A/N: here you have it people! The official first chapter to continue this old ass fic! lol I worked really hard on it and I super hope you guys enjoy it. I made it really fluffy because alot of things are gonna start happening and i just REALLY love fluff lol Please, tell me what you think! I love talking to you guys :D Also, i really tried to make it 10,000 words but dammit i'm 500 short lol
Disclaimer: I own nothing.
Chapter thirty-four: Somewhere Only We Know
A faint chiming noise was the catalyst to Kagome's early awakening that Saturday. She had been told to sleep in as late as she wanted, and after a very taxing Friday, the now sixteen-year-old had been eager to take Izayoi's offer. Initially, she tried to ignore the detested noise and shoved the source of it underneath the pillow beside her head. But it only muffled the sound, which oddly was even more annoying than before. With a despondent moan into the soft fabric of her sheets, Kagome sluggishly pulled her cellphone from under the pillow and sat up on her elbows. Her face pulled into a disgruntled expression as her mass of unruly hair hung in her face, but it was the phone's bright screen that put her in such a terrible mood. Who was sending messages at seven in the morning? Obviously, someone who wanted her to suffer. Numbly she navigated the smartphone until she opened the only unread message. It was from Sesshoumaru, and there was a video file she had to download. While her phone began the process of downloading, Kagome moaned again and let her head fall back down onto the flat mattress. She'd just close her eyes til the file was complete; just for a minute or two.
When Kagome opened her eyes again, it was nine o'clock in the morning and she could hear her father walking down the hallway towards the grand staircase. His fine shoes fell loudly against the hardwood floor, growing louder as he passed by her door. Sniffling her nose, Kagome rubbed her fingers into the crusty corners of her eyes and stretched muscular legs, smiling at the satisfying pops that came from her stiff joints. This was a much better way of waking up, in her not so unbiased opinion. But then, as her mind began to slowly reboot, she remembered the video Sesshoumaru had sent! Flipping over onto her back, she held the phone above her face and quickly opened the file, turning the device sideways to let the video maximize. His face sudden appeared, and a smile curled at Kagome's pink lips. Sesshoumaru was somewhere outside, seated in the shade of a tree, and Kagome could only assume that he was in between classes at his college campus. He began talking, but there was no sound. Quickly turning up the volume, Kagome breathed a relieved sigh when she heard his voice.
"-day Kagome. You're sixteen and I don't know how to feel about that." Smiling to herself at his slightly upset face, she felt the brotherly love radiating from his video. "I'm sorry that I can't be there in person to tell you this, but it won't be very much longer until I come home. There are some things that I've been meaning to tell you, but I hate sentimentality and clichés, so I've been putting it off for some time. I suggest you save this to an external hard drive as well, because this probably won't come out of my mouth again." Kagome rolled her eyes, but her smile could not be diminished. She knew he was not good with expressing emotions other than contempt or sarcasm, but his stalling was just so endearing. She watched as he took a small pause to look at his surroundings, then his attention was caught by a passing student who shared a few words with him before he could turn back to the video.
"Kagome, thank you for stepping up while I've been gone. There's no one else I would trust to visit my mother in my absence. I know what kind of impact you've had on her from what the staff have told me, and I can't say that I expected any less. You have a way about you that make people like you, Kagome. I tried for a very long time to detest you, but like an inoperable tumor you imbedded yourself into my life and forced me to accept you." Kagome had to pause the video there, because she couldn't hear him over her bewildered laughter. Only Sesshoumaru could make an insult sound like a compliment, or vice versa. After she calmed down a bit, she hit play. "And with father, you've made him completely different. When it was just Inuyasha and I, he was not attentive or concerned beyond our grades and behavior. It's a bit late for me, but I know it's done much to help Inuyasha; despite him being a lost cause. So, I suppose that I just wanted to let you know that I am grateful for this day, because it is the day you were born. If you could, the next time you visit my mother, pass on my best wishes and deepest apologies that I am not there to be with her in person. Let her know that she's never far from my mind and I will come see her soon." He paused for a moment, as if to look around suspiciously before the last part of his message. "I love you both. Happy birthday, Kagome."
With that, his video cut off and Kagome was left with a painful lump in her throat. Closing her eyes, she brought the phone to her chest and held it close to her heart, as if she could hug him through the device. Sesshoumaru's absence was still painful, and she was counting the days until he graduated and would return to the city. With a heavy sigh, Kagome decided that today was going to be an amazing day. Sitting up in her bed, she threw her legs over the side and stretched her arms and back. It was at that moment that her door suddenly burst open and an excited woman came into the room with a loud party horn in between her lips. Kagome had been utterly surprised and jumped back at the sudden intrusion, but when her mother blew into the curled, plastic tube, the sixteen-year-old could help but laugh at the squeaking honk that came of it.
"Happy birthday, Kagome! It's your sweet sixteen!" nearly jumping in place, Izayoi took her daughter into a tight embrace the moment Kagome stood up from the bed. "I have your day all planned out! It starts with your favorite breakfast in the world, then you and your friends are coming with me to the Mandarin Oriental Spa for hours of relaxation and pampering. Sango and Ayame are already on their way here so we'll leave in about an hour. Then after that we'll get makeovers and buy you a dress for tonight and come home for the party!" If it was at all possible, Izayoi was more excited about it all than Kagome, but her joy was quickly rubbing off on the teenager. Smiling brightly, Kagome closed her eyes when she got a kiss at the top of her head, one that left a bright red lipstick imprint. Such was tradition for her and Inuyasha on their birthdays. "Alright, get dressed in something comfortable. Don't worry about makeup or anything. Come down for breakfast when you're ready. I love you, Kagome."
