After some time, the girls returned, their arms loaded with shopping bags and food containers. Luckily, they had picked up enough food to spare Yuzu from cooking, which was a relief for everyone.
As they walked upstairs, the sounds of laughter and chatter filled the hallway, but then they paused at the doorway. Inside, Ichigo and Yoruichi were cuddled up on the couch, looking completely at ease and utterly content.
The sight caused the trio—Orihime, Tatsuki, and Rukia—to all pout simultaneously, their eyes narrowing in playful jealousy. Even Nel, though unaware of the dynamics, mimicked the expression, sticking her bottom lip out in a perfect imitation.
"You guys are back. Nice," Ichigo said lazily, stretching as he laid back, his voice carrying a tired but genuine warmth.
Rukia, deciding to be bold, slid over and laid beside him. The gesture was met with Ichigo casually draping his arm around her shoulders, an action that made her smile softly, her cheeks flushing just a little.
Orihime and Tatsuki exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of envy and determination. 'Our time will come,' they both silently vowed, steeling themselves for the days ahead.
---
The next morning, Ichigo woke up slowly, letting out a long yawn as the soft morning light filtered through the curtains. Around him, Rukia, Nel, and Yoruichi were still nestled comfortably in bed, their breathing slow and peaceful. Ichigo smirked.
'Alright, time for me to tackle the others. Kinda made them wait long enough,' he thought, slipping out from under the covers and heading to the bathroom.
The shower refreshed him, washing away sleep and filling him with energy. Dressing quickly but thoughtfully, he made sure to pick clothes that were casual yet neat—perfect for a day out.
Before leaving, he turned back to the room and told the girls he'd be back the next day. They watched him go, eyes full of understanding and silent encouragement.
---
Ichigo arrived at Tatsuki's house, stepping up to the door and knocking firmly. Moments later, Tatsuki's mother opened it, her face lighting up with a warm smile.
"Oh Ichigo, hi! How have you been?" she asked, genuine friendliness in her tone.
Ichigo returned the smile. "I've been well, thanks. Is Tatsuki home?"
"Yeah, let me go call her. Wait right here," she replied, disappearing inside.
Within seconds, Tatsuki appeared, a soft blush coloring her cheeks as she stepped to the doorway.
"Hey," she greeted shyly.
"Sup? You ready?" Ichigo asked, a teasing grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"I guess so," Tatsuki replied, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "Where are we going, though? Do you have everything planned?"
Ichigo shrugged lightly. "I was hoping we could do something you wanted."
A sly smirk crept onto Tatsuki's face. "Great, I guess we're going hiking."
"Huh? For real?" Ichigo asked, eyebrows raised in surprise.
She nodded confidently and stepped back inside to grab a bag filled with supplies. "We'll have a picnic in the forest. It's pretty peaceful, so don't worry."
Ichigo chuckled softly. "Well, if it's what you want, then I don't mind. Good thing I dressed in multi-purpose clothes."
Tatsuki laughed, her smile lighting up her whole face. "Good. Let's go then. Please hold the bag."
The two set off together, their footsteps light as they walked through town, sharing stories and enjoying the easy rhythm of their conversation.
As they walked down the tree-lined streets, the gentle rustle of leaves accompanied their footsteps. Ichigo carried the bag of supplies over one shoulder, glancing over at Tatsuki with a teasing smile.
"So, hiking, huh? Do you do this often," Ichigo said, raising an eyebrow.
Tatsuki chuckled, nudging him lightly with her elbow. "Well, sometimes you need a break from the usual chaos. Plus, the forest is really nice this time of year. You'll see."
Ichigo nodded, intrigued. "Yeah, I can see that. I guess I'm just more used to fighting and training than relaxing."
"Maybe that's why you need this," Tatsuki replied with a wink. "You're always on edge. It's good to just slow down and breathe sometimes."
He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I guess you're right. But I'm not exactly good at sitting still."
"That's what makes it fun," she said, smiling warmly. "We'll take it easy, no pressure. Just a picnic and some fresh air."
They fell into a comfortable silence for a moment, the peaceful surroundings calming Ichigo more than he expected.
"So," he said after a while, "what's your favorite part about hiking?"
Tatsuki thought for a second. "Honestly? The quiet. It's nice to escape all the noise and just hear yourself think. And the view — watching the sun filter through the trees, the way everything glows green. It feels... pure."
Ichigo looked around, imagining what she meant. "Sounds kind of peaceful. I could use some of that."
"You'll love it," Tatsuki promised. "And if you get tired, I won't judge. I'm pretty sure I'll be carrying the bag by then anyway."
Ichigo laughed. " Come on what gentleman would i be if i made you carry the bags."
They shared a grin, the early morning sun casting long shadows as they continued down the path toward the forest.
After some time walking through the forest trail, they arrived at a clearing surrounded by tall pine trees. Nestled between them was a small, cozy-looking wooden cabin. Its porch creaked softly in the wind, and light spilled from its front window, casting a warm golden hue onto the grass.
"Oh, so we'll be staying there. I thought we'd camp outside," Ichigo said, raising a brow as he took in the cabin's rustic charm.
Tatsuki smirked, stretching her arms behind her head. "I figured it'd be more comfortable if we stayed inside. Plus, I didn't really bring camping gear," she added casually.
Ichigo shifted the strap of the duffel bag on his shoulder, glancing down at it. "Oh? Then what's in this bag?" he asked, curiosity creeping into his tone.
Tatsuki's lips curled into a sly grin. "Just food and stuff, don't worry. I don't plan on burying you here if I kill you."
Ichigo blinked. "So there's a chance you will kill me?" he asked with mock offense.
"Pretty much," she replied with a shrug, already walking toward the porch like it wasn't a big deal.
Ichigo shook his head, smirking to himself. "You do know I'll still be alive if you kill me, right?"
"Yeah," Tatsuki called back over her shoulder. "But that doesn't mean I can't kill you, though."
She reached the door, hand on the knob, then paused and looked back with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Well, enough about murder. Let's go inside. I'm feeling a bit hungry."
Ichigo let out a small laugh, following behind her. "You're insane," he muttered under his breath.
The door creaked open, and the scent of old wood and something faintly floral wafted out as they stepped into the cabin — a space that felt far more intimate than Ichigo had expected.
TO BE CONTINUED