Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“I still don’t get why you won’t go,” Kagome calls through the bathroom door. “It’s not like you have to marry the guy. It’s just a blind date. Let him pay for your dinner and have fun!”

On the other side of the door, Kagura sighs. “You don’t understand. Your family doesn’t care who you marry. They aren’t setting you up every week with a different person, hoping for a match that ends in lucrative stocks and the heir to an international conglomerate.”

Kagura talks about the future as if it is a business venture. Kagome frowns. She doesn’t think about it in those terms but, considering Kagura’s father, it makes sense. Kagura may no longer live under his roof, but no amount of distance can separate her from his shadow.  

“Have you tried talking to your dad?”

Kagura scoffs. Kagome hears her lean against the doorframe and imagines she has her arms crossed over her chest in her typical defensive stance. “My father,” she says the term with pure disdain, “doesn’t care how I feel. All he’s concerned with is becoming the most powerful man in Japan.”

Kagome doesn’t argue. Onigumo Naraku is the most ambitious person she has ever met. His determination would be admirable if he showed even an ounce of compassion. However, the only thing that parallels Naraku’s business prowess is his ruthless behavior. He operates as if life is a never-ending chess match. Each decision has been thoroughly calculated. Every reaction is anticipated with contingency plans and countermeasures in mind. Naraku leaves nothing up to chance. Not his latest product launch and certainly not the fate of his daughter’s future.  

The idea of him sending Kagura on these blind dates suddenly feels more like an auction than an appointment. Of course, setting up a bidding war for his daughter’s hand sounds like something Naraku would do. He expects Kagura to marry into an influential family, which is why she’s been meeting with the wealthiest bachelors in Tokyo. 

Kagome bites her lower lip. She knows Kagura has a tumultuous relationship with her father. He’s always been hard on her, partially because she’s the eldest and partially because he has no sons. Kagura and her younger sister, Kanna, are his only children. Naraku tried to instill his beliefs within them, including his bias regarding humans. His teachings worked on Kanna but Kagura has always been a free spirit. 

The fact that she’s a demon has never bothered Kagome. She judges people based on their actions, not how they were born— a trait that Kagura claims makes her unique. Naraku doesn’t share Kagome’s opinion. He considers demons superior to humans which is something he has in common with someone else Kagome knows.

Sesshomaru Taisho may be Tokyo’s most sought-after bachelor but he’s also the most infuriating person Kagome has ever met. Just thinking about the daiyokai has Kagome’s temper rising. The fact that he happens to be her superior in the office only adds to her irritation. Despite his successful strategic development plans— which have placed Taisho Enterprises as the top-grossing firm in the city three years running —Kagome doesn’t respect Sesshomaru. Nepotism granted him the role of CEO. In Kagome’s opinion, he’s done very little to earn the title.

What expertise Sesshomaru possesses in the boardroom, he lacks in compassion. From the moment he steps off the elevator onto their floor, his presence demands attention. His inspections of the departments are thorough and have caused more than one panic attack.

The man is a menace.

He can find a single comma out of place on an expense report or the sole grammatical error in a hundred-page document. If you’re unlucky enough to catch his eye, you might as well start packing up your things. Last week, it was a man on the third floor who forgot to update his footnote formatting.

Kagome runs a brush through her hair as she remembers how defeated the man looked while being escorted from the building. She can only imagine how terrified people would be if they knew what he really was.

Jerk, she thinks angrily, slamming the brush down with more force than is necessary.

“Are you okay in there?” Kagura asks.

“Yeah, almost ready,” Kagome replies.

She glances over at her cosmetics bag. Kagome doesn’t make it a habit to wear makeup. Unlike Kagura, she doesn’t spend her after-work hours dining downtown or attending fancy clubs. Her evenings usually consist of a quick meal and curling up on the couch with a book.

“Actually, maybe you should do my makeup,” she decides, opening the bathroom door.

Kagura pushes off the doorframe. Her eyes go wide as she takes Kagome in.

“You look fantastic! You should keep that,” she says, gesturing to the fitted dress Kagome is wearing.

The slinky, navy blue number still has tags on it from the designer store Kagura purchased it from. Kagome tried not to gape at the number she saw on the tag when she slid into it. The garment costs more than she makes in a month. She can’t possibly accept it.

Kagura waves off her refusal and ushers her over to the mirror. “Consider it a bonus. Now let’s get to work!”

Kagome shakes her head and lets her friend begin applying primer to her skin.

This is the first date she’s been on since college. Even if it’s only as a favor to Kagura, she’s nervous. What does she say to him? Will he ask her about Spyder Tech? Kagura already briefed her on the company highlights but Kagome barely remembers. She’d been too preoccupied with trying to emulate Kagura’s effortless confidence.

“If you’re not interested, why don’t you cancel on him? Why send a decoy?” she asks.

Kagura’s brow creases as she attempts to apply Kagome’s lip liner. “Because I have other plans tonight.”

“What plans?”

“I met someone,” Kagura reveals.

Kagome grabs her friend’s wrist, holding it away from her face. “What? Who?”

Kagura frowns. “No one my father would approve of,” she answers. Kagome hears the disappointment in her voice. 

“Did you meet her at work?”

“No,” Kagura responds, “I met her at one of my father’s parties.”

Kagome’s eyes go wide. “Seriously? How did that happen?”

Kagura sighs, pausing for a moment. “I don’t know. I wasn’t even planning on being there but then my father bribed my chauffeur and I ended up at the estate. He was scolding me for being late when she walked in. I’ve never seen anyone command a room like her,” Kagura admits. “One glance from her and my father was silenced.” 

“Tell me more,” Kagome prompts, giving her a reassuring squeeze.

That’s how she finds out about Arisu Aikawa. She belongs to one of the oldest inuyokai family lines. As such, she’s recognized as part of the daiyokai’s inner circle. Kagome tries not to think about what that means for her. The few demons in the inner circle that she’s met have all considered her beneath them. They don’t consider her humanity an asset; they see it as a weakness. 

The prejudice isn’t solely limited to humans. Kagome knows that hanyous— half-demons born of a demon and human union —are considered only a step above humans. There are also levels within the full-demon ranks. Kagura explained that it has to do with their familial lines and how powerful they are. Kagome acknowledges it but she has never understood their reasoning. A person should be viewed based on their actions, not how they were born or to whom. 

It seems unfair, especially when she thinks about demons like her friend, Kouga. The wolf demon works at a non-profit institution for less powerful demons and hanyous. He focuses on survival skills to help them blend into the human world and avoid detection. Kouga even teaches them trades such as carpentry and metal-working so they can secure employment. He’s a good guy. 

But not Kagura’s type, mainly because Kagura’s type is female. Unfortunately, that isn’t something she felt comfortable sharing with her father. Knowing Naraku, Kagome can understand her decision to keep the matter private. The only person who knows Kagura’s preference is Kagome. Because of that, Kagura’s longest relationship is their friendship.

She’s dated a few people but has never seriously been involved with anyone. Kagome knows that it is partially because Kagura is a free spirit who doesn’t like to be tied down. The other reason is that she needs someone stimulating– someone who can keep up with her clever mind. 

Based on how Kagura talks about Arisu, Kagome thinks she may have finally found the one. It’s the first time Kagome has ever seen Kagura unguarded and happy. Usually, that carefree side only comes out when they have a girls’ night in.

And usually, copious amounts of wine are involved.

Seeing her friend this way warms Kagome’s heart. So what if she has to go on a blind date to cover for Kagura? What’s one dinner with a stranger when it’s in the name of true love? Besides, she knows if their roles were reversed, Kagura would do the same for her.

“So what’s this guy’s deal?” she questions.

Kagura shrugs. “CEO of some company or another. To be honest, I don’t even read the name or look at the headshot when my father sends over the dossiers. They’re all the same anyway. I just memorize the logistics so I know when to show up and where.”

“Seriously? You don’t even know the guy’s name!” Kagome cries.

“What does it matter anyway? You’re meeting him in a public place and I’m sending you in a car,” Kagura reminds her.

Kagome tries not to fidget as Kagura does her mascara. The nerves are back. She considers telling Kagura that she can’t do this but then she thinks of how happy her friend looked when she talked about Arisu.

“I know I’m asking a lot. That’s why I have this,” she says, producing a check. Kagome’s eyes go wide at the number on the paper. “It should be enough to cover the renovation costs.” 

There’s no way Kagome can refuse now. Her family lives at an old shrine that is in desperate need of repairs. Kagome has been helping as much as she can but it’s not enough. The type of work the shrine requires takes more than money. They need to hire a team of contractors or cut their losses and sell the property.

“Alright,” she relents with a sigh. “Where am I meeting him?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

An hour later, Kagome is seated in Perilla Lounge, sipping a glass of wine and praying the alcohol steels her nerves. If the stilettos Kagura selected for her weren’t bad enough, she’s also wearing jewelry that equates to more than her annual salary. It takes every ounce of her willpower not to throw back the glass and order another.

Her outfit isn’t the only thing Kagura insisted on. Before Kagome left, Kagura instructed her to cover her pulse points in demon musk. Demons, especially daiyokais, have heightened senses. They can scent the difference between demons, hanyous, and humans based on smell alone.

Nervously, Kagome rubs her wrists together. She hopes Kagura’s timetable is correct. If their ruse is going to work, her date can’t discover that she’s human. Naraku would be furious. There is no telling what kind of punishment he’d inflict on Kagura. As for Kagome…

...well, he’s never been her biggest fan. 

She takes another sip of her wine. Kagome reminds herself that she’s doing this as a favor to Kagura. Plus, her family needs that money for their renovations before the bank takes the property from them. Once the check clears, Gramps and Mama won’t have to struggle. Her younger brother, Souta, will finally be able to play soccer instead of working odd jobs around town.

It’s just dinner, Kagome thinks. How bad could it be?

“Kagura Naraku?”

Kagome turns toward the deep voice. All the blood drains from her face as she takes in a familiar towering form. It’s like a scene from one of her nightmares— only instead of showing up to the office naked, she’s stuck with the surly CEO.

“Are you Miss Naraku?” Sesshomaru Taisho inquires.

All she can manage is a nod.

“Our table is ready.”

Kagome blinks, stunned by his response. Does he not recognize her? Sure, they’ve never been properly introduced— and she’s unrecognizable in her current attire— but still! There’s no way he doesn’t know. This has to be a joke. Right?

“Are you waiting for me to pay?” he questions, inclining his head toward her wine glass.

Kagome shakes her head, hoping the movement doesn’t dislodge the gold hairpin Kagura lent her to hold her sleek updo in place.

“Good.” He strolls out of the bar area and into the restaurant where a waiter is standing by a table for two.

Kagome is not sure what surprises her more— the way he treats this date like a business meeting or the fact that he didn’t fire her on the spot.

Eventually, her sense of preservation kicks in. She slips off her chair as delicately as possible and follows Mr. Taisho to their table. Kagome’s legs are shaking so badly that she can’t believe she makes it to her seat without toppling over.

The waiter hands her a menu, reviews the specials for the evening, along with the recommended wine pairing, and then leaves them to get acquainted. Kagome chews the inside of her cheek, wondering if she can make a break for it before Mr. Taisho notices who she is. If she called Kagura’s driver from the table, took off her heels in the lobby, and ran…

“I hope you’re under no misconceptions about what this is, Miss Naraku. I have no intentions of courting you or entering into negotiations with your father’s company,” Mr. Taisho informs her, not even bothering to look up from his menu.

Okay, well that’s just plain rude…

Regardless of Kagome’s feelings toward Spyder Tech or Kagura’s father, she doesn’t appreciate Mr. Taisho’s tone. He isn’t the only one who disapproves of Naraku and he certainly didn’t need to come here. Kagome wishes he hadn’t. If he had been a no-show, she could be at home right now, curled up with the latest Rumiko Takahashi novel. Instead, she’s stuck here. Annoyed, she crosses her arms over her chest. “What makes you think that I want to be here? Has it ever occurred to you that maybe I don’t like you either?”

His gaze lifts off the page to her face. “Considering that we just met, I doubt my personality is a factor in this equation.”

“Are you implying that I’m here for another reason?” 

“You tell me,” he prompts. 

“Perhaps, I will if you share your reason for coming here,” she counters.

Mr. Taisho sets his menu down. “I am honoring the wishes of my father. He would prefer that I take a mate.”

“And you? What do you prefer, Mr. Taisho?”

He folds his arms on the tabletop, staring across at her. “I believe I answered your question. Now, it’s your turn to answer mine.”

Kagome represses the urge to shiver. His voice may sound as smooth as honey but she can sense that he’s laying a trap. She thinks about what Kagura would do, then shifts in her chair, feigning indifference. "As you are already aware, my father wants me to have an advantageous marriage. This date is just one of dozens I’ve been forced to go on in order to secure that future.”

“His plan doesn’t interest you?” Mr. Taisho asks.

“A question for a question,” Kagome responds.

“Very well,” he agrees with the hint of a smirk. “I assume your last query will suffice?”

Kagome nods.

“I prefer not to be dependent on others,” Mr. Taisho answers. “A mating bond would make that impossible.”

“So you’re afraid of commitment?”

“I believe it is my turn,” he reminds her.

Kagome does her best impression of a Kagura sigh. One part scoff, add a heavy dose of arrogance and finish with a dramatic eye roll. “No, I don’t agree with my father’s plans. All he cares about is power.”

“And you find fault with that?” Mr. Taisho inquires.

She gives him a pointed look.

“I do not fear commitment. I believe, if you knew me, you’d find that I'm fiercely committed to my work.”

“That’s not the same thing,” Kagome argues, dropping her arms. “A career is important but it doesn’t give you what you need.”

“How so?”

“A paycheck covers living expenses. It doesn’t care for you when you’re sick or comfort you when you’re scared or cheer you on when you need encouragement. People do. The family we have and the friends we make along the way— they are what’s most important,” Kagome says.

She is surprised that he doesn’t have a rebuttal. Kagome heard stories from her manager about how combative Mr. Taisho is in the boardroom. Though his expression is unreadable, Kagome gets the sense that he’s genuinely interested in what she has to say. It spurs her to continue. 

“I believe some people use their career as a crutch. Instead of obtaining a balance between their job and their family, they build up this idea in their head that if they push themselves enough, they can achieve more— and sometimes that is true. But more often than not, people confuse ambition with deference. They claim they are working longer hours to secure a promotion when in reality what they’re doing is avoiding another fight with their spouse over finances. Or, if they are unhappy with their marriage, they choose to look for satisfaction somewhere else rather than confronting the problem.”

Mr. Taisho purses his lips. Kagome senses she may have hit a nerve but he doesn’t interrupt her. 

“Being driven in your career isn’t problematic as long as you can maintain balance,” she tells him. “In your case, I think you’re playing a part. For the company, you’re the leader. For your father, the devoted son. But what about for yourself? Are you really content to be alone? At the end of the day, are those shareholder reports going to satisfy you or will you swallow your pride and admit your father may be right?” 

Mr. Taisho unfolds his arms. “Do you believe you’ll achieve a balanced life through one of these matches when it has been orchestrated without any consideration for your preferences or values?” 

Kagome is aware they’ve gotten off their pattern but she can’t stop herself from answering him. Somewhere between pretending to be Kagura and trying to ensure Mr. Taisho doesn’t recognize her, she stopped acting as her friend and started being herself. “No, but that doesn’t mean I don’t believe I’ll find it one day. I could be like you— bury myself in work so deeply that all I see are the numbers instead of faces, statistics instead of personalities —but what would be the point? It won’t make me happy.” 

“To what end?” he asks.

“I would rather live my life knowing I tried than die asking myself ‘what if?’, wouldn’t you?” Kagome prompts.

“How will you know happiness when you find it?”

“I think to be truly happy you have to make those around you happy. Our relationships keep us connected. If you want the world to be better, you have to make an effort to improve it,” she tells him.

“How would you improve it, Miss Naraku?”

It isn’t until he says Kagura’s name that Kagome realizes she’s sitting on the edge of her seat, leaning forward on her elbows. Her cheeks heat and she settles back in her chair. The leather is cool along her spine, the open back of her dress giving her access to feel the smooth material. The sensation is grounding and she reminds herself that this is Sesshomaru Taisho she’s speaking to. He’s only here to get his father off his back. Any semblance of interest Kagome thought she saw was a farce. Mr. Taisho’s sole interest is his company. Like Kagura’s father, all he cares about is power and control. This conversation is meaningless to him —not worth a second thought.

He won’t give her a second thought. 

Kagome isn’t sure why that bothers her so much. It’s not as if she even knows him and he certainly doesn’t know her. So why is she so upset? She chalks it up to being hungry. “What does it matter?” she mutters, crossing her arms once more. 

“It appears that it matters a great deal to you,” Mr. Taisho observes.

“A lot of things matter to me, Mr. Taisho, but as you pointed out, we don’t know each other. This is a one-time thing. It doesn’t make us friends or even acquaintances. We’re just two people having dinner together to appease our parents. After tonight, we’ll go back to being strangers. Let’s leave it at that, shall we?”

“And if we weren’t?” he quips.

Kagome stiffens. Has he figured her out? Mr. Taisho leans back in his seat, regarding her with a gaze that could only be described as predatory. The golden hue of his eyes sparks with light as if a fire is burning behind those colorful irises. Kagome’s stomach somersaults.

Oh, Gods, I’m fired, she inwardly groans.

“I have a proposition for you,” Mr. Taisho says.

Kagome swallows thickly and strives to remain calm.

“Date me.”

She blinks, sure she’s misheard him. “Excuse me?”

“Date me,” Mr. Taisho repeats. “If we continue to see each other, our parents will be satisfied and cease to interfere with our lives.”

“Except for the fact that we can’t stand each other,” Kagome points out.

“To keep up appearances, we will have to meet occasionally,” Mr. Taisho responds.

“No.”

“Miss Naraku, neither of us is interested in the suitors our parents are selecting on our behalf. I, myself, have no intention of taking a mate— a position that I have made clear to my father numerous times. I assume your father is the same.”

Kagome thinks about what Kagura told her and nods.

“While I loathe deception, in this instance, it is a useful tool to ensure I have control over my life. You are not an ideal choice—,”

“Thanks,” Kagome says flatly.

“—However, I do not find your company irritating, which has been the case with all your predecessors. I believe this arrangement could be beneficial for both of us.” Mr. Taisho hands her his business card. “My direct line is written in the back. When you’ve come to realize that I am right, call that number. I will be waiting.”

With that, he stands, buttons his suit, and walks out.

Kagome watches him leave, wondering what the hell just happened.

Chapter Text

“Our division is on track to exceed our quarterly quota. We are forecasting record-breaking sales for next quarter which should result in us achieving our annual target before Q4,” the Vice President announces. 

Sesshomaru registers the content of his current meeting, cataloging the key points on the notepad in front of him. The increased revenue stream from his latest acquisition has pleased the shareholders. Their faith in his leadership remains steadfast. Sales are up which translates into morale being high. As long as he continues to fill his employees' bank accounts, they will be loyal. Like fear, greed is a powerful motivator, though less rewarding.

He longs for the days when drawing his sword sent men running away in terror. Life was simpler then. Sesshomaru was free to roam the country and do as he wished. But the world has changed over the last millennium. Yokai have become the subject of folklore. Now, he must adhere to the laws of humans.

And the will of his father.

His fingers pinch the writing implement until the resin cracks. The pen shatters, covering his notepad in ink.

“Sir!” his assistant exclaims.

Everyone in the boardroom falls silent and stares at him. His assistant, a meek human by the name of Hojo Ueda, frantically dabs at the notepad with his handkerchief. Sesshomaru eyes the piece of fabric with disdain. It is low-quality cotton, the kind that is produced for the masses. He would not tolerate its use on his skin but for his paperwork it is fine. He prefers not to get his silk one stained. Let his assistant deal with the mess. 

He settles into his chair, taking a fresh pen out of his folio. “Continue,” Sesshomaru orders.

The men exchange worried glances but proceed with their presentation.

Sesshomaru sees the graphs and projections his subordinates display on the screen. He has already reviewed these materials. He identified the weak points in their strategy and prepared a mitigation plan to ensure their ignorance does not tarnish his reputation. His father, Touga Taisho, has high expectations for success. Sesshomaru will deliver perfection. Once he manages to do that, his father will cease meddling in his personal affairs— namely his insistence that Sesshomaru take a mate.

Kagura Naraku is not the first woman his father has scheduled a blind date with. There were dozens of others from prominent yokai clans. Each meeting followed the same pattern. They would meet, have a drink, share a meal, exchange a few polite necessities, he would pay the bill, and leave. By the time Sesshomaru entered his car, he had already forgotten their name. He thought the pattern would repeat until his father gave up.

Then he met Ms. Naraku.

When Sesshomaru strolled into Perilla Lounge, his gaze landed on a figure in blue. Instinctually, he knew she was the woman he was supposed to meet. She stood out. The woman he had been set up with had an energy around her. She radiated warmth and light. He felt the unexpected urge to touch her, to see if that heat would spread through his skin. Sesshomaru ignored the impulse. 

His draw to the woman had nothing to do with her physical appearance. Though, he cannot deny that her choice of a bare-back dress was quite alluring. Similarly, her decision to wear her hair up to highlight her slender neck shows her understanding of inuyokai traditions. His clan bestows mating marks on their partner’s collarbone or neck. Baring either to a potential mate is considered an invitation. 

With that in mind, Sesshomaru regarded her more carefully. The first thing he noticed was her rigid posture. Her shoulders were rolled back but the hold was stiff. Beneath the cover of the bar, her feet swung back and forth. She was overflowing with anxious energy. It was not the behavior he expected of a fellow daiyokai. Those of their station were taught from a young age to adhere to proper etiquette. Nerves were meant to be contained not displayed. Evidently, she had not mastered that lesson. 

When he announced himself, her pulse quickened so rapidly that Sesshomaru thought she would faint. Her eyes widened. Blue is an uncommon eye color among yokai. He had been expecting red. In the dim light of the bar, it was difficult to discern the exact shade. Once they moved to their table, Sesshomaru realized her eyes contained varying hues of blue ranging from sapphire to aquamarine. He was intrigued to learn that the distribution shifted with her mood. 

However, the most perplexing trait he noticed was her scent. It was muddled. He could not pinpoint a specific profile. Layered scents are typical for females with small pups or a courting couple. Once mated, the couple’s scent becomes blended. Ms. Naraku is neither. He tried to place the components of her scent throughout the night but one of the layers seemed to fade the longer they sat at their table. Sesshomaru considers inquiring about it during their next date.

It has been three days since their dinner yet she has not called. Nor has she been far from his mind. In fact, Sesshomaru has been thinking about her so often that he’s begun to see her in the office. Sesshomaru scowls. This is why he refuses to take a mate. He cannot afford any distractions, especially not for something as trivial as romance. 

He should have requested her contact information. That way he could seek her out at his convenience as opposed to waiting for her to accept. Without it, he will be forced to attend another blind date. 

Unless…

He flips through his notes on the company’s most recent market analysis. When developing a sales strategy, he always considers current market trends, existing competitors, and the available opportunity pipeline. The same logic applies to his current situation.

Sesshomaru has seen the other options in the marketplace, namely, the long list of female daiyokai Touga forced him to meet. None of them offer him the solution he seeks. Ms. Naraku is different. She wants nothing to do with her father’s name or his plans to marry her off. This is what differentiates her from the other women he has met. In terms of available opportunities, if Sesshomaru can convince her to date him, his time will be his own. He can meet with her once a week and focus on his business the remainder of the time. There will be no further interruptions from his father, no more impromptu meeting requests, or unplanned interactions. He can do as he pleases.

The presentation concludes with handshakes and promises to perform well. Sesshomaru leaves to attend his next meeting. 

Mr. Ueda trails behind him, reciting his upcoming appointments. Sesshomaru has his schedule memorized. He does not require a reminder. Permitting his assistant to complete the verbal rundown benefits him in a different way. It shows his employees that he is a diligent leader. His days are filled from sunrise to sunset for the betterment of the company. They should be grateful. 

Just like Ms. Naraku. 

It is clear to Sesshomaru that she does not understand what he is offering her. If she did, she would have called. Throughout the remainder of his day, he contemplates how to ensure Ms. Naraku’s cooperation.

The biggest hurdle is contacting her. He assumed she would reach out to him but it seems her response will not be a timely one. Sesshomaru cannot afford to wait. Any further delay will result in his father getting involved. If Ms. Naraku refuses to come to him, then he will go to her.

“Mr. Ueda?”

“Yes, sir?”

“Cancel my dinner order for this evening.”

“Aren’t you planning on working late tonight, sir?”

“Not anymore. Make a reservation for two at Sezanne.”

His assistant halts in the center of the hallway, brow creased. “Two, sir?” 

“Yes, and tell my driver to arrive early. I have a stop to make on the way to the restaurant.”

Mr. Ueda stares at him, utterly confused. “Sir?”  

“I need to pick up my girlfriend.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

I will be waiting.

Kagome bites down on the end of her thumb. It has been a few days since she met the company CEO but the butterflies in her stomach haven’t quit flapping around. She can’t stop thinking about him.

Sesshomaru Taisho is the most intimidating man Kagome has ever met. The stories she’s heard haven’t been exaggerated. From the second he approached her to the moment he left, Mr. Taisho was cool, collected, and irritating curt. It’s no surprise why he wants a contractual relationship. He has the charm of a stone wall.

Still… the way he looked at her when he proposed this insane idea was different. There was an intensity in his gaze but it wasn’t the same cold, calculating glare she expected to see. There was a light there. Kagome thought it might be hope.

Hope? She snorts. What does he need her for? He is a wealthy bachelor, a successful businessman, and part of one of the oldest families in the country. His name carries more weight than her all her family’s assets combined. If she doesn’t date him, he’ll just go find someone who will. He may be a jerk but some people can overlook that— as long as they are compensated well. Considering the menu prices at Perilla Lounge, Kagome is certain Mr. Taisho can pay for someone to moonlight as his girlfriend. He doesn’t need her.

“Higurashi?”

It’s better this way, she tells herself. Accepting his offer would mean continuing to sneak around the office. The morning after their date, Kagome nearly boarded the same elevator as Mr. Taisho. Luckily, he was too busy scrolling through his phone to notice her slip out before the doors closed.

“Higurashi?”

Then there was the incident yesterday. Kagome had stepped out on an afternoon coffee run. On her way out, she spotted Mr. Taisho exiting a meeting with her supervisor. She ducked into the restroom and counted to one hundred before poking her head out to make sure the coast was clear.

The old saying, ‘Third time’s a charm’ mocks her. She prays nothing happens today.

A hand slams down on her desk, startling her. Kagome finds her manager glaring down at her. “Higurashi, did you hear a word I said?”

“Sorry, sir. I was problem-solving,” she apologizes, turning around in her chair to address him. She plasters a professional smile on her face. “What can I help you with?”

He sighs, annoyed. “Do you have the quarterly CSAT metrics compiled yet?”

Kagome spins in her chair to retrieve a Manila folder with the printed reports. “Yes, I finished them this morning. I just need Mr. Tsujitani’s signature. He said he’d stop by after lunch.”

Her manager makes a face. “Mr. Tsujitani is meeting with the CEO this afternoon. Leave them on his desk for him to sign before you leave for the day.”

“Yes, sir.”

He stalks off and Kagome releases the breath she’s been holding.

Her manager, Mr. Takumi, has been on edge all quarter. Kagome can’t blame him. Last quarter, their customer satisfaction scores dropped by three percent. The negative feedback had been a product of the recent merger Mr. Taisho launched.

Some clients from the former company felt that the transition could have been handled better. Kagome and her peers had developed a step-by-step guide to assist clients through the onboarding process. Unfortunately, before they got Marketing’s approval to distribute the collateral, several clients transitioned over. Kagome worked more overtime that month than she did the entire year prior.

She asked Marketing to take responsibility for the delay. Their director refused. Mr. Inada claimed he never got the documentation.

Kagome had a run-in with Mr. Inada when she started at Taisho Enterprises. She caught him pouring something into a female assistant’s drink. Upset, she dumped it out. It wasn’t until later that Kagome realized she had destroyed her proof. Since then, Mr. Inada did everything within his power to disrupt her projects.

If he knew how close she’d come to being fired the other night, he’d be thrilled.

Losing this job isn’t an option. Kagura may have given her the money for the latest round of renovations but the work is never done. Maintaining an ancient shrine requires special permits, constant upkeep, and an unending supply of patience.

Kagome needs a stable job to ensure her family doesn’t lose their ancestral home. She can’t let people like Mr. Inada get to her. 

The chime of her cell interrupts her thoughts. Kagome quickly silences her phone. She glances around to see if anyone heard the noise and is surprised to find herself alone. She checks the time. Her clock reads 17:28. Time to go home. 

As she gathers her belongings, her cell rings. This time, she doesn’t hesitate to answer. 

“Hey, Kagura.”

“What did you do?”

Kagome freezes. Over the course of their friendship, Kagura has only used this tone with her a few times. The worst one happened during middle school. They’d been friends for about a month. Each time they hung out after school, Kagura came to the shrine. Kagome didn’t even know where Kagura lived. Her friend lashed out when she asked about having a sleepover at Kagura’s home.

When Kagura apologized, Kagome learned about yokai-human prejudice. She didn’t ask to visit again. 

“What do you mean?” Kagome asks tentatively.

“My father called me. He sounded happy. Can you believe that? Happy! Do you want to know why he was happy, Kagome?”

“Uh….sure,” she replies.

“Because apparently, I’m dating that guy from the other night. Mr. Bigshot CEO whose name I don’t even remember.”

“Taisho. Sesshomaru Taisho,” Kagome answers for her.

“Exactly. Now my father is talking about marriage and mergers and— wait, did you say Taisho? As in?”

Kagome pinches the bridge of her nose and closes her eyes. “Yeah.”

Kagura’s tone instantly changes from peeved to concerned. “Where are you right now?”

“I just got done work. I’m packing up to head over to the station. I should be home in about an hour.”

“Stay there. I’ll pick you up.”

Kagome starts to tell her not to bother but the click of the call ending cuts her off. If there is one thing she knows about Kagura, it’s that once her friend decides to do something, there is no stopping her. It’s a trait they have in common. 

She drops her phone into her purse and proceeds downstairs. 

In the lobby, people pass her. Other office workers are leaving for the day, delivery personnel dropping off packages, and a frazzled assistant, who looks familiar. It is the latter who catches her attention while she waits.

As the man presses the elevator button, Kagome realizes where she knows him from. She pushes off the wall. “Hojo?”

He turns toward her and his eyes soften. “Kagome?”

“It’s nice to see you,” she says.

“You too,” he returns, taking in her attire. “Do you work here?”

“Yeah, I’m in Client Relations on the fourth floor. What about you?”

“I’m the CEO’s assistant.”

The color drains from her face. “W-Wow, you work for Mr. Taisho?”

“Yeah,” Hojo confirms, rubbing the back of his neck bashfully. “I got promoted earlier this year.”

“Congratulations,” Kagome replies, working to keep her voice even. “Are you on your way up to see him?”

“No, he’s gone across town for dinner. I’m staying behind to finish some reporting.”

Kagome audibly sighs in relief. “Oh, that’s good.” Hojo tilts his head, obviously thrown by her choice of words. “Uh, not good that you’re working late. Good that you have an important job. It must be very rewarding to be so close to the CEO, though I’ve heard he’s strict.”

Hojo gives her a friendly smile. “He’s not so bad. Mr. Taisho is actually a very hard worker. He puts in more hours than my former managers combined. It’s why I’m glad he’s taking tonight off.” 

“Off?” Kagome asks.

“It’s rare that he doesn’t spend the evening working overtime in his office.” Hojo leans in, lowering his voice. “But tonight, he has a good reason. Mr. Taisho is going on a date. He had me make a dinner reservation for two at Sezanne.” 

She blinks. 

Hojo mistakes her stunned expression for confusion. “It’s the french restaurant in the Four Seasons hotel,” he clarifies. 

Kagome nods, pretending she knows the place. Kagome’s extent of eating out consists of take-away from her favorite fried chicken shop and nibbling on Kagura’s leftovers. Her family has never had money to spend on going out. What meals they shared, they made themselves. The food was plentiful but it was nothing like the fancy dishes prepared in the restaurants downtown. 

Her jealousy over Mr. Taisho’s dinner plans lasts less than a minute. If he’s out on a date, then that means he’s forgotten about his ludicrous proposal. She’s off the hook! 

Beaming, she reaches for her phone to update Kagura only to see her best friend’s name come up on the screen. 

“I have to get going. Good luck with your paperwork.” Kagome gives him a wave and crosses the lobby. 

Kagome sees Kagura’s sleek, white Lexus through the entrance doors. Naraku prefers his daughter use a driver but Kagura likes racing through Tokyo. She says she enjoys the rush. Her hobby has earned her more than one speeding violation, though her record reflects none. There isn’t anyone Kagura can’t charm. That includes the city’s police force.

When she sees Kagome approach, the passenger window rolls down. “Get in.”

No sooner has Kagome closed the door, than her friend is pulling away from the curb. “You’re in a hurry.”

“Arisu and I are having dinner,” she responds.

"So I shouldn't wait up," Kagome surmises.

Kagura's lips pinch together. “Why didn’t you tell me that the guy you met is the CEO of your company?”

Kagome leans back in her seat, gazing out the window. “I didn’t know until he showed up. What was I supposed to do? Run away?” She doesn’t mention that she had planned to do exactly that.

“Are you sure he didn’t recognize you?”

“If he did, I would have been fired by now,” Kagome says. Then, with a small smile, she adds, “You should be proud. Kanna’s formula worked. The musk was a success.”

Kagura doesn’t comment. Her brows knit together as she thinks over these new details.

Ever since they were young, the wind demoness has been protective of Kagome.

They met in middle school. Kagome was running late to class. She bumped into Kagura and sent the other girl’s papers flying. As Kagome apologized, she noticed something unique about Kagura.

“I like your eyes.”

Kagura was surprised that Kagome could see through her glamour and shocked that she remained unfazed. Kagome hadn’t realized what an impact her observation had. She’d been born with her abilities but her family had never treated her differently because of them.

Well, except for her grandfather, who insisted she learn the history of everything. It was because of Gramps that Kagome understood Kagura’s reservations. The history of miko and yokai relationships was not a positive one. So Kagome decided to change that starting with Kagura.

She waited for Kagura every day, walked with her to class, sat with her at lunch, and invited her to WacDonald’s with Yuka, Eri, and Ayumi. Kagura was unfazed. She told Kagome numerous times that she didn’t want or need her help. Kagome didn’t give up. Her other friends encouraged her to let it go, claiming she was too stubborn for her own good. Kagome didn’t listen. She kept approaching Kagura.

The wind demoness ignored the attempts until the day she showed up at school with burns. Kagome was the only one who saw her damaged flesh. And it was Kagome who healed her.

After that, Kagura’s reservations vanished. She and Kagome became inseparable. They studied together, shopped together, and even roomed together on class trips. Mama always teased Kagome, saying that they are attached at the hip. Throughout their school days, Kagura was a regular visitor to the Higurashi household. When Kagura moved out of her father’s house, she invited Kagome to come with her. They’ve been roommates ever since.

Kagura is the closest thing Kagome has ever had to a sister. They’ve shared secrets, fears, hopes, and dreams. She doubts there is anyone in this world who knows her quite like Kagura. There isn’t anything Kagome wouldn’t do for her.

Which is why she’s willing to risk her job to keep up this ruse.

“If he didn’t recognize you, then why does he think we’re dating? I thought you said he wasn’t interested in you.”

“He’s not. Mr. Taisho proposed a mutually-beneficial arrangement. He’s being pressured by his father to find a mate. Since you’re being pressured to do the same— and you aren’t interested in each other —, he suggested continuing to date. That way you are both free to do as you please while avoiding your familial obligations,” Kagome explains.

“I don’t like it.”

“Which part?”

“All of it!” Kagura cries. “This guy is using you. He sounds just like my father. I don’t want you getting involved with him.”

“Well, to be fair, I’m using him too,” Kagome points out.

Kagura rolls her eyes. “It’s not the same thing.”

She crosses her arms defensively. “Why? Because I’m a poor, lowly human and he’s a super wealthy daiyokai?”

“That’s not what I meant,” Kagura responds softly.

“I can take care of myself.”

“I know.” Kagura chuckles. “Even without your powers, you could probably kick my ass.” She shifts sideways to nudge Kagome with her elbow. “Hey, remember that time in middle school when the gym teacher said if one of us could hit the center of the target, we could take a break for the rest of class?”

Kagome smiles. “Yeah.”

“The look on his face!”

“He never made that offer again.”

They delve into laughter. For a moment, everything is normal. Work is done for the day. She’s hanging out with her best friend. There is no stress.

Then Kagura’s cell rings. Her father’s assistant’s name, Muso, appears on the screen. 

“What?” she snaps.

“Miss, there is a Mr. Taisho here for you. He claims that you two have dinner plans this evening.”

Kagura stares at Kagome who is too shocked to speak. Was that what Hojo meant when he said Mr. Taisho had a date? But she hasn’t agreed to anything yet! How could they have a date if she hasn’t accepted?

“I’m not coming back to the office. Tell him to reschedule.” 

A deep voice speaks in the background. Kagome can’t make out the words, but from the tone, she can tell Mr. Taisho is angry. 

Muso clears his throat. “Miss, Mr. Taisho has asked me to convey his disappointment. He feels that your excuse is unacceptable and expects you to meet him at Sezanne.” 

Kagura hangs up. She glances over at Kagome, takes in her startled expression, and shakes her head. “This guy,” she mutters angrily. “Who does he think he is ordering me around? Dating or not, he can’t show up at my office unannounced.”

“It’s my fault. I never called him,” Kagome laments.

“Why is that your fault? It’s his fault for not taking a hint. Jerk!” Kagura slaps the steering wheel. A slew of curse words follows, none of which paint a nice picture of Mr. Taisho. Kagome fidgets in her seat. She’s wondering how they’ll get out of this when Kagura turns to her with a sly smile. “Actually, this is a good thing.”

“What?”

“This is the perfect opportunity for you to reject his proposal. I'll take you to the restaurant and you can tell him no.”

“I can’t just say no!”

“Why not?” Kagura argues.

“He’s going to want a reason.”

“Tell him that he’s not your type.”

Kagome frowns. “That’s mean.”

“How is that mean? It’s the truth, isn’t it? Aren’t you the one who is always complaining about what an insufferable ass he is?” Kagura reminds her.

“Yeah, but—.”

“Tell him you don’t date rude guys and wash your hands of this whole mess.”

“What about you and Arisu? When your dad finds out you’re not dating Mr. Taisho, he’ll set you up on another blind date,” Kagome says. 

“I’ll figure it out.”

Kagome chews on her lower lip. She feels like she’s letting Kagura down. Kagome wants her best friend to be happy. How can that happen if Naraku forces his daughter to be with someone she doesn’t love?

Kagura takes a sharp right, sending Kagome crashing into the door. She winces and rubs her shoulder. “What are you doing? Where are we going?”

“Detour. If you’re going there as me, you need to dress like me.”

Chapter Text

“I can’t wear this!”

“You can and you will,” Kagura returns evenly.

Kagome scans her reflection in the mirror. No matter how many times she looks at herself, she can’t believe what she sees. She knows Kagura’s style is different from hers. Kagura prefers vibrant colors and designer brands, while Kagome’s primary focus is comfort. She figured Kagura would make her wear something similar to the other evening. Instead, her friend opts for a tailored women’s suit.

The fitted material clings to her body tightly. She feels like a fish out of water and this suit is the net that caught her. Kagome wonders how she got here. The shop’s dressing room is more spacious than her bedroom. When they arrived, the associates hovered around Kagura, eager for her business. One brought her tea, while another brought over the latest handbag. Kagura dismissed both.

“I want that,” she announced, pointing to the garment on display. 

Moments later, Kagome is outfitted in a design that deserves to be showcased on the red carpet. The interior lining is silk. It is cool against her skin, helping offset the heat of her embarrassment. Kagome has one suit in her closet. It is a standard black two-piece set that she saves for important meetings. This suit is nothing like hers.

The set Kagura selected is a rich emerald color. Ivory lapels accent the front. The jacket dips beneath her breastbone, showing off her collarbone and hinting at the curves on her chest. She’s never bared so much skin publicly. Not even her swimsuit plunges this low.

“At least let me put on a blouse underneath,” Kagome pleads.

“No. This outfit is your power suit.”

Kagome doesn’t feel powerful. She feels exposed. “I have clothes.”

“And they aren’t doing your figure any favors,” Kagura comments. “You should toss them.” 

“I can’t afford new ones! You know all my extra money goes to the shrine!”

“The renovations have been paid for,” Kagura reminds her. “You need to start taking care of yourself, instead of everyone else, Kagome. I suggest retail therapy. It always makes me feel better. Your closet could use an overhaul.” 

Kagome looks at her pile of discarded office wear. “I still want my old clothes.” 

Her friend sighs, relenting. “Fine. I’ll have the store associates bag them up to take home.” Kagura moves off her perch on the changing room’s couch. She comes to stand next to Kagome. “Think of it this way— when are you going to have the chance to mouth off to your boss like this? You have a golden opportunity to do what most employees dream of doing their entire lives. The best part is that there won’t be any consequences because he thinks you’re me.”

Kagome gnaws on her lower lip. “I guess that’s true.”

It’s not like she has to wear the suit forever. She’s meeting with Mr. Taisho to tell him no. After that, she can hail a taxi and go home. After tonight, this whole crazy mess will be over. Kagome can go back to her regular, boring routine. There won’t be any more impromptu dinner meetings or confusing encounters with her CEO. She can live her life in peace. 

But before that, she’s going to get her shot in. Kagura is right. She needs to make the most of this opportunity. Mr. Taisho should know exactly how his employees feel. If he really is as diligent as Hojo claims, he’ll take the criticism as constructive feedback. If not…well, at least he doesn’t know Kagome‘s true identity.

“Alright, let’s do this!”

“That’s the spirit!” Kagura cheers, patting her on the shoulder. “Now, on to the shoes.”

“What?”

Thirty minutes later, Kagome has transformed from a modest office worker into a femme fatale. Kagura purchased her another pair of stilettos. The patent leather, strappy sandals are as beautiful as they are painful. She doesn’t look at their price tag. Kagome knows she can’t afford them and she definitely can’t afford to faint from sticker shock.

The shoes are followed by a quick trip to the salon. Kagome receives a blowout and makeup application. Kagura instructs the cosmetologists on what to do. Her attention to detail astounds Kagome. Now she understands why it takes so long for Kagura to get ready. This isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon.

By the time they are done, Kagome isn’t sure who is more exhausted, her or the beauticians. The substantial tip Kagura provides appears to elevate their mood. They leave with wide grins on their faces.

“What are you waiting for?” Kagura prompts. “Take a look.”

Kagome unclenches her hands and turns toward the vanity. What she sees causes her to gasp.  

It’s like a scene from a movie where the humble heroine is assisted by a collection of woodland creatures or a fairy godmother. Instead of singing sidekicks, Kagome has a team of hired professionals. No one would call Kagura a fairy godmother— unless they were looking to get slapped. The term generous benefactor comes to mind. Kagome can think of no other way to describe her best friend. What she’s accomplished is miraculous.

“I don’t even recognize myself,” Kagome remarks in awe.

Kagura smiles knowingly. “Dress to impress. You never know who’s watching.”

“The only person who will be watching tonight is Mr. Taisho.”

“That guy may be your target but I guarantee from the moment you step into that restaurant, all eyes will be on you.”

Kagome’s expression falters. She swallows audibly. “Really?”

“Own it,” Kagura says, giving her arm a reassuring squeeze. “Not everyone can pull off this style. Make some heads turn. Enjoy the attention.” She gives Kagome a salacious wink in the mirror. “Who knows, maybe you’ll find someone to date for real after you dump what’s his name.”

“Sesshomaru Taisho.”

Kagura waves her hand dismissively. “Whatever.”

“You can’t consider it a break-up if we weren’t dating in the first place.”

Kagura fixes her with a look. “Have you told him that? He seems rather persistent.”

“That’s just how he is. He’s not used to things not going his way,” Kagome replies.

“Sounds like he has an inflated ego.”

“Yeah,” Kagome agrees but the normal fire she feels when talking about the CEO isn’t there. For some reason, she feels sorry for Mr. Taisho. Maybe it’s because his father is forcing him to attend blind dates like Kagura. Or maybe it’s because she can’t stop thinking about the way he looked at her the other night. 

“Let’s go,” her friend says.

Kagura leads Kagome out of the dressing room. She hands the store associate her credit card to pay for their purchases. As they wait, Kagura glances at her watch and curses. “I’m going to be late.”

“You don’t have to drop me off at the restaurant. I can take the bus,” Kagome offers.

The store associate‘s expression pinches as if she’s just caught a whiff of spoiled milk.

“Don’t be ridiculous!” Kagura cries. “You can’t ride public transit dressed like that. I’ll take you.” She grabs her card from the associate and proceeds out to the car.

“Thank you for your help,” Kagome tells the woman, bowing.

She does an odd mix of shuffling and scurrying to match Kagura’s brisk pace. More than once, Kagome stumbles. Luckily, each time, she is close enough to a wall or lamppost to steady herself. She’d hate for all of Kagura’s hard work— and money —to go to waste.

When they enter the car, there are five missed calls from Muso on Kagura’s phone. She tosses her cell into the backseat.

“Don’t you need that?”

Kagura shrugs. “If it was important, he’d leave a voicemail.”

Kagome doesn’t agree. Muso has been around long enough to know that Kagura doesn’t listen to her messages. “Did you text Arisu to let her know you were running late?” Kagome asks.

“I called her while you were getting changed.”

“Sorry about this,” Kagome apologizes. “I hope they don’t give your table up.”

Kagura wears a smug grin. “We don’t have a reservation. We’re staying in.”

“Oh.” Kagome’s cheeks burn. “Did you pack an overnight bag?”

“It’s in the trunk,” Kagura adds, looking rather pleased with herself.

“I’m glad you’re happy.”

“I am. Arisu…she gets me. We never talk about work or our clans.” She scoffs. “We barely talk about our families. But I know her. I know what her favorite book series is, how she likes her tea, and even what scares her. Spoiler alert: not much. For the first time, in a long time, I don’t need to hide who I am. She accepts me– the good, the bad –all of it.” Kagura pauses, smiling as she adjusts her grip on the steering wheel. “When I’m with her, I feel free.”

“She sounds wonderful. I hope I’ll get the chance to meet her.”

“You will. I’ve been meaning to bring her by the apartment so I can introduce you. Arisu wants to meet both of my sisters.”

Hearing Kagura speak of their relationship that way catches her off-guard. Kagome knows her friend loves her but it’s rare for Kagura to say so. Naraku taught his daughters to bury their emotions. Years later, Kagura still struggles with opening up about the things that matter the most to her.

“Ask Arisu if she has a nephew or a handsome son she could introduce me to,” Kagome teases, trying to lighten the mood.

Kagura laughs. “I’ll see what I can find out.”

They arrive at the Four Seasons. Within seconds, a valet is rushing to open Kagome’s door. 

Kagura snaps the locks in place before he can reach them. She rests her weight on the center console and leans over. “You’re going to march in there, tell that guy exactly what you think of him, and refuse his proposal. Then you’re going to leave. Got it?”

“Got it,” Kagome confirms.

Kagura hands her a wad of bills. “Here’s money for a taxi. Get in, get out, and call me when you’re home safe.”

“What about your plans?”

“Text me,” Kagura revises her request. “We can debrief tomorrow after I get home.”

“I’ll see you then,” Kagome confirms. She wraps her arms around her friend. “Be safe. Have fun.”

“You too,” Kagura returns.

Kagome releases her with a nod.

“Wait!” Kagura cries. She rummages around in her purse. “Don’t forget this.” She thrusts a small vial of amber liquid into Kagome’s hands.

Kagome hastily pockets the musk in her blazer. “Thanks.”

Kagura nods.

The locks click off and the valet opens her door. He offers her his hand. “Welcome to the Four Seasons, Miss. May I escort you to your room?” 

“No, thank you. I won’t be staying,” she informs him, stepping out of the car. “Could you point me in the direction of Sezanne, please?”

He bows. “Of course, Miss. Right this way.”

Kagome glances over her shoulder at Kagura. Her friend gives her a thumbs up before Kagome’s line of vision is obstructed by the passenger door closing. She takes a deep breath and follows the valet inside.

The man takes her to an elevator bay marked private. He inserts a key below the button panel. A single button lights up and he presses it. The double doors slide open with a chime.

He gestures for her to enter. “Enjoy your meal, miss.”

“Thank you.”

When the doors close, Kagome sees herself in the polished steel. For a second, she actually believes that she is Kagura. The painted lips and smokey eyes are not her style. Neither are luxury brands. The one thing Kagome likes is her hair. It has never been this soft and voluminous. Kagome should have asked the stylists what product they used, though she doubts it is affordable.

Kagome shuffles from side to side. Her courage is fading fast. As the elevator climbs to the roof, she feels herself becoming smaller and smaller. She wants to get this over with. The sooner Kagome tells him no, the better. 

Nervously, she jabs the button for Sezanne. The elevator does not go any faster. Sighing, she shoves her hands in her pockets. Her right hand closes around a glass vial.

The musk!

Kagome opens the container, frantically dabbing her pulse points with the serum. She tucks the vial away as the elevator announces her arrival. The doors open to reveal an extravagant restaurant. 

In the entryway, a man stands behind a booth. The maître d raises his eyes expectantly. “May I help you?”

“Could you tell me where I can find Mr. Taisho, please?”

“Of course, Miss. Please follow me.”

The interior of the restaurant reminds Kagome of a first-class lounge at the airport as opposed to a dining room. People are seated on leather couches and sweeping-back chaises. The tables are small. They look disproportionate to the large chairs. They’d be more appropriate as end tables in a hotel. The entire setting seems impractical.

Kagome is glad she’s only staying for a few minutes. She’s never felt more out of place in her life.

The maitre d’ leads her to the corner of the restaurant where a single table with two chairs sits away from the rest of the patrons. One chair is already occupied. Kagome recognizes the silver-white hair and angular features of her CEO. He is angled forward, focused on the stack of papers covering his half of the table.  

“Mr. Taisho, your guest has arrived. Have a good evening, sir.” The maitre d’ bows and leaves them.

Mr. Taisho doesn’t glance up from his paperwork to greet her. Instead, he makes a simple observation. “You’re late.”

Kagome gapes at him. The unease she originally felt is overtaken by indignation. Kagura was right. This guy is an absolute jerk!  

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The woman does not respond. She continues to stand at his side, unmoving. Sesshomaru frowns. What is she waiting for? If Ms. Naraku wishes to humiliate herself, she should do so when he is not present.

“Sit down,” Sesshomaru commands.

“No.”

He blinks, certain he must have misheard. “Pardon?”

“I said no. I’m not having dinner with you.”

Sesshomaru’s attention snaps from his reports to her. He is struck by the barely contained fury he sees in her eyes. It is directed solely at him. “Why not?”

“You never asked.”

“I thought we had reached an understanding, Ms. Naraku.”

“You thought wrong,” she snaps.

A few people pause to eavesdrop on their conversation. “Keep your voice down,” he warns.

High society is ruled by more than trust funds and the latest trends. People at his level often grow bored with wealth and move on to trading other things. Information is usually the currency of choice. If Sesshomaru doesn’t get control of the situation, it will only be a matter of minutes before news of his failure reaches his father.

“Your act may work on other people, Mr. Taisho, but you don’t scare me.”

Clearly.

Sesshomaru is under no misconception about her attitude. He wouldn’t have suggested a contractual relationship if he didn’t believe Ms. Naraku was indifferent. She is the first to challenge him. Despite her anxious demeanor, Ms. Naraku doesn’t wilt under his stare. She is not easily intimidated. It is a valuable trait if he seeks to deceive his father. Touga won’t believe Sesshomaru is courting anyone if they can’t hold their own against him.

“Why are you here?” he inquires.

“To give you my answer. I’m declining your proposal.”

This is unexpected. Sesshomaru was convinced she would approve of his plan. This is a setback but he can recover. Once Sesshomaru learns her reason for refusing, he can leverage that to change her mind. This will not be a wasted opportunity. 

He gestures to the chair across from him. “Please take a seat.”

“No, thank you.”

“Ms. Naraku, while I appreciate the strength of your convictions, I doubt the waitstaff wishes to maneuver around you. For your safety, as well as the safety of the other patrons, please sit down.”

Her cheeks flush. He’s caught her off guard. She glances around, noting the number of people subtly watching. “Okay, but only for a minute.”

Sesshomaru delights in his momentary victory. He needs to maintain his momentum. If he can refute all of her reasons for rejecting him, she’ll have no choice but to accept. His father won’t require him to attend more blind dates. He laces his fingers together and rests his elbows on the table. “You have sixty seconds to present your argument.”

Her eyes go wide. “Wait, what? That’s not—.”

“Your time starts now.”

There is a brief pause. Then, Ms. Naraku takes a deep breath and launches into her hurried response. “You’re a workaholic. All you care about is profit margins and stock prices. You are so consumed by numbers that you fail to recognize how hard your employees work to earn your respect. Not that you grasp the concept of the word. You treat everyone like they are beneath you. Take your assistant for example. Hojo is so rundown it’s a miracle he hasn’t collapsed. Have you ever thanked him for his efforts? Have you ever thanked anyone? Or do you assume everyone is just so happy to work for you that expressing your gratitude isn’t necessary? Compassion isn’t a weakness. Stop acting like you know how to be a better leader than your father. You’ve had some preliminary success but you need more than an Ivy-league education and luck to keep a corporation like Taisho Enterprises afloat. You need the support of your people. No one is going to rally behind a big jerk!”

Sesshomaru does not know if she stops because time is up or if she is forced to from lack of breath. Her chest heaves. Her skin is flushed. She has the appearance of a runner who just crossed the finish line after an uphill race. Her body may be fatigued, but her eyes shine brightly from the win.

He smirks. “Is that all?”

She sighs, exasperatedly. “Why don’t you just pay someone to pretend to date you? Why do you need me?”

“I chose you.”

This response appears to throw her. She blinks several times as color rises in her cheeks. He observes the way she shifts in her seat, hands wringing together in her lap. “There’s nothing special about me. You said so yourself. I’m not ideal.”

“No, what I said was you are not an ideal choice. My comment was not directed at you personally but at you as a member of your clan. As I’m sure you are aware, Spyder Tech competes with Taisho Enterprise’s technology division. Dating the eldest daughter of their CEO could be considered a conflict of interest. However, I believe the benefits of our arrangement outweigh the risks.”

She gathers her composure and crosses her arms. “How do you know I won’t use you to give us an edge in the market?”

“Is this your goal?” he questions.

Ms. Naraku turns away, unable to meet his gaze. “Maybe.”

“I’ll take it under advisement.”

“My answer is still no,” she states defiantly.

“Because you find my attitude appalling and think my priorities are misaligned?”

“Yes.”

“I understand,” he says, gathering his paperwork. “I will refrain from working in the evenings when we are together.”

Her arms drop as she stares at him. “What?”

“As for my attitude, I will strive to become a more approachable and generous employer. Perhaps I should take each of my departments out. Team dinners seem to bolster morale. There’s also the option of traveling outside the city for a group hike or a similar excursion. It could be viewed as a team-building exercise. I will look into both starting tomorrow. For now,” he reaches across the table to take her hand, “you have my undivided attention.”

A spark of energy ignites the second his skin comes in contact with hers. Sesshomaru flinches. He’s never experienced pain at the hand of another yokai before. Instinctively, he tightens his grip, urging the phenomenon to repeat.

“Let go!” She yanks free of his grasp and rubs her hand. 

Sesshomaru notes the change in her scent. One of the layers becomes definable. Strawberries. He inhales, attempting to discern another note. Vanilla. The rest of her scent remains muddled, like his thoughts. Sesshomaru has met Onigumo Naraku before. He possessed neither strawberry nor vanilla notes in his scent. Sesshomaru wonders if his eldest daughter is adopted. 

“While I applaud your ability to take constructive criticism,—.”

He scowls. “I would not refer to your words as constructive.”

“—it doesn’t change how I feel. I don’t want to date you— contractually or otherwise.”

Sesshomaru is growing tired of this. He has never failed to close a deal before. He does not intend for this to be his first. “Are you saying you’d rather continue with blind dates?”

“Yes. I haven’t had any luck so far but who knows? Maybe my next date will be with the one.”

“The one?” Sesshomaru questions.

“The love of my life, the person I’m fated to be with,” she clarifies.

Sesshomaru arches his brow. “How can you be certain I am not this person?”

“I just do,” she insists.

“Have you ever been in love, Ms. Naraku?”

“Well, no, but—.”

He cuts her off. “Then how can you be sure?”

“Well, you’re….and I’m….” she stammers, still unable to meet his gaze.

Sesshomaru grins. He has her now. “Since you can’t be certain, why not date me? Obviously, you must feel some level of attraction to me. If you didn’t, you wouldn’t have met me for dinner.”

“I didn’t meet you for dinner. I’m here to tell you no and leave.”

“And yet you are still here,” Sesshomaru points out.

Instantly, she rises from her seat. “Stop messing around! We aren’t dating. We never were. I’d appreciate it if you could accept my answer. This will be the last time we see each other.” She rushes away from his table, stumbling in her heels.

Sesshomaru watches her storm off, smirking to himself. She’s a stubborn woman.

