Over the course of the next few days Sesshomaru hardly said a word to Rin. She had wanted to speak when he dropped Yuki off, but he was gone before she opened the door. At work he only talked to her about what was necessary. He called Yuki every night, however, so she knew it was just her. Maybe she really had hurt him by leaving without notice. It isn't like he wasn't warned though. It was explicitly established that it would only be that night. Still, maybe she was a bit too harsh on the poor guy…
On the morning of the gala, she received an email saying he wouldn't be at the office that day but would pick them up at seven sharp. A few minutes later, she received a message from Kagome telling her to get to the office quick. Seeing as the last time she said that they were both sold to Taisho Corp., she was a bit nervous. Rin managed to remain composed as she got her son ready for school. Yuki actually managed to catch her off guard as she was tying his shoes by stroking her hair.
"Don't worry momma," he said soothingly, "Daddy isn't mad."
"Oh yeah?"
"Mhm, he said so last night."
"On the phone?"
"No, in my room! Daddy visits me every night after you tuck me in to tell me a story,"
Now she was irritated. That dirty dog! How dare he come in without asking. Not only was this illegal, but it was batshit crazy. Even if it was to visit their son, he should at least talk to her before waltzing in like he owned the place.
"How does daddy get in, Yuki?"
"Through my window. Please don't be mad, it was my idea! I promise!"
"How long has this been going on?"
"Since I went to his house."
Sighing, she led him out to her car. Of course this was his idea. Nobody could resist his sweet gaze. So she couldn't be mad at Sesshomaru for wanting to see their son. It still would've been polite to call first, though. They made it to the office building and parted at the preschool. When reached her desk, she saw why Kagome freaked out. In the middle was a bouquet of white and yellow roses with an envelope tucked within. Knowing instantly who the culprit was, she read the note inside.
Rin,
You assistance will not be needed today. Please use this time to get your hair, nails, and makeup done. The card I have enclosed is linked to my personal account. Use it as needed.
-S
Her counterpart took the letter and looked over it, gawking.
"You lucky bitch."
"I don't want to spend his money..."
"Then don't. You're a smart girl, use your contacts. I know Kagura loves to do your hair and Ayame gave you a certificate for her salon. I'm sure she would throw in your nails and makeup at a discounted price."
"Alright Kagome. Mind picking Yuki up from preschool and taking him out for a walk?"
"Not at all. Go, have fun."
She hugged her friend tight and carried the bouquet into Sesshomaru's office. After making sure they were happy in a vase, she left for Kagura's salon. The salon had started off as a gag gift from Naraku to his wife. Much to his surprise, it flourished under her care and direction. Soon it became one of Onigumo Inc.'s strongest branches with salons all over the world. Few now knew about the original, a private establishment in Hokkaido's shop district. Rin arrived at the salon and found herself caught off guard, as always, by the sign that simply said Fresh in 70's style bubble letters. A short demoness with cute goat horns met her at the door.
"Hello, welcome to Fresh. Do you have a reservation?"
"So, you take reservations now?"she called over the girl's shoulder.
Kagura instantly came running out from one of the booths. Her silk kimono hugged her pregnant belly in a flattering way. She hugged her, grinning. Most people feared the wind demoness because of her husband's immense power and her resting bitch face, but she was usually quite friendly.
"Hello darling, long time no see!"
"It has been too long Mrs. Onigumo."
"Please, call me Kagura. What brings you to my humble shop?"
"I would like a full makeover."
"Oh, Rin, you don't need a makeover," the older woman said softly, "You're beautiful already."
"Thank you, but it's because of a party tonight."
"Say no more, I'll make you look perfect. On the house."
"I couldn't let you do that."
"It's the least I could do after my husband basically sold you!"
Grinning, she sat her down to work her magic. Rin's hair was braided into three parts that were intricately weaved into a crown and held in place with small flower pins. Her nails were painted a light peach with white flowers. Then came her makeup. It was kept simple, yet elegant. Black mascara, thin eyeliner, and a dusting of pale orange eyeshadow made her eyes pop. On her lips was a light pink, pearly lipstick. She looked fit for a king.
Or a demon lord…
After thanking Kagura, and leaving her with a large tip, she headed back home. On the way, she made sure to pick up a bag of sweets from the bakery as Yuki's reward for being so brave. She arrived home first, so she watched TV until Kagome brought him back.
"You look hot," the younger woman said, carrying a sleeping Yuki inside.
"Thank you so much. For everything."
"No problem. Now, I've gotta head home to get ready. See you later."
