After his fight with Yushiro, (Y/N) made his way to his group of friends. Yushiro tried persuading (Y/N) to stick around for a bit longer, but unfortunately, (Y/N) plans got in the way. (Y/N) did promise Yushiro that he'd make it a point to visit Yushiro again during his next visit to the Soul Society.

(Y/N) realized he was close to running late.

(Y/N): *thinking* So much for checking up on everyone...

(Y/N) decided to make his way to the Squad 4 barracks, however on his way, (Y/N) ran into a familiar Captain.

(Y/N): Soi-Fon?

Soi-Fon stopped in her tracks as she heard (Y/N)'s voice. Soi-Fon turned around, now seeing (Y/N).

Soi-Fon: (Y/N)? I had a feeling you'd be here...

(Y/N): You did? What gave it away?

Soi-Fon: I saw Ichigo earlier. So I assumed you'd be here as well.

(Y/N): I see...

...

...

...

There was an awkward silence.

(Y/N): *thinking* Alright, (Y/N)... Don't chicken out now... You've already ignored her for the entire week since the whole situation happened.

Flashback

~~~~

(Y/N): I didn't bring you here so that you could kill yourself! I can't lose you-

~~~~

Soi-Fon: I... I want to but... One mistake and I'll lose you forever-

~~~~

They both heard the other. It was only a matter of time until they had to talk about the elephant in the room. Sure, nobody wants to lose a friend or family. But (Y/N) knew exactly what he meant when he said what he said.

Though he wasn't sure if Soi-Fon felt the same.

(Y/N): S-say, can I talk to you in private?

Soi-Fon: Sure.

(Timeskip)

After a minute of walking, (Y/N) and Soi-Fon found a more secluded spot to talk.

Soi-Fon: This seems good enough. Now then, what was it you wanted to talk about?

(Y/N) felt the sweat pouring down his forehead. The nervousness was starting to get to him.

(Y/N): *thinking* Get it together. When have you ever been nervous to talk to people? You asked her on a date before, this should be easy!

(Y/N) took a deep breath as he built the courage to speak.

(Y/N): I won't beat around the bush. Soi-Fon, I like you...

Soi-Fon: W-wait a minute, where is this coming from?

Soi-Fon was a blushing mess at the moment. Sure, (Y/N) was usually straightforward about what he thought about her, but she was honestly shocked to hear this revelation.

Soi-Fon: Do you mean... romantically?

(Y/N): Yes. It's been something that's been on my mind for a while, but as of right now, I can't really see myself dating anyone else besides you.

...

...

...

Soi-Fon: Explain.

(Y/N): Huh?

Soi-Fon: I... I can't possibly fathom how you would fall in love with me. So tell me, why do you like me so much?

(Y/N): It's a bit hard to put into words, but I'll try.

(Y/N) took a few seconds to gather his thoughts before he started to ramble.

(Y/N): Despite our rough first meeting, we were able to quickly become friends. At first I didn't think much about it but after spending enough time with each other, I became a lot more reliant on you. It didn't help that you became just as close to me as some of my friends in the World of the Living. We have our friendly banter but we put our lives in each other's hands time and time again.

(Y/N) paused to catch his breath before continuing.

(Y/N): When we were in the Fake Karakura Town and I saw you get cut down by Aizen, my heart dropped. I started to panic. I think that was when the realization of my feelings started. If Captain Unohana wasn't there to reassure me, I think I would've lost it. I just could bear the idea of losing you since then. I love our goofy banters. I love how you aren't afraid to speak your mind. It makes conversations way more fun and interesting. And you always motivate me to be better. It also doesn't help that I find you attractive. You-

Soi-Fon: Alright, alright, I think I got the gist of it...

Soi-Fon was honestly not expecting the compliments that she was currently receiving. Soi-Fon believes that (Y/N) deserved to hear how she really felt as well.

Soi-Fon: If I'm being honest, I've grown feelings for you too.

Now it was (Y/N) turn to be surprised.

Soi-Fon: Maybe it was because you were the one who helped me break the insecurity I felt after Yoruichi left. You taught me how to enjoy what the world had to offer. That work wasn't the only thing that mattered. Truth be told, I was... jealous of how many women have gotten your attention over the years... I hate to admit it but every time a new female showed up, I secretly hoped you didn't introduce them as your girlfriend. It's weird, I feel like a different person when you're involved. It's so unlike me...

Maybe it was because he wasn't really experienced with romance, but this came to (Y/N) as a surprise. All of a sudden, certain interactions made sense.

~~~~

Mashiro: (N/N)! Over here! We came to help!

(Y/N) was caught off guard by the sudden yell. He knew right away that it was Mashiro. (Y/N) simply waved back. Soi-Fon elbowed (Y/N) in his side.

(Y/N): Ow... Hey, I just got revived you know...

Soi-Fon: S-stay focused alright...

(Y/N): You're suddenly aggravated all of a sudden. And your face is all red. You sure you don't wanna sit this one out? Me and Omaeda can give you some more time to rest.

Soi-Fon: I'll be fine...

~~~~

Wiz: Speaking of that friend of yours, mind explaining her grumpy attitude?

(Y/N): Hm?

Wiz: After you passed out, she was giving me glares when I decided to take you home.

(S/N): Isn't it obvious? She was jealous...

~~~~

(Y/N): *thinking* But then again, she did accuse me of being a "skirt chaser". It should've been obvious.

(Y/N) felt a wave of relief wash over him knowing that Soi-Fon felt the same way. But they're was still one issue he had to address.

(Y/N): Listen, Soi-Fon... I know I'm still... young, but I'll soon turn 18. Once I finally become an adult and graduate high school, will you be willing to date me?

Soi-Fon: You'd really wait that long? Fine, here's my reply...

...

...

Soi-Fon: I'll be waiting. Until then, you aren't allowed to date anyone else. Got it?

(Y/N): Loud and clear.

Right on cue, (Y/N)'s got a notification on his phone as he realized it was now his meet up time with Unohana.

(Y/N): I'm going to be late... But I guess it was worth it.

Soi-Fon: Late for what?

(Y/N): Just between me and you, Unohana is planning to train me. Though she wasn't sure if she would get permission.

Soi-Fon: I see...

(Y/N): Sorry this was so abrupt. Maybe I'll just cancel-

Soi-Fon: Don't. It's alright.

(Y/N): No, it's no big deal. I'll-

Soi-Fon: When's the next day you'll be free.

(Y/N): Huh? Oh... I guess Saturday...

Soi-Fon: Then let's go on another date then.

(Y/N): Huh? Really?

Soi-Fon: You said you wanted to take me out as a reward for learning Shunko, right?

(Y/N): I mean, I did but I didn't think you'd actually agree to it. Besides, you kicked me out right after.

Soi-Fon: I didn't say I wouldn't do it, now did I?

(Y/N): I guess not. Saturday it is then.

Soi-Fon: I won't forgive you if you forget. Be at the barracks as soon as you're free. It's a movie date.

(Y/N): I won't miss it for the world.

And with that, (Y/N) and Soi-Fon finally sealed the deal.

To be continued.

This was a long time coming.