Sorry this took so long. I'd hoped to have it up in a week at the most, but then my computer got a virus and I had to send it in for a clean up. Sigh… I need a Mac.
Hope you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha.
Chapter 20: Dance With Me?
After weeks of anxiousness Kagome could finally heave a sigh of relief. The young journalist had been running herself into the ground with the extra workload, preparations for the auction having taken much more out of her than she had originally expected. 'I'll get to have a full night's sleep tonight!' she thought excitedly.
She couldn't help but wiggle restlessly as she waited for her date to arrive, nervousness fluttering in her stomach like a swarm of butterflies. She plucked at the hem of her dress, hoping she looked alright.
Kagome cast another glance at the mirror the hung on the wall in the entryway, checking her reflection for any last minute touch-ups that might need to be made. She supposed she looked alright, though considering who her escort was she doubted anyone would notice. People who stood next to Sesshomaru Taisho tended to look average at best.
His otherworldly beauty made him shine like a beacon, all eyes drawn to him the second he came into view. It really wasn't fair. 'It should be illegal to be that attractive,' Kagome groused, pouting at herself in the mirror as she fiddled with a ringlet of her hair.
A sharp knock cut into her brooding, and she gave herself a quick once over before scurrying to the door. Sucking in one last breath in an attempt to sooth her frazzled nerves, the young journalist steeled her resolve and turned the doorknob.
Shock didn't even begin to describe what she felt upon seeing him standing on her front step, looking like every woman's wet dream. She'd seen him in suits before, but tonight he appeared different, his countenance void of the usual stoic expression she'd seen him wearing while at work. His features seemed softer, more relaxed; the overall affect made him look laid back and seductive.
As her eyes slowly skimmed him from head to toe, she noted with delight that he was wearing shades of grey that would compliment her own outfit. 'While I might not look as good as he does, at least we'll match!' she told herself.
A knee length overcoat accentuated his tall frame and powerfully built shoulders, the buttons left undone. His suit was dark, polished black shoes only slightly darker, and the cool tone complimented his fair complexion and opalescent hair, making them stand out in stark contrast. The shirt he wore beneath was a pale grey, tie a rich saffron that nearly matched his eyes.
"Wow," she whispered huskily. "You look amazing."
Smiling at the breathy note of her voice, Sesshomaru extended a hand to cup her blushing cheek, murmuring softly, "As do you."
Kagome waved a dismissive hand, chuckling, "Not anywhere near as good as you do. I'm going to feel pretty homely walking in with you."
Taisho shook his head, fingers skating along the delicate line of her jaw. "You're far too modest, Kagome. You are a vision of loveliness."
Before she had a chance to make what he was certain would be a skeptical remark, he leaned forward and stole her full lips in a gentle, coaxing kiss. His tongue teased the seam of her mouth, never quite venturing far enough to fully taste her, but just enough to leave her breathless and wanting more.
He pulled away, smiling when she gave a throaty sigh before pouting at him.
"You're a terrible tease, you know that? I thought it was the woman's job to do all the teasing."
He chuckled lowly, telling her, "We should probably get going."
"Right," Kagome conceded, turning to slip into her shoes.
Taisho watched her bend gracefully to step into her heels, smoldering eyes trained on her every motion. She was indeed a vision tonight. The wavy mass of her swarthy hair was pinned high on her head, curled at the tips to form small ringlets that framed her face and teased the flesh at the back of her neck. Her lissome body was encased in a deep grey satin, the color only a few shades lighter than his suit. The dress was modestly cut, ending just above the knee with a scooped neckline. It molded over her body like a lover would, the fabric hugging every curve. He'd never seen her look sexier.
Pulling on a pair of black, bandage strap heels, Kagome stood and tugged at the bottom of her dress, snatching her clutch from the chair next to the coat closet. "Ready when you are!" she announced cheerfully.
"Before we leave," the pale man said as he reached into his pocket, "I have something for you." He withdrew his hand, a small velvet case cradled in his palm.
Kagome blinked, looking down at the little container with wide, surprised eyes. He'd gotten her a gift? "You didn't have to do that," she told him.
He smiled, assuring her, "I know, but I wanted to."
