InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Blessed Curse ❯ The Dance ( Chapter 16 )

[A/N]

Yume: My mother always told me… "Don't stare at the computer screen reading all your fanfics and whatnots for too long. You'll go blind!"

"Oh, you worry too much mom. My eyes are fine!"

Well, a couple of months later…I walk out of the eye clinic with a new pair of glasses on my face.

"I told you so," mother dearest told me when I got home. Listen to your parents, they know things.

CF: But will that stop Yume from fanfics?

Yume: Hell No! lol. I never do learn do I? But it's official; I'm going blind. But onto the update! FINALLY, the moment you've all been waiting for! THE BALLROOM SCENE!

CF: Recap! Last chapter, Sesshomaru and the castle servants try to make preparations for the `big night' in secret, while Kagome got sneaking suspicions that something shady was going on, which included herself. Her suspicions were confirmed when she caught Kotori snooping around in her room (for what reasons, she doesn't know) who then confessed that Lord Sesshomaru was going to do something romantic for her. Kagome decides to help things along…Meanwhile, Inuyasha gets an inside tip from Naraku about Sesshomaru's sudden attraction to the miko from the future…

WARNING! Extreme fluff in this chapter, and slight sexual tension. Oh, and decently long, for the lack of an update…

[Disclaimer]: (laughs insanely) Surely you jest! (stops abruptly) Wait, that's not funny…. (starts to glower) ALSO! The song, "Only Hope," belongs to Mandy Moore.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Blessed Curse

By: Youkai Yume

Act 16: The Dance

It had truly been exhausting the last couple of days. Sesshomaru seldom found peace as he overlooked the preparations, and it was now in which he took little solace, sitting in the quiet room of his study. There was always some bumbling servant that did something wrong, even if it was the tiniest of mistakes, barely noticeable to be considered a hindrance. Nonetheless, it was an error nonetheless, a tiny speck of dust on crystal clear glass. Sesshomaru couldn't stand for imperfection, in any of its' forms. Everything had to be flawless.

But the real reason why he was so completely stressed out was because…tonight was the last night that he could win Kagome over. Tonight was the night of the new moon. The demon lord sighed, his fingers coming up to rub his temple. It all came down to tonight. If he couldn't get Kagome to fall in love with him, then he could just look forward to being a human for the rest of his life. But strangely…that wasn't why he was so stressed out. For some reason, becoming human wasn't as bad as being rejected by Kagome, not having her love him.

`But why?' he thought. Did he want her to? And was the reason why he wanted her to, almost craved her to, was because he loved her? Either way, the demon lord found it…inexplicably hard to imagine what it would be like not to have Kagome here with him anymore. Not to hear her laughter in the hallways, or see her curled up in a corner in his library. It would be strange not to have Kagome there with him during meals, or not there by his side while he took a stroll in the gardens. It would be strange not to see her read a bedtime story to Rin at night, or hear her singing in the early morning. Without him knowing it, the miko had become such an intricate part of his life, that he found he DIDN'T want to imagine what it would be like without her.

`But after tonight…if all fails…then…'

The sound of distant laughter permeated the air, and the demon lord looked up from his study. The sound was pure, melodic, ringing pleasantly in his ears, and he immediately recognized it. He stood from his seat, and went over to his window. From above his balcony, he spotted a child and an older girl in the gardens, enjoying the warmth of day as it spoke of a coming spring, yet at the same time, they were also savoring the last of winter. Rin threw what was left of the snow into the air, letting it fall upon herself like rain while Kagome giggled.

He couldn't help but smile at the sight of them. He stood by his earlier thoughts. Kagome really would make a good mother. Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes when he saw that the miko carried with her, a basket-a basket full of an assortment of flowers. As the two of them walked among his garden, he noted that Rin picked some of the early blooming ones as she went, handing them to Kagome to add on to her collection.

The demon lord watched them for several more moments, until the elder girl decided that she had enough in her basket and ushered the child inside.

As they moved towards the door, Kagome felt an intense gaze upon her and looked up to where Sesshomaru's window was. But by the time her eyes laid eyes on the spot, there was no one there, only the shadow of a silver figure moving away from sight.

~*~*~*~*~*~

"What did Shippo-chan do when he got the challenge?" Rin pressed, her eyes wide with interest as she listened closely to Kagome's tale. The miko giggled, shaking her head at the mere memory as she walked down the hallway with the child.

"Well, Shippo, being the ever brave kitsune that he was, decided to accept the challenge from Sotan, even though it was as plain as day that he was so scared, he was ready to wet himself!" Kagome said, laughing when she saw Rin squeal in amusement. She had done the liberty of telling the funny anecdote of when Shippo had gotten a challenge from the last of the demons of the Thunder Tribe. She found it particularly cute that the challenger turned out to be no more than a mere child-an adorable girl at that, who in the end developed quite the crush on Shippo.

"Did Shippo defeat the evil Sotan?" Rin quipped, practically jumping up and down with excitement. Just when Kagome was about to continue with the story, Rin suddenly lost all interest and ran ahead, giggling madly. The older girl, raised an eyebrow as she watched her bound down the hallways toward a certain demon lord, hugging his leg tightly.

"Sesshomaru-sama!"

"Rin," He patted her head, "Kagome," he nodded towards her, who had a warm smile on her face and Sesshomaru noticed that his heart quickened for a brief second.

"Ohayo, Sesshomaru-sama," Kagome greeted cheerily, walking towards him. "I was just taking Rin outside for a walk."

"I see. What are those for?" He asked, eyeing the basket of flowers that he saw her with earlier in her arms. She glanced down at said basket, blinking momentarily as if she just remembered that she had them with her.

"Oh, these-"

"Kagome-neesan said she was going to do some flower arranging," Rin piped, grinning widely. "Rin was helping Kagome-neesan get the prettiest flowers!"

Sesshomaru nodded at them then tilted his head to the side slightly in curiosity.

"I didn't know you could flower arrange…"

"I little," she shrugged, "I took an elective class on them in last year. Made a nice bouquet for my mom during Mother's Day. I can't say I'm an expert, but I can make them semi-pretty-ish…" She began to feel somewhat uneasy, knowing that he was watching her with intense eyes, and she began to pick on the petals of one of the flowers. "Okay, I was just a little bored I suppose."

"I see," He answered blandly.

"I was going to the library to do that right now, would you care to join me, Sesshomaru?" Kagome asked politely, though there was a hint in her voice that she wanted him to come. It didn't go unnoticed by the demon lord, and he knew he couldn't resist.

"I'd like that," Sesshomaru said softly, barely audible for her to hear. Nonetheless, Kagome was rather surprised with his answer.

"Really? Wow, I half expected you to say that you were too busy you know, with the um…stuff…" She looked down at her feet, not wanting him to know that she knew about his plans for the evening. Secretly, she had been helping around with the preparations while he wasn't looking, and based on how much progress that the castle has been in, she had to conclude that the day of the "romantic dinner" was drawing near. Kagome was painfully aware of the fact that her face was growing red at the very thought of it.

`No! Ack! Don't blush like this out of the blue! He'll start getting suspicious!' Kagome scolded herself, biting her lower lip. Yet, in her fidgeting, she appeared to the demon lord, more uncomfortable than ever. However, he didn't find it suspicious in the least. In fact…Sesshomaru found it somewhat endearing.

