As the night rolled on, the gala seemed to stretch into eternity with its fancy lights and polite conversations. Sesshomaru was in his element, effortlessly chatting up investors and bigwigs, his demeanor as polished as the gleaming marble floors beneath our feet. I followed along, playing the silent sidekick, trying not to trip over my own feet as we moved from one small crowd to the next. My role was limited to occasional nods and polite smiles while Sesshomaru charmed everyone with his smooth words and captivating presence.
The ladies at the gala were especially curious about us, asking nosy questions like, "How did you two meet?" and "What do you find most intriguing about her?" Their eyes lit up with interest as they leaned in, eager for every detail.
Sesshomaru responded with his trademark smile, carefully choosing his words to reveal just enough to satisfy their curiosity without giving too much away. "Oh, it was a chance encounter at a cafe," he would say, his tone casual yet captivating. His answers were vague enough to keep our privacy intact while still engaging the crowd. Who knew he could be both charming and enigmatic at the same time?
Watching him navigate these social intricacies with such ease was astonishing. Despite his usual reserve, his charisma was undeniable. He had everyone captivated, myself included, though I was mostly just trying to keep pace without embarrassing myself.
Despite the opulent setting and the forced smiles, I was genuinely thankful for Sesshomaru's company. He might not be overly talkative, and his comments could sometimes come off as sharp, but his steady presence was comforting amidst the overwhelming tide of small talk and pretense. It felt like an extension of my job, but ten times worse. I could only keep up with the mind-numbing conversations for so long.
As the evening dragged on, I felt my energy dwindling. Mingling and maintaining a constant smile was exhausting. I glanced around, longing for a brief respite from the endless chatter and laughter. It was getting late, and unlike the seemingly tireless guests, I had work in the morning.
Noticing my fatigue, Sesshomaru gave a subtle nod and extended his hand, offering me an escape.
"Would you like to dance, Kagome?" His soft invitation cut through the surrounding noise, sounding like music to my ears.
With a nod, I let him lead me onto the dance floor. As we began to dance, the music wrapped around us, creating a small sanctuary away from the crowd.
As the music swirled around, the distance between us began to shrink with each step. Sesshomaru's voice broke through the melody, his tone gentle. "How are you faring, Kagome?" he asked, his eyes searching mine for any sign of discomfort.
I looked up at him, touched by his attentiveness. "I'm okay, just a bit worn out," I admitted, trying to stifle a yawn. The strain of the evening was catching up with me quicker than I thought.
He nodded sympathetically and continued to lead, his movements graceful and assured. "Would you like to leave soon?" he asked after a moment, his voice low and serious.
I hesitated for a moment, torn between fulfilling my duty by staying and the growing exhaustion that tugged at my limbs. "Maybe just a little while longer," I finally said. "But I wouldn't mind heading home soon."
Sesshomaru's expression softened, understanding my dilemma. "We can leave whenever you're ready," he assured me, spinning me around before latching on to my waist as he drew his head closer to my ear. "You've done well for our first date."
I almost groaned at his words, trying to ignore the shivers that his husky voice sent down my spine as he whispered close to my ear—a tender spot he shouldn't have discovered so soon. I forced myself to suppress the rising flutter within, reminding myself that this was all an act, nothing more.
I couldn't help but reflect on his earlier comment, treating this like a 'first date'. This made me wonder about the nature of our future outings. Maybe it was because of fatigue or because I was genuinely worried, but the question lingered in my mind, bubbling to the surface before I could stop it.
"Will all our dates be like this?" I ventured, a bit of worry creeping into my tone.
"Yes," he replied simply, his tone betraying little emotion.
Disappointment flickered across my face. Of course, this was probably what the rich considered fun, besides blowing off loads of cash on shopping sprees and jetting off to dreamy getaways. This world of lavish parties wasn't really my scene. I longed for something simpler, more genuine. Truth be told, I had hoped for something more... ordinary. But then again, this was Sesshomaru we were talking about. Normalcy was not his forte.
For a moment, I let myself imagine what it would be like to go on a mini getaway with him, or even just a simple date like normal couples did. I could use a change in scenery and maybe allow myself to relax for a second, even though this was still technically, a job. But reality quickly set in, reminding me that Sesshomaru's world was anything but ordinary.
"Oh," I murmured quietly, turning my face away from him. I couldn't help but feel a pang of dismay at his answer, the prospect of more gala events looming like a storm cloud on the horizon.
Sesshomaru seemed to catch the shift in my mood, his gaze softening as he observed my reaction. "However," he interjected, his voice calm yet reassuring, "I will do my best to limit our attendance to such events in the future."
A sense of relief washed over me at his words, a small smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "Thank you," I replied gratefully, the weight of his promise easing the tension that had settled in my shoulders.
Then, he surprised me. "Perhaps you could choose where we go next," he suggested, a rare playfulness in his voice.
I blinked in surprise, caught off guard by his unexpected suggestion. The idea of having a say in our plans was both thrilling and daunting. After all, Sesshomaru was not one to conform to conventional norms, and the thought of choosing our next outing felt like stepping into uncharted territory.
