I had time to write! I'm doing so much fun stuff and Japan is great! I'll be adding pictures this week to my blog and talking about upcoming projects. I AM LOVING LIFE SSSSOOOO MUCH RIGHT NOW! Unfortunately, the whole YOUTUBE thing may not happen because its hard to write, event plan, film, edit, all in the same breath. But here is the next chapter. I'm working on the next few chapters as I only have a day to myself before the madness happens again!
Hope you enjoy!
Review, Fav, and Follow for updates to this story. Looking for 3 -5 reviews as always.
Also check my profile and blog for additional information.
Chapter 10 has been brought to you by...
Thank you Chapter 9 Reviewers!
the-clumsy-one – Here you go love! Thanks for the review.
Conflicted Soul – I'm not sure of the pairing yet. I just write it as I see fit.
NarukoSon – Thanks! I'm glad you enjoy the characters as much as I do.
Aiyami Sakura – LoL! I love messiness.
Yukihime88 – Oh…well my love, go eat some chocolate and watch a good movie to get out of your funk. Read this chapter and see if it helps.
Capt. Blue-Eyed Jane – I love your bunnies! Make them come out and play!
Demonic Blades – Yes I do have a title for my book. It's called "Glyphs". And thank you for the review. I hope you like this one.
moon-lit-Swann-at-midngit – Damnnnnn can we not whore out our characters. I do like character development and building relationships between everyone to understand dynamics and situational circumstances. Not all fanfic is straight smut…this is not a Danielle Steel novel. Lol
lolalove85 – Thank you love! Hope you enjoy this next chapter.
Cindy M – Maybe….we will see. Thanks for your awesome feedback.
MyInuYasha21 – Thank you so much my love. I do hope you enjoy this next chapter.
Questions – I don't know. Keep reading and find out.
Avacyns-mother – Thank you love. I enjoyed writing it!
Daisy31 – Thank you so much. I have so much to write about on the blog. I finally have two days to do so and I plan on really writing out everything.
Madam Fluffy – So many questions right! I love a good cliffy story.
wolfgirl09 – Here you go love! Yes this winter is weird and to make matters worse, its freezing here in Japan. And the walls are so thin! So I can hear and feel the wind sometimes. But all is well and I'm glad you are doing better!
EbonySapphire – I know right! I love cliffies and even when I write, I hate myself sometimes…is it possible to upset yourself from your own story?
Thank you to those that Followed since the Chapter 9 update!
ngrain2102
SkittlesKitty
victoria cullen34
LittleWhiteWolf13
Conflicted Soul
NarukoSon
vampiregurl180
Aiyami Sakura
Ice-Kitsune-317
LovSesshoumaru65
YYonder
strawberrycremee
TheBrokenSunrise
nikungfu
AvatheApache
moon-lit-Swann-at-midngit
Cindy M 19
Free Fallen Sky
Avyanna
MyInuYasha21
BlossomCutie
KKellehe
llulabelle
smallsa1
thegirl59
Thank you to those that favorited since chapter 9!
Bright Full Moon
victoria cullen34
LittleWhiteWolf13
NarukoSon
100004
inu-girl162
TheBrokenSunrise
moon-lit-Swann-at-midngit
Cindy M 19
Avyanna
MyInuYasha21
KKelleher
llulabelle
smallsa1
thegirl59
Chapter 10: Too Much Salt
"Well don't you look sexy!"
"Shut up, Miroku!" Kagome yelled snatching her phone out of the ex-priest's hands in mortification. She looked down at the shining screen of another article showing her somewhat reddened face holding a look of pure shock from the flash that went off on Shiori's camera phone that previous evening the picture was taken and spread all over the world on various social media formats. She quite frankly looked like a puffer fish with her mouth open looking into the camera while surrounded by a table of rich smiling faces. Izayoi held Rin in her arms beaming brightly with Lord Inutashio's arm draped protectively around the two. Inuyasha sat next to Shiori with a toothy grin while his sister smiled brightly leaning into the picture. Everyone in the photo was dressed beautifully and dazzling whereas she had on her black restaurant uniform and white lap apron that had stains from various ingredients and dishes that she prepped that night. Her hair was a mess and tied in a sloppy bun with fringes of hair falling around her face. They all looked like a big happy family except for Sesshomaru, who was dressed exceptionally pristine and held the facial expression of a stoic man as any other day. She huffed reminded that she needed to call Shiori again and this time go forward on her threat to strangle the young popular teen.
The lights were on shining down on all the empty clean surfaces that would be soon filled with chefs and waiters rushing around the complete orders. They were currently in the kitchen doing dinner prep while talking about the immediate repercussions of the now famed selfie that Shiori took at that moment a few nights before. The image Shiori uploaded to her social media accounts went viral creating much buzz about the Tashios and their connection with her. The phone to her restaurant was now a hotline as the media clamored to talk to her about her esteemed guests. A few came by to try to solicit information but they were immediately blocked by the cops that had come by to patrol. Confusion was everywhere as many were also trying to guess as to why the critic Sesshomaru Tashio would write such negative remarks about the Shikon but then eat there with the entire royal family afterwards. Regardless, it was great press for her establishment and now even more people than before were calling to make reservations at the restaurant loved by the famous royal family. Also, many were trying to get rid of the negative press they sent before and praise the restaurant to save face among their viewers and followers. People were once again showing up for their reservations and money was flowing better than before.
