AN: Bad author. Bad. Bad. Somebody spank me.
Lol. I couldn't resist! This has been sitting in my folders for a long while and I decided to knock out a little editing and post this up. Sigh. I really need to be concentrating on my other stories -and I am. I promise! I hope people like this sort of thing. Well, anyway. Without further ado..
Chapter 1
"I would drink his bath water."
Inuyasha furrowed his eyebrows before sending his friend a look. The dark haired youkai paused in lifting the chip to his lips. "What?"
Inuyasha shook his head before turning back to the T.V. screen. He watched the black haired hanyou walk down the walkway, reddish brown eyes staring dead at the camera in front of him. The hanyou smiled, his white teeth on full display as he posed. He stuck his hands into the pockets of his form fitting gray jeans, drawing attention to the chiseled v line that led downwards. His hard abdomen apparent with his unbuttoned black long sleeved shirt. He winked at the camera before turning back down the walkway, a swagger to his walk.
"He's just so fine." Inuyasha saw the bat youkai beside him fan himself in a dramatic fashion, shaking his head. "He could get it."
The hanyou chuckled, reaching over to grab a chip from the bowl in his friends lap and popping it in his mouth. He turned to the sandy haired youkai who sat in front of couch to his left. The fox was watching the television with rapt attention. Inuyasha turned to the screen seeing another dark haired male make his way down the long aisle. He was completely bare up top except for a black necklace that hung down his chest, a silver cross at its end. His chiseled stomach lightly glistening under the bright lights. The blue jeans hung low on his hips, teasing the onlookers with what lay underneath. The wolf demon placed a hand to the back of his neck and sent the camera a sexy, playful grin. His icy blue eyes holding a mischievous look.
The hanyou noticed his friend's claws dig into the flooring's carpet on either side of him. He grinned to himself at seeing that.
Inuyasha's attention was pulled away from the fox as he noticed a head of silver white locks from the corner of his eye. A portion of his head covered by the black, fitted fedora hat. Excitement welled up inside him at seeing the gold eyed demon. He took in the unbuttoned white long sleeved top. Black jeans hung low on his narrow hips, showing the hard milky skin that rest there. Deep red-purplish markings wrapped around underneath the demon's eyes, drawing attention to his high, strong cheekbones. His eyelids hung low over his eyes, the crimson on the lids giving him an uncaring, laid back sensual look. Each of his hands rested on either side of the dark tie that hung down in front him from around the back of his neck. He gave the camera a serious yet enticing look before turning back down the aisle, silver hair swaying lightly behind him as he made his exit.
Inuyasha watched him go, hating when he disappeared behind the large dividers.
The feminine voice of the fashion show's broadcaster came on then, "Sacred Tree's Winter Fashion Show."
Inuyasha slumped back into the couches cushion, watching the models as they walked back onto the aisle. They walked onto the walkway, all smiles and waves for the audience.
"They were so good."
Inuyasha nodded his agreement at the fox's words. "This show was better than last years."
"It's like they get hotter over the years. Especially Naraku. I wanna run my fingers through his hair."
They laughed at the dreamy sigh that escaped the black haired bat demon. "Miroku, you and Naraku's hair are practically identical." Inuyasha pointed out.
Miroku shook his head. "It's not the same. You and Sesshomaru kinda have the same hair type. Wouldn't you want to feel his despite it being similar to your own?"
Inuyasha gracefully bowed out. "Good point."
"Guys, look."
Inuyasha and Miroku looked back to the television at their friend's words. Inuyasha leaned forward as he watched the famous models Sesshomaru, Naraku, and Koga laugh, their arms encircled around one another in a line across the screen. The screen's frame switched to Koga in a front of a white background alone. "We will forever be grateful for the experience to be before you guys. If it wasn't for the fans, we wouldn't be able to do what it is that we do. The people supporting us make all this possible. Thank you." The wolf smiled a sincere smile, no hint of the more playful grins he was known to give at the end of the walkway.
Naraku appeared on the next frame. His dark red eyes serious. "I've had the pleasure of being able to walk for a famous brand in front of millions of people. What greater place to do that than in Paris. Their are no words to describe what being here has done for me. I've had the opportunity to meet and work with some amazing people. I've made some great friendships that I wouldn't trade for the world. Thank you doesn't begin to cover how grateful I am that I'm able to live this life. Thank you for the love. The prayers and the support. We do it for you guys." He nodded before the screen transitioned to Sesshomaru.
"Being here is an experience not many will achieve in their lives. Me being blessed enough to be here for the second year in a row tells me I'm on the right track in life. The fans. My family. Friends. They're the reasons I give everything in me to prove my worth. You guys are the reason I'm able to walk down a runway for a brand like Sacred Tree. Without you their is no me. Your support means everything to me. Being in this industry can be a challenge at times. There's always someone who wants that spot just as much as you do. I never take for granted the place I'm in. This journey has been so fulfilling. Thank you to the fans. Thank you Sacred Tree for the opportunity. Thank you to some very important people in my life who encouraged me to go after my dreams. I hope to continue to make you proud of me." The demon raised his hands in the universal gesture for prayer to his lips before raising his clasped hands toward the ceiling.
