InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Right Way ❯ Caught In-between Times ( Chapter 3 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

(A lengthy chapter, with a small lime, possibly some lemons) Once Inuyasha and Kagome return to Kagome's house, Inuyasha must prove his love to her. But will he have what it takes?

Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Fantasy / Hentai / Comedy / Action | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 02.27.2012 | Updated On: 02.29.2012 | Pages: 18 | Words: 23.7K | Visits: 328 | Status: Work In Progress

Caught In-between Times

The walk back to Kagome's house had been painful for both Kagome and Inuyasha. The tension of the two walking side by side could have been cut with a knife. Occasionally one of them would catch the other glancing at them from the corner of the eye.

When they arrived at Kagome's house, Kagome's mother greeted them both. She could tell something was different between the two but decided not to push it. She knew that Kagome had been out shopping for Inuyasha today, and she also knew that Kagome didn't want Inuyasha to know.

“So Kagome, how was your walk?” Mrs. Higurashi asked.

“My walk?” Kagome paused, “Oh yes my walk, was rather um uneventful.” She said, both her and Inuyasha, starting to blush madly.

“I see.” Kagome's mother said smiling, “Inuyasha, I didn't know you were here, will you being staying with us for a while, or have you come back to take my daughter back with you?” she said with a wolfish grin.

“Nuuhh, *ahem*” Inuyasha coughed clearing his throat, “I guess I'll be staying until Kagome wants to go back, or something maybe.” He said staring directly at the floor.

“Oh? Did you come to just check up on her then?” Mrs. Higurashi asked, her grin now becoming a rather large smile.

“No, uh I mean, Ye-, the grou-, I, um, I-I came for ramen.” Inuyasha stammered. His head completely bowed down, with beet red cheeks and his hair covering his face; realizing what he had just said, he glimpsed over at Kagome to see if what he had said had any effect. Unfortunately he couldn't see her face.

Kagome seemed slightly hurt by the comment, and her face flashed a quick look of sorrow before regaining composure. Mrs. Higurashi made a note of this, and decided it would be better if she stopped the chat.

“Well, I'm sure Kagome can help you make some. Unfortunately I can't stay and chat, I'm taking Souta and Grandpa to soccer practice. We'll be leaving within the next few minutes.” Mrs. Higurashi said effectively ending the conversation.

“Good-bye Kagome, good-bye Inuyasha, its nice to know you came to visit. It has been so long since we last saw you, I'm sure I speak for my family when we all say we missed you.” She said before bowing and grabbing her keys. As she left she called for Souta and Grandpa, and shut the door as the three left the house.

There was a slight pause while Kagome and Inuyasha sat side by side, after the door shut. Kagome was the first to break the silence, “So you came all the way from the past just for some ramen?” Kagome asked sarcastically, getting up and heading towards one of the cupboards.

Inuyasha sat in silence as he stared at the floor trying to think of something to say. Kagome grabbed a packet of instant ramen and threw it at Inuyasha, hitting him square in the head with it. “You just came to stay and eat ramen is that it!? Is that all you have to say for yourself?!” Kagome yelled in a hurt tone.

Inuyasha just sat there with his head down, he couldn't think of anything to say. “What about the alleyway Inuyasha, was that just to shut me up so I could take you home and cook you your precious ramen? WAS THAT ALL IT WAS?!” Kagome shouted at the top of her lungs. She stood there breathing heavily, waiting for an answer that came slow to her.

“It wasn't that at all Kagome.” Inuyasha said.

“Well what was it then!?” Kagome said with hurt in her voice.

“IT WAS, IT WAS-, I DON”T KNOW WHAT IT WAS!” Inuyasha yelled back.

“WELL I DON'T KNOW WHAT IT WAS EITHER INUYASHA!”

“THAT'S NOT WHAT I MEANT KAGOME!”

“WELL WHAT DID YOU MEAN INUYASHA, BECAUSE I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO THINK IT WAS?!”

“WAIT! Let's just stop yelling, first.” He said smelling water and salt mixed together. He didn't want to make Kagome cry, especially about something like this.

“Fine,” Was Kagome's hurt reply, “I'll stop yelling.”

“It was more than something, “ Inuyasha started, “It wasn't just something to get you to stop sitting me-“ Inuyasha said without thinking.

“YOU REALLY DID IT JUST TO SHUT ME UP!?” Kagome said with tears in her eyes.

“NO WOULD YOU LISTEN?! It was more than that, I, it was more than just some sort of action.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Kagome said a few tears starting to come down her cheek.

“I don't know how to explain it…” Inuyasha started. He didn't like the way this conversation was going, for several reasons, the first being Kagome was already started to cry and he hated that. The second being he wasn't good at explaining his emotions. And lastly, he knew that the kiss meant more to him, even though he wasn't thinking it at the time. He didn't want to say something that would hurt Kagome, but at the same time he didn't know what to say so he wouldn't wind up being hurt.

Kagome was hurting inside. She was praying inside her head that he wouldn't say another stupid thing again. If he did she would just have to get him to leave. “Why am I so torn up about such a small, little kiss?” she screamed in her head. It was then that it really sank in to her; she really did have feelings for Inuyasha. Suddenly she realized why she really hadn't had any fun while she was here, Inuyasha hadn't been with her. But now this, was this just some kind of game to him? And what about Kikyo? He wasn't using her in Kikyo's place was he?

Kagome suddenly overcome with emotions sank to her knees and started to sob. Inuyasha's face dropped, this was the last thing he wanted to have happen. Kagome couldn't really even keep track of her thoughts now, she was crying so hard.

Inuyasha saw Kagome sink to her knees sobbing, and almost instinctively, came and kneeled next to her and wrapped his arms around her. “Kagome…” he whispered to her, “please don't cry.” He knew those words weren't enough, and he tried to think of something else to say while Kagome cried.

“Inuyasha”, Kagome choked out between sobs, “I need to know something. When you kissed me, did you do it because you liked the idea of kissing me, or did you do it because somewhere inside of you, you felt like you liked me?” She could barely contain her sobs as she cried the words into his chest.

Inuyasha paused, this was the last thing he was expecting her to say. He was expecting something along the lines of “I hate you”, or “Just leave me alone Inuyasha!” this, this was definitely the last thing he ever thought she would say.

