InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Beat of a Butterfly's Wings ❯ Resolution in the Stars ( Chapter 5 )

[ P - Pre-Teen ]

Disclaimer: Inuyasha and cast do not belong to me. Not in the slightest.

(;-_-;) *tear*

Chapter 5: Resolution in the Stars

In yet another moment of weakness I had thought for a moment at the club that she was, as I had put it, “A problem that I could get used to.” Concerning her moments of weakness had been far too numerous and after that night I came to a decision… We had been at the coffee shop for over an hour and a half talking comfortably, completely unaware of the time when she happened to glance at her watch and panicked since the trains had stopped running over an hour ago. I offered to drive her home and she thanked me, saying that she had to get up early tomorrow because she was volunteering at the soup kitchen. There was nothing overly wrong with that whole situation of course.

Nothing wrong, yet completely set up for disaster. The whole night had been stacked against me to make me weaker than I had been in years; specifically since the day I started going out with Rin's mother.

I walked her to her door, the polite thing to do. I waited as she found her keys, lost in the chasm that was her purse, and somewhere within that space of time the moon broke through the clouds and shone down on us, bathing her in the most glorious light. Finding her keys she looked up at me and as I saw the moon reflected in the twin blue pools of her eyes I felt my heart lurch in my chest. That was when I lost control. That was when wisdom abandoned me and my will failed. Before I knew what I was doing I had moved closer and was leaning towards her pale face, glowing under the white celestial body, intent on the full lips that were begging to be caressed. Blue eyes swirled with surprise and almost too late I returned to my senses and wished her a quick `good night', turning on my heel and going down the steps as quickly as I could without actually running.

I had been weak once with a woman who had seemed kind, who had seemed fascinating, but that had only brought disaster and heartbreak. I wasn't ready to try again. I didn't want to try again. If I learned to let ago again then I was just opening myself up again and in truth my heart wasn't ready for it. I would not be weak again; I had sworn that on the day that my heart was razed by a cold-hearted woman who had been a master of deception. I have not failed so far, and I will not fail now, I decided as I walked to my car and opened the door. My weakness concerning Kagome Higurashi ends tonight. From now I will stay away from her no matter how much the idiotic side of me wants to see her. Eventually it will quiet and I will be safe again…

It took two weeks with an iron will, always reminding me of my promise, before the stubborn thoughts were silenced, finally snuffed out like the last remnants of a forest fire. Rin still spoke of her as much as she always did, but it did nothing to me now. I was finally immune to her charms and finally free from her grip.

I had finally beaten the angel.

“

I couldn't sleep for hours that night. The look I had seen in his eyes as he pulled away haunted me. It had all happened so fast that I couldn't be sure what his intentions had been, but my reaction had been all to clear, showing me exactly what I hoped he would do. My heart had raced and I had grown warm while all thoughts flew from my mind other than thoughts of him and how his body was pressed gently against mine and how his face was drawing painfully near.

I shivered again, just thinking about it. Even now, after all this time when I remember that moment under the moonlight where he had looked like a god from mythos I lose control of myself.

His eyes had been fiery, swirling with an emotion that I would have labeled as desire. That is if he hadn't suddenly stiffened, a strange emotion flashing through the gold, and suddenly pulled away from me with a curt `good night.' That emotion, the last thing I saw in his eyes still bothered me, made my heart feel like someone was squeezing it in an iron grip. It had been a mixture of fear, heartbreak, and anger. I tossed and turned that night, tangling my sheets into a choking nest of silk, and pondered on how I could have made him so upset, what I could have done.

Whatever it was, it must have been something terrible because I didn't see him again. I realized after two weeks had past that I had been beginning to get used to him popping in or running into him at least once a week. Of course it was more than ridiculous for me to even get used to the idea of one of Japan's most famous people coming around to see me regularly. I had nothing to offer him that he couldn't get anywhere else. I knew that but I had, before I realized it, allowed a part of myself to begin grasping at hope, clinging to impossibility. Stupid.

I realized that the next day when Sango dropped by at night for a movie and had asked, eyebrow cocked in mischievous suspicion, “Soo, where did you two disappear to?”

“We went to a coffee shop a little ways away,” I had answered calmly, telling my heart to stop getting all warm at the memory.

“Oooh, a coffee shop, huh?” she teased. “And what else happened?”

“Nothing,” I said, “he just brought me home afterwards.” My voice was nearly shaking by the end as the memories came flooding back with a painful force and in my mind's eye all I saw was a pair of golden eyes with dark emotions swirling in their depths. At the vision I felt my throat constrict and wetness prick my eyes as the feelings of unease that had kept me up for so much of the night came rushing back. I had done something, something wrong. Sitting there on the couch with my best friend I had had the sinking feeling that I would not be seeing the dog demon anytime soon.

“

I awoke with a start when Dad came home late that night, his aura so disturbed that it was like a cloud of impending doom pulling me from my dreaming. I wondered, surprised, when he had left and was about to go out into the hall to meet him when I heard him growl from outside his door, “I will not be weak again.” And then, I knew.

He had gone to see Teacher. This was not a surprise. I had known he was greatly disturbed about her going to the club… But this? No, this reaction didn't make any sense. In other words, my father was being a foolish, stubborn idiot. He was going to shut her out, thinking she was like Mom. He couldn't be more wrong the dolt, I growled as I held my yellow stuffed rabbit Miss Bunny tightly, nearly making her head pop off. Taking a deep breath I relaxed my hold on her and frowned as realization hit me. He was scared. Scared of being hurt again. Grandpa had told me that once, before he met my mother and fell for her, that my father had been untouchable. He had never given any woman the time of day, despite how many women were always throwing themselves at him. That was until he met mom and then as Grandpa put it, Dad came out of the clouds and opened up his heart like all of us normal people. And then slowly, over the period of time they were married, she began to break his heart, one little piece at a time, until there was nothing left but a pile of shattered fragments.

I didn't know what it felt like to have your heart broken by a lover. But I saw it in his eyes often enough, smelled it in his scent, to know that it was probably one of the most painful things living beings could experience. I knew the feeling of being heart broken by someone you had loved, your own flesh and blood, and it was excruciating. But, I suspected, that it was a different feeling than the one that my father had. He had come done out of the clouds, a creature above all the rest, and had trusted a woman with his most valued possession and then she had betrayed that trust and destroyed him. From that day my father had returned to his place amongst the stars and the moon where no one could touch him or see the dusty ashes of his heart. But then a woman, full of love and kindness, had come into our lives and yesterday, when I saw them together, I'd realized that he'd come down out of his fortress in the clouds and I'd never felt happier.

Now, though he was fighting it, his heart beating frantically in his panic as he flew towards the stars and there was nothing I could do to stop him. I felt tears prick my eyes as I hugged Miss Bunny gently and turned my back to the door, staring out the window at the rabbit in the moon and begged the stars to refuse my Father refuge in their icy realm where the heart never truly pulsed.

“

Whatever Sesshoumaru had done during the weekend he seemed to have succeeded in clearing out his mind and I found myself strangely disappointed. I was starting to get rather used to the constant entertainment of a distracted, disoriented Sesshoumaru. In fact I rather liked it. Father seemed just as puzzled by the sudden change as I was and just as disappointed. Of course Father was a closet romantic so he was probably more disappointed that Sesshoumaru seemed to have gotten over his little fascination.

I would kill to know what had happened.

“

“Hey Sango,” I greeted, surprised, as I opened my door to find her on my doorstep Sunday morning.

“Hey,” she greeted shyly and before I knew what I was doing my arm had snaked out, wrapping itself around her waist and pulled her through the entrance. Eyes wide, sparkling happily she stood on tiptoe and placed a gentle kiss on my lips. I've died and gone to heaven. Kagome, you are an angel.

“So what brings you hear on a Sunday morning,” I smiled, both arms now firmly wrapped around her perfect waist. Heaven. “Not that it's not the best way to start any day.”

“I'm worried about Kagome,” she confessed, warm brown eyes darkening momentarily.

“Oh why's that? Didn't they leave together on Friday?”

