InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Beat of a Butterfly's Wings ❯ Bewitchment and Possession ( Chapter 4 )

Disclaimer: They aren't mine. At all. ( `-` ) Too bad.

 

Notes: You probably all know this stuff but just in case I'm going to put it up here ( `-` )

 

Manekineko: Japanese lucky cat ( I can't resist buying them whenever I see them ha.)

 

Okonomiyaki: Japanese style `pancake' also sometimes known in English as `As you like it pancake'

 

31: Japanese sometime call Baskin Robbins 31 or 31 Ice cream

^ ^

Now, to the chapter… Hope you enjoy! m( ='-`= )m

 

 

 

Chapter Four: Bewitchment and Possession

 

 

 

 

The next week was pure craziness - with a generous helping of torture on the side for added effect. At every opportunity Sango and/or Miroku would give me these irritating “knowing” looks or voice comments that should never have even been thought of in the first place. They seemed to have formed some coalition and were determined to find a way to get myself and Mr. Taisho together, as they seemed to think that there was something between us. Both ideas, to put it in simple language, were just absurd. Me with the Sesshoumaru Taisho was just not something that would ever happen. I was a schoolteacher, he was a successful businessman. I was nothing special, and he was extraordinary. I was nothing to be sought after, while he was held high above the masses as Japan's most attractive bachelor. It was just that simple. He would never desire to have any other type of a relationship with me other than the one that we had now… Which, I had to admit, I really wasn't sure what our relationship was at the minute. I certainly didn't go to dinner or spend several hours dancing and chatting with any of the parents of my other students. What exactlyis our relationship, I wondered, the next Friday as I sat down heavily in my desk chair after the bell signaling the beginning of lunch break rang and half the children had left their seats to get their lunch boxes to take to the cafeteria. Maybe I'm just so odd that he finds me an amusing person to talk to… to kill time, I mused as I fiddled with my manekineko cell-phone ornament.

 

As if Sango and Miroku's teasing words and scheming ideas hadn't been bad enough, every time I closed my eyes, memories of that particular white-haired businessman would flash through my thoughts. Scenes from that Friday night had rose to the forefront of my mind so many times in the past week that I had quickly lost count. No matter how hard I tried to block the images and the thoughts that teased and tortured me I failed. My mind knew that he was so far out of my reach, that he was somewhere I could never go, but a traitorous part of me tried to stretch, to reach that place where the powerful man resided. And every time I had nearly quelled the silly thoughts, a particularly bright little 5 year old demon girl would come bouncing into the classroom, eyes bright and loving, and the idiotic thoughts would spring to life yet again.

 

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“Inuyasha,” I growled, snapping yet another pencil in half in my frustration.

 

“What,” he snapped, turning to glare at me.

 

“Get me Ayame,” I ordered.

 

“You leave her alone Sesshoumaru,” my father's booming voice floated through the open doorway between our offices. “You've already terrified the poor girl enough as it is today. “

 

“I've done nothing of the sort,” I scoffed, throwing the splintered pencil into the garbage next to my desk.

 

He strode through the door as Inuyasha gave me a look that said, “You are so clueless.”

 

“You most certainly have,” he grumbled.

 

I glared at him, struggling to come up with a biting remark even though I knew what he said was right. However, before I could speak, he frowned and muttered, “It's unusual for you get this… this temperamental.” He crossed his arms over his chest. “What in the world has gotten you all tied up in knots? I know the deal with Kiruka Corp. went south but that's hardly a problem. And besides, I've never know you to be bothered this much by a deal going bad.”

 

I resisted the urge to growl in frustration, clenching and unclenching my fist as I leaned back in my chair, trying to get my tense muscles to relax. `What's gotten me all tied up in knots' you ask. I'll tell you what! A blue-eyed devil woman who refuses to leave my thoughts, that's what. An angel that seems to be trying to completely possess me and is doing a damned good job of it.

 

“I'm fine,” I growled. “Just feeling a bit distracted,” I continued through clenched teeth. I heard Ayame squeak from her desk outside the door; no doubt she'd felt the angry currents of energy that were rolling off me in waves.

 

“Also very unlike you,” he muttered completely unfazed by the dark aura that was swirling around me. He gave me a calculating look and continued, “Look, go home. Your brother and I can handle these files. Go pick up your daughter, relax, and have fun. Get whatever is wrong with you worked out of your system over the weekend and we'll see you back on Monday.”

 

“Father-,” I started.

 

“No `but's', son. Go home,” he shook his head, eyes stern.

 

I knew it was pure foolishness to try to butt heads with him; something I had learned after several particularly painful disagreements in my younger years. However, knowing that didn't keep from wanting to argue with him. I was feeling reckless today and a good row sounded kind of nice. Eyebrow rising I opened my mouth to refuse.

 

“Sesshoumaru,” he growled, “Don't make me throw you through that wall. I'd rather not have to bring in another carpenter crew. It's expensive as well as an unnecessarily annoying racket.”

 

Oh hell, I thought dryly.

 

“Fine,” I growled, and reached to bring my briefcase up off the floor and on to my desk. “Then I'm turning my phone off for the weekend so you two are completely on your own.”

 

He snorted, rolling his eyes. “I'm quite sure we'll be just fine Sesshoumaru, now get going,” he laughed, turning on his heel and disappearing into his cavernous office.

 

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After Sesshoumaru left the office taking his boiling cloud of darkness with him Father popped his head through the door cautiously before strolling casually into the room and sitting on Sesshoumaru's desk, a thoughtful look on his face. I quirked an eyebrow in question and he finally spoke.

 

“What do you suppose is up with our walking, talking cloud of doom?”

 

“Oh,” I mumbled. “Beats me.”

 

“It can't be the business deal,” he muttered, staring at the ceiling as he concentrated.

 

“No, that's a no-brainer,” I snorted.

 

“Besides, he's been irritable off and on all week,” he sighed, tapping his fingers on the polished surface of the desk.

 

“Nothing new with his ex either,” I shrugged, “I can't think of anything unusual.”

 

“When exactly did he start getting so cranky?”

 

“Saturday,” I answered promptly, “He was distracted and in a bad mood by lunch time.”

 

“Hmm,” he said thoughtfully. “I know he dislike that business party, but he actually seemed to be enjoying himself this year… Very odd.”

 

“Right,” I nodded, “He spent the whole evening with that gorgeous hottie - he'd be even weirder than I thought if he didn't enjoy himself.”

 

“You mean the teacher?” he asked.

 

“Yeah, he said she was just someone to talk to but they sure seemed to be dancing an awful lot. I got the feeling he was just bluffing to himself and to me,” I shrugged.

 

He started laughing suddenly, quietly at first but it quickly grew loud and boisterous. “Of course,” he finally wheezed. “The teacher,” he threw his head back and laughed loudly one more time before he managed to get a hold of himself. “He's always seen being with a woman as a weakness and after he finally came down out of the clouds and joined the rest of us normal people, who see it as a good thing, he got his heart stomped on. Thoroughly. So, not surprisingly, since then he's been even more adamant in his belief that woman aren't worth the time of day. And now, in comes Rin's teacher who I speculate is playing with his thoughts.” He chuckled, “Sesshoumaru hates not being in control. No wonder he's losing it.”

 

I burst out laughing so hard I thought I would bust a gut.

 

“Oh how the mighty have fallen,” he smirked.

 

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I pulled into the school parking lot, tires screeching as I came to a stop and parked, striding into the building about 5 minutes before the dismissal bell was going to ring. Coming to stand next to Rin's classroom I heard a familiar voice, like the sweetest music, “Alright guys, time to start cleaning up. We need to talk about next week's volunteer project.” At the sound of her voice I felt myself relax noticeably and I couldn't help but frown. This woman is going to drive me insane, I decided, sighing, and running a hand through my hair, this is just getting to be preposterous.