Left standing in her bedroom, dressed in her yummy sushi pajamas that were eerily similar to the pajamas work by a certain Vampire Slayer that Kagome had been obsessed with a few years back, she was brought back to reality by a loud and demanding cat at her feet.
"Oh! Buyo, I'm sorry." Stooping down to pick his fat body up, she cradled him like a newborn to take him to her adjoined bathroom. His food bowl had not been filled yet and there would be no peace for anyone until it was made full. "Today is going to be the best day ever, Buyo. So many people are going to be at your house tonight!"
"Mom, check it out. This is the song we're gonna use for the talent show next month." Inside the elegant black limo, four women were relaxing and having an amazing time. They were on the way to the city when traffic, as usual, was causing the ride to take a bit longer. Kagome, Ayame, and Sango were huddled together, taking pictures with their phones and enjoying sparkling cider in an attempt to feel mature. Izayoi, though she was the adult and chaperone, felt like one of them as well when they pulled her in for a picture. Though she rarely had the thoughts anymore, she couldn't help but wonder if Rin would have grown to like the same things as Kagome. Could there have been a place for the both of them? Pushing those dangerous thoughts aside, Izayoi sat back to watch the girls go through the motions they'd come up with to match the song.
"What song is this?" She asked, holding the phone that the music was coming from. Kagome and her friends were lost in their own world as they watched each other correctly execute the upper-body dance moves she had choreographed. Izayoi was a little taken back by the way they jutted their chests out in beat with the music. When had Kagome learned to flip her hair like that? But before she could voice some motherly concerns, the girls burst out in fits of laughter when Ayame accidently elbowed Sango in the neck. The sight was very cute, reminding the thirty-something of when the three girls had first kindled their friendship. She was so glad to see Kagome having such a wonderful time, and wanted every single part of the day to go perfectly…which was why she had second thoughts about her husband and son decorating the house for the party.
Upon arrival at the spa, which was on the thirty-fifth floor of a very tall high-rise building, Izayoi and the girls all slid sunglasses onto their faces and piled out of the lengthy car. "Come on girls," like a mother hen keeping her chicks under her wing, Izayoi's arms stretched out with Kagome and Sango on her left and Ayame on her right. Brusquely, she led them inside to get out of the chilly November weather. People glanced at the women who were dressed rather casually for such an upscale building, but many were accustomed to it considering there was a world-class spa up above. They rode the elevator for the longest time, it seemed, but when the doors slid open, all three girls couldn't stop from gushing at the extravagance.
"Mom, this is amazing." Kagome breathed excitedly, her eyes wide as they took in everything around her. The entire spa had been rented out just for them, and women in clean uniforms waited in preparation to serve for the next four hours. It began with full body massages, with all four recipients laying on a massage table facing the floor-to-ceiling windows for a beautiful view of the city. Tranquil music played in the background, lulling them into calmer states of mind as their muscles were treated to euphoric massages. The woman working on Kagome's legs commented on the definition and strength she had, questioning what kind of sport she was in. "I dance ballet," the drowsy girl responded before letting out a hiss of pleasure as her ankle was rolled in the woman's expert hands. As their time at the spa went on, they were treated to moisturizing clay masks and a relaxing hot sauna experience. Their bodies were exfoliated with sea salt from far away oceans, then lathered with exotic and rich lotions that left them glowing afterwards. With a break to enjoy privately prepared sushi for lunch, their visit ended on a high note with a relaxing session of yoga and meditation.
"Is this right?" A strained voice asked from atop a ladder while stretching to hold up a string of glittery letters. They read 'Happy Birthday' in alternating colors of blue and black, and matched the general theme of the rest of the decorations. The usually well kept manor had been transformed in a matter of a few hours. There were large balloons in almost every room of the first floor, all in shades of blue, with accents of silver and black. In the dining room, huge silver balloons that spelled out Kagome's name lined the back wall. Soon, caterers would be coming to set up tables with delicious food and drinks for all the guests to enjoy. A DJ was also hired to keep the atmosphere exciting and fun, and would be stationed at the top of the grand staircase, also serving as a barrier to the private bedrooms of those that lived there. Both the living room and sitting room had been transformed to meet different needs. The furniture in the sitting room had been put in storage to protect the antique pieces and provide the guests a place to dance and mingle. In the living room, Inuyasha had set up his newest game console with Kagome's favorite karaoke and dance games to entertain others. A photo booth had been rented as well, complete with props to capture silly memories of the night. On Izayoi's behest, a professional photographer had been hired to document the more candid moments for his mother to look back at down the line.
Inu-Taisho stood back, looking up at the way his son was trying to hang the banner, and seemed to make the boy hold the painful position longer than necessary before approving it. With a relieved sigh, the now eighteen-year-old placed a piece of tape over the corner to hold the plastic string of letters and began descending the ladder.
"That's it. That's the last of the decorations. Thank God." He muttered ruefully and collapsed the metal ladder, ready to take it outside to the storage shed. Still dressed in his pajamas, a pair of black boxers and an old band t-shirt, Inuyasha was putting off dressing for the party until the last possible moment. In the next hour, the hired help would begin to show up and then guests would begin filtering in around six o'clock. Izayoi and the girls weren't due to come back until seven, allowing for the perfect set up of a surprise. Kagome had asked for a simple party with her closest friends and family…but of course that wasn't going to happen.
