InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ For the Love of a Child ❯ Hope for InuYasha ( Chapter 18 )

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

 

 

 

A month has passed since InuYasha had last seen Kagome.  Since then, due to all the wedding arrangements being made as well as trying to keep both his fiancée and her uncle happy, InuYasha comes to work early each day exhausted.  He feels so depressed, so disgusted with his life, not even his music can soothe his troubled spirit.

 

 

 

Sitting behind his desk, the hanyou, wearing loose jeans and t-shirt, is staring longingly at the phone beside him, slightly smiling while wondering what his fair maiden could be doing at that moment and if he should call her.  The memory of his last encounter with Kagome enters his mind and the small smile slowly slips from his features, replaced with a frown.  “Keh!”  (Why am I so fucking worried about Kagome for?  Haven’t I got enough troubles to deal with?  Certainly, don’t need that wench to add onto them.  Besides, that wench is long gone now, and I’ve still got KiKyo!)

 

 

 

Yawning, InuYasha stretches and scratches the back of his head.  He leans over to pull his bottle of whiskey from the bottom drawer of his desk, straightens and stares disgustingly at all the paperwork in front of him. 

 

 

 

“Aw, damn it!  How the hell did I get so fucking behind on this shit?  I’ll be here all day just catching up on the paperwork alone,” he says angrily.  “Last time it was this bad was when I stayed out all night at the club getting wasted.”  InuYasha smirks.  “Keh!”  (Man, what a party that was.  Got so fucking wasted that night, Kouga and Jak had to carry me home.  And KiKyo, she got super pissed about having demons in our apartment.  Had to listen to her bitching for a whole week.)

 

 

 

“Come to think of it, when was the last time I’d partied anyway?  Two… three weeks maybe?  Keh!  Fucking rules.  I can’t do this and I can’t do that.  Why do all these fucking rules only pertain to me anyway, when KiKyo can do whatever, she wants without any backlash from anybody.  It’s like I’m caged before the ceremony even begins.”

 

 

 

InuYasha picks up a couple of the invoices staring at them while scratching his head.  (No sense in bitching about it though.  It is what it is.  Man, I hate the thought of getting married to KiKyo.  And she’s acting all anxious about it to.  Pushing up the wedding date, only doing what she wants.  Well, what about what I want?  I’m giving up my damn life ain’t I?  Losing my freedom.  And for what?  A home and children?  Hell no.  It only means I’ll be saddled with that bitch forever!  Shit!  Where’s my fucking happiness in that…my contentment?  I’m entitled to all that, ain’t I?  Probably not.  I’m a half demon.  We get all the leftovers.  And nothing good ever comes from it.  Still, not so long ago, I almost had my happiness…but that shit was taken away from me.)  InuYasha pulls the cork from the bottle, lifts it up in the air and smirks.  “Here’s to…what should I be toasting to, today, huh?”  InuYasha lowers his bottle on his desk.  (Must be something out there.  What about toasting Kagome’s happiness?  Nah, why the hell should I?  Kagome ain’t mine.  It’s not her smile I’ll see as my damn fiancée walks down that aisle toward me, or see her standing beside me at the altar.  No.  The bitch will be standing with that fucking bastard.  I’d just be lying through my fucking teeth, toasting to Kagome’s happiness like that, especially since my happiness won’t be included in it.) 

 

 

 

“Oh, what the hell.”  He again raises his bottle.  “Here’s to…whatever!”  InuYasha downs a couple of large gulps of the dark red liquid, feeling the burning sensation down along his throat into his stomach.  He licks and smacks his lips.  “Ah, that sure was a nice kick in the ass.  Nothing like good ole demon whiskey to help me forget my troubles.”

 

 

 

InuYasha looks over, noticing the small blinking red light on his answering machine.  (Kagome,) he thought.  Did she…  Maybe it didn’t work out with that bastard, after all.  There might still be a chance for me after all.  Better than nothing.)  InuYasha pushes the play button, to listen to his messages.  He then reaches over picking up the phone’s receiver and calls up his voicemail, hoping against hope, Kagome was truly lonely and is in need of him.  However, his hopes are quickly dashed.  Finding his messages and voicemail, only containing orders and possible upcoming appointments, InuYasha angrily growls, slamming the receiver down onto its cradle, grabbing his bottle and takes another large gulp.

 

 

 

“Damn it!”  He stares down at the bottle in his hand and a frown creases his forehead.  (It’s been four weeks now,) he thought miserably.  (Four fucking long ass weeks since I’d last heard from Kagome.  Why won’t she call?  Is she that fucking happy with the bastard that she’d forgotten my ass completely?  Thought I was important to her.  That we were friends and she cared for me.  So, where’s her fucking friendship now?!  Friends visit, don’t they, are supposed to talk or inquire about each other every once in a while?  Yet not one damn word, not so much as a peep from her since that day at the mall.  Is she ignoring me as some kind of payback for standing her up four weeks ago?  Kagome had to have been upset about it, but what could I do?  KiKyo seemed so fucking needy and bitchy, no way I could’ve gotten away from her.  Maybe she’s still pissed or something.)  The hanyou slightly shakes his head.  (No, Kagome’s an understanding woman, kind, caring and patient.  She’s not the sort of female who’d stay angry over something as insignificant as that.  Especially not after all this time.  Kagome’s bound to have forgiven me by now.  At least I hope she has.

 

 

 

Wish I knew if she’s alright and safe.  Knowing that much would alleviate a little of this damned uneasiness I’ve been feeling lately.)  InuYasha again looks down at the brownish-red bottle in his hand.  (Is Kagome jealous?  If she’d just stop being so damn stubborn and call me already, I’d explain what happened that week, why I didn’t show up like I said I would.  Maybe it’s not so much as her but the bastard she’s been seeing.  Maybe he’s jealous and stopped her from calling me.  Of course, it could be something simple like she’s just too scared to call, thinking I’d be angry if she did.  Keh!  Stupid woman.  How the hell can I be angry with Kagome for some shit like that, when Gods only know how much I really need her.  It makes no fucking sense.)  InuYasha slams his bottle on the desk.  (I need to see Kagome damn it, to know she’s well and truly safe.  And iremjnf Kagome should ever say she needs me, that she loves me as well, that’d be it.  Nothing will stop me from being with her.  I’d go to her in a heartbeat, and this damn farce of an engagement would finally be history.)

 

 

 

A few hours later a calmer InuYasha, finished with at least half his paperwork, is still sitting at his desk with an almost empty bottle of whiskey sitting next to him.  He is browsing through a parts catalog, in an effort to take his mind from his troubles.  He picks up and brings his bottle to his lips, when suddenly a strange sound reaches his ears.  The hanyou looks up just as the door to his office slams open and the wolf demon stumbles in, holding his sides, laughing.

 

 

 

“What the …?” asks the hanyou setting his bottle aside.  “What the hell’s gotten into you wolf?  You drunk?”

 

 

 

“Yash, you… you’ve just got…gotta come out here,” laughs Kouga.

 

 

 

“Why?” asks the hanyou rising up from his seat.  “Did something happen?”

 

 

 

“Can’t you hear it?” laughs the demon pointing toward the front of the garage.  “Man, it’s a damn miracle she made it here at all.”

 

 

 

The hanyou curious to see the object of his employee’s amusement follows Kouga out of his office, finding the rest of his mechanics standing around, staring while pointing toward the entrance of his garage.  “What the fuck’s going on out here?”  InuYasha turns to look toward the entrance as well.  His eyes widen at what he sees.  “What… the fuck… is that?”

