InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Impossible Mission ❯ The Mischievous Little Boy ( Chapter 13 )

The Mischievous Little Boy

On the way to the mall—

 

Miroku and Sango were walking side by side making their way to the mall. Miroku kept taking quick glances at Sango and Sango sensed that. She was beginning to get annoyed. “I can't believe this; why did I even decide to do this anyway?” Sango wondered. She glanced at Miroku who was grinning in front of him. Sango frowned and wondered why he was smirking like that, and then his eyes met hers. Sango quickly turned her head the other way hiding a slight blush that had suddenly erupted. “This is stupid. Why am I being shy all of a sudden?”

 

Miroku smiled widely again and began to start a conversation. “So, what are you dressing up for Halloween?” Sango snorted and replied. “You're just going to have to find out later.” Miroku rolled his eyes. “Gees, not much of a talker are you?” He commented. “That's not it; I just don't waste my time talking with perverts like you.” Miroku then gave a cocky grin. “Then why did you even bother agreeing to accompany me, if you were going to be like that?” He asked. “If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're starting to have a liking to me.” Sango flushed again facing in front of her and coughed. “W-well, you don't know any better. How can you even think something like that?” She stuttered. “Heh. I'm Miroku.” He responded patting her shoulder. Sango's face heated up. She turned her face toward him ready to say something nice for once until something or someone interrupted her.

 

“Miroku-kun!” A very familiar female voice called out. Miroku gulped. “Y-Yukino-san.” Yukino is girl who has fallen in love with Miroku the first time they met. She is in grade 9 and looks very young look. She usually has two pony tails falling down on each side of her ears and they were always tied up with frilly coloured ribbons. Today it was the colour red which was matching her red top and black short skirt. Her breasts were a little smaller than Sango's, but she had a nice hour glass shaped body. Yukino was not someone afraid to speak her mind and she never leaves Miroku alone. She's always chasing after him. This was a surprise to him, because usually he would love the attention coming off from an attractive girl, but there was just too much of her. He was mostly used to women running away from him; so he wasn't prepared for this kind of load. Miroku tries all in vain to escape from her.

 

Yukino ran up to him and clung on to his right arm. “How are you Miroku-kun?” She giggled. “I was fine before you showed up.” He thought chuckling awkwardly. “Um, okay I guess.” As he scratched his cheek. Sango frowned, turned around and continued down the street. “I'll leave you two alone; I have better things to do.” Yukino and Miroku watched Sango walk away. Yukino was even happier and held on tighter to Miroku. “Wait, Sango! Don't leave me!” He pleaded, trying to break free. “No, no, it's alright, take your time. I'll just tell the others you got sidetracked.” She replied not bothering to even stop.

 

Yukino giggled some more rubbing her cheek into his chest. “So where were you headed?” She asked. Miroku looked down at her and cringed. “I was going shopping before you showed up.” Yukino gasped. “Oh! Can I come with you, please?” She repeated. “No. Not today, now please let me go. I have to go.” He replied finally escaping her strong grip. He turned to her and smiled kindly even though he knew he shouldn't have. “See you around okay?” Yukino pouted, putting her hands on her hips. “You always leave like that. I start thinking you don't like me.” Miroku winced. “It's not that. It just looks like you catch me when I'm busy; why don't you call me sometime.” Then he ran down the street, before she could even answer.

 

Yukino crossed her arms and watched him escape down the road, leaving her on the street alone. “That Miroku; saying that, he didn't even give me his phone number.” She sighed and walked away.

 

………………………&# 8230;…………

 

It wasn't long when everyone met up at the mall in front of entrance 3. “Sango-chan!” Kagome waved, running over to her and Miroku. “We were running late and we still managed to beat you to it.” Kagome giggled. Sango looked over at Inu-yasha and his motorcycle. “Oh! I see you took another joy ride with Inu-yasha eh?” Sango smiled. Kagome blushed. “Uh, yeah,” Sango giggled at her friend and walked over to Inu-yasha. “Hey Inu-yasha, this is so not like you, coming shopping I mean. What made you come?”

 

“Well its Halloween ain't it? I just decided to look around for costumes and thought we could look around together. Is there a problem with that?” He snorted. “No, no, just wanted to know.” She replied then walked back to Miroku. Inu-yasha watched as everyone began to enter the mall. Kagome noticed someone missing and looked back. “Come on Inu-yasha.” She smiled. Inu-yasha felt his cheeks warming up. Just by her smile she was able to make him blush? Fine she always smiles but this smile was different from the others and he didn't know why.

