So heads-up. The next couple of chapters are going to be told in snippets. So long chapters aren't going to happen but more updates in the week will. Also, for my own sick humor state your pairing preferences. I just want to see who stands where...I

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emmydebby123 – Thank you love for your review. This is going to be a slow burn so they are building their relationships. I'm glad you enjoy Rin's relationship with Kagome as well as Izayoi and Inutashio. Hope you enjoy this next chapter!

kagomeLove2 – You never know. She can do a lot these days with the technology that's available…and this chapter will answer some of your thoughts.

Delite – Me too! And more is here!

SkittlesKitty – I know. Like when I first started writing it I wanted one pair…then I wrote it and thought "oh this would be better if it was this pair." But I love both pairings. I feel like either couple is good and brings something unique to it. Enjoy this chapter love!

NarukoSon – (1) Thank you! I'm trying to keep secrets here until I can figure out who will be with who! But it's kind of hard. (2) Shippo and Shiori will come a little later. No worries. It's already written out. lol

Danielle596 – Yeah true. But this chapter will expand more on Kimi's place among the pack. Hope your twins are well! xoxoxoxo

Violets sparkle – I don't' know….Maybe more Sess/Kag will be coming….. hehehehe

Nyght elf – Nope I don't. It started off one way but then another scene came up and I thought the characters should switch. There are def more relationship options I want to discover in this fic so I can't wait for that!

Youkai55 – Yeah and apparently he didn't like it! And we will see what Inuyasha will do soon enough. Maybe in this chapter?

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Chapter 19: Breakfast with Kimi

"That is just too rich!" Inukimi said as she laughed while leaning back in her plush black chair. Her golden eyes were glowing with the morning sun filtering in through the large glass windows of her office at the Vogue Paris headquarters. She did get Izayoi's messages and was told about what had occurred at her home during Kikyo's visit but to hear all of it in its complete entirety was priceless. She couldn't fathom having a small human miko riling her up to behave so foolishly the way that Kaguya had. She supposes it definitely showed the difference in class, clan, upbringing, and age. She looked at Kikyo and shook her head with a wide smile now glued onto her face. Her short silver hair stayed in perfect layers around her head despite her movements. Kikyo told her the words she had with her son and explained without flinching or showing any signs of discomfort why she did so. It was positively fascinating. Seeing Kikyo again was like a breath of fresh air and reminded her of the few conversations they shared which were actually mentally sustaining. Had she not known Kikyo was a miko, she would have thought the woman a demoness as she certainly had the makings to be one. Inukimi's laughter died a bit before she spoke again in her gentle tone. "You've been gone for years, Lady Kikyo. Then you show up and life gets interesting again."

Kikyo sat still looking upon Inukimi with indifference trying her best to keep her emotions in place. The older demoness was known for her flourish attitude, grandeur expectations, and inappropriate sense of humor. Back in the day when her art had pushed her to the front of high society, Lady Inukimi had invited her to several of her exclusive events. Lady Inukimi moved about her events gracefully speaking with those that inspired her and the social scene took notice. At one event she attended, Alexander Wang was introduced to the demoness and the next day his clothes were praised to high heaven despite the young designer having the line out for several months prior to the event. Lady Inukimi had that sort of power on the creative world and others in general.

Kikyo sat forward clutching her purse and portfolio in her hands, seating them on her lap. She saw this as another test to measure her confidence and readiness to go back into the social world again without the aid of alcohol. Already it was proving to be a challenge. She knew Inukimi would question her past without holding back. She would be a liar if she said she wasn't afraid. Inukimi could destroy her without hesitation and then everything would be for nothing. Using her extensive miko training skill set, she controlled her aura and the scent of her emotions because Inus had very sensitive noses. She knew Inukimi would taste a lie before it even left her tongue. Kikyo sat tall feigning entertained. "I'm glad to hear my absence has been felt by so many and so deeply as well." She expressed.

Inukimi's smile grew a bit wider showing a bit of sharp fang. "So I have heard. Although how you are just roaming this city of Paris without the world hounding you is a mystery." She looked over the many items on her desk to stare into the soul of Kikyo. She watched the woman give nothing more than she wanted away. "Unless…no one knows you're here."

Kikyo tilted her head slightly confirming her suspicions. "More or less." She responded coolly.