"You have to admit the Tashio name is very powerful." Sango spoke as she punched a big pile of dough like a professional boxer in a ring. Her white sleeves were rolled up to her elbows as she punched powerfully beating another batch of honey rolls into submission to be served that day. Flour was all over her apron and her hands but, she clearly enjoyed that task as it allowed her to let loose any pent up stress she may have head. She was enjoying her task while trying to ignore Miroku's flirty remarks here and there in the kitchen.
Kagome shoved her cellphone back in her uniform pocket and went back to her cutting board. "Well we are not out of trouble yet." She stated picking up a cleaver and pointing the sharp end towards them dangerously. "We need to make sure income flows steadily over the next few weeks to be sure that this mess blows over. Regardless if Shiori would have done this or not…this is that ungrateful egotistical bastard's fault." Kagome growled now using a cleaver to chop the hard vegetables.
She stopped and pointed the knife at Miroku who moved slightly out of the way of its deadly path. He considered abandoning his sauce on the stove just to get out of range of her fiery temper as well. "I make exceptional duck and no one ever says anything bad about my cooking." She stated as she went back to cutting the vegetables again. Her head then lifted up and she pointed it again at him causing him to sweat drop and hold his hands up in defense. "And who is he anyway other than a child that has been pacified his entire life?!" She was practically banging the knife harshly down onto the wooden chopping block until a strong hand stopped her.
"Cleavers are not meant to be used in such an abusive manner." Miroku stated taking the sharp knife out of her hand gently as she scowled at him trying to keep a grip on it. "And now you're obsessing." He muttered fighting to get it out of her strong grip.
"I am not!" Kagome yelled defensively letting go the knife and crossing her arms over her chest. "I just want to know what gives him to right to speak about a subject that he knows nothing about. Being a royal does not permit someone from acting like an ass! And furthermore it certainly doesn't classify you as a food expert."
"Wow Kagome. I've never heard you swear so much." Sango stated genuinely shocked and somewhat excited. Normally the Japanese woman was calm and very strict in how she carried herself even in private. She was so stunned her fist stilled in the dough, aborting the beating she was giving to the dough on the table. She paused before throwing another handful of flour down so that it wouldn't stick to the stainless steel table she was working on.
"Well I'm just saying. What gives him the right! As if he knows anything about cooking." She stated going back to look for a cutting knife near her working station.
"Oh he knows a lot actually."
"Hm?" Both ladies stopped to look at him as Miroku smirked watching his own sauce on the stove and turning it down on low to simmer so that he could turn his attentions elsewhere.
"What are you talking about Miroku?"
Miroku sighed crossing his arms and shaking his head. "You ladies forget that before you came along I was actually very close friends with the Tashio men." He said sauntering over closer to Sango's table. She watched him closely moving her fist slowly before pounding into it so he would understand her message. "Well anyway…the big guy owns his own restaurants here in France and in other places around the world. He even owns one here near the Eiffel Tower."
"Just because you own something doesn't mean it's good." Kagome stated defensively going back to looking for a suitable knife. "You know what he probably thinks just that too. That he owns some property and that makes him a critic. That arrogant ass!" Kagome said pulling a knife that she liked and going back to stabbing the vegetables.
"Well why don't you go check it out." Miroku stated moving to his pot and grabbing a spoon. Both women looked at each other before looking at him watching as he nonchalantly dipped his spoon in the sauce. His lips pursed tasting it before shaking his head in horror and going for the seasonings.
"What?" Both ladies said pausing in their work again while watching Miroku toss thyme and pepper inside of his simmering pot. His hands went to work opening up bottles of liquid and grabbing fresh ingredients like a mad scientist throwing it all in the pot to blend together.
"See for yourself." He stated dusting his hands off on his apron and stirring the sauce slowly with care while whispering French love poems to it coaxingly. He banged the spoon on the edge of the pot before setting his spoon down carefully away from the stove. He turned to see the women look at him skeptically. "Well go check it out. See for yourself if the man is worth his salt." He said waving his hand in the air. "It's the only way you Kagome will give up on this whole hate thing you have against him. I mean really, it all worked on for your betterment and you even won the spoils." He said before turning to grab another spoon to taste his sauce. He spoke something exciting and kissed his the spoon before setting it aside.
"I don't hate him!" Kagome yelled slamming her knife into the grain of the wood. "I just don't like it that everyone hangs on the word of a spoiled brat that probably doesn't know how to even hold a spoon because he's so use to having someone do it for him." She quipped.
"Well go see." Miroku stated. "Here I'll take you on date there so it won't feel awkward for you." He stated wiggling his eyebrows.
"That's the most stupid-." Kagome muttered looking at him in disbelief.
