Conceit and Preconception

by Kaoruhana

A modern take on an old classic: Pride and Prejudice. In which four couples learn about the ups and downs of falling in and out of love. Loosely based off Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." Takes place in a college/ post-college setting.

3. Part III

A/N: So, here it is, Part III and the final piece of Conceit and Preconception. The story has come far and I'm super proud of it and this chapter! And now that that's out of the way I can finally focus on the other two pieces I promised to get done! So yay- another story done :D

Kagome smiled as she left her room and locked the door. She'd been in London for a little over three months now and she had to say she loved it! Every week it seemed she was getting to know more and more about the city and it's amazing history. She did occasionally meet Ayame during the course of her time in London but Ayame was busy with her job at Oxfam so she hung out more with her roommate- a girl from Singapore named Reena. Nowadays, it wasn't uncommon to find her with Reena at the Queen's Walk on Friday nights. There was something mesmerizing about seeing the Thames, the Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge all from one central location. Still holding a smile, she joined her roommate and the rest of the international students tour group downstairs for their four-day trip into Kent. They were to visit a few large castles and country estates nearby during the four-day easter weekend. Since most of the international students wouldn't have anywhere to go the program allowed them to take this tour as a fun trip if they opted to do so. Kagome was excited about this- she had been since she'd found out they were to visit Wentworth Estate in Kent. She knew that Sesshomaru's grandparents were quite rich but she never knew that they came from a peerage; his grandfather was the Earl of Kent.

When she had first learned of the tour, she had done some research and stumbled across the page about the Wentworth Estate on Wikipedia. The current owner, Fitzwilliam George Wentworth was the fourteenth Earl of Kent and just so happened to be Sesshomaru's grandfather. She'd learned that the Earl had three daughters and as a result his eldest grandchild- in this case Sesshomaru- was to inherit the estate. While she thought it was stupid that the males could only inherit, she did finally see a new side of the young heir. His mother was the eldest daughter and the darling child of Kent; she had been courted by the Prince's younger brother but had turned him down for Sesshomaru's father. She was also beautiful and a kind soul but she was like Kagura- having been raised up in wealth she only knew that lifestyle and society. She wasn't spoiled but she lived in high society and as a result she had passed that trait on down to her son. Kagome bit her lip as she came to stand next to her roommate. If only she'd realized things about Sesshomaru sooner- it was true he was prideful but maybe just maybe she should have seen it from his perspective- she didn't know anything about the society he came from so why did she expect him to know hers?

"Kagome?" Reena asked carefully noting her roommate's sullen expression. "Is there something wrong?"

"It's nothing." Kagome answered thinking back to the night three weeks ago when Reena had found her mooning over Sesshomaru's letter and demanded an explanation. "Okay so it is." She amended feeling guilty for lying. "Sesshomaru is the Sesshomaru Wentworth- we're visiting his Estate in Kent tomorrow."

"No!" Reena's shocked gasp turned a few heads in their direction but the two girls easily brushed off prying eyes. "When did you find this out?"

"Wednesday night, I was just looking up the places we'd visit when I stumbled across the Wikipedia page. As far as I know, he won't be there but I'm just not sure what to do. He probably hates me for so many things and I don't know what I would do if I were to run into him again."

"Don't worry." Reena assured her placing an arm around her roommate's shoulder. "You know that Mrs. Gardner and I will be there to take care of things if anything happens okay?" Kagome nodded feeling a little better knowing that the tour head- Mrs. Gardner who was the liaison for the international students- and Reena would help her if needed. Still, she couldn't help but worry. She had come to realize the error of her ways- even if some of that error was really a fault of both her and Sesshomaru- and she briefly wondered what she would do if she ever saw him again. Old wounds wouldn't be soothed instantly but maybe just maybe he would still be willing enough to listen to her and be her friend?

"Everyone!" The melodic voice of Mrs. Gardiner sounded. "I think all of us going on the trip are assembled here so if we're ready, we'll take the District Line to Waterloo and make our way to Kent via the Southeastern Train service. Remember we're to take the 5:30 train." Nodding, the group of seven, one of whom was Mr. Gardiner the designated driver for the tour, followed her out the door and into the London streets. Their manor trip was about to begin.

Three hours later Kagome unpacked the last of her essential toiletries and sank onto her bed. The trip was starting tonight- they had just arrived at a lovely inn and were spending the night there before going out on Good Friday to see the nearby manors. Of course, out of the first three manors they were visiting tomorrow, one had to be Sesshomaru's. She didn't know how to feel about it. Should she be excited to get it out of the way or should she mourn the fact that it was one of the first few and thus she was going to leave so soon? Grumbling would get her nowhere she realized flushing at Reena's exasperated glare.

"Kagome! I know you're worried but please, don't fret! If he really cared for you he wouldn't mind your visit. Please, for me, cheer up? I'd rather not have a gloomy roommate for the duration of the trip." Kagome bit her lip guiltily. She'd been so lost in her own thoughts she hadn't realized the adverse affect she was having on the others had she?

"I'm sorry. I promise to be better."

"Good! Now, I just so happen to have the new Emma Watson movie on my Netflix account. Want to watch it?" Giggling, Kagome nodded and the two girls spent time watching the movie before going to bed a few hours later, or in Kagome's case at least trying to go to bed. She lay awake for hours imagining horrific scenarios about the Wentworth Estate visit the next day. Finally, at nearly two-thirty in the morning, she succumbed to her tired eyes and fell asleep only to wake up five hours later to begin her day of touring.

At breakfast Reena noticed her tiredness. Kagome hadn't grabbed one but two cups of coffee and a rather small breakfast compared to her usual large breakfast routine indicating her lack of appetite and desire to sleep longer. Laughing Reena poked her in the side. At Kagome's glare she whispered in her ear about the ibuprofen stashed in her purse for any oncoming problems. Needless to say Kagome was grateful for it. The headache she would get from her lack of sleep would most likely appreciate that.

A few hours later Kagome looked on at the gorgeous moat of Leeds Castle from the shore across the water. She couldn't believe she had just been inside something so pretty. The castle was gorgeous with its yew tree maze and its rich historic significance. She wondered how many men from the Commonwealth it did host during World War II and why the late Lady had chosen to give it up to the Trust. Still, she was amazed when she left and couldn't help but sneak glances at the castle as they walked away to get lunch at a local eatery in Leeds. The giddiness she felt from the small trip had her in better spirits compared to the morning when she had been stressed. Even Mrs. Gardiner's rush at lunch to make sure that they made it to the Wentworth Estate on time hardly phased her. It wasn't until they were back in their rented and chaperoned van that Kagome suddenly tensed and the earlier unease came up to the forefront.

"Is something the matter Kagome?" Mrs. Gardiner asked having seen her unease all morning. She wasn't sure what to do and wondered if she had to contact anyone to help Kagome feel more at ease. It was after all her duty to make sure that all the students on the trip had a wonderful experience.

"She's just nervous." Reena answered leaning across Kagome in the backseat where the three were seated.

"Nervous but whatever for? I'm from the area myself and I know that the Wentworth family is lovely. Why I even watched Ms. Rin one summer for babysitting money." Kagome's eyebrow lifted and without thinking she asked her next question.

"You know Rin?" Mrs. Gardiner was shocked but answered her.

"Yes, I'm from Chillingham where the Estate is located and know the family quite well. Mrs. Taisho- the late daughter- used to send her children there every summer. Sesshomaru was a little stiff but he loved his sister and really they were quite wonderful children growing up." The sudden sadness in Kagome's face made Mrs. Gardiner reach for her charges hand.

"What's wrong dear?" Kagome didn't know what to say. Should she tell her guide the truth or just manage with a half-lie. Finally, she decided to let her know the truth. Mrs. Gardiner was close to the family after all and it would probably be better if she knew. Chancing a glance at the front to make sure that the other three students were occupied she spoke.

"Sesshomaru and I- we are friends. He wanted to pursue something more but I chose not to." A brief silence reigned before Mrs. Gardiner replied.

"Darling, he's a lovely young man. I wouldn't worry too much about it if I were you. He does not go quickly into relationships, if what I remember from his childhood friendships is true, so he still cares deeply for you I am sure. Don't fret, it will all be right."

Kagome and Reena were shocked into silence. How had their chaperone known that Kagome cared about him? Did she overhear them talk about it? Both girls shared a silent look of understanding. Either way Mrs. Gardiner stated it, she knew now, and it was time for the conversation to be put to rest. They were driving up towards the estate after all.

The estate was beautiful as they drove up with rows of tall majestic alders, birches, beeches, and yews marking the path. They led to a tiny woodland beyond their roadside borders and framed the path to a towering Georgian Estate. It was grand but not huge and its lawn well-maintained and cared for. Mr. Gardiner parked in a tiny parking lot to the right after a long five minute ride up the driveway which Kagome noticed had enough room for ten cars. She eyed the other side of the entrance and was pleased to see a garden of flowers. There were two kinds neatly split with a path in the middle- on one side Kagome saw bushes with flowers that reminded her of bellflowers, on the other side she recognized pale violet foxgloves. Seeing her companions depart, she did so as well and had to admit that the tiny entry garden was much better to take in when she was in the sunlight.

"Mrs. Gardiner!" An elderly woman exclaimed as she walked down the stairs of the Georgian Estate. "Why I never thought you would visit me again after your marriage!" It was well known that Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were newlyweds having just been married that past December. Kagome thought it was rather sweet to see the two of them interact but was intrigued at the elderly woman. She wanted to assume that this was Lady Wentworth of Kent.

"Lady Wentworth!" Mrs. Gardiner exclaimed proving Kagome's earlier guess to be true. "Of course I would visit! This time I brought with me the international students from LSE as promised." The lady nodded taking Mrs. Gardiner's hands fondly and giving them a pat.

"Lovely. Now, I'm sure you are famished and I believe it is time for tea. I had extra prepared today and the Earl is waiting for us. Would all of you like to join us in the red drawing room?" Mrs. Gardiner smiled and assured Lady Wentworth that the invitation would be accepted.

