Hidden Innocence
Chapter 21: The Banquet
-x-
Sesshomaru headed back to the office after his annoying meeting with Kaihei Furukawa. He was pissed off that he spent an hour waiting for that man when he could have been doing something more productive with his time. He scowled as he drove; that man really irked him. There was something about him that was dangerous and in the worst feeling possible. If he could avoid that man he would have but his company was the biggest import/export company in Japan and the higher up wanted to make sure that they dealt well with Furukawa Transport.
When Sesshomaru turned into the office parking lot he sighed as he got out of the car and pulled out his brief case. He still had a meeting to head, since Kenji was out of town with another project, and he had to make some calls before the banquet. He stalked over to the elevator and stepped inside once the doors opened.
"Oh Takahashi-san!" Sesshomaru looked down at the small woman dressed in a bright sea green blouse and a black pencil skirt. She was holding a bunch of files in her hand and had a very flustered look on her face.
"Imai-san what are you doing in the parking level?" asked Sesshomaru as he raised a brow.
"I was… ehehe… sorry I wasn't paying attention to where I was going and ended up in the elevator and so here I am," said the woman.
"Well where were you supposed to go?" he asked with disdain. He looked at her and all he could think of was that Nanami Imai was a little faerie, with her brilliant auburn hair that fell in soft waves just past her shoulders, meshing well with the bright colour of her shirt, and those deep green eyes that looked up at him with such kindness.
"I was supposed to find the copy room," she said with a bright smile. For a person who worked in an office she was always happy and cheerful.
"Well that is definitely not here; you should try the fifth floor," said Sesshomaru with a wry smile.
"Hai!" she said with radiant smile and a salute and then became serious. "I also have a file for you to look over it came in from the merger that you just completed last week. They have some terms."
"Well let's have it then have you looked it over already?" asked Sesshomaru as he held out his hand. Nanami shuffled through the pages and found the file. She gave it to him with a smile as he scanned it. His brows furrowed as he read over the papers and a slight frown creased his mouth.
"Is something wrong sir? The terms have changed from what we originally agreed on right?" she asked as she tilted her head to look up at him.
"Yes they're not following through with the decision that we came to. They want more from us when they're the company that was hovering over bankruptcy," he said with annoyance.
"Well maybe they found something that they didn't agree to," said Nanami with a frown.
"That's not possible we went over the contract with them until both sides agreed to the terms. They're just trying to get more out of us," said Sesshomaru with a deeper frown.
"Well I guess you need to talk to them," said Nanami.
"Of course that's exactly what I plan to do. Imai-san could you go tell Mitsuki to hold my calls until I finish this business up?" asked Sesshomaru.
"Sure thing Takahashi-san! It'll be my pleasure, what about your meeting?" asked Nanami.
"I have an hour before that meeting, that'll be more than enough time to figure out what those bastards want. Oh and Imai-san I expect you to be ready for that meeting this time," said Sesshomaru.
"Of course sir! I'll go find her," said Nanami with a bright smile when the elevator door opened at the fifth floor. Nanami left and found the copy room and handed her papers to an intern. Nanami was Sesshomaru's assistant and a damn good one too if not just a little spacey at times. She was actually a very competent worker but her free spirit seemed to surface more than Sesshomaru seemed to want. She smiled thinking about her boss; he sure was a nice sexy bundle of man. She just wished he thought more of her personally because she was sure that he thought she wasn't the smartest but she actually was though she didn't show it much.
Sighing Nanami headed up to find Sesshomaru's secretary Mitsuki to relay the information. Then she went into her own office and flipped through the notes that she had ready for the meeting that was to take place in an hour. Though she had everything memorized already she still looked through even though her mind wasn't into it. She was more busy thinking about the banquet that she was invited to as a representative of the company alongside her boss. A huge grin flashed as she started thinking about which dress she should wear and show Sesshomaru that she was more than just a worker but a woman who knew what she wants: Sesshomaru Takahashi.
-x-
A loud thud was heard and then a string of curses. Rin laughed knowing her brother was finally up. She checked the time and saw that it was almost one. "Mom how does he sleep this late?" asked Rin who had gotten up at seven that morning and full of energy even though she wasn't aloud to go to the banquet later on that night.
"Well he was out late last night. He had his show to put on, oh I wish I could go see it," said Izayoi with a regretful smile.
"Well if you went then you'd take all the attention away from Inu-nii! Then there wouldn't be any point well unless you wear the disguise again," said Rin.
"Maybe I will. I haven't had anytime for you kids in a while, since I'm between scripts I've got some time," said Izayoi.
"Well I can't wait! We should tell Kagome to come too!" said Rin.
"Yes of course," said Izayoi with a smile as she looked up at the rumpled form at the kitchen entrance. "How was your sleep honey?"
Inuyasha said something inaudible and wandered to the fridge to get a cup of OJ. Once he drank it down he walked over at his mom. "Mom what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be with Dad?" asked Inuyasha as he tried to wipe the sleep from his eyes. Izayoi just looked at her son and smile he was so adorable in the mornings because of his rumpled state. She missed seeing it.
"Your father said for me to stay here, and I'm not going argue with him today. I want to spend some time with you kids. Even though your brother is at work I still have you two," said Izayoi as she brought her hand up to his face.
"Mom I'm not a little kid anymore," said Inuyasha as he tried to push her hand away.
"I know, and it's a shame too. You were always such a cute kid but now you're a handsome man," said Izayoi with a smile when he frowned.
"Inu-nii is blushing!" said Rin with a laugh.
"Oh shut it, Rin. I am not blushing!" he said even though he felt his face heat up. Izayoi tired not to laugh and so she pretended to cough.
"It's okay Inuyasha you don't have to hide it," said Izayoi as she patted the chair beside her. He sat down and snatched an apple from the fruit bowl in the middle of the table. "So when is Kagome coming here to get ready?"
"Huh?" was all he said as he was about to take a bite out of the apple. "She's not coming here to get ready."
"Well why not?" asked Izayoi.
"I just assumed she'd want to get ready at her own house so I told her I'd pick her up at 5:30 so that we could hang out for a bit back here," said Inuyasha as he chewed.
"Oh well I guess that's fine," said Izayoi with a sigh.
"Oh come on mom it's not like you guys can't have your silly girl nights some other time," said Inuyasha.
"I know I just wanted to help get her all beautiful for you," she said with a smile.
"Oh yeah I know I want to be there when you see her I'm pretty sure your jaw is gonna drop," said Rin.
"You guys need to mind your own business!" said Inuyasha as he turned his attention to the apple trying hard to ignore his family.
"Okay fine we won't bug you about Kagome," said Izayoi.
"Yeah right like I'll believe you…" Inuyasha murmured and then got up from his seat. "I'm gonna go take a shower before I get ready."
"Okay," said Izayoi as she watched her son walk off. All she could do was grin at her daughter. Inuyasha definitely felt something for her god daughter and she couldn't have been more thrilled.
