Well hello there my dearies! Tis is I here again with another chappie before your very eyes! Since I thought you deserved more from my loooooong absence and the one you just endured now, I have cooked of one heck of a long chapter. Seriously peeps, I've never written a chappie this long so it's a new record for me! (London Tepten voice: yay mee! *claps fast* idk how to actually spell her name *sweat drop*) you'll have to forgive me for taking a few weeks for this peeps. But it's been hard to come up with ideas, put it down, stay in health (moms orders), and I'm going through a moving process. You know, new house, new school. Now I get to see what it really feels like and I admit that I'm quite nervous. Lol but no worries though! Though I must say, the main reason why this has become harder and also the reason Kagome's attitude and actions seems to be changing is because I've started to fall In love with reading sessh-kag fics.

:: a lot of readers just sit there with wide eyes while others protest and some girls squeal::

I know! I know! Shoot the author.

::many readers takes out guns::

*holds up hands and sweat drops* NOT LITARALLY! Gosh! *sighs* but that's just an own personal guilty pleasure. I know for a fact that this will remain inu-kagz so please don't fret…unless of course, I get carried away somewhere along the line….. which I pray I don't. I mean come on! Sesshoumaru's one hot demon! His personality just draws you in and his looks are faint and drool worthy! No, it's more than worthy! Gosh I just love that Inu-demon! 3 *pauses and turns to see Sesshoumaru*

Sesshoumaru: *blank look*

Lilmama: *blushs* eheh heh….. you heard most of that didn't you?

Sesshoumaru: *nods*….. *smirk*

Lilmama: *blush deepens with wide eyes and then faints*

Sesshoumaru: *walks over and picks lilmama up then glance back at the readers.*

Readers: O.O

Sesshoumaru: *blank face* …. Enjoy. *walks out*

FINDING GROUND, FINDING CONFUSION

"Once again, target locked." A low voice breathed sharply. Unsuspecting eyes glinted as they locked on a raven haired beauty. The oblivious girl was scarcely speaking to a shorter girl as they both walked away – to as it guessed – their next period. The unknown person slowly slithered from behind the corner it hid behind as the girls disappeared from its sight, its eyes narrowing.

'hmm, that girl…' something about this Ka-go-me deeply and strangely called to it. Others may have been blind to it, but it could sense a familiar power about the girl when it first laid eyes on her, gently lapping at the surface almost in a teasing manner. Its lips slowly raised to asmirk then, eyes glinting with a sense that'd send chills. "No wonder my dick of a master held interest in her." It knew fairly well that its master barely held interest in anything besides gaining more power above others. He was a sick bastard, but it obeyed his orders for reasons that complied for itself. The job had its perks. And looking upon the fairly Ms. Higurashi, this was defiantly a perk. It was a shame that it couldn't touch her…. yet. At this thought, Its smirk grew into a sinister smile. Though it must say, that Higurashi sure did remind it of a lost obsession it once knew.

'Strange what you find these days.' Closing its eyes against its thoughts, it shoved its hands into its pockets and turned on its heel before walking away. The sound of a deep chuckle faintly echoed through the halls, its sound tipping hysterical to those ears it fell on…

(A lot of 'it's', I know. Lol but I will not give away anything! Not even the gender. You never know who this could possibly be… mwahahahaha! And don't be tricked by the chuckle. I have a twisted mind so don't assume. *evil smile*)

Kagome and Rin walked into the gymnastics room (that was actually half a gymnastics room and half a weight room, imagine that!) to find Ayame and Sango among the other girls on one side of the –quite large –room. As expected, looking across the room, Kagome saw all of the males sitting on benches, all in different levels of boredom as the girls were chatting away.

Sango, who spotted them first, waved them over to where she and Ayame sat, Rin instantly engaging in a conversation with Ayame on how to punish Inuyasha for "wasting practice time".

While they did this, Sango looked over them to Kagome with soft eyes and a warm smile, calling her name to get the girl's attention. She, herself, had instantly noticed the tight vibe Kagome gave off, similar to when they first met and was slightly worried by it. "Daijouka, Kagome?" she questioned gently, obviously afraid her thoughts were correct.

Hearing her name being called, Kagome calmly pulled from her inner trance to glance over at the demon slaying girl, her eyes gazing out the corner of her eyes the only showing that she registered even hearing the girl while her head stayed unmoving. "Hai, Sango-san." She replied before looking forward again. Inwardly wincing at the cold tone her voice seemed to take, however, she refused to let it bother her nonetheless. Besides, these people were distracting her, blinding her of her tasks at hand. She couldn't afford to slip up any longer because of how they wanted her to see them. (Poor, poor Kagome… )

But is this really a reason to act so hostile? Her hanyou side questioned.

Kagome's lips dipped in the faintest frown at the sudden intrusion of her hanyou half. 'What do you mean 'acting hostile'? I'm acting nothing of the sort.' If she could mentally narrow her eyes at it, she defiantly was at that moment.

She heard her hanyou half snort at her reply. Oh yeah, sure. And talking so proper and acting cold? I know you heard that as well. You could hear it in your voice. I guess all of the talks you had with our brothers, Ayame, and apologizing to those human girls was all for nothing right? You only did that to make it seem like you may like them in the near future, that they had a chance, only to shut them out completely because they are a nuisance, hm? Kagome could feel it's displeasure in the choice of actions she was taking.

Kagome bit back a growl. She did not need the guilt trip right now. 'No, it wasn't! I just-…. I just need time to-'

To what, completely ignore them? It cut in sarcastically. Listen miko, I know you're confused beyond belief and have a lot on your plate, but that comes with caring for others. It's not something you can just cut on and off and put on hold when it overwhelms you. You have to-

'I don't have to do anything' Kagome cut if off while mentally trying to shove it to the back of her head.

Oh yeah? Well you just made your first slip up girl. Look at Sango, no wonder you have no friends- Kagome abruptly shut it in the back of her mind before it could say more. She wouldn't admit it, but its last remark stung her hard. It should know why she didn't have people enter her life! This was best for her…right? Yes, it was, because she had things to protect; to guard. Her own secret was at stake here, and she wasn't willing to chance it for no one.

And there's that sharp sting again…

Kagome closed her eyes against the migraine she felt coming on. Ugh! This was so annoying! Okay, she admits that she feels slightly bad about how she was treating them again but it was for the best! Why couldn't she act this way without consequences and having to worry about hurting people's feelings? She shouldn't even care if it did! So why start now?

Kagome sighed silently, opening her eyes again. She felt biased sprinkled with guilt. She knew what she was doing was wrong but she was already a foot deep in it. For the sake of herself, what other choice did she have, honestly? Kagome steeled her resolve. They'd just have to deal with what little they got. It was wrong but she couldn't allow herself to care anymore. If she did, it'd only get dangerous, for her and them.