As they walked inside the Lady pointed out a few things such as the Van Gogh paintings that were collected by her late father in-law and on display in the blue and white drawing rooms, the Gallery Room where all the portraits of the Wentworth Estate inhabitants were housed, and the stately library that housed collections of Jospeh Conrad, William Pett Ridge, and Dornford Yates. Of those, Kagome only knew one- Joseph Conrad- but Reena was impressed. Having gone to British Boarding Schools all her life, she was highly interested with the wealth of influential British authors in the collection. The lady led them to the room next to the library where Kagome found stacks of books arranged neatly on two bookcases that stood at opposing corners of the room. She walked closer to one and read the titles of a few books: Wuthering Heights, Frankenstein, Jane Eyre, Great Expectations, and Madame Bovary. The latter surprised her as it was in French. She didn't realize that her perusal caught the eye of the Earl who stood from his seat in a cozy armchair to join her.

"It seems young lady that you have taken a fancy to these books." Kagome looked up from the bookshelf and flushed when she realized she was talking with the Earl. How did one address someone like him again? Fumbling she came up with a response.

"I've always loved reading Lord Wentworth." He noticed that she wanted to say something more but was hesitating and decided that perhaps an anecdote would ease her spirits.

"My eldest grandson used to spend hours in here with me when he was younger. He would pull out books and we would read them together. His favorite was Nicolas Nickelby which he took with him to London but the one we read most often Cricket on the Hearth is still here." Kagome let loose a small grin thinking of how the Sesshomaru she knew would seem to enjoy those books. The Earl noticed this and wondered himself- did this young lady know his grandson? It might be possible but that was rare. He was spared from saying anything however, when two figures walked into the doorway that the group had just come in from.

"Kagome!" A teenage voice yelled out causing the young woman to turn and pale. There standing at the threshold of the red drawing room stood Sesshomaru and Rin. Hesitantly, Kagome gave Rin a smile and said teenager walked towards her with her brother following. The rest of the room had gone silent silently wondering how Kagome knew these new guests.

"Do you know this young lady Rin?" The Earl asked with narrowed eyes. He wondered if this was the girl that his grandson had talked about- the one whom he loved and who had taught him a thing or two. He glanced at Sesshomaru and smirked seeing the surprise and hidden longing on his face. So she was the one; it looked like this visit was going to be quite interesting.

"Yes, I met her at Hojo's wedding this summer. She also studied with Sesshomaru." The Earl and Lady nodded.

Mrs. Gardiner who was sitting with her husband, the Lady and three students in one of the two seating areas wondered what she could do to make the situation a little better. She didn't want to highlight Kagome's importance suddenly but she did wish the poor girl didn't have all eyes on the room looking at her. It was however the Lady who alleviated the situation by telling Rin to take a seat and serve tea. Nodding, the group left standing sat at the second seating area and gathered around for tea. The Earl took an armchair and Rin did as well. There was one chair which Reena, who shot a quick glance at Kagome, occupied leaving Sesshomaru and Kagome to share the couch.

"How are you?" Sesshomaru finally asked as Rin handed him his tea. He had to admit, meeting Kagome like this was unexpected but wonderful. He thought he would never get to see her again. She accepted her cup from Rin before answering.

"Good and you? Miroku mentioned something about you having a job now?" Sesshomaru nodded taking a sip once his grandfather had and watching Rin serve biscuits. She skipped his plate just as he wanted and moved on to Kagome's.

"I do. I'm a junior Associate at Barclays in London. And you- how are your studies progressing?" The questions were subtle and safe and Rin, who had heard about the sad break of the relationship from her brother, was eager to let them have their privacy. She looked earnestly at her grandfather who only laughed and began to engage her and Reena in a conversation effectively giving Sesshomaru and Kagome the privacy they needed.

"I admit," Sesshomaru began once half his cup had emptied, "that I never thought I would see you again."

"Me either- well actually I assumed I would see you at Miroku and Sango's wedding- those two are so in love it's kind of obvious he's just waiting for the right moment to pop the question. But how's London? Is the balmy weather treating you well?"

"It is. I did not know that Miroku and Sango were dating again." The statement was said softly but Kagome heard the hurt in his voice. She gently placed a hand on his arm not realizing how her action had garnered the looks of those present.

"He hasn't really told anyone who doesn't go to school. He and Sango had a huge fight and made up in September and they are taking the relationship slow. He hasn't even told his family yet about the two of them getting back together. I only know because well I live with them." At Sesshomaru's raised eyebrow, she had to stifle a giggle.

"Ever since they began dating again he spends so much time in the apartment. It's funny actually- we renamed our couch for him."

Sesshomaru's laughter was a balm to Kagome's nerves and for the first time since seeing him again she felt calm and happy. She loved to see that happiness on his face, even if it was short-lived and it made her insanely happy to have been the one to put it there. The sudden revelations caused her to flush and stare down into her tea cup. Love- she loved him and it took her this damn long to realize it. She'd been told that it came to people at the oddest times but really, to have realized so suddenly startled her. But maybe, she thought, looking back up at him, I've been in love with him all along and just not realized it.

"Are you all right?" He asked wondering if the blush on her face was his doing.

"Yes." She looked around the room and her eyes landed on the connecting archway that led this room into the library. Seeing her gaze, Sesshomaru spoke.

"Would you like to go there?" Kagome bit her lip as she peered at him. Were they allowed to?

"Can we? I am here on a school trip after all." She answered slowly. Mrs. Gardiner eyed her from across the room and gave Kagome a small smile. She wasn't sure how to interpret it- did the chaperone approve of her interactions?

"I don't see why we cannot- I am to inherit this estate after all." He silently cursed the words that came out of his mouth but Kagome only giggled at them making him wonder what had changed in the months since their encounter. She normally would have hurled an insult at him for statements like that.

"You have a point there." She looked at Mrs. Gardiner again and stood excusing herself. "I'll ask her if you can take me for a private tour."

Kagome walked across the room and came to gently stand by Mrs. Gardiner who immediately introduced her to Lady Wentworth. The Lady shook Kagome's hand and asked her if her grandson had sent her over here with a purpose in mind. Embarrassed at having been caught, Kagome could only stutter her response and was pleased when instead of probing her further both Mrs. Gardner and Lady Wentworth allowed the two to leave the drawing room. Once they left the room, Sesshomaru didn't take her immediately to the library instead taking her towards a garden. She let him lead her insanely curious as to where it was they were going.

"This Kagome-" Sesshomaru stated "is my grandmother's pride and joy- her rose garden." Kagome's eyes opened in amazement and she eagerly looked around in amazement. She recognized a few varieties of roses- the pale rose that England was famous for, the beautiful red roses that were famous as symbols of lovers, the pale white ones that were delicate. She looked at Sesshomaru and found herself flushing as she realized that she was the object of his gaze.

"Why did you bring me here?" She asked slowly trying to figure out where their relationship was now. Were they friends? Or did he want something more? Sesshomaru seemed to hesitate in his answer and she hated it. She knew that the last time they met, things had been terrible but she wished that he would at least tell her if he wanted to be friends or more. His arm, which had been entwined with hers, suddenly fell and she suppressed the sigh of disappointment she wanted to let out. She wasn't desperate enough to chase after a man who obviously didn't want to be with a girl who had spurned him so harshly.

"I thought you might enjoy the gardens on one of the few sunny days we'll have this year. What do you say?" Letting out a little laugh of amusement Kagome smiled. Since she'd been in England she was sure she could count on her hand the number of sunny days- that meant days with nary a shower in sight. She walked forwards into the garden and turned to look at him when he remained stationary.

"I thought you were giving me a tour?" This time, Sesshomaru with a smile of his own joined her and they walked about the garden together.

It turned out that Sesshomaru's prediction was wrong and jinxed their outdoor excursion. It was only fifteen minutes into their garden excursion that the sky darkened with clouds and five minutes later, the rain began to pour. Running inside, they both found themselves soaked enough that they needed a change of clothes. Without preamble, Sesshomaru lead her to the rooms he knew to be his and offered her a change of clothes. Blushing, Kagome did as was told simply because she couldn't afford to get sick with a cold on this trip- she had too much at stake. Sesshomaru took their clothes and flagged down a maid. She looked at him curiously since she noticed Kagome's clothes in the basket as well and Sesshomaru answered with an embarrassed air. When he returned inside the room, he had to restrain himself from showing her just how he felt.

Kagome looked divine as she fingered the hem of the shirt that Sesshomaru had let her borrow. He'd given her a pair of his basketball shorts as well, but the shirt was long enough, and the shorts loose enough even with the drawstrings pulled that she looked extremely tempting. Sesshomaru cleared his throat trying so hard not to imagine what she would look like sans the shorts. He had to get his wits together and perhaps encourage her to spend the night at the estate.

"The clothes will be dry in an hour; did you have anything important to do the rest of the day?"

"Well," Kagome began slowly, "We were going to visit at least one other estate today before we returned home. I suppose we'll be leaving soon for that." The open-ended answer left a lot of hope for Sesshomaru and without thinking about it, he blurted out his next question.

"Do you want to stay here and spend the night?" Seeing her expression, he hastily tried to redeem himself. "I just meant that uh, it's been a while since Rin and I have seen you so I thought that you might want to spend some more time with her." The and me was left out of his statement but it was obvious what he meant and Kagome didn't know how to feel about it. On the one hand, she was really ecstatic about the invitation but on the other hand she was unsure about the status of her tour group. Was she allowed to leave them so suddenly?

"Um, it's not that I don't want to-" She began slowly playing with the hem of the shirt once again, "but I don't know if I'm allowed to leave the tour group. Plus, my luggage is at the inn anyway." Sesshomaru nodded and then walked towards her. He sank onto his bed and gently shook some still wet bangs out of his eyes as he tried to find a way out of this situation. In the meantime, Kagome thought about a lot of things. She had to admit that seeing Sesshomaru's expression when he noticed she had worn his clothes made her feel extremely confident. She wanted to spend time with him so bad and show him that she still cared, hoping that maybe, just maybe, he cared as well judging by the expression he had on his face earlier. So, decision made, she called his name.