 

 

 

Sitting in the garage entranceway is a large, rusting, orangish red, beaten-up old van.  Dents and scratches are seen in different places on the body, and one headlight’s missing.  The hood and passenger door looks to be different colors, as if someone had made an attempt to paint the thing and failed miserably.  The right front fender sadly droops, as if it had had a stroke at some point, and as the loud ticking engine continues to run and sputter, the whole vehicle vibrates as if it were on trembling legs attempting to climb the small incline into the building.

 

 

 

“What fucking bastard would be stupid enough to own that monstrosity?” questions Kouga smiling.

 

 

 

“Dunno,” replies Rishu with a slight shrug.  “The grim reaper, maybe.  Probably out looking for this thing right now!”

 

 

 

“Nah.  That bastard would be driving something flashier.  Not that eyesore,” replies Kouga.

 

 

 

“Maybe we should go find a walker for it,” whispers another employee snickering.”

 

 

 

“A walker?"

 

 

 

“Yeah.  It’s not getting any farther in here without one.”  The other mechanics laughs. 

 

 

 

“Any volunteers to work on it?” asks another employee.  Everyone looks to one mechanic in particular as if he’d just volunteered.

 

 

 

“Huh?”  The said mechanic looks at all the knowing faces surrounding him.  “Hey now, don’t look at me guys,” he replies shaking his head and backing up.  “I work on that thing; I’ll have nightmares for weeks.”

 

 

 

The strange vehicle gives one final hiss and visibly shakes.  Several employees quickly take several steps back, showing slight fear on their faces.

 

 

 

“It…it’s not gonna blow up on us, is it?” asks another mechanic worriedly.  “Maybe we should get our asses out of here.”

 

 

 

“Not me,” replies yet another mechanic stubbornly.  He crosses his arms, and stares warily at said vehicle.  “Just let it blow up.  When it does, I’ll be a rich man when I sue that bastard.”

 

 

 

There is a loud whooshing sound and the van becomes silent.  Then, with what sounds like a squeak and a groan, the driver’s door is forcefully pushed open.  InuYasha pushes his way to the front of the crowd and waits as the vehicle’s owner slides out.  He gives the hanyou a rather disgusted look while approaching him.  InuYasha smiles shaking his head.

 

 

 

“So, it’s you, Miroku,” asks InuYasha

 

 

 

“Yeah, it’s me alright,” replies Miroku sheepishly.  Kouga and Rishu, as well as a few other mechanics look at each other, surprised their employer would know such a person.

 

 

 

InuYasha nods toward the vehicle.  “So, is this yours, huh?  The old clunker you want me to look over?” 

 

 

 

“Yep,” replies Miroku.  “She’s the one alright.”

 

 

 

“You weren’t kidding about it needing repairs, were you?” observes InuYasha.  “I’m surprised it’s still running.”

 

 

 

“It’s not that bad, Inu…”  Miroku hears a few of the employees, snicker.  “Hey, don’t laugh guys.  That beauty there’s gotten me out of a lot of scrapes throughout the years.”  Miroku winks at the hanyou.  “Even some with my wife.  Which is the reason I’m here InuYasha.”

 

 

 

“Kind of figured that,” observes the hanyou still looking at the van.  “Looks like it’s been in a wreck recently.”

 

 

 

Miroku nods and again rubs the back of his head.  “Uh, yeah.  It was more of an accident though.  I hit a concrete post rather hard, while leaving the store the other day.  She looks kind of rough around the edges…”

 

 

 

“Kind of?” replies the hanyou skeptically.

 

 

 

“Well… she still runs at least.  Although her brakes are sort of shot which caused me to hit the post like I did.”

 

 

 

“Ask me, the whole van looks more than a little rough, Miroku.  She won’t have much in resale value even with repairs.  You sure, you want to fix this thing?”

 

 

 

“I’m sure, but…well my wife has a different opinion on the matter.  Thing is, InuYasha Sango was with me at the time of my little accident and said she’d finally had it.  Said we should just get rid of her and buy a new one.”

 

 

 

The hanyou smirks.  (Smart woman that Sango.)

 

 

 

“It started a heated argument between us of course.  I told Sango no way I was getting rid of this van.  So, Sango in her infinite wisdom… gave me a choice.  Said for me to either fix it, or sleep in it.  I’d rather sleep in my own bed, and remembering you were a mechanic I…well here I am.”

 

 

 

“Ya ask me you should just shoot her and put her out of her misery,” laughs the wolf hysterically.

 

 

 

“Yeah.” says Rishu snickering.  “We’ll even help ya!  I’m sure Yash has a gun around here somewhere.”

 

 

 

“Uh huh!” says the wolf snickering.  “We can even use his tetsusaiga!  One swing and…”

 

 

 

“That’s enough, Kouga,” says InuYasha sternly silencing all who stood around him.  He looks around at his confused employees.  “I don’t pay you guys to stand around like this, ya know.  You each got a damn job to do.  So, if you don’t want to see the fucking bread line, you’d better get your lazy asses in gear, and back to work.”  The small group quickly parts, returning to their projects.  All except Kouga and Rishu who are still staring at the hanyou strangely.

 

 

 

“What?!” asks the hanyou staring back at the wolf and human.  “You two deaf or something?  I said stop your damn gawking, and get back to work!”

 

 

 

“Can’t blame us for staring, Yasha?” says Rishu waving toward the vehicle in question.  “Take a good look at her.  Busted light…drooping fender, the engine’s so far gone it sounds like it’s about to lock up, not to mention he himself told us the brakes are worn out.”

 

 

 

“So?”

 

 

 

“That mess is a goner Yash and you know it.  Why she can’t even make it in here on her own power.”

 

 

 

“You got a point to this?”

 

 

 

“My point is she can’t be fixed, an accident just waiting to happen.  No one here wants to work on her.  This guy… bringing her here was just a big waste of his time.”

 

 

 

“And you’re not that stupid, Yash, says Kouga.  “You know lost cause when you see it, don’t ya?

 

 

 

“Lost cause, is she?” asks the hanyou angrily.

 

 

 

“Damn right,” Rishu replies.  “Even you of all people must see there’s no way she can be repaired.  At least not for the price he’d be willing to pay.  It’s gonna take a lot of time, money and effort to get this thing safe enough to be put back out on the road again.  So, I say get rid of this monstrosity from hell, and buy a new one.  It’d be cheaper on him in the long run.”

 

 

 

“I’m not getting rid of it,” says Miroku with anger in his voice.  “This van is very precious to me.”

 

 

 

“Sentimentality won’t save your ass if she blows up on ya,” says Rishu.  “You’ll only end up killing yourself and anyone else who’s stupid enough to ride with you.”

 

 

 

“Well, I think she’s still got a lot of life in her,” says Miroku defensively.

 

 

 

“Life?  Ha!  Face it, buddy, this heap’s had it.  It’s not even worth the money you’ll need to fix it.  The best you can do now is tow her out to the nearest junkyard for burial services.”

 

 

 

“You suddenly psychic Rishu? says the hanyou with a look of anger in his eyes.

 

 

 

“No I’m…”

 

 

 

“What about you, Kouga?  You psychic?”  The wolf shakes his head.  “Then how the hell can you even say something so stupid to a customer?!  You’re condemning his vehicle and you haven’t fucking looked under the hood yet!”