A pretty blush stained her cheeks, and she carefully extracted the small box from Taisho's large hand. Flipping the lid up, Kagome couldn't help but gasp upon seeing its contents.
A pair of beautiful teardrop earrings was encased in the white, satin lining, shimmering under the lamp light that illuminated the entryway. One pear cut diamond was mounted on each stud, the brilliant yellow stones that dangled from them nearly the same color as his tie.
"Oh my god!" the young journalist all but shouted. "Sesshomaru, I can't accept these!"
He could have laughed at her reaction, finding her antics rather charming. "You most certainly can. They'll suit you marvelously."
"It's not that I don't like them," she explained, "but it's just too much. You don't have to spend this kind of money on me!"
Taisho reached forward, taking one of her small hands in his and lifting it to his lips. Placing a small kiss against her knuckles, her purred, "I like to buy you things. The cost is of no consequence."
She opened her mouth to protest, and he held up a finger to stop her from doing so. "Do not argue with me on this, Kagome. It would be rude of you to refuse my generosity."
She gave him a flat look, but remained otherwise silent.
"Good. Now, put them on," he instructed, releasing her hand so that she could complete the task.
Huffing in defeat, the raven haired woman moved to the mirror and removed the jewelry from its casing. When she finished fastening them she took a step back and admired her reflection, thinking that – while she didn't entirely feel comfortable about accepting something so expensive from him – the color did compliment her eyes. "They're beautiful," she told him. "What are they?"
"Gold sapphires," he responded while slipping her coat from the hanger, helping her into it and then offering her an arm. "Shall we?"
She grinned at him, sliding her hand to the crook of his elbow. Locking the door, she glanced up the walkway to where his black Mercedes was parked along the curb. She gave an appreciative hum, murmuring softly, "I haven't been in this one yet."
Sesshomaru quirked a brow. "I'm sure you'll find it a suitable means of transportation."
"Uh-huh," the little female droned while mimicking his expression, one slender brow disappearing behind the fringe of her bangs.
Like a true gentleman, Taisho opened the passenger door for her, making a coy smile slide across her lips. "Thank you," Kagome mumbled while sliding into her seat.
Once they were on the road, Sesshomaru inclined his head slightly in her direction, eyes still trained on the road as he questioned, "I've been meaning to ask… what exactly does your company auction?"
"Oh!" she exclaimed, steely-blue orbs widening as she realized that she had indeed neglected to tell her date the details of the event. "I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to-"
"Its fine, Kagome, really," Sesshomaru insisted. "Now, are you going to tell me?"
"Well… we auction art. Jakotsu is quite the accomplished painter."
He was mildly surprised by the piece of information. "I had not been aware. I've never seen any of his works."
Kagome shrugged. "He's not really looking for recognition. He paints mostly for pleasure, though he doesn't have a lot of time to do it. Almost all of his stuff gets auctioned off at the company's annual party; proceeds go to the housing projects in Africa."
"A worthy cause," he noted, recalling that he'd seen that tidbit of information while reading up on her before.
"I've always enjoyed helping those less fortunate," Kagome told him, "and Jak shares that passion. He doesn't make any kind of profit from the auction, but he's been doing it for seven years now."
"Does he pay for the entire thing out of his own pocket?"
"Well the money made from the bidding goes to charity, as you know. All the money spent on renting the space, catering, decorating, invitations, and entertainment comes from Jak. It costs him a pretty penny, but his company is successful enough that it doesn't put too big a dent in his bank account."
"Your employer seems like a good man," Sesshomaru mused aloud.
"Oh, he is!" she responded with gusto, "Jak is amazing!"
There was a pause afterward, and when Taisho peered out the corner of his eye to see what had silenced his passenger, he found her staring out the window, a listless, sad expression on her face. "What is the matter?"
Kagome blinked, realizing she had spaced out momentarily and apologizing, "Sorry about that. It's just that… I feel really bad for him. He's been going through a rough time… and for him to have to worry about the party on top of everything else he's dealing with. I can't imagine how he managed it."
When she noticed Sesshomaru's quizzical glance, she elucidated, "Two of his brothers died recently. They worked for the TMPD and died while on duty. It wasn't all that long ago… he's been so strong."