Mentally nodding at the leveled ground she found again, Kagome then remembered part of what her hanyou half told her. She breathed deeply before glancing to Sango out of the corner her eye to inspect the damage.

For Sango, however, Kagome's words caught her off guard completely, like a clean stab to the chest. She blinked in shock, her eyes filling with worry as her brows creased, her lips dripping into a frown. Her mind started to reel. Since when did Kagome used prefixes and spoke so formally? She thought back to when she first met her, frantically trying to come up with an answer while her eyes scanned over Kagome's posed structure. Sango took in her colder eyes that seemed more blocked then before and her mind came to a sudden halt. Sudden chills crawled down her spine as a thought struck her cold: Did Kagome even see them as an acquaintance anymore? Never had Kagome act this… blocked, this sure. It was a frightening rival to even Sesshoumaru.

Kagome then turned her attention to nothing in particular, anything but Sango, and sighed silently. She saw the question written clearly in the girl's eyes, the shock and hurt, but thought best to ignore it. During this whole exchange, Ayame and Rin was still absorbed into their conversation before everyone was called to attention by two people walking into the center of the room, the female of the two blowing a whistle to call attention.

Since Kagome never took time to explain the scenery, it seemed a good time as any. The room itself was rather…big. Like two buildings shoved into one without a wall separating it. However, there was a thick white line painted across the wall, ceilings, and floors to separate the weight room side from the gymnastic side. It was to save more money, is what Kagome was told, though she still wondered how it possibly did but shrugged it off. The weight training side held floors that was made of cement and painted a navy blue while the walls were a pasty white with the words "THE SHIKONS" written dramatically in 3D on the wall in purple, pink, and outlined in black. There were many weights and weight machines scattered out for whomever (guy) to use as they please.

The gymnastics side, however, were a contrast. The floors were almost resembled a pure white marble but seemed to be a cleanly buffed wood. The walls were a dusty pink while wall high mirrors lined the walls, stopping at were a door lead to the girls' locker room. Located beside it was another door that lead out to the same running track that the gym used. Only a foot away from that was a large window where anyone could clearly watch the students running. (For the coach, Kagome guessed.) Scattered across the floor, was gymnastic props that Kagome only faintly eyed before snorting under her breath. She still couldn't believe she'd have to do this girly crap. (Keep in mind. Kagome hates girly things. Including clothes, activities, unnecessary gossip, ect.)

Now, located right beside the double doors that lead back into the halls, were two offices that obviously belonged to the coaches. The female coach located on the right, with the gymnastics side while the male's were located on the left, with the weight room.

Speaking of coaches…

"Alright, listen up brats!" a strong female voice sliced cleanly through the air yet still held its usual smooth erotic undertone. Everyone turned their attention to the female coach known as coach Abi. Kagome seen her share of demons in her lifetime but she did faintly wondered how this particular demon was able to seem so exotically beautiful yet frightening all at once. Coach Abi was defiantly a different description of beautiful. With dark midnight hair that cascaded down her back to her knees, flipping out occasionally, eyes with blood red irises, and incredibly long and thick black eye lashes, and a pasty blue scaled wing attached to her shoulder– she could be clearly described as a blood sucking bird demon. A rare demon in any case, and from what Kagome was told the day before, she was also a royal descendant in that category. With one look at her, it surely couldn't be denied. She held a royal air about her in her posture and face emotions. It was equally evident in her voice tone, the way she spoke, and her exotic appearance. Coach Abi held flawlessly milky skin that brought out the mysterious beauty of her eyes and contrasted with her hair. Her face seemed sculptured, angelic yet cold rolled into one with perfect eye brows and blood stained lips. Bangs hung slightly over her eyes while the top proportion of her hair was swooped back into a small bun near the back/top of her held, held by a satin red ribbon. She dressed neatly in a black and white striped referee shirt and black slacks that strained against her figure while adorning white ballet shoes. Finally, her long almost claw like nails also couldn't be missed as they contrasted against her small, pale hands. They were painted a ruby red.

"As I explained the day before, you know the ropes! Ladies!" her eyes flicked to the girls. "Head to the locker rooms, get into uniform, and report back to me so we can start drills! Afterwards, I have an announcement." She sighed the last part while seeming to withhold an eye roll.

"Alright boys, you know the drill as well!" spoke the second coach in a strong voice that seemed withered with age. The male coach, known as coach Totosai, was a strange looking demon in itself. Kagome never really found out what type he was, but didn't stress the issue. With coach Totosai's features, it could trick anyone onto believing that he was just a weak, frail, worn out looking man with his hunched over posture and old withered skin that was a pale color of copper. But if they thought that, boy was they wrong.

In fact, Kagome saw the day before a cocky guy that chose the foolish act to laugh at and challenge the old yet wise demon. I mean come on. He wasn't chosen to be a coach for nothing. And those who knew this and had seen the boy stand up to the old demon, pitied the poor boy. In seconds flat, coach Totosai had the demon boy held in the air with just one arm by his throat, letting him hang there as the boy tried in vain to loosen the tight grip. Coach Totosai only gazed at him with a blank – near bored – stare with his overly large and round eyes before carelessly tossing him like a rag doll with a flick of his wrist. It was an amusing sight to see, but Kagome instantly gained respect for the old demon.

Coach Totosai was dressed differently than coach Abi, however. Instead of the usually referee shirt and slacks. He dressed in a traditional kimono. The top striped like a referee shirt while the pants were black along with his socks but with white sandals. It was interesting. Coach Totosai was strange in appearance. With his large eyes and sharp, nearly pointed, looking nose, one could only guess what type of demon he was. His age was clearly shown as well. With thin silver gray hair, shoulder length, pulled back into a pony tail and same colored beard, it was nothing in comparison to the eyes he had that held such knowledge, seeming to have transcend time and know all things. His voice, like described before, was strong when needed, but also shows that it was withered in age. It held a sweet, yet wise ringing to it that'd remind you of your favorite grandfather, or maybe great grandfather.

"Go get into gear! But you better do it peacefully! No fighting, no arguing! Come back and do start doing as you always do!" coach Totosai rubbed his temples. "and please, don't make me regret it." he waved his hand carelessly. "Hop to it!"

At hearing that, everyone stood and made their way to their reasonable locker rooms. Kagome slowly stood, ignoring everyone else, and made her way to coach Abi.

At seeing her approach, coach Abi looked up from her clip board. "Ah, my new transfer student, Kagome Higurashi, am I correct?" She spoke, her voice lighter than before but still held an authority. At this Kagome silently nodded her approval. Coach Abi rested her free hand on her hip, glancing the girl over. Finally, she smiled, a very small one, but a smile nonetheless. "Hari told me of your problem fitting the usual uniform." She frowned slightly. "Those things are quite old anyway. It's about time we upgrade." Sighing, her frown vanished. But she wasn't smiling either. "No worries, I have something for you in my office. Stand here and I will go achieve them for you."

