Recall: "They all seem nice." Inuyasha placed a piece of hair behind her ear. "Inuyasha, I really do appreciate everything you and your family has done for me. I never thought this could happen." A few tears dropped from her eyes again. "I'm still scared though." She admitted. He then wrapped his arms around her.

"Don't worry. Everything's gonna be fine." He kissed her head a few times. "You trust me?" She nodded. "Then trust me to protect you, okay?"

"Okay." He kissed her on the lips before wrapping his arms around her in a tight hug; to which of course she returned.

Of course she could trust him. He had been helping out a great deal. From the constant comforting to the promise of a new home, Inuyasha has kept his word. Because of this she was…

Tranquil

Harmonious

At peace...

But how long will it last?

Chapter 10: How to Lose Faith

It's been about a couple of weeks since Kagome has been residing with the Takahashi family and she couldn't have been happier. She was resting easier, eating more and experiencing life the way it was meant to be. To her much needed luck, there weren't any problems that occurred after Inuyasha came to her rescue. Instead, she was getting everything she missed out in life for the past couple of years and even more. It was as if she was actually a part of a family; which was an unfamiliar feeling. Even though everything was working out fine, she still didn't understand why they were more than welcoming to a perfect stranger. Never the less, there was no way she was going to let go of such good luck.

It was a Sunday afternoon, and the couple thought it would be a good idea to spend the day out. After a walk in the town, Inuyasha couldn't help, but to push her to a ramen shop. She was still on her first bowl while he was gobbling down his third. She shook her head in disbelief. Could he be more obnoxious on a date? The thought made Kagome blush; she really did like being out with Inuyasha, going on a few 'dates' here and there. Although he hasn't officially given her a title, it still felt like they were going out. Besides, Kagome was way too embarrassed to ask him. Her thoughts came to an end when she felt a pluck to the head.

"Ow!" She exclaimed, rubbing the sting out. "Why you do that?"

"Well, you're fucking quiet. Say something will ya." He said, slurping the last bit of his noodles. "Hey boss! Another bowl…" He shouted out, the chef giving him a quick nod.

"Don't you think you've had enough?" She asked, still slurping her noodles.

"Never." He said, pretty soon a waitress handing him two bowls. "Hey, only said one."

"The chef said, this bowl's on the house, for your lovely girlfriend. She needs her little tummy filled too." She winked before leaving. The comment cause Kagome to have her face completely red. Inuyasha just shrugged before tackling his next bowl.

"You never answered me." He stated.

"About what?" She asked, moving onto the next bowl.

"Why are you so quiet?"

"Just a lot on my mind, is all." She whispered, taking a sip of her drink.

Inuyasha set his bowl down, exhaling out trying to relax himself. He wanted to tell Kagome the truth about her being his intended, but how could he when she has a lot on her plate already? He didn't want to scare her away, but he also didn't want to wait until the last minute. In all honesty, if she was a perfect stranger, he'd probably wouldn't allow her to stay with him. However, since she was his intended, in a strange way it all worked out.

"Kagome…" She looked up. "I gotta tell you something." She put her drink down.

"Shoot." Red tinted his cheeks slightly as he looked away, starting to feel embarrassed.

"I'm not repeating myself so you better listen." He said kind of harshly making Kagome chuckle. Since being with him, she noticed that he could unintentionally come off rude, but that usually meant he was nervous.

"Nothing to get riled up about."

"I'm not riled up!"

"Okay. Just get it off your chest." He nodded, holding one of her hands.

"You see…Me letting you live with me is a little more complicated than me being nice." She let out a laugh.

"What are you talking about?"

"The truth is…"

"Aye! Inuyasha…" He growled at the lack of luck. Turning around, he was surprised to see Miroku. But to Kagome's dismay, he wasn't alone.

"What's up, Miroku?" Inuyasha greeted, tightening his hold on Kagome's hand

"Not much, we didn't think you'd be out."

"Let alone with her." Sango chimed in. Kagome gave her a smile plastered with annoyance.

"Nice to see you too, Sango." No response. "Well, since you guys are here, would you like to join us?"

"Kagome…" Inuyasha whined, looking betrayed. He was about to tell her something important.

"Actually we were…"

"Sure!" Miroku cut off. Kagome switched to sit next to Inuyasha while the couple took her seat.

"What the heck are you doing?" She whispered to her meddling boyfriend.

"Be nice, love."

"Are you kidding? I told you and Inuyasha what she did to me." He said nothing, instead ordering a couple of bowls for himself and Sango.

