InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Love In A Library ❯ Chapter 5 ( Chapter 5 )

[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]

Book boy is coming over for dinner. Kagome is completely frazzled. How will she take some unexpected events from her older, non-responsible sister Kikyo?

Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 02.03.2007 | Pages: 12 | Words: 15.0K | Visits: 459 | Status: Completed

“Come on, Naraku!” I pleaded, giving my all in trying to persuade him on leaving the apartment for one night. “It's just one measly little night! Go out and…and…have a drink!”

“Kagome.” He said in a quite stern matter. “I will not leave if you do not tell me what's going on. What? Are you gonna have a party and you're not going to invite your older brother?” I pouted just as he did.

“I would never have a party with out you! I just…I need a night alone.” He eyed me in a way that clearly said `Yeah right. Like when are you never not alone?' which made me angry.

“And what made you choose this night? Why not another night? Like…hmm…this Sunday? I could do then if you want?” I dropped my head in defeat as I stared at the black and purple rug of my living room.

“Okay…I'm having someone over for dinner and I would greatly appreciate it if you would be out of the house while he's here. He's bringing his little girl too.” I watched him consider my words as he nodded his head softly in contemplation. “Besides, I'd rather have you not scare such a cute little girl. It would be a shame if she was shaking in the corner the whole time.” He let out a bark of a laugh, not truly understanding nor appreciating my sarcasm. As if it's ever appreciated with him.

“What would you do if I left?” I bit my lip.

“I-I…we would just have a dinner I made and-” My eyes widened as he smacked his hand over my open mouth, seemingly annoyed that I had chose to speak even IF he was the one to ask the question.

“I wasn't talking about that, Kagsy. I was talking about what you would do for me if I left?” I narrowed my eyes. Bribery. How did I know it was going to come out to this? Oh, right, it was because I was thinking of my brother. He never did anything without a piece of bribery. How do you expect he passed seventh grade? Mom had bought him a video gaming set that he always wanted just to pass. It was clearly unfair and unethical.

“I'll give you ¥10,000 to go buy whatever hooker or drink you want for the night. And I'll give you extra for a taxi fair, so you don't kill yourself on your night out. Deal?” He agreed quickly at my offer by nodding his head excitedly.

“And what time would you like me to return?” He asked sweetly, innocently—the tone I hated from him. I scowled as I fished out my wallet from my purse, handing him ¥12,500 so he wouldn't get anymore on my nerves. He had taken the money from me gladly without any hesitation and stood.

“I want you out by four this afternoon. I'm starting dinner around five and they are coming at seven. We're going to eat, have dessert, and have coffee so I don't want you home until eleven, or better yet, midnight. I know he has a little girl, but I don't know how long the two are going to stay.” He smiled brightly up at where I stood, clad in my pink fuzzy robe with my hands on my hips.

“Why, of course I can make those requirements. But now, why don't you be a dear and make me some of your famous omelet for my breakfast?” I rubbed the bridge of nose with a sigh. I think I had a massive headache coming on.

“Naraku, have you checked a clock? It's almost two in the afternoon. It's far too late for breakfast!” He frowned slightly as he scratched his head.

“Hmm…really? Then why are you still in your robe?” I smacked him over the head with the palm of my head, enjoying the sound of the smack and the way he held his hands to his head in immense pain.

“It's because you have an odd fascination of becoming a Popsicle when I'm sleeping away in my warm bed. I went out this morning to get the groceries that YOU were supposed to buy four days ago, and it finally was finished.” He fired that innocent looking smile back at me, and it only made me want to smack him again.

“I see, yes…I forgot to do that, but why do you think I like being a Popsicle? Hmm?” He stood up from where he sat, and I finally noticed that he was wearing disgusting looking gray boxers and a big t-shirt that said `Hot momma' on the front.

“Let's see…the heat was down to 66 degrees. Do you know how cold that is? I had to turn it back up to 70 when I got home!”

“Why didn't you do that when you woke up?” He asked me smartly, his arms crossed in a `superior' fashion. He liked to pretend that he was of higher status of me, and make me bend to his will. Or he thinks he's bending me to his will. It's better not to hurt his manly pride, or he would be brooding for days.

“Because I was blinded by what, hunger?” I said loudly to him. “When I ask you to do a chore, you will do it! Do you understand me? You can't go by just smooching off me anymore.” I paused slightly as he stood there looking a bit startled that I had jumped so easily at him. “Just be gone by four and I won't have to send you to a hospital.”

“Will do!” He chirped in a good friendly fashion, as if we had these squabbles all the time. Which, in reality, we do. And, in the end, whatever I want done usually does not get done. “So, what are you making tonight for your boyfriend, huh?” I blushed deeply as I threatened to smack him again.

“He isn't my boyfriend…I don't think. Now stop asking me questions and go get dressed decently. Those boxers are disgusting. Why don't you get rid of them?” He smirked as he snapped the elastic band on his waist.

“No way am I getting rid of these baby's. These are my lucky boxers.” I raised an eyebrow in complete defeat. He was absolutely impossible to deal with.

“Your lucky boxers?” I asked. “The only thing lucky about them is that they aren't in the trash yet.”

“No way could you do that!” He cried like a little boy about to lose his favorite toy. “I can pick up any girl I want in these! You are NOT taking that away from me.”