The screen went back to the three of them together, smiles on their faces.
"So what's in the cards for you guys now that Sacred Tree's winter show is over? Anything you can tell us?" A woman's voice asked the trio from offscreen.
The two dark haired demon's turned to their right, eyes locked onto the silver haired demon. Sesshomaru took on an amused expression before turning back to the mystery person off screen. "Guess I'm answering this one. Tama is starting up an important campaign, partnering up with Sacred Tree. I can't say much else right now, but we're all excited about it. Definitely stay up to date with us. Your not gonna wanna miss what we have in the works."
The screen switched to an overview of a dark sky, bright lights down below. The city of Paris. The show ended and Inuyasha turned the T.V. off.
"Important campaign. What do you think that means?"
Inuyasha turned to the fox. "No idea Shippo. We'll just have to wait and see."
They turned as Miroku placed the empty bowl onto the coffee table before them and stood up from his seat on the couch. "I saw what I wanted to see. I'm going to bed. I've got an early class. Night guys."
"Night." They called after him. Shippo hid a yawn behind his hand.
"I need to get some sleep too. Goodnight." He got up from his spot on the floor and disappeared down the hall.
Inuyasha sat alone on the couch. He should be headed to bed but the silver haired demon's words played through his mind. It was hard imaging anyone who looked like that having to work hard at something. People often glamorized the life of models that it was hard to remember at times they had feelings just like everyone else. They had their own struggles and stories like any other. Things that even money couldn't make disappear.
The hanyou got up and headed down the hall, following his friend's example. There was no point in wondering about someone else's life story. They were in two completely different worlds.
Inuyasha shut his book closed. He looked to the clock, seeing it was eleven p.m. He rubbed at his eyes, hoping to get rid of the heavy feeling that rested there. He'd been buried in books and work lately. It was getting harder to juggle working at the bar and finding the proper time to study. He yawned and got up from the desk, heading to the kitchen to grab something to eat. He grabbed a box of crackers down from the refrigerator before opening the refrigerator door. He grabbed a can of soda and a package of sliced salami. He closed the door back and made his way into the living room. He flopped onto the couch before reaching for the remote off the coffee table. He turned the television on, settling on a random action flick.
An hour later the door to the apartment opened, revealing his two roommates. He picked up the remote and turned down the volume before turning to the two demons. "Hey. How was it today?"
"Brutal." Miroku groaned while removing his jacket. "It's always so busy on Fridays."
"Your lucky you didn't have to work today." Shippo told him while taking up a seat on the other end of the couch. "What are you doing up anyway?"
"Had to work on an assignment I need to turn in Monday. Work had me behind this week. I'm just now getting a chance to finish it."
"Damn. That reminds me. I still haven't started on my paper." Miroku sighed. "Forget it. It can wait until Sunday."
"These past few months have been so tough." Shippo slumped into the couch. "I need a vacation."
Inuyasha made a sound in his throat. He could definitely relate.
"Maybe we should go out later. Hit up a club or something." The dark haired demon suggested.
"Can't." Inuyasha told him. "I can't be partying so close to the end of the semester. Not with exams being so close. Maybe once we're on break."
"Fine. We can still find something to do." Miroku began walking down the hall. "I'm gonna take a shower."
Inuyasha and Shippo watched the television in silence. When a pause came in the form of a commercial Inuyasha turned to Shippo with a grin. "Masao came by today. Things must be getting serious between you two."
The fox furrowed his brows. "What. What'd he do?"
The hanyou shrugged. "He just asked to see you. I didn't know you told him where we lived."
Shippo sighed. "I didn't. He must've followed me home from the bar."
Inuyasha raised a brow. "That's creepy."
Shippo shook his head with a roll of his eyes. "Tell me about it. He's the reason I don't go out on dates with guys from the bar now."
"You never said anything. I thought things were good between you two."
"They were, but I knew something wasn't right when he tried getting serious too fast. I told him I didn't see us going anywhere and cut it off. I guess he feels differently because he still hasn't given up yet."
'You could've told us. What if he'd did something to you? We wouldn't have even known who did it."
"I can look out for myself ya know." The fox said with a smile to let the hanyou know he didn't mean to be harsh. "You guys always try to protect me from everything. I didn't want to worry you guys over nothing."
"Your safety is not nothing. It's what friends do Shippo."
Inuyasha turned to the screen though not really seeing it. He felt the couch shift and Shippo sat directly beside him. "I'm sorry okay. I guess I should've said something. Masao never tried to do anything to me. He's just persistent. I thought he'd give up and it'd die down. But your right. Better to be safe than sorry. Forgive me?"
