The perfect date

by lmgurl92

Inuyasha Takashi has it all, he's handsome, smart, rich, and charming, everything Kagome needs to make her perfect older sister completely green with jealousy. He'd be the perfect date to her sister's wedding, but there's only one catch He's her boss...

22. Overall problem

Chapter 22: The overall problem

Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha.

A/N: This is the end of part one of the story.

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22

He didn't hesitate to put his arms around her too. "Are you okay? How long have you been in there for?" He asked but she didn't answer she was too concerned with hiding her face in his chest. She didn't know why, but she couldn't help the tears that poured out. "It's alright…I'm here now. Wow…I thought you just left. I swear I wasn't looking for you." He whispered and at that she backed up. She pushed some tears off her face.

"Yeah no one was…I would have been stuck in there till…" she hesitated for a slight moment and Inuyasha stared at her. She looked a bit disheveled. Her long black hair lied down her back in huge messy waves. Her makeup had been almost entirely removed. She was still gorgeous, but he could see the distress in her face. Why the hell would Rin do that to her? "Can we leave….I can't be in here for much longer." She said walking past him quickly. He turned around following her.

"Who locked you in here?" He asked, he already knew, but he wanted to know if she knew too.

"I don't know…." She lied. She didn't want him to know Rin locked her in. The whole thing was embarrassing enough. "I think it was an accident." She looked around the hall. The couch was out of place with one lone chair pushed away from the door, he'd eventually connect the dots anyway.

"Wow… that's some kind of accident." He said walking over to her and placing something into the palm of her hand. She thought he was trying to hold her hand, but when she felt the phone she looked down at it turning to face him in shock. He just gave her a knowing look.

So he knew Rin had locked her in as part of some crazy plan. The only thing she could do to combat it would be to quickly get back to Sesshomaru, come up with some excuse. She needed some way to do the opposite of what Rin wanted her to. She pushed her hair back and took a deep breath. "Thank you for getting me, and for my phone." She looked down at it for the time. "I should really be getting back to the dinner though, your brother is probably wondering where I am." She turned away from him and started up the hall.

"I doubt it…" he said stopping her slightly "He left…with Rin a little over an hour ago." She halted completely and he took a few steps towards her. He wanted to see how she felt about that. Was she upset, saddened, he knew it wasn't something he should involve himself with; didn't he want her back as an associate? Was that possible, he really truly doubted it. At the moment all he wanted to do was steal her away from Sesshomaru.

"Oh…." She said thinking that through for a moment. "Uh…I guess I should probably be going then." She mumbled and he stared at her not knowing how to detour that idea without sounding desperate. He wanted her to stay he knew that much. He wanted to speak to her personally, but more importantly he wanted her for his date. That's how he had envisioned this night going. Lord knew she was dressed for it, Rin had successfully fooled them both, and here they were dressed like a couple, the only two dateless, it just made sense. He wouldn't admit it but he was slightly pleased at how things were turning out.

"If you really want…" he stated, she didn't say anything and he took it as an opportunity to continue on. "But if you want...Rin left so I'm… I'm dateless." She turned slightly to face him, he couldn't see her reaction but he hoped she'd say yes.

"I don't know…I shouldn't. I have to wake up early tomorrow…"

"For what?" the question halted her for a moment. Why did she just say that? She wasn't going to tell him she was leaving tomorrow, was she? "Okay I get it…" he stepped to the left smiling slightly. "Excuses, but I promise you'll just be my date…nothing else. It's for appearances strictly…"

"Business" she interrupted, she had heard that phrase so many times, from him, his brother it was getting old at this point. If it were really all business than why did Sesshomaru kiss her earlier and why was she standing here, in front of him with so many different emotions jumping around at once. She turned to face him fully and he just stood there staring at her. He lowered his head when he realized what she meant. She wasn't falling for any of it this time. Maybe it was time to be up front and honest about a few things.

"Kagome I know I've been really rude and I know I probably shouldn't be standing here asking you for anything. All I can really do is apologize…"

"No don't…" she said quickly putting a hand out. "Save it please…" she didn't want to hear that. She really couldn't right now. Not with everything that had already happened. He seemed surprised by her interruption; he had really thought his declaration was exactly what she wanted to hear. He was so confused now, maybe it was too late. The thought literally pained him, but if it were really too late it was something he'd have to accept. Maybe she was ready to move on, maybe she was involved with his brother, though now he understood that maybe that wasn't true, but perhaps she was ready to move on to some one new completely. He hated the idea but he sort of deserved it.

"Okay…fine" he mumbled. She looked away from him and crossed her arms. He didn't want to show his frustration but he couldn't hide it and she looked over at him realizing that.

"It's not that I don't appreciate it…I do…"

"But…" he interrupted waiting for her to continue. She just shrugged, she couldn't continue, she really couldn't. It wouldn't be smart to tell all her feelings; she'd just feel like shit later on when he didn't accept them. She was used to his rejection at this point. "I just…you don't have to apologize you got me out of the bathroom…we're even."

He nodded slightly, but of course he wasn't buying it. Her guard was way up and he understood why. "Okay… fine, what are you planning on doing?" He asked and she paused thinking. "I'm not going to tell you what to do, but…you should stay."

"I don't think that's a good idea." She mumbled while holding her arms and turning away. None of them said anything for awhile. He sort of continued staring at her; he could tell she was trying to avoid eye contact. She kept staring at the little waiting nook beside the bathroom and walking around it slightly.

He let her walk around slowly for another minute before interrupting slightly. "So…you're planning on just going right?" She halted and bit down on her lip. He could see her profile from her current angle. "I know I'm asking for a lot, but… I do want to make things right between us."

"We're fine…really." She mumbled, but he knew that wasn't true.

"I would really like it if you stayed." He admitted.

"Why..." she turned to face him. "Why does it matter so much? Why do you want me here so badly? Everyone knows I came with your brother. It would be weird for me to just all of a sudden be your date…"

"I don't care about what anyone in there thinks." She seemed shocked by that. "If I'm being honest…I just…I don't want you leaving tonight without making things right between us. It would mean a lot to me."

"I don't know why you care so much." She admitted.

He shrugged slightly… "I'm not sure why I do either…if it helps you could look at it as a favor."

She smiled a bit. "You want me to stay that much." He nodded slightly and she just shook her head. She was completely losing it, the situation she was in, she would have never in a million years guessed she'd be in this predicament, especially with Inuyasha. She really wanted to say no. She wanted to be done with the whole situation. She was leaving tomorrow; she could pack up, and put the whole thing behind her. She was through with the constant erupting emotions that she seem too always be immersed in. She didn't know or understand why Inuyasha wanted her to stay, but she didn't want to put herself through it anymore. It was time for her to put her foot down…move on. She looked up wanting to say no, but when she saw the look on his face she swallowed her words.

He just stood there staring at her. His hands in his black slacks, his eyes trained on her. He seemed to be waiting so patiently for her answer, but it wasn't just the staring that had her stunned it was the hope in his eyes, he really genuinely wanted her to stay and he hoped she'd say yes. It made her wonder, what was he planning to tell her or do with her tonight that he wanted her to so badly change her mind. Just looking at his face, she knew she wouldn't be able to say no, but deep down she really wanted to.

"I…I don't know…" she mumbled… "But… I guess I could stick around." She said and his overly handsome face broke into a smile. It took her breath away.

"You're not going to regret it…" She threw him her own smile, but she didn't want to reveal that she already regretted saying yes. Staying would not only put her in a bad pace emotionally, but it would give Rin exactly what she wanted, and after the bathroom incident she wasn't shy about admitting she didn't want Rin winning. She didn't want to escort Inuyasha to his party either, though she couldn't deny him of his own birthday celebration. She just didn't want to be out anymore, she wanted to be alone. "So…I'm ready to go back out there when you are."

"Yeah…I'm ready…I just. I need to sort of straighten myself out a bit. I'll be there." He hesitated for a moment, but then just nodded.

"Okay…sounds good." He said, but he seemed a bit uncertain. She nodded and watched as he awkwardly turned around. He left down the hall and she sighed loudly. She felt a bit off, and she didn't know why. She knew it probably had something to do with her OCD and being locked in the bathroom moments earlier. She took a deep breath before walking off towards the restroom again. She hesitated not wanting to go back in. She knew she must have looked awful, but the idea of going back in there had her whole body itching and her stomach aching. She backed up slightly and looked around. She was at the end of the hall. In order to get back to the banquet hall she'd have to go all the way up past the other restrooms and the entrance to the kitchen. She had no idea why she was thinking in these terms, but her mind kept going towards possible exits. She wanted to just sneak out, though she couldn't think of any possible ones near her.

