InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Demons Within Us ❯ Coming Undone ( Chapter 14 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

It was a dull grey Monday. A day that was difficult to wake up to and even more difficult to get started. Once Kagome had reluctantly showered and had a hasty breakfast, it was a mad panic to find something appropriate to wear. The one outfit she had bought was still in the laundry, leaving either the leather suits she got from Sango, or her work clothes. Looking outside her bedroom window to see the muggy haze, she realized that neither style was going to cut it. But it wasn't like she had any other options.

Sighing, she reached into her closet to pull out her leather ensemble when a black sleeveless top with a shiny blue Celtic cross plastered on the front was thrust in front of her.

“This would be perfect with a pair of Tommy Jeans.”

Kagome looked over at Ayame with a stunned expression. “But I don't have any….”

Ayame winked. “I do.” She grabbed Kagome's arm and hauled her over to her bed. “Come on, we have to make you look good for your adoring fans.”

Kagome laughed. “It's radio. No one will see me.”

Ayame's green eyes sparkled as if they held a secret. “Someone always sees you. You may as well look good for whoever does.”

The blue-eyed girl gave her a wry glance. “You are strange. Have I ever told you that?”

“Everyday since we were fifteen.” Ayame laughed and tossed a black bra and panties at her.

Kagome shook her head, smiling. Casting off her pink pyjamas, she donned her black underwear, vaguely aware of her friend moving busily around the room.

“Put that shirt on and see if these fit.” The redhead tossed a pair of dark jeans on the bed beside the black top.

Kagome lifted the shirt and her eyes widened. “Ayame! I can't wear this!”

The girl turned to look at her confused. “Why not?”

Kagome lifted the black shirt and stretched it, making the shirt semi sheer.

Ayame shook her head in disbelief. “Oh come on, Kags. Just try it on, I swear no one will see your back.”

Kagome eyed the shirt warily. It did look nice, and material did feel cool, but still. Looking up to see Ayame's disappointed glare, she reluctantly put the shirt on.

Standing up, she turned to the mirror, twisting her body to see her back. The shirt was a little sheer, but none of her scars showed through. Though her pale flesh could somewhat be seen, it didn't look like she had any scarring at all.

She smiled in relief and looked over at Ayame, popping her black panty clad hip in a little sexy dance. “I'm keeping this shirt.”

Ayame laughed. “It's yours. I have a green one just like it anyways.”

Kagome reached quickly over to grab the jeans and hefted the form fitting pants over her hips.

Ayame rolled her eyes. “Naturally, they would fit you like a glove. I hate your figure.”

Kagome twisted her nose at her friend. “We're the same size, Aya.”

“Yeah, but your more toned.” Ayame huffed.

“Chasing after fifteen kids does that.” Kagome grinned and deftly brushed her hair. “What time is it?”

“Almost eight.” Ayame stretched her neck trying to see the alarm clock.

“What?!” Kagome tossed her brush to the side and grabbed her bag by her bed. “I have to be there by eight thirty! InuYasha is going to kill me if I'm late!” She rushed quickly from the bedroom to the stairs.

“Well, we can't keep him waiting any longer.” Ayame grinned and followed the girl out of the room.

-+-

Kagome had Ayame drive her to the radio station, since she wasn't sure if there would be parking nearby, and now stood frightfully alone in front of a looming glass tower. She stared wide mouthed up at the building before her. It was huge. How on earth was this a radio station?

Her eyes flicked up the numerous dark blue windows, wondering what all those windows were for. It was hard to believe there was that many offices needed for one radio station. She checked the address one more time just to make sure she was at the right place. She skimmed her gaze over the brass numbers on the brick siding. Yup, she was at the right place.

She shifted her backpack on her shoulder in anxious worry. She knew she was to meet everyone in the lobby but it didn't stop the bitter nerves her stomach was suffering since she woke up that morning. Sighing deeply, she pushed the heavy glass door open and walked in.

She cast her eyes around the lobby quickly, taking in her surroundings. The floor and walls were made of matching black marble and the ceiling was of brass. Various ferns, trees and plants decorated the foyer. Finally, a massive cherry wood desk stood ominously at the far end, sandwiched between two brass door elevators.