“Perhaps I should…” I wondered out loud. “You did, after all, take me away of the feeling in my toes this morning. Maybe this will return the favor?” I laughed as I watched him scramble to his room, completely forgetting about asking me to make him anything to eat.

“Well that worked…surprisingly.” I dusted my hands of in an animated fashion that I had usually seen on TV when a character finishes a hard task, and started to my bedroom. I briefly stopped by the door, looking down the hall to where Naraku's was. I shook my head as I saw him now listening to music, playing air guitar like a thirteen-year-old would. I had to say, it was quite humoring to watch my brother make a complete fool of himself, but I simply had to ignore him. That or I would get behind of my day, and no one wanted that.

I pulled off my robe and placed a blue sweater on in return. I sighed as I glanced over at my closet, wondering exactly what I should wear for our meeting that we had planned.

“I said something fancy…yet not.” I mumbled, remembering when I had told him the exact time and date it would be on, or rather, the time and date they worked out. I hadn't expected it to be this soon, but I think it was for the better. We were seeing quite a deal of each other lately, more than twice a week. I can honestly say that a couple usually don't see that much of each other…well, unless they lived together.

Back to the problem at hand, I had absolutely nothing to wear. I probably did, but I honestly couldn't think it was something that good for him to see me in. So far this morning I had done the groceries and cleaned up the good parts of the house that needed cleaning, which was an easy task. Naraku, though he had the worst manners, was a cleaning freak, and loved things tidy. You would never expect that he was a complete `Mr. Clean' by the way his room is so trashed up. Yet, my brother did have a way for surprising most people, and that just fit into one of his unique ways of living.

So I had all ready finished the major stuff, besides cooking, and I had an hour or two to myself to do whatever I wished to do. I was thinking about going out and finding a new outfit, but I immediately dismissed that idea. I was a well-known penny-pincher. I disliked buying things that I all ready owned, or having people buy me useless objects that will never come to my use. I had what I needed, and rarely had a few things that I wanted. I did, however, let myself loose once in a while, but today was not one of those days.

I quickly scouted my clothes, not exactly finding anything to my interest. I didn't honestly have that many clothes to pick from, but I had to pick something that I would at least look redeeming in. Besides, I had just enough time to choose, so it would hardly be a problem.

“Hey, Kags!” Naraku called as I heard the doorbell shatter the silence of my room, besides the abnormally loud music playing in Naraku's room. “Answer it, will ya?”

“Sure I'll answer it.” I mumbled as I stepped out into the hallway towards the front door. “Of course Kagome has to do everything around here. You can't just get off your lazy ass and do anything.” As I stopped at the doorway and opened it to see who it was, my face fell and my eyes widened.

“You have got to be kidding me.” There stood my mother in a green skirt and a navy blue top.

“Kagome, we have a bit of a situation.” My mother, one of the most radical and influential people I know, was never one to mess around. So whatever happened must have been serious. The last time she showed up randomly at my doorstep was to announce that my grandfather had died of a sudden and massive heart attack. Otherwise, I was the one to always visit her.

“A bit of a situation?” I repeated, opening the door to allow her in. “What kind of situation?” My eyes widened as I saw a bright little orange head step out from behind my mother's legs. I immediately softened as I saw the boy was close to tears. “Shippou, honey, what happened?” I asked, allowing him to come into my open arms. He sobbed and sniffled as I held him close to me, smiling softly as I comforted him, whispering little nothings into his ears.

“This is the situation.” I heard her say softly, only loud enough for me to hear. This beautiful little boy belonged to my no good sister. I couldn't believe the fact either when I met him years ago; such a cute, kind little boy could never fall from my sisters clutches. He was at a young tender age of six, just a little bit older then Rin. Oh shit…I almost forgot about Rin…

“Oh, my love, you shouldn't cry!” I mumbled as I rubbed his back soothingly. “I though you were a big boy?” My mother shut the door behind her as I heard his sobs quiet down to small sniffles and whimpers.

“Kikyo deserted him.” She whispered sadly as her eyes gazed down at the boy in my arms. “She just dropped him at my apartment without a second thought and took off. I had no clue where she went, but she left a note for me to take care of him.” My eyes hardened as I comforted the child.

“Shippou, you know what might make you feel better?” Emerald eyes stared at me, as he didn't reply. “Uncle Naraku is at the end of the hallway and I know he has a big stash of sweets. Why don't you ask him for some? I know he wouldn't mind giving you some chocolate or something?” He perked up a bit, though I could see the straining sorrow in his eyes, as he got off my lap with a nod. I directed him down the hall, and watched him go.

“She always does this.” I said aloud once he disappeared from my sight, though I didn't look at my mother. “She always seems to screw things up.” More like me up, it seems like.

“Kikyo does have a way for making things complicated.” My mother agreed. “But this time it is over the limit for me. I can't take care of another child. I'm too old. He needs a mother who will love him and take care of him, not an elderly grandmother who is living off her retirement.” I smiled as I noted her face looked wearier than the last time I had seen her.

“How long have you been taking care of him?”

“A week and a half. I can't handle another child Kagome…I was hoping you can.” I sighed as I rubbed my head before letting out a soft bitter chuckle.

