InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ For Richer or Poorer ❯ First Day on the Job ( Chapter 8 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

(A/N: Okay peoples, I just put chapter seventeen up on “Sesshoumaru, a Human?” like two days ago, and no one has reviewed for it. I decided that since I get so many reviews for this story, I might as well update it as well. So, without further ado, the story goes on!)
 
Disclaimer: Nope.
 
 
 
Chapter Seven
First Day on the Job
 
 
 
“Good morning, Sesshoumaru-otousan!” Rin said cheerfully, joining her adoptive father at the breakfast table. Sesshoumaru nodded his greeting to her as he sipped his coffee and turned the page of his newspaper. It seemed like his stocks were going up, but so were Naraku's. He didn't even look away from the news as he heard Jaken pound on Kagome's door, yelling for her to get up. He calmly reached for the sugar as Jaken's screams echoed through the house. A door slammed, and then all was silent…
 
Rin began giggling as Jaken limped into the kitchen with a few noticeable bumps on his head.
 
“That woman is the devil,” he was muttering to himself. “Satan incarnate with a gun.”
 
A few minutes later, Kagome stumbled into the kitchen and laid her head on the table.
 
“Morning, Kagome-chan!” Rin chirped. Kagome lifted her head and blinked blearily at the happy, energetic, awake child before her.
 
“Rin-chan, how can you be this hyper in the morning?” she asked, her voice husky and unused. Sesshoumaru tried to ignore it. He could fully understand how tired the detective was feeling this morning. Last night he stayed awake, tossing and turning, thinking about the very woman sitting across from him who was trying not to fall asleep again. The conversation he had overheard with her mother played over and over in his mind, as did his conversation with Inuyasha. If everyday with her brought him this much confusion and frustration, he would hate to see what he would look like by the end of the week. And it seemed like he confused her just as much as she confused him. He smirked inwardly. She had admitted that she was attracted to him last night, and he was sure to have some fun with that newfound knowledge.
 
The phone rang next to the table, and he picked it up, immediately frowning when he heard the voice on the other end. He wordlessly handed the phone to the sleepy detective. “It's Inuyasha.”
 
She put the phone to her ear without lifting her head from her arms. “Yeah?...No…Sure…yes…Of course I'm awake, baka!” she said, finally sitting up straight. “I was only giving you one word answers because I don't want to spend anymore time than I have to talking to you!” Inuyasha must have apologized and said something appropriate, because suddenly her eyes softened, which caused Sesshoumaru's hand to tighten on his coffee mug. Of course…there was also the obvious love his brother and the miko shared that caused him frustration.
 
“So, are you ready for today?” Inuyasha was asking.
 
“No,” she replied honestly. “I have no clue what I'm doing.”
 
“You'll be fine. Just pay attention to your surroundings and act like a woman in love. That should be enough.”
 
“Right.” Should be enough. Her and Sesshoumaru could barely last an hour without snipping at each other…how were they supposed to last the whole day? She glanced at the TaiYoukai who was taking another sip of his coffee and calmly eating his breakfast. He seemed so cool and collected, wearing an immaculate black suit with his long hair tied back in a low ponytail, while she knew she looked horrible with her messy hair and bleary eyes.
 
“Well, anyway, just do your best,” Inuyasha said, breaking her out of her thoughts. “Miroku's starting today too.”
 
“He is? How did he get a job at Naraku's company so soon?”
 
“We made him a pretty good resume, and his skills are immaculate…”
 
“A woman hired him, didn't she?” she said as he trailed off. She heard his chuckle.
 
“Yeah, for once his charm worked. He'll be working on their computer systems, and hopefully gain some information there. I'll check in later with you and make sure you haven't killed Sesshoumaru.”
 
“Detective, get dressed,” Sesshoumaru said suddenly. “You are going to make me late.”
 
She clenched her teeth. “No promises.”
 
“Good luck, Kagome,” Inuyasha said, having heard what Sesshoumaru said to her. “Put my brother on now.
 
“Fine,” she said, and practically threw the phone at Sesshoumaru. “He wants to talk to you.” With that, she grabbed an apple and stalked out of the room.
 
“What?” Sesshoumaru said as soon as he picked up the phone.
 