Kagome, again, nodded as she watched coach Abi turn and head into her office. Just seconds later, coach Abi returned with clothing materials and handed it over to her. "Here you are. Just go into the girls' locker room and change into this as instructed." She spoke before smirking lightly. "I thought you may like it."

Kagome nodded in thanks, a small, polite smile of her own. "Arigatou." Turning, she headed into the girls' locker room. As she entered, she saw many pass by her, already dressed, one of them being Sango who lowered her head and kept her eyes averted. Kagome sighed silently and said nothing as she went into a stall for privacy and quickly changed.

She eyed the attar she now had on. Should she even go out it this? The top was like a half shirt, but rose a little more because of her breasts, showing her flat and lightly toned stomach. She wasn't even going to think of stepping out like that, so she threw her white tank top under it. It looked much better. She was thankful for the neckline being so far up. The shirt itself was blood red with 'shikons' written across her chest in a cursive white. Across the back, it said: 'it's better when a girl say it' in white block letters. Kagome rolled her eyes. 'That's lame, and seeing that it's red, it defiantly belongs to coach Abi.' Besides the shirt she was glad to find that the shorts were again silky gym shorts that seemed it could have belonged to a guy. Except these where black, her second favorite color, next to purple. Finish tying up her white Reeboks she kept in her tote bag, she left her hair as it was and exited the locker room.

Glancing around, she saw that most guys were already lifting weights, practicing boxing on a weight bag while another held it in place, or something else described as working out. Their attar didn't change much from gym clothes accept that the shirts were just plain white T's with 'shikons' written across it in navy blue. Some guys stopped and gawked at her, others whistled. Kagome ignored them, though, but unintentionally paused when she spotted Inuyasha. He, again, was sporting his own attar. With a black short sleeved muscle shirt that showed his strong build, lose red gym shorts, and his silver hair pulled back into a lose low ponytail, he could cause a girl to faint.

Kagome rolled her eyes and strode over to where the rest of the girls are. Too bad she wasn't any girl. (So she says. That guy is hot! ^_^) she glanced back over to where he was. Inuyasha was lifting hand weights, his arm muscle flexing with each easy lift. Glancing up, he looked back down before pausing and quickly looking up again, glancing her over. Catching her eyes, he smirked and winked before going back to the task at hand.

Kagome snorted under her breath. "Tease" she mumbled before quickly locating Ayame, Rin, and Sango before sitting down near them. Not close, but still not too far to cause an unneeded alarm. Rin was the first to notice Kagome's appearance and grinned. "Well, well, well. Nice attar Kaggie." She teased lightly with a wink. Ayame joined in. "Ya know, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you were matching Inuyasha on purpose." She joked. "Right Sango?" she laughed expecting Sango to join her. But Sango only glanced at Kagome with less than lively eyes and pulled on a smile. "yea…" she agreed weakly.

Ayame and Rin took instant notice to this and their smiles melted off their faces, replaced with concern. Kagome frowned slightly but turned away so not to see her face any longer. She'd understand one day, hopefully.

Ayame took notice to Kagome while Rin continued to quietly ask Sango questions. Her jade irises narrowed at the raven haired girl in thought…

"I'm fine Rin, honestly!" Sango chuckled awkwardly, waving her hand in front of her face as if she clearing the air.

Rin pursed her lips together while looking at her closely, making Sango sweat drop. "Ne, Sango-chan… you're lying. You know I can tell when you are. You're eyes always give you away." Rin frowned. "Rather you want them or not." Kagome looked to Sango, the sad and smothered hurt was written clearly in her eyes, Rin was right.

Sango looked at Rin silently before raising her eyes to look at Kagome, making the girl in turn, to look away again. Ayame's eyes then narrowed more into a glare. She opened her mouth to speak but was instantly cut off to Kagome's relief.

"Alright girls!" coach Abi called attention. "We're going to jump right in and start with a few stretches. Then we're going to do a test." At this the girls started to frantically talk and whisper among themselves.

Kagome raised a brow, a test this soon? She was no gymnastic specialist, but shouldn't they get at least partially into a few moves and drills before testing it?

"OMG!" Kagome's eyes flew over to a surprised Rin who was now grinning. "I almost forgot about 'the test' that coach Abi gives each year!"

"The test?" Kagome questioned. She's couldn't help her curiosity.

Ayame glanced at her. "yea" she clipped, almost coldly in fact. Kagome slightly narrowed her eyes at this, but ignored it nonetheless.

"Near the beginning of the year, coach Abi gives these tests. But they're always for a different reason. Though this time, it was rumored to choose for the cheerleading squad!" Rin squealed, bouncing up and down in excitement.

Kagome smiled weakly at the bubbly girl's antics. Though she, herself, cringed at the idea, Rin seemed girly enough, and quiet energetic enough to be excited for this. No doubt she'd be chosen to be a cheerleader; she had enough spirit for the whole student body and possibly more.

Kagome didn't seem to notice Ayame glance her way with a slow growing smirk, a sneaky glint growing in her eyes.

"Cheerleading huh?" Kagome joked weakly. She, herself, thought that cheerleading was a waste of time. It was just something girls could use as an excuse with the chance to flounce around in skimpy clothing, waving pom-poms and competing for having the most attention, without anyone thinking it's sluttish. It was when guys could drool over the best looking girls in clothes that barely covered anything. And last but not least, the girls had to smile until their face hurts, scream, and act preppy. Kagome shivered at the thought. If it was one thing she hated, it was a preppy girl. Though she understood Rin, the girl was every fiber of girly to the bones but wasn't at all preppy. Though Rin didn't particularly like the clothes either, you could tell with one look at her that she would be one to love to cheer.

"Omg, I just love cheering!" Rin gushed.

Kagome called it. She smirked at being spot on.

"Oh I hope I get captain this year! Then I can finally change that offending cheerleading outfit." She wrinkled her nose at the thought of it.

Kagome didn't even want to know what the outfit looked like at the moment. "What do you mean?" she questioned.

Ayame grinned this time, though it seemed a little crazed. Kagome didn't like it one bit. "oh, the captain choose the outfits each year. But so far, the outfits haven't changed from the skimpy category for three years." She answered in a peachy voice.

Kagome narrowed her eyes slightly, Ayame was creepy like this, she admitted. "For three years? Then who's been the captain for three years straight?" but as soon as she asked, she regretted it.

"Kinky-hoe" all three chorused, Ayame answering more happily than the other two.

Yep, she defiantly hated cheerleading now. Kagome felt sick; Kikyo? Kikyo has been the cheerleading captain for three years? Kagome looked over to where Kikyo sat surrounded by her small posse. As if sensing her gaze, Kikyo's eyes glanced to Kagome and she smirked before tossing her hair over her shoulder and looking away.

