InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Destroyed Happiness ❯ Destroyed Happiness 8 ( Chapter 8 )

[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]

Destroyed happiness
 
~*~*~*~
 
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha, and I do not make money off my stories.
 
~*~*~*~
 
A/N: I haven't been around for a while, but now I'm back and eager to write some more. I know I might be speeding things up, but I sooooo wanted to add some fluff to this story :) Enjoy and please review.
 
~*~*~*~
 
 
They were blinded by worry. When Kagome had found Aiko, her heart had stopped in its tracks. The jolt of the obvious fall from the tree had knocked the child unconscious and the hectic mother screamed for help. It had only been a couple of minutes that she had left her daughter alone to play in the sand while she had gone to buy her that vanilla ice-cream she loved so much and upon returning…
 
Now her shoulders quivered desperately as she clutched Inuyasha's shirt, letting her tears wet it. She was more upset with herself than with Aiko. The girl was young - climbing trees probably seemed fun. Irresponsible mother - that was what she was.
 
Inuyasha rubbed her back soothingly, tears coating his eyes, as well, but he tried to stay strong for both of them. They said Aiko was still unconscious, but so much time had passed. People died from tree falls; he could only hope this would not be his daughter's tragic end. That would be entirely too cruel.
 
“It's not your fault,” he whispered for the hundredth time that day, but still felt Kagome shake her had against his chest. It was obvious she didn't share his opinion.
 
“Come on, Kagome, she's gonna wake up any moment now. Do you want her to see you crying?” But his words seemed to only upset the woman further, because her fingers tightened on the soft fabric clutched between them, Kagome's body pressed against Inuyasha's.
 
He didn't blame her. Aiko was rather boyish, and he knew climbing trees were spiked a child's curiosity. But Kagome had seen Aiko fall from the corner of her eyes, she had found her on the ground, she had… she just had to live with that horrifying image.
 
“She's a child; children do that,” he said soothingly, but his words were strained, as if he could barely keep tears in.
 
Kagome's puffy eyes rose to meet his moist ones - his heart ached inside his chest at the tragic, desperate look she gave him.
 
“Can you honestly say it's not my fault?!” she demanded frantically, biting her lower lip harshly. “Can you say that it was okay I left her there all by herself?” She was punishing herself now. “Was it okay that I never ever thought about telling her not to climb trees because they're dangerous? Especially those in the park, since they're so big?”
 
“Yes,” he said sincerely, looking her in the eyes and she faltered for a second upon seeing the sincerity swimming in his liquid orbs.
 
“O… kay,” she whispered, burying her face into his chest once again. His hand automatically went to wrap itself around her shoulders, holding her as close to him as possible, determined to comfort her. Truthfully, he was as scared as she was, but there was nothing to be done about it. Now they simply had to wait.
 
And hours went by, with them not even thinking about heading home to take a shower, Sesshomaru and Rin came, Ayumi came, they left, they came back - it was all a blur. Then the doctor that tended to their daughter came with a file in her hand, her face emotionless. It was disturbing, but better than a grimace or a sad expression - it meant hope was plausible.
 
“Your daughter is not in danger of losing her life,” the middle-aged woman said kindly, he face still not showing any emotions. “But we will have to keep her here for at least a week and a half.”
 
Inuyasha nodded anxiously, rubbing Kagome's head soothingly. “Sure, no problem.”
 
“Is there anything else wrong with her?” Kagome asked weakly between sobs.
 
The woman looked at her almost cautiously. “I am not sure. I'd like to keep her here for a week and a half, as I said. Then we'll see what happens, I still have to run some tests.”
 
After she left, Kagome's eyes were wide and stuck on the retreating figure. “What does she mean, she doesn't know? She's a doctor, isn't she?”
 
“Yes,” Inuyasha countered, “she's just a doctor.” He wasn't annoyed - just tired. “Look, Kagome. She's doing what she can and we're going to do what we can, as well. Everything will be fine. Trust me,” he said without thinking, but for a first time in long she didn't react to the words. A smile threatened to overtake him even in that difficult situation. He had a chance, and things seemed they would fix themselves soon.
 
Kagome was comforted by Inuyasha's words; he'd always had a way to calm her no matter the situation. Her eyes were closed peacefully as she listened to the rhythm of the heart that beat soothingly inside Inuyasha's chest. Aiko was close and she was okay. Or so the doctor said. Inuyasha was ready to show her he was sorry. She knew she'd already forgiven him, but it was harder to forget. But she'd do it. For them, she'd do it, because being in his arms erased any form of doubt or sadness. In his embrace she felt delicate and powerful at the same time. She felt protected, cared-for.
 
Her skin tingled where Inuyasha's fingers unconsciously drummed against her arm. Smiles and kisses - that was what they'd shared all those years in the past, and all of a sudden she had the avid urge to do it again. But it would be too soon. She'd be giving her heart to him again too soon, even though that was slightly incorrect since her heart was already filled to the brim with him. Her skin, her flesh wanted him close, but her brain sometimes rebelled.
 
