T 19.1
*Buries face in hands, torn between pride and embarrassment*
Somehow, when Kubo Tite planned his manga, I don't think he had this in mind. Esp. for Urahara Kisuke & Benihime. Freud and Jung would have had a field day analysing this, where underlying mindset is concerned.
******
Disclaimers: The Bleach series is copyrighted to Kubo Tite. I only own this R-rated fanfic.
A/N: Possible ellipse abuse. Spin-off from final chapter of "Tag". If you haven't read that, what are you doing here?
~*~*~*~
Drapes.
Long strips of gossamer billowing from a ceiling of unending darkness, there was a breeze that seemed to be playing hide-and-seek with him. And where did this undetectable source of light come from, wreaking havoc with the shadows to create faint phantasms that snuck around like wisps of doubtful imagination?
His lungs felt constricted though, on seeing a lone puddle of distant darkness that didn’t move, and was larger than the rest. Making his way towards it, so quiet that it would be nigh impossible to hear him-
And there was impossibility.
No braids this time, but hair still artfully twisted up with rose-coloured paper, tattered floor-length robes a subdued fuchsia while seated on the ground, holding a scroll and brush... she turned her head.
The silence seemed to stretch on forever.
Stepping around, dropping to his knees so he wouldn't tower over her petite form, it didn't reduce seemingly quizzical innocence. Or the strange expression that flitted across her face, on seeing him doing so.
"Kisuke-"
"Benihime-"
"What are you doing here?"
That last question came out at the same time, causing both to start laughing.
She answered first.
"This is the border where conscious and subconscious meet, hidden deep within your soul... where else would I be?”
He didn't know how to reply but before he could, she returned to her task.
"A zanpaku-tou's soul prevails as long as its owner. Suspended between life and death, I’m not real... compared to her."
Glancing at the parchment she was working on, he saw a female whose back was turned. Trees, flowers, birds, a river, and the night sky was studded with stars; a wine flask toppled to lie on its side and was quite unlike a gleaming white tower in the distance... The message had never been clearer.
"For the sake of submission, I killed you once. Are you asking me to do it again?"
Stubborn fixation on her drawing was starting to become annoying.
"No. I'm asking you to end your stubborn loneliness."
Why wouldn’t she look at him?
"And who will end yours?"
The brush was still.
"Please leave."
Odd break in her tone on the last word gave it away.
Forcibly restraining a small chin even as she started to move backwards, tilting it up revealed averted eyes gleaming like wet autumn leaves. And the sight undid a secret he'd buried for so long, dissolving the lock.
One arm slipping behind her back, he leaned forward. Only for a spread-eagled hand to separate their faces, extensively sharp nails like the bars of a prison.
"I stabbed you before... go away!"
Sliding his fingers between hers to close over a skeletal-thin hand, the barrier was lowered.
"And I remain unafraid. Because I knew you... I..."
His free hand slid up to tug out stiff paper, letting long black hair fall loose. Bloodless features now contorted as if in pain, pale lips parted but nothing came out. Her Kisuke didn't understand. If the unthinkable was true... even then, it should not be allowed to fully materialise. Besides, there was no future. Nevermind her own selfish dreams; he deserved better, before this became irreversible.
Then why wasn't she clawing some sense into him, instead of waiting for him to advance closer?
"D-don't be foolish."
Forgetting to exhale, she stared at her fear.
"Then enlighten me."
And his lips were pressed against hers.
Both sides didn't move.
His hand was so warm, thumb stroking the curve of her left ear while the other fingers cupped her neck as his lips went lower.
Eyes still unblinkingly open, the sensation of his mouth on bare skin was... Closing her eyes and allowing her head to fall further to one side to rest against firm support, her left hand holding the scroll lay limp against the ground.
And when he stopped, she didn't like it.
So she kissed him back.
Awkward, hesitant, unsure if she was even doing it right... his tongue touching hers was an unexpected shock. But it was welcome, and enjoyable. When his hand found the opening seams to her robe, it wasn't as surprising, even when cool skin was touched.
But she couldn't, didn't dare to do the same to him. Not when the effect of kissing him lessened her self-control, and with fingers that could easily cleave the head off an ox... He had pulled back.
Pulling his fingers free, Kisuke asked for permission to take off her clothes. And was rewarded with a faint blush, followed by almost childlike amusement and a shy nod. Everything was a newfound pleasure, just to see her doing it and with none of the usual affectations influenced by society.