Despite my initial hesitation, a spark of excitement ignited within me at the prospect of taking the reins for once.
"Really?" I perked up at the idea.
"Yes, really," he affirmed, his tone leaving no room for doubt.
His willingness to accommodate my preferences sparked a bold idea. "What about a tropical getaway?" I half-joked, half-hoped.
Sesshomaru's eyes met mine, his expression inscrutable as he considered my idea. For a moment, the only sound between us was the soft melody of the music filling the air, adding to the tension. Perhaps I had pushed the envelope a little too far.
To my surprise, Sesshomaru didn't dismiss the idea outright. "If that is your wish, I can make it happen," he replied, with a hint of amusement.
My eyes widened in astonishment at his response, my heart racing with excitement at the prospect of escaping to a far-off destination for a change. "Really?!" I exclaimed, unable to keep the surprise from my voice.
"Yes, really," he repeated with a slight smile. "You've just made me repeat myself—twice. That's a first."
"Is that a crime?"
"Hn."
I couldn't help but laugh, feeling a rush of giddiness at the thought of him indulging in my spontaneous idea. "Well, consider it a milestone," I quipped, my tone light and teasing. "I have a feeling I'll be breaking many 'firsts' for you."
Sesshomaru's brow quirked up, his expression unreadable as he contemplated the meaning behind my words. "Is that so?" he replied, his voice cool and composed. "I'd like to see you try."
A grin spread across my face at his challenge, and I felt a surge of excitement at the thought of surprising Sesshomaru with more unexpected moments in the future. With a mischievous sparkle in my eye, I decided to keep the playful banter going, grateful that for once, he wasn't scowling or making sharp remarks.
"So, have you ever had to hire a girlfriend to fool your mother and claim ownership of a company?" I teased, arching my eyebrow in an imitation of his usual expression.
Sesshomaru gave me a sidelong glance, a faint smile playing at the edges of his lips as he caught on to my playful tone. "No," he responded dryly, almost sounding indignant, like a child defending his pride. "I can't say I've ever had to resort to such measures."
"Point proven," I shot back with a playful smirk. "See? That's also a first."
"I can still outdo you with the number of 'firsts,'" he retorted, clearly trying to regain some ground. "Like being the first boyfriend to offer you such luxuries, and even agreeing to jet us off internationally for our next date."
His comeback made me chuckle, both at his competitive nature and his unexpected willingness to indulge in the joke. "Well, that's a relief," I teased, giving him a gentle nudge as we continued to sway to the music. "For a moment there, I started to wonder if you had a secret career as a professional boyfriend."
A hint of a smile briefly softened Sesshomaru's usually impassive face. "You'd be surprised," he replied cryptically, his tone light and teasing.
Laughing, I shook my head in playful disbelief. "Oh, I'm sure," I said, rolling my eyes. "But I guess I'll just have to take your word for it."
The ease of our conversation and the genuine smiles shared were new to our interactions. It felt like we were gradually stepping away from the roles we had been playing into something more genuine, even if just for the dance. As the song neared its end, I realized that this 'performance' might be turning into something neither of us had expected at the start of the evening.
"It is getting late. We should depart, before we get stuck here indefinitely," Sesshomaru noted, just as the orchestra launched into another lively tune. "We both have obligations in the morning."
At his words, I felt an urge to hug him for his thoughtfulness. The night had been long, and his consideration was a welcome reprieve. But with the way the crowd had been watching us, captivated by our playful banter over the last few songs, embracing him felt too risky. We had been playing up the 'couple in love' act, and it seemed we'd convinced everyone. Eat it all up, suckers, I thought wryly, but I kept my composure, merely nodding and accepting his arm. As we walked away, I couldn't ignore the envious looks from some of the women. Their stares lingered a little too long, prompting me to flash a cheeky grin in their direction. I'd give them the middle finger, if I could.
"Looks like we're causing quite a stir," I commented, an amused note in my voice as I looked up at Sesshomaru.
He merely raised an eyebrow in response, his expression unreadable as always. "It seems so," he replied coolly, his tone giving nothing away. "But pay them no mind. They can linger here and rot in their pettiness. I've heard enough slandering behind your back. Any insult directed at you is an insult to me as well."
Sesshomaru may be a literal demon in disguise, but he could also be the sweetest angel, when he wanted to be.
…
Stepping outside into the cool night air, I let out a deep sigh of relief, stretching my arms towards the starlit sky. "Ah, freedom at last!" I exclaimed, feeling the tension of the evening melt away. "I've never been happier to leave a place so stifling."
Sesshomaru's voice came from beside me, his tone dry yet tinged with understanding. "Now you know why I detest such events."
Just then, Jaken's car rounded the bend, arriving with impeccable timing. I suspected Sesshomaru had summoned him earlier, knowing his assistant's efficiency all too well. The sight of the sleek vehicle pulling up brought a renewed sense of relief, signaling the end of our obligations for the night.
