InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ For the Love of a Child ❯ A Wonderful, Unexpected Suprise for Kagome ( Chapter 19 )

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

 

 

 

 

Two women sit silently at the table in Kagome’s kitchen.  One is absently stirring her beverage while the other woman watches her curiously, wondering what could be on Kagome’s mind.

 

 

 

“So, Kagome.”  Sango raises her cup to her lips.  “Feeling any better this morning?”

 

 

 

Kagome is suddenly snapped from her thoughts.  “What?”

 

 

 

“How are you feeling?  Still having stomach problems?”

 

 

 

“Oh, um, yeah, I am.”

 

 

 

“Your stomach is feeling a little better, isn’t it?”

 

 

 

“No.”  Kagome looks down at her cup.  “If anything, it’s getting worse.  It’s, sort of, regular now Sango.  As soon as I wake up in the morning, I’m off to the bathroom.”

 

 

 

“That’s strange.  Wonder what could be causing it?”

 

 

 

“The flu, I think,” replies Kagome with a shrug of her shoulder.  “I hear it’s going around.”

 

 

 

“Yeah.  I’ve heard that too.  So, um…when’s your appointment with your doctor?”  Knowing Kagome’s personality, Sango braces herself for an argument.

 

 

 

“You serious?” asks Kagome surprised.  “Why would I want to go see him?”

 

 

 

“Oh, I don’t know, Kagome,” replies Sango sarcastically.  “You’re sick, maybe?  You’re throwing up, your moods keep changing and you’ve become very sluggish.  You never go anywhere and never want to go out with us anymore.  You’re looking pale, like you have no life in you and...”

 

 

 

“Pale?  Really?” questions Kagome touching her face.  “Never really noticed.”

 

 

 

“Well, I have, and that tells me you’re not eating like you should.  Makes me wonder why you’re throwing up at all since there’s nothing in your stomach to begin with.  I really worried, Kagome.  And I can’t think of any reason why you should be going through this.”

 

 

 

“I can Sango.  It’s probably my headaches.”

 

 

 

“What?  You never told me you were having headaches again.  When did they start?”

 

 

 

“When have they ever stopped?  The pain keeps getting worse Sango.  Seems I’m nervous all the time now.  In fact, it’s been hard for me to get any sleep and I can’t seem to keep my food down.  Sometimes, Sango, my headaches get so bad I think I’m going to pass out.”

 

 

 

“I didn’t know you were this bad Kagome.  What are you doing about your headaches?”

 

 

 

“Take my medicines,” Kagome replies with a shrug.  “Though, they don’t seem to do what they’re supposed to.  I mean they do ease my headaches a little Sango.  Just not much.”

 

 

 

“So you’re telling me, the headaches are the cause of you not sleeping?”

 

 

 

“No, I’m sleeping.  Sometimes ten or maybe twelve hours at a time sometimes, until my headaches get so bad, they wake me up.  Still no matter how much sleep I get, Sango, once I do wake up, I always feel drained and exhausted…and sick.”

 

 

 

“I see.”

 

 

 

“I don’t allow myself to be lazy, you know,” Kagome nods.  “I have lots of things I need to do around here.  I’ve been doing as much house work as possible, before lying down now, so I don’t have to worry about sleeping in so late.  When I try taking a morning nap, it’s like two maybe five in the afternoon before I can even open my eyes.”

 

 

 

“It’s no wonder.  If I used my day just cleaning house all the time, I’d be exhausted too,” says Sango.  “What’s with all the cleaning anyway?  From what I can see, your apartment is spotless.”

 

 

 

“Maybe.”  Kagome looks around her kitchen.  There are no dishes in the sink, the counters are spotless.  The floor is so clean; one would think they could eat off it.  Kagome sighs.  “My floor could use another scrubbing, though.”

 

 

 

“Your floors are just fine,” says Sango.  “In fact, your whole apartment is so clean it should be featured in some magazine.  Why you’d even put Martha Stewart to shame.  Why are you so anxious about it anyway?  Not expecting someone special to come by, are you?”

 

 

 

“Not that I know of.  It’s just cleaning keeps my mind off… certain things,” replies Kagome quietly.

 

 

 

“Oh.  And what things would that be?”

 

 

 

“Houjo, for one.”

 

 

 

“That bastard’s started bothering you again?” asks Sango concerned.  “Kagome.”

 

 

 

“He’s never stopped?  He’s like an alarm clock.”

 

 

 

“Well, tell the creep to get lost Kagome?  Tell him you’re just not interested.”

 

 

 

“Don’t you think I’ve tried doing just that?  I’d even threatened him with a restraining order.  But Houjo just won’t listen to me.  He still calls here every day, saying stuff like how great our future’s going to be, our family.  He just can’t get it through that sick head of his that I’m not interested in that sort of thing…not with him at least.  Then the very next morning, Sango, he calls again spouting the same old rhetoric.  He’s like a broken record, stuck on the same song.  It’s maddening.”

 

 

 

“He does sound persistent.”

 

 

 

“Houjo’s persistent, alright.  Annoyingly so.  He’s a married man, Sango.  He’s unavailable yet he keeps calling me, insisting we’re meant to be together.  Even told me his wife wouldn’t be a problem, whatever that means.  Now I’m afraid to answer my phone, or the door.”

 

 

 

“Why can’t you just hang up on him Kagome?  Do it enough times, he should get the message, right?”

 

 

 

“You’d think so, but no,” replies Kagome with a sigh.  “If he can’t reach my by phone, he’ll just come over here and I’m afraid of what he’ll do to me if he does.”

 

 

 

“That’s really rough.”

 

 

 

“I’m really hoping Sango, that if I talk to him, just give him time, he’ll get bored of chasing me.  But as persistent as he’s been lately, I don’t think, that will ever happen.”

 

 

 

“When was the last time he’s called?”

 

 

 

“This morning of course.  If it’s not my headaches then it him.  Houjo wakes me up with his phone calls, causing my head to hurt worse.  He told, me this morning, to expect him, that he would be coming by soon, so I don’t dare go anywhere anymore.”