A frown creased his brow as he recalled seeing an article in the paper detailing the murder of two police officers who had been responding to a noise complaint. An image of the Sato brother's passed behind his eyes, the faces of the two young boys they had murdered accompanying it. Had they been responsible for the death of the policemen as well… or had it been this other reviver that continued to elude them?
He supposed it didn't matter. 'Now is not the time to be thinking of such things,' he told himself as he glanced at his lovely young companion.
"That is very unfortunate," Taisho said lowly. "Did you know them as well?"
Kagome shook her head. "I'd met them once before, but I didn't know them. It just hurts me to see Jakotsu in so much pain. He's a good friend of mine."
He could tell that her mood was rapidly deteriorating. "Perhaps it would be best if you didn't think of that now," he suggested.
"Yeah," she agreed readily, "it wouldn't do for me to be depressed all night. It would only make things harder for Jak… and god knows he's going to be trying his damndest to keep in good spirits all evening. He doesn't need my negativity weighing on him too."
The silhouette of their destination appeared before them, the jutting angles of the modern structure unmistakable. From the looks of the lot it was already rather busy. Kagome smiled, pleased with the turnout.
Finding a parking spot close to the doors had been impossible, and as they made the long trek to the entrance the young woman couldn't help the insecure feelings that settled at the forefront of her mind once again. Despite Sesshomaru's assurances that she looked lovely, Kagome felt plain and lacking while strolling next to the living Adonis. With hair that looked as though it had been spun from moonbeams and a face that would turn any angel green with envy, Sesshomaru Taisho looked like a veritable god among mortals.
'Oh well,' she thought, 'it's not like I'm trying to win a beauty pageant or anything.'
The massive foyer was bustling with people, all mingling aimlessly until it was time for the bidding to begin. There were many new faces in the crowd this year, the journalist noted as they stepped through the threshold. Several of the city's independently wealthy were in attendance, obviously having heard word of Jak's talent.
Kagome wondered if her cousin was there yet. She was anxious to meet Inuyasha, and curious to watch the interaction between the half-brothers. She hoped they would be able to put their differences aside for the night and be civil toward one another.
Sesshomaru watched carefully as several heads turned upon their entrance, many of which were not for him. Numerous men eyed his date with appreciation and desire before flicking their gazes jealously at him. He smirked and peered down at Kagome, not surprised to find her completely oblivious to the attention she was receiving.
They handed their outerwear over to the man working the coat room, Kagome throwing both of their coat tickets into her clutch before setting off in search of someone she knew. The blue-eyed woman grinned animatedly when she caught sight of a few familiar faces among the masses. Looking up at Sesshomaru, she told him, "There are a few people I'd like to introduce you to."
He nodded, motioning for her to lead the way and following along silently as she pulled him through the crowd. They approached a group of four, Kagome dislodging herself from his arm as they neared.
"Hello m'dear!" Sango greeted jubilantly as she embraced her friend.
"Thank you for coming!" Kagome responded, stepping back and drawing her date alongside her.
She lifted a hand and motioned to each of her friends. "This is Sango, Miroku, Kouga, and Ayame." Then, looking up at the handsome man next to her, she finished, "You guys, this is Sesshomaru."
Miroku was the first to muster up enough courage to shake his hand. "We've heard so much about you."
A pale brow quirked in response to the statement; he stole a glance at the little journalist from the corner of his eye. She blushed, but gave a casual shrug.
"Good to finally get to meet the man who's been taking up so much of our Kagome's time!" Sango beamed as she extended her own hand in greeting.
Once the introductions out of the way, the raven-haired woman took note of the absent party. "Where's Shippou tonight?"
Ayame smiled, chuckling, "Oh, he's here. At the moment he's towing his date around the room somewhere, probably tugging her arm out of its socket and talking her ear off while doing so."
"Thank god for small favors," Kouga murmured as he crossed his arms. "With her to occupy him, I don't have to worry about his mischief tonight. I'd like to enjoy my evening and not have to worry about him lighting my hair on fire or any such nonsense."
"He wouldn't do that!" Kagome denied on her friend's behalf.
The tanned male lifted a dubious brow and hummed, remarking in a clipped tone, "It seems you've forgotten the Christmas party from hell."