Now it felt like time had paused, after he heard the question. It felt like someone had hit him with a boulder, and then inserted butterflies into his stomach. He knew that deep down he had always liked Kagome, possibly even loved her. But did she feel the same way? When he kissed her, he could smell and feel her body relax, even enjoy it, but that didn't translate to her liking him did it?

“Inuyasha, please give me an answer.” She cried into his chest. Inuyasha's ears went flat as he felt the chance he was about take with his response.

“I really truly liked you and still do…” he whispered into her ear. He felt Kagome's body go limp, and lean against his. Slowly her crying came to be less and less. The time it took was no more than a few minutes, but to Inuyasha it felt like an hour. All he could think was “What was she going to say?”, “Did she like him too, or did she hate him?”

Inuyasha's body tensed. Kagome was breathing normally now, and she had almost stopped crying completely. Slowly she pulled herself away from Inuyasha. She raised her head and her gaze met his, with tears still in her eyes she started to whisper “Inuyasha-“, her hands moving out to hold his. She could feel how tense he was in his grip on her own hands, now that they were joined. “Inuyasha-“, she started again, “I really like you too.” she whispered. As soon as she had whispered that tiny phrase out, she moved her head back up towards his, and slowly touched her lips to his, kissing him softly, gently & quickly.

Inuyasha slowly started to wrap his arms around her as relief washed over his body. He started to stand and picked her up with him, without saying a word he picked her up in his arms, and slowly carried her out of the kitchen, up the stairs and into her room. After laying her gently on the bed, he got on it too; hovering his body above hers, and gulping once, he lowered his head down to hers and pressed his lips against hers. He didn't know exactly what he was doing, but he knew it felt good, and prayed that Kagome was enjoying it too.

Kagome raised her arms, laying one against his back, and the others hand against the back of his head, and relaxed into her mattress as she felt Inuyasha press his lips harder into hers. The universe waited as the two young loves kissed each other. The sun was slowly going down, casting an orange hue on the room. The summer sun felt warm as Inuyasha laid down beside her, and pulled her close to him.

Holding her body flush against, he gazed into her eyes, and pressed his forehead against hers and closed his eyes. He inhaled deeply through his nose, catching her wonderful scent of soaps and lotions, and to his surprise the smell of her arousal.

He grasped her hands, opening his eyes, he stared deeply into her eyes. “I love you Kagome.” He whispered, “I know Inuyasha, I love you too.” She whispered back. Tightening his grip on her hands, he closed his eyes and kissed her again softly. He pulled back as he smelt and felt the tears in her eyes. “Don't cry.” He whispered.

“I can't help it, I'm so happy right now.” She said with a smile. Kagome felt like a giant weight had been lifted from her shoulders, and nothing in the world could break the peace and happiness she felt right now. Never had she known such a great feeling of safety, than she did right now, being held in Inuyasha's arms. As tears of joy slipped down her cheek, she rested her head in the crook of his neck, and kissed it once as she closed her eyes. The feeling of butterflies, mixed with a feeling of a pool of warmth mixed in her stomach. As she nuzzled his neck, she inhaled deeply against his skin. He smelled of trees, sweat, and smoke, and she enjoyed every part of it.

Kagome and Inuyasha lay together like that as the sun started to slowly go down. Time passed by unchecked, but to the both of them it felt like the time passed quickly, both feeling like the moment they were in could last forever. Inuyasha had never known that something as simple as holding the girl he loved in his arms could melt the world and all its worries, threats, and fears away. It felt like he was finally somewhere he belonged, here, lying next to Kagome. He kissed her forehead and closed his eyes as he started to lazily run the fingers of his right hand through her hair.

Kagome was the first to break the silence, “Inuyasha, what are going to do after we get the jewel?”

“I don't know , and honestly right now, I could care less.”

“I think that's the first time I've heard you say anything against finding the crystal.”

“Well if you want, I can grab you, and instead of lying here comfortably, drag you back through the well and we can go back to finding the crystal.” Inuyasha said with a small.

Kagome smiled and stuck out her tongue at him.

With lightning fast reflexes, Inuyasha caught her tongue between his thumb and index finger. “Got your tongue.” He said with a smile.

Kagome suddenly thought of something daring and lewd to do in response, if he knew what the gesture meant. She opened her mouth and took his index finger into it, and slowly started to suck and roll her tongue over it.

Inuyasha was shocked by her sudden action, and while she was sucking on his finger, he remembered a story Miroku had told him about, this one time he had a girl who took him out back of an inn, put her head under his robes and began to suck on his…

Inuyasha went beet red, as he felt himself immediately harden. He immediately pulled his finger out of her mouth, and cast his eyes in any direction other than Kagome's. “Did I do something wrong Inuyasha?” she asked.

“Kah! No, no you didn't do anything bad.” He said his face still beet red. Kagome of course realized that that he had known what the gesture meant, “Probably that damn monk.” She thought to herself, as her face started to turn red as well, realizing what she had just done.

“So , um, did that make you-“ she said blushing harder unable to finish her sentence.

“*Ahem* Uh-“ Inuyasha said, not really capable of finishing the sentence.

“You know it's a natural reaction.”Kagome said still blushing. She caught Inuyasha's gaze by accident, causing them both to look away from each other and blush a little harder.

“Yea.” Inuyasha hastily responded.

Kagome had a thought flash by her mind. “Inuyasha-“ she said pausing, “have you ever thought about me, you know, naked?” She couldn't believe she was saying something like this.

Apparently neither could Inuyasha, as he just stammered, not really saying anything coherent or intelligible. “Because it's okay, you know, if you do.” She said this time looking at him directly, both their faces red.

All Inuyasha could do at this point now was blush and look back. Kagome realized then that Inuyasha probably wasn't going to be the type to know about or do lewd things, so if she wanted the relationship to progress any further, she would probably have to be the one to do something.

“What was an acceptable pace?” she thought, “We're both 18, its normal to do this kind of stuff right?” she asked herself.

Gulping, and in a shaky voice, Kagome decided to ask something even more daring. “Can I touch it?” she said while looking at the bulge forming in Inuyasha's pants.