“I guess you don't like me talking to her for too long, huh?” Inuyasha said teasingly. Sesshoumaru's teeth clenched as he realized Inuyasha was right. He had become increasingly annoyed every time Kagome's laughed had reached his ears, and knowing that his brother was the one to cause it made him hurry her off the phone.
 
“I don't know what you're talking about. You should know how long she takes to get ready, and I didn't want to be late on her first day.”
 
“Did you realize that when you lie, your voice becomes more flat?”
 
He hung up the phone as he heard Inuyasha's laughter flow from the earpiece.
 
 
 
&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&
 
 
 
Kagome rushed through her shower and make-up, noticing that it was easier to put on the stuff every time she did it. She opened her closet doors and looked at the multitude of suits that stared back at her. She must have stood there for a good five minutes before she burst out, “Oh, for heavens sake, it's not that hard to pick out a suit!” She closed her eyes and reached out. Plucking out the first hanger she felt, she opened her eyes and stared at the vivid red suit she had tried on at Kagura's.
 
“Kagura said that if you wear red, it would give you more confidence. Looks like I did a good job in picking then, because I need all of the confidence I need.” She put on the suit and eyed her hair critically. What would be the easiest way to put it up without having it look trashy? She just decided to put it in a simple French braid, mentally thanking her mother for teaching her how to do it when she was a little girl. She pulled a few strands out to frame her face, and put on a pair of strappy black heels, thankfully with a lower heel than the ones she had worn to the opera. Taking one last look in the mirror, she took a deep breath. “Here goes nothing.”
 
Rin was in the foyer putting on her backpack when Kagome walked downstairs. “Wow, Kagome-chan, you look great!”
 
“Thank you, Rin,” Kagome said, flushing lightly. Looks like she did do a good job picking the suit!
 
“Rin!” Jaken yelled, causing both girls to wince. “Let's go, or you'll be late!” Rin rolled her eyes at the little toad and then grinned at Kagome. “Bye!” She gave a wave, and both of them were gone, leaving her alone.
 
“Ready, detective?” Sesshoumaru's voice came from behind her, causing her to whirl around. His eyes tried not to wander over her form, but it was very difficult. He focused instead on a spot above her head, ignoring her scent as well as it drifted over him.
 
“I guess so,” she said, looking at her feet.
 
He looked at her face then, and saw her insecurity. Damn it…
 
“Are you really that scared?” he asked in an offhand manner, knowing that he would either really hurt her feelings, or make her angry. He preferred the latter, and that's exactly what he got. Her head snapped up, eyes flashing.
 
“I'm not afraid!” she said, stomping to the door and turning to face him, one eyebrow raised as she had seen him to so many times before. “Are we going or not?” She saw him smirk, and realized that he had done that on purpose. “Mou, you're annoying!”
 
He just grinned mentally and joined her at the door. Waiting outside for them was a limo, and Kagome forgot all her anger with him at the sight of it. “You go in this to work everyday?”
 
“Don't just stand there and gape, detective. Get in.”
 
Grumbling, she did as he told her, but she couldn't keep at it long when she realized just how big the limo was. She sat next to Sesshoumaru on the plush seats, and barely kept from bouncing in excitement. “This is your first time in a limo, I gather?” He said dryly.
 
She nodded, her eyes sparkling in wonder. He was struck by just how much he had it better than her. He took a lot of things for granted while she was acting like it was the best thing in the world to just ride in a limo, for Christ's sake! He just sat there, watching her for the whole ride into the city, explaining from time to time what each of the little buttons did. He was secretly proud of every smile he saw, knowing that these little things made her happy. It was the same feeling he got when he gave Rin a present, or just a word of encouragement. It was such a small thing…yet it meant the world.
 
Kagome was actually a little surprised at how nice Sesshoumaru was being to her. She wondered why, as he patiently explained to her how to make the sunroof go down, until a thought struck her. He was feeling pity for her. It was the only reason why at certain times during the ride, she saw his eyes soften for just a moment. He knew she never had the luxuries he had, and probably never would, so he would indulge her. The sparkle in her eyes gradually died down as she realized what an idiot she probably looked like.
 
He noticed her excitement ebb away and a cold hardness seep into her eyes and body, and frowned. “What's wrong?”
 
