Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The Vizard warehouse, nestled in the peaceful town of Karakura, seemed like an ordinary place on this beautiful Saturday morning. The serene atmosphere was perfect for outdoor activities, and the early sunlight painted everything in a warm, golden hue. The picturesque scene was completed by a serene lake nearby, inviting anyone to enjoy a leisurely picnic.

As the sun continued its ascent, the morning became a canvas of tranquility. Birds filled the air with their melodic tunes, and the gentle breeze rustled through the trees, creating a soothing backdrop for the day.

However, the idyllic calmness was suddenly disrupted as the cheerful chirping of birds ceased, leaving the atmosphere in a tense stillness. From within the Vizard warehouse, a voice shattered the peaceful morning – unmistakable curses emanated from Sarugaki Hiyori. Her mutterings included phrases like "entitled Baldy," "minding my own business," "fucking Shinigami," and "I ain't no tour guide."

Hachi, Lisa and Love, the three other inhabitants of the warehouse, exchanged amused glances. Hiyori's outbursts in the early hours of the day were far from unusual. Hachi, with his calm demeanor and expertise in Kido spells, continued to tinker with his various devices, Lisa hide immediately in her room and Love, the laid-back and easygoing member of the group, simply leaned back and sipped his morning tea, seemingly unphased by the commotion.

Love, typically the least patient among the Vizards when it came to Hiyori's antics, let out a sigh. He couldn't resist his curiosity any longer and finally spoke up, "Okay, I'll bite. What has you so exasperated?"

Hiyori's face was flushed from her earlier rant, and she wiped away the sweat that had formed on her forehead. With ease, she raised her phone to show Love the text message she had received from Shinji at 6 am that same day. It was evident that the message had triggered her fiery reaction.

Baldy Idiot HumanPhone (6:17 a.m.): Hey baby! Momo wants to go visit the world of the Living on her day off.

Baldy Idiot HumanPhone (6:17 a.m.): AKA today

Baldy Idiot HumanPhone (6:17 a.m.): aaaaaand I am on Captain’s meetings all day.

Baldy Idiot HumanPhone (6:18 a.m.): Forgot to ask you about it 😝 Can you help her out?

Baldy Idiot HumanPhone (6:18 a.m.): She hasn’t been there at all except on the usual Academy Trip.

Baldy Idiot HumanPhone (6:18 a.m.): I already told her you’ll do it. Pick her up at Kisuke’s at 9 am

Baldy Idiot HumanPhone (6:19 a.m.): Thank you for doing this, Hiyori. I’ll repay it later 🍬😉 💕 👉👌

"Hiyori, you really shouldn't be showing that text to people," Love remarked casually, taking a sip of his morning tea. "It's absolutely filthy."

Hiyori's expression shifted to one of genuine innocence as she responded with a puzzled "Ah?" Her mischievous nature was undeniable, but when it came to flirting and such innuendos, she was completely oblivious.

"On times like this, I really want to kill Shinji," Love mused with a wry smile, pointing to the last two emojis in the text and demonstrating the suggestive motion they implied.

Hiyori, completely oblivious to the innuendo, found herself at a loss for words. Her face turned a deep shade of crimson, her innocence starkly contrasting with the text's hidden meaning.

Furious and embarrassed, Hiyori snatched her phone and angrily dialed Shinji's number. She was determined to give him a piece of her mind like never before. However, her calls went unanswered. After a few attempts, she threw her phone on the table in frustration.

"Damn it! He's not picking up!" Hiyori exclaimed, seething with anger.

Love, still sipping his tea and watching the spectacle unfold, finally chimed in. "Remember, Hiyori, today is a Captain's meeting day. They're locked up in there all day, which means no phones until they're out, around dinner time."

Hiyori's frustration reached its peak, and she decided to vent her rage in another way. With trembling hands, she sent Shinji an audio message, a fiery tirade filled with colorful language that would surely make him regret sending that text message in the first place.

"So, what are you going to do?" Love asked her inquisitively.

Hiyori's mouth transformed from its usual angry, tight line to a more neutral expression. With a resigned sigh, she grabbed the phone she had just discarded and checked the time. It read 8:49 am. Knowing that the by-the-book, cutesy Lieutenant Shinji had inherited from Aizen, she realized she needed to be at Kisuke's place by 9:00 am sharp. That left her with less than 10 minutes to find someone idiotic enough to fill in for her.

"Hinamori is a very cute girl, would you be interested in showing her around?" Hiyori said to Love.

"Oh no, don't even think about throwing this one on me, Shinji asked you," Love replied, grabbing the latest Shonen Jump and moving to his room. "Besides, I'm not interested in him paying me back."

Hiyori's scowl could be heard, her frustration evident in the silence that followed.

With limited options available, Hiyori reluctantly trudged her way to Kisuke's place, her feet moving like lead. She had absolutely no interest in the prospect of playing tour guide to what she imagined was the ditzy, overly cheerful brunette. From their brief conversation, the girl seemed to be the type who talked like she'd devoured every sweet lie on the planet and genuinely believed in the existence of rainbows, fairies, and unicorns. The mere thought of spending her day catering to such an individual left Hiyori feeling like she was in for a tiresome and patient-testing ordeal.

Yet, Hiyori was never one to surrender without a fight. She had a plan B.

Hinamori Momo was a Shinigami, and in her mind, it was only fair that one Shinigami should look out for another while in the human world. She couldn't help but smile wickedly, knowing that she had an ace up her sleeve—the official Soul Society substitute Shinigami, or as she liked to call it, her trump card.

As Hiyori reluctantly arrived at Kisuke's place, she was greeted by a rather curious sight. Urahara Kisuke, the master of intrigue and schemes, seemed to be in his element, attempting to sell a bewildered Hinamori Momo every piece of what appeared to be utterly useless junk. He insisted that these items were essential for her day in Karakura – a notion that made Hiyori roll her eyes in exasperation.

Momo, with her sweet and somewhat clueless disposition, looked at Kisuke with wide, trusting eyes, her faith in his every word seemingly unshakable. She had the demeanor of someone who believed in the inherent goodness of the world, a person who might genuinely think that buying a traffic cone would enhance her day.

As Hiyori's scowl deepened, she couldn't hold back her frustration any longer. In a swift and precise motion, she let Kisuke have it, delivering a powerful kick directly to her former Captain that sent him tumbling backward. The room fell silent as Kisuke sprawled on the floor, looking somewhat stunned by the unexpected assault.

"Stealing from the Shinigami, are we?" Hiyori remarked with a mixture of anger and success in her voice, her arms folded firmly across her chest. She didn't care if this idiotic girl expended her entire year's salary on Kisuke's crap, but what really got under her skin was the blonde mischievous eyes and smug tone he had employed. It was a combination that always rubbed Hiyori the wrong way.

Additionally, she couldn't shake the feeling that no matter what transpired, Shinji would somehow find a way to blame her for Kisuke's moronic actions. It was as if he had a talent for landing her in hot water, and she was determined not to let that happen this time.

"Oh, Hiyori-san," Kisuke replied with his characteristic nonchalance, his sly grin undiminished even as he picked himself up from the floor. "I'm just a penniless shopkeeper trying to help a pretty lady in need have a successful day in the realm of the living."

Kisuke's smooth talking did little to quell Hiyori's irritation. With a brusque and no-nonsense demeanor, she seized his trademark fan and delivered a swift swat in his direction. The fan connected with a sharp snap, emphasizing her point. "All I see is a lazy bum trying to take advantage of an idiot Shinigami who's not supposed to be here."

With her temper flaring and determination set, Hiyori firmly grasped Momo's wrist and began to drag her away from Urahara's shop. The scowl on her face was evidence of her frustration and annoyance at the situation. As a Vizard, Hiyori had little patience for what she viewed as the typical antics of Shinigami, but she couldn't simply stand by and let Momo fall victim to Kisuke's questionable schemes.

After a few blocks of determined marching, Momo finally called out to her, "Hiyori-san wait, Hiyori-san!"

Hiyori came to a sudden halt, her scowl deepening as she turned to face Momo. Her expression conveyed her irritation.

Momo gathered her things and dusted herself off, offering a warm smile to Hiyori. She then bowed her head respectfully, her gratitude evident in her soft-spoken words. "I-I wanted to thank you for your help today. I know Hirako Taichou didn't give you more than a couple of days' advance notice, so I appreciate you taking the time to show me around Karakura. Renji, Rangiku-san, and Shiro-chan have said so many wonderful things about the place that I can hardly wait to see it for myself."

The brunette's face lit up as her cutesy yellow dress fluttered in the morning breeze, her enthusiasm for the day ahead undeniable.

"Wait," the blonde girl arched an eyebrow in suspicion. "What do you mean, your baldy captain gave me a couple of days' notice?"

The expression on the current Lieutenant's face took on a hint of apologetic understanding as she thought about her Captain's actions. "Well," she began, "I actually requested the time off around two months ago, and Hirako Taichou volunteered to show me around. But, about two weeks ago, Kyoraku SouTaichou moved the all-day Captain meeting to today, and considering all the paperwork required to change the date, Hirako Taichou thought it would be easier to ask for your help."

The moment hung heavy with tension as Hiyori's frustration continued to simmer beneath the surface. She glared at Momo, her eyebrows furrowing deeply, her voice laced with incredulity. "You're telling me," she began, her anger growing with each passing second, "Hage Shinji knew about this for two whole weeks?"

Momo, seemingly aware of the storm brewing within Hiyori, hesitated for a moment, her eyes darting around nervously. Finally, she replied, her voice wavering slightly, "Well... yes."

Growing increasingly exasperated, Hiyori grabbed her phone once again and began to dial Shinji's number. However, to her frustration, she obtained the same result as she had this morning - no answer. She scowled at her phone in annoyance.

Momo, noticing Hiyori's agitation, cast her a sympathetic glance and offered an explanation. " I am sure you know this Hiyori-san, but today is one of those Captain's meeting days. They'll be in meetings all day, so phones won't be available until they're done."