"-That's brilliant." Sango stated cutting her off. "The monk has a point." Sango thought coming to a stop while thinking of the situation. "We teach the younger slayers to research and learn everything about the opponent first before going into battle with demons. Know thy enemy." She stated nonchalantly before going back to beating her dough. "Maybe you should check it out. I think it would also be good to see what competition looks like as well. He may not cook but I'm sure with the money he has he would hire the best who can and we need to always stay ahead of the curve." Sango stated strategically thinking.
Kagome gave them both an annoyed look before rolling her eyes. "No. Besides, I can't! At what time do you suppose I go….I have a restaurant to run you know and a child to care for which takes up all my time and energy."
Miroku tapped his chin and nodded in agreement. He then snapped his fingers in the air and few French words came out of his mouth. "Why not tonight? Just for two hours during our light wave before the dinner rush surges." He resolved nodding at his own genius. His dark black hair fell in his face slightly before he rubbed it back with a strong hand.
"I don't want to be caught dead anywhere near that unbearable demon let alone his restaurant!" Kagome responded with a raised tone. "Besides if both of us go, who's going to watch my kitchen. I need my Sous Chef." She stated firmly speaking business from that perspective which Miroku agreed.
Miroku nodded. "You are right." He stated before walking over to Sango. She watched him get closer until he grabbed her by the shoulders affectionately. "Sango will go with you and I will stay here where I am needed. Parfait! You and Sango spend like an hour or so doing some light espionage of his place and then get out."
"Hey!" Sango stated glaring at him with her hands on her hips and pushing away from him slightly. "You can't just volunteer people like that! I have things to do too you know."
Miroku smiled and reached out again, grabbing her by the arms affectionately and massaging them. "Ah my dearest American. But you agree this would be good for our friend, no?" He asked using her words against her.
She looked to him untrustingly for a minute before shifting to look at Kagome in question. Miroku hummed happily before speaking again. "Would you please do me the honor of going with our beloved friend in her time of need to get over this thing which causes her so much stress?" He asked purposely thickening his accent.
Sango looked to him and rolled her eyes. She face palmed her cheek before nodding at Kagome. "I agree, this is good for you BUT!" she exclaimed looking at Miroku and pointing her finger in his chest. "We are not staying for long!" She poked him hard repeatedly emphasizing her words. "And you better make sure that every piece of bread reaches perfection because if I find out just one mishap, I'm going to rip into you." She threatened before going back to her dough and slamming her fist into it to prove her point of possible violent retaliation.
"Ah mon petite chou."Miroku stated reaching for her knuckles and kissing them affectionately.
Sango glared and took back her hand while rubbing them on her apron. "Yeah, yeah…" She stated trying desperately to keep down the major rosy blush threatening to color her cheeks and neck. She returned to her dough and began putting a little bit more effort into her punches which didn't go unnoticed by Miroku.
Miroku smirked while brushing his hands on his apron quickly out of habit. He reached into his pocket for his cellphone and hastily pulled it out. Kagome paused in her work to look up at him. He backed away and held the device to his ears with a broad smile. He looked like a pirate really with the one earring in his ear and the mischievous look on his face. "Hello?...Yes I would like to see if you have any openings tonight?" His heavy thick French language poured from his mouth as it tilted in a smirk of accomplishment.
Kagome heard him and rushed over. "Yes I would like to make a reservation for two." Miroku turned around to stop Kagome from taking his phone away. "Under the name Sango Williams at 6:00pm." Her hands reached over him and he dodged another one of her desperate attempts. "Perfect. Merci!" He finished before hanging up.
"What!" Kagome nearly screamed stomping her foot in anger. Her reiki rose a little bit out of anger. "Miroku!" She fumed stomping her foot down on the hard wooden floor.
"Lucky for you, you don't need a reservation for his restaurant. He accepts walk-ins." Miroku stated flicking her on the tip of her nose and going back to his sauce happily humming a tune. "Kagome do yourself a favor for once." He stated turning around to his sauce and smiling. "Indulge."
"I can't believe we are doing this." Kagome muttered behind the collar of her jacket that was pulled tightly around her face. Kagome and Sango walked inside the lavish building sitting on the Avenue de la Bourdonnais. Kagome was walking a few steps behind, using the tall slender Sango as her shield to avoid being noticed. Sango tried her best to control her humorous expression as Kagome concealed her face with big shades and pulled her magenta pea coat collar higher to hide the rest of her face as they stepped through the posh threshold of the infamous royal restaurant titled "Seiga" which apparently had been established well before she was a thought in her mother's head.
The place was literally near the greatest tourist areas of Paris and sat on the fourth floor of a rather glamorously decorated building. They thought Sesshomaru would own a separate building for his restaurant and it baffled them as to why he would share space in a building when he could afford his own establishment with the money he owned. The entrance to "Siega" however was very nice with dark heavy wood siding with carvings of majestic dogs in the design. In the middle of the small wooden space was a dark black lacquered podium in the center with oriental designs shining brightly from the soft lighting in the room. Large white orchids hung from the ceiling around the small waiting area giving it a woodland appeal that seemed to be steeped in nature. People sat all around on white love seats against the wall; waiting for their call to dine inside. There were two slightly opened doors behind the black lacquered podium revealing light from inside the restaurant.
