Indelible by yukihime

Indelible

Thanks, Marica. ^^ I can't believe the typos but it was written really late.

*sounds of a whip cracking* That's no excuse!

(This is a dramatization. No authors were actually hurt.)

The moon was hidden behind dense fog as the lone figure made it's way through the dense treetops. The target was miles away but within the hour it would be only feet away.

Suddenly, a dark and heavy miasmic stench suffocated the area. The figure clad in black gracefully landed on the ground below, and in the middle of a battle between Inuyasha and one of Naraku's puppets.

A loud scream pierced the air as the would be assassin lunged for the baboon cloak. The short dagger tore through the fur before turning to ash.

A cackle echoed around them and faded away along with the poisonous gas.

Inuyasha growled and turned to the figure, noticing, for the first time, that it was a young girl.

Kagome rushed up, trying to sway the hanyou's anger before she was distracted by the masked girl.

"Who the hell are you?"

"Inuyasha!" Kagome shouted at him as she placed herself between the two. "Hi, my name's Kagome. Who are you?"

A hand reached to pull the mask away from her face, revealing a youthful beauty with black hair and dark eyes.

"My name is Himeko. I am after Naraku because he destroyed my village." The girl turned to Inuyasha as she spoke, "His head is mine."

Kagome laughed a little as she waved her hands back and forth. "Come on, we're all enemies of Naraku, can't we just work together?"

"A ninja does not work with others."

Sango and Miroku rushed up shouting. "Inuyasha? Kagome?"

"Over here," the hanyou replied, as the duo appeared on Kirara.

Kagome turned to greet her friends while they looked at the new comer. After introductions, the group set up camp and Kagome convinced Himeko to stay and travel with them. They continued to follow Naraku's scent west for four days, stopping a few hours before dusk to set up camp.

Less than two hours later, Inuyasha jumped up, startling everyone as he shouted orders. "Sango, Miroku, come with me. Himeko, stay and protect Kagome."

Kagome grabbed his arm. "Wait, Inuyasha, what's wrong?"

He looked to Himeko before replying. "I smell Naraku, but it's not right," he said as he shook his head. "We aren't that close to him, yet his stench is overwhelming. It's probably a trap, but I have to go look."

He put his hand on Kagome's shoulder. "That's why I'm taking Miroku and Sango. Don't worry, Himeko will be here with you."

His eyes went to the young ninja. "Right? I'm depending on you, Himeko."

She nodded. "I understand. I will not fail."

"Good." He turned and the group disappeared into the dark forest.

"Be careful, everyone." However, Kagome's whispered statement was lost on the them.

"Kagome, why don't we go check out that spring Inuyasha mentioned earlier. It will help you relax."

"Thank you, but I don't know if taking a bath is what I should be doing right now."

Himeko smiled. "I understand but you shouldn't worry so much over your friends. It seems that they can take care of themselves."

Kagome laughs a little. "You're right, Himeko. Very well, I'll take a bath."

The priestess stood smiling, feeling a little better, as she rummaged through her big yellow bag for her soap.

"I have a ginger tea that will help you relax and ease stress," Himeko said as she put a pot on the fire.

"You don't have to go to all that trouble."

"It's no trouble, Kagome. You deserve a break too."

"Okay, thanks. Then I'll be at the hot spring."

"I'll bring it to you," Himeko smiled and waved as Kagome turned to corner.

As the water began boiling, she grabbed a cup that Kagome had set out, filling it with ground ginger tea leaves. After, reaching for a spoon, Himeko carefully poured out the boiling water stirring it a few times before she sat the drink down. The girl then dug out a vile from a hidden pocket and unscrewed the lid before pouring the entire liquid into the glass, mixing it with the tea.

Himeko stood and followed the trail to the hot spring, less than ten feet away. She found Kagome slowly bathing with her back to the path.

"Kagome, here's your tea. With a hot bath, it will definitely ease any troubles on your mind."

"Thanks," she replied as she took the cup, sipping the hot beverage gingerly. "Hmmm, it tastes delicious. Very sweet."

Kagome looked at her as she set the drink down on the rock with her clothes. "Aren't you getting in?"

"I'm afraid I can't. I must watch over you."

She smiled. "Don't worry, I'll be at camp. It's only a few feet away. I'll get dinner ready while you finish."

The nauseating odor of Naraku had caught the lord's attention, and had only served to fuel his anger.

How dare that pathetic excuse of a hanyou think that he could just cut across my lands.