Inukimi leaned back in her chair to look at the thin woman seated in designer Balmain that she recognized immediately. She noticed the weight loss, the darker shades of her eye color, and the way Kikyo moved with gentle and small movements. Gone were the joys and high hopes for humanity in her eyes that she had seen on many men and women before her. Maybe in her suffering she had finally seen how cruel humans and demons could be when one was down. But she still sat before her with the confidence and the subtle arrogance as before unlike the priestesses before her. Kikyo was different from other devoted mikos. She was ambitious. A trait she rather enjoyed in women of all kind. Her sense of fashion was impeccable as always. She had heard through the grapevine that Kikyo had reappeared and was selling her art that was expressed by critics as revolutionary and soul touching. Yet, the woman did not come out herself and announce her arrival back onto the scene. She was behaving like a panther, lurking in the shadows and sizing up her pray before striking. "I see." Inukimi turned her chair to the side in thought before speaking again. "You do know word is going to circulate that you have been seen at this office unless I step in to hide this meeting."

Kikyo nodded not caring if anyone knew or not anymore. She had nothing else to lose having lost it all before. Besides, she was working on herself now. She couldn't afford to be side tracked. "Do as you please."

The demoness eyed her intensely this time with claws extending at the possibilities. Kikyo did not falter in tone, words, or sentence. She spoke clear and concise, getting to the point with very little extra commentary. She needed this for her company. "Good. Then of course you know they will ask for interviews and the questions regarding your past and your alcoholism will be interrogated. How will you handle those moments?" She set her hand on her desk and her sharp nails tapped the surface.

Kikyo clutched her portfolio in her lap. "I won't." She responded quickly. "If the world wants to know so badly then they can continue to do what they have been doing this whole time. Dig through my trash and accept the crumbs I give. I owe nothing to anyone." She said haughtily speaking with truth on her tongue. A dark tone laced through the syllables of her words.

Inukimi nodded at this in approval. "Acceptable. But, if you work for me, you must show loyalty to my name and the Tashio honor."

Kikyo glared at her when the words left her lips. "Well I think we must end this conversation here. I respect very few these days and there is one demoness that may be taking the name of Tashio that I'm particularly opposed to." Kikyo stated boldly now clutching her things with a grip that was noticeable. Her hands slightly shook with the desire to reach in her bag for a cigarette knowing her words may have touched a nerve of the infamous fashion mogul that could destroy anything left of her. But she didn't care. She may not have anything but she had some dignity and respect for herself and her family left. And that demoness crossed a line when she messed with her family's livelihood more so Rin's than Kagome's. "If Kaguya ever comes near me, my family, or does something malicious again, I'll end her regardless of what last name she carries. The same goes for your son."

Inukimi's eyes turned the slits that contradicted the smile on her face. She waved her hand in the air as if blowing away her threat nonchalantly. Inukimi was impressed at her audacity. The woman may have been a drunk but she had a very strong moral code when it came to her own family. "When it comes to my son, we may be at odds and it may get a little bloody on that day. But I do not care for this Kaguya person." She asked with her eyebrows drawn together slightly as if she tasted something foul in her mouth. "You say her name like I know her or as if she carries meaning in my life. Kikyo, you should know me better than that. I'm slightly disappointed."

Kikyo blinked a little taken back by her commentary. "Kaguya is engaged to your son." She explained while debating on how much she should tell Inukimi of the words her son said. "I suspect your son is marrying her for duty but he has shown signs that he is greatly displeased with her. I will just say this to put the idea out there but, I think your son has gotten himself into something he may not be able to get out of so easily. Kaguya is manip-"

Inukimi's lips went into a thin line and she cut her short with a sharp bark. "I am aware of this!" She snapped. Her demonic energy spiked before calming again. Inukimi sighed bringing her temper in check having not remembered when she had done so in quite some time. But this is why she adored Kikyo. Others would run away and cower whereas Kikyo would sit unmoving, flaring her aura warningly. "I may not talk to my son as often but when we do speak I can tell things about my son that only a mother can. I have my sources watch my son and on my desk somewhere is Kaguya's impressive pedigree that I'm sure was the only reason my son gave her a glance in the first place. Yes, I admit I approved of the match instantly when I glimpsed at it but after hearing of her obtuse behavior from several sources, I am no longer in agreement nor do I care what happens to her." She explained superciliously speaking in low tones having calmed. "I heard she tries to imitate me but this is far from flattery and I'm glad she got told off by your sister. I personally, don't know the demoness and have not spent time with her. Besides, Kaguya is far too beneath me to notice as I have in my face more important intelligent renaissance fellows like Givenchy and Donatella as well as clan politics, properties, and a company to manage." She spoke throwing her right hand about in the air. "Also, my son can handle himself. His ego may be a problem that I will have to deal with directly but he will persevere on his own." She avowed with her golden eyes glowing seemingly with the sun. "Now, how did you get all of this information about my son is another question and I believe you aren't telling me your whole conversation with my son."