Inuyasha pursed his lips, making a show of thinking over forgiving the fox. "I guess I'll forgive you.. this time." He smiled. "Seriously. If he gets out of line, you gotta let one of us know. We just want you safe. Wouldn't you want us to do the same if we were in your position?"
Shippo nodded. "I just didn't want you to worry but I'll let you know if anything happens. Promise."
Inuyasha opened his mouth but was startled at the scream he heard come from the back of the apartment. He got up and ran down the hall, feeling Shippo right behind him. He pushed open the door to Miroku's room. He saw the demon standing before his dresser in nothing but a towel around his waist, face staring at the screen on his cellphone. Inuyasha looked around, seeing nothing out of the ordinary.
"What the hell Miroku."
The demon looked up towards them, obviously just now noticing them standing in his doorway. "Sorry Shippo. I didn't know I was that loud."
Inuyasha walked further into the room. "What has you so excited anyway?" The hanyou asked him.
Miroku came towards him, grin taking over his face. Inuyasha blinked at the bright light that was suddenly shoved in his face. He reached up and took the cell from his friend's hand. He felt Shippo move to look over his shoulder.
-Think you have what it takes to join our team? We're looking for young, attractive aspiring models to star in our next big campaign with the popular clothing brand Sacred Tree. You'll have the opportunity to work closely with our top, well known models. Sesshomaru Nakajima, Naraku Oonishi, and Koga Wolfe. One year of seeing what it's like to be a model for Tama. We're interested in hearing from you. See you on set!"-
The rest of the page consisted of requirements needed to be considered a candidate. Inuyasha looked up at Miroku with wide eyes, the dark haired boy nodding his head with a smile on his lips.
"Can you believe it? This is.. amazing. A chance to not only meet, but work with the top faces at Tama."
"Your going for it?" Shippo asked Miroku, the disbelief clear in his voice.
"No," Miroku drawled. "We're going for it."
Inuyasha choked. "Are you crazy? I'm not doing this. Watching is one thing, but trying to do what they do is something else entirely." He handed the phone back to Miroku.
"I can't do it alone." Miroku whined. "We can do this. We meet all the requirements. Why not give it a shot?"
"How about because we have absolutely no experience." Shippo told him.
"They never mentioned anything about having experience." Miroku waved the phone into the air. "All we have to do is show up and look pretty. How hard can that be?"
"We have school. Work, Miroku." Inuyasha reminded him.
"Guys. This is the answer to our problems." The demon exclaimed. "Do you know how much we would make if we got picked? We could quit working at Shikon. We'd be able to pay off our tuition and loans. This could open up so many doors for us. We can not pass this up."
"This is insane. Do you know how many people are gonna show up in hopes to be picked for this? We'd never get chosen anyway."
Miroku looked to Shippo. "You don't know that. If that is the case, at least we tried. It doesn't hurt to at least go and see what happens."
"Your serious." Inuyasha stared at him.
"I'm gonna go for it." Miroku told them. "I know it's crazy but I've got to at least try. I hope you guys at least think it over." He went to his dresser and pulled out a large black T-shirt. He threw it over his head, it coming at a stop to his mid thigh. He removed the towel, throwing it into a corner of the room. He turned to them. "It's next Saturday. It's better if you turn in your information as soon as possible."
"I-I wish you luck. You know I'll go to support you. I don't think I'll be signing up." Shippo told his friend.
Miroku smiled. "Thanks Shippo. Who knows. Maybe you'll change your mind." He turned to the hanyou as the fox left the room. "What about you? Tell me you'll at least think about it." His voice pleading.
Inuyasha hesitated. Miroku made some good points. If for some reason they actually got chosen to be apart of Tama's campaign, he'd be able to live a lot more comfortably. He'd be able to pay off the loans he owed his university and various other bills. Like the demon said, something like this could pave the way for something else to come along. It really wouldn't hurt to try. There was no harm in showing up and seeing how things played out. If he didn't get picked, he wouldn't be any worse for wear. He'd just be in the same situation he was in now. If someone actually saw something in him to take a chance on him.. Who knew what all that could bring for him.
"I'll.. think about it." Inuyasha said.
Miroku bit his lip, the grin still apparent on his face. He looked far too pleased despite the hanyou's vague answer.
"That's all I can ask. Just imagine it, working close with Sesshomaru. Don't tell me that wouldn't be a dream come true for you." He teased before flopping back onto his bed, phone in his face.
"Yeah. Like you possibly getting a chance to get cozy with Naraku doesn't factor into you wanting to do this." Inuyasha raised an eyebrow.
"Never said it didn't." Miroku looked to him. "Though I am looking at the bigger picture here. Getting to work with a hottie like Naraku would just be a bonus."