Inuyasha didn't know what to do, every part of his brain and body were screaming “YES!”, but his mouth didn't seem capable of forming the words. The only action he did seem capable of was a shaky nod of his head.

As she reached out to touch his unexposed member, Kagome's mind was screaming “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! STOP!!!” but inside her heart, she knew that this was the right thing to do.

When her hand finally rested upon his member, she felt Inuyasha bury his face into her neck and let out a small groan. “Could I really do all this to him with just a touch of my hand?” Kagome asked herself. Slowly she stroked the form of Inuyasha's hardened member from outside his pants.

“Kagome…” he started to groan into her ear. Inuyasha felt his mind race as she continued her smooth menstruations against the cloth that his cock was bound in. Inuyasha felt a tug at his pants and he looked down, Kagome was trying to get her hand inside of his pants.

“Kagome…” he groaned again as he felt her soft hand slide against his lower stomach.

“Inuyasha!” said a familiar voice from outside the door. Kagome's hand retreated quickly as Souta entered the room.

Both Kagome and Inuyasha blushed crimson red as Souta entered the room. “Oh you're back Souta?” Kagome asked with a shaky voice. “How was soccer?” she asked not daring to look at him. “It was pretty cool, I scored a few goals myself!” he said proudly, completely oblivious to Inuyasha's and Kagome's current dilemma.

“That's pretty cool kid.” Said Inuyasha, praying the kid brother would leave the room.

“Yeah I guess so!” said Souta beaming with pride, happy that his childhood hero was praising him. “I'll have to tell you about it at dinner!” Souta exclaimed excitedly, “Oh which reminds of why I came up here, Mom said dinner will be ready soon!” still completely oblivious to the situation.

“Okay Souta, Inuyasha and I will be down in a few moments.” Kagome said, her voice returning to normal.

“OK! See you guys downstairs then!” said Souta leaving the room.

Kagome and Inuyasha just lay on the bed staring at one another, trying to take in all that just happened. “We should go…” Kagome started. “Yea, we should…” Inuyasha responded. Both looked at one another and then diverted their gaze from one another.

“Kagome-“ Inuyasha started before he felt Kagome's finger press against his lips, “Let's not talk about it now,” she said her gaze still not matching Inuyasha's, “let's just both go and eat.” She said getting up out of the bed begrudgingly.

“Ok.” Replied Inuyasha grabbing her hand and giving it a quick kiss; Kagome smiled at the warm gesture and started out her room and down the stairs, Inuyasha in tow behind her.

When they came into the dining room they saw a lavish feast set before them, as well as an extra seat for Inuyasha. Kagome and Inuyasha took seats next to each other on one side of the table, while Souta and grandpa sat on the other side, and Mrs. Higurashi taking a seat at the head, meanwhile Buyo sat close to the other end, with a bowl of cat food in front of him in the corner of the room.

“I didn't know when the last time you ate was Inuyasha,” said Kagome's mother, “so I decided to get a lot of food just in case.” With a big smile on her face.

“Thank you Mrs. Higurashi, but-“ Inuyasha started before Mrs. Higurashi cut in saying, “Inuyasha please call me mother, you're like another son to me.” Mrs. Higurashi said with a smile.

“Thank you mom,” Inuyasha said, still feeling uncomfortable using the word, “but you didn't need to buy so much on my account.” In truth that was a complete fabrication. While Kagome had been gone, he had almost eaten next to nothing the entire time she had been gone. He was actually starving, and was happy that so much food was in front of him. “I appreciate you thinking of me though.” He said giving a small bow of his head.

“I could eat all of it!” said Souta digging in without hesitation, “Soccer was really tiring today!” he exclaimed, and with that he started to talk all about his soccer game, and his training that had gone on since he had last seen Inuyasha.

Everyone at the table with the exception of Kagome and Inuyasha seemed to hang onto the words of Souta's sports accomplishments, while Kagome and Inuyasha just nodded along, both catching glimpses of one looking at the other every now and then. Mrs. Higurashi of course caught the two exchanging brief glimpses, but decided to wait to say something until Souta finished speaking.

“So Kagome,” Mrs. Higurashi started when Souta finally finished, “did anything interesting happen while we were gone?” she said with a fox like grin.

Caught off guard by the question, Inuyasha meagerly stated, “Nothing happened.” While Kagome searched desperately for something to say.

“Really?” said Mrs. Higurashi, successfully holding back her laughs, as the two wore light blushes on each their faces. “Well if nothing that interesting happened, maybe you two should go on some kind of a date then.” She said grinning ear to ear.

“Mother!” exclaimed Kagome.

“Was a dape?” Inuyasha asked, his mouth full of rice.

“THAT'S TOO FAR PAST THE LINE!” shouted grandpa as he stood up, “NO granddaughter of mine will date some demon!” his face showing anger.

“Grandpa!” said Kagome and Mrs. Higurashi in unison.

“I still don't understand what's going on.” Inuyasha said with a confused look on his face.

“A date is when two people, who like each other, go out and spend some time together alone at a movie or a fair, or a fancy restraint.” Said Mrs. Higurashi, her face glowing, meanwhile both Inuyasha's and Kagome's face blushing.

“Can two people just go, as friends maybe?” Inuyasha asked hesitantly.

“Of course Inuyasha, just as friends.” Kagome said, hiding her face not wanting to show her hurt expression, her voice hinting sarcasm.

Both Inuyasha and Mrs. Higurashi heard the hurt in Kagome's voice.

“AND YOUR DAMN RIGHT THAT'S WHAT THE TWO OF YOU WOULD BE GOIN' AS!” grandpa yelled.

“FATHER!” Mrs. Higurashi yelled.

“A LIE! THAT'S ALL IT WOULD BE! NO DEMON CAN EVER LIKE OR LOVE A HUMAN! IT WOULDN'T BE NATURAL!” Kagome's grandfather spat out.

“FATHER!” Mrs. Higurashi yelled again.

“ HOW WOULD YOU KNOW OLD MAN?!” Inuyasha yelled back, “SO WHAT IF I DID LIKE HER, LOVE HER EVEN? WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT WHAT A DEMON FEELS?!” Inuyasha shouted back across the table, standing on his feet too now.

“WELL DO YOU?!” grandpa shouted back.

