InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Forbidden Fruit ❯ Missteps ( Chapter 7 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: Valeve 
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 09.04.2014 | Pages: 5 | Words: 4.0K | Visits: 546 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 09.04.2014 | Pages: 5 | Words: 4.0K | Visits: 546 | Status: Work In Progress
Chapter 7: Missteps
Kagome screeched, hurling the object in her hand at Inuyasha. He had been so transfixed by the pleasing display of her body that he did not notice the projectile in time to duck, and the bar of soap hit him square in the face.
"What the hell, woman!" He wiped blood from his nose and stomped over to the bath, glowering at the naked girl. "Have you lost your damn mind?"
Kagome stood with her arms crossed over her chest, glaring at the half demon. "Serves you right coming in here when..." She stopped yelling abruptly as she realized what she had just done. "Oh... I..." Hugging herself tighter, her limbs began to shake terribly. What had she done? She just assaulted this man... no youkai... and he could kill her if he wanted. Sinking to her knees in the tub, she pleaded, "Please..."
Sango and Miroku came bursting through the chamber door, having heard Inuyasha yell. They both took in the scene before them, and in an instant, Sango pushed Miroku toward the door. "Out! The lady is indecent!"
"But-" Miroku, for once, was more concerned with the raised voices than a woman's lack of clothes. It wasn't that he thought Inuyasha would do anything brash, but the girl was frightened easily by him as it were.
"I will see to Kagome, go." Sango's tone brooked no argument and so he exited. She turned to Inuyasha, "My Lord, if I may." She could see how terrified Kagome was.
"No, leave... now. Shut the door." His voice held very little anger, but she could see the exasperation in every line of his face.
"I think it would be better if I-"
"Go." It was an order. She had no choice. Sango left the room, shutting the door quietly behind her, but she could not make herself take more than a few steps from the threshold.
Inuyasha turned back to Kagome, her terror washing over him like a cold bucket of water. Reaching for a towel, he grabbed her elbows and lifted her up.
"No, please, I'm sorry. Please, I wasn't thinking." She couldn't bear to look at him and tried to pull herself away. He grabbed her around the waist and hoisted her out of the bath, wrapping the towel around her before she could protest any further.
"Stop. Just stop." Swooping her up into his arms, he strode to the fireplace and deposited her on the winged chair. Throwing a few logs in the hearth, he lit the timber and stoked the fire until he was satisfied. When he turned around, he looked at the woman curled into an awkward ball, her hair dripping. Shaking his head, he went to the cupboard to grab another linen, and then started drying her hair. Gruffly, he told her to turn aside so he could get the long tresses she was leaning on. She complied but held the towel about her for dear life. Once he dried her hair enough that it was no longer soaking the chair, he brought over a robe, draping it over her shoulders. They didn't speak as he helped her stand and slide into the garment.
Kagome let him do as he pleased, afraid to anger him further. As soon as the sash was tied at her waist, she went to return to the seat, but uttered a startled gasp when he picked her up again. Inuyasha moved too swiftly for her to even think of resisting. In a moment she was sitting on his lap in the adjacent chair, his arm securely wrapped around her waist.
Inuyasha enjoyed the feeling of her slight weight against him, reminiscing of the time he first met her. Where was the petite spitfire he'd met that day? She had been acting nothing like herself since the day he brought her home. When she'd thrown the soap at him, he'd caught a glimpse of the enticing wench his mind would not abandon. This accursed apprehension needed to go.
"You have nothing to fear from me, Kagome. I would not harm a woman, and certainly not you. I apologize for startling you when you were... so vulnerable." Inuyasha could not see her face, but her muscles relaxed a bit.
Kagome concentrated her vision on the fire and mumbled, "I'm sorry I threw the soap at you."
Inuyasha chuckled, "I guess I deserved it. Though it is my room." He rubbed his sore nose, but the bleeding had stopped long ago. "You've got good aim."
"I assure you, my Lord, it was luck." Kagome blushed in embarrassment for her reaction.
"Well, I suppose I should take care in the future, for I would hate to have to explain that my wife abuses me so."
Part of her wanted to crawl into a hole, because she felt entirely childish for her reaction. 'How could I think he was going to hurt me when he's been so kind and understanding?' His arm rose from her waist to stroke down her clothed arm, and she found it surprisingly soothing. After a time, she leaned her back further against his chest, her head tucked into his shoulder. 'Why do I allow one terrible memory to fester such a prejudice fear within my soul?'
Inuyasha was amazed as he felt Kagome fully settle against him with little trace of trepidation. Allowing the silence to stretch the hour, he contented himself by inhaling her unfettered scent, so sweet and intoxicating. The glow of the fire played on her delicate features, much like it had the night he had kissed her in the woods. He wanted very much to kiss her again.
Kagome's eyes began to drift closed, and as she fell into slumber, Inuyasha felt as if he'd just won a small battle. Carefully standing, he carried her to the bed and laid her against the downy pillows. Her lips held his eyes, and despite the voice telling him not to push it, he leaned down and lightly pressed his mouth against her own.Thankful that she didn't wake, he crept to the door, pausing once more to look back at the beauty in his bed.
======
Naraku slammed his fist on the table. "Damn it, what do you mean you couldn't find it?"
A thin man, with wiry brown hair, small eyes, and a flat misshapen nose that had obviously been broken more than once, shrugged his shoulders. "What more ya want me to tell ya? We searched every shrine from 'ere to da coast. There ain't been one lick of news on this rock you's lookin' for."
Naraku could feel the vein in his neck throbbing. "Idiots! It didn't just disappear. I want that jewel!" He grabbed the man by his filthy shirt neck. "Get back out there and find it, or you and your worthless gang of imbeciles won't see another dime from me." He released him roughly, pushing him back into his seat. "Don't come back until you have what I want." Naraku got up and stormed out of the tavern. 'I know the Shikon diamond cannot be that far.'
Inu no Taisho had given the great diamond to his late wife, and when Naraku had killed the youkai lord, he should've had his hands on it then. The dog demon was smarter than he'd given him credit for, concealing the diamond or giving it to someone else for safe keeping. It was an immensely valuable gem, worth easily a quarter of the Taisho fortune. He wouldn't have just given it away, and there was absolutely no record of its sale to another.
Once he killed Rinji Higurashi, he thought he'd have an easy time searching the Taisho estate for its whereabouts. Several years later he was no closer to finding it, and now that whelp of a half breed had come back to claim his lands.
Naraku seemed to float swiftly through the dimly lit streets, reveling in his demon speed while no one was the wiser. 'I will find that diamond, amass my wealth, and then I will never conceal my true form again.
=====
Kagome opened her eyes against the light of the morning sun. 'I forgot to draw the curtains last night.' Stretching her arms above her head, she felt the chill of the room on her bare chest. Gasping, she looked down and saw the robe had opened. Drawing it closed, her mind flew back to the night before. She didn't remember coming to bed, which meant... she'd fallen asleep on Inuyasha. A faint blush rose upon her cheeks, but other than feeling slightly abashed, she was strangely unaffected otherwise. Remembering how patient and comforting he had been, how could she feel anything but grateful?
Rising from the bed, she went to the wardrobe and got prepared for the day. After leaving the room, she could hear voices in the dining hall. Upon entering, she could see that everyone had just concluded breakfast, but Inuyasha was not with them.
"My Lady! Good morning to you. Would you like something to eat?" Miroku stood, quickly pulling a chair out for her to sit.
Kagome smiled, "Yes, thank you." She gracefully took the seat. "Might I ask where Lord Inuyasha is?"
Sango examined the woman carefully but saw no signs of her distress from the prior evening. Inuyasha had said she was fine and slept peacefully, but it helped to see Kagome had recovered from her fright. "He left for town early this morning. I am sorry that I do not have any further message, Lady Kagome."
Kagome shook her head, "Oh, it is no worry." Thoughtfully, she added, "Perhaps we could go into the market today, too. We can see if Mr. Hachi is in need of any goods."
"We'd be delighted to escort the Lady into town," Miroku bowed with a large grin.
Sango was glad their Lady was feeling better. "I think an outing would be wonderful. I will see what Hachi wants and tell Shippou to harness the carriage team. We can leave within the hour.
=====
The Taisho landau was a grand carriage with a sleek black body, red and gold trim, and the family crest on either side. The crest was curious; a ferocious looking dog with its tail wrapped around a crescent shaped sword that shone a silvery blue when struck by sunlight. The day was comfortably warm and bright, and so the hoods were drawn. The four horses eased their way through the town square roads.
"Kohaku, let us off here, lad, and take the team to the stable down the road. Come join us for lunch at the Jovial Helm Tavern at the noon hour." Miroku gave the boy a few silver pieces to pay for hitching and refreshing the horses. Kohaku took the coins and bowed to the ladies. "Now my dear ladies, let us be on our way!" He offered his hand first to Kagome and assisted her down the carriage steps before reaching back for Sango.
Kagome tried to ignore the stares of the townsfolk, but she supposed she couldn't blame them. Seeing the coach belonging to the little known Lord was surely enough to illicit afternoon gossip. She refused to acknowledge their steady gazes and whispers might have something to do with her last public outing. 'It would be best if I forget that wretched day.'
As she and Sango leisurely strolled through the vendor booths, she found enjoyment in light conversation with the woman. Miroku had been such a gentleman towards her, she nearly forgot his flirtatious manner, but Sango hadn't, and proceeded to remind him throughout the late morning just how much of a lecher he was. With their purchases in hand, they arrived at the tavern in time for lunch. Kagome found herself famished and eagerly anticipating their meal. Kohaku joined them, and they found a cozy table by the window.
"I'm going to go freshen up. I’ll be back in a moment." Kagome headed towards the powder room, which was down a short hallway just outside the dining area.
"Well, well, if it isn't the half breed's whore," drawled a masculine voice she would find difficult to forget. She paused with her hand on the door.
"Mr. Ookami, I assure you I am no less than Lord Inuyasha's lady, now if you will excuse me." Her departure into the ladies' room was halted by his crushing grip on her arm.
"I can barely smell the mutt on you. Is he not man enough to put you where you belong?" Kagome was not only embarrassed by his crass statement, but she was livid that he dare insinuate Inuyasha was less than a gentleman.
"That is none of your business, sir." She seethed. "Release me at once."
"I suggest you do as the lady requests, Ookami."
The wolf demon turned and growled at the man, "Tanaka, get the hell out of here."
Kagome couldn't hide her relief of Kane's timely interruption. "Mr. Tanaka, would you be so kind as to escort me back to my acquaintances?"
The anger in his eyes faded some as he addressed Kagome, bowing slightly. "I would be pleased to see you to your table, madam." He shouldered his way between Koga and the woman, offering her his arm. She gladly took it, trying not to hold on to the appendage too tightly nor show how disturbed she was by the confrontation with Koga.
"Tanaka, I swear, one day I am going to lay you out flat," the wolf demon threatened.
"I look forward to your attempt." Kane walked away, giving the youkai no further attention.
"Thank you," Kagome whispered.
"You mustn't thank me, my Lady, but please promise me you will take an escort with you from now on."
"I will. I should've asked Sango to accompany me. I wasn't expecting a confrontation." Kagome sighed.
"Your beauty blinds men into ignorance. Naturally, it isn't your fault." Kane offered her a grin. They had reached her table, where he brought her hand from his arm up to his lips for a lingering kiss on her knuckles. "Until we meet again, madam, for you seem unable to keep yourself out of trouble." Kagome blushed deeply, wishing she had a witty retort but her tongue remained still.
Kane addressed Miroku and Sango, "Your Lady was harassed by Koga Ookami on her way to the washroom. I believe it would be in her best interest, and yours," he pointedly glared at the two, "if you do not let her out of your sight."
Sango got up and wrapped her arm around the woman's shoulders. "I'm truly sorry Lady Kagome, please forgive us our lapse in judgment. Are you unharmed?" She sincerely asked, worried Kagome might find marriage to Inuyasha even more difficult if a Koga had hurt her.
Kagome patted her arm, "I am fine, please, and it wasn't your fault." She turned a sour look upon Kane, "And you, sir, should not chastise them."
Kane crossed his arms over his chest, "Well someone should," he grunted.
Kagome dismissed his comment with a wave. Gracing the rest of the group with a smile, she said, "I am incredibly hungry. Shall we carry on with lunch?" When Kane looked as if to leave, she inquired, "Mr. Tanaka, would you like to join us?"
"It would be an honor dining with such exquisite company, Lady Kagome." He finished with a gallant bow, pulling her chair out in invitation. Kagome flushed from his compliment and accepted the proffered seat.
The meal was delightful. Kane Tanaka was charming and entertaining, telling stories about his travels in America. She found herself intrigued by the beautiful landscape he described and thought how wonderful it must have been to see the different sights. The hour passed much too quickly, and before she knew it, the time to depart was upon them.
"I will escort Lady Kagome to her carriage. Would you see to the tab my good man?" Kane tossed a few coins to Miroku and held his arm out to Kagome.
Kagome was almost sad to say farewell, for she had enjoyed his company entirely. He assisted her into the landau, kissing her hand again before releasing her.
His azure gaze remained on hers as he stepped back down onto the street. "Thank you for the invitation, my dear."
"You're welcome, sir." Kagome smiled, but it faded as she recalled their last encounter. He had been so dashing and seemingly intent to win her affections. Then he returned her to Naraku's home and did not even show at the horrid event of her auction. Today, he again turned his charms on her, and she couldn't make sense of his behavior. It was inappropriate to attempt to satisfy her curiosity now, considering she was a married woman, but her heart ached at his betrayal. Did she really want to understand his game? Despite her reservations, she found herself asking, "May I ask you something, Mr.Tanaka?"
"Whatever you desire to know." Kane had watched the emotions flicker across her features; sadness and confusion. His curiosity was peaked.
"Why were you not there when Naraku sold my hand on the block? Why did you leave me to that fate after chasing my affections and proposing in jest?" Kagome looked to her lap and whispered, "You stole my first kiss and treated it as nothing."
Kane felt his heart contract painfully, knowing the sorrow he'd caused her. How was he supposed to answer?Telling her this was only a human visage he used to conduct personal business, and in turn admitting that he and Inuyasha Taisho were one in the same, could possibly erase the meager progress they’d made the night before. No, he couldn’t risk it, not until she grew to trust him enough to accept his apology. He should lie and tell her their brief encounters were an amusing pastime but nothing more; make her forget about Kane Tanaka. Yet, he knew he could not bring that kind of pain to this woman. She deserved so much better than the unyielding infatuation of a fool.
He hadn’t intended on ever being anyone with her but who he was, Inuyasha. It just so happened he was searching out that bastard wolf, to address a complaint about a pack of wolf youkai raiding his warehouse, and found Koga cornering his wife. Kane had no choice in the matter. In hindsight, he shouldn’t have stayed for the meal, but he couldn’t pass up a moment with this girl. With a sigh, he stepped into the coach and shut the door behind him.
“Kagome, it suffers my soul to acknowledge the pain I have brought you. I was not at the roup, because I could not endure watching you be degraded in that fashion.” This was not a lie. He was furious that he could do nothing within the law to stop the proceedings, and he knew from talk around the ale tanks that Inuyasha Taisho was an unpleasant obstacle to Naraku’s ambitions. What they were, he had yet to figure out. Naraku would have not conceded to give his niece’s hand in marriage to the lord, and he certainly would not allow her to Kane. His only chance at procuring her safety, as well as obtaining the object of his affections, was to be discreet. However, Inuyasha could not see her auctioned off like livestock. Otherwise, he probably would have wrung her uncle’s detestable neck until breath no longer wasted itself on the worm.
“You could not watch?” She asked him incredulously. “You sent me back to him! If you would have listened to my pleas, it would never have happened!” Her exclamation was accented by tears, and her voice began to waver. “Why? Why did you not ask Naraku his price to marry me? Was I not worthy enough to be your wife?”
“He would not allow it. The man loathes me. If there had been a glimmer of a chance, I would have.” Kane couldn’t stand to see her break down and cry. Sitting next to her on the seat, he held her, stroking her hair and trying to calm her sobs. “Please, Kagome, you must understand, my hands were tied. There was nothing I could do legally to stop your uncle, not before the roup, nor after. I consulted my lawyer, and he affirmed what I already knew. Naraku would have hunted you down and hung us both. I could not put you in that type of danger.” Kane sighed. “The only option I had was to give you up to a man I knew would take care of you.” Now he felt like a fiend, misleading her like this.
“Lord Inuyasha?” Kagome asked in a wet voice.
“Yes. Any of those men… if they won you… there’s no telling what they would have done to you. Are you not safe from harm at the manor?”
“He takes great care with me,” Kagome replied, using the corner of her gown to dab her eyes.
“I knew he would. You are the most precious prize- strikingly beautiful, impassioned, and so very sweet.” Kane’s voice softened. He lifted her chin tenderly with a finger. “The moment he saw you, he knew he had to have you. I could not begrudge him his desire, for the same burns incessantly inside me.” Her dewy eyelashes fluttered against her heated cheeks. Kane could not help but enjoy the innocence of her blush, or the pout of her lips in distress. Before he could stop and think what his actions might bring about, his mouth was already slanted over hers, tasting the saltiness of her tears.
Kagome grabbed his vest in surprise and inadvertently pulled him closer. Kane groaned, plundering her mouth with his own. Lacing his fingers through the bun at the nape of her neck, he tilted her head gently, delving his tongue between her lips. She should push him away! Her hands would not obey and release the fabric of his vest. His kiss was passionate, causing her to swoon and nearly give in and respond. Finally, she gained the strength of will to push at his chest.
Kane immediately stopped, his blue eyes blazing with unrestrained desire. He placed chaste kisses on her cheeks, eyes, and forehead, all the while whispering over and over, “forgive me.”
Kagome heard the voices of Miroku and Sango and her heart lurched. “Oh, what have I done?” She placed her face in her hands, trying to block out the handsome man who still had his arm wrapped around her.
“Damn it. Kagome, I’m sorry. Please… forgive me.” He released her completely and slid over, opening the door and stepping down. He exchanged words with the pair approaching the landau. If Kagome had been watching, she would have seen the look of death on Sango’s face.
“You did what?!” Sango whispered harshly. “For the love of… you better get your hind end in there and explain everything to her.
“I can’t,” Kane responded dejectedly. “I have to go.” Without another word, he ran off.
Kagome screeched, hurling the object in her hand at Inuyasha. He had been so transfixed by the pleasing display of her body that he did not notice the projectile in time to duck, and the bar of soap hit him square in the face.
"What the hell, woman!" He wiped blood from his nose and stomped over to the bath, glowering at the naked girl. "Have you lost your damn mind?"
Kagome stood with her arms crossed over her chest, glaring at the half demon. "Serves you right coming in here when..." She stopped yelling abruptly as she realized what she had just done. "Oh... I..." Hugging herself tighter, her limbs began to shake terribly. What had she done? She just assaulted this man... no youkai... and he could kill her if he wanted. Sinking to her knees in the tub, she pleaded, "Please..."
Sango and Miroku came bursting through the chamber door, having heard Inuyasha yell. They both took in the scene before them, and in an instant, Sango pushed Miroku toward the door. "Out! The lady is indecent!"
"But-" Miroku, for once, was more concerned with the raised voices than a woman's lack of clothes. It wasn't that he thought Inuyasha would do anything brash, but the girl was frightened easily by him as it were.
"I will see to Kagome, go." Sango's tone brooked no argument and so he exited. She turned to Inuyasha, "My Lord, if I may." She could see how terrified Kagome was.
"No, leave... now. Shut the door." His voice held very little anger, but she could see the exasperation in every line of his face.
"I think it would be better if I-"
"Go." It was an order. She had no choice. Sango left the room, shutting the door quietly behind her, but she could not make herself take more than a few steps from the threshold.
Inuyasha turned back to Kagome, her terror washing over him like a cold bucket of water. Reaching for a towel, he grabbed her elbows and lifted her up.
"No, please, I'm sorry. Please, I wasn't thinking." She couldn't bear to look at him and tried to pull herself away. He grabbed her around the waist and hoisted her out of the bath, wrapping the towel around her before she could protest any further.
"Stop. Just stop." Swooping her up into his arms, he strode to the fireplace and deposited her on the winged chair. Throwing a few logs in the hearth, he lit the timber and stoked the fire until he was satisfied. When he turned around, he looked at the woman curled into an awkward ball, her hair dripping. Shaking his head, he went to the cupboard to grab another linen, and then started drying her hair. Gruffly, he told her to turn aside so he could get the long tresses she was leaning on. She complied but held the towel about her for dear life. Once he dried her hair enough that it was no longer soaking the chair, he brought over a robe, draping it over her shoulders. They didn't speak as he helped her stand and slide into the garment.
Kagome let him do as he pleased, afraid to anger him further. As soon as the sash was tied at her waist, she went to return to the seat, but uttered a startled gasp when he picked her up again. Inuyasha moved too swiftly for her to even think of resisting. In a moment she was sitting on his lap in the adjacent chair, his arm securely wrapped around her waist.
Inuyasha enjoyed the feeling of her slight weight against him, reminiscing of the time he first met her. Where was the petite spitfire he'd met that day? She had been acting nothing like herself since the day he brought her home. When she'd thrown the soap at him, he'd caught a glimpse of the enticing wench his mind would not abandon. This accursed apprehension needed to go.
"You have nothing to fear from me, Kagome. I would not harm a woman, and certainly not you. I apologize for startling you when you were... so vulnerable." Inuyasha could not see her face, but her muscles relaxed a bit.
Kagome concentrated her vision on the fire and mumbled, "I'm sorry I threw the soap at you."
Inuyasha chuckled, "I guess I deserved it. Though it is my room." He rubbed his sore nose, but the bleeding had stopped long ago. "You've got good aim."
"I assure you, my Lord, it was luck." Kagome blushed in embarrassment for her reaction.
"Well, I suppose I should take care in the future, for I would hate to have to explain that my wife abuses me so."
Part of her wanted to crawl into a hole, because she felt entirely childish for her reaction. 'How could I think he was going to hurt me when he's been so kind and understanding?' His arm rose from her waist to stroke down her clothed arm, and she found it surprisingly soothing. After a time, she leaned her back further against his chest, her head tucked into his shoulder. 'Why do I allow one terrible memory to fester such a prejudice fear within my soul?'
Inuyasha was amazed as he felt Kagome fully settle against him with little trace of trepidation. Allowing the silence to stretch the hour, he contented himself by inhaling her unfettered scent, so sweet and intoxicating. The glow of the fire played on her delicate features, much like it had the night he had kissed her in the woods. He wanted very much to kiss her again.
Kagome's eyes began to drift closed, and as she fell into slumber, Inuyasha felt as if he'd just won a small battle. Carefully standing, he carried her to the bed and laid her against the downy pillows. Her lips held his eyes, and despite the voice telling him not to push it, he leaned down and lightly pressed his mouth against her own.Thankful that she didn't wake, he crept to the door, pausing once more to look back at the beauty in his bed.
======
Naraku slammed his fist on the table. "Damn it, what do you mean you couldn't find it?"
A thin man, with wiry brown hair, small eyes, and a flat misshapen nose that had obviously been broken more than once, shrugged his shoulders. "What more ya want me to tell ya? We searched every shrine from 'ere to da coast. There ain't been one lick of news on this rock you's lookin' for."
Naraku could feel the vein in his neck throbbing. "Idiots! It didn't just disappear. I want that jewel!" He grabbed the man by his filthy shirt neck. "Get back out there and find it, or you and your worthless gang of imbeciles won't see another dime from me." He released him roughly, pushing him back into his seat. "Don't come back until you have what I want." Naraku got up and stormed out of the tavern. 'I know the Shikon diamond cannot be that far.'
Inu no Taisho had given the great diamond to his late wife, and when Naraku had killed the youkai lord, he should've had his hands on it then. The dog demon was smarter than he'd given him credit for, concealing the diamond or giving it to someone else for safe keeping. It was an immensely valuable gem, worth easily a quarter of the Taisho fortune. He wouldn't have just given it away, and there was absolutely no record of its sale to another.
Once he killed Rinji Higurashi, he thought he'd have an easy time searching the Taisho estate for its whereabouts. Several years later he was no closer to finding it, and now that whelp of a half breed had come back to claim his lands.
Naraku seemed to float swiftly through the dimly lit streets, reveling in his demon speed while no one was the wiser. 'I will find that diamond, amass my wealth, and then I will never conceal my true form again.
=====
Kagome opened her eyes against the light of the morning sun. 'I forgot to draw the curtains last night.' Stretching her arms above her head, she felt the chill of the room on her bare chest. Gasping, she looked down and saw the robe had opened. Drawing it closed, her mind flew back to the night before. She didn't remember coming to bed, which meant... she'd fallen asleep on Inuyasha. A faint blush rose upon her cheeks, but other than feeling slightly abashed, she was strangely unaffected otherwise. Remembering how patient and comforting he had been, how could she feel anything but grateful?
Rising from the bed, she went to the wardrobe and got prepared for the day. After leaving the room, she could hear voices in the dining hall. Upon entering, she could see that everyone had just concluded breakfast, but Inuyasha was not with them.
"My Lady! Good morning to you. Would you like something to eat?" Miroku stood, quickly pulling a chair out for her to sit.
Kagome smiled, "Yes, thank you." She gracefully took the seat. "Might I ask where Lord Inuyasha is?"
Sango examined the woman carefully but saw no signs of her distress from the prior evening. Inuyasha had said she was fine and slept peacefully, but it helped to see Kagome had recovered from her fright. "He left for town early this morning. I am sorry that I do not have any further message, Lady Kagome."
Kagome shook her head, "Oh, it is no worry." Thoughtfully, she added, "Perhaps we could go into the market today, too. We can see if Mr. Hachi is in need of any goods."
"We'd be delighted to escort the Lady into town," Miroku bowed with a large grin.
Sango was glad their Lady was feeling better. "I think an outing would be wonderful. I will see what Hachi wants and tell Shippou to harness the carriage team. We can leave within the hour.
=====
The Taisho landau was a grand carriage with a sleek black body, red and gold trim, and the family crest on either side. The crest was curious; a ferocious looking dog with its tail wrapped around a crescent shaped sword that shone a silvery blue when struck by sunlight. The day was comfortably warm and bright, and so the hoods were drawn. The four horses eased their way through the town square roads.
"Kohaku, let us off here, lad, and take the team to the stable down the road. Come join us for lunch at the Jovial Helm Tavern at the noon hour." Miroku gave the boy a few silver pieces to pay for hitching and refreshing the horses. Kohaku took the coins and bowed to the ladies. "Now my dear ladies, let us be on our way!" He offered his hand first to Kagome and assisted her down the carriage steps before reaching back for Sango.
Kagome tried to ignore the stares of the townsfolk, but she supposed she couldn't blame them. Seeing the coach belonging to the little known Lord was surely enough to illicit afternoon gossip. She refused to acknowledge their steady gazes and whispers might have something to do with her last public outing. 'It would be best if I forget that wretched day.'
As she and Sango leisurely strolled through the vendor booths, she found enjoyment in light conversation with the woman. Miroku had been such a gentleman towards her, she nearly forgot his flirtatious manner, but Sango hadn't, and proceeded to remind him throughout the late morning just how much of a lecher he was. With their purchases in hand, they arrived at the tavern in time for lunch. Kagome found herself famished and eagerly anticipating their meal. Kohaku joined them, and they found a cozy table by the window.
"I'm going to go freshen up. I’ll be back in a moment." Kagome headed towards the powder room, which was down a short hallway just outside the dining area.
"Well, well, if it isn't the half breed's whore," drawled a masculine voice she would find difficult to forget. She paused with her hand on the door.
"Mr. Ookami, I assure you I am no less than Lord Inuyasha's lady, now if you will excuse me." Her departure into the ladies' room was halted by his crushing grip on her arm.
"I can barely smell the mutt on you. Is he not man enough to put you where you belong?" Kagome was not only embarrassed by his crass statement, but she was livid that he dare insinuate Inuyasha was less than a gentleman.
"That is none of your business, sir." She seethed. "Release me at once."
"I suggest you do as the lady requests, Ookami."
The wolf demon turned and growled at the man, "Tanaka, get the hell out of here."
Kagome couldn't hide her relief of Kane's timely interruption. "Mr. Tanaka, would you be so kind as to escort me back to my acquaintances?"
The anger in his eyes faded some as he addressed Kagome, bowing slightly. "I would be pleased to see you to your table, madam." He shouldered his way between Koga and the woman, offering her his arm. She gladly took it, trying not to hold on to the appendage too tightly nor show how disturbed she was by the confrontation with Koga.
"Tanaka, I swear, one day I am going to lay you out flat," the wolf demon threatened.
"I look forward to your attempt." Kane walked away, giving the youkai no further attention.
"Thank you," Kagome whispered.
"You mustn't thank me, my Lady, but please promise me you will take an escort with you from now on."
"I will. I should've asked Sango to accompany me. I wasn't expecting a confrontation." Kagome sighed.
"Your beauty blinds men into ignorance. Naturally, it isn't your fault." Kane offered her a grin. They had reached her table, where he brought her hand from his arm up to his lips for a lingering kiss on her knuckles. "Until we meet again, madam, for you seem unable to keep yourself out of trouble." Kagome blushed deeply, wishing she had a witty retort but her tongue remained still.
Kane addressed Miroku and Sango, "Your Lady was harassed by Koga Ookami on her way to the washroom. I believe it would be in her best interest, and yours," he pointedly glared at the two, "if you do not let her out of your sight."
Sango got up and wrapped her arm around the woman's shoulders. "I'm truly sorry Lady Kagome, please forgive us our lapse in judgment. Are you unharmed?" She sincerely asked, worried Kagome might find marriage to Inuyasha even more difficult if a Koga had hurt her.
Kagome patted her arm, "I am fine, please, and it wasn't your fault." She turned a sour look upon Kane, "And you, sir, should not chastise them."
Kane crossed his arms over his chest, "Well someone should," he grunted.
Kagome dismissed his comment with a wave. Gracing the rest of the group with a smile, she said, "I am incredibly hungry. Shall we carry on with lunch?" When Kane looked as if to leave, she inquired, "Mr. Tanaka, would you like to join us?"
"It would be an honor dining with such exquisite company, Lady Kagome." He finished with a gallant bow, pulling her chair out in invitation. Kagome flushed from his compliment and accepted the proffered seat.
The meal was delightful. Kane Tanaka was charming and entertaining, telling stories about his travels in America. She found herself intrigued by the beautiful landscape he described and thought how wonderful it must have been to see the different sights. The hour passed much too quickly, and before she knew it, the time to depart was upon them.
"I will escort Lady Kagome to her carriage. Would you see to the tab my good man?" Kane tossed a few coins to Miroku and held his arm out to Kagome.
Kagome was almost sad to say farewell, for she had enjoyed his company entirely. He assisted her into the landau, kissing her hand again before releasing her.
His azure gaze remained on hers as he stepped back down onto the street. "Thank you for the invitation, my dear."
"You're welcome, sir." Kagome smiled, but it faded as she recalled their last encounter. He had been so dashing and seemingly intent to win her affections. Then he returned her to Naraku's home and did not even show at the horrid event of her auction. Today, he again turned his charms on her, and she couldn't make sense of his behavior. It was inappropriate to attempt to satisfy her curiosity now, considering she was a married woman, but her heart ached at his betrayal. Did she really want to understand his game? Despite her reservations, she found herself asking, "May I ask you something, Mr.Tanaka?"
"Whatever you desire to know." Kane had watched the emotions flicker across her features; sadness and confusion. His curiosity was peaked.
"Why were you not there when Naraku sold my hand on the block? Why did you leave me to that fate after chasing my affections and proposing in jest?" Kagome looked to her lap and whispered, "You stole my first kiss and treated it as nothing."
Kane felt his heart contract painfully, knowing the sorrow he'd caused her. How was he supposed to answer?Telling her this was only a human visage he used to conduct personal business, and in turn admitting that he and Inuyasha Taisho were one in the same, could possibly erase the meager progress they’d made the night before. No, he couldn’t risk it, not until she grew to trust him enough to accept his apology. He should lie and tell her their brief encounters were an amusing pastime but nothing more; make her forget about Kane Tanaka. Yet, he knew he could not bring that kind of pain to this woman. She deserved so much better than the unyielding infatuation of a fool.
He hadn’t intended on ever being anyone with her but who he was, Inuyasha. It just so happened he was searching out that bastard wolf, to address a complaint about a pack of wolf youkai raiding his warehouse, and found Koga cornering his wife. Kane had no choice in the matter. In hindsight, he shouldn’t have stayed for the meal, but he couldn’t pass up a moment with this girl. With a sigh, he stepped into the coach and shut the door behind him.
“Kagome, it suffers my soul to acknowledge the pain I have brought you. I was not at the roup, because I could not endure watching you be degraded in that fashion.” This was not a lie. He was furious that he could do nothing within the law to stop the proceedings, and he knew from talk around the ale tanks that Inuyasha Taisho was an unpleasant obstacle to Naraku’s ambitions. What they were, he had yet to figure out. Naraku would have not conceded to give his niece’s hand in marriage to the lord, and he certainly would not allow her to Kane. His only chance at procuring her safety, as well as obtaining the object of his affections, was to be discreet. However, Inuyasha could not see her auctioned off like livestock. Otherwise, he probably would have wrung her uncle’s detestable neck until breath no longer wasted itself on the worm.
“You could not watch?” She asked him incredulously. “You sent me back to him! If you would have listened to my pleas, it would never have happened!” Her exclamation was accented by tears, and her voice began to waver. “Why? Why did you not ask Naraku his price to marry me? Was I not worthy enough to be your wife?”
“He would not allow it. The man loathes me. If there had been a glimmer of a chance, I would have.” Kane couldn’t stand to see her break down and cry. Sitting next to her on the seat, he held her, stroking her hair and trying to calm her sobs. “Please, Kagome, you must understand, my hands were tied. There was nothing I could do legally to stop your uncle, not before the roup, nor after. I consulted my lawyer, and he affirmed what I already knew. Naraku would have hunted you down and hung us both. I could not put you in that type of danger.” Kane sighed. “The only option I had was to give you up to a man I knew would take care of you.” Now he felt like a fiend, misleading her like this.
“Lord Inuyasha?” Kagome asked in a wet voice.
“Yes. Any of those men… if they won you… there’s no telling what they would have done to you. Are you not safe from harm at the manor?”
“He takes great care with me,” Kagome replied, using the corner of her gown to dab her eyes.
“I knew he would. You are the most precious prize- strikingly beautiful, impassioned, and so very sweet.” Kane’s voice softened. He lifted her chin tenderly with a finger. “The moment he saw you, he knew he had to have you. I could not begrudge him his desire, for the same burns incessantly inside me.” Her dewy eyelashes fluttered against her heated cheeks. Kane could not help but enjoy the innocence of her blush, or the pout of her lips in distress. Before he could stop and think what his actions might bring about, his mouth was already slanted over hers, tasting the saltiness of her tears.
Kagome grabbed his vest in surprise and inadvertently pulled him closer. Kane groaned, plundering her mouth with his own. Lacing his fingers through the bun at the nape of her neck, he tilted her head gently, delving his tongue between her lips. She should push him away! Her hands would not obey and release the fabric of his vest. His kiss was passionate, causing her to swoon and nearly give in and respond. Finally, she gained the strength of will to push at his chest.
Kane immediately stopped, his blue eyes blazing with unrestrained desire. He placed chaste kisses on her cheeks, eyes, and forehead, all the while whispering over and over, “forgive me.”
Kagome heard the voices of Miroku and Sango and her heart lurched. “Oh, what have I done?” She placed her face in her hands, trying to block out the handsome man who still had his arm wrapped around her.
“Damn it. Kagome, I’m sorry. Please… forgive me.” He released her completely and slid over, opening the door and stepping down. He exchanged words with the pair approaching the landau. If Kagome had been watching, she would have seen the look of death on Sango’s face.
“You did what?!” Sango whispered harshly. “For the love of… you better get your hind end in there and explain everything to her.
“I can’t,” Kane responded dejectedly. “I have to go.” Without another word, he ran off.