“Yeah, but she said they just went to a coffee shop and that he brought her home. But when she said it she seemed really upset and her voice got rough like it does when she's trying not to cry. She's not telling me something,” Sango sighed, frowning prettily.

“Well,” I sighed, running a hand over her hair, “As much as we'd like to help we can't do anything, or force anything, if she won't tell us what exactly is going on. I guess for now we'll have to do the hardest thing and just wait and hope for the best.”

“I was afraid you'd say that,” she muttered, lip in a pout. Staring at the fascinating protrusion I decided to put it back in its place. Why couldn't I have tried to do this years ago, I thought giddily as I blissfully covered her mouth with mine.

“

It was July 20th, two days before Rin's 6th birthday. I had just walked through the door at 8 O'clock when a small blur threw itself at me, wrapping its arms firmly around my neck. It dangled there and said happily, “Welcome home Dad!”

Smiling at my daughter I dropped my briefcase sloppily on the floor with a `thud' and wrapped an arm around her small form, giving her some support. “Hello to you too, Rin,” I chuckled. “How is my girl doing today?”

“Great,” she chirped excitedly. “I finished passing out all of my invitations today,” she grinned broadly and I thought it might split her face in half. I was happy to see her smiling for once. For the past couple weeks she had seemed broody and her smiles had been less frequent causing me to worry. Must have just been a passing phase, I thought happily.

“Glad to hear it,” I chuckled, as her happiness caressed my tense muscles and forced them to relax. Sitting down on the couch I smirked, “I finished my shopping for a certain little girl today.”

“Really,” she smirked, “Would I be able to convince you to give me some early?”

“Not a chance.”

“What if I gave you a great big kiss on the cheek?” she smiled wolfishly.

“Nice try, but no dice,” I laughed. “Your Uncle Inuyasha told you he was coming, right?”

“Yup, he said Grandpa was coming for dinner after the party, too,” she laughed. “I can't wait until Sunday,” she squealed, bouncing up and down in my lap.

Suddenly she stopped and turned to look at me, grin still plastered on her face. “Did you get me the new DS?”

“Rin,” I growled in warning, trying to smother the laughter that was bubbling up and begging for release. “You know my rule about the guessing game.”

“

I sat on my black couch holding the little card in my hand staring at it as if I looked at it hard and long enough that it would reveal all of the world's secrets. Screwing my face up in concentration I glared at it harder for a moment before giving up the effort with a beleaguered sigh and set the card down on my lap.

It was from Rin. An invitation to her 6th birthday party. All on harmless white paper decorated with moons and stars. But I couldn't help but suspect that it was far from harmless, nor could I help but wonder if the man, who those stars and moons reminded me of, knew that I had received an invitation. Well, I'll find that out soon enough, I decided, picking up the remote and laying down on the couch, trying to push all thoughts of the card and the man out of my mind.

“

The alarm went off with a screech, reminding me of a crow getting chased away on garbage day, and I groaned, slamming the snooze button before I pulled the sheets over my head. Tired, I moaned. Not enough sleep. Just a little bit mo-

“I see you baby, but stay in your lane. Take it easy. Keep getting at me, but stay in your lane, I ain't easy. My frame is crazy, but stay in your lane. Take it easy. You want me, but be easy. So look upon me, just stay in ya lane~!” my cell blew up, Teairra Mari's voice shattering the silence.

I growled and shot my arm out from under the sheets, grabbing the cursed device and flipping it open groggily asking, “What?”

“Wake up,” Miroku laughed. “It's 10:50 and you're supposed to be at the shelter in 40 minutes, remember? It's Saturday Kags.”

“Forty minutes?” I muttered.

“Yes ma'am. Now up, up, up~!” he said far too cheerfully.

“You're sick,” I growled, throwing the sheets off, testy from lack of sleep.

“You wound me,” he stated mournfully.

“You woke me,” I grumbled. “It's what you get.”

“I know,” he laughed. “Well, see you later dear. Sango and I are both coming today since we don't have anything pressing until tonight.”

“Aight, see you in 40 then,” I sighed, opening the bathroom door as I closed the phone with a click.

Twenty minutes later I was showered, dressed and out the door, a croissant in my mouth as I locked up and flew down the flight of stairs. A short train ride and a jog later I arrived at the shelter, panting slightly. It was one of the reasons I hated the morning so much, I always felt rushed… Of course, that was probably because I could never wake up early enough and consequently was always short on time.

“Hello Ms. Morning,” Sango greeted, grinning wolfishly and waving as she and Miroku stood outside the door. I noticed Miroku's hand on her back and had to bite back a giggle. It had been over a month since they had finally kissed but the idea of them being boyfriend and girlfriend - finally - still made me happy to the point of bursting.

“Good morning to you two, you lovebirds,” I poked, smirking as I adjusted the purse on my shoulder. They both blushed furiously and I laughed. “Alright, let's go play with the babies,” I said cheerfully, shaking my head in amusement as I passed them and walked through the door.

“Good morning Kagome,” Ms. Kimura called cheerfully from behind the front desk. “The kids are looking forward to their walk,” she smiled, her eyes nearly disappearing as her whole face crinkled into a bright smile, dimples on her round cheeks.

“So am I,” I laughed, handing her my purse, which she put under the counter for safekeeping. Sango and Miroku walked through the door, causing the bell to chime again, and Kimura greeted them enthusiastically.

“All right then, let's see,” she chuckled, standing up from her chair and walking around the desk to the door that led to the rooms where the animals were kept. “Kagome, today I'm going to give you the big guys. Sango, you and Miroku can take the rest.” She picked up the massive pile of leashes and handed us each six.

Smiling, with a chuckle I asked, “The big guys huh? It's been a while.”

“Exactly, now you three have fun and see you later,” she waved and walked back through the door.

Sango shook her head laughing and approached the first cage that held a small Corgi, “I love that woman,” she laughed.

“Me too,” I smiled as I began putting a leash on a large Akita named Haru. Looking up I glanced at the Corgi and said, “That's the dog that Rin likes the best.”

“Really,” she asked and she and Miroku looked at the adorable little white and orange dog. “How's she doing?”

“Good,” I muttered, stroking Haru unconsciously as I thought, “She gave me an invitation to her birthday party.” I paused, straightening and tying Haru's leash to the chain link before I continued, “It's tomorrow though and I haven't decided what to get her or if I'm even going.”

Sango's jaw dropped, “Are you kidding me?!” she screeched. “You can't not go!”

“And why not,” I grumbled, unlocking the next cage and watching as Sachi, a little mix, came prancing happily out into the walkway. “I'm not… I think I'm not exactly on the best of terms with her father,” I finally muttered.

“Oh that's ridiculous,” she growled. “Look, I know something happened that night, I don't know what, but it doesn't matter. He likes you, he'll get over it. Now you're going and no excuses!” she nearly shouted. Laughing Miroku gave her a look that said “Breathe Sango, just breathe.”

“Besides,” he said more calmly, “You don't want to disappoint Rin do you?”

“Unfair,” I growled. “Stop playing dirty.”

“I'm just stating the facts,” he replied shrugging and giving me an innocent look.

I glared and grumbled, “Fine, I'll go. But that doesn't fix the issue of the present.”

“You honestly have no ideas?” Sango asked dubiously.

Sighing I said, “Well actually, I'd love to give her Mai,” I gestured at the Corgi. “His time is running out and she loves him so much…”

“Well then why don't you?” Miroku asked, obviously thinking it was simple.

“Because,” I laughed, “I don't know if it would be ok with her father. He told me that they wanted to get one someday but they haven't yet so I don't think I should give her one now.”

“Well, if worse comes to worse you could just keep him,” Sango laughed. “But I don't think it will come to that,” she smiled. “Come on Kags, just get her the dog. You know you want to.”

“I'll think about it,” I sighed in defeat. Really I can't stand up to those two sometimes…

Ten minutes later we'd split ways and taken our respective groups of dogs off into the downtown area for their morning walk.

