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Chapter 14: Lacquered Scenes
Kira's emotions were in turmoil and practically bursting with raging emotions. After her unruly exit from the Tashio condo, she tried to set something up herself to be rid of the woman. She had enough of Shiru never completing the job and returning back to ask her for more money. She immediately began to pull up her alternative banking information only to find her accounts were frozen. She had gone into a panic attack when she tried all the accounts she created to find them empty and no longer able to pull money from her father's account. She of course had her main account but she couldn't possibly pull money from there otherwise her father would ask what exactly did she need thousands of dollars for. She immediately sat in her car and spoke to the bankers trying to gain clarity of the situation when her phone vibrated.
The banker began speaking hurriedly informed her that her father's accounts had all been frozen and that an investigation was being conducted. She looked at the screen on her phone to see a notification of a message from her father had arrived. Her chest beat painfully as she rested her head against her steering wheel in front of her private house. Her fingers shook with each swipe she made on her phone to call a few others. She called her private numbers who worked to hide the trail yet it did nothing to calm her spirit. She whipped the car into drive and drove speedily to her next destination.
He knows. He's going to kill me. How could he know? We were careful. I was very careful.
Kira looked into her rear view mirror at her reflection and wiped the imaginary remnants of blood from her nose.
That bitch!
The sound of her phone vibrating could be heard and she glanced downwards quickly into her beige leather passenger seat where her Samsung Galaxy sat. Kira pulled into the company's driveway and immediately got out of her red Porsche. Grabbing her purse and her phone she marched into the large edifice to confront the young demon that let this go too far. Her red heels beat against the pavement and echoed upon entry into the overly lavish building. Security immediately let her pass knowing very well who she was despite the big brand frames resting on her face. Her feet carried her into the big lobby of Shiru Corps where she proceeded to walk pass the desk security. Glass walls, black marbled floors, and golden vases filled with large elegant plants decorated the lobby. The owner's clan mark of the snake was embossed in gold on the doors and the walls letting everyone know who entered the building exactly where they were.
Kira marched right towards the back where the private elevators stood. She quickly dug into her purse and swiped a fake badge he had given her to have access to the area beyond the lobby where the company elevators sat. Growling at her loss of patience, she threw the badge back inside and pulled out her cell phone. She looked at her cell phone and quickly looked at the messages to see what her father had written.
Daddy – Where are you?
Daddy - We need to talk.
Hiromi – Dad has been calling for you.
Daddy – Come into the office now.
A cold sweat broke out on the back of her neck and she swallowed thickly. Throwing her phone into her purse she all but ran towards the black elevators and punched a code in that would take her to the master's suite. A loud ring was heard and immediately she stepped inside. Her finger stabbed the close button as she glared dangerously at anyone daring enough to enter into the elevator with her. The few employees witnessing her raging aura did nothing but step away and whisper behind their hands. The doors closed and began her climb upwards.
Her mind raced over what could have happened to give her away as the elevator were rising up. That account was always filled to the rim with money to payback Tashio for the exports that they had given during the end of WW2 when Japan's economy was suffering. Her father never checked the account because he always received receipts from Tashio Corp indicating that they received his payments on time. She looked back at the messages on her phone sneering at Hiromi's name as she called the man her dad. When she inherited the company the first thing she would do is get rid of Hiromi's ass.
She was livid as her feet hit the black tiled floors of the office suite she was slowly starting to loathe. The dark décor that surrounded her paled in comparison to that of Tashio Corp and reminded her of the reasoning behind the situation she was currently in. Her fingers padded below her nose again noting the skin healed leaving not a blemish of the incident that occurred earlier yet it stained the space within her mind something fierce. A few people were standing in the aisle exchanging documents before they turned to see who was coming. Her aura made them run out of her way as she stormed passed the secretary to enter into the lofty egotistical office similarly designed to mimic that of the older competitor Inu.
"Y-you can't go in!" Stuttered the secretary who simply watched in fear as the dark wooden door to her boss's office was thrown open and slammed behind her.
Kira entered into the darkly lit room. Upon entry she was greeted with a giant gold snake insignia embossed on the wall to her right. She turned into the large white room fully to see the man of the hour sitting at his dark wooden desk surrounded by gold and porcelain items to insinuate his nobility and wealth. His toned body was dressed in crisp black pants and a purple dress shirt. She marched right up to the desk taking off her shades and slammed her hands down on the dark expensive Italian lacquered wood. Her shades fell on the desk and her purse dropped from her shoulders onto the floor.
A growl was heard from the man in front of her gathering his complete attention. He felt her rage before she even made it to his floor and with a good look at her he could see why. The makeup under her puffy eyes was smeared and her red dress did have a slight wrinkle in it which was odd for the demoness. She was always very particular about her manner of dress and looked down on those that didn't value their aesthetics. He watched her lean forward and placed a manicured finger in his face.
"I have just been cut off!" She growled out. "I have nothing now and my father has requested I come to the office!" She exclaimed. "He froze the accounts, Shiru!" She yelled louder.
Shiru's eyes widened a fraction before he turned to his computer. He quickly did a few searches and pulled up his file to see no money had been added into the account. He leaned back in his chair to think on the situation. His features hardened and he had his own questions bubbling within him. He looked at the demoness untrustingly wondering if she had opened her mouth and squealed somehow. He wouldn't put it pass her.
"How is this possible?" She demanded moving her hands onto her hips. Her clawed hand came up to brush her extensions from off her shoulder to hang down her back.
With aggravation he responded, "Well my dear, he could have known if you over drafted into the payments he was making for starters." He explained before sitting up to exit out of the program clearly not fazed by the new development. "Or maybe someone decided to take a look for once at the account."
She thought on this and gasped. "I don't give a damn. You need to fix this and come good on your end of the bargain. Not only is that tramp still alive but she is officially his mate!" She yelled leaning into his face.