The manner in which he did so was almost reverent, and also beyond words that she had no definition for... and she extended him the same courtesy, request and all.
Kneeling on a few layers of torn down drapes, looking at each other and clothes put to one side, it was somewhat odd. Until forehead against forehead, both sides laughed at the comical aspect of this polite outcome, instead of a sudden mad dash into the mindlessly obvious solution.
Eventually, amusement died out as the urge to kiss each other again took over.
Lying on her back, fingers of one hand interlaced with his once more, allowing his tongue to explore her mouth, she was becoming used to the reassuring weight of his body on hers. The fingers of her other hand were curled against the floor. A small sigh escaped her, as his lips found her throat again.
Pulling away and raising himself on one elbow, Kisuke gazed down at the girl whose eyes were closed. There was so much he wanted to tell her, to impart almost-boyish exuberance that had waited for so long.
"Benihime..."
Looking into opened crimson innocence, he took a deep breath, eyes never leaving hers.
"You're beautiful."
There was such... emotion in that hushed whisper, and the expression on his face could humble a marble god. How could she say no, which was exactly what she had to do? Stop something- Anything- Instead of closing her eyes again --as hot breath ghosted over her breasts, while hands slowly rubbed small circles up and down her hips and thighs-- stirred previously unknown reactions. Her limbs felt almost weightless, in contrast to strange heaviness between her legs.
"Kisuke-"
That came out as a sigh, as the feel of his mouth on her body again made her shiver. Skimming over her navel and descending lower, until- Until-
Pressing his lips to pleasing softness of inner thighs, then the labia, he used his tongue to tantalize particularly sensitive flesh, before returning to slowly tease and repeat the cycle. Eager lift of trembling hips against his mouth was arousing him more than expected. Her quickened breathing gave way to shaky moans that were poorly repressed, tensing, flexing...
He wanted nothing more than to claim her immediately, to end badly aching desire. But prolonging tortuous foreplay would make the end result even more satisfying. Besides, judging from the marked difference in their sizes, insufficient preparation would be disastrous.
Sudden loss of intoxicating warmth made her protest, eyes opening in confusion to look into his. The shade of clear pupils had darkened, look on taut features now reminiscent of dangerous hunger... seemed to steal her breath away. Like long fingers now sliding up into moist need. Exploring, caressing, distracting-
Faint rose tinting high cheekbones, eyes hazy with passion and lips moving, yet no sound was forthcoming as she struggled to reclaim some measure of control. And was defeated as his mouth closed over a nipple. The second time she tried, his name trailed off abruptly as she also felt deft fingers slip between her thighs. Mouth unrelenting, hands so knowing and- It was as if he had found some secret mechanism causing her body to relax, legs opening to grant him access and was that a whimper, pushing up against invasive pressure because she liked it?
Seeing a flush suffuse pale cheeks, the increasingly urgent manner in which her hips rubbed against his hand, shyness fading as she twisted beneath him while trying not to was captivating.
The darkened shade of her mouth was so kissable. Doe-shaped eyes widening, before finally closing as her head fell back, seemingly frail body pressed so pleadingly against him… sudden rush of satisfaction was overwhelmingly powerful, nearly making Kisuke shiver. Licking and sucking his way down unmarred softness, he pulled away. He wanted to hear her.
"Benihime..."
Eyelashes fluttering open, what she saw nearly made her forget everything else. Eyes darkened to an unfamiliar hue, the manner in which he spoke sent a shiver down her spine. Low, feral, almost a growl and so possessive...
"Come for me."
A gasp fell from parted lips, as panting became more erratic with each passing moment.
Their pattern had been established with him, and now he wanted to break it. Seeing her like this, totally unafraid and carelessly expressive; she was so beautiful...
Pulling her to him, he savoured the faint scent of indefinable flowers and sweat, even as she tensed one final time, muffling delicious ecstasy against tanned firmness.
Face pressed against his shoulder, she was barely over it when his hands further parted both thighs. Breathing hitched, she forgot to exhale as he slowly pushed himself into her. He was larger than expected and it might have been uncomfortable, except she was still protected in the enjoyment of aftermath from earlier. Spreading her legs further, she shuddered with heightened arousal at the sensation of increasing penetration...
"Kisuke..."
