Well Hello Loves!

Thanks for all the love and the outreach! I'm safe. My house was unharmed by Irma. There is now a river in my backyard but my family is blessed and we all are fine. Also, that hurricane did give me time to edit as I now have over 105 pages to this story to upload...but it needs major editing! This chapter was 30 pages long in length soooooo it had to get cut up some.

I like how CW stole my fanfic "The Gifted" and turned it into a show. *sighs*

But any everyone except a few really like the soap opera vibe and the long chapters so you know what...that I can do! If it ain't broken, don't fix it right? New concrete updating schedule info is on my page. I have time again to write consistently!

On another note...Its almost October! Excited!

Now here you go darlinggggsss. Enjoy!

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Nawnana – LoL Thank you! The hurricane was crazy and we still not out of the woods yet so they say. But we are fine and we are moving on. But I thank God though for the peace and break it gave me to clean this up and come back to the thing I like doing. God bless you. xoxoxo

yaoi4adollar – Here you go my love! I hope you enjoy!

Tai – Thank you love! I can't wait for you all to read how everyone comes together! Its going to be big!

Danielle596 – Lol Naraku can be such a likeable character! I love reading the different takes people have on his character. And Ive been working, cleaning up after this storm, etc. We finally got power and stuff! So I've had nothing but time but to catch up with writing and clean up a bit. Hope life is going well with you. My love and kisses to the kids.

angeleyes20876 – lol "Pulls Out Reading Glasses For the Notebook"

Yes, I wanted to show a different side to Naraku. It doesn't make it right what he's doing or how he's doing but even he had good intentions. And the road to hell is paved with them. And I love your quotes. The same could be said about the devil from the bible. People want to believe that Satan is this grotesque creature but many contexts in Christianity, Catholicism, Judaism, etc. that he was a fallen angel and is quite beautiful (some texts say he is an angel of music). And he uses his beauty many times to lure those into sin.

Naraku just might be team Sess and Kag. We will find out very soon! You're the only one so far that feels bad for Kaguya. *Tough Crowd*

And you have been excellent as ever! Loved your inquiries. Definitely had to change some things up a bit for the next chapter. But I'm ready to introduce couples! Cant wait to read your analysis for this chapter!

AkaNeko-Sesshy – Lol That will come up next chapter! I promise!

Delite – Thank you! Someone else appreciates a different twist in Naraku. I thought I was alone alone Alone on this island of trying to give Naraku's character a slight twist.

OMGBecky – Well Becky you areeeee…..right! I love what I'm doing so I'm sticking to my guns. I intended this on being soap opera-ish and that's how it will be until the end. I did have a lot on my plate these last few months but like I said…I will finish this story….just in due time. PPPPaaainnnffullllyyy slow. I'm not going to rush. So hope you enjoy this chapter!

Raven's Serenity – Thank my love! I'm so glad that chapter was a binge worthy one. Makes me feel so good as a writer!

Nyght Elf – You are a doll! So glad you enjoyed that last chapter and was open-minded on a new version of Naraku!

And yes finally Kaguya has been addressed! So many people were excited for that. And hell yes girl. We as women…do whatever is fit for your family. And Thanks so much for the love!

KagomeLove2 - Lol your comments were so lively! But sorry babes. Its still a soap opera. People liked this style of writing and pacing so…"Shrugs shoulders". If it aint broken…don't fix it.

I got big plans for Naraku and Marie. Just you wait.

NarukoSon – LoL I hope you have an enjoyable lunch break and that this makes it just a little bit more lovely.

Rawyyy – Your pun was everything! Love it! And ok love. I will keep them long and full of meaningful content. Xoxo

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Chapter 38: In Vino Veritas

Shiori was dog tired. The young Inu demoness held her head in the palm of her hand as she looked over the intricate details of her proposed fashion and art show. Her bangs had become messy as they pushed between her thin fingers. The single light from her desk illuminated her sprawled tasks before her. Her red pen bounced around from one paper to the other searching for errors and mistakes to draw forward and correct. Her stomach made little grumpy noises, voicing its dismay of her refusal to find sustenance. Shiori's pen scratched across the surface of papers speedily as she burned the midnight oil. Her golden eyes travelled all over her desk, growing increasingly queasy at the sight of the mountain of papers, contracts, and fabric samples that claimed residence on her desk that night. So much still needed to be done but there just wasn't enough time. She took a glance upward at the new issue that needed to be looked over by the end of the week. The markup of the new issue sat on the corner of her desk with colorful tags, yellow sticky notes, red corrections, and deadlines written all throughout it. Then there was her own fashion show that was to kick off in the middle of Fashion Week.

A loud groan followed by a whimper escaped her thin lips. She tossed her pen down and bent to hold her head into both palms of her hand this time. She ran her palms down her slim face and peeked between her fingers to glance out at the empty dark office before her. Through the glass wall, she could see the empty desks and offices of her peers around her. Everyone was long gone and out enjoying their night. She was sure that only herself was up this late in the building frantically going through copy and messaging vendors on various details that still needed to be addressed for the show. Kikyo had done her part and her art was ready and safely stored away for pickup. She also had saw to the guests lists and sent out the final information regarding the programs and timelines of their event as well as what to expect. Kimi had left two hours ago, having finished her conference with her team in New York. She had left as well leaving her all alone to take care of everything else. Kimi's final words was a stern reminder that all eyes were on her now. The stress and the weight she now felt was heavy. She felt almost weakened by it as if it was a physical entity working to break her.

Shiori closed her eyes and reached to rub the sore muscles along the nape of her neck. She adjusted the pink blanket that covered her thighs in hopes that a small amount of comfort would come to her. How long had she been bent over her desk working like a maniac? She had lost track of time after putting out various fires from designer egos to wrangling the production team to submit a final plan for the platform designs of her show. The theme she and Kikyo agreed upon was an homage to the Renaissance Era where art of various kinds had become the star of mainstream society. A rebirth of ideas and brilliant creations. They wanted this to reflect everywhere from the moment their guests stepped foot on the property to the very last second when they would leave.