Very quickly he stood up and was in front of hers. His hand reached out to latch into her false golden tresses and grasp tightly. Shiru pulled her practically on the desk so that he was nose to nose with her. Her clawed hand grasp onto the desk for balance before reaching for his hands. Both held eyes that were brimming with molten fire at the situation and getting darker by the minute.
"Calm yourself! This was bound to happen. Everyone knows in business to always look out for the money. You are a fool to think no one would ever look into that one account. And you forget that to make things happen, you need money my dear. Money that you no longer have to give me to get rid of your little problem." He responded as she reached to claw at his wrist from holding her so forcefully. The tiny scent of fear tinged the air with each second passing. His grip tightened to show her who was really in control causing a whimper to escape her throat. "I think it is best if we let this be for now! That woman will suffer later, but for now we need to lay low." He growled.
"I paid you! I helped you build what you have!" She growled out still sinking her claws in his wrists. Blood dripped from their hands into her hair and on the desk in small blots. "Without me you would be broke or have you forgotten! You would have nothing without me!"
His growl grew louder at hearing the truth. Their relationship was built entirely on power, money, sex, and revenge. He needed more funds to be even close to competing with Tashio and Hirakama. Kira was the gateway into getting those funds but it came at a price. Kira had her eye on the older Tashio since she developed a uterus. It wasn't until news had broken out about him possibly losing it all that she latched onto him. Regardless of the route she took, the rewards were beneficial to them both. With Tashio wrapped around Kira's clawed finger, he could be given more money for years and slowly have taken things bit by bit under the dog's nose without him ever knowing. However, if he had no mate at all, his fortune was up for the taking. He was perfectly fine playing his role and entertaining the heir to the Hirakama fortune to secure his position in Japan as the leading man. It was only with suspicion did he notice Kira's bizarre desire for the dog. He fed on this desire and so far it had been fruitful until that wrench came. That little American didn't know how much she cost him these days in both money and man power. It took money to send those guys to attack her and it cost even more to hide the evidence.
His fist tightened just thinking about it. His mind raced over the pictures of the little woman who carried herself like the queen. After spending so much time looking at her profile, he knew every curve and line on her body from her wide smile down to her plump thighs that reflected the sun's embrace. He saw the curves hidden behind the clothing she wore that covered her yet hugged her figure in a tantalizing way. He could feel himself tighten just thinking about her body hugged against his own in a much more familiar manner. How it would kill the Inu to know that his beloved was wrapped so intimately around the waist of his enemy. His tongue came out to lick his lips as the woman beneath him looked to him with wide fearful eyes. Her claws were steady digging into his flesh to get his hands off of her. Beads of blood dripped down his wrist and he watched one drop slide and lace into her roots.
His deep red gaze focused on her form and noted her revealing red dress that proclaimed her more of a cheap sidewalk whore than an heir to a billion dollar fortune. He grunted and yanked her up by the hair to his lips aggressively. Vehemently, his thin lips crashed onto hers hungrily ripping a painful moan from the woman captured in his grasp. His fist felt wet from the blood she extracted and he couldn't deny the slight pain he felt from her assault. Her claws then reached up to push into his cheek away from her but it only encouraged him. His sharp nails dug a bit deeper cutting into her scalp.
Her aura flexed and he could feel her energy building as if she would attack him. Hastily, he pulled her small skirt upwards to rest on her hips revealing her lower half. Her hands went to grab for his and he made quick work to push them out of the way and unbuckle his pants. "Please, no!" She yelled but her words went silent and unheard in the closed room. Her eyes looked up at the crazed demon with blood dripping from the gashes on his cheeks. In one motion he pushed her thong to the side and entered her forcefully.
A scream ripped from her throat from the strength followed by a whimper as he pounded inside of her. He ignored her pleas of anguish and pain. She wasn't ready to receive him and her body didn't produce enough fluids to ease the entry. But he didn't care. Her tousled image was replaced with that of curly black locks and wide exotic light brown eyes. His claws scraped the skin of her pale slender neck and imagined a more tanned and shimmering hue reflecting off of the lights in his office. The scent of blood and sex perfumed the air. It mingled among the fear, pain, and arousal coming from the woman below who didn't know exactly how to feel about her situation anymore. A small tear ran from the corner of her eye down into her lips.
She stared at him wide eyed at the audacity, yet she couldn't deny the pleasure she was experiencing. He hit inside of her so deep that the pain came for a second before she was caressed with pleasure each time he pulled away. The blood on his hands smeared against their skin against his powerful grip. Her fake breasts bounced with each force out of her dress shirt catching his attention. His hands released her wrists and neck to move towards her hips. He leaned forward and took a nipple in his mouth biting and suckling hard without care.
She moaned with her clawed hands now free to roam into his thick black hair. Her claws scraped his scalp forcefully holding him to her. "Yes!" she cried out with more tears falling from her eyes. Her legs came up to kick his pants and boxers off of his hips and slide down his legs.
He leaned up to look at her growing disgusted with her scent. She smelt of the Inu. The dog's scent hung on her clothes indicating that they were together recently. He sneered and pushed harder into her with vigor. A gasp ripped from her lips at the offense. His mouth came close to her ears as he impaled her repeatedly on his shaft. "Do not come here and think you have power again!" He snarled down at her as she nodded hurriedly torn between wanting him to stop versus keep going. At this point she was crying now and hanging on for dear life.
"Good! Now you will do as I say from now on if you want your little problem to go away!" He growled out pushing himself deeper inside of her. His nails dug into the red fabric at her hips as he sped up his pace. Her throaty screams erupted and her hands went to push him away however it only urged him to continue onwards.
"I'll give you whatever it takes to be rid of her!" she sobbed. She slowly let out a cry at his forceful actions and he smirked at this. He took in a deep breath and slowed down with a sick smile knowing well the cards he was going to play. He shushed and bent down to kiss her gently on the lips listening to her whimper as he finally eased his abuse. His grip loosened and he ran a gentle hand through her locks. "Shhh…" He hushed stroking her back to get her to calm down and cease her sobs. "I will fix this I promise. But you have got to do as I say. Ok." He whispered into the shell of her ear.
