Hello Snowflakes!
I have returned after the holiday break but there is also Christmas coming so please pay attention to my profile page for expected times for updates to my stories. I will be making a facebook and posting that on my profile page as well so I can connect with my readers since I have bonded and have even received pictures of kids and pets! *clutches heart from all the cuteness*
Thank you all so much for your kind wishes and I hope everyone is having an amazing and festive holiday!
Side note...No one caught my hella Disney inserted Easter eggs in Chapter 28! I made references to The Aristocats and Princess and the Frog. (proceeds to hold all Disney video tapes and cry)
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Thank you Chapter 29 Reviewers
NarukoSon – I know! My best friend used to work for Target during the holidays. She hated life during those times. As to your review, we will see where things go very soon. Kagome seems to be on the road of enlightenment. Thanks for taking the time out to review love!
Tai – All your answers is about to be answered in this chapter except for the bit about Kaguya. Now you have some understanding as to her background which does affect people's personalities. Not saying its and excuse but I do hope you have now some insight to where Kaguya stands on things. But anyway…here is the update! Can't wait to hear what you think!
angeleyes20876 – Thank you, thank you! Yes so much was given that last chapter! I'm glad you see the growth in the characters and the subtle changes being made in their lives. The sister's have made an attempt to work out their issues but clearly Rome wasn't built in a day. As for the dynamics of the relationships…it still up in the air. :D Muahahaha!
Souta's thoughts on everything will be much later. Little by little I want growth to happen as organically as possible in this fic and not force things. Obviously having her talk to Souta now would be forced. And I see Kaguya gets no love from the audience. Lol (sweat drops.) I hope you enjoy this next chapter as it is right up your alley!
KEdakumi – Thank you so much for your review and I hope to hear from you in the future! *Proceeds to hand you a slice of cake and a cup of tea.*
Alexis Night – Right! But that is our nature….I've seen important decisions made over paper, scissors, rock… Loved your humorous review as always dear! And don't worry! More Kag/Sess time is coming!
Danielle596 – I know! I just leave you guys hanging all the time! And yes Kaguya doesn't understand these concepts. It's hard to understand things when you have had no exposure to it as clearly shown by her mother. But who knows what could happen…
Wolfgirl09 – Here is the update love! I hope it didn't drive you crazy over the holidays!
Zaacna – Addiction is a powerful drug…really you can only take things a day at a time. And you are very perceptive of everyone's actions and relationships! I have to watch you too…you might ruin my plot. *Glares into your soul.* But kudos to you for picking up on these little details because I do put them in purposely. And I like you can't wait to get to the part where things really get hashed out! Thank you love for reading and responding. Can't wait for your feedback!
Youkai55 – Yep and yep to your first two statements. And everyone needs someone to digest things with especially if they impact another person's life. It is natural for you to talk to a person who will experience the fallout of your actions. Kikyo wants to keep Kagome/Rin safe. The way to do that would be to let them in on whats going on around them….but that is also risky as you pointed out. Everything else will be answered in this chapter! As for Shiori and Shippo…we will see them later. Lol
kagomeLove2 – I know! And this one is long too! Yes I too enjoy stories where Kikyo and Kagome have a fundamental realistic bond not destroyed by shared affections for men. Women… we are better than that! And I laughed at "Bold and the Beautiful." Maybe I should do a never ending soap opera featuring Inuyasha characters.
Nyght elf – Thank you so much! And yes…they only scraped the surface of their issues. This chapter will answer a lot of your questions so…here you go! Tell me what you think!
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Chapter 30: If You Can't Stand the Heat…
"Good job Rin!" Kagome and Inutashio applauded loudly watching as Rin held up an almost empty bottle of Dior cologne for men in triumph. Her hand waved it about enjoying the sound of it sloshing around inside the glass. Her petite nose wiggled and she sneezed loudly from the scent several times as it was too strong for her young sensitive palate. Her smile was bright and wide despite the many sniffles coming from her nose and the audible sneezes that rocked her tiny frame.
The morning sun shined through the large den windows of the Tashio informal living room called their "pack den". The big bulky dark wood pieces of furniture had been moved around the enormous room against the white walls to create more space for Rin's continued development lessons. Rin's nose had been on a mission since eight that early morning searching for various scents around the room. The adults were hoping that she would get acclimated into using her basic instincts to help her perform menial yet survival tasks. Kagome had arrived early that morning at the request of the royal couple to help further along Rin's progress. The great Lord had an idea to try using space and comfort spots to help Rin feel secure enough to increasingly rely on her instincts and it seemed to be working from where Kagome could see.
Kagome sat up excitedly watching Rin perform more demon behavioral tendencies than usual. She had been told by the doctor to document all of Rin's behaviors including details regarding her environment and the people interacting with her on a daily basis. The doctor wanted a complete foundation of Rin's background before her arrival when she would give additional support and treatment for Rin's anxiety and hopefully her speech. No one could tell how much Rin's speech was affected by the harm done to her throat by the water she swallowed during the tsunami or the deep psychological trauma she suffered afterwards but, they hoped to find answers as well as provide constant comfort to the little pup to grow organically healthy.
Kagome looked over to her left to see Inutashio clapping still loudly with his large clawed hands and making very primal sounds with a huge amount of base in his voice. He was relaxed sitting on the floor with his long hair drifting lazily to the side of his face. The sun shined through the windows highlighting his hair and bright eyes. She had gotten over the shock of seeing the couple dressed so…comfortably to say the least. Inutashio sat on the floor with grey sweat pants rolled up to his calves and a plain white T-shirt covering his torso. His fangs shined in the sunlight as he praised Rin who bounced on her feet excitedly waving the object around while covering her nose with her tiny left hand. His feet were bare and he laughed loudly looking and sounding like a fabled werewolf enjoying the morning sunshine.