The young woman blinked, drawling quietly, "Oh yeaaaaah." That had been quite the fiasco.
Two years prior the lot of them had gathered at Sango and Miroku's home for their Christmas get-together. Her mischievous redheaded friend had put away one too many beer that evening, and in his drunken stupor he had decided that it would be funny to light Kouga's ponytail on fire. Said male, in his panicked state, had flailed around frantically, getting too close to the window and setting the drapes aflame.
"Those poor curtains," Kagome murmured to herself as she reminisced, making Kouga flush angrily.
"They were so lovely," Sango sighed.
Miroku held up his hand in a prayer gesture and uttered in mock solemn tones, "May they find peace in the afterlife."
"Hey!" the irate male columnist snapped, "Forget the damn drapes! I almost got fried!"
"But you didn't," Miroku reminded him. "The damage wasn't all that bad. A quick trip to the salon and you were back on your feet!"
Ayame had managed to save Kouga from getting severely burned… by pouring the bowl of punch on his head. Once everything had been brought under control, they had resolved to make certain that Shippou was never in possession of a lighter while exposed to liquor.
Kagome giggled fondly at the memory, turning to her date and explaining, "We're a weird lot. Things can get rather… odd when we get together."
Sesshomaru smiled softly, regarding the woman at his side with a tender fondness he had never experienced before. She was so different from anyone he'd ever met. What had started as a sexual interest and mild curiosity had blossomed into something else, the sunny young woman winding herself into his heart like no other before her. Never in his life had Sesshomaru found enjoyment in something as simple as the company of another.
Her jovial nature drew people to her like a moth to flame, her innocent allure beguiling to even the most cold-hearted being. She had a sort of earthy, natural beauty that was unlike anything he'd ever encountered, a true rarity in a world of fabrications and false loveliness. The women who endeavored to improve their looks by enlarging their lips and breasts couldn't even begin to compare to the gem that was Kagome.
"Well, we should go and find Jakotsu. I'll catch up with you guys later," she told her friends before tugging lightly on Sesshomaru's elbow and leading him into the throng of people. She was sure her employer would be somewhere close to the entrance, greeting people as they arrived. It was likely that he'd been preoccupied with another guest when they came in.
Sure enough, she caught sight of him chatting it up with a young man next to the doors. She smiled brilliantly when he spotted her and gave a little wave, motioning her over.
Jakotsu excused himself and hurried to meet the approaching couple. "Well, don't the two of you look absolutely delightful together," he gushed, placing gentle hands on Kagome's shoulders and kissing her cheek in greeting. Turning to the tall, pale-haired businessman, he extended a hand. "Thank you so very much for coming this evening, Mr. Taisho."
He gave a curt nod, shaking the man's hand and responding, "Kagome tells me you are quite the artist. I am anxious to see your work."
Jak flushed, eyes flicking briefly to Kagome, who winked in response. "Well…" he began, clasping his hands together, "hopefully I don't disappoint you, and you see something that's to your liking."
"I'm sure he will," Kagome put in, her small hand giving a gentle squeeze to the bicep it was resting on.
"Speaking of which," Jak murmured as he glanced at his watch, "I believe its due time that everyone adjourned to the auction room. With this year's turnout I have no doubts that we'll do splendidly!"
Kagome clapped merrily, excitement bubbling in her chest as her employer made the announcement that they were ready to begin. Despite all of the headaches and sleepless nights she'd endured over these past weeks, this moment made it all worth while. Watching their efforts come to fruition always left Kagome feeling satisfied and proud.
Sesshomaru followed his date into a spacious room, where the guests all filed neatly into their appointed seats and took up their numbers. She was so beautiful, and such a joy to be around. A small frown marred his brow as his mind took a more somber turn.
Up until a couple of months ago everything had revolved around his job, his mind occupied with the thoughts of his unnatural existence. At first Kagome had merely been a pleasant distraction, something that helped him to escape from the day-to-day tedium and stress of his life. Now he was sincerely attached to the little woman, the idea of being without her wholly undesirable.