The Friday we had spent so many hours together, she had not kept me reasonably entertained as I had hoped for. No, instead she had been immensely entertaining, charming, beautiful, sexy; to sum it up into a word, she had been the most bewitching creature that I had ever laid eyes on. Her heady scent, those sparkling indigo orbs, her mischievous smiles, the way she was so smart yet so innocent, the way she saw the world, the way her perfect body felt dancing close to mine - the more time I spent with her the more I found myself drawn to her. For the past week she had rarely left my thoughts and the few times that she had she hadn't gone far for she was back, skipping through the corridors of my mind, all too soon. I'd grown even more worried about my outlandish fascination with this little teacher, but despite all my trepidations I couldn't pull myself away from thoughts of her.

 

My frown having grown dark I shook myself out of my broodings as the bell rang and the noise from the classrooms exploded. The door to her room flew open, slamming again the wall with a loud, reverberating “wham!” and the children began to flood out into the hall joining the collective mass that had already reached the hall.

 

As I waited for Rin to exit the room, trying to figure out if I wanted to see Kagome or not - to be more accurate I was trying to decided whether or not it was wise as there was no question whether I wanted to see her or not - I heard her ask quietly, “Rin, are you ok hun?”

 

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“I'm fine,” she said with a small smile while her eyes remained confused. She turned suddenly to look at the door, the weak smile wilting into a puzzled frown and I followed her line of sight to find the man who had been haunting me all week. My heart skipped a beat, My gosh, does he have to be so quiet; I didn't here a blinkin' sound! Give me a flippin' heart attack, I grumbled.

 

“Mr. Taisho,” I squeaked, heart firmly logged in my throat.

 

“Dad, what are you doing here so early?” Rin asked, voice low and suspicious and I turned to glance at her. Face twisted in her confusion she added, “You said you'd be at work today until at least 7.”

 

I turned back to look at Sesshoumaru who attempted to smile as he said, “I have the rest of the day off as well as the weekend so I've come to pick you up.”

 

A startled look crossed Rin's face and she said accusatorily, “Dad, were you hassling Ayame again?”

 

“Why does everyone keep telling me that I'm hassling the woman?” he grumbled, crossing his arms over his chest, eyes indignant.

 

“Because you do,” she replied quickly, “I didn't just hear about it from Grandpa either.”

 

“I'm sure,” he rolled his eyes. “I think we both know who has the biggest mouth in the family.”

 

Rin giggled then and stood up from her desk, grabbing her pack and slinging it over her shoulder. “Dad,” she said sweetly as she came to the front of the classroom.

 

“Yes, Rin,” he said, eyes growing suspicious.

 

“Why were you hassling Ayame?” she asked, pinning him with a curious look. I nearly laughed out loud as Rin placed her hands on her hips.

“Ms. Higurashi,” a torturously attractive male voice spoke quickly and my mental sniggering was brought to a skidding halt.

 

Swinging my head to look at him, eyes wide - I must look like a raccoon in front of an approaching car on the highway - I finally managed to squeak, “Uh~?”

 

“Do you like Studio Ghibli?” he asked, eyes like the sun catching mine, holding them captive and I felt my lungs struggling to draw air. I had a vivid flashback to last Friday when he had first pulled me close, placing his hand on my back as we prepared to dance. I'm going to faint…

 

“Uh,” I breathed slightly, “Why do you ask?” I finally managed to ask smartly. Smooth - way to go Kagome, I thought doing a little mental victory dance. Answering random questions with a question of your own, often an excellent plan of action, ha-ha, I rambled, a bit loopy, undoubtedly from the lack of oxygen reaching my flustered brain.

 

“Rin's been wanting to go see the newest one that's in theaters, but we haven't had a chance yet,” he stepped further into the room, taking long strides until he stood directly in front of us and my stomach flip-flopped. “Since I'm off early today I was thinking that it would be the perfect opportunity and I was wondering if you would like to come with us,” he finished, golden eyes warm as they continued to imprison mine.

 

Rin squealed in excitement before I could even open my mouth, “Really Dad?!” She began jumping up and down excitedly and then grabbed my hand turning large puppy dog eyes on me, “Please Higurashi-sensei, please~! It'll be so much fun! I know you'll love it!”

 

My brain had been, albeit slowly and clumsily, preparing words of refusal, as it was completely inappropriate for me, as her teacher, to go with them. However, I am terribly susceptible to big puppy dog eyes and another pair of beautiful eyes was simultaneously pushing me to accept. Not surprisingly I found myself nearly caves as I said, “I would love to but,” I paused, struggling to fight against the part of me that wanted to accept, “As your teacher I don't think it would be acceptable for me to say `yes'. I'm sorry,” I smiled apologetically at Rin as her jumping slowed to a stop and she frowned.

 

Good grief! Puppy dog eyes, crushed smiles, and cursed gold eyes! Why me? I moaned, resisting the urge to throw my hands up in the air and growl in frustration.

 

“Tripe,” Sesshoumaru said smoothly. “You've tried to use that excuse before Kagome. Need I remind you how well it worked for you last time?” He smirked and I felt torn, half of me wanting to slap him and the other half wanting to find a more pleasant way to get the aggravating expression off of his face.

 

Oh go- Don't even go there, Kagome!

 

“Please, Higurashi-sensei,” Rin begged, squeezing my hand. “We won't tell anyone.”

 

That's not what I'm worried about, I grumbled and with a sigh broke. Surrendering I said, “Alright, as long as you're sure it's no trouble.”

 

“Of course not,” Rin cried happily grabbing her father's hand, her other hand firmly wrapped around mine. Sesshoumaru didn't miss her actions; looking down at her little hands connecting us I saw a heartbroken look flood his eyes for a fleeting moment before it was violently extinguished. He looked up then, our eyes meeting, and I knew he knew I had seen it but tried to pretend otherwise. It hurt, seeing such a kind man in a moment of heartbroken weakness. Let him pretend, I just wish there was something I could do… It's awful to see that look in anyone's eyes.

 

“We can go to dinner afterwards, too, if you don't have any other plans” he added, holding my eyes as Rin strode forward, excitedly pulling us toward the door, obviously forgetting that I hadn't grabbed my briefcase.

 

“Hold up hun, I have to get my stuff,” I laughed, retrieving my hand and turning back to my desk, gathering up my things.

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“Dad,” Rin whispered quietly as Kagome messily shuffled papers on her desk, noisily sweeping and stuffing them into her briefcase. “I'll let you explain later.”

 

“I don't know what you're talking about,” I said even more quietly.

 

“Uh-huh,” she said, obviously not believing me for a split second. “Later,” she said in a voice that gave no room for argument, something she had no doubt learned from me.

 

She's too smart for her own good, I thought grumpily as Kagome began walking back to us, a small smile on her full lips.

 

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I looked at the folder for the umpteenth time since Kanna had placed it on my desk Monday morning. Kagome Higurashi's file…

 

5'6”

Blue Eyes

Black hair

21 years old, born 1985, October 31

 

*Originally from Nagoya, her family, which consists of a grandfather, mother, and younger brother named Souta, still live there on an old shrine's grounds. *Father died when she was 10 years old from cancer.

*Graduate of Chiba University's Education department.

*Currently works at Nakagawa Private School for Elementary Children.

*She and Sesshoumaru Taisho met because his daughter is in her 3rd grade class; not much more than that concerning their relationship is known as of yet.

*Best friends are Miroku Tadokoro and Sango Takahashi, both of who are reporters, entertainment and business respectively, at Tokyo Beat Magazine. They are the ones who invited and brought her to the party last Friday.

 

*Habits: volunteers every weekend nearly without fail - often works at a soup kitchen near downtown and an animal shelter close to the school where she works. She also often goes to dance clubs and Izakaya restaurants with her friends. Their favorite dance club appears to be Club Atom in Shibuya as they are most often seen there, although they haven't been there for a while.

 

*Lives in: A small apartment 15 minutes by train from the school.

 

I stopped reading, feeling no need to read the address that had already been burned into my mind. Slapping it down on the desk as I leaned back in my leather chair, a growl rippling up through my chest I closed my eyes and called to mind the image of the sexy temptress from Friday night. As frustrating as it was I was going to watch for now; waiting for the perfect opportunity. Sesshoumaru seemed to have taken an interest in her and he was no fool as he obviously didn't trust my motives for a second. He would be on the alert for a while and while I wasn't afraid of the man, he was powerful and I would have to approach the entire situation with cunning and patience if I didn't want to get burned. For now I'll watch from the shadows, study her, and when the time is right I'll be ready to take her. For the time being I'll just have to keep myself appeased by spending my time planning and thinking about all the things I'll get to enjoy doing with my newest interest once I have her in my hands. I smirked as I put my hands behind my head and stretched my long length as I stood up from behind my desk, muscles rippling in anticipation.

