A/N: THIS IS IT YA'LL! *inserts gif of Michael Scott from The Office screaming about a fire* IT'S HAPPENING! STAY CALM! IT'S KAGOME AND INUYASHA'S BIG REUNION! I'm talking like seriously it is finally happening! SEX IS GONNA BE AT THE END! BE WARNED! LEMON AT THE END OF THIS CHAPTER! I'M SO EXCITED! *shrieks happily*
ALSO! I NEED YOU TO DO THIS! There are TWO songs for this chapter that are SUPER important to hear cuz they so AMAZINGLY explain what's going on. The first is Snow Patrol's 'Open Your Eyes'. If anyone can guess where I got the idea to use this song, I'll give you a sneak spoiler about what's gonna happen with Kikyou if you wanna know. Mwahahaha. THE OTHER SONG! Is a cover of 'The Story' by Wikus Botma. LITERALLY his voice is Inuyasha's. UNF so amazing. And that is the other song he'll be singing towards the end of the story. SO PLEASE HUMOR ME AND LISTEN TO THESE AMAZING SONGS.
WE ARE LIKE TWO OR THREE CHAPTERS AWAY FROM THE END OF THE STORY.
Disclaimer: I own nothing.
Chapter forty-nine: Open Your Eyes
"How was that?" Inuyasha asked as he sat back on a wooden stool, one leg propped up slightly to support the guitar in front of him. He leaned away from the round pop-filter that hovered before the microphone, protecting the recording quality as he sang. The twenty-two-year-old was sitting in the Vocal ISO room of a recording studio. Owned by the music label that had recently hired him, Inuyasha had been spending much of his time there for the past couple of months. Behind the glass window that separated him from the control room, Inuyasha saw the sound mixer and producer nodding and giving the thumbs up. The producer pressed a button that allowed him to speak to Inuyasha through an intercom system, smiling excitedly.
"That was great! Best run-through yet. I think that's the one we'll use for the CD. Good job, Inuyasha." They had been working hard for nearly five hours now, putting together a compilation of Inuyasha's best original and cover songs for a special release album. His solo tour was only a week away, and venues had already been sold out months in advance. Inuyasha would be traveling across thirty states and thirty cities, performing for the masses who were clamoring over themselves to see him in person. The final performance of his tour would be in New York City, where his career had begun. The whole ordeal would take three months, the longest he'd been out on his own so far.
Considering the short amount of time Inuyasha had been pursuing music as a career, his level of popularity and demand was quite surprising. His first single EP had already attained platinum status, and now there were two new originals that had been recorded to surprise audiences with during the tour. It seemed to be the perfect storm; a combination of specific attributes and circumstances that made his quick rise to fame so possible. Inuyasha was undeniably good looking, set apart from other's in his genre and age group by the striking genetic traits passed down from his father. His voice was a powerhouse of versatility, able to maintain perfect pitch and clarity while also having an edgy roughness to it at the same time. Inuyasha was a highly skilled guitarist, having been self-taught and still learning from other masters more talented than himself. And now, he was beginning piano lessons to add to his repertoire. All of that paired with a magnetic, bad-boy image created an idol that crowds were compelled to pay attention to.
"Alright, I gotta go." Inuyasha announced as he stood up to return the guitar back to its case. Slinging it over his healed shoulder, which only pained him every once in a while, Inuyasha bade his producer goodbye before heading towards the front lobby. The receptionist, a young intern looking to get her start in the business as well, was watching Shippou as she manned the phones. The youngster was playing some game on Inuyasha's phone when the twenty-two-year-old came into the room, but didn't even look up when his name was called. "Shippou, come on." Inuyasha gave the boy's shoulder a nudge as he passed him, then waved goodbye to the receptionist.
It was March, and Kagome had been gone nine months now. Whoever said that absence made the heart grow fonder could kiss Inuyasha's ass; he was pissed. This was the longest he'd gone as a single adult, and temptation surrounded him at every corner. Living the life of a rockstar was something he'd always wanted, but it was difficult going to parties and concerts alone. And on top of that, he had to keep women at a distance to prevent himself from acting spontaneously on a lustful whim. Countless times he'd been approached by a beautiful girl who was looking to latch herself onto someone like him; willing to do anything to gain his coveted attention. Every time Inuyasha found himself admiring a woman, or flirting with her over a drink, he had to willfully remind himself to back off before it went too far. After months of sacrifice and celibacy, Inuyasha was beginning to lose faith that Kagome even wanted to come back to him; not that he could blame her.
Kagome was finally living her dream. At least, that's what he heard from his mother and friends when they shared what Kagome told them. She was galivanting across the country, now part of the Houston Ballet Company as a full-time dancer, and seemed perfectly fine without him. His family had been invited a few times to meet her in a certain city to watch her perform. Even Shippou spent his school breaks with her! Everyone was getting the chance to see Kagome and were coming back with stories of how happy she was and what a turnaround she had made; everyone except for Inuyasha. She rarely reached out to him, and her responses to his calls and texts were sporadic at best. Part of him wanted to lash out at her for such neglectful treatment by grabbing the first girl who smiled at him and taking her to a hotel. Then, the more mature part of him remembered that it was all a test that he promised to uphold until she returned. But, was it still worth it?
"Inuyasha, can I go with you on your tour?" Shippou asked hopefully as he sat in the backseat of Inuyasha's car. He had done quite a bit of growing up as well, having been nurtured and cared for by those who now considered him part of the family. For the first few months, Shippou had been given a similar treatment to when Kagome initially came into the Taisho family. He was given private tutors, intensive counseling, and a structured schedule to provide the needed security that any child thrived on. There was much to undo from his time on the streets, and especially from his year spent under Naraku's control. What made it worse was Kagome's absence, though she was very responsible in calling him to stay in touch.
Now eleven-years-old, Shippou had finally caught up with his age-group in school and was showing an interest in music. He wanted to follow in the footsteps of the man who had taken the role of his primary caregiver. Inuyasha had truly stepped up in Kagome's absence, forming a relationship with the boy that began as a mutual desire to have her back in both of their lives. It was Inuyasha that made Shippou's breakfasts' and lunches, tucked him in at night, and made sure he was doing his homework. Those who knew him best had never seen Inuyasha in such a mature, fatherly role before; but it seemed to be working wonders on his notorious hot-temper and spoiled tendencies.
