Disclaimer: I own nothing. Inuyasha and company are NOT mine, though I
can't help wishing~
Title: Underneath Her Mask
(A/n: I have an important announcement. I have decided that this story will be a i/k/s. Sesshoumaru and Kagome fans, DO NOT BE ALARMED! It will *still* be the final pairing of s/k. The only change that will take place is that Inuyasha will develop feeling for Kagome, but she will never actually find out so it really doesn't make a big difference.)
~
Chapter 6: Their First Conversation
~
Kagome entered the room with the swarms of freshmen who wanted to get to class early. She managed to find a seat near the back, sitting next to a girl whose hair was tied in a high pony-tail atop of her head. When Kagome had sat down, the girl held out her hand.
"Hi, my name is Sango Tajia," She greeted, smiling brightly. Kagome's own nervousness was ebbed away by the friendly gesture from the forthcoming teen.
"I'm Kagome Higurashi," she replied, shaking Sango's hand.
"So, what classes are you taking Sango?"
"Well," she started pulling out her schedule, "after this I've got Accounting." She stopped momentarily to look distastefully at her agenda, "how fitting for a *Monday*. Then a little later on I've got Business management class and that's it for~" she trailed off and Kagome looked at her questioningly. Her eye began twitching dangerously, her hands were fisted, and she was glaring daggers at her own rear-end. There was a hand *caressing* her butt! Kagome looked on with shock as Sango pummeled the boy sitting next to her for his indecent touch.
"My sweet Sango! My hands have a mind of their own, I swear!" He tried unsuccessfully to convince her.
"Yeah right houshi! And pigs fly!"
While they sat bickering, out of the corner of her eye, Kagome saw flash of silver. 'No, it can't be.' But it was. Blue met gold as they stared each other down. It looked as if he was heading directly towards her, yet he passed her up to sit in the very back. 'What have I gotten myself into?'
"Sango, who's your pretty friend,?" he asked gaining Kagome's attention, and at the same time, completely forgetting that he was trying to get Sango to forgive him for his 'cursed' hand.
"You're hopeless!" She yelled hitting him on the head once more.
"Kagome this is Miroku, also known as 'the lecher'" she grumbled and was startled to hear the sound of laughter coming from the person whom she just got finished insulting.
"Did you say 'Kagome'? As in Kagome Higurashi? The girl who kicked Inuyasha's ass in front of a hell of a lot of people, at that business party thing he went to?" She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, a nervous habit of hers.
"I wouldn't say I 'kicked his ass' per say, but I did kind of (cough, cough) slap him in front of everybody." She glanced at Sango only to see the girls mouth opened slightly, clearly surprised. That is until she broke out laughing.
"Kagome," She said when her laughter died down. "You and I are going to get along just *fine*."
The teacher entered the room at that moment, signaling class had begun. Kagome discretely stole a look at Miroku and Sango who were now staring intently at the professor as he spoke. So far, her new life was off to a great start. 'I wonder how long it will last.'
~
The three of them were strolling together on the campus grounds, killing time before their next class.
"Oi!" Inuyasha shouted and came jogging up to the trio.
"Hey Inuyasha! Guess what! ," she said linking her arm with the girl beside her. "We happened to find your Kagome, and I have to tell you that I don't think I'm going to give her back." The two girls giggled and Sango began to pull her down the walkway. Neither of the girls noticed the little bit of red, hinting at Inuyasha's cheeks, but Miroku had.
"Hey Inuyasha, last time I checked, you and Kagome were not exactly on 'friendly' terms. What happened?"
"She is working as a secretary for Sesshoumaru." Miroku already knew about the merger.
"So that automatically makes you best buds?" he asked doubtfully. Inuyasha muttered something under his breath. "What was that?" Miroku leaned forward.
"I said, I apologized and we ended up having lunch!" he yelled, drawing the attention of many students on campus. 'Inuyasha actually *apologized*?'
"Since when do *you* apologize!? You and I have been friends since grade school, and not *once* have you *ever* apologize to me!" Miroku argued.
"I knew I had been a," he shifted uncomfortably, "a *jerk*, so I said I was sorry." 'Now I've seen it all' Miroku though looking at Inuyasha.
"So what, you *like* her or something?" he nudged Inuyasha with his elbow and wiggled his eyebrows suggestively. "You know, I do remember you *distinctly* blushing when Sango called Kagome *yours*." He started to tap his chin. "And now that I think about it, you didn't bother to correct her." Within the second, he smartly took off running with Inuyasha hot on his heels.
"Pervert! Get your ass back here!"
~
"Kagome, lets go see what' up on the message board!" Sango said excitedly as she led her compliant friend towards the towering board in front of the school. There were appliances for sale, jobs available, roommates wanted, but what caught the girl's attention was the huge quantity of clubs.
"Wow, there are so many," Kagome said in awe.
"Yeah, isn't it great?" said Sango who had already grabbed three of the flyers and was going back for more. She looked remarkably like a kid in a candy store. "What do you want to join?"
"I don't know. It's hard to decide."
"Hey there's a self-defense class going on. You and I should join!" she said handing the flyer to Kagome. 'Self Defense, Learn to protect yourself!' is what it said in bold. 'learn to protect myself, hmm'
"Maybe we should," Kagome said softly.
"I have a great idea! Lets just take two of everything, and then you and I can each look over which we want to join when we have more time!" Happy with this decision, she proceeded to grab two of each flyer.
~
(Work-2:00) . She set the black and photo in its wooden frame on her desk, allowing her to be able to study the picture of her mother at any point in time for the next 6 hour's of the day. She didn't dare keep it at home, fearful of her father showing up unexpectedly and finding the photo. There was no telling what he would do if he found the picture of Kagome's mother. Her mother's note hid in between the photo and its frame. It's not like it was much safer here at the office, but at least it offered some protection.