She looked to the ticking round clock on the wall; watching the second-hand tick away and announce its movement loudly in her ears. Another sigh escaped her as she glanced back down at her work wondering if it was worth continuing or not. Shiori picked up her pen and tapped it on the desk several times while doing her best to not slump over again with her head resting in the palm of her hand. She looked again at the papers with dismay. Her fingers itched to reach for her cell phone and check for messages, mainly from Shippo. How she desired to just crawl in his comfy bed and lay close to him under the mix-matched comforter and blankets in his place far away from it all.

She picked up her pen and shook her head, dropping the pen again on the desk. Shippo no doubt was either working late, studying, or deep into his dreams at this atrocious late hour. Either way, he would not call or message her today. She had told him prior that these next few weeks, she was going to be slammed and there was the high possibility that they wouldn't see each other as much. And to her chagrin, she was right. Life had been hell without his bright smile and mischievous green eyes lighting up. Furthermore, her place had been cold as the artic as well. Her bed was not the same without him next to her. She also had to remember that she was not alone in her busy affairs. She would not call him to disturb him. He had a lot going on these days. With Restaurant Week and his exit exam from culinary school approaching, he needed all the time he could get to prepare and make an impression. The last thing she wanted to do was to distract him from his priorities that would better his future.

Shiroi repeated this like a mantra over and over in her head. She tried to focus on self-control but her heart was sinking rapidly into a state of depression. She missed Shippo dearly and the more she worked, the more she resented the career choice she had made. She loved fashion and design. She wanted more than anything to prove that she could be just as good without the Tashio name attached to her, grandfathering her in everywhere she went. She didn't want people to see her as just another socialite riding the coattails of her pack mates. That's why she started her own line. Then there came to opportunity to prove that she had as much brains as she did creativity. So, she joined Vogue and began writing and analyzing trends and style techniques. But now she wasn't so sure if this is what she wanted.

Shiori missed just sketching in the garden, whimsical designs she had dreamt under the guidance of the moon and the stars. She missed sitting at her sowing machine and zoning out as she brought her sketches to life and gave them breath with crazy patterns and colorful fabrics. But she had no time for that now. She barely had time to push out the remaining designs she created for her Fashion Show. But she couldn't back out now or anytime soon. Kimi would skin her hide. She loved Kimi and idolized her tenacity with running Vogue. She had thought that she would gain some of that strength and respect from the fashion world that Kimi could command with just a blink of indifference. She desperately wanted to work and earn her own respect. But now she had no time to enjoy any of the things she used to. Vogue was becoming more of a burden than anything.

Shaking her head again, Shiori picked up her pen and pulled another stack in front of her. She grew mad at herself for her thoughts. It would do her no good whining and complaining. This was what she wanted and she was almost at the finish line. She had already blazed her own path by sticking to her guns and doing what she thought was best. Once Fashion Week was over, she would go on a small break and lock herself in Shippo's airy apartment for two weeks. But she had to finish what she started. Besides, she was here now and there was work to be done. Shiori kicked off her beige pumps underneath the desk and tucked her feet underneath her bottom in hopes of getting more comfortable. She waved her pen around while reading the text on the paper before her with determination. Just two more weeks and she was free as a bird again. All her previous thoughts had left her and her mind focused on the task at hand. Within a few minutes her pen was back to scratching across the paper with vigor working even later into the night.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

Shiori glanced to the phone on her desk with curiosity to see security was on the line. She dropped her pen and reached for the phone with concern wondering what could they possibly be contacting her about. "Yes?" She answered, biting her lip roughly.

Her amber eyes grew wide and the curve of her lips lifted towards the ceiling instantly. A hopeful light came to her eyes that wasn't there before. She stood up from the desk and practically knocked a few papers off the edge in her haste to stand. Her blanket fell to the floor in a heap at her feet. "Yes, yes! Let him up!" She rushed as she excitedly dropped the phone on the cradle and hung up. She excitedly brushed her fingers along the sides of her head to smooth her hair down and tightened the hold on her ponytail. Shiori could see the strands of her bangs look puffy and she blew at them in hopes that they could get volume. She ran her fingers through it to straighten it but grew frustrated at the lack of cooperation. Shiori looked to her desk and grimaced at how unruly it looked. She made to organize the chaos and look somewhat presentable. After a few shuffles of paper, she knew it was a lost cause and abandoned the task in favor of her appearance. She looked down and saw her blouse was wrinkled and her pants were rolled up to her knees. She looked around her office for a mirrored surface so she could check herself but the sound of the elevator ringing announced that her preparation time was up.

Shiori felt her lungs expand in her chest at the sight of a most wanted miracle. She slowly sunk back down into her seat and continued to look through the glass. The stress she felt from before had become nothing more than a dull ache. She watched as her beloved Shippo stroll casually into her space for the first time looking awed and curious at everything around him in the dark. In one hand was a giant black bag and swung over his other shoulder was his trusty worn beige backpack still holding on for dear life. He was still dressed in his chef's coat. His hair was even more unruly and his clothes looked wrinkled. He contrasted to everything around him yet he stood out like a foreign model made up for some creative editorial piece. Her eyes shifted to the black bag he carried. She could smell all kinds of scents and delicious spices wafting from his person and the bag bouncing in his hand. His eyes still looked about until they finally laid upon her. A bright smile bloomed across his tired face. She could see the signs of dark bags growing underneath his eyes and the sway in his gentle aura spoke of exhaustion. But still he had pushed through to come see her. And at the late hour none the less.

"Shippo!" Shiori greeted with reprieve. She made to stand but he held his one free hand up and shook it indicating that she may not move an inch further. "What? How?" She asked as she sank back down into her chair and watched him walk into her space. So many questions filled her along with the growing desire to seek refuge from the stress in his arms. Already his earthy scent called to her senses with galactic promises of warmth, security and luxurious indulgences.

"Stay there. I'll come get you when its ready." He responded as he hurried forth and looked around her office as if searching for something. With excitement, his eyebrows nearly went into his hairline as he peered into an empty corner in the room. "Your Alpha mother, Lady Kimi came in and pretty much told me you would be here."

"Kimi?" She asked in disbelief as her smile grew wider upon her face. She looked passed the glass to Kimi's empty office and smiled at her Alpha's way of doing her a solid.

Shippo nodded. "She came by the joint and told Kagome to pass a message to me not too much long ago. That you would be here working late. So, I decided to do something about that."