Leaning casually against the desk was InuYasha.

Kagome felt her mouth go dry as she took in his form. His long white hair was flowing softly down his shoulders and was held off his face by a pair of light sunglasses. He wore a soft cotton black t-shirt and baggy black cargo pants that hugged his body perfectly. By his feet rested his black biker's helmet. He looked tough and relaxed at the same time, making her insides hum in pleasure. Flicking her gaze back up, she saw his golden eyes size her up and a sly smirk settled on his face before he turned back to talk to the receptionist by the desk, actively ignoring her.

Kagome watched as the girl giggled and blushed at him, while he softly said something with a devilish grin on his face. She inwardly sighed. How many times she was going to keep setting herself up for something that wasn't meant to be? Casting her head away sadly, she looked quickly around once more before she found what she was looking for. Biting the inside of her lip, she sat down quietly on a plush loveseat by the wall as she waited for everyone else to show up. Leaning her elbows on her knees, she rested her head on her hands and stared patiently at the glass doors leading outside.

InuYasha had watched her from the corner of his eye all the while.

He had seen when she first arrived, standing in awe outside the building. He couldn't pull his eyes from her, taking in her beautiful body and cute appraisal of the tower. He liked the new style of clothing she had been wearing. She looked sexy even though she was dressed casual. He had quickly tuned out the receptionist's banter, losing the small trace of interest he had in her.

When Kagome walked in, he had thought she looked so lost and small. He automatically felt compelled to go over to her, but fought it off. Instead he had watched her intently, waiting for her to finally notice him. When she had, he couldn't stop the wild pumping of his blood as she studied his form and a small blush settled on her cheeks. He never felt more attractive in his life. And never had he felt the need to ravish someone so badly.

He had turned quickly from her, hoping she didn't see how obvious he wanted her. Flitting his eyes back to the girl behind the desk, he began to shamelessly flirt, hoping she would distract him from the beauty that stood behind him. But his attention never wavered from the blue-eyed drummer.

Kagome sat so quietly and lonely on that chair, it was hard to not go over to her. Images of nuzzling her neck and kissing behind her ear to make her smile grazed his mind and he moaned heatedly.

“I thought you'd might like that.” A whiny voice purred up at him.

InuYasha shot his attention back to the receptionist who was lazily combing a lock of his hair. What the fuck was she doing? Was this bitch crazy? He stood up abruptly, inadvertently pulling strands of his hair out when she snagged on a knot.

“Ow! Fuck!” He hissed and glowered in disgust at seeing a pink comb stuck in his hair. He tugged hard at it but it wouldn't budge. “Get it the hell off me, now!”

The receptionist's eyes widened at his language and moved from behind the desk to help him. “I told you to hold still. See, I knew your hair needed grooming.”

InuYasha backed away from the girl in revulsion. What the hell was she doing touching his hair anyways? No one touches him period!

A small hand rested on his arm and he stopped moving back to glare hard at the person beside him, only to see Kagome's laughing eyes looking up at him. She shook her head humorously as she slowly moved in front of him, blocking off the receptionist's groping hands. InuYasha couldn't help but breathe in her sweet warm scent as she stood quietly beneath him.

Reaching for the matted lock of hair, Kagome's nimble fingers pulled each strand out painlessly until the comb came free. He watched dumbly as she worked, straining to hold his hands in place to keep from touching her. He felt his eyes almost close in pleasure when she then ran those same fingers through the offended lock, smoothing it out into the softness it deserved.

“There.” She looked up at him with a soft smile on her face. “Perfect.” She handed the comb to the woman behind her. “Please excuse him, Ms…?”

“Yura.” The receptionist gave Kagome a confused glare then passed it over to InuYasha.

“Yura.” Kagome smiled and turned to face the girl. “Sorry about that. His hair is very sensitive.”

“Oh.” Yura grinned, twirling the pulled strands of his hair around her comb distractedly. It made the man shudder in disgust but she did not notice as she eyed him hungrily. “I'll be more careful.”

InuYasha paled and unconsciously stood closer to Kagome, nearly pressing himself against her back. The bitch was crazy.