He takes a sip of his drink, replaying her outburst. Most of the points she made are things he’s heard before. The senior executive team was not pleased when Touga announced the transition. They raised similar concerns. He’s certain Onigumo Naraku is aware of these points. After all, he is Taisho Enterprises’ number one competitor. 

However, there is no reason why Ms. Naraku should know the name of his assistant. Hojo Ueda has only been working for him for a short while. Sesshomaru glances at the exit. He doesn’t know how she managed to come across this information. One thing he does know: Ms. Naraku is hiding something. 

Sesshomaru intends to find out what it is. 

Chapter Text

After last night’s rendezvous with Mr. Taisho, Kagome tucks her power suit into the back of her closet. She resolves to forget about the ruse, the dates, and his proposal. Kagome wants to forget how ridiculous she felt dressing up as Kagura. She’s embarrassed about how she acted, especially the part where she mentioned saving herself for ‘the one’. It was a desperate attempt to get Mr. Taisho to back off. Kagome figured if she claimed to be waiting for love, Mr. Taisho would give up. After all, he doesn't have a romantic bone in his body. He also doesn't lose. No matter what she tried, Mr. Taisho remained resolute. Kagome tries not to think about how he countered each of her points. Or how good he looked in his suit.

Unfortunately, her subconscious doesn't get the memo. She spends the night dreaming of her CEO. These visions are a product of her fear of being found out. She dreams of Mr. Taisho shouting at her for lying to him, throwing her out of the company, and Kagome moving back in with her family. They are terrifyingly realistic. Kagome wakes in a cold sweat, sure this is the fate awaiting her Monday morning.

When she finally falls back to sleep, one last dream plays in the theater of her mind. This one ignites a heat wave. No matter how many glasses of water Kagome consumes upon waking, she can't douse the flames.

Kagome knows Mr. Taisho is attractive. She’d have to be blind not to notice. He’s tall with a chiseled jaw, a deep voice, and gorgeous eyes. From the way he fills out his suit, Kagome can tell he’s fit. His attitude is the only reason he isn’t constantly accosted by women in the office.

Mr. Taisho is known for his concise and blunt refusals. When he took over the company from his father, several women approached him. He shot each one down faster than a sniper. By the end of his first week, he earned the nickname ‘The Killing Perfection’ for all the hearts he crushed.

Kagome refuses to join the graveyard of her coworkers. One steamy dream about the man doesn’t mean she likes him. Just because Mr. Taisho said he chose her doesn’t mean he likes her. After all, he thinks she’s Kagura. Mr. Taisho has no idea she’s really one of his employees. If he did, he would not be pursuing her. He’d fire her…or possibly murder her.

She shivers just thinking about it. Under no circumstances can Mr. Taisho ever find out what she did.

The prospect of going to the office on Monday keeps Kagome awake. There is no need for an alarm. Nervous, she paces the apartment. Kagura hasn’t returned yet and Kagome doesn’t expect her any time soon. 

Her stomach is in knots. She can't tell if it's from her limited sleep or lying. Kagome hates being untruthful. No matter the intention, it always ends badly.

To work off her pent-up energy, she decides to take a walk. Exercise is good for the mind and body. She writes a note for Kagura and leaves it on the kitchen counter. Kagome wanders around for a while. The early morning air is crisp and the streets are quiet. Eventually, her feet lead her to the metro station. Soon, she finds stands at the bottom of the shrine steps.

Whenever Kagome needs a reset, she comes here. Her childhood home is located away from the noisy traffic of downtown Tokyo. Seated on a hillside along the city's outskirts, the small shrine offers people a less-crowded place to gather for celebrations such as the summer festival and New Year’s. It’s quiet and peaceful, which is exactly what Kagome needs.

“I’m home!” Kagome calls as she passes through the torii gates.

Her brother greets her first. “Hey, Sis!”

“Souta! You’re up early.” She ruffles his hair playfully.

He smacks her hand away and tries to smooth out his bedhead. “It’s kind of hard to sleep with all the racket your friends make.”

“Huh?”

A second voice comes from overhead. “Hey, Kags! I didn’t know you were coming by today.”

Kagome shields her eyes from the sun and looks up. A man is crouched on top of the main building. “Kouga, what are you doing here?”

He leaps off the roof, doing a backflip before landing barefoot in the dirt in front of her. “I thought I’d get a head start on the repairs.”

“It’s the weekend. You don’t have to work overtime on this. I can’t afford to pay for it,” she reminds him.

“Don’t worry,” Kouga assures her. “After everything you and your family have done for us, this is the least we can do.”

Kagome tilts her head. “We?”

Two heads pop up from the other side of the roof.

“Hey, Sis is here!”

“Hi, Sis!”

Ginta and Hakkaku are members of Kouga’s pack. They’ve managed to survive as contractors in the human world. Their strength and endurance aid them in their work. Having increased agility as wolf yokai also helps. Though, there have been times when their antics cause trouble. Kagome’s biggest concern is someone witnessing one of their inhuman feats, such as Kouga leaping off the roof.

Luckily, no visitors have arrived yet. Her friend’s secret remains safe.

“How’s it going?” she asks Kouga.

“We’re starting with the main building. When we got on the roof, we noticed several of the shingles were damaged. We’re checking the structure to see if it’s worth repairing the broken ones or if it would be better to redo the entire roof,” Kouga explains.

Kagome chews the inside of her cheek. She knew the shrine needed a major overhaul but roof materials are expensive. There might only be enough funds to renovate the main shrine building. The rest of the campus will have to wait until she can save up for their repairs.

“Alright,” Kagome says, rolling up her sleeves. “How can I help?”

Kouga explains their plan for renovating the main building. The roof is today’s main priority. He doesn’t trust her on the ceramic tiles. Kagome has a history of being clumsy. Even with the wolf pack’s quick reflexes, there is a risk of her falling. She’s not a skilled laborer like Ginta or Hakkaku. Despite that, Kagome knows she can be useful. She volunteers for clean-up duty. The busier she is, the less time she will have to worry about Monday.

“I’m going to say hi to Mama and Gramps, then I’ll get started, boss,” she says, saluting Kouga.

He grins. “Take your time.”

Kagome crosses the yard to the rear of the property where her family’s home sits.

Gramps is out front, tending to his bonsai garden. When he sees her approaching, he squints. “Kagome?”

“Hey, Gramps!” She waves. “How are the new saplings?”

“They’re coming along nicely.” He beams, proudly turning one of the pots towards her. “Look at how many new sprigs have grown since your last visit! I have to trim them daily.”

“Great!”

Kagome is glad her grandfather has kept up with his hobby. The garden started with a single plant their neighbor gifted Gramps after Grams’ funeral. Kagome doesn’t remember much about the background. She was still young when Papa and Grams died. Souta was only a few months old. Kagome does remember how withdrawn Gramps was.

He barely left his room. Mama did her best, but with two small children, her efforts were limited. Their neighbor constantly checked on them. She brought over food, clothes her children had outgrown, and even a Shogi set. Kagome tried to get Gramps to teach her how to play. He said he’d get around to it.

A month later, she still didn’t know how to use the board. Gramps lost so much weight he was barely recognizable. Then their neighbor brought over one more gift: a young bonsai seedling.

Mama didn’t have time to tend to the tree. Between applying for part-time jobs and raising her family, she was exhausted. Kagome and Souta were far too young to care for it. Gramps was the only one in the house up for the task. Since the species was meant to live outdoors, he was forced to leave his room daily. Eventually, obligation became routine and routine became recreation.

Over the years, Gramps’ fascination with the graceful trees grew. He expanded his collection and built an outdoor platform to house them. Inside the house were several pots filled with seedlings. Kagome often teases Gramps about how he loves his plants more than his family.

“Is Mama inside?” she asks.

He pauses inspecting his next tree. “Hmmm? Oh, yes. She’s making lunch for the workers.”

“I’ll go see if she needs any help.”

Gramps doesn’t respond. He’s already back to trimming branches.

Kagome stops in the doorway, tapping the toes of her shoes to shake off the dirt before she enters. “Hi, Mama.”

Her mother appears at the end of the hallway. Wiping her hands on her apron, she smiles. “Kagome, welcome home.”

Home.

That word unleashes everything— her guilt about lying, the mounting trepidation she feels about going to work, and her mixed emotions about her boss.

It takes less than four steps to reach her mom. Kagome doesn’t care if it seems childish. There is no better cure than a hug from Mama. Being enveloped in her arms makes Kagome feel safe. For a split second, everything wrong with her life disappears.

“Kagome, dear, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” she lies, pulling away. She puts on her best smile. “I was just a little homesick.”

“You’re always welcome here. You know that. Anytime— day or night,” Mama says.

Kagome nods. Part of her wants to confess everything. The other part is too ashamed to admit what she’s done. She doesn’t want to disappoint her mother.

“I also wanted to see how the renovations are coming along.”

“They’re such hard workers,” Mama remarks. “So helpful, especially Kouga. I know you told me you two are just friends, but are you sure you don’t see a future with this boy, Kagome?”

“Mama, we’ve been through this. I’m not dating Kouga.”

“Because he’s a wolf demon?”

“No! You know I don’t care about that.”

“It’s such a shame. He’d be a wonderful son-in-law.”

Kagome buries her face in her hands. “Mama!”

“Alright, alright.” Her mother laughs, waving her hands in surrender. “Don’t be upset. It’s a mother’s prerogative to worry about her children. You may be grown but you’re still my baby. Ever since the accident you’ve been taking care of others, first with Gramps and Souta, then with your friends in middle school, and now with the shrine. You are so busy helping everyone else, you forget to take care of yourself. I don’t want you to end up alone.”

“I’m not alone, Mama. I have Kagura.” She doesn’t mention her best friend gave her the same speech. 

Her mother frowns. “That’s not what I mean. You need a partner, Kagome, someone who will always fight to stand beside you.”

“Mama, I promise, if I ever find someone like that, I’ll be the one fighting to stand with him,” Kagome promises.

“Make sure you do.”

“Do you need any help with lunch?” Kagome asks, steering the conversation away from her lackluster dating life.

Mama shakes her head. “No, I’ve got it covered. You should relax. I don’t know how much overtime you worked to be able to afford this renovation, but I’m sure it was a lot.”

Kagome’s stomach churns as another lie comes out. “It wasn’t much.”

Mr. Taisho may believe deception can be a useful tool but Kagome finds it sickening. The more she covers up the truth, the worse she feels. Coming clean to her mom about the money would lead to questions— most of which she can’t answer.

Like why she dreamed about her CEO saying he chose her as he shucks off his suit jacket, unbuttons his shirt, and…

“Kagome?”

“Huh?”

Mama is staring at her. “Dear, are you coming down with a fever?” She steps close and presses the underside of her wrist to Kagome’s forehead. Mama’s brow furrows. “I think you should take Monday off. You’ve been working too hard. Your body needs a day to recuperate.”

“Being outside in the fresh air will help,” Kagome reassures her. “I’ll be fine.”

She hopes it’s true. 

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sesshomaru skims the file his assistant prepared over the weekend and scowls. “This is everything you managed to find on Kagura Naraku?”

“Yes, Mr. Taisho,” the man confirms.

He throws the folder aside. Papers and photos fly out as it crashes to the floor. “This is useless. These details are all public knowledge. If I wanted to trust a search engine, I would not have asked you to compile a report.”

Mr. Ueda scrambles around, collecting the discarded sheets. “What source would you like me to use, sir?”

“What source would you cite if you were submitting this report to a journal?”

His assistant stammers, unintelligently.

“Never mind. I will do it myself. Get out,” Sesshomaru growls.

“But, sir, don’t you want to review last week’s notes for this morning’s meeting with Mr. Tsujitani?”

Sesshomaru restrains himself from cursing. He has more urgent matters to attend to than his standing meeting with Miroku Tsujitani.

The Vice President of Client Relations is a womanizer who spends more time being reprimanded by HR than doing his job. Sesshomaru originally planned on terminating the man until he saw how the director of HR handled the situation. The red palm print on the side of Mr. Tsujitani’s face lasted over a week. Sesshomaru gave Miss Kuwashima a raise.

If it were up to him, he’d leave more than a mark on Mr. Tsujitani’s cheek. Sesshomaru is in no mood to meet with the man. Their weekly one-on-one is more of a formality anyway. He doesn’t like wasting time on nonessential meetings.

Client Relations is a well-oiled machine. Despite Mr. Tsujitani’s faults, his department is one of the best in the entire company. They have the lowest employee turnover rate and consistently meet or exceed their target scores. Though Sesshomaru attributes the latter to fear more than Mr. Tsujitani’s leadership.

“How much time do I have?” he questions.

“You are due downstairs in thirty-seven minutes, sir,” his assistant answers.

“I will be down in thirty-two. Leave the notes from last week. I’ll review them on my own.” Mr. Ueda does as he asks. Sesshomaru doesn’t look up from his desk as he excuses him. “Close the door on your way out.”

Sesshomaru reviews what he knows of the Naraku family. Onigumo Naraku is the founder and CEO of Spyder Tech, a firm specializing in the research and development of new-age weapons. They also manufacture various assets for the military.

Onigumo has two daughters. Nothing is known about their mother. He never married. Onigumo has never been romantically linked to anyone. The media speculated about several women but no rumors were ever proven true. The identity of Kagura and Kanna Naraku’s mother remains a secret.

Sesshomaru suspects it is because they were born to a low-ranking yokai or yokai without a clan. In all likelihood, they are half-sisters. Onigumo is a shrewd business owner. Sesshomaru doubts he has ever had a relationship beyond the occasional dalliance. Kagura and Kanna are the unintended results of those encounters. Onigumo will sell them off as easily as he does his other products.

While he does not agree with Onigumo’s methods, Sesshomaru refuses to get involved. Clan matters are to be dealt with by clan members. Outsiders are not permitted to intervene unless the matter pertains to them.

Sesshomaru does not know what Ms. Naraku is hiding. He hopes it has nothing to do with her father. The less involvement Sesshomaru is forced to have with Onigumo, the better. Spyder Tech’s CEO is a loathsome individual. Every time Sesshomaru has been obligated to speak with the man, he feels uneasy. Onigumo’s energy signature is tainted by malice and greed. No good can come from such a creature.

This is why Sesshomaru suspects Ms. Naraku is plotting against him. She made it clear she will not be a pawn in her father’s game. What better way to escape Onigumo’s grasp than by infiltrating a stronger clan? If all she wanted was to escape, she could have achieved her goal by dating him. The Taisho clan could have offered her security and stability. Yet, she refused.

Sesshomaru considers alternate objectives. Leaking business intelligence is impossible. Taisho Enterprises’ trade secrets are highly guarded. Sesshomaru would never give up their development roadmap. The same goes for insider trading. It would make more sense for Ms. Naraku to use her connections and take down Spyder Tech internally. There is nothing for her to gain by leveraging him.

He leans away from his desk. If Taisho Enterprises isn’t her target, then why did she research the company? Did she conduct a background check on him? Is that how she discovered the name of his assistant?

Sesshomaru frowns. He is missing something— a detail that will bring the larger picture into focus.

The notification bell on his laptop alerts him of the time. He needs to head downstairs for his meeting. Sesshomaru stands, buttons his jacket, and exits his office.

He thinks back to his dinner at Perilla Lounge, analyzing everything he noticed about Ms. Naraku. Her blue eyes and layered scent are perplexing. Sesshomaru has never smelled her particular blend of strawberries and vanilla before. He wonders if the scent profile was passed down from her mother.

Sesshomaru is deep in thought. He doesn’t register the elevator arriving on the fourth floor until a throat clears.

Mukotsu Inada stands in front of him. The man smells of deceit and corruption. Sesshomaru ignores him. He despises weak humans like Mr. Inada who choose to profit from the manipulation of others. Sesshomaru doesn’t appreciate the idea of someone like Mr. Inada working at his company. However, he can’t fire the man without cause and Mr. Inada’s record is clean.

Sesshomaru enters the Client Relations department. The instant he passes through the glass doors, the scent of vanilla and strawberries hits him. His nostrils flare. She is here.

He scans the department, peering over the cubicle walls in search of the woman who plagues his thoughts. Several employees stop working to sneak glances at him. Others type furiously in an attempt to appear busier than they are. Sesshomaru scents the rising fear in the room. Mr. Takumi, one of the managers, smells the worst.

Sesshomaru approaches him. He is a balding human carrying more weight in his gut than with his colleagues.

“Good morning, Mr. Taisho.”

“Morning.”

Mr. Takumi’s eyes flit around the department. “W-Was there something you needed, sir?”

Sesshomaru doesn’t answer. He follows his nose to a cubicle at the rear of the department, in the corner near the windows. The cubicle offers a clear view of the elevator bay and the department’s conference rooms.

He rounds the corner,  finding the seat empty. What surprises him is how organized the desk is. Color-coded folders are cataloged by quarter, client, and product. The cubicle walls are covered in reports. Sesshomaru sees trend analysis, quarts rover quarter comparisons, and a three-year forecast. He is impressed until he spots a framed photo next to the monitor.

Ms. Naraku is beaming. She wears robes over a school uniform. Sesshomaru deduces this photo must be from her high school graduation. Ms. Naraku has a bouquet tucked under one arm. Her other is draped over a young woman with piercing red eyes.  

Sesshomaru leans down. There are no shared physical attributes. They wear matching attire which means they are friends from the same class as opposed to sisters. While the pair don’t resemble each other, the girl with red eyes shares several prominent features with Onigumo.

He found the missing piece of the puzzle.

A knock sounds on the cubicle wall. “Good morning,” Mr. Tsujitani greets him. “I was wondering where you were. I thought maybe you forgot our meeting.”

“I tried.”

Mr. Tsujitani chuckles, misinterpreting Sesshomaru's honesty as a joke. “Are you ready?”

Sesshomaru doesn’t answer. He’s inspecting the other personal effects sprinkled throughout the cube. There are several piles of sticky notes in various shades. He doesn’t see a single one in the standard yellow color. A cup overflowing with multi-colored highlighters and pens sits beneath an ofuda. The hand-painted talisman hangs from the cubicle wall, symbolizing success in business.

“Did you need to ask Ms. Higurashi a question?”

He turns to Mr. Tsujitani. “Who?”

“Kagome Higurashi. This is her desk.”

“She works for you?” Sesshomaru inquires.

“Yeah,” Mr. Tsujitani confirms, grinning. “She’s one of our hardest workers. I’ve recommended her for a promotion a couple of times but Mr. Inada and her manager raised concerns.”

“Such as?”

Mr. Tsujitani scratches the back of his neck, looking uncomfortable. “Well, to be honest, I think Mr. Takumi is worried about looking bad. Ms. Higurashi does a lot of his job, though,” he taps his chin pensively, “I’m not sure she’s even aware.”

“And Inada?”

“He’s been against Ms. Higurashi since the HR incident.”

Sesshomaru raises an eyebrow. “What HR incident?”

“A few years ago, Ms. Higurashi claimed she saw Mr. Inada put something in another employee’s drink. There was no evidence, so the claim was withdrawn.”

“And no one found it suspicious each time Ms. Higurashi attempted to advance in this company, Mr. Inada voted against it?”

Mr. Tsujitani shrugs. “He seems like the type to hold a grudge.”

“Indeed.” Sesshomaru glares at Mr. Inada. The Marketing Director is hovering nearby under the guise of waiting for a fax. Sesshomaru won’t give him the satisfaction of listening in on their conversation.

“I need to cancel our meeting. I have a conflict,” he informs Mr. Tsujitani.

His Vice President stares. It is unheard of for him to cancel an appointment at the last minute. Sesshomaru is always punctual. “I hope everything is alright.”

“It will be,” Sesshomaru mutters, leaving the fourth floor.

He returns to his office to collect his coat and car keys. Mr. Ueda trails behind him, a tablet in hand. “You’re back early, sir. Would you like me to bring a fresh pot of tea?”

“Reschedule the rest of today’s meetings for later this week,” Sesshomaru demands. “I have an important lead I must follow up on.”

Mr. Ueda looks confused. “Wouldn’t the sales team be better equipped to deal with the situation?”

“No. I shall see to this one personally.”

Sesshomaru takes the elevator to the garage. His Supra is parked a few meters away. He drives the sports car at least once a week. Having a dedicated driver allows him to complete work during his commute but Sesshomaru prefers to be behind the wheel. Motor vehicles are one of humanity’s advancements that he approves of.

He turns the key in the ignition and hears the engine roar to life. The sound is not as intimidating as the battle cry of a dragon but it is satisfying to hear.

Traffic is non-existent this late in the morning. Sesshomaru makes it across town in record time.

Spyder Tech’s headquarters is a towering pillar of glass and steel. On days when the air pollution is particularly bad, the top of the building isn’t visible. It appears to vanish into the smog.

Sesshomaru parks at the entrance. When he enters the building, a security guard requests he move his vehicle. Sesshomaru silently strolls past the man. He follows the route Mr. Muso took to Ms. Naraku’s office.

A young man sits at the desk outside the room. When he sees Sesshomaru approaching, he stands. “May I help you, sir?”

“I’m here to see Ms. Naraku. She should be expecting me.”

The young man grabs a clipboard from his desk. “Of course. Your name?”

“Sesshomaru Taisho.”

He scans the top sheet and frowns. “I apologize. I don’t see it listed here, sir. Are you sure you have the correct day?”

“Is she in?” Sesshomaru asks.

“Yes, but, sir— Sir!”

Sesshomaru halts with his hand on the doorknob. “This is a personal matter. I suggest you not interrupt.” He steps inside, locking the door behind him.

A woman sits at a large desk in the middle of the room. When she hears the door shut, she glances up. Sesshomaru recognizes her from the photo. His suspicions are confirmed.

“Who the heck are you? And what are you doing in my office?”

“Confirming.”

“Confirming?” she repeats, incredulously.

Her phone starts to ring. Sesshomaru guesses it must be security or her assistant. Considering his impromptu arrival, it may be both.

“Are you Kagura Naraku?”

She eyes him warily “Yes.” He settles into the chair across from her. “And you are?”

“You do not recognize me?”

Her nose scrunches up. “No. Should I?”

“I doubted you would.” He extends his hand to her. “I am Sesshomaru Taisho.”

Her red eyes widen for a fraction of a second before she’s glowering at him. “What do you want?”

“An explanation.”

She clenches her jaw, debating for a moment before picking up her phone. “Kohaku, could you please cancel my next appointment? I need to step out for a bit. Thanks.” She hangs up the phone. Slowly, she folds her hands in front of her. “We can’t talk here.”

“Because of your father?”

Rage flashes in her crimson eyes. “Not another word. Not until we are out of this building and away from this place.”

“Fine,” Sesshomaru relents. “Perilla Lounge in twenty minutes. If you’re late or refuse to show, you won’t be the only one to suffer, Ms. Naraku. Do I make myself clear?”

“Crystal.”

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru sits in the corner of Perilla Lounge. The bar section of the restaurant is quiet. It is too early for drinking. The bar isn't even staffed yet. Sesshomaru doesn't mind. This location is ideal. He will have the privacy he requires to unearth the details of this deceitful tale.

He waits less than five minutes before Kagura Naraku strolls through the doors. She takes a seat next to him and removes her sunglasses. Slamming her purse on the countertop, she addresses him. “Was it necessary for you to storm into my office? I had to convince security you weren’t a threat and give them a bonus so they don’t mention the incident to my father. My assistant is traumatized. Do you know how difficult it is to find a decent assistant? I’ll probably have to pay for his tuition and therapy to convince him to stay!”

“Did you deem it necessary to deceive me?” Sesshomaru counters.

“Touché.”

“I want answers. Now,” he demands.

Ms. Naraku rolls her eyes. “Wow! She said you were a hard ass but jeez!”

“Who? The woman posing as you?”

Her eyes narrow. “The woman has a name and she happens to be my best friend. You can say what you want about me— yell, threaten to tell my father what happened, whatever,— I don’t care — but leave her out of this.”

“She’s as much a part of this as you.”

Ms. Naraku folds her arms in front of her. “No, she’s not. Not by a long shot. The woman you met the other night is in no way like me. She’s accepting, bubbly, generous, intelligent, pretty, and basically the most wonderful person in the world. And the only reason she did this was that I asked her to. So if you want someone to blame, look no further. It’s me.”

“Why?” Sesshomaru inquires.

“I had other plans,” Ms. Naraku answers.

He scoffs. “Are you claiming you sent one of my employees to impersonate you because you were too busy?”

“I didn’t know I was meeting you! If I did, I never would have asked Kag—,” she pauses, pinching the bridge of her nose as she inhales. “I would have canceled.”

"It would have been preferable."

"You think I don't know that? I just wanted my father off my back."

Sesshomaru can hear the sincerity in her voice. Notes in her scent spike due to aggravation and unease, yet it remains devoid of the sour smell that accompanies lying. Such notes were also absent from Ms. Higurashi’s scent. He needs to know how they succeeded in such an endeavor.

“Her scent was masked. How did you accomplish such a feat?”

“My sister works in Spyder Tech’s lab. She is developing an artificial musk,” Ms. Naraku reveals. “I stole a few vials. I gave them to my friend so you wouldn’t be able to tell she wasn’t me.”

“Or she is human,” he points out.

Ms. Naraku glares at him. “Why does it matter?”

“How could it not?”

She mutters expletives under her breath and shakes her head. “You’re all the same.”

“Says the liar.”

“Lying isn’t the same as being a prejudiced asshole,” she snaps. “I warned her to stay away from yokai like you. Not everyone is as nice as the pack of scruffy mongrels who follow her around. A lot of yokai are stuck in the old ways. Bunch of bigots! You’re just like my father.”

Sesshomaru clenches his jaw. He has been tolerant up until this point but her remark is inexcusable. “Watch your tongue.”

“Check your ego,” Ms. Naraku hisses. She stands and grabs her purse off the bar. Her arm slides through the strap until it is positioned over her shoulder. As Ms. Naraku retrieves her sunglasses, she turns to him. “I explained the situation. We’re done here.”

He grabs onto her wrist. “I will decide when we are done.”

The arms of her sunglasses snap close and she waves them at him like a fan. A gust of wind knocks his hand away. Angry red eyes bore into him. “Don’t touch me.”

Sesshomaru stands. “For someone with such a harsh opinion about the old ways, you certainly haven’t lost your instincts.”

Ms. Naraku holds his gaze.

It has been ages since Sesshomaru fought another yokai. Weapons and yoki are no longer tools used to settle a score. These days, clans rely on legally binding documents. They hold corporations for ransom instead of individuals. Victory is determined by the number of shares usurped, not the meters of land obtained or resources procured. The process is dull. Sesshomaru yearns for the satisfaction of combat.

“Shall we take this conversation elsewhere?”

“I don’t have time for your games. I have appointments to keep and a business to run. I suggest you do the same. You wouldn’t want your father to regret appointing you as his successor, would you?” Ms. Naraku quips.

Sesshomaru resists the urge to bare his teeth. He suspects she’s bluffing. His father has never met Ms. Naraku. However, as part of her father’s clan, she possesses the connections to reach out to him.    

“You are quite sure of yourself,” he observes, straightening up.

“I underestimated someone once. I won’t make the same mistake again,” she says, putting on her sunglasses. “Our business concludes here.”

She heads for the exit. Ms. Naraku is halfway to the door when she pauses. She pivots on her heels and draws her sunglasses down the bridge of her nose. “A word of advice: You should get to know Kagome before you formulate an opinion about her.”

“What makes you think I won’t terminate her employment when I return to the office?”

Ms. Naraku tilts her head and gives him a knowing look. “If you were going to fire her, you’d have done it already.”

“Perhaps I wish to make her suffer.”

“As business owners, our time is valuable. It would be foolish to waste such a limited commodity on unnecessary things. You won’t fire her, know why?” Ms. Naraku prompts. “I’ll give you a hint. It’s the same reason you insisted on having Kagome instead of finding another woman to contractually date you. You’re intrigued.”

Sesshomaru considers the consequences of attacking Ms. Naraku in broad daylight. Surely he could cover up the situation with a story about a gas leak. An explosion wouldn’t be difficult to fabricate, especially considering the kitchen. He tries to remember the number for their PR office when Ms. Naraku continues.

“But if you’re feeling spiteful and do fire Kagome, send her my way. She’s a hard worker. I could put her talents to better use than Taisho Enterprises.” She adjusts her sunglasses and waves. “Ciao!”

Sesshomaru seethes. He watches the woman saunter out of the restaurant.

Ms. Naraku is more obstinate than her counterpart. She may not appreciate her father but she inherited his arrogance. Ms. Naraku is a shrewd, observant woman. She would be a fantastic Shogi opponent if Sesshomaru could tolerate her smug attitude. Her comment troubles him more than her personality.

She’s correct. It would have been more efficient to simply find another woman to date. He could have followed through on Ms. Higurashi’s suggestion and paid for an escort. Yet, he pursued the woman who rejected him.

Sesshomaru sinks into the bar chair. He's never questioned his instincts before. If Sesshomaru felt compelled to take action, he did. Those instincts led him to secure a future as Touga’s heir and the head of Taisho Enterprises.

Now they tell him to follow Ms. Naraku’s advice.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sunlight covers the tenth-floor balcony in warmth. A gentle breeze billows through the pavilion. It teases Kagome’s hair as she strolls to the railing. From her perch, she has a great view of the city.

The outdoor employee break area is one of the perks of working at a large corporation like Taisho Enterprises. The balcony is usually crowded, especially on a nice day. During the lunch hour, it is deserted.

Kagome likes to take her meals out here. It’s a nice change of pace from the constant chatter inside. The solitude of the balcony helps Kagome gather her thoughts. Breaks outside feel restorative. Surrounded by fresh air and natural light, Kagome is able to enjoy her lunch.

It’s been almost two weeks since she refused Mr. Taisho’s proposal. Kagome expected to receive a letter of termination when she arrived  Monday morning. Instead, she found a request from Mr. Takumi to run the department’s monthly compliance meeting. Kagome was so relieved she didn’t question Mr. Takumi’s request.

The day proceeded like any other Monday with a few nuances. Each time the elevator chimed, Kagome peeked over the cubicles to check if it was Mr. Taisho. It never was. For some reason, he started holding meetings with his Vice Presidents and Directors in his office.

Whenever Kagome’s phone rang, she hesitated to pick it up. She worried it would be his voice at the other end. The only non-work-related call she received was from Hojo. He wanted to know if she planned on attending their upcoming high school reunion.

As the days pass, Kagome’s nerves settle. She begins to realize her job is safe. Kagome should feel happy, or at the very least relieved. She doesn’t. She feels guilty.

I should apologize, she thinks, staring out across Tokyo.

Kagura disagrees. She’s told Kagome countless times not to worry about Mr. Taisho. “You should be worried about your idiot manager. Don’t you see what he’s doing, Kagome? He’s capitalizing on your hard work. You need to get out of this department.”

Kagome wishes it were that simple. Transfer requests require approval from the employee’s direct supervisor and their department VP. She knows Mr. Tsujitani would sign off on her form. Getting approval from Mr. Takumi is another matter.

What would I even say? she wonders.

Kagome runs through scenarios in her head. There’s the old standby: Thank you for the opportunity, Mr. Takumi, but I’ve decided to pursue a different career path. I appreciate all you’ve done for me.

She snorts. Absolutely not! Mr. Takumi doesn’t deserve even fake praise from her. Mr. Takumi should be thanking her for her efforts. Without her help, he wouldn’t have lasted a month in his position.

Kagome moves on to the next option. Mr. Takumi, I would like to request a transfer. I’ve heard the Finance and Strategy department has an opening and I’d like your approval to apply.

No, Kagome shakes her head. This won’t do either. Mr. Takumi will want justification for her moving departments. The only way she can achieve that is by being honest.

Which leads her to the final option: the direct approach. I’m requesting a transfer. I don’t want to work for you anymore, you lazy, ungrateful jerk!

“Who is a lazy, ungrateful jerk?”

Oh no! Kagome claps her hand over her mouth. She didn’t mean to say that last part out loud. Embarrassed, she turns around to apologize. The blood drains from her face.

It’s Mr. Taisho.

Kagome is frozen, unsure whether to run or hold her ground. She tries to remember the instructions her biology teacher gave the day they went up to the mountains to hike. He had cautioned the class about encountering wild animals such as wolves and bears. Her teacher told them not to run. But her teacher never met Mr. Taisho.

His eyebrow arches as he stares at her.

Kagome swallows thickly, her mind racing. What does she say? What does she do? “Mr. Taisho.” Kagome folds forward. “Hello.”

He frowns. “That is not an answer.”

Kagome feigns ignorance. “What do you mean?”

“Who is the lazy, ungrateful jerk you mentioned?”

“Oh, I was just practicing,” she insists.

“Practicing?” he questions skeptically.

“Right for a…,” Kagome trails off. She doesn’t want to lie again. 

“A transfer?” Mr. Taisho finishes for her.

She blinks, startled that he guess correctly. “Y-yeah. How did you—?”

Mr. Taisho points to a bento box on the nearest table. “Is that your lunch?”

“Yes. I was going to eat after…”

“Practicing?” he surmises. 

“Right.” Kagome fidgets nervously. She’s stuck between the railing and Mr. Taisho. Even if she wanted to run, there is nowhere to go. He is blocking the only path to the doors.

“Shall we?” He gestures to the picnic table.

“S-sure.”

Kagome sits down in front of her bento. Mr. Taisho takes the bench opposite her. This situation is oddly reminiscent of their first date. Kagome reminds herself not to make comparisons between the nights she spent moonlighting as Kagura and now. She’ll only confuse herself. 

“Do you often eat out here?” Mr. Taisho inquires.

She nods. “Whenever I have a chance. I prefer being outdoors. How about you?” 

“Usually, I am confined to my office. I rarely find time to enjoy the daylight hours outside.”

“Well, this must be your lucky day then,” Kagome says. Instantly, she chides herself for being overly friendly. Mr. Taisho is not one of her work colleagues. He is the CEO. She can’t be so informal.

Her fingers shake as she opens the bento. The oval-shaped container is filled with rice, pickled vegetables, and a rolled omelet. It’s a simple menu. The food may not be fancy but it's satisfying. Kagome makes two each morning – one for her and one for Kagura. She doesn’t worry about the food going to waste. If Kagura has a lunch meeting, she gives the bento to her assistant, Kohaku. On those days, Kagome finds a thank you note inside the empty container. She smiles. Maybe she should start preparing three boxes. 

“Would you like some? It’s homemade,” Kagome offers.

“No, thank you.”

Right… Her friends appreciate her cooking but Mr. Taisho’s palate is more refined. He probably has a private chef to prepare his meals. There is no way he’d be interested in consuming a modest meal like this.

“What’s your name?” he asks. 

“Kagome Higurashi. I work in the Client Relations department on the fourth floor.” 

His face remains impassive. He extends his hand to her. “It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Higurashi.”

“You too, Mr. Taisho,” she returns, reaching for his hand.

When they touch, a jolt of electricity shoots across their joined hands. Kagome tenses. The same thing occurred when they touched at Sezanne. She’s never experienced this reaction to a yokai before. To prevent accidentally hurting any demons or half-demons, Kagome cloaks her reiki. She trained for years to master the skill.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear to be effective against Mr. Taisho. 

Kagome glances up at the CEO, convinced he’s figured her out. Sure enough, his lips quirk up. He releases her hand and stands. 

This is it. I’m finished. Kagome takes a deep breath, readying herself for termination.

“I’ll see you soon, Ms. Higurashi.”

“Yes, sir.” Kagome’s heart drops into her stomach. He might as well have said, ‘Pack your things.’ 

He goes inside, leaving her alone on the balcony once more. 

Everything she feared happening is coming true. Kagome stares at her bento box through blurry eyes. She shoves the container aside. Her appetite is gone. 

She lingers on the balcony until her lunch break is over. At the top of the hour, Kagome trudges inside. Her head hangs in shame, like a criminal being marched to the gallows.

When the elevator arrives at the fourth floor, Kagome proceeds to Mr. Takumi’s office. She’s sure he has her paperwork already in hand. There’s no use prolonging the inevitable. Kagome would rather be terminated in private than put on a show for her coworkers.

Mr. Takumi’s door is shut. Kagome knocks. “Come in,” her manager calls.

“Sir, I’ve come to— oh, Hojo, excuse me, I mean Mr. Ueda, my apologies. I didn’t realize you two were having a meeting.”

Hojo grins at her. “Ah, Ms. Higurashi, perfect timing. I stopped by to speak with Mr. Takumi about the team’s bandwidth and how a change may impact their schedule for this week.”

Kagome closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. Here it comes…

“Mr. Taisho is instituting quarterly team outings. To kick off the first round, he is making a point to personally attend each department‘s gathering. His earliest availability is Thursday evening. Do you think this date would work for you and your colleagues?”

Kagome can hardly believe what she is hearing. “Sorry, what?”

Hojo gives her a kind smile while Mr. Takumi glares at her over the younger man’s shoulder. “Would this Thursday work for a team outing?”

“Sure,” Kagome agrees.

“Excellent!” Hojo beams. He begins jotting down notes on his tablet. “I’ll finalize the details with Mr. Taisho and send out a confirmation email shortly. Thank you, Ms. Higurashi. You’ve been a great help.”

Before she can ask about her employment status, Hojo bows and exits Mr. Takumi’s office.

Kagome peers around the door frame to watch him walk away. Why does her availability matter? Doesn’t Hojo know she’s about to be fired?

“What is it, Higurashi?”

She faces forward. “Sir?”

“What are you doing in my office?” Mr. Takumi questions agitatedly.

Kagome is disoriented. She was convinced Mr. Taisho was going to fire her. However, based on what Hojo said, it doesn’t seem to be the case. Her world has been turned upside down and then right side up in a matter of minutes. She doesn’t know what to believe.

She presses her fingertips to her forehead. “I’m sorry, sir. I’m not feeling myself.”

Mr. Takumi frowns. “Pull yourself together, Higurashi. I can’t afford for you to slack off right now. We’re far too busy for this nonsense. You’re a professional. Act like one.”

“Yes, sir. Of course.” Kagome closes the door behind her.

She doesn’t remember weaving through the department cubicles to reach her desk. Her body moves on auto-pilot. Kagome sits at her workstation and looks at the towers of client files. She devised the color-coding tiers to organize clients based on the terms of their SLA. The system helps her prioritize her client communications.

Mr. Taisho is meticulous. He must have a similar system for disseminating information through the company. Kagome suspects his first call would be to the employee’s direct supervisor. In her case, it would be Mr. Takumi but her manager didn’t seem aware of any changes. Kagome knows from experience that he’s a terrible actor. If Mr. Takumi knew she was going to be fired, his face would show it. Plus, he told Hojo to coordinate the team outing with her. Why would he continue to rely on her if she was going to be terminated?

It doesn’t make sense.

A noise catches her attention. Several of her coworkers are loitering in the elevator bay. Some are wrapping up their lunch conversations while others dawdle, not wishing to return to their desks. They wave to Kagome as they meander about. No one acts out of character. To them, this is merely another afternoon. Nothing has changed.

Kagome doesn’t know if what she’s experiencing is shock or relief. She decides it’s neither. Kagome remembers the predatory look in Mr. Taisho’s eyes. Her skin prickles. She’s feeling dread— a deep, sinking fear of the inevitable fallout to come.

She has two choices. Kagome can continue working here, pretending everything is fine, and waiting for Mr. Taisho to fire her. Or she can own up to her actions and leave.

In theory, the latter sounds heroic. In practice, it's terrifying. Giving up her job means moving back to the shrine. Kagome knows Kagura will fight her on it. She’ll probably even offer Kagome a job at Spyder Tech but Kagome refuses to work for Naraku. She can’t stomach being in the same room as the man. Kagome is sure the feeling is mutual.

Finding a new job seems like a daunting task. Kagome has been at Taisho Enterprises since she graduated from Uni. She’s grown to appreciate the work. With the exception of Mr. Takumi, her team consists of many hard workers. There are days when she spends more time in her cubicle than at home. She’s established relationships with her clients. Some even send her holiday cards. She’s built a life here. Leaving it all behind is scary.

Think of it as an opportunity, Kagome encourages herself. Mr. Takumi wasn't going to approve your transfer request anyway.

With a sigh, she plants both palms on her desk and stands. If Kagome has to leave Taisho Enterprises, she’s going out on her terms. She will not let Sesshomaru Taisho have the final word.

Kagome marches to the elevator. It’s now or never…

Mr. Taisho’s office is located on the twelfth floor. Kagome holds her breath the entire way up. She counts each floor as she ascends, hoping it will calm her nerves like counting sheep soothes people to sleep. It doesn’t. By the time the bell chimes announcing she’s reached her destination, Kagome’s pulse is racing and she feels faint.

She steps off the elevator and follows the signage to the left, toward the CEO’s office. Her feet shake in her flats as badly as they did in those ridiculous stilettos Kagura forced her to wear.

This is what happens when you lie, she thinks, opening the door. It comes back twofold.

The CEO’s office is equipped with an entryway. The small room serves as an office for the CEO’s assistant and a waiting room for anyone he is scheduled to meet with. Kagome didn’t consider either before entering.

Hojo glances up from his computer. When he notices her, his brow creases. “Ms. Higurashi? Was there something you needed?” he asks.

“Yes, there’s something I want to discuss with Mr. Taisho.”

“About the team outing?” Hojo surmises.

“No, actually, it’s a separate matter. I need to tell him something. Is he in?”

“Unfortunately, no,” Hojo answers. “He is completing an inspection at one of our warehouses this afternoon. I don’t expect him back until later this evening.”

“Oh.” The adrenaline leaves her system. Her shoulders sag and Kagome feels herself deflate. What is she supposed to do now?

“I could leave a message for him, if you’d like,” Hojo offers.

“No, it’s fine,” she assures him. “I’ll come back tomorrow.”

Hojo looks conflicted. Kagome waits for him to decide how to respond. “I’m afraid tomorrow won’t work either. Mr. Taisho is set to meet with our investors all day. He’s a busy man,” Hojo adds, sounding apologetic.

“Of course. Never mind. I’m sure it wouldn’t have made a difference anyway.”

Head hung low, Kagome goes back to the fourth floor.

Chapter Text

The day starts off as planned. Sesshomaru’s car arrives at Taisho Enterprises promptly at seven. His assistant is waiting with a cup of coffee and a fresh printout of today’s schedule. They review the line-up while Sesshomaru scrolls through his inbox. Of the hundreds of emails he receives on a daily basis, less than ten percent are actionable. Today is no exception. 

He sips his coffee and spends the next ninety minutes preparing for the remainder of the day. At nine o’clock, Sesshomaru meets with the Board of Directors. The objective of their quarterly check-in is to review their progress on the company’s annual plan. It is a drawn-out affair— two hours of pomp and circumstance better utilized strategizing cross-selling opportunities and potential acquisitions.

Previously, Sesshomaru motioned to shorten the meeting but his request was denied. The other executives argued two hours is the minimum necessary for discussing key next steps. Their version of the key next steps and his are vastly different. While Sesshomaru prefers to focus on operational items such as the salary range of the executive leadership team, the other board members are interested in catching up with one another. They view the quarterly meeting as social time. If Sesshomaru hears another anecdote about Mr. Yakamata’s yacht, he is going to dismantle the boat one plank at a time.

Today, the collective spent less than twenty-five minutes on business-related matters. Even more distressing, his father is the worst offender.

Touga Taisho earned the title of Great Dog General in his prime. He conquered foes and acquired more land than any other daiyokai of his time. Serving as a CEO in the modern age, he ranked in the top five of the country’s best leaders for over two decades. Since retirement, however, he shifted his attention away from conquest. Touga is invested in leisurely activities such as golf, fishing, and even the occasional hike. Yet he never fails to attend a board meeting.

Sesshomaru would have been grateful for his father’s punctuality if his presence didn’t derail their meeting agenda. Touga is the one who brings up topics like Mr. Yakamata’s yacht which causes the discussion to spiral out of control. 

Today’s distraction crosses the line. After hearing about how Mr. Nakamura’s youngest son is set to be married, Touga questions Sesshomaru about his personal life. He wants to know if Sesshomaru is making any progress with his latest match. 

Sesshomaru stopped accepting calls from his father after he discovered the woman he believed was Kagura Naraku was actually one of his employees. He refused to go on another blind date. There is no need. Sesshomaru has no interest in dating an arrogant daiyokai like Ms. Naraku. He plans to thrive in business without a mate. They will only be a distraction.

His father disagrees. Touga believes having a mate— someone to watch over and care for —will help Sesshomaru. He wants his son to learn compassion. Sesshomaru does not understand what compassion has to do with being successful.

When he questions his father’s reasoning, Touga pulls him aside to tell him, “Leadership is not about the power you wield but the power you grant others.”

Sesshomaru considers his father’s words on the way to his second meeting. If his father is saying he needs to trust his subordinates more, Sesshomaru will show him last quarter’s earnings report. It’s true they achieved their quota. However, based on their pipeline, they were projected to bring in eighteen percent more. Sesshomaru will not reward those who fail him.

Or those who lie to him.

He has not decided how to deal with Ms. Higurashi. After meeting with the real Ms. Naraku, Sesshomaru planned to terminate her friend. He returned to Taisho Enterprises with every intention of making an example of Ms. Higurashi. When Sesshomaru arrived at the fourth floor, he stepped off the elevator to find her running the department’s compliance meeting.

Ms. Higurashi was not dressed in provocative attire the way she was for their dates. The long-sleeved blouse and pencil skirt she wore was not a brand he was familiar with. She had her hair down and her face was clean of makeup. If it weren’t for her striking blue eyes or unique scent, Sesshomaru might not have recognized her.

She held the room’s attention, not based on her position or an authoritative tone but by addressing points to connect the audience with the content. Sesshomaru rarely watched his lower-level employees present. He was impressed by how well she did. He was even more surprised when he realized her manager was not attending. The man was in his office with the door closed.

Sesshomaru recalls Mr. Tsujitani’s goal to promote Ms. Higurashi. She has consistently obtained high marks on her performance evaluations. There is no reason why she shouldn't advance in her career track. Sesshomaru can’t afford to lose an employee as efficient as Ms. Higurashi. He has so few willing to take the initiative. Sesshomaru needs to consider the situation carefully before making a decision. He left the fourth floor without taking action against Ms. Higurashi.

She isn’t the only one he is worried about. Ms. Naraku shared some rather interesting intel on Spyder Tech’s portfolio. If Onigumo Naraku is looking to expand his business into other markets, Taisho Enterprises needs to be prepared.

Sesshomaru shares the concept with the director of his Research and Development team. As a fellow yokai and close friend of his father’s, Taimei Bokuseno, can be trusted with the information. He and Sesshomaru discuss potential uses for the musk. Deception is the prime use case, though Sesshomaru cannot fathom while Spyder Tech would invest funding into an imperfect disguise. Humans lack the ability to distinguish yokai based on scent. Other yokai will notice the muddled layers. What does Onigumo Naraku hope to achieve with the formula?

“Perhaps he is a hunter,” Bokuseno suggests. “His aim is to mimic the smell of his prey’s natural environment to avoid detection.”

Sesshomaru can’t argue with the logic. Onigumo Naraku’s appearance in Tokyo has never been explained. When he showed up, no one from the ancient clans recognized his family name. The only reason no one has ever questioned him is because of his position. He is a powerful daiyokai.

Or so it appears…

By the time his meeting with Bokuseno concludes, Sesshomaru is more concerned about Spyder Tech’s founder than the company. 

While exiting Bokuseno’s department, he catches a familiar scent and follows it to the balcony. Ms. Higurashi is standing with her back to him, arms slung over the railing as she faces the city. She is dressed in modest attire and flats. One foot is kicked back, tapping on the ground as she talks to herself.

Sesshomaru is about to turn around and head inside when she yells, “I’m requesting a transfer. I don’t want to work for you anymore, you lazy, ungrateful, jerk!”

He smirks. It has been weeks since Sesshomaru heard her indignant tone. He wonders who incurred her wrath today. So he asks.

The moment Ms. Higurashi realizes he is standing behind her, the color drains from her face.

After a morning of pure aggravation, Sesshomaru decides to have some fun. He presses her about her outburst and invites himself to sit with her while she eats her lunch. Sesshomaru expects her pulse to spike and her temperature to rise. He did not anticipate Ms. Higurashi offering to share her meal with him.

No one has ever shared their food with him. It is not common practice amongst the daiyokai clans. They possess the wealth to ensure each member of the clan eats well. Not even his own mother has ever spared him a piece of her dinner. It is simply not done. Yet this woman offers half her meal to him without a second thought.

Sesshomaru assumes it is an act but her scent does not change. She is being sincere.

He doesn’t know what to make of her. Ms. Higurashi is wildly unpredictable, stubborn to a fault, yet kind. She behaves in the same manner she did during their dates. The only difference between the Ms. Naraku he met for dinner and the woman in front of him now is the name.

There is one mystery he has yet to unravel. The musk Spyder Tech developed impacts the olfactory system. It changes the user’s scent but nothing else about their biological makeup. There is no explanation for the strange spark occurring when he and Ms. Higurashi touched.

Sesshomaru introduces himself for the sole purpose of deciphering the cause. The second time their hands connect, he recognizes the energy flowing between them. It is a reaction. Two energy signatures with conflicting cores came together: yoki and reiki.

He underestimated Ms. igurashi. She’s not a mere human. She’s a miko. And a powerful one at that. There is no way he can allow Spyder Tech to have her. 

Sesshomaru excuses himself from the balcony. This revelation changes everything. He needs time to figure out how to deal with Ms. Higurashi– time he doesn’t have because he is due in Fukushima.

The company’s main plant is there. It was recently upgraded. However, production remains stagnant. Sesshomaru wants to conduct a thorough walk-through to assess the cause of the low numbers. He narrowed down the lull possibilities to either a learning curve or laziness. If it is the former, training on the new technology would resolve the issue. If it is the latter, Sesshomaru will need to add ‘interview plant manager replacement’ to his list of things to do. Unfortunately, Sesshomaru suspects it is the latter. His work is never done. 

To conserve his time, he has his driver transport him to Fukushima. Sesshomaru reviews the year-over-year output reports for the plant. Production has been holding steady for a long time. The advancements he invested in should have increased their output by at least thirty percent. Per the reports, the plant’s output hasn’t increased from last quarter. He frowns and sets the reports aside.

Sesshomaru reaches into his briefcase. He withdraws a folder, marked ‘Confidential’. Ms. Kuwashima procured the folder for him last week. He requested it from HR under the guise of following up on Mr. Tsujitani’s feedback. After witnessing her run the compliance meeting, he was curious about Ms. Higurashi’s personnel file.

The first page contains basic information such as her employee ID and hire date, along with more personal details including her date of birth and her Individual Number. Sesshomaru is not interested in such paltry facts. He wants to know more about the woman who has kept her identity secret.

Her success isn’t limited to the brief dating ruse she took part in. Ms. Higurashi managed to evade him for years.

Mikos are rare. Like daiyokai, they were prominent figures in the past. Now, they are almost extinct. There are shrine maidens and priestesses who serve the country but they are powerless. They are no better than servants. Ms. Higurashi is the first one Sesshomaru has encountered with spiritual abilities. Even more impressive is how those abilities rival his own. He needs to know where she came from.

Sesshomaru sets the folder down and picks up a sealed envelope. He suspected HR’s file wouldn’t have any valuable insights. As a contingency plan, he hired a private investigator to research Ms. Higurashi’s background. 

He scans the information contained in the envelope the investigator provided. Copies of her transcripts are included, along with her ID badges and a list of achievements she obtained throughout her schooling. She was an average student in middle school who progressively improved through high school. 

There is a note in her file about her interest in becoming a medical professional. Sesshomaru flips to her college transcript. There isn’t a single medical class listed. 

The investigator includes supplemental information explaining why Ms. Higurashi did not pursue a medical degree at her university. During her final year of high school, a storm caused irrevocable damage to the shrine. Sesshomaru goes through the stack of contractor invoices and bank statements connected to the incident. He is not surprised to notice this time period coincides with Ms. Higurashi’s first part-time job.

Her resilience is inspiring. She works between two to four part-time jobs throughout her entire university experience. Some are on campus, such as the library monitor position, while others are more alarming. For three years, she served as an Office Manager at the Hidden Village. 

Sesshomaru recognizes the foundation. The Yoro clan leader runs it. Suddenly, Ms. Naraku’s comments about ‘scruffy mongrels’ make sense. Ms. Higurashi hasn’t aligned herself with a single yokai; she is connected to several. Sesshomaru will look into this further. He needs to know how involved the wolves are in Ms. Higurashi’s life. 

He finds several photographs of her with friends. There is one of Ms. Higurashi and Ms. Naraku in their middle school uniforms. Another features the pair with three other girls and a brown-haired boy with a sheepish grin. He looks familiar, but Sesshomaru can’t place him. In each picture, Ms. Higurashi’s smile makes her stand out. It reminds Sesshomaru of how he felt meeting her in Perilla Lounge. 

He shakes off the thought and moves on to the section about her family history. Ms. Higurashi is the eldest daughter of a Tokyo-based couple. Their second child, a boy, is currently enrolled in middle school. Ms. Higurashi’s father and grandmother died in a car accident a few months after her brother was born. Their deaths resulted in the remaining family members moving in with her grandfather. He maintains a small shrine. 

Once Ms. Higurashi’s family moved in, they assisted him with the shrine duties. She spent the better part of her life growing up on the sacred land. Sesshomaru reviews a copy of the property’s title deed. The temple has been owned and cared for by the Higurashi family for generations. There are no records of any other tenants ever living on the land. 

Sesshomaru recalls a temple being constructed on the outskirts of Edo during the Sengoku Jidai. He wonders if the Higurashi shrine is the same one. 

“Sir, we’ve arrived,” his driver announces. 

He closes the folder and carefully tucks them into his briefcase. Sesshomaru cannot afford anyone discovering the information he has compiled. The ramifications could be severe.

With the data securely locked away, he exits the car.

The plant manager is waiting at the security desk to greet him. He and Sesshomaru exchange pleasantries while his visitor’s badge is being processed. Sesshomaru doesn’t care about the man’s weekend plans or how his children are doing in school. What interests him are concrete ideas for improvement and results-driven initiatives. The plant manager offers him neither.

Once his badge is ready, Sesshomaru is led onto the plant floor. He expects the floor supervisor to join the plant manager for the inspection. Instead, the plant manager suggests they forgo the walkthrough to discuss his projections for expanding the team in the new year.

Sesshomaru questions how additional workers will improve production. The floor manager is unprepared to answer. He stammers about the new technology’s impact and how employee turnover is up but never provides ideas on how to improve the situation.

By the time he finally takes Sesshomaru around, the man’s forehead is glistening with sweat. His employees don’t appear surprised to see him in such an appalling state.

Sesshomaru leaves the plant more aggravated than when he arrived. He will need to identify more effective leaders for the plant. Clearly, the current team is not fulfilling its role as desired. He also makes a note about hiring their technology vendor to come in and train the staff on the new enhancements.

He returns to Taisho Enterprises just as the evening rush hour commences.

Sesshomaru drops into his office chair. Pinching the top of his collar, he loosens his tie. His desk is littered with paperwork. His inbox is overflowing. Today feels longer than a typical work day, even though he’s put in fewer hours. He is frustrated and disappointed— not in his employees but in himself. Sesshomaru should have known better than to expect them to meet his standards.

He tries to recall his father’s technique for managing these people. Surely things weren’t this disastrous while Touga was leading the company. This is likely a result of his CEO appointment. Like a pack of unruly pups, the employees are testing him. Sesshomaru will learn what motivates them and leverage it to reform his workforce.

That was why he initiated quarterly team outings. If the board members get to meet often, why not his employees? Sesshomaru is convinced he will get more insight from a meeting with his subordinates than the elders his father gathered together. The idea also happens to have been Ms. Higurashi’s, which is why Sesshomaru chose Client Relations as the first group he would meet with.

He planned on using the evening as an opportunity to corner the woman. Sesshomaru wants to know her side of the story. He knows she isn’t as sincere as Ms. Naraku claimed. He’d seen the way her temper flared at dinner. She despises him. So why go along with the ruse? Does she want money? Leverage? Sesshomaru has tried to determine her reasoning but cannot find the answer. Catching her off guard at a work function means she won’t be able to craft a response ahead of time.

Or run away. 

So Sesshomaru decided to wait until the team outing to confront her. That was before their rendezvous on the balcony. His impulsive choice to follow Ms. Higurashi’s scent only made deciding what to do about her more confusing.

Sesshomaru can formulate an approach for anything— mitigation for anticipated risks, workarounds for bug fixes, and tactical plans for the business. Whether the issue lies within daily operations or impacts the overall business, he finds a solution. So why can’t he determine the best course of action to take regarding this woman?

His assistant enters the office. “Sir, I have your messages.”

“Proceed.”

“Mr. Yanami reached out for an update on the legal issue with the final terms of the acquisition.”

Sesshomaru anticipated that call. Totosai Yanami has been Taisho Enterprises’ General Counsel for decades. Before that, he served Touga as a confidant and companion. The senile swordsmith grates on Sesshomaru’s nerves but he is necessary for the business to run. No one has studied human law as extensively as Totosai.

“I’ll follow up with him on my drive home,” Sesshomaru tells his assistant.

Mr. Ueda nods. “Mr. Tatsuta called to request the revised strategic plan.”

“Did you send it to him?” Sesshomaru inquires.

“Yes, sir, but he asked that you call him back.”

“No. If Mr. Tatsuta has questions, it’s because he did not pay attention during our meeting. I will not reward mediocre behavior.”

His assistant looks uncomfortable but doesn’t respond.

