Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this small story… especially for the one with haunted eyes. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Safe
Kohaku hesitated on the fringes of their circle, solemn eyes sliding from one face to the next. No one looked up or made a fuss, and for once, no one directed him toward a seat… so he chose.
Kagome and Sango covertly watched the boy, then glanced at Miroku, whose waggling brows easily communicated an I told you so. Miroku had noticed the small signs of preference first, and he'd brought his suspicions to the girls, advising them to give Kohaku more space.
"He may be young, but your brother is no longer a child. He was strong enough to rebel against Naraku; let him find his feet so he can stand with us."
They agreed to stop mothering Kohaku, but his interest in Sesshoumaru was baffling. "I don't understand," admitted Sango. "He's the least approachable person here!"
"Sesshoumaru-sama is likeable enough," defended Kagome. Miroku smirked at that, and she hastily added, "Just look at Rin!"
"Could he feel indebted to Sesshoumaru-sama?" Sango wondered.
"Maybe Sesshoumaru-sama makes him feel safe," suggested Kagome.
Miroku shook his head, amused by the revelations hidden in their speculations. "Given the chance, I'll ask," he promised.
The next day, the monk found his opportunity. "You seem very comfortable around our taiyoukai, Kohaku-kun." The boy merely shrugged, so Miroku pressed, "Is it gratitude?"
"No."
"Perhaps you feel safe when he is near?"
Kohaku's head came up, and Miroku caught the haunted look in his eyes. "No."
"What, then?" he gently coaxed.
"He is safe from me."
End Note: This drabble was written for the Live Journal community iyfic(underscore)contest and their theme for Week 159—Rebel. First posted to Live Journal on September 20, 2008. 250 words.