don't want to let this child go. I want to raise this child, with you."

"But, Rukia," he cut her off seriously. "It might bring a complication to your operation."

"The doctor ensured us that nothing will happen right? Why are you so nervous?"

"Because I'm thinking of you!" he noticed that he was frustrated and took it out on her. He couldn't help it. "I just don't want to lose you!"

Rukia shook her head and sighed deeply. She looked in his eyes and held his hands in hers. "I'm not going anywhere. I told you right?" she smiled. "I wanted to live. And what I want. I get."

"Rukia…"

"Because I am Kuchiki Rukia."

Ichigo sighed and pouted at her which gained a soft laughter from Rukia. "You're so stubborn."

"Well, you wouldn't have me any other way, ne?"

"That's true too."

"Okay, now that's close, will you sleep with me?" the girl asked with hopeful eyes. The eyes Ichigo couldn't resist.

He just nodded with a grin and Rukia made way to give him space. They cuddled next to each other; her head on his chest as he kissed her head.

"Ichigo…"

"Hm?"

"I… love you."

"Yeah, I know. I do too."

That was right. She remembered now. Everyone.

Dad.

Mom.

Orihime.

Renji.

Senna.

Momo-chan.

Toushirou-kun.

Hisagi-kun.

And…

For some reason, her moments with him hit her the most.

She felt tears on her cheeks.

"Ichigo…"

Upon whispering his name, his voice became loud and clear in her ears. "Rukia!"

"Ichigo!" she had screamed at the darkness. All of a sudden, a light came from in front of her and it spread, covering the darkness completely. She closed her eyes. All she could feel was warmth. She knew this warmth.

It was his warmth. It was him. All of him. She missed him very much. All she wanted was to go back in his arms.

"Ichigo…"

"Rukia! Come to me! Come back to me!"

"I want to. I will!"

And everything went dark again.

The raven haired girl, Rukia, felt her body still on a soft bed.

A bed? Yes, she realized that she was laying on a bed. She willed her eyes to open and as she did so, she closed it again. She was blinded by the sudden light.

Ever so slowly, she opened it again and blinked, adjusting her vision with the light.

Her vision cleared and she realized she was in her room.

This place… my room… in the hospital…

She remembered.

That's right. Tumor. The operation. My operation. Am I dead?

If she was, why was she feeling something in her hand? There was warmth in her hand. Was someone holding her? Another hand?

She tried to move her fingers and feel the hand in hers. She knew that feeling. She knew. And there was only one person who had the hand who was holding her right now.

"I-Ichi…go…" she whispered. Suddenly, a face came to her vision. His face. He was here.

She studied his face. It was still the same. But for some reason, his face was tensed. She knew. He was worried about her and for their child.

"Rukia?"

She heard him say in uncertain.

"Ichi…go…" she repeated.

"Are you okay?" he asked as he continued to stare at her. Rukia gave a small nod, enough for the orange haired boy to see.

"Does it still hurt?"

She nodded again. "A… little… bit."

He nodded with a frown. "Yeah, the doctor said it is normal. But it will vanish soon. You just had the operation."

"Hm…" she hummed in agreement.

Ichigo sat down on his seat next to the bed. He stared at her. He was relief she was awake now but she was still tired and needed her rest.

"T-The baby…" she whispered and Ichigo smiled.

"Our baby is okay, Rukia."

He saw her sigh in relief. "Thank… you…"

Her eyes closed again and he let out a small smile as he saw the rise and fall of her chest, indicating that she had fallen asleep.

"No…" he whispered. "Thank you, Rukia." He kissed her hand.

Thank you for being alive.

Eleven Years Later…

She woke up and sat up on her bed. She yawned and stretched, looking over her window. Her curtain was neatly drawn away from the window. She sighed.

It must be her sister again who had drawn the curtains to wake her up.

She went to the bathroom in their room to take care of her morning routine. Once outside, she looked over at the clock on the wall. There was still thirty minutes before school. It took them fifteen minutes to walk from their home to the school so it was enough to eat breakfast.

Perfect.

She donned her school uniform, tied her shoulder length black hair up and went out of the room.

Arriving in the dining hall, she saw her father reading a newspaper. "Good morning, dad." She greeted as she sat on the chair on his left.