"Sorry, no can do. I'll be gone for three months and you can't miss that much school. Besides, next week is Spring Break and you'll be flying out to see Kagome. I'll be gone by the time you get back." Inuyasha glanced at Shippou through the rearview mirror. They were stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, such was life in New York City.
"I wish she'd come back already…for good." The disappointed kid folded his arms as he looked outside, missing the woman who was so near and dear to his heart. Inuyasha smiled ruefully as he finally moved forward along the busy street.
"Same." He muttered softly. A few minutes passed before Shippou found something else to ask of Inuyasha; something that he was never denied.
"Tell me another story about her. Something funny." Shippou watched Inuyasha perk up and grin devilishly; he always did love sharing stories about Kagome. Shippou wasn't obtuse or naïve. He knew what sort of feelings the older man had for Kagome. Whenever Inuyasha seemed sad, or like he was missing her, Shippou always requested a story about Kagome that would also remind Inuyasha just what he was waiting for.
"Something funny? Uuuuuh…Oh! Okay so I was fourteen, so that made Kagome twelve. We were going to Japan and she had never been on a plane before. You know how they tell you to turn off electronic stuff?" Inuyasha glanced back at Shippou, who nodded his head and leaned forward with deep interest in the story. He loved discovering more and more about the people who he regarded as his mother and father. "So, Kagome didn't know about that and she asked me why they make you turn it off. I was just kidding, but I told her that the engines shut down if electronics are left on and that the plane would crash." Inuyasha suddenly stopped the tale as he began laughing at the memory, unable to forget the comical reaction Kagome had.
"Then what?" Shippou urged curiously, wanting to join in the laughter. Inuyasha bit his bottom lip to force himself to stop chuckling.
"She starts crying because I didn't want to turn off whatever electronic thing I was holding and she tries to get it out of my hands. She was so gullible back then…it was kinda cute. But because she started to cry, Sesshoumaru jumped down my throat and ruined the joke." The story came to an end as Inuyasha was filled with sweet nostalgia. How things had changed since his childhood. A smile lingered on his face, which didn't go unnoticed by Shippou, who felt rather proud of himself. Inuyasha was truly and irrevocably in love with Kagome; he just needed a small nudge to remember why sometimes.
Training had begun immediately; and it was just as strict and demanding as when she had been a student under Madam Chachka. Kagome joined Houjo and Amber at the prestigious Houston Ballet Company, welcomed by instructors and directors who remembered her from the Summer Camp held years ago. Starting from scratch, Kagome had to begin with the basics before she could attain the level of mastery and ease that had once come so naturally to her. Thankfully, it was as if her muscles remembered it all, and she need only to knock the rust off before regaining what had been lying dormant. Each evening, Kagome returned to Houjo and Amber's home feeling more sore and worn out than ever before, but it was a satisfying ache that meant her body was building its strength and muscles.
After three months of rigorous training, drills, and studying, Kagome attended the open auditions for the Company's upcoming Ballet; Giselle. She felt the familiar buildup of nerves and excitement that had always motivated her to do better, and Kagome managed to secure a small role in the performance. Amber, of course, landed the lead role of Giselle, as she was still the most advanced and proficient dancer within the Company. While Kagome was happy for her new friend, part of her refused to accept coming in second. She remembered a time when her name was synonymous with perfection and success; would Madam Chachka accept anything less than the leading role for Kagome? Never!
As she continued to push herself to rise through the ranks of other dancers, Kagome made sure to take the time to enjoy her newfound freedom as well. If there was one thing she took away from her stay at The Clearing, it was that life needed to be in balance for her to feel satisfied. Hard work needed to be rewarded with relaxation and enjoyment. Every experience had value, a lesson to be learned that only added to the depths of one's inner-peace. Kagome often found time to hit the open road in search of new and exciting sights or experiences. Once outside of the bustling city, it was easy to find a dirt road that led to nowhere; often landing her in places forgotten by time and others. Her eyes always on the horizon in search of something, even if that something was unclear and confusing.
There was a restlessness inside Kagome, something that prevented her from feeling at home or like she was meant to stay in one place for very long. She was never content to sit at home and waste time watching TV or lounging about; unlike Houjo and Amber. The two were either at home or the ballet company. On the weekends, they'd sometimes go on a day trip to Galveston or Lake Conroe for a bit of water fun; but even then, they did everything at a slower pace than Kagome preferred.
Eventually, Kagome began heading out into the great unknown on her own, meeting new people and seeing things she never could imagine. One of the most important adventures she took was to a clinic that specialized in laser tattoo removal; and she gladly endured the painful sessions until the mark on her shoulder was a faded memory. The scars from her time as a captive had become considerably less pronounced and raised on her skin, to the point that no one seemed to notice them at all. And now, whenever Kagome found herself looking at her reflection, her eyes no longer gravitated to the old wounds.
Natural talent and a predisposition for excellence made Kagome a key figure within the Houston Ballet Company in a short amount of time. Around the sixth month of her being there, Kagome began traveling with the Company to perform in other cities and states. Each new place that Kagome found herself in, she made sure to send a postcard home to the family. It was like a catalogue of her adventures, snapshots into the life she had always wanted and was finally living. Once or twice, they even flew out to see her perform, cheering and glowing with pride over her triumphant return.
Nothing could surpass the joy that Kagome felt when Shippou was able to come and spend time with her. So far, he'd only spent two weeks out of his winter break with her, and in a short amount of time, he'd stay during the week of Spring Break in Houston as well. They spoke nearly every day on the phone, maintaining the bond that had been built almost two years ago; it'd take more than distance to drive them apart.
There were times, however, that Kagome was forced to slow down and take a moment to reflect. It was usually at night, when she was left alone with Houjo and Amber during dinner or as they watched TV, that she noticed a particular ache in her chest. Apart from her parents, Kagome had never seen a pair more in love than her two hosts; they radiated the emotion as if physical embodiments of it. Their natural chemistry with one another was what allowed them to have such an honest and transparent relationship. Houjo was always finding excuses to be near her, to touch her, or to make her smile. And Amber lived to hear his laughter and feel his strong hands on her. They existed as one being, and danced that way as well.
