Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this odd little story… especially for the one with a bitter smile. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Chapter 38
A Cold Dose of Reality
"Don't let the attention go to your head," Kikyou remarked as she offered her cousin a plate of raspberry tarts.
"Wh-what?" Kagome stammered.
"Don't tell me you haven't noticed; woman always notice."
"I'm really not sure what…"
"They're after you, but not for you," Kikyou said, her words cutting across Kagome's denial. "They've all wanted Sesshoumaru since they were children—ambitious boys after a toy."
"How can you be so sure?"
"Three years ago, I was the one they all pursued," she said, smiling bitterly.
Whether Kikyou was trying to be cruel or kind, the implications sent Kagome's mind reeling.
End Note: This story in snippets owes some of its structure to the Live Journal community 100colors, which offers a tempting palette of prompts. This particular 'perfect' drabble benefited from Color #51, Raspberry. Posted on June 25, 2009, with thanks to Fenikkusuken, mine beta.