InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Finding Kagome ❯ Chapter Thirty Four ( Chapter 34 )

DISCLAIMER: I do not own InuYasha and company, however I DO own an overactive imagination...

 

A/N:: This is a rewrite including a few more details that will make more sense in later chapters.

 

 

Finding Kagome

 

 

 

 

Chapter Thirty Four

 

 

 

 

“What the hell do you mean, 'Kouga so much as admitted to having her apartment ransacked'??” Kagura was beside herself, her red eyes flashing . “You never mentioned having a conversation with the son-of-a-bitch!! Just when did this occur??”

 

Sesshoumaru was the epitome of calm as he watched his chosen's anger escalate, a hint of a twinkle in his eyes before they narrowed slightly in response to her tirade. It was not his habit to report to anyone beyond his regular reports to the council, it never had been and she knew that. However, her reaction to this new piece of information intrigued him, to say the least.

 

“To be specific, approximately seven fifteen last Wednesday evening,” he stepped casually away from the desk where he had just concluded his abbreviated conversation with InuYasha. “He was responding to the . . . message I left for him.”

 

“You mean the altercation you told me about?” her eyes narrowed on him. “In other words, he attacked you!! You never told me he attacked you, Sesshoumaru! Why would you leave that out?”

 

“There was no need to worry you,” he retrieved his tea from the desk, and took a sip contemplatively. “He's made a challenge however. Though what he wishes to accomplish by it . . . this Sesshoumaru does not understand.” He went to the window and watched the fog move in. “It's as though he is locked into the past . . . he has no comprehension of how the current system works. He seems to believe that there is some high rank which he will purloin with my demise.”

 

“You mean, beyond exacting revenge for his mate's death,” she added, drawing close behind him.

 

“There is that, too,” he admitted with a sigh of resignation.

 

“Sesshoumaru. . .” Kagura pulled his attention from the window with soft touch to the blade of his shoulder, “What was he after in the girl's apartment?”

 

The Demon studied the face of his intended carefully. Her concerns for his safety were not unfounded. And her involvement had been set the moment he enlisted her aid in hunting down his bull headed brother.

 

“I have not pressed this point with InuYasha,” the hint of concern etched on his features spoke volumes as he turned toward her. “However I have a strong suspicion that he is searching for the Shikon no Tama.”

 

She hesitated a moment, then backed away from him a step, a flash of shock and horror marring her features. A shudder visibly ran through her small frame.

 

“You can't possibly believe that. . .” her eyes darted around the room, finally settling on a patch of thin air. “I thought it was safe here. I thought we would be safe here! No. . .” she shook her head and waved her hands as if she could erase what he had just said. “I can't go through that again! I won't!”

 

“Kagura,”, his voice was low as he set his tea back down on the desk and reached for her. He hadn't expected such a dramatic reaction and wished he could retract his words. But what was done, was invariably done, and sheltering her from it would do no good in the long run.

 

“No! I've seen first hand how that. . . thing corrupts everyone around it!” Unrestrained fear contorted her features. “I came here for a new start. . . and now the damn thing is HERE?? Where?? Who's responsible??” She was obviously still in the mindset of Naraku being in control of the Jewel of Four Souls. Or perhaps if not Naraku, then some other with malicious intent, which was definitely not the case now.

 

“Kagura, stop.” His voice while still low was laced with command, a tone he knew she instinctively understood through her panic. “We know nothing in certainty, yet. . . InuYasha has said that he buried the Jewel with the miko's remains, in Edo. Come. . .” He took her arm, pulling her with him to an overstuffed chair, drawing her into his lap. “Did this Sesshoumaru not promise to you his protection in these matters?”

 

She still trembled at the flashing memories. It was all over her face. The horrors she had been pressed to perform, death and destruction, conspiracy and deceit, all these memories she had left behind her when she left Japan for good, when she had left him. Now the horrors of her ancient misdeeds were following her, haunting her, announced by his suspicions.

 

“Can you protect me. . . from my past?” She blinked back the tears that she knew in her heart she had no right to shed.

 

“Itoshii,” he whispered as he drew her head to his shoulder. The endearment was not lost on her. “Have you yet to redeem yourself? After all this time . . .”

 

“Just when I think I tip the balance to my favor. . .” she shuddered again, “something reminds me and I know there is no true redemption. . . I belong in hell, right beside Naraku.”

 

“I refuse to believe that. You are no more evil than I,” he dismissed her proclamation. “Regret can be a cancerous thing when unchecked. . .” he gently kissed her forehead. “I believe you are the one who helped me to understand that. Is it not time. . . for you. . . to as they say, 'walk the talk'?”