Hiyori's frustration was intensified by this reminder of the captain’s meeting, which meant she couldn't reach Shinji until much later in the day. She let out an annoyed huff, feeling somewhat trapped by the circumstances. The blonde turned around to see the perplexed expression on the Fukutaichou’s face. "Your captain is a total idiot!" Hiyori fumed, her frustration evident in her tone. "The dumbass asked me today!"

Hiyori was about to show Momo the text message as evidence, but then she remembered Love's earlier explanation about the emojis Shinji had sent. Instead, she snapped closed her denreishinki, "He sent me a message at 6:00 am. TODAY."

Momo's mortification was palpable. She gasped, horrified by the situation. "Oh no, Hiyori-san. I am so sorry. Do you already have plans? I'm going to give him a talking to when I get back. He can't do that."

"That's Shinji, alright," Hiyori replied with a resigned sigh. "You better get to know him as he is."

The small brunette's apologetic expression deepened, and she continued to bow her head repeatedly in apology. "I'm so sorry," she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't mean to interfere with your day. It's just that my friends have said so much about the world of the living and Hirako Taichou too that I could hardly wait to come here. But, Hiyori-san, you do not need to be here. I'll go back to Soul Society and come back another day."

Hiyori's golden eyes narrowed further at the Shinigami's continuous apologies. Annoyance evident in her voice, she pushed the brown-haired girl's head lower with a bit of force, making it almost touch the ground. "Stop bowing, Apology Queen," she insisted firmly. "It's fine. As long as Ikumi-san does not need me, I have time to waste on you."

Hirako Taichou had mentioned that Hiyori had been working with a human, and Momo suspected it was Ikumi-san, at Kurosaki Ichigo's old workplace, Unagiya Shop. This business was known for taking on various peculiar tasks for its customers, but the specifics of these "odd tasks" remained a mystery to Momo. She decided not to pry further, especially given Hiyori's current mood.

"Come on," Hiyori pretty much demanded, her impatience evident in her tone. "We're wasting daylight."

Momo nodded and followed Hiyori.

As they walked through the busy Karakura streets, Hinamori Momo couldn't help but marvel at everything around her. The first thing that caught her eye was a simple pothole in the road, which she found utterly fascinating. She then spotted a small dog trotting down the sidewalk, its tail wagging happily, and Momo couldn't contain her delight. Even the sight of busy construction work nearby had her captivated.

Hiyori, on the other hand, was growing increasingly annoyed with Momo's childlike wonder at the mundane sights of normal everyday humans. She had expected this trip to be a bit more efficient and focused, but Momo's fascination with every little detail was slowing them down.

"Come on, Baldy’s little sidekick," Hiyori grumbled, urging the girl to keep up. "We've got places to be, and you're gawking at everything. This isn't a sightseeing tour."

Momo nodded; her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she quickened her pace to match Hiyori's. She couldn't help but feel a bit ashamed for getting distracted by the simplest of things, but her excitement for exploring the world of the living was hard to contain.

As she followed Hiyori, the brunette’s curiosity got the better of her and she couldn't resist asking a question that had been on her mind since she became aware of the existence of the young blonde. "Hiyori-san," she began hesitantly, "Can I ask you why you call Hirako Taichou, Baldy?" She couldn't help but giggle slightly before adding, "I've always wanted to ask you."

Hiyori glanced back at the Shinigami, her expression briefly shifting to one of amusement. "Baldy? Oh, that's just my way of messing with him," she clarified with a mischievous grin, speaking as if it were the most natural thing in the world. "It's not about his hair; it's about his face. He used to have this very long, flowing hair that annoyed the living crap out of me. So, I thought it'd be fun to tease him about it. Plus, it gets on his nerves, and that's always a bonus."

Momo couldn't help but chuckle at Hiyori's candid explanation. It seemed there was always a method to her teasing madness, even if it revolved around Shinji's hair at one point.

"Oh, we're here," Hiyori announced abruptly, coming to a halt in front of a blue house situated next to what appeared to be a clinic. Momo, the current lieutenant of the 5th Division, couldn't help but scrunch her eyebrows together in confusion. The unexpected location left her puzzled, wondering what business Hiyori had in this particular place.

"This is the famous and renowned Kurosaki Clinic," Hiyori presented proudly, as if it were a major attraction in town. "This is actually where all Shinigami come when they are in the world of the living. Go, ask your friends; I'm sure they spend a bunch of time here."

Momo's confusion was palpable as she tried to make sense of Hiyori's choice of location.

"On a hospital?" Momo asked, her perplexity evident.

"Nope, this isn't just any clinic. Kurosaki Ichigo lives here. No one would be better than Ichigo to show you around," Hiyori explained with conviction. "He's been in the world of the living as a Shinigami, unlike me, who tried to keep my business as far away from you shitty beings as possible."

Momo was even more confused, trying to connect the dots. "Wait, Hiyori-san. But Hi-Hirako Taicho is a Shinigami. Aren't you talking to him all the time? How is that—"

Hiyori's aggressive side flared up, cutting Momo off. "Ah? An' why's it matter t' you how much I chat with that baldy idiot? Don't go doubting my words. If I say I don't mix with Shinigami, I ain't mixin' with Shinigami! Now, let's check if that idiot's home so he can give ya the tour ya actually want."

Momo considered this for a moment, realizing the practicality of Hiyori's choice. Ichigo's experience in navigating both worlds made him a suitable guide for someone like her.

"I guess you're right," Momo eventually agreed, trying to be open-minded and seeing the logic in Hiyori's decision. However, she couldn't help but recall the casual warning Hirako Taichou had given her about Hiyori: " Listen, Momo, I really like you, and you're an excellent Vice Captain. I don't want to lose you, so let me give you some insight into dealing with Hiyori. If something seems off, don't argue with her. Instead, ask her a bunch of questions. Trust me, if there's no good reason behind her actions, her weird reasoning will trip her up." This advice echoed in her thoughts as she followed Hiyori's lead.

With her plan in full swing, Hiyori confidently approached the door of Kurosaki Clinic, her knuckles rapping loudly against the wood. A moment of silence followed, leaving the anticipation hanging in the air. Undeterred by the initial lack of response, she leaned on the doorbell, repeatedly pressing it with increasing impatience. The sound of the buzzer echoed through the entrance, a persistent plea for attention. Despite her persistent efforts, the clinic remained unresponsive, shrouded in silence.

A few moments went by, and to their surprise, the friendly face of Yuzu Kurosaki popped up at a window in the house next to the clinic. She greeted them with a warm smile and casually asked, "Good morning, Hiyori-chan, are you looking for my brother?"

"Of course, I was, where's that idiot at?" Hiyori replied with a mix of irritation and impatience. Yuzu's laughter filled the air, a hearty sound that reminded Hiyori of another chuckling fool who was standing right beside her. Something in the youngest Kurosaki's expression gave Hiyori the inkling that her master plan to connect this Lieutenant with the substitute Shinigami might not go as smoothly as she had hoped.

Yuzu finally answered, her voice carrying a touch of sympathy, "He's actually out of town. He and some of his high school friends decided to take a trip to Tokyo."

Hiyori couldn't contain her frustration and let out a muttered curse, her brows furrowing in annoyance.

"Did boobies go with him?" Hiyori inquired bluntly, considering that maybe her backup plan was disappearing like smoke.

"Boobies?" Both Yuzu and Momo asked in unison, exchanging puzzled glances.

"Orihime," Hiyori clarified, her impatience showing.

“Ohhh, yeah, she did.” The sweet young girl replied.

That’s it, there was no plan C. Hiyori racked her brain, considering other potential options, but none seemed feasible. She couldn't think of anyone else in Karakura who could look after this troublesome Shinigami without risking her safety and subsequently facing Shinji's wrath. She couldn't believe her elaborate scheme to pin this Lieutenant to Ichigo was falling apart because of a simple vacation. Orihime's presence in Tokyo seemed to have sealed her fate and Hiyori found herself trapped.

With an exasperated huff, Hiyori unfolded her arms and glanced at Momo, who appeared to be watching her with a mix of curiosity and bemusement. She then turned her attention back to Yuzu.

"Well, thanks for the info, Yuzu. I guess we'll just have to come back another time," Hiyori grumbled, her annoyance still palpable.

.

Hiyori's frustration lingered as she contemplated the day ahead. Now, she was left with no choice but to be Momo's guide for the day, showing her around the world of the living, and that wasn't a prospect she relished. As much as Hiyori enjoyed teasing the innocent Lieutenant and getting under her skin, spending an entire day playing tour guide was far from her idea of a good time. She had her own business to attend to, and babysitting a Shinigami who was clueless about the human world wasn't on her agenda.

With a resigned sigh, Hiyori turned to the visiting girl. "Well, let's get this over with. If we're going to do this, we might as well start now." She couldn't hide the annoyance in her voice, and she couldn't help but think about the payback she would exact when she saw Hirako Shinji next. Surely, she deserved more than just what he had promised he had for doing this for him.

In her mind, Hiyori started to list all the things she'd demand from Shinji as compensation. A lavish, expensive meal was just the beginning. She'd make sure to milk this situation for all it was worth, extracting promises of favors, gifts, and perhaps even some additional perks. After all, if she was going to be stuck with Momo for the day, she was determined to make the most of it and ensure that Shinji paid for it dearly. A devious grin spread across Hiyori's face as she recalled that Shinji had entrusted her with his credit card for emergencies. Well, in her opinion, this situation officially qualified as an emergency, and she had no qualms about putting that card to good use. It seemed that the day was going to be thoroughly endorsed by Shinji, whether he liked it or not.

"Got anything in that head of yours?" Hiyori grumbled with a heavy dose of rudeness, her irritated gaze fixed firmly on Momo. "You're the one who needs to figure out what to do today." Her impatience dripped from her words as she made it clear she expected Momo to take the lead in planning their day in the world of the living.