"Good thing Miroku made a reservation." Sango stated flicking her long ponytail behind her slightly hitting Kagome in the face. Sango shoved a rather beautiful hand in the pocket of her black strappy jumpsuit while the other held her bright red clutch. Her black heels clicked on the shiny hard wood floors impatiently making her way to the demon host that smiled waiting to greet them.
His fanged smile was bright and his long blue hair was pulled in a tight ponytail His suit was superb and neatly pressed as he looked at Sango. "Good evening ladies. How many?"
"Two." Sango said shifting so he could see Kagome who was insistent upon using Sango's back as a shield from the eyes all around them. "We made a reservation for two under the name Sango Williams at six pm." Sango confirmed.
The host tried to see Kagome's face but she turned sideways and pushed her sunglasses higher on the bridge of her nose if possible. Her aura was hidden and her scent was suppressed as best as she could. It was in moments like this that she highly regretted not taking miko training on the shrine seriously like her older sister did growing up. The host looked down at his notes and smiled gently to the pair. He pressed a button against the podium and soon another demon came into the foyer and bowed to them respectfully. "Yes, please follow me ladies." He spoke with a very deep vibrato before turning and making his way through the beautiful restaurant.
They walked inside when a gasp came from Kagome's pink lips. Huge glass windows from floor to ceiling gave a view of the Eiffel Tower lit up in all its glory that evening among the darkening Parisian sky. They were as close as one could get to the famed attraction and the view was breathtaking. Her eyes looked around the restaurant noting the solid glossy wooden round bar in the middle of the room with plush cushioned white chairs and beautiful ladies dining at the front in glamorous dresses next to equally handsome men. Above them were soft lights built between what looked to be the original high beam ceiling. White lilies, magnolias, and orchids hung from various beams and other areas as décor creating a very classy elegant bar had a full wall of alcoholic beverages highlighted with soft golden up-lighting. Midnight blue, black, white and gold were his choice of colors in the restaurant and everything seemed rich and decadent. Contemporary lighting lit up the space where the booths sat. The tall booths were secluded areas with white seating everywhere. Many white love seats created squares around fire pits on blaze warming up the atmosphere and drawing people closer together. Beautiful cherry wood tables where covered in silk white linens. Kagome stared in awe feeling the warmth of the raging fires all around and the sexy environment. They followed their host to a table and sat down in a nice booth area.
The waiter humbly handed them their menus and explained the day's promotions. With a handsome smile he explained that he would give them a minute before he returned with their drinks. Sango smiled politely as he walked away before she scowled across the table at her date. "You're being ridiculous Kagome. Take off the jacket and sunglasses. You are actually drawing more attention to yourself."
"I don't want that prick and anyone to know that I'm here." She stated looking around cautiously but the sides of the booths were so high she couldn't see over them. Her eyes looked to see big dogs howling at the crescent moon engraved in the wood of the booths. Her fingers came up and rubbed them a little before falling at Sango's voice.
"Come on" Sango stated opening her menu. "Do what Miroku said…Indulge."
"This is not indulging. This is seeing what's so great about the prick that has everyone willing to pass his word around. And so far I'm not impressed." She stated in a pout looking away trying to avoid the beautiful view of the tower.
"Sure…" Sango dragged looking at her menu. "Because who wouldn't love to dine next to the EFFEIL TOWER and eat a 5 COURSE MEAL without a RESERVATION at a restaurant owned by one of the PRINCES of Japan and France!" She stressed looking at her menu.
Kagome opened her menu and skimmed it before deciding on something quick so that they could get out and not be seen. Her eyes scrolled until she noticed some menu items didn't have prices whereas others did. "Wow! Look at the prices. This is a car payment! Why do I get chewed out for my prices but he doesn't!" Kagome stated looking for something else to hold against the demon.
"Well it is next to the Eiffel Tower." Sango stated bluntly watching the heat rise up Kagome's cheeks. Sango laughed before reaching over and snatching the glasses off her face. "Take your stuff off! That's rude."
"No! What if someone recognizes me! I don't want to be seen here." Kagome stated covering the side of her face with her hands.
"Why? It could be a good look for us." Sango said smirking. "Come on…two chefs visiting each other's places. Showing support seemingly. It could be good." Kagome didn't look impressed. Sango sighed trying a different approach. "I highly doubt you will be recognized here. And also 'that said demon' you may be hiding from is not here but most likely with his fiancé or something. I mean it is only six pm." She stated looking at her wrist watch quickly. "Besides, I heard he doesn't even cook often." Sango stated looking at her menu again.
Kagome sighed dramatically before lowering her hands and slowly taking off her pea coat. What she wouldn't give but to be home, wrapped snuggly around Rin's body reading her a book with a cup of relaxing milk tea. She revealed a pretty simply powder blue dress underneath it that Sango said made her look like a grandma. The only saving grace was that her hair was curled and hung around her face. She reached for her napkin and placed it in her lap neatly ready to get the night over with.