“Everything just has to happen today. Great timing, Kikyo. No, really!” I wanted nothing more than to get my hands on that slimy bitch. How could someone just desert a child that they had rightfully adopted? It broke my heart in pieces to see the boy in such a crushed state.

“Kagome, I apologize for this, but you are the only one reliable enough.” She sighed. “Souta is only in his second year of college and I wouldn't even think of leaving him with Naraku.”

“He'd corrupt his mind.” I mumbled as I sat down beside her on the couch. “I guess I have to take him. I love that kid. You know I wouldn't let anything happen to him.” I watched my mother smile at me in relief.

“Thank you, Kagome. I…watch over him until we hear from Kikyo. She left a note saying she couldn't take care of him anymore but maybe if we could talk her through this…” I shook my head immediately.

“No, I don't want to hear a word from her. Let me take care of him, I don't mind. You know I love children, and Shippou is a very nice, respectable young boy. I don't want any part of Kikyo in his life anymore.” My words were rather harsh, but the pain she had placed this little boy through was too much for him to bear. She was a lousy mother, that much was certain, and I could only blame her for the little boy's misery. He didn't deserve to be adopted from a shelter just to fall into the hands of a person who could barely take care of herself, let alone a child as well.

“Are you positive? This is a big change for the both of you.” I nodded in an affirmed matter.

“Yes. I'll raise him as my own. I think it would be better that way.” My mother sighed in a heavy manner before standing up.

“All right. I have to say that I agree with you. Out of all my children, you are the most dependable, Kagome.” She gave me a quick hug in gratitude that I returned simply.

“He'll sleep with me until I go out and buy another mattress. Naraku is taking up the spare room right now…I probably should just give him the couch.” My mother laughed.

“I think that's a lovely idea. Besides, he deserves that anyway. Where is that no good son of mine?” I smiled as I pointed down the hall.

“Drop in and give him a hello. I'm sure he'll like seeing his mommy.” I watched her nod, going to join the others in the room that Naraku occupied. I frowned as I thought of the present situation. I guess I was ready to have a child. I had always been told that I had a certain motherly appeal to me as I was growing up, and I can see that they were right. When I'm with children I have this sense of duty, and a strong will of not letting them get hurt. Is that honestly maternal instinct?

“…Grandma told me I'm gonna stay here.” He whispered, causing me to see that the boy was now next to me in the room.

“Yes, you are, Shippou. You're going to live with me.” The smile I thought that was going to spread on his face didn't come.

“Do you want me here?” He asked. “No one wants me.” The sorrow that I had felt for the little boy earlier crashed over me in a wave. I took him in my arms and sat on the couch.

“Of course I want you here. And do you know why?” He shook his head in response, holding onto the teddy bear that he had in his hands earlier when he walked through the door. “Because you're a special boy, my dear. And I love you to death. Your mom was crazy to leave you all alone.”

“She wasn't my momma.” He mumbled as tears grew in his eyes. “If she was my momma, she wouldn't leaved me.” I smiled softly at his use of language as I kissed his forehead.

“You know, if you let me, I'll try to be your new momma. I'll do everything I can to be with you.” He glanced up at me, causing me to smile. “But I don't have to be if you don't want me to.” He remained in my arms for a few moments before he shakily nodded his head.

“We'll…try.” He mumbled, surprisingly, for I had thought that this current catastrophe with Kikyo would have made him recoil into a shell. I was happy that he was going to open up to me, allow me to take the motherly role that he needed to have in his life. I vowed from that moment forth to be the greatest mother I could be. Maybe not super mom, but a good enough one for the likes of Shippou.

“Good. It'll just be you and me, kid, and maybe even Uncle Naraku too.” I giggled, trying to lift his spirits up. “Think about living with Uncle Naraku, isn't it scary?” The boy laughed as I aimed for his sides, tickling frantically until tears spilled from his eyes. I could see the happiness in his irises, and it made me laugh in joy that I was helping him move on with his life at that moment. It truly did feel good to help someone.

“I was instructed to go get the shrimp's things from the car and then fork over my room!” Naraku whined as he came out of the hall, still dressed the way he was before, with my mom holding a strict finger pointed to the door.

“Just go get it! Honestly, I would expect you to grow past the stage of whining, Naraku Takumi Higurashi! Out!” We giggled as Naraku lowered his head as our mother scolded him, leaving the apartment to go get the suitcase.

“That boy is still thick in the head, after so many years! What am I going to do with him?” She then smiled at me. “Well, I can't say that's my problem anymore since he's living with you now.” I smiled back as Shippou snuggled into my arms.

“Well, luckily he's going to be gone tonight. I'm having someone over for dinner.”

“Not many get the privilege of having one of your home cooked meals, Kagome. And it's a certain someone?” Perhaps I shouldn't have said what I had said. This had perked my mother's curiosity, and when that usually happened, I was persuaded into spilling every last detail.

“It's a man I've been seeing these past few weeks. He's very sweet, I'm sure he won't mind Shippou. He's bringing his daughter with him too. She's just about your age, sweetie.” Shippou nodded with a smile, it seemed that he was happy that he wouldn't be completely alone on his first night staying here.

“Seven years later and you finally find someone? I hardly believe that you randomly picked him up from the streets, or even at work.” I blushed slightly, making both child and mother's eyes go wide.