The said father looked over to her and let out his goofy grin. "Good morning my dear daughter!"

The raven haired girl rolled her eyes. For some reason, her father was weird. Weird in a way that he was very open with his feelings, very expressive towards his daughters and wife.

Most of the fathers were not like that right?

Well, never mind that.

A maid of the family set the food in the table. As usual, it looked so delicious, courtesy of her mother and twin sister. She have a very obvious future ahead of her. She was very great in cooking. Even exceeded their mother's talent.

To say that she was proud of her sister was an understatement.

And hey, she was great with something too. Soccer was the best choice she ever had and now they were competing with other schools and winning.

To say that she was proud herself was an understatement.

Back to the present, the food and everything were all set up and her little twin sister came in the dining hall. Donned in the same uniform she had, her shoulder length chestnut colored hair lay down as usual, she smiled brightly as she greeted, "Good morning, Karin-chan! I'm glad you're awake now."

"Hai, hai, Good morning, Yuzu."

Her mother came in with what looked like a bowl of rice. "Good morning, Karin."

"'Morning mom." She smiled.

They all sat down and ate their breakfast.

"Karin, how's the game?" Masaki asked her daughter who was eating quite fast. "And eat slower please."

"But, mom, I don't want to be late."

"Your fault for waking up so late."

"Hai hai."

"So?" Her father asked, continuing her mother's question from earlier.

"Well, we won the last game and we are now preparing for the semi finals."

"That's great. Good luck! We'll be there to cheer you on!"

"Really?"

"Yeah, why not?" Isshin chuckled. "It is always Yuzu who cheers on you. I want to see you playing."

"Sure. If you see me playing though, don't cry please." Karin muttered as she playfully glared at their father. "I don't want to be embarrassed."

"Karin-chan, that's not nice."

"Well, I'm not."

"Well, well, eat now or you're going to be late."

"Hai!"

After eating their breakfast, the twins declared their goodbye to their parents and walked out of the house to school, Karakura High.

Masaki and Isshin smiled as they sent their twin daughters goodbye. Disappearing from their sight, Masaki let out a small laugh.

"What is it?" Isshin wondered.

Masaki turned to him. "Nothing, I'm just happy."

The man nodded with a small smile. "Yeah, I'm happy too."

"I never thought I will see this day. Our fraternal daughters are growing up so fast."

"Hmm… They are both talented and different in their own way." Isshin muttered.

She stared into space and Isshin nudged his wife. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." She shook her head. "I just thought of my son. You know, I raised him myself and I just couldn't help but miss him."

"Hm, me too. I miss Rukia."

"Those two… they will be forever our children, Isshin."

"Yeah, they know that."

"Oh! They said they will visit if Karin's team won the finals." Masaki piped.

"So that's why Karin is very determined to win."

"She wants to see those two so badly. And of course her nephew."

"That boy is really cute. I want to see him too."

"Yes." Masaki hugged her husband and the latter embraced her tightly. They never thought that this day will ever come. And now that it was here already, they were glad that their decisions lead them to this very happy and satisfying life.

It was that another day of that certain year. Every year, they always meet in that place. The place where they hang out ever since they graduated from high school.

Each of them has chosen their own path in their respective prestigious universities. It couldn't be helped that they have to part from each other. But, in their hearts, they were still together. Their bonds of friendship will never die from their hearts.

With waist length purple hair tied up in a ponytail and donned in a simple bright red dress that accentuated her curves, Koizumi, no, Kuchiki Senna sat at the bar counter, silently drinking her ordered tequila. It had always been her favorite, ever since she drank it with her husband on their first meeting. She smiled at that thought.

Yes, two weeks after Senna and her friend's graduation eleven years ago, Kuchiki Byakuya had prepared for their wedding himself. It was sweet of him. She was happy because ever since that omiai, even though it was an arrange marriage for their business' sake, she had love him. She loves him, even now. And though her husband was cold looking and not expressive in their ten years marriage, she knew that he cared for her and moreover, loved her as a woman. Their nine year old daughter was the proof of that.

The girl shook her glass with a smile as the ice created a sound. She stared at it with an amused smile. However, she jumped when a voice from behind startled her.

"Hey dear, lonely?" a voice that clearly came from a man asked from behind.

