They've now worked to an awkward place. Undoubtedly and unarguably awkward. Both of them seem to be operating on a rhythm, spending the majority of their time focusing on the food, but occasionally glancing their way, and on a strange enough cadence that their views meet now and again. And while Rukia could simply take his words at face value, there's never been anything in life easier for throwing aside an awkward pause than humor, so she tries her best to reach for it.

And, as often happens between the two of them, this time it comes at Ichigo's expense.

"What," she says, a little louder than she might normally, lifting her chin in an almost overly confident stance. One which might be more effective, were the corner of her lips not speckled with crumbs and frosting. "Does that mean that you want me to be this sweet to you?"