InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Secret Lovers ❯ Storyboard ( Chapter 10 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: saphira404 
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama / Comedy | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 01.16.2012 | Pages: 3 | Words: 5.1K | Visits: 353 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama / Comedy | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 01.16.2012 | Pages: 3 | Words: 5.1K | Visits: 353 | Status: Work In Progress
Part 10: Storyboard
A/N: Hello dear readers! I hope 2012 is going well for you so far. I know you’ve all been looking forward to our couple’s first actual date, so I hope I won’t disappoint.
Disclaimer: Sadly even though I love writing AU stories on my OTP, they don't belong to me. I tried to buy them, but all I could afford were plushies. Oh well better than nothing lol.
“Talking”
'Thoughts'
Kagura smoothed her hands down her body. She had agonized for the longest time about what to wear for her big night.
‘Why am I struggling so hard to find something to put on? Sesshoumaru has seen me clothed and naked on several occasions…’ Despite her thoughts, she could not help but wonder briefly if the red dress she had picked was a little too revealing for a simple dinner. ‘Maybe I should change…’ She wondered as she ran her fingers down the deep cleavage revealed by the cut of her gown. The sound of her doorbell ringing however reduced to naught all possibility of changing her dress.
After taking a quick second to slip her heels on, she raced towards the front door of her condo. As soon as she opened it, she was greeted by a sight that brought a smile to her lips: Sesshoumaru standing outside her door. A small grin found itself on her lips when she noticed that she was not the only one feeling nervous. After all she knew her lover well enough to realize that anxiety had to be the only reason why he stood with his hands in his pockets; a habit he did not usually have.
“Good evening.” Despite all this time, simply hearing his velvety voice was enough to make the younger woman hum.
“Hi Sesshoumaru. Let me just get my coat and purse and we can go.” As soon as the words left her mouth, Sesshoumaru looped his arm around her back, pressing their bodies flush together before taking her mouth in a searing kiss. The thought of resisting the kiss never crossed her mind, and Kagura let herself be swept away by the sweetness of his lips ravaging her own.
One he released her, she cleared her throat, hoping it would be enough to hide how affected she had been by his unexpected kiss, and mask the feeling of headiness bubbling inside her. The mocking grin at the corner of her lover’s lips let her know that she had been unsuccessful. Kagura snorted, and with wobbly knees, headed back inside her condo to pick up the items she had just mentioned. She quickly stepped outside once again to rejoin her lover.
“Okay, I’m ready now.” She let Sesshoumaru know as she shrugged into her coat. It was her turn to smirk when she saw Sesshoumaru’s golden gaze thin slightly upon seeing her covering her deep cleavage. “So where are you taking me tonight?”
He recollected himself, but decided to ignore his co-worker’s question. The two of them headed down towards the street where Sesshoumaru’s car was parked. Kagura waited until they were settled and securely strapped into his vehicle before asking her question once again albeit with different words.
“I hope I’m dressed appropriately for wherever the hell it is you are taking me.”
The note of annoyance in her voice did not go unnoticed by him, but he still did not offer her the answer she really wanted, namely where they were going.
“You will do.” Sesshoumaru said as he started his car, and drove off. He had thought long and hard about where to take Kagura on their first actual date, and was not about to ruin his surprise.
The young woman sighed and rolled her eyes; she knew Sesshoumaru was not about to reveal anything to her. “I just hope we get there soon; I’m starving.” She added aloud before thinking ‘In the meantime I’ll look at what route he’s taking to try to figure out where we’re going…’
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‘This is nice… I could get used to this.’ Kagura took a bite of her meal, and moaned in pure pleasure as the mix of rice, seafood and spices exploded on her taste buds. She looked over the rim of her wine glass to take a peek at her lover, and an unchecked smile spread on her lips.
When Sesshoumaru had first driven towards main street, she had been afraid that he was going to take her to La Bonne Table the French restaurant where he was supposed to have met with Touran several months ago, but to her relief he had had driven into the valet parking of La Rosa Roja, the Spanish restaurant she had mentioned not too long ago that she was dying to try.
“I can’t wait to write a review about this place. The paella is sinfully delicious.” She took one more bite, and mentally planned what she was going to write in her article. ’I’ll definitely have to take some notes before Sesshoumaru drives me home. I don’t want to forget any of the adjectives I’m thinking about right now.’
‘She really always thinks about the magazine…’ The young man thought shaking his head in dismay. “I am glad to see you are finding this evening… productive.”
Kagura’s smile fell. “I didn’t mean to say that I’m only glad we came here tonight because of my critic section…” She immediately placed her fork down, and reached across the table for his hand to give it a tender squeeze. “I’m really happy to see you actually remembered about this place. I mentioned it a while back.”
“I do listen when you talk.” He reminded her then squeezed her hand back before taking a hold of his glass, and taking a sip of his wine. He was glad that she had noticed his thoughtful gesture. Luckily for him, his wine glass was large enough to hide his little proud smile.
“I always said you are a good listener.” She reflected on how ever since their trip to the festival she had confided all her deepest darkest secrets to Sesshoumaru. ‘He just gives of that calm aura that makes me feel like I can tell him anything without him spilling my secrets.’
Kagura’s thoughts were interrupted by a vibrating noise coming from her purse. Muttering a quick excuse, she reached for the back of her chair where she had slung her bag from. She retrieved her cell phone and read the text message she had received.
“Ugh you’ve got to be kidding me.”
“Is something amiss?” Something in Kagura’s tone worried Sesshoumaru.
