Disclaimer: I own nothing, just like I haven't owned anything in the other
4 chapters
Title: Underneath Her Mask
A/N: Hello Everybody! I hope you like this chapter more so than the last. I am fully aware that to some the last chapter was somewhat. blah. Lol! Sorry about that! And how late this chapter is!
~
Chapter 5: The Truth
~
Kagome walked down the hallway, her heels clicking on the marble floor with each step she took. Her insides twisted and turned. Nervousness nipped away at any true confidence that she felt, though her mask hid all. Finally she made it to her office. *Her office*. She liked the sound of that.
Kagome's office was simple. There wasn't much more than a computer and desk and a few chairs scattered here and there. A headset was placed neatly at her desk, right beside a wheel of phone numbers. A single file cabinet was located not far from her desk, and a very fake, plastic plant was the only sorry attempt at making the room 'comfortable'. 'Well I'll just have to fix that, won't I,' Kagome told herself. But before she could plan on redecorating, she would first need to go greet her new 'boss'. There was a door on the east side of her office leading to Sesshoumaru's office. After placing her purse underneath her desk, she headed over to the door that separated their offices. With a soft knock, she waited for Sesshoumaru to bid her in.
"Come in," Sesshoumaru stated in his naturally cold voice. Kagome took a deep breath, mustering up as much courage as she could, before opening the door, not failing to notice the feeling of impending doom upon her soul.
Kagome said nothing, as she gazed upon Sesshoumaru Takamada for the second time. He looked just as distant and frigid as before, and to her displeasure, just as stunningly handsome. But rather than donning a tux, this time he wore an Armoni suit, as he sat reading a report of some kind, not even bothering to spare her a glance.
"Well what is it?" he asked harshly.
"Hello Mr. Takamada. I don't know if you remember me, but I am Ms. Kagome Higurashi, your new secretary." His eyes locked upon hers.
~*~
Sesshoumaru almost growled when a timid knock reached his ears.
"Come in," he stated, still reading the report on the technical engineering branch. When he heard the opening of the door, he waited for whomever it was taking up his precious time, to state their purpose for interrupting him, and then leave. The only answer he received was a deafening silence.
"Well what is it?" He bit out. He had far too much work to do, and the massive stack of paper in front of him was evidence or it. He had no time to waste while some dolt fumbled with words. But when she opened her mouth and the words poured out, all he could hear was the sound of her voice. Its sweet melody was regrettably familiar. 'Please don't let it be who I think it is.' His eyes snapped up, only to set his gaze upon the face, he wished so heartedly that he wouldn't have to see. 'Damn'
His report was forgotten as he got up and out of his chair, stalking to where she stood. Taking in her attire, he was mildly surprised, though it didn't show. She wore a pair of black dress pants, along with a white sleeved shirt. Her hair was being held in a bun by a pair of chopsticks. Again she wore no makeup or jewelry, just as he had seen her before. She looked ready, and willing to *work*. His eyes dropped for only a second to her cast. He quickly noted that the name 'Shippo' was scribbled upon its surface, and briefly wondered whom he was, before deciding not to comment and continued his once-over.
She radiated confidence, but upon further inspection Sesshoumaru could swear that she was tinged with nervousness, for every now and then, her clear blue eyes would give a tiniest flicker. Sesshoumaru stopped directly in front of where she stood and grabbed her chin, while scrutinizing every feature of her face before letting go.
Kagome's jaw clenched, in an effort to keep the biting remarks at bay. 'How dare he?!' Sesshoumaru began to circle her, like a hunter would its prey. As the *hunter* revolved around, her eyes followed each step he took.
"What the hell are you, a hawk?!' Her irritation had gotten the better of her, and she lashed out with vengeance. Sesshoumaru was torn between the urge to smile at her easily upset state, or wreak havoc, for she had done the unimaginable and raised her voice to him. Only his father had been able to do that without receiving an invective lashing.
"Do not question me, wench," Sesshoumaru growled. It was apparent that he had opted for the latter. To most, he would appear intimidating, a force not to be tampered with, but Kagome knew he was *nothing* in comparison to her father.
"My name is *Kagome*." If looks could kill, he would die a thousand deaths.
"Do I look like I care?" She growled warningly at his impertinent inquiry. Her animalistic snarl startled Sesshoumaru, and only increased his frustration. "You have *no* idea about what your getting into *little girl*," he warned.
He was challenging her. They both knew it. The question was, would Kagome submit, and accept defeat? Living the next four years catering to his every whim, and acknowledging him as her better? Or would she rise to the challenge bestowed upon her? And in the end, either come out the victor, or ashamed of her very being.
"I can handle anything you can throw at me." She had accepted, now she must face the consequences. He raised one delicate eyebrow, before grabbing the enormous stack of papers and walking right past her, only to enter Kagome's office. Confused she followed only to see Sesshoumaru drop them upon her desk.
