Moving On

by Energetic Anomaly

With her parents dead & her brother in a coma, Kagome is forced to leave Tokyo for America & live under the roof of a stranger & his ill-tempered son. Dealing with the loss of her family & leaving home, Kagome finds comfort in a new way. Inu/Kag Review! RATING CHANGED TO M: Rating changed due to themes of abuse & future content of adult themes.

11. High School Never Ends

Disclaimer - I really dislike lawyers so I would rather waste my time every chapter with a disclaimer than pay for one of those!

Dedication - The band Zedd, who has a song called Clarity that has really been helping me write.

Author's Note - As of 10/18/14 I have updated the previous 10 chapters, mostly fixing spelling & grammatical errors, and layout issues that a few reviews had pointed out. I did a bit more internal reflection with Kagome here and there, and added a small conversation in chapter 7 about her injuries between her and Inuyasha. Nothing I changed was plot-altering, just clarifying why Kagome is doing what she is doing, how she feels about it and everything. People were wondering perhaps why Kagome was handling this tragedy so well so I included things that I had thought while writing, thinking it would have been clear without explanation (I was wrong, my bad) Like more thoughts and explanations. I hope that those chapters become more enjoyable, clear and easier to read! Thank-you everyone! Enjoy chapter 11!

Chapter Eleven - High School Never Ends

ooo

Kagome snapped open her eyes, and rolled to stare at the softly chiming alarm clock next to her bed. Reaching out, she pressed the button silencing the thing. Sitting up she sighed and ran a hand through her messy hair. It was 5:30 in the morning and the sun was still deeply hidden by the cosmos. It would be another hour and a half at least before the sun was in the sky.

Flipping the blanket back she climbed out of her bed with a stretch and a yawn, wishing to claim a few more hours of sleep but she knew she would need to remain diligent to her morning work-out routine otherwise she would just stop doing it, so no excuses. Grabbing her swimming suit from her dresser she thought about needing to buy another one-piece so she didn't have to wash, or at least rinse and let dry, this one every single day. Slipping her pajamas off she stepped into the suit, shivering at the coolness that touched her skin, already she was missing the warmth of her night clothes.

Tying her hair back, she slipped into her robe and left the bedroom, the silence of the house still unnerving her a bit. Standing there in the hallway clutching her towel, she was thinking. Her and Inuyasha had agreed on swimming every morning before school, but after how tense and well…awkward things had gotten the previous evening she was a little conflicted. Shaking her onyx locks from her eyes, she walked to his bedroom door and knocked briskly.

Where his unexpected anger came from the night before she wasn't really sure, but she was sure she simply wouldn't allow things to become weird between them. Not if she could help it at least. Kagome waited a moment in the quiet of the house, trying to decide to just walk away or knock when the door opened. Inuyasha was standing there, already wearing his swimming trunks and had a towel draped around his shoulder "Sorry, I had to find my towel." He said walking out of his room and shutting the door behind him. Turning to Kagome, he arched his eyebrows at the look on her face "What?" He asked slowly, afraid of the answer.

Kagome just shrugged "I didn't think you were coming is all." She turned to lead the way down the hallway and then down the stairs, letting Inuyasha follow her.

"Why wouldn't I?" He asked in surprise as they descended the steps together.

Kagome glanced at him, surprise and disbelief crossing her face "Really? After yesterday I assumed you wouldn't even want to be around me."

Inuyasha remained in silent thought until they reached the ground floor "Listen, I'm sorry I shouldn't have been so judgmental like that, whatever you want to do with your life is up to you. I guess your response just surprised me."

Kagome turned to look at her companion "I didn't think it would upset you like that honestly, I didn't mean for it to. I was just being honest. I don't think my decision to go back invalidates the time I spend here, or the people I meet here. Plenty of people travel around the world after school, it wasn't meant as a slight. Inuyasha I was born and raised in Tokyo, my family shrine is there, and when I turn 18 it falls under my care and I can't just abandon it. I have duties as a Higurashi, my parents would never forgive me if I simply threw my legacy away."

Inuyasha nodded his head, now that he had taken the time to actually ask her about what motivated her it made sense. Her parents. Of course it was her parents. Everything she did it was either because of her parents or her brother. He sighed and touched her shoulder "I understand Kagome, really I do. Maybe when we graduate, Sango, Miroku and I can come visit your shrine and see everything?"

Kagome smiled softly "I would like that a lot Inuyasha."

The half-demon grinned "So, no more stalling. We have some laps to swim."

Kagome laughed softly and shook her head "It is gonna be cold out isn't it?" She asked as they walked the familiar path through the laundry room. The glass on the door showed the deep darkness of the yard beyond and it just looked cold.

"Yep." Inuyasha said in response as he pulled the door open. Together they ran across the wood. Tossing their towels, and Kagome's robe, on the chairs sitting there they both jumped into the deep end. Kagome just couldn't take the time to climb decorously into the pool via the steps, the air was too cold.

Emerging at roughly the same time, the pair laughed at their own antics. Kagome floated on her back for a moment, enjoying the buoyant warmth. Inuyasha splashed her "Come on lazy, let's do this." Kagome stuck her tongue out at him but didn't respond, she simply rolled and began to swim slow laps. She didn't want to push herself, she had a long day ahead of her and didn't want to risk straining her collar bone or her stitches. She was glad that they had used the dissolving stitches, it meant that she wouldn't have to go to a doctor to get the stitches taken out.

She remembered as she swam laps that she was going to have to ask Inuyasha if he would take her to the hospital after school. She wouldn't ask him to stay or wait for her, maybe she could get some cash and get a taxi. She shook her head, wanting to focus on her swimming. The day had just started, she didn't need to stress herself out already. She was sure the day would hold enough stress for her already.

She worked hard on just emptying her mind as she swam, not wanting to think about anything other than the lifting of her arms and the pulling of her body through the water. It worked for a while. When her side began to ache slightly, she decided it was enough. She coasted back to the shallow end and just drifted there, watching as the eastern edge of the sky began to turn a dusty gray color of pre-dawn. She figured it was about 6 or so now, another hour before the sun came up and then another hour after that before she had to be in class.

Hearing light splashes coming from up behind her, Kagome stood and turned to Inuyasha as he asked "You done?"

Kagome nodded, brushing her hair back "My side is starting to bother me, I really don't want to overdo it today. Last thing I need on my first day of school is to have to go to the ER cause I pulled my stitches or something. Plus I still need to shower and everything." She moved towards the steps, Inuyasha following her "You don't have to stop on my account." She said, glancing back at him.

Inuyasha grinned "This is more fun with another person."

Kagome shook her head "We didn't say one word to each other the entire time we were swimming, how is that any different than swimming alone?"

Inuyasha climbed out of the pool ahead of her and grabbed both towels. As Kagome came up, still in the water from the knees down he handed her the other towel saying "Because I knew you were there, that's how it's different."

Kagome blushed and dried herself off as she emerged from the pool and then grabbed her robe and slipped into that, holding the towel in her arms. Together they walked back into the house and Kagome said "Hey, can I ask you for a favor?"

Inuyasha glanced at her as he ran the towel over his chest one last time, grabbing the stray drops that had fallen from his hair "Yea, what's up?" He tossed the damp towel in the hamper.

Kagome dropped her towel in as well and said "Well, I need to go visit my brother after school today," Inuyasha noticed with interest she said 'need' not 'want' "I know your dad is going to be at work, and so I was wondering if maybe you could drop me off there on the way home? I can get a taxi, or take the bus home or something. So, you don't have to worry about that."

Inuyasha crossed his arms over his chest and smiled down at her "No problem, but I'm not going to make you take a cab back, that will be a waste of money. I can just hang around and wait for you, it isn't any trouble."

Feeling a weigh lift from her shoulders, Kagome smiled "Thank you Inuyasha." She turned and left the laundry room, but instead of heading right back to her room for a shower she changed course and went to the kitchen for some much-needed coffee and food.

"I'll start the coffee this time, grab the cups and creamer?" Inuyasha asked as they entered the kitchen.

Kagome nodded "You hungry? I could go for an omelet, and might as well make two."

Inuyasha turned the faucet off, and carried the full coffee carafe back over to the pot "I could go for some food," Kagome nodded and as Inuyasha finished making the coffee she grabbed a large bowl and some needed ingredients from the fridge. As she set everything out, Inuyasha drifted to her side and watched with interest "Anything I can help with?" He asked.

Kagome looked up at him "Wanna grate some cheese for me?" She had already cracked the eggs and was setting a pan on the stove.

Inuyasha nodded and grabbed the cheese grater from the cupboard and the block of cheese she had grabbed from the fridge and set to grating it into a bowl. Kagome watched him for a moment, he was so focused it was almost comical. Shaking her head she grabbed the cutting board and began dicing the bell peppers "Stop this train, I want to get off and go home again…" She sang softly under her breath as she worked.

Inuyasha looked over at her, done with his own task. He had never heard her really sing, she had a nice voice.

Bringing the bowl over to where Kagome was mixing her ingredients together he smiled and sang lowly "So scared of getting older, I'm only good at being young."

Kagome jumped hearing him sing the same John Mayer song she had just been occupied with, she looked up at him for a moment and then replied in a soft voice "Can't take this speed, it's moving in. Oh I can't cause now I see, I'm never gonna stop this train." She blushed at the look on Inuyasha's face and added the cheese before pouring some of the mixture into the warmed pan, mostly so she wouldn't have to look at the man next to her.

He chuckled softly and went to grab the coffee cups down, carrying them to the coffee pot near Kagome he poured some creamer in them both before pouring the coffee and while the dark haired girl stared at her omelet, spatula in hand, he passed her a cup "Here you go."

Chewing her lip, she smiled at him "Thanks." She sipped the coffee and hummed her appreciation before flipping the omelet. A few minutes later, both of them were sitting at the small table sipping coffee and eating fluffy omelets.

Inuyasha finished his cup of coffee and, as he went to get a refill, said "You need to cook more often, this is a great breakfast."