 

 

 

“Because of him?”

 

 

 

“Um hm.  I don’t want to be beaten up Sango.  Not again.  And Houjo, he makes me so nervous anymore, I get sick just from hearing my phone ring.”

 

 

 

“Who can blame you?” says Sango.  “The prick almost killed you the last time he’s been here.  And there’s no telling how rough he’ll be on you next time.”

 

 

 

“Guess I should count myself lucky huh?  I’m not dead yet.”

 

 

 

“We can all be thankful for that,” replies Sango with a nod.  “Still if you ask me Kagome, you shouldn’t let that bastard hold you hostage, like this.  This is your home.”

 

 

 

“I know that, Sango but what else can I do?  I’ve told him not to call here anymore.  I’ve tried standing up to him.  Even threatened to call the police but no matter what I do or say, I always end up being beaten.  What if he decides to rape me, or worse?  I’m terrified of him Sango.  Really terrified.”

 

 

 

“You have every reason to be, Kagome.  Still you should remember what that doctor told you that day at the mall?” 

 

 

 

“You’re talking about the man who bought the water right?”

 

 

 

“That’s right.  He said for you to rest, didn’t he, that you should start taking it easy?”

 

 

 

“He did.  But really Sango, don’t think he meant me to get this much rest.”

 

 

 

“Maybe but…well the day when you stopped answering your door Kagome, I got the feeling that maybe he was right…that you are overdoing it and was getting sick because of it.  I’m starting to get really worried about you, Kagome.  Reall worried that you’ll end up killing yourself if you continue like this.”

 

 

 

“I’m only trying to avoid Houjo, Sango, that’s all.  I don’t want him getting in here anymore.  I won’t be able to control my fear if he does.  And there’s no doubt in my mind he’ll take advantage of my weakness, and force me to submit.”

 

 

 

“Oh no he won’t Kagome,” says Sango angrily.  “Whenever that bastard comes near you again, I’ll stop him from hurting you.  I’ll be damn sure to have that key on me, so the next time that bastard decides to visit again, I’ll get in and I will protect you.  That bastard won’t know what hit him once he finds out I’m no pushover.  So, you needn’t worry anymore, ok?  I’ve got your back.”

 

 

 

Kagome slightly smiles.  “Thanks Sango.  More coffee?”

 

 

 

“Sure.”

 

 

 

Kagome walks over to get the carafe.  “I really hope you didn’t think I was snubbing you or anything.”

 

 

 

“Nah,” replies Sango with a slight wave of her hand.  “Not you.  You couldn’t snub anyone if you tried.”

 

 

 

“Well,” Kagome pours coffee into Sango’s cup and returns the carafe to its machine to keep warm.  “I wouldn’t be having this problem with Houjo if I could snub him.  But that man won’t be ignored.  I really do hate saying this about anyone Sango, but I wish Houjo would just disappear.”

 

 

 

“Hey I hear ya.  He’s nothing but scum and you don’t need any of his bullshit.”  Kagome takes her seat at the table.  “Say um, Kagome,” says Sango.

 

 

 

“Did you want cream in your coffee?  I know you usually drink it black but you might…”

 

 

 

“Oh the coffee’s fine.  I’m just thinking of going to the mall today to buy a new dress.  Wanna come out with me?  There’s a great shoe sale going on at Picanny’s.  Two pairs for the price of one.  We can make a day of it and it won’t hurt you to get out for a while.”

 

 

 

“Picanny’s huh?  Sounds tempting and I do need a new pair of shoes, but I don’t seem to have any energy to shop.  I might slow you down.”

 

 

 

“That’s ok.  We’ll take our time.”

 

 

 

“Are you sure?”

 

 

 

“Wouldn’t have asked if I wasn’t.”

 

 

 

“I don’t know.  I want to, but I really feel out of it today.”

 

 

 

“That usually happens when you have the flu.”

 

 

 

“Yeah.”

 

 

 

“You know Kagome, if you don’t start taking good care of yourself the flu could do a lot worse than just drain you,” says Sango.  “People been known to die from it.  Besides, you’re not a doctor so it’s really dangerous to try to cure it on your own.  Instead, go see your doctor about it.”

 

 

 

“Seriously?” asks Kagome incredulously.  The woman sitting across from her slowly nods.  “I can’t.”

 

 

 

“Why not?”

 

 

 

“Because, I’d only be wasting his time.  I’ve had the flu before Sango…several times.  It lasts about a week or so, and then I’m fine.”

 

 

 

“So how long have you been going through it, this time?”

 

 

 

“I don’t know.  Three, four, five…maybe six weeks … I think.  One day seems to run into another these days so I’m not really sure.  I couldn’t even tell you what day it is unless I look at a calendar first.”

 

 

 

“Then go see him.”

 

 

 

“It’s not necessary.”

 

 

 

“It sure as hell is.  We’re talking about your life here Kagome.  You can’t just sit around hoping your flu just goes away.  You shouldn’t be taking chances like that.”

 

 

 

“Sango.”

 

 

 

“I mean it!  The flu isn’t the same as a cold.  It can turn into something worse, dangerous like pneumonia if not taken care of and you’re already weak as it is.”

 

 

 

“My doctor’s out on vacation for a month though,” says Kagome quietly.  “And not expected back until the weekend.”

 

 

 

“So?” asks Sango.

 

 

 

“So I can’t go see him.”

 

 

 

“You don’t need to see him exactly.  Just make an appointment with someone else.  I’ll take you.”

 

 

 

“No,” replies Kagome with a slight shake of her head.  “I won’t do that.”

 

 

 

“Why won’t you, Kagome?  You need to take care of this.  And besides, aren’t all doctors the same?  Surely they’d give you the same treatment as your regular doctor would.”

 

 

 

“Maybe, but…well I don’t feel comfortable visiting other doctors without him knowing about it first.  It makes things complicated when I do.”