"I believe I can spare myself time to spend with you," Sesshomaru said stoically, but his words caused her to blush an even deeper red (much to her annoyance). She shyly nodded, smiling weakly and the three of them walked together towards the library.

All the while, the demon lord tried to suppress the fluttery feeling in his stomach when Kagome would glance at him from time to time. He found himself doing the same thing as well. She began to talk about random things, all of which didn't mean anything in particular, but Sesshomaru enjoyed hearing her talk anyway, nodding and listening intently, even though as the seconds ticked, all he paid attention to were the movement of her lips.

Rin, who had been trailing behind the two adults, noticed how much her Sessomaru-sama observed Kagome. The child also notice, to her delight and somewhat amusement, that he was edging closer and closer to her as they walked. It went on for a while until she realized that they had forgotten her altogether, so giggling madly to herself, she stopped following them and hid in a corridor.

As she thought, Kagome and Sesshomaru didn't even notice her absence as they continued to the library. She may be a child, but she wasn't blind. Even now, she could see the sparks fly between the two, but for some reason that she couldn't grasp, Rin knew that adults had a much harder time saying how they feel. They would stumble and beat around the bush for days and days in order to figure out exactly what they want to express in which she could blurt out any time she wished.

"What are you doing?" A smooth voice asked behind her. Rin nearly jumped a foot in the air in surprise, but calmed down when she realized that it was none other than Nira, her cat youkai caretaker. She raised a wrinkled brow at the child who was twiddling her thumbs innocently.

"Um, nothing…" She mumbled.

"Rin, I know you. Seldom do you do nothing," Nira prodded, and Rin laughed guiltily.

"Well, Rin was going to go help Kagome-neesan flower arrange. But then Sesshomaru-sama came along, and…" She blushed, "Sesshomaru-sama was making those weird eyes at her…"

The aged cat youkai's eyes widened and she laughed in spite of herself, patting the girl's head in approval.

"Say no more, Rin-chan. You have made a most wise decision," She complimented.

"Really?" Rin's eyes glittered, blushing at the compliment.

Nira nodded, taking her by the hand. "Yes. Come, there are some desserts in the kitchens that have your name on it. They were for Sesshomaru-sama and Kagome-san tonight, but I think they will miss a couple of missing manju buns."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The two were seated at the library's table, the basket full of flowers was placed on its' surface. Kagome got herself comfortable on the tatami mat as Sesshomaru did the same, choosing to sit next to her. When satisfied, she turned to the task at hand, smiling brightly.

"Okay, let's get started!" She quipped; picking up a chrysanthemum by the stem then seemingly paused. The demon lord gave her a questioning look as she looked around the room, confusion plain on her face. "Um, Sesshomaru-sama?"

"Hn?"

"Where's Rin-chan?" She inquired.

Good question. The demon lord had not even noticed his ward's absence until now, and that little fact bothered him. He was usually good with sensing the presence of the child, and to know that she left his side unnoticed brought a frown to his lips. Perhaps it was his dull nose that failed to detect that Rin was gone. Or…he glanced over at Kagome, who scratched her head thoughtfully. Perhaps it was because he had been so occupied with Kagome's own scent that he forgot about Rin.

He averted his gaze to the basket of flowers when he thought of this possibility. "I am afraid this Sesshomaru does not know either," he admitted. Kagome pursed her lips for a moment, thinking.

"That's strange, she was so excited about the whole lesson. It's really unusual for her to just run off like that. Oh well," the miko shrugged, "I'll show her next time," Kagome decided, smiling at the demon lord who nodded shyly back at her.

She picked up the flower once again, and then started to arrange them into a vase that one of the servants gave her. Sesshomaru watched in fascination as she perused the basket, picking just the right flora to add on. His eyes followed her delicate hands as they carefully ran over the stems, picking off the flawed leaves and petals, how they brushed gently over them with feather-like touch.

He had never watched a woman flower arrange before, not even his own mother, for he had always thought of it sometimes as a waste of time and energy. But…as he sat there, his eyes set on Kagome as she put each flower in its' place to make a beautiful display, he couldn't help but think it quite pleasing.

The rays of sunlight filtered through the room, the cool breeze blowing in from the windows, and the scent of coming spring surrounded them. It calmed him, soothed the restlessness that had been harboring on the very edge of his senses for the past couple of days. But it was nothing compared to her scent. The sweet smell of sakura blossoms and jasmine intoxicated him, wrapped around him and warmed him almost as much as the very rays of sunlight itself. Sesshomaru, Lord of the Western Lands, felt at peace…here in this one moment with Kagome Higurashi.

His golden eyes softened when he saw her smile in satisfaction at her work, her sapphire eyes sparkling a stormy blue. She looked absolutely beautiful, he decided, with the rays of the sun lighting her features with an almost ethereal glow.

Kagome, who realized that she was being watched every so closely by the demon lord, began to feel conscious under his intense stare.

"W-What do you think of it, Sesshomaru-sama?" Kagome asked shyly, glancing meekly at him from the corner of her eye. `Gods, why does he have to look at me like that?'

It took a couple of seconds before the demon lord realized that she was addressing to him, and he blinked back into his surroundings. His stoic mask slipped back on easily, and he shifted his gaze over at the arrangement in question. She did a rather decent job actually. It wasn't the work of a professional florist, but he had to admit, it had its' charm.

Perhaps it was because Kagome in particular did it, that it was her own instinct, and perception of beauty that made it unique in its' own way. `Sort of like herself in a way…' Sesshomaru observed thoughtfully. He turned back to the waiting miko, who was anticipating his answer.

"It is adequate," He answered emotionlessly, not wanting to give her the pleasure of knowing that he thought it much more than that…

"Adequate???" She scoffed, "That's just another way of saying it sucks," She glowered, poking at one of the flowers. The Taiyoukai raised an eyebrow at her response.

"Flowers do not how you say, `suck'," He said, watching her hand as they played with a few fallen petals on the table. She sighed.

"It's just a term people use in my time. It means that it's not that great," Kagome explained. Sesshomaru grew silent at this, mulling over her words.

"I did not intend to give you the impression that I thought they were ugly," He admitted quietly, his tone soft. She looked up at him as he said this, surprised to see that all the while; he had not taken his eyes off of her. They were boring into her eyes, as if looking into her soul. Golden to sapphire, fire to ice…His usual cold veil of impassiveness seemed to have disappeared. "No…they are…far from it…" Sesshomaru whispered.

Kagome found herself blushing furiously at the comment. And god help her, she couldn't stop it. She knew she was being stupid. He was complimenting her work, but… `The way he's looking at me…it feels like…' She bowed her head, not daring to look into the demon lord's piercing eyes, for surely, he might know what she was assuming. It felt like he was talking about her.

"Ahhh…You're just saying that," Kagome said cheerfully, trying to push away her thoughts. "But I guess I did okay, considering it's been a while since I've done this."

Sesshomaru could sense her sudden discomfort, and wondered what it was that made her suddenly so restless. His eyes followed her fingers as they ran through raven black hair, and for a moment, only a moment, he wondered how they would feel between his own fingers. He mentally shook himself, forcing himself to focus on something else. Kagome picked up another flower that wasn't used in the basket, a faint smile on her lips.