Hinamori Momo, ever the prepared one, nervously reached into her pocket and pulled out a very long list. She eagerly provided it to Hiyori, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. The Vizard reluctantly took the list and began to read it out loud, her displeasure evident in her tone. "Let's see... 'Visit the local museum'? Boring. 'Explore the botanical gardens'? No thanks. 'Try out the trendy new café downtown'? Pass. 'Take a leisurely stroll in the park'? Absolutely not."

As she continued to read through the list, Hiyori dismissed one suggestion after another, clearly unimpressed with the typical touristy activities that Momo had in mind. It seemed that Hiyori had a very different idea of what would make their day in the world of the living interesting.

Finally, after Hiyori had shot down most of the activities on the list, she crumpled it up and forcefully stuffed it back into Momo's pocket.

"You know what, I've got a better idea," Hiyori declared, her annoyance giving way to a mischievous grin.

Without further explanation, Hiyori led Momo through the bustling streets of Karakura, navigating the town with ease. They arrived at a charming little ice cream shop that seemed to catch Hiyori's attention. She pushed open the door and gestured for Momo to follow.

"Shinigamis don't have ice cream in Soul Society," Hiyori explained as they entered the shop. "So, you're going to get the full world of the living experience. Pick any flavor you want, and I'll treat you to some ice cream, as much as you want. Consider it a crash course in enjoying life while you're here."

Momo looked around the ice cream shop with curiosity. "Is this like Kakigōri?" she asked, drawing a comparison to a treat she was familiar with from Soul Society.

"Sorta, but better," Hiyori replied with a smirk, clearly confident that Momo was in for a delightful surprise. She encouraged Momo to make her selection from the array of colorful and tempting ice cream flavors displayed behind the glass counter, eager to introduce her to this world of sweet indulgence in the living realm.

Dark brown eyes widened as Momo surveyed the array of ice cream flavors, each one looking more tempting than the last. She was both excited and a little overwhelmed by the choices.

Hiyori, her tone still a bit rude and blunt but with a hint of kindness, leaned closer to Momo and pointed at a particularly vibrant flavor. "Try the rainbow sherbet," she suggested. "It's got a mix of fruity flavors, and it's a real treat. And none of that weird shaved ice stuff from Soul Society. This is the real deal."

Momo nodded and decided to take Hiyori's recommendation. She ordered a scoop of rainbow sherbet in a waffle cone, and the Vizard followed suit with her own choice of a rich chocolate flavor.

As they stepped outside the ice cream shop, Momo took her first bite and her eyes lit up with delight. "This is amazing!" she exclaimed.

Hiyori, while not one for overt displays of affection, couldn't help but crack a small, satisfied smile. "Told you so," she said, her bluntness softened by the satisfaction of introducing Momo to a new and enjoyable experience in the world of the living.

With their ice cream in hand, Hiyori led Momo through the lively streets of Karakura Town. They walked along the bustling sidewalk, occasionally stopping to admire some of the local shops and the colorful street art that adorned the buildings. The Vice captain was thoroughly enjoying herself. She savored each bite of her ice cream and took in the sights and sounds of the world of the living with wonder. It was a stark contrast to the more regimented and serious atmosphere of the Soul Society, and she relished the opportunity to let loose and experience something new.

As they continued their exploration of Karakura Town, Momo decided it would be a good opportunity to get to know the former Lieutenant who had spent so much time with her captain. She began to chat more freely, asking questions about the world of the living and also sharing stories and experiences from Soul Society. Despite her initial reluctance and gruff exterior, Hiyori found herself responding to Momo's inquiries and occasionally interjecting with her own thoughts on various topics.

As they continued to walk through the streets, the topic of their conversation naturally turned to their relationships with other Shinigami. Momo began by sharing a warm smile and affectionate tone as she mentioned, "I have a close friend back in the Soul Society, Captain Hitsugaya Toshiro. I like to call him 'Shiro-chan.' We've known each other for a long time, we grew up together in the Rukongai."

Hiyori raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Shiro-chan, huh? I know who you are talking about. The Chibi captain with the ice zanpakutō."

Momo nodded; her eyes distant as she recalled fond memories. "Yes. Shiro-chan has always been there for me, even when times were tough. We've been through a lot together, and he's a brilliant captain."

Hiyori, despite her stern demeanor, couldn't help but show a hint of interest. "Tell me more about this Shiro-chan. What's he like? He appeared to be a stick in mud for what I could see."

As she began to describe her dear friend, Momo's face lit up. "Well, Shiro-chan may seem serious on the surface, but he's actually quite caring and protective of those he cares about. He has this strong sense of justice and responsibility, and he's incredibly talented with Hyōrinmaru, his zanpakutō. Plus, he's always looking out for his squad members and the well-being of the Soul Society."

Hiyori couldn't help but smirk. "Sounds like a goody-two-shoes, if I ever heard of one" she remarked.

The brunette chuckled. "In some ways, yes. But he also has a mischievous side that he doesn't show to many people. We've had our fair share of adventures and pranks back when we lived together."

Their conversation continued, and as Hiyori listened to Momo's stories about her close friendship with Toshiro, she couldn't deny that there was something strangely endearing about the bond the two Shinigami shared. It reminded her of her own unique connection with Shinji, or at least the platonic part of their friendship from their days in Soul Society. Well, perhaps not exactly like her and Shinji, given that their friendship often involved animosity, punches, and hair-pulling. Still, the fundamental idea of friendship was something Hiyori could appreciate, even if it was expressed differently in their case.

As their conversation flowed, Momo's curiosity got the best of her, and she decided to learn more about Hiyori's perspective on the world of the living. With a friendly and genuinely interested tone, she asked, "Hey, Hiyori-san, what do you like about the world of the living? Is there anything in particular that you enjoy when you're here?"

Hiyori, who had been mostly quiet about her own preferences, paused for a moment, contemplating her question. Finally, she replied in her usual blunt manner, "Well, I guess there's something refreshing about the chaos of it all. Soul Society can be too stuffy and rigid at times. Here, things are unpredictable, and you never know what's going to happen next."

The other girl nodded thoughtfully. "I can see how the unpredictability could be exciting."

"Yeah," the Vizard continued, "and there's some good food here. Ramen, for example, is pretty damn great."

Momo smiled, pleased to see Hiyori opening up a bit. "I've heard that ramen is a popular choice among the living. Maybe we should try some together."

Hiyori scoffed but didn't entirely dismiss the idea. "Maybe. We'll see."

As both women continued to explore Karakura Town, Hiyori took the lead and guided Momo to the bustling commercial district. There, she pointed out various stores and shops that her fellow Vizards had frequented in the past. In her typical brash style, she playfully advised Momo to steer clear of the eccentric ones that Shinji usually favored unless she had a sudden urge to dress like a 1970s dad of three. Surprisingly, her comment earned a sweet laugh from the Lieutenant.

Hiyori gave Momo plenty of time to roam around and shop to her heart's content. As they strolled through the stores, they engaged in conversation about the stark differences between Soul Society and the world of the living. They compared the structured and disciplined life of Shinigami to the more spontaneous and chaotic nature of humans, sharing anecdotes and observations along the way.

Momo shared stories of her friends in the Gotei 13 and how she admired their dedication to maintaining order in the Soul Society. Hiyori, in her usual blunt fashion, admitted that she found the bureaucracy and politics of Soul Society to be a headache and preferred the simplicity of the living world. They discussed the cultural nuances of the world of the living, from the various foods to the fashion trends. Hiyori couldn't help but tease Momo about her initial fascination with everything she saw, and Momo laughed along, embracing the joy of discovery.

As the day went on, Hiyori found herself unexpectedly enjoying the company of the Shinigami who had initially been nothing more than an annoyance and began to understand why Shinji held this doe-eyed girl in such high regard. Momo, in turn, appreciated the chance to experience the world of the living through Hiyori's unique perspective. She began to understand why her captain would prefer to stay on the phone chatting with this fierce girl rather than socializing with other captains, even if he wouldn't readily admit it.

.

.

By the time the sun began to set, Hiyori suggested stopping at a ramen shop for dinner, claiming it was the best she had ever tried. The two women entered the shop and took a seat at a small table, placing their orders and waiting for their food and drinks. Momo smiled at Hiyori, who scowled in response, sensing that the Shinigami had more questions she hadn't voiced yet.

"What?" Hiyori said with directness, her golden eyes fixed on Momo. "If there's something you want to ask, just spit it out, Nervous Nelly."

The current 5^th Squad Vice captain hesitated for a moment, her expression showing her reluctance. "I really don't want to pry," she began, her voice soft.

"Well, probably that's what you're going to do, so get on with it," Hiyori interrupted her, not one for beating around the bush.

The waiter arrived, bringing their orders, and both girls fell silent, offering their thanks. Momo nervously diverted her gaze to the tea in front of her.

"Do you really plan on never going back?" to Soul Society she wanted to add but left the question open-ended.

The blonde couldn't help but scowl at the question, her brow furrowing as she stirred her ramen with irritation. "You're pretty straightforward, aren't you?" she muttered, her tone sharp and biting.

Momo shifted uncomfortably in her seat but maintained her gaze. "I just... I'm curious," she admitted, her voice softening. "You've been living in the world of the living for a while now, and you seem to prefer it here. I was just wondering if you had any plans to return to Soul Society."

Hiyori took a sip of her tea, her expression still guarded. "Soul Society... it's not my favorite place, that's for sure. But I never officially have said I'd never go back. Things may change, who knows?"

The brown-haired girl nodded, sensing the ambiguity in Hiyori's response. "I understand. It's just that... well, you're a Vizard, and you have a unique perspective on both worlds. It would be a shame if Soul Society were to lose someone like you."

Hiyori's scowl softened slightly as she regarded Momo. "You're too damn polite for your own good," she grumbled. "But thanks, I guess."

Immediately, Hiyori's expression shifted to one of mistrust, and her softening features hardened. "Shinji told you to ask me this, right? That sneaky bastard."