He watched her head nod in agreement. His hips found a more luxurious rhythm in which she enjoyed and began slowly participating in. Shiru bent down and kissed her cheeks tasting her salty tears against his tongue. His lips caressed her skin before connecting with her mouth. His tongue came out to comfort hers and cautiously she opened up more for him. He could feel her aura calm down and now her motions indicated nothing but pure pleasure. She looked up at him through black lashes and smiled through her remaining tears.
"See, I told you. I will fix everything." He reassured watching her nod and place absolute faith in him. He made this declaration more so to himself than her. He pulled her close to him in a false embrace while smirking devilishly behind her. He would win in this silent war and he was perfectly fine with Kira being collateral damage in the process.
His eyes closed at the raw sensation that danced deliciously with his conniving thoughts that passed through him. So in rapture he was that he was truly unaware that the woman in his dark hold shared the same sentiments in regards to him.
"I didn't know it rained." Simone mumbled looking out of the car window at the beautiful bright sun and clear blue sky that rested above her. Her eyes fell on the people walking along the pavement and the flashing blur of buildings noting the droplets from a previous rain that night and the puddles decorating Tokyo's pavement.
"Yes, you did." Was all he said with a smirk as he looked to his side for clearance into the next lane. His eyes landed on her semi-slumped state heavily impressed with himself. The small twitch of his smirk didn't go unnoticed by the woman sitting next to him in the passenger's seat.
Simone thought about his cheeky statement before a blush came to her cheeks and her serene look turned into a mirth filled glare. "I see you have read up on American slang. Bravo." She applauded mockingly clapping very slowly. "But you know what, I'm going to walk away from that one." She muttered looking back at the scenery as it changed before her. Her mirth turning into a gentle smile finding she had no energy for a negative bone in her body at that moment. "You live for another day, Senor."
Somehow they had managed to look decent that very late morning and leave the house to search for nourishment. Cleaning up took longer than expected thanks to Sesshomaru's unwavering appetite for other things not.
found on any menu in the world. Her eyes glanced at the clock on the dashboard noting the high noon time they had reached thanks to Sesshomaru's desire and true diligence to remove the disgusting smell and taste from his person and replace it with something a bit more exquisite.
Simone sat truly relaxed in his car with a black t-shirt dress and black flats. Her hair sat messily pulled high on the top of her head accented with a teardrop necklace and her loose fitting engagement ring swinging on her finger. She had absolutely no energy left to be particularly fashion conscious and quite frankly the caring of anything else at the moment had left her including her previous altercation in the living room.
Her eyes wandered over to her mate who managed to pull himself together and look presentable like any other day. The only detail that spoke about his extreme tranquil nature was his choice of Toms on his feet that she had never seen him wear unless it was around the house. She continued to take him in growing a tad bit jealous of his easy wash and go look. She slightly regretted not putting on any makeup for the day just looking at his flawless skin and features.
Sesshomaru turned to his right to see her staring up at him quickly before keeping his eyes on the road. The scenery outside had changed and more birds could be seen in the trees than in the sky. Summer was coming to an end. He noticed the shift in the temperature that was on a decline indicating that Fall was on the horizon. Winter was his favorite season and he looked forward to the crisp atmosphere and the cooling temperatures that would blow against his skin. He wasn't sure how Simone would fair during the season seeing as she somehow spent her whole life avoiding winter at all cost. He looked over to see plump tanned thighs showing from her dress clearly unaware of the chill that was to come.
Catching his gaze she looked down at her legs to see what caught his attention. Not finding anything she looked up in question. "What?"
"Are you prepared for the winter?" He asked looking back on the road and moving with the flow of traffic. Already, the cliffs were in sight indicating they had reached the beach area where their new favorite restaurant they visited in the past sat.
Simone looked down at her skin and groaned. "No not really. I own nothing winter related. I'm strictly summer approved only. I was not built for winter I'm afraid." She explained with a smile.
"That's too bad. I guess I could ship you back to a more tropical inclined country and retrieve you when winter ends."
Simone reached over to grab his hand that rested on the gear shift. "Thank you for understanding my plight. I'll see you in 8 months I guess. Bikini time!" She exclaimed and wiggled a small dance in her seat.
Sesshomaru was a bit shocked from the bold move of her hand. He found it to be strange and yet comforting to have her hand rest beside his. He smirked and he enclosed her small hand in his larger one; holding it affectionately. The drive continued on and they made their way to the restaurant where the gentleman from their first visit immediately recognized their vehicle. Sesshomaru pulled forward slowly into a stop. He got out while the young man pulled open the door for Simone. Simone took his hand and stood up before Sesshomaru came around to escort her with his arm at her ready. He gave his keys to the man and the pair walked forward inside. Soon they found themselves sitting in their same spot privately looking over the beach and the ocean. Families were out this time clearly trying to soak up the last rays of the summer. The kids' exuberant shrieks of feeling the tide against their ankles and the cautious calling of their names from their parents were heard. A few couples held hands and walked along the shore talking lowly to each other.
The waiter came to fill their glasses up with fresh cool iced water. After his introductions of himself along with the menu, he secured their drink orders. He made promises of returning and left scurrying back behind the closed doors from which he came. Sesshomaru felt as if time had gone backwards in a sense. He sat fully relaxed yet attentive now that he was with his powerful and loving mate. His mark shined brighter on her neck which was still slightly red and puffy from his attentions. He could feel her blood pumping through her veins with each crashing wave on the ocean beating with the rhythm of her strong heart. Happiness surrounded her in waves feeding his own dynamism with positivity coaxing him to relax further with her. Her scent entwined with his and settled over his body like a comforting warm blanket. She was his other half and for the first time in centuries he felt complete. It filled him like the best sort of rich dark bourbon that warmed his insides. It tasted so divine from the decades of time that passed making the moment that much more savory.