Shiori watched with curiosity as he shuffled towards a corner near the big glass window that stretched from ceiling to floor and sat all his belongings down on the beige carpeted floor. He immediately began excitedly unzipping his book bag. He pulled out a giant red cloth and laid it out on the ground. She continued to study his movements and observe with enthusiasm as he dug out paper plates, plastic cups, and plastic silverware. She smiled and her love for him became overwhelming as it donned on her his plans for their late evening. She could feel tears swell in her eyes as she watched him show off the plastic containers filled with warm food. Shippo opened the containers and added additional fresh seasonings and garnishes to the dishes, tasting each one as if he was back in the kitchen preparing for the customers in the dining room. Shiori watched the wrinkles on his forehead increase with concentration as whatever flavors he was searching for registered on his palate.

Shippo clapped his hands in approval and then he quickly dug into his black bag for something else. She laughed as he pulled out two bottles of cold beer that he one time swore would go with almost anything. She wasn't much of a beer drinker until she had a few with Shippo inside his loft. It became a thing she only did with Shippo. Something about the taste seemed to only go best when paired with the company of her playful fox. Shiori reached for her soft pink blanket that fell to the floor and held it close to her chest as he stood up and looked to her. She waited patiently for him to finish, when he made to stand and walked towards her direction.

Shippo looked down at Shiori and he could sense her distress that was slowly ebbing away. Her eyes were slightly puffy and he could see she was exhausted. He wondered how long Demons weren't supreme beings and could only go for so long without proper rest. This he knew from his own current experience. He bent down and reached for her. Like a magnet, her body easily slid into his arms. He lifted her from her chair and adjusted her so that she fit closer to him in his hold comfortably. Naturally, he came forward and she met him halfway with a light kiss. He pulled away and walked her over to his makeshift picnic area in the corner of her office. She held onto him as she fluidly sunk to his knees and rocked backwards to sit on his rear. Somehow, she had adjusted to sit comfortably in his lap with his back against the wall and her blanket covering them. Food was served on the plates and conversation flowed casually between them followed by a few bouts of welcoming silence.

"I can't wait for this to end." Shiori voiced as she snuggled into his hold, happy and full. All willpower to finish her work had evaporated into the night the more she sank into him. At this thought, Shiori shifted slightly against him. She thought better than to get too comfortable. There was a place she wanted to go that was way better than the straight lines, mod colors, and chic floors of her office.

Shippo laid a kiss to her forehead. "You can do it. You're a Tashio, remember."

Shiori looked up at him. The skyline line lights from the window reflected in his bright green hopeful eyes. She smiled at his kindness and the true belief he had for her within his spirit. "Let's go home."

Kagome looked down at the screen of her cell phone as she reread the text message Sesshomaru had sent her earlier that night. His simple two worded text was enough to get her ears burning in the fall air as she rushed to get to his restaurant in the middle of Paris. She hustled through the streets, passing grumbling strangers, romantic tourists, and the late-night crowd that shuffled about near the heart of the city. Her beige jacket blew open from her speed and her messy bun flopped about on the top of her head. Her breathe came out in puffs from between her pink lips as her feet took her hurriedly into the dark night. The gentle lighting of the lamp posts lining the grey sidewalk and the headlights from the many cars driving about, aided her sight in her pursuit of the Inu demon's restaurant.

She had just finalized the Restaurant Week menu earlier in the week. Low and behold, the mighty prince wanted a rush order of extravagant menus detailing her finished product. Such a detail wasn't in the plans and Sesshomaru had never mentioned that he wanted a tangible print-out of the menu. Kagome had to pay extra to get the menus designed and delivered in under a few days. Also, the specifics such as the gloss, shine, and the environmental friendly paper added to the increasing cost of the marketing endeavor that she was regretting by the minute. She still didn't see why she couldn't do as she had been doing in the past. Her little bistro style chalkboard with the ever-changing menu written in Sango's cursive lettering was always acceptable and beloved by her patrons. But leave it to Sesshomaru to find folly with something as little as her pavement marketing strategies.

Kagome blew out the air that was filling her lungs in a large puff as she slowed her steps down. Her bangs lifted from her forehead from the force of wind. She looked down to the fancy menus she stuffed into her purse with annoyance. She had to admit, they were pretty and their element of sophistication did not go lost on her ego. The little menus were discreet with clean lines and eloquent font detailing the experience to be had at her restaurant and beyond. She still found it to be a little bit too delicate for her taste. But if it would make the Inu ass happy then she would bite her tongue.

For now at least.

The moment the shipment of custom menus had arrived at her restaurant, everyone was jumping with excitement and borderline hysteria. It was finally sinking in that Restaurant Week was upon them. Everyone grabbed a menu and looked at the little pieces of rich paper with their own emotions bubbling forth and attaching to the little souvenir. Already, they had taken two of the menus and posted them on the bulletin board where they put announcements, reminders, memories, and special notes. She had even caught Bankoustu tucking in a little menu into his jacket as he and the guys moved the boxes in the back for safe keeping. Despite his tough exterior, he was very much a softy and a romantic at heart. No doubt he was going to keep this as a memento of the event he shared with his girlfriend. The excitement and thrill of doing something different was palpable among her crew. And she would be a liar if she said that she didn't feel it as well. This Restaurant Week was different. Magical even. She could feel it.

The young chef looked up to the dark sky finding the moon had been hidden behind billows of clouds that night. Her heart was still beating in her chest as her mind ran over the ever growing mental to-do list. She had all the equipment scrubbed down and ready for the week to come. Her trusty ingredient sources at the market were notified of her early morning orders and she threw in an extra tip to keep their loyalty. She had tried to send everyone home early to rest up. She thought they needed to use the next day to relax before the big day. But they would not have it. Everyone stayed late that evening, pulling their weight to make sure that everything in the whole place was spotless, clean, prepared, and ready for their moment to express to the world why they were one of the top culinary experiences in France. Everyone washed linens, scrubbed tables, chairs, and walls, and restocked specific items. The twins and Sango cleaned and double checked the ovens. Esmerelda had called and told them of the success arrival of her cocoa beans and other supplies. Jak and Shippo prepared the basics for the makings of various sauces and soups. Bank of course sharpened all the knives and utensils needed while arguing occasionally with Myoga about one thing or another. She and Miroku changed the house menu to the Fall offerings while being mindful of the split operations they had in the back. The time had run from them when they all got excited from the delivery of the menus. She finally had to just kick them out after realizing that she was very late with her small appointment with "Prince Prissy Pants".

