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Asano Sara had stolen her work.

More than that, she had stolen Kagome's entire life in her envy—her boyfriend, her job, and even her friends. Kagome had been lucky to escape the charges Sara had instigated and had done so solely for lack of evidence. At the end of the day, it was her word against Kagome's, and while that might have been enough to convince their employer, InuYasha, and their friends, it wasn't enough to incarcerate her.

Kagome gritted her teeth as she left the courthouse steps. Even her name meant little now; she would be lucky to ever work again after what Sara had done. Her name had been so thoroughly besmirched that she would be considered toxic goods by their entire industry, perhaps even the business world at large. One simple google search was all it would take.

The door to a dark blue SUV opened as she walked past, trying to sort out how she could possibly move forward.

"Get in."

Ito Sesshomaru.

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Kagome did not even hesitate. "No." 

His lips thinned, and she knew why. Sesshomaru had a commanding presence, the one people readily acquiesced to rather than refusing. "It was not a request."

"Good." Kagome shrugged. "Then I don't feel rude for ignoring you." She wanted nothing to do with InuYasha, Sara, or anyone else from before. No one had believed her then, so why bother with anyone now? She wasn't going to get on a podium and proclaim her innocence until her voice gave out now that she'd been cleared of all charges. What could would it do, anyway?

As she turned to leave, he rumbled, "You are innocent of the crimes lain at your doorstep."

It was not a question. It was a statement of fact, one that left no room for nuance nor misunderstanding.

Someone believed her. Tears rose in her eyes then as she blinked them away. Even if it was Sesshomaru, someone finally believed her.

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Kagome swallowed back her words of appreciation. "So what do you want?" She didn't turn around, but though she was appreciative that Sesshomaru believed her, she also wasn't a fool. He never did anything unless he saw the benefit in doing so. 

"You." As her eyes widened, he continued, "Work for me."

"Why?" She slowly turned, searching for signs of deception in his amber gaze as he studied her.

"Does it matter?" He quirked a brow. "You have no job, no place to live, and cannot return home to your family. I am offering you a solution to remedy two of the three."

Her heart clenched. He could not resolve the third problem and they both knew it. Her family ran a shrine; they couldn't afford to bring Kagome back home. She might have been criminally cleared, but the perception was enough. Her family would not welcome her home until she'd made societal amends. "I don't need charity—"

"I do not give it." Sesshomaru smirked. "Though you are hardly in a position to be so selective, miko."

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Sesshomaru had a point, but he had enough of an upper-hand as it was. She refused to give him more. "What's the job?" 

He leaned back in his seat, expression smug. "As you know," he said calmly, examining his painted claws, "I have broken from the family company and begun my own."

More like he'd been forced out, Kagome thought, but then, they had that in common. Sara had done a number on him, too, when he'd refused to pursue a romantic relationship with her. "Yeah, I know." She waited, knowing he wasn't stupid enough to offer her a job there. His new company would never survive the news coverage if that leaked.

"You have your driver's license." It wasn't a question, but she nodded anyway. "Jaken has proven a poor excuse for one. You will start immediately."

She stared. "As your driver?"

"Of course." His smirk grew. "The rest will come in time."

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Kagome considered the offer. She'd gotten her license some six or seven years ago, but she seldom drove. She'd probably driven a grand total of ten times since she'd passed the test, and the last time was three years ago when she'd taken InuYasha in his car to Kikyo's funeral. She was likely beyond rusty, and Sesshomaru was well-known for expecting perfection.

Then again, how hard could it be? Maybe it would be like riding a bike. 

Even if it wasn't, Sesshomaru had to know she rarely drove, so if she failed to meet his expectations, it would be his own fault—

"You are hardly in a position to dither," Sesshomaru reminded her, his expression annoyed. No doubt because she didn't immediately fawn over his generous offer.

"I won't work weekends or after ten at night," she said, shifting her weight, "and I'm not showing up at your home before five in the morning. I need my sleep if I'm going to be alert enough to drive. And," she added when he opened his mouth, "I would like an itinerary of the day's trip at least the day before so I know what to expect. Emergencies aside, of course." His eyes narrowed. "Are you planning to be my guarantor for a new apartment? If so, I—"

"You are quite demanding for someone in your predicament, miko." His expression smoothed out as his lips quirked. "Nonetheless, I find myself in the unique position to humor you."

It was then that she realized whatever Sesshomaru was planning, he needed her as much as she needed him.

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Sesshomaru consulted his smart watch then for the time. "Get in," he quirked a brow at her, "unless you have any objections. If so, you may consider the job offer rescinded."

Kagome was quick to make her way to the driver's seat, noting the keys were still in the ignition. Had Sesshomaru driven himself to the courthouse, or had someone else taken him and then left, like Jaken? "So where are we going?" she asked as she buckled herself in. There was no reason to antagonize him further.

Not when he'd agreed to the terms.

He gave her an address and then pulled his laptop out of his briefcase. 

Evidently that was all the conversation she'd get out of him—for the moment, at least.

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Kagome pulled into the loose gravel driveway of the address Sesshomaru had given her and immediately wrinkled her nose. Okay, yes, she'd needed the job so she'd bite her tongue, but of all the things she'd expected from this job, driving him to his lover wasn't one of them. "We're here," she parked and then quickly added, "sir." 

"You may wait here." Sesshomaru did not so much as look up at her as he set aside his laptop. "Do not bother with turning off the car. I will not be long."

As he left the car, Kagome decided she felt more than a little bad for Kagura—no matter how prickly the yokai could be.

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"You're late," Kagura greeted him, tapping her clawed hands on the front door as she opened it for him. 

"And you are still slow to answer the door," Sesshomaru returned calmly, sweeping inside, knowing it would irk her to be so summarily dismissed. 

Kagura snorted as she closed the door behind him. "Next time, I'll close it on your—"

"You would do well to recall whose money you depend on," he reminded her, turning to face her, "ever since you fled your father's home, Kagura."

Kagura's jaw tightened as she folded her arms across her chest. "Sure, I'm grateful, but I'm not stupid, Sesshomaru. We both know why you helped me, and it wasn't out of the goodness of your heart. Last I checked, you don't have one of those." She handed him a manilla folder. "So take this and go."

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Kagome turned off the audio in the car the moment Sesshomaru left Kagura's home. She noticed the manilla folder tucked under one arm, but kept her silence. "Home, sir?" she said with her best professional smile. The sooner she got him home, the sooner she could see to her own situation.

"Hnn." He inclined his head as he began thumbing through the contents of the folder.

She tapped the touch screen and selected his home. That was one of the few places she'd never been to in all the time she'd first worked with and then dated InuYasha, but, fortunately, Sesshomaru already had the address programmed in.

He remained silent until she pulled into the driveway of his own estate outside the heart of Tokyo, a short distance away from Kagura's home. "We're here. Sir," she tacked on belatedly after she'd parked the car. No doubt she'd be expected to make her own way to a hotel or Internet cafe for the night. "Have a good night."

"Good." He tucked the folder into his briefcase. "Come, miko." He opened the car door and left, evidently expecting her to follow. 

Bemused, she did exactly that. What else could she do?

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"Miko." Jaken's lips thinned as Kagome toed off her shoes in the foyer. He didn't bother to hide his displeasure as he accepted Sesshomaru's suitcase and suit jacket with reverence.

The feeling was mutual, Kagome thought, as she eyed Sesshomaru's personal assistant and, evidently, housekeeper. "Jaken." She'd never had a positive interaction with the imp before, and doubted that was about to change now. 

"We will leave at four," Sesshomaru said, unbuttoning his shirt as he made his way to his own room. "Do not be late."

Kagome stared at his retreating back. He'd brought her all the way here to say that? 

"Well?" Jaken gave her a sour look. "Hurry up, woman." He tapped one foot. "I don't have all day."

She repressed her ire. In her position, she couldn't afford it. "Right. I'm going, I'm going." Irked, she moved to put her shoes back on.

"Idiot woman." Jaken sighed loudly, shaking his head. "Sesshomaru-sama has offered you his most generousness, and yet you would refuse it and leave?"

It was only then she realized he'd intended of her to stay.

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The room Sesshomaru had given her wasn't an opulent one designed to show off his wealth and status, but rather one that appeared both mundane and comfortable. Clearly, she decided, he didn't care what she thought about him so long as she did her work.

Still, it was a place to sleep, and she couldn't afford to be picky right now. 

She sighed, falling back against the bed as she fished out her cell phone. She didn't expect any calls or texts, not after the way everyone had avoided her when the case had hit the news. To her astonishment, she had two.

One was from Kaede, her old mentor at her job—her old job, she reminded herself bleakly. 'Keep your head up, girl.' It was followed by, 'Sesshomaru takes care of his own.' Kagome didn't question how the old woman knew as she typed out a quick response. 

And the other text...was from her mother. No apologies, no requests to visit, just a simple: 'Remember to eat well, Kagome.'

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"You are late," Sesshomaru observed the moment she stumbled into the kitchen the following morning. He did not so much as glance up at her from the cup of tea he was drinking.

Blearily, she caught sight of the economic news he was reading on his cell phone as she passed him to pour her own cup. "Not everyone is a morning person," she groused, uncaring if he didn't appreciate her attitude. 

"We depart in fifteen minutes. I suggest you pack your tea in a thermos." He sipped his cup then as she seriously contemplated taking off her house slipper and throwing it at him.

The only thing that stopped her was Kaede's text from last night. After Kagome had replied, she'd received a terse: You are under his protection now, Kagome. Even Asano has enough sense to understand what that means. 

His protection, callous as it was, was all she had.

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Kagome kept her focus away from the daiyokai reading on a tablet in the backseat. She'd managed a fast shower and, armed with her tea, she could finally face the day off blithely following his commands. "Will you be at the office all day, sir?" She managed a cheerful smile that he couldn't see, anyway.

If he was at the office all day, she'd have the time to make arrangements for a place to stay.

"No." With one word, he dashed all her hopes as she drove to the small company he'd forged after leaving his father's business. And then, before she could ask, he answered a call, speaking in another language she didn't understand.

But not knowing the language didn't stop her from picking up the name Kiyoshi Asano—Sara's father and a diet member.

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Her hands tightened on the steering wheel. Kiyoshi Asano. If not for his actions, Kagome never would have stood in the courtroom yesterday, forced to defend her innocence in light of Sara Asano's allegations. If not for him, Sara's victory would not have been complete.

It took all her willpower not to ask Sesshomaru directly about Kiyoshi as soon as he finished the call. "I will not be making it to the office this morning," he said, pocketing his phone as he rattled off another address. 

"Of course." She pulled over to plug the new address into the GPS. And then she couldn't resist asking, "Something urgent come up, sir?"

"That remains to be seen."

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She sighed as she waited in the car. She'd seen Sesshomaru meet up with another woman—one who was decidedly not Kagura—and she wondered if either woman knew they weren't the only ones in his life. She'd recalled InuYasha saying something before about how Sesshomaru's romantic life was basically a revolving door, but she hadn't entirely believed it.

This woman was yokai, too. Kagome had sensed it.

But she didn't comment as she watched him go into a small shop on a small street away from the main road. It wasn't really her business.

Instead, she pulled out her phone to entertain herself while she waited. When a text came through, she clicked it without paying any attention, only to stop short as she read the text.

Remember, Kagome. You had the chance to avoid all of this.

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Kagome's grip on her phone tightened. She could just picture the smug look on Sara's face as she'd typed out the text with long delicate nails. She'd crafted her delicate persona perfectly. InuYasha had fallen for it—hell, so had Kagome. She'd taken Sara in under her wing after she'd started at the company, certain the younger woman needed her help.

And yet just two years later, Sara had her job. Kagome had never seen the double-cross coming, and she'd been woefully unprepared to defend herself when Sara had lobbied the claim that Kagome had been stealing her work all that time working together. She'd done a thorough job making her case and by making the allegations public, there had been little defense available. 

Even InuYasha had believed the lies by the end of it.

Kagome had a million things she could think of to say to Sara, but she didn't say any of them. She simply turned off her cellphone.

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"Ready for lunch?" InuYasha leaned on her desk with a wide grin. "I got a surprise, too. The Bentley's back." He held up the keys as he jingled them.

Sara dropped her phone in her purse as she tried to push aside her ire that she'd been ignored. Again. She'd gotten everything she'd wanted—well, almost—and she certainly wasn't about to risk that all now. Sure, she hadn't gotten her hands on the elder Ito heir, but that had worked out in the end. InuYasha was far more malleable than his older brother. "I always have time for you," she said, smiling as she locked her computer.

She would not repeat her predecessor's mistakes. Kagome's trust had been her undoing.

"Great." He threw one arm around her shoulders. "Let's go, then. I'm fucking starving." He steered her out of her office, but she let him take the lead.

Sometimes a man just needed to feel in control, after all. It didn't mean she wasn't still holding the strings.

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Sesshomaru was in a foul mood by the time he made it to his office, though he attempted to curtail it. It would not do, after all, to dispose of one of the few employees he had on hand simply to assuage his growing ire.

Kiyoshi Asano was proving quite the elusive man. 

He leaned back in his office chair as he contemplated the matter. He had obtained quite the prize when he'd brought the miko into his plans. Those around her had been fools to cast aside her potential in favor of baseless arguments. Naraku had been preparing his play, but he had been hopelessly outmatched from the start.

She would not leave his sight until his plan had been realized. 

"Jaken," he said as he pressed the intercom button on his phone. He could hear the imp snap to attention, grumbling something at the miko he'd been left to watch as he scrambled over to the phone. "Send Higurashi-san in with the Kato files."

He did not wait for an answer as he released the button. Jaken, as always, would do as he was told.

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Kagome peered through the pile of documents she'd been instructed to sit and review in Sesshomaru's office. His instructions had been terse and to the point, but without clear direction so she had no clue what he wanted her to look for.

Nor why he was having his personal chauffeur review his business records.

"—that is all." He hung up the phone and then turned his attention to her. "What have you discovered, miko?"

She dithered for a moment before she finally shrugged. "Nothing interesting yet."

"Then you will keep looking." And before she could argue, he began dialing someone else.

Sesshomaru was looking for something, she realized. Or someone.

She just didn't know what.