Simone sat back fondly watching everything before her. They were surrounded by upturned crystal Waterford glasses and shiny silverware on various white linen covered tables. There was a gentle wind from the beach blowing about and ruffling the crisp white table cloths and coaxing the nearby pelicans into flight. A few strands of hair framing her face blew along with the wind tickling her nose. She watched everyone enjoy their time on the beach. Families of various natures…demons….humans…and mixed families were together with children and pets running about yelling and having a good time together in the sun.
"Now are you going to tell me about your connection with Hirakama?"
Simone looked back to the Inu who sat casually in his chair looking at her intently. She kept his gaze and reached to grab for her water glass. She took a sip making sure to not look away from his mindreading gaze noting the silent calculations he was already doing in his head. The waiter came conveniently to her rescue placing her glass of Riesling in front of her and his shot of whiskey parallel to her. She took a sip and collected her thoughts before giving her order to the matron. She watched the man quickly walk away and set her glass on the table. She leaned back in her own chair to look at him noting the conversation was still at the forefront of his mind. "What if I told you, that both of you were right and that money was being taken from your accounts by his company but also he wasn't withdrawing the money at all?"
Sesshomaru raised his eyebrows and watched her with narrowed eyes. "Did he concoct this idea and sell it to you?"
Simone shook her head preparing her words thoughtfully. "He came by waving the letter you sent clearly upset about what it would mean to be pushed away from your company. I offered to speak with him and help get to the bottom of his problem. That paper you picked off the floor was a direct copy from the bank that I verified and can verify again that he has been making correct payments. He personally has not withdrawn one red cent from you. Which means someone with access to his accounts has been doing so without anyone's knowledge over a long period of time or…"
"Fraud." He finished sitting a little bit straighter if possible engaged in the new challenge.
"I imagine he has called all his banks to freeze accounts while yours is still active so he could recover the payments that were taken in addition to the payments he needed to make. Also, it would make since for him to do so just in case whoever is pulling the money can get caught. I think however, he will just pay off the whole debt just so he can use his resources to focus on the cleanup of his company. Well that is what I would try to do if I had the means to do it. Now the next question is who is taking your money and why." She stated before the waiter came by and placed their orders in front of them on the table.
The great Inu stared at her intensely, rolling around her findings in his head before he looked at the individual that she was again. Part of him wanted to strangle his employees for not finding this out sooner. It was shameful that she, a new employee with no interaction in his business affairs managed to get so much information than his accountants who spent weeks on the case. And the man was rather trusting to allow his intended to help him in a private matter such as his financials.
Was he really that mortified?
Sensing his mood change she looked up while his own meal was being placed in front of him. Simone smirked while placing her napkin in her lap. "Well if it helps, your rule of Japan is quite intimidating you know. I took my personal time to help him get to the bottom of this whole craziness." She explained waving her hands in the air. "One thing that does bother me is that you would think the guy would be a little bit more…conscious of the money he is paying and giving to his heir. I read his statements and did you know he had other children?"
Sesshomaru thought on this making no move to enjoy his meal. "He does have another daughter. Hiromi I believe is her first name. An illegitimate one who I have to say is more hard-working than his current heir."
Simone thought on this before lifting a few steaming vegetables to her mouth and blowing gently. "Why doesn't he make her in charge then and have Kira go out and get a real job that she can manage?"
Sesshomaru nodded looking back at the ocean. "Because the same people that tried to foolishly attack this Sesshomaru for not having a mate, will attack him for putting an illegitimate child on the throne of his lands and as heir of his traditionally Japanese company."
Simone stopped eating to look down at her plate. Even in this era race, status, and class still managed to put a dimmer on things. "But, she seemed to be the only productive one during our little meeting. She was on the phone helping her father get to the bottom of things when no one else was capable of doing so." She sighed in frustration. "Quite frankly, if the girl was looking for a job…I would hire her and pay her top notch. I mean screw these people. He should make her heir and force Kira to either get her shit in order or do something else productive because she is only taking money at this point."
Sesshomaru's eyes went up at this. Simone looked at him while cutting harshly into her meat and scraping the plate while talking underneath her breath. "Pigs...assholes…stay in their own business." Were the words he could pick up as she stabbed at her meat again before ripping a piece off and eating it. She looked at his stoic face and back at his untouched plate.
"We spent hours making calls and doing financial research of his own company to make any headway. She gets a nice little sum for doing absolutely nothing but breathing while her sister is doing all the work. But, the guy seemed to really care about his company and Hiromi as much as he does Kira. But all in all your money is being given back in full by Saturday. So, don't get so angry. Eat." She commanded pointing her fork at his plate.
Sesshomaru looked down at his food and sighed. His prime rib was laughable yet the humans deemed it to be of appropriate size for the amount of money he was paying. He eyed her dangerously before picking his knife and fork up to begin cutting into his practically raw meal.
Simone lifted a fork to her lips and ate her food with a smile. "Maybe one day we can take a vacation. You know, find a cave and get back to basics. Maybe even find a good wild boar and do a little fishing for spider crabs." She spoke appealing to his demonic hunting nature. She looked at his plate and knew he would still be hungry afterwards due to their energy draining activities the previous night.
"Let this Sesshomaru know when you would like to do so." He stated clearly pleased at her plans.
She laughed at this and nodded in agreement. "I'm excited for the future!"
Sesshomaru ate a piece of his meat with a smirk at the possibilities she presented. Her statement appealed to him in so many different ways. Loathing of the change in times had settled in his belly long ago as the forests began to change due to man's hand. It left very little space for demons to partake in natural activities and connect with their instincts. Even having his food presented to him in such a mundane fashion made it look undesirable. To see her acknowledge this in such a silent way and opt for a solution so quickly made his chest swell up with pride. Maybe he would take her up on a journey through the Australian outback where the plains were still wild and open for demonic living. Or maybe she would enjoy being completely isolated in the jungles of her choosing between the Amazon or the African Congo. His eyes roamed her face as she ate clearly enjoying her meal and thinking of something that brought her much joy.