Yielding. Wet. Responsive. Husky murmur of his name while experiencing pleasing stretch of her willingness to fully accommodate his lust was electrifying, and the feel of her lips on his skin was... "Benihime... I need you... around-"
Both could not suppress a moan as she complied, legs wrapping high about his waist and allowing him to sink deeper. He heard her gasp, and felt slender limbs stiffen beneath him. And did not move, in case she needed time to adjust.
It had hurt, at that last bit. As if a final barrier had been breached. Staying still, allowing the twinges to fade away... Then worried that remaining so for too long would lead to cramped stiffness of muscles, she shifted lightly against him.
And was rewarded with an audible inhalation, along with the first few sparks of rediscovered pleasure.
Nails scraping against the floor, arching to meet him with increasing fervour, his free hand cradled the nape of her neck, while his lips brushed against coolness of a bared throat. It was amazingly erotic; to be inside her, moving with her, enjoying the manner in which her cries mingled with his into a primal song of sorts. Clench, release, occasionally pausing to shiver... She was everything he had dreamt of, for countless nights that haunted him into the day. And now, he never wanted it to end.
Dimly aware of the threat this union produced, nevertheless she didn't care. Losing herself in his passionate embrace, welcoming the sweat-slick press of his body into hers, the inevitable was acknowledged as together, they finally attained unforgettable bliss.
Lying in each other's arms, riding out the last waves of satiation, he kissed her. Lazy, lingering, cupping her cheek... undeniable honesty was uttered.
"I love you."
Attaining two orgasms in successive quickness --due to his mercilessness-- had left her feeling weak with the gloriousness of such an outcome. But it did not dull her wits. Red eyes widening, lips parting... yet nothing came out.
Looking at frightening conviction, evident in the way he was gazing at her, she wanted to say it so badly. Knowing what he was waiting, wanting to hear... Seeing the curve of his mouth straighten, she instinctively reached up to touch it. And stopped, because she was afraid of hurting him... or was it herself?
"Am I allowed to?"
That hesitant whisper puzzled him, and he blinked.
"To have done this, and now- now- I want to, yet I don’t know if it's right... but I can’t stop. Why..."
The anguish in her voice, even as it became quieter was unmistakable.
"Why did I have to... fall so hopelessly in love with you?"
Kissing her brow, his reply was just as muted.
"Benihime... let me."
Now it was her turn to be puzzled.
"I'll prove it. That we're as hopeless as each other, as you say. But it's a truth I want to keep with you, always. Without regret."
She did not dare to believe. This was not her cynical, overtly-cautious Kisuke. If anything, he was promising- Really promising-
"R-really?"
His reply was a kiss. Close-mouthed and gentle, strengthening pure intentions with an unvoiced vow. And it was unexpectedly aching, and why was her face wet-
He could taste damp salt. Drawing back slightly, the sight surprised him. Why was she crying? Then she looked up, and the glimmer in those unearthly eyes was not as entrancing as the naked emotion in a small face.
"I've waited for so long..."
And he rejoiced to hear those words. To feel lethal sharpness touching his cheek but not cut the skin... He wanted to celebrate this. To glorify in that feeling of utter wholeness, only experienced when sharing with her. His lips found hers again, even as he pulled her closer.
Giving in to tenderness as it became more passionate, his hands caressing until they reached her hips, gentleness became more demanding but no less considerate. Nails digging into the ground, Benihime offered herself up to him. And Kisuke accepted, worshipping the sweetness of her mouth, the unselfish beauty of her body and the gratifying richness of her love.
Between loving murmurs and impassioned cries, they were finally coming to a new understanding. The elevation was one that redefined their boundaries, ensuring it could not be matched ever again. And sealed their fate.
~*~*~*~
He was happier than he could ever remember in ages. Being able to converse with one about anything... and the silences were comfortable, even if they did nothing but relax together.
"She could go under Kuukaku-sama's influence, if you think she needs more confidence."
"If she does that, I can't afford new shophouses every time a mature Ururu teaches Jinta a lesson!"
The idea was funny. Chortling while snuggled against him, head resting beneath his chin and his arms around her waist, she had never felt more complete than at this moment. Fingers lightly curled about broad shoulders, Benihime was contented. Then she heard him.
"If only... if this were the real world... you'd be the mother of our children.”
And that wistful melancholia reminded her of what she had wanted to tell him. It had to be said, even if he might not like it. Pulling herself up, elbows resting on his chest, faltering courage came out.
"Kisuke..."