“What is wrong is that my father has the nerve to ask me to meet him at the office tonight.” Kagura growled angrily. “He just received the results from the surveys and wants to go over them with me.” She had been having such a good time. The food and the wine Sesshoumaru had picked were delicious, and as usual she was having a great time conversing with her lover. ‘And Naraku just had to ruin everything!’
Sesshoumaru did not let the anger simmering inside him come out. He had wanted their first evening out to be perfect, and the idea of something going wrong, and the two of them being interrupted was simply not permissible to him.
“What will you do?” He asked in a nonchalant voice, masking the trepidation he was truly feeling.
“Screw him!” She snapped her phone shut before dropping it back in her purse. “I waited for him yesterday, and he never showed up. I sacrificed some of my birthday to him, but I am no intention to bail out on our date. Besides knowing him, that asshole would probably have me wait for nothing once again. So no, I’m not going anywhere.”
After her tirade, she reached for her wine glass and drained the last of the red liquid. A little grin on the corner of his lips, Sesshoumaru generously refilled her glass. His grin broadened into a full blown smile when the thought occurred to him that by staying Kagura would not be missing out on his little surprise.
‘Which should take place about now…’ He had barely thought the words when a waiter approached their table with a tray in his hand, on it was resting a red rose, the emblem of the restaurant, but more importantly, a chocolate frosted cupcake with a single lit candle planted in the middle of it.
Kagura’s crimson eyes opened wide in wonder. “You did this?” She marveled when the polite waiter cleared her almost empty dinner plate before placing her dessert in front of her.
Since he figured her question was rhetorical, Sesshoumaru contented himself with answering. “Blow your candle before it melts. Happy belated birthday witch.”
The young woman did as told, and blew the candle. With a broad smile on her lips she then used her finger to pick up some of the frosting off her cupcake before bringing it to her mouth.
“You really are a witch.” Sesshoumaru muttered to himself as his golden eyes stayed trained on her finger which had disappeared inside her mouth as she sucked and licked every bit of frosting off the digit. Eager to distract his mind from horny thoughts her action were provoking, he decided to talk of something else.
“Did you remember to make a wish as you blew your birthday candle?”
Kagura scraped some more frosting off her cupcake before suggestively licking her finger. “Of course I did.” The young woman then grinned mischievously. “I wished for you to take me home quickly so I can have my way with you.” To punctuate her words, under the safety of the table, she extended her leg towards him, and reached under the soft material of the left leg of his dark slack. Her grin broadened when she gently ran her foot against the sensitive skin of his calf.
His reaction to her words was immediate and swift. Sesshoumaru raised two fingers in the air before saying loudly, but in a controlled voice. “Check please!”
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She couldn’t take her eyes off him. As much as she tried, Kagura could not help but steal glances towards Sesshoumaru. The two of them were standing next to Shippou’s desk in the reception area of the office, waiting for the young intern to give them their mail. They of course could have waited in their respective offices for him to deliver it, but then they wouldn’t have been able to stand so close to each other. Kagura’s hand quickly brushed against Sesshoumaru’s hand causing her body to positively hum in response. She suddenly relieved the passionate night, and early morning, she had spent with her lover under the covers, and could not prevent a grin from spreading on her lips. She forced the dreamy look out of her eyes. She knew they had to be careful. Coming in to work at the same time was sure to make people suspicious, so she knew adding discreet caresses to the mix was not a good idea, but she could not help herself. She looked at her lover from the corner of her eye, and noticed that he appeared as frosty as ever. Only someone who knew him as well as she did would notice the imperceptible lift of his eyebrow, the only proof that her discreet caress had registered with him.
“Here you go.” Shippou handed each of them a wad of envelopes.
“Shippou.” Sesshoumaru suddenly spoke gravely. “Do you know my name?”
“Yes of course. It’s Sesshoumaru… Tashio, sir.” The young man said feeling suddenly nervous. No one, not even Naraku the owner of the magazine, managed to make him feel this unnerved with a single look.
“Then please refrain from giving me Kouga’s mail from now on.” The male co-editor of Shikon Magazine handed back a large manila envelope to the young green eyed intern.
“I’m sorry sir!” Shippou knew he had been doing a good job so far during his internship, and really hope to get a full time job at Shikon Magazine once he graduated. Something told him that in order to get a position, he would have to impress Sesshoumaru and Kagura. ‘Messing up their mail delivery is not a way to endear them to me…’ He thought before quickly providing an excuse for his lack of focus. “Things have been crazy on campus lately.”
“Explain.” Sesshoumaru’s journalistic curiosity was picked.
“Well there’s this guy in one of my classes… a guy named Manten he overdosed and he’s in a coma, and now his brother Hiten and the other members of their gang The Thunder Brothers are terrorizing everyone in their search to find out whoever sold Manten the drug… no one knows who sells it, but that drug has been wrecking havoc on campus… That was bad enough, but now the newly elected president of our Associated Student organization decided to put an end to drugs on campus. Personally I think she’s wasting her efforts… I mean even if it’s dangerous, the popularity of that drug is just wild.”
“What is this drug?” Kagura asked. She was now getting a more complete picture of the situation, and as interesting as it might be, it was not pretty.
“It’s called…”
“Kagura!” An angry voice roared behind them interrupting Shippou’s explanation. The young woman growled in frustration. She was interested by Shippou’s story, but more importantly she did not want to deal with her father right now.
She turned around to face Naraku who was openly seething with anger. “When I request your presence at work, you should run over to me.”
Kagura rolled her eyes in annoyance. When she had decided not to answer her father’s summon during her date with Sesshoumaru the night before, she had been sure there was going to be hell to pay.
‘Looks like it’s time to pay up.’ She thought before adding aloud. “I was… otherwise engaged at the time I received your text message.” She was not about to let Naraku know what exactly she had been up to the previous night, and certainly not with whom.