"So what brings you two out?" Kagome asked while Inuyasha was gobbling his noodles once again.

"Thought I'd take my beloved Sango out on the town." She rolled her eyes as he caressed her cheek.

"So…when have you two been going out?" Kagome blushed.

"Actually, we're not…"

"A few weeks." Inuyasha stated, his mouth filled with noodles. Kagome looked at him in shock.

"Wait what…"

"It's been a few weeks, right?" He repeated, this time kissing her on the cheek making her jaw drop.

"I-I mean, I guess."

"And you haven't been to school. Anything happen?" Miroku brought up. Kagome wasn't really sure how to respond. She didn't really want to parade what happened to her, at the same time, it wasn't like she was keeping it a secret.

"Ya. Some things came up." She answered simply.

"Probably best you don't show up to a place you aren't needed." Sango interjected, slurping her noodles. Miroku elbowed her softly.

"Wow, thanks. Tell me how you really feel."

"I don't think you'd like to hear how I really feel."

"Then how 'bout you shut up." Inuyasha finally snapped, causing Sango to be silent. Miroku sighed, shaking his head at his girlfriend's blatant disrespect. The tension was thick. So uncomfortable, the silence was actually more inviting than uttering another word. Paying attention Kagome one by one, started to pluck the onions out of her bowl which easily caught someone's eyes.

"Still can't eat onions." Sango finally spoke up.

"I can't stand onions."

"You can't even taste them."

"I always taste them."

"Never with my noodles."

"Because your noodles are made of magic and mystery." Miroku and Inuyasha exchanged a confused glance, eventually shrugging accepting of the fact that they seem to be getting along nicely.

"You've had the pleasure of tasting Sango's cooking?" Miroku asked.

"Are you kidding? I was one of her first customers. Sango use to make me leak porridge when I was sick, and she also use to make little tea cakes when she invited me for slumber parties."

"You'd make bubble tea…" Miroku heard his girlfriend whisper.

"Sounds like it was a lot of fun." He said to her, trying to get her more involved in the conversation. But, Sango shook her head, taking another bite of her noodles.

"That was a long time ago."

"Very long…"

"I doubt things would ever be the same."

"I agree." As much as Kagome would like things to be the same, given her home life situation was very destructive, she was worried that Sango would get involved as well. Even if we become friends again, will that asshole come after her as well?

The rest of their meal was pretty much eaten in silence. Kagome was amazed how much Inuyasha was able to eat, teasing him that he basically ate a meal for a family of ten. After paying for the noodles, the two couples made their way outside.

"So, I guess we'll see you in school tomorrow, then?" Miroku said, shaking Inuyasha's hand. Suddenly, Kagome stepped up.

"Actually, can you guys give me and Sango a few seconds?" Sango looked skeptical.

"Why?"

"I just want to talk to you for a second."

"You sure?" Inuyasha asked.

"Ya, I'll be fine." He nodded, kissing her on the cheek before him and Miroku walked off.

"Okay so, what is it you wanted to-" Her words were cut off when Kagome wrapped her arms around her, which took Sango back. "W-what are you…?"

"I'm sorry." She whispered, squeezing her best friend. "I didn't mean it…" She said, referring to their falling out.

"K-Kagome I… Are you…what?" She was pretty much speechless as tears ran down her face. She tried to resist, but it was inevitable as Sango embraced her friend. The truth was, she really did miss her friend, and she didn't mean to be such an ass. But, she was just so hurt and betrayed that she wanted Kagome to feel how she felt.

"Ya…It's been a lot."

"Why didn't you ask me for help? My father would have let you stayed with me."

"There was no way I was going to ask for your help. I mean…I really shouldn't have asked for Inuyasha's help. I…I just couldn't do it anymore."

"If I'd known, I never would have asked Naraku about you." Kagome looked up enraged.

"You fucking talked to him?" Sango rolled her eyes, throwing her hands up.

"Well, what was I supposed to do? I was worried, and I went to him hoping to find out something."

"What did he say?" She scoffed.

"That you were fucking around some older guy."

"Of course he would say that." Sango then grasped Kagome's hands with hers.

"Seriously, you have to tell me if you need anything. Any kind of help, anything, and you tell me about it. I…understand that you won't be able to tell me everything, but I promise, I'll be patient. So please, don't hide anything from me anymore, okay?"

"Ya…definitely."

The two exchanged phone numbers before returning to their partners. They said their farewells before parting ways.