Gazing at each other, they were reminded of something else entirely. The number of times this had happened, as if challenged or hypnotised... like the vicious battles for bankai. The time when triumph felt like failure, with a sword buried through her heart. And when she was poised atop him, tousled dark tresses draped about slim shoulders and eventually caressing his waist and chest.
Staring into unwavering intensity, both moved together while deliberately aware of every little sensation. Watching each other slowly lose control, giving in to heady desire as they sought to drive each other crazy. His hands guiding, fondling and restricting as he pulled her tightly onto him, made her whimper at reckless pleasure. Her blatant enjoyment of enslaving him to her rhythm, gasping as each upwards thrust of his hips increased the addiction...
Faces now red from simultaneous recognition of what they both remembered, the memory only made her looked away first.
"Y-Yoruichi-sama. She is flesh and blood. I’m not. You’re a realist, so- so-"
On hearing her words, loosely interlaced fingers were now separated and balled into fists.
"Your future lies with her. And you can't deny-"
He was frowning.
"That there could be- No, there is something more between you two."
His reply was edgy.
"Then why hasn't anything happened, in all the time I've known her?"
"With your intelligence, I’m sure you can figure that out quickly if you wanted to. Or you disappoint me-"
Propping himself up on both elbows so he could face her on equal eye level, his voice was now inexplicably bitter.
"And how shall I find out to satisfy you? Kiss her senseless? Drag her into my arms and see if I enjoy doing to her what I did with you, for at least one night?"
The thought conjured up by his answer was somewhat painful, and not one she wished to analyse. His bluntness could be rather cruel at times. This was one of them. And the bleak knowledge that she could never do what Yoruichi-sama was capable of- Biting her lip, she did not flinch, although unsmiling features blanched further.
"If it’s necessary, then do so. But by all means, let me know the result of your discovery. Then you can see- Understand-"
He'd never witnessed a smile that was more painful to look at.
"How right I am. That this will end. And you'll never have to look back."
Lash-less eyes were now averted, as she swallowed.
"Because you won't need this... substitution..."
Grabbing her shoulders, an extremely irritated shinigami was about to tell her off for being ridiculous when he saw it, even as she tried to move away. That transparent trickle was sufficiently revelation, inducing him to sit up and hug her. Stroking her hair, murmuring his apologies in her ear and holding her more closely against him. He didn't want to see her like this, because it also saddened him.
"I'm sorry... I didn't mean to be cruel, Benihime... I'm so sorry..."
Her arms came around him, deadly nails resting lightly on his back.
"If you want me to... I'll definitely find out, somehow. As long as doing so makes you happy." But why won't you believe me? That you make me happy?
There was no answer for a long while, and then a soft whisper.
"Good. And... you have to leave soon. Time is short."
"What?"
Pulling back so she could look at him, one razor-sharp length pointed upwards. His line of vision followed the direction. Then he realised that the drapes seemed to have mostly receded into the shadowy ceiling, thus shortening their length.
"That is your warning. If you do not leave before they totally disappear, you'll be unable to fully return to yourself and be trapped here. In other words, you die. And everything else dies with you."
Head bowed, he said nothing but let her get up. Reaching for his clothes, he pulled them on, adjusted it for some semblance of neatness due to habit, and stood up. By then, she was somewhat presentable as well.
Turning towards the petite female, he embraced her, then leant down and kissed her fiercely on the lips. His farewell was just as passionate.
"I'll come back to you, I promise. No matter the outcome, because I've always believed and known, ever since we fought in all honesty... I love you for who you are. And Yoruichi's presence cannot change that fact."
She didn't know how to answer.
But leaning against him on tiptoe, her kiss was exquisitely gentle.
And watched him leave.
After his departure, the drapes began to slowly lower down once more, signifying his successful return.
Looking at them, the solitary figure was contemplative. Filled with new knowledge, confused by new experiences and longing, and wondering…
In here, it does not rain or snow, and is always a comfortable temperature. But do you know, it's always been rather dark? I don't like the dark, which makes everything harder. And maybe, if you do find happiness I can't give you, with her... maybe it'll bring more light.
However, now that she actually observed her surroundings, it was brighter already.
And it was no trick of imagination. She didn't dare to think further on the implications.
She would wait, until he came back.
Then the truth could break her heart but either way, as long as he was happy...
Nothing else mattered.
Owari
A/N: Unsure if I should write and post up a part 2 ie Kisuke comes back after kissing Yoruichi to tell Benihime... what?