"How did you go from elite combatant to event coordinator?" He asked truly in awe.
Simone laughed at this trying not to choke on her food as she swallowed roughly. She coughed a bit and reached for her water. Immediately he was there to rub her back and help her through it. He could see tears running from the sides of her face as she kept laughing while her reflexes worked the dislodged meat out of her throat. After a while she calmed down and chewed her food. He moved back to his seat slightly annoyed that his simple question brought up such calamity and laughter from her. She watched through a watery gaze as he shifted his chair closer to her should she need him again. "Well remember I was an event planner before I was a fighter." She looked at him and drank her water again while rubbing her chest in a soothing motion. "I didn't look Japanese then and event planning wasn't exactly lucrative back in those days." She joked before sitting back a little to look at the ocean. She watched the waves brush up against the ankles of a little boy while his father pointed out at the horizon at some birds that flew by. "I had to learn to survive Sesshomaru." She muttered a bit more serious now that her laughter had passed. "I am a free thinking entrepreneurial American woman that went back in time to a place where woman weren't exactly shouting words of feminism." She explained. "So becoming a fighter was a natural option for me. It was a very hard road to take to develop the skills I had but I would do it all over again." She finished turning to look at him with a smile.
"Hm." He stated steeping in her words and stewing over them finding he agreed with this. Simone definitively was not the type of woman like that of his brother's mate. Simone was a lot more aggressive and direct in everything that she did which sometimes overwhelmed him. She looked at everyone in the eyes, bowed to those she really wanted to show respect, and followed Japanese customs loosely while somehow managing to show respect and gaining the respect by many. She showed diligence and attention to detail in everything she did. She worked as hard as he could remember. The more he had spent time with her, the more he found that she had not changed.
Simone looked up after taking the last bite of her meal. She leaned back and smiled slightly wanting to know where his mind was. However, she had learned that as long as he was content that it was best to let him be. She blushed a little feeling his desire for her through the mark prickling along her neck. A shiver ghosted up her spine and soon goosebumps came forward. Blushing, she finished the last little bit of her meal and allowed a smile to plant across her face. Her legs suddenly were lifted and placed across his lap in a relaxing manner. She looked at him curiously as he simply stared at her silently daring her to question his motives. Her smile turned into a smirk and she scooted her chair closer so she could lean on him. They sat close together with him rubbing small soothing circles on her back and massaging her thigh that rested across his body. Her head lay back against his chest as they both sat in pleasurable silence with the sounds of the world around them filling up the space. Soon the waiter had come back taking their plates while handing over the dessert menu excitedly to Simone. After a few words of banter between the two regarding Simone's ability to race through each course, she managed to decide what she wanted and placed the order. And they sat like that in peace with him enjoying the soft skin of her thighs and the scent of her hair in his nose. She relished in the feel of his hands upon her while she indulged in a richly concocted Tiramisu. He looked down at her using his claws to brush a piece of hair out of her face while she indulged in life.
"You are spoiled you know."
She looked up at him and took a piece of her dessert on the spoon. She held it up to his lips with a gentle smile watching as he ate it hold and cleaned the spoon thoroughly. "I know." She responded as he leaned down and kissed her firmly on the lips.
Saturday –The Evening of the Tashio Celebration
Everything was amazingly well put well together. The tall porcelain male adjusted his diamond cuff links before looking at his platinum Breguet watch for the time. Sesshomaru and Simone were very early arriving to the large mansion designed by French-Japanese architect Hastumomi Parquiez that night prior to the event. The building was ornate in design with very large columns and hand painted ceilings utilizing golds and pastoral colors giving it a very regal setting. The wooden doors were embroidered with intricate designs of gardens with gold leafs decorating the scene. He stood in the West Wing where his family would reside after the events of the night separate from the gala held on the other side of the building.
Sesshomaru's ears picked up sounds from the front of the mansion where all the work was being done. Already so many scents wafted in making him quite curious of her design palate. Floral scents mixed with cooked meats and spices made for an interesting night he gathered. Sesshomaru didn't look to see what she did however with all the patches of fabric and nightly phone calls she made to florists in Taiwan, it did leave him in curiosity to see the results of her labor.
Simone made sure he did not see her at all during the morning as she had left before day break to see to the large event's creation. His hearing could pick up the sounds of her running about and giving out directions to perform certain tasks to her tastes. Cherries filled the foyer that he now stood in revealing her earlier movements around the entire mansion. She had asked that he not come looking for her and to relax as much as possible. He however broke that rule around noon when he could feel through the mating mark her growing anxiety. He arrived in one of the sitting rooms to see her debating between security and the press regarding admissions for an additional employee onto the property. Her hair was rolled into large pink rollers and her body was dressed in black capris and a loose black shirt. Her face held no makeup revealing a freshly annoyed expression. She gasped seeing him enter into the room and approach them with haste. The two men grew silent upon his entry and bowed in waiting.
His glare landed harshly on them for their impudence in the matter especially having caused the woman a bit of stress. "No one else is allowed entry and that is final." He spoke with words slicing through them much like his sharp Bakusaiga would through the flesh of his enemy. He didn't catch their quick bows as he casually lifted the petite woman into his arms and made his way back to his side of the mansion. She of course was unruly in his arms and begged for him to let her go but eventually she relaxed and managed to be coaxed into a 30 minute nap followed by an intense pelvic massage that led her into an hour nap later. Of course she warned him about messing up her hair which caused him to laugh out loud at one point. Sesshomaru found her to be brilliantly beautiful despite the contraptions she had in her head for the sake of vanity.