“We met at the library.” I mumbled.

“You're blushing.” My mother stated, as if it weren't obvious. “Kagome, you never blush.”

“That's because she's in love with the guy.” Naraku chimed as he pulled in the rolling Spiderman suitcase into the living room. “And she doesn't even know his name!” I scowled as I chucked the pillow swiftly at his face, earning him an eye full of little tassels. “She calls him `book boy'.” He continued with a false girly accent that made my eye twitch.

“I do NOT sound like that, you pompous jerk! And I didn't even tell you that I call him that!” He smirked smugly.

“I can hear you call out his name in your dreams sometimes at night. Oh, book boy! Kiss me again except harder!” I shot from my place at the couch for my older brother, but he had all ready managed to make his way to his room and slam the door shut. My mother chuckled softly, amused to say the least as she stood up.

“My, my. Things really haven't changed, have they?” I crossed my arms with a pout on my lips, glancing away from her face. “I have to be going now. I hope you have a wonderful evening with this `book boy' of yours.” She laughed pleasantly again before turning to say her goodbye's to Shippou. It was quite embarrassing when both my mother and my brother laugh in my face about my love life.

She then left with a few thanks and good-byes, saying she would visit later that month. She also left me with a few papers, explaining Shippou's enrollment into a near by school, and quite a lot information I would need to fill out later.

“Tonight, my dear, you'll be sleeping with me.” I said with a smile, as the boy looked at me helplessly, not sure what he was supposed to do in his new home.

“Really?” He asked softly, shyly. Shippou was quite a shy boy, once I really thought about it. It would do him good to meet Rin tonight, for she was not the least bit shy at all.

“Yep. We're going to have Uncle Naraku get out of the spare room so it can be yours. He's actually going to be looking at an apartment in this building.” He had told me a few days before that he was looking for a place, and there was one two floors up with a good view. I had told him to get it, just not to bother me, so that he would be out of my place quickly. I think he is seriously thinking about moving up there, and I think I might help him pay if he doesn't have enough. I honestly do not want him hanging around me all my life, in my own home. I could handle him if he lived somewhere else that was close. It would be much better on my nerves.

“I get my own room then, right?” I nodded as I tapped his nose, making him giggle.

“Why don't you watch some TV or something? We can't unpack you now, so I'll take your things in my room. Why don't you and Mr. Fuzz watch TV while I start cooking dinner?” He stared at me for a moment before nodding.

“You remembered Mr. Fuzz's name.” He mumbled as he hugged the stuffed bear in his arms.

“Of course. I wouldn't forget, would I?” He approached me and enwrapped my legs in a quick hug before flashing me a brilliant smile, and going to the TV.

“Okay…momma.” It was a bit weird at first hearing him transition me from `Aunt Kagome' to `Momma', but I liked the change. I was glad he was putting a good effort into this situation. If he didn't, I wouldn't know what I would do.

I entered the kitchen, set on starting the sauce of the spice-crusted salmon that I intended on making. It called for a certain citrus sauce to be made a bit before time so it could chill, and I planned on making it right away. It was about time for me to start cooking anyway, and I still had no outfit planned.

“This is going to be harder than I thought.” I whispered before starting for a nearby lemon on the shelf.

6:30 P.M.

They were going to be here in thirty minutes, and I'm standing here looking at my closet drawing a complete blank. Honestly, I don't know what has come over me! I'm never self-conscious about my clothing choice! Never ever, ever!

“Why don't you pick the pretty red one?” I glanced at Shippou with a smile as I remembered the last time I wore my red dress. That had been the night I went clubbing with my friend Sango. Once I really thought about it, that wasn't a good night at all. I managed to get ridiculously drunk at the bar, and lip lock with a man with a weird black moustache at the same time. Nope—not a good night at all.

“I don't think so, honey.” I decided with a soft smile as I thought for a moment, trying to pull out some random occasion where a nice dress was concerned. “Hmm…I might actually have one in mind.” I said as the certain dress struck my memory. I dug into my closet beneath a mass of shoes to try to find the brown box I had locked away. As I came across the square object, I pulled it out of its hiding place and sat it in front of me.

“What's that?” He asked with childish curiosity as I blew off the dust, opening the box to reveal a pretty black dress. I ran my fingers over the beautiful fabric as I pulled it out. I looked at it for a moment before holding it up to my body, the straps at my shoulder. He nodded excitedly as I went into the bathroom to slip it on.

It was a very beautifully made dress. It ended about to my knees. The dress was elegant, a Japanese style to it. The material had a certain flow to it as I turned around in the mirror. It was simply beautiful and I scolded myself mentally not wearing it before.

I hadn't worn it because I hadn't had the time to go out anywhere. Mainly the reason I never wore it was because Inuyasha had given it to me on our second anniversary, as a gift. It just never felt right afterwards to wear it, but for this occasion, I felt it was necessary. Book boy was the one who helped me get pass that bad stage in my life where loneliness seemed the only answer. This was a sign to show that I was becoming stronger, in my own way.

“You look very pretty Ka…” He frowned softly. “Mama.” I smiled at him as I sat on the bed.