"I'm not ecstatic by the idea of having to take all this down when it's over…but I suppose it'll be worth it if Kagome has a good time tonight." Inu-Taisho sighed heavily, watching his youngest son easily hefting the ladder onto one shoulder. He was struck by how much the kid had gown, and for a moment remembered the time when he could still fit inside his lap. Now, standing at his full height of five foot, ten inches tall, Inuyasha could no longer be considered a child…in the physical sense. Yes, he'd developed muscles from years of basketball and lifting weights, but mentally he was not done maturing. It was a hard pill to swallow, considering the elder brother had set a standard that was damn near impossible for the younger to meet, but Inu-Taisho had come to terms with that. He followed Inuyasha out the front door and round the side of the house to get to the storage shed.
"If Kagome doesn't appreciate everything we're doing, I'm gonna beat some sense into her." Inuyasha huffed as he set the ladder inside the shed. A cold breeze ghosted past them, causing the younger man to shiver and hug himself. "Crap it's cold!" Dashing towards the backyard, Inuyasha navigated around the hedges and pool to get to the backdoor entrance of the manor. "Wanna see if there's a game on?" He asked his dad over his shoulder, holding the door open courteously. Inu-Taisho nodded silently and made his way past the plethora of balloons and streamers to get to the living room. Both of them fell back on the leather couch and let out twin sighs that they both noticed were very similar. Inuyasha smiled sheepishly and Inu-Taisho let a soft laugh rush through his nose as he turned the TV on. They were quiet for a while, eyes trained on the flat screen in search of an interesting game to watch, but Inu-Taisho felt the need to bridge the silence.
"So, you're graduating this year. Have you given any thought to which college you'll be attending?" It was a sore subject, one Inuyasha had been avoiding since he started Junior year. Fidgeting nervously, he knew there was no escaping this conversation and decided to just take the plunge, rip the band aid off, and all those sayings that applied to the situation.
"Well, Dad, I was thinking I wouldn't go to college." He started slowly, like the words were reluctant to leave his mouth. Unable to look over at his father, Inuyasha focused on the TV with an intensity that could have melted ice. "I think – no…I am going to take a year to travel and maybe take some classes at this conservatory I've been doing research on. I want to be a musician. I want to make music and play it in front of crowds…that's my dream." His resolve was beginning to flake with each word. Why was his dad being so quiet?! With a nervous gulp to relieve the tightness in his throat, he waited for Inu-Taisho to respond. Whoever spoke first would lose the upper-hand. But damn that man could play the game well, because it was nearly five minutes of torture before he came up with something to say.
"I've always known you wouldn't want to take the same path as Sesshoumaru. You two couldn't be any more different, despite how much I wanted you to be like him when you were younger." Those words hurt, making Inuyasha's gaze drop down in bitterness. In his lap, his hands balled into fists, resentful of those words. "It took a while for me to accept that you're different, Inuyasha. You don't want the same things that Sesshoumaru wants, or what I want for you. I may not understand why you want to pursue a career in music when you could be much more secure in finances, but now that you're legally an adult, I no longer have the right to influence your decisions." This talk was taking a very curious and unexpected turn. Inuyasha could hear the difficulty his father was having with saying these things, and knew better than to interrupt.
"I came to this country chasing a dream. I wanted to be successful and to provide a life for my children that I didn't have, and to allow you opportunities. If music is your dream, I won't stand in the way. I don't agree with your choice, but I am proud that you've at least made a decision and have a plan going forward…however." Inuyasha bit back a smart-aleck comment at that last word. "You have no money of your own, Inuyasha. With what funds would you travel and pursue music? Chasing a dream costs money. So, I suggest that after you graduate you come work at the company and start saving. I'll be cutting your allowance in half, so you'll have to learn to budget and delay your insatiable need for instant gratification. If you can prove to me that you have the maturity to do those things, I won't stand in the way of your dream." Silence; except for the commentator of the sports game still going on before them.
Inuyasha couldn't believe what he was hearing. Not even in his wildest dreams had he expected to get a blessing of any kind from his father. No longer was he expected to stand in the dark shadow of his brother. He was being pushed out into the sunlight to cast his own! It was a sudden and intense relief that caught him off guard, forcing Inuyasha to breathe deeply in order to calm down. Then, without expecting it, a choked sound bubbled up from somewhere inside of him. His eyes stung and nose felt stuffed, and there was a deafening ringing going on in his ears. His father had acknowledged his dreams and even offered his assistance in achieving them. Inuyasha's eyes shut tightly as he doubled over, his arms folding in front of his face as he held back the tears and sobs that wanted to come out. Then, there was a strong hand at the back of his head. Inuyasha shuddered as he felt his father move said hand down to the back of his neck to grip the strong muscles there, offering strength and acceptance without the need for words. For two men who had so often butted heads in the past, this was an unprecedented occurrence that left them speechless.
It was dark by the time Izayoi and the girls pulled up to the manor in the limousine, a little before seven o'clock. It was suspiciously quiet as they made their way to the front doors, but Kagome was too distracted by the day's earlier events to notice. After the spa, they'd gone to the Soho location of Bloomingdale's to purchase outfits for the special evening. Kagome couldn't believe her mother was willing to doll out so much money for a small birthday party, but was reassured many times that it was alright and very much deserved. They'd already had their hair and makeup styled, and it was agreed that Kagome had never appeared so grown up. She wasn't one who normally worried about makeup, usually content with just a bit of concealer and mascara. So, the transformation was radical and breathtaking. Waited on by an attentive staff, Kagome had eventually decided on a gorgeous cocktail dress that easily catapulted her wardrobe from being childish and understated into something elegant and refined.