-x-
Kagome looked at herself in the mirror and couldn't help but smile at herself. Kagura had straightened her hair and then curled the bottoms making it flow down her back. Her make-up was done to accentuate the dress and her own eyes, making them pop. She was wearing the dress and twirled in front of the mirror.
"Oh Kagome you look absolutely beautiful. That dress looks amazing on you," said Kagura.
"Yeah I do, don't I?" she looked at her self again and smiled. "I can't wait to show Inuyasha!"
"He'll be floored for sure," said Kagura with a laugh.
"Yeah I hope so I can't wait till he gets here!" she said as she glanced at the clock. It was just past five he would be here in less than half an hour. Kagura looked at her granddaughter and saw something that she'd never seen in her before.
"Kagome…" said Kagura and Kagome turned to her grandmother. "You really like this boy don't you?" asked Kagura.
"Huh?" was all Kagome could say as she blushed. Yeah she did like him but that wasn't something she wanted people to know. "Why do you think that?"
"Just the way your eyes glimmer when you think of him and that smile. You really do like him," said Kagura with a smile. "Oh sweetie he's such a sweet boy, I really am happy for you."
"I never said I like him Gramma," said Kagome.
"Oh a woman who's been through that feeling can always see it in others, it's how a feel about your grandfather," said Kagura with a smile. Kagome let out a sigh seeing that she couldn't lie to her grandmother.
"Well I do like him, but it can't be anything like what you and Gramps have," said Kagome.
"Oh I wouldn't say that. You think about him when he's not around right?" when Kagome nodded she continued. "And when he's in the room your attention is solely for him right?"
"Yeah?" she let out a whoosh of air when she realized that those were all telltale signs. "Oh I actually do like him!" A dazzling smile appeared on her red lips. Kagura just smiled as she saw Kagome relish the thought.
"I'm glad you're happy," said Kagura. She heard a car pull into the drive and knew that Inuyasha was there. "Well I think your prince is here to take you to the party."
"He's early! Are you sure it's him?" she asked getting flustered. She ran to her bedroom window and looked outside and saw a limo waiting at their door. "Oh my god he brought a limo just to pick me up!"
"Wow it looks to me like he likes you just as much as you like him," said Kagura with a smile. When Kagome didn't move she just grinned. "How about I go downstairs and tell him you'll be down soon? It's always good to keep a man waiting just a few extra minutes."
"Yeah sure," she said distractedly as she looked at herself in the mirror. "I think I need to reapply my lipstick maybe I should change the colour."
Kagura gave a laugh as she put her hands on Kagome's shoulder. "Sweetheart you look beautiful there's nothing out of place just try to relax." With that said Kagura headed out the door and went to the stairs. When she got to the entrance way she heard the knocking at the door. She reached it and opened the door to a nervous looking Inuyasha. "Hi Inuyasha you're here to pick up Kagome. She'll be down in a minute."
"Okay should I wait outside?" asked Inuyasha as he rubbed the back of his neck.
"Oh no dear you come inside. I like the suit and that shirt is just the perfect colour," said Kagura as she looked at his ensemble. His hair was left loose cascading down his back over a crisp black blazer. Underneath the blazer he wore a hot red dress shirt that was the exact same shade as Kagome's dress. He looked absolutely handsome and the nervous demeanour suited him well. Just as well, thought Kagura seeing that her granddaughter was feeling the same way.
"Yeah Kagome asked me to wear the red shirt, she hasn't told me what she's wearing though," he said as he waited inside wanting to see Kagome.
"Well you'll be happy that she made you wait. You'll love it for sure." Kagura smiled when she smelled Kagome by the stairs. She turned around but Inuyasha already noticed and had his head turned in anticipation.
Then he saw her.
She was the most stunning creature he'd ever seen and his eyes couldn't leave her dress. It shimmered in the light and clung to her like a second skin. The colour was dazzling but she was even more dazzling. She had a shy smile as she walked down the stairs and it made Inuyasha want to run up to her and take her in a long and desperate kiss. He saw the length of her leg when the slit on the left side parted and his mouth started to water.
He didn't care. All there was was Kagome.
"So what do you think?" whispered Kagura as she watched Kagome come down.
"Absolutely gorgeous…" he murmured as he waited for her to come down. Kagura smiled that was the perfect thing to say.
"Okay well you two have fun I have some things to see to. I'll tell your grand father that you went with Inuyasha." Kagome looked at Kagura and got the underlying message and just smiled.
"Thanks Gramma!" Then she took the last step down and was standing in front of Inuyasha. He was still a few inches taller than her even though she was wearing heals and it appealed to her in ways she never thought it would. Kagome looked up into Inuyasha's dazed eyes and smiled. She held out her hand for him to take and the next thing she knew he grabbed it and pulled her into his arms and kissed her ravenously. When he let her go she was just as dazed as he was just moments ago.
"You look absolutely gorgeous, Kagome," said Inuyasha as he pulled back and took a closer look. His hands were still wrapped around her back and he could feel the bare skin of her back. He turned her around and grinned. "I am really, loving this dress."
"Yeah you should," said Kagome as she twirled for him once more. "Your mom picked it out for me."
"Well I'm glad she has good taste, now let's get going," said Inuyasha as he took a look at her and quirked his mouth in a smirk. "You may want to fix your mouth I think I messed it up a little."
Kagome pulled out a compact that was in her purse and took a look. She grinned and gave him an enigmatic look. She said nothing and pulled out her lipstick and reapplied it. Then she gave him a kiss, soft and quick before she walked past him. He followed her out like an obedient dog, no pun intended.
-x-
Sesshomaru was in his bedroom checking his ensemble in the mirror. He was wearing a crisp black tux with a silk grey dress shirt underneath. He looked at his reflections once more and being happy with the result he headed out. He had to go pick up his date for the banquet. He had to bring someone, it was his father's order one he knew was just pure mischief something his father was known for. So he invited Nanami Imai because he could qualify it as a date to his father and a business representative for his company.
As Sesshomaru headed down the stairs he saw his father talking on the phone. He was wearing a dark grey suit with a royal blue dress shirt. It suited his father well and he nodded to his father before he headed towards the front entrance.
"Sesshy are you leaving already?" asked a female voice from outside. Sesshomaru turned around and saw his mother standing at the foot of the steps looking as the day he first saw her.
"Mother you look beautiful," said Sesshomaru as he walked over to her and grinned down at her. She was wearing a dark blue gown that had a modest neckline and sleeves that clung to her arms like a second skin. The dress was tight around the waist and then fell listlessly down her body framing her legs which could be glimpsed between the low slit down her left side. It had a few gems adorning her neckline and waist. She looked elegant and matched her husband perfectly. Her hair was done up in a beautifully elegant twist that left her face inhibited and beautiful.
"Oh really, you don't look too bad yourself son. Are you off to pick up your date?" she asked with a knowing smile.
"You know that Imai-san is not a date she is coming to this banquet with me as a representative of the company in place of Kenji since he is in Hokkaido." His face looked grim.