A thick pause hung in the air, before Inuyasha responded in a hushed whisper. “I do love Kagome…” he said blushing, his gaze cast down at Kagome, who was looking up at him, her voice devoid of any pain now, instead showing tears of joy.

“AND MY LOVE FOR HER IS JUST AS NATURAL AS ANY MANS LOVE FOR A WOMAN WOULD BE!” he said shouting again.

“WHAT DOES A DEMON KNOW ABOUT LOVE! NOTHIN' I TELL YOU, NOTHIN'! YOUR LOVE IS AS UNNATURAL, AS THE BLOOD THAT FLOWS IN YOUR VEINS! AHH!” grandpa cried out after his last statement, Mrs. Higurashi slinging both her sandals, at grandpas head.

Mrs. Higurashai's thrown sandal's were too late though. His insult had struck deep and true in Inuyasha's heart. His head cast downward, Inuyasha darted out the front door and down the old well.

“Inuyasha!” Kagome cried, running after him, pausing only to get her shoes on. “Inuyasha WAIT!” she screamed again, as she ran into the cool night air, the sounds of grandpa being beat hard by Mrs. Higurashi in the background.

Kagome ran with tears in her eyes, “INUYASHA! PLEASE WAIT! COMEBACK!” she shouted into the night air as she ran. She knew it was futile though, he could be miles away by now. She couldn't catch him now, even if she wanted too. It was pointless for her to run down the well, this time, she would just have to wait.

Inuyasha's eyes flashed from white to red repeatedly as he leapt from tree to tree. Silent curses passed his lips, as he tried to control the youkai blood emerging in his veins. “WHAT DOES A DEMON KNOW ABOUT LOVE! NOTHIN' I TELL YOU, NOTHIN'! YOUR LOVE IS AS UNNATURAL, AS THE BLOOD THAT FLOWS IN YOUR VEINS!” Kagome's grandfathers remarks still ringing clear in his ears. All he could do now was run.

How badly he wanted to un-hear the entire fight. But no matter how far he ran right now, he couldn't help but feel the old man's words pierce his heart again. He knew those words couldn't be true, could they? He asked himself, leaping higher and farther into the night sky.

No, no he knew his love for Kagome was real. “It was wasn't it?” he said starting to question himself. He landed abruptly and cut through one of the trees with his claw. “Of course I love Kagome!” he thought to himself, his claws cutting through another tree. “But why, why did the old man's word hurt so much?” his mind said screaming at him, as he ripped through another tree.

He paused to breath before slicing through another tree. It was then that he realized it, no matter what time he was in, no matter where he was, it wouldn't matter, because there would still be people who would criticize their love, or view it as “unnatural”.

Tears briefly stained Inuyasha's eye's as he cut more and more trees down. He could feel the hot blood of the youkai in his veins again, he had to stop its build up before he could return. “Calm down.” Was all he could think as he cut through tree, after tree. At the rate it was going, it seemed like he would never calm down, but he had to, for Kagome.

Kagome ran back into the house, tears flowing down her face, her breath coming to her in short sobs. When she saw her grandfather, she didn't hold back as she swung out and slapped his face.

“WHY?!” she screamed at him, “WHY WOULD YOU SAY SUCH TERRIBLE THINGS! WHY WOULD YOU DO IT?!” she screamed at him again.

Her grandfather cowered before her, and rightly so. Not only because of what he said, but because he could see and feel the pure hot white aura, streaming from her body.

“WHY?!” she screamed again, her aura getting even larger, as it started to fill up the whole house.

“Kagome please, I beg your forgiveness!” her grandfather said cowering on his knees.

“WHY!?” she screamed again tears, flowing like rivers down her cheeks.

“I'm sorry Kagome, I am old, and my beliefs-“ the old man tried to reply.

“YOU'RE BELIEFS? YOUR STUPID OLD BELIEFS?! DON'T YOU KNOW WHAT WORDS LIKE THAT ARE FOR HIM?! DON'T YOU KNOW HIS ENTIRE LIFE THAT'S HOW HE'S BEEN TREATED?! AND HERE, IN A PLACE WHERE HE CAN FEEL SAFE, WHERE COULD FEEL AT HOME, WITH OTHER PEOPLE WHO LOVE HIM, WITH SOMEONE LIKE ME WHO LOVES HIM HERE! YOU THINK IT'S OKAY TO SPEW SUCH HATEFUL WORDS, SUCH TERRIBLE WORDS AT HIM?! “she screamed at him between sobs, her aura now causing some of the bowls and plates to rattle.

“Kagome please, I let my thoughts get the better of me. I take it back, I didn't mean what I said at all.” He said now fearing for his life.

“AGHHH!” screamed Kagome, a final wave of her aura flipping some of the bowels and plates over. And with that, she ran upstairs into her room, slamming the door behind her. She fell on her bed and sobbed into her pillow.

All she wanted, all she could think of right now was Inuyasha. “Please come back Inuyasha!” she choked out into her pillow. “Please come back…”

It had been several hours, but finally Inuyasha had done it. He had calmed down, and was ready to go back and see Kagome. His youkai blood was under control, but his thoughts of Kagome, now those were the only thoughts he couldn't control.

He headed back to well as fast as he possibly could. The image of Kagome's face the only thing in his head. As he jumped through the well he felt the magic transport him. Even though he knew it was taking the same amount of time, It suddenly felt longer.

The smell of Kagome's scent filled his nostrils, and his body could almost feel her own tender body pressed up against his. “This portal takes to damn long!” he shouted more frustrated than he had ever been in his life.

Finally he landed and bolted straight to Kagome's bedroom window which was still open. The second he entered it though, the smell of tears, Kagome's tears, hit his nose. “She was crying.” He thought to himself, “it couldn't have been about me, not this much.” He thought as he crept closer to her bed. Sounds of hushed crying could be heard coming from the quivering body on the bed. “Inuyasha, please come back…” he heard it whisper.

“She had been crying about me.” Inuyasha realized as a heavy burden of guilt fell on him. Inuyasha slowly snuck to the side of the bed, beside the crying body. Gingerly he put out his hand and placed it upon her shoulder, “Kagome, please don't cry.” He said with a hushed tone, “not over me.”

Kagome whipped around, it was Inuyasha! “Inuyasha!” she let out with a small yelp, “You came back!” She said reaching out and hugging him.