“What exactly was more important than your job?”
Upon hearing Naraku’s question, Kagura felt Sesshoumaru shift restlessly next to her. She feared that in a fit of anger, he would reveal their little secret, after all he had said on several occasions that he could barely tolerate the way Naraku treated his oldest daughter. She therefore changed the subject rapidly.
“You told me you received the results of our surveys and questionnaires, so shouldn’t we get going before we get late to this little meeting of yours?...” Kagura told her father before walking down the corridor towards the conference room.
“Ah yes the meeting.” Naraku muttered before following his daughter. He had not liked the way Kagura had just dismissed him, but could not find any clever retort. “Sesshoumaru. Come. We will be needing your contributions. Kagura cannot be counted on.”
“I have something to take care of at the moment.” Sesshoumaru answered dryly. He had not appreciated the lack of respect with which Naraku had just addressed him. He knew there was a lot riding on the meeting Naraku had called for that morning as the results from the studies conducted would be discussed. A new direction for Shikon Magazine was going to be chosen as well.
Naraku ground his teeth, and opened his mouth, but then quickly closed it. ‘Antagonizing Sesshoumaru while Kagura is being insubordinate might not be the best thing for me at the moment.’ He thought to himself before adding aloud. “Whenever you are done with whatever you deem more important than your professional duties, join us in the conference room.”
Sesshoumaru waited until Naraku was well out of earshot to turn the full force of his amber gaze on the frightened Shippou. “Tell me more about these Thunder Brothers and the president of your student body.”
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Kagura Jiyuu nervously twirled the pen she was holding in between her fingers. The results were in on the surveys, focus groups and questionnaires her father had ordered to find out about how Shikon Magazine was doing, and they were not good.
“What do they mean by too frivolous?” Ayame suddenly broke the tense silence. Frivolous was the word that came up across several times in the research compiled about their magazine.
“Sengoku Today! has started running real life stories and some investigative journalism pieces. People are becoming interested in more serious stories than cultural festivals or last night’s baseball game, that is what it means.” Sesshoumaru commented as he strolled into the conference room.
“Thank you for your insight.” Kouga snorted sarcastically. His comment caused Sesshoumaru to send him a murderous glare. The younger dark haired man cleared his throat and sat straighter before adding. “The question is what are we going to do about it.”
“Yes Sesshoumaru, do you have any suggestions?” Naraku asked on an overly syrupy sweet voice. He usually would pick on Kagura, but he was still annoyed by Sesshoumaru’s previous refusal to follow his orders.
“Actually I do.” The silver haired journalist settled himself on his usual seat next to Kagura. Upon hearing his declaration, she arched a fine dark eyebrow in surprise. He had not told her he had something up his sleeve. In response Sesshoumaru let out a slight scoff. She was sure he was silently reminding her how a few months ago she had not told him about her critic section before bringing up the idea to the brainstorming session.
“May we hear this illustrious idea of yours?” Naraku leaned back against his chair, and linked his fingers together. He knew that this pose tended to intimidate people, but his efforts were wasted on Sesshoumaru.
“Since our readers yearn for more realistic pieces, I propose we do as they wish. In fact an interesting story has been brought to my intention. I am sure I could turn it into a worthy article.”
“Does it have anything to do with the drug trade going on our local college campus?” Kagura asked, catching on quickly to her lover’s train of thoughts. She too after all had heard Shippou’s words earlier.
“Indeed.” Sesshoumaru nodded to his lover. He once again was impressed at how easily she was able to see through him.
“A drug investigation? These require large resources.” Naraku frowned. He did not really care if Sesshoumaru decided to get embroiled with some drug dealers. ‘As long as he does not do it on my dime.’
“You need not worry. I will rely on myself.” Sesshoumaru paused then as he remembered how greedy his employer was, he then added. “In fact I am so confident in this endeavor that until I produce a good enough article, I will not be using the magazine’s resources.”
His sudden declaration made everyone, even Kagura gasp in shock.
“You mean you will forfeit your salary during your investigation?” Naraku barely resisted the urge to smack his lips in pleasure. Sesshoumaru was after all his highest paid employee, and not having to pay him was a thought he relished. “Then do as you wish, and may your little investigation take as long as you like. In fact Kagura if you wish to join him, you are more than welcome.”
She scoffed at her father’s words. “Wouldn’t you like that, not having to pay your two editors? Well sorry to disappoint, but I’m not as chivalrous as Sesshoumaru. I’ll help, but I want to be paid as usual.”
Her father cursed under his breath, but reluctantly agreed. “The two of you better have an article ready for me soon. We are losing readers as we speak.” Naraku took to his feet, and snapped closed the different files containing the results of the analysis of his magazine. “Sesshoumaru, you better hope this theory of yours works… or else.” With these ominous words, he left the conference rooms where everyone’s eyes were stuck on Sesshoumaru and Kagura.
“I guess us regular workers should get back to our desks and let the hero take care of everything.” Kouga said bitterly before coming to his feet. After giving Sesshoumaru one last angry look, he stormed out. He was followed by the rest of the Shikon employees, who left silently and without any outward reaction, except for Touran who sneered at Sesshoumaru.
“Well that was pleasant. I hope you have a good plan.” Kagura addressed Sesshoumaru once they were left alone in the conference room. The cocky smile at the corner of his lips let her know that he had something planned indeed.
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“You know, I never asked, but is Edo University your alma mater?” Kagura asked as she followed behind Sesshoumaru as her lover walked through the local college campus. The fact that he knew where to park his car, and was more than comfortable navigating the large campus did not escape her keen eyes. She was aware that had she been by herself she would have gotten lost amid the large campus she unlike him had after all grown up and attended college in another city.
