Bold lettering are Rin's thoughts. Italics are when Sesshomaru speaks.

Chapter 10

Where the hell is he?!

The whole day I had been stressing over this event and Sesshomaru hadn't been seen all day. When I had woken up, all I received was a note with my breakfast saying that he was needed at work and to be ready by six o'clock.

The clock said five forty-five and still no word or sound. I had been too nervous to eat anything for lunch so now I was hungry and getting annoyed. I didn't want to ruin my makeup before Sesshomaru saw me but now I was on the verge of telling the chef that I did want the dessert he had offered me.

I let out a deep breath as I tried to go back to the book I had in my lap. I had gotten tired of standing in the living room and refused to look like the typical trophy wife that will always be waiting for her husband. It was weird to be doing something so normal as reading in such a fancy dress. When I had first shown it to Kagome she had been ecstatic and ask so many questions it made my mind spin. I had chosen the long-sleeved lacy red dress because the color reminded me of Sesshomaru's markings. It also had intricate flower designs embedded throughout the dress that both showed enough skin but in a classy way. The finish was a mermaid style dress that touched the floor. My hair was in an intricate braided up-do with a slightly messy look to it. The only piece of jewelry was my small diamond earrings and my engagement ring.

As I looked down at my ring, I could admit that the reason I was so nervous was because it was going to be the first time Sesshomaru and I would be formally seen as a couple in an environment where I knew nothing about.

Well I am learning but I don't feel that it was enough!

All I knew was that it was another business event which meant that it would consist of many important and wealthy clients both human and demon.

My thoughts were interrupted as a throat cleared. "Excuse me, My Lady. Lord Sesshomaru is waiting at the entrance."

I could have told him that I had heard him but ignored going to Sesshomaru. I could have told him that His Lord should come to me himself since he finally decided to arrive, but I didn't.

Instead I gave the house keeper a small smile and nodded. As I slowly got up and put the book aside I saw that he was coming over to escort me but I stopped him. "Thank you but I can make it on my own."

I had three inch nude heels but I had danced in taller sizes so it wasn't difficult to walk in. I composed my face and made sure my emotions were under control as I made my way to the front door. I didn't want to start the evening by arguing, so I would wait and see if Sesshomaru would explain.

Or if he will completely ignore it and act like he did nothing wrong. Which I really hope isn't the case!

I pause by the bar where I had left the gift I had bought Sesshomaru. I had been so excited when I had found it because it was the exact same color as my dress but as time flew by I began to over think it. It made me realize how much I didn't know about him. He could hate ties! Maybe he already has a similar one or too many that he may not want more!?

I shook my head and grabbed the long, thin black box that contained the red tie before I really did freak myself out and chicken out. All these thoughts were running through my mind as I turn down the hall to the front entrance.

Oh. . .Kami. . .

Nope. All that control just went out the window as I see Sesshomaru waiting for me. He is wearing an all black three piece suit with his long hair unbound. Seeing him like this made me wonder how or why the fates thought I would be the perfect partner to this powerful and amazing male.

It was then that I realize that I had stopped moving because Sesshomaru was walking toward me. His arms were held back behind him and his face was blank and emotionless. The one thing that allowed me to not get even more nervous was that I could feel his emotions through our bond. The desire I felt was burning through to me and as I look up his golden eyes I'm not surprised to see that same desire reflected in his gaze. No matter how much I tried I still couldn't prevent the heat from rising to my face. No matter how many times I'm in Sesshomaru's presence, it's always like the first time I met him. I lose control and become nervous and shy but also excited.

"You look lovely, My Rin."

I smile as I hear his response and I'm about to reply that I had too much free time to get ready when he reveals what he has been hiding behind his back.

A big black box is in his left hand as he presents it to me. A million questions go through my head as I just stare at it. Eventually I see his other hand lift the lid open and I am left speechless.

I was expecting jewelry or something of that fashion. Instead Sesshomaru has surprised me by how well he knows me. That fact sours my stomach because I have yet to learn what his desires are.

"Does this displease you. I believed you cared more for this than jewelry."

"What? Nonono. . . I am extremely grateful and surprised! I love lilies and the fact that it is a rare Impala Lily Flower that matches my dress, makes me realize that you have been very busy today. I just feel that my gift doesn't compare and-"

My thoughts were cut off as I feel Sesshomaru's clawed hand touch my chin. I look up and see he has taken out the lily from the box and is holding it by the end in his other hand.