Kikyo remained stoic while doing her best to hide her anxiety. The taste of tobacco was calling to her now. Her hackles had now been shaken and she seriously doubted she was able to do this. She wanted a drink. No, she didn't want a drink. She needed one after this. "I told you what you needed to know." She stated saying nothing more and nothing less. It was the truth yet it also hid the lot that had been unsaid. Kikyo looked out the window at the morning sun ready to call her powers forward to defend herself.

Inukimi nodded with a grin. "Of course you did. I expect nothing less of you."

Kikyo snapped her head to Inukimi with eyes wide having her own words that she spoke to Sesshomaru thrown back at her. "What?"

Inukimi shrugged. "It is true." She enjoyed the conversation and the dance of words tremendously. It was a delicious brunch indeed with the miko and they weren't even breaking bread. She looked Kikyo over with a calculative expression thinking of many ways to utilize the young miko. Inukimi couldn't be everywhere at once and she trusted very little people. Kikyo had always been very blunt to precise with her words. And truth always covered the girl with a warm blanket. After hearing of Kikyo's involvement with the Tashio's she knew she had to get her for her own.

Inukimi never cared for humans except those that were forward thinking. Izayoi was one of those beloved people. Rage sunk into her skin to find that Izayoi felt unsafe in her own home. Her friend who adopted Sesshomaru like one of her own did not have to suffer in her own house. It was insulting. But then she found out Kikyo was there and she knew Izayoi was safe in the miko's powerful hands. It was no secret she had the power that hadn't been seen since the peak careers of the legendary priestesses and the magically influenced Midoriko, Marie Laveau and Merlin. She wasn't sure as to the specifics as to why Kikyo spiraled out of control but it brought the powerful human here to her doorstep. Now she would need to do a little digging herself to make sure Kikyo didn't stray like so many other humans tended to do.

Kikyo licked her lips and leaned forward. She was ready to leave having had enough for one morning. So many thoughts and emotions poured through her that she was finding it hard to control her growing anxiety. She took a deep breath reminding herself of the steps to calm her nerves. She wasn't about wasting the little precious time she had on chasing a possibility that wasn't exactly going too well. She would remember to find a way to thank Shiori for the thought though. "Look, about this position-"

Inukimi waved her hand and stood up suddenly going to the corner where a packet of papers sat. "Miko, the job was yours the minute I found out it was you applying." She walked over and handed her the packet before taking her seat again. "Your style and mannerisms is what this company needs as well as that backbone. You will need training which I can manage considering I have more than a position to offer you. As you know Shiori will be heading this branch but she can be too soft at times. Designers will cater to her gentle nature and I don't want that to happen. I need you to stand as her firm supporter and a strong fist to shut down those that try to weasel in her good graces. When I come into my office, everyone scatters because they know I do not expect anything less than perfection. I want the same for my Shiori and Vogue Paris. These people may not scatter when she walks in, but they will nose dive when you walk at her side. But the final question to this rather unorthodox interview is, are you sober for such a task?" She asked getting to the point watching Kikyo flip through the packet. "I run a billion dollar company miko. I do not handle mistakes of any kind…with sympathy or slaps on the wrist. I will gut and gauge everyone if my name is remotely tied to unsatisfactory and mediocre results." She coldly explained flexing her claws warningly. "Regardless of your morbid past, you will get no sympathy from me."

Kikyo's fingers stilled and her eyes rose up from searching the paperwork. She inhaled deeply and tilted her head higher placing the packet on top of the things on her lap. "Lady Inukimi, I still have my own problems to work through but I can assure you alcohol is no longer one of them as I have gotten over my grief. I'm not going to bullshit you and tell you what I think you want to hear. I didn't come here to waste time." She spoke bravely staring at the demoness straight in the eyes. "And I certainly don't want your sympathy." She stated vulgarly.

Inukimi smiled lacing her fingers together with a humorous smirk very pleased with the morning. "Good because I have none to give these days. You start now on the clock. You are to shadow me and leave me when I ask. Of course, Shiori will get the job as chief editor so I need you also to learn aspects of her job should she need guidance and I'm not physically around. If she thought people were jealous before, they will be extremely brutal now. Competitors will stop at nothing to ruin her. You will be her support system. In exchange, you will have exceptional pay and benefits, flexible office hours, and exclusive invitations to anything and everything. Also, keep your eyes focused on my family especially this Kaguya person until I can figure out what to do with her. You can keep the secrets that you hide to protect my son. This pleases me and speaks of your morals miko. But report to me anything of interest. Do this and you will have my personal support in every aspect and desire you have starting with this art party that has captured everyone's imagination." Inukimi pulled out a previously signed check and handed it over across her desk. She sat it in front of Kikyo and watched as the woman read the numbers written in ink signed on the gold parchment with the crescent moon insignia. "Take this as appreciation for your services and a signing bonus. I will talk to Izayoi about this party of yours and sponsor the whole event free of charge." Inukimi looked at her nails nonchalantly. "Besides, I can't have any party attached to my name poorly executed."

