Bonjour!
Author's Note Must Read: I will try to put out another chapter before the Thanksgiving holiday next week! No promises as I'm leaving on Nov 16 to be with family. So you may or may not get an update that week. Just warning ya! check my profile page because I will be posting expected update dates there.
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Chapter 29: Mud Pies
"I'm so happy all of you could make it to Paris." Kaguya said elatedly as she sat at the cozy dinner table in a restaurant that had sanctioned a private area for their esteemed guests to sit. Her pink coated lips grew wide in a smile seeing her mother and father present at the side across from her. Her father was dressed in a blue suit wearing two gold cufflinks she had bought for him as a gift. Her mother sat at his side wearing a nice black dress with white pearls coating her body and a lovely luxurious mink fur coat draping on the back of her chair. She loved her parents and couldn't have picked a better time for them to come to Paris and check-up on things. Sesshomaru was seated next to her dressed quite dashingly adding to her perfect picture. Except that he was so much colder than usual. Her eyes strayed up at him as he spoke to them all as if he was memorizing the elements of the periodic table.
This is where they were now in the relationship they had. She had come from the pitiful doctor's appointment, angry and demanding Sesshomaru come see her so that they could talk. She was serious and had called her parents to speak with them on the matter. She had found out that her parents had arrived to surprise them as well as meet Sesshomaru's parents. But before she could get to her father, her mother had intervened with a stern glare. Her mother bluntly put it to her that her current feelings of fury and gloom were inappropriate and that her energy should be put into keeping her demon at her side. Her mother reminded her of the scandal and the chaos that would happen should it come out that her relationship had fail. The press would have a field day that she had separated with one of the world's most powerful demon males. Then she would be deemed as unmarriageable because the Prince did not want her. But above all that she would no longer be eligible for the title of "Princess" next to her name and risk putting their family into shame.
This was enough to confront Sesshomaru head on. She told him she was setting the wedding date. Her mother called their lawyers and the Youkai Court inviting them to Paris so that they could begin the mating counseling sessions. She had called vendors and released press statements about their ceremony to the blogs, magazines, and tabloids. He questioned her motive as to what had brought on her sudden urge to go forward despite his wishes to wait. She simply told him she was ready and did not see why they had to postpone their nuptials anymore. His businesses were doing fine and his father was handling the estate just fine. Before he could get out his argument, she had already told him she had called the Youkai Council and they were dated to arrive in November. To her dismay, he had only nodded his head and left the condo without saying a word.
She was infuriated. She thought the conversation would help but it didn't. He still spent designated nights with her but it was painful. There were nights when he did not even look at her as they copulated. She immediately went to the bathroom afterwards and scraped his essence into the safety capsule and brought it in to the doctor. Now she just needed to wait and let science do the work. If not, then she would rip the doctor's private practice into shreds. Kaguya inhaled deeply and touched her stomach. It had to work. She didn't know what else to do. Nothing seemed to be working to build that spark he seemed to have in her when they first met. Sex wasn't helping. It seemed to be making things worst. He wouldn't stay or hold her in the night. He was gone as soon as he released onto her belly just as always. The only difference is during the day he would text her or go out to more public events with her and her friends. He never said anything during the entire time.
She looked him over watching his lips move and she vaguely listened to the words spill from his mouth. Soon after he finished, her mother's voice sang in her ear. Kaguya sighed as her mother told a story about something that didn't engage her interests. Instead she found her eyes wondering to a far couple in the corner sitting close under the dim lighting of the room. A small red cupcake with buttercream frosting had arrived to their table with a single candle burning brightly and lighting up their joyful faces. Their heads were tucked towards each other and their smiles were wide. The man leaned into the woman's ear speaking to her with his hands resting on her palms. He lifted them to his lips and placed a kiss on them while she blew out the candle. He looked so happy to be there and she looked equally as ecstatic as well to receive his attention. That's what she wanted. That adoration filled look in their eyes. The sense of deep caring for the other that couldn't be denied by anyone around. That intimacy.
She wanted that. She was trying her best but, her best was failing her. That morning she sat down again at her vanity and tried to stop the rush of angry tears from falling down her face. She had gone to sleep with Sesshomaru at her side but woke up alone in her cold bed. It was becoming a strange routine that had her struggling to come to terms as to what relationship she wanted and what relationship she was getting. The press kept taking pictures and publishing them in the gossip pages and periodicals but that morning was the straw that broke the camel's back. The newspaper had come in to add to her melancholy with their findings and exaggerations. The press had taken pictures of them both at events, galas, operas, etc. Spread in headlines was a reaching story about their engagement. Already they were being called the royal couple and had the pictures to go with it. The pictures of them together were spread about with her stunning smirk and drop gorgeous gowns draped next to his tall dashing form standing proudly before the cameras. There lay the problem. It was all at…events. Then there were the other pictures of him with his family and those girls on the other pages. His face may have not shown a smile but his body language spoke everything in those pictures.
He was spotted with his Beta and Alpha speaking rather relaxed with his hands shoved in his khaki pockets while out near a cafe. His head was bent slightly in the direction of the human who was clearly speaking quite animatedly with her hands. At his side was a grinning Lady Inukimi beside him holding onto his other hand as if guiding him through the subject they were speaking on. Another picture graced the paper where he was holding his atrocious sister's bags as she walked out of some designer store with him. There was a photo of him seated at a bar table with the wolf prince and his half demon brother chatting it up one evening around a few drinks. A few more were spread about with him at his restaurant looking down critically at a few plates of food presented to him by a line of chefs. She had kept flipping when she came to the next page that had quite a scandalous headline. It was in this moment that the sadness she didn't realize she was holding in her heart had come out to haunt her. The pictures with his family, she could handle. It was the others that had her on edge and sent her mind plunging into despair.
Sesshomaru was in one photo holding the small half-demon runt close to him as he walked next to the pathetic human somewhere at her side from his car. Her little claws had the nerve to dive into his silver hair and hang onto him as if he was of some relation. The headline questioned the relationship and was asking the questions she wanted to know. Why were they together? She swore one night she could smell the potent stench of humans on his clothes and she was right. Another was taken that night she saw him speaking with the devil Kikyo. Their bodies were seated at one of his tables and both where leaned in with intense expressions. The photo seemed to have come up from a patron that dined that night and finally released the photo. He didn't look pleased in the caption but he was so close to her that if she just leaned forward she was sure their lips would have met. Then on page six there was a recent shot of him with his brother in front of the hospital the night that he did not come home when she texted him to come see her. He never told her where he had gone and who was with him. The pressed didn't seem to know either. So much mystery surrounded him and what was worst is that she was equally as shut out as the world was. That stung.
She looked over the images taking note of his stance with her versus his stance with the others. Sure there was an occasional photo of him with his family at a grand event but, even in those he was close. He was present. She could just see it yet she couldn't explain it. This man that she had spent almost two years courting and finally capturing his attentions for him to propose to her…seemed to show more interest a plate of poached eggs than he did in their relationship. The photos were proof of this. None of the photos where she shared in his space, showed that sort of…relaxed and intimate nature that he shared with others around him.
In all the photos he shared with the others, his hair was loose and his body was turned inwards clearly attentive to the people and conversations around him. His face was stoic or angry but he was there and attentive. Kaguya picked up her glass of wine vaguely listening as laughter from her father erupted from his jovial expression at whatever her mother was saying. She looked over at Sesshomaru seeing his stiff posture and calculating expression that he always had when he was with her but never with the others of his family...and the miko cretins. He was not leaned in or sitting relaxed like he would with his brother and father. He was not tilted protectively over her like he would with his female pack mates. He did not hold her hand or offer comfort like he had shown with young mutt in the photo. He did none of these things with her. Yet…he wanted this bond with her. The bond of everlasting companionship. Kaguya took a hard sip of her wine at this thought.