"That's my girl!" Sango cheered before the waiter came back and took their drink orders. He gave them cold water with strawberries inside of it to start. The young demon then went over the menu one more time and left them to order. Conversation flowed and their glasses of wine came soon after along with an appetizer. Kagome could feel herself loosen up by the time they ordered their meal. They opted to try an appetizer and a single dish instead of going for the full course they offered due to time. Sango went for the veal and Kagome hunted for the duck. Soon their starter came of a samosa fused Coq au Vin. Kagome picked one up tentatively already intoxicated with the smell. The steam rose off the crust beautifully filling her sensitive nose and palate with joy. Her fingers toyed with the corners before picking a spot and biting into the steamy crust. The flavors burst inside of Kagome's mouth upon the first bite. The crispy flakey crust was buttered with a lovely filling of spices and pulled chicken mixed with parsley, onion, thyme, and mushrooms mixed in a red wine based roux. She licked her lips and realized she loved the little dish. When the thought passed and the feeling of delight began to be pushed aside by a mental chastise, Kagome suddenly glared at it with spite and damned everything.
"It's pretty good." Sango stated clearly enjoying herself as she almost finished her samosa. "This goes really good with this wine selection…"She dragged clearly not catching Kagome's ire.
Kagome put the little delicious treat down as if she was burned. "Well I'm still not impressed." She stated flicking away a crumb that fell on her skirt.
"Well the main course is where we can really tell what is going on in a kitchen." Sango stated looking at Kagome's expression. Sango took a drink from her glass and looked away not wanting to be seen lavishing in her betrayal by enjoying her French fusion samosa. She allowed the red wine to cover her tongue so she wouldn't wag it anymore and cause Kagome to strangle her. So far the little sample food was phenomenal and the presentation of everything was quite gorgeous.
Then their food came on beautiful silver trays with the crescent royal blue moon engraved in them. The trays were covered and placed on their tables. Right before their eyes the lids were taken off revealing their hot steaming food that burst with sensual scents and flavors that had Kagome wanting to whimper at the unfairness of the universe. Their meals were prepared beautifully and cooked to visually please. The smell rose up and took Kagome for a journey into the ingredients that could be found in her duck. It was very similar to her own duck in texture meaning it was cooked appropriately but the smell was different in a way. Kagome looked down as if accessing her opponent trying to guess what was in it by smell alone before she looked up to see Sango already diving in. Sango took her knife and cut into her veal quickly releasing the steam from the tender meat. Kagome watched her mouth open as she placed the meat on her tongue and tasted it. Sango's wide eyes closed and she slumped in her seat in happiness and euphoria. "Sweet heaven." She stated underneath her breath before sitting up and diving back into her meal.
Kagome swallowed not wanting to believe it was as good as Sango was saying. She looked down at her brilliantly designed plate that smelled of pure genius. Her fork and knife dug into the meat and she began to cut slowly silently praying that his duck would taste like the sole of a shoe. Her knife slid through the meat deliciously effortlessly watching the meat fold onto her fork with ease. The heat that burst from the inside steamed upwards sending its scent to her nostrils in full force. Her fork came up and rested right in front of her opened salivating mouth.
"Sesshomaru. Shit!" Sango suddenly said as she waved at Kagome frantically. Kagome stilled with her fork in her hand before Sango waved at her to squat down furiously. "Hide your aura! He's here! Hide it!" Sango whispered harshly scooting her sunglasses at her across the table. "And your scent! Oh my gosh! He's looking this way!"
"I thought you said he doesn't cook!" Kagome hissed setting her utensils down and ducking lowly, so that she wouldn't be seen.
"I said often!" Sango whispered harshly back at her.
"I got to get out before he sees me! Knowing that ass he will just mock me for life." She stated keeping her voice below demonic hearing.
Sango sat trying to be as casual as possible. She would take peeks to see where he was before relief flooded her at his return to wherever he came out of. Sango flagged down the waiter who came over and looked at their meals on the table.
"I'm sorry ladies, was there something wrong with your meal?" He asked genuinely concerned as he looked between the flustered woman and the other who looked as if she wanted to be swallowed by the table.
"No, no." Sango stated waving her hand and digging in her purse. "We have an emergency and need to leave. We would like to pay quickly." She stated hurriedly as Kagome put on her glasses and fought to get back inside of her jacket. The alcohol of her wine had lost its mellow charm as adrenaline set in. The waiter came back with the check and Kagome quickly put down her card to cover the bill beating Sango to it.
"We can split. You know I don't like it when-"
"Later Sango!" Kagome interrupted hurriedly trying to move her collar up higher again.
The waiter took the card and then asked for her ID. Kagome dug into her purse and pulled out her ID for him to check. He matched the name on both cards before smiling and handing her back her card and placed it on the table. He quickly left to ring them up before coming back and having her sign for the check. She quickly scribbled something unreadable so no one could read it and double check to make sure it wasn't printed on the receipt. She handed him back the paper and quickly both ladies stood and made a beeline to the door. The waiter looked at them oddly before looking back at their fresh hot barely touched meals. He bent down to take a plate when he noticed a card on the table. He quickly lifted it and rushed after the women.