It was a baby blue color for the most part, with the top consisting of a sheer, nearly transparent fabric designed with a high neckline and sleeves that hung loosely just below her shoulders. But, along the front, in that baby blue color, flowers and leaves had been stitched into the delicate fabric to cover the chest, as well as the ends of the short sleeves and some of her waist above her navel. It was a deceptive top, showing more skin than Kagome was accustomed to while also covering her completely. The back was completely sheer, exposing her toned muscles and lovely skin underneath the shimmering fabric. At the waistline, a thin silver belt held the dress close to her body. From there, a two-layered skirt flared nicely, almost like a peplum. The same floral accents were stitched into the layered baby blue tulle skirts, which ended just at her mid-thigh. Paired with silver heels and an understated sterling silver bracelet, the outfit complimented Kagome's budding feminine beauty perfectly. It wasn't childish, but not all grown up either. Her hair was styled in lovely, silken waves and makeup applied to draw attention to her dazzling eyes.
On either side of her, Ayame and Sango had been dressed to accent their looks as well. Sango was a rather simple girl when it came to dresses, and not wanting to outshine Kagome on her big day, opted for a champagne colored dress that glimmered with a gold-dusted look. It had a modest neckline that exposed her shoulders, but the sleeves extended down to her elbows. The skirt flared out prettily due to the many layers of tulle and swished prettily around her knees. Her hair had been braided in a fishtail design, looking carefree and flawless at the same time as it rested on her shoulder prettily. Ayame had fallen in love with one of the dresses Kagome had passed up on, finding that it's perfectly sculptured and structured look suited her well. It was a light blue dress, but there were swatches of pinks, purples, reds, and navy in the patterns of watercolor splashes. Its flared skirt, which folded in on itself in lose pleats, stopped just a few inches before her knees. Her auburn hair had been pulled back into a perfectly coiled messy bun, teased and accented with beautiful clips. All three were visions of feminine beauty. Izayoi had chosen a simple black dress, long sleeved and fitting for the mother of a teenager, but her own mature beauty was undeniable.
"Alright, let's see if the boys put up the decorations like I asked." Izayoi said with a mischievous tone and opened the door for Kagome to enter first. The house was dark and very quiet, catching her off guard initially.
"Why's it so dark?" She muttered to herself and began feeling for the wall to her right, knowing the light switches were there somewhere. However, someone's hand was already on them and flicked the switch without warning, triggering a reaction of people jumping out, all screaming 'Happy Birthday' to a very startled Kagome. Jumping backwards, her hands flew to her chest as she let out a shrill scream, and she knocked into the taller body of Izayoi. Everyone was cheering and laughing at the frightened girl, who finally broke out into peels of laughter of her own when she realized what had just happened. Izayoi wrapped her arms around Kagome's shoulders as the girl began to calm down, and couldn't refrain from giving her side a playful tickle.
From all around, the faces of everyone Kagome held dear came forward wanting to hug and kiss her. Tears pooled in her eyes and she couldn't stop from smiling. From the top of the stairs, the DJ stood behind his table and began playing exciting music that went in time with the colorful, transitioning lights placed around the party areas. People were already walking around with plates of delicious food, and from the living room it could be heard that a game of Just Dance had begun. Kagome couldn't believe the lengths her family had gone to make the day unforgettable. Still frozen in place by the front door, she couldn't decide on what she wanted to do first. Ayame and Sango were still at her side, telling her how they'd helped plan the evening with Izayoi, and then the three were joined by some of her closest friends.
"Happy Birthday, Kagome!" Miroku shouted over the music and pulled her into a tight hug. She patted the back of his shoulder and thanked him eagerly. As soon as they separated though, Kouga was pulling her into a one-armed side hug, his strong muscles nearly crushing her, and he brought his phone up to snap a quick picture of them. But, eventually they turned their attention to their ladies and Kagome slowly took a few steps away to let the couples have some privacy. She made her way towards the dining room, smiling and thanking people who spoke to her along the way, and nearly jumped with joy at the beautifully decorated room. There were quite a few people there already, milling around the food and admiring the table stacked with presents. There was a dull ache in the pit of Kagome's stomach that only got worse as she smelled air, thick with the scent of delicious food. Quickly making a small plate for herself, she was just turning back around when she collided with a hard body.
"Oh! Sorry!" He quickly mentioned and fumbled to keep Kagome's plate from falling. She looked up to see the familiar face of Houjo grinning down at her. He was dressed so handsomely, and his russet colored hair had been brushed back away from his freckled face. Blushing when she saw the appreciative look in his eyes, Kagome smiled and let him take her into a hug. "Happy Birthday, Kagome." He whispered into her hair, to which she nodded and leaned into him before they pulled back.
"I can't believe so many people showed up." She said in a breathless voice, still surprised so many people could fit inside the manor. Popping a few cherry tomatoes into her mouth, Kagome chewed happily as Houjo rebuffed the absurd observation.