Somehow, when Kubo Tite planned his manga, I don't think he had this in mind. Esp. for Urahara Kisuke & Benihime. Freud and Jung would have had a field day analysing this, where underlying mindset is concerned.
******
Disclaimers: The Bleach series is copyrighted to Kubo Tite. I only own this R-rated fanfic.
A/N: Possible ellipse abuse. Spin-off from final chapter of "Tag". If you haven't read that, what are you doing here?
~*~*~*~
Drapes.
Long strips of gossamer billowing from a ceiling of unending darkness, there was a breeze that seemed to be playing hide-and-seek with him. And where did this undetectable source of light come from, wreaking havoc with the shadows to create faint phantasms that snuck around like wisps of doubtful imagination?
His lungs felt constricted though, on seeing a lone puddle of distant darkness that didn’t move, and was larger than the rest. Making his way towards it, so quiet that it would be nigh impossible to hear him-
And there was impossibility.
No braids this time, but hair still artfully twisted up with rose-coloured paper, tattered floor-length robes a subdued fuchsia while seated on the ground, holding a scroll and brush... she turned her head.
The silence seemed to stretch on forever.
Stepping around, dropping to his knees so he wouldn't tower over her petite form, it didn't reduce seemingly quizzical innocence. Or the strange expression that flitted across her face, on seeing him doing so.
"Kisuke-"
"Benihime-"
"What are you doing here?"
That last question came out at the same time, causing both to start laughing.
She answered first.
"This is the border where conscious and subconscious meet, hidden deep within your soul... where else would I be?”
He didn't know how to reply but before he could, she returned to her task.
"A zanpaku-tou's soul prevails as long as its owner. Suspended between life and death, I’m not real... compared to her."
Glancing at the parchment she was working on, he saw a female whose back was turned. Trees, flowers, birds, a river, and the night sky was studded with stars; a wine flask toppled to lie on its side and was quite unlike a gleaming white tower in the distance... The message had never been clearer.
"For the sake of submission, I killed you once. Are you asking me to do it again?"
Stubborn fixation on her drawing was starting to become annoying.
"No. I'm asking you to end your stubborn loneliness."
Why wouldn’t she look at him?
"And who will end yours?"
The brush was still.
"Please leave."
Odd break in her tone on the last word gave it away.
Forcibly restraining a small chin even as she started to move backwards, tilting it up revealed averted eyes gleaming like wet autumn leaves. And the sight undid a secret he'd buried for so long, dissolving the lock.
One arm slipping behind her back, he leaned forward. Only for a spread-eagled hand to separate their faces, extensively sharp nails like the bars of a prison.
"I stabbed you before... go away!"
Sliding his fingers between hers to close over a skeletal-thin hand, the barrier was lowered.
"And I remain unafraid. Because I knew you... I..."
His free hand slid up to tug out stiff paper, letting long black hair fall loose. Bloodless features now contorted as if in pain, pale lips parted but nothing came out. Her Kisuke didn't understand. If the unthinkable was true... even then, it should not be allowed to fully materialise. Besides, there was no future. Nevermind her own selfish dreams; he deserved better, before this became irreversible.
Then why wasn't she clawing some sense into him, instead of waiting for him to advance closer?
"D-don't be foolish."
Forgetting to exhale, she stared at her fear.
"Then enlighten me."
And his lips were pressed against hers.
Both sides didn't move.
His hand was so warm, thumb stroking the curve of her left ear while the other fingers cupped her neck as his lips went lower.
Eyes still unblinkingly open, the sensation of his mouth on bare skin was... Closing her eyes and allowing her head to fall further to one side to rest against firm support, her left hand holding the scroll lay limp against the ground.
And when he stopped, she didn't like it.
So she kissed him back.
Awkward, hesitant, unsure if she was even doing it right... his tongue touching hers was an unexpected shock. But it was welcome, and enjoyable. When his hand found the opening seams to her robe, it wasn't as surprising, even when cool skin was touched.
But she couldn't, didn't dare to do the same to him. Not when the effect of kissing him lessened her self-control, and with fingers that could easily cleave the head off an ox... He had pulled back.
Pulling his fingers free, Kisuke asked for permission to take off her clothes. And was rewarded with a faint blush, followed by almost childlike amusement and a shy nod. Everything was a newfound pleasure, just to see her doing it and with none of the usual affectations influenced by society.