"Excuse me ladies!" The waiter spoke rushing after the two who seemed hell bent on escaping. They were out of the door and gone before he could reach them even with his demon speed. He stretched his senses and used his nose to track their scent or auras but he couldn't find the direction they went which was rather odd as his sensitive nose could usually pick up anyone. Shaking his head at the oddity he came back inside and went to give it to the host for returns. The presence of his boss could be felt catching his attention. He looked up to see his boss coming out of the kitchen dressed for departure. His cold amber eyes looked at the table that had fresh food still sitting unoccupied and filling the place with aromas. The waiter saw his boss turn to him in question and approach.
The waiter shook his head and handed him the ID card that was left behind. "Two women were in a rush to leave unfortunately but they paid regardless. They had an emergency and one of them left this behind. I was putting it in the return box for tomorrow morning phone calls." He explained giving the facts that he knew mattered to his boss.
Sesshomaru looked down between his clawed fingers to see the ID of an image of the woman that he had a bone to pick with. The picture they had taken had caused quite some problems and even had the press questioning his motives. He had learned sense their altercation at the restaurant that his fiancé was the cause of the miko's ire which brought on another wave of headaches as he had to sort out the deeper problem which being his critique getting out to multiple sources when he only did one for one article. Of course it didn't take long to figure out the culprit which caused a growl in his chest. His eyes rolled up to the ceiling in thought for a minute as he rethought about breaking it off with his fiancé. He only wanted power and since the days of fighting of glory and power on the bloody battlefield with a sword in hand had long ended, he had to look at other means to mollify his instincts and beastly nature. He had lived many lives and each century or so he would seek a different route of fulfillment. His fiancé was half Japanese and half Chinese. Her family had ruled for a long time and managed to survive many trials and wars with large supplements of land and titles connected to their name. Now his fiancé carried that legacy and was thus the new frontier of power and glory. He didn't quite believe in finding a mate especially after witnessing the drama amongst his own royal family. So having a mate to his was much like how he imagined the caretaking of a pet would do. As of now, the infuriating woman was the only woman in which he had much to gain and so she made the most sense to take as a mate. He looked down again at the face of the woman who stirred the pot sort of speak.
The waiter quickly bowed and walked off to check on his other patrons leaving the tall infuriated demon standing there clutching the ID with a deadly smirk on his face. Sesshomaru slid the ID in his pants pocket before stuffing his hand in his jacket and walking out the door ready to find the woman that dared talk back to him.
"That's pretty impressive! But of course it is you Kikyo…so I mean…why not?"
Kagome ran her fingers through her thick tresses as she danced around her small kitchen trying to cook dinner for her and her daughter. Steam flew upwards from the pasta she was boiling and the sound of marinated chicken sizzling in a buttered pan filled the small space. Music played softly in the background as Rin sat at the table and worked on a few puzzles of flowers she enjoyed. Rin's soft pink onesie clad feet kicked happily after hearing her Aunt's voice whom she haven't heard from or seen in a long time. Two pig tails were pulled on top of her head as she moved a piece into place and clapped at her own success.
Kagome smiled putting fresh parsley and basil on her chicken. Her sister was speaking about her most recent paintings and her slow emersion back into the world of art. She used her right ear and shoulder to hold the phone while she dusted her hands on her short orange pants and ribbed red tank top before reaching for the phone with her hand again. Her fingers got tangled in the curl and she pulled slightly while whispering a soft complaint while her sister spoke on the other end. Kagome's heart was in her chest at hearing her sister's melodic voice on the other end of the receiver. She was shocked her sister remembered her one day of the month off and was even more surprised that she called her for once instead of the desperate attempts Kagome always made to keep their relationship alive.
"That's great Kikyo! I'm so happy! Well you know we are in need of your artwork here in our home and I'm sure when you see the restaurant you may have some design advice." Kagome smiled stilling her hand to just listen at the sincere excitement from her sister instead of the cold tones and drags of words she used before followed by the constant eruption by the dial tone followed by the operator.
"Oh you're not coming…" Kagome's heart beat slowly then at the news. She rather hoped she could see her sister in France. She and her sister had such a strong bond and she hoped that they could get back to that place but it seemed that they had quite a bit of leg work still to go. Kikyo's voice began to drag and Kagome sighed knowing that she may have hit the barrier. However, just hearing the small change and having such a spontaneous surprise was enough to warm her over.
The doorbell suddenly rang and Kagome tilted her head a little to look down the hall. Rin was already down the hallway ready to get the door when Kagome's voice rang out. "Rin! What did I say about opening the door-Oh my gosh, Kikyo I'll call you right back! I promise. Someone is just at the door." She quickly spoke while speed walking to the entrance after Rin. Quickly, both sisters said their goodbyes, which was a joy for once to end the conversation like normal people. Kagome hung up and once again went into scolding Rin about answering doors regardless of scent matching. Kagome watched in a panic as Rin turned the doorknob and swung it open with a giggle.
"Rin!"
"Oi!"
Kagome stopped in her tracks and held the phone to her chest as she watched Inuyasha come in and pick up Rin in the process. Inuyasha held a white bag in his hand and he set down by the door so that he could get a better hold on the squirming little one in his arms. Rin laughed and dug her nose into his neck comfortingly and growled lowly much like how she had been doing before. Inuyasha closed the door behind him before walking further into the small abode. His golden eyes roamed around the living room before smirking.
