InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ If You Love Something... ❯ Manic Monday ( Chapter 8 )

If You Love Something…

Chapter 6:

Manic Monday

 

“This Inu Taisho would greatly appreciate if you would stop staring at him.” The demon growled at his mate. He continued to fasten his cufflinks with her glaring daggers at the back of his head.

“I'm waiting for the right time.” Izayoi mocked.

Not one of their children had slept at home last night, she didn't even know where the youngest two were, and she was absolutely seething. She'd come home from her book club meeting just in time to see her step son tear down the driveway on his Ducati 1198S dressed in all black leathers and helmet to match the motorcycle. Upon pulling around to the garage entrance, she couldn't help but notice the gaping hole framed by broken wood where her husband's SUV normally sat. The truck, of course, was missing. And if that weren't bad enough, she found the servants scurrying around cleaning and removing debris from that same husband's study. It looked like a bomb went off in there. No-one had seen or heard from Inuyasha all day, but considering his state of mind when he left, it wasn't really a surprise. What was a surprise, however, was the half demon refusing to answer his cell phone.

“A thought just occurred to me, dear husband,”

Lord Taisho growled bracing for whatever sarcastic remark she was about to unleash. She did not disappoint.

“The next time I want some alone time with you, I'll just leave you in charge of the children for a few hours. Who needs a romantic getaway when you can clear the entire house just like that?” she snapped her fingers for emphasis. “We'll save a ton of money by just vacationing at home.”

The Great Dog ground his teeth. His wife was the queen of `I told you so' and she never, ever failed to let you know. Nor did she let anything go.

She laughed, “Tell me again how you managed to alienate all of our children in the same day? They all have very different personalities and hardly have anything in common. Well, except that now they'd rather sleep in the streets than in their own home.”

He was growing tired of this abuse. Surely no other husband put up with this kind of torture for just being wrong! “They are fine… the police haven't come to our door to tell us otherwise.”

At the thought of officers at her door with bad news regarding her angels because her mate was a thick-headed know-it-all with the tact of a bull in a fine China shop, the Lady of the Western Empire growled, “And they better not either. So help me, Inu, if anything happens to them-”

“Do not threaten me, woman.” He shrugged into his suit jacket.

“I'll do more than threaten you!” She called as he fled their bedroom.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

“I don't give a damn if she is pissed!” Ayame snapped. “We made a mistake. Hell, nobody's perfect.”

Houjo laughed as the pair pulled around the McDonald's drive-thru for their daily fast food breakfast. His she-wolf… she dealt with guilt by being mad at the person who was upset with her for being mad at her. The young man in the drivers seat found her antics hilarious.

He shook his head. Some things never change.

“Wait till I talk to her!” she ranted.

“So let me get this straight,” her boyfriend felt like wasting his breath. “You're mad at her for being mad at you? And not just you, but all of us?”

The mountain wolf youkai wrinkled her brow trying to decipher what was asked of her. She smirked once realizing how silly it sounded. Kagome had every right to be more than a little angry with them. “Oh, shut up. Get me a sausage biscuit and large OJ.”

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

“I ain't in the mood for your shit today!” Kouga yelled up the staircase of his home. “If you two miss the bus I'll rip your fucking arms off!”

His twin younger brothers were nothing if they weren't a pain in the ass. It was their senior year in high school. Their guardian, who also happened to be their big brother and taiyoukai of their clan, had suspended their driving privileges for two weeks because of thirteen unpaid parking tickets on the car the twins shared. Of course the boys didn't know anything about them. Keh.

Their parents passed away not too long after the twins were born. With Kouga being the rightful heir, the high council appointed a steward to raise and care for the three pups. Once the young ruler became eighteen, Inuyasha's father helped him achieve custody of his siblings.

They used to be so much fun. Why did they have to ruin it by becoming teenagers?! Seven years had passed since he'd taken on the responsibility.

“My, my.” Ginta appeared at the top of the steps flashing an impish grin. “Somebody's cranky today.”

Wearing nothing but underwear, Hakkaku traipsed past his fraternal twin. “This is not fair! We're seniors for God's sake. What do we look like riding the Twinkie with the losers?”

Pinching the bridge of his nose, the elder wolf struggled for calm. He needed all his focus today and these little worms were pushing it! “Get your Goddamned clothes on! The bus will be here in seven minutes!”

“Man, come on!” The older of the duo, Ginta, whined. “We're sorry, okay? Why are you being such a dick?”