"So what happened?" Inuyasha asked as the two walked down the road.

"Sango and I are friends again."

"That's a fucking relief." A smirk was given his way, playfully pushing him. "Seriously, I was about to beat her ass."

"Inuyasha!" She gasped. "She's a girl." He huffed.

"She can handle herself." Kagome smiled.

"I'm really glad too." They were quiet for a few minutes before Kagome realized what Inuyasha said earlier. "So…we're dating?" The question caused Inuyasha to blush, suddenly.

"Well…ya, isn't it obvious?" He asked, scratching the back of his neck nervously.

"W-well I don't remember us ever making it official."

"Was I supposed to? Should I scream it to everyone that passes by?" She blushed, shoving him playfully.

"Of course not! I just meant you didn't ask me."

"I don't need to ask you." She chuckled.

"Oh? Are you that confident that I would have said yes?"

"You don't have to. Fate already said yes for you."

"What are you…" Her words were halted, eyes widened as she refused to walk any further.

"Hey, what's wrong?" He asked, rubbing her arms. She just continued looking straight ahead.

"Saimyosho…" She whispered.

"What?" Inuyasha asked, confused.

"We have to leave…"

"What?" She suddenly grabbed him by the arm and started to run. Confused, Inuyasha allowed her to pull him along. Soon, she led them behind an alley. "What's going on?"

"That…" He looked over to see what appeared to be a giant bug with a wasp like appearance hovering the sky. "That's a Saimyosho. Naraku's little eyes."

"I'm sorry, what?"

"Every time I run away, that thing always follows me and tells Naraku were I am. That's why I never get anywhere very far."

"So, the fucking spider won't know if you are, if this shit is gone?"

"Pretty much."

"Hm…taken care of." Before she knew it, Inuyasha jumped up, soaring through the sky before his claws connected with the little annoyance, slicing it before her eyes. Soon, he landed in front of her, a big victory smirk plastered on his face. However, Kagome didn't look as if she was in the mood for a triumphant cheer.

"He's gonna come for me."

"What? No, I just killed it. You saw me." She just kept shaking her head in denial.

"No…I knew it was too good to be true. He's gonna come for me and take me back to that fucking…" She placed her hands over her head, her breathing increasing in speed.

"Hey…" Gently, Inuyasha used both his hands to caress her cheeks, kissing her on the head causing her to blush. "Relax. It's gonna be okay. You trust me right." Staring into his eyes gave her a calming feeling. Of course she could trust him, he was helping her out tremendously. Slowly, she nodded.

"Ya…" He smiled.

"Let's get home." Taking her hand, they made their way back to the main road, walking home.

~.*.~

Inuyasha groaned as he made his way to his locker. It was only the middle of the day and he was already dreading what was to come in the next coming hours. Now that Kagome wasn't returning to school, there really wasn't any form of enjoyment. Good thing it's my last year. He thought, groaning once again. Then it's off to fucking college.

Truth be told, he wasn't exactly sure how he wanted to continue his education. Of course, his parents already had the college for him in mind, all that was left was to take the test and hope for the best. He honestly didn't care in the slightest. All that mattered was that Kagome was with him. Hm… does she even want to go to college? What would she want to do…? Of course, he would ask these questions when the time is right. For the time being, he doesn't want to put any form of unnecessary pressure on her.

Pretty soon, he came to his locker, punching in the code when he was suddenly approached by someone he was expecting to see for some time.

"Dog."

"Spider." He responded, grabbing a book before closing his locker. Ever since the mishap, things have been quiet for the past couple of weeks. Not that he was complaining, but he still found it rather suspicious.

"Where's the girl?" Naraku suddenly asked.

"Don't know what you're talking about." He stated, attempting to walk to his next class. Naraku refused to move. "Get out of my way."

"Where is she?" He questioned again, this time with a little more force. Inuyasha smirked, making Naraku noticeably angry.

"No idea. Ran off after a few days."

"You're lying."

"And if I am?" Inuyasha challenged, pushing past Naraku when he was grabbed by his shoulder.

"You can get out of this now." He said, trying to bargain. "Bring her back home and I'll stay out of your way. Continue with this little game, and you'll regret it." Inuyasha growled, pulling back away from him.

"You threatening me, teach?" He asked, getting in his face. "Last time I checked, I had you out cold." Naraku scoffed.

"You were lucky the last time. She's had her fun, but now it's time for her to come home. Father and I are worried."