"File them into each branch of electronics." He stated gesturing absently to the file cabinet before heading back into his office. 'I suppose I don't have as much work anymore,' Sesshoumaru thought amused. 'That will take *forever*' Kagome's mind screamed, before she knew what was happening, Sesshoumaru had appeared once more in her office, placing another, equally large, pile by the first.'
"Also, make sure to arrange a meeting with the Sony corporation, for next Saturday at 2." He said not even glancing at her. "Oh and bye the way," Sesshoumaru stopped right before crossing the threshold to his own office, "I'd like a cup of green tea." And with the barest of smiles, he was gone. 'Maybe this wasn't such a good idea.' Kagome thought after hearing the click of the door. 'No. I'll show him. I will be the *best* damn secretary there ever was to Sesshoumaru Takamada, even if it kills me.'
~*~
It had taken Kagome a little more than a half an hour to get him a cup of green tea, for she had lost count of how many times she had gotten lost. He hadn't even taken a sip from it before she had been out the door and searching through the wheel of phone numbers to find 'Sony's'.
"Hello, I'd like to speak with the owner of the Sony Corporation." She spoke clearly into the headset, while already paging through the documents on her desk. So caught up in her work, she didn't notice someone entering her office. "This is Sesshoumaru Takamada's secretary, from Shikon corp. Yes. Thank you! He would like a meeting to be arranged for next Saturday at 2 pm," she said pleasantly. "Alright, Thank you again!" She took off the headset and started to arrange the mounds of paper into their proper categories when her concentration was interrupted by an awkward 'ahem'.
Kagome's smile turned to a frown as she was greeted by the sight of Sesshoumaru's younger brother, Inuyasha. The feeling of dread prospered, when Kagome recalled their last encounter, but she was still quick to replace her frown with a forced smile. Unlike his brother, he wore his suit, minus the confining blazer, yet he still managed to look incredibly uncomfortable.
"What can I do for you?" she asked in false cheer, momentarily putting her massive task on hold. He appeared awkward as he shifted his weight from one foot to the other, and began to look at anything besides the girl sitting in front of him.
"Uh... I um. wanted to say sorry about.," he trialed off for a second, trying to find the right words, ". about pissing you off at the party," 'excellently put Inuyasha,' he berated himself silently.
Kagome's smile became softer, and more genuine, after his coarse apology. "It's alright. I overreacted. Her voice became less strained, and more comfortable as she spoke. "I apologize for having screamed at you," Inuyasha sighed, relieved that his request for forgiveness was over. It wasn't exactly his forte.
"You think that we could start over?" he asked, hope easily being heard in his voice. There was a certain *something* about this girl that reminded him of the phrase, 'one in a million'. And he would be a fool not to get to know her.
"I'd like that." Kagome gave Inuyasha one of her heart stopping smiles. 'Maybe he isn't as bad as I thought.'
"Well, I'd like to introduce myself," Inuyasha stated lightheartedly, "My name is Inuyasha Takamada," he reached over to shake her hand, "and I have been told that I can be kind of a jerk," Kagome giggled as she started to introduce her self.
"Nice to meet you Inuyasha! My name is Kagome Lee Higurashi, and for future reference. I *never* cry."
"Never?" He asked, a little surprised. She shook her head.
"Never."
He nodded, acceptingly, before he turned his attention to her cast. "You broke your arm," he stated.
"Observant, aren't you?' she teased. If it had not been for the twinkle in those big beautiful eyes of hers, he would have taken offense. Instead he flashed her a charming smirk.
"Yeah, I know." Kagome rolled her eyes. "So how did you do it?" he asked more seriously.
"*Long* story," Kagome answered, 'one which I never plan to tell' He shrugged.
"I've got time."
"Yeah, well I don't," she said gesturing to her desk, with a slight grimace on her face.
"Ah." he stated knowingly. "Sesshoumaru is quite slave driver, ain't he?"
"That's putting it mildly," Kagome said, sounding little more than dejected. She even began to pout and Inuyasha chuckled at the picture she made.
"Seriously, don't let Sesshoumaru get to you. Just hang in there, and he'll eventually lighten up." Kagome didn't answer, but she highly doubted that after this morning that he would 'lighten up' as Inuyasha called it. He probably would end up pushing her harder. "Well, that is, unless you did something stupid and now he holds a grudge against you," 'whoops?' "See ya later!" Inuyasha called, already making his way out the door.
"Bye," Kagome said, feeling the all too familiar sense of foreboding, as she wondered exactly what Sesshoumaru was capable of.
~*~
~2:45~
It was over four hours later before she had seen another human being. Not even Sesshoumaru had come to check upon her during that time.
Kaede's old face contorted into a frown when she walked through the door, only to find Kagome sitting in front of the grey filing cabinet, delicately placing in sheets of paper, one by one, as fast as she could.