Why do people have kids? Kouga wondered while pulling down the driveway. He left the suburban subdivision with a slight headache. I wouldn't wish parenthood on anyone.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

The red light switched to green signaling entry was possible. The demon returned the plastic card to his jacket pocket and slipped silently into the pitch black room. Pupils dilated to take in the unyielding darkness. Effortlessly, he made his way to another door, hung the bag he'd been carrying on a hook and unzipped it.

His senses told him the other youkai in the spacious suite was seated in the parlor.

“I have the garments you requested, Lord Sesshomaru.” Jaken bowed in the direction his master sat. Then slowly he backed out of the room to return to the limousine and wait for the Dog Prince.

Sesshomaru's long form was stretched on an antique chaise lounge. A fringed pillow hosted his regal head and his eyes were closed. The thoughts that plagued him in the sleepless night continued to haunt him still.

He had seen her.

After leaving his father's home, he'd gone straight to his intended. Those things he'd read… the thoughts of her being injured… he just needed to see her. He didn't know what he was going to say, or where he would begin. He longed to hold her… to surround himself with her aura… to share the many things had happened since he last saw her…

Without knowing why, after parking his motorcycle, Sesshomaru walked around the back of her building and climbed up the balcony. She was home, alone. He could sense it. The remnant scents of those that had visited earlier wafted on the breeze. The half breed was amongst those, but given their fondness for each other it didn't sway the taiyoukai in the slightest. He peered through the open vertical blinds of the sliding glass door.

Kagome was lying on the sectional sofa reading a book. He made a mental note of the new furnishings in her home.

Wearing an old sweatshirt and cotton gym shorts, Sesshomaru thought she was the most enchanting creature he'd ever seen. Absently, she licked her bottom lip while turning the page and he was lost. In that single alluring gesture, she had saved many lives. The beast in him had demanded the blood of all those who took part in trying to convince him that she tried to harm herself, or that she wished to be free of his claim. He knew his father hadn't acted alone. But seeing that small movement, he no longer cared for vengeance. All he wanted was her.

And then she moved…

With a slight shift, Kagome's arm came up to sweep ebony tresses over her shoulder. His perfect eyes squinted as if something was amiss. And then he saw… or rather didn't see… and his heart stopped.

The chain he'd placed around her neck, the bauble he'd searched the world for, the symbol that bound them together, the fang representing his pledge, was gone.

In the darkness of the hotel room, luminescent golden eyes opened. It was true… she had rejected him.

“You have shamed Kagome!” His father's voice thundered inside his skull.

The Demon Lord appeared behind Sesshomaru's eyes. “You are a disgrace!” The apparition accused. “Dishonorable.”

“How could you?!” The other female close to his heart rang in. She glanced at a piece of paper in her hand, then waved it at him with a scowl. “Inuyasha told the doctors she was depressed. That she'd been a, quote, `basket case' since you… because you… That you… you…” Even the phantom image of Rin couldn't finish the sentence. “God, who are you?!” Her eyes glistened with unshed tears.

Everything was wrong. It wasn't supposed to be like this. To be honest, the heir to the western throne hadn't known what to expect once he'd made the decision to return. But it certainly hadn't been this.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

“Good morning, Taisho Enterprises.” Abi bubbled into her head piece. She spun in her chair to flip through the company directory. “One moment please, I'll transfer you.”

“Morning Abi.” Kagome grinned. “Is Lord Taisho in yet?” She needed to speak with him. Rin was still asleep at her apartment. Clearly the girl would not be attending school today. The taiyoukai ought to know that his daughter was safe. And then there was another matter that needed to be addressed…

“Not yet.” The bird demon motioned toward the large double doors leading to her boss's office. “You can wait inside though. He should be here in the next few minutes.”

“Thanks.”

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

“Stop worrying, man.” Hiten watched Inuyasha stare out of his office windows with a large vein sticking out of his neck.

The hanyo, Bankotsu, and Miroku had invaded the thunder youkai's space. They had forty five minutes before they were supposed to be in the conference room.

“It appears something else has come up.” Miroku sighed.

“What now?” Bankotsu threw his hands up. Jesus, what else could possibly go wrong?

“Well, when Myoga brought Inuyasha's clothes by my place this morning, he also had his phone. Apparently Yash simply forgot it in his room.”

“That's a good thing.” Hiten interrupted. “At least you've got it back.”

“Yeah but the thing is,” Ro-Ro continued eyeing the muscles twitching in the half demon's jaw. “He had a million missed calls and voicemails.”

“Get to the point! You're like a fucking chick dragging shit out.” B-Boy griped.

“My Goddamned sister knows.” Spat Inuyasha through clenched teeth. “She left me a message freaking out at about one this morning. She called my phone probably ten times.”

“Aw man!” Hiten lowered his head.