Kagome frowned. "Hm. I suddenly pity whomever joins that squad." She muttered.

"Exactly, that's why I hope I get captain. I mean, I don't really care if I do or not, but I just don't want that chick as captain anymore. Those drills suck and those outfits are almost ridicules. Sesshoumaru said if they get any shorter then he forbids me to even join." Rin snorted and crossed her arms, frowning. "I don't blame him."

Kagome nodded.

Coach Abi called for attention again. "As you all may know, it's around that time for football season." She sighed, crossing her arms. Anyone could plainly see that she could care less. "So that means that we need a cheerleading squad. As usual, I will be picking those who seem to be the most in shape." Her eyes skimmed over us, daring us to interrupt her. "The test is simple. As you are stretching and when you take your run around the track, I will be watching you're flexibility, posture, health, energy, muscle build, and effort." From that, I'll choose my squad and my top girl will be my captain." She paused to glance everyone over again. "Any questions?"

A hand rose, and Kagome, along with everyone else, turned to see it was Kikyo. Coach Abi's eyes narrowed slightly as she focused her attention on her. "Nani?"

Kikyo's hand slowly fell as she stood. "Can new students be captains as well?" her eyes flicked over in Kagome's direction for the quickest second before focusing on coach Abi again.

Raising a brow, Coach Abi crossed her arms. "I don't see why not Ms. (her last name), if I remember correctly, you became captain as just a freshman. You was new, and the rules haven't changed to forbid new students as far as I know."

Kikyo's eye narrowed slightly. "Yes, but even then, I knew of the routines and all the things it took to even become a Shikons captain. I went to cheerleading camp and demanded to be put in with the seniors. I took to it quite well. But a student that knows nothing of this school… I doubt-"

"Oh (her last name), stop gloating. Being a cheerleader at this school doesn't take a genius or years of training. Though you may have been the captain of three years, this school is no different from any other school." Coach Abi's eyes narrowed in disdain at Kikyo's words. "You just may be topped this year, so don't get cocky. Every year, we give a fair chance to everyone and you know that." She turned her head from Kikyo, ignoring her scowl. "There's a signup sheet for cheerleading on the table to my right, for those who would like to join, so I'll know who to watch during the test. For those who don't sign up, you still have to do it for a daily grade." She gestured to a table that had signup sheets on it before looking back to them.

A lot of girls went up to sign their names, some remained seated, Kagome among the ones who didn't move.

Rin got up to go sign her name but was stopped by Ayame. "Don't worry Rin, I got it." She stood to go up there, Sango stood with her.

Rin gave both a curious glance. "You're signing up Ayame, Sango? But I thought cheerleading was too girly for you guys."

Sango winced while Ayame waved her hand in an uncaring gesture. "I never said I would join." Ayame replied.

"And I thought someone had to be out there with you if kinky-hoe was to be captaining again, Sesshoumaru's orders." Sango sighed with a weak smile.

Rin giggled. "Oh, sorry Sans."

Sango rolled her eyes. "Yea, you so owe me." She muttered.

Rin laughed as they both quickly went up there. Rin turned to Kagome. "You don't want to try it Kagome?" Kagome winced worse than Sango did. Rin smiled in understanding. "Oh, too girly for you?"

Kagome gave a small smile of her own and nodded. "You can say that." As she replied, Sango and Ayame returned and sat back down.

After all the girls were seated, coach Abi called for attention once more. "Alright, any more questions?" After a few seconds of silence, coach Abi closed her eyes with a small smile coming to her lips, a smile that'd easily make someone uneasy. "Well, if we don't have any more questions…" she lifted her whistle to her bloodied lips and blew sharply, the sound slicing through the air and making some jump. "Begin!" she bellowed before lifting her clip board and walking away to the bleachers and take a seat and watch, eyes sharp.

All the girls scurried to the floor with one partner and started stretching their legs, arms, and torso. Some did spits, others sat on the floor with their legs spread as wide as they could get them before stretching and touching their feet, others sat on the floor, feet to feet with their partner and gripped each other's hands before pulling.

Kagome found her own spot while Rin and Sango grouped together. She started to take deep breaths, her feet placed firmly together before Ayame nudged her, quite roughly may she add. Frowning slightly, Kagome turned to the smiling demon, her smile more in the sarcastic sense. Oh boy.

"Hi there old acquaintance." She bit out 'acquaintance' with that smile still in place.

Kagome bit back a groan and chose to ignore it. "Hello there." She replied smartly, sharply in taking before pulling her right leg straight up into the air with easy effort before calmly holding it there. She glanced as Ayame to see that her eyes were now narrowed, annoyed. Kagome breathed through her nose. "Nani?" She couldn't fully hide her growing irritation.

Ayame glared, but said nothing. "Mind if I become your partner?" she muttered lowly.

Kagome turned her attention back to nothing, her face passive, emotionless. "I don't see why not." She answered shortly.

Ayame opened her mouth to reply, paused, and then closed it before sighing, her resolve suddenly deflating as her shoulders sagged. "What are you doing Kags?"

Kagome turned back to her, seeing slightly saddened jade orbs meet her before slowly bending her leg and letting it fall back in place on the floor. "What do you mean Aya?" she decided to play dumb. She wasn't going to change her resolve. Holding her arms in the air, she breathed deeply before bending over backwards, touching the floor before gently pushing all of her weight onto her arms in a handstand. Perfectly holding her weight there for a moment, she bent her legs over backwards, letting them touch the ground, before pushing herself upright again. She turned to see Ayame doing a split, touching her thigh with her forehead.

"You know what I mean Kags." She muttered lowly, so no one would over hear. "You're doing it again."

Kagome squatted into a split before slowly bending her back leg to touch her head, forming the perfect triangle. "Doing what?" she countered.

Ayame suddenly sat up to glare at her. "You know what." She snapped, her eyes narrowed once again into an intense glare.

Kagome let her leg touch the floor. "Enlighten me." She smirked. Was it wrong to take amusement to this? Because she was strangely enjoying ticking off the she wolf, as wrong as that was.

Ayame growled low in warning. "Kagome"

"Ayame" she threw back.

Her growls grew slightly. "I'm serious!"

"Hi serious, I'm Kagome."

"Ugh, Kagome!"

"Yep, that's spelled K-A-G-O-M-E. Though please don't wear it out."

Ayame growled, scowled, and stood. There just wasn't getting to that girl! Maybe she could get Koga to talk it out of her. A sigh bellowed from her lips as she watched Kagome stand before doing a few back flips before pausing and cart wheeling into a hand stand, holding, and then dropping onto her feet to face her. At seeing this, Ayame smirked. No worries, she was sure to have a surprise for Kagome. She hid her smirk and frowned at the girl again.