On her way to greet the man she was required to call 'boss' here at work, she spotted the file cabinet in the corner of her eye and smiled. The look on Sesshoumaru's face when she told him she was finished was priceless.
She knocked twice after hearing a muffled 'come in' opened the door. He mouth nearly hit the floor. Sesshoumaru sat in his swivel chair, rubbing his temples rhythmically, while a wild little girl ran rampant around the room. Papers were strewn anywhere and everywhere. A tiny pink backpack was thrown in the corner and hello kitty toys littered the floor. Then it happened. The hyper 7 year old girl skipped to her brother and began braiding his long silver mane. The sight was too much.
(A/N: I changed the length of Sesshoumaru's hair. Now it's down to his butt. ()
Kagome began to tremble. She leaned her back against the hard wooden door for support and held onto her gut. Her body shook with barely contained peals of laughter, and her hair created a curtain to veil her eyes. He looked up at her and growled lowly. His patience, it appeared, had reached its end.
Sesshoumaru got up from his seat, Rin tripping after him, and stalked across the floor till he stood directly in front of Kagome. He grabbed her chin and forced her to meet his eyes. Her entire face was radiating with mirth. 'She looks even more beautiful when she smiles' He had never seen her so happy, and he lost himself in the shimmering pools of azure, only to come out of his hazy state when he realized exactly what he was doing..
^
His eyes bore into her own and it was as if he could see *everything*, her thoughts and feeling, her hopes and dreams, ~her fears~.
"I suggest you stop your *irritating* laughter" Kagome's body stopped its shaking but her grin would not subside.
"I'm glad you're in a good mood because today's workload will be nothing like yesterday's *meager* quantity." Her smile didn't waver. 'It would be *so* worth it' As it turns out, the war was still going on strong.
"I look forward to it."
(A/n: Hurray for Kagome!)
~
"Kagome-chan?"
"Hmm," she responded, still gazing at the computer screen.
"Does Kagome-chan *like* Sesshoumaru-sama?" Kagome now glanced at Rin's face and she couldn't bring herself to smother the bright ray of hope she saw.
"Yes Rin, I like Sesshoumaru-sama," 'maybe,' she silently added. 'But *probably* not.'
"Good, because then you can marry Sesshoumaru-sama and become Rin's big sister," she said happily. Kagome stopped mid-type.
"Uh, Rin? I think you got the wrong idea. I don't like Sesshoumaru-sama *that way*, and he *really* doesn't like me."
"Oh," she looked as if she wanted to cry. Kagome had to say something, *anything* as long as it soothed the girl's qualms.
"But you know, we could *pretend* to be sisters." Kagome said, hoping to cheer her up.
"Really?"
"Yep!"
At that moment Inuyasha decided to pop his head through the doorway. Seeing the occupants he stepped over the threshold in two long strides. He looked amazingly casual with his hands shoved in the pockets of his dress pants and the first couple of buttons undone on his work shirt.
"Hey! I didn't know you were here Rin."
"Hi Inuyasha," Rin responded bubbly. "Did you come to see me and my sister Kagome!?"
"'Sister'?" he raised his eyebrow and looked amusedly towards Kagome, but before she could explain, Rin spoke for her.
"Uh-huh! Kagome-chan is my *pretend* sister, *only* because she and Sesshoumaru-sama won't get married and make her my *real* sister." Inuyasha didn't know what came over him. He felt spiteful and vindictive.
"Oh *please*, who in their right mind would marry a guy like *Sesshoumaru*?" He said harshly, crossing his arms. His cruel tone has startled Kagome. 'I wonder if something's wrong.'
"Hey!" Rin said suddenly. "Will *you* marry Kagome-chan?" Inuyasha became bright red and started sputtering, and even Kagome was looking a little flustered.
"Rin, nobody wants to marry me." Inuyasha's eyes snapped up to look at her. She had spoken with such clarity and conviction. 'Does she *really* think that?'
"But why not? You're really pretty, and oh! Is this you?" she asked pointing the black and white photograph.
"No silly, that's my mother." 'That's her mother?' thought Inuyasha. 'They look astonishingly alike.' But Inuyasha couldn't get rid of the feeling that there was something worldly different between the two.
"Where is she?" Rin asked innocently.
"Rin," Inuyasha scolded.
"No, it's alright Inuyasha," Kagome said smiling, just glad to be off the subject of marriage. In all honesty, she didn't think she had the option of getting married even if she wanted to. She just wasn't good enough. She was *never* good enough Not for her father. Not for anyone. "My mom died a long time ago."
"Oh that's so sad. I bet you miss her a lot." Kagome nodded. "How did she die?" 'I killed her'
"She ~" 'How do I put this?' "Well, she lost a lot of blood."
Rin walked over to Kagome and gave her a great big hug, leaving a warm feeling in her chest. "Thanks Rin." 'It's been so long since I've been hugged liked that.'
"Say Rin? Would you like to sign my cast?"
"Can I?" Kagome nodded.
"Inuyasha, you come sign too," Kagome said when Rin was finished.
"You don't want me to sign your cast." He said shaking his head.
"Yes I do." Seeing she wasn't getting anywhere she held up the black pen, pouted and added, "*Please*." He couldn't say no.
"Fine." He grumbled, grabbing the pen and quickly scribbling down his name. "Happy?" She smiled.
"Exceedingly," she teased.
"Hey Kagome, what's 'exceedingly'?" Rin wandered.