“Fuck me!” Bankotsu shared his sentiment.

“She took off.” The hanyo balled his fist. “I talked to my mom on the way here and nobody knows where the fuck she is. She didn't come home. She's not at school. She's in my dad's Navigator though. Drove it right through the fucking garage.”

“What did your dad say?” the storm youkai's head started to throb.

“Keh. Fuck if I know. He'd already left for work. All I know is if something happens to Rin because of Sesshomaru's shit, there will be hell to pay. I already owe him for Kagome, and that price is high. He just keeps racking it up.”

“Where is he?” Wondered Miroku.

“Don't know that either.” Inuyasha shrugged. “Don't fucking care. Mom said he took off too. I guess him and my dad got physical last night and he left.”

“Morning guys.” Yuka bounced in. “Anybody seen Kagome?”

“No.” was the unanimous reply.

“She's here somewhere though.” Hiten offered. “I caught her scent in the elevator earlier.”

“Well, I just talked to Eri and Sango and they said she hasn't been up to her office. They're watching for her.”

“Ayumi here yet?” Bankotsu asked making the other males snicker. He threw them a look that said fuck off.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Lightly rocking back and forth in the posh leather Lay-Z boy, Kagome rolled her eyes wondering why she answered her cell phone. Her brother was currently in her ear having a range of mood swings. He went from whining and begging forgiveness one minute, to a raving lunatic out for vengeance in defense of the Higurashi family honor the next.

This boy is deranged. She giggled quietly.

“I mean it Kagome.” His present rant began to lose steam.

“Souta, I'm fine. It was a mistake. You all treated me like a glass doll back then, and you didn't know how to bring it up. I understand. I'm just glad it came out before one of you tried to have me locked away.”

“Like I'd ever left that happen!”

His sister chuckled. “Do me a favor though from now on.”

“Sure. Shoot.”

“Just remember things aren't always as they seem. Okay?” After spending the night with a distraught teenager, Kagome had pushed her feelings of betrayal aside - at least for the time being. It seemed more imperative to work on damage control before the world thought she was some looney with a thing for cutting herself.

The young man laughed then. “You got it, sis.”

The woman had just tucked the mobile device back in her purse when the door was thrown open.

“Kagome, dear child!” In a movement faster than she could see, Kagome was pulled up into a bone crushing embrace. “On behalf of my clan, you have my deepest apology. I am so sorry, child. You can never know how troubled I am over this entire situation! Why, why, dear one, did you not come to me?”

His elegant nose alerted him to a change in the human female. Looking down into her face, he noted her bluish tint. She couldn't breathe.

Upon release, her small hand automatically moved to her chest as she gasped for air. Smiling weakly at the demon lord, Kagome noticed the absolute misery on his normally proud face. Only one word came to mind: shame.

Easing her back into the chair Lord Taisho felt the weight of the dishonor bestowed upon this female. She had done a great service to his family in many ways, for many years… and this is how he repays her? By being so oblivious to such an enormous betrayal caused by one of his own?

This woman had literally bled for his mighty house. In defense of Inuyasha, when they were children she, a mere human female, launched herself headlong into a group of males who had attacked his youngest son for just being what he is - hanyo. To this day the Ruler of Dogs doubts a full blooded demoness is capable of fighting with such ferocity.

“Tell me Kagome,” the taiyoukai was on one knee before her, “why did you not come to me? You are like a daughter to me… there is nothing, nothing-”

“My Lord, please,” the beseeching look inhabiting his features made her tear up. To see such a proud, noble creature in such shambles was heart wrenching. “There was nothing to tell you.”

He would not allow her to hide in a shame that was not her own any longer. “It is alright, I know. Through means I am not proud of, I have obtained information involving a private affair pertaining to Inuyasha and yourself, and I am sorry.”

“No, you misunderstand-”

“Inuyasha.” He whispered, speaking more to himself then. Rising quickly and turning away from Kagome, a clawed hand ran through his platinum mane. “What he must think of me… I have failed him at every turn. I have failed all my children.”

Kagome couldn't stand it any longer! She would not let him beat himself up over all this.

“You haven't failed them.” He sensed her approach, and then her hand was on his arm.

“My son has written me off for the last time.” He sighed speaking of Inuyasha. “And heaven knows where my daughter is-”

“Safe.” Cutting him off, Kagome continued. “Rin is safe. She's at my house and she's fine.”

Safe? Stunned into silence all he could do is stare at her with those piercing eyes. Another of my children has found refuge in you, precious Kagome. And my heir dares discard one such as this?