Mates. She wanted this with all her being. She wanted this relationship to work out by any means. She could not have this relationship fail. Everyone knew what was at stake. Her parents had made moves to secure their future and lawyers had gotten involved. Her family were of royal lineage themselves and so every member was married and mated properly increasing their wealth, power, and prestige. In her parents relationship…her father worked and her mother took care of the family and estate. Even her grandparents were still alive and mated. Everyone expected it from her and she too desired to be mated as well. Kaguya looked at her ring less finger. They both agreed that rings were a mortal ritual and meant very little. Her eyes went to the corner where the man and woman sat intimately speaking to each other. Their hands showed their little bands speaking loudly to the public of their connection.
"So have you picked a date?" Mr. Utomi asked looking at them both as their orders had come and were placed on the table politely by the staff. His plump body was held tightly in his black suit as he waved away a server. His face was stern as he looked to Sesshomaru for the answer.
Kaguya looked up at Sesshomaru as he nodded to the question. His poker face was on and nothing could get by him. Not even her. Kaguya listened as he responded with a cool tone that she could feel freezing her heart. "Kaguya wishes for a winter wedding. December 10th." His plate was placed in front of him going instantly invisible among the conversation.
"That's only four months away." Mrs. Utomi said as her head snapped to her daughter. Her hand slowly laid her napkin in her lap while processing her daughter's words. "Have you picked out colors? Invitations?" Her mother looked to her with a knowing gaze and nodded her head in approval. Kaguya inhaled taking the support and nodding.
"Well I was hoping that you could help us mother with the planning." Kaguya said excitedly. She watched as her salmon was set in front of her and her wine glass was refilled. "I have contacted the planner that did Princess Kate's wedding to help with mine."
"Of course!" Mrs. Utomi exclaimed looking between her daughter and Sesshomaru with bright violet eyes. "There is so much to do! We need to contact guests, find a venue, and pick out a gown! We should have Alexander Wang take a look!"
"Well that's all great." Her father cut in taking his knife and slicing into his lobster frittata. "But don't forget. We need to plan for the days after your ceremony as well." Her father said. "There is much to negotiate about this marriage and the Youkai Council will be arriving soon to...ensure traditions are kept."
"After?" Kaguya asked looking at her father confused. She could feel her fiancé's aura shift and a frosty chill crept up her spine.
"We will need to discuss business as well as expectations of your marriage." He turned his head to Sesshomaru who simply sat silent listening and choosing to not participate as much in the forced conversation. "I'm sure this cooking thing is only a pastime, Sesshomaru." He spoke bolding cutting off his title. "It is merely an art to conquer if you will. After all, your father owns a billion dollar corporation and still serves as governing head over his territories. We are all aware that my precious daughter Kaguya will be taking your last name. You are aware also that she will be inheriting titles and affluence along with your mark. This all needs to be…documented." He finished looking at his daughter who seemed unsure of the conversation at the table. "I'm sure there is much to do on your end especially with your father." The older demon laughed. "Where is he by the way?"
Sesshomaru now openly glared at the demon. His food had come yet he did not touch it. His jaw had locked as he maintained his infamous control and stoic expression. Everything inside of him begged to reach out and slice through the fat bald man. His golden eyes looked him over reading between the lines at what he was hinting at. The very document that sealed him in this relationship was being waved in his face at the moment. But even before he had gotten to that, he dared to question his choice in lifestyle. The rage pulsing inside of him was growing and his instincts were taking over mental thought processing.
Kaguya had pushed things faster than his own hired help could search for clauses to break the contract. Faster than Kaguya could do any major damages to break the contract herself and make it void as well. He had banked on her idiocy and shortsightedness to do continue to do things that would dishonor their engagement and be presented to the Youkai Council. She seemed to be adamant about going forward against his wishes to wait until they returned to Japan. His aura poured from his body unfiltered and unabashedly. He could feel his claws lengthen and grip the table as he watched through slit like eyes at the bald man that smirked thinking that he wouldn't do anything. He was would prove him wrong this evening. Sesshomaru honestly did not know how much he could stomach of being around the imbeciles that surrounded him at the table. This had been the biggest mistake he had ever made in his life.
"We're here!"
Sesshomaru froze at the high pitch sound of a woman's voice that he had grown strangely accustomed to. Immediately, he stood up and checked his temperament knowing this impromptu arrival was by no means, no coincidence. He turned to his side and couldn't believe what he was seeing. He mentally shook his head at the entrance being made at the quintessential upscale restaurant in the heart of Paris. He could already hear the sound of camera lens changing and pictures snapping from smart phones. Gliding up to their table was none other than his Beta and Father dressed extremely fashionable well in their royal garbs. His father had on a nice black suit and silver tie. The blue crescent moon of his family's crest sat on the lapel of his jacket. His long hair hung down his back eloquently. A single blue sash crossed his front of his chest with his medals proudly placed upon the sash showing his positive efforts to the international community as well as stating his royal status as King. But what had everyone gasping for breath and murmuring was his Beta.
Izayoi glided forth in a sparkling blue ball gown with her hair pulled up in illustrious brown curls on her head. Her blue sashes and notable medals including the peace medallion were pinned to her front. The flag of Paris was also on her sash as well as the Western crest. On her head was her formal diamond crown shining big and bright for all to see. Everyone seemed to have turned in their chairs and tried to look beyond the privacy of the wall separating them from the main room. As they approached, everyone else stood up as well. As I on cue the staff came out bringing two new seats to the table right next to Sesshomaru, seating them to his left. He motioned for his Beta to sit next to him as was her place to be surrounded by her male pack mates protectively.
"Such a pleasure to have you with us Lord Tashio!" Mr. Utomi spoke bowing lightly to the tall statuesque demon. It didn't go unnoticed that he failed to mention his mate at his side. "I didn't know it was this kind of grand affair…" He said gesturing to his fancy attire.
"You have to thank my beautiful mate for that. I would have not come at all had it not been for her words and wishes to support our oldest." Inutashio said guiding his mate by her waist to her chair. Izayoi bowed her head politely before taking her seat and thanking Sesshomaru for pushing her chair in. He showed in that moment where all three of his pups got their tact from. Inutashio smoothed his tie before taking a seat next to his wife. His guard was up and the dog inside of him was pacing. His son had showed signs of rage and he would not take it lightly.
Mr. Utomi inhaled sharply before looking over at the human woman who smiled brightly. He could not ignore her as she glittered brightly to all eyes surrounding her. "Thank you, Lady Izayoi." He said through gritted teeth not accustomed to having to show such reverence to humans.
Izayoi smiled and looked to Sesshomaru pouring her gentle aura towards him hoping to calm him. She could feel remnants of his anger about him and this had her worried. She boldly reached up to cup his cheek with her hand white gloved hand. "I do apologize for our tardiness. Duty rang loudly this evening. But I wouldn't miss this meeting for anything." She said hoping he understood her message. They were here to support him regardless of whatever he chose to do.