 

 

 

“Awe come on Yash,” says Kouga waving back and forth from said vehicle to his employer.  “You don’t need to be psychic for this!  There might be one, maybe two parts that can be salvaged at best, but otherwise, … she’s just an old piece of shit!  Only a miracle can save her and as far as I can tell, none of us is sporting a damn halo!”

 

 

 

“Oh?!” growls the hanyou angrily pointing a clawed finger toward his employees.  “You telling me to send him, a customer, somewhere else, to the competition maybe, without at least looking at his vehicle?  You think it’s that hopeless, a lost cause?”

 

 

 

“Well…yeah,” replies Rishu a bit frightened.

 

 

 

“Then I’ve got news for you Ri.  Takahashe Motors, has never, turned down a customer and this one’s not going to be the exception!  You got that?!”

 

 

 

“But Yash!” whines both Rishu and Kouga.

 

 

 

“But nothing!  Now, you two have wasted enough of mine and this customer’s valuable time, standing around spouting your fucking nonsense.  So, get your damn asses over to his van and push her into the building and into my island.”

 

 

 

“What?!” Kouga asks surprised.  “You’re not seriously going to try and fix that thing, are you?”

 

 

 

“Ya said no one else wants to work on it, didn’t ya?  Why not me?”

 

 

 

“Because it’s,” says the wolf.  “The time and effort you’re gonna put into it...!”

 

 

 

“Don’t think I can do it, do ya Kouga?” challenges the hanyou with a growl.

 

 

 

“Uhhh,” says the wolf scratching his head.  “I just think it’s a big waste of time, that’s all.”

 

 

 

“It’s my fucking time to waste, ain’t it?”

 

 

 

“Yeah, but the cost…and all the aggravation you’ll be getting yourself into.  Not to mention we might not be able to find the right parts for it.  Can’t you see…”

 

 

 

“What I see is two fucking pricks still standing around, doing nothing.  Now get your damn asses moving before I lose my fucking temper.”

 

 

 

“Alright, alright, we’re going,” says the wolf petulantly as he turns away.  “Don’t get your panties all in a bunch.”

 

 

 

“Damn,” whispers Rishu turning from the angry hanyou.  “Why, the hell did Yash have to go and rip into our asses for?  Everyone else was laughing just as much as we were.  He should order them help push it too.”

 

 

 

“What can you do?” replies Kouga with a shrug of his shoulders.  “Yash is pissed.  And will probably remain that way, the rest of the day or until his demon decides to calm down a bit.”  The young demon and his friend slowly make their way toward the vehicle.  “Say Ri,” whispers the wolf nudging his friend. 

 

 

 

“Huh?”

 

 

 

“How about we make a wager on whether Yash can fix that thing or not?”

 

 

 

“You serious?  What if…”

 

 

 

“TODAY!!” barks InuYasha angrily.

 

 

 

“Awe!” replies Rishu kicking at the ground.  “This shit sucks!  Everyone was laughing and we’re the only ones paying for it.”

 

 

 

“Hey, I hear ya,” grumbles Kouga.  “Yash just ain’t no fun when he’s bitchy like that.”  Then, while still griping and complaining, the wolf demon and human walk over to the van to do as instructed.

 

 

 

“Man, InuYasha.”

 

 

 

“Huh?

 

 

 

“Things get rather rough around here, don’t they?” asks Miroku watching the two, try and push his large van up the incline.  “To speak to a customer like that?  It’s a wonder they haven’t lost their jobs already.”

 

 

 

“Yeah, I know, Miroku but don’t let their attitudes fool you,” says InuYasha watching his employees.  “They’re really good mechanics.  They both know their stuff and are fast and efficient in their work.  It’s just sometimes they need a fire lit under their asses, to get them started.  Hope Ris didn’t upset you too much with what he said about your van.  They’re usually not so rude to our customers.”

 

 

 

“Oh, I’m alright, InuYasha.  When it comes to my van, I’ve heard much worse.  Mostly from my wife.”

 

 

 

InuYasha turns toward his office door.  “Well let’s go into the office so I can write up the order.”

 

 

 

Miroku nods while turning to follow the hanyou.  “So, um, where’s your boss InuYasha?”

 

 

 

“My boss?”

 

 

 

“Yeah.  This is his business so he must be hanging around here somewhere.”

 

 

 

“Oh, he’s around alright,” says the hanyou as the two enter the office.  “Why do you ask?”

 

 

 

“Oh, you know.  That my baby out there and I don’t want just anybody working on her.  It has to be someone I can trust.  So, I wanna meet the guy to sort of size him up.”

 

 

 

“I see.  Well, it’ll be me working on her Miroku.”

 

 

 

“Remember I’m just a poor man.  Don’t have much money to pay you right away.”

 

 

 

“We’re friends, aren’t we?”

 

 

 

“Well sure.”

 

 

 

“So don’t worry about it.  We’ll work something out.”

 

 

 

“Thanks.  I have been told you’re the best mechanic in town, ya know?”

 

 

 

“Really?”

 

 

 

“Yep.”  Miroku looks around the room.  “Say um…”

 

 

 

“Yeah?” replies the hanyou sitting down, waving toward the empty chair in front of his desk.

 

 

 

“Oh, thanks,” replies Miroku sitting down.  “When you were talking to those mechanics out there…you did say Takehashe motors, right?”

 

 

 

“That’s right.  Got a problem, with it?” 

 

 

 

“No, it’s just…well Kagome.”

 

 

 

“Kagome?” asks the hanyou his ears perking up at the woman’s name. 

 

 

 

“Yeah,” replies Miroku with a nod.  “You had neglected to mention where you worked so I had to ask her.  I’m quite sure she said, Takahashe though.”

 

 

 

“I’m surprised Kagome remembered at all.”  InuYasha opens the top drawer, pulling out forms, and placing them on his desk.  “When she first came around here, Kagome read the sign outside and assumed a man with that name, owns the shop.”

 

 

 

“The sign?”

 

 

 

“Yeah.  It’s very old, Miroku.  About eighty-five, ninety years.  It’s outdated and some of the letters have faded out.  Course, I’ve been meaning to have a more modern one made, but since no one’s actually complained about it, I keep it as is.”

 

 

 

“Guess it’s easier on the wallet that way.”  Miroku begins rubbing his chin.  “Takahashe huh,” he says hesitantly.  “Takahashe?  I know I’ve heard that name somewhere before.  Was it?  Nah, I don’t think it was there.  Maybe…”  He snaps his fingers and looks expectantly at InuYasha.  “That’s right.  Takehashe’s your last name, isn’t it?”

 

 

 

“Sure is,” replies the hanyou with a fanged smile.  “And damn proud of it.”

 

 

 

“Guess you’re working for a family member then.”

 

 

 

“It’s all in how you look at it, actually.”  The hanyou waves a hand around him.  “See, this shop, this whole business was started from the ground up a century ago.  The land, the building, all the equipment you’ve seen...it’s all mine.  My half-brother, Sesshomaru deals with the business of taxes so whenever a customer asks, I tell them he owns it.  It makes things a lot less complicated that way.”

 

 

 

“I’m sure.  So, you’re saying you’re the owner, huh?  The sole owner, of Takahashe Motors?” says Miroku skeptically.  “This whole setup, from top to bottom all belongs to you?”