Had Kagome arrived in Houston as her prior bitter and irritable self, she would have mocked the couple and denounced what they had as shallow infatuation. But now that she had found clarity and released those negative thoughts, it was plain-as-day to see that this was a couple meant for one another. As Kagome lay awake at night, lost in her own mind and slight jealousy of such a bond, her mind always seemed to settle on thoughts of Inuyasha.
There was a time that they had been truly happy. Even if it hadn't lasted very long, the briefness of that period didn't diminish what they had shared during it. Memories of sneaking into each other's rooms brought a sheepish smile to her face, and Kagome shut her eyes to the dark room. Instead, she tried to remember what it felt like to lay next to Inuyasha, and to spend hours cracking jokes and making each other laugh in ways no one else could. Kagome missed seeing the look in Inuyasha's eyes when he used to watch her dance. She longed to listen to him practicing new songs, sharing them with only her before revealing them to the rest of the world.
One surprising remembrance caused a blush to warm Kagome's pale cheeks; the first time she and Inuyasha had been together was one of her most precious memories. They only had sex a few times, but each time had been amazing and transformative in Kagome's development as a woman. Her left hand came up to gently caress the soft skin of her right arm. In the total darkness, with her imagination running wild, Kagome allowed herself to think it was Inuyasha's gentle touch on her.
"Inuyasha…are you still waiting?" She asked out loud, wishing for a definitive answer that could settle her doubts and anxieties. It seemed that she'd have to take a leap of faith and trust he would keep his word. Kagome was approaching the precipice of being ready to go back.
It was June, one of the hottest month of the Texas calendar, and Kagome was in search of something very important. Currently, she was sitting on the floor of Houjo and Amber's guest bedroom, the room in which she had been living in for the past eleven months. It was a Wednesday, and the air outside was particularly sweltering and there wasn't a cloud for miles. It had been decided earlier that this was the perfect day to go swimming, because there were only a few days left before the streets became over-run by children released for their Summer breaks.
Kagome was already dressed in a bright yellow bikini, an over-sized t-shirt protecting her modesty until it was time to take it off poolside. Her black hair, which had grown long enough to reach her chest, was collected in a tight coiled bun. There was no sense in letting it be totally damaged by the chlorinated waters of the public pool. Houjo and Amber were waiting for her in the living room, each dressed and ready to go as well. If only Kagome could find her damned waterproof cellphone case!
"Just a minute guys!" She hollered into the open hallway, rushing to the closet as a last-ditch effort to find the elusive item. Kagome tugged suitcases and bags down from the top shelf, crying out as an avalanche nearly buried her under the bulky objects. Groaning softly, Kagome pushed the larger suitcases away as if they had deeply offended her by merely existing. Sitting in her lap, Kagome noticed a familiar bag had fallen as well. It was the trusted carry-on bag that always accompanied her on any flight. There wasn't much of a change that the case was inside it, but Kagome had run out of places to look. As Kagome thumbed through the random assortment of objects inside, her hand felt a hard, fat surface at the very bottom. With a confused expression, Kagome pulled the item out to inspect it.
"Oh," It was the long-forgotten mystery CD that Inuyasha snuck into the bag before her flight to Seattle. She had been so quick to reject it before, and guilt quickly filled Kagome for such a cruel dismissal of his thoughtful gesture. Amber's laptop was resting on the desk at the other end of the room, having been used the previous night to answer emails and watch silly internet videos. Kagome chewed on her bottom lip anxiously, feeling very much like Pandora as she battled the decision to open a certain box. "Fuck it."
Kagome was no longer afraid; what was there to be afraid of? As she crossed the room, time seemed to slow down as she truly pondered the question. Actually, there were a plethora of things to fear; he could have gotten tired and moved on, decided she wasn't worth waiting for after a year of distant behavior, or still see her as a victim and not a person. Kagome was sitting in front of the laptop now, CD poised in front of the designated slot, but something made Kagome hesitate. What if she was the one who messed up? What if she pushed him too far? Asked too much from him?
With a shaky hand, Kagome pushed the CD into the laptop and waited for a music program to open. Sure enough, the media player popped up on the screen and there was a single track waiting to be listened to. It was untitled, offering no clues as to what message awaited her. Kagome sucked in a quick breath as she placed the cursor over the track and double-clicked. As the repetitive strum of a guitar met her ears, Kagome shut her eyes tightly and felt her stomach knot anxiously. It was an unfamiliar song, one she quickly understood to be an original of his, and so she waited for the words to begin.
"All this feels strange and untrue and I won't waste a minute..without you." Kagome was suddenly struck with the realization of how much she missed hearing Inuyasha sing; especially when he meant it for only her to hear. As her eyes remained shut, the nerves began to melt away. Kagome could see Inuyasha sitting on a stage, just him and his beat-up guitar with only her in the audience.
"My bones ache..my skin feels cold..and I'm getting so tired and so old. The anger swells in my guts..and I won't feel these slices and cuts. I want so much to open your eyes..cuz I need you to look into mine. Tell me that you'll open your eyes." His beautifully sung words took Kagome's breath away as she put a hand to her chest. It'd been nearly six months since the last time she cried, and it felt as if all that progress was being undone by this one song. Kagome could hear the sadness and love in his pleading voice as he repeated that final lyric; begging her to look at him again.
"Get up, get out, get away from these liars..cuz they don't get your soul..or your fire. Take my hand knot your fingers through mine..and we'll walk from this dark room for the last time. Every minute from this minute now..we can do what we like anywhere. I want so much to open your eyes..cuz I need you look into mine. Tell me that you'll open your eyes." As he again repeated that last line, only growing more impassioned and desperate, Kagome broke down into full-on sobs. Leaning forward, she propped her bent elbow against the desk and covered her eyes with her palm. He had felt this way almost a year ago…so how could he feel about her now? Kagome was both overjoyed by the beautiful song, and destroyed by the fear that she'd waited too long. The song began to wind down after a flurry of intense and skillful guitar playing.
"All this feels strange and untrue and I won't waste a minute..without you." As the final lyric faded with the music, Kagome was left listening only to the sounds of her own crying. From the doorway, Houjo and Amber watched with concerned looks. They had caught the tail end of the song, and though they didn't know the significance of it, it was clear to see what kind of impact it had on Kagome.