She decided to just suck everything up, pull her hair into a bun and make her way to the dinner. Even with her decision made she didn't hesitate to search the surrounding walls for any sort of doors. She didn't find any and it didn't take long for her to finally get out of the hall and into the banquet lobby. She caught the eye of a few people as she stood against the wall. She was trying to be as invisible as possible, but that obviously wasn't working. There was no missing her for some of the guest. She had no idea why, but she suddenly missed the old Kagome who didn't grab any ones attention when she walked into a room. She didn't dwell on that too long; her attention was on the table in the center of the room. Inutashio sat at the head of it. It wasn't too hard to miss. It seemed like all the other tables circled around it. She knew what she was supposed to do, but for some reason her eyes kept gravitating towards the winding staircase. There was no way she'd make it up there without anyone noticing her. She looked around the back hall for an exit sign, she saw a couple, but none were near her. It seemed unavoidable but at the same time she knew if there was an exit near her she wouldn't take it. She just couldn't do it. The realization hit her hard and she automatically turned around to face the center of the room, she noticed Inuyasha immediately, he was facing his mother and saying something before turning around to search around the room. It didn't take long for him to set his eyes on her.

As soon as he saw her he stood up from his chair to face her. She put a half smile on her face walking slowly to meet him. His mom was smiling up at her as she made her way to his side. She felt a bit awkward for some reason, she wasn't really sure why. She put a solemn hand up to say hi before looking forward at Inutashio. He seemed pretty pleased to see her yet confused. "Kagome… hello…I'm sorry to say, but…Sesshomaru, he left. I could have sworn you left with him." She shook her head before waving slightly at Shippo.

"Dad no... Rin and Sesshomaru left..." His dad seemed even more confused by that. She would have helped explain things, maybe throw in a lie, but she just plainly wasn't in the mood for it.

"I know they left at the same time, I know that, but he left Kagome here…that's a bit unusual…" He said and Inuyasha just threw him a look then put a light hand on the small of her back. As soon as he touched her she tensed up. He gently eased her off towards an empty chair near his, but it was slightly away from his parents. She didn't voice anything she just sat.

"The foods coming out in a few minutes…" He said and she just nodded. "Did you want anything specific?" She shook her head. "Is everything alright? You seem a bit off?" He asked and she looked up wanting to just shake her head and be left alone, but instead she smiled up reassuringly.

"No…no…I'm fine…just…just thinking." She mumbled and he nodded slightly, but he didn't buy any of it. She was definitely off, and he had a feeling it had something to do with their conversation earlier. Maybe he should of let her leave, she seemed very uncomfortable. He was about to say something else but his mom interrupted.

"Well we were uncertain if you were here or not, but we ordered for you. I hope you don't mind." He paused looking towards Kagome. she was forcing yet another smile. "I have to wonder though, did my son tell you before he was leaving. I mean you were his date."

She fumbled a bit before looking towards Izoyai. "Uh…yea…um…he said something came up." She mumbled.

"Well how are you? Is something up you've been gone for a majority of the night?"

"Um… yea I wasn't feeling too well. I meant to apologize about that." She turned towards Inutashio. "Mr. Takashi, I know the first half of the dinner is used to attract clients…but…"

"No… it's no problem Kagome." He said interrupting her. "I'm just sorry my son just left you here. I'll have to have a talk with him. It doesn't seem like proper etiquette at all."

She froze at that and just shrugged. "I'm fine with it…" She mumbled. Inutashio wasn't having it. He saw Kagome as a more than liable mate for either one of his sons, but since Sesshomaru was the one courting her for the evening he wanted to make sure he hadn't lost all chances with her completely.

"I don't believe you should put up with that…he's my son and even I'm advising you to put your foot down." Izoyai interrupted. Kagome just smiled half heartedly as a line of waitresses and waiters entered the dining area. They were carrying trays of food and she sort of let her eyes follow them as they set plates at different tables. A couple came over to their section setting food down. Everyone around the table ignored them setting their eyes on her. A plate was set in front of her and she looked down examining the food. It looked like some sort of meat drenched in a red sauce, steam vegetables on the side, and diced potatoes. It looked delicious, but there was no way she could eat this. "I hope you don't mind but I ordered the lamb for you. You're not a vegetarian are you?"

"Oh no…not at all, it looks delicious." Izoyai smiled at that but moved closer in her seat wanting to continue the conversation they were having.

"On to the subject of Sesshomaru…"

"Mom…I don't think Kagome wants to continue talking about that." Inuyasha said, he was taking his silverware out of its napkin. He was a bit upset; he knew he shouldn't have been, but Kagome's reaction to what his parent's were saying. It made him think that maybe she was upset about Sesshomaru leaving. That made him beyond frustrated but he was trying to hold it in.

"No…it's fine. I'm not too upset about it. To be honest Sesshomaru and I aren't an item in the least." She admitted and the declaration shocked Inuyasha and his mother.

"Really?" she asked and Kagome just nodded as she stuck a fork in her food. "Well excuse me for asking, but is there any potential that perhaps you could reconsider and…"

"Mom…" Inuyasha interrupted. Kagome looked up at that. She seemed shocked that Inuyasha would just cut her off, but when she surveyed his face she decided to leave the conversation alone as well.

"Why don't we change the topic?" Inutashio suggested. "So Inuyasha your mother and I have been talking, and tomorrow for your birthday we've decided on something a bit special. It would be amazing if you could join us Kagome."

She looked up at that trying to find an excuse. She could see their hopeful faces and it just made her feel worse. With everything that had happened tonight she had no idea she could feel worse. "Uh…yea maybe…" she could see the slight disappointment on Inuyasha's face. "The truth is I'm still feeling a bit under the weather, and I'm not entirely sure if I'll be any better tomorrow."

"Oh no…I hope it wasn't something you ate. I think Rin left because of stomach issues…you don't think there's something going around?" Izoyai asked.

"It would have to be something in the entrees..." Inutashio said his response allowed Kagome to bow herself out of the conversation. She played around with her food slightly. She had no idea but Inuyasha was watching her from his peripherals. He knew her all too well, something was bothering her and the way she picked at her food just confirmed that, and no matter how much he wanted her to stay. He had to go ahead and let her go. Kagome obviously didn't want to be here...with him, and he needed to accept that.

He waited a moment then leaned in closer to her. "Hey…" he whispered, she tensed up automatically. He could tell, but he ignored it, though he was for some reason offended by the reaction. He took it as somewhat of a recoil, she didn't want to be near him, he didn't know it was the exact opposite. Her heart beat quickened her body heated up and her breathing halted. "Are you ready to go...?"

"What…" she whispered a little surprised. "The dinners not over, I was planning on talking to a few clients after the meal."

"No don't worry about it." He said but she could hear a hint of something in his voice. She couldn't put a finger on it completely, but he was somewhat upset. So on top of everything she upset him. So she'd be leaving him on bad terms, that hurt her a bit more. He backed away from her and leaned in towards his mother. He told her something along the lines of Kagome feeling a bit too awful to stay around for the whole dinner. She agreed but his father was a bit hesitant for both of them to leave. They talked for awhile and finally he rose from his spot. He turned towards her raising both his eyebrows. "You ready?" He asked again.

She rose up and he looked away quickly. He was avoiding her eye contact, she found that strange. "Uh…yeah…" she stood up and smiled towards Izoyai, "the food was delicious…thank you so much for having me." She extended her good bye towards Inutashio who just nodded, but he wasn't too happy to see them go. "It was nice seeing you again Shippo." He looked up from under the table; she could tell from her angle that he was playing some hand held device.

"We'll see you soon Kagome, hopefully you'll be able to attend our little get together for Inuyasha tomorrow."

"I hope so too…" she lied before turning around.

"Inuyasha…" his father called. He paused before turning to face him. When he noticed the look on his dads face he came in closer, and they had a private conversation that Inutashio obviously didn't want her over hearing. He then backed up, kissed his mom on the cheek, hit his little brother over the head playfully, and walked back towards her. She waited for him to get close before turning to follow him out of the banquet hall.

"I'm really sorry you had to leave early, I know you wanted to stay." She whispered.

"Not really…" he told her. He left it at that and continued walking. She didn't know what else to say, she searched her brain, but after awhile she decided she didn't want to play this charade anymore. Tiptoeing through her problems got her in this situation in the first place.

"So what's wrong…you seem upset." She said as they made it to the exit. He just shrugged as he made his way outside. He didn't even bother holding the door open for her and she had to catch the door before it fell closed. "I mean why are you so mad at me…?" she mumbled closing the door behind her. She wasn't sure if he heard her, but he did. He decided to ease off the attitude a bit. The exit led to a small hall with a door, he turned towards it dipping in for a moment.