"Kagome, everyone loves you. Even Madam came! We all want to share this day with you." Keeping an arm draped over her slender shoulders, Kagome and Houjo made their way back towards the living room to watch some of their friends attempt the dancing game. It was a rather blatant show of affection for them, far bolder than they had been before, and there were two sets of eyes that looked upon it with derision. Inuyasha hung back from Kagome, happy to watch her reaction and joy from afar. Kikyou was on his arm, of course, and had been fore-warned not to make her usual comments or draw attention to herself. His constant presence at her side and reluctance to approach Kagome seemed to sate her bad behavior. But as he caught a glimpse of Kagome and Houjo together, Inuyasha couldn't help but scoff when he saw the boy sneak a bit of food from her plate only to have her playfully swat at him. They were such a wholesome couple, perpetually stuck in a middle-school romance. Turning his attention back to Kikyou and the group of people they were currently talking to, Inuyasha did his best to keep his thoughts about Kagome to a minimum.
"And many mooooooore!" Miroku's goofy addition to the end of the birthday song had many people rolling their eyes and laughing, most because voice was reminiscent of a chipmunk due to the helium he'd inhaled. Sango smacked his stomach with the back of her hand gently, mumbling about his diminished brain cells, but she still had a smile on her lovely face. Kagome laughed softly as she stared at the tiered cake in front of her, blazing with sixteen candles and decorated beautifully. She needed only a few seconds to make her wish before blowing the flames out in one powerful breath. Lights came back on as smoke filtered through the room and the cake was taken back to the kitchen to be sliced and portioned onto individual plates. Kagome was seated in the middle of the dining room, and her guests were standing or sitting around her with eager and expectant looks on their faces. The table of gifts was pushed up closer to her for easy access.
"First, Kagome, you need to open your gift from us." Inu-Taisho interrupted before she could tear into one of the wrapped boxes. He stepped forward with Izayoi and handed her a small, unassuming box with a black ribbon tied around it. Kagome's nimble fingers quickly untied it and she smiled up at them.
"I thought my present was the spa and dress. You guys didn't have to get me anything more." She looked down and missed the warm looks exchanged by her parents as pulled back the lid. Everyone watched as she flipped it over into her open hand and out toppled a can of sunblock. Confused, she let out a short laugh and looked back up at her parents for an explanation.
"It's sunny in the South. Your mom and I thought you'd need proper skin protection while you're down there." His tone was playful, matching the smirk that tugged at the corner of his mouth. Kagome was still for only a moment before she shot up and wrapped her arms around both of their necks.
"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" She repeated excitedly. She would be allowed to attend the Houston Conference after all! After planting kisses on both Touga and Izayoi's cheeks, she turned back to everyone else and let out a throaty laugh. "I'm sorry, but I don't think anything's going to beat this gift. I'm going to the Houston Ballet Conference!" Laughter and some clapping could be heard from those who watched the excited teen take her seat again. She went back to opening her presents, thanking each individual person who gifted her with items ranging from DVDs to clothes. From Houjo, she'd received a pair of finely crafted and stylish cowgirl boots. Madam Chachka presented Kagome with three tickets to the upcoming ballet production and promised to introduce her to the director of the company. With all gifts open, everyone was left to enjoy the cake as the party began to wind down.
The music had resumed and some people were in the sitting room, using the empty space to dance freely. Kagome was leaned against the wall, her arms crossed and a reluctant smile tugging at her lips as Houjo stood in front of her. He was leaned in close, whispering something in her ear that brought a deep blush to her face. No one seemed to notice though, until the fast song that had been playing filtered out and was replaced by the familiar twang of a country song. No one recognized the tune or the voice, except for the young man who was gently pulling a reluctant young woman towards the center of the room. The deep voice of Billy Currington filled the manor and drew more to watch the heart-warming spectacle. His song 'Must Be Doing Something Right' had been Houjo and Kagome's song for a few years now, and in private they'd danced to it many times after he taught her the two-step. But at this moment, she couldn't hide the blush that covered her face as she finally gave in and allowed him to pull her against his body.
Izayoi held back tears as she leaned into her husband's frame. They both watched their daughter with looks of bittersweet acceptance. Everyone was quiet, though some were filming the scene on their phones, allowing the two to have their precious moment together without disruption. Inu-Taisho wasn't pleased with how Houjo placed his hand at the small of her back, his fingers resting over the swell of her lower spine, but he held back from interrupting them. Even he knew that this was a special moment for his little girl, who'd become an adult in an instant. His desire to keep her as that small child he'd caught dancing to a music box was great in that moment. She was their final child, and it felt unfair to see her growing up so quickly. She'd one day get married, and he'd be the one to give her away; but, until that day came, he still considered her his little girl. The conflicted father took his wife's hand and brought it up to his face to give the delicate fingers an affectionate kiss.
Kagome's cheek was pressed to the taller boy's broad shoulder as she appeared to be caught up in a dream. Her eyes had fallen shut, dark lashes fanning out prettily, and a peaceful smile curled at her pink lips. Ever since their first meeting at the academy, Kagome and Houjo had been each other's partner in every dance they were in. Their chemistry on stage was undeniable, but many times she had shut out her emotions during the performance in order to execute it perfectly. However, at this moment, all she felt was a rush of excitement and comfort as they shared her first slow dance in public. Her arm was draped over his shoulder, resting behind his neck gently. Her other hand was being held in the palm of his, tenderly resting against his chest. Effortlessly, they moved in time with the music using the footwork he'd taught her over a year ago. It wasn't surprising that two such accomplished dancers had no difficulty with the simple choreography. It came so naturally to Houjo that he could be seen whispering the intimate lyrics into Kagome's ear with a peaceful look on his face.