“Of course I came back, where else would I go?” he said pressing her body as close to his as he possibly could. He looked down over her shoulder, and saw the pillow was covered in tissues, and had a big wet stain in the middle of it, from all of Kagome's tears.

“I don't know.” She said, her head buried in his chest. “I don't know why, but I thought you might never come back after what grandpa said.” She said still shedding some tears. “I'm sorry he said something so terrible-“ she started to say, but Inuyasha pushed her chin up and gently placed his lips against hers.

“I don't care what he says, Kagome, I only care about what you say.” Inuyasha said after releasing the kiss. Getting up a little, Inuyasha crossed over Kagome and lay down on top the covers of the bed. Pulling her close to him, he kissed her forehead and wiped away her tears. “I'll always come back to you Kagome.” He said kissing her lips lightly again.

“Inuyasha,” Kagome started sheepishly. “What is it?” he asked quietly. “Would lay underneath the covers with me? I want… I want to be closer to you.”

Blushing slightly, he was happy to oblige to her request. Slipping silently beneath the sheets he pulled her body close to his. “Is that better?” he asked intertwining her arms and legs, with his. “Yes she whispered against his chest.

“Inuyasha…” Kagome started again. “Hm.” Was Inuyasha's tired reply. The chopping of all those trees were finally starting to take their tole on him. “Do you want to go out on a date tomorrow?” Inuyasha blinked one eye open and smiled, “Of course I would.” He said before planting a kiss on Kagome's nose and closing his eyes again.

“Inuyasha…” started Kagome again. “Hm?” He said starting to feel incredibly tired. “I love you.” She whispered. “I love you too.” He said before pulling her closer, and falling asleep, feeling at home once more in her arms.

With the noon sun shining through Kagome's window, Inuyasha was the first to stir, a sunbeam hitting him directly in the eye. He felt something stir underneath him, it was Kagome. He smiled loving how cute she looked while asleep.

He planted a small kiss on top of her head, and let out a yawn. He reviewed the past day's events in his mind. Somehow he had not only managed to pull off kissing her, and telling everybody in her family that he loved her, but he had also managed to fall asleep with her. He felt, something he couldn't describe, as he looked back down at Kagome's sleeping form. All he knew is that the feeling felt good.

“Kagome…” he whispered in her ear, “Kagome, it's time to get up.” Kagome squirmed under the blankets, “Not yet.” Came her tired reply. “Kagome, its past noon, we need to get up.” He whispered to her again, giving her a small shake.

Kagome lazily opened her eyes as they started to focus on Inuyasha's face. “Inuyasha?” ask Kagome tiredly with a yawn. Suddenly she remembered the events of the past day. They almost seemed like a dream to her. “Inuyasha.” Kagome said less sleepily, “What time is it?” she said rubbing one of her eyes.

“I think it might be noon.” Inuyasha said leaning down to give her head a small kiss. “Mmm, let's just go back to sleep then.” She said nuzzling her face against his chest. Giving her another small shake Inuyasha said, “Come on Kagome, let's get up, I said I'd take you on a date today didn't I?”

“Yes you did.” Kagome said yawning, “but it doesn't have to start until later.” She said letting out another small yawn, while starting to close her eyes again. “I'll push you out of the bed if you don't get up.” Inuyasha said playfully. “You wouldn't dare.” Kagome said opening her eyes and narrowing them. “I'll do it if you don't get up.” He said with a grin on his face. “One.” He said the grin turning into a smile. Kagome realized with mock horror that she couldn't sit him if she wanted to. “Two.” Said Inuyasha in a taunting voice. “Inuyasha don't you dare!” Kagome said with a small shriek as she felt his arms grab around her. “Ok you're getting thrown out now!” Inuyasha said with a laugh. “Inuyasha NO!” Kagome said as she felt herself start to fall from the bed.

With faster than lightening reflexes, Inuyasha shifted Kagome so she would land on him and not the floor. With a loud “thud”, the two wound up on the floor, Kagome sprawled out on top of Inuyasha. “You know I'm going to get you for this.” Kagome said very flatly, still dressed in yesterdays attire.

“You can try but I don't think it will do you any good!” Inuyasha exclaimed in a matter-of-fact kind of tone. Giving her a small kiss he sat up, with her in his lap, and kissed her a little deeper. A sudden knock on the door made the both of them jump.

“I'm glad to see your both up, but instead of lounging around in the bedroom, how about you both come downstairs, I've made lunch for the both of you.” Said Kagome's mother, pausing at the end. “And Inuyasha, there is somebody downstairs who wants to speak with you when he gets the chance.” She said and then left.

The words of Kagome's grandfather rang in his ears, but they didn't seem at all, as long as Kagome was in his arms. “Perhaps we should go.” Said Kagome getting up, and helping Inuyasha back up. “I thought you wanted to go back to sleep?” Inuyasha said pulling her tighter to him. “Maybe later tonight.” She said with an evil grin before heading for the door.

As Inuyasha chased after Kagome for no real reason, he couldn't help but feel like smiling. Two days ago he thought something like this could never exist, but now, now even the act of conquering the world seemed possible.

On the kitchen table sat two large bowels of ramen. Both Kagome and Inuyasha dug into the food while Mrs. Higurashi sat at the table with them. “So…” Mrs. Higurashi said breaking the silence, “I would like to be the first to apologize for my father's actions. I would also like to be the first to congratulate the both on your relationship!” Mrs. Higurashi said, causing both Kagome and Inuyasha to choke on their noodles a little bit.

“Inuyasha I wanted to offer you the use of our shower, before you go out with my daughter tonight.” Mrs. Higurashi said, after Inuyasha and Kagome finished their noodles. “I also took the liberty of getting some of my husband's older clothes to wear tonight; I think they would fit a man of your height and build just fine.”

“Before all that happens though, Kagome why don't you go shower, Inuyasha and I want to talk to grandpa.” Mrs. Higurashi said in a de-facto tone.

“Alright.” Kagome agreed, deciding not to argue the point at all.

As Kagome headed upstairs Inuyasha walked with Kagome's mother into the living room, where grandpa was sitting, with a look of sorrow and shame on his face. “Will I have to be here for this conversation?” Mrs. Higurashi asked grandpa before sitting Inuyasha down. “No.” was his quick reply.