"Kagome?" Kaede spoke. Kagome swiftly looked up and gave her a quick smile before turning her attention back to work.
"Yes Kaede?"
"How long have you been doing that, dear?" Kaede asked worriedly.
"Oh," Kagome rapidly glanced at her watch before getting back to work. "About 4 hours or so," she stated nonchalantly. Kaede made her way to where she sat, and placed her hands over Kagome's, sufficiently gaining her full attention.
"Have you even had *lunch* yet?" Kaede's concern was evident.
Kagome looked surprised as she answered the inquiry of the old woman. "I guess I haven't."
"Why on earth not?!" Kaede's worry now started combining with aggravation.
"I just forgot is all, Kaede," Kagome said, trying to calm the older woman down. She didn't think it was healthy for a woman her age to get so upset.
"And four hours!" Kaede began rambling. "My God! You have been working for *four* hours straight! Did Sesshoumaru make you do this?! Work so long without even eating?! I bet he did, that no good arrogant."
"Kaede!" Kagome all but shouted. "Mr. Takamada did *no* such thing. I just *completely* lost track of time. That's all it was." Kagome said, slightly panting from her outburst. Kaede scowled, but grudgingly accepted the answer.
"You still need to get something to eat Kagome," Kaede spoke sternly.
"Alright, fine." Kagome waved her hands in a surrender-like gesture. 'Even though I've certainly gone longer with out food before' "Let me just go tell Mr. Takamada I'm taking my lunch break, okay?" Kaede nodded, but kept a keen eye on Kagome as she grabbed her purse and entered Sesshoumaru's office.
~*~
Kagome knocked briefly on Sesshoumaru's office door, before entering. He looked up from his computer screen where he had been diligently typing away moments before.
"Don't you have some work to do, *Higurashi*?" The hint of amusement in his voice was unmistakable. Kagome's voice was strained as she tried to keep the conversation between Sesshoumaru boss and herself civilized.
"Yes *sir*, but Kaede-sama thought it was time for me to take my lunch break." 'She hasn't had lunch yet? It's almost three.' Sesshoumaru had just assumed that she had *already* eaten without even consulting to him. But here she was, informing him that she wouldn't be available for a while.
"So." Kagome was cut off by someone entering Sesshoumaru's office uninvited.
"Sesshoumaru, dad wants to..." He smiled brightly when he saw the other occupant in the room. "Oh, hey Kagome!" She readily returned the smile. "Like I was saying, dad wants to talk to ya," he said turning his attention back to Sesshoumaru. "You going somewhere?" he asked, eyeing Kagome's purse.
"I'm taking my lunch break," She turned back to Sesshoumaru only to be interrupted again. 'Man, that is getting annoying' Kagome thought.
"You haven't had *lunch* yet?"
"Yes, now if there isn't anything you need Mr. Takamada, I'll be back in a half an hour or so," Kagome said getting ready to leave.
"Hey Kag, you think you'd mind some company?" Inuyasha asked. Kagome stopped short to gaze intently at him.
"I'd love for you to come Inuyasha, but isn't there something you need to be doing?"
"Nah, I don't do much around here anyway," he said shrugging. Kagome's bright smile lit the room.
Sesshoumaru was forgotten as Inuyasha offered his arm, and it did not escape his perception that Kagome hadn't hesitated to take.
Jealousy coursed through his veins, spreading like wildfire throughout his body and before he knew it, he felt a strong desire to wipe that smug smile off his whelp of a brother's face. 'Since when are they so close? The last time I checked, Higurashi was ready to tear Inuyasha apart.' But the scene he just witnessed said nothing about repugnance or even dislike. His hands clenched, in an effort to regain control over his defiant emotions. 'She is nothing. I have no reason to feel this way.' And with that, he headed to his father.
~*~
"You called?" It was more of a statement than an actual question.
"Yes, take a seat son." Sesshoumaru remained standing. "Or stand if you prefer," Inu Tashio said, a bit irritated when his son didn't comply.
"Kaede tells me that Ms. Kagome is just *now* having lunch. Is this true?" Sesshoumaru nodded, confirming his father's information. "Did you not think to suggest earlier, that it would be in her best interest to eat?" Though he admired his old man, Sesshoumaru hated how his father had the ability to make him feel as though he had done something wrong, when he hadn't.
"I was unaware that the Higurashi girl hadn't eaten anything." His father seemed to understand this answer, somewhat begrudgingly though.
"Well other than that, how is she doing?" Inu Tashio asked, not showing how curious he truly was.
"She is doing fine I *suppose*,"
"You '*suppose*'? Don't you *know*?"
"I had work to do." That was his only answer, his only excuse, and it was poor one at that.
He couldn't deny the need to see how well she was doing on several occasions, but surprisingly, he managed to suppress it. That is, until her office was empty, and she could no longer be found roaming inside. He had peeked inside, hoping to find something wrong, or out of place, but no. She had made sure to put ever single document inside the file cabinet until her return, not failing to lock it before she left either. And if he hadn't been summoned to speak with his father, Sesshoumaru would have retrieved his *own* key, and surveyed her work.