This earned her a few snickers and sassy remarks but she couldn't help but shy away from the ominous expression of Miroku as he crossed his arms over his chest and tilted his head at her with feigned acquiesce. She knew that look very well and she wanted to do her best to avoid any lengthy periods of time alone with the monk out of fear that he would discover something that her mind couldn't exactly wrap around again. Miroku had been doing that a lot lately. First it was with Inuyasha. But now the monk seemed intent on badgering her about the older Inu brother. He had raised his suspicions to her about Inuyasha countless of times. Even going so bold as to do so in front of Inuyasha when he would come by. But she had laid to rest his inquisitive mind. They had nothing more than just an amicable friendship. A friendship based on a foundation of respect. One that involved seeing his naked pectorals early in the morning during breakfast. How god like they looked given the glow of the golden sun against his tanned skin.

Kagome shook her head and almost collided with someone due to her lack of attention to her surroundings. She quickly moved out the way and focused on her current surroundings. Another woman that walked the sidewalk wearing what looked to be nursing scrubs had the same tired eyes that she felt. Kagome wondered for a moment if the woman was equally as lost in her thoughts as well. Both women spoke quick apologies and smiled in a polite acknowledgement of the other as they walked around and went on about their late-night stroll.

Kagome looked up to the building looming closer with gratitude. Lots of people were strolling about due to the close proximity of Paris's number one attraction. The Eiffel Tower shimmered dazzlingly in layers of light and gold under the cloudy night. Kagome felt a bit envious of the Iron Lady. Her beauty never dulled or dimmed even on the ghastliest of days and nights of weather. She forever was there standing strong and lovingly embracing everyone who traveled far and wide to be in her space, serving as encouragement for all those that loved in its many forms. The Iron Lady constantly gave and received love. Never once did anyone walk away untouched by her presence.

"Madame?"

Kagome didn't realize that she had stopped in the middle of the sidewalk to gaze upwards at the beautiful monument. Her eyes trailed the tall beauty up to its highest point; once again lost in her musings. It was only until the doorman of Sesshomaru's building had spoken to her that she came to her senses and quickly rushed forward. A light blush ghosted her cheeks and a warm thank you was given to the demon that held the door open for her to enter.

The demon nodded his head and pointed upwards towards the top. "He is expecting you."

Kagome nodded her head and thanked the kind soul before rushing forward to the elevators to get the late impromptu meeting over with. This time, Kikyo had Rin for the day and she wanted to get home to relieve her sister of her newly regained Aunty duties. Inuyasha had taken Rin into his care for the week but she couldn't help but feel a little relieved that Kikyo came by and offered her services in the evenings. Well more like takeover since Kikyo found Inuyasha's babysitting techniques to be, "questionable". Kagome looked down at her cell phone as she hopped in the elevator and pressed the button for the top floor. She sent Kikyo a message asking about Rin's current status and waited patiently for a response.

The sound of the doors announcing her arrival had come and she quickly hurried out the elevator onto the rather luxurious entry way. Gone was the greeter for the night, yet the rich textured wooded door was cracked invitingly open. She pushed gently upon the door allowing herself into the dining room. She paced fully into the large decadent room and looked around at the suave stylings that was Sesshomaru's restaurant with a look of quiet content. She gazed at the rich texture of the wooden tables without their covers. The large clear windows revealed the skyline of the city and the Eiffel Tower in all her glory. The gentle colored lighting coming from the bar in the center gave the otherwise dark room a nice glow. The lights were turned out except for a few coming from the far left. Her brown eyes roamed until they fell upon the silver crown of Sesshomaru's head at one of the corner booths.

She walked forward almost cringing inside at how loud her feet echoed in the quiet space. The thought of sitting down finally weighed on her body. Exhaustion settled into her bones with each step she took to reach the table. When she finally reached Sesshomaru, a slight smile came to her lips. The table held many small plates and a place setting for two. On the other side were various types of papers scattered to the far left of their sitting area. Sesshomaru's head was turned down and his old-fashioned ink pen scratched whimsically across the sheet of paper that held a wax seal. He did not look up nor did he say anything to acknowledge her arrival. She rolled her eyes at the only greeting she got from him which was the loud ambience of silence.

"You really know how to greet a lady." She spoke, breaking the stillness in the large room. She watched with a humorous expression as his eyes slowly travelled upwards from his papers and onto her face. His hand stopped moving the pen on the letters on the table. Kagome just stood and watched as he finally made eye contact with her. His expression was stoic as he just gazed at her and then he was moving. Kagome smiled and began to maneuvere her bag onto the cushioned seat of the booth and made to take her coat off when two hands were suddenly helping her pull off the jacket with ease.

Sesshomaru folded her jacket over his forearm and bent to her ear. "You are late, miko."

Kagome turned her head to look back at him while a shiver ran up her spine. She watched his head nod and his honey eyes flicker to the empty seat across from him where a plate and wine glass sat. Kagome smiled as she again looked to the table with a seed of hope under the dim lighting. She expelled the air in her chest and moved to sit down in the cozy booth with her eyes still scanning the restaurant for any signs of food; hoping that he wasn't doing all of this to get back at her for being just a smidge bit late.

"Hey, I'm here now demon." She tossed back at him as she reached up and pulled her hair out of its messy prison. "Besides, you're the one that just had to get these things in today." She pulled the little menus out of her purse and placed them on the stack of papers that were to the side of the table. Her eyes saw the crimson seal of the youkai court on one of the documents. Concern seeded itself into her belly. "But great Prince of Vanity, your wishes were granted. Here they are." She motioned to them on the table before looking back at him.

Sesshomaru lifted an eyebrow as he laid her jacket over the back of the booth gently. "Solidarity." He responded as he turned his head to look at the miko who was clearly in a playful mood despite the tired lines around her wide eyes. She held a smile on her face as she finger-combed her hair into some semblance of control. He heard the slight grumbling of her stomach due to his sensitive hearing. However, Kagome did not acknowledge her own state of distress and this perturbed him a little bit. Kagome was a very caring human this he knew. But the more he came to understand and study her, the more confused he became. What he was able to deduce from their shared time was that despite the amount of attention she gave to others, she rarely gave any to the caring of her own wellbeing. He listened again catching the sound of irritation in her belly. "And you must not be hungry seeing the hour at which you chose to arrive." He said before looking at the clock on the wall.