"You know…for a famous chef…you live like shi-"
"Inuyasha!" She cut off holding the phone at him threateningly.
"Calm down! Geesh!" He said before walking towards her holding a purring Rin in his arms. He stopped in the small hallway for a minute to take in the view that he was seeing. A slow smirk appeared on his lips at seeing the normally bossy well put together woman without the drapery of clothing she called a black chef's uniform and an apron that looked like it had been through hell. For once she was messy and wild standing in front of him with her mouth slightly opened ready to chastise him for something he did or didn't do. Her legs in her orange short shorts seemed to go on for miles and her curves were visible which shocked him quite a bit. Her red tank top clung to her and pushed up her chest a bit while her hair was piled messily on her head with a pencil. Maybe it was a good thing she covered up all the time as clearly she would be a distraction in any working environment. Along with her presence was the heavenly aroma of spices and cooked caramelized meat permeating her small apartment inviting him to stay longer than his original intentions. Pots bubbled and steamed into the air heating the entire home. Gentle music was playing in the background acting as a soundtrack to the vision he was seeing.
"Earth to Inuyasha!"
The young demon blinked a bit before looking at her pouty lips as she once again ranted about his behavior. He concentrated on her words before life all began to make sense again and he was able to communicate his reason for coming over. "Yeah, yeah, yeah! The bag is from Shiori from fashion week. She wanted to drop it off herself but something came up so she gave me your address to do her dirty work." He responded unsure of what exactly she said before he quickly shifted Rin to his side in one arm. Inuyasha's phone started to ring in his pocket and he quickly reached for it. Rin's small fingers came upward and began taking luxuries in the soft texture of his long snowy white hair.
"Damn." He muttered underneath his breath seeing the text his father sent to remind him of his duties back at the castle. He looked up again to see Kagome had walked off and began stirring her pot of sauce while happily nodding her head at her own accomplishment. He looked around again at the small place and noticed how comfy it looked with all the clutter and mementos of times passed. He paused when he saw a picture on the wall of two people he hadn't seen in a long time. His eyebrows came in and he concentrated on the woman and the man in the photo that had lost their lives in tragedy. He looked to Kagome who was once again saying something while stirring her pot happily chatting away before his eyes went back to the picture. Maybe the two miko's had known each other?
His phone buzzed again and he sighed focusing again on the intimate scene before him. "Sorry Kags. I got to go."
Kagome banged the spoon on the edge of the pot to knock off any excess sauce before setting it down in its holder. "You sure?" She asked wiping her hands on a rag wondering when he became so familiar to call her by her short name. She turned to look at him as he held Rin in his arms smiling with fangs at Rin muttering something to her that was exciting her little pup. Kagome smiled gently and walked forward joining them in her small living room.
"You sure you can't stay? We have more than enough." Kagome said pointing to her pot simmering on the stove. "It's chicken in a white lemon garlic sauce on wild rice." She said leaning against the door casually doing more damage than good.
Inuyasha hesitated but he had obligations that he knew he could not push away. "Maybe if you ladies are free later tomorrow I can take you both to get dessert." He spoke before putting Rin down and patting her affectionately on the head enjoying tinder nip at his thumb. He walked towards the door and opened it before turning around.
Kagome walked to the threshold of the door and leaned against the frame. "I'm sure Rin would like that."
Inuyasha looked at her questioningly. Kagome smiled heartbreakingly. "Restaurant." She muttered looking down to Rin with warmth in her eyes seeing the small changes in her little one. Rin was more affectionate these days and very communicative with her little mewls. Kagome didn't understand what she was saying sometimes but she was making an effort to pay attention to tone and pitch when her little one spoke. Luckily, Rin hadn't grown out of using sign so Kagome was still able to communicate effectively with her.
Rin stood by her mother's legs holding onto her tightly now while looking at him with similar round brown eyes to that of her mother. A question formed in his head that he knew she would not answer. He swallowed it down before quickly scratching his head. "We'll figure something out." He stated with finality before he turned and waved his goodbye. Rin yipped in the hallway listening to her own voice echo in the building behind the Inu. Kagome smiled and used her long legs to maneuver Rin back into the apartment. Rin laughed at the new game trying to get around her mother's legs before Kagome closed the door. Kagome quickly bent down to kiss Rin feeling oddly much more cheery than before. Rin signed that she was ready to eat and ran back to the table to finish her puzzle. Kagome looked at the white bag he dropped off and smiled at the contents.
"Oh..Shiori…" She dragged looking at the sample bags and designer sweaters inside before setting it down and going back to her pot in the kitchen. She took the pot of sauce off the stove and poured it onto her chicken in the skillet that had begun to turn pink. She folded the ingredients over with her wooden spatula and smiled. The creamy buttery white sauce thickened with the juices of the chicken and lathered it beautifully. She used her hand to grab oregano and quickly topped it with the herb loving the smell and additional texture to the dish.