“Don't force yourself to call me your mom if you don't feel like it. I understand it takes time…so just let yourself get used to the situation. Is that okay? Only call me mom if you really feel like calling me your mom.” He nodded with a smile on his face. I stood from where I sat, pulling my hair up in a messy, yet attractive bun before glancing once more in the mirror.

“I think I' m officially done getting dressed. And you look quite handsome too.” I watched him smile again as he hugged his bear close to him with an adorable smile.

“Who's the girl coming?” He asked quietly.

“Her name is Rin and she likes to play and read stories. You know, she attends this story time at the library every Tuesday and Thursday. I'm going to take you too.” He nodded.

“I'd like that.” I quickly put an apron over my dress and walked out of the room with Shippou at my side. I checked quickly on the salmon that was cooking in the oven before taking out the sauce from the refrigerator. I clapped in delight at the meal I had made.

“What's for dessert?” Shippou asked simply as he looked up at me. My lips parted in shock as the oven mitt dropped out of my hands. How could I forget dessert?

“Oh no!” I cried, taking in a deep breath. “I forgot the desert!” I quickly looked through all of my cabinets to find various things, but found nothing that I could make quickly. But it seemed that someone in heaven had been looking out for me, for I found a box of pocky, which I could easily serve with ice cream.

I walked over proudly to the freezer, happy that I had saved myself at the last minute. As I opened the freezer and glanced it over, my mouth dropped once again in a shocked expression.

“How can this house not have ice cream?” I asked loudly, forgetting that I wasn't in a house so some other might hear me out in the hallway. “For God's sake, I live with Naraku! He lives off ice cream!” I froze as I heard that annoying doorbell for the second time that day.

“They're here!” Shippou said excitedly, making me smile a bit from the daze I was in. I walked over to the door, opening it to find book boy standing there with roses and a bag in one hand, while a little girl's hand occupied the other.

“I'm so glad you're here.” I greeted with a warming smile. It made me so happy that book boy was actually going to be in my apartment and eating my food. Kind of like a real date.

“It is seven o'clock.” He said with a smirk as he ushered Rin inside first. I could hear the little girl talking five words per second, but I couldn't help but ignore some of it (though most I couldn't comprehend). Book boy just looked so handsome. He wore black slacks with a nice blue button up shirt. It might even be a type of silk, though I wasn't sure. “For you, my dear.” He handed me the bouquet of roses, making me totally forget about my dilemma with having no ice cream.

“You didn't have to go through all the trouble.” I blushed deeply as I looked up at him. “They're beautiful.” His eyes sparkled in amusement as he shut the door behind him.

“Rin insisted that I brought ice cream along. It's only vanilla but…” I wrapped my arms around him and pulled him into a tight hug.

“Thank you, thank you!” I cried, bouncing and giggling all the way as I took the bag from him. What good luck I was having tonight! “I kinda forgot dessert. But I found some pocky and we can have the ice cream too?” He raised an eyebrow as I led him into the kitchen, placing it in the freezer so it would keep cool.

“Perhaps it is a good thing that I brought it.” I nodded as I took off the apron, guiding him into the living room.

“Daddy!” Book boy and I stopped as we heard Rin's squeal of delight. She appeared before us with her hand wrapped around Shippou's. It seemed she found Shippou quite easily. I thought it was quite cute that he was holding his dearly beloved stuff bear while Rin held a cute looking stuffed rabbit. It made such a cute picture that I wanted to go fetch my camera so the moment would be saved forever. “You never told me Kagome had a kid!” He glanced at me in clear surprise, for his eyes were widened a fraction.

“I didn't know either, Rin.” I smiled as I saw how excited the little girl looked. It seemed that she didn't want to be completely bored the whole evening, and Shippou was her type of amusement.

“Rin, this is Shippou. Shippou, that's Rin. And this is…” I frowned slightly as I glanced over at book boy.

“And I'm Rin's daddy. It's nice to meet you, pup.” Rin giggled.

“He calls everyone that! Or, he calls me that too.” Shippou nodded silently as he shook book boy's hand gently.

“Shippou is rather shy, but he's a very good boy.” Shippou grinned at me as I patted his head. Before I could say anything else, Rin interrupted.

“Heyya, Kagome, what did ya make for dinner?”

“Some salmon. I hope you both like fish?” She nodded excitedly with a beam on her little lips. She was a talkative child, and I knew more questions were on the way about dinner.

“We both love it, right daddy?” Book boy nodded in agreement as he nudged Rin's head.

“Why don't the pups go off to play? I know you both will get bored with adult talk.” I agreed with a small dip of my head.

“You know, Shippou, if you go into my room I have some games in my closet and some toys from when you would come over. Why don't you go play with those?” He nodded excitedly and took Rin's hand.

“Let's go play!” She giggled with happiness as she tightened her grasp on his hand, making him lead her down the hall.

“Naraku has some cool stuff too! Make a huge mess if you want. It serves him right!” I called with a soft laugh as I heard them squeal in glee at that statement.

“You never once mentioned of being a mother.” Book boy said softly as I turned to look at him.

“Well, truth be told, I'm really not.” I led him into the kitchen, allowing him to sit at one of the stools. Funny how he chose the one where I had finally figured I was in love with him. “Or, I just turned into a mother today.”

“And how did that happen to you, my dear?” I frowned as I picked up the roses he had brought me.