 

 

 

“Damn straight!” the hanyou brightly smiles with a nod.  “All this shit is mine.  Why?  Didn’t think a hanyou like me could own a successful shop like this?”

 

 

 

“No, it’s not that.  Just wondering why Kagome’s kept it a secret from Sango and me.  Did you forbid her to say anything about this?”

 

 

 

“No, she…”  The young hanyou looks away.  “Well Kagome doesn’t know anything about this Miroku.  I’ve never told her,” InuYasha replies quietly.

 

 

 

“Ya don’t trust her or something?”

 

 

 

“I trust her,” replies the hanyou shrugging his shoulders.  “It’s just Kagome never asked and the time never seemed right, for me to mention it to her.  Like you, Kagome thinks of me as just a regular mechanic who works here.”  He looks up at the curious man.  “But um, speaking of Kagome…how’s she doing?  Is she ok?”

 

 

 

“Why not call her up InuYasha, and ask her yourself?”

 

 

 

“She won’t talk to me,” replies the hanyou looking away.

 

 

 

“Oh, she’ll talk to you alright,” says Miroku smiling.  “Kagome would love nothing more than to hear from you again.  I’m sure when she hears of your success, she’d be so proud of you.”

 

 

 

(Proud of me, huh?)  “Well, I’m not told anyone about this shop Miroku.  No one knows about it other than family.”

 

 

 

“Your fiancée, must know right?”

 

 

 

“Nope,” says the hanyou.  “Haven’t told KiKyo either.”

 

 

 

“Is there a reason why you’re being so secretive about it?  There’s nothing wrong in bragging about your success.  Probably took a long time and a lot of money and effort, for you to build this business.”

 

 

 

“That’s true.  But bragging isn’t quite my style,” replies InuYasha shrugging his shoulders.  “That’s not to say I’m not proud of what I’ve accomplished here because I am.  Fixing cars is what I love Miroku and owning a business where I’d be paid to do that, is for me, a dream come true.  I just don’t like talking about it, is all.  Especially when it comes to women.”

 

“Why’s that?

 

 

 

“The women are only interested in how much money I make.  When I tell them, it ends up with them trying to get me to marry them.  Sometimes, I feel like I’m some prize to be won at a raffle or something. 

 

 

 

“That’s not so InuYasha.  Impressing women is a good way to find a wife.”

 

 

 

“Not true.  Oh, I’ve dated a few women, of course, but it always ends with them being interested in my money and not me as a man.  It’s a real pain in the ass and relationships like those only tend to make trouble for me.”

 

 

 

“And Kagome?  Has she ever said anything about your money?” says Miroku looking a little angry.  “You think she’s one of those snobby nosed, grabby, manipulative gold diggers, don’t you?  Well, you could be more wrong InuYasha.  Kagome’s not a manipulator or a gold digger.  It’s not in her nature to judge anyone by the size of their pocketbook.  In fact, she ignores it.”

 

 

 

“Hey I…”

 

 

 

“I’ve never known Kagome to ask for anything, InuYasha!  Not jewelry, not money…nothing!  And to think you would judge her…say such things about her, it…”

 

 

 

“I wasn’t speaking of Kagome, Miroku,” explains the hanyou looking anxious.

 

 

 

“No?  Then who were you speaking of?  Miss KiKyo perhaps?”

 

 

 

“No, damn it, just women in general.”

 

 

 

“Oh.  Well, Kagome’s very special, InuYasha.  She’s Important to Sango and me.  And surprisingly enough, for some reason she seems to like you... a lot…no matter who or what you are… rich or poor.”

 

 

 

“I like her too Miroku but…well there’d been good relationships…some that were just fine until they get those huge dollar signs in their eyes.  As for KiKyo?  I know her…I know how fucking bad that female could get.  If our relationship doesn’t work out, she’ll take everything from me.  And no one’s gonna do that to me.  So, my family is the only ones who know about this.  And you.”

 

 

 

“You’re still marrying Miss KiKyo, aren’t you?” says Miroku curiously.  “She’ll become your family, have your children.”

 

 

 

“Children?”

 

 

 

“That’s right.  Probably lots of them.  So, hiding something this big from your wife…you’re just asking for trouble.”

 

 

 

“I’m not telling KiKyo shit, damn it.  KiKyo has her own secrets.  Secrets she has no intentions of telling me about.  So why should I share mine with her?”

 

 

 

“But… this,” Miroku waves a hand around him, “sharing this with her, could only sweeten your marriage…perhaps set it on the right track, sort of speak.”

 

 

 

“The right track huh?  That’d be interesting, except whoever said anything about marriage?” asks InuYasha, curiously.  “I sure didn’t.”  (KiKyo’d be the last female I’d want to marry.  So why am I engaged to her.  Oh…right.  Those damn promises.)

 

 

 

“Well um… Kagome.  She talks about your wedding all the time.”

 

 

 

“She does?” says the hanyou giving an unhappy sigh.  (Figures.)  “Guess everybody must know about it by now, huh?

 

 

 

“You can’t be serious, InuYasha.  Everyone, and his dog, knows about it.  For weeks now your announcements have been plastered all over the society pages...with pictures no less.”

 

 

 

“Well, I haven’t seen it,” says the hanyou narrowing his eyes.

 

 

 

“You…you haven’t been reading the papers?”

 

 

 

“Been too busy to read anything.  But you did say Kagome’s seen it right?”

 

 

 

“That’s right, she has.  Every day in fact.  Why?”

 

 

 

“Nothing.  Just wondering why, she hasn’t congratulated me yet.  Though it does makes sense now if Kagome’s been reading all about it.  Must be happy about it too.”

 

 

 

“Happy?  Just because you haven’t heard from Kagome, you think she’s happy?”

 

 

 

“Sure!” says the hanyou.  “I’m getting married and Kagome’s seeing some other bastard now.  Probably wants to marry him.”

 

 

 

“She’s…wait…what did you just say?”

 

 

 

“She wants to marry the bastard.  Kagome’s so fucking happy with him she doesn’t give me a second thought anymore.  I’d be surprised she’d remember my damned name if she ever saw me again.”

 

 

 

“Uh, let me get this straight InuYasha.  You’re saying Kagome…she’s seeing someone else…now?”

 

 

 

“Don’t act so fucking shocked Miroku.  You know damn good and well she is.  You’ve known about it for weeks.”

 

 

 

“That’s not possible.”

 

 

 

The hanyou narrows his eyes.  “You saying I’m a liar?”

 

 

 

“No, no, I’m just saying you might be imagining it, is all.”

 

 

 

“Now why the hell would I want to torture myself like that, huh?  I’m not a fucking masochist.”

 

 

 

“Well, something’s not right.  My wife and I are very close to Kagome, so if she were actually seeing someone, she would have told Sango or me about it.”

 

 

 

“Yeah well, maybe she keeps secrets too,” says the hanyou with another slight growl.  “But my eyes, Miroku, are working just fine.  Four weeks ago, at that fucking mall, I saw Kagome sitting with the bastard.  And from where I was sitting, they looked pretty damn chummy.”

 

 

 

“Uhhh…you sure about that InuYasha?” asks Miroku rubbing his chin.  “Four weeks?”

 

 

 

“That’s right,” replies the hanyou angrily.  “Kagome told me she was at the mall buying a damn pan or something.  And I not only saw Kagome, I’d actually touched her.  Oh, she was there, alright.  Her and that damn fucker, sitting in the food court together…holding hands, laughing and shit!  Looking like they were having such a damn good time.  Made me sick just thinking about it.”