As Mrs. Higurashi left the room, Inuyasha couldn't help but feel uneasy, as no doubt did Kagome's grandfather. Without Kagome at his side, looking at the man made him slightly mad. He felt his youkai blood boil beneath his skin. He gripped the chair he was in, he had to remain calm no matter what here.

“Inuyasha.” The old man started but stopped.

The silence between the two of them was very uncomfortable for both. “Inuyasha, maybe a story from my past will help you understand.”

“Just what I wanted, “ Inuyasha thought sarcastically to himself, “a story.”

“When I was very young, I participated in the army, and in doing so, became involved in a war that engulfed the entire world. Our allies at the time had done great evil, but because of our previous acts, we had no choice but to remain in the war. Of course our honor forbade us from surrendering, and the enemy had to do something, that has yet to be repeated in history.” Tears started to form in the old man's eyes. “On August sixth, the enemy did something so terrible; we never thought it would happen again. They dropped something on us called an `atomic bomb'. I'm sure in your time there are such things as fireballs, or explosions, but this `atomic bomb' was different from anything you could ever imagine. I remember from my combat post hearing about what was going to happen, and felt sorry for the loss we were about to encounter. On that black day, August sixth, they blew the bomb up, by dropping it in Hiroshima. The enemy, `Americans' as they're known, killed thousands of people in that one day Inuyasha. We wanted to surrender, but our honor and pride forbade us from doing so.” The old man started to cry harder now. “And then on August ninth, they dropped another bomb. So many innocent civilians had died then, that there was no point in continuing the war. Because of those two bombs Inuyasha, almost a quarter of a million Japanese people died.” The old man paused, as Inuyasha was awestruck, even somewhat sickened by what the old man was telling him.

“From that day on I swore to hate every American, with every last fiber of my being. But then something happened. As the years passed, those we once considered our enemies, had new leaders, and new people were born every day, each of them with their own view on what happened.” The old man's tears had stopped running now.

“And do you know what happened many years later Inuyasha? I met an American. He had moved here, to live in Japan. I was furious. Imagine, an enemy like that having the nerve to live here. So I decided to go an speak with him, tell him he had to leave, that his kind weren't welcome here. After I came into his apartment, I asked him what he thought of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Oh I was ready to tear into his flesh, a dirty American, was standing right in front of me, and now I had the opportunity to say what I really wanted. But he said something that changed me, and caused me to see something I never thought I would see before.” Inuyasha was now fully intrigued by the old man's story now, and he was clinging to every word at this point.

“And do you know what that American did Inuyasha? He pulled out a picture of his own grandfather, and he told me how his grandfather had served in world war two as well. And that he had even been in Pearl Harbor when we attacked it. Obviously his grandfather survived the attacks. And the American told me, that after he was born and old enough to learn, his grandfather tried to teach him to hate the Japanese. Told him to learn to hate us, Inuyasha. Then the American told me that as he got older, he went to school. And when the day came for him to start learning he found out his history teacher was Japanese. Because of all the hate his grandfather had taught him, he hated his teacher as well, until the day he learned about Hiroshima and Nagasaki. That young American told me, that on that day he cried. He didn't cry because he had found out everything about the war, he cried because of the fact that so many people had died. So when he went home that day, he asked his grandfather if he had been part of Hiroshima, and Nagasaki. And do you know what Inuyasha, his grandfather had been involved. I didn't know what to say, here before me stood the grandson of my enemy; and I won't ever forget what he did next Inuyasha.”

“What did he do?” Inuyasha asked.

“He fell to his knees crying, and asked me to forgive him and his grandfather, not just for the bombing, but for hating someone for what their ancestors had done to them. I broke down and cried too Inuyasha, because I realized that as time changes, so do some people too. I realized not everybody in America, not even some of the soldiers at the time, had wanted to drop that, bomb, and what's more, to this day, there are American's who still hate the idea that of what some of their older relatives had to do. Do you want to know what I learned that day Inuyasha?”

“What?”

“I learned that hate is futile. You don't always have to forgive someone's forefathers for what they did, but what you cannot do, is judge someone who had no hand in what happened, because sometimes Inuyasha, those people hate what happened too.”

“Last night, and for every day before that that I knew you, I realize now, that I became like that young Americans grandfather, and it was because I hated you for being part demon, even though you had nothing to directly do with what your fore-fathers may have done. Instead of showing hate to all humans, you became different, so different you even became capable of loving a human, even though humans from your time I know have probably treated you with hate and scorn.”

“Inuyasha, I want to apologize not for just last night, but for everything I have ever said to you out of hate. I know it may be asking a lot, but could you forgive me, for even harboring the tiniest bit of dislike for you because of what you are?”

Inuyasha was silent. Nobody in his entire life had apologized for something like this. Not once in his entire life. And right now he had the opportunity to forgive someone who had not only treated him differently because of his demon heritage, but he also had the opportunity to not forgive him. He sat there in silence, pondering over the significance and meaning of all this.

As time passed, he heard Kagome's shower shut off, bringing him back to reality. Kagome's grandfather was there, seated with his head and hands upon his cane, looking at Inuyasha. Still somewhat shocked by his grandfathers story, and even more so his apology, he fumbled with the words he knew he had to say, “I forgive you.”

Kagome's grandfather bowed his head low and said “Thank you.”

Several minutes passed in silence before Kagome's mother appeared in the doorway. “Is everything okay now?” she asked.

“Good. Inuyasha, do you know how to use a shower?” Mrs. Higurashi asked.

“Yes, but I don't know what to use in it though.” He said. After a brief tutorial of how everything worked, and what to use, Inuyasha showered. He toweled off and found a pair of black pants, a red button down shirt, two tubes of cloth and a pair of shoes. He put the pants on after he slipped his fundoshi. The shirt and pants fit well, but he had no idea what the two tube of cloth were for. Finally after examining them for a few minutes he decided that the only place they could be for was his feet, it turned out he was right. Looking down he saw the next obstacle, shoes.

