Breaking their warm embrace, Scott and Inuyasha shed their clothing, leaving them in a neat pile before entering the end suite bathroom. They went to relieve themselves first before stepping into the spacious, glass-encased shower.

As the shower door slid shut, advanced technology sensed their presence, and a warm cascade of water began from multiple directions, enveloping them. Once sufficiently wet, Inuyasha pressed a sleek button on the wall, pausing the water.

Scott reached for a bottle of aromatic body wash, generously applying some on his palms. He passed the bottle to Inuyasha, who did the same.

Together, they began applying the soap to each other's bodies, fingers tracing every contour and curve. The intimate act was both caring and playful. With a nod from Inuyasha, Scott pressed the button again, and the water resumed, washing away the suds and leaving their skin glistening and fresh.

Stepping out of the shower, Scott reached for two plush towels from the nearby rack. They dried themselves, with Scott paying particular attention to ensuring Inuyasha was thoroughly dry.

Suddenly, a knock on their suite door interrupted the tranquil atmosphere. "Room service!" a familiar voice called out.

Swiftly, they grabbed the robes draped on the bed, slipping into them and securing the sashes around their waists. Approaching the door, Inuyasha unhitched the security latch and swung it open.

To their surprise, they were greeted by the same young usher they had spotted at breakfast, the one who was grabbing a frappe earlier when they were in the mini store.

"Good evening, sirs," the usher greeted cheerfully, holding out a tray bearing a delectable baked Alaska, a slice of rich Boston creme pie, and a velvety cheesecake. "Here are your desserts."

"Thank you," Inuyasha replied, taking the tray from him.

Recognizing the young man's features, Scott interjected, "You're Kohaku, aren't you? Sango's younger brother?"

Kohaku nodded, "Yes, that's me. But how did you know about Sango?"

"We've had her as our waitress on both our visits to the tavern," Scott explained with a friendly nod.

Kohaku's face lit up with understanding. "Ah, I see. How did you find her service?"

"She's wonderful," Inuyasha chimed in. Then, teasingly, he added, "By the way, how was your date with your boyfriend?"

Kohaku's cheeks flushed a shade of pink. "It was amazing," he admitted with a shy smile. "Is there anything else I can assist you with?"

"No, just the dessert will do, Kohaku," Scott replied with a gracious smile.

Wanting to show their appreciation, Inuyasha quickly reached for his pants that were discarded earlier, retrieving half the cash he had left. He approached Kohaku, offering the money. "Here you go, Kohaku. A tip for you."

Kohaku's eyes widened at the generous amount. "Sir, this is too much. I couldn't possibly accept—"

Inuyasha interrupted with a firm yet gentle tone, "I insist. Use it to buy something special for your boyfriend." He winked knowingly.

Kohaku hesitated for a mere second before accepting, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you. Have a pleasant evening."

"You too, Kohaku," both Scott and Inuyasha responded in unison.

As Kohaku retreated, Scott and Inuyasha closed the door behind him. Pushing the empty cart towards the door, Scott read a note attached to it, instructing them to rinse off the dishes to prevent attracting insects.

Noting the button mentioned in the instructions, Scott pressed it before reentering their room. To his amusement, he found Inuyasha had already begun indulging in their desserts, having made a significant dent in them.

Inuyasha gave Scott an impatient glance, "Damn, you couldn't wait for me, could you?"

"Hell no!" Inuyasha exclaimed with a playful smirk, his mouth full of dessert. "This smelled too good to wait for you."

Scott chuckled, walking over to the table. He leaned down, pressing a kiss on Inuyasha's forehead before sitting down to join in the feast. They continued their indulgence, the allure of the sweets too tempting to resist. Thirty minutes later, with nearly half of the dessert plates wiped clean, both felt the satisfying weight of fullness.

Pushing his chair back, Scott moved to store the remaining baked Alaska, while Inuyasha did the same with the pie and cheesecake. Once stored, the two made their way to the inviting comfort of the bed. Shedding their robes, they climbed in, snuggling up to face one another, and soon enough, the lull of sleep took them.