 

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“Hey Miroku,” I called, as I crossed the room heading towards him, “When are you getting off tonight?”

 

He straightened stiffly from the table that he was bent over, hands on his hips, and threw over his shoulder, “About 6,” he grunted. “Why?”

 

Coming to a stop beside him I looked down at the project he and a fellow worker, Yokomizu-san, were working on. Photos of colorfully dressed people who were dancing, drinking, and having a wild time were scattered all over the table along with pamphlets and random papers that held very little meaning for me. “Is that the after party of that fashion show you covered two days ago?”

 

“Yup,” he smiled at me briefly before turning back to glare at the mess on the table. “We're trying to decide what pictures will be best. We want to make sure that the energy of the party is really felt when reading the article and seeing the pictures. You know,” he shrugged, “We want to make the readers feel like they'd actually been there themselves.”

 

I snorted, “They all look like they would work.”

 

“That my dear,” he gave me a pitying look, “Is because you cover business which makes just about anything look like a wild party.”

 

“Are you saying I don't know how to have fun? Because if you are I-“

 

His eyes sparkled with a look of pure tomfoolery. “And what if I was?”

 

“I would say that you are just saying that to get me riled up enough to do something completely wild and crazy just to prove that I know how to have a good time. That's what I would say, you pervert,” I growled, crossing my arms over my chest, sending him my best glare.

 

Unfortunately my glares and growls failed, as usual, to intimidate him enough to

get him to capitulate. I must be getting too soft, I thought mournfully as he opened that attractive mouth of his. Oh my go- I did not just think that! Ugh…

 

“I'm hurt that you think of me that way,” he teased, lips forming an exaggerated pout as he shot me puppy dog eyes. Gah! I wish he wouldn't do that… my growl quickly fading into a pained, Oh go- I should just take that ridiculous, protruding lip and- Shite, shite, shite. Bad Sango, bad. This is Miroku. Your friend. Just your friend, I scolded myself, desperately trying to pry my eyes away from his tempting mouth and focus on what he was currently saying in that attractive voice of his. Shite.

 

“But why did you want to know when I get off work tonight?”

 

“Believe it or not,” I grumped, tapping a foot on the floor extremely aggravated and out of joint, “I was going to suggest that we call up Kagome and go down to Atom for a good night out on the town. It's Friday night and it's been a while since we went to there.”

 

“Hmm,” he said, giving me a dubious look, “Were you really thinking about that, or did my comment trigger this brilliant idea.” I opened my mouth to retort when he quickly added, reaching out to place a hand on my arm, “I'm joking, I'm joking! It's a great idea so why don't you call Kagome and let me know what the concrete plan is, alright?”

 

“Ok,” I mumbled, trying very hard to focus on something, anything, other than the hand that rested on my arm. Eyes searching for a distraction I made the mistake of looking up at his eyes and felt myself fall into them. With every ounce of will that was in my body I broke away from him, walking back to my desk to get out my cell. Shite, everyday it's becoming harder and harder to work with him without letting him know what I really think… I don't know how much longer I can do this…How much longer I can hide it… Why does he have to be so cursed attractive? And funny? And charming? And infuriating? Ugh. Whoever is up there must be finding this whole situation terribly amusing, I groaned, flipping my phone open and hitting Kagome's button in a fluid, practiced motion.

 

It rang twice before my friend's cheerful laughter bubbled over the speaker and she gasped, “Kagome speaking, may I help you?”

 

“Kagome, you should really try to check the caller ID sometime before you pick up,” I muttered, still perturbed by my lack of control and the cruelty of the universe.

 

“Oh! Hey Sango,” she chirped happily. Boy she's certainly in a good mood, I laughed. “What's up?”

 

“Miroku and I were thinking of going to Atom tonight. We haven't gone out for a long time so we wondering if tonight worked for you, or not?” I asked, leaning against my desk.

 

“'Bout what time,” she asked, interest lacing her tone.

 

“Well, what time is good? Nine, ten?”

 

“Hmm,” she murmured thoughtfully, “How about 10? That should give me enough time to get ready. Is Miroku going to pick us up?”

 

“Yeah, like usual,” I muttered, distracted by the noises that I heard coming from the background. “Uh, Kags, what're you doing now?”

 

“Oh, um, I just went to a movie with Rin,” she replied innocently. Too innocently.

 

“With Rin? What in the world are doing going to a movie with Rin? Is her father there with you as well,” I questioned rapidly, ears straining to better hear the voices surrounding her.

 

“Why?” she asked and then I caught it, a smooth, unmistakable male voice saying, “Rin, where should we go eat?”

 

“Never mind,” I said, storing away this new information for later use. Oh tonight it going to be rich, I thought mischievously. “We'll see you at 10 at your place, don't be late,” I said cheerfully as I picked up my purse and pushed away from the desk.

 

“Alright, thanks hun,” she replied cheerfully, “See you later!”

 

“Un, bye-bye,” I smiled then closed the phone with a snap, sliding it into the cell compartment in my purse. “Miroku, 10 O'clock, Kagome's place.”

 

“So pick you up at 9:30 then,” he replied, turning his back to the table once again to face me.

 

“Yes sir, if you would be so kind,” I laughed. “Until then,” I waved, sweeping out the door, already trying to figure out what I should wear. Decisions, decisions…

 

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“Sorry,” she smiled, hanging up the phone with a loud snap. “That was my friend Sango, you remember, you met her on Friday.”

 

“Oh, yes,” I nodded. “And her friend Miroku,” I added with a snicker resulting in a sharp glance from her, amusement dancing in her eyes.

 

She burst into loud, boisterous laughter, holding her sides as her whole body shook from the force of her mirth. “Oh come on,” I chuckled, “You know you were thinking it.”

 

“Are you kidding me?!” she wheezed, looking up at me with wide blue eyes, “I've been thinking it for years. I think they are the only ones to dense to notice it! But I have to admit, I never would have thought you were the type of person who would care to notice.”

 

I sniffed, pretending to be offended, “I can't help if my nose forces me to notice things that are none of my business.” Dropping the act I continued, “Have you ever tried to give them, you know, a little helpful hand, a gentle shove or anything like that?” I asked, eyebrow raised.

 

Both of hers rose to match as she asked, disbelief lacing her voice, “Once again, are you kidding me,” she squeaked. “I have tried so many times, everything short of being blunt, but they're just to dull-witted when it comes to each other that they don't get any of the subtle hints. I'm about ready to lose patience with them though and am sorely tempted to be painfully blunt,” she grumbled, shaking her head, obviously remembering a failed subtle attempt. “I was impressed that they actually danced together a few times last Friday though,” she chuckled.

 

“It couldn't hurt, surely,” I said thoughtfully, “They obviously both like each other so once it's out in the open they'd probably be too busy being happy to worry about being embarrassed.”

 

“Oh, I've thought about that though,” she frowned shaking her head, “but it wouldn't work. If I did it in front of both of them then they'd both be falling over themselves trying to deny that they liked the other one - for fear that the other didn't feel the same way.”

 

I thought about it for a second before saying, “Well then why don't you just pull one of them aside, the most confident one, and tell them?”

 

She stopped walking suddenly, a look of painful concentration on her face. What I wouldn't give to see inside that mind of yours, I thought as she suddenly grimaced. “I don't know… I guess I could see tonight though,” she shrugged. “We're going to Club Atom together at 10.”

 

“Club Atom?” I asked, an eyebrow rising incredulously before I could stop it. “You? Club Atom?”

 

Puzzled, she looked up me, but just as she opened her mouth to speak Rin piped up, “Dad, what's Club Atom?”

 

I winced and glanced down at my daughter while Kagome just laughed. “Sesshoumaru, it's just a dance club. It's not like it's something dirty,” she giggled.