 

She pulled back from him, blinking in surprise at his admonition. If it weren't for the seriousness of their conversation he would have found her expression amusing. He had to choose his words with the utmost care, or she might once again misinterpret his intentions.

 

“Your heart is your own, and it shall remain so. . . have I not promised this?” he asked pointedly. “Naraku is dead. . . Long dead. . . . He cannot control you from Hell.” His eyes narrowed with meaning. “And as much as this Sesshoumaru might have wished it, even I have not laid my full claim to your affections. . . simply put. . . because it is your wish to be totally free. No one will pull your strings, My Lady. . . No one. Not even I. I will not allow it.”

 

“I don't. . .” he stopped her with a finger to her lips, and a soft shushing. Over their years together, and apart as well, it had all been said before one way or another. He had no need for explanations. A single tear made its way down her cheek. Tracing up it's path with his finger, he collected it then brought it to his lips. Eyes sparkling, he gently kissed her eyes.

 

She dropped her head to his shoulder again, and welcomed his comfort as he cradled her.

 

Their's had always been a tumultuous relationship, and while he knew she would cling to the familiarity of his touch, her hackles would rise each and every time he would 'pull rank' on her. He knew after so much time, it wasn't something that could easily change. He understood why it was this way. He had waited each time that she would pull away, knowing that eventually she would return to him. He was determined that one day she would permanently find her sanctuary in him. His heart had chosen her long ago. No one knew him better, no one understood him as completely.

 

She had been the only one to fully understand his need to find his wayward sibling. The search for InuYasha had diverted him from much needed attention to the family holdings on more than one occasion, and he had been pressed to defend his position as a result. Some of those conflicts had ended badly, and she had been there to nurse his wounds, both the physical as well as those to his pride. It had been Kagura to note the subtle loss of his strength as the years progressed. The slow, insidious decline of his power. It was on her assistance that he began to distance himself from conflicts, and he began relying on the loyalties of others to defend his holdings. Negotiation and diplomacy became his best defense.

 

There had, however, been no defense for the desolation he experienced as a result of Kagura's ultimate departure from Japan. A decision that was hers to make, she wished for a fresh start in a land where memories of Naraku and his evil did not exist. A place where many cultures met, and melded together. He had not tried to stop her, though that fact became another item added to his long list of regrets in life.

 

The assault on Hiroshima wrought devastation on the lands of his father's rule, and though immune to the lasting effects of the bombs, it forced him to reevaluate his decision to remain, to not simply follow her. The human rulers of the land of his birth were at war with those of the adopted land of his chosen mate. What was familiar to him, was simply. . . no more. To continue as he had been would have been a practice in futility. His Kagura had already abandoned their homeland, and her loss was something he had felt too acutely. His journeys overseas to be near her had become longer and longer stays, and he ultimately decided to permanently relocate to the United States. Hence, as is often the case with long lived Daiyoukai, he began anew. Perhaps not the best business decision he had ever made. But then again he had managed to keep his fingers in the reconstruction efforts after the war.

 

Now that his brother was found and well on his way to completing his own quest, Sesshoumaru believed it was safe for him to begin pursuit of his own desires, for what remained of his future. The female he was holding was an integral part of those desires. No. . . truth be told, she was primary. . . it far past time for her to come home. When he had built this modern fortress that he considered home, it was with two things in mind. Presenting InuYasha with his birthright, and providing for his mate a secure home. Damn her stubbornness. But the air of her possessiveness as she demanded information about Kouga suggested she was closer to ready to accept his claim than he had hoped.

 

“We should have more news from InuYasha soon. . .” his mellow tone broke the silence of their mutual scattered thoughts. “Though I doubt that he will be coming home tonight. . .” he turned his neck and cocked his head to gage her expression, “would you. . . consider. . . staying?”

 

He was rewarded with soft lips pressed against his neck, and a quiet eruption of suppressed chuckles. The humor of the situation was lost on the Demon.

 

“That amuses you?” he queried with a raised brow.

 

“Yes, actually,” she grinned into his neck. “Your 'pup' is off to a slumber party and you want to have one of your own . . .”

 

“Hn,” he grunted. “I would hardly consider my invitation to be for a 'slumber party'. Slumber would suggest sleep . . .” not finishing the comment, his eyes sparkled and he traced her cheek. “However, my Lady, you have yet to respond to my invitation.” He allowed a small sigh in a caricature of defeat, removing his touch from her face. It had the desired effect.