When Sesshomaru turned towards Kagome, he was surprised to see that she was so close to him. When exactly had she moved and why? As her arms came up to thread around his shoulders he hoped but waited with bated breath to see what she would do. Her face was inches away from his and he saw her eyes dart to his lips and back before she finally gained the courage to bridge that gap and connect their lips. The connection sent a shock through Sesshomaru but he wasn't sure how to respond. Did this mean she liked him? A sharp tug on his hair was all the further encouragement he needed and moments later, he was kissing her back, this time taking the upper hand. He was finally getting to kiss the woman that he loved and he was damn happy about it so he was going to take it all in.

"What does this mean?" He asked pulling away when they both were out of breath and panting. He was hoping and praying that the kiss meant she was finally reciprocating his feelings. She blinked and he smiled seeing her dazed expression and happy to have been the one to put it there.

"Kagome," he began as he pulled her onto the bed to sit next to him, "I still love you. I know that I am possibly the last man on earth that you want to see but I don't care- I just, I want to know, will you give me a chance?" Kagome lifted a shaky hand to her teary eyes. Damn these stupid emotions and her stupid pride. He lifted a hand up to her face as well but she shook her head and he placed it back at his side silently dreading her answer.

"I love you." The words, once said, were sharp and poignant, cutting through the room. But they were a soothing balm to Sesshomaru's soul and as he looked into Kagome's teary face he knew what the answer to his next question was going to be.

"Spend the night here with me?"

"Yes."

The next morning, Kagome carefully tiptoed down the stairs of the Wentworth Estate and tried to find her way to the kitchen. It was of course difficult to find, but once she was on the ground floor, the smell of coffee lured her into the relatively correct direction. At the threshold, she waited and debated stepping inside. Lord and Lady Wentworth were already in the kitchen eating breakfast. The thought of them knowing what had happened between her and Sesshomaru last night mortified her. They were his grandparents for gods' sake! Ashamed, she was about to sneak back up the stairs when Lady Wentworth looked up and saw her. Flushing, Kagome walked into the kitchen slowly and tried to quell her blush as the two elderly people in the room gave her an appraising look.

"Good morning." Lady Wentworth greeted as she indicated a seat to her right. "Won't you join us for breakfast?" Kagome took the given seat, murmuring a hurried good morning in response, and numbly nodded as the maid asked her what she wanted for breakfast not really paying attention to anything. Why had she decided to come downstairs again?

"Kagome," Lady Wentworth stated appraising the young woman, "if you don't mind me asking- what exactly is the relationship between yourself and my grandson?"

Kagome flushed not sure what to say. Lady Wentworth however, smiled. Her grandson had told her and her husband about the vexing and charming woman he had fallen in love with. When she had realized that the young woman was Kagome she was thrilled and happy to see that her grandson was finally able to have a small measure of happiness in this affair. She didn't necessarily blame Kagome for the heartbreak that was caused nearly a year ago, her grandson after all was at fault as well, but she did want to make sure that Kagome noticed that there was a lot more to Sesshomaru. Kagome meanwhile, thought about what to answer. As she noticed the expression on the Lady's face however she relaxed. It was the same expression her mother had on her face when she had told her about Inuyasha. Feeling much more at ease now that she understood where the lady was coming from, she answered with a strong voice.

"He's the man I love." The words were hesitant coming from her mouth, especially since after last night, when both she and Sesshomaru had finally shared their feelings . It finally felt normal to say it and she wanted to say it over and over again so she did.

"I love Sesshomaru, and it would please me greatly if you allowed us to be in a relationship." The lady and lord smiled and motioned towards the door where an excited Rin and an ecstatic Sesshomaru were standing and waiting for entrance. Blushing now that she saw the unexpected visitors, she eeked out a greeting and motioned to the empty seats nearby. Judging by the knowing grin on Rin's face, she knew that the girl knew what had happened between Sesshomaru and her last night. A grimace passed Rin's face as she took a seat across from Kagome. She had just realized that Kagome had slept with her brother- and her happiness soon was replaced by apprehension. Thinking of her brother's sex life was not in her plans. Kagome grinned noticing Rin's grimace and Sesshomaru let out a booming laugh. It was a sound that the house hadn't heard in a while and it made his grandparents happy when it reverberated around the room.

"What are your plans for the day?" Lady Wentworth asked as she began to clear her and her husband's plates.

"I was thinking of giving Kagome a proper tour of the estate after I pick up her luggage." Sesshomaru answered. The blush that coated Kagome's cheeks was vivid but the lady brushed it off.

"That's right, we can't have the poor girl traipsing around in your clothes. However Jack, the Wilshire boy who tends the garden now, he's running over to town anyway so he can pick it up. I'll phone the inn and let Mrs. Gardiner know to have it ready." At the confused stares, she sighted and stood up, dropping the plates off in the kitchen sink before leaving the room presumably to do just what she'd earlier suggested. Mr. Wentworth nodded and excused himself leaving the three young ones to finish breakfast.

"You know Kagome, I might have a dress or two that fits you- I think we're relatively the same size. Would you like to wear that while we wait for your clothes to arrive?" Sesshomaru wanted to object, seeing her in his clothes instilled some sort of manly pride in him. But he also knew that it was only fair to let her wear actual clothes. And, as he remembered from last night, seeing her legs was definitely going to be worth it.

"And what are you smiling at over there mister?" Kagome asked noting his amused expression. Sesshomaru had the decency to flush- just a little- as he cleared his throat and answered negatively. Around Kagome, it would be easy to tease, but with Rin around- he wasn't sure just what was okay and what wasn't. The two girls laughed at his expense but breakfast resumed quietly until both the females disappeared to Rin's room to find clothes.

Two hours later found Kagome lounging in the library curled up with Sesshomaru's favorite book. He was sitting behind her on the couch they were sharing and had his head resting on her shoulder as the two read Cricket on the Hearth. They had just begun the second part of the book when Kagome felt Sesshomaru press his mouth to her neck. She had been mortified when she'd worn Rin's dress earlier and found evidence of the hickeys that her lover had left last night. Rin had offered her a cardigan to use as a cover up but Kagome still felt self-conscious. And she was not going to let Sesshomaru get away with giving her another one- this one in much plainer sight.

"Not so fast there." She stated maneuvering out of his hold. He let her go trying hard not to let out a disappointed sigh. Seeing his expression Kagome couldn't help but sigh. He looked so put out, almost like a little kid who'd had his lollipop or favorite toy car taken away. "Oh, you naughty man, just don't leave me any more hickey's okay?" Sesshomaru's eyes glinted mischievously and Kagome giggled before leaning in for a kiss. Seeing as how their newfound passion had yet to disappear they soon found themselves entangled in each other- Kagome laying down on the couch and Sesshomaru leaning over her. A sudden noise caused them to break apart. Flushing, Kagome hastily sat up and tried to bring herself together as she noticed Rin in the doorway.

"Really you two, be more careful would you? What if Grandmother and Grandfather had found you instead of me?" Sesshomaru had the decency to look guilty before he asked- in a much rougher voice than usual- what Rin had come for.

"Jack's come back with your luggage Kagome. It's up in a guest bedroom for now. Would you like to change?" At the last sentence, Rin looked pointedly at Kagome's neck. The cardigan she had let her friend borrow was draped over the back of the couch's armrest and Sesshomaru's gift to his lover was now once again clearly visible. Hastily, Kagome slipped the cardigan before leaving to follow Rin. Once the two left, Sesshomaru let out a breath and ran a hand through his hair before smiling. He may look goofy, but he was a man in love; it was excusable for now. Standing, he shelved the book away before leaving the room and seeing what his grandfather was up to.

Sesshomaru easily found his grandfather; he was with his wife and the two were strolling along the same garden path that Sesshomaru had taken Kagome on earlier. He wasn't sure if he should interrupt and hesitated about going inside. Lord Wentworth however, turned and noticed his grandson beckoning him over with a smile.

"And what brings you out now Sesshomaru?" His grandfather asked politely taking a seat on the nearby bench. Sesshomaru and Lady Wentworth followed his example as Sesshomaru answered the question.

"Kagome and Rin disappeared since it seems her clothes have arrived. I was merely wondering if there was anything I could do in the meantime." Lady Wentworth laughed and gave his shoulder an affectionate pat.

"So young and in love. It's such a lovely thing to see." Sesshomaru blushed but didn't do anything to deny it; after all what was there to deny? His grandfather however continued with the questioning.

"Tell me though, Kagome's tour group is leaving tomorrow night to go to the city. Are you going with her or are the two of you travelling by yourselves on Monday?"

"I'm not sure, I'll ask her later today and let you know." Sesshomaru knew he was going to try to convince her to go with him on Monday. He had a car that he had driven here and while Rin would be an addition to their trip, if he timed their departure just right he and Kagome could still enjoy a little bit of the Monday afternoon before parting ways. Yes, that sounded splendid. Now all he had to do was get Kagome to agree.

Kagome sighed as she left her classroom and entered the main quad of the campus. She was done, her finals had just finished and she was now able to do whatever she wanted for an entire week before she left to go back home. The thought made her happy, but also a little sad. She and Sesshomaru had talked about it, what it meant to go back, and they had both agreed to try to have their relationship continue. As it was, he had given his company notice a week ago that he was going to leave in a month and take over a branch of his father's old company- a pottery and design manufacturer in Japan- in July. As she walked towards the street and the coffee house where Sesshomaru was patiently waiting she turned on her phone and raised an eyebrow at the amount of missed calls and texts she had from Japan. Because it was so expensive to call from Japan Kagome usually called home. And any interaction she had with Sango was usually through e-mail. But here, she saw three missed calls from Souta and two from Sango. Sango had even left a voicemail and Kagome quickly opened her inbox to hear it fearing the worst. The people she knew in Japan wouldn't call her like this unless they had a really good reason. She quickly crossed the side of the street and listened to Sango's message.

"Kagome! Where are you and why won't you pick up? If you are taking an exam then damn it call me right after. Kikyo's missing and Inuyasha can't be found anywhere! I hate to think the worst but I think that whatever he did to Rin is the same that he's planning on doing with Kikyo! Please, call your mother she's a mess! I'll help how I can but can you maybe book an earlier flight? Call back ASAP!"

