A/N: I am so so sorry for the long wait! To reward your patience, this
chappie is over twice as long as any other. Hope you'll forgive me!
Note: Betrayal Chapter 4 should be up soon. I have a whole bunch of
exciting fics in the works! Look for them!
Now the LONG AWAITED 9 PAGE:
Chapter 12: Healing of the Heart
Many weeks had passed since the return of Inuyasha to the village. His wounds had long since healed and not even a scar remained on his physical body. However, he still remained skittish and guarded around people, even Kagome, for his heart was unwilling to risk furthur hurt.
Kagome, Miroku, Sango and Shippo devoted all their time and effort to healing the hanyou's heart and mind. They would engage in play fights that terrorized the villagers and often led them to be forced into repairing the houses and fields they damaged.
On a chance, one day the group had discovered Inuyasha's love for swimming. They had decided to take advantage of the warm autumn day and went down to the river for a picnic. While there, the girls had decided to go swimming and had coaxed the boys into joining them. Kagome had even provided swim suits for the boys so they had no reason to back out. They discovered the intense playfulness of Inuyasha while he swam and were constantly at risk of being dunked by the determined hanyou. On that day, the shadow of sorrow had lifted from his gaze and he became more open and relaxed. However, the apprehention was still there, though greatly diminished.
As fall passed into winter and snow covered the lanscape, Kagome felt the familiar tug of indecision. She had not been home in two months since the fateful incident with Inuyasha, and now Christmas and New Year was coming up. She wanted to celebrate the holidays with her family and assure them that all was well, however, she didn't want to leave Inuyasha while he was still so sensitive. She could never forgive herself if her absence caused him to relapse. Suddenly, an idea came unbidden to her head. It was a risk, but it would solve her problems. With that in mind, Kagome raced out the door of Kaede's hut in search of the hanyou.
***********
As Kagome raced through town, she encountered Miroku and Sango. As she passed by she told them of her idea and their nods of approval strengthened her resolve and confidence in the validity of the idea.
Kagome, slowed down to a walk as she passed through the boundaries of Inuyasha's Forest. She stopped as she came to the cliff where she had said those horrible words so long ago. Her heart clenched in guilt and pain but she straightened her head and continued through the forest toward Inuyasha's usual hideout, the highest braches of the God-Tree.
The air was crisp and her breath formed clouds with every exhalation. Her steps caused a gentle crunching sound to invade the forest as the snow and ice gave way beneath her footfalls. She came to the base of the god tree and gazed up through its slender braches, now bare of their leaves. The weak winter sun sparkled on the ice coating the branches and illuminated the white hair of the hanyou that sat in them.
"Inuyasha!" Kagome called out, "Come down! I want to talk to you!"
Quietly as a cat, Inuyasha leapt from the tree and landed in a deep crouch at her feet. He graceful straightened to full height and towered above the girl. Stepping back, he folded his arms into the sleeves of his kimono and stepped back to stare at her.
"What?" he asked softly
"Well," Kagome answered "I have to go home for Christmas."
"Oh," Inuyasha said simply looking down at the ground "Go then."
"I want you to come with me."
That brought his head around. His eyes whipped up to meet hers in a intense questioning glare.
"You do?" He asked gruffly, "Why?"
"Yes, I do." She answered softly staring with compete earnesty into his golden eyes "I want you to come because I want to share the holidays with you. Will you come with me Inuyasha? Please?"
Her eyes pleaded with him to say yes and he couldn't refuse.
"Alright. I'll go." He said hesitantly and was completely shocked when she threw her arms around him in a wild embrace of excitement.
"Thank you Inuyasha!" She exclaimed as she grabbed him clawed hand, "Lets go!"
With that thought, she dashed off for the bone-eaters well dragging a very surprised and pleased hanyou behind her.
*************
Kagome and Inuyasha had arrived that afternoon, much to the surprise and delight of her family.
Sota was ecstatic to have his "dog brother" back, Grandfather was ecstatic about the thought of talking to Inuyasha about the past and Mrs. Higurashi was mearly pleased that the boy Kagome loves had come back with her to share this joyful season.
On Kagome's insistence, Inuyasha was given a cot to sleep on in Kagome's room. Her mother had resisted at first but with great determination, Kagome convinced her and the cot was set up. Once it was explained to him what it was, Inuyasha was happy to sleep on the soft bed.