But instead he had to listen to his father drone away, while he secretly wondered what was happening at Kagome's lunch.
~*~
It wasn't until late that evening that Sesshoumaru had a chance to talk to Inuyasha. Well, he would have talked to him, if Inuyasha hadn't raved about her company all throughout dinner.
"She really is awesome Dad, " Inuyasha told his father, since it looked as it his brother wasn't paying attention. Sesshoumaru could tell his father was struggling to keep from outright laughing at his youngest son's uncharacteristic behavior.
"After we ate lunch, we had a little time left before she needed to get back to the office, so we took a quick walk through the park nearby and we ended up running into this kid. I think his name was. Shippo or something. Anyways." At that point, Sesshoumaru began to drown out the bothersome sound of his brother's voice. 'He seems utterly infatuated with her' Sesshoumaru noted with disgust, as he glared at the animated face of Inuyasha, as he retold everything about what had transpired between Kagome and himself.
Jealousy had had managed to rear its ugly head once more, and Sesshoumaru couldn't help wishing that he had never wanted to know what had taken place between his brother and Kagome. *It wasn't like he cared anyway.* But the truth was, he knew nothing about her.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(Hint: The next chapter will tell if Kagome managed to get all the work Sesshoumaru gave her done. ()
A/N: So what did you all think? :: nervously pulls on hands:: (bad habit of mine) ::sheepish smile:: ( I think it was better than last chapter for sure, though the ending wasn't my favorite. What about *you* peoples? Oh , and I am really sorry for how late this was. I can't *believe* how busy I have been. And thank you, to everyone that reviewed. Okay. now in my *last* chapter I asked if you peeps thought I should do a highlighting type of thing, so here it goes. Tell me if you think I should keep doing it or not. (Request: Can anyone help me out with the summery?! I would really appreciate it!"
Highlights: (stuff to keep in mind)
Kagome couldn't lie to Shippo
Sesshoumaru can see small details about Kagome's actual feelings. (like her being nervous.
Kagome blames herself for her mother's death.
Kagome and Inuyasha are becoming friends.
Kagome's father would do almost *anything* to make sure she is miserable.
(I know this one was kind of unclear) Kagome plans to use the money that was found in her mother's box, for fun things for herself. To 'live life to its fullest'.
Notice how Sesshoumaru keeps trying to convince himself that Kagome 'is nothing'.
It was hinted in this chapter that Kagome's father would sometimes make her go without food for a while.
In Sesshoumaru's mind, Inuyasha likes Kagome, but that isn't reality.
Well that's all I can think of for now. What do you think?
Review Responses:
I: Awesome!
.:`~Crimson~`:. : I am glad you think so! Lol. ( You are so sweet! Ooooo I LOVE root beer! Mmmm. I think I want some *now*. Anyways, I hope this chapter lived up to your expectations!
myinuyasha04: Lol. Good! I hope this satisfied your need for a Sess/Kag meeting!
nuria: Hey, in the first chapter (though if you don't remember I don't blame you () it like says that he convinced her it was her fault that her mom died.
InvisibleRain: Well, I glad I gave you your first! LOL! Her mother died giving birth to Kagome. (very important) And Shippo is just helping out at the restaurant. That's how he gets his allowance. And no he doesn't have a horrible life at home, he just is a normal little boy. Kagome didn't walk in because she didn't have to work that day. It was basically a way for Sesshoumaru to see that Kagome kept her mask on even when she was by herself. She hides her true feelings and emotions. I hope this covers your need for interaction! ( Thanks! (wow that was long)
Soudesuka-Shurikens: Engaging. good word. I do that sometimes, compliment words that I don't hear very often. ::sheepish smile:: bad habit. (
Shanaka: Thank you!
Dragon Rae: I think I did. I can't remember. oh well. (
hyper person: Thanks!
Glass Thorn: So how did the highlights work out?
ellie: Of course it is! Here is the beloved interaction! Ah hah!
Stardreamer090: Oooo, it does that for me too! Yes, Sessie is a hottie. mmmm. ( I know! Ramen is sooo good, but soooooo unhealthy. I haven't had it in forever. mmmm, I want some now. Yeah you were right. It was more of a necessity, than enjoyable. What about this chapter though? I like it much better. Who couldn't love you reviews!!! Don't change! Your rambunctiousness (is that a word? I don't think so) is endearing. This may sound stupid but. what is a xanga? Oooo I can't wait for your stories to come out! What are they about? Can't wait to talk to ya again! Bye!
Thundergirl: Wow! Chocolate! Awesome compliment! Not really, thanks for the review!
ilovesashimi: Is this chapter good?
chocolategumybearofdoom: Thanks for the review!