She felt a vein popped on her forehead as she rolled her eyes towards him. She knew that voice so well.

"Aren't you tired of saying that every single time we meet, Shuuhei?"

The man donned in a black coat and simple blue jeans with his dark blue hair much longer than before, Hisagi Shuuhei, grinned at his friend and sat down beside her. "Sorry, I'm pretty late." He said as he called on the bartender and ordered a glass of vodka. "Where are the others?"

She shook her head. "Not here yet."

He chuckled. "Oh, then I'm not late yet?"

She glared at him. "No, you are late." She sighed and drank from her glass. "Those two are very much late."

"Well, give them some slack, Sen." Shuuhei shrugged and thanked the bartender from bringing him his vodka. "You know those two, always busy with their work."

"I don't get the whole point of 'I'm going to miss you' when those two are just one office away from each other."

"Well, our Momo is friendly and cheerful but you know how possessive she is of our Shirou-chan." The blue haired man stated.

"Hmm… That's true too."

Hitsugaya Toushirou had chosen to continue his family's business. And Hinamori Momo, who didn't want to be away from her Shirou-chan, had also chosen to study with him in the same school to be with him. And currently, they were working in the same company with different departments. Momo was the head of their own department. She was pretty good with what she do, as Senna knew.

Senna stared at Shuuhei for a moment. "What?" the man asked as he noticed his friend's look on him.

"How's Miyu-chan?"

The blue haired man leaned his elbow on the counter and his cheeks on his palm as he faced Senna. "She's managing the art gallery. I asked her to come. But she refused saying that she have to stay there for a client who will come in tonight." He explained. "She is the one who told me the date today." He said sheepishly with a small smile.

Hisagi Shuuhei always wanted to be sculpture artist and with his girlfriend's efforts, she made his dreams come true. Five years ago, his girlfriend since high school, Nanase Miyuki, opened up her own art gallery. Her passion was painting and her paintings became popular in different countries. Her gallery was full of her paintings and his sculptures who became popular too. He had been so doubtful about his skills before but his girlfriend and friends had encouraged him and now, here he was. Popular as could ever be.

Senna shook her head at his explanation. "She's still your calendar even after all these years. I feel so sorry for Miyu-chan."

"Well, Miyuki loves me though."

"And she's an idiot I think."

Shuuhei playfully pouted. "You are still so mean after all these years, Sen."

"Tsch, I am what I am."

"Hm…" he hummed in agreement.

An embrace from behind startled Senna for the second time that night.

But she knew this warm embrace and relaxed immediately in her arms. "Momo."

"I missed you Senna-chan."

"I did too."

She let go of her and Senna observed her form as she sat on the seat on her other side, so she sat next to her. She saw Toushirou who only waved at the two of them. Shuuhei greeted, "Yo, Toushirou!" whom he replied with "Same as ever, I see, Shuuhei."

"And you're so cold as ever."

"Shut up."

Momo and Senna couldn't help but giggle.

The white haired man had his hair much longer than before and he looked quite handsome in his new look. He donned a simple white polo shirt and black pants while his girlfriend was as beautiful as ever, donned in a white tank top and black knee-length shirt, paired with a short length high heeled brown boots.

"How come you two are late?" Senna glared at the two.

"Well… um…"

Her glare changed into one of raising her eyebrows. She stared at Momo carefully. She was… blushing. She stared at Toushirou. He was staring anywhere other than her. And the two were late.

Something clicked inside her mischievous head and she smirked.

"You two… something happened… between you two." She said and Shuuhei stared at the two with utmost interest.

The couple refused to look at each of them.

Senna scanned Momo and when her eyes reached her hand, she saw a glint around her left finger. Her left ring finger.

She gasped. "Oh! Momo!"

The woman was startled at her friend. "W-What?"

Senna grabbed her hand and stared at her finger. "This is—"

"Wh—"

Momo's protest died down as she looked down, blushing.

Shuuhei also had his eyes wide and Toushirou wasn't still looking at them until he heard a claim, "Damn, Toushirou! About time!"

Senna genuinely smiled towards the couple. "Wow, congratulations you two. About time you two get married."

Toushirou looked at Senna and Shuuhei and saw them smiling. He couldn't help but smile too. "Thank guys."

