Wednesday, December 9th.

Kagome hummed to herself, while sitting at her table in her kitchen. She should have gone Christmas shopping Monday evening and she definitely should have gone Tuesday after work, but she had had so much fun hanging out with Inuyasha Monday and texting him all Tuesday evening that she had neglected her preparations.

Christmas was a little over two weeks away and she still needed to get gifts for her family and friends. Now though, she would have to wait for the weekend to do the actual shopping. But, if she made a list now it should, in theory, go more smoothly.

So, Kagome sat there, at her table, staring at a blank lined note pad, pen in hand, trying to think of what she could get her friends, her family, and maybe even…

Her gaze lifted, looking out through her window. She stiffened for a moment, able to clearly see Inuyasha in his kitchen, staring into the fridge looking for something. There were no curtains on his windows, giving her an almost unobstructed view of him through hers. Kagome dragged her bottom lip between her teeth, watching him intently. He was wearing the same red hoodie she'd seen him in on Monday, but his sweat pants were grey and more worn than the hoodie.

"I knew it," she mumbled to herself, resting her head in her hand as he took a seat at his island across the small divide. She could clearly make out his amber gaze and how it fixated on the computer in front of him. Kagome felt like she could hear the tapping of his claws on the keyboard and his bored sighs between sips of water.

A lone index finger came up, gently tapping on her lip, as Kagome wondered what she should get for her new favorite neighbor for Christmas.

Thursday, December 10th.

He'd stayed up late the prior evening working to finish a project so that he wouldn't have to deal with it that evening. The Patriots and L.A. Rams were playing and after the most recent meeting with his boss, there was nothing more Inuyasha wanted to do than fall asleep watching those teams play each other.

As if the universe was openly laughing at his plans, Inuyasha spotted a case of beer on his door step with an ivory card stuck inside as soon as he pulled into the drive.

Inuyasha was at his door in milliseconds, instantly forgetting his notions of falling asleep alone on his couch as he ripped open the card.

Game at my place tonight? :)

Kagome H.

'Hell fucking yes,' he thought, grinning over at her unit. Inuyasha texted her to let her know he'd be over after he changed.

Kagome wiggled in excitement when she read his message. She couldn't wait. She had been thinking about him all day, her fingers itching to text him any and every inane thing that popped into her head because she was so desperate to just engage with him. Not thirty minutes later she heard a knock at her door. Kagome quickly opened it and gestured for him to come inside. He was wearing the hoodie and black sweatpants again.

Kagome smirked, now knowing for sure that he was trying to look effortless though effort had indeed been expended. Still, she wasn't going to complain, he was there and that's all she really wanted. He looked good in everything… 'and maybe in nothing too…'

From the moment Inuyasha stepped inside, his nose was bombarded with a mouthwatering array of scents, none of them related to Kagome's natural essence, but all delicious.

"Did you-did you cook?" He asked, surprised. Inuyasha had expected pizza or fried chicken again, maybe even Chinese take-out, but not a home cooked meal.

"Okay, so… here's the deal." Kagome began, a cheeky smile in place as she looked up at him through her long eye lashes. "I need help taste testing a variety of recipes and was wondering if you would help me?" Kagome worried her lip nervously waiting for a response.

Inuyasha's honey eyes widened at the same time his smile broadened, his excitement written all over his face. Kagome beamed back at him, grabbing his hand and pulling him into the kitchen with her.

Even such a small and insignificant touch as holding his hand and guiding him toward food made Inuyasha feel like he was bathing in sun light. He almost whimpered when they reached the kitchen and she released her grip, the joyful warmth of her body heat evaporating far too quickly.

Kagome's island and kitchen table were both covered in at least a dozen small batches of different finger foods. "Okay, so I need to pick the four best dishes." Kagome stated, placing her hands on those delicious curves of hers, pulling his gaze from the food for half a second. Okay, Kagome distracted him for a full second, but that was all!

"Why? What is all of this for?" Inuyasha asked, his nose twitching as he took in more of the delectable scents, already salivating.

"I throw a Christmas party every year and I need to figure out what I want to serve this year," Kagome explained.

"Okay, so top four?"

"Top four," she confirmed, delighting in the boyish smile on his face. He looked like he was vibrating with glee as his hungry eyes surveyed the different options. Kagome chuckled to herself before handing him a plate. "Game starts in twenty so-"

Inuyasha didn't waste any time. He let his nose pick for him grabbing a handful of this, a couple of that, avoiding that little shit in the middle that smelled like curry, and more of whatever that cheesy looking thing was. Kagome watched as he filled his plate, leaving both the curry and the buffalo chicken wontons untouched. "Huh," she muttered. "Those are usually big hits."

"They are spicy," he pointed out.

"Ah," she giggled, grabbing several of those for herself, making a mental note not to make him spicy foods in the future. 'Why are you even worrying about that?' She internally chastised, 'it's not like he's your boyfriend or anything.' "Ready?" Kagome asked, motioning toward her living room. He nodded, following her in. "T.V. isn't quite as big as yours," she mentioned taking a seat on the couch.

"Nah, but you actually live in a home," Inuyasha commented off-handedly, noticing all the warm personal touches that surrounded them. It almost made the idea of going back to his unit with the minimally decorated walls and mis-matched furniture unpleasant.

"Your place is homey too, just, in a different way," Kagome offered.

"Liar," he remarked, shoving one of the cheesy appetizers into his mouth. If Inuyasha wasn't in love with her before he definitely was now. Never in his life had he had something so unassuming yet utterly delightful. "What is this?!"

"Fried mac and cheese bites," Kagome laughed. "You really do enjoy the simpler things, huh?"

He narrowed his eyes at her, still chewing and savoring the little ball of heaven.

