When Sesshoumaru and Kagome returned to where Mrs. Higurashi was standing, they found her alone, having already shooed away the three girls with promises that her daughter would call them the moment her hearing returned.
This information only further annoyed Sesshoumaru. Why were all of the priestess's so-called friends so quick to dismiss her once they learned of her ailment? He had spent the least amount of time with her, yet he remained by her side. He glanced over at the young woman and found she did not seem bothered by this, which only meant she was used to being pushed aside. Mrs. Higurashi addressing him pulled the demon out of his thoughts.
"Sesshoumaru, dear. I picked out a few more snacks that I think you might like." She proceeded to show him various bags and boxes with strange-looking artwork and bubble lettering.
"It is unnecessary to purchase these for me." Though he enjoyed how the sugary sweetness smelled through the packaging, he had already selected his treat.
"Nonsense! Feel free to pick out anything that you want to try."
Kagome had been keeping a close eye on their conversation, grateful they were using JSL while speaking. But to her horror, Sesshoumaru began to mention the box of strawberry lubricant he found earlier.
Cutting in, Kagome animatedly signed, "That wasn't food, so no need to get it!"
Seeing her daughter become flustered and red, Mrs. Higurashi could only assume the demon had found something rather… risqué. To save Kagome from further embarrassment, she suggested they check out and then find somewhere nice for lunch.
After leaving the store, they loaded their groceries into the car and walked to a quaint café nearby. The atmosphere was calm, with soft music playing and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. They found a cozy corner table and settled in.
As they waited for their food, Kagome found herself relaxing a bit. She glanced at Sesshoumaru, who seemed to be observing everything with mild curiosity. He met her gaze and raised an eyebrow.
"What is it?" he asked.
"Nothing," Kagome signed back, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Just thinking how different you look here, out of place yet oddly fitting in."
Sesshoumaru tilted his head, considering her words. "This world is strange, but not entirely uninteresting."
Kagome laughed quietly. "I suppose that's a compliment."
Their food arrived, interrupting their silent conversation. Mrs. Higurashi watched them with a fond smile as they began to eat. Kagome, not holding back and hungrily devouring her BFT. While Sesshoumaru took his time, first sniffing the bread, then peeling it back and examining the sandwiches contents, before finally deeming it edible and taking small bites.
"So, Sesshoumaru," Mrs. Higurashi began as she finished her own meal, "what do you think of our time? It must be quite a change from what you're used to."
Sesshoumaru paused mid bite, contemplating his answer. "It is... different. There are many things I do not understand, but it is not without its merits."
Mrs. Higurashi looked over at Kagome who was engrossed in her own meal and staring out the window before she turned back to the demon. "I can imagine. You've handled it well, though. Not many would handle such a drastic change with such grace."
The demon lord inclined his head slightly, acknowledging the compliment. He was sure it had to be some kind of comparison to the half-breed and the way he reacted so strongly to every little thing. "I have had to adapt to many things over my long life. This is just another challenge to overcome."
Once the demon finished his lunch, the three left the café and headed back to the car. Just as Mrs. Higurashi was about to unlock the doors, she paused and turned to the couple. "Why don't I take the groceries home and you show Sesshoumaru around some more?" she suggested. "Souta won't be home for a few more hours."
Kagome looked up at Sesshoumaru and thought for a moment. A museum was out of the question; she didn't want to overwhelm or traumatize the demon. An amusement park might be too loud and crowded. Maybe someplace dark with few people during a weekday. A movie? No, they were unpredictable, and explaining the mechanics was beyond her ability.
"Oh!" she exclaimed out loud, startling the demon she had been staring at while thinking. Turning back to her mother, she signed, "How about the aquarium?"
As they traveled in the back of a taxi, Kagome felt her excitement grow. The aquarium was one of her favorite places, and she hoped Sesshoumaru would find it just as fascinating. The dim lighting, serene atmosphere, and mesmerizing sea creatures promised to be the perfect setting for a memorable day.
Once they arrived, Kagome eagerly led Sesshoumaru through the entrance, pausing to grab a brochure for him that explained the various exhibits. The first area they entered was a breathtaking tunnel surrounded by a massive tank filled with vibrant fish, gliding rays, and sleek small sharks. Sesshoumaru's eyes widened slightly, and Kagome couldn't help but smile at his reaction.
Sesshoumaru watched the fish swim effortlessly above them, his usual stoic expression softening with genuine curiosity. Kagome pointed out different species, signing their names and sharing interesting facts she remembered from previous visits. Sesshoumaru watched her attentively, occasionally nodding or asking questions.
As they moved through the displays, Kagome noticed how Sesshoumaru seemed to be in his element, his fascination evident. When they reached the jellyfish exhibit, he stopped in his tracks, captivated by the ethereal creatures glowing softly in the darkened room.
"These are... remarkable," he signed, his golden eyes reflecting the soft, pulsating light of the jellyfish.
Kagome nodded, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "They are, aren't they? So peaceful and beautiful."
"Beautiful?" Sesshoumaru signed back, barely able to hold back the smile tugging on his lips. "Just like me?"
It took a few seconds for Kagome to realize that he was referring to the sign she had used to describe him the night at his campsite. Blushing furiously, she turned back to look at the jellyfish and missed the quiet chuckle coming from the demon beside her.
They spent hours wandering through the aquarium, exploring the deep-sea exhibits, watching playful otters, and marveling at the vibrant coral reefs. Kagome couldn't remember the last time she had felt so carefree, and it seemed Sesshoumaru felt the same way.
As they strolled through the many hallways, they stumbled upon an interactive exhibit where a group of middle schoolers were being introduced to a fur seal. Grabbing Sesshoumaru's hand, Kagome led him over to the scene. Standing back, they watched as the children got to feed and pet the seal.
"Would anyone else like to feed Choco?" the seal handler asked as the students were ushered away by a teacher. Seeing that Sesshoumaru and Kagome were the only other people in the room, she waved them over.
Standing back with her phone, Kagome giggled while she took pictures and a video of the demon lord cautiously holding out a fish for the seal to take. Choco opened his mouth wide, waiting for Sesshoumaru to drop the snack into it. After a successful feeding, Sesshoumaru managed to awkwardly pat the small seal on the head a few times before the creature was taken back to its habitat.
Sesshoumaru's initial hesitation transformed into a rare smile as he watched Choco waddle away. Kagome couldn't stop laughing, her joy infectious.
"Who knew the great Lord Sesshoumaru could be so gentle?" she signed teasingly, her blue eyes sparkling.
Sesshoumaru's smile pulled down into a frown. "Do not get used to it," he signed back, though the amusement in his eyes betrayed his words.
As they were leaving, Sesshoumaru paused by the gift shop, his gaze lingering on a display of penguin plushies. Kagome followed his line of sight and picked up one of the fluffy toys, turning it over in her hands.
"Do you like this one?" she asked, holding it up for him to see. While they hadn't spent much time at the penguin exhibit, she had noticed how he seemed captivated by the way they swam. He even asked her why they were collecting pebbles and presenting them to each other.
Sesshoumaru nodded, his expression thoughtful as he stared back at her. "It reminds me of today. I would like to remember it."
Kagome smiled and happily purchased the plush, handing it to Sesshoumaru once they were outside. "I'm glad you enjoyed it," she signed. "I did too."
Sesshoumaru took the penguin and held it under his arm. "Thank you, Kagome. This was a... pleasant experience."
Kagome beamed at him, her heart skipping a beat from the way he was looking at her. "We should get going. Souta will be home soon," she signed before grabbing Sesshoumaru's hand and waving down a taxi.