Although he did admit that it was curious, his main reason for pursuing the abomination was for the sole purpose of letting off some steam. Part of him realized that there was a slim chance that this really was Naraku, but at the moment, he didn't care.

Suddenly, the smell of a hot spring mixed with the scent of lotus flowers hit him, overwhelming Naraku's hideous aroma. He slowed to a steady pace until steam and rocks came into view as he approached a small clearing. Sesshoumaru stilled, partially hidden from her view behind bushes, as he saw the bathing woman.

The water covered her from the waist down as she scrubbed her skin. Her back wasn't completely turned to him, as he could see the side of her breast before she dipped down, letting the water rinse her flesh.

As she stood, she moved to the nearest rock and reached for the cup. She finished the drink before pulling her hair from the bun. She submerged herself under the surface of the water, completely wetting her raven locks before moving to the surface. Picking the soap bat back up, she proceeded to wash her hair with it.

The demon lord watched as Kagome scrubbed her hair, dipping again to rinse it out then emerging once it was clean and she was done. He waited before moving to the edge of the spring and drawing her attention.

"Woman."

His dark tone scared the girl and she turned, submerging her body in the water so he couldn't see her naked flesh.

"S-Sesshoumaru? What are you doing here?"

Suddenly, a laugh echoed around them.

Kagome moved in an attempt to grab her clothes as Naraku appeared in her path. Before the hanyou had a chance to reach for Kagome, Sesshoumaru was between them. Unprepared and open, the lord landed a the single blow knocking his opponent back several feet. He turned to grab a wet Kagome, wrapping Mokomoko around her for covering before fleeing.

Sesshoumaru was conscious of the wet body in his arms. Of the water soaking into his kimono. Of how her hair smelled like lotus' in bloom on a summer night. But instead, he only chastised himself over such a thought.

Kagome began to feel dizzy in Sesshoumaru's arms. Her head was spinning and her heartbeat was so loud that her ears began to hurt. But all of that faded in comparison to the smell and the feel of Sesshoumaru. Just being by his side made her feel at peace.

She nestled as close as she could, despite the armor, and she told herself it was because of her shaking. Her tremors were bordering on violent. Before she knew it, they were indoors. Where she wasn't sure, but it was out of the cool spring night air.

Sesshoumaru set her on the stone floor, making sure she could stand before leading her over to the side of the bed. He stepped away to grab a blanket from the footboard, then turned to approach a still shaking Kagome. Letting Mokomoko fall, he covers her nude form.

"I-I don't know what's wrong with me." She looked up at him, grateful for his silence. "Sess-Sesshoumaru, I know that you don't like humans but, but can I please stay beside you."

He pauses, unable to give in so easily. "First you will tell me what Naraku wants with you."

"To be honest, I'm not sure. He's been targeting me for a few weeks now." She glanced around the room, still not quite sure where she was.

"Where was my incompetent brother, or the demon-slayer? You should know that it is dangerous to bathe alone."

"Well, I wasn't alone. Inuyasha and the others left to trail Naraku while Himeko stayed with me." She turned her head to the window. "I hope she's okay."

"Himeko?"

"Oh, that's right, you don't know. She's a ninja that seeks revenge on Naraku. She's been traveling with us for about a week now."

"Then why wasn't she with you?"

"Um," her brows furrowed, "she said that she would watch out for me while I took a bath."

"Why didn't you sense Naraku? You're a priestess."

Confusion again crossed her features. He changes gears so quickly, but that was a good point.

"What were you drinking?"

"Drinking?"

He held his tongue. Did she have to repeat him?

"While you were bathing."

Shock and embarrassment grabbed Kagome. "We-Were you watching me?" She squeaked.

"Just answer the question."

She flustered. "I'm not sure. Himeko made it for me. It was delicious though."

He took a hold of her shoulders. She smiled.

"You do not look worried over your friends."

"I-I am. It's just, I feel a little weird, I guess."

He nodded.

"Will you let me stay with you?"

"You do not wish to return to Inuyasha?"

Kagome paused and her face wrinkled.

"Inuyasha? I-I-" she began before passing out in Sesshoumaru's arms.

The demon sighed as he pulled the covers back and placed the woman underneath them. He then turned to call his healers in so they could begin to find out what she drank.

Several hours later, the many occupants that had gathered around the bed filed out of the dark lord's bedroom. Sesshoumaru sighed. They had gotten all the clues they were going to get until she awoke.

Kagome calling out to him in her sleep was unnerving enough, but then to have his healers and advisers hear it was worse. But they spoke the truth, he would have to wait and ask her.