The next morning marked the fourth day of their journey, and Inuyasha underwent his transformation, taking on his human form. To Scott, it was an odd occurrence since Inuyasha had already transformed when they first arrived. But he pushed away the stray thought, attributing it to the peculiarities of the supernatural.

Hours later, a sharp pain roused Inuyasha from his slumber, an aching burn that seemed to radiate all over. He tried to shake it off, but the intensity only grew. In desperation, he nudged Scott awake.

"Scott?" His voice was tinged with panic. "Something's wrong. I feel hot, and there's this ache..."

Scott, still groggy, asked, "Where's the pain coming from?"

Inuyasha hesitated, blushing deeply, before pointing toward his groin. Suddenly, Scott caught a distinctive, sweet scent emanating from Inuyasha, realization hitting him. "Inuyasha," he whispered, his face turning a shade of red, "I think you're in heat again. It explains why you've been so needy and hungry lately."

"That's impossible," Inuyasha retorted, his eyes wide with disbelief. "I can't be in heat now; it hasn't even been a full year!"

Scott took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart. "But it has been close to a year. Maybe you're experiencing your heat cycle earlier since you didn't have a pre-heat this time."

Inuyasha paused, processing Scott's words. "You might be right," he conceded. "But we didn't come prepared for this. If we... engage, the chances of conception would be very high."

Scott's eyes widened in realization, acknowledging the truth in Inuyasha's words. "We've only been married a few weeks and haven't even known each other a full year. We haven't even talked about kids," he mumbled.

Inuyasha frowned, a touch of anxiety evident in his gaze. "What are we going to do?"

Scott leaned closer, his voice dropping to a sultry whisper, "We don't necessarily have to have intercourse. There are other ways to alleviate the heat," he suggested, a hint of mischief in his eyes.

Inuyasha blushed, but then a sudden thought struck him. "I don't think your brother would appreciate the overpowering scent of sex hormones and pheromones clinging to us when we return."

Scott nodded in agreement. "You're right. But for the next couple of days, I could pamper you. Just cuddling might help. The close contact could be enough to soothe your heat."

Gratefully, Inuyasha nodded, comforted by the plan.

And for the subsequent two days, they did just that. They cuddled, visited the gym and pool, treated themselves to spa sessions, relaxed in their room, and binged on room service while watching movies.

Scott was unceasingly attentive, ensuring Inuyasha felt treasured every moment. Thankfully, the intimacy seemed sufficient to calm Inuyasha's heightened senses.

The close contact indeed did wonders in alleviating Inuyasha's discomfort. On the dawn of the seventh day, as the first light streamed through the window, both Inuyasha and Scott stirred awake.

After getting dressed, they efficiently packed their belongings. Using two complimentary tote bags emblazoned with the inn's logo, they segregated their laundry from other items.

Sharing a glance, they communicated silently, an understanding developed over the short yet intense duration of their relationship. Scott picked up the keycard from the counter, and together they approached the door. After Inuyasha unlatched the security, they exited their suite, ensuring the door clicked shut behind them.

The duo made their way down the ornate hallway, their steps synchronized. A short walk later, they reached the elevator. Scott, pressing the call button, waited alongside Inuyasha. Within moments, the elevator doors slid open, revealing its inviting interior. Scott selected the lobby, and as the doors closed, the compartment began its descent.

When the elevator came to a halt, they found themselves in the bustling lobby. They approached the front desk, presenting the keys and keycard to the receptionist, a cheerful young woman with a welcoming smile.

"Thank you, gentlemen," she chirped. "Did you enjoy your stay at the esteemed Demon King's Inn?"

Both Scott and Inuyasha nodded in unison, their faces reflecting genuine satisfaction. "Yes, very much so," they chorused.

Her smile widening, she responded, "That's wonderful to hear! As a token of our appreciation for choosing us, please accept this complimentary food basket."