Kagome tilted her head, growing steadily annoyed with his commentary regarding her tardiness. She touched her belly feeling the grumbling echo inside. She knew this would be the beginning of an internal riot if she didn't get something to eat now. She was in a such a hurry to get here that she didn't even share in the usual late meal with her staff. Kagome had hoped he would have something but by the looks of her situation, it was growing dismally bleak. Most likely he had put whatever he was going to serve away, which would have been fine had her stomach not decided to rebel at such an atrocious hour. She normally would just wave her hunger off and wait until she got home, but it was already late into the night. Kagome frowned as she thought on this further. Her state of distress was his fault to begin with because he just had to have a physical copy of her menu in his hand tonight and couldn't wait until tomorrow.

Kagome moved the plate in front of her into center and decided to bite back. "Well if you couldn't just wait until tomorrow like a normal sane person, we both wouldn't be here so late in the night to begin with." She paused in her statement hearing the grumbling getting louder and a slight pain in the back near her spine that made itself known. When did I eat last? Kagome sat a bit stiffer in her seat, trying her best to keep her body under some example of a decorum. She secretly began praying that his ears would not pick up on any awkward noises that would speak of her hunger. The last thing she wanted to do was embarrass herself by having her stomach pains negotiate with Sesshomaru across the table. "You know, I never got around to eating your food. I wonder is it worth it." Kagome said flippantly, hoping it would change the conversation.

Sesshomaru simply looked at her but did not go for the bait. Instead he grabbed the papers and pen that was on the table. The growing sounds of her belly were enough to bring a smirk to his lips and a rouge inflamed color to her cheeks. "Miko, you could just use your words and request nourishment instead of starving yourself and deafening my ears with your bodily noises." He responded as she gripped her stomach in hopes of muffling the sound.

"You prick!" Kagome muttered and made to retort further but he was already walking away towards the door. She turned to see him close it and then he went into an adjacent room. Kagome thought about the seal she saw and she couldn't help but think of what was to become of him if Kikyo didn't help him. He would be caged. And while she found him to be annoying and stuck up, she believed that no one should be tricked into anything. She didn't notice that he had walked by and went into the kitchen. Her stomach made a very loud declaration of its demands. She looked down at herself and groaned softly at her body's betrayal. She let loose a deep sigh and simply allowed her body to sink into the comforting cushion of her seat. She would take his rude remark if it meant that something delicious and solid would nourish her body before she passed out at the table.

She looked up to see him walk back into the dining room pushing a trolley. Kagome sat up in her seat and followed him with interest as he made his way to the table. Seeing him strolling with the little cart made her giggle somewhat. Here he was, this great Inu royal pushing a cart to her lowly table. She took in his white plain button up shirt and rolled beige pants with expensive looking loafers. His hair swung down his back like a shimmery silver rain fall behind him accented from the dim lighting of the ceiling and the reflection of the Eiffel Tower in the window. Kagome couldn't help but smile at the image he gave. How could someone that was known to be absolutely deadly go on to doing something so domesticated? But then again, it was a career that involved the daily use of sharp objects and fire so maybe there was something to the culinary career that appealed to his natural instincts. She found the whole ordeal to be comical and absurd.

Sesshomaru came forward and quickly began to place their meal on the table. He glanced up several times to watch as Kagome's eyes flitted from his form and back to the table. Curiosity grew in his chest as he took in her analytical and amused expression. He uncovered the trays of food and bestowed them upon her eyes to feast. Immediately, the very delicate smells wafted gently onto his senses pleasantly. His creation made perfectly before them. His nose could smell the purity of the meats he had grilled and the gentle roasting of a few vegetables. He had found humans to over-season their meals with high volumes of salts, herbs, and other enhancers that rather ruined the natural taste rather than augment them. His eyes went to surveying the miko that shared in the same culinary world as he had found himself in and he couldn't help but feel something akin to anxiousness in the pit of his belly brewing into his lungs.

Kagome sat forward in her seat and watched with genuine interest as he laid the evening meal before her. She looked at his skill and preparation as he moved each little meal to the small plates he sat around the table. Everything was so colorful and the smells that were washing over her smelt divine. She took note of the simple ingredients they shared in their dishes such as the fresh grilled salmon, robust gamey beef from Japan, the cooked artichokes, and fresh strawberries made into a soft glaze for the meats. Everything looked simple yet conjured up thoughts of France and Japan. She could see all the traditional Japanese dishes that had a very slight change to them because of the use of French ingredients but for the most part they were simple and elegant.

Kagome looked up to Sesshomaru with excitement and wonder as she began to realize that he was serving her a sample of the dishes that he had prepared for Restaurant Week. Her eyes lit up at the realization as she looked at the very basic ingredients in her dishes so beautifully laid before her. The humble origins of her past were wafting with fresh and delicious scents that called to her stomach's war cry with promises of reprieve and satisfaction.

"This looks amazing, Sesshomaru." She complimented as her imagination ran wild with her senses. "You did all this?" Kagome's eyes strolled up to look at him in wonder and disbelief.

Sesshomaru smirked at her reaction as he popped a bottle of wine and poured just a taste in a glass. He tilted his head and put the cork back in the bottle before moving on to another and pouring a different type into a prepared glass. The praise of just the visual she was experiencing excited him. He looked onto her face and saw the raw enjoyment and appreciation she had for his work. He saw the lifting of her eyes as they flitted about from one dish to the other. Her chest rose greatly as she inhaled the variety of scents. Her fingers curled obviously in search of her eating utensils yet her elbows were pushed back as if to restrain herself. Her excitement was palpable with the food making a delicious combination of tastes on his tongue.