"Excellent Rin!" Responded Lord Inutashio who watched with humor as the little pup raced towards him to give him back his item that she had successfully found. He held his hand out and she placed the cologne in his large hands before clapping for herself and sneezing again loudly earning her a pat on the back.
Kagome sat back on the couch with lots of pride in her heart. She continued to watch her pup explore around the room and find things related to the people she loved. Today they were improving on Rin's ability to scent track since she had learned it was a vital skill for her little one to have as a pup should she get separated from the safety of her pack. They started first with natural scents found on hairbrushes, pillows, clothes, and blankets first belonging to her mother. Rin could find her mother's scent anywhere and rarely had to be guided by her mother's aura. They had sense moved on to the Tashio family's scent under the influence of the eldest Tashio's argument that Rin needed strong demon pack mates in her life for protection as well as for pack health. Rin had many demon friends but no demon pack mates which would frustrate her as she got older and experienced circumstances that came with being half-demon. Kagome didn't want to impose but the couple seemed to be set on the matter. After watching Rin run around with her nose and butt in the air a few times searching excitedly for Izayoi's favorite robe and Inutashio's jacket, she could only agree.
The clock was pushing ten and Rin was able to effectively find and distinguish pack mates by nose only. Rin would run to her mother's lap and close her eyes while Inutashio switched items out and moved things around for her to find. She could confidently find Inutashio's and Izayoi's scent quite well. Inutashio began spraying his cologne in the air to gently mask the scents to teach Rin to concentrate on a specific scent without being thrown off by overpowering smells. However this was better said than done, as Rin just sought after the cologne itself choosing to find the problem rather than the subtle scents she couldn't smell. Of course they made no big deal out of it and were at least able to understand Rin's current level of development regarding her senses.
Kagome looked at Lord Inutashio as he picked up her daughter and sat her down in his lap and nuzzled her underneath her chin. Kagome sighed happily to see Rin nudging him back with her nose and making small sounds while grasping the sides of his face. Watching her primal response to Inutashio had her thinking about her sister's words. Kagome had thought about Kikyo's point that she made in the kitchen when they were in the midst of their argument the other night. She would disagree with everything Kikyo said except for something that she knew held weight in the argument. Kikyo had ties to the Youkai Council in Japan and thus knew things she didn't. When Kikyo spoke of Rin's current demonic behavioral level and the Youkai Council's possible reactions to her current situation, it frightened her more than she would admit to anyone. She thought when she had moved to France, she had at least put distance and time between them. Mainly she hoped to get away from Rin's hurtful bigot relatives and the negative people that wanted to harm her small family. But it had come as a splash of cold water from her sister that this was far from reality and that the Youkai Council was always watching.
Kagome looked to her hands feeling an uncomfortable tightness in her belly from the thought. Sleep was almost nonexistent that night as she lay in bed thinking of more resources she could pull and the cost of those resources. It had scared her that evening to think that they would take Rin away on the grounds that Rin's demon nature wasn't being nurtured to up demon standards. Kagome had tried getting doctors, therapists, teachers, human behaviorists, demon behaviorists, books, etc. to help but it could only do so much for a little hanyou pup who wanted to do things at her own pace...in her own time which was her God given right. Also despite the changing of the times, hanyou studies, medicine, and research was still at its infant stages with only a handful of doctors and professionals providing real life assistance to parents with hanyou children. She had literally tried any and everything at this point that was within budget. She was at the end of her rope. If this famed American hanyou specialist didn't come through then she didn't know what else to do. This frightened her to the marrow of her bones.
She couldn't fathom the agony and grief that would come having her child taken from her based on circumstances beyond her control. It brought her near to tears in the dark of the night at the visual picture that her active imagination was giving to her. She relived reading her Tsuki's will and crumbling to the floor in grief. Then having Rin placed into her hands by Kikyo in front of the Youkai Court only to be taken away by the cruel people that was Rin's pompous arrogant relatives. Her heart broke into tiny pieces already feeling the hint of loss of losing a child that she considered above everything as her own. It was enough to make her heart leap out of her chest and tears to slide down her face into her pillow. That night she lay with Rin tucked tightly to her chest praying that it would never come to pass.
"Here you go dear."
Kagome blinked from her morbid thoughts and looked up to see Izayoi dressed in a long floral pink dress bent in front of her. She placed a tray of fruit, bread, and crepes on a small table in front of them and moved to get the tea kettle and cups she brought with her on the little cart in the hallway. Izayoi was speaking lightly while giggling at her husband who rolled on the carpeted floor playfully with the little girl. She poured Kagome a cup of hot tea and then herself a cup. Kagome watched Izayoi's trained graceful hands delicately handle the creamer and honey jars with care placing them on the table as well. Izayoi never ceased to amaze Kagome. The woman had servants to run to her beck and call but Izayoi seemed to be set on doing everything herself if she could. Kagome thankfully picked up her cup and blushed at the sound of her rumbling tummy. She forgot she gave Rin just a small bowl of cereal and neglected herself in her haste to get there on time.
Izayoi placed her cup and saucer on the table gently turning her attentions to Kagome. "She's going to be just fine." Izayoi said sitting down elegantly next to Kagome and placing her hand on top of hers. She gave her hand a reassuring squeeze followed by a calming supportive pat on top.
"Thank you for this." Kagome spoke lowly as Izayoi naturally pulled her into her arms. Her scent was all around Kagome who leaned into her hold and felt like warm butter melting by the second. Something about Izayoi reminded her so much of her mom that it hurt some days. She couldn't help the thought of distancing herself from Izayoi because she reminded her of the tragic memories but then her selfish desire to be embraced by nostalgia would draw her back into Izayoi's hold. She didn't know when their relationship shifted to become one of great familiarity but it happened and Izayoi wasn't holding back or taking no for an answer. Clearly her mate felt the same way as he rolled onto his belly and allowed Rin to pin him down with her petite body.