 

“Yes, but,” I stuttered, trying to physically start the spins and gears in my brain. I couldn't seem to get rid of the image of a very scantily dressed Kagome on the dance floor surrounded by hungry, predatory men who would take advantage of her in a heartbeat. On one hand it made my heart skip a beat, seeing an image of her dressed like that. Then, on the other hand it made my blood race and the more animalistic part of me go on high alert. Forcing both parts of me - the drooling quarter and the growling quarter - down with a forceful mental smashing I tried to focus on forming words and actually getting them out coherently. Something seems to be wrong with my mouth, I grumbled as I fought with the malfunctioning body part, Piece of shite, I growled, extremely miffed.

 

“No `but's',” she laughed, taking her small hand and playfully pushing my chest.

 

She's as weak as a child, I thought horrified. She should not be at a place where so many men would love any opportunity to play with her. My go-, I shook myself as I started to get worked up again. She's a grown woman. It's her choice, not yours you adolescent worrywart! I snapped.

 

“We go there all the time, but it's actually been a while so they thought we should go tonight,” she smiled, shrugging nonchalantly. Of course you can be nonchalant about it, I whined, you're so innocent and sweet I think you'd try to help an injured viper.

 

“Do you like to dance Higurashi-sensei?” Rin asked, eyes wide.

 

“Yes, I do,” she smiled at Rin like the angel that she was. Angel? Oh my go- What

in the Seven Hells is wrong with me? I'm going mad…

 

“I have to admit, I never would have guessed that you were the type that enjoyed going to places like Club Atom,” I blurted out stupidly before I could stop myself. I barely resisted the groan that tried to escape my lips. Idiot. Insult here some more why don't you, you ass.

 

Her eyebrow twitched spastically before she settled on giving me a dull look that said, “Oh, you too, huh? Why am I not surprised?”

 

“So are you one of those people that expects teachers to not know how to go out and have a little fun, huh?”

 

“No, it's just,” I stuttered.

 

“You have something against dancing Sesshoumaru?” she asked, eyebrow cocked as she crossed her arms over her chest. “Because I seem to distinctly remember that you were the one who asked me to dance on Friday night,” her eyes gloated, victory dancing in their blue depths. She had me and she knew it. Damn.

 

“I have nothing against dancing,” I grumbled, crossing my arms over my chest defensively. “It's just that I didn't realize you enjoyed going to a place where men would be crawling all over you and use dancing as an excuse to try to something inappropriate.” Oh God, I'm dead.

 

Why me?

 

Her eyes narrowed dangerously, and for the first time since I had met her I saw a side of Kagome that was not all smiles, sweetness, or wide-eyed shock. I saw first-hand why there had been no repeat teasing of Rin - Kagome Higurashi was downright terrifying when she chose to be. `Sesshoumaru Taisho,' I thought, `human age 26, Vice president of Taisho & Sons, died early on June 15th when he was justifiably murdered by his daughter's human 3rd grade teacher after insulting her unforgivably.' That is what my obituary will read. 'Murdered by an angry blue-eyed angel.'

 

“Just because I enjoy going dancing does not by any means automatically translate into me enjoying men `crawling all over me' as you so delicately put it,” she glowered, eyes fiery, and the man who was never afraid or intimidated nearly quaked. Sesshoumaru, get a hold of yourself! I chastised, trying to stand firm against the onslaught of blue flames.

 

“Nor does it mean that I let any men crawl all over me,” she growled, hands fisted and on her hips, holding her aggressive pose. I opened my mouth in an attempt to masterfully, or not so masterfully, back pedal as fast as I could. Rin got words out of her mouth first though.

 

“Dad, what were you doing dancing with sensei last Friday? I thought you had to go to the business party?” she chirped, looking up at both of us completely perplexed.

 

“

 

“

 

“

“Nor does it mean that I let any men crawl all over me.”

 

Higurashi-sensei looked mad enough to take my Dad's head off, although I was at a loss as to why. Obviously they knew something about these dance clubs that I didn't know. No big surprise there since I've never been to one, I thought with a mental shrug. I didn't care about their little verbal tussle - if you could even call it that. I was the most concerned about when sensei had said in a challenging tone, “You have something against dancing Sesshoumaru? Because I seem to distinctly remember that you were the one who asked me to dance on Friday night.”

 

Dad and Teacher dancing last week? Now that just didn't make any sense. Dad was supposedly at the hated business party - not out dancing with Teacher. If he was dancing with her does that mean he skipped the party and ran into her at one of these dance clubs? But if he was at one of the dance clubs when he asked her to dance, then he shouldn't have such a problem with her going to one. I am so lost, I sighed, flustered then looked up at my Dad.

 

He looked like he was trying to come up with something smart to say, but the fierce look Teacher was giving him was obviously getting in the way of his brain's processes. I decided to take advantage of the tense silence and ask the question that was dancing on my tongue, “Dad, what were you doing dancing with sensei last Friday? I thought you had to go to the business party?”

 

He blinked, tearing his eyes away from her face and looked down at my eyes, lost for a minute before he caught up with my question. “What?” Okay so maybe he hasn't caught up with me yet, I sighed.

 

“Higurashi-sensei said that you two danced on Friday evening? How can that be if you were at the business party?” I reiterated. Teacher flinched then, the fire in her eyes slowly cooling before she too, looked down at me.

 

“Huh?” she mumbled smartly. Boy, they aren't normally this good at talking, I smirked sarcastically.

 

Dad shook his head and said in a flat voice, eyebrow quirked, “Ms. Higurashi was invited by her two friends to the party - that's why we were dancing.”

 

Actually, I thought, that's how you were dancing, not why, but I guess I'll let you get away with that comment for now Dad. I barely resisted the urge to tease him in front of her though, It would just be so priceless.

 

Suddenly Dad spoke again, looking at Teacher, eyes apologetic, “I'm sorry Kagome, I didn't mean for my comment to sound like that. And you're right; I shouldn't make sweeping statements like that. I'm afraid today I'm just a little on edge. Please accept my apology.” He bowed slightly and I felt my jaw drop. Now that's not something you normally see from him, I thought, slightly dumbstruck.

 

It seemed to work quite well though because the fire that had started to grow in her eyes again - she didn't let things go easily, something I had learned about her while having her as my teacher - was snuffed out in an instant. It was then rapidly replaced with concern. “That's fine,” she smiled, “Did something happen at work today?”

 

“You could say that, yes,” he frowned slightly, “I really am very sorry.”

 

“No problem, I'm sorry too,” she laughed suddenly, “Sometimes I let my temper get the best of me. But really, you have no idea how many people try to tell me that as a teacher I shouldn't be out dancing. It's like people think that if you're a teacher then you can't have any fun - which is just absurd. We need to let loose just as much as anybody else.”

 

“Completely understandable,” he smiled, reaching down and taking my hand in his. “Now let's go to that okonomiyaki place you like, Rin. And after that we'll head to the nearest 31 Ice Cream shop. Are you still up for dinner Kagome?”

 

“I'm always up for okonomiyaki,” she laughed and he began to move forward careful not to move to fast for us. I couldn't help myself then, there was just something about walking with the two of them - it felt so right. Unable to resist, I reached out and grabbed Higurashi-sensei's hand, and for the second time that afternoon linked my father and my teacher together with my own hands.

 

“

 

“

 

“

 

I knocked on her door, trying to calm myself. No kissing, no touching, no professing your true feelings - damned this is so unfair.

 

“Coming,” she called from inside her apartment, voice like bird song.

 

“Alright,” I called back, stuffing my hands into my pockets nervously. I hope I look all right, I thought, flustered as always when I was waiting for her. I was always fashionable - it came with the territory of being the Entertainment reporter. I also never worried about how I looked, except when Sango was going to be coming around. Then it was impossible for me not to worry. I swear she sucks up all of my normal confidence more than any other person I know. The only other person who could make me lose my confidence or be nervous like she can was Kagome when we were in college and I touched her butt. That was of course more of a terrified, `I'm going to die' loss of confidence, not a `Do I look like a total loser, dork in this outfit,' loss of guts.

 

“

 

“

 

“

 

I jumped when the knock sounded on the door and quickly tried to calm myself, “Coming,” I shouted, grabbing my purse and keys before looking at myself in the mirror one last time. “Good as it's going to get,” I grumbled, tugging on a corner of my shirt nervously, then strode out of my bedroom.