A smirk played on his lips from the memory and he waited at the end of the stairs for the woman to come out of her changing room. The sound of a door creaking open upstairs was heard and the scent of his mate washed over him in a gentle caress. His eyes took her figure in and softened at her stunning guise. Her brilliantly dark Zac Posen midnight blue ball gown looked amazing on her figure. Her hair was pinned up in curls on top of her head with a few dangling about her face. The dress shimmered brilliantly among the lights of the house as she moved to stand in front of the stairs to gaze down at him. The bodice held a sweet heart neckline with ruc hing that went into a basqued waist and dropped into a full length gown flare. Crustal straps clung to the sides of her dress as a design element. On her neck sat the diamond gift he had left on her earlier dazzling and complimenting her unique beauty. His mark sat proudly on her neck for all to see; swelling him full with pride. Smiling smoky eyes sparkled looking down at him from the top and with grace she made her decent down the stairs. As she walked her dress moved indicating that there was more to the dress's construction than meets the eye.
His golden eyes trailed after her soaking into her light. She had made it to the last few steps when his hand reached out to guide her down the rest. She took his hand gently and let him lead her down safely to his side. Her warm caramel colored eyes looked up at him through dark black lashes and she smiled clearly taken aback as much as he was. Her eyes took in the high silky ponytail and trailed down to his shiny black oxford shoes. His black suit held fine detailing from the richness of the dark satin color and the precise stitching. Underneath the jacket she could see a silver satin vest with a crisp white shirt. A diamond moon pendent sat in front of his collar. Her eyes caught a bit of color in his shirt and tentatively she reached up to peel back the black layer. Her eyes danced in joy to see his shirt held the same red octagon designs on the shoulders and moving down into his biceps from his previous days in the feudal era. She also saw the label inside and was very impressed with the Ermenegildo Zegna masterpiece. She placed it back gently smoothing it of any wrinkles she might have caused. His silk silver tie lay in the center completing his look.
Her lips moved to say something but she found herself incapable of speaking her mind at that moment. An odd and rare occurrence by far. Her chest rose heavily as she took a deep breath to gather her wits about her. Her mouth and stuttered on the oxygen in take. She tried again but was defeated by his lips that captured her own into silence. She moaned appreciatively giving herself into the kiss and expressing how she felt through physical contact. Sesshomaru's hand came up to rest on her waist and pull her towards him while the other held her back in a firm embrace. After a moment they broke apart slowly separating from the other.
Simone smiled and released the built-up tension in her shoulders. "Thank you for the compliment." She breathed choosing to step away from him for a moment's repose. Her hand lifted to touch the necklace he had given her and she smiled. "And thank you for the gift. I thought I was dreaming still when I woke up from my nap draped in diamonds." She whispered. More like she had a panic attack and went looking for bags and receipts to things.
"I hope I didn't disappoint." She expressed pulling at the long gown watching his fascinated gaze hover on her body heatedly.
"The only thing better is seeing you in absolutely nothing at all." He expressed bending down to kiss her again. His scent filled her nose and her hands came up to grip his chest. A few moments passed and they had to fight to keep their hands off of each other again. Sesshomaru debated the idea of simply hauling her up the stairs and locking themselves in for the rest of the night.
Sensing his burning desire she stepped further away to put space within them. She brushed her dress and smiled practically glowing. "Well I'm glad you like this look. You saw for yourself. I was a mess all day helping and trying not to ruin my curls from my appointment this morning. Everyone got a good laugh at me I think; to see me running around with pink hair rollers, colored hair clips, and dressed so laid back." She muttered laughing at herself from the memory.
"This Sesshomaru officially hates your hair rollers and that scarf you wrap around your hair." He stated really not liking that she had to go to such measures to change her natural attributes. He loved her curls which was a perfect metaphor to her personality. Beautiful, exotic, and untamed summed her up just nicely. Conformity or these silly actions taken for vanity was not something he wanted to witness anytime soon after that noon.
She looked at him and smiled at his acceptance of her. She grabbed his hand and pulled him along towards the back. They walked in silence around the house up towards the front entry way where the guests and press would be entering. Regardless of their situation now, this still was her passion and what she loved to do. This event would most likely be the testimony to her skills and added to her body of work for her business. She looked up at him and smiled nervously. "I hope you love it. Tell me what you think after ok. If you don't like something, I can fix it immediately," She shyly looked away and beamed. "Don't sugarcoat either."
"Hm" was all he said before he bent down to kiss her on her forehead and then proceeded forward. She closed her eyes savoring the moment before she was pulled along after him tentatively.
His eyes couldn't believe what he was seeing and he decided her skills were spectacular and worth every penny. She held his hand and started at the entrance where a long royal blue carpet was rolled out along a stony path towards a large stony moon gated entry way. Vines and flowers covered the stony entry wall making it look as if it was a very sequestered entrance. On the sides were roped areas where the press would be standing and adjacent to it was a long white, gold, and silver step and repeat board with various sponsored names and of course the Tashio crescent moon emblem hanging largely in the backdrop. They walked down the path through the moon gate to see the royal blue runner continue through a small garden with two long white marble rectangular ponds lining the way with floating candles and flowers on top. The pools were draped in vines and an array of flowers that entwined and mingled around giant old trees that shaded the area. As he walked he could see the trees shining with small lights that looked a lot like fireflies. Upon closer inspection he realized that is what they were exactly. Fireflies danced around small tea light candles in the trees enjoying the heat and the light given by their natural ancestor. They followed the path until they came in front of another archway adorned with foliage and flowers with a very old blue crescent moon emblem above the entrance. Two gentlemen that were conversing outside the door hurried to the front and pulled them back. They stepped through together and she looked up to catch his reaction. She took in the quick lift in his eyes that traveled over the room in a sweeping motion. She didn't quite know what to make of it.
Sesshomaru surveyed the room not sure if he voyaged through a magic portal or was experiencing the effects of witchcraft. The ceiling sparkled like the sky from his days back when life was simpler and technology had yet to find them. Giant trees and vines were all over the venue and appealed to his instincts and desire to see the forests. As he walked forward he went through several archways of vines and flowers that connected one tree to the other high above.