Inuyasha shook his head. "Goodnight Miroku."
He ignored the laughter at his back and headed to his own bedroom. It came to him then. This must be the campaign the silver haired demon had teased the world with at the end of the winter show all those months back. It had completely left the hanyou's mind as regular everyday life occupied his time. Now, he was contemplating actually giving it a shot.
He turned to the body length mirror that hung on the back of his door. People had always told him they thought him attractive. He'd never had problems finding or getting a date if need be. Did that translate into the world of modeling? Being a model left you at the mercy of the people watching. Important people judged whether or not if you had the looks. What it took to be a part of their world. He didn't know if he had that.
He sighed, turning away from his reflection. He crawled into his bed, images of flashing lights filling his mind until sleep took him.
..
The following days went by normally enough. School. Work. Trying to find the energy to juggle the two. He sighed as he filled a small glass with clear liquid, the strong smell of the tequila hitting his nose. He served it over to the dark haired stranger, the man immediately throwing the shot back once it was in his possession. He stretched his hand back over the bar top. "Gimme another." He grumbled.
Inuyasha shook his head and reached for the glass. He poured the alcohol into the glass before once again sliding it back over. The man downed the liquor, turning slightly clouded brown eyes onto the small television that hung over the bar. "Ya know. Your jus' as pretty as those models on T.V." Inuyasha looked at him in confusion before turning around to stare at the screen. It was an attractive ebony haired man on top of dark haired woman. The human's nose running along the woman's neck as she tipped her head back. It was a commercial on a new fragrance for women.
His attention was drawn back to the man at the hiccup that escaped him. He looked down, seeing the man's hand outstretched towards him, empty glass in his hand. "Pour me another."
Inuyasha took the glass, staring at the man in a new light. "You think I could be a model?"
"Sure. Why not?" The stranger mumbled. "Ya got the look for it."
Inuyasha nodded at his words. "Sorry sir but it's almost closing time. I think you've had enough anyway." He placed the bottle of tequila back into its place before going to clean out the shot glass.
The dark haired human sighed. "Guess that's my cue." He sighed before standing from his seat and slapping a few bills onto the bar top. He shrugged on his jacket. "See ya." He called as he made his exit from the bar.
"Night." Inuyasha called after him. He took the money and placed it into the register. He shut off the front lights and made his way to the back of the establishment towards the small office, letting his boss know he was heading out for the night. He bid the demon a goodnight and left the building.
He got into his car and pulled out of the bar's lot, joining in with the traffic for the ride home. He thought over the stranger's words. He'd thought he had the look one associated with a model. The hanyou had been thinking about the campaign and signing on to try. The human's words made him wonder if that was a clear indication he should go for it. He'd been doubting if he had what it took but now.. Maybe he actually stood a chance of being picked.
He pulled into his assigned parking space and quickly walked to the stairs that led to his apartment. He unlocked the door, seeing his friends sitting on the couch.
"Hey. Welcome home." Shippo spoke.
"How was work?" Miroku asked, a plate of food resting on his crossed legs.
"Interesting." Was all Inuyasha said. He moved closer to them. "It smells good in here. What is that?"
"Just some lasagna." Shippo shrugged. "There's some for you on the stove if you want it."
"Yeah. Thanks. I'm gonna take a shower real quick." He told them before heading to his room to strip out of his work uniform. He grabbed a pair of sweats and and white T-shirt before making his way out into the bathroom along the hallway. He ran the water in the shower before throwing his hair up into a ponytail. He climbed into the shower, letting out a groan at the hot water that beat down over his skin. It felt so nice after a busy day like today. He scrubbed at his skin, washing away the scents of the bar that clung to him. He got out, toweling off before throwing on his clothes. He made his way to the kitchen, making a plate of the lasagna. He grabbed a bottle of water form the refrigerator before going to join the two demons.
He sat, taking a bite of his food as he turned to look at the television's screen. "What is this?" He asked.
Shippo let out a sigh. "A movie I'm trying to watch but a certain someone won't let me." The fox gave a pointed look to the dark haired youkai beside him. He turned to Inuyasha at seeing his confusion. "He's been trying to change my mind about trying out for the campaign."
"Really?" Inuyasha asked him. "He hasn't even mentioned it to me since that night."
Miroku snorted. "That's because your a done deal." He provided, ignoring the look the hanyou gave him. "Our friend here is proving to be quiet stubborn."
The fox demon shrugged. "I just know it's not for me. Agencies like that don't look for people like me. They want tall, pretty people who can actually stand being in front of a camera."
"You never know that unless you try Shippo." Miroku argued. "You can't tell me you don't see the possibilities this could bring you if you were to actually get chosen. Not to mention a certain blue eyed hottie you'd get to see."