She gave her a hug and left. Rin let Yuki sleep for an hour, he would need his energy for the party. While she was preparing a light lunch for them both, he wandered out groggily.
"Momma? Where's 'Gome?"
"Kagome had to go home."
"Oh, okay."
He crawled up onto a chair and set his head on the table. His mother set a glass of apple juice and a cup of fruit salad in front of him. Perking up, he ate ravenously. When he was finished, Rin led him to the bathroom so she could do his hair. She rubbed relaxer on her fingers before running them through his hair. His tail thumped wildly as she massaged his ears and scalp in the process. Once his hair was thoroughly tamed, she ran a brush through it to make it feel like silk. Both fuzzy ears stood up, one drooping cutely at the tip. They both went flat when she said she wanted to put a bit of makeup on him.
"But that's for girls!"
"Not this stuff. It'll just be a little bit."
"Okay..."
Smiling, she applied a bit of magenta eyeliner to enhance the natural fuchsia eyelids he inherited from his father. He rushed to the mirror, grinning at his reflection.
"That's it."
"I look just like Daddy!"
"Mhm. Now let's get you dressed."
As she helped Yuki into his suit, she noticed his pants had a specially tailored hole for his tail. After his shirt, tie, and jacket were on she brushed it gently. Black hairs peppered the soft white fur, the tip brushing against the floor slightly. She smiled and sat him down in front of a samurai documentary before getting herself ready. Rin soon discovered, however, that she couldn't zip her dress up. She was starting to panic a bit when her son beckoned for her to kneel. When she did, he zipped it for her and kissed her cheek.
"Momma looks beautiful," he said softly.
"Thank you, and you are very handsome."
Tail wagging, he leaned in as if telling a secret.
"Daddy says he's goin' to dance with you."
"Oh, did he now?"
"Uh-huh, but I won't let him. I'm gonna dance with momma allll night."
She laughed, hugging him tight, and his tail wagged enthusiastically. There was a knock at the door and she picked him up, careful not to wrinkle his suit. Jaken was at the door. With a soft grunt, he started down the hall. They took that as a signal to follow, soon finding themselves at a sleek black sports car. Sesshomaru was inside waiting for them in a suit identical to their son's. The only difference was that he had an orange boutonniere. His stoic expression softened at the sight of them. Taking Rin's hand, he kissed the back.
"Rin Honju, I would be honored if you would allow me to escort you to this event tonight as my date."
"I graciously accept," she replied before adding, "Even though you've been trespassing in my home every night for a week."
He smiled in relief, turning to look at Yuki knowingly. The hanyou just looked at his extremely shiny shoes with complete focus.
"I would like to formally announce him as my son tonight."
What?"
"I want to claim him, once and for all, as my son. My heir."
"Do you know how much danger that'll put him in?! Don't be selfish!"
"I'm not. I'm doing what is right. I already considered the risks, and I will handle anything that may occur. I want the world to know about our beautiful child, is that wrong?"
"When you put it that way… just tell me one thing: Why now?"
"Every time I look at him, hear him, I cannot help but to feel pride. You certainly now how it feels."1
"All too well."
"Then you should understand entirely why I want to claim him as my son as soon as I possibly can," he said very matter-of-factly.
"I do."
"Good. And I will announce you as my mate."
Her jaw dropped at his audacity. Telling everyone about Yuki was one thing. It was expected, despite her wariness. But saying she was his mate was a totally different subject. She had done research on the subject the night after they slept together. The expectations were insane to say the least. Along with bearing pups and being basically his wife, she was expected to stay silent in the presence of his equals and cater to his every whim. With her personality, that simply did not go over well. Seeing the look on her face, he smirked.
"It would only be an act to save face. Don't want the public to attack you as a Jezebel, correct?"
"I guess you're right."
"Besides, one day it will be true."
"You're cocky."
"I have every reason to be. My inner demon has already chosen you as a mate. It is only a matter of time before you give up and come to me as well."
"We'll see."
The car stopped in front of a mansion-like structure where a red carpet lined with paparazzi was rolled out to the door. Sesshomaru stepped out first, then offered his hand to Rin. She held Yuki with one arm and allowed him to help her get out with the other. Camera flashes went off as soon as they set foot on the carpet. Microphones were shoved at them from all angles, reporters spouting questions about she and their son. Face going blank, the demon stopped everyone with a single statement.
"There will be no comments; everything will be clarified tonight during the gala."