"Thank you, miss," Scott replied graciously, his eyes reflecting gratitude as he accepted the thoughtful gift.

The receptionist's eyes sparkled with genuine warmth as she said, "My pleasure. We hope to see you both again soon."

"We definitely will," both Inuyasha and Scott affirmed in unison.

With friendly waves exchanged with the receptionist, they ventured out of the hotel. The sun bathed the surroundings in a soft, golden hue. As they adjusted to the brightness, they spotted Stiles and Derek emerging from a familiar jeep. The two approached them with casual strides.

Stiles, with an eyebrow raised inquisitively, greeted, "Hey there! How did you find your stay?"

"It was fantastic," Scott replied, his voice tinted with contentment. After a brief pause, he continued, "But didn't you mention that you live here?"

Stiles chuckled lightly, "Yes, we do. Derek and I just stepped out for some grocery shopping before our work shifts start."

Inuyasha nodded in understanding, "That makes sense."

Derek, tilting his head slightly, inquired, "So, where are you guys headed next?"

Scott glanced at Inuyasha before answering, "We're planning to go back to my husband's old cottage."

Stiles, ever the helpful one, offered, "How about we give you a ride there?"

Both Inuyasha and Scott looked at each other briefly before simultaneously expressing their gratitude, "Sure! We'd appreciate that."

Stiles turned to Derek, "Babe, could you please take these groceries to our room? Oh, and let the boss know I might be a tad late for today's shift?"

"Of course, hun," Derek replied with a nod. He walked over to the jeep's trunk, extracting the bags filled with groceries. Employing a nifty trick, he let his tail manifest momentarily to secure the lighter bags. Closing the trunk with a soft thud, he made his way to Stiles and placed a tender kiss on his lips.

"See you soon, babe," Derek whispered, his voice carrying a playful undertone, emphasized by a cheeky wink.

Stiles's cheeks flushed a shade of pink at Derek's affectionate tease. With a playful glint in his eyes, he reached up to scratch gently behind Derek's wolf ears. Derek leaned into the touch, a low moan escaping his lips, a sound of sheer pleasure. The sound drew giggles from both Inuyasha and Scott.

Regaining his composure with a sly smile, Derek turned and walked towards the hotel entrance. Watching Derek leave, Stiles turned back to the jeep and popped open the trunk so they could store their bags.

With careful precision, they placed the complimentary basket and tote bags in the trunk. Once everything was stowed away, Inuyasha closed the trunk's lid. The trio climbed into the jeep, with Stiles in the driver's seat. Inuyasha then unfurled a map, pointing out the exact location of the cottage they were headed to.

Acknowledging the location with a nod, Stiles started the jeep, and they were on their way. Roughly thirty minutes later, the cottage came into view.

"Here we are, guys. It's been a pleasure getting to know you both. Best of luck with everything ahead," Stiles said, a genuine warmth in his voice.

Scott, with gratitude evident in his eyes, replied, "Thanks, Stiles. Your words mean a lot."

With a soft click, Stiles released the trunk, allowing the two to retrieve their belongings. As they approached the back of the jeep, Inuyasha and Scott carefully collected the basket, cooler, and bags. Once everything was in hand, Inuyasha closed the trunk lid and led the way to the cottage's entrance.

Stiles, watching them from the jeep, offered a departing wave, which was eagerly returned by the pair. With a final rev of the engine, he drove off.

Reaching the front door, Inuyasha discreetly bent down to lift the welcome mat, revealing a spare key. He picked it up and used it to unlock the door, swinging it open to allow Scott inside.

And, as Scott passed by, Inuyasha's eyes lingered a moment longer, appreciating the view with a mischievous smirk. He then followed suit, closing the door securely behind them.

They ventured into the kitchen, placing the basket on the island countertop, before making their way upstairs. After depositing their dirty clothes into the washing machine, the two descended back to the living room, settling down on the plush couch for some relaxation and TV time.