“Yes it is. I have not been here in many years, but things have not really changed.” Sesshoumaru noted. Even as he spoke his long strides took him towards what he remembered as being the hang out spot for the cool kids. While attending Edo University he personally had not been in the habit of spending time at that ‘special’ place, but he was sure that if he wanted answers about the Thunder Brothers and the drug trade on campus, there was no better place to start asking questions.
Sure enough as they reached what was known by the locals as the God Tree, they encountered a cluster of students. The God Tree had no religious ties other than a local legend which said that the university had been built over the grounds of an ancient temple which had been destroyed by a violent storm. The tall and large hundred years old tree was according to the legend the only thing left over from the temple. Over the years it had become one of the favorite hangout spots for students.
‘The fact that it is located on the outskirts of campus, far from the headquarters of the university police, and within walking distance of a liquor store which is lax in checking the ID’s of youngsters, I am sure also helped raise the popularity of the tree…’ Sesshoumaru reflected to himself. His golden eyes took in a group of young men sitting under the shade of the large leaves of the tree while sharing beers.
More than their unlawful drinking in a public space, what attracted Sesshoumaru’s attention was that one of the men in the group fit perfectly the description of Hiten Shippou had given him earlier today. The sharp eyes and long braid were a dead giveaway after all.
“Let me do the talking.” Sesshoumaru hissed to his lover before walking out to the group of young men. Kagura scoffed in response, but shrugged her shoulders in an accepting gesture.
“Whatcha looking at?” Hiten growled once Sesshoumaru stepped in front of him, blocking the incoming sun light, and bathing his body into shadows.
“Hiten and his Thunder Brothers, I presume.”
The cocky smiled on the younger man’s face did not leave Hiten’s face. He took the time to take a large swig of his beer before answering Sesshoumaru’s question. “Why’re you asking? Are you a cop or something?”
“No, I am merely a journalist. My name is Sesshoumaru Tashio, and this is Kagura Jiyuu my… collaborator.” He turned around to look at his lover standing next to him.
“Yeah, and so what do you want?” Hiten barked back.
“Your words. I have heard about an interesting story concerning your brother Manten, and something called… the miko powder.”
Hiten suddenly sprung to his feet in a quick move, leaving his beer unattended on the grass as Sesshoumaru’s words garnered his full attention. “What the hell do you know about this damn drug?”
Kagura noticed the rapid change of attitude in Hiten. He had appeared smug, bored and a little amused when Sesshoumaru and she had first approached him, but now he was alert and angry.
“No need to get upset.” Kagura intervened. “We are looking for answers as well when it comes to the miko powder.” The young woman had never heard of such a thing as miko powder, but based on Sesshoumaru’s words, she inferred that it was the name of the drug that had caused for Manten to be put in a coma.
“You said you weren’t cops, but journalists, so what do you know about my brother and that fucking drug?” Even as he relaxed, Hiten could not help but question the motives of the two people who had just appeared in front of him. Another reason why he was wary was that he would not put it past the people of Edo University to try to get him to admit to the illegal deeds of his band of Thunder Brothers through a ruse; they had after all been trying to get rid of him for a long time. Since Edo was a public university, they could not expel him without having sure proof of his illegal actions.
As soon as Shippou had told him about the drug related issues on the Edo campus, Sesshoumaru had thought of two angles he could give to his writing piece. He could either focus on Hiten, his Thunder Brothers and the drama of Manten being in the hospital, or he could write about the war the young Associated Students president was waging against drugs on campus. Sesshoumaru was aware that the majority of readers of Shikon Magazine were female, and was sure they would enjoy reading about a young woman’s fight to clean up her campus rather than gang issues. But as he was still in the stage of gathering information, he had yet to decide which way to go. He wanted to speak with both Hiten and the student body president before making a decision.
“I do not know as much as I would like. I know you are looking for the people responsible for your brother’s hospitalization, and being featured in the media might help you get more exposure, and facilitate in your search.” In truth, the male journalist knew that being featured in Shikon Magazine might hinder Hiten in his search as he was sure the younger man wanted to rely on more illegal and forceful means. Being in the spotlight might therefore prevent the young delinquent front being able to do that.
Hiten frowned as he mulled over Sesshoumaru’s words. Stomping footsteps coming from behind the two journalists however prevented him from offering a response.
“What are you doing? You should be ashamed of yourselves! Why are you enabling these delinquents?!” The young woman spat angrily at Sesshoumaru and Kagura. Then as something occurred to her, the young woman then added. “Actually you should be ashamed of trying to buy drugs… period!”
“Well well, if it isn’t the illustrious president of our Associated Students organization? Did you lose yourself on the way to the ‘Land of the good girls’?” Hiten’s mocking remark made his Thunder Brothers, who were still spread out under the God Tree, chuckled heartily.
“Don’t try to make fun of me Hiten. After what happened to your brother, how can you still deal with drugs?” She shook her head in dismay. Her words caused the older man’s face contort in a mask of pure rage.
“Kagome, you stupid bitch. When will you get it through you thick head that I’m not selling that damn miko powder?!” His harsh words brought a grimace to her face. “What, angry? Where’s your little puppy? He isn’t here to defend you honor today?”
“Shut up Hiten! Don’t talk to Kagome like that.”
The two co-editors of Shikon Magazine who were too busy watching the two college students engage in a screaming match were caught unaware by another person joining their group. They turned to look at the newcomer, and even as Sesshoumaru’s golden eyes opened wide in shock, it was Kagura who let out a loud gasp.
“Keh! Who the hell are you, and what are you doing here?!”