"At least we have that in common," I replied, managing a smile as I reflected on how similar our reactions to these events were. If tonight was any indication, I could understand why Sesshomaru often seemed so aloof, and why he was such a little shit at the start of our date—surviving an evening in such an environment would turn anyone a bit grumpy. I'd be a gremlin too.
"I take it the evening went as planned, Sesshomaru-sama?" Jaken inquired as he opened the car door for us.
Sesshomaru made a noncommittal grunt, his focus on assisting me into the car. He lifted the hem of my dress to prevent it from catching. As he held up my dress, I resisted the urge to mention that the evening had been anything but uneventful—it had felt more like treading water in a tank full of sharks. Instead, I shot him a pointed look, silently daring him to challenge my silent assessment. But he merely returned my gaze with his usual stoic demeanor, leaving me to stew in my frustration.
"So it went well. Good job on your first assignment, Miss Higurashi," Jaken added, giving me a nod that seemed both condescending and complimentary at once. I forgot how much of a pompous ass his assistant was. I guess he takes after his owner—ah, his boss.
"I am looking forward to our next date that you will plan, wherever it may be," Sesshomaru remarked casually, his words pulling me back from my thoughts. "You better not disappoint."
His comment reminded me of the grand plans I had jokingly suggested earlier. Right, the next date. Internally, I panicked for a moment. Other than figuring out taking multiple days off, which will most likely never fly with Yura, I also had my other bartending job to take a leave of absence. We were already short-staffed at the bar as it was.
But more importantly…Don't I have to pay for things like accommodations and such before we get there?! How was I supposed to organize something that could top tonight's extravaganza, especially on a salon worker and bartender's salary?
"Right. About that…"
As I buckled my seatbelt, I turned to face Sesshomaru, who was waiting for me to continue. "I might have been a bit overenthusiastic about that suggestion. Between my jobs and, well, practical matters like budgeting..." I trailed off, hoping he would catch my drift without me having to spell out my financial constraints too bluntly.
Sesshomaru regarded me for a moment, his gaze unreadable. Then, unexpectedly, he nodded slightly. "We can discuss the details later. There is no rush," he assured me, his voice calm and unexpectedly reassuring.
I exhaled, grateful for his understanding. "Thanks," I said, feeling a mix of relief and appreciation wash over me. As the car pulled away from the gala, I leaned back in the seat, mentally preparing for the challenge of planning something memorable within my means.
Even still, I wondered when the next date will happen. Do I get a break between this one and the next?
As we settled into the plush interior of the car, the silence between us was broken by the unmistakable sound of my stomach growling loudly. Heat rushed to my cheeks as embarrassment flooded through me—I hadn't realized just how hungry I was until that moment.
Sesshomaru glanced over, his sharp eyes not missing the obvious cue. "That has to be remedied," he declared matter-of-factly.
Before I could even muster a response to downplay my hunger, he turned towards Jaken and gave a directive. "To our usual spot," he commanded, his tone brooking no argument.
Trying to brush off the situation with a light laugh, I quickly said, "Oh, it's fine, really. I can just eat something when I get home."
But Sesshomaru wasn't having any of it. With a stern look, he countered, "What kind of date would I be if I sent you off hungry?"
I opened my mouth to protest but his determined gaze made the words die in my throat. I sighed and nodded, resigning myself to his decision. There was no use arguing with him when he had made up his mind.
As the car glided through the city streets, Sesshomaru turned to me, a frown marring his face. "Did you not eat anything at the gala?"
I hesitated for a moment, grappling with the decision to tell the truth or to spare myself further embarrassment. Opting for a middle ground, I shook my head slightly. "Not much," I confessed, my eyes drifting to the view outside, seeking a distraction.
The truth was that I had barely touched my food, too anxious about making a mess or embarrassing myself with clumsy attempts to eat gracefully in my constrictive dress. But admitting that to Sesshomaru seemed too humiliating. Instead, I opted for a half-truth, hoping to spare myself any further embarrassment.
"It's alright." I reassured, waving my hands in front of me, as if that was going to dissuade him. Attempting to lighten the mood, I added quickly, "The dress doesn't leave much room for expansion, you know? And I was worried about staining it. A dry-cleaning bill might've cost me a week's wages."
For a moment, Sesshomaru's intense gaze held mine, as if peering into the depth of my excuses. I worried he might press further, but instead, he simply nodded once, accepting my explanation at face value—or choosing to do so.
As the car decelerated at a traffic light, Sesshomaru reached forward and retrieved a white shopping bag from the front seat. He handed it to me with a neutral expression that belied the thoughtful action. Curiosity piqued, I accepted the bag hesitantly, wondering about the contents.
"What's this?" I asked, my eyebrows knitting together in confusion as I glanced between the bag and Sesshomaru.
He cracked a faint smile, his eyes reflecting a hint of empathy as they briefly swept over my current attire. "I thought you might appreciate something a bit more breathable and movable," he explained, his tone gentle yet matter-of-fact.