Kagome sighed and opened her eyes to look at Ayame. "Seriously, Ayame, what am I doing wrong this time?"

Ayame crossed her arms. She wasn't stupid. Kagome knew fairly well and Ayame knew this. "Sango" she answered simply anyway.

Kagome squatted before fully sitting on the floor, Ayame following suite. Pressing their feet against the other, they grabbed hands. "Before you even start breathing fire, just know that I did nothing." Kagome spoke as Ayame pulled her forward.

Ayame hummed in sarcastic disbelief. She was very sarcastic wasn't she? "Ummhm. So she won't talk to you for nothing? The look in her eyes when she barely even glances at you is for nothing?"

Kagome huffed and tugged her forward. She wasn't trying to hurt the poor girl – hell she wasn't trying to hurt anyone! Just trying to figure out these puzzles that came from nowhere, her gut was already twisting with what she already allowed. She was too far from her comfort zone; she had to find some ground again. She apologized for going out on a limb not exactly being her thing. Note her sarcasm. "Ayame, I've known the girl for two days. I'm not discarding everything I've said and what you and Koga told me." Kagome knew she was lying in a sense, but she was telling the truth at the same time.

Ayame broke from Kagome's grip and sat up to gaze at her. They sat in silence, penetrating each other with their gazes before finally; Ayame sighed and looked away, her face mutual. "We're still up for the mall after school, right? I don't think you're ready to bring us to your home. In all honesty, knowing you, you probably thought it was a mistake even suggesting it."

Kagome gazed at Ayame with guilt racking her being. 'damn.' she cursed mentally before sighing and shaking her head. 'Baby steps Kagome. Don't over worry yourself. Just…just go to the mall. No harm there.' She looked at Ayame and tried to breathe evenly. She needed to start thinking smart. As much as she might not want to admit it, Ayame knew a good chunk about her, and she didn't want to lose her as a friend. She never said she wanted to lose her.

Kagome fell back onto her back and gazed at the ceiling. If only she could go back to when they were kids, to when she was only burdened with training and when her father was still alive…

Kagome closed her eyes against the memories that ebbed to plague her mind. "Sure Aya, I'm still going to the mall, I never go back on a promise, right?" she joked weakly.

xxxx

Ayame turned and watched the girl in front of her. She defiantly changed. She had built a wall of stone and ice around her heart but still had feelings and cared for others rather she knew it or not. Ayame knew only a portion of Kagome's worries, Koga knew a little more, but this girl was a big mystery in all. No one knew her, not even Kagome herself. And she understood this by just gazing into her eyes, the confliction. One minute, she's warm and just slightly opening to them only to be slapped back into reality and slamming them out again.

Kagome continued to gaze into nothing. Ayame smiled. She was hot then cold, soft then hard. Was it truly that hard? Ayame could only wonder. But she knew one thing…

Ayame glanced over to Sango and Rin, and then her eyes floated across the room to Miroku, Koga, Sesshoumaru, and finally, Inuyasha. Those two had more in common and understood more with each other than even she and Koga could even begin to.

Her eyes then fell back on Kagome, even if the two didn't realize it, maybe…

Her eyes found Inuyasha once more. They could melt the ice, but maybe, just maybe, Inuyasha could tear down the stone – and vice versa.

Ayame grinned before returning to her stretching, joining Kagome again. The thought was a humorous one. But maybe she's just wishing again.

Maybe….

"What is it that you find humorous Ayame?" Kagome suddenly spoke, sparing a glance at the she wolf.

Ayame paused and blinked before sighing and pulled on a weak smile. "Just thinking, wouldn't it be funny if Rin actually topped Kikyo for captain?" she lied through her teeth.

Kagome paused, gazing at her for a fleeting moment before slowly turning away, continuing her stretching. "yea…" she murmured.

Ayame let her smile drop.

Just maybe…

The girls were now taking their run around the track, coach Abi choosing to stand right alongside the course instead of gazing from the window – which made more sense.

Kagome, however, ignored all of it and just focused on evening out her breathing and enjoying the pump of her legs as she ran. She was so engulfed into her inner mind that she didn't even take head to anyone around her, much less herself; nor did she actually care. 'not like I signed up for that repulsive cheerleading anyways' once more focusing on her body than her surroundings and thoughts, Kagome ran on.

Coach Abi watched her, her eyes taking in her posture, muscle build, pace, abilities and the way she ran! She effortlessly skimmed past even demons (mainly because their powers were forbidden – but still.) As for much as she could say, Coach Abi was very much impressed. Even while they were stretching, the flexibility she held, her controlled yet free posture, the way her body easily and fluidly bended to her will. It was something she hadn't seen in a while. She frowned lightly. Something she hasn't seen since Kikyo's freshmen and sophomore years.

Coach Abi glanced over to Kikyo. Instead of Kagome's fluid and free motions, and her dazed but knowing pace, Kikyo moved more with practiced skill. Something she was use to and focused skillfully on what she did and how she did them while Kagome just flowed and dashed while she went, all seeming new to her yet able to do it with ease. It was very odd yet refreshing to see. Coach Abi sighed and looked to her clip board. It was a shame Higurashi didn't sign up; the girl would defiantly give Kikyo a run for her money – that much was obvious.

Glancing back up, she spotted Kagome somewhat off to the side resting in the grass, already finished and without even a glisten of sweat marrying her brow. Coach Abi slightly raised a brow at this. Yes, Kagome would defiantly give Kikyo a run for her money, and possibly win.

xxxx

Kagome gazed up at the sky dazedly, not really paying attention to what she saw, yet focusing all her attention on sensing her surroundings: The lush hairs of the earth beneath her, the soft, slightly cool breeze nudging against her skin, deeply breathing in the welcomed air. 'It would be a nice time to meditate.' She mused mentally. Maybe it could help her energy flow more easily and ease her mind some, if not, distract her for a few precious moments. Though, it was quite funny that no one knew of her actually being a miko yet, with the acceptation of Koga and Ayame of course.

oh yes, and let us not forget that odd snake lover, principle Tsubaki shall we? Her hanyou half mused.

Kagome had to fight to keep a scowl from forming on her face and rolling her eyes. 'Must you always 'pop up' and remind me?! Must you always cut at my patience and peace?!' she snapped at it.

But she got no reply, its presence in her mind already gone, satisfied from ticking her off once more. Kagome let herself flop back into the grass, eyes closed and pinching the bridge of her nose to shoo away an oncoming headache. 'Kami I swear you act just like Inuyasha sometimes –' Kagome's eyes flew open as soon as the thought formed in her mind. Abruptly sitting up, she held her head in annoyance. Inuyasha of all people? What the hell!?