Mrs. Higurashi was preparing dinner for Christmas Eve and called up to the children (Kagome, Sota and Inuyasha) to shower and get in their nice clothes. Grandfather had given his old tuxedo to Inuyasha so that he would be properly dressed for the occasion.
***********
"Alright," Kagome said to the two boys sitting in her room "Sota, go use Mom's shower. I'll take one in ours and then I'll explain to you, Inuyasha, about all the stuff to wash yourself with and how to work the tub."
"Okay" the boys replied together and set off to do as she said. Inuyasha sat around Kagome's room and inspected its contents while she showered. He was pleased to find a picture of himself on he nightstand.
**********
"Alright Inuyasha," Kagome said as they stood in the middle of the bathroom, "You turn this knob for hot water and this one for cold"
Kagome pointed at the different knobs on the wall of the shower.
"You use the stuff in the red bottle on your hair and wash your body with this bar of soap."
She indicated each thing in turn and then faced Inuyasha. "You get all that?"
His face showed utter bewilderment "Uh..yeah."
She hid a smile at his confusion and started out the door.
"Call if you need anything!" She said as she closed the bathroom door.
"Oh! Grandpa will come to help you dress!" She called back from the hallway.
Inuyasha stood in the bathroom and stared at the contents of the shower.
'What have I gotten myself into?' he thought as he began to remove his kimono.
**********
Inuyasha had eventually figured out the shower (flooding the bathroom in the process) when a tapping at the door made him start.
"Inuyasha! I've come to help you get ready!" Grandpa's voice filtered through the door and Inuyasha wrapped a towel around his waist and quickly opened the door to let the old man in.
Grandpa placed the shiny black tuxedo down on the counter and eyed the hanyou standing in the flooded room.
"Ah. You figured it out did you?"
At Inuyasha's sheepish grin, he quashed a smile and continued on.
"Well now! I must make you handsome for Kagome!" With that he clapped his hands at tossed a pair of underwear at Inuyasha.
"Put those on."
Inuyasha obeyed the mans orders and put on the strange garmet.
Grandpa then began handing him the parts of the tuxedo and helped him fasten the buttons. Inuyasha nearly lost his temper at the difficult cuff- links but the thought of Kagome's wrath stopped him from destroying the tuxedo.
When he was fully clothed, Grandpa called up Mrs. Higurashi to help him with the rest. Grandpa left the room to allow Mrs. Higurashi room to work with the hanyou.
"My, my!" She said as she entered "Don't you look handsome!"
Inuyasha blushed and hid a smile at her praise.
"Do you.?" he started hesistantly.
"Do I what, dear?" Mrs. Higurashi prompted gently. She proceeded cautiously for Kagome had warned her of his vulnerability and that she was to make sure he felt confident.
"Do you think Kagome will like it?" He finished and then looked at the floor in embaressment.
"She will love it Inuyasha." Mrs. Higurashi assured gently. "Now, We must fix up your hair!"
She grabbed a hair dryer, plugged it in and set to work drying with long and tangled silver hair.
She finally got it dry and was setting about combing it.
"You have such beautiful hair!" She commented "It's so soft and fine!"
"Uh.thanks." Inuyasha was hesitant on how to address this lady.
"Alright dear." She said "You're finished. Lets go downstairs to wait for Kagome."
"Alright." Inuyasha agreed and followed her out the door.
***********
Meanwhile, Kagome had dryed her hair, dressed and was ready to go to dinner. She was dressed in a shimmering blue gown that flowed past her knees and brushed her ankles as she walked. The top was blue silk and tied in a halter style around her neck. A pattern of rhinestone swirls covered the top from her stomach to her collarbone. The back of the dress dipped down to her lower back, revealing pale, flawless skin. The bottom was made of blue chiffon and fell in smooth waves down her legs. It was made of many layers and flowed out as she twirled and moved.
On her feet were blue satin heels. They raised her about two inches and were pointed at the end. Straps criss-crossed her feet and wound up her ankle ending just as it flowed into her calf.
She wore small diamond studs in her ears and a droplet shaped diamond around her neck. A simple silver bracelet was on her upper arm on both sides.
Kagome looked out the window into the night. The full moon cast it's milky white light over the Sunset Shrine and Kagome admired the changeless beauty of the milky orb as she became lost in her thoughts.
