Kagome sighed. She slipped easily back into her seat. Rin wasn't at Sesshoumaru's apartment or hers. They just finished checking Seikio Prep., Rin's school. She wasn't there either. Could she be in a pair of hands more dangerous than Naraku's? What was the point of her being there anyway? Naraku's plans sure were getting similar it seems and cliché to boot. Kidnap, ransom, and manipulation- that's really all there was to it.

Kagome frowned. Shouldn't she feel stressed right now? A little girl just not even eight yet was involved in a dark plot to send her step father into bankruptcy and sentenced to death by humiliation. It really wasn't fair to Sesshoumaru. He worked hard, probably too long hours and getting up too early sacrificing time with his daughter, to keep that company on the top. Naraku always wanted more and usually what he couldn't have he wanted more. He didn't know what it meant to earn anything. Naraku plans involved a lot of henchmen and less effort on his part beyond the forefront of brain power. In the back of her mind, Kagome bit back that old saying that 'life isn't fair.' Knowing it was all too true.

"Where is the safest place in the city, that's not your home?" Kagome wondered.

"My office building."

Sesshoumaru's voice was even and smooth. The same deep tone, as always, soothed over her frazzled nerves. Kagome was addicted and really she didn't mind so much. It made her stomach go for a triple flip and raised the tiny hairs on her arms.

Everything seemed clearer and in perspective. Before she'd been so afraid; she didn't want to be hurt again. Self-conscious to the point of being paranoid and belittling herself at every turn because it was always from Naraku's point of view that she saw herself, at least in the way he'd wanted her to see herself. Now she knew it was so Kagome wouldn't leave him. She had needed him because he completed, he could love all of her flaws and no one else would. He was brilliant in the art of manipulation, if not sick. Naraku knew the right things to say, what she wanted to hear, and how to persuade her, mold her into doing exactly what he desired. All the while, it was without Kagome's notice.

Kagome shifted in her seat to look at him. He stared straight ahead, but his eyes flickered over once. He noted the question in her eyes, but also the small smile on her lips. Something was definitely different about her and the change wasn't completely disagreeable. The air between them in the silence of the car, normally thick with tension or dry with boredom, was becoming comfortable. Kagome's emotions were level for once and the woman was at ease. The serenity she was feeling nearly tangible in the tight space of his sports car.

"That makes sense, but I wouldn't have thought of it. I would have gone to Sango's next; she's been there as well."

"True, but would an outsider be aware of that?"

"Possibly…"

Kagome realized the improbability of that, unless they were stalking or using surveillance. She sighed taking in the scent of his car. It smelled sweetly of him. There was an undertone of cinnamon like it was buried in the seats and clinging to every inch. It was his cologne, she knew, and Kagome secretly loved the raw spiciness of it. It was light, not overpowering. Kagome almost wanted it to be stronger so she could get a clear breath of it, but it was almost coy and the scent was usually just beyond her grasp. Kagome always felt stupid for breathing in really deeply just because she wanted more of it.

Right now though there was a heavier twinge of cotton blossom from 'bath and body works.' This was the hand lotion that she used, one of her favorite scents since cucumber melon made her sick. Kagome just put some on, but it paled in comparison to the scent Sesshoumaru wore. It saddened her a little, but oh well her hands were dry.

The highways were clear, it being a Sunday night and nearly eleven thirty. The road was dark. The headlights bouncing slightly with random drips or lifts in the pavement beneath the wheels. Kagome's window was still down. The night was warm as she turned sideways in her seat so that she could lay her head back against the door. Sesshoumaru had one arm resting on the ledge of his window, it was down also. His bangs ruffled every now and then with rebellious wisps of wind stealing in from the outside. The moon was half full and a yellowish tint. Kagome's eyes watched it come in and out of view as they moved onto, then around the exit ramp.

Sesshoumaru had decided not to go through inner city to reach his office building from the school. Traffic was always tight, no matter the time and time was of the essence. Kagome was glad he went this way. It was comforting even though it was making her slightly sleepy. The moonlight showed through the translucent clouds making it appear grey. Kagome had tied back her hair into a loose braid. She'd let it out earlier for dinner, but now, with the wind, it had only gotten annoying and tangled. This was one downside to long hair. Well, that and the fact that she had to be careful sleeping. If she slept on it, it was flat in the mornings and the ends wouldn't tuck under right. This was one reason she showered every morning and also why she left it flop over the edge of her bed or across the other, empty pillow.

The building they pulled up in front of was familiar as was the parking deck they drove into. Sesshoumaru went to his VIP spot right next to the side entrance of the building. There was a sign painted on the wall with his name on it in front of the spot. Kagome was a little jealous. All he had to do was walk like five feet to the door and slide his id to get it. Kagome, whenever she was sent over, had to peel around looking for any spot. Usually it was on the very top deck and she had to walk halfway across the area to an elevator. The garage was right next door to the company and for employees only.