He looked at everything that was placed on the table with pride as he had created it all with his bare hands. Such a feeling he felt was rare in the modern times. Sesshomaru poured the final bottle of wine into a glass and looked up as Kagome unfolded her napkin and politely placed it into her lap. He saw her reach for her menu that she had previously tossed on the table and pull it to her side to compare. He looked at the well-crafted menu and was pleased with the outcome. She had fought him religiously at first on crafting a menu for her guests but eventually she caved in. The menus worked well for the transitioning of their customers from his restaurant to hers and it also served as a helping guide for patrons to order based on the ingredients they sampled prior to arriving to their destination. As he watched her face he could see her finally get fully onboard with the use of the little menu's. The fire and stubbornness had flared and were now subsiding now that the proof was before her eyes. Sesshomaru found Kagome to be very stubborn the more he worked with her but reasonable and willing to negotiate.

Kagome ran her fingers through her hair and looked up at Sesshomaru as he sat back down in his seat across from her. "This is…wow." She said a bit winded as she dissected everything with her eyes at the table already seeing what others who weren't trained in the art of culinary cooking could not.

"You haven't tasted anything yet." He reminded her as she nodded her head and reached for her silverware. "But the question is now miko, are you going to run this time out of my restaurant before you have tasted my food?"

Kagome almost dropped her knife at his statement. Her happy expression began to shift into that of a glare. The memory of her and Sango dashing away months ago brought embarrassment back again to the dinner table. How did he know it was me? Her cheeks grew warm at the thought but her eyes did not stray from his face. There was no point in denying or bringing up the past so she just responded to get on with the night and the meal. "I'm ready to eat when you are." She fixed her posture in her seat and waved her hand at the setting of dishes at the table. "It looks good but you're right. It could taste like trash." She challenged.

Sesshomaru was moving his hands before she could finish. Kagome watched eagerly as he began serving her first a sample of artichokes which started things off on a more French-esque note before gradually moving into the cooked salmon dish with the pickled sides served with more Japanese style cooked dishes. She used her fork to poke and divide the food in half so she could see the coloring and the texture of the food she was about to consume. The steam rising off the food as she parted it was exceptional and everything was cooked to perfection. With controlled motions, she casually began to lift her food to her lips and took a bite at what he had created. The food hit her many taste buds on her tongue and she made the mistake of making eye contact as she did so.

Damn.

An appreciative sound like that of a moan came from her lips as her food registered in her brain. Her eyes stayed connected with his as he held hers like ransom while watching her receive what he had given. The combination of the organic savory flavors of his dish with that of the deep honey pigment in his eyes heightened the experience. It tasted just as great as she knew it would. Kagome chewed her food slowly picking up very subtle ingredients such as garlic and onion in her artichokes. Something else was there but it was so subtle she could barely pick up on it. Kagome also knew her inability to register the ingredient had a lot to do with the intense observation Sesshomaru was giving to her reactions.

Breaking eyes contact, she curiously began to pick apart her cooked salmon. She moved her fork on its side to cut through the hearty piece of salmon noticing its butter like texture and desirable pink coloring that spoke of a great piece of cooked fish. She kept her eyes on her food this time unwilling to explore why exactly her chest was beating the way it was and why she couldn't look the demon in his face now. Kagome picked up a piece and brought it to her lips. She blew away the rising steam from her salmon to cool it before she placed it into her mouth.

She couldn't help it this time but smile. Her teeth grazed the metal of her fork as she swept it free of its prize. The small hints of light garnishes were very light and the actual ingredients that were presented on center stage stood out like bright stars. The sampling for the artichoke and the salmon were amazing even in their simplistic form. She finally registered the Japanese ingredient Yuzokosho that was almost invisible until the two came together in her mouth. She looked at the dishes and at the other few samplings he had on the table for her to try with satisfaction. She knew he had done what he had set out to do.

Kagome looked at him again and this time she couldn't think. Her senses were heightened and her imagination had started on this journey that he created. She continued to chew and relish in the savory flavors dancing on her palette so intricately. She continued to share contact as he looked at her without blinking. Instead he moved one of the wine glasses to her finger tips. Her fingers glided up the edge of the stem with his as a guide coaxing her into indulging in the selection of wine he chose for these samplings. The warmth of his fingers tingled her skin as they continued to share eyes contact. She chewed and swallowed her food before taking his cue and drinking a sip from her glass. The wine he selected was a Sancerre which had a zesty flavor that woke up the gentle flavor of the artichokes and the salmon.

Sesshomaru continued to watch her with interest as she gave herself over to the world before her. He watched with the sight of a hawk as she gave everything a once over with careful eyes and verbally noted the techniques she found. She was a woman that was very controlled but here she was excitedly using her hands along with these various sounds to describe her level of enjoyment. She was free in this moment and so willing to show her thoughts and feelings regardless of their eccentric relationship. And he couldn't look away. She turned her dishes around on the plate and ate things separately and then together. Her lips made various sounds ranging on the scales of high pitch tones. Her face spoke clearly of her joys and confusion as she ate her pathway to discovery.

Kagome swallowed and pulled away to set her glass down, daring not to look away from him. The smile that was on her face lingered and her belly finally quieted. Kagome took note of the slight tip of his left side of his lips into dare she say a smile…a pompous one but a smile nonetheless. They were separated by a table of various small dishes and glasses of beverages to accompany them but it felt like it all was shrinking by the moment. Something about the moment seemed intimate suddenly. Kagome grabbed for her glass of water to wash it all away and to give her palate a fresh start. She watched him prepare the next sampling and move it in front of her with excitement.

"So, you do know what you're doing after all." Kagome cheekily spoke as she hid her grin behind her glass of water.

"Of course. This Sesshomaru is well skilled in various aspects of life. I'm surprised you haven't defiled anything yet with the over drenching of salt yet miko." He responded back as she laughed thinking of their first meeting back at her restaurant.

"I only add it to vanquish demons in my restaurant. It's a good organic remedy to vanquish one or two you don't want hanging around. But it must not be working because you're still here." She commented as she drank more water.

His hands worked quickly and confidently before her to prepare the next sample. Conversation flowed between them naturally mixed with the banter and the digs. Within minutes she found herself going into the next sample…and the next….and the next. After a while, Kagome stopped tasting and started experiencing. The little sampling dinner had turned into a test kitchen as Sesshomaru's samples began to mix and match with different dishes and sides. She pushed and pulled at her food detailing everything she witnessed. Tales of childhood and the raising of Rin had come up before moving back onto neutral territory. Her fork had found its way to his lips several times as she coaxed him into mixing his food with other things on the table. The first time he wouldn't dare try her concoctions but slowly he caved in and was surprised at the many tastes she had created from his dishes.