'So much has changed since I was last here. My careless words nearly destroyed Inuyasha and now we're all involved in the long process of trying to heal his heart and mind. I want so much to undo the damage I've done. Although I can never erase the past, I hope I can move beyond it. I want to spend my life with you Inuyasha. I will heal your heart. That's a promise.'
With that thought, Kagome walked out and down the stairs to her waiting hanyou.
********
As Inuyasha saw Kagome walk into the dining room, he felt his jaw drop in amazement. He stood to greet her.
"Kagome." He stammered "You..uh...um..you look beautiful."
He ended in a near whisper but Kagome caught it a gentle smile came to her face.
"Thank you Inuyasha."
The Higurashi's and Inuyasha enjoyed a wonderful Christmas dinner. There was much laughter and the family and guest retired to bed happy. Although, sometimes Inuyasha's expression would close and he would appear to lose focus on the conversation, Kagome was quick to bring him back. Reminded of her love, he was happy to return to the warm family and leave his thoughts of pain and anguish behind.
**********
As they settled down to sleep that night, Kagome watched her Inuyasha settle in to his bed. She feingned sleep so that she could watch him without his being uncomfortable under her gaze.
At last her patience was rewarded and Inuyasha dropped off to sleep. As he slept, his face relaxed and calmed. He looked so peaceful and almost angelic as he lay in the cot. Kagome smiled at his innocent face "I will forever love you Inuyasha" she whispered to the night as she fell into dreams.
***********
"IT'S CHRITMAS!!!!!!!!!!"
"YARG!!" Inuyasha leapt up out of the cot from the surprise of Kagome's unexpected yell. He landed in the center of her room in a deep crouch, claws poised for any attacks. He blinked rapidly willing his sleep hazed eyes to open and allow him to see clearly.
Kagome was at his side in an instant, apologizing profusely for terrifying him.
He shrugged off her apology and declared it to be nothing as he tried to calm his terrorized nerves and rapid heart rate.
"Just don't EVER do that again!" He panted.
"I promise." Kagome had to sharply surpress a giggle at his appearance. His long silver hair fell over him face in long tresses and hung off his white dog-ears.
The undershirt and boxers Grandpa had lent him (from when he was younger) were twisted and the undershirt was pulled up to midchest.
Kagome walked over and pulled down his shirt. "Come on, Inuyasha! We have to go get presents!" She once more grabbed his clawed hand a dragged him along behind her as she had the day before.
Though still clad in her blue flannel pajamas with her hair unbrushed and unruly, Inuyasha couldn't help but feel Kagome was beautiful.
'Beautiful with words that can kill.' He thought and was suddenly seeing Kagome as she had looked on that day two months ago when he thought his life would end. Hateful, angry, malicious. She strove to hurt him.
He suddenly stopped and slumped down against the wall. He closed his eyes and flattened his ears against the onslaught of her hateful words.
Kagome stopped when he felt him recoil and spun around. Quickly becoming alarmed she raced to his side and put her arms around the shaking hanyou.
"It's alright, Inuyasha. I'm with you now. I'll be by your side forever and never again stray, my love. Calm down now." She soothed the hanyou "It's over. It's all over."
Slowly, Inuyasha's trembling ceased and he opened his eyes to gaze into her brown ones, so full of love and warmth that they drove away the images that haunted him.
"Thank you Kagome." He whispered, relaxing into her arms "For loving me again."
She smiled down at his upturned face and tightened her arms around him. "I will always love you Inuyasha."
Mrs. Higurashi spied the lovebirds as she stepped out of her bedroom, she gazed happily on the lovely scene of her daughter cradling the hanyou in her arms. They looked so happy that Mrs. Higurashi was moved to nears tears by her joy. He daughter had found the one she would spend her life with.
Softly clearing her throats her smiled at the blush on both their faces.
"Come now my dears, presents are waiting."
They all ran down the stairs to the living room. They stopped and gazed in awe at the lovely Christmas tree. It was 10 feet tall and brushed the roof of the Higurashi home. Ornaments sparkled as they caught the light and candles cast a firely glow in the room. The angel topping the tree captured the innocence of the season.
Beneath the tree were piles of presents separated by person.
Inuyasha looked at the names of the piles: Grandpa, Sota, Mama, Kagome and, Inuyasha's eyes widened and shock stole across his features, one pile was for him.