Kikyo sat still flabbergasted looking at the check taking note of all the zeros and the delicate signature of Inukimi's hand writing. She picked it up with shaky hands practically suffocating from the lack of oxygen she could draw in. In her hand was enough money to get the shrine out of debt and at least fight to keep it in their name and out of the hands of the city. She also had enough to put towards Souta's university debt. "Really?" She whispered unable to hide how much she needed this. Her thoughts were spinning and she wasn't sold on the idea of taking this position conserving the amount of pressure she was going under. Basically, Inukimi wanted her as a spy and as a low key vice president. She enjoyed her newly formed friendships. She didn't want to snoop or do anything to destroy the new life that was slowly stitching together. Kikyo quickly formed a plan and shook with desire to get on the phone and make a call.

Inukimi wrote a note on her desk and stuck it in her desk drawer for a later time. "Of course dear! This is nothing. Besides Izayoi, you have always been my favorite human."

Kikyo placed the check down in her purse and gripped a pen resting on the table to sign the contract. "That's because you choose not to really know any." She snickered.

"Exactly! You should be thankful that you're sitting as close to me as you are now. Even that flamboyant human Micheal Kor sits a good ten feet away from me in my office in New York. I can only stand so many humans at one time." Inukimi walked over to the far corner and pressed a button on the intercom and phone machine she had on the wall. "Girl!" She called rather rudely. "Show my guest her new office in the east wing suite. And I will be out of the office for the rest of the day."

Kikyo shook her head and held it for a minute in her hands. Biting the smile on her lips, she read over the fine print. After seeing everything was up to her standards, she signed with a rapidly beating heart. She would do this job with dignity but she would not become a slave to no one just for a few bags of coins. Besides, it didn't hurt her any. She knew Kaguya couldn't be trusted and she also knew Sesshomaru would go through any means to have his way. She would be the silent protector of her family rather Kagome knew it or not. Rin was top priority and she would do this for her. Also, she loved her art. She also wanted to have ample time to paint. She would find a way to work this into her schedule even if she had to turn her office into a paint studio as well.

Inukimi watched her hand move across the page with mirth shining among the sunlight filtering in through her windows. "We will keep your identity under wraps until your party. I want everything revealed on that day." She stated writing another note to fire anyone that is found speaking about Kikyo's presence in the building. A woman with blonde hair and a black chic outfit came in. Inukimi recognized her as a secretary but she never remembered the girl. "Come darling, go into your new office and settle in. I will write a few things for you to do today but I will be leaving for a meeting. Once you are finished, you may leave." She said waving the miko off.

Kikyo stood up slowly not liking to be told what to do and dismissed. Inukimi smirked understanding her actions loud and clear. Yes, there was potential for this new Kikyo. But she needed to make sure Kikyo was an asset and not a liability. She stood up from her desk and reached for her purse. "I do think this will be a rather interesting collaboration." She called out watching Kikyo throw her a backwards wave before exiting the office and following after the skittish blonde woman. "Do what you want with the office, I don't care. Prepare yourself, Kikyo and Shiori-love. We are about to turn many heads and maybe cut off a few others in the process." She grabbed her shades and placed them on her face. She needed to make a few stops. She would see to her family's well-being and pay this Kaguya person a visit to form an opinion of her own.

Kikyo's couldn't quite focus her hands were shaking so much. The woman at her side showing her the way quickly reached for her papers and portfolio to help her carry them without being told to which was rather shocking. Kikyo used this time to pull out her phone. She knew somehow Inukimi was going to get involved. She did respect the demoness but she knew the Inu tempers of the men in the clan from the peace summits. It would not go over well if Sesshomaru found out she was helping his mother get into his business behind his back. She needed to talk to a friend who could pass the message along to Sesshomaru. She needed Inuyasha. Her fingers mashed her screen furiously.

'I need to talk to you ASAP. It is about your Alpha Lady Inukimi.'

"Rin…" Kagome called out peeking her way through the thick fog of sleep that captured her. Hand reached to the side to feel her daughter's warm tresses of hair. Her heart stuttered when she felt only the cool texture of soft sheets at her fingertips. She moved her hand frantically around before panic consumed her and her eyes opened wide in fright. She felt the yellow cardigan but no Rin. Her aura spiked dangerously and she focused on the connection she had with her baby girl. She looked down at the bed noticing it wasn't hers and she sat up hurriedly looking around the room for her daughter until she calmed. Her hand came to rest on her quickly rising chest to calm herself. Sitting in a chair in the corner of the room was a half-naked Inuyasha holding her sleeping Rin in his arms. His red pants hung to his legs and his chest was bare. One arm was wrapped around Rin who slept tucked in one strong arm while holding tightly onto his forelocks of hair for support. One pudgy leg shook as she dreamt wildly clearly chasing something. At his side sat a sippy cup and mug on the floor.