"It mean's very"
"Oooo! Can Rin go tell Sesshoumaru-sama the new word Rin learned?"
"Uh, that might not be such a good idea Rin," she said, remembering earlier this afternoon.
"Well, I got to go work on homework. I can't *believe*that we got homework on the first day," he groaned. "Hey, what time do you get off anyways?'
"I get off at 8:00, why?"
He shrugged. "Just wondering. See ya."
"Bye Inuyasha."
"Bye-bye" chirped Rin.
~
(5:00 o'clock)
When Sesshoumaru walked into Kagome's office, he hadn't known exactly what he had expected to find, but it had't been what he saw. Kagome was sitting at her desk, typing diligently away on the computer, despite the broken arm, and Rin was sitting contently behind her, braiding her silky smooth hair. The room showed no signs that a hyper 7 year old had been there to begin with, not like his demolished office.
"Sesshoumaru-sama!" Rin greeted excitedly, yet she didn't move from her spot and attack him with an onslaught of hugs as she usually would. All she did was continue to braid Kagome's wavy black tresses He felt a stab of jealousy at seeing the two of them like that, so comfortable together.
"Rin, Father says it's time for you to go home, dinner's ready.." Kagome stopped her tying and Rin looked positively crushed, but nodded her head all the same.
"Bye Kagome-chan." She said as they hugged. They each held on tightly, as if afraid that if they let go, the other was going to disappear.
"Bye Rin, see ya around." Sesshoumaru's former jealousy turned into confusion as he studied the face of his secretary while his sister left. She smiled warmly, yet her eyes held a pain, a deep seated longing. 'What are you hiding?' he thought as she turned to him with her premium mask back in its place.
"Is there anything I can do for you Mr. Takamada?"
"How is that report coming along?"
"Fine."
"Good, because I want it on my desk by tomorrow." His lips curled upwards. "Don't be late." He was about to enter his own office when he heard a distinguished rattle. He turned around to see Kagome struggling with a bottle of pills, painkillers by the looks of it. She would no doubt spill it all over the floor the way she was going about it. He audibly sighed and walked over to where she sat and popped the bottle open with the flick of his wrist, and without a word, moved to leave.
"Thank you," she whispered softly. He said nothing and kept striding forth. 'Why did I help her?' Unknown to him Kagome was asking herself that very same thing. The question remained unanswered, by both Kagome and himself.
~
It was 8:30 before Sesshoumaru decided to head home for the day. He needed to start on an assignment given to him by on of his professors. He turned off the lights, but saw an illumination coming from the crevice underneath the door, connecting his office to Kagome's. 'She's not still *here*, is she?' He opened the door.
"Don't tell me you 'lost track of time' *again* Higurashi?" his voice goaded. She forced herself to bite her tongue to keep from verbally lashing him.
"I am very aware of the time, thank you Mr. Takamada," she said with her tone clipped. "As a matter of fact I was just about to leave." 'you jackass' She turned off the computer and grabbed her purse. Heading towards the door she called back. "Are you coming or do you just plan on standing their all night?" He opened his mouth to retort, but nothing came out. He was left to follow, trying to salvage what dignity he had left.
They walked through the building and out the entrance together and separated at the parking lot. Kagome journeyed down the sidewalk to her apartment and Sesshoumaru traveled to his sleek Jaguar.
"Goodnight Mr. Takamada." She said as they parted.
"Goodnight." He hadn't meant to reply. It had just slipped out. They were both surprised, yet kept on walking in their different directions, without so much as a glance back.
~
The rest of the week flew by for Kagome. She studied hard, avoided Sesshoumaru, and her friendships continued to grow.
"Hey Kagome, do you work tonight?" Sango asked before taking a bite of her Chinese food. They sat in a cute inexpensive restaurant, though Kagome still preferred the Raman café.
She wiped her mouth with her napkin before replying. "Nope, Inu Tashio gave me Friday's and Saturday's off. He says that a young person like me should be out having fun on the weekend, and not be cooped up in some office."
"Inu Tashio is such a nice guy." Kagome whole-heartedly agreed. Just then, Inuyasha and Miroku sat down next to them after having ordered their own food.
"Well what do you think about going to see a movie or something?" Sango suggested.
"Yeah, that new Jackie Chan movie is out I think," supplied Miroku.
"I've never been to a movie theater before." Her friends dropped their chop sticks and stared blatantly when Kagome spoke out loud..
"You've *never* been to a movie before?" Inuyasha asked, unsure if he had heard correctly. Kagome nodded her head
"You're all looking at me really *weird*. It's not *that* unheard of, *is it*?"
"Kagome, you have *officially* been living in a hole," Sango said taking another bite. 'I can't believe she has never even gone to see a *movie* before. What else hasn't she done,' Inuyasha thought to himself.
"So it's decided. We'll go see the Jackie Chan movie around seven or so," he confirmed, before digging into his own food.
-(At the movie)
"Wow, this is so, *wow*," Kagome stared with admiration at the movie theater. She inhaled deeply, savoring the smell of buttered popcorn and the sound of people's laughter. She looked to Inuyasha who was currently standing by her side. Miroku and Sango were busy getting popcorn and candy.
"Inuyasha," she spoke softly, "thank you *so* much." Her eyes glimmered with gratitude and uneasy with her intent gaze, he retorted roughly. "Don't thank me for anything. Seeing a movie is no big deal," He huffed, crossing his arms.
'It is to me Inuyasha, it is to me.'