"Oh I know I just want to tease you. But you do know that your father thinks she is a date under your own false pretences so he will definitely introduce this Imai-san as your date to any he can get his hands on. He seemed rather fond of this girl and I am quite excited to meet her."
"Well those two always seemed to hit it off when he came by they both have that annoying tendency to be too jovial for my own taste," said Sesshomaru with a grimace.
"She sounds like the perfect girl for you," said Izayoi and grinned when Sesshomaru flashed his teeth in annoyance. Izayoi knew the hurt little boy that he once was and saw him grow up into an upstanding man. Even though he grew up being loved by her and his father he still needed to be loved on the sole fact of being loved with no other reason than that the person loved him. She knew he thought she had an obligation to love him because she married his father but he was her son and she loved him unconditionally. He just doesn't realize it and so a lovely lady would be the perfect ticket for her son who always seemed to be stuck in his own domineering world. "Okay I won't badger you about it anymore just try to have fun tonight, okay son?"
She brought her hand up to his cheek and smiled warmly. "I will try to, now I should get going or I will be late," said Sesshomaru.
"Well get going then, we'll see you there okay?"
"Yes we should reach there around the same time, bye mother." Sesshomaru turned to head out the door when he sensed Rin up by the stairs he grinned and used his demon to jump up to the top floor and startled her.
"Geez! Sesshy! You scared me!" she wailed at him and let out a shudder.
"Well why are you hiding up here? It's not like you," he said as he bent down to look at his adoptive sister. She frowned and he swore he smelled the salty scent of tears. "Oh Rin don't feel sad."
"I'm not sad! I just had something in my eye," she saw the look in his eyes. "Honest I hope you have a good time I just wanted to see you all dressed up."
"Well here," said Sesshomaru as he opened up his arms in a grand gesture and caused Rin to giggle. "Sweetheart I'm sorry that you can't come but it's actually not all that fun, you should be thankful. Our baka-brained brother would trade places with you in an instant and for once he seems to be right. If I could I would stay behind with you too," said Sesshomaru.
"Really? I don't think Inuyasha would trade places with me not with Kagome going with him tonight," said Rin with a grin.
"Oh yes I almost forgot about that I wonder how our Kagome looks like," said Sesshomaru.
"Who me?"
Both siblings looked down to the entrance where their mother was standing and saw Kagome dressed in her red dress with Inuyasha standing beside her. They looked like quite a couple matching and all. "Whoa Kagome you look even better all dolled up! So did Inuyasha start drooling?" asked Rin and she tumbled down the stairs in a whirlwind.
"Oh thanks Rin and I think he was drooling a little," said Kagome with a brilliant smile.
"Hey I was not!" said Inuyasha hoping to sound indifferent but failed miserably.
"If you didn't brother then I'd think there was something wrong with you," said Sesshomaru suavely.
"Why thank you Sesshomaru you look rather dashing yourself," said Kagome with a blush when he took her hand up to his mouth and placed a chaste kiss on it.
"That's kind of you to say, now I'll be heading off I have a colleague to pick up so I will see you at the banquet," said Sesshomaru.
"Okay bye!" said Rin as she ran up to her brother that she idolized more than anyone else and gave him a tight hug. Sesshomaru softened as he wrapped his arms around his sister and hugged her back with warmth that Kagome didn't see in him before. Sesshomaru headed out after giving everyone a farewell.
"Well it looks like everyone is here," said Taisho as he walked over to the entrance. "Wow look at these beautiful women. Kagome my dear you look absolutely stunning and Izayoi… you've taken my breath away."
Rin and Inuyasha snorted with laughter. "Dad you're so corny!" said Rin as she laughed outright.
"Oh I thought it was sweet Taisho," said Kagome as she smiled up at her godfather.
"See good people understand a compliment," said Taisho as he took Kagome in an elaborate hug and gave her a smacking kiss on the cheek.
"You could learn from your father Inuyasha," Izayoi said in a teasing voice. Inuyasha frowned and looked over at Kagome. She laughed and held her hand out to him.
"It's okay Inuyasha you're charming in your own way, now how about we get going, bye Rin!" Inuyasha nodded as he headed back outside. Taisho took Izayoi's hand in his and said bye to their daughter before they headed out after Kagome and Inuyasha.
-x-
Bankotsu was sitting in his own limo with two of his brothers. They were, in the real world, known at the Furukawa brothers. They headed the transport company with Bankotsu as head and Jakotsu and Renkotsu were one position lower than their brother. Renkotsu was the one who actually ran the company while Jakotsu and Bankotsu lead their underground dealings.
"So brother are the Takahashi men going to be there tonight? The older son perhaps?" asked Jakotsu with a hopeful smile.
"Oh I'm sure Sesshomaru will be there he made sure that I remembered to be there, but I'm more interested in his younger brother. I am certain that he is the boy that Higa spoke of," said Bankotsu with a grin.
"Well as long as there is a hot man that I can look at I'll be happy," said Jakotsu with an excitement that disgusted Renkotsu.
"Seriously brother why do you let him out in public?" asked Renkotsu as he turned to his older brother. Bankotsu smiled at his younger brother. Jakotsu was his favourite brother and the only one he trusted. He would trust his brother with his life but that was not something that anyone would ever know.
"As long as Jakotsu gets the job done I don't care how he acts, you should feel the same since we are all the family we have right?" asked Bankotsu.
"Banky-kun! You do like me!" Jakotsu purred to him and slung an arm over his oldest brother.
"Yeah sure, you just keep to your side of the limo Jakotsu and all will be well," said Bankotsu as he pried his brother's arm off of him.
"I like that idea so who are we looking out for tonight?" asked Renkotsu.
"I want you to keep an eye on the Takahashi's, if Higa's report is correct and my assumptions are correct then Inuyasha Takahashi is the boy that was with Naraku's granddaughter and I want to know who she is, if possible get an introduction with Takahashi's party," said Bankotsu.
"Sure thing Kaihei-san," said Jakotsu with a giggle. He loved their alias names his own especially. Kouhei Furukawa was his own name in the outside world. The name amused him immensely because it meant Peace and Calm and that was the last thing he was. His mind worked in many complex ways and he almost never had a peaceful thought in his mind. It was the total opposite of his character but he played to it almost perfectly.
Renkotsu chose the name Shouhei because he also has a calm demeanour but his mind though thinks about many obscure things is still steady and calm. Bankotsu grinned, he liked to call the three f them the Calm Trio because of their aliases.
"Well please don't forget these names even though it's been drilled into your heads. I do not want to be exposed because of a stupid mistake such as that," said Bankotsu.
"But it wouldn't hurt us in any way if people misheard our names," said Renkotsu.
"Yes it does if this Kagome girl is Naraku's granddaughter and she came here with the Takahashi's then she would definitely know my name, and if she puts a face to it then I don't know how long it will be before I start getting amateur assassinations in my direction," said Bankotsu with a grin.