They were previously at a formal affair with Parliament and she made the announcement that they were leaving early anyway for a private matter. Their judicial duties required their attentions to look over a human rights bill for gender equality that was pushed on the agenda. She didn't see the point in staying to hear others argue amongst themselves. She and her mate had already approved it not seeing the point in trying to tell other people who to love. While a presenter was boring her to death with repetition on a matter she had already given her final remarks about, she pulled out her phone and looked around to see a recent post with her son tagged in it. Sesshomaru did not tell them about this meeting. She smiled inwardly having learned of this through social media of all things. Thankfully, Kaguya puts up everything about their lives on her pages and she had learned that they were dining with her parents that evening. Izayoi had immediately told her mate who had announced that they had an important engagement to attend and before anyone could stop them they were racing out like two teenagers free from detention. She imagined she looked quite the sight rushing around in public to their car with a ball gown and a crown on. Her mate was at her side helping her lift the side up so she wouldn't trip laughing openly at her tenacity to get to their son hoping she wouldn't miss anything. Upon their arrival they could feel their son's aura all the way outside and her heart quickened with worry. However it was nothing to the concern she could feel coming from the bond she shared with his father who actually knew the strength of his rage first hand.
Izayoi gave her drink request to her servers who all came in waves to help them in any way they could. She smiled and turned to Mr. and Mrs. Utomi with a bright smile. "Forgive me! I believe this is the first time we are officially meeting. What are your names?" She asked politely as Inutashio reached for her hand and held it securely in front of them unabashedly.
Kaguya listened to her parents go through their grand introductions while watching Sesshomaru's pack mates hold hands. Both held this light about them that captured eyes and interests. Inutashio had his palm faced up and Izayoi rested hers lightly in his grasp yet held on. She watched them bow their heads showing that they were interested and repeating the names together that they had learned. She looked to Izayoi wondering how on earth a human could be so…lucky. It was shameful. It was disgraceful. Here she was confused. A proud demoness. Before her sat a human…happily mated for over three hundred years with a demon mate that had the blood line many would kill for. How could this have happened? What was so special about her? Was it her status? Her wealth? Did she help him somehow during the wars?
"Pleasure meeting you, both." Izayoi said. "I'm sure you already know who we are." She said waving away their moment for long titles and status announcements not finding it needed to be mentioned.
"Mr. Tashio." His father introduced still putting some formal distance between him and the couple. "This is my exquisite mate, Mrs. Tashio." He finished as Izayoi flashed her dazzling smile in his direction and she squeezed his hand firmly showing her affection and feeling honored for his compliments. In this moment they were simply Sesshomaru's family. Nothing more and nothing less.
Izayoi broke eye contact with her mate to look at the pair across from them. "Please, tell us more about yourselves. I would like to get to know the people that have raised such an audacious daughter that has caught us off guard." She said giving a cocktail of a compliment and an insult.
Sesshomaru sat rigid in his chair unsure of what to make of the entire evening. He would have liked to ask them how they knew about this but he was sure the answer was sitting next to him in a luxury satin ball gown. Her warm delicate aura lightly prickled against his skin. Not enough to smother him but just enough to know that she was present. His father's on the other hand was obnoxiously flooding the entire restaurant and pushing against his demonic aura. He could feel his father checking him for signs of distress and growing anxious. Sesshomaru cursed to himself at letting his anger and pride swell. His claws twitched ever so to graze through skin, flesh, and bone. Never had he allowed anything to grate on his nerves the way this situation did. Had he lived in the days of sword and shield again, he would have simply fought his way out. And succeeded….
He looked over at his father and Beta sitting at his side. On one end he could reach over and skin them both because he did not need them to be here. Their presence wasn't necessary especially when soon the two families will have nothing in common except for distant memories. Yet, dare he say he felt pride for his pack that they would come to stand beside him with unwavering faith and loyalty.
"Will Lady Inukimi be joining us?" Mrs. Utomi asked turning around in her seat to see if another party member was coming.
"Unfortunately no, my Alpha will not be joining us this evening. She has a previous engagement that she could not decline and sends her deepest regards." Izayoi said touching the space where her heart beat dramatically. The response she gave was far from the truth. When she had found out about the dinner, Izayoi texted Kimi immediately about the situation and asked for her to come. Kimi was working late that night and her office was not very far. She could have beaten them there if she tried. But she sent a response stating that the last place she wanted to be was in front of people that were going to waste her time and space. She was adamant about pointing out that they meant very little to her and thus she didn't think they deserved the privilege to even sit in her presence. It was quite the longest and harshest decline of an event she had received in quite a long time from the demoness.
"That's so disappointing." Mrs. Utomi responded with the tone that Kaguya used when talking about humans, dirt, and bugs. "I would have liked to meet her as it seems our paths have not crossed as of yet."
"I'm sure the moment will come in the future." Izayoi said lying through her teeth. Inutashio began coughing after her sentence which earned him a glare from his mate. "Drink some water dear." She said watching as he smirked and lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her white gloved hand with affection and bright eyes. She knew the sultry look and she would be a liar if she said she wasn't excited about it.
"I was asking your son about your business." Mr. Utomi cut in desiring not to see such a sight during his meal. "Surely, the reigns of your empire will go into the hands of your supreme legacy." He said looking to Sesshomaru.
"Ah yes." Inutashio said looking over at his son and nodding at him. Now he understood what may have set him off. He had this conversation plenty of times already. All of his children could do whatever they want. His legacy was their success as they were the greatest thing to come from him and the two most amazing women in his life. He looked to Mr. Utomi a little intrigued by the man's boldness. He knew his next couple of words would set him off for sure. He relished in this moment. "My pups are successful in their own right and have built empires of their own. I'm a proud sire." He lifted his mate's hand and rubbed it affectionately. "The reigns of our empire are still in our hands." He spoke giving the women in his life credit. Yes he was a ruler of his lands but the women added to his credibility. He rubbed his chin in false thought with the other hand. "I have decided however to train one of my mentees into co-operating my businesses as I'm sure the next three years are going to be…quite busy for us." He said looking at his wife who seemed to blush at some unknown secret.
Kaguya wanted to toss her wine on their faces for their open display of affection. She watched as Lady Izayoi opened the floor for communication and reluctantly her father started speaking constantly turning the conversation towards Lord Inutashio who redirected it back into his mate's hands. Kaguya picked at her glazed salmon and took measured bites while watching how they interacted with each other. Just like in the photos, Sesshomaru would lean down towards his Beta when she spoke. His father showed equal if not more attention and was almost pulling Izayoi into his lap. The great Inu demon somehow had shifted in his seat closer to his mate if possible. She looked to her parents and she could see their affection for each other in their own way. But they did not have that warmth and longing for the other that the Tashio's had. She wanted what Lady Izayoi and Lord Inutashio had. The same thing that the couple in the cozy corner from before had as well. What was it? What is this? She didn't know. But she knew for certain that it wasn't there between her and Sesshomaru.
Kaguya looked down at her hands holding her silverware before placing them down. "Excuse me everyone, I need to visit the lady's room." She said placing her napkin on the table and moving to stand. Sesshomaru pulled her chair out for her but did nothing else to help her along the way. She thanked him politely and walked away. Quicker than she thought that she could move, she made her way to the woman's restroom. Upon entering, she checked for anyone inside and found it was empty. She walked over to the sink and clutched the counter feeling her heart suddenly pick up pace. She opened her mouth and took big deep breaths. She felt like screaming. Everything was right but so wrong. She closed her eyes hoping it was the wine she consumed causing such rash behavior but it wasn't. She had not consumed enough it had seemed for her to tell herself it was the fault of a glass of 1945 Chateau Mouton-Rothschild.
Her nose twitched at the scent of her mother's strong perfume approaching like a fog. Kaguya immediately walked to a stall and turned around to seem as if she had just finished her business. She was in mid-stride to the sink when the door swung open and in walked her mother. Kaguya turned on the sink and began washing her hands. "Are you ok mo-"
"What are you doing?" She asked crossing her arms over her chest.
"What are you talking about? I'm washing my hands." Kaguya asked rinsing the soap off of her sharp red nails.
