The Book Nook by Sereia

Chapter 1

The miko had fallen asleep again.

Sesshoumaru's muzzle lay atop one large paw, half-lidded gold belying the protective stance of his body. The weather was not even that cold—the leaves had barely begun to shift—yet she claimed her blanket to be insufficient, sapphire eyes pleading for warmth.

It made no difference to him; his true form was an effective deterrent to those that may threaten the peace her companions had found after their long-awaited triumph over the spider. Far be it for him to deny the miko the simple pleasure of a warm place to read.

She, more than anyone, deserved to be happy. Especially after giving up so much.

Their conversation had been brief, Sesshoumaru unable to communicate in a way humans would understand, but the miko was content to speak for the both of them, reading aloud long after the rest of the pack had descended into slumber.

She'd stifled many a yawn, ignoring his gentle prods against the cover of her strangely bound scrolls in favour of keeping him company. It was not until he'd fully laid down, cocooning her within the confines of his fur, that she finally relaxed, allowing her eyes to shut as her 'book' fell from her lap.

Such an odd creature.

..::**::..

"You did this before."

Kagome glanced up from her book, having to tilt her head considering she was sitting in his lap. "Did what?"

"Read. While leaning against This One," he said, tightening his pelt around their shoulders to stave off the evening chill.

She felt her cheeks heat, the memory of curling against lush fur quickly resurfacing. "You were comfortable."

Sesshoumaru raised an eyebrow. "Would you prefer that form now?"

She shook her head, turning the page even though she hadn't finished reading the previous one.

"It would provide you with more heat. Better protection." He motioned towards the mouth of the cave, freezing rain coming down in droves.

"I like you better this way," she blurted, the soft confession a lot louder than she'd intended, echoing off the stone walls. He didn't say anything, her blush slowly creeping up the back of her neck, but his arms slowly wound around her waist, pulling her flush with his chest before nuzzling her hair.

"We are in agreement, then."