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The phone went hurtling through the office with unusual violence as Kagome jerked her head up from the Kato files. Sesshomaru had always seemed so poised, so polished, and so professional when it came to business.

She had only ever seen him truly pissed off once, and that had been the day he'd quit his father's company to found his own. She'd watched him storm out, his yoki wild and uncontrolled.

That paled in comparison to now. Without her reiki, she would have felt flattened to the floor from its effects. 

"Rough call?" she said mildly, compelled to say something as she watched him scan his desk, likely for something else to throw.

His lips curled back to expose sharp canines. "Quiet."

She shrugged. "Then I guess you don't want to hear what I found in these files, huh?" She probably should not have teased him in the mood he was in, the words slipped out regardless. "Don't mind me, then. Continue to throw things about and break your office. I'll just sit right here and read."

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Sesshomaru snarled at her, which Kagome had to admit was a pretty impressive sight. If she was his assistant, she'd probably be quaking in her shoes. "I'm not a dog," she said mildly, setting the folder beside her. 

"Miko..." he growled low.

"Kagome." She lifted her chin. Okay, fine, so he was her boss and in a way, the only possibility she had at having a somewhat normal future, but dammit, enough was enough. She might have been forced to take the hand Sara had dealt her, but she wasn't going to just lay back and let Sesshomaru walk all over her, too.

His eyes were suddenly a violent golden-red color that, if he'd not been so blatantly furious, would have been rather beautiful. "You will answer me."

"Of course I will." She shrugged off his suspicious look. "I'm just asking you to change how you ask me. If you keep talking to everyone around you like this, you're going to have no one left working for you except Jaken, and he'd kiss your butt if you let him."

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Sesshomaru's fury nearly overwhelmed her for a moment before his yoki abruptly retreated, an odd smile on his face. "If you wish to kiss such a thing as well, miko, you need only voice such a request," he replied calmly with a glint in his amber eyes.

Kagome gave him a dirty look. "The only good thing about your ass is that it's probably pristine," she grumbled. Sesshomaru's appearance was always nothing short of meticulous. "Look," she said as he opened his mouth to retort with a knowing look of his own, "do you want to know about the Kato files or not?"

He sighed as though granting her a great boon. "Very well, miko. Enlighten me."

He was lucky, she thought then, that his usefulness outshone her irritation. The precariousness of her own situation without his aid never fully escaped her mind. "He's been donating to the same charity Asano's wife runs."

The same one that Sara had first attended with InuYasha at the very beginning of their affair.

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Kagome watched Sesshomaru's expression tighten. As she'd suspected, he clearly had cause for complaint against the Asano family as well, and she'd bet every yen she had to her name—not that she had many, not until her first paycheck—that Sara was the culprit there as well.

But if he wasn't going to offer details, she wasn't going to ask. Frankly, she didn't want to know. It would do no good for her to get involved with the Asano family again, not when it had already cost her so much. She had no desire to paint a permanent target on her back and risk losing what little she'd escaped with.

"Well," she said, rising, "if that's all you needed from those files, I'll be outside with Jaken. It's time for lunch anyway."

"Miko." His voice called to her as she reached the door. As she turned, he gave her an odd look. "The files, miko. Leave them."

"Oh." She flushed as she moved to set down the files she'd taken with her instinctively. "Right. I apologize." She set them down. "Have a good day, sir."

He said nothing else as she closed the door behind her. 

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Jaken was summoned almost immediately after Kagome, and when he returned from Sesshomaru's office some ten minutes later, he was grumbling to himself.

"Rough boss, eh?" Kagome commiserated as she looked up from the magazine she'd pilfered from the main lobby to try and occupy herself when Jaken had informed her Sesshomaru did not approve of anyone being on their phones inside the office building. "Sesshomaru's rather moody, isn't he?"

He glowered at her. "It's a great honor to work for such a worthy lord, you foolish woman! You should be grateful Sesshomaru-sama saw fit to take you into his home and honor you with employment." Still grumbling, he settled down at his computer with a loud huff and then gave her another dirty look. "Ungrateful human," he groused to himself, evidently forgetting his prior foul mood with Sesshomaru. "Doesn't appreciate anything."

She sighed and wondered why she even bothered. 

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Kagome found herself summoned back to Sesshomaru's office each day and given a new task, ostensibly to 'occupy her down time' since he was paying her, anyway. She suspected, however, that it had more to do with the fact that no one seemed to want to help him. Everyone else, including Jaken, seemed to give the moody and dramatic daiyokai a wide berth. 

She didn't blame them, either. As she read through another thick manilla folder—seriously, she groused, hadn't he heard of digital files?—she could feel his impatience ride with his yoki. "This is a hostile workplace," she grumbled under her breath. "I should ask for hazard pay."

"Perhaps," he said silkily from across the room without looking up from his computer, "I should begin deducting the room and board from your salary, miko."

Cheapskate. "I just love reading files," she said loudly with false cheer.

She hoped the matcha tea he reached for then tasted like dirt.

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Kagome walked into her office at work, ready to conquer the day, only to stop short when she saw a familiar face sitting at her desk. 

Sara.

Sara rose, giving Kagome a pitying look. "Kagome-senpai," she said, glancing around the office as she took a step back, "please. Don't slap me again. I didn't know you'd get fired." She sniffled for effect as her eyes began to water. "I didn't know this would happen. Please. Please, Kagome-senpai. Believe me."

Like hell Kagome would believe anything Sara ever said again. "Sara—"

"You slapped her?" Sango looked appalled as she rose from her desk to face Kagome. "Kagome-chan, I'm surprised. That's not like you."

Sara immediately covered her face with one hand. "It's okay, Sango-senpai. She didn't mean to hurt me." She began to sob loudly. "She's still my friend. She's just upset right now."

Sango's jaw tightened. "I'm disappointed in you, Kagome-chan," Sango murmured without even stopping to ask Kagome what had happened. She sighed heavily. "If you'd just called me first, I'd—"

Kagome's anger nearly got the better of her. "I didn't touch her," she growled, and Sara immediately took a step back as she cowed behind Sango, who immediately went into protective mode. "She's lying, Sango-chan."

"I'm really sorry, Kagome-senpai!" Sara sniffed again. "I didn't mean for this to happen!"

"The fuck's goin' on?" InuYasha stomped into the office, and Sara dove for him. To Kagome's horror, she watched InuYasha's arms close around another woman as Sara sobbed in his arms about how Kagome was scaring her. He turned, those golden eyes looking upon her with such accusation—

Kagome jolted awake to find Sesshomaru had nudged her awake with his foot. "If you have time to sleep," he rumbled low, "you are not sufficiently occupied." And then before she could protest, he dropped a thick stack of documents down on the couch beside her and ordered her to organize them.

But at least it held the memories at bay.

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By the end of the second week, Sesshomaru had comprised a complete list of donors to the Asano charity. By then, Kagome had refused to help further. She'd like to see Sara and her family be held accountable for their actions, but she'd lost the confidence and drive to do the work herself.

Any time she thought about changing her mind, she read the text from her mother—and the replies that had gone unanswered.

"Come, miko." Sesshomaru paused by the couch Kagome had been lingering on as she savored the last of her lunch. 

She gave her dessert a forlorn look before packing up and following Sesshomaru. She'd stopped asking what he was doing, and only bothered with the GPS location of where they were going. "Where to?" she asked as she opened the door for him.

"Kagura's." He didn't so much as look at her. "Do not dawdle, miko."

She closed the door and hoped his attitude would change after he got laid.

Then again, she thought, eying him as she got into the driver's seat, it probably wouldn't. Some people were just born with a stick up their ass.

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Kagura lit a cigarette as Sesshomaru adjusted his tie. He hadn't even bothered to fully undress, but then, she hadn't expected anything else. Oh, sure, once, she'd thought herself in love with him, but she'd quickly come to realize that Sesshomaru wouldn't return the sentiment.

And Kagura wasn't a woman fond of wasting her time. She'd accept what she could get, and she'd use him as much as he used her. He'd helped her escape her father—for a price, and hell, she'd pay it willingly ten times over if she had to just to be free.

"Put it out, Kagura." Sesshomaru did not so much has glance over at her. "I detest the smell."

"Then leave." Kagura took a long drag of her cigarette and blew a smoke ring at him. "It's my home; I'll do what I want."

"It is a home I pay for," he growled, giving her a sharp look.

She shrugged. "Don't try and pretend you're not getting anything out of the arrangement, Sesshomaru." She took another drag of the cigarette. "If you don't like the terms," she smirked, "go find someone else. That's what I'd do."

It was what she had done, after all. All that she had to do now was wait and see. Perhaps this time next month, she wouldn't need Sesshomaru or his money and protection.

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Sesshomaru's mood had worsened when he returned to the car. Kagome had to bite back the retort about how he didn't seem at all satisfied for a man who'd just gotten laid. Figuring he'd gotten into an argument with his paramour, she offered, "I can notify Jaken to send her flowers." When he gave her a sour look, she quickly added, "Sir."

"There is no need." His lip curled as he buckled his seatbelt. "I will not return."

Kagome pressed her lips together, but she couldn't seem to stop herself from meddling. "It's hard when you have an argument, but these things have—"

"Quiet, miko." His tone was demanding, unyielding. "Return to the office."

She shut up and she drove him back. But for the first time, she almost felt sorry for him.

Almost. Knowing him, he'd probably deserved the breakup. 

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Sesshomaru was still in a foul mood the following day. When Jaken left Sesshomaru's office with the imprint of a stapler between his eyes, she took pity on the imp. "He's feeling a bit sensitive lately," Kagome confided quietly, hoping it would help soothe the imp's ire and his grumbling. "I think he got dumped by one of his girlfriends."

Jaken immediately glowered at her. "He doesn't have girlfriends, you foolish girl," he crowed, his chest puffing with self-righteous indignation. "No female would be stupid enough to cast such a perfect male aside, either." He sniffed. "Any female who is allowed near his intimate person would be grateful and blessed by the honor for the rest of their days!"

Kagome finally understood why Sesshomaru occasionally pelted the imp. He was almost intolerable on a good day, let alone the bad.

Then again, she thought, rolling her eyes as she heard an audible thud from the office, Sesshomaru wasn't much better.

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Kagome found herself sitting across from Sesshomaru in what had to be the most uncomfortable dinner in her whole life. Okay, so he got dumped, but why was she being punished, too? Didn't he have a bunch of girlfriends, anyway?

"I'm sure the crane yokai you're seeing would appreciate this environment," Kagome said brightly, pulling out her phone. "I can call her—"

"No." He did not even look at her as he sipped his shochu. At least, she thought begrudgingly, he'd agreed to pick up the tab for her, too. 

"What about the boar yokai?" she asked almost desperately as she held out her phone. "Or the dragon lady?"

"Put your phone away, miko." He gave her a quick glance. "I have no interest in other company tonight."

"I can leave then—" she began hopefully.

"No." And then he did not elaborate further on why he insisted upon her company and no one else's, despite the fact he probably had women falling at his feet to be with him?

And why did he want Kagome at his side instead?

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"Tea." Sesshomaru said nothing else as he turned to hand Jaken his coat.

She figured he was talking to the imp, so she ignored the request as she slipped out of her shoes and tucked them away in his shoe cabinet.

"Is this how you repay a meal such as the one you consumed?" he asked as she turned to leave.

She stopped, turning to give him an incredulous look. "You want me to make the tea?" 

"Jaken burns the water." Sesshomaru ran his claws through his hair as Jaken glowered at Kagome, no doubt offended she'd been asked over him. "You may as well avail yourself to the task then."

Kagome squared her shoulders. "Then I suggest you make it yourself," she said firmly as she held up her phone. "It's ten-oh-six, Sesshomaru. That means it's after-hours and I'm going to bed." And then, smugly, she turned and went to her room and closed the door firmly behind her.

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She found Sesshomaru waiting for her in the kitchen when she rose the next morning, which, honestly, was weird. It was the weekend, after all. Didn't he have plans? 

"Good morning," she said, disgruntled as she moved to prepare her tea and breakfast. "If you're about to ask me to make you tea again," she added when he opened his mouth with an irritated look, "I'd like to remind you it's the weekend and I don't work when I'm not scheduled to. Ask Jaken if you're incapable of making your own."

His eyes narrowed. "You are quite mouthy for a miko entirely dependent on another's assistance."

She turned to him, empty mug in hand. "You may have purchased my time and my assistance," she quipped, "but you didn't purchase me, Sesshomaru."

"Hnn." He picked up his tablet then, but she swore, if only for a moment, she saw a hint of respect in his eyes.

Chapter Text

She'd intended a quiet day off of leisurely shopping—well, window shopping more like, because she was still living on economy—but somehow, her feet had led her back to her favorite stores.

She should have known better, Kagome admonished herself as she ducked behind a display. Her chest felt tight, aching, cramping, burning—

"I can't believe you got in." Indulgent brown eyes turned on the university student beside her as they walked past the store Kagome had gone inside. "My little boy is going to medical school."

"Okaasan." He ducked out of the way of her exuberant embrace. "It's no big deal—"

"Of course it is, Sota." Their mother was beaming. "Just wait until we tell your grandfather. He's going to tell the whole neighborhood. You'll be hearing about it for months."

Instead of about me, Kagome thought, one hand fisted on her chest. 

But the worst of it, she thought, struggling to breathe then, was that she hadn't even known. 

And she wouldn't have, she thought bleakly, if she hadn't gone to the mall to begin with. 

Chapter Text

The text arrived later from her mother and, for a moment, Kagome almost couldn't bring herself to open it. She didn't want to open it. 

She'd returned home from her trip far too early and shut herself up in her room, burrowing under the borrowed blankets for what little comfort they could offer her. They lacked the warmth of a mother's hug, but then she'd been deprived of that, anyway.

But finally she found the strength to pick up her phone and read the short message: Sota was accepted into medical school. We got the results this morning. Remember to eat well, Kagome.

She let the phone fall back on the bed, but before she could sort herself out, there was a rap at the door.

A demanding, aggressive sort of knock that told her Sesshomaru was waiting impatiently on the other side.

She wiped her face as she mentally cursed his horrible sense of timing.