At the Vizard’s words, the brunette quickly denied with her hands a blush creeping down her neck. "No, he didn't. He usually worries and wonders how you are, but he didn't ask me to find any information about you."

Hiyori huffed and took a bite of her ramen. "Mmm, don't really buy it. That ass you call a captain usually keeps his cards close to his chest. Even if he didn't ask you to ask, he probably put the thought in your pretty empty head."

Momo chuckled, “You two seem to know each other pretty well, huh?” She observed, trying to piece together the complexities of their relationship.

Reluctantly, Hiyori lowered her guard a fraction, still eyeing Momo warily. "Well, Shinji and I go way back," she began, her tone softening slightly. "We met when I became a seated officer in the 12th, I became the 8th when he was the 4th,” Hiyori let out a short, bitter laugh. "It's hard to believe now, but we used to be a bit... rougher around the edges. I think we met during one of those ridiculous all-team meetings. We both thought the whole thing was a waste of time, so we started sitting together and whispering snarky comments. I soon discovered he was an idiot dipshit, and he thought I was a foul-mouthed brat, and I think the fighting kinda made us grow closer."

Momo couldn't help but smile at the thought of Shinji and Hiyori bantering during those squad meetings. She felt a pang of sympathy for the poor captain who had to mediate their friendly bickering, especially when Hiyori casually mentioned that they used to be rough around the edges. If this was the mellow version of their interactions, she couldn't help but wonder how intense they must have been back then. She chuckled, imagining the scene. "So, you bonded over fighting each other with silly nicknames?"

Hiyori nodded. "Yeah, something like that. I mean, it wasn't only name-calling; I kicked his ass whenever I had the chance."

Momo laughed at the image that conjured. "At least he wasn't a captain back then."

The blonde smirked. "I continued even when he was one. A white long blouse wasn't going to stop me from giving that smug guy what he deserved. And right now, in all honestly, it's not like we don't have our disagreements and all that... but, well, in the end, we do look out for each other, I suppose. "

Hiyori couldn't help but notice the sadness in Momo's eyes as she spoke. "If you enjoy spending time with Hirako Taichou so much, why don't you want to go back to Soul Society? I can't imagine why you wouldn't want to be with someone you're so close to every day. I know both of you are your own people, but if I were you… I would not pass on this."

As more food arrived, a tense silence still hung in the air. Hiyori, growing increasingly frustrated with the atmosphere, could sense the sweet eyes of the girl silently seeking an explanation for her deep-seated resentment toward Soul Society. She let out a sigh and set her chopsticks down, her gaze focused on the bowl of ramen in front of her.

"Ugh! I can't believe I have to explain myself to Shinji's damn shadow," Hiyori grumbled, her frustration evident in her voice.

Taking a deep breath, Hiyori's ochre eyes narrowed with a mixture of anger and determination. "You know, things weren't as fucking rosy as they are now," she began, her voice carrying a hint of bitterness. "We were branded as Hollows, hunted down by Soul Society like we were monsters. If it weren't for Kisuke and his insane science experiments, we'd all be dead by now."

Hiyori's gaze hardened as she recalled the past, a time when they were outcasts and treated as enemies by the very organization they had once served. "And unlike some of the others," she continued, "I'm not just going to forget what they did to us for a pretty white cloak and a bunch of underlings."

Momo listened attentively, her eyes reflecting a mix of empathy and understanding. She may have come from Soul Society, but she had a sense of the complexities and injustices that could occur within its ranks.

"I understand," Momo said softly, her voice filled with sympathy. "It must have been incredibly difficult for all of you. I'm sorry for what you had to go through."

"Whatever, the past is the past," Hiyori replied dismissively, her earlier frustration giving way to a more casual tone. She wasn't one to dwell on history or seek sympathy for their past hardships.

"Hiyori-san," Momo began hesitantly, her expression serious, "can I ask you one more question?"

Hiyori raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "Can I stop you if I say no?" She replied bluntly, her trademark straightforwardness still very much intact.

Momo nodded, her expression a mix of determination and vulnerability, as if she were carefully treading into uncharted territory. She took a deep breath, steadying herself before venturing further into the unknown.

"Well, Hiyori-san," she began, her voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty, "this question is a bit personal, so please feel free to decline if it makes you uncomfortable."

"Go ahead, ask," Hiyori said, her curiosity piqued, but her tone remained hard. Despite it all, she was willing to entertain Momo's question. "It's not like ‘why you don't come back to Soul Society?’ wasn't personal, you dum-dum."

Momo appreciated Hiyori's willingness to engage in this potentially delicate conversation, and she knew that the question she was about to ask delved into a sensitive area. But she also sensed that this might be the right moment to explore the depths of Hiyori's feelings and motivations.

"A-are you in love with Hirako Taichou?" Momo finally said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. She had been wrestling with this question for a while, wondering if it was too personal to ask, but her curiosity had gotten the better of her. Hiyori, who had taken a casual sip of her tea, suddenly found herself in a precarious situation. The hot liquid threatened to go down the wrong way as her eyes widened in surprise. For a moment, she seemed caught off guard, and the tension in the air grew palpable.

After a few seconds that felt like an eternity, Hiyori managed to regain her composure. She set the teacup down and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. Her yellow eyes bore into Momo's, and she let out a huff of exasperation. "What kind of question is that you idiot?" she retorted, her voice carrying a mix of annoyance and embarrassment.

Momo's explanation tumbled out in a rush, her words almost tripping over themselves in her haste to clarify her question. Her hands moved animatedly as she tried to convey her reasoning, but Hiyori's intense gaze made her increasingly nervous. She raised her hands in a defensive gesture, as if warding off any potential blows from the fiery Vizard.

"I-it's just that he seems to be, you know, in love with you," Momo stammered, her eyes wide with apprehension. "I mean, he hasn't said anything to me. I just think he is. Very much in love with you, a-and I feel it's my duty as his Lieutenant to know if you maybe, you know, are." She continued to babble, still afraid of facing one of Sarugaki Hiyori's legendary punches.

Her explanation took a somewhat unexpected turn when she added, "I also feel that if I was you, and I didn't know, and no one told me, I would be mad." Momo's eyes darted nervously, waiting for Hiyori's reaction. She felt a strange mixture of relief for getting the question off her chest and anxiety about how Hiyori would respond to her boldness.

Hiyori's expression remained fixed, her golden eyes narrowing at Momo with incredulity. In her mind, she couldn't help but think, the fucking balls on this chick. However, beneath her initial surprise, a glimmer of something else flickered in her eyes – a hint of amusement mixed with disbelief.

For a moment, Hiyori didn't say anything, and the silence between them hung in the air like a heavy cloud. Finally, she let out a sharp, disbelieving laugh that seemed to release some of the tension in the room.

"You've got some nerve, asking something like that," Hiyori retorted with a smirk, her tone laced with both amusement and a touch of irritation. She leaned back, bringing her feet up to her chair to sit in a butterfly stance, clearly contemplating her response. "I should tell you to mind your own fucking business, but you know what? Only because you were so direct, I, being the benevolent person I am, I'll indulge you." She paused, tapping her fingers on the tabletop as she gathered her thoughts.

Her expression shifted to something more contemplative, and she let out a sigh, as if revealing this part of herself made her uneasy. "I don't know if it's 'love' or whatever," she lied, fully aware of the depth of her feelings for Shinji. She had already heard those three words from him, but she wasn't ready to admit them to herself, let alone share them with Shinji's underling. "But he and I... well, I guess we're together. We have been for a couple of years now. What happened in the battle with Aizen kinda made us aware of things.” Hiyori's eyes briefly flickered with a mix of emotions, though she didn't specify exactly what those things were. She guarded her true feelings and let the conversation linger there, uncertain of how much more she wanted to reveal.

Momo looked into Hiyori's guarded eyes, realizing that this was as much information as Sarugaki Hiyori was willing to share with her on her relationship.

The smaller girl took a sip of her tea, her unwavering gaze fixed on Momo, and her tone turned as cold as the ice in her drink. "Lieutenant, your intent to look out for your captain is duly noted," Hiyori began, her words slicing through the air like a freezing wind. "However, it seems you have a serious lack of boundaries between your work and your life. Let me make something abundantly clear: I don't meddle in other people's business, especially when it concerns their personal relationships, and you shouldn’t meddle either. If I had asked such a question to Yoruichi about Kisuke, when he was my captain, I'd probably find myself either dead or trussed up in one of Squad 2's bizarre dungeons. Do you comprehend the gravity of the intrusion you've committed here?" She paused, her eyes narrowing further as her words hung heavily in the air. "Now, answer me this: How would you react if I were to ask you the same question about your captain?"

Your captain.

Momo's eyes widened in realization as Hiyori's words hit her like a bolt of lightning. The Vizard was clearly not inquiring about Shinji, and the implication of her question left Momo feeling exposed and vulnerable.

"You can," Momo replied, her brown eyes defiantly locking onto Hiyori's honey-colored ones. "You can ask me the same question; I will answer you honestly."

The blonde blinked, taken aback by Momo's response. She hadn't expected such a direct and open reply, and she was surprised that the Shinigami hadn't hesitated to broach the topic of her relationship with Aizen. It had been a few years, but emotional wounds often lasted longer than physical ones.

Living with Lisa, the queen of gossip, for so many years meant that Hiyori couldn't avoid hearing rumors and speculations. One night, a few months after all the captain spots had been filled, Shinji came to visit Hiyori at the warehouse as he usually did. She remembered that he and Lisa had a very loud argument regarding Momo and Aizen. Lisa was convinced that Aizen had taken Momo's virginity, and Shinji was uncharacteristically furious, insisting that such topics weren't for Lisa to discuss so casually. He emphasized that the lives of others were not entertainment and that discussions like this had serious consequences. Hiyori could still recall Lisa's eye-rolling and insults toward him, as well as Shinji's firm grip on Hiyori's wrist as he led her out of the room, leaving the argument unfinished.