 

 

 

“Well complicated or not, Kagome, you need to see a doctor.  And the sooner the better from the look of you.”

 

 

 

“You’re not going to let this go, are you?”

 

 

 

“Nope.”

 

 

 

Kagome gives a deep sigh.  “Alright.  As soon as Dr. Inari’s back I’ll make an appointment with him.  But only if this flu gets worse, ok?”

 

 

 

“You do know I’m gonna hold you to that, right?”

 

 

 

“Yeah, I know you will.”

 

 

 

With the argument over for the moment, Sango picks up her cup, and again studies the woman across from her.  “So, what about InuYasha?  Have you heard from him lately?”

 

 

 

“No,” replies the young woman sadly.

 

 

 

“Not at all?”  (Strange.  Miroku said he was planning to come see her.)

 

 

 

Kagome slightly shakes her head.  “It’s been several weeks since I last saw him.  He hasn’t called here and I haven’t called or tried to go see him either.”

 

 

 

“You do want to see him, don’t you?” asks Sango and she takes a sip of her coffee.

 

 

 

“Of course I do, Sango.  I’d love to see InuYasha, know how he’s doing.  But it would seem, InuYasha’s not all that interested in seeing me anymore.  If he was, he would visited me by now.  Besides InuYasha’s getting married.”

 

 

 

“What’s that got to do with anything?”

 

 

 

“Don’t you see Sango?  It’s not me, he’s marrying,” says Kagome shrugging her shoulders.  “He’s marrying someone else and has lost interest in me.  I could die today and he wouldn’t even care.  Besides, it’s good he doesn’t come around anymore.  It keeps me from becoming a nuisance to him and his fiancée.”

 

 

 

“But he’s your friend, Kagome.  And thought good friends.  I’d think he should at least spare a moment of his precious time to talk to you.” says Sango. 

 

 

 

“Yeah, he’s my friend Sango,” says Kagome with a sigh while laying her head on her fist.  “And he should want to talk to me.  But right now…his fiancée’s a little more important to him than I am.  Which is how it should be.”

 

 

 

“That’s no reason for him to shun you like this though.  You have feelings too, right?”

 

 

 

“He’s not shunning me Sango.  Not exactly.”

 

 

 

“Is that right?  Then what do you call it, Kagome when a friend neglects his friends, huh?”

 

 

 

“If it’s because of his fiancée, then I’d call it love …and loyalty.”

 

 

 

“Kagome,” says Sango hearing the pain in her friend’s voice.

 

 

 

“It doesn’t bother me though.  Not much anyway.  He’s happy now and doesn’t want to lose her.  InuYasha’s devoting all his time to her and to her alone, which is how it should be.  And besides, his fiancée might have other ideas about where he can go or who he can and can’t talk to.”

 

 

 

“What?  InuYasha’s henpecked?” asks Sango surprised.  “I never would have guessed that hanyou was so weak minded.”

 

 

 

“No, no, that’s not it at all,” replies Kagome with a small smile and wave.  “It’s his fiancée KiKyo… she takes precedence over me or anyone else, for that matter.  KiKyo’s needs should always come first with him, not mine.”

 

 

 

“Still Kagome…friends?” asks Sango. 

 

 

 

“InuYasha and I will always be friends Sango.  And no matter what happens between us, that will never change.  Besides it’s my fault things are like this.”

 

 

 

“Hm?  How do you figure that?”

 

 

 

“Because it is.  You see the last time, InuYasha came here, KiKyo tried to contact him but he just kept ignoring her.  She may have gotten angry, felt betrayed, since he didn’t call her back right away.  She may have even felt threatened because his visits, with me, were taking time she wanted.”

 

 

 

“Well tough!” says Sango with a curt nod.  “The lady can just get over it.  I mean she’s not the only woman on this planet, is she?”

 

 

 

“Sango.”

 

 

 

“It’s the truth Kagome.  You, me, Miroku…we’re all here and married or not, InuYasha should remember that.  He shouldn’t allow that person stop him from seeing or talking to whomever he wants.  I’m sure he doesn’t say anything about whom, it is she sees, does he?”

 

 

 

“You don’t understand Sango.  InuYasha has no choice in the matter.  InuYasha loves her deeply.  He’s totally devoted and would do just about anything to keep her happy.  He wouldn’t want to take the chance of ruining their relationship by being around me.  And why would he?”  Kagome shrugs her shoulders as she stares down into her cup.  “Can’t really say I blame her though, for wanting him all to herself.  I know I certainly would if it were me.  But it isn’t me and that's how things are.”

 

 

 

“I take it you’ve met her then?”

 

 

 

“Who?  KiKyo?”

 

 

 

“That’s his fiancée, right?” asks Sango curiously.

 

 

 

“Um hmm,” replies Kagome with a nod.  “KiKyo Oni, and no, I haven’t met her.  Don’t want to, either.”

 

 

 

“Why not?”

 

 

 

“Isn’t it obvious?  Knowing InuYasha, Miss Oni must be a really beautiful and sophisticated woman.  I can’t compete with that.  Just look at me.  I’m just a plain ordinary woman with nothing to offer InuYasha.  Not like her.  Meeting Miss Oni would only remind me of that.”

 

 

 

“Oh, come on Kagome,” says Sango setting her cup down.  “Stop selling yourself short.  You may not be as rich as her but you are beautiful.  Both on the inside and out.”

 

 

 

“Seriously, Sango.  You really do need to have your eyes checked,” giggles Kagome.  “It’s plain you’re not seeing clearly enough right now.”

 

 

 

“Ha, ha, very funny,” replies Sango sarcastically.  “It’s true though.  You’re as beautiful as any model, I’ve seen Kagome.  Even more so.  You just don’t see yourself like me and Miroku can.”  Kagome’s eyes widen as she quickly covers her mouth, bolting for the bathroom and knocking her chair over in the process.  Sango quickly follows her.  “What’s wrong?” she asks worriedly as the bathroom door is slammed shut.  “You sick again?”