 

Kagome raised her eyebrow and stopped making her friends pass her. She ran back over to him and asked, “What's wrong, we're not going to treat you like a dog and leave you standing out here. Come on.” She chuckled and tugged him by his hand in doors. Inu-yasha looked down at her soft hand and smiled. He closed his hand around hers and she felt a zap through her body. “He's holding my hand.” She blushed. They entered the building still holding hands. Kagome stopped and faced him. “Inu-yasha?”

 

Once Kagome's eyes reached his, Inu-yasha's mind crossed. “Don't fall in love with Kagome.” His mind warned him. Suddenly he remembered what happened this morning with Kikyo and quickly let go with a cough. Kagome pulled her hand to her chest and rubbed it. “What's going on?” She wondered. “Kagome-chan, did something happen between you and Inu-yasha outside?” Sango whispered. Kagome blinked and looked away to Sango. “No.” The two of them walked away from him and made a low argument about what happened outside.

 

Miroku peered over at Inu-yasha making him get annoyed. “What?” Miroku smirked. “Did you two just make up?” Inu-yasha snorted. “Yeah, right. Why would I do a thing like that with her?” Miroku shrugged. “Well she's cute right?” Inu-yasha grunted and glanced at Kagome and she glanced at the same time. They both blushed and turned away quickly. “She's definitely not cute.” Inu-yasha stated. (Woah! Ranma and Akane moment)

 

Everything went quiet and Inu-yasha frowned with annoyance. “Well aren't we going costume shopping?” He asked. “Yes.” Sango nodded. “Then let's go.” Kagome finished with the same ticked off tone and stomped away. “O-okay,” they responded shakily. “Now, why is she so pissed?” Inu-yasha wondered as they followed after her. “You got me. Maybe it's something you did.” Miroku shrugged. “Something I did?” Inu-yasha started. “What on earth did I do?” He growled. “I don't know but it's best not to talk to her when she's like that.” Sango hushed.

 

Kagome had her fists clenched. “Stupid Inu-yasha, he's such a jerk. If he has a problem with me, why does he even bother sticking by me all the time?” She thought. “Oh well, whatever let's put those thoughts aside and pay attention to more important things.” She stopped when she found the costume store. “Here it is! Let's go in you guys.” She suggested. Inu-yasha raised an eyebrow. “Well she sure turns her tune pretty quick.” Miroku commented. “That's Kagome for you.” Sango nodded.

 

Everyone separated to search for materials or ideas for their costume.

 

Sango wandered around the store looking for the right design. “Hm…since I'm dressing up as a vampire slayer, I should try the vampire section.” She passed through an aisle then went down another and paused. “Oh well, I guess I found it. That was pretty quick.”

 

“This store is huge.” Miroku commented. He stopped when he saw Sango down the same aisle and decided to sneak up on her. “Hey San— wah!” Sango had quickly turned and poked Miroku's chest with a stake. “I sensed you weren't too far away. Try to grope me again weren't you? I've done some of Kenpo, just so you know.” Sango playfully circled around his chest where his heart should be. Miroku cringed. “I see, probably that's why you're so busty.” He mumbled. “What?” She responded not completely catching that. “Uh, nothing really. If I say that she really will slay me.” He defended. “Probably something perverted.” She smirked and with drew. “Pretty impressive anyway huh?”

 

Miroku chuckled awkwardly while scratching his head. “Yeah I guess, never expected a thing.” He replied. “It's true though, practicing martial arts I should have sensed that myself.” Sango held the stake in her hands. “I'm dressing up as a vampire slayer or in your case a pervert slayer.” Miroku ignored that and grinned. “Oh like Buffy?” Sango nodded. “Yeah, that's one of my favourite shows; it's really awesome.” She continued to look for more stuff and Miroku watched her. She was really cute and quite different from the other girls. “What are you staring at, you pervert?!” Sango snapped. Miroku turned away scratching the back of his head again. “She's definitely not like the other girls, I've met.” He thought.

 

In the next aisle…

 

“I have no clue what I'm going to dress up as.” She spoke aloud. “No witches, monsters, fairies there's simply nothing that's catching my eye.” She walked over to the next aisle but hid back when she saw Inu-yasha looking at costumes. “Hmpf.” She heard him grunt. Kagome took a deep breath and passed the ally quickly and went to the next one. She let out her breathe and sighed. “This is stupid why am I hiding for, I haven't done anything?” She thought. (Inu-yasha smirked when he sensed her pass by. She wasn't very good at hiding especially once her scent blew right down to him. He chuckled lightly.)

 

“Damn…” She heard someone curse. “Huh?”