“

It was noon and I was on my way to eat lunch with a client downtown. Walking swiftly through the crowd of people that always filled the sidewalks at lunchtime I was about two minutes from the restaurant where I would be meeting Mr. Kiruka. A little over a month ago the deal with him had gone south but after a little more persuasion I had managed to set up another meeting with him. That had been a week ago and now today we were meeting for lunch to discuss the final details of the arrangement. I never have been one to take `no' lying down, I thought chuckling when I noticed a large Akita dog, tongue lolling out the side of its mouth happily, zip past, it's leash growing taunt as the person on the other end tried not to budge. With a small sound of surprise I heard the sound of a foot landing hard on the sidewalk behind me. Mind stuttering as a familiar scent, the scent of clover and crown vetch under the sun, filled my nose and immediately clearing my lungs, I began to turn to look behind me. Before I had turned however, a small body slammed into mine as the dog pulled hard to the left, crossing in front of me.

“Oh! I'm so sorry,” a voice, the voice that I had hoped to never hear again, cried apologetically. Closing my eyes momentarily, I hoped desperately that there could be another woman with that same scent and that same beautiful voice. In the end I knew it was impossible though, and fighting the urge to growl in frustration, I turned to face her.

It had been a month and six days since I had last seen her angelic face under the light of the moon.

Not that I've been counting.

“

I was looking at a restaurant window when I felt a sudden jerk on one of the leashes and with a lurch was yanked forward at an alarming rate. With a yelp of surprise I tried to slam my foot down onto the sidewalk but failed to get a good grip on the surface and before I knew it I had been slammed into a very solid, broad back covered in a black business suit.

“Oh! I'm so sorry,” I cried out, my cheeks already growing red as I looked up to try and see the person I had just bumped into so roughly. A lock of long, white hair was the first thing I saw and I nearly fainted. Oh go- no, it can't be… And then with a painful slowness time moved at a crawl as he turned around to face me and when his eyes, those damned gold eyes that were so mesmerizing, looked into mine I lost all the strength in my legs. Before I knew it I was melting, wilting like the evil witch in the Wizard of Oz, into the sidewalk. Dully I noted that I was going to hit the concrete with a, no doubt, painful smack when suddenly a strong, muscled arm snaked around my waist and held me aloft, pulling me upright. Breathlessly I looked up at him and when his eyes caught mine I felt painfully dizzy.

“Are you quite all right?” he asked, voice rumbling up out of his broad chest.

Not in the slightest, I muttered in my head but said, “Oh, yes. Fine, fine. Sorry!” My cheeks grew hot again and I struggled to send messages from my brain to my malfunctioning limbs. Stupid legs, quit pretending to be wet noodles already. Enough is enough. This is more than mortifying!

“I'm sure,” he said dubiously, eyebrow disappearing behind his bangs. “You just enjoy randomly crashing towards the sidewalk. A hobby, Ms. Higurashi?”

I blushed harder and spluttered, “I, I - Hardly! What are you saying? That's just ridiculous!” I shook my head and finished with a growl, “Just tired that's all.” Oh right, and honestly would anyone believe that lame excuse? Not likely.

I finally managed to get my feet under me and as soon as he safely could he pulled his arm away from me like I was burning him or disgusting him. Straightening my shoulders I said in as business-like of a tone as I could manage despite being unbearably frazzled, “I'm terribly sorry about running into you like that. I didn't expect Haru to run forward like that. If there's anything I can do…”

“Hardly. You can't even call that `running into me', it was far too light,” he shrugged nonchalantly. He began to smile, light and warmth moving into his eyes, but suddenly with a frustrated spark lighting in the golden depths he frowned and his face gained a dull expression as he said, voice flat, “But if you will excuse me I have a dinner appointment with a client that I can't miss.”

His strange behavior and the distant manner with which he was treating me made me nearly want cry, to mourn the loss of someone that I had been interested in - only as a friend of course, I thought frantically denying that I had wanted him to be anything more.

Then why does this hurt so damn much, the logical part of my brain queried and I had to resist the urge to growl in my irritation. Collecting my thoughts and forcing my voice to come out smoothly I said, “Oh, yes of course. I hope that you won't be late.” At the end my voice quaked slightly, betraying me, and I clenched my fists, resisting the urge to curse out loud.

With a nod he had started to turn away, but at the change in my voice he stopped mid-step. Turning back to face me I watched as inside the eyes that had grown cold a battle raged. Opening his mouth and closing it with a snap, he clenched his fists and I waited to see what he would do next. Finally after the seconds ticked by, slower than molasses on a cold winter day, he opened his mouth a second time and said in a gruff voice, “Kagome.” I waited for him to continue, feeling a shiver run up my spine at the sound of my name rolling from his lips. He paused and the battle continued to rage in his eyes until something cracked and he smiled, small and barely visible, but a smile at least. “Don't worry - it's fine. Have a wonderful day,” he finished smiling more warmly and then with a gentle nod he turned and was quickly swallowed up by the crowd leaving me feeling like their was a hole somewhere, an emptiness that had never been there before.

For the millionth time since Rin had given me the card I found myself debating whether or not I should go…

“

I had fought a battle against the weaker part of myself and had nearly lost my hard-won resolve completely. I had been doing so well and now, just seeing her, was enough to make my resolution waver. I had even begun flirting with her before I realized what I was doing. Like an ex-smoker picking up, lighting a cigarette, and stuffing it in their mouth before they realized they had even picked it up, I had reacted to her like I had in the past. And then when I had strangled that behavior her voice had wavered and I had stopped. I failed. I couldn't stand to hear her voice like that, knowing that I was the cause, and my armor had cracked. Like a ball on the edge of cliff I could tell that the slightest breeze would knock me over the precipice and into the oblivion that was me freeing my heart. I felt a foreboding shiver run up my spine as I walked as fast from her as I could without actually running and muttered, “Thank God I should be able to avoid seeing her again for at least another month and a half, otherwise I'd be in trouble.” I shoved my fists into my pockets and walked through the turning doors of the restaurant and tried to ignore the looks I attracted.

“

“She's going to bail, I can tell,” Sango grumbled, twirling the straw in her cola violently. “And that just won't do.”

I gave her a look and she huffed, “I know, you said no meddling but this is going too far!” She slammed her fist on the table and the brown liquid shot into the air dangerously, taking on the appearance of a cola geyser. “If we don't do something it's not going to get any better. She's too damned stubborn. And chicken,” she finished glowering at me, daring me to challenge her. Hmmm…Maybe I should just so I could have the pleasure of soothing her ruffled feathers. With a mental shake I straightened my shoulders and took a sip of my iced coffee.

“I suppose it wouldn't hurt just this once,” I chuckled, “So I'm guessing you get to do the honors?” I smiled and her eyes softened, the fire cooling.

“Yes,” she laughed, “I believe I will.”

“

I am going to lay here on my beloved, comfortable couch and read my book all day and not think about a certain male youkai. At all. I had just reached this decision on Sunday morning when my door exploded with the sound of a fist slamming into it repeatedly with startling force. Squeaking and shooting straight up from the couch my book flew across the room as Sango's voice barked loudly from the other side of the door, “Kags! Don't even think about it!”

“Gah! Sango, give me a friggin' heart attack! What?! You want to me die at an obscenely early age now or something, is that it?” I hollered back as I stormed around the end of my couch and stomped to the door in my robe and large fuzzy bear foot slippers. Turning the lock and yanking on the door with great force I glared at her, “What is going on, honestly? And what in the world are you talking about?!”

She glared right back and placed her hands on her hips and growled, “You,” she stuck a finger in my face accusingly, “Are going to disappoint a little girl just because you are too much of a stubborn chicken!”

“I am not! He's the one that -“ I cried, crossing my arms over my chest but she cut me off, shoving me gently back into the house.

“No excuses. You aren't going to sit on that couch and read all day!” She shut the door behind her and gave me another shove, pushing me towards the hall to my room. “Now. You are going to get dressed.”

“No, I am not,” I growled, stumbling as I was the victim of another shove.

Shaking her head she glowered at me and continued, “And you're going to get that dog and then you're going to go to Rin's party.”

“No, Sango, I can't,” I sighed, “You don't understand. I ran into him yesterday. He doesn't want to see me.”

“How do you know that?” she scoffed, and I received yet another push. “Did he actually say that?”