The questions immediately ceased, past experience making it apparent they would get nothing from him. With the grace of a king, he led them inside. Yuki reached for him, whining, and he took him into his arms. Rin continued to hold onto his arm as people approached to greet them. Eventually they made it to a table where Inuyasha was waiting with his fiance, Kikyo. The latter was wearing a very low-cut pink dress with a slit up the side and two inch stilettos. She smiled at her falsely.
"Hello Sesshomaru," the woman said in a sultry tone, adding curtly "Rin."
"Good evening Kikyo."
Her eyes landed on their son and she gasped, bringing her hand to her lips. He nuzzled closer to his father's chest. Inuyasha raised an eyebrow, looking suspicious.
"And who is this little guy?"
"This is our son," Rin said crisply, "Yuki."
"Is that so? I thought my brother didn't do family, let alone huma-"
"Well isn't that charming. Um, does he talk?" Kikyo interrupted.
"Yes, of course he does."
Sesshomaru pet his hair, looking at him reassuringly. Slowly, Yuki released his grip and climbed into a seat. His ears twitched as his brown eyes gazed at the other occupants of the table. Enunciating carefully, he addressed them.
"Hello, I'm Yuki Honju-Taisho. It is very nice to meet you both."
He held out his hand and his uncle shook it, speechless. Kikyo looked at it with disdain before doing the same.
"Tell me, how old are you?"
"Three. I'm going to be four in a month."
"He's very articulate for a three year old," she said, directing her question at Sesshomaru.
"His mother and I try to speak to him like he is an adult. And, as you know, half-demons tend to be more intellectually advanced than normal human children."
"Why is this the first time we're meeting or even hearing of him."
It was Rin's turn to interrupt.
"We thought it would be best if we kept everything hush hush until Yuki was old enough to understand his father's position."
"I believe I was talking to Sesshomaru. It's unbecoming of a mate to speak without consent," Kikyo snipped.
Yuki growled softly, but quickly stopped when Kagome took a seat at the table. She was wearing a sea foam green gown with one strap.
"Aunty 'Gome!"
"Hello, sorry I'm a little late."
Inuyasha gawked, looking her over, while his date smirked.
"I see you brought a nanny, good."
"Actually, I'm Inuyasha's assistant and Yu-yu's godmother. Nice guess though."
"However did you get into here then? I thought it was invitation only."
"I was invited. I'm Yuki's plus-one."
She smiled saccharinely, Rin high-fiving her under the table. A waiter came to take their orders, which helped to divert some tension, but conversation started once more. While the brothers spoke business, the rich woman continued her attempt at intimidation.
"Say Rin, you and I should have tea one afternoon."
"That may be difficult with my schedule."
"Oh? How come?"
"I work five days a week and my weekends are dedicated to Yuki."
"You work? How droll! And your mate allows you to work?"
"Well, yes. If anything he approves."
"How interesting. And what do you do?"
Before she could answer, her son tugged on her shirt.
"Momma, I'm bored..."
"I'm sorry pup, would you like to color?"
"No..."
"How about I tell you a story?" Inuyasha asked, "About when your dad and I when we were younger."
"Inuyasha…"
"Yeah!"
The younger hanyou sat at full attention as he regaled him with a tale of how his father's arm had been cut off in battle and took a century to grow back. Rin held Sesshomaru's arm to keep him from vaulting over to punch him. Kagome was enthralled as well, earning annoyed glares from her "rival". When the story was over, she spoke loudly with fake enthusiasm.
"That was such an amazing story. You are so good with kids, Inu."
"Really?"
"Yeah. I hope we have our own soon."
He very slightly shuddered at her words, but she didn't seem to notice. Food was placed on the table and Yuki's parents bumped heads as they both went to cut his food.
"Ow, sorry."
"That was my fault. Are you alright?"
"Of course. Do you want to cut his steak?"
He smiled and nodded, making his brother's eyes nearly pop out. Kikyo raised a criticizing eyebrow at this.
"Isn't it the woman's job to care for the pups' needs?"
"Normally, yes. But our relationship is a bit unconventional and I enjoy doing simple jobs like this."
In actuality, it was because he had already missed so much of his son's life and doing little things like cutting his food or tying his shoes made him feel less useless. Once everything was cut, he started on eating his own food. It was something he had grown accustomed to, steak with broccoli florets and baby potatoes. So it was odd when he heard both his son and mate humming happily as they ate. Quickly he made a mental note to stock their fridge when he got the chance. They thanked the busboy when he came to clear the table and the waiter when he came with dessert, earning an amused snicker from Kikyo. He was really growing weary with her behavior. More than once he caught her giving him flirtatious smiles and leaning forward so her breasts nearly showed.
