Disclaimer: This story is based on "Inuyasha," copyrighted by Rumiko Takahashi. No infringement of copyright intended or implied.


Love At First Cry

It was love at first cry.

Inuyasha jittered and danced in place, unable to remain still, unwilling to move. When the newborn let out her first yowl, it was all he could do to not contest Kaede's barrier and break the door down. Beside him, Miroku chuckled, patted his shoulder, tried to make small talk, to no avail. Inuyasha panted, straining his senses, almost dizzy from hyperventilation.

The door slid open. Rin grinned saucily up at him. He didn't quite push her aside, but he had no memory of moving; his eyes fixed on Kaede. Looking up, she smiled, eyes crinkled in amusement. "Sit down, Inuyasha."

He dropped down beside. Picking up the infant, Kaede silently coaxed his arms into the right configuration. "Congratulations, Inuyasha," she said. "You have a daughter."

His and Kagome's. His. He brought the tiny girl up to his face, snuffling, taking in her odor. He licked her face, snuffled again, then lowered her enough study her.

She was his. Unquestionably his. Two white, limp ears nestled in a lavish thatch of white hair. Her eyes were closed, but her nose wrinkled as she snuffled him, and her mouth worked, as if to suckle.

I will protect you, he promised silently.

You will always be loved, you will always be safe, you will never be hungry, you will never be lonely. She would have everything he had not, growing up.

I will protect you.

I will protect you forever.

Tessaiga thrummed.

The hanyo cried.


Author's Note: This was written for the prompt "Lavish" for the Issekiwa LiveJournal Community. It was posted originally on June 3, 2011, and took first.