The manner in which he did so was almost reverent, and also beyond words that she had no definition for... and she extended him the same courtesy, request and all.
Kneeling on a few layers of torn down drapes, looking at each other and clothes put to one side, it was somewhat odd. Until forehead against forehead, both sides laughed at the comical aspect of this polite outcome, instead of a sudden mad dash into the mindlessly obvious solution.
Eventually, amusement died out as the urge to kiss each other again took over.
Lying on her back, fingers of one hand interlaced with his once more, allowing his tongue to explore her mouth, she was becoming used to the reassuring weight of his body on hers. The fingers of her other hand were curled against the floor. A small sigh escaped her, as his lips found her throat again.
Pulling away and raising himself on one elbow, Kisuke gazed down at the girl whose eyes were closed. There was so much he wanted to tell her, to impart almost-boyish exuberance that had waited for so long.
"Benihime..."
Looking into opened crimson innocence, he took a deep breath, eyes never leaving hers.
"You're beautiful."
There was such... emotion in that hushed whisper, and the expression on his face could humble a marble god. How could she say no, which was exactly what she had to do? Stop something- Anything- Instead of closing her eyes again --as hot breath ghosted over her breasts, while hands slowly rubbed small circles up and down her hips and thighs-- stirred previously unknown reactions. Her limbs felt almost weightless, in contrast to strange heaviness between her legs.
"Kisuke-"
That came out as a sigh, as the feel of his mouth on her body again made her shiver. Skimming over her navel and descending lower, until- Until-
Pressing his lips to pleasing softness of inner thighs, then the labia, he used his tongue to tantalize particularly sensitive flesh, before returning to slowly tease and repeat the cycle. Eager lift of trembling hips against his mouth was arousing him more than expected. Her quickened breathing gave way to shaky moans that were poorly repressed, tensing, flexing...
He wanted nothing more than to claim her immediately, to end badly aching desire. But prolonging tortuous foreplay would make the end result even more satisfying. Besides, judging from the marked difference in their sizes, insufficient preparation would be disastrous.
Sudden loss of intoxicating warmth made her protest, eyes opening in confusion to look into his. The shade of clear pupils had darkened, look on taut features now reminiscent of dangerous hunger... seemed to steal her breath away. Like long fingers now sliding up into moist need. Exploring, caressing, distracting-
Faint rose tinting high cheekbones, eyes hazy with passion and lips moving, yet no sound was forthcoming as she struggled to reclaim some measure of control. And was defeated as his mouth closed over a nipple. The second time she tried, his name trailed off abruptly as she also felt deft fingers slip between her thighs. Mouth unrelenting, hands so knowing and- It was as if he had found some secret mechanism causing her body to relax, legs opening to grant him access and was that a whimper, pushing up against invasive pressure because she liked it?
Seeing a flush suffuse pale cheeks, the increasingly urgent manner in which her hips rubbed against his hand, shyness fading as she twisted beneath him while trying not to was captivating.
The darkened shade of her mouth was so kissable. Doe-shaped eyes widening, before finally closing as her head fell back, seemingly frail body pressed so pleadingly against him… sudden rush of satisfaction was overwhelmingly powerful, nearly making Kisuke shiver. Licking and sucking his way down unmarred softness, he pulled away. He wanted to hear her.
"Benihime..."
Eyelashes fluttering open, what she saw nearly made her forget everything else. Eyes darkened to an unfamiliar hue, the manner in which he spoke sent a shiver down her spine. Low, feral, almost a growl and so possessive...
"Come for me."
A gasp fell from parted lips, as panting became more erratic with each passing moment.
Their pattern had been established with him, and now he wanted to break it. Seeing her like this, totally unafraid and carelessly expressive; she was so beautiful...
Pulling her to him, he savoured the faint scent of indefinable flowers and sweat, even as she tensed one final time, muffling delicious ecstasy against tanned firmness.
Face pressed against his shoulder, she was barely over it when his hands further parted both thighs. Breathing hitched, she forgot to exhale as he slowly pushed himself into her. He was larger than expected and it might have been uncomfortable, except she was still protected in the enjoyment of aftermath from earlier. Spreading her legs further, she shuddered with heightened arousal at the sensation of increasing penetration...
"Kisuke..."