“Was that all?” Sesshomaru prompts, turning off his computer. He plans to complete the remainder of his tasks at home. That way his assistant can leave at a reasonable hour. Not that he cares. He merely wishes to avoid another argument with HR about unfair working conditions.

“One more thing, sir. Ms. Higurashi from Client Relations stopped in earlier.”

Sesshomaru pauses. “Did she mention why?”

Mr. Ueda shakes his head. “She said there was something she needed to tell you.”

Interest piqued, Sesshomaru puts on his coat. “I’ll take care of it,” he assures his assistant. “If anyone else calls, forward them to my home office. And notify Mr. Ogata that I will be driving myself home. He is excused for the evening.”

“Of course, sir. Have a good night.” Mr. Ueda bows.

Sesshomaru checks his watch on the way to the elevator. 17:18. He guesses that most of his employees have left already. It’s unlikely that Sesshomaru will find her at her desk but if he manages to reach the garage in time, there is a chance of catching her on her way to the station. Based on her financial records, he knows Ms. Higurashi can’t afford a car. Public transit is her only option for commuting.

He presses the down button twice. Sesshomaru is not rushing to meet her. He just wants to get home. If he happens to meet her on his way out, it will be an opportunity to complete his follow-up. That is all.

When he arrives in the garage, Sesshomaru’s earlier suspicions are confirmed. Only a handful of vehicles remain. His executives are as eager to leave at the end of the day as the rest of his employees. He shakes his head. Is there no end to their inertia?

Sesshomaru rounds a support beam to the corner of the lot where his cars are parked. Mr. Ogata typically drives the Infiniti. The QX80 model is large enough for Sesshomaru to transport colleagues or focus on his work during the commute. It isn’t anywhere near as flashy as the Supra but it is more cost-effective for city driving.

Next to the black SUV, is another sports car. The Acura NSX was the first vehicle he purchased. It took him over a century to become accustomed to motor vehicles. Initially, Sesshomaru was uncertain if he should trust the human innovation. Over time, curiosity outweighed his concern and he bought the Acura for its speed and sleek design. He continues to enjoy the investment.

Sesshomaru places his briefcase in the back before securing his seatbelt. The sun has begun to set behind Tokyo’s towering metal and glass buildings. The numerous windows reflect the retreating beams, casting the city in golden light. He pulls out from the parking garage and heads toward the station.

Finding her among the dozens of other commuters making their way home is difficult. If it weren’t for his heightened sense of sight, Sesshomaru would have missed her.

She’s standing at the intersection, waiting for the light to change. Sesshomaru maneuvers around the man in front of him to pull up alongside her.

He rolls down the passenger window. “Get in.”

Ms. Higurashi pauses on the sidewalk. She glances around for a minute, confused before she spots his car. Squinting, she leans down to peer inside. The second she recognizes him, her eyes go wide. “Mr. Taisho?”

“I heard you wanted to speak with me.”

She nods.

“You can speak to me now. Get in.”

Ms. Higurashi shakes her head. “No, that’s okay. It can wait until tomorrow.”

“I’m afraid tomorrow won’t work. The only time I have available is right now. I suggest you take me up on my offer.”

She bristles at his tone. “It’s after hours, Mr. Taisho. You can’t order me around.” 

Though Sesshomaru will never admit it, he has missed her fiery spirit. She’s one of the few people who will deny him. It’s a dangerous choice but he respects her tenacity. “You make a valid point. The work day has concluded. However, my understanding is that the matter you need to speak to me about is of a personal nature.”  

Her cheeks flush. For a moment, Sesshomaru thinks she will refuse him and stomp off. Then, with her firmly clamped around the strap of her bag as she flings the car door open. She slides into the passenger seat and buckles her seat belt. 

Sesshomaru smirks. He has her right where he wants her. 

Let the games begin. 

Chapter Text

Kagome fidgets uneasily. What’s happening right now?

She had been convinced the right thing to do was to come clean to Mr. Taisho. She marched up to his office to tell him, but he hadn’t been in. Kagome felt like an idiot. Of course, he wouldn’t be waiting around for her. Mr. Taisho is the CEO. He has more meetings in a day than she does all week. Kagome decided to arrive early tomorrow to catch him on his way into the office. She figured he might be in a better mood in the morning. Not that it matters. He is still going to fire her. At least this way, Kagome can set the record straight and leave with a clean conscious. 

That was the plan. So how did she end up alone with Mr. Taisho in his car?

“Where do you live?” he inquires.

Kagome jolts. “Huh?”

“Your address,” Sesshomaru repeats, his finger poised over the navigation console.

“You don’t have to take me home,” she tells him. “You shouldn’t have to go out of your way for me.”

“How do you know it’s out of my way?”

“I don’t,” Kagome hastily assures him. “I just thought…well, we don’t have much in common. I figured you lived in a really nice neighborhood like Daikanyama.”

“Hn.”

She bites her lip, not understanding his response. Is Mr. Taisho laughing at her or is he mad? “Anyway…,” Kagome trails off nervously. “Thank you for picking me up.”

“Mr. Ueda made your request sound urgent.”

Kagome smiles. “Hojo has always looked out for me.” 

He frowns. “Are you well acquainted with Mr. Ueda?” 

“Yes, we’ve known each other for years. We attended middle school and high school together.”

“I see.” Mr. Taisho purses his lips. He looks displeased, though Kagome can’t imagine why. Why does it matter if she and Hojo attended the same school? “Are you two dating?” 

His question annoys her. It’s inappropriate and a bit rude. Of course, Mr. Taisho isn’t the first to ask her about her relationship with Hojo. Throughout their school years, girls pestered Kagome about what he was like as a boyfriend. Once they found out she wasn’t dating Hojo, they wanted her help in securing him. She refused every time. That decision earned her a few enemies. Had it not been for Kagura, Kagome is sure she would have been bullied. Thankfully, everyone was too scared of Kagura to try anything.

Kagome told those girls the same thing she wants to tell Mr. Taisho now. Her personal life is none of his business. Not that she has one but Kagome refuses to admit that. The closest thing she’s ever had to a relationship is a one-sided crush. That’s another thing she’ll never admit to. It’s so embarrassing that she cringes just thinking about it.

“I’m waiting,” Mr. Taisho says expectantly.

“No, Hojo and I have only ever been friends. If you’re worried about him doing me any special favors; Don’t. He’s not like that,” Kagome informs him.

“Noted.” Mr. Taisho adjusts his grip on the steering wheel.

She notices his expression has relaxed. Maybe he was worried about Kagome leveraging her personal relationship with Hojo at work. She would never do such a thing but Mr. Taisho doesn’t know that. Kagome is sure others at the office have attempted to take advantage of their connections. Mr. Inada comes to mind. She doesn’t know how that man still has a job.

“What brought you to my office, Ms. Higurashi?”

Kagome takes a deep breath. This is it. Time to confess! She thinks of Kagura and her effortless poise. Kagura never backs down. Even if she’s afraid of something, Kagura faces it with confidence. Kagome wants to be that way too.

She opens her mouth to speak but one glance from Mr. Taisho shatters her resolve. It should be illegal for someone to be that stunningly attractive. Kagome is reminded of her very vivid, very inappropriate dream. She pinches herself. Kagome can’t let herself get carried away with thoughts of ‘if only’. Now is not the time for that! She has to do this before she loses her resolve. This is her last chance. Kagome needs to make it count.

“Right, well, the thing is,” she begins uncertainly, “I wanted to apologize. The woman you’ve been seeing— Kagura Naraku —isn’t the real Kagura Naraku. It was me.” Kagome pauses to gauge his reaction. Mr. Taisho’s face is expressionless. She clears her throat and explains.“The real Kagura Naraku is my best friend. She asked me to pose as her for the blind date. I didn’t know the person I’d be meeting was you. And neither did she! She never reads the dossiers that her father sends along. Kagura isn’t interested in any of the guys her father sees as potential matches. She doesn’t want to be a pawn in his game.” 

Kagome pauses to take a breath. It isn’t until then that she realizes how much information she has shared. Kagome doubts Mr. Taisho cares about Kagura’s personal life or her strained relationship with her father. Even if he does, that isn’t what this apology is about. Kagome is not trying to justify her actions. She just wants him to know the truth. 

“Anyway, when you showed up at the restaurant, I was shocked. You were curt and blunt. It was intimidating. You treated the date like a business meeting. And then you made that proposal and I didn’t know what to do,” she confesses. “I should have told you right then and there. I’m so sorry!”

“Why didn’t you?”

Kagome blinks, startled by his even tone. He doesn’t sound mad. She expected him to shout. He doesn’t. Mr. Taisho continues driving through the city as if they are discussing something mundane like the weather.

“I made a promise to my friend. I don’t go back on my word,” Kagome answers.

“Even if it means facing termination?”

Swallowing the lump in her throat, she responds honestly, “Yes.”

Mr. Taisho doesn’t ask another question. Kagome waits for him to pull the car over or begin hollering at her. Neither occurs. They sit in silence while speeding through the downtown district. The city transforms from a glittering array of sun-soaked windows to the neon lights of the night.

The car rolls to a stop at the next intersection. They’ve hit a red light. Outside, car horns honk, pedestrian crossing signs chirp, and billboards advertise to hungry consumers. The noise sounds like it is coming from miles away. It is drowned out by the thumping of Kagome’s heart as she waits for Mr. Taisho to seal her fate.

She sneaks a glance to her left and finds him staring at her. Why is he looking at me like that? Kagome can’t tell what he’s thinking. He wears the same impassive expression as earlier. It’s extremely frustrating.

“I’m sorry,” she repeats, uncomfortable under his gaze. “I never meant to trick you. I was just trying to make Kagura happy. She’s in a similar situation with her father as you are. I only wanted to help. I swear.”

“Do you still want to help?” Mr. Taisho questions.

Kagome’s brow furrows. “What?”

“You claim you did this because you wanted to aid your friend. Am I to believe that you didn’t do this for money or as a way of getting back at me for being a tyrant CEO?”

“Of course not! I may not agree with your methods but I would never impersonate someone to get revenge. That’s cruel!” she cries.

The insinuation that she would blackmail him stings. What kind of person does Mr. Taisho think she is? She would never use someone for personal gain. He’s completely wrong about her. Kagome is about to tell him that when she remembers the check for the shrine renovations.

“Just so you know, Kagura did give me money for my family,” she admits, head lowering. “They have a small shrine. It’s ancient and needs a lot of work. We’ve been struggling to keep it open. The repairs cost a lot— more than I can provide. Kagura offered to pay for the next round as compensation for my time. But that’s it,” she insists. “I never wanted anything from you. I didn’t expect fancy gifts or special favors or anything like that. I paid for my wine at La Perilla and even called Sezanne to reimburse them for the scene I caused the night I rejected you.”

The light changes. The car behind them immediately honks. Kagome glances over her shoulder, wondering if she should wave them around. It might be safer for them— fewer casualties.

Mr. Taisho lifts his fist to his mouth. Kagome holds her breath, readying herself for the yelling which is sure to commend any second. It doesn’t come. He sits like that, staring straight ahead with an unreadable expression. Kagome’s stomach churns. Her heart nearly gives out when he finally speaks.

“You’ve been deceiving me, Ms. Higurashi.”

“Yes, sir.” Kagome hugs her purse. Here it comes. She wills herself not to cry. Tears won't’ help at a time like this. All she can do is accept his decision. She made her choice. Now, it’s time for him to make his. “A-Are you going to fire me?”

“No.”

Kagome turns her head so fast she’s sure to have whiplash. “Really?”

“Please continue to report to the Client Relations department,” he says.

She doesn’t know how to process his response. The day has been a test in enduring extremes. Kagome has bounced from one emotion to another like a pinball in an arcade. She was prepared for the worst,— the tears were seconds from leaving her tired eyes —but that time has passed.

Mr. Taisho didn’t fire her. Her job is safe. She can keep helping Gramps and Mama out. She gets to stay in the apartment with Kagura. There is no need to look for another job. Kagome can continue on with her life. A smile blooms on her face. Maybe it’s true what they say about the truth setting you free.

“Thank you so much, Mr. Taisho. I appreciate your understanding. I won’t ever forget this. I really owe you one.”

“I agree.”

“Huh?” Her good mood jerks to a halt. Why is it suddenly so cold in the car? Did he turn the air on? 

“Actions have consequences, Ms. Higurashi. I appreciate your honesty, however, that does not negate the fact that you deceived me.”

“It’s not something I’m proud of. I don’t like lying. I regretted the ruse. That’s why I wanted to apologize to you.”

He arches a single brow. “Do you think an apology is sufficient?”

“Um…no?”

“You said you owed me, did you not?”

“Yes,” Kagome confirms hesitantly. 

“Your assessment was correct. Ms. Naraku and I suffer from the same ailment: meddlesome fathers. She developed a clever, albeit unconventional solution to the problem. I planned on ignoring my father until he gave up. It wasn’t until I met you that I considered the merits of Ms. Naraku’s method.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Since you and Ms. Naraku are close, I assume you understand the significance of taking a mate. It is similar to what humans refer to as marriage.”

“It's nothing like marriage,” Kagome disagrees. “Marriage is about vowing to love someone forever but if it doesn’t work out, you have options. Mating is permanent. You are tethered together at the core of your being. Once you’ve made your choice, there is no going back.”

“Indeed, which is why I’m against it,” Mr. Taisho responds. “I’ve witnessed the devastation that a life bond can create. It is not something that should be taken lightly. I do not wish to suffer such agony at the hand of another. However, my father is persistent. He will not be denied.”

“Must run in the family,” Kagome mutters.

Mr. Taisho’s side eye makes her regret the remark. “It is unlikely he will give up. He has begun questioning my leadership in front of the board. I cannot allow such behavior to continue. That’s where you come in.”

“I’m sorry he’s not taking your feelings into consideration, but what does all that have to do with me?”

“Have you read The Mikado, Ms. Higurashi?” She shakes her head. Mr. Taisho smirks. “There is a famous phrase from Mr. Gilbert’s work that you may be familiar with: ‘Let the punishment fit the crime’.”

Kagome does not like the sound of that. Her pulse begins climbing. She has an eerie vision of a cat toying with a mouse. She looks at the door handle, desperate for an escape. 

There is a click as Mr. Taisho engages the door locks. “You entered an agreement with your friend to deceive me. It seems only fair that you offer to do the same for me.”

“What kind of agreement?”

“Date me.”

“What?” The volume of her voice exceeds the level of polite conversation. “You can’t be serious!”

“I am.”

She wants to smack him. “Are you messing with me right now? Is this payback for the blind date? I told you I was sorry! What more do you want from me?”

“I thought I made it quite clear what I want from you, Ms. Higurashi.”

Kagome stares at him. She was wrong. Losing her job wasn’t the worst-case scenario. This is. Entrapment by jilted CEO. Her pulse spikes. Kagome can’t tell who she’s more upset with: Mr. Taisho for laying the trap so delicately or her for walking right into it. She feels like a lab rat stuck in a maze with no way out. 

Then a thought hits her.

“Mr. Taisho, we can’t date— contractually or otherwise. It is against policy for coworkers to date.”

“Untrue,” he responds. “While it is frowned upon by some of our more traditional employees, coworkers are permitted to engage in romantic relationships as long as they meet the necessary criteria. First, there can be no opportunity for one to directly impact the other’s performance appraisal. Second, they must disclose the relationship to HR. Since I report to the shareholders and you report to Mr. Takuma, there is no issue. I’ll have Mr. Ueda schedule a meeting with Ms. Kuwashima as soon as possible.”

Kagome can’t believe what she’s hearing. How did he shoot her down so fast? She thought she had him. Did he plan this? “Okay, but what about my other points?”

“Are you referring to the reservations you shared at Sezanne?” he questions. Kagome nods. “Mr. Ueda is scheduling quarterly team outings with each of the departments. I’ll be personally attending the first round so the employees can voice their concerns and frustrations. I will leverage their feedback to create a prioritized plan for an employee retention initiative at Taisho Enterprises.”

Kagome thought he was setting up the meetings as a gesture to improve employee morale. She didn’t expect him to take it a step further. Client retention plans are a huge part of her job. How did she never consider applying the same logic to the corporate culture?

“As for your concern about my attitude, I will strive to be more considerate of your needs. When we are together, I will not multitask. You will have my undivided attention.”

The words are swoon-worthy. His tone isn’t. Mr. Taisho sounds like he’s reading a court transcript. His words carry no emotion. He’s almost robotic in his response. It’s clear he’s trying to appease her. Mr. Taisho is laying out cheese so she enters the trap of her free will. Kagome fell for the bait once. She’s not going to make the same mistake twice. 

“That’s not the point. I can’t–.” 

“We’re here.”

His interruption catches her off guard. Kagome glances out the window. A valet is rounding the car to take Mr. Taisho’s key. She looks past him and recognizes the entrance to La Perilla Lounge. “What are we doing here?”

“We’re having dinner together. That’s what couples do, is it not?”

Kagome leans across the center console and puts her arm out to stop Mr. Taisho from opening his door. “We’re not a couple,” she hisses.

He holds her gaze. Just like before, he is completely unaffected by her anger. Mr. Taisho remains frustratingly calm. “You need to take responsibility for your actions, Ms. Higurashi. You said you owed me. This is what I seek in repayment.”

“I won’t do it. Pick something else.”

Mr. Taisho tilts his head back as he regards her. “Most females would be delighted at the opportunity I’ve presented you.”

“Then date one of them.”

“You said you’re a woman of your word, correct?”

“I am,” Kagome stated firmly.

Mr. Taisho lowers his face to hers. When he speaks, she feels each word as it brushes over her skin. “So am I.”

He’s close. Somewhere in the far recesses of her mind, Kagome is aware of how inappropriate this is. He’s the CEO of her company, her boss’s boss’s boss. And if that wasn’t enough of a red flag, there’s the added fact that he’s a daiyokai. Being a demon isn’t an issue. His prejudice against humans is. She cannot fall for this guy.

So what if Mr. Taisho’s complexion puts skincare models to shame and his hair is always flawless? Who cares if he is better-looking than any of the actors on the red carpet? What’s so great about a guy who fills out a suit perfectly?  She’s not impressed by the way Mr. Taisho commands a room or how swiftly he can de-escalate a situation. It doesn’t matter that the color of his eyes reminds her of the last sunrise she shared with her father. Kagome will not fall for him.

Mr. Taisho runs the tips of his fingers down her temple, brushing her bangs back. “Say yes.”

Warning bells are going off in her head. The logical side of her is screaming about what a terrible idea it is. Another, smaller part of her is jittery with a strange kind of warmth. The sensation makes her head fuzzy. Kagome starts to forget why it’s such a bad idea.

There is a knock on the driver-side window. A young man stands outside the car. When he sees why they haven’t exited the vehicle, his eyebrows shoot up. He mutters an apology and steps away, folding his hands behind his back. 

Kagome jerks away, face turning red. Another second and she would have been lost in those hypnotic eyes. She’s mortified. What was I thinking? A ruse was how this whole crazy predicament started. She can’t get caught up in another lie, especially if it involves Mr. Taisho.

“Dinner,” Kagome counters. “I’ll pay. This was where we first met so it has poetic symmetry. I’ll treat you to a meal and then my debt will be repaid. Deal?” She extends her hand.

Mr. Taisho regards her. He doesn’t take her hand. Instead, he taps his window once, signaling the valet. The young man opens his door, then hurries around to her side to do the same. Mr. Taisho is there when Kagome steps out.

He leads her inside the restaurant. The instant they enter, a man is waiting to usher them to their table. Kagome follows. She’s aware of the stares they garner. Mr. Taisho is wearing a custom-made suit, leather shoes, and a designer-brand watch. She’s in her typical work clothes— a blouse and pencil skirt. They are mismatched and not just because of their attire.

Kagome has never met a daiyokai who respects her. Similar to how financial wealth dictates the hierarchy amongst humans, the yokai classes are categorized by power. Daiyokai have abilities that far exceed those of an average yokai. Kagome likens it to the difference between professional athletes and people who play sports as a hobby. Daiyokai never get sick and possess increased healing abilities. They are nearly invincible. Because of this, they consider themselves superior to others. 

Whether that’s true or not, Kagome doesn’t care. She feels that everyone should be treated with respect, regardless of how they are born. Money and power— influential or supernatural —do not determine a person’s worth.

Her opinion is an unpopular one. Based on the not-so-subtle glances she’s receiving, the other patrons do not consider her and Mr. Taisho equals. He probably feels the same way.

The maitre d’ stops at a table in the center of the restaurant. Mr. Taisho pulls out a chair. Kagome automatically moves toward the seat across from him but he stops her. His hand is firm yet gentle on her lower back. He guides her into the chair he pulled out, then proceeds to the other side.

Kagome’s heart rate accelerates. What was that?

Their waiter introduces himself to them. He hands them each a menu and fills their glasses with water while he recites the evening’s specials. She doesn’t hear a single word. Kagome wonders if she’s fallen into an alternate universe— one where her CEO is actually considerate of others. Or maybe she fell asleep at her desk and this is an elaborate dream. Those are the only explanations Kagome can come up with to rationalize what just happened.

Her reality check comes in the form of the menu.

Kagome feels faint. La Perilla Lounge’s dinner offerings are styled in the form of a prix fixe menu. The five-course selection starts at 20,000¥ a person. She tries to remember her account balance. Her hand itches to grab her phone. Even if Kagome has enough to cover dinner, she won’t be able to afford the rest of this month’s expenses. She chews on the inside of her cheek, debating what to do.

A hand closes over the top of her menu. “I’ll take care of it.”

“But, Mr. Taisho, I said I’d pay for tonight,” she argues. 

“I selected the restaurant so I will take care of the bill. You can pick next time.”

Kagome relaxes. That does seem fair. Still, she did offer to pay. They should at least compromise. “Would you care to split the— wait, next time?”

“Yes. I chose our activity this evening. Tomorrow, you can decide where to go.”

“Go? As in together?” Kagome’s voice wavers as she asks.

“Naturally,” Mr. Taisho confirms, scanning the menu.

Her mind is filled with white noise. It’s like an old radio that can’t get a decent signal. No matter how hard she tries, Kagome can’t find a way out of this. Each time she brings up a valid argument, Mr. Taisho is prepared with a resolution. He was ready with a workaround for her HR concern too. Mr. Taisho is always a move ahead of her. Kagome feels like she is in a showdown with a champion Shogi player.

Their waiter returns with the sommelier’s recommendation for the evening. “Sir?”

At Mr. Taisho’s nod of approval, he fills their glasses. Kagome takes a sip. Then another. Maybe it’s her nerves but Kagome doesn’t think she’s ever tasted anything as smooth as this wine. 

“Leave the bottle,” Mr. Taisho tells the waiter.

His request is like a red flag waving in the recesses of her mind. Kagome remembers that she hasn't eaten since breakfast. This realization alerts her to the dangerous predicament she's in. She can’t afford to make any mistakes in front of Mr. Taisho. He’s cunning. If Kagome isn’t careful, she’ll fall into another one of his traps. She sets down her glass.

“How long have you been aware of our world, Ms. Higurashi?”

“It’s everyone’s world, Mr. Taisho,” she points out, annoyed by his wording.

“Allow me to clarify. How long have you been aware of yokai?”

Kagome shrugs. “Since I was born. It’s never bothered me.”

“No?” he quips, appearing amused. “I can’t imagine your ancestors would be pleased by your choice of friends.”

“I could say the same for you,” she retorts. “Aren’t most yokai afraid of being purified?”

“Your abilities are impressive, Ms. Higurashi. However, I doubt your reiki would be strong enough to incapacitate me.”

There it is. Hidden in his challenge, Kagome has found an escape— one he can’t talk her out of.

“Would you care to bet on that?” Mr. Taisho regards her with interest. “If you win, I’ll accept your proposal and go along with the dating ruse, but if I win, our involvement ends here.” She extends her hand across the table. “What do you say?”

Holding her gaze, Mr. Taisho takes Kagome’s hand. The familiar spark ignites between them. This time, it feels stronger as if their energy signatures are aware of the deal. 

“Agreed.”

Chapter Text

Sesshomaru’s relationship with food is a complicated one. His body does not require nourishment as often as a human's or hanyo's does. There was a time in the fifteenth century when he didn’t stop to eat for a whole month. Sesshomaru was too engaged in his battles against other yokai— and any humans foolish enough to challenge him —that he simply forgot to eat. The delay had almost no impact on him. There was a slight emptiness in his stomach but that was quickly sated before he resumed fighting.

As the world changed, he began to eat to keep up appearances. Sesshomaru decided if he had to consume regular meals, he would only have the best. Yet, after nearly a century of luxury dining, no dish has ever satisfied him the way Ms. Higurashi’s dinner delights her. Either La Perilla Lounge employs the best chef in the country or her standards are low. Based on her financial situation, he assumes it is the latter. 

The tension between them has lessened since they reached an agreement. She’s at ease, conversing with him openly now that the matter of repayment has been determined. Ms. Higurashi appears confident that she will win their wager. Sesshomaru finds her self-assurance amusing.

He has never lost a fight— whether it be on the battlefield, during hand-to-hand combat, or in a simple board game. Success awaits him. Once Sesshomaru proves he is superior, Ms. Higurashi will be obligated to date him until Touga is satisfied and stops questioning Sesshomaru's effectiveness as a leader. Victory is within his grasp. He will relish the taste of it. 

“I didn’t know you could prepare food like this. What kind of seasoning do you think they use? It's not available in the supermarket, right? They probably make their own blend. And this sauce! Did you try some yet? It’s so good, I could take a bath in it.”

“Please don’t.”

Ms. Higurashi rolls her eyes and continues devouring her meal.

Sesshomaru can’t help but stare at her. Ms. Higurashi is pleased by the simplest things. Dinner is one example. His plan to incorporate feedback from the team outings is another. Sesshomaru's interest garnered her praise. Ms. Higurashi couldn’t stop talking about the program. She wants to formalize the process and give it a catchy name. She suggests offering an anonymous write-in option as well, in case any employees are nervous about sharing their input. They finish the first three courses of their meal before he can change the topic of their conversation. 

The passion she has for her job is admirable. Ms. Higurashi generates dozens of ideas for process improvement and even more for increasing client retention. The more she talks about the gaps in their workflows, the more animated she becomes. Sesshomaru has never encountered anyone as invested in their work as Ms. Higurashi. She’s almost on par with him.

They are matched in terms of willfulness. Sesshomaru thought Ms. Higurashi refused his proposal because she wasn’t his intended blind date. He never thought she’d refuse him as herself. Yet she had.

Multiple times.

Not only that, she had attempted to pay Sezanne for…What did she refer to it as? A commotion? When she told him in the car, Sesshomaru forced himself not to laugh. He didn’t want to give Ms. Higurashi the wrong impression. Sesshomaru needed her to stay rattled. He needed her to feel like she owed him so she agreed to his plan. But this woman continues to be unpredictable.

She has met each of his advances with stubborn determination. With the exception of the initial ruse, Ms. Higurashi has been honest with him. She’s shared the terms of her agreement with Ms. Naraku, the burden her family‘s shrine has put on her shoulders, and— even more shocking— her feeling about mating bonds. 

Whether she is aware of it or not, Ms. Higurashi is the only female who has ever shared his opinion on mates. Sesshomaru has discussed his position with his parents, allies, and Bokuseno. None of them agree with his view. Not one of them understands why he doesn’t want to endure such hardship. He thought his mother would. Sesshomaru was certain out of the few he trusts that his mother would side with him.

She didn’t.

When he asked her why his mother told him that she never regretted her choice. She didn’t regret being abandoned. She didn’t regret the nights spent alone or the countless tears she shed. Again, Sesshomaru asked why.

His mother had patted his cheek and said, “My beloved son, how could I regret the choice that gave me you?”

That was the first time Sesshomaru reconsidered finding a mate. Tonight is the second.

He can’t deny his draw to Ms. Higurashi. Since Sesshomaru met her, he has been attracted to her energy— not her reiki but her essence. She possesses a light that can not be explained in terms of power or energy signature. It is intoxicating and undeniably strong.

Just like the hold she has over him.

Ms. Higurashi is unique. Various aspects of life are in conflict with each other, yet she remains unaffected by the contradictions. The most perplexing is her awareness and acceptance of his kind.

Mikos and yokai are enemies. It has been that way since the beginning of time. Sesshomaru has never known a demon to befriend a priestess. Such a relationship rebels against the natural order of things. That is why the sparks appear when he and Ms. Higurashi touch. A miko’s life force is bound to their reiki, while yokai possess yoki. Though individual energy signatures vary in potency and ability, one thing remains consistent. When the two types meet, it is volatile.

Sesshomaru is uncertain how Ms. Higurashi has maintained her close relationship with Ms. Naraku. The lengths she is willing to go to ensure her friend’s happiness indicates a deep bond. Evidently, Ms. Naraku feels the same. Flexing her powers in public is dangerous. Luckily, she exercised control over her wind manipulation. Her attack was subtle, a warning. Sesshomaru suspects if he encounters Ms. Naraku again, she won’t hold back.

Ms. Higurashi’s proximity to Ms. Naraku isn’t the only relationship that warrants concern. She also has ties to the Yoro clan. Sesshomaru has never dealt with them directly but he has heard that their leader is headstrong and brash. It is a dangerous combination and one Sesshomaru is familiar with. For Ms. Higurashi’s sake, he hopes her involvement with the wolf pack has ended.

“You have been at Taisho Enterprises for a while, Ms. Higurashi. What led you to apply for a role within my company?” he inquires.

Her smile fades. Quietly, she sets down her utensils and pushes her plate away. “I’ve told you more than enough about myself, Mr. Taisho. I think it’s time for you to share.”

Remembering their first encounter, he offers a trade-off. “A question for a question?”

“No,” Ms. Higurashi says, wiping her mouth clean. “I’ve explained my actions. Now it’s your turn.”

“I’ve articulated the details of my circumstance.”

“Yeah, I get it. Your father wants you to find a mate. What I don’t get is why you care so much? Why go through all this?” she asks, waving her hand between them. “You’re his only son. Whether he likes your position on mates or not, he doesn’t really have a choice, does he? You’re the sole heir to the business.”

Sesshomaru is silent. The dynamics of his pack are complicated. Touga may be revered as a valiant warrior and a compassionate CEO but his family has mixed reviews.

Most pack lineages can be mapped out like a tree, rooted in one of the original clans and branching out to join other clans to ensure the succession of the bloodlines. In the Taisho clan’s case, their tree has been split in two.

Sesshomaru grew up in the care of his mother. His father was gone for the majority of his developmental years. He never resented Touga for that. His father had been away battling threats to his lands. There was a reason for his absence.

Then Touga met Izayoi. After that, there was no more reason.

Touga did what no other daiyokai had ever done before. He abandoned his mate and pup. Touga chose a human woman over his pack. He left Sesshomaru and his mate to fend for themselves. As if the abandonment wasn’t enough, news soon reached them of another betrayal. Izayoi was carrying Touga’s child— a son.

Sesshomaru’s formative years were shaped by Touga’s actions. He was the one to console his mother when she cried. He was the one who cared for her when the mating bond caused her more pain than her broken heart. In his father’s stead, he became a caretaker for his mother and the protector of the Western Lands. Sesshomaru took responsibility for everything his father had forsaken.

“Mr. Taisho, are you okay?”

He concentrates on Ms. Higurashi’s face until it comes into focus. She starts to reach her hand across the table, then remembers herself and withdraws.

“I have a half-brother,” he reveals.

Her eyes go wide.

“My father has never acknowledged my accomplishments, yet rewards his younger son with whatever he desires. If I cannot compel my father to see reason, he may remove me as the head of our company.”

“What? That’s ridiculous! Your methods may be a bit extreme but that doesn’t give him the right to pit you against your sibling. Is your brother even qualified to run a corporation the size of Taisho Enterprises?”

“Half-brother. And no, he is not.”

“Then what does your father hope to achieve by threatening you this way?”

“That I will take a mate,” Sesshomaru responds candidly.

“Right,” she drawls, recognizing the obvious. “But still, doing it this way…it’s just cruel. Is he trying to drive a wedge between you and your brother?”

“Half-brother,” Sesshomaru corrects for the second time. “He does not need to try. We are not on good terms.”

Ms. Higurashi bites her lower lip. He notes the shift in her expression when she puts the pieces together. “Half-brother? You have different mothers.”

“Precisely.”

Indignation causes her gaze to turn hard. She fists her napkin. “But your parents were mated. How could he do that to her?”

“I have asked myself that very question many times. It has been centuries, yet no answer has unveiled itself to me.”

“Jeez,” she scoffs, crossing her arms over her chest as she leans back in her seat. “Your dad sounds like a real piece of work. I can’t believe he treats his family like that. I always thought he was a decent guy.”

“My father has a persona that he portrays outside of our pack. His reputation has always been important to him,” Sesshomaru explains.

“More important than his family?”

“So it would seem.”

Ms. Higurashi shakes her head. “I’m sorry. That’s just…,” she exhales with an irritated huff. Frowning, she places her hands on the table and meets his gaze. “You let me talk about how he was such a great leader. Why?”

“How my father takes care of those under his care is different from how he cares for the members of his pack. They are separate.”

“They shouldn’t be. Shouldn’t he care more about his family than the strangers he employs?” Ms. Higurashi argues.

“Perhaps but that is not his way,” Sesshomaru responds.

“Well, his way sucks,” she grumbles.

Once again, he has to hide his smirk. She continues to surprise him. “This is why I require your assistance.”

She gives him a look. “If you’re trying to play on my moral sensitivity, knock it off. Lowering yourself to someone else’s terrible standards doesn’t solve anything. If you want to prove to your dad that you’re a better fit for the CEO role than your brother—.”

“Half-brother.”

“Right, sorry, half brother— then you must do it on your own terms. Make your father see you for who you are. Stop living in his shadow.”

He stares at Ms. Higurashi. In a single evening, she has dismantled everything Sesshomaru thought he knew. Not only does she point out a significant flaw in his plan, but she has supported his beliefs. Despite her opinion of his conduct and their unusual connection, Ms. Higurashi sides with him. She doesn’t question his story or disregard his feelings. Ms. Higurashi believes him. Her trust is unwarranted, unearned yet she gives it to him freely.

Now he understands Ms. Naraku’s fierce protectiveness. It is rare to find a champion who cares unconditionally the way Ms. Higurashi does. Given their history, she shouldn’t be concerned about him. Anyone else would be devising the quickest route to the exit. Not her. Ms. Higurashi sits across from him with her full attention on his story.

Sesshomaru almost feels guilty for ensnaring her but the strange sensation isn’t enough to make him back out of their wager. He needs her. He refuses to let his half-brother take another thing from him.

He stands and buttons his suit jacket. “You make a compelling case, Ms. Higurashi. Unfortunately, our reprieve has concluded. It is time we move on to the main event.”

She glances around the restaurant. “Here?"

“This matter is a delicate matter. I believe the roof would be our best option for privacy,” Sesshomaru suggests, coming around to the other side of the table to pull her chair out. “Unless you’d like to journey outside of the city.”

“The roof is fine,” she replies, straightening up.

Sesshomaru places his hand on the curve of her back. “This way.”

He leads her through the restaurant, past the other tables, down the hallway that leads into the kitchen, and around the line cooks rushing to get dishes out. Sesshomaru takes Ms. Higurashi to the rear of the restaurant where a narrow elevator sits. He nods to the head chef, knowing the amount he has paid for this evening will cover their meals and the staff’s discretion.

“This feels like a scene in one of those Yakuza films. Are you taking me to see where they clean the money?”

“Not exactly.”

Sesshomaru presses the up arrow and, once the doors open, guides Ms. Higurashi inside. He has visited the rooftops of several magnificent buildings in Tokyo. The skyline has evolved over the centuries. Where he once saw the mountains circled around the city, the landscape is now enhanced by towers of light. Ms. Higurashi is sure to enjoy the view. It will serve as a consolation prize after he beats her.

“How many nights a week do you eat here?” she asks as they ascend.

“Once or twice. I’ve been a patron since they opened a few years ago,” he answers.

“You don’t cook?”

“I have an enterprise to run. My leisure time is limited,” Sesshomaru reminds her.

“Everyone needs to eat, even you,” she returns, giving him a pointed look. “Do you ever come with your parents?”

“My father and I typically associate at the office. He spends his evenings with his wife.”

“What about your mother? Do you still have a good relationship with her?” Ms. Higurashi inquires.

“I do,” Sesshomaru confirms, “but she has a life of her own. She sits on the board of many prominent associations. Her evenings are an array of cocktail hours, fundraising dinners, and exclusive events. Like me, she rarely has time for a home-cooked meal.”

“That sounds lonely.”

Sesshomaru considers Ms. Higurashi’s remark. While it’s true he is more often alone than not, his life is one of purpose. He chose this path. Others may be content to laze about. Sesshomaru prefers to take action. He wishes to be successful and powerful. If the road to fulfilling his goal must be traveled alone, then so be it. The journey will make him stronger.

“No one achieves anything alone,” Ms. Higurashi comments. “If you prove to your dad that you’re an accomplished CEO, can you claim that you did it all by yourself?”

“Yes.”

“No,” she refutes. “You weren’t born with an inherent understanding of corporate finance or how to properly handle a multi-company merger. Those were things you learned. You developed skills over time through sessions with your mentors and the education you received. The final actions may be yours but to be a competent leader, you need support from others.” She pauses, smiling. “No one achieves anything alone.”

Sesshomaru smirks. “Yet you refuse to assist me.”

“Because I believe you can be a leader without a mate and without lying to your father.” Her eyebrows pinch together and she pokes a finger at him. “Don’t stoop to his level.”

“Hn.”

He’s starting to think that he made a mistake. He shouldn’t have told Ms. Higurashi she could keep her job. Sesshomaru should have offered her a role as his assistant. She is far more intelligent than that skittish, boy who follows him around the office. And much more pleasing to look at.

A chime announces that they’ve reached the roof. Ms. Higurashi doesn’t hesitate to step out ahead of him. She passes through the doorway and exits into the night. For a second, her figure is outlined in the glow of the city, a physical halo that mimics the one she possesses inside.

Sesshomaru is struck by the vision. He wanted Ms. Higurashi to see something extravagant, a view that makes her face light up. Sesshomaru never anticipated she would outshine the landscape. She’s more brilliant than any of the towering buildings behind her, more luminous than the stars overhead. He is utterly captivated.

When he moves toward her, the decision isn’t conscious. Sesshomaru isn’t aware of his footsteps or how his hand reaches out toward Ms. Higurashi’s hair as it sweeps over her shoulder in the night breeze. He catches himself before his fingertips touch those delicate strands.

This is not the time to falter. He cannot allow this momentary truce to affect him. No matter how extraordinary he finds Ms. Higurashi, the chance of her feeling the same is razor-thin. Sesshomaru can’t gamble his future on this woman. He cannot allow himself to fall into the same false sense of hope that his mother did.

“It is time.”

Ms. Higurashi faces him, her brow furrowed until she takes in his expression. He waits for her to say something sarcastic or snap at him the way she did in the car. Instead, Ms. Higurashi rolls up her sleeves and smiles. “You’re in a rush to be sent home, licking your wounds.”

This time, Sesshomaru doesn’t repress his chuckle. “The only thing I am in a rush for, Ms. Higurashi, is to prove a point.”

She shucks off her heels. Her bare feet are separated from the concrete by an almost invisible layer of nylon. He has battled many opponents before but none that disregarded their footing the way Ms. Higurashi does. She kicks aside her shoes and raises her fists. “Ready when you are.”

“Ms. Higurashi—.”

“I’m not as fragile as I look, Mr. Taisho.” She unrolls one fist to gesture for him to advance. “Hit me with your best shot.”

Keeping his instincts in check is difficult. Sesshomaru has never struggled with impulse control. He is not some insolent pup who acts without thinking. He is grounded by his purpose. But hearing her ask him to do this makes it hard for him to remember what that purpose is.

Ms. Higurashi is inviting him to attack her, to dominate her. She isn’t one of those ridiculous female daiyokai who parade around in fine silks and hide behind their fans at the first sign of trouble. Ms. Higurashi is different. She doesn’t try to be something she is not. Even when she impersonated Ms. Naraku, she was true to herself. Ms. Higurashi knows who he is. She understands the power he possesses. Yet she stands here, without a weapon, without shoes, and without fear.

Sesshomaru will reward her with a swift defeat.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Kagome sees the change in Mr. Taisho’s gaze. Crimson leaks into his golden irises like blood seeping from a wound into water. She’s seen yokai and hanyos transform. The transition differs depending on the clan and the individual’s personality but some similarities exist. Red eyes are a clear indicator of an upcoming change. Kagome has never been frightened by it.

But she’s never seen her CEO transform.

Mr. Taisho has always been intimidating. Kagome is familiar with his impassive expressions and his sharp tone. She’s seen the precision he wields at the office. He can cut down an opponent with words as easily as he can run them through with his claws. This knowledge should terrify her. Engaging with yokai is dangerous, especially one as powerful as him. Kagome should lower her hands and tell Mr. Taisho that she surrenders. That would be a sane response, but her traitorous body has a decidedly insane reaction.

Her CEO has a reputation for being aloof. He doesn’t foster connections with others. Instead of embracing the open-door policy his father implemented, Mr. Taisho closes himself off from his employees. He collaborates and participated in cross-functional meetings as needed but only to ensure success. Mr. Taisho does not get involved in anyone’s personal life. Not even when birthday cake is involved. Kagome thought he was a stuck-up, pompous jerk.

Until tonight.

Hearing Mr. Taisho talk about his family changed everything. His father’s choices don’t justify his prejudice but it does explain why he’s so guarded around others, especially humans.

Kagome wishes he wasn’t. When Mr. Taisho isn’t actively trying to keep everyone at arm’s length, he’s nice to talk to. Over dinner, they discuss the company. The awkward tension from the car is gone. They speak as equals. He doesn’t scowl at her or reproach Kagome for her ideas on how to improve the Client Relations department. Mr. Taisho considers her feedback, challenges areas that she hasn’t fully thought out, and offers input on how to expand her ideas into other departments.

He’s clever, which isn’t surprising. It’s his thoughtfulness that causes Kagome to question this thing between them. She would call it attraction, except this connection feels stronger than a silly schoolgirl crush. It feels like the real thing. That's what terrifies her.

Kagome shakes the thought from her head. She’s being ridiculous. Letting herself be swept away by whispered words and a fancy dinner isn’t an option when that person is her boss. Regardless, Kagome can’t help feeling a pull toward him. It has nothing to do with the fact he’s a wealthy CEO or a mighty daiyokai. Her feelings aren’t impacted by the literal sparks that fly when they touch. She thinks of the way he brushed her hair back in the car and how he watches her talk about the company. Kagome remembers how her heart raced at his suggestion they meet up again. He offered to let her pick their next activity. She tries not to read too much into these seemingly inconsequential actions.

Tries and fails.

Because his little actions add up— a hand on her lower back and the way he places himself between her and others. She wonders if all inuyokai are wired to be protective. Then Kagome remembers how Touga Taisho abandoned his mate and she has her answer.

Her skin prickles. Kagome blinks, realizing she’s wasting time thinking about things that are better left unsaid. She needs to focus. Losing to Mr. Taisho isn’t an option. Fake dating would make things more complicated. Kagome has to win. She has to protect her heart.

It’s impossible to know who moves first. One second, the rooftop is lit by a single light by the stairwell, and the next it is illuminated by bursts of colorful light. The poisonous fumes encompassing Mr. Taisho’s claws emanate a green glow. Kagome’s responding barrier glistens a brilliant shade of pink.

He slams his fist against her shield. It holds firm. Despite her thundering pulse, Kagome manages not to flinch. Mr. Taisho lowers his hand and takes a step back.

She waits. Kagome can’t predict his next move. She has to trust in her instincts, knowing her reiki will manifest in retaliation.

When Mr. Taisho charges again, he lashes out with a whip of light. The cord is so brilliant that the color appears white. It isn’t until the weapon strikes her barrier that Kagome recognizes the color is actually a blend of green and yellow. She also notices that the whip has broken through.

Kagome pivots and dodges Mr. Taisho’s second strike. She narrowly avoids being hit as his whip shatters her barrier.

She panics, not sure what to do. It’s been years since someone managed to break through her shield. Back then, Kagome expected her opponent to succeed. It had been part of her training. She built up her strength and over time learned how to construct a barrier so perfect that no one could get through.

Except for Sesshomaru Taisho.

If Kagome had her bow, she could shoot him down. Without her weapon, she has no way of stopping his next strike. The light crackles angrily as it recoils. Kagome watches it snap above his shoulder then immediately launch toward her. She throws her hands out. It’s a reaction that is equal parts defense and determination.

Kagome braces herself for the heat of the hit. Just before the end of the whip slashes through her outstretched fingers, there is a pulse. She feels her reiki surge. It bursts out of her with the force of a tidal wave and engulfs everything in its path, including Mr. Taisho’s light whip.

As soon as their energies collide, the whip splinters and breaks apart. Mr. Taisho drops the handle. It’s the only part that remains whole. The remainder of his weapon dissolves into specks of yellowish-green light. They are swept up in the current of reiki. Kagome’s outburst is translucent white. It curls around the whip fragments in an upwards spiral, rendering them immobile. They glisten beneath the surface like a swarm of fireflies. However, the effort also causes her reiki to become stagnant. The two merge to form an obscure, glass-like sculpture. 

Slowly, Kagome approaches it. The creation looks like a frost flower. The natural phenomenon occurs during the changing of the seasons, usually when the temperature drops well below freezing but the ground is still warm. Linear fissures in plant stems create thin layers of ice that curl to resemble flowers.

Kagome saw one on a hike with Kouga once. She wanted to take the frost flower home to her mother but she knew as soon as they left the mountains it would melt. As for this object, Kagome isn’t sure what will happen. She doubts it would melt. It looks more likely to explode.

Carefully, she maneuvers around the sculpture to meet Mr. Taisho on the other side. He does not indicate that he notices her. His attention is fixated on the spectacle in front of him.

“What is it?” she asks.

“I do not know.”

“Have you ever heard of anything like this?”

Mr. Taisho shakes his head. “Yoki and reiki are opposite forces. There has never been an instance where they’ve combined.”

“What do you think that means? Is there something wrong with us?”

“On the contrary." He smiles— the first real one Kagome has ever seen from him. “I think it means there’s something right.”

Chapter Text

The Research and Development department of Taisho Enterprises differs from other emerging technology labs. The walls are not painted a sterile white color. The flooring isn’t the same polished tiles that cover the rest of the building. It runs on a separate ventilation system and sources all of its power from sustainable means. This department's atmosphere resembles Sesshomaru's mentor.

Bokuseno designed the floor to be an oasis. After being forced to leave the forest he once called home, Bokuseno dedicated his time to Taisho Enterprises. His first order of business was to recreate what the world had stolen from him. Everything from the vertical gardens to the hydraulic-powered security system in his department was crafted by the ancient yokai. Bokuseno is as clever as he is wise. He has an affinity for creation, whether that be by his own hand or through other means.

Sesshomaru recalls that Bokuseno was the one who fashioned his first sword. It was a wooden implement. Touga had been fine with handing over a regular blade but his mother was afraid her young pup would hurt himself. Sesshomaru remembers Bokuseno crafting the sword while they argued. He finished before they arrived at a decision. He honored Sesshomaru's mother's request without taking away Touga's authority in the matter. And he did it all without speaking a single word.

Since then, Sesshomaru has sought counsel from the tree demon. Bokuseno is the oldest living yokai in Japan. He has witnessed the many changes their world has gone through and survived them all. Sesshomaru may have the strength and speed of his father but it was Bokuseno who taught him the value of patience.

Sesshomaru strives to remember that as he enters his pin to access the lab. The frosted glass doors open to reveal a second set of glass doors. Through them, Sesshomaru spots his mentor. In his humanoid form, Bokuseno looks like an elderly man with a weathered face and thinning white hair. His hand is clasped around a watering can. As expected for this time of night, he is tending to his garden.

Sesshomaru enters his second pin to unlock the subsequent set of doors.

As the airlock releases, Bokuseno notices him. He offers Sesshomaru a brief smile before his focus returns to his plants. Carefully, he lines up the spout and deposits water into the living wall. “Burning the midnight oil again?” he quips.

Sesshomaru doesn’t respond. Instead, he moves aside to reveal Ms. Higurashi.

Bokuseno’s tired eyes fill with light. “Oh, you’ve brought a guest.”

Ms. Higurashi steps forward. “Good evening, sir. I’m Kagome Higurashi. I work downstairs in Client Relations.” She finishes her introduction with a bow.

“There’s no need to be so formal,” Bokuseno dismisses the gesture. “I’m off the clock. I’m sure you are as well.” He winks.

Ms. Higurashi glances up at Sesshomaru, perplexed by the department head's behavior. He is also surprised by his mentor's attitude. Sesshomaru expected Bokuseno to question his involvement with her. Not only is Ms. Higurashi a human; she is a miko. Neither mix well with yokai. At least that was what he was led to believe. After the events of this evening, he is uncertain. Sesshomaru is relying on Bokuseno to offer advice on the subject.

“Our visit is unrelated to the business of Taisho Enterprises. It is of a personal nature,” he states.

His mentor sets down the watering can. “It wouldn’t happen to have anything to do with a strange sculpture that arrived just before you, would it?”

“It is not a piece of art,” Sesshomaru clarifies.

Bokuseno arches a brow. “No? Then what is it?”

“I was hoping you could tell us.”

“I wish I could. Unfortunately, I believe you'll find more questions than answers here.” Bokuseno motions for them to follow him.

He leads Sesshomaru and Ms. Higurashi through his department. They pass several subunits of the lab. All of the areas are closed off from the main hallway and each other. The double entryways help limit the risk of contamination. They also work as an additional security measure.

“I’ve never been up here before. You look like you keep busy,” Ms. Higurashi remarks.

“Indeed we do,” Bokuseno responds. “Not every project is considered a win by our stakeholders. However, I believe we experience success with every endeavor. Failure is not noted based on lack of profits but by a lack of learning.” He glances over his shoulder. “Wouldn’t you agree, Sesshomaru?”

“I believe your department receives a rather generous budget considering you do not generate any revenue.”

“Not directly,” Bokuseno returns.

“What are you working on in here?” Ms. Higurashi asks, pausing outside one of the smaller rooms.

Sesshomaru peers inside to see what has caught her attention. Several vials are lined up along the counter. Each is filled to the halfway point with liquid in varying shades of amber. The wall behind the vials is filled from top to bottom with several dropper bottles. They are labeled by subject and date. To the left of the testing vials is a scale with a large, glass beaker sitting on top. To the right is the technician’s monitor.

“This is one of our most recent endeavors. We are working to replicate yokai musks. The vials you see on the tray there are the latest series of artificial inuyokai musks.” Bokuseno turns to her. “You are familiar with this project if I’m not mistaken.”

Ms. Higurashi’s cheeks go pink. “I am.”

“Quite an interesting innovation, though I’m not sure of its profitability. Regardless, it has been given priority.” He directs the comment to Sesshomaru.

“You’ve made your point.”

Bokuseno smiles. He proceeds to a chamber with opaque windows. The entrance requires badge access and a pin pad to authorize entry. Above them, there is a sign that reads ‘Confidential’. Bokuseno swipes his ID across, then inputs a six-digit code. “Your side project is located just through here.” He tells them, as the panel’s light flashes green.

The doors open to reveal a large room. At the center is a cylindrical tube that resembles an aquarium. Instead of being filled with marine life, it houses a frozen helix of tangible energy. Sesshomaru can see his yoki glittering beneath the surface of Ms. Higurashi’s reiki.

“Is it stable?” he inquires, stepping inside.

Bokuseno and Ms. Higurashi follow Sesshomaru into the lab. They surround the tube, inspecting the unknown object it contains.

“From what I can surmise, it is in stasis,” Bokuseno answers.

“Have you ever seen anything like this before?” Ms. Higurashi asks. 

“No,” Bokuseno answers. “I’ve heard the story, of course— about the creation of the Shikon Jewel. That relic was estimated to be the size of a marble. This,” he gestures to the container, “is significantly larger. And much more powerful.”

Sesshomaru observes the way her expression changes at the mention of the sacred jewel. Like Bokuseno, he’s familiar with the miko who took on a horde of demons by herself. The events were used as a cautionary tale to warn pups about the danger of reiki. Sesshomaru had never had a reason to be concerned. 

Then he met Ms. Higurashi. 

“You can measure its power?” she questions Bokuseno. 

“I don’t have to,” he responds, guiding her over to a touch screen on the side of the tube. “Usually, I monitor the asset’s diagnostics from here but as you can see…” Bokuseno trails off with a frown. 

Sesshomaru doesn’t understand his disappointment until he sees the state of the screen. The display flickers on and off. Lines of colors race in jagged lines across the panel, adding to its erratic appearance. 

“You’ve contained assets with yoki and jaki before. Why is this happening?” he inquires. 

“The chamber was calibrated specifically for that purpose. I designed this container to withstand blasts from the strongest yokai clan members, but this isn’t a product of yoki or jaki. It was created by combining yokai and reiki, two opposing forces. I can’t predict how this object will behave.”

“Is it dangerous?” Ms. Higurashi asks. 

“I can’t be certain, but I don’t believe so. It didn’t attack the members of our extraction team when they relocated it. From what I can tell, the object hasn’t released any energy. That isn’t to say that it won’t.”

She chews her lower lip. Bokuseno’s response has not quelled her fears. Sesshomaru gives him a pointed look. 

“Tell me about the events that led up to this,” Bokuseno requests. 

Sesshomaru explains their rooftop battle, making sure to leave out the part about the wager. Bokuseno may be his mentor, but he is also one of Touga’s closest friends. Sesshomaru can’t trust him. 

“Was your intention to harm Ms. Higurashi?” Bokuseno asks. 

“No. I only wished to incapacitate her.”

Bokuseno turns to Ms. Higurashi. “Did you intend to use your abilities to purify Sesshomaru?” 

“Of course not!” 

Bokuseno is pensive. He folds his hands behind him, resting the knuckles along his lower back as he circles the tube. His eyes roam over the structure inside. When Bokuseno’s gaze shifts, it lands on Ms. Higurashi first, then him. 

“I’d like to try something.”

Ms. Higurashi’s face lights up. “Have you figured out what it is?”

“I have a theory. We will need to run tests to see if I’m correct.” 

“Okay. What do we have to do?”

Those six words are equivalent to the six-digit passcode Bokuseno used earlier. However, what they unlock is not a lab but a series of actions. 

Bokuseno urges Sesshomaru and Ms. Higurashi to enter the container. He remains outside to observe. Once they are secured inside, Bokuseno instructs them to position themselves on opposite sides of the object. 

As Sesshomaru moves, he notices that the fragments of his weapon respond. He feels his yoki within the sculpture. It vibrates beneath the surface as if to beckon him closer. Sesshomaru wonders if he should have kept the whip handle. 

A weapon crafted from the combined energy of a daiyokai and a miko would be superior to all others. The problem lies with harnessing that energy. In its current form, the glass-like object is far too delicate to be molded into a blade or spear tip. Sesshomaru doubts the sculpture can be carved without shattering. It’s ironic considering how their individual powers influenced each other. 

Across from him, Ms. Higurashi is studying the object. Waves of pink light shimmer across the curved surface. The cadence increases the closer she steps toward the sculpture.

“Fascinating,” Bokuseno’s voice reaches them through a speaker panel in the ceiling. “Do you feel anything coming from the asset, Ms. Higurashi?” 

“I can feel me— not me, exactly, but my reiki. It’s almost like…,” she pauses to take a fortifying breath, “…like it wants to come back to me.” 

“Sesshomaru?”

“I am experiencing the same sensation.”

Bokuseno appears pleased. “To answer your earlier question, Ms. Higurashi: no. What you two created isn’t dangerous. Unlike your ancestor, this was produced without malicious intent.”

She turns toward the department head. “My ancestor?”

“The Shikon Miko,” Sesshomaru clarifies. “You are a descendant of Midoriko, correct?”

She whips around to face him, eyes wide. “Not many people know that.”

“I’m not many people.”

He sees the hint of a smile forming. “No, you’re not.” 

“I’m certain her story is told differently amongst humans. In the version passed down to me, I was told she fought for several days and nights before succumbing to death. However, her efforts were not in vain. Midoriko used her abilities to entrap the yokai she battled. It is unknown if she intended to create the Shikon Jewel. What is known is that she meant to kill her opponent.” 

Ms. Higurashi moves around the asset to stand next to him. “I wasn’t trying to hurt you.” 

“Nor I you. It is not in my best interest.”

“Because you want to date me?” she asks teasingly. 

“Yes.” Sesshomaru holds her gaze longer than is necessary. He wants to ensure she is aware of the change in context. Whether or not the message reaches her, is unclear. 

Sesshomaru cannot yet decipher the differences between Ms. Higurashi’s smiles. He witnessed a friendly, polite expression when she met Bokuseno. Sesshomaru observed her pleased grin in the office. There are a few hesitant smirks that he’s picked up on during their discussions. She is not a boastful victor. Her reactions are more restrained and demure, which he considers misleading. Ms. Higurashi is not someone to be underestimated. 

“I was confident my strike would never land,” Sesshomaru tells her. 

Her eyebrows raise. “You were?”

“I trusted you would deliver on your promise.”

Her cheeks are shaded in light pink. Initially, he can’t tell if the color appears because she is pleased or ashamed. Then Sesshomaru catches her scent. His concerns that Ms. Higurashi may not reciprocate his feelings are unfounded. Her interest is clear. He only wishes the path forward was as easy to discern.