Kagome's eyes slowly fluttered opened. Hurt by the bright light pouring in from the open windows, she buried her head under the covers. The headache she had was quickly fading away. The woman faintly remember that there was something important that she had to be doing, but the sound of an opening door caught her attention as she peeked out to stare at the 'intruder'.

Suddenly, everything around her faded and nothing else mattered.

"Sesshoumaru?"

He nodded as he sat on the bed, a tray of food in his hands. "I brought you lunch. It's past one already."

Her eyes focus on the food as it was placed in front of her then met his.

"I-I want-"

"You should eat first, " he interrupts before standing. "I will send in clothes for you."

She nodded and watched him leave. Still slightly confused, Kagome quickly ate the food before wrapping a sheet around her and washing her face. Another click of the door signaled her clothing and the maid helped her quickly dress.

The green kimono matched her perfectly. White and pink flowers adorned the gown with an overall pattern and it was tied with a white obi. Her hair was also done quickly as the young woman stuck four hairpins, with hanging jewels, to keep it up.

Kagome followed her outside to the gardens where she met Rin. The little girl triggered a flash in the woman and her thoughts begin to cloud before Sesshoumaru appeared by her side.

Her heart jumped and she could feel her nerves twitch.

He thanked the woman and she retreated as the child began talking about all the flowers she wanted to show him.

Kagome watched him as he gave the girl permission to pick them before she scurried off. She smiled as she cocked her head.

"I have a feeling I know her."

He glanced over at her and a strange awareness pulled at him.

He nods. "Her name is Rin, and yes, you have met her before."

Sesshoumaru noticed her eyes glaze over as she began to get confused again.

"Then why did I say that? Why did I say I know you hate humans?"

He placed a hand on her head, then let it fall to her cheek, not sure where this gentle nature in him is coming from. "Don't force it. Your memories will come back slowly."

She smiled, her heart exploding in her chest. "Sesshoumaru, I want-"

"Do not say anything that you will regret later," he interrupts. "Come, let's join Rin."

Kagome dismissed his statement as he pulled her down the hill.

The rest of the day flew by and by the time she realized it, it was time for bed. Her nerves had flared up as she waited all day for a chance alone to speak with Sesshoumaru alone. Once Rin was in bed, the woman was convinced that she could steal a few moments with him.

I want to tell him that I want to be by his side.

"Kagome," he called, startling her. "Come this way."

She nodded and followed him as he retreated the opposite way and then into a room. He was standing by the door when she entered and motioned her to the other room, ordering her to change and return.

Kagome nodded again, moving to the separate quarters. She heard the door shut as she disappeared into the dimly lit space. Seeing the slip on the bed, she changed and returned as requested to find Sesshoumaru with two wine cups.

He turned when she entered and held the glass out to her. "Drink this before bed."

She was still a moment before nervously moving to retrieve the wine from his grasp. "What is it?"

"Something to help you sleep," he replied as he drank part of his.

She nodded as she slowly tasted the liquid, surprised to find it sweet. "Hmm, it's very sweet."

He nodded as he sat his glass down then headed to the bedroom doors.

Kagome looked to her goblet before quickly downing more than half the glass, swiftly emptying hers. Once finished, she placed her cup beside his and then turned to head to the bedroom. After three steps, her world began spinning and she stumbled into Sesshoumaru, who was just inside.

Her ears caught a small chuckle as blue eyes tried to focus on his face.

"I guess I over did it a little."

She smiled at how his eyes seemed to light up for a split second.

"Sesshoumaru..."

He turned to close the door before picking her up. "Let's get you to bed."

She smiled and closed her eyes, letting her head rest against his chest until the cold sheets and soft mattress jarred her out of her drunken daze. Her groggy eyes opened to see him moving away. With quick hands, she latched onto his silk robe.

"Sesshoumaru, do not leave me."

"I was only turning out the light." He moved to cut the lantern off, letting the room drown in darkness, before coming back to bed.

He could feel Kagome's shivering form before his body felt the mattress. Instinctively, he pulled her closer. He was happy that he had decided to put her to sleep because he couldn't take her throwing herself at him.

And especially in such a thin hiyoku.

Even though he knew that she was under a powerful spell, he refused to take advantage of the situation. He didn't want to take advantage of Kagome. His brother's wench.

Her gentle breathing filled his ears.

Yes, he wouldn't take advantage of an unconscious woman.

This Sesshoumaru is not that low.