“Well no, but I-“

“Well then there you go. He could have just been having a bad day or something,” she shrugged and pushed me a final time through my bedroom door. “Besides, whatever his deal is - don't do it for him, do this for Rin. She'll be crushed if you don't come.” She gave me a look and an image of Rin, eyes sad when she entered the classroom tomorrow and asked why I hadn't come, flashed before my mind's eye and I cursed mentally. The heavens are far too cruel…

“Fine. I'll go, I'll go, but you have to go pick up the dog. I don't have much time,” I sighed and ran a hand through my hair, shaking off the ends that caught. She smiled and gave me a salute.

“Yes, ma'am! I'll be back right away with the dog!”

“No, meet me at the pet store on 7th street,” I frowned thoughtfully, “If I'm giving her a dog I should get a few of the necessary items too. I'll get dressed and head over there.”

“Alright Kags. See you soon then,” she chirped cheerfully and waved as she practically skipped out of the room.

“Sure, you can be happy,” I grumbled. “You aren't walking into a hellish situation in an hour.”

“I heard that,” she called as she opened the front door, the hinges squeaking loudly, “And quit complaining - I bet you'll have a great time! Bye!” The door slammed and I sat down on my bed, collapsing back onto it and flinging my arms wide as I stared at the ceiling.

“

I stood outside the door of a massive mansion and suddenly felt very small and insignificant. Large house, I thought dully, staring at the elegant lines of the roof and the windows that reflected the warm blue sky and the few downy clouds that floated under the hot July sun. Large house? I thought again. This isn't a house. This is the size of a little hotel. He's either modest or stupid, I grumbled as I attempted to balance the large box I held on my hip so I could ring the doorbell. However, a familiar voice cried out from somewhere near the door and in a split second Rin was at the door, eyes bright and a beaming smile splitting her face as she opened the door with a flourish and cried, “Teacher! You came!”

Sango was so right, I thought with a sigh, I would have wanted to punch myself tomorrow if I hadn't come and had to see Rin's disappointed face.

“

“Teacher! You came!” Rin shouted ecstatically and my ears twitched. A smirk tugging at my lips I turned around to face the door and saw Rin's gorgeous teacher dressed in a pair of dark jeans and a silky black babydoll corset tunic, her long black hair falling around her shoulders in shimmering waves. My brother is an idiot if he isn't interested in this woman, I thought, trying not to laugh as I walked up behind Rin to greet the woman that had thrown my brother's world into upheaval. Rin had delightedly invited her without Sesshoumaru's knowledge - with my encouragement of course. She wasn't the only one who had noticed his odd behavior concerning the woman and the second sudden behavior change a little over a month ago. She wasn't the only one who was disappointed by it. I loved my brother, even though we usually didn't get along, I did care about his welfare and as far as I was concerned living with a frozen heart wasn't a good way to live.

Smiling as I reached the door I said, “Ms. Higurashi. It's nice to finally personally meet Rin's teacher. She always speaks so highly of you.” I reached out and took the large box she was struggling with and bowed slightly in greeting.

“Oh thank you,” she smiled, bowing back more deeply I noticed. “It's a pleasure to meet you too, Inuyasha Taisho.”

“Ah, so you already know who I am. I don't think I'll ever get used to never being able to be anonymous,” I laughed and shifted the box to rest on my hip. “Well, please come in, come in. Everyone else is out back where the pool is,” I gave her a measured look and she blushed as I asked, “You did bring your swimsuit didn't you? With it being a pool party and all.”

“I did,” she murmured, cheeks still blindingly red, “But I don't know if I will go into the pool or not…”

“Nonsense,” I scoffed as I began walking towards the patio door, “You have to. You have no choice,” I shook my head at her and then looked down at Rin who was walking next to us both, grinning like a fool. “Isn't that right Rin, she has no choice in the matter, does she?” I winked and she giggled happily.

“That's right Uncle. No choice,” turning to Ms. Higurashi she grinned wickedly and said, “It's my birthday today so you have to join in.”

Ms. Higurashi groaned and said with long-suffering, “Alright, but only because I love you.”

Rin grinned wolfishly and said, “I love you too. But you are not getting off the hook.” She giggled at Higurashi's disappointed pout and skipped to the patio door. Flinging it wide she shouted, “Dad, Higurashi-sensei is here!” In my lifetime I have only seen my brother grow that rigid a few times. Oh this is going to be fun, I thought giddily as I followed Higurashi outside who had apparently seen my brother stiffen and was now reeking of nervousness and equally stiff.

“

“Dad!” Rin shouted happily, “Higurashi-sensei is here!” I stiffened reflexively and inhaled deeply, catching her scent as it floated on the hot summer air. No, this is not happening, I thought, knee-deep in denial. I did not just hear her say that. Rin did not invite her without my knowledge… But then why can I smell her? the logical little voice in my head asked. Curse it - that conniving daughter of mine.

I turned around planning to nod brusquely and then immediately return to my grilling but yet again, a plan concerning her, did not go as I expected.

“

Oh my gosh, this is more than painfully awkward, I moaned, I want to leave right now! I resisted the urge to flee like a frightened deer and began saying the mantra that Sango had repeated over and over again earlier in the morning, Do this for Rin, do this for Rin, do this for Rin.

He turned around quickly, long white hair swinging out like strands of silk floating on the wind and the movement would have been beautiful if it hadn't been for the ice in his golden eyes. I suddenly remembered that this man was a youkai, a creature that could kill me as easily as I could kill a slug when armed with a bucket of salt. In other words: too easily. Oh my go- he's going to kill me. I'm going to die, was my first ridiculous thought when suddenly a small hand gripped mine, and a little girl's eyes, warm as hot chocolate on a cold winter morning, looked up at my eyes and I began to feel a gentle warmth wash over me.

When I looked up at Sesshoumaru again I saw those cold eyes holding the same look they'd held yesterday, the clashing of fire and ice. And suddenly something held deep within those eyes cracked and seemed to shatter into a million pieces and I shivered despite the heat. I had the feeling that something very significant had happened, but I wasn't sure what. I suddenly felt lost and relieved all at the same time. With the destruction of whatever I had seen in the pools of gold, his eyes flooded with the old warmth and I felt the familiar sensation of all the air fleeing my lungs with a whoosh. Whatever had happened, the Sesshoumaru I knew was back.

I couldn't have been happier.

“

I watched as Dad turned around, obviously completely intent on treating Teacher as coldly and distantly as he would a rival businessman. When he turned his ice-cold eyes on her, viewing her coolly from his throne in the stars, she stiffened and I could smell the fear rolling off of her in palpable waves. Oh this is just ridiculous, Dad, I grumbled and took Higurashi-sensei's hand in mine and smiled up at her, trying to give her some measure of comfort. She noticeably relaxed at the contact and I breathed a little easier, the scent of her fear having been nearly suffocating.

When she looked up at my Dad again I followed her line of sight and I watched the battle that rage inside of him as I held her hand. Get off your throne of ice already Dad, I growled, sending him a look that held a million words. And then the moment I had been hoping for passed and my Dad finally let go of the hurt and the fear and he became the warm person that I knew he really was.

It was the best birthday present I could have gotten.

“

It was done. The fight was over and I smiled at Kagome, the first true smile, for the first time in over a month and it felt unbelievably good. Gah, I have been an idiot, I thought as she visibly relaxed and her eyes filled with sparkling warmth while a beautiful smile pulled at her full lips.

“Kagome,” I smiled, setting down my spatula before walking up to her and Rin and did my best to ignore the smug look on Inuyasha's face. “I'm glad that you could make it! I'm sorry for yesterday, I'm afraid I'm been a bit stressed lately,” I added quickly, suddenly remembering my gruff behavior from the day before.

She chuckled and waved a hand in dismissal and I reveled in her pleasant scent that now lacked the smell of fear. “Don't worry,” she smiled, “I ran into you after all. Sorry about that.”

I laughed and opened my mouth to say something when Inuyasha spoke up loudly, “Kagome - do you mind if I call you Kagome?” He smiled wickedly, glancing at me, and continued, “I'm going to put this over there in the present pile, ok?”

I resisted the urge to walk over and hit my little brother up side the head. Barely.