His amazement must have shown on his face, for Kagome commented , "You didn't think you wouldn't have presents did you?"
"Yeah, Inu-no-nii-chan (dog brother) you didn't think we'd forget you!" Sota exclaimed
"We've been searching for good things for you for quite some time now, dear." Mama interjected softly.
Grandpa simply nodded sagely.
As if signaled, the group dove onto their presents. Wrapping paper flew everywhere as gifts were unwrapped and admired.
"Wow, mom! Thanks!" Kagome exclaimed holding up a new blue skirt "I love it!"
Sota gushed over his new action figures and cried out indignantly: "Mom!" when socks were found to be in a very large box.
Grandpa was ecstatic over the ancient Japanese style music CD's he receives as well as a new broom.
Mama blushed in happiness at the pearl necklace they gave her as well as a cookbook of American foods to try.
Inuyasha was thrilled that he was included in the gift giving. He received ramen, must to his pleasure, a tool to sharpen Tetsusaiga, a hair brush (courtesy of Kagome) and a pair of red swim trunks which Kagome had given to him saying: "Now you can swim with me!"
Finally as the rapid unwrapping ended, Inuyasha shyly handed a small wooden box to Kagome. With a curious look at Inuyasha, Kagome opened the box to reveal a beautiful necklace. It was made of silver and turquoise and the chain flowed down into a large teardrop shaped moonstone set in silver. As Kagome lifted out the beautiful necklace and attached it around her neck, Inuyasha softly whispered, "It was my mother's"
"Thank-you Inuyasha." Kagome exclaimed happily "This has been the best Christmas ever!"
As Inuyasha watched Kagome show off her necklace to her family, a smile traced it's way across his features.
'Perhaps I can overcome this. I will be able to let her into my heart. I know now that she truly loves me and she said such things out of anger, not hatred. I will stay with her forever.'
With that thought Inuyasha looked at his love in complete happiness. The shadow lifted from his eyes and they sparkled with renewed light.
*********
"Soon..soon" A dark voice whispered "Soon I will have my revenge on that hanyou and his cursed girl!"
The shadowed figure cackled evily into the night as thoughts of revenge raced through her head..
************
To Be Continued..
Next chappie will be up soon! This is just the beginning! You wishes for more will be answered!
REVIEWS REQUIRED FOR SPEEDY UPDATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Warrior of Forest
Now the LONG AWAITED 9 PAGE:
Chapter 12: Healing of the Heart
Many weeks had passed since the return of Inuyasha to the village. His wounds had long since healed and not even a scar remained on his physical body. However, he still remained skittish and guarded around people, even Kagome, for his heart was unwilling to risk furthur hurt.
Kagome, Miroku, Sango and Shippo devoted all their time and effort to healing the hanyou's heart and mind. They would engage in play fights that terrorized the villagers and often led them to be forced into repairing the houses and fields they damaged.
On a chance, one day the group had discovered Inuyasha's love for swimming. They had decided to take advantage of the warm autumn day and went down to the river for a picnic. While there, the girls had decided to go swimming and had coaxed the boys into joining them. Kagome had even provided swim suits for the boys so they had no reason to back out. They discovered the intense playfulness of Inuyasha while he swam and were constantly at risk of being dunked by the determined hanyou. On that day, the shadow of sorrow had lifted from his gaze and he became more open and relaxed. However, the apprehention was still there, though greatly diminished.
As fall passed into winter and snow covered the lanscape, Kagome felt the familiar tug of indecision. She had not been home in two months since the fateful incident with Inuyasha, and now Christmas and New Year was coming up. She wanted to celebrate the holidays with her family and assure them that all was well, however, she didn't want to leave Inuyasha while he was still so sensitive. She could never forgive herself if her absence caused him to relapse. Suddenly, an idea came unbidden to her head. It was a risk, but it would solve her problems. With that in mind, Kagome raced out the door of Kaede's hut in search of the hanyou.
***********
As Kagome raced through town, she encountered Miroku and Sango. As she passed by she told them of her idea and their nods of approval strengthened her resolve and confidence in the validity of the idea.
Kagome, slowed down to a walk as she passed through the boundaries of Inuyasha's Forest. She stopped as she came to the cliff where she had said those horrible words so long ago. Her heart clenched in guilt and pain but she straightened her head and continued through the forest toward Inuyasha's usual hideout, the highest braches of the God-Tree.