"I don't mean it as an insult!" She quickly added, "just that… I don't know…" Kagome tapped a finger on her lip, trying to think. "It's refreshing to be able to just relax around you. Like, you didn't even care that I forgot to add parmesan to that!"

"I mean, I care now. What kind of monster forgets parmesan?" Inuyasha teased, turning away and trying to hide the transient blush that singed his cheeks. He'd been told he was a lot of things, not once had anyone said he was relaxing to be around. Well, until her. Not even Kikyo ever seemed to really take joy in his presence like Kagome did. It was… odd. She was odd.

Kagome rolled her eyes, still smiling, and instead of verbally responding she turned on the game for that evening. "I won't forget it next time, promise."

Friday, December 11th.

Kagome sat at her kitchen table, cards in hand, tapping her finger nails along the wood surface. She checked the time on her phone again. It was nearly 9pm and she was getting tired. It had been a long week of trying to teach rowdy children who were either just beginning Hanukkah celebrations or excited for next week to be their last week before winter break. Regardless of which group the kids fell into, they had all been extra rambunctious and, well, Kagome had been extra distracted by a certain tall drink of water that lived next door.

She had had so much fun taste testing the appetizers and watching the game with Inuyasha and reliving the small moments - like when they got into a disagreement over who should win the game and ended up throwing pillows at each other or the ridiculous manner in which he had eaten around the edges of the buffalo chicken wontons and adamantly refused to eat the cheesy middle! - that she almost missed a kid trying to lick another kid's eyeball during free play, which was not great on her part for barely stopping… Kagome was also nervous. She had planned on inviting Inuyasha and his friend to her Christmas party. Hence the two hand crafted cards in her hand.

Problem was that Inuyasha had been a no-show all evening. Kagome wanted to give it to him in person. She knew she could just drop it off at his door like she'd done in the past or even just slip it into his mailbox, but she also really wanted to just see him again. And, you know, if he invited her in and they hung out until the wee morning hours, so what?!

They were adults…

The memory of their pillow fight begged to differ, but Kagome just sighed.

Despite her determination, alas, the universe had other plans. Or at least, Inuyasha did. So, instead of spending the evening with him, Kagome had spent it staring out her kitchen window, looking for his car and wondering if he was out with some one else. No way a man as fun and kind as him was single.

Kagome sighed heavily, sinking in her seat, resting her head on her arm, still looking out toward his drive. Her lids began to feel heavy and before she knew it, consciousness slipped away.

About an hour later, Inuyasha parked outside his unit. He massaged his temples with the pads of his fingers while walking toward the door to his apartment. It had been a long, strenuous day at work. What with his boss popping up every five seconds to ask about the same project and Miroku on his ass about getting that Sango chick's number from his neighbor, it was more than enough to give him a killer headache. Then he'd had to work late. Whatever, his end of year bonus would be amazing.

'Maybe I can use it to take Kagome to a game?' Inuyasha thought idly to himself as he walked into his kitchen to grab a quick snack. He looked over, out toward her unit and almost dropped his food when he saw her. Inuyasha shook his head and grinned. The silly woman had fallen asleep with half her interior lights on and was drooling on her kitchen table. It was both hilarious and one hundred percent adorable.

'Yeah,' he thought, 'I'm taking her to a game with me with that bonus money.'

Saturday December 12th.

"I can't believe I'm doing this for your girlfriend-who-isn't-even-your-girlfriend," Miroku complained, walking into the third toy store of the day.

"Oh stop your whining," groaned Inuyasha, who was carrying all of the bags of toys that Miroku had purchased to help Kagome's toy drive. "You're getting something out of this too."

"Right," he mumbled, grabbing some toy robot and a fox off the shelf, tossing each into the basket on his arm. "Speaking of which, when will I see miss Sango again? Seeing as you won't give me her number…"

"I don't have her number," Inuyasha reminded.

"No, but you could easily get it…"

"That wasn't part of the deal!"

"Ugh, fine," Miroku mumbled, grabbing a few more toys from the shelves and walking over to the register. "You know, I haven't seen you care about… anything… this much since Kikyo."

"Stop," growled Inuyasha. "We aren't doing this now and certainly not with a Pikachu staring at me."

"Better than a Muk," Miroku commented handing over his credit card.

"A what?"

"It's another type of pokemon. Not super friendly, whereas Pikachu is cute and adorable."

Inuyasha merely rolled his eyes, uninterested in engaging further on the topic. Miroku took his card back and handed Inuyasha the bag as they strolled out of the toy store. "Oh, my my my," Miroku grinned, looking at Inuyasha and taking a few of the bags back suddenly.

"What are you doing?" Inuyasha muttered, bewildered by Miroku's abrupt enthusiasm.

"It looks like fate has decided to intervene and relieve me of my longing to be reunited with Sango." He exclaimed, walking straight for two brunettes exiting the food court.

"Oh, fuck," Inuyasha bemoaned before dashing after his depraved friend.

"Hello ladies!" Miroku sang as he approached. Both turned around slowly. Sango immediately sighed then rolled her eyes, while Kagome briefly looked at Miroku before noticing Inuyasha walk up next to him.

"Hey," Sango answered flatly.

"Hi," Kagome squeaked, sapphire eyes wide as they took in the half-demon standing before her. Sango turned to look at her friend, almost bursting into laughter when she noticed the blush staining Kagome's cheeks.

"What brings you both here on this fine day?" Miroku continued, unperturbed by Sango's clear lack of interest in him.

"Christmas shopping, same as you it looks like." Sango replied, nodding toward the array of bags both men were carrying.

Kagome shifted on her feet, slowly sliding the single bag she had behind her back to keep from nosy eyes.