Kagome gave him a quick glance from the corner of her eye before turning her attention back to the girl. “That's okay. Maybe later. Our friends will be joining us soon and we need to head to our interview.” She looked back up at InuYasha from over her shoulder and smiled slightly. “Besides, we like his hair a bit unruly, it makes him look more wild and sexy. It's good for our image.”

With that she walked away from them both and headed to the same loveseat to wait for her band mates.

InuYasha never bothered to give Yura a second glance as he turned swiftly from her to sit next to Kagome on the seat, hoping the fucked up woman would take the hint and leave him alone. Thankfully she did, pouting slightly as she moved back to the reception desk.

InuYasha settled deeper into the loveseat beside Kagome. It was hard to not look smug over the fact she thought he looked wild and sexy. It was even harder to fight off the growing ache he felt in his groin by the gentle touch she gave his hair. He never felt anything so innocent or erotic, especially at the same time.

Sitting next to her, he could feel her body heat as it brushed against the fine hairs of his arm. Her scent smelled of summer and sunshine. Damn, how could anyone smell so good? This girl was going to be the death of him. He shifted slightly to make his pants more comfortable, only to realize it was a fruitless endeavour.

Growling, he stretched his legs out and crossed both his arms and legs contritely, trying not to look at her. Instead, he stared sourly at a bamboo tree across from him.

“They must be running late.”

InuYasha perked an ear slightly at her soft statement. “They got a few minutes more, or else.” He grumbled.

Kagome grinned as she leaned forward on the chair to look out the door. “I know they wouldn't want to miss this. Sango was so excited when I talked to her last night, so I know she'd be riding Miroku and Kouga to get here on time.”

InuYasha just grunted and glowered harder at the tree. So she talked to his friends regularly? Did they go out often? Some friends they were to never think to invite him. Keh, as if he'd go, but that was beside the point. When the fuck did they have time to go out anyways?

His mind drifted to all the times his band hung out during and after practice. He tensed in realization. No, they never left him out. They had gotten to know each other right in front of him. He just didn't give a bloody fuck at the time. He inhaled deep, trying to fight the bitter twist he felt in his gut. Instead he breathed in the soft relaxing perfume of her natural scent and it enticed his senses to places he rather not go. He fought to keep his body from easing beside her from the comfort she exuded. Why did she have to smell so fucking delicious? Why did sitting next to her feel so damn good?

A soft sigh passed warmly by his face and he flicked an eye in her general direction. She was watching him with a small smile before she gazed down at the ground, her long black hair flowing fluidly with her motions.

“I'm nervous.” She murmured.

He shifted his gaze to regard her fully, though he still looked dour. “What the fuck for?”

She shrugged, still looking to the floor with that small smile on her lips. “No one ever asked me questions about me before. I'm not sure what to say.”

InuYasha studied her for a moment before turning back to the tree. “Keh. You just answer them. And if you don't like what they ask you tell them it's none of their damn business.”

Kagome rolled her eyes playfully at him. “Now that will help.” She giggled as she looked back down to the marble floor. “Besides, with these kind of people, it's mostly what you don't say that they hear.”

Confused, InuYasha looked over at her, but before he could ask what she meant the outside door opened, emitting a small blast of hot humid air.

“I am never driving with you again.” Sango growled as Miroku stumbled in behind her.

“Aw, come on, Baby. I told you I knew a short cut.” He whined.

Sango pierced him with a cold look. “A short cut is a direction which is shorter, not a route for you to go faster. And look, we made it later than we would have if we took the way I said.”

“Yeah.” Kouga chuckled as he entered behind them. “But we would never have had that bitchin' drag race with that old man if we took your way.”

Sango scowled. “Don't encourage him.”

“Hey, Yash, Kags.” Miroku smiled and nodded to both of them.

Sango turned to look at the sitting couple and her temper quickly vanished. InuYasha never sat beside anyone if he could help it. Hell, she'd known him for most of her life and he always made it a point to sit alone. It was incredibly wonderful to see him next to Kagome. Kouga was right. Kagome had a massive effect on her friend, though it was sad that neither would admit it.

InuYasha stood up in annoyance once all three finally noticed them. “It's about time you slack jaws showed up. Thought I'd have to do this shit on my own.”