"Stop being so scared." She said as she held the fork out to his lips. "Rin would eat this in a heartbeat. My Rin is fearless." She said one time as she gathered a pairing or items that didn't exactly look like they go together. But he ate it. All of it. Mainly because he would not have his valor compared and demeaned by an overzealous inquiring mind and belly of a pup. The fork soon switched positions and was placed in his hands. Sesshomaru took it upon himself to mix and match himself with her being the test taster. One mix of samples that she tried didn't taste very well. She shivered and pushed the fork away. An act that entertained Sesshomaru as he chuckled and continued his pursuit of finding mixtures of samples and combining them for her to try.

Kagome was surprised to hear him laugh at times. The sound was deep and warm almost reminding her of that of a very dark and rich brand of melted chocolate. The sound came out more and more as she explained what felt like some cosmic understanding about something or another. She began to lose track with much help from her wine. She was talking and her hands went flying in explanation. Sesshomaru would respond back with very simplistic views about whatever point she was making with less grandeur and fluff. He realized later that the miko was subtly signing as she spoke with her hands. Even when she repeated herself at times she would sign with her hands repeatedly as well. The atmosphere was relaxed and the wine flowed until they had reached the last dish.

Kagome had her head rested in the palm of her hand as she smiled at the empty dishes and glasses spread across the table. Her body was warm and her head was a bit fuzzy. She looked at the empty glasses and bottles that sat on the table and sighed in contentment. She shifted her weight and felt her legs had moved underneath her on the seat. Her eyes felt heavy and she began to slowly regret drinking so much of the aged Chardonnay that was meant for a demon's consumption. "I'm excited." Kagome said as she rubbed her neck soothingly. "Everything was fantastic Sesshomaru. You are an amazing chef." She spoke as the wine loosened her tongue and warmed her body into butter.

Sesshomaru tilted his head and took in the rare sight of the woman that he couldn't stand a few months ago. Kagome sat looking rather comfortable and content across from him. Her black hair hung down over one shoulder and her bangs were a bit frizzy having been freed from the scrunchie. He and Kagome had gone through the sample menu for Restaurant Week and did more than just sample the wine. At one point he had to take the bottle meant for youkai away from her knowing that she would be out for days if she drank even more than a cup. But Kagome didn't care. She loved the bitter taste of the wine and spoke up about the origins of the brand he had poured for her to taste. She had more knowledge about things then he originally gave her credit for. Her aura was gentle and soothing despite the pulsing of her power just beneath her skin. He found his posture had slackened and much of his words had left him as they worked their way from one sample to the next. Kagome was rather witty and intelligent but had a very child-like quality about her. He enjoyed her company despite the little smart remarks she would toss out reminding him of her status as being a woman from the Higurashi Clan.

Sesshomaru smirked before he looked to the clock on the wall. He ran his claws through his hair and sighed realizing the night had gotten away from them. He moved to stand and pridefully picked up the plates, silverware, napkins, and glasses. Kagome stood up as well with help of the seat and helped him where she could. She reached for her purse and checked her phone. Her hand went to her forehead at the many missed messages and phone calls. It was later than she realized and she desperately needed to get home.

Sesshomaru stacked everything on the cart and turned to the miko. "Come Kagome. You are in no condition to walk anywhere especially alone."

Kagome put on her coat that was folded behind her and hooked her purse onto her arm. "Thank you." She responded before reaching for a few empty bottles left on the table that wouldn't fit on the cart.

Sesshomaru pushed the cart into the kitchen right. He heard the footsteps of Kagome following behind him as he approached the industrial dish washer. He opened the large device and began filling up the metal tin with the dishes they had used. Kagome managed to walk forward into the large pristine kitchen and looked around with an impressed expression. His kitchen was pretty standard for a chef and without the extra adornments she thought a chef of his status would have. Everything was stainless steel, white, and very clean. His counters were plain and white. She saw the warming stations that were still on that was keeping the food he had made warm. The stoves and the grill were tidy showing only a little bit of use from the night. She held the empty wine bottles that she had carried closer to her body as she looked around where to place them. Suddenly her hands were lifted and the bottles were slowly taken from her fingers gently. She watched Sesshomaru walk across the kitchen and into the back out of sight

Kagome followed him as he left. The quiet conversations and the red seal passed through her mind again. Here he was doing what he loved and he possibly had no idea what was going on behind his back. She had enjoyed his company and found him to be instrumental in the caring of Rin. If the shoe was on the other foot, she would want to know. But she didn't really know Sesshomaru and what he wanted or what he knew. From what she was hearing, no one knew. Kagome thought on the subjects they had touched on but never really cleared the air about. Like his relationship with Rin. Kagome could feel the wine shift her thoughts around like the waves during a storm at sea. She bit her lip and knew that if she would say something if she didn't keep busy. Placing her hands on her hips, she looked around taking note of the few ingredients that were left out and went to put them away.

Sesshomaru walked back into the kitchen and saw Kagome searching cabinets and putting things away where she thought they went. He turned the warming stations off and took the remaining food to put away into containers. Once finished, he went back to the cart and tended to the glasses they used. He loaded them into the next washer. He turned on the machines and placed it on the correct settings before starting them up to cleanse. The sound of water washing inside filled the silence left between them.

"Why do you care so much?"

The Inu demon turned his head to see the miko leaning against the counter with a pensive expression. She looked at him directly with her lips pouted. Her eyes were wide from the alcohol and her cheeks were pink as well. Her skin held a glow to it as she tried to look at him with a serious expression. Sesshomaru said nothing but raised his eyebrow at her question.

The warmth of the wine continued to spread throughout her body. Kagome knew what she had garnered was nothing more than liquid courage to ask the questions that had been bugging her for months now. Pride would not allow her to do this another time and she was sure there wouldn't be another moment of authenticity and privacy with the Inu Prince. She licked her lips again already feeling the beginnings of the symptom "cotton mouth" and tried again. "I don't understand you. Why do you care so much about Rin? What is it with you and the Yomi's. And why are you with that…that monster of a woman when you don't love her or like her…or anything else?" Kagome asked exasperated as she threw up her arms. "Is it because you're Apexing? Finally?"