“What happens now?” she asks, her attention on the asset. 

“For now, your side project,” Bokuseno emphasizes the term, “will remain here. I will continue to monitor it in a controlled environment. Once I have more details about the piece, we can discuss options for permanent placement.”

“Why can’t you keep it here?”

Bokuseno doesn’t answer. He looks to Sesshomaru to respond. 

“This chamber was designed for a specific use,” he informs Ms. Higurashi. 

She scans the chamber— everything that exists within the container and the surrounding equipment. Sesshomaru sees the change in her expression when she figures it out. “You’re using it to imprison yokai.” 

“Those who break our code must face the consequences. Any deviation could result in the exposure of our world.”

“Think of it as a temporary holding cell,” Bokuseno adds.

She frowns. “What do you do with them?”

“If they can be reasoned with, they are given a final warning and released,” Sesshomaru begrudgingly explains. 

He has never agreed with his father’s tolerance for criminals. The rules exist for their protection. If yokai do not adhere to the guidelines, they put themselves and the rest of the population at risk. Sesshomaru considers exterminating them a mercy. Their deaths ensure yokai can live on, undetected by humankind. 

“And if they can’t be reasoned with?” Ms. Higurashi questions. 

Sesshomaru doesn’t need to answer. She can tell from his solemn expression how justice is delivered. 

He waits for her indignation and anger. Neither come. Instead, he is met with understanding. There is a hopeful, almost proud look in Ms. Higurashi’s eyes. She has never looked at him this way before. No one has.

“How long have you been doing this?” 

“Over a century. In that time, the container has taken many forms. Technology has become crucial to the advancement of our kind just as it has played an important role in your evolution.”

“I never realized…,” she remarks, voice soft. “I’ve met yokai who weren’t friendly towards humans but I never thought they’d take action unprovoked.”

“They have,” Sesshomaru confirms. 

“And you’ve dealt with them on your own?”

“The elite clans have all named a successor. Each bears the responsibility.” 

Ms. Higurashi reads between the lines. “You’ve dealt with this burden alone.” 

“Bokuseno’s inventions have provided assistance.”

“I want to help too.”

Sesshomaru doesn’t find it odd that Ms. Higurashi volunteers. Even if she was as powerless as an average human, he suspects she would still offer to come to his aid. This is not because she’s attracted to him but because of her unwavering morals. Sesshomaru has never been more intrigued. 

Words fail him. Any response— even the most direct one —is not a sufficient answer. Sesshomaru cannot convey the range of his emotions or the striking sincerity of how he feels. 

He has gone into battle with comrades before. The situation is rare but it has occurred. None of those alliances survived the fight because none of those parties did. Sesshomaru didn’t care about those who fell at his side. They served their purpose. He believed if they would have been stronger, they would have lived on. 

The same consideration does not apply to Ms. Higurashi. 

The mere thought of something happening to her causes the hair on the back of his neck to rise. He will not allow any harm to come to her. Anyone who attempts such an act will meet their end at his hands. He will not be merciful. Sesshomaru will deliver a slow, torturous retribution. They will wish they never laid eyes on her. 

He clenches his jaw as his long fingers curl upward into a fist. Sesshomaru wonders if Ms. Higurashi is aware of this. She is gazing at him so intently that he believes she may. Unconsciously, he begins to lean toward her.

“Mr. Taisho?”

He stiffens. Hearing his surname come from her lips reminds him that they are barely acquaintances. 

Her fingers glide over his knuckles. “Are you okay?” 

Sesshomaru doesn’t have an opportunity to respond. Ms. Higurashi gasps, then both of her hands are grasping his own. He is too preoccupied by her voluntary touch to question her motives. She turns his palm over. Her eyes narrow in concentration as she studies him. 

Having her this close gives him the advantage of completing his own studies. Sesshomaru observes the way her bangs angle down across her face. He watches her mouth— how it pinches and purses while she’s deep in thought. Her expressions are as varied as her emotions. 

“What do you think this means?” Ms. Higurashi asks. 

It isn’t until then that Sesshomaru recognizes what occurred— or more accurately, what did not. 

He wraps his hand around hers. Ms. Higurashi stares at him, confused. “Trust me.” 

She nods and they step forward. He is uncertain if his theory is correct but the instinct to try is undeniable.

Sesshomaru brings his free palm to rest on the asset’s surface. He waits a moment for Ms. Higurashi to mirror his position. The instant her skin comes into contact with the glass-like form, the asset responds.

Everything that follows happens within seconds. The fragments of his whip glow brighter. They remain contained within the reiki shell. However, the miko’s power also reactivates. The pair shine like a beacon, causing the lab lights to flicker several times before going out. 

The only light source in the chamber is the asset. It coats Ms. Higurashi’s face in an ethereal glow which becomes more endearing based on her surprise. Her attention does not drift from the asset. Yet she is aware of him. Her hand tightens around his. Sesshomaru responds in kind. 

Immediately, the asset reverts from a solid shape into fluid waves. Neither Ms. Higurashi nor Sesshomaru is capable of reacting to the transformation before the surge of power sweeps over them.

Sesshomaru becomes aware of several things simultaneously. First, the wave feels like a warm breeze. It reminds him of the days he spent crossing the countryside in search of opponents to test his skill. It is unpolluted. There is a hint of sweetness, similar to the scent of cherry blossoms. Secondly, Ms. Higurashi has not withdrawn. She stands beside him, unflinching in her determination. She faces the assets outpouring of energy with the same bravery she exhibited on the roof. The difference is that Ms. Higurashi is no longer against him. Finally, and most importantly, there is no pain. Sesshomaru has never come into direct contact with reiki before but he knows what to expect. His skin should be burning. The attack should cause his yoki to weaken. Yet he’s never felt stronger than in this moment.

That’s when Sesshomaru realizes that he can no longer identify two energy signatures. He only feels one.

As instantaneous as the wave manifested, it vanishes. It leaves behind a thrumming in Sesshomaru’s veins that he can only describe as unparalleled power. 

The lab lights come back on. This change prompts Ms. Higurashi to blink. As her eyes adjust to the harsh fluorescent lighting, she realizes that they’re still holding hands. Her cheeks redden. Sesshomaru has lost count of how many times she’s reacted this way. It never fails to amuse him. 

“Sorry,” Ms. Higurashi apologizes, pulling away. 

His skin tingles where they were connected. Sesshomaru resists the urge to flex his fingers. “There is no need to seek forgiveness. You have done nothing wrong.” 

As if reassuring herself, she nods. She starts to speak, then gasps. 

Sesshomaru follows her gaze to her palm. There is a mark imprinted on her skin. It shimmers in the light like a fish scale. The design matches the physical form of their merged powers— a cross between a flower and a tidal wave. 

He turns over his hand. Sure enough, the same mark has been placed upon him. 

“Fascinating,” Bokuseno’s voice comes from overhead. 

Ms. Higurashi doesn’t appear to hear him. She’s staring at Sesshomaru. 

“Is this because of our powers?” 

“I believe so. For yokai, markings can denote many things. These,” he runs a single finger along the magenta stripes on his cheek, “were bestowed upon me by my father’s clan. This one,” he taps the crescent on his forehead, “by my mother’s.”

Ms. Higurashi holds up her hand. “And these?” 

“Not all markings are received at birth. Some are earned. These, for instance,” Sesshomaru rolls up his sleeve, revealing another pair of stripes, “appeared after my first transformation. They indicate how in tune I am with my yoki. This,” he says, cradling her hand in his palm, “symbolizes the bond forged between our powers and us.” 

Her eyes lock on his. Everything about the moment feels heightened. Sesshomaru can hear her sharp intake of breath and the increased rhythm of her pulse. He smells the spike in her scent. It is tantalizingly sweet as expected from a forbidden fruit. There is heat radiating off her flesh— not from shame, but elation. If Sesshomaru had any doubt about how Ms. Higurashi felt, all he would need to do is gaze into her eyes. Those blue orbs that have transfixed him for days paint a clear picture of her emotions.

He slides his hand up to her wrist, gently pulling her closer. His opposite hand comes to rest on her lower back. Sesshomaru leans in. “Our energies have accepted each other as equals. I believe we should do the same.”

Sesshomaru steps in, closing the distance between them. Ms. Higurashi’s hand lands on his chest to steady herself. He can see the indecision in her eyes. She searches his face, trying to discern his meaning. “Will you accept me?” 

Her mouth opens and closes as she tries to form a response. 

Before she can answer, Bokuseno clears his throat. “Though this evening is off the books, may I remind you both that we are still within Taisho Enterprises. I would appreciate some professionalism from the pair of you.”

Predictably, Ms. Higurashi’s face goes red. Sesshomaru glowers at his mentor.

The department head opens the door. “You may step out.”

Sesshomaru guides Ms. Higurashi out of the container. She keeps her head tucked down. There isn’t a single word of gratitude uttered, which is unlike her. She’s still embarrassed. 

It appears they will be reviewing more than the events of this evening. Bokuseno is due for a lesson in etiquette but that will have to wait until after Sesshomaru has taken Ms. Higurashi home. Their discussion requires no audience.

“Come. I will escort you home,” he offers, keeping his hand on her lower back.

“It’s fine. I’ll take the bus.”

“The hour is late. Public transit is no longer an option,” Sesshomaru argues. Even if the buses were running, he’d insist on taking her. They still have to settle their wager.

Ms. Higurashi checks her phone and curses. “I better text Kagura.”

“Did you have plans with Ms. Naraku this evening?” he inquires as she types out a message.

“No, but she’ll worry if I’m not there when she gets home.”

Sesshomaru recalls Ms. Higurashi’s address. The location hadn’t stood out to him before but upon further reflection, he recognizes that the real estate prices in that area are quite high. Ms. Higurashi would be unable to afford an apartment on her own in that district. “She’s your roommate,” he surmises.

Ms. Higurashi nods. “She’s the one who stays out late. Not me. If Kagura gets home before I do, she’ll go to the police.”

“It appears that she cares for you a great deal.”

She smiles. “Kagura used to say that I was the only one she could count on, that I was the family she wished she had instead of the one she was born into. Her father said we’re not supposed to be friends.”

“He was right,” Sesshomaru states. Ms. Higurashi’s smile disappears. She stares at him with hurt in her eyes, until he clarifies, “The bond you share is much deeper than that. You’re meant to be sisters.”

“Thank you.” Her shoulders sag in relief as she exhales. “Not many people understand our relationship— not even our high school friends.”

“Humans no longer believe in the existence of yokai but they have retained their natural instinct to avoid the threat. They are likely unaware of why they keep their distance. The response is ingrained in them the same as the need to breathe,” Sesshomaru explains.

“Guess that makes me the weird one then.”

“I would refer to it as unique.”

“Unique?” Bokuseno echoes with a chuckle. “That’s one way of putting it. The two of you certainly have a knack for defying convention.”

Sesshomaru shifts his hand from Ms. Higurashi’s lower back to her shoulder so he can face his mentor. “You have a talent for interrupting.”

“Says the one who burst into my lab in the middle of the night.”

He begins to remind Bokuseno who pays for the lab when Ms. Higurashi tugs on his sleeve. “Mr. Taisho, there’s nothing more we can do tonight. We should rest before work tomorrow.”

“Indeed.” He glares at Bokuseno over the top of her head. “I do not wish to overstay our welcome.”

“Thank you, sir.” Ms. Higurashi bows to the department head.

“Feel free to stop in anytime,” Bokuseno replies. He gives Sesshomaru a curt nod. “Until tomorrow.”

“Until then.”

Sesshomaru leads Ms. Higurashi through Taisho Enterprises to where his Acura is parked. It seems like a century has passed since he last came to retrieve the vehicle. The last several hours have been an unending sea of revelations. Sesshomaru isn’t certain how to manage all of them, but he knows which one must be dealt with first.

“As our battle ended in a draw, neither of us can be considered the winner.”

“That’s fair,” she agrees before giving him her address.

Sesshomaru already has this information memorized but he appreciates her openness. It saves him the trouble of asking a second time. He plugs the details into the Acura’s navigation system and backs the vehicle out of the parking spot.

“What should we do instead? A round of Shogi?”

“Are you a skilled player, Ms. Higurashi?"

“I’ve studied my grandfather’s techniques for a while.”

“We will have to see how his strategy compares to mine.”

“You like to play Shogi?” she asks, staring at him.

“Why are you surprised?”

“I don’t know. It just seems a bit…tame for you.”

“The Game of Generals is a sufficient means for developing battle strategies without consequence. On the board, it is merely a game. It is clear who the winners and losers are. On the field, the ramifications of a single action can be devastating. No one wins.”

Ms. Higurashi doesn’t look away from him. “I never thought of it like that.”

“Contrary to the rumors, I do not enjoy spilling blood needlessly.”

“I never thought of you that way. You can be intimidating, sure, but you’re not a monster. I imagine you have to behave that way, otherwise, the other board members would walk all over you, right?”

“Precisely.”

Ms. Higurashi sighs and leans back in her seat. “It must be hard being the CEO. You are constantly thinking of your employees, your clients, your stakeholders, and everything in between.” She makes a face. “Even if you are a Shogi master, I don’t think you can plan for every outcome.”

“There is truth in what you say. I have been able to predict almost everything in my life. Almost,” he repeats, giving her a pointed look.

The flush returns to her cheeks. Ms. Higurashi combs her fingers through her bangs and turns her attention to the scene outside the window. She clears her throat, “So, a game of Shogi then?”

“Since neither of us lost or won, I suggest a compromise. Let’s continue to meet outside of work.”

She faces him and arches a brow. “Like a date?”

He smirks. “Do you want it to be a date?”

“Mr. Taisho, I already told you—.”

Sesshomaru stops her before she can finish. “Let us refer to it as research. We need to confirm if the phenomenon that occurred this evening can be replicated.”

“Okay. When do you want to start?”

“Tomorrow?”

“That soon?”

“Are you unavailable?”

“No, but—.”

“Then it’s settled.”

The remainder of their drive is completed in silence. He can sense Ms. Higurashi’s tension. Her fingers are constantly tapping along the top of her handbag. She doesn’t make eye contact with him. Ms. Higurashi may be attracted to him, but she hasn’t warmed up to the idea of dating.

Sesshomaru wonders if her reservations are the same or if she simply has no desire to date anyone. After Touga left his mate, she refused to court another. Initially, Sesshomaru assumed it was because his father was coming back. Eventually, he realized his mother was too hurt to open herself up to another. If Ms. Higurashi has also suffered from heartbreak, she may not be interested in pursuing a relationship.

“This is me.”

He glances up to read the sign posted just beyond the intersection. They have arrived at her apartment complex.

“Thank you for driving me home,” Ms. Higurashi says, unbuckling her belt.

“Ms. Higurashi.”

Her hand hovers over the door handle. “Yes?”

“I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow.”

Chapter Text

Kagome doesn’t remember what time it was when she finally landed in bed. She avoided looking at the clock. Reading the numbers would only confirm what Kagome already knew: she wouldn’t be getting much sleep.

This is why when her alarm sounds, she angrily swats at her phone. Her aim isn’t accurate. The chime continues. Annoyed, Kagome sits up and jabs her thumb against the screen. Yet the noise persists. Bleary-eyed, she checks to see what is wrong with her phone. What she sees displayed on the screen nearly sends her tumbling out of bed.

Kagome swipes to connect the call. “Hello?”

“Good morning, Ms. Higurashi.”

“Mr. Taisho?”

“Were you expecting another call?”

“No.”

“I thought we could ride into work together. Are you almost ready?”

Kagome blinks to clear her vision. She reads the time at the top of her screen and has to fight to keep herself from screaming. “Mr. Taisho, it is five-thirty.”

“I get to the office every morning by seven,” he says as if that explains the early hour. Kagome massages her temples. No wonder people are scared of Mr. Taisho. He lives his life to the extreme. “If you’re not ready. I can wait.”

“No, please don’t. I’ll take the metro in later.”

“It would be quicker to drive,” he argues.

“It would but my team doesn’t start until nine each morning. There is no need for me to be in two hours early. We can meet up after work,” she suggests.

“For someone who claims not to be interested, you certainly appear eager to share a meal with me again, Ms. Higurashi.”

Kagome smacks her forehead. “No! That’s not what I mean! I don’t expect you to buy me dinner. I was just saying—.”

“If you’re so impatient, why not start now?”

“Huh?”

“Let’s have breakfast together. I’ll have Mr. Ueda move my meetings around so you arrive at your desk during the usual start time.”

“Mr. Taisho, that’s very generous but I’m not even dressed.”

“That’s fine. I’ll wait. See you soon.”

There is a click as the call disconnects. Kagome stares at her screen in disbelief. What just happened?

For a moment, Kagome wonders if she’s dreaming. Everything feels so surreal. To check, she pinches her cheeks and immediately winces. Okay, so not a dream. She scoffs. No, it’s more like a nightmare. Kagome runs a hand through her hair. If he had to wake her up this early, couldn’t he at least have taken his shirt off? That would be more enticing than breakfast. She wouldn’t complain about getting up then. 

Instantly, her skin grows hot. Will you accept me? Kagome swallows as she recalls the way he looked at her in the lab container. No one has ever asked her that before. If Kagome didn’t know any better, she’d think Mr. Taisho was serious.

She pinches her cheeks again. Snap out of it, girl! The only thing that guy is interested in is fooling his dad.

Kagome frowns. Why does her chest hurt? Maybe it’s because she barely got any sleep. Or maybe it’s from all the energy she used up last night. It’s been a while since she sparred with someone. Work and the shrine renovations have taken up all of her time. Kagome has fallen behind on training. She’s out of practice. Yeah, that must be the reason. It can’t be anything else. It’s not like she has actual feelings for Mr. Taisho. That would be stupid. 

The problem with one-sided romance is that you don’t know you’re in it until it’s too late. Loving someone who doesn’t see you as anything more than a friend is heartbreaking. Kagome is convinced that is why people call it a crush— because that’s how you feel the whole time: crushed. She won’t make that mistake again.

Mr. Taisho made it perfectly clear that he doesn’t intend to ever take a mate. Any interest, perceived or genuine, that he shows in her is a product of what happened on the roof at La Perilla. She can’t read into it.

So what if their conversation last night was one of the best she’s had in recent memory? And the sparring? Typical considering his background. It’s not like he was flirting with her. Taking her into a high-security lab and introducing her to one of his oldest friends? Meaningless. He probably does that with all his dates. It doesn’t matter that he’s been secretly tracking down rogue yokai and keeping the city safe. He’s not Bruce Wayne. He’s an arrogant daiyokai who cares about power and control. Just because he has a few things in common with her favorite crime-fighting superhero doesn’t mean he is a good guy. Everything Mr. Taisho has done is for a self-serving purpose. She can’t forget that.

She also can’t forget how it felt to have his hand wrapped around her own. Kagome opens her palm. The mark resembles an intricate henna tattoo. It is darker than her natural skin tone and gleams in the light. She wonders if the mark will fade over time or remain a permanent reminder of what transpired between her and Mr. Taisho.

Kagome traces the outline of the mark with her fingertip. She can still feel the pulse of their combined energies flowing through her. Kagome has been aware of her reiki for as long as she can remember. The power is ingrained in her the same as her instinct to breathe. Now, however, she is conscious of another signature— Mr. Taisho’s yoki.

The sensation is difficult to describe. His yoki is entwined with her reiki yet retains its independence. Kagome isn’t sure how she knows that, only that she does. It’s something that she’s never questioned. Some people would call it clairvoyance. Kagome just accepts it as one of those universal phenomenons she isn’t meant to understand, only accept.

Will you accept me?

Kagome drops her hand. She can’t think about that moment right now. She needs to get ready for work…at five-thirty in the morning.

With a groan, Kagome trudges over to her closet. This had better be the best damn breakfast ever made! she thinks as she tosses her pajamas into the hamper.

She scans her options. The idea of having to wear tights for an extended period of time causes her to cringe. She chooses pants. Walking around in heels for an extra two hours is torture enough. Kagome doesn’t need to add the unforgiving pressure of tights to her day. She pairs the gray trousers with a white button-up blouse and her beige jacket. To finish it off, she slips on her black pumps.

It’s not a stylish ensemble like the ones Kagura bought her but it is comfortable. That’s key. Since she’s operating on less than four hours of sleep, Kagome is more interested in comfort than style.

Quietly, Kagome carries her outfit into the bathroom. She doesn’t want to wake Kagura up. If there is one drawback to living with her best friend, it is that Kagura hates early mornings. Her demonic heritage becomes apparent when she’s woken up. Kagura’s sclera turns crimson and anything within a three-meter radius gets swept up in a wind blast. It happened once at university. Kagome doesn’t want to see a repeat performance.

She freshens up, brushes her teeth, and washes her face. As she runs a brush through her hair, Kagome spots the makeup Kagura purchased for their ruse. The products are lined up on her side of the basin, next to her skincare routine. Curious to see if she can remember how to apply them, Kagome picks up the foundation.

A few minutes later, she steps back to examine the result. Her face appears fresher. She certainly doesn’t look like the femme fatale character Kagura created. This look is lighter. Her skin doesn’t feel weighed down by multiple layers of product. She feels more like herself. Hopefully, he’ll like this version too. 

It isn’t until she finishes getting dressed that Kagome realizes she’s never worn makeup to the office before. Why is she trying to impress Mr. Taisho? Kagome shouldn’t care what he thinks. They aren’t dating! She considers removing it— she doesn’t want Mr. Taisho to get the wrong idea —but that will take even longer. She can’t keep him waiting.

Kagome tip-toes out of the bathroom, past Kagura’s room, and exits the apartment. She makes sure to keep the handle turned while shutting the door to soften the sound of it closing. Once Kagome is sure Kagura hasn’t woken up, she heads to the elevator.

She can’t stop her foot from tapping during the descent. Kagome checks her watch, biting her lip when she sees it’s been over half an hour since Mr. Taisho hung up.

The second the elevator doors open, she sprints across the lobby floor to exit the building. Her heels clack the entire way. The sound is amplified by the tile flooring and empty walls. Kagome is glad no one is around to witness her exit. The only thing more embarrassing than rushing out to meet her boss for a ‘sort-of-not-really’ breakfast date would be having a witness.

But that’s exactly what happens.

The instant Kagome steps outside, she’s met by the sight of Mr. Taisho. Her company CEO stands in front of his car, scrolling through his phone. When he hears the doors open, he glances up and smirks.

“Still eager I see.”

Kagome can’t bare to look him in the eye. Nervously, she tucks her hair behind her ear. “Sorry for making you wait.”

“The fault was mine. I did not consider how your schedule differs from my own— a detail that I will not overlook again.”

She freezes and peers up at him. Did Sesshomaru Taisho just apologize to her?

He offers her his hand— the one that bares the companion mark to her own. When Kagome gives him her hand, his fingers curl around her and he pulls her close. “I was slightly eager as well.”

Kagome gapes at him. She can’t tell if he’s serious or mocking her. Their dynamic is too confusing right now. Over the last twelve hours, they’ve gone from employer and employee to contenders to allies and, finally, to confidants. Somewhere between all that exists a ruse that has done more harm than good, especially where Kagome’s feelings are concerned. Add in her sleep deprivation and Kagome can’t separate truth from fantasy. Nothing seems real anymore.

Mr. Taisho isn’t discouraged by her lack of response. He simply leads her to the car with the same gentlemanly flair as last night.

Kagome wonders if she’s still asleep. This has to be a dream, right? There is no other explanation for her company’s CEO picking her up and treating her to breakfast.

Wait, is this a date?

Mr. Taisho opens the car door for her, waiting until she’s tucked inside to close it behind her. It’s nice. Of course manners of this caliber are to be expected from someone like Mr. Taisho. He’s from a prominent family. It would be more surprising if he didn’t open the door for her.

“Do you have a preference?” Mr. Taisho asks as he gets in.

“For breakfast?” Kagome almost laughs. “Is there anything even open at this hour?”

“I know a place.” He shifts the car into drive and they are off.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

When Sesshomaru decided to invite Ms. Higurashi to join him for a meal, he didn’t plan on that meal being breakfast. Unfortunately, it's his only option. Today’s schedule is tight. He will be working right through lunch until his monthly dinner at the Taisho family estate.

Sesshomaru considered declining. Then his father mentioned that his half-brother would be in attendance. Inuyasha has been on the move for the past few years. He rarely stays in one place for long. If he is back in Tokyo, there must be a reason. Sesshomaru doesn’t know what Touga wishes to discuss but he is certain it has to do with Inuyasha’s reappearance. It’s imperative that Sesshomaru is at dinner. Regardless, he regrets waking Ms. Higurashi so early.

She turns toward the window and stifles another yawn. He contemplates stopping at a cafe. There are a few decent ones close to the office. Considering how hard Ms. Higurashi is trying not to let her lethargy show, Sesshomaru is certain she’ll appreciate a boost of caffeine.

Almost as much as she would have appreciated a decent night’s sleep. 

It’s his fault she’s barely able to keep her eyes open. Humans require regular periods of rest. Sesshomaru knows this yet he insisted on seeing her. His desire is selfish. He wants to consume everything from those rare, shy smiles to that fiery anger she possesses. It’s irrational— this need burning in his veins— but Sesshomaru doesn’t try to extinguish it. He allows it to grow.

The more time he spends in Ms. Higurashi’s presence, the more he becomes aware of himself. Just as his energy signature changed, so too has Sesshomaru. Feelings that he has repressed for centuries spring up with renewed life. He treats some, such as curiosity and intrigue, like old friends. Others are less familiar.

Guilt remains a new concept for Sesshomaru. There was no place for such emotion on the battlefield. Sentiment clouds the mind. Empathy hinders progression. Attachment weakens resolve. These are the lessons of survival. Without them, he and his clan would have become extinct. 

Though the risk of exposure remains a concern for his kind, it has lessened significantly. Illusions and barriers have kept yokai safe for the last couple of centuries. Those with humanoid forms were at an advantage. Some ancient demons, like Bokuseno, were able to adapt. Other, lesser demons, like his vassal, Jaken, were not as lucky. 

Despite the imp’s centuries of servitude, Sesshomaru did not shed a tear when Jaken passed. He felt nothing. There was no remorse or loneliness. Sesshomaru simply accepted that what had once been was no more. By comparison, this morning’s events are considerably less impactful, yet he experiences regret.

Sesshomaru has never allowed anyone or anything to control him before. His motivations have always been centered around his goals. He has never been prompted to change course for another’s needs. However, no other has ever challenged him the way Ms. Higurashi has. No other has demanded so much of him while expecting nothing in return. She is truly a unique woman.

“Where are we going?” she asks.

“To the lab.”

Her eyes go wide. “Your want to eat in there?”

“Not in the lab. We are merely visiting that department to select our food. We will be enjoying our meal in the comfort of my office.”

She continues to stare at him. “Mr. Taisho—.”

“Sesshomaru.”

“Huh?”

“I believe we are acquainted well enough to speak informally when we are outside the office. Don’t you agree?” He displays the mark on his palm. 

Ms. Higurashi chews on her lower lip. “I guess that’s true.”

“If it makes you uncomfortable, I will continue to refer to you by your surname.”

“No, Kagome is fine.”

“Kagome then.” He appreciates the fresh flush that appears on her cheeks when she hears him say her name. “Bokuseno’s lab produces the freshest materials within the city. I assure you that it will be a finer meal than the one you enjoyed at La Perilla.”

“Is cooking a hobby of his?”

“No. Bokuseno prefers raising his seedlings. Parting with them— even if for noble means —required some convincing.”

She smiles. “I wouldn’t call breakfast a noble pursuit.”

“But it is a necessary one.”

“Maybe for me. I know you’re doing it to keep up appearances.”

“I take it Ms. Narkau does the same?”

“Yeah, Kagura never liked eating very much. It wasn’t something she did at home. Once she started attending school, she would just sit in the corner by herself, staring at a piece of fruit or a slice of bread. I don’t think I saw her actually eat something until the day I brought her home with me.”

Sesshomaru is curious about Kagome’s relationship with Ms. Naraku. The two are close which is rare but not unheard of. Touga, for instance, is enamored with his human partner. Kagome and her roommate are different. Given Ms. Naraku’s family, Sesshomaru suspected ulterior motives behind the friendship. Ms. Naraku proved him wrong. If there is one person she despises more than him, it is her father, Onigumo Naraku. That is the first thing she and Sesshomaru have in common. The second is their deep-rooted connection to Kagome.

“Yokai can struggle with adapting to human culture. You require a consistent cadence of sleep and nourishment. We do as well, though much less frequently. After a millennia of operating at will, having to adhere to a new standard of behavior can be uncomfortable.”

“I didn’t realize. I mean, I know yokai age differently but sometimes I forget how long you’ve been around.” Kagome sighs. “Jeez, back then, Kagura must have thought I was being really pushy.”

“I wouldn’t concern yourself with the past. Clearly, your persistence worked in her favor.“

Kagome tilts her head. “What do you mean?”

“The Naraku clan has been the subject of controversy for as long as I can remember. They do not possess the same history as the other bloodlines, yet their power suggests they deserve to be recognized amongst the daiyokai. Allowing them to be included in our ranks sparked quite a debate. Eventually, they were permitted in but distrust remains. I suspect Ms. Naraku hasn’t had many allies. You were likely the first person to reach out to her.”

“But I’m not a daiyokai. I’m human.”

“Irrelevant. Your compassion became the foundation for your relationship.” 

She is quiet for a moment. Then Kagome’s lips twitch and she starts laughing. 

Sesshomaru raises an eyebrow. “This amuses you?”

“I can’t believe you said that!”

“Pardon?”

“You! Mister Yokai-Are-Superior-To-All just said that it doesn’t matter that I’m human.”

Sesshomaru stills. He didn’t consider her status when he spoke. While there isn’t anything untrue about that statement,— Sesshomaru maintains that yokai are superior —he acknowledges that Kagome is different. She doesn’t fit into any classification. She’s on a level all her own.

“Aren’t you going back on your word, though?”

“How so?” Sesshomaru inquires.

“Last night, you said I could select today’s activity, but here you are, picking me up and deciding where we’re eating.”

Sesshomaru briefly takes his focus off the road to check her expression. Kagome appears completely unaware of the opening she’s left him. He plans to take full advantage of it. “That was when we were discussing our future dating plans. Our wager negated that unless you’d like to renegotiate, which I’m not opposed to. I’m interested in hearing your proposal.”

Predictably, her face colors. “I wasn’t proposing anything!”

“That is disappointing. I enjoyed our evening together.”

“Really?” There is genuine surprise in her voice.

“Indeed. Though the night did not go as anticipated, I am satisfied with the outcome.”

“But you didn’t win the wager,” she reminds him.

“I didn’t lose either.”

They lapse into silence. There is weight to his words. He can see her assessing them, trying to decipher the meaning. Likewise, Sesshomaru attempts to identify what is holding her back. Initially, he believed it was trust but if that was the case, their powers wouldn’t have merged. Kagome must understand that he would never intentionally hurt her— even if only at a subconscious level.

Since he determines trust isn’t the issue, Sesshomaru decides it must be another. There were no photographs featuring a couple on her desk. Kagome doesn’t wear a ring. Whoever the person was, he either rejected her or is no longer around. Sesshomaru is uncertain which situation is worse. Neither offers an easy solution for him.

“I had a nice time last night,” she admits quietly. “I like spending time with you as Kagome Higurashi rather than pretending to be Kagura Naraku.”

“I prefer that as well.”

“It’s fun to be around someone who gets me. Most of my friends don’t know about my abilities. They think the shrine is just a place where I grew up. They don’t understand its significance. To them, yokai and powerful priestesses are characters in old legends. They think they’re just stories. And the ones who do know…,” she trails off.

“They expect you to behave a certain way,” Sesshomaru concludes.

Her face lights up at his recognition. “Yes! It feels like they forget that I’m a person. They see me as a miko— not as Kagome. My family acts that way too, especially my grandfather. They pay more attention to my abilities than my feelings. Sometimes I wonder who the real me is. Am I Kagome or am I a miko?”

“You are whoever you choose to be. Your spiritual powers are a part of you but they do not define you. Your choices and your actions determine your fate. Only you can decide what that fate will be.”

She is staring again. Her eyes are full of wonder. Kagome wears the same expression that she did when they created the glass sculpture from their power merge. It’s a mixture of disbelief and awe as if she can’t quite believe he is real. 

Sesshomaru realizes how short-sighted he’s been. Dating will never suffice. A ruse is out of the question. What he wants now– what he needs –is to make the fantasy a reality. He’s going to court this woman until she agrees to be his mate. 

Chapter Text

Returning to the lab wasn’t on Kagome’s plan for today but neither was waking up at 5:30 for an impromptu meet-up. Of course, having Sesshomaru as her date is a pretty nice consolation prize. It almost makes up for the fact he woke her two hours early.

Almost.

While Sesshomaru enters the access code to the lab, Kagome hides another yawn. She’s never been a fan of coffee. Today may change that. Kagome wonders if Bokuseno has a spare IV drip that she could borrow. The sight of it might cause a few of her coworkers to wonder about her mental state but at least she’d get through work without falling asleep at her desk.

“Back so soon?” Bokuseno greets them with a smile. He doesn’t appear surprised to see her again. 

“I require your shears,” Sesshomaru states, strolling through the workspace as if he owns it.

Technically, he does, Kagome thinks. 

Even if his name is listed on the title deed to the building— and everything contained within —Kagome wishes he would be a bit kinder to Bokuseno. The elder yokai's expression changes from welcoming to annoyed. Sesshomaru doesn’t register the shift. Or he may have decided to ignore it. Either way, poor Bokuseno looks ready to revolt.

He wags an angry finger at Sesshomaru. “If you think you can come in here and displace my seedlings without warning—.”

Sesshomaru ignores his mentor. “I require sustenance. Your ingredients are the best.”

“Of course they are! I don’t use pesticides or additives. Everything that exists here lives as naturally as possible,” Bokuseno replies.

Kagome eyes the ceiling, knowing one of the few exceptions is sunlight and rain.

Bokuseno catches her studying the panels. “Ah, you have a keen eye. Not many people notice that. Did you ever wonder why there is an outdoor employee area on this floor?”

She shakes her head.

“It is because of this.” He goes over to a control panel on the wall and presses a button.

The ceiling panels automatically slide open to reveal a system of clear pipes. “We gather all the rainwater from the roof and the balconies to power the lab. Once it runs through the system, the water is filtered and deposited in the garden.”

“That’s how you power the lights,” she guesses.

Bokuseno nods. “We can’t replicate pure sunlight but these lamps are close.”

“It’s amazing,” Kagome praises his ingenuity. She knows Taisho Enterprises is committed to sustainability but seeing how far they’ve taken their involvement is inspiring. “I can see why you like being here.”

The yokai elder chuckles. “Doesn’t matter if I like it or not. I don’t have a choice.”

Her brow creases. “I don’t understand.”

“I’m a tree demon. Without constant sunlight and fresh water, I would become too weak to exist in humanoid form. I would revert to my original form— that of a magnolia tree.”

Kagome can feel the deep-rooted sadness in his words. There is regret in Bokuseno’s eyes, showing his longing to exist as his true self. There is also a sense of relief. While Bokuseno may miss his former life in the forest, here at Taisho Enterprises, he is protected. He lives in a sanctuary of his own creation.

“I’m sure Sesshomaru is glad to have you here.”

Bokuseno scoffs. “He is glad I grow such delicious fruits. That pup has quite a particular palette.”

“I think he just prefers the finer things,” Kagome comments.

Bokuseno gives her a knowing look. “Indeed.”

Kagome’s hands come up. “No! I wasn’t talking about me. I meant food. He only eats at those expensive restaurants downtown. I didn’t mean to imply that he and I….that we are— .”

“Stop harassing her.”

She freezes at the sound of Sesshomaru’s voice. He stands off to the side with a basket full of vegetables. Her face ignites as she wonders how much of their conversation he heard. 

“Do you intend to take everything?” Bokuseno cries, stomping towards him.

“I picked what was ripe. Would you prefer them to die on the vine?”

“They would fall off and become nutrients for their sisters and brothers.”

“Who would also die. Why not put them to good use?” Sesshomaru challenges.

Bokuseno’s arms cross over his chest. He doesn’t appear to share Sesshomaru’s logic. Considering his true form, it makes sense. To Kagome and Sesshomaru, consuming the plants grown in Bokuseno’s garden seems natural. To Bokuseno, it’s akin to parting with his children. She’s not sure how to remedy the situation.

Sesshomaru is unconcerned. He continues perusing the garden as if it were his personal supermarket. “Did you change the code to the hatchery?”

“Why do you need it?” Bokuseno demands.

“I am preparing our breakfast. The meal would not be complete without fish.”

“Then the meal will be incomplete,” Bokuseno grumbles.

The two begin to bicker. Watching the yokai elder scold Sesshomaru is entertaining. It reminds Kagome of the way Gramps chased her around the shrine that time he caught her and Kagura sneaking out to a party. Despite their agitated body language and harsh words, Kagome can see how much they care for each other. Sesshomaru never raises his voice to Bokuseno. He maintains his composure, allowing his mentor to shout and point a finger at him. It’s comical and extremely surprising. Kagome didn’t know Sesshomaru had this side to him.

She also was unaware that he could cook. When he suggested breakfast, Kagome assumed they’d be eating out. Then he mentioned the lab and she figured Bokuseno would do it. Kagome never expected Sesshomaru to make her a meal. 

“How are you going to cook the fish? I doubt a Bunsen burner is going to work,” Kagome points out.

Her question interrupts their verbal volley. Bokuseno mutters something under his breath and stalks off, leaving her with Sesshomaru in the main lab.

“Do you have a full kitchen in your office?”

“The executive break room has everything we require. It is regularly stocked with a wide variety of items,” he explains.

“Then why steal from Bokuseno’s lab?”

“Because I only eat the best.”

Kagome can’t argue with that. She can see the glossy, green skin of the cucumbers and smell the dirt clinging to the mushrooms he collected. His selections are much fresher than the produce at her local market.

“Do you prefer salmon or mackerel?” he asks.

“Salmon, please.”

Sesshomaru nods and disappears into one of the side labs.

Kagome walks around. Last night, she was so focused on discovering the reason behind their power merge that she didn’t notice everything the lab has to offer. The gardens take up a majority of the main area. Smaller rooms line the sides, separating each project into its own private chamber. She pauses outside the one housing the artificial musk project.

When Kagura first told her about the musk Kanna was developing, Kagome didn’t question it. While Kagura is actively working on bringing down her father’s company, Kanna is doing everything within her power to make it successful.

Kanna has always been gifted. Her ability to perceive things before they happen is uncanny. Kagome doesn’t know if it’s a special yokai skill or just a healthy dose of intuition. Kanna can predict everything from upcoming market trends to the winning team of a soccer match. If anyone is clairvoyant, it’s her.

Which has Kagome questioning why Kanna engineered the musk. Humans can’t smell the difference, only yokai can. So what reason could Naraku have for developing it?

“There you are.” Kagome turns to find Sesshomaru waiting for her. He still has the basket of vegetables but now it is joined by a tray of fresh salmon. “Ready?”

“Let me help you.” Kagome grabs the fish out of his hand. “You can’t carry both and badge us out of the lab.”

Sesshomaru nods in agreement.

The lab’s security protocol is extremely strict about what enters the lab and what leaves it. Kagome understands how critical it is to protect Bokuseno’s work from the outside world. However, until last night, she hadn’t considered that the same logic can be applied in reverse. She hopes that doesn’t include the food they are leaving with.

“Is Bokuseno still mad?” she asks, noting that their host hasn’t returned.

“His ire is temporary. He is aware that it is far better for these items to be consumed than to disintegrate into the earth without a purpose.” Sesshomaru swipes his badge and punches in the access code at the exit.

“You don’t feel guilty at all, do you?”

“Do you regret your meals?” he questions. Kagome shakes her head. “Eating is a key component for survival. It is not an act that should inspire guilt.”

“I guess that’s true but, for Bokuseno, it’s different. He doesn’t live off of vegetables and fish. Don’t you think that bothers him?”

“I am certain it does. However, I believe he would be in far worse pain if his efforts went to waste. The life he has built sustains more than his existence. It serves as home to several forest yokai.”

Kagome’s eyes go wide. “Really? But I’ve never seen anyone but Bokuseno.”

Sesshomaru smirks. “Then you haven’t been looking closely enough.”

Her nose scrunches up. “What do you mean?”

“Bokuseno is the only one capable of holding a humanoid form. The others all exist in their true form.”

Kagome glances over her shoulder, looking back at the lab. “The trees and plants?”

Sesshomaru nods again.

Her gaze shifts to the filleted salmon in her tray. “You didn’t….?”

“What Bokuseno raises in the lab is no different than what human farmers raise in the countryside. I would not sacrifice yokai life to sate my hunger.”

Kagome exhales in relief. “Good.”

“You do not regard me in a positive light.”

“No! I—.”

“Have I been that disagreeable?”

“No,” Kagome insists, “that’s not what I meant. What I was trying to say was that I’m still learning who you are— you know, the man behind the mask.”

He frowns. “I am neither a man nor do I wear a mask.”

“It’s a saying. It means uncovering the real person underneath your work persona,” she explains.

“You believe I behave differently outside of the office?”

She nods.

“Perhaps it is not the location that determines my behavior but the company I keep.”

Kagome doesn’t know what to make of that. Her heart is fluttering the way it did in the car. When he told her that she was the one to decide her fate, she hadn’t known what to say. Kagome has talked about the pressures of her double life with Kagura. Her best friend listens to her complain about the rants Gramps goes on, how Souta pesters her to do tricks, and how she constantly has to lie to their other friends about her reiki. It helps.

Kagura understands the pressure Kagome faces because she operates under similar expectations. Kagura hides the fact that she is yokai, while Kagome pretends she is a simple shrine maiden. Both keep their inherent abilities a secret. It’s one of the reasons they bonded. They are both living on the outskirts of society— part of the world yet apart from it.

Kagome thought she was fine with having only Kagura to rely on. But there is a key difference between her situation and Kagura’s. Onigumo Naraku wants his daughter to marry into an elite clan, produce an heir, and further his line of succession. The expectations he has imposed on her are for his selfish gain. Kagura wants no part of it.

For Kagome, her family’s wishes are that she live to her full potential. They believe that means serving the community at the shrine. Gramps wants her to take over from him. He sees it as a natural progression. Mama thinks she’ll be safer at the shrine, knowing it’s one of the few places Kagome can safely train and access her powers.

While Kagura is actively fighting against her father, Kagome is stuck between the person she wants to be for her family and the person she wants to be for herself. While Kagura understands what Kagome is going through, she will never relate to it.

Sesshomaru can.

Their situations are the same. Sesshomaru is under pressure from his family to fulfill certain goals. While he shares the same goals, he doesn’t wish to take the path laid out for him. Sesshomaru wants to succeed on his own. As the eldest son, he is expected to take over Taisho Enterprises from his father. There is a long-standing tradition of passing down the company to the first-born son. Titles, land, and other assets are typically inherited by the eldest son with the expectation that he will pass down the same to his child. In order to do that, Sesshomaru will require a mate.

Kagome agrees that it is a ridiculous stipulation. Having a mate doesn’t affect Sesshomaru’s ability to effectively run the company. He is capable of being successful without a partner.

It’s the same for her. Kagome doesn’t have to stay at the shrine to help others. Originally, she planned on pursuing a degree in medicine. She wanted to provide assistance that extended beyond her reiki abilities. Unfortunately, the shrine’s ancient infrastructure took a severe hit during her senior year. That was how the unending list of renovations— and contractor bills —began. Kagome didn’t have the money to obtain a degree and save her ancestral home. She made a choice.

Had it not been for Kagura, Kagome would have been stuck physically too. Kagura gave her the opportunity to move out. By living outside the torii gates, Kagome is able to provide assistance to more than just the shrine visitors. She volunteered at Kouga’s foundation, worked at the library, and even did a stint as a tutor. She is free to choose her own path.

It’s not that she doesn’t like living at the shrine or that she resents being born a miko. Kagome loves her abilities. The challenge is balancing both sides of herself. She has one foot in the human world and one in the yokai world. It’s ironic. The very thing she lectured Sesshomaru about the night they met is the thing she struggles the most with. 

“How do you do it?” she asks Sesshomaru. “How do you manage to run this company and stay a loyal son?”

“I doubt my father would refer to me as such.”

“Of course, you are! You arrive here early every morning to take care of the employees and our clients. You go from meeting to meeting, ensuring we develop the best products in the marketplace. Then at night, you’re out there tracking down rogue yokai and keeping everyone safe. You do everything and you balance it all. How?”

“You fear that you do not?” he surmises.

“I know I don’t. I haven’t trained in months. I haven’t been volunteering. All I’ve been doing is working to pay for the renovations.” Sesshomaru holds her gaze, giving her a moment to catch her breath. “It’s not that I don’t want to do it. I do. I love my family and the shrine. I’m glad I’m able to help them. It’s just…”

“You wish to do more,” he finishes for her.

“Yeah,” Kagome confirms.

“Then do more.”

“How?”

“You can spar with me. It will be an efficient use of our time. We can test replicating the events of last night and practice our techniques.”

“But where would we train?”

“My house.”

Kagome stalls. “Your house?”

Sesshomaru stops in the middle of the hallway to look back at her. “I have adequate space and state-of-the-art security. We won’t have to worry about being interrupted or seen.” 

Kagome can’t argue with that. The main reason she hasn’t been training is that she doesn’t have time. The other is that she doesn’t have anywhere to do it. Or anyone to train with. “Okay. When do you want to start?”

“Do you have plans this Friday?”

“No.”

“Then we shall meet after work.”

He says it so candidly that it feels as if they are friends. Kagome reminds herself not to read into this. Given the increased frequency of their meetings, Sesshomaru’s informality makes sense. It’s not like they can ignore what happened last night. Their power merge could be the first one created since Midoriko’s jewel. They need to determine how and why. The only way to do that is by spending time together.

Sesshomaru guides her upstairs to the executive break room. Like the lab, this section of the company requires badge access. Once they are inside, Kagome can see why.

The executive break room isn’t just stocked, it is overflowing. Bags of coffee beans and jars of tea blends are racked across the top of one counter. Everything from a French press to a cappuccino machine is available for use. On the island that separates her from the hot beverages, are tiered bowls with fresh fruit.

Across from the counter is an open area that faces a wall of glass overlooking the city. The space is larger than her entire apartment. There are leather couches and chairs, accompanied by side tables. If she had to guess, Kagome would estimate the furniture costs more than her annual salary.

“This way,” Sesshomaru directs, walking past the island. He opens a door on the right.

Kagome finds herself in a kitchen that could rival the one at La Perilla. “We’re cooking in here?”

“I’m cooking. You are going to sit.” He gestures to a  stool.

“But—.”

“Sit,” Sesshomaru repeats, taking the salmon from her.

Kagome chews on the inside of her cheek. She feels awkward without anything to do. Usually, she’s the one making the meal. The last time someone other than Mama made her breakfast, it was because she was too sick to get out of bed. Kagura tried to make her miso soup. Kagome couldn’t eat it. They ended up having takeout instead.

She climbs onto the stool and leans forward on her elbows to watch him debone the fish. “I’ve never had a CEO cook for me before.”

“I’ve never had anyone to cook for,” he returns.

“You never got this far with any of your other blind dates?” Kagome teases.

“I doubt any of them would appreciate it,” Sesshomaru replies. “They are more concerned with their appearance than useful skills.”

Kagome rolls her eyes. “Jeez. No wonder you called them irritating.”

“Indeed.”

She watches him slice through the salmon and carefully extract the pin bones. He doesn’t use pliers. His claws are more precise for removal. The needle-like bones clink as Sesshomaru drops each one into a ceramic bowl at his side.

“When do you learn to cook?” Kagome asks.

“After my father left.”

She inwardly cringes. Kagome didn’t mean to bring up bad memories. “I’m sorry.”

“The fault is not yours. My father made his choice. I made mine. As the head of our house, I needed to provide for my mother. I requested that the staff train me so I could fulfill that role. Our chef, Akio, was the one to teach me how to cook.”

“How old were you?” Kagome questions, unable to help herself.

“Yokai do not measure their age as humans do,” Sesshomaru explains. “By your standards, I would estimate I was around four or five.”

Her eyes go wide. “That young?”

“Would it have been any better if I was older?” he inquires as he rinses off the filets.

“No, I guess not. Still…you were just a child. How could anyone expect you to do all that?”

“The only expectations I labored under were my own. My mother was distraught. She was incapable of managing the staff and maintaining our home. Those tasks fell to me.”

“You didn’t make a choice,” Kagome says. Sesshomaru hands freeze over the sink. His gaze shifts to her. “You weren’t given one.”

Their vocal cadence halts as he stares at her. The only sound is the water rushing out of the faucet. Kagome can’t tell if she’s offended him or not. Sesshomaru’s expression gives nothing away. For a moment, she considers apologizing. But saying sorry won’t change the past.

An apology can’t make up for the fact that Sesshomaru was forced to grow up. It won’t erase his reason for coveting power. All this time, Kagome had him pegged as a self-centered jerk who was obsessed with wealth and influence. She thought Touga Taisho handed the company to his son on a silver platter. She couldn’t be more wrong. Sesshomaru isn’t the jerk.

She is.

Kagome formulated her opinion of him based on her limited interactions and second-hand information. Even though her first impression of Sesshomaru wasn’t much better, she can’t hold it against him. Neither of them went to La Perilla with good intentions. He wanted to get the blind date over with as quickly as possible and Kagome didn’t want Kagura’s father to find out about their ruse.

Her head hangs. She never gave Sesshomaru a chance. I’m just as bad as Touga Taisho, Kagome laments.

A hand cups her chin, forcing her to look up. “Do not say that. You are the only person who has ever viewed my decision in a different light,” Sesshomaru tells her. He runs his thumb along the curve of her cheek. “I never considered another option.”

“Maybe you should,” she suggests. Gently, Kagome peels his hand off. Sesshomaru pulls away. He watches as she hops off the stool to come and stand beside him. “You’ve carried this burden alone long enough. It’s time you learn how to accept help.”

“Are you offering, Ms. Higurashi?”

“If you’ll allow it, Mr. Taisho.”

“Very well then. Could you begin preparing the vegetables?”

“I’m on it.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

At five of nine, Sesshomaru sits alone in his office. There are more meetings on his calendar than hours in the day and his inbox is overflowing. His phone rings incessantly. Everyone is looking for him. Everyone is waiting on answers. Normally, he would be agitated by the late start.  

Not today.

“You’re in a good mood,” Mr. Ueda observes from the doorway.

The sound of his assistant’s voice reminds Sesshomaru of the conversation he had with Kagome yesterday evening. “Mr. Ueda, you claimed provided me with all the details you could find on Ms. Naraku, did you not?”

His assistant enters the room, clutching his tablet in hand. “Yes, sir.”

“May I ask why you failed to bring up your personal relationship with her?”

His assistant blinks. “Sir?”

“You and Ms. Naraku attended school together, correct?”

“Yes, but—.”

“So you were familiar with her prior to my father scheduling our blind date?”

“I was, but—.”

“You didn’t find that history to be relevant information when I asked you for a report on her?”

“No.”

Sesshomaru rests his elbows on the desk and folds his hands in front of him. “Were you aware that Ms. Naraku’s roommate, Ms. Higurashi, is employed here?”

“I just recently became aware, sir.”

“She is a former schoolmate of yours as well, isn’t she?”

“Yes,” Mr. Ueda confirms hesitantly. Sesshomaru stares at him. Mr. Ueda frowns. “I don’t understand, Mr. Taisho, why are we discussing Ms. Higurashi?” He drags his finger across the tablet’s screen. “Is it because tomorrow evening is the Client Relations team dinner?”

Sesshomaru stiffens. He forgot about his commitment to attend the first round of team outings. Since Sesshomaru won’t see Kagome tonight due to his family obligation, he planned on driving her home from work. That isn’t an option if they’re attending a work function. Unless…

“Schedule a meeting with Ms. Kuwashima and Ms. Higurashi for tomorrow.”

Mr. Ueda’s finger taps against the screen. “Will Friday work, sir? Ms. Kuwashima is offsite tomorrow to run the Nagoya branch’s quarterly training.”

Sesshomaru scowls. Friday is not ideal. He’d prefer to have things official before the Client Relations team dinner. Unfortunately, it can’t be helped. There is no time to meet with HR today. He will have to be patient.

“Schedule it for first thing Friday morning,” he demands.

“Yes, sir. Will there be anything else?”

“No, you are dismissed.”

Mr. Ueda bows and exits the office.

Sesshomaru leans back in his chair, thinking about what Bokuseno told him earlier.

“Do you have any idea how unique a find that woman is?” his mentor asked. When Sesshomaru didn’t immediately answer, he went on to explain. “It’s no wonder her reiki manifested as pure white. That color symbolizes purity and integrity— both of which are rare traits.”

“What do the shades yellow and green symbolize?” Sesshomaru inquired. 

Bokuseno gave him a knowing look. “Yellow typically denotes happiness and intellect. In your case, I’d say it means confidence. Green is the color of responsibility and courage. They are all valuable traits for a leader and complementary to hers.”

Complementary, indeed.

Sesshomaru intended to speak with his father tonight. Touga’s insistence on these blind dates must be mitigated. Sesshomaru had prepared to prove his competency as a leader through facts and metrics. He wasn’t planning to submit a counteroffer. Kagome changed all that. 

She may not be from a high-ranked clan like her roommate but she is certainly powerful. Sesshomaru doubts he could find a daiyokai stronger than her. Furthermore, if what concerns his father is truly his ability to become a compassionate leader, there is no one better suited for the task than Kagome. She has been championing for it since the night they met.

Sesshomaru changes tactics. Throughout the day, he jots down notes on her morals, abilities, and motivations. In between meetings, he reviews the list, adding to it where necessary. Sesshomaru wants to ensure he leaves nothing out. Capturing everything about this woman is a challenge but he is up to the task.

By the time he leaves the office, Sesshomaru has a complete outline for his proposal. He slides into the back of his town car with a satisfied smirk. His father has no idea what is about to occur. Sesshoamru only hopes Inuyasha is present for his performance. He will relish the look on the half-breed’s face.

“Did you have a productive day, sir?” Mr. Ogata questions.

“I did,” Sesshomaru responds. “I made excellent progress on a new initiative. I plan to close the deal before the end of this week.”

“I’m sure your father will be pleased to hear that.”

“Indeed he will be.”

His driver gives him an encouraging nod.

Sesshomaru leans back in his seat. He runs through the key points in his outline, establishing a rhythm for his speech. One of the best ways to enter a discussion such as this is to have an approach mapped out. Akin to having a strategy on the battlefield, plotting out the course for a conversation ahead of time can determine if it will be successful or fail.

He does not intend to fail.

If his father wants him to pursue a female with mating in mind, that is what Sesshomaru will do. It just won’t be a female of Touga’s choosing. Sesshomaru has found his partner.

The car rolls to a stop in front of the Taisho estate. There is a pause while security permits Mr. Ogata entry. Once his driver’s identity is confirmed, they proceed through the gate to the main house.

The Taisho estate is a vast property containing seven buildings and a reinforced perimeter. Sesshomaru has never lived at his father’s residence. The time he spends here is limited to these obligatory dinners. Touga refers to them as family meetings but Sesshomaru sees them for what they are— an exercise in control.

He enters the main building, an ornate wooden villa that could house the entire eastern wolf tribe. The only permanent occupants are his father and Izayoi. His half-brother, Inuyasha, visits almost as infrequently as he does.

One of the staff opens the door for him. “Welcome home, Lord Sesshomaru.”

He inclines his head in acknowledgment.

“Your father is in the library.”

Sesshomaru follows the man to the rear of the house. The family library contains works from both yokai and human authors ranging in publication dates from the Nara period to now. His father also has a collection of ancient scrolls with the original yokai clan family trees. Sesshomaru hasn’t read them in centuries. Touga preserves the ancient texts within a glass cabinet. These days they are more for display than research. 

The man stops outside the room. Sesshomaru thanks him and waits until he disappears down the hall to enter.

Touga stands across the room, facing the courtyard. The side door is propped open allowing the night breeze to flow inside. From where he stands, Sesshomaru can see the moon peeking over the roof of one of the guest houses. It doesn’t shine nearly as brightly as it did in Kagome’s presence. 

“Sesshomaru! I wasn’t certain if you’d make it.” 

“You stated that this dinner was important so I had my assistant clear my schedule.” 

His father grins. “Good. I’m glad you’re prioritizing your family over work.” 

Sesshomaru doesn’t remark on the slight. He closes the library door. Their conversation does not require any eavesdroppers. “Father, about the blind dates—.”

Touga cuts him off before he can set the stage for their discussion. “I heard you visited Ms. Naraku at her office.”

“I did.”

“I also heard that after your visit, you stopped seeing each other. Is that true?”

“Yes.”

Touga’s relaxed demeanor wilts. “I’m disappointed in you, Sesshomaru. Ms. Naraku is intelligent, attractive, and she holds an executive position within Spyder Tech. She could have been a valuable asset to you.”

“I am aware of her qualifications. However, I found a more agreeable match.”

The grimace his father gives him cannot be understated. “You mean your work. Bokuseno informed me of your late-night visits to the lab. Your role at the company is important but so is finding a mate. Which is why I’ve set up another blind date for you tomorrow evening”

“No.”

His father stares at him. “Excuse me?”