"I have thought about it. And I decided I won't do anything to embarrass Koga or the agency he works for. Or you guys for that matter. I'll still be there with you guys. I'll just be on the sidelines. You guys don't need me."
"Shippo," Inuyasha began. "You're just as capable of doing this as we are. If we can do it, you can too."
"So that means your gonna sign up? Your really gonna do it?" Miroku turned to him, cobalt eyes glittering with excitement.
Inuyasha raised an eyebrow at him. "I thought you knew I was a done deal?"
Miroku took on a sheepish smile. "Okay, I had a feeling. I figured you'd see things my way. So.. does this mean your gonna go for it?"
Inuyasha decided to put him out of his misery. "Yeah. I'm gonna do it." He said, acknowledging it to himself as well. "It really doesn't hurt to try."
Miroku let out an excited squeal that had the two laughing at his antics. "I'm so happy. Only thing that could be better was if Shippo said he was gonna sign up too." He blinked at the fox, trying to come across as innocent
Shippo shook his head. "Sorry. I'm not changing my mind. I'm happy for you two though." He said, getting up from his spot on the couch. "I'm going to bed."
"Fine." Miroku mock pouted. "Don't say I didn't try when me and Inuyasha become famous superstars."
"It's fine. I'll be there bumming off you two when you make it big." The fox informed him. "Night." He called over his shoulder, disappearing down the hall.
Miroku rolled his eyes and Inuyasha laughed.
"Well. I tried." The demon sighed before suddenly perking up. "Hey. Don't forget to send the agency your information. It's two days from now."
"I remember." He took a sip from his water bottle. "I'll make sure I do it before I go to bed."
They stayed up talking about the campaign for an hour or so before Inuyasha bid Miroku goodnight. He washed his plate and made his way to his bedroom. He grabbed his laptop and searched up the agency's website. He found the link that would send him to the page where he could forward his information to the modeling agency. He filled out all the necessary fields required for registration before submitting it. He stared at the short thank you message that appeared on the screen. He powered down the laptop before placing it onto the nightstand on the side of his bed. He laid down and went to sleep.
Saturday seemed to sneak up on him. He had spent the better part of Friday working on school work, a distraction he didn't mind for once. He was excited, but nervous. It felt like a child would feel the night before they were to attend a new school the next day.
Unlike a child however, he had no idea of what'd it is he'd be facing when walking into the well known modeling agency's building. Surprisingly, he didn't want to back out. He wanted to know. If he were to take this seriously, did he actually have a chance to make it in the industry. He knew all he had to do was show up to find out.
"You almost ready?"
Inuyasha turned at the sandy haired fox that poked his head into the bathroom. "Yeah. Almost." He turned back to his reflection. "Should I leave my hair down or pin it up?" He asked.
Shippo leaned against the doorway. "Hmm. Leave it down."
Inuyasha ran a brush through his long locks, a light sheen present that wasn't usually there. He sat the brush down on the counter and gave himself a quick once over. He deemed himself ready. He turned to Shippo.
"Alright. Now I'm ready. Where's Miroku?"
The walked from the bathroom and down the hall. Shippo went straight for the door and Inuyasha followed suit.
"He's waiting for us in the car."
Inuyasha waited as the fox locked the apartment behind them before making his way down the stairs. He walked to the white car in the parking space and opted for the backseat. He climbed in. Shippo got into the passenger seat and Miroku started up the car.
"You guys ready?" The dark haired youkai asked them.
Inuyasha nodded. "Yeah. Let's go."
..
"Well. This is it."
Inuyasha opened the car door and immediately stretched. They'd been driving for four hours almost nonstop. He covered his mouth with a yawn before turning to face the large building.
"Looks scary." Shippo said, closing the car door behind himself. Inuyasha made his way around to the driver's side, coming to stand beside Miroku. The demon's eyes were for the agency's building only.
"You ready?" Inuyasha asked him.
Miroku turned to glance at him before looking back, a grin stretching his pink lips. The demon walked off towards the building, Inuyasha watching him go. He turned to the fox and Shippo shrugged. The fox followed after Miroku and Inuyasha wasn't far behind.
Cool air rushed at him as the door parted at their entrance. He looked around the lobby, everything appearing fancy and shiny. He saw Miroku talking to the receptionist and saw the red haired woman point off to their right. He turned, seeing a trio of elevators off to the side.
He steered his feet in that direction. They waited in silence as the elevator came down to their floor. The metal doors parted and they walked in. Inuyasha saw Miroku push a button for the tenth floor. He let out a breath as they ascended. The elevator stopped and they stepped out, appearing in an empty hallway.
"The receptionist said room A3." Miroku told them, leading them to the left.
They spotted the white door and the muffled voices from within became apparent the closer they approached. The hanyou's stomach turned as Miroku pushed the door open. The large room was filled with demons and humans alike. All young. Eyes turned to look at the newcomers, assessing the newest form of competition. Inuyasha avoided their eyes, looking towards the large white background surrounded by lights, cameras and other important looking pieces of equipment. People surrounded the backdrop but didn't stray too close to the equipment.