His new rage was quickly extinguished by the overwhelming relief that Rin was unharmed. “Safe?” Escaped his lips in an exhale. His primal protectiveness for the female in his presence grew exponentially. No, the disgrace she has suffered would not go unpunished. Not in the least.

Kagome nodded, “Yes. She was a bit shaken last night… but after a while she settled down.” Looking at the floor like she was about to get in trouble, she all but whispered, “I didn't wake her before I left so she'll miss school today.”

“School?” Lord Taisho wanted to shout to hell with school! His child was safe, and that was all that mattered. He noticed Kagome's nervous movements as she smoothed her navy blue skirt and tugged at the bottom edges of her suit jacket. “That's alright. After last night, I'm sure she needed the rest.” Taking her hand in his, he smiled.

Uh yeah… that reminds me. Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself for this conversation. “About last night-”

*BEEP*

The intercom built into the massive marble desk came loudly to life.

“Lord Taisho, Lord Onigumo has arrived.” Abi's voice announced.

With everything going on in his personal life, the Great Dog had forgotten the brief appointment scheduled with the spider hanyo. The demon moved quickly to the communication device and pressed a button, “Thank you. I will see him momentarily.”

“Yes sir.”

His eyes set once more on the female in his office. There was so much more he needed to say… but one of his own rules flowed through his mind: Personal affairs shall not interfere with business. And it was business that needed to be discussed with his guest in the waiting area.

Sighing, he spoke. “I apologize, Kagome. I must ask that you excuse me.”

She nodded with a smile and allowed the old dog to take her arm and lead her to the doorway. A moment later the two males were behind closed doors leaving her alone.

Ugh! After stamping a Valentino clad foot at the missed chance to clear the air, Kagome made her way to the executive boardroom.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Lord Sesshomaru! It is good to see you again.” Totosai greeted as the taiyoukai strode in.

The prince nodded in acknowledgment and proceeded to his seat directly to the right of his father's chair. He willed his heart to keep a steady pace when his senses were assaulted with summer lilacs. The source, Kagome, was seated at the far end of the room surrounded by her companions.

As bored as bored can be, his hard golden eyes swept over the group. The white wolf flashed her fangs as if to warn him, Sesshomaru, it was laughable. The tall female belonging to Miroku narrowed her eyes from the back row of chairs placed for the small party to observe the meeting. The majority of the males took up the front row, all eyes watching him with disdain.

“Lord Sesshomaru.” Kagura's surprised voice drew his attention. She came through the double doors expertly prancing in six inch spiked heels. “I had no idea you returned.”

When he didn't respond the wind demon smirked. Bet you didn't expect to come home and find out your brother is sleeping with your Intended. This is going to be good. She turned to smile sweetly at the hanyo. She took notice of the barely contained rage on his rugged features. Oh yes, this is going to be good indeed. “Hi Inuyasha.” She cooed.

“Keh. Whatever.”

The other attendants arrived and the meeting got underway as scheduled. But to more than half the occupants in the large space everything went in one ear and out the other. Including the Dog General. As hard as he tried, he couldn't focus. He skillfully hid his lack of attention, of course, but his focus remained on his male children.

The tension in the air was thick enough to choke a dragon.

Licking her lips, Kagura turned her thoughts to something - rather, someone - much more… delectable.

Miroku looked absolutely scrumptious in his black slacks accompanied by a rain forest green shirt and tie. Normally he always greeted her with a wink or some whispered raunchy comment. However, even he seemed uptight today.

Perhaps I'll stop over this evening and give him one of my special massages. The corner or her mouth turned up devilishly at the thought.

“If you cannot control that, perhaps you should excuse yourself.” Naraku whispered sternly to the young woman at his immediate right. He'd caught wind of his daughter's slight arousal instantly. God knew who she was plotting on this time… his eldest child had earned quite a reputation.

Her father went back to listening to Totosai's insipid droning about market shares, or stocks, or some other bullshit she could care less about. The wind witch honed in on the small observing audience.

“Are you okay?”

If Eri asked her that one more time, Kagome was going to scream. “I'm fine.”

Kouga had taken up a position next to her with his arm protectively across the back of her chair.

“If he doesn't stop looking over here, I'm gonna rip his fucking eyes out!” Inuyasha's growl was subsonic so only his youkai companions could hear.

Lord Taisho shot him a look of warning from the head of the table.

Keh! The half demon wanted to laugh. You don't scare me, old man.

Carefully schooled boredom showed on Sesshomaru's face. However, he was anything but. His skin practically sizzled beneath the double-breasted Armani suit as his senses were pushed to their limits. He was searching for something, anything, that would reveal the answers he so desperately sought. Just some small indication from her as to where, if such a place even existed, he could begin.