He hated wearing shoes, that's why he was always barefoot. But knowing Kagome's society, people probably still didn't run out in their feet. “Well if it's for Kagome…” he thought before slipping them on. They fit perfectly, but he still hated the feeling of the confines of them. Walking out of the bathroom he almost missed the last item, a hat, perfect for covering up his ears.

He walked down the stairs and saw Kagome. She looked beautiful; she had on a pair of black form fitting jeans, opened toed shoes, a flowery white t-shirt, and an unbuttoned blue sweater on. To Inuyasha, she was the most beautiful looking thing in the world.

“Are you ready?” asked Kagome, a small blush on her cheeks.

“Yea.” Inuyasha said, “You look really pretty.” Was all he could say still dumbstruck by her beauty.

Kagome blushed again, before grabbing a tiny purse, and said “Let's go then.”

At the front door stood Kagome's mother, holding a nice leather jacket, “Here Inuyasha,” she said, “Just in case it gets too cold.” As Inuyasha took the jacket, Mrs. Higurashi said in a hushed voice, “Check your pockets and don't let her pay for anything.” Inuyasha gave a quick nod, and with that, he and Kagome went out the door.

“Where do you want to go?” asked Inuyasha, noticing that sundown was starting to come.

“I thought maybe seeing a movie would be a good start.” Kagome said.

Inuyasha got down on his haunches, and instinctively, Kagome climbed on Inuyasha's back. “Which way?” he asked. Kagome pointed in the general direction of the theatre, and within a few minutes they were standing outside the movie theatre.

“So what do we do now?” asked Inuyasha.

“We choose a movie to watch!” said Kagome starting to stand in line for tickets.

“Do you already know what you want to see?” asked Inuyasha.

“Yes.” Kagome replied

“What's it called?” he said slinging an arm over her.

“O Brother, Where Art Thou?” Kagome said, blushing at his display of public affection.

“Sounds interesting.” Said Inuyasha, lying through his teeth.

He reached in his pocket when they got to the window, and the man in the booth told them the price for the movie. What he found, while Kagome was searching for her purse for money, was a rolled up wad of paper. He counted how much the man wanted out, and got two tickets, then they both headed inside.

“Where did you get the money from?” asked Kagome.

“Oh, I just found it.” Was the only lie that Inuyasha could think of.

Kagome gave him a wary look, but didn't press the matter, as the movie was starting.

An hour of the movie had passed and Inuyasha tried his best to stifle a yawn. Although watching the moving pictures was fascinating, he found the movie to be pretty boring. Kagome on the other hand seemed to enjoy it. A whole half hour passed, and Inuyasha was starting to feel restless. Even though Kagome enjoyed the movie, he lost interest after the first twenty minutes.

Finally after several more minutes the movie ended, and Inuyasha couldn't be happier. Kagome seemed really excited about the movie, so he just nodded along with her thoughts, as they walked out the theatre.

When they exited the building, Kagome turned to Inuyasha and asked, “What do you want to do now?”

Inuyasha pondered the question for several minutes, and then he got an idea. Grabbing Kagome's hand he dragged her into an alley. “Get on my back.” He said.

“Where are we going?” Kagome asked as she climbed on. “It's a surprise!” Inuyasha said with a grin, and with that took off into the night air.

It was a good fifteen minutes before Inuyasha finally stopped, atop a tall building. “Where are we?” Kagome asked.

“Honestly I have no idea, I just remember coming here once at night. It was quiet and the stars looked just like they do now.” He said pointing to the stars. Indeed the stars were twinkling bright that night. Wrapping his arms around Kagome, both he and she looked up at the stars, admiring their beauty in the soft night air. The silence from the constant noise of the city was wonderful.

Laying his jacket on the ground he pulled Kagome down to lay on top of him. Time didn't seem to pass as the two looked up at the night sky.

“It really is pretty here.” Kagome said, enjoying being so close to the stars.

“They made me think of your eyes.” Inuyasha said sheepishly, before wrapping his arms around Kagome.

Kagome let out a small laugh, “That's sweet of you Inuyasha, but real corny.”

“I don't care.” Inuyasha said before kissing her neck.

“I know you don't.” Kagome said, turning over and kissing his lips.

The two of them stayed like that for several minutes, just holding and kissing one another, letting the night sky shine in its glory above them. Several shooting stars passed unnoticed by the two young lovers. They lay there underneath the night sky, just holding each other.

Finally Inuyasha broke the silence, “Are you hungry?”

“I could eat.” Kagome sighed happily. “Do you have any idea where we are though?”

“Not really, all I know is I can smell the sea.” Inuyasha said pointing in a direction. “Maybe we can find some directions to a restaurant there.” Inuyasha said while motioning for Kagome to get on his back.

When she did, Inuyasha took off towards the dock area. He could see a small fire burning from high atop a building after several minutes of travel. “Look,” he said to Kagome, “I think there might be some people there.” As they got closer to the area, the sound of lively music, and some men and women laughing entered their ears. Inuyasha landed on the ground a small ways away from the light and people.

After Kagome dismounted from him, they both started to walk to where the music, cheering and laughter was coming from. Kagome walked behind Inuyasha, as they headed toward the group of rough looking men, and the women. After their song had finished, Inuyasha spoke up, “Hey, do you guys know where I could find a nice restraunt?”

“A restraunt eh?” said a man holding a strange looking box, with strings on it, holding it close to his cheek. “Well we might be able to help ye,” said the man, sounding like a younger version of Kaede. “But if we were it would mean you'd have to come and share in a small drink and song with us first!” he said as the other men and women let out a small cheer.

“Maybe we should just go.” Kagome whispered into Inuyasha's ear.

“Oi boy-o!” said the man with the oddly shaped box again, “what's that you got behind yer back?!”

Inuyasha tensed his claws, he didn't want to have to fight, but he would if things got ugly. “How about you just answer my question?” said Inuyasha with an irritated voice.

“Come on boy-o, we don't mean ya' no harm! What's that that you got behind yer back then?!” said the mad with a laugh.

Kagome peeked her head out shyly from behind Inuyasha.

“Oi boys! Look it be a lass!” the man said with a chuckle, a few of the men chuckled as well. “Tell me boy-o, is the reason you be lookin' for a restaurant, because you wish to take that there fine looking lass with you to one?” said the man, with a somewhat drunk slur.