Mrs. Utomi rolled her eyes and came forward. Kaguya turned to grab a napkin for her hands when her chin was snatched and held by two fingers. Piercing black, brown eyes stared into her own. "Rule number one when it comes to keeping your man…never leave him by himself."
"But he's with-"
"I'm very much aware with whom he's with but men's minds tend to wonder." She said harshly. She let go of Kaguya's chin and stepped back. "Your relationship is fresh and new and very fragile. You need to be smarter than this." Mrs. Utomi said pacing now in front of the sinks. "Your father is leading the conversation with boring talk about business. It is your place to lead the conversation and to get his pack onto your side. Not back here sulking."
"I wasn't-"
"Spare me your lies, daughter." She said walking to the door. "Now get out there and do your duty." She said before opening the door and walking out of the bathroom leaving Kaguya to stand in the middle of the bathroom angrier than before she came in. But also feeling the start of the pieces of a heart she didn't know she had begun to break.
Kagome and Rin were happily cooking in their little kitchen surrounded by the music loud from a radio she had turned on. Both were dressed in colorful tank tops and shorts bonding over Kagome's favorite activity just like she did with her mom when she was younger. Steam filled the air from the marinated steaks that were now grilling on the stove. A pot of garlic and chive butter sauce was bubbling to its right. Rin was standing on a chair at her side against the countertop while she sang the words to the song playing. Rin was mixing a whip for their mid pies that they were making for dessert. Excitement had filled them both unlike any they felt in a long time. Tonight they would be making dinner and having Kikyo over. For the first time in a long time, family was coming over to dine with them. Kagome's stomach felt giddy and anxious and unsure of how the night would go.
Kagome heard the doorbell and helped Rin down from the counter so that they both could walk to the door. "Coming!" She yelled watching with humor as Rin rushed to the handles and tried to turn. Her nose wiggled and excitement was exploding in her aura and rushed into her own body making her feel high and elated. Kagome helped opened the door and smiled to see Kikyo holding two glass wine bottles and a large cloth covered canvas. She had on a black pantsuit jumper, black blazer, and sandals with her hair pulled up in a sleek ponytail looking quite classy for just a small family dinner.
Kikyo smiled bigger than she expected to at seeing her sister and Rin greeting her at the front door. "Hi!" She breathed as her legs were attacked from a hug by Rin. "I brought wine for you and sparkling grape juice for Rin." She said looking down at Rin's bright face.
Kagome smiled and leaned in to kiss Kikyo on both of her cheeks. She took her gifts and stepped out of the way allowing her entry into their home. "Let Aunt Yoyo walk, Rin." Kagome laughed as Rin practically pulled on Kikyo's long black dress pants into their living room. Kagome closed the door and locked it tightly behind them. Kagome watched as Kikyo looked with wide eyes around the room at her apartment. Kagome felt suddenly shy and defensive wondering what she was thinking. Kikyo was a designer and had done interior designing for the famous elite when she wasn't painting. She knew Kikyo would judge but swallowed her comments and just walked towards the kitchen. "Come in! I'm making dinner!"
Kikyo smiled and moved to take off her leather jacket. "Smells good, Kags." She said looking towards the kitchen smelling beef and onion. Kagome helped her out noting how slow her movements were as she turned with her feet. She took her jacket gently and put it in the closet with theirs. Kagome looked at the canvas at her side and smiled with genuine admiration and curiosity. "You're painting again!" She happily pointed out.
Kikyo took off her shoes and fully entered the home. She lifted the canvas and brought it over to the couch with Rin walking behind her foot to foot. She flipped the canvas over and took off the protective beige coverings. "Indeed I have. And my lovely beauties can be brought starting in the thousands for an original piece created my Kikyo Higurashi." She dramatically announced while showing off her newest colored piece. "But for you guys, it's free."
Kagome smiled and took it graciously while looking over at it. There were so many bright colors of a place that was dramatically exaggerated in acrylic paint. Kikyo looked at it and nodded her head before pointing. "It's the west bank of the River Palace on the Seine." She gave.
Kagome looked at it again now that she had the additional information. She could see it now and it made sense. The location was beautiful during the day and quite a romantic spot for lovers. "Beautiful" She moved to place it against the wall making a note on where she wanted to hang the masterpiece. Kikyo ruffled Rin's hair while looking around at the cozy place that was her sister's home. It definitely was Kagome to say the least. Odd nick-knacks and lack of color coordination and vibrant textures surrounded her. Rin's doodles, arts and crafts lined shelves next to tons of photos. Kitchen sayings and quotes filled any empty spaces along the walls. A bookcase with all kinds of books leaned near the old sofa that she remembered from before. Rin's toys were stacked in a corner that looked ready to explode any day now.
Rin moved her hands up and motioned to be lifted. Kikyo bent down to pick her up excitedly in her arms almost tearing up from the combination of nostalgia and the slight pain in her pelvis from the weight. "It's been a long time Rin!" She exclaimed and layered the side of Rin's plump face with hundreds of kisses. She pulled back and used her thumb to wipe away the gloss painting her cheek now. "You've gained some weight! You've been eating real good!" She joked looking to Kagome who nodded her head in agreement.
Rin reached for Kikyo's hand tightly and started making guttural noises. Kikyo looked to Kagome with a confused expression before Rin resorted to using her hands to communicate. Kikyo shifted her so she could use her other hand to sign back to her as she spoke. Kagome speed walked back into the kitchen and check on the steaks on the small grill plate she had on the stove. Kikyo walked slowly around the room with Rin pointing out things and asking questions trying to reacquaint herself back into their daily lives. Strange plants from flowers to a cactus sat on the window sill. They moved about slowly going over faces, spaces, and times that Kikyo recognized. Kikyo looked at an old photo of them visiting Minami Park in Okazaki to see the cherry blossoms and slowly old memories began to make themselves known. If she ever felt like stranger…it would be now. Among the pictures she recognized there was a sea of ones she didn't with people that seemed to have a special place in their lives. Kikyo moved to the picture of the Yomi's brushing it with her finger delicately. Rin leaned her head against Kiyko's shoulder knowing who they were. Silence came between them as Kikyo looked onward at the haunting memory. She smiled lightly and turned her head to kiss the top of Rin's before they moved onward to the kitchen to see what her mom was doing.
Kagome was cutting the corn off the cob with a knife with her bangs falling into her face. Kikyo watched her younger sister cutting at speeds she haven't seen anyone move in quite a time. Kikyo put down Rin who ran back to her chair to finish making the desserts. Kagome looked up and pointed with the knife to bowl of potatoes. "You want to cut them up for baking? Kagome smirked. "Does the great Kikyo remember how?"
Kikyo rolled her eyes yet stalked to the kitchen with a smile. She reached for one of her cutting knifes and gripped it like she had been taught by their mom. "I'll try not to burn the place down." She said going to the counter where the ingredients were waiting for preparation. Kagome directed her where to find things and Kikyo went to work dicing the potatoes. She worked at a quick pace with sure hands courtesy of the training of their mother. The music that Kagome had playing filled the space and soon the sisters found themselves singing along with lyrics at horrible pitches and off key notes. But their excitement was infectious and had even Rin trying to growl her way through the music. When the song ended conversations began and seasonings were thrown around.
"You remember when I almost cut my thumb off?" Kikyo asked looking now at the healed appendage thanks to her miko powers.
"You screamed like the lead in a horror movie." Kagome said remembering the night Kikyo was helping to make dinner and her thumb was almost on the menu. Kagome took the fresh dinner rolls from the oven and placed them on the stove to cool. "Momma passed out when she saw it." She laughed using her hips to close the door.