A small manicured bush broke up the area where a band was practicing their keys and toning their instruments. The conductor caught sight of them and beamed brightly before bowing in recognition. He stood erect and tapped his baton on the podium to gain his musicians attention. They all looked up to him and began to play a selection from Sebastian Bach. Simone smiled in thanks before she could feel herself being guided by the waist onwards. The floor was covered by an array of both long rectangular and round tables with wooden and plush padded chairs wrapped in gold fabric. In the corners were small sitting areas with couches and ottomans with very intricate embroidery and detailing. He walked towards the tables and looked at the details that touched every piece from the silverware to the embossed placement notes that held the Western crest on the front. The tables held white linens and rustic gold napkins that were embroidered with the royal colors of his Western Lands. Waterford crystal glass and beautiful deep gold and blue chinaware sat on the tables. In the center of each table were very large baroque vase centerpieces filled with giant leaves, exotic flowers, and Swarovski crystals that spilled from the sides and dangled from the pieces. Scentless candles were everywhere lighting the room in a very intimate goldish color to break up the dark black-blues of the imitation night sky.
"So this is what midnight in an enchanted garden looks like?" He spoke and pulled her into his arms lovingly watching her dazzle among the lights surrounding her.
She smiled contentedly up at him. "It is the closest I could get to it." She whispered loving the feel of his cool lips on her forehead as he held her to him. The waiters and waitresses were on the sides of the room preparing for orders and watching in wonderment at the display of affection between the two. They each shared a glance a little taken aback by the scene between the American and the Japanese man.
"So what do you think?" she asked holding her breath and waiting for his reply.
He looked around one more time at everything about him. From the high vaulted hand painted ceilings to the large shimmering dance floor. His eyes looked down at her catching her wide eyes and the rough treatment her teeth were paying to her once glossed bottom lip. He leaned down one more time to kiss her and stare into her eyes. "I fear after tonight I won't see you as much. I believe there will be war ignited for the use of your services here in Japan."
She grinned up at him and exhaled lovingly. "Well, I guess I should consider a more permanent establishment here in Japan then. Maybe work on building a staff while I'm at it."
He chuckled and lifted her ring finger into his hand watching it shine brightly among the candle lights. "But that can wait. You are still my secretary and you have not sent in a letter of resignation. This Sesshomaru does not let go so easily."
"I know." She simply stated as they walked around the room looking at everything a bit more in detail. She showed him the hidden up-lighting along the walls and columns and introduced him to her production crew that she had found here in Japan. She reviewed with him the menu and he was even present when she greeted the cake decorators that loaded off an 8 tier towered cake. Sesshomaru was indeed in awe of her work. Everything looked so elegant and effortlessly put together. A few crew members were still doing minor touchups and asked for her opinion on smaller matters. But for the most part, they were alone to enjoy the space by themselves. However their time alone together had ended. The sound of more and more people arriving let them know that their time alone had ended. She placed an earpiece in her ear and the receiver underneath a layer of her dress so she could hear the concerns of the staff on the same frequency. She walked with Sesshomaru back towards their ward of the mansion where they waited patiently for the guests to arrive. They sat down comfortably in their room listening as their companions made their way downstairs towards the event. Simone's mom had called her to congratulate her on a job well done and that turned into an excited Q&A session about Sesshomaru who she absolutely adored but voiced that he was a bit stiff but to her embarrassment. Her radio would go off and a few questions were asked regarding a few attendees. The sounds of a crowded affair had reached their ears. They could no longer stay back and had to make their way towards the gala.
"Well we must go now." She stated squaring her shoulders and preparing to step through the doors. A firm hand held her waist and ushered her hand to rest on his bicep. He nodded down at her and she smiled and winked playfully up at him. "Into battle we go." She spoke jokingly as he flexed his clawed hand threateningly making her laugh. He pushed open the doors and they walked around to the front of the mansion very slowly. A few guests were already mopping up the attention and talking back to the reporters. It wasn't long before they were noticed and the sea of paparazzi began flashing their cameras and throwing out questions at the pair. Simone stood proudly next to her mate allowing the public to take their pictures. There was a lot of security detail present keeping a tight line between them and the public. She looked out to see not just reporters were present but even civilians were standing outside in large groups trying to see all those attending the talked about event of the year. Luxury cars, limos, and the like pulled up causing quite the commotion. However, the screams and joyous yells of the public rang in her ears. The chanting of her name was heard and soon everyone was doing it making her blush and wave in embarrassment at the extra attention. A gentle nudge on her waist encouraged her to walk down the path towards the venue again and she smiled up the man keeping her grounded. He bent low and whispered into her ear.
"Come Cinderella." His gentle breath brushed the tips of her ears making her shudder at his provocation. His breath blew against her mark making her gasp and hold onto his arm for support. She smiled coyly up at him at the nickname given to her by the people.
"You shouldn't do that. You know that drives me crazy." She whispered following alongside of him watching the people enter the venue. The feeling between her thighs warmed her as she tried her best to hide it.
"I have no intentions of stopping." He responded back quickly watching her gasp and look around to make sure no one could hear their conversation.
They walked inside the event together for the second time that evening. This time however, it was filled with people dressed in their best attire and flirtatious behavior. Diamonds and jewels glittered around the bodies of women dressed in their designer dresses clearly there to impress the masses and the ton. The men mingled together patting each other on the back and rubbing shoulders with those that they had yet to meet. Employees from the company sat at tables clearly enjoying their time together while whispering about the others they weren't so fond of to their neighbors. The venue was filled with people laughing, talking, gossiping, etc. Everyone already seemed to be enjoying themselves quite well as the champagne flutes floated around the room. They took a step in before the sound of applause broke out. They walked and the clapping grew until suddenly they were surrounded by the sound and cheery expressions from around the room. A few words of appraisal and whistles where heard for Simone who was even more humbled by their expressions of appreciation.