Kagome had just entered the café and Sesshomaru saw her. He noticed her distressed expression and was by her side in seconds taking her in his arms and asking her what was wrong. Kagome was incoherent, she couldn't and wouldn't respond and was devastated by the news. It hadn't even sunk in fully what had happened and she knew that Inuyasha was involved. Unable to do anything but feel helpless for a few moments she threw her arms around Sesshomaru and began to sob. The man in question quickly shot the barista a look. He and Kagome frequented the coffee shop quite often since their trip to Kent and the barista gave him a nod. Knowing that his orders would be taken care of properly Sesshomaru left the establishment half-dragging Kagome with him as he hailed the first taxi he saw on the side street. The cabbie looked on confused at the two before Sesshomaru glared and gave him an address.

"Holland Road Kensington." The cabbie balked at the address, only the richest men could even think of living in Kensington. Knowing that the man probably wanted to get to his house as fast as possible, the man quickly drove making the normally fifteen minute ride a ten minute one. When he got there, the cabbie was surprised at the change he received. He called after the man but when the man disappeared, he instead walked into the building and towards the concierge desk. The man at the desk looked up and the cabbie quickly handed him the extra change with instructions on who to give it to before he left.

When Sesshomaru arrived at the third floor, he quickly adjusted his hold on Kagome who had by now stopped crying but was still leaning on him for support. Unlocking his door, he toed it open with his foot before ushering the two of them in. In the entire month and a half that Kagome and him had been dating she had never been to his place. This was usually because he picked her up and took her out and with both of them being busy; Kagome preparing for finals and him finishing his last projects before the move; they hadn't had time to think about her spending the night. Ushering her to his sofa, he sank them down and gently eased her away from him so that he could look at her.

"Kagome, love, what happened?" Sesshomaru generally used her name only, unless he wanted to tease her at which point he called her a variety of names. This endearment she knew was a special one and hearing it from his lips made her let out a small smile. It made her feel a little happy to see how tender and worried he was.

"I got a call from home." Sesshomaru nodded but failed to see what the phone call had to do with her sobbing. At his encouragement, Kagome decided to continue.

"Kikyo ran away and Inuyasha isn't there either. It's likely that the two of them ran away together and-" She choked back a sob as she looked at her lap and wrung her hands together. "Just knowing that she's out there and that he can do whatever he wants to her is so scary Sesshomaru! I don't know where she is!" Taking her hands in his Sesshomaru brought her closer. He could only imagine how Kagome felt. He remembered the day he had gotten the phone call from the police station. Back then, at least he knew where his sister was. Still, not knowing how she had ended up there or what her condition was had terrified him. He rubbed soothing circles onto his girlfriend's back as she clung onto him for support and sobbed once again. He let her cry for a few more minutes before he heard her sobbing subside a little into silent crying.

"We'll find her Kagome. Come on love." He gently coaxed her into looking up at him and placed a quick kiss on her lips before standing and going to his kitchen. He wanted to make Kagome tea but while it was being made he decided it wouldn't hurt to pour her a glass of alcohol. Placing a glass of scotch in front of her, he left to the kitchen again to begin making the tea. He didn't know if Kagome wanted the alcohol but he knew that in a situation like this he would have needed it. It wouldn't hurt to give it to her, he thought as he left back to the kitchen. As he busied himself with making tea, he heard Kagome walk in behind him. She set the barely touched glass of scotch next to him and wrapped her arms around his middle.

"Thank you." The words were whispered but to Sesshomaru they were significant. In all the time he had known Kagome, she had been a strong individual and been there to pick up the slack that others wouldn't. She was a hard worker who hated to ask for help. So the fact that here she was thanking him for the tiny solace of comfort he offered made him feel like a king.

"It is no matter. Do you know what you will do now?" He asked quietly as the tea kettle whistled. Kagome shivered against his back as she felt the vibrations made when he spoke. Getting closer to his body, she answered him.

"I need to call Sango and my mother and tell them that I got their message. After that, I guess I'll try to exchange flights so that I can leave earlier. I don't think Mrs. Gardner will mind if I tell her."

"Hn." Gently, Sesshomaru took her hands and moved her out of the way as he turned off the stove and brought the tea over to the sofa again. He lived in a tiny two bedroom apartment in Kensington. It was slightly expensive but he had inherited the property from his mother who had been given the property as a wedding gift. Now, he paid the utilities rent to his grandparents- a hefty £75 a week- but it felt like home and reminded him of his mother. She'd often stayed here when he was young and visited London.

"You know, this is a really pretty home for a bachelor." Kagome remarked snuggling into his side when he sat down. The apartment reflected his tastes somewhat from the glass coffee table to the sleek brown leather sofas. Yet, Sesshomaru wasn't one for yellow floral curtains or Monet paintings both of which she noticed.

"It used to be my mother's." Sesshomaru answered softly. "She gave Rin her apartment in Chelsea- that was a gift from my father to her when they married. This was a gift from my grandparents on their wedding day."

"Oh." Kagome didn't know what to say to that, so she merely focused on drinking her tea. Sesshomaru had made a Darjeeling blend today she realized as she sipped the warm aroma and felt calmer than before. She still worried for Kikyo but she felt more coherent now. The two sat there drinking tea together in silence until Kagome's phone rang again. Hurriedly untangling herself, Kagome flipped it open after haphazardly placing her now empty tea cup on the table.

"Hello?" She asked breathlessly recognizing her brother's number on the caller-id. Sesshomaru watched as her expression paled and the worry became apparent on her face.

"Is mama going to be fine?" After getting a positive affirmation she barked out some quick orders to her brother about what to do- take care of her mother and have the police search for Inuyasha. Taking that as his cue, Sesshomaru took their empty cups to the sink and came back this time with his laptop. It usually stayed at home when he was at work anyway.

Five minutes later Kagome hung up the phone and found Sesshomaru searching for tickets online. She paled as she realized what he was doing- booking a ticket for First class on the next British Airways flight leaving for Tokyo at eleven the next morning. She had enough time to go pack quickly, hoping she didn't forget anything before she left!

"What are you doing? I can't afford that!" She hissed at him as she tried in vain to stop him from booking the ticket.

"But I can." Sesshomaru answered her as he shooed her away. "Now, when we came home I dropped my wallet off on the kitchen counter, do you mind getting it for me?" Kagome didn't move but when Sesshomaru looked at her she reluctantly stood. His eyes were hard and there was an edge to his voice; he wasn't angry at her but at Inuyasha she realized. Knowing that no matter what she did he wouldn't budge she left and returned with his wallet moments later. Five minutes later her tickets were booked and she began to voice out her more pressing predicament.

"Sesshomaru- it's six in the evening now: how will I pack everything with me?" She asked panicking as she stood.

"Pack what you need, the rest we can store here." Kagome stared at him mouth agape at what she had just heard. Here, at his place? But how? Sesshomaru pointed to a room that she noticed around the corner. "That's an extra bedroom. You only brought clothes and souvenirs didn't you? We can house whatever you deem isn't strictly necessary and I'll bring it back with me when I come home in a few weeks." Kagome wasn't sure; was this okay? But as she thought about her options she realized this was one the best one for her. So she agreed.

Three hours later a tired Reena collapsed onto Sesshomaru's sofa with Kagome. When the couple had walked into the dorm room looking flustered Reena knew something had happened. She was quickly briefed on the situation. Considering that she had finished her finals as well, she agreed to help her roommate pack and clean what she could before they left. Now, everything was ready. Inside Kagome's large suitcase were clothes and a few souvenirs that Reena had suggested she take with her. It would help her family think of something happy for a moment she reasoned with Kagome. The rest of her clothes and items- books, including her worn down copy of Pride and Prejudice were sitting in another suitcase and box in Sesshomaru's room. Sesshomaru had offered to feed them at his place and walked back out from the kitchen with three plates and glasses all neatly arranged. The pizza box, and garlic bread on the side, were on the coffee table. Reena vacated her seat on the couch to take a seat on the floor while Kagome helped him with the plates. Within moments, the ravenous three of them were eating dinner.

Reena had left a little before ten thirty and Sesshomaru- who rarely used his car- had offered to take her home in it considering the time. Knowing that her roommate was safe made Kagome happy as she cleaned the kitchen. Sesshomaru had told her she didn't have to but she had insisted on it and he had reluctantly agreed. Now as she stood at the kitchen sink washing his dishes she couldn't help but think this was right. She liked the simple domesticity of the job and wished nothing more than that Sesshomaru was here with her. It made her feel, as odd as it sounded, happy to cook and clean with him. Laughing to herself, Kagome rinsed the last dish off and placed it on the drying rack before drying her hands. She walked back into the living room and sank into the couch as she thought about what to do now. Packing had helped her mind ease somewhat but now that she was alone again she wondered what to do about Kikyo.

She had told Souta earlier that he needed to find Inuyasha and she could only hope that her hint at his narcotic past was being utilized. She hated to think of her sister, all alone and drugged up. How had she escaped her mother's watchful eye? Her eyes drooped slowly and she stifled a yawn as the energy used on the day's events slowly left her. She adjusted herself, after taking off her shoes as she thought about what to do when she landed. Talk to her mother first, then ask the police what they found, and hopefully by the end of it all she could find her sister. Another yawn escaped her as the door opened and Sesshomaru walked back in. Kagome blinked- had it been a half hour already? Sesshomaru gently walked towards her after he toed his shoes off in the entryway.

"Come, I'll give you something to wear for the night."

Kagome blinked and then sighed as she realized that all she'd left out were a pair of clothes for tomorrow. Nodding she allowed him to help her up and followed him to his room. It was nice, a bed was in the corner, tucked away underneath the window, and a closet took up a wall opposite it. Near the closet was a dresser and Sesshomaru walked towards it, opening a drawer and pulling out a t-shirt. Without a thought, Kagome began stripping in front of him. She was too tired to care and frankly, he had seen it all anyway. Once changed, she threw her clothes into the nearby clothes hamper and climbed into bed. Sesshomaru watched her do all this and let out a tiny smile. She looked so vulnerable, cuddled in his oversized shirt as she snuggled and tried to warm herself in the bed. Quickly shedding his own clothes, he climbed into bed after her and turned off the light. It felt nice to know she trusted him and he swore he would make sure that she was never this scared again. With a wistful smile, he gathered her close, letting his heat seep into her back and placed a loving kiss on her hair.