"It's really too bad there isn't a place for this one…it's my favorite kind of flower," Kagome said softly, twirling it in her hands. Sesshomaru eyed it with interest. It was a simple flower, not really extraordinary or flashy. No, he decided that it was very ordinary. The stems split into three thinner stems, and upon them were dainty blue petals, their color almost reflecting the color or Kagome's eyes.

"Why do you like that one?" Sesshomaru inquired, "It isn't all that beautiful."

Kagome sighed, fingering the blue petals gently. "No, I suppose not, but it's not ugly either. I think it's cute. But to be honest, I am attracted to it because of the meaning it holds."

"Meaning?"

She nodded at this, a serene look on her face.

"This flower, signifies friendship, and love. It is given between those who share a close bond, and means `one who cannot be forgotten'…" Kagome held out the flower to him, in which he stared at for along time. She gave him that warm smile that seemed to melt his insides every time and giggled. "Hence, why it is called the Forget-Me-Not flower."

Sesshomaru gingerly took it from her delicate hand, holding it with the utmost care, as if it would wilt or break in his hands if he wasn't gentle. Golden eyes roved over each and every petal; his mind letting her words sink in. He was wrong, it was beautiful after all. He gazed at Kagome, who was still watching him with kind eyes. How very much like Kagome, he thought, to love something not for its' beauty, but for what it represents, what it stands for, what it holds within.

The demon lord shifted his eyes onto the miko, and his breath suddenly became hitched in his throat. This flower…this forget-me-not was Kagome's favorite. She valued-loved it above all the others, despite its' outward appearance. Perhaps, this was his little inkling of hope. Perhaps, Kagome could love him, for who he really was. Not Sesshomaru, Lord of the Western Lands, but simply love Sesshomaru… Perhaps she could look past his bloodied claws and his cold façade.

`Perhaps…she already has…'

"Sesshomaru?" Kagome questioned, worried about the strange look that seemed to befall him. She gasped as a smile curved his lips, and he moved from his seat to be a bit closer to her. Kagome sat there in an almost dazed and shocked state as his hand lifted from his side and brushed her hair. She was vaguely aware of the fact that he tucked the forget-me-not flower behind her ear.

Much to her surprise, the demon lord didn't remove his hand once he placed the flower in her hair, but instead, let it remain gently, almost tenderly against her cheek. Kagome blushed.

"Uh…What're you…?"

"You're right, Kagome," He said softly, his golden eyes misty, "This doesn't belong in the flower arrangement…" Sesshomaru began to lean in closer and closer to her, his face inching nearer to her own. He marveled at the way she blushed an even deeper red. "It looks much more beautiful on you…" The words spilled from his mouth before he could stop them, and he found himself letting them weave into each of his breaths. He was filled with an aching feeling…a sudden need for the girl before him. And it scared and excited him at the same time.

"U-Um, w-what's your favorite…you know…flower?" Kagome said quickly, hoping to change the subject, but more along the lines of trying to get him to ignore her blush. It was failing miserably, for he could feel it beneath the palm of his hand, which was beginning to stroke her cheek gently. His face still neared hers, and she saw something flicker across his orbs. Butterflies filled her stomach; what she saw burning in his golden depths were desire, a deep longing, and some other unknown emotion she couldn't identify.

Kagome licked her lips. Sesshomaru stared trance-like at her mouth, the aching feeling in his chest growing worse when he saw her tongue moisten her lips for a second. It was almost like she was teasing him…testing him…he momentarily wondered how she tasted. Sure, he had stolen a kiss from her before…but it wasn't a real kiss…

He tilted his head slightly, not letting himself the pleasure of indulging in his thoughts, but settled on nuzzling her cheek with his lips instead. Kagome's breath shuddered and her eyes widened. Sesshomaru smirked against her skin, letting his lips dance across her cheek, and then down to the pulse of her neck. Without knowing it, he placed a chaste kiss on the spot, causing Kagome to gasp.

"My favorite flower?" He whispered into her ear, remembering her question from earlier, "…It's orchids," the demon lord hushed softly into her ear, the hand that had previously been on her cheek now rubbed up and down her neck. "But I prefer the scent of sakura blossoms…" Sesshomaru added seductively.

"W-Why?" Kagome managed to choke out in spite of herself; unconsciously leaning into the tender caresses his hand lavished her with. The demon lord leaned closer to her ear; his eyes sliding shut as he inhaled her scent deeply, letting himself grow drunk on it. His arms wrapped themselves around her body, and she seemed to stiffen with surprise before melting instantly.

"Why?" He repeated, his breath caressing her skin hotly, "Because they remind me of…you…" With those last words, Sesshomaru's tongue crept from his mouth to lick the shell of her ear; Kagome shuddered deliciously in his arms. The desire flooded through his veins, making him hot with want.

Sesshomaru felt all of his restraint and control fly to the seven winds, letting himself get lost in the moment. Before he knew it, he pushed Kagome onto the library floor, pressing his heated body over hers; his hands roamed her body and curves. He relished in the way she grew hot at his touch.

His tongue licked a path up and down sensually, sucking and nipping along her skin. Kagome couldn't help but moan softly, her eyes shutting and her body arched into his instinctively, causing him to groan with excitement. Sesshomaru kissed a path of kisses to her jaw, then down her neck again and to her collarbone. He drowned in her soft cries, reveled in the way her fingers wove into his silver hair. But most of all, he was pleased because she didn't feel repulsed or coil away from his demon touch.

As his hands explored her body, he found that he wanted to touch-to taste more of her skin that was just calling out to him underneath the fabric of her clothes. His nose nudged aside the collar of her sailor shirt, revealing her pale, creamy shoulder and some of her cleavage of him. He nipped every inch of it, nuzzling against her neck. He could tell Kagome was getting lost in the heated moment as well, letting his passion and desire consume her…he nearly went insane with hunger.

"S-Sessho…maru…" She whispered, feeling light-headed as he kissed the curve of her breast. Her arms held tightly onto him now, not sure what it was that suddenly made her want…need him so badly… A warm sensation pooled in her belly, and her whole body suddenly ached with yearning.

Sesshomaru stopped what he was doing; he stared with eyes shadowed heavily with lust at her, searching her half-lidded sapphire eyes. Her breathes came out raspy and uneven, and slight worry overcame him.

"Kagome, are you…okay?" He managed to whisper. She nodded somewhat lazily, as if caught in the same spell he was. She wiggled beneath him in an unconscious effort to get comfortable. The simple act brought a loud moan from his throat, and he instinctively ground his hips against hers. Kagome gasped at his swift movement, her sapphire eyes wide when she felt something hard straining against his hakama.

The demon lord, who was suddenly acutely aware of the situation, went completely rigid. Golden eyes gazed down at the girl beneath him. Her hair was slightly tousled, her clothes were rumpled and parted (he could see a strange lacy piece of clothing peeking through), and her lips were open to draw in breath. Kagome's sapphire eyes stared back at him, confused and questioning.

"Sesshomaru?" She called out to him, blinking away the effects of the spell that had bewitched them.

`What…what did I almost do?' The demon lord slowly and forcefully moved away from her, his body parting from her own. He immediately felt the emptiness from the loss of warmth, but he knew he shouldn't stay like this any longer. He didn't trust himself.