"Oh I would so look forward to that dear brother! Now I am tempted. It's been too long since I got my own hands dirty," said Jakotsu with relish.
"Jakotsu stick to the plan or I'll get my hands dirty with your blood you got that? Tonight is a mission. We need to find a way to get to Naraku and finish him off and if we can do that through his granddaughter then that's all the better," said Bankotsu.
"Hai, hai…" said Jakotsu with annoyance. He was tired of being the stand up businessman. He wanted to get in the heat of the action but after his accident at the last mission he went on Bankotsu banned him from any missions. His injuries were major and he almost died but still he was better than most of the idiots that Bankotsu sent out.
"Good now put on a smile we have arrived," said Bankotsu as the limo came to a stop and the three brothers stepped out as the Furukawa brothers of Furukawa Transport.
-x-
Sesshomaru was sitting in his car waiting for Imai-san to come out. He had called her from his phone and had no intention of going up to her flat just to pick her up. She let out a pout as she looked out from the window at the car that was sitting just in front of the entrance of her building. She had dressed up in her favourite dress that she had which was a forest green dress in silk that flowed down her body elegantly stopping just below her knees. Only two small straps were holding up the dress. There was small silver embroidery all along the dress. It was classy but still eye popping. She had her hair down in its natural tendrils with just a little bit of gel and hair spray here and there. She didn't want to look like she tried and so when she looked at herself in the mirror she was happy to see that her look looked effortless.
She grabbed her silver shawl and purse and headed down the stairs. As she descended she bumped into her neighbour. "Whoa Nami-chan is that you?" he asked with startled amazement.
"Yes it is," said Nanami with a laugh as she twirled for him. "How do I look?"
"Absolutely beautiful, whoever you're going out with is a lucky man. If only I had those feelings for women, you'd have been mine by now," said the man who had dark blond hair and green eyes like her own.
"Oh Daiki you kid, I'm nothing special," said Nanami with a grin.
"Oh sure you are sweetheart," said Daiki as he took her in a hug and gave her a friendly kiss on her lips. "Now go have fun tonight."
"Will do! Are you and Masa-kun going out today? I haven't seen him around in a while."
"Yes he's been out of town with some family stuff so he hasn't been around. So he's taking me out as an apology, isn't he wonderful?" asked Daiki with a smile. His boyfriend of three years was the best thing that ever happened to him other than his friendship with Nanami.
"Sounds romantic, I better get all the details when I see you next," said Nanami with a grin.
"Yeah and same goes for me especially if that hot man downstairs waiting in that black car was your date. You sure snagged a hot one there sweetheart," said Daiki with a wink.
"He's still dancing around the bait but I'm hoping soon I'll hook him in, now I gotta go but I'll see you tomorrow night? We can debrief our dates?" she said with a wink.
"Of course have fun!" said Daiki as he headed back to his own flat. Nanami went down to the black car that was waiting in front of the entrance. Sesshomaru looked just a little annoyed but when his eyes shifted over to her it seemed to soften just a little. She sat into the car and then his eyes narrowed again.
"Who is that all over you?" he asked with furrowed brows. He knew it wasn't any of his business but still the words tumbled out before he could stop them. Nanami raised a brow and then grinned. Thanks Daiki, she thought with a smile. He was getting jealous with just the scent of another man on her.
"Oh you're talking about Daiki? He's my neighbour, who likes other men. You might have noticed a blond man walk into the building?" she asked.
"Oh okay, well I just want to let you know that my father assumes that you are my date and if he smells another man on you then he may make a scene," said Sesshomaru with a stiff back.
"Oh okay then maybe you should kiss me," she said with an innocent smile. "You know to get the smell of you on me."
"I think not," was all Sesshomaru said before he started the car. When they reached the banquet a valet was already waiting for them. They opened the doors and the two got out. Sesshomaru handed his keys over and stood with Nanami standing beside him. He could still smell the scent of that man on her and it irritated his sense.
"So Takahashi-san is it alright to call you that still, since under certain pretences I am your date?" asked Nanami with a brilliant smile up at him.
"Sesshomaru is fine then, if it is alright to be calling you Nanami-san?" asked Sesshomaru politely.
"Sure but lose the professionalism, no one needs to know that we were friendly today, huh Sesshomaru?" she purred as her green eyes looked up at him with mischief. Sesshomaru looked down at her and his eyes softened. Underneath the incessant scent of that man was her sweet scent and it was slowly driving his mind to oblivion. "Sir?" she asked seriously when she saw his eyes and all the emotions that came up to the surface.
"Hmm…" was his response, as he felt his body moving on its own accord as if he was attached to puppet strings. He wrapped his arms around her waist and caressed it softly causing her mischievous eye to go dark and hazy with desire. He felt her arms snake up to his neck and soon it was engulfed by his hair. He bent his head down and pulled her up on her toes to meet him half way. He pressed his lips firmly on hers. It was a confident kiss and showed no wavering feelings; it was desire and lust mixed together.
Nanami felt like she was in heaven.
When Sesshomaru pulled back he looked down at her and his stern look came back. His hands were still resting on her waist. "There now my father won't get any bad impressions about our date," said Sesshomaru and then he let go of her waist and held out his arm instead. She snaked it through his with out a word and followed him towards the entrance way.
"Did you guys see that?" asked Inuyasha who was sitting in the limo waiting for the valet to be free.
"Yes I did, and wasn't I right to say that she was the perfect girl for our son?" said Taisho with a wide grin.
"I've never seen Fluffy kiss any girl! Let alone like that, he is so into her!" said Inuyasha with a laugh.
"He looked quite smitten just before he kissed her," said Izayoi.
"And that lady looked quite happy in his arms," said Kagome. "She is gorgeous, too!"
"Yes that she is," said Taisho. "Now let's get going I want to see what Sesshomaru has to say about that kiss when I ask him about it."
"Oh honey, please do not embarrass the poor boy," said Izayoi. Taisho just tapped the side of his nose and stepped out of the car and held out his hand for his wife. She just laughed and took it. Inuyasha followed his father's example and got out to hold a hand out for Kagome. She took it and stepped out of the limo and took in her surroundings. It was such a classy place with so many important people emerging out of limos and fancy cars.
"Wow, this is insane. I think I just saw that guy that acted with your mom in her latest movie, there are celebrities here too?" asked Kagome.
"I guess so; I've never been here before so I didn't know. Sesshomaru never really says anything interesting about the banquet. He just talks about different leaders and business people.
Like I want to hear about boring old people, he left out all the glamour," said Inuyasha with a grin as he looked over at his date. "I'm glad you came."
"I'm glad I came too! Can you believe that I'm here?" asked Kagome.
"Yeah I know, but I'm happy you're here. I wouldn't want anyone else as my date," said Inuyasha as he walked behind his father and mother.
"I wonder how many people here knew my mom," said Kagome with a sigh.
"I'll introduce you to some of them, when we get inside," said Izayoi as she looked over her shoulder.
