InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Choices, Choices... ❯ The Best of You ( Chapter 13 )

Thanks!: Drakague, Daddyslilgirl01, hottyruby, luvtodraw, Cali2007, no1sangel on deviantART; LittleFoxDemon, Kitten the Vixen, knifethrower, girlhanyoulover, firegoddess372 on FanFiction; sisi on PaperDemon; mnemosyne, Animefreak, KogasWoman on InuyashaFanFiction. Thank you all so much for the great reviews. I appreciate it! :3

 

Replies @ MediaMiner:

Roberta - I'm so glad you were able to review! We are very alike, my friend. I'm glad you're enjoying - I hope to see more from you!

Michael22 - Thank you so much! I hope you continue to enjoy!

unistar - Haha! I think it's more like everyone wants to see a confrontation between Inu and Sess! But yes, everyone's right. There will be AT LEAST one more confrontation. ;) I'm glad you're enjoying Inuyasha's character.

whorl - Haha! Wouldn't that be peachy! Kagome would have all three at her leisure! Unfortunately, I don't think there would be much peace… You're right - there will only be ONE (the Highlander). But you won't know who just yet. ^_~

Tarzan from fanfic.net (lulz) - Thanks for coming all the way over to MM to review! I'm sure it was for the lemons, lol. Another for Inuyasha, eh? Glad you're enjoying!

Keetonie - ;o)

buzzk97 - I'm actually surprised that only one person asked me about it! I was dying to get to that part, even though originally, I wanted that to be how Kagome finds out he's not human. But it's been done before, so I just made it a close-call instead, lol. Glad to still have you on board, my friend. Happy reading!

MaraJade116 - My friend, you rock! I thought you were spamming me at first, but it was awesome that you reviewed each chapter individually. I don't even know where to begin!!! Have I ever mentioned how I LOVE when you guys quote me? LOL I'm glad you caught on about the doggy-style… not too many realized. Doesn't the thought of Inuyasha in nothing but boxers make you drool? *wipes mouth* You know, through all of this, I've tried to make the characters as relatable to canon as possible - and when you say the `usual Kouga-Inu fight', that makes me feel like I did well. Thanks. =) YAY FOR BOYSHORTS!!!! *is wearing a pair right now - oh, TMI, lol.* Thanks for reading here, my love!

foxtale3 - Thank you so much! I've been getting lots of compliments on how I've written Inuyasha - I'm so glad he's good to all of you! And of course, I wouldn't have negatives without positives, and vice-versa. Thanks for reading!

 

 

A/N: (***) = dream/flashback plzkthanx. BIG OL' Author's note - *laughs*Guys, I understand your wanting Inuyasha to tell Kagome he's a hanyou. Really, I do. But it's still to early. TRUST ME. When it happens, it'll be even better. :D

This chapter is dedicated to my dear friend, RighteousRed on deviantART. She won't read this, but I just want her to know how awesome she is. She's a great artist, has an awesome sense of humor, and is pervy(like me) as well as an all-around righteous friend. Plus, she's a SangoMiroku-lover, which makes her ok in my book. And since we see our favorite monk/pianist and demonslayer/bountyhunter in this one, this chapter is for her. ^_^

 

I'd like to tell you all a little something: I have a poll up in my journal on my page at dA (www.inuyashasesshomaru.deviantart.com) about the shippings in this story. For those that voted, I thank you! You can still vote if you like (you can only vote once!). The surprising results??? SessKag is the leader!!! (YAY!!!) InuKag is a close second, and KouKag is way behind. And some just wanted me to update, lol. And even more just wanted more lemons. Yay! People after my own heart! LMAO Just thought you might like to know what your peers are thinking. <3

 

“Has someone taken your faith?
It's real, the pain you feel. Your trust? You must confess… Is someone getting the best… the best… the best… the best… of you? Is someone getting the best… the best… the best… the best… of you?” - Best of You, Foo Fighters

 

Choices, Choices…

Chapter 13: The Best of You

 

Kagome stretched lazily in bed, yawning. Before long, she felt a rough hand sliding up the side of her torso. It felt so good that she snuggled up to the source. Really, she didn't remember coming to bed or inviting Inuyasha as well, but she didn't care. Fuck it. It's Sunday morning.

 

She smiled when she found that hand curling around her waist and pulling her closer. “Good morning, Inuyasha,” she said, stifling another yawn.

 

“Good morning, Kagome,” he replied. She could hear him smiling, despite the heavy tones from the sleep still embedded in his voice.

 

She chanced to look at her phone and reached but he grabbed her arm. Now she turned to look at him questioningly. His eyes seemed to be pleading with her.

 

“If you look, you'll wanna get up, and I don't wanna get up yet.”

 

Kagome thought of a snarky remark, but decided against it. She acquiesced, nodding and sliding back into place against him. Essentially, they were spooning, although they had yet to have sex. This brought a smile to Kagome's face, realizing that this was one of the first men that she had actually cuddled with her before sex. I'm a whore! She giggled to herself. Inuyasha heard her and jerked her gently.

 

“What's so funny?”

 

She tried to calm herself. “Nothing, Inuyasha. I was actually making fun of myself.”

 

He smirked. “Well, then. Why dont'cha tell me so I can do it too?”

 

She slapped him half-heartedly on his - apparently bare - shoulder and faked a scowl. “Just because I can make fun of myself doesn't mean you can too…”

 

Inuyasha paused, then wound his hand around so that it now rested on her stomach. “Well, then, maybe I'll just have to do something else to you…”

 

The huskiness in his voice was unmistakable. Her heart skipped a beat, but when it caught up, it pounded with renewed fervor. Suddenly she was very warm… She felt the bed shift as he leaned up on an elbow and pulled her hair away from her neck. He planted soft kisses on her shoulder and neck, and she closed her eyes, succumbing to the little waves of heat that danced across her skin at his touch. His hand travelled up the smooth expanse of her skin, higher, higher…

 

With a sigh, his hand gently brushed her nipple, already hardened with excitement. She mewled softly, and it gave him the encouragement to grasp her in his hand. She pushed into him, and he plucked at the peak , sending pleasurable pain coursing through her veins to the epicenter of it all, where she ached for him.

 

Suddenly, he grasped her about the waist and turned her so she faced him. Not giving her time to breathe, he kissed her urgently. She responded with as much need, and their limbs became entangled. She rubbed shamelessly against his erection, and he groaned as his eyes rolled in his head. She reached down between the sheets to grasp him, noticing that he only had his boxers on. When her hand enclosed around his member, he hissed, his hips jerking on their own. His kisses were deeper now, attempting to taste as much as he could in a little amount of time.

 

Inuyasha realized, moments later, that one of two things was going to happen: either she was going to keep going until he climaxed in her hand, or she was going to try to take this further. He knew option two was impossible right now - he couldn't lose himself to her; not yet. The first option - albeit a great one - was selfish, and he wouldn't want to make her do something if she was expecting more, which was something he wasn't able to give currently.

 

He grazed her nipple one last time before pulling away for them to breathe. They panted as Inuyasha stroked her hair, her face, her skin. Kagome looked into his eyes for a reason, but she found none. Inuyasha knew what she was looking for.

 

“You know I've been hurt?”

 

It sounded like a question, but Kagome could tell it was more of a statement. She nodded shyly anyways, wondering if they were really going to have `the talk'. He hesitated, but continued after a few seconds of silence and a sigh.

 

“Kagome, I loved a woman, once. She was graceful, beautiful, and kind…”

 

Kagome's heart clenched with jealousy, but kept it hidden.

 

“We were engaged to be married. But… there was…” His eyes shifted towards the foot of the bed in sadness, and Kagome suddenly felt like crying.

 

“She had told me that some guy at her work named Onigumo had a crush on her, and I began to suspect…” He trailed off, hearing the song `Miss Murder' blaring from a few feet away.

 

Kagome turned to look at her phone. She knew who it was, and looked across the room at her stereo, telling her it was only an hour until Sango would be coming over, hence the reason for her call.

 

“I-I'm sorry… I have to take it. It's Sango,” she said pleadingly.

 

He understood and nodded, but she made no move to leave the bed. She pressed the answer button and said hello, and Inuyasha could hear his best friends' fiancé say the same.

 

“So, I'm going to be there soon… I'm getting dressed now and then it'll take me about half an hour, depending on traffic,” Sango told her.

 

“That's fine. I'm actually not even out of bed yet,” Kagome replied.

 

“Oh, is Inuyasha there?” Sango asked playfully.

 

“Yeah, he's right…” Kagome had taken her seriously and now found her mistake. “I… I mean… It's not like…”

 

“Sango, stop harassing the girl,” Inuyasha shouted so his friend could hear him.

 

Kagome was silent as Sango laughed on the other end.

 

“Really, Kagome, I'm happy he's there. Anyhow, I wanted to know if I should bring any other clothes with me or if you have anything else in mind for today…”

 

The question brought Kagome out of her shell long enough to forget about what she had given away. “N-no… I mean, I figured we'd get lunch first, if that's okay with you. And maybe we could go out for dinner…”

 

“That sounds great,” Sango chimed. Then, since she knew Inuyasha was listening, “Why don't we invite the guys to dinner? Would you mind?”

 

Kagome perked up at the sound of a double date. She had only done it a few times, but it had been so much fun. It really was so hard to find another couple to go out with… “No! Not at all. That's a great idea, Sango. We could meet at my place. What do you think?”

 

“Great! I'll tell Miroku,” the bounty hunter said right before they said goodbye and hung up.

 

Inuyasha feigned ignorance as Kagome asked if he'd like to come to dinner and he agreed. He was disappointed when she got out of bed, singing to herself; she had forgotten what they had been talking about, and now he had lost his nerve. Would he ever be able to tell her?

 

She was fixing her hair in her bathroom mirror in just the tank top and her underwear when he walked in. He walked right over to the toilet, and started to pee. Kagome almost exploded in anger and embarrassment.

 

“Omigod! Inuyasha! I'm in here!”

 

“Yeah, I know,” he grumbled, “that's why I came. I couldn't wait any longer.”

 

“Why didn't you go in the other bathroom?” she asked, exasperated and averting her eyes.

 

He almost snickered, wondering if she realized she had been touching the very part she was now ignoring just a scant ten minutes ago.

 

“Kagome, is it that big of a deal? I mean, I'll go if you want…”

 

Kagome realized how childish she was being and took her hand down from her eyes. She still didn't look at him, though. “No, I'm sorry. I really like having you here, Inuyasha,” she told him honestly.

 

He could tell she wasn't lying and felt bad for reacting the way she had. He quickly finished and washed his hands quickly. When they were dry, he came up behind her, getting as close as he could.

 

“Good. Because I like being here, with you.” His arms wrapped around her and she smiled as she leaned back into him and closed her eyes.

 

They stood that way for a few minutes, just listening to each other breathe. Finally, Inuyasha pulled away, landing a kiss on her shoulder.

 

“You've gotta go, princess,” he told her with a wink.

 

She spun quickly, smirking at the new nickname. “Are you going to stay here?”

 

He smirked back. “Do you want me to?”

 

She laughed. “I don't mind if you do. Either way, you already have a key. I just wanted to know what you were going to be up to today,” she told him, turning back to her reflection and picking her hair up in a high, messy bun.

 

He seemed to think for a minute. “No, I think I'll head over to Miroku and Sango's. I wanna discuss some stuff with that pervert and I need to have some words with that kid.”

 

She realized he meant Kohaku and frowned. “He seemed like a nice kid… Are you sure he's really in trouble?”

 

It was Inuyasha's turn to scowl. “It's not that the kid is bad. He's a good kid. But he and Sango have been through a lot and he's trying to fit in, so he's fallen in with the wrong crowd. They talked him into stealing and graffiti already. What's next?” He waited for a response from Kagome, but she remained silent, thinking things through. “It's like they control him - like he can't think for himself when he's with them.”

 

“Well, maybe he just needs some extra attention and he'll stop being under their control. I'll see if I can get more info from Sango. Maybe my psychology classes will finally come in handy…”

 

“You mean other than when you try an' use `em on me?” he asked snarkily.

 

She tried to glare at him and deny it, but when she saw his teasing expression, she laughed it off. “Yep,” she said.

 

He swallowed harshly. “Hey, do you really use that on me?” he asked nervously.

 

Now she doubled over with laughter. “N-no, Inu… yasha… I've… never…”

 

He didn't look convinced. Scowling, he walked back into the bedroom, went through his duffel bag, and took out a white tee shirt and a pair of ripped jeans. Replacing the bandana with his favorite Yankees hat, he was fully dressed by the time Kagome emerged from the bathroom.

 

“Well, I guess I'll see you later,” she said, eyeing him.

 

He felt a little sadness coming from her, and he nearly smiled because of it. “Listen, when you women are done gabbing an' figure out what time you guys wanna meet up, give one of us a call. I'll see you then,” he said, grabbing her by the shoulders and planting a soft kiss on her lips before turning to leave.

He waved weakly, but he never turned to see it.

 

When she heard the door click shut, she realized she was holding her breath. Exhaling, she felt a pain in her chest. Frowning at herself, she wondered why. It hadn't been there before. She had been perfectly healthy a few minutes ago…

 

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Sango followed Kagome to the office, where Kagome left the keys to the zippy little Nissan on the secretary's desk with a note. She scribbled it quickly, since Sango had insisted they leave quickly, but without an explanation. She left the all-access card-key as well, and left. With one last look at the red convertible, Kagome sighed and climbed into Sango's Ford F350.

 

Sango had been uncomfortable since she realized they were pulling into the parking lot of the office where Inuyasha's brother worked. She didn't know much about Sesshoumaru, only that he was cold and practically had no heart. She had met him twice - once during her early years of dating Miroku and again at their engagement party. Both times, he had been haughty and not willing to speak to her. She wondered if it was because she was human…

 

She hadn't seen any other cars there, so she assumed the demon wasn't there, but she didn't want to be there if he showed up, so Sango yelled out of her window to hurry up, confusing the younger woman. Kagome nodded to show she understood, but Sango still worried. She tapped her nails on the wood grain of her steering wheel as she waited impatiently, wondering what could be taking the girl so long.

 

She let out a breath she hadn't known she was holding when she saw Kagome leaving with something that looked like a wistful look on her face. Was she sad to be leaving? She waited for Kagome to climb in and shut the door before she asked.

 

Pulling out of the driveway, she spoke. “Kagome?”

 

“Hm?” Kagome sounded, snapping her eyes to the other woman's'.

 

There was that look - she could still see it in her eyes. “Did you want to keep working there?”

 

Kagome frowned, wondering where she had gotten that idea. “Well… actually…”

 

Her pause made Sango wonder if what she was about to say would be the truth.

 

Unawares, Kagome continued. “It's weird. I mean, I do… but I don't…” She looked out her window, and Sango hoped she would elaborate. “I mean, there were so many perks! They gave me that car to use, a credit card for expenses, a laptop, and I could come and go as I please. Plus, there was my partner…”

 

She blushed, and Sango looked at her askance.

 

“Inuyasha told us you were seeing other people,” she said almost sadly.

 

Kagome nodded. “Well, you see, I had been in this loveless relationship for a long time…”

 

Kagome relayed her story about Hojou, her meeting with Kouga, and the meeting with Sesshoumaru. She left out Inuyasha, figuring she already knew those parts. She also missed the recognition in Sango's eyes as she described Sesshoumaru in detail - details the bounty hunter didn't want to hear.

 

In the end, however, Sango had a better understanding and actually agreed with Kagome about her decisions.

 

“I think you're doing the right thing. It's not like you're in a rush, after the whole Hojou thing. And besides, this Kouga character sounds a little clingy. And Inuyasha still has things to work out. I don't know about Sesshoumaru, though. He's…” Sango's eyes went wide and she stammered, attempting to cover her tracks. “I-I… I mean… He sounds like he can be a real pill sometimes. You should take your time deciding.” Gripping her steering wheel tightly, Sango hoped her new friend wouldn't have picked up on the fact that she sounded familiar with Sesshoumaru.

 

Kagome listened intently, and heard Sango's nervousness, but assumed she was merely unhappy about giving her a negative comment. She shrugged it off, knowing Sesshoumaru could be sweeter than most men she knew. But she had been right about both Kouga and Inuyasha, which gave her some hope that she was indeed doing the right thing.

 

Hearing Kagome's silence, Sango decided to change the subject. “So, we didn't get to meet your roommate. Will we get to see her?” she asked with a cheery smile. She noticed Kagome's sad expression and felt like smacking herself. She couldn't say anything right to the girl!

 

“Actually, she moved in with her boyfriend recently. I'm happy for her. I'll just miss her, is all,” Kagome told her, avoiding her eyes.

 

Bingo. Something I can help with! “Kagome… How are you going to pay the bills? Do you have someone else lined up to move in?”

 

Kagome looked up at the woman seated next to her, the first to ask and sound so concerned. “N-no. I don't have anyone else. But… I'll be fine. I mean, I'll have the money from the law firm, and I plan on getting another job. I just haven't had the time to look for another job yet. I'm going to try it on my own.”

 

Sango admired her, but felt there was something else. “What about just getting another roommate? Then you wouldn't have to do all that,” she told the younger girl.

 

Kagome smiled. “I know. But… I want to be able to feel comfortable with the person. I can't just let some random person live in my apartment. I knew Nikki for years, and it was great. I just don't see how I can top her,” she explained.

 

Sango took this in for consideration. “Well, how about Inuyasha?”

 

Kagome gasped in surprise. “W-what? N-n-no… I couldn't…”

 

It confirmed Sango's suspicions. Smirking, she nudged Kagome in the ribs. “First of all, Inuyasha is in a housing situation that he would rather not be in. Second of all, you already trust him. And third of all, he already has a key. That is, unless you don't want to have him there…” Sango teased.

 

Kagome looked taken aback. “No! I mean… I thought he was happy. He lives with his brother and niece, right? I know he really loves her…”

 

“He does, but he also hates having to put up with his brother. They get along so much better when they're not around each other. I secretly think that's part of the reason why Inuyasha doesn't like to leave your apartment. Well, that, and you.” She grinned at Kagome, who blushed.

 

Kagome pouted slightly, not really meaning it. “It's not fair that you know so much more about him. I have to strangle info out of him…”

 

“He has his reasons,” Sango told her, putting a hand on Kagome's shoulder.

 

Kagome nodded. “And yeah, I trust him, but… I dunno. I just don't want to ask him. I'd rather him just come and go as he pleases. You know? Like if he wants to stay over he can, but he can leave if he gets tired of me.”

 

And so Sango realized what this really boiled down to. She sighed heavily as she pulled the enormous truck into the garage of Sunset Place. She knew it was pointless to tell Kagome that she was smart, hot, and had a heart of gold. Only coming from someone she loved would she believe it. She hoped Inuyasha would realize it before it was too late.

 

Uncomfortable with the silence, Kagome spoke again. “So, where do you want to go for lunch?”

 

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Four hours later, the women were tiredly dragging themselves back to Sango's truck when Kagome's cell phone rang. Sango raised an eyebrow in question when she heard Britney Spears' `Toxic', wondering who it could be. She didn't have to wait long.

 

“It's Sesshoumaru,” Kagome told her, grinning as she answered.

 

Oh, Kagome. You don't know just how toxic he is… Sango tried not to listen to the conversation, but loaded her things into her back seat. She attempted to take Kagome's bags as well and realized - Kagome hadn't bought anything! Well, she bought a lunch, but even that had been light, now that she thought back. She remembered the young woman fawning over many things, and her clothes didn't look cheap, so why had she come shopping if she didn't want to buy anything? Scowling, Sango waited patiently for Kagome to hang up before climbing in.

 

Once they had both settled in their seats, Kagome smiled at her. “He told me to not make plans for next weekend - we have a three day weekend!”

 

Sango frowned. “The whole weekend?”

 

“Yep,” Kagome grinned. “But he won't tell me where we're going. He says I just need to pack some regular clothes and stuff. I wonder where we're going…”

 

Kagome drifted off into the world of daydreams, and Sango worried as she drove back to Kagome's dorm.

 

After a short drive, Sango was parking her huge truck and Kagome was still grinning ear-to-ear.

 

“Kagome?” Sango said before they had a chance to leave the vehicle, making Kagome turn to her quickly. “Can I ask you something?”

 

Kagome looked at her friend coyly. “That depends. But if you're going to ask me to make out with you, then the answer is yes…”

 

They both laughed and chattered, until Sango finally told her she was serious. “OK, ok… what is it?” Kagome said, wiping a tear from her eye. But Sango looked nervous, making her anxious in turn.

 

“Well… I noticed you didn't buy anything…”

 

Quick to defend herself, Kagome interjected. “I really didn't see anything I liked-”

 

“You saw plenty of things you liked!” Sango interrupted. “Like that pink Coach bag - I know you were eyeing it!”

 

Kagome shrugged. “Well, it was expensive.”

 

“Kagome, you also really wanted that sticker for your phone. It was only ten dollars,” the elder of the two reminded.

 

Now Kagome looked sheepish. “I thought it was a waste of money. Childish…”

 

“The denim miniskirt?”

 

“Wouldn't fit.”

 

“The grey leggings?”

 

“It's too hot.”

 

Sango finally exploded. “Damn it, Kagome! Are we going to be friends or not?”

 

“What does that have to do with leggings?” Kagome cried.

 

Sango sighed, exasperated. “Kagome, it's gonna get cooler soon. That's not why you didn't buy them. That's not why you didn't buy any of those things…”

 

Kagome scowled at he woman next to her. She had figured it out.

 

“Kagome, you're really having financial troubles, aren't you?” a concerned Sango asked.

 

Now it was Kagome's turn to sigh. “I don't want anyone to know. I really am looking for another job. I just… I don't want anyone to know, is all,” she explained, even though it was only a partial-truth.

 

Sango seemed to process the information before giving in. “Oh… all right. I won't say anything - for now. But really, Kagome, we're your friends, and we'll do whatever we can for you.” In reality, she was still suspicious.

 

Kagome nodded and grinned, but her thoughts were a bit darker. I'm sorry I can't tell you everything, Sango. This is my problem, and it's my fault. I just met all of you - I can't burden you with my problems. Reaching for the handle, the duelly's door popped open and Kagome jumped down. She waited for Sango to do the same, and the two walked to her apartment in silence.

 

Inside, Miroku and Inuyasha were watching the Miami Dolphins lose to the New York Giants.

 

“Man, they suck this year,” Miroku said, shaking his head.

 

“They suck every year,” Inuyasha replied with a smirk, goading his friend.

 

“Let's not go there, Inuyasha,” the pianist said, scowling.

 

Inuyasha shrugged it off. Then he perked, sitting up straight on the sofa. “They're here.”

 

“Ah, my darling has come back to me at last,” Miroku sighed.

 

The hanyou rolled his eyes and willed himself to hold still - the urge to swing the door wide open was tempting, but what would he say? He guessed? Sango would expect such a reaction, but surely Kagome would be suspicious.

 

Miroku smirked as he watched his friend bounce a leg in anticipation. He had never seen him be so excited to see someone - not even Kikyou.

 

“Say, Inuyasha?”

 

“Eh?” Inuyasha swung towards his band mate, unawares his friend had been studying him.

 

“Exactly when are you going to tell Kagome?”

 

Inuyasha scowled. “It's none of your damn business,” he growled. There was a pregnant pause in which Miroku rolled his eyes, crossed his arms, and leaned back on the couch, returning his attention to the football game. Finally… “Anyways, I tried. I started to tell her about Kikyou, but then Sango called,” he ground out.

 

Miroku managed a weak smile. “No, my friend. When are you going to tell her about you?”

 

Inuyasha growled once more. “Damn it, Miroku! She's never going to accept me!”

 

Now it was Miroku's turn to become angry. He glared darkly at his friend. “Inuyasha,” he began in a deep, low voice to let the hanyou know he meant business, “if you truly believed that about Kagome, you wouldn't be so interested in her. And if you believe that, you don't deserve her…”

 

Inuyasha's eyes snapped to Miroku's in surprise, but there was no time to argue. A moment later, the doorknob turned. The door was locked, however, and they heard Kagome fumbling with her keys. Inuyasha sprang to the door, opening it and shocking the girls.

 

“I-I heard you guys at the door,” he said, and Kagome smiled up at him, making him lose all thought process.

 

“Thanks,” she said, walking past.

 

“My love,” Miroku said, leaving the couch to acquire a hug from his intended.

 

He spread his arms wide, and eyed her catch, raising an eyebrow.

 

“Did you leave anything for the other shoppers?”

 

Sango smacked him hard on the arm, but embraced him nonetheless.

 

As Kagome came back to the living room, Inuyasha attempted to tease Kagome.

 

“So where's your stuff? Did you buy so much they have to deliver it on a flatbed?” He grinned at her, making her heart flutter.

 

She exchanged a look with Sango, then smiled demurely. “N-no… I actually didn't buy anything…”

 

Inuyasha thought she was kidding and smirked, but when he looked at both women - neither smiling - he took into account the exchanged glances, looking to Miroku for an answer. He shrugged, and Inuyasha turned his attention back to the girl.

 

“Anyways, where are we going?” Kagome asked. Sango and Miroku had picked the restaurant and refused to tell - apparently they made the reservation this morning.

 

The engaged couple looked into each others' eyes and smiled. Inuyasha huffed. Kagome looked at all three.

 

“Kagome, I implore you to get ready; we need to leave soon to make it to our reservation,” Miroku said to the younger woman.

 

Kagome looked puzzled. “But… didn't you say six-thirty? It's only four-thirty…”

 

“We have a bit of a drive ahead of us…”

 

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Four hours later, a slightly tipsy Kagome, followed by a drunken Miroku, a buzzed Sango, and an almost entirely sober Inuyasha left the restaurant, laughing and holding each other.

 

“Good thing I'm drivin'…” Inuyasha said as he led Kagome to the passenger side and opened the door, allowing Kagome in.

 

Miroku opened the driver side for his fiancé and crawled in after her into the back seat. “Dude, it's too bad alcohol doesn't affect you like it does us…” he laughed.

 

Kagome giggled as Inuyasha glared daggers at his friend. “What does he mean, Inuyasha?”

 

“You know, us-”

 

“Shut UP, Miroku,” Inuyasha spat.

 

Sango, less inebriated than her love, whispered in his ear. Inuyasha heard her reminding him that Kagome did not know of Inuyasha's secret… yet. Miroku giggled in a very unmanly fashion and winked at his wife-to-be.

 

Inuyasha rolled his eyes and began the drive home.

 

Kagome looked over at Inuyasha during the long ride and tugged on the sleeve of his tee shirt. He looked over to find her gazing up at him with lust-filled eyes.

 

“Stay…” she whispered so quietly that had he not been hanyou, he would have asked her to repeat himself.

 

Looking in the rearview mirror, he found his friends making out in the back of his car, and he crinkled his nose in disgust. “Hey - watch the leather back there,” he directed to the couple. Then he turned to the woman who was still looking to him for an answer. “Okay.”

 

Once Inuyasha got Miroku into the passenger seat of Sango's truck, they all said goodbye, with promises to get together again soon. As the gigantic black truck drove off, Kagome wavered slightly, garnering Inuyasha's attention. He grabbed her shoulder, steadying her. She giggled as she looked up at him, and he smirked.

 

“All right, you. Time for bed,” he told her, pulling her onto his back and carrying her into the elevator and then to her apartment.

 

She clung to him as he unlocked the door with the key he had and locked the door when they were inside. She flung her black purse unto the couch as he passed by; once in the bedroom, he swung her off onto the bed. She snickered when she bounced.

 

He laughed as well, hearing her infectious giggle. But his chuckle died in his throat as he watched her kneel on her bed and pull her shirt over her head. Next, she wriggled her jeans down her hips, moving awkwardly to pull them off her legs. Soon, she had only her underwear and bra on.

 

His jaw dropped open slightly and he felt his pulse quicken as she reached up to unhook her bra. When she had, Inuyasha snapped out of it. Rushing forward, he reached her just in time for her bra straps to fall down, allowing the garment to expose her. But Inuyasha had already grasped her shoulders and was almost pressed up against her.

 

He forced himself to look into her eyes, which were hooded - with passion or with liquor, he wasn't sure. She smiled coyly at him, and his heart skipped a beat.

 

“Inuyasha…”

 

His name, whispered from her lips, made him ache for her instantly, and before he could stop himself, he was pushing her down and ravaging her lips. She moaned into his mouth, and he ground his hips into her, weeks of tension attempting to release. She moaned deliciously, and it made him even harder. Their tongues danced around each other, and soon Inuyasha felt his youki began to flare. Kagome released his mouth only to suckle his neck, whimpering his name.

 

That was it. His eyes flashed red temporarily as he brought his mouth to her nipple and sucked. She gasped and threaded her fingers into his hair, scratching at his scalp. He growled low and long, and it had the effect of making Kagome arch her back and grind into him harder. Emotion flickered across his face - did she hear? Was she disgusted? Was she turned on by it?

 

But Kagome only knew one thing - lust. She wanted something, and nothing was going to stop her. She clawed at his chest, trying to get his shirt off, and he groaned in pleasure. She managed to pull it sloppily over his head, and he checked his head quickly to make sure his hat was still in place. She grasped his strong biceps and tightened her grip, allowing her nails to dig in slightly, making him want her even more than he thought possible.

 

Kagome was tossing her head from side to side in frustration. Why wouldn't he advance? She felt him switch breasts, and the feeling from the neglected nipple now receiving attention was too much - she pushed up into his erection. Then, she felt something unexpected. He was still laving her impossibly hard peak with attention when she felt a sharp scrape; she cried out his name.

 

This brought Inuyasha back to the planet he was currently inhabiting. His eyes snapped open, and he realized what was happening. He was losing himself to his youki, and his claws and fangs had grown. How could he let this happen? He assumed his hair had changed as well, but that was easy to change. Panting, he drew back, only to meet Kagome's confused daze. He pulled away, and she grabbed for him, meeting only air.

 

He saw the hurt look in her eyes, but he couldn't - wouldn't - continue. She began to cry, and this alarmed him, making him sit down on the edge of the bed.

 

“W-w-what is it? What am I doing wrong?” she wailed.

 

Inuyasha squeezed his eyes shut, wondering why he had to be such an ass to the one person he cared most about. “It's not you, Kagome,” he pleaded.

 

This didn't stop the tears, however. “Then what is it? Is it because of Kikyou?”

 

Hearing the name of his first love on the lips of the woman he cared for now made him send her a warning glance. She winced but stood her ground.

 

He felt deflated. “No, Kagome. It's… you don't know me! I ain't who you think. I'm no good. Whadd'ya want with me anyways?”

 

Now she cried harder. But there was no response, and he felt bad for raising his voice to her. Sighing, he reached over and pulled her to him, and she buried her face in his bare chest. He attempted to soothe her, stroking her hair, but it took a while before she could calm down. When her breathing slowed, he knew she was too tired to argue. He pulled away, but she wouldn't look at him.

 

He used his fingers to pull her chin up, and their eyes met. “I'm sorry,” he told her.

 

She didn't reply, but he felt the smallest of nods.

 

“Come,” he said.

 

He lay down, pulling her with him. She complied easily, and he knew that the alcohol was too much for her. It had tired her, and now she would fall asleep within a few seconds. He kept stroking her hair, and sure enough, after she snuggled into him, he heard her pulse slow and felt her shallow, slow breathing; she was already in a deep sleep.

 

Carefully, he crept out of the bed, walked over to his bag, and retrieved his tools. After several minutes in the bathroom, Inuyasha emerged looking like a normal human. He placed the tools back, removed his pants, and slipped back into bed holding the woman tightly to him as he let himself drift off.

 

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He was awake already when she raised her head, looking around groggily. He had been watching her for at least the last thirty minutes.

 

“Ohayou,” he said when she turned to look at him.

 

He grinned as she yawned. “Ohayou,” she replied.

 

“How are ya feelin'?” he asked with a smirk.

 

“Tired,” she answered with another yawn, stretching.

 

He looked baffled. “That's all?”

 

Kagome smirked. “What were you expecting?”

 

“Well, you had a lot to drink last night…”

 

“I'm a big girl, Inuyasha. I can handle myself,” she said triumphantly.

 

“But…”

 

“I don't get hangovers,” she said, answering his question before he asked. It wasn't the first time she had been asked. “It's like I'm… immune or something…”

 

He scoffed, but she started to get up. When she was standing, she felt chilly and looked down to find that she was practically naked, save for a tiny pair of boyshorts. Gasping, she ran to the bathroom. Once inside, she interrogated the man currently lying just as clothingly-challenged in her bed.

 

“Um… Did we… I mean, was I… That is, were you…”

 

Inuyasha was amused.

 

“No, we didn't,” he called out.

 

“Oh, thank the kami's,” he heard her say softly.

 

He lifted an eyebrow at her, although she couldn't see it. He heard the toilet flush.

 

“I mean… not thank the kami's, but… Thank the kami's!”

 

He rolled his eyes at her babbling.

 

“Well, why… Just, refresh my memory… Why didn't we…?” she said, emerging from the bathroom with a robe on.

 

“Keh. Call me ol' fashioned, but I'm not gonna take advantage of a girl that's barely conscious,” he said, smirking.

 

Kagome took her face in her hands, threading her fingers into the tangled tresses. “Oh my… Barely conscious? That must have been attractive…” She rolled into her doorframe, covering her eyes in embarrassment.

 

Inuyasha chuckled. Then he cleared his throat, garnering her attention. “Shouldn't you… ah… be getting ready? For class?”

 

Kagome started visibly and ran into her room to look at the clock on her stereo. She still had enough time to take a quick shower and get ready… He was surprised when she ran over to him and gave him a quick peck on the cheek. And then she was gone, and he heard the spray of the shower.

 

Resigning himself, Inuyasha ducked under the covers and allowed himself to fall asleep.

 

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The rest of the week went by quickly - there was a test in one of her classes, and studying for it took most of her time. Kouga took her to get coffee, and they talked, but nothing more. Sesshoumaru called her on Thursday to confirm their date, and to tell her that a driver would be picking her up promptly at five o'clock in front of her building - and that she must have a passport.

 

She attempted to get information out of him, but he would not give; he was relentlessly secretive. As much as she wanted to know, however, the thrill of it got to her, and whenever she could find the time, she daydreamed about the trip. However, now that she knew it would require a passport, her imagination was unlimited. Right after his phone call, she called Sango to gush. Later on that night, Sango called Inuyasha to tell him that his brother was splurging on a weekend trip with Kagome.

 

Inuyasha had yelled and complained, but in the end, he hadn't talked to Kagome about anything - he couldn't tell her that Sesshoumaru was his brother yet. Sango had told him that Kagome hadn't said anything about Sesshoumaru being a demon, so he was positive she didn't know. But Sango pointed out that she might just not want to `out' him. Inuyasha scoffed, however, and kept cursing his brother for `playing dirty'. Sango pointed out that he had just as much money as Sesshoumaru - he just spent it differently. However, the fact that Inuyasha was banned from travel in several countries for bad behavior did nothing for his reputation.

 

He was surprised when Kagome called shortly after, to tell him that she would be gone until Monday night, and that he could use her apartment if he needed. But he had his own plans, and he told her so. She sounded disappointed, but it only made him angry, since he knew what she would be doing and who she would be doing it with. He told her that he was working on a little `project' of his and he would be out of town. She wished him luck, but he only told her he would see her when she got back. She agreed to call him Monday night, and they bid each other a good night.