 

“Arrg…damn if I were a little taller I could reach it.” The little boy tapped his head. “Of course, I can transform into something taller.” He reached into his pocket searching for the object. He stopped when he sensed someone above him. “Here you go, you wanted this right?” Kagome smiled. The boy nodded and took the object. “Thank you, lady.” The boy smiled in return but it soon turned into a cringe. “Oh no, I can't hold it much longer.” The boy hid his face and turned away. “Thanks again, bye.” Then he broke off into a run. “Please don't turn around, please don't turn around.” He begged, hoping that Kagome didn't.

 

Kagome turned around and watched him run in high speed. “What a strange little boy.” Kagome suddenly saw a pile of boxes moving around by the wind he created and realised it was going to fall on the poor boy. “Oh no, watch out!” Kagome cautioned, running to him and pulling him out of the way in the nick of time. The boxes she predicted fell over just missing them. Kagome sighed and looked down at the boy in her arms. “Are you okay?” But a puff of smoke surrounded her and the boy. When the smoke cleared away Kagome felt the body's shape was smaller. She was able to hold him in her arms completely and he now had orange hair and large fluffy tail.

 

The boy tried to crawl out of her grasp. “Oh my, what did I just do?” Kagome gasped. “This is bad, real bad, now she knows and she was such a kind lady too.” The boy thought. Suddenly Kagome noticed Inu-yasha ran down the aisle toward her. Kagome looked back down at the boy and quickly hid him behind her. “Kagome, are you alright?” He asked realising a pillar of boxes surrounding her. “Yeah of course I am; I just had a little clumsy moment that's all.” She giggled nervously. “Of course he had to show up.”

 

The boy pressed himself on her back hoping the other person didn't notice him. “Why is this lady going through so much trouble to hide me?” He wondered. “Why are you still sitting on the floor?” Inu-yasha asked. “Oh yeah, silly me.” Kagome slowly stood up keeping her hands behind her back. “Better, see I'm fine, no bruises.” Inu-yasha narrowed his eyebrows when he noticed that she was hiding something. “What are you hiding?” Kagome frowned. “Why do you want to know, it's not any of your business.” Inu-yasha looked at her with more suspicion. Kagome sighed. “Gees, you're nosey. It's just my Halloween costume; I don't want anyone to see what I'm wearing until the night.” Kagome lied. “Hmpf, fine.” Inu-yasha's nose detected something and he snorted. “What? That scent it can't be. Sorry Kagome I'll catch you later. Don't leave the store by yourself.” And with that he ran off leaving her. “Well duh, Sango and Miroku are still here. Why is always so hostile?”

 

She pulled the kid out and held him in her palms. “Did I do something wrong? Or is this your true form?” She wondered staring into his green eyes. “This is my true form.” He nodded sadly. “What or who are you?” She asked. “My name's Shippo, I'm a kitsune or other words fox demon. I use fox magic to help disguise my identity.” Shippo explained. “You can scream at me now.” He bowed waiting for it but instead heard a loud squeak. “Oh! You're so adorable!” She commented rubbing his cheek with hers. “Huh?” He pushed her face away and asked. “Wait, you still like me?” Kagome nodded sweetly. “I've only heard about them in texts books and novels and they sound all ugly and mean but you're so adorable, I can hardly believe it anymore.”

 

Shippo looked up at the happy girl and smiled. “What's your name?” She opened her eyes and answered. “My name is Kagome.” Shippo nodded and pulled himself into a hug. “You're the first person to have said that to me. Can I stay with you?” He asked politely. “Huh? Stay with me?” She blinked. “Just for today.” Kagome's expression changed into a calmer one. “You mean you're alone?” He shook his automatically. “No I take care of myself, I go to school and have friends but I'd like to hang with someone who adores me for who I am today.” He pouted. Kagome didn't know how to answer. “Oh, I have friends with me right now. I did a lot to hide you from Inu-yasha.” Shippo frowned. “Inu-yasha? You mean that nosey guy that came before?” Kagome nodded. “Yeah, so I don't know what to do.”

 

Shippo sighed. “It's alright,” as he leaped out of her hands. “I'll be off now, thanks for helping me.” He was about to leave when Kagome called for him. “Wait, Shippo, how are you going to leave suddenly looking like that?” She wondered. Shippo turned to face her and smiled. “The same way I came in of course.” He fished out a small green leaf and placed it on his head. “Transform!” He commanded.

 

Another puff of smoke surrounded him and out came the same boy Kagome first laid eyes on. “See, easy; bye Kagome.” Shippo smiled and disappeared. Kagome stood there and slowly began to smile. “What a funny little boy. I hope all goes well for you.” She prayed. “Now then, let's continue searching.” She suggested to herself.