The first level was for the higher ups for the most part. There was an elevator that took you down to the first floor which was littered with sports cars in mass wherever you looked. Then there was a short walkway to the door. Everyone had a company id. Kagome's, since she worked at Hama Corp., was different. It gained her access, but she had to go directly to the security guard to get a 'guest badge' after stating her business and how long she planned on staying. So the woman wondered how anyone would be able to get it. Nothing looked broken and no alarms were going off.

The lights were off and it was creepy walking in. It was gloomy and strange. Kagome was never here so late. It was always bright, formal, and busy as it should be. They didn't have to walk far. Past the front desk to a VIP/ CEO lounge. There were two tables set up near a small kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator, and a coffee maker. Beyond that were a couch, love seat, and a single chair all of the same set. A coffee table sat in between all the legs. In the center on the wall was a huge piece of modern art. It was plain and served as a break room. Some people went there for lunch.

"Why are we in here?"

"Because this is where she is."

"She?"

Kagome was confused and it was showing plain on her face. Sesshoumaru shot her a look and didn't say anymore. Maybe the person spent their lunch hour here? Kagome was grasping at straws and felt like she was on the outside instead of smack in the center where she actually was.

It was then that a person in white emerged from one dark corner. Her outfit was strikingly white and Kagome wanted to slap herself. How could she have not seen that? As Kanna moved a small bundle was around her feet. A cloaking shadow enveloped what it was, but Kagome recognized the shining eyes that peered around Kanna's legs.

"Kanna."

At the sound of the male's voice Rin sprinted into the moonlight pouring in from the shaded window and hurled herself at Sesshoumaru. Her tiny arms hooked around his thighs, one just below one knee. Her face buried into the side of pant leg. Her hands gripped the fabric. A large hand dropped onto her head and Rin looked up immediately smiling when her eyes met her father's. Those shining eyes had been apprehensible when she first gazed up at them were now sparkling with contented joy. Kagome had to wonder if his voice affected Rin similarly to herself. Kagome grinned lightly at their reunion, but it was shortly lasted. Now her attention was focused back on Rin's savior.

However, Kagome was confused. Kanna was working for Naraku. Then she helps Rin escape and gives her back to Sesshoumaru. Now she's just leaving. Kagome sends an anxious look to Sesshoumaru only to find him watching her. Kanna knew it too for she spoke cutting the stillness. The eerie woman said little, but it put everything into perspective.

"I'm working with the police, undercover. My partner, Hiten, is one of many bribed into following Naraku's orders."

"So you were to smoke them all out."

Kanna nodded at Kagome's conclusion then brushed past them towards the exit. She left the trio with a warning.

"Naraku plans to buy out your company during the stock exchange."

The door to the room was left open in expectance of their departure. Rin finally comforted and her usual self again just by being in Sesshoumaru's presence. It seemed she'd had enough of her father's legs and was now easily moving over to inspect his companion. Rin's eyes widened when she got close enough to fully recognize Kagome's features that were staring back at her. Before the woman could even register the movement, Rin was also hugging her legs. Kagome gently removed Rin's hands and squatted down, one knee resting on the ground, to encase the child within her arms.

Rin's face turned into her shoulder and Kagome smiled at her sigh. It was like she was holding her breath waiting to see how Kagome would react to her hugging ritual. Rin always did hug knees first unlike Shippou who went for the shoulders and toppled Kagome more than a few times with his zesty approach. Kagome was going to let go after a minute, but Rin slipped her arms around her neck. Kagome tilted her chin to look at the crown of Rin's ebony head. With a smile she relented at the unasked question and lifted Rin into her arms so that she was resting just above one hip.

Sesshoumaru watched the interaction with interest. Rin was social, but she never really became attached to things because with her history, no doubt, she'd lose them quicker than you could say 'wait.' Sesshoumaru noted his daughter's easy countenance and closed eyes. Rin was asleep in a matter of seconds, a feat in itself. The child was offering out her heart to Kagome and as Kagome stood the woman had unknowingly accepted the trust with open arms, literally. As Sesshoumaru watched her turn towards him he changed his mind. Perhaps Kagome did know. Kagome smiled softly smoothing down Rin's hair with one hand. The other was wrapped under the child's bottom holding her in place.

Kagome's eye danced. The blue was soft again, but warm. Sesshoumaru felt their depths speak out, reach out to him in a way words never could. A soft strand of hair fell over one shoulder and before Kagome moved, Sesshoumaru tucked the curl back behind her ear. His fingers ran down the length partway as he stared into her eyes. His gaze was intense and heated. Kagome blushed when Sesshoumaru ran two fingers of that same hand along the curve of her jaw.

His skin was cool against her and a little rough all the same. It was so masculine. Kagome felt her knees weaken slightly, her mouth opening in a silent gasp. She didn't lose her balance however even with Rin's added weight. Those golden suns burned so brightly, even in the shadow of the break room. Their normal honey color had darkened again and swirled with a curiosity Kagome didn't understand. It was curiosity. After weeks, months of knowing him this was something she rarely saw in his eyes, but could never miss. His hand dropped from the tip of her chin and Kagome found her missing its tepidity.