 

 

 

Concerned, Sango slowly opens the bathroom door, finding Kagome bent over the toilet bowl, emptying her stomach, of the morning’s contents.  Kagome heaves once more then raises her head, quickly grabbing onto the sink to splash cold water on her face.  She looks up in the mirror and frowns.

 

 

 

“Gods, I am pale, aren’t I?” she says turning her face from side to side.  “I look like death warmed over.  No way I can go out now Sango.”

 

 

 

“Sure, you can Kagome.  Some fresh air could do you some good.”

 

 

 

“Maybe but looking like this, there’s no way I can go anywhere now.  So would you mind picking up a few things from the store while you’re out?”

 

 

 

“If that’s what you want, Kagome,” replies Sango worriedly, “though I really do wish you’d let me take you to the doctor instead.  Seems your illness has gotten a lot worse… more so than I first thought.”

 

 

 

“It does, doesn’t it?” says Kagome staring at her reflection.

 

 

 

“Yeah.  It’s almost like you…  Um Kagome?”

 

 

 

“Yeah?”

 

 

 

“Don’t take this the wrong way but, when was your last cycle?”

 

 

 

“Not sure.  Haven’t been keeping tabs on it much,” replies Kagome with a slight shrug.  “Seemed like too much trouble.  Why?”

 

 

 

“Well…I’m probably wrong about this but have you considered that maybe…just maybe you might be pregnant?”

 

 

 

“Pregnant?  Me?”  Kagome laughs waving a hand toward her friend.  “No, no, Sango it just the flu, nothing more!”

 

 

 

“I wouldn’t be too sure about that.”

 

 

 

“Well, I am.  I mean I’ve only had sex once and I haven’t been with anyone except InuYasha.”  Kagome nods her head.  “No, it’s the flu alright.”

 

 

 

“I don’t know, Kagome,” says Sango hesitantly.  “It only takes one time for a woman to get pregnant.  And you’re pale…throwing up every morning…restless and moody.  Those could be sure signs of pregnancy.”

 

 

 

“They could also mean I have the flu.”

 

 

 

“That’s true too, I suppose.  Well listen…while I’m at the store, I’ll pick up a pregnancy test for you, alright?”

 

 

 

“A pregnancy test?”

 

 

 

“That’s right.  So, we can both be sure if you’re pregnant or if it’s really the flu.”

 

 

 

“I don’t know Sango,” says the woman hopefully looking down and rubbing her flat stomach.  Do you really think I could be?”

 

 

 

“It’s a very distinct possibility,” replies Sango.

 

 

 

“Gee pregnant.  I’d always wanted my own child,” says Kagome dreamily, and shakes her head.  “No I can’t…well, go ahead Sango, and get the test.  Though I really don’t think I am.”

 

 

 

“What will you do if you are?” asks Sango. 

 

 

 

“That’s a stupid question to ask me.  I’ll keep him, of course,” replies Kagome with a slight laugh.  “I’d never give up my baby to anyone, no matter what.  But, um…”  The young woman looks down and bites her lip.

 

 

 

“What is it?” asks Sango curiously.

 

 

 

“InuYasha.  How do you think he’ll react if I am pregnant??” asks Kagome worriedly.  “Will he be mad …ask me to get rid of it?”

 

 

 

“From what I’ve seen of InuYasha Kagome,” replies Sango, “he just might surprise you.”

 

 

 

“But he already has a girlfriend Sango.  A fiancée!” says Kagome worriedly.

 

 

 

“So, what?” says her friend slightly shrugging her shoulders.  “That doesn’t mean your pregnancy will go away once he’s married.  And it’s really not all that uncommon Kagome to have a baby out of wedlock these days.  Some women even prefer it that way.”

 

 

 

“But think of Miss Oni,” explains Kagome worriedly.  “She’ll feel InuYasha’s betrayed her somehow.  She’ll hate him, Sango, might even throw him out on the streets, leaving him homeless.  I’ll end up ruining his life if I am.”

 

 

 

“Now you listen to me, Kagome Higurashi,” replies Sango, her voice tinged with anger.  “Stop over exaggerating everything, ok?  So, what if this ruins his life?  What if he’s thrown out?  It’s all on him!  As the saying goes, it takes two to tango and InuYasha’s not so inexperience to not know what he was doing.  So, if you’re pregnant, the child is just as much his responsibility as it is yours.  Besides… it’s not as if you’re going to tell this…KiKyo person, about it, are you?”

 

 

 

“Oh, no never!” replies Kagome with determination in her voice.  “It wouldn’t be fair to InuYasha, if I go back on my promise.”

 

 

 

“Well, then what about InuYasha?”

 

 

 

“What about him?”

 

 

 

“You’re going to tell him, aren’t you?  In case any problems should rise after the baby’s born.”

 

 

 

“I might,” replies Kagome hesitantly, and then she shakes her head.  “Oh, I just don’t know Sango.  I might tell InuYasha but I’d promised not to say anything about what we did that day to anyone.  I only told you because you’re my bestest friend and would never betray me.  Right?”

 

 

 

“Of course I won’t.”  Sango walks back into the kitchen, and picks up her purse.  “I’d better go, now, Kagome.  Miroku’s expecting me for lunch.  You got your list handy?”

 

 

 

“Sure.  Got it right here,” replies the young woman handing Sango a slip of paper. 

 

 

 

“Good.  Now when I leave, I want you to lock your door and go back to bed.”

 

 

 

“I did want to clean some today but I might as well lie down for a while,” replies Kagome and she yawns.  “I’m getting sleepy.”

 

 

 

“Then forget about cleaning and get some rest.  Some of the color may come back in your face if you do.”  Sango looks around her.  “Anyway, this apartment can go at least a month without cleaning.  And you do need a break from it all.”

 

 

 

“Thanks,” Kagome again yawns.  “Sango.”

 

 

 

“You really are sleepy, aren’t you?” 