Izayoi rubbed Kagome's back soothingly before letting her go. "Of course!" Izayoi leaned away but still held on to Kagome's hand providing her support as she looked at her mate with humorous eyes. "We're here for you. We're family now."
Kagome inhaled at the word tasting the sweet and yet bitter taste of it on her tongue. It was a beautiful addition into the list of global languages but a heavy one for her. Kagome looked on the walls to see pictures of the Inu family all around tucked into gold and black frames from portraits, paintings, amateur photographs, etc. Family was clearly everything to the Tashio's and not one person was left out. Images were everywhere throughout the house yet in this room…the den they called it…was decorated with more intimate moments. Kagome could see one black and white vintage photograph of little Shiori standing next to her tall dad on the beach holding his hand looking up at him with adoration. A colorful photograph was to the side depicting Sesshomaru glaring at his brother who stood proudly in front of some retro red vehicle from the nineteen sixty's. An acrylic painting of Izayoi in a big deep magenta ball gown holding hands with a regally dressed Lady InuKimi donned in silver hung high on another wall with 'IT' initials on the bottom. Another framed picture had all three adult pups standing in traditional Japanese clothing next to their parents. "Family." Kagome muttered unaware she had voiced it out loud while looking around the room.
"Of course! And around here, we take care of each other." Izayoi looked to her mate who was avoiding Rin's little bites to his pointed ears yet still tussling with her on the floor encouraging her rough behavior. Izayoi looked to Kagome and shrugged. "But every now and then even Family can be a bit hurtful." She grumbled as Rin got hold of her prize and caused the great Inu to yelp in shock due to the surprise sharpness of her tiny baby fangs.
"Rin-" Kagome started but Izayoi patted her knee to calm her. She looked to see Inutashio actually laughing while tickling the pup to get her off of him. It looked painful to her but Inutashio didn't seem to be fazed by it after the initial shock. Eventually Rin let go and rolled onto the floor breathing heavily from her play session. Inutashio lifted her into the air and held her there while she let out broken sounds of laughter and looked down at him. Rin began coughing as the strain of her vocal chords finally caught up to her and Inutashio set her down to get her some juice. Rin ran over to her small cup and quickly chugged down the orange juice allowing little drops to run down the corners of her mouth and down her chin.
Inutashio barked with laughter as she pulled back from her cup and sighed happily with a smack of her lips. She placed her cup down on the table making sure it was safe before turning to face him again. With the back of her hand she wiped her mouth and rushed back over ready for a second round. Kagome watched laughing along with Izayoi as Rin belly flopped on Inutashio who pretended to be captured by her weight. Both spoke in a language she didn't understand but her own connection with Rin was helping her gather information about what was being communicated. Rin was so warm and happy that morning. She immediately went back into playing their old game of tackle, wobble, and roll.
Sesshomaru walked into the room startling Kagome a bit with his presence. Kagome looked up to see the demon dressed in a black work suit and white shirt tucked underneath. He casually strolled into the living room with a portfolio and car keys in his hands. He placed his keys on the small table near the entrance to the room but kept the Manilla portfolio tight in his grasp. He surveyed the room obviously looking at how chaotic it looked with calculating golden eyes. All the furniture was moved out of the way and was replaced with random objects and toys scattered around the carpeted den area. He walked over to Izayoi and bent to her head level. He nudged her with his nose in greeting but said nothing. Izayoi smiled and patted his cheek affectionately with a bright morning hello. He stood up nodded at her briefly before looking to his father rolling on the floor with Rin. Sesshomaru shook his head at his sire's antics before his name was called.
"Son, save your father!" Inutashio said as Rin attempted to tickle him with her little claws.
Sesshomaru shook his head denying his request and with a stoic expression continued watching his father get assaulted by the hands of a young pup. He had come over knowing Kagome would be here and it would be an opportune moment to catch her before his life began to get a little more hectic with Kaguya's daunting wedding arrangements as well as his workload. He turned his head to Kagome and spoke briefly capturing her attentions. "Miko, a word."
Kagome looked up at the tall Inu watching him walk towards the double doors leading back into the hallway and stand not giving her an option to decline. "Sure." She said scooting forward out of Izayoi's hold and standing. She pulled down the hem of her blue dress properly. Her knees felt stiff from sitting so long and little tingles flooded her nerves rushing blood to circulate in her legs. Kagome had a few things to say to him as well and now looked to be a good time to do so while Rin was preoccupied with trusted adults. She walked over to Sesshomaru with curiosity upon her face.
Izayoi and Inutashio shared a look with raised eyebrows but said nothing. Izayoi couldn't help the smile on her face as she watched the two disappear. She opened her arms wide inviting Rin to come to her. Rin saw her and quickly dug her way out of Inutashio's hold and ran to Izayoi on shaky legs. Izayoi smiled widely and lifted Rin into her arms. She kissed her on her cheek and sat her down in her lap to feed her a little bit of breakfast treats. "Yes, all of you are definitely family!"
Kagome walked further into the hallway and downwards with Sesshomaru. Both were taking slow measured steps until they reached the porch. Sesshomaru opened the door a little wider for them both to step through so that they could go outside. Kagome blinked her eyes a bit at the bright sunshine filtering in through the screen that stretched all around the porch. The view of one of Izayoi's gardens could be seen shining under the morning light. Bright yellow daisies and pink roses could be seen in a patterned design with light green and brown bushes lining the pathways. Already the trees in the distance were changing colors announcing the arrival of fall. The chill of the wind blew through ruffling a few leaves. Kagome smiled and rubbed her arms to warm them before turning to face the demon. "I got the response from Dr. Florence." She started. "We have an appointment here at your family's estate on the twenty sixth at ten in the morning."