About an hour into their downtime, the distinctive sound of the front door unlocking caught their attention. The door opened to reveal two familiar figures: Sesshomaru and Shippou.

The two of them took in the scene of Inuyasha and Scott lounging on the couch, but what intrigued Sesshomaru more was the faint remnants of a particular scent in the air.

Approaching them with a sly grin, Sesshomaru inquired, "So, how was your week?"

Both Inuyasha and Scott blushed, with the former responding, "It was relatively uneventful. We stayed at the Demon King's Inn, attended the ceremony, and shopped for souvenirs and clothing, given that we had forgotten some essentials when we left for the ceremony."

At this, Inuyasha's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. Rising from his seat, he ventured upstairs, returning shortly with a small bag in hand. "This," he began, extending the bag towards Shippou, "is for you, Nephew."

Shippou's eyes lit up with excitement as he peeked inside, discovering a collection of feudal era toys. "You really shouldn't have, Uncle!" he exclaimed gratefully.

Inuyasha, resuming his spot beside Scott on the couch, replied, "Do you like them?"

"Absolutely!" Shippou responded with a beaming smile.

Sesshomaru, watching the exchange, commented, "That was a thoughtful gesture, little brother. However," he continued, his eyebrows raised in a teasing manner, "might you care to explain the lingering scent of sex hormones and pheromones?"

Inuyasha, visibly agitated, glared at his older brother. "For your information," he began with a huff, "I went into heat during our week-long stay. And contrary to what that scent might suggest, Scott and I refrained from any intimate activities.

We didn't have any protection and given the heightened risk of conception during a heat; we chose to be cautious."

Sesshomaru's gaze shifted to Scott, as if seeking verification of Inuyasha's claim. Scott gave a confirmative nod in response.

Sesshomaru's stern expression softened slightly. "I commend your honesty and responsibility," he stated. Then, with a playful glint in his eyes, he added, "However, you should know that I always keep a stash of condoms and birth control in the cottage." He winked mischievously, causing Inuyasha's cheeks to redden even further.

"We haven't taken that step in our relationship yet," Scott interjected, a hint of embarrassment evident in his voice. "We want it to be special when the time comes."

Nodding understandingly, Sesshomaru responded, "It's wise to take things slowly, especially when building a foundation for a deeper relationship."

Well said brother. Scott jokes.

Grateful for his older brother's understanding, Scott asked, "By the way, may I call you 'brother' now?"

Sesshomaru offered a small smile and nodded in agreement. "Of course."

The brief moment of sentiment was disrupted by Inuyasha's sudden query, "Speaking of which, who's hungry?" Almost on cue, the stomachs of both Scott and Inuyasha grumbled audibly, drawing chuckles from Sesshomaru and Shippou.

"Dad, I'll head to the shower now. Once I'm done, I'll whip up breakfast," Shippou announced, darting off.

Sesshomaru stretched and made his way towards his bedroom to ease his tired muscles. Shortly after, Shippou emerged from his shower, quickly dressing and heading into the kitchen. "What's on the menu today? Steak, eggs, sausage...?" he began, listing off.

"And pancakes, bacon, French toast, some fresh fruit, and juice," both Scott and Inuyasha chimed in.

With a nod of acknowledgment, Shippou set to work. As the delicious aroma filled the air, Sesshomaru approached Scott, extending a plastic bag. Within it lay boxes of birth control pills, lubricants, and condoms. With a mischievous wink, he advised, "Just in case you change your mind."

Flushing crimson, Scott gratefully accepted the bag, muttering a quick "Thank you."

Soon after, Sesshomaru busied himself, laying out silverware, glasses, and plates, setting the table meticulously. Once done, he fetched a large pitcher of orange juice and a bowl brimming with mixed fruits, setting them at the center of the table.

As the enticing aroma grew stronger, signaling the food was nearly ready, everyone washed their hands and took their seats at the table, eager to feast.

With everyone settled, Inuyasha, ever curious, asked, "How was your trip to the castle? Were there any issues?"