 

Sliding into my black stiletto heels I opened the door to find Miroku standing there, hands in his pockets with an odd look on his face. “Hey,” I greeted casually, hiding my anxiety.

 

“Hey,” he smiled, “You look nice,” he added, trying to stare discreetly.

 

I felt my cheeks growing warm and quickly barked, “What, you act like you've never seen me in a halter top before,” and I could've sworn that for an instant his cheeks were stained red.

 

“I have of course,” he laughed, “but you still look very nice.” He paused to give me another quick look over, “It's a new one isn't? The color and cut suits you,” he finished with a cocky smile. I'm going to lose it, I thought panicking. I can't let him know how much I love it when he looks at me like that… Or says things like that.. Oh go-

 

“Thanks,” I mumbled, “You don't look so bad yourself,” I finished, looking him over quickly. Understatement of the century, I thought glumly, He looks gorgeous. Damn him for being so extraordinarily gorgeous. While most men looked hot in a dress shirt like he was wearing, he looked, well as corny as it sounds it's the only word that fits: ravishing. On top of that he had to be extra cruel and have the first couple buttons undone, exposing some of his nicely shaped chest. He should unbutton a couple more, I thought giddily, my shirt is showing a fair amount as it is; it's only fair, right?

 

“Thanks,” he chuckled and I felt butterflies flutter in my gut. “Alright, let's get going babe.”

 

“Who are you calling `babe', you perv,” I growled to hide my embarrassment as he turned to walk down the steps. Despite myself I couldn't help but watch his ass in his jeans as I followed behind. I am the ultimate hypocrite, I thought miserably.

 

But such a fine ass…

 

“

 

“

 

“

 

I opened the front door and Rin burst through happily, kicking off her shoes before she began twirling in circles. “Today was so much fun, Dad,” she crowed. “The movie was amazing!”

 

“It was really good wasn't,” I laughed, setting my briefcase down on the dining room table.

 

“You never told me about dancing with her last week,” she smirked, her spinning come to a drunken stop. “Have you two done anything else together,” she asked, a suspicious glint in her lively eyes.

 

My brain stuttered to a stop at the sudden change of subject. “What are you talking about Rin?” I grumbled.

 

“You and Teacher. Dancing on Friday,” she repeated patiently. “And if there was anything else you forgot to mention?”

 

I opened my mouth to tell her that it wasn't my duty to tell her everything that I did, but she knew me to well and quickly added, “And don't even try to use the `not my job to tell you everything I do' excuse.”

 

I rolled my eyes as I walked past her, around the end of the couch, and then fell back onto it, letting my head hit the pillows the moment I was down. She clambered over the back of it and crawled into my lap, snuggling into my chest. Wrapping my arms around her I finally answered, “We had dinner the night of parent/teacher's conferences. She was exhausted and hungry so I asked to take her to dinner.”

 

“Do you like her,” she asked, playing with a piece of my white hair.

 

“Just as a friend,” I said more confidently than I felt. “She's a very bright, kind woman and I find her interesting company.”

 

“Oh,” she said disbelieving, “Is that all?”

 

I laughed, “Yes. That is all. Now enough on this subject.”

 

“I think she's the reason you've been so distracted this week,” she said, giving me a knowing look. “I saw how you looked at her sometimes this afternoon when you thought no one was looking.”

 

“Well my clever daughter,” I grumbled, “Your overly active brain is obviously making something out of nothing. She's your teacher - and even if that wasn't an issue we are just friends,” I said, and suddenly in my mind's eye I saw her angelic face redden slightly, a shiver running down her petit back as I pulled her close the first time last Friday. Sure, just friends. Because I flirt with my friends on a regular basis. And sometimes to mix things up a bit, I dance with them for long periods of time. Riiight.

 

“I smelled your scent change when you two were talking about her going to the dance club,” she looked at me dully, knowing that she'd caught me. “You were-“

 

“Alright Rin,” I interrupted quickly, voice growing loud as I stood up with her cradled in my arms, “It's late. Time for bed.”

 

“No it's not,” she grumbled, “You just don't want to admit that I'm right.”

 

“I don't know what you're talking about,” I said, nose in the air as I took quick steps down the hall to her bedroom.

 

“This isn't over,” she growled.

 

“

“

“

 

I stood outside my door in my `night on the town' clothes while I watched Miroku and Sango pull into the parking lot. Turning to lock my door before running door the stairs I giggled in excitement. It's been a while since we've gone out. It's nice finally getting to wear this shirt I bought two weeks ago too.

 

The shirt in question was a black halter top made of draping, silky material that was actually more like a corset top due to the way it was split all the way down the middle of the front, connected just under my breasts by a black, metal loop. It was risqué, I knew it, but I hadn't been able to resist it when I saw it on the manikin in the store. It'd been on sale too and that was the deciding factor in the end - the last straw. It was in my hands before I knew it and I quickly found myself at the register. Plus, although it was a bit risqué, it didn't really show too much, mostly just my stomach and a little bit around my breasts. More than I normally showed, but it was a shirt for rare occasions so I figured it wouldn't kill me. Furthermore, it wasn't like I was going to be around any children in the shirt - obviously. Besides, I sometimes felt the undeniable urge to rebel against the stereotype of the typical `elementary teacher' and wear something extra fun and sexy.

 

Weird, I know.

 

“Hey guys,” I chirped as I climbed into the backseat.

 

“Heya,” Sango grinned, “Nice shirt, when did you get that?”

 

“Last week; thought I'd wear it tonight,” I chuckled. “Alright Miroku, put her in `D'! I can't wait to get there!”

 

“Yes ma'am. I'd hate to keep you girls waiting,” he laughed good-naturedly.

 

“Soo,” Sango drawled, eyes sparkling, “You went to a movie with Rin and Sesshoumaru huh? Tell me Kagome, is it typical teacher protocol to go to movies with your pupil and their parent?”

 

“Not one more word, Sango,” I growled, attempting to burn a hole in her forehead with my glare. “Not a word.”

 

“

“

“

“

 

I sat on the couch after Rin had finally fallen asleep. I was sitting there contemplating exactly what my deal was with Rin's teacher. I hadn't figured it out yet.

 

She fascinated me. She made me lose composure more skillfully than the most intimidating businessmen could even attempt to do. That was the thing, where they failed at attempting to make me lose my head she usually succeeded. On the other hand I seemed to be able return the favor and knock her off-balance just as easily. The number of times I had managed to make her cheeks turn the color of a ripe strawberry testified to that. Then there was my disturbing desire to flirt with her and tease her whenever I saw her. There was also my disconcerting attraction to her. And on top of these unsettling things there was also my mortifying behavior earlier in the afternoon when I thought of her being accosted by men at the club.

 

She's just so sweet and innocent that it inspires the desire to protect her, I sighed. And there's no doubt that I would be most upset if anything happened to her. Whatever our relationship is at this time, she's important to Rin and in turn is important to me. Besides, I enjoy speaking with her whenever we're together, and as much as I am loathe admitting it, I would miss our talks… Although after this afternoon she probably won't miss talking to me, I winced at the memory. Ass.

 

Thinking about our conversation though I immediately felt my previous worry rising to the surface. “Oh this is ridiculous,” I growled, running a hand over my face. “Shite, but she must think me a prude,” I laughed suddenly. “And why wouldn't she after my stunning verbal blunder. Ugh.”

 

I'm talking out loud to myself, great. Good grief, I sighed a sigh of long suffering. I'm most certainly not a prude though… I would love it if she wore clothes like that black dress everyday. I winced as that thought brought up several tantalizing mental images in the span of a few seconds. I curse the day I met that woman, I scowled furiously at the black T.V. screen in front of me.

 

I sat there for a moment longer, trying to clear my thoughts - completely - of the little black-haired, blue-eyed devil that danced through my mind. It looked for a split second like I was going to succeed and then an image of her at the club being approached by a shady man caused me to frown, lip curled up in displeasure. The unpleasant feeling in my gut increased greatly when the man's face changed into Naraku's disgusting face. The memories of last Friday flooded my thoughts and I felt a growl bubble up in my chest.