"Sleep Kagome, it will be all right. I promise." Her hand found his at her waist and she gave it a gentle squeeze. She knew that the answer he would give to her next question was only half true but she still had to ask and hope.

"Do you think they'll find her and bring her home?"

"I do. And if they don't I promise I will. Now rest love, you've got to catch that flight tomorrow." Kagome nodded, even as a tear rolled down her cheek. For a moment, she wanted to forget- forget that her sister was lost and just pretend that she was here with Sesshomaru because he'd invited her over for dinner. And so she did, as she finally fell asleep.

The next morning Kagome stood in front of the gate holding hands with Sesshomaru. She wasn't sure how Sesshomaru had convinced them- okay so he'd told a little white lie about her sister being in a terrible accident and him being her loving husband who wanted to make sure she made it onto the flight safely. The lie irked at her, but she was glad that he was here. She wanted to mooch the comfort he was radiating so that for once she didn't have to be the strong one in the family. When her grandfather had died in high school, Kagome's mother had fallen into deep grief and Souta was away at college. Being the only person who understood what was needed, she had stepped in and become the strong person of the house letting her mother cry on her shoulder when she needed to and so on. And just like that it stuck. Souta may have been back but Kagome had been the backbone for the family for five years now and she was going to need to be strong when she returned home. So for her to know that right now she could be weak for once and depend on someone meant a lot to her. He gave her hands a squeeze and she looked up at him with a smile. They had just called her zone meaning it was time for her to board. Turning she took his face in her hands and kissed him as his hands tightened around her waist in response.

"I love you. Thank you for everything." She whispered as they broke apart.

Sesshomaru held her hands in his and smiled tightly at her. He hated to see her so lost- he wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms and protect her but he knew that he couldn't- at least not yet and not in a way that wouldn't scare her. So he let her go with one last kiss. She handed her ticket to the air hostess and smiled once more at him before she left. He gave her a smile back as she left before turning to leave himself. He had a ticket to book for the next flight to Osaka. Something told him that's where Inuyasha was.

The flight was long and stressful for Kagome. She forced herself to get her mind together and slowly piece herself together so that she wouldn't be a blubbering mess when she came home. No, her mother didn't need that- her mother just needed her- to see her and know that at least one daughter was safe and sound in her arms. She hardly ate the meals, only forcing herself to eat a few bites so that she wouldn't be weak from hunger when she landed. A kind older woman sat next to her and gently gave her hand a pat.

"What is wrong child? Are ye in need of help?" The woman asked in Japanese. Kagome looked at the old woman- she had gray hair tied into a bun and an eyepatch over her left eye. Noticing her glance the old lady smiled.

"Ah, that's what I get for telling my grandson about my eyesight. First thing he does is send me to London to get operated on and sticks me there for a year! Hmph! Doesn't he know by now that this Kanzawa Kaede- matron of the family- doesn't need coddling?" Kagome let loose a small smile as she looked at the lady.

"I think he just doesn't want to see his favorite grandmother hurt. What is his name?"

"Miroku." The old lady answered her eyes twinkling when Kagome's face lit up in recognition. "Ay, you know him do ye?"

"Yes I do. He is my friend at university and his girlfriend is my best friend." The old woman smiled and looked at Kagome with kinder eyes.

"I told that boy last spring when he told me what he did that it was stupid. I'm glad he came around to his senses." Before Kagome could reply, an airhostess arrived and asked them about dinner. Distracted, Kaede and Kagome discontinued their conversation only to bring it up again right before they departed.

"I hope to meet you again Kagome. Perhaps I'll convince Miroku to come visit me soon with Sango and yourself accompanying him as guests."

"I hope to see you soon too Kaede-san." Kagome answered back. "Goodbye!" That said, Kagome looked out at the crowd searching for her best friend who was supposed to be there waiting for her. Sure enough, Sango was there waiting for her with a smile. She gave Kagome a hug and promised to fill her in on the way as they walked to the car. Kagome could only nod and listen to everything she had to say silently praying that her sister was all right even if she was extremely angry for the stunt that she had pulled.

When Kagome walked into her house she was met with a rather sad scene. Her brother and his new fiancé sat on the couch- she trying to comfort him with her touch. Her mother was resting on the sofa- she had gone into a bit of shock upon hearing of Kikyo's disappearance. She was fine now but the doctor had prescribed bed rest and had warned her to stray from any strenuous activity. This effectively meant that Kagome was going to help hold her family together during this time. She was suddenly grateful that Sesshomaru had been there for her when she had first heard the news. It felt nice to depend on someone and let down her strong façade for a moment. Taking a seat next to her mother who had gingerly helped herself up, she threw her arms around her.

"I know you warned me Kagome and I was careful! She was coming home from school! Her friends said she left the café they were eating at but she never came home!" Mrs. Higurashi let loose a few tears as she held on to her eldest daughter. She didn't want to let Kagome go, afraid that she too would disappear.

"Don't worry mama, you know the police will find her." She stated easing herself out of her mother's grasp. "Now you take it easy all right? I'll go shower and make us lunch."

When Kagome walked back downstairs she felt much more confident and at ease about what to do. The hot water had helped ease her tired muscles as well giving her a chance to truly freshen up. Her mother was in the kitchen chopping vegetables of some sort and Kagome had to smile at that. Cooking had always been her mother's way of calming herself down and her way of telling her family that she was slowly getting out of whatever funk she was in. She wasn't going to deprive her mother of this but she did want to help her since her mother did still need a bit of bedrest.

"What are you making today?" Kagome asked as she walked in. Her mother looked up from the mushrooms she was chopping and answered her daughter. She was sitting at the island, on a barstool, with the rest of the vegetables spread around her- carrots, potato, squash, and daikon.

"Well, there's a lot more vegetables and some meat that needs to be chopped up to make my special oden." Kagome had to smile at that- her mother's special oden was one of a few dishes that had been passed in her family for generations. It was a regular oden- a miso and dashi based broth- but it had lots of ingredients not traditionally found in the oden on the street. Her mother generally made something that Kagome simply called Tempura Balls- she rolled in carrots, potatoes, and squash into a dough that she nearly always had ready and fried them quickly in oil before adding them to the soup. Kagome always thought that it was these special ingredients that made the dish so good.

A shuffle to the side caught Kagome's attention and she smiled at Hitomi as she walked into the kitchen. Souta's fiancé had long been a member of the family. She and Souta had begun dating in high school and now seven years later, they were still together and engaged. She noticed what was being made and quickly pulled out a pot and filled it with water before putting it on the stove. As soon as Mrs. Higurashi had learned of her engagement a month ago, she had begun teaching the young woman the family recipe.

"How was London Kagome?" Hitomi asked as she waited for the water to boil.

"Lovely, though I'm sure you saw it all anyway." Kagome was referring to the hundreds of Facebook photos that she had put up.

"I did, but I'm asking about stuff outside of the pictures."

"Well, let's see- my roommate was lovely, I got to visit so many beautiful English manor homes and I –" Here she paused not sure how to broach the subject of Sesshomaru. Her family had only ever heard her complain about him and beyond Rin, Reena, and any one present during the Easter break no one knew about her and Sesshomaru. She wondered if she should broach the subject now, because he did pose a potential link and help in this case.

"And what Kagome?" Mrs. Higurashi prompted seeing the worry on her daughter's face. She was a mother at all times, and even if she was scared to death thinking of Kikyo she still worried that something bad had happened to Kagome in London.

"I'm going out with Sesshomaru Wentworth." She finally stated focusing her attention back on the squash. Mrs. Higurashi let out a tiny gasp and gently prodded her daughter for details.

"Would you like to share things with us dear?" Hearing no anger or disappointment in her mother's words- just genuine curiosity, Kagome nodded and waited for the other two women to get comfortable before she began.

A few minutes later, her tale was done and she looked at the expectant faces of both women. Hitomi was practically melting from the romance in the story while Mrs. Higurashi smiled glad that her daughter was happy. Nonetheless, the elderly matron had to check.

"He does make you happy doesn't you?" She asked slowly. Kagome looked at her mother and was reminded of the moment in the Wentworth kitchen when Sesshomaru's grandmother had asked her a question along the same lines.

"We love each other mama." She assured her with a smile. "Now, shouldn't we be working on the oden?"

Three hours later, Kagome yawned and looked at the bed that currently seemed really appealing. She turned back to the computer and smiled as a new message from Sesshomaru popped up. He had called her an hour ago asking her if she was available to talk- even if it was via Facebook. Laughing, she had agreed and was now chatting with her boyfriend. The smile on her face quickly disappeared and she eagerly typed back as her eyes darkened in anger. Why was Sesshomaru planning on going to Osaka? What was he hiding from her now? She nearly screamed in frustration as she saw the new message that popped up. A knock on the door caused her to look up and watch as her mother walked in. She noticed Kagome's expression and gave her a gentle smile before taking a seat across from her on the bed.

"You look busy, did I come at a wrong time?" Her mother began. Kagome laughed her off. If her mother had really thought she was busy she would have left her room long ago and not walked in like she did now.

"No, I was just talking with Sesshomaru. Let me tell him goodbye real quick k?"

"You don't have to Kagome!" Mrs. Higurashi sighed out watching her daughter turn around to her computer faster than she ever could. She instead smiled glad to see the smile on Kagome's face. There was something there; something in the way her eyes twinkled that she hadn't seen in a while. When Kagome turned around, she silently patted the spot on the bed next to her and her daughter took it without hesitation.

"I just got off the phone with the police." She stated when Kagome sat down. Her daughter's eyes were wide and she waited eagerly to hear what her mother said. "CCTV showed both Kikyo and Inuyasha boarding a train. Unfortunately, they couldn't see what train it was and what time it left. As soon as they know, they'll tell us. But we know that they are together."