"You came with a coat?" He asked and she was surprised he was actually talking to her, but she nodded. "How'd it look like?"

"Is this where they keep all the jackets? I'll help you look…" She suggested and he nodded agreeing. She let herself in looking around she only hesitated when she felt her clutch vibrate. She pulled out her phone and read a text message from Ayame, it read: 'we are ready when you are…' she had no idea what that meant, but as she looked at the large room filled with hanging coats she realized Ayame was talking about Inuyasha's party. She really didn't want to go, but all of a sudden she realized that maybe going would ease some things between them before she left for good. She texted back a quick 'ok.' "Hey…" she whispered he didn't look towards her. He was beyond annoyed, but he wasn't upset at her per se. He was really angry at himself. He ruined something between them, he should have forgiven her a lot earlier; he felt like he was losing her. "So um… I meant to say happy birthday…"

He looked up at that, finding his coat and standing towards her. "Thanks…" She nodded slightly and looked off to the side. She noticed automatically her black trench…"Wait I actually think that might be my coat." She said walking past him to get it. She inspected it for a quarter of a minute then pulled it off the hook. She was sure there was supposed to be somebody working down here passing them their coats, but because they were in the middle of dining the employees might have been doing something else at the moment. Luckily everything seemed overly organized according to table.

"Is that it?" He asked and she nodded looking over it once more before pulling it on. She then turned around facing him. He was doing his staring thing, the one that had her stomach turning, twisting and her heart beating over time. He looked away as soon as she faced him, but for the first time she wasn't shying away. She actually wanted his attention, she wanted so much more than that, that was one of her biggest fears. She was leaving tomorrow morning, moving, she couldn't let herself have these feelings for him, though it was a little too late for that. She had been having them since she officially met him.

"Yeah I think it is…" He nodded turning around to leave the room. She watched him go then followed behind him. "So…" she announced as he walked down the hall towards the exit. She had no idea why she was bringing this up; just a few hours ago she was trying to avoid it. It was like with just one look she was reconsidering everything. "You wanted to tell me something earlier?" She said he heard her but he was trying to jog his memory on exactly what earlier was? "Before I left for the bathroom…"she mumbled.

"Oh yeah…" he said, "I didn't think you wanted to talk about that." She was a little surprised that he noticed her discomfort earlier. She didn't know why? She hadn't done anything to try and hide it. He pulled open the door leading outside. He surprisingly held the door open for her and she thanked him as she stepped outside. It was extremely cool and the wind was actually blowing making her hug herself automatically.

"No…I just…" she paused for a moment. "I mean yeah…I guess so…I didn't want to talk about it…then." She admitted. She had her eyes on him slightly as he took the lead. His hands were in the pockets of his slacks. His coat was draped carelessly between his torso and arm. She wondered if he was cold, but he didn't seem to mind. He just nodded as if he knew that much. He was definitely upset. She wanted to ease him slightly, but she didn't want to become too invested. "I'm really sorry I upset you…or that I am upsetting you…"

"No…no…" he interrupted quickly pulling a hand out to stop her. "You're not upsetting me Kagome. You're not." She smiled slightly realizing he was being honest, yet he was still not himself.

"Okay then…if you don't mind telling me…what is?"

"I don't know…" He shrugged looking out at the roundabout hosting several limos. He couldn't see theirs right away. "It's me…I guess I'm not really upset I'm just thinking." He lied. She nodded but she was filled with much more questions. He stopped at the sidewalk looking straight ahead at all the cars. He saw the light to one of the limos flash and he stepped back planning to head for it. He didn't say anything for a moment. "The limo's right there." He informed her and she nodded.

As they walked towards it straight ahead she had a really strange awkward feeling come over her. He had said he wasn't upset at her, and she believed it, but he was avoiding her. She should have just left that alone though. Honestly Inuyasha avoiding her would actually be a benefit. It was her plan to make very little contact with him. She knew that would make leaving a lot easier, but now that she was finally here alone with him, she craved more attention, she craved closure and she wanted some sort of huge declaration from him. It was a feeling she wasn't used to having, and she honestly wish she wasn't feeling it, but she couldn't help it.

The chauffeur stepped out of the limo and headed to the side, pulling the door open for them. Inuyasha held back hesitantly letting her take a seat first, it was very uncharacteristic of him, but she wasn't surprised, he seemed to be a bit off. He walked all the way to the other side of the limo to take his seat. She didn't say anything, though she wanted to. Everything seemed extremely tense between them. He rotated himself towards the window making her feel a bit self conscious she felt like she needed to apologize again.

The limo started up and at that she turned to face him. "I'm really…really sorry that we had to leave early." She said quickly.

He turned to face her. "Kagome seriously it's not a big deal. I didn't want to stay…really."

"I feel like you did…you asked me to stay earlier in the bathroom, and I said yes, but now we're leaving. I get it your upset. We can still go back." He widened his eyes slightly a little shocked at her declaration. It cooled him off a bit. Why did she care so much about how he felt?

"Yeah but you didn't want to stay…" He admitted. It wasn't that he really wanted to stay at the dinner. It was that he wanted Kagome to stay with him. She was his first choice as a date and his brother and Rin leaving made him think that maybe she still could be.

"Yeah…if it means that much to you…" she hesitated for a moment moving away slightly. She didn't understand why she was still so timid around him. She sat up a bit trying to calm herself slightly; as she did she felt something underneath her foot. She looked down recognizing what it was automatically. Inuyasha was now facing her; a bit confused that she just stopped talking automatically. She was staring at something bellow her feet and out of nowhere she bent down and pulled it out. "Oh…oh um…I forgot about this."

He turned around fully to face her. She put the box down and grabbed a whole bag from deep under the seat. "What is that?" He asked and she quickly pushed it down. In the bag was the mini dress Rin packed for her and her clutch. She was supposed to change into this at his party. The box was his gift.

"It's nothing…just some clothes I left in the limo…" she lied quickly.

He didn't believe it, but he left it alone. "Listen it means a lot to me that you care…" he mumbled. "I'm not upset though…I mean I am, but I'm angry that I can't fix things between us." She nodded calmly yet her insides were going crazy. She pulled his gift on her lap, playing with the wrapping paper, trying to make her emotions settle down. "That's what I was trying to do earlier, at the dinner; before you left…I just don't think I can fix things."

"I think hearing that you wanted to…makes up for a lot of it." She mumbled and he agreed silently, yet it wasn't what he wanted to hear.

"Yeah…but it's not enough. I know you quit, but If you're willing to…maybe…"

"I…uh…" she interrupted quickly. She didn't want to have this conversation. She had ran to the bathroom earlier to escape it. She did want to talk to him. She just…in the end she didn't know what she wanted. "I got you a gift. I picked it up earlier for your birthday." She admitted. He looked down at her lap seeing the box. He narrowed his eyes a bit confused all of a sudden.

"Okay thanks." He said taking it from her. "You really didn't have to give me a gift…and with everything that happened. I really didn't think you would."

"I picked it up months ago… she admitted though she was a bit embarrassed to say it. The whole thing just reminded him that Kagome did care about him as way more than just a boss. So why was he continuing with this façade? He should just admit that he was finally ready to take their relationship to the next step, yet he couldn't. If he did then he'd have to accept her option of quitting. He'd have to give up a lot, was he ready for that? He unwrapped the box quickly throwing the paper to the side before lifting the box up and turning it.

"I hope you like it…I mean. It's not much, and I wish I could have given it to you earlier…"

He turned the box around looking down at it. As soon as he saw it he interrupted and surprised her with an extremely loud laugh. She turned around quickly. He had the box facing up towards the light of the limo. She didn't know rather to be happy or upset by his reaction, why was he laughing? He seemed extremely amused at the gift, but what if he was laughing at her? "Is that…is this my car?" He asked in amazement as he set the box down on his lap to open it.

"Yeah…I know how much you love it. You have that special parking spot at the office…"

"It's my favorite." He said and she just smiled. She had got him a scale model of his satin red Corvette. It was extremely detailed. It came with a small wooden plateau making it look like it was on display in some car show. "How much was this….?" He asked in shock. Kagome smiled as she stared at him examining it.

"It's actually an alarm clock…" she said and Inuyasha looked down at her too pleased for words. She moved closer to show him how it worked. "If you press this…" she pushed on the car horn and a little screen showed up on the windshield of the car. "You can set it up over here…"

"This is…wow…I love it. How did you…"

"It wasn't that hard…I just went to a store that made colletable scale models. I told them what car you had…and then I thought since we were going to this trip, you'd need an alarm clock. So I found another shop and they customize toys...putting mechanics in them and... "

"It must have cost you a fortune…" He said. He was too busy playing around with the car pressing some of the hidden buttons to look down at her. Her face was completely red but instead of embarrassment she was overwhelmingly happy that he liked the gift.