Kagome grinned at him, but there was that sad look in her eyes again. The grin was a touch forced "My dad was a great cook, my mom too. I had good teachers."

Inuyasha smiled at her as he sat down again, reaching across the table he placed his hand over hers "I'm sorry," Kagome looked up at him through her lashes but shook her head.

Clearing her throat she said softly "Don't be, everything reminds me of them. Or of my brother and well," She paused wanting to put her thoughts from the other day into words "This sadness is my way of holding onto them, keeping their memories fresh. It hurts, but at least I have the memories to hold onto. One day it won't hurt so much, I'm sure. Eventually." She set her fork down and wiped a stray tear from her eye and took a deep breath, trying to stem the tide of tears before they fell.

Inuyasha felt helpless, he wanted to stop her hurting but didn't know how and it sucked. She was trying so hard to be strong, he knew it wouldn't last. Sooner or later, this was all going to become reality and she was going to have a major breakdown. He hoped it would be sooner, so she could begin to fully recover. Sighing, he stroked the back of her hand with his thumb "Kagome…" He said softly.

"Hmm, it smells good in-" Inutashio's voice sounded, startling both teenagers. They jumped and Inuyasha pulled his hand away from Kagome and looked up at his father who had a curious and slightly unhappy look on his face. He cleared his throat but then smiled "I am to assume the coffee and good smells are your doing Kagome?"

Kagome lifted her coffee cup, embarrassed to be caught having such a personal moment with Inuyasha – by his father! She smiled though "Inuyasha made the coffee this morning actually, but yes I made omelets. I can make you one if you would like?"

Inutashio held his hand up and shook his head "Thank you for the offer, but no thank you. I'm not much of a breakfast person, this coffee will be enough." He turned to the coffee pot and as he began to pour the cup Kagome could swear she saw his lips moving but from the weird angle she couldn't be sure. Glancing at Inuyasha, his ears were twitching towards his father and he had a frown on his face.

Inutashio took a sip of his coffee and smiled at the teens "I am going to go and read in my study for a little bit, Kagome? Have a wonderful first day. If you need anything at all today, do not hesitate to call me alright?" He smiled at her before turning to leave the kitchen.

Kagome waited until she heard the older demon go into his study before she looked at her breakfast companion "He said something to you, didn't he?" She kept her voice quiet, just in case Inutashio could still hear them. She figured he would have to focus on eavesdropping to actually hear them at this point though, and that didn't seem like something he would do.

Inuyasha looked at her, startled "W-what? No."

Kagome leaned back, crossing her arms across her chest and just stared at Inuyasha.

"Ok, so yea he did. But don't worry about it ok?"

She narrowed her eyes now, but still didn't say anything.

Sighing, Inuyasha picked up their empty plates and stood before taking them to the sink. With his back to her he muttered "Really Kagome, it doesn't matter. Drop it."

His defensiveness only made her curiosity burn that much stronger and she stood and went over to him. Leaning on the counter she leaned so she could see his face. His expression surprised her, he looked embarrassed. As much as she had felt when Inutashio had walked into the kitchen moments before.

"Inuyasha, please just tell me. I know it has something to do with me otherwise he would have waited until later to speak with you in private, or just said it in front of me at a human level."

"He told me to be careful, with you." Inuyasha looked at her then, an odd emotion in his eyes.

Kagome frowned "Be careful? With me?" Of their own accord her cheeks reddened and she averted her eyes. She pushed off the counter and went to grab her coffee from the table, shaking her head.

Inuyasha turned to face her and leaned back against the sink, his arms crossed over his bare chest "He uh, seems to think – like apparently everyone else around here – that there is, or will be, something between us."

Kagome cleared her throat, feeling awkward and not knowing what to say. So, she took a sip of her coffee and mumbled "Ah, I see."

Inuyasha nodded soberly and then ran a hand over his face, grumbling under his breath.

Kagome was physically unable to meet his eyes after that, so she refilled her coffee and said "I um, I need to go take a shower and get ready, it's already almost 7." She scurried past him and out into the hall. She was up the stairs quickly too, going slow enough to ensure her coffee didn't spill on the light carpet on the stairs.

Once in her room, with the door firmly shut behind her she set the coffee on her dresser and sat down on the edge of her bed. Her and Inuyasha's flirtations were becoming so obvious that even Inutashio was noticing, and he obviously disapproved of any sort of romantic interactions between herself and Inuyasha. She fell back on her bed with a groan at the newest complication. What was she going to do?

Shower that was what. Get ready for school and go to class. Get through her first day as an American student and figure out what was happening with her home life after. With that plan in mind she stood and grabbed her coffee. Drinking the warm liquid as she entered the bathroom she began to tinker with the settings on the monster shower.

Once the water was hot enough, strong enough and the many jets were pointing into good directions, she draining her mug and set it on the counter beside the sink before removing her robe and bathing suit.

Standing before the mirror, she examined the light bruising around her collar bone and grimaced. Inuyasha had been polite in his questions and Miroku and Sango had been nice enough to not even comment. She doubted she would get as lucky that day if anyone else saw it, or the bandage that adorned her side. She touched the edges of the clear tape, it was going to hurt so bad to take that off. The tape was so strong it was water tight, hence her ability to swim and shower with it on.

She thought about her gym class, she would have to discuss with the teacher about her inability to push herself too much. Shaking her head, she climbed into the shower and let the warm jets sooth her frantic mind. As she rubbed shampoo into suds between her palms she thought sadly 'Oh mom, I wish you were here! I am so confused, what do I do?' her experience with boys was very, very limited.

As she worked the suds through her locks she wondered if she could talk to Sango about it. The other young woman obviously realized Inuyasha and Kagome were at least flirty with each other, but did Kagome even want to consider it going farther? She ground her teeth together as she rinsed her hair 'This is not what I said I was going to do today!' She thought angrily.

She had been honest with Inuyasha about not wanting a boyfriend, her life was in shambles and she was going to be an emotional rollercoaster for the next while. What sane guy would want to deal with that? She sighed, she liked spending time with Inuyasha, and he seemed to understand what was happening to her. Miroku and Sango too. But an actual relationship? She leaned her head against the smooth stone of the shower wall and closed her eyes.

"No more thinking." She mumbled and hurried to finish her shower. Once she was out, she towel dried her hair and then wrapped the fluffy cloth around her body and grabbed some mousse from the counter. Flipping her head over, she ran the hair product through her hair to give it body before reaching for the hair dryer. She brushed and dried her hair before flipping her head back over and smiling at the effect. More than just brushing it until it was dry but not as dramatic as her club hair. She giggled at the thought and set about putting on her make-up. Some light foundation highlighted by some jet black liquid eyeliner and a pale bronze eye shadow. A little mascara and lip gloss and she was set.

Readjusting her towel as she walked back into the bedroom, she dug around in her dresser and in a few minutes she was wearing a pair of hot pink boy shorts and a black bra. Comfy, simple. On top of that she slid into a pair of dark denim jeans that fit her like a glove only to flare out at the bottom a little. She walked over to her closet to look through her new shirts and tapped her chin. Pulling out a light brown t-shirt that was loose and slightly bunched in the neck and had only half sleeves. A refined, yet still laid back look. Perfect. She added her black converse to finish her look and smiled at herself in the vanity.

Lifting her messenger bag, a dark brown leather bag with bronze buckles, she made sure she had all of her needed school things in it. "Notebooks, check. Binders, check. Pens and pencils? Check and check." She mumbled the contents as she went through the bag and then set it on her bed before moving to her vanity to don her jewelry. She lifted a silver locket and opened it, her friends had given it to her as a going away present. It held pictures of her family and was shaped like a heart. She smiled as she clipped it behind her neck. On her ears she slipped a rainbow of hoops down through the cartilage and silver ones on the bottom. A brown braided leather necklace fitted with silver words in Japanese kanji adorned her wrist. Love, hope, family.

Grabbing her cropped black leather jacket she slid it on and grabbed her bag once more and left her room. Glancing at her phone, 7:44. "Hmm, new record." She was half way down the first flight of stairs when Inuyasha suddenly appeared beside her, causing her to jump "Jeeze!" She said, placing a hand on her heart and glaring at him.

He looked sheepish "Sorry," He looked her over and smiled, causing her to blush "You look nice," He said, adjusting his own bag on his shoulder.

Kagome looked him up and down herself, he was wearing baggy blue jeans that were lightly faded and a red and white t-shirt in an edgy swirled pattern. His white sneakers from the previous day were once again on his feet. Clearing her throat, Kagome smiled "You too."

On the bottom floor Inuyasha lead the way to his father's office "You ready for today?" He asked as he knocked and then entered the door at his father's heed. She nodded, smiling.

Standing up, Inutashio smiled at the pair. He was already dressed as well Kagome noticed absently as he crossed his arms "Well Kagome, first day." He was smiling at her "Is there anything else you need?"

Kagome shook her head "I think I am all ready," She said as she thought about it and then turned her eyes on Inuyasha "As long as this one plans on giving me a ride to school?" She grinned and the older man chuckled.

"I do hope he will as well, I had planned for that."

Inuyasha crossed his arms and sighed dramatically, but grinned "Fine, I guess I can let you get in the car I am going to be driving and take you to the place I am already going." He winked at her.

Kagome giggled "We better get going, I would hate to be late on my first day."

Inuyasha snorted "The first day is the one day you are allowed to be late!" The look Kagome gave him was hilarious.

Shaking his head, Inutashio said "She is right, you two best be on your way. Have a good first day Kagome."

Nodding to the man Kagome said "Will do, see you later."

The two teens left the office and went straight to the garage where Inuyasha opened the door to the Porsche for her.

Once they were through the gate and heading back to the school, Inuyasha noticed his companion was unnaturally quiet "Hey, you ok?"

Kagome shrugged "Nervous." Was her small answer.

Inuyasha reached over and patted her knee, and when she looked up at him in surprise she saw he was smiling. Obviously he wasn't as fazed by his father's words as she was. He cleared his throat and said "Don't worry, you got Sango, Miroku & myself behind you. You'll do fine."

Kagome smiled shyly at him "Thanks, it means a lot."