Flame99: Thanks for the review!
Title: Underneath Her Mask
A/N: Hello Everybody! I hope you like this chapter more so than the last. I am fully aware that to some the last chapter was somewhat. blah. Lol! Sorry about that! And how late this chapter is!
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Chapter 5: The Truth
~
Kagome walked down the hallway, her heels clicking on the marble floor with each step she took. Her insides twisted and turned. Nervousness nipped away at any true confidence that she felt, though her mask hid all. Finally she made it to her office. *Her office*. She liked the sound of that.
Kagome's office was simple. There wasn't much more than a computer and desk and a few chairs scattered here and there. A headset was placed neatly at her desk, right beside a wheel of phone numbers. A single file cabinet was located not far from her desk, and a very fake, plastic plant was the only sorry attempt at making the room 'comfortable'. 'Well I'll just have to fix that, won't I,' Kagome told herself. But before she could plan on redecorating, she would first need to go greet her new 'boss'. There was a door on the east side of her office leading to Sesshoumaru's office. After placing her purse underneath her desk, she headed over to the door that separated their offices. With a soft knock, she waited for Sesshoumaru to bid her in.
"Come in," Sesshoumaru stated in his naturally cold voice. Kagome took a deep breath, mustering up as much courage as she could, before opening the door, not failing to notice the feeling of impending doom upon her soul.
Kagome said nothing, as she gazed upon Sesshoumaru Takamada for the second time. He looked just as distant and frigid as before, and to her displeasure, just as stunningly handsome. But rather than donning a tux, this time he wore an Armoni suit, as he sat reading a report of some kind, not even bothering to spare her a glance.
"Well what is it?" he asked harshly.
"Hello Mr. Takamada. I don't know if you remember me, but I am Ms. Kagome Higurashi, your new secretary." His eyes locked upon hers.
~*~
Sesshoumaru almost growled when a timid knock reached his ears.
"Come in," he stated, still reading the report on the technical engineering branch. When he heard the opening of the door, he waited for whomever it was taking up his precious time, to state their purpose for interrupting him, and then leave. The only answer he received was a deafening silence.
"Well what is it?" He bit out. He had far too much work to do, and the massive stack of paper in front of him was evidence or it. He had no time to waste while some dolt fumbled with words. But when she opened her mouth and the words poured out, all he could hear was the sound of her voice. Its sweet melody was regrettably familiar. 'Please don't let it be who I think it is.' His eyes snapped up, only to set his gaze upon the face, he wished so heartedly that he wouldn't have to see. 'Damn'
His report was forgotten as he got up and out of his chair, stalking to where she stood. Taking in her attire, he was mildly surprised, though it didn't show. She wore a pair of black dress pants, along with a white sleeved shirt. Her hair was being held in a bun by a pair of chopsticks. Again she wore no makeup or jewelry, just as he had seen her before. She looked ready, and willing to *work*. His eyes dropped for only a second to her cast. He quickly noted that the name 'Shippo' was scribbled upon its surface, and briefly wondered whom he was, before deciding not to comment and continued his once-over.
She radiated confidence, but upon further inspection Sesshoumaru could swear that she was tinged with nervousness, for every now and then, her clear blue eyes would give a tiniest flicker. Sesshoumaru stopped directly in front of where she stood and grabbed her chin, while scrutinizing every feature of her face before letting go.
Kagome's jaw clenched, in an effort to keep the biting remarks at bay. 'How dare he?!' Sesshoumaru began to circle her, like a hunter would its prey. As the *hunter* revolved around, her eyes followed each step he took.
"What the hell are you, a hawk?!' Her irritation had gotten the better of her, and she lashed out with vengeance. Sesshoumaru was torn between the urge to smile at her easily upset state, or wreak havoc, for she had done the unimaginable and raised her voice to him. Only his father had been able to do that without receiving an invective lashing.
"Do not question me, wench," Sesshoumaru growled. It was apparent that he had opted for the latter. To most, he would appear intimidating, a force not to be tampered with, but Kagome knew he was *nothing* in comparison to her father.
"My name is *Kagome*." If looks could kill, he would die a thousand deaths.
"Do I look like I care?" She growled warningly at his impertinent inquiry. Her animalistic snarl startled Sesshoumaru, and only increased his frustration. "You have *no* idea about what your getting into *little girl*," he warned.
He was challenging her. They both knew it. The question was, would Kagome submit, and accept defeat? Living the next four years catering to his every whim, and acknowledging him as her better? Or would she rise to the challenge bestowed upon her? And in the end, either come out the victor, or ashamed of her very being.
"I can handle anything you can throw at me." She had accepted, now she must face the consequences. He raised one delicate eyebrow, before grabbing the enormous stack of papers and walking right past her, only to enter Kagome's office. Confused she followed only to see Sesshoumaru drop them upon her desk.