The air was crisp and her breath formed clouds with every exhalation. Her steps caused a gentle crunching sound to invade the forest as the snow and ice gave way beneath her footfalls. She came to the base of the god tree and gazed up through its slender braches, now bare of their leaves. The weak winter sun sparkled on the ice coating the branches and illuminated the white hair of the hanyou that sat in them.
"Inuyasha!" Kagome called out, "Come down! I want to talk to you!"
Quietly as a cat, Inuyasha leapt from the tree and landed in a deep crouch at her feet. He graceful straightened to full height and towered above the girl. Stepping back, he folded his arms into the sleeves of his kimono and stepped back to stare at her.
"What?" he asked softly
"Well," Kagome answered "I have to go home for Christmas."
"Oh," Inuyasha said simply looking down at the ground "Go then."
"I want you to come with me."
That brought his head around. His eyes whipped up to meet hers in a intense questioning glare.
"You do?" He asked gruffly, "Why?"
"Yes, I do." She answered softly staring with compete earnesty into his golden eyes "I want you to come because I want to share the holidays with you. Will you come with me Inuyasha? Please?"
Her eyes pleaded with him to say yes and he couldn't refuse.
"Alright. I'll go." He said hesitantly and was completely shocked when she threw her arms around him in a wild embrace of excitement.
"Thank you Inuyasha!" She exclaimed as she grabbed him clawed hand, "Lets go!"
With that thought, she dashed off for the bone-eaters well dragging a very surprised and pleased hanyou behind her.
*************
Kagome and Inuyasha had arrived that afternoon, much to the surprise and delight of her family.
Sota was ecstatic to have his "dog brother" back, Grandfather was ecstatic about the thought of talking to Inuyasha about the past and Mrs. Higurashi was mearly pleased that the boy Kagome loves had come back with her to share this joyful season.
On Kagome's insistence, Inuyasha was given a cot to sleep on in Kagome's room. Her mother had resisted at first but with great determination, Kagome convinced her and the cot was set up. Once it was explained to him what it was, Inuyasha was happy to sleep on the soft bed.
Mrs. Higurashi was preparing dinner for Christmas Eve and called up to the children (Kagome, Sota and Inuyasha) to shower and get in their nice clothes. Grandfather had given his old tuxedo to Inuyasha so that he would be properly dressed for the occasion.
***********
"Alright," Kagome said to the two boys sitting in her room "Sota, go use Mom's shower. I'll take one in ours and then I'll explain to you, Inuyasha, about all the stuff to wash yourself with and how to work the tub."
"Okay" the boys replied together and set off to do as she said. Inuyasha sat around Kagome's room and inspected its contents while she showered. He was pleased to find a picture of himself on he nightstand.
**********
"Alright Inuyasha," Kagome said as they stood in the middle of the bathroom, "You turn this knob for hot water and this one for cold"
Kagome pointed at the different knobs on the wall of the shower.
"You use the stuff in the red bottle on your hair and wash your body with this bar of soap."
She indicated each thing in turn and then faced Inuyasha. "You get all that?"
His face showed utter bewilderment "Uh..yeah."
She hid a smile at his confusion and started out the door.
"Call if you need anything!" She said as she closed the bathroom door.
"Oh! Grandpa will come to help you dress!" She called back from the hallway.
Inuyasha stood in the bathroom and stared at the contents of the shower.
'What have I gotten myself into?' he thought as he began to remove his kimono.
**********
Inuyasha had eventually figured out the shower (flooding the bathroom in the process) when a tapping at the door made him start.
"Inuyasha! I've come to help you get ready!" Grandpa's voice filtered through the door and Inuyasha wrapped a towel around his waist and quickly opened the door to let the old man in.
Grandpa placed the shiny black tuxedo down on the counter and eyed the hanyou standing in the flooded room.
"Ah. You figured it out did you?"
At Inuyasha's sheepish grin, he quashed a smile and continued on.
"Well now! I must make you handsome for Kagome!" With that he clapped his hands at tossed a pair of underwear at Inuyasha.
"Put those on."
Inuyasha obeyed the mans orders and put on the strange garmet.
Grandpa then began handing him the parts of the tuxedo and helped him fasten the buttons. Inuyasha nearly lost his temper at the difficult cuff- links but the thought of Kagome's wrath stopped him from destroying the tuxedo.