"No it…it was nothing…now you won't be late for any of your meetings." She said and he looked up at that. The look had her heart beating quickly, her blood warmed up, and when he flashed her his handsome smile her emotions went crazy.

"This is amazing really." He said and she just shrugged. "Thanks…it's probably one of the most considerate gifts anyone's given me…"

"Yeah right…" she said laughing slightly and he shook his head.

"No seriously" he could see her cheeks flash with color and it just made him smile even wider. He set the alarm down and turned to face her. "Hey so… I've been thinking a lot lately, and not about the dinner or you quitting…I've been thinking about you and I." He admitted and she widened her eyes. Her heart was beating so fast she turned away slightly to breath. The fact that she was leaving tomorrow was the last thing on her mind, she was filled with so much excitement, anticipation…it was like she knew what he was going to say, and she had been waiting for it for awhile. "You remember a few weeks ago when you admitted how you felt about me?" He asked. She nodded slightly and he smiled at the reaction. "I know then I sort of shied away from giving you an answer. I don't want you thinking it's because I didn't feel the same way."

She looked up, her mouth a bit agate. His smiled turned into a gorgeous smirk. He seemed so confident, but inside he was a nervous wreck as well. "So what…" she mumbled she was subconsciously scratching the seat next to her. "Are you saying you do feel the same?" He sighed at that she was so wrapped up into her own emotions. So nervous about what he might say next she didn't notice the limo stopping.

"It's a lot more complex then that…but yeah. I just hope that…you still feel the same about me." He mumbled and she just turned away. She was filled with so many different emotions she couldn't even think straight. She was one hundred percent sure she couldn't speak. Her body felt like jelly and her skin felt extremely hot. "Kagome…" he said and she just turned wanting to actually say words but not being able to. She didn't notice but though he waited for her response his attention was somewhere else. The limo had stopped and they couldn't be anywhere near their hotel. The chauffeur was rounding the corner and he was about to ask him where they were. They seemed to be on an extremely busy city street. Cars lined each side of the sidewalk and they were parked right next to a warehouse. He pulled the door open before the chauffeur could; it was at that moment she had mustered up something to say.

"Uh…I…of course I do…" She stuttered softly.

"Hold on Kagome…I'm trying to figure out where we are." He said and she widened her eyes while looking around. He opened the limo door seeing the chauffeur. "Where are we?" He asked bluntly.

"Mrs. Higurashi asked for a quick stop…" He lied and Kagome who was still in a daze by everything that just happened moments ago looked up. Both the chauffeur and Inuyasha were staring at her. She narrowed her eyes shaking her head. She was about to tell Inuyasha that wasn't true when in the quietness she heard her phone vibrate.

"Hold on…" she said going for her clutch. She pulled out her phone. She had a few missed messages, but the most recent one was from Ayame. It read: "Is that you…is that the limo. Should we hide?" Realization came through automatically and she widened her eyes. She sent a quick "yeah" and looked up at the driver. "Uh…I have to speak to you." She said going for her door.

"Yeah I know…when we get back on the road." Inuyasha said and Kagome shook her head as she quickly pushed herself out of the car.

"No…not you the chauffeur." He crossed his eyebrows as she hurried to meet the driver. She walked a bit away from him telling Inuyasha that she wanted to speak to him in private. The whole thing confused him endlessly.

"I was told to drive here for a surprise party for Mr. Takashi." the chaffeur said he put his hands up as if he was innocent in all this.

"Yeah… yeah I know. Do you know which building it's supposed to be in?" He pointed to the warehouse he had conveniently parked near. It looked like all the cars left a wide enough space for them. She nodded slightly and turned towards Inuyasha. He was standing outside near the limo staring at her.

"So what's going on?" He asked as she walked back.

"I have to use the bathroom." She lied and he knew it. He stuck an eyebrow out then shrugged. He was a bit annoyed and he wasn't hiding it. They were just talking about something really serious, why would she out of nowhere interrupt it for this. Maybe she didn't feel the way he thought she did? It embarrassed him to think that she could just be humoring him.

"Okay…I'll just wait here."

"No please come with me." He narrowed his eyes.

"What's up?" He asked but she didn't bother to answer. To his surprise she grabbed a hold of his hand and pulled him away from the limo towards the sidewalk. "Okay…" he said "And this is where you want to use the bathroom?" He asked looking up at the warehouse.

"Yeah…I have to go really badly."

"Yea but here, I think this place is abandoned." He said but she ignored him. She went for the door opening it up and walking into a dark lobby. As soon as they stepped in the lights turned on. She expected people to pop out but no one ever came. She looked around releasing her hand from Inuyasha's. "Uh…if you're willing to use it, there's a bathroom right here. He put a subtle hand in the direction of a restroom. She shook her head looking around. The space was completely empty. There was no where anyone could hide. There were two glass doors to their left, but she doubted anyone was there either. "Kagome…what is this?" He asked making her turn around. "Are you trying to avoid something?" She shook her head heading towards the glass doors. "Maybe you're trying to tell me something. I won't be upset if you just tell me the truth." He said and Kagome turned slightly around.

"What are you getting at?"

"I'm just saying, I mean after what happened in the car, and what I admitted. I just don't want to play anymore games."

She turned away from the glass doors. "What games, I'm not playing anything…I just need to use the bathroom." He gave her a knowing look and she narrowed her eyes. "Are you insinuating that I'm trying to avoid telling you how I feel?" He didn't say anything; instead he put his hands in his pockets and shrugged slightly.

"Well if you're not…can we leave, can we get back to the hotel and talk. I really want to have this conversation."

"I know you do." She whispered. She turned away again making him sigh in annoyance. She went for the doors opening them. No lights came on, no one popped up. She faced him again. "This is weird." She mumbled. "I guess we should leave." She said with a shrug. He looked to her for a moment before walking forward. "Where are you going?" she asked.

"Wait…" he went past her through the doors. She followed slightly watching him go into the dark room.

"I think your right…it's abandoned."

He shook his head. "No it isn't…" He said. He didn't say anything else, but as soon as the door opened he sensed a ridiculous amount of people. Not only that but it seemed as if they were all trying to stand extremely still. He threw the door back and Kagome followed slightly, but he stopped her. The lights turned on and all of a sudden a large amount of people popped out from every corner imaginable. It was an absurd amount of people, it shocked him, but it didn't take long for him to understand what was going on, so his demeanor didn't change much. The room was extremely large with streamers and balloons everywhere. A large banquet table to the side and a mostly untouched main floor probably left bare for dancing. He crossed his arms slightly feeling annoyance replace his initial emotion. He turned towards Kagome who had a hand on her chest in surprise but was grinning from ear to ear. So she was in on it, things were beginning to make a lot more sense. She didn't need to use the bathroom. He smiled slightly realizing he had let some insecurities show. It seemed like a pattern when it came to Kagome. There was definitely something about her…something about the way he felt about her. If she rejected him he wasn't sure if he'd be able to recover.

As dozens and dozens of guest poured out of their hiding places they screamed scrambled happy birthday's obnoxiously. He let a small smile come across his lips though he didn't mean it. He hated surprise parties and at the moment he just wasn't in the mood for this. He had his sights set on something much more important. He turned towards Kagome who was off towards the corner. He really wanted to make his way towards her, but a lot of the guest, which were people he vaguely remembered. A few acquaintances from other parties he had been too. They said their happy birthdays and their hellos. He smiled at them while giving out his own thanks. It didn't take too long for dance music to take over the room, and for most of the people to clear out back to the dance floor. He watched the sudden jumping then turned again. Kagome was speaking to Ayame towards the few tables stacked with food, drinks, and gifts. He quickly tried to make his way over there but before he could Miroku intercepted him.

"Happy birthday man…I bet you thought I wasn't going to do all this." He said. He had two cups in his hand and he didn't hesitate to pass one to him. He grabbed it and looked down.

"What is this...?"

"Liquor duh…we also have a couple kegs…I thought we should go crazy tonight, your only 25 once."

"You're only every age once." He said while grabbing the plastic cup.

"Touché…even more reason to live it up."

"I don't know Miroku…my mom is talking about doing something with me tomorrow morning…I don't want to be too wasted."

"Don't worry about that now. You're supposed to be having fun. I mean the only reason Kouga and I even came on the trip was because of this." He nodded slightly looking around the room for Kouga. He spotted him talking it up in a corner near the dance floor.