"Which side do you prefer it on."

"Oh. I usually wear them on my left side, but let me go get some pins for it."

"There is no need. I had this custom made."

Before I am able to ask, Sesshomaru moves his fingers to show that the lily had been modified with a small hair comb. I smile and move my head to make it easier for him to place in my hair. "This is only a small part of the gift. The actual potted plant will arrive within a week. I called in a special favor for this to be made more quickly."

The special tie that lay within the black box that I held behind my back felt more and more heavier. I should have just left it in the living room, I guess I can show it to him and tell him not to worry about wearing it.

"What is troubling you."

I slowly look up into his eyes and see the slightest crease between his eyebrows. I don't feel any of his emotions so I assume he has somehow blocked our connection so I wouldn't know what he is feeling. Which is a big inconvenience right now because he is probably feeling my worry but I have no clue what is going on in his mind since he doesn't show anything on his face.

I decide to just get it over with so that we could be on our way and I can finally know where we are going.

I pull the box from behind my back and see him tilt his head to the side. That small movement made me realize I had surprised him. Gaining back some of my courage, I lift the box slightly indicating that he should take it. His golden eyes met mine for what seemed like hours as he takes the box, breaking our connection only when he finally opens it and sees my gift.

"I know it isn't much but there is a meaning to why I chose that tie. I had been planning on wearing a different dress but I saw this one and I knew I had to wear it on our first outing as a couple. I wasn't completely sure but now that I see you I know that the color of my dress matches your markings perfectly. It took me a while but I finally found a tie in the exact same shade as my dress. Lady Izayoi explained that every demon has a unique color for their markings and so since I don't have any I wanted to represent yours the next best way. The tie was just a thought so we could match but it's not necessary."

I actually expected him to say something right away, instead Sesshomaru remains quiet as he continues to look down at the tie. Seconds pass by and I begin to worry that I have crossed some line or have insulted him.

Minutes pass.

Now I'm anxious. This isn't like him at all. He has remained in the same position; still as stone.

"Sessh-"

Before I even finish saying his name, Sesshomaru finally reacts by slowly lifting his head. Instead of the amber orbs I am looking at his blood red eyes. Something must have happened and I hate not knowing what he is feeling. I am about to apologize when I realize he isn't looking me, well he is but our eyes never connected. Instead he is looking at my body, slowly taking in my appearance and then he looks back at the darn tie!

Oh Kami, this is getting ridiculous! If he says he hates it because of some misunderstanding I will refuse to go anywhere with him! Not only is he not telling me what's wrong but he cut me off! Argh. . . he is so frustrating!

I'm about to voice my thoughts when I hear him take a deep breath. His gaze on my neck before slowly raising to meet my eyes.

I hold my breath as I try to read his mood, hoping he will let me in. He doesn't say a word as his red eyes never leave mine. I see movement and notice that he is slowly taking the tie out of the box. I bite my lip as I wait for his next action. The way he keeps looking at me makes me feel like he can see through to my very soul. Heat spreads through my body and I feel like I am being hunted. He doesn't appear angry, instead it feels like the first meeting we had together, except this time I'm not afraid of him.

He slowly walks closer until our bodies almost touch. I feel so confused because I want to be mad at him for his reaction but I also want to kiss him again. I was left feeling so incomplete with the small sample I had last night and I wanted more.

"Will you do me the honor."

My naughty thoughts are interrupted as I see him lift the tie between us.

Does this mean he wants to wear it?

I continued to look for any other direction but when none came, I slowly raise my hands to his black tie and begin to loosen it. A soft rumbling sound erupts from his body and I couldn't help but take advantage of touching him. As I take the red tie from his hands and begin to knot it around his neck, Sesshomaru leans down to kiss his way up my neck. My hands shake as I tried to hurry and finish. Once the last twist was in place I use his tie to close the distance between us until out lips finally collide.

He is more aggressive this time as his mouth takes over and dominates. My body responded exactly like last night and I didn't hold back. My hands gripping his hair as his hands tightened around my waist and neck.

"Pardon the interruption My Lord. The car is ready."

I jump out of my skin at hearing the housekeeper's voice. Putting my head against his chest I try to regain my composure and calm down. Sesshomaru is still embracing me and as I think back to what happened as I suddenly burst into laughter.