"Okay," Kagome squealed with excitement as she walked into the building with the rest of the Takahashi's and were immediately directed to one of the head tables. Once they were seated servers came and offered them champagne and sparkling water.
"This is so glamorous," said Kagome as she took in all the people in their vibrant clothing.
"Yeah I know I've never been surrounded by so many people like this in one room," said Inuyasha.
"Yeah right, how can you not when your mom is an actress and your father is a politician?" asked Kagome.
"Well that's because our dear Inuyasha always made an excuse to stay home with Rin while Sesshomaru always did his duty to represent the family as best he could, and because Inuyasha was never really ready to mingle as uncouth as he was as a child. Right son?" asked Izayoi with a grin and Inuyasha just smirked back. He sure loved those days.
"Speaking of Sesshomaru where did that rascal get to?" asked Taisho, but before he could head out to look for his son he heard an acquaintance of his call him. He looked up and was taken into a big hug by a bear of a man. He got up resigned and put on his polite smile as he conversed with the man who was an important contact.
"Well since your father has been taken away by his peer maybe I should go find some of my own. I think I saw Hisaki outside maybe he would walk with me. He was after all my love interest in my last movie," said Izayoi with a grin.
"Oh please mom I don't want to picture you as a hot lady please!" said Inuyasha as he made a gagging face.
"Oh hush now you show your manners and be polite I don't want your behaviour being popped in the media tomorrow and shaming your father's name. I know you can behave if you want to and if you don't then I think Kagome can do it for me right dear?" asked Izayoi with a twinkle in her eyes.
"Of course Izayoi! I'll keep an eye on him at all times," said Kagome as she held onto Inuyasha hand. When Izayoi left the table Inuyasha turned to his date and grinned at her.
"Finally we're here alone just me and you," said Inuyasha as he turned to Kagome and linked his fingers with hers. "So what do you want to do? Touch elbows with the rich and famous?"
"I don't know, I think I need your mom there with me for that, how about we walk around and go find your brother?" asked Kagome.
"That sounds good to me. I would like to meet that lady who made Fluffy kiss her like that," said Inuyasha with a grin. He got up and held his hand out to hers pretending to be gentlemanly and only causing Kagome to stifle her laughter.
"Inuyasha you're not to call Sesshomaru any of those names!" said Kagome trying to sound like her godmother.
"Oh right, well lets go find my brother then," said Inuyasha as he strolled along, with who he thought was the hottest girl at the party, to find his brother.
-x-
"Brother I think I just saw one of the Takahashi's brothers walk in," said Renkotsu. There was a small murmur and many heads turned to the entrance as a couple walked into the banquet. It was Sesshomaru Takahashi and a small little pixie wrapped seductively in a forest green dress.
"Oh is it Sesshomaru! Where did you see?" asked Jakotsu with an excitement as he looked around to see him.
"Okay Kouhei you can go talk to him," said Bankotsu using Jakotsu's name and glanced over at the entrance. When his eyes fell on Sesshomaru's companion he definitely felt an interest with her being wrapped so enticingly in that nice little number. "You know what Kouhei I think I will go talk with Sesshomaru myself, you can have him once I've done talking with him and get to know who his date it."
"Oh come on Kaihei! I wanted him to myself!" whined Jakotsu with a frown.
"And you will once I have my time, now go see if the other Takahashi's have entered," said Bankotsu as he strolled off in Sesshomaru's direction.
Sesshomaru could feel every spot that Nanami touched him. The kiss still burned in mind and he couldn't get it out. He couldn't be thinking anything like that about her. She was a sweet and wonderful worker while he was in some way her boss. He. Could. Not. Have. Thoughts. About. Her. He clenched his jaw. Now that she had his scent mixed with her own she was even more appealing to him. He looked down at her and she grinned up at him.
The little minx was enjoying his hostility, he was sure. "Sesshomaru are you going to converse with me at all tonight or am I to just stand idly by your side?" asked Nanami.
"Oh I'm sorry Nanami-san," said Sesshomaru as led her to the refreshments at the back. "What do you think of the party thus far?"
"It's quite a soiree if you ask me, but please leave the formalities Sesshomaru. Or I'll just kiss you this time and make you so rigid that you won't utter a word," said Nanami. Now she was teasing him? How had she, gotten the upper hand on him, he wondered.
Well he could play that game too he decided. "Well maybe you should, because I will not leave my formalities." There was a certain scorn in his voice and it caused an appeal for Nanami.
"Oh really?" she asked as she raised a brow. She was a girl who took challenges head on and faced it with confidence.
"Yes, Nanami-san," he said with emphasis. She grinned then and grabbed him by the lapels of his jacket and pulled his mouth down to hers. She meant it to be a forceful kiss but he soon brought his hand up to her face and kissed her back. His body felt a pull towards her and it made him want to take her back to her apartment and ravish her. He heard her purr into the kiss and it just fired his own passions.
When Sesshomaru pulled back his eyes were heavy lidded and slightly aroused. "Well Nanami-san it seems that my ability to speak hasn't been altered," said Sesshomaru as he looked at her. "You on the other hand seem to be just a little out of sorts. Maybe you should just stand idly by my side while you regain yourself."
Nanami just stared at him with a grin and instead of saying anything just took his hand and linked her fingers with his. She went on her tiptoes and gave him a tender kiss. "I am not out of sorts Sesshomaru. I was just admiring you and may I say your kiss is very… exciting." She looked down at their joined fingers and smiled.
"Well aren't you a spitfire?" asked a male voice from behind the couple. Sesshomaru looked behind him and his hand squeezed Nanami's tightly. Nanami looked up at Sesshomaru and seen his severe face. He definitely didn't like the guy. Who he was she had no idea but she was sure she would find out soon enough.
"It's nice to see that you actually kept your word this time Furukawa," said Sesshomaru.
"Oh you hurt me Sesshomaru, I always keep my word, now how about you introduce us? It is rude for you not to," said Bankotsu as he looked at Nanami. She felt the hostile air between the two men and his gaze was not at all comforting.
"Oh yes this is Nanami Imai she is my assistant at the office, Nanami this is Kaihei Furukawa he is the head of Furukawa Transport," said Sesshomaru. Nanami smiled her feline smile. She heard the way Sesshomaru said her name and purposefully leaving of the san. He was showing that they had a deeper relation than just assistant even though that had yet to happen.
"Well it is very nice to meet you Imai-san," said Bankotsu as he held out his hand and she places hers in it. Bankotsu brought it up to his mouth and left a chaste kiss on it. The hand that was still in Sesshomaru's hand was getting tighter and this time it was because Nanami was squeezing it.
"It's nice to meet you too Furukawa-san," said Nanami. Her smile had faded as she looked at the man who had put Sesshomaru's guard up.
"Sesshomaru!" said a loud boisterous voice from behind the couple. Bankotsu narrowed his eyes on the two people who were approaching them. His eyes feel on the similar silver hair and amber eyes and knew that he was Sesshomaru's younger brother.