 

 

 

“Maybe you should stop thinking about it, huh?” replies Miroku with a giggle.

 

 

 

“You think this is funny, do ya?” growls InuYasha.  “That fucker could have been a damn stalker and you know how fucking trusting Kagome can be.  She would go off with him without a second thought.  Wouldn’t think twice that he could be so heinous as to try and get her alone somewhere to…  Somewhere where he would try to…”  InuYasha tightly closes his eyes.  “Maybe even beat her senseless!”

 

 

 

“InuYasha.”

 

 

 

“He could slit Kagome’s throat, damn it, or molest her, and no one would be the wiser!”

 

 

 

“Will you calm yourself?”

 

 

 

InuYasha hits his fist on his desk as he stands facing the man.  “You’re not listening, damn it!  Kagome could be in danger now.  That bastard, could rape her, stab her to death!  You want that happening to Kagome?!  Well do ya?!”

 

 

 

“Heaven forbid InuYasha.  But really I can’t see that happening to her.”

 

 

 

InuYasha gives a low growl and shows his fangs.  “Why… the hell, not?  Kagome’s mortal, you dumbass.”

 

 

 

“I know Kagome’s mortal, InuYasha,” says Miroku rubbing the back of his neck.  “And seeing just how passionate you are about it I really hate breaking this to you.

 

 

 

The anger grows in the hanyou’s eyes.  “Break what to me?  Kagome is hurt, isn’t she?  That bastard.  I’ll kill him!”

 

 

 

“Hey, hey, calm down.  Kagome’s not hurt.  It’s just that, that day…Kagome wasn’t with anyone at the mall.”

 

 

 

“Damn it, Miroku I’m not fucking blind!  I did see them, just as clear as I’m seeing you, right now.”

 

 

 

“Oh, I believe you.  You probably did see Kagome, and saw she had someone with her.  But I can assure you my friend, it was all perfectly innocent.”

 

 

 

“Innocent my ass.  You didn’t see them!”

 

 

 

“No, but my wife did.”

 

 

 

“Sango…she saw them?”

 

 

 

“That’s right.  Sango went to the mall to pick up Kagome.  She met the guy you’re talking about and told me about him.  Said he was just some guy who bought Kagome a glass of water.  So, you see, she wasn’t in any danger at all.”

 

 

 

“Oh, come on you can’t be that fucking stupid.  Water?  No, that bastard had something more on his mind than just providing Kagome water.”

 

 

 

“It’s the truth.  Sango said the guy was a doctor who just happened to be there.  That he’d noticed how pale and unusually weak Kagome was and wanted to help.  He was just concerned about her welfare, InuYasha and only wanted to find out what was going on with her health.”

 

 

 

“Health, huh?  Keh!  Then why was that damn bastard holding her fucking hand Miroku?  Ya can’t say that was innocent.”

 

 

 

“Well, yeah he probably held her hand… to take her pulse.”

 

 

 

“Her what?”

 

 

 

“Her pulse.  The doctor’s name was Shumer or something like that and was greatly concerned about how weak Kagome seemed.  In fact, before leaving her, he told Kagome to make an appointment with her doctor.  That he felt Kagome was very ill and even told Sango to make sure Kagome went straight home and straight to bed.”

 

 

 

“That bad, huh?”

 

 

 

“He seemed to think so.”

 

 

 

(Come to think of it, Kagome did look weak, even fainted earlier, that day,) thought the hanyou worriedly.  (I was so upset over it that if it weren’t for KiKyo I would have stay at Kagome’s side just so I could take care of her.)  “And that guy…he was only interested in Kagome health?  Nothing… romantic…was going on between them?”

 

 

 

“None whatsoever.  Why?  Jealous?”

 

 

 

“Jealous?  Me?”  The hanyou sharply turns away.  “Keh!  As if.”

 

 

 

“Sounds to me like you are.  I’m not judging, you understand.”

 

 

 

“That’s good Miroku cause I’m not.  Jealous, that is.  I’m…I’m just concerned about Kagome is all.  So far, she hasn’t had much luck with men, and the guy she was with, was acting all cool and shit.  Touching her, making her fucking laugh.  Why if it weren’t for KiKyo, I’d have grabbed that bastard’s ass and threw him as far away from Kagome as I could.”

 

 

 

“I see.  Lucky for him, KiKyo was there, huh?”

 

 

 

“Keh!  Yeah, right.  Kagome is happy about my engagement though, right?”

 

 

 

“What makes you think that?”

 

 

 

“Kagome said as much when she saw me that day, even wanted to know all the fucking details.  Went so far as to say how lucky KiKyo was to have me.”

 

 

 

“She really said all that?” 

 

 

 

“Of course, she did.  She was smiling and everything.”

 

 

 

“I don’t suppose you noticed anything…unusual…with her behavior, did you?”

 

 

 

“Unusual?  No.  Just the same ole Kagome.”

 

 

 

“Strange,” replies Miroku rubbing his chin.  (I would have thought being a hanyou he would have noticed it.)

 

 

 

“Since that day I haven’t heard shit from her Miroku.  Not one call, visit, nothing.  Didn’t even get a fucking postcard.”

 

 

 

“I see.  Guess it’s alright then, if you truly believe she’s happy with it but...  Well, I may as well tell you this.  When it comes to Kagome, things aren’t always as it seems with her.  Sango and I… we know what to look for.”

 

 

 

“Look for?  What the hell does that mean?”

 

 

 

“Well…take your engagement.  Kagome’s told us, many times in fact, how so very happy she is for you and your intended, even gone so far as to cut out all your engagement and wedding articles from the paper to place in her scrap book.”

 

 

 

“Doesn’t sound like she’s all that unhappy to me,” the hanyou says with a pout.

 

 

 

“Only because you haven’t been around her long enough to know any better,” replies Miroku with a slight shake of his head.

 

 

 

“Mind explaining that.”

 

 

 

“It’s simple really.  As you know, unlike you, Sango and I have been around Kagome for quite some time,” explains Miroku, “long enough to know her habits, her moods… when she’s lying or trying to force herself into believing certain things.”

 

 

 

“Come on.  Kagome’s not that weak minded… is she?”

 

 

 

“Of course, not,” replies Miroku.  “Kagome’s not weak at all.  It’s just she’s constantly telling Sango and me about how happy she is for you.  Saying things like how beautiful the dress is or how handsome you are in the pictures, all the while wearing that trembling smile of hers whenever she mentions your name or the wedding.  Even caught her wiping her eyes a time or two, when she thought we weren’t looking.”

 

 

 

“You telling the truth, Miroku?” asks InuYasha looking skeptical.  “Convincing yourself you’re happy when actually you’re not…can be very stressful on both heart and soul.”

 

 

 

“Sure, it can.  In fact, I’m sure it’s what’s keeping her from…well, from having a serious relationship with another man.”

 

 

 

“Has she ever been serious with a man before?  I don’t mean sexually or anything … just really serious?”

 

 

 

“She was once, I think.  Though that was some time ago.  Kagome had decided to go out on a date with someone.”

 

 

 

“And?”

 

 

 

“It didn’t work out, I’m afraid.  Kagome came home crying, nervous…dress torn, ruined.  There were bruises on both her arms and back, as if someone tried forcing her down onto something hard and unyielding.  I didn’t need her to tell me what had transpired that night.  Kagome’s face and body told it all.  Believe me, I was angry.  So angry I wanted to hunt the bastard down and kill him.  But Kagome, being the gentle soul she is, wouldn’t hear of it.  Since that night, other than with you, Kagome’s shown no interest in men or in dating at all.”