“Oh,” she gasped, turning around rapidly, her hair flying out in a silky curtain and I found my eyes roaming up and down her figure for a few seconds as she mumbled, “Um, actually,” she hesitated, “If you don't mind I think she should open it now. I know it's early, I'm sorry.” She wrung her hands nervously as Inuyasha gave her a perplexed look.

“You apologize far too much Kagome,” I laughed, coming up behind her causing her to jump slightly, “It's perfectly acceptable.”

“Oh good,” she breathed quietly and I smirked, happily realizing that even despite the time I had spent hiding from her my effect on her hadn't seemed to weaken at all. I didn't realize it but I've missed doing this to her…

“Um, if it's a bad present please let me know,” she murmured quietly hands continuing their nervous movements. Well now that's no good, I thought mischievously and placed my hands on her fragile shoulders, leaning forward to whisper in her ear.

“I think I've already figured out what it is, although you did a very good job disguising the scent… Special odor covering spray I'm guessing” I smiled and barely stopped myself from shivering as my lips accidentally grazed her ear. She however did shiver and I could tell she was feeling a bit unsteady. I resisted the urge to nuzzle into her neck to see how she would react and instead pulled back slightly, hands still resting gently on her shoulders, and watched as Rin took the box from Inuyasha who had a wicked smirk on his face and an impish light dancing in his eyes. I'm going to have hell to pay for this aren't I, I thought, and suddenly I realized that I didn't care. I was feeling better, more right, than I had for over a month. There was something about the air around her; it was just cleaner.

The box tipped slightly in Rin's hands and her eyes grew wide as she turned to look questioningly at her beloved teacher. Kagome obviously gave no sign and with a puzzled look Rin turned back to the box and ripped open the paper with gusto, eager to find out exactly what was inside. With a cry she noticed the holes in the box and that there was no paper on the bottom, leaving several of the holes uncovered and her suspicions were obviously confirmed. Joyfully she tore into the top of the box, pieces of the cardboard flying left and right. I felt Kagome tense temporarily in surprise at the ease with which Rin demolished the thick cardboard and I chuckled, leaning forward to speak by her ear again, “Nothing much can stand between an excited youkai child and their present.”

“I can see that,” she laughed, relaxing. “She certainly is strong. I sometimes forget that since youkai often look almost like humans.”

“Yes, well, we get that a lot these days. We're constantly surprising people by doing things that we've done for centuries. It can make a pretty entertaining game at times,” I laughed, and placed a hand on her head, playfully ruffling her beautiful hair. With a gasp she turned in my grasp, grabbing my large hand with her small, delicate one and gave me a stern look.

“Mr. Taisho, I spent a lot of time on my hair this morning. Stop mussing it,” she attempted to glare at me sternly but the slight twitching at the corner of her lips gave her away.

“Oh really, I didn't realize you didn't follow the current fashion of the bed-head look. It's all the rage now, you know,” I smirked, removing my hand from her head and she released it as if it was scalding to the touch.

“No,” she sniffed, giving off the air of a deeply offended person. “I'm far too old to pay attention to such a juvenile fad,” she declared haughtily and I didn't miss the amusement that danced in her eyes at her own joke. I opened my mouth to remind her that compared to me she was an infant but she interrupted and with a giggled said, “Watch your daughter Mr. Taisho.”

“Sesshoumaru,” I corrected as my lip twitched and I tried not to laugh at her commanding tone. Adorable teacher, thinks she make me do something just because she says so.

“Sesshoumaru,” she repeated, “watch your daughter.”

I turned to look at Rin who I knew was already having her face covered with kisses from a small dog, a Corgi to be specific. As Rin's delighted giggles filled the air and the dog barked happily I felt the sudden urge to do something to show Kagome how much I appreciated the way she always made Rin so happy. An image of her face under the moon flashed across my mind's eye unbidden and my brain temporarily ceased working. I gave her a sidelong look and saw her smiling with full force as she watched Rin play with the little dog, eyes bright and happy. Feeling my eyes on her she turned to look at me, her smile wavering.

“Um, I know it was terribly presumptuous of me to get her the dog… I'm sure you would have liked to do that with her but, well, Rin has always loved Mai since he arrived at the shelter and…” she paused and after running a hand through her hair, bringing some of it over her shoulder, continued, “Well, his time was coming up soon and so…”

“Don't be ridiculous,” I smiled, “It's the best present you could have gotten her. Truthfully I can't thank you enough.” Shrugging I added, “You do realize that now you're going to have to go with me to dinner soon so that I can thank you properly.” I smirked as she blushed, blue eyes widening.

“I-“ she started, her heart beat having picked up in its pace, but Rin's gleeful squeal of, “Higurashi-sensei~! Thank you so much~!” cut her short. Jumping slightly in surprise she turned to look down at Rin's beaming face and smiled.

“Mai told me that he wanted to come live here with you and your Daddy,” she chuckled, crouching down to be level with Rin and the round little dog she held easily in her small, muscled arms. Mai licked Kagome's nose affectionately and the thought, Lucky dog, flew across my mind before I could stop it. I snorted quietly as Kagome giggled and ruffled the hair on the dog's head, in the same manner I had mussed her hair, and said, “Well Mai, you're in good hands now.” Looking at Rin with a blinding smile she opened her arms and wrapped them around the dog and the little girl and squeezed gently, careful not to squish the dog as she chirped happily, “Happy Birthday Rin!”

“Thank you,” Rin murmured and the scent of salt mixed with water tickled my nose as she tried not to cry. Rin rarely cried.

“

“Thank you,” Rin said quietly, her voice shaking slightly and I wondered suddenly if she was about to cry. I'd never seen her do so before and I felt my heart clench uncomfortably.

“I'll go get the rest of the presents from the car,” I smiled, running a hand over her hair, attempting to comfort the small girl that was unbelievably strong in so many ways. “You can open those later with the rest of your presents, ok?”

“Ok,” she nodded, her voice growing stronger. I squeezed her one more time, being careful not to turn Mai into a pancake, and then released them and straightened in one fluid motion.

“I'll be right back,” I smiled, “You should go show all of the kids that Mai's here. I'm sure they'll be excited to see him.”

“Oh right,” she giggled. “I kind of forgot about everyone,” she mumbled, cheeks gaining a slight pink tint as her brown eyes widened. “Whoops.”

“I'm sure they'll forgive you Rin,” her father laughed, “I would just advise against telling them that you forgot about them. That's the trick.” She nodded and with a smile set Mai down on the ground and ran off toward the large clump of kids that stood by the pool waiting for her.

I gave him a sidelong look and teased, “Teaching your daughter to be tricky are we now, Sesshoumaru.”

“No such thing,” he looked at me dully before he chuckled and said, “Now what's this about there being more presents, Kagome? I think you already gave her more than enough - she's already about to blow up from happiness.”

“It's just some stuff, nothing exciting,” I laughed, shaking my head. “I'll be back.”

“I'll come with you,” he purred and I felt a pleasant flutter in my stomach. I don't think I'll ever get tired of that voice, I thought, suddenly feeling drugged.

“Oh ok,” I replied brilliantly before a strange smell wafted over on the breeze. Sniffing I began looking around as I tried to find the source of the scent that my brain dully noted was not a good thing to be smelling. And then it hit me. “Wait - Sesshoumaru, something… Something is burning.”

“Wha-“ he asked, eyes puzzled and then they grew wide and with a muttered curse he turned and flew at the grill where the hot dogs and burgers had turned into rock hard lumps of black charcoal. “Inuyasha, why didn't you take these off the grill?” he growled, sending his brother a glare.

“Hey, you hate it when I mess with your grill,” Inuyasha smirked, shrugging nonchalantly.

“Oh shut up - if the food is getting burned then obviously you can ignore the usual rule, or at least tell me for heaven's sake,” Sesshoumaru rolled his eyes as he deftly began removing the burned meat and placing it on a paper plate at the side of the grill.

“Hey now, you're the full blooded youkai with the superior senses,” Inuyasha laughed, “Why didn't you notice sooner? For crying out loud Kagome noticed it before you! What's up with that, brother,” Inuyasha's eyebrow rose in question and Sesshoumaru growled, dropping the last hotdog onto the plate and turning around with it in his left hand, his right hand brandishing the spatula.