The demon laid awake for several hours, more than content to listen to Kagome's steady breathing and murmured sentences. Content to feel every time her lungs expanded for air. Content to feel her beating heart as it pumped precious blood through her veins.

Sesshoumaru never knew he could feel that content.

He also never knew when he had fallen asleep under the raven-haired maiden.

His dreams of watching her from afar had turned into something more intimate as he began to tear Kagome's clothes off, and her pleading moans only excited him. His hands ran down her back to come up and cup both breasts, fondling her nipples with his fingers as he devoured her mouth, and whatever else his desired.

The feel and smell of her skin was scorched into his mind.

He could feel warm hands gently stroking him, teasing him. Then suddenly everything went into a hot wet fury.

Sesshoumaru's eyes flew open as the rhythm continued on at a slightly faster pace. His dreams suddenly shattered. He looked down to see his robe open and Kagome greedily sucking on him. His eyes rolled back in his head as Sesshoumaru forced himself to sit up and literally pull Kagome off of his erection.

His wet dream had seemingly turned into reality, and he knew the moment he woke that it wasn't going to be something he could control. She had driven him to the edge and his desire of her had become something that he could not predict. At this moment, Sesshoumaru wanted nothing more than to take her for himself, but the nagging feeling of guilt weighed at his heart, and in the end, he could do nothing but turn away from his own sexual desires.

He knew the potential dangers of such a concoction and never desired to make Kagome his in such a fashion. He had more pride than Naraku.

Kagome's shocked expression hurt him as well. He could see the quiet doubt begin to roll in and he dashed those thoughts away with a crushing kiss.

I will make sure that, even if she doesn't remember, it will be the most pleasurable time in her life.

His weight caused them to topple over and Sesshoumaru took the opportunity to quickly untie her robe, slipping one hand under her panties while the other held her wrists above her head. Fingers found her sensitive spot and circled teasingly before they slid into her.

She was wet and her moan fueled him on, but the demon had to remember to keep a hold on himself. He broke the kiss, golden eyes trained on the woman wiggling under him. She was so feisty, and actually fighting him.

Deciding to push her, he smiled slightly as a third finger found her slick nub and feverishly stroked while his tongue flicked, then sucked her right nipple.

Kagome moaned uncontrollably as he switched to her left breast.

"Sesshoumaru."

She could feel herself going to explode and was desperately wanting her legs free from his weight, squirming under him. He was teasing her so much and she wanted nothing more than to thrash about. She could feel the edge but he refused to let her go there.

"Sess...hou...ahhh...maru..."

A wicked smile crossed his features as he stopped his assault to look into her face. His hand never faltered, only slowed to prolong her ecstasy. Her beauty caught his breath. He licked his lips, dropping to her left ear to run his tongue lightly across her flesh, and letting his hot breath send shivers down her as he spoke. "I'm not done with you yet."

Sesshoumaru could feel Kagome's nipples on his chest as he slowly slid down, releasing her hands while removing the wet undergarment. His fingers lightly played with her as he lingered on the swell of her breast, using his teeth to nip here and there.

Kagome had entwined her hands in his hair, moaning for him to continue his exploration.

Sesshoumaru nipped his way past her belly-button as his bites went over the hip and then to the inner thigh and up. Her scent filled his nose and he didn't hesitate a taste to see if her sweet smell was a lie.

His tongue slowly ran along her wet folds, and with each pass he teased it open, dipping his tongue in and out of her. While one hand played with a breast, the other would aid his mouth. Sesshoumaru was lost in devouring her in her moment of bliss. She tasted like a honey-kissed kinmokusei.

After, the last bits of the drugged wine, mixed with their unexpected pleasure, put Kagome back to sleep and allowed the demon to leave her side to seek satisfaction that didn't come with a high price.

Kagome awoke late that morning to a distant Sesshoumaru beside her. Her cheerful good morning was met with a nod as he quickly dressed himself.

"Sesshoumaru, is something wrong?" she asked as he finished and headed for the door.

"No, I just have a lot of work to do today. Rin will keep you company," he said as the door shut behind him.

Once in his study, Sesshoumaru realized what was wrong, why he had been so cold to her. It was the third day. The last day she would be under the spell. And if he didn't take her while she was under the influence, then their time together would be lost.

Instead her mind would be filled with Inuyasha and the possibility of losing her forever became crystal clear.

Who would have thought that three days would have done this to me?

The least he could do was make it as painless for Kagome as possible. He had a busy day planned for her, and he was sure Rin and Jaken could keep her preoccupied. The problem was getting Sesshoumaru's mind off her.