"Hun, you okay?" Amber startled Kagome with the question. The crying girl quickly tried to dispel her tears and gather her senses; which suddenly felt more clear and focused than they had ever been before. She knew what had to be done and that no more time could be wasted with indecision.
"I'm fine…I just think it's time for me to go home." It was the first time she openly stated her desire to return to New York, and Houjo smiled warmly at it. Kagome was finally ready; his job was done. The two watched as Kagome began looking up airline prices. There would be no trip to the pool that day.
Kagome didn't sleep for the next two days; she had far too much to accomplish before her flight left. First things first, after booking the most direct route to New York, Kagome called her mother. The family was ecstatic to hear that Kagome would be returning so soon, and explained that Inuyasha was scheduled to come back from his tour the day after her plane landed. That gave Kagome one day to prepare for her moment with Inuyasha. Of course, she was excited about being with her entire family again, but the desire to see Inuyasha outweighed that. She asked that everyone keep her homecoming a secret from Inuyasha, as she didn't want anything to happen that could throw a hitch in her plan.
After finalizing the plans with her parents, Kagome contacted the woman who had been just as important and influential throughout her life; Madam Chachka. It was as if no time had passed since their last conversation, and Kagome was welcomed with open arms to take up a full-time teaching position at the academy. Even if all of this was very 'spur-of-the-moment', Kagome would be damned if there wasn't some sort of job waiting upon her return.
At the behest of the Director she currently worked under, Kagome also reached out to the Director of the New York Ballet Company. They had met once, but only in passing at a competition, and Kagome highly doubted that he'd even remember her. Still, there was the off chance that she could be invited to audition and join the company there. With her future secured, Kagome made a quick job of packing her belongings. There wasn't much, as most of the clothes she had been wearing were loaned by Amber.
The evening of her last day in Houston was spent saying proper goodbyes to recently made friends, and to give her heartfelt thanks to Houjo and Amber. They trio enjoyed a pizza and bottle of wine under a blanket of stars that night; laughing and crying until night turn to early morning. Both Houjo and Amber had played a part in shaping who she had grown to become, and for that Kagome would be eternally grateful. With final hugs and kisses at the airport, Kagome left with the promise of coming back for their wedding.
Everything was happening so fast; like a whirlwind adventure that relied on the spontaneity of the moment rather than careful planning. She could be completely wrong in this approach, her return could prove to be disastrous if Inuyasha's feelings for her were no longer there, but Kagome chose not to dwell on those daunting notions. If she didn't do this now, it'd be the biggest regret of her life.
Kagome did not look back as she boarded the plane, nor did she feel a sadness for leaving the safety-net that Houston seemed to provide her. All she could focus on was the joy of going home, which hopefully included returning to Inuyasha's open arms.
"Lights on in five," The tech manager popped his head into the small lounge room behind the stage, where performers relaxed before and after their shows without the hassle of desperate fans to contend with. Inuyasha was seated on the worn, leather couch, sipping on a cold beer as he went over the lyrics to his newest song. In every city that he'd played in, the song had been amazingly well-received. The special release albums were sold-out by the end of the night, and buzz was spreading through the music community about him. It was easily Inuyasha's greatest song yet, but would eventually be beaten many times over as his abilities and genius grew with age and experience.
"Yeah, fine." Inuyasha stood up from the couch and stretched his body, readying muscles for the long performance ahead. It was the grand finale of his first solo-tour, hosted in the club that had given him his first break years ago. Inuyasha could hear the crowd's excited chatter just beyond the stage, their anticipation mounting with each minute. His guitar was waiting for him on stage, the drummer and keyboardist already at their places and prepared to back him up. All Inuyasha had to do was step out and deliver the best performance of his life. Little did he know, someone very special was waiting in the throngs of other fans to see him come alive as well.
Kagome plane had arrived on time, and she was greeted by her elated family and friends. It was reminiscent of the last time she had come home from Houston, only now it was significantly more emotional and important. Kagome was back in every sense of the word. She shared stories of her adventures over a beautiful dinner, enrapturing her loved ones with the passion and joy in which she described everything. Sesshoumaru and Kagura shared the exciting news of the recent discovery of an unplanned second baby, and Ayame showed Kagome the beautiful diamond engagement ring Kouga had given her two weeks prior.
Even though she had been absent for a year, it felt as if no time had passed at all. Kagome fell into her place amongst her family and friends with ease. No one saw her as the broken and tormented girl that needed rescuing; and she no longer saw herself that way either. She shared with them what had spurred the sudden decision to come home, and was pleased to see supportive reactions on everyone's faces. Even her mother, who had previously rejected the idea of Kagome and Inuyasha being together, was eager to see them reunited. They all assured Kagome that he had been faithful during her absence, which eased her worried mind somewhat. The next night was his final performance, and Miroku gave Kagome his ticket so she could attend the sold-out performance.
Amongst the other concert-goers, Kagome didn't stand out at all. She was but another face in a sea of excited people. And with the club's lights dimmed as Inuyasha took his place on stage, stepping into the spotlight, there was no chance he could know that Kagome was watching. Unfortunately, the mass of fans was so tightly packed towards the stage that it was impossible to maneuver and get closer to the front. So, Kagome tucked herself at the back, near the bar, where she could grab a tall seat and watch without interruption or feeling claustrophobic.
Getting ready for that night had been incredibly nerve-racking. What was she supposed to wear? For the past year, Kagome hadn't bothered dressing up or trying to impress anyone of the opposite sex. And before that, her freedom to pick and choose her attire had been taken away. So Ayame and Sango's help had been desperately needed and greatly appreciated on Kagome's part. It was the first time that she felt equal to them, and the trio could not stop laughing as they came up with outfits and hairstyles for their anxious friend.
They finally settled on a casual, yet flirty, outfit that was sure to get Inuyasha's attention. It started with tight black stockings that were incredibly sheer against her olive-colored skin. Over that, a pair of cut-off, high-waisted denim shorts via Ayame's extensive closet. The shirt was a simple white article that they tucked into the hem of Kagome's shorts, leaving it baggy and attractively careless. Kagome stepped into a pair of black booties and her hair was washed and dried to hang in effortlessly beautiful waves in front of her shoulders. Sango applied a minimal amount of makeup, needing only to accept Kagome's natural beauty as opposed to hiding any flaws. All in all, Kagome looked very much beautiful and tempting as she stood in the doorway of her family's manor.