"Fun, fun," Miroku commented. "So, do either of you have plans tomorrow? I hear at least one of you is a big football fan, and well… you know… football Sunday is tomorrow…"

Sango snorted, "I wouldn't touch anything in your apartment with a ten foot pole."

"Well, good news for you then, because Inuyasha is hosting," Miroku grinned, looking over at his surprised friend.

"I am?"

"Yes, he is, because he owes me." Miroku muttered, narrowing his eyes at Inuyasha. "Remember? For the favor I'm currently doing you?"

"What favor is that?" Kagome asked innocently.

"Just helping him spread joy this holiday season, it's my specialty." Miroku answered. "So, I'll see you both tomorrow? At his place? I'm sure Kagome and Inuyasha can work out the details."

"My team is playing tomorrow…" Sango mentioned, thinking it over. "Okay, we'll come over."

"Great!" Exclaimed Miroku, nodding vigorously.

"I'll have Kagome text you," Sango purred, looking directly at Inuyasha before waving bye to the boys.

As they walked away, Kagome practically skipped next to Sango. "Oh… my… god…" Sango chuckled.

"What?!" Kagome asked, turning to her suddenly.

"You have it so bad for him! You were blushing the entire time!"

"I was not!"

"Were too!"

"Was not!"

"Were too!"

"Whatever, so what, I like him?" She muttered, picking at her nails nervously.

"Kagome, I'm excited for you," Sango replied, draping an arm lovingly around her friend. "But, maybe, next time? Say more than three words to him in public."

Sunday, December 13th.

Inuyasha sprinted out of bed that morning. His body was thrumming with excitement. He could not wait to see Kagome again and for several hours! She and Sango were coming over for the first game at 1pm and staying until Sango's team played. Sango's team which was the Steelers playing at the 8:30pm slot. Thus, he would be able to spend the majority of the day with Kagome.

Sure, Miroku and Sango would unfortunately also be present, but it was the price he paid for making a deal with the devil. But, said deal was also going to make Kagome so happy! Inuyasha was dying to see that big, bright smile of hers later that week when he dropped off the presents for her toy drive.

It had been ages since Inuyasha felt as good as he did that morning. Even his morning run felt like less of a chore and more interesting than it normally did.

Kagome also woke up excited, though not with nearly the same energy level of her half-demon neighbor. As she did most mornings, Kagome rolled out of bed, yawning and trying to wipe away the grogginess from her eyes as she made her way to the kitchen to make coffee. She was used to waking up before the rest of the world, though was pleasantly surprised to see the sun up before her.

Standing in her kitchen, Kagome turned on the coffee maker and set up her mug when there was a knock at her door. She found it peculiar seeing as it was well before 1pm and Sango wasn't supposed to be over until noon at the earliest. Still, Kagome walked over and checked the peep hole.

No one.

Kagome opened the door slightly, to get a better look, then noticed a tiny silver box, wrapped in a gold bow sitting innocently on her doorstep.

"What the…" she muttered, stepping out and gingerly picking it up, half expecting it to be a prank. Kagome looked around again. Not a single soul seemed to be up or moving around. "How odd," Kagome mused.

Tenderly, Kagome pulled at the ribbon, untying it and slowly lifting the lid to the silver box. Inside lay an ornamental bird. It was delicate and beautiful, though a little confusing to Kagome. 'Who just goes around leaving ornaments on people's doorsteps?'

She stepped out further, looking around to see what her neighbors may have gotten, when Kagome realized that she was the only one with a gift. She looked back down at it briefly before putting the lid back on and walking inside. 'Very odd indeed.'

Sango arrived a few hours later, barging in as if she owned the place. "Kagome!" She sang, closing the door behind her. "I'm here!"

"Hey!" Kagome exclaimed, coming up to hug her friend.

"Heading over in like thirty right?" Sango confirmed.

"Yes, but before we go, can you take a look at something for me?" Kagome asked, directing her friend toward the kitchen.

"Sure, what's up?" Sango questioned, following Kagome's lead.

"Some one left this for me this morning and I'm a little confused." She began, placing the box down in front of Sango.

Sango slowly lifted the lid and peered in. "Is this a joke?"

"What? What do you mean?"

"Kagome, that's a partridge."

"A what?"

"The bird!" Sango exclaimed. "That's a partridge."

"Since when do you know about birds?" Kagome mumbled, looking between the ornament and Sango.

"My family hunts, anyway, not the point. You were given a partridge."

"Okay…"

"Let me know if you get something related to doves tomorrow." Sango asked, patting Kagome on the back.

"Doves?"

"Yeah, doves."

"That's weird."

Sango merely laughed, then placed the lid back on the gift. "We should head out, the boys might be expecting us."

"Right, oh, but can't forget these!" Kagome answered, leaning over and grabbing the two hand crafted invitations Kagome had made.

"Oh come on!" Sango whined. "I'm totally on board with inviting Inuyasha, but do we have to invite Miroku?"

"Yes! He's charming!"

"Please, a raccoon dog is more charming than Miroku," Sango grumbled heading toward the door.

"Please be nice! I really like Inuyasha…"

"If Miroku places his hand on my knee one more time… I'm breaking his hand."

"I think that's a fair compromise," Kagome responded as they walked the short distance to Inuyasha's unit. "Maybe, just give him a warning before doing that though. You know, 'tis the season."

"Ugh, you and your Christmas spirit." Teased Sango as she came up, lifting her hand to knock on the door, though her knuckles never made contact.

As soon as they stepped up to the entryway, the door swung open with an ecstatic Miroku on the other side. "Welcome ladies!" He boomed excitedly before shifting out of the way to let them enter.

"Hi," Sango responded dryly.

"Hey!" Kagome answered, enthusiastically making eye contact with Miroku then searching for Inuyasha.