-At Inuyasha's house later that night-
Inuyasha sat alone in front of the fire, watching the flames as they danced. Sesshoumaru walked in with a book in hand, prepared to spend the rest of his evening reading the tales of Edgar Allen Poe, when he saw Inuyasha. If he had noticed Sesshoumaru was even there he didn't say anything. Determined not to let the presence of his brother bother him, Sesshoumaru sat down, and opened his thick book to the page he had left off at.
"You know, she hadn't ever been to a movie before tonight." Inuyasha kept his eyes on the blazing fire. "What a *sheltered* life she must lead." Sesshoumaru was surprised at the unusual insight coming from his younger brother.
"I'm not so sure that sheltered is the right word for it," Sesshoumaru spoke quietly, "But you're correct. There is something peculiar about her." He said nothing about how he believed Kagome was hiding something from them. His brother would likely take it the wrong way, and get angry. For a long time they each remained quiet, lost in their thoughts and listening to the crackling of the fire.
"You know, I don't think she even knows how beautiful she is," Inuyasha said, remembering when she spoke of no one wanting her. 'How could she *not* know?' Sesshoumaru thought to himself.
Behind them he stood unnoticed, listening to the first conversation they ever shared without bickering. Inu Tashio smiled and left them to their thoughts.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Hello again! Sorry it has been so long. Free time seems to elude me, But as god as my witness, this will be up by next Saturday! ::shakes fist up at the sky:: ~I hope~. At least I tried to make this as long as I could. This chapter was more Inuyasha/Kagome, but next chapter there will be *tons* more Sess/Kag. I'm sending out a 911 to all you people out there who are reading this! I need a beta reader! If anyone is willing please e-mail me, okay? I need HELP!
Requirements: -creative -decent grammar -decent vocabulary
(
On a different not, I want to thank all of you that reviewed! I almost have 100 reviews! I feel so excited! And you know what, they have all been pretty positive! I ask all of you to remember that constructive criticism is just as appreciated as ::beams:: *compliments*. Thanks again! And keep reviewing! Oh and one more thing, what do you all think of the guide line thing? No one told me what they thought about it! So if no one tells me whether they like it or not I am taking it down!
Helpful Hints:
Kagome was never sexually assaulted by her father.
In case you didn't read the first a/n, Inuyasha *is* developing feeling for Kagome but it WILL be a Sesshoumaru/Kagome fic.
(Someone asked this question) Onigumo's last name is Higurashi too, he never changed it because that would have been looked at as disgraceful.
This IS a Sesshoumaru/Kagome fic! (I can't press that enough)
Kagome tucks her hair behind her ear when she's nervous.
IMPORTANT: Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha have basically NEVER had a conversation where there was no arguing. Kagome was the source of conversation.
That's all I can think of right now!
Reviews Responses:
Goddess-of-the-white-wing: Thank you! I hope I can keep it interesting. This is my favorite story I've written so far so I want to make it good.
LethiferousChatelaine: Cool name. I like that too! I am so sorry this was so late. I have been so busy, but it is my personal goal not to exceed over 2 weeks again. Please review again!
BloodRoseOTDemon: I'm glad you love it!
Blackiecat: You are so sweet! That's okay about chapter 4, I understand. It's really nice that you tried. Is there anything you think I should do with this story? Please review again.
Vampira, the damned: Ooooo I love the part about Shippo too! I think you're the only person to comment on it. Thank for reviewing. Question: Do you read books about vampires? Have you read anything written by Anne Rice? By the way, sorry about the late update. ::sheepish smile::
emelynoooopee: How did you come up with that name? It is so CUTE! Yes Onigumo's last name is Higurashi as well, basically because that to have changed his child's name would have been looked upon as disgraceful bye the other members of 'high society'. I hope that answers your question!
shanaka: Thanks!
Thundergirl: It's good to hear from you again!
Kaimi: I know! Sess/Kag is my FAVORITE pairing.
Stardreamer090: Hello again! Like I said in the first A/n in this chapter at the top this is a K/S, but Inuyasha develops feeling for Kagome. Tell when you get your xanga up! Wow if it was valentines week the last time I updated, that was like-forever ago. I have to work on that. But don't worry about the not having a valentine this year. Join the club, consisting of – ME!
ioke: I'm glad you like it!
Cold-Hearted NightFox. Thank you!
Dragon Rae: Sorry this took REALLY long to update.
Glass Thorn: What do you think about the 'guide line' thing?
The Couples Writer: Hey I noticed you call yourself The Couples Writer, but you don't' have anything written! Do you plan on writing something, or is it just a name you like?
myinuyasha04: Hey are *you* any good with grammar?
hyper person: I hope I can clear up a few things for you. 1 Naraku has a grudge against Kagome because if Kagome hadn't have been born, his wife wouldn't have died giving birth to her. Also she looks like her mother clone basically, and is except her character is stronger than her mothers, and she can stand up for herself. 2 Kagome was NOT sexually abused. Hey, but you should read my other story, Something Special.
InvisibleRain: I'm glad that I was able to answer your questions. Hey do you think that you might like to be my beta reader? You could tell me whether the chapter was cliché or not! I am really bad with that kind of thing, but I'm trying to work on it, and I'm glad that you liked the chapter anyways. One more thing, thank you so much for the constructive criticism. It is greatly appreciated.
faded-illusion: Koga will be showing up but that's all I'm going to say about him. Hee hee. I just didn't want to use the same name as everyone else for the bad guy you know? Kikyo will be showing up at school, I'm not so sure about hiten, but he is kinda cute! I think I'll try to put him somewhere.
Emerald Wolfzban: Very disturbing.
Chocolategummybearofdoom + tasina: Thank you both for reviewing, and you know if you send your demons after me it will only take LONGER for me to update, and I already need all the help I can get. Hey, I have a question for you! Why is it that for every chapter I update, you are able to review like a minute later?