Yet there were always issues. Being what he was he couldn't hope to have a normal relationship with her, and this bothered him greatly. His desires, too, had gone unchecked. For so long he had been unaffected by anyone in a sexual way, and now that his libido had returned… he found himself frustratingly unable to do a damn thing about it. He was too afraid to get that close to her. Memories of what had almost occurred the first time he'd attempted to have sex were an unpleasant but ever present reminder of that danger.
At this point he wasn't entirely certain what to do. Could he continue on with Kagome this way, knowing that he would never be able to touch her and be with her the way he wanted to? It didn't seem fair to him… or to her…
He shook his head as he heard the auctioneer approach the podium. Nothing was fair anymore. However, tonight was not a night for worrying; he would think on the matter another time.
Jak's predictions had been correct, the numbers they'd made this year topping their previous record of two years back. Sesshomaru had attributed a sizable chunk of said profit, now the proud owner of two of Jakotsu's best works.
After the bidding had ended the guests had been moved into the spacious dining hall, where food and drinks had been served. After having helped herself to a few hors d'oeuvres, Kagome had made good on her promise to find her friends again. She felt bad for lugging Sesshomaru around, but he assured her that there was no one here that he wanted to speak with, and that he didn't mind at all.
When she'd located her companions she was pleased to find Shippou with him, a lovely looking Rin standing at his side.
"Kagome!" Shippou cried out as he spotted her nearing. "There you are! I was looking for you earlier."
The boisterous redhead swept her into a friendly hug, chuckling when she batted him away and smoothed out the wrinkles in her dress.
"You should know better than to rumple a lady's outfit, silly boy!" she chastised, wagging a finger playfully.
He rubbed the back of his neck, shrugging as he responded, "Sorry, but I just can't thank you enough for introducing me to this lovely little thing." At that he curled an arm around Rin's waist, making the pretty secretary blush an attractive shade of red.
She smiled at Kagome briefly before turning her eyes to the tall man next to her. "Good to see you, sir."
He waved a hand in a dismissive gesture. "We are not at work, Rin. Please drop the formalities."
Kagome gave another quick glance around the room. "Has anyone seen my cousin?"
"Not yet," Sango answered, adding offhandedly, "It's been so long since I've seen her. How is she doing?"
The journalist smiled. "Well, I would think. She's recently started seeing someone." She paused at that, turning to glance at Sesshomaru before continuing, "Your brother is making Kikyo quite happy, from what I've heard. He's supposed to be here with her tonight."
Something that looked like disdain flashed through his eyes, but it was gone again before she could properly label it. She did notice the tightening of his jaw, however, and gave him a light pat on the chest. "Now, now, be nice."
"I will attempt to be neutral, though I will not be held responsible if he makes a scene," Taisho replied through thinned lips.
The others in the group could hear the distaste dripping from his voice, and when they glanced at Rin and found her wincing they decided it was a topic best left alone. They were quiet for a short time, the lilting music that played filling the small silence.
The journalist thought to herself that the chamber orchestra they had hired this year was lovely, grinning as she listened to the soft, flittering notes of the flute as the instrumentalist performed a short solo. It was relatively small, with only nine musicians, but the music was sublime.
Ayame gave a breathy sigh, snuggling closer to her boyfriend's side as she hummed, "So lovely."
Kouga gave her a dashing smile, offering a hand as he inquired, "Would you like to dance, my sweet?"
She batted her eyelashes at him, lacing her fingers through his. "Lead the way, good sir."
Miroku followed his companions lead, purring, "Sango, my love, would you care to join them?"
She lifted a brow but gave a little nod, telling him in a firm tone, "You just make sure those hands stay at my waist, dear. We're at a public function and I will not have you making a scene with your perverted tendencies."
Kagome watched her friends step out onto the floor with all of the other couples, the orchestra switching to a more upbeat piece that relied heavily on the strings. The smooth, sharp notes of the viola and violin were accompanied by the lower tones of the cello, the combination creating a superb, rich sound that made her heart flutter.
She turned to quirk an eye at Rin, who was casting sideways glances at her date. Shippou looked a little nervous, and Kagome inquired, "Aren't you going to ask her to dance, Shippou?" Before he had a chance to respond, she turned to the pretty little brunette, telling her, "He's rather good; I've seen him dance before."