 

 

 

“You’re sure about this Miroku… about Kagome… that she’s really unhappy about me marrying KiKyo?”

 

 

 

“Pretty sure,” replies Miroku with a nod.  

 

 

 

“Pretty sure doesn’t cut it.  I want to know for sure how she really feels about it.  Kagome seemed so happy when I last saw her.  Was so gungho about the whole marriage shit.  And, now you’re telling me she’s unhappy about it.  Why, the sudden change?”

 

 

 

“It’s like I said, InuYasha, everything’s not always as it seems with Kagome.  I’m sure you’ve noticed it from time to time, how she tries so hard to please no matter who it is, or what she feels about the situation.  Kagome’s always cheerful, smiling, using that facade in order to keep her feelings well-hidden from everyone.”

 

 

 

“Oh, I’ve noticed it alright.  That’s why Kagome had fallen so hard when the kid died.  The pain was too much for her to handle.  Keeping those feelings all bottled up inside like she was… well something had to give.”

 

 

 

“You’re right.  There’s no denying Kagome was suffering terribly at that time, yet, she refused to share that pain.  If it weren’t for that trembling smile of hers, we never would have known the whole extent of it.”

 

 

 

“And that’s what you’re basing all your facts on?  Her smile?”

 

 

 

“Sure am.  Kagome’s never been a good liar InuYasha.  No matter how hard she tries, her trembling smile gives her away every time.  So, knowing that about Kagome; and what I’d been seeing lately, I’d say she’s very, very unhappy about your engagement to lady KiKyo, that she’s down right miserable about it.”

 

 

 

“Can’t believe Kagome is actually that unhappy,” says the hanyou, hope filtering into his voice.

 

 

 

“I’m surprised to hear that,” says Miroku with a smile.

 

 

 

“Oh?  Why?”

 

 

 

“You’re a hanyou InuYasha.  With your superb senses, I’d think it’d be easy for you to pick up on Kagome’s feelings…tell if she’s truly happy or not.”

 

 

 

“That usually happens when one is mated Miroku and very rarely when one is not.  And as far as Kagome and the mall…I was with KiKyo at the time,” says the hanyou with slight shrug.  “When I was sitting with Kagome, I was too busy watching for KiKyo to really give her my full attention.  And with all the scents of humans wafting around, I was unable to concentrate on Kagome’s scent alone.”

 

 

 

“I see.  Must have been hard on you.”

 

 

 

“Oh, believe me, it was.  So when I found it hard to concentrate on what she was saying, I’d decided it was best to see Kagome later that week to talk to her.”

 

 

 

“Yes, Kagome mentioned you were coming over.  Seemed really excited about it.  So what happened?”

 

 

 

“Oh, you know.  One thing led to another…and when I saw Kagome with that guy, I just assumed they were an item and she’d never been interested in me that way.  So, I thought it best to back off and not go around her anymore.”

 

 

 

“So, in other words, you basically, gave up on her.”

 

 

 

“Yeah.  But, it’s not as if she was giving me any encouragement Miroku.  Pushing me out of her apartment, telling me to go home.  And then there’s that bastard.  What I was supposed to do, huh?  Wait around until she was finally married?”

 

 

 

“Nothing to do, I guess,” replies Miroku scratching his head.  So, about my van?  She can be fixed, can’t she?”

 

 

 

“We were talking about Kagome, weren’t we?”

 

 

 

“We were, but perhaps I shouldn’t have brought her up,” replies Miroku.  “You and lady KiKyo seem to be getting along rather nicely and are soon to be married.”

 

 

 

“What does that have to do with Kagome?”

 

 

 

“I don’t want Kagome getting hurt.”

 

 

 

“Keh!  You should know me better than that, Miroku,” says the hanyou surprised.  “I’d never do anything to hurt Kagome.”

 

 

 

“Not intentionally InuYasha but…well I really must agree with my wife on this one.  You’re living with a woman; one you’re committed to, expecting to marry.  Kagome… she doesn’t have any of that.  Kagome needs, InuYasha.  She needs someone she can trust and love.  Someone who will love and protect her, make her feel special…worthy.”

 

 

 

“Don’t you think I know that already?” says InuYasha.  “Kagome needs all that and more and I really want to give it to her.  But with KiKyo…well I seriously doubt she’ll allow me to see Kagome at all.”

 

 

 

“Do you honestly need Miss KiKyo’s permission to see Kagome?”

 

 

 

The hanyou shakes his head and frowns.  “I don’t need permission from anyone for anything.  It’s just I’m afraid for Kagome’s life.  That if KiKyo does see me hanging around Kagome she might do something to her.”

 

 

 

“No,” says Miroku frowning.  “Miss KiKyo wouldn’t really do Kagome any harm would she?”

 

 

 

“Not as long as I’m alive, she won’t.  No matter what happens Miroku, I will protect Kagome.”

 

 

 

“Protect her…against your wife?”

 

 

 

“Damn right.  I’ll do anything.  Anything to keep Kagome safe and well.  But keeping Kagome safe means, having to stay away from her.  Does that make any sense?”

 

 

 

“From your point of view InuYasha, I guess it does…a little.  Just remember, Kagome does have others who love and will protect her as well.”

 

 

 

“Yeah, I know.  But I want it to be me who protects and cares for her.  And not being able to see Kagome or do anything for her…it’s gets so fucking frustrating.”

 

 

 

“Hm,” replies Miroku with a strange look on his face.  “It’s funny you’d say that InuYasha.  Especially since Kagome says the same thing to Sango about your situation with her, or lack of I should say.”

 

 

 

“She does?”

 

 

 

“Um hm,” replies Miroku with a nod.  “Told Sango, your engagement with lady KiKyo is what’s keeping you two apart.  That it can’t be helped.”

 

 

 

“Guess great minds think alike, huh?

 

 

 

“So, it would seem.”

 

 

 

“If only our so-called great minds could figure a way for me to get out of this shit.”

 

 

 

“Maybe the best solution for you InuYasha is to just let it go.  Forget Kagome and marry Miss KiKyo…have kids and get on with your life.  Kagome would understand.”

 

 

 

“Understand what exactly?”

 

 

 

“Your engagement of course, and what’s involved.  Engagements and weddings…they can be wonderful, InuYasha yet so stressful at the same time.  Kagome knows this…knows you’re finally marrying the woman you love and is doing her level best to be happy and supportive of your decisions.”

 

 

 

“But you just said Kagome was unhappy.”

 

 

 

“She is unhappy, and is suffering greatly.  Sango and I think it’ll be some time before Kagome comes to terms with your marriage and get on with her life.”

 

 

 

“That makes no fucking sense.  If Kagome’s suffering as you say, then what the hell’s keeping her from picking up the damn phone and calling me?  The damn thing does work both ways.  If only she’d call, Miroku, tell me she misses and needs me, I’d find some way for us to, be together even if I have to take her far away from here to do it.”

 

 

 

“If you only knew the many times Kagome picked up the receiver InuYasha.”

 

 

 

“She has?”

 

 

 

Miroku nods.  “Kagome would begin dialing your number only to set it down on its cradle and walk away.”

 

 

 

“Why though?  Doesn’t she care if I need her or not?  That I need her so fucking badly it hurts?”