Not that this was the first time she had come onto him. You see, Sesshomaru was her first choice. He was the president of the company and her father was an executive of some bank. But she quickly discovered he had absolutely no interest in her or any other human woman. This didn't deter her. In fact, this made her advances more outright. She would do things from "accidentally" falling on him to showing up at his office with nothing but a trench coat and thigh-highs. Nothing worked however, so she sunk her claws into his more naive brother. It would be interesting to see what she would try now seeing that Rin is human.
Yuki tugged on his sleeve urgently, grabbing his attention.
"What is it, pup?"
"Potty..."
"I see. We will be right back everyone."
Taking him into his arms, he hurried to the restroom. While in there, his son spoke to him through the stall door.
"I don't like that lady, she's mean to momma."
"Don't worry pup; I don't either."
"Did you really lose your arm?"
"Yes. Are you done?"
"I need help..."
Opening the door, he found the hanyou with his pants twisted around. A smile came to his face as he knelt to help him. Then he lifted him to sink level so he could wash his hands.
"Thank you Daddy."
"You're welcome pup. Now, how about we get back to your mother?"
"Okay!"
Holding his hand this time, Yuki walked beside him. Kikyo's voice reached their ears before they ever got near the table.
"So, Rin, how did you manage to trap a man like Sesshomaru?"
"Excuse me?"
"I'm just saying, just how did you lure him. It wasn't wealth nor looks, obviously. So, how did you convince him that that mongrel is his?"
"Yuki is his child," Kagome cut in.
"I see the secretary is in on it. A bit of make up does wonders, huh Rin?"
Both father and son growled, shocking other party goers by bolting to the table.
"Leave momma alone," Yuki growled, two faint magenta stripes appearing on his cheeks.
"You can't possibly believe them, can you?"
He ignored her, turning to Rin serenely.
"Would you mind joining me on stage for a moment?"
"I guess not..."
Taking his hand, she stood. Their son took his other hand and they moved to the stage extending from the far left wall. He tapped the microphone, making everyone in the room gather to hear what he had to say.
"Hello and thank you to everyone who came. Tonight alone we managed to raise over a million dollars for the Taisho foundation which provides electricity and water to those in need."
Once the applause from the crowd died down, he continued.
"It is also a special night for myself and my family. First of all, I would like to introduce to you all my mate, Rin."
She stepped forward, blushing as he wrapped an arm around her waist. They shared a chaste kiss before he turned back to the crowd.
"We have been together for almost five years, bringing me to my next subject: Our son, Yuki."
The crowd went completely silent as he moved to his side shyly. Smiling, he picked him up and held him between them.
"Yuki is three. We decided to keep him a secret until tonight because, as you all may know, it is a lot of pressure being in the limelight. Especially for a child,"
A mumble of agreement swept through the audience before they applauded in a thunderous uproar. Yuki's ears flattened at the noise and Rin kissed his cheek reassuringly.
"I am glad you all understand. I would like to thank you all once more for coming and to say that the dance floor will now be open."
As they ascended the stairs, reporters gathered at the bottom hoping to talk to Rin or Yuki again. They were once again waved off by Sesshomaru, who told them to leave any questions with his assistant in the morning. Rin assumed it was finally punishment for not staying until morning a week prior. When they reached the table, everyone was gone. The couple were off dancing while Kagome was twirling with some wolf demon. Smiling, he turned to her.
"Lady Rin, I would be honored if you would dance with me."
"I'm sorry, but I'm taken."
He was completely flabbergasted.
"By who?"
"Me!" Yuki giggled, taking his mother's hand and hurrying to the floor.
There, they danced together through several songs while Sesshomaru watched, amused, from the table. The single fact that it was their son who had stolen her made him chuckle. Halfway through their fifth song, Kagome cut in.
"May I dance with the young gentleman?"
"Nope! I'm dancing with momma!"
"Please? My partner was mean."
"Oh, okay..."
Smiling, she swept him away. Rin felt a tap on her shoulder and turned around, coming face to chest with her "mate". He took her hand gently, then proceeded to hold her close as he led her in a slow dance.
"Long night."
"Tell me about it. You did well on your speech, by the way."
"Thank you, I tried to be as truthful as possible."
"I could tell. Nice touch with our amount of time together."
Eyes darkening, he leaned down to whisper.
"I wasn't completely lying. I never stopped thinking about you, Rin. Every day we were apart, you were the only woman on my mind."
He kept his serious expression as he pulled away to twirl her. When the song was over, Yuki claimed her once more. Deep down, however, she dwell upon whether or not what she was doing the right thing by keeping her distance from Sesshomaru.