Sesshomaru’s frustration with his father grows. It is evident that Bokuseno left out the details of his visit, including the part where he was accompanied by Kagome. “I have a prior commitment. I will not be attending the date. Make sure the female you selected is aware. It would reflect badly on the Taisho name if she were to receive the wrong impression.”

“Sesshomaru, you are being unreasonable!”

“No, father, you’re the one who is being unreasonable. I came here tonight with a counterproposal, yet you offered me no opportunity to negotiate.”

“This isn’t a negotiation. It is the future of our clan!”

“I am well aware. I spent the better part of today preparing for this discussion. I have successfully managed the company on my own for a few years. We’ve made great strides but there is more to be done, which is why I’ve decided to pursue—.”

“Sesshomaru.” His father interrupts with a heavy sigh and shakes his head. “If you insist on proceeding this way, against my counsel—.”

“I do.”

“— then you leave me with no choice. Take a mate by the end of the year or forfeit your role at the company.”

Sesshomaru glares at his father. He is aware that they do not share the same beliefs but he never thought his father would act irrationally. Now, he understands how his mother must have felt. “You would cast out your son?”

“I’m trying to help you.”

He scoffs. “You’ve never aided me. Not once in my entire existence have you cared enough to assist me. Everything that I am, all that I have done, has been of my own making.”

“Which is why you remain alone.”

“I am not alone,” Sesshomaru returns.

He can tell by the hardened looked in his father’s eyes that Touga doesn’t believe him. There will be no victory tonight. His father’s ultimatum has robbed him of it. He turns and walks out of the room.

“Sesshomaru!”

Touga’s protests fall on deaf ears. He shoves open the doors, unsurprised to find Inuyasha lurking outside.

His half-brother sneers at him. “Better find someone soon, or I’m taking over.”

“Do not concern yourself, half-breed. I have no intention of giving up my title.”

He speaks with confidence, yet as Sesshomaru exits the house, his assurance dwindles. Courting customs between yokai and humans differ. Though most are initiated with the idea of mating or marriage in mind, there isn’t a set date for the event to occur. Starting a relationship with Kagome under these circumstances will put undue pressure on her. It could also make her question his motives, especially considering how they met. He needs time to think about how to approach this with her. 

If Sesshomaru isn’t careful, he could lose more than his place at Taisho Enterprises.

Chapter Text

No new messages.

Kagome glares at her cell phone and tosses it into her purse. The bag sits open in the bottom of her desk drawer. Kagome usually keeps it locked up during working hours. They aren’t supposed to be on their personal devices during working hours but she couldn’t resist a quick peek. Not that there was anything to look at. She slams the drawer shut.

It’s been 30 hours, 15 minutes, and 27 seconds since Kagome saw Sesshomaru.

After he opened up to her yesterday, she expected him to call her, or at the very least type out a quick text message. She didn't get anything. The only calls Kagome has received are a couple of check-ins from Kagura and one from Kouga to make sure she is still coming to the shrine this weekend. Renovations are the last thing on her mind right now.

Sesshomaru told her about dinner. He made it clear that he wouldn’t be able to see her last night. She’d been surprised to hear that he was eating with his family. Given the strained relationship between Sesshomaru and his father, Kagome figured it wasn’t a common occurrence. She was curious to hear what warranted the invite, and even more curious to know why he accepted.

She thought Sesshomaru would call her on his way home. In fact, Kagome had been so certain she’d hear from him that she spent the night laying in bed with her phone propped up next to her. He never called.

This morning, when she left her apartment, Kagome exited the complex through the front doors. She usually takes the side exit because it’s closer to the metro station. Thinking Sesshomaru might be waiting for her, Kagome had gone the other way. No one was there.

If Kagome was tired yesterday, it was nothing compared to how she felt today. At least yesterday she’d gotten a few precious hours of sleep. Today, Kagome trudged into the office with bloodshot eyes and a healthy dose of irritability.

She doesn’t understand. Their breakfast date went well. Their ability to work together wasn’t limited to sparring, as proven by their successful collaboration in the kitchen. They prepared a well-balanced meal that kept her satisfied until lunch. But the food wasn’t the best part.

Sharing a meal with Sesshomaru in his office was a wholly different experience from eating with him in a restaurant. The room was roughly the same size as the executive break room. It was divided into two areas. On one side was a set of leather lounge chairs positioned around a mahogany table. To their right was a ceiling-to-flooring shelving unit, containing everything from professional journals and business texts to awards the company had obtained over the years.

In the center, facing out toward the chairs was a cutout. A padded bench was placed there. There was a cupboard overhead that Kagome guessed was used to store bedding in case Sesshomaru chose to stay the night. The other side was where Sesshomaru’s desk sat. It was meticulously organized. There wasn’t a single sticky note out of place. Kagome hadn’t expected anything less. Given how diligent Sesshomaru was about deboning the salmon, she figured he’d be particular about how his desk was arranged.

He was also particular about keeping it clean. They ate their meal on the other side of the office.

Kagome quickly found that the table between the leather chairs was more for show than function. It was far too low to serve as a dining table. So she improvised.

When Sesshomaru saw her kick off her shoes and tuck her legs under herself, he chuckled. He made a comment about it becoming a habit of hers but that didn’t stop him from doing the same. If someone had told Kagome a month ago that she would be having breakfast with Mr. Taisho on the floor of his office, she would have thought they were crazy.

What was really crazy was how much she enjoyed it. The food was fantastic but it was their conversation that had Kagome wishing she would have woken up sooner.

It started off with questions she had about the yokai taking sanctuary at Taisho Enterprises. Sesshomaru shared the details of how he’d come across them and their eventual move into the building. He made a point to mention Bokuseno’s contributions as well as those of his driver, Agyo Ogata. Like Bokuseno, Mr. Ogata adapted to take on a humanoid form. The dragon demon has been Sesshomaru’s companion for over five hundred years.

After Kagome asked how they met, Sesshomaru led the conversation. She didn’t have to prompt him quite as often. He told her about his travels, the skills he developed, and those he fought along the way. The more he spoke, the clearer his reason for selecting the office became. Kagome realized that Taisho Enterprises is where Sesshomaru feels most comfortable.

And he invited her to share a meal with him there.

So why hasn’t he reached out to me?

Kagome sighs, slouching in her chair as she scrolls through her inbox. Sesshomaru going radio silent isn’t the only reason she’s upset. Yesterday, Ms. Kuwashima from Human Resources scheduled a meeting for tomorrow morning. When Kagome asked what it was in reference to, Ms. Kuwashima informed her it was to review the Employee Code of Conduct. Translation: Someone saw her leave Sesshomaru’s office.

Is that why he’s avoiding me? 

She bows forward, stacking her arms on the desk and resting her forehead on top. Kagome thought Mr. Taisho would be the one to fire her. It turns out she was worried about the person.

But who caught them? Kagome made sure to leave before Hojo arrived and no one else works on that floor. The only other employee she saw that morning was Bokuseno. He has no reason to report her.

As Kagome wracks her brain, trying to figure out who reported her to Human Resources, Mr. Inada passes by her desk. A shiver runs down her spine. Of course. Mukotsu Inada has had it in for her ever since she reported him to HR for what she suspected was an attempt to drug another female employee. If Mr. Inada’s goal is to retaliate by getting her fired, so be it. Kagome stands by her choice.

He nods to her as he passes, his beady eyes roving over her. “Ms. Higurashi.”

Kagome resists the urge to gag. Regardless of her assumptions, he is still a director. She can’t ignore him. “Good morning, sir.”

“Enjoy the team outing this evening.” The words have a friendly meaning but his tone contradicts that.

Kagome watches him proceed through the department. He makes no effort to hide his smug grin. If Kagome didn’t suspect him before, she does now.

Mr. Inada is famously unpleasant. His constant frown and slouched posture make him resemble a toad. Ironically, that’s what the women in the office call him, though that has less to do with his appearance and everything to do with his personality. Kagome’s allegations against him weren’t enough to get him fired but that didn’t stop her from warning others about his behavior. She isn’t the only one who keeps her distance from him.

Sighing again, Kagome wonders if it’s even worth going to the team outing. Today is likely her last day at Taisho Enterprises. Why bother going out with people who will be strangers come tomorrow?

She glances down at her desk drawer. Focusing has been a struggle all day. Kagome wants to blame her lack of sleep but she knows the main reason is Sesshomaru. His constant pursuit used to annoy her. She never met someone with single-minded determination. At best, that level of focus could be considered a compliment. At worst, it was intimidating and exhausting to keep up with. Kagome thought she'd be glad once he gave up the chase, but now that it's gone, she feels as though something is missing.

Kagome wasn’t looking to date someone. She was content with sharing an apartment with Kagura, visiting the shrine on the weekends, and working at Taisho Enterprises. Her time was divided between those three pillars. Then she met Sesshomaru and everything changed. Suddenly, Kagome had to make space for a fourth area in her life: romance.

I guess I’ll never learn.

Her unrequited schoolgirl crush was bad. Back then, it had felt like her entire world was caving in— mostly because her world was so small. Going to Uni had opened up her eyes to the bigger picture. She helped Kouga establish his foundation and began volunteering. Working with displaced yokai and hanyos gave her a different perspective. Kagome realized there was more to life than chasing a guy who would never see her as anything more than a friend.

Back at square one, she laments. Sesshomaru probably doesn’t consider her a friend. For him, their relationship is based on an equal exchange. She’s an ally. It’s a rare connection for him. Kagome should be pleased but all she feels is a growing ache in her chest.

A hand falls onto her shoulder. “Are you alright?”

She glances up to see the newest member of their team studying her. Kagome recognizes how she must appear to her coworkers. Being slumped over at her desk with bloodshot eyes is not a good look.

“Oh, hey, Mio. I’m okay.”

Her coworker frowns. “Are you sure you’re not sick? You look pale.”

“I’m fine. Really,” Kagome insists, waving her off.

Mio isn't convinced. Regardless, when Kagome doesn’t say anything else, she returns to her desk.

Kagome takes that as a cue to turn her attention back to her computer screen. She’s halfway through a complaint about delayed shipping times when Mio reappears. “Here.” She hands Kagome a coupon for the corporate cafe. “I got this during new hire training. It’s for a free drink. I want you to have it. Take a break. Go get a coffee or something to help you perk up.”

There is an unbidden pinching sensation in the corner of her eyes. Kagome takes a deep breath. She can’t be emotional at work, especially not with Mr. Inada sneaking around. “Thank you,” she manages to say as she accepts the coupon.

“I’m glad I could do this for you,” Mio responds. “You did so much for me when I came on board. Everyone else got annoyed with me for asking so many questions but you never did. You always took the time to review things in depth and make sure I understood, even if that meant staying late to finish your own work.”

“We’re one team. It’s not my success or your success. It’s our success,” Kagome tells her.

Mio purses her lips. She starts to say something, then pauses to look around. Everyone is either away from their desks at meetings or lunch and Mr. Takumi’s office door is closed. Regardless, Mio leans down when she replies. “That’s why you should be the manager. You care about everyone.”

Kagome almost starts crying again. Mio’s unexpected kindness and uplifting words remind her why she chose a job in Client Relations. It’s not about the money. It’s about the people and how connecting to others feels purposeful. Kagome is also reminded why getting a healthy amount of sleep is important. Without rest, all of her emotions are heightened and difficult to manage. The sooner she gets to the cafe for coffee, the better.

“Thanks, Mio. If I ever become manager, you’ll definitely have a place on my team.”

Mio gives Kagome a kind smile. While a final pat on her shoulder, she returns to her workstation.

Kagome stares at the coupon. Going to the corporate cafe means taking the elevator down to the ground floor. The cafe is located across the lobby on the corner of the building. It is open to visitors including partners and interview candidates. Employees use it as both a break room and a meeting location. There are booths in the back that lend themselves to more formal discussions, while the main area of the cafe boasts a more relaxed atmosphere.

Though the probability of seeing their elusive CEO amongst the patrons is slim, there is still a chance. Mind made up, Kagome logs off her computer.

Her steps are a bit unsteady. The heels she chose to wear seemed like a good idea this morning. Kagome should have known she’d regret that decision. Sleep deprivation and stress are taking a toll on her.

She pauses at the elevator bay and checks her watch. It’s ten minutes to three. The team outing is a little more than two hours away. That’s two hours until seeing Sesshomaru. Kagome doesn’t know if she is excited, nervous, or just plain scared. His sudden absence has her teetering worse than her heels.

Kagome considers reaching out to him. She bites her lower lip. There isn’t any harm in that, right? She could pass it off as a friendly check-in to make sure they are still on for tomorrow night.

Unless I’m unemployed…

While she debates whether or not to text him, the elevator doors open. Two of her coworkers step off, each holding a cup from the cafe.

“Hi, Higurashi,” the first one greets her. “How are you?”

She plasters a smile on her face. “Fine, Ando. How is your day?”

“Great,” her coworker beams.

“Higurashi, you’re coming tonight, right?” the second, Minoru Kato, asks.

“I’ll be there,” she confirms.

“It should be fun. I can’t remember the last time we all got together. We’ve been working so hard,” he says.

“Yeah,” Ando agrees. “I’m glad Mr. Taisho can’t make it. I need a night out, not another meeting.”

Kagome stiffens. “What do you mean ‘can’t make it’?”

“Oh, didn’t you hear the rumors? Apparently, Mr. Taisho’s father wants him to get married. He arranged a blind date for him this evening.”

Kato shakes his head. “I’m glad my parents aren’t pressuring me to settle down yet. I’m only twenty-seven.”

“It’s different for people like the Taisho family,” Ando replies. “They don’t want a good match. They want a lucrative one.”

There is a pang in her chest that makes it hard to breathe.

“Higurashi, are you alright? You’re shaking,” Ando observes.

“I’m just a little tired.”

He frowns. “Will you be okay to come out tonight? Maybe you should tell Mr. Takumi that you’re sick and go home to rest.”

“I’m sure the coffee will help,” she tells him, displaying the coupon Mio gave her.

“Okay. See you later then.” Ando gives her a wave and Kato smiles.

Kagome watches them enter the Client Relations department. Ando and Kato since have been on the team since she joined the company. They are dedicated workers with a talent for identifying client feedback that could become upsell opportunities. The sales team loves it and often treats them to nights out. Because of their close relationship with the Account Executives, they usually find out about things before Mr. Takumi does. They knew Touga Taisho was stepping down before anyone else in the department did. They were also the first ones to discover it was Sesshomaru who was taking over.

As the elevator descends, Kagome wonders if they misconstructed the details around Touga Taisho’s request or if the rumor mill has expanded on the truth. She knows Sesshomaru’s father wants him to take a mate— that was the reason behind their initial meeting— but she thought he was done with blind dates. Had she misunderstood?

A chime alerts her that she’s reached the main floor. Kagome badges through the security turnstiles and crosses the lobby to the cafe. There are several people waiting for a post-lunch caffeine boost. Kagome takes her place at the back of the line.

She peers over the heads of those in front of her, trying to figure out what to order. There are over a dozen options on the menu board. Each promises a surge of energy, yet none of them sound satisfying. Kagome listens to the people ahead of her. Based on their orders, the cappuccino is popular so she opts to try that.

When Kagome steps off to the side to wait for her drink, she spots her friend in the corner booth. “Hey, Hojo.”

He looks up from his tablet. The tension in his face eases as he smiles at her. “Hey, Kagome. I’ve never seen you in the cafe before.”

She slides into the booth across from him. “I thought I’d try it out. What are you doing down here? I thought you’d be upstairs supporting Mr. Taisho.”

Hojo’s face falls. He shifts in his seat. “I am. Sort of.”

Her question makes him uncomfortable. She wonders if he knows about her meeting with HR. Given the look on his face, he probably does, which makes this exchange even more awkward. “I understand if it’s confidential. You don’t have to tell me.”

“No, it’s not that,” Hojo tells her. “My problem is handling his latest request…I’m not sure how to go about it.”

“Why? Are you unfamiliar with the tools you have to use?”

Hojo’s cheeks turn red. “I guess you could say that I don’t have a lot of experience in this department.”

She doesn’t know what to make of his response. He refers to his task in professional terms yet his face reminds her of how flustered he used to get when a girl confessed to him in high school. “Could you reach out to one of the managers in that area for a knowledge transfer session?”

“I don’t think they’ll be able to help me.”

Kagome gets the sense that he’s hinting at something but she can’t tell what it is. “Is there anything I can do?” Before he can answer, Kagome’s order is called. “Don’t worry, Hojo. Whatever task, Mr. Taisho has given you, I know you’ll succeed.”

His smile returns. “Thanks, Kagome.”

“I’ll see you tonight at the team outing,”

“Oh.” Hojo looks uncomfortable again. “No, I won’t be attending. This evening, I am assisting Mr. Taisho with Ms. Yajima.”

“The actress?”

Hojo nods. 

Suddenly, Kagome feels cold. She doesn’t register anything Hojo says after that. Yura Yajima isn't just a celebrity. She's a yokai. Her flawless skin and voluptuous form have spearheaded her rise to fame. Ms. Yajima is one of the highest-paid actresses in the country. She isn't part of an ancient clan like Kagura. Ms. Yajima totes new power: the influence and wealth of the entertainment industry.

The hollow ache in Kagome's chest feels like a physical wound. The sensation is so raw and visceral that she glances down to make sure there isn’t a gaping hole. Her movements are stiff. She accepts her drink and marches out of the cafe.

Kagome returns to the fourth floor in a haze. She doesn’t hear her coworkers greet her as she passes their desks or notice the watchful gaze of Mr. Inada as he loiters by the printer. Kagome glides by like a silent specter, lost and adrift. 

This is what she wanted, right?— for Sesshomaru to find someone else to contractually date —so why does she feel so awful? 

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After leaving his father’s, Sesshomaru journeyed north. He could not think within the confines of the city. The noisy lanes of traffic wedged between metal skyscrapers were suffocating. Sesshomaru longed for open spaces and clean air. He needed freedom to roam, to return to his origins: the wilderness.

He declined Mr. Ogata’s offer to drive him outside the city limits. The dark of the night provided sufficient cover for his transformation. He shed his suit for a coat of silver-white fur. No sooner did his paws touch the grass than he was off, sprinting across the yard towards the mountains.

When Sesshomaru took off, he did not have a destination in mind. He merely ran. The more distance he put between himself and the Taisho estate, the less stifling the air around him became. The weight of his expectations has always been heavy but this latest burden may prove to be more than Sesshomaru can bear.

It’s time you learn how to accept help. Hundreds of kilometers away, Kagome’s voice found him. Sesshomaru nearly turned on his heel to seek her out. He knew where she was. She’d told him her favorite thing to do was curl up in the apartment with a book. He wondered how she’d like it if he curled up around her. In his true form, it was a simple feat. The problem was that he wouldn’t fit in her apartment.

That was easily remedied. Sesshomaru would buy her an apartment large enough to accommodate both of them— and any additions they chose to have. Had he been in his humanoid form, he would have grinned. In his true form, his lips merely twitched. Regardless, it was enough to prompt him to continue on.

His travels led him to Totosai’s forge. The famed swordsmith rarely crafted weapons anymore yet he maintained his residence inside an active volcano. Sesshomaru could not discern if the senile yokai’s decision was a product of his personality or due to insanity. Given the salary he received from Taisho Enterprises, Totosai was more than capable of affording a less exotic home.

The business world recognized the title of General Counsel to mean the head lawyer of a firm. When Touga appointed Totosai, he took the position to mean that Totosai was an advisor to the company. That error had never been corrected.

Sesshomaru did not care for the eccentric hermit. He found Totosai’s unreliable nature aggravating. Even more distasteful was his constant feigning of illness. The yokai isn’t as old as Bokuseno yet boasts dozens more issues. Sesshomaru can only be in his presence for brief periods of time. Which was why he kept his visit short.

Despite his many failings, Totosai possesses a talent even more useful than his ability to forge weapons. He holds Touga’s trust. If Sesshomaru wishes to do the same, he will have to learn from Totosai. It is the only way to maintain his position at Taisho Enterprises without forsaking Kagome.

Or so he thought.

Totosai was less than receptive to his request for assistance. The hermit kept insisting that the change Sesshomaru sought was in his own heart, not his father’s. He explained Kagome was human. Totosai was unimpressed. He stated that being mortal was not important. Sesshomaru brought up her origins. Totosai scoffed. He claimed Midoriko’s lineage had no significance to the yokai clans. Sesshomaru disagreed but he opted to change tactics.

He shared the phenomenon that occurred between their powers. Totosai stared at him. Several minutes passed while the old yokai’s eyes bore into Sesshomaru. He was certain this information would change the swordsmith’s mind. But all it did was make him laugh. Totosai dismissed him without another word.

With a ferocious growl, Sesshomaru charged down the mountain. He chided himself for expecting assistance from his father’s ally. Totosai had never gone against Touga’s wishes. Sesshomaru assumed the hermit would help since he and his father wanted the same thing. He was wrong.

Sesshomaru spent the evening pacing his office. He considered telling Kagome what transpired at the Taisho estate. Surely a direct approach would be best. Then he was reminded of how she looked at him when he proposed that they date. If Sesshomaru springs mating on her, it is unlikely she will believe his feelings to be genuine. Their relationship is too new, too fragile. It won’t survive a falling out of that magnitude.

What they need is the one thing Sesshomaru doesn’t have.

Time.

Golden Week is just around the corner. Soon the children will be released from school for summer break. A few months later, the chill of Autumn will descend upon the country. Not long after that, the first snow will fall and before he knows it, people will be preparing for the new year. He has approximately nine months to court this woman.

Of the battles Sesshomaru has fought, this is the most crucial one. A single misstep could cost him the company, Kagome, or both. He needs a strategy, but unlike his previous fights, this one’s course of action cannot be easily mapped out. There are far too many variables.

It was not enough that his father gave him an ultimatum. His half-brother overheard the entire conversation. Inuyasha may be a brash, reckless hanyou but he is a Taisho. If Touga backs him, the shareholders will too. Sesshomaru will be forced to step down from Taisho Enterprises.

Without his authority as CEO, he will be incapable of protecting the company. Everything that he has worked to build over the last few years will be at risk, including the livelihood of his employees. He doubts Inuyasha understands capacity management or retention rates. Sesshomaru would not be surprised to learn that the hanyou is illiterate. His half-brother was never one for studying. How can their father leave the company to someone like that?

And what about the miko? Being forced out of Taisho Enterprises would hurt his pride. Disconnecting from Kagome would be devastating. To be denied her warmth, her soothing scent, her compassionate heart would be akin to losing a limb. Sesshomaru will forever be haunted by the sensation of what once was. He will not allow it.

Sesshomaru’s entire life has been spent in the pursuit of power. His path began with necessity. Power meant the ability to protect and provide for his mother. Once he succeeded in that endeavor, his motivations changed. It wasn’t enough to simply take care of his mother, Sesshomaru needed to prove it to his father. In turn, however, he realized Touga was not concerned. Anger turned Sesshomaru’s search to spite. If he couldn’t impress his father, he would become superior to him.

While Touga reminisced about the past, Sesshomaru looked toward the future. He expanded the company. They broke ground in countries where alliances had never been formed before. Their product portfolio grew and so did their profits. Sesshomaru invested in acquiring new companies and better talent. He was on target to double their annual revenue before his fifth year as CEO.

Growing the company wasn’t his only accomplishment. Sesshomaru also took on his father’s role as guardian of their lands. Whenever a rogue yokai entered his domain, the perpetrator was immediately brought in. Sesshomaru gave the offending party an opportunity to plead their case before giving them a choice. Either they accepted and adhered to the rules of the modern world or he would grant them a merciful death.

Contrary to the nickname he had earned in the office, Sesshomaru did not prefer needless slaughter. There was no joy earned by taking a life. For some, there was justification. Sesshomaru could not permit a few yokai to risk the exposure of all. He wished for the remaining yokai to be safe. It was the reason why he funneled funding into Bokuseno’s lab.

For those who were unable to sustain life in the human world, the tenth floor served as a safe haven. Bokunseo’s sanctuary had been created with forest yokai in mind. Over time, it had evolved to include those who called the waterways their home. The next stage was a temperature-controlled chamber for those who lived in the mountains.

When Sesshomaru considered his duties, being the CEO of Taisho Enterprises was not so different from serving as the Lord of the Western Lands. The more he took on, the harder it was to balance his dual roles. Kagome was correct. It was time he found someone to share his burden with— not just a mate, a partner.

That was not the only thing the miko was right about. The conversation with his father had proven another thing. Touga Taisho was a jerk. It had taken Sesshomaru centuries to realize what Kagome had figured out in a few short weeks. No matter the lengths Sesshomaru went to, despite the hundreds of achievements he had earned— none of it would ever be enough in his father’s eyes. His accomplishments were not appreciated. They were expected.

He had lived long enough laboring under those expectations. Now it was time to do the unexpected.

The instant he made his decision, Sesshomaru recognized what Totosai meant. It isn't enough for him to accept Kagome as a human or wish to take her as his mate. The issue isn’t about proving her worth. He must be worthy of her. Sesshomaru needs to let go of the anger he holds toward his father in order to fully embrace Kagome as his other half.

He reached for his phone. His hand slipped into his suit pocket to find nothing but air. Frowning, Sesshomaru realized the suit he was wearing was not the same one he wore to the Taisho estate. He left the latter strewn across the yard. Normally, he would not mind. Purchasing a new suit is of little consequence. However, this particular one has his phone, a direct line to Kagome. 

Unaware of the time, Sesshomaru contacted his assistant to fetch the device. Fortunately, Mr. Ueda was able to locate it. Unfortunately, he did not arrive at the office until after Sesshomaru’s meetings kicked off.

Now, he is trapped in a lengthy review of corporate protocol and compliance policies. Any goodwill Sesshomaru felt toward his assistant has evaporated.

Sesshomaru taps a single finger against the table. He has considered firing his assistant every day since the moment Mr. Ueda was introduced to him. However, he has never been more adamant about that suggestion than right now. Had he known the final meeting on his calendar today was this senseless drivel, Sesshomaru would have asked security to remove Mr. Ueda from his sight. He can not afford to waste any more time.

The second the presenter stops speaking, Sesshomaru is out of his seat. He doesn’t pause to thank the man. Mr. Ueda can handle that. Sesshomaru has more important matters to attend to.

He intended to speak to Kagome prior to the Client Relations team outing. That opportunity no longer exists. Sesshomaru will have to devise a plan for pulling her away from her colleagues. They can’t risk people seeing them together before the meeting with Ms. Kuwashima.

As he heads out to his car, Sesshomaru considers subtle ways to pull her aside. Making up a project is not an option. Even if Mr. Takumi is not familiar with their portfolio, he is certain to catch on to any signs of favoritism. Kagome’s manager worries more about job security than his people. That is a problem for another day. Tonight, Sesshomaru’s sole focus is the miko.

“Good evening, sir,” Mr. Ogata greets him and opens the car door

“Kinka, please,” he requests, settling in.

“Of course, sir.”

The rush hour traffic delays Sesshomaru’s arrival to the izakaya. While his driver navigates around lanes of merging vehicles and public transit, Sesshomaru checks his cell phone. A reminder pops up on his screen to notify him of his upcoming blind date with Ms. Yajima. He deletes the meeting from his calendar.

He doubts his father made the appropriate accommodations for her. Touga probably expected him to show. Sesshomaru has no intention of doing that. He also does not plan for the woman to tarnish the Taisho name for being stood up. It seems Mr. Ueda still has some usefulness after all.

He swipes through the other messages. There are a few from his executive team, several from his assistant, and one from his mother. Not a single one is from Kagome. Sesshomaru scowls and tosses the phone aside.

“It’s up here on the left, sir. Once we get around this—.”

“Let me out here,” Sesshomaru demands.

Mr. Ogata studies his reaction through the rearview mirror. With a nod, he maneuvers the car closer to the sidewalk. He turns on his hazard lights and unlocks the doors.

Sesshomaru exits the vehicle, pausing outside to button his jacket closed before proceeding into the restaurant.

The atmosphere is jovial. Dozens of people are crowded around the bar. The main source of noise comes from the tables lined up on the other side. He recognizes the faces of his employees. Many are flushed from the alcohol. Green and brown bottles line the tables in front of them. He wonders if Mr. Ueda mentioned the corporate spending limit when he made the reservation.

“Have another. It will make you feel better.”

Sesshomaru spots Kagome seated in the rear corner of Kinka. The woman across from her uncorks a new bottle. Even from the doorway, Sesshomaru can tell they are inebriated. The smell of shochu is overpowering. He can barely make out Kagome’s natural essence in the haze of liquor.

He glares at the table of women. They have her surrounded like a brood of protective hens with a baby chick. One is refilling Kagome’s shot glass, while the rest are cackling. The only one who appears even remotely sober is the young girl next to Kagome. She slides a glass of water in front of Kagome, effectively blocking her from taking another shot.

He watches the miko take a tentative sip. Once Kagome registers that it's water, she downs the glass.

Sesshomaru heads for their table. He does not know what caused her sudden lack in judgment but he will not allow it to affect her further. As he approaches, a hand slaps him on the back.

“Look who decided to leave his office and have some fun!”

He represses a growl. “Mr. Tsujitani.”

“Mr. Taisho,” he says in a mock formal tone. “I didn’t expect to see you here tonight.”

“You should have.”

“Sango— er, Ms. Kuwashima said you were going on a blind date.”

“She was misinformed,” Sesshomaru responds, ignoring Mr. Tsujitani’s slip. He is aware of the man’s infatuation with the HR Director. Every time the woman is anywhere near Mr. Tsujitani, the man’s behavior becomes worse than normal. It’s no wonder she slapped him.

As the VP goes on about how nice it is to see Sesshomaru at a work outing, he keeps his eyes on Kagome. The girl next to her has ordered another water. He makes a note to reward the junior employee with a raise. The others will be lucky if they receive a cost of living increase.

“There’s a seat next to me,” Mr. Tsujitani offers.

“I will sit there,” Sesshomaru informs him, watching one of the hens rise.

He leaves the Vice President stammering. Crossing the room takes less than four full-length strides. With each one, the topic of their conversation becomes more apparent.

“He can kill me any time if you know what I mean,” another remarks, winking.

The whole table erupts with laughter except Kagome and her young friend. The latter shifts uncomfortably but doesn’t say anything. It’s Kagome who startles everyone by slamming her shot glass down.

“He isn’t a commodity! He’s a person,” she snaps. “Sort of.” The last part is only audible to him. She mumbles it under her breath after finishing a second cup of water.

“Oh, come on, Ms. Higurashi!” the woman with the shochu bottle tries again. “You can’t tell us you’ve never thought of Mr. Taisho that way.”

“Not when he looks the way he does,” another one agrees.

“So what if I have? That doesn’t mean it was right. How would you feel if your coworkers fantasized about you?” Kagome retorts. “Wouldn’t you be mad or, at the very least, uncomfortable around them?”

The admonished women fall quiet. Kagome shakes her head.

“Don’t you think Mr. Taisho has enough to worry about? He isn’t just in charge of his family’s company. He’s protecting their legacy. He doesn’t need to concern himself with us. He has more important matters to deal with.”

“Yeah,” a man next to them snorts, “like Ms. Naraku and Ms. Yajima.”

“What?” the ladies cry.

Instantly, the fire goes out of Kagome. While her coworkers rally together under this new piece of gossip, she shrinks back down into her seat.

“I overheard that assistant of his talking. Mr. Taisho’s father has been setting him up on blind dates with women from elite families that’s why he couldn’t make it this evening,” the man explains.

Sesshomaru steps forward. The time has come to put an end to this slander.

“You shouldn’t believe everything you hear.”

The bar chatter drops from a roar to a dull murmur. Every Taisho Enterprise employee’s attention is centered on him, including Kagome’s. She gazes up at him from her seat. Like the others, her face is flushed, however, there are also traces of redness around her eyes. She’s been crying. Sesshomaru waited too long to intervene. He will delay this no longer.

“Tonight, you are my only priority.”

The man who spoke of his father’s plans is pale as he bows. “Thank you, Mr. Taisho.”

He ignores the man’s attempts to make up for his allegations and addresses the group. “I apologize for my tardiness. My last meeting ran longer than intended. I appreciate you all making the time to be here this evening. Thank you for your hard work.”

There is a round of overlapping responses from everyone. Sesshomaru does not listen to their words. He is focused on the one employee not looking at him.

“May I sit here?” he asks, indicating the chair next to Kagome.

“Please do,” her female colleagues reply eagerly.

Sesshomaru slides into the seat. His skin tingles at the proximity to Kagome’s reiki. Even after the merge, their energy signatures continue to react to each other.

“I hope you didn’t stand up your date for us, Mr. Taisho,” one of the women says.

“The only plans I had for this evening were to be here,” he responds evenly.

“But isn’t it true you were seen with Ms. Naraku a few weeks ago?”

Next to him, Kagome begins to cough. The junior associate aside her, pats her back and hands her a napkin.

“Actually, she turned me down,” Sesshomaru reveals.

The women gasp. “That can’t be true!”

“Multiple times, in fact.” He turns to Kagome. “Isn’t that right, Ms. Higurashi?”

Her coworkers stare at her. “You were there when it happened?”

“Uh…um, yes,” she admits, cheeks darkening.

“What were you doing there?”

“Were you on a date too?”

“How do you know Ms. Naraku?”

She chooses to answer the easiest of their questions. “Kagura is my roommate. We’ve been friends since our school days.”

“So it is true!”

“It is,” Kagome validates. 

The entertains the women who begin discussing men they’ve rejected. They each tell their tales and then proceed with trying to prove which one of them has the worst first date story in the group. The liquor loosens their tongues. It appears, for the time being at least, their attention has been diverted from Sesshomaru.

He inclines his head toward Kagome. “Would you care to get some air?”

She glances around the room. “Now?”

Sesshomaru completes a cursory scan. There are a handful of team members who are struggling to remain conscious. Others are engrossed in their conversations. Mr. Takumi has just slipped out to use the washroom. No one will miss them.

“I prefer to converse without an audience,” he says, eyeing the drunken women across the table.

“Okay.”

Sesshomaru extracts himself from the table. As anticipated, several people watch him. He pulls out his phone and pretends to take a call as he exits the restaurant.

Outside, the night air is crisp. The temperature has dropped since sunset. The chill of winter lingers in the early spring weather. Sesshomaru shrugs off his coat and moves away from the entrance to wait for Kagome.

It takes a few minutes for her to emerge. No sooner has she stepped outside, than he is wrapping the wool around her. She looks at him, startled. “Thank you.” 

“Where would you like to go?” 

“The park is fine,” she says. 

Sesshomaru follows her gaze to the lot across the street. He places his hand on her lower back, gently guiding her along the crosswalk. They stroll along a winding path in the park. Once they are far enough along that they can no longer see the lights of Kinka, Kagome finds a bench to plop down on. 

Her expression is blank. It unsettles him. Sesshomaru has never seen her this way. Kagome has always been passionate about things. When she’s happy, there is delight in her eyes and free-flowing laughter. If someone angers her, Kagome doesn’t hold back her rage. She makes certain that the person who incited her fury knows it. Sesshomaru would prefer hostility to this emptiness. He blames the alcohol. 

“Why did you allow yourself to become intoxicated?” he inquires, standing in front of her. 

Kagome’s face scrunches up. “Why do you care?”

He may have overestimated the water’s effect on her. Sesshomaru won’t be able to have a meaningful conversation with Kagome in this state. He runs a hand through his hair. Perhaps tomorrow would be better. If he picks her up on the way to work, they will have ample time to speak before meeting with Ms. Kuwashima.

She smacks him. “Hey, I’m talking to you.”

“So you are.”

Her eyebrows pinch together. Sesshomaru catches her wrist before she can swat him a second time. She huffs and rips free from his grasp. Crossing her arms in front of her, she grumbles, “It’s not fair.”

“What is not fair?”

“You! You,” she waves her hand at him, “aren’t fair! I was fine before. I did my job, took care of things at the shrine, had my friends— life was good. Then you come along and now I’m like this. It’s not fair!”

Sesshomaru cannot follow her train of thought. He knows she finds him attractive. Kagome admitted it. After yesterday, he believed they moved past their initial disagreements and misunderstandings. What happened to make her so displeased?

“I know you said I wouldn’t hear from you last night but I thought you’d call or at least text. I was worried all night. I just had this bad feeling. So I didn’t sleep. Then I went to work and I couldn’t concentrate. I wasn’t sure what to say to you when you showed up tonight. Then, I ran into Hojo and he told me that you’re seeing Yura Yajima. Do you know how that made me feel?”

His first instinct is to track down and dismember Mr. Ueda. The impulse is quickly brushed aside when he scents salt in the air. He spots the tears brimming in Kagome’s eyes. Mr. Ueda isn’t to blame. He is. 

“You said you didn’t want to date those women. You said you didn’t want a mate. Was that all a lie?”

Sesshomaru reaches for her. “Come here.”

She shifts away from him. “No.”

“Kagome—.”

“Answer me!”

He sighs. This is not how he planned on having this conversation. Sesshomaru wanted to be in a secluded place or at least somewhere that offered them sufficient privacy. A park bench is hardly appropriate for what he is about to confess.

Kneeling, Sesshomaru positions himself as close to her as possible. “No, it was not a lie. As I stated in the restaurant, you are my sole priority for this evening.” He carefully untwines her arms and laces his fingers through hers. “You, Kagome Higurashi, are the only woman I wish to court.”

Her lower lip trembles. “Really?”

“Yes,” Sesshomaru confirms, wiping away a rouge tear with his thumb. “I understand if you are skeptical of my motives. Given our history, you have every right to be. I came here tonight with the intention of asking if you would allow me to court you with mating in mind.”

She blinks, her vision clearing. The light that he has missed returns to her eyes. “For real? No contracts or ruses this time?”

“No deals. No fabrications.”

“You like me?”

“I do,” he responds, grinning as he recognizes that those two words could be an indicator of what lies ahead for them. “What is your answer?”

“Yes!” Kagome springs forward, throwing her arms around him. If it was not for his superior reflexes, she may have succeeded in knocking him over. Snaking an arm around her waist, Sesshomaru hoists them both up so they are standing in the middle of the walkway. Just as swiftly as she pounces, Kagome retreats. She presents her hand to him with the pinky finger jutted out. “Promise this is real?”

“I swear it,” Sesshomaru responds.

Beaming, Kagome loops her pinky finger through his. “Good, because you’re mine now. No takebacks!”

“No takebacks,” Sesshomaru confirms. 

Chapter Text

Ugh, my head…

Kagome groans and rolls onto her side. There is a pounding in her head loud enough to rival the drum beat of the shrine rituals. She plants her face into her pillow. Kagome knew she shouldn’t have accepted those shochu shots. Drinking wasn’t going to solve her problems. All it did was leave her feeling worse than the day before, and not just because of the hangover. The vivid dream she had of Sesshomaru was cruel. 

She flops onto her back. Kagome stares up at the ceiling, wishing he would have come to the team outing last night. Even if he had, Kagome doubts he would have sat next to her or asked her to join him outside. It would have been too risky.

Not that it matters now. Her day kicks off with a one-on-one meeting with the Director of HR. Kagome suspects she’ll be asked to spend the day transferring her duties to one of her members. Kagome won’t need to set an alarm for Monday morning. She’ll be able to sleep in as long as she wants. It’s the one upside to being unemployed.

Tossing her bedding off, Kagome decides there is nothing sadder than staying at home on a Friday night to work on her resume. At least Kagura will be too busy with Arisu to extend a pity invite. Kagome hates being a burden to her friends, especially when they’ve been so thoughtful.

Kagome recognizes the small aluminum can on her bedside table. Wrapped in gold, the popular hangover cure sits next to a large glass of water. Kagome unscrews the top of the flavored tonic. She holds her nose as she downs the contents. The liquid is sweet and thick. It reminds her of the cough medicine Mama made her take as a child. Kagome chugs her glass of water to wash the nasty taste away. She decides to pick up some sweets on the way home to thank Kagura.

When her feet touch down on the floor, Kagome no longer feels nauseous. She moves freely around her room without the fear of being sick. Unfortunately, her head continues to pound. Kagome hopes that the tonic will be in full effect by the time she arrives at the office. She shuffles into the bathroom to get ready.

Mio convinced her to come to the team outing. Kagome was about to use Ando’s idea and call off sick. It was their junior coworker who changed her mind. Being the newest member of the team, Mio hadn’t met everyone in the department yet. Mr. Takumi was to blame for that. During her first week, he lost his temper and ordered Kagome to train her. As a result, the only person Mio regularly spoke to was Kagome. It made sense she didn’t feel comfortable attending the team outing alone.

Kagome hadn’t planned on staying long. Once Mio met some of their coworkers, she figured the trainee would be fine on her own. However, Kagome hadn’t counted on the fact that her team members' interest in gossip extended to the details of her personal life. 

Mio wasn’t the only one in the office who noticed her sudden change in demeanor. Kagome’s bubbly personality is well-known in the department. Mio thinks people come to her because of her compassion. In truth, Kagome’s peers seek her out so they don’t have to speak with Mr. Takumi. His rude behavior isn’t directed solely at her. He acts that way towards everyone— everyone who isn’t on the executive staff. Kagome is the only one who has ever stood up to him. Her single act of defiance earned her respect within Client Relations. She is their shadow boss.

Being the unofficial leader of the team didn’t come with any perks. It was more work and more stress. The latter included her coworkers’ discretion. No sooner had she sat down inside the izakaya, than the women in her department clustered around her.

They thought her boyfriend had broken up with her. Kagome couldn’t tell them the truth. Even if she could, the reality was far worse than what they suspected was wrong. How could she admit that Sesshomaru wasn’t her boyfriend? The only thing worse would be confessing that she’d never had one before. Kagome let them labor under a lie. After all, the most important part was true. She was suffering from a broken heart.

And the remedy? Shochu.

She reaches for her toothbrush, eager to rid her mouth of the taste. The memory of those shots makes her grimace. Kagome can’t believe she allowed herself to succumb to peer pressure. It’s bad enough that she let herself fall for her CEO. She shouldn’t have added getting drunk at a team outing to her list of recent mistakes.

It was a good thing she left early.

Kagome studies her reflection in the bathroom mirror. Wait, did I leave early? She places her hands on the sink, leaning over the basin as she tries to remember. Kagome recalls drinking with her colleagues. Mio was the one to suggest offsetting their first round with a glass of water. Kagome had finished it right before the second round of shots was poured. That was when the topic of conversation shifted from appropriate to inappropriate.

Her knuckles turn white as she grips the sides of the sink. The way those women spoke about Sesshomaru was disgusting. If Kagome heard one of her coworkers talking about her in those terms, she’d file a complaint with HR. Being attractive isn’t a crime. It doesn’t grant people the license to sexualize others. Kagome is grateful Sesshomaru wasn’t in attendance. No one should feel uncomfortable at work, including the CEO.

As she finishes brushing her teeth, Kagome tries to recall other details from the evening. Everything after her angry outburst is hazy. She sees flashes of things— excusing herself to go outside for some fresh air, leaning against the cab window, kicking off her shoes at the doorway. Each scene is brief and offers no context about what occurred in between. Her memory is like a roll of film that has been over-edited.

How did I get home last night?

She finishes freshening up and returns to her room. There is no cash missing from her wallet. If Kagome took a cab, she must have split it with someone. Weird, she thinks. No one in the department lives in her neighborhood.

Kagome slings her purse over her shoulder. She’ll ask Mio about it when she gets to the office. Maybe the younger woman offered to see her home. Considering Kagome’s low tolerance, it would make sense. Mio was probably worried about her safety.

Convinced with this logical explanation, Kagome heads into the kitchen to prepare her lunch. She’s too busy trying to piece together her fractured memory to notice that her roommate is waiting for her.

“Morning.”

Kagome jolts at the sound of her voice. “Kagura.” Her friend stares across the kitchen counter, annoyance etched onto her face. “Did you have to wake up early?”

“I never went to bed.”

“Sorry,” Kagome apologizes, maneuvering around her to open the fridge. “My team members insisted that I go out with them last night. Thank you for taking care of me. That tonic was nasty but it did the trick. My headache is almost completely gone.”

Kagura’s eyebrows knit together. “What are you talking about?”

“The glass of water and bottle of Ukon no Chikara,” she answers. “That wasn’t you?”

“No. By the time I got home, you were already passed out in bed.”

“But if you didn’t put them there then who did?”

Kagura crosses her arms over her chest. “It’s obvious, isn’t it?”

Again, Kagome tries to recall how she got home and, more importantly, who she was with. She assumed it was Mio. Her coworker is kind but it’s unlikely Mio would pay for a cab ride and go out of her way to buy the hangover elixir. That level of dedication is reserved for close friends like Kagura. But if Kagome’s roommate didn’t help her, who did?

“I can’t remember,” Kagome admits. “I know I went out with my team. I think I took a cab home. I left my shoes there,” she points to their apartment door, “and then….nothing.”

Kagura’s face relaxes. “Here.” She reaches around Kagome to give her another glass of water. “You need to hydrate. It will help.”

“Thanks.”

As Kagome sips the water, she’s aware of Kagura’s gaze. Her friend’s annoyance is redirected. Kagome sees concern in her eyes. There is a hint of something else as well— a territorial urge that she doesn’t understand.

“Do you remember leaving with anyone?” Kagura asks.

Kagome shakes her head. “The only thing I recall is walking out by myself. I needed some fresh air.”

Kagura’s gaze shifts to the living room table. Kagome gasps. Seated in the middle is an impressive bouquet of red and white roses. The tapered glass vase reveals the long stems. Propped up against the vase is a cream-colored envelope sealed with red wax.

“Those are beautiful. Are they from Arisu?”

“Read the card.”

She scrunches up her nose, confused. “Huh? Why?”

“Just do it.”

Kagome doesn’t understand Kagura’s odd behavior. She wonders if something happened with Arisu. Did the two of them have an argument? Is that why Kagura has been up all night? Or is it worse than that? Is it a yokai custom to send an expensive bouquet of flowers to mark the end of a relationship?

Nervously, Kagome picks up the card. She frowns at the unopened seal. Is Kagura too afraid to read it herself? Kagome runs her thumb between the flap of the envelope and the base, breaking the wax. A matching crimson card is tucked inside. She pulls it out and flips it open. In the center, two words are scrawled in perfect penmanship.

No takebacks.

Kagome drops the card and stumbles backward. “T-That was real?” She starts to feel dizzy again. It can’t be. That was a dream. It was only a dream, right? Kagome glances down, seeing the card has fallen open face up. Her own words mock her. She turns to Kagura. “I-I thought it was a dream.”

Kagura snorts. “Must have not made it very memorable for you then.”

“It’s not like that,” she says, kneeling to retrieve the card. She rereads it several times. Her heart flutters in her chest. He did come to the outing. He sat next to her and walked with her in the park and asked her to be with him. Kagome’s cheeks heat up. None of that was a sleep-deprived fantasy. It was real. Sesshomaru’s feelings for her are real.

He wrote her this note. He sent these flowers. And he was the one…

“…who brought me home last night.”

“That explains the smell,” Kagura remarks, coming over to stand next to her.

“Smell?” 

“His stench is all over our apartment,” her roommate clarifies. Her nostrils flare in disgust. “And you. Do you want to explain why that is, Kagome?”

“Right…so about that,” Kagome begins, unable to meet Kagura’s knowing gaze. “We’re friends.”

“Friends?” 

“Allies,” she rephrases quickly.

“Kagome.” Kagura sighs. “I thought you told him that you wouldn’t go along with the ruse.”

“I did! But…”

Kagura arches a brow. “But?”

“He figured out who I was. We made a bet to see who was more powerful and fought it out on the roof. I thought I had him beat, but it ended in a tie. So…,” she trails off with a shrug.

“You did what?”

Kagome explains the strange phenomenon that occurred on the roof. She goes on to tell Kagura about Bokuseno’s lab, including how Sesshomaru has been using it as a sanctuary for yokai who aren’t able to take humanoid forms.

She skims over the part where Sesshomaru also uses the lab as a holding cell for rogue yokai. Kagome wants to stress his compassion, not incite any action on Kagura’s part. Knowing her friend, Kagura won’t remain idle if she perceives a threat. She may not be able to confront her father head-on, but there’s nothing holding her back from attacking a few rogue yokai. Thankfully, the details Kagome shares seem to placate her roommate. 

At least momentarily.

“Hold on.” Kagura’s hand comes up. “What does that even mean? Reiki and yoki— they don’t mix.”

“Apparently, they do.” Kagome spreads her palm open, revealing her mark.

Kagura grabs her with both hands. She twists Kagome’s palm in the light. “What is this?”

“When our powers merged, we were connected to each other and the physical form. This mark appeared where Sesshomaru and I were joined.”

“How is this possible?” Kagura asks.

Kagome shrugs. “I don’t know. That’s what we’re trying to find out. Sesshomaru thought Bokuseno would know something but he’s never seen anything like this.”

“Because it’s impossible,” Kagura responds. “What you two did— a power merge or whatever you call it —is not supposed to happen.”

“Just like yokai and mikos aren’t supposed to be best friends?” Kagome counters.

Kagura releases her hand. “Yeah,” she says with a soft laugh. She presses her fingertips to her forehead.

Kagome can tell she’s overwhelmed. It’s a lot to take in, especially so early in the morning. She understands why Kagura is struggling with this new information. Kagome still can’t believe it. She planned on telling Kagura about the bond she shares with Sesshomaru but there hasn’t been time. Between the events of that night, the team outing, and her regular work schedule, Kagome hasn’t seen her roommate. She thought they’d have time to catch up over the weekend. 

“Damnit,” Kagura hisses. “This never would have happened if I kept my mouth shut. I shouldn’t have told him to get to know you.”

Kagome stares at her. “You met Sesshomaru?”

“After he figured out that you weren’t me, he came to my office. He barged in like he owned the place, caused a huge scene, and scared Kohaku half to death. I was angry. I wasn’t thinking clearly. I told him if he wanted to punish you just to send you my way.” She rolls her eyes. “Working for my father would be punishment enough. He didn’t seem to like that. Then I taunted him. I suggested that he get to know you— the real you —before passing judgment. I didn’t expect him to follow through on it,” Kagura snaps.

“When was this?” Kagome asks.

“The day after your dinner at Sezanne.”

“That was weeks ago!” Kagome feels dizzy again. This time the sensation isn’t caused by euphoria but by shock. He knew. Before she confessed, Sesshomaru was aware of what she had done. No wonder he didn’t shout at her.

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you,” Kagura apologizes. “I was trying to protect you. I thought that arrogant bastard was like my father. I figured he’d try to coerce you into some devious plan.”

Didn’t he, though? By the time Kagome had come clean, Sesshomaru already knew the truth. He knew who she was. Why hadn’t he told her? Why had he been so insistent on dating her? Was he motivated because of his father or was Kagura right? Was it because of her power?

Kagome looks at the vase of roses, then at the mark on her palm. She doesn’t want to doubt Sesshomaru’s intentions. If all he needed was a stand-in for his father, Ms. Yajima would be a perfect choice. As a fellow yokai and an actress, she was more than capable of tricking Touga Taisho. Yet, Sesshomaru had come to the team outing. He’d taken a risk by coming to see her. And then there was the matter of their moonlit stroll. Kagome hopes no one saw them leave together.

So much has happened in such a short amount of time. She doesn’t know how to feel or what to believe. Kagome doesn’t want to get caught up in another situation where she doesn’t realize she’s in too deep until it’s too late. Unfortunately, it appears that she already has. Regardless of Sesshomaru’s intentions, her feelings are real. She wishes they weren’t. At least then she’d be able to analyze these events with clarity.  

The alert chime on her phone goes off. Kagome grabs it out of her bag to see a new text message

My driver is waiting out front. See you soon.

Her heart stutters. This morning hasn’t just been a string of shocking revelations for Kagura, Kagome has also been on an emotional rollercoaster. She doesn’t know what to think. What Kagome does know is that she needs to speak to Sesshomaru. That’s the only way to move forward. 

“I have to go,” she says.

Kagura nods. “Want to order in tonight? We can grab some karaage from our favorite place,” she offers.

Kagome starts to agree until she remembers her plans to meet up with Sesshomaru. “I can’t tonight. Rain check?”

“Sure.”

Kagome adjusts her bag over her shoulder and goes to the entryway to slip on her shoes.

As she opens the door to leave, Kagura calls over to her. “Hey, if things don’t work out, Arisu has a son who is still unmated. I could ask her to set you two up.”

“Yeah, maybe.”

Kagura gives her a hopeful smile. Kagome waves and leaves.

She worries on her bottom lip the entire ride down to the lobby. Kagome thought last night was a dream. Sesshomaru had said everything she wanted to hear. In the harsh light of morning— and the criticism of her best friend —Kagome doesn’t know which is worse. As disappointing as it would be to find out his confession was a dream, Kagome would be devastated to learn that he’d only done it with ulterior motives.

Emotional manipulation is something Kagura’s father would resort to. Onigumo Naraku does not care for the needs of others. His only concern is himself. That’s not Sesshomaru. He may be a strategist but he doesn’t hide his ambitions. His approach is straightforward forward as evidenced by his blunt proposal the first time they met. If Sesshomaru was planning on leveraging her abilities, he would have told her. He is not a puppet master like Naraku. He prefers to battle his opponents head-on.

“Good morning, Ms. Higurashi.”

Kagome blinks, finding herself outside the apartment complex. Sesshomaru’s driver, Mr. Ogata, stands on the sidewalk, holding the rear passenger door open for her.

“Oh, yes, good morning,” she greets him, hurrying over. “I hope I didn’t make you wait too long.”

He smiles. “Please don’t concern yourself. My objective is to deliver you safely to Taisho Enterprises.”

“Thank you,” Kagome responds, ducking to enter the car.

This is her first time meeting Mr. Ogata. Though Sesshomaru shared how he met the dragon yokai and the history of his service, Kagome hasn’t had the opportunity to speak to him. While he is calm and collected like Sesshomaru, Mr. Ogata appears open and friendly. He appears far more approachable than his employer. Kagome is interested to learn more about him.

“I appreciate you picking me up,” she says as they pull away from the curb.

“I am happy to be of assistance, Ms. Higurashi.”

“Oh, you don’t have to call me that. Please feel free to call me Kagome.”

Mr. Ogata glances at her through the rearview mirror. “That wouldn’t be appropriate, miss. Mr. Taisho gave me clear instructions.”

“Sesshomaru did?”

The driver nods.

“If you don’t mind me asking, Mr. Ogata, long have you known Sesshomaru?”

“Over five hundred years,” he answers.

“And he’s treated you well?”

“Very well, miss. Based on your initial encounters with him, I understand your reservations, but as he demonstrated last night, Mr. Taisho is an incredibly loyal companion.”

Kagome tilts her head. “Last night?”

“When he escorted you home from Kinka,” Mr. Ogata explains.

Embarrassed, Kagome covers her face with both hands. “It wasn’t a taxi! It was you!”

“Yes, miss. Mr. Taisho was quite concerned. We stopped at three convenience stores on our way to your apartment to find the right elixir. I am glad to see his instincts were correct.”

She bows forward. “I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to make you go out of your way.”

Mr. Ogata chuckles. “Please don’t apologize. It was quite entertaining to see him so worried. Mr. Taisho is not the type to get flustered easily.” 

Kagome lifts her face to stare at the driver. She can’t imagine Sesshomaru ever being flustered. He approaches every situation with confidence. Even when surprised, he manages to react in a calm and collected manner. She doubts her drunken state was enough to unhinge him. Unless…

“Did I say or do anything bad on the ride home last night?”

“You didn’t say much at all. You spent the majority of the ride asleep. You didn’t even notice the car stop. Mr. Taisho had to wake you when we arrived at your apartment complex,” Mr. Ogata explains.

She breathes a sigh of relief. Kagome wouldn’t be able to face Sesshomaru if she’d done something unforgivable like puke in his car.

“Although…there was a moment while Mr. Taisho was trying to help you get out of the car where you raised your voice at him.”

“I yelled at him?”

Mr. Ogata grins. “Quite forcefully, I might add.”

Kagome cringes. “About what?”

“You blamed Mr. Taisho for how your day turned out and demanded that it not count as your first day of dating.”

Her face blooms crimson. Kagome can’t believe she said that to Sesshomaru. Could she be more immature? What is this? High school? Kagome groans and slumps in her seat. She can’t imagine what he thinks of her.

“Are you alright, Ms. Higurashi? Are you feeling unwell?”

“No, I’m fine,” Kagome replies. Just wishing the ground would open up and swallow me whole.

Kagome has done her fair share of cringe-worthy things in her life but this one may be the worst. Not only did she embarrass herself in front of the person she likes, he also happens to be her boss! Kagome wouldn’t be surprised if Sesshomaru was rethinking his decision to be with her. She clearly isn’t as polished as the other women he’s been set up with. He’s probably hoping she forgot the whole thing.

So why send the roses? And that card. No take backs.

Kagome straightens up. The only other bouquet she’s ever received was from her family on graduation day. It was a nice gesture but it didn’t make her heart flutter the way Sesshomaru’s gift did.

She sighs, leaning against the headrest and gazing out the window. There’s so much she wants to know— why Sesshomaru never called, why he chose last night to confess, how long he stayed with her at the apartment, why he sent the flowers? The list goes on. But the most important question is why her? Out of all the candidates he had for a mate, why did he choose Kagome? She needs to know. She has to find time today to speak with Sesshomaru. The problem is getting him alone. How can she approach him without arising suspicion?

“Ms. Higurashi, we’ve arrived.”