“Well…you've heard of my sister quite a lot. This has to do with her all over again. This time she's not only giving me hell…she dragged Shippou in too.” I smiled sadly as I quickly found a vase in one of the nearby closets. “She adopted Shippou like you adopted Rin…though she shouldn't have. She wasn't really ready to deal with a child, and this just proves it.”

“She leave him to you?” I shook my head softly.

“No. She left him to my mother.” I frowned even more as I thought about the whole incident. “My mother is living off her retirement. She's not the young woman who raised my siblings and me…she's becoming older. Shippou would just cause her to grow more gray hairs.” I plucked one of the rose petals from the stem as I placed them in the water filled vase. “So, since I'm the most reliable, he came to me.”

“I see…that is very noble of you to take him under your care.” I shrugged as I arranged the roses to my liking.

“I can't say it's really noble of me. I love that boy to death. I all ready thought him as one of my own…so lets just say I'm doing what feels right. I want to be Shippou's mother, and he's letting me. It's a great feeling.” He nodded in agreement.

“Yes…having a child consider you a parent does create a nice emotion.” He was silent for a moment. “I couldn't say I enjoyed having Rin look up to me as a parent when she came into my care.”

“Why is that?” I inquired curiously. “I see that you're quite fond of her now.”

“Of course.” His golden gaze made its way up to my eye. “But I wasn't too thrilled to have a daughter. I adopted her from the orphanage because I fell in love with her as sibling would. I wanted her to look at me as an older brother of sorts.” He shook his head. “That was a silly notion. I was younger then and before I knew it I took her under my care—I adopted her. So, technically I was her new father. But the name grows on you after a while.” I smiled at him.

“Would you like anything to drink? I have wine, lemonade, iced tea…?”

“Iced tea would be nice. I don't drink.” I smiled in response.

“You have got to be one of the first men I've met that don't like to drink.” He smirked.

“What kind of people do you know, Kagome?” I laughed at his question as I pulled out the ice tea from the refrigerator.

“All kinds, I'll tell you. But honestly, a lot of men I know like to have a good drink once in a while. I can say I agree. But only once in a while. It's pretty bad when I get drunk…that's only happened twice.” I could see the pure amusement that lurked in his eyes as he heard that I had once gotten drunk, and it made me giggle. He had the air of curiosity floating about him, and I knew I would have to tell him one of my stories.

“Curiosity killed the cat, book boy.” I concluded as I handed him his iced tea. He smiled slightly with a slight blush, seeing that I had caught on so quickly.

“My dear, you must tell me at least one of your stories. How bad are you…when intoxicated?” He was clearly teasing me, and I could feel the warmth rise in my body, mainly the face area.

“Well, the first time I drank I went over the limit…I was in college at that time. My roommate, Kari-san…” I shook my head at the memory. “Oh boy…we managed to get our hands on a large bottle of glue. So, we though it'd be funny to glue all the doors shut. Of people we knew, of course. It was pretty funny the next morning when they couldn't get out. It was very strong glue.” He was certainly amused at my little story, for that glint returned to his eye, and I couldn't help but be pleased with myself. Perhaps I felt it was stupid back then, but now it was certainly paying off.

“Interesting life you had.” He took a small sip of his iced tea. “And honestly I can't imagine you, my sweet innocent little Kagome, committing such a crime.” I nodded in agreement.

“They always say the quiet ones are the most dangerous.”

“Might I remind you that you aren't too quiet?” He pointed out with a small noise that sounded oddly like a snort. It might've been my imagination, anyways.

“It's not like you're much of a clam either. Besides, since I know you quite well I would talk more than I would to a stranger.”

“You're right.” He decided after a short moment. “It makes enough sense.” I heard a loud crash and a thump from back in the hallway. I winced slightly as I chewed the end of my thumb.

“That didn't sound too good.” I glanced warily at book boy, whom in return, stood up.

“Rin?” He called as we both started to where the noise had originated. We entered Naraku's room, only to enter a sea of trash.

“We didn't do anything!” Shippou cried. “I just accidentally tipped over Uncle Naraku's CDs.” I sighed as I pinched the bridge of my nose.

“Come on, you two, get out of this mess. I told Naraku to clean up earlier…of course he ignores me completely!” Book boy looked skeptically over the mess as he then landed his wandering gaze at his daughter. Rin sat on the waterbed, giggling at its squishy-ness.

“You told them they could be in here, correct?” I nodded with a sigh.

“It's Naraku's room. I could honestly care less what's in here. But let me tell you, little boy, I do not want you getting into Naraku's stash.” Shippou nodded as he gave me a tiny salute. I felt book boy's heavy stare at my back. “Stash?” He questioned quietly, not allowing the children to hear. Though, I doubt they would hear for they seemed to have a keen interest in that waterbed of Naraku's.

“Yeah. Naraku always keeps a nice stash of weed.” I said just as quietly back to him, crossing my arms. I clearly displayed the look of sarcasm, and he seemed to recognize it, for he brought his arm around me and led me gently away from the room. As we entered the living room, he placed his lips directly on mine, applying little pressure. He made sure to keep it a long sweet kiss, and I could only applaud him for deciding it.

“I enjoy a woman whom knows sarcasm.” I grinned.

“Oh, trust me, sarcasm knows me well.” I frowned slightly in confusion as he looked around the room, his nose twitching.