When they came further into the room, they were greeted by Inutashio, Izayoi, Shugurai and Lady Akimi. Both men were outfitted exceptionally well making every male in the room pale in comparison. Inutashio wore a silver suede suit with his hair up like his son and Shugurai donned a dark blue suit with silver accents and his long blue hair simply hung down his back. Izayoi donned a light one shoulder, pink A-line satin tulle Azzi and Osta gown. Her long inky black hair was pulled high into a giant bun and her makeup was very light and dewy. Lady Akimi wore a Marchessa Notte Over Again black gown with nude undertones. Her hair was pulled back into a low ponytail with a smoky eye. Both women glittered with jewels and held their own version of enthusiasm on their faces.
"Simone, this is fantastic!" Izayoi exclaimed stepping forward to exchange kisses on the cheek. "And your dress is fabulous!"
Lady Akimi held up her champagne flute in recognition. "Of course, I taught her everything." She spoke winking at Simone who just laughed and bowed in acceptance of their appraisal.
"You have certainly outdone yourself." Inutashio spoke reaching for her hand and kissing it lightly before she was hugged gently by Shugurai.
"Simone-chan!" She watched as Rin came over dragging the tie of the brown headed kitsune who looked a bit out of sorts. Her edgy bright yellow Giambattista Valli gown flowed behind her revealing her legs as she walked forward. She rushed over and gave her a hug while Shippo greeted her sheepishly clearly trying to recover from Rin's attentions. Her peach lipstick sat on the side of his lips and he was working himself in frenzy trying to get it off. Simone simply hugged them both and smiled warmly.
"Thanks so much everyone!" she said with such joy in her spirit. Of course we will have to get through the meal first before I can really celebrate. You would be surprised what could happen during the last hour of the event." She explained with a sigh.
"I'm sure it will be fine!" Izayoi consoled massaging her arms and patting her hand in reassurance.
"Oi, Party planner!"
Everyone watched to see the youngest sibling make his way over with his friends and his mate. Sesshomaru glared at him for his inappropriate nickname. That was of course before she responded quickly shocking them all at their easygoing banter.
"Yes, loyal paper weight! Come here!"
Sesshomaru watched shockingly as the Inu brought up his fist and she pounded it in greeting. The Inu was dressed in a very black Valentino silk suit with his silver undershirt left without a vest. The top two buttons of his shirt was left open giving him a laidback but very sophisticated look. His long shiny silver hair was pulled into a low loose ponytail behind him. Kagome rushed over in her brilliantly red Rami Kadi draped silk jacquard gown. Her long hair was pulled very high in a long ponytail with simple tear drop diamonds on her ears. Miroku donned a black Armani suit with purple accent tones and his wife Sango wore a black and floral designed Zuhair Murad gown with a deep plunging neckline. Her hair was pulled back and left to hang down her back like a curtain. Both came over and exchanged greetings and congratulations on the event.
"Thank you." She said again with a blush on her cheeks at all the praise. She felt giddy surrounded by her extended family and friends.
"I would like to renew our mating ceremony just so we can have another event like this." Kagome exclaimed showing off everything while Inuyasha shook his head and mouthed the words. 'No' and 'Not on your life.'
"How did you do it?" Kagome asked.
Simone leaned over to Sesshomaru catching his attention and she smiled. Her hand was placed lightly on his chest showing off her moon engagement ring to wide eyes. "Budget my friends."
Everyone in the group laughed watching as Sesshomaru simply hugged her to him in response. A gasp erupted from the girls and they reached out to see her hand. She could hear speaking and suddenly she touched her ears watching them talk about her ring. Everyone took note of the tiny device and she smiled. "Excuse me for one moment. I am needed in the kitchen." She looked to the group and laughed. "I told you. The food is always the one for drama." They all nodded and watched her lift her dress from the floor to avoid being trampled and make her way through the crowd. They watched the people acclaim and some men even stopped her to request her hand in a dance. Very gracefully she declined and managed to disappear beyond the walls of the venue.
"She's amazing." Sango voiced looking around at everything. "I wouldn't know where to start with all of this."
"And a very warm congratulations to you Sesshomaru for your mating." Miroku spoke watching everyone turn to look up at the great Inu.
"Hm." He acknowledged and the excitement around them grew. They all were shocked at first upon arrival and inspection of their friend to see his mark rest boldly on her neck in full display to the world. To see her hand with a giant engagement ring was just a cherry on top.
"When were you going to tell us?" Lady Akimi asked cutting into him with her hardened gaze.
Sesshomaru simply shrugged it off he spoke eyeing the door from where she disappeared. "You know now."
Simone sighed happily at having dodged a bullet between the chef and a hyper-allergic guest who was just concerned about the food. She calmed the guest down and told him that his dining tonight was taken care of and that she prepared for this with a separate menu. After a few minutes of reassurance she emerged back into the party. She watched as the couples danced elegantly on the dance floor to the music of the band that played so gracefully. She took note of Mr. Hirakama clearly enjoying a story he was telling very loudly regarding some battle near a mountain pass. He seemed to be a bit livelier and from the red hues of his cheeks, he was clearly indulging that night. Her eyes lit up at the smiling faces and warm greetings she witnessed before finding the flicker of silver at a distance. She made to step out past the entrance before she was blocked by tall man in her way.
"May I have this dance?" He asked with dark smoldering brown eyes raking her from top to bottom.
Simone stood still and gazed up at the demon. A shudder ran through her and she instantly recognized who he was. His black tux and long black hair shined even in the shadows where they stood. His black gloved hand lay waiting for her to take. A cold chill ran deep in her bones at the gentleness of his smile. Her hand tentatively raised unsure if she should run or just push through the waltz with him. Her senses screamed inside that something was wrong. He seemed to move closer shielding her view of the crowd beyond the door or maybe it was the other way around. Her muscles tensed and her smile grew tight before she opened her mouth watching him move closer.
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