"I'll try." He passed the cup back to him. "I'll meet up with you in a bit." He had his mind on something else completely. More than anything he saw the party as somewhat of an adherence. He really had only one thing on his mind. He turned around back to the spot he had last seen Kagome. Thankfully she was still there but Ayame wasn't. She was sort of awkwardly standing near the door. A plastic cup in her hand, she seemed so out of place with her ball gown on.

She had her eyes on him, but when he turned to face her she made sure to look away quickly. She was contemplating when to leave, if she was sticking to her original plan she would have been gone already, but she just couldn't see herself leaving just yet. She needed to speak to him more; they had made so much ground so far. The whole thing just seemed like a fantasy, to think that he might feel the same way about her. It just seemed too good to be true. When she spoke to him for some reason it felt as if all her problems disappeared. She didn't have to worry too much about going for good tomorrow. Or breaking the news that she was planning to go, she just had to worry about now.

He made his way over to her with a smile. "So you got me…you and Rin are something else." He said and she just smiled. It was something he'd probably never get used to, how gorgeous she was when she grinned. "I never saw it coming."

"Yeah well… it all seems fun. Rin really knows how to throw a party." She said. Her eyes were on the crowed dance floor and the spinning colorful lights. "Unfortunately she's not here to enjoy it."

"I'm sure whatever Rin's doing she's enjoying it very much." He mumbled and it managed to make her cheeks red. He noticed but didn't comment on it. "If you want…I was wondering if you wanted to leave early?" She looked up at him in shock.

"You can't…I can't let you do that. You have cake to cut…and gifts to open…and guest…your guest to entertain."

"Well I'm 25 now; I don't exactly cut cakes and open gifts anymore so I don't have to worry about that too much." He stepped closer to her making her heart speed up and her stomach do flips. She was in her own little corner so every step he took had him only inches away from her. "And their just here for the party…trust me." She still seemed unsure and a bit scared and he understood why, maybe he was coming on too strong. He had to remember he was dealing with Kagome, she wasn't just any girl. "I just want to continue are conversation…you know before we were interrupted."

She looked down at the cup Ayame gave her. It was filled with some clear fruity liquor, she hadn't touched it. "I don't know…I think you should enjoy your party. I don't want to ruin anything else for you. You already had to leave your father's dinner early on my account." He stared down at her for a moment a bit frustrated. He didn't know exactly what approach to take with Kagome. He already admitted he wanted a relationship with her. He was still waiting on some sort of response from her. It was like he was in foreign territory, he decided to just come out and say how he was feeling. There was no beating around the bush when it came to her.

"I don't care about the dinner Kagome…" He told her and she just nodded, but she kept her face down towards the cup. "I don't even care about this stupid party…I care about you." He said and she looked up at that. "And I sort of want to know if you feel the same way." He could see the surprise on her face, the draining of color in her flesh. "You don't have to decide now…I mean it's only fair I give you some time to think."

"No…no I don't need it." She admitted. "I feel the same…I mean I've always felt like this since…I don't know forever." She mumbled and he couldn't believe the relief that came over him. He never had such a feeling of utter content in his life.

"You have no idea how happy I am to hear you say that…I thought that. I don't know maybe I was losing you."

"Impossible…" she whispered. She was extremely happy with the declaration of not only her feelings but his to her. Yet she couldn't help her stomach from twisting, she knew better then to let this happen, she was leaving and there was no way she'd be able to break it to him. "But…I uh…I think I'm going to take off for the night." She admitted and he seemed confused. "I'm feeling a little exhausted."

"Okay….okay…just give me a minute. I'll come too."

"No…" she said quickly stopping him. "No…I'm going to go it alone. I'll take a taxi." He was too confused for words he just stared down at her as she played with the rim of the cup. "I think you deserve some fun, and we can talk tomorrow."

He nodded but he hated the idea, he wanted to be with her. Was that too hard to believe, he never had this feeling for another woman, and he didn't care if nothing happened tonight. He didn't even care if they drove to the hotel and went into their separate rooms. At least they'd have the limo ride. "Okay…I guess I'll see you tomorrow then."

She nodded slightly stepping forward. He backed up letting her through. She was very hesitant with her walk, she didn't want to leave but she knew she had to. "Happy 25th again…"

"Yeah…are you sure you want to go alone. I sort of don't want to stick around here."

"Rin put so much effort into it…and I…I just need some rest." She lied. Her stomach was still twisting but now she was feeling nauseous. She also couldn't help the overwhelming feeling of regret that took over her. It was like she was walking out on all that she could have. She had waited forever to hear him say those words, she never thought he would and now that he did. She was leaving him… it was extremely unfair. She bit her lip for a moment before walking forward. Butterflies took the place of the guilt but it felt a hell of a lot better that way. She walked up to him slowly and quickly stood on her tippy toes, she didn't reach too far but she was able to kiss his cheek gently. She was going to leave it at that, but he moved steadying her at the small of her back and kissing her fully on the lips. Her heart began beating over time, her flesh burned hot, and all worries drained away in that instant. That feeling came back, and it came fast. It was the strangest hottest burning that she had ever experienced and it was at the base of her belly. The kiss felt like it lasted forever and when it did finally end he smelled the fresh scent of tears. She hid them on his chest. He had no idea why she was crying but he didn't hesitate to put an arm around her.

"Are you okay?" He whispered…she just nodded looking up and wiping at her eyes.

"Yeah…I just…" She backed up slightly. "I should probably go now."

"Wait…"

She shook her head quickly. "I need some time…I'll see you tomorrow." She told him and as badly as he wanted to follow. He knew he had to let her leave. She went out through the double doors and he followed partially watching her run into the lobby.

"Take the limo…" he called after her, but she was already out the doors…

!

22

!

(A couple Hours earlier)

Rin's POV

She watched as he went around the limo to get to his side. Nervous couldn't even describe for a second how she felt. Her whole body was tensed, reality set in as soon as they stepped out of the dinner hall up the stairs and into the cool fall air. Even with her coat on she hugged herself tightly, she couldn't bring herself to look up at him, and when he took the lead she couldn't find words to say. She could see herself blowing everything, why was she so nervous, she wasn't into him was she?

As soon as the chauffeur opened the door she tensed again. She could see Sesshomaru mumble something to the driver and then scoot himself in. She automatically turned away towards the window; the nausea that erupted in the pit of her belly had her heaving slightly. She never had this feeling before; just thinking about what might happen in a few minutes drove her insane.

When he finally sat down he turned himself towards her but to his surprise she was facing the opposite direction. He narrowed his eyes but didn't comment on it right away. He definitely thought she'd be more animate, she seemed so eager at the dinner. "So…" he announced wanting to get her attention. She seemed hesitant but she did face forward. He didn't want to have to openly admit this but he did fully expect to be having sex tonight. He would have never agreed to leave the dinner if that wasn't the case, but Rin's disposition at this point seemed to be the exact opposite. He would have thought she'd be all over him but she actually seemed… he wasn't too sure but was she scared? "Are you okay?" He asked and she forced a smile on her face nodding awkwardly. The limo started up and he resisted the urge to cancel everything and head back to the dinner. "Are you feeling sick…do you want to…"

"No…no…" she said quickly while sitting up and facing him again. "I'm great…I was just…I was thinking."

He nodded slightly. "Really," he mumbled while scooting up towards her. "What are you thinking about?" He asked and she knew exactly what he was getting at. It wasn't that she wasn't into it, but the warm feeling she usually got when she was close to men was about ten times intensified. The closer he got the blanker her mind went. She would have at this point said something really clever, maybe sat on his lap. She could see herself do so many things, but with someone else. With Sesshomaru all she could do was stare openly at him, it was like she was that girl again, freezing in her spot yet again. He moved in so close that their knees touched. He placed a hand on her thigh and butterflies flew like crazy. She had to actually put a hand to her belly to stop it. "Are you sure you're okay? You're not going to vomit are you?"

It was such a considerate question to ask, but the way he asked it had a lot to be desired. It was almost like a threat, but she made sure to sit up and shake her head. "I'm so fine…" she stuttered while leaning towards him. He didn't move though he just stared at her face almost as if he was contemplating rather or not she was telling the truth.

"Okay…" He mumbled sliding towards the other end of the limo. "Do you need a drink…?" He asked. He was starting to understand a few things. She was nervous; her face was completely drained of color. Something was also very off with her. He was really good at picking these things up, the way she pushed for them to leave and the way she was acting now. The whole thing was night and day, he decided sex could wait. He needed to loosen her up maybe get a bit of information from her. "So what's your drink?" He asked he was looking in a closed compartment hidden in the limo. It housed glasses, a few bottles of alcohol, and what looked like some sodas.