 

Oh for heaven's sake, I thought furiously, if you're so damned worried about her being an innocent idiot - which you shouldn't be because she's obviously done this a lot and the chances of him being there at the same time are probably very small - then get off of the couch and go to the stupid club. You know where she is so just go!

 

I hesitated for all of a fifth of a second before I was off the couch and striding into my room in search of something to wear. It had been a very long time since I'd gone out on the town willingly. Not that I was sure I was going willingly.

 

“

 

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“

 

I left the dance floor, mind completely numb as I tried not to loose control, tried to hide my feelings from a certain female that was dancing like a seductress. And not with me. It's not like you had the guts to ask her yourself you wuss, I thought angrily as I reached the bar, Is it really a surprise that he pounced on the opportunity to dance with such a gorgeous woman? And is it a surprise that she would maybe want to actually dance with a partner for once?

 

“Coke,” I yelled at the bartender over the loud hip-hop music that was blasting over the speakers as I sagged against the counter. I felt exhausted and we hadn't even been here for more than thirty minutes.

 

“Hey Roky,” Kagome asked, calling me by the nickname she had given me years ago, “You alright?”

 

She leaned against the counter next to me, turning to give me a concerned smile. “Oh yeah, I'm fine,” I lied, plastering a smile on my face and hoped that it reached my eyes.

 

“Bull crap,” she laughed, patting me on the shoulder. “You're about as `ok' as a lobster in boiling water.”

 

“Gee, that's a colorful description,” I muttered. “But I really am ok, Kags.”

 

“Uh-huh. Miroku, do you know what lobsters do when they get put into the boiling pot of water?” she asked, giving me a look and I knew she was going to tell me one of her random trivia facts.

 

“It gets cooked,” I shrugged.

 

“No. It screams and grabs the side of the pot with its pinchers. That by the way is the reason I can't eat lobster. Scared me for life seeing my mom cooking us lobster when I was 10,” she shuddered. “You my friend, looked just like that lobster when you left the dance floor.”

 

“I don't recall screaming. Nor do I have pinchers,” I laughed.

 

“No. But you looked like you trying to run away from something very painful. Boiling alive is painful,” she caught my eyes with hers and the words I feared flowed slowly from her mouth, “So is a heart being crushed.”

 

I laughed, taking a long draw on my coke, “Kags, your imagination is as lively as ever. I promise you that my heart is quite fine. Now, enough talking, how about a dance?” I asked quickly, leaving my barely touched drink and holding out a hand for her to take.

 

She didn't though, shaking her head. “Miroku,” she said gently, eyes serious. “If you trust me then listen to the little bit of advice that I'm going to give you right now.” I swallowed hard but listened. “Go and ask Sango to dance. She won't bite your head off, I can promise you that. In fact, I'm more than confident that you won't be disappointed with the results.”

 

“What makes you think that I want to dance with San-“ I started but she cut me off with a loud guffaw.

 

“Miroku, shut up already. I know you like her. And to put it bluntly, as your friend, you two have been circling each other for way too long. I haven't said anything up front because I thought that was you guys' business, but enough is enough. Besides, it's been terribly unfair - you two teasing me about Mr. Taisho as if I had a chance with him. Plotting and talking about how there is something between us while you two can't even gather up enough guts to admit that you like each other. So, call this friendly payback,” she smirked, crossing her arms over her chest and tapping her foot on the floor.

 

I think I'm going to pass out, I thought numbly.

 

“

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“

“

 

Miroku looked pale. Maybe I was a bit too blunt, I worried. Oh well, he'll thank me later. I shrugged and gently gave him a push toward the dance floor where Sango was dancing with an attractive male who was obviously very interested. “Get your butt out there right now, mister,” I chirped. “I'll be at the bar for a bit, but I'll be watching and if you don't get out there and I don't see you two dancing soon I will charge in there and embarrass you further. I promise you. Just know, Roky, I do this out of love,” I patted him on the back and added, “Now if you'll excuse me, I think a Kahlua cocktail is calling me.”

 

I turned away and headed for the bar, ordering a mixed drink consisting of Kahlua, coconut milk and finely crushed ice. I sat, sipping on it slowly, and watched curiously as Miroku entered the floor. Despite my confident talk I wasn't 100% sure about the outcome of this idea of mine. Yes, they had danced at the party last Friday - shocking as that had been - but that type of dancing was a bit different from the dancing going on at Club Atom. A memory of a well-muscled body close to mine made a blush stain my cheeks and I was forced to admit that the dancing at the ball had been, in it's own way, terribly intimate. Too intimate, I grumped stirring my drink a little too aggressively causing a few drops to fly out and onto the counter.

 

“A little energetic, there now aren't we,” a smooth voice stated from beside my shoulder sounding vaguely familiar.

 

Startled slightly, I turned to see a strangely familiar face. “Excuse me,” I asked politely.

 

“You spilled some of your drink,” he pointed, and then ran a hand through his black hair. I struggled for a moment more to identify his face and then it clicked.

 

Daddy Lecher, I cringed, what luck.

 

“So, do you come here often?” he asked, sliding closer to me along the counter. Eeew, he's like a slimy bug or something, I thought and I had the sudden mental image of a cockroach with his head scuttling along the counter towards me. Ugh, I picked up a mental boot and smashed the disgusting image, wishing it were as easy to get rid of the real man. Of course, no such luck.

 

“Sometimes,” I replied vaguely, taking another sip of my drink.

 

“You like to dance or are you just here for the drinks?” he smiled. I got the feeling that he was trying to look charming, but the true face of Daddy Lecher shone through the mask like a lighthouse beacon shines through fog. All too well.

 

“I like to dance sometimes,” I answered dully, not looking at him but staring at my drink - a clear sign of disinterest. Maybe he'll get the hint, I thought dreamily. That would be nice - a perv that actually understood and listened to subtle hints. That would be… Revolutionary.

 

Sadly, there was no revolution in the World of Lechers and he was like every other perv. Maybe that's what makes them a perv - a man who ignores all hints and proclamations of disinterest but continues to move forward. Hmm… What an interesting thought… I mused as he opened up his annoying trap yet again, “Well then, when you've finished your drink,” he paused, glancing at my drink, “why don't you and I go out there on the floor.”

 

“I like to drink slowly,” I muttered around my straw. “You'll get bored. You should go ask someone else,” I took a painfully small sip to prove my point.

 

He just laughed, “That's fine with me. I'll just join you. Besides, you're the only pretty woman here so I'm willing to wait.”

 

“Did no one ever teach you that ridiculous flattery never gets you that far in life?” I asked, finally looking at him and quirking an eyebrow condescendingly.

 

“Oh,” he chuckled, “But I wasn't being ridiculous.”

 

“Oh,” I stared at him dully, “But you were. Now the answer is `no'.”

 

“Stubborn aren't you,” he smiled wolfishly then leaned in close and whispered, “I like that.”

 

Oh gag! I think I'm going to retch all over this counter. Oh hey, maybe if I do he'll leave me alone. There's a thought. I should just go with the flow and let my stomach go all out, I thought as his breath, heavy with the smell of cigarettes and alcohol, flared on my neck and my ear. Creepy Cockroach Daddy Lecher, I groaned.

 

“You're too sexy mami,” he murmured and began to wrap his arm around my waist, pressing his body against mine. That's it! I thought furiously. You touched me with your creeping dirty hands and oh ga! Who knows where those have been! You are so dead! And just as I was forming my hand into a fist to hit him as hard as I could a familiar voice of silk and steel said from behind us, “As sexy as she is, I believe she said `no', so I suggest you remove your hand from her person.”

 

I froze, my fisted hand lifted off the counter several inches stopping dead in its tracks. I must be losing my mind, I thought in confusion; I'm so grossed out by Lecher Daddy and his creepy wandering hands that I'm imagining voices. Well now that's no good.

 

The thing was though that Cockroach Lecher had tensed too, his hand clutching convulsively on my waist. He turned to address someone behind us. No, he can't be here. That's impossible, I thought. I must just be projecting his voice onto someone else's voice.

 

“Look pal, she's fine,” he smirked, “She just likes to play a little that's all.”