Sesshomaru let out a sigh and turned around to look at Inuyasha and Kagome. "Inuyasha you idiot father told you the rule of speech when here. No yelling half way across the hall." He narrowed his eyes at him and Inuyasha just raised his brow he was in no mood to be pissed after all he came all the way there to bug his brother about the kiss.
"Oh yeah sorry kinda forgot. I have something I needed to ask your friend," said Inuyasha with a grin as he looked over at Nanami. She smiled back at him and the four seemed to have forgotten all about Bankotsu who was watching Kagome with some interest.
"Do all Takahashi's have the luck of finding gorgeous women?" he spoke up so that all occupants in the group could hear.
"Yes pardon my manners," Sesshomaru said in a strained voice, "Kaihei Furukawa I would like to introduce you to my younger brother Inuyasha and his date for the evening, Kagome." He motioned his brother for the introductions. Kagome and Inuyasha nodded their heads at the man that they were introduced to. Sesshomaru saw Nanami standing there looking at the couple and then realized he hadn't introduced her to the others. "And while I'm at it Inuyasha, Kagome this is Nanami Imai. She's my assistant, and as father sees it my date for tonight."
"Gotcha," said Kagome with a smile as she turned her attention to Nanami. The other guy was giving Kagome a weird feeling. "It's nice to meet you Imai-san. Have you been working with Sesshomaru for long?"
"A few years actually, we're both fairly new but we're both making our mark, aren't we sir?"
"Yes I'd like to say we are," said Sesshomaru giving her the first genuine smile she'd seen thrown her way.
"Whoa no way, fl—" Kagome shoved her elbow into his stomach knowing he was going to call Sesshomaru fluffy, "I mean Sesshomaru smiled. Imai-san how did you get him to do that?"
Nanami smiled at Inuyasha and then looked up at Sesshomaru as she spoke. "I'd say that we have a mutual liking of each other."
"Well pardon my saying but you have some bad taste in men, my brother on the other hand has amazing taste in women," said Inuyasha with a grin. He saw his brother's jaw set. He felt Kagome pulling at his sleeve and grinned down at her. He was enjoying himself because he knew that at least for the time being he was safe from his brother's wrath.
"Well I'd say you're wrong there Inuyasha, because I've always had impeccable taste in men and I'd say your brother has been the best out of all of them," said Nanami with her feline smile. "Though I know he has amazing taste otherwise he would have passed me by without a glance for that owlish secretary he has."
"Mitsuki is an amazing worker Nanami, her appearance is not what we are looking for it is her brain and work ethic which for my standards is exactly what I needed," said Sesshomaru. Then he heard a cough from his right side and he saw Bankotsu watching the two ladies in a very distressing way. He was about to make an excuse to walk away when Bankotsu turned his attention back to him.
"Well Sesshomaru it's nice to meet your family, but I think I've stayed my welcome. I'll take my leave, it was nice meeting you three and hope to have a chance to getting to know you better," said Bankotsu as glanced at Kagome and held her gaze. She felt a shiver run through her as he bowed and then walked away.
"Well it looks like the banquet is finally getting underway how about we go find our table and then we can get this night over with," said Sesshomaru.
"Well let's get going I have to warn you though Sessh Dad and Mom both saw you before you entered the banquet, hell we all did and you'll obviously be questioned."
"Well that is none of their business, now Nanami shall we?" Nanami smiled up at Sesshomaru. Looked like he finally got hooked and she couldn't be happier. Their hands were still linked as they walked together. Kagome and Inuyasha smirked as they walked hand in hand right behind them.
-x-
Bankotsu walked back to his table with delight. He was a hundred percent sure that that was Naraku's granddaughter. Though Sesshomaru kindly forgot to mention her last name, Bankotsu was still sure. Just something about her look it reminded him of Kira Higurashi.
When he walked back to his assigned table he saw his brothers sitting looking rather bored. "So did you find out anything?" asked Jakotsu.
"As a matter of fact Kouhei I did. Sesshomaru's date is rather hot up close," said Bankotsu with a grin knowing that it would annoy his brother.
"Not the woman Kaihei, about Sesshomaru or anything about the other ordeal?" asked Jakotsu.
"Well I think I was introduced to Naraku's granddaughter. No I'm almost certain I was introduced to her. She looks just like her parents," said Bankotsu with a grin.
"Well then isn't this perfect, just point her out to me brother and I should be able to find out where she lives and all other minor details about her," said Renkotsu who finally felt like something interesting was going to happen.
"All in due time Shouhei, we have all night as for now let's settle down since our host seems to be starting the banquet," said Bankotsu.
"Right, well I guess after we can get started," said Renkotsu. They turned their attention to the man up at the podium and waited patiently for it to end.
-x-
"Well that was boring," said Inuyasha as the man finally ended and he received a smack from both his mom and Kagome. "What it was!"
"You try to remember your manners Inuyasha this is your father's night and we don't want you ruining it because of that mouth of yours," said Izayoi with her strict voice. Something Inuyasha rarely ever sees.
"Okay fine, geez." Taisho saw the pained look on his son and just grinned.
"Don't worry son I know I think it's boring too but what can I do? I have to deal with it and soon enough you will too," said Taisho.
"Yeah I know that's what sucks, so when are we getting some food? I'm starved."
"The announcement is coming up shortly," said Taisho as he looked around the table. His eyes landed on Sesshomaru and he grinned this was the perfect time to grill his older son. "Since we have time right now, Sesshomaru how was your trip here?"
"It was fine father, why are you looking at me like that?" asked Sesshomaru with a brow raised. He knew perfectly well what he father was trying to get around to.
"Oh just I thought I saw something as our limo pulled up into the valet area," he said with a knowing smile.
"Oh pray tell what was it?" Taisho smirked at the easy intro that his son just gave him.
"Well I saw a man, who looked almost identical to you, wrapped around a beautiful woman in a forest green dress, almost identical to the one that Imai-san is wearing tonight," said Taisho his gleam in his eye was so obvious that Kagome and Inuyasha were trying not to laugh.
"Oh really, well I guess our doubles must have been invited at this banquet too, right Nanami because I wasn't wrapped around you was I?" asked Sesshomaru with a smirk.
"Oh no not at all, it was me who was wrapped around you," said Nanami with a grin. She was rather enjoying Sesshomaru's family. They all broke out in laughter at that and Inuyasha swore he even heard his brother chuckle.
"Well I'll say, I'm really liking you Imai-san, the perfect woman for my son," said Taisho.
"I'd hope so sir," said Nanami as she looked over at the man that was brimming with happiness and handsome to boot. All the Takahashi men were gorgeous, thought Nanami as she looked over the three of them. The youngest had his boyish good looks, her Sesshomaru was stoic with a mysterious aura that attracted many to him, and their father was a genial man who lived life to the fullest from the laugh lines that were on his eyes.
"So you two were kissing then?" asked Inuyasha to keep the conversation going.