Yielding. Wet. Responsive. Husky murmur of his name while experiencing pleasing stretch of her willingness to fully accommodate his lust was electrifying, and the feel of her lips on his skin was... "Benihime... I need you... around-"
Both could not suppress a moan as she complied, legs wrapping high about his waist and allowing him to sink deeper. He heard her gasp, and felt slender limbs stiffen beneath him. And did not move, in case she needed time to adjust.
It had hurt, at that last bit. As if a final barrier had been breached. Staying still, allowing the twinges to fade away... Then worried that remaining so for too long would lead to cramped stiffness of muscles, she shifted lightly against him.
And was rewarded with an audible inhalation, along with the first few sparks of rediscovered pleasure.
Nails scraping against the floor, arching to meet him with increasing fervour, his free hand cradled the nape of her neck, while his lips brushed against coolness of a bared throat. It was amazingly erotic; to be inside her, moving with her, enjoying the manner in which her cries mingled with his into a primal song of sorts. Clench, release, occasionally pausing to shiver... She was everything he had dreamt of, for countless nights that haunted him into the day. And now, he never wanted it to end.
Dimly aware of the threat this union produced, nevertheless she didn't care. Losing herself in his passionate embrace, welcoming the sweat-slick press of his body into hers, the inevitable was acknowledged as together, they finally attained unforgettable bliss.
Lying in each other's arms, riding out the last waves of satiation, he kissed her. Lazy, lingering, cupping her cheek... undeniable honesty was uttered.
"I love you."
Attaining two orgasms in successive quickness --due to his mercilessness-- had left her feeling weak with the gloriousness of such an outcome. But it did not dull her wits. Red eyes widening, lips parting... yet nothing came out.
Looking at frightening conviction, evident in the way he was gazing at her, she wanted to say it so badly. Knowing what he was waiting, wanting to hear... Seeing the curve of his mouth straighten, she instinctively reached up to touch it. And stopped, because she was afraid of hurting him... or was it herself?
"Am I allowed to?"
That hesitant whisper puzzled him, and he blinked.
"To have done this, and now- now- I want to, yet I don’t know if it's right... but I can’t stop. Why..."
The anguish in her voice, even as it became quieter was unmistakable.
"Why did I have to... fall so hopelessly in love with you?"
Kissing her brow, his reply was just as muted.
"Benihime... let me."
Now it was her turn to be puzzled.
"I'll prove it. That we're as hopeless as each other, as you say. But it's a truth I want to keep with you, always. Without regret."
She did not dare to believe. This was not her cynical, overtly-cautious Kisuke. If anything, he was promising- Really promising-
"R-really?"
His reply was a kiss. Close-mouthed and gentle, strengthening pure intentions with an unvoiced vow. And it was unexpectedly aching, and why was her face wet-
He could taste damp salt. Drawing back slightly, the sight surprised him. Why was she crying? Then she looked up, and the glimmer in those unearthly eyes was not as entrancing as the naked emotion in a small face.
"I've waited for so long..."
And he rejoiced to hear those words. To feel lethal sharpness touching his cheek but not cut the skin... He wanted to celebrate this. To glorify in that feeling of utter wholeness, only experienced when sharing with her. His lips found hers again, even as he pulled her closer.
Giving in to tenderness as it became more passionate, his hands caressing until they reached her hips, gentleness became more demanding but no less considerate. Nails digging into the ground, Benihime offered herself up to him. And Kisuke accepted, worshipping the sweetness of her mouth, the unselfish beauty of her body and the gratifying richness of her love.
Between loving murmurs and impassioned cries, they were finally coming to a new understanding. The elevation was one that redefined their boundaries, ensuring it could not be matched ever again. And sealed their fate.
~*~*~*~
He was happier than he could ever remember in ages. Being able to converse with one about anything... and the silences were comfortable, even if they did nothing but relax together.
"She could go under Kuukaku-sama's influence, if you think she needs more confidence."
"If she does that, I can't afford new shophouses every time a mature Ururu teaches Jinta a lesson!"
The idea was funny. Chortling while snuggled against him, head resting beneath his chin and his arms around her waist, she had never felt more complete than at this moment. Fingers lightly curled about broad shoulders, Benihime was contented. Then she heard him.
"If only... if this were the real world... you'd be the mother of our children.”
And that wistful melancholia reminded her of what she had wanted to tell him. It had to be said, even if he might not like it. Pulling herself up, elbows resting on his chest, faltering courage came out.
"Kisuke..."