Miroku grinned like the bird that ate the canary. “You're not alone. Kagome is with you.”

InuYasha flushed slightly and looked away angrily. “It's sad that she's the only one I can rely on.”

Kagome looked up at him from where she sat. Did he just compliment her? Well, it wasn't much of one, but she knew what he really meant. She smiled warmly up at him and stood up when she noticed an older man in a casual suit coming over to them.

“Perdition?” The man bowed slightly.

InuYasha turned and regarded the man before nodding. “Yeah.”

The man smiled. “I'm Lung Jim. I'll bring you up to the studio now. You're going to be on in about fifteen minutes so we need to get you prepared.”

Following the man to the elevators, InuYasha quickly scooped up his helmet he left by the desk. His eyes widened in slight fear as Yura strummed her finger over the teeth of her comb and gave him a sexy grin. Gripping his abused lock of hair protectively, he walked quickly over to Kagome's side and followed them into the elevator, praying the doors would shut faster.

-+-

The set up was simple for their promo. All they needed to do was sit in a room with several mikes and computers that would record their interview with the host. Kagome was surprised to see a few web cameras around as well. Zu, the scrawny man who would be interviewing them, said that they would be recorded for the radio's online show so people all over could access it.

That certainly settled the quake in her chest. Kagome frowned wryly.

A massive sofa was in front of the recording desk and all five of them had to sit restlessly as Zu and his assistant got everything prepared. Zu wanted uniformity in how they sat, so it went boy, girl, boy. And since InuYasha was the leader, he sat closest to the interviewer, meaning he was the first on the couch. Kagome had moved to the other end but was immediately shoved by someone to sit beside him. Kouga had collapsed comfortably next to her, followed by Sango and Miroku. The three looked awfully smug as they chatted idly with each other.

Kagome fidgeted with her fingers as Zu moved around the room setting up mikes for all of them.

“Stop it.” InuYasha grumbled beside her.

She looked up at him, somewhat relieved and nervous that he was sitting so close to her. She clenched her fingers and smiled sheepishly up at him. “Sorry. Nervous.” She whispered.

InuYasha looked down into her wide expressive eyes and inwardly groaned as his gaze trailed down to her soft lips. He gruffly shot his head away from her and shrugged. “You're just back up. They won't be asking much of you anyways.”

He felt his chest squeeze hard when he saw the deflated look on her face as she cast her eyes down. Cringing slightly, he turned away from her. He never gave a rat's ass about anyone's feelings before. Hell, only a few weeks ago he would have rejoiced seeing the dejected look on her face. But now it seemed his heartlessness struck a chord and he hated it. Growling slightly he turned to explain what he meant before her soft voice stopped him.

“You're right. That's the bane of being a drummer.” Her eyes looked up at him jokingly, without a trace of hurt. “At least I'm not the center of attention, so not much will be expected of me.” She seemed to relax as she leaned back on the couch, her blue eyes dancing in mock indifference. “Man, I don't envy you.”

InuYasha smirked slightly and settled back beside her, both watching Zu distractedly. He hadn't intentionally meant to say what he did, nor did he mean for it to come out the way it did. But Kagome knew what he meant, and he appreciated her for it.

He was amazed he was even going to actively talk to her. It would certainly be the first time he bothered to have a conversation with her. He sighed gruffly and crossed his arms. “He'll probably ask why you wanted to join Perdition, how it felt when you got chosen, and maybe something stupid like what's your favourite song or music group.”

“Oh.” Kagome tilted her head in thought, unknowingly moving it closer to him.

Instinctively, InuYasha shifted his nose towards her, breathing in her soft scent before he caught himself. He inched closer to the arm of the couch and away from her.

Kagome didn't seem to notice as she looked up at him and smiled. “Thanks, InuYasha.”

He feigned interest in what Zu was doing. “For what?”

“For making me feel better.”

InuYasha turned just in time to see her close her eyes as she relaxed beside him. He grunted indifferently, though he eased closer to her.

“Okay. We're ready here.” Zu grinned and sat down at the desk facing them. “When the red light flashes, we'll begin.”

Perdition sat up and settled into “interview” mode just as the red light of the studio flashed.