Sesshomaru looked down at the short woman who stood with her feet apart and her arms crossed over her chest looking up with serious eyes. Her hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail with brown eyes fixed upon him stating her business. Her sweet signature scent filtered into his nose providing him with information he was sure she would find mortifying. She would soon ovulate and be primed for conceiving. He took in Kagome's scent feeling calmer now that his Apex was on the decline and his control over his loins was strengthening. He had to put distance between him and single women around him especially those on their menses as it called to his instincts to mate. After all, it was during this time that the woman's body was changing and releasing pheromones from her uterine wall. Soon after, the female would enter into her peak where she was most fertile. The desire to knot inside of a woman worthy of his loins was on the decline...or so he hoped. Luckily, he found no woman to be attractive and alluring to his instincts other than the woman he so randomly thought of in the throes of his ruts with Kaguya. A shiver went down him that lifted his side lips into a sneer before his expression hardened again. His body and demonic nature refused Kaguya and by the week he was becoming more irritable having not had a proper release. He took in the woman before him seeing her looking to him ready to say what else was on her mind. "I am aware of these details and we will adjust accordingly for that day. Everyone will be present." He handed her the manila folder he had been holding for her to take.
"Doctor Florence also mentioned that her services had been paid in full already." Kagome said trying to convey her disapproval of his actions for paying for Doctor Florence's visitation and service cost. Granted it was a hefty sum but she could do it. She hated people doing things for her because they felt she was inept to do them. The Higurashi pride didn't allow such actions to go unaccounted for. Her hands took the folder as she continued to make eye contact with Sesshomaru. "I could have handled it you know." .
"Sure you could." He countered and left it at that not interested in entering a debate that meant very little to him. Capturing her attention to the matter he wanted to speak on, he pointed with his sharp talon at the manila folder encouraging her to open it. "I've adjusted a few things on my menu based on our last correspondence. What you have in your hands is my completed selection of tasting dishes and wine pairings. This is my final submission."
Kagome bit her lip to keep her comments about her lack of want of the Tashio financial assistance inside her mouth. Her brain switched gears to look at the paper with the list and detailed notes about his dishes and wine pairings. Her business hat went on and the chef inside of her came to the forefront of her mind. She had already received what she thought was his final menu earlier but clearly he adjusted it to compliment a few of her choices that she mentioned briefly to him in an email she sent. She had sent him a review of what her team had put together and both were adjusting accordingly to the menu offerings that the other proposed for restaurant week. It was quite intricate and showed his simple style in tastes, textures, and scents. It spoke a lot of about his cooking personality in that he valued the essence of the ingredients versus adding robust seasonings. A level of respect went to him as his clear training and/or passion for cooking was showing visibly before her. Her eyes combed over his menu slowly while thinking of her menu items. She flipped the page to read his notes and see the visual of his menu that he was creating for their guests. It was all well prepared and very clean.
"This is fantastic." She muttered not interested in lying about his craftsmanship. His food seemed to compliment hers quite well. His selection of al le carte menu items focused on bringing out the tastes of his ingredients and highlighting features on his regular menu. His food complimented her complex choices to deconstruct dishes and give a new perspective to familiar simple ingredients featured in both of their seasonal menus. The idea they had settled on was that they wanted guests to be able to start at either restaurant and go to the next restaurant in a fluid transition that showed off the many different ways to enjoy a common ingredient they both featured like salmon, beef, artichokes, and strawberries.
The menu was designed to mimic that of time travel. If you started or ended at his restaurant then you got to taste these ingredients in their decadent form with highlighted sentiments like the sweetness of a French strawberry in the winter or the fresh taste of salmon picked from the cool spring waters in the heart of France along the Loire River. His menu was designed to make you nostalgic and to remember the past. Kagome's was different in that her menu broke down these ingredients and made them into different dishes. Those artichokes were not going to be forgotten side dishes or seen as odd green vegetables. They were going to be used as main headliners and placed strategically in dishes meant to make the guests question their thoughts on the construction of food. The ingredients she used were still recognizable but they were being utilized in various forms representing change found in the future.
Kagome flipped his menu back and looked up at him with a smirk. "Did you hire someone to do this?" She jabbed slyly up at him. It was hard to wrap her mind around the idea that the pretentious prick of a prince could actually be a hard-working and somewhat caring individual. Especially one who indulged in food prepped in a kitchen. She looked him over taking in his strong physique and imagining him in a chef's suit or apron. It was more comical than it was realistically conceivable. "Come on. Admit it Sesshomaru. What PR firm you paid did this for you?" She said dropping all honorifics. "Did Chef Savoy help you? Did you watch the Cooking Channel on Youtube?" She asked waving his portfolio back and forth in the air.
Sesshomaru's uncaring expression turned into a slow burning glare directed down at her person. "You Higurashi women are maddening." He simply stated refusing to be baited into her jests.
Kagome laughed at this. Her voice came out like singing bells as she thought about the conversation she shared with her sister regarding the stuck up prince. "Awe, don't be so grouchy." She said moving to sit down on a tufted white couch to look over his menu in peace. Rin was safe inside and no doubt enjoying her time with the Tashio's. The smile was fixed permanently on her lips as she looked up at him from her seat. "You haven't seen anything yet. My sister is far better at digs than I am. Now she can drive you crazy if you make her mad enough!"
"Hm." Sesshomaru stated shoving both of his hands in his pant pockets. He had witnessed firsthand being verbally assaulted by both women and he found them truly to be quite fierce with their choice of insults as well as the loud tone they used when expressing their displeasure. He looked at the younger Higurashi sister as she pulled her hair to one side of her shoulder and comfortably sat back to look over his packet. Sesshomaru turned around to leave her alone as his fingers combed through the front of his hair to push it back behind his pointed ears.