"Ol' grumpy bones is in the kitchen," Miroku whispered knowingly.

"Oh, uh, thanks. Actually, I wanted to give you both something," Kagome mumbled. "I have these for you," she continued, blushing when she entered the kitchen and came face-to-face with her sexy neighbor who was in a red and black flannel that made him, some how, even sexier than normal. It was unfair, really, how amazing he looked in that.

"Oh sweet, what's this?" Exclaimed Miroku, taking the one with his name from her.

Inuyasha took his more slowly, trying not to seem overly eager and trying not to let the adorable blush that currently adorned her cheeks go to his ego.

"You're having a holiday party?" Miroku grinned, smiling from ear to ear, gaze darting between Kagome and Sango as if asking if they would both be in attendance.

"Uh, yeah, I do it every year," Kagome answered, quickly looking between Inuyasha and Miroku. "I've really enjoyed getting to spend time with you so I thought it would be fun to have you both at the party."

"I didn't. I only wanted to invite Inuyasha," Sango interjected. "Just to be clear."

"Ah, so you will be going too?" Miroku asked, unfazed by Sango's comments.

"Yes, I will be there." She begrudgingly answered.

"So will I then," Miroku quickly added, before nudging Inuyasha.

"Uh, yeah, sounds great." Inuyasha responded.

"Cool," Kagome grinned, tilting her head down and away as she tucked a piece of hair behind her ear.

"Great, now that that's settled, where's the beer?" Sango sighed.

"Right this way, milady." Miroku directed, guiding her to the fridge.

"You touch me at all today… I will break your hand." She warned, walking next to him to grab an ale. "Understood?"

"One hundred percent, Sango."

Monday, December 14th.

The air had turned into a biting cold that would quickly and easily chill Kagome to the bone if she hadn't bundled up in her hat, overstuffed puffer jacket, and gloves. She stepped out of her unit that morning and immediately shivered as the air caressed her exposed cheeks.

As she stepped out, closing the door behind her to lock it before heading to the school to start her work day, her foot hit a small wrapped box. 'Another?' she thought, locking the door then bending down to pick it up. Kagome held it in her hands, noticing how light it felt.

Again, the gift was unmarked and unclaimed. Left only for her.

Kagome pulled the ribbon then opened the lid, a booming laugh escaping when she realized what it was.

A box of chocolate turtles.

She grinned to herself, admiring the sweet treats and shaking her head in disbelief. Kagome closed the lid to the gift box and walked to her car, pulling out her phone as she made her way over. Once in the safety of her car, Kagome sent Sango a quick text message before driving to work.

[Got another gift. Wait for it… Chocolate turtles.] - Kagome H.

[Which brand?] - Sango.

[Dove chocolate brand.] - Kagome H.

[Ha! You did get turtle doves! I am good. ;) ] - Sango.

Sitting in her classroom, at the end of the day, Kagome twirled the gold ribbon on the gift box in her hand. She had snuck a chocolate turtle earlier. It had been delicious and had her wondering who would be sending her such gifts?

When she had stepped out earlier that morning no one had been around. The street had been silent and dark, like it usually was when she left in winter. Kagome rarely met people who were up at the same time she was, let alone those who woke up early enough to sneak a gift to her before work.

It was exciting thinking about it. She was giddy pondering who might be leaving her gifts, or rather, she was hopeful that a certain neighbor was the one leaving them for her.

'Speaking of,' she thought to herself. It was Monday night. There was another game on that evening. Kagome was eager to see if Inuyasha was free and potentially interested in seeing the game with her, as was quickly becoming their routine.

[Want to come over to mine for game night? :) ] - Kagome H.

[Sorry! Not feeling well tonight. Rain check?] - Inuyasha

Kagome deflated instantly. She hadn't realized how much she had been looking forward to seeing him until the option was no longer available. She subconsciously reached over to eat another chocolate turtle, hoping that would make her feel better.

As she munched on her sweet treat, Kagome bounced her leg and wondered what to do with herself that evening instead. "Maybe Sango will want to see the game with me," she mumbled to herself, dialing her best friend.

"Hey!" Sango exclaimed at the other end of the line.

"Hey, wanna watch the Browns game with me?"

"Haven't you been watching the games with Inu-Ya-Sha?" Sango purposely stretched out his name in a teasing manner, knowing full well that Kagome was more interested in being with him.

"He's not feeling well this evening…"

"So? Make him soup and make sure he takes his meds."

"I'm not his mother!" Kagome answered, rolling her eyes and worrying her lip. "Though, the soup idea isn't so bad… I guess…"

"There you go! Now, off with you. I have to finish this brief before morning."

"Thanks Sango." Kagome grinned as she hung up and grabbed her bag. Her mother was famous back home for her homemade soup and Kagome was suddenly excited to be able to make it for her new favorite neighbor.

A few hours later, it was nearing game time and Kagome bundled both herself and her soup up in extra layers to keep them warm. She sighed contently at her handiwork as she stepped out of her home and walked over to Inuyasha's unit.

Kagome took a moment to look up at the night sky. When she used to live in the city, she would have to strain to see the stars in the evening, but out in the suburbs they were more visible. Her sapphire eyes traced the various constellations that she could recall before Kagome noticed something was missing: the moon. "Huh, must be a new moon this evening," she muttered to herself as she crossed the small patch of grass that divided their townhouses.

She took a deep breath as she stepped up to his unit, worrying her bottom lip. Kagome was more than a little nervous. Her heart pounded in her chest and the self-conscious part of her was screamed, 'this is weird! Neighbors don't just bring each other soup! He's not well!' Kagome ignored the thoughts and knocked on his door hoping for the best.

She waited, shifting from foot to foot anxiously as the minutes ticked by.