Another knock came at the door and she peeked to see Rin rush off again. "Rin!" She exasperatedly stated putting her spoon down. "Is it Inuyasha at the door again?" She walked forward into the hall towards to door to see little Rin turn the knob. "Inuyasha, did you change your-" Kagome's words died on her tongue as she walked briskly to the door. Her eyes darkened and her lips thinned to tight line. Rin stood still and smiled upward at the big man standing before her. Kagome stood protectively over her child as Rin's clawed hands reached upward to the man demanding the same treatment she had just received from the other. Boldly she attached herself to his leg enjoying the gentle pat on her head from the older Inu.
"Hello…miko." The baritone voice rumbled with golden eyes shining with mirth down at the petite woman.
"What do you want, demon?" She asked getting straight to the point wanting to yank Rin back from the arrogant demon that was Sesshomaru. She took in his well-dressed form in a black suit looking as if he came off the runway. His hair was sleeked back and everything about him seemed far more eloquent than anything around her.
His slender clawed fingers dug into his pants pocket and he pulled out her ID. He watched as her chin lifted and a red blush darkened across her cheeks. Her stance tightened as if she was preparing for battle and he too found himself flexing his claws. Her eyes shined back at him with resolution and confidence reminding him of their first time meeting face to face at the restaurant the night everything went into a plot twist. His sensitive nose took in the scents of her apartment and he felt the slight crackle of her aura in warning. His aura curiously pushed outward feeling the burn of her energy. A smirk played at his lips as he handed over the small little card. "In your haste to run, you left this." He stated waving around the little card between his index and middle clawed fingers. Kagome bit her lip and reached for it but he pulled it out of her reach. "I implore you to stay longer next time and not cower away miko. It's not a good look for one so highly favored." He finished lowering his fingers allowing her to snatch it from him coldly with a glare.
Kagome could feel her skin heat up from the embarrassment at being caught at his restaurant. She quickly stood her ground trying to gain control of the conversation. "I had something better to do than to choke down your sloppy reinvention of one of my dishes."
Sesshomaru's eyes turned into a glare and his hand stilled on top of Rin's head catching her attention. Rin pulled away and ran letting his hand still wanting so badly to grab the woman by the throat and toss her. They had only been in each other's presence for a few minutes and already he wanted to erase her existence. "If you're going to tell lies please put some effort into being believable." He countered.
Kagome's jaw locked as tried her best to maintain eye contact instead of looking away after being called out on her lie. She wasn't lying completely as she didn't even get a chance to try her dish. But his appetizers however only made her eager to taste the main dish. Even then looking upon him she was reminded of his choice of bold flavors and exotic spices. She was about to speak when Rin pushed her way to her side and ran back to Sesshomaru.
Rin's tiny hands reached for his clawed ones and her very small broken mewls reached his ears. He looked down at the tiny demoness holding something in his hand and pushing it into his. He bent down slowly to his knees so he was eye level with her. He opened his hand to see her place a very wrinkled and dying purple flower in his hand. He gazed upon it, instantly recognizing the poor thing as the flower she had dropped upon their first meeting under the moonlight. Somehow the petals still held on for dear life while the stim had begun to wither. He looked at Rin as she smiled revealing her gums and tiny small fangs that were slowly growing in.
Kagome opened her mouth to say something when she heard a small noise. Her mouth closed immediately to see the older Inu speaking to her daughter in the deepest sound she had ever heard. Her mind used the time to find something smart to say but she found herself unable to do so. She watched Rin crawl over his knee and grab him around his neck.
"Rin!" Kagome chastised embarrassingly watching her little pup hold onto a man tightly. Her hands came up to grab Rin. "I'm sorry-" She stated forgetting their little spat. She reached for Rin who turned in her hold to grab for her around her neck. "Rin…" Kagome questioned unsure of the strange behavior. She could feel Rin's tiny hands grip onto her make scrunching motions against her skin. Rin's nose shoved itself into her neck and she could feel her little one breathing deeply. Kagome looked to Sesshomaru who stood still and stiff before he turned.
"Wait!" Kagome yelled rushing out into the hall but stopping to see him turn and walk down the stairs. Kagome groaned holding onto her child tightly while kissing her head. She bounced her a little as she walked back into her apartment.
"Rin?" Kagome asked closing the door behind her and moving to sit on the small couch. Suddenly she felt the small sensation of something wet on her skin and she pulled Rin away. Kagome glimpsed at her pup to see Rin was crying. Kagome immediately pulled her pup back to her and rocked her slowly while whispering loving things to her. Rin's body shook and her clawed fingers dug into her skin painfully but Kagome didn't care. Kagome knew Rin was having an episode and she tried her best to comfort her. Kagome questioned what could have brought this on but she found no answers. One minute Rin was happy and sniffing Sesshomaru…then the next when he pulled her away she started to cry. Rin's hands tightened and more of her hot tears rolled onto her flesh. Kagome's own eyes started to water knowing there was nothing she could do. A small voice was heard that had stained Kagome's psyche for the rest of her life. She leaned her head upwards to the heavens to fight off the tears but found it exceptionally difficult especially hearing the broken cries of her pup in her arms. She once longed to hear Rin's beautiful blabbering again but never did she want to hear her cries. Rin's cries marked her soul so deeply that their pain became one. She listened at Rin's mewls mixed with the language that she thought Rin had forgotten.
"Papa."