what hunger taught us

When Rukia got into the Academy, it took her a while to come to terms with food whenever she wanted it, as much as she wanted. Too many years of hunger had left their mark on her, skin and bone.

Of course, a Kuchiki would not be that way. One more thing a Kuchiki would not be.

Renji called her Kuchiki-san now.

They only met in public. Like now. At this polite occasion, with orbiting guests and tables covered with untasted delicacies.

She saw Renji's hand twitch, reaching for the food before he could catch himself, and was obscurely comforted.

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