Hiyori chose not to delve into the matter, never asking Lisa or Shinji about it. In her opinion, it wasn't their business. Whatever Momo did before everything went to shit was probably part of some machination designed by Sosuke to ensure that everyone but him had the lower advantage. Besides, as someone who wouldn't publicly disclose her own personal sexual experiences to all of Soul Society, she didn't appreciate this type of gossip either.

"Well, alright then," she said, her tone softening slightly. "I won't pry, though. Who you love or who you're gettin' it on with is none of my damn business, if you ask me. You're a weird one, you know," she remarked, her tone less confrontational than usual. She observed Momo intently, her sharp honey-colored eyes meeting the softer gaze of the lieutenant.

Momo's expression mellowed, and she offered a gentle smile. "I would like to say the same, Hiyori-san."

They continued to enjoy their meal, the sounds of their chopsticks clinking against the bowls and the faint chatter of other patrons in the background creating a comfortable ambiance. Hiyori's gaze once again fixed on Momo, her eyes gleaming mischievously.

"You've asked me a bunch of questions today," Hiyori continued with a sly grin, "but you haven't actually asked about the good stuff." She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, her left fang protruding from her small mouth. "You haven't asked about dirt on Shinji!"

Momo's laughter bubbled forth, breaking any remaining tension that lingered between the two women.

The former Vice captain started relating with all details with her stories, regaling Momo with tales of Hirako Shinji's legendary incompetence in the kitchen. She recounted incidents where he had set fire to their makeshift stove, mistaking sugar for salt, and turning simple meals into unrecognizable disasters. She described a particularly memorable incident when he attempted to cook curry, but ended up creating a concoction that was more akin to a spicy, bubbling volcano. The result was a kitchen covered in curry splatters, and Shinji wearing a sauce-spattered apron with a bewildered expression. Momo couldn't help but laugh at the comical mishaps, and it seemed that even Hiyori found some amusement in those memories, despite her usual annoyance with her fellow Vizard.

As they neared the end of their meal, the setting sun cast a warm, golden glow through the windows, bathing the small restaurant in a soft, inviting light. Hiyori's animated storytelling and Momo's genuine laughter filled the space, making it feel like they were in their own little world, far removed from the duties and responsibilities of the Gotei 13. The empty bowls and satisfied sighs that followed signaled the conclusion of their meal, and Hiyori, surprisingly content with the day's events, signaled for the check knowing full well she was going to pay with Shinji's credit card.

As they stepped out of the restaurant, the warm afternoon sun embraced them, and Hiyori's suggestion of ice cream (again) as dessert, felt like a refreshing idea. They walked a short distance to a quaint little ice cream parlor tucked away in a corner of the bustling town. The shop had a nostalgic charm to it, with pastel-colored walls adorned with vintage posters, and a welcoming scent of freshly baked waffle cones wafted through the air.

Inside, the display case was filled with an array of delectable options. Momo's eyes widened as they had done this morning, her mouth watering at the sight of creamy scoops in various flavors, from classic vanilla to exotic mango-passionfruit swirls. She finally settled on a rich chocolate mousse ice cream, topped with a generous drizzle of warm fudge sauce and a sprinkle of crushed almonds. The combination promised a delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors.

Hiyori, on the other hand, seemed to prefer simplicity. She chose a vibrant red ice pop, which contrasted with Momo's decadent selection. The popsicle appeared to be a childhood favorite, and Hiyori's choice hinted at a desire for a quick, cool treat without the fuss.

With their frozen delights in hand, they continued their journey, heading to a nearby park. The park was a lush oasis amidst the urban landscape, featuring a variety of tall trees providing shade, neatly trimmed lawns, and colorful flowers in full bloom. Children laughed and played on the swings, while couples relaxed on park benches, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Momo found a comfortable spot under a spreading oak tree, its branches forming a natural canopy overhead. She settled onto a bench, carefully balancing her chocolate mousse ice cream. Hiyori, with her ice pop, joined her, taking a seat next to the lieutenant. They watched as a light breeze rustled the leaves, casting dappled sunlight on the ground.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow, Hiyori took a final bite of her ice pop, her tongue and lips now sporting a reddish tint from the colorful treat. She gazed at the shifting hues of the sky with a contemplative expression, her legs swinging idly without touching the floor.

With a casual tone, she asked, "Have you ever seen his Bankai?"

Momo, savoring her last bite of ice cream, shook her shoulder-length hair as she responded to Hiyori's question. "No, Taichou said it's too dangerous."

Hiyori chuckled, giving a knowing nod. "Do you always listen to what he tells you? Never mind, I forgot who I was talking to." Her wry smile hinted at a shared understanding. "The old geezer Soutaichou banned it after he passed the captain's exam." She then couldn't resist the urge to imitate a stern, peculiar voice. "Too dangerous for the Seireitei, he said."

A comfortable silence settled between the two girls as they enjoyed the serene moment in the fading sunset. Momo, her curiosity piqued, turned her gaze toward Hiyori.

"Have you?" she asked, her expression inquisitive. "Have you seen it?"

The smaller girl's cheeks barely tinged with a subtle blush, but her companion could still detect the freckles on her face taking on a mild pink hue. "Yeah, once," she admitted.

Momo leaned in, her interest clearly evident. "Well, of course, you guys are so close, he must have—"

Hiyori interrupted with a chuckle, her eyes gleaming with amusement as she recalled the memory. "I sneaked into his Captain's exam. I just wanted to understand what all the damn secrecy was about." She shook her head at her own audacity. "I got into all sorts of trouble after. I've never seen Captain Hikifune as angry as that day. Not only did I, a 5th seat, sneak into a Captain's exam, but I also got caught up in it and even tried to attack the Soutaichou. How I didn't end up a scorched mess or in the maggots' nest is a miracle."

Momo couldn't help but giggle at the audacious escapade and Hiyori's daring antics. She found the story both amusing and endearing. "I have to say I am a little jealous," she admitted, her fingers fidgeting with a hint of insecurity.

Hiyori looked at Momo, a bit surprised by her confession. "Huh?" she asked, curious about what had sparked Momo's jealousy.

Momo hesitated for a moment, choosing her words carefully. "You don't see him when you're not around. He is able to bring up any topic within three degrees of separation to you."

Hiyori's freckles deepened in color as her blush intensified, her expression a mix of embarrassment and surprise.

Momo continued, her tone gentle and understanding. "The other day, we were discussing paperwork, and he remembered how you used to handle it. Or we were talking about how rowdy the new members could get, and he said you put them in their place so quickly. He truly adores you, Hiyori-san. And don't get me wrong, I'm not jealous of you being with him. I like him, but I don't... like-like him. It's just that your bond is so deep and beautiful, even if you call each other horrible names and have your unique way of fighting. It's like you share a bond that goes beyond."

Hiyori shifted uncomfortably in her spot; her cheeks now distinctly flushed. She ran a hand through her short, spiky hair, a habit she had when feeling flustered. "Oi, quit spewing that mushy crap, will ya? Shinji and I are like... like... a couple of idiots or something, not that sappy crap you're talking about," she grumbled, clearly embarrassed by Momo's heartfelt observations. Despite her protest, there was a warmth in her honey-colored eyes that hinted at a deeper connection she didn't often like to admit to others.

Seeing Hiyori's guarded response, Momo laughed. It started as a small snicker but quickly transformed into hearty laughter, accompanied by tears and a slight ache in her stomach. She appreciated Hiyori's efforts to dance around the subject, recognizing that they both had their unspoken feelings and complexities when it came to their relationships.

Momo sighed, her shoulders relaxing as she opened up further. "Yes," she confessed, her voice carrying a touch of nostalgia. "Aizen Taichou was like that for me. He was my captain, and we had a unique connection. It felt like something beyond this plane of existence, something that couldn't be put into words or defined."

Hiyori, putting aside any inclination to mock or tease, listened attentively to Momo's heartfelt confession. She recognized that the topic was not an easy one for Momo to bring up, and even though Hiyori had her own set of opinions about who and what Aizen Sosuke was, she felt a sense of obligation to this girl to lend an ear.

"I get it," Hiyori said quietly, her voice filled with empathy. Her eyes reflected a depth of understanding as she continued, "Sometimes, words just don't do justice to the connection we have with certain people. I can tell you cared deeply for him," she remarked uncharacteristically softly.

As Momo shared her thoughts, her gaze turned distant, lost in the memories of her past. "I did," she replied, her voice filled with a mix of nostalgia and wistfulness. A bittersweet smile touched her lips. "But things changed, and now I'm here."

She continued, her tone tinged with a touch of melancholy. "After so many years and being stabbed twice, I can understand that the person I loved was a figment of my imagination. He was not real, just a ploy to set a larger plan in motion." Momo paused, her eyes glistening with emotion. "However, there are days when I still find myself thinking of him, wanting to show him things I've discovered, things my captain would have liked. I wonder if maybe, while he's locked up in the deepest part of Soul Society, he might think of me too."

Momo's admission hung in the air, heavy with the complexity of her feelings for Aizen. She had loved him deeply, admired him unquestioningly, but had also been betrayed and wounded by him. Despite the pain and fear he had caused her, a part of her heart still held a connection to the man she once thought she knew.

Hiyori listened to Momo's heartfelt confession, her expression softening as she saw the genuine turmoil in the younger Shinigami's eyes. It was clear that Momo's feelings toward Aizen were a complex mix of love, admiration, fear, and insecurity. Hiyori had her own share of complicated emotions when it came to the past, so she understood the weight of carrying such conflicting sentiments.

As the evening sky continued to shift into shades of deep purple, Hiyori, someone who typically wore her heart on her sleeve but was determined not to show it, found herself in an unexpected moment of vulnerability with this idiotic girl., "You know," she began, her voice surprisingly gentle, "we've all got our demons from the past. Shinji and I, we've been through our fair share of messes. But sometimes, those messes shape us into who we are today." She paused, her gaze focused on the horizon. "You've grown stronger, Momo. You've learned from your experiences, even if they were painful. Don't let the past hold you back. Keep moving forward."