“I was distracted,” he glared.

“Oh really, by what?” Inuyasha grinned wolfishly, crossing his arms over his chest.

Eyes narrowing dangerously as he sent his younger brother a death glare he said through clenched teeth, “By Rin and her present.”

I was trying desperately to hold in my laughter but I failed just as Inuyasha opened his mouth to reply. Bubbling up out of my chest and into my mouth, it pushed at my lips begging for release and finally I couldn't hold it in any longer. Shaking with laughter I sputtered, “Well, um, I'm going to go now,” and with a loud, choked laugh I turned and scuttled for the patio door as quickly as I could.

“

“I will kill you later,” Sesshoumaru growled, pointing the spatula at me threateningly after Kagome had left shaking with mirth.

“You don't dare,” I laughed. “I have way too much blackmail on you now and you know it.”

“I have no idea what you are talking about,” he grumbled as he walked past me, nose in the air. “Would you please run to the store and get some more hamburger and hotdogs. We're a bit short now,” he added as he walked inside, heading for the kitchen.

“Sure thing, Sesshoumaru,” I laughed, rolling my eyes. “I'll deal with you later though so don't breathe easy yet.”

“

I had been playing games with the children for a fair amount of time when one of the boys shouted loudly, “Let's play in the pool! It's so hot!”

The others had of course erupted with shouts of agreement and before I had time to blink twice they were already running towards the house to change into their swimsuits. “Well,” I laughed when I was suddenly left by myself near the pool, “I guess it's time for me to go sit down on one of those comfortable looking chairs.” I'd taken one step when a muscular arm snaked around my waist with surprising speed and a deep voice reverberated up from a broad chest that was now behind me and terribly close. Does he always have to steal my breath? I grumped as I struggled to make the stuttering organs to do their job - skillfully - instead of the half-baked job they were currently doing. Maybe I should go to the doctor and have them checked, I mused and then the sarcastic voice in my mind quipped snidely, Riiight, and we know just how well that would go. Me: I seem to be having trouble breathing properly at times. Doctor: When do these symptoms usually occur? During exercise? Me: No, it only happens when Sesshoumaru Taisho gets close or speaks or looks at me or takes my hand or - Doctor: You idiot. Go home. Yes, it would go something like that, the voice laughed mockingly. Oh shut up, I grumbled and tried to focus on what Sesshoumaru had been saying while I'd been thinking.

“What is this about you sitting in a chair,” he'd asked and I realized with a start that I had yet to reply.

Giving myself a mental slap I spluttered, “Oh, yes. Um, the kids are going to get in the pool now so I-“

“You're planning on not joining in?” he purred, warm breath tickling my ear as he drew even closer.

“Uh, yes,” I mumbled, distracted beyond belief by his presence. I was so distracted that it took me a moment to realize that the few parents that were at the party were staring, many of them with their jaws agape. Blushing fiercely I realized how the whole situation must look. I didn't realize how bad it really was though until I turned around to face him after he said my name.

“Yes?” I asked and that's when I realized that he wasn't wearing a shirt anymore. A quiet “eep” escaped my lips before I could stop myself and my cheeks grew painfully hot as I tried to look anywhere but the perfectly sculpted chest.

Why in the world do they not have him take off his shirt when he advertises for the company, I thought randomly, mind skipping to the strangest place in its dizzy state. Oh ga- what am I thinking?!

“Kagome,” he laughed, the sound bubbling up out of his chest. Don't look, don't look, I thought as I turned my attention to his face. Catching the mirth in his eyes however I quickly decided to look at the house behind him instead. “You act as if you've never seen a man in a pair of swim trunks before,” he chuckled.

Oh I've seen males in swim trunks before but… not anything like this. Plus the models never walked out of the magazine page and wrapped their arms around my waist in front of a group of people. No, this, this is far different, I thought, mind numb as I tried to keep my disobedient eyes trained on the house. I failed for a second and with a hiss of breath I quickly tried to turn my eyes back to the building. This is so not fair, I whined pitifully.

“Of course I have,” I muttered, staring at a window behind him as if it was the most fascinating thing I had ever seen. “Don't be ridiculous,” I finished with a scoff.

“Of course,” he chuckled. “Now about this chair idea of yours. I don't think it's going to work.”

“Oh really? And why is that,” I said, trying to figure out how I could push away from him without touching his bare chest. I was coming very quickly to the conclusion that the only other option was to push against his bare arms which I realized with a quick glance were just as distracting and just as likely to make me completely lose any strength that was left in my already feeble legs.

“Because Rin will be terribly disappointed if you refuse to join in,” he smirked, eyebrow cocking confidently, knowing that he had me.

“I'm sure she won't be,” I bluffed, trying to ooze with a confidence that I of course didn't have.

“Nice try,” he chuckled and flicked my nose gently with his free hand, his other hand still resting on my hip. “Now go change before I'm forced to throw you in the pool like this.” He glanced down at my shirt and I shivered as his eyes took me in before they returned to my face and captured my eyes with golden heat, “It would be a shame to ruin such a nice shirt,” he smirked, arm tightening around my waist.

“You wouldn't,” I spluttered, eyes wide, stiffening in his grip.

“Would you like to test that theory Kagome,” he purred, face drawing torturously close, our noses nearly touching.

“No,” I squeaked, “I'll go if you'll let go of me.”

A low rumble rolled up out of his chest and he closed his eyes briefly before he said, voice low, “I suppose I do have to let go of you… Too bad.” And with that, he pulled his arm back, leaving me with a stuttering heart that seemed to have taken up permanent residence in my mouth.

This man will be the death of me, I thought faintly as I tried to go to the house without falling flat on my face, legs unsteady.

“

I watched from the window of my bedroom as Dad flirted with Kagome causing her to nearly faint. Smiling I pulled my hair out of the tie that held it up in a high ponytail and continued to watch everything unfold. I giggled when he finally released her after nearly touching noses and left her reeling as she tried to walk to the house. I didn't miss the way he watched her as she turned her back to him, nor did I miss the happy glow that his eyes had regained.

I wouldn't forget to thank the stars tonight.

“
“
“

I came out of the house wishing desperately that I was wearing more clothes. I'd never felt self-conscious wearing a swimsuit - in fact I normally wore my bikini but seeing as it was a children's party I had opted for the more conservative black swimsuit. But knowing that Sesshoumaru was going to be seeing me in it I suddenly felt like I was in one of those dreams where you walk out in front of everyone and suddenly realize that you're stark naked. Shoot me now, please. Somebody? Anybody?

“Well Ms. Higurashi,” a mother of one of the kids at the party spoke up from beside my shoulder. “You certainly seem to have caught Mr. Taisho's interest,” she said, eyebrow rising in a calculating look.

I couldn't help it, I laughed. A startled look crossed her face before she rolled her eyes. “Oh don't even try to deny it,” she shook her finger at me, “Any idiot can tell that the man is interested. You don't see him grabbing any other women now do you?”

“Of course not,” I spluttered, “All the other women are married. He would never try to do anything to a married woman.”

“No, of course not, but you're missing the point,” she sighed and then patted me on the shoulder as if I was the most dull-witted human being she'd ever met. “Just take my word for it. You'll see.” Shaking her head she walked away leaving me fighting with myself. I knew it was flirting - I wasn't stupid after all - but I didn't want to let myself admit it because then that would let me have hope again. And the last time I had let hope start to grow he'd avoided me for over month. And that right there was it. He had avoided me, for whatever reason, and that was something we were going to have to discuss someday. I wasn't ready to admit that he'd left an aching hole in his wake, nor was I ready to throw caution to the wind just yet.

It's just safer this way, I thought as I stepped away from the house, trying to pull up every ounce of confidence that I had left. Just say we're friends. Leave the ball in his court, that way if he decides not to ignore it, but picks it up and throws it back at me I can be pleasantly surprised.

When I reached the pool at the deep end I missed the mischievous glint in two pairs of eyes, one brown and one gold.

“

“Dad,” I giggled, coming to the rim of the pool, grasping the tiles in my hands, “Throw Higurashi-sensei into the pool when she gets here.”