 

“My Lord . . .” Her eyes widened as she watched his hand slip away. “How could I possibly say no?” The edges of her mouth raised as full understanding of his intent came to her. Then with eyelids half mast, she gently pressed her lips against his.

 

Fisting her hair in his hand, he deepened the contact. Yes, perhaps tonight would be the night.

 

 

~ooO0Ooo~

 

 

 

 

Miranda pulled the meat off the spit, and dropped it noisily onto a platter she had just retrieved from the kitchen. She had held her tongue on seeing that her mate was obviously agitated, but she was losing the battle with holding her temper.

 

She hadn't cared for the expression on his face as he pulled that girl away from Sally and whats-his-name, then handed her off to the surfer like she was some kind of gift. She knew that something significant had happened and not knowing what it was nagged at her.

 

Kouga's distance from her since her cousin had rushed off yanked at her insides in a wholly primal way, it had taken some real concentration to not . . . just react.

 

Now the silence was going to kill her, and she had to break it.

 

“She was the one, I take it. . .” she peered at her mate. “The one you've been looking for?”

 

“She is.” He didn't even look at her, his attention off toward the waves.

 

“Does she have it? Did she tell you anything?” Miranda crossed her arms, walling herself off to any potential explosion from him. She knew she was going to have to drag everything out of him, and she wasn't pleased about it.

 

“She has it.”

 

“So. . . where is it?” the Jewel was the main goal, and he had let the woman in possession of it slip out of his grasp. This made no sense to her.

 

“She's wearing it. . . just like she used to,” he turned toward her, his expression bordering on morose.

 

“Why didn't you just take it then?? It's what you've wanted. . .” she demanded.

 

“I. . . couldn't,” he dropped to sit on the floor of the deck, chin resting on one hand.

 

“What the hell is wrong with you? You handed her off to that guy like. . .” she dropped her arms and moved toward him in exasperation, “Hell, like some kind of prize. And now you tell me she had the damn thing on her all along??”

 

His brow wrinkled as he looked up at his mate for the first time since their guests had so abruptly departed. There was a guilty air about his expression, and Miranda's heart dropped as she suddenly realized what was going on. That look could only mean one thing.

 

“Oh no. . . I can see it in your eyes. . . she's that one!” She sat by him and gripped his arm. “She's the one you told me about . . . and you still have feelings for her!!”

 

“Doesn't matter . . . ” he glanced at her grip on his arm, and sighed. “It's just a matter of time. . . we will have the Jewel.”

 

“What do you mean? You just sent the Jewel off with some surfer!!” She released her hold on his arm and cuffed his shoulder in aggravation. The unexpected act seemed to wake him from his trance. Reacting to her affront he grabbed both of her wrists and fixed her with a explosive glower.

 

She held her breath, realizing she had pushed him just a little. . . bit. . . too. . . far.

 

“You'd expect me to just yank the damn thing off of her throat!! And stupidly think there would be no repercussions?? She has enough power knock me out of existence with a single touch, wench!!” He shook his head in amazement at her naivety, then seemed to lose himself in the depths of her eyes. His expression softening, he seemed to suddenly notice the hold he had on her and he released his grip on her wrists, then pulled her against his side protectively. He nuzzled into her neck, reminding himself of where, and with whom he was. “That Hojo. . . he's a lot more than just a surfer. He's the tool we need to get that Jewel off of her neck. . . Her power isn't a deterrent for him.”

 

Miranda rubbed at her wrists, then sighed into the warmth of his arms around her. He was coming back to her, finally.

 

“How? She seemed to be avoiding him all afternoon. . .” she rested her head against his shoulder.

 

“I've taken care of that. . . she's been holding onto the past. . . she'll let go now and when she does Hojo will be there to help her put the pieces back together again. Meanwhile, I have a feeling we will find a good use for this . . . surfer. What do you know about him?”

 

She thought back on what little she knew about the man.

 

“Selene said he was a friend of what's-his-name. . . He attends Berkley, the university. . . ” She wrapped her arms around his neck and feathered it with a kiss, as she pondered the uses for a bright, young mind. “There are lots of young, impressionable people there. . . Campuses are a traditional breeding ground for political causes and religious cults.” Miranda backed away slightly, tilting her head with a calculating expression.

 

“What are you thinking?” Kouga's eyes narrowed on his mate, as he watched her mind working.