Kagome blushed seeing him like this in the fresh morning rays so relaxed and calm as if this was normal for them. His muscles and the contours of his body were prominent. He was lean with narrow hips. If someone came in they would suspect something given the way they were at the moment. Kagome took a somewhat awake look at his handsome features and the sharp angle of his jaw. He had done so much for her…this wonderful amazing demon with silver hair and bright eyes.

Inuyasha opened his eyes having felt a surge of spiritual energy against his instincts warning him of the danger. He cracked them open just wide enough to see two brown eyes look at him before falling back down. "Hey" He greeted in a raspy voice taking note of the sunlight pouring in the window through the drawn curtains.

"Hey." Kagome whispered laying back down on the soft mattress. Her body felt exhausted and even just flaring her energy was tiring. She looked at her daughter and smiled to see her so relaxed and in complete control of her hanyou friend. "So how did you two get like this?"

Inuyasha moved but Rin was having none of it. He winced at the harsh pull of his hair from his scalp. Her nose tilted up and buried in the hair that fell over his left shoulder. Her hands gripped his hair even harder refusing to let go. "She scared the shit out of me." He muttered moving his hands up to loosen Rin's grip on his hair. "I went to get something to drink and I turned around and she was there yelping for me to give her my water. She was still sleepy so I got her own cup and brought her back here. Long story short, she wouldn't let go."

Kagome smiled in understanding. Sleep was still fighting to claim her soul. Her eyes sank back down heavily. "Thank you." She muttered resting her head deeper into her soft pillow.

"No worries Kags. Go back to sleep. It's still early." He reassured stretching his legs out and slouching some so he could get comfortable again while avoiding his hair being ripped out because of Rin's grip.

Kagome barely heard the rest of his sentence. She didn't need to be told twice. Rin was safe in the arms of one of her heroes. She would not waste this opportunity. She would get all the sleep she could, at least for a little while longer.

Kagome was very happy but a little embarrassed. She had woken up to find a white maxi dress on the bed and a stack of fresh towels. She cringed to see that sometime in the night she had took off her pants and chef's jacket. She remembered Inuyasha was there and the thought that someone else might have seen her in such a state was mortifying. Then that went into thoughts about Inuyasha and what he might have thought of her which was absurd. She found a bathroom with a shower and washed up the best she could before going on her way to find Rin and the Inu family. Her hair was pulled up on her head in a loose bun. The dress covered everything yet she felt oddly weird in the feminine dress having not worn something like it in such a long time. She could feel several powerful auras walking about the large castle which was odd sense she was so use to waking up and feeling just Rin's little one.

She walked down the hallway following after her daughter's aura and feeling her warm happy emotions flood her. Clearly, her daughter was having the time of her life somewhere downstairs. She came closer and the smell of eggs, meats, pastries, and other things filled her nose. Her stomach rumbled and she realized in her haste to collect her daughter last night, she hadn't eaten anything. She lifted the side of the long white maxi dress trying to not dirty the bottom of it. She felt refreshed and ready to take on another day at the restaurant. She could hear voices and the sounds of several things happening at once. The scent of food had gotten stronger that called her name. Kagome walked into the large space seeing the kitchen full of activity.

Izayoi was dressed in an elegant long pink kaftan with her black hair swept up into a high ponytail on the top of her head. She was making a very large breakfast with Inuyasha still dressed in his night time attire just stealing bacon when she wasn't looking. His red sweat pants hung low on his hips and Izayoi reached over to pull them up causing him to mutter at her in disagreement. Inutashio sat at the table dressed in khakis and a button up white shirt. His newspaper was laid down on the table abandoned as he was making fun at his eldest about how domesticated he looked with Rin held tightly in his arms. Sesshomaru wore a black shirt and black sweat pants, holding Rin in one arm while getting the breakfast tea started with other on the table. Rin was still dressed in her nighty clutched tightly to his black sleeping shirt with one hand while the other was holding her drinking cup to her mouth.

Kagome watched the scene before her at the wide open luxury kitchen bathed in sunlight and granite countertops. This is what Rin should have. She looked at how happy Rin was being treated like a princess and now passed to Inutashio who seemed to adore the little girl. Rin happily went to him and sat in his lap. Her attention was drawn to the newspaper on the table. Her free hand came up to play with the paper while Inutashio just spoke and held her protectively in his lap. This is what Rin deserved. A big family. It made her think of the ones she lost and the ones she had that seemed to be equally lost to her. Guilt filled her at being reminded of dodging her sister's calls. Granted her sister did the same to her whenever she was…sick. But now she was doing it and she didn't want to stop. She wanted this…she wanted this with her own family. But she knew she may have screwed that up a long time ago when she left Japan.