"You'll want this." Sesshoumaru offered her Inuyasha's favorite leather jacket, it was still a brilliant red even after years of wear and tear. Everyone had officially given their blessing, and were just as eager to see a happy conclusion to Kagome and Inuyasha's turbulent romance. There was nothing standing in the way of them being together; at least nothing that any of them could foresee.
Kagome watched from her spot at the bar as Inuyasha began the first song of his set. She cheered and screamed along with everyone else, though no one held her attention except for the handsome man on stage. Those that approached her or tried to buy her drinks went ignored, shot down before they even had a chance to make an impression. Nothing could tear Kagome's eyes away from Inuyasha's amazing form, and as he went through each beautiful song, she couldn't help but consider things. How strange was it that the circumstances of their lives had brought them together? They had fought far more than they ever got along, and rarely did it seem as if they were on the same page in life; He was always bolting ahead of her, or she was racing past him.
Now, though, it felt completely different. Kagome had made a life all on her own, braved the unknown by herself and fought tooth and nail to carve a path towards something that was completely hers. But, it seemed that path was about to converge with someone else's. Would they stay on the same road? There was no definitive answer to that question. Maybe it was only meant to be a short time that they shared the same journey…but Kagome was done fighting every inclination and desire to be with him. She was happy to let life take them wherever it saw fit, and could only hope that Inuyasha was willing to do the same.
"Alright, this is the last song. I'm a little sad to be singing it, because this tour has been the most exciting and rewarding time of my life. I'm glad that I have the chance to end it at the place that gave me my start, and I know that the people in here today are the ones who've been supporting me the longest." Inuyasha smiled as he switched his electric guitar to an old, banged-up acoustic one. Everyone cheered and screamed in support and adoration of him, lamenting that the concert's end was near. Kagome smiled as she leaned forward in her seat, one arm bent against the edge of the bar and the other hand resting in her lap.
"This last song is for someone who hasn't even heard it yet. She's been gone for a while and asked me to wait for her to come back." The crowd's mumbling and chatter died down as they listened to him, knowing that this was a time that required respectful silence on their part. "I'm sure most of you remember what happened for my family last year. I wrote this shortly afterwards, because she's the only one for me and worth the wait. So, wherever she is tonight, this song goes out to her." Kagome's breath caught in her throat as Inuyasha strummed the first few notes.
"All of these lines across my face..tell you the story of who I am. So many stories of where I've been..and how I got to where I am. But these stories don't mean anything..when you got no one to tell them to. It's true..that I was made for you. I climbed across the mountain tops…" It was just his voice and the gentle strumming of a guitar as Inuyasha poured out his undying devotion to Kagome. She was left breathless. On the next line, his voice was suddenly louder and more passionate as the music swelled intensely with the steady thrum of the drummer's beat. Inuyasha strummed his guitar harder and kicked his heel with the rhythm of the song, straining himself against his emotions and the force of his singing.
"Swam all across the ocean blue! I crossed all the lines and I broke all the rules. But baby I broke them all for you! Because even when I was flat broke..you made me feel like a million bucks. You do. I was made for you." There was an interlude of just him and the drummer continuing the emotional melody as Inuyasha took a moment to catch his breath and quell the tears brimming in his eyes. As he stepped towards the microphone again, his eyes looked up towards the ceiling. The music became somber now as he moved into the second half of the song.
"You see the smile that's on my mouth. Its hiding the words that don't come out. All of my friends they think that I'm blessed..but they don't know my head's a mess. No they don't know who I really am. And they don't know what I've become..like you do. I was made for you." The music grew in intensity again, culminating in one impactful moment as Inuyasha belted his voice with the next line. Kagome felt warm tears trickle down her left cheek and she sucked in a painful breath. Inuyasha had waited all the time, she now knew it to be true, and he still wanted her to come back.
"All of these lines across my face! They tell you the story of who I am! So many stories of where I've been and how I got to where I am! But these stories don't mean anything..when you got no one to tell them to. It's true. I was made for you." A brief pause as the drummer ceased his part of the song and Inuyasha gave one final strum of his guitar.
"Oh, yeah it's true! that I was made for you…" The music ended, the lights faded, and Inuyasha left the stage with his guitar in hand. The crowd erupted in a cacophony of applause, their voices merging into one beautiful sound of gratitude and amazement. Kagome didn't join them though. As song came to its end, Kagome had already begun moving through the crowd to make her way to the back exit. She knew Inuyasha well enough to be sure that he'd eventually come out that way, and was happy to wait for him.
It was a little after two in the morning when Inuyasha could finally consider the night over. He had finished breaking down the stage with the other band members, signed a few autographs and took pictures with emotional fans, and wrapped things up with the venue manager by the time everyone else seemed to have already gone home. The tour bus had rolled out and Inuyasha was prepared to hail a taxi to get home; the tour was officially over. Despite the rush of performing, he felt very mechanic and unenthused about returning home. But, then again, he'd been feeling that way for the better part of the last year.
With Kagome's well-being always at the back of his mind, Inuyasha hadn't been able to fully appreciate and enjoy the milestone of his career. He felt robbed of the experience, but could not bring himself to hold a grudge against Kagome for it. Maybe years ago, when he had been younger and self-centered, Inuyasha might have blamed Kagome for his state of mind. Now, as an adult with the capacity to sympathize and sacrifice, Inuyasha knew better.
Still, even if he could force his mind to understand the situation, it was harder to make his heart accept it. Kagome was elusive and mysterious towards him, and him alone. The only reason Inuyasha knew anything about her life was because friends and family shared the information with him. How long would he have to wait before she'd acknowledge him again? Even if it was to scream and yell at him, Inuyasha would give anything just to have her attention. Pushing through the club's back door, a guitar case in his hand, Inuyasha didn't notice the individual standing a few feet away, leaned against the brick wall of the neighboring building.
"Hey, Inu-Yuppie." She spoke out loud, grinning at the not-so-affectionate nickname from their childhood. Inuyasha's back was to her, as he'd been headed towards the street to catch a ride home, but she saw him freeze in mid-step. There was a greenish light beaming down on the pair from the club's neon lights, putting them in stark contrast with the darkness of the alleyway. Inuyasha turned around with a bewildered look in his eye, unable to do much besides stare at the girl, the woman, before him.