“What?” he asked, looking down at me sharply from where he stood at the edge.

“You know you want to,” I said in a singsong voice as I grinned wolfishly up at him, eyes bright.

“Hardly,” he huffed, crossing his arms over his chest. “I don't know where you would get that ridiculous idea.”

“I saw you two,” I stated dully, giving him a condescending look.

“That was nothing. I just enjoy teasing the woman,” I muttered.

“Right, whatever Dad,” I laughed. “Then tease her by throwing her in the pool - it'll be priceless,” I grinned.

“No, I won't,” he glared.

“Well,” Uncle Inuyasha smirked as he pulled himself out of the pool in a fluid motion, water cascading off of his muscled figure to splash on the concrete surrounding the pool, “If you don't want to do it.” He shrugged and then stretched, “I'll be more than happy to do it. She's looking awfully fine in that swimsuit,” he eyed her as she stood by the patio door talking to one of the parents, a lop-sided grin pulling at his lips.

“You will not lay a hand on her Inuyasha,” Dad growled suddenly sending Uncle a look that spoke of endless pain, “Not a finger.”

“Well, hey Sesshoumaru, just letting you know,” he laughed, clasping his hands behind his head, “If you don't do it, I will, despite what you say. It'll be worth it,” he grinned, a little on the lecherous side and I stifled a giggle as I saw that it was just enough to send Dad over the edge.

Just then Kagome arrived at the edge of the pool and as Inuyasha took a step toward her, golden eyes dancing wickedly, Dad sent him a glare that was enough to make Hell freeze over. Trying desperately not to laugh I watched as faster than I expected Dad swept Teacher up into his arms as if she weighed less than a butterfly and with great gentleness tossed her into the water before she even had the chance to yelp.

I noticed smugly that he looked a bit dazed from the sudden loss of contact.

“

I was sitting at home, laying on my couch and reading my book when for the second time that day the door exploded with the sound of a pounding fist. Eyebrow twitching in annoyance as my book was thrown spastically across the room, yet again, I stomped over to the door and glared through the peephole to see Sango and Miroku's grinning faces. Yanking the door open I sighed, “What is it now? And how the heck do you have this uncanny ability to catch me every time I just get settled with my book?”

“Good evening to you too, my dear,” Sango chirped happily, grabbing me by the shoulders, turning me around to face the living room and forcefully pushing me back inside. She continued pushing until we reached the couch and I heard the sound of Miroku shutting the door as a chuckle escaped from his mouth.

“So,” she asked, eyes sparkling, “How was Rin?”

“Fine,” I said, glaring at her suspiciously. “She was really happy about Mai.”

“Good, good,” she smiled as Miroku sat down next to her. “And Mr. Taisho?”

“Oh Inuyasha? He seems to be very ornery,” I answered, willfully ignoring the obvious meaning to her question.

“Yes, he's known for that,” Miroku laughed, “But I believe what Sango meant to say was, `How was Sesshoumaru?'”

“Oh, right. He was fine. You were right though Sango,” I let myself smile slightly, “He was just having a bad day yesterday.” I said it just to throw her a bone even though I knew that wasn't really why. There was another reason he had avoided me for so long but after today it hardly mattered. As I'd decided earlier in the afternoon that was something he and I would have to discuss eventually, but for now I was just happy to have contact with him.

At the thought of contact I blushed furiously before I could stop myself as I remembered the way it had felt in his arms… And then the way he had stopped my retaliatory splashing by - Damn it - don't even go there - that belongs in the file with the other `don't think about this ever again' incidences concerning him. We don't open that file Kagome, I thought frantically as I caught the gleeful glint in Sango and Miroku's eyes. Curse it all but those two don't miss a dang thing do they?! This is terribly unfair, I pouted.

“

“That Kagome is pretty gorgeous isn't she, Sesshoumaru,” Inuyasha smirked after dinner as he leaned against the counter next to me, drying the dishes that I had rinsed. The new dishwasher wasn't arriving until tomorrow so we were doing things the old fashioned way; something I didn't really mind all that much, at least in a normal situation. However, having Inuyasha pushing my buttons every two seconds was far from normal and even farther from being bearable.

“Yes, she is an attractive woman, I suppose,” I muttered, trying to keep myself from rising to take the bait he was dangling gleefully in front of my nose.

“I mean, man, did you see her in that swimsuit?” he asked, shaking his head appreciatively, “I usually don't find that type flattering but boy, on her,” he whistled.

“You're being distasteful,” I mumbled, a warning growl bubbling up in my throat as I roughly scrubbed the metal rack of the grill, taking out some of my pent up frustration on it.

“Being truthful,” he grinned. “It's different. If I was being distasteful I would start talking in detail about the way her brea-“

My fist clenched while a vein throbbed on my forehead as my eyebrow twitched sporadically and the sound of shattering glass filled the room. Curiously Inuyasha glanced over to see what I had broken and with an eyebrow cocked he stated coolly, “You're bleeding and there's glass sticking out of your hand.”

“Yes, I had begun to notice that,” I shot back dryly as I began pulling the remains of Rin's little clear strawberry glass out my bleeding palms.

“Did my talking about her brea-“ he began with a nonchalant expression on his face, but I quickly cut him off, shaking a bloody hand at him.

“Stop talking about her like she's a piece of meat Inuyasha. Stop talking about her period. She's Rin's teacher for crying out loud, it's just inappropriate.”

“Oh, but Sesshoumaru, I seem to remember several occasions today where you obviously didn't see her as `Rin's teacher'. And don't try to tell me I was reading you wrong,” he chuckled.

“You may not have been,” I growled begrudgingly through gritted teeth as I pulled the last sliver out, “But it's no concern of yours.”

“Relax, relax,” Inuyasha laughed, snapping the towel at my back playfully, causing another warning growl to rumble up out of my chest, “I'm just teasing you Sesshoumaru. She's all yours. Frankly I'm so happy just to see actually flirting with a woman. I'm so happy that I'm not even going to try to flirt with her - at least not seriously,” he finished, chuckling as he picked up the grill and began drying it.

“Why should I care if you did flirt with her you idiot,” I muttered, rinsing my hands off as the gashes had already closed completely.

He gave me a knowing look that said it all and I was forced to turn away to glare at the last plate that remained in the sink. I wouldn't admit it yet. I wouldn't admit to my brother, or to anyone for that matter, that yes, my interest in Higurashi was far from strictly friendly. Very far from it…

“

It was Wednesday afternoon and I was sitting in the massive leather chair behind my desk trying to think of what I could do to say thank you to Kagome. Since Sunday Rin had been so happy and she'd spent every moment she could with Mai. That dog seemed to really brightened up her days for the times I worked late, but there was something else too. I didn't know what exactly, but something about Kagome had touched Rin on her birthday and she was happier and more at peace again. She'd been moody and sometimes cross or brooding for the past month, often looking at me sadly or with frustration. It had really bothered me, but when I had tried talking to her about it she'd refused to tell me anything.

Whatever had been wrong, on Sunday Kagome had fixed it and I couldn't have been more grateful. She hadn't just given Rin something that day, though; she'd given me something as well. Every time I met her she was becoming more meaningful to me, more important. I still wasn't sure how I felt about it but I had given up keeping my heart hidden away where no one could touch it. It was too late, she'd already gotten her hands around it and there was no denying the heart that had begun beating again, even though I'd tried for the past month. On Sunday I'd given up, surrendered myself to whatever fate I had that had become tangled up with her. Come what may, I thought with a sigh, leaning back in my chair as I continued to think.

I want to do something for her, something to show her how much I appreciate everything she's done for Rin and I…

And then it hit me. Straightening up in my chair I shouted at the door, “Ayame! I need you to get me a phone number!”

“

“Tokyo Beat Magazine, Business Division, Miwa speaking. What can I do for you?” Miwa chirped cheerfully from her desk. “One moment please, I'll transfer you right away.” Pushing the button on the panel she frowned and turned to me.

“Sango,” she said dully, obviously a bit surprised. “You won't believe who just called for you.”

“Oh really? That would be a first,” I laughed. “We get calls from all sorts of people.”

“Yeah, I know, but this is weird. Pick up the phone already,” she pointed at the flashing light on my desk phone.