"Here please." Inuyasha turned to the white haired male youkai that sat off to the side of the door. He hadn't noticed him when entering. He made his way over to the man. "Sign in here please. I also need to see your identification." His voice dronned on, sounding almost robotic as he instructed them.
Miroku and Inuyasha pulled out their I.D.s and placed them onto the table. The man picked them up before turning to Shippo. "You too sir."
Shippo made his way closer. "Oh. I'm not here to participate. I'm just here to watch."
"Only people here for the shoot are permitted to be in the room."
"What." Shippo cried, green eyes wide as he stared down at the demon. "Can't I just stand off somewhere in the back? I'll stay out of the way, I promise. You won't even know I'm here."
Inuyasha noticed the man's green eyes run over Shippo's body. He balled his hand into a fist, ready to lay the man out if he said anything out of line.
"I guess I can make an exception." The demon said dully. "Just stay quite and out of the way."
"Thank you." Shippo told him with a grin. He nodded at his friends before going to post up in front of a wall away from the rest of the crowd.
The man looked over their identification before handing them back over. "Listen out for your numbers being called." He handed each of them a small ticket, bold black numbers on the red paper like material. They thanked him before going to join in with the rest of the crowd. They stood off towards the back, a little ways back from everyone else. Inuyasha looked at some of the surrounding faces. They were all very attractive. Some more than others but all having the potential to have their face plastered across billboards and magazines.
"You look nervous." Miroku told him.
Inuyasha turned to look at him. "I don't see how your not nervous."
"I am," Miroku admitted. "but I don't plan on letting these people see me sweat. Even if your not sure of yourself, act like you are."
"How do you feel?" He asked Miroku.
"I've got a good feeling. Whether or not I get picked for this campaign is a different matter."
Everyone's attention turned to the door opening. Shouts of excitement and applause went up throughout the room. Inuyasha's heart started beating rapidly against his chest. He stared in amazement as the Sesshomaru Nakajima came walking into the room. He followed in after a black haired demoness that lead the way. His attention turned to the two dark haired youkai that came strolling in behind them. It was Koga Wolfe and Naraku Oonishi.
He moved off to the side to get a better look at the four, feeling Miroku right on his heels.
"Alright people, settle down." The cerise eyed demon began, her attention on the crowd. "Thank you for signing on to be a part of Tama's campaign. I'm Kagura Shiga. Head photographer for this campaign. I like to capture people's personalities. Which is what I want you to keep in mind when your up here. I should be able to get a sense of who you are just by looking through my lens. Which goes hand in hand with the themes we have in mind for our campaign. You'll each get fifteen shots so make them count. There are no do overs, second chances, retries. Whatever it is that you present to me today is what you'll be judged on." She smiled, her white teeth on full display. "Now. Don't be afraid to have fun with it. Just be you. There are no wrong or right ways to show expression. We wish you all the best of luck. Listen out for when your number's called."
She disappeared from Inuyasha's line of sight. As did the three demons who trailed behind her.
"What's your number?" Miroku asked him.
Inuyasha looked down at the ticket in his hand. "Ninety. You?"
"Eighty-nine."
"We have a long wait."
"This could be a good thing. This gives us a chance to see what we're up against. Try and get a feel for what she likes or doesn't like. We've got to get a better spot."
Miroku began maneuvering his way off to the far side of the crowd. Inuyasha followed after him. They looked on as a young auburn haired human made her way in front of the white backdrop. Hand up to her mouth as she bit her nails while awaiting instructions. Kagura was standing off a ways before her, surrounded by the models at her back.
"Hon. I know its nerve wracking but try keep your hand from your mouth. Now, see these fine men beside me?"
The girl nodded, a smile gracing her lips as her eyes shifted between the three demons.
"You get to pick which one you would like to be in your shots with you." Kagura informed her. "Anyone you want. Choose."
Her eyes widened but almost immediately landed on the silver haired demon. Kagura grinned. "Good choice." She turned to Sesshomaru. "Ready when you are."
Inuyasha watched as Sesshomaru looked into the photographer's eyes with a look he couldn't quite place. He broke away, making his way to the human girl. He could see her trembling as the demon stood directly beside her. He bent his head down, seemingly whispering into her ear. She nodded before turning towards Kagura.
"Ready dear?" The photographer asked her, lifting the black camera into her hands that hung from around her neck. The human took a visible breath before nodding. "Remember, fifteen shots."