Mr. Ogata’s announcement jars her from her thoughts. Kagome turns to the right. Through the window, she sees the front entrance of Taisho Enterprises. Dozens of employees are walking in. Some come off the metro line while others are storing their bikes. No one else has arrived courtesy of a private chauffeur.

Kagome gathers her things and slides across to exit the car. “Thank you, Mr. Ogata. Have a nice day!”

“You as well, miss.”

She loops around the front, mingling with the others climbing up the stairs from the metro. Everyone is too involved in their phones or personal thoughts to take notice of her. To them, Kagome is merely another body in the fray.

It isn’t until she reaches the fourth floor, that anyone greets her. There is a hush over the department, which is typical following a long night of drinking. Kagome spots several people nursing variations of the same tonic she drank. She understands why it is so popular. Her symptoms have vanished. Kagome is ready to take on the day.

And confront Sesshomaru.

“Kagome!”

“Good morning, Mio,” she greets the young woman. “Did you get home safe last night?”

“Yeah, but what happened to you? You said you were going out for some air then just disappeared.”

“Oh.” Kagome deadpans. “I…had too much to drink. I didn’t want to embarrass myself in front of the CEO.” To anyone watching her, Kagome appears normal. Inwardly, though, she’s flailing because the truth is she did embarrass herself in front of Sesshomaru.

“That makes sense,” Mio remarks. “And, hey, you made the right call. Things got weird after you left.”

“What do you mean?” Kagome asks.

Mio grabs her arm and leans in to whisper, “Mr. Inada showed up.”

“What? But he’s not a part of our team.”

“I know. Mr. Takumi seemed surprised but Mr. Inada claimed it was a coincidence so he suggested he stay.” Mio shivers. “He gives me the creeps.”

Kagome remembers Mr. Inada’s comment to her. It wasn’t a coincidence. He planned on being there last night. What she can’t figure out is why. What does Mr. Inada have to gain by crashing their team outing?

“Do you want to grab a tea downstairs?” Mio asks.

“I can’t. I have a meeting with Ms. Kuwashima in fifteen,” Kagome tells her. “Let me know when you’re taking lunch. I have to buy food at the cafe today since I forgot to pack mine.”

Mio’s eyes go wide. “But you never forget!”

“I wasn’t feeling myself this morning,” Kagome admits.

Mio grabs a spare tonic from inside the top drawer of her desk. She holds it out to Kagome. “Do you want one of these?”

“No, thank you. I already drank one earlier.”

“Smart. Most people forget to buy them ahead of time and have to get one on the way to work,” Mio says, looking around the office.

It’s easy to identify who had tonic at home and who waited to take it during their morning commute. Kagome is glad she falls into the former category. The latter appears to be dragging.

“I’ll see you at lunch,” Mio tells her. “Good luck at your meeting.”

Kagome logs into her workstation. She quickly scans her inbox to make sure there is nothing time-sensitive waiting for her review. With each minute that ticks by, her anxiety grows. It isn’t until five minutes to nine that she realizes why Mr. Inada came to the team outing.

He wanted proof. 

She rushes to the conference room Ms. Kuwashima reserved, hoping to beat him there. If Kagome can speak to the Director of HR before Mr. Inada arrives, there is a chance she can explain the situation. She flings open the door and bursts into the room.

“Good morning, Ms. Higurashi.”

Someone is already waiting for her inside. It’s not Mr. Inada as she expected.

It’s Sesshomaru.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

He watches the miko’s expression morph from determination to shock. If Sesshomaru had to select a feature he favored over all else, it would be her eyes. The depth of emotion they convey is more telling than any change in her scent.

“Sesshomaru.” She breathes his name with such relief that he has to restrain himself from leaving his seat. Sesshomaru cannot embrace her while in the office. No matter how much he may want to.

It has only been a few short hours since Sesshomaru saw Kagome yet he feels her relief mirrored within himself. When they arrived at the apartment, he noted that her roommate was not home. There was no one to tend to her needs or care for her if she was ill. Sesshomaru decided to stay until Ms. Naraku returned. He told himself it was because of the alcohol Kagome consumed. The truth of the matter was that he could not pry himself away from her slumbering form. He spent the night at her bedside, listening to the soft sounds of her breathing.

In the early hours of the morning, Mr. Ogata texted him with news of Ms. Naraku’s arrival. Knowing she would not appreciate his presence in her home, Sesshomaru left. He has been counting down the minutes until this meeting since then. 

“What are you doing here?” Kagome asks.

“Close the door,” he reminds her.

Instantly, she whips around to check if anyone overheard their informal conversation. The flow of the office is uninterrupted. Overall, his employees are diligent workers. Some appear singularly focused on their daily tasks. The fact that those people are the same ones who saw him arrive on this floor is not a coincidence.

Kagome shuts the conference room door, then rushes over to his side of the table. “What are you doing here?”

“I called for this meeting,” Sesshomaru answers.

Her eyebrows disappeared behind her bangs. “You! But why?”

“Because we’re dating.”

Kagome’s cheeks turned red as she shakes her head. “Ms. Kuwashima scheduled this on Wednesday morning. We weren’t dating then.”

Then. So she agrees they are dating now? Good.

“No? How would you describe our breakfast rendezvous?” he inquires, hiding a smirk.

“Well, we…um…,” she trails off.

“Is cooking a romantic meal together something you do with everyone?” Sesshomaru questions.

Kagome scoffs. “Romantic? We were at work!”

“A fair point. Next time, we will cook together at my home.”

Her eyes go wide and the color of her face darkens. “Next time?”

He nods. “We could prepare a meal together over the weekend. Since you requested that today be our first official day of dating, I thought you would prefer to go out to celebrate.”

“We don’t have to. I’m fine with cooking,” Kagome returns.

“I will inform Mr. Ogata to deliver the necessary ingredients to my residence.”

“No!” Her hands come up. “What I meant was that we need to talk. Kagura told me—.”

Sesshomaru stiffens but it is not the mention of Ms. Naraku that bothers him. It is the individual approaching the conference room. “Ms. Kuwashima is coming,” he announces, interrupting Kagome.

She glances at the door and then hurries to the opposite side of the table to take a seat. Kagome has just settled in when the door opens.

“Good morning,” Ms. Kuwashima greets them. “Thank you for both arriving on time.”

“I appreciate your flexibility in scheduling this meeting,” Sesshomaru responds.

“Of course, Mr. Taisho.” Ms. Kuwashima bows her head. “I’ve arranged the paperwork you requested,” she says, opening up a Manila envelope.  She stands at the head of the table and lays out two copies of a contract. Ms. Kuwashima places one in front of him and the second in front of Kagome. “I need each of you to read through this document thoroughly. Once you have, if you agree with the terms, you may sign here.” Ms. Kuwashima taps the signature line on the miko’s copy.

Kagome frowns as she scans the opening clause of the contract. “I’m sorry. I’m not following. What is this?”

“An employee relationship contract,” Ms. Kuwashima answers. “This document confirms that your relationship is consensual, outlines appropriate behavior for both of you in regards to your working hours, and most importantly, protects against discrimination or retaliation.”

Sesshomaru does not hesitate to apply his signature. He is already familiar with the contract. The terms outlined within the document are clearly defined. He has ensured that Kagome will be treated fairly by her supervisor and coworkers. Any threat to her job has been eliminated.

Yet he still scents fear.

“Ms. Kuwashima, can I speak to Mr. Taisho alone for a minute?”

The Director of Human Resources looks to him. Sesshomaru nods his head.

“I will be just outside the door,” Ms. Kuwashima tells them. Her eyes linger on Sesshomaru as she exits. Ms. Kuwashima has always been wary of him. Most of his employees are, but the way she stares at him now is different. She doubts that their relationship is consensual.

“Thank you, Ms. Kuwashima,” Sesshomaru bows.

Her gaze is cold as she exits the conference room.

He is not the only one who takes notice. “She doesn’t like you very much, does she?” Kagome asks.

“I believe her concern stems from your reaction. She likely believes I pressured you into this.”

Instantly, her hand is wrapping around his. “Sesshomaru, that’s not— I don’t feel pressured. I’m just surprised. This is all happening kind of fast, don’t you think?”

“Last night, you said you cared for me. I revealed that I wish to court you. We are aligned. What reason is there to delay?”

She releases his hand, her gaze dropping to the floor. “Kagura told me that you knew about who I was. You knew the truth before I confessed.”

“I did,” Sesshomaru confirms. He is unclear why this information is distressing her.

“Why did you let me believe that you didn’t know? Was it because you wanted to hold it over my head or was it because of this?” She holds up her plan, baring the mark on her palm.

He scents the tears brimming in her eyes before he sees them.

“Kagome.” Sesshomaru reaches for her. She stiffens and hunches in on herself. He freezes.

Sighing, he runs his hand through his hair. Why is it that whenever he attempts a romantic gesture, his plans are derailed? Last night, it was the woman who fed Kagome drinks. Today, it is her meddlesome roommate. He wonders if this is retribution for rejecting the idea of taking a mate in the past. If so, the universe has a cruel sense of humor.

“I met with Ms. Naraku to confirm my suspicion about your ruse,” Sesshomaru explains. “I assumed that meeting was what prompted you to seek me out and tell the truth.”

Her head lifts as her eyes go wide. “I went to your office to own up to my part in the whole thing. I had no idea that you already knew. Kagura just told me this morning.”

“She questions my intentions,” Sesshomaru surmises. “As do you.”

Kagome flinches. “I don’t want to. So much of our time together has been based on a lie. How can I know what’s real?”

“Ask.”

“Who? You?”

“You did last night,” Sesshomaru points out. Her brow furrows as her eyes shift out of focus. Suddenly, her apprehension becomes clear to him. “You don’t remember.”

She brings her hand to her forehead. “I thought it was a dream. To be honest, some parts are still hazy. It wasn’t until I read your card that I realized it wasn’t a dream.”

“Would you prefer if it had been a dream?”

“No!” she cries. “I wanted it to be real. It’s just that I don’t know how to do this.” Her hand waves at the space between them. “You’re the CEO of my company and a daiyokai and rich and a few weeks ago you didn’t even want to date someone, let alone court them!”

Despite her flustered state, Sesshomaru can see the tension leaving her stance. Her movements are more organic and less restrained. She’s pleased by his attentions.

This time when he reaches for her hand, she does not pull away. “Kagome, we are both at fault for the deception that took place between us. You were acting in service to a friend and I was fulfilling an obligation to my father. That is in the past. Since that night on the roof, I have been nothing but truthful with you. If there is anything you are uncertain of, you need only ask me. I vow to be honest.”  

She studies him for a moment, before squeezing his hand. “Last night, you told me that this is real. It isn’t payback or some kind of twisted game. You like me for me— the part that’s human, the part that’s a miko, and the part that beat you on the roof.”

“It was a draw.”

Kagome crosses her arms over her chest and tilts her chin up. “I guess we need a rematch.”

“I believe we have a standing arrangement for this evening,” Sesshomaru reminds her.

Recognition flashes across her face. Her arms drop to her sides. “It’s Friday.”

“Indeed.”

“You planned to ask me out.”

Sesshomaru nods. “This morning was the earliest opportunity for us to meet with Ms. Kuwashima. I wanted to speak with you before the team outing but my father’s impromptu dinner request altered my schedule.”

“Is that why you risked seeing me at Kinka last night?” she asks.

“If it was a risk, it was well worth it.”

“Sesshomaru, someone could have seen us!”

“Which is why I wanted our relationship documented by Ms. Kuwashima. This document will protect you,” he informs her.

“What about you? Isn’t this dangerous for you? You’re the CEO of Taisho Enterprises. What if someone finds out and questions your integrity?”

This woman never fails to amaze him. Others would be concerned about their livelihood or how to manipulate the contract to gain something. Kagome is worried about how their relationship may damage his reputation. Her compassion is truly unparalleled.

“I have been in contention with others since I was born. If those who oppose me wish to leverage this as a weakness, I will use it as an opportunity to prove how short-sighted they are.”

Her lips tilt up. “You seem pretty sure of yourself.”

“The only one whose questions concern me is you,” he says. “So if there is something weighing on your mind, tell me.” 

“What’s going on between you and Ms. Yajima?”

He scowls. Sesshomaru thought he had put a stop to those rumors. It appears the alcohol didn’t dull her memory of the wagging tongues in the izakaya. “I have never met with Ms. Yajima. I sent Mr. Ueda to meet with her in my place. As I said before, you were my only priority last night.”

She gapes at him. “You sent Hojo on a date for you?”

“Ms. Naraku sent you on a date for her,” he retorts.

His point squashes Kagome’s indignation. “Fair enough,” she replies. “But why didn’t you reach out to me after dinner with your dad? I thought you’d call or at least text.”

Sesshomaru frowns. This is the one matter he does not want to discuss. Explaining his reaction to Touga requires sharing his father’s ultimatum with Kagome. Sesshomaru does not want to lose her, nor does he want her to feel obligated to remain with him. He wishes he would have asked Kagome about courting her before that disastrous evening.

“Wednesday morning, you helped me come to a realization about my life— namely about my relationship with my father. That evening, I attempted to confront him about my feelings. However, he was uninterested in listening. I was frustrated and required time to myself. I reverted to my true form and went to the mountains.”

“I guess that means no cell service,” Kagome teases gently.

“I apologize I did not contact you sooner.”

She places her hand on his shoulder. “You don’t have to apologize. I’m sorry your dad didn’t hear you out but I’m glad you took time for yourself. Do you want to talk about it?”

“I do,” he responds. “I want to tell you what he and I discussed and why it aggravated me.”

Kagome raises her hand to his cheek. “Take your time. When you’re ready, I’ll be here to listen.”

“I want you to understand that it does not affect my feelings for you or my choice to court you. I had already decided that.”

“I know,” she says, smiling. “Otherwise, Ms. Kuwashima wouldn’t be waiting outside.”

Sesshomaru’s attention snaps to the conference room door. He has been so focused on Kagome he forgot about the Director of HR. “Do you have any other questions?” 

Kagome shakes her head. “No, let’s make this official.” 

He is overcome with relief. Glad that she’s satisfied, Sesshomaru crosses the room and opens the door. “Ms. Kuwashima, you can come back in now. We’re ready to proceed”

Chapter Text

Kagome can’t focus. She’s filled with this warm, albeit jittery, burst of energy. Even if Kagome ran the entire way home, she doubts the feeling would go away. It’s full and warm. The sensation isn’t powerful like her reiki is but she recognizes its importance. She understands how monumental this step forward is. Because she isn’t taking it alone.

A laugh bubbles up from her belly, surprising Kagome and everyone in her vicinity.

“Sorry,” she apologizes quickly.

A few people give her wary glances, others ignore her completely. Mio doesn’t fall into either category. The junior associate shoves away from her desk and walks over to Kagome with a folder.

“You’re in a good mood,” she observes. “I’ve never seen you smile like that before.”

“It’s a good day,” Kagome replies.

As much as she wants to tell Mio the truth, Kagome doesn’t need anyone in the department to uncover her dating life. She and Sesshomaru have an agreement with HR, not the rest of the staff. It’s none of their business, Kagome thinks.

Ms. Kuwashima advised them to keep a low profile. Though the contract protects them from discrimination and retaliation, it won’t stop people from making snide remarks or unfair assumptions. Kagome doesn’t want her coworkers to think Sesshomaru used his authority to coerce her or, even worse, she seduced him for a promotion. That kind of scrutiny is hard to ignore.

“Wow, those tonics really do work miracles! You’re a completely different person than when you arrived this morning,” Mio observes. “Are we still on for lunch?”

“Yes,” Kagome confirms.

“Great. I’m going to wrap up my last report then we can head to the cafe.”

Mio returns to her desk. A second later, she’s typing away. It’s nice to have a friend in the office. She decides to start setting aside some money for her weekly lunch with Mio. One a week is manageable. She’ll consider it an end-of-the-week treat. Kagome smiles again. It really is a good day.

“You look chipper this morning, Higurashi.”

Kagome freezes. Of course. She should have expected a visit from him. “Mr. Inada.” She bows her head. “Good morning.”

“I didn’t see you at Kinka last night. It won’t bode well for your career if you continue to pick fights with superiors and be anti-social.”

She bites her tongue to keep from lashing out. Kagome has dealt with Mr. Inada long enough to know when he is baiting her. She doesn’t know what he intended last night but it’s evident he’s upset about the missed opportunity.

“I didn’t know you transitioned into Client Relations, Mr. Inada. I’ll be sure to add you to the team distribution list.”

He frowns. “I was passing by.”

“What a coincidence,” Kagome responds evenly.

“Your hostile attitude will get you fired one day, Higurashi. Mark my words.”

Her frustration mounts. Mr. Inada is purposely trying to provoke her, which means her manager or another executive-level employee is nearby. From her seated position, Kagome can’t spot anyone but her instincts have never been wrong.

“I apologize if you misunderstood. I was simply remarking on how fortuitous you were. Considering the number of bars in the surrounding area, you must be very lucky to have stumbled across the one selected for our team outing. I suggest you buy a lottery ticket on your way home this evening.” She shines with her best customer service smile and turns in her chair to resume working.

Kagome is the only one actively working. Everyone else is frozen, waiting for Mr. Inada’s reply. The lingering silence after her final word fills the department with tension. The absence of noise highlights the click-clack of her keyboard keys, making the sound more prominent. It sounds like shots firing. 

He may scare her coworkers but Kagome doesn’t fear him. She sees the cracks in his facade. Mr. Inada is desperate. He is reaching, hoping she will fall into his trap and purge herself.

She will not. 

Kagome’s fearlessness doesn’t come from this morning— and the signed contract with Sesshomaru— but she credits him for reminding her of her worth. 

Mr. Takumi’s constant dismissal made her second-guess herself. Though he declined her promotion requests, her manager was all too happy to give her additional responsibilities, namely his. Whenever she questioned him, Mr. Takumi told her to be grateful she worked at such a good company. He used her family’s situation against her. Those days have come to an end. Taisho Enterprises is a great company but Kagome knows her experience is equally great. If she left, Mr. Takumi would be hurt the most. 

So she lets Mr. Inada gawk at her. As the saying goes, he is stuck between a rock and a hard place. 

After another minute passes, he mutters indiscernibly and storms off. Her coworkers resume their daily tasks. Kagome’s fingers glide across the keyboard. A slow smile appears on her lips as she savors victory. 

Her work proceeds uninterrupted for the remainder of the day. Kagome focuses on gathering metrics for the next quarterly business review. It is yet another aspect of her job that Mr. Takumi has delegated. This quarter, however, she will not allow him to take credit for her presentation, deciding to change the report’s format. 

Mr. Takumi is notorious for not reviewing the content until the morning of the meeting. He won’t have enough time to familiarize himself with the new layout. He will need to make a choice— appear unprepared in front of the C-Suite or defer the presentation to Kagome. She’s counting on the latter. 

Kagome starts by aligning her department’s annual gleams with the company’s strategic initiatives. She highlights the value the Client Relations department brings to Taisho Enterprise by demonstrating how they support revenue streams. Seeing the impact in total yen achieved will keep the executive stakeholders engaged. 

Next, she moves on to how they are tracking against the last quarter. She analyzes their Net Promoter Score. The NPS is an indicator of the customer experience. The range is between -100 and 100. Companies achieving 50-70 are considered to be in good standing. Anything above 70 is exceptional. Currently, Taisho Enterprises is at 68. Kagome’s goal is to reach 72 before year-end. 

She’s reading a case study done on a similarly sized company in Korea when Mio approaches.

“Ready for lunch?”

Kagome blinks, startled to find it is after noon and most of her colleagues have abandoned their desks. 

“That can wait until later. You haven’t taken a break all morning,” Mio points out. 

“You’re right,” Kagome agrees. “Let’s go.”

Together, they enter the elevator and descend to the ground floor. The main level is lively. People pass through the lobby on their way to grab a meal elsewhere or take a stroll through the park. Across the entryway, dozens of company employees congregate in the cafe. 

“Is it always like this?” Kagome asks.

Mio nods. “With quarter-close coming up, everyone is busy. People start early in the morning and work into the night. Coming to the cafe is convenient, especially with the company’s employee discount.”

“When did that start?”

“A few weeks ago,” Mio answers. “Right around the same time that Mr. Taisho began scheduling outings with each of the teams.”

Kagome’s face flushes. Did Sesshomaru do this because of the criticism she shared at Sezanne? 

Mio places a hand on her shoulder. “Are you okay?”

“Fine.” Kagome wills her blush away. 

Up until now, she’s been too busy to process the events of this morning. Kagome has been operating on auto-pilot as if today is any other busy day. She threw herself into her work, reviewing KPIs and trend analysis. It was an efficient way to keep her focus off their relationship. Now she has to confront it. 

But before she does that, she needs to eat. 

Kagome scans the cafe. Faces, both recognizable and unknown, fill every available seat. Maybe she and Mio should have left sooner.

“Ms. Higurashi, over here.” 

She turns in the direction of the voice. Hojo is sitting in a circular booth in the rear of the restaurant. When Kagome spots him, he waves her over. 

“Here. You can have this table,” he offers, sliding across the cushioned seat. 

“Thanks, Mr.— Taisho!” Tucked in the back curve of the booth is their CEO. The instant her eyes meet his, Kagome is suspended between her coworker and high school friend. She didn’t expect to see him so soon and certainly not here. 

Remembering herself, Kagome hinges at her hips. “Good afternoon, sir.” 

“Good afternoon,” he returns, standing and buttoning his suit jacket. 

Immediately, Kagome’s face heats. Did his voice always sound deep and sensual? She presses her hands to her cheeks. What’s wrong with her? They’re at work. Nothing is going to happen in the middle of their corporate cafe!

“Ms. Higurashi?”

“Hmm?” 

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Mio asks. “I think you might have a fever. You’re flushed again.”

“It’s warm in here today, isn’t it?” She tries to brush off her colleague’s concern. Her attempt fails. 

“I find it cool.”

“I hope you’re not going through another spell of illness, Kag— eh, Ms. Higurashi. High school was bad enough,” Hojo remarks.

“It’s nothing like that,” Kagome reassures him. 

“If you’re unwell, perhaps you should end your day early and go home to rest,” Sesshomaru suggests. 

Kagome is so flustered, she can’t tell if he’s serious or teasing her. “I’ll feel better once I eat something,” she insists. 

Sesshomaru gestures to the booth. “Please.” 

Mio bows and sits down.

As Kagome moves to do the same, she feels fingertips drag along her lower back. “I’ll see you tonight. Meet me at our corner.” 

By the time she whips around to face him, he’s already halfway across the cafe, Hojo trailing obediently behind him. 

“Wow, Mr. Taisho is so generous,” Mio gushes. “I’ve never heard of a CEO giving up his seat for his subordinates. I heard he was rude but it seems to be a rumor.” 

“It is,” Kagome confirms, her gaze lingering on the subject of their conversation. 

She sees the corner of his mouth twitch and blushes. He’s listening!

“He’s not rude. He’s arrogant,” Kagome clarifies. That’s what you get for eavesdropping. 

Sesshomaru pauses to glance over his shoulder. She holds her breath, waiting for his reaction. He smirks then proceeds to the elevator bay. 

Kagome releases a nervous laugh. She’s sure he’ll make a point to talk about this later. The drive to his home is going to be interesting. 

Meet me at our corner. 

They have a spot. To everyone else, it is a simple intersection. To Kagome and Sesshomaru, it serves as a reminder of how their relationship changed. The corner is the first place he picked her up and where she confessed the truth about who she is. It will never be just a corner to Kagome, marked forever in her memory. 

It appears the same can be said for Sesshomaru. 

Kagome knows she should be worried about their interlude. Though it is unlikely anyone noticed his brief touch, his proximity definitely blurred the lines between the appropriate and inappropriate. Kagome is surprised that Hojo and Mio didn’t comment on it. 

She’s also too giddy to be mad. There are several things Kagome and Sesshomaru need to discuss, including how to handle their relationship while at work, but none of those conversations can tamper with her happiness. 

“Kagome?” 

A hand waves in front of her face, startling her. “Huh? Oh, sorry, Mio. What did you say?” 

Her co-worker frowns. “Mr. Taisho is right. Maybe you should take a half-day.”

“I promise, I’m fine. I just have a lot on my mind.”

“If you say so. Why don’t you go up and order food first? I will wait here so we don’t lose the table,” Mio offers. 

Kagome thanks her.

Again, Kagome wishes she could confide in Mio. The younger woman has been nothing but kind to her. It feels wrong to hide the truth. 

She wonders if Sesshomaru has told anyone. Hojo doesn’t appear to suspect anything. Bokuseno probably knows. Is Touga Taisho aware of their relationship? Is that what Sesshomaru alluded to earlier?

Kagome is in a daze as she maneuvers through the cafe. Her mind churns with questions. Sesshomaru’s parents have a complicated history with humans. She assumes Touga has a soft spot for humans, considering his wife is one. However, he may not have envisioned a human mate for his son. Maintaining the purity of the daiyokai bloodlines is important to many clan leaders. Kagome isn’t sure how he will side. And then there’s Sesshomaru’s mother, who lost her mate to a human woman. How can Kagome expect her to accept them? 

Sesshomaru’s parents aren’t the only ones Kagome has to worry about. Mama may be fine with whoever she wants to date but Gramps is a different story. He didn’t like the person she had a crush on in school. Her friend was a half-demon. If Gramps was vocal about his opinion then, she can’t imagine how he’ll react when he finds out that Kagome is seeing a full-blooded daiyokai. Kagome will have to consult with her mother before bringing Sesshomaru to the shrine. Maybe she can convince Gramps to take a holiday. 

Her brother is a wildcard. Souta didn’t initially like Kouga or his pack. Kagura is partially to blame for that. Kagome’s best friend doesn’t care for the wolf yokai— an opinion she made abundantly clear every time she finds herself in the pack’s presence. The only reason Kagura tolerates them is because Kagome asked for her understanding. Kagura agreed but her promise doesn’t extend to the members of Kagome’s family. 

Souta is young and impressionable. Kagura is as much a part of his life as the rest of the Higurashi family. He looks up to her, trusts her, and goes to her for advice when he’s too embarrassed to speak to Kagome. If Souta inquires about Sesshomaru, Kagome is certain Kagura will share how much she despises him. 

Kagome may have cleared one hurdle but pursuing a relationship with Sesshomaru is bound to have more. Their families’ approval is just one example. Managing the boundary between their work and personal lives has already proven to be a challenge. Another concern is the office rumor mill. No one will treat Kagome the same if news leaks about their involvement. 

Some will flock to her, attempting to earn her favor or bend her ear. Others will view her with disdain and discredit her achievements. Initially, a select few will remain impartial but, eventually, they will fall into one of those categories. 

Distractedly, Kagome scans the available meal selections. The ingredients look fresh and the prices are reasonable. After skipping breakfast, she is starving but her clouded mind prevents her from choosing. She wanders aimlessly around the cafe before returning to Mio. 

“You didn’t get anything!”

“I can’t decide,” Kagome replies. She hands Mio money. “I’ll get whatever you’re having”

“Okay,” Mio says, eyeing the bills. Her hunger must outweigh her concern because she strolls over to one of the options and places an order.

Kagome bows forward, resting her elbows on the table and catching her head in her hands. Her dull life is gone. In the past few weeks, she’s gone from stand-in to the real girlfriend of one of Tokyo’s most eligible bachelors.

She is aware admiration for Sesshomaru is not limited to her human coworkers. Kagura may be immune to his charms but there are plenty of other female yokai seeking to make a match. Kagome has to be careful. Once word reaches the yokai community about their relationship, there will be contenders. Brawling for a mate is still considered acceptable among certain clans.

When Onigumo first began setting Kagura up with eligible males, several female yokai took issue with it. One cornered her outside the office, another waited until she exited the metro station. None ever came to the apartment. If they had, Kagura wouldn’t have dealt with them alone. Kagome would have stepped in. Claws leave scars. Reiki doesn’t. In a fight, Kagome won’t have the last word. She’ll be the last word.

The fierce protectiveness she feels for Kagura is warranted. Kagome’s roommate has been her best friend for over a decade. What unnerves her is the fact she feels the same breadth of emotion for Sesshomaru.

Kagome knows she tends to become attached to people too quickly. It’s one of her biggest faults and the main reason why she didn’t want to get involved with anyone romantically. Falling in love isn’t the issue. Staying is. Being the only one committed to the relationship scares Kagome the most. She can calm down feral female yokai and manage disgruntled family members, but realizing she’s alone in the fight will end her.

Her mother’s sage advice echoes in her mind. You need a partner…someone who will always fight to stand beside you. Those words restore Kagome’s smile. Sesshomaru did this. Not only did he bring their relationship to light with HR, but he also took precautions to safeguard her employment. He invited her into his world by offering up his home as a secure place to train. For the first time in recent memory, Kagome is excited for the weekend.

“Eat up!”

She blinks and suddenly Mio is sliding a pair of loaded trays onto the table. Kagome spots an assortment of small dishes including rice, pickled vegetables, and soba.

“This lunch set is popular. I managed to grab the last two,” her coworker announces happily.  

“Thanks, Mio.”

“You need to eat well if you’re going to get better. You don’t want to be sick over the weekend.”

Kagome doesn’t. There is no doubt in her mind Sesshomaru will postpone their sparring session if he suspects her of being ill. She needs to stop worrying about the ‘what-if’s’ and pull herself together. Worrying won’t solve anything. Kagome needs to trust herself. And Sesshomaru.

Mind made up, she digs into her meal.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The day drags on at an agonizing pace. Each time Sesshomaru glances at his watch, it appears less than a minute has ticked by. Regardless, he checks again. Sesshomaru has over an hour of meetings to endure before he can leave to meet Kagome. He glares at the watch face wishing the intimidation tactic affected time the way it does his underlings.

Sesshomaru’s watch is not the only ticking clock. His father’s ultimatum weighs on him. He assured Kagome their conversation did not impact his decision to pursue her, which was true. However, he withheld the details of the conversation from her. Sesshomaru has yet to determine how to approach the topic with Kagome.

His mind is plagued by the unresolved topic. There is also the issue of Kagome’s roommate.

If one person has her ear, it is Kagura Naraku. Unfortunately, his brief encounter with the wind demoness garnered a less-than-positive impression. Sesshomaru may not care what Ms. Naraku thinks of him. The same cannot be said for Kagome.

Her room is decorated with mementos from their shared time. Shells from a summer vacation on Jeju Island, dried flowers from graduation, and a collection of stuffed animals won playing arcade games after school. Photos adorn the walls. If he lined them up chronologically, he’d have a complete timeline of their friendship from their early school days all the way through to this past New Year’s Day.

He cannot compete with the rich history Kagome has with Ms. Naraku. His best option is to remedy the situation before it gets worse. As long as they can be cordial to one another, the woman should not pose a risk to his relationship.

Though, when it comes to females, there are no guarantees. Sesshomaru learned that lesson from his mother.

Except for her recent text, which remains unread, she has been eerily quiet. Perhaps she is traveling abroad again. It wouldn’t be the first time she left without letting him know. His mother operates based on her whims. Though this behavior isn’t unusual, Sesshomaru senses her recent absence has less to do with trivial hobbies and more to do with a strategic pursuit.

Many mistake his mother’s aloofness for arrogance. She promotes this perception by clothing herself with luxury brands and decorating herself with expensive jewels. His mother is gifted at balancing the opulent splendor of modern times with the prestige of the ancient world. The position serves her well. It provides her with the one advantage Sesshomaru never had: defining her own path.

His mother made great strides since the days following Touga’s abandonment. She reinvented herself, not solely amongst her fellow daiyokai, but across the country. To the yokai community, she is known as the head of the Crescent Clan. To the rest of the world, she is Arisu Aikawa, the founder of Meido Consulting.

Owning the top-ranked Mergers and Acquisitions firm placed his mother in a position of power and influence extending beyond her role as a daiyokai. Even if she were to fall out of favor with them, they would be unable to ignore her. Meido Consulting established her in the business world. Some would argue the position grants Arisu more liberties than the Crescent Clan.

Sesshomaru agrees.

His mother’s portfolio extends beyond the borders of Japan. Taisho Enterprises may be an international company, but Meido Consulting has global recognition. Arisu built a robust network to ensure her company is aptly supported. There is no single point of failure within their organizational structure. She will not allow Meido Consulting to crumble the way she once did.

He reasons her recent lack of communication must stem from a new acquisition. Lately, his mother’s focus has shifted back to Japan. She’s been spending time in Okinawa, buying up parcels of land for resort development. Since the prefecture returned to sovereignty, it has grown in popularity. Sesshomaru believes Arisu intends to capitalize on the exponential growth in tourism.

Or she could be purchasing the land merely to flaunt her wealth. It would annoy his father. Typically, Sesshomaru despises petty behavior but recent events have altered his opinion. He wonders if his mother would be interested in taking him in as a silent partner. However, it would require her to divulge her plan to him which will never happen.

It is an annoyance, though not nearly as aggravating as his assistant. Mr. Ueda has been out of sorts the entire day. Sesshomaru caught him looking at his phone on numerous occasions and during their last meeting, he had the audacity to actually smile at what he saw on the device’s screen.

Sesshomaru considers tossing the man’s mobile off the twelfth-story balcony. That ought to wipe the sappy grin off his assistant’s face.

“Wouldn’t you agree, Mr. Taisho?”

His gaze is cold as he faces the Facilities Vice President. The man assumes Sesshomaru hasn’t been following their conversation. He is ignorant of how heightened daiyokai senses are— or the fact that they are more than capable of multitasking.

“No, Mr. Hamada, I do not.”

The VP snaps to attention. Flustered, he adjusts his tie and scoffs. “Excuse me?”

“Not only is this a risky approach from a financial standpoint, but we would also face barriers in staffing this initiative. Your timeline conflicts with three other critical projects the company already committed to for that quarter.”

“Mr. Taisho, I assure you—.”

“Your assurance is not what concerns me. Your proposal lacks research. Do you even have a basic understanding of the recent shifts in real estate market trends? Or is this your feeble attempt to assist your nephew with his business endeavors in that region?”

Mr. Hamada‘s face twists in surprise and shame. “How dare you?”

Sesshomaru stands and buttons his suit. “I will be reassigning this contract to Mrs. Kobayashi.”

The VP slams his hands down on the table as he jumps up. “You can’t do that!”

Sesshomaru’s gaze narrows. “Pardon?”

“I…uh…,” the man appears to shrink before he withers and folds into his seat. “M-My apologies, sir. I will make Director Kobayashi aware of the transition.”

“See that you do.”

Sesshomaru exits the conference room. He hears the rustling of papers and the shuffle of leather soles on the carpet as his assistant scrambles to match his pace.

“Sir?”

He ignores the man in favor of summoning an elevator to the twelfth floor. Mr. Ueda, flustered and out of breath, manages to slip in before the doors close.

“Mr. Taisho, a second of your time, please.”

“Yes?”

“Is it wise to reassign Mr. Hamada’s proposal to a junior member of his staff?”

“Are you also questioning my judgment, Mr. Ueda?”

“No, sir. I just meant that…well, Mr. Hamada’s family is connected to some of the most successful real estate brokers in the country. If you make him your enemy, won’t it affect our future projects?”

“As opposed to allowing him to allocate funds to projects providing him with personal gain but will ultimately fail? Why should I encourage a course of action leading to a multi-million dollar loss for our company?”

“Of course, sir. I was only suggesting—.”

“Business is not about making friends, Mr. Ueda. We build our organizations through partnerships with others. When both partners are aligned, both succeed. However, if one becomes greedy and begins to solely address their own needs, the partnership is no longer viable and should be terminated.”

“I understand. Apologies, sir,” Mr. Ueda responds.

When he bows his head, Sesshomaru spots a mark on his neck. He leans closer to his assistant, subtly taking in the man’s scent. There are fading traces of a lighter, feminine scent combined with his. Sesshomaru draws away. He is not certain whether to be stunned or amused by this turn of events.

“How did things go with Ms. Yajima?”

Mr. Ueda’s entire face goes red. “W-What do you mean?”

“I assigned you to meet with her yesterday evening. Did you?”

“Yes! Yes, of course, sir. I arrived at the restaurant as you requested.”

“And did you speak with Ms. Yajima?”

His assistant drops his gaze, turning away with a sheepish expression. “Yes.”

Mr. Ueda’s response is so quiet Sesshomaru is certain he would not have heard it if not for his heightened senses.

“Was she displeased?”

“Maybe a bit at first but then…,” Mr. Ueda trails off, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Then?” Sesshomaru prompts.

“Well, I, er…”

Sesshomaru studies his assistant. The man has begun perspiring. Whatever happened between him and the actress must have gone beyond the realm of a simple business meeting to personal interest.

“You need not explain further. Your non-working hours are none of my concern. If you wish to spend time with Ms. Yajima or anyone else, you are free to do so.”

Mr. Ueda jolts. “Mr. Taisho?”

“As long as you do not allow your nightly activities to affect your duties here. Do we have an understanding, Mr. Ueda?”

“Yes, sir.”

The elevator chimes. The twin doors open, bisecting his reflections in their metallic sheen. It reminds him of the dual roles he is playing— dedicated CEO and devoted son. The former is worth his ongoing attention. The latter is not, at least not where his father is concerned. Fortunately, the quickest way to rebalance the equation is by shifting his priority to someone worthy of attention.

He steps off the elevator and heads toward his office. Mr. Ueda trails behind him, still struggling to maintain his composure.

“Please ensure the meeting minutes from our discussion with Facilities are sent out before you leave for the weekend,” Sesshomaru directs his assistant.

He rounds his desk. With a single click, he powers off his monitor. Sesshomaru gathers several files and places them in his satchel along with his laptop.

“Do you have another business dinner this evening?” Mr. Ueda inquires.

“A dinner, yes. Business, no.”

His assistant gawks at him for a moment before remembering himself. He shakes his head, erasing the idiotic expression from his face. “Are you going to see Ms. Naraku again?”

Sesshomaru scoffs. “No. We are incompatible.”

Mr. Ueda’s brows pinch together. “Then who— oh! ”

Sesshomaru catches the recognition on the man’s face. His mood instantly darkens. He approaches Mr. Ueda. “I will not meddle in your personal affairs if you do not interfere in mine. Agreed?”

His tone causes the man to flinch. The effect is short-lived. Mr. Ueda clears his throat and adjusts his stance. “Mr. Taisho, I acknowledge you are my superior but, in this matter, I must be frank. I count Ms. Higurashi among my closest friends. If your intentions for her are less than honorable, I suggest you stick to your work. Kagome doesn’t deserve to be a stand-in.”

“I agree, which is why I will overlook this breach of etiquette and not take disciplinary action against you.”

Mr. Ueda stares at him. “Then…earlier today, in the cafe…it wasn’t a coincidence?”

“It was not.”

He stumbles back, bringing a hand to his forehead with the weight of this revelation. “I didn’t realize. I just assumed—.”

Sesshomaru silences him with a hand on his shoulder. “My relationship with Kagome is a private matter. I would advise against making any assumptions regarding our arrangement. Focus on more pertinent matters, such as finishing up your work in time to see Ms. Yajima.”

Mr. Ueda goes red. “Yes, of course, sir.”

Sesshomaru leaves. He did not intend for his assistant to find out about Kagome, however, Sesshomaru doubts it will be an issue. Mr. Ueda would never jeopardize his friendship with Kagome. Additionally, it would be foolish for him to make an enemy of Sesshomaru. He would not only lose a companion but his job as well.

His perceptiveness is concerning. If a timid man like Mr. Ueda managed to piece together Sesshomaru’s involvement with Kagome, others within the company could be aware as well. He will need to be more restrained in the future.

That is a challenge for another day. For now, he is free to focus on their time together.

And, if Sesshomaru has his way, their time this weekend won’t end in a single evening.

Chapter Text

When Sesshomaru invited her to his home, Kagome knew it wouldn’t be anything like the shrine. Her childhood home exists on a patch of land adjacent to the ancestral grounds. The shrine itself is not ancient like the daiyokai clans Sesshomaru descended from, but it is one of the oldest standing structures in Tokyo. Their house is the only building on the compound built this century.

It is a comfortable, but modest place. Like the shrine, the house has undergone renovations. They converted Gramp’s office into an extra bedroom when Mama, Souta, and her came to live there. A few years later, they did the same to the study upstairs so Kagome could have her own room.

While it doesn’t contain fancy appliances or high-end furnishing, her family’s home is welcoming. The rooms are littered with evidence of their occupants. If someone were to walk through the house, they would be able to tell who sleeps in which room. Gramps has a series of mini bonsai on the window of his bedroom. Souta’s floor is covered in video game character figurines. Mama’s room contains Papa’s altar. The portrait of Kagome’s father has been displayed there since they moved in.

Their house does not bolster modern architecture and having to share a single bathroom is a pain. Regardless, it is home. It is the place Kagome goes when she needs a reset. She is safe there. Kagome wonders if Sesshomaru feels the same about his house.

She envisions a vast property tucked behind towering walls of decorative concrete topped off with surveillance cameras. Kagome expects Sesshomaru to live in a massive building embodying traditional Japanese architecture. His preference for functionality leads her to believe the decor will be minimalistic. She suspects the only personal touches are weapons.

As if to prove her assumption, Sesshomaru drives out past the city limits. He pulls up to an intimidating security gate. The wooden structure is reinforced with steel. Metal is strong, though not as powerful as the invisible barriers surrounding the daiyokai’s home.

Sesshomaru rolls down his window and opens a metal cabinet on the wall. A keypad is situated inside. He punches in an eight-digit code and the gate automatically begins to retract. Kagome braces herself for the sting of yoki on her skin.

The car passes through the barriers— seen and unseen, yet she feels nothing. Curious, she glances around.

“Our marks allow us to pass freely into each other’s territory. How else would I have gained access to your home?” Sesshomaru prompts.

When he mentions last night Kagome realizes how badly he could have been injured. The last yokai who tried to break into her apartment became so severely burned, his arm had to be amputated. She’s glad Sesshomaru is not as foolish. “How did you know?”

“I did not,” he confirms, guiding the car along the driveway. “I trusted my instincts.”

“You didn’t try to open the door until you made sure?” Kagome surmises.

He nods. “If your barrier would not permit me entry, I was prepared to contact Ms. Naraku.”

“That wouldn’t have gone well.”

“I am aware Ms. Naraku’s opinion of me differs from yours.”

“Yeah, Kagura wasn’t happy when she got home. She said your scent was everywhere.”

“Hn.”

“Is it the same for you? Did her scent bother you?”

“No. The only scent I was conscious of was yours.”

Kagome’s cheeks turn red. “Selective scenting?”

Sesshomaru smirks. “I believe you were the one who pointed out that I prefer the finer things.”

She can’t meet his gaze. His golden eyes convey too much, far more than she is capable of dealing with right now.

The car stops in front of a sleek, modern home. While the wooden fixtures are reminiscent of a traditional house, the floor-to-ceiling windows and flat roofs lend themselves to a more recent architectural style.

The entrance is accentuated by a beautiful bonsai garden which is separated from the driveway by a large, rectangular pool of water. A walkway extends over the smooth surface. The platform doubles as a deck. There is a pool ladder on the far side, suggesting the water element isn’t just for show.

Sunlight casts a radiant glow through the two-story structure. It illuminates the large, but vacant rooms. If Kagome didn’t know any better, she’d think they were visiting a home for sale.

She wonders how often Sesshomaru comes here. He doesn’t need to sleep as often as she does. Maybe he only uses the house to rest.

Kagome turns to ask him and finds Sesshomaru staring at her. She’s been so engrossed by the house, she didn’t hear him turn the car off.

“Would you care to see the inside?” he inquires.

“Okay.”

Kagome grabs her bag and exits the car. She follows Sesshomaru across the planked wood hovering above his pool. Sesshomaru glides over the bridge soundlessly. Kagome is not as graceful. Her footsteps cause ripples to break out across the surface.

She imagines if Souta were here they’d be full-on waves. Her brother isn’t subtle about things, especially his affinity for electronics. Based on what she knows about Sesshomaru, Kagome suspects the main living area is outfitted with the latest technology. She can’t wait to brag about it to Souta.

“He’d be so jealous!”

“Who would?” Sesshomaru is watching her with a bemused expression.

“My brother. He is obsessed with video games,” she explains.

“I don’t have any of those here.”

Kagome laughs. “I would think it was weird if you did.”

There is a momentary pause as he contemplates.“Perhaps, I should purchase a few.”

“Why?”

“It is customary to exchange gifts when two clans meet to discuss the joining of their families through mating.”

“No!” Kagome waves her hand back and forth. “You don’t have to worry about Souta. He already spends more time in front of the TV than Mama likes.”

“Then I could employ a tutor to assist him in his studies.”

Kagome loops her arm through his. “Sesshomaru, we agreed to date, right?”

He gives her a pensive stare. “Indeed.”

“So let’s focus on spending time together. Everything else will fall into place eventually.”

“Eventually?”

“Yeah, after a year or two—.”

“A year?” He stops so suddenly that Kagome‘s arm dislodges from its hold.

She turns around. “Is the timeline too aggressive? How long do inuyokai usually court for?”

Sesshomaru frowns. “I thought we agreed.”

“We did,” Kagome insists, reaching to interlace their fingers together. “But this is new for me— for both of us. I’ve never dated anyone before. I want to enjoy this phase of our relationship. Don’t you?”

“Yes.”

He doesn’t appear convinced. Kagome isn’t aware of inuyokai courting traditions but she has a long list of dating activities to try. “We can take pictures in matching outfits, go to the movies together, take a trip— there are plenty of things to do as a couple.”

“What purpose do these activities serve? We have already established our abilities are compatible.” He lifts her hand to display the mark mirrored on his palm.

“If compatibility was the only common element, then Kagura and I would be a couple,” Kagome returns. Sesshomaru’s eyes go wide and she laughs. “There’s more to being in a committed relationship than simply being a good match.”

“We are attracted to one another,” Sesshomaru says.

“You’re right. It helps if the partners are attracted to each other but they should also understand each other.”

“Do you understand me?” he inquires.

She smiles and squeezes his hand. “I’m getting there. The more time we spend together, the more you open up and I learn about you— what you like and dislike.”

“I like you.”

Her cheeks color again. This time the warmth spreads slowly. The gratification she feels from his response brightens her mood so much her skin can’t contain it. “I like you too,” she replies. “Which is why I want to take our time. I don’t want to rush into a relationship based solely on attraction.”

“Am I not permitted to be attracted to you?”

Kagome feels her resolve slipping under his gaze. His eyes have always been intense. Right now, they are filled with sincerity and emphasized by Sesshomaru’s gentle tone. It’s difficult not to be swayed by his charm. “That’s not the point. Taking a mate is a big deal and, up until a few weeks ago, you weren’t interested in having one. Now, you’ve decided you do want one.”

“I want you,” he confirms.

“Right, but I’m not a yokai. I’m human,” Kagome clarifies, placing her free hand on her chest. “It’s bound to cause some problems.”

His eyes narrow. “If anyone takes issue with you, I will address their concerns.”

Kagome sighs. “Sesshomaru, listen. What I’m worried about isn’t your family’s disapproval. Well…,” she trails off, scratching her chin, “maybe a little bit. Who wouldn’t be nervous about meeting their in-laws?” Upon mentioning his parents, Kagome notices Sesshomaru perk up. She takes hold of his other hand and turns to face him fully. “I want to go slow because I want us to be happy together. A mating bond is permanent but it doesn’t guarantee the relationship will be successful. For that to happen, we both have to put in the work. That starts with a solid foundation.”

“What do you suggest?”

“Sharing experiences, talking about our days, sparring so your girlfriend can prove she’s the superior fighter,” she says, releasing his hands as she turns to head inside.

“You did not defeat me.”

Kagome peers over her shoulder with a mischievous grin. “You didn’t beat me either.”

There is a predatory glint in his eyes as he responds, “I will this evening.”

“You seem rather confident, Mr. Taisho.”

“I have no reason to doubt my abilities, Ms. Higurashi.”

“That’s fine. I have enough doubt for both of us.”

He smirks. “Is that so? Care for another wager then?”

Kagome places her hands on her hips, head tilted as she gazes up at him. “What are the terms?”

“I will respect your wishes, however, I do not wish my first meeting with your family to be the one where I announce our intentions to mate.”

The familiar burn of embarrassment sears her face. “Sesshomaru—.”

“If I win, you will introduce me to your family.”

“Alright,” Kagome agrees. After all, there’s nothing wrong with Sesshomaru wanting to meet her family. It’s actually adorable. This whole time, Kagome has been worried about her family’s reception of him. She never considered how Sesshomaru would feel.  

He has lived alone for the majority of his life. He sacrificed freedom for the sake of duty. Taking responsibility for one’s family is a situation Kagome knows all too well. She also understands how lonely that path can be. But it doesn’t have to be that way anymore. Sesshomaru isn’t alone. He has her to rely on 

“If I win, you take me on your next hunting mission.” 

His response is a swift and resolute, “No.”

Her arms drop to her sides. “Sesshomaru—.”

“The responsibility for dealing with rogue yokai falls to me. You do not need to involve yourself.”

“I’m not weak! How can you consider me a potential mate if you don’t trust me to guard your back?”

“That is not what I said.” 

Kagome steps forward. “You know what I can do. I have used reiki to combat yokai for years. I might be a little out of practice but that doesn’t mean I can’t protect myself. Please,” she says, placing her hand on his upper arm, “let me help you.”

He holds her gaze, contemplating his options. However, when Kagome makes it clear she will not give up, he closes his eyes and nods. “Very well. If you win, you may accompany me. Only if you win.”

“Oh, I’ll win,” Kagome returns. 

“We shall see.”

Sesshomaru leads her inside. The interior is reminiscent of his office. It is well-kept and tidy. There is nothing unique about any of the rooms. They appear to be new. There isn’t a single sign of the house being lived in— no scuff marks on the floors or dents in the walls. Even the bedsheets are pristine. There isn’t a crease out of place. 

“How many nights do you sleep here?” she asks.

“Once or twice.”

“A week?”

“A month,” he corrects. “If I require rest more often, I do so in my office.”

Kagome was wrong. His life isn’t lonely; it’s prescriptive. Everything Sesshomaru chooses to do from the moment the sun rises to the second it sets serves a purpose. He is ruled by an undeniable determination, not society’s laws or even those of his father. Yet, his survival instincts extend beyond himself to include his mother, his clan, and the rest of the yokai population. 

Again, Kagome finds herself thinking about what a jerk Touga Taisho is. How can he be oblivious to his son’s compassion? 

“You may change in here,” Sesshomaru instructs, ushering her into one of the guest rooms. 

“Thanks,” Kagome says. 

“I’ll meet you downstairs.” Sesshomaru closes the door as he leaves. 

Kagome stares at the bag in her hand. She first brought her high school gym uniform to work with her to use the corporate gym. Kagome figured she’d get into a routine once her work schedule was established. This was years ago. She forgot about her uniform until today when the need finally arrived. 

She sets the bag on the bed to unzip it. Inside, a tracksuit and a plain T-shirt sit folded on top of a pair of sneakers. Kagome changes out of her work attire. Her athletic clothes are much more comfortable and have the added benefit of allowing better mobility. If Sesshomaru thinks he’s winning this round, he’s in for a surprise.

It’s not that Kagome doesn’t want Sesshomaru to meet her family. Gramps’ prejudice aside, she thinks he’ll enjoy visiting the shrine. Escaping the chaos of downtown for the subdued atmosphere is sure to make him feel at home. Kagome knows he’ll appreciate the Sengoku Era architecture. While most people consider it honoring tradition, Sesshomaru will find comfort in familiarity.

Regardless, Kagome plans on beating him. She refuses to let Sesshomaru continue protecting the city by himself. He may be a powerful daiyokai but responsibility for the safety of others shouldn’t fall solely to him. There are skilled fighters such as herself who can lend a hand. Kagome will prove she’s capable. But first, she has to win.

Dressed in her gym clothes, Kagome heads downstairs. Sesshomaru is waiting, gazing out the window. He turns as she approaches.

“Ready?”

“Are you?” he counters.

“Don’t be too mad when I beat you.”

“That will not happen.”

Kagome scoffs. “We’ll see.”

“We certainly will.”

They step off the rear deck onto a field of fresh grass extending so far that Kagome is unable to determine where it ends. The blades are colored in golden light as the sun begins its descent. The unnatural color reminds Kagome of their rooftop battle. Their first match ended in a tie. This one will not.

“You’re sure no one will see us?” she asks, settling into a defensive stance.

“This is where I revert to my true form. I assure you, no one will interfere.”

“Okay, let’s do this.”

Sesshomaru positions himself several paces from her. “Ready?”

Kagome responds by advancing on him. She keeps her chin tucked and charges. Her target is his knee. A direct hit to the joint will disrupt his balance and offset his form. It should provide her with a clear opening. She’ll never be able to overpower him physically, but her slim build gives her the advantage of agility. If she can take him by surprise, the probability of her landing a strike increases exponentially.

Sesshomaru springs out of range. Kagome doesn’t chase after him. The only thing more reckless than attacking in anger is proceeding without a plan. She lets Sesshomaru come to her.

He fires off a shot aimed at her cheek. Kagome stumbles back, surprised by his speed. None of her training prepared her to fight someone of Sesshomaru’s caliber. A half-second delay could cost her the win. She needs to remain focused.

Another punch glides through the air. This time, Kagome is ready for the attack. She weaves around Sesshomaru’s fist, encasing his hand between hers. With a burst of reiki to momentarily paralyze him, Kagome ducks under his outstretched arm and yanks it behind him. She uses the side of her hand to strike his elbow joint. Sesshomaru's arm bends in half. Kagome lifts it by the wrist, pulling it toward his opposite shoulder. The hold is tight enough to be uncomfortable but not severe enough to cause any permanent damage. She’s used it on Kouga countless times. 

Unfortunately for Kagome, Sesshomaru isn’t Kouga. 

A swift kick sweeps her ankle, sending her pitching backward. Kagome lets her body flow with the momentum of the fall. She rolls across the grass. The move allows her to regain her footing before Sesshomaru’s next assault.

He doesn’t give her a reprieve. Sesshomaru advances. His arms are opened wide, seemingly offering up a clear shot to his torso but Kagome knows better than to fall for it. Like a Venus flytrap, Sesshomaru is coaxing her in so he can pin her arms to her sides. Once rendered immobile, it is only a matter of seconds before he secures victory.

She holds her ground until the last possible second. As Sesshomaru lunges for her, Kagome swings to the right and leans back to snap out a powerful front kick. The ball of her foot collides with his kneecap.

Sesshomaru falters. He sidesteps, rotating around to face her once more. His lips pull up into a smirk and then he’s rushing at her. Before Kagome has a chance to react, Sesshomaru latches onto her wrist. With one arm, he drags her toward him.

There isn’t enough space to throw a punch or a kick. The only option Kagome has left is an elbow strike. She musters all her energy and twists to the left, raising her elbow in a sharp arch. The pointy part of her bone connects with Sesshomaru’s collarbone.

She tries to break free of his hold but his other arm locks around her waist, causing her to stumble backward. Kagome shifts toward him. She thrusts the full force of her palm upward, catching him under the jaw.

Instantly, Sesshomaru releases her. As he peers at her over his hands, Kagome notes the brilliant blaze burning in his metallic eyes. The sight reminds her of who she’s sparring with. Suddenly, Sesshomaru’s office nickname doesn’t sound humorous anymore.

“You are the first to ever land a strike to my face,” he reveals.

On the surface, his words appear to be a compliment. The deeper meaning is a warning. Kagome summons reiki to her fingertips, preparing for his counterattack.  

Slowly, he circles her, much like a tiger cornering its prey. Any indication of him pouncing pressures Kagome to change her stance. She shifts her weight from side to side, angling her hands to block an incoming blow.

As they revolve around each other, Kagome feels a swell of yoki building. She decides to cut off his attack. Kagome swings a high kick at him, causing Sesshomaru to retreat, before he dodges another kick. He is prepared for her follow-through. Sesshomaru catches her by the calf. She sees his next move before he can complete his retaliation. Kagome throws all her weight backward, using her free leg to kick up and out. Her heel collides with his core, causing them to break apart. 

Sesshomaru skids across the grass but manages to land on his feet. Kagome ends up sprawled across the ground, chest heaving as she tries to catch her breath. There is a split second of indecisiveness, then, as sudden as a bolt of lightning, they both arrive at the same conclusion. Whoever makes the next move will have the upper hand. In unison, they lunge for each other. 

He goes for her wrists again. Sensing his intent, Kagome catches his hands with her own, redirecting his energy to the left. She tries not to register the smooth texture of his skin. Unlike her other sparring partners, Sesshomaru’s hands are untarnished. There are no scars or calluses to serve as evidence of his extensive experience. The only markings his flesh endured are ones he earned, including the partner to her palm mark. Kagome’s grip loosens just enough to slide down his wrists and hook around his fingers. Leveraging the last ounce of momentum, she presses back. Sesshomaru jerks and twists away. 

Kagome grins. 

But victory is nothing more than a mirage. 

As abruptly as he steps away, Sesshomaru advances. He approaches with his shoulder angled down. One second, Kagome is focused on him and the next she is staring at the sky. Her vision is blurred yet her mental capabilities remain clear.

Before Sesshomaru’s face can come into focus, she moves. Adrenaline is pumping through her. It erases the pain of being flipped long enough for her to coordinate an escape. She rolls over her shoulder, narrowly avoiding Sesshomaru’s fist.

The tumble backward rights her footing. As his second strike flies, Kagome ducks. His claws cut through the air. The pass ruffles her bangs. Sesshomaru is aware that close combat limits her options for a counterattack. He’s crowding her again. This range only allows for an elbow or knee strike. Neither will be enough to incapacitate him.