 

“I suppose that's why she's practically bristling and has her hand fisted and on it's way to your face,” the male behind us stated coolly.

 

“Huh,” Lecher said unintelligently, whipping his face around to stare, sure enough, at the mentioned fist. Which was currently suspended in the air several inches above my drink. “Whatever,” he scoffed, “She's just playing like I said. Some girls just like to play a little rougher than others - that's fine by me,” he turned to smile at me, winking and squeezing my waist before inching his hand downwards. With a squeak I brought my hand violently back into action.

 

“Lecher,” I yelped as I swung at his face full force. As my fist met his face I winced. It's been a while, I thought grumpily. Dang it that hurts! A hiss escaped from between my teeth as he howled, recoiling, cradling his face and shouting a colorful range of expletives. “Ouch,” I muttered, shaking my injured hand. I heard a rich, familiar laugh and then I suddenly found my hand cradled gently in a much larger one. I know those hands, I gasped, looking up quickly.

 

“Getting into trouble again, I see,” he smirked, yellow eyes sparkling in amusement.

 

“Apparently,” I answered breathlessly. I felt my cheeks getting warm and I tried to pull my hand away. He didn't budge.

 

“Are you alright,” he purred, his tone sending warmth coursing through my veins as he turned my hand over to inspect it carefully, running his fingers over it gently as he checked for any swelling.

 

No, I thought, my hand is throbbing and you are making me dizzy. I said, “Yes, I'm fine. It doesn't hurt that badly.”

 

“Hn,” was his only reply. Apparently I wasn't fooling the youkai's nose.

 

A loud voice interrupted his inspection of my hand as Daddy Lecher finally straightened, a hand over his left eye, “You bitch, you punched me! Are you insane?!”

 

Before I could open my mouth to retort Sesshoumaru had released my hand and closed the small distance between himself and the injured pervert. Standing tall and daunting in front of him he growled, “Don't make me punch you. I promise you that it would make her punch feel like a mosquito bite. Besides, I think it's time you were getting home.”

 

“Like Hell I am,” was the snarled reply as he glared up at Sesshoumaru. This man needs to be entered into Guinness as the world's biggest idiot and then promptly placed in an asylum, I thought in horror as Sesshoumaru cracked his knuckles. Does he not realize whom he's talking to?

 

By this time a crowd had gathered and had drawn the attention of the bouncers. This was a very fortunate thing for Daddy Lecher's health as they burst through the ring of people and managed to get their hands on him just in time… Before Sesshoumaru did whatever it was he was planning to do. Sesshoumaru shrugged and I blinked owlishly as I saw the muscles move under his dress shirt. Oh my go-

 

With a roughish smirk he turned and strode forward stopping directly in front of me. Capturing my eyes with his however, he took one more step bringing himself extremely close as he took my hand in his again and said mischievously, “I apologize for belittling your right hook.”

 

“Oh,” I laughed quietly, all the breath having abandoned my lungs when he came so close and took my hand. “I think I can forgive you… Someday.”

 

“Good,” he purred and I felt my knees grow weak. Heavens, I feel light-headed.

 

“Just as long as you don't try to tell me that I brought this on myself by wearing these clothes,” I mumbled quietly, trying to reclaim my eyes from liquid gold.

 

He looked at my shirt, breaking eye contact for a split second before returning his eyes to my face. “Ah, well, I have the feeling that even if you were wearing a gunny sack that you'd still have trouble so I'll be the last person to say that it's your choice of clothes at fault. Although, Kagome, I will tell you that as a male, you look unbelievably tempting in that shirt.”

 

I blushed fiercely, unable to stop myself. Did I just hear him right? Did Sesshoumaru just say - for the second time tonight - that I was sexy?

 

“Oh, um… uh,” I mumbled smoothly. Genius, pure Einstein quality genius right here folks! Gather round!

 

“You're welcome,” he smiled, still holding onto my hand. I wondered momentarily if he realized he was still holding it or not but quickly got my answer when he squeezed it gently.

 

I shivered and said quickly, “So what brings you here anyway?” I looked him in the eye, my curiosity bubbling to the surface, “I thought from what you said this afternoon that this wasn't your type of thing?”

 

He chuckled, a low, rich sound deep in his throat. “I told you that I didn't mean for it to come out the way it did,” he smiled.

 

“Fine,” I frowned slightly, “but that still doesn't explain why you're here?”

 

“No, I suppose it doesn't,” he sighed, “Let's just say that it's been a long time and I felt the desire to come out tonight.”

 

I snorted, “Oh, right. And that's the whole story?” He quirked an eyebrow at me, daring me to challenge his vague reply but I chose not to. Right now the important thing was to reclaim my hand and to put some distance in between us before I collapsed onto the floor, a puddle of mindless, drooling goop. I attempted to do just that but he held firm and then worse, pressed forward.

 

“

“

“

 

I can't accurately express the emotions that flew through me when I saw him with his hand on her waist, pressing his undeserving body against hers. The only thing that kept me from losing it was the satisfying sight of her fist flying towards his disgusting face. My temper was still raging though when I addressed him and it took all of my will to keep my voice cool.

 

He ignored me and just as I was about to physically remove him from the vicinity by less than gentle means he got a fist in the face. I couldn't stop the proud smile that pulled at my lips nor the laugh that burst forth. Heavens, she's a little spitfire of a woman. The smile immediately turned to a frown though as I heard her mutterings and I turned around to find her shaking her hand.

 

The protective urge that seemed to emerge most around her bubbled violently to the surface and I took her hand in mine, meaning at first to just see if she was alright. Unfortunately at the contact the memories of long hours dancing and being so close came rushing back with enough force to knock the air from my lungs, and I couldn't bring myself to release her hand. That was until the rat decided to screech more derogatory words in her direction.

 

Grudgingly I released her delicate hand and struggled to keep my temper in check as the object of my earlier ire continued to make an obnoxious racket and ignore reason. He was rescued from a great deal of pain and blood when the bouncers burst through the gawking crowd and physically removed him - in a much more gentle method than the one I had been planning on utilizing. As he was hauled cursing from the club the animalistic side of me felt a twinge of disappointment, but I quickly brushed the feeling away as I returned to Kagome, once again taking her hand in mine. There must be a magnet in there, I thought, feeling disoriented and out of control being so close to her.

 

I talked with her, words spilling from my mouth while the cautious part of my brain was telling me to run, to pull away. The reckless part of me ignored it and before I knew it she was saying quietly, “Just as long as you don't try to tell me that I brought this on myself by wearing these clothes.” And then I glanced down at her shirt and nearly lost my legs. Does she have no idea the effect she would have on any male in that excuse for a shirt? Damn it, she looks beautiful.

 

Quickly returning my eyes to her face before I passed out I said, “Ah, well, I have the feeling that even if you were wearing a gunny sack that you'd still have trouble so I'll be the last person to say that your choice of clothes is at fault. Although, Kagome, I will tell you that as a male, you look unbelievably tempting in that shirt.”

 

She blushed beautifully, eyes wide and mumbled, “Oh, um… uh…”

 

“You're welcome,” I said quietly, holding her eyes with mine. As we continued talking and I answered her probing questions vaguely, I realized with horror that I wanted to ask her to dance. But that would be a disaster. She was after all to blame for my foul mood this week and dancing with her here - in that damned shirt - would just be more than idiotic. It most certainly wouldn't get her out of my thoughts once and for all either, something I desperately needed to do. Don't do it. Don't you dare ask her that question. It's taboo, I growled at the rebellious part of my brain that didn't want to pull away from her.

 

And then she tried to pull her hand away and the wild part of me took over, unhappy with the thought of her leaving and against my will I moved closer and said, voice low, “Would you be willing to dance with me or am I going to get the cold shoulder like the last man who asked you?”

 

You did not just ask that you insufferable, imprudent rat, I seethed, trying to get my free hand to physically peel my other hand off of hers. My plan backfired however as I realized that hand had already become occupied by attaching itself to her hip. And what a lovely hip it is, I thought before I could stop myself. Mentally cursing myself, the situation, and the enticing woman that I stood so close to, I barely managed to throw in an `escape route' before the disobedient part of myself claimed full control over my tongue once more, “At least one dance - that is part of why you came here is it not?” It wasn't much but it was better than nothing. One dance wouldn't kill me even though it would be torturous, but more that one dance… That would kill me.