Zu smiled over at InuYasha as he spoke into his mike. “Good morning, Kyoto. Zu Sin here with the much talked about Perdition, our own local metal band that had swept the votes at the first War of the Bands competition last Friday in our beautiful city. Here with me we have….” He pointed to InuYasha.

The silver haired singer held back a snide retort as he leaned into the mike. His voice was husky and sexy as he spoke, knowing full well how to reach his fan base. “InuYasha.”

Zu then pointed to Kagome and all the way down the line, each member quickly spouting off their given names. Turning back to InuYasha, he nodded his head slightly to gain the singer's attention before he read the interview notes off his laptop.

“Yasha, as his hardcore fans know him as, is the lead singer for Perdition.” Zu looked distracted as he tapped on the laptop beside him. “Tell me, Yasha. How does it feel being accepted into the WoB?

`WoB?' InuYasha thought and inwardly rolled his eyes before answering. “Feels like nothing else, Zu. We worked hard to get where we are, and it will be that hard work that will make us win.”

“Well, I guess that answers my next question.” Zu flicked his eyes up at the band before going back to what he was reading. “You believe Perdition will go all the way?”

“No.” InuYasha growled into the mike. “I know we will. Believing gets us nowhere.”

Kagome lifted her face to see a hard glare simmer in InuYasha's eyes as he watched the interviewer intently. She knew he hated believers, but did it go so far that he was offended when someone even used the word believe? She wondered how it was possible for someone to hold so much pain. She wished so much she could wipe it all away. Her attention was quickly brought back to the interview as Zu bombarded InuYasha with more questions, which he easily answered, though his patience was wearing thin.

She bit shyly at her lower lip as she watched Zu pass questions to each of her band mates, ranging from previous amateur concerts they had performed to more personal ones such as relationships. She could see InuYasha was getting annoyed, meaning he was getting bored. She hoped the interview ended soon so he wouldn't have to deal with this for much longer.

“Kagome.” Her eyes shot up to meet Zu's. “You're the newest member of Perdition. I heard you joined only a few months ago. What made you want to join Perdition?”

Kagome grinned despite herself, knowing InuYasha had called the questions she would be asked. “When I saw that Perdition was looking for a drummer, I had to try out. I've been listening to their music ever since they started and I knew they'd be going far. No one ever reached me as much as they did. I would have to say I was their biggest fan before anyone really knew them.”

InuYasha looked at her stunned, as did as the rest of the band. She had listened to them when they were nobodies? She was their biggest fan, huh? He felt his chest swell slightly in pride.

“Oh?” Zu looked up with interest for the first time. “What do you mean they reached you?”

Kagome blushed slightly as she pondered his question. “It's rare to relate to music. For the longest time, music was just a means for money, sex and fame. But once in a blue moon, someone sings something that has meaning and it touches those who listen. Perdition has that gift. They sing about things that we all question and feel. Their songs are not about making it big, it's about making it at all. And I think that's what makes this band so popular. People can relate to what they play. I was one of those people, and now I am happy to say I am apart of this wonderful band.”

Zu looked her over fully, his eyes lingering up and down her glowing form. InuYasha grit his teeth together to keep him from socking the dumb shit in his face.

“What song was it that pulled you the most towards Perdition?” Zu smiled attentively at the young woman.

Kagome smiled back. “I thought I knew. But every day InuYasha amazes me. As long as he keeps singing, there will never be one song that pulls me, since they all make me love this band more and more. I just look forward to a new day to see where he'll bring us.”

Zu tilted his head to the side. “Where do you think that will be?”

“The final competition, of course. No one sings better than InuYasha.” She beamed.

InuYasha watched her intently, his mouth open slightly in awe at her answers. He had never heard anyone talk about Perdition like that. Hell, no one had ever complimented him like that before, or at all. But Kagome, all she did was make him feel good, even when he knew he didn't deserve it. His body tingled in a sensation he had never felt before, but it felt wonderful.

Zu looked up at him and a knowing look filtered across his face. He turned back to Kagome. “So Kagome. Are you and InuYasha dating?”

Kagome and InuYasha looked stunned for a moment before their faces grew hot and both looked away from each other.

“Um, no.” Kagome smiled prettily. “InuYasha and I are just friends and nothing more.”