 

Inu-yasha walked around the whole store looking for that scent he caught earlier. He passed Miroku and then Sango, but no one that caused the scent. “I swore I just picked up the scent of a demon. The only demons I know are me, Sesshormaru and Kouga but it's not their scent.” He pondered for a moment then shrugged it off. (Lol it was Shippo he was detecting, silly Inu-yasha)

 

Later everyone got their things and headed out the store, especially Sango with many bags. “Gees, Sango aren't you prepared for the occasion.” Miroku commented. “I guess.” She looked over at her other friends mainly Kagome. “So Kagome-chan, I see you did buy something; not very much though.” Sango pointed out. “Yeah, I sure did but the rest of my costume is at home.” Kagome replied. “That's right; you're making your own dress. What are you dressing up as anyway?” She asked. “You'll just have to discover it at the dance.” Kagome smirked. “Oh, pretty secretive aren't you?” Sango snickered. “I wonder if you're going to be something mysterious.” Kagome shrugged. “Maybe,”

 

“Alright, alright; enough with this costume talk let's go eat.” Inu-yasha interrupted a little annoyed. Kagome realised he didn't get anything. “What about you, Inu-yasha, aren't you dressing up for the dance?” Inu-yasha raised an eyebrow. “Dance?” He repeated. “Yeah you know it's being held in the Great Hall downtown. Our school booked it for us.” Sango replied. “Oh I thought you all planned to go trick-or-treating like little brats.” Inu-yasha responded. “Even though it wasn't, why did you bother inviting Sango and I shopping if you weren't going to dress up yourself.” Kagome asked and Inu-yasha froze. “Uh…well I…just thought it would be great spending time together,” and he blushed. “Anyway, why does it matter that I came, am I bothering you?” Kagome shook her head. “Okay then.” He paused then added. “Besides, I already have a costume planned out.”

 

Kagome cocked her head. “Are you coming or not?” Inu-yasha folded his arms. “Well, I'm not really into dances or stuff like that.” Miroku smacked his own head. “This guy has no clue how to charm women; he's making this so confusing.” He thought. “Oh my God!” Kagome started angrily making the others jump back in shock. “You're the most confusing guy I have ever met in my entire life; it's either you're going or you're not. All I know is that Sango, Miroku and I are going but oh no only you have to make it confusing.” She shouted.

 

 

Inu-yasha blinked then glared at Miroku for planning this behind his back. “I'll think about it. Now let's go eat, I'm starving.” And he walked away. Kagome shook her head and moved over to Sango. “Men, you can never get a straight answer. It's always “I'll think about it, maybe, I don't know." It's very annoying.” Kagome sighed ceasing her anger. “Yeah, but there's only one man on the planet that would give you a straight answer and that's Miroku.” She agreed with a whisper making Kagome laughed softly.

 

“So, Inu-yasha, tell me why it was so hard to give a straight answer?” Miroku asked. “You know you're dying to go with Kagome anyway.” He teased. Inu-yasha snapped at him. “Shut up man, I just don't want her thinking we're following her all over the place.” Miroku shrugged. “What's wrong with that, Kagome doesn't seem to mind?” Then he left his side when they reached the food court.

 

Inu-yasha glanced over to Kagome. She noticed him and gave a small smile. He turned away with a blush but asked, “What are you all hungry for?” They all scanned the restaurants in the food court. There were American fast food restaurants like Mcd's, A&W, Burger King and they also had Subway. Also there were Chinese and other Asian restaurants.

 

“Oh, I'm going for A&W.” Kagome declared. “I'm having Subway, it's safer.” Sango motioned. “I'm not feeling for American food. I'll go get some Okonomiyaki (Japanese pizza).” Miroku responded. “And I'm going for some Chinese.” Inu-yasha stated lastly. “Okay, so we split up and meet at a table?” Kagome suggested. “Yeah, that sounds reasonable.” Miroku agreed. “Alright then, this table, we'll come back here.” Sango marked. They looked at it solemnly. “Yeah, but by the time we come back for it, it might be taken.” Kagome sighed.

 

“I guess I'll have to wait till one of you gets back.” Inu-yasha shrugged. Everyone eyed him with surprise. “Really Inu-yasha? You're sure about that?” Kagome asked. She knew that Inu-yasha was not a patient person and suddenly he's ready to wait till one of them got back. “Yeah, I'll sit out for now.” He replied with a nod. “I got a better idea,” a voice spoke. They all looked up to find a red head boy sitting on their table. “I'll watch your spot for you.” Kagome smiled. “Shippo-chan!”