"She did not pass out!" Kikyo defended. "She just chose to sit down on the floor and a rapid pace with her eyes closed." Kagome laughed out loud at this while Kikyo wiggled her thumb.
Like before everything was light and the three of them did their part of the dinner. Rin was happy to have filled up her jars filled with mud pies. Kagome had given her the bowl to eat and they laughed watching Rin use her hands to get the filling out of the bowl and eat it. Kagome's nerves had calmed and Kikyo no longer felt awkward. It was nice. The music was turned down and the table was set for their evening together. Kagome poured everyone their drinks and nodded to Kikyo's request for water. Kagome put a fresh lemon slice in it to jazz it up.
Kagome watched Kikyo sit slowly in her chair and wince clearly still in pain from her ordeal. Kagome offered her pillows and some aspirin to help her but Kikyo turned it down. Everyone was seated and began to eat the fine meal that was prepared of savory melt in your mouth steak with the cream sauce they made served over a baked potato salad. Kikyo watched Rin eat excitedly chewing with her little teeth. The last time she saw Rin, the little girl was all gums. Now the little pup had tiny teeth and more growing in and was eating like an adult. Kikyo stilled for a moment and looked as if she was cramping when she decided to reach over and just take the aspirin after all.
Kagome pushed a seasoned potato across her plate before looking at Kikyo drink water from her glass. "You know…" Kagome started. "I got scared when the hospital called me and said you just left abruptly."
Kikyo swallowed her water and looked to Kagome before picking up her fork again. "You know better than anyone. I hate hospitals." She sighed delighted in the food she was eating. Something about Kagome's food always reminded her of their mom. She couldn't understand why but it did. It tasted so good and she was happy to be enjoying a meal with the freedom to relax.
Kagome nodded remembering the fact very well. "Should you really be out…like this?" She asked using her knife to cut her steak. "You look like you're in a lot of pain."
Kikyo sighed and shook her head. "I keep telling everyone. Kagome…I'm fine." She said trying to convey this to her little sister. "Today was very busy when I left. I had a lot of work to get done and had no time to heal myself properly. Plus, my miko powers are trying work but its progressing at a slower pace because of that god awful medicine they gave me when I was unconscious. One bottle of cotinine cost six hundred dollars but has in my opinion too many sedative properties in it for it to be legal and sold. Because of that medicine I'm essentially detoxing first before actually healing." She explained as Kagome listened intensely. Kagome was never one for over the counter drugs. She agreed with her sister on this matter. Organic substance was best instead of manmade chemicals. She knew as well that it was hard to heal yourself when your body was fighting a chemical warfare.
Kagome wiped her hands on her napkin. "Ok. I'll introduce you to Jinenji then. He owns a nursery not too far from my place and has a lot of natural herbs that you can check out." Kagome offered as Kikyo ate her food.
Rin jumped at the name and got excited expressing her enjoyment of his shop. The three way conversation began with enjoyment as Rin told about all the plants on the windows that were her friends, their names, and about the shop where she got them all. Kikyo asked her questions taking note first hand of Rin's development as a young pup. Kikyo mildly assessed her habits and nature. Rin was developing but slower than she would have liked and thought she would be. Her speech was still gone yet she was trying out sounds of the Inu dialect. Her aura was strong and her happiness was prevalent meaning she was growing in a healthy and safe environment. She could tell the bond Rin shared with her sister was fresh so this was all recent development. Kikyo picked up on the natural connection between her sister and Rin, thankful that they had a bond that was so strong. The last thing they needed was for someone to say that Kagome was unfit to be Rin's mother and point out any unnatural distances between the two. They had come a long way in demon and human relations but they still had quite a distance to go.
Kagome stood and took their empty plates and then came back with the desserts Rin had made. Rin talked about all her new friends with vigor from the plants to the people in her life. Kagome had to help her eat a few times and remind Rin to chew. Everyone from the shops to the restaurant was brought up. She was surprised to learn Sango was here as well working on her bakery and helping Kagome out. She laughed as Kagome told her about her Sous Chef's countless attempts to woo the strong opinionated woman. Names of the Tashio's soon followed as Rin shared her stories and enthusiasm along with wishful plans for them all to go flower picking in Izayoi's massive gardens. Rin then spoke excitedly about the new males in her life, Inuyasha and Sesshomaru. Rin told her how they were over and around all the time.
"Oh." Kikyo asked moving her spoon around her desert jar looking at Kagome with a smirk that had Kagome turning a dark shade of red. "All the time, huh?"
"Shut up, Kikyo!" Kagome said leaning over to help feed Rin her dessert so she wouldn't talk so much with her hands. She placed Rin's hand on her spoon and the other on the jar.
"Aren't you lucky?" Kiyko poked with humor before spooning her dessert into her mouth and swallowing at Kagome's glare. "So which one you thinking about bringing home? Sesshomaru or Inuyasha?"
"Kikyo!" Kagome exclaimed feeling her face heat up at her sister's insinuations.
"I can ask!" Kikyo defended enjoying seeing her sister so distraught like this. Her cheeks were pink and she was shoving chocolate into her daughters mouth trying to stop Rin from pouring gasoline on the fire with her innocent comments about who they spend their time with and what they do together. Kikyo pointed her spoon at Kagome with a thought. "Besides you can't tell me you haven't thought about it."
"I don't know what you're talking about." Kagome said leaving Rin to try again to feed herself hoping she wouldn't miss her mouth or drop the dessert on her clothes. "I'm too busy to have anything with anyone. And Rin takes up all my time."
Kikyo wasn't buying it at all. She had learned that the men was around Kagome quite a lot these days. They had even been in her home where hardly no man had ever been allowed to venture. She had been thinking about Inuyasha's hangup with his feelings since he dropped her off at her loft. She knew it was partially because her sister was giving him no signals that she wanted to run the bases with him. Kagome had always been like that though. There were lots of guys pining after her little sister. But Kagome just went on with life without even giving anyone a second glance too busy with school and her career. Kikyo thought her sister was gorgeous underneath the heavy white chef's jacket and the hideous dark black pants she wore that just swamped her figure. But she was blind to the ways that men looked at her and even more dense when it came to reciprocating her feelings.
Kikyo remembered a time when Kagome got sick with the flu and her high school's sweetheart Hojo came by to drop off her homework. He claimed to have wanting to check up on her and had even stayed behind to help tutor her once she got better. Kagome returned to school and Kikyo had learned through the grapevine of her underclassmen that the boy had a thing for her. Hojo started hanging out more and more with her during school but Kagome refused to acknowledge that he wanted to be more than friends. Kagome friend zoned him faster than she could say his name. Kikyo spent a good afternoon explaining to Kagome why he stopped coming over and began spending time with her friend Yuri who wore her uniform skirts just a little bit higher than the dress code allowed. Kagome was in shock and didn't know how to feel afterwards.
Kagome was a hot blooded woman regardless of whatever she told herself. She had to have lusted at least once in her life over a man...or a woman if she swung that way. Kikyo thought about that note and looked over at Kagome. "Are you gay? Because its cool you know..."
"No!" Kagome said louder than she wanted causing Rin to reach for her ears. Kagome apologized and lowered her tone. "There's nothing wrong with preference but I am not part of the LGBT community."
"How do you know?" Kikyo said leaning forward watching Kagome's face officially resemble a pomegranate. "You don't seem to think Sesshomaru and Inuyasha are attractive and they are listed in Time Magazine's count of sexiest men alive."
"I know I'm straight!" Kagome said holding her cheeks in her hands. "They are both very handsome-"
"Ha!" Kikyo said catching Kagome in her trap. "So you do think they are good looking! Now which one do you like more?"