When he was fully clothed, Grandpa called up Mrs. Higurashi to help him with the rest. Grandpa left the room to allow Mrs. Higurashi room to work with the hanyou.
"My, my!" She said as she entered "Don't you look handsome!"
Inuyasha blushed and hid a smile at her praise.
"Do you.?" he started hesistantly.
"Do I what, dear?" Mrs. Higurashi prompted gently. She proceeded cautiously for Kagome had warned her of his vulnerability and that she was to make sure he felt confident.
"Do you think Kagome will like it?" He finished and then looked at the floor in embaressment.
"She will love it Inuyasha." Mrs. Higurashi assured gently. "Now, We must fix up your hair!"
She grabbed a hair dryer, plugged it in and set to work drying with long and tangled silver hair.
She finally got it dry and was setting about combing it.
"You have such beautiful hair!" She commented "It's so soft and fine!"
"Uh.thanks." Inuyasha was hesitant on how to address this lady.
"Alright dear." She said "You're finished. Lets go downstairs to wait for Kagome."
"Alright." Inuyasha agreed and followed her out the door.
***********
Meanwhile, Kagome had dryed her hair, dressed and was ready to go to dinner. She was dressed in a shimmering blue gown that flowed past her knees and brushed her ankles as she walked. The top was blue silk and tied in a halter style around her neck. A pattern of rhinestone swirls covered the top from her stomach to her collarbone. The back of the dress dipped down to her lower back, revealing pale, flawless skin. The bottom was made of blue chiffon and fell in smooth waves down her legs. It was made of many layers and flowed out as she twirled and moved.
On her feet were blue satin heels. They raised her about two inches and were pointed at the end. Straps criss-crossed her feet and wound up her ankle ending just as it flowed into her calf.
She wore small diamond studs in her ears and a droplet shaped diamond around her neck. A simple silver bracelet was on her upper arm on both sides.
Kagome looked out the window into the night. The full moon cast it's milky white light over the Sunset Shrine and Kagome admired the changeless beauty of the milky orb as she became lost in her thoughts.
'So much has changed since I was last here. My careless words nearly destroyed Inuyasha and now we're all involved in the long process of trying to heal his heart and mind. I want so much to undo the damage I've done. Although I can never erase the past, I hope I can move beyond it. I want to spend my life with you Inuyasha. I will heal your heart. That's a promise.'
With that thought, Kagome walked out and down the stairs to her waiting hanyou.
********
As Inuyasha saw Kagome walk into the dining room, he felt his jaw drop in amazement. He stood to greet her.
"Kagome." He stammered "You..uh...um..you look beautiful."
He ended in a near whisper but Kagome caught it a gentle smile came to her face.
"Thank you Inuyasha."
The Higurashi's and Inuyasha enjoyed a wonderful Christmas dinner. There was much laughter and the family and guest retired to bed happy. Although, sometimes Inuyasha's expression would close and he would appear to lose focus on the conversation, Kagome was quick to bring him back. Reminded of her love, he was happy to return to the warm family and leave his thoughts of pain and anguish behind.
**********
As they settled down to sleep that night, Kagome watched her Inuyasha settle in to his bed. She feingned sleep so that she could watch him without his being uncomfortable under her gaze.
At last her patience was rewarded and Inuyasha dropped off to sleep. As he slept, his face relaxed and calmed. He looked so peaceful and almost angelic as he lay in the cot. Kagome smiled at his innocent face "I will forever love you Inuyasha" she whispered to the night as she fell into dreams.
***********
"IT'S CHRITMAS!!!!!!!!!!"
"YARG!!" Inuyasha leapt up out of the cot from the surprise of Kagome's unexpected yell. He landed in the center of her room in a deep crouch, claws poised for any attacks. He blinked rapidly willing his sleep hazed eyes to open and allow him to see clearly.
Kagome was at his side in an instant, apologizing profusely for terrifying him.
He shrugged off her apology and declared it to be nothing as he tried to calm his terrorized nerves and rapid heart rate.
"Just don't EVER do that again!" He panted.
"I promise." Kagome had to sharply surpress a giggle at his appearance. His long silver hair fell over him face in long tresses and hung off his white dog-ears.
The undershirt and boxers Grandpa had lent him (from when he was younger) were twisted and the undershirt was pulled up to midchest.