"Yes we were, and I was quite enjoying it too but someone kept stopping them," said Nanami as she looked at Sesshomaru. Then she blushed when she realized that she was talking to his parents. "I'm sorry if I sound too forward."
"Oh no dear you have to be forward with Takahashi men or they will keep walking. They don't like passive women trust me I had some practice with this one," said Izayoi as she looked fondly at her husband of about eighteen years now.
"Well that's good to know, I can already see that Kagome is working her magic on you Inuyasha," said Nanami as she looked at the younger couple. It was Inuyasha who blushed while Kagome smirked.
"Yeah he's been trailing after me ever since I laid eyes on me," said Kagome.
"Oh please that's not true… I just smirked at you and you started to get all nervous and speechless if I remember correctly."
"That is not how it happened! You said something insanely random that made me stand there speechless, baka. I'm not the type of girl to swoon over a guy who smirks at me," she said with a huff and caused the rest of the group to cheer her on.
"Go Kagome, that's what I like to see in a woman," said Taisho with merriment.
"Yes dear show Inu whose boss," said Izayoi with a laugh. Sesshomaru stayed silent but anyone who looked at him could see the laughter in his eyes.
"Well I'm really glad I came tonight and met you all. It's been such a pleasure," said Nanami with a brilliant smile.
"I can say the same thing with you my dear. You are after all the first woman that our Sesshomaru has ever introduced us to," said Taisho.
"Hey guys I think you're embarrassing him. Look his face is kind of pink," said Inuyasha as he looked at his brother closely. The rest looked at him and he looked just as stern as ever but if you looked very close you could see a slight trace of red along his cheeks. Could it be that he was blushing?
"You know I think I need some refreshments Nanami would you like something? Mother?" asked Sesshomaru as he got up.
"No thanks," said both Nanami and Izayoi. Sesshomaru turned around and left the table. The ladies fell into fits of giggles and the men just smirked after him. That was a first for Sesshomaru. There have been a few going around lately.
Soon after Sesshomaru came back the dinner was announced and everyone slowly collected a plate for themselves. Once the dinner was finished everyone was free to mingle. Music was being played and the dance floor was open to whoever wanted to dance. Taisho held out his hand to his wife and took her to the dance floor. It was his own little tradition that he started ever since they married. All the banquets he always started the dances off with her. Everyone always anticipated it and they always looked so elegant and beautiful that no one else ever joined on with them.
This year it was different. Inuyasha and Sesshomaru were there with dates and so they both took their dates onto the dance floor; three elegant couples. All Takahashi men with the women that they admired loved and were beginning to fall for. The rest of the crowd watched in awe as each couple danced around the dance floor with ease. Each couple matching to perfection.
It was quite a scene and Bankotsu and his brothers who were watching couldn't agree more. Bankotsu was grinning he was itching to walk up to Sesshomaru and Nanami and ask if he could finish the dance, but if he tried then there was sure to be a brawl. Although he was all up for a fight here was not the place. So he watched along with everyone else. "Shouhei that's her; if you haven't already surmised that."
"Yes I figured as much. I'll start on it tomorrow for sure."
"Good I'm quite happy coming tonight." Bankotsu leaned into his chair and watched the youngest couple closely.
Once they finished the dance Kagome was brimming with excitement. "Inuyasha, why didn't anyone else join in on the dance?"
"I don't know," said Inuyasha as he led her back to the table.
"That's because father and mother usually dance the first dance of the banquet alone, but this year we joined in. I guess it'll be a new tradition from now on," said Sesshomaru with a smirk.
"Well it was fun, wasn't it Imai-san?" asked Kagome.
"Oh yes it was, but please just call me Nanami, I feel so old when you call me Imai-san," said Nanami.
"Oh okay."
Once the Takahashi's all left the dance floor everyone else began to gather on the dance floor. Kagome, Inuyasha, Sesshomaru and Nanami were all sitting at the table when Izayoi and Taisho both came to the table.
"Okay Kagome lets go mingle. I want to introduce you to two ladies who were rather close with your mother. They all used to sing together," said Izayoi.
"Oh really?" she turned to Inuyasha who was smiling at her. "Inuyasha can you come with me too?"
"Yeah sure," said Inuyasha as he got up and said bye to his brother and his date.
"Well now that we are alone shall we go mingle as well? There are many big business men here that we can definitely get on their good side," said Sesshomaru.
"Well aren't you romantic, on our first date," said Nanami with a coy smile.
"Well you are really our representative, Nanami-san. I hope you haven't forgotten that," he said as he got up. Oh! Two steps forward, three steps back with him! Well she'll have to change that soon enough, she thought as she got up beside him. He held out his arm and she hooked her through his before they left to wander through the crowds.
Nanami and Sesshomaru met with many important people and mostly all of them were middle-aged men, who kept a lingering gaze on Nanami before they continued talking directly to Sesshomaru. It annoyed her to think that the men considered her as an object. But when she started talking they were surprised to see that she had a brain. They were all rather impressed with her and in made her feel amazing. She looked up at Sesshomaru after a rather long conversation on stock and trades. He was smirking at her, which she considered was his way of saying well done.
"So how was my business persona?" asked Nanami.
"It was rather brilliant. Though I already knew you were good otherwise you wouldn't be here right now," said Sesshomaru.
"Oh pooh, way to bring down my spirits," said Nanami as she pouted up at him. This time he chuckled and then it stopped because his mouth came firmly over hers. Again! He kissed her again and here he keeps saying things about being just a representative.
"You really are something rather different aren't you Nanami-san?" he asked with an adorable smile that made Nanami more weak in the knees.
"Yeah… I am do you like it?" asked Nanami just a bit breathless.
"I can say that I do. Rather refreshing," he said as he dipped his head down and kissed her again. She smiled into the kiss this time and wrapped her arms around his neck. She rested her head on his chest once they pulled apart and sighed. She felt content. Then as they stood there at the edge of the dance floor they heard three ladies start singing. Sesshomaru and Nanami looked up, still in their embrace, and saw Kagome standing dead center on stage with two middle-aged ladies.
They were singing an old song from the eighties. Sesshomaru looked closely at her and saw tears in her eyes. Those ladies must the ones that sang with her mother.
"Wow, Kagome sure has a beautiful voice," said Nanami with a smile. It touched her soul and made her want to weep.
"Yeah the poor girl lost her parents when she was a baby and those ladies up there with her used to sing with her mom. She's probably thinking of her mom right now," said Sesshomaru. He let out a sigh, she looked so lovely there but still so sad. The light was on her as she sang. The other two ladies just hummed along.
"Oh poor girl, I can only imagine how she feels," said Nanami as she held onto Sesshomaru tighter and breathed him in. She felt the sadness for the young girl who seemed so strong but only looking at her you could see the pain in her heart.
When Kagome finished the song she wiped away a stray tear and she smiled into the crowd who were swaying to the music that she created. She stepped off the stage and thanked the ladies who had sung along with her. Inuyasha was already there taking her into his arms and rocking her. She was breaking down. Her mother's presence in those ladies minds really hit her hard.