Kagome shook her head and bit her lip choosing to look anywhere but at her sister. "I'm not talking about this anymore." She was getting hot and bothered now. Everyone seemed to be thinking there was something going on when clearly there was nothing. It wasn't like she thought they were ugly. They were handsome in their own ways just as they were equally annoying at times. But she was serious! She had too much on her plate to be swooning over pompous princes like all the girls in France. Kagome thought about the time she had seen them at their home shirtless and her cheeks began to grow hot. But did she want that? Did she do something to have caused these ideas? Maybe she was missing something here? Did everyone know something she didn't? Did one of them say something about her? She hoped she didn't do anything. Sesshomaru was going to be married and she didn't want to have done anything to interfere. The last thing she needed was for her name to be in the press again. But what about Inuyasha? Did she say something to him? What if she said something to both of them? "Oh my..."
Kikyo put another spoonful of dessert in her mouth and ate excitedly. she could already see her dear sister having a mental breakdown trying to sort through everything. She hadn't had this much fun at her sister's expense since high school. "I mean hypothetically speaking if Sesshomaru wasn't in a relationship and was single, would you like to see whats dangling in his pants? Or does Inuyasha strike your fancy?" Kikyo laughed at Kagome's groan. Kikyo was careful of her words with Rin present but if her niece wasn't there the conversation would be scandalous.
"What about you?" Kagome asked turning the tables to Kikyo.
"Me?" Kikyo asked.
"Yes! You spend a lot of time with them too." She accused, eyeing her sister across the table. "Maybe you are the one that wants to get with one of them."
Kikyo's eyebrows rose. "Hmm...I never really thought about it." She raised her finger to her chin and tapped in thought. "Both have hot butts and can really pull off Calvin Klein jeans. I've heard rumors from few past friends that they are great in bed too." She said watching as Kagome placed her hand over her eyes clearly regretting asking Kikyo. "I know from my experience if you can find a demon lover who knows how to use that extra energy then hold on to them. But Sesshomaru and Inuyasha have snarky mouths and their arrogant behavior sort of ruins the fantasy for me." She finished. "But if I had the opportunity that you have, I wouldn't mind taking one of them for a test run."
"Why did I even ask." Kagome said laughing at her sister's comments. Kikyo was always blunt and seemed to be even more so now. She wasn't even shocked that she answered her this way but that she gave extra details. But this is what she envied about Kikyo. Growing up, Kikyo was always so sure of herself in everything she did. That included dating and putting effort into looking her best everyday. Guys lined up at school to date her older sister. Several times she had been pulled to the side by boys trying to bribe her into putting in a good word with Kikyo or telling them information so that they could please Kikyo somehow. Kikyo had a confidence about her that was radiant. She suppose that added to their problems when they began to fall apart. Kagome saw that confidence roll away with the tide. Kagome shook her head. "You're so inappropriate sometimes." She laughed.
Kikyo shrugged. "When you've had your name and life smeared across tabloids, you can't help but to stop caring so much how other people think of you." Both grew silent after she said this. Not wanting to input the awkward silence, Kikyo added quickly to her statement. "Speaking of Tashio's….Inuyasha was telling me about a project that I think is a perfect fit for you."
"Really?" Kagome asked curiously reaching for her own spoon and eating her mud pie. Her face had calmed down and she was grateful they moved on away from the topic she couldn't process with a clear mind.
"Yeah. He does some work with an orphanage near Survilliers that have these creative programs for the children that live there. One of them is a cooking program that helps teach the kids and brings in money for the children's Christmas and Birthday presents. I'm not sure on all the details but you can expect a call from him soon about it. He was asking me if he thought you would be into it and I told I told him you love kids and its up your alley. Maybe it's something you and Rin can do together as well." She said scrapping the bottom of her jar with her spoon. You owe me Inuyasha. She thought.
"Sounds cool." Kagome said intrigued and leaning against the table. It had been awhile since she had done anything charitable. It could possibly do something really good for her business as well as teach Rin about giving back to her community. Kagome looked over at the picture of the Yomi couple. "They would like that." She said with a soft smile.
Rin started asking more and more questions trying to stay involved in the conversation that the two was asking but couldn't understand everything. It made both Kagome and Kikyo happy to see her so animated that evening. Kikyo watched Rin's body movements as her aura pulsed with her emotions but it was still faint. Despite how big Rin had gotten she was reminded that in the world of demons, Rin was a little baby still. Her motor skills were amazing but that was no doubt because she was growing up with a human mother raising her like a human child. Demon pups could barely hold chopsticks at this stage as they were still breastfeeding from their mothers as they should be. They needed the nutrients for them to grow. She wondered if Rin was getting these nutrients? Kikyo wondered what else had Rin picked up as well. Was she tracking yet? She was just a pup but pups needed this skill to be able to find their way back to their mothers or pack should they get separated. It was a survival skill. She felt as if she missed out on so much with her niece and her heartstrings pulled. Kikyo began asking Rin questions about her nose and ears. Rin responded yes to some and no to most making her concerns grow.
Kagome picked up on what Kikyo was doing. She forcefully ate the dessert on her spoon wondering when Kikyo would let her "I know more than you do" nature explode onto the table. She listened as Kikyo spoke and watched with critical eyes at her sister. Kikyo sat back in her seat and paused looking over at Kagome ready to say something to her. Kagome started speaking before she could start. "Dr. Anna Barkley the hanyou specialist is coming to help Rin further along and tell me what all should be done to progress Rin's growth especially her demonic nature."
Kikyo nodded in agreement. "I heard she's really good and passionate about her work. Rin is in good hands with her." She simply said being honest. "She's expensive though."
"So?" Kagome frowned letting go of her spoon. "Rin needs her and Rin will get her."
"Just saying, Kags." Kikyo said crossing her arms over her chest. "Do you need help? I can help you."
"No, thank you." Kagome said bluntly. "I got it covered." Kagome looked into her semi empty jar before looking up. Her hand combed back her thick bangs. "I had to stop paying for certain things to make the money." Her voice came out quietly with burning questions on her tongue. Everyone knew this doctor was expensive and she knew Kikyo would say something. Kagome felt nervous having to revisit the decisions she made with the banks to cut payments to the shrine and sell it to the city. But that had been taken cared of now. By her sister. Who last time she checked, stopped paying on everything. "How did you pay for the house?" Kagome asked gripping her glass jar tightly in her hands.
Kikyo didn't want to give her surprise just yet so she told her a half-truth. "Honestly, it was a lot of hard work. I first picked up the brush again and did some work. My paintings sold but I needed more money. So I went back to do some work for Youkai Council."
Kagome opened her mouth to say something but this time Kikyo spoke. "Don't worry." She held up her hands. "It was nothing major. Mainly signing off on things and giving my opinion as a seasoned miko. They don't entirely trust me enough to get back into doing things so I just get faxes of documents and things to sign off on. They need my signature and I needed the cash. Right now though I'm helping Lady Inukimi with some things she has that need my skills. But luckily my art is doing better than I thought and making way more than I thought I would. Last month I sold one painting for fifty thousand francs. Within months I was able to gather the money to keep Father's shrine in the family name." She said emphasizing its importance to their father's legacy.
Kagome bit her lip and her eyes focused on feeding Rin her dessert because she was starting to make a mess. "Good. I think it's good YOU did it."
"What's that's supposed to mean?" Kikyo asked putting down her glass jar.
"Nothing...I'm just glad it was you that came to save it." Kagome said exhaling wiping Rin's chin with a napkin. Rin tried to fight her off wanting to do it herself. The emotions she was suppressing were in her throat now for unknown reasons. She didn't want to talk about any of this but focus on the good however something in her gut just wouldn't budge.