“Kagome…” He started. My eyes widened as he looked down at me.

“Oh shit.” I dashed to the kitchen, book boy hot on my trail. When I reached the oven, I opened it only to be met with a burnt looking meal and a cloud full of smoke. It wasn't aflame or anything, I could tell, but the fire alarm was sure to go off. When I heard the first ring of it, I felt tears collect at the edges of my eyes. What a nightmare.

The noise, however, stopped after a moment. I glanced up to see book boy on a chair with a screwdriver in one hand and a fire alarm battery in the other.

“I've always hated fire alarms. Make too much noise, I believe.” I shut the oven numbly with a large pout on my face as my legs gave out to the floor. “It's lucky I found this over by the toaster right away. Perhaps your brother left it out…?” I could hardly take notice of what he said. My mind was revolving around the idea of how much an idiot I was for burning something that I was sure to perfect.

“I can't believe I ruined dinner…” I mumbled, more to myself than to book boy. I felt awful that I allowed myself to get so sidetracked. I let good food go to waste. “I'm such a horrible person.” I heard a squeak of a chair before I felt a pair of two strong arms around me.

“You are not a horrible person.” He whispered to me softly. “Nor have you ruined dinner. We could go out to eat, if you want to…or we could order something to eat here.” I was silent for a moment as I looked at the tiles. I was such an idiot to let this happen…and in front of book boy, no less.

“I don't know…I really wanted to make dinner for you guys. Now it's ruined.” He pulled me up with him gently, looking down at me with pretty amber eyes.

“Kagome, if you really want to make us something…make us a dinner salad.” My lips held a small smile in wonder and confusion. What in the world was a dinner salad? I mean, I know what a salad is and how it's made. But this was the exact opposite the night was supposed to go.

“A dinner salad?” I asked softly. He nodded.

“Yes. You can make a lovely dinner salad for us, and I'll order some take out. Would that satisfy your need to make something for me and Rin?” I nodded softly as he took my hands in his, kissing my fingers with a small smile to see if I would participate in his little plan.

“It'll be the best dinner salad I've ever made.” I mumbled shyly as a smile spread across his lips.

“Good. And, if you'll let me, I'll help you with it.” I nodded.

“It'll be our dinner salad.” He kissed my cheek gently; apparently glad that he had lifted my spirits back up. I stared at the oven for a moment with a pout clearly displayed on my face.

“What smells yucky? Daddy, you didn't burn anything again, did you?” Rin asked as she entered the kitchen with Shippou by her side.

“I did.” He remarked, causing me to blink at him, my head tilted to the side in confusion.

“You're not the one who burnt the food. I was.” I complained, not wanting or allowing him to take the blame for me screwing everything up.

“But I was the one who distracted you from your cooking. Now you go get the ingredients for our magnificent dinner salad and I'll order something from a small place I know. We'll dispose of the burnt food and we'll continue with our night. It's very simple, my dear.” I sighed.

“All right. We'll go with your plan since mine has failed.” I then giggled. “Maybe you could pick up some dessert also since I managed to botch that up as well?” He nodded.

“It'll be a wonderful evening. Not as good as the one you planned, but it'll do. Now step away from the oven. The fish may still be in flames.” I slapped his arm, making him smile slightly at his teasing. I had a fantabulous dinner salad to make, god damn it, and I wasn't going to make a mess of it either.

9 P.M.

“I think this worked out better than we expected.” Book boy commented as I spooned some ice cream into my mouth.

“Yeah.” I commented from the ground in the living room. We had randomly decided not to eat at the kitchen table earlier, and eat out in the living room on the floor. It was much more casual than I had planned, but I had to admit, I liked it better this way. “Your plan worked out. No need to boast over it.”

“I'm not boasting. I'm just expressing how much of a good time I'm having. There is a difference, my little door gluer.” I glared at him playfully. He had made the decision of giving me another new nickname—door gluer. Perhaps that story is coming back to haunt me.

“That's not funny.” I mumbled as I nudged him with my toe. “And because of that, I'm stealing your last piece of pocky.” He scowled at me softly as I snatched the piece of pocky away from him and dangled it in front of my lips.

“Do you want it?” I teased. “I don't know when I might decide to eat it!”

“You could be somewhat generous and decide to share it evenly with me.” I smacked my lips in thought, causing his eyes to narrow.

“I'm not feeling too generous today. Besides, you even admitted you were the one who burned my meal and you gave me a stupid little nickname. I have the right to this piece of pocky so don't try to stop me!” He raised an eyebrow suggestively, causing me to scoot away from him. “And you aren't going to seduce me out of it either so don't even try.” He frowned as he stopped moving towards me and leaned back against the couch like a pouting little boy. I giggled.

“You really want it that badly?” I asked.

“No.”

“You just tried to seduce me for it.” I said, snickering at him as I did so. “Tell me that's not desperate.”

“It's not.” He said, a smile growing on his lips as well. “It's more pathetic than desperate truthfully.” We laughed together at the childishness of it all. It was fun sitting here with him, just fooling around. It made me feel fuzzy inside.

“Here, I'll make you a deal. Give me a kiss and I'll give you a quarter of it.”

“You're cheating me out. I could have half for one kiss.” I shook my head with a smile.