"Uh nothing too strong…" she said though she was just trying to sound more lady like. She saw what looked like a bottle of scotch and she felt like downing it. She had to think outside the box though. She wasn't Rin right now; she needed to be any woman who could hold Sesshomaru's attention. She needed to be more like Kagome, but she didn't even know where to start. She was nowhere near smart enough, business savvy, or innocent. "Maybe just a diet coke," she suggested, that sounded like something Kagome would ask for.

"Are you sure…" he asked from his position but he was actually rolling his eyes.

"Uh yeah…I am." She said and he nodded but instead of passing her a can he instead popped open a wine bottle. He poured her a glass and turned around. She seemed surprised, it wasn't what she asked for, but she didn't argue. Secretly she was actually very pleased. He turned for a moment to put the bottle back and in that moment she downed the whole glass. He turned around again ready to speak, but when he saw her glass his words faded.

"Oh wow…that's uh…that's impressive." He noted, but he seemed a bit unsure.

"I was really thirsty." She said and he nodded while staring down at the glass.

"I'll get you more." He said and she moved slightly stopping him.

"Actually I'll go ahead…" He watched as she moved to the seat across from them. She opened up the cupboard and went for the scotch while grabbing a small glass. "Do you want some…I think I can actually mix a few things?"

"No…no I'm good, help yourself." She nodded but she felt a bit odd about the whole thing. So he was going to just sit there and let her drink alone. He didn't have to get her drunk, didn't he know this was a sure thing. She wasn't going to argue though; she liked the time to think. She poured a full glass and sat forward. She was surprised to see him just staring at her as she sat. He was wondering if she was actually going to attempt to drink that whole glass full of scotch.

"So…if you don't mind me asking. What was the hurry…?" He bluntly asked and she narrowed her eyes a bit confused. She was waiting for him to look away so she could drink.

"The hurry?" she asked while taking very small sips. She could feel herself loosening up a little. She could speak to him finally. His direct view didn't make her nauseous; she didn't mind taking bigger gulps. She had to squeeze her nose in order to throw back the remaining amount.

He lost his train of thought just watching her finish her glass in less then a few minutes. "You can really put it away." He mumbled and she looked up, her face a bright red. "It's good…you're not timid." He said quickly and she smiled nervously. "So I was asking about earlier. You seemed in a hurry to leave the dinner?"

She looked down at her lap. "Uh…I don't know…" She mumbled while glancing up slightly. She noticed a slight look of irritation on Sesshomaru's face. He didn't even bother to hide the look at all. He was extremely blunt and when he was annoyed his disposition changed completely. It sort of reminded her of Inuyasha's but worse. Sesshomaru was far more animate about it and intimidating…the whole thing freaked her out.

"Well you should try thinking a bit harder." He stated and she narrowed her eyes. Why did she feel as if he was accusing her of something? She was good at pointing out intentions, and Sesshomaru was definitely looking for some answers. She was a bit offended but she had to see things in his point of view. She was acting a bit weird, and she was scheming something. Maybe she wasn't hiding it well.

"Well…" she mumbled trying to think of what to say. He had no question as to why she seemed so vigorous about him leaving with her, but he guessed it was because she liked him. She had said it herself; she was obsessed with him, so it was important for her to spend a quick night with him. But now it was like a complete 180. She didn't even want to touch him. It stroke him as odd, and he had an extremely inquisitive nature. He could rarely take anyone at their word. "I guess…I just like you a lot." She stuttered. She couldn't bring herself to look up at him, but she knew that was the only plausible excuse.

"Well…" he said nonchalantly. It had her glancing up at him. "You have an odd way of showing it."

"What's that supposed to mean?" She asked quickly. It took no time at all for her to go on the offensive.

He smiled slightly; it was more like a sarcastic smirk. She knew the look, Inuyasha did it occasionally, but now she knew where he got it from. "I think you know what I mean."

"No I don't…" she said sitting up. She could feel annoyance come over her slightly. She didn't say anything, but she was a bit tense.

"No need to get on the offensive, I'm just making an observation."

"No…I think your making an assumption." She corrected and he placed a handsome dark eyebrow up, but it didn't impress her much. "How should I be acting…should I be all over you?" She asked and he sat up at the conversation's change of pace. His suspicions simmered a bit and he focused more on her then he had previously.

"Well that's one way of showing that you're attracted to someone." She laughed for a moment then rolled her eyes. He could sense her sarcasm. So obviously she didn't agree. "I mean let's be honest; I think we both know how this night's going to end…" She seemed shocked by that and offended even more. "Sorry if I'm being a bit direct, but the way you're behaving now compared to earlier… well it's completely night and day, and if I can be brutally honest, I must say it's a little underwhelming."

"Wow you don't waste much time." She mumbled, he picked up on it, but he decided to pretend as if he didn't.

"What was that…speak up…?"

"I said I just need another drink." She reached back into the limo's compartment. She pulled something out and he watched. Her nervousness was quickly going away; it was being replaced by complete distain. She didn't understand why she let herself get so caught up in him every time. He was nothing but a pretty façade. Regardless of how she was feeling now, she needed to bring some sort charm out. She was losing him.

She had filled her glass with another strong liquor, he wasn't sure what it was, but it was clear. She sipped at it like it was just water, but he knew better. "Okay…so tell me…?" He asked and she sighed lightly and faced forward.

"If you're anywhere near as blunt or direct as you say you are, why don't you just come out with it? Go ahead…I know exactly what you want…" she said and as soon as the words came out of her mouth the butterflies came back. He seemed shocked and she waited for his response. Her heart was thumping when instead of speaking he moved closer to her. She tried not to make any sudden moves but it was hard, why was she having these ridiculous feelings.

"I'm sure you want it too…" he mumbled, but why did it seem as if his words carried a double meaning. He grabbed her glass pulling it from her grasp and setting it down. He didn't hesitate to place his hands on her knees. It caused an array of different heated emotions to go through her. She was extremely warm, and any suspicions she had towards him sort of fluttered away. She had no idea what to do with her body, if it was anyone else she'd probably kiss him, lean forward, face him, do something, but no. She froze up like always. He didn't seem to notice though; he quickly pulled her dress up past her knees and above her thighs. She would have covered herself but she was a statue, completely frozen in her seat. All her emotions and feelings were heightened, in that note she was nothing like a sculpture. She wasn't numb at all; it was actually the exact opposite.

His hands caressed the skin of her thigh going higher and higher as he moved closer. She felt his lips on her neck, it caused chills down her spine, but it wasn't until his hands stopped close to her inner thigh did she really feel herself lose it. His kisses continued past her neck towards her jaw. The only movement she made was the clenching of her fist, the biting of her lip…nothing more. He hesitated momentarily…backing up slightly. She cursed softly. What the hell was wrong with her?

He paused and she turned to face him. She blew it! Of course she did. Why the hell would he want to have sex with a mannequin? She was a complete statue. She didn't move at all. Of course he could probably tell. She was such an idiot. He was already suspicious of her now he knew for sure. If she liked him so much why was it so hard for her to get over these stupid emotions. She felt like she needed to come up with another excuse. She thought about it for a moment then turned to face him. She was surprised to see that he was staring off past her towards the door. She turned to see what he was looking at and immediately her door opened up.

The chauffeur was standing on the other side, and it dawned on her that the limo had just stopped. She stared up in shock. Almost like she didn't know what to do, when had they stopped? Where were they? She paused for a moment and Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes slightly. "Okay…" he said making her turn towards him. "Off we go. I think we're here?"

"And where would that be."

"Hotel…" he said quickly while opening his own door. She watched him get out of the limo, and she followed a little hesitant. She knew it wasn't her hotel, so Sesshomaru was still planning to sleep with her. She hadn't ruin things completely then. She looked out towards the double entry way of the hotel. She hugged herself tightly letting the wind hit her directly. She could feel her nerves come back again, but she was surprised at the slight feeling of excitement that went through her. "Are you coming?" He called over to her. She seemed uncertain. So many things were running through her head. This was really going to happen. There was no stopping it, her plan was really working. Then all of a sudden she remembered her plan. She had to call Inuyasha. Make sure Kagome was out of the bathroom. She had to make sure everything was in order at his party. She couldn't just leave everything up to chance, not when she had gotten this far.

"Of course…" she said quickly. " I just have to make a couple calls."