 

 

 

“She won’t know unless you tell her, you know.  She’s no mind reader.  Kagome wants you to remember, InuYasha.  Remember your priorities and that you belong to KiKyo now.  That your attention should only be focused on her.  Kagome’s hurting yes, but she knows where your heart lies and is doing her very best to ignore her own feelings.  All because she wants you to be happy.”

 

 

 

“Happy huh…with who?  KiKyo?”

 

 

 

“That’s right my friend, with KiKyo.  Kagome knows perfectly well, what it means to have someone special to love …and how that love can affect your life.  She doesn’t want to take away that happiness, ruin your relationship with your fiancée, by calling or making herself a nuisance.”

 

 

 

“But what if I…”

 

 

 

“Hold it,” says Miroku raising his hand, effectively stopping the hanyou in mid-sentence.  “You can stop right there, InuYasha.”

 

 

 

“What?”

 

 

 

“I know what you’re going to suggest already.” 

 

 

 

“How?  You’re no mind reader either Miroku.  You can’t possibly know anything of the sort.”

 

 

 

“I don’t need to be a mind reader, InuYasha, to know what’s in that mind of yoursd.  You’re going to suggest taking care of both women, right?”

 

 

 

“Nothing wrong with that, is there?” asks the hanyou curiously.  “There’s enough of me, to make them both happy.  And Kagome would be protected and wouldn’t want for anything.”

 

 

 

“And I take it you’re seeing nothing wrong with that particular scenario?”

 

 

 

“Of course not.  In fact, I believe it’s the best solution for all involved.”

 

 

 

“You’re wrong.  No one will be happy if you try what you’re thinking.  You’ll only end up hurting both women and yourself.”

 

 

 

“I can’t see how.”

 

 

 

“You don’t?  Your fiancée and Kagome are two very different women, InuYasha, with very different backgrounds and needs.”

 

 

 

“So?  I can adjust, keep them separated from each other.  KiKyo’s always going out of town on business anyway.  Sometimes a month at a time.  So, what’s the harm in caring for Kagome while she’s away?  I’ll live in Kagome’s apartment and when KiKyo returns I’ll go home, keeping KiKyo happy as well.”

 

 

 

“Running back and forth between them, huh?”

 

 

 

“It won’t be so bad Miroku and everyone benefits from it.  KiKyo can keep her damn secrets, and I’ll have Kagome all to myself.”

 

 

 

“And you believe, doing this, everyone will benefit from such a situation?”

 

 

 

“Why not?  I have more than enough money and can satisfy both, physically.”

 

 

 

“There’s more to love than just sex and money.  And you just might have the physical stamina it takes to accomplish it all.  But what about managing their emotions …KiKyo’s and Kagome’s feelings?”

 

 

 

“As long as they’re happy and satisfied, they shouldn’t mind the situation one bit.”

 

 

 

“I wouldn’t be so sure.”

 

 

 

“And why’s that?  I’ll be happy.  Kagome will be happy and so will KiKyo.”

 

 

 

“Ohhh?  You think so, huh?  Think back to our earlier discussion, InuYasha.  While you were at the mall, how did you feel seeing Kagome sitting with that guy?

 

 

 

“I was a little upset.”

 

 

 

“Oh, I think you were more than just a little, my friend.”

 

 

 

“Alright so I was pissed!  What of it?”

 

 

 

“Just this.  If Kagome were to decide to keep both you and her friend, tried keeping you both happy…in all ways I might add, what do you think would come from it?

 

 

 

“Just what are you getting at Miroku?”

 

 

 

“Just this InuYasha.  In that type of situation, Kagome would no doubt be sharing her bed with the both of you.  Could you honestly handle sharing her like that?  Sharing Kagome, her bed with another man, smelling his scent covering her body when it’s your turn to visit?  Would you truly be happy in that situation?”

 

 

 

“No.  I’d be fucking pissed as hell.  No other male should be touching Kagome but me!  But that situation is a lot different.”

 

 

 

“How so?  It’s what you want, isn’t it?  To sleep with one then the other just to keep them happy?”

 

 

 

The hanyou pictures himself, leaving Kagome’s side to go to KiKyo.  (Fucking KiKyo while not thinking of Kagome?  Is that even possible?  Hell, I can barely do that now without feeling sick about it.)  “At least it’s worth a try, Miroku.”

 

 

 

“You’d only fail, my friend.  Kagome’s not KiKyo, InuYasha.  She has a soulful heart, always willing to please, whereas KiKyo…well only you can attest to what she would do.  Guess what I’m asking here is do you honestly believe Kagome would be happy in that particular scenario…that she wouldn’t be hurt by it or that it won’t eventually kill her?”

 

 

 

“Kill her?  Miroku, Kagome’s a strong woman.  In that situation, I think she’ll be just fine.  I’ll make sure of it.”

 

 

 

“You’re mistaken, my friend, if you truly believe your wealth will solve this problem.  As I’ve said, Kagome’s no gold digger.  All the wealth in the world won’t win Kagome’s heart.  Cause when it comes to love her love is special.  She gives her whole heart and soul, completely, without any reservations at all.  And when she loves, she loves hard.  Not for a man’s riches or wealth.  She would love the whole man for himself.”

 

 

 

(As a human, KiKyo only wants what I can give her, but as a demon, she only wants what I can do for her in bed.  Miroku saying Kagome’s not like that at all.)  “Seems funny to hear that about a female.  And Kagome…it seems too good to be true.  So, is it?”

 

 

 

Miroku nods.  “It is indeed InuYasha.  It’s why this plan of yours won’t work.  Just as you wouldn’t like sharing Kagome with another man, your fiancée would not like sharing you with Kagome.  Lady KiKyo would feel betrayed, angry, and very possessive.  This situation you’re contemplating, KiKyo can become very dangerous, and would most likely take her revenge out on Kagome, just so she can keep you all to herself.” 

 

 

 

(To be loved like that…) The hanyou thought, not listening to Miroku’s words.  (It’s what I’ve always wanted.)

 

 

 

“The bottom line here InuYasha,” continues Miroku, “sharing is not an option.  As your fiancée wouldn’t like it, Kagome wouldn’t like it either.”  A dark scowl appears on the hanyou’s face.

 

 

 

“Kagome could learn to like it, couldn’t she…learn to tolerate KiKyo so she and I can be together?”

 

 

 

Miroku frowns.  “In another universe, maybe.  Oh, don’t get me wrong, my friend, a situation like that would be ideal for any man, myself included.  But this isn’t another universe.  It’s ours and sharing yourself with two women, isn’t exactly how relationships work.  Such relationships would only end up messy and very painful.  So as much as you’d like to…as good as your intentions are… as your friend, I can tell you, it’s useless to try and stay on both sides of the fence like that!  It simply can’t be done.”

 

 

 

“Well, what about me, huh?”

 

 

 

“What about you?”

 

 

 

“I have my needs too, ya know.  Both as a man and a demon!” asks InuYasha angrily. 

 

 

 

“What needs would that be?”

 

 

 

“Just needs.  Like a …a place to live, food on the table!  A warm bed and a warm body to hold onto.”

 

 

 

“Hmm,” replies Miroku hesitantly.  “Yes, well, I suppose, we all have those needs InuYasha.”  He stands as if to leave.  “So, about my van … think you can have her finished by this weekend?  I want to take Sango and Kagome out to the country while the weather is still warm.”