Kagome bit her lip as she remembered the message Sesshomaru had sent her about his upcoming trip to Osaka- did he know something that she didn't? And should she tell her mother about it? What if Inuyasha was in Osaka with Kikyo? Looking at her mother's face, she decided not to tell her. Her mother was worried but she looked so hopeful upon hearing that her sister was at least seen somewhere. She couldn't lift that hope up only to have it struck down. No, she just couldn't. So instead, she took her mother's hands in hers and gave them a squeeze.

"She'll be found mother. It'll be all right. Now why don't you go to sleep?" Her mother smiled kindly and gently kissed her brow lingering for a moment before standing up.

"Good night Kagome."

"Good night mother."

Two days later, Kagome found out where Kikyo was and what condition she was in. She found that she didn't have to tell her mother about Sesshomaru's trip- her mother had been informed the day before that both Kikyo and Inuyasha had set foot in Osaka and were likely there. Sesshomaru had arrived there yesterday and sent her a quick message telling her he had landed. She had tried to contact him after that, but he never responded. For the rest of the day Kagome was worried- where was he and what was he doing? The next day, he called her at noon telling her he had found Kikyo.

"Where is she?" Kagome demanded turning the eyes of every face in the room. "Sesshomaru, I swear to god if you don't answer right now-"

"Look Kagome, you don't want to know." She heard Sesshomaru sigh. That only served to anger her more and her frustration leaked out.

"Sesshomaru, where the hell is Kikyo." It was her sister for god's sake- the little girl she'd sworn she was going to take care of when her grandfather died. His reluctance wasn't helping anything at the moment anyway. Kagome knew Kikyo might not be in the best situation but frankly she didn't care where she was as long as she was found. It would break her heart to see her sister hurt but it would kill something in her if her sister was not alive. And she knew that Kikyo was alive so she wanted to know her sister was safe and sound somehow. She heard a soft breath on the other end, almost as if Sesshomaru was letting out some of his frustration before he spoke. She heard a shuffle on the other end before he sighed and told her the answer she wanted.

"Tobita shinchi- that's where I found her."

Kagome paled when she heard that. She mentally did the math in her head and tried to think of how many days her sister might have been in the largest red-light district in this area of Japan- five days. Fearing the worst, Kagome sank into a nearby seat and asked her next question. Kikyo may have been a little more wild compared to Kagome but the girl wouldn't have survived a real night in the red light district. Kagome distinctly prayed that that wasn't the case; she couldn't bear with knowing that her sister was scarred emotionally, physically, and mentally.

"How is she?" Another shuffle was heard but this one was shorter and Kagome guessed that this question was easier to answer for Sesshomaru. She could just imagine his face- eyes blazing with anger but turning gentle when they viewed Kikyo.

"Shaken up and scared- she recognized who I was because Inuyasha came with me to find her." There was a sound and then he spoke in a lower voice. It was calming to Kagome and she appreciated the soft timbre; it was his way of reassuring her and she was grateful for it. "Look Kagome, I'm going to give the phone to Kikyo- we're taking the next train back in an hour."

By this point, Mrs. Higurashi, understanding that her youngest daughter had been found edged closer to Kagome collapsing next to her on the sofa. Kagome smiled gently at her as her sister came on the line. A sob was heard before a scared voice silently called her name. Hearing her sister sound so vulnerable made tears come from Kagome's eyes but she blinked them back. Crying in front of her mother wouldn't help the situation any. As it was she was probably going to have to go somewhere quiet and collect herself before she came to see her sister and demanded answers out of Sesshomaru.

"Kikyo- are you okay?" She asked with her voice having a rougher edge than she would have liked. It gave away how she was feeling and she didn't like that.

"Oh god Kagome, I- I owe Sesshomaru so much! So much!" Knowing that she wasn't going to get much out of Kikyo, Kagome eyed her mother who was practically shaking with shock and handed her the phone.

"Kikyo?" Her mother asked slowly only to burst into tears when she heard her daughter's voice on the phone for the first time in five days. "Oh darling! I'm so glad you're all right!" Unable to hear the teary reunion, Kagome slipped out of the room. Hitomi followed her with sad eyes and Souta made to follow but she held him back. She shook her head slowly telling him that Kagome needed time to herself for a bit. Reluctantly, the older brother did as told and sighed as he took Hitomi's hands in his. Kikyo was safe and that was all that mattered.

Four hours later a tired Kagome stood with her brother on the platform of the train station. It had been decided that Hitomi would stay behind with her mother while Kagome and Souta would go in his car to pick up Sesshomaru and Kagome. Kagome had no idea what Sesshomaru meant when he said that Inuyasha had helped him find Kikyo. When he had first told her she had been too shocked by the news of him finding Kikyo that she hadn't paid any attention to it. Now though, she had to know. It was obvious that Sesshomaru knew to find Inuyasha in Osaka- how did he know that? So many questions were going through her head and she wanted answers. She also wanted to know where Inuyasha was but she figured that those questions could wait for now. The announcement telling of the arrival of the Osaka train soon sounded and both Kagome and Souta stood ready. They didn't know what to do or feel but they both knew that it was going to be a sombre welcome for everyone. The train pulled in a few minutes later and came to a stop down Kagome's right.

Kagome quickly scanned the doors to her right, knowing Souta would look at the ones to her left and waited to spot Sesshomaru's hair. She saw him a door down from where she was and catching her brother's attention began walking that way. Sesshomaru noticed her as well and gently shielded Kikyo, who looked scared, as he edged his way towards them. Realizing what was happening Kagome walked forward and threw an arm around her sister reassuring her before leading her to the car. It freed up Sesshomaru who she noticed had a large suitcase he was wheeling behind him. Kagome realized quickly that it was probably the suitcase he had brought with him from London. They soon approached the car which Souta had unlocked. She edged into the backseat with Kikyo as Sesshomaru took the passenger seat. All of the other people present noticed Kikyo mellow out when she encountered the less crowded car. It made the two older siblings shudder at what their younger sister had to go through while Sesshomaru silently festered in guilt and anger form having been unable to prevent Kikyo from being tricked and manipulated by Inuyasha so easily.

No words were exchanged as the four made their way to the shrine. Kagome glanced up when Kikyo had eased enough and laid her head on her shoulder not saying a word and seemingly lost in her own mind. Sesshomaru looked up and his glance met hers. There was a measure of relief and gratitude in Kagome's eyes and he was happy to see it there. Giving her a gentle nod, he averted his gaze back to the window leaving her to stroke her sister's hair gently as she pondered on what to do when she got home.

When they arrived at the shrine, her mother was waiting for them outside unable to contain her excitement at seeing her youngest daughter. She waited patiently and when her daughters reached her immediately pulled the younger one into a tight embrace. Tears were flowing down both the Higurashi women's faces as Souta led them inside. He assumed Hitomi was inside helping get things ready for both their visitors and decided to talk to her later. Shooting a look at Kagome and Sesshomaru he noticed that the man hadn't brought up his suitcase- he wasn't thinking of staying in a hotel was he? Kagome smiled at her brother and shooed him away. Getting the hint, Souta left to go inside and it was only then that Kagome dared to approach Sesshomaru.

"I missed you. And I can't thank you enough for what you did." She mumbled out throwing herself into him. His arms tightened around hers holding her as though she would disappear soon.

"I missed you too Kagome." Noting that he still hadn't said anything about how he had found Kikyo Kagome pulled away to ask him when she noticed how tired he looked.

"Sesshomaru," she asked in a sudden moment of clarity, "have you slept since you landed here?" At the quick aversion of his eyes, Kagome gasped and without thinking she grabbed his hand and started leading him inside the house. At his resistance, she turned questioning eyes to him and he eyed her house warily.

"What, did you think my mother would turn away the man who brought her daughter back to her? Get yourself together Sesshomaru!" This time, knowing that Kagome's stubbornness wasn't one to be tested Sesshomaru followed her. And, he was tired- climbing into a clean bed after taking a hot shower sounded wonderful.

"My clothes," he stated as she took off his shoes in the genkan, "I need to get them." Kagome would have none of it however. She tugged him up the stairs and to an empty bathroom.

"Just go take your shower and use whatever's in there. It's all my stuff anyway so I don't care. I'll bring your suitcase up." Noting his hesitation again, Kagome pushed him into the bathroom and shut the door behind her. Seeing as he was left to his own means Sesshomaru locked the door and stripped down, tossing his clothes into the hamper that he recognized held Kagome's clothes before turning on the hot shower.

As he washed away all the dirt and grime from the last two days, Sesshomaru felt so much more at ease. There was something wonderful about cleansing himself of the gunk he had picked up from the past few days. His hair when washed let out some dirty brown water and he cringed not wanting to know how much dirt that actually was. After spending a good twenty minutes, longer than he usually did, Sesshomaru turned the shower off and reached for the towels lining the wall. He couldn't help but laugh at the one he grabbed to dry off. It was a pink towel that he had noticed in Kagome's dorm room once. The towel was large and fluffy resembling a near-robe on her. On him however, the towel would look comical making it seem as if he was wearing a pink skirt. Shaking his hair and toweling it off with a smaller towel Sesshomaru stepped out of the bathroom not sure where to go.

"Oh!" Turning to the voice Sesshomaru flushed being caught in only a towel by the elderly Higurashi matron. It was embarrassing he had to admit to be seen like this in front of your girlfriend's mother.

"Kagome brought up your suitcase earlier. She put it in her room." Mrs. Higurashi pointed out a room to her right. "That's her room. Just come down for some food when you're ready." Not wanting to prolong the poor boy's embarrassment further she left to go downstairs and heat up some of the lunch from earlier shaking her head. He reminded her of Souta; the poor boy was still so embarrassed whenever she saw him shirtless no matter how many times she told him that he had run out of the bathroom stark naked when he was little.

Sesshomaru quickly slipped into the room Mrs. Higurashi indicated and quickly donned some new clothes. He had a feeling Mrs. Higurashi was laughing at him and he vowed to get Kagome back for this. Or maybe this was her way of getting back at him for that morning in England, he mused. Nonetheless, after making sure his hair was sufficiently dry he hung up the towel in the bathroom and followed the smell of food to the kitchen. Kagome was there along with another young woman and her mother. Souta was sitting in the living room on the phone- with the police it sounded like. Kagome turned and upon seeing him took his hand and led him to the dining table nearby.