As the music swelled, he spun her out in a graceful arc, their natural abilities making it possible for the spontaneous act to appear planned. Houjo lifted their joined hands higher into the air, allowing Kagome to twirl underneath the bridge of their arms. She did the same for him before they met back in the middle, in the same intimate position as before. As the song began to come to an end, everyone assumed so would their dancing. But, Houjo surprised all when he suddenly dipped Kagome, his strong legs and arms keeping the motion fluid and her body secure as she laughed due to the unexpected act. They locked eyes as she held onto his neck tightly, her expression curious and flushed with emotions. Many in the room waited with bated breath for a kiss to occur; but not all shared this anticipation. Smartly, though, Houjo just pulled her back up and bowed before Kagome. With her hand still in his, he gave her knuckles a tender brushing with his lips.
They were surrounded by applause, forcing Kagome to hide her bashful face in her hand as Houjo lead her away to cool down. She noticed some girls chastising their boyfriends for the lack of similar romantic gestures, and couldn't help but thank her lucky stars for such an upstanding partner. He really had been the perfect introduction into the world of romance and relationships, and had set a high standard for anyone to follow.
"Okay everyone. Get settled while I set this up." Izayoi's voice spoke over the idle chit-chat going on in the living room. The party had come to an end, leaving just a handful of close friends behind to share in the final moments of Kagome's birthday. Situated around the living room were Kagome, Houjo, Sango, and Ayame in the biggest couch. Inuyasha was in the adjacent leather chair, Kikyou perched on the side with her arm over his shoulder. Miroku and Kouga stood behind the couch near their girlfriends. Madam Chachka was sitting in a chair brought from the kitchen at Kagome's other side, while Inu-Taisho stood behind his daughter. His proud and tall form was intimidating to the younger men at his side, who were on their best behavior now. Izayoi was by the large TV, a remote in her hand as she inserted a blank disk into the DVD player. In the next moment, the screen lit up with a family picture of the Inu-Taisho clan. The word 'play' blinked every few seconds, and Kagome already knew what was about to happen.
"I can't believe you did this, mom." Kagome's tone was playful, despite the rising blush on her cheeks. Inuyasha glanced over at her with an unclear expression, but everyone looked back ahead when Izayoi spoke up again.
"My husband and I have taken the liberty of putting together a timeline of pictures and movies since Kagome's been part of our family." She smiled proudly and clicked the play button, which caused the TV to go blank before a song began playing. It was Paul Simon's, 'Father and Daughter', a song Inu-Taisho and Kagome held very dear between them. Before the first picture could appear, the sixteen-year-old tipped her head back to smiled up at her father, who in turn put his hand over her shoulder and gave it a squeeze. "This is the first picture I ever took of Kagome." Izayoi dictated as an image of six-year-old Kagome came into view. She was in a witch's costume, smiling from her wheel chair, despite the ever-present oxygen mask and IVs in her frail arm. Her matted hair was hidden by the large hat atop her head, but what couldn't be concealed was the nearly emaciated state of her body. For many, this was their first time seeing images of Kagome's former self, and for the rest it was a stark reminder that brought up mixed feelings.
"It was our very first Halloween. I remember pushing you down the hallway as the doctors and nurse handed out candy." Izayoi's voice was sweet and nostalgic as the image transitioned into one that showed Kagome laying in her bedroom, smiling despite her sickly appearance. "This was a few days after we brought you home, Kagome. You were still so sick, but no matter what you kept smiling." Kagome had a strange look on her face and she leaned in towards Houjo, resting her cheek against his shoulder. She hadn't seen these pictures of herself in years. The next few were better though. They were snapshots of when her hair had finally been cut. Some were of her and Izayoi playing games, making cookies, or playing outside. with each image, Izayoi explained the memory to everyone there, taking them all through a trip of memory lane. She came to a few pictures from the Christmas Banquette they'd attended all those years ago. Kagome looked over at Ayame and Sango and stuck her tongue out playfully, as it had been the occasion they'd all met. And then it went on to show moments at Inuyasha's party, and times beyond that. Many were of her hanging around Sesshoumaru or bickering with Inuyasha. There was the time the family went fishing, first days of school, holidays, vacations; each image painted a picture of a wonderful life, of a family coming together and welcoming someone new into their lives. Pictures of their trip to Japan brought sweet memories to everyone and Kagome couldn't stop from glancing at Inuyasha, but he didn't seem to notice.
A video began to play, it was one of Kagome's best performances when she was thirteen or fourteen. Madam Chachka gave an excited laugh and patted the girls arm, mentioning that it was this performance that proved Kagome was meant to dance. Houjo squeezed Kagome's hand when she became bashful. With only a few images left, Izayoi smiled and looked back at the TV.
"Kagome took this when she spent the day with Touga at the office." It was a series of images depicting fourteen-year-old Kagome occupying herself while Touga worked at his desk in the background. She was obviously bored out of her mind and found entertainment in taking silly pictures, every once in a while cajoling her father into smiling for the camera. Inu-Taisho smiled at those pictures and of the memories they brought back. Eventually the images ran out and the TV went blank again as it returned to the main menu. Izayoi wiped away a few tears as she turned the devices off and everyone prepared to stand and say their goodbyes. It was nearing one in the morning and they all were exhausted. But, as Kagome stood up from the couch, she had a rush of desire to say something. Before the motivation left her, she cleared her throat and caught everyone's attention.