In an instant, he knew it to be Kagome, but the person standing before him was someone he almost didn't recognize. She was so confident and beautiful, a sight Inuyasha hadn't seen since their teenage years. He was now twenty-two, and she twenty, but it felt as if they'd aged far beyond that. One thing remained though, and that was the dazzling smile that pulled at her lips; causing the dimples that Inuyasha loved to kiss become prominent. After pushing away from the brick wall, Kagome sauntered towards him with a grace she had acquired through age and experience. She moving slowly, so not to scare the poor guy.
"You were amazing, Inuyasha. I'm glad I finally got to see you perform again." Her voice was soft now, as the space between them was barely more than two or three feet. When Inuyasha didn't move or answer back, Kagome worried that her assumption of his feelings might be wrong. Had she waited too long to recover any kind of relationship with him? Inuyasha's face was a strange expression that didn't tell her what he was thinking. Kagome's brow furrowed and hands fidgeted at her sides nervously. "I'm sorry I made you wait so long, Inuyasha. I just didn't know what to say to you. But I do now." He still didn't move. Kagome glanced down and noticed how tightly his hand was gripping the guitar case handle. Was he angry with her?
"Look, you have every right to be mad at me…but please say something, Inuyasha." Her voice broke as blue eyes finally looked back up into his handsome, confusing face. In one sudden, fluid motion, Inuyasha dropped the guitar case at their feet and his arms shot out towards Kagome. Brought into a crushing embrace, Kagome's arms were trapped at her sides as he held her tightly, one hand gently holding the back of her head towards his shoulder.
His muscles trembled against her, not out of force but due to how weak he suddenly felt. Kagome's body molded against Inuyasha's larger frame, and she was taken back by how much it felt like coming home. He even smelled the same. Inuyasha's voice was strained and broken as he whispered into her ear. His fingers threaded the silky fibers of her hair, and she felt his chest shudder against her own.
"You're back. I can't believe it…It doesn't feel real. I missed you so much!" Relief flooded Kagome as her fears were put to rest. Breaking down in front of her, Inuyasha refused to let Kagome remove herself from his vice-like hold. She managed to pull her arms out before wrapping them around his neck, soothing and comforting Inuyasha as he wept against her shoulder. Inuyasha had never been so vulnerable and exposed before, and Kagome felt incredibly blessed and humbled that he trusted her in such a way.
"I missed you too. So much." It was her time to cry, but Kagome refused and bit back the sob in her throat. "You saved me Inuyasha…so many times you saved me." His arms tightened around her even more, and then slowly they pulled back in order to meet each other's eyes. Inuyasha had fresh tears running down his face, and her own threatened to fall at any moment. He looked so helpless that it almost broke her heart to think she was the cause. A sad smile pulled at Kagome's lips and one of her hands came to rest at the side of his flushed face. Inuyasha's eyes shut on their own accord as he leaned into her touch. Her hand was soft against the course grain of his stubbly cheek. while her thumb traced the wet skin under his eye, brushing away fresh tears, Kagome managed to speak despite the tremor in her voice.
"I am so, so sorry for making you wait so long. I-I just didn't know how to come home until now. I finally listened to the song you made me…and then I knew." Kagome smiled beautifully, which forced unshed tears to roll down her face, as Inuyasha kissed the inside of her palm affectionately. She felt his hands traced down her back and up her sides, as if to confirm that she was truly back and that this wasn't a dream. His own tears continued to fall, and it made him sniffle childishly.
"The whole time I was gone, no matter where I was, I never felt comfortable. I tried to distract myself from thinking about you by staying busy, but I always felt…empty. I kept looking for something to make me feel better and fill that empty space. It took all that time for me to realize that you're what I was looking for." Sniffling her runny nose, Kagome had to clear her throat when Inuyasha finally opened his piercing, golden eyes again. He was at a loss for words, and she was starting to run out of her own. "I feel like I'm home now, Inuyasha. I never want to be away from you, ever again. Being away from you was the worst part of the past three years."
Inuyasha couldn't believe what he was hearing. It was a dream. This had to be a dream. Her words cut to the center of him and reigniting the passion and feelings that had been denied for so long. Having her in his arms felt like heaven. Knowing that she was safe, and that she wanted to be with him, was like coming up for air. Finally, a smile cracked and his lips pulled back to reveal a beautiful sight that made Kagome's heart flutter in response. Inuyasha had said all he needed with the songs he wrote, she needed to hear no words at that moment.
His calloused hands lifted to gently cup the sides of Kagome's face, slowly drawing himself closer as her neck craned with the desire to close the space between them. Both of their hearts began to beat wildly and her hands fell to the front of Inuyasha's chest, grasping the cotton material of his shirt as if afraid to let go. Kagome gazed up at him through half-lidded eyes, her lips parted and body aching for more. Inuyasha didn't hesitate. His eyes shut as he leaned in and pressed his lips against hers. Kagome's eyes automatically closed in pure bliss as they were taken back to their first kiss all those years ago.
It quickly became a desperate and needing embrace, with their mouths locked in a dance that conveyed all the feelings their words couldn't. Kagome moaned softly against him as he held the back of her neck, the other hand dropping to feel the delicate curve of her lower-back. Kagome stood on the balls of her feet as she arched into him, her arms circling his neck to prevent Inuyasha from pulling away. The world around them was forgotten in that moment. Nothing existed so long as they stayed in this beautiful and long-overdue embrace.
"Kagome," Inuyasha whispered her name hotly, his forehead pressing into hers as they parted to catch their breath. Her eyes opened to meet his again, and Inuyasha watched as she innocently licked her pouty lips. A shiver ran up his spine at the tantalizing sight. "Let's go home." He said warmly, and smiled at the look of elation that fell across her stunning face. Kagome nodded her head, unable to use her words just yet. Though their bodies cried against it, Inuyasha and Kagome slowly pulled away from either other; though their hands remained locked in the space between them. He bent down to pick up the forgotten guitar and took the first step towards the street.