“Nothing, I'm just trying to get into character,” she said aloofly, and his frown got deeper. He didn't like when she looked so different, so cold. He far preferred her fiery temper than this ice queen that was sitting across from him. He was slightly taken aback at how fast she could transition from one to the other.
 
“What do you mean?” he asked, sitting back and crossing his arms across his chest.
 
“I'm sure that the fiancée of Sesshoumaru Taiinu wouldn't act the way I was just acting. I mean, it's just a limo,” she said with a fake laugh. “Seeing as how we're almost there, I might as well change personas.”
 
He silently considered her and her words as the city passed them by. If he did actually have a fiancée, would she really act like that? Cold, aloof, untouchable…he would want her to act like that, wouldn't he? Who needs a woman who would fight him tooth and nail every way, talk to him in a way that no one else would dare to, and frustrate him to no end? Certainly not him…but just as seeing her all dressed up rather than in a shirt and jean annoyed him, so did seeing her act so remote.
 
The limo pulled up in front of his building, and he noticed some magazine photographers and reporters there. Vultures... As Japan's most successful business man, most powerful demon, and eligible bachelor, he had to live in the spotlight a certain amount of time. At times like these, he hated it.
 
Before he alighted from the vehicle he turned to Kagome once more. Although he knew he shouldn't, he had to tell her one thing. “You may be right in the fact that most of the people that associate with me wouldn't get so excited over little things, but I never expected you to believe in stereotypes, Kagome. You should do what you want to do, and act the way you want to act. Nothing less.”
 
Her mouth almost gaped. He seemed to be encouraging her and chastising her at the same time. And he had called her Kagome for the first time so casually. Before she could say anything back, he took her hand and practically lifted her from the vehicle. “Smile pretty for the cameras,” he murmured in her ear and kept his arm around her waist. She hadn't noticed the reporters outside the building, and she shot him a glare while she put on a bright smile.
 
They swiftly walked from the limo to the front door, dodging questions and comment from the reporters. Finally, Sesshoumaru stopped at the front door with Kagome beside him and turned to face the people. “Ladies and gentlemen, Ms. Higurashi and I will be more than happy to field any questions at the end of the day. Right now, I'm afraid we have to go to work. Good day.”
 
The door closed behind them, and Kagome let out a little sigh of relief. Sesshoumaru took her hand and led her to the elevators, ignoring the curious stares from the receptionists there. They were both silent as the elevator carried them up to the floor that housed his office, and Kagome felt eerie when she realized the last time she had been there, it was to find out about this case. God, what would happen to her this time? The doors opened to reveal that Sesshoumaru's secretary was already there and waiting for orders. Kagome was quickly introduced to Shiori and Sesshoumaru requested that she show Kagome around the building to get herself situated. Shiori thought that this was a wonderful idea and immediately grabbed poor Kagome's arm and dragged her off.
 
Sesshoumaru almost chuckled at the shocked and panicked look on Kagome's face before he became serious and walked into his office. He picked up the phone and quickly dialed a number. “Jakotsu, Bankotsu, come up here. There is something we need to discuss.”
 
Both guards were in his office less than two minutes later and staring at their boss expectantly. Sesshoumaru sighed as he thought about how to begin. “I'm sure you've heard the news of my recent engagement to Ms. Higurashi.”
 
“Yes, sir,” Bankotsu said respectfully. Jakotsu sighed dramatically. “I think it's great. You've been alone for so long, Sesshoumaru. I was always wondering why you never took a mate. I mean, after all, you're to die for and-“ He shut up as Bankotsu nudged him sharply in the side. “I mean, congratulations, sir.”
 
“It's not real,” Sesshoumaru said, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Ms. Higurashi is a Detective with the Tokyo police and is conducting an investigation against Naraku, and her association with me is just a cover so she can gain information.”
 
“A detective?” Bankotsu said.
 
“Wait,” Jakotsu exclaimed. “Was she the woman that came in with your adorable brother last week?”
 
“Yes,” Sesshoumaru said. “She's here today under the guise of learning the business. Keep an eye on her and make sure no one harasses her, and help her in anyway you can.”
 
“Of course, sir.” Bankotsu said, but Jakotsu just had a thoughtful expression on his face.
 