Kagome lied back in the grass and quickly shoved the thought from her mind. It meant nothing. 'Yeah, except that Inuyasha is a childish tease, jerk, and an insufferable itch that somehow manages to get under my skin!' Kagome slightly shook her head. 'wow, no wonder I compared it to him. He's annoying!'

But I'm apart of you. You're true form actually. So does that make you both alike in more ways than thought? Her hanyou half taunted. Kagome could feel its sly grin, it was irritating her.

Kagome's eyes widened and she angrily shoved her hanyou half in the back of her mind and locked it up. 'we will not speak of that again.' She mentally growled. How dare it compare her to him like that? They were both hanyous sure, but their personalities are way off the river bend. I mean come one, she doesn't act at all like him. She wasn't cocky, and rude, and – and such a tease! She didn't have that knowing smirk that seemed sensual and could make a girl weak, nor did she have his smoldering eyes that light up differently with each emotion, seeming to prod into one's soul with one withheld look – gah! What was she even thinking!?

Kagome slowly stood and watched as girl after girl finished their course, Sango seemed to have finish only a few seconds before Rin and Ayame, Ayame having to slow her pace to joke and laugh with the bubbly girl. At seeing them finish and trudge over to her, Kagome's face smoothed out of any emotion, not a trace of what she was currently thinking showing on her face. Hell she didn't even want to remember she thought it. In fact, she refused to claim those thoughts because they defiantly did not come from her.

She could hear her hanyou half faintly laughing at her and could feel the twitch of her demon's lips in amusement.

'fuck off' she hissed mentally and shut both out, no matter, they'll be back to bother her later. But for now, she had some sliver of peace. Turning to see all three girls walk over to her, Kagome's eyes involuntarily swept over Sango before glancing away just as quickly. She mentally noted Sango didn't seem as she did earlier, but she still avoided eye contact and seemed a little let down. Taking a second look, she looked a little nervous and fidgeted though she tried to hide it, she kept her respected distance.

Kagome said nothing and tuned in to Rin's excited rant. "-and then she was like, seriously giving me the evil eye like I was dating the guy or something! I just sit beside him, we're only partners! He's a nice guy and I admit, he has gorgeous looks – but I'm not trying to get with him!" Rin frowned and rolled her cinnamon-y doe eyes. "seriously, it's not like she's dating him, she acts like he's just something she can claim and that he's all hers." She scoffed and shook her head, resting a hand on her hip. "pathetic" she muttered.

Kagome's lip twitched, a smile wanting to form. "Who are you speaking of Rin?" she didn't really care to know, just asking for conversation, and to inch away from the slightly uncomfortable silence Sango was enduring.

Rin tuned to Kagome, her eyes brightening in realization that Kagome was actually standing there but went into telling anyways. "Oh just this random girl that seem to hate me because I sit beside her crush I assume. It's really childish if you ask me." She muttered.

"Hm, who's her crush?" Kagome continued to interrogate.

Rin smiled then. "Oh, it's Iyokma." She replied brightly, laughing lightly.

Kagome suddenly fell serious. Only Ayame seemed to have noticed Kagome's sudden change, it was barely noticeable but she saw it. Kagome fully turned to Rin. 'Iyokma?' she could feel her body tense at the sound of his name, instantly cautious. Glancing at Ayame, she saw her slightly suspicious gaze and quickly forced her body to calm. He was no where around, so there was no need to be extra cautious…yet.

Kagome shook off the feeling she acquired and smirked at Rin. "Another one of his fan girls I see."

Rin nodded and rolled her eyes. "yep." She popped the 'p' before Ayame grinned.

"I always thought Iyokma had a crush on our little Rinnie." She teased, pinching Rin's cheeks. Kagome admitted, she kind of thought that too upon meeting him, but you never know. As she seen and was told, he was just a shy guy.

Rin's cheeks gained a dusty pink before she swatted Ayame's hand away, frowning. "stop!" she pouted, crossing her arms. "I don't like him, where're just friends."

Ayame grinned cheekily. "Never said you weren't, but how can you not like a gorgeous hunk like that? Someone else in ya mind? Hmmmm?" she wiggled her eye brows.

"Maybe someone like Sesshoumaru?" Sango whispered teasingly with a grin, now joining in on embarrassing Rin.

Rin couldn't withhold her laughter, her blush still in place from her embarrassment. She held up her hands as if to shield herself from their teasing. "Guys cut it out! Iyokma and I are only friends and Sesshoumaru just took me in and made sure I was well taken care of. He's family." She smiled gently.

"She denies both handsome men!" Ayame declares dramatically, throwing a hand to her forehead and the other arm out stretched.

"What has become of thy fair maiden?! Is thy blind of their beauty!? Tis me cannot bare to watch-eth!" Sango declared just as(if not more) dramatically, throwing a hand over her eyes and falling over Rin.

Rin laughed and tried to push Sango off – and failing. "That was terrible dialog Sans, you guys are so dramatic!" she continued to laugh, the other two joining her.

Kagome looked from Ayame to Sango and chuckled inwardly, she wouldn't admit it, but seeing Sango lighting up a little brought a tingle of relief in her, lifting off some of the guilt that was building in her shoulders. 'one less thing to worry- be bothered with.' She told herself.

The sound of a whistle filled the air, making everyone pause and turn to coach Abi. It seems that everyone was done.

Coach Abi lowered the whistle from her lips and crossed her arms. "Okay, listen up! For today, we're finished! I will have the results for the cheering squad tomorrow when you come back in for class. I will also report the captain after telling who our members are! Are there any questions?!" she bellowed. She paused for a quiet moment then continued. "Alright then." She lowered her voice slightly. "You may return to the room and waste the last bit of the twelve minutes we have left. I will call when you are able to report to the locker rooms and go." She gave a sharp blow of her whistle. "dismissed!"

Rin's fingers tightened together nervously. "ooohh! I hope I made the squad – and pray that Kikyo isn't captain." Her nervousness vanished with the last statement.

Ayame and Sango walked alongside her while Kagome trudged behind a little. Ayame laughed. "you know, if she does, and the outfits do get any shorter – if possible – then do Sango still have to be out there with you or will Sesshoumaru just cross it all out?"

Realization dawned on Sango and a look a disgust crossed her face – it even took on a green tint. "Rin, you so veryOWE me!" she moaned, covering her mouth and holding her stomach as if she would hurl any moment.

Rin rolled her eyes at her. "a little drastically dramatic much?" she turned to Ayame. "Hm, don't know. If the outfits don't change in length then maybe I can still do it but if it do change then I wouldn't even do it myself. But you guys know I live for cheerleading, I just hope I have the option to do it." Her fingers ringed together again.