To be continued…
A/N: I am sure my dear readers can guess who the newcomer might be. The next chapter will be named Advice section. I will try my best to have it up as soon as possible.
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A/N: Hello dear readers! I hope 2012 is going well for you so far. I know you’ve all been looking forward to our couple’s first actual date, so I hope I won’t disappoint.
Disclaimer: Sadly even though I love writing AU stories on my OTP, they don't belong to me. I tried to buy them, but all I could afford were plushies. Oh well better than nothing lol.
“Talking”
'Thoughts'
Kagura smoothed her hands down her body. She had agonized for the longest time about what to wear for her big night.
‘Why am I struggling so hard to find something to put on? Sesshoumaru has seen me clothed and naked on several occasions…’ Despite her thoughts, she could not help but wonder briefly if the red dress she had picked was a little too revealing for a simple dinner. ‘Maybe I should change…’ She wondered as she ran her fingers down the deep cleavage revealed by the cut of her gown. The sound of her doorbell ringing however reduced to naught all possibility of changing her dress.
After taking a quick second to slip her heels on, she raced towards the front door of her condo. As soon as she opened it, she was greeted by a sight that brought a smile to her lips: Sesshoumaru standing outside her door. A small grin found itself on her lips when she noticed that she was not the only one feeling nervous. After all she knew her lover well enough to realize that anxiety had to be the only reason why he stood with his hands in his pockets; a habit he did not usually have.
“Good evening.” Despite all this time, simply hearing his velvety voice was enough to make the younger woman hum.
“Hi Sesshoumaru. Let me just get my coat and purse and we can go.” As soon as the words left her mouth, Sesshoumaru looped his arm around her back, pressing their bodies flush together before taking her mouth in a searing kiss. The thought of resisting the kiss never crossed her mind, and Kagura let herself be swept away by the sweetness of his lips ravaging her own.
One he released her, she cleared her throat, hoping it would be enough to hide how affected she had been by his unexpected kiss, and mask the feeling of headiness bubbling inside her. The mocking grin at the corner of her lover’s lips let her know that she had been unsuccessful. Kagura snorted, and with wobbly knees, headed back inside her condo to pick up the items she had just mentioned. She quickly stepped outside once again to rejoin her lover.
“Okay, I’m ready now.” She let Sesshoumaru know as she shrugged into her coat. It was her turn to smirk when she saw Sesshoumaru’s golden gaze thin slightly upon seeing her covering her deep cleavage. “So where are you taking me tonight?”
He recollected himself, but decided to ignore his co-worker’s question. The two of them headed down towards the street where Sesshoumaru’s car was parked. Kagura waited until they were settled and securely strapped into his vehicle before asking her question once again albeit with different words.
“I hope I’m dressed appropriately for wherever the hell it is you are taking me.”
The note of annoyance in her voice did not go unnoticed by him, but he still did not offer her the answer she really wanted, namely where they were going.
“You will do.” Sesshoumaru said as he started his car, and drove off. He had thought long and hard about where to take Kagura on their first actual date, and was not about to ruin his surprise.
The young woman sighed and rolled her eyes; she knew Sesshoumaru was not about to reveal anything to her. “I just hope we get there soon; I’m starving.” She added aloud before thinking ‘In the meantime I’ll look at what route he’s taking to try to figure out where we’re going…’
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‘This is nice… I could get used to this.’ Kagura took a bite of her meal, and moaned in pure pleasure as the mix of rice, seafood and spices exploded on her taste buds. She looked over the rim of her wine glass to take a peek at her lover, and an unchecked smile spread on her lips.
When Sesshoumaru had first driven towards main street, she had been afraid that he was going to take her to La Bonne Table the French restaurant where he was supposed to have met with Touran several months ago, but to her relief he had had driven into the valet parking of La Rosa Roja, the Spanish restaurant she had mentioned not too long ago that she was dying to try.
“I can’t wait to write a review about this place. The paella is sinfully delicious.” She took one more bite, and mentally planned what she was going to write in her article. ’I’ll definitely have to take some notes before Sesshoumaru drives me home. I don’t want to forget any of the adjectives I’m thinking about right now.’
‘She really always thinks about the magazine…’ The young man thought shaking his head in dismay. “I am glad to see you are finding this evening… productive.”
Kagura’s smile fell. “I didn’t mean to say that I’m only glad we came here tonight because of my critic section…” She immediately placed her fork down, and reached across the table for his hand to give it a tender squeeze. “I’m really happy to see you actually remembered about this place. I mentioned it a while back.”
“I do listen when you talk.” He reminded her then squeezed her hand back before taking a hold of his glass, and taking a sip of his wine. He was glad that she had noticed his thoughtful gesture. Luckily for him, his wine glass was large enough to hide his little proud smile.
“I always said you are a good listener.” She reflected on how ever since their trip to the festival she had confided all her deepest darkest secrets to Sesshoumaru. ‘He just gives of that calm aura that makes me feel like I can tell him anything without him spilling my secrets.’
Kagura’s thoughts were interrupted by a vibrating noise coming from her purse. Muttering a quick excuse, she reached for the back of her chair where she had slung her bag from. She retrieved her cell phone and read the text message she had received.
“Ugh you’ve got to be kidding me.”
“Is something amiss?” Something in Kagura’s tone worried Sesshoumaru.
“What is wrong is that my father has the nerve to ask me to meet him at the office tonight.” Kagura growled angrily. “He just received the results from the surveys and wants to go over them with me.” She had been having such a good time. The food and the wine Sesshoumaru had picked were delicious, and as usual she was having a great time conversing with her lover. ‘And Naraku just had to ruin everything!’