 

“I'm thinking. . .” her eyes gleamed with inspiration, “It's time for you to wade into the human pool. When you begin your reign, people will not adjust easily. It just makes sense that a way should be paved. . . ahead of time, to prepare them, don't you think? Who better to help us than those who would be most affected by this . . . this change of power that you plan to accomplish?”

 

“I'm listening. . . You think that there are those that would be attentive . . . now?? At this. . . university?” he asked. “Hojo certainly seemed fascinated. . .” His brow furrowed. “There are factions that would rebel against involving humans, though.” The Southerners would never accept ningen involvement, though lately they had been more trouble than they were worth. He would need to do something about that, and soon.

 

“Perhaps some new political cause. . .” She rested a cheek on a curled hand as she sorted through possible causes they could focus on. Since he had always appeared to think of everything legal as being human drivel, she systematically eliminated every one that came to mind.

 

“No. . . ” he frowned. “The expression on his face, when I told him the truth about what we are. . . he wasn't afraid, he was fascinated. . . and when I explained how the miko understands our ways, and reacts to them on an instictive level . . . it was as if it were divine inspiration for him.” He pulled her into his lap, nuzzling into her hair. “That's what we are, Koishii . . . divine. . . we are the gods of ages past, returned to reclaim what is our right.”

 

“Hmm . . . So . . . religion?? It would have to be something remarkable to gain a following in this day and age,” she warned sceptically.

 

“A return to basics. . . Nature. . .” He pondered for a few moments. “You hold a great reverence for things natural, why would they not? With a prophecy of what's to come. . . The return of the Divine Race, and a promise of protection to all believers.” He broke into a broad grin. “He's well spoken, our surfer. . . he would be a good mouthpiece, and this. . . university. . . sounds like the perfect recruiting ground. . .” he tufted her hair in his hands, “and you, my mate. . . shall be recognized as the absolute goddess that you are. . . you're brilliant!” Her shock at what he was suggesting was interrupted by a devouring kiss, which she immediately and helplessly melted into.

 

Goddess huh? I could get used to that. . .

 

 

 

88*88*88*88*88

 

 

 

Michael rubbed the back of his head where he had just been unceremoniously smacked by his precious Selene. His bemused expression was interrupted as a realization dawned on him, just what it was that he had witnessed in the hallway.

 

“Just who the HELL does that joker think he is??” he demanded, moving toward the door with a scowl. Selene stopped him by grabbing his shoulders and turning him to face her beaming smile.

 

“Don't you get it, Mikey?? It's HIM!!” Selene proceeded to conduct a little victory dance, something akin to what one might see on the end zone after a touchdown, sans the football. She couldn't quite control the squeal that was welling in her throat.

 

“He was practically eating her face!!” he whispered hoarsely. “What's gotten into you?? We don't know this guy from Adam!!” He grabbed her shoulders, effectively ending the dance but not her exuberance

 

“The pictures, Monk!! He took those pictures, who else would care about those things?? It's HIM!!” She pointed at the door, “That's InuYasha out there, it has to be!! “

 

“No, no, no, no,” he waved his hands shaking his head. “It's impossible, Sally. . . Ouna said that Kagome's hanyou has to be dead. It's been too long. . .” His effort to break through to the beaming woman with reason was leaving him nonplussed. “OK, I will accept that Kagome seems to be attracted to the 'Wild Child' type, unexpected . . . but there is NO WAY I am going to buy that . . . that person. . . is the legendary Dog-boy.”

 

The only response from Selene was a broad grin with bright eyes on her bobbing head.

 

“The ONLY thing he has in common that I can see is a pair of dog ears on top of his head. . .” he looked up thoughtfully, “which she really seems to like. . .” he shuddered slightly, then grabbed Selene by her upper arms for emphasis. “It could be a trick. . . a ploy to gain her confidence. Then what?? Even Kouga said he was dead. . .”

 

“GOD, Michael!! Don't tell me you would believe anything that arrogant, self serving. . . DEMON would say??” she hissed incredulously, pulling from his grasp.

 

“But, what if its the truth, Sally?”

 

“You saw how he reacted. . . he said he could SMELL Kouga, and it really disturbed him. He really hates him, Monk. . .” she paced three steps then back to face him, “It stands to reason that Kouga hates him too, and would lie to Kagome about him.”

 

Michael glanced worriedly toward the door.

 

“To serve what purpose?” he turned to face her, eyes narrowed. “To break her heart?? That makes no sense, she's done nothing to him.”

 

“Tell me of anything that you know about Kouga that DOES make sense. . .” she demanded.