 

The cursed part of my mind took over once more and smiling down at her I added, “So, what do you say?”

 

“

“

“

 

“Would you be willing to dance with me or am I going to get the cold shoulder like the last man who asked you?” he purred, bringing his other hand to rest on my hip. “At least one dance - that is part of why you came here is it not?” He smiled and added, “So, what do you say?”

 

Oh my go- Say `no', just say `no'! Quick, before it's too late! He's been driving you insane all week, and this isnot going to help Kagome. He'll just be even more of a headache. Say `no'!

 

“I think I could be convinced,” my lips and tongue moved, forming the words and rebelling against the wise, intelligent part of my mind that demanded a very different answer.

 

“Well, then,” he smiled and I felt drunk as the room seemed to tilt and whirl, “I'll ask again: Kagome, will you dance with me?”

 

“Sure,” I murmured, feeling hot and cold all at once. “Why not?”

 

“

“

“

“

 

Miroku suddenly stood next to us as the song neared its end. I looked up at him a bit surprised and noticed distantly that he looked nervous. I stopped dancing with the man whose name I had learned only a little bit ago. Yusuke was obviously not pleased with this turn of events but I hardly cared, my curiosity spiking as Miroku fidgeted uneasily.

 

“Sango,” he finally all but blurted, “Will you dance with me?”

 

“I believe she and I were dancing if you hadn't noticed,” Yusuke stated, voice matter of fact.

 

“Yes, I had noticed,” Miroku muttered, shooting Yusuke a look that obviously said “And I don't give a rat's ass.”

 

Stunned I stood there for a moment, silent as I tried to process this odd change of events. Sure, Miroku had asked me dance last week, but that had been at a ball and had been a big shock at the time anyway. He'd never asked me to dance at a club, though. I'd figured after a while that he never would either, even though secretly, he was of course, the only one that I wanted to be dancing with. Yet here he was, actually asking me to dance with him - while I already had a dance partner.

 

Well he can't be asking me because he feels sorry for me since I'm not out here by myself, I mused before I opened my mouth and answered as casually as possible, “Sure,” I smiled, shrugging casually. Can't let him now how confused and happy I am about this, I thought frantically as Yusuke pulled away with a huff. Fine by me, I laughed, barely sparing him a glance.

 

Miroku smiled shyly then, taking my hand and making my heart skip a beat. What have I gotten myself into? I wondered in disbelief as he pulled me close and then I just didn't care anymore. I lost myself in the moment.

 

I lost track of how long we'd been dancing, or how many songs had finished and begun, until suddenly I noticed two familiar figures threading their way through the crowd, and I couldn't stop the smile that grew on my face. “Well now, would you look at that,” I smirked, “There goes our very own `nothing is going on/I don't stand a chance with a guy like him' with the white-haired devil himself. What do you know? I think she was wrong,” I added dryly.

 

“Just a little bit,” Miroku snorted, shaking his head.

 

“You know we'll have to tease her unmercifully about this,” I smirked gleefully as the two of them disappeared from view, moving farther into the mass of people that filled the floor.

 

“We should give her a break,” he murmured, pulling me close so that he could whisper into my ear. I shivered at the intimate gesture and for the umpteenth time, since we had begun dancing, I wondered if he was acting as more than just a friend. I didn't have the courage to dare to hope… “I think they'll get together on their own just fine judging from their past and present behavior.”

 

“Oh,” I breathed, barely able to think coherently with him in such close proximity. And then I nearly fainted as he pulled me closer and with utmost gentleness placed a kiss on my cheek. As heat shot through my whole body and I tried not to lose my feet, my legs feeling like wet spaghetti, I thought, Oh, I guess I can dare to hope. I turned around to face him, eyes wide, and found myself trapped in warm, violet depths. Oh go-

 

And then before I knew what I was doing I'd placed my hands on his firm chest, stood up on tiptoe and placed a small kiss on his lips like I had longed to do for far too long.

 

Oh shite, what have I done? I thought as I pulled away, my mind racing in a bit of panic when he didn't respond, eyes growing wide. But then his eyes grew hungry and murmuring my name on his lips like a prayer, he wrapped his arms around me and pulled me to him, simultaneously bowing his head to claim my lips in his with a fierce, hungry kiss.

 

I blacked out.

 

“

“

“

 

I have officially gone insane. Where's my straightjacket?

 

I'd held her hand and led her out onto the floor, threading our way through the crowd until we reached a small space that was less packed. And then I did something that was probably one of the stupidest things in my life: I danced with the little sprite - the woman who I still couldn't' decide if she was an angel or a mischievous devil. But whatever she was, I danced with her; only for one song, but one song was more than enough for me to feel like I was going to lose control, as well as any shred of dignity that I still had left. Feeling drunk, my mind reeling as it's alarm system blared, the song finally drew to a close and I thanked the gods that earlier I had managed to get my rebellious mouth to add “one dance” to my request. A pitiful excuse for a victory, I thought sourly and tried not to wince as the scene that had taken place a several minutes ago flashed through my mind's eye. I still couldn't believe my loss of control. I knew I shouldn't ask her to dance; yet I did. Even worse, I'd blatantly flirted with her while asking her the question that I'd been ordering myself not to ask.

 

We pulled apart, perspiring slightly and breathing a little heavily, and one half of my mind mourned the loss of closeness. The other part of me wanted to run away immediately, while I still had some control over my mutinous body.

 

“Well, Sesshoumaru,” she smiled, a little short of breathe, “I must say I'm impressed. To be honest I didn't think you'd be able to handle this type of dancing.”

 

I snorted, running a hand through my hair, “Well, your mistake Kagome. I'm not one to be underestimated.”

 

“I'm beginning to get that feeling,” she laughed. “Your timing earlier was uncanny.”

 

I frowned, “Yes, well you seem to be a magnet for uncouth men. Every time I'm with you someone is either ogling you or feeling you up.”

 

She laughed, “I do seem to have bad luck don't I?” she shook her head. “I honestly have no idea why.”

 

You are too clueless for your own good.

 

I should leave now, I thought as finally noticed that everyone else on the floor was dancing to the next song that had started as soon as the last had ended. If I dance with her again I'll no doubt do something I'll regret later. I need to leave and put as much distance between the bewitching woman and myself as I possibly can. Right, I thought decisively, having made a concrete resolution that would not be overrun, changed, or tampered with in any way. I will just tell her, right now, that I am leaving. And nothing is going to stop me, I thought haughtily, glad that I had finally conquered the wayward part of my mind.

 

“So, how about a cup of coffee,” a voice asked and it took me a moment to realize that it was mine. Horrified I also noticed that at some point my hand had returned to rest comfortably on her waist. You act like you think you belong there, I grumbled furiously, taking a moment to glare at the offending appendage.

 

Eyes widening briefly she said, “I don't think I can leave… I came with my friends so-,” she stopped abruptly looking off to the right. Following her line of sight I saw the two people in question bring their lips together in a kiss as they continued to dance. “Or maybe it's not a problem,” she laughed, eyes sparkling and happy. “Good grief, took them long enough,” she smiled in their direction, eyes like a sapphire in sunlight and I found my free hand grasping hers. “Coffee sounds nice,” she looked up at me, gentle blue ensnaring gold.

 

At least we won't be dancing, I thought begrudgingly as we left the floor. I suppose that's better than nothing. It doesn't fix the problem concerning her though. I looked back at her and was gifted with one of her breath-taking smiles. Then again, I thought slowly, maybe this is a problem I could get accustomed to…

 

 

End Chapter.

 

 

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THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! I really, really appreciate everything that you've all said - it helps sooo much and it really keeps me going so please keep it up ( `-' ) And hopefully I'm not disappointing anyone yet… (fingers crossed) - Hope you all are having a wonderful winter and having fun getting ready for any festivities you might have going on ( `-` )v And I know it's a bit early but just in case I don't get a new chapter up before Christmas, I'd like to wish everyone `Happy Holidays'!!!

 

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Yours truly m( ='-`= )m