Kagome groaned as she pulled into the driveway. The headache that she'd woken up with still hadn't gone away, each scream and whine from her kindergarten class only making it worse.

She loved her students, loved her job, but she was also glad that it was Friday. And that summer break was fast approaching. Running a hand through her hair, she pulled out her ponytail, the tension around her temples lessening slightly.

Rain began to splatter against the pavement as she dragged herself out of the car, managing to duck inside the front door before it soaked through her clothes. She'd barely managed to get her shoes off before Mizuki barrelled into her legs.

"Mama! We're going out for dinner tonight!" the five-year-old said. "And I get to dress up!" She twirled around, showing off the purple lace of her dress.

Kagome barely suppressed a groan—she didn't want to go anywhere tonight. Sesshoumaru came around the corner, adjusting his tie that miraculously matched Mizuki's dress, his eyes widening as he took in her haggard appearance.

He scooped up their daughter, resting her on his hip. "Change of plans, little one. We will be eating at home instead."

Mizuki immediately pouted. "But you said we were going to dress up! And get ice cream after!"

He chuckled softly, bumping their noses together. "And we still will. Find the picnic blanket, and we will eat in the living room."

"The living room?" The girl dissolved into giggles, wriggling in his arms. "You're so funny, Papa!" Sesshoumaru set her down, and she scampered away as he grabbed Kagome's bag.

"Long day?"

"The longest," she sighed, rolling her shoulders. "I'm sorry I ruined your plans."

He waved her off. "It was nothing special, mate. Mizuki merely complained that there were not enough occasions to dress up for during our afternoon tea party, so I suggested we go out."

"Did you take pictures?" she asked, sad that she'd missed it.

"Of course. I am sure she will tell you all about it over dinner," he said, pulling her into a hug.

Kagome breathed heavily as tension escaped her tired muscles, tilting her head up to kiss his jaw. "Thanks for understanding."

"Hnn. Choose which restaurant you want, and I will make the order. It will give you enough time to shower and change."

"Change?" she asked, looking down at her clothes.

Sesshoumaru chuckled. "She wanted all of us to dress up. Your clothes are on the bed."

A smile tugged at her lips, and she hugged him back. "Can't disappoint her if she's been talking about it since teatime, I suppose."

"Not if you want her to go to bed on time."

"Says the one who's already promised her ice cream."

"With sprinkles."

Kagome groaned softly. "Of course. Feed me, and maybe I'll feel up for a walk after dinner."

He tucked her head under his chin. "Do not push yourself. We still have some in the freezer."

"I know, but the fresh air will be good. And hopefully, wear her out." As if on cue, Mizuki returned, grabbing Kagome's hand and tugging her towards the stairs, insisting she get ready, describing in detail all the make-believe food she'd served her father at tea.

Their laughter trailed into the bedroom, Kagome's headache finally subsiding.