Chapter Text

"It's my day off—" she immediately began, not even wanting to look up at the daiyokai. InuYasha had never been able to stand the scent of her tears, and she doubted his older brother would handle them any better. The last thing she wanted right then was to see the look of horror—or worse, disgust—on his face.

"I am aware." He sounded almost...amused. "This, however, is not work related."

She glanced behind her. "If this is about the little note Jaken left me..." He'd left her a list of chores so long Kagome figured it was probably revenge for some perceived slight against his beloved lord.

He let out an impatient sound. "I am not interested in Jaken's behavior."

"Okay..." She finally looked up at him and caught his smug expression. "If it's not work related, and it's not about my housing situation or Jaken, then honestly, it can wait until Monday."

"Would you prefer I tell the orphanage then you have no desire to see the children?" he said smoothly as she began to close the door.

Kagome froze, her heart clenching as she thought of the kids she used to volunteer with. "It wouldn't be good for anyone if I go there," she said quietly, all too aware of how important their image was for donations.

It was, after all, the same issue her family had with their shrine.

Chapter Text

Kagome found herself driving Sesshomaru to the orphanage anyway. He refused to accept no for an answer, though he'd callously said she could wait in the car if she did not wish to see them. The children, of course, would be left to seek answers from Sesshomaru.

Day off or not, she'd lost and he'd known it.

If it wasn't for the children, she might have held a stronger grudge, but as it was, the children were also the one reason Kagome could never fully bring herself to hate him, either.

InuYasha hadn't wanted to visit the children with her, but Sesshomaru had gone—once. 

And she'd learned from the children he'd visited on occasional after without her.

Surely such a man—even one with a multitude of mistresses and a bad attitude—could not be all bad.

"If you damage the car driving up the unpaved road, miko, the repairs will be deducted from your salary," he said as she turned down the road to the orphanage.

Then again, she thought, glowering at him through the rearview mirror, maybe not.

Chapter Text

Kagome revised her opinion of Sesshomaru when he got out of the car and walked over to the quietest girl in the orphanage—well, not by much, but still, it was a start. Rin hadn't spoken a single word upon her arrival after the hiking tragedy that had taken the lives of her parents and older brother. A few relatives had passed her around before she'd been left at the doorstep by her impatient aunt, but whatever Rin had endured before she'd arrived, she'd never spoken of it.

But Rin, who never spoke or smiled, smiled a crooked smile for Sesshomaru as he walked over to her and handed her a large gift bag.

A knock on the car door had Kagome looking down at two other orphans, Shippo and Soten. "Did you bring the ninja snacks?" Shippo asked with wide eyes.

"I bet she brought a whole box of crayons," Soten added, nudging the kitsune aside. "I bet I can color ten times better than you."

"No, you can't." Shippo rolled his eyes as the argument began to escalate.

This was it, she thought, closing her eyes and dropping her head onto the steering wheel. She couldn't avoid the kids forever. All she could do now was hope no one learned of her visit. The orphanage couldn't afford to lose a single yen of support.

But as she slowly got out of the vehicle, she wished for the hundredth time she'd never crossed paths with Sara Asano to begin with.

Chapter Text

Kagome hadn't remembered either the crayons nor the snacks, but, it seemed, Sesshomaru had known. In the backseat was a separate bag, one he hadn't taken with him, which contained the promised activities and Shippo's and Soren's favorite snacks. There also was a large box of cookies to distribute amongst the other children.

She glanced over to see him with Rin, silently and patiently allowing her to thread a crown of flowers for the top of his head. 

Maybe, she thought as Shippo and Soten chattered away beside her, it wasn't the worst idea to come here today. 

"I like it when you visit, oneesan," Shippo said quietly when it was time to go. "Don't...take too long to come back, okay?"

His last words were whispered so low she almost couldn't hear them. "I won't," she promised, ruffling his hair. "I'll come back whenever I can."

Chapter Text

Asano Kiyoshi threw the crystal glass of sake against the wall, relishing in how it shattered. His wife, Chinatsu, calmly poured a new one and set it beside him. "Destroying such trinkets will not solve the problem, dear," she said with her usual grace and poise.

Such traits were why he'd married her to begin with, along with her social connections. Chinatsu had come from an old family that had could trace its lineage directly back to one of the great daimyo. Impoverished now, they'd seen the value in an alliance with the money Kiyoshi could bring them.

And her connections, in turn, had secured him a place in the House of Representatives where he now sought to upgrade into the House of Councillors, if not by way of elections, than by way of the national block. To achieve that, however, he required a pristine reputation.

Ito Sesshomaru now sought to tarnish what he'd worked so hard to cultivate.

"His forced removal should have been the end of Ito," he growled, drumming his fingers as he considered the problem before him. The Ito conglomerate was too powerful, the father too astute. If they discovered the truth behind Sara's claims... "He seeks revenge, no doubt." Somehow, her false allegations had failed to ruin Ito entirely, and now it would be up to him to handle the problem.

"So what if he does? Perhaps you underestimated him before." Chinatsu shrugged as she sat down beside him with her own glass of plum wine, swirling the cup in hand with a ruthlessness that rivaled his own. "But you will not make that mistake again, dear." 

"No," he promised her darkly. He would not.

One way or another, Ito Sesshomaru would be destroyed.

Chapter Text

Sara would have thrown her phone against the wall if her boyfriend had not been in the other room watching baseball on TV. She couldn't risk drawing any attention to herself, not now. She had his engagement ring on her finger now, but she was astute enough to know that even that wasn't a sure thing.

Kagome wasn't supposed to end up with her ex-fiancé. She'd expected both of them to suffer, Sesshomaru for the false public rape accusation she'd made after he'd rebuffed her, and Kagome for the theft and other allegations laid at her door. They were supposed to come crawling back to her, begging for her forgiveness. She'd planned to keep Sesshomaru as a pleasurable toy, but Kagome...well, Sara could use a personal assistant once she was the wife of the biggest conglomerate owner in Japan.

But her mother's call had changed everything. Get it done quick, Chinatsu had said after she'd explained the situation. Your father will handle the rest once you've secured the other Ito boy.

InuYasha's father had wanted a long engagement, but Chinatsu had her own suggestion to circumvent that. If Sara became pregnant...well, of course he'd want to move the wedding up. Image was everything to the Ito patriarch. 

She took a deep breath as she set down her phone and moved to her closet for her special lingerie. She'd initially purchased it to seduce Sesshomaru, but she was learning InuYasha was far easier to manage and seduce.

Besides, she thought, sniffing, she doubted he could even get it up for a woman—a problem his brother InuYasha definitely did not share.

Chapter Text

So, Sesshomaru thought, brushing the hair back from his face, the Asano clan was finally making their move.

He set aside the laptop on the sofa beside him without closing the article. So InuYasha and Sara had formally announced their engagement. If any thought it odd that she'd once vied for the elder brother, there was no mention of it by the reporter. 

Of course, he noted with a sardonic smile, that was likely due to the influence of his father combined with that of Sara's father. Neither would want such news made public.

But that, he smirked, was where the fun truly began. Picking up his cell, he made a call to an old contact. "I have something interesting to share," he said, standing up as he rolled down his shirt sleeves. "The usual place. Eight."

He didn't wait for an answer as he moved to inform Kagome he would need her services late tonight.

Koga would be there. He could no more resist a good story than he could an old bone.

Chapter Text

The wolf adjusted his tie with the air of a male who rarely wore them. "Figured you'd still be licking your wounds, Sesshomaru," he said, giving Sesshomaru a long glance as the waiter set two glasses of shochu in front of them, along with the rest of the bottle. 

"No doubt," Sesshomaru drawled, hiding his ire. "I did not call you out for consolation, wolf."

"No shit." Koga snorted as he reached for his glass. "I don't give a fuck about your feelings, anyway."

That was to be expected, given the history between Koga's pack and Sesshomaru's family, but that animosity was also exactly what made Koga so valuable to begin with. "I do not require such." He reached for his own glass, sipping it as he slowly outlined the details.

Koga leaned back, his expression considering despite his bluster. "And why would I do any of that?" He shrugged. "I don't give a fuck about whatever games you're playing, Sesshomaru."

"Perhaps not." Sesshomaru quirked a brow, knowing he had the trump card. "But InuYasha is another matter, is he not?"

The reddened anger on Koga's face was all the answer Sesshomaru needed. 

Chapter Text

For a businessman and owner of several news sites, the wolf was a surprising lightweight. Or, more likely, he had gotten himself worked up after learning of InuYasha's wedding and drunk himself willingly into a stupor once the deal was concluded. Either way, he was no responsibility of Sesshomaru's beyond helping him out the front door so they wouldn't be banned from one of Sesshomaru's favorite establishments. 

The wolf's pack mates could pick him up from there. 

But when Koga spotted the sleek black car, he stumbled over to the open window. "There you are," he slurred drunkenly as he reached out. 

"Do I...know you?" Kagome shifted back.

The wolf slowly blinked, leaning forward and then rocking back as he teetered unsteadily. "Been lookin' everywhere—"

"Wolf." Sesshomaru reached for his door and opened it, forcing Koga to step back. It irritated him to witness such behavior, though he could not quite explain why. "You will desist flirting with my driver."

Koga gave him an odd look. "Huh?"

Sesshomaru ignored him. "It is late, miko." He could see the wolf's companions approach in the distance and, not wishing to be dragged into their antics, continued, "Drive home." When she gave him a curt look over her shoulder, he added warningly, "Miko—"

But even he could not stop the lecture. 

"If you keep on treating what few friends you have like that," she said as she pulled away from the curb, "you're not going to have anyone left, Sesshomaru."

He ignored the rest of her complaint with a silent huff. The wolf was not a companion. Koga was simply an irritant one must endure to achieve one's goals—nothing more.

Chapter Text

"Is there anyone you don't treat like garbage?" Kagome glowered at him in the rearview mirror, having worked herself into up about how poorly Sesshomaru treated everyone—well, everyone but Rin, who he at least showed a little deference to, she conceded. "Because it seems to me like you're an asshole to everyone, Sesshomaru. The wolf, Jaken, your few employees—everyone. It's honestly amazing anyone helps you at all, because frankly, you're a colossal asshole. A prick. A complete toad."

He'd been ignoring her lecture, which only irritated her further, and, in a moment of pique, she threw other insults at him, anticipating some sort of reaction. 

"Cease your histrionics," Sesshomaru drawled without looking up. "I do not pay you to lecture, miko."

Something inside her snapped. She pulled off and parked the car near the Sumida river and got out, taking a moment to breathe at the water's edge before marching over to throw open his door. "Get out. Now."

He blinked as he looked up from his tablet. "This is not my home."

"Nope. It's not." She gave him a tight grin. "But it is your stop." As he stared at her, incredulous, she informed him, "Don't bother looking for the keys, either. They're already at the bottom of the river, along with your phone." Okay, so that bit was a lie, but he didn't need to know that that she hadn't chucked the keys or the phone he'd demanded she charge.

It was time Sesshomaru learned a few hard lessons.

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru stepped forward until their bodies were nearly touching, his golden gaze boring into hers as hints of amber flickered within. "Return the keys, miko."

"No." She lifted her chin, holding her ground even as she was aware that if she moved just a smidge, her body and his would touch. "I told you, they're in the river."

"You lie, miko." He reached for her, lifting her jaw up and making her uncomfortably aware of just how close he was. "I have other ways of returning home if you insist upon continuing down such a foolish path."

Yeah, what was he going to do? Fly? She snorted. "You don't have your phone or your car, Sesshomaru. You might as well concede defeat. Even if I have your keys and your phone, I'm not going to give them to you until you apologize for—"

His eyes suddenly gleamed as she felt his yoki surge forth. Between one moment and the next, golden light enveloped them and, suddenly, they were outside his front door.

And then, as she gaped, he reached into her back pocket and pulled out the keys with a smug expression. "Jaken." He tossed the keys at the imp as soon as the front door was open. "Retrieve the vehicle. The miko and I have something to discuss."

Game, set, match, she thought glumly as she followed him inside.

Chapter Text

To her surprise, when she closed the study door behind them, she found Sesshomaru examining her with a contemplative expression. He didn't appear to be seeking revenge for her admittedly childish behavior, but then again, the thing about Sesshomaru was he was always plotting something. InuYasha had constantly complained about that their entire relationship.

Of course, Kagome admitted, looking back, InuYasha had done a lot of complaining.

"I am pleased," Sesshomaru said then, catching her by surprise, "to find your spirit has not been entirely defeated, miko."

She tried not to gape. Had he done everything on purpose to piss her off? 

"I felt your reiki, miko." He lifted his chin. "Your anger and betrayal accompanied it as it rose against this one. So why, then, do you seek revenge against me but not against her?"

She shut her mouth. In a way, she realized bleakily, he was right. 

And she didn't like it. Not at all.

Chapter Text

"I don't believe in taking revenge," Kagome admitted finally when she realized Sesshomaru intended to wait until he had an answer, ignoring his answering snort. "Okay, fine, you've got a point. I'm angry for what Sara's done. I'm hurt by everyone who believed her. And I'm sad that the only person who seems to believe me is happier pissing me off than he is doing anything to actually help me. But I'm not going to just—"

"By refusing to take action," he interrupted blithely, "you are allowing her to continue her harm, miko."

"Well, what do you want me to do?" she hissed, crossing her arms. "My office didn't believe me, the police didn't believe me—hell, my own counsel didn't really believe me, either! I'm just lucky the judge we got wasn't one that could be bought with Asano money!"

"Do you intend to wallow in your misfortune indefinitely?" Sesshomaru lifted his chin, his expression devoid of any sympathy. "Hnn. That is not the woman I had believed you to be."

Her mouth fell open. "What do you want from me?" she hissed, appalled at his curt manner. She shouldn't have been; she'd known what he was like before she'd ever accepted his help. "If you're just going to stand here and ridicule my life and my choices—"

"I owe you nothing, miko, least of all my sympathy." He gave her a long, level look. "If you cannot even accept that," he turned on his heel, "then you have no value to offer me."

Chapter Text

Kagome stood, mouth agape, for several moments after Sesshomaru had left. She hadn't expected him to actually leave. 

And he hadn't returned, either.