"Sit! Tell me what do you want to eat?" At Sesshomaru's confused glance, Kagome flushed and pointed to the kitchen. "Er mother made soba earlier today and miso. She also made curry and-"

"Soba and miso are good for now Kagome." Sesshomaru interrupted. Seeing her confused glance, he sighed. "I just want to sleep- I don't want a heavy meal." Understanding, Kagome quickly moved from his side and quickly set to work serving him. For Mrs. Higurashi and Hitomi who had only ever seen her act this way around her grandfather the sight was comical. The way Kagome was fussing over Sesshomaru was just too cute. Nonetheless, Mrs. Higurashi let her daughter do what she wanted.

"Do you want to check on Kikyo?" Hitomi asked softly as Kagome sat down next to Sesshomaru gently serving him with whatever he needed as he ate. Mrs. Higurashi turned from the stove, and nodded. She let Hitomi warm the curry while she went to check on her daughter upstairs. When she came down fifteen minutes later, Sesshomaru was just finishing up his meal and Kikyo took a seat near him waiting for her own meal.

"Sesshomaru." Mrs. Higurashi said taking Kagome's seat and silently commanding her to serve her sister. "If you don't mind me asking how did you find my daughter?" Sesshomaru sighed as he put his chopsticks down knowing that he was going to have to answer sooner or later. Souta came in from the living room and took a seat at the island as Kagome and Hitomi continued to busy themselves- Hitomi washing his now finished dishes and Kagome prepping a plate for her sister.

"Inuyasha is my half-brother, he is the son of my father's mistress." Taking a deep breath he continued wanting to get this all out at once. "When my father died in high school, Inuyasha got my sister addicted to drugs and nearly got her to sell off a priceless heirloom of our father's. I managed to take Rin away and sent her to stay with my grandparents. I also rewrote my father's will and effectively cut out Inuyasha from my father's will until he could prove he was going to be more responsible. At this time, he fled to Osaka where his mother was from and where his old girlfriend was." The word girlfriend was spat out almost as though he hated to say it and Kagome realized that this was the girlfriend that sold Inuyasha the drugs.

"This girlfriend dealt in drugs- opium and herion- and that was where Inuyasha took refuge. I have been keeping tabs on him and found out that he has a large debt he owes to her. If I had known that he was planning on using Kikyo to pay it back I would have-" Here he stopped curling his hands into fists. Within moments, Kagome was by his side and had her hand around his. He looked at her silently glad that she was here and gave her a soft smile.

"Luckily by the time I arrived, Kikyo wasn't compromised." He didn't say anything more and when it looked like Kikyo wanted to say something Sesshomaru glanced at her and she stopped. Everyone noticed this exchange and decided to ask Kikyo about it later. An odd silence descended upon the room broken only when Mrs. Higurashi stood and gently embraced Sesshomaru in a hug.

"Thank you for bringing me my daughter back." The statement seemed to calm the tension in the room. Hitomi took the plate and bowl Kagome had readied and placed them in front of Kikyo while Souta eyed the movements in the kitchen wearily wondering how he had been born into a family with such strong females. Kagome meanwhile took Sesshomaru upstairs and once she was sure he would be comfortable enough, she crept downstairs.

When she came downstairs, her brother was talking to Kikyo and the young girl, though having come from a traumatic experience, was angry with her eyes blazing. Curious Kagome edged into the kitchen intent on hearing what was going on. Hitomi was biting her lip in nervousness while Mrs. Higurashi looked lost.

"Tell me Kikyo, Sesshomaru was hiding something- did he hurt you?" Kikyo unable to finally take Souta's questions couldn't take it anymore.

"Fuck off Souta!" She yelled indignant to her mother's shock at her word choice. "Do you want to know what he did? Then I'll tell you! He paid off Inuyasha's debt- an entire damn $10,000- that's right dollars not yen and then paid for my freedom-that's another $10,000. Instead of accusing him, you should be thanking him. I don't know how I'll ever repay him." Kikyo collapsed into tears and Kagome shot her brother a nasty look before throwing her arms around her sister.

"Kikyo-" Souta began feeling terribly guilty- he'd only meant to want to care for his sister.

"That's enough Souta." Kagome began with a growl. "I think you've done enough damage here." Feeling utterly chastised now, Souta guiltily fled the kitchen. Hitomi knowing he needed to talk to someone silently followed him while Mrs. Higurashi slowly approached her daughters.

"There Kikyo, darling, it's all right for now. Why don't you try to sleep? But first, let's make sure you eat?" Gently, she took the soup spoon and began to feed her daughter. Kikyo surrendered to her mother's actions wondering why she had ever decided to leave this lovely home. Sniffling back her tears, she allowed herself to bask in the love that her family provided.

Later that day, in the evening, Sesshomaru woke and took a moment to reorient himself. He wasn't used to waking up in a room that was painted green and a bed that was just a tad too small for his tall frame. Nonetheless, he was grateful to catch up on a day's worth of sleep. Leaving the bed, he found the bathroom he'd used earlier that day and quickly freshened up before taking the stairs down. He felt awkward and thought that he had perhaps overstayed his welcome in the Higurashi household especially around Souta who for some reason eyed him warily. When he came downstairs, Souta was sitting in the living room by himself and Sesshomaru walked towards him slowly unsure what to say or do.

"Hey." Souta greeted sparing Sesshomaru the trouble. "Uh, did you need anything?"

"If possible could I please get a glass of water?" Souta nodded and handed him a glass from the kitchen with a small smile. After Sesshomaru had taken it, Souta decided to apologize and maybe just maybe ask Sesshomaru how the Higurashi family would ever pay him back.

"I'm sorry if I wasn't exactly the nicest person earlier. I just- it sucks to know I wasn't able to do anything for my little sister you know? She told us what you did Sesshomaru. How can we ever pay you back?" The glass in Sesshomaru's hands nearly cracked from the sudden pressure that the holder put on it. He had purposefully begged Kikyo to never tell. He didn't want the Higurashi household to be indebted to him; rather he just wanted to be accepted by a family that he respected: Kagome's family. Souta could tell he had struck a cord and hastily tried to fix the situation, though he didn't know what to do.

"Is everything okay?" The Higurashi brother asked leaning against the counter and fiddling with his fingers.

"Yes." Sesshomaru finally answered realizing his silence had worried the other male. "You don't have to pay me back." At Souta's outburst, Sesshomaru held up a hand and continued. "I did it all for Kagome- for your family. Your gratitude is the only gift I want to see." Souta's eyes softened as he looked at the other male and sighed before nodding and holding out his hand.

"All right then. Just- just let me know if there's anything I can do for you okay?" Sesshomaru nodded with a smile and Souta gave one back easing the tension that had been present between the two men.

When the Higurashi women came back into the house, there was a calmness in the air. Kikyo had come down and was watching the television with her brother, the two were snuggled together on the couch and it was touching to see the picture they made. Adjacent to them in the armchair, Sesshomaru was working on his laptop; most likely on work related matters. Kikyo looked up when the front door opened, a little startled but Souta's soothing hand on her head helped calm her. Kagome walked in first dressed in a pair of shorts and a tank top. Sesshomaru raised an eye at the ensemble but didn't say anything as she collapsed onto his lap. He was lucky he'd moved the laptop before it met a premature death.

"I'm so tired- I forgot how large the shrine courtyard is." Sesshomaru didn't say anything instead using that time to nuzzle Kagome's neck. So that was what she had been doing when he woke up.

"Go take a shower. I'll make you tea." He whispered softly giving her a quick kiss and ushering her to stand. His actions did not go unnoticed by the room's other two occupants. Kikyo smiled softly, happy that her sister found the happiness she deserved while Souta was caught between being happy for Kagome and feeling overprotective towards Sesshomaru. They didn't say anything as Kagome fled upstairs and instead continued to watch the show as the door opened again and Mrs. Higurashi and Hitomi came in, arms laden with grocery bags. Souta stood and helped them with the bags while Mrs. Higurashi followed him to make sure he put things in the right place.

"Oh Sesshomaru! You could have asked me to make you tea." Mrs. Higurashi fussed as she walked up to the tall male by the stove. Sesshomaru was touched by her concern but shook it off.

"It's fine; besides this is for Kagome." The elder matron's eyes softened and she nodded instructing the other two in the kitchen on what to do. With the household bustling again Sesshomaru felt at home when a freshly showered Kagome came down and put her arms around him. It felt nice and it felt right.

A frantic Kagome ran around trying to remember where she had placed her speech. Oh, she was going to die if she didn't find it. Sesshomaru walked into the living room and raised a gentle eyebrow as he took in her appearance. Even after nearly three and a half years together, Kagome still surprised him. He found he liked it that way; it was refreshing to know that the girl he was in love with would always be there to challenge him to do better. Nonetheless, her bending was ruining the dress she was wearing and he knew that while she didn't care now, she would be extremely sad about it later so he gently walked up behind her and snuck an arm around her waist. Kagome straightened from her awkward bend over the sofa and smiled at him before she squirmed out of his hold.

"Can you help me find the speech?" Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow before he pointed to the kitchen where a stapled speech was stuck with a magnet to the refrigerator. He didn't understand her reasoning but he had decided not to question it. Three years together did not lessen their arguments and he did not want to get into another one today. It was after all a wedding day.

"Oh that's right! Do you mind grabbing it for me while I put my heels on?" Kagome didn't wait for an answer as she kissed his cheek quickly and disappeared towards the genkan to slip on her shoes. Shaking his head Sesshomaru grabbed the speech off the fridge before walking towards where Kagome was waiting.

It was August 5th- Sango and Miroku's wedding day. The two had waited utill Sango had her masters before getting married. As expected, Kagome was the maid of honor and Sesshomaru the best man so it was no surprise that the two were supposed to give speeches. Patting his vest pocket Sesshomaru relaxed as he felt the familiar weight of his speech resting there. Kagome turned to look at him after she had finished strapping her heels on and smiled. Sesshomaru toed his own on before grabbing her around the waist and looking pointedly down at her hands.