Title: Underneath Her Mask
(A/n: I have an important announcement. I have decided that this story will be a i/k/s. Sesshoumaru and Kagome fans, DO NOT BE ALARMED! It will *still* be the final pairing of s/k. The only change that will take place is that Inuyasha will develop feeling for Kagome, but she will never actually find out so it really doesn't make a big difference.)
~
Chapter 6: Their First Conversation
~
Kagome entered the room with the swarms of freshmen who wanted to get to class early. She managed to find a seat near the back, sitting next to a girl whose hair was tied in a high pony-tail atop of her head. When Kagome had sat down, the girl held out her hand.
"Hi, my name is Sango Tajia," She greeted, smiling brightly. Kagome's own nervousness was ebbed away by the friendly gesture from the forthcoming teen.
"I'm Kagome Higurashi," she replied, shaking Sango's hand.
"So, what classes are you taking Sango?"
"Well," she started pulling out her schedule, "after this I've got Accounting." She stopped momentarily to look distastefully at her agenda, "how fitting for a *Monday*. Then a little later on I've got Business management class and that's it for~" she trailed off and Kagome looked at her questioningly. Her eye began twitching dangerously, her hands were fisted, and she was glaring daggers at her own rear-end. There was a hand *caressing* her butt! Kagome looked on with shock as Sango pummeled the boy sitting next to her for his indecent touch.
"My sweet Sango! My hands have a mind of their own, I swear!" He tried unsuccessfully to convince her.
"Yeah right houshi! And pigs fly!"
While they sat bickering, out of the corner of her eye, Kagome saw flash of silver. 'No, it can't be.' But it was. Blue met gold as they stared each other down. It looked as if he was heading directly towards her, yet he passed her up to sit in the very back. 'What have I gotten myself into?'
"Sango, who's your pretty friend,?" he asked gaining Kagome's attention, and at the same time, completely forgetting that he was trying to get Sango to forgive him for his 'cursed' hand.
"You're hopeless!" She yelled hitting him on the head once more.
"Kagome this is Miroku, also known as 'the lecher'" she grumbled and was startled to hear the sound of laughter coming from the person whom she just got finished insulting.
"Did you say 'Kagome'? As in Kagome Higurashi? The girl who kicked Inuyasha's ass in front of a hell of a lot of people, at that business party thing he went to?" She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, a nervous habit of hers.
"I wouldn't say I 'kicked his ass' per say, but I did kind of (cough, cough) slap him in front of everybody." She glanced at Sango only to see the girls mouth opened slightly, clearly surprised. That is until she broke out laughing.
"Kagome," She said when her laughter died down. "You and I are going to get along just *fine*."
The teacher entered the room at that moment, signaling class had begun. Kagome discretely stole a look at Miroku and Sango who were now staring intently at the professor as he spoke. So far, her new life was off to a great start. 'I wonder how long it will last.'
~
The three of them were strolling together on the campus grounds, killing time before their next class.
"Oi!" Inuyasha shouted and came jogging up to the trio.
"Hey Inuyasha! Guess what! ," she said linking her arm with the girl beside her. "We happened to find your Kagome, and I have to tell you that I don't think I'm going to give her back." The two girls giggled and Sango began to pull her down the walkway. Neither of the girls noticed the little bit of red, hinting at Inuyasha's cheeks, but Miroku had.
"Hey Inuyasha, last time I checked, you and Kagome were not exactly on 'friendly' terms. What happened?"
"She is working as a secretary for Sesshoumaru." Miroku already knew about the merger.
"So that automatically makes you best buds?" he asked doubtfully. Inuyasha muttered something under his breath. "What was that?" Miroku leaned forward.
"I said, I apologized and we ended up having lunch!" he yelled, drawing the attention of many students on campus. 'Inuyasha actually *apologized*?'
"Since when do *you* apologize!? You and I have been friends since grade school, and not *once* have you *ever* apologize to me!" Miroku argued.
"I knew I had been a," he shifted uncomfortably, "a *jerk*, so I said I was sorry." 'Now I've seen it all' Miroku though looking at Inuyasha.
"So what, you *like* her or something?" he nudged Inuyasha with his elbow and wiggled his eyebrows suggestively. "You know, I do remember you *distinctly* blushing when Sango called Kagome *yours*." He started to tap his chin. "And now that I think about it, you didn't bother to correct her." Within the second, he smartly took off running with Inuyasha hot on his heels.
"Pervert! Get your ass back here!"
~
"Kagome, lets go see what' up on the message board!" Sango said excitedly as she led her compliant friend towards the towering board in front of the school. There were appliances for sale, jobs available, roommates wanted, but what caught the girl's attention was the huge quantity of clubs.
"Wow, there are so many," Kagome said in awe.
"Yeah, isn't it great?" said Sango who had already grabbed three of the flyers and was going back for more. She looked remarkably like a kid in a candy store. "What do you want to join?"
"I don't know. It's hard to decide."
"Hey there's a self-defense class going on. You and I should join!" she said handing the flyer to Kagome. 'Self Defense, Learn to protect yourself!' is what it said in bold. 'learn to protect myself, hmm'
"Maybe we should," Kagome said softly.
"I have a great idea! Lets just take two of everything, and then you and I can each look over which we want to join when we have more time!" Happy with this decision, she proceeded to grab two of each flyer.
~
(Work-2:00) . She set the black and photo in its wooden frame on her desk, allowing her to be able to study the picture of her mother at any point in time for the next 6 hour's of the day. She didn't dare keep it at home, fearful of her father showing up unexpectedly and finding the photo. There was no telling what he would do if he found the picture of Kagome's mother. Her mother's note hid in between the photo and its frame. It's not like it was much safer here at the office, but at least it offered some protection.