As he moves toward her, Kagome realizes this is like the end of a Shogi game. The available moves are dwindling. Crowning a victor is merely a matter of time. What she does next will determine the outcome of this match.

Kagome holds her position, facing off against him. She can’t physically overpower him. Fortunately, physical strength has nothing to do with her strategy.

She prepares to return his surge of yoki with a blast of her own. Kagome plans to manipulate the energy the same way she did his attack momentum earlier. Her fingers uncurl from her fists as she raises her hands.

Just as she readied herself for the hit, a figure appears in her peripherals. Kagome glances toward the house. A woman stands on the rear porch. Her hands are folded in front of her and her gaze is set upon Sesshomaru.

Before Kagome can warn him, she’s struck by his yoki.

The blow sends her flying. Kagome lands on her side. The brunt of her weight being taken by her shoulder. She winces and lets out a hiss of pain.

“Kagome.” Sesshomaru appears at her side. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah,” she rasps, trying to sit up. He helps her.

“You did not block the attack,” he says, bewildered.

“I thought I saw….” Kagome looks over her shoulder. The woman is gone.

“Kagome?”

“It’s nothing,” she assures him. “You won.”

He frowns. “I will call a physician. We should have you examined.”

“Don’t bother. Nothing is broken. All I need is a hot shower and some dinner.”

Sesshomaru studies her. “I could call a healer if you would prefer—.”

Kagome wraps her hand around his. “Sesshomaru, I’m fine. My ego is more bruised than my shoulder.”

Her comment appears to have its desired effect. He relaxes. “I anticipated you would counter.”

She leans against him as she stands. “That was my plan. Guess I’m more out of practice than I thought.”

“Moving forward, I will ensure my schedule includes a standing appointment for Friday evenings.”

“Sparring and dinner. How romantic,” Kagome teases.

“Friday is merely the start of the weekend.”

“So, tomorrow, then?”

“That was our agreement,” Sesshomaru confirms, leading her inside.

“Okay,” she yields. “I usually leave for the metro around nine.”

“I will drive. Of course, there would be no need to pick you up if you were already here.”

Kagome stumbles. “What?”

“You are welcome to stay overnight.”

Her face heats. “Isn’t this moving too fast? We just became official today!”

“That depends.” 

“On what?”

“Which bed you choose to sleep in.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sesshomaru was skeptical of Kagome’s dinner recommendation. Initially, he believed it was a farce in retaliation for his quip about her sharing his bed. It was not. 

Her directions led them to a small shop a few blocks from Kagome’s apartment. The signage is simplistic. A yellow chicken stands next to the shop’s name, HaHa Chicken. It is not on the same level as restaurants such as La Perilla or Sezanne. If he were crafting a report, it would not even be featured in the same category. Sesshomaru cannot understand why Kagome suggested such a lowly place. 

Then, they exit the car.

He does not need to step inside to partake in the flavorful scent of cooked meat. The smell laces the night air with its enticing fragrance. It is even more potent inside.

“Kagura and I used to come here all the time,” Kagome says.

“I assume she is preoccupied with entrapping another to be her stand-in.”

“It’s more like she’s too busy with her girlfriend.”

Sesshomaru arches a brow. He knew the wind demoness was uninterested in her father’s plans. The reason was irrelevant. Sesshomaru had not given it much thought. He assumed Ms. Naraku merely sought escape from an obligation. Now, however, he understands why Kagome was so adamant about keeping her promise.

Onigumo Naraku will not approve of his eldest taking a female mate. It limits his opportunity to extend his bloodline and create permanent alliances with the other clans. Without her, Naraku must rely on his youngest. Their situations are more alike than Sesshomaru originally thought.

“Which clan does she hail from?” he inquires.

“I don’t know. I haven’t met her yet. Maybe we can double date sometime.”

He would rather sit through a family dinner than have to endure such a thing.

His feelings must show because Kagome starts laughing. “Maybe not.”

“My opinion is not the only one posing an issue.”

“I know. Kagura blames herself for our involvement. She didn’t expect you to take her advice.”

“Which was?”

“To get to know the real me.”

Sesshomaru is reminded of Ms. Naraku’s suggestion. Back then, he was conflicted about approaching Kagome. After his encounter with Ms. Naraku, he made a decision. Perhaps he owes her a thank you.

“Shall I send her a bouquet as well?” he quips.

Again, Kagome laughs.

He enjoys the sound, almost as much as he appreciates this uninterrupted time with her. They are no longer constrained by hidden agendas or office etiquette. There is no ruse to uphold, or rules to abide by. This evening, they are free to be as they wish.

“I’m guessing this is your first time at a fried chicken stand?”

“Indeed.”

“I’ll order for us. Can you grab a table?”

Sesshomaru takes a seat in the corner, where he can see the whole restaurant, including the main entrance and the side exit. Though he will be able to scent any potential threats before they enter, he prefers this vantage point. His reputation is infamous. A single glare from him can deter an enemy before the fight begins.

Defending his territory is not an issue. Losing precious time with Kagome is. Between her work and sleeping hours, there is a brief window of availability for him. He will not give it up to deal with rogues— yokai or otherwise.

“This is the best chicken in the city.” Kagome places a cardboard box in front of him. The container is packed with pieces of lightly fried meat. The tantalizing scent makes up for its nondescript appearance. She passes him a fresh set of disposable chopsticks. “Eat up!”

Sesshomaru is gratified to discover the chicken tastes as good as it smells.

Despite the informal setting and need for proper flatware, Haha Chicken boasts a large clientele. There is a constant stream of people entering and exiting the establishment. The majority of the clientele orders take away. If Sesshomaru had known, he would have suggested they do the same. Then he might have been able to convince her to stay the night.

“What do you think?” Kagome asks over a half-eaten drumstick. “Awesome, right?”

“It is satisfying,” Sesshomaru agrees.

“This was the first meal Kagura and I shared after we moved into the apartment. I was exhausted from moving and didn’t want to cook so we stopped in here. We’ve been patrons ever since.”

“I am certain they appreciate your loyalty.”

“Probably about as much as La Perilla appreciates yours,” Kagome returns. She finishes her drumstick and sets it down with a smile. “It’s nice— having a place to go at the end of a long day, somewhere you know and they know you. It’s not home, per se, but it’s comfortable.”

Sesshomaru recognizes this is one of Kagome’s talents. She sees the world differently and embraces it. She uses her connection to bring the world into focus for others.

Sesshomaru has always viewed his choice to eat at La Perilla as a necessity, even though there are multiple Michelin Star-rated restaurants closer to the office. He assumed it was because of their fine cuisine. There was no need to define his preference further. Now, he realizes the truth behind his decision. La Perilla does have excellent food. He continues to go because it is familiar. It is the closest thing he has felt to home in a long time.

Until he met Kagome.

Sesshomaru cannot recall anyone making an impact on his life as extensively as the woman seated across from him. Or quite as abruptly. From the first night he met her, Kagome challenged him. He never expected to find someone he could contend with both physically and mentally. Now, he will do whatever it takes to keep her by his side.

“Last night, when we were leaving Kinka—.”

Kagome drops her head on the table. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have drunk so much. I thought you went on a date with Yura Yajima and I just…” She groans. “I’m so embarrassed.”

“Why?”

“For smacking you, yelling at you, blaming you for my feelings…,” she trails off as her voice quiets, “but mostly, for believing you would date someone else.”

Sesshomaru hooks a finger under her chin, lifting her face. “Kagome, I do not require an apology. Other than your hangover, the only thing I was curious about was this.” He locks his finger around hers. “What does this mean?”

She blinks, startled. “You never heard of a yubikiri before?”

His lack of response answers her question.

Her face relaxes into a warm smile. “It’s also called a pinky swear. When two people make a promise this way, they agree going back on the vow is punishable by swallowing a thousand needles.”

“Seems serious.”

“It is.”

Securing victory was satisfying but this reward is much more fulfilling. Kagome instigated this. She chose to initiate the promise. She chose him. Her exact words were ‘no takebacks’.

He does not intend to.

Chapter Text

Weekends are generally associated with soothing activities— going for a walk in the park, enjoying a new book, or meeting up with friends.

Kagome has never had much time for relaxing. The loss of her father forced her to take an active role in the housework. Once Souta was old enough to help out, Kagome transitioned from household chores to helping Gramps with the shrine and, eventually, part-time gigs after school. College was the same. Kagome worked multiple jobs to offset renovation costs. Downtime, especially on weekends, was a rare luxury often reserved for holidays.

They still are.

Most of her weekend hours are spent at the shrine. When Kagome is not helping Kouga and his crew, she is preparing items for the festival season or helping with inventory. There is always something to do. Most of the time it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day.

Sesshomaru’s offer to accompany her was a surprise. The more Kagome thought about it, the more she realized how much she wanted someone’s support. Kagura has always been generous with her donations to the shrine. On more than one occasion, her funding has saved them. Unfortunately, that’s where Kagura’s support ends.

Kagome would understand if Sesshomaru did the same. His free time is as nonexistent as hers. He has an international company to run and a territory to protect. It would be easier for him to throw money at the problem than actively participate in the cleanup, yet that’s what he does.

At nine sharp, Sesshomaru is waiting outside her apartment building. He is dressed casually. Kagome has never been interested in pop idols or models but she’s convinced Sesshomaru could easily outshine the best of them. He is effortlessly handsome. Once she gets over the shock of finding out Sesshomaru Taisho owns jeans, Kagome greets him.

“How did you sleep?”

“Okay. Kagura just got back a couple of hours ago. She prefers to sleep in to avoid her father at the office.”

“It is Saturday.”

Kagome shrugs. “Force of habit.”

“You should have slept over. No one would have woken you at my residence.”

She crosses her arms over her chest and tilts her head skeptically. “No one?”

“If you chose the guest room,” Sesshomaru clarifies.

Blush paints her cheeks. No matter how often he teases her, Kagome is never prepared. No one has ever spoken to her as directly as Sesshomaru. Not in a romantic sense, at least. His confidence is flattering, albeit a bit intimidating. He never appears out of control or uncertain about how to act. Kagome wishes she was more like him in that respect.

“Have you informed your family that I will be accompanying you this morning?” he inquires.

“No, it was too late to call.”

“Are you concerned about their reaction?”

“Mama is very accepting. The fact that you’re coming to help on your day off will go a long way. If you know anything about soccer, that can be you’re in with Souta,” she explains.

“What about your grandfather? As the patriarch of your clan, his approval is the most important to obtain.”

“Gramps is set in his ways,” Kagome admits. “He doesn’t trust many yokai or hanyos. He barely tolerated Kagura when I first brought her home.”

“What changed his mind?”

“Time.”

“Hn.”

“Hey,” Kagome hugs his arm, “there’s no rush. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to win him over. Just remember what we talked about last night.”

Her reassurances don’t convince Sesshomaru. His expression remains contemplative. If their roles were reversed, Kagome would feel the same. Meeting your significant other's family is a daunting task. Today has the potential to change the trajectory of their relationship. It's a lot of pressure for a single outing.

“I know I said I was worried about you visiting my home so soon after we started dating," Kagome tells him, "but I’m also grateful. No one has ever offered to help with the renovations.”

“Ms. Naraku is your patron, is she not?”

“She is.”

Sesshomaru gives her a knowing look. “She does not wish to sully her hands with menial labor.”

Kagome is quick to come to her friend’s defense. “No! It’s not like that! Kagura just doesn’t like Kouga and his pack.”

Recognition dawns, swiftly followed by a darker look in Sesshomaru’s eyes. “You’re associated with the northern wolf clan?” He phrases it as a question but based on the way he’s staring at her makes it sound like a statement.

“I’ve known them for years. Kouga and his crew have been in charge of the shrine renovations since I discovered the last contractor was scamming us. His pack stepped in. They’ve been taking care of the work ever since. They do a good job.”

“I will be the judge of that.”

Kagome doesn’t understand the severity of those words until they arrive.

They are barely out of the car when Kagome feels a shift in the air. Instinctively, she tenses, readying herself for a fight. The second they approach the shrine’s entrance steps, a shadow descends upon them.

Raised voices, bared teeth, and thrown punches are typically reserved for Monday mornings. Such tactics are not generally associated with peaceful weekend activities. Unfortunately for Kagome, she is facing all of those issues. It seems she was concerned about the wrong introductions.

“Kagome, get behind me.”

“Kouga, he’s not a threat. This is—.”

“I know who he is,” Kouga spits. “You shouldn’t be here.”

“You are mistaken.” Sesshomaru drapes his arm over her shoulders. “I am exactly where I should be.”

“Don’t touch her!”

Sesshomaru glares at him. “Do not proceed to give me orders.”

“I’ll order you around if I want! You aren’t the lord of me!”

“Perhaps I should be.”

“Ha! As if you could.” Kouga sneers. “You stuck-up daiyokai and your elitist crap. You think we all worship the ground you walk on. You’re so deluded that you perceive politeness as attraction.”

“How so?”

“Don’t think you’re special. Kagome is kind to everyone.”

“I am well aware.”

“Are you?” Kouga challenges. “Because from where I’m standing, you look as though you’re trying to court her.”

“I am.”

“Like hell you are!”

Again, Kagome tries to intervene. It’s Saturday but her throbbing head makes it feel like a Monday. How did her nice weekend visit turn into this? “Kouga, if you’d just let me explain—.”

Kouga cuts her off. “You don’t have to explain anything. I know exactly what’s going on here.”

“It is evident that the one who is delusional is you, not I.”

“Excuse me?”

“Either you no longer possess your sense of smell or you are more ignorant than I initially thought.”

“What?”

“Kagome and I are together. I have come here to seek her family’s permission to court her.”

“I don’t think so,” Kouga snarls.

The instant he steps toward them, Sesshomaru positions himself before Kagome. “I will grant you a single warning.”

“You’re the one who needs a warning. Stay away from Kagome!”

“No.”

“You arrogant piece of—.”

Before a brawl can break out, Kagome maneuvers around Sesshomaru and erects a barrier between the yokai. “Both of you stop!”

The pair glower at each other. Her reiki thrums, pulsing from her outreached fingertips to press against their yoki signatures. There isn’t enough force behind the barrier to cause harm. It serves as an effective way to de-escalate the situation long enough for her to speak.

“Kouga, you’re one of my closest friends. You were there for me at a time when I didn’t know where to turn. I will never be able to repay you or the pack for what you’ve done for us. That doesn’t give you the right to tell me who I can date. I didn’t invite Sesshomaru here for your approval. I choose who I date. Me. No one else. If you don’t like Sesshomaru, I will respect your opinion. I also expect you to respect mine.” Her friend crosses his arms over his chest and grunts. “Okay?”

“Yeah, fine, whatever,” Kouga grumbles.

Kagome accepts his response, petulant as it is. She knows Kouga has the best of intentions. He’s been looking out for her ever since her heart ended up in tatters. It was the one brief point in history where he and Kagura sided together— joint protection of her and mutual hatred of her crush. If Sesshomaru isn’t careful, he will meet the same ire.

She turns to him. “You’re a guest here. You won our wager which means you earned an invitation. You did not earn the right to disrespect my friends.”

“Kagome—.”

“Nope!” She silences him by raising her palm to his face. “You’ve done enough talking. It’s my turn now.”

He bows his head in acknowledgment.

“My family and my friends mean the world to me. If you are as invested in this relationship as I am, you will treat them with respect. Even if they are disrespectful to you.” She shoots a look at Kouga before lowering the barrier to take Sesshomaru’s hand. “I trust your judgment. Do you trust mine?”

“Yes.”

That single word warms her heart. They are in the early stages of their relationship. There is still so much they have yet to talk about, but Sesshomaru doesn't hesitate. His answer is sincere. Pleased, she takes his hand to lead him up the steps. “Good. Now, come with me. There are some people I want to introduce you to.”

Kouga steps aside, but Kagome feels the tension reignite between him and Sesshomaru as they pass. She can tell the animosity between the two runs deeper than territorial testosterone. Kouga has always been protective of her, especially when it comes to other guys. Clenching his jaw and curling his hands into fists isn’t anything new. Yet, Kagome gets the sense that Kouga has met Sesshomaru before, or, at the very least, is familiar with him.

“How’s the roof coming along?” she asks.

“Huh?” It takes a moment for Kouga’s focus to shift from Sesshomaru to her. “Oh, it’s good. Ginta is finishing up the last section on the east side as we speak. Wanna see?”

“Sure.” Her response is instinctive, much like Kouga’s next move.

He reaches for Kagome, intending to take her up to the roof. He’s done it countless times. That was before Kagome had a boyfriend.

The instant Kouga’s hand enters her personal space, Sesshomaru reacts. He smacks Kouga’s hand away. He steps between them, turning his back to Kouga so he can face Kagome. “Allow me.”

Before Kagome can respond, she is swept up and flying from the shrine’s entryway to the roof. She fantasized about being in Sesshomaru’s arms— just not in this context. As they leap onto the main building, Kagome peers over his shoulder. Kouga watches them with wide eyes and a tight expression. The tension increases.

“Sesshomaru?” Kagome catches the hint of a smirk forming. She sighs. “You didn’t have to provoke him.”

“I did not. I established boundaries.”

“Boundaries?” Kagome echoes in disbelief.

“Others should not touch what does not belong to them. Don’t you agree?”

She rolls her eyes. “I’ve been friends with Kouga longer than I’ve known you. That doesn’t mean you have to be jealous. We're just friends. There’s never been anything romantic between us.”

“Perhaps not from your side.”

Kagome glances over at her friend. That can’t be true, can it? Kouga would have said something. He would have—

Her mind stutters as she remembers how Kouga introduced her to his pack. He called her his woman. She didn’t appreciate the term but she didn’t correct him. Kagome thought it was a term of respect, like the way Ginta and Hakkaku refer to her as their sister. It didn’t occur to her that they do it because of Kouga. She’s glad Kagura put a stop to that term.

When Kagome’s best friend found out what Kouga was saying, she confronted him. It was the first time Kagome intervened between two rivaling yokai. The second she stepped between them, Kagura closed her fan. Unfortunately, there was too much momentum behind Kouga’s attack to stop. Kagome managed to redirect most of the blow with her reiki. She still ended up in the hospital with a broken wrist and a few bruised ribs. Kagura never forgave Kouga, but she got what she wanted. He never referred to Kagome as ‘his woman’ again.

“That was years ago,” she tells Sesshomaru.

“What passes as years for you feels like days for us.”

His remark reminds Kagome of a key difference between them— the one she’s been doing her best to avoid: their lifespans. At best, she has another seventy years. Sesshomaru has at least another millennium. If he takes her as his mate, their time together will be short. Eventually, he’ll be alone again.

“This troubles you,” he observes.

“I’m not a yokai.”

“Kagome, we have been through this.”

“I’m not talking about people opposing our relationship. I’m worried about you.”

His eyebrows arch. “Me?”

“You’ll be alone.” He blinks, perplexed by her answer. “After I…die.”

His expression softens. “That is what concerns you?” She nods. “It appears your education on yokai mating rituals was limited.”

“Huh?”

“As much as I would enjoy teaching you, I would prefer to do so in private. We will continue this discussion later.” His attention veers from her face to the pair of wolves perched on the end of the roof.

“Ginta! Hakkaku!”

“Sis, who’s this guy?”

“I’d like you to meet Sesshomaru Taisho. He’s my boyfriend.”

There is a momentary pause while Ginta and Hakkaku gape at her. They get over their shock quickly. “What? You have a boyfriend? Since when? How did this happen? Who even is this guy?”

“Not very intelligent are they?” Sesshomaru mutters.

Kagome elbows him. “Be nice.”

“I am pleased to meet you,” he states, gently setting her down.

Ginta and Hakkaku stare at each other, then look behind Sesshomaru and Kagome. “Is that true, Kouga?”

“Yeah, so?”

“But…,” the two glance at each other before turning to their pack leader, “what about you and—?”

Kouga darts around them. He claps his hand over Ginta’s mouth while glaring daggers at Hakkaku. “Stop gabbing and get to work!”

“Okay, Kouga.”

“Whatever you say.”

The two stagger off like a pair of scolded dogs with their tails between their legs.

“Ignore them,” Kouga grumbles, crossing his arms over his chest. “We’re just surprised. Kagome’s never had a boyfriend. We didn’t think she was interested in dating anyone.”

“I am not anyone,” Sesshomaru returns evenly.

Tension mounts again. Kagome intercedes before the shrine turns into a battleground. “The pack did a great job on the roof. I hardly recognize it.”

Kouga’s posture relaxes. “It took longer than we estimated. Having to work around the visitor’s schedule was harder than I thought.”

“But it beats the alternative.”

“True,” he agrees, grinning. “Your shrine wouldn’t have any patrons if they find out your contractors were demons.”

She laughs. “Probably.”

“We should finish up by the end of next week. Then we’ll be moving onto the well house.”

“Why not work in the evening, after the shrine has closed? It would limit the risk of being seen,” Sesshomaru proposes.

Kouga’s gaze hardens. “Kagome’s family lives here. I don’t think they want to hear power tools while trying to sleep.”

“If you were able to work in the evenings, how long would it take to complete the renovations?” Sesshomaru questions.

“Several weeks. A month at the most.”

“Really? For everything?” Kagome asks.

“If we don’t have to behave like humans, we can get our work much quicker,” Kouga confirms.

Kagome’s excitement causes her to momentarily forget a critical constraint. With the revised timeline established, she is reminded. “Uh, Kouga, as great as that sounds, I don’t think it will work.”

“Huh? Why not?”

“Because…well,” she avoids Sesshomaru’s gaze, “I can’t pay for the accelerated work. I can only afford to pay in the installments we already agreed upon.”

“I will handle it.”

She whips around. “I couldn’t possibly! That money is yours. It wouldn’t be fair.”

“It is my money. The fairest option would be to allow me to choose how I wish to allocate my funds.”

“Right.” It isn’t until Kagome speaks that she recognizes her mistake.

“Then we agree. I will finance the renovations.”

“No. Wait, that’s not—.”

Kouga scoffs. “You’re serious?”

“Do you take issue with my money?” Sesshomaru questions.

“No.”

“Well, I do!” Kagome stomps her foot. The sole of her shoe slips on the shingle and she pitches forward. Instantly, Sesshomaru loops his arm around her waist, preventing her from falling off the roof.

"That's why we don't let you work up here," Kouga comments as she steadies herself.

Kagome ignores him. “I’m not a charity case. I don’t need your pity,” she mutters begrudgingly. 

Sesshomaru drops his head to her shoulder. “This is not pity or a sense of obligation. It is customary amongst inuyokai to prove they can provide for their mates. Most clans view this as an initial step in courting.”

“Dating doesn’t work that way.”

“No? Then how do you explain dinner yesterday evening?”

Kagome flushes. She insisted on paying. When Sesshomaru objected, she told him it was part of dating. He wasn’t convinced until she promised he could do the same later on. That time came sooner than expected.

“I only wish to see to your needs as you have seen to mine.” He holds her gaze until she gives in.

“Fine,” Kagome sighs in defeat, “but no more expensive dinners out. We’re staying in for a while.”

“As you wish. Cooking at home is a far more intimate experience than eating in public.”

“Can’t be that intimate with Kagura hanging around,” Kouga comments. 

“Why would Kagura be at Sesshomaru’s house?” 

Her friend jolts. “You’ve been to his house?”

“Yeah.”

“Alone?”

“Naturally,” Sesshomaru says. 

“Aren’t you moving too fast?” 

Hearing Kouga echo last night’s question strikes a chord with Kagome. She realizes that the pace of their relationship doesn’t matter. What is important is how Sesshomaru and her feel. There is no need to slow down if they are both comfortable with how things are progressing. She’s never cared what other people thought before. Why start now? 

“No,” she tells Kouga, lacing her fingers through Sesshomaru’s. “We’re perfectly in sync.” 

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Introductions have held significance in Sesshomaru’s life. His upbringing demanded that he make a lasting first impression. Initially, the necessity was born from etiquette and survival. He could not merely be polite. Sesshomaru had to command the room and demonstrate his power without invoking his yoki or raising his sword. While most others relied on words, he chose to speak through action.

Over the centuries, his strategy served him well. He plans to apply the same logic here.

Kagome divulged several insightful tips about her family during their conversations. Sesshomaru leveraged it to purchase a gift for each of them. It is customary for clans to exchange gifts during the courting process. The tokens symbolize repayment for what the clan is losing by giving their heir away. Additionally, they serve as an indication that the clans can provide for their new member.

Sesshomaru is not certain if Kagome or her family are aware of this. Regardless, he will uphold tradition. He intends to follow through on every courting practice known to him. He will do anything to ensure Kagome agrees to be his mate.

Even if it means briefly leaving her.

He excuses himself to retrieve the gifts from the car. Separating from Kagome is a challenge. Sesshomaru anticipated the pack’s interference but their proximity is worse than he assumed. The wolves have integrated themselves into her life. They see Kagome almost as often as her roommate. Miss Naraku is not the only obstacle he must face. The sooner Sesshomaru can persuade the wolves to complete their work, the better. 

As Sesshomaru steps away, the weight of the Yoro clan leader’s gaze is upon him. Kagome may not recognize her companion’s feelings but Sesshomaru is acutely aware of it. Kouga’s resentment is born of regret. The wolf considered himself Kagome’s suitor. Sesshomaru’s sudden appearance shattered that illusion.

This too was expected. Sesshomaru is conscious of her allure. There is not a single soul Kagome has come into contact with that she has not impacted in some form or fashion. Sesshomaru is reminded daily of how she’s altered his life. He hopes that, in time, Kagome will view him in the same light.

Carefully, he removes the gifts. Sesshomaru hid them in the trunk to prevent Kagome from scolding him. She insisted presents weren’t necessary. Sesshomaru disagrees. He refuses to meet his future in-laws empty-handed.

When he returns to the top of the shrine steps, Kagome is waiting for him. Her arms are folded in front of her as she leans against the torii gate. “Why am I not surprised?”

“It is tradition.”

She sighs and pushes off the post. “Candies would have been fine.”

“That is an adequate gift for a friend or colleague. It is not sufficient for my introduction to your family.”

“You’re already helping us with the shrine.”

“That is not a gift,” he admits.

Kagome’s brow creases. “You said it wasn’t charity.”

“I would like the renovations completed as soon as possible so you are free to spend time with me.”

Her cheeks color. “That’s…sweet but also kind of sneaky.”

“I prefer clever.”

Kagome laughs, shaking her head.

“Shall we?”

“Yeah,” she agrees, taking one do the gift boxes from him. “Everyone is inside. Mama made tea.”

The Higurashi household is unlike any dwelling Sesshomaru has ever encountered. It sits apart from the shrine. A rickety old fence serves as the diving line. The barrier is unnecessary. There is a clear distinction between the sacred grounds and this home. With its plain walls and garish green shutters, the two-story building looks out of place next to the ancient architecture.

“That’s my room.” Kagome indicates a balcony on the second story.

“Do you stay here often?”

“Not really. I usually only spend the night if I’m too tired to take the metro back.”

Sesshomaru is relieved. He has enough obstacles to overcome.

“If Gramps says anything rude, just ignore him. He is stubborn.”

“A family trait?”

She rolls her eyes in an attempt to hide her smile. “It took forever for him to warm up to Kagura, but, eventually, he came around.”

“How long did it take him to accept the wolves?”

Her smile falters. “Uh, well…he hasn’t yet. But he will!”

Sesshomaru is conflicted. He is pleased to learn that Kagome’s grandfather does not appreciate the Yoro clan’s presence. However, it stands to reason, the same apprehension will apply to him. Given the nature of his relationship with Kagome, it is likely her grandfather will never approve.

“Don’t worry,” she reassured him. “Everything will be fine. Mama and Souta will love you.”

Her use of that particular four-letter word gives him pause. It is far too soon for such feelings to have developed, yet Sesshomaru cannot deny how pleasant it sounds. He hopes to hear Kagome say that word again in the future.

“This is it. Ready?” Kagome prompts at the doorway.

Sesshomaru nods.

She slides open the door and he follows her inside.

The interior of the Higurashi household is mediocre. It is not decorated with priceless artwork like his mother’s ancestral home, nor is it outfitted with opulence the way his father’s home is. Kagome’s childhood home follows a standard configuration. There are a handful of rooms on the main floor and a staircase leading to the bed chambers upstairs. It is slightly larger than he anticipated though not by much.

“In here,” Kagome directs him to the sitting room.

He rounds the corner to meet her curious family members. Sesshomaru notes that Kagome’s mother and brother share her eyes. The color is different- brown instead of blue —but the shape is the same. They are wide and interested. This look is not mirrored by her grandfather who regards Sesshomaru with unbridled disdain.

“This is Sesshomaru Taisho, CEO of Taisho Enterprises,” Kagome gestures to him. “Sesshomaru, this is my family: Mama, Souta, and Gramps.”

He bows. “It is an honor to meet you. I am grateful for the invitation to your home.”

Kagome’s mother smiles kindly. “It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Taisho. Thank you for taking such good care of Kagome.”

“My pleasure. Please call me Sesshomaru.”

At this, Kagome’s grandfather mutters under his breath. He speaks too low for the others to notice, but Sesshomaru hears his comment. Arrogant daiyokai.

It’s not unlike Kagome’s remark, though the tone is drastically different. She spoke in jest. Her grandfather intends to insult and discourage him. His attempt is in vain. Sesshomaru will not be swayed. He has made his choice.

Draping his arm around Kagome’s shoulders, he adds, “Though we began dating recently, I hope you can accept our relationship. I understand it may appear unorthodox given our backgrounds.”

“That doesn’t matter,” Kagome’s mother says, waving her hand. “It doesn’t matter what you do for a living, where you live, or where you come from. What’s important is that you make each other happy and treat each other well.”

“I could not agree more.”

“So you’re dating your boss? Is that even allowed?” Kagome’s brother asks.

The question causes her to blush profusely. “It’s not like that—.”

“Kagome does not report to me. Regardless, I have taken the necessary precautions with HR. I would never do anything to jeopardize Kagome’s career,” Sesshomaru assures her family.

“You’ve put a lot of thought into this,” Kagome’s mother comments.

Her grandfather mumbles about how the Sesshomaru should have thought well enough to leave Kagome alone. Sesshomaru ignores him. This old man will not deter him from making a good impression on the rest of the family.

Kagome’s mother indicates two place settings. “Please sit. I’ve prepared tea and biscuits for us.”

They kneel at the table. “Thank you. That is very considerate. I can see who Kagome inherited her compassion from.”

“Oh, I can’t take credit for that. Kagome has always been conscious of others. Even as a child she always offered to lend a hand to those in need, myself included.” Her mother’s smile is warm as she looks at her daughter. “I don’t know what we’d do without her.”

“It would be a lot quieter.”

“Souta!” Kagome’s mother chides.

“What?” He makes a face. “It would. We wouldn’t have all these guys hanging around.”

Sesshomaru stiffens.

Kagome’s mother frowns. “Kouga and his crew are here to help with the renovations.”

“It’s not just him. What about that guy who followed her around in middle school, Hojo Ueda? Or that other guy, Inu—.”

Kagome stretches across the table to slap her hand over Souta’s mouth. “That’s enough of that! Unless you want to start talking about your friends. Maybe I should call Hitomi and invite her over?”

Souta’s face turns red as he shifts backward. “W-why would you call her?”

“Oh, I don’t know,” Kagome feigns innocence. “Maybe because you have a crush on her?”

“I do not!”

“Yeah, you do,” she insists, snatching up one of the cookies.

“She’s just a friend and even if she wasn’t, so what? Why do you care who I have a crush on?”

“I don’t. So why do you care if my friends come to visit the shrine? They’re just friends, like Hitomi.”

“Even Sesshomaru?” Souta questions with a cheeky grin.

“No, that’s different.” Kagome corrects. “Sesshomaru isn’t my friend. He’s my boyfriend.”

“So did you bring him home because you two are going to get married?”

Kagome’s confidence evaporates instantly. She stammers, uneasily. “No…well, kind of but— it’s not the same— we’re…uh…”

Sesshomaru takes her hand. “I asked Kagome if we could begin dating with that in mind so I would appreciate it if you would accept our relationship.”

Kagome’s mother looks to her father-in-law, then to her son. There is a pause as they process what he shared. When her focus returns to Sesshomaru, he sees surprise in her eyes but it only lasts a moment before she is smiling again. “Thank you for seeking our approval but it is not our choice to make. Kagome is her own person. If she wishes to be with you, then we will support her decision.” She shoots a pointed look at Kagome’s grandfather. “Isn’t that right?”

He does not reply.

Kagome leans forward, her brow creased with worry. “Gramps?”

“I don’t like it,” he grumbles with an annoyed huff, “but I’m not the one marrying him.”

“You approve?” Kagome hedges.

“Barely,” Gramps says. “Now, you listen here, demon.” He points a finger at Sesshomaru. “If anything happens to my granddaughter, I’ll blame you. If you want my blessing, you are to take care of her. If I find out differently, I will seal you up in the Bone Eater’s Well until the end of time. Got it?” He digs into the pocket of his robes and pulls out a stack of ofudas. “Do you understand?”

“Perfectly,” Sesshomaru responds.

“Good.”

“As a token of our first meeting, and a sign of my commitment to Kagome, I have brought these.” Sesshomaru hands out the gifts he purchased.

Souta grabs his excitedly. “Presents?”

“Indeed.”

Kagome’s grandfather is less enthusiastic. He eyes his parcel warily.

“How thoughtful,” Kagome’s mother comments as she unwraps her gift.

Hers is the smallest of the three. When determining what best suited Kagome’s mother, Sesshomaru decided the gift should be something the woman needs but will never request. Like Kagome, Mrs. Higurashi has spent her life tending to others. What she requires is time for herself.

“Oh my,” Kagome’s mother gasps. “A day pass to Narak Spa.”

“My mother speaks very highly of their services. Please feel free to treat yourself.”

“Thank you, Sesshomaru.”

“Wow! New cleats and shin guards!” Souta holds up his brand-name athletic wear.

“Your sister tells me you’re one of the best players on the school team. Hard work should be rewarded,” Sesshomaru tells him.

“I’m going to put them on now.” He gathers up the package and stands up. When he gets to the door, he pauses, “Thanks, oniisan.”

As they watch him run off, everyone around the table smiles. “Well, you’ve certainly won Souta over,” Kagome remarks.

“I hope he will put them to good use.”

“I’m sure he’s calling his friends right now to come over and play,” Kagome’s mother says.

Kagome turns to her grandfather. “Aren’t you going to open yours, Gramps?”

“Fine.” Carefully, he peels away the packaging to reveal a miniature tree. “Is this…a Dragon’s Blood bonsai?”

“You have a keen eye,” Sesshomaru confirms. "Legend says the sap from this tree can cure any disease and be used to seal and heal wounds."

The family elder holds the potted plant up, inspecting the layered branches. “These are exceptionally rare. Even my friends within the horticultural society have only ever seen one. None of them own a single seedling.”

“Kagome mentioned you’ve been raising bonsai for over a decade. I believed this would be a valuable addition to your collection.”

Her grandfather’s eyes filled with tears. “This is a very generous gift. Thank you. I will cherish it always.”

“I am certain you will.”

After winning Kagome’s grandfather over, their afternoon proceeds without issue. He informs her mother and grandfather about Taisho Enterprises. They inquire about his family, commenting on how well he was raised based on his manners alone. It surprises them to learn that his parents are separated. Mrs. Higurashi offers to host them at different times to avoid confrontation.

In the afternoon, Sesshomaru offers to work with the wolf pack, while Kagome helps her mother prepare lunch. He doubts the Yoro clan will accept his help. Unlike Kagome’s grandfather, they have not accepted him. Their opinion matters little. The only people Sesshomaru is concerned about impressing are the members of the Higurashi family. Fortunately, the youngest one is eager to become friends.

Souta breaks off the game with his friends to join Sesshomaru. He asks a myriad of questions ranging from how old he is, to the type of concealment charms he uses, and what his favorite sport is. Sesshomaru humors him. He has limited experience with pups but finds Souta’s inquisitive nature amusing. It reminds him of Kagome.

As they near the work site, Kouga shouts down to them. “Oui, Souta, what are you doing hanging out with this guy?”

“Why wouldn’t I? Sesshomaru is going to be my big brother.”

The mongrel gapes at them. “Huh?”

“He’s going to marry Sis.”

The other two pop up, wearing bewildered expressions. “What? Sis is getting married?”

“Yeah, and he’s a soccer fan too. Look what he got me!” Souta models his new cleats for them.

Sesshomaru may have exaggerated his fascination with the sport. However, considering how happy it makes Souta, he decides to take in a few matches. Perhaps he could pass a local game off as an activity for one of his upcoming team outing meetings. Kill two combatants with one strike…

Kouga quips. “Is that how you won her over? Expensive gifts?”

“If you have to ask, you do not know her as you should,” Sesshomaru remarks. “Kagome is uninterested in material things. She prefers shared experiences.”

“Like renovating the shrine?” Souta asks.

“Precisely. Which is why I am here. I would like to offer my assistance,” Sesshomaru tells the wolf pack.

The trio exchange skeptical glances before their leader replies, “What can you do?”

Sesshomaru has been lenient. He gave the wolf pack ample opportunities to correct their behavior. They did not. He will not tolerate their disrespect.

He positions himself in front of Souta and advises the boy to stay behind him. Sesshomaru gathers a stack of shingles. With a single push off the ground, he leaps onto the roof. Sesshomaru snatches a set of tools from the wolves. He takes his time to adhere the first shingle. Once he is comfortable with the application, he continues to apply the rest until the stack has been depleted. The entire process takes him less than five minutes.

Straightening up, Sesshomaru faces Kouga. “I trust my work is satisfactory.”

The pack leader is too shocked to form a response.  

“That was awesome!” Souta cheers from below. “You move so fast— like a superhero! You could solve crimes and clean up the city.”

Sesshomaru wonders how the boy would react if he revealed his nightly activities. It would certainly improve his standing with Souta, though he doubts Kagome would be pleased. She is protective of her family. Sesshomaru understands. He feels the same about his mother.

“With Sesshomaru’s help, you’ll be done in no time, Kouga.”

Souta’s vote of confidence makes it impossible for the Yoro clan to deny him. The tension is palpable. To alleviate the strain, Sesshomaru focuses on the north end of the building. His companions keep to the other side. He does not mind.

Sesshomaru works in silence for the rest of the morning, only breaking when Kagome calls him for lunch. He does not partake of the meal she and her mother prepare. Sesshomaru merely takes advantage of this opportunity to sit as close to Kagome as possible. The wolves may not appreciate his proximity but no one else is offended by it.

“You’re working so hard on your day off,” Kagome says.

“I prefer this view to the one in my office.”

“It is nice, isn’t it?” She glances around the shrine. A content smile blossoms on her face as she takes in the handful of patrons meandering around. “I wish more people appreciated this place.”

“They will. Once the renovations are done, I am certain your numbers will increase,” Sesshomaru tells her.

Kagome leans back on her palms. “I hope so.”

“Don’t worry, Sis. Sesshomaru is like the Flash. He’ll have this place fixed up in no time.”

She laughs. “Well, you’ve certainly won Souta over. Having him compare you to a superhero is high praise.”

Sesshomaru inclines his head toward Kagome’s brother. “I will strive to meet your expectations.”

“Hey, aren’t you forgetting about us? What are we, chopped liver?” Kouga grouses.

“You’re alright. You can be Sesshomaru’s sidekick, like Wally West,” Souta suggests.

The wolf straightens up. “Wally who?”

“It’s a comic book character,” Kagome explains. “He may not be the protagonist but he has a huge fan following. You should take it as a compliment, Kouga.”

This appears to appease the wolf. He settles into his seat. “Okay.”

Kagome changes the subject to the upcoming Spring Festival.

While she discusses the preparations with her mother and grandfather, Souta turns to Sesshomaru. “Do you need help with the roof?”

The question catches Sesshomaru off-guard. Though he possesses expertise in countless areas of life, no one has approached him for guidance. He is unsure where to begin.

As a pup, the only abilities his father was interested in were combative ones. Sesshomaru learned survival skills from his mother’s staff— Akio, the cook, Kenzi, the head of the guard, and Una, the maid. He owes them a debt of thanks. Teaching Souta would be a way of honoring them.

“I can show you the craft as long as your mother permits it,” he says, seeking out Mrs. Higurashi.

“Just be safe.”

“We will,” Souta promises.

Kagome leans over, cupping her hand to Sesshomaru’s ear. “Are you sure about this?”

“Familial bonding is greatly improved through experiences such as this.”

She presses her forehead against his shoulder. “Thank you.”

Sesshomaru wraps his arm around her. They sit like that for the remainder of the meal, bound together in touch and intention. 

Chapter Text

“You’re staring.”

“I know.”

“You don’t have to worry. We won’t maul him.” Kouga half-chuckles, half-scoffs. “You’d never forgive us.”

“Nope.”

“Right, so my point is you can stop staring.”

“Okay.”

“Kags?”

“Hmmm?”

“You’re still staring.”

“I know.”

“It’s getting kind of creepy.”

“I know.” And Kagome does know. She knows it’s inappropriate to be ogling while surrounded by her friends and family, especially at the shrine. Sesshomaru is her boyfriend. They made things official yesterday. There is no need for her to be gawking like some middle schooler with a crush. She knows all this, yet she can’t stop herself.

In all the scenarios Kagome considered, she never pictured Sesshomaru taking Souta under his wing. She certainly never thought Souta would warm up to the daiyokai as fast as he has. It’s strange but oddly endearing to watch.

Souta has never been interested in the shrine. He isn’t disrespectful of their heritage. He’s indifferent. They might as well have grown up in an apartment like their classmates. Souta views the shrine as a neighboring property to the house as opposed to an extension of their home. The only connection he has to the property is the constant list of chores he must perform.

Today, however, he is engaged and excited. He stands next to Sesshomaru and watches how the daiyokai slices some of the shingles in half to line the end of the roof. Sesshomaru moves slowly, instructing Souta about each step in the process. Every once in a while, he glances up to catch Kagome’s eye. Each time, she blushes, embarrassed to be caught, but even that doesn’t stop her.

Kouga sighs, shaking his head. “I’ve never seen you this way. Not even with him.”

They both know who Kouga is referring to. “This is different,” she tells him.

“I know.” He sighs again, scratching the back of his neck. “I just don’t want you to get hurt again. Last time—.”

“Last time it was a school-girl crush. This isn’t.”

“No?” Kouga crosses his arms over his chest, his chin jutting out in a challenge. “How do you know?”

“Because this is real.”

“And what you felt before wasn’t?”

“I wasn’t in love. Not real love, anyway,” she explains. “I was in love with the idea of being in love. This is different. I know how I feel about Sesshomaru and, more importantly, how he feels about me.”

Kouga is quiet for a moment. Kagome doesn’t need to look at him to know the kind of face he’s making. Kouga is many things— rash, loud, stubborn, loyal, energetic, and optimistic to a fault. Most of all he is fiercely protective of his pack. Kagome and her family are included in that.

When Kouga started Hidden Village, Kagome latched onto the opportunity to help. She was recovering from a low point in her life. Being included in a positive atmosphere— one where they were giving, not taking —was what she needed. She never imagined how successful the foundation would become.

At first, the only demons who came were other wolf yokai. There were members of disbanded or incomplete packs, loners who needed a place to call home, and even a few orphans. She remembers each of their faces. Kagome may not know them by name but she knows them. She knows how long they struggled on the outskirts of society, how deprived they were. Hidden Village gave them a second chance. Kouga changed their lives.

He changed her life.

Kagome had to have other part-time jobs in college. Her family couldn’t afford to send her to Uni. None of them left a lasting impression. She was only there to earn a paycheck.

Hidden Village was different. The foundation became a haven for yokai and hanyos. Not only did Kouga and his pack shelter those who sought help.  He also taught them how to survive in the modern world. He partnered with a kitsune tribe to provide each member with a concealment charm.

Kouga helped them blend into the human-dominated world. His partnership with the kitsunes granted him access to charms normally unavailable to yokai existing outside the kitsune clans. However, physical appearance was only one aspect of fitting in. Kouga brought them halfway. Kagome provided the other half.

She taught classes on how to assimilate into human culture. Explaining the intricacies of human life posed a challenge. Many yokai didn’t understand how limited humans were. Kagome found ways to demonstrate the variance between their kinds. She used vision-impacting goggles, noise-canceling headphones, and even brought a few demons into a sensory deprivation tank so they could experience life as a human.

A few were horrified. Most gained a newfound respect. The rest fell somewhere in between. Regardless of the results, Kagome found her students were far more engaged after the experience. It boosted their understanding. Her discussion around the differences between their kinds became filled with empathy versus animosity.  

She focused her lessons on how to tailor— not alter —behaviors and customs to become an approachable member of human society. The more Kagome explained, the more her students realized how similar they were. The lines dividing them— clans, abilities, territories, etc. —were erased. they no longer saw themselves as enemies but as allies banding together to seize the same opportunity for survival.

This was Kagome’s most significant success. It took her time to realize that while she needed Hidden Village, Kouga also needed her. The foundation wouldn’t have gained recognition without her. Especially since Kagome convinced her family to hold a fundraiser at the shrine.

Kouga never forgot their kindness. He and the pack would have done the renovations for cost but Kagome insisted on paying them. She knew what the money meant for Hidden Village.

Kouga’s construction company was established to serve as a steady stream of funding for the foundation. Additionally, it provided an opportunity for employment to skilled workers. Kagome refused to interrupt that flow.

“You’re serious then,” Kouga says, drawing her back into their conversation. “You love him?”

“Not yet, but it feels like that’s where this is going,” she admits.

Kouga kicks a pebble across the yard. “I kinda figured. You’ve always brought your projects home but from where I’m standing, he doesn’t look like he needs the help.”

“Projects?” Kagoke questions.

He snorts. “You know what I mean. Kagura, me, Shippo, Soten, Jinenji, mutt-face—.”

She glares at him.

“—that guy,” he revises. “We were all broken. You took us in. You helped us get back on our feet. You saved us.”

“I didn’t save you. You were doing fine on your own. You just needed a friend.”

Kouga scoffs and stretches his arms above his head. “If you say so. I won’t speak for anyone else, but I know the guys and I were struggling. Me more than them. I was angry. There I was, the youngest pack leader in a millennium, and I couldn’t take care of my people. Do you know how it made me feel? Useless, weak, terrible. I felt terrible, Kags. I was lost. Then I met you— someone I was ready to fight simply because you were different —and you know what you did?”

“Fought back?” she teases.

He shakes his head. “You portioned out the contents of your lunchbox so each of us would have an equal share. You didn’t care the boys and I were yokai and dirt poor. You saw someone in need and helped. Do you want to know why? Because that’s the kind of person you are. You help people, whether they deserve it or not.”

Kagome releases a nervous laugh. “You make me sound like some sort of saint. I did what anyone else would do.”

“Yeah, right. Can you see Kagura or one of your human friends doing that?”

“I guess not.”

“Exactly,” Kouga returns, dropping his hands to her shoulders so they’re facing each other. “That’s what makes you special.”

Kagome gets the sense he’s not just talking about sharing food anymore. “Why are you telling me this?”

He closes his eyes and inhales deeply. “Look, I know this isn’t the right time but I like you. I’ve always liked you. I know you don’t have feelings for me like I do for you, but I had to tell you…at least once.”

She’s surprised to hear Kouga admit it. After Sesshomaru forced her to realize how naive she was, Kagome expected she’d have this conversation with Kouga. She just hadn’t expected to have it so soon. “Thank you for telling me. I care about you too but in a different way.”

“I know.”

Kouga looks over her shoulder at something. Kagome doesn’t have to guess what, or more specifically who. He drops his hands with a reluctant smile. “As long as we’re still friends.”

“Of course.”

“Then as your friend, can I ask you something?” 

Kagome tilts her head, expectantly.

“How do you know this is real? How do you know he isn’t just using you for your power?”

“Sesshomaru isn’t like that.”

“Are you sure? He has a reputation,” Kouga says, gazing warily at the subject of their conversation.

She rolls her eyes. “And wolf yokai don’t? You can’t always believe what others say.”

“What if you get hurt again?”

This time, it’s Kagome’s turn to sigh. “It’s a risk I’m willing to take.”

“Why?”

“I like the person I am when I’m with him. He’s changing me for the better.”

Kouga scrunches his nose. “There’s nothing wrong with you. You’re perfect the way you are.”

She shakes her head. “I’m not. No one is.”

“Well, you are,” he insists.

“It’s not like he’s trying to fix me. He’s helping me grow. Last night we sparred. It was the first time I’ve lost a fight in—.”

“Of course, you lost! That guy is twice your size and a daiyokai. He— ouch! Hey, what was that for?”

“I can take care of myself.”

“Against other humans, maybe.”

“I don’t have any issues putting you in your place,” Kagome reminds him.

“Hey, way to hit a guy when he’s down. Can you not bring that up?”

“Bring what up?”

Kagome whips around to see her brother staring up at them curiously. Sesshomaru stands next to him, looking far less amused.

Kouga ignores him to answer Souta. “It’s nothing. Your sister is just trying to prove a point.”

Kagome feels the tension build once again. It’s similar to telling when a thunderstorm is approaching. The energy in the air becomes supercharged and instinctively, she feels the need to defend herself. This time, though, Sesshomaru beats her to it.  

“She has,” he states evenly, resting his hand on her shoulder. “If you wish to have a rematch, I trust the outcome would be the same.”

“Me too,” Souta agrees.

“Yeah, yeah,” Kouga waves them off, annoyed by the hit to his pride.

Kagome turns to address Souta. “You two were at it for a while. How did it go?”

“Sesshomaru taught me to measure twice and cut once,” he tells her, before launching into a detailed explanation of all the tools and skills they covered.

“Wow.” Kagome whistles. “If you keep this up, you won’t need to go to a university. You can be a craftsman.”

“Do they make a lot of money?” Souta asks.

Sesshomaru eyes Kouga before answering, “The good ones do.”

“Be nice,” Kagome reminds him.

He scowls but listens. “You have to serve the appropriate clientele. Since the Yoro clan does most of the jobs at cost, they do not profit much.”

Kouga stares at Sesshomaru as if he just regenerated a limb.

“Naturally, they could support the community better if they performed work at the standard rate. They would be able to donate a portion of their profits to those in need. A separate fund could be established and tied to their foundation, so the revenue they generate would be linked to a non-profit, and therefore, taxed less. Of course, the wolves are too short-sighted to do this.” 

Kagome shakes her head and moves to elbow him. Sesshomaru steps around her. Before she can adjust, he pinches her side, making her jump. “Hey!” She swats him.

“I gave you one. You will not get another.”

She raises an eyebrow. “Is that a challenge?” 

“Merely a fact.” 

“Is that so? Want a rematch?”

“Are you looking to lose again?”

“I didn’t lose! I was distracted!”

Sesshomaru smirks.

“Not like that!” Kagome retorts, stomping off.

“I told you not to stare,” Kouga calls after her.

“Indeed,” Sesshomaru agrees. He follows her closely, looking rather pleased with himself. “May I inquire what has bewitched you?”

Kagome’s cheeks grow hot. “You’re a good teacher,” she admits.

“You seem surprised.”

She knew Sesshomaru was capable. Anyone in his role has to be. Kagome expected him to make a good impression on her family. She didn’t anticipate him caring for them as diligently as he cares for her. Sesshomaru is assimilating well, much better than she predicted, especially where Souta is concerned.

Kagome can tell her brother looks up to Sesshomaru. Considering his lack of male role models, it makes sense. Sesshomaru is the first person outside their family to be interested in Souta’s development. Kouga and the pack are nice to him, but Sesshomaru went a step further.

He rewarded Souta’s curiosity. Sesshomaru didn’t indulge him with false praise. He provided very clear, very strict directions. At first, Kagome thought her brother would be discouraged. Sesshomaru isn’t known for his warmth. Or his patience. Yet, Souta remained glued to his side. He was eager to absorb everything Sesshomaru shared.

It could be the cleats, but Kagome suspects Souta’s enthusiasm is due to being included. Kagura has always spoiled him. She used to buy him sweets to pacify him. Her generosity extended only so far. When Kagura wanted to talk about boys or the latest fashion trends with Kagome, she closed the door. As they grew older, Souta’s bribes morphed from candies to video games. Regardless, the outcome was always the same.

The rest of her friends are the same. No one is rude or neglectful of her family, but their main focus has always been her. No one ever considered building a deeper relationship with her brother.

Until Sesshomaru.

He spent his entire afternoon guiding Souta through the roofing process. Kagome wishes she recorded it. It would have made for a great surprise at their corporate holiday party.

“In some ways, your brother reminds me of myself.”

Now, Kagome is surprised. “Souta?” she asks in disbelief.

Sesshomaru nods. “I grew up learning the ways of the sword. My skills were harnessed for battle, not for a life of domesticity. I was taught to believe strength comes from gaining power and power was gained through combat. My father never told me an empty belly can kill you as painfully as a knife. I learned that lesson from another.”

Kagome wraps her hand around his. “You mentioned your staff before. Where are they now?”

“Deceased,” he answers.

Her throat constricts. Sesshomaru hasn’t shared all the details of Touga’s abandonment. She is not sure if it’s good or bad. On one hand, not knowing means Kagome won’t corner him outside the next board meeting. On the other, once she does find out, Kagome may do more than interrogate the jerk. One thing is sure. No matter when Sesshomaru tells her, she’ll be there. Kagome will listen, she’ll cry, and she’ll hold his hand the way she’s doing right now. She won’t let him suffer the memories alone.

“They sound like wonderful people. I wish I could have met them.”

“They would have approved of you,” he returns.

“I could have done my version of familial bonding,” Kagome says with a grin.

“They were not blood relations.”

“They were still your family. Being related doesn’t necessarily make you family. Look at Kagura and me. We’re not related. We’re not even the same species, but I would take a bullet for her.”

“No.”

She laughs. “It’s a metaphor.”

“My stance remains unchanged.”

“So does mine,” Kagome insists. “Kagura is my sister. I’d do anything for her and she’d do anything for me. There’s no blood between us. There doesn’t have to be. It’s the same for you and the yokai who raised you. They were the family you needed, the ones who truly loved you.”

Sesshomaru glances over his shoulder. “Yours cares for you a great deal as well, especially your brother. He admires you.”

“Well, I’m no Barry Allen, but I guess having this is pretty cool,” she replies, lifting her free hand to show sparks of reiki igniting between her fingertips.

“Souta admires your commitment to your family. He may not appear aware of everything that transpired on these grounds but he is. He is quite intuitive. A family trait?”

“Probably,” Kagome muses. 

They fall silent as they stand at the shrine gateway. Kagome can see the skyscrapers downtown. If it were nighttime, she’d be able to identify Taisho Enterprises. Their office building may not be Tokyo’s tallest, but it is decorated with a unique light pattern making it the most recognizable structure in the skyline. 

Kagome has stood at the top of these steps more times than she can count. Having the shrine at her back and the cityscape laid out before her reminds Kagome of the two worlds she straddles. When she’s here, it feels as though she exists somewhere between them. Sometimes it feels like a trap. The pressure of having to choose one over the other weighs on her. Other times, like today, Kagome gets the sense there is another option. She doesn’t have to move forward or backward. She can continue to walk the line between both. 

At least now, she won’t be walking alone. 

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The sun has begun its descent over the city, casting an orange hue over the shrine grounds. Sesshomaru watches the buildings change color as the light shifts. It highlights the newly installed roof. Unlike their counterparts, these tiles are smooth and shiny. They have not yet weathered a storm.

The same can be said about Sesshomaru’s relationship.

He anticipated her family would have reservations. It is natural for them to be wary. As the first suitor Kagome brought home, they were curious. As a daiyokai entering their sacred ground, concern was warranted.

Sesshomaru knows inviting himself was a bold move. He also knows this particular decision is out of character. Never before has Sesshomaru entered an arrangement he did not know the outcome of. Visiting the Higurashi shrine had the potential to be disastrous.

The early stages of any relationship are precarious. His involvement with Kagome has the added layer of prejudice and perceived incompatibility. As with other obstacles, Sesshomaru chose to face this challenge head-on. He strategized that the most successful way to gain approval was to display a united front— the sooner, the better. He merely opted to not disclose how soon.

No matter how accepting her family is, Sesshomaru doubts they would welcome him if they knew he and Kagome officially started dating yesterday. He recognizes his impatience. It is difficult not to be eager when he is certain this is what he desires. Why prolong the inevitable? They plan to become mates. Everything he does now is in pursuit of that future.

More importantly, there is his father’s ultimatum to consider. Touga is predictably unpredictable. Everything from crafting battle strategies to managing personal affairs has been done per his wishes. At times, Sesshomaru suspects his father is unaware of what those are. Touga’s preferences shift like the weather. It is not always clear what he wants.

Sesshomaru supposes they are somewhat similar in this regard. His decisions were predictable until recently. Once Kagome entered his life, that changed. His single-minded focus shifted from work to her. Now, instead of strategizing how to increase their market share, he is concerned about strengthening his bond with Kagome.

Those she holds in her heart are as sacred to her as the ground he stands upon. Her family is the foundation. Sesshomaru requires their approval to protect his mate’s happiness. Kagome may not agree but he knows any friction between them will wear on her. If left unresolved, the friction will cause one or more ties to snap. Sesshomaru refuses to risk it. He succeeded in making a good first impression. Maintaining it will be the real test.

“It is a stunning view, isn’t it?”

“Mrs. Higurashi.”