Kagome sat quietly with her mind shifting in the tranquil space watching him leave with a thoughtful expression on her face. Despite how disengaged he tried to seem, Sesshomaru did care in his own way and Kagome could see it. She looked down at his work and knew very well he had done this all by himself. It did deserve praise due to its elegance and thoughtful compilation that didn't just boast his menu offerings but hers as well. It was a lovely gesture and even she couldn't deny it brought warmth to her spirit.
She had never had so much help in her life before. Even something as simple as this menu change was going to mean a world of a difference for her. This meant more visibility and more income for everyone. A weight she had been holding for so long was ounce by ounce slowly vanishing into thin air. Just a few nights ago she was in the back alley of her restaurant having an emotional breakdown about her life and her pup. She was praying and crying for relief because she was so tired and didn't know how to help Rin, her staff, and ultimately herself. No one understood the depth of caring she had for those around her. She always took in account other problems and tried her best to help them work through it while putting herself on the back burner.
No one knew all that she shouldered and the people she carried in her heart. No one knew about Shippo's financial situation and how she slipped in his check extra money so he could go to school and have money left over to hopefully enjoy his young life. No one knew about Jac's previous anxiety about his coworkers' feelings and thoughts regarding his sexuality. He had lost his previous job in the states because his boss fired him having learned that he was gay. Bankoutsu was very protective of all of his brothers and of course asked her if he could audition for a spot in her kitchen. Jac was an amazing chef and had skills and a wit about him that she couldn't just let go into the streets. She told him as long as he continued doing amazing work in her kitchen he could dress like Rupaul at the Lady Gaga and Muppets Holiday Spectacular for all she cared. (As long as he wore a hair net in the kitchen and committed to proper kitchen dress code standards for safety and health regulations.) No one knew about Miroku's falling out with his father and how his mother's death contributed to his paranoia of serious relationships. Miroku used the facade of jokes and laughter to hide the anger he felt for his father's abandonment. They had met by chance and she had sheltered him and given him a place in her little family. She knew Miroku would make a wonderful husband and father to kids someday. He was far more nurturing and loving than he realized and she hoped Sango and her family would bring that out of him. She caught on to their little attraction in the kitchen and the banter used to mask their interests. She just hoped her time out of the kitchen would bring the two closer together.
She shouldered a lot and wanted the best for everyone. She just didn't know how to get there herself and almost got lost in the process. In an odd way she had become the matriarch of her own little collected family. But now she knew she needed to fight for what she wanted now. There was only so much Miroku and her friends could do in the past. She thought she reached rock bottom when things began to change. Who knew a fallen ice-cream cone could do so much good in her life? Now suddenly everything seemed to be getting better by the day. She breathed easier and had a little bit more wiggle room to do more for herself and for her pup. It was strained and maybe fragile but she managed to rebuild a connection with her sister. She was reminded of how much she loved her sister and how she truly wanted Kikyo and even Souta back into her life again. So many positive changes were happening and she knew it had everything to do with the Tashio's especially the two men that entered her life.
Kagome sighed and tilted her head back to look at the creamy white ceiling. Another breeze blew through the screen brushing her bangs against her forehead. The portfolio in her lap was temporarily forgotten as she got lost in her thoughts. She had never had men do so much for her. It was strange. She was use to helping others and running a tight ship. She relied on her ability to be a hard-ass and possessing a very aggressive demeanor to get through the work day. This was a man's world and she had found out young that she had to play twice as hard to get ahead and be taken seriously especially in this industry. Famous kitchens were not for the weak at heart and were very competitive to join. She was always praised for her ability for being tough and resilient. But now that she had a break, she found it odd not having to be so tough all the time. She found this happening more and more as the months crept by. Inuyasha and Sesshomaru seem to go out of their way to make things easier for her and for once she found herself looking at herself differently.
Miroku pestered her about her situation with men. In the past he would get onto her case about her lack of involvement with the opposite sex. Now after the conversation at the restaurant dinner table, he never mentioned it again. It was odd even for him to just give up like that. He was the one after all that said a long time ago he would marry her if she was still single by the age of thirty five just so all of her "feminine wiles" didn't go to waste. He also cheekily mentioned how she would be in her prime during this time and he was curious to see what that would translate to in bed. A hard slap to the back of his neck made him think otherwise. Miroku had given up now but his last words regarding the Tashio men mingled with that of her sister's. The recent conversations and jokes about her affections for the Tashio men did bring up one thing for her that she was happy to conclude despite the confusion.
She felt this new sensation of femininity in her that she hadn't felt in a long time since her younger years in cooking school. She was so use to being a mom and a boss that she completely neglected that before she was all these things…she was a woman. A healthy, young, vibrant woman who just so happen to be a mom and a boss. Before all of these responsibilities fell upon her, she had a somewhat casual dating life and was told more often than not how beautiful she was. She still was and this hadn't changed. She just couldn't see it before but now she could. It was a powerful feeling and one she promised herself to never lose again. Now she questioned why it took the possibility of her being fancied by one of the younger Tashio men to bring these sentiments forward in the first place.
Her eyes trailed the white crown molding around the sunroom with a growing blush on her cheeks. Both men were very handsome and attractive in their own way. Of course she could feel the heat rise to her cheeks every time she thought back to the memory of seeing them either shirtless in their mother's kitchen or dressed impeccably well at the dinner table. But she had concluded that she was a red-blooded woman and that it was perfectly acceptable for her to feel these things. They were attractive and she could appreciate fine things. However to act would be a completely different story and she wasn't going to go so far as to do that. But what if one of them saw her in this way? Kagome couldn't deny the flutters in her gut at the thought that maybe…just maybe…one attractive man would look at her with the expressions that Inutashio always gave to Izayoi. You had to be insane not to see their love for each other. But could it really be one of their sons looking at her secretly in a romantic manner? And did she want of them to look at her in the first place?