Rin gave a joyful smile and turned her head to peer up at him, squealing with glee when he blushed and motioned toward the dance floor. This time it was she who towed him into the crowd, leaving an amused Sesshomaru and Kagome in her wake.
"They make such a good couple," she mused aloud, watching her redheaded friend twirl the sprightly young secretary before pulling her close.
"Indeed," Taisho murmured in agreement. "Would you honor me with a dance, Kagome?"
She went wide eyed, gawking up at him like he'd grown a second head. The young woman waved her hands frantically, stammering, "I-I don't think that's such a good idea. I'm not the best dancer."
"Nonsense," he insisted. "You don't have to be good. I will lead, and all you have to do is follow."
A small frown pinched her brow. "I don't know…"
He took her delicate hand in his, running the tips of his fingers along the soft flesh of her palm as he coaxed, "Come now; it's just one dance. I'm not asking for much."
Heaving a sigh of defeat, she gave a little shrug and muttered a noncommittal, "Why not?"
A grin of triumph split his handsome lips, amber eyes flashing briefly as he took her hand and pulled her through the small cluster of people surrounding the dance floor. He turned to face her once they had reached an adequate spot.
"Are you sure about this?" she groaned, attempting to dissuade him. "I'll have you know there are four inch heels on these shoes. Are your toes willing to risk it?"
"You will do fine," he declared as he curved one arm around her waist, the other clasping about the tiny appendage still in his grip.
The nervous woman placed a hand on his arm. "Is this alright?"
He nodded, bending his head to murmur in her ear, "That's fine. Now, relax, and let me lead you." She gave a little squeak as he began, turning them in sweeping circles around the floor.
"I don't believe it," Sango gasped as she caught sight of her friend, pointing when Miroku shot her a questioning look. Both dark brows shot into his hairline when he spotted Kagome. The girl had not danced with a man at any of these functions, so to see her with Taisho on the floor was a great surprise.
The couple smiled broadly at one another, making their way toward Kagome as they danced. Once they were close enough, Miroku called out, "Let me be the first to commend you, Sesshomaru."
The pale man turned his head and gave the couple an inquiring look.
"The fact that you were able to get her out here is very impressive," Sango enlightened, "that's no small feat."
"Go away!" Kagome hissed at them. "You'll make me even more nervous than I already am, and the last thing I want is to do something embarrassing."
Miroku gave a soft chuckle as he winked at the distraught woman, but complied all the same. She watched them move away with no small amount of relief, not up for their teasing at the moment. She was trying hard enough not to make a fool of herself, she didn't need the added stress of knowing that those two were hovering just over her shoulder.
Kagome turned to look up at her date, smiling as she gazed into swimming golden depths of his eyes. This entire ordeal had been going a lot more smoothly than she had anticipated it would. Taisho was a good partner, whisking her around the floor on light feet, his movements graceful despite his height. "You dance beautifully," she told him.
He hummed, giving Kagome a little twirl before pulling her back and responding, "You are doing well for someone who claims to be a terrible dancer."
She squeezed his arm where her hand was perched, informing him, "The only reason I have not fallen flat on my ass is because I have such a brilliant partner. Seriously, did you take lessons?"
He gave a short bark of laughter. "I have no time for those sorts of things," he told her. "Actually, my form is quite off, but I doubt anyone will comment."
"Your form looks pretty fine to me," Kagome purred, blushing when she realized she had said it out loud.
He chuckled hotly in her ear, using the hand that rested on her lower back to pull her nearer. "I've never really cared for dancing," he admitted, "though I might be inclined to change my opinion if it means getting closer to you."
Her blush deepened, blue-grey eyes averting in modesty. As she turned her gaze from him, she caught sight of her cousin standing among the crowd. Kikyo caught her glance, smiling and giving a small wave. The young man standing next to her was handsome, with deep brown eyes and thick, black hair that fell past his shoulders. He was also looking in their direction, though his eyes were pinned to Sesshomaru, his lips set in a tight line.
"Is that your brother?" Kagome asked the businessman. She felt him tense at the question, his head swiveling in the direction she was looking. His brow creased, and a deep hum left his throat.
"We should go see them," the journalist suggested.
"Is it absolutely necessary?" Taisho sneered.