"Kagome dear! Don't you look beautiful!"

Kagome blinked a few times before walking into the kitchen. "Good Morning and Thank you!" she called out to the group of four. Immediately her daughter began climbing all over Inutashio to get to her mom. Kagome smiled and thanked him before reaching for Rin and kissing her good morning. Kagome sat the table with Inutashio who nodded in greeting to her. His aura washed over her protectively showing that she was greatly accepted in his home. He looked at his sons with a humorous expression noting their looks towards the miko's appearance which she felt Izayoi did on purpose. She picked out a maxi dress that hugged her waistline and clung to her chest revealing how very feminine Kagome was despite her body being covered all the time by her uniform. The woman was strong and stunning to say the least.

Izayoi placed another strip of bacon in the pan before walking over to Kagome and air kissing her on the cheek. "Good Morning to you too dear." She responded before walking back to the stove. "I'm making a more American style breakfast. We will have eggs, bacon, pancakes, pastries, sausage, croissants, cheese, and fruit. Can one of you dears get Kagome something to drink?" She dictated more than asked watching her food cook.

"Don't worry about me. I can get it." She said lifting Rin up in her arms and making to stand when she felt someone's strong hand rest on her shoulder. A strong pressure pushed her back down into her seat and she turned her head.

"Rest miko." Sesshomaru spoke before going back to performing his task. He watched her safely sit back down and her energy calmed. His hand felt warm having brushed her skin so intimately and this of course brought him back to his previous thoughts last night.

Kagome stilled seeing Sesshomaru up close dressed so casually. It just wasn't fair. All the Tashio men could wake up from the grave and look as if they just walked off a photo shoot. She opened her mouth to say something to him when a glass of orange juice slid in front of her. She looked up to see Inuyasha shoving another piece of bacon in his mouth with his ears twitching as his mother continued on a rant she was on before. Kagome reached for the glass shakily with her heart in her mouth just about. "Thanks, Yash and Sess." She whispered causing both men to still at the nickname.

Both men looked away as if her appraisal was nothing. Inutashio raised his paper somewhat and peeked over the top to chuckle a bit at his son's behavior. He decided not say anything to his sons after all. He had a front row seat to watch how his oldest responded to a ripe female and a pup that smelt of their combined scents but was unclaimed by any male. It was interesting to see Sesshomaru step into the role of Alpha and hold the pup. It was even more intriguing watching his youngest son become somewhat frazzled by the woman and pup as well. This confirmed his suspicions about his oldest that he was Apexing. It also explained why his son was engaged to the demoness yet wasn't close to her like a true Inu that chose his mate or even one he wanted to mother his child. Back in the day, even he was affectionate to Kimi and still at times was when she sought his affection.

Kimi had approached him with a desire to have his child yet remain unmated so she could fulfill her duty to the Inu Clan and still keep her status as a single ruling party. She was arrogant and ambitious but even she had a heart. He was like his son and close to Apexing so he fulfilled her desires finding mutual gain but in abundance. He was given his first pup above all which was the greatest gift ever in his life. He desire to have a mate was placated when Sesshomaru was born. Kimi's status was unchallenged and she even elevated due to her child being of royal blood and born within a sealed contract. He treated Kimi as close to a mate as one could get without marking them and she did the same. As Sesshomaru grew, Kimi went to rule her own people. Then came along Izayoi that smelt of everything his soul craved. He had found his life mate and took her as such.

It was rough at first to say the least. Kimi did not have the best attitude for humans and she really didn't care who knew it. She challenged Izayoi several times and each time Izayoi shocked everyone by rising to the challenge and proving her devotion to him and their family. Somehow she did it without disrespecting Kimi in the process. The two over time formed an amicable sisterhood with Sesshomaru's interest as the focus point. Then Izayoi gave birth to Inuyasha and then to Shiori which Kimi was present for. Kimi was there in the castle often seeing to the new pups and doing maternal activities with Izayoi to make sure their pack was healthy. Izayoi and Kimi never put one pup over the other which greatly pleased him. Kimi even stayed to protect her when France went into its revolution and secured their pack. Loyalty and trust was their bond that he knew even he couldn't break. These two females gave him the greatest gifts any man could have besides their love. His pups. Nothing could replace his pups even when they annoyed him which they often did. And even to this day, Kimi wasn't very far. She always seemed to show up at the right time. It did sadden him that she refused to take a mate. But this was the path Kimi chose. But he suspected there was someone out there for Kimi.

