BLEAK

Chapter 15: For a New Tomorrow

--In the Squad 4 Barracks...----

"Ah, Hisana. Captain Kuchiki is on the second floor. He should be awake right now, but I'm sure you'd like to visit him. Rukia and Ichigo had just left from visiting him." 

She lead me up the stairs. 

I'll be back for you, Hisana.

Aizen's words were echoing at the back of my mind. I didn't want him to even step foot near me again. I felt so much hatred and hostility towards him after what he had done to my family. 

And here I am, now representing a fallen clan. No heirs at all or any one in the royal court of my family- just me. 

Byakuya had told Rukia everything and asked for her forgiveness. She was also pardoned for her actions, and Ichigo and his friends were all safe. I was just glad that everyone was alright. 

"There he is, go on in." Captain Unohana turned and left, and I stood in the doorway, nervous. 

Byakuya turned in my direction, and his eyes widened once he saw me. "Hisana.." 

"Byakuya.. can.. I come in, or were you about to rest?"

His demeanor seemed to have changed in such a short time. "Please, come in. I could never turn you away." He patted gently on the bed beside him for me to sit down next to him. I did so, and then he instantly held me tightly against him. 

"I'm sorry, Hisana..."

My eyes went wide, and I felt...warm. 

" Byakuya..." 

"My actions towards you, Rukia, and the others were intolerable. Even though I was acting solely towards my pride and promises to the Kuchiki clan, I didn't take care of my sister like I should have, and I not only upset her, but I treated you wrongly. I knew upset you, and Hisana.. I know it may take me a while to earn this back, but I want to earn your forgiveness..." 

I turned towards Byakuya, putting my hand gently on his cheek with tears in my eyes. "You already have.." I leaned toward him and kissed him softly. Byakuya closed his eyes, returning the kiss. I found myself melting into it, and I was... happy. 

Our lips parted from the kiss and we looked at each other, deep into our eyes- blushing. 

"Hisana.." 

"Byakuya.." 

"Don't leave.. stay here, with me tonight." 

"I won't leave. Nor do I want to, ever again."

I snuggled up to Byakuya, and he held me against him. He was warm, smelling of cherry blossoms and some type of musk. He took his scarf off and placed it around my neck. "It looks good on you. It suits you. Soon , someday.. you'll be Lady Hisana Kusonarii- Kuchiki." 

I moved closer to him, smiling. "I'm proud to take that name." 

"And I'm proud that it's you who will be by my side. Once I get better, I want to formally ask you. Good night, my love." He kissed my forehead and we soon both fell asleep. 

Tomorrow, would be a better day.