The door suddenly slammed open, and Kagome barged in without noticing the two other men. “Sesshoumaru, you bastard, I swear to Kami if I have to deal with another perky person this early in the morning, I'll-“ She noticed the two men looking at her in shock, and cut herself off. Sesshoumaru smirked as she tried to look innocent. “I mean, why didn't you tell me we had guests?”
 
“You didn't ask, dear,” he said, before he chuckled. “Do not worry, Detective. These two are in charge of security, and I told them to help in any way they could with the investigation.”
 
“Oh,” Kagome said, sounding dumb. “Well, you could have told me you were going to tell them.” She walked up to Bankotsu, holding out a hand. “I'm Detective Kagome Higurashi. I believe we met last week.”
 
“Yes,” Bankotsu said, taking her delicate hand in his. “My name is Bankotsu.”
“My name is Jakotsu,” the other one said, holding out a hand. Kagome took his hand, and looked at him in confusion when he said, “Forgive me.”
 
“For wha-“ she started to say, but he took the arm he still had a hold of and twisted it behind her back and put an arm to her throat. Out of pure instinct, Kagome kicked her heel back to hit him in between the legs, and brought her elbow up to his temple. Using the momentum of that hit, she hooked her leg around his and pushed him back. In one smooth motion, she had her gun pulled out of her back holster and pointed it at his head, the whole encounter lasting two seconds.
 
“Okay, you pass!” the man on the floor said brightly, causing Kagome to look at him like he was crazy.
 
“Jakotsu,” Bankotsu yelled. “What the hell are you doing?”
 
The man named Jakotsu got up slowly as Kagome followed him cautiously with her gun. Sesshoumaru never said a word, keeping his eyes narrowed on Jakotsu.
 
“You said she was a detective, trying to nap Naraku. All of us knows how powerful he is, and I just wanted to see if she could handle herself.” Kagome looked at him intensly, judging his words. Finally she lowered her gun, and put it back in the holster.
 
“Think you could have found a better way to do it?” she asked dryly. Jakotsu grinned sheepishly.
 
“The only way was to catch you off guard.”
 
“Did I meet your expectations?”
 
He rolled his jaw and winced. “Yeah, that's a nasty kick you have too.”
 
“Thanks,” she said grinning. “I think you're going to have a black eye. I saw a refridgerator in the break room on my tour. Let's go get you some ice.” She led the way out of the room with Jakotsu happily following her.
 
“I'm so sorry, Sesshoumaru-sama,” Bankotsu said, looking embarrassed. “You know how Jakotsu can get.”
 
“I know,” Sesshoumaru said. “Leave now.” Bakotsu hurried to comply, knowing the only reason why Jakotsu wasn't dead at the moment full of Sesshoumaru's poison is because Sesshoumaru trusted them.
 
Sesshoumaru stared at his closed door and let out a deep breath. He knew his men would never turn against him, but that one moment when Kagome was vulnerable…he almost lost it. He started to stand up to pace the room and wait until Kagome returned, but looked down in surprise. In his desk, there were ten deep gouges in the wood…claw marks he made to stop himself from ripping out Jakotsu's throat.
 
Damn…he thought.
 
 
 
&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&
 
 
 
Miroku walked cheerily into Naraku's building and whistled low. Not in admiration of the extravagant lobby, or the sheer size of the room…but by the fact that it was almost completely occupied by women. I love my job, he thought. He walked right up to the receptionist there and gave her a charming smile. “Excuse me, miss. It's my first day here, and I'm a little lost.”
 
“What's your name, sir?” she asked, never looking up from her computer. Miroku frowned. Obviously, she wasn't interested. He grabbed her hand and held it up to his lips, smiling devilishly. “Miroku.”
 
She snatched her hand back with a glare and typed something on her computer. “Go up to the 42nd level and meet a woman named Sango. She's to be supervising you.”
 
“Thank you,” he said, knowing a lost cause was a lost cause. That lady was definitely a lost cause. But maybe this Sango woman wasn't. He joined a crowded elevator and stood still as the doors closed. An attractive young woman with dark hair pulled up into a high ponytail stood in front of him, and he smiled. Her suit fit her perfectly, filling all the right curves on her seemingly very athletic body. He grinned as he got an idea. The elevator began to move, causing everyone to adjust their balance for the split second. Using a trick he had used a million times before, he lost his balance enough to “accidently” touch her derriere.
 