They drove the rest of the way in a comfortable silence but Inuyasha could feel her getting more and more nervous as they neared the school and as he parked, she was practically vibrating nerves. When he killed the engine he turned to face her "Kagome, calm down. It's gonna be fine."

Kagome shook her head "I know, sorry. I just can't help it. I keep thinking about my family, what if I totally lose it today and just start crying?" She looked up at him with those big brown eyes, worry filling them.

Inuyasha reached out and touched her cheek "Then you cry, and everything will be ok."

Kagome was at a loss for words, she just stared into those golden eyes "Inuyasha…" She said his name softly, an unnamed emotion in her voice.

His ears twitched her direction and he leaned closer to her, conflicting emotions passing across his face "Yea?"

Just then, a hand hit the driver window – hard. A loud slap that rattled the glass and caused the two teens to jump apart "Inuyasha? Kagome?" She heard Miroku's voice from outside the tinted car and sighed, looking down and away from Inuyasha who was growling.

The half demon got out of the car and glared at the man standing there, his hands up defensively "What did I do?"

Sango walked up "You, Miroku, are a moron." She leaned against the back of the sports car and watched with interest as Inuyasha went around and opened the door for Kagome, who had red stained cheeks. She arched an eyebrow at her friend who just shook her head.

Once all four teens were standing together at the back of the car, Sango requested Kagome's schedule, Kagome said as she dug it out of her bag "Inuyasha and I have almost all of our classes together, it is such a relief. Gonna be just me myself and I in Study Hall though. Oh well." She held the paper out to the other brunette.

Sango grinned as her eyes flashed over the page "No it won't, you have Study Hall with me!" She smiled as she handed Kagome back the schedule.

As Kagome returned the paper to her bag, the group began to walk to the school "I am so happy I won't have to be alone," Kagome said grinning at them all, feeling the nervousness lifting off her chest.

As they stepped onto the sidewalk, a large black SUV roared into the stretch of road where they had just been and Sango rolled her eyes "Great, I was just having a good morning too."

The passenger door opened and the four watched as Kikyo macked on the pale man who was behind the wheel before hopping out. "See ya babe!" She said as he winked and once she shut the door he drove off.

Staring at the four, Kikyo crossed her arms across her chest "Oh, so not only does she live with you but now she is going to follow us everywhere?" There was a touch of a whine in Kikyo's voice as she moved to Inuyasha's side, pushing Miroku out of the way in the process.

Inuyasha backed away from her, bumping into Kagome in the process "Shut up Kikyo, I am so not dealing with your shit today. Come on Kagome, we got class." He turned and took her hand, pulling her along the sidewalk and up the front steps they climbed the day before. Once they were inside the building, and far away from the gaping face of Kikyo who was currently being berated by an angry Sango, Inuyasha released Kagome and turned to face her "I'm sorry about her, I wish I could say she will eventually ease off but I don't see that happening." He angrily ran his hand through his hair and sighed.

Kagome was looking at the floor, she was aware of the few people glancing their way – she was new, different. And with Inuyasha. The half demon realized this and smiled at her "Kagome, people are gonna stare. Get used to it."

She laughed and looked up at him "I know, it is just one thing to know it and another to experience it. And don't worry about Kikyo, she doesn't concern me." She tipped her head to the side "So, class?"

Inuyasha nodded and lead his way down the hall, Kagome followed him at his side, recalling their trip through the empty halls the day before. What a difference a few thousand kids made! Since she didn't have anything to drop off yet, they by-passed her locker and went to Inuyasha's. She leaned against the neighboring one as he fiddled with the combo and then opened it, putting his bag away and withdrawing a few needed things.

Once they were walking to class, Kagome looked around her and saw more than a few people looking at her with interest, it was unnerving. A young woman walked up on her other side out of nowhere and beamed at her. She was pale and had these large green eyes that were beautiful and thick red hair pulled up into two gravity-defying pigtails.

"Hi! I'm Ayame! You must be Kagome right? Sango told me about you, so how did my dress fit you?" She asked, not pausing between questions or subjects.

Kagome just blinked at her "Um…"

Inuyasha leaned around her "Kagome, this is Ayame. She is a little overwhelming but we love her all the same, now her stalk-ee…" He winked at the wolf demon, and demon Kagome saw she was for when she pouted, a fang stuck out the side of her lip making her appear younger.

"I do not stalk Koga you big meanie!" She stuck her tongue out at Inuyasha who just laughed.

Kagome smiled "It's nice to meet you, and the dress fit perfectly. I can bring it with me tomorrow to give back to you?"

Ayame nodded "That works for me, oh there is Koga. Gotta run!" She was as gone as soon as she had arrived and Kagome turned to just stare at Inuyasha.

Seeing the look on her face Inuyasha laughed "Yea, her you might have to get used to. She means well though. She loves literally everyone, sadly enough that includes Kikyo. They are cheerleaders together."

Kagome shook her head "She was just a lot to take in all of a sudden."

Inuyasha patted her on the shoulder before opening the door to their first class, math. Kagome sighed as he removed his hand, and followed him into the class. There were already a few kids in there, most of them were chatting with one another though, and a silence fell over them as the pair walked in. Quickly though, curious whispers erupted.

Kagome blushed as Inuyasha led her to the teacher, a tall African American woman with the most beautiful hazel eyes Kagome had ever seen and such a welcoming smile, Kagome couldn't help but relax.

"Oh, the new student? Wonderful to meet you! I am Mrs. Prescott." She said extending a hand to Kagome.

"Thank you, it's nice to meet you too. I'm Kagome." Kagome said shyly, shaking her hand.

The woman smiled and retrieved a book from her desk and handed it to Kagome "Here is your book, Kagome, we use it every day so please always bring it." She said as Kagome accepted the book with a nod "I won't embarrass you by making you stand up here in front of the class, plenty of your other teachers will do that. My seating arrangement is, basically sit where you like but if it gets unruly I will give you a spot. So behave."

Kagome smiled and nodded once more "Will do, Mrs. Prescott." She turned and went to where Inuyasha was sitting and claimed the desk beside him. A pair of girls in front of them turned to glance at her, but smiled warmly before returning to their conversation.

A blonde haired young man walked up and leaned against her desk as she got out her notebook and a pen, startling her. He grinned at her with perfectly straight teeth "Hey there, you must be new here. I'm Adam."

Kagome smiled softly "I am, my name is Kagome." She held her hand out and he shook it. Just then the bell rang and a few more students began to trickle into class "Better get to my seat, see ya around Kagome." He smiled at her and went to sit with a few friends across the room.

"You got them falling all over you," Inuyasha joked as he flipped open his book to the page written on the board.

Hearing something off in his voice, Kagome glanced at him but he was looked at the book before him. Frowning, Kagome followed suit.

The class was blissfully short, despite the teacher being fantastic and none of the other students really bothering her, Kagome still didn't like math all that much. The woman used fun ways to teach the concepts of probability and statistics though, mostly through gambling analogies. She was even telling them how that Friday was going to be a gambling day in class. To see how well they knew what they were learning, she said with a very broad wink.

As the bell rang, Kagome finished writing her homework down in the planner she had been given and then loaded all of her things into her notebook. The tall blonde student from before came over again, this time with his friend and said "Kagome, I wanted to introduce you to Jose. Jose, this is Kagome." The shy boy next to Adam waved a little, he was a handsome Hispanic boy with dark eyes and a shock of bright green through his black hair.

"Nice to meet you Jose," She held her hand out to shake and he did so. Inuyasha stood from his seat, behind the pair of boys and Kagome looked up at him with a smile which caused the two of her companions to glance up as well and right into the face of a half-demon.

Jose gulped but Adam simply smiled "Hey Inuyasha, you met Kagome yet?" He obviously hadn't seen the pair enter the class together.

Kagome giggled, getting odd looks from both Jose and Adam, but remained silent – letting Inuyasha explain how well they actually did know each other.

Inuyasha smirked, crossing his large arms across his chest "Heh, ya. I know Kagome. We kinda live together after all."

Adam's blue eyes widened and he turned to Kagome, looking crestfallen so Kagome felt like she had to explain "His dad is my guardian." She didn't want to elaborate further, it was too early for this.

Inuyasha nodded his head and when Adam looked like he wanted to ask more questions the half demon shook his head "Hey Kagome, we have English and Miroku is in that one with us. So if we don't get there early enough so all three of us can sit together he is going to pout. Let's go."

The look of relief on Kagome's face hurt his heart, she really was that terrified of being questioned.

Kagome nodded her head and laughed a bit, though to Inuyasha's ears it sounded a little forced "We wouldn't want Miroku to get his feelings hurt." She smiled at Adam and Jose "Nice meeting you both, see you later." She slipped through them and walked out of the classroom with Inuyasha right behind her.

Once they were clear of the classroom Kagome said "Thanks Inuyasha, for getting us out of there. He was practically burning with curiosity when he heard that your dad is my guardian." She shook her head, knowing it would only get worse before it got better.

Inuyasha shrugged "I noticed, that is why I intervened. We don't have to tell more people that my dad is your guardian; just that we live together. Because they are gonna want to know how we know each other."

Kagome bit her lip "Yea, but then people are going to assume that we are…well…" She trailed off, embarrassed.

Chuckling, Inuyasha finished for her "Together?"

Kagome sighed "A lot of people are going to assume that either way I suppose," She glanced up at him "Your dad certainly thinks something is up." They hadn't really talked about it since he told her what his father had said and it was killing her. Sure, she had decided to deal with it all later, but the subject just kept coming up.

Inuyasha sighed "Yea, I know." He shook his head as they exited the first building and were crossing the quad.

Kagome looked over at the fountain they had played at the day before, the memory making her smile. Inuyasha followed her gaze and smiled too.

Pausing next to that fountain, Kagome dipped her fingers in and said "I don't want to feed people false information, or only partially true information. That is how rumors start and I don't really want to deal with that. If they ask for more details, well I can tell them that either it is just a long story or that it is personal. I-I don't have to tell everyone what happened." Her throat was getting tight with unshed tears and she shook her head.