"Hey sweetheart we can leave if you want, it must be overwhelming," said Inuyasha as he held onto her tightly. She just shook her head as she pressed her face into the crook of his neck and tried to calm herself down.
"Sorry Inuyasha, I don't mean to blubber on you," said Kagome trying to laugh but it just came out as a hiccough.
"Kagome you don't need to apologize. You looked amazing up there I bet your mother would have been proud to see you up there. She probably did see you there," said Inuyasha with a smile as he rubbed her bare back.
"Thanks I wish she was here. I think this just hurts to know that she used to be here and I never got to see her," said Kagome as she sniffled and pushed away from him. She looked up at him and smiled but faltered again as the tears blurred her vision.
"I wish I could take away the pain, you've been through too much. I'll go tell mom that you need to go home and we can go back to my place or I can drop you off at your place," said Inuyasha.
"No… I'll be fine. I think I just need some fresh air," said Kagome. She looked into his amber eyes and pleaded. "Please Inuyasha, maybe we can go for a walk?"
"Sure if you're sure?" said Inuyasha as he searched her face to see if the was one hundred percent sure that she was okay.
"Yeah, come we'll just go tell your parents where we're going." Inuyasha just wrapped his left arm around her waist and grabbed her left hand in his. He felt like she needed to be held, to feel wanted and loved.
Once they talked to Izayoi Inuyasha led her outside. It was kind of chilly as they stepped outside. Inuyasha could see her shivering and he shrugged out of his jacket and wrapped her up in it. She looked at him and he smiled. "You looked cold," he said. She just smiled at him and walked over to the steps. She took a seat and Inuyasha followed. He brought his hand up to her shoulder and pulled her closer to him. She just let him lead her and rested her head on his shoulder.
They sat there in silence neither needing to say anything. Inuyasha rested his own head on hers as they looked out into the street.
-x-
Once the night was over Izayoi and Taisho found the kids still settled outside. They were huddled close together and their hands were linked. Izayoi walked over and stood in front of them and saw that they had fallen asleep. "Oh Taisho look at them, they fell asleep, and Inuyasha gave her his jacket," said Izayoi with a brilliant smile.
"They look so peaceful. It makes you not want to disturb them, but people will be coming out soon," said Taisho as he walked over to the kids and tapped Inuyasha on the shoulder. He groaned and shifted a little bringing Kagome closer to him. "Well he's still our stubborn Inuyasha that's for sure."
Izayoi let out a giggle as she shook him until he woke up. "Inuyasha it's time to go. You'll freeze out here," said Izayoi in a nurturing voice. He blinked his eyes open as he took in his surroundings. His parents were standing in front of him and she smiled at him.
"Mom? What's going on?" he asked disoriented.
"We're going home know. Kagome needs to be getting home too," said Izayoi. Inuyasha looked over at Kagome who was still sleeping resting on his shoulder.
"Oh we're still at the banquet? Did we fall asleep?" asked Inuyasha as he rubbed the sleep out of his eyes.
"Yeah it seems that way. Now how about you wake up Kagome and we'll get going. Sesshomaru is going to drop off Nanami and they come home," said Taisho.
"No she had a bad night, thinking about her parents. I'll just carry her to the car. She needs to rest," said Inuyasha as he got up and took Kagome in his arms. She didn't make a sound as she snuggled into Inuyasha. He looked down at her and smiled.
"Well that works, now let's get going," said Taisho as he saw their limo pull up. They got in and headed home. Kagome stayed asleep all the way home. Izayoi decided that it was such a bother to make her get up and so she called Naraku and told her that she would sleep over at their house. It took a bit of arguing but Izayoi won in the end and so the headed straight home to the Takahashi mansion. Inuyasha took her up to the guest room and settled her in bed. His mom went in with a spare change of clothes and changed her since there wasn't anyone else awake at the time.
Once that was all taken care of, Izayoi said good night to her son and headed to her own room. It was past midnight and she was tired. Inuyasha also went to his own room but not before taking a peek into the guest room that Kagome was sleeping in to see if she was sleeping peacefully. She looked content and so Inuyasha went to his own room to change and hit the bed.
-x-
Sesshomaru and Nanami were almost back to her apartment. Nanami was almost sleeping but she tried to keep herself awake. Sesshomaru took a side glance at her and saw her head dropping. "You can fall asleep Nanami I'll wake you up when we get there," said Sesshomaru. That woke her up and so she looked over at him. She brought her hand over to his and held onto it.
"I'm fine," said Nanami with a smile.
"Are you sure you look tired," said Sesshomaru.
"Yeah besides we're already here," said Nanami as she saw her apartment building come into view. He parked the car and this time he got out and opened the door for her.
"I'll walk you up," said Sesshomaru as he held her hand. She complied silently as she walked beside him. Her body stuck to his side. When they got to her door she fiddled to get her keys out and went to open the door. Once she heard the lock click she went to turn the knob. Then she stopped herself and turned to look back at Sesshomaru.
He was so big and dependable the way he was standing behind her so protectively. His gaze was so warm and safe. She smiled as she took a step towards him and brought her hands up to his neck and pulled him closer to her. She brought her mouth up to his and pressed her lips to his. He responded in kind and tasted her sweet taste in the tender kiss. She broke it this time and then looked into his eyes and smiled.
"Spend the night…" she murmured as she kissed his once more quickly on the lips.
"You're making it easy, but I better not. You need to sleep and if I come in then I don't know if you'll get it," said Sesshomaru as he leaned closer to her and rested his head on hers and sighed. "You really are killing me here Nanami."
"Then just come inside," she said as she kissed him again.
"No you go inside and I'll go home. I'll see you tomorrow at work," said Sesshomaru as he kissed her once more and then turned to leave.
She was still standing there watching him leave as he walked around the corner. She let out a dreamy sigh as she walked into her flat. Her progress with Sesshomaru was getting better, still at a slow pace but she wasn't complaining. All because of her neighbour she was able to kiss him, not once or twice but a handful of times and every time they did it sent a delightful shiver up her spine.
She couldn't wait for work the next day. She ran to her window and looked out at the car that was parked where it was when he first came to pick her up. He was standing against the car and looked up at the building. He saw her standing by the window and she smiled at him waving. He smirked and gave her a nod before he got into his car and drove home.
Wishing for once he didn't have a sense of propriety and respect for rules that he was taught by his mother so long ago.
-x-
A/N: Well this chapter I've been dying to write for so long so I'm so glad I finally finished it! It's quite long but I hope you all liked it. There was a lot that happened and it might seem a little confusing in the end part of the banquet, or a little rushed but that was only because I didn't want to add every part of the banquet. I hope you all like the fact that Sesshy found a girl for himself. I thought it was only fair since even his little sister who was only in high school had a boyfriend. Well please tell me what you thought! Cause I really would like to see how this chapter was for all of you who read it! Thanks for reading!