Rukia had taken her time getting clean, and the nurses had spent some time fussing over her and bandaging her ribs and hand. So by the time she was finished in the showers it was about time to head to her room for dinner. She was more than happy to do so, having had group therapy during lunch.

When the young nurse asked her if she preferred salad or soup, Rukia opted for soup; it was a comfort food, and she needed that right now. Mustering up a sweet smile, she bid the nurse good night, and waited quietly until the woman left.

Brushing her hair back away from her face, Rukia double-checked that Renji's katana was still where she'd left it, then sat down to eat. The steak smelled good, as did the soup, so she dug in.