InuYasha remained silent, glaring at the far wall trying desperately to fight the bitter burn of disappointment. He didn't know why he felt dejected when Kagome said no and that they were just friends. It was true, they weren't dating, and until now he didn't think they were even friends. Hell, he didn't even want anything to do with her in the relationship sense. But for some reason, the thought of not having it as an option disturbed him. Friends? He supposed. And that's all they would be. He felt his chest go numb, unaware as Zu prattled on.

“Well that's a shame. I know your avid fans would love to see you both together.” Zu turned back to his computer once more. “We're going to listen to Alive, the song that won the first competition. When we come back, Perdition will give us a taste of what's to come.”

Zu tapped a few keys before flicking off the flashing light. “Okay guys, your manager set up your equipment here earlier so you can head into the sound studio to get prepared.”

Kagome looked concerned when InuYasha growled lowly and stood.

“What did you say?”

Zu looked up at InuYasha in confusion. “Mr Taisho stated that in order to promote Perdition you must perform live so word will get out about your band.” Zu smiled over at Kagome. “We don't normally allow bands to play unless they have a record label or are well known, but Mr. Taisho was very persuasive. And he was right. It is a fantastic opportunity to have more hear you and know you.”

Kagome smiled back and nodded. “Well, thank you for allowing us to do this.”

“Keh.” InuYasha rolled his eyes. “Whatever.” He walked quickly from the room to the sound studio connected to it, ignoring the stunned look on Zu's face.

Kagome smiled sheepishly in apology to Zu before following her friends into the next room.

“Damn Sesshomaru. I told him no flavours. Who the fuck does he think he is saying we'll perform without my permission?” InuYasha eyed his band angrily before shaking his head in disgust. “Well, we're stuck now. Come on, let's get this shit over with so we can get the hell out of here.”

Kagome sighed quietly at his behaviour before she looked quickly around the sound booth. She was amazed to see all their instruments there. Sesshomaru went to a lot of trouble to get it all set up. She gazed over at Sango, wondering how he got the equipment from the warehouse where she lived.

Sango just shrugged exasperatedly as she moved behind her keyboard and turned it on. “I thought you knew. He came by last night and got them, saying we should be grateful to him that he set this up. I just hope he's planning on bringing this shit back to the `Hut' because I'm not going to. But it is rather cool he set this up considering. He does tend to always get his way.”

“Story of my life.” InuYasha muttered as he adjusted the mike in front of him.

Kagome smiled and shook her head in acceptance before she moved behind the drums, finding a set of sticks by the base. Sesshomaru had definitely prepared for this.

“What are we playing?” Kouga asked as he pulled his long hair from the guitar strap on his shoulder.

“Fuck if I care.” InuYasha growled, not bothering to look back at them.

Miroku looked over at InuYasha in silent understanding. Normally this wouldn't be an issue and the singer would have lapped up the attention of performing live to a new audience. There was something else bothering his friend that made him doubly put up his front. Sighing, Miroku cast his gaze to each band mate in turn before he pasted on a grin. “How about Undone? That'll wake up whoever's listening.”

“Sure, whatever.” InuYasha grunted and waited for Zu to come by.

“Alright.” The older man grinned as he walked in as if on cue. “Ready in thirty. I'll signal you when to start.”

InuYasha just stared coldly at the man without giving a response.

Zu's grin fell. He coughed uncomfortably and moved back into the next room, visible through a pane of glass. He shut the door to the sound studio and moved to sit at his desk to introduce the band to the radio audience.

InuYasha turned to gaze at his mates behind his shoulder. “Let's hope the fucker did a sound check beforehand, otherwise this will suck monkey balls.”

Kagome fought off a laugh at his lewd description. She cast her eyes up to meet his and smiled. “Well, look on the bright side. If we do bad, we never have to be interviewed by him again.”

InuYasha just smirked and looked back to the pane of glass, waiting for the man's signal.

Kagome felt her heart beat faster at that look. It was the closest thing to a smile that InuYasha gave that was somewhat sincere. Anything else was a cause for worry.

She saw when InuYasha was given the sign from the recording booth, and she waited for him to give them the signal. With a flick of InuYasha's finger, Miroku pounded the steady chords that would set the entire song.