Momo looked up shyly and grabbed her hand back from Senna who let go of it. "It is a beautiful ring, Momo-chan."

"Hm, you're right. I'm so surprised when he showed it to me!" she chimed with a giggle, shyness gradually fading.

"So, when did you propose, Toushirou?" Shuuhei asked.

When the white haired man didn't reply, the two friends looked at Momo for an answer. Momo blushed again and she whispered, "A… A while ago."

"W-What?!" they both exclaimed.

"I can't believe it!"

"So that is why you two are late!"

"Toushirou you sly!"

The two continued as Toushirou and Momo kept their silence. After Senna and Shuuhei had settled down, "So, how did he propose to you, Momo-chan?" Shuuhei asked curiously.

The blush on her face increased if that was even possible. She couldn't help it. Whenever she remembered the scene thirty minutes from now, she could feel her heart beat fast and her face filled up with warmth. Something that the only one who could do was Toushirou.

"Momo."

He walked towards her who was standing there in the middle of her apartment. He was going to fetch her up in order for them to go to the bar where they would meet Senna and Shuuhei, every year of that day.

Something in his voice made her conscious and before she could reply, he was standing directly in front of her, with a serious look in his eyes. "S-Shirou-chan?"

"You know I love you right?" he asked. She smiled. "Of course."

"Then," he kissed her lightly at first which she had returned. And then, it became so deep that he immediately attacked her mouth with his tongue. It made her body tingle with warmth and need and desire. She wanted him more than ever there and then but they shouldn't because they have to meet their friends. It was a promise they had all made after their graduation.

The kiss was broke as they breathe for air. When Momo finally caught her breath, she was shocked when she heard him escape his lips, "Marry me."

"What?"

"I said," he shoved a ring around her finger. "Marry me."

She didn't even notice the ring and how it was shoved just like that around her finger. Well, Shirou-chan had always been so mysterious.

"I…" Toushirou kissed her again. She couldn't think of any other answer. All she could think was that simple yet meaningful word that would become the beginning of everything.

The kiss broke again for the second time and as they stared in each other's eyes, she said, "Yes."

She clutched her cheeks as it grew a bright shade of red. "Um… Momo?"

She looked over at her friends who were giving her a curious expression.

I don't think I can say that to them. It is embarrassing.

"Um… Shirou-chan!" Her eyes wandered to her boyfriend slash fiancé who stared at her in surprise. "I want to dance!"

"Oh, okay. Come on." He replied. He knew she wanted to avoid the question of their friends and he would be glad to help her out. After all, it was embarrassing for him, especially for him.

The couple danced in the dance floor while Senna and Shuuhei stared at their backs.

"Those two are hiding it."

"Yeah, my curiosity is killing me." Shuuhei muttered.

"No worries, I always have my ways to know what I want to know."

Shuuhei smirked. "That's what I love about you, Sen!"

Senna smirked evilly as she stared at the two dancing lovers.

Might as well enjoy ourselves. She thought as she invited Shuuhei to dance with her.

"Dad!"

He woke up from his place on his table at the voice of his son. He sat up and saw his black haired son's figure walking up to him with his purple eyes shining brightly. He got his eyes and hair from his mother but he was a carbon copy of his father. Ichigo smiled, sleepiness wearing off of him. Seeing his son's smile was making him feel energized enough to work.

The dark haired young boy grinned and sat on his father's lap. "Good morning, Dad!"

"Good morning, Shuku. How did you manage to come here?"

"Mom came with me. You know she wouldn't even let me out of the house on my own." The eleven year old boy pouted as he told that to his father.

"That's true too."

"But I think mom is overprotective." He said. "I'm old enough to buy things for myself out of the house."

The orange haired father sighed. "Auru, I already explained this to you right?"

"Right, that mom cares for me too much that is why she is like that."

"Yes, she is afraid of losing you so listen to your mom always, okay?"

The boy nodded. The father smiled. "That's my boy."

He ruffled the boy's hair. "Where's your mom?"

"She's…"

"Ichigo."

"…here."

Kurosaki Ichigo turned to the door to look at his wife of ten years, Kuchiki Rukia. Her hair was shorter and she looked so mature, so different in the past few years. But if you ask him, he would say that she was still the same Kuchiki Rukia he met and fell in love with years ago.