There was no mistaking it now… she no longer wore the Dog Star. How could he have been so blind?

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

“What was that?”

“What?” A dark brow arched and pointed ears searched for whatever caught her attention.

The couple was relaxing on the soft bearskin rug in front a roaring fire. After a long day of skiing with Inuyasha and the others, the solace of their cabin was a welcome retreat. The taiyoukai was lying shirtless on his stomach with Kagome straddling his rear end lightly massaging his back.

“Let me see something.” Kagome's fingers repeated the movement. The same thing happened causing her to gasp in surprise.

“Oh my God.” She did it again.

“Stop that.” He commanded.

She ignored him and reached out once more squealing in delight when her suspicion was confirmed, “You're ticklish!”

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

“Oh Sess…” Her eyes held the sparkle of a thousand stars. “It's beautiful.”

“As are you.”

He watched as she fingered the fragile object in awe. “Where did you find this?”

“Here.” His tone was husky when he moved her hand to the center of his chest. “I had it made, just for you.”

Kagome melted as the thumping of his heart filtered through her fingertips. Simultaneously, feet lifted up on toes, arms encircled his neck, and she blessed her fiancé with the most passionate kiss he'd ever received.

With much strain - because it was so hard to think, with her lips dancing poetically upon his - one hand slipped to the base of her skull fisting in the midnight tresses, the other reached for the delicate item still clutched in her small hand. It would be a terrible waste if she were to drop it in the heat of the moment.

He had thought of nothing but her while sketching the design on a coffee shop napkin. Soon it had become an obsession. After months of perfecting every minute detail, the sculpture was finally willed into reality. The Prince hoped the piece would convey everything he felt for his Chosen Female… and judging by her reaction, the message had been received.

They would keep it forever… as a reminder of the simplest, purest of loves: the wedding cake topper.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

They needed to talk. Alone. Judging by the rage and accusations dancing in the eyes of those surrounding Kagome, and that damned wolf who dared to touch her in such a familiar way, it would be no easy task. He had much to answer for… and with the lack of a certain token around her neck, so did she.

“What the fuck are you looking at, asshole?”

Sesshomaru snorted narrowing his eyes in challenge at his half brother.

“Keep it up and I'm gonna throw you a beating.”

Abi looked up nervously from her dictation machine. She was joined by a few other demons in the room.

Lord Taisho took a deep breath. He released a small amount of his aura in warning to his sons. He would not have this confrontation here! He was not one to have his family matters exposed to the public. Especially if one of those matters could ruin his dynasty. Things were bad enough without the other Lords learning of Sesshomaru's treachery and deceit against Kagome. Oh, the Inu Ruler had every intention of calling his heir before the High Council to answer for his crimes… but that would be done in the proper time, through the proper channels according to custom.

He was no fool. He knew the only thing keeping Inuyasha in his chair was Kagome. His youngest son would not risk upsetting or embarrassing her under any circumstance. Even if it meant curving his thirst for vengeance for the time being. With any luck, Sesshomaru would not push the hanyo. This meeting was due to wrap up within the hour… all he needed was for them to make it until then. The Great Dog General gritted his teeth and prayed silently.

Unfortunately, it was not to be.

Kouga squeezed Kagome's shoulder and almost caused the magenta stripes on Sesshomaru's face to go jagged.

The wolf was slightly amused. If he didn't know better, he'd swear the inu youkai was jealous. But we all know that isn't true. You're such an asshole. You never deserved her.

Ayame watched Inuyasha's brother and barked a laugh hidden by a fake cough. She sneered at the Dog Prince joining the silent banter. “I can't believe you have the audacity to show your face. I mean, you truly have no honor, do you?”

“Mind your toungue, bitch.” Menomaru snarled.

He hadn't even known the younger taiyoukai was back in town until he walked in. Now he was glad his father, Lord Hyoga, made him come to this stupid conference. His dad would be pissed though because Menomaru hadn't paid one ounce of attention…

“Man, get off his nuts.” Hiten quipped.

“That bitch needs to stay in her place.” Hakudoshi, who sat at Naraku's left, winced when his father reached under the table to discreetly claw his leg in disapproval.

Kouga's teeth flashed, “Remember to whom you speak, boy.”

“Excuse me my Lord, is something wrong?” Tsubaki, the young CEO of a cosmetics company who was currently at the podium, stopped her presentation. She had taken notice of the death glares and protruding veins from a few demons, including the inu taiyoukai himself.

Out loud, so the humans could also hear, Naraku offered, “Perhaps we should take a fifteen minute recess. That is, of course, if it is agreeable to you, Lord Taisho?”