 

 

“Eh? Shippo?” The rest repeated. “Kagome-chan, who is this little boy, you know him?” Sango wondered. “Yeah, we just met a little while ago in the costume store.” Kagome nodded. “It's very nice to meet all of Kagome's friends.” Shippo smiled. “Yeah, but since you two just met, why do you wish to help us guard our seats?” Miroku asked. “Well Kagome was so kind to me so I wanted to repay the favour.” The friends looked up at her. “What did you do, that he's so generous, Kagome?” Kagome waved her hands in front of her. “This is something we can discuss later, let's go eat.” She giggled awkwardly and marched away with Sango following trying to get some answers knowing her friend she was hiding something.

 

The only ones that were left were Miroku and Inu-yasha. “Well are you guys going too?” Shippo wondered. “Gee, I just don't think I can trust a squirt like you.” Inu-yasha snorted. “Why not and I'm not going to sit here and take that insult from you.” Shippo glared. “Oh what do you plan to do you little runt?” Inu-yasha smirked. “Hey Inu-yasha, why don't we leave the kid and just get lunch.” Miroku spoke. “No, no hold on, I want to know what this kid can do.” He replied. Miroku shrugged. “Whatever man, you're on your own for this one.” Then he left.

 

Shippo glared up at him and Inu-yasha glared down at Shippo. “I know you're not human.” Inu-yasha whispered. “Same for you.” Shippo answered with the same tone. “Tell me, why were you so quick to help out Kagome huh?” Shippo folded his arms. “I just wanted to help a friend that's all.” Inu-yasha sneered. “Oh, I get it, you like Kagome don't you?” Shippo's nose turned light pink and he jumped into his face. “Shut up!”

 

“Ah-ha, I was right. Stupid, how can you expect Kagome to fall in love with a little shrimp like you?” Inu-yasha snickered slamming him down on the table. Shippo peeled his face from the table. “Well she certainly doesn't like you.” Inu-yasha flinched. “Why does that matter it's not like I have feelings for her.” Shippo jumped up. “Yeah right, that's why you came rushing out of nowhere as soon as the boxes fell, I bet you like her but she likes someone else.” He pointed out. Inu-yasha held his head lowering his face to his and tapped his cheek multiple times. “How's it that you know so much of this, I bet it was you I smelt in the store?” Shippo wriggled out of his grip. “Ah-ha, I got you back didn't I?”

 

Inu-yasha knocked him on the head. “Ouch!” He yelped holding his head. “Why you…that hurt!” Inu-yasha snorted. “You're always calling me the runt but the real runt here is you. You're a half-demon aren't you; I can smell the human in you?” Shippo smirked. Inu-yasha raised his fist ready to strike him again. Shippo opened his mouth wide and started to cry loudly causing a crowd to stare.

 

“Oh my gosh, that man's beating on that child! What a jerk. Abuser of children!” The young woman shouted. Inu-yasha jumped back. “You brat, you set me up!” Shippo grinned. “Now watch me everyone!” He announced. “Fox magic!” Shippo commanded. A puff of smoke appeared and Shippo disappeared. “Oh my, where did he go?” The woman asked. “He's a little magician and at his age too.” Another clapped.

 

“Dammit, where did that brat get to now?” Inu-yasha looked around with annoyance. “Huh?” Inu-yasha noticed a cup on the table which wasn't there before. “He's a shape shifter.” He noted to himself and cracked his knuckles then swiped his hand at the cup. The cup dodged his hand and the crowd's eyes widened. The cup transformed back to Shippo's false form. “What? That was so cool?” A kid commented with a cheer.

 

“It was very good of you to figure out my disguises, hehe.” Inu-yasha snorted. “You don't know who you're dealing with kid.” Shippo smirked. “Let's play!”

 

Kagome and the others arrived with their lunches and paused when they saw Inu-yasha grabbing Shippo and bonking him on the head repeatedly. “Learn your place, shrimp!” Shippo held his head. “Inu-yasha!” Kagome shouted. The two looked at her. “What do you think you're doing with Shippo? He's a boy for crying out loud!” Inu-yasha dropped the kit and Shippo moved to her. “Yeah he was being mean to me and never wanted to get his lunch. He stayed here to pick on me.” He whined. “Why you little…” Inu-yasha grumbled. “Enough. Instead of getting food like everyone else, you decided that it would be best to beat the kid to death. Gosh you're such a jerk!” Kagome glared setting her tray down. Shippo stuck out his tongue when she looked away. Inu-yasha grimaced. “Well do you guys have any idea what this brat really is?” Inu-yasha grumbled. “Yes, yes I do actually.” Kagome responded and went quiet. “Wait a minute, does Inu-yasha know about Shippo's true form?” Inu-yasha had about the same thought about Kagome did she find out what Shippo really was? He relaxed and sat down. “Well aren't you getting any food?” Miroku wondered. “No, I suddenly lost my appetite.” He answered with a snort and watched Kagome hand some of her food to Shippo. “I hate that little runt.” He thought.