"Ditto, Hiyori-san." Momo replied with a warm smile.

Hiyori was about to respond with one of her typical growls or snarky remarks, but then she noticed something unexpected. A single tear rolled down Hinamori Momo's cheek, glistening in the fading light. It was a tear that held the weight of years of memories and emotions.

Involuntarily, Hiyori found herself closing the distance between them and wrapping her arms around Momo in a tentative hug. It was an unusual display of affection for Hiyori, who wasn't known for her sentimental side. But in that moment, she couldn't help but offer comfort to a fellow broken person.

Momo returned the hug, and for a moment, they simply stood there, one Shinigami and one former Shinigami who had started the day as acquaintances and ended it with a deeper understanding of each other.

As they finally pulled away, Hiyori couldn't resist a final grumble. "If you ever say I did that," she motioned to the hug, unable to put the action into words, "I will deny it and come and find you and kick you senseless. After all, I know where you live.

Momo chuckled, her eyes still filled with warmth. "Of course, Hiyori-san. I won't push my luck."

“Also, don’t get used to the idea to come here,” Hiyori motion to her surroundings, “I ain’t a tour guide. It's a one-time thing because Shinji asked.”

Momo smiled softly in response to Hiyori's words. "He is a good man and a good Captain, a bit lazy maybe, but he is good."

The wind ruffled Hiyori's pigtails as she nodded in agreement. "He is." It was a simple affirmation, but it held a depth of meaning that only those who truly knew Hirako Shinji could understand. Despite his quirks and unconventional ways, he was someone who had made a lasting impact on the lives of those he led and cared for.

"Hiyori-san, I appreciate you showing me around today. It's been fun, even if you insult me all the time," Momo said with a playful grin.

Hiyori rolled her eyes, her typical impatience surfacing. "You know," she began, "drop the honorific. You don't have to be so damn formal all the time. Just call me Hiyori." She paused for a moment, then added with a smirk, "And I can call you Marshmallow Momo."

The lieutenant brown eyes blinked a couple of times at the blonde words, she looked slightly confused by the unexpected nickname. "Marshmallow Momo?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow.

Hiyori grinned, enjoying the baffled look on Momo's face. "Yeah, you know, because you're all sweet and soft-spoken. It's a nickname. Deal with it. I can always change it to Baldy if you want."

Both women laughed.

.

.

It was past 8 pm when they arrived at Urahara's shop. As they approached the entrance, they noticed the former captain standing there, as if he had some sixth sense that told him exactly when their guest would arrive.

Urahara greeted them with his usual enigmatic smile. "Welcome back, ladies," he said in his typically cheerful tone. "I trust you had an interesting day?"

Hiyori couldn't resist grumbling, "More like a headache."

Momo, however, offered a polite nod and a smile. "Everything was great! I had an amazing time in the world of the Living."

Urahara's eyes twinkled with hidden knowledge as he looked at the two women. "I'm glad to hear that. Well, if you ever need more information or assistance, don't hesitate to drop by again. Now, shall we head inside? Senkaimon is ready for you Hinamori Fukutaichou."

Momo nodded and turned to Hiyori, "Thank you for today, Hiyori-san... I mean, Hiyori."

Hiyori raised an eyebrow but decided not to comment on it, merely offering a curt nod in response. "Take care, Shinigami. And don't forget what I told you today. It might come in handy someday."

Momo smiled warmly and bowed slightly. "I won't forget."

Kisuke approach Hiyori and leaned in, speaking quietly, "Hiyori-san your request arrived this morning, not sure if you want to send it through Hinamori-san?"

Hiyori glanced at her former Captain, a bit surprised that her request had been fulfilled so quickly. She nodded, deciding that it would be more efficient to have the girl deliver it. "Yeah, that works." She snatched the light rectangular black box from the light blonde and toss it into Momo’s hands without warning. It was a reflection on her well-trained reflexes, the fact that the Vice Captain didn’t drop it on the ground.

Momo caught the black object with a deft motion. She looked at the box, then back at Hiyori with a raised eyebrow, curious about its content.

Hiyori's annoyance flared, and she muttered, "It's something for the Baldy, though he doesn't deserve a damn thing from me after today. But whatever, just make sure he gets it. Tell him not to get used to it either." She huffed, clearly irritated by the prospect of doing something nice for Shinji.

“No, wait.” Hiyori ran inside the shop and came back a couple of minutes later, seized the small box again from Momo, opened it, and stashed a quick note inside. “Okay, now we are good.”

Momo watched Hiyori's actions with interest, wondering what had prompted her to retrieve the box and add a note. Her captain and the Vizard woman spoke every day over the phone, many times a day actually, but she decided her curiosity this time was not worth the storm of irate comments Hiyori would give her. She nodded and replied, "Alright, Hiyori-san. I'll make sure he gets it and delivers the note as well." And with a smile, she turned around, saying goodbye.

The current Lietenant of the 5^th Division made her way into the shop, and Tessai guided her through the hidden training area towards the Senkaimon door, the portal that would take her back to Soul Society.

As the girl’s figure disappeared into the depths of the shop, Hiyori turned around to find Kisuke Urahara's inquisitive gray eyes fixed on her. Irritated by the scrutiny, she couldn't help but snap, "WHAT?!"

The light blonde raised his fan to cover part of his face, but it couldn't hide the mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "Oh, nothing, nothing, Hiyori-san," he replied casually, teasing her with that mysterious smile of his. “You looked like someone who had fun today.”

Hiyori's annoyance flared as Kisuke teased her with that infuriating smile. She huffed and crossed her arms. "Y'ain't got a damn clue how I look when I'm having a good time, I swear. And don't go gettin' all fancy thinkin' too much 'bout it, Baldy. It's a one-shot deal, just 'cause Shinji asked me to watch his little sidekick, and he paid for my food." She glanced away, not willing to admit that she might have enjoyed the day a little more than she wanted to let on.

A chuckled came from Kisuke’s mouth at Hiyori's response. "Well, a day out with friends can be a refreshing change, even if you won't admit it," he said with a knowing twinkle in his eye. "And as for Shinji paying for your food, does he even know he is paying?" He gave Hiyori a playful wink before turning to tend to other matters in his shop.

"Kisuke," Hiyori's serious voice made the shopkeeper stop in his tracks. She looked at him, her expression somber. "Do you think Aizen ever cared for the people around him, like Hinamori or... anyone?"

His playful demeanor shifted, and he regarded Hiyori with a more contemplative look. "Aizen Sosuke was a complex individual," he began. "He had his own way of seeing the world, and it often led him down a path that many of us couldn't understand. He may have cared in his own way, but his ambitions and thirst for power ultimately consumed him. It's hard to say what was genuine and what was part of his grand scheme."

"I figure as much."

Kisuke nodded in understanding. "It's a shame, really," he replied, his tone tinged with a hint of regret. "People like Aizen could have achieved great things if they had chosen a different path. But sometimes, power and ambition blind us to the true potential of our own humanity."

Hiyori sighed, a mixture of frustration and resignation in her expression. "Yeah, well, he made his bed, and now he's lying in it." She turned to leave but then glanced back at Kisuke. "Take care, you lazy bum, don’t spoil those brats of yours too much." With that, she started to go her way towards the warehouse.

"Wait, Hiyori-san, now that I remember you haven’t paid for Shin-"

She cut him mid-sentence. "Just charge it to Hage Shinji's bill."

Kisuke chuckled at Hiyori's response and responded to the night. "You've got it, Hiyori-san. I'll add it to Gobantai Taichou’s tab," he said with a smirk.

Chapter Text

After spending what felt like an eternity with his 10 fellow captains in their grueling meeting, Hirako Shinji was ready to bid them farewell for the day. He longed for a hot shower, a hearty meal, and a comfortable bed. The fact that Kyoraku Shunsui had relocated their meeting to a different room where everyone was entitled to a comfy chair, sparing them from the usual standing torture, was a small mercy. He silently cursed tradition and the hours of his life that it had devoured.

As the meeting concluded, Nanao Ise, Kyoraku's diligent lieutenant, approached Shinji. She brough with her a collection of confiscated belongings, one for each of the captains, an idea she had suggested to ensure everyone's full attention during the discussions. She began returning their items.

Shinji accepted his belongings gratefully, including his two different phones. As he received them, Iba Tetsuzaemon, his fellow captain seated next to him, leaned in closer, his curiosity evident in the eager expression on his face.

Iba, unable to contain his interest any longer, finally asked in a hushed tone, "Hirako, what's the deal with the two Denreishinkis?"

Shinji, now slightly amused by the growing interest in his unusual set-up, decided to indulge his colleague. He grinned mischievously and replied, "Well, one's my regular captain phone, and the other one is for Hiyori. She's a bit peculiar and refuses to use a Shinigami number, so I had to get creative. She's a handful, that one."

Iba raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the unique arrangement. If anything, this confirmed what was already an assumption about the blonde Taichou: Hirako Shinji, for all his charm and allure, was whipped. Before he could inquire further, Shinji's attention was drawn to his second phone, which began buzzing with a flurry of notifications.

"Speaking of which," Shinji mused, looking at his phone, "I seem to have a message from the little troublemaker herself."

As he clicked on the audio message, Shinji's eyes widened in surprise at the scathing words that exploded from the device, creating an atmosphere of laughter and surprise. Hiyori's unmistakable voice erupted from the phone, projecting her scathing words throughout the entirety of the room. Her sharp, unfiltered criticism spared no words as she unleashed her tirade about Shinji's alleged perversions, much to the astonishment and amusement of the gathered captains. He fumbled with the phone, desperately trying to turn it off, but the device seemed determined to continue broadcasting the female Vizard’s colorful commentary to the entire room.

The chamber filled with a mix of laughter and embarrassment as Hiyori's verbal assault continued to play through the phone, turning an otherwise routine meeting into an unforgettable spectacle.