"Okay…" he said "I'm on the fourth floor…room eleven." She nodded giving him a slight smile before grabbing her phone from her clutch. She took a deep breath sending a quick text to Inuyasha to insure Kagome was back in her seat. When he informed her she wasn't, she panicked slightly, sending him a message to go looking for her. She then called Ayame, made sure everything was in order, when she was all done she took a deep breath and headed upstairs. She was a bit hesitant though. If she left right now would her plan still work? Would Sesshomaru drive all the way back to the dinner? Would he call Kagome, maybe his dad? She didn't want to risk it. She looked around the spacious lobby, she could turn around right now, but something inside her didn't want to. It was a long time coming, but finally she could be with Sesshomaru, but at the same token. Sesshomaru deserved to be just left, but with his suspicious nature, that wasn't much of a choice.

She made her way to the elevator, her feelings still all jumbled up. She had this feeling she'd embarrass herself when she got up there. She could see herself freezing up as soon as she saw him. But she knew if she didn't go she'd regret it. Why? she had no idea, all her emotions were a complete mess, she couldn't sort anything out. The doors closed and she pressed the button for the fourth floor. The waiting was killing her, but she held it together. When the doors slid open she sorted out her emotions and headed down the hall. She passed a few double doors and when she headed into the double digits she paused wanting to turn around. His door was right next to her, but she just couldn't. Her emotions were jumping up and down and the anticipation was too much for her, but before she could take off running the door opened.

She paused immediately and stared forward. He was standing at the door way, looking right at her. He looked like he was just waiting, just standing near his door waiting for her to make her way down the hall. It was a strange notion, but Sesshomaru was still a man, and she knew by experience that men had needs. That was it…that's what she needed to remind herself. Sesshomaru was just an ordinary man. No matter how attractive or intimidating. She took a deep breath and forced a smile.

"Everything taken care of?" He asked and she just nodded. He didn't say anything to continue the conversation though. Almost as if he wanted to know in detail what specifically she had taken care of. It was probably all in her head though. "You ready to come in?"

She nodded again and he backed up allowing the door to open. She walked slowly into the room looking around. It was extremely big, with just one king size bed sitting in the middle of the room. It reminded her of a studio apartment; just up a couple steps in the main room was a little kitchen nook and living room suit. "Make yourself at home." He told her and she looked around passing the bed room and going up the steps.

"This hotel room…its wow…really nice."

"Yeah…it's a decent hotel. Why don't you stick to the bed room?" He told her. And she turned around not understanding exactly what that meant. When she turned she was surprised to see him right behind her. He didn't hesitate at all to carefully pull off her coat.

"Thank you." She mumbled and he nodded. She was going to continue up the stairs when it dawned on her. He wanted her to stay in the bedroom. She had been heading towards the living room subconsciously. "So" she mumbled slightly turning to face him. "Do you have anything to drink?"

"Uh…yeah…" He said. "It's getting late though…" He stirred himself to the right towards the kitchen. She didn't understand exactly what that meant, but she was a bit out of it, her phone was vibrating and she was hoping it was news from Inuyasha.

"Yeah it is…" she agreed grabbing her phone. It was from Ayame. Everything was good. She bit down on her lip as she stared forward. The kitchen nook was extremely open. She could see him going towards a mini alcohol fridge. He pulled out a bottle of some sort.

"It's already past twelve" he walked down towards her with a glass in his hands. He set the glass down and filled it to the brim with a dark red liquid. She finished sending out a couple of messages then looked up at him. He passed her the glass and she quickly took rapid sips. "So at the risk of sounding too forward…why don't you begin undressing?" She widened her eyes and looked up in complete shock. She almost spit out her wine, but instead chocked a bit and began coughing. He rolled his eyes and loosened his tie. "Are you okay?" He asked but his voice sounded very uninterested.

"I'm…I'm fine…." She said while quickly downing the rest of the glass. "Wow…you're not wasting any time."

"Of course not, I would like to sleep at some point tonight." His hands were on his button down. He was untying it while pulling off his overcoat.

"Well if you want…I can take a cab home… and you can sleep."

"Really…let's not act coy. You didn't travel all this way. Corner me at the dinner so you could ride here to go home." He said with an eyebrow up. She shrugged slightly and looked away.

"Maybe…you don't know why I do things…" she mumbled and he gave her a slight glance. She waited for his rebuttal, but he didn't bother with it. Instead he walked forward and took a seat near her on the bed. Her heart began speeding up again as he leaned in and kissed her at the base of her neck. It caused tingles but his real goal was her zipper. He went for it, and she felt the dress loosening. She didn't know why but she backed away from him at that moment. He dropped his hand from her back and looked towards her. "Sorry…I don't know why I did that." She said, and he nodded slightly moving closer again.

This time she forced herself to meet him half way despite the crazy twist and turns her stomach was going through. She leaned in close and met his lips and just like that the emotions went berserk but it was a different feeling then crazy butterflies or the twisting of her stomach in anticipation. It was warm, hot, heated. Her lips were finally touching his and the feeling was much more than any daydream she ever had. Even better than the fantasies she had of their wedding day…She leaned closer in her hands clenching his shirt, trying to get closer. She searched around his chest for the remaining buttons on his shirt. When she found them she tried yanking them open. He quickly put a hand to her wrist, moving it away slightly. "Hold on…" He said quickly unbuttoning his shirt and pulling it off. He did the same with his undershirt. She watched him in deep concentration, not even taking a moment to blink. He moved himself closer wanting to continue kissing her, but she had already moved herself in. She put a hand to his bare chest.

"Wow…so this is how you look without a shirt." She mumbled in shock. It caught him off guard slightly. She let her hand touch the contours of his chest. He was in immaculate shape, of course she had always thought he would be, but imagining something and seeing it were two different things. He watched her as she rubbed his stomach for a moment longer. She looked like a child at a candy shop, so shocked and pleased at him physically. He'd be turned off, but he accounted for this when he agreed to sleep with her. She had held a burning candle for him since she was young, so he was able to turn the other cheek when it came to her weird hang ups.

He grabbed her hands by the wrist. "I really want to see how you look without your shirt." He said quickly, bringing her left hand softly to his lips then lowering them.

"I'm wearing a dress."

"I think you know what I mean. Go ahead and take it off." He rose from his spot at that and headed up the steps. She wondered where he was headed to, but she wasn't sure she should ask.

"Wait…where are you going?"

"Never mind that…I'll be back" he called out, his hands on his belt; he was unhooking it as he walked off towards the right. She sat up looking around the room. She spotted the bottle of wine he left and reached for her discarded glass. She walked towards it filling her cup again then going back to her spot. She decided to check on her phone. She was surprised to see a missed call from Ayame. No messages from Inuyasha. She sent him a 'Happy Birthday' and then quickly called Ayame, hoping whatever she needed could be solved quickly.

The phone rang a couple times and then she answered. "Hey you called me." She whispered.

"Yeah…I wanted to check up on you. How's the plan going?"

"Everything's going accordingly, is Inuyasha and Kagome there yet?" She asked and Ayame turned around looking towards the window off to the side. The music was extremely loud and people were dancing, but they stayed off to the side. At any moment Inuyasha and Kagome would pull up and they'd have to hide.

"Nope not yet? When did you say the dinner's ending," Rin hesitated for a moment then looked down at her phone.

"It started a bit late, but it should have ended a few minutes ago."

"Well… we are all in place, and ready."

"Okay…well when they get there text me. Also watch Kagome. I'm worried that she might have gone to the hotel early or something. That would ruin everything. I've been texting Inuyasha but he's ignoring me right now. I'm worried…."

"Don't bother with it. Just hold up your end and I'll take care of mine. How are you doing with Sesshomaru anyway?"

Her stomach turned at the question and she bit her lip. "It's going good. Really good actually, I'm not freezing or anything. The dinner should be about over so I can go soon. Everything on this end is according to plan." Ayame nodded at that then looked out the window again. She saw flashing lights and she widened her eyes.

"Oh I think that's them. I'll text you."

"Oh okay…no problem...Make sure Kagome where's her dress..." The line went dead before she could finish off her question. She hung up the phone, setting it down on the desk and turning to head towards the bed. She froze in her spot when she spotted Sesshomaru at the archway. He still had no shirt on. His slacks were on, but his belt gone. He had something in his hands, a small package of some sort he put it down and stared directly at her. She gulped, hoping he hadn't heard any part of her conversation.

"Uh…I was just on the phone…." She said as an excuse, and he nodded, but she could tell something else was on his mind. "How long were you standing there for?"

He shrugged while entering the room. "Just long enough to notice that your dress isn't off yet." He said and she smiled meagerly, her emotions were still at an all time high. He walked over to her, and though she thought he'd put his arms around her, maybe kiss her, he didn't. He reached over and unzipped her dress the rest of the way down. "Okay now let's not waste anymore time." He said and his words alone sent off rockets in her stomach. She just wanted to kiss him again, get that same feeling she had earlier, but he didn't seem in the mood for that. He was ready for something a bit more intimate.