 

 

They finished eating and said their goodbyes to Shippo and left the mall. Sango glanced at Kagome then to Inu-yasha and smirked she felt like teasing the two for a bit. “So Kagome…” She started moving closer to her. “Yeah?” She replied. “Have you found a date to the dance?” She smirked. “Uh?!” Kagome felt her face getting warmer she glanced quickly at Inu-yasha and begun. “Well…I…uh…” Inu-yasha heard the conversation and took quick glances at Kagome waiting for her to answer. “Well beside from Kouga, who's been asking my over and over. I don't think I have a…” She kicked a pebble in front of her and frowned. “Why are you asking me that? Do you have a date?” Sango coughed. “Yeah right.” Miroku grinned. “I wouldn't mind going with you.” Sango blushed to his sudden proposition. “Uh…I don't do the dating thing, I find it too typical.”

 

“Aww come on Sango, he asked you nicely. Why don't you go with him?” Kagome encouraged. “Yeah, this is coming from the same person who refuses just to ask Inu-yasha. If you think I'm gonna go with that pervert you've got another thing coming.” Sango snorted. Kagome and Inu-yasha looked at each other and blushed. Kagome turned away and whispered. “Uh…S-Sango, y-you don't know what you're saying; besides Inu-yasha may not even come.” She said even more softly hoping he couldn't hear her but he did. “Well…” Inu-yasha spoke. “If it's for someone who can't find a date. I guess I can help with—” Kagome cut him off and shouted. “Hey I can so find a date!” Inu-yasha snickered. “Yeah, this is coming from the person who can't even ask a `certain' guy for a date only for a dance even.” Kagome frowned with a blush. “He's toying with me, fine. I can find a date and I'll prove it.”

 

Miroku stepped in and patted her shoulder. “Kagome-san, this is the way Inu-yasha's asking for a date.” Inu-yasha glared at him and growled. “Shut-up, I have no intention on being Kagome's date!” Kagome shrunk from his reaction and Miroku smacked his head. Inu-yasha just realised what he said and turned his attention toward her. “Kagome I…uh…I didn't mean…” He stuttered. “It's okay, I wasn't expecting you to; if you remember I had made a bet to find my own date and I figured it wasn't going to be you.” She giggled slightly and walked passed him. “Kagome…” Sango wanted to comfort her but she turned and smiled. “Let's go.” Even though she smiled they were able to see she was either angry or lonely. They agreed and followed.

 

It was a much quieter voyage back and someone had to break it. Kagome was still ahead of them and didn't even dare to take a glance back. “Do you think Kagome's mad?” Inu-yasha whispered. “What do you think, you just blew her off.” Sango answered with anger. “You're an idiot when it comes to women aren't you?” Inu-yasha cringed. “Heh, you're realising this now? Inu-yasha's such a big shy puppy dog and doesn't know what to do or say. Oh and just for the record, Inu-yasha really does intend on going to the dance. So all that mumble, jumble you heard earlier was just a load of crap.” Miroku explained. Inu-yasha struck him on the head. “Shut up!” Sango wanted to burst out laughing. “That's so cute; who would have thought the big and tough Inu-yasha would fear dating women?”

 

Inu-yasha blushed. “Y-you don't know what you all are talking about.” He turned away and noticed Kagome was still ahead, head slumped. Inu-yasha felt a lump in his throat and swallowed. What could he do to cheer her up? He hated seeing her like this.

 

Kagome herself sighed once more. “Uh! What's the matter with me? Now I'm ruining our outing because of my emotions. I have to change this awkwardness back to its normal state.” She thought. “Kago-” Inu-yasha began but Kagome lapped over his voice, spun around and spoke. “Hey, guys, I'm sorry for doing this to you.” She smiled widely as possible. “Come on let's do something. I'm fine.” They all blinked in unison. “Are you sure, Kagome?” Sango wondered. She nodded. “Yes, I'm totally fine. Let's go get some ice cream.” She suggested.

 

The others looked at each other then back to her, she was grinning even bigger. “Uh…yes we definitely should take her offer.” Miroku mentioned nervously. Inu-yasha nodded. “That smile always freaks me out.” She smiled awkwardly in return. Kagome turned away and lead the way. Everyone relaxed and followed her.

 

Once they got to the ice cream store they all chose their favourite flavours and left the café. Sango had strawberry, Miroku had caramel, Inu-yasha had vanilla and Kagome had chocolate. They reached a bench near a water fountain and sat down. Miroku, Sango, Kagome and Inu-yasha in that order. It was still quiet besides the sounds of the water sprinkling and licking.