 

“I don't know much more than I did before we went out there. . . except that he really is youkai, and he knocked your cousin up.” Michael stopped, then swallowed as he thought about what he had just said.

 

The comment made Selene wince, then frown. She didn't want to believe that Miranda was lost to her because of this decision to become involved with Kouga.

 

“The enemy of my enemy is my friend. . . “ she quoted determinedly, her expression grim.

 

“Bullshit,” countered Michael, equally as grim and shaking his head rapidly. His terse use of the profanity caused Selene to twitch. “I don't trust him any more than I do Kouga. . . He's after something, I'm sure of it.”

 

“The only thing I'm after right now is food. . .” InuYasha pushed through the door, a lopsided grin on his face with Kagome in tow. She glanced back and forth at the mutual irritation on the faces of her friends and stepped forward, handing InuYasha his hat.

 

“We've gotta hungry puppy in the house . . . any suggestions?” She posed as nonchalantly as possible, trying to break the standoff between Michael and Selene with her best smile.

 

“Oi wench!! I get enough of that shit from the jackass,” he pulled her back against him with a possessive arm around her middle, and muttered into her neck, “I'll show you how much of a 'puppy' I am. . .” then growled pointedly, which caused her to giggle with a high blush on her cheeks.

 

Selene unlocked her glare on Michael and watched the couple, unable to suppress her smile. She had never seen Kagome look so. . . Happy. And Kagome was one already of the most cheerful people she had ever known. Damn Mikey and his stubbornness.

 

“I could order pizza . . .” Selene suggested.

 

“What about The Noodle Factory? We didn't actually eat last night,” Kagome offered brightly.

 

“I don't wanna go anywhere. . .” the hanyou detoured, knowing fully well he couldn't show his face at that particular restaurant any time soon. “. . . what's pizza?” he asked curiously, resting his chin on Kagome's head.

 

Selene and Michael gawked at him. Assuming she had misheard, and he meant what kind of pizza, Selene went to a drawer to pull out a flyer for a local pizzeria, and handed it to him.

 

“What ever you want, it's all good in my opinion,” she grinned.

 

“You eat this? It looks disgusting. . .” he muttered looking at the glossy photos . “Probably spicy too. . .” he frowned and shook his head.

 

“Pizza sounds great, my dear,” Michael interjected forcefully, not certain what to think of Inudono's obvious lack of familiarity with the dish.

 

“I like the Hawaiian, Caleb. . . its not spicy,” Kagome offered. “Wait, isn't there some ramen in here??” She made her way to the cupboard, pulling out a couple of packages.

 

“OK, it's settled. . . if 'puppy' doesn't like the pizza he can have ramen, so the 'puppy' won't starve,” Michael taunted, then added with a snarl, “Or. . . the 'puppy' could just. . . go HOME.”

 

“Monk!! I swear!!” Selene raised a fist and shook it menacingly. Michael backed up a step and raised his hands in placation.

 

InuYasha's initial infuriation with the taunting wavered as he observed the two, taking note of the birthmark on Michael's hand. Stepping toward the man, he lifted his hand as though for a handshake, the hint of a scowl still on his face. Michael stared at the gesture, unsure why he was being approached like this after being so rude. Tentatively he stretched out his right hand, and was shocked when the hanyou grabbed it and flipped it over inspecting his palm.

 

“Kazaana . . . all that's left,” InuYasha muttered, turning the hand over to inspect the back then releasing it. “Naraku died that night.” He informed the confused man, then turned to Selene, “We almost made it in time for him. . . it was so close. Kami . . . I'm so sorry.” Selene knew exactly what he was saying, and at the tears welling in her eyes he pulled her in for an embrace.

 

“What the hell are you talking about? HEY!” Michael pushed him lightly away from Selene. “Enough of that stuff, huh?” He wrapped an arm possessively around his girl.

 

“Tell him about the pictures, Caleb . . .” she mumbled. “The ones from Kagome's apartment.”

 

InuYasha straightened, then blinked at the detective. He had thought that part was over.

 

“Pictures?” Kagome peered at InuYasha, and found guilt written all over his face. “My apartment? Maybe you should tell me! You were in my apartment??”

 

“Not like you think, Kagome!!” Selene interrupted. “He didn't do that damage. . . but he took something, didn't you Caleb? What did you take with you?” She prodded at his hesitance.

 

“Kagome. . . just like she was when I first saw her. . . and the God Tree, the place I slept for so long. They'd been damaged, but. . .” he looked at Kagome. “They're more than I'd had for a very long time. I couldn't just leave them there.”