"File them into each branch of electronics." He stated gesturing absently to the file cabinet before heading back into his office. 'I suppose I don't have as much work anymore,' Sesshoumaru thought amused. 'That will take *forever*' Kagome's mind screamed, before she knew what was happening, Sesshoumaru had appeared once more in her office, placing another, equally large, pile by the first.'
"Also, make sure to arrange a meeting with the Sony corporation, for next Saturday at 2." He said not even glancing at her. "Oh and bye the way," Sesshoumaru stopped right before crossing the threshold to his own office, "I'd like a cup of green tea." And with the barest of smiles, he was gone. 'Maybe this wasn't such a good idea.' Kagome thought after hearing the click of the door. 'No. I'll show him. I will be the *best* damn secretary there ever was to Sesshoumaru Takamada, even if it kills me.'
~*~
It had taken Kagome a little more than a half an hour to get him a cup of green tea, for she had lost count of how many times she had gotten lost. He hadn't even taken a sip from it before she had been out the door and searching through the wheel of phone numbers to find 'Sony's'.
"Hello, I'd like to speak with the owner of the Sony Corporation." She spoke clearly into the headset, while already paging through the documents on her desk. So caught up in her work, she didn't notice someone entering her office. "This is Sesshoumaru Takamada's secretary, from Shikon corp. Yes. Thank you! He would like a meeting to be arranged for next Saturday at 2 pm," she said pleasantly. "Alright, Thank you again!" She took off the headset and started to arrange the mounds of paper into their proper categories when her concentration was interrupted by an awkward 'ahem'.
Kagome's smile turned to a frown as she was greeted by the sight of Sesshoumaru's younger brother, Inuyasha. The feeling of dread prospered, when Kagome recalled their last encounter, but she was still quick to replace her frown with a forced smile. Unlike his brother, he wore his suit, minus the confining blazer, yet he still managed to look incredibly uncomfortable.
"What can I do for you?" she asked in false cheer, momentarily putting her massive task on hold. He appeared awkward as he shifted his weight from one foot to the other, and began to look at anything besides the girl sitting in front of him.
"Uh... I um. wanted to say sorry about.," he trialed off for a second, trying to find the right words, ". about pissing you off at the party," 'excellently put Inuyasha,' he berated himself silently.
Kagome's smile became softer, and more genuine, after his coarse apology. "It's alright. I overreacted. Her voice became less strained, and more comfortable as she spoke. "I apologize for having screamed at you," Inuyasha sighed, relieved that his request for forgiveness was over. It wasn't exactly his forte.
"You think that we could start over?" he asked, hope easily being heard in his voice. There was a certain *something* about this girl that reminded him of the phrase, 'one in a million'. And he would be a fool not to get to know her.
"I'd like that." Kagome gave Inuyasha one of her heart stopping smiles. 'Maybe he isn't as bad as I thought.'
"Well, I'd like to introduce myself," Inuyasha stated lightheartedly, "My name is Inuyasha Takamada," he reached over to shake her hand, "and I have been told that I can be kind of a jerk," Kagome giggled as she started to introduce her self.
"Nice to meet you Inuyasha! My name is Kagome Lee Higurashi, and for future reference. I *never* cry."
"Never?" He asked, a little surprised. She shook her head.
"Never."
He nodded, acceptingly, before he turned his attention to her cast. "You broke your arm," he stated.
"Observant, aren't you?' she teased. If it had not been for the twinkle in those big beautiful eyes of hers, he would have taken offense. Instead he flashed her a charming smirk.
"Yeah, I know." Kagome rolled her eyes. "So how did you do it?" he asked more seriously.
"*Long* story," Kagome answered, 'one which I never plan to tell' He shrugged.
"I've got time."
"Yeah, well I don't," she said gesturing to her desk, with a slight grimace on her face.
"Ah." he stated knowingly. "Sesshoumaru is quite slave driver, ain't he?"
"That's putting it mildly," Kagome said, sounding little more than dejected. She even began to pout and Inuyasha chuckled at the picture she made.
"Seriously, don't let Sesshoumaru get to you. Just hang in there, and he'll eventually lighten up." Kagome didn't answer, but she highly doubted that after this morning that he would 'lighten up' as Inuyasha called it. He probably would end up pushing her harder. "Well, that is, unless you did something stupid and now he holds a grudge against you," 'whoops?' "See ya later!" Inuyasha called, already making his way out the door.
"Bye," Kagome said, feeling the all too familiar sense of foreboding, as she wondered exactly what Sesshoumaru was capable of.
~*~
~2:45~
It was over four hours later before she had seen another human being. Not even Sesshoumaru had come to check upon her during that time.
Kaede's old face contorted into a frown when she walked through the door, only to find Kagome sitting in front of the grey filing cabinet, delicately placing in sheets of paper, one by one, as fast as she could.
"Kagome?" Kaede spoke. Kagome swiftly looked up and gave her a quick smile before turning her attention back to work.