Inuyasha rubbed her back "Whatever you want to do, I will go along with it. And I can help you avoid more questions ok?"

Kagome nodded and blinked her eyes rapidly to dry them, hoping her makeup wasn't smudged. Together they ended up at their English class where Miroku had already snagged them a few seats. Kagome waved at him as her and Inuyasha went up the teacher as he wrote on the white board "Mr. Hendricks?"

The man turned around, he was wiry and very young. A mess of reddish brown hair and brown eyes covered by black framed glasses "Hello Inuyasha, ah and this must be our new student! Welcome, welcome Kagome. Glad to have you here with us."

Kagome smiled at the teacher and his obviously enthusiastic ways and when he handed her a book of poetry and an English text book, she was a little excited. She loved poetry.

As if sensing their shared passion for the poetry book, Mr. Hendricks winked at her "Great read here, right now we are going over some Poe, The Raven, specifically. Familiar with it?"

Kagome nodded and when Inuyasha offered to take her bag to go claim their seats next to Inuyasha, she blushed and allowed him to take it before turning back to the teacher who was eying her with a knowing smile "Handsome half demon there, nice kid. Anyways. I would suggest re-reading the poem so it is fresh in your brain," He tapped his temple as he spoke.

Kagome blushed, knowing her house mate could more than hear the teacher. The look in the teacher's eyes said he knew it too. Kagome shook her head "I will be sure to read it tonight, thank you." She turned and went to sit at a table between Inuyasha and Miroku. Unlike math, where students each had individual desks here groups of three sat at tables.

As she got settled, Miroku propped his elbow on her shoulder and asked with a large grin "How are you liking your first day Kagome?"

The girl smiled at him "So far so good, but it is only second period so there is still tons of time for something to go wrong."

Miroku laughed and just then the bell rang and the teacher called the class to order. Inuyasha leaned in close to Kagome and whispered, his breath stirring the hair around her ear "Mr. Hendricks is a good teacher, but kinda funny. Don't mind him." Kagome nodded her head without looking up at him, afraid her cheeks would be red.

Miroku had his chair leaned back on two legs, and his fingers laced behind his head so when Inuyasha glanced at him over Kagome's head, he arched an eyebrow and then wiggled them suggestively. Inuyasha narrowed his eyes and reached behind Kagome's back and shoved Miroku just enough to push his off balance. He and his chair fell back with a crash that first startled, and then amused the class around them.

The teacher had to work to get the class back to order, especially when Miroku stood and gave a bow. A few students held up pieces of paper with numbers scribbled on them as if scoring cards. The room erupted into laughs again.

Kagome looked over at Inuyasha, who was slouched in his seat, his arms crossed over his chest and looking very smug. She arched an eyebrow at him and he grinned in response.

The rest of the class went just as well and Kagome felt herself really smiling as the class wore on. Mr. Hendricks was a hilarious, but really intelligent man. He had a unique insight to things and didn't belittle his student's ideas and opinions either.

As the hour long class rolled to an end, Kagome was almost completely relaxed. She had spoken with a few other students when they had been released from lecture to work in small groups and most people seemed to be decent enough. Shouldering her bag, she followed her two friends from the room and saw Sango waiting for them in the hall, leaning against the wall opposite the door.

Kagome went over to her side and the two girls linked arms laughing before Sango said "I got it from here Inuyasha, you boys go make bird houses and what not. Kagome will be safe with me."

Inuyasha fidgeted for a second and asked Kagome "You remember where shop class is in case you need me for anything?"

Kagome smiled and nodded her head.

Sango rolled her eyes "I know where it is too you big oaf. If zombies or the plague occur in the next hour, one of us will be able to find you. Now shoo." She waved them away and then led Kagome down the next hall with a laugh "That boy I swear."

Kagome nodded "He is taking his duties very seriously, though I really do appreciate it. I don't mind some girl time though…"

Sango looked at her from the corner of her eye "I feel like that might be because you want to talk about something without a certain silver haired hanyou hearing you? Or maybe you want to talk about a certain silver haired hanyou!" Seeing the look on Kagome's face Sango gaped at her "What happened?"

Kagome shook her head "No, no nothing happened – well I mean not like you are thinking." She sighed and shook her head "I don't know, things are just sort of…happening with us. I've only known him for like four days. But we're already really close, and he says and does these things that are just really sweet. I'm so confused."

Sango shook her head "Kagome, Inuyasha is as out of touch with dating as you seem to be. He pretty much hasn't had a girlfriend all of high school, he took a girl to homecoming sophomore year and Kikyo dumped punch down the front of her dress and made a huge scene. It was awful, since then he hasn't really wanted to try to be with anyone. But, you two are cute together. I don't see what the problem is."

They were entering the classroom now and Sango escorted her to the front of the class and introduced her to the teacher "Mr. Jameson this is Kagome, the new student."

Kagome removed her arm from Sango's and shook hands with the teacher who smiled "Nice to meet you Kagome, now I see that you and Sango know one another already so go ahead and sit with her. I don't mind people conversing while they work, so long as they are working. This is study hall, not chatter hall."

Kagome nodded "Understood sir, I would much rather suffer through my math homework here than at home." That earned her a chuckle from the teacher and the two girls went to the bar-height tables in the back of the room and set their bags on the empty space around them. As Kagome began pulling her math book, notebook and planner out she said to Sango "The problem is that I don't need to be thinking about having a relationship with anyone right now. I mean," Her voice lowered to a whisper "With everything that is going on with me right now, I can't focus on keeping another person happy. And how do you explain something like this to someone? How do you expect them to be ok with random, dramatic mood swings and constant crying?"

Sango was flipping through her history text book and replied without even looking up "Do you even need to explain anything to Inuyasha? Seems like he is already very much so aware of your situation, and your mood swings and everything and it doesn't seem to bother him any. He is willing to put up with all of that, and you seem willing to put up with Kikyo." She pulled her pen bag out and began tapping her book in thought "I don't think you really need to put much thought into it, seems to me that things are progressing all on their own. Just go with the flow, do your homework and work on healing." She looked up at her friend with a gentle smile "Maybe this is just what you need, someone who already knows and is obviously interested in you. He knows about those skeletons in your closet and isn't judging you for them."

Kagome's head was spinning as she set about doing her math homework.

Given that both of them had homework from their morning classes, they finished the rest of study hall in a comfortable silence. Sango knew she had given Kagome a lot to think on and wanted to let her think about it without any more prodding from her end.

The girls were already putting their things away when the bell rang and as they left the class the teacher waved and Kagome smiled "So lunch?" She asked as they emerged into the halls.

Sango who nodded "Sorry, but Kikyo is probably going to sit with us. She does every so often to fawn over Inuyasha, but given that you are here she will for sure be there." Sango shook her head in disgust.

Not wanting to push the boundaries, but wanting to know, Kagome asked "Why do you let her hang out with you if you all hate her so much?"

Sango shook her head "She's family. Something all of us have lost, we can't just kick her to the curb. She is stalker-ish and rude, but she hasn't crossed any lines that demand me to disown her, and Inuyasha has never asked me to do that. I feel terrible cause she is my family, but…" She shook her head again, unsure of what to say.

As they neared the lunch room, Inuyasha appeared next to them, having obviously come to meet with them before heading to lunch. Both girls just glanced at him, but Kagome said "How was shop? Build any birdhouses?"

Inuyasha scowled playfully at her "No, I am in advanced shop. We're past the bird house stage. We are just starting our new projects that are part of our final."

Kagome giggled at his defensiveness "Moving up to dog houses then?"

Sango laughed at the look on Inuyasha's face and then he growled at them both, ensuring more laughter from them both.

The girls were still laughing when they got in line to get their food, Miroku was already at their table having brought food from home. When he saw them, he waved. The girls waved back and Inuyasha flipped him off. Seeing it, Kagome smacked his arm "You are so rude."

Shrugging, Inuyasha grabbed a tray and said "I know." He grinned at her and she smiled, rolling her eyes.

As Sango grabbed her silverware, she watched the pair in front of her with silent amusement.

Kagome was amazed at the amount of food Inuyasha piled onto his plate. Shaking her head she built a giant salad with all the works. Paying for their meals at the end, they walked over towards the table Miroku had claimed. As they crossed the cafeteria, Kikyo walked up to Inuyasha and hung on his arm "Oh Inu, so cute of you to play chaperone but really why don't you come sit with me and the girls?" She looked back at her table of cheerleaders who were talking animatedly about something or another.

Inuyasha shrugged her off "No thanks Kikyo, I prefer to sit with my friends. You go ahead though." Annoyance dripped from his every word.

Kikyo sighed "Oh Inu! I can't leave you like that, what would people think? I will get my food and come keep you company." Before Inuyasha could object Kikyo had slipped away and back to her table. Grumbling, Inuyasha took a seat on the small round table next to Miroku. Kagome slipped in next to Inuyasha, and Sango fell in beside her – successfully blocking Kikyo from being able to sit next to either Inuyasha for her stalker purposes or Kagome for her bitchy ones. They all wore victorious smiles as Kikyo came back to the table and pouted at the seating arrangement.

Unfazed she sat directly across from Inuyasha and batted her eyelashes at him as she ate. Feeling him shift uncomfortable, his leg bumping into hers, Kagome assumed she was attempting to play footsy with him as well. Feeling annoyance and blatant disgust, Kagome moved as if she were going to stand up for something and 'slipped'. Her foot slid across the linoleum floor under the table to step hard on Kikyo's flip-flop clad toes.

Kikyo yelped in pain and surprise before narrowing her eyes dangerously at Kagome who stared at her with wide eyes "I'm sorry! I slipped, did I get your foot? You might want to get that checked out by the nurse. Toes break really easy."

Everyone else watched with bated breaths as Kikyo thought about her response. Eventually she took a deep breath and said "I'm fine, I'm fine." She went back to eating, but left Inuyasha alone.

Feeling happy, Kagome started to eat her food as Sango and Miroku debating about something around her. She had one hand resting on the bench between her and Inuyasha and a moment later she felt his hand brush hers.