He was now in a sitting position, and Kagome, who had seemingly come to her senses as well, sat up and straightened her clothes, blushing furiously. "Listen…I…"

"I'm sorry," Sesshomaru interjected. She peered at the demon lord, who had suddenly gone deadly serious. His stoic mask was back on, and his golden eyes reflected nothing but the usual cold demeanor that he was so well known for. Kagome felt her heart plummet for some reason when she saw this-when she could see no sign of the fervent demon lord that held her earlier.

"I shouldn't have…" It sounded as if he was guilty almost.

"No, don't apologize…" Kagome started, avoiding his gaze shyly; the demon lord did the same.

"This Sesshomaru does not know what came over him."

"Well, whatever it was, it sort of got to me too," She admitted, her eyes widening at the words that were coming out of her mouth. Sapphire eyes focused intensely on her hands in her lap, which were twisting the fabric of her skirt in nervousness. "But please don't be sorry for it…" The last bit came out in a whisper, but Sesshomaru heard every word.

He was shocked, to say the least. To him, it sounded almost like she liked it, that she didn't regret being touched in such an intimate way by him. In his mind, he almost pleaded with her to give him a sign that she wanted him to continue where they left off, for he knew he wouldn't waste a second in indulging in his curiosity of what lay beneath her clothes.

`Honestly, one taste and you're practically begging for more, craving it like you're addicted to her,' He growled at himself, shaking away the base instinct to just take her away and have his way with her. He had always thought he had more restraint than THAT. Truly, his dignity was at stake here, not to mention what Kagome would think of him. Before his thoughts could get out of hand, Sesshoamru stood up and promptly left the room.

"Where are you-"

"I must take my leave of you. There is much to be done." Not once did he glance back, his eyes had been shadowed by his bangs. He left her all alone in the library, perplexed and shocked at had what transpired. Her hand went up to her neck, where she could still feel the slight moistness of his lips and tongue.

She blushed even redder. `What just happened? This isn't like him…' And yet she couldn't say that she didn't like it…that would be a lie. The way he hovered above her… `No! Bad Kagome! Bad!'

Plainly, she just didn't know what was going on anymore. Kagome glanced over to the flowers on the table, then her hand immediately went up to her hair. Her fingers brushed against the soft petals of the forget-me-not flower. `Sesshomaru…'

Outside, the clouds eclipsed the sun, casting dark shadows through the window. One shadow in particular, flickered across the sky, darker than the rest. But Kagome didn't pay heed to it. All she could think about, was the demon lord.

~*~*~*~*~*~

The night air seemed hauntingly quiet, as the group settled camp. Eerie shadows flickered across their sullen faces, but none of them looked more so than the hanyou of the bunch.

Miroku and Sango exchanged nervous glances towards each other, both knowing what was on the other's minds. Since Kagome had left, they all knew Inuyasha was very broody and grouchy-even more so than usual. He wanted them to stay in one spot, constantly waiting for the miko. Just recently, he had finally given in and allowed them to go jewel shard hunting-but not Kagome hunting. There was much whining from Shippo, since the kitsune knew exactly where the girl was.

However, over the last few days, his mood didn't lighten-far from it. Inuyasha was actually serious. He didn't talk at all, and he was quiet and seemingly angry. Not brooding. Angry. In a way, it scared them even more. Also, Miroku noticed that sometimes at night, he would run off into the forest by himself when he believed everyone was sleeping.

Now he was in his own quiet little corner again, thinking about who knows what as he stared into the burning embers of the fire. But they all had a good guess…Kagome.

"What do you want?" He grumbled suddenly, his eyes not leaving the fire, but they all knew that he was addressing them.

"We just want to know what it is that you're thinking about, Inuyasha," Miroku answered calmly. The hanyou glared at him.

"Not much to know," He bit back. "Get some sleep we got jewel shards to find in the morning."

"You know what would make our job easier?" Shippo piped, and at this, Inuyasha snarled angrily, knowing what the fox was implying. But for once, the little kitsune didn't back down. "Kagome could help us find the shards a lot quicker! Want to go get her???"

"Will you LAY OFF ALREADY?!" Inuyasha shouted, his eyes flashing a dangerous amber. "You've said so for the hundredth time. I want her back too, you know!"

"But so far, you haven't done anything about it," Sango pointed out. "I'm sorry, Inuyasha, we were all really quiet about it at first, giving you your space, but it's been weeks. Kagome is our friend, and if she's with Sesshomaru, she could really be in big trouble. Don't you even care about her? Did you forget?"

"I didn't forget!" He snapped, "And don't you all say that I'm not doing anything to get her back, because you don't know the fuck about anything!" His amber eyes were livid now, brimming with anger. No, they didn't know what he had to go through, how much he lowered himself just to see his precious Kagome again. All they can do is whine and complain, and it was pissing him off.

"Don't get all worked up, we're just saying that while we're waiting, Kagome could be getting herself killed-or is already dead," Miroku reasoned.

"She's not dead," Inuyasha added, his voice growing quietly dangerous. `No, she's not dead…' Just then, a shiver ran up his spine, like cold hand was running its' hand up and down his back. A little voice whispered in the back of his mind…dark, sardonic, and seductive.

The hanyou went rigid, his ears perking up in alert. "Inuyasha…" It called out to him darkly. The hanyou's face became very solemn, and he turned his back to them, getting ready to go into the woods.

"Going out again, Inuyasha?" Miroku questioned, a disapproving look on his face. When he wasn't met with an answer, the monk stood up and approached him. "You've been keeping a lot of secrets from us lately. Like where you keep disappearing off to once in a while, or why you keep insisting that everything is fine. Why is it that you don't go after Kagome, it's not like you! Why is it that you're so confident that she'll just come back on her own?"

Inuyasha threw him a heated glare that shut him up, and effectively did so for everyone else around the fire as well. "None of your damn business," He spat back. "I'll be back," He added, before leaping off into the dark shadows of the woods. "AND DON'T YOU DARE FOLLOW!"

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A smile curved upon cold lips, eyes glittering with satisfaction from the shadows as he watched the hanyou move through the forest. The runt had heeded to his call, coming to him like an obedient dog. `How very befitting,' Naraku thought. `Soon, his brother shall be groveling at my feet as well,' he relished with a sadistic smile. They were all chess pieces in his game, and he was destroying their forces one by one.

Internal damage…such a wonderful thing. The strongest fortress would very easily fall if the foundation was weak. And oh, how Naraku was so good at destroying them all one by one…their bonds, their friendship, and trust in one another. He had never dreamed it would be so easy! And he didn't have to lift a finger to do it either. `Sesshomaru, you are an excellent pawn indeed,' He thought, licking his lips.

The dark hanyou could have kissed Kikyo for setting this all up for him without knowing it. No doubt, she would have done differently had she known this would be the outcome. `No matter…' Naraku thought with a smirk. `She's just another one of my chess pieces as well…easily disposable of course.'

He watched as Inuyasha scoured the area, his nose and ears twitching for any sign of him. He decided to make his move and reveal himself. Naraku emerged from the shadows.

"Ah, you came," He cooed, causing Inuyasha to turn around and glare at him.

"What do you want now?" He growled. The dark hanyou could see quite plainly that he hated being in his situation. `Love is truly blinding,' he mused, if in fact the foolish half-breed was doing it for his so-called love.'

