Ichigo looked at the floor, unsure what to say to that. Because Shiro's idea of 'learning' was not his, and he couldn't afford to second guess himself. Not anymore.

I'll protect everyone. That's what I choose. But I also choose to love YOU, to love Rukia. Nothing, and no one will change that. Even if you think I'm wrong - even if you hate me for it.

I won't leave anyone behind.

"Just come back to bed. You can hit me, or yell at me, or hurt me however you want. But just...come on."

Just don't hurt me this way. I don't know how to handle this kind of hurt. I don't know how to be different, because I can't give up, and my heart won't let me pretend I don't need you, either.