Looking up at him, he glanced her way and smiled briefly, winking. A silent thank you. She smiled and asked Sango something about her family, and their lunch continued without incident. Kikyo was unnaturally quiet, but nobody was going to complain. Sango did notice that her cousin was watching Kagome and Inuyasha with more interest than was comfortable, and she hoped that Kagome was as strong willed against Kikyo as she said she was.

As lunch came to an end, Kagome sighed and commented "I am nervous about gym, I am only allowed to do so much."

Sango patted her shoulder "She won't push you, plus you'll need a uniform before you can get involved either way. So you have a few more days to heal up before you are put to it. She might just let you observe, and maybe do some homework while you do."

Miroku and Inuyasha were nodding in agreement, but Kikyo was staring at Kagome with an annoyed look on her face "What do you mean you can only do so much? You look fine."

Everyone just stared at her, surprise and shock making them silent for a moment before Miroku spoke up "Seriously Kikyo? Kagome was in a really bad car accident three weeks ago. You need to watch what you say."

Kagome looked down at her empty tray, tears welling up in her eyes. Sango stood "Kikyo, with me. Now." The steely tone in her voice was hard to ignore and Kikyo slowly stood and followed her cousin to where they dropped their trays off and then out of the lunch room. Miroku stood too, and offered to take Inuyasha and Kagome's empty trays with him. Inuyasha nodded and put a hand on Kagome's shoulder, feeling her tremble with repressed sobs.

People were trickling out of the lunch room as students prepared to go to class, so Inuyasha was comfortable with wrapping his arms around Kagome and holding her. She continued to tremble, but she didn't cry. He knew it wasn't good for her to keep all of this in, but he wasn't going to push her. He stroked her back, shushing her until she calmed down.

As Kagome leaned back, Inuyasha saw her eyes were still damp and lightly red tinted and he sighed. She bit her lip and shook her head before whispering "I'm sorry."

Inuyasha chuckled, shaking his head "Kagome don't even worry about it ok?" He brushed a piece of her hair back and stood, holding his hand out "Let's go to gym, you get to watch while the rest of us run around like morons."

Kagome took his hand, recalling his chiseled form from their swimming adventures and blushed but didn't comment. They walked to the gym and made it just in time, most of the other students were already in the locker room changing so Inuyasha left Kagome with the coach and went to the men's locker room to get dressed.

"So, since we don't have a uniform for you today I will let you sit out." The woman said, sitting on the bottom of the bleachers. She had introduced herself as Coach Nivens, but told Kagome just to call her 'coach' she was a shorter woman with long red hair that was pulled back into a pony-tail and she seemed like a bulldog. Kagome would never, ever disobey her that was for sure.

"If you would like," Coach continued "You can bring in some gym clothes of your own until we get you the uniform, that way you are doing something. Now, they need to be school appropriate. This was why we have a uniform. Sports bras and spanks are not ok, but try telling that to everyone." She shook her head.

Kagome giggled "Can I wear a tank-top and cheer shorts?"

The woman nodded as some other students began coming from the locker rooms and said softly to Kagome "I am aware of your situation, so don't hesitate to let me know when you feel like there is something you can't do. I can be discreet ok?" Her smile was sad and Kagome nodded before pulling her poetry book from her bag that was sitting next to her on the bleachers.

Coach got up then and shouted to the assembled group, the bell having just rang "Ok boys and girls! Presidential fitness is right around the corner, so we are going to do a mock P.F.! Practice whatever area you think you need to work on, running or pull ups or stretching – just keep moving!"

The students broke up into groups, some started to jog around the gym floor while others took to the pull-up bars in the corner. Inuyasha was part of the latter group, and Kagome was distracted from her reading as she watched him. Kikyo was running laps with some of the other girls and Sango and Miroku were assisting each other with sit-ups, currently Sango was holding Miroku's feet down and keeping count.

Kagome rolled her shoulder, wishing she could be free of the wounds already. Sighing she tried to focus on the words of Edgar Allen Poe, but kept looking up at her housemate and getting distracted by his athletic abilities. When he dropped off the pull-up bar, he turned and looked at her. Seeing her staring he grinned and waved, Kagome blushed and meekly waved back before going back to her reading.

Looking up through her eyelashes she saw a few other guys from the class mocking him by waving at each other and them pretending to make out, her blush deepened.

She spent the better part of the class trying to read her poetry book, and fail as Inuyasha did something to catch her attention. After about a half hour of this she took her phone out and send a text to her friends, who were currently probably asleep, given that it was only 5am…but she didn't care. She needed to tell them how much she missed them.

'I miss you guys so much! Half way through my first day of school & it just isn't the same! Love you!'

Pressing send she put the phone back in her pocket, she watched as Miroku attempted to pull himself up on the pull-up bar, only to have Sango tickle him, causing him to fall. She giggled at that and had just gone back to her reading when Inuyasha sat down beside her, grinning and panting slightly.

"Well hello there." She said with a laugh "You look like you just ran, a lot."

Inuyasha was rubbing his face with a towel and said "I did, you just didn't see it. Garrett over there, is a tiger demon and we raced. He won of course, being a full demon but it was fun to try and beat him." He smiled at her and she smiled back "I'm exhausted now though, so I am taking a break."

Kagome pulled a water bottle from her bag and held it out to him "Drink?"

Inuyasha lit up and accepted the bottle happily and took a long drink, Kagome giggled at him as he recapped the bottle and handed it back "Thanks."

"Glad I could help."

They sat there for a moment more before Inuyasha sighed "I should probably get my butt going, Coach hates to see us sitting around. Says we do that for the rest of the day. For one hour we have to move." He made a face and stood "But hey, only two classes left and then we can go home." He turned and went back out onto the floor.

Kagome was finally able to focus on her book and read through a handful of poems before the students were dismissed to shower and change. As Kagome put her water bottle and book away, Coach came back over to her "How are you settling in with Inuyasha and his father?"

Kagome smiled, lifting her bag and draping it around herself "Pretty good actually, I mean better than I expected. They have been really great to me. Inuyasha even introduced me to some of his friends, and they are really nice." The woman nodded her head, smiling.

"I like Inuyasha, he is as stubborn as I am and I appreciate the enthusiasm he has for my class." Just then, the mentioned half-demon came through the doors, dressed and ready for the rest of the day. Coach nodded to him and went to her office that was positioned between the two locker rooms.

Inuyasha sat beside Kagome again and said "Ready for history?"

Nodding, Kagome replied "Yea, today hasn't been nearly as bad as I thought it would be. People have been really nice to me." She smiled at Inuyasha and he returned it.

Inuyasha set his hand down on top of Kagome's and said "I'm glad everything is going so well."

Kagome looked down at their hands and took a deep breath before saying, looking right at Inuyasha "Thinks are going better than I could have hoped for, all things considered."

Inuyasha swallowed hard, knowing her words weren't just about classes or the other students. His ears twitched towards the locker rooms and he straightened as the other students all began to emerge, the bell ringing. He sighed and withdrew his hand before standing up, offering his hand once more to assist her. Taking it, she let him pull her to her feet "History class ahoy," She said.

Inuyasha laughed, leading her towards the doors. He didn't bother waiting for Sango or Miroku to arrive, because neither of them had history next.

The only differences the next class had that Kagome could notice was that for one, the teacher, Mr. Waters, was a demon. The only one of her teachers so far who wasn't human. She didn't mind, rather it was just an interesting difference. The second being that there was a seating chart, so she wasn't able to sit next to Inuyasha. Ironically enough, she sat across the room from him and next to Adam. The large window was on her other side.

Adam reminded her a little of Hojo from back home, he was so friendly it almost hurt. But, better than sitting next to someone rude she figured. As Adam enthusiastically took notes, Kagome glanced over at Inuyasha who seemed to be doodling on the edge of his notebook more than anything, she giggled softly and his ears twitched her way before his eyes found hers and a smile graced his features.

Kagome returned the smile before turning her eyes back to the board to continue taking her own notes. Once Mr. Waters was done lecturing them on the prohibition and the awesomeness of the roaring 20s he handed out the assignment sheets saying "Ok, so we have been learning a lot about the music and magic of the 20s the last few weeks, time to show me what you know. I want everyone to partner up, and you and your partner are going to do comprehensive projects. I want you to show me the music, the art, the laws, the people, the places – everything there is about the 20s that made it interesting and you are going to present it to the class. This is going to be a part of your final, so think carefully about your partner. These projects will be presented right before Thanksgiving break, and then we move onto studying for the final. Now you will get a few class days to work on it but I want this to mostly be an outside of class project. Got it? Now grab your partners and get going."

Students began to drag chairs and desk around to sit with their friends, and the teacher came to talk to Kagome. Crouching down beside her desk as she read the paper on the project requirements he said "I know this is all a little new to you Kagome, so make sure you get a good partner. I'll be mindful of your new-ness when grading, but I would strongly suggest reading back some in the text book." He tapped the closed book with a clawed finger as he spoke.

Kagome beamed at him "I will do that, and I'll get notes from the last few classes from someone to have." The man nodded and went back to his desk.

Inuyasha had been hovering behind him, his bag over his shoulder and smiled at Kagome as she looked back to the paper, not seeing him yet.

Adam cleared his throat and she looked at him, curious. "What's up Adam?"

Before the blonde human could speak, Inuyasha interrupted. He knew what Adam was about to ask Kagome and wasn't about to let it happen. Grabbing a chair and spinning it around to face Kagome he sat in front of her desk and winked "Howdy, partner."

Kagome snorted, shaking her head "You, Inuyasha, are a dork. You sure you want me as a partner? I haven't been here learning the material, you might have to carry me."

Leaning forward, Inuyasha smirked at her "I've carried you before, so I'm ok with that."

Kagome blushed and bit her lip before looking to Adam and smiling "What were you gonna say Adam?"

The man just shook his head and smiled "I was gonna see if you wanted to copy any of my notes, to help out. I know it can be tough coming to a new school in the middle of the year. I can make copies of all the prohibition notes I have and bring them tomorrow?"