 

 

 

“Sorry,” Kagome slightly nods.  “That’s ok.  I’m going to the mall today so it will be a while before I get back.  I won’t come over so sleep as long as you want, ok?  Gods know you need it.”  Sango looks down at the list and frowns.  “Um, Kagome?”

 

 

 

“Yeah?”

 

 

 

“Doesn’t seem to be much here.  Are you sure you’ve got everything written down?”

 

 

 

“I’m sure.  That’s about all I can afford at the moment.  My account is nearly depleted and I won’t ask Houjo for money.”

 

 

 

“I’ll give you money, Kagome,” offers Sango.  “You need to eat and take care of yourself.  Especially now if you’re pregnant.”

 

 

 

“I won’t be able to pay you back though, not until I’ll see Roger again,” answers Kagome.  “And you guys do so much, for me, as it is.”

 

 

 

“You haven’t heard us complaining, have you?”

 

 

 

“No, you haven’t said a word about it.”

 

 

 

“So, what’s the problem?”

 

 

 

“You need your money too, right?  If I take it, you won’t have it for the things you want and need.”

 

 

 

“So…who cares?  If it weren’t for you helping us, Kagome, we wouldn’t have the money at all.  We might still be out there living on the streets, if you hadn’t come along when you did.”

 

 

 

“Is that why you help me, Sango; because I helped you guys out?” asks Kagome with a hurt look to her features.  “I helped you because it was cold and raining, and I didn’t want you two starving or get sick out there.”

 

 

 

“Still your apartment seemed so small back then.  You really didn’t have the room or the food for us and then the baby came along.  Plus, you got Miroku that really great job with the supermarket.  You went out of your way Kagome, to help when other people would have just turned their backs and walked away, pretending not to see us.”

 

 

 

“I’m so sorry you had to go through that Sango.  I wish I could have done more.  But as far as Miroku, he got that job himself.  All I did was, recommend him for it.”

 

 

 

“Just the same, we appreciate it.  And remember we’ll always be here for you, whenever you need us,” says Sango turning toward the door.  “I’ll get your groceries and the test, ok?  But before I leave here, are you sure there isn’t anything else you want to add to this list?  I’ll give you the money you need and I don’t mind waiting.”

 

 

 

“That’s all I need, at the moment, Sango,” explains Kagome with a sleepy smile.  “So, go on and have fun shopping, ok?  I’ll see you later.”

 

 

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

 

Early the following morning a young woman stares disbelievingly at a small strip in her hand.

 

 

 

“That’s the third time you’ve looked at it, Kagome,” says Sango smiling as she lifts the cup of coffee to her lips.  “It’s not going to change.”

 

 

 

“It’s…” Kagome eyes wide, slowly looks up.  “Blue.”

 

 

 

“I can see that,” replies Sango trying not to laugh at her friend’s shocked expression.

 

 

 

“It’s saying I’m pregnant Sango,” continues Kagome anxiously and she shakes her head.

 

 

 

“So?  We both knew this might happen.”

 

 

 

“Yeah but…well this can’t be right.”

 

 

 

“Why not?”

 

 

 

“Because it can’t be, ok?” replies Kagome looking worried.  “Maybe…maybe I did something wrong.  Is there another one in the box?”

 

 

 

Sango picks up and looks down into the small container.  “There’s one more strip in here, Kagome but how could you have done anything wrong?  All you had to do was pee on the stick and wait five minutes for the results.”

 

 

 

“I know that, but it just seems too good to be true.  What if it’s not?  I’d really hate getting my hopes up only to be disappointed when the doctor tells me I have the flu.  Give me the other one, ok?”

 

 

 

“All right,” says Sango placing the other strip into her impatient friend’s trembling hand.  “But I think it will come out The SAME WAY!” she yells as Kagome runs to the bathroom and loudly slams the door.

 

 

 

“Honestly…that girl.”  Sango walks to and waits for Kagome to come out of the bathroom and after fifteen minutes, becomes worried and taps on the door.

 

 

 

“Kagome?  Everything all right in there?  Kagome?”  The door slowly opens and Sango stands back watching the young woman slowly walks from her bathroom as if in a daze, tightly clutching the small strip in her hand.  “I was wrong, wasn’t I?” asks Sango worriedly.  “I’m so sorry Kagome.”

 

 

 

Kagome slowly looks toward her worried friend with strange widened eyes, “San…go?” she says trembling.

 

 

 

“Hey, don’t worry,” she replies worriedly while grasping the woman’s shoulder.  “It’s probably better this way.  And at least now you know, right?”

 

 

 

“Sango?”  Kagome swallows hard and looks down at her fist where she’s clutching the strip so tightly, then up at her friend.  She slowly opens her fist revealing the small strip.  “This is blue right?  It’s really blue?”

 

 

 

“Looks blue to me.”

 

 

 

“It’s… blue.”  After a moment of looking dazed and confused, her face brightens.  “I’M PREGNANT!” yells Kagome excitedly frightening the other woman.  “SANGO I’M…I REALLY, REALLY AM PREGNANT!”  Kagome begins dancing around her living room, the kitchen, and around her furniture.  She grabs hold of Sango’s hand, and pulls her along with her.  “I’m pregnant, I’m pregnant,” she happily sings while skipping around, “I’m really, really pregnant.”

 

 

 

“Guess it’s safe to say you found your energy Kagome,” says Sango laughing while trying to keep up with her.  “You seem happy.  Though I was really worried when you didn’t come out right away.”

 

 

 

Kagome stops in mid step, her eyes glowing brightly with happiness.  “Happy?”  She releases her friend, and looks down at the blue strip in her hand, still having a hard time believing it.  “Sango, has got to be the bestest news I’ve gotten all year!  It’s like a…a really early Christmas present.”  She covers her flat abdomen with her hand and smiles.  “Just imagine!  Growing inside this small stomach of mine is a…a living, breathing, tiny little being …just waiting to come into this world to meet me.  It’s a miracle, Sango.”  Kagome looks up excitedly.  “A miracle!  What do you think my baby will look like, huh?”  She grabs her hair.  “Silver or black?  Do you think it will have mine or…or InuYasha’s beautiful golden eyes…or…or…or,” the young woman grabs her ears, “maybe cute tiny puppy dog ears?  Oh, I’m so excited!”  Kagome quickly spins around.  “I’M PREEEEGNANT!”