 

“OK, so he knows the legends, that doesn't prove anything,” Michael snorted.

 

“Mikey?” Kagome was wringing her hands, confusion setting into her features.

 

“Ask me what you want, Monk . . . Don't talk about me like I'm not fuckin' here . . .” growled the hanyou. At Michaels obstinate expression, he shot to Kagome, “Go pack some things, you're comin' with me.” Kagome stood frozen in place, not sure what was happening. “MOVE IT WENCH!” he ordered her, and she jumped, but stood her ground.

 

“Caleb . . .” Selene backed up a step from his heated expression. “You can't just run away from this and drag Kagome with you . . .”

 

“The HELL I can't! I'm not runnin', damnit!” he spat angrily. “Until I know what the fuck is going on, she'll be safer at the compound . . . I'll keep her safe. . .”

 

“The compound?? Oh, HELL no!!” Michael waved his hands in negation. “Youkai Central is NOT where she needs to be!!”

 

“Sittin' in that murdering wolf's lap is NOT where she should have been!! Who's bright fuckin' idea was THAT, Monk??” InuYasha demanded pointedly.

 

“I wasn't in his lap . . .” Kagome whispered as a shudder ran through her. “Why would he lie to me . . .”

 

“Sesshoumaru has an extensive security system, NO ONE gets near the gates without his knowing,” InuYasha held up a finger for each point of his reasoning. “You saw what those animals did to her home . . . Do you want that here?? A few slips of rice paper won't stop them, trust me . . . And until I know what the hell it is that bastard is after, I am keepin' her WITH ME!”

 

“Who the hell is Sesshoumaru?? There's no way I'm going to let you take . . .” Michael's determined response was cut off by Kagome's scream.

 

“INUYASHA!!” The hanyou froze at what was clearly the tone he usually heard just prior to being sat. “Why would Kouga tell me that you are dead??”

 

The silence in the kitchen was deafening in comparison to her outburst. InuYasha thought for a moment, after heaving a sigh of relief that he didn't crash through the linoleum floor.

 

“Um . . . Wishful thinking?” he ventured, “He didn't really say that, did he??”

 

“Among other things, yes.” Her troubled expression worried him, and glancing at Selene the same expression was mirrored with a tiny nod of affirmation.

 

Gathering Kagome into his arms, he held her close for a time before speaking.

 

“Tell me what he said, Koi . . . all of it,” he demanded gently.

 

“Don't call me that. . .” she glared up at him through unshed tears and pushed away from his embrace. “That's what you called her, isn't it? You really took my pictures??” She crossed her arms over her chest defensively.

 

“They're in my room . . .” he told her, his eyes reflecting confusion and the sense of loss generated by her abrupt departure from his arms.

 

“You really loved her . . .” she whispered hoarsely, “you . . . still do.”

 

“Of course I do, why the hell else would I be here??” She wasn't making any sense to him.

 

“But . . . she's gone, Caleb . . . I'm not her. I told Kouga basically the same thing, just before he told me . . .” her face morphed into another grimace, and she darted past him and out of the room, leaving the door swinging behind her.

 

Selene shook her head, and ran after her friend, leaving both men scratching their heads with confusion.

 

“So. . . is that why Kouga is after her? He wants to mate her?? But didn't you tell me he already has a human mate?” InuYasha asked.

 

“Miranda, she's Sally's cousin . . . it's been really recent. She's pregnant already,” Michael thought for a few seconds. “Wait, you called him a murdering wolf. What did you mean by that??”

 

“He's wolf youkai . . . you've heard the Redwood Mangler reports?”

 

“Sure, who hasn't . . . “ Michael's eyes went wide. “Oh, HELL . . . are you serious??”

 

“I wouldn't kid around about shit like that . . .” he fixed Michael with a poignant look, “and some of the stuff going on in town . . . That's his people. They're huntin' for something . . . “ the hanyou glared at the floor.

 

Michael's horrified expression was unchanged and he swallowed as he realized that the thing these creatures were looking for was quite probably that pretty necklace on Kagome's neck. The tingling sensation of cold dead fingers ran up his spine.

 

“You, uh . . . have any idea what it is they're looking for?” he baited. InuYasha shook his head.

 

“Look. . .” he fixed Michael with an expression of honesty that was nearly impossible to deny. “All I want is my life back. . . Without Kagome, I have no life. . . She is my life.”