Kagome giggled, stepping back from him as the music slowed, strings giving way to the reverberating notes of the piano. "You might as well get it over with now so we can enjoy the rest of the night. Besides, I have to go and see my cousin, since I'm the one who invited her."
He followed along behind her reluctantly, hoping this would be a brief encounter.
"Here you are!" Kagome announced in a sing-song voice. "I was wondering when I'd find you."
Kikyo opened her arms to embrace the younger woman, glad to have finally located her. When she caught sight of the tall, pale man standing behind Kagome, she started, pulling back to stammer, "This-uh… must be Sesshomaru."
Kagome nodded, stepping aside to allow them a proper greeting. Taisho reached forward and extended a hand.
The slender brunette tried not to shiver as she examined the beautiful being she was being introduced to, placing her hand in his as she addressed him. "It's nice to meet you. I'm Kikyo." She had seen a picture or two of him in papers over the years, but she would have never imagined him to be so intimidating to stand before.
Taisho stepped back alongside his date, sending a flat look at his brother and tilting his head in acknowledgment. "Inuyasha," he murmured lowly.
"Sesshomaru," he grumbled, giving a short nod of his own.
Kagome stepped up to the black-haired male, greeting him with a smile. "I'm Kagome."
His scowl lightened considerably, replaced by a curious look as he gave Kagome a once over. He eyes flicked between her and Kikyo a few time before he muttered, "The two of you look a lot alike."
"We do," Kagome conceded, "people have been telling us that since we were kids."
"Sorry if I worried you. We arrived a little late," Kikyo admitted rather sheepishly.
Kagome lifted an amused brow. "That's twice since you've been here," she noted, her voice full of playful chastisement. Her glance swept to Inuyasha. "What are you doing to my cousin?"
He frowned. "I didn't do anything!"
She chuckled. "Don't worry about it! I was only joking."
The dark-eyed male grit his teeth when he heard his elder sibling scoff. "You got somethin' to say to me?"
Sesshomaru unfolded his arms, looking down his nose at the mouthy brat. Before he had a chance to give a scathing remark, Kagome stepped between the pair of them and put her hands up.
"Whoa, boys, calm down! We don't want to start a fight now."
"A fight's almost guaranteed when you're around someone so stuck up!" Inuyasha growled.
"It is also a likely outcome when in the company of a brash, uncouth boor," was the businessman's clipped remark, his tone venomous and his glare equally threatening.
Kikyo's date looked like he was about ready to deck the pale-haired man, and Kagome decided that enough was enough for the time being. "I think we should separate these two," she told Kikyo, taking Sesshomaru's hand and pulling him back a step.
"I agree," the brunette grumbled as she wound her arm around Inuyasha's.
"Are you free tomorrow?" the journalist asked her,
Kikyo nodded, promising, "I'll call you earlier in the day and we'll set something up."
"Sounds good. Inuyasha, it was nice meeting you. Hopefully next time we'll get to visit a bit more."
Said male nodded to her, offering a lopsided smile that told Kagome he was probably a lot more agreeable than she had first thought. There was a boyish charm to that look, and she bet that he was just a big softy underneath that hard exterior.
'A lot like someone else I know,' she thought to herself while peering up at Sesshomaru, a secretive smile on her face. He wasn't nearly as bad as everyone thought him to be… once you got to know him.
"The party is lovely," Kikyo told her as they turned to head off in the other direction.
Kagome shifted her eyes back to her cousin, waving as she called out, "You two enjoy yourselves! I'll talk to you tomorrow, dear!"
Chuckling as she watched Inuyasha practically drag Kikyo away from them, she turned to Taisho and grinned. "That wasn't so bad, now was it?" He sent her a flat look that had her giggling all over again.
My apologies again, and I'm crossing my fingers that nothing else happens to slow me down. I'm finally starting to get back into a normal sleeping pattern after having my second baby, so I won't be napping as much during the day and will have more time to write.
Please tell me what you think. Was the chapter a disappointment…? Was it okay…? All feedback is welcome.
Also, I'm happy to say that in the next chapter things are going to get intimate between our favorite couple. Just giving you something to look forward to, and another reason to be anxious. I'm sure a lot of you are going to hunt me down and beat me if I don't get it up within the week, so I'll use the thought as motivation. Love to all!