Sesshoumaru did not let the anger simmering inside him come out. He had wanted their first evening out to be perfect, and the idea of something going wrong, and the two of them being interrupted was simply not permissible to him.
“What will you do?” He asked in a nonchalant voice, masking the trepidation he was truly feeling.
“Screw him!” She snapped her phone shut before dropping it back in her purse. “I waited for him yesterday, and he never showed up. I sacrificed some of my birthday to him, but I am no intention to bail out on our date. Besides knowing him, that asshole would probably have me wait for nothing once again. So no, I’m not going anywhere.”
After her tirade, she reached for her wine glass and drained the last of the red liquid. A little grin on the corner of his lips, Sesshoumaru generously refilled her glass. His grin broadened into a full blown smile when the thought occurred to him that by staying Kagura would not be missing out on his little surprise.
‘Which should take place about now…’ He had barely thought the words when a waiter approached their table with a tray in his hand, on it was resting a red rose, the emblem of the restaurant, but more importantly, a chocolate frosted cupcake with a single lit candle planted in the middle of it.
Kagura’s crimson eyes opened wide in wonder. “You did this?” She marveled when the polite waiter cleared her almost empty dinner plate before placing her dessert in front of her.
Since he figured her question was rhetorical, Sesshoumaru contented himself with answering. “Blow your candle before it melts. Happy belated birthday witch.”
The young woman did as told, and blew the candle. With a broad smile on her lips she then used her finger to pick up some of the frosting off her cupcake before bringing it to her mouth.
“You really are a witch.” Sesshoumaru muttered to himself as his golden eyes stayed trained on her finger which had disappeared inside her mouth as she sucked and licked every bit of frosting off the digit. Eager to distract his mind from horny thoughts her action were provoking, he decided to talk of something else.
“Did you remember to make a wish as you blew your birthday candle?”
Kagura scraped some more frosting off her cupcake before suggestively licking her finger. “Of course I did.” The young woman then grinned mischievously. “I wished for you to take me home quickly so I can have my way with you.” To punctuate her words, under the safety of the table, she extended her leg towards him, and reached under the soft material of the left leg of his dark slack. Her grin broadened when she gently ran her foot against the sensitive skin of his calf.
His reaction to her words was immediate and swift. Sesshoumaru raised two fingers in the air before saying loudly, but in a controlled voice. “Check please!”
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She couldn’t take her eyes off him. As much as she tried, Kagura could not help but steal glances towards Sesshoumaru. The two of them were standing next to Shippou’s desk in the reception area of the office, waiting for the young intern to give them their mail. They of course could have waited in their respective offices for him to deliver it, but then they wouldn’t have been able to stand so close to each other. Kagura’s hand quickly brushed against Sesshoumaru’s hand causing her body to positively hum in response. She suddenly relieved the passionate night, and early morning, she had spent with her lover under the covers, and could not prevent a grin from spreading on her lips. She forced the dreamy look out of her eyes. She knew they had to be careful. Coming in to work at the same time was sure to make people suspicious, so she knew adding discreet caresses to the mix was not a good idea, but she could not help herself. She looked at her lover from the corner of her eye, and noticed that he appeared as frosty as ever. Only someone who knew him as well as she did would notice the imperceptible lift of his eyebrow, the only proof that her discreet caress had registered with him.
“Here you go.” Shippou handed each of them a wad of envelopes.
“Shippou.” Sesshoumaru suddenly spoke gravely. “Do you know my name?”
“Yes of course. It’s Sesshoumaru… Tashio, sir.” The young man said feeling suddenly nervous. No one, not even Naraku the owner of the magazine, managed to make him feel this unnerved with a single look.
“Then please refrain from giving me Kouga’s mail from now on.” The male co-editor of Shikon Magazine handed back a large manila envelope to the young green eyed intern.
“I’m sorry sir!” Shippou knew he had been doing a good job so far during his internship, and really hope to get a full time job at Shikon Magazine once he graduated. Something told him that in order to get a position, he would have to impress Sesshoumaru and Kagura. ‘Messing up their mail delivery is not a way to endear them to me…’ He thought before quickly providing an excuse for his lack of focus. “Things have been crazy on campus lately.”
“Explain.” Sesshoumaru’s journalistic curiosity was picked.
“Well there’s this guy in one of my classes… a guy named Manten he overdosed and he’s in a coma, and now his brother Hiten and the other members of their gang The Thunder Brothers are terrorizing everyone in their search to find out whoever sold Manten the drug… no one knows who sells it, but that drug has been wrecking havoc on campus… That was bad enough, but now the newly elected president of our Associated Student organization decided to put an end to drugs on campus. Personally I think she’s wasting her efforts… I mean even if it’s dangerous, the popularity of that drug is just wild.”
“What is this drug?” Kagura asked. She was now getting a more complete picture of the situation, and as interesting as it might be, it was not pretty.
“It’s called…”
“Kagura!” An angry voice roared behind them interrupting Shippou’s explanation. The young woman growled in frustration. She was interested by Shippou’s story, but more importantly she did not want to deal with her father right now.
She turned around to face Naraku who was openly seething with anger. “When I request your presence at work, you should run over to me.”
Kagura rolled her eyes in annoyance. When she had decided not to answer her father’s summon during her date with Sesshoumaru the night before, she had been sure there was going to be hell to pay.
‘Looks like it’s time to pay up.’ She thought before adding aloud. “I was… otherwise engaged at the time I received your text message.” She was not about to let Naraku know what exactly she had been up to the previous night, and certainly not with whom.
“What exactly was more important than your job?”
