Her skin was still rough with goosebumps when she woke, and she shivered even though the warmth of the beast's fur permeated her clothing.
The sun poked its head through violet clouds, reflecting off the newly fallen snow and making it seem later than it was. Taking a deep breath, Kagome stretched and got to her feet, padding around the cottage.
The beast watched her with curious eyes, and she smiled, showing him a bowl of uncooked rice. "I don't suppose you want any?"
He snorted, sending a few grains flying, and her smile only broadened as she stoked the fire, adding another log before placing the mixture over the embers. She took a few minutes to wash her face, then resumed her position against his side, eyes unseeing as her mind wandered.
"Do youkai dream?" she asked, playing with a frayed stitch on her yukata. "I know you don't sleep as much, but you must dream, right?" She felt the beast still behind her and placed a reassuring hand on his head. If they did dream, they probably had nightmares too, so she didn't push the issue, not wanting him to relive something traumatic.
Her mother soon joined them, and Kagome allowed herself to be pushed towards the bathroom, allowing Emiko to deal with the rest of breakfast while she bathed.
And all the while, the beast's gaze never left her, fixated on the closed door, unperturbed by the sound of clinking dishes.
"What does she dream of?"
Emiko chuckled softly, then gave him a knowing look. "The same thing you do."