"I wanted to say something…" Beginning nervously, with her hands wringing behind her back, Kagome took a moment to look at everyone in the room and smiled. "All of the people in this room are the most important in my life. I feel very blessed and lucky to have been given the chance to be part of your lives. My parents are the most generous and kind people I know, and accepted me and loved me despite not being related. All of my friends, Sango, Ayame, Houjo, Kouga, Miroku, Inuyasha…and Kikyou; you've all become very dear to me. I couldn't imagine not having you guys in my life. My teacher, Madam, you've pushed harder than anyone else for me to be my very best and I'm so thankful. I don't remember much before being in the hospital, but I know I never thought about having such a great life. So, I wanted to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart."
Her face was beat-red, and no one knew quite what to say in response of it. Thankfully, Ayame broke the ice and latched herself onto Kagome's back as she hugged the smaller girl.
"Aw! Kagome you're so sweet! I just can't get over it!" Her exuberance was contagious and everyone began to laugh, including one very sheepish girl. One by one, her friends left to go home. She stood at the door watching them walk down the street to their individual cars. Behind her, Inu-Taisho came up to give his daughter an affectionate kiss to the back of her head before he and Izayoi retired upstairs. Shutting the door, Kagome had just locked it when she heard movement coming from the living room. She turned back to see Inuyasha coming out, looking rather subdued for some reason. Pulling a tired smile, Kagome shut off the lights to the first floor and began walking up the flight of stairs beside him.
"I heard you helped put the party together. It looked really nice. Thanks." She tried to fill the silence, but he didn't seem interested in reciprocating. They were both at the landing now and heading to their rooms when she heard him speak up finally.
"Wait." Was all he told her before disappearing into his room. Had she heard him correctly? Kagome took a few steps towards his open door and watched as he appeared before her again, an envelope tucked in his hand. It was too small for a card, so what could be held inside? "I always meant to give these back to you. I just kept forgetting or it wasn't the right time. Here." He held the white envelope out to Kagome and she took it from him. It felt as if it was empty! Was he playing a prank? As Kagome's fingers handled the paper, she glanced up at Inuyasha with a suspicious eye before looking back down at the strange gift. What she saw made her heart skip a beat.
"You kept them? Are these really the ones?" She whispered unbelievingly. Inside the envelope were three quarters, unassuming and yet very significant. Looking back up at him, she saw a strange mix of emotions on Inuyasha's face. "Are you okay, Inuyasha?" She asked worriedly. He nodded quickly, dismissing her concern, and let out a quick breath.
"Yeah, I'm fine. Did you…Did you mean that stuff down there? That you couldn't imagine not having me in your life?" Something in his voice told Kagome that he had quite a bit of inner-turmoil going on.
"Yes Inuyasha, I meant it. You're one of my best friends…maybe even the most important." She could feel her heart racing and the blood rushing to her ears. Why was he acting this way so suddenly? And with those words, why was she getting so anxious? Kagome felt her palms get sweaty and her mouth went dry. It seemed that her words had a similar effect on him by the way he bit his lip and ran a nervous hand through his bangs.
"I was so mean to you, Kagome. I treated you so badly. Even when we were growing up, I did all those things. If it was anyone else, they'd hate me. Why don't you?" His voice wavered a bit, and he wouldn't look her in the eye, but the older boy was trying desperately to bridge the gap. Kagome felt her stomach turn nervously and she had the strange urge to hug Inuyasha. Was she just riding on some crazy, spontaneous high? How would he react if she put her arms around him? The seconds were ticking without a response and it was making Inuyasha more and more anxious. He finally looked up and locked his gaze with her own blue one.
"I-I don't know why, Inuyasha. I don't think there was a specific day that I decided to stop hating you. It was slow…even before Japan, I felt differently about you." Kagome felt stuck there in his intense stare. Those eyes, the ones that caused such a storm of emotions each time she looked into them, told her that he needed to hear more. He needed to be assured she no longer resented him. "The boy that took these quarters from me isn't the one who I've grown to…know." She almost slipped up and said 'loved'. It was the wrong word to describe her feelings towards Inuyasha; wasn't it? "You are such an amazing person, Inuyasha; you don't let everyone see it, and sometimes you don't mean for anyone to see it. But I know how brave and talented and kind you are. Since we were kids, you've been saving me over and over again. I could never hate you, Inuyasha. So, if you're holding onto the idea that I hate you, please let it go."
Throwing caution to the wind, Kagome took the half-step between them and lifted her arms to hug Inuyasha's neck. He was taken back, and remained frozen as he internalized all the things she'd said, and that she was currently hugging him. Her chin came to rest on his shoulder and she shut her eyes, fearing this had been a grievous miscalculation. Then, she felt his arms shift and a pressure circling her waist. It was hesitant at first, but eventually it became a tight and unwavering embrace that stirred up a flurry of emotions for the both of them.
"I couldn't imagine my life without you either, Kagome." He spoke softly, unfamiliar with such a raw display of his feelings. Strangely, it wasn't as scary with her as it had been with his father. He felt secure in her arms, which was disconcerting because it was how he felt when he first began dating Kikyou; that sense of safety and belonging that only came with a romantic kind of relationship. Breathing in her sweet smell, Inuyasha gave her slight form one final tight hug before he withdrew his arms from around her. His hands almost stayed at her waist, but he closed them tightly at his sides. Kagome pulled back as well, her hands roaming down the expanse of his shoulders, the envelope still held between her thumb and palm. There was an easy smile curling at her lips, revealing her dimples, and it infected Inuyasha with a smile of his own. They shared a laugh to lighten the mood.