Inuyasha watched her as she wrapped her arms Sesshomaru's slim waist. Sesshomaru looked down at her, placing a hand under her chin to tilt her head up towards him. Flashes from the camera showered over the two. The set had grown quiet, only the sound of the camera heard as everyone became enraptured with the scene before them. The girl brought a hand up to Sesshomaru's face, fingers barely brushing over his pale skin. Sesshomaru brought his hand up, placing his over hers. The human tilted her head back, eyes closed in what appeared to be ecstasy as shots captured the moment.
"Thank you." Kagura removed the camera from her face. "If your chosen for the campaign, the agency will contact you."
The young girl blinked her eyes open as if coming out of a daze. Sesshomaru released her before making his way back beside Kagura. The girl thanked them before making her exit from the room.
Kagura whispered something to Sesshomaru before turning to the crowd. "Number two." She called out.
Inuyasha took in the way the models adapted to the poses the people struck up. The models in tune to their bodies wants. They responded with an ease that could only be achieved through experience. The synchronization was fluent. As if it were a dance they knew like the back of their hand.
"Number eighty- five."
Inuyasha looked around, noting the crowd was gradually thinning out. Having been so enraptured by the people on the set before him. Butterflies returned to him as his number was steadily approached.
He turned to the demon beside him. Miroku had been quiet since the first shot had taken place. Inuyasha knew he was observing. "Your almost up."
Miroku looked to him as if coming out of a deep reverie. "Yeah." Was all he said, already going back to watching the dark haired demon partnered up with Koga.
Inuyasha let him be, not wanting to be a distraction. They watched the next few sets before Miroku'a number was called out. Inuyasha bit his lip.
"Good luck." He whispered at Miroku's retreating back. Miroku sent a grin over his shoulder as he headed for the backdrop.
"Who do you want to partner up with?" Kagura asked him.
Miroku lifted his hand to point directly at Naraku. "I'll take him."
Kagura sent an amused look Naraku's way. Naraku let a small smile grace his lips as he made his way beside the shorter dark haired youkai. Miroku positioned himself behind Naraku, facing sideways from the camera's view. He grinned at Kagura. "Ready."
Kagura nodded, lifting the camera to her face once more. Miroku's face turned serious, his gaze intense as he stayed locked onto the camera. His arm wrapped under Naraku's shoulder blade, hand clutching the dark material of the demon's sleeve in what came across as a possessive hold. Naraku's hands were in his front pockets as he tlited his head upwards.
Miroku repositioned them with the demon now facing him. He drew Naraku's arms around his waist, hands going to his arms as he stared up to meet the demon's gaze in an unrelenting stare, his chin lifted towards him with a defiant tilt. A few shots went off before Miroku suddenly stood up on his toes, eyes now level with Naraku's red brown ones. He placed his index finger under the other's chin, a grin on his lips as he stared at him, mischief clear in his gaze.
"That's fifteen." Kagura announced. "Thank you. We'll be in touch with you if your selected to be in the campaign."
Inuyasha saw his friend's lips move as he gazed up at Naraku. He turned and headed towards the back wall to stand beside Shippo.
"Number ninety."
Inuyasha felt everyone's eyes on him as he made his way to stand before the camera. His clasped his hands together in front him to hide the slight trembling.
"Who do want you want as your partner?" Kagura eyed him.
His eyes drifted over to the silver haired demon's who's eyes bored down at him. Kagura made a gesture with her hand towards the hanyou and Sesshomaru made his way over to him. He bit his lip at the heat that came from Sesshomaru, covering his left side.
"Fifteen shots." Kagura reminded him.
Inuyasha nodded before turning to stare up into golden eyes. He grabbed the demon's hand's before placing them onto the back of his neck. Sesshomaru's thumbs fingered his jaw as he stared down at him. Inuyasha placed a hand up onto the demon's wrist, feeling himself being pulled into the other's gaze.
He then took one of Sesshomaru's hands away, placing it onto his waist. He felt the tight grip on his hip as Sesshomaru pulled their lower halves closer, just barely grazing up against one another. Inuyasha's mouth slightly parted at the sensation and the demon brought his other hand up to run his thumb under the hanyou's bottom lip. He resisted the urge flick his tongue out to taste the other's skin.
Inuyasha broke free and turned around completely in the demon's arms, his back meeting up against the hard chest. He felt the demon lean down to place his face into the part where his shoulder joined his neck before arms came around to encircle his waist completely. He raised an arm up behind him to cup around Sesshomaru's neck, staring at the camera before them with a raise to his chin.
Kagura's face reappeared from behind her camera with a grin. "That's fifteen. If your picked, we'll be in touch."
Inuyasha put his arm down and felt Sesshomaru move away from him. He mumbled a 'thank you' as he passed by them, headed over to join his friends. He was almost there when he heard the photographer's voice from behind him.
"Hey you. Get over here."
Inuyasha turned to his head to her, but her eyes were locked onto something past him. He turned, seeing Miroku and Shippo staring at the demoness. She sighed at seeing them unmoving. She raised her hand, flexing her index finger. "You. The fox. Come over here."