Sesshomaru had this quiet strength about him with a dark humorous side to him that would come out on occasion to poke at another. Inuyasha was boisterous and seemed to live his life to the fullest without regrets. Sesshomaru and Inuyasha were very different but also more alike than they seemed. But having met the people that raised them, she could see how they came to be this way. But could she really feel something for one of them? Did one of them feel something for her? Everyone seemed to know something she didn't about her relationship with these men. She had evaluated them both and could not see where she fit in all of this. She thought they were very handsome but a relationship with anyone in her life right now was impossible. Sesshomaru was taken so that was dead end and Inuyasha may have some princess or model lined up for him anyway. Above all, she had way too much to do in her life at the moment. Rin needed her and her business was on the verge of going to the next level. But she couldn't lie to herself that the desire for love and affection was there waiting in the deep crevices of her heart. But she would be a fool to seek it now.
Kagome pulled her sweater around her feeling the cool breeze come through the screen windows. The season was getting colder and fall was settling in. Already the trees and grass was changing in color from bright greens to warm oranges, yellows, and browns. It wouldn't be long before the thick boots were pulled out and the heavy coats were donned. She looked down at the packet and focused her thoughts on something less dangerous and fickle. She didn't know how much time had passed until she found herself going over every detail he typed and making notes to herself about what needed to be taken off and added to her menu. Suddenly, Sesshomaru came out walking rather fast with Rin in his arms and her little arms wrapped around his neck.
"I'll give you my final draft as well this Sunday." Kagome looked up confusingly at his quick approach. She flipped back to his notes regarding the wine pairings desiring to taste his selections to understand what wine he selected brought out what flavors in her dishes. Her hand pointed to the page until she noticed his left hand was outstretched towards hers to be taken. She reached out slowly and took it with a raised eyebrow hoping he would use his voice to explain himself. She was pulled onto her feet quickly and closer to his body. His hand reached to her waist and directed her towards the exit rather forcefully. "What gives?" She asked looking at his hand upon her and fighting the blush on her cheeks. Her previous thoughts rising to her brain making her slightly cough at her own folly.
Sesshomaru's nose wiggled towards the open double doors. His head tilted a bit causing his long silver hair to languidly pour over his right shoulder. "We should have breakfast someplace else." He simply gave moving them through the double doors and into the hallway. "Come miko."
"Wait! I got to get my purse and Rin's bag!" She said and maneuvered out of his grasp and into the family den where she was previously sitting until coming to a complete stop. Her eyes went wide to see the older couple embraced in each other's arms looking into each other's heated expressions completely forgetting and uncaring about the world around them. Inutashio had his left hand around Izayoi's waist and his right moved to rub gently on her belly. Her arms were enclosed around his neck as she looked to him with shining eyes.
"I'm sorry!" Kagome squeaked and backed away into the chest of Sesshomaru standing behind her.
Sesshomaru checked his pocket for his keys and wallet while shaking his head at the timing of their affection. Inus were known to publicly show their affection and protection of pack mates and could at times be quite exhibitionists. But this was a bit much and he knew if they didn't exit quickly…Rin would get a lesson she wasn't ready to receive just yet. Their scent was growing heavy and the desire was there building like smoke around them. Sesshomaru reached for Kagome's left hand because Kagome blocked her sight with her right hand. He pulled her back out of the room and out of view of his parents hoping they didn't rut in the family den. The smell had a tendency to linger which was awkward to say the least at times.
"I didn't get my stuff!" Kagome said dropping her hand now that they were out of the room.
"You don't need it. We will be back…later." He said shaking his head and keeping Rin balanced in his right arm. He could hear his father's snickers behind him. A growl resonated in his throat for his father to hear clearly stating his disapproval of their timing. He hoped they would be done later but knowing his Beta and father, one could never be too sure. He swore he had the most shameless pack mates on the planet.
Kikyo worked at her desk with as much motivation to work as she did to pretend she cared about Kaguya. She had come into the office feeling like shit. Shiori was across from her looking at samples of clothing and color swatches. Several times she asked for Kikyo's help but Kikyo waved responsibility back onto the young demoness's shoulders causing her to huff quite a few times in annoyance. Kikyo watched the chickens run around the room all aiming to please Shiori while looking at her with fear in their eyes. It had already gotten back to her that the staff saw her as a replica of Lady Inukimi and that mistakes wouldn't be tolerated. She was seen as Shiori's watchdog so to speak and everyone treaded carefully after one time she lit into a pesky designer for his aggressive push to have his line featured in their magazine. This was far from the truth but if it helped lessen her work load and get everyone to act professional with Shiori then she would work with this newly possessed reputation. She would be their villain especially if it got them out of her face. This she came to agree upon with InuKimi. Kikyo shook her head unable to watch spineless grown adults run around anymore finding it was making her nauseous and sick again.
She looked down at her crowded desk and couldn't focus on anything at the moment. When she made it to her side of the world the previous night, she had made a stop at a local convenience store. She simply stood there in the beer aisle looking at her options until she became lost in thought regarding the information she now had in her hands and horrible luck she was having. Her mind and body warred with the addicting taste of alcohol and tobacco and with that of the uncomfortable feeling in her abdomen. How awkward she must have looked simply standing there in a daze holding her stomach in the back of the store next to coolers of beer. It was only until a guy reached between her body and a can that she came to and realized where she was.
Kikyo walked out of there with a small six-pack can of beer and had to fight not to buy a pack of cigarettes. It was a fight she lost as she ended up buying those too for the hell of it. By the time she got home, she was worn out. Her argument with her sister, the files in her hands, the pain in her uterus, and the tug of war she had with her addictions was stressful and was driving her into madness. She thought a beer would be a safe bet instead of hard liquor but it was not. She laid in her bed in the dark on top of the spread files and pictures in a daze going over the information she had just gained. Before she realized it, she had gone through half a pack of cigarettes and drank almost all the beer. It was all a mistake that she deeply regretted. She also regretted eating rich food at the little children's café because by the middle of the night everything from the medication the hospital pumped into her, the food, the beer, etc.…had all come up.