On her way to greet the man she was required to call 'boss' here at work, she spotted the file cabinet in the corner of her eye and smiled. The look on Sesshoumaru's face when she told him she was finished was priceless.
She knocked twice after hearing a muffled 'come in' opened the door. He mouth nearly hit the floor. Sesshoumaru sat in his swivel chair, rubbing his temples rhythmically, while a wild little girl ran rampant around the room. Papers were strewn anywhere and everywhere. A tiny pink backpack was thrown in the corner and hello kitty toys littered the floor. Then it happened. The hyper 7 year old girl skipped to her brother and began braiding his long silver mane. The sight was too much.
(A/N: I changed the length of Sesshoumaru's hair. Now it's down to his butt. ()
Kagome began to tremble. She leaned her back against the hard wooden door for support and held onto her gut. Her body shook with barely contained peals of laughter, and her hair created a curtain to veil her eyes. He looked up at her and growled lowly. His patience, it appeared, had reached its end.
Sesshoumaru got up from his seat, Rin tripping after him, and stalked across the floor till he stood directly in front of Kagome. He grabbed her chin and forced her to meet his eyes. Her entire face was radiating with mirth. 'She looks even more beautiful when she smiles' He had never seen her so happy, and he lost himself in the shimmering pools of azure, only to come out of his hazy state when he realized exactly what he was doing..
^
His eyes bore into her own and it was as if he could see *everything*, her thoughts and feeling, her hopes and dreams, ~her fears~.
"I suggest you stop your *irritating* laughter" Kagome's body stopped its shaking but her grin would not subside.
"I'm glad you're in a good mood because today's workload will be nothing like yesterday's *meager* quantity." Her smile didn't waver. 'It would be *so* worth it' As it turns out, the war was still going on strong.
"I look forward to it."
(A/n: Hurray for Kagome!)
~
"Kagome-chan?"
"Hmm," she responded, still gazing at the computer screen.
"Does Kagome-chan *like* Sesshoumaru-sama?" Kagome now glanced at Rin's face and she couldn't bring herself to smother the bright ray of hope she saw.
"Yes Rin, I like Sesshoumaru-sama," 'maybe,' she silently added. 'But *probably* not.'
"Good, because then you can marry Sesshoumaru-sama and become Rin's big sister," she said happily. Kagome stopped mid-type.
"Uh, Rin? I think you got the wrong idea. I don't like Sesshoumaru-sama *that way*, and he *really* doesn't like me."
"Oh," she looked as if she wanted to cry. Kagome had to say something, *anything* as long as it soothed the girl's qualms.
"But you know, we could *pretend* to be sisters." Kagome said, hoping to cheer her up.
"Really?"
"Yep!"
At that moment Inuyasha decided to pop his head through the doorway. Seeing the occupants he stepped over the threshold in two long strides. He looked amazingly casual with his hands shoved in the pockets of his dress pants and the first couple of buttons undone on his work shirt.
"Hey! I didn't know you were here Rin."
"Hi Inuyasha," Rin responded bubbly. "Did you come to see me and my sister Kagome!?"
"'Sister'?" he raised his eyebrow and looked amusedly towards Kagome, but before she could explain, Rin spoke for her.
"Uh-huh! Kagome-chan is my *pretend* sister, *only* because she and Sesshoumaru-sama won't get married and make her my *real* sister." Inuyasha didn't know what came over him. He felt spiteful and vindictive.
"Oh *please*, who in their right mind would marry a guy like *Sesshoumaru*?" He said harshly, crossing his arms. His cruel tone has startled Kagome. 'I wonder if something's wrong.'
"Hey!" Rin said suddenly. "Will *you* marry Kagome-chan?" Inuyasha became bright red and started sputtering, and even Kagome was looking a little flustered.
"Rin, nobody wants to marry me." Inuyasha's eyes snapped up to look at her. She had spoken with such clarity and conviction. 'Does she *really* think that?'
"But why not? You're really pretty, and oh! Is this you?" she asked pointing the black and white photograph.
"No silly, that's my mother." 'That's her mother?' thought Inuyasha. 'They look astonishingly alike.' But Inuyasha couldn't get rid of the feeling that there was something worldly different between the two.
"Where is she?" Rin asked innocently.
"Rin," Inuyasha scolded.
"No, it's alright Inuyasha," Kagome said smiling, just glad to be off the subject of marriage. In all honesty, she didn't think she had the option of getting married even if she wanted to. She just wasn't good enough. She was *never* good enough Not for her father. Not for anyone. "My mom died a long time ago."
"Oh that's so sad. I bet you miss her a lot." Kagome nodded. "How did she die?" 'I killed her'
"She ~" 'How do I put this?' "Well, she lost a lot of blood."
Rin walked over to Kagome and gave her a great big hug, leaving a warm feeling in her chest. "Thanks Rin." 'It's been so long since I've been hugged liked that.'
"Say Rin? Would you like to sign my cast?"
"Can I?" Kagome nodded.
"Inuyasha, you come sign too," Kagome said when Rin was finished.
"You don't want me to sign your cast." He said shaking his head.
"Yes I do." Seeing she wasn't getting anywhere she held up the black pen, pouted and added, "*Please*." He couldn't say no.
"Fine." He grumbled, grabbing the pen and quickly scribbling down his name. "Happy?" She smiled.
"Exceedingly," she teased.
"Hey Kagome, what's 'exceedingly'?" Rin wandered.
"It mean's very"
"Oooo! Can Rin go tell Sesshoumaru-sama the new word Rin learned?"