Kagome's smile was breath-taking and she nodded "That would be so fantastic Adam, thank you!"

Adam nodded and stood, going to sit with another friend of his.

Inuyasha watched the blonde with an arched eyebrow, surprised at how willingly he backed down. Shrugging, he turned back to Kagome "So, the 20s. Gangsters and flappers."

Kagome smiled "I vote on presentation day, we dress up. Any Halloween supply store will have them, ooh and they can double as Halloween costumes. Yay for dovetailing!"

Inuyasha chuckled, shaking his head "Sounds like a plan to me. So where do we start…?"

The rest of class flew by, and when the bell finally rang the pair had a great bunch of ideas in mind for their project. As Kagome lifted her bag onto her shoulder and Inuyasha put his chair back where it belonged he said "Sorry to inform you, but next is Biology and Kikyo is in that class. But, on the plus side so are Miroku and Sango."

Kagome sighed, shaking her head as they walked out of class "She is starting to really bother me, I don't know how you all put up with her for so long."

Inuyasha snorted "We have tried every possible way to make her go away, she just won't and I can't ask Sango to force her to leave us alone. She's already lost a lot of family, I won't make her get rid of even the annoying ones."

Kagome nodding "Sango said the same thing in study hall."

Inuyasha glanced her way as they walked down the hall, wondering what else Sango said in study hall. As if talking about her summoned her, Sango and Miroku came from down the hall next to them and together the four of them went to Biology class.

"Who are your guy's partners for the history project?" Kagome asked the two new members of the group as they went along.

Sango spoke up first "A girl named Erin, really nice. Really smart too so I got lucky."

Miroku shook his head "Kikyo seriously tried to be my partner, I told her off and am working with Steve. You don't know him either. Nice enough guy though. What about you guys?"

Sango snorted, but Kagome ignored her "We're working together."

Miroku smiled, and when Sango asked Kagome something about the project the brunette male nudged Inuyasha and winked at him. Inuyasha shoved him into the wall of lockers and kept walking. Both girls turned to look at them with curious and amused looks.

Laughing, Sango called "You ok Miroku?"

The man stood up and jogged to catch up "Yup. Fine."

Laughing, they all went to Biology. Miroku and Sango went to the back of the room to claim enough seats for the four of them, and hopefully leaving not enough room for Kikyo while Inuyasha introduced her to the teacher.

"Mr. Banner?" Inuyasha said, getting the attention of the man writing on the chalk board – the first non-white board Kagome had seen all day.

The teacher was human, stocky and very fit – looking more like he should be the P.E. teacher than the biology teacher. Kagome also realized he was younger too, maybe in his 30s? What was up with this school and its younger teachers? He had dirty blonde hair cropped short and dark green eyes.

He smiled at Kagome and Inuyasha and said "Ah, hello. Kagome right? I'm Mr. Banner. It is nice to meet you, welcome to San Francisco." He smiled and shook hands with Kagome before handing her a text book form the shelf "You can use this one, now normally I just allow the students to keep their books here in the class room unless there is a reading assignment, or homework that requires the book. But you can take it with you if you want. Whatever helps you learn best."

Kagome accepted the book and smiled "Thanks, it will be nice not to have another book to lug around every day."

Mr. Banner laughed at her "I agree, so my room has an open seating chart so please sit where you like."

Kagome nodded and together her and Inuyasha went back to join Sango and Miroku, once again Sango and Miroku took the outer edges of the group to bar Kikyo from getting to sit beside either Inuyasha or Kagome. Kagome smiled a little at that as Kikyo came into the room. Seats were filling rapidly and she looked annoyed when she found them at the back of the room. Even the seat in front of Inuyasha had been claimed so Kikyo was forced to sit on the other side of Sango – much farther from Inuyasha than she was hoping.

Inuyasha and Kagome exchanged glances and smiles as Mr. Banner called the class to order.

As Kagome began to copy down the notes on advanced cellular structure, she sighed thinking about her life. It was so different now, but was it entirely bad? Of course she would give it all up for her parents to be alive and her brother to be ok, but like she said to Inuyasha…all things considered she was doing alright.

She had good friends in Miroku and Sango; and well whatever was happening with her and Inuyasha was not unpleasant. Then there was Mr. Takashi, who was probably the best choice for guardians she could ask for. The only dark spot was Kikyo, and mostly because she was an unknown and Kagome was worried. Kikyo had to notice whatever was between Inuyasha and Kagome as much as Sango did. Kagome doubted there was anything about Inuyasha that Kikyo didn't realize. If anything did really come to be with them, what kind of fresh hell would Kikyo cause?

As the class wore on, Kagome began to pay less and less attention to biology. Inuyasha took notice to that and lightly tapped her foot with his. Kagome jolted and turned to look at him, confusion on her face. Inuyasha flipped to a fresh page in his notebook and wrote something before handing the entire notebook to her.

Kagome suppressed a giggle. They were passing notes?

'You ok?'

'Yup. Sorry, just spacing out.'

'Ok. Good. Better pay attention though!'

'Yea, yea. Thanks. MOM'

'Hey, just trying to keep you from getting in trouble on your first day.'

'I thought the first day was the one day I could get away with pretty much anything?'

Inuyasha was fighting his laughter and Kagome was in a much more relaxed, and much better mood. When she looked up to continue with the science notes, she realized Mr. Banner was watching her with a curious and amused look. She blushed and mouthed 'sorry' to him. His smile widened and he nodded to her before returning to his notes on the board.

Kagome glanced at Inuyasha and when he winked at her, she giggled.

The rest of class went along smoothly and when the bell finally rang, Kagome was putting her notebooks away as the rest of the group stood up, ready to leave. Kagome followed suit and saw Kikyo slip in beside Inuyasha.

"Well, I'm ready to go home. I wish we had long weekend all the time. That was nice." Inuyasha said with a sigh, glancing at Kagome.

Kagome nodded "Things here are a lot different, I'll admit. But not bad. I am ready to get home too though, I would like to get my homework done and over with."

Sango nodded "My brother has baseball practice after school so I have to go to that, wanna tag along Miroku?"

The male nodded "Sure, I don't really have a whole lot going on."

Sango looked to her cousin "Want me to drop you off at home first?"

Kikyo crossed her arms across her chest and smirked "Oh don't worry about me, Inuyasha can just give me a lift. Right Inu?"

Inuyasha snorted, shaking his head "Sorry Kikyo, no can do. Took the Porsche today, we can only fit two people in it. That would be, Kagome and I."

Kikyo glared at the mentioned female and sighed "Fine, whatever. Sure Sango you can take me home." She spun on her heel and stormed off.

Miroku laughed softly "Ya know Kagome, on top of the other reasons why I like having you around…you bother Kikyo so much she just goes away. It is nice."

That earned Miroku laughter from the rest of them, and they left the class, heading towards their lockers.

Parting ways to get their things, Sango hugged Kagome briefly "I'm glad your first day went good Kagome. See you tomorrow."

Kagome grinned and went over to her locker, Inuyasha went with her.

While the young woman exchanged books she commented "I'm so glad I was able to get math out of the way today in study hall, fewer books to take home." Slamming the locker she turned to Inuyasha and he led the way to his locker.

"Ooh, so can I just copy your homework then?" Inuyasha asked as he did the same thing. Seeing her look he laughed "I was kidding Kagome, jeeze."

Sticking her tongue out at him made him laugh even more and he reached out like he was going to grab her tongue. She closed her mouth quickly and he leaned in close to narrow his eyes at her playfully.

Kagome's eyes widened, seeing him get that close to her. Her lips parted in a silent gasp, and Inuyasha noticed it. He blinked, swallowed hard and shifted a little bit closer to her. Suddenly the entire hallway was gone, out of their minds.

Inuyasha reached out and cupped Kagome's cheek, his eyes on hers. She was trembling then, but not because of unshed tears this time.

Licking his lips, Inuyasha leaned towards her but was unable to come too close because a voice said from behind him "Hey, Kagome?"

Inuyasha recoiled from Kagome, removing his hand from her cheek and standing up straight. Clearing his throat he looked over his shoulder at the man who was approaching them.

Kagome tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, a nervous habit and smiled lightly at Adam as he approached her, a stack of papers in his hand. He glanced between the two awkwardly, and blushed when he realized he had interrupted something "Uh, I had some extra time in last class, so I went and made copies of my notes for you. I figured the sooner the better right?" He held the papers out to her.

Kagome accepted the papers, unsure if she was annoyed or relieved by Adam's interruption "Thanks Adam that was really thoughtful. This is going to help really helpful."

Adam nodded his head, smiling and then cleared his throat "Well, I'll see you later. Inuyasha." He said nodded to the other male and walked off.

Kagome tucked the papers into her bag before glancing up at Inuyasha shyly "We, um. We should get going. I wanna go drop this stuff off before I go see my brother if that's ok?"

Inuyasha nodded, looking frustrated "Yea, of course. Let's go."

It was a borderline awkward silence on the drive home, neither of them knowing what just happened or how they felt about it. Kagome was chewing on her thumb nail, staring out the side window as she relived that small moment in time. He had been about to kiss her hadn't he? Why? Did he really like her? Did she like him? Did she want him to kiss her?

Inuyasha's hands were tight on the steering wheel, trying to figure out what the hell he had just been thinking. Kagome had been so…surprised by his presence, but in a good way he thought. She didn't object when he touched her. Kissing her had felt like the right thing to do at that moment. But Adam had to come along and ruin that moment.

Soon enough they were home, and Inuyasha was pulling into the garage. He swiftly came around the side of the car and opened Kagome's door for her.

She smiled at him, wanting to lighten the mood and said "Today was great, thanks for everything."

Inuyasha looked up and met her gaze, that spark was back and this time there was nobody around to interrupt.

"Today was great, wasn't it?" He asked, shutting the car door for her.

Kagome grinned "Yea, which was surprising."

They stood there beside the car for a moment before Inuyasha smiled softly "I think I might know how to make it even better."

Kagome frowned, confused "How?"