 

Michael found that earnestness impossible to believe as examined the strange being in front of him. He still wasn't convinced of anything, and he was not going to allow Kagome fall into some trap. This guy was obviously from the privileged class, not to mention having a racial advantage, if it could be considered such. Even with the new revelations about Kouga, he still didn't trust him.

 

“Those are pretty impressive words, coming from some affluent playboy who's only JUST MET HER!!” Michael spat with a look of disgust.

 

“I know her. . .” InuYasha countered, “I know her heart.”

 

“Seriously, Caleb. . . You should just get back on that pretty bike of yours and go home to your mansion on the hill . . . Kagome has no use for that sort of thing . . .” Having made his decision, Michael pushed to end this invasion by the impostor. He had to protect Kagome.

 

“You think I am trying to lure her with luxuries? Fuck that, Monk . . . None of that shit is mine. It was there when I got here. It's all meaningless to me. My jackass brother is the one with the 'fine tastes', just give me a campfire and close friends and I am a happy guy.” InuYasha's ears twitched in irritation. “All of that was taken away from me a piece at a time. . . my family was taken from me and I want it back, damnit! Is that so wrong? I want my mate back . . . I want to give her all the things that I couldn't while we were off chasing rumors of shards . . . Does that make me a bad person to you??”

 

“I have to hand it to you, you've really done your homework,” Michael crossed his arms.

 

“Keh!! And you all called ME stubborn!”

 

“Do me a favor, huh? Put that damn hat back on.” He eyed the twitching ears on the hanyou's head. “Those just give me . . . the creeps.”

 

“MICHAEL ANDREWS!! How dare you insult him!!” Selene pushed her way through the door and promptly smacked the back of his head. “He is an invited guest in my home, and I will NOT tolerate you insulting, belittling or degrading him in ANY way!! You got that?? Is that CLEAR to you??”

 

Michael's arms flew protectively over his head, his only response a muttered 'ow'. InuYasha raised a brow at the scene, then pointedly dropped the hat onto his head with a glare.

 

“Where's Kagome?” he asked Selene, glancing toward the still swinging door.

 

“She's in her room, go talk to her. . . she needs you, Caleb. She's just confused right now.” Selene pushed open the door and nodded, directing him, “End of the hall.”

 

 

~o0o~

 

 

“Kagome. . .” came a muffled plea from outside her door. “Can I come in?”

 

Kagome sniffed and blotted at her eyes, then blew her nose. Tucking the well used tissue back into the box, she rose to open the door.

 

“Shit. . . I didn't mean to make you cry. . . I'll go and. . .” she opened the door and practically dove to wrap herself around his middle, “get your pictures. I've got to get Tetsusaiga anyway.” He held her close. This was how he preferred it, with her head nestled against his chest, and he was in no hurry to move. After a short time she pulled herself away from him, then grabbed his arm and yanked him through the door.

 

“In here, Dog-boy. . .” she demanded, closing and locking the door behind them. “Sit.” She pointed at the bed, and he complied, cringing slightly at the command.

 

“Kagome. . .” he started. She raised her hands up waving them crosswise in front of her.

 

“Just. . . Shut the fuck up and listen to what I have to say,” her head was down as she thought of how she was going to tell him what had to be said.

 

His brow shot up under his bangs at the sound of his own turn of phrase from the woman, and he too raised his hands. “Fine. . .” he then settled back onto the bed, removing his hat, to lean back on one elbow. He motioned for her to proceed.

 

She hesitated as she took in the sight of him, unable to get past how much he seemed to belong there, reclining on her bed. It took a little shake of her head and a deep breath to clear her mind.

 

“Ever since I was a little girl,” she began haltingly, “I've had this image in my mind . . . part of a fairytale my momma told me.” She paced in small steps, formulating her words. “He was a strong man, with a deep sense of honor . . . a real hero type, you know?” she watched for his acknowledgment. “The kind of guy that would gladly give his life to save a friend . . . He tried to hide it though, with his temper and a stubborn streak that was a mile wide,” she grinned and shook her head. “But, underneath it all, he was the sweetest, most gentle, devoted, loyal person. . . who ever lived. I think. . . ” She stopped for a moment, a far away look in her eyes, “secretly, I wished that he could be all mine, the image of him even invaded my dreams.”

 

“Kagome. . .” InuYasha sat up on the bed.