What if he'd betray her again? What if he'd lie again? What if she'd have her heart broken once again?
 
But when her mind didn't revolve around Aiko, it was full of thoughts of him, of memories of the two of them by the lake, in the summer light, passionate mornings in their bedroom, magical nights on the balcony… Thoughts like these hurt and left a sweet taste afterwards at the same time. They were welcome and undesired at the same time. She feared and loved them.
 
She loved him - she still loved him.
 
“Can we see Aiko?”
 
Kagome raised her head at Inuyasha's strong, calm voice. She hadn't even noticed the nurse approach.
 
“Of course.”
 
When they saw her, they were relieved. She didn't look bad, she wasn't injured too badly; Aiko was fine. She was going to be fine. Even if Inuyasha had been equally worried, Kagome was the most comforted.
 
“Sweetheart, my little girl,” Kagome whispered lovingly, tears of joy trailing down her cheeks as her trembling hands caressed her daughter's face. The little thing was strong and she had to stray strong for her mommy and daddy, to bring them closer. “I love you. I love you so much. Mommy and daddy love you, did you hear that?”
 
When she leaned down to kiss a puffy cheek, she didn't notice Inuyasha's look of astonishment. They seemed like a true family. They acted like a real family… he was so happy.
 
“Do you want to take a shower? I can stay with her,” Inuyasha suggested, rubbing Kagome's back, surprised she didn't flinch away now that Aiko was fine. Kagome didn't need comfort anymore and he was saddened by the thought. However, she surprised him by letting him touch her as if it was nothing unusual.
 
“No, I'm not leaving her side. Besides, you can take one if you want to.” But he didn't. He was content here, with Kagome and Aiko.
 
“Don't worry about me,” he said quietly and Kagome nodded instinctively.
 
Minutes, hours passed and Kagome found herself curled on Inuyasha's lap, her head resting in the crook of his neck as he played with a few strands of her hair. None of them said anything to disturb the peaceful silence and Aiko hadn't moved for a moment.
 
His fingers traveled down to her neck unconsciously and he felt her shiver. A pleasant feeling of happiness swirled inside him at the effect he had on her. Maybe she longed for his touch as much as he did. Perhaps she still wanted him the same, intense way he wanted her. His short hair almost stood straight when her dainty fingers settled on his chest, where his shirt had a couple of buttons open. The touch of her fingertips was heavenly and he realized how much he'd missed days like this. He'd missed her truly - with his entire being. The urge to grab her chin and tilt her head upwards so he could kiss her grew too strong and he had to reluctantly take her off his lap and pretend to go to the bathroom so she wouldn't feel offended. In reality, Inuyasha couldn't deal with his own emotions when he held her close and he didn't want to rush things. Well, he did, but he knew it was not appropriate.
 
When he came back, Kagome realized how incredibly skinnier he was than before. Maybe he had suffered, as Sesshomaru had said. No. It was obvious: he had suffered. He was entirely changed, though no less attractive, because what always brought her to him was his personality, the enticing flavor of his lips. If she continued having such thoughts she'd jump him and that was something she wanted to avoid.
 
So she turned her head towards her daughter, a good strategy.
 
Soon the little girl's eyes fluttered open and Kagome released a relieved sigh. Inuyasha was by her side in the blink of an eye and they both explained to Aiko that she'd fallen out of the tree and she had to be more careful the next time. There was no point in reprimanding her.
 
“I promise,” the little girl said simply and Kagome couldn't help but smile.
 
In the few days they took her home and didn't leave her alone at all. Sometimes they spent their time at Inuyasha's place, sometimes at Kagome's. And one day, Aiko asked something innocently, but her question startled both parents.
 
She looked at Inuyasha purposefully and asked him, “Are you my daddy?”
 
He froze and Kagome did, too. It was her call and they knew it. Inuyasha was ready to be called `father', but if Kagome didn't want to yet, he'd wait.
 
“Why are you asking this, sweetie?” Kagome interfered, stalling.
 
“My friends have a daddy that plays with them and brings them toys and cooks when mommy can't. Inuyasha does that, so does it mean he's my daddy?”
 
Her reasoning was so simple and cute that Kagome couldn't help but smile widely and nod. “Yes honey. Yes, he is your daddy.”
 
“Suuuuper,” she exclaimed, something she'd picked up from a boy she played with. In a happy frenzy, the little girl threw her arms around Inuyasha's neck, never noticing his astounded face. His eyes closed on their own when he almost started crying, holding the sweet angel tightly. “Then I'll call you daddy,” she decided with a big smile. He nodded at her eagerly, kissing her cheek while looking at a content Kagome.
 
In the evening, when Sesshomaru and Rin came over for dinner, he suggested they came by one day when he was at Kagome's. They could spend some time together, all five of them, it would be nice. Sesshomaru seemed to consider the idea, but he didn't say anything.
 
Rin was, of course, more ecstatic than usual, and both men knew it had to do with the drastic change in Inuyasha's behavior. He was no longer moody and depressive - he was full of life and optimism and more playful than ever. Even Sesshomaru was grateful for it. He looked better, too - healthier.
 
