Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for this absurd adventure... especially for the one staring across a cultural gap. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Chapter 50: Wrong Idea
"This way." Kouga walked backwards so he could catch Kagome's reaction as he drew her inside. He was pleased with his efforts, which was really all that mattered, but he wanted to see her face anyhow.
She blinked as her eyes adjusted, and her curious gaze rested briefly on each of his provisions—firewood, fruit, fish, and a mound of furs for sleeping. Crossing to the latter, she ran her fingers experimentally over the thick pelts. "Where did you find all this?"
"It's mine," he admitted gruffly. The display translated to proof of his power, testifying to his ability to both sire and provide for young. Although its significance was lost on a human, she needed rest if she was going to heal. Furs are better than a hammock any day.
"Only one bed?" she ventured.
He blinked, not sure why she might feel slighted. It's plenty big for two. She began fidgeting, so he grumbled, "Out with it."
"Well, there's more room now, so we wouldn't have to share." At his blank expression, she offered, "Normally, I'd never consider sleeping with a guy unless we were married."
Kouga straightened, his tail bristling. "You've been granting me a mate's privilege?"
"I liked the security blanket explanation better," Kagome mumbled.
He loomed closer, voice urgent. "I damn well haven't been courting you!"
"I never thought you were!" Hugging herself, she explained, "It's just that I'm used to having my own bed."
"You don't have family?" the wolf-youkai quizzed.
"No, I do," she corrected. "But we sleep in separate rooms."
"By choice?" he pressed, trying to wrap his head around the idea. "Even the cubs?"
"Babies have cribs."
He swore softly, then vehemently announced, "I'd hate that!"
"But... weren't you alone when we crashed into you?"
Looking away, Kouga grumbled, "Not by choice."
End Note: This chapter was written for the Live Journal community fanfic(underscore)bakeoff and their Secret Ingredient for November 2011—Translate. Posted on November 26, 2011. 300 words.