Inutashio looked back at his sons. How he wished this young woman was a mate to one of them. Unlike Kaguya, he enjoyed her sleeping in their family's den with her pup. He would put money on Inuyasha to claim the woman but then again he could see Sesshomaru with Kagome. Both sons certainly reacted to her entrance rather inquisitively now for what reasons. He laughed to see Rin mewling at her mother about wanting to eat sweets. Kagome smiled and bounced her daughter in her lap while speaking to her using multiple methods of communication at the same time. There were a combination of auras, signs, mewls, and speech. Izayoi came over to show a sign she had learned which had Rin clapping for joy and distracted from the smells of the kitchen. He was proud of this moment. Inuyasha made the mistake of twitching his ears and Rin practically stepped all over Kagome's lap and climbed up Sesshomaru's side so she could get to them. His sons were showing growth which meant they could handle more responsibility and obtain more of their birthright. Now if he could just figure out the kind of trouble his son was into without directly asking him….

"I'm sorry I'm late. Work caught me up."

Everyone turned to see Kimi glide through the dark in designer clothes and sunglasses. She immediately walked into the kitchen and went to Izayoi to give her greetings before going to Inutashio and kissing him on the cheek. She touched both sons on the cheek affectionately before stopping to see what was climbing up her son's side.

"Tell me this is a joke." She stated pointing to Rin who began reversing her actions and trying to get in her mother's lap.

"What is dear?" Izayoi asked taking her strudel out of the oven.

"Am I the only one that sees a pup and a human in this kitchen. Who do they belong to?" She asked looking at the men questionably.

Kagome's face became red slightly. She knew exactly who the demoness was. The world knew Lady Inukimi Meido. Despite her status, that didn't excuse her from being so rude. She bit her lip to keep her temper down but she wasn't exactly good at that. Kikyo was known for staying cool and collected all the time having never shown bouts of anger. But she always went off at the mouth. Lady Inukimi was no stranger as she recognized her from the courts when the status of the Yomi's will, wealth, Rin's royal status and her ability to take care of Rin was questioned among court. She hugged her daughter close to her protectively.

"They aren't property Kimi!" Izayoi responded placing her items on the counter and smiling at her creation. "They are our guests."

"Kimi, this is Rin. Rin is Kagome's daughter." He introduced pointing to Kagome who sat up straighter and held the poker face like that she would at her restaurant. He placed his paper down and gave the women his full attention. "Kagome this is Kimi, Alpha to this clan. Kimi this is Kagome Higurashi the owner of Shikon."

Kimi stilled having heard her last name. Her head whipped to the little woman making mental calculations. She smiled and walked around her sons to sit at the table as gracefully as she entered the kitchen. She took off her shades and sat down her purse on the table. "I've heard a great deal about you." She spoke with humor in her eyes. "I haven't laughed quite as loud in a long time when the tale of Kaguya's buffoonery met my ears. Everyone knows the policy of your place. Only the lowly of the low do not." She stated digging in her purse for her fan.

Kagome nodded and exhaled with relief. She did feel a little uncomfortable about talking about Kaguya when Sesshomaru was standing there. She wasn't a troublemaker and despite any bad tension they may have had in the past, he and his family had done a lot for her. She wouldn't talk about Kaguya if she meant that much to Sesshomaru. Thinking quickly she changed the topic hoping Kimi wouldn't catch on. "You look amazing this morning." She complemented while holding onto Rin who was sniffing the new fragrance in the air. She was wrong in her assumption.

"I always look amazing darling." She responded whipping her fan out and fanning herself gently. "Nice try by the way. I saw what you did there." She smirked and pointed her fan towards Kagome. "So unlike your sister."

Kagome stilled then. Her grip around Rin tightened and she looked around the kitchen watching as Izayoi turned towards her. "R-really?" She said shakenly. Fear rose up that they would recall her sister. Her sister was known by the world for her being a miko but climbed higher for her art. Yet, her tragedy had unfortunately garnered the worst press. Of course she felt it was bad but she had never seen Kikyo in the state she was reportedly in. She couldn't possibly go back to Japan. She just couldn't do it. But the news went pretty far to make sure she knew about her sister's ways.

"You have a sister?" Inutashio asked folding his paper. "I didn't know that."

Kimi wasn't a fool. She could tell something was amiss. "Yes, I saw her and we shared conversation. Brilliant woman. Tall and sleek. Loves…ART." She emphasized scandalously watching Kagome do the same tilt of the head as Kikyo when her brain was hyperactive. She nearly laughed at the predicament the poor soul was in.