“What's going on?” Sango leaned forward in her chair to whisper to Miroku.

Her boyfriend wasn't certain. But he did know, judging by the constant flexing of Inuyasha's, Kouga's, and Hiten's throats and the flaring of their nostrils, that they had been engaged in a muted youkai conversation. His muscles remained tense just in case he needed act quickly. He hadn't heard one word spoken in regard to the company.

He could feel Sesshomaru's power seeping through his pores. No one else seemed to notice; perhaps it was because Miroku was of holy decent.

“Of course.” The Dog Lord nodded sharply. “Thank you for the suggestion, Naraku. We shall take a twenty minute reprieve.”

Several occupants rose, stretched, and left the room or engaged in light conversations of their own. Lord Taisho needed a stiff drink - he made a beeline for the mini-bar in his office.

“Kagome, are you okay?” Speaking softly, Inuyasha placed his hand on her nylon clad knee and shook it slightly. Her complete silence didn't sit well with him.

Kagura's eyebrow nearly shot off her forehead it was arched so high in shock. She stole a glance at Sesshomaru to see if he'd caught the display. Oh shit. He had.

The natural color retreated from his eyes leaving behind a volcano of sheer rage at the intimate handling of his female. The conference table whined and crackled as razor sharp talons ripped into the edge in front of the extremely powerful, extremely furious demon.

That disrespectful little whore!!! Kagura raved to herself. She couldn't wait for the meeting to end. Oh my God… wait till I talk to… oh my fucking God…

“Hmmm…?” Sapphire irises focused on Inuyasha's face. She offered a weak smile. Her hand rose to stroke his cheek reassuringly. “I'm fine.”

Her eyes held a sad light. But they spoke to her best friend telling him she was more concerned for him than herself.

“You sure, baby girl?” Kouga removed his arm and turned his body slightly to face her. “Want me to get you anything? They've got snacks and sodas out there.”

She gave him the same small smile. They were so sweet to worry over her. “No thanks. I'll be okay.”

Kouga spoke to Inuyasha. “You cool, man?” After receiving a nod that the hanyo had everything under control the wolf rose to follow Hiten, Houjo, and Bankotsu out to the reception area in search of refreshments.

Inuyasha sighed closing his eyes briefly. All he had to do was wait until Kagome wasn't around… then he could beat the hell out of that arrogant asshole once and for all.

For her part, the woman at the center of the entire controversy once again slipped into her own little world. She hadn't taken too much notice of the events going on around her and definitely hadn't been paying attention to the board members.

I hope there isn't a quiz after this. She thought wistfully.

A storm of emotions were warring within her. She decided that the few hours to prepare for seeing her ex hadn't been nearly enough. Oh, she hadn't actually seen Sesshomaru per se… because she refused to look at him. But being in such close proximity after such a long time… after all that happened, was much more overwhelming than anticipated.

And with poor Eri's well meaning are you okay's ever thirty seconds… ugh. It was enough to drive her insane. Her mind decided to block everything out, wrapping her in memories of happier times in her life. The crappy part of that was her ex happened to be the center of many of those recollections.

Stupid brain. Whose side are you on anyhow?

But she didn't cry. No sir. No more tears would be shed for him… or the lost version of them… of what could've been. Nope.

Eventually she shut Sesshomaru out of her thoughts and focused on her friends instead.

~ * ~ *~ * ~* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

An opportunity presented itself when Kagome excused herself to use the ladies room. After assuring her so-called guardians she didn't need an escort they fixed their sites upon Sesshomaru. The Prince completely ignored the attention by engaging in a conversation with Hakudoshi and Menomaru.

Feeling secure that his brother wasn't the least bit concerned with Kagome, Inuyasha and the others made their way to the refreshment table.

Cretins. Sesshomaru masked his aura completely and slipped away. He would see his former intended and nothing would stand in his way.

“Why, oh why, did you come to work today?” Kagome asked her reflection in the mirror of the deserted lavatory.

She'd been in there probably fifteen minutes doing absolutely nothing. Secretly she was hoping they'd forget about her and resume the meeting. Then she could make a mad dash to her office and hide under the desk.

They're youkai. They'll find you. The reflection seemed to answer the thought. She giggled at the image of Inuyasha sniffing her out.

How do I get myself into these situations? She groaned.

Simple: Taiyoukai meets girl, girl falls in love, girl gets duped while taiyoukai gets laid, taiyoukai leaves country, friends go crazy, taiyoukai comes back, friends go crazy, friends think girl is crazy, taiyoukai's sister and father think girl is crazy…

Kagome blinked and genuinely laughed out loud. “Good God… this whole thing is crazy!”