Sesshomaru was shocked. His eyes widened as she said the word that no other had uttered to him. 'How did she know?' The rush of her questions had momentarily stuck him. The whole night he did not think of his present situation. He looked at the miko as she continued to stare back at him. He had questions of his own that clouded his mind such as where she got her information from and why ask all of these things now? How much did she actually drink? He knew humans had a very low tolerance and most likely they shouldn't have gone through so many bottles. Needing to gain some ground he questioned her about her skeletons. "Why do you hesitate to speak up about your siblings and your apparent distant relationship that you have with them?" He countered as he stood straight and narrowed his eyes at her. He called forth his power to burn a bit of the alcohol in his body to hopefully free his mind.

Kagome sputtered. "T-t-that's not fair! You can't answer my question with a question. And it's none of your business about my family! I asked a question regarding Rin's relationship with you which doesn't involve others." She fired back at him. Her cheeks and ears were heated and she could feel the blood flowing in her veins. The heat of her powers sizzled just below the surface.

"And I asked a question about you which last time I checked, you are her temporary guardian. And your family issues does directly affect Rin's growth and behavior thus making your relationship with your pack members my business." He countered with a frosty bite to his words. His demonic aura began to rise and he was finding it hard to bite back his temper thanks to the alcohol. Slowly he could feel his high ebbing away but it did very little to placate him. "And I'll answer your questions when you have answered mine."

Kagome inhaled sharply at his words. Never had anyone spoken to her in such a way nor demanded to know about her family affairs. This wasn't how she pictured the conversation to go. But then again she didn't exactly plan to ask these things either. They were having a great time and then it had begun to spiral out of control.

Why did he have to go and ruin it?

Why couldn't he just answer her question?

Why did he have to go there?

Kagome took a step back and found her butt had hit the edge of a counter. "I don't need to explain anything to you!" She spat gripping the counter harshly and looking for an exit. She moved her head too quickly and grew instantly dizzy from the movement. "I got to get out of here." She muttered as she moved to walk away with a slight tilt in her steps. The tingling sensation of her miko powers rose with her temper.

"I heard you were a runner." He spoke walking forward into her space, blocking her way out. Something about having the miko caught between his claws excited him and angered him at the same time. "But I particularly don't like to hunt weak game."

Her head spun towards him and she looked up, keeping eye contact with him. "What?" She asked breathlessly. "I'm not weak! Did Kikyo say-"

"No miko." He silenced her. "The fact that you are so ready to have Kikyo as the cause of this predicament you are now in speaks volumes. If you must know, your previous actions led me to this belief about you. Remember in my Beta's kitchen you were questioned by my alpha and you dodged her questions and ran. You're doing so now. You're a coward. A weakling above everything else."

"I am not!" She responded shakily. Her tear ducts began to flow with moisture and her hands shook as she braced herself against the white countertop. The warmth that she felt from the wine began to shift to that of another heat source. An organic one that began to push out against her skin and sizzle his. "I'm not weak!"

"Hn." He responded with a scoff at her reaction. He felt the warning of her miko powers brewing. His instincts rushed forward putting him on alert. Formidable they were but he would bet his skills and resilience was far greater against the untrained miko that he knew she was. "Prove it, miko." He spoke standing to his full height and making to walk away now done with the conversation.

"I'm not! I'm afraid." She yelled out watching as he turned his back to her. This angered her even more. "Come back here!" She yelled and walked right behind him. Something inside her was caged and it wanted out. She was tired of this. She knew this is what people must be thinking about her all the time. No one cared to ask her how she felt. What she had gone through. She was not weak. And she certainly didn't want to take that comment from some arrogant prince who took culinary as a hobby because he had billions of dollars to fall back on, including a clan to help when he needed it. She tossed her purse on the table and stood still. She clutched her fists at her sides. "Stop and face me dammit!"

Sesshomaru paused in his steps. Her voice was strong and the base she put in her voice was commanding. He stood still but he did not turn around. The tension in the room was thick between them. His clawed fingers dangled at his side with a twitch. How he could picture this moment in another lifetime. A great grassy field would have spanned with them standing on opposite sides. The wind whipping in his hair blowing her scent into his nose as he prepared for battle. The moon hanging in between them…blood sworn enemies. His sword would be at his side and she would have held probably a bow and arrow aimed at his head. But here they were, in his kitchen. The sound of the dish washer working in the background was nearly silenced by the deep breaths she was taking. He stood still waiting for her response.

Kagome sighed looking down at the white floors before turning around to brace her hands against the counter. Her knuckles had tightened and she was shaking with anger, distress, and other thoughts and emotions that crowed her cerebrum and heart. There was a reason she tried not to talk or think about it all. She had so many depending on her now that it was too late to go back and revisit the past. She couldn't afford to be weak as he called it. Her eyes were blurry and her nose became clogged. Her ears burned from mortification. She could feel herself coming undone. The humiliation and chaos she felt when she was crying in the alley behind the Shikon where Inuyasha found her was coming back. She couldn't do this in front of him too. In front of Sesshomaru. He called her weak for not answering his questions and here she was breaking down like some idiot.

But what would he think of her now? He clearly knew something.

Would he use that against her?

Could he do that? Would he tell the others of her moment of weakness?

Would they use this to take Rin away?

Her mind began to swim and she felt suddenly nauseous. Sink or swim. The day of reckoning had come and in the back of an arrogant demon prince's kitchen too. A prince that so happen to have a past with Rin. The irony. Everything began to fall apart before her. But she had to say something to him. She couldn't walk around like some loon on the verge of tears all the time. Ready to break. She had to tell him. But could she trust him? A garbled sound came up as she fought to hold back the dam ready to break. The alcohol within her had betrayed her. It lowered her defenses and Sesshomaru's company that night brought her into a false sense of security. It made her believe in something. What that something was, she did not know. Kagome felt her body shaking and something wet had fallen onto her hands. She looked down to see droplets of water crashing against her skin.

"I-I lost" She mumbled before her hands came up and cupped her face. Kagome realized that she was shaking now. Tears ran down her face and her mouth started to quiver. Here she was going down a slippery slope and this time…there might not be anything left of her pride when Sesshomaru got through with her.

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