Looking at his guitarist from the corner of his eye, InuYasha cast his voice out into the radio world, signalling the rest of his band to follow with him behind his words.

Keep holding on
When my brain's tickin' like a bomb
Guess the black thoughts have come again to get me
Sweet bitter words
Unlike nothing I have heard
Sing along mocking bird
You don't affect me

Miroku strummed quickly and Sango continued a simulated rhythmic beat beside Kagome's. InuYasha lifted his voice to the mike, flicking his eyes periodically up at Zu in indifference. A few people had wondered into the radio room to watch them perform.

That's right
Deliverance of my heart
Please strike
Be deliberate

InuYasha thrust his lips closer to the mike as he shouted to his faceless listeners.

Wait
I'm coming undone
Irate
I'm coming undone
Too late
I'm coming undone
One looks so strong
So delicate
Wait
I'm starting to suffocate
And soon I anticipate
I'm coming undone
One looks so strong
So delicate

Stepping back he pumped his head to Kagome's beats, timing her hits to his verse.

Choke, choke again
I thought my demons were my friends
Getting me in the end
They're out to get me
Since I was young
I've tasted sorrow on my tongue
And this sweet sugar gun
Does not protect me

His eyes cast out beyond the window before him, seeing Zu and several others bobbing in time to their music. He watched as two young interns smiled at him with interest and he had to keep from rolling his eyes at their giggling.

That's right
Trigger between my eyes
Please strike
Make it quick now

He stepped back and flipped his long bangs from his eyes, turning burning cold eyes back to his audience before him. He may have hated the imposition of performing for them, especially this early in the morning, but he'd be damned if he didn't give them a good show. He thrust his hips hard and fluidic with each word he yelled, making the two girls eye him eagerly. If he knew one thing, it was working up a crowd of females.

Kagome's beats were barely heard over the rest of the band, but it was the one thing he centred on as they played. His eyes looked distant as he flicked his gaze around the outside room. The interns swayed to the music and for some reason it repulsed him. It wasn't the fact they were unattractive, on the contrary they were very sexy in their small skirts and tight shirts. But for some reason looking at them gave him no pleasure like it used to. Normally he'd be goading them on, getting a sexual charge out of enticing them, making them think he'd fuck them if they crossed boundaries they'd never cross in order to entice him back. Yet there he stood, watching as two vixens eyed him hungrily and all he wanted was to finish the damn song and get the hell out of there. What the fuck was wrong with him?

I'm trying to hold it together
Head is lighter than a feather
Looks like I'm not getting better
Not getting better

His eyes flicked back to Kagome unconsciously and a static charge hit his chest hard that it almost made him lose his breath.

InuYasha never realized he was watching her for the rest of the song until her last beat cast the room in silence. He blinked back into awareness as she looked up at her band mates and smiled. He tossed his golden gaze back out the window to see those same two girls wave seductively and smile lustily at him. Ignoring them easily, he turned his face back to his band, only to catch hold of Kagome's heavenly blue eyes. She looked up at him with such pride and happiness he felt a lump lodge hard in his throat. He shook his head slightly and turned away from her with a heavy frown on his face. It was impossible. There was no way it could have happened. It never happened to him before.

How the fuck did it happen?

When did he fall for her?

-+-

Kagome crossed her arms in annoyance as she waited outside the radio station. Ayame was to pick her up thirty minutes ago but the spontaneous redhead was nowhere to be found.

Checking her watch once more, Kagome picked up her cell and dialled the girl's number for the seventh time. A busy signal again beeped across her ear. Growling low in frustration, Kagome shoved the phone back in her bag before leaning heavily against the brick and glass building. What was she to do? Kouga, Sango and Miroku left as soon as the interview was over and InuYasha had disappeared soon after. She couldn't very well take a bus since she didn't know the area very well to get home, and she was worried about her safety. She had contemplated calling Kaede, but she could not ask the elder lady to give up her duties to come get her. She also thought about calling a cab, but the distance was a bit far and she hated the idea of paying so much for a ride when one was supposed to be driving her home at this very moment.