Kikyo hadn't gripped the toilet bowl so strongly since her days of binging on the bottle. She sat on her cool white tile floor and just let everything come out. Her body jerked and convulsed until she had tilted and fallen onto the floor. She wasn't even strong enough to crawl back to her one room loft so she had just fallen asleep in the bathtub. By the morning she had flushed the rest down the toilet officially regretting all life decisions at that moment. She took the longest shower and brushed her teeth for thirty minutes trying to get rid of the tobacco scent and vomit she swore she could smell on herself. No one said anything when she came in so she assumed that she was either very successful or no one wanted to lose their jobs. On her way to work she made an appointment with a nutritionist to discuss an organic detox as well as made a mental note to see the herbalist her sister had told her about. Enough was enough.
Kikyo looked back in front of her and frowned. Now she had to think about what to do that morning. In her hands was practically Sesshomaru's dirty laundry. She had official tangible proof that Kaguya was illegally seeking artificial insemination without Sesshomaru's knowledge and consent. That was a huge 'No-No' and could get the woman jailed because in demon culture that was disgraceful and against a clause in their laws under an amendment labeled "Natural Law". Kikyo had blown up colored photos showing Kaguya's entrance and exit from the clinic at different times and dates.
She had found that Lady Inukimi had indeed been keeping tabs on the young princess despite her nonchalance about Kaguya's welfare. A written and recorded statement was taken from the doctor who said he was forced to provide her these services yet none of Kaguya's medical records could be obtained due to health law and privacy acts. He performed one last procedure before denying her services because he was no longer able to operate against the law and against his will. This was blackmail which could at least get Kaguya a court date but just a slap on the wrist. Protective measures were provided for the doctor's name and business by Lady Inukimi. He mentioned a possibility of Kaguya being pregnant after her last appointment but nothing was confirmed. A form sat in front of her requesting an annulment of some ancient marriage binding contract that had Sesshomaru and Kaguya's full names printed on it. She scanned the page and looked to the bottom to see her name already printed and a line was drawn with a red arrow taped where she should sign.
Kikyo sat back in her seat having learned that what bonded Sesshomaru to Kaguya was what she ultimately expected. One of the old school demon contracts placed as insurance for marriages among pure blooded demons was in place and locked the great demon into a loveless marriage. The contract was known as the Breach of Promise and she had seen it several times among demon families. But this was the first time one was being pushed to be broken. And she knew this was very hard to fight in court because the nature of it was so binding with one party possibly losing everything to other should the engagement/marriage be broken without just cause. She looked at the form and shook her head wondering how on earth Sesshomaru got himself into this mess. There had to have been motive for him to pick her in the first place. Was it power? Money? Demon culture? What could have pushed him to go through all of this? Then there was the strong possibility that he didn't know the Utomi Family was waiting for something like this to happen just so they could insure their bloodline and their pockets. It was ghastly.
She thought about calling Sesshomaru but she didn't like giving news like this over the phone. Hell, Kikyo didn't want anything to do with this now. She was helping Sesshomaru for her own agenda granted but she didn't want to be this deep into his problems. Kikyo expected like maybe a contractual agreement between both parties or something like that to bind him but not one of these ancient relic bonds. She sighed heavily wanting to knock it all off of her desk or toss it in the trash but couldn't.
Sesshomaru clearly knew about the contract but didn't know about Kaguya's recent visits to the doctor. If this got out, it could be humiliating depending on where he stood with Kaguya at this moment.
Was he trying to get her pregnant but couldn't for some reason?
Was he sterile?
Was she barren?
Did he know but still was ok with it and trying to work things out?
Did he not know about Kaguya's actions and could this have been a setup?
So many questions ran through her head. Kikyo didn't know much truly except he had this dislike for Kaguya so that eliminated a desire to have a family with her. But that didn't mean by cultural duty he wasn't trying… She wished he had said more to her to explain himself. What Sesshomaru wanted wasn't communicated with her despite what Lady Inukimi may have thought. Sesshomaru only wanted Kikyo to investigate and then he said that they would speak later once she figured it all out. Now that she found out these little details, she wished she didn't.
She looked at Inukimi's door and wanted to just strangle the older woman. Lady Inukimi had guests in her office going over Shiori's final edit of the magazine before Paris Fashion Week. Why? Why her? Now Kikyo felt like she was crossing a line. Sesshomaru wanted her help but in another way…his way. And she wanted to help him only if she gained him as an asset in the unforeseeable future. But this was not the way to go. She knew he would be angry if he found out they were doing this all behind her back. He would gut her for knowing these dark details of his relationship. But furthermore he would bleed her dry if she signed these official papers Inukimi gave her. If she signed these papers, she would start the court process to undo his bond to the demoness. All that was needed was one more signature besides hers to bring the issue to the Youkai Council immediately and she was sure that wasn't hard to do with his name on the ledger. But who would she find to petition it?
'Ring Ring!'
Kikyo looked at her cell phone and immediately opened it having seen the name pop on her screen. She slid the unlock button and put the device to her ear. "Inuyasha?" She asked quite shocked he called her so early that morning.
"Kikyo." He said nearly breathlessly. She could hear the hesitation in his voice. "I thought you were bullshitting about the whole Sesshomaru marriage thing but…I found out he had investigated his rights against it already but get this…I just got a phone call from a friend that an annulment for my brother's engagement was pushed last week by my family's lawyers and Alpha. But there is a time limit to this transaction."