Kyoraku erupted into hearty laughter, unable to stifle his amusement at the unfolding scene. His laughter reverberated through the room. "Ah, Shinji, my dear boy, you always manage to bring some entertainment into our lives!"

Nanao, Kyoraku's typically composed and serious lieutenant, blushed deeply. Her usual poise wavered as she struggled to suppress her own nervous laughter. "SouTaichou, I must insist that we maintain professionalism during our meetings."

"It's alright, Nanao-chan," Kyoraku reassured her with a playful wink. "We were already on our way out, and this is all in good fun. You are too young to remember it, but this has been their way to communicate with each other since they were seated officers, and Hikifune had to rein them in straight."

The flustered lieutenant decided there was not a lot she could do if her own leader was okay with it, but she couldn't help but feel a sense of embarrassment. She discreetly glanced around the room, noting the reactions of her Gotei 13^th fellow members, some of whom wore bemused smiles, while others tried to maintain their professionalism. Nanao couldn't help but wonder what kind of dynamic existed between Captain Hirako and Hiyori-san to lead to such candid exchanges.

Kuchiki Byakuya, the stern captain of the 6th Division, fixed Shinji with a disapproving gaze. His expression remained impassive, but there was a clear air of disapproval surrounding him. "Hirako, this is hardly the appropriate time or place for such behavior," Byakuya remarked, his voice carrying a tone of formality that was typical of him.

Shinji, still grinning but growing more desperate to stop the message from being broadcasted, responded, "I'm trying to stop it, Byakuya. But it seems this darn thing is stuck on speaker." He held up his phone, indicating the source of the ongoing chaos.

Muguruma Kensei's anger was palpable. He shot a fierce glare in Shinji's direction, his irritation undisguised. "Shinji, this is absolutely ridiculous. Can you control Hiyori?"

Well, that was utter nonsense. Shinji shrugged off the tension in the room. "Relax, Kensei. It was just a joke, and Hiyori doesn't really know how to take one. And what part of the last 100 years made you think I can control that tiny monster?" He chuckled; his tone light-hearted despite the situation.

After what felt like an eternity, Shinji managed to bring the chaotic message to a halt – although, whether it was his triumph or the message's own conclusion remained a mystery, leaving everyone in an awkward, bewildered state. Kyoraku, taking the chaos in stride, decided it was high time to dismiss the captains, much to their collective relief. With a wave and a chuckle, he bid everyone farewell, and the captains dispersed, their own thoughts a mixture of bafflement and amusement.

Shinji, now holding both of his phones securely, sauntered away from the commotion. He couldn't help but grin mischievously as he pondered how best to exact his revenge on Hiyori for her little stunt. His mind began concocting elaborate schemes and witty comebacks, all aimed at catching the fiery Vizard off guard. His scheming was written all over his face, a sly smirk playing on his lips as he strolled toward the 5th Division's quarters. It was clear that Shinji had every intention of giving Hiyori a taste of her own medicine, and he relished the opportunity to turn the tables on his spirited lover.

Chapter Text

The morning sun cast a warm glow through the windows of the 5th Division Barracks, gently illuminating Hinamori Momo's office. As she entered, she couldn't help but feel a sense of normalcy returning after the whirlwind adventure in the world of the living.

Her desk was neatly arranged, documents waiting for her attention, and the familiar scent of books and incense filled the air. It was as if the brief escapade with Hiyori had been a dream. However, the small black box in her hand was a tangible reminder that it had indeed happened. She had promised Hiyori that she would deliver it to her Captain, and she intended to keep her word. As she placed the black box on Captain Hirako's desk, Momo couldn't help but wonder what was inside. She had been curious ever since Hiyori had handed it to her but refused to look, out of respect for both Hiyori and her a superior. Whatever it was, it seemed to be important to the Vizard. With a final glance at the box, Momo turned her attention to the day's duties, remembering she would have to grab a couple of reports and travel to the 6th for a Lieutenant’s meeting.

The day passed quickly, and she found herself back in her office around noon. As she entered, she noticed her captain, Hirako Shinji, engrossed in reviewing prospects for new recruits. With a soft clearing of her throat, she announced her presence, causing Shinji to look up from his work.

The blonde captain, known for his laid-back and playful nature, greeted her with a smirk. "Well, well, Momo, back from your adventures in the human world, I see. How was it? Did Hiyori behave? She ain't pickin' up my calls, so this time I'm 100% in the dark."

Momo chuckled at Shinji's concerns. "It was quite enjoyable. Hiyori-san had her moments, but overall, she was great. I mean, she didn't behave like a complete menace, if that's what you're worried about. Didn’t hit me either." Momo beamed proudly.

Shinji raised an eyebrow, his uneven fringe still partially covering his eyes. "Only moments? I'd call that progress. What did you two get up to?"

Momo couldn't help but smile as she recounted her day with Hiyori. "We went shopping, she showed me around town, wanted to reintroduce me to Kurosaki-san, but he was not available, had lunch, went to the park and even visited an ice cream shop. It was very, very nice. I had an amazing time with her. I see why you like her so much."

Shinji rolled his eyes, trying to ignore Momo’s last implication, but mentally backtracked as he processed his vice captain’s words. "Hiyori took ya shoppin'? I mean, I get the food, walkin', and introducin' ya to someone else, but she took ya shoppin'?” His brown eyes showed incredulity, “Ya practically best friends now."

Momo laughed at Shinji's teasing. "Well, I wouldn't go that far," she replied, her smile warm. "But it was a really nice day. She even gave me a gift to bring back here." Momo gestured toward the black box she had left on Shinji's desk earlier.

"Oh, I was wondering about that. The last time I opened a package without knowing what it was, it exploded, so I was going to ask you about it when you got back." Shinji examined the black box thoroughly, poking it with the end of his calligraphy pen.

"It's not alive," she interjected his examination with a smile, "Well, at least I think it's not. I didn't open it, and she didn't say what it was. It comes from Urahara-san's shop. He called it her request."

Shinji carefully opened the velvet container, revealing a beautiful vintage yellow cravat/tie with a silver pin to adjust the size. The moment he laid eyes on it, he couldn't help but be taken aback by its elegance. The rich, golden hue of the fabric was complemented by the intricately designed silver pin, creating a striking contrast that made the accessory all the more captivating. As he held the cravat in his hands, Shinji marveled at its craftsmanship. It was clear that Hiyori had put thought and care into choosing a gift that would resonate with him. He couldn't help but appreciate how well she knew him.

A wave of emotion rushed through Shinji as he studied the gift from Hiyori. He loved her wholeheartedly, and moments like these demonstrated how deep their bond truly was. This was her way of telling Shinji how much she cared, a silent gesture that said more than any words ever could. He closed his eyes, savoring the moment and the memory of her touch.

Returning to the present, Shinji decided it was time to reveal the mysterious gift to Momo. After all, his vice-captain had brought the box, and he knew she was practically bursting with curiosity. With a mischievous grin, he carefully lifted the cravat from its box, allowing Momo to witness its beauty firsthand.

Momo watched with bated breath, her eyes widening with anticipation as Shinji unveiled the cravat. A delighted smile graced her lips as she admired it. "That's really nice," she remarked with a sparkle on her eyes.

As the tall man displayed the gift to her, a small, folded piece of white paper slipped from the box and landed silently on his desk. Shinji's curiosity was instantly piqued. He delicately retrieved the note, unfolding it with a sense of anticipation. As he read its contents, a warm smile gradually spread across his face, tugging at the corners of his lips. Shinji carefully tucked the note into the pocket of his haori, treasuring it as a reminder to himself. It was a silent vow, a promise to continue trying to break through the barriers surrounding the stubborn girl who held his heart in her hands.

Shinji reclined in his chair, the carefully wrapped gift resting on the edge of his desk, a reminder to carry it back to his quarters once the workday concluded. His playful disposition remained intact as he responded, "Well, I'm glad to hear you had a good day yesterday, Momo. You deserve a break from all the paperwork. And thanks for lookin' out for Hiyori. She may not show it, but she appreciates it too."

Momo nodded, a warm smile gracing her features. "It was a pleasure, I hope we can all go back another time."

Then, out of nowhere, the Fukutaichou remembered something she needed to discuss with her superior and leaned in with a mischievous look on her sweet face. "So… Taichou, anything you may need to tell me, you know, about yesterday? Anything interesting happened on your captain meeting, you know, at the end of it?"

Shinji deadpanned. "I'm going to guess you already heard about it?"

"Oh yeah," Momo replied. "Rangiku-san and Renji told me. Apparently, Kuchiki-Taichou is very angry about it. I have to say this time, you kinda had it coming. You shouldn't take Hiyori's time for granted. I know you were trying to prevent her from saying no, but she was mad for a good reason."

Shinji realized he was in hot water if Matsumoto Rangiku knew about this; he could practically guarantee that all of Seireitei, no, all of Soul Society would find out about the content of Hiyori’s voice message. He would need to come up with a good plan to stop that gossipy Lieutenant very fast, or if not, he would forever be known as Ero Shinji.

But for the second time that day, he backtracked to Momo's words, his tone now playfully outrageous. "You think Hiyori did this for a good reason? That sly little monkey did this on purpose, to make me look like an idiot or something worse. There is no reason for Hiyori's madness, Momo. You're givin' her too much credit."

"Honestly, Taichou," Momo replied, "you didn't exactly give her the heads-up to take care of me. It's only fair that Hiyori-san got her revenge. And you like to rile her up so much, don't pretend otherwise," she pointed out. "I'm not exactly sure what you were expecting her response to be."

Shinji sighed in a defeated tone. "I do, but this was way up there when it comes to her ‘responses’… Besides, whose side are you on, Momo?"

Momo chuckled, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "I'm on the side of justice, Taichou. And I think justice has shown me what ice cream is."

Shinji narrowed his eyes playfully. "I see now where your loyalties lie."