Kagome knocked again for good measure, peeking around the entryway to see if any lights were on. She could see light coming from the kitchen and living area through the reflections on her windows. She turned to her other side and saw his car parked in the drive. 'He's… he's definitely home…'

She continued to chew on her lip, doubts and feelings of self-consciousness doubling with each passing second. 'Oh no… what if… what if… he's watching the game with someone else?!'

Frowning, she placed the soup on his step, slowly backing away from the door. 'I-I should have texted.' Kagome pulled out her phone, trying not to let the disappointment continue to crush her spirit. Just as she turned away, she heard the door creak open. Before even laying eyes on him, Kagome began to hurriedly apologize. "I'm so sorry! I should've just let you res-"

Kagome's mouth snapped shut, her head tilting to the side as her brows knit in total bewilderment. "Uh, do you… do you have pink eye?" She asked, taking a step toward him, her sapphire gaze dragging over Inuyasha. He stood before her with a ball cap and the hood of his hoodie pulled above the hat, obscuring most of his head and face, while large aviator-like sunglasses sat perched on the bridge of his nose blocking any and all access to his eyes.

"Yeah, let's go with that," he muttered. "What are you doing here?"

"I, uh, I brought you soup," Kagome responded, trailing off at the end as she lifted her hand and pointed toward the bowl on the ground next to him. "I thought it would make you feel better…"

"Oh, erm, thanks," he replied softly turning to glance down at it, unaware of the stray piece of hair from his bangs that had managed to free itself, poking out from his hat.

Kagome stepped closer, eyes glued to the dark strands breaking through, unthinkingly she reached out.

He didn't notice her until it was too late, as her fingers gripped the lock of obsidian hair. Inuyasha reflexively pulled away.

"Are you wearing a wig?" She asked, coming up to him and reaching for his hair again.

"Would you cut it out?!" He growled, one of his hands coming to grip her wrist. Inuyasha watched her gaze travel down from his forehead to the hand wrapped around hers. His totally normal, human hand. Not a claw in sight. Her obnoxiously adorable eyes widened in recognition before her free hand gently tipped his sunglasses downward, exposing his eyes.

Inuyasha swallowed thickly, his heart pounding in his chest. This was not how he had wanted her to find out about his night of vulnerability. This is not how he wanted things with her to end… because, this is when they usually did. When it sunk in that he was merely… half. Half a demon. Half a man. Never wholly what his partners wanted and they left. It hurt that, now, Inuyasha would never get the chance to see what he and Kagome even could have been…

He winced slightly, waiting for the rejection to crash into him and knock him on his ass. The rejection that… never came. Instead, he watched her smile.

"Ah, I see," she murmured, eyes dancing in delight before leaving his and looking over at the forgotten soup. "Huh, so, uh, do you… do you want to keep the soup?"

"What?!" Inuyasha practically stammered, "you're worried about the soup?"

"Well, I don't want to force it on you!" She exclaimed, her cheeks burning red. "I-I thought you were sick and-and I don't want you to feel obligated to try it!"

"You find out I'm a half-demon and that it's my night of vulnerability and you're worried about the soup?!"

"Well yeah! You'll be fine, what? Tomorrow?!" Kagome laughed. "I'm relieved you don't have pink eye or a cold or someone else ov-" She quickly shut her mouth again, clenching her jaw and eyes widening at what she prayed he didn't hear her say. Looking at the ground, Kagome began to shuffle back to her unit. "So, I'll just, uh, give you some privacy then."

Inuyasha rolled his eyes and removed the sunglasses, fully exposing his coal colored eyes. "Kagome, just come in and watch the fucking game with me."

"Are you sure? I don't want to intrude…" she mumbled, fidgeting with her fingers, her cheeks burning despite the cold evening air.

He couldn't help the way the corners of his lips twitched up into a cheeky grin. Inuyasha had heard what she said and, frankly, he was still processing it. Kagome had been more worried about him feeling forced into trying her soup and more worried that he had decided to watch the game with some one other than her, than she had been about the revelation of his heritage. For a moment, it had even seemed like it was a bonus to her. He kept replaying the way her eyes had lit up as understanding dawned on her. That was normally when others reacted with disgust and tried to pull away from him. But Kagome? Just one look at her and he could tell the color on her cheeks wasn't entirely from the cold. He knew that inviting her in was the right decision when she nibbled playfully on her bottom lip, her eyes filling with excitement as they met his.

"Yes, just come in. It's fucking cold out here," Inuyasha replied, turning and heading back to his apartment, making sure to grab the bowl of soup on his way in.

Kagome squealed in excitement, running up to him and bumping him playfully as she came up to walk side-by-side with him. "I'm so excited! I've been waiting to watch the game with you all day!"

He scoffed, unable to stop his own cheeks from taking on a bit of color. She was so excited to be near him, it was… such a sweet and utterly foreign concept to him.

Inuyasha closed the door behind him and turned, startled to see her standing inches from him. "What?" He muttered, blinking quickly.

"Are you going to take off the hood and the hat?" Kagome asked, sounding like a small child waiting to unwrap gifts.

"Uh, y-yeah," he murmured, slowly pulling off both, his dark hair falling forward as a tiny gasp escaped from Kagome.

"Wow," she breathed, her hand coming up absentmindedly brushing along his cheek before sifting through his hair. "Is your hair always this soft?"

"I guess?" He answered, swallowing quietly. Inuyasha could still feel the heat from where her fingers had swept across his skin and was surprised that he could still make out hints of her scent. She smelled amazing, as always. Kagome remained there, inches from him, her fingers combing through his hair softly all while his heart pounded vigorously in his chest, sounding like a drum in his ears. She was so close and her touch felt so tender, he wanted to bask in it.