After a few minutes passed, she pulled herself together enough to wander around the garden, trying to sort out her feelings and thoughts storming within her. She was angry, but she also felt hurt and betrayed. Objectively, she could understand that Sesshomaru had no obligation to help her, but emotionally... It was a hard pill to swallow, and it left her feeling bereft.

When she finally returned to the house, no closer to an answer, she found Jaken humming loudly in the kitchen as he wildly stirred a large bowl half his size.

She realized then that he was making cookies. As she slowly walked into the room, she wondered if imps actually ate cookies. "Why are you making cookies?"

The question seemed innocuous, but Jaken whirled on his step stool so fast he nearly tumbled over. "Who do you think you are, sneaking up on me like that?" He waved his spatula in her general direction.

"I apologize, Jaken," she said immediately, taking note of his blush as it softened his features. "Do you…eat cookies?"

He sniffed. "They are for the orphans, you silly human." And then he grumbled something she only caught part of, but confirmed he did not, in fact, eat the cookies himself. 

Her expression softened as she eyed the six bowls of different cookie dough. For all his gruff demeanor, he clearly cared for the orphans she and Sesshomaru visited regularly. "Would you like some help?" 

He sniffed as he turned back to the counter. "Do as you please." Despite the curt brush-off, he didn't attempt to dissuade her from helping. 

It gave her something to do and still feel useful, so she seized the opportunity. Oddly enough, Jaken was pleasant company as she helped him make the cookies—as long as one didn't mind his old-fashioned taste in music and off-key singing.

Chapter Text

Nightmares had Kagome tossing and turning all night, a confused, jumbled mess of dreams she couldn't quite sort out, but when she finally jolted awake, it was still dark out. She was, however, far too awake to go back to sleep and so found herself stumbling back to the kitchen. She needed a cup of tea or two and then maybe—

"I owe you nothing, miko, least of all my sympathy."

Wincing as she recalled the conversation last night, she decided maybe she'd snag one of the cookies. Jaken had grumbled about her having a few for her work last night, but it had been too late for her to even want to try one.

She stopped short at the doorway to the kitchen. Jaken had slid open the back door and invited in a small two-headed dragon she hadn't recalled seeing before. And then, after a furtive glance around, he offered the dragon a cookie before patting its back and mumbling something only the dragon could hear.

She smiled at Jaken's adopted pet. "What's his name?" she asked softly, not wanting to startle the imp again.

Despite her best attempt, however, Jaken still squawked as he whirled around in surprise. His face was bright red as he tried and failed to shield his pet with his own body.

"Don't worry," she said, suddenly charmed by the imp. "I won't hurt him." She held up her hands. "He's really cute, isn't he?"

"Hmph. So even your poor human eyes work." Despite his umbrage, Jaken gave the dragon an adoring look. "His name is Ah-Un." 

"Ah-Un." She smiled. "It suits him."

Chapter Text

"Don't bother coming over," Kagura said by way of greeting when Sesshomaru called her. "I won't be there, anyway."

Sesshomaru leaned back in his chair. So she had meant it when she'd claimed she'd find another patron. "I did not call you for intimacy, Kagura," he informed her, musing over the change in circumstances. If he'd wished for sex, he wouldn't have called. As it was, he found himself disinterested in such with other partners, anyway. He had far greater things on his mind.

She clicked her tongue. "Then why did you call?" she grumbled.

"Your father is backing Asano's campaign and his charity." He smirked. It was time for Kagura to repay her debt in full for his aid when she'd fled, and he intended to claim every cent in kind out of her. A daiyokai's help did not come for free, after all. "I am well aware you are still connected with those inside his organization."

She cursed, but she knew all too well what he wanted. She would fall into line, if only to free herself to live her new life. Once the debt was paid, she intended to have no further ties to him.

If only, he thought then, thinking to the night before, the miko was as easy to manage. 

Chapter Text

Kagome took a deep breath as she pulled another cup and began making tea for Sesshomaru as well as he entered the kitchen that afternoon. It wouldn't be a fun conversation, but it was the mature thing to do. "I apologize, Sess—sir," she corrected without looking back at him as she filled his cup and then her own. If she saw that smug smile on his face, she was positive she'd childishly back out and dig in her heels. "It was immature of me to stop like that last night. And, well, everything else after that, too."

"Hnn. So you are capable of learning." She heard the telltale sound of a chair pulling out as he sat down at the table. 

She winced, fighting back her own ire as she turned to hand him his mug. She'd known he wouldn't make this easy, but dammit, he really intended on making her suffer for her foolishness, didn't he? "I'm capable of reflection and growth," she said, shrugging off his words as best as she could. If only he were capable of that, she grumbled to herself, still smarting over his comment the night before.

"That remains to be seen, miko." He accepted the mug with a grace she could only envy. 

She'd make him eat his words, she promised herself then, if it was the last damn thing she did.

Chapter Text

Kagome almost didn't answer the unknown number. "This is Higurashi," she said, tucking the phone between her cheek and shoulder as she finished making herself a sandwich now that Sesshomaru had taken his tea to his office.

"I know who you are," a female voice Kagome didn't recognize responded. "Are you alone?"

Suspicions aroused, Kagome straightened. For all she knew, Sara was up to something, and if that was the case, Kagome wanted absolutely no part of that. "Who is this? If you don't tell me," she warned, "I'm hanging up."

"I'll take that as a yes," the other woman said, satisfied. "Come to the Sunset Cafe in an hour. We need to talk."

And then Kagome was met with a dial tone as the other woman disconnected the line.

Chapter Text

Kagome eyed the other woman as she sat down across the cafe table. She wore a thin gossamer white veil that covered her face and partially obscured her features, though it did little to hide her white hair that the veil was pinned to. Was she an older woman, Kagome pondered, studying the woman, or was the white hair as natural as Sesshomaru's and InuYasha's?

If the latter, she was no doubt dealing with one of the inu relatives, but if the former, then it was far more difficult to ascertain.

Either way, Kagome wasn't entirely comfortable with meeting someone who clearly didn't want to be identified. She lifted her matcha milk tea and took a sip as she waited.

"You came alone." The other woman sounded pleased, a mature lilt to her voice. "It would seem," she shifted the menu beside her without looking at it, "that Sesshomaru has done his diligence with you, miko."

Chapter Text

Kagome took another sip of her tea, refusing to rise to the baited comment and give the other woman the satisfaction. She'd given up enough ground meeting the woman on her terms to begin with.

After a moment, she heard a faint chuckle. "Perhaps you will do," she said then, leaning back as she waved towards one of the workers behind the counter.

This cafe, however, wasn't one with wait staff, but one where people ordered at the front counter and sat down after obtaining their order. "If you want something to drink," Kagome said, calmly lowering her cup, "then you're going to need to go up to the counter and order it."

"Then I suppose I will have to do without," the woman replied with a tinge of regret.

Kagome almost offered then to go order for the other woman, but caught herself at the last moment. That same self-sacrifice is what landed her where it had to begin with. "If that's what you want," she said, pressing her lips together. 

"This is not about what I desire, miko." The woman leaned forward. "It is about you."

Chapter Text

"Thanks, but I'm not interested." Kagome rose from her chair, grabbing both her cup and her purse. It was a shame to throw her drink away, but she wasn't about to waste her time listening to a sales pitch, either. "Have a good day."

"Oh?" the other woman said archly. "I suppose, then, that you are not interested in recovering all that you have lost."

Kagome paused for a moment, her knuckles whitening around the teacup. "No, I'm not," she lied through clenched teeth. It was a half-truth at best; she didn't want to return to her old position or the friends who'd cast her aside, but she did want to restore her reputation and remove the tarnish against her family's honor.

"Pity." The woman rose as well, stepping past Kagome with an elegance that only enhanced her elegant appearance. She then turned. "Perhaps if you speak to your family, Higurashi-san, you may reconsider. Ah," she inclined her head, "but they are not speaking to you, are they? How troublesome indeed."

And then the woman turned back, walking out of the cafe as though she had not just unleashed a storm within Kagome's heart.

Chapter Text

Kagome's lips thinned and, despite her better judgment, she followed the other woman out of the store. "You spoke to them," she guessed as the cafe door closed behind them. While it was in the public domain that she'd been through the legal system, and while it was known her family hadn't approved of the actions and expected her to make amends, it wasn't public knowledge that her texts to her mother had gone unanswered since she'd received the news on Sota.

The other woman inclined her head. "Perhaps," she allowed, sounding amused. "I was under the impression, however, that you were not interested, miko."

"You play dirty," Kagome ground out, irked as she realized she'd been outmatched—and no doubt had been from the very beginning.

The other woman chuckled. "I do not play, miko, if I do not believe I will win. You would do well to remember that. Now," she added, inclining her head, "shall we have our little talk?"

Chapter Text

Instead of returning to the cafe, the other woman beckoned Kagome to follow her to a small park nearby, one that she'd visited herself from time to time. It wasn't busy at this time of day, so there wasn't anyone else around when they settled down on a bench near a large Japanese maple tree.

"So," Kagome said as she made herself comfortable, "who are you, and what do you want? And," she added when the other woman began to speak, "don't tell me this is all about me, either. You don't strike me as someone with an altruistic streak."

"Of course not." The woman inclined her head. "I am Fuji Shobu."

The name meant nothing to Kagome; she didn't recognize it and wasn't even sure if it was the woman's true name. She had the feeling, however, that if she saw the person beneath the veil, she'd make a connection. Why else would Shobu wear the veil to begin with? "And how do you know my mother?"

"The better question," Shobu replied, waving one manicured hand, "would be to ask, Higurashi-san, how your mother knows me."

Chapter Text

"I'm not interested in playing games, Fuji-san." Kagome lifted her chin, hearing the irritation bite her words. 

Shobu let out an aggrieved sigh. "Speaking with you is as tedious as it is speaking with my own son," she lamented, but she hardly sounded genuinely put out. "Let us just say that a favor is owed and thus requires repayment, and I am here to ensure the terms are met."

"My mother owes you a debt?" Kagome gave Shobu a dubious look. Her mother wasn't the time to make backroom deals, nor was she the type to allow a debt to go unpaid if one was truly owed. 

"Not quite." Shobu rested her hands on her legs, her pose both demure and regal. "It is a debt owed to your father and thus is inheritable by you, Higurashi-san. That is why I am here." She shrugged one shoulder. "Consider me a fairy godmother of a sort, here to grant your wish. Just one," she cautioned, holding up a hand. "So tell me, what is it you desire so that I may be rid of this troublesome debt?"

Chapter Text

If she'd met Shobu at the beginning of her troubles with Sara Asano, Kagone knew what she'd have asked for. Now, however, she only shrugged. "I don't need anything, Fuji-san," she said, because it would have been meaningless. 

Even if Shobu could clear her name publicly, it wouldn't change the minds of those who'd turned their backs on her, and it wouldn't undo the damage that had already been done.

"Bah." Shobu waved a hand. "Everyone wishes for something."

"I didn't say I didn't have a wish," Kagome clarified, lifting her chin. "But it doesn't mean anything if I don't obtain it on my own merit."

Shobu was silent for a moment. "I suppose I can respect that," she grudgingly conceded. "However, there is no harm in seeking assistance, miko, when the task becomes too great."

"I'll keep that in mind," Kagome promised as she accepted the handwritten card with Fuji Shobu's name and number. She doubted, however, that she would ever use it.

Chapter Text

Kagome returned to find Sesshomaru sitting in the living room, a cup of tea in one hand as he flipped through a book with the other. Upon a second glance, however, she realized it wasn't a book but a folder of paperwork. No doubt he was working on his plan for revenge, she thought, shaking her head. "You really need a hobby," she muttered, turning towards the kitchen for a snack.

She should have stopped by the cafe before heading home, she thought, disgruntled, but she'd been too aggravated by her conversation with Shobu to think about that. 

"Vengeance is a perfectly acceptable hobby," Sesshomaru returned without looking up from the files he was perusing. "Do not set your purse down, miko. We are leaving."

She turned back to him, her ire sparking along with a hint of her reiki. "It's Sunday," she said through gritted teeth. "I'm off today."

He calmly set his folder in the briefcase nearby and snapped it closed. "It was not a request," he replied mildly. "As it happens, miko, this involves you. The old woman will not speak unless you are present."

Chapter Text

For the second time that day, Kagome found herself sitting at a cafe, though this time, at least, it was across a familiar face.

Kaede. She should have known.

"How are you settling in, girl?" Kaede leaned back, sipping her genmaicha tea. She eyed Sesshomaru, brow quirking. "Is the young master treating you well?"

Young master? Kagome turned to Sesshomaru, surprised to hear him addressed as such when he'd been effectively disowned by his father, but his expression remained impassive. "Well enough," she replied cautiously, giving her old mentor a warm smile. 

"Tch." Kaede took another sip from his tea. "I expect the truth, Kagome," she rebuked severely.

Kagome flinched, but her expression paled even more when she opened her mouth to answer and saw Sango walk into the cafe along with several of her other coworkers. Sara Asano was amongst them, giggling.

It was only then that she recalled that Sango had often brought everyone here for lunch.

Chapter Text

Kagome felt her stomach roll, a queasiness sweeping over her that had the bile rising in her throat as she swallowed. She reached for her tea, taking several large gulps as her body trembled and the tears threatened to well over.

She'd thought she was past everything, that she'd accepted how much she'd lost at Sara's hands. Seeing her now, however, in front of her, was almost more than she could bear. Her every instinct practically hollered at her to jump up, to run, to flee. She couldn't think, couldn't breathe—

Sara's smug grin when she spotted Kagome was nearly enough to undo her tenuous hold on her composure. A moment later, Sara looked away and promptly burst into loud tears as Sango and the others rushed to console her. It only took one gesture of Sara's hand towards Kagome to lay bare Sara's plan.

Kagome abruptly rose. "Let's head somewhere else—" she began, desperate to get away. 

"If you leave now, miko, you will have conceded defeat." Sesshomaru took a sip of his tea before setting the cup down to stare Kagome down. "Do not give her that satisfaction."

Chapter Text

Kagome shook her head. She wasn't ready for this—not emotionally, not physically—and the sight of Sara sobbing as she gestured towards Kagome and then towards Sesshomaru with their friends crowded around her, offering support, only made her feel more beaten down. Those same friends hadn't offered the same support in the face of Sara's accusations, nor the trial hearing that had followed. "I can't," she whispered, her voice cracking as her body trembled. "You don't understand. I can't do this—"

"Do you truly believe not? I had thought you wiser than that, Kagome." Kaede calmly set aside her cup as Kagome flinched at the rebuke—and the reminder. "Sit, girl, lest you attract undesired attention."

Kagome sat without thinking, instinctively responding to her old mentor's commands, but it was a battle to keep herself in her chair. 

All the while, Sara's sobs grew louder, attracting the attention of most of the cafe's customers and staff.

"What a show." Kaede clicked her tongue. "If only she put half as much effort into her job."

"She will not have it for long," Sesshomaru promised darkly as Sango moved to approach the table. "None of them will."

Chapter Text

"Kagome-chan," Sango greeted her, pointedly ignoring Sesshomaru as she politely nodded at Kaede, before correcting herself, "Higurashi-san."

"Hasegawa-san." Kagome winced at the stern disapproval on Sango's face, and knew her old friend had already made her decision without stopping to discuss the situation with Kagome first. But then, she thought bleakly, what else was new? She began wringing the napkin before her, struggling to breathe as her body began to shake.

"I'm surprised at you, Higurashi-san." Sango crossed her arms as she subtly moved to shield Sara from view. "Have you already forgotten what he's done?" She gestured towards Sara behind her.

Before she could reply, Sesshomaru set down his cup and rose. "I would caution against making baseless accusations, Hasegawa-san," he said as he towered over her, his voice dark and full of menacing promise, "unless you would enjoy defending them before counsel."

Sango flinched, a helpless anger stealing over her, but he didn't spare her another look as he turned to Kagome, his expression both patient and kind.

"Come, miko. There is little point in remaining here amongst badgers from the same hole." He lifted his chin as Sango flushed with rage from the insult, but all Kagome cared about then was seizing the excuse he'd offered her to leave.

She couldn't remain there a moment longer.

Chapter Text

Somehow, she found herself sitting on a bench in a park, with Kaede on one side and Sesshomaru on the other, as she nibbled on her ube ice cream. Kaede had declined the ice cream and instead produced a bottle of ume sake and several small paper cups from her purse, but so far, it had gone untouched.

It should have been more than a little surreal, but as she glanced over to see that Sesshomaru had neatly polished off his black sesame ice cream, she found herself relaxing. They may not exactly like one another, but as Kaede had said from the beginning, he protected his own—if albeit in his own way.

"Thank you," she said quietly as she returned her attention to the cherry trees slowly beginning their first bloom. She could admit, even if she didn't want to, that she wouldn't have been able to handle the interaction on her own.

"Bah." Kaede waved a hand. "No point in wasting your gratitude on him, girl." She pulled out a small white envelope and handed it to Sesshomaru. "This'll do instead."

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru tucked the envelope into his inner pocket without looking at it, leaving Kagome more than a little curious about its contents. But she didn't ask, and neither Kaede nor Sesshomaru offered. Instead, once the ice cream was finished off, Kaede poured three cups of sake and passed them around.

"It's a little early to drink, isn't it?" Kagome stared down at the small paper cup. 

Kaede scoffed as she lifted her cup and downed its contents. "There is never an inappropriate time for alcohol." She clicked her tongue. "Unless you are dead."

Chapter Text

Sara sunk in her chair as she glanced around, wiping away a tear as she murmured, "Are they truly gone, Sango-chan?"

"Yes. They're gone, Sara-chan." Sango stared at the door for another moment, even as she ran a soothing hand up and down Sara's back. The poor thing had been traumatized by Kagome's betrayal at work, but seeing her now with her ex-fiance who'd assaulted her seemed to have made things worse. 

"Are you sure?" Sara sniffed loudly, wiping her nose with a napkin another coworker, Hana, offered her. Her voice dropped lower as her mouth suddenly fell open. "You...you don't think she will try to ruin the wedding, do you?" 

"I'm sure she won't. It was probably just a coincidence she was here today," Sango reassured her friend, but she was no longer so sure. Kagome was no longer the friend she'd known, the one who had stood up for any injustice and protected the weak. The evidence Sara had reluctantly provided had been irrefutable, as had the screenshots she'd produced of Kagome badmouthing half the office—including Sango and her own family. The same family who had always welcomed Kagome as if she was one of their own.

Hana put her hands on her hips. "You can't trust Higurashi-san, Sara-chan," she said, giving Sango a stern look. "Remember what happened before. Why else would she come to the cafe you planned to have cater the desserts at your reception?"

Sara promptly dissolved into tears.

Chapter Text

InuYasha pulled his weeping fiancé into his arms, mindful of the eyes around him as he steered her into his office—his now, not Sesshomaru's, and fuck if that didn't feel great—and closed the door behind him. The fact that she needed him, needed his protection in a way Kagome never had, made him feel like a big, powerful man. "What's wrong?" he asked gruffly, disquieted by her tears.

She clung to him, burying her face in his chest, and it was only when he asked a second time that she managed, "It's horrible." Sara hiccuped. "It's so horrible, InuYasha-san."

"What is?" He allowed her to steer him over to the sofa in his office, falling back as he cradled her so she wouldn't be hurt. "What happened, Sara?"

She shook her head. "Just...comfort me," she begged, reaching to pull him into a kiss.

He could deny her nothing. After all, she could have anything she wanted, but all she wanted was him.

Chapter Text

Kagome teetered through the front door, more than a little grateful Jaken had arrived to drive them back home. Kaede's ume sake hadn't been that strong, but the shochu she'd pulled out after—seriously, how big was Kaede's purse, anyway—was far stronger. Leaving Jaken to wash and polish the car, Kagome attempted to hold the door open wider for Sesshomaru behind her.

Instead, she misjudged her own strength and sent the door crashing into the wall. "Oops." She let out a nervous giggle, hoping she hadn't damaged anything. 

Sesshomaru caught the door as it ricocheted back. "You are drunk, miko."

She rolled her eyes. "And you're an ass," she retorted, before waving a hand as she staggered into the house. "But I guess I'd be an ass, too, if I lost everything because some two-bit bitch accused me of rape and insider trading." She tripped, but caught herself on the couch. "Look at us," she added, laughing without any humor, "drunk and broken down because of that witch while she's living it up and we can't do anything about it."

He set his briefcase down on the couch beside her. "Who said," he drawled out, "that we can do nothing, miko?"

Chapter Text

Kagome faltered as a clear warning bell rang through her head. She was drunk, sure, but she wasn't that drunk. "I told you before—" she began, but he didn't allow her the chance to finish.

"Your excuses are meaningless." Sesshomaru sat down on the couch beside his briefcase as he loosened his tie. "It is not within your character to allow an injustice to stand and its perpetrator able to continue to act."

Her mouth fell open at the hair he'd just spliced. He wasn't inviting her to a quest for revenge, but rather to right a wrong. No, she reminded herself then, more than one wrong, because Sara had harmed them both.

He took the white envelope Kaede had given him out of his briefcase and opened it to reveal several photos that he tossed onto the coffee table for her to see. "Beings such as she," he said then, "do not stop until they are stopped, miko."

Kagome could only gawk at the revealed photos as she came face to face with the depth of Sara's duplicity. 

Chapter Text

"This is..." A storm of emotions crashed over her then—fury, indignation, humiliation, betrayal, pain, grief, loss, sorrow—as Kagome reached out to slide the haphazard pile of photographs Sesshomaru had carelessly tossed onto the wooden table. "How?"

"The logistics are not relevant." Sesshomaru leaned back on the couch as he pulled his tie free and set it atop his open briefcase. 

"You have everything," she breathed, cycling through the photos showing Sara planting evidence at Kagome's desk, her seduction of InuYasha while Kagome had still been dating him, and even Sara's copying of Kagome's work product at the office. There were also several others of Sara targeting others in the office, including Sesshomaru. All the photos appeared to be from the security cameras themselves, which she'd been told had been inexplicably lost after Sara had filed charges.

She could clear her name with these. She could press charges against Sara herself. She could—

"Her father will simply buy her way out," he said then as though reading her thoughts. "His influence and monetary support will have to first be removed." He leaned forward, golden eyes gleaming. "That, miko, will also require you."

Chapter Text

And then all of the pieces fell into place. "So that's why," she said, exhaling sharply as the realization hit her. "That's why you showed up that day."

She knew better than most the truth of Sesshomaru's nature. He never did anything without his own benefit; InuYasha had constantly complained about that, just as he'd complained about always being trapped in his older brother's shadow. No doubt Sesshomaru had approached her just as he'd once approached business dealings on behalf of his father, revealing just enough to get her on board.

He inclined his head. 

"You've been planning this for a long time, haven't you?" She rubbed her hands over her face before pulling them through her hair. "I'd bet every last yen I have that you've been planning this since things first blew up with Sara."

"That," he drawled then, a hint of a smirk on his face, "would hardly be a considerable sum to wager."

Well, he had a point, she conceded wryly. "So what's the plan, then? We leak some embarrassing stories or ruin a big business deal or something?"

"Hardly." His smirk grew. "It shall be far more entertaining than that, Kagome."

Chapter Text

She was close to agreement. Sesshomaru could see the wavering in her deep blue eyes as he concealed his satisfaction. He would wait, certain she would acquiesce now.

It had been quite fortunate that Kaede's nephew had an extensive background in hacking—and more fortunate still that her nephew, along with the rest of Kaede's family, believed strongly in righting wrongs. Her robinhoodesque nephew had been all too willing to turn his white hat skills to something more legally questionable for a just cause. 

The wolf, the elder miko, Kagura, and Asano's longest business partner had all recently fallen into line.

The miko was the last piece he required. The king, as it were, though she did not yet realize it.

Whoever had her had the game.

And Sesshomaru would not lose. 

Chapter Text

Kagome settled back, cup of tea in hand. Sesshomaru had insisted on refreshments before he'd deigned it appropriate to discuss his plan in greater depth. She had to admit that Jaken made some great cookies, she thought, nibbling on one as she waited for the tea to cool. "So," she prompted as Sesshomaru settled in with his own tea and Jaken busied himself in the kitchen, "what's the plan, then?"

"Hoshiyomi." Sesshomaru sipped from his cup. 

Her eyes flew open. "You want me to set up a meeting for you." She took a bite of a cookie. "I'm shocked he turned you down," she lied, drawing out the words. Hoshiyomi never met with anyone; Kagome had been lucky to get her foot in the door as she had, and even that had been a challenge.

No one, not even Sesshomaru's father, had the sort of power Hoshiyomi wielded behind the scenes—and everyone knew it.

Chapter Text

He quirked a brow but said nothing as he sipped his tea.

Kagome didn't bother to state the obvious: Sesshomaru clearly intended to outmaneuver and force his father and Asano into positions he wanted them in. "If you're that determined, Sesshomaru, I'll make the call," she said instead, refilling her mostly full cup of tea. "I can't guarantee he'll meet with you, though."

Hoshiyomi hadn't met with anyone since he'd lost his wife earlier that year.

"He will," he replied, his smile almost malicious. "He will appreciate what I have to offer regarding his wife's demise," his eyes glinted, "and the spider hanyo that contributed to it."

Chapter Text

"He'll see you." Kagome turned to Sesshomaru as she set her cell phone down. Hoshiyomi had answered despite the late hour, and though he'd been indifferent to her call, as Sesshomaru had predicted, he'd changed his tune once she'd shared the tidbit he'd given her.

"Of course he will." Sesshomaru set aside his empty teacup. "He is not a fool."

No, she thought then, he wasn't. He'd once been very adept at the same game Sesshomaru was now playing.

She hoped, for his sake and hers, that Sesshomaru knew what he was doing.

Chapter Text

Kagome had expected to wait in the car, but instead she found herself sitting beside the two yokai at a small, nondescript restaurant that was tucked away down a narrow sidestreet. Hoshiyomi had demanded a meeting at his home, but Sesshomaru had refused, resulting in a shortlived battle of wills.

And now the two males stared at one of them as though willing the other to speak first. Perhaps it was no surprise that Sesshomaru refused to cave.

"So." Hoshiyomi poured out three cups of sake as they awaited their food. With his hair pulled back in a high bun, he looked more like a feudal lord from an era long gone. "You have news for me."

"Perhaps," Sesshomaru agreed levelly, accepting a cup as Kagome moved to do the same. 

"From your mistress, no doubt." Hoshiyomi snorted. "What makes you believe I'd trust news from one so eager to betray her own?"

Sesshomaru smirked. "Perhaps there is more to offer," he said then, "than merely the word of another."

Chapter Text

Hoshiyomi settled back on his stool, leaning back into the corner of the restaurant. "I want to see this proof of yours, Ito."

Kagome expected nothing less; Hoshiyomi may well be the mover and shaker of the yokai world, but he also was cunning enough to know when he was being used. He'd demand an equitable trade for his services, but then, Sesshomaru had the one thing he truly wanted.

Vengeance. 

"I am certain you would," Sesshomaru quirked a brow. "To see it, however, is to have it."

Hoshiyomi's lips quirked, but the smile did not reach his eyes. "And you would not offer it to me for free," he drawled, a hint of anger flashing through his eyes. "I know what you want from me, Ito."

Sesshomaru spared a momentary glance for Kagome, though she didn't know why. "Then you know what you must do," he said then, his tone level, "if you wish to have what you seek. Rest assured," he added then with an odd smile, "that I will prove a far more satisfactory business partner than my father."

Chapter Text

Hoshiyomi crossed his arms. "I am not a male to corner, Ito," he warned, his gaze flickering over to Kagome for a moment. It was more than a little uncomfortable how intensely he scrutinized her, and yet, she wasn't sure why he paid her such attention to begin with. 

"One would be a fool to try," Sesshomaru returned evenly, lifting his cup to drain its contents. "I merely offer a profitable trade."

Hoshiyomi was silent then, emptying his own cup before allowing Kagome to refill both his and Sesshomaru's. As Hoshiyomi's claws tapped against his cup, she threw back her own, relishing the burn as the sake slid down her throat. It wasn't much, but hell, she'd tolerate almost anything to take the edge off at this point.

"I have no interest in a lovers' quarrel," Hoshiyomi said then, no doubt referring to Sara's relationship with InuYasha. "If you seek to—"

"I seek only that which you have yourself sought." Sesshomaru leaned forward. "Vengeance." 

Chapter Text

In the end, Hoshiyomi did not protest further. Perhaps it was the commonality with Sesshomaru that motivated him to agree to the terms, but Kagome suspected that the other yokai had always intended to agree. The promise of having revenge against the spider hanyo who had murdered his wife was far too great an allure.

"Miko." Hoshiyomi spoke, stopping with one raised hand when she moved to follow Sesshomaru out of the restaurant. "I do not enjoy being outmaneuvered."

"I know." She smiled back, but she was aware of the dangerous game she's played on her employer's behalf. "For what it's worth, I'm not happy about it, either." She'd genuinely liked Tsukiyomi, and Kagome hadn't wanted to add to her mate's suffering.

"Hnn." He eyed her as he reached into his suit pocket, pulling out a small envelope. "If it were not for Tsukiyomi," he said, placing the envelope down before her, "I would not even do this. Know that." And then, without another word, he walked away. 

Chapter Text

Everywhere she went, it seemed allies and enemies alike handed over information in envelopes. As she followed Sesshomaru to the car, she took a quick peek and stopped short when she saw the photos. Oh shit.

She absently got in and started the engine, her mind still whirling. Struggling to find something to say, she blurted, "You haven't seen any of your, ah, ladies for a while." Stupid, she thought, cursing herself. Stupid, stupid.

He quirked a brow as he settled back. "They have all been retired." 

"Right." She nodded absently, pressing her lips together, but she failed to stop the question from leaving her lips. "When was the last time you had sex with Asano?"

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru's brows raised as his lips quirked. "I did not realize you were so interested in my preferences," he drawled, leaning back in his seat as she pulled the car onto the road.

She flushed. "I'm not," she said a little too quickly, her gaze dropping to the envelope she'd tucked into her bag. She didn't quite know how to explain her question without also explaining the contents inside, and she really did not want to do that. "It just struck me as weird, I guess, that our exes got together." 

It sounded stupid the moment it left her lips. He snorted. "The relationship was arranged by our parents," he said, turning his attention to his tablet. "I never consented to it."

She gripped the steering wheel as the implication hit her. If it wasn't him in those photos taken back at Christmas, then the betrayal went even deeper than she'd ever believed.

InuYasha...you asshole!

Chapter Text

Kagome passed the envelope that Hoshiyomi had given her at the next red light. "Hoshiyomi-san gave me that," she explained quietly, one hand fisting the steering wheel. "If it's not you, then there's only one person it could be."

His brows raised as he opened the envelope and took out the photos. "InuYasha," he said, a devilish smirk spreading across his face. "I have you now."

"Does that mean you're ready to make your move?" She gave him a wary glance through the rearview mirror. She was eager now for karmic justice in a way she hadn't been, but the betrayal was a final nail in the coffin. 

His smirk grew as he tucked the photos back into the envelope. "It is time for the pieces to fall as they will."

Chapter Text

When they arrived home, Kagome silently made her way to the kitchen. Her mother had once said that violence wasn't an option, but kneading dough was a good enough substitute. By the time the sun had set, she had three different loaves that she'd slammed and rolled about the counter, and still, the rage inside her hadn't fully quieted.

InuYasha had been sleeping with Sara for months before Sara's accusations had begun. It stung even as it enraged her, but more than that, it made her feel alone and bereft. Then again, she thought bitterly, she was alone. Aside from Sesshomaru, she had no one else.

She wiped her brow as she set aside the loaves to rest.

If InuYasha wanted to indulge in betrayal, she thought then, a plan coming to fruition inside her, well, two could play at that game. 

She'd show him what betrayal really felt like. 

Chapter Text

Kagome opened the door to Sesshomaru's room, well aware of what she was about to suggest. She was about to cross a line, one which had no return, but she did so now with her eyes wide open. 

Sesshomaru did not so much as glance up from the book he was reading as he sat propped up in bed. "I presume," he said without preamble, "that you have finished your attempts to destroy the kitchen tonight, miko."

She'd wondered before if he slept or merely rested in his bedroom, and it seemed that now she'd had her answer. "I was making bread," she corrected absently, taking a step into the room. It should have felt like entering forbidden territory—she knew what kind of male he was; knew he'd had a long list of lovers and mistresses—and yet it felt nothing of the sort.

"Hnn." He turned a page. "If you came here to bid this one to comfort you—"

"I came here," she interrupted, squaring her shoulders, "to sleep with you, Sesshomaru."

She took great satisfaction when the book tumbled out of his hands and onto the floor.

Chapter Text

Kagome calmly picked up the mystery thriller and set it aside. “I’m good at it.”

Golden eyes met hers, tinged with amber at the edges. “I do not particularly enjoy one night stands, miko, regardless of the temptation.”

“Who said anything about one night?” She shrugged. She hadn’t anticipated more, but what the hell? She was feeling more than a little reckless. “Unless you’re only up for one.” She sniffed as she eyed his lap.

“Careful, miko,” he warned then, his voice low and dark with sensual promise, “or I will give you the fucking you are asking for.”

“Careful, Sesshomaru,” she echoed, moving one hand up the sheet to cup him through the blanket, “or I’ll give you the fucking you’re asking for.”

She found herself on her back a moment later, the daiyokai looming above her with reddened eyes. “I will hear you scream.”

“Will you?” She slipped her hand into his pajama pants to cup his growing erection directly. “Maybe you’ll be the one to—”

Hard lips met hers then, swallowing the rest of her sensual threat in an unyielding kiss.

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru, she discovered, was as smug and domineering in bed as he was out of it. 

She was still recovering her breath, her body trembling with the last vestiges of pleasure, as he brushed the damp hair back from his face and purred, “Twice, miko.”

Kagome knew a challenge when she heard one. “That certainly took the edge off.” She stretched, her body fatigued, but she wasn’t about to back down. “This time, you’ll be the one screaming, Sesshomaru.”

He quirked a brow, his mouth open to retort, but all that left his lips then was a low growl as her hands and the wet cloth he’d set aside found his cock. A moment later, her mouth followed in their wake.

He would scream, she promised herself as she allowed a little reiki to spill forth from her hands.

She’d make sure of it. 

Chapter Text

Kagome awoke with a small jolt to something soft and silky against her skin, teasing and leaving a burning fire in its wake. Her eyes fluttered open to find Sesshomaru looming over her, a red silk tie in one hand. His gaze met hers and he smirked as he lowered his head to her breast.

She attempted to sink her fingers into his hair, but found her wrists and ankles both restrained by more ties. "Sesshomaru!" The rebuke was cut short by a gasp as his tongue found her. "You—"

"Revenge," he purred, reminding her of her short-lived victory as he slowly awoke the passion latent within her body, "tastes sweet, little miko."

Later, when she could think clearly again, she'd wage a little torment of her own, but for now, he had the upper hand.

And they both knew it.

Chapter Text

Kagome awoke to the sound of the shower. Sesshomaru was absent from his bed, but she hadn't expected him to linger and cuddle her until morning as though their night together had really meant anything. She'd slept with him out of anger and revenge and Sesshomaru—

Well, he'd probably slept with her because his mistresses had either abandoned him or been set aside while he focused on his own vengeance, she admitted to herself honestly. He'd been horny and she'd been convenient.

She slipped out of bed, not bothering to call out a greeting to him as she returned to her room to shower and dress as well. Some of her muscles protested the movement, and she quickly abandoned the idea of a quick shower for a long soak. 

Sex didn't have to mean anything—not even really good sex, she reminded herself as she climbed into the tub.

She wished it felt less like she was trying to convince herself.

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru could not resist the desire to gloat. He had everything he required now to see to his revenge, made all the sweeter by the miko's capitulation. He had not expected such from her, but he would admit, if only to himself, that he had thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Enough, perhaps, to keep her—if at least for a time.

He poured the tea, absently preparing two cups instead of one, and, as he could hear the sounds of the miko bathing, he made the call, knowing it would be answered despite the early hour. No doubt the male in question was already be at the computer, furtively attempting damage control. 

As soon as the line connected, he murmured smugly, "Good morning, Chichi-ue."

Chapter Text

"I do not have time for your groveling, Sesshomaru," his father barked, his fingers never pausing on the keyboard. No doubt, Sesshomaru thought smugly, his father was already hard at work trying to undo the damage of the news article that was about to drop—and the courtesy heads up his father had received.

Koga had done well.

"Busy, are you?" Sesshomaru's smile grew. "I suppose the business is booming now that InuYasha is due to marry."

His father's fingers audibly stilled, and then, "What would you know of that, Sesshomaru?"

"One hears things," Sesshomaru replied casually.

The game was now afoot.

Chapter Text

Asano Chinatsu set aside the newspaper and reached for her wine glass to hide her smirk. The upcoming wedding had made the news, all but ensuring the nuptials would take place as scheduled in a fortnight. It was hardly enough time to prepare the wedding of the year, but they would have to make do.

"I never did like the mimosas here."

Chinatsu glanced up with a polite smile as Fuji Shobu seated herself across the table. The socialite businesswoman was well-connected, and she was not so foolish as to alienate the other woman. "They are of rather poor quality, I'll admit," she said, sipping her own. "But one must make do."

"Hmm. I understand congratulations are in order." Shobu waved a waiter over. "Hopefully she is still able to fit into her wedding dress when the time comes."

Chinatsu's smile faltered momentarily as she took note of the cunning gleam in Shobu's golden eyes. "Ah, to be young and foolish again," she said, recovering quickly. 

Shobu looked amused. "It is said that a fool's work is never done."

Chapter Text

Ito Satoshi let the phone drop into the receiver. He had struggled to recover the failed marriage talks with the Asanos after what his eldest son had done, and he had hoped to teach the boy an important lesson. It would seem he had failed and, if anything, his son's difficult temperament had only worsened.

When had the boy become so envious of his younger brother?

"Dear?" He glanced up at the quiet knock, his expression softening as his wife walked into the room. "I brought you some tea."

He pressed a kiss into Izayoi's palm, but though such beauty was before him, he could not stop thinking over the problem. If he had noticed sooner, if he had acted, then perhaps he could have prevented—

"What troubles you?" When he remained silent, she guessed, "Is it our son's wedding? Or," she said, her fingers finding his hair, "is it your other son?"

He grunted. 

"After all he has done," she murmured, "perhaps it's time to let him go, dear. His mistakes are his own; they do not reflect on your parenting. You've done all you could."

He did not agree, though he leaned into her touch. He had never believed he'd raised a son who would lack such honor, and once again he reflected on where he had erred so he could remedy the problem.

Perhaps it was time to call the boy's mother, and allow her to handle the situation. Yes, he thought, relaxing. Shobu could handle their son, and doing so would free him up to handle the wedding. 

He reached for the phone and made the call.

Chapter Text

Kagome warily accepted the cup of tea Sesshomaru handed her. He wasn't one for acts of devotion—not that he had a reason to do so in the first place, she reminded herself—so the act threw her a little off kilter. "You seem like you're in a good mood."

"Hnn." He smirked as he poured himself another cup. 

Doubting it had anything to do with the sex, she guessed, "I take it that the wolf published the news article." When Sesshomaru inclined his head, his expression smug, she realized it wasn't just the news of the wedding being reported on before the families were ready. "You included those photos, didn't you?"

His smirk only grew.

Chapter Text

The gossip magazine had done the trick. Hoshiyomi's protection ensured that even the powerful Ito and Asano families could not kill the story before it was published.

And the reaction was immediate. Sesshomaru had been right when he'd smugly told her that morning that the first to tell their side was the victor in the eyes of the media. The story of Sara cheating with the younger brother while engaged to the elder was already circulating the news, along with the pictures.

As she scrolled through the news, she received several texts. One was from Sara accusing Kagome of ruining her life, and the other...was from her mother, upset about the news coverage and how it had reignited the old gossip regarding Kagome's case.

Kagome deleted both without fully reading them. 

Chapter Text

"So where are we off to?" she asked when Sesshomaru all but bullied her into the car after breakfast. When he gave her the name of a prominent hotel in Tokyo, her brows raised.

"There will be a press conference held there within the next half hour." He glanced at his watch. "Do not dawdle, miko."

Rolling her eyes, she started the car. "You'd think that after we’d had sex, you'd start calling me by name." She didn't ask about the news conference; didn't need to. The only one Sesshomaru would care to attend would be one hosted by his family or the Asano family.

Given the article that morning, it was likely both.

"Perhaps you should put more effort into your seduction next time, miko," he purred.

The heat in his eyes as she met his gaze distracted her, telling her that, despite his brusque manner this morning, he wanted there to be a next time as much as she.

It was an intoxicating thought.

Chapter Text

The conference started off with the usual spiel. Both the Asano family and the Ito family bowed low, offering their apologies publically for all to witness. It had been a honest, foolish mistake—one of folly and youth, not ill intent. Likely, they believed this to be the worst, and together they would weather the storm.

They were fools.

Sesshomaru nodded to Kaede. It would only take her a moment to hook up the computer to the cloud and access the presentation he'd left upon it. Once it was up, there was nothing either family could do to stop the truth unveiling.

He did, after all, have all the receipts.

Chapter Text

"Is it true?" The reporters all eagerly crowded the platform where both families stood, and they were too shrewd not to see the pained and anxious reactions. "Ito-san, what do you have to say to all of this? Did you know about the bribery allegations against Asano Kiyoshi and his wife?" one demanded, holding out his microphone.

"Is this why you agreed to the marriage, Ito-san?" another asked, her hand eagerly gripping her cell phone for her podcast. "Did you accept bribes as well?"

Another microphone was thrust forward. "Is it true that you sold your votes for money, Asano-san?" 

"Asano-san, is it true you accepted a bribe from Sato Naraku?" a fourth voice chimed in.

As the excited questions continued, Sesshomaru took note of his father's wince as well as the horror on Kiyoshi's face. Even Sara tried to duck behind the others, dodging the questions asked of her about her involvement in a wrongful termination case, along with her alleged infidelity.

Sesshomaru smirked into his cup of cheap hotel tea. Revenge was sweet, indeed.

Chapter Text

With the bribery charges brought to light, it would not be long before the conference would be interrupted by the police wishing to question both families. Of course, Sesshomaru thought, smirking, he had also ensured the police already had all the documentation needed to make the arrests. The Asanos and their daughter would be facing some heavy charges, as would those who had aided them.

He would follow their trials with relish.

It would likewise be difficult enough for the Itos to recover from the goodwill lost by having one son seduce away and impregnate the fiancé of the other, as well as the unjust firing of the elder son, of course, but those were largely problems of image.

The Asano family would have to contend far worse. The false allegations Sara had created against both Sesshomaru and an 'unnamed employee,' along with the shady business deals, bribery allegations, money laundering, and other corruption charges would prove far more difficult to shake.

The Ito family would be damaged by the news, but the Asanos would be ruined.

"Do you want to stay?" Kagome turned to him, but she did not appear to be as amused by the situation as he was. If anything, she seemed almost...distressed by the news. 

Her soft heart, he decided, but it no longer bothered him as it once had. It only made him more determined to seek vengeance for them both. "No." He could follow the drama later in the news. Her comfort was far more important now.

She said nothing as her eyes drifted back to his brother's prone form as he bowed low. 

His hand gripped the styrofoam cup. If she intended to return to InuYasha, she would soon learn that he would make a poor replacement for the love she sought.

Sesshomaru would not allow her to make that mistake twice. 

Chapter Text

Leaving the two families to their fate and the formal investigations, Sesshomaru ducked out the back door, and Kagome followed after him. There were other, more pleasurable things they could be doing, and Sesshomaru intended to indulge in every single one.

But first, he would ensure her usual good humor had been restored—whatever it took.

"Son."

Sesshomaru did not turn as his father reached out to grab him, only to pull back at the last moment.

"We should talk," his father said then.

"There is nothing to say." Sesshomaru was not interested in his father's apologies now that he'd been vindicated. They held little merit. Yet he was compelled to say, "You should return before your absence is noted and commented on."

His father let out a heavy sigh. "I understand you were hurt by my actions," he said quietly, glancing around for anyone who may have snuck out the back of the conference room as they had. "I can appreciate that, and I'm sorry for it. But you must understand, son, that my decision was about more than just you."

"I do not care." Sesshomaru lifted his chin. He did not need his father, nor his father's support.

It would not be long before his father realized that as well.

Chapter Text

"There are four thousand one hundred and thirty-six people employed by our company."

Sesshomaru turned back to look at his father, his expression flat.

"Four thousand one hundred and thirty-six people, Sesshomaru. All of them depend on a stable company for their livelihoods and for their families' wellbeing." His father lifted his chin. "The rumors against you would have destroyed our public image. I had no choice." He held up his hands when Sesshomaru opened his mouth to reply. "However, I should have listened to you, son, and supported you as I could."

"I do not require your aid," Sesshomaru replied, turning away. "All I desired then was your belief in my honor, father."

It was the last time he resolved to ever call Ito Satoshi that.

Chapter Text

"Are you okay?" Kagome looped her arm in his as he walked away from his father. She seemed to have recovered from her melancholy as she'd silently offered her support during the altercation with his father.

"It does not matter." He no longer cared what his father thought; he had taken care of his own honor and pride. He had his vengeance, and he had his woman; he did not require the approval nor companionship of anyone else. 

"Sesshomaru!" His father's voice was urgent then. "Do as you will for now—that is your right—but promise me you will return when it is time to take over. Merge your new company with ours and protect them."

"You have your own heir now." InuYasha would likely run the business into the ground with his impulsive behavior, but that was not his problem.

His father was silent a moment. "You know as well as I do now," he said then, "that InuYasha could not thrive in that role. Regardless of how you feel, Sesshomaru, I am asking you to do your duty to our employees and to our family that built this company. You owe them that much. Those lives depend on you."

Sesshomaru opened his mouth to refuse, but this time, the miko spoke for him. "He'll think about it," she said, her hand running soothingly up and down his arm as she steered him out the back door. "You should head back, Ito-san. You have a lot of damage control to do."

Chapter Text

Neither of them wanted to go home after that, so Kagome found herself taking them to a nearby park. She found parking and then got out, gently ushering Sesshomaru out of the car.

For a while, neither of them said anything as they walked the grounds, silently processing all that had occurred.

"So what do you want to do? Are you going to refuse his company?" she finally asked. She didn't know if he should, but it was his decision to make.

He met her gaze, a rare moment of vulnerability within the haughty gold color. "I do not know," he conceded quietly. "I had every intention of doing so."

She nodded. "It's not like you have to decide right away," she suggested gently, not really knowing what the correct answer was herself. He'd built his own business, sure, but his father's empire was supposed to have been his one day, and now he had the chance to take it back.  "He's not planning on retiring any time soon yet, right?"

He inclined his head after a moment. He'd intended to refuse as the final piece of his revenge, but it struck him that there was another option available. He could wait for his father's company to fail, but instead of allowing it to fold as he'd anticipated, he could buy it out. "So I can. It will do him good to sweat over the matter." His lips quirked as he considered what he might do with the company if he did indeed acquire it—and not the other way around as his father hoped. "And what of you, miko? Will you return home?"

"No." The denial left her lips before she thought about it, but she realized then that she didn't want to go back. Her family had been unwilling to stand by her side when it had mattered most, and Kagome realized during the conference when her mother had texted a curt apology that there were some things that just couldn't be undone.

All she could do now was move forward and try to build a new life for herself—whatever that might be.

Chapter Text

That night, as she reached for the box of pasta noodles, her phone vibrated on the counter beside the stove. Can we talk?

She glanced over at Sesshomaru, certain what his reaction would be to the text from his brother. He raised his brows as he tossed up the vegetables in the skillet. "I imagine that he intends to grovel."

"Maybe," she allowed, stirring the pasta into the boiling pot. "It wouldn't do much good, though." It wasn't like she'd go announce publicly that she forgave him and help save his reputation. He'd reaped what he'd sown. 

"You intend to see him anyway." His voice was flat as he tossed the vegetables again, even though it was too soon to do so.

She nodded, though she knew he probably wouldn't understand her need for closure. She wasn't quite sure she understood it herself, since she didn't feel a need to speak with her former friends, old coworkers, or even her family. She didn't really want revenge any longer, even if it would have crushed InuYasha to know she was sleeping with his brother. "I need to hear it from him, I guess."

His expression tightened, and suddenly, he reached around her to turn off the stove. 

"Hey!" she began, a ready protest at her lips. She didn't get the chance to finish as he lifted her up in his arms.

"It occurs to me," he purred then, "that there are other hungers we could satiate now, Kagome." 

When his lips found hers, she didn't once think of refusing.

Chapter Text

Kagome sat across from InuYasha and waited, one hand aimlessly stirring the straw in her frozen coffee. Sesshomaru was probably right about this being a bad idea, but even knowing that, she hadn't been able to refuse.

After all she'd been through, she deserved answers, dammit.

She expected excuses, perhaps some form of shifting the blame, but Kagome honestly hadn't expected him to try and apologize, as haphazard as his attempt was. 

"Look, I get it, you're mad at me," InuYasha said, blowing out a breath. "I don't blame you. I fucked up, and I know it, and I'm sorry. I shouldn't have—"

Kagome held up one hand, realizing only now, when she'd gotten it, that she didn't want his apology. "I didn't come here to listen to your excuses, InuYasha, and I sure didn't come here for the coffee." They'd agreed to meet at the same cafe she'd gone to with her friends at work, and after today, she'd never come here again. "The one thing I do want," she said, leaning forward, "is to hear why. You could have just broken up with me if you were that unhappy, InuYasha. You didn't have to sleep with her."

Chapter Text

"I didn't sleep with her. Honest." InuYasha rubbed the back of his neck. "Not back then, anyway."

Kagome crossed her arms. "Then how do you explain the photos, InuYasha?" She'd seen him fucking Sara in those photos, and the small holiday tree she'd given him as a gift had proved when. 

"Hell, I don't know! Someone faked them or something." InuYasha's ears twitched. "Look, I'm telling you, I didn't sleep with her back then. I didn't know what she was planning to do with you, either." He let out a breath. "I swear I didn't. You have to believe me."

Even if he hadn't slept with Sara back then, she allowed, he'd still cheated on her eventually. "I don't believe you," she replied, "but it doesn't matter. You made your bed and believed her lies and—"

"Dammit, I swear, I wasn't fucking her that night, Kagome!" His eyes tinged red. "I don't care what those photos show. I wasn't with Sara." When she quirked a brow, incredulous, he continued, "I'm tellin' you, someone faked something. Sara wasn't with me; I swear she wasn't." He ran a hand through his hair. "Look, I can prove it, okay? Someone else was with me that night and can vouch for—" He flinched, realizing what he'd just said, and exhaled sharply. "Shit."

Chapter Text

"Someone else?" she asked, pushing back her anger. "Just how many people have you slept with, InuYasha?"

"I didn't mean to, Kagome. I swear." His ears flattened. "It just happened."

She held up one hand, ruthlessly pushing aside her anger and betrayal. "Spare me. Your dick doesn't just fall into someone else, InuYasha." She'd been so certain he'd been faithful back then, but now it was clear that he'd cheated with her with not one, but at least two people. Somehow, that betrayal was worse than when he'd sided with Sara at work.

"It...Look, I was drunk, okay?" He shifted his weight. "When Koga showed up, I wasn't thinking straight and—"

"Koga?" She crossed her arms. "You cheated on me with that wolf reporter?" She finally understood Koga's unusual reaction that night. Had he known they were together back then?

InuYasha let out a breath as he sat down across from her. "Yeah. It wasn't on purpose, I swear it wasn't. I just..." His ears flattened. "I'm bisexual, Kagome. I never told you before because...you come from a shrine, alright? I didn't think you'd be fine with it, and besides, it didn't matter because I wasn't gonna sleep with anyone else."

"Except you did." She pressed her lips together as the pain lanced her. "You didn't trust me at all, InuYasha."

Chapter Text

"It wasn't like that." InuYasha rubbed one hand over his jaw.

"Then what was it like?" She crossed her arms. "Because from where I'm standing, it sure seems like you didn't trust me and you didn't want me. Not really." If he'd truly wanted her, he wouldn't have cheated on her, he wouldn't have betrayed her, and he wouldn't have lied to her. 

He was silent for a moment and then said quietly, "Look, Koga and I were together first." As she gaped at him, he shrugged, his ear twitching. "He got some big photography gig in the arctic circle that was supposed to last for three years. Wanted me to go with him. Even proposed." He ran one hand through his hair. "I said no. What was I gonna do, sit around and wait for him to fuck me whenever he had the time?" He snorted. "Told him to beat it; I wasn't going to sit around and wait for him, either." He shrugged again. "Six months later, I met you at the office."

She waited. She knew InuYasha, knew that there was more than he was telling her. She just had to wait him out. 

Eventually, he explained, "He just got back the night of the party." He broke her gaze, his expression guilty. "Tried to reconnect. I was drunk," he winced, "so was he, and one thing just kind of led to another..." He let out a breath. "He proposed again after like it meant something. I kicked him out, but I guess he came back or something, I don't know. I passed out after that. I spent the next week trying to figure out how to tell you and make things right. I swear, I care about you and didn't mean to hurt you—"

"But you didn't." She let out a breath. "You didn't tell me, InuYasha."

Chapter Text

She didn't bother to wait for his response; it didn't matter. Her intuition told her that, no matter what he'd claimed, the person he'd really loved wasn't Kagome, nor was it Sara.

He was still in love with Koga.

Oh sure, he might deny it until he was blue in the face, but she knew him, and she finally understood what had been missing in their relationship. She'd been his rebound, perhaps his way of proving something to Koga, and when that had failed, he'd fallen prey to Sara's machinations.

But he didn't want either of them. Not really. 

"You lied to me, cheated on me, and then you sat there and watched as Sara destroyed my reputation." She watched as he winced, and, with sudden clarity, she realized she no longer cared. She could hurt him by telling him what she'd done, if she'd really wanted to, but what was the point? It wouldn't make her feel better, and it wouldn't fix anything, either.

He opened and shut his mouth. "Look, I fucked up, but it wasn't—"

"Save it." She held up a hand. "Do everyone a favor, InuYasha," she continued, shaking her head. "Call the wolf and make up, and stop dragging other people into your relationship problems. Figure your shit out together and deal with it, okay?"

His eyes widened, and for a moment, he looked hopeful. "You...forgive me, Kagome?" He leaned forward. "Then you'll—"

"No." Her voice was flat as his expression fell, but she couldn't bring herself to care, either. Understanding didn't mean forgiveness, and at the end of the day, he'd still hurt her. That couldn't be undone. "I don't. I don't think I ever could. Honestly, I hope I never have to see you again." She exhaled. "But that doesn't mean you shouldn't find your own happiness, InuYasha." And then, before he could reply, she turned and left.

Chapter Text

"Don't say it," she warned, holding up one hand as she settled into the driver's seat. Sesshomaru had insisted on going with her to meet InuYasha, though heaven only knew why. "I know it was a stupid idea, but he asked to see me, and I...I needed to go."

He snorted from the seat beside her. "You are a fool."

"Probably," she agreed easily, "but I wanted to hear him out, anyway." She'd gotten some answers, at least, and now she finally felt like she could move on with her life. She didn't know what she'd do yet, but she had her name and her reputation back.

He gave her a level look. "Do you intend to hear everyone out who harmed you?" She saw the faint hint of green at his claws.

She considered the question and then shook her head. "No." She no longer cared what her family or former friends had to say; they'd all made their choices. She didn't want to fill her life with people she couldn't trust when life got hard. In fact, when she got home, the first thing she'd do was block all their numbers. Meeting InuYasha today had taught her one thing.

She didn't need revenge to move on after all.

"Very well. Take us home, miko." He inclined his head, and that was that. 

Chapter Text

The following morning, Sesshomaru informed her that they would be meeting his mother, and Kagome found herself driving the two of them to charming traditional house on the outer edge of Tokyo. When they got out of the car, however, she was surprised to see not one but two familiar faces standing in the doorway, arm in arm.

Fuji Shobu, the woman who had once approached her on behalf of her mother—and Sato Kagura.

"Oh, that's weird," she said without thinking as she took in the sight of the two women arm-in-arm. "That's so weird. Your ex hooked up with your mom, Sesshomaru."

"So it would seem," he replied calmly. If the notion bothered him, he didn't show it.

Chapter Text

"Welcome to my home." Fuji Shobu extended one regal hand in a western greeting. "It pleases me that you were able to accept my invite so quickly."

"Thank you for having us." Kagome shook Shobu's hand, and then Sesshomaru stepped forward to press a swift, chaste kiss to his mother's cheek. 

"Us?" Shobu smirked, her expression knowing, as she glanced between the two of them. "So that is how it is, is it?"

Kagome flushed, but she couldn't think of a single way to explain her way out of that slip of the tongue, so she didn't bother to try.

Neither did Sesshomaru.

Chapter Text

"You know Kagura, of course." Shobu made quick introductions before leading them to the dining table where hot genmaicha tea and tea snacks awaited them. "We have recently mated, you know." After Kagome offered congratulations and Sesshomaru said nothing, Shobu continued, "That is not why I asked you here, however. Have you heard from your mother, young miko?"

"Yes," Kagome admitted, "but I didn't read the texts." She had blocked her mother first thing that morning.

"Hnn." Shobu inclined her head as Kagura began pouring the tea. The wind yokai seemed to stare at Sesshomaru, as if searching for something, but whatever it was, she must have found it because she glanced away, satisfied. "She wishes to apologize."

"If she sent you as a messenger to beg for forgiveness," Kagome said icily, "then she's wasting her time. I don't have any intention of calling or texting her back."

"I am not here on your mother's behalf." Shobu accepted the cup her mate handed her. "I was simply curious."

Kagome took a cup as well. "She had other options," she said, wishing she sounded less bitter. "She just didn't choose any of them."

Chapter Text

Shobu sat back in her chair. "As it happens," she murmured, lips quirking, "I informed your mother of that. There were ways she could have supported you without endangering the reputation of the shrine." She shrugged. "That is why I sought you out. If you were not doing well, I intended to offer you my aid."

It had been an odd conversation at the time, but Kagome understood her intention now. "That was a strange way of offering it."

Shobu's smile grew. "You did not really need it. Of course," she said, amused, "I shall have to find another way to discharge my little debt, but no matter."

No, she hadn't needed it, Kagome thought. Just as she didn't need help now. She wouldn't go back to her family, but she wouldn't take revenge, either. A life well lived without them was revenge enough in her mind.

"I had intended to leave after speaking with you, of course," Shobu said with another smile. "But I discovered a charming little wind yokai in need of my help, so rather than return home to Hokkaido, I decided to remain here for a time." She glanced over at Kagura, who flushed, and then at her son, who sipped his tea as though he hadn't a care in the world. And then she smirked at Kagome, her expression knowing. "My son is rather clumsy at times, miko. Do not expect honeyed words to drop from his lips. You may well have to ask the foolish boy yourself." 

Chapter Text

As they left his mother's home after tea, Kagome couldn't help but ask, "So what happens now?" They'd both found their revenge, and that was what had brought them together to begin with. She wasn't fool enough to believe she was special, nor would she overstay her welcome. His mother might believe they were romantically involved, but what was between them was physical only. It couldn't last.

It was time she began looking for her own place.

"Take us home, Kagome." He did not glance up from his tablet. "There is work to be done."

She sighed. She hadn't really expected anything different.

Chapter Text

InuYasha stood before Sara, all too aware of the audience behind him. Fuck, he hadn't wanted to do it like this, but what choice did he have? His parents and Koga had both insisted on coming along, and he'd had no choice. It was his father's influence that had gotten him the visit to begin with.

He eyed her, a little surprised to see that the woman shackled to the table before him was starting to show.

"So you are pregnant." InuYasha let out a breath. At least she'd told the truth about that. 

"What of it?" Sara sniffed. "It's not like I'm going to keep it."

He stiffened. "Is it mine?" It could be, but he didn't trust her, not after all that had happened. He'd only just learned that she'd shown up while he'd been wasted that night, nursing a broken heart after Koga had left, and seduced him. It had been her poor luck that he'd forgotten her entirely when he'd woken up and stumbled out to work, thinking he'd only slept with Koga both times. She'd been forced to change tactics.

If only he hadn't succumbed when she had come to him a few weeks later, sobbing about how his brother and Kagome had hurt her and she needed his help. He had felt big, powerful, and masculine then…and he had played right into her game. Every lie she'd given him, he'd believed. Every request she'd made of him, he'd done without question. He'd never once thought of talking to Kagome about what had happened or looking for proof.

If only he'd never met Sara in the first place, he lamented, then none of this would have happened. It was all her fault.

She shrugged. "What if it is?" 

"If it is," he said, a sense of possessiveness gripping him, "then I want the kid. Full custody," he pressed, confident Sara wouldn't want to bother with a kid, anyway. He and Koga would raise the baby themselves.

She leaned back, her expression suddenly shrewd. "Tell him if you want the baby, I want clemency. He's got the pull." She glanced at his father behind him before examining her nails as though she didn't care that she'd been arrested that morning along with the rest of her family. "And a house in Honolulu and cash. Lots of cash." Her eyes gleamed. "I'm thinking at least five million US dollars."

Chapter Text

Before InuYasha could speak, Satoshi crossed his arms and said, "A small house and one hundred thousand US dollars once your prison term has been served."

Sara smirked. "One million and a mansion. And I'm free. No prison time. No probation." She tapped her stomach. "Otherwise..."

That fucking bitch.

"One hundred thousand," Satoshi repeated firmly, "and a small house when you are released—if you sign over custody and agree never to make contact with the child once you're released, and if the DNA test is conclusive. Be grateful you get that, woman. Your family assets are frozen, and your parents are in jail, likely for a considerable length of time. You won't find a better offer, and you know it."

Sara's smile faltered. "Two-fifty and a house," she said then, her jaw tight, "and probation. I refuse to spend my youth in prison."

Satoshi glanced down at his watch. "Good luck to you in prison, Asano-san. We look forward to following your trial in the news." He turned to leave.

"But the child—" Sara protested angrily, still confident she had the trump card.

"We will speak to the judge about what can be done. The deal is off the table." His tone had been icy, and once again, InuYasha envied how easily business dealings came to his father. It just wasn't fucking fair. As his father turned to leave, Sara called out in a panic.

"Wait! Fine," Sara ground out. "You win." She agreed to Satoshi's terms after that, but it was obvious that she hadn't liked it.

InuYasha didn't give a fuck. He wanted nothing to do with Sara ever again. 

Chapter Text

"Thank you," InuYasha told his father quietly as they made their way back to their vehicles. 

Satoshi shrugged. "You may have had substantial errors in judgment, but you are still my son, InuYasha, however disappointed I am in you. We will keep an eye on her until the child is born. After that..." He shrugged again.

"We all fucked up," InuYasha grumbled defensively as his mate's arm wrapped around his shoulder. He wasn't the only one, dammit.  

"And we are paying the price, are we not?" Satoshi quirked a brow.

InuYasha flushed at the pointed reminder. Sesshomaru had ensured the whole family suffered, both personally and professionally. They'd already lost two major business contracts following the conference. Fuck, he wasn't looking forward to trying to fix that shit any more than he was looking forward to his father's inevitable lecture.

"That reminds me," Satoshi added, giving his son and his son's new mate a pointed look. "I believe it is time you start considering another occupation, InuYasha." He pulled out his phone. "You are fired from this one."

His mother pressed her lips together, but she did not speak to his defense.

InuYasha winced. Fuck, he wasn't surprised, but it wasn't fair. He wasn't the only fuck up. "Yeah, well, I didn't want to keep working there, anyway." Maybe he'd join Koga on his trip to Canada next year, and take his kid with them. He'd refused before, but now that he had no fucking job, maybe he should go. Let his dad fix the company and deal with it; InuYasha didn't need that headache.

"You'll find something else, dear," Izayoi said soothingly as she rubbed his arm. "Why not take up pottery again? You were always rather good at that."

Satoshi did not even glance back at his son as InuYasha huffed. He wasn't about to grovel, if that's what his dad wanted. "Yeah, maybe." He gave his dad another petulant look. "Koga wanted to travel, anyway." 

Koga quirked a brow, but he looked pleased that InuYasha had changed his mind. "Yeah, a trip sounds nice," he said casually as he pulled InuYasha closer. "Got that offer in Canada; we can take the kid with us, too."

InuYasha flushed, pleased they were finally on the same page. Maybe it was time for a fresh start.

"Do what you want," Satoshi said, "but it will not be with my money. It is time you earn your own." And then his father answered the phone as it rang, all but groveling to try and restore what he had lost.

Chapter Text

It took her almost two weeks, but Kagome finally found her own place and paid the deposit. She had more than enough to move out, thanks to Sesshomaru's generous pay, but now the next thing on her list was to find a new job.

That would likely take longer, but at least Sesshomaru didn't seem to be in a hurry to terminate her.

She took a deep breath that evening over dinner and said, "I found a place."

"Hnn." His lack of response didn't really surprise her. They were still having sex every day, but somewhere along the way, it stopped becoming a competition and had become...something else. Something she couldn't quite put her finger on. He sought her out as much as she sought him, but it was the way he held her after that seemed to say something that, if she wasn't careful, her heart might foolishly begin to mistake for love.

She wasn't foolish enough, however. She didn't think regular sex was enough to keep him around, nor ensure he would only sleep with her. "I know it's short notice, but I've already worked everything out with Jaken." She'd still be able to drive him around and do her job, so she doubted he'd care.

When she received another noncommittal response, she figured that was that.

Chapter Text

Moving out turned out to be a surprisingly nonchalant affair. Jaken helped her with the move, and it took less than two hours to get situated in her new apartment. Sure, it was small, but it was hers. It represented her new start.

She spent the next few days off work as a chauffeur while she made the necessary purchases and settled into her new home. She found a new job—a temporary one at a cafe. She also ducked Ito Satoshi's attempts to rehire her back to her old position now that she'd been exonerated. She didn't want to go back; it meant nothing now.

She had handed in her notice that morning; it was time to stand on her own.

From here on out she would only go forward.

So when her doorbell rang that evening, she was more than a little surprised. Aside from Jaken, no one else had her new address.

"Yes?" She glanced through the peephole and started when she saw a familiar head of silver hair.

Why?

Chapter Text

"You left." His voice was icy as Sesshomaru stepped into her apartment. He quickly surveyed it, but that only seemed to add to his displeasure as he turned back to her.

"I...told you I was?" She blinked, taken aback by the odd change in his demeanor. 

"You did not return." Hints of ruby blazed in his golden gaze as one hand clenched around a long white envelope. 

Still bemused by his reaction but resolving not to be pushed around by it, she quipped, "That is what it means to move out." 

Was that her resignation notice in his hand?

"You did not need to."

She pinched the bridge of her nose. "I can't just keep freeloading forever." He'd gotten what he wanted, and so had she. Wasn't it time they both moved on?

"Was there something you did not like?" Did he mean between them or with her job? She couldn't be sure one way or the other. As she tried to ascertain his meaning, he pressed, "Did you wish to change something? If you were displeased, Jaken could have provided you the—"

"Sesshomaru," she said gently, hoping she wasn't wrong, "did you want me to stay?"

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru did not immediately answer her, and her heart sank. Really, what had she expected?

"If you didn't, then you should go," Kagome said, moving to open her front door and shoo him out. Even if he did want her to stay, she didn't intend to move back in right away, anyway. She'd signed a lease for a year. If he did want her, then they'd live apart and date like normal people until the end of her lease, and if he didn't... "Look," she sighed when he continued to stand there, "I really have to—"

His lips found hers then. His kiss was fierce, almost brutally so, as he crushed her to him. "I wanted you to stay," he rumbled then against her lips.

"What about the other wo—" she began, only to be interrupted by another intense kiss.

"There has been no other." His kisses grew in ferocity as he steered her towards the small bedroom. "There will be no other save for you, Kagome. You are the only one I desire to keep." He reached for the door to her room. "It could only be you."

It wasn't exactly a passionate declaration of love, she thought, throwing her arms around his neck, but it would do. The rest, she was certain, would follow later.

Chapter Text

"Here." Kagome slid the dossier across the table. "It's everything you need to get your revenge. I hope," she smiled, tapping the folder, "that you can finally find your peace from this and move on."

Naraku had gone into hiding and so far had managed to evade the police investigation, but she doubted he’d be able to for much longer now. It had taken Sesshomaru a little time to put everything together, but he'd kept his word. Hoshiyomi would soon have the revenge he had sought for so long.

Hoshiyomi accepted the folder, but his eyes were on her shoulder and not the contents within. "So that is how it is, is it?"

She flushed. She had Sesshomaru's mark on her shoulder and his engagement ring on his finger now so that both humans and yokai would know she was taken. Sesshomaru had proven to be quite possessive in the months since they'd begun dating officially, though his romantic overtures were often haphazard at best. Still, he tried. "Something like that."

"Hnn." Hoshiyomi rose. "If he does not treat you well, you will inform me." He tucked the dossier under one arm. "You know how to find me."

And then he left, but not before she saw the quiet look of gratitude in his eyes.

Chapter Text

"You didn't have to wait for me, Sesshomaru," Kagome said, smiling as she climbed into the backseat beside her intended mate. "You better not be late for that big meeting at—"

His kiss interrupted the rest of her complaint. "Rest assured," he said, setting aside his tablet, "I will not be late. After all," he said, stealing another kiss, "I would not wish to disappoint the new human resources director."

She tried and failed to hide her grin. "I hear she's a real hardass," she murmured. "A real stickler for the rules. She even—"

He kissed her again, this time a deeper one that stole her breath. 

"I'm pretty sure this is considered fraternizing," she said when she had a moment to breathe again. "Maybe I should report you for—"

When he kissed her again, she abandoned any pretense of teasing and surrendered herself to his kisses.

They had time, after all, to indulge a little before Jaken arrived at the company headquarters and ushered them back to work. They might as well put it to good use.