She was smarter than he thought however, because when the elevator stopped on his floor, she “accidently” lost her balance enough to stomp her foot on his toe, causing him to miss getting off. It was embarrassing enough having to ride back down one floor, with everyone looking at him hopping up and down on one foot. Finally, he was able to get off on the appropriate floor and talk to the receptionist there.
 
“Hi, I'm looking for a Miss Sango,” he said. The woman pointed him down the hall.
 
“Her office is the fourth to your left,” she said, and turned back to her work. He silently followed her directions and knocked on the appropriate door.
 
“Come in,” a feminine voice answered, and Miroku opened the door.
 
“You!” Both exclaimed at the same time, the woman with a scowl and Miroku with a wide grin.
 
“What are you doing here?” she demanded.
 
“You are Sango, I presume?” he said, and waited for her to nod warily. “I'm Miroku. I just got hired to work here.”
 
She stared at him. “You're the one here to work on computers?”
 
He nodded. “Well this is just great,” she said, standing up and gathering her papers. She looked him up and down before she sighed. “I guess I should show you around then.”
 
“Here, let me get the door for you,” he said, opening it gallantly and allowing her to pass before him. He followed her every move with his eyes, but she whirled on him before he could get a good look. His startled eyes met her blazing ones. She looks pretty in pink eyeliner…he thought before she began to speak.
 
“Listen, buddy, I know what you're trying to pull, so no funny stuff all right?”
 
“Wouldn't dream of it, Miss Sango,” he said, and watched with a smile on his face as she huffed off ahead of him.
 
I really love my job…
 
 
 
&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&
 
 
 
Who knew that being so bored could make you so tired? It was almost the end of the day, and all Kagome had done was listen to Sesshoumaru as he made phone calls and worked on his computer. No meetings had been scheduled for that day, and there was nothing for her to do except establish her cover. That meant that whenver she was outside of the office with Sesshoumaru, she had to act like a loving fiancé, and that was hard enough considering that the man drove her crazy. The only fun she had had that day was lunch with Bankotsu and Jakotsu. Sesshoumaru had other matters to attend to and wasn't able to join them, but they kept her entertained enough, causing her to constantly laugh at Jakotsu's antics.
 
But now, she was ready to go home…back to Sesshoumaru's home. She sighed from her place on the small couch in his office and dragged herself up to go get a drink of water from the break room. Sesshoumaru barely looked up from his paperwork as she went. The break room was empty as she got a glass from the cupboards and turned on the tab. She finished half the glass before she turned around, and nearly dropped it.
 
“You!”
 
 
 
&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&
 
 
 
Sesshoumaru sighed as he rubbed his eyes. Maybe bringing the detective here was a bad idea. Or, maybe he should actually give her something to do during the day, that way he wouldn't be trapped in the office with her scent teasing his senses until he was about to go batty. Damned woman couldn't even leave him alone while she was gone! No, even thoughts of her still remained after she left. He had barely been able to concentrate on his work with her right there.
 
He was tired, and it was a few minutes until it was time to go home, so he stood up to gather his “fiancée”. He paused as a scent hit him, and caused him to nearly growl.
 
“Kouga.”
 
 
 
&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&
 
 
 
“Kouga!” Kagome exclaimed, and the wolf demon grinned.
 
“You remember my name, I'm touched.”
 
“What are you doing here?” she asked.
 
“I work here, remember?” he said, walking towards her. “What I didn't know was that you were going to be working here.” He grabbed her hands and held them close to his chest. “I'm glad I came to work today.”
 
Kagome started to feel really uneasy. This guy couldn't take a hint, even after Sesshoumaru had talked to him. Why did he have to come now, towards the end of the day. He was probably afraid to face Sesshoumaru until the last moment. Suddenly, she relaxed, causing him to look at her with slight surprise.
 
“I'm sure Sesshoumaru is really glad you came to work today too,” Kagome said sweetly. “Right, darling?” Kouga turned slightly pale and whirled around to see Sesshoumaru standing in the doorway, frowning.
 