"Tsk. Tsk. Let's not start snapping now. We're allied, remember? I'm here to get your precious Kagome back…"

Inuyasha scoffed.

"Yeah well, whatever it is, get straight to the point. I don't have time for you. Besides, the others are getting suspicious."

"Oh, but this is well worth your while," Naraku smirked, taking off the baboon mask to reveal his hauntingly beautiful face, framed by silk, raven hair. "Kagome seems to have taken a liking for silver-haired, dog-demons, ne?" He purred.

"So you told me. I still don't believe you," He growled. "Kagome may be upset with me for proposing to her, but I know she loves me!" Inuyasha said passionately, "I'll make her see it! And besides, Sesshomaru could never love anyone. He has no heart…"

"You don't need a heart to seduce someone," Naraku commented almost off-handedly. This certainly caught his attention.

"What do you mean by that?"

"Exactly how it sounds…"

"Prove it," Inuyasha snarled. He could see a devious look flash across his crimson eyes, a sick smile on his lips and he chuckled.

"Oh, ye of little faith. Very well, have it your way," He lifted a hand and seductively waved it in the air, summoning one of his `children.' From the darkest shadows, a silver figure appeared by his side. Her porcelain features, and blank eyes betraying the innocence that her childish demeanor she embodied. Kanna's hands clasped around her trademark mirror, lifting it to the air for Inuyasha to see.

"H-Hey! No tricks!" Inuyasha started.

"It's no trick. Look into the mirror, Inuyasha…it won't suck out your soul unless I tell it to…"

He was about to turn away and leave the delusional hanyou to his sadistic games right then and there, but found himself rooted to the spot when the vague image of two figures. Fascinated, he found himself staying for a while to just to see if the murky image would clear.

A couple of seconds passed…it was a man, silver in appearance…and a woman… As the image became more and more clear Inuyasha found that he couldn't stop the gasp from escaping his throat. It was his brother, and Kagome.

"Don't look away, now," Naraku cooed, even though he knew perfectly well that he had him within his spider's nest. Inuyasha couldn't look away now if he wanted to.

Amber eyes stayed glued to the glass, his fist tightening as he saw them sitting together in each other's company. Kagome was talking and laughing with Sesshomaru as if they were FRIENDS or something! His anger grew when he saw the demon lord pluck the flower from Kagome's hand, then tucked it into her silky hair. He growled when he saw Kagome blush a pretty pink-the way she used to blush for him!

To his horror, Sesshomaru leaned forward, and before he knew it, his brother was licking and kissing Kagome's neck, his hands roaming her body. The red began to seep into his eyes, the jealousy coursing through his veins, making them grow hot with vengeance. All he wanted to do was to rip his brother's body off of Kagome's as they fell to the floor, the lust and desire apparent in their eyes. A growl emanated from Inuyasha, knuckles cracking as if itching to break the mirror.

But he couldn't…he wanted to see if his brother was truly capable of doing such a vile, and low act-to touch Kagome-HIS Kagome, was a crime beyond forgiving. But what really hurt, was the fact that she was doing nothing to stop him. He grew angrier by the second, his teeth clenching and his face contorting in disgust when as he watched the miko moan his brother's name softly. He grew insane with jealousy as she clung onto him, writhing beneath him as he groped for her clothes. It almost seemed like Kagome was enjoying it…It was sickening.

"It has to be a trick," Inuyasha breathed, his voice seeped in denial and anger, "If this is a joke, I'm not laughing, Naraku!" He looked away; he had seen enough.

"Stubborn half-breed in denial…you can't handle it can you? Can't take the truth…" Naraku let a sardonic laugh escape him, motioning for Kanna to stop the image before the scene could finish. The silver child shifted the mirror once, and the picture of Kagome and Sesshomaru faded into black. "I'm not lying, well, not now anyway. Must I take you there in person? Just in time to catch them in the throes of passion? Right when he marks her as his own…sinking his teeth and his body into hers? Would that make you believe me?"

"SHUT UP!" Inuyasha growled, letting the dark demon's words seep into his mind as he gave into it more and more… "I'll kill him…I'll tear his fucking heart out," He breathed with a vengeful tone, his eyes a mad amber.

"Patience, you'll get your chance."

"Fuck off, I don't need your help, Naraku. Sesshomaru's a hanyou, right? He's not that big of a threat, and even if he wasn't hanyou, I swear, he dies tonight!"

"You are letting your anger cloud your judgement," Naraku glared, stepping closer to Inuyasha. "Hanyou or not, he is still a formidable foe. Besides, if you came to kill him now, do you honestly think Kagome would stand by and let you?" A sneer graced his features, knowing that he was manipulating the hanyou exactly as planned. "You saw how she fell under his seduction. Kagome is, after all, fiercely loyal…she could mistake her lust for love, and would protect Sesshomaru with her life. You can't kill her too, can you?"

A long silence. Inuyasha huffed; knowing that Naraku had a point. But his anger was still fueled. "I can't just stand by and…"

"I told you, I'll get Kagome to come crawling back to you. And when she leaves her precious taiyoukai by himself, that is when you can stain your sword with his blood," Naraku advised.

"You keep talking, but I have yet to see how you'll do all of this."

He smiled darkly, chuckling to himself before beckoning Inuyasha to come closer. He reluctantly complied. To his surprise, Naraku's hand shot up to jerk Inuyasha forward, mere inches from his own face. Inuyasha shuddered in disgust as he felt Naraku's voice usher against his ear, his breath on his neck.

"You really want to know?" he purred, his grip on Inuyasha's silver hair not slackening. "Tonight truly is the best night to strike. The terms of Sesshomaru's curse is that he has to win the love of a mortal by the night of the full moon. If he fails…"

"He'll stay a hanyou?"

"Oh! Much worse than that!" Naraku laughed, letting Inuyasha go, "He'll be cursed to be human for all eternity!"

Inuyasha's wheels began to turn. `Sesshomaru turns human after tonight! This is my chance…' But then…there was a hitch in his plan. He glanced up with conflicting amber eyes. Naraku didn't know…Sesshomaru wasn't the only one turning human…he himself would be as human on this night as well. `Fuck, I almost forgot!' But…if he said that he couldn't tonight, the dark hanyou might take wind of what's going on. Inuyasha bit his lower lip, not sure what to do.

"Here's the plan," Naraku continued when he was met with nothing but silence.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The girl fidgeted in her seat uncomfortably, trying to suppress the flurry of excitement from bursting. Her hands twisted her skirt in her lap, and every emotion was apparent in her sapphire eyes.

"Why are you so nervous?" Kotori giggled from behind, "It's not like you don't know about what's going on tonight." Her nimble fingers worked on Kagome's hair, tying it up and experimenting with different styles that she had also seen in the magazine.

"I know," Kagome said exasperatedly, looking at herself in the mirror. "But I can't help it! I guess it's just the whole prospect of having a romantic dinner with Sesshomaru that's got me so worked up. I mean, it still hasn't quite sunken in yet, you know?"

Kotori giggled at this, nodding her head in agreement. "I know what you mean. It is even more shocking for me. I have served under milord's for most of my life, and never in my life have I ever seen him like this…"

"Like what?" Kagome inquired, glancing at Kotori in the mirror. She saw the lynx smile wryly.

"In love."