Akitoki Houjo had been found innocent, but Sesshomaru had refused to accept him back. Such a weak person was not fit to work for him. So Akitoki moved to another workplace. Kagome's. Obviously, Inuyasha didn't know it, because there was no reason for Kagome to talk about it. She and Akitoki were simply colleagues, until he asked her to have lunch with him. It wasn't a date; it couldn't be, she figured, since Houjo was too sweet and naïve and… well… he was too Houjo. So she accepted. Why not? She was starving and he was paying - what a wonderful combination.
 
The cozy restaurant they were in was simple and casual. They talked about things and she found out a great deal about him, including the recent trial he'd suffered. For a few moments she wondered who the mean brothers that had accused him were.
 
Coincidentally, Inuyasha walked with Aiko just in front of the same restaurant and saw Kagome with Akitoki by accident. Rage bubbled in his veins instantly. They were trying to repair their broken relationship and she was going out with other guys? He tried to think Akitoki was just an acquaintance, but then why had she never mentioned knowing him? And why was she here giggling at his jokes, smiling at him? Without thinking, he dragged Aiko inside and walked intently to their table.
 
At his not-so-tactful cough Kagome's eyes widened, but she smiled. He didn't say anything while she introduced him to Houjo and kissed Aiko's cheek. Inuyasha only looked at Kagome, his daughter's hand still wrapped in his.
 
“This is Akitoki Houjo,” Kagome said.
 
“I know. He fucked us up,” he answered harshly without looking away from her. Akitoki squirmed in mortification next to him, but Inuyasha paid him no mind. Kagome's eyes widened and she looked at Houjo. Inuyasha and Sesshomaru were the two brothers that had `unjustly' accused him? She knew the story instantly - Inuyasha had briefly told her about Houjo without mentioning any names. And the biggest wonder was that she believed his side of the story. Even if Houjo didn't seem the type of guy to do anything wrong, she believed Inuyasha. And it made her smile.
 
She could trust him again after all.
 
Her smile never fading, she looked at Houjo and nodded. “You're a liar Akitoki.”
 
“Aww,” he complained sheepishly. “How was I supposed to know you were Taisho's? And you have a daughter, too?”
 
Kagome's eyes narrowed. “What do you mean?”
 
“I thought things could work out between us,” he said lowly, gesturing between them.
 
Kagome's eyes were wide and horrified, ignorant of Inuyasha's contentment. Judging by her attitude, she hadn't meant for this to be a romantic lunch - just between friends. She had every right to.
 
“You're a pig. I told you from the beginning I was not interested!” Without bothering to listen to his explanations, she grabbed Aiko's hand but found resistance when she started walking away. Glancing behind, she noticed Inuyasha refusing to come.
 
“Come on, Inuyasha,” she said softly and he immediately followed her. Aiko was between them as they walked, each of small hands in her parents'. The sight was adorable - they looked like a family.
 
“I can't believe him,” Kagome commented sourly. “And he seemed so harmless, too.”
 
“He is harmless,” Inuyasha argued. “But that's just because he's so weak and he knows it. He can't even hurt a fly.”
 
“I have to start trusting my instincts,” Kagome said, grateful that Inuyasha didn't say anything against her. “I kept feeling I shouldn't go to lunch with him.”
 
“Then why did you?” The question held a small percentage of hostility, but Kagome was more flattered than anything else. Inuyasha cared. Inuyasha cared so much as to barge into a restaurant and risk causing a scene for her. It was almost like before.
 
“I was hungry,” she said as if obvious. “And he offered to pay,” she continued and giggled. He had to smile at that.
 
“I want cocoa biscuits,” Aiko said all of a sudden and the two adults were happy to focus on anything else than Akitoki. In what was left of Kagome's lunch break they bought Aiko her favorite cocoa biscuits.
 
In the same evening, Kagome stood on a bench right in front of her apartment block. It was windy and rather dark despite the street lights, but she didn't care. Inuyasha was up with Aiko, but she didn't feel like going home. She was tired from work and comfortable there, on the bench.
 
Her thoughts were chaotic and she thought about sorting them out when she felt a cold hand touch her bare shoulder. Her eyes collided with Inuyasha's and she remained still for a while.
 
“How did you know I was here?”
 
“I saw you through the window” was his answer. Then they were silent.
 
After a couple of minutes, his arm was around her shoulders to keep her warm when she started trembling. Soon she was nestled on his lap, her eyes closed comfortably. Aiko was asleep, he'd told her, so they shouldn't worry. They could do whatever.
 
Her breath tickled his skin through the shirt and he told her that so she could move her head a bit to the side. There were stars, many stars on the dark sky and they were all sparkling brightly. The moon was full, romantic.
 
“I love you,” he said unexpectedly, shattering the silence and the magic. Kagome started trembling in his arms from the intensity of his simple statement and he hugged her tighter. She didn't have to say anything, he wanted to say, and she knew it, of course. So she didn't say anything in return, even though he knew the answer. Without having to ask, he knew she loved him too.