He pulled the dress down from the front, revealing her strapless bra; it was at that moment her phone vibrated. She didn't bother with it, her mind was on something else completely, but to her surprise he actually stopped. "You want to get that?" He asked backing up slightly. He had a bit of a sarcastic undertone to his voice, but it didn't register with her. Why would he be annoyed by a simple message?

"No I'm fine it's just a message." She said, but she did step to the side and get her phone. It was a message from Ayame confirming Kagome was with Inuyasha. She just smiled slightly and turned back around to face him.

"Good news?" He asked an eyebrow raised, his toned arms crossed over his chest.

"Uh…nope just news…" she mumbled stepping closer to him. "Where were we?"

"Are you sure?" He asked taking a seat on his bed. "Did Kagome end up at the party with my brother?" Her face went blank and a knowing smile played at his lips. "You must think I was born yesterday? That I'm some idiot; I've known you've been plotting something since you sat yourself in the limo."

"I don't… what are you talking about?"

"Okay you're going to play dumb…fine. I wasn't planning on bringing it up anyway." He stood up and walked forward. "Go ahead remove the dress…" He said putting his hands on her bra strap. She backed up quickly adjusting the gown so it covered her exposed skin.

"What are you talking about…I'm not playing dumb."

"Oh I suppose you want me to believe that in the middle of my father's annual dinner, Kagome conveniently disappears, while you have a sudden urge to get me away. Then in the limo the urge seems to magically dissipate. Leaving my younger brother and Kagome alone, open to attend some surprise party, that thanks to your little phone call I now know Kagome seemed to be just as surprised about."

"Okay…so what is that supposed to imply?"

"It's supposed to imply that you're planning something…like I overheard you confirm, and whatever that something is …I'm a pawn to see to it that it happens?"

She narrowed her eyes searching for some quick excuse, but it was like he could see right through her. "Okay so what, you caught me." She said shrugging. "I was planning something, I needed someone to take Inuyasha to his surprise party, and I knew if you left with Kagome I would have to, and Inuyasha would find out. Sorry…." She returned his eye contact waiting to see if he could poke holes in her lie. It was for the most part true. He didn't have to know anything about Inuyasha and Kagome's relationship, though why did it feel like he already knew for the most part.

Like she had assumed, he couldn't poke holes in her excuse, it made sense, but he didn't like it. "I hate being used…" he stated and she looked down at the carpet. She was right, he suspected something a lot earlier, but he overlooked it. Why would he do that? If he knew she was scheming something why would he entertain her, it made no sense.

"I know it was wrong sorry."

"Yeah well sorry isn't going to make up for time lost at the dinner, but I know what will…" He said and with that he came closer to her, but before he could she put her hand up stopping him.

"Okay, but…I have to know your angle. I'm not the only one scheming something up. If you knew early on I was using you for something, then why did you allow it?" She asked eyes narrowed. He visually thought about the question for a moment then looked down at her. She knew the answer, to sleep with her, so she wasn't fooling anyone when she got him to leave the dinner with her. He already had some sort of driving force pulling him her way. "So I guess you were sort of using me."

"I don't want to talk about this anymore." He bluntly stated and though she could have left it at that. Chose to either sleep with him or grab her things and go. She needed to know a few more things. She just did, and she needed to know them now. While she could speak to him without freezing, While she had him cornered.

"I do feel bad though…I know Kagome's leaving tomorrow. Tonight was practically the last night you had with her for awhile."

He seemed cross about the conversation change but he'd humor her slightly. "What are you getting at?"

"I'm just making amends."

"No you're not, you're trying to pry. Insinuating that I have romantic feelings towards Kagome, you're forgetting I read between lines very well."

"No…not at all. I didn't think you had any 'feelings.' I mean I know you have feelings for her, because I thought you were romantically seeing her." She lied waiting to see if it initiated any sort of emotion in him. It didn't though; he was good at hiding his feelings.

"Why would that matter? Is this your way of catching me in the act? Was that your true scheme, let Kagome know I'm cheating on her with you, so you can have me for yourself?" He asked and Rin flashed him an annoyed grin.

"You really think you're that desirable?" She asked and he just shrugged, getting up to head to the kitchen. She didn't think about it, she just followed behind him.

He turned on the light in the kitchen nook and she watched him as he opened the fridge. "So I'm going to assume that nothing's happening between us tonight." He pulled out something in a white Styrofoam box telling her it was leftovers. "If that's the case, I'm going to have to ask you to leave. I have to wake up early tomorrow…"

"You're a liar." She blurted out, and he just stared at her for a second then turned towards the microwave. "I know you like Kagome…" She said but that didn't seem to affect him.

"And when have I tried to deny that?" He calmly asked and for some reason that upset her. Why did she still want Sesshomaru to like her? Wasn't she over him?

"Well she doesn't want you, she wants your brother. How does that make you feel?" He still didn't seem too upset by that, and she realized that she was just trying to get under his skin. Nothing seemed to upset him and it frustrated the hell out of her.

"It's a working progress if you must know. I'm much more tactical then my brother. I'm also very patient…and I'm prone to getting what I want."

"And what's that supposed to mean?" She asked but he just shrugged. "So your tactical, does that mean your own little plan to lure Kagome away from your brother?" She asked, it was just a thoughtless question, but when she saw the nonchalant look on his face, she realized it was more than just that. It was the truth...he did have a plan...all of a sudden things began making sense... "Shit...so all this time you've been trying to get Kagome to like you." She shook her head thinking it through more as he took his food from the microwave. "And while you've been doing that, I've been doing the opposite. You're the reason Inuyasha and Kagome aren't together. You've been sabotaging me." She admitted and that caught him off guard finally. He seemed surprised by that.

"Wow…okay…" He said placing his food down. "You've been playing match maker...trying to get Kagome with my brother." He nodded thinking that through too, it caused a smirk to play on his lips when he realized something else "So that's what you were really planning to do tonight…get Kagome to escort Inuyasha to some party. You think that'll be enough to bring them together...you're like a little girl playing with her dolls. Too bad for you funs over. I don't know if you're aware of this, but Kagome's my associate now...contracts signed and active as of..." he looked at the time on the oven and smiled. "It's already past tweleve a.m. so active as of now. She's leaving this morning, to work for me. So I guess I won."

She narrowed her eyes, she could feel the steam leaving her ears she was so mad. "You are really something else. Before Kagome came on this stupid business trip she and Inuyasha were on the verge of something. You've been ruining that. It all makes sense, the dinner, transferring branches; you want her for your own." She finally understood everything now, no wonder her plan wasn't working. "And all this time…I'm sitting here trying to ease you away like you're part of the problem, when you were the problem this whole time. Mean while I'm trying to get you to like me, I'm obsessing over you, freezing up like I'm back in high school, when you're just a superficial peice of shit." She mumbled and he stared at her as she spoke to herself taking in what she was saying.

"I'm the superficial one?" He asked an eyebrow up. "I'm not the one playing love match like this is some goddanm romantic comedy...it's real life... things don't work out that way."

"Shut up..." she snapped, and that took him off guard. People didn't usually talk to him that way, especially not women. " I can't believe I liked you...Why would I like anyone who'd do that to their own sibling? Your brother loves Kagome, and just because she fits some mold that you'd want as a fiancée or a wife, or an employee you'd take that from him. You're a monster." He opened his mouth ready to rebut her but she put a hand up. "I said shut up…I don't want to hear it." In surprise he actually shut his mouth and stared at her. "I've wasted how many years just obsessing over you. Telling people I knew you inside and out. I must have been out of my mind. How could you…why would you?"

"It's a little something called survival…."

"Of the what…? The fittest…." She said interrupting him mid sentence... "What are you and Inuyasha both lions and Kagome's the last gazelle on the planet. You're an idiot. I can't believe I was going to have sex with you…wow. So glad that didn't happen. Now that I know what you've been planning, I can combat it. If you think there's a possibility that Kagome's going to be with you, then you're sadly mistaken." She smiled slightly while turning around to leave. "Have a nice life..." she called back... He hesitated for a moment. He didn't know why, but as soon as she left the kitchen he stood up, ready to call her back or follow her out.

It was a strange desire for him, but he just ignored it. He knew it was probably just a need to defend himself, she kept cutting him off, yet that night when everything was said and done, and she had been gone for a few hours. He found it hard to sleep, his mind was consumed with thoughts of her….he could see this posing as a bit of a problem.

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A/N: Review, this is the end of part one of the story, and we are heading into part two...away from the trip and into Kikyo's wedding! yay.

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