There was a terse pause. Kagome waited in apprehension. Would he kiss her? Nervousness was riled within her and she felt her hands shake with the piling adrenaline in her system. His eyes averted, traveling over her face. After a minute of nothing, and a deep breath, Kagome's eyes drooped finding herself sleepy all of a sudden. The exertion tolling on her plus the late hour was a lot to handle.

Kagome did stay up late some nights, but usually she drank tea then went to bed, only to lie there thinking and staring up through the windows in her room. Kagome especially loved to do this when it was raining. She would listen to the soft pitter patter and let it lull her into sweet dreams.

Her head fell forward. Sesshoumaru was so close to her then that her forehead hit his chest. Lids heavy with long lashes fell shut. Golden eyes had long lost their hungering curiosity and watched her closely. Kagome was worn out, that was easy to see. Even before she picked up Rin, when they were walking in, Kagome had yawned several times and just now she'd almost lost her balance. It might have been his touch, but this was an egotistical thought to which he smirked.

Sesshoumaru wondered about her often it would seem. She so easily accepted people, despite their flaws and any past they could for the person they were now. She'd befriend an ex-convict Sesshoumaru would guess, if he was a betting man. Maybe it was her past that caused this, but she cared about anyone and everyone. It was astounding that someone so selfless could exist in such a society. Perhaps it was this thought that made Sesshoumaru wrap his arm around her small waist. Or maybe it was the fact that Sesshoumaru knew this was one of the reasons she was always getting hurt. Protective instincts he didn't even know he had sprung to life and both arms, mindful of Rin, pulled them both in closer.

Kagome stiffened, but the strength Sesshoumaru carried himself with made her pause. Sesshoumaru was different that anyone she'd ever met. Yura was right about that. He wasn't the warmest and didn't show his care openly, but he did care. He did feel and for some unknown reason Sesshoumaru was showing her, in his own way, right now. It was through actions.

Sometimes words weren't enough. Kagome turned in towards him moving one arm under his and lay between his shoulder blades. Sesshoumaru dipped his head down burying his nose into her scented hair. The cotton blossom lotion still prevalent had risen to encompass her form in a tantalizing odor. He liked it. It wasn't too thick or sweet that it made him gag. Rin was nestled between so easily, it was like she belonged there.

In the dark, the truth can't always be seen, but it can be felt, it can be known. Kagome could hear his steady heartbeat against her cheek. She gave one more squeeze and stepped back. Sesshoumaru peered down at her and Kagome gulped. The sound loud in her ears and she was aware that her heart wasn't beating rapidly. Her face wasn't hot, so there wasn't a bright blush staining her cheeks either. Her eyes narrowed with not contempt or suspicion, but tenderness.

Kagome slipped her hand into his, which surprised him a little. Sesshoumaru raised an eyebrow at her making her chuckle peacefully. He gave a light tug and Kagome allowed herself to be led out of the room. Their hands swung modestly between them as they walked. The night had been long, but the aftermath was blissful. Kagome was introduced to the world once again and it wasn't the place she escaped to in her fear or grief, but the reality she was born into. It was ominous and maybe a little overwhelming, but the pleasant weight in her arms reminded her that she wasn't alone to bear it. Maybe, just maybe, this go round would be different.

As the moon began to descend in the sky following the Earth's rotation, Kagome paused in her movement. Sapphire eyes twinkled in reverence of the beauty she witnessed above her. When she was young, she dreamed that her father was watching her from above. That one of the bright, sparkling stars was her beloved father's smile beaming down protecting her, reminding her of better days. Sometimes Kagome had yearned to be with him, praying with all her might that she would be given a symbol that he really was looking out for her. Nothing had ever happened, even though she waited for it. As Kagome stood on the pathway, just before entering the parking garage, a star burned brighter before shooting in a gradual arc across the sky.

Sesshoumaru, who had stopped as well since their hands were still clasped, lifted his eyes just in time to see it. When he looked at her, his lips quirked in amusement. Her eyes were shut tight and her mouth moved forming silent words.

Suddenly, he was met with cobalt eyes once again and she lurched forward pulling him along. Sesshoumaru followed without resistance, quite unlike him to allow this girl to drag him. Then again when he was around her this was becoming more common and Sesshoumaru found himself not minding. It was strange. Kagome made things more complicated. She was stubborn, talked a lot and loudly, overemotional, and really just a distraction. Kagome was also a distraction he was beginning to crave and Sesshoumaru, for once, wasn't sure whether this was a good or a bad thing. He sighed.

"What were you doing?" he asked as he opened the car door for her.

Kagome giggled, "Making a wish of course."

Sesshoumaru raised an eyebrow resisting the urge to roll his eyes as well. This had indeed been a long and troubling night, but all had ended in his favor. Who knew what surprises tomorrow would hold for him and this crazy woman who he could never seem to avoid.

…You know I realized that this kind of sounds like a possible ending for my story. However, there is still a lot more to do before I can conclude. There has been some confusion about the end. There may be a sequel. Honestly I haven't thought about it. Until next time, many thanks to my betas Wolf Jade and Tsuki Yume as well as all my lovely reviewers …