After turning on the faucet she splashed cold water on her face. She decided everyone was too uptight. And if she didn't show her friends she was okay, they'd never relax. Why be concerned with her ex at all? He made the choice for both of them. The past is unchangeable.

“I will love you, and only you, well beyond the end of all things.”

Her new upbeat mood paused. Good job brain! Keep those memories coming! She grumped, then sighed. I wish Sango were here.

Picking up her purse and suit jacket from the counter top she took a deep breath and headed for the door.

“Time to face the music, Kitten.” Her father's voice played in her mind.

Yeah, better get back there before Ya-Ya sends a search and rescue team. Closing her eyes, she pulled open the door and stepped from her sanctuary…

… Only to bump into something hard nose-first. “Omph! Ow.”

“Hn…”

Uh-oh. Kagome stopped rubbing her abused nose and looked up praying she was having a nightmare.

Sesshomaru watched her eyes become wide and frightened. This unsettled him. Did she think he meant to harm her?

“Sorry. Excuse me.” Head lowered and pulse hammering, she tried to walk away.

His gaze caught something when she moved and he none too gently grabbed her arm. Without her suit jacket on he had a perfect view of her arms courtesy of the sleeveless ivory shell she wore.

“Hey! What are you doing?!” she yelped, surprised.

His brows creased at the scar… the scar that hadn't been there when he'd last seen her. Realization hit him in the chest like a wrecking ball. Then it is true… The emotionless façade melted away as his eyes questioned hers begging for understanding.

Kagome looked away. She knew when the muscles in his jaws relaxed he was dropping his guard. Something he did solely for her. She didn't need this… not now. She couldn't handle the puppy dog look only she knew existed. Not after all that happened. But then again, the Sesshomaru she thought she knew turned out to be a complete lie… so why would his so-called exclusive facial expressions be any more real than the rest of his sick practical joke?

“What is the meaning of this?” With his free hand he forced her to look at him.

She tried to pull free. “Nothing.”

“Kagome please,” She gritted her teeth and closed her eyes trying to block him out. “Tell me what has happened.”

The skin on her face where he touched tingled. “Let me go.” She shook her head refusing to open her eyes.

“I cannot.” His voice was deep, but soft as it filtered in her ears.

She wanted to cry.

“I do not understand.” She could feel him shaking his head. “You owe me an explanation.”

Owe? Wrong thing to say, buddy. Her fiery sapphires made themselves visible again. “I owe you?” She jerked her head free of his grasp. “I owe you?”

Sesshomaru had forgotten how quickly her moods could change and was caught off guard.

“Haven't you been paid enough already?”

Paid? He was confused further. Her emphasis of that particular word was laced with venom. “I do not understand.”

“Oh but I do! I understand perfectly well!”

Understand what?! He resisted the urge to shout in exasperation. Her scent shifted again as she tried to free her arm. “I will not release you until you tell me what is going on.”

She knew better… but struggled with his iron grip anyway. Since when did already knowing the outcome ever stop Kagome Higurashi? Never, that's when!

He sighed at her futile attempts to pry his fingers off her arm. Figuring it would be beneficial to let her wear herself out, he simply let her struggle continue and focused back on the welt. It had been deep and required stitches. Did she truly hate him so much?

He didn't have much time. At any moment his idiot half brother would notice his absence and the fact that Kagome still hadn't returned.

“Let go, Sesshomaru.” The small female growled.

Instead, in a bold move, he moved his gripping hand to a higher position on her arm and lowered his head. Kagome squeaked and snatched feebly backwards. He followed, not missing a beat, until her back was literally against the wall. She could feel his breath on the skin of her imprisoned limb and she began to gasp for air.

“What are you doing?!” Her eyes were wild with panic.

Then she felt something hot, soft, and moist trace the inside of her forearm. What the…?! The sensation was repeated twice more before she realized what it was. He's licking my scar?! Kagome froze.

The Dog Prince smirked. Now that he had her attention, “I will ask again, what is the meaning of this?” His tongue slid across the pale line again. “I have been told you purposely harmed yourself. You will explain.”

This again?! Kagome thought through the fog in her brain created by the sparks ignited in her still trapped arm. Ugh!

He rose to his original height and she spoke, “Look, I didn't-”

“Hey asshole!” With a vicious roar, Inuyasha rounded the corner. “Get your Goddamned hands offa her!”

In the split second before they were tackled, Kagome saw Sesshomaru's cold exterior reassert itself. And then the world was spinning as she was jostled violently when the hanyo hit his brother full force. Stars danced before her eyes after hitting her head on a giant potted plant just outside the ladies room door.