"Good morning, Rukia."

The raven haired wife crossed her arms against her chest. "What do you think you are doing in here?" she asked, ignoring his cheerful greeting.

"What? Are you mad at me?"

"Why shouldn't I be?" she asked and the young boy on his lap stared at his father as Ichigo glanced at him. He saw his son gave him a shrug with a remark of, "She was worried all night for you. It's your fault, Dad."

He put the child down with a gulp and sighed. The young boy sat on the couch inside his father's office. He just stayed there. He knew better than to interfere with his parents' affairs. And his mother was pissed off. There was no way he would be dealing with her mother this mad. At the age of eleven, the boy knew the flaws of his parents.

"Rukia…"

"Ichigo, I thought I told you before that if you aren't in condition to go home, please call. That is the only thing I want from you. But you didn't and if I didn't call the hospital last night and learnt from them that you are too exhausted to go home because of an operation last night I wouldn't have known!"

"I'm sorry! After that operation I just got asleep and wasn't able to call you."

Rukia glared at him.

He stood up from his seat and walked towards her with a hopeful look on his face.

"Rukia…"

"Ichigo, I don't like you getting me worried. You know that."

"I know…" he grabbed her both hands. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean it. I promise I will call before and after an operation."

The wife raised an eyebrow.

"Really?"

"Really."

"Promise?"

"Promise."

Rukia closed her eyes and let out a deep sigh. "I'm sorry, Rukia. I'm sorry to make you worried about me."

The raven haired woman opened her eyes and stared at her husband's guilt filled amber eyes. Hell, she couldn't resist getting mad at him for so long.

"Fine. We're good."

"Thank goodness." He said. "Thank you."

"Well, you owe me and your son."

Ichigo grinned. "Sure. What do you want for breakfast?"

Shuku grinned, a grin that was the exact copy of his father's grin, Rukia noted. "I want spaghetti!"

"Oh, okay. Let's go. Dad's treat."

The boy stood up from his seat and wrapped his arm around his mother's other arm. Rukia couldn't help but smile. Her son was very affectionate to them.

"I'm hungry, let's go Mom."

"Hai, hai."

"Just let me get my coat." Ichigo said.

Rukia smiled and kissed her husband as their son let out a squeak of embarrassment.

They broke apart and left his father's room.

Although embarrassed, he could tell that his parents love each other.

They worry, they smile, they laugh, they cry but above anything else, they show love to each other and nothing could ever take that away from them.

He felt so lucky to be their son who was also filled with their love.

Because Kurosaki Shukumei knew.

His existence was his parents' proof of love.

And he couldn't have them any other way.

.

.

.

.

.

And thus, the story of destiny continues…

A/N: And that CONCLUDES the final chapter. OFFICIALLY AND FINALLY DONE.

Seriously, I think this became a very long chapter because of the flashbacks I copied from the earlier chapters. Well, I want to do that to refresh your minds. :)

Well, seriously, I love the epilogue and I hope you did too. To summarize, Hisagi Shuuhei and his girlfriend, (still girlfriend even after eleven years, yeah, boring right?) Nanase Miyuki, (my OC) owned an art gallery wherein Hisagi is a sculptor and his girlfriend is a painter. Next, we have Senna who married Byakuya and is helping him with his business which I never and will never reveal. (I'm too tired of thinking, sorry.) And finally, Toushirou and Momo who were working in the same company (which I will never reveal too because I'm too tired to think of it) were also engaged to be wed. Ichigo became a doctor in England, (if you notice, Masaki mentioned that they will visit if Karin won to the finals of their soccer game, that means Ichigo and Rukia stayed in England with their son, Shukumei which means "Destiny") and Rukia became an impatient housewife. (giggles) Isshin and Masaki came up with two daughters, Karin and Yuzu.

I hope you all now understand the epilogue. Sorry if there is any problems about it. Oh, well, I'm officially done with this and now, I'll be focusing on "YOU ARE MY LOVE". I want to finish that one too.

Oh, and thank you for your support. I'm so glad with the reviews and all. Thanks a lot.

Don't forget to Review! :D (For the last time)

Word Count: 9, 996

April 9, 2014 —Mari Kia Aishiteru. Officially now closing off this story of destiny.

See you in "You Are My Love!"