 

 

 

“We’ll need to find an obstetrician for you first, Kagome,” says Sango watching her friend happily dancing around the room, “one that specializes in demonic birthing.  That shouldn’t be too difficult since there’re so many here, in Tokyo, to choose from.  We can search for one whenever you want.”

 

 

 

“I’m pregnant, I’m pregnant,” Kagome continuously sings, ignoring her friend.

 

 

 

“Did you hear me Kagome?”  Sango smiles while slowly shaking her head.  (You’d think she’d won the lottery or something.)  “So, what about InuYasha?  Are you going to tell him?”

 

 

 

“I’m…”  The young woman again pauses in mid spin.  “You know Sango, I think I will,” replies Kagome excitedly.  “As long as his fiancée doesn’t find out about it, I really can’t see anything that needs to be changed in his life, can you?  He might even be happy for me.  Oh gods Sango!  Can you believe it?  I’m really, REALLY, pregnant!”

 

 

 

“Will you calm down, a little Kagome?” says Sango still attempting to hold in her laughter.  “Save some of that energy for when the baby comes.  You’re definitely going to need it.”  The young woman ceases her dancing, clasping her hands tightly, in front of her, trying hard to contain her excitement.  Sango giggles, “would you care if I told Miroku about this?  I know he’ll be just ecstatic when he hears the news.”

 

 

 

“Sure, Sango go ahead,” replies Kagome excitedly.  “Tell him.  Tell Miss Kaede too while you’re at it.  Shoot, tell the whole wide world, except KiKyo, that is!  I want everyone to know that I’m…I’m P…R…E…G…N…A…N…T.  PREGNANT!”

 

 

 

“So now that you know, what do you intend on doing first… look for clothes…furniture?”

 

 

 

“I don’t know yet!  But I’m calling InuYasha right now and tell him my wonderful news.  I’m going to be a mother again!”  The young woman quickly looks around her.  “Now, where did I put his number?”  Kagome hands are trembling as she quickly grabs and opens her purse.  Then digging deep inside the excited woman becomes frustrated when she can’t find the slip of paper with the number written on it.  “Where is it?!”  She dumps the contents in her purse out, onto the table.  “It’s got to be in here somewhere.”

 

 

 

“Um, Kagome?” asks Sango smiling while pointing toward a small a piece of paper stuck to the refrigerator.  “That wouldn’t happen to be it, would it?”

 

 

 

“Huh?”  Kagome looks up then smacks her head.  “Yeah, stupid me, I put it there so I wouldn’t lose it.”  She quickly snatches the slip of paper from the fridge and runs to the phone.  With shaking fingers, she dials the phone and waits.”

 

 

 

“Ai…?” says a male voice over the line.

 

 

 

“I’M PREGNANT, INUYASHA!” yells Kagome happily, “ISN’T THAT WONDERFUL?!”

 

 

 

“Um, congratulations miss,” replies the voice on the phone, “but, I um think you’ve got the wrong number.”

 

 

 

“Wrong number?” asks Kagome.  “Are you sure?”

 

 

 

“Yeah.  There’s no one here, with that name.”

 

 

 

“Oh.  But isn’t this…” she looks down at the paper in her hand.  “Takashe Motors?”

 

 

 

“I’m afraid not miss,” replies the voice.  “This is Ainiki’s florist.  Sorry.”

 

 

 

“Oh.  Please forgive me,” says Kagome as her cheeks tint.  The young woman hangs up and tries to dial again.  After another three tries, she finally dials the right number and waits.

 

 

 

“Yeah?” comes a boisterous male voice over the line.

 

 

 

“InuYasha?!”

 

 

 

“Noo, this is Kouga.  Yash is finishing up a job right now.  Can I tell him who’s calling?”

 

 

 

“It’s Kagome, but… if he’s really busy, I can call him back later.”

 

 

 

“Kagome huh?  Kagome.  Oh yeah, now I remember you.  You’re that lovely female at the Encounter, awhile back, aren’t you?”

 

 

 

“I don’t know about lovely but yeah, that was me alright,” replies Kagome happily.

 

 

 

“I thought so.  Can’t forget a lovely face like yours.”

 

 

 

“Thanks.”

 

 

 

“Hey, um, about the Encounter, I didn’t mean anything by what I did that night.  I wasn’t trying to frighten you… just having a little fun is all.  So, am I forgiven?”

 

 

 

“Of course, Kouga.  Don’t even worry about it,” replies Kagome with a smile.  “That was quite a night though.”

 

 

 

“Sure was.  Haven’t had that much fun in a long time.  You have a great voice, by the way.  Wouldn’t mind singing with you again sometime.”

 

 

 

“Maybe we will,” replies Kagome. 

 

 

 

“Yeah, um…well say…Kagome?” says Kouga scratching his head.

 

 

 

“Yeah?”

 

 

 

“Would you be willing to go out with me sometime?  You know, like on a date?  You’re a really nice girl I would love to get to know better.”

 

 

 

“Oh.  Um, I’m sorry,” replies Kagome sounding apologetic.

 

 

 

“Hey now, I only ask the cute ones, you know,” says Kouga.  “And you’re the cutest I’ve seen so far.  So, what about Saturday?  I hear there’s a great movie showing downtown.”

 

 

 

“That’s so sweet of you Kouga, and I’m really flattered you’d ask.  Really I am.”

 

 

 

“Ya can’t go wrong, ya know.  Us wolf demons?  We mate for life so when we find a good woman, we snatch them up right then and there.  No grass growing under my feet.  And I know you’d make a great mate, for me.  So, come on.  Go out with me Saturday night, and I’ll be sure to show you a great time.”