Picking it up I said, “Tokyo Beat Magazine, Sango Takahashi speaking.”

A famous, low, rich male voice responded from the other side of the line, “Good afternoon Ms. Takahashi. This is Se-“

“Sesshoumaru Taisho,” I spluttered greatly surprised despite Miwa's warning.

“Oh,” he said a little taken aback. Of course he is you idiot, you just cut him off. Smooth, real smooth Sango. “I apologize for calling you at work, but it seemed like the best place to get a hold of you and I have a favor to ask.”

“Oh, it's no problem at all. I'm just a bit surprised, that's all. You've never called here directly before. In fact I don't' think you've even had your secretary call any magazine for you before - at least that's the belief in the press world. You're a bit notorious for hiding from the press as much as possible,” I chuckled.

“Yes,” he chuckled, “I guess you'll have some bragging rights after this phone call. But I'm hoping that you won't advertise this to the world.” I could feel the dry smile in his voice and I couldn't help but laugh.

“Understood. So what can I do for you Mr. Taisho?”

“I'm planning on doing something for Ms. Higurashi and was wondering if you would be willing to assist me? Are you free tomorrow night? It's the last day of school so I thought it would be a good night for her.”

“Oh yeah,” I tried to not let out a victory whoop and continued, “I'm completely free.”

“

It was the last day of the last week of school before the summer break and I was feeling a bit tired. Apparently the combination of kids eager for freedom and consequently with hyperactivity through the roof, two best friends that continually hounded you without mercy and thoughts of a particular male chasing themselves endlessly around and around the inside of my skull for over four days was enough to sap a significant amount of my usual energy. Big surprise.

I was sitting at my desk, explaining to the kids that there would be no assignment for the summer - I'd always hated it when any of my teachers assigned summer homework. Rubbish in my opinion… At least at the elementary level. I'd finished explaining that and was just moving on to encourage the kids to still keep track of the news and still volunteer during the summer when there was a knock on the door. Puzzled I said a bit uncertainly, “Come in.”

Ms. Suzuki poked her head around the door and with her permanently frowning mouth grumbled, “I need to see you in the office after the bell Higurashi.”

“Oh,” I murmured puzzled and feeling a bit apprehensive. “Understood, I'll be there, thank you.”

“Hn,” was her only reply as she shut the door with a `click!' and left me there in my chair wondering what my fate would be after the bell rang. I didn't have to wait long as it rang less than a minute later and with squeals of excitement the children flew from their desks to their cubbies and then out the door. Following at a much slower rate I picked up my briefcase and headed to the office.

The secretary, Mrs. Kumi grimaced when she saw me at first but then tried to cover it up with a quick smile that didn't reach her eyes. “She's waiting for you,” she muttered.

“Thank you,” I murmured distractedly as I walked past her desk to Ms. Suzuki's office door. Knocking on it I opened my mouth to say the customary polite phrase but I was cut off by a gruff voice on the other side.

“Oh hurry up and get in here already Higurashi,” she grumped from behind her desk.

“Yes ma'am,” I squeaked and opened the door and took a seat in the chair she pointed up at grumpily.

“You,” she shook her finger at me, face twisted in a wrinkly scowl. That's most unbecoming, I thought before I could stop myself and had to resist the sudden urge to giggle at her unhappy face.

“Me?” I asked when she didn't continue.

“You are giving me a headache,” she finally said, glaring at me accusingly.

“I'm sorry, I'm afraid I don't understand… What exactly have I done to give you a headache Ms. Suzuki?”

“At parent/teacher's conference many of the parents complained to you about the volunteer work you were doing with the kids,” she stated dully continuing to give me a look that spelled deep-rooted annoyance.

“Oh, that,” I giggled nervously. “Yes, they said that it was below their child to be doing something like that.”

“Yes, and you haven't stopped Ms. Higurashi,” she accused.

“Guilty as charged Ms. Suzuki,” I sighed trying to stop the simmering anger that was starting to bubble up. “But I fail to see what the problem is? The children haven't complained as far as I know - in fact they seem to enjoy it.”

“That is not the point Higurashi,” she growled, “I wish it was but this is a private institution and we are heavily dependent on the donations from our patrons - most of which are the parents that you seem to have managed to piss off so royally - and only after one semester of school! Was it your goal to have them calling the office several times a week to ask me to stop you? Now they're demanding that you be fired or they'll withdraw financial support.”

“What?!” I spluttered. “Fired? They want to have me fired?”

“Yes, now what would you like me to do about it?” she glowered over her desk at me.

“Well not fire me of course,” I grumbled, glaring back, the simmering anger coming to a boil. “It's just ridiculous.”

“I agree; it is ridiculous. However, their generous funding is key and I cannot deny them forever. I've been fighting them off for a semester, but enough is enough. I think their behavior is ridiculous and completely appalling, but as hard as I try I've been unable to convince them that it's a good thing for their kids. A few of them say that volunteering is fine but not for kids their age. The others are just stuck up beyond belief.”

“But one of the reasons I became a teacher Suzuki-san was so that I could help shape the future and teaching kids to notice and care about the world around them is one of the best ways I know how. Is that not the goal of this school? Is money more important than their future?” I growled, already knowing what her answer would be.

“That is the way the world works Higurashi, I'm surprised you hadn't figured it out already. If we don't have the money to run the school the children won't get the education they deserve - of course they could just go to another school, but I'd rather not have this school get shut down. I don't like this any more than you, hence the headache because I don't want to fire you but…”

She left the sentence hanging and I wanted to yell in frustration, but before I could indulge myself she squirmed in her seat and muttered, “I don't want to fire you nor do I want to give up this program of yours just yet so I've told all of the parents with complaints to come to the school tonight for a meeting.”

“I see,” I mumbled, clenching and unclenching my fists as I began to get the picture.

“You're going to try one more time to convince them that this is a good idea. If it fails then you'll either have to drop or alter the idea or I'll have to let you go. I hope it doesn't come to that so do your best tonight. The meeting is at 8 since most of the parents work late and couldn't change their schedules on such short notice.”

“Alright. What room?” I felt numb; tired and numb.

“Your classroom,” she sighed, “Good luck; you'll need it. Now get out of here and get ready. Convince them that it's as brilliant as I know it is,” she ran a hand over her face suddenly looking more tired than perturbed.

“Understood,” I stood and bowing slightly excused myself and left the room. I'm dead, I moaned. Dead. They're going to eat me alive…Guess I better call Sango and cancel for tonight. I have a feeling this meeting is going to be excruciatingly long…

End Chapter

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Hey everyone, I'm really sorry this is so late - but maybe it can still be like a late Christmas present? \( `-` )/ Anyway, if you didn't read my profile lately here is the reason for the delay: my mom just got diagnosed with cancer so I've been a bit out of it. Since I found out I haven't really been able to think that well and my bf has been worried about me - with it being Christmas and all - so he's been with me non-stop since I found out, trying to keep me distracted by taking me different places in Tokyo. So needless to say I haven't really had the necessary sit down time or the thinking power to write until yesterday and then today the construction people came to replace part of wall that got damaged last month and the behemoths knocked out our bloody internet. ( `-`#) I'm a bit miffed. Ha.

Anyway, I'm done now! Yay! So sorry for the wait and I'm really sorry I didn't get it done in time for Christmas (;'-`;) But, I hope you all like it. I'm going to start writing the next chapter today - I have finals coming up again for the next few weeks so I'm going to try to get an early start! ( `-` )v Thanks for all the reviews - they are really the only reason I'm even done right now - so please let me know what you think of the chapter - hope it's ok ( *_* )d And my apologies if it sucks. ( O_O;)

Thanks again, Peace,

Bloodrain's tears

^ ^

m(='-`=)m

Note: In Japan they see a rabbit in the moon pounding mochi (pounded glutinous rice) instead of the man in the moon - so that's what Rin was talking about when she said `the rabbit in the moon'. Just in case that seemed weird. ( `-` )v

I've looked for the rabbit for quite a while and never managed to see anything other than the man until a few weeks ago on a beautiful night when I was walking over the bridge by the train station. It's actually quite clear if you look at it right…