Inuyasha reached over and took her bag from her and set it on the roof of his Porsche behind her and brushed her hair out of her face. He watched as realization spread across her face and red tinted her cheeks. She didn't object though, so he moved his hand to the side of her face, stroking her cheek with his thumb.

Kagome's eyes were on his as he came closer, he went slowly. Letting her decide if she didn't want this. He heard a light gasp a moment before his lips met hers softly.

They both stilled for a heartbeat, but then Inuyasha's other hand came up and held the other side of her face keeping her close. Kagome slipped one hand up to the side of his neck, and the other on his chest.

It was a sweet kiss, shy and hesitant. Both of them needing practice, and both of them worried about what their relationship would mean.

After another couple moments Inuyasha pulled away from her, but they still remained pressed together. Kagome was acutely aware of everywhere their bodies touched, and knew her face had to be bright red right now.

She withdrew her hand from his chest and touched her lips before looking up and meeting Inuyasha's eyes. He smiled at her and cleared his throat, releasing her face and stepping back to give her some space.

"You know…" She said softly, looking back to grab her bag from the roof of the car. With the bag on her shoulder she looked up at Inuyasha and finished "That did make today even better."

A large grin broke out across Inuyasha's face and he chuckled "I'm glad." He held his hand out to Kagome and she took it. Unlike the times he had helped her up, or when they had just run through the house together being silly…this was different. Kagome laced her fingers through his and the smile that had been on his face grew.

He led her into the house, which was silent. Inutashio was still at work. Stopping at the base of the stairs Inuyasha smiled at her "Go put your stuff away, we'll go see your brother and then maybe we can grab a bite to eat?"

Kagome nodded her head "Sounds like a plan." Biting her lip she stretched up and brushed her lips against his cheek "Be right back," She hurried up the stairs, leaving a very happy Inuyasha in her wake.

Once she was in her room she shut the door behind her and leaned against it, touching her lips again. Kissing Inuyasha had been like touching a live wire. She was so nervous and excited and worried and a million other things.

That had been her first kiss.

She dumped her bags on her bed and sat down for a moment, her mind going a mile a minute. Shaking her head she stood, she and Inuyasha would figure this out later. Right now she had to go see her brother. Leaving her bedroom she walked slowly down the stairs. As she reached the first floor Inuyasha came from down the hall, he still had a smile on his face.

Kagome blushed lightly when she approached him, but smiled "I'm ready if you are."

Inuyasha nodded "Let's go." He let Kagome lead the way to the garage once more.

Once they were in the car, Inuyasha realized Kagome was slowly unraveling. He didn't think it was because of him, or the kiss they shared but because of her brother. He reached over and took her hand, squeezing it. She looked up at him and flashed him a half smile, but it was tight and he could see the pain in her eyes.

He didn't try to make small talk on their way to the hospital, he just let her be alone with her thoughts as he was with his. He did hold her hand the entire time though. Parking the car as close to the front doors as he could, he turned off the engine and looked at her "You ready Kagome?"

The girl nodded, taking a deep breath "Yea, I'm ready."

Inuyasha nodded and climbed out of the car, walking around the car he let Kagome out and took her hand once more. She was grateful, the comforting squeeze of his hand helped chase the fear from her heart.

Together they walked up to the building, but Kagome had to get directions from the woman at the front desk because she had not been in a good state of mind at her last visit. The directions were easy enough to follow and soon they were standing outside of Souta's room.

"I can wait out here, if you want?" Inuyasha asked, nodding to a pair of chairs half-way down the hall.

Kagome shook her head "No, I would like you to come with me…please."

Smiling, Inuyasha nodded and opened the door for her. Kagome removed her hand from his and walked into the room. There was Souta, laying peacefully under his blanket that their mother had made for him. The small stuffed bear tucked into his side. Kagome took a deep, shaky breath and moved to the chair sitting next to his bed.

"Hey Souta…" She whispered, taking his hand in hers. Inuyasha came and sat on a chair beside hers, reaching out he touched her knee seeing the pain on her face. When she spoke next, her voice broke "Inuyasha, th-this is my brother Souta." Her voice dropped to just above a whisper and Inuyasha could smell the tears in the air.

"Nice to meet you Souta," He said softly, Kagome looked at him in surprise but it melted away into a sad smile, full of relief.

Inuyasha watched as Kagome just held Souta's hand, stroking it softly. She didn't look away from the young boy as she spoke to Inuyasha "He is still so young…when he wakes up, how am I going to tell him what happened?" She swallowed the lump in her throat and Inuyasha moved his chair closer to her and draped an arm around her shoulders.

"You'll be able to do it Kagome, and you won't be alone. Me, and my dad and Sango and Miroku will be able to help you all get through it. Ok?" He kissed her temple softly.

Nodding, Kagome pressed her lips together – she couldn't hold the wash of tears back this time. She released her brother's hand, letting it lay on the bed, and drew her knees up to her chest. She rested her head on her knees and began to cry softly.

Inuyasha moved to her side, and lifted her off the chair before sitting down and holding her on his lap. Having her that close was intoxicating, but he shook his head and focused on the matter at hand. Wrapping his arms around her, he let her lean into his shoulder and cry about all of the unfair happenings of late.

It was another 15 or so minutes until Kagome was able to stop crying, and he held her the entire time. When she finally began to calm down, she climbed off Inuyasha's lap with a muttered apology that he brushed off. Wiping her eyes she turned back to Inuyasha "I really am sorry, normally I'm not so…emotional."

Inuyasha stood and said "Kagome, being emotional in a time like this is more than normal…don't apologize for it. Come here," He pulled her close and hugged her.

With her arms around his torso, and her nose buried in his chest, Kagome breathed deep the scent of him. It was nice, it calmed her down. Releasing him, she smiled up at him "Thank you for being here with me,"

Smiling, Inuyasha kissed her lightly "Of course."

Kagome blushed and went back to her brother's side, explaining to the half-demon as she went "I read to him, normally." She lifted the book and Inuyasha took his original seat. He watched as she opened the book to where she had left off last time and began to jump into the story with gusto. He found himself entranced by her voice, and was unable to tear his eyes from her face.

Another hour passed, and eventually Kagome put the book down and rubbed her throat – sore from all the crying and reading. "I think I am ready to head home now, leave him be." She set the book down and made sure her brother's blanket was perfect and that he was able to hold his bear. Kissing him on the forehead she whispered "Please wake up Souta, I love you so much." With that, the two teens left the room.

The walk back to the car was a quiet one, but the quiet was comfortable and neither minded it. As they drove down the road from the hospital, Kagome reached over and turned the radio down causing Inuyasha to glance at her with a curious expression on his face "What's up Kagome?"

Sighing Kagome said "You kissed me."

Inuyasha chuckled "I know, I was there."

Kagome narrowed her eyes playfully at him "Well, why-I mean…what does it mean? I'm confused."

Inuyasha pulled over onto a residential street and put the car into park before turning to face Kagome "I kissed you, Kagome, because it felt right. Like the right thing to do. Because I like you. I think you are beautiful, and smart and stubborn and brave and I like you."

Kagome pressed her lips together as he spoke, surprised.

"As for what it means, I guess that is up to both of us." He rubbed the back of his neck as he spoke "I-I would like to be with you, I know we haven't known each other for very long but…I don't really care about that."

Kagome glanced up at the half demon, having averted her eyes in shyness, to find him staring at her. She chewed her lip and said "I don't really care about it either, the-the fact that we haven't known each other very long. I like you too,"

Inuyasha smiled and reached out to take Kagome's hand and said, a sly smile on his face "Kagome, would you like to be my girlfriend?"

Kagome couldn't help but giggle, a blush tinting her cheeks "I would like that very much Inuyasha..." She turned her hand over in his so their fingers entwined and she leaned in closer to him.

Inuyasha leaned in as well, closing the gap between them so they could share a sweet kiss.

When they broke it, Kagome cleared her throat "I have to ask one more thing,"

Inuyasha leaned back in his seat, partially against the door so he could face her "Ok, shoot."

Kagome crossed her arms and sighed before saying "Your dad."

Inuyasha sighed deeply, looking down at his lap "Right...him. He-I don't think he will be upset or mad by this. I think he will be surprised at the uh, speed of it all," He chuckled at the look on Kagome's face "And, like this morning he said he wants me to be careful about us, if there was to be anything between us. So, maybe he won't be so surprised."

Kagome nodded her head "I guess that makes sense," She leaned back and smiled at Inuyasha "Still wanna go get some food?"

Inuyasha put the car in drive, nodding "Yea, sure. Anything particular?"

As the two of them came back onto the main road Kagome shook her head "Nope, just about anything will work. You pick, you know the area." She smiled over at Inuyasha, feeling better than she had since she arrived and better than she thought possible.

She almost felt guilty, feeling good. She wasn't supposed to feel good about life right now. Absently she reached across and took Inuyasha's free hand. He glanced her way and smiled, squeezing her hand before focusing on the road ahead of him.

They drove the rest of the way in silence, comfortable silence. Kagome went from watching out the window at the passing scenery to admiring the man beside her 'My boyfriend' she thought giddily, a silly smile on her face.

Oh gosh, what was she supposed to tell her friends back home? She shook her head at the thought. They were going to absolutely flip! What about their friends here? She giggled, catching Inuyasha's attention.

"What are you over there giggling about?" He asked, a happy smile on his face.

Kagome leaned her head back and glanced at him "Our friends are going to flip." She said, giggling again "My friends back home too," She smiled at him.

Inuyasha shook his head, smiling "Yea, probably." He sighed as he turned down another road, heading for the restaurant of choice "Kikyo is literally going to freak out, in a not so good way. You sure you can handle that?"

Kagome's smile was hard "She doesn't scare me."

Inuyasha smirked at her attitude about the other woman "Good."

Kagome looked at the timber and brick building as Inuyasha pulled into the parking lot, commenting "Sango said something to me today, that we would be good together because I don't care about Kikyo and you don't care about all of the crazy stuff happening in my life,"

As he parked, Inuyasha looked at her with an arched eyebrow "You and Sango talk about you and I being together?"