"I bet you are. Worried that whatever bullshit you've been doing to her will be exposed." Naraku growled at him, but Inuyasha wasn't backing off. "I don't know everything that you've done, but once I find out, you and your pedo dad won't be a problem anymore." He stepped closer to him. "And for your sake, you better hope the cops get to you before I do." With that said, he continued on to his next class, leaving the spider behind.

"Very well, dog." He said out loud, pulling out his phone. He punched in the numbers before bringing it up to his ear. "Hello, police…Yes, I'd like to report a crime…"

~.*.~

With all the nonsense that was going on, Kagome opted for the alternative of taking night classes at a separate school. After explaining her situation to Inuyasha's parents, there was no way they were allowing her to return to such a violent situation. In fact, Inutashio informed her that he would personally see to it that she never has to worry about her step family again. As much as a relief that was to her, she still was a little worried that things weren't going to be that easy. But she trusted them, so hopefully everything would be okay.

It was the middle of the day and Kagome was completing the rest of her homework in the living space. Her class started at six and she wanted to make sure everything was in order. It pained her to admit this, but she was falling way behind in her studies due to all the abuse. She was determined to get through these classes and do a lot better with her education. She hummed to herself, while putting the final details on her assignment when the door suddenly opened. Kagome smiled when she saw who it was.

"Hey Ms. Izayoi, you're home early." She said, walking to them before picking up Shippo, who was more than happy to see the new house guest.

"I know, but I just had to check on you." Izayoi explained, putting away her jacket. Kagome exhaled and gave her a reassuring smile.

"Really, I'm fine. You've done enough for me."

"Can't be too sure. And have you been taking your medicine? You have your doctor's appointment coming up in a few days." She asked, placing her hand on the child's head to see if she had a fever.

"Yes, everything is fine." The teen stated, helping Shippo from his coat, tickling him a few times.

"Well, your father…" She coughed a little. "I mean Mr. Inutashio wants to talk a few things regarding your step family." Kagome's smile fell.

"Oh ya, that."

"Sweetie I know this is going to be hard for you. But, this needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. They need to be punished for their actions." You don't know the half of it… Kagome thought, her mind going back to her mother.

"Ya, okay." She agreed. "Hey Ms. Izayoi…"

"Yes?"

"I've noticed you and Mr. Inutashio have been referring to yourselves as mom and dad lately…" Izayoi looked worried for a brief second.

"Oh, we have, have we?"

"What, are you planning on adopting me, next?" Kagome laughed jokingly. Izayoi didn't want the child to know that she was Inuyasha's intended. Since all this silliness with her family has been happening, Inuyasha hasn't found the right time to come up with it. Still, the in laws were all too happy accepting the girl as theirs to the point where they've almost out themselves. This would be one such occasion. However, to Izayoi's luck, they were interrupted by the ringing of the house phone.

"Haha…the phone. Excuse me for a second, dearest. Shippo, why don't you go to your room and watch some T.V. Kagome's still working on her homework." The boy nodded before running upstairs. Kagome went back to do her homework when her stomach dropped. She couldn't help, but to hear Izayoi getting a little irate on the phone. And the longer the conversation, the louder and angrier her voice got.

"What…That's absurd, he did nothing wrong. She came out of…" She was silent a little while longer. Kagome slowly walked closer to the kitchen where Izayoi was, not wanting to eavesdrop, but she could tell something was wrong. "No…NO! I will be there in a minute. They better not ask him any questions until my lawyer arrives, do I make myself clear." She screamed into the phone before angrily hanging up. She let out a breath before looking up at Kagome.

"Come on honey, get your coat."

"What's the matter?" Izayoi stopped for a second, trying to compose herself.

"Inuyasha's being arrested." Kagome stumbled a bit.

"W-what?"

"That was the assistant principal. They took him into custody a few minutes ago."

"For what?"

"Assault and kidnapping." Her jaw dropped, immediately rushing to get her shoes and coat. Tears couldn't help but to sting her eyes. She knew this was too easy. She knew that those bastards were going to make things difficult for her, now they've roped Inuyasha into this mess. This whole event was making her understandably upset and noticeably shaken. To come so far and it was about to be pulled from her. She was just so…

Frustrated

Angry

…Defeated

She was starting to lose faith…

.

.

~~~~~My CoMmEnTs~~~~~

7-2-2017

*Sorry for the long wait once again. This story is slightly difficult for me because I keep on changing my mind. Forgive me, hopefully you still enjoy it.

Please review and let me know what you think.

Thanks a bunch!