I feel Sesshomaru pull away and look down at me as I continue to laugh. I put a hand over my mouth and try to stop but I'm just so surprised and happy that I can't stop. Finally I am able to breath again and see that infamous tie loose and his hair is disheveled.

"Well I guess you liked my gift then." I smile as I right his tie. I was waiting for him to explain what had provoked his behavior because I highly doubted it came from just the tie I had bought him. My engagement ring was flaring red but that was obvious since his eyes hadn't changed back.

"Very much." With a small tilt of his lips, he turns to his side and presents his arm. Placing my hand on his arm I follow Sesshomaru as he leads us out the front door towards the car. I could feel a blush spread across my face as we stop so that the housekeeper can help me with my coat. I smile in thanks and he gives me a low bow as we step outside. The driver already has the door open and is waiting for us.

Sesshomaru turns to his side and waits for me to enter first. I slide to the very end and Sesshomaru comes in next to me. Immediately his hand reaches for mine as the door closes.

I look down at our entwined hands before speaking my thoughts. "Are you going to explain what happened back there?" I wait a few seconds before lifting my gaze. Sesshomaru closes the divider in the center of the car to give us more privacy before turning to meet my gaze.

After only a few seconds I'm suddenly ambushed with all of these emotions. The more pronounce being desire and this unquestionable need. It felt like it was pressing against my chest and I didn't know what to do. I just wanted him. To touch, kiss and just be near him. I frown and see that he is still looking at me. "That is only a fraction of what I had been feeling when you explained your gift to me."

Wow. I feel like I want to crawl up on his lap and do more than have a make out session with him!

I bite my lower lip as I think back to how still he had stood as I presented him with my present. Slowly the powerful feeling begin to fade to a small sensation and I can breath easily again. "I don't understand."

"I hadn't realized the significance behind your outfit. You had basically declared yourself as mine in a public way and my instincts took over. A demon's markings is like you said, unique to only the being bearing them. You stating that you wanted mine as well on your body. . .had my demon wanting to give you a more permanent marking."

"Oh." Was it wrong that instead of being concerned I got excited at the prospect of experiencing Sesshomaru without holding himself back. I already knew I wanted him and this life that had been thrown at me.

"Do not worry. I won't lose control." I wasn't worried and I wanted him to know that. I lift our hands and give the back his hand a quick peck. "And if I told you I wanted you not to hold back. I am not afraid and I understand that your Beast is a part of you. That also means that you don't have to block our bond. I want you to see me as someone you can trust with your emotions just like I trust you with mine."

I wait for him to see his reaction, instead I feel it. Contentment and agreement. I smile as I feel his answer but then I also feel his desire. Sesshomaru leans down to brush his lips against me ear. "You shouldn't say such things my Rin. Or else we shall never make it to the party."

With that statement, I tried to not think of the many wicked things I wanted to do to my fiancé. I look out the window and wait for us to arrive at our destination. It wasn't helping that I could feel his gaze on me the entire time.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The party turned out to be a company gathering. The heads of major corporations and wealthy investors were here to mingle and boast about how well there lives were going. One of the important CEO's was here that Sesshomaru and Lord Tashio were planning on forming a business deal with. The hotel was the most prestigious and the three grand ballrooms were decorated like a palace. In the center was a full orchestra with a dance floor and on both sides there were tables, waiters with hor d'oeuvres and champagne. There were tables lined with different pastries that had endless amounts of delicate creations.

For the first hour I was introduced to many of Sesshomaru's partners and business associates. I was so relieved to see Lord Tashio with Lady Izayoi and Inuyasha and Kagome. I had learned from Lady Izayoi that I was required to dance if I was asked so I had already danced five dances by the time I finally had a chance to dance with my fiancé.

Sesshomaru pulls me so close against him that it would be deemed inappropriate if he hadn't been my fiancé. I love being close to him.

"You have been amazing. If you feel the need to leave just say the word."

"That's very thoughtful My Lord, but I know you are waiting for Mr. Evans to come back so you can discuss your business plans. You did mention that was the only reason you were here for." Before we had walked into the ballroom, Sesshomaru explained that Mr. Malcome Evans was the owner and CEO of a booming start-up company. Mr. Evans had many other companies that had placed a bid but Sesshomaru wanted Tashio ENT to be the one to do business with him. I met him about thirty minutes ago but he had to excuse himself because he had to meet someone else.

As the music ends I see Mr. Evans walk back into the room and Sesshomaru leads us toward him. As they greet each other once more, I smile and I am about to excuse myself when a familiar voice sounds behind me.