Chapter Text

Shinji couldn't help but feel exasperated as he held the black flip Denreishinkis he usually used to talk to the pint-sized Vizard. His voice carried a mixture of annoyance and playfulness as he addressed Hiyori, "Well, tiny monster, you've certainly outdone yourself this time. That was a masterpiece of humiliation, even for you. There are a couple of captains who can't look me in the face anymore, and a few more who would like to rearrange my face. Thank the Soul King that Kyoraku isn't as stern as Yamamoto, or I might have been exiled or worse." Despite his exasperation, his tone remained teasing, and an amused grin adorned his face.

It had taken no less than two weeks, a delivery of food and desserts, a torrential number of calls, and some bullying from Lisa and Love to finally get a hold of Hiyori by phone. Since his responsibilities in Soul Society had been overwhelming lately, Shinji hadn't been able to travel to Karakura and corner her in person like he used to when they both lived in the same place. Much to the displeasure of the two older Vizards, Lisa and Love had been dragged into the situation, as Shinji had pestered both to help get her to pick up the phone. They had ultimately decided it was better to give in to Shinji's relentless requests than continue to resist his demands.

The line remained silent, and Shinji's eye twitched with frustration. "Hiyori, you have no right to be mad. I'm the one who went through something horrible, while you only had to shunpō your little body and show Momo around Karakura. So don't you dare give me the silent treatment. Two weeks have been more than enough; talk to me, you brat."

Rangiku was figuratively eating popcorn, leaning on Momo’s desk with a deadpan expression as she observed the situation unfolding in the 5th Division Captain's Office. "I honestly don't think that tone is going to convince anyone to talk to you, Shinji. You have no idea how to romance girls," she remarked casually.

"Shhh!" Momo shushed her, giving Rangiku a disapproving look. "You said that if you were going to stay, you weren't going to get involved. They have their own way of communicating. Leave them be."

Rangiku chuckled. "I lied, Momo." She hugged the brunette effusively.

Ignoring the banter inside the office, Shinji stepped outside into the Lily of the Valley's gardens. He could hear Hiyori's voice on the other end of the phone, and she seemed to be talking to someone else on her side.

"I already heard him; can I go?" Hiyori's voice sounded impatient.

"No," a man's voice on the other line yelled, "talk to him or you are not getting Kubikiri Orochi back, that was the deal. I'm tired of him filling my phone with messages."

"Hiyori," Shinji used that particular tone, the one that always had a peculiar effect on her. It was the tone that made her insides melt whenever he said her name.

After a prolonged silence, she couldn't resist the urge to play along with their familiar banter. "What is it, Baldy?" Hiyori's voice came out as a mockingly impatient tone, though beneath her facade, she was secretly savoring this amusing exchange.

Adopting a playful posture as he leaned against a sturdy tree trunk. "You know, it's been two weeks, Hiyori. Two whole weeks without hearing your voice or seeing your scowling face. It's been torture, I tell you."

"Stop exaggerating," Hiyori grumbled, but there was a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You're just being dramatic."

A mischievous glint danced in Shinji's eyes as he continued their light-hearted banter. "Oh, am I now?" He replied, his tone laden with feigned innocence. "Well, be prepared, Hiyori. If you think I'm dramatic now, just wait until I start showing up in Karakura unannounced, becoming a full-blown nuisance."

"Like you don't already do that," Hiyori retorted, rolling her eyes, though she couldn't help but feel a flutter of butterflies deep inside.

"I missed you, baby," Shinji's voice softened, and Hiyori couldn't deny the warmth that spread through her chest at those words. A brief yet comfortable silence settled between them, filling the air with unspoken sentiments. Then, Shinji playfully nudged her, urging her to respond. "Say it back, moron. 'Cause I know you miss me."

Hiyori's brows furrowed as she attempted to maintain her facade of indifference. "Fuck you, I do not miss you. Frankly, I've had a very happy and undisturbed two weeks without your nasal voice buzzing in my ear all the time. Besides, you're just saying that to get on my good side."

Shinji's chuckle danced through the phone line, a playful melody that resonated with the image Hiyori held of him in her mind. "Well, it's working, isn't it?" he teased, his tone shifting once again. "Hiyori, thank you for the gift."

Hiyori couldn't help but roll her eyes at Shinji's antics, her resistance weakening just a bit. "Don't think that sweet talk is going to get you out of trouble, idiot. I am still not talking to you. And about the gift, don't read too much into it. I just saw it; I thought it was the ugliest piece of fabric I had ever seen and decided to send it. No big deal. Not sure what Marshmellow Momo may have said, but it was nothing."

Shinji's voice grew earnest, a softness underlying his words. "Hiyori, you may act tough, but I know there's a good heart in there somewhere. Thanks for the gift. It means a lot to me."

A faint flush crept onto her cheeks at his sincerity, and she grumbled in response, trying to maintain her stoic mask. “Stop that.”

“Stop what?” he asked innocently.

“Your stupid tone, you dor—" Hiyori's words faltered, caught off guard as Shinji's voice took on a tenderness that reached deep into her heart. "I love you, Sarugaki Hiyori. I love you very, very much.”

Shinji's voice softened further, his words gentle and sincere. "I love you, Hiyori. I know you don't want to hear it, but it's the truth. I care about you a lot, and I appreciate the things you do for me."

Hiyori huffed, her irritation mixed with a hint of embarrassment at the vulnerability in his words. "Damn it, Shinji, you always have to go and ruin the moment."

The blonde captain chuckled. "That's just who I am, Hiyori. I'll see you soon. I'll call you tonight, please pick up."

She grumbled some kind of agreement.

"Will send you a couple more emojis for you to decipher, don't show them to Love or Lisa this time. I love you, baby." And without waiting for her reply, he closed the phone.

Shinji smiled to himself as he hung up the phone, satisfaction warming his heart at knowing he had reached Hiyori. He started walking back to the office, strolling slowly through the garden and admiring the lush greenery around him.

.

.

Rangiku was waiting for him with a curious expression on her face. "He is smiling, do you think he got to her?" she asked Momo in an incredulous tone.

Momo beamed, her earlier doubts about Shinji's unconventional approach now replaced with confidence. "I'm sure of it. I told you, it's like they have their own language."

Rangiku shook her head in disbelief.

As he put his feet into the office, and even before the two Lieutenant could ask him how the call went, his phone rang on his own this time, the distinct ringtone indicating an incoming call.

Chapter Text

“So let me get this straight,” he said as he played with her tousled yellow hair, “I threated you and Momo to multiple visits to the ice cream shop, I paid for all lunch, dinner, and breakfast the next day even when Momo wasn’t even in Karakura in the morning. I bought you a new set of track suits and a new winter jacket, and beside all that I also paid for my own gift, the one you sent with Momo.”

She placed a quick kiss on the long column of his neck, making a light red mark with her lips. “Mm-hmm,” she murmured. Then, in an inquisitive tone, she asked, “What is your point, Hage?”

“You don’t think, maybe just maybe,” he trailed his long fingers from the base of her head all the way to the small of her back giving her goose bumps, and settling in her heart shape bottom, “That was a little excessive? Hiyori that card was for emergencies.”

“What is more than an emergency than you shoving your Fukutaichou at me out of nowhere?” Hiyori tilted her head and gave Shinji an impish grin. "And now you're complaining about being generous? What happened to 'I'm the compassionate Taichou'? You can't have it both ways, Shinji."

The captain chuckled and leaned in closer, his warm breath tickling her ear. "Fair point, brat. But still, you could have warned me or something. I nearly dropped my phone when I saw the bill. You are going to drive me to bankruptcy, woman!"

Hiyori's laughter filled the air at Shinji's playful complaint. She couldn't resist teasing him further. "Well, that would teach you, Baldy," she said with a smirk, her left fang protruding slightly as she spoke.

Shinji's eyes glinted mischievously as he replied, his tone teasing. "Oh, I'm sure it would. But I might need to remind you that I can be very persuasive when I want to be, and after everything that happened last month, you still kinda owe me, chibi." He punctuated his sentence with a soft kiss on her nose.

Her cheeks reddened, and she gave him a playful shove. “I owe you? That’s rich.”

Shinji moved one of his hands that were nuzzled in her ass, and counted with his long fingers, “The fucking message all the captains heard, the food, the clothes, the ignoring me for a whole two weeks, the gifts I sent to try to get you to talk to me, the bribes I had to give to Love and Lisa, me coming here AGAIN even though it was your turn to visit, and finally...”

He leaned in closer, his lips brushing against her ear as he whispered, "the love making I just provided, that was, if I may add, truly remarkable.”

Hiyori felt her stomach flutter with excitement and a faint blush crossed her face at his words. He pulled away slightly, searching her eyes for an answer as to how she felt. She met his gaze steadily and replied in a soft voice “Fuck off, you show off.”

He smiled at the affirmation and kissed her forehead tenderly. “That’s not a denial, and I can tell, you thoroughly enjoyed it.” he said quietly and held her close to him.

They stayed like that for a few moments before Hiyori broke the silence by saying, “I did miss you, those two weeks.” She spoke into the crook of his neck, finding it easier than confronting those chocolate eyes that bared her soul naked, so she decided to amend her vulnerability with her biggest weapon, attack. “But I don’t owe you anything. All of those were consequences of your stupid actions.”

“I think, my lovely Hiyori,” He kissed her neck as he brought his hands up to cup her cheeks a little too rough. “I definitely need retribution from you, don’t you think?”

She scrunched her noise, looking confused, “What are you talking about, Shinji?” She protested weakly, trying to push him away but failing miserably as he laughed and pulled her closer for a passionate kiss.  After what felt like ages Hiyori finally found herself able to come up for air, while still comfortably wrapped in Shinji's embrace.

Shinji smiled back and brushed his lips against hers before saying, "And besides, you know what they say about payback?" Hiyori raised an inquisitive eyebrow before hearing his reply. "It's a bitch," he chuckled as he spoke the last word.

"Is that a challenge, you idiotic big toe?" Hiyori retorted with a competitive glint in her eyes.

He grinned. "You bet your scowling face it is. And just so you know, I always win."