“Wolf,” he said in a voice that even Kagome had never heard him use. “Remove your hands from her person before I remove them for you.”
 
Kouga dropped her hands as if they burned him and Kagome walked calmly to Sesshoumaru. He seemed really tense and angry, and she didn't want to do anything that ticked him off. “Kagome?” he said, almost making her jump. “If you have anything you want to bring with you home, go get it. We'll be leaving soon.”
 
“Okay,” she said, touching his arm reassuringly as she passed him. She didn't know why, but she felt like it would calm him down.
 
It did…a little. Sesshoumaru turned back to Kouga. Kouga tried to stand up straight, but failed. Touching another youkai's woman was bad enough, but for the Inu clan, it was one of the worst crimes. Kouga couldn't seem to help it though…he just seemed to be drawn to Kagome. Damn it, he thought. Why did Sesshoumaru get to see her first? He looked back at the TaiYoukai, wondering what was going to happen. Sesshoumaru just growled once at him, causing him to jump, and then walked slowly out of the room. Kouga followed a few minutes later, having to calm himself down.
 
I do believe I've just been warned
 
 
 
&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&&&&&&&&&&&&& &&&
 
 
 
Okay, another one bites the dust. I got 40 reviews from last chapter…let's see if we can beat that! Go team! (okay, I'm just a little tired.) Anyway I'm doing a little poll thingy about this story, so (ahem) ATTENTION ALL READERS!!! WHEN YOU REVIEW, AND PLEASE, ALL OF YOU REVIEW, TELL ME IF YOU ARE A BOY OR A GIRL. I WANT TO FIND OUT HOW MANY GUYS ARE READING THIS COMPARED TO GIRL. AND, TELL ME (AS A GUY, OR AS A GIRL) WHAT APPEALS TO YOU ABOUT THE STORY? THIS WILL HELP ME WRITE LATER CHAPTERS, SO I NEED INPUT PEOPLE!!!!!!
 
 
Okay, and as another reminder, those on MEDIAMINER.ORG, please e-mail me reviews. The site is being a ditz and not showing me my reviews properly. Just title it, “Fanfic” or something like that, and I will reply to you. My e-mail address is: TheAuthoressMujitsu@yahoo.com
 
And, thanks a whole bunch to whoever reviewed on A Single Spark. You guys rock.
 
Reviewer responses:
 
YukiKaza from FF.net: No, I decided to not have Kagura work for Naraku in this story. She always ends up betraying someone in all the other fanfics, and I want her to just be Kagome and Sesshoumaru's friend in this one. She also provided comic relief. Thanks for the review, and I hope I answered your question! Review again!
 
LtSonya from A Single Spark: Thank you, I really tried to bring a lot of emotions into the last chapter and thank you for noticing it. Please review again!
 
Enchanting Breeze from A Single Spark: Thanks for your review. I hope you liked this chapter! Thanks again!
 
REDEYES from FF.net: I don't know how far I'm going to make him go to win her love. Sesshoumaru is a difficult character, to analyze and to write about. I hope I meet everyone's expectations.
 
Fan of Yours from FF.net: You are so becoming one of my favorite reviewers! Thank you so much for your compliments. When someone tells me that they almost cried, that means I did my job. I tried to keep everyone in character, but it's really hard, but I'm so happy you noticed that. Please review again, my friend!
 
Kjinuyasha from ff.net: thank you, and Luv Ya back at you! LOL!
 
Kagomeandinuyasha4ever from ff.net: Hola! Thank you for your long review, they are my favorites. I hope I made things a little clearer of what Sesshoumaru was thinking for you. I'm glad you like the way the characters are acting. Thanks again, and review again!
 
Amy from A Single Spark: thanks for your review. Short but sweet.
 
Fairie Mistress from ff.net: Thank you and YOU rock for reviewing. Do it again!
 
Erik and Fae from ff.net: You are becoming a favorite of mine just because of your personality, or personalities I should say. I hope the scene with Kouga made you laugh. I'm also glad I got your identities cleared up. Review again!!!
 
Leena-Faye from ff.net: thank you, thank you, thank you.
 
Justified Justification from ff.net: Ha, I like your name! thank you so much for your wonderful comments. You made me feel better about myself as a writer. Thanks again and please review again.
 