Kikyo sat stiff in her chair. Kikyo's heart pounded in her chest at the meaning of Inuyasha's words. Inukimi already filed papers since she was a member of Youkai Council so the ball was already rolling. Kikyo technicality was still a member of the Youkai Council and so Inukimi only needed her signature to rush this to the Council floor. If she signed it she would be agreeing to Inukimi's antics and have acted behind the backs of the Tashio family. His pride, reputation, dignity would be on a chopping block before the world and the Council as everyone would look into his relationship and question his motives.
If she didn't sign it, she could miss the opportunity to get Sesshomaru out of his little predicament. There was no telling if he had a plan of his own as he refused to administer these details to her. But if he didn't he was thoroughly screwed. Kaguya would continue to work to lock him down until she was successful. The bond could not be broken unless one of them did something extremely unlawful to the other. The odds of that happening would be close to none.
"How much time?" She finally asked.
"Three weeks." He answered releasing a long exasperated sigh.
Kikyo sat stiff and unmoving in her chair taking this all in. There was also another issue she couldn't look pass. There was the issue of Sesshomaru's investigation. If Kaguya was to ever find out about Sesshomaru's investigation to break his promise then her family had grounds to say that he had intentions to violate their arrangement. The Breach of Promise would go into play regardless of what he did. His family could be on the verge of losing everything if she didn't move now.
But why her?
Why did Inukimi drag her into this mess?
If Sesshomaru found out about this, InuKimi wouldn't go down alone. She would have company with her to be blamed for getting in his business. Regardless, by sharing this information with her…it put Kikyo in the place of the villain along with her. This was all grand-masterfully planned and Inukimi seemed to be just waiting in the shadows to make a move. Her hatred for Kaguya and her family was clearly showing in her actions. Kikyo turned to look at Inukimi who had stood up and went to close the door to her office. Her striking golden eyes looked to Kikyo catching her hard stare. A slow smirked built on her lips and she nodded knowing very well Kikyo was putting the pieces together. She gripped the door and raised an eyebrow at her direction almost in a dare for Kikyo to say something.
"Hello? You there?" Inuyasha's voice asked over the phone. "What the hell! Kikyo!"
"You sneaky conniving bitch." Kikyo growled knowing Inukimi could hear her. "Well played."
Lady Inukimi smirked and delicately closed her door throwing a loud laugh her way. Kikyo hit her desk hard scaring everyone in the office and causing a shocked Shiori to jump and look at her as well. Kikyo collected the items on her desk and held the phone to her ear. "I'm still here, Inuyasha. Hold on." She said making sure she left nothing behind. She put it all in her drawer and locked it to keep it safe before standing up. She collected her notes and her final submissions on her projects and walked out of her office. Everyone moved out of her way as she moved through the common room that connected the heads of staff. She stopped in front of Shiori's office and looked down at the petite demoness. "I just finished the final edits and notations." Kikyo announced placing her papers on Shiori's desk. Shiori looked at her with wide eyes and a concerned expression darkening her face.
"You're finished? Already?" Shiori asked looking at the pile with wide eyes and a frantic heartbeat. She had still so much to do and was drowning in her work. She felt stressed with all the projects she had building up and the problems coming her way from the staff. Kikyo couldn't leave her now.
"Yep!" Kikyo said angrily. "Please give them to your Alpha when she is finished meddling in others affairs!" She yelled wanting Inukimi to hear her. Everyone in the office gasped and a few ran away not wanting to be caught in bloodbath.
"Can you stop yelling! My ears can't stand it!" Inuyasha complained on the other line hearing everything.
Kikyo sighed heavily before turning towards the door and watching as a few scattered. She turned around and looked at everyone that stayed. She put Inuyasha on mute before speaking up. "All of you have five seconds to leave this office. If you can't fix your own problems then please give your two weeks' notice because clearly you are showing you do not have the fortitude to do your job that we are paying you to do!" With this a few ran away and left the office. She looked to Shiori with a critical gaze that had Shiori secretly wondering if Kikyo was a powerful demoness in a past life. Kikyo reached to take whatever that was in Shiori's hands and looked at it. "Who does this belong to?" She asked looking around the room and showing the paper she had.
"M-mine." One girl spoke before her hands were filled with the papers. Kikyo looked at her and rolled her eyes in annoyance. "Go work on the article that is supposed to go next to these photo's for the website." She said before shooing everyone out of Shiori's office and taking Inuyasha off mute. "I'm back, Inuyasha. Please tell me that was all…" She said walking out of the office.
"Wait! What are you going to do, now?" Shiori asked after her feeling oddly relieved now that everyone was out of her face and no longer asking questions. Everyone raced out of sight quickly and through the glass they could see a few running to the elevators to get off the level. Their secretaries were at their desks sitting in silence redirecting phone calls as fast as they could. Shiori got up from her desk and rushed to the door after the tall priestess. "There's still the runway show to plan too!"
"Email me what you have." She needed to put some distance between her and Inukimi or else bad blood would pass between them. "I'll work with Izayoi on the production and you handle the details and invites." Kikyo responded walking to her office and grabbing her purse and keysShe walked forward and closed her door tightly behind her taking her 'Do Not Disturb' sign with her. She placed it on Shiori's door and stepped away to exit the floor.
"Where are you going?" Shiori asked afraid to be left alone after the woman had just given her some reprieve.
"First, to get coffee with your brother. Then to paint!" Kikyo yelled out hopping onto the elevator as everyone got out of it for her to ride alone. She glared at everyone daring them to so much as look at Shiori as if they were going to speak to her. She took Inuyasha off mute and listened to Inuyasha's heated rant about petty gold-diggers. The anger he felt on his brother's behalf was pure but she knew it was nothing compared to the rage he would exhibit if only he knew how deep of a shithole Sesshomaru was in. Kikyo sighed needing to make a decision as soon as possible. She just hoped for once it would be the right one to make that wouldn't end in a death sentence or having the Tashio's as mortal enemies.
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