Kikyo glared and pushed her jar away. "I've been waiting for you to finally say something." Kikyo said getting right to it. She knew coming over here somethings would have to be spoke about.
"Not now. Not in front of Rin." Kagome growled between her teeth.
"My little niece who I helped you keep only for you to take to France, can go play in the back room while adults have this quiet conversation without shouting." Kikyo stated using a mocking tone knowing it would bait Kagome. She always knew which buttons to press with her little sister and she knew Kagome did as well. Kikyo reached for Rin with a smile and placed her down on the floor. Rin told her she was going to get some of her favorite toys and took off running to the back room forgetting about the rest of her dessert.
"I'm not doing this with you now." Kagome said pushing from the table and taking her and Rin's jars with her to the kitchen. "If you came here to bully me, you can find someone else because I'm not the one." Kagome said placing the jars in the sink and running dish water.
Kikyo stood up from her seat and picked up her jar. "Get off your high horse. No one is trying to bully you. Don't get mad because I'm just stating facts." She said walking to the kitchen and placing her jar in the running dish water.
"Why did you come here?" She asked aggressively turning off the water and looking at Kikyo with hard eyes trying to hold in her frustration and anger.
"Honestly, to see the rest of my family and help where I can." Kikyo leaned against the counter and crossing her arms over her chest defensively. "Especially after seeing how Rin is doing. I'm glad I came when I did."
"Don't you dare go there, Kikyo!" Kagome said holding her finger up warningly. Pink light was already tinting her eyes and her reiki was rising. She loved Rin with all her heart and she refused for anyone to tell her that she wasn't a good mother.
Kikyo rolled her eyes not even intimidated by her threats. Her own eyes began shining a faint blue as a protective measure just in case Kagome decided to step up to bat. "Too late, I'm here already." She countered and placed her hands on her slender hips. "I'm glad to be here too. Do you know how bad this could be if someone from the Youkai Council found out about Rin's demonic behavioral progression? They could take her from you by law!" Kikyo asked keeping her voice low knowing Rin would pick up on her mother's distress and the pitch in their words. She inhaled and her eyes went to brown again as she controlled her temper.
"I've been doing the best I can and Rin is getting help! I've been giving Rin my all since the day she was placed into my arms! I have been told that Rin is doing the best that she can but she is still struggling with PTSD and since I am not a demon mother there are services I can't provide! But you would know that if you were here or at least picked up the god damn phone." Kagome fired back turning on the sink again as she picked up her blue sponge to clean the dishes.
Kikyo bit the inside of her mouth. "Oh so all this is my fault. Ok…well if that's the case then maybe I would have been able to help if you didn't elope behind everyone's back to France with Rin and forget about us dealing with the aftermath of our family's death!" She spat as Kagome dropped a jar in the water. Kagome's closed her eyes and began inhaled through her nose feeling her anger on the surface. "Or did you forget about all of that? My bank account seems to remember your tuition payments, the lawyer fees, and the funeral costs." She said tapping her chin as Kagome wiped a plate vigorously with shaking hands. "Oh but I forgot, my alcoholism is to blame for everything, right? And you're one to talk about not answering the phone."
"You're such a bully!" Kagome yelled tossing in her sponge and hitting the edge of the sink. "You want me to believe you really would have come for Rin? Really? You didn't come when I asked you to come with me to France. I begged you! You knew what was happening!" Kagome said holding back tears that were beginning to fill her eyes. "I called you and you either barely picked up or stayed on the phone long enough to hold a conversation! And when we did speak on the phone, I'm pretty sure it was the sake I was always conversing with. You want me to really believe that your family is more important than the bottle now?" Kagome tossed her a look before moving to go wipe her hands dry. "Give me a break!"
Kikyo walked behind her. "Regardless of what you think of me, little sister…Yes I would have come. When have I never come to see you, mom, dad, grandpa and Souta? I have always been there! But look at you with your track shoes running off when things get hard!" She said pointing to Kagome with her index finger. "I came to see Souta when he was injured in the hospital. I was drunk then too but I was there." She said pointing to her chest. "I sobered up long enough to heal him and get him the hell out of there."
Kagome spun and looked at her with wide eyes. "What? Souta…"
Kikyo exhaled and stepped back taking a deep breath to calm down. "After you left…Souta got injured in a soccer game. He tore his Achilles heel. They were already saying this could ruin his college soccer career before the boy even started. I healed every ligament until the next day he could walk and they were calling it a miracle. But you would know that had you been there. If you weren't too busy hauling ass. Like I came to see Souta, I would have come too, Kagome!" Suddenly her phone rang breaking up their spat. Both jumped at the sudden noise.
Kagome gave her thanks to her whoever it was that called them. She really didn't want to have this conversation with her sister. She had just got her back and she was going through all these other things in her life. She didn't want this extra weight. Too much was going and the time and place wasn't right. She calmed herself and brought her reiki down. She went to the back to check on Rin who had pulled out almost everything she owned. Rin's aura pulsed telling her she needed help using the potty now.
Kikyo was going to ignore it until the tone told her who was calling. She walked over to her purse and dug inside angrily. She really wished she didn't burn her cigarettes now. She needed one or maybe the whole pack. She reached for her phone and looked to see the caller had hung up but left a voicemail. She was about to put away her phone when a text came through.
Come to the office. Now!
Kikyo looked at the late hour on her phone before biting her lip. Not knowing if she should cuss out the recipient and risk decapitation or just do as she was told. It had to be pretty big if she was getting a call and a message so late in the evening. She placed her phone back in her bag and dug around looking for her subway card before she decided to just catch a cab near the main street where they liked to frequent.
Kagome came with Rin in her arms and having finished helping her use the potty. Kagome placed her on the ground allowing Rin to run back to the room to get her toy and come back so she could show her Yoyo. Kagome watched Kikyo pick up her purse and place her items back inside.
Kikyo looked up and held her arms up before allowing them to swing down and hit her hips. "I got to go, Kags." She spoke softly not giving any more details. She ran her fingers through her hair. This wasn't what she had wanted to happen. She knew she may have come at her sister a bit too hard and she regretted doing so but not her words. Kikyo also didn't want to leave but desired to finish what was started once and for all. She wasn't sure if they would ever have the opportunity to hash it out or even set where they stood. She was getting tired though and ready to move on and she knew her sister would like to as well.
Rin came running forward happily with a doll and her mother's clean yellow cardigan before sliding to a stop at seeing Kikyo holding her purse. Her eyes grew wide and her little chest began to heave. She started to whimper and she dropped her toys to her feet. She rushed over to Kikyo's legs and pulled frantically while signing for her to stay and keep playing with her. She kept growling out her name and tears were coming to her eyes.
"Rin!" Kikyo said bending down to hug the little pup and stop her claws from tearing her clothes.
Kagome leaned against the wall and sighed heavily knowing this was going to be another hard night. "Rin had developed a severe case of separation anxiety." She spoke lowly before walking over and squatting down with them. "I can't do this." Kagome muttered already preparing for the long night of great tears of anguish and guttural wails.
"But she was fine leaving at the hospital." Kikyo said pulling Rin into her arms and rocking her while brushing her short hair back with her fingers.
Kagome shrugged. "Maybe it's because you're…family and you're here. I don't know." Kagome said as her heart began to break.
Kikyo rubbed Rin's head soothingly thinking of what to do in this situation. She looked at her sister seeing the tired lines on her face. Kikyo was not there and had not been there to know how deep everything had gotten for Kagome and she acknowledged that fact. Things may be messed up between them but she did not want her sister to suffer or her niece for that matter. She reached out to hold her sister's hand tightly in her grasp.