Kagome stammered, blushing "Uh, n-no. See, Sango talks. I listen and get advice and-" She shut her mouth and crossed her arms, knowing she was making it worse.

Inuyasha reached across the small space and pulled her closer, before his lips touched hers he whispered "How long have you been interested in me Kagome?"

Kagome simply shrugged, not really knowing when the gradual feelings really started "Don't know." She leaned to close the gap between them.

Kissing Inuyasha was nice, unhurried and sweet. He didn't attack her face, nor was he sloppy. He calmly moved his mouth over hers, breathing her breath and taking his time. It made shivers go down her spine, and a smile touch her lips.

Pulling back, Inuyasha said "For me it was the airport."

Kagome blushed, gaping at him "Seriously?"

Inuyasha smirked, unbuckling his seat belt and replying with a shrug "Sure, I thought you were pretty. And then I thought you were rude. Now I like you. Pretty simple." He winked as he climbed out of the car and came around to her side.

Kagome giggled, undoing her seatbelt as Inuyasha opened her door. He took her hand and pulled her from the car carefully, and then pulled her some more so she was against his chest and he could kiss her again. It was her giggle that broke the kiss a moment after it started.

He frowned at her, but looked amused "What?"

"We are never going to get anything done if you keep kissing me."

"So?" With that, he leaned back down and his mouth found hers again.

Smiling, Kagome wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss.

A few minutes later they were finally entering the steak-house hand-in-hand, both wearing identical silly smiles. The hostess smiled at them as she led them to a nice and secluded table away from some of the other diners. She gave them their menus with a wink.

Kagome's cheeks were bright red at this point, and when she glanced at Inuyasha she realized why the waitress had been so obvious, his lips were lightly smudged with her lip gloss. She dropped her face into her hand and laughed before grabbing a napkin and handing it to him saying innocently "Nice lip gloss there Inuyasha,"

The half-demon's eyes widened and he quickly took the napkin to remove the offending product from his mouth. Just then the waitress appeared and asked for their drink order.

When the woman walked off Kagome leaned her head on Inuyasha's shoulder and he slipped his arm around her shoulder saying as he did "Can I be honest about something?"

"I hope you are honest about everything with me."

Chuckling, Inuyasha tapped Kagome on the nose as she looked up at him "You know what I mean,"

Kagome wrinkled her nose in response "Yea, yea. What is it?"

Clearing his throat Inuyasha said "I have a very limited dating history, just so you know. Compared to pretty much every other junior at school I might as well be a priest."

Kagome smiled at him "Then you are a priest dating a nun, because it is the same for me. Like I said, a much more family-oriented and sheltered culture."

Using his free hand to lift and open his menu, Inuyasha asked as he read "Have you ever had a boyfriend?"

Blushing, and glad his eyes were elsewhere, Kagome replied lowly "No…have you? Ever had a girlfriend I mean?"

Inuyasha shook his head "No, not really. A few dates here and there, but like you have heard Kikyo is fucking crazy."

Kagome pursed her lips at that "I stayed single out of a lack of desire to really be with anyone, she took the choice from you entirely. That isn't right."

Inuyasha shrugged in response "Don't worry about it, I have you to protect me from her now." He smiled as he turned the page in the menu, glancing at her.

Kagome smiled and nodded "True story," She looked to the menu with him and said "Hmm, ribs sound good but messy."

Inuyasha laughed "Messy is good, and ribs sound awesome. That's what I want."

Kagome nodded her head, they would eat messy barbeque-y ribs together and it would be the best first date ever.

Setting the menu down, Inuyasha asked "So, since you have never had a boyfriend have you never been like…" He hesitated, unsure of how to ask his question.

Kagome lifted her glass of water and said "Never been with a guy? Like sexually?" She took a sip to hide her reddening cheeks.

Inuyasha cleared his throat "Yea, I guess."

Setting her glass down Kagome toyed with it saying "Inuyasha, you were the first guy I ever even kissed…"

Inuyasha's answering silence worried Kagome. Would he not want someone so, inexperienced? So prude – like so many others thought her to be?

"..Really?"

Kagome sat up straight, and Inuyasha withdrew his arm from her. He reached out and gently placed his thumb under her chin to make her look at him.

She did, glancing at his awed face through her lashes "Yea, really." She shrugged, feeling embarrassed and nervous.

Inuyasha chuckled and leaned down to kiss her "I'm glad," He said softly before kissing her.

Relief flooded through Kagome then, he wasn't judging her for her lack of experience – maybe because he shared it? Although not to the extreme.

Their waitress was back, drinks in hand and had to clear her throat to get their attention. Kagome blushed, accepting her drink with an apology.

"You guys ready to order?"

Kagome nodded and Inuyasha said "We both are gonna get ribs, I want the full rack with the spicy barbeque. With the baked potato. Kagome?"

"Oh, the half rack is plenty for me with the honey barbeque and fries please."

The woman smiled and finished writing their order before taking their orders and leaving them.

"That doesn't bother you?" She asked once the waitress was out of ear shot.

"What? The fact that you don't have a large dating history? Honestly, I prefer it."

Kagome smiled slightly, she had figured Inuyasha was the jealous type.

"When are we gonna tell Sango and Miroku?" Inuyasha asked as he traced his claw ever so lightly along the back of her hand that rested on the table.

She watched his claw trace circles and shivered saying "I'll tell Sango tonight, and Miroku is usually near her – or she'll just call him or something. Speaking of! What is between those two?"

Inuyasha chuckled and withdrew his claw "Those two have been head over heels for each other for as long as I can remember. They are just too stubborn to admit it. Or rather, Sango is. But with how perverted Miroku is, it isn't a surprise Sango isn't willing to commit to him."

Kagome grinned "I think they are good together, they fit."

Inuyasha nodded "I agree."

They lapsed into a comfortable silence and Kagome pulled out her phone to see a few texts from her friends back in Japan, she hadn't taken her phone off silent yet and since she got out of class things had been well…crazy. She smiled at their enthusiasm, missing her and loving her they all said. How was her new house, her school? Any cute boys? Was Inuyasha cute? She shook her head and did the math in her head, it was roughly 10am there so she didn't both replying, they would be in class with their phones off.

"My friends back home are so silly. They kinda remind me of Ayame."

Inuyasha smiled "Yea? What are their names?"

Kagome put her phone away and replied "Eri, Yuka and Ayumi. I miss them." She sighed and Inuyasha rubbed her shoulder, comforting her. "I'm ok, really." She smiled up at him.

Inuyasha took a drink of his iced tea, draping his other arm along the top of the booth behind Kagome. The girl glanced up at him, smiling. He was so calm and collected, everything he did was just natural. It was a shame he had been unable to really try and find someone to be happy with…she was sure he would be a good boyfriend.

Filling the time with idle chatter, they learned more about each other. Favorite colors, foods. Hopes and dreams, fears – those Inuyasha swore he had none. It was nice. When the food arrived both were relaxed and happy, and more than ready to dive right in to their very messy meal.

Inuyasha removed his arm from the back of her chair and she scooted over to give them both some elbow room to chow down.

"You might not think I am still pretty when I am covered in barbeque sauce Inuyasha," Kagome warned playfully as she dipped a fry in the dark sauce and ate it.

Inuyasha snorted as he cut up his baked potato "You're right," He said jokingly, leaning close to whisper "I might think you look hot."

Kagome was so flustered, she couldn't do anything but blush and shake her head at the man who simply laughed in response.

Tearing the meat apart, Kagome began to eat. At first she tried really hard to be as neat as possible, but when she realized just how hard that was going to be she just ate and would worry about the clean-up after. Beside her, Inuyasha was wolfing down his food with zero care to where the sauce got.

They ate mostly in silence, sharing amused glances at the mess on their fingers and faces but not bothering to comment on it.

When they were both full, or rather when Kagome was and Inuyasha had already finished his food and was picking at her left over fries, did they speak.

"You are a mess," Kagome said reaching for the wet-naps the waitress had given them with their food.

"Have you seen yourself yet?" Inuyasha replied, ripping his open with his teeth before beginning to clean his fingers.

Kagome giggled and set about her own hands, which weren't as bad as his at least.

By the time they were done, there was a heaping pile of dirty wet-naps on their plates and both of them were barbeque sauce free, well almost.

"You missed some," Inuyasha said pointing to a small stubborn smudge on Kagome's cheek before wiping it off with his thumb before rubbing his hands on his jeans.

Kagome smiled shyly at the gesture "Thanks, are you ready to go?"

Inuyasha nodded and they went up to the front to pay the bill. Once that was all squared away they journeyed back out into the evening, it was already after six and the sun was hovering behind the taller buildings on the edge of the city. Kagome smiled when Inuyasha took her hand and led her back towards the car "I do not want to go home and do homework," Kagome sighed as they reached the door.

Inuyasha grinned at her "Then don't, not yet anyways." He turned her to face him and kissed her once more.

And of course, they would get nothing done…because he wouldn't stop kissing her.

Kagome couldn't care less.

!

Ah, finishing a long (LONG) chapter after a monster of a hiatus always feels good. Honestly, this 17,320 word beast would have been up a week ago but my flash drive case went missing. (Don't even get me started on the heart break of THAT one.) But I found it, hammered out the last 6,000 words and here you go!

I decided, since you all had to wait so long that I would step things up with Inuyasha and Kagome. What do you think? Thoughts?

Also, super thanks if you haven't given up on me yet…cause I haven't given up on the story.

Second also, my table for converting the time from S.F. to Tokyo & vice versa someone how got all funky so I was putting in times that were NOT true. Tokyo is 17 hours ahead of San Francisco, so some of my time explanations made no sense. My bad, but I fixed the table and what not so it should be solid from here on out.

As for the next chapter, I plan on making it much shorter (still a good length, but perhaps a more realistic one) so it will be out more & we will see more of Kikyo than as just a minor annoyance. Who knows what kind of trouble she will cause!

Ok, well I won't give any more away so just go ahead and keep reading to find out what happens next. I have a lot in store still, so stick around!

Thanks for reading!

-PEACE OUT!