 

Kagome lavishly licked her scoop deep in thought. “Oh boy, this day is certainly going well. Inu-yasha must think I'm a complete fool.” Inu-yasha bent over and watched her. “She's still thinking about what I said? She certainly knows how to hold a silent grudge.”

 

Sango noted this awkward situation and coughed. “Um, well Kagome-chan; you're taking in that ice cream pretty well.” Kagome woke up and registered what she said, she looked around at everyone, blushed, stopped licking and looked down shyly. “Sorry for being rude.” She heard a snort from beside her. “Why are you apologising for all day?” Inu-yasha wondered. Kagome looked up at him. “Sorry.” She apologised for apologising all the time.

 

Inu-yasha growled. “Enough with that!” Kagome placed a hand to her mouth. “Oops, so-” He grasped her hand stopping her. “Kagome, you don't have to apologise. I should be the one to apologise. If what I said hurt your feelings today, I'm sorry.” Kagome held her breath. Everyone else backed away from hearing that. He frowned. “What?” Miroku swallowed. “You just apologised, you never apologise.” He mentioned. “Yeah, I don't know you as long as Miroku, but I know apologising is a hard task for you.” Sango added. “Wow Kagome's has power to be able to bring out your soft side.”

 

“Hey!” Inu-yasha coughed licking his cone. Kagome blushed once more forgetting her ice cream and it began to drip over her fingers. “Yuck.” She flicked her hand and held the cone away from her. “Here.” Inu-yasha offered a napkin. “Oh, thank you.” She smiled and wiped herself clean.

 

Miroku snickered softly but Inu-yasha heard. “Miroku close your mouth!” He raised his hands in defence. “I didn't say anything.” Sango began talking to Kagome about the little boy. “So, Kagome how did you and that little boy meet? I told you I never forget.” The boys turned their attention to the new subject and joined in. “Oh uh… I saw him struggling to reach something, so I went over and got it for him.” She answered simply. “That's all?” Kagome nodded. “Yup.” Sango raised an eyebrow in wonder. “There must be more than that.” Sango was going to ask another question, but something zoomed passed them and bounced off Inu-yasha's head making him plant his face into his ice cream and it sat in Kagome's lap with a puff of smoke. “Eek!”

 

Everyone coughed and Inu-yasha turned to her still with cream all over his face. “Kagome are you…huh?” Inu-yasha watched as the little red head boy hugged Kagome. “You…” Shippo grinned at him. “Hi Shippo.” Kagome greeted. “You pop out from anywhere.” She giggled. “Literally.” She whispered. “Yes, you do seem to show up when it's convenient.” Inu-yasha sneered. “Are you following us?”

 

Shippo cringed. “Uh…” “Oh come on, Inu-yasha, are you ever going to stop teasing him?” Kagome wondered. “Yeah, you should worry more what's on your face than me.” Shippo added. “Huh?” The others snickered as Inu-yasha wiped his face clean. “Keh.” He snorted eating the rest of his cone. “How old are you, Shippo?” Sango asked. Shippo looked to her. “I'm 7.” Sango raised an eyebrow “7 and you roam around the city by yourself? Do you have any parents that would worry about you?” Shippo looked down sadly and quickly snapped to. “Of course I do, they're just… far away right now.”

 

“Far away, they're travelling?” Shippo nodded. “Yeah, for a while.” “Then who are you staying with now?” Miroku cut in. “Uh…oops now what do I say?” Shippo pondered. “My aunt.” He quickly replied. “Oh! It's just strange that she lets you come downtown by yourself.” Sango mentioned. “Sango, many kids now a days venture around the city with or without parental consent.” Miroku noted. “Why we have many cases of children being—” Inu-yasha threw what was left of his cone at his head. Miroku winced and looked back to him. “What did I do?!” Inu-yasha made the “eyes” at him and he responded in understanding. The two girls gaped at Miroku confusingly and Miroku heated up. “Uh… I just watch a lot of news about children roaming around Tokyo and getting attacked by criminals thanks to irresponsible parents.” Miroku coughed. “Yeah, Miroku has quite an obsession with the news, sometimes it gets a little annoying.” Inu-yasha included. Miroku chuckled, scratching his head. Sango raised an eyebrow at him. “There's something fishy going on between these two and I'm going to find out.” She promised and looked away.