Unable to concentrate, he took a break an hour before lunch, wondering into the back of the castle where Rin could be seen playing in the gardens. He stood inside the large study watching as Kagome interacted with Rin. After five minutes, he was disgusted with himself and retreated back to his office to work.

At the sound of the lunch bell, Kagome and Rin filed into the kitchen, ready to help take plates out to the large table. Half-way through the preparations, the lord entered and immediately took his seat. They locked eyes and Kagome smiled but he turned away and avoided her gaze.

As they sat down, Rin began the conversation, cutting the air that was full of tension. Kagome was upset and nervous, not understanding what she had done to cause this cold and aloof nature. He barely touched his food and left after only fifteen minutes, saying that it had important disputes between villages that needed his immediate attention.

Though Kagome had her doubts, she didn't speak against him and was left to wonder about the night before, about whether she did something wrong. Although, it was a bit hazy, she knew that they didn't have sex. She felt compelled to tell him that she would never tell anyone, not because she was ashamed but because she didn't want him to be ashamed.

The day dragged on and Sesshoumaru remained secluded in his office, passing up dinner with the same excuse.

When it was time for bed, Kagome was escorted to the lord's room. Determined to speak to him, she set her resolve to not back down.

"Sesshoumaru..."

"Here," he said coolly, "drink this."

"Wait, I have to tell you something."

"It doesn't matter."

"Yes it does! I promise I won't tell anyone what happened," she blurted out, afraid that he would stop her.

When he was silent, she continued, "I know that you must be ashamed of me-"

Unable to listen to her words, Sesshoumaru grabbed Kagome, holding her in a tight embrace. His heart couldn't stand for her to think what she was.

"That is far from the truth."

The demon felt her relax in his arms. He reached for the glass and handed it to her. "Drink this."

She nodded and quickly emptied the small cup. Within a matter of seconds, Kagome passed out cold, falling into Sesshoumaru's care.

He held her close as he whispered in her ear.

"I'm sorry, Kagome. I can't take you like this, even if you are willing."

Picking up her limp form, he settled her in bed then placed himself next to her. He indulged this one night, holding her close and savoring the feel, because he knew that it would be that last time.

When Kagome woke in the morning, she found herself alone and confused. The opening door revealed Rin, who ran in bringing food and shouting good morning. The little girl had instructions to help her dress so that they could go outside to play. She smiled and played along, deciding to wait until she could see Sesshoumaru.

After watching her all day, the lord finally greeted her before lunch. Going out into the gardens, he found her sitting alone as Rin picked nearby flowers.

"I trust you are feeling well."

She looked up, slightly startled.

"Yes, thank you for taking care of me, Lord Sesshoumaru."

A pain hit him in the chest. You don't remember anything. Fate was cruel.

"I-I'm sorry but the last few days are a bit confusing. Could you tell me what happened?"

"I found you wounded in my territory and brought you here. You were with a fever for over three days."

"Three days!?" Kagome cried. "Inuyasha must be so angry."

He grunted. "Humpht, I sent word so he should arrive this afternoon."

Sesshoumaru turned to leave but Kagome's hand shot out, grabbing the sleeve of his kimono; he stopped and moved to face her as she brightly blushed.

"I-I'm sorry, I don't know why I suddenly did that."

Her sapphire eyes glided up to his piercing amber gaze, and Kagome's breath caught in her throat.

Sesshoumaru had to admit that he was curious. Was there something in her that remembered their night together? No matter how brief and unfulfilled?

"What is it?"

"N-N-Nothing, I'm sorry," she apologized and bowed.

He grunted again as he quickly turned and retreated to his room.

The call came before dusk. Inuyasha and his group had arrived and, as usual, the hanyou was demanding that Kagome be handed over.

Like she was a hostage to begin with.

He growled at himself as he dismissed the servant with orders to calm his brother, and a statement that 'she would arrive shortly'.

As the door shut, Sesshoumaru stood and moved to the next area leading to his private rooms. Kagome had not been aware that she had stayed in his quarters, and he did not want her to know. The maid had gathered what belongings she had on her. The bottle of Shikon shards. So the lord saw fit to give it back.

He walked to the long dresser and opened the drawer that contained the desired object. He had initially put it away because he thought that it would trigger more painful memories, like Rin, but Sesshoumaru understood his real reasons.

With the Shikon fragments in hand, he went down the hall to Rin's room to retrieve Kagome. He opened the door to see them across the room on her large canopy bed with books spread out before them.