"What a pleasant surprise. It's been a while since I've seen you Lord Sesshomaru, it's good to know you are well. May I say Lady Rin you look ravishing this evening." I feel Sesshomau tense beside me as I turn around to see the familiar emerald green eyes of one Bastien Valverde. I give a small bow as he takes my hand and gives it a slow kiss. "It's nice to see you again Lord Valverde." I say in a strained voice because he is still holding my hand.

"Well it looks like you gentlemen are quite busy, would you do me the grand honor of being my partner for the next dance Lady Rin?" and just like that I feel the bond disconnect. This time I slowly turn to glare at Sesshomaru so he can see how much I dislike what he just did and the situation I'm currently in. The only choice I had was to be polite and proper which was the last thing I wanted right now. I wait for him to say something but when no response comes I turn back to Lord Valverde.

"The honor is mine." I say with a smile and I turn to give Sesshomaru a look to not worry. I knew he was upset but I also disliked that he was hiding from me again.

As Lord Valverde leads me to the dance floor I refuse to look back at Sesshomaru. It hurt to know that at the first sign of trouble he shuts down our link and now I have no idea what going through his mind.

I really hope I can learn how to control our bond so maybe he knows how I feel. One minute I feel so close to him and then it completely disappears.

The music begins and it's another waltz. I place my hands on his shoulder and hand and wait for him to lead as I look at his neck tie instead of his face. I know Sesshomaru dislikes him but proper etiquette dictates that once asked it's totally disrespectful to refuse a dance unless another partner is already present. I keep my face emotionless as the dance begins, trying to clear my head of the thoughts running through my mind. I can't help but wonder if Lord Valverde really is being friendly or does he have his own agenda.

"I'm hurt Lady Rin. The last time we spoke I thought we were comfortable enough to address one another by first name. Are we back to being strangers then."

I look up into his eyes but he is just like Sesshomaru in which his face gives nothing away.

Why must all demons be so secretive! It's so infuriating.

I decide to be honest because his issues are with my fiancé and he is being polite. "I apologize My Lord, but out of respect to my future husband I think it is better to just be acquaintances." A frown forms on his face and as we turn he spins me out slowly and I make the mistake to look out into the crowd . My eyes meet Sesshomaru's and I just know that he has been watching me the whole time instead of paying attention to Mr. Evans.

I slowly spin back in but Lord Valverde clasps my waist tighter and pulls me until our bodies are flush together. This is not what I wanted so I try to put space between us but his grip on both my waist and hand are firmly keeping me in place. I keep my face from showing my annoyance as he continues to lead. Not wanting to cause a scene especially since it's the first time Sesshomaru has presented me to everyone as his future wife. The last thing I need is to have another reason for him to be mad at me for.

Still I try to express my dislike subtly. "The professional way a dance partner is supposed to dance the waltz is with at least a half a body distance between them." The smirk that appears on his handsome face is the only response. The good thing is that the dance is almost over.

"It's such a shame that you have to worry about your fiancé's insecurities to the point that he dictates who your friends should and shouldn't be." He leans in close that our noses almost touch, "A woman like you has such a vibrant spirit. It should be fueled instead of tamed. Your future husband will only give you so much. He will always be first and foremost the Head of the Tashio Family, anything else will always be second. You will become a piece for his empire nothing more."

I'm left speechless not knowing how to respond. I hadn't expected someone to actually voice my fears and doubts so I continue on autopilot. The music plays the last few strands before Lord Valverde slowly dips me. "Don't waste your life away on a half marriage Lady Rin. If you open your eyes there are others who know how to cherish a wife and support her. You have a line of wealthy, eligible males with myself at the front of it." The music ends and he straights our posture and begins to lead me away from the dance floor. I look over to where Sesshomaru had been standing hoping that he will open our connection, but he is nowhere to be seen.

He left me. Instead of waiting for me or if he really disliked me dancing with Valverde why did he allow it in the first place! Oh yeah. . .he had business to discuss with Evans.

Lord Valverde leans down to bow down and kiss the back of my hand once more. "Think of what I said Lady Rin. You deserve happiness." He gives me a smile that doesn't reach his eyes. As he looks down my body, I see the lust is his eyes and pull my hand away not liking the way he is looking at me. I give a small bow and start walking away. I hate the feelings the conversation brought out because they are my darkest fears said out loud. As I look around for my so called fiancé I realize he is no longer in the main ballroom. I'm about to look for him in the other ballrooms but stop in my tracks.

