All the sarcastic retorts Byakuya had stored away were forgotten as colour bloomed between the stripes on Sesshoumaru's cheeks. The stoic daiyoukai ran a hand through his hair, slanting his body enough to hide his face.
"Perhaps. Now and—"
"All the time," Byakuya cut in, crossing the kitchen to put the remaining cutlery in the dishwasher. "Though it didn't start out that well." Sesshoumaru's blush only deepened at Kagome's knowing chuckle, and Byakuya had to stop himself from laughing outright.
He'd never use it against him, but he was glad his boss had a weakness—especially one as good-natured, and good-looking, as Kagome.
"I'll forgive you for that, considering how delicious the soup was," she said with a wink.
"How gracious of you," Sesshoumaru grumbled, loosening the collar of his chef whites.
"It's the least I can do." She casually shrugged her shoulders and leaned back against the counter, a becoming albeit cheeky smile on her face.
This time Byakuya did laugh, mirth dancing in his eyes. "I think you're my new favourite person, Kagome."
"Really? I've only been here a few minutes."
"You have that effect on people," Sesshoumaru said, glaring at the pastry chef when he casually asked for Kagome's number.
"It's so I can let her know when you're talking about her again!" Byakuya said gleefully.