They arrived back into the room and Kagome placed a hand on Rin's shoulder, making the girl turn to look at her. "You'll get it." Is all she simply said as she passed by her without a look down.

xxxxx

Rin had paused in her steps to watch Kagome's back as she continued to walk away. Her head cocked to the side a little as her brows pinched together. "Hm, you know guys, I've been meaning to talk to you about Kagome." Rin spoke to the other two who had paused alongside her.

Ayame turned to Rin. "What do you mean?" Sango looked to the shorter girl as well.

"I don't really know but…" Rin shook her head in thought before turning and facing them. "Have you guys noticed that Kagome seems…" her words drifted, searching for the right word.

"More closed up, blocked, tense, cold even?" Sango offered in a grumble.

Ayame looked to Sango while Rin just gave her an odd look. "um…yea…" Rin nodded slowly. She frowned. "Sango? Did you and Kagome…?"

Sango shook her head. "No, well – not really? It's just that when she spoke to me, I noticed." She looked off to where Kagome sat on the bleachers.

"What exactly did you notice?" Ayame pressed.

Sango was silent for a moment. "It's worse than when I first met her." She turned her eyes to look at the two – both surprised.

"That day he practically dragged you into Mr. Myoga's class." Rin mused thoughtfully.

Sango nodded and then shook her head. "I don't know, it like… she's one person one moment and another the next. She's someone I can't even fathom to figure out and…" her shoulders sagged. "I don't know. Even with time." She looked to Ayame. "Will time even tell? How it's starting to look guys, I'm not so sure." She shook her head with a sigh before turning to head over to where the boys were, mainly, in the direction Miroku was relaxing on a bench with a water bottle and a towel slung over his shoulder.

"Wow even Sango is starting to not even bother with it." Ayame mutter under her breath. This was bad, defiantly bad. She needed to talk to Koga. With that thought in mind, she turned on her heel and marched over to where Koga was bench lifting and Sesshoumaru stood over him watching – and making sure the idiot don't overdo it.

Rin snapped from her thoughts to watch her before quickly following, she needed to ask Sesshoumaru about the preparations for the new band member anyway.

Sipping on a water bottle, Kagome casually watched the three interact with the guys. Her eyes skimmed over to where Inuyasha sat at some are weight machine, pulling it to clash together before letting it roll backwards again. He seemed to be concentrated on Rin and Sesshoumaru as they spoke of something – mainly Rin, before she jabbed a thumb at Inuyasha and glared at him – making him in turn to wince and look away nervously.

xxxxx

Kagome sat her water bottle down and stood, out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Koga had placed the weights down and him and Ayame was now walking a bit away while whispering something, stopped, then both turned to look at her.

'oh hell.' Feigning like she never saw them, she strolled over to where Inuyasha was. Upon crossing over, she heard whistles and hoots from the surrounding guys. She of course, ignored them, but even though Inuyasha eyes were closed, she could see his eye brow twitch in annoyance as he slammed the weights together with more force. Once she stood in front of him, he opened his eyes to look up at her, smirking. But just as fast, he looked past her and his smirk molded into a scowl with his eyes narrowed into a fierce glare. He paused his ministrations, a growl forming in his throat.

Kagome raised a brow in question but got her answer when she felt a hand smack her bottom from behind. She stood frozen, hearing a chuckle from behind her. "nice ass!" a cocky voice chortled.

Her eyes narrowed in anger. 'did that bastard just slap my butt – and then commented in such ways?!'

Rin gasped, while Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed slightly at the peasant male. Ayame glared at the boy while Koga's eyes was fierce, a growl penetrating low from his throat, ready to knock him to hell. Sango had narrowed eyes, seeming deadly while Miroku closed his eyes and shook his head sadly, his arms crossed.

Before Kagome could even move to strangle the unknown guy – and believe her, her was going to beg for mercy- a flash of silver crossed her vision and she turned in time to see that the boy's smirking face was met with a flying fist – sending him flying across the room and smashing into the wall, making it crack under him from the force and sending bits of chips flying in different directions.

Kagome slowly turned in shock to look at Inuyasha's back. He was still crouched, his hand that he used still balled into a tight fist as he breathed deeply, a growl emitting with each breath he released.

The girls moved from where the boy slid from the wall, stumbling to stand. If he wasn't demon, Kagome was sure that hit would have caused some serious damage. Looking at him, she quickly realized it was the same demon who challenged coach Totosai, that bastard!

The room was quiet except for Inuyasha's growls and the boy's labored breathing. Most gazed at the boy in shock or at Inuyasha with different expressions of disbelief, shock, some in fear, others with a 'what the hell?' look. Sesshoumaru's face showed nothing, his eyes only studied his brother. "Inuyasha." He finally spoke, his voice monotone. As if testing something. Inuyasha looked at him and growled in reply, making Rin step back some. Sesshoumaru's eyes dawned with a knowing before looking away to the boy that now stood, though limply, holding his shoulder while glaring at Inuyasha.

Kagome glanced at Sesshoumaru, then the offending demon before looking back to Inuyasha who slowly straightened. 'What the hell was that? Why did he…?' Kagome walked forward slowly, cautiously. When she stopped directly behind him, her curiosity heightened when he didn't turn. 'is he okay?' "Inuyasha" she called cautiously.

He didn't turn, he breathed deeply, his growls lowered before vanishing. Kagome stepped closer. "Inuyasha?" she called, worried. She touched his shoulder. At that he fully straightened there before turning to her with a sigh, his eyes closed before he grabbed her hand and slowly opened his eyes to look down at her.

A relief filled her at seeing his same amber orbs, but her eyes widened at seeing the smoldering look in them, they was dimmed to a pooling auburn gold. His face was emotionless, his hand still gripping hers. Everything seemed to slow, the only sound being the beating of her heart and seeing Inuyasha's eyes.

"TAKAHASHI!" coach Abi bellowed in anger, stalking over to him.

Kagome blinked from her stupor and Inuyasha's eyes seem to slowly clear as confusion started to replace as the world sped back up, the voices of others now reaching her as she became aware or everything around her. Looking to their hands, she snatched hers back, as if it burned her and cradled it to her chest as she slowly stepped back away from him. He just continued to gaze at her in confusion, his hand still suspended in mid air before he slowly lowered it.

Coach Abi reached him and rubbed his temples as if a head ache was trying to form. "Look, I don't care how or for what reason you did that to Edward." Kagome could hear a snicker at hearing the name; no doubt from Ayame or Koga. Miroku coughed to cover his smile but Sango chuckled behind her hand, not caring. Kagome could understand though, the name was ridicules. Coach Abi continued, ignoring to snickers. "But somebody better pay for my damn wall!" she glanced at the damage before her eyes came back with fierce to glare at Inuyasha.

Inuyasha looked to the wall calmly, his face blank before a small frown formed at looking to Edward. Coach Abi opened her mouth to get his attention but paused at seeing Sesshoumaru appear behind him, calmly knocking a fist across his head.

