Sequel to Chapter 31 (SessKag, Veterinarian, Chartreuse)

Sesshoumaru had served various clientele, ranging from hedge fund owners to celebrities, but he'd never been as nervous as he was tonight.

He shouldn't have been nervous, as there was no reason to be. There had been no significant changes to the menu, and the recipes were ones he could not only make with his eyes closed but ones he'd invented himself.

How was it that the presence of a single person was causing him to overthink every ingredient he added?

It wasn't even a date. She'd called as such when he'd suggested the trade, but as the days dwindled and their texts increased, Sesshoumaru began to question their original agreement.

He almost wished he allowed pets in the restaurant. Masamaru had known something was up, pacing in front of the door when he'd left for his shift, but as well-behaved as the husky was, there was no guarantee he'd behave once he saw Dr. Higurashi.

Kagome.

He pursed his lips as her voice wafted through his mind. She'd insisted on him calling her by her first name after their first exchange, having the audacity to laugh at him when he told her she should be more proud of her title.

"Having a degree doesn't stop me from being me," she'd said, mischief dancing in those seductive blue eyes. And she'd only laughed harder when he'd told her anyone who referred to him as anything other than 'Chef' while working would likely lose a limb. "Guess it's a good thing I don't work for you then. I can call you Sesshoumaru all I want."

Jaw clenching, he sent out the next round of orders, each plate as immaculate as the last. He'd been tempted to try something new, the need to impress this woman eating away at the creative side of his brain, but she'd refused to tell him what her preferences were. Perhaps he could convince her to have a private meal at a later date.

For an official date.

"Chef, your VIP is here!"

Sesshoumaru managed not to flinch, straightening his collar before inclining his head. "You may seat her. I will be out in a moment." Giving a few unnecessary instructions to his staff about his expectations, he headed into the dining room, butterflies taking flight in his stomach at the way her face lit up.

It was just a meal. A trade for services rendered, nothing more. He nearly scoffed at the boldness of the lie.

"You weren't kidding," Kagome gushed as he poured her drink. "This place is amazing!"

The tips of his ears darkened, and he bowed his head. "There is always a means to improve."

She chuckled. "You would say that." Looking around, she pointed out her favourite parts of the decor, complimenting him on how his colour scheme was rich but not overwhelming. She also graced him with another laugh when he sneered at her question about him being a woodworker in a previous life.

Sesshoumaru went over the specials, pairing up various dishes. "You can't make me everything!" she said, eventually closing her menu to put a stop to his suggestions.

"Why not?" he sniffed.

"Because I won't be able to get home. I'd have to roll myself down the street."

"I would be more than happy to drive you." He'd meant to keep the joke going, but his voice deepened, and the half-smile she gave him proved his intention had not gone unnoticed.

"Maybe on the third date," she said. "If you're lucky." The gleam in her eyes told him his luck was not about to run out, and he made a mental note to plan for some time off.

"A walk, then?" he asked, still hopeful.

Kagome chuckled, shooing him toward the kitchen. "Only if Masa-kun comes with us."

"He will be happy to see you."

Kagome rested her chin on one hand. "Even without the treats?"

"He is not so shallow." He took the menus from her when she'd finally made her selection.

"Good. I kinda like him."

Sesshoumaru wasn't sure which of them she was talking about, but in a bout of daring, he grabbed her hand, skimming his lips along her knuckles. "I will strive not to let my jealousy taint your food."

He was rewarded with another smile, and a shiver. "You do that."