Intrigued, I untied the handles of the bag and looked inside. A gasp escaped me as I lifted out a simple blue dress. The fabric was soft and airy, brushing against my skin like a cool breeze. The dress was a stark contrast to the formal gown I wore, styled in a knee-length A-line that promised ease of movement. Accompanying the dress were peep-toed blue wedges with a reasonable heel, stylish yet evidently more comfortable than what I had on.
Staring at the ensemble, I was momentarily lost for words. The thoughtful preparation behind this gesture was surprising, after all the effort and planning that had gone into my gala attire. I hadn't anticipated that Sesshomaru would consider my comfort to the extent of providing an alternative outfit.
"I…uh…Thank you," I stammered, my voice a whisper as emotions tangled with gratitude.
Sesshomaru merely nodded in response, his face an unreadable mask. "I assumed this might be more comfortable for you," he stated, confirming my thoughts about his intentions.
I swallowed, feeling a warmth spread through me. His actions spoke volumes, revealing a side of him that cared beneath the usual reserve. Holding the dress, I was touched by his attentiveness to such details, a gesture that seemed small but felt immensely significant.
"It's perfect, really. I didn't expect you to go out of your way like this," I admitted, allowing myself a moment to genuinely appreciate his thoughtfulness.
"Comfort should never be an afterthought," he remarked quietly, turning his gaze back to the window as the car resumed its journey. His words lingered in the air, a subtle reminder of his practical yet caring approach to what many would see as a mere detail.
As I folded the dress back into the bag, a mix of admiration and curiosity filled me. Sesshomaru's complexity was slowly unraveling before me, each layer revealing a depth I had not seen before. His gesture not only alleviated the physical discomfort but also eased the emotional weight of the evening, making me feel seen and understood in a way that was both surprising and heartening.
I couldn't help but feel a swell of warmth in my chest—a reminder that even the most enigmatic of individuals could surprise you with their kindness.
…
Moments later, the car came to a stop, and Jaken's voice broke the silence, announcing our arrival. Sesshomaru turned to me, his demeanor composed as always. "Do you prefer to change here or inside?"
I shook my head. "Definitely inside, thank you," I replied, eager to shed the uncomfortable dress.
As I glanced out the window, the unmarked building across the street caught my interest. Nestled on a secluded, dimly-lit street, it lacked any signs yet exuded an enigmatic allure. A large magnolia tree flanked one side, its branches draping elegantly over the slanted shingle roof, partially obscuring the building. Vines climbed the walls, weaving a green tapestry that seemed to swallow the structure whole. The entrance, or what I thought was the entrance, boasted an old, sturdy wooden door with a face intricately carved into it, giving the place a whimsical, almost storybook appearance.
"Where exactly are we?" I asked, my curiosity piqued by the building's mysterious charm.
"An old family friend's restaurant," Sesshomaru explained, offering his hand to help me out of the car. "Bokuseno only accepts a select few patrons, and I happen to be one of them."
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the mystery as I took his hand. "As someone who works in the service industry, how come I've never heard of this place?" I questioned.
He gave my hand a tiny squeeze. "As I mentioned, this place is quite exclusive."
Stepping out of the car, I was greeted by the cool night air, which was a pleasant contrast to the stuffy atmosphere of the gala. "This place looks fascinating," I remarked, taking in the enchanted exterior with wide eyes.
Sesshomaru led the way to the whimsical entrance, still holding the white bag containing my change of clothes. "Indeed, it has its unique charm," he said, a rare hint of warmth in his voice suggesting a personal connection to the place.
As we walked toward the entrance of the restaurant, I was so captivated by the charming ambiance that I failed to notice a crack in the sidewalk. My heel caught, and my ankle twisted painfully under me. As I started to fall, Sesshomaru reacted with astonishing speed, swiftly turning around and catching me by the waist to steady me against his body.
"Why are you so clumsy, Kagome?" He chided, his grip firm but not unkind as he steadied me.
Trying to ignore the throbbing pain in my ankle, I took a deep breath to center myself. Unfortunately, the closest distraction happened to be the firm contours of Sesshomaru's chest pressed against my face. Despite myself, I noted the solid feel of his muscles, even through his clothing.
I pushed the thoughts of his nicely chiseled chest from my mind. Flustered, I pushed him away gently, my face heating up. "I-I'm not used to walking in heels," I stammered out.
Sesshomaru scoffed lightly. "You seemed to manage quite well at the gala earlier."
"If I recall correctly, I was holding on to you for most of the time," I countered, my irritation growing alongside the discomfort.
I turned up to glare at him and he stared back at me for a moment, which turned into a defiant staring contest. Neither one of us wanted to accept defeat and look away first. He narrowed his eyes at me even more as if to prove a point that I would lose. My eyes began to water, threatening to ruin my makeup, but I stubbornly refused to blink.
"I know I am handsome, but must you make it so obvious?" He finally said, his voice breaking the tension and my concentration.
But instead of accepting defeat, I did the most mature thing ever: I crossed my arms and huffed. "Hey! Not fair!"
With his hand still firmly on my waist, he used his other hand to smoothly brush back a strand of hair that had escaped his ponytail. "You blinked on your own. There was no foul play involved."