Instead, he backed up shyly, clearing his throat and looking toward the living room where the T.V. was on, the game having already started. "So, should we, erm, head in?"

Kagome seemed to have forgotten for a moment that she had come over to watch the game. She blinked in confusion before remembering her purpose. "Yes!" She exclaimed, turning and following him to the other room.

Inuyasha frowned for a moment, he usually loved being able to take in her scent, but right now he couldn't even get that light whiff he'd had by the door and he already missed it. He groaned internally, berating himself for letting his nervousness pull him away from her as they took a seat on the couch.

Trying to subtly peak over at her, Inuyasha let his gaze fall to the side. In his periphery, Inuyasha could see Kagome facing him. Those big, dark blue eyes staring at him. He turned, raising a questioning eye brow. "What?"

"You just… you look so similar and yet so different," she giggled.

He sighed, "is… is that a problem?" Inuyasha's voice quivered slightly and he felt his body tense involuntarily waiting for her answer.

"Why would it be a problem?" Kagome laughed.

"What's so funny?" He asked, a small growl coming from his chest.

"Just, it's the farthest thing from a problem for me," Kagome mumbled, fiddling nervously with her fingers. "I-I know this is a big thing for you, I had a couple half-demon friends in college, and… yeah…"

"You're just happy I'm not watching the game with some one else…" he teased, watching her cheeks turn bright red. Now it was his turn to laugh.

"What I'm trying to say," she continued, swatting him playfully though refusing to make eye contact out of embarrassment, "is that I won't tell anyone about your human nights and I'm grateful you let me be here with you tonight."

Inuyasha nodded, leaning back in the couch, trying in vain to ignore that when Kagome had lightly smacked him she had moved a few inches closer… and she hadn't shifted away from him. Kagome sat so close he could feel the heat from her body and pick up her natural scent again. He smiled to himself, relaxing and thinking how nice it was to have Kagome around, even on his human nights, and how he'd never felt so at home.

Tuesday, December 15th.

Kagome hummed to herself as she graded her students' papers in her kitchen. A candle flickered near her on the counter, filling the space with the delightful aroma of fir trees. That scent, more than the others, made her think of the season. Though, she hadn't been thinking much about the season itself recently.

A knock at her door broke Kagome's concentration, though she wasn't the least bit upset. Kagome hadn't received her gift yet that day, and as she jumped out of her chair flinging her body toward the door, Kagome was sure her gift would be waiting for her on the other side. She threw the thick door open, sapphire eyes wide and hungry for what for lay waiting for her.

Kagome nearly stumbled back when she saw a person looking back at her. A person… she didn't recognize. "Oh, um, hi. Can I help you?"

"Are you Kagome?" He asked, giving her a bored look that matched his monotonous tone.

"Yes," she responded, tilting her head to the side.

"I have a delivery for you." He continued, lifting up a large brown paper bag.

"But, I didn't order anything," Kagome mumbled.

"Yes, I'm aware. The caller said it was a gift."

Kagome's eyes widened as she connected the dots and her gaze shifted to the name printed on the bag. The food was from the French Hen Bistro on Commonwealth Ave. "Hey, are there three different meals in there?"

"Yes."

"Who called in the order?!" She screeched, lunging forward and grabbing the bag of food, staring intently at the man who looked more than a little alarmed.

"Uh, I don't know miss… I just drive the food."

Kagome sighed, her shoulders slumping as the driver walked back to his car. Her gaze darted to her left, looking at Inuyasha's apartment. A grin spread across her face as she walked back into her unit. Immediately she grabbed her phone and sent her darling neighbor a text.

[Hey! Have you ever tried the French Hen Bistro?] - Kagome H.

As she waited for his response, Kagome began to pull out the three different dishes; a turkey burger and fries, turkey and mushroom crepes, and a salad for balance. Her smile broadened as she inhaled the mouthwatering aroma. They all looked - and smelled - amazing.

A moment later her phone vibrated. Kagome cocked an eye brow as she read the most recent message, her heart sinking a little in her chest.

[Never heard of it. Any good?] - Inuyasha

Kagome chewed on the inside of her cheek before sighing.

[Not sure. Wanna find out with me?] - Kagome H.

[Sure, want me to pick it up? Leaving work now.] - Inuyasha

[Nah, I got some waiting for you.] - Kagome H.

[ :) ] - Inuyasha

Wednesday, December 16th

The French Hen Bistro had actually turned out to be pretty decent food and Inuyasha had made a mental note to visit the local eatery more often after he and Kagome had devoured her take out. He'd be lying if he said that he wasn't a little nervous hanging out with her the day after she had found out about his big secret. But, Inuyasha had been pleasantly surprised.

Kagome hadn't treated him any differently. It was refreshing and comforting.

Now, as he drove home from another long day at work, through the dark, crisp evening air, with the toys he and Miroku had purchased for the toy drive, Inuyasha was almost giddy to see her again.

He really wanted to see that smile of hers. The big one, where her eyes sparkled and she looked at him like he personally had put the stars in the sky. That smile… he was sure he would kill to protect it.

Instead of pulling into his drive, like he did every other night, Inuyasha pulled into Kagome's. He reasoned it would be simpler to transfer the gifts if he was just at her place. His heart thundered in his chest as he stepped out of his vehicle, and he subconsciously began taking deeper breaths, excitedly anticipating being reunited with her obnoxiously alluring scent.

Inuyasha knocked on her door and almost burst into laughter as he heard the woman scramble and sprint to the door like a bat out of hell. He stared wide eyed at her when Kagome threw the door open, out of breath and looking at Inuyasha in surprise.

"Oh, hey, what's up?" Kagome asked breathlessly while she straightened her outfit a little.