"Yes Kaede?"
"How long have you been doing that, dear?" Kaede asked worriedly.
"Oh," Kagome rapidly glanced at her watch before getting back to work. "About 4 hours or so," she stated nonchalantly. Kaede made her way to where she sat, and placed her hands over Kagome's, sufficiently gaining her full attention.
"Have you even had *lunch* yet?" Kaede's concern was evident.
Kagome looked surprised as she answered the inquiry of the old woman. "I guess I haven't."
"Why on earth not?!" Kaede's worry now started combining with aggravation.
"I just forgot is all, Kaede," Kagome said, trying to calm the older woman down. She didn't think it was healthy for a woman her age to get so upset.
"And four hours!" Kaede began rambling. "My God! You have been working for *four* hours straight! Did Sesshoumaru make you do this?! Work so long without even eating?! I bet he did, that no good arrogant."
"Kaede!" Kagome all but shouted. "Mr. Takamada did *no* such thing. I just *completely* lost track of time. That's all it was." Kagome said, slightly panting from her outburst. Kaede scowled, but grudgingly accepted the answer.
"You still need to get something to eat Kagome," Kaede spoke sternly.
"Alright, fine." Kagome waved her hands in a surrender-like gesture. 'Even though I've certainly gone longer with out food before' "Let me just go tell Mr. Takamada I'm taking my lunch break, okay?" Kaede nodded, but kept a keen eye on Kagome as she grabbed her purse and entered Sesshoumaru's office.
~*~
Kagome knocked briefly on Sesshoumaru's office door, before entering. He looked up from his computer screen where he had been diligently typing away moments before.
"Don't you have some work to do, *Higurashi*?" The hint of amusement in his voice was unmistakable. Kagome's voice was strained as she tried to keep the conversation between Sesshoumaru boss and herself civilized.
"Yes *sir*, but Kaede-sama thought it was time for me to take my lunch break." 'She hasn't had lunch yet? It's almost three.' Sesshoumaru had just assumed that she had *already* eaten without even consulting to him. But here she was, informing him that she wouldn't be available for a while.
"So." Kagome was cut off by someone entering Sesshoumaru's office uninvited.
"Sesshoumaru, dad wants to..." He smiled brightly when he saw the other occupant in the room. "Oh, hey Kagome!" She readily returned the smile. "Like I was saying, dad wants to talk to ya," he said turning his attention back to Sesshoumaru. "You going somewhere?" he asked, eyeing Kagome's purse.
"I'm taking my lunch break," She turned back to Sesshoumaru only to be interrupted again. 'Man, that is getting annoying' Kagome thought.
"You haven't had *lunch* yet?"
"Yes, now if there isn't anything you need Mr. Takamada, I'll be back in a half an hour or so," Kagome said getting ready to leave.
"Hey Kag, you think you'd mind some company?" Inuyasha asked. Kagome stopped short to gaze intently at him.
"I'd love for you to come Inuyasha, but isn't there something you need to be doing?"
"Nah, I don't do much around here anyway," he said shrugging. Kagome's bright smile lit the room.
Sesshoumaru was forgotten as Inuyasha offered his arm, and it did not escape his perception that Kagome hadn't hesitated to take.
Jealousy coursed through his veins, spreading like wildfire throughout his body and before he knew it, he felt a strong desire to wipe that smug smile off his whelp of a brother's face. 'Since when are they so close? The last time I checked, Higurashi was ready to tear Inuyasha apart.' But the scene he just witnessed said nothing about repugnance or even dislike. His hands clenched, in an effort to regain control over his defiant emotions. 'She is nothing. I have no reason to feel this way.' And with that, he headed to his father.
~*~
"You called?" It was more of a statement than an actual question.
"Yes, take a seat son." Sesshoumaru remained standing. "Or stand if you prefer," Inu Tashio said, a bit irritated when his son didn't comply.
"Kaede tells me that Ms. Kagome is just *now* having lunch. Is this true?" Sesshoumaru nodded, confirming his father's information. "Did you not think to suggest earlier, that it would be in her best interest to eat?" Though he admired his old man, Sesshoumaru hated how his father had the ability to make him feel as though he had done something wrong, when he hadn't.
"I was unaware that the Higurashi girl hadn't eaten anything." His father seemed to understand this answer, somewhat begrudgingly though.
"Well other than that, how is she doing?" Inu Tashio asked, not showing how curious he truly was.
"She is doing fine I *suppose*,"
"You '*suppose*'? Don't you *know*?"
"I had work to do." That was his only answer, his only excuse, and it was poor one at that.
He couldn't deny the need to see how well she was doing on several occasions, but surprisingly, he managed to suppress it. That is, until her office was empty, and she could no longer be found roaming inside. He had peeked inside, hoping to find something wrong, or out of place, but no. She had made sure to put ever single document inside the file cabinet until her return, not failing to lock it before she left either. And if he hadn't been summoned to speak with his father, Sesshoumaru would have retrieved his *own* key, and surveyed her work.