"Uh, that might not be such a good idea Rin," she said, remembering earlier this afternoon.
"Well, I got to go work on homework. I can't *believe*that we got homework on the first day," he groaned. "Hey, what time do you get off anyways?'
"I get off at 8:00, why?"
He shrugged. "Just wondering. See ya."
"Bye Inuyasha."
"Bye-bye" chirped Rin.
~
(5:00 o'clock)
When Sesshoumaru walked into Kagome's office, he hadn't known exactly what he had expected to find, but it had't been what he saw. Kagome was sitting at her desk, typing diligently away on the computer, despite the broken arm, and Rin was sitting contently behind her, braiding her silky smooth hair. The room showed no signs that a hyper 7 year old had been there to begin with, not like his demolished office.
"Sesshoumaru-sama!" Rin greeted excitedly, yet she didn't move from her spot and attack him with an onslaught of hugs as she usually would. All she did was continue to braid Kagome's wavy black tresses He felt a stab of jealousy at seeing the two of them like that, so comfortable together.
"Rin, Father says it's time for you to go home, dinner's ready.." Kagome stopped her tying and Rin looked positively crushed, but nodded her head all the same.
"Bye Kagome-chan." She said as they hugged. They each held on tightly, as if afraid that if they let go, the other was going to disappear.
"Bye Rin, see ya around." Sesshoumaru's former jealousy turned into confusion as he studied the face of his secretary while his sister left. She smiled warmly, yet her eyes held a pain, a deep seated longing. 'What are you hiding?' he thought as she turned to him with her premium mask back in its place.
"Is there anything I can do for you Mr. Takamada?"
"How is that report coming along?"
"Fine."
"Good, because I want it on my desk by tomorrow." His lips curled upwards. "Don't be late." He was about to enter his own office when he heard a distinguished rattle. He turned around to see Kagome struggling with a bottle of pills, painkillers by the looks of it. She would no doubt spill it all over the floor the way she was going about it. He audibly sighed and walked over to where she sat and popped the bottle open with the flick of his wrist, and without a word, moved to leave.
"Thank you," she whispered softly. He said nothing and kept striding forth. 'Why did I help her?' Unknown to him Kagome was asking herself that very same thing. The question remained unanswered, by both Kagome and himself.
~
It was 8:30 before Sesshoumaru decided to head home for the day. He needed to start on an assignment given to him by on of his professors. He turned off the lights, but saw an illumination coming from the crevice underneath the door, connecting his office to Kagome's. 'She's not still *here*, is she?' He opened the door.
"Don't tell me you 'lost track of time' *again* Higurashi?" his voice goaded. She forced herself to bite her tongue to keep from verbally lashing him.
"I am very aware of the time, thank you Mr. Takamada," she said with her tone clipped. "As a matter of fact I was just about to leave." 'you jackass' She turned off the computer and grabbed her purse. Heading towards the door she called back. "Are you coming or do you just plan on standing their all night?" He opened his mouth to retort, but nothing came out. He was left to follow, trying to salvage what dignity he had left.
They walked through the building and out the entrance together and separated at the parking lot. Kagome journeyed down the sidewalk to her apartment and Sesshoumaru traveled to his sleek Jaguar.
"Goodnight Mr. Takamada." She said as they parted.
"Goodnight." He hadn't meant to reply. It had just slipped out. They were both surprised, yet kept on walking in their different directions, without so much as a glance back.
~
The rest of the week flew by for Kagome. She studied hard, avoided Sesshoumaru, and her friendships continued to grow.
"Hey Kagome, do you work tonight?" Sango asked before taking a bite of her Chinese food. They sat in a cute inexpensive restaurant, though Kagome still preferred the Raman café.
She wiped her mouth with her napkin before replying. "Nope, Inu Tashio gave me Friday's and Saturday's off. He says that a young person like me should be out having fun on the weekend, and not be cooped up in some office."
"Inu Tashio is such a nice guy." Kagome whole-heartedly agreed. Just then, Inuyasha and Miroku sat down next to them after having ordered their own food.
"Well what do you think about going to see a movie or something?" Sango suggested.
"Yeah, that new Jackie Chan movie is out I think," supplied Miroku.
"I've never been to a movie theater before." Her friends dropped their chop sticks and stared blatantly when Kagome spoke out loud..
"You've *never* been to a movie before?" Inuyasha asked, unsure if he had heard correctly. Kagome nodded her head
"You're all looking at me really *weird*. It's not *that* unheard of, *is it*?"
"Kagome, you have *officially* been living in a hole," Sango said taking another bite. 'I can't believe she has never even gone to see a *movie* before. What else hasn't she done,' Inuyasha thought to himself.
"So it's decided. We'll go see the Jackie Chan movie around seven or so," he confirmed, before digging into his own food.
-(At the movie)
"Wow, this is so, *wow*," Kagome stared with admiration at the movie theater. She inhaled deeply, savoring the smell of buttered popcorn and the sound of people's laughter. She looked to Inuyasha who was currently standing by her side. Miroku and Sango were busy getting popcorn and candy.
"Inuyasha," she spoke softly, "thank you *so* much." Her eyes glimmered with gratitude and uneasy with her intent gaze, he retorted roughly. "Don't thank me for anything. Seeing a movie is no big deal," He huffed, crossing his arms.
'It is to me Inuyasha, it is to me.'
-At Inuyasha's house later that night-
Inuyasha sat alone in front of the fire, watching the flames as they danced. Sesshoumaru walked in with a book in hand, prepared to spend the rest of his evening reading the tales of Edgar Allen Poe, when he saw Inuyasha. If he had noticed Sesshoumaru was even there he didn't say anything. Determined not to let the presence of his brother bother him, Sesshoumaru sat down, and opened his thick book to the page he had left off at.