"You broke my concentration by opening up that pretty mouth of yours!" I blurted out, then quickly covered my mouth, regretting my words.
Sesshomaru chuckled, a sound that was both annoying and endearing. "Pretty, huh? So you agree that I am good-looking."
"Ugh! I can't with you right now." I muttered, rolling my eyes as I tried to extricate myself from his embrace, forgetting about my injured ankle. I only made it about half a step before pain shot through my leg, causing me to stumble again. Sesshomaru's arm wrapped around me like a boa once more, preventing another fall.
"Ow," I murmured, my gaze fixed on the pavement as embarrassment warmed my cheeks. "I think I twisted it pretty badly."
"I thought as much." Releasing a sigh, he shifted his gaze to look at my feet, still covered by the dress, while he readjusted me so I was facing upright and standing beside him, his large had taking a firmer hold on my waist. "Hold on to my arm."
I shot him a wary look. "Why? We're not at the gala anymore."
"Unless you want to fall again, I suggest you use me as a crutch until we get seated and I can take a closer look," he replied in a matter-of-fact tone.
"Absolutely not!"
He frowned. "Would you prefer I carry you inside?"
Tongue-tied at his practical suggestion instead of the more embarrassing alternative, I narrowed my eyes at him instead. "Uh, no thanks. I'll hold on to you," I conceded, slightly mollified.
Channeling a small amount of spiritual energy, I numbed my ankle enough to hobble up the two steps and through the entrance with Sesshomaru's support. I felt him tense when I used my powers, but he said nothing. It was good I had told him about my miko abilities during our earlier meetings before this fake girlfriend charade began. Surprisingly, even in his disguise, he was still sensitive to the energy I released.
As we approached the intricately carved door, Sesshomaru paused to allow me a moment to admire the craftsmanship. "Bokuseno's is known for its discretion and its ability to remain a hidden gem among the chaos of the city," he continued, pushing open the door to reveal the cozy interior that awaited us.
He paused and turned to me just as we were about to cross the threshold, "Before we enter, I suggest you tone down your aura."
I looked up at him, puzzled. "Huh? Why? It's barely detectable. I'm surprised you even picked up on it."
"It might attract unwanted attention. And remember, I am no ordinary demon," he reminded me, his voice low and serious.
"But—"
"Trust me," he interjected firmly, and I knew better than to argue further. Something about this place had felt off from the moment we stepped out of the car, and the uneasy feeling in my stomach only intensified as we neared the door.
"Alright, fine," I conceded reluctantly. I took a deep breath, trying to focus on suppressing my energy as the numbing effect began to fade, and a sharp pang of pain from my ankle shot through me.
"Are you sure you can continue?" Sesshomaru asked, his tone laced with concern. "The offer to carry you still stands."
I waved my free hand to assure him. "I'll be fine. You carrying me while wearing this ridiculous ball gown is going to attract more attention than my powers."
Accepting my decision, Sesshomaru stooped slightly to better support my weight on his arm and held me closer to his side. "Very well," he said, as we crossed the threshold into the restaurant.
The warm ambiance of the restaurant enveloped us immediately, contrasting sharply with the cool night air outside. The soft murmur of conversations and the occasional laughter from the patrons filled the space. Unlike the gala, the guests here only gave us a fleeting glance before returning to their meals and discussions, seemingly unaffected by our entrance. Sesshomaru guided us carefully to a secluded corner table, where I gratefully sank into a chair, relieved to finally give my throbbing ankle a break.
The unease, however, lingered, like a persistent itch beneath my skin that I couldn't quite reach.
The waiter approached soon after we settled, and Sesshomaru gave me a nod, indicating I should order first.
"I'll go with whatever he recommends," I said, motioning towards Sesshomaru, trusting his judgment on the choice of meal.
"We will have the special," Sesshomaru instructed the waiter decisively. "And fetch Bokuseno as well."
"Yes, Sesshomaru-sama," the waiter responded, nodding respectfully.
As the waiter departed with our order, I found myself nervously fidgeting with my hands. Despite the lively ambiance of the restaurant, a disquiet settled over me, stemming from something intangible in the atmosphere—not the chatter or the clinking of dishes, but something else entirely.
Sesshomaru's keen observation didn't miss my discomfort. He turned to me, his probing gaze searching. "Are you feeling alright, Kagome?" he inquired, his voice carrying a hint of concern.
Caught under his intense scrutiny, I hesitated, the truth pressing against my lips. His gaze didn't waver, and I knew fabricating a story was not an option.
Lowering my voice, I leaned slightly forward. "There's something... off about this place, but I can't quite put my finger on it," I murmured, ensuring our conversation remained private amidst the surrounding din. "There's a strange presence lingering around that feels unsettling."
"Hn," Sesshomaru acknowledged, his expression unreadable.
"It's not unpleasant," I quickly added, feeling the need to clarify. "Just unsettling."
Sesshomaru's brows furrowed slightly at my response, but then he seemed to understand. "You're sensing the presence of demons," he stated matter-of-factly, his voice low, yet even.
His blunt statement caught me off guard. Demons? Here?
As I opened my mouth to express my surprise, Sesshomaru subtly raised his hand to halt my words. "They can hear you," he whispered.
My hand flew to my mouth as I let out a soft 'eep.' "How?" I mouthed, my voice a silent gasp.
He lightly tapped his ear with a finger, hinting at their acute hearing, far superior to that of humans. I had little experience with demons apart from him, and if Sesshomaru was any indication of their abilities, then I had to take his word as truth.
"Observe the other patrons more carefully," he suggested calmly, settling back in his chair while keeping his eyes on me, encouraging me to look around.
Taking his advice, I scanned the restaurant, letting my gaze drift across the patrons. My eyes settled on a couple nearby. Under the dim lighting and from my new vantage point, I could now discern subtle hints of their demonic heritage—pointed ears and unusual markings near their temples, which had eluded me before in my initial glances. The realization that we were indeed in the company of other demons sent a chill down my spine, mingled with a thrill of curiosity.
As I turned back to Sesshomaru, realization widened my eyes. "They're demons?" I whispered, my voice barely audible amid the restaurant's lively chatter.
Sesshomaru gave a slight nod, his usually impassive face betraying no emotion. Casually, he reached up and loosened his earring. I watched, captivated, as it fell away, triggering a subtle yet profound transformation. His hair, already pale, shimmered into a brilliant silver. A crescent moon appeared on his forehead, and magenta stripes emerged along his high cheekbones. His eyes shifted to a lighter shade of amber that, under the candlelight's flicker, seemed almost predatory.
My breath hitched as I absorbed the full extent of his true form. Though I had glimpsed this transformation once before during an appointment at the salon, witnessing it unfold so close and under such intimate circumstances was utterly mesmerizing.
Even in disguise, Sesshomaru was striking, but in his true form, he was nothing short of breathtaking.
At that moment, it struck me that I was truly in the presence of something extraordinary, far removed from the mundane reality I was accustomed to. Glancing around the restaurant again, I pondered what other secrets might be veiled within these walls.
Sesshomaru caught my gaze, his eyes now deep pools of understanding that chilled me to the bone. "This world is full of wonders," he murmured, his voice a soft echo amidst the surrounding conversations.
That's when it clicked—this was a demon cafe. No wonder I had never heard of this place; it was a sanctuary meant to shield its patrons, maintaining the anonymity and safety of demons perhaps still concealed within the human world. Sesshomaru had brought me into a hidden slice of his world, a place where the extraordinary masqueraded as the ordinary.
Before I could respond, an elderly man approached our table, his chef's coat worn but clean, his face lined with the wisdom of years. As he smiled warmly at us, I felt a sudden comfort.
Sesshomaru gave a small nod of recognition. "Bokuseno," he greeted, his voice holding a mixture of respect and restraint.
The old man, Bokuseno, chuckled softly, his voice raspy but kind. "Ah, Sesshomaru, it has indeed been too long," he said, his gaze sweeping over us with a serene expression. "It's been ages."
"I was here not too long ago," Sesshomaru replied, a slight shift in his posture suggesting amusement. "Your age must finally be catching up to you."
Bokuseno laughed again, his eyes twinkling. "I may be old, young lad, but I assure you, my wits are as sharp as ever." Turning to me, his smile grew. "And who is this lovely young lady accompanying you tonight?"
Sesshomaru introduced me with a simple nod. "This is Kagome," he said, his tone even. "My girlfriend."
I bowed slightly. "Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you," I said, admiring the quaint charm of the place. "You have a lovely restaurant."
Bokuseno's eyes crinkled at the corners. "Ah, the pleasure is all mine, Kagome. And thank you." His gaze flicked to Sesshomaru. "He doesn't bring just anyone here. You must be quite special. And worry not, Sesshomaru is a good pup. You're in good hands."
I nodded, the warmth in Bokuseno's voice easing any remaining tension I felt.
Bokuseno chuckled, looking at Sesshomaru. "You have a good eye, as always. A wise choice," he said, turning back to me with a mischievous grin. "I hope he's not causing you too much trouble. If he does, don't hesitate to put him in his place."
"Bokuseno…" Sesshomaru's voice carried a warning, softer than usual, but still firm.
Unperturbed, Bokuseno continued, his smile widening. "If he still gives you trouble, come see me. I've known him since the day he took his first breath. He wouldn't dare challenge me."
I returned his greeting with a polite nod and a soft chuckle, feeling a sense of ease in Bokuseno's presence. Despite the enigmatic atmosphere of the demon cafe, there was something reassuring about the old man's demeanor.
That look—I've seen it before. My gaze flickered to the intricate carving on the door, and to my surprise, I recognized the face of the old man standing before us. It was a surreal moment, as if the door's carving had come to life.
Bokuseno followed my gaze and laughed heartily. "Quite realistic, isn't it? If I may say so myself."
"That is because you made it yourself," Sesshomaru chimed in, unamused.
Trying to lighten the mood, I faked a laugh, as Sesshomaru's hand reached across the table to cover mine. "You will have nothing to worry about, Bokuseno. As you kindly said earlier, she is in good hands," Sesshomaru said. He squeezed my hand gently and offered me a rare, small smile, as if to reinforce his words and the safety of his presence.
"I didn't expect you to actually go through with your plan, Sesshomaru," Bokuseno said, his tone turning grave. "You must be quite serious about deceiving your mother. To choose my establishment for your first date?"
"We attended the gala before coming here," Sesshomaru responded evenly.
Bokuseno shook his head, a mix of amusement and concern in his eyes. "You are either very bold or utterly reckless."
"It is an effective way to spread the word. Someone is bound to mention it to my mother sooner or later," Sesshomaru explained.
As they continued their conversation, I felt increasingly like an outsider, silent and motionless, with nothing to contribute. I adhered to the unspoken rule set earlier: let Sesshomaru do all the talking. Speak only when spoken to directly. Smile and nod when appropriate. It seemed the gala's formalities extended even here.
"Your mother will be beside herself. Of all the prospects, you chose a miko?" Bokuseno clasped his wrinkled hands together and bowed his head slightly. "Why go through all this just to capture your mother's attention?"
"My mother—"
"Wait." I couldn't help myself; I turned towards Bokuseno, cutting off Sesshomaru mid-sentence. "How do you know I am a miko?"
Bokuseno offered a knowing smile. "I see more than most realize. You are powerful in your own right, young miko, despite bearing a power that is not originally yours. You come from a long line of guardians, and as the current guardian, your duty is to protect at all costs."
My eyes widened, a mix of surprise and a flicker of fear passing through them. He couldn't possibly know about...
I shot Sesshomaru an accusing look, my frustration mounting. How much had he revealed about me? What happened to the strict confidentiality and the non-disclosure agreement I signed? Wasn't it supposed to be mutual?
But as I studied Sesshomaru's face, searching for any hint of betrayal, I found only genuine surprise mirrored in his expression.
"Do not worry, Kagome," Bokuseno reassured, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Sesshomaru has not disclosed anything to me. Your secrets remain safe."
"Then… how do you know…" I trailed off, biting my lip. How did he know I am the current guardian of the Shikon-no-tama?
Bokuseno's eyes twinkled with a mixture of mischief and wisdom. "There are few secrets among old beings like myself. We find ways to learn what we must." He gave me a gentle, reassuring nod, suggesting that some mysteries were better left unexplored, at least for now.
"Sesshomaru-sama, your meals are ready," the waiter announced, interrupting just as I was about to probe Bokuseno further about his surprising knowledge of me. He set down our steaming plates, but my appetite had vanished amidst the confusion.
"Ah, I should not impose any longer," Bokuseno said, his hands coming together in a gentle clap that seemed to clear the air of tension. "Enjoy your meal, Kagome. It was truly a pleasure to meet you. I look forward to seeing you again." With that, he slowly turned away, ambling towards other patrons.
I gripped my fork and knife tightly, my mind racing. How could Bokuseno know such specific things about me? Had I inadvertently revealed something to Sesshomaru that he had passed on? Yet, I couldn't recall ever discussing the Shikon-no-tama with Sesshomaru explicitly.
"The food won't eat itself," Sesshomaru commented dryly, snapping me out of my reverie.
I looked up at him, irritation flaring. "Exactly how much did you tell him about us?" I demanded, unable to keep the suspicion from my voice.
"Before you jump to conclusions, I assure you I've shared no details of our arrangement," Sesshomaru stated calmly, his eyes meeting mine firmly to emphasize his point.
"Then how does he know about me? About my powers?" I persisted, my voice rising slightly with my growing frustration.
Sesshomaru was slicing his steak with precise, controlled movements. "I'm as surprised as you are," he replied without looking up. "Bokuseno has insights into many things—both of the human and demon worlds. He's lived through generations before even my parents were born."
"But that doesn't explain how he could know so much about me personally. Is he some kind of spy?" My voice was skeptical, the mystery deepening with each word.
"He is well-informed, yes, but Bokuseno does not align himself with any side. He observes and keeps his knowledge to himself," Sesshomaru explained, then glanced at my untouched food. "Your steak is getting cold."
"Is he a demon, then?" I asked, trying to piece together the puzzle as I reluctantly began to cut into my steak, my hands still shaky from the revelations.
Amid my flurry of questions and barely touched steak, Sesshomaru finally looked up from his plate and paused, his gaze sharpening as he looked across the table at me. "If I continue to answer your incessant questions, will you eat?" he asked with a touch of irritation, however, slightly softer than his usual stern demeanor.
Caught slightly off guard by his approach, I paused, my fork halfway to my mouth. His question, posed with a hint of challenge, made me realize how my anxiety had overtaken my manners—and my appetite. I nodded, managing a small smile in response, "Yes, I'll eat. Please, go on."
Sesshomaru sighed, clearly growing annoyed with my behavior, but proceeded to explain. "Bokuseno is not a demon in the traditional sense. He is an ancient tree spirit, a living repository of knowledge."