The girl's eyes widened considerably, mouth open slightly in shock at the words. Then as quickly as her shock overcame her, she closed her mouth and pouted at her. "Don't joke Kotori. That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard!" She waved the notion aside with her hands, laughing to herself. But Kotori wasn't laughing-she was smiling; but it wasn't a teasing smile. It was serious, if there is such a thing as a serious smile…

"Kotori…"

"You know what, Kagome-san? I think you're hair would look better down," She said cheerfully. Kagome had a sneaking suspicion that she changed the subject on purpose, but decided not to bother about it. She looked into the mirror, and after much thinking, nodded.

"You're right. I do look better just the way I am. That saves a lot of hair pins I suppose," Kagome brushed her luscious locks, watching Kotori as she walked over to the closet. "Oh, this is a formal occasion, of course."

The lynx demoness looked over to the girl, a twinkle in her eye. "Yes, Kagome-san, and I have just the perfect dress for the occasion!"

"Dress? Not kimono?" she was very intrigued now, standing up from her seat and walked over to where the female youaki stood. Kotori pulled out clothes that most definitely wasn't a kimono… It was an elegant, strapless ballroom gown, periwinkle blue in color and flowing in its' material. She could see the fine stitch work in its design that was splayed all over the hem of the dress. But she loved it because even though it was simply beautiful in its' work, it was simple nonetheless.

"Oh my gosh! It's…it's…" Kagome paused, causing the very anxious Kotori to falter a bit, "strangely familiar…" she took the dress into her hands, and ran over to the mirror, pressing it against her frame to see how it would look, and fit on her. "This is the prom dress that I wanted…"

"You got it!" Kotori quipped cheerfully, obviously proud of her work. "I remember you mentioned it when you were looking through your magazine, and I knew it would be perfect for this occasion!"

"So that's why you borrowed it," Kagome realized, still in awe of the beautiful gown.

"Hai. I worked very hard to make it. Many hours staring at that fashion magazine of yours before I figured out how to sew it all up," she nodded matter of factly, "But I think it came out really nicely in the end. I have to give you at least one surprise tonight."

"Oh, Kotori, it's perfect!" the miko twirled it around before hugging one very pleased dressmaker.

"Your welcome, Kagome-san…" she said rather shyly, patting Kagome's back. "Let me help you put it on…"

As soon as she was finished dressing, Kagome promptly modeled for Kotori, who clapped her hands in approval. "Lord Sesshomaru won't be able to take his eyes off of you tonight!"

Kagome blushed a deep crimson, looking at her feet. "I told you to stop teasing…" A knock on the door brought them out of their conversation, and they both looked to see a green toad at the door.

"Ahem, dinner is served, milady…" Jaken bowed.

"Be there in a sec," Before Kagome could lead the room, however, she was stopped by a soft hand. She turned back to Kotori, who had a hopeful look on her features.

"Kagome-san, PLEASE try to ACT surprised for Sesshomaru-sama…he really wanted to impress you tonight."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"You look just fine, milord!" Aki said for the umpteenth time to the rather distressed demon lord. Sesshomaru had not stopped pacing the dining room since Jaken left to fetch the girl, and quite frankly, the badger was beginning to get dizzy watching him go back and forth and back and forth…

"This is it," the demon lord muttered, "This is my last chance to undo this curse, or I shall be cursed for all of time."

Aki looked thoughtful for a minute, rubbing his snout. "You shouldn't be too concerned, milord. I'm sure she returns your feelings. I do hope, however, that you're doing this purely to break the curse."

Sesshomaru stopped his pacing, looking at the shoji door. `She's coming…' He thought anxiously. He could hear her footsteps down the hallway, smell her sweet scent wafting through the corridors. The familiar aching feeling consumed him…the strong desire to see her once more taking over his senses. Sesshomaru took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm.

He turned his mind over to the question asked by Aki. The curse? He had asked himself this question many times before; asking himself if Kagome was just a tool he could use to escape damnation, or if he really saw her as his savior-not from the curse, but from loneliness. Perhaps…it would be nice to be loved, to be held and adored by Kagome. Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad…no, strike that, wonderful to have her as his mate. The curse being lifted was sort of like the icing on the cake…

The Taiyoukai wasn't sure about any of this, but he knew that all uncertainties, all questions would be answered tonight. He was rather relieved that Kagome would come to dinner tonight either way. `After what happened in the library…' His blood went hot at the memory. He knew it had been wrong, and that he had overstepped a certain boundary, but he couldn't deny it. He savored every taste he got of her. It was a miracle she didn't reject him altogether.

"Presenting Lady Kagome," a voice squawked. Sesshomaru was snapped out of his reverie, looking down at Jaken who was at the door.

"I told you not to call me that!" Kagome appeared shortly after at the shoji door, nudging Jaken with her foot slightly before smiling at Sesshomaru.

"Good evening, Sesshomaru-sama."

The demon lord's breath became hitched in his throat, eyes wide as he drank in the sight of her. He had never seen that type of kimono before…The fabric hugged Kagome's curves in all the right places, and colors matched her eyes. His eyes studied her angelic face, framed by her raven hair, which fell to her creamy shoulders. He silently appreciated the mild exposure of skin, and imagined planting kisses there later…

If he could describe her in one word, it wouldn't be beautiful. It would be perfect. He was almost sure gawking, and made a mental note to compliment Kotori later for her fine work.

"Y-You're staring, Sessho," Kagome whispered, blushing fiercely under his gaze. Sesshomaru shook himself and smiled.

"So I am," He commented, taking Kagome's small hand into his own and bringing it to his lips. "But I couldn't help myself. You look beautiful tonight, Kagome," His lips descended upon the back of her hand in a tender kiss, and she grew redder at the gesture.

"You're very handsome as well," she said shyly back, finding herself staring at him as well despite of herself. He was wearing a kimono much like the one he usually wore, though the flowers and pattern were of a blue violet hue. His armor was gone, but his sash was in its' usual spot, the design that of a dog demon howling at the moon. Kagome had to say he looked, how most of the girls say, HOT. `But then again,' Kagome thought deviously, `he's look hot in anything…or nothing at all…ACK! Bad, Kagome! Bad!'

The demon lord quirked an eyebrow, at the flurry of emotions that flashed across her attractive features, and mentally chuckled. She truly was too cute for words sometimes. He tugged at her hand and motioned for her to sit, in which she quietly nodded, still smiling warmly at him.

He made a mental note to keep it there for the remainder of the night. As she seated herself on the tatami mat, Kagome's eyes scanned the food already waiting on the table. Her mouth watered on the spot at all the different kinds of dishes, and noted that some of them were recipes from her time. She shot a knowing look over at Aki, who was at the corner of the room. He waved back.

They sat, eating in silence. There wasn't much to be said, but Sesshomaru enjoyed her company all the same. He always did, he admitted that. Throughout the entire meal, he watched her eat, once in a while bringing food to his own lips as well. Kagome stole a few glances at him as well, and though he could tell she was shy under his gaze, she wasn't uncomfortable.

"Rin isn't joining us, tonight?" She asked, playing dumb. "And why is it so formal?"

"No, just the two of us," Sesshomaru said casually, not taking his eyes off of her.

"O-Oh," Kagome blushed, even though she knew it was no surprise, it still brought butterfly to her stomach. Especially since he was speaking to her in such a low and seductive tone.