"You okay?" He asked, grinning down at the adorable teacher.

"Yeah, just, wasn't expecting… um… did I miss a text?" She asked worriedly.

"No, I just, well Miroku and I wanted to make a donation to your toy drive… thing…" he muttered, suddenly feeling unwelcome chills of doubt run down his spine.

"What?" Kagome asked, blinking quickly, a beautiful grin forming as she searched his amber eyes.

"I have an embarrassing number of toys in the car I don't know what to do with." He clarified. "Can you take them?"

"Yeah," she murmured, stepping out from her unit and coming to stand next to him. "Lead the way."

Inuyasha huffed, trying to hide his blush with a scowl as he walked over to his car and popped open the trunk. He watched her intently as she looked over at the bags and bags of toys, her hands hovering over them excitedly. Inuyasha kept his gaze on her as her bottom lip started to tremble ever so slightly. "You didn't have to do this," Kagome mumbled, turning away from the trunk overflowing with kids toys to Inuyasha, timid tears brimming her eyes.

He swallowed thickly, not expecting her to have such an emotional reaction. He had expected happiness, not tears. Though, he wasn't opposed to seeing Kagome look at him like that, looking at him like he mattered. "Ev-everyone deserves to feel loved," he mumbled her words back to her.

Kagome nodded, a tear breaking free as she looked back at the toys. She sniffled and wiped it away, her bright smile once again gracing her features. "Thank you," she whispered knowing he would still hear her. "Let's put these in my car."

After transferring all the toys, Kagome waved bye to Inuyasha and walked back to her unit. She smiled to herself, still overflowing with joy and gratitude, as she reached for the door knob something caught her attention. Her mouth dropped open as she stared at the new wreath that was hanging on her door. A wreath she was positive wasn't there when she had arrived home from work.

Green pine needles comprised the base of the wreath, while gold ornaments, gold plated leaves, and snow covered pine cones provided the additional seasonal touches. But it was the four ebony birds that sat perched on different branches that made her shake her head in admiration.

As Kagome locked up that evening, she couldn't help but wonder if… if the reason she was getting all the gifts was because the sender wanted to make sure she knew that - like her students - she was loved.

Thursday, December 17th.

'Game day,' Kagome thought to herself, practically shaking in excitement. She had been on cloud nine all day after turning in the plethora of gifts Inuyasha and Miroku had provided for the toy drive. She could not wait to see all the kids' faces the following day when the gifts were distributed.

Driving home, Kagome turned the radio on loudly, deciding to sing unabashedly along with the upbeat pop tunes that permeated the air in her car. Yeah… she was really freaking excited to Inuyasha again in a few hours.

Inuyasha groaned loudly, resisting the urge to smack his head loudly, repeatedly on his desk. His boss was being a major pain in his ass, but that was to be expected. It was the week before Christmas and - for those that celebrated in other ways - winter break. Every one and their mother was trying desperately to get all their work in before the building closed so they wouldn't be responsible for anything over break, Inuyasha included.

Miroku sauntered over, leaning against Inuyasha's desk while waiting to be acknowledged. When the half-demon finally looked over at him, Miroku grinned, "things going that well, huh?"

"Oh shut up," Inuyasha sneered.

"So," he began, leaning down and wiggling his eyebrows playfully, "was Kagome very… grateful… for the contribution to her toy drive?" Miroku finished by jokingly nudging Inuyasha with his elbow.

Inuyasha rolled his eyes and scoffed. "Keep it in your pants, pervert."

"What?! You mean to tell me you had the perfect opportunity to leverage your position and that you didn't? Have I taught you nothing?!" Miroku feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart.

The half-demon looked at the clock while avoiding his obnoxious friend's very inappropriate suggestions and overbearing questions. A wave of panic ran through him as he noticed the time. Six after eight. The game started in roughly twenty minutes and he was still at work with fucking Miroku badgering him about fucking his neighbor. His neighbor… who he was supposed to be watching the game with. 'Shit,' he thought, reaching for his phone and coat, moving around Miroku to get both and head toward the door. "Fuck off Miroku!" Inuyasha called behind him as he dashed to his car, shivering almost instantly as he hit the cold air.

It was a particularly cold evening, so cold that his car hadn't warmed up fully even after the twenty minute ride back to his place. Inuyasha sprinted inside to change before jumping down the entire flight of stairs and out the front door, without a care for any potential damage to his floors or doors. He would not be late to see Kagome.

She was like a goddam virus who had invaded every facet of his mind and life. Kagome was constantly on his mind and being away from her was beginning to physically hurt. Every where he went, and in everything he did, Inuyasha wanted to share it all with her. Simply put, his crush was getting out of hand, but he would deal with that after the game, after he'd gotten his most recent fix.

Taking a deep, calming breath, Inuyasha knocked on her door, his body thrumming in anticipation of seeing her, of inhaling her natural fragrance, and hearing her laugh again. 'God,' he thought, 'I'm such a fucking sucker.'

"Hey!" Kagome exclaimed, opening the door and stepping forward before pausing and blushing then stepping back to let him in. He watched her for a moment, noticing how her blue eyes had widened in concern and how she was now worrying her lip.

'Stupid!' She chastised internally. Kagome had stepped forward intending on giving him a hug, but had chickened out. 'What if he doesn't like hugs? What if he just doesn't want a hug from you? What if-'

"Uh, Earth to Kagome, you alright?" He asked, leaning down and waving a hand in front of her face.

Kagome snapped to attention, her blush intensifying, "oh, uh, yeah, do you, erm… do you like hugs?"

"Hugs?" He repeated slowly, his head tilting to the side like a confused puppy who wasn't sure what to make of the situation.