“We just want a place to go eat. “ Inuyasha said clenching his fists.

“Well if you be looking for a good place to eat lad, ye and your lass must join us in one drink!” the man said ending his sentence with a cheer, causing several of the men and women to cheer as well.

“Inuyasha, let's just go.” Kagome said tugging on Inuyasha's hand. Inuyasha turned around as well, when he heard the man say it, “What's the matter boy-o to afraid to take a drink like a real man?!” causing some of the other men to laugh.

Inuyasha stopped dead in his tracks, for some reason that taunt just got to him. “Wait Kagome,” he said, “they did say if we had one drink they would tell us where a restaurant is. Let's just have the one drink and go.”

“Inuyasha, I don't know.” Kagome said. “They don't seem to be the type who would want to help.” Upon hearing that Inuyasha remembered Kagome's grandfathers words about judging people.

“Come on Kagome, I'm sure one drink with them can't hurt, besides, maybe they really can help us.” Inuyasha said. “Don't worry, if anything happens, I'll be here to protect.”

“I still don't know Inuyasha.” Kagome said uneasily.

“Come on,” Inuyasha said with a wink, “it could be fun.”

With a look of skepticism Kagome agreed, and the two turned back and walked towards the now roaring fire. “Alright,” said Inuyasha, “one drink, but then you tell us what we want to know.”

“Ah so the lad has some stones on him!” said the man, causing the small group to cheer. “Take a seat right here lad, and let your lass sit next to you!” he said pointing a long stick at two empty crates next to each other.

As Kagome and Inuyasha sat down, a small glass was placed in Inuyasha's hand. As the man started to fill it up, he said “A drink is fun you know lad, but a wager is even better. How about it.” Without even consulting Inuyasha shook his head, something in the man's voice just egged him on.

“Haha! That's a brave lad!” the man said starting to pour a clear brown liquid into the glass. “Alright boy, here be the terms, if you can swallow the whole drink in one go without coughing or battin' an eye, we tell you where a good restaurant is.”

“And if I don't win?” asked Inuyasha.

“Then you and your lass must join us in our drink and feast, and dance together at least once.” The man said with a unison of cheers.

“Inuyasha don't-“ Kagome started. But it was too late, Inuyasha had swallowed the entire tiny glass whole. Everyone watched and waited with baited breath, as he quickly swallowed the liquid. Halfway down his throat, Inuyasha thought he would be fine, until he felt the burn of it hit his throat.

Trying his best not too, Inuyasha let out several coughs as he felt the fiery liquid burn his entire throat as it entered his stomach. All the men and women let out laughs and cheers, as Kagome's face sunk into her hand, “I swear, sometimes you're just a fool Inuyasha.” Kagome said while Inuyasha tried to regain his composure.

“Sorry.” Was all Inuyasha could get out between coughs.

“OI GENTS, it looks like we got two more to join us in our party tonight!” said the man, getting a resounding cheers from the other men in the group. Jumping up he started to play his instrument, doing a tapping his foot to the rhythm, he turned to Kagome and Inuyasha. “What's your name boy?” he asked Inuyasha.

“Inuyasha.”

“And what's your name, fine lass?!” the man asked Kagome.

“Kagome.”

“AYE LETS HEAR IT FOR THE TWO LOVERS! INUYASHA AND KAGOME!” said the man, getting another cheer from the small group

Both Inuyasha and Kagome let a small blush out, at the words the man had said, before he started with another lively tune. Several cars pulled up to the dock, and the man with the instrument cried out “AND HERE BE THE REST OF OUR PARTY!” as the others let out a cheer.

Kagome and Inuyasha watched as some of the new men smashed empty crates, and lit them on fire, creating two large fires. Over the two fires they placed two large spits, each filled from side to side with huge cuts of meats.

The man gave a small kick to Inuyasha and said, “Get up Inuyasha, do you and yer lass know how to dance a jig?”

Both Inuyasha and Kagome shook their heads no. “Then you and Kagome get up, and we'll show you how its done!” said the man starting a small dance, while playing his instrument. Several other men joined him while the rest started to clap along with the sway of the music.

Both Inuyasha and Kagome watched the man's feet move, the steps seemed simple enough, as they continued to watch, they started to mimic the steps shyly at first, but soon could dance just like the man was.

The man playing his instrument cried out “Two pints for the lovers, while they learn to dance a jig by my fiddle!”

Two tall glasses filled with a black foamy liquid appeared before Inuyasha and Kagome, as they continued to try to learn to dance. The smell of the meat cooking hung in the air, as other aromas of fresh food filled the air.

Soon many were dancing, and clapping their hands, while Kagome and Inuyasha stopped to sip their beers. “Sorry the date isn't what it should have been.” Inuyasha said to Kagome. “You know what Inuyasha, it's okay, I'm really having fun.” She paused for a brief second, “Inuyasha come closer.” As Inuyasha leaned in closer, Kagome caught him off guard, as she softly kissed his lips. Several people in the group saw the small act and let out whistles and cheers.

As Kagome started to break the kiss, Inuyasha grabbed Kagome with both arms, and held her as he kissed her lips hard. More cheers and whistles sounded throughout the now larger crowd. “FOR THE YOUNG LOVERS!” said the man with the fiddle, stopping to raise his glass of beer in a toast. “FOR THE YOUNG LOVERS!” the crowd cried back, lifting their glasses as well in a toast. Grinning and blushing madly, Inuyasha held Kagome tight, as she buried her own blushing face in his chest.

“A SONG!” someone in the crowd called out, several more repeating the words in unison. “Oi lad, lass, do eit'er of you know how the songs work here?” The fiddle man asked while he continued to play. Both Kagome and Inuyasha shook their heads no. “Alright, follow along if you can, but if you get a verse wrong, you have to take a drink from your beer!” the fiddle man said.

“NOW HOW ABOUT WE START OUR SONGS OFF TONIGHT WITH SOMETHING SIMPLE!”

“WHISKEY IN THE JAR!” cried one man, “KISS MY ASS!” cried another, “FUCK YOU I'M DRUNK!” cried out yet another. “BOG DOWN IN THE VALLEY!” cried another voice

“BOG DOWN IN THE VALLEY IT IS!” shouted the fiddler.

Soon he started a tune and started to sing: