InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Choices of the Heart. ❯ Sesshomaru in the future ( Chapter 13 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
Disclaimer: This story is my creation although the characters are not. I did not, create, nor do I own any characters of InuYasha, they belong to Rumiko Takahashi, I just happen to love them. This story is based, but not restricted by the show/movies. For entertainment purposes only.
Notes- As you might have noticed, I haven’t been writing much about Inuyasha as of yet, but he will reappear soon. I’m also going to be bringing Sango, Miruko and Shippo into the next few chapters, and they’ll probably be in the remainder of the story. There will also be a fight, although I won’t say between who, I’m going to leave it as a surprise. This is probably going to be the last chapter with Sesshomaru and Kagome alone, so be prepared for something to happen between the two.
Chapter 13-
Sesshomaru in the future
Kagome had been sleeping for two hours, but her sleep was far from peaceful. She had tossed and turned, cried out for Inuyasha and practically burst into tears during her nap. Sesshomaru had returned to her room to watch her soon after he had gorged himself on the last slice of pizza and a bowl of chocolate ice cream. Much to his surprise, he had enjoyed the ice cream just as much as the pizza, although to him pizza would always be his preference.
He now stood against the wall in Kagome’s room, pondering if he should wake the miko from the dream which was causing her so much discomfort, or wait for her to wake up on her own.
“Inuyasha!!” It was the third time she had called out his name, but this time it sounded more desperate then the others. Opting to move from his position, he sat down gently on the edge of the bed, placing a gentle hand on Kagome’s cheek. “Shhhh....” He hushed her quietly, the ball of his thumb grazing over her cheek.
Kagome’s eyes fluttered open, meeting a pair of dark amber ones. Briefly she thought that they were Inuyasha’s, at least until she noticed the crescent moon that lay above the center of them. “Sess.....Sesshomaru?” Surprised to find the Lord of the Western lands hovering over her, Kagome sat up with a start. “I’m sorry, did I bother you.”
Despite the fact that his hand still rested on her cheek, she fussed with her hair and clothes. She stopped as her hand brushed against the back of his, just as she brushing her hair away from her cheek. Her eyes widened in surprise, but the surprise was quite pleasant. Once their hands had touched, she fully expected him to pull his away. When he didn’t she found herself leaning into it.
“Your dreams trouble you?” His voice was quiet, almost soft. His eyes were still staring into her own with no hint of pulling away anytime soon.
“My...dreams?” Lifting a brow, she frowned in thought. She couldn’t remember having a dream, and if she had, she didn’t know what it was about. What was he talking about? “I didn’t have a dream. Why do you ask?”
“You cried in your sleep. You were calling for the half breed.” He went silent for a moment, hesitating on the question he wanted to ask her. He mauled it over in his mind for several minutes before finally asking. “What has happened between you and the half breed? Has he caused you harm?”
“Harm? No, he has never harmed me.” With a soft sigh she pushed the blankets off of herself and slipped off the bed. Moving to the window, she leaned her forehead against the cool glass, staring out at the tree...their tree. She flinched outwardly at the twinge of pain that struck her heart. Inuyasha was gone for her, he would forever be her friend, but she would no longer allow herself to fall any deeper under his spell. The dreams that she had once had of the two of them living their lives out together were gone. Now she when she thought of her future, all she could see was a cold lonely world where Inuyasha was with Kagome, and she was alone.
“Miko, if he has never harmed you, then why do you cry when you speak his name?”
Turning back, she offered Sesshomaru a small sad smile. “He’s never harmed me physically. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t hurt to know he’s picked someone else to be with.”
With a creased brow, Sesshomaru tried to understand what the miko was saying. “He picked someone else? This Sesshomaru wasn’t aware that the half breed had anyone else to choose. Explain.”
“Kikyo....you don’t know her?”
“Kikyo? The undead miko?” Sesshomaru could have laughed hysterically at his brother’s stupidity. He had the choice of the beautiful miko who stood before him, one who seemed to be genuinely as pure and sweet as she appeared to be, or the walking dead miko who had always struck him...well as cold and bitter. “My brother tends to mate with a walking corpse? Tell me, have any of the demons you encountered actually knocked what little of a brain he had out? There is no other reason This Sesshomaru can find for such a stupid decision.”
Kagome laughed, but quickly covered her mouth. “That’s funny, but I shouldn’t laugh. Kikyo was his first love, and if that’s what he wants to make him happy, then I guess I’ll just have to deal with it.” Pressing her lips into a thin line, she suffocated a sigh that was threatening to escape her lips. The corners of her lips twitched downwards, her brow following suit as it creased into a frown. “Whatever makes him happy. If it meant me staying here and never going back to your time for the rest of my life, then that’s how it will be.”
“No. This Sesshomaru will not allow you to wallow in your room. You will return back with me and come to stay in my palace. Rin will help you get over the hanyou.” Sesshomaru gave a confirming nod, but did not add that he too would help as well. He was being uncharacteristically kind, but he wouldn’t completely lower his guard down.
“Sesshomaru....it’s kind of you to offer, but I think I should stay here and try to finish out the last few weeks of school. Maybe if I devote all my time to my work, I might be able to pass with higher marks then I have.”
“That was not an offer miko. I’ve already gained permission for your mother, so you have no other choice then to come with me. If need be, this Sesshomaru will drag you back and lock you away.” His voice was stern, but not overtly cruel. His intentions, although they weren’t quite clear to Kagome, seemed to be to offer her a chance to get away.
Locking eyes back with Sesshomaru, she sighed quietly. Why did she get the feeling that he wasn’t going to give in and let her be? Did he really want her to teach Rin that much?
“If this is about me teaching Rin, I can come back when school is out. Then I will have plenty of time without having to return home.”
Shaking his head, he strode over towards Kagome, leaning down over her. Pulling in a deep breath he inhaled deeply, the scent of honeysuckles, her scent, filled his nostrils. He felt something stir in him, her scent overpowering his sense and reason. Lowering his head down he buried his nose in her hair, the lids of his eyes lowering slowly as her scent began to take control of him.
“Kagome.....I have an offer for you. You may take some time to think it over if you wish, but I still insist that you return with me back to my time.” He pulled away from her, trying to resist the allure of her scent which was clearly intoxicating him to where he was too distracted to think clearly. Even as he pulled back, he began to miss her smell, almost craving it. “We will discuss the offer when you agree to return with me and stay at the palace.”
Kagome didn’t miss the mischievous glint in his eye. He was baiting her, hoping that her curiosity would give him the advantage. Fortunately for him the trick worked. “If I promise to go back and stay with you, will you tell me this offer as soon as we get to the other side of the well?”
“The very moment our feet are on solid ground.” He responded, nodding his head in agreement.
With a grin, Kagome reached her hand out for him to shake. “Well then Lord Sesshomaru, I believe we have a deal.”
Looking down at the offered hand, then back up to Kagome, a silver brow arched inquisitively. Taking the delicate appendage into his own, he pulled her closer to him. His good arm encircled around the girl’s waist, forcing a small gasp of surprise from her. Lifting her head up to peer into his eyes, Kagome swallowed back the lump of nervousness that had risen in her throat.
“In my time, we seal deals with a kiss.” He whispered breathlessly over her lips, his face hovering barely inches from hers. The tips of their noses touched briefly, and for a moment she thought that Sesshomaru was joking. She was waiting for him to pull away and begin sprouting out insults about how she offended him by her touch.
“Sess...” She didn’t manage to finish. Just as she spoke, Sesshomaru brushed his lips against her. Pulling in a breath, she froze in place, unable to pull away even though she didn’t really want to. The feel of his lips against hers caused an alarming flutter in her stomach and a pleasant shiver to run down her spine. Sensing the fragile movement in the miko, Sesshomaru pressed his lips against hers a bit more firmly, but still gentle enough to send each and every nerve in her body into a frenzy.
Kagome closed her eyes slowly, her body snuggling in against Sesshomaru’s. Her hands moved up to his shoulders, settling against his finely toned biceps. She was just getting used to the feel of his lips when she felt them separate just enough for the tip of his tongue to brush against her lower lip. Another small gasp escaped her, followed almost immediately by a small moan. Unsure what she was doing, Kagome allowed Sesshomaru’s tongue to manipulate her lips enough to slip between them, the tip of his tongue teasingly brushing against her’s before retreating back into his own mouth.
Kagome’s grip on his arms tightened as she felt her knees growing weak. She felt as if she was swimming away in a sea of silk. Every inch of her from the tips of her toes to the roots of her hair tingling in anticipation. Sure, she had been kissed before, but this...this wasn’t just an ordinary kiss. Behind it she could feel power and strength of Sesshomaru, it was as if he was trying to engulf her with his presence. His kiss was soft and gentle, but at the same time wild. She could feel herself being tempted and teased, all the while feeling safe and secure. He left her completely breathless as he broke away to stare into her face.
“The deal has been sealed. Gather your things, we shall be leaving after the sun sets.” His arms tightened around her before releasing her form and exiting the room.
Kagome remained frozen. Her head was still tilted upwards, her eyes partially opened and her lips slightly parted. Had she been imagining things? Had Sesshomaru, the same Sesshomaru who had tried to kill her, the one who despised humans, just kissed her? Surely she must be dreaming, that couldn’t have happened.
With flushed cheeks Kagome slipped out of her room, dragging the yellow monstrosity of a bag along with her. She couldn’t force the dreamy eyed look from her face, still under the spell of Sesshomaru’s kiss. She suddenly understood what all the girls in school were talking about in the restroom, when they would sneak out of class and whisper about these things with their friends.
She couldn’t shake the trance that she was under, if felt as if she was walking in the clouds and all the world around her suddenly seemed brighter. Her reverie finally snapped as she entered the kitchen, there her mother, grandfather and Sesshomaru all stood staring at her like she was an alien.
“What? Geez, you people act like I’ve got something on my face.” She grinned outwardly, trying to hide her embarrassment at being caught in such a state.
Her mother broke the awkward silence with a chuckle. “Of course there’s nothing on your face dear, we were just wondering what was taking so long for you to come down.” Nodding in the direction of the counter, which was covered with her first aid kit, tons of both cups and packs of ramen, a few bags of cookies and a box of candy bars. Along with the supplies was a rather large styrofoam cooler. Quirking a brow, Kagome leaned over and pulled the top of the cooler off. Staring back at here were two frozen pizzas and a pint of chocolate ice cream covered in ice.
Laughing, Kagome looked up to catch Sesshomaru’s solemn face. “What? This Sesshomaru asked Mrs. Higurashi if she could tell me the secrets to pizza. Instead she was generous enough to give me two, along with dessert.”
Rolling her eyes, Kagome couldn’t help but laugh. “I think I’ve created a monster.”
Sesshomaru smirked at the comment, stiffening his spine so he stood in his usual regal manner. “This Sesshomaru is no monster. All nobility enjoy delectable food, this Sesshomaru is no different.”
Stuffing the rest of her supplies into her bag, she swung it over her shoulders, grabbing a hold on the counter to steady herself. Her gaze moved to Sesshomaru, who looked almost reluctant to leave from what she could see by his stiff manner and the tiniest glint of disappointment in his eyes. Was he enjoying this era, or was he enjoying the time alone with her? Her eyes blinked in confusion, wondering where that second thought had come from. Yeah right, she thought, like he’s really enjoying time alone with a human.
Sesshomaru spoke, almost as if he was reading her mind. “Perhaps the miko would like to spend a few more days with her family? I do not know how long it will be until we are able to return to this time.” He spoke with his usual regal air, but there was something hidden behind his tone, Kagome just couldn’t place it.
Sesshomaru was anxious to return, but he had forgotten on small thing. He would have to make his intentions known to the miko once they were on the other side of the well, and he wasn’t sure if she would readily accept his proposition. A few more days alone couldn’t hurt, unless of course he was to go on kissing her as he just had. Sesshomaru blamed his actions completely on Kagome. If her scent hadn’t distracted him so, he would have never been so weak to stoop to such a romantic gesture.
He allowed his mind to think about the kiss for a moment. He had never suspected that she was so innocent. After all, her clothing was as close to being naked as could get. Thinking of all the leg that she often showed caused a stir somewhere in his stomach. Shifting uncomfortably, he was suddenly aware that both the Higurashi females were staring at him, both wearing the same odd expression.
“Can this Sesshomaru be of assistance?” He growled with mild irritation at the two women, both of whom chuckled at his outburst. The demon Lord tried to look angry, but both women looked positively adorable with their arms around each other’s shoulders and their bright smiles and shining eyes. “Foolish humans.” He muttered under his breath.
“Well Lord Sesshomaru, since it seems you’ll be staying for dinner, would you like the honor of choosing what we will be eating?” The older woman spoke, her voice brimming with amusement.
It suddenly struck Sesshomaru why he held so much animosity towards humans. He himself had always been so serious. Even as a pup he had taken his responsibilities seriously, spending hours in the great hall of the palace listening to his father’s advisors. Instead of running off and playing as other pups, even with his status had, Sesshomaru studied and trained. Once he had reached adulthood he continued. Instead of running off with every willing female, or trying to find a mate as others had, Sesshomaru buried himself behind his work, forcing away any attempts of female companionship that his advisors and even his father tried to impose on him.
Humans however were free to do as they choose. They played happily, regardless of their status or responsibilities. They allowed themselves to be happy, to mate freely without worry or hesitation that they had made the wrong choice. Their smiles seemed to be permanently etched onto their faces. Even if they weren’t happy, it was easy enough for them to get amusement in even the simplest things. Although he would never admit it, he was slightly jealous. While he remained so stoic and uptight, around him the rest of the world seemed to make it painfully known that he would never be as light hearted and carefree as the rest.
His thoughts had consumed him so that he didn’t notice that the family had left him alone in the room. Kagome had retreated bak to her own room, her mother off to return the pizza and ice cream she had packed for them back in the freezer, and the man was off taking care of all the relics.
He was about to move when a gentle voice called to him. “Lord Sesshomaru, would you mind coming in here please?”
Following the sound towards Mrs. Higurashi, he was amazed to find the woman beaming another smile in his direction. Did she not have any other expressions then a smile? But what had he expected from the mother of the eternal ray of sunshine that was now upstairs resting on her bed.
“Mrs. Higurashi?”
Mrs. Higurashi looked up at the demon lord, unable to contain the mischievous grin that was growing larger by the second. Without a warning, she was thrusting a bowl and spoon into his hands.
Sesshomaru stared blankly at the contents of the bowl. In it was something he recognized as chocolate ice cream, but the stuff on top was a mystery. There was fluffy white stuff with a red thing on the top. Also onto of the ice cream was some sort of dark brown liquid. He sniffed the bowl cautiously, his senses were overwhelmed with some of the sweetest scents he had ever encountered. “What is this?” He asked unable to mask the curiosity in his voice.
“Try it.” Was all the woman would respond with. She turned her back on the demon and went about straightening out her kitchen.
Refusing to move from his spot in case the retched woman was giving him something that would make him ill, Sesshomaru dipped the spoon into the fluffy white stuff and took a small taste.
Mrs. Higurashi was unable to keep her eyes away, the curiosity of how the demon lord would respond to his sundae had gotten the better of her. Turning away from the sink full of dishes, she had to stifle her laughter as she caught the expression on Sesshomaru’s face. He looked like a man who had died and gone to heaven.
His eyes were as wide as saucers, and he wasn’t not even aware that he had whipped cream smeared around his lips. He was too involved in savoring the delicate cream that had melted in his mouth and flooded his taste buds with the sweetest sensation he had ever experienced. He was refraining from shoveling the whole bowl into his mouth in one bite, instead he took small spoonfuls of the delightful dessert, allowing it to melt in his mouth for as long as he could. No wonder Kagome was always so cheerful. The dessert could make even he himself, the might Lord of the Western Lands almost giddy in it’s deliciousness.
After a moment he reached up and plucked the small red thing that had been on top of the whipped cream and placed it in his mouth, almost expecting it to melt away as everything else had. He soon realized that this thing was different then the rest of the bowls contents. After pushing it around with his tongue for a moment, he dared a small bite into it. His eyes widened even more as a gush of sweet juice exploded into his mouth.
He finished off the cherry, in painfully slow chews and looked back into the bowl. One thing left to sample. Dipping his spoon back into the bowl, he scooped up a small portion of the dark brown liquid. Sliding the spoon into his mouth, he was pleasantly surprised at the slight warmth of the chocolate sauce. It tasted similar to the chocolate ice cream, but the texture was smoother and the taste was just a bit richer.
It took him at least ten minutes to fully devour his sundae. Mrs. Higurashi couldn’t help but laugh at the demon as she watched. She had to admit she was rather pleased with the side effect the sundae seemed to have on him. Instead of the air around him being so thick with tension, it began to grow lighter as the taiyoukai loosened up.
Just as Sesshomaru finished up his dessert, Kagome walked into the kitchen. She blinked, believing her eyes were deceiving her. Was Sesshomaru really standing in her kitchen, completely speechless...with a smile on his face? Stepping up to the demon, she stood before him with her hands on her hips. “Sesshomaru? Are you okay?”
“I am wonderful.” Sesshomaru replied in a light voice.
“Wonderful?” Arching a brow, she looked to her mother. “What did you do, drug him?”
Laughing, Mrs. Higurashi stepped over to take the bowl from Sesshomaru. “Of course not. But I do feel it’ll be a good idea for you to get him out of the house soon...I fear he’ll be having a sugar rush any minute.”
Glancing into the bowl, Kagome noticed the small pool of melted ice cream at the bottom. A bowl of ice cream? Is that all it took to make the high and mighty lord act almost normal?
Shaking her head she let out a small chuckle. “Come on Lord Sesshomaru, let’s get you out of here before you start destroying the house.”
She was surprised when Sesshomaru let her take his arm and pull him out of the house. Once outside she dropped his arm and continued to watch in fascination at the taiyoukai’s antics.
He stood perfectly still for a moment, but then quickly snatched Kagome around the waist and spun her around. “Miko, I would give you my lands if you will promise me that you will bring me some more of that....that....whatever it was your mother just gave me.”
Who’d have thought that Lord Sesshomaru was a junk food junkie, she giggled quietly at the thought.
“Sesshomaru, I’ll promise to give you as much ice cream if you promise that you’ll lighten up a bit. Deal?” Her body jerked in a flinch, remembering what happened the last time they had made a deal.
“Deal?” A grin spread over Sesshomaru’s lips as he leaned down over the anxious miko. Instead of a long drawn out kiss he had given her earlier, he lightly brushed his lips against hers then pushed her away gently. “The deal is sealed.”
Kagome blinked at the small kiss she was given, mildly disappointed that it wasn’t as long as the one before. What am I thinking, I don’t want to kiss him. Especially not when he’s acting like some sort of sugar fiend. She thought to herself as she watched Sesshomaru race around the grounds of the Shrine, howling like a loon.
I know chocolate is suppose to give you the feeling of being in love, but this is just ridiculous! But then again, I’d rather see him acting like a nut then being an uptight jerk, Kagome mused as she continued to keep her eyes on Sesshomaru.
Sesshomaru however was feeling something he had ever felt in his whole life. He felt free. He felt like he could run without a care, speak and act without fear of repercussion. Is this what it was like to be a human? Is this what it was like to be anyone other then himself? No wonder he felt so much hatred towards everyone, he was down right jealous that people could be free to feel this way.
With a sigh, Kagome spoke to Sesshomaru, hoping to break through his sugar induced rush. “Lord Sesshomaru, I think it’s time to go in and get ready to sleep. Would you like to bathe before going to bed?”
Bathe? Sesshomaru looked at Kagome curiously. He wasn’t aware that the miko was nearly obsessed with bathing. He thought to refuse, but thing remembered that he was a stranger in this era, and wasn’t sure if this was one of their customs. “That would be acceptable. Lead me to the hot springs and I will tend to myself.”
Kagome burst into a giggle at the thought of hot springs, having forgotten that the demon had no idea about bath tubs. “Well see...that’s the thing. We don’t have hot springs here.”
Sesshomaru sniffed the air, trying to detect where there was a pond or stream where he could bathe. Finding nothing, he looked back to Kagome. “Where is that you bathe then Miko?”
“Well...you could call it an indoor hot spring.” Waving him forward, she moved back to the house. Certain that he was following her, she went inside and headed to the bathroom.
Once inside the room, she flipped the light on and stepped off to the side to allow Sesshomaru to examine the area.
With his mouth agape, Sesshomaru stared in awe at the room he was in. To one side there was an odd white structure with a single silver handle. Taking a step towards it, he looked down into the bowl of the structure only to find it full of water. Was that water for drinking? He began to reach down with one hand before Kagome’s shriek caused him to stop. “Nooo! You can’t drink the toilet water!”
Turning his gaze away from the thing that Kagome had referred to as a toilet, he looked back at her. “What is this toilet thing used for then?”
With a mild blush, Kagome explained the use of the toilet to him, then demonstrated how he should flush it if he ever used the device.
Who would have thought that humans would come up with a device that allows you to remove waste in such a way. Perhaps they are a bit more clever then I believed. Sesshomaru thought, still admiring the toilet.
Next to the toilet was another small bowl like device, which Kagome explained was where he could wash his hands and brush his teeth. She also informed him that he was to wash his hands whenever he was finished using the toilet.
Then it was time for her to demonstrate the bath tub. Deciding that she would fill the bathtub for him until she was sure he could work it himself, she turned the water on and plugged the drain.
Sesshomaru stared in awe as the bathtub began to fill with water. Reaching his hand under the water flow that was coming out of the faucet, his eyes widened in surprise to find that the water was hot. “Who is tending to the fires to warm the water? Could you tell them I would like it hotter?”
Giggling at Sesshomaru’s request, she simply turned the cold water off and gestured for him to feel the water.
Sticking his clawed hand under the faucet, he was once again shocked to find the water temperature was indeed hotter.
Once the tub was filled, and he was satisfied with the temperature, she switched the water off.
“Well...here is the soap, and here’s the shampoo for your hair.” She motioned to the bottles that lined the side of the tub. She pushed the soap and shampoo away from the other bottles to make it easier for him to distinguish from the rest. “Be careful not to get them in your eyes, it’ll sting like crazy.” She inched her way towards the door, anxious to leave before Sesshomaru decided to strip in front of her. “You can use the towel on the wrack to dry off. If you have any problems just shout.” With that she retreated out of the room.
Finding himself alone, Sesshomaru was torn between sinking into the tub full of hot water, or exploring the confines of the bathroom a bit more. With a grin, he opted for the latter.
Little did the taiyoukai know, that he would soon be up to his knees in trouble, and that wouldn’t be just a figure of speech.
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I’m having tons of fun writing about Sesshomaru and his adventures in the future. But I promise that the next chapter will be the last with just Sesshomaru and Kagome alone.
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Notes- As you might have noticed, I haven’t been writing much about Inuyasha as of yet, but he will reappear soon. I’m also going to be bringing Sango, Miruko and Shippo into the next few chapters, and they’ll probably be in the remainder of the story. There will also be a fight, although I won’t say between who, I’m going to leave it as a surprise. This is probably going to be the last chapter with Sesshomaru and Kagome alone, so be prepared for something to happen between the two.
Chapter 13-
Sesshomaru in the future
Kagome had been sleeping for two hours, but her sleep was far from peaceful. She had tossed and turned, cried out for Inuyasha and practically burst into tears during her nap. Sesshomaru had returned to her room to watch her soon after he had gorged himself on the last slice of pizza and a bowl of chocolate ice cream. Much to his surprise, he had enjoyed the ice cream just as much as the pizza, although to him pizza would always be his preference.
He now stood against the wall in Kagome’s room, pondering if he should wake the miko from the dream which was causing her so much discomfort, or wait for her to wake up on her own.
“Inuyasha!!” It was the third time she had called out his name, but this time it sounded more desperate then the others. Opting to move from his position, he sat down gently on the edge of the bed, placing a gentle hand on Kagome’s cheek. “Shhhh....” He hushed her quietly, the ball of his thumb grazing over her cheek.
Kagome’s eyes fluttered open, meeting a pair of dark amber ones. Briefly she thought that they were Inuyasha’s, at least until she noticed the crescent moon that lay above the center of them. “Sess.....Sesshomaru?” Surprised to find the Lord of the Western lands hovering over her, Kagome sat up with a start. “I’m sorry, did I bother you.”
Despite the fact that his hand still rested on her cheek, she fussed with her hair and clothes. She stopped as her hand brushed against the back of his, just as she brushing her hair away from her cheek. Her eyes widened in surprise, but the surprise was quite pleasant. Once their hands had touched, she fully expected him to pull his away. When he didn’t she found herself leaning into it.
“Your dreams trouble you?” His voice was quiet, almost soft. His eyes were still staring into her own with no hint of pulling away anytime soon.
“My...dreams?” Lifting a brow, she frowned in thought. She couldn’t remember having a dream, and if she had, she didn’t know what it was about. What was he talking about? “I didn’t have a dream. Why do you ask?”
“You cried in your sleep. You were calling for the half breed.” He went silent for a moment, hesitating on the question he wanted to ask her. He mauled it over in his mind for several minutes before finally asking. “What has happened between you and the half breed? Has he caused you harm?”
“Harm? No, he has never harmed me.” With a soft sigh she pushed the blankets off of herself and slipped off the bed. Moving to the window, she leaned her forehead against the cool glass, staring out at the tree...their tree. She flinched outwardly at the twinge of pain that struck her heart. Inuyasha was gone for her, he would forever be her friend, but she would no longer allow herself to fall any deeper under his spell. The dreams that she had once had of the two of them living their lives out together were gone. Now she when she thought of her future, all she could see was a cold lonely world where Inuyasha was with Kagome, and she was alone.
“Miko, if he has never harmed you, then why do you cry when you speak his name?”
Turning back, she offered Sesshomaru a small sad smile. “He’s never harmed me physically. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t hurt to know he’s picked someone else to be with.”
With a creased brow, Sesshomaru tried to understand what the miko was saying. “He picked someone else? This Sesshomaru wasn’t aware that the half breed had anyone else to choose. Explain.”
“Kikyo....you don’t know her?”
“Kikyo? The undead miko?” Sesshomaru could have laughed hysterically at his brother’s stupidity. He had the choice of the beautiful miko who stood before him, one who seemed to be genuinely as pure and sweet as she appeared to be, or the walking dead miko who had always struck him...well as cold and bitter. “My brother tends to mate with a walking corpse? Tell me, have any of the demons you encountered actually knocked what little of a brain he had out? There is no other reason This Sesshomaru can find for such a stupid decision.”
Kagome laughed, but quickly covered her mouth. “That’s funny, but I shouldn’t laugh. Kikyo was his first love, and if that’s what he wants to make him happy, then I guess I’ll just have to deal with it.” Pressing her lips into a thin line, she suffocated a sigh that was threatening to escape her lips. The corners of her lips twitched downwards, her brow following suit as it creased into a frown. “Whatever makes him happy. If it meant me staying here and never going back to your time for the rest of my life, then that’s how it will be.”
“No. This Sesshomaru will not allow you to wallow in your room. You will return back with me and come to stay in my palace. Rin will help you get over the hanyou.” Sesshomaru gave a confirming nod, but did not add that he too would help as well. He was being uncharacteristically kind, but he wouldn’t completely lower his guard down.
“Sesshomaru....it’s kind of you to offer, but I think I should stay here and try to finish out the last few weeks of school. Maybe if I devote all my time to my work, I might be able to pass with higher marks then I have.”
“That was not an offer miko. I’ve already gained permission for your mother, so you have no other choice then to come with me. If need be, this Sesshomaru will drag you back and lock you away.” His voice was stern, but not overtly cruel. His intentions, although they weren’t quite clear to Kagome, seemed to be to offer her a chance to get away.
Locking eyes back with Sesshomaru, she sighed quietly. Why did she get the feeling that he wasn’t going to give in and let her be? Did he really want her to teach Rin that much?
“If this is about me teaching Rin, I can come back when school is out. Then I will have plenty of time without having to return home.”
Shaking his head, he strode over towards Kagome, leaning down over her. Pulling in a deep breath he inhaled deeply, the scent of honeysuckles, her scent, filled his nostrils. He felt something stir in him, her scent overpowering his sense and reason. Lowering his head down he buried his nose in her hair, the lids of his eyes lowering slowly as her scent began to take control of him.
“Kagome.....I have an offer for you. You may take some time to think it over if you wish, but I still insist that you return with me back to my time.” He pulled away from her, trying to resist the allure of her scent which was clearly intoxicating him to where he was too distracted to think clearly. Even as he pulled back, he began to miss her smell, almost craving it. “We will discuss the offer when you agree to return with me and stay at the palace.”
Kagome didn’t miss the mischievous glint in his eye. He was baiting her, hoping that her curiosity would give him the advantage. Fortunately for him the trick worked. “If I promise to go back and stay with you, will you tell me this offer as soon as we get to the other side of the well?”
“The very moment our feet are on solid ground.” He responded, nodding his head in agreement.
With a grin, Kagome reached her hand out for him to shake. “Well then Lord Sesshomaru, I believe we have a deal.”
Looking down at the offered hand, then back up to Kagome, a silver brow arched inquisitively. Taking the delicate appendage into his own, he pulled her closer to him. His good arm encircled around the girl’s waist, forcing a small gasp of surprise from her. Lifting her head up to peer into his eyes, Kagome swallowed back the lump of nervousness that had risen in her throat.
“In my time, we seal deals with a kiss.” He whispered breathlessly over her lips, his face hovering barely inches from hers. The tips of their noses touched briefly, and for a moment she thought that Sesshomaru was joking. She was waiting for him to pull away and begin sprouting out insults about how she offended him by her touch.
“Sess...” She didn’t manage to finish. Just as she spoke, Sesshomaru brushed his lips against her. Pulling in a breath, she froze in place, unable to pull away even though she didn’t really want to. The feel of his lips against hers caused an alarming flutter in her stomach and a pleasant shiver to run down her spine. Sensing the fragile movement in the miko, Sesshomaru pressed his lips against hers a bit more firmly, but still gentle enough to send each and every nerve in her body into a frenzy.
Kagome closed her eyes slowly, her body snuggling in against Sesshomaru’s. Her hands moved up to his shoulders, settling against his finely toned biceps. She was just getting used to the feel of his lips when she felt them separate just enough for the tip of his tongue to brush against her lower lip. Another small gasp escaped her, followed almost immediately by a small moan. Unsure what she was doing, Kagome allowed Sesshomaru’s tongue to manipulate her lips enough to slip between them, the tip of his tongue teasingly brushing against her’s before retreating back into his own mouth.
Kagome’s grip on his arms tightened as she felt her knees growing weak. She felt as if she was swimming away in a sea of silk. Every inch of her from the tips of her toes to the roots of her hair tingling in anticipation. Sure, she had been kissed before, but this...this wasn’t just an ordinary kiss. Behind it she could feel power and strength of Sesshomaru, it was as if he was trying to engulf her with his presence. His kiss was soft and gentle, but at the same time wild. She could feel herself being tempted and teased, all the while feeling safe and secure. He left her completely breathless as he broke away to stare into her face.
“The deal has been sealed. Gather your things, we shall be leaving after the sun sets.” His arms tightened around her before releasing her form and exiting the room.
Kagome remained frozen. Her head was still tilted upwards, her eyes partially opened and her lips slightly parted. Had she been imagining things? Had Sesshomaru, the same Sesshomaru who had tried to kill her, the one who despised humans, just kissed her? Surely she must be dreaming, that couldn’t have happened.
With flushed cheeks Kagome slipped out of her room, dragging the yellow monstrosity of a bag along with her. She couldn’t force the dreamy eyed look from her face, still under the spell of Sesshomaru’s kiss. She suddenly understood what all the girls in school were talking about in the restroom, when they would sneak out of class and whisper about these things with their friends.
She couldn’t shake the trance that she was under, if felt as if she was walking in the clouds and all the world around her suddenly seemed brighter. Her reverie finally snapped as she entered the kitchen, there her mother, grandfather and Sesshomaru all stood staring at her like she was an alien.
“What? Geez, you people act like I’ve got something on my face.” She grinned outwardly, trying to hide her embarrassment at being caught in such a state.
Her mother broke the awkward silence with a chuckle. “Of course there’s nothing on your face dear, we were just wondering what was taking so long for you to come down.” Nodding in the direction of the counter, which was covered with her first aid kit, tons of both cups and packs of ramen, a few bags of cookies and a box of candy bars. Along with the supplies was a rather large styrofoam cooler. Quirking a brow, Kagome leaned over and pulled the top of the cooler off. Staring back at here were two frozen pizzas and a pint of chocolate ice cream covered in ice.
Laughing, Kagome looked up to catch Sesshomaru’s solemn face. “What? This Sesshomaru asked Mrs. Higurashi if she could tell me the secrets to pizza. Instead she was generous enough to give me two, along with dessert.”
Rolling her eyes, Kagome couldn’t help but laugh. “I think I’ve created a monster.”
Sesshomaru smirked at the comment, stiffening his spine so he stood in his usual regal manner. “This Sesshomaru is no monster. All nobility enjoy delectable food, this Sesshomaru is no different.”
Stuffing the rest of her supplies into her bag, she swung it over her shoulders, grabbing a hold on the counter to steady herself. Her gaze moved to Sesshomaru, who looked almost reluctant to leave from what she could see by his stiff manner and the tiniest glint of disappointment in his eyes. Was he enjoying this era, or was he enjoying the time alone with her? Her eyes blinked in confusion, wondering where that second thought had come from. Yeah right, she thought, like he’s really enjoying time alone with a human.
Sesshomaru spoke, almost as if he was reading her mind. “Perhaps the miko would like to spend a few more days with her family? I do not know how long it will be until we are able to return to this time.” He spoke with his usual regal air, but there was something hidden behind his tone, Kagome just couldn’t place it.
Sesshomaru was anxious to return, but he had forgotten on small thing. He would have to make his intentions known to the miko once they were on the other side of the well, and he wasn’t sure if she would readily accept his proposition. A few more days alone couldn’t hurt, unless of course he was to go on kissing her as he just had. Sesshomaru blamed his actions completely on Kagome. If her scent hadn’t distracted him so, he would have never been so weak to stoop to such a romantic gesture.
He allowed his mind to think about the kiss for a moment. He had never suspected that she was so innocent. After all, her clothing was as close to being naked as could get. Thinking of all the leg that she often showed caused a stir somewhere in his stomach. Shifting uncomfortably, he was suddenly aware that both the Higurashi females were staring at him, both wearing the same odd expression.
“Can this Sesshomaru be of assistance?” He growled with mild irritation at the two women, both of whom chuckled at his outburst. The demon Lord tried to look angry, but both women looked positively adorable with their arms around each other’s shoulders and their bright smiles and shining eyes. “Foolish humans.” He muttered under his breath.
“Well Lord Sesshomaru, since it seems you’ll be staying for dinner, would you like the honor of choosing what we will be eating?” The older woman spoke, her voice brimming with amusement.
It suddenly struck Sesshomaru why he held so much animosity towards humans. He himself had always been so serious. Even as a pup he had taken his responsibilities seriously, spending hours in the great hall of the palace listening to his father’s advisors. Instead of running off and playing as other pups, even with his status had, Sesshomaru studied and trained. Once he had reached adulthood he continued. Instead of running off with every willing female, or trying to find a mate as others had, Sesshomaru buried himself behind his work, forcing away any attempts of female companionship that his advisors and even his father tried to impose on him.
Humans however were free to do as they choose. They played happily, regardless of their status or responsibilities. They allowed themselves to be happy, to mate freely without worry or hesitation that they had made the wrong choice. Their smiles seemed to be permanently etched onto their faces. Even if they weren’t happy, it was easy enough for them to get amusement in even the simplest things. Although he would never admit it, he was slightly jealous. While he remained so stoic and uptight, around him the rest of the world seemed to make it painfully known that he would never be as light hearted and carefree as the rest.
His thoughts had consumed him so that he didn’t notice that the family had left him alone in the room. Kagome had retreated bak to her own room, her mother off to return the pizza and ice cream she had packed for them back in the freezer, and the man was off taking care of all the relics.
He was about to move when a gentle voice called to him. “Lord Sesshomaru, would you mind coming in here please?”
Following the sound towards Mrs. Higurashi, he was amazed to find the woman beaming another smile in his direction. Did she not have any other expressions then a smile? But what had he expected from the mother of the eternal ray of sunshine that was now upstairs resting on her bed.
“Mrs. Higurashi?”
Mrs. Higurashi looked up at the demon lord, unable to contain the mischievous grin that was growing larger by the second. Without a warning, she was thrusting a bowl and spoon into his hands.
Sesshomaru stared blankly at the contents of the bowl. In it was something he recognized as chocolate ice cream, but the stuff on top was a mystery. There was fluffy white stuff with a red thing on the top. Also onto of the ice cream was some sort of dark brown liquid. He sniffed the bowl cautiously, his senses were overwhelmed with some of the sweetest scents he had ever encountered. “What is this?” He asked unable to mask the curiosity in his voice.
“Try it.” Was all the woman would respond with. She turned her back on the demon and went about straightening out her kitchen.
Refusing to move from his spot in case the retched woman was giving him something that would make him ill, Sesshomaru dipped the spoon into the fluffy white stuff and took a small taste.
Mrs. Higurashi was unable to keep her eyes away, the curiosity of how the demon lord would respond to his sundae had gotten the better of her. Turning away from the sink full of dishes, she had to stifle her laughter as she caught the expression on Sesshomaru’s face. He looked like a man who had died and gone to heaven.
His eyes were as wide as saucers, and he wasn’t not even aware that he had whipped cream smeared around his lips. He was too involved in savoring the delicate cream that had melted in his mouth and flooded his taste buds with the sweetest sensation he had ever experienced. He was refraining from shoveling the whole bowl into his mouth in one bite, instead he took small spoonfuls of the delightful dessert, allowing it to melt in his mouth for as long as he could. No wonder Kagome was always so cheerful. The dessert could make even he himself, the might Lord of the Western Lands almost giddy in it’s deliciousness.
After a moment he reached up and plucked the small red thing that had been on top of the whipped cream and placed it in his mouth, almost expecting it to melt away as everything else had. He soon realized that this thing was different then the rest of the bowls contents. After pushing it around with his tongue for a moment, he dared a small bite into it. His eyes widened even more as a gush of sweet juice exploded into his mouth.
He finished off the cherry, in painfully slow chews and looked back into the bowl. One thing left to sample. Dipping his spoon back into the bowl, he scooped up a small portion of the dark brown liquid. Sliding the spoon into his mouth, he was pleasantly surprised at the slight warmth of the chocolate sauce. It tasted similar to the chocolate ice cream, but the texture was smoother and the taste was just a bit richer.
It took him at least ten minutes to fully devour his sundae. Mrs. Higurashi couldn’t help but laugh at the demon as she watched. She had to admit she was rather pleased with the side effect the sundae seemed to have on him. Instead of the air around him being so thick with tension, it began to grow lighter as the taiyoukai loosened up.
Just as Sesshomaru finished up his dessert, Kagome walked into the kitchen. She blinked, believing her eyes were deceiving her. Was Sesshomaru really standing in her kitchen, completely speechless...with a smile on his face? Stepping up to the demon, she stood before him with her hands on her hips. “Sesshomaru? Are you okay?”
“I am wonderful.” Sesshomaru replied in a light voice.
“Wonderful?” Arching a brow, she looked to her mother. “What did you do, drug him?”
Laughing, Mrs. Higurashi stepped over to take the bowl from Sesshomaru. “Of course not. But I do feel it’ll be a good idea for you to get him out of the house soon...I fear he’ll be having a sugar rush any minute.”
Glancing into the bowl, Kagome noticed the small pool of melted ice cream at the bottom. A bowl of ice cream? Is that all it took to make the high and mighty lord act almost normal?
Shaking her head she let out a small chuckle. “Come on Lord Sesshomaru, let’s get you out of here before you start destroying the house.”
She was surprised when Sesshomaru let her take his arm and pull him out of the house. Once outside she dropped his arm and continued to watch in fascination at the taiyoukai’s antics.
He stood perfectly still for a moment, but then quickly snatched Kagome around the waist and spun her around. “Miko, I would give you my lands if you will promise me that you will bring me some more of that....that....whatever it was your mother just gave me.”
Who’d have thought that Lord Sesshomaru was a junk food junkie, she giggled quietly at the thought.
“Sesshomaru, I’ll promise to give you as much ice cream if you promise that you’ll lighten up a bit. Deal?” Her body jerked in a flinch, remembering what happened the last time they had made a deal.
“Deal?” A grin spread over Sesshomaru’s lips as he leaned down over the anxious miko. Instead of a long drawn out kiss he had given her earlier, he lightly brushed his lips against hers then pushed her away gently. “The deal is sealed.”
Kagome blinked at the small kiss she was given, mildly disappointed that it wasn’t as long as the one before. What am I thinking, I don’t want to kiss him. Especially not when he’s acting like some sort of sugar fiend. She thought to herself as she watched Sesshomaru race around the grounds of the Shrine, howling like a loon.
I know chocolate is suppose to give you the feeling of being in love, but this is just ridiculous! But then again, I’d rather see him acting like a nut then being an uptight jerk, Kagome mused as she continued to keep her eyes on Sesshomaru.
Sesshomaru however was feeling something he had ever felt in his whole life. He felt free. He felt like he could run without a care, speak and act without fear of repercussion. Is this what it was like to be a human? Is this what it was like to be anyone other then himself? No wonder he felt so much hatred towards everyone, he was down right jealous that people could be free to feel this way.
With a sigh, Kagome spoke to Sesshomaru, hoping to break through his sugar induced rush. “Lord Sesshomaru, I think it’s time to go in and get ready to sleep. Would you like to bathe before going to bed?”
Bathe? Sesshomaru looked at Kagome curiously. He wasn’t aware that the miko was nearly obsessed with bathing. He thought to refuse, but thing remembered that he was a stranger in this era, and wasn’t sure if this was one of their customs. “That would be acceptable. Lead me to the hot springs and I will tend to myself.”
Kagome burst into a giggle at the thought of hot springs, having forgotten that the demon had no idea about bath tubs. “Well see...that’s the thing. We don’t have hot springs here.”
Sesshomaru sniffed the air, trying to detect where there was a pond or stream where he could bathe. Finding nothing, he looked back to Kagome. “Where is that you bathe then Miko?”
“Well...you could call it an indoor hot spring.” Waving him forward, she moved back to the house. Certain that he was following her, she went inside and headed to the bathroom.
Once inside the room, she flipped the light on and stepped off to the side to allow Sesshomaru to examine the area.
With his mouth agape, Sesshomaru stared in awe at the room he was in. To one side there was an odd white structure with a single silver handle. Taking a step towards it, he looked down into the bowl of the structure only to find it full of water. Was that water for drinking? He began to reach down with one hand before Kagome’s shriek caused him to stop. “Nooo! You can’t drink the toilet water!”
Turning his gaze away from the thing that Kagome had referred to as a toilet, he looked back at her. “What is this toilet thing used for then?”
With a mild blush, Kagome explained the use of the toilet to him, then demonstrated how he should flush it if he ever used the device.
Who would have thought that humans would come up with a device that allows you to remove waste in such a way. Perhaps they are a bit more clever then I believed. Sesshomaru thought, still admiring the toilet.
Next to the toilet was another small bowl like device, which Kagome explained was where he could wash his hands and brush his teeth. She also informed him that he was to wash his hands whenever he was finished using the toilet.
Then it was time for her to demonstrate the bath tub. Deciding that she would fill the bathtub for him until she was sure he could work it himself, she turned the water on and plugged the drain.
Sesshomaru stared in awe as the bathtub began to fill with water. Reaching his hand under the water flow that was coming out of the faucet, his eyes widened in surprise to find that the water was hot. “Who is tending to the fires to warm the water? Could you tell them I would like it hotter?”
Giggling at Sesshomaru’s request, she simply turned the cold water off and gestured for him to feel the water.
Sticking his clawed hand under the faucet, he was once again shocked to find the water temperature was indeed hotter.
Once the tub was filled, and he was satisfied with the temperature, she switched the water off.
“Well...here is the soap, and here’s the shampoo for your hair.” She motioned to the bottles that lined the side of the tub. She pushed the soap and shampoo away from the other bottles to make it easier for him to distinguish from the rest. “Be careful not to get them in your eyes, it’ll sting like crazy.” She inched her way towards the door, anxious to leave before Sesshomaru decided to strip in front of her. “You can use the towel on the wrack to dry off. If you have any problems just shout.” With that she retreated out of the room.
Finding himself alone, Sesshomaru was torn between sinking into the tub full of hot water, or exploring the confines of the bathroom a bit more. With a grin, he opted for the latter.
Little did the taiyoukai know, that he would soon be up to his knees in trouble, and that wouldn’t be just a figure of speech.
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I’m having tons of fun writing about Sesshomaru and his adventures in the future. But I promise that the next chapter will be the last with just Sesshomaru and Kagome alone.
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