 

After she hung up, Kagome set herself to packing. In the middle of it, her phone rang to the tune of `Mother', by Danzig. Rushing to her cell phone, Kagome had a short conversation with her mother, telling her only that she was going out of town with a friend. If her mother suspected anything, she didn't bring it up.

 

When the call ended, Kagome started to pack again. Unfortunately, the call reminded her that she had problems, and the weekend was only helping her to escape them temporarily. Now she was sluggish with both fatigue and depression.

 

When she had packed all the clothes she wanted and began to take other necessities, such as makeup and shampoo, Kagome drove herself crazy looking for a particular lip gloss. After searching for ten straight minutes, Kagome almost gave up before remembering that she had applied it after eating at the Polynesian restaurant she had gone to with Sango, Miroku, and Inuyasha. What purse had she been using?

 

What purse did she usually use? She searched her room thoroughly before remembering seeing it in the living room somewhere. Yes - she had been watching TV and tried to sink down when she had to move the bag from under her. Running to the sofa, she found the small, black purse and sorted through it before finding the tube. Wondering if there was anything else she needed, Kagome continued to look through the bag.

 

She saw a business card and meant to throw it out when she looked at it briefly - where had she gotten it? It was the man from the strip club… With a sudden realization, Kagome's eyes went wide. She recalled the man offering her a job, no matter what. She shook her head at first, attempting to rid herself of the idea. But it nagged at her, and she found herself staring at the man's number.

 

Well, maybe I can get a job waitressing? I'm sure the waitresses make good money there… Biting her lip, Kagome went to her room, picked up the phone, and dialed.

 

It was a Thursday night, and still relatively early, so the man had been in his office. As soon as she had jogged his memory, he told her to come in, but she told him she would be out of town until Tuesday. So he set up an appointment with her to come in for an interview on Tuesday afternoon, and she agreed. Luckily, it wasn't far from her apartment; she could walk to the club.

 

Kagome smiled at herself. She was proud for taking the initiative and having the courage to work there. Placing the card next to her on the bed as she thought, Kagome tried to refocus on the trip at hand. Soon, she was satisfied and placed the bag next to her front door. Returning to her room, she figured she would get some extra sleep and stripped naked, snuggling down into the covers.

 

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After the last class ended, Kagome ran home. She jumped into the shower, put on a tee shirt and tiny, khaki shorts, and a pair of converse. Satisfied, she gathered her hair in a bun and went through every room of her house, nervous an impatient. She found herself unplugging appliances, like the toaster and microwave. Finally, the doorbell rang and she flung it open to find a man dressed in a suit, wearing a funny hat.

 

“Ma'am,” he said, tipping the hat to her.

 

Kagome gawked, and he smiled gently.

 

“May I take your bags?”

 

Shocked into movement, Kagome pointed at the duffel bag at her feet. He picked it up.

 

“What else?” he asked, clearly expecting more from any girl his master was dating.

 

“No more - it's just three days,” she said, smiling at him.

 

He smiled back and nodded, motioning for her to follow him.

 

With a wistful look, Kagome took one last glance around her apartment and grabbed her school bag - at some point, she had to study.

 

She locked the door, and didn't look back.

 

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After approximately forty-five minutes, Kagome arrived - still shocked from sitting in a limo - at a small airport. She asked the driver why they hadn't gone to Miami International Airport, but he simply shrugged. Then her door opened, and when she looked out, she saw a small, private jet, the stairs down and ready to load passengers. She gasped - they were going to be flying on a private jet?

 

A hand appeared, and she took it, allowing the man to pull her out of the back seat.

 

“Wow,” she said, taking in everything that had happened in the past hour, including the Cristal inside the limousine she had been urged to drink - at no additional cost, the driver had chuckled.

 

“Indeed,” she heard.

 

She found that it had been Sesshoumaru that had helped her out of the limo, and he still held her hand. At a loss for words, Kagome stared at him, the jet, the limo, and back to him.

 

“This is gonna be one hell of a vacation,” she said, smirking at him.

 

=================End Chapter================

 

PitaBread: Sorry for ending it like that! I wanted to get it out quicker, and it was either end it here, or in the middle of the vacation… -.-

 

Inuyasha: Keh. Shoulda ripped that whole part out.

 

Sesshoumaru: Perhaps I should rip your tongue out.

 

IY: *brandishing Tessaiga* You want some of this?

 

Sess: Indeed.

 

Kagome: OK, you two. That's enough.

 

Sango: Next chapter, we get to see where Sesshoumaru is taking Kagome-chan.

 

Kagome: Hey!

 

Miroku: And we get to see what Inuyasha is up to while Kagome is gone… Is he seeing anyone else?

 

Sango: I think you should accuse yourself before you accuse Inuyasha…

 

IY: Yeah! What she said! *thwacks Miroku over the head*

 

Miroku: Ouch!

 

Kagome: Inuyasha…

 

IY: *groans*

 

Kagome: Osuwari!

 

IY: *slams into ground face-first*

 

Sesshoumaru: Hn. Until next time.