Upon hearing Naraku’s question, Kagura felt Sesshoumaru shift restlessly next to her. She feared that in a fit of anger, he would reveal their little secret, after all he had said on several occasions that he could barely tolerate the way Naraku treated his oldest daughter. She therefore changed the subject rapidly.
“You told me you received the results of our surveys and questionnaires, so shouldn’t we get going before we get late to this little meeting of yours?...” Kagura told her father before walking down the corridor towards the conference room.
“Ah yes the meeting.” Naraku muttered before following his daughter. He had not liked the way Kagura had just dismissed him, but could not find any clever retort. “Sesshoumaru. Come. We will be needing your contributions. Kagura cannot be counted on.”
“I have something to take care of at the moment.” Sesshoumaru answered dryly. He had not appreciated the lack of respect with which Naraku had just addressed him. He knew there was a lot riding on the meeting Naraku had called for that morning as the results from the studies conducted would be discussed. A new direction for Shikon Magazine was going to be chosen as well.
Naraku ground his teeth, and opened his mouth, but then quickly closed it. ‘Antagonizing Sesshoumaru while Kagura is being insubordinate might not be the best thing for me at the moment.’ He thought to himself before adding aloud. “Whenever you are done with whatever you deem more important than your professional duties, join us in the conference room.”
Sesshoumaru waited until Naraku was well out of earshot to turn the full force of his amber gaze on the frightened Shippou. “Tell me more about these Thunder Brothers and the president of your student body.”
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Kagura Jiyuu nervously twirled the pen she was holding in between her fingers. The results were in on the surveys, focus groups and questionnaires her father had ordered to find out about how Shikon Magazine was doing, and they were not good.
“What do they mean by too frivolous?” Ayame suddenly broke the tense silence. Frivolous was the word that came up across several times in the research compiled about their magazine.
“Sengoku Today! has started running real life stories and some investigative journalism pieces. People are becoming interested in more serious stories than cultural festivals or last night’s baseball game, that is what it means.” Sesshoumaru commented as he strolled into the conference room.
“Thank you for your insight.” Kouga snorted sarcastically. His comment caused Sesshoumaru to send him a murderous glare. The younger dark haired man cleared his throat and sat straighter before adding. “The question is what are we going to do about it.”
“Yes Sesshoumaru, do you have any suggestions?” Naraku asked on an overly syrupy sweet voice. He usually would pick on Kagura, but he was still annoyed by Sesshoumaru’s previous refusal to follow his orders.
“Actually I do.” The silver haired journalist settled himself on his usual seat next to Kagura. Upon hearing his declaration, she arched a fine dark eyebrow in surprise. He had not told her he had something up his sleeve. In response Sesshoumaru let out a slight scoff. She was sure he was silently reminding her how a few months ago she had not told him about her critic section before bringing up the idea to the brainstorming session.
“May we hear this illustrious idea of yours?” Naraku leaned back against his chair, and linked his fingers together. He knew that this pose tended to intimidate people, but his efforts were wasted on Sesshoumaru.
“Since our readers yearn for more realistic pieces, I propose we do as they wish. In fact an interesting story has been brought to my intention. I am sure I could turn it into a worthy article.”
“Does it have anything to do with the drug trade going on our local college campus?” Kagura asked, catching on quickly to her lover’s train of thoughts. She too after all had heard Shippou’s words earlier.
“Indeed.” Sesshoumaru nodded to his lover. He once again was impressed at how easily she was able to see through him.
“A drug investigation? These require large resources.” Naraku frowned. He did not really care if Sesshoumaru decided to get embroiled with some drug dealers. ‘As long as he does not do it on my dime.’
“You need not worry. I will rely on myself.” Sesshoumaru paused then as he remembered how greedy his employer was, he then added. “In fact I am so confident in this endeavor that until I produce a good enough article, I will not be using the magazine’s resources.”
His sudden declaration made everyone, even Kagura gasp in shock.
“You mean you will forfeit your salary during your investigation?” Naraku barely resisted the urge to smack his lips in pleasure. Sesshoumaru was after all his highest paid employee, and not having to pay him was a thought he relished. “Then do as you wish, and may your little investigation take as long as you like. In fact Kagura if you wish to join him, you are more than welcome.”
She scoffed at her father’s words. “Wouldn’t you like that, not having to pay your two editors? Well sorry to disappoint, but I’m not as chivalrous as Sesshoumaru. I’ll help, but I want to be paid as usual.”
Her father cursed under his breath, but reluctantly agreed. “The two of you better have an article ready for me soon. We are losing readers as we speak.” Naraku took to his feet, and snapped closed the different files containing the results of the analysis of his magazine. “Sesshoumaru, you better hope this theory of yours works… or else.” With these ominous words, he left the conference rooms where everyone’s eyes were stuck on Sesshoumaru and Kagura.
“I guess us regular workers should get back to our desks and let the hero take care of everything.” Kouga said bitterly before coming to his feet. After giving Sesshoumaru one last angry look, he stormed out. He was followed by the rest of the Shikon employees, who left silently and without any outward reaction, except for Touran who sneered at Sesshoumaru.
“Well that was pleasant. I hope you have a good plan.” Kagura addressed Sesshoumaru once they were left alone in the conference room. The cocky smile at the corner of his lips let her know that he had something planned indeed.
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“You know, I never asked, but is Edo University your alma mater?” Kagura asked as she followed behind Sesshoumaru as her lover walked through the local college campus. The fact that he knew where to park his car, and was more than comfortable navigating the large campus did not escape her keen eyes. She was aware that had she been by herself she would have gotten lost amid the large campus she unlike him had after all grown up and attended college in another city.