Inuyasha had a comical look of shock before scowling up at the taiyoukai with a growl, rubbing the spot where he was hit. Sesshoumaru ignored him and focused his gaze on coach Abi. "I apologize for Inuyasha's …damage. Though for a good reason, I can say he overreacted." He glanced at Inuyasha, his eyes glancing him over before turning back to coach Abi. "The cost of the damage will be covered." Coach Abi looked at him for a solid moment before nodding her head, glancing at Inuyasha –who gave a look so Sesshoumaru –and turning on her heel. Before they could even blink, she held Edward in a grip by the back of his shirt, a scowl on her face. "I'll teach you about being so cocky and irrespective to a female Mr. Koigekai." She practically growled before they were gone in a blur, leaving small flames of orange fire in her wake before they dissipated in thin air.

Kagome turned to see Sesshoumaru turning back to talk to Rin as if nothing happened and Inuyasha glaring at his back. She gazed at Inuyasha for a moment, her mind birthing questions the longer her gaze lingered. But she didn't dare wonder on them.

As if sensing her gaze, Inuyasha's body momentarily tensed before relaxing and turning to glance back at her. At this, Kagome quickly looked away. She couldn't help but wished that she held to ability to just vanish into thin air. Something about Inuyasha bothered her now – more than before. She spotted Ayame and Koga engaged into conversation again. She'd rather stand their interrogation than face Inuyasha at the moment. Call her a coward, she didn't care. Something told her that even getting slightly involved with what just happened would be trudging dangerous water. She faintly wondered why she felt this way. 'Was Inuyasha dangerous to me?' She shook her head. No. she will not linger on it for a second more. She started towards Ayame and Koga, but her escape was futile.

"Oi, Kagome."

Her body involuntarily froze at his voice and she cursed herself for not being quicker. Inuyasha said nothing more, only waited. She sighed silently before slowly turning –stopping halfway, just enough to see him.

His face held a mix of seriousness and confusion, his eyes glued to the ground in thought before raising them to meet hers. She had to refrain from looking away. He opened his mouth, his brows furrowing before pausing, then shutting it, his eyes narrowing and taking her in again.

Kagome tried to ignore her uneasiness and waited for him to speak.

He closed his eyes with a sigh and crossed his arms, his eyes opened again to look at her, his confusion vanishing leaving a gruff version of indifference. "Are you alright?" he threw out.

Kagome took in his face before raising a brow. "What, no 'wench' this time?" she joked – partially – to ease the tense air that seemed to have formed.

Inuyasha's stance faltered, blinking in slight surprise from her words for a moment before regaining his composure and slowly smirking. Making the uneasy knot in Kagome's stomach uncoil and vanish. She was grateful for it. "wench." He added. Though a chuckle was hidden in it.

Kagome relaxed slightly and gave a small hesitant smile. "I'm fine dog boy."

A whistle was heard. "Alright, get to your locker rooms, change, and get the heck up out 'ta here!" coach Totosai yelled. Students hurried to do as told, most already talking about what just happened and starting rumors.

Inuyasha and Kagome didn't move. He seemed relaxed that she wasn't harmed, not that she actually would be. He gave a jerking nod in confirmation. Kagome turned her back to him. A pregnant pause sounded before she secretly allowed a thankful smile. One she wouldn't allow anyone to see, ever. "thanks." She spoke; breaking the silence and making him focus his attention back on her. "I never knew I had a guard dog."

The amusement shown clearly in her voice made him roll his eyes, fighting a blush from tainting his cheeks. "keh! Whatever." He mumbled. Kagome continued to the locker room to change, behind her she could hear Kikyo run up and start a scene over 'her poor Inu-baby'.

Kagome rolled her eyes and snorted. Where was she five minutes ago?

xxxxx

Inuyasha watched as Kagome walked away without replying, allowing a smirk to adorn his face as she disappeared into the girls' locker room. She was something strange.

Inuyasha turned at hearing Kikyo run up, her face twisted into worry that didn't even reach her eyes. He frowned slightly. Kikyo, he'd have to tell her about the band soon. He inwardly winced. He was not looking forward to that. Looking over Kikyo, he couldn't help but wonder that something about her was off. In fact, he's noticed it for a while now – but never acknowledged it, didn't want to. Because no matter if she did seem different, she was still the girl he fell in love with three years ago.

His brows furrowed. But lately, something's been starting to bother him with each day that passed. Like an ebbing feeling in his stomach that demanded attention, something whispering in the back of his mind but always escaping grasp. What was it?

He watched as Kikyo wrapped her arms around him, he returned it, his frown deepening. She almost felt cold to the touch, her sent, as always, buried and lost under different types of perfumes that irritated his nose. He remembered when she once smelled naturally of only the warm autumn breeze in the summer. He missed it. He missed the warm and bright look in her eyes, making it seem like polls of caramel instead of the emotionless oak brown it was now. He missed the smiles that made his heart quicken and the warmth that came with just one touch.

Kikyo placed a manicured hand on his chest: nothing.

Inuyasha hugged her tighter as she rambled on about something about injuring himself. Even the tone in her voice was dulled in comparison to what it used to be. Her body had a sense of un-belonging in his embrace. It was other worldly almost, making him shiver at the feeling. This worried him.

Why? Why did it suddenly feel this way? What did happen to Kikyo over the years? The Kikyo he once knew?

He pulled back and looked down into her eyes. They were empty, and it clenched at his heart in his chest. She leaned up and brushed her lips over his, a faint sense a familiarly lingering there. Inuyasha eagerly pressed his lips against hers, not wanting that feeling to vanish. But it ran from him. Why couldn't it feel the same?

Inuyasha faintly registered her arms snaking around his neck, causing his heart to ache more in his chest.

No matter, he still loved this girl in his arms.

Another face formed in his mind's eye, causing a demonic growl to echo in his mind, as if it was trying to reach out for it.

Inuyasha's brows furrowed as he pulled from Kikyo's lips, his head turning towards the girls' locker room, a frown forming on his face. 'Kagome?'

His demon growled in reply; confusion filled his entire being at this, he ignored Kikyo's call for his attention.

'Why the hell did I think of her of all times?'

He didn't even want the answer.

Whew! And that was chapter 18! Now be good dearies and please review and tell me what you think! If you like, you can also inbox me with opinions or letters to your fav characters! I'm now starting fan mails where you can ask questions to your character (though nothing offending or rash) and they'll reply on the next chapter! Or just send love notes to the males. (or females for the guys) Lol ^_^. But any who, just review and I will update!

Ps) I won't make a routine of writing chapters this long. Others will be shorter (back to my original stop line) and yada, yada, yada. You get the point. Just to let you guys know! ;P

Till next time,

Jane! :3