"So, don't laugh when you see the inside. I just signed the lease before I went on tour and didn't get a chance to unpack everything." Inuyasha and Kagome were standing in the hallway of a beautiful apartment complex, her arms hugging one of his as he turned a brass key in its lock. As a sign of truly growing up, Inuyasha had used a portion of his personal savings to move out on his own. The apartment was on the twentieth floor, and was more than just the bare minimum; it was to be the place he made home. It took up half of the entire floor and comprised of three rooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious floor plan that opened to a balcony outside.
"I told you, I don't care." Kagome whispered softly as she leaned up to plant a kiss on his neck. Inuyasha's hand was turning the knob at that moment, and he paused to enjoy the exciting sensation of her lips against his skin. She was no longer a nervous, inexperienced teenager that needed guidance; Kagome was completely woman and confident in her actions. Inuyasha took her small waist in his arm and pulled her inside the darkened apartment, causing Kagome to laugh and lean into him before she tripped over their feet. It felt just like the times they snuck into each other's room. Kagome and Inuyasha were making up for the years that had been stolen from them in this one night.
Once the door was shut, Inuyasha and Kagome were shrouded in darkness, only able to see by the residual city lights that seeped into the apartment through the windows. Instantly his mouth was against hers, hands finding the soft skin of her neck as they dove under the leather fabric of his jacket. Kagome greedily returned the kiss as she allowed him to push the jacket from her shoulders. The article silently fell to the floor and cool air wrapped around her heated, excited body.
They needed neither light or sight to know where to go, Inuyasha knew his apartment well enough and Kagome trusted him completely. Lost in a passionate, slow kiss, Inuyasha and Kagome's mouths only parted long enough to allow their shirts to be pulled over their heads. It began with Inuyasha's as Kagome pulled it up the expanse of his toned back and over his broad shoulders. He easily reached up and tugged the shirt over his head, tossing it somewhere behind Kagome. Her hands fell across his exposed skin, relishing in the strength that she felt beneath the soft flesh.
It was as if they were waltzing across the apartment. Inuyasha used his body to guide Kagome backwards to the other side of the room, where his bedroom door remained open and waiting for them to enter. Kagome brought her hands down to pull the tucked-in shirt away from her body, which Inuyasha was only too happy to help discard carelessly on the floor. Her mouth found his collarbone, teasing the sensitive spot with gentle bites and licks that allowed her to taste the unique flavor of his skin. Inuyasha tipped his head back as a soft moan slipped past his lips, charging Kagome with pride at eliciting such a response. She felt one of his hands caressing the skin between her naked shoulder blades while the other roamed the length of her spine.
Inuyasha took another step towards his bedroom, pulling himself and Kagome into an area that was blanketed in the bright lights of the nearest office building. Still, their eyes remained shut as the two continued to enjoy the prolonged kiss. Inuyasha's hands found the clasp of Kagome's black bra, and he easily unhooked it; though he did not immediately remove it from her body. Kagome was vaguely aware of what was happening, and did nothing to stop it. Goosebumps arose as his fingertips traced lightly across her back, finding the straps that hung on her shoulders. Slowly, Inuyasha began sliding them away and Kagome gladly pulled her arms free, leaving the both of them completely nude from the waist up.
For a moment, they just enjoyed the beautiful opportunity of feeling the other's unencumbered body without the need to rush things. They had all the time in the world, and there was no fear of being caught. Inuyasha slowly pulled away from Kagome's lips as his hands traveled up the length of her graceful arms, resting at the delicate bend of her shoulders. In the light, he had a better view of her face, which was relaxed and relaying a blissful emotion. Slowly, her bright eyes opened and returned his affectionate gaze. Unintentionally, Inuyasha's thumb brushed across the space beneath her collarbone. It was the place that Kagome had been branded, and now a faded scar remained after it's violent removal from her body.
He saw fear and shame cross over her beautiful face. Kagome turned her head to look at where his thumb still rested, reminded of things that were better left in the past. Against her control, concerns of what he thought of her rushed through Kagome's worried mind and she dared to look up at him with tearful eyes. She had come out of the ordeal untouched by disease or disfigurement, but the stigma still seemed to stain the opinion she had of herself. So many men had touched her…would Inuyasha still want to?
Kagome couldn't bring herself to hold his gaze and turned her face away, ashamed and guilty for things that were not her fault. Then, she felt his body come closer and his head bent down towards her neck. Kagome's eyes opened as she looked to the corner of the room nervously, then shut them again in complete blissful abandon when his lips captured the marred skin. He tenderly kissed the place that was the source of her insecurities, offering a seal of love and acceptance that she desperately needed. Kagome's head tipped back as she gave into him completely.
**LEMON STARTS HERE!**
With the final barrier between them no longer an issue, Inuyasha and Kagome moved into his bedroom with renewed fervor. There was only a bed, as the rest of his belongings remained in the stacks of boxes against the far-left wall. Inuyasha probably only slept in it once or twice before he left on his tour. Kagome paid no mind as she frantically toed off her boots and pushed the shorts and black stockings over her hips. Inuyasha stole glances of her as he ripped off his belt and tugged his own jeans and boxers off eagerly. In his hurry to get on the bed, Inuyasha tripped as his heel stayed caught in the crumbled fabrics. Kagome was already seated on the edge of the mattress, completely exposed, and tried to hide her laughter at his flustered reaction.
"Hey," he feigned a warning tone and took the place beside her, leaning close to hook a hand behind her neck. Kagome smiled against the kiss that Inuyasha pulled her into and slowly began to recline backwards until the sheets cooled her warm skin. Inuyasha laid next to her, propped up by his elbow that rested beside her shoulder. His free hand came to rest above her chest, between the valley of her breasts, and there it remained.
"Inuyasha…" Kagome spoke softly into the space between them, her eyes searching Inuyasha's handsome face. He was leaning over her somewhat, but not in such a way to make her feel trapped. A smile tugged at one corner of his mouth, charming Kagome and making her reach up to run her hands through his beautiful hair.
"I love you, Kagome." He wasn't scared to admit it, because everything Kagome did told him that she returned the feeling.
"I love you too," She reciprocated sweetly, craning her neck to plant a chaste kiss to his lips. Kagome's hand glided across his chest, over his ribs, and gently grasped Inuyasha's muscular back to pull him forward. She was ready and needed no more time. Inuyasha followed his cue and rolled over on top of her; hands planted firmly on her sides and knee spreading her beautiful legs apart. Kagome had come prepared for this night, having taken extra time during her shower to shave every inch of her body and keeping certain places trimmed.