Shippo looked at her with a deer in headlights expression. He moved away from the wall before making his way over before Kagura. The demoness looked towards a sheet of paper that lay on a nearby table with a shake of her head. "I don't know why your number didn't show up on the list. Get over there by the backdrop and we'll knock out your fifteen shots."
Shippo raised a hand to the back of his neck, an apologetic look crossing his features. "I'm not here to model actually. I just came to support my friends." He gestured towards the two demons standing back by the wall.
Kagura tilted her head, hefting her camera up into one hand. "Your not here to join the campaign. You shouldn't be on my set."
Shippo ducked his head. "I know and I apologize. I just really wanted to be here for them."
"Why don't you wanna try for a spot?" She asked him.
"I'm not what you guys are looking for." He told her. "Modeling is not in the cards for me."
"Heh. Let me be the judge of that." She looked over the fox before turning towards the wolf demon. "I want him with you for this one Koga." She turned back to Shippo.
"Go stand over against the backdrop."
Shippo opened his mouth to argue but closed his mouth at the raised eyebrow she sent his way. He made his way towards the blue eyed demon, looking anywhere but at him. "Face him." She directed the fox with a wave of her hand before lifting the camera up before her face.
Shippo turned to Koga, looking up to see the wolf sporting a grin. Koga reached down, taking one of the fox's hands in his own before bringing it up to his lips, the barest of touches felt there. Koga pulled him closer by his waist before reaching down to place his hands behind the fox's knees. Shippo quickly brought his arms up around the wolf's neck as he was suddenly hefted up into the air. Koga guided his legs around his waist and Shippo stared up at him with wide eyes. Shippo's hand hesitated before reaching around to place his hand onto the back of the wolf's head. He brought his own closer, their foreheads meeting as they stared into the other's eyes.
Koga placed him down but quickly took Shippo's hand and placed it on his shoulder. Koga leaned down over the fox, his body seeming to dwarf the fox's much smaller frame. Shippo's eyes locked onto the demon's mouth as Koga grinned.
Koga raised Shippo's chin and the fox stared up at him, appearing to be completely at his mercy.
"That's fifteen." Kagura announced in a voice that didn't bother hiding the pleasure in her tone. Shippo backed away from the wolf, nodding at him before turning to face the demoness.
"You may go now." She told him with a wave of her camera. "Leave your information with the receptionist on your way out."
Inuyasha watched as Shippo made his way over to the door. They followed after him and made their way to the elevator in silence.
Inuyasha exchanged a glance with the dark haired bat once they entered the metal contraption. He knew the demon was just as worried at he was.
"Shippo?" The hanyou called out softly.
The fox blinked before turning to look at him with unseeing eyes. It was as if he were in a daze. "Hm?"
"Shippo. You don't have to do anything you don't wanna do." Miroku began. "I know I practically begged you to sign up but you don't need to turn in your contact information. We can just keep walking out the building."
"Yeah." Inuyasha nodded. "It doesn't matter that she took those pictures. You still don't have to-"
Inuyasha paused at the almost silent chuckle that left the fox. He was taken aback by the amused expression he saw in those green eyes.
"You guys act as if I just had a traumatic experience." Shippo laughed, turning to the elevator's closed doors. "Relax. I'm fine. Really."
Inuyasha took on a hesitant look. "We know you said you didn't wanna join the campaign. She took those pictures of you and.."
"And it happened anyway." Shippo provided for him with a shrug. "It wasn't what I planned on doing but it honestly wasn't that bad. The chances of them actually picking me are slim so it's not really anything to worry over."
"But you looked upset." Miroku said.
Shippo shook his head. "No. I just felt.. out of sorts. I mean, I just met Koga Wolfe." He gushed with a grin, happiness entering his voice for the first time. "He picked me up in his arms and all that muscle.. whew. It was amazing."
Inuyasha smiled, relief spreading through him. He'd figure the fox would be more upset at having been made to take the shots despite his wishes. If Shippo found some joy from being on the set with the well known model, he was happy for him.
They exited the elevators to the lobby, waiting as Shippo gave the receptionist his information like Kagura had instructed him to do. The three demons left the agency's building, talking about what it felt like to be in the arms of the demon's they each held a liking for.
The ride home eventually fell silent, Inuyasha looking out the back window as he thought over his own shoot. Their had been so many attractive people there and a lot of them had done so well, as if they were born to be in front of the camera. Either way, he'd done it. Inuyasha had tried like so many others today. If he didn't hear from the agency, that would be his first and last try at modeling. He would have his answer.
AN: Yes, I am aware Miroku isn't actually a demon.
Hmm.. anyone care to take a shot at guessing Shippo's, Inuyasha's, and Miroku's photo shoot themes?
I think this chapter came out OK but it doesn't matter what I think. What'd you think?
Til next time. :*