“Yes it is. I have not been here in many years, but things have not really changed.” Sesshoumaru noted. Even as he spoke his long strides took him towards what he remembered as being the hang out spot for the cool kids. While attending Edo University he personally had not been in the habit of spending time at that ‘special’ place, but he was sure that if he wanted answers about the Thunder Brothers and the drug trade on campus, there was no better place to start asking questions.
Sure enough as they reached what was known by the locals as the God Tree, they encountered a cluster of students. The God Tree had no religious ties other than a local legend which said that the university had been built over the grounds of an ancient temple which had been destroyed by a violent storm. The tall and large hundred years old tree was according to the legend the only thing left over from the temple. Over the years it had become one of the favorite hangout spots for students.
‘The fact that it is located on the outskirts of campus, far from the headquarters of the university police, and within walking distance of a liquor store which is lax in checking the ID’s of youngsters, I am sure also helped raise the popularity of the tree…’ Sesshoumaru reflected to himself. His golden eyes took in a group of young men sitting under the shade of the large leaves of the tree while sharing beers.
More than their unlawful drinking in a public space, what attracted Sesshoumaru’s attention was that one of the men in the group fit perfectly the description of Hiten Shippou had given him earlier today. The sharp eyes and long braid were a dead giveaway after all.
“Let me do the talking.” Sesshoumaru hissed to his lover before walking out to the group of young men. Kagura scoffed in response, but shrugged her shoulders in an accepting gesture.
“Whatcha looking at?” Hiten growled once Sesshoumaru stepped in front of him, blocking the incoming sun light, and bathing his body into shadows.
“Hiten and his Thunder Brothers, I presume.”
The cocky smiled on the younger man’s face did not leave Hiten’s face. He took the time to take a large swig of his beer before answering Sesshoumaru’s question. “Why’re you asking? Are you a cop or something?”
“No, I am merely a journalist. My name is Sesshoumaru Tashio, and this is Kagura Jiyuu my… collaborator.” He turned around to look at his lover standing next to him.
“Yeah, and so what do you want?” Hiten barked back.
“Your words. I have heard about an interesting story concerning your brother Manten, and something called… the miko powder.”
Hiten suddenly sprung to his feet in a quick move, leaving his beer unattended on the grass as Sesshoumaru’s words garnered his full attention. “What the hell do you know about this damn drug?”
Kagura noticed the rapid change of attitude in Hiten. He had appeared smug, bored and a little amused when Sesshoumaru and she had first approached him, but now he was alert and angry.
“No need to get upset.” Kagura intervened. “We are looking for answers as well when it comes to the miko powder.” The young woman had never heard of such a thing as miko powder, but based on Sesshoumaru’s words, she inferred that it was the name of the drug that had caused for Manten to be put in a coma.
“You said you weren’t cops, but journalists, so what do you know about my brother and that fucking drug?” Even as he relaxed, Hiten could not help but question the motives of the two people who had just appeared in front of him. Another reason why he was wary was that he would not put it past the people of Edo University to try to get him to admit to the illegal deeds of his band of Thunder Brothers through a ruse; they had after all been trying to get rid of him for a long time. Since Edo was a public university, they could not expel him without having sure proof of his illegal actions.
As soon as Shippou had told him about the drug related issues on the Edo campus, Sesshoumaru had thought of two angles he could give to his writing piece. He could either focus on Hiten, his Thunder Brothers and the drama of Manten being in the hospital, or he could write about the war the young Associated Students president was waging against drugs on campus. Sesshoumaru was aware that the majority of readers of Shikon Magazine were female, and was sure they would enjoy reading about a young woman’s fight to clean up her campus rather than gang issues. But as he was still in the stage of gathering information, he had yet to decide which way to go. He wanted to speak with both Hiten and the student body president before making a decision.
“I do not know as much as I would like. I know you are looking for the people responsible for your brother’s hospitalization, and being featured in the media might help you get more exposure, and facilitate in your search.” In truth, the male journalist knew that being featured in Shikon Magazine might hinder Hiten in his search as he was sure the younger man wanted to rely on more illegal and forceful means. Being in the spotlight might therefore prevent the young delinquent front being able to do that.
Hiten frowned as he mulled over Sesshoumaru’s words. Stomping footsteps coming from behind the two journalists however prevented him from offering a response.
“What are you doing? You should be ashamed of yourselves! Why are you enabling these delinquents?!” The young woman spat angrily at Sesshoumaru and Kagura. Then as something occurred to her, the young woman then added. “Actually you should be ashamed of trying to buy drugs… period!”
“Well well, if it isn’t the illustrious president of our Associated Students organization? Did you lose yourself on the way to the ‘Land of the good girls’?” Hiten’s mocking remark made his Thunder Brothers, who were still spread out under the God Tree, chuckled heartily.
“Don’t try to make fun of me Hiten. After what happened to your brother, how can you still deal with drugs?” She shook her head in dismay. Her words caused the older man’s face contort in a mask of pure rage.
“Kagome, you stupid bitch. When will you get it through you thick head that I’m not selling that damn miko powder?!” His harsh words brought a grimace to her face. “What, angry? Where’s your little puppy? He isn’t here to defend you honor today?”
“Shut up Hiten! Don’t talk to Kagome like that.”
The two co-editors of Shikon Magazine who were too busy watching the two college students engage in a screaming match were caught unaware by another person joining their group. They turned to look at the newcomer, and even as Sesshoumaru’s golden eyes opened wide in shock, it was Kagura who let out a loud gasp.
“Keh! Who the hell are you, and what are you doing here?!”
To be continued…
A/N: I am sure my dear readers can guess who the newcomer might be. The next chapter will be named Advice section. I will try my best to have it up as soon as possible.
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