If he wants me then he can find me.

I take a deep breath and calm my emotions. I don't want Sesshomaru to know what I'm really feeling since he doesn't allow me the same benefit. As I weave through the crowd I see Lady Izayoi near the pastries table. I decide to ask the question I had been thinking so I head over toward her. I get close to her left side and act like I'm really conflicted between what sweets I want. Reaching for a cookie I turn and see she is smiling at me. "My Lady I have a question I have been meaning to ask you." I say in a low voice because half the people here have exceptional hearing.

"You know you can ask me anything my dear. What is troubling you?"

Oh well just the fact that my fiancé is mad at me and ditched me. He has this crazy behavior to disconnect our bond whenever he feels like it without even explaining why. And …oh! Another man basically told me what I fear and offered an alternative?! So besides that and all the confusion I'm completely fine!

I give a strained smile and see Lady Izayoi clasp my hand encouraging me to continue. "Is there a way for me to. . . to block my connection with Sesshomaru? But only for a temporary time!" I quickly finish as I see Lady Izayoi start to frown. Then she does the last thing I expected. She bursts out in laughter.

She covers he mouth as she tries to control it. "I'm so sorry. I just never expected for us to be so alike!" She giggles a few more times and I can't help but join her. Her laugh is so contagious.

"To answer your question, yes there is. I can help you there. Sesshomaru is so much like his father. Let me guess." She leans in closer to whisper and I can't help but feel myself relax. "Sesshomau keeps blocking your bond without explanations. Inu no was the same until I gave him a taste of his own medicine. You have to understand that for a long time Sesshomaru had no reason to share any part of himself and now he is out of his element. Unlike his brother who wears his emotions on his sleeves."

Well in this circumstance Kagome is really lucky she knows exactly what Inuyasha is feeling!

I laugh as I nod in agreement, "I'm so glad I'm not alone! I was beginning to think he might begin to resent me because of all these changes we are experiencing." I don't mention the conversation I had with Lord Valverde because I have enough worries at the moment. Lady Izayoi begins to walk and motions towards the balcony. I nod and look around to see if I can spot Sesshomaru but he is nowhere to be seen.

"It's actually very simple. We will begin the exercises tomorrow. Are you going to stay over at Sesshomaru's or will be joining us." I look out and decide I just want to be alone to think. This hot and cold I keep getting from Sesshomaru is giving me a headache.

"I think it's best for me to head back to Tashio Mansion. There is a reason tradition states it and I want a little alone time." She nods in understanding and we talk some more. She takes my mind off my worries by telling me stories of Inuyasha and Sesshomaru. I think an hour almost passes and I haven't seen or felt anything from Sesshomaru. I excuse myself and head over to the ballrooms that extended over three rooms. Lady Izayoi finds Lord Tashio and whispers to me that they are planning to leave in another hour if I wish a car to be called at that time and I nod in agreement. I'm tired and my feet hurt but I want to find Sesshomaru and talk about Lord Valverde.

I turn the corner and walk into the hall and my heart freezes. There across the room is Sesshomaru with a tall woman that is pressed up against his chest as she rubs his chest and shoulder. I can only see the back of her head as her back is facing me. The only thing that is saving him is the fact that he is looking around not paying attention.

I'm seething and as if sensing my presence his head quickly turns and our finally our eyes meet.

I cross my arms over my chest and lift my brow in a 'What the fuck' motion.

His lips tilt to the side in his version of a smirk and he lifts his brow. Mimicking my motion.

Oh. You want a challenge? Fine.

I slowly approach the two and the closer I get I begin to hear what that. . .FLOOSY is saying. "You know you can always come to me. I know exactly what you like and I miss you so. We all know your marriage is a political move and really a human! Come on Sesshy, it'll be just like old times."

"Yes, come on Sesshy. Tell us when you had to resort to desperate, begging females who apparently don't have any dignity. I thought you had higher standards." I say my eyes never leaving his.

A|N: Thank you so much to those who haven't abandoned this story! Like I said I will finish it and I hope to do it in the next two months! Your reviews pushed me to finish this even though my life has been really busy. As a big sorry for the long wait I wrote an extra long chapter! I promise once finals are over (next week) I will post the next one! I posted a link to Rin's dress and lily on my profile. Again thank you and I hope you enjoyed it! :)))