Sesshomaru's own claws lengthened while giving up his hold on her arm, nicking her slightly, before engaging his younger brother.

“Kagome!” She was snatched up roughly by some unseen individual, but came crashing down again when that person was hit by the two warring Inus.

“Ro! Bankostsu's down!” Through the roaring of the fighting males and blood rushing to the knot on her head, Kagome recognized Eri's voice. “He tried to get Kagome out of there.”

Hiten raced up the corridor followed by Lord Taisho, the attendants of the meeting, and several other employees. “She's bleeding!” The thunder demon's eyes tinted. Sesshomaru must be out of his fucking mind to hurt her!

“You son-of-a-bitch!” Kouga leapt at the inu prince but was blocked by Menomaru.

“Don't try it, asshole.” The moth youkai warned with a snarl.

Inuyasha was bleeding from his lip and a cut over his eye, but there was no giving up this time. “I'm gonna make you wish you'd never brought your sorry ass back here.” He spat.

The walls shook, dust rained from the ceiling, and light fixtures fell as the two brothers rumbled through the hallway. Snapping fangs and razor sharps claws hit home time after time but neither seemed to notice.

“You dare think yourself my equal?” Sesshomaru caught Inuyasha's fist with a quick move twisting his arm behind his back before slamming him face first into the wall.

The half-demon flexed and twisted, breaking the hold, “I'm gonna fucking kill you.” All the betrayal, pain, and rage of dealing with his so-called big brother's bullshit burst forth giving him more strength. He wasn't fighting for himself… no, he was fighting for Kagome. And he would not let her down again. No fucking way.

“Stop this at once!” Lord Taisho roared to no avail when Sesshomaru crashed through a glass wall followed by Inuyasha. He reached his limit of patience. Shedding his jacket and tie, he knew he'd have to get physical to separate his children. He chuckled while taking a deep breath in preparation of joining the brawl, thinking about how much it was going to cost to repair the building. I should've listened to my wife.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

“Hello?”

“Oh my God, you will never guess what just happened!”

“Judging by the way you're shrieking in my ear let me guess… after all these years, and countless blowjobs, Ro finally left Sango for you.”

“You're such a bitch. No, but I'm serious… this is way more juicy than that!”

“Jesus, you sound like you just won the lottery.”

“No, better.”

“Huh…?”

“Guess who I just saw!”

What's gotten into her? Heh-heh, or who? Okay, I'll bite. “Who?”

“Just guess! You'll never get it!”

“Then why the hell would I guess?! Kagura, I swear to God-”

“Sesshomaru's back!”

“What?! Are you sure?”

“Of course I'm sure, dummy. He and Inuyasha just had a death match at Taisho Towers!”

“What?! Who told you that?”

“No-one told me. I was there! We just left. My dad made me and Doshi leave.”

“What happened?”

“What do you think? Clearly the heir to the throne wasn't thrilled to come home from overseas and find out his Chosen is fucking his brother.”

I can't stand that fucking slut.

“You should've seen the way Inuyasha and that wolf were pawing all over her! And do you think she tried to stop them? Nope!”

“You're kidding.”

“Right in Sesshomaru's face too… I mean all in his face. I thought he was going to rip that half-breed apart right there. It was insane. They tore up the entire floor. Lord Taisho even jumped in.”

“Shut up! He did not!”

“I'm so serious. All I know is there's about to be some smoke in the city… it was just crazy. But I can bet Inuyasha will be at her place tonight. It was sickening the way she was fawning over him after the fight finally got broken up.”

“What did Sesshomaru do?”

“Nothing. You know him… fuck that whore. He didn't even pretend to give a shit. He's Sesshomaru for God's sake, he can get a million more of her. She wasn't good enough for him anyway.”

The gossiping duo continued their conversation awhile longer. One dishing everything that happened and the other hanging on her every word. Events were embellished and twisted, as they often are by those who haven't the slightest idea what they're talking about. Somewhere in the middle of putting together their own outside little version of the Taisho brothers severed relationship, a plot began to form… one that would send the already teetering lives of all those involved completely over the edge.

The air inside the small coffee shop became chilled with malice when a young woman sitting alone in a booth laid her cell phone on the table before her and lifted a steaming mug to her lips.

I bet you really thought you'd get away with this, little Kagome. All those years you pretended to be his friend, to be our friend… you had everyone else fooled, but not me. I always knew you were in love with Inuyasha. You were so jealous of he and I… it was written on your face everyday. You took everything from me… And now, I'm going to destroy you.

Kikyo's eyes matched her evil smile as she mapped out her plan for perfect execution.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~