Sesshomaru sighed deeply, the weight of the memories evident in his eyes. "Our journey was challenging, primarily due to a werewolf ambush. Nevertheless, we made it to the castle, only to discover it under siege by hunters and more werewolves.

While the guards and I managed to fend them off, the castle, unfortunately, suffered extensive damage." There was a clear note of anger and frustration in his voice as he recounted the events.

"Given the current state of Japan, with werewolves and hunters dominating every sector, we're now confined to this cottage," Sesshomaru declared bitterly.
"It stands on Japan's last neutral landmark—a place where humans, demons, and werewolves once coexisted harmoniously.

But I fear that era is drawing to a close." Shippou added, his voice heavy with sorrow.

"Why don't you both move in with us at the castle? There's ample space, and I believe Scott would be amenable," suggested Inuyasha, hoping to offer a solution.

"I'd welcome it," Scott chimed in, seeing the potential for a fresh start for them all.

Sesshomaru and Shippou exchanged glances, clearly taken aback by the offer. Searching Inuyasha's face, they found only sincerity.

"Do you genuinely wish to offer us refuge? To abandon your life here and embark on a new chapter?" Sesshomaru asked cautiously.

Inuyasha responded with conviction, "Our era, the era of demons, is drawing to a close. Our kind is dwindling, and soon, we might vanish altogether. Shippou, Kali, Ennius, you, and I are the last remnants. It could offer Shippou an opportunity to find a mate, be it human or werewolf, just as I did with Scott."

"But you're a hanyou—a half-demon," Sesshomaru pointed out.

"Yes, which also makes me part human. Despite the fact that werewolves are largely responsible for our dwindling numbers, I chose love over resentment with Scott," Inuyasha stated firmly, gazing fondly at his partner.

After contemplating his younger brother's words, Sesshomaru finally broke the silence. "I see the merit in your perspective. We should strive to make a positive impact, even if our time as the last of the demons is limited."

"Does that mean you're agreeing?" Inuyasha inquired, hope lighting up his eyes.

Sesshomaru and Shippou both nodded affirmatively.

With that settled, the group returned to their meal. Once they were done, Shippou diligently gathered the dishes to wash, signaling the start of a new chapter for them all.

"Thanks for the meal, Shippou," they all expressed in gratitude.

"You're very welcome," Shippou replied with a smile.

After their meal, Inuyasha and Scott headed upstairs, deciding on a quick shower before turning in for the night. The warm water was rejuvenating after their eventful day. Drying off, they made their way to bed, fatigue pulling at their eyes.

Sesshomaru, in the meantime, retreated to his own room. Booting up his laptop, he began the process of listing the cottage for sale. A pang of melancholy washed over him.

The cottage had been home to him since Shippou was just a pup, and it had also sheltered Inuyasha for a while. But Sesshomaru knew it was time to move on and offer Shippou the life he always dreamed of.

Over the following weeks, they packed up their belongings, deciding on what to take and what to sell. As they worked, a correspondence arrived from Scott to SS King's Airlines, detailing their return journey and the need for a larger carriage. The response came promptly: their carriage would arrive by noon on the 27th.

By the 26th, a gay couple—an alpha human male and an omega human male, along with their three children, an alpha, a beta, and an omega, purchased the cottage. Having faced rejection and prejudice in their hometown, they sought refuge in the welcoming embrace of the cottage.

On the morning of the 27th, in a gesture of gratitude, the four of them assisted the new homeowners in moving their belongings and setting up their new abode. To express their thanks, the couple prepared breakfast for all, a simple but warm affair.

As the clock neared noon, they shifted their packed boxes outside. The couple and their children, eager to help, assisted in loading the carriage. With everything in place, the time came for goodbyes.

"Thank you for everything," the alpha human said, his eyes glistening. "We hope this home brings you as much happiness as it did for us."

Bidding the family farewell, with wishes for a blessed future in their new home, the four of them embarked on the next chapter of their journey.