Kagome looked down for a moment in a daze feeling her emotions all over the place. It had been a long time since she felt like this. Old thoughts and feelings with distant painful memories had come up threatening to suffocate her and she was struggling to push it all back down in the box she stuffed it in. She needed her strength and tears would not help her no matter how many of them spilled down her face. She had to be strong. If not for herself, than for Rin. Kagome looked down to see her sister's hand hold hers and she turned her hand so she could hold on too. She squeezed back tightly and inhaled taking her sister's comfort.
"We need to establish a routine." Kikyo advised gently. Her memory was a little foggy about dealing with young demon children. Rin may be half but she had very strong instincts that no doubt were at work and used as defense mechanisms. An idea crossed her mind at the thought. Rin needed to feel as if pack was always returning to this place she called home. Her home had to feel welcome and surrounded by pack scent. Kikyo picked Rin up and took her to the closet. She pulled out her jacket and handed the heavy garment to Rin. She looked Rin in the eyes with a very serious expression. "Rin…this is my jacket and I love it very much." She said hoping Rin understood her words. "I need you to look after it ok? I'll be back Thursday to get it for sure, understand? You have to watch it for me."
Rin's head nodded as she leaned forward hugging Kikyo and burying her claws into her hair. She could feel her skin become wet and she patted Rin on the back soothingly. Kikyo kissed Rin many times before pulling her off of her body and handing her over to her mom. Rin was still crying and turned to lay her head on her mother's shoulder. "We need to figure out how to make Rin feel like shes living in a pack environment." Kikyo spoke lowly reaching out to rub Rin's back with her nails.
Kagome nodded not sure what that meant but happy to take any suggestions. "The doctor comes on the twenty seventh of the month at three. You should come too." She said lowly.
Kikyo pulled her purse tightly on her shoulder. "I'll definitely be there." She looked at Rin and sighed. "Make sure she calls me every day at three so we can set a routine. I promise… I will pick up the phone."
Kagome nodded her head in agreement but not understanding how it would work if Rin wouldn't talk to her. It would really just be Kikyo talking and Rin doing whatever with the phone. But she trusted her sister knew what she was doing. She trained after all to deal with demons. "We can do that and set up some time when you can spend time with Rin yourself."
Kikyo smiled. "I'd like that." The awkward silence filled the space between them and the heavy conversation they were having rested on both of their shoulders with the emotions that came with them. Kikyo nodded and turned walking to the door with Kagome following holding Rin tightly in her arms. Kikyo's jacket hung from Rin's little hands over Kagome's arm as Rin's crying began to swell in sound. Kikyo opened the door to let herself out when Kagome placed her hand on her shoulder. Kikyo turned and Kagome stepped forward attempting a half hung without crushing Rin in the process.
"In case I didn't say it. Thanks for coming." Kagome whispered as Kikyo held her back. Tears were in her own eyes as Rin's emotions began to bleed over into her aura and mix with the hefty emotions of despair she felt from the visit to her past.
Kikyo sighed keeping everything in. "Always." She said with truthfulness in her heart. She pulled away and kissed Rin and her mother on the cheek. "I'll see you soon, Rin." She said as Rin sniffled and nodded. Kikyo reached to wipe her eyes. "I promise ok. Yoyo is just a call away."
Kagome bounced Rin. "We are going to call Yoyo first thing in the morning ok." She said looking down at her daughters red puffy tear stricken face.
Rin didn't say anything but just laid there resting her head on her mother's shoulder. Kikyo swallowed slowly and stepped away out of the open door. "See you ladies later." She made her way to the stairs and began walking hearing her sister's goodbye echo in the hall around her. Kikyo made it to the large entrance and the doorman opened the door for her as she exited the building. The cool breeze coming through hit her warm skin and she exhaled letting out everything that was inside. The night sky was cloudy hiding all the stars and moon from the world. The lamp posts were on guiding people down the sidewalks towards their destinations. Frustration was filling her lungs and her stomach felt uneasy. She face palmed her cheek and looked around stomping her foot at her own actions. "Shit!" She said placing her hands on her hips. A couple across the street walking their dog looked at her with concern but she paid them no mind. Her mind was a mess now.
A dark fancy car pulled up in front of her and she glared at it. The windows were tinted black all around so she couldn't see who it was inside of the vehicle. Her fingers began to glow blue before the back window rolled down revealing the person to her gaze. "Lady Inukimi?" She asked incredulously. "How did you know I was here!"
Her driver got out and held the door out for her. Lady Inukimi rolled up her window causing Kikyo to roll her eyes at her rudeness. Kikyo walked around the fancy car and got in the seat with much attitude. This was proof that Lady Inukimi was keeping tabs on her and most likely her family. But, something big must have happened for the demoness to come to her instead of just waiting for her to get to the office. Kikyo watched their driver close the door and move back into his seat. The car was started and soon they pulled off onto the road. The demoness sat with shades on and held out a manila folder out for her to take. "I doubted your speed to make it to the office in this century so I came to you. As for the how I knew where you were…irrelevant." She spoke lowly looking out the windows as if they were just going for a leisurely drive.
Kikyo reached for the folder and frowned at the demoness. Her reiki energy died and blew harshly at the situation. "What is this?" She asked looking over at Lady Inukimi. Her face was set in a frown wanting to get to the core of this impromptu meeting.
The stoic demoness looked over at Kikyo and a small smile came to her lips. "That my dear is up to you to decide." She turned her gaze to look out the window watching the scenery move by as they drove. "Where should we drop you off dear?"
"The park up on Rue Fresnel." She stated while opening the folder and read in the darkness with a calculating expression until she came to pictures following behind the paperwork of statements. Her mouth opened and she held her hand to her lips lost for words. She could not believe what she was witnessing. She wanted to know things but this…this was just too much. She looked to Lady Inukimi who donned a sultry smirk. "W-why are you showing me this?" She asked as if the wind had been knocked out of her. She closed the folder and held it up.
The car steadily moved with traffic taking them not very far at all to her desired destination. Lady Inukimi looked towards the window searching for words. "My son trusts you to an extent. I could have shown him this but he would have raged at me for getting involved in his affairs and I believe his temper would rise at the embarrassment knowing that I know this little...secret." She looked over at Kikyo as they came to a stop in front of her desired destination. People were walking all over the place lost in Paris's romantic ambience and history with the glowing gaze of the Eiffel Tower glittering in the distance. The driver got out and opened her door indicating that she should get out now. Kikyo's heart was in her throat as she climbed out with the help of the chauffeur while holding onto the folder with a strangled hold. He closed the door and went back to his seat. The door rolled down a bit as Lady Inukimi spoke. "The ball is in your court now, Kikyo. I do hope you use this information…wisely." She said before the windows rolled up and the horn honked.
Kikyo stepped back among the crowd of people holding onto the folder and her purse with wide eyes. The night was a hell of a night and if there was ever a time for her to drink it would be now. Her nerves were all over the place and now her anger was toppling above it all. "Damn you Kimi!" She said finding herself cursing a second time that night.
All the people rushed by to get to the Paris attractions and love underneath the cloudy skies. She inhaled and looked around searching for the nearest subway entrance before making a beeline to one. Kikyo wanted to help but for her own reasons. Certainly she did not think she would find out anything like this. If Sesshomaru found out what she knew now, she was sure her esophagus would be ripped from her throat. Kikyo possibly thought she would have to prepare herself for a battle. The night seemed to be going to hell on a rocket and fast.
The taste for something to bite back swirled in her mouth. She stopped in her tracks and reached for a coin in her purse. She held it out in her palm before closing her hand and shaking it inside. "Heads for a drink, tails for a smoke." She said before tossing the coin up and leaving her evening fate to chance.
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