A week passes.

He doesn't call her, doesn't answer hers. But even though he's ignoring her, he can feel her confusion and taste her hurt.

Hey, are you okay?

Still, he doesn't respond.

Sesshoumaru, did I do something?

Throwing his pen, he pinches the bridge of his nose and tries to tune out the guilt threatening to overwhelm him. With each attempt to reach him, he feels heavier, more tired. But it changes nothing, and he persists in his solitude.

Overlooks that he's all but moved into his office to avoid her.

Another text alerts.

He shuts off his phone.