Kagome rolled her eyes, shoving down her anxiety, then stepping forward to wrap her arms around her friend or… whatever they were. Inuyasha remained stiff for a moment, unsure of how to proceed before he timidly embraced her as well. He pulled back the moment she did, immediately looking up and away from her to try and hide his rose stained cheeks.

"Okay!" She announced, beckoning him inside and closing the door. "I've ordered pizza for us tonight and I picked up some seasonal beer from the liquor store on the way home."

"Sounds good," he murmured, taking off his coat and absolutely not thinking about how perfectly she fit against him or how badly he'd wished she hadn't let go so soon.

"Cold out there," she remarked, smiling up at him.

"Uh, yeah, well… it is December…"

"Shall we?" Kagome suggested, pointing to the living room.

As he walked through the familiar layout, his eyes were drawn to box after box littering her floor. He was positive that in the few times he'd been at Kagome's unit before there had never been this much… clutter. "Why does your apartment suddenly look like it belongs on an episode of hoarders?"

Kagome giggled in response. "Oh, because those are all my Christmas decorations and stuff that I am putting up for the party. I've got wreaths, and ornaments, and special holiday plates, etcetera, that I have to get out and set up before everyone comes over."

"Do you have a tree?" He asked absentmindedly, taking a seat on the couch.

"Oh, um, not yet. Was going to do that this weekend."

He chuckled openly, imaging his petite neighbor trying to drag a real tree into her unit and set it up without the thing falling through a window.

"What's so funny?" Kagome asked, shooting him a quick look as she turned on the game.

"No way you'll be able to get a tree in by yourself," Inuyasha teased, rolling his eyes and leaning back against the cushions.

"I'll have you know that I've done it by myself, successfully, for the past several years." Kagome responded, puffing out her chest in pride.

"I don't believe you for a second, Higurashi," Inuyasha replied smugly.

"Oh really?" She replied, crossing her arms over her chest. "Well then I'll just have to show you. I'm stronger than I look, ya know."

"Yeah and twice as clumsy," he joked.

Kagome waved off his comment with a flick of her hand, before leaning back in the cushions.

Inuyasha could feel the heat from her shoulder, as it rested along his upper arm. He swallowed as quietly as he could, hyperaware of the pressure of her gentle contact with him and the way her thigh also brushed against his. Inuyasha peered over at her through the corner of his eye, amber gaze assessing her closely.

Kagome looked relaxed above all else. Wearing that same well-worn hoodie she had on every time they watched the games during the week, her lustrous, raven hair tied in a messy bun at the top of her head, and those warm eyes fixated on the screen.

He tried to do the same, to focus on the game, but his mind kept wandering. Inuyasha was hyper-focused on her and her movements. Every little shift, every little breath, drew his attention. It felt both abnormal and totally natural to be so close to her. He silently wondered if this is how other people had relationships. 'Does it always feel this… innate and authentic when Miroku connected with someone?' He wasn't sure. It was such a new feeling to him, but he wanted to cherish it.

Which is why Inuyasha almost whimpered out loud when Kagome stood to grab the pizza she'd ordered, the comfort of her presence dissipating with agonizing speed.

Kagome hurried back though, shivering slightly from the cold evening air as she plopped the pizza box on the coffee table in front of them. She smiled warmly at Inuyasha before throwing open the box, and to his utter delight, reclaiming her spot practically cuddled up against him on the couch, a warm, greasy slice of cheese pizza in hand.

As she leaned into the back of the couch, her left side purposely rubbing up against Inuyasha, Kagome felt utterly content. Even if the team she'd wanted to win was losing, it didn't matter. She'd seen the shy looks Inuyasha sent her way between various plays and the gentle way he'd leaned into her when she came back with the pizza. All of which made her heart flutter.

Kagome's team continued to do poorly throughout the evening, but Kagome was none-the-wiser. As the half-time report gave way to the second half of the game, Inuyasha felt a greater pressure on his shoulder. He looked down and over at his neighbor, his cheeks burning as he noticed her head resting on him. His ear twitched, processing her gentle, steady breaths. Inuyasha rolled his eyes, Kagome had fallen asleep!

When the game entered the final quarter, Inuyasha yawned himself. He had thought that at some point she would have woken up, but it appeared that Kagome was out cold for the evening. Based on the amount of boxes she had unearthed for the party, Inuyasha assumed she'd over exerted herself earlier getting them out. He sighed, then began to slowly move. Carefully and with a tenderness that even surprised himself, Inuyasha lowered Kagome's head onto a pillow and draped a blanket over her.

He grabbed his coat on the way out, taking one last peek at the silly woman. She hadn't so much as twitched. Inuyasha checked her door to make sure it would lock on his way out and quietly tip-toed out of her unit. Inuyasha rolled his eyes to himself as he entered his unit, pulling out his phone and setting an alarm to call her before his morning run so she wouldn't miss work.

Kagome awoke later that evening, an infomercial playing on her T.V. where the game had been earlier. She wiped the sleep away from her eyes, lifting herself off the couch and noticing that a blanket had been draped around her. She groaned loudly, upset with herself for falling asleep and the subsequent kink that had developed in her neck. Kagome frowned, she had been so excited to spend time with him and to have been so close to him and she had to go and ruin it by falling asleep!

Lifting her hand to her mouth to block a yawn, Kagome's attention was drawn from the T.V. to a foreign object on her hand; a ring. A gold ring rested innocently on her index finger. Kagome's eyes widened, the wheels in her mind spinning.

It was the fifth night. The fifth present…

Kagome sat up quickly, staring intently at the little band of metal, biting her bottom lip as the corners of her mouth twitched into a giddy smile. 'It has to be him… right?'

A small, lingering concern pulled Kagome from her joy, 'wait… aren't there supposed to be five rings? Where are the rest?…'