Kagome kicked her foot back against the wall in an attempt to relieve her temper, but it just resulted in a very poor chip of a brick. Sighing heavily, she lifted her phone from her bag about ready to call a cab.

A loud rumble vibrated from up the street and Kagome looked up in slight surprise as InuYasha drove in her direction on his red Harley.

The silver haired man was equally surprised to see his drummer still standing by the radio station. Didn't she go home?

He stopped his cruiser by the sidewalk in front of her. He tipped his sunglasses down and regarded her strangely. “Why are you here?”

Kagome tilted her head slightly as she examined his bike appreciatively before looking into his eyes. “Aya was supposed to pick me up, but she's late and I can't seem to reach her. It's kind of funny, she's normally very punctual.” She flicked her gaze up the street from which he came and back to him. “Why are you still here?”

InuYasha cast his eyes to the road ahead of him with deep scowl on his face. “I stuck around to make sure my brother didn't forget to bring our shit back to the warehouse. It took forever to get a hold of him. Then I had to go up a few blocks to get my damn bike.”

Kagome nodded slightly and looked up and down the road distractedly. “At least you can go home now. I've been waiting for over thirty minutes.” She huffed and crossed her arms. “I overheard Ko talking to Ayame on his cell, telling her we just finished. So I know she didn't lose track of time. I just hope she's alright, so I can ball her out later.”

InuYasha gave her a quick glance, deciding to rat his friend out. “I saw Kouga leave with Ayame about fifteen minutes ago up the road. If she was driving the fucker home, you're looking at another half hour wait.”

Kagome's mouth dropped and she threw up her hands in frustration. “How could she just leave me here?”

“Keh, love has a way of fucking with the head.” InuYasha smirked. “I'd say cut your losses and get another ride home.”

Kagome felt her shoulders slump in defeat. “Aw, man. Doesn't Ayame know how much a cab will cost me?” She lifted her cell phone dejectedly and searched the line for available cab companies.

InuYasha watched her silently before he let out an irritated groan. “Hang up.”

“What?” She eyed him in confusion.

“Hang up. I'll drive you home.” He bit out ill temperedly.

Her mouth opened in slight shock and she inadvertently clicked her phone shut. “Ride home… on that?”

InuYasha frowned at her. “What's wrong with it?”

Kagome's mouth turned into a wide grin. “Oh heck, nothing. Just I've never been on a bike before and, well…. Wow. I can't believe I get to ride her!”

InuYasha eyed her coolly though he could feel his body purr in pleasure over her excitement. “Well, I owe you a ride. One good turn deserves another, right?”

Kagome shook her head, but her smile still lit up her face. “You never have to owe me anything, InuYasha. You know that.”

Yeah, he did. “Well, don't just stand there. Hop on.” He nodded his head to the seat behind his own.

Kagome beamed as she adjusted her backpack over her shoulders and deftly climbed on the seat behind him.

The additional weight unsettled him for a moment. He never let anyone else ride on Tetsusaiga before but for some reason he didn't gave it a second thought to allow Kagome on.

“Hold on to me.” He eyed her from over his shoulder.

He clenched his jaw tight when he felt soft arms wrap around his waist and her warm body pressed closer to his. He could feel goose bumps rise up his flesh though the air was hot and muggy. How could one touch set him off like this?

Kagome closed her eyes the moment her arms folded around him. His back smelled spicy sweet from the sweat of his performance and the tepid air outside. It was heavenly. She wanted nothing more than to bury her face between his shoulders, knowing she would remember this feeling for as long as she lived. Her heart thundered hard in her chest and against his back as he revved the engine and pulled onto the street.

She would never recall the time it took to get home, or how fast he sped to get her there, but she would forever remember his smell, and the moment she realized she never wanted to let him go.

A/N: Coming Undone, sung by Korn. Man, I love their new style. Hope you like this chapter and I'm writing the next one now. We're nearing the top of the roller coaster now, be prepared for a very steep fall.

Thank you to all those you have reviewed and emailed me with encouragement, suggestions and some kick ass bands. I don't know if I'll be able to place any songs from these bands into the story, but my MP3 collection is swamped, I loved them all. Well, got to get back to the next chapter. Peace all, and joy in all you do! WDW