Kagome walked over and pulled down his shirt. "Come on, Inuyasha! We have to go get presents!" She once more grabbed his clawed hand a dragged him along behind her as she had the day before.
Though still clad in her blue flannel pajamas with her hair unbrushed and unruly, Inuyasha couldn't help but feel Kagome was beautiful.
'Beautiful with words that can kill.' He thought and was suddenly seeing Kagome as she had looked on that day two months ago when he thought his life would end. Hateful, angry, malicious. She strove to hurt him.
He suddenly stopped and slumped down against the wall. He closed his eyes and flattened his ears against the onslaught of her hateful words.
Kagome stopped when he felt him recoil and spun around. Quickly becoming alarmed she raced to his side and put her arms around the shaking hanyou.
"It's alright, Inuyasha. I'm with you now. I'll be by your side forever and never again stray, my love. Calm down now." She soothed the hanyou "It's over. It's all over."
Slowly, Inuyasha's trembling ceased and he opened his eyes to gaze into her brown ones, so full of love and warmth that they drove away the images that haunted him.
"Thank you Kagome." He whispered, relaxing into her arms "For loving me again."
She smiled down at his upturned face and tightened her arms around him. "I will always love you Inuyasha."
Mrs. Higurashi spied the lovebirds as she stepped out of her bedroom, she gazed happily on the lovely scene of her daughter cradling the hanyou in her arms. They looked so happy that Mrs. Higurashi was moved to nears tears by her joy. He daughter had found the one she would spend her life with.
Softly clearing her throats her smiled at the blush on both their faces.
"Come now my dears, presents are waiting."
They all ran down the stairs to the living room. They stopped and gazed in awe at the lovely Christmas tree. It was 10 feet tall and brushed the roof of the Higurashi home. Ornaments sparkled as they caught the light and candles cast a firely glow in the room. The angel topping the tree captured the innocence of the season.
Beneath the tree were piles of presents separated by person.
Inuyasha looked at the names of the piles: Grandpa, Sota, Mama, Kagome and, Inuyasha's eyes widened and shock stole across his features, one pile was for him.
His amazement must have shown on his face, for Kagome commented , "You didn't think you wouldn't have presents did you?"
"Yeah, Inu-no-nii-chan (dog brother) you didn't think we'd forget you!" Sota exclaimed
"We've been searching for good things for you for quite some time now, dear." Mama interjected softly.
Grandpa simply nodded sagely.
As if signaled, the group dove onto their presents. Wrapping paper flew everywhere as gifts were unwrapped and admired.
"Wow, mom! Thanks!" Kagome exclaimed holding up a new blue skirt "I love it!"
Sota gushed over his new action figures and cried out indignantly: "Mom!" when socks were found to be in a very large box.
Grandpa was ecstatic over the ancient Japanese style music CD's he receives as well as a new broom.
Mama blushed in happiness at the pearl necklace they gave her as well as a cookbook of American foods to try.
Inuyasha was thrilled that he was included in the gift giving. He received ramen, must to his pleasure, a tool to sharpen Tetsusaiga, a hair brush (courtesy of Kagome) and a pair of red swim trunks which Kagome had given to him saying: "Now you can swim with me!"
Finally as the rapid unwrapping ended, Inuyasha shyly handed a small wooden box to Kagome. With a curious look at Inuyasha, Kagome opened the box to reveal a beautiful necklace. It was made of silver and turquoise and the chain flowed down into a large teardrop shaped moonstone set in silver. As Kagome lifted out the beautiful necklace and attached it around her neck, Inuyasha softly whispered, "It was my mother's"
"Thank-you Inuyasha." Kagome exclaimed happily "This has been the best Christmas ever!"
As Inuyasha watched Kagome show off her necklace to her family, a smile traced it's way across his features.
'Perhaps I can overcome this. I will be able to let her into my heart. I know now that she truly loves me and she said such things out of anger, not hatred. I will stay with her forever.'
With that thought Inuyasha looked at his love in complete happiness. The shadow lifted from his eyes and they sparkled with renewed light.
*********
"Soon..soon" A dark voice whispered "Soon I will have my revenge on that hanyou and his cursed girl!"
The shadowed figure cackled evily into the night as thoughts of revenge raced through her head..
************
To Be Continued..
Next chappie will be up soon! This is just the beginning! You wishes for more will be answered!
REVIEWS REQUIRED FOR SPEEDY UPDATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Warrior of Forest