"Who do you think will notice first?" He asked softly picking up her left hand and tracing the ring there. He'd given it to her last night right as they were going to bed and she had accepted tears flowing down her face. Her eyes weren't as puffy as she'd feared but her entire being glowed with a joy that he was glad to have given her.

"Ayame." Kagome answered softly. It had been a year and half since Ayame had called it off with Hojo. Hojo hadn't given her space; instead he'd kept pressuring her to have kids and give up her career so as a result, Ayame had left him because she wasn't ready for a relationship like that yet. After the divorce, she'd stayed in London and Rin had become good friends with her. It was during this time that Ayame and Kouga began to get close. All the signs had been pointing in their direction for a while and Kouga had finally asked her out on a beautiful Valentine's date that led them to the relationship they were currently in.

"Hn." Kagome had to laugh at Sesshomaru's exaggerated sarcasm. If there was one person that still was able to get under his skin it was Kouga.

"Oh relax, you know it'll be fine. Besides, he's been pining over Ayame for nearly two years now and it took him this long to act. You can hold that over him." Sesshomaru shook his head before he led her out the door and toward the wedding venue. It was early- only six- but Kagome had promised to help the bride get ready and he had to ensure that Miroku didn't get a sudden case of cold feet. They were going to be a few minutes late as is, he didn't want to increase their tardy entrance.

The Meiji shrine where the couple had decided to get married was teeming with family when they got there. The Kanzawa family was running around with last minute decorations while the Tanaka's were busy telling the caterers where to put their stuff in the reception hall since Sango had opted to hold a western style ceremony in the historic shrine. Kagome snuck into the house while Sesshomaru greeted his friend's parents and found Kikyo and Ayame trying to calm a pacing Sango in an old corner room. She smiled opening her arms to her friend and Sango ran into them eagerly.

"I can't help but be scared Kagome- am I doing the right thing?" Kagome gently pulled away from her friend trying hard to not mess up the hairdo that her friend currently wore.

"Miroku loves you and respects you- he's willing to spend the rest of his life with you. Now, why don't you stop that crying and look at me. You love this man and you want to have his babies don't you?" She waited for her friend's nod before continuing. "Then why are you moping around here and not getting ready for your big day?" Sango laughed glad that Kagome was helping ease her fears.

"Because I needed a friend to knock some sense into me." With a shake of the head Kagome helped her friend get ready taking her to the dressing station and helping her with her dress.

Soon, it was nine and most of the guests had already started filling into their seats. Kikyo had left to help her mother with ushering duties leaving Mrs. Tanaka, Ayame, and Kagome alone with Sango. Kagome moved to push some of her wayward hair behind her ear when her hand was suddenly caught in Ayame's. Just as she'd told Sesshomaru that morning Ayame had been the first to notice.

"When?" Ayame asked softly feeling happy for her friend.

"Last night before we went to bed. I climbed in and he was waiting there grinning like a little kid when he noticed I saw the box on my pillow." Kagome flushed recalling the memory. It wasn't the most romantic of proposals but considering their relationship she doubted she wanted anything more than that. Kagome was frustrated and scared about her friend's wedding and Sesshomaru had all but eased her tension when he proposed. She grinned goofily as the bride came forward and embraced her in a hug.

"Oh Kagome, I'm so happy for you two!" Sango pulled away as Mrs. Tanaka embraced her goddaughter. "Does anyone else know?" Kagome shook her head but then paused recalling something that Sesshomaru had told her last night.

"Well, Rin and Souta helped him pick out the ring so I think that they both knew he was going to propose soon; I don't think they know he's done it already." The girls gushed, fawning over the ring and the proposal before Mrs. Tanaka straightened up as she glanced at the clock.

"Sango dear, I think it's time for me to take my seat." Standing up, she walked to the bride and gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead. "Your father and I are so proud and happy of both our daughters. Make Miroku the happiest groom on earth okay?" Sango hastily blinked away tears along with the other two girls before nodding. A knock sounded and Kikyo stuck her head in with a smile since she was third bridesmaid. It was her way of telling the room that her ushering duties were over and that the wedding would start soon.

"It's time for places Mrs. Tanaka." Nodding, the mother of the bride wiped her eyes quickly before walking out the door and to the shrine grounds. Only a short while later Kagome found herself walking down the aisle towards Sesshomaru, Kouga, and Sango's younger cousin Kohaku. Once in their positions she gave a small smile to Sesshomaru which he returned. Hearing a gasp from Miroku Kagome turned and saw her friend walking down the aisle on the arm of her father.

Sango looked ethereal, more beautiful even since she'd left the room just a few minutes ago. Her friend was glowing with happiness and the love she had in her eyes made the wedding seem fairy-tale like. Kagome watched it all trying to hold back her tears. Miroku looked so happy to be there with Sango and it made her giddy just wondering if that was what Sesshomaru would like on their wedding day. The couple exchanged their vows, their rings, and a chaste but loving kiss before Miroku led his wife back down the aisle. Kagome only snapped out of it when Sesshomaru handed her his arm to follow the couple. She was embarrassed hoping that no one had caught her spacing out. As they walked back down the aisle, Sesshomaru leaned down to whisper in her ear.

"If you want, I'll cover for you and you can go fix your make-up in the bathroom." Kagome shook her head looking up at her fiancé as they arrived at the reception room grateful for his ever perceptive attention.

"I'll be fine, just expect me to get teary periodically throughout the day okay?" Nodding Sesshomaru brushed away the one loose tear threatening to fall and kissed her softly.

"Remember Kagome- happy tears." He murmured pulling away and leading her to their table. She shook her head before pulling herself together. If Sango saw her tears, she would start crying and that was a mess that Kagome didn't want to get into. So instead, she mentally prepared herself for the speech she was going to give as she took her seat and the other guests began piling in.

A few hours later Kagome laid her head on her fiancé's shoulder as the two of them looked out on the dance floor. Kagura and Yura were dancing with their husbands next to the newlyweds. Rin was at a nearby table flirting with Kohaku. Seeing this, Kagome nudged Sesshomaru indicating to him the scene.

"What is he doing?" Sesshomaru asked with an angry huff.

"Oh hush, let her flirt with him. Kohaku's a really sweet guy. Did I mention he got a Rhodes scholarship? He's going to study international economics at Oxford in the fall." Sesshomaru merely grunted and Kagome had to giggle at that. She supposed that no matter how old he was, he was always going to care for his sister fondly and with a little bit of an overprotective attitude.

"Come on." She stated hoping to distract him. "Let's go tell your grandparents about us." Sesshomaru's eyes sought hers and he smiled before standing and leading the way. After the lunch and customary dancing, Kagome and Sesshomaru had opted for a little bit of recluse. They hadn't had time to reflect on the new found aspect of their relationship and they wanted to spend some time with each other before they had to eventually tell their family. Taking her hand, Sesshomaru let himself give it a little squeeze as they wound around the tables to the one where his grandparents were. They were sitting with Kaede who smiled warmly at the couple as they walked up.

"How are you two?" Lady Wentworth asked. She'd seen them in passing about an hour ago when Kagome had persuaded the two of them to dance.

"Wonderful." Sesshomaru answered kissing his grandmother on the cheek. "Kagome and I have something to tell you." The Earl's eyes twinkled and Kagome let out a frustrated sigh as she realized that the surprise was somehow already out.

"Who told you?" She asked allowing the elder women to look at her ring. The Earl laughed as he replied.

"Well, he did have to ask me to add to the family tree a while back." Sesshomaru flushed and Kagome raised a curious eyebrow at her fiancé.

"So you knew all along that I was going to accept?" She asked skeptically. "What if I had said no?" Sesshomaru's eyes flashed in apprehension for a moment before he replied.

"That's why the lines were only added in pencil." Kagome shook her head leaning over to give him a quick kiss.

"You're lucky I love you so much Sesshomaru." The three elders laughed at this and could only smile as they saw Sesshomaru pick the girl up and twirl her catching the attention of quite a few people in the room. He set her down but not before drawing her into a deep kiss as his grandparents looked on approval shining in their eyes. It had taken the two a while but they were nonetheless happy for their grandson and immensely glad that the young woman in front of them had been the one to get him out of his shell.

"Sesshomaru! Kagome!" The couple pulled away to see the bride and groom headed their way. The newlyweds smirked and Kagome just knew that something embarrassing was going to happen soon especially as a microphone somehow found its way near Miroku.

"Ladies and gentleman," Miroku began addressing the audience, "Both Sango and I know that this is our wedding but we'd like to extend a warm congratulations to the two people without whom we wouldn't really be who we are today. Sesshomaru- my brother in arms and Kagome- his new fiancé. Join me as we congratulate the two that took forever to get here but are finally going to get married."

Sesshomaru scowled- he'd never liked a lot of attention directed at his personal life- and Kagome blushed hotly while glaring daggers at her friend. Nonetheless, they felt happy and excited as they heard the toasts being made to their future and congratulating them. When Sesshomaru gingerly lifted her chin and kissed her, he whispered three simple words that made the embarrassment a little more bearable.

"I love you."

"I know, and I love you too." Kagome answered threading her arms around his neck and kissing him ignorant to the cheers surrounding them. It had taken them a while but they had finally managed to break through her preconception and his conceit to get to where they were now. And she was very glad that they did as he pulled away and looked at her fondly making her feel like the luckiest woman in the world. Yes, everything was going to be perfectly fine if not a little argumentative in their future.

A/N: And there you have it folks- the ending of Conceit and Preconception. Before I finish I would like to say that I do not own the following: Inuyasha, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Leeds Castle, Wuthering Heights, Frankenstein, Jane Eyre, Great Expectations, Madame Bovary, Nicolas Nickelby, Cricket on the Hearth, Barclays, Jack Whilshire, Darjeeling Tea, the Meiji Shrine, and British Airways. Also, whatever else I forgot (because I'm sure I forgt something!)

P.S. Jack Wilshire just so happens to be a football (soccer) player- I did not mean to use his name- I just liked the name until I realized it was already someone's. At that point I decided I liked my Jack so I left him in.

As for what happened to Inuyasha- take your guess- I personall think he ends up in jail somehow.