"A sister?" Inuyasha asked keeping his ears placed lowly to his skull so to not attract Rin's attention again. He thought back to the time at the bar and he nodded when she mentioned her sister called. "Where is she? How come you don't talk about her much?"

Sesshomaru remained silent knowing Kikyo's side of things. He simply listened and watched to learn more as Kikyo was definitely tight lipped but it seemed Kagome was equally as silent. Clearly, it was apparent now more than ever that the Hugurashi sisters weren't exactly close if going by Kagome's hesitation and anxiety in her aura that was connected to Rin. His father seemed to feel the anxiety as well.

Inutashio looked to Rin noticing she was looking aggravated. He sensed distress coming from Kagome and even more so now from Rin. He wasn't sure if it was his place to step in or not to calm them both. It was a rather odd situation. If they were claimed as pack mates he could stretch his aura to calm them or if Kagome was mated to one of his sons, her anxiety would go down. Mother and daughter were still connected. He watched Kagome rub Rin's back gently before responding to calm her down. But why would just a mention of her sister cause her so much anxiety?

"Well I work a lot and she lives back in Japan so we don't really see much of each other." She responded hoping she didn't have to give too much. Rin began shifting in her seat and pushing against her arms rather boisterously. "Rin!" She chastised.

Kimi hid her smirk behind her fan watching Kagome dance around her words. She wondered if anyone knew in the kitchen that Kagome had a sister. Did they know who that sister was besides Izayoi? She shared a glance with Izayoi who subtly shook her head and promised a conversation worth gold. She would play this game the two sisters seemed to put into motion…for now. Kimi waved her hand in the air. "It matters not. Back to this Kaguya business. I-" Kimi blinked and grew silently suddenly feeling a weight against her leg. "Hm?" She responded and looked down to see Rin's nose in her stomach sniffing away. Kimi raised an eyebrow at the little pup noticing the pup's behavior who was still just a baby among demons. Now how a pup got in the hands of restaurant owner and mortal was beyond her. Usually, courts favored demons to take care of their own.

Everyone held their breath at the scene before them that could go either way. Kagome swallowed hard and went to get her pup. She tried to keep her still but Rin wouldn't have any of it, using strength Kagome didn't know Rin had to get away. She made to move out of her seat when this time Inutashio placed his hand on her shoulders and smiled reassuringly at her. Kagome turned pouring a little more of her energy into her pup just in case she had to protect her from harm.

Kimi bent down and picked Rin up delicately with both clawed hands. She placed her in her lap and simply moved her purse and her fan out of harm's way. Rin's nose moved along her shirt and body. Her tiny claws latched onto her dress to keep her balance. She yipped happily making a sign with her hand. Kimi was baffled not understanding her broken sounds and the movements of her hands.

"She loves your scent. She says you smell like flowers." Kagome explained in low tones as Inutashio nodded in agreement.

"Rin has a slight communication problem but she is overcoming." Inutashio responded.

Rin reached for her sunglasses and placed them on her small round face. Kimi smirked and held the pup protectively around her body so she wouldn't fall off her lap. "Well…she has great taste. This is Chanel darling." She pointed out watching Rin's nose continue to wiggle with excitement. Kimi bent to sniff Rin and collect her scent when she stilled. She sat back and looked at Kagome across the table with wide eyes instantly recognizing who she was and along with Rin. It made sense now completely. She looked to her son watching him glare at her with a knowing gaze. "Hm…" She dragged shifting her gaze to the infamous wealthy royal pup in her lap. Kimi pushed her dark glasses further on Rin's nose and turned her around so her hands could play on the table. "Fabulous you are pup. And so much more stylish and efficient than those nuisances that work for me." She groaned thinking about the dimwitted she left behind back at the main branch in the US.

"It can't be that bad." Izayoi said coming to the table and placing a stack of hot pancakes on the table.

"Oh…" She moaned dramatically. "They are awful! No one can find anything when I ask it and those Americans are so sensitive!"

Rin nodded her head as if she knew what the demoness was saying much to Kimi's joy. Izayoi walked over placing more dishes on the table and calling her sons to sit down. "Have you seen Shiori? She was supposed to come over too for breakfast." Izayoi stated concerned as Inutashio glared at her knowing she knew where Shiori was.

Kimi zipped her lips and did the motion. "I saw her this morning. We discussed a little business and then I left. But don't worry I will grab her for dinner and make sure she doesn't skip out this time." She responded as Izayoi placed a cup of coffee in front of her.

"I'll call her." Inuyasha said as he reached in his pocket and pulled out his phone. He took his phone off silent and looked to see he had a new message. He unlocked his phone and read the text he just received from Kikyo with concern. He looked to Inukimi and he sighed deeply. He should have known her visit wasn't just a house call. She was investigating something.

But what exactly?

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