Inuyasha took the opportunity to memorize every dip and curve of her tantalizing body. Kagome had indeed recovered the lean musculature that every ballerina needed, but she also retained wonderful suppleness in her chest and behind that made Inuyasha's mouth water. Dark, wild hair fanned out below her, creating the image of a seductive minx that had Inuyasha wrapped around her slender finger. His cock was at attention already, eager to sink into the place that it remembered to be better than anyone else he'd been with.
Beneath him, Kagome felt her stomach flip with excitement at being looked at in such a way. Her nipples hardened against the cool air, and between her legs a familiar wetness began to prepare her for what was to come. Those legs came up slowly, forcing her inner-thighs to brush Inuyasha's hips, as Kagome hooked her ankles behind him.
"Are you just gonna stare at me? Or are you gonna fuck me?" She asked huskily, a challenging tone lacing her playful voice. Grinning wickedly, Inuyasha braced himself on one elbow as he took hold of her pert nipple between his thumb and curled forefinger. Giving it a sharp squeeze, Inuyasha laughed when Kagome gasped and arched her back, squealing in pain and delight.
"What was that? You want me to do what?" He teased her, giving the sensitive nub another squeeze that made Kagome moan loudly. Her hands found their place at his shoulders, dull fingernails digging into the hard muscle.
"Fuck me, Inuyasha!" The demand was made with a mixture of laughter and gasps; a sign that she did enjoy a bit of pain with her pleasure. Inuyasha wouldn't go much further with the discovery, but kept it at the back of his mind for future sexual exploits. With a dark chuckle, he released her sore nipple and quickly began to sooth it with his hungry mouth. A wet tongue rolled and sucked on the pink tip deliciously, causing Kagome to squirm and toss her head in new levels of ecstasy. It had been so long since someone handled her body in such a way that it not only excited her, but made her feel loved. Inuyasha made sure to pay the other breast an equal amount of attention, and by the time he was done, Kagome was panting and bucking her hips with a dire need to feel him inside her.
With his body flushed against hers, Inuyasha reached down to guide himself into her. The soft tip pressed against Kagome's slick folds, making him shudder with anticipation. Kagome's arms wrapped loosely around his shoulders and she remained still beneath him, eyes closed and bruised mouth parted slightly. Inuyasha slowly began to rock his hips forward, wincing at the strength it took to restrain himself, but also reveling in the absolute wonderful sensation overcoming him.
"Oh~" She breathed hotly against his neck, her nails digging into his skin sharply. Inuyasha couldn't hold back his moan as he gave a sudden forward jerk of his hips, completely implanting himself inside of Kagome's warm cavern. There was no need to wait after that, and he naturally began a steady pace of quickly pulling out and slowly pushing back in. They were a perfect fit. Kagome had no chance to be reminded of her troubled past, because with each forward push, she was rocked closer and closer to the edge of pleasure that had been denied her since the last time she was with Inuyasha.
They didn't have the need to share comforting or encouraging words, the moans and gasps between them enough to prove their mutual enjoyment. All that needed to happen was faster and harder thrusts that could bring the mind-shattering orgasm that both were desperate to achieve. Sweat coated their bodies and the room quickly became noticeably warmer, causing black and silver hair to cling against damp skin. Kagome roughly pulled Inuyasha's face towards hers and battled him to dominate the kiss, her teeth pulling at his bottom lip and tongue rolling against his own. She moaned against the searing kiss as his pace quickened, signaling the approach of his climax.
Inuyasha fought his tired body as he maintained the fast speed, further ignited by the sound of their bodies meeting and the sight of her jumping chest. He had endured a year of celibacy, and this more than made up for the pent-up frustrations he had felt during that time. From the way Kagome's cries became higher and more desperate, he knew that she craved it just as much. Finally, he was pushed over the edge. Inuyasha gave one last powerful thrust against Kagome's body, then held the position as he emptied inside of her. Kagome watched as his body arched and head tipped back, and as she felt the warmth spreading inside of her, she found her own release with a loud cry.
**LEMON ENDS HERE!**
Inuyasha collapsed next to Kagome on the bed, their shoulders touching and legs tangling as both caught their breath. Each was spiraling down from their own sexual high, and slowly returned to a state of complete satisfaction and exhaustion. It was damn near four in the morning! Kagome closed her mouth when she noticed how dry it had become, then had to cough softly because of her sore throat. Had she been moaning and gasping that much? Inuyasha cracked open one of his eyes and looked at her beautiful profile.
"Thirsty?" It was a question that didn't need an answer; because he was completely parched as well. Kagome merely nodded as she curled her body, trying to conserve her body heat now that the room felt much cooler than before. A smile curled on her face when Inuyasha planted a sweet kiss on her temple before he left to get them a glass of water. She listened to him navigate through the dark apartment, pull a glass down from the cupboard, and fill it with water from the tap. So…this was how it felt to be in a normal relationship? Kagome slowly pushed her heavy body into a sitting position, keeping her legs closed for the sake of her modesty, and smiled upon Inuyasha's return.
"Thank you." Her voice was hoarse, but the water helped to alleviate the painful irritation. Inuyasha nodded as he crawled back onto the bed, flopping down behind her as if all strength had left his body. The groaning noises he made cause Kagome to choke on her water with laughter.
"Don't die." Inuyasha's words were muffled by the pillow his head rested on. Kagome bent down to place the glass on the floor, then slowly moved to lay down next to him.
"I'll try not to." She responded playfully, then noticed an old blanket crumbled on the floor next to the bed. After pulling it onto the mattress, Kagome threw the sheet over their naked bodies, ready to settle down for a well-deserved rest. Suddenly, her body was jerked by a pair of arms that pulled her into a warm chest. Inuyasha held Kagome against him, forcing her head to lay atop his shoulder while his arm looped behind her back. One of her delicate hands found a comfortable place on his stomach, which Inuyasha quickly held to lock their fingers together.
"Thanks for coming back." He spoke softly, already feeling the pull of sleep. Kagome smiled and turned her head to plant a kiss against Inuyasha's chest.
"Thanks for waiting." And with those simple words, all their past transgressions and conflicts went away. Kagome an Inuyasha were on even ground, both looking towards the same future for the first time in their lives.