 

“So, did you eat Shippo-chan?” Kagome asked. Shippo looked back up at her. “Yeah, I did.” He nodded holding his tummy. “Oh okay.” She smiled. Inu-yasha simply watched the mischievous brat in wonder. “Staying with his aunt huh? Demons may have other family members but they usually don't accept other demons into their home unless one of his parent's is human but he's a full demon cub I can smell it. So how can he be staying with his aunt?” Inu-yasha pondered. He continued to watch the kit talk around with everyone and he was simply beaming with joy, but Inu-yasha titled his head. There was something strange about the kit he seemed a little too joyful, like he was missing a part of him before. “Inu-yasha?” A voice spoke. Inu-yasha blinked and followed the sound to Kagome. “Are you okay? You seem out of it.” Kagome contemplated. “Oh! Yeah, nothing, nothing I'm fine.” He coughed and turned away from them. “Okay.” They responded. Shippo blinked at him in wonder. “I wonder what got into him?”

 

Later…

 

“Bye Shippo-chan!” They all waved except for Inu-yasha who only gave a snort. “See you around and please be careful alright?” Kagome cautioned. “Oh please, I can take care of myself.” He grinned and waved back. Inu-yasha narrowed his eyes when he detected something from Shippo. He noticed his grin was missing something yet again. There was certainly something wrong with the little kit. He seemed lonely? Was that it?

 

“So now what?” Miroku started. “Well its 2:45 now, we still have a full day.” Kagome noted. “It's going to be hard with all the bags we're carrying.” Sango added holding the couple of bags she got from the store. “You're right; the smart thing we could do is go home, put away our stuff and do something later.” Kagome suggested. “We can but where should we meet?” Sango responded. “We could just call each other later and see if we're not too busy.” She replied. “Okay then. Is that all right with you two?” Sango asked. Inu-yasha and Miroku looked to each other and nodded. “Yeah, sure.” Kagome smiled. “Great, so I'll be going now.” “Me too, see you guys later.” Sango waved. Kagome began to walk away until Inu-yasha of course stopped her. “Wait, Kagome, it'll be easier, do you want a lift?” Inu-yasha offered. “Um okay, but Sango, I feel so bad. I always get the easy way out and she and Miroku have to walk. She has more bags than I do.” Kagome replied.

 

Sango laughed. “Oh, Kagome, it's so cute when you worry about me but I'll be fine, really. I'm not alone I have Miroku with me, right?” She reassured looking to Miroku. “Of course.” He nodded. Sango lighted up a bit but turned away. Kagome then understood. “Oh, okay, I see.” She smiled. “What?” Sango reacted. “Nothing, I'll call you later then.” She answered and walked away with Inu-yasha. Miroku looked to Sango. “So we go?” He shrugged. “Um yeah but don't get the wrong idea, okay?” She huffed and walked passed him. Miroku smirked and followed.

 

Inu-yasha and Kagome made it to his bike and he pulled out a helmet for her. She was ready to put it on but held it to her chest. “Inu-yasha?” She started. “Wha?” He turned back to her. “Are you worried about what happened earlier today?” She asked. “Huh?” Kagome leaned on his bike and looked down at the helmet. “You know, what happened when you met up with me.” Inu-yasha softened. “She's talking about when she was attacked. Of course I'm worried about that.” He replied. “You have no idea how important that was.” Kagome raised an eyebrow. “Important; what is he talking about? So is that why you always drive or walk me home? You're worried about my safety aren't you?”

 

 

Inu-yasha realised where she was getting at. “Is she figuring out who I am? I am darn right worried about your safety you have no idea.” Kagome looked back at him. “But why? How does that affect you?” She questioned. Inu-yasha sighed and looked away from her. “You're just a person that attracts danger and it's hard to ignore it. You're someone I don't want to get hurt.” He admitted. It was true not only because he was assigned to, but he couldn't endure if something happened to her. She's more important than he thought. Kagome reddened. “So tell me Kagome, do you know who that guy was?” Inu-yasha asked. Kagome bit her lip and looked from side to side warily. “Well I…I don't know him but…” She paused. “But what?” Kagome looked straight in his eyes and held her hands together. Kagome trusts Inu-yasha, she needed to talk to someone about this `person' and she finally found the person. “Inu-yasha, there's something I need to tell you and I trust only you, you're the only person in the world I'm revealing this to. I haven't even told Sango this.” Inu-yasha was all ears he felt glad that she trusted him like this it was too bad that it made him feel guilty about keeping something away from her. “Tell me Kagome, tell me everything you know.” He insisted holding her clasped hands. Kagome nodded.

 

End of chapter

 

~Some important things are about to happen next chapter so stay tuned for that. Kagome's going to reveal important information and things will happen between Sango and Miroku. YAY Shippo! Nope I haven't forgotten about him; he won't be as important in the story or will he? I really have no clue we'll see how it goes. Till next time