Gazing at each other, they were reminded of something else entirely. The number of times this had happened, as if challenged or hypnotised... like the vicious battles for bankai. The time when triumph felt like failure, with a sword buried through her heart. And when she was poised atop him, tousled dark tresses draped about slim shoulders and eventually caressing his waist and chest.
Staring into unwavering intensity, both moved together while deliberately aware of every little sensation. Watching each other slowly lose control, giving in to heady desire as they sought to drive each other crazy. His hands guiding, fondling and restricting as he pulled her tightly onto him, made her whimper at reckless pleasure. Her blatant enjoyment of enslaving him to her rhythm, gasping as each upwards thrust of his hips increased the addiction...
Faces now red from simultaneous recognition of what they both remembered, the memory only made her looked away first.
"Y-Yoruichi-sama. She is flesh and blood. I’m not. You’re a realist, so- so-"
On hearing her words, loosely interlaced fingers were now separated and balled into fists.
"Your future lies with her. And you can't deny-"
He was frowning.
"That there could be- No, there is something more between you two."
His reply was edgy.
"Then why hasn't anything happened, in all the time I've known her?"
"With your intelligence, I’m sure you can figure that out quickly if you wanted to. Or you disappoint me-"
Propping himself up on both elbows so he could face her on equal eye level, his voice was now inexplicably bitter.
"And how shall I find out to satisfy you? Kiss her senseless? Drag her into my arms and see if I enjoy doing to her what I did with you, for at least one night?"
The thought conjured up by his answer was somewhat painful, and not one she wished to analyse. His bluntness could be rather cruel at times. This was one of them. And the bleak knowledge that she could never do what Yoruichi-sama was capable of- Biting her lip, she did not flinch, although unsmiling features blanched further.
"If it’s necessary, then do so. But by all means, let me know the result of your discovery. Then you can see- Understand-"
He'd never witnessed a smile that was more painful to look at.
"How right I am. That this will end. And you'll never have to look back."
Lash-less eyes were now averted, as she swallowed.
"Because you won't need this... substitution..."
Grabbing her shoulders, an extremely irritated shinigami was about to tell her off for being ridiculous when he saw it, even as she tried to move away. That transparent trickle was sufficiently revelation, inducing him to sit up and hug her. Stroking her hair, murmuring his apologies in her ear and holding her more closely against him. He didn't want to see her like this, because it also saddened him.
"I'm sorry... I didn't mean to be cruel, Benihime... I'm so sorry..."
Her arms came around him, deadly nails resting lightly on his back.
"If you want me to... I'll definitely find out, somehow. As long as doing so makes you happy." But why won't you believe me? That you make me happy?
There was no answer for a long while, and then a soft whisper.
"Good. And... you have to leave soon. Time is short."
"What?"
Pulling back so she could look at him, one razor-sharp length pointed upwards. His line of vision followed the direction. Then he realised that the drapes seemed to have mostly receded into the shadowy ceiling, thus shortening their length.
"That is your warning. If you do not leave before they totally disappear, you'll be unable to fully return to yourself and be trapped here. In other words, you die. And everything else dies with you."
Head bowed, he said nothing but let her get up. Reaching for his clothes, he pulled them on, adjusted it for some semblance of neatness due to habit, and stood up. By then, she was somewhat presentable as well.
Turning towards the petite female, he embraced her, then leant down and kissed her fiercely on the lips. His farewell was just as passionate.
"I'll come back to you, I promise. No matter the outcome, because I've always believed and known, ever since we fought in all honesty... I love you for who you are. And Yoruichi's presence cannot change that fact."
She didn't know how to answer.
But leaning against him on tiptoe, her kiss was exquisitely gentle.
And watched him leave.
After his departure, the drapes began to slowly lower down once more, signifying his successful return.
Looking at them, the solitary figure was contemplative. Filled with new knowledge, confused by new experiences and longing, and wondering…
In here, it does not rain or snow, and is always a comfortable temperature. But do you know, it's always been rather dark? I don't like the dark, which makes everything harder. And maybe, if you do find happiness I can't give you, with her... maybe it'll bring more light.
However, now that she actually observed her surroundings, it was brighter already.
And it was no trick of imagination. She didn't dare to think further on the implications.
She would wait, until he came back.
Then the truth could break her heart but either way, as long as he was happy...
Nothing else mattered.
Owari
A/N: Unsure if I should write and post up a part 2 ie Kisuke comes back after kissing Yoruichi to tell Benihime... what?