The meal progressed just as Sesshomaru planned. The atmosphere was perfect, and Kagome seemed to let the tension ease away, enjoying herself immensely. Once in a while, she would laugh at something he said, and although he couldn't understand what it was that made it so funny, he basked in her mirth anyway.

Though, beneath his cool demeanor, the excitement in him wouldn't fade. Each second, each breath that he spent with her made the beating of his heart quicken. While she ate, he couldn't turn away from her lips, which he so desperately wanted to taste. `Not yet,' he reminded himself.

It wasn't until he felt Kagome's warm hand upon his that he realized she had been calling out to him.

"Sesshomaru?" She urged, squeezing his hand.

"Hn?"

"I said, do you know how to dance?"

The demon lord was taken aback by this sudden question, and his golden eyes flickered in curiosity. "Why do you suddenly ask?" Sesshomaru inquired, squeezing her hand in return. Kagome blushed, looking away at this.

"Ah, well, it's because…" She licked her lips, slowly, finding her words, "I wanted to…dance with you…"

"…Excuse me?" He asked, rather shocked at her suggestion. She became more flushed than ever.

"I mean! If you want to of course! Because…you know, with the dress, and the dinner, and the romantic atmosphere…" Kagome rambled, looking everywhere but his face. When she was met with nothing but silence, she felt her heart plunge in disappointment. She didn't know why it meant so much to her, but she had truly wanted…to dance with Sesshomaru. "It's okay, it's stupid anyway," she waved the notion aside.

The taiyoukai took her hand in his and pressed it against his chest, shaking his head. "No…it's not that I don't want to, Kagome. It's…I don't…" Now it was Sesshomaru's turn to be embarrassed. "I have never danced…with anyone before. I don't know how," he admitted.

Kagome's features lit up once again, and a soft giggle escaped her lips, causing him to pout-actually pout at her! "Oh, Sessho, it's okay. I'll teach you," Kagome offered sweetly, "Please?"

How could he resist? Silently, the demon lord cursed himself for giving into her so easily. It was becoming a habit, but he felt the strong desire to please her. Sesshomaru nodded, and without a second thought, she was on her feet and excitedly pulling him to his as well.

She led him into the garden, where the flowers had already bloomed, thanks to the spell that Aki and Jaken cast upon them. He heard her mumble, "Yup, perfect," under her breath. Wordlessly, he followed her as they stopped at a clearing in front of the pond.

"Here?"

"Uh huh," Kagome nodded, smiling at him. "Here."

"…How are we to dance if there is no music?" The demon lord asked, just realizing that it would seem awkward just dancing to nothing but the silence of the night. A sly smile crossed her features, one that caused him to raise an eyebrow.

"Taken care of! Kotori!" Kagome called out. Sesshomaru glanced backwards, and sure enough, the lynx youkai was there, holding a rather strange looking box and waving. Aki, Nira, and even Jaken were standing beside her. Wordlessly, she bent down and pushed a button, and much to the demon lord's surprise, music began to come from it.

"What is this…?" He found himself asking.

"It's called a boom box. It plays music! Cool, huh?"

It was indeed interesting, a pleasing melody drifting through the night air.

"I haven't seen it before. You didn't pull that from your bag, did you?" Sesshomaru peered down at her suspiciously, and Kagome knew he was catching on.

"No. I had Kirara pass through the well and get it for me. I brought it specifically for tonight," She admitted guiltily, hoping that he wasn't mad at her.

"Tonight? You mean you knew…?"

"H-Hai," Kagome stammered, clutching onto his arm tightly. "Please don't be mad! I just wanted to help!"

The taiyoukai sighed, knowing that he couldn't be angry with her if he tried. No, instead he shot a look over at his servants, knowing that one of them let the information leak. Kotori fidgeted…aha. There was the culprit. `I shall deal with her later,' he growled, but his thoughts were quickly cut off when he felt Kagome's hand tugging at his own.

~There's a song that's inside of my soul

It's the one that I've tried

To write over and over again ~

"Here, put your arm around me," Kagome instructed softly, starting her lesson. Sesshomaru found that his arms had gone limp, and he numbly let her position his hands to how she saw fit. To his surprise, she let it rest upon her waist. Her hand went up to rest upon his shoulder. Sesshomaru felt his heart beating rapidly once more with excitement. "Now, hold my hand like this," he complied, holding her hand gently within his palm, marveling at how it fit into his own large one.

~ I'm awake in the infinite cold

But you sing to me over and over and over again ~

"Now?" He asked impassively, though he could feel his hear beating a million miles per hour.

"Now, we dance. Waltz, if you want to be more specific," Kagome smiled, and before he knew it she was leading. His movements were awkward at first, following Kagome's as she swayed gracefully to the tune. She giggled at the demon lord's endearing behavior, and went slow so that he could catch onto the steps of the waltz. It didn't take long for him to learn, and Kagome was very pleased when somewhere…in mid-dance, it was he who was leading.

~ So I lay my head back down

And I lift my hands and pray

To be only yours, I pray to be only yours

I know now you're my only hope ~

Sesshomaru listened to the lyrics of the song intently, mesmerized by the words. It spoke, on so many levels of himself, and he wondered how Kagome could have shown that she understood him so much just by playing this simple song. He gazed at the girl in his arms, who was humming the tune to herself in a softly.

"This song…" he said softly.

"Like it? It's my favorite song. I listen to it all the time, especially when I'm upset or lonely. It really makes me feel better," Kagome sighed, unconsciously edging closer to him.

~ Sing to me the song of the stars

Of your galaxy dancing and laughing and laughing again ~

"Spin me," Kagome said gently, almost lazily as she became comfortable in the demon's arms. He gave her a questioning look, in which she smiled and demonstrated for him. He almost felt disappointed for a moment when she pulled away, only to have it dissipate as she twirled before him, her hand still holding onto his own. Soon, she went back into his embrace, in which he eagerly welcomed to her, and the waltz continued anew.

~ When it seems like my dreams are so far

Sing to me all the plans that you have for me over again ~

"You're an excellent dancer," Kagome commented, leaning onto his chest unconsciously. Both of her hands were now on his shoulders, and she gave a content sigh.

"As are you…" Sesshomaru felt the warmth rise within him, and hesitantly, his arms held her tighter as well, though their dance continued.

~ So I lay my head back down

And I lift my hands and pray

To be only yours, I pray to be only yours

I know now you're my only hope ~

The demon lord tucked her head under his chin, feeling for the first time, completely, and undoubtedly at peace, dancing here under the stars to a melody that spoke only of his bliss. He was so caught up in the moment that he failed to notice the servants give him a thumbs up from the sidelines, inwardly cheering at the progress that their master made with his feelings.

~ I give you my destiny, I'm giving you all of me

I want your symphony singing me all that I am ~

Sesshomaru deeply inhaled her scent, imprinting it, and her, and this entire moment forever into his mind. Golden eyes peered with fervor up at the completely darkened sky, the moon no where in sight. He had forgotten all about the new moon, all about the curse as he danced with Kagome. He could think of nothing else but her, and gods, that was exactly how he wanted it. He wanted this moment to last forever.