 

 

 

“Geez, you make it all sound so wonderful and I’m really tempted to accept.”

 

 

 

I’ll take you to the park if you want.  Have a nice dinner and a movie?  I’ll be the perfect gentleman, I promise.”

 

 

 

“I’m sure you will Kouga.  But I’m sorry.  It’s not possible for me to do it right now.  You see, my days and nights are going to be taken up for quite a long time now.  I won’t have time for dates or anything else.”

 

 

 

“Sure you won’t change your mind?” asks Kouga disappointed.

 

 

 

“Yeah, I’m sure.  And if it’s any consolation, I know I’ll be missing out on a really good time.  So thank you for asking me.”

 

 

 

Kouga deeply sighs.  “Guess it’s my loss, then.  Still, I’m not giving up on you Kagome.  So if you should ever get lonely or change your mind dating, you can always catch me here, at the garage.  Maybe we can still…”

 

 

 

“Who’s on the phone, Kouga?” asks InuYasha entering his office and throwing a soiled towel on his desk, “another customer?”

 

 

 

“No, it’s just that lovely female from the Encounter.”

 

 

 

“Female?” the hanyou asks curiously.

 

 

 

“Yeah, you know.  From a couple of months back… Kagome,” replies Kouga with a smile.

 

 

 

“What?!”  The hanyou says as his ears perk up.  “Kagome?  She’s…  Why the hell didn’t you say so in the first place, dumbass?”

 

 

 

“But you only asked if…”

 

 

 

“Give me that,” commands the hanyou quickly grabbing the phone from the wolf’s hand, “and get back to work!”  The wolf angrily watches the half demon walking around his desk with phone in hand.  “This sure is a surprise, Kagome.  You ok?”

 

 

 

“I’m fine, InuYasha,” says Kagome with a smile.  “It sounds like you’re busy though.”

 

 

 

“Never too busy to talk to you.  So, to what do I owe the pleasure of this call, fair maiden?”

 

 

 

“Well,” replies Kagome a little excitedly, “I’m calling to see if you could come over tonight.  I’ll cook dinner.”

 

 

 

“Would this afternoon be alright?” asks the hanyou.  “I sort of made plans for tonight.”

 

 

 

“Oh, I see.”  The cheerfulness of Kagome’s voice changes to slight disappointment.  “Oh, that’s ok, InuYasha.  I understand.  I really didn’t mean to suggest you put off your plans for me.”

 

 

 

“That’s all right, Kagome,” replies the hanyou.  “I just…”

 

 

 

“Just made plans with your fiancée tonight, right?”

 

 

 

“Huh?  Wh…?”

 

 

 

“I’ve read, in the papers, her wedding plans for your marriage,” says Kagome hurriedly.  “Gonna be a grand event, huh?

 

 

 

“Yeah, um, listen Kagome, I…”

 

 

 

“Miss Oni’s being very secretive about certain aspects of it, though.  Stupid me, of course, you know.  How could you not?  It’s your, wedding.”

 

 

 

“Kagome…” says the hanyou still trying to get a word in edgewise.

 

 

 

“The um… papers didn’t mention who her intended is really.  But it had your picture in it so I know it’s you.  Congratulations.”

 

 

 

“Thanks but …”

 

 

 

“She’s got herself a good man, InuYasha.  The best!  Um…well this afternoon will be fine.  I’ll wait for you to get here.”  Kagome quickly hangs up.

 

 

 

“Wait Kagome!” yells InuYasha as he hears her disconnect the line and slams down the phone.  “Shit!  Of all the…”

 

 

 

“Troubles Yash?” asks Kouga curiously.

 

 

 

“Not yet, wolf,” replies the hanyou.  “Did Kagome say what she wanted?”

 

 

 

“Nope, we just talked about that night, at the club.”

 

 

 

“That’s all?” asks InuYasha worriedly.  “She didn’t ask about me or say anything else?”

 

 

 

“That was our whole conversation, Yash.  Oh, and I did ask her out but…” adds the wolf offhandedly.

 

 

 

The hanyou angrily slams his hands on his desk.  There is a look of danger in is slightly reddening eyes.  “YOU WHAT?!”  InuYasha slowly walks around his desk toward Kouga, growling and flexing his claws.  “Mind telling me that again, wolf, so I can be sure, of why I’m killing your damn ass?!”

 

 

 

Defensively raising his hands in front of him, the wolf backs away.  “Easy Yasha.  Everything’s cool!  I just asked the lady and she declined, that’s all.  Said, she was going to be busy for a while.”

 

 

 

“Busy?”  The anger in InuYasha’s eyes quickly changes to worry.  “With what?” he hesitantly says, “or… with whom?”

 

 

 

“Don’t know.  She didn’t say,” the demon replies uneasily.  “Just said she’d be too busy to date now.  How come you’re so worried about Kagome anyway?  You’re living with KiKyo now, aren’t ya?.

 

 

 

“What?” asks the hanyou snapped from his uncomfortable thoughts.

 

 

 

“KiKyo?  Oh, you know who I’m talking about Yash.  That female you’re living with.  The one you’re soon to be saddled with?  Tied at the hip?  Your future ball and…”

 

 

 

“I get the picture, Kouga.  You sure as hell don’t need to rub it in.”

 

 

 

“I’m not rubbing it in Yash,” replies Kouga with a slight shrug of his shoulders.  “Just reminding you of whom you chose, for mate, that’s all.”

 

 

 

“It’s none of your damn business who I choose for mate, wolf,” growls the hanyou.  “But if you choose to remain in my employ, you will NOT ask Kagome out again.  Am I making myself perfectly clear?”

 

 

 

“Huh!  You think I give a rat’s ass how rich you are?” replies Kouga angrily.  “All your wealth and shit sure as hell don’t give you rights to every pretty female in town.  I happen to be looking for a mate myself and from what I’ve seen of Kagome, that female has a lot to offer a guy like me.  She’s fun, and pretty…every demon’s dream.  Now you’ve already made your mind up about mating with KiKyo.  You’re marrying her.  So don’t go growling at me, when Kagome finally choses me to mate with.”

 

 

 

“You can have any fucking bitch you want wolf.  Even KiKyo.  But you sure as hell can’t have Kagome!” growls the hanyou.

 

 

 

“Hmph!  You can’t make that decision Yash.  Kagome’s her own woman.

 

 

 

“When it comes to Kagome, I can.  I don’t want her around guys like you who fuck any female that bats her eyes at ya.  But I WANT you to finish that Subaru tonight, got it?!”

 

 

 

“Yeah, yeah.”  Kouga angrily walks toward the door.  “Bark all you want, Yash.  You’re not stopping me from chasing her.  And if fortune should smile down on me and I get my chance …make no mistake, InuYasha Kagome WILL be mine!”

 

 

 

“Just… get the fuck out of my office, will ya?!” growls InuYasha angrily throwing a book, hitting the side of the door.  InuYasha heavily sits and leans back in his chair, as the wolf runs out of the office.  He rubs his face and runs his claws though his hair, while giving a frustrated growl.  (Damn it, of all the…  When that damn phone rang, I was sure it was KiKyo calling.  I didn’t want to hear any more shit about that wedding so I told Kouga to answer it.  But was it KiKyo?  Hell No!  It just had to be Kagome.  After all this time, that wench finally decides to call me.  And what’s worse it wasn’t me but Kouga who got to fucking talk to her.  Now he’s chasing her while I’m still stuck in this damn engagement with KiKyo.  Shit!  Haven’t I had enough bad karma for one lifetime?  Give me a fucking break already.  Maybe it’d be better if went out and bought me a damn gun somewhere and, blew my fucking brains out…put me out of my misery.)  InuYasha looks over at the phone and sadly smirks.  “Keh!”  (I’m surprised Kagome remembered me at all, since I haven’t been to see her in a while.  Probably still pissed at me for standing her up four weeks ago.  I wonder what it was she wanted.)  Kagome’s words enter his mind, unbidden.

 

 

 

(You taught me.  Taught me that it’s ok to get close to a man to any man who may come into my life.)

 

 

 

The hanyou’s eyes widen.  (No!  Did Kagome actually call to tell me she’s getting married?  Probably marrying that fucking doctor friend of hers.  I don’t think my heart can take it, if she does.  To lose her like that…)  The hanyou clinches, and slams his fist on his desk and growls.  (Shit!  It’s just not fair, damn it!  I’m the one who took Kagome!  No one should have any rights to her but me.  Another man so much as touching her body?  She’s mine, damn it!  Mine!  Just the thought of someone else taking her, it’s making me want to go out and fucking rip something apart.  But…shit, I just can’t!)  The young hanyou, finally calms down and with a defeated look, lays his chin on the top of his desk.  “Kagome,” he groans.  (Gods, I need her.  I miss her so much, miss the warmth of her body …her scent!  Haven’t had a good night’s rest since the time Kagome and I were in the shower together.)  The young hanyou heaves a heavy sigh.  (Guess I won’t be doing that anymore.  It’s all my fault, I guess.  Should have dropped KiKyo when I had the chance.  I wouldn’t be going through this shit, if I did.  Oh well, guess my life is over now.  No sense in leaving KiKyo now since Kagome won’t be needing my protection anymore.  It’ll be just me and good ole Mr. Daniels from now on.  Maybe once I’m good and drunk, I’ll find that son of a bitch, stealing Kagome from me, and rip his fucking heart out!  Then I’ll grab Kagome, take her far away somewhere and fuck her so damn hard she’ll…)  “Damn it!” yells the frustrated hanyou.  “I can’t, fucking take this shit anymore!  Something’s gotta give!”

 

 

 

InuYasha quickly picks up the phone and dials his number to the apartment.  When no one answers he grabs his keys and jacket and leaves his office to go home.  “Hey, Rishu,” calls InuYasha walking out of his office, “got a sec?”

 

 

 

“Sure boss, what can I do you for?” answers Rishu, wiping his hands while walking toward the hanyou.

 

 

 

“I’m going home, so here,” InuYasha throws his keys.  “Lock up for me, will ya?”

 

 

 

“Sure thing,” says Rishu catching the keys.  “See you tomorrow?”

 

 

 

“I’ll know that once I’m sober!”  The hanyou walks out, gets into his car and drives off.

 

 

 

The wolf demon walks up to Rishu with an angry, confused, look.  “Man, Yash always gave me the keys when he has to go anywhere.  So how come he gave them to you this time?”

 

 

 

“Oh, I don’t know, Kouga,” replies Rishu twirling the keys on his finger.  “Maybe it’s because I haven’t asked any of his friends out lately.”

 

 

 

Kouga growls while angrily narrowing his blue eyes at his smiling friend.  “Rishu?”

 

 

 

“Hmm?”

 

 

 

“You really do piss me off sometimes you know that?”

 

 

 

“Huh?  What did I…?”

 

 

 

“Just go fuck yourself smartass and keep the hell away from me!”  Kouga then walks off in a huff.

 

 

 

~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

 

The young woman slowly puts down the receiver.  (I shouldn’t have called him,) she thought worriedly?  (Guess I really am a nuisance to InuYasha after all.)

 

 

 

“Something wrong, Kagome?” asks Sango, seeing the hurt, worried look in her friend’s eyes.  “InuYasha’s not able to make it or something?”

 

 

 

“Huh?”  Kagome reaches to rub her temples.  “Oh, um yeah.  InuYasha said he’d be by this afternoon.”

 

 

 

“That’s good, isn’t it?  There won’t be anyone around when you tell him your great news.”

 

 

 

“I guess so.”

 

 

 

Sango frowns.  “What’s wrong Kagome?  Another headache?  Want me to get an aspirin for you?”

 

 

 

“No, I’ll get it,” replies Kagome.  She turns, and walks halfway across the floor toward the hallway before falling to the floor, unconscious.