"Goodnight, Inuyasha." She took a step towards her bedroom, body pivoting away from him though her gaze didn't waiver. Inuyasha nodded thoughtfully and stepped back into his room, seemingly reluctant to look away as well.
"Goodnight, Kagome." Though it felt wrong, both of them broke away from each other's stare and retreated into their rooms. Inuyasha's door shut first, then Kagome's. Suddenly at a loss for air, Kagome pressed her back against the smooth plain of her door and tipped her head back, breathing through parted lips as her hand held the envelope against her chest. What was that about? Why was she having such intense feelings? Similarly, Inuyasha had sunk to the floor, his back against his own door as he propped his elbows atop bent knees. Strong hands hid his face, but nothing could keep the images and thoughts of Kagome out of Inuyasha's mind.
"Doesn't it feel nice outside? I think it's because there's no clouds to block out the sun." Kagome was seated on a white painted bench, overlooking grassy field where other figures could be seen meandering around. To her side, a slender woman sat with her back straight and chin held high. Her tired eyes were shut, but the expression on her face was one of calm serenity. This was the first time in months Kimi had been granted outside privileges. Her good behavior had been rewarded, though one of the orderlies needed to remain within a certain vicinity as a safety precaution.
"Where is Sesshoumaru? Where is my son?" Her haggard voice sounded so lost. The years of his absence had taken their toll on the poor woman. She may not be all together there, but on her lucid days she knew it'd been far too long since his last visit. Kagome sighed and gently laid her hand over Kimi's, offering gentle support. She then thought of the only thing that had a chance of putting a smile on the broken woman's face.
"Hey, miss Kimi, I have something to show you. Sesshoumaru sent it to me yesterday for my birthday." This caught Kimi's curiosity and she watched through the corner of her eye as Kagome pulled out her phone. The video was quickly pulled up and Kagome handed the phone to Kimi, allowing her to handle it on her own. There was a certain level of trust the two women shared that came in second only to Kimi and Sesshoumaru. As his video played, and Kimi heard her son's voice, tears fell freely. Ashen fingers traced the phones surface delicately, trying to touch him through the it, but she kept unintentionally pausing and playing the video. Kagome could see Kimi growing frustrated and gingerly took the phone back so she could hold it for her. "It's ok, miss Kimi." She drew the crying woman into her side, wrapping an arm around her shoulders, and held up the phone as the video played.
"He is so handsome." Kimi whimpered pitifully as she rested her head against Kagome's chest. The younger woman rubbed soothing circles into her back.
"he is the most handsome. You made such a beautiful son, miss Kimi." Reassuring the woman in the most effective way, Kagome stayed with her for almost another hour before they had to go back inside. She walked Kimi back to her room, gave the woman a parting hug, and promised to return the following Sunday. It was like this every week, some were good visits and others weren't, but it was Kagome's duty and promise to Sesshoumaru. Kimi's heart wrenching wails could be heard down the corridor, spurring Kagome's legs to carry her faster away from them. How had Sesshoumaru done this on his own for so long?
Two men stood in a single doorway, neither planning on crossing the thresh into the room they looked into. It was not a place one entered if one could help it; unfortunately for those currently inside, they had no say in the matter. It was little more than a dungeon, in the most basic sense. The walls, floor, and ceiling were made of polished cement; cold and easy to clean. There was no paint to brighten the atmosphere, no carpet or insulation to keep warm, or even a fan to offer a cool respite during the summer months. Only a bare lightbulb hung from the ceiling, offering light so long as it suited the person in control of the switch outside. Bathroom access was limited to their time allowed outside of the room. Once the door was shut at two in the morning, it was not to be opened again until noon. Should someone need to relieve their bodies or become sick, it'd have to wait or they'd have to find the emptiest corner and suffer the stench. Scattering the floor were twelve cots, old and metal and barely long enough to allow someone to stretch out completely. A thin, worn mat served as a cushion against the rusted springs, and blankets bought from second-hand stores were used against the cold nights.
There was only five women inside the room now, seven had been terminated in the recent months for various reasons. But, as Naraku and Charlie gazed upon their remaining stock, they were no longer impressed. Strung out on Naraku's addictive drug, they were all lost in their own delirious worlds. None had the strength or awareness to attempt an escape, not when that meant they'd have to go without their precious drug to keep them feeling so euphoric. However, once they became too complacent and addicted to put effort in their job, Naraku lost all reason to keep them around.
"Whadaya think?" Charlie asked around his fat cigar, taking a long drag before exhaling the acrid smoke through his nostrils. Naraku regarded the women with an apathetic look and shrugged.
"I honestly see no point in keeping these ones. Clean house and get the room ready for more. I can have new girls here by the middle of this week. She'll train em' up and debut them Friday." As easily as he said those words, the fates of five more women were sealed. Charlie knew what it meant to 'clean house'. He had the responsibility of organizing the hired muscle and guns to break the women's necks, disfigure them beyond recognition or identification, and disposing of the bodies discreetly. This was a yearly routine they had, and any trepidation Charlie once had about it was gone now. He nodded quietly, signaling his understanding and acceptance of orders, and Naraku turned to leave. Like riding a bike, it would take little effort to reach out to sordid contacts in order to procure another twelve girls; beginning the cycle all over again.