Kagome sighed softly, nuzzling into the crook of his neck, sending a small shiver down his spine. Oh, how completely intoxicating this creature was; how silently, and unexpectedly she had woven her spell around his heart. Instinctively, he planted a kiss upon her forehead, holding her closer to himself in an almost protective manner.

~ From the top of my lungs

I'm giving it back ~

He could care less about his curse, because all he saw now…was the blessing that it brought. His Kagome, the girl nestled so comfortably in his embrace. All the while, he couldn't help but realize…how right it felt to have her here with him. How much he wanted-no needed her there. He could almost thank that wretched witch Kikyo for cursing him, for if she hadn't, he wouldn't be dancing with her, holding her, falling in love with her this moment.

And that was when all doubts faded away. He could deny it no more. His fate had been sealed.

`Kagome…what have you done to me? How is it that you make me burn with such desire, such passion? When was it that I began to love you?'

~ So I lay my head back down

And I lift my hands and pray

To be only yours ~

He didn't know when their innocent dance became so much more than that. Their bodies pressed closer together, his hands roving over her bare back and curves while hers rubbed his chest. He resisted the urge to kiss her face, her lips, her skin. Their bodies moved as one in an almost sensual dance, lost in the melody, and drowning in the other's eyes.

~ I pray to be only yours ~

Sesshomaru searched her half-lidded eyes for a sign-any sign that she felt the same way. His heart had not stopped beating so rapidly since the evening began. He desperately needed for her to give him even the tiniest inkling that she burned for him the way he did for her.

~ I pray to be only yours ~

`Forget about Inuyasha,' He pleaded to her in his mind, `Think of only me; love no one else but me…' It was selfish, he knew it, but gods, he wanted it to be that way so badly. The song was slowing, and so was their dance. `No…' He felt his heart twinge in disappointment. The song was starting to end…

~ I know now

You're my only hope… ~

As the melody faded into the cool air of the night, so did their trance. Kagome blinked away the haze of the moment, blushing at his nearness. Hesitantly, she broke their gaze, but to his surprise, she did not draw away from him. No, Kagome still remained safely in his arms; not ready to give up the warmth they shared.

With a smile on his face, he took her away from their makeshift dance floor, and led her on a starlit stroll. Kagome held onto his arm the entire time, a content in her eyes.

"Kagome…" Sesshomaru started, speaking to her for the first time since their waltz ended.

"Yes, Sesshomaru?" She looked up at him, her expression tender and affectionate. He swallowed. God, he had to know how she felt, he felt like he would go insane with want.

"I have kept you here…as a prisoner in my castle," He said slowly, a tone of regret apparent in his voice. "I admit, my first intention of keeping you here was to lure Inuyasha and take the Tetsusaiga."

"…I see," Kagome whispered, her smile fading. He brought a hooked finger under her chin and forced her eyes upon his, golden depths pleading with hers.

"Please understand, Kagome," he continued, "I did not know that you would fill an emptiness within myself that I thought could never be complete. This Sesshomaru was blind to see that your very presence would bring contentment to me. What I feel for you when I have taken you in as a prisoner, is not the same as how I feel for you now…"

"Sessho?" She could tell it took a lot in himself to be able to admit this to her, and she felt the butterflies fill her stomach once more. `Could it be…that he's trying to say…' "And, just how do you feel about me now?"

Slender fingers ran through silver locks as he struggled to put his feelings into words. "You have become…precious to me, Kagome Higurashi. I will admit right now, that I am a selfish youkai. I have kept you here for selfish reasons, and if I had it my way, I would have you to remain here with me for all eternity." He took in a shuddering breath, a blush coming to his usually pale cheeks.

"But, I cannot ask such a thing of you…especially if you are not content here with me. So, I have to know, Kagome…" They stopped, and she looked up with questioning eyes, and a pretty blush on her cheeks as he turned her around to face him. A gentle hand came up to cup her face tenderly, almost soothingly. "Are you happy here…with me?"

Kagome gasped when he asked him this, and shock came over her eyes when she saw that only honesty shined within his eyes. And that was a definite first as well. For the first time, the demon lord wasn't hiding from her. He bared everything to her, showing his underside so to speak. `He really cares about me, doesn't he?' She felt her heart ache in a way that she couldn't possibly say she felt before.

Sesshomaru's very gaze made her burn with a strange feeling that she couldn't quite describe. It was more intense than anything she had ever felt for Inuyasha… She couldn't lie to him…she didn't want to lie to him. Because the fact of the matter was…

"Yes, Sesshomaru. And to be totally honest, I don't think I've ever been happier…" Kagome said softly, and he could tell that she meant every word. He could feel something akin to elation, and refrained from kissing her senseless right then and there. He supposed the thing that stopped him was the fact that the warm smile faded from her lips just a few moments after she said them. `Please god,' Sesshomaru pleaded in his mind, `Please don't let her regret what she said.'

"Kagome?" He called out softly, "Daijabou?"

"H-Hai," Kagome responded, giving him a weak smile and to his surprise, she comfortably leaned against his strong chest. "It's just that…even though I'm happy being here with you, I feel almost as if I shouldn't be."

"I don't understand," and truly he didn't. If she was content, why should she seek unhappiness? A sigh escaped her.

"I'm in the Feudal Era for a reason, Sessho. I'm supposed to be with my friends and helping them collect the shards. Sometimes, I can't help but feel like while I'm here enjoying myself-and I admit I've grown attached to this place, that I should be helping them. I wonder what they're doing now…if they're okay…"

"You miss them," Sesshomaru interpreted, and although it pained him, he understood what she was saying. She nodded against him. The taiyoukai held her closer, giving her all the comfort he could offer. He knew it was too much to believe that he could make her forget about her friends…forget Inuyasha. She was, after all, loyal to a fault.

Then, as if on cue, their moment was broken when Aki called out to him from the side. His voice sounded urgent. Reluctantly, the dmeon lord let go of the miko in his arms, sending a glaring look at the badger.

"What is it, Aki? I thought I told you no interruptions…"

"I know, milord," Aki bowed, "But it's very important. We have a visitor."

"A visitor?" Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes, "Send them away."

"I'm afraid you won't want to turn this one away, milord. Especially since he is here to see Kagome…"

"Me?" the girl in question pointed at herself. Sesshomaru knew he couldn't turn their visitor away now, much to his annoyance. Wordlessly, they followed Aki into the main room, in which a little surprise awaited for them.

When the shoji screen door opened, Kagome gave out a loud gasp, her eyes wide with mixed shock and joy. Their in the room, sitting on the tatami mat, crying and tired with a distressed look on his childish face was…

"SHIPPO!"

End Chapter

Yume: I have to be honest. I'm sorry. I took an extremely long time to update, and hopefully these twenty pages will keep you going for a little while longer.

CF: NOW THE ACTION BEGINS!

Yume: (groan) I really dread writing the next chapter…but hey, it has to be done. COMING UP NEXT UPDATE! Kagome's friends are in danger, and Naraku's true intentions are made known. Can Sesshomaru love her enough to let Kagome go? And what of Inuyasha? Will he finally open his eyes?

CF: READ AND REVIEW! No flames please…

Yume: I'll try to update as soon as possible. As this fic is no doubt almost ending, this is what I'll probably do. I'll put off writing my other fics until this one is finished. I think about four or three more chapters will do it. Thanks for reading! And thanks for all of your reviews from the last chapter as well!