Theblackdemoness: Hiya. Thank you for being so understanding about the lemons thing. I don't know how much citrus I would be comfortable writing, but I'll do my best!
 
Angee: As always, I always love your reviews. Talk to you soon!
 
Sammy from A Single Spark: You're comments had me cracking up! I hope I delivered!
 
Fluffychick15 from ff.net: Yes, I did have a good fourth of July, thanks for asking. I hope you liked this chapter!
 
Gopher2806 from ff.net: You know, my roommate was actually reading those books, and she said they were really good. It's always nice to be compared to an actual author, so I thank you a bunch!
 
Esie from A Single Spark: thank you for your review, short and sweet!
 
Ringurl107 from ff.net: I have no clue when Naraku is going to make his move, but I think it will be soon. Yeah, Inuyasha is going to have a lot of fun being matchmaker…(grins evilly)
 
Evableau: thank you for your review, and here are the answers to your questions:
1. Will you address why Inuyasha only love Kagome as a friend?
I didn't have a set reason in mind, but I figure it's because she accepted him for who he is, and he will love her forever because of that.
 
2. Will you bring back Kouga, but in a better light, to spice things up? So far, he's the only one that has managed to make Sess jealous in a "stay away from her, she's mine" kinda way!
Yeah, I know, but I love Sess in that mode. I will try to make him into better of a good guy!
 
3. Is Naraku involved in the death of Kagome's dad?
No, he's not. Maybe I'm just lazy, but it's too hard to try and fit him into that. Thanks for the review!
 
Pimp Troyce from ff.net: Man, your review was awesome. So much encouragement and compliments. From the bottom of my heart, thank you SO much!
 
Lyn from ff.net: okay, thanks for the review!
 
Moonwave: Hiya girlie! Thank you for your review (both of them). You're review for this story was really funny. I was cracking up at work!
 
Good!! From ff.net: thanks for the review!
 
Secret Goddess of the Moon from ff.net: I don't care how short reviews are, I just like getting them! Thank you for yours!
 
Ness from A Single Spark: Thank you for your review! Review again!
 
Falling Tenshi from ff.net: I hope you got my review for your story! Thank you for reviewing and I hope you do it again!
 
Roses Petal from ff.net: Thank you for telling me the correct name and how to spell it. Your review was really nice, too! Please update again!
 
Kawaiikitty from ff.net: I won't give up on this story, don't worry. It's my favorite!
 
Kathleen from A Single Spark: You know, I started thinking about the workers comp after I updated last time, but I don't know a lot about that stuff. If you have any suggestions on how to make that fit, please tell me! Thank you for your review!
 
Wilby from A Single Spark: Thank you so much! As I've said before, Sesshoumaru is the hardest to keep in character, and I know I slip sometimes. Thanks for your review!
 
Arcander from ff.net: Good god, you made me laugh so hard! Do it again, do it again! Just joking…I think. Anyway, thanks for cheering me up with that review. I think Sesshoumaru likes Ice cream, but in future chapters, I'm going to have something happen that makes him dislike it very, very much. Mwuahahahahaah!
 
Amori Kuwabara from MM.org: Thank you so much, your review was nice and long! I have a lot of ideas about this story, and I thank you that you like it so much that you review. Keep it up!
 
Jin Ryu from mm.org: Yeah, Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru's fight was just over tetsusaiga. And thank you so much for your compliments, they really pump me up. I write in my spare time, whenever I can. I work 10 hours a day, so it's kind of hard to keep up, but I know that I HATE it when authors update months later, and I don't want to be like that. Thanks again!
 
Crazy-punk-gurl from mm.org: thank you, thank you. I know, with Sesshoumaru being jealous and Inu playing matchmaker, I think I put too much on our poor Kagome. But, she's a tough girl, she can handle it. Thanks again!
 
Mistress Maru: Hiya lady! Thanks for reviewing. I had fun the other night! Hope to do it again sometime. Thanks for your compliments about the characters…I try, I really do. LOL! Review again please!
 
Midoriko-chan from mm.org: thanks for the review, and I hope you review again!!!
 
Okay, ladies and gents, don't forget to participate in my poll, and until next time…
 
Ja ne,
Mujitsu