I frowned, still not entirely satisfied with the answer. "So, he just...knows things?"
"Yes," Sesshomaru said simply. "His roots run deep, both literally and metaphorically. He is attuned to the world around him in ways we cannot fully comprehend."
I glanced over at Bokuseno, who was now engaged in conversation with another guest across the room. His frail appearance belied the immense power and knowledge he apparently possessed.
"Fine," I said, finally picking up my fork and knife again. "But I still don't like it."
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow. "You don't have to like it, Kagome. You just have to accept it."
"Easier said than done," I muttered, finally taking a bite of my steak. It was cold, but I was too hungry to care at this point.
Sesshomaru watched me for a moment before speaking again. "You need to trust me, Kagome. If I thought Bokuseno was a threat, we wouldn't be here."
I nodded reluctantly, knowing he was right. Trusting Sesshomaru was still new and strange to me, but I had to start somewhere.
As we continued our meal, I tried to push my worries to the back of my mind. But the feeling of unease lingered, like a shadow I couldn't shake. And from the way Sesshomaru occasionally glanced at Bokuseno, I could tell he felt it too.
"Do you think he knows about the Shikon-no-tama?" I asked quietly, not looking up from my plate.
"It's possible," Sesshomaru admitted. "But Bokuseno is not one to interfere without good reason. If he knows, he has chosen not to act on that knowledge."
I sighed, feeling a mix of relief and frustration. "I guess that's something."
"Indeed," Sesshomaru said, his tone final. "Now, finish your meal. We have more important things to worry about than Bokuseno's knowledge."
I nodded and took another bite, trying to focus on the food in front of me. But in the back of my mind, I couldn't help but wonder what else Bokuseno knew—and what other secrets might be lurking in the shadows.
Sesshomaru shifted the conversation, his eyes lingering on the shopping bag he had brought. "How is your ankle? Do you still wish to change?" He held up the bag with the dress and shoes inside, an unspoken concern etched into his otherwise stoic demeanor.
I glanced at my ankle, feeling the dull throb that had persisted throughout the evening. "Yeah, I do," I admitted, looking back at him. "But getting to the changing room sounds like a challenge right now, especially since I can't use my powers to numb the pain."
Sesshomaru considered this for a moment, then nodded decisively. "Very well. You can change here."
I blinked in surprise. "Here? In the middle of the restaurant?"
Sesshomaru smirked slightly, an expression that was both infuriating and oddly comforting. "Not in the middle of the restaurant, of course. I will find us a more private location."
He stood up and signaled for a waiter, who approached promptly. Sesshomaru spoke to him in a low voice, and the waiter nodded before leading us to a more secluded area of the restaurant not too far away. It was a small, cozy room, dimly lit and away from the main dining area.
Once inside, Sesshomaru handed me the bag. "You can change here. I will ensure no one disturbs you."
I took the bag from him, grateful for his thoughtfulness despite his usual detached manner. "Thanks, Sesshomaru."
He gave a curt nod and stepped outside, closing the door behind him. I quickly changed into the more comfortable dress and shoes, feeling immediate relief as the pressure on my ankle eased.
After a few minutes, I opened the door to find Sesshomaru waiting patiently. "All set," I said, stepping out, still hobbling.
He looked me over, a brief flash of approval in his eyes. "Much better," he remarked. "Now, about your ankle. We need to address that."
I waved a hand dismissively. "It's fine. Just a sprain. I'll survive."
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. "You are stubborn, but that does not mean you should ignore your injury."
I rolled my eyes. "Okay, Mom."
He actually chuckled at that, a rare sound that made me smile despite the situation. "Come," he said, offering his arm again. "Let's get you back to the table. We still have our meal to finish."
I took his arm, feeling a mix of exasperation and gratitude. As we made our way back to our table, I couldn't help but feel a little more at ease. Despite the strange events of the evening, Sesshomaru's steady presence was oddly reassuring.
Back at the table, we resumed our meal. Sesshomaru kept a watchful eye on me, making sure I was comfortable and well-fed. It was a side of him I hadn't seen before—protective, almost caring, though he'd probably never admit it.
"So," I said between bites, "what's next on the agenda? More social events with hidden demons?"
Sesshomaru shook his head. "No. Tonight was enough. You need rest, and your injury needs attention. We will return home after this."
I nodded, relieved. "Sounds good to me. But next time, let's skip the shark tank and go straight to the beach."
Sesshomaru smirked again. "As you wish, Kagome."
A smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I considered the possibilities. Maybe, just maybe, our next date could be something truly special, something that reflected both of our worlds. I made a mental note to keep the lighthearted moments coming, knowing that laughter was the best antidote to any awkwardness that might arise.
For the rest of the evening, we talked more casually, discussing everything from the food to our favorite places to relax. By the time we left the restaurant, I felt more at ease, even with the strange presence of demons around us. And as Sesshomaru helped me into the car once more, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for whatever adventure lay ahead—sharks and all.