door Ichigo would get it for Orihime . following her inside , quiet but .. he likes it .

“ tell me what’s first ? making the batter or showing me those cookies …?”

began to turn the color of his name sake .

“ … no one is sweeter than you , ya know .” Ichigo murmured as he gave her hand an affectionate squeeze. “ let’s get inside and get started , yeah ? you’ll be my mentor , inoue - sensei . “

Ichigo teased — as they appeared the

—>

the man was about to open his mouth — when he felt her soft lips against his cheek . Ichigo’s whiskey hues widened in clear surprise .

though not that he minded it — as her lips felt … welcoming on his skin.

“ I — ah … inoue - san .” speechless — as his face

—>

( grumbling , running the back of his neck sheepishly .)

still — without you , I’m not sure where I would be . having you at my side … it’s uplifting.

and , you’ve became a wonderful … beautiful woman .

( his cheeks darkened , chuckling softly . Bold of him now .)

began to heat up . )

sounds like you’re trying domesticate me .

( he teased lightly , turning his gaze towards Orihime — taking in her visage — those eyes . )

thanks , inoue - san . have to be , to protect you — and everyone else of course .

—>

you do . hell , i wish i had your determination sometimes . you don't give up .

i like that .

besides i would be done my studies at that point . no reason for both of us to be eating alone .

you would make it less lonely .

( soon a gentle chuckle pass his lips . )

that i can believe , you work hard on everything

+

Street side of the sidewalk while Orihime could be safer from the street .)

might as well make it an all day thing , yeah ? we can get dinner too — if you want , inoue - san .