But instead he had to listen to his father drone away, while he secretly wondered what was happening at Kagome's lunch.
~*~
It wasn't until late that evening that Sesshoumaru had a chance to talk to Inuyasha. Well, he would have talked to him, if Inuyasha hadn't raved about her company all throughout dinner.
"She really is awesome Dad, " Inuyasha told his father, since it looked as it his brother wasn't paying attention. Sesshoumaru could tell his father was struggling to keep from outright laughing at his youngest son's uncharacteristic behavior.
"After we ate lunch, we had a little time left before she needed to get back to the office, so we took a quick walk through the park nearby and we ended up running into this kid. I think his name was. Shippo or something. Anyways." At that point, Sesshoumaru began to drown out the bothersome sound of his brother's voice. 'He seems utterly infatuated with her' Sesshoumaru noted with disgust, as he glared at the animated face of Inuyasha, as he retold everything about what had transpired between Kagome and himself.
Jealousy had had managed to rear its ugly head once more, and Sesshoumaru couldn't help wishing that he had never wanted to know what had taken place between his brother and Kagome. *It wasn't like he cared anyway.* But the truth was, he knew nothing about her.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(Hint: The next chapter will tell if Kagome managed to get all the work Sesshoumaru gave her done. ()
A/N: So what did you all think? :: nervously pulls on hands:: (bad habit of mine) ::sheepish smile:: ( I think it was better than last chapter for sure, though the ending wasn't my favorite. What about *you* peoples? Oh , and I am really sorry for how late this was. I can't *believe* how busy I have been. And thank you, to everyone that reviewed. Okay. now in my *last* chapter I asked if you peeps thought I should do a highlighting type of thing, so here it goes. Tell me if you think I should keep doing it or not. (Request: Can anyone help me out with the summery?! I would really appreciate it!"
Highlights: (stuff to keep in mind)
Kagome couldn't lie to Shippo
Sesshoumaru can see small details about Kagome's actual feelings. (like her being nervous.
Kagome blames herself for her mother's death.
Kagome and Inuyasha are becoming friends.
Kagome's father would do almost *anything* to make sure she is miserable.
(I know this one was kind of unclear) Kagome plans to use the money that was found in her mother's box, for fun things for herself. To 'live life to its fullest'.
Notice how Sesshoumaru keeps trying to convince himself that Kagome 'is nothing'.
It was hinted in this chapter that Kagome's father would sometimes make her go without food for a while.
In Sesshoumaru's mind, Inuyasha likes Kagome, but that isn't reality.
Well that's all I can think of for now. What do you think?
Review Responses:
I: Awesome!
.:`~Crimson~`:. : I am glad you think so! Lol. ( You are so sweet! Ooooo I LOVE root beer! Mmmm. I think I want some *now*. Anyways, I hope this chapter lived up to your expectations!
myinuyasha04: Lol. Good! I hope this satisfied your need for a Sess/Kag meeting!
nuria: Hey, in the first chapter (though if you don't remember I don't blame you () it like says that he convinced her it was her fault that her mom died.
InvisibleRain: Well, I glad I gave you your first! LOL! Her mother died giving birth to Kagome. (very important) And Shippo is just helping out at the restaurant. That's how he gets his allowance. And no he doesn't have a horrible life at home, he just is a normal little boy. Kagome didn't walk in because she didn't have to work that day. It was basically a way for Sesshoumaru to see that Kagome kept her mask on even when she was by herself. She hides her true feelings and emotions. I hope this covers your need for interaction! ( Thanks! (wow that was long)
Soudesuka-Shurikens: Engaging. good word. I do that sometimes, compliment words that I don't hear very often. ::sheepish smile:: bad habit. (
Shanaka: Thank you!
Dragon Rae: I think I did. I can't remember. oh well. (
hyper person: Thanks!
Glass Thorn: So how did the highlights work out?
ellie: Of course it is! Here is the beloved interaction! Ah hah!
Stardreamer090: Oooo, it does that for me too! Yes, Sessie is a hottie. mmmm. ( I know! Ramen is sooo good, but soooooo unhealthy. I haven't had it in forever. mmmm, I want some now. Yeah you were right. It was more of a necessity, than enjoyable. What about this chapter though? I like it much better. Who couldn't love you reviews!!! Don't change! Your rambunctiousness (is that a word? I don't think so) is endearing. This may sound stupid but. what is a xanga? Oooo I can't wait for your stories to come out! What are they about? Can't wait to talk to ya again! Bye!
Thundergirl: Wow! Chocolate! Awesome compliment! Not really, thanks for the review!
ilovesashimi: Is this chapter good?
chocolategumybearofdoom: Thanks for the review!
Flame99: Thanks for the review!