There was another pain in his chest but he shrugged it off as he entered the room, crossing the distance between him and the woman he was in love with.

"Inuyasha is here. It's time for you to go."

He didn't dare say her name. For once, the demon was afraid he would choke on it.

"Awww, Kagome, can't you stay with me? I promise I'll be good."

Sesshoumaru couldn't speak as he watched his ward plead with her.

"I'm sorry, Rin, but I have a responsibility to fix the jewel I broke. However," she paused with a smile, "I will promise to come back to see you."

Sesshoumaru quickly turned and walked out the door.

His heart was pounding in his ears. All he wanted was to shout 'stay with me' and 'don't go' but it was ridiculous to ask such a thing.

He could hear Kagome's hurried footsteps behind him as they entered the front hall. Sesshoumaru was the first to see Inuyasha with the demon-slayer and monk. The kit and pet cat, who were chasing each other, suddenly stopped when the brooding lord entered. The echoing steps behind him got closer. And just as Inuyasha was about to speak, Kagome emerged from behind Sesshoumaru.

He caught her out of the corner of his eye. Her smiling face. The same one that smiled at him yesterday. And the night before.

Shippou was the first to Kagome, then Inuyasha, then Sango and Miroku. After, all said their thanks that she was alive and, in turn, thanked the lord.

There was another pain in his chest as he watched their reunion and heard their gratitude. Inuyasha's words brought him back to reality.

"What happened?"

"I'm not sure. I can't remember anything."

"What happened to Himeko?" Sango asked.

"Himeko? Who is that?" Kagome asked.

"Don't you remember, Kagome?" Miroku asked. "We left you with Himeko and went after Naraku, even though it was a dead-end."

She shook her head.

"When we got back, the camp was deserted and Inuyasha found your clothes by a hot spring," Sango spoke, hoping to refresh her memory.

Inuyasha grabbed her shoulders, "What the hell happened, Kagome? Were you taken advantage of?"

"No, Inuyasha, at least I don't think so. I'm sorry but I really don't remember."

"How can you say that? It's been over three days!"

Sesshoumaru had to hold himself back as he watched his brother handle Kagome, but he didn't dare open his mouth. Too afraid of what might come out, the lord kept silent.

"Calm down, Inuyasha," Miroku patted his friend on the back. "Kagome is fine. Let's just drop it."

Sesshoumaru grunted, "Humpht, if you were so worried about her, then you never would have left her alone in the first place."

"What the hell are you saying!?" he shouted as he turned to his brother.

"Inuyasha, please, Sesshoumaru saved me." Kagome grabbed onto his haori, trying to restrain the hanyou.

Sesshoumaru wished she would release Inuyasha so he could strike him down. The sight of his dirty hands on her made him sick.

"We owe him our thanks and it's not by attacking him."

"Keh," he grunted as he turned, grabbing Kagome's hand and pulling her to the exit.

Sesshoumaru watched the duo as they neared the exit, the glass jar still burning in his hand. He couldn't bring himself to say her name.

"Woman."

Kagome stopped to face him. Inuyasha's hold on her broke as he took three more steps away from her before he too turned.

"I believe this is yours."

He held out his hand, revealing the fragments.

Her eyes lit up as she quickly approached him.

"Thank you, Lord Sesshoumaru," she replied as she reached to take them.

Their fingers touched and Kagome suddenly felt electrified and alive as she gazed up at him, lost in his golden eyes. For a moment, leaving him felt wrong. Something felt out of place in her heart and between them. Something not finished.

It was almost heartbreaking.

Confusion washed over her features and Kagome felt compelled to stay there with him. She wanted to sort things out. Forever with him.

Inuyasha's voice broke their fragile connection.

"Hurry up, Kagome."

She smiled, unsure of what she had just been thinking.

"Sorry, Lord Sesshoumaru, and thank you so much for helping me," she bowed before quickly leaving with her friends.

He turned, not wanting to watch her go. His delicate ears caught Inuyasha's snide remark.

"Why the hell did you bow and address him so respectfully?"

Kagome's reply was lost to him as the distance grew.

The demon stayed confined to his room until her scent faded three days later. It was ironic, his fate to fall in love with a human woman. And not only a priestess but his brother's wench.

Sesshoumaru was good at hiding his feelings. After all, he had been doing it his whole life. What was one memory.

Mokomoko - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sesshomaru#Attacks

Kinmokusei - http://www.toptropicals.com/html/toptropicals/plant_wk/osmanthus.htm