“And why should I believe I'm cheating you out? One kiss for a quarter of it. It's perfectly acceptable.”

“My kiss is worth half. Trust me, I know I am that good.” I thought for a moment as he smirked at me.

“How about you give me a kiss and I'll determine how good it was. If it's outstanding then I'll give you a fourth. And if it's magnificent then I'll give you a half. Deal?” He nodded.

“Why, that seems fair. And if I'm only outstanding you have to promise not to give me the piece that has no chocolate on it. That's just no fun.” I nodded.

“You have yourself a deal.” I thought he would continue to play along, you know, shake my hand to seal the deal, but instead I was met with yummy lips. Hmm…he was always so gentle when he kissed me. I mean he wasn't completely gentle. It varied with his moods. Today he was in a gentle mood, I suppose.

“Now tell me that wasn't magnificent. I had you floating on cloud nine.” I sighed.

“Yes, yes. You were that magnificent. I owe you a half.” I snapped the piece of pocket in half, handing him the end where the first eighth had no chocolate. I saw him frown.

“You promised me the one with the chocolate.” I shook my head as I took a bite of the chocolaty substance.

“No I didn't. You were magnificent, not outstanding. It was only if you were outstanding that you would get the piece covered in chocolate.”

“Touché.” I grinned at my cleverness as I finished off my bit. Rin yawned as she watched TV next to Shippou.

“Looks like one of the little munchkins is tired.” I commented with a giggle. Rin looked back at us as she hugged her stuffed bunny close to her.

“Kind of…” I stood up, taking the dirty dishes to the kitchen sink. When I returned to the living room, book boy was laying in between the two children.

“So what is that guy up to?” He asked as he pointed to the character on the screen.

“Daddy, you know who that is! That's the bad guy, silly. He's wearing a mask!” He nodded simply as he looked at Shippou.

“I guess evil men must wear masks, no?” Shippou giggled.

“Uncle Naraku sometimes wears weird masks!” Book boy cocked an eyebrow as he glanced up at me.

“Letting a bad guy around your child, my little door gluer? Tsk, tsk. I expected more of you, Kagome.” I laughed.

“Oh, Shippou, you'll have to tell Uncle Naraku that. He'll certainly find it interesting.” Book boy stood up gently, bringing Rin up with him.

“You realize we'll have to be leaving soon?” He asked his daughter, making her frown.

“But I don't wanna leave yet. I like it here.” He sighed.

“Kagome, I'll offer you a child. How much would you take her for?” Rin giggled as book boy gripped her shoulders, steadying her in front of me. “This is a once in a life time chance to get a little girl. How much do you want me to give you? I only have a few yen on me now but…”

“I'm not sure.” I said, tapping my finger on my lip. “I all ready have a little boy of my own. How about we trade?” Shippou smiled, attaching himself to her legs.

“Don't give me away, mama! I don't want you to sell me!” I laughed, placing a hand on his head.

“Oh, I'm not going to sell you. I'm sorry, book boy—no deal.” He shook his head with a small smile playing his lips.

“Too bad. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity you just gave up. Maybe I could bargain Jakotsu into it?” Rin shook her head with a squeal.

“No, daddy! I love you and only you!” He chuckled softly, scratching her head, effectively messing up her hair.

“I won't get rid of you, pup. You've seemed to grow on me.” He looked up at me where I stood with Shippou. “We should be leaving after I help you clean up. Someone is way past their bedtime.” I smiled as Rin pouted.

“I am not…”

“You don't have to help clean up. It's fine. You helped me enough as it is tonight. I'll have the duty of washing the dishes.” He nodded simply at my request. I walked them to the door with a sad smile on my lips. I hated to see them go. This night had been so wonderful; I never wanted it to end. It pained my heart. Perhaps I shouldn't have invited them over…it'd make me too attached to the feeling of him being in my home.

“You make a wonderful dinner.” He stated as we reached the door as Rin and Shippou gave childish goodbyes. “Best I've had in years.”

“It probably would've been better if I didn't burn it all up. But I thank you for your compliment.” He kissed me gently, a mere peck on my lips. I smiled as he looked down at Rin.

“Any last questions before we leave? I know you always seem to like to have the last say in things.” She beamed a tired smile at us.

“Is Kagome your girlfriend?” He looked down at her in surprise before looking up at me with an eyebrow raised.

“Why yes, Rin. I believe she is.” I could practically feel my heart pounding out of my chest. I knew my cheeks were flushed and that my eyes were wide, because he was smirking at me. He kissed me once more on the lips before opening the door.

“I'll see you on Tuesday, my little door gluer. Do not be late.” I barely acknowledged him leaving, or Rin telling me goodbye. I couldn't even feel Shippou tugging on my hand.

It was now official: I was the girlfriend of book boy.

I'm sorry it was so late! Fanfiction is being a bitch at my house and I had to upload this at school. But, anyways, I'll start updating from school for now on. I guess. I do nothing in my Journalism class, so I might as well.

Ooh, love this chapter so so much. It was fun to write. Kagome should find out his name in the next few chapters, so keep reading! Wa ha ha ha! I'm so evil.

¥10,000 - $86

¥12,500 - $108 --- Kagome really wants him out of there, so no questioning the money sum I picked. Ha.