 

 

 

The hanyou frowns.  (Damn fucking prick!  Didn’t think to ask me, huh?)  The hanyou takes a deep breath to curb his tongue.  “This weekend, huh?  Can’t make any promises Miroku, until I first see what’s under the hood.  Come by and see me tomorrow.  I should have more to tell you then.”

 

 

 

“All right.  Taking the train to work won’t be so bad so long as I know she’ll be repaired.”  The man reaches to shake the hanyou’s hand.  “Try not to be such, a stranger InuYasha, alright?  Come by the apartment more often…visit with your friends.”  Miroku smiles and gives a wink.  “You might find relationships grow a lot faster that way.”

 

 

 

“Just might do that, Miroku,” says InuYasha feeling a little more hopeful.  “There is something I wanted to talk to Kagome about anyway, so as soon as I get away from KiKyo, I’ll run by her place.”

 

 

 

“Good.  Kagome will be thrilled seeing you again.  And just maybe your visit will finally get her out of the slump she’s in.”

 

 

 

“It’s not her headaches again, is it?” asks the hanyou concerned.

 

 

 

“Not really sure,” replies Miroku slightly shaking his head.  “Kagome’s been sort of withdrawn, out of sorts a lot lately, doesn’t seem to have much energy…can’t sleep.  It’s like the light in her just vanished.  Sango thinks Kagome’s been cooped up in her apartment far too long and needs to get out thus the trip to the countryside.  Says it should help Kagome, but I really don’t think it could be that simple.”

 

 

 

“Kagome did mention something about having trouble sleeping, but she should be over that by now.  It’s been four weeks.  So, you’re saying it’s still happening?”

 

 

 

“Seems so.  She can’t get much sleep, doesn’t eat much either.”

 

 

 

“What does her doctor say about it.”

 

 

 

“That’s just it, InuYasha.  Kagome’s refusing to see her doctor, keeps saying she’s fine.  I have to say though, for someone who says she’s fine, Kagome really looks bad.”

 

 

 

“That bastard hasn’t been around there, has he?” asks the hanyou again looking angry.

 

 

 

“Who?  Houjo?  No, I don’t think so,” replies Miroku.  “Kagome hasn’t mentioned anything to us if he has.  But that’s not what’s really troubling about this.”

 

 

 

“It’s worse?”

 

 

 

“I think so.  What Sango and I are finding so unusual about this whole mess is no matter how many times we’ve asked, Kagome refuses to go anywhere anymore.  Not to the park, the mall, not even the cemetery.  And you know how diligent Kagome’s always been about visiting Souta’s grave every week. 

 

 

 

“Yeah.  That’s always been like a weekly ritual with her.  Still, she goes to the store, right?  The wench still needs to eat, even if it’s a little.”

 

 

 

“No, Sango goes to the store for her when she needs anything.  And I’ve only seen her when she takes her garbage out.  And just recently, InuYasha, Sango’s told me Kagome won’t even open her door.

 

 

 

“Not ever?” asks the hanyou worriedly.

 

 

 

“That’s right.”

 

 

 

“Shit!  I told Kagome not to open her door to anyone Miroku, to protect her.  I didn’t mean for her to take it to an extreme like that.”

 

 

 

“This only started recently InuYasha.  Kagome always liked being around people and children.  So, for her to keep herself shut in like this she … well it’s just not natural.  Sango’s really worried, InuYasha.  And to tell the truth, I’m worried about her too.”

 

 

 

“So am I… now,” replies the hanyou with a nod.  “And you have no idea what’s causing her to do this?”

 

 

 

“Not a clue,” replies Miroku shaking his head.  “Just that whatever the problem is, Kagome’s determined to keep it to herself.  Probably because she doesn’t want to burden anyone with her troubles.”

 

 

 

“Yeah.  Kagome’s never been one to go to this extreme before Miroku.  I mean, locking herself up, like some damn prisoner?  What’s that wench trying to prove?”

 

 

 

“I don’t think she trying to prove anything.  It’s just her way is all.  I’d say something is definitely wrong about her, about this whole thing, and it’s becoming very dangerous.”

 

 

 

“You think she’ll try to do something drastic to herself?

 

 

 

“Not really.  I hope she doesn’t, at least.”

 

 

 

“Well, what about Sango?  They’re close.  Surely Kagome said something to her about what’s wrong.”

 

 

 

“You’d think she would but…

 

 

 

“Didn’t huh?” says InuYasha becoming more worried.

 

 

 

“Nope, not a word.  But whatever Kagome’s problem may be InuYasha, it’s tearing her apart.  She seems nervous, anxious all the time now.  In fact, I haven’t seen Kagome this bad since Souta’s death early spring.”

 

 

 

“Surely, you’re exaggerating, Miroku.  No way Kagome could be that bad.”

 

 

 

“You think not?” Miroku frowns.  “InuYasha, if Kagome continues holding whatever it is inside herself, I’m afraid she’ll become so ill, that she’ll have to go back into the hospital again and won’t come out this time.  It’s why I mentioned this to you.  Against Kagome’s wishes I might add.  Kagome needs help InuYasha.  Help Sango and I can’t seem to give her.  So, we’re all hoping, you’ll visit Kagome, that your visit might cheer her up some.  Who knows, maybe it is that Houjo person or maybe someone else who’s bothering her.  Everyone’s tried talking to Kagome, but I think you, of all people, is the only one who will be able to get through to her, get her to open up and get her to talk about what it is that’s destroying her like this.”

 

 

 

“I sure would like to see Kagome again,” says InuYasha feeling his heart, pick up a beat.  “To talk to her.  I really do miss her Miroku.”

 

 

 

“A visit could do her a world of good InuYasha.”  Miroku turns toward the office door and gives a small wave.  “Well, I’m off.  Take good care of my baby for me, ok?”

 

 

 

“Wait a minute Miroku.”

 

 

 

Miroku turns to look back.  “Yeah?”

 

 

 

“Don’t go just yet.”  InuYasha slides a document across his desk and Miroku picks it up.  “I need you to sign this form first.  It allows me to look at the van and do what needs done to it.”

 

 

 

“Oh, I see.”  Miroku signs the form giving it back to the hanyou.  “So, you’ll call when she’s finished?”

 

 

 

“You bet.  Oh, and do me a favor.”

 

 

 

“If I can,” replies Miroku.  “Depends on the favor.”

 

 

 

“When you go home tonight, don’t mention anything about me owning this shop to Kagome ok?”

 

 

 

“Why?”

 

 

 

“Oh, you know.  I’d like to tell her about this myself.  Sort of as a special surprise.”

 

 

 

“Alright, InuYasha, I’ll keep your secret.  But um…what about your fiancée?”

 

 

 

“What about her?”

 

 

 

“What are you telling her about this too?”

 

 

 

“No.  No reason KiKyo should know about this at all,” replies InuYasha with a smirk.

 

 

 

“You sure about that?  If she should learn about this without you telling her first, she could decide to retaliate in some way.”

 

 

 

“Why should she?” asks InuYasha with a slight shrug.  “Whether I tell KiKyo or not, shouldn’t make any difference if she’s not my fiancée, should it?  That is if what you’ve been telling me about Kagome is true.”

 

 

 

“Does this mean you decided against getting married now?”

 

 

 

“Oh, I wouldn’t go so far as to say that Miroku.  A Mrs. Takehashe is still in my future, just her given name will be a little different.”