"You know, she hadn't ever been to a movie before tonight." Inuyasha kept his eyes on the blazing fire. "What a *sheltered* life she must lead." Sesshoumaru was surprised at the unusual insight coming from his younger brother.
"I'm not so sure that sheltered is the right word for it," Sesshoumaru spoke quietly, "But you're correct. There is something peculiar about her." He said nothing about how he believed Kagome was hiding something from them. His brother would likely take it the wrong way, and get angry. For a long time they each remained quiet, lost in their thoughts and listening to the crackling of the fire.
"You know, I don't think she even knows how beautiful she is," Inuyasha said, remembering when she spoke of no one wanting her. 'How could she *not* know?' Sesshoumaru thought to himself.
Behind them he stood unnoticed, listening to the first conversation they ever shared without bickering. Inu Tashio smiled and left them to their thoughts.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Hello again! Sorry it has been so long. Free time seems to elude me, But as god as my witness, this will be up by next Saturday! ::shakes fist up at the sky:: ~I hope~. At least I tried to make this as long as I could. This chapter was more Inuyasha/Kagome, but next chapter there will be *tons* more Sess/Kag. I'm sending out a 911 to all you people out there who are reading this! I need a beta reader! If anyone is willing please e-mail me, okay? I need HELP!
Requirements: -creative -decent grammar -decent vocabulary
(
On a different not, I want to thank all of you that reviewed! I almost have 100 reviews! I feel so excited! And you know what, they have all been pretty positive! I ask all of you to remember that constructive criticism is just as appreciated as ::beams:: *compliments*. Thanks again! And keep reviewing! Oh and one more thing, what do you all think of the guide line thing? No one told me what they thought about it! So if no one tells me whether they like it or not I am taking it down!
Helpful Hints:
Kagome was never sexually assaulted by her father.
In case you didn't read the first a/n, Inuyasha *is* developing feeling for Kagome but it WILL be a Sesshoumaru/Kagome fic.
(Someone asked this question) Onigumo's last name is Higurashi too, he never changed it because that would have been looked at as disgraceful.
This IS a Sesshoumaru/Kagome fic! (I can't press that enough)
Kagome tucks her hair behind her ear when she's nervous.
IMPORTANT: Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha have basically NEVER had a conversation where there was no arguing. Kagome was the source of conversation.
That's all I can think of right now!
Reviews Responses:
Goddess-of-the-white-wing: Thank you! I hope I can keep it interesting. This is my favorite story I've written so far so I want to make it good.
LethiferousChatelaine: Cool name. I like that too! I am so sorry this was so late. I have been so busy, but it is my personal goal not to exceed over 2 weeks again. Please review again!
BloodRoseOTDemon: I'm glad you love it!
Blackiecat: You are so sweet! That's okay about chapter 4, I understand. It's really nice that you tried. Is there anything you think I should do with this story? Please review again.
Vampira, the damned: Ooooo I love the part about Shippo too! I think you're the only person to comment on it. Thank for reviewing. Question: Do you read books about vampires? Have you read anything written by Anne Rice? By the way, sorry about the late update. ::sheepish smile::
emelynoooopee: How did you come up with that name? It is so CUTE! Yes Onigumo's last name is Higurashi as well, basically because that to have changed his child's name would have been looked upon as disgraceful bye the other members of 'high society'. I hope that answers your question!
shanaka: Thanks!
Thundergirl: It's good to hear from you again!
Kaimi: I know! Sess/Kag is my FAVORITE pairing.
Stardreamer090: Hello again! Like I said in the first A/n in this chapter at the top this is a K/S, but Inuyasha develops feeling for Kagome. Tell when you get your xanga up! Wow if it was valentines week the last time I updated, that was like-forever ago. I have to work on that. But don't worry about the not having a valentine this year. Join the club, consisting of – ME!
ioke: I'm glad you like it!
Cold-Hearted NightFox. Thank you!
Dragon Rae: Sorry this took REALLY long to update.
Glass Thorn: What do you think about the 'guide line' thing?
The Couples Writer: Hey I noticed you call yourself The Couples Writer, but you don't' have anything written! Do you plan on writing something, or is it just a name you like?
myinuyasha04: Hey are *you* any good with grammar?
hyper person: I hope I can clear up a few things for you. 1 Naraku has a grudge against Kagome because if Kagome hadn't have been born, his wife wouldn't have died giving birth to her. Also she looks like her mother clone basically, and is except her character is stronger than her mothers, and she can stand up for herself. 2 Kagome was NOT sexually abused. Hey, but you should read my other story, Something Special.
InvisibleRain: I'm glad that I was able to answer your questions. Hey do you think that you might like to be my beta reader? You could tell me whether the chapter was cliché or not! I am really bad with that kind of thing, but I'm trying to work on it, and I'm glad that you liked the chapter anyways. One more thing, thank you so much for the constructive criticism. It is greatly appreciated.
faded-illusion: Koga will be showing up but that's all I'm going to say about him. Hee hee. I just didn't want to use the same name as everyone else for the bad guy you know? Kikyo will be showing up at school, I'm not so sure about hiten, but he is kinda cute! I think I'll try to put him somewhere.
Emerald Wolfzban: Very disturbing.
Chocolategummybearofdoom + tasina: Thank you both for reviewing, and you know if you send your demons after me it will only take LONGER for me to update, and I already need all the help I can get. Hey, I have a question for you! Why is it that for every chapter I update, you are able to review like a minute later?