 

“Let me finish, damnit!” she held up a hand, then dropped it. “As I grew up, all the boys I met were compared to this image, and all of them failed miserably. I have waited. . . my whole life I have waited, to find a man who could possibly meet those standards. . .” She looked at him pointedly, “And now I find I have come face to face with the real deal. . . never once did I think that the man that I fall in love with, could be in love with someone else. . . and I am so very jealous of her. . . jealous of all she had with you. . .” her brow furrowed, “and a little bit angry for her too, like I would feel for a dear friend who was cheated. . .”

 

“What are you talking about??” He started to rise from the bed, his ears flattening, “Kagome is everything to me, YOU are everything to me!”

 

“Ah, ah, ah.” she held up a hand, then pointed at the bed. “I'm not finished yet.”

 

“I don't see where you're going with this,” he muttered, assuming his reclining position.

 

“Every picture I have seen of Kagome, she was happy. . . beyond happy, she looked joyous. . . but why is it that she died? She traveled with you for years. . .” she laughed tersely. “Hell for most of her life! You say that she was everything to you, yet you never took her as your mate?”

 

“Whoa . . . hold it right there.” At this he did get up. “Who told you that?”

 

“Does it matter who told me? She never carried your mark, that's why she died. Isn't it?”

 

“Do you even know what you are talking about? Kagome . . .” he moved toward her. “Is this what Kouga told you? He knows NOTHING.”

 

“InuYasha, did you or did you not take Higurashi Kagome as your mate?” her voice had become shaky, her throat constricting.

 

“She was my best friend, my lover, in every sense of the word. . .” he looked at her helplessly.

 

“But you never marked her. . .” it was more a statement than a question, as she sat on the bed reaching for the tissue box. He sat next to her, putting an arm around her shoulder.

 

“That's what all this is about . . . What did Kouga tell you, exactly?” he asked gently.

 

“He said a lot of things, most of them not so nice. He said you were ignorant and had no one to tell you how things should be done, and that's why Kagome died.” She wiped at her eyes. “He said he didn't tell you because he wanted her for himself, and kept hoping she would leave you.”

 

“Well, that part is probably true . . . but there's something he didn't tell you,” he kissed her hair. “The mating . . . for youkai is all instinct, Kagome. Even a hanyou runs on instinct when it comes to that. Its not something that is planned out. Its not some strange ceremony. The mark is part of it,sure. That's the final bond. Kagome and I had everything short of that, because she stopped me . . . every damn time she stopped me . . . She had her reasons. And they were good ones. . . and I honored her decision.”

 

“Did you know that her life could have been extended by it?”

 

“It could have gone either way, hers lengthened or mine shortened . . .” he sighed. “It wouldn't have mattered to me. Just so long as I was with her. But believe me when I tell you, we were bonded,” he raised her chin to look into her eyes. “I have waited a long time to find you.”

 

Kagome studied his expression for any hint of deception. There was none. Only open honesty and so much love. Her own concerned expression dissolved to one of wonder. How it could be, she wasn't sure. She wasn't sure she cared how. This was InuYasha, and he had come for her. That alone was enough.

 

“Sally says that we're soul mates. . .” she whispered.

 

“I think Sally is very wise. . .” his kiss was feather soft, and didn't last nearly long enough in her opinion. “This time, Koi. . . I think we should do things the right way.”

 

“The. . . right way?”

 

“Yeah. . . I know you well enough to know that you want. . . what did you call it? 'The real deal'. You aren't competing with anyone. It's you, Kagome . . . and only you. And I'll wait until you are sure of that.” He sat back, looking thoughtful. “The monk seems to think I am trying to win you over with my brother's wealth. All I really have is. . . me. I hope that's good enough for you.”

 

“Good enough?” she asked in amazement. How could he possibly think that he wouldn't be good enough? “I feel like I've been waiting at the airport for 24 years waving a sign with 'InuYasha' written on it. . .” She grinned at the confused look on his face as he tried to visualize that. “I've waited my whole life for you, and so far you have surpassed all of my expectations. A real 'dream come true'”

 

She wrapped her arms around his neck, and drew him into a kiss like she had only dreamed about. Little nips on his lips, which he returned, then a soft parting and soon tongues were exploring each other. Tentatively at first, then more boldly. Kagome found his fangs positively fascinating as she reached up one hand to trace the lines of an ear.

 

A soft knocking at the door interrupted them.

 

“Is the puppy still hungry?” came a muffled inquiry from Selene. “Pizza is here, better get it while it's still hot.”

 

 

“Shit . . . See what you've started??” InuYasha groaned, then kissed her one more time before grabbing his hat. “I'm starvin'!”

 

 

 

~ooO0Ooo~