Kagome’s mother smiles. “You grew up well. Our family has never been one for formality. You must be surprised, considering our history.”

“A knowledge of proper etiquette does not always equate to a proper person. I do not judge solely based upon how one speaks, but how they conduct themselves.”

“A wise choice.”

“Indeed.”

“And not your only one,” Kagome’s mother remarks, glancing across the yard at her daughter.

Sesshomaru follows her gaze. Kagome is in the process of saying goodbye to her grandfather. Souta stands next to him, chatting away, his hands moving as he speaks.

“I hope you understand my father-in-law means well. Losing his wife and son at the same time was extremely painful. He has struggled with change ever since. It’s why Kagome chose to attend a nearby university. Even though she wanted independence, she couldn’t bear to upset him.”

“She has always placed others before herself.”

Kagome’s mother nods. “I know this might not mean much coming from me, but from the first moment I held her in my arms, I knew she was different from other children— special. She always possessed compassion for others. That isn’t to say Kagome doesn’t lose her temper from time to time, but when it comes down to what really matters, she is always there. I don’t know how much of that is her and how much of it is her abilities.” 

“You believe her reiki compels her to be kind?”

“My mother-in-law was also gifted, though not to the extent Kagome was. If she hadn’t been killed in a car accident, she would have been able to help Kagome. My father-in-law and I did the best we could but I question if it was enough.” She sighs, staring at her daughter. “I still don’t know.” 

“You did wonderfully. Kagome grew up to be an accomplished woman with a keen intuition. She sees the light in others, even if they cannot see it within themselves. A skill such as that is honed by choice, not gifted by a spiritual relic. The Shikon Jewel has had many names and it has served many masters. Others leveraged its power for personal gain. I doubt Kagome ever considered that. She does not know how to be selfish.” 

“I think you may be right,” Mrs. Higurashi replies, “which is why I’d like to ask something of you, Sesshomaru.” 

He faces the woman, wondering if he spoke out of turn. Was he overly confident in his assessment of their first meeting? Perhaps, Sesshomaru has not earned her approval at all. 

“Please take care of Kagome.”

“Pardon?”

“I always knew the day would come when she would find someone to spend her days with. I’m glad Kagome chose you.”

“Even though I am a daiyokai?”

“Yokai, hanyo, human— what someone is doesn’t matter. Who they are does. You will fight for Kagome, even if it means going against what she says. You don’t let Kagome have her way simply because you care for her. You’d rather risk her anger than her well-being. You prioritize her above all else, including your personal comfort.”

Sesshomaru arches an eyebrow. It appears his assistant is not the only perceptive human in Tokyo.

“Coming here couldn’t have been easy for you. I remember how nervous I was when I met my in-laws. I didn’t sleep the night before. I broke a heel running to catch the bus. I almost missed my stop trying to fix it and ended up forgetting their gift on the seat. By the time I arrived, I was so flustered I could barely introduce myself.”

“You managed,” Sesshomaru points out.

“I did because I had Kagome’s father with me. I don’t think I would have made it through that day if he hadn’t been there holding my hand.” She blinks back tears and gazes at her daughter. “The most courageous thing you can do in life is love someone. It’s a challenge to open yourself up, to expose the deepest parts of yourself to another. Being vulnerable is scary. I won’t lie. You can never be sure if the person you share yourself with will accept you or not. But having someone who does accept you and is willing to share themselves in return— there is nothing more fulfilling.” Kagome’s mother pats him on the shoulder. “I’m glad you decided to be brave.”

“I could say the same to you,” Sesshomaru responds, bowing his head.

She folds her hands in front of her. “Next time you visit, stay for dinner. We’d be happy to have you join us.” 

“I look forward to it.”

Kagome’s mother gifts him another smile and then joins the rest of her family as they say goodbye to Kagome. Sesshomaru observes. They do not shy away from affection. Hugs are exchanged as easily as words. He understands why Kagome is so honest about her feelings. She grew up in a home where emotions were prioritized over wealth and power. He suspects she will raise their pups with the same values.

Sesshomaru sighs and closes his eyes. It is much too soon to consider raising a family. There are many things he and Kagome must discuss before the topic of pups comes up. The most critical item is Touga’s ultimatum.

Kagome told him she would wait until he was ready. Sesshomaru is uncertain if he ever will be. Unveiling the truth could prove to be a storm their new relationship cannot weather.

He opens his eyes to study the roof once more. Sesshomaru is confident in his application. He knows the shingles will hold. He is less certain of his abilities as a partner. The majority of his days have been filled with solo pursuits. He rarely considers the needs of others.

The one exception is his mother. Tending to her is the most selfless action he has ever taken. He wonders if it can be considered as such. After all, most would claim he was propelled by a sense of duty. Can duty and love be considered the same? 

“Hey, are you ready to get going?” Kagome asks as she strolls over.

“Yes.”

He bids goodbye to her family and the Yoro clan. Tension remains between him and the wolves but it has lessened considerably. He has Souta to thank. Sesshomaru wonders how upset Kagome would be if he purchased her brother a new gaming system.

“I can’t believe you and Souta finished the roof! It would have taken another week for Kouga and the guys to do,” she remarks as they descend the steps to the street.

“It would not have been possible if there were more patrons. Luck was on our side today.”

Kagome’s cheeks redden. “Oh, it wasn’t luck.”

Sesshomaru peers over the car at her. “No?”

She laces her fingers together and extends her arms overhead, stretching before getting in. “I closed the shrine for a private event. I figured you had enough to deal with.”

“Cunning.”

“You’re not the only one with a knack for strategy,” Kagome replies with a wink.

He smirks. “As I recall, you claim to be a strong Shogi player. Since the renovations are ahead of schedule, you are free tomorrow, correct?”

“I am but…,” she trails off, chewing on her lower lip.

Her hesitation makes him uneasy. Sesshomaru waits to put the car in gear. 

“I haven’t seen Kagura much lately. She wanted to have dinner together last night but we already had plans. I was thinking of spending tomorrow with her,” Kagome reveals. “Could we postpone our match until Monday? I’ll make dinner.”

He relaxes. She is merely worried about her roommate. Though Sesshomaru is disappointed, the opportunity to have Kagome alone in his home again is enticing. “We can prepare the meal together,” he suggests.

“Great! Just tell me what you want and I’ll pick up the ingredients on my way over.”

“We will be departing from the same location. Why not leave together?”

“We can’t! What if someone sees us?”

Sesshomaru scowls. She makes a valid point. If Mr. Ueda already noticed his interest in Kagome, it is only a matter of time before others do too. Their disclosure with HR will protect them legally. Unfortunately, it will not prevent anyone from contacting the media outlets. Scandals spread like wildfire. Sesshomaru refuses to allow something as meaningless as workplace gossip to damage his relationship.

“I will retrieve you from your apartment,” he decides.

“That’s a great idea! No one else from the office lives in my neighborhood.” She beams at him, pleased with the compromise.

Satisfied, Sesshomaru guides the vehicle away from the curb. As anticipated, the traffic is heavy. Saturday night means an influx of vehicles, especially as they enter the downtown area. He maintains an appropriate distance between himself and the other drivers. The pace is sluggish. Sesshomaru suspects he could outrun his car if he were in his true form. Yet, he abides by the speed limit. The passenger seat holds precious cargo and he is in no rush to drop her off.

“How do you usually spend your weekends?” Kagome asks. 

“I hunt.”

Her eyes go wide. “Every weekend?”

“Not usually. It is rare for rogue yokai to enter my territory.”

“Your reputation proceeds you.”

“Indeed.”

“If you aren’t hunting, what do you do? Work?”

“Usually.”

Kagome rolls her eyes. “That’s so boring.”

Amused, Sesshomaru questions, “What do you think I should do?”

“Not work!” she insists. “You already work more than any other CEO. You deserve a break.”

“I believe I did today.”

“Manual labor is not a break.”

“No, but spending time with you is.” Her cheeks turn the delicious color of pink he has grown so fond of. “I enjoyed meeting your family.”

“They like you too, even Gramps,” Kagome responds.

“I suppose the wolf was correct. Bribery works.”

She leans across the center console to gently rest her hand on his forearm. “Don’t listen to Kouga! He’s just mad because Souta likes you better.”

“He is not the only one,” Sesshomaru returns.

The color of her cheeks darkens. “That’s true.”

He takes her hand. “I meant your grandfather. Based on your warnings, I expected to purchase an entire greenhouse of bonsai before he accepted me.”

She laughs. “You can thank Mama. Gramps may be stubborn but he won’t go against her.”

“You inherited her tenacity.”

“It’s the same for you,” Kagome says, shifting back in her seat. “You resemble your father, though your temperaments are different. I’ve never met your mother but I’m sure you took on some of her characteristics too.”

“Would you like to meet her? She returned to Tokyo recently.”

“Perfect! You can spend tomorrow with her. I’m sure you both have a lot to catch up on.”

Sesshomaru frowns. While it is true that there have been some significant changes in his life disclosing those details to his mother never entered his mind. “The relationship I have with my family is different from yours.”

“I know but it’s never too late to change. If it’s something you want, there’s no harm in trying, right?”

“Perhaps.”

They arrive at Kagome’s apartment building far sooner than he likes. The concrete walk between his car and the lobby is illuminated by street lamps. Sesshomaru would be more confident in their security if a guard was stationed by the door. Kagura Naraku must not feel the need to take such measures. He disagrees. When they meet again, he will discuss the matter with her. 

“Thank you for today,” Kagome says as they exit the car. 

“I believe I should be the one thanking you. You honored the terms of our wager.” 

“Like I had a choice,” she mutters. 

“I appreciate the opportunity to visit your home and meet your family.”

“I’ve never been so glad to lose before,” Kagome tells him. “But don’t think this changes anything. Just because my family likes you doesn’t mean I will hold back. Next time we spar, I’m going to win.”

“We shall see.”

Kagome smiles and turns away to head inside. Just as her hand wraps around the door handle, she pauses. She pivots around. It takes her less than three steps to reach him. Then she is on her tiptoes leaning forward.

Sesshomaru feels the brush of her lips against his. The kiss is as sudden as the sparks he felt the first time their hands touched but infinitely more rewarding.

Kagome rocks back on her heels, staring up at him hesitantly. Her focus flickers between his eyes and his lips. When they pause there for a full second, his resolve snaps.

He wraps his arm around her waist, pulling her close. She lets out a startled gasp that is quickly silenced as his mouth descends upon hers. He places his free hand on her hip to steady her. Their bodies are pressed together as though they require each other for support to remain standing. Her hands find purchase in his shirt before weaving up to the nape of his neck and curling into his hair. 

Sesshomaru pulls back merely long enough to study Kagome’s reaction. He takes in her parted lips and half-lidded gaze. She’s like a water lily floating along the surface, a pink one– the same color as the blush she so frequently wears. He wonders if her whole body turns that shade and if her body would turn this color while she’s writhing beneath him. He ducks down for another taste. 

The world ceases to exist. He can no longer hear the traffic surrounding the apartment complex. The scent of HaHa Chicken fades away. Even the cool nighttime breeze does not register. Sesshomaru’s senses are fixated on the only thing he cares about— Kagome. 

He is so enthralled with her that he does not consider how improper their public display is. Sesshomaru also fails to notice the parked car on the corner. 

And the spectator inside. 

Chapter Text

Sunday finds Kagome tucked into the corner of the couch. Though Kagura arrived home before she did, Kagome’s roommate is still asleep. She doesn’t mind. These quiet hours are her favorite time of day. It is peaceful. There are no interruptions or obligations to address. Kagome is free to dive into a world of fiction.

Smiling, she wedges her finger between the pages of her manga and opens the next chapter.

Kamisama Hajimemashita piqued her interest the moment it was published. Kagome keeps the volumes stacked neatly on her bedroom’s bookcase. They sit with her other favorite series: Kakuriyo no Yadomeshi and Furutsu Basuketto.

To her friends, the works are popular fantasy novels composed of supernatural elements with a healthy dose of hijinx. It helps that each series boasts a roster of swoon-worthy male leads. Her friends find the content entertaining.

Kagome has a different perspective. The juxtaposition of worlds is relatable. She identifies with the heroines. Their trials are often more dramatic than what she encounters, but Kagome finds comfort in their determination. These fictitious women inspire her. They bring her hope when she gets discouraged.

Over the years, Kagome has turned to reading as an outlet. She’s grown familiar with the characters in these novels. Kagome feels the pain of their defeats and celebrates each victory. She’s invested in their romantic pursuits, always cheering her favorite couple on. They are akin to friends.

Regardless, they can’t compare to the real thing.

Kagome intended to kiss Sesshomaru goodnight on the cheek. The gesture was meant as a thank you. Kagome hadn’t even been convinced she would do it. Then he’d walked her to the door and she lost all sense of reason.

It’s impossible not to blush at the memory.

She traces her lips. Having her first kiss was nothing like she envisioned. Kagome anticipated getting butterflies in her stomach the way she does while reading about her favorite characters finally coming together. She was unprepared for the explosion of nerves and excitement. Butterflies were light, docile creatures. What she felt last night was neither. Kagome was consumed by heat and an insatiable need for more.

It is the reason why she and Sesshomaru didn’t stop until her neighbor, Mr. Ishida arrived home. Kagome isn’t sure how many times he cleared his throat before she heard him. She’d been mortified. Seeing his disapproving glare felt like someone dousing her in ice water. Immediately, she separated herself from Sesshomaru.

He wasn’t been pleased with her hurried goodbye. She tried to soften the blow by promising to call him. Unfortunately, she didn’t have an opportunity to say more.

Mr. Ishida decided to play chaperone. He held the door open for her, prompting Kagome inside. She didn’t even have a chance to hug her boyfriend before being escorted upstairs.

The elevator ride was uncomfortable. Kagome rushed out the second the doors opened. Once she was inside her apartment,  she texted an apology to Sesshomaru.

His reply caused her to be restless all night and resulted in little sleep.

Next time, there will be no interruption. You will come home with me.

Heat burns her cheeks. Will she ever get used to Sesshomaru’s directness? 

“Must be a steamy one.”

Kagome jolts, snapping her manga shut. “Oh, Kagura. Good morning!”

Her friend leans over the couch. “Why is your face all red? They weren’t even kissing.” 

“We did— erm, I mean they did— on the last page.”

Kagura studies her face. “Oh, really?” She snatches the book from Kagome’s hands and flips through it. She frowns. Her eyes scan through the content quickly before she returns the book with a knowing grin. “I don’t see any kissing. Are you sure you were thinking about the manga and not something else?”

Kagome tries to keep her face neutral. “Yes.”

Kagura isn’t convinced. She comes around the couch to sit next to Kagome. “So you weren’t fantasizing about a certain arrogant inuyokai?”

“Well…” Kagome trails off biting her lip.

Her friend laughs. “I thought so.”

Kagome sets her manga aside. “It was my first kiss.”

Kagura stiffens. Kagome isn’t sure if her reaction is due to surprise or protectiveness until her roommate asks, “Do his kissing skills make up for his personality?

“There’s nothing wrong with his personality,” Kagome replies, instantly defensive. She regrets her tone as soon as the words leave her mouth. Her anger isn’t directed at Kagura. She’s just embarrassed her roommate caught her thinking about indecent things. 

Kagura releases an annoyed huff. “Really? Aren’t you the one who came home, complaining about what a prejudiced asshole he is?”

“That was before I knew him. Sesshomaru may have strong convictions but he isn’t unreasonable. He’s a lot like you in that way.”

“It must have been one hell of a kiss,” Kagura remarks, shaking her head in disbelief.

Kagome recalls how passionately Sesshomaru returned her affections. She initiated the contact but he made sure to have the last word. Metaphorically speaking, that is. She grins, equal parts proud of herself for taking this step forward and elated he returns her feelings.

Kagura makes a gagging noise. “Please stop. I can handle the smell and the fact that you two are an item now but I draw the line at dopey expressions.”

“I’m not dopey!”

“Kags, you’ve got it bad.”

“Do not!”

Kagura laughs again. “Yeah, you do.” She closes her eyes and lets her head fall against the back of the couch. “Does he treat you right?”

“He does.”

She lets out a breath. “He better.”

“Sesshomaru isn’t the jerk I thought he was. He may have his moments, but there is always a reason why he behaves the way he does. Usually, it’s because he doesn’t know how to express himself. He’s not good at being vulnerable. I think he’s still upset his father left them.”

Kagura sits up, staring at Kagome. “Them?”

“When Touga Taisho remarried, he left Sesshomaru and his mate, Sesshomaru’s mom.”

Recognition flickers in Kagura’s eyes. Kagome assumes it’s because she’s referencing Sesshomaru’s mother. Kagura never knew her mother. Any time she asked about it, her father dismissed her. She tried hiring a private investigator. The only thing he managed to find was the address of an abandoned medical lab.

“He was forced to grow up so he could care for his mother. I think the experience made him put up a lot of walls. No one likes being vulnerable but it's even harder for those who experience loss at a young age,” Kagome explains.

“Sounds like you and your dad,” Kagura comments. 

“It’s not the same thing. My dad didn’t choose to be separated from us.”

“Being left by choice isn’t any easier,” Kagura points out. “In any case, the result is the same. You both sacrificed your childhoods for the betterment of your families.”

“You make it sound so honorable.”

“It is.”

“No, it’s not. Anyone else would do the same. Family is important.”

Kagura scoffs. “Maybe your family. Not mine. Can you see my sister doing that? No. It takes a special person to pause their life for someone else.”

Kagome grins. “So you’re saying Sesshomaru is a special person? Does that mean you approve?”

“No!”

“But you just said—.”

“I was referring to you,” Kagura insists.

“Maybe but what you said can also be applied to Sesshomaru. Based on your logic, he is special.”

“I did not say that.”

Kagome grins. “You did. Indirectly.”

Kagura reflects for a moment before she responds. “I’m worried about you.”

Kagome’s smile fades. Kagura rarely appears unsure. She is the most confident person Kagome knows, apart from Sesshomaru. Her best friend doesn’t back down from decisions. Regardless of her position, Kagura always stands firm. What may be perceived as defiance, Kagome views as resoluteness. Kagura wears a face of determination in everything she does. Going toe-to-toe with other daiyokai? No problem. Telling off her father? Child’s play. Entering a secret relationship? Simple. Kagura isn’t intimidated by anything.

So why does she look uneasy?

“In school, you fell fast. I saw it happening. I knew it would end badly. I could have said something but I didn’t. I was too afraid.”

Kagome rests her hand on top of Kagura’s. “Of what?”

“Losing you,” Kagura admits. “You were my first real friend— let’s be honest, at that point, you were my only friend. I thought if I told you Inuyasha was bad news, you’d get mad and stop talking to me.”

“That never would have happened.”

Kagura stares at her.

“Oh, I’m not saying I wouldn’t have been hurt,” Kagome clarifies, “because we both know I would have been. Still, I wouldn’t have discounted what you said just because I was mad. You were— are —my best friend. No matter how much I may dislike something you say or do, it is never going to be enough to chase me away. I consider you my sister.   You’re always going to have a place in my heart.”

Arms wrap around her shoulders as Kagura pulls her close. Kagome pats her friend’s back. She understands where Kagura is coming from. Back then, they were younger, less sure of themselves. Given the tumultuous relationship Kagura has with her family, it isn’t a surprise she would doubt her standing with Kagome.

“I hope you know that. And I hope you know you can tell me anything, even if it’s something you don’t think I’ll like.”

“I do,” Kagura confirms. She gives Kagome one final squeeze before sitting back. “If I’m being honest, I think my reservations have more to do with me than him.”

“What do you mean?”

“I still feel guilty about making you go on the blind date for me. I put you in such an awkward position, not only with your job but also with me. It wasn’t fair to you.”

“Kagura, I’ve already told you, I’m fine. It’s not like you forced me into anything. I agreed to it.”

“But if I had the dossier—.”

“Then I would have been stuck in the past. Going on that date changed my life. If anything, I should be thanking you.”

Her roommate scrutinizes her expression. “Life changing, huh? Didn’t you just say you didn’t have it bad?”

“Okay, okay,” Kagome holds up in her hands. “I may have it a little bad.”

“Try again.”

“Kind of bad?”

Kagura shakes her head.

Kagome groans, grabbing the nearest pillow to bury her face.

“Just promise me you two won’t do it here.”

Kagome stares at her roommate. “Do what?”

“Mate.”

Her cheeks flare red. “We’re nowhere near there yet!”

Kagura shrugs, indifferent to her flustered response. “It’s a new house rule.”

“Rule?” Kagome questions.

“More of a condition,” Kagura rephrases. “I don’t want you to feel like your mate—.”

“ Boyfriend .”

“Whatever. I don’t want you to feel like you can’t invite him home. Just because I may not be sold on him doesn’t mean you have to always go to his place. This is your apartment too.”

Kagome hugs her friend. “Thanks, Kagura. The same goes for you. If you and Arisu want to spend time here, she’s more than welcome. And if you want me to not be here, that’s fine too.”

Kagura returns her embrace. “I want you to meet her. We should have dinner together one night soon. What’s your schedule like this week?”

“I have the quarterly business review this week.”

Kagura rolls her eyes. “Did your idiot boss push all the work off on you again?”

“Yeah, but this time, I decided to do something about it.”

Kagura grins mischievously. “Do tell.”

“I changed the format of the report. He won’t be able to speak to the key points.”

“Which means you’ll have to step in and do it for him,” Kagura surmises.

“Exactly.”

Her eyes gleam. “I love it! Who knew you had it in you, Higurashi?”

“I’m not going to let them reject my application for another proposal. I’m going to prove I deserve to be a manager.”

“Of course you do! And if they can’t see that, then they don’t deserve you. You should work for me.”

“Your dad would never allow it.”

“Believe me, it would be the least of my father’s worries. He’s still not over the fact I ended things with your boyfriend.”

Kagome ignores the last part and focuses on her friend’s predicament. “Is he pushing you to meet other potential mates?”

“He’s trying but I’ve gotten pretty good at dodging them. Arisu helps. We’ve been spending most of our evenings at charity auctions, gallery openings, and other highly visible events.”

“Isn’t your dad suspicious?”

Kagura waves her hand dismissively. “Not at all. He thinks our relationship is based purely on business. He has no idea. Business is the one thing we don’t talk about.”

“He’ll figure it out eventually, Kagura.”

Her roommate laughs. “Can you imagine the look on his face? I hope the paparazzi capture it on film. I’ll make it my new screensaver.”

Kagome is glad she has a sense of humor about the situation. Kagura’s laughter doesn’t quell the uneasy feeling in her gut. If their roles were reversed, Kagome doubts she’d be this cavalier. Onigumo Naraku is not known for showing mercy, even amongst his children. The scars on Kagura’s back are proof.

“Do you still have an emergency fund?” she asks.

Kagura nods. “All cash. Untraceable.”

“You should think about increasing it. Just in case.”

“Why are you so upset? He can’t do anything to me.”

Kagome shifts to face her friend. “Now, it’s my turn to worry about you and your turn to listen. Your father is a cruel man. You can never tell what he’s thinking. We both know what happened in middle school. When the news breaks about you and Arisu, his reaction will be worse. Be careful not to get trapped alone with him.”

“Nothing is going to happen to me,” Kagura assures her.

“I know because if he tries anything, I’ll be there,” Kagome promises. “I won’t let him hurt you again.”

Kagura’s face breaks into the softest smile Kagome has ever seen from her friend. “I hope you know that vow goes both ways. If anyone ever tries to harm you, they’ll have to go through me.”

She returns her friend’s warm expression. “I’ll be sure Sesshomaru knows to expect you.”

“Same. Arisu will have to get in line.”

The topic of their conversation may be heavy but Kagome finds it comforting. Her connection with Kagura runs deeper than blood or common interests. They chose to be friends, roommates, and sisters. Their lives are intertwined.

“It feels like forever since we hung out. What do you want to do?” Kagome asks.

“Brunch at Rubia, shopping in Ginza, then mani-pedis at Narak, followed by blowouts at Silk Salon, and then a quick bite to eat before we hit the dance floor.” Kagura holds Kagome’s gaze throughout the entirety of her plan. She lasts less than a minute before cackling.

Kagome tosses the nearest couch cushion at her. Kagura knows she’s not one for excessive pampering or hanging out at nightclubs. Kagome’s ideal day off is more low-key. Visiting a cafe, reading a new book, taking a walk through the park. Every one of those activities is preferable to the proposed agenda. 

Kagura holds up a hand in surrender. “Okay, I deserve that, but can you blame me? When was the last time we spent the day together?”

“You’re right.”

Her roommate wraps her arms around the cushion, bringing it against her chest. “I’ve missed this. It feels like we’re back in school, procrastinating on homework.”

“You procrastinated. I studied.”

“Things haven’t really changed,” Kagura states, her eyes falling on Kagome’s manga. “Only instead of studying the laws of physics, you’re studying the laws of attraction.” Kagome goes red. “Newsflash, you aren’t going to find anything helpful in those. They may have been relevant in middle school but they will leave you woefully underprepared for the nights you’re about to have. Trust me.” Kagura winks.

“We’re not talking about my dates with Sesshomaru. We’re supposed to be talking about our day together.”

“Don’t worry. We are.” Kagura’s smirk warns Kagome that her best friend is plotting something— a suspicion which is confirmed a second later when Kagura adds, “Get dressed. We’re going shopping.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sesshomaru glares at the mobile device in his palm. His mother’s contact details are displayed on the screen. One single tap and he will be connected to her. The simplicity of this human invention is as impressive as it is intrusive.

Connections are defined by deeper means than a series of shrill tones. While some would argue technology has eased the burden of communication, Sesshomaru argues it is a hinderance. A single word or brief line of text cannot convey one’s true nature. It is an inadequate means for describing the depth of emotions he feels, especially in terms of relationships.

The ties to Sesshomaru’s family are a tangled web of discontent and resentment. He has little interest in attempting to straighten things out, regardless of how frustrated it makes him. His energy is best invested elsewhere.

Namely with Kagome.

He resists the urge to type her name into his phone. Allowing her time to be with her closest friend is important. Sesshomaru appreciates his time with Kagome not solely because he cares for her but because she chose him of her own volition. He will not disrespect that by caging her like a bird. Sesshomaru respects Kagome and her connection with Miss Naraku. He may not understand it but that’s due to his limited experience. Relationships have never been his forte. 

Frowning, Sesshomaru reviews the contact details displayed on his screen. A string of numbers should not incite such indecision. The downward angle of his lips deepens.

The problem is not as simple as wanting or not wanting a relationship with his mother. His desire to cultivate meaningful relationships has never been the issue. The crux of the matter is in maintaining the relationship shop.

Sesshomaru has never understood how to prioritize the needs of others. Everything he sacrificed as a pup was done out of familial obligation. He expected his mother to restore the balance once she recovered.

She didn’t.

Arisu looked to Sesshomaru to address matters. Instead of removing the weight of her duties from his shoulders, she added the burden of her expectations. The heaviest one was viewing him as a replacement for his father— not in terms of being by her side, but as her successor to their proud lineage. Sesshomaru was never more disappointed.

His father abandoned them for love. At least, that was what he claimed. The only emotion Arisu’s pursuits were tied to was pride. His mother reinvented herself, but in doing so, she turned Sesshomaru into a pawn.

Despite his misgivings, he followed in her footsteps. Sesshomaru equates power with stability and comfort. When he met Kagome, he was forced to question why. Confronting his past was not pleasant. Acknowledging his shortcomings was even less so. The only thing that made it bearable was having Kagome by his side.

Which is why Sesshomaru is prepared to do something he never has before.

He presses the icon on his screen. There is a pause as the call connects, then his mother’s voice comes through. “Well, this is certainly an unexpected surprise.”

“Hello, mother.”

 “My beloved son,” she returns. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Are you available for lunch?”

He can picture her expression, a mixture of surprise and skepticism. “When?”

“Today.”

Another pause, though this one is shorter. “The Aoyama Grand. Noon.”

“I will be there.”

“See you then.” With a click, the call disconnects.

Sesshomaru isn’t bothered by her direct response. His mother is not one to waste time— a trait he inherited.

Having followed through on his plan, Sesshomaru reviews the upcoming week’s schedule. His days are comprised of thirty to sixty-minute meetings. Color-coded blocks line his calendar. Each represents a different type of stakeholder: board members, stockholders, executive leadership, general personnel, and clients.

The quarterly reports are due this week, which means his schedule is tighter than normal. Leaders from each team will present their current status and their projections through year-end and beyond. There are few things more tedious than this series of meetings. Unfortunately, it is a necessary evil.

The only thing more tiresome than the reports is dealing with the presenters. Most of them, Kagome’s superior included, are solely concerned with their numbers. While profit margins are important, they do not define an organization’s success. Sesshomaru wishes his subordinates understood a war cannot be won with a single blade.

He considers requesting long-term recommendations from each of them. It is unlikely any will be sufficiently prepared to tackle the task unless they have already put thought into it. He shakes his head. Not a single one cares enough to be proactive. If Sesshomaru had his way, he would terminate the entire group. That would increase his profit margins.

The rest of his morning is spent responding to emails and preparing for the week ahead. As he checks off task after task, the hours tick by. A nagging voice in the back of his head— which sounds much like Kagome’s —reminds Sesshomaru he works too much. He makes a point to finish his current task and log off.

Traditionally, Sesshomaru spends his weekends working. Whether he uses the time to catch up from the week prior or correct work from his subordinates, there is always a plethora of activities to focus on. Sesshomaru does not regard his dedication as wrong. He is the head of Taisho Enterprises. He needs to set a precedent. That does not discount Kagome’s observation.

Sesshomaru cannot continue to work the hours he has in the past if he desires a life with her. Nor does he want to. He would much rather spend his weekend in Kagome’s presence. Sparring, cooking, playing Shogi— the activity does not matter. The company does.

Again, he considers hiring her as his assistant. Adding Kagome to his staff would decrease his workload. However, seeing her throughout the day would prove to be a distraction, especially after last night.

If things continue to progress this way, he will meet his father’s ultimatum before time runs out. Perhaps he has nothing to worry about.

With the exception of telling Kagome about his father’s condition.

Sesshomaru scowls. He does not wish to keep secrets from his mate, or to lose her. There is no straightforward answer, no clear-cut path he can see on the board. He is at a standstill. Irritated, he sweeps out of his house.

Being behind the wheel helps curb his anger. Sesshomaru cuts through the traffic with the same precision he uses to engage opponents. He longs for the days when he could cross the land in his true form. A run would release the tension in his muscles.

He pulls up to the hotel. As he shifts into park, an attendant rushes to his door to take his keys. “Keep it close,” he instructs the valet. The man nods and switches places with Sesshomaru.

The Aoyama Grand is an elite hotel with a famous rooftop bar. What sets it apart from the other rooftop venues in Tokyo, is the atmosphere. The Top is a botanical retreat. It features lush vegetation native to tropical locations such as Bali. The restaurant offers patrons an opportunity to escape the chaos of the city to partake in a miniature vacation.

His clients regard The Top as one of the premier locations to meet. They enjoy the aesthetic, as well as the drinks. Sesshomaru has never visited. He prefers to take his business meetings in the office. Rooftop bars are common in most major cities. He doubts a few palm trees make this one noteworthy.

As he steps off the elevator, Sesshomaru concludes the hype is justified. The foliage serves as a barrier between the cityscape and the comfortable couches lining the walls. There are a few tables. The bar is located on his right. Overall, it is well-designed and intimate. He will need to bring Kagome here.

A woman appears at his side, interrupting his thoughts. “Mr. Taisho.”

He nods.

“Right this way, sir.”

She leads him to a table in the corner, partially hidden behind a massive potted plant. Seated on the end of the couch is Arisu Aikawa.

“Mother.”

“Sesshomaru.”

He takes a seat across from her.

The waitress takes their drink order and then leaves them to talk. His mother doesn’t hesitate to take the lead. “May I ask what inspired this impromptu invitation?”

Sesshomaru unfurls his napkin and places it across his lap. “I realized you might be lonely.”

His mother smirks. “Did you? And how did you arrive at this realization?”

“It was suggested.”

She makes a pensive humming noise. “Those in your confidence are few. I can’t imagine you would take anything Totosai said into account. Mr. Ogata is too reserved to speak up on a family matter. That leaves Bokuseno.”

Sesshomaru does not confirm or deny her assumption. “Though I find the timing a bit odd. Why would Bokuseno’s suggestion be of interest to you now? Surely, he’s spoken of this matter with you before.” She studies him across the table, eyes focused on more than his outward appearance. “No, this isn’t the work of your mentor, but another— a female.”

“Does the source matter? I thought you would be grateful for the meeting.” 

“I am,” his mother responds, folding her hands together in front of her as she continues to observe him. “I am also quite intrigued. You have never taken an interest in finding a mate. Even the offer to consolidate power never made you consider taking one. I was convinced my days would end without seeing the face of my grandpup. I am pleased to see I was wrong. So,” she leans forward, “when do you plan to introduce her to me?” 

Chapter Text

Kagome fidgets with her bag. As the elevator rises, she pulls the zipper back and forth. Open. Close. Open. Close. Open. Close. The rhythmic noise of the metal teeth locking and unlocking is barely noticeable over her pulse pounding. Monday mornings tend to be stressful but this one is on a different level.

Despite her bravado in front of Kagura, Kagome is beginning to second-guess her choice of reworking the quarterly report format. What if Mr. Takumi reads it before the meeting? Will he write her up? Fire her? Or worse, what if he doesn’t see it until the meeting like she planned and then takes action? He may not be a good manager, but Mr. Takumi knows how to play an excellent victim. He will likely label Kagome an attention-seeker or worse, a bully.

Her stomach somersaults. How did she not consider this before? Her whole plan could backfire. She could face disciplinary action. Kagome could be terminated.

When the chime sounds, she jolts. Instinctively, Kagome fishes her phone out and types a quick text to Kagura. Her friend’s response is instant.

You’re not crazy. And you’re not backing out.

Kagome should have known better than to expect anything less. Kagura hates Mr. Takumi. It’s not without reason. On Kagome’s first day at the company, Mr. Takumi stated that based on her lack of experience she would need to work hard to achieve any form of success. She hadn’t thought much about it at the time.  A few weeks in,  she realized what her supervisor meant. Her role was to serve under his heel. 

She’d been doing it ever since.

It is time to make a change. She just has to be brave enough to follow through. 

Her phone vibrates with another message. Are you wearing your power suit?

Kagome’s face burns. When Kagura said they were going shopping, she hadn’t said where or what for. It wasn’t until they arrived at Peach John that Kagome understood. The nationwide brand is well-known for its products. Kagome owns a couple of their loungewear sets. Kagura wasn’t interested in that area of the store. She directed Kagome to the rear corner where the lingerie sets were displayed.

Her selection is currently hidden beneath a modest blouse and pencil skirt combination. The only visible component is the stockings. Kagome struggled to adjust the garter clips for over twenty minutes before she found the appropriate length.

She’s never worn anything like these lace-embellished garments. Kagura assured her the purchase was an investment. “You’ll agree once he sees you in it.”

Kagome can’t help being excited by the prospect. It is thrilling to imagine such a powerful figure such as Sesshomaru coming undone. It’s also nerve-wracking. Without Kagura cheering her on from the sidelines, Kagome feels out of her element. She’s never gone to these lengths to impress someone before. There's never been a reason to care this much. She's experiencing a lot of firsts with Sesshomaru. And this is a big one.

It’s why Kagura suggested she wear the lingerie to work. The more often Kagome does, the more comfortable she will be in it. Kagura also dubbed the set as her power suit.

Kagome doesn’t feel powerful. She feels ridiculous. The rational side of her brain knows none of her coworkers are aware of her change in undergarments. The nervous part is less certain. She worries about her skirt riding up or one of the garter clips breaking.

What if it happens in front of him? Kagome won’t even bother to hand in her resignation. She’ll just leave. If she doesn’t die of embarrassment first.

“Good morning, Ms. Higurashi.”

She steps off the elevator. “Hi, Mio.”

“Still not feeling well?”

“Hmm? Oh, no, I’m fine just getting used to my power suit,” Kagome explains as she heads for her desk.

Her coworker’s head tilts as she watches her pass. “Didn’t you wear that blouse and skirt combo last week?”

“Er, yes— I meant my new heels,” Kagome corrects.

Mio glances down at the pumps skeptically but doesn’t push the issue. “I was going to the break room to brew some tea. Would you like a cup?”

“Sure. Thanks, Mio.”

She hopes the tea will help calm her nerves. Nothing else seems to be doing the trick. Again, Kagome finds herself wishing she had an ounce of Kagura’s unflinching confidence. Kagura wouldn’t be unsettled by her outfit selection. She’d stroll proudly through the office with a smug grin daring people to ask what inspired her good mood. Kagome doesn’t strut. She ambles over to her desk like a baby deer on new legs.

Kagome takes a seat and logs into her computer. As her inbox refreshes, she flips to a fresh page on her notepad to draft her daily to-do list. Kagome draws a line down the center separating daily tasks from time-sensitive ones. She is finishing the first column when Mio places a steaming cup on the edge of her desk.

“I added honey,” she tells Kagome. “I figured you could use something a little sweet since it’s Monday.”

Mio’s thoughtfulness reminds Kagome of another reason to persevere. Mr. Takumi’s harassment doesn’t stop with her. He mistreats all of his employees. His focus isn’t aligned with their corporate values, only himself. Kagome can’t let him continue operating this way. Either he changes his ways or he finds a position outside of Taisho Enterprises.

“Thank you. How was your weekend?” Kagome asks.

“I took the train home to visit my family. It was my father’s birthday,” Mio explains.

“That’s nice. I’m sure they were excited to see you. How long has it been?”

“A few months. If it wasn’t so far, I’d go more often.”

“I understand. If my family didn’t live in Tokyo, I wouldn’t see them every weekend and, sometimes, it’s still a challenge. There’s always so much to do.”

“Exactly!”

“Will you go back to visit for the holidays?” Kagome questions.

“That’s my plan. I’d like to stay through the new year but Mr. Takumi hasn’t approved my leave request yet.”

Kagome frowns. “Did you ask him why?”

Mio shakes her head. “I’m too afraid to bring it up. He always gets agitated when the quarterly reports are due.”

“Can’t imagine why,” Kagome mutters too low for Mio to hear.

“I’ll ask him next week after the meeting is over. He’s usually in a better mood afterward.”

Yeah, after he takes credit for all my hard work. “Don’t put it off for too long,” she tells Mio. “If it’s an issue of coverage, I can talk to the local team members to ensure your duties are taken care of. Everyone deserves to take time off, especially around the holidays.”

“Thanks, Kagome.”

“Of course.”

Mio returns to her desk and Kagome finishes her list.

The quarterly business review is scheduled to begin after lunch. Her manager has a small window of opportunity. If Mr. Takumi does, he will have taken the first step toward becoming a better leader. If not, Kagome will be ready to serve in his stead. It’s a gamble— the biggest she’s taken in her career —but fear won’t hold her back. Kagome needs to do this for the company, for her colleagues and, above all else, for herself. Nothing will change if she doesn’t make a stand.

“Higurashi.” Her boss addresses her with intense disdain. “My office. Now.”

Several people pause working to watch her rise from her chair and cross the department. Mr. Takumi stands in the doorway, watching her like an impatient principal ready to dole out disciplinary action. Kagome keeps her expression neutral as she enters.

When the door shuts and Mr. Takumi’s back is to her she allows herself to worry. It is a fleeting moment. By the time her boss faces her, the fear is gone.

“Our quarterly review is today,” he says, sitting across from her at his desk.

“Yes, sir.”

“Have you prepared the slides?”

“Yes, I sent them over last week for your review.”

His eyes widen for a fraction of a second before he scowls. “I don’t have them. What time did you email me?”

Kagome recites the time, adding, “The server provided a read receipt approximately one hour later.”

Mr. Takumi glares. “Are you certain?”

“I can resend if you’d like.”

He considers her offer. Then, with a dismissive wave of his hand, replies, “Make sure you have copies printed for the attendees. I expect you to be on time. Am I clear?”

“Yes, sir.” Kagome bows. She waits for him to ask about the content of her slides. He doesn’t. He turns away, typing out responses to his inbox.

After a minute, he glances over his screen at her. “What are you still doing here? Don’t you have work to do?”

She keeps her tone level. “I’ll see you this afternoon.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

An alert dings on his cellphone. Sesshomaru silences the device. Following the meal with his mother, she reached out multiple times for an answer to her question: When do you plan to introduce me to her?

What troubles him more than her determination is her wording. Arisu Aikawa is known for her attention to detail. Her cunning has been a large proponent in propelling her career. She is not guilty of making oversights. If his mother said 'introduce' instead of 'meet' then she is already aware of Kagome’s identity.

Sesshomaru scowls. Managing one meddlesome parent is difficult enough. Two is nearly impossible. He needs to alter his strategy. Of the pair, his mother is the more probable ally. She also is the most likely to interfere with his long-term plans. The situation is not ideal. He leans back in his chair, contemplating options.

A light knock announces his assistant. The man waits a moment before he opens the door. “Good morning, Mr. Taisho. I have the new vendor contracts for your review and the past quarter numbers for today’s business review.”

“Please leave them on my desk.”

Mr. Ueda places the two folders beside Sesshomaru’s monitor. He launches into an overview of Sesshomaru’s itinerary, highlighting the key attendees at each meeting. Sesshomaru does not hear his words.

He observes the man standing before him. Mr. Ueda is of average height and build. His brown hair is neatly trimmed. He keeps his suit pressed and his shoes polished. By human standards, he appears to be a respectable choice as a mate.

“Mr. Ueda.”

“Sir?”

“You never mentioned your crush on Ms. Higurashi.”

His assistant looks uncomfortable. He glances around, as if expecting something within the office will help him escape this line of questioning. When none presents itself, his face goes red. “Why are you asking about Kagome? That was years ago. I did ask her out several times—,” Sesshomaru’s eyes narrow. “But she never agreed to go out with me. I was hurt, of course, but— uh, —I mean, I’m sure she had a good reason. She’s a wonderful person. You have nothing to worry about. I no longer care…erm, that is to say— I’ve found someone else who—.”

“Mr. Ueda?”

“Yes, sir?”

“I suggest you keep your interest in the past. Ms. Higurashi and I are in a committed relationship. I will not stand by if you attempt to interfere.”

“Yes, of course.”

He gives the man a curt nod and proceeds to matters of business. “Have the presenters turned in their slides for this afternoon’s review?”

“All but Mr. Takumi.”

Sesshomaru clenches his mouse. “Did he provide a reason for missing the deadline?”

“He communicated Ms. Higurashi failed to supply him with the updated metrics on time.”

“Is that not a supervisor’s role? To ensure his department is functioning on time?”

Mr. Ueda nods.

“Check the server logs. I want a report on every exchange between Mr. Takumi and Ms. Higurashi in the past month. Make sure they include time stamps.”

“I’ll open a ticket with IT Support.”

“Tell them I require the information before lunch.”

His assistant leaves to handle the request.

Sesshomaru reaches for the folders. He has negotiations to complete, an opponent to eliminate, and an ally to select. It is time to get to work.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

She taps the toe of her shoe on the conference room floor. Being the first to arrive has a new wave of nerves flooding her system. For the fourth time since her arrival, Kagome confirms she is in the correct room. She is about to message Hojo when Mr. Tsujitani strolls in.

“…which is what prompted me to decide on the— oh, Ms. Higurashi, good afternoon.”

Kagome lowers her head. “Good afternoon.”

Mr. Tsujitani looks at the conference room table, spotting the copies she laid out at each seat. “You’re prompt as always.”

“I like to be prepared.”

“I can tell. Mr. Takumi must be grateful to have such a competent employee in his department.”

Kagome forces herself to smile. She doesn’t know whether Mr. Tsujitani is aware of Mr. Takumi’s faults and testing her or completely ignorant of her situation. She’d prefer to think it’s the former. Mr. Tsujitani is a bit of a wild card but Kagome believes he has good intentions.

He plucks one of her copies off the conference room table and begins to flip through it. Kagome watches him scan the content. When Mr. Tsujitani gets to the third slide, his eyebrows rise. “You’re using an updated format for the metrics.”

She nods. “I believe this format is easier to understand. There isn’t time to question what each component means at the executive level. A graphical representation shows the key information in a single source.”

Mr. Tsujitani grins. “I agree. With numbers like this, who wouldn’t want to highlight it?” he teases.

Kagome isn’t sure how to respond. She’s happy the Client Relations department is faring well but she doesn’t want to seem arrogant. Their role is different from other departments. Research and Development is measured on the number of innovations they produce, not the number of clients they manage. The Operations department is held accountable based on the P&L. They might not appreciate her format changes as Mr. Tsujitani does.

Attendees begin filtering in. Mr. Tsujitani acknowledges them individually while continuing to peruse his copy of her presentation. Kagome’s nervous energy increases. Does Mr. Tsujitani find it suspicious she changed the format? Will he mention it to Mr. Takumi? How will her manager retaliate? Kagome bites her lip, wondering if she really will get fired.

The atmosphere of the room shifts. All conversation stops as the CEO enters the room. Like everyone else, Kagome’s attention snaps to Sesshomaru. His presence is too commanding to ignore. It is the first time she’s seen him since their kiss— a fact she is reminded of the instant their eyes lock. As if sensing her thoughts, a hint of a smirk appears before Sesshomaru addresses the room. “Let us begin.”

Everyone takes their seats. Hojo displays the Sales department’s presentation. As the main channel for bringing revenue into the company, their team always kicks off the meeting.

Kagome listens to their report, jotting down notes so she can summarize the content for her team. Her pen pauses. My team? She chances a quick glance at Mr. Takumi who is seated between Mr. Tsujitani and Mr. Inada. He isn’t taking a single note. Instead, he is picking at his fingernails. Disgusted, Kagome resumes documenting. The least he can do is pretend to be interested in what the other leaders are presenting.

She pays close attention to the Operations update, as well as the report from IT. Sesshomaru remains quiet throughout each presentation. Any questions are posed by the other leaders or Hojo. Kagome suspects Sesshomaru has already revised the content. Any notes he may have will be delivered after the meeting. He prefers to address the collective to ensure alignment. At first, Kagome found this tactic harsh but now she understands it is more efficient.

“Mr. Takumi, please provide your update on Client Relations.”

Kagome’s pulse quickens. This is it. She’s been on pins and needles waiting for this moment to come. Now that it’s finally here, Kagome feels like a blank scroll about to be inked for the first time. What happens next will decide what course of action to take. She holds her breath and watches Hojo advance the slides.

Her manager stands next to the screen, launching into his presentation without sparing the slide a look. “As you can see, this quarter we are tracking with high customer satisfaction scores, two percent higher than last quarter. We anticipate this trend to continue as the company prepares to launch additional portfolio offerings. Next,” he directs Hojo.

“In terms of staffing, I have been focused on—.”

“Excuse me, Mr. Takumi,” Hojo interrupts politely, “but I believe you missed a slide.”

Mr. Takumi whips around. “Budget? How did that get there? Where’s my staffing slide?”

Hojo scans his laptop while the other attendees page through their handouts.

“Looks like it’s a few slides down, after Operations support. Makes more sense. Why wouldn’t you present the overall budget before discussing specific components?” Mr. Tsujitani comments.

Mr. Takumi snatches the copy out of his hand. He flips through, his jaw clenched tight. When he gets to the last page, he tosses the sheets across the table and yells her name.

Kagome jolts.

Eyes narrowed, he points an angry finger at her. “You did this. How dare you try to make a fool of me. You manipulative, little—.”

“Enough.”

Mr. Takumi goes pale at Sesshomaru’s tone. “Sir, I prepared for this presentation. What you’re seeing on the screen are not the slides I compiled.”

“If these are not the slides you prepared, then why were they submitted?”

“I…that is Higurashi’s job. Once I approve the slides, she sends them in and makes the copies.”

“And this version is not the one you approved? You’ve never seen it before?”

“No, sir.”

“Are you saying you are unprepared to present at this time?”

“Yes, but it’s her fault. She’s trying to—.”

Sesshomaru cuts him off. “Everyone out.” The attendees glance at each other, stunned by his command. “Now.” Immediately, they jump up, hastily gathering their things and shuffling out. Kagome attempts to do the same, until he calls after her. “Not you, Ms. Higurashi. You and Mr. Takumi will remain.”

Mr. Inada chuckles as he brushes past her. The gleam in his beady eyes makes her stomach turn.

Mr. Tsujitani lingers by the door. He places his hand on Kagome’s shoulder and gives her a reassuring pat. This does not go unnoticed by Sesshomaru.

“Mr. Tsujitani, I believe I said everyone.”

“On my way out,” the VP says with a smile. He exits the conference room, shutting the door behind him.

Kagome can’t look Sesshomaru in the eyes. She keeps her gaze planted firmly on the floor.

“I do not allow discourse in my business. There is certainly no place for it amongst team members.“

“I agree, sir. There is no excuse. I will phone HR at once and ensure the appropriate action is taken,” Mr. Takumi promises. “Forgive me. It is my role as the manager to keep my team in check. This will not happen again.”

Kagome can’t see his expression, but she knows the last part is directed at her.

“It is also your role as manager to properly prepare and present at these quarterly meetings, is it not?”

“Yes, of course, but as I’ve already stated—.”

“You have made your position clear. I would like to hear from your subordinate. Ms. Higurashi, explain yourself.”

Kagome fights back the jittery sensation threatening to overtake her. She lifts her head, fixing herself to look at each of the three men in the room: Mr. Takumi, Hojo, and Sesshomaru.

“Each quarter, I prepare the business review presentation. This quarter, I revised our format to address interests in order of importance. I also updated the content into a graphical format for ease of consumption.”

“Did you share these changes with Mr. Takumi.”

“No, she purposely—.”

Sessshomaru glares at her manager. “I asked Ms. Higurashi.”

“I sent the slide deck to Mr. Takumi last week for his review. I didn’t receive any feedback. Earlier today, when Mr. Takumi called me into his office, he asked if I prepared them. I confirmed I did and offered to resend. He requested that I make copies for each attendee and not be late.”

“You exchanged this collateral via our corporate web server, correct?”

“Yes, sir. Per our protocol, all communications are required to be sent through our secure network.”

“This is a simple matter.” Sesshomaru turns to his assistant. “Mr. Ueda, the server will have a log of all outgoing and incoming messages. Please pull a report of all exchanges between Mr. Takumi and Ms. Higurashi. If Mr. Takumi was unaware of this new content, then the fault lies with Ms. Higurashi. However, if this is a blatant lie, and she did in fact provide the report ahead of time, then the one facing action is you, Mr. Takumi.”

Kagome watches her boss transform from a gloating supervisor to a pale specter. “Is it really necessary, sir? I can take the lead on this and conduct the follow-up with HR. I’m sure you have better things to do.”

“I do. Unfortunately, you have disrupted my schedule with this issue. Since I do not have confidence in your abilities to handle the matter, I will see to it personally.”

“O-Of c-course, sir.” Mr. Takumi’s head hangs in resigned shame.

Hojo’s fingers on the keyboard are the only sound in the room. Each click sounds like a shot being fired and Mr. Takumi is the target. Sesshomaru’s attention does not leave the man. He shrinks under the scrutiny. “Sir?”

“You have the report?”

Hojo nods. Silently, he turns his laptop toward Sesshomaru.

“Mr. Takumi?”

“Y-Yes?”

“You will remain here. Ms. Higurashi?” She steps forward. “Report to my office. I would like to have a word with you.”

Kagome bows. “Yes, sir.”

On shaky legs, she stumbles out of the conference room. 

Hojo accompanies her. Normally, he has a comforting presence but right now, with so many eyes on her, Kagome feels trapped. Being escorted from the conference room doesn’t look good. It won’t matter if she’s guilty or not. By the time she returns to her desk, the office rumor mill will be in full swing. Kagome is certain Mr. Inada is already circulating his version of the story. At best, she will be considered overambitious. At worst, she’ll be branded a liability. No one will want to work with her. Mr. Takumi didn’t get away with his farce but did tarnish her reputation.

“Please wait in here." Hojo holds the office door open. "Mr. Taisho will be with you shortly." 

Kagome slips inside. Everything inside the room looks the same. Was it really only last week when they shared breakfast on the floor? The moment felt so surreal. Her current predicament is more akin to a nightmare.

Once the door closes, she starts pacing. She’s too upset to sit on the couch. Her mind spins in circles as she speculates what Sesshomaru is saying to Mr. Takumi. And what he will say to her.

Kagome wishes she had her cell phone. Kagura would know what to do in this situation. Even if she didn’t, talking to her would help calm Kagome down. It’s one of the many benefits of having a best friend. Their presence makes everything better.

Two voices begin talking outside. The first belongs to Hojo. He’s the closest to the office, making it easy to recognize, though Kagome can’t make out what he’s saying. The second is softer and indiscernible. It can only be one person.

Kagome takes a deep breath and readies herself for what is to come. She hears the door open, the soft steps of someone entering, and finally the click of the door shutting.

Knowing she can’t look him in the eye, Kagome keeps her back to him. “Before you say anything, know I didn’t do this to embarrass you or waste your time. I gave Mr. Takumi plenty of opportunities to correct his behavior. He chose not to. What you witnessed today was how he treats everyone on the team— not just me. I can’t let it continue. He doesn’t uphold our corporate ideals nor does he care about the long-term success of this company. If you need to terminate me for taking a stand against him, fine. But I won’t apologize for what I did.”

Kagome waits for Sesshomaru to respond. It’s difficult to hear anything over the thundering pulse in her ears, but eventually, she hears laughter. It isn’t the deep chuckle she’s grown used to. This is a light and feminine sound.

“You’re fierce for a human.”

She pivots around, startled to find a female daiyokai standing across from her. Kagome doesn’t know the woman’s name, but she does recognize her. "It's you! You came to the house. You saw us sparring.”

“Indeed.”

“What are you doing here?” Kagome demands.

“Visiting.”

Kagome doesn’t like how she phrases her answer. If this woman intends to hurt Sesshomaru, Kagome won’t allow it. She summons her reiki, preparing for a fight. “Who are you?”

The woman grins. “I would think it’s quite obvious. I’m Arisu Aikawa, Sesshomaru’s mother.”

Chapter Text

In the centuries since his birth, Sesshomaru witnessed many changes. Technological advancements, medical breakthroughs, scientific discoveries— each feat more impressive than the former. As the world altered, so did the battlefield. Where he once met his opponent in an open field, brandishing a sword, Sesshomaru now finds himself seated in a boardroom. The stage and his tactics have evolved. 

He can cut a man down with words as swiftly as he can with a blade. This method saves him the risk of staining his attire. However, it is far less satisfying.

“I tolerate very few things, least of which are liars.” Sesshomaru pauses to watch the man squirm in his seat. The one thing worse than a sharp tongue is silence. It is a cruel weapon capable of unraveling even the most confident contender. “You are not a liar.”

Mr. Takumi visibly relaxes. “I assure you, this has all been a mistake.”

“I agree. Your employment with my company has been,” Sesshomaru states, sliding his chair back to stand. Mr. Takumi goes pale. “A liar fabricates a story. You believe it.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“You are apathetic. Had you exercised even the slightest amount of loyalty to your team, they would have supported you. You cast them as the villains while you played the victim. Your goal was to provoke pity. I have none. This company belongs to me. I am responsible for all assets, including the people who work here. You targeted one of them. There are consequences.” 

“S-Such a-as?” the man stutters.

“First, you will be escorted from the premises by security. Collect all personal effects and leave. You no longer belong at Taisho Enterprises. Per our policy, you will not be awarded severance.”

“Mr. Taisho, be reasonable!”

Sesshomaru’s limited patience is wearing thin. “Reasonable? Was it reasonable to expect a subordinate to carry out the key responsibilities of your role while blocking her advancement opportunities?”

Mr. Takumi’s flare of indignation is instantly doused by shame. Yet, he refuses to admit to it. “You can’t prove anything.”

“Mr. Ueda’s search results provided more than enough context to open a case with HR. Given the length of your harassment and the hostile environment you created, I will be filing a report with the city’s Executive Ethics Board. I will not allow this behavior in my business.”

Mr. Takumi slams his hand on the conference room table as he stands. “This is slander!”

Sesshomaru holds the man’s gaze. “You have the right to appeal, however, may I remind you that as part of your employment contract, any testimony you provide must be unbiased. Legally, you are not allowed to speak ill of this company or its employees. I recommend you reassess your options.”

“You’re as arrogant as your father!”

“Like my father, I have worked hard to establish our brand. I will not allow your actions to sully it.” Sesshomaru buttons his suit jacket and strolls out.

“Get back here, Taisho! We’re not done!” Mr. Takumi rushes to follow.

Sesshomaru ignores him. Their conversation is over. The company's legal team will communicate anything that remains to be said.

“You can’t do this to me!”

Several people stop in the corridor to watch Mr. Takumi’s outburst. Sesshomaru does not acknowledge him or the onlookers. His lack of engagement makes Mr. Takumi more irate. In the future, when counsel interviews witnesses, they will recall how he chased after the CEO, ranting and hollering. Their observations will support Sesshomaru’s case against Mr. Takumi. He lets the man dig his own grave.

“Taisho! I’m speaking to you, Taisho!”

A security guard catches up to Mr. Takumi before he can grab Sesshomaru’s arm. “Enough, sir. It’s time for you to go.”

“I’m not going anywhere. This bastard—.”

The rest of his statement is lost as the elevator doors close. Sesshomaru watches Mr. Takumi’s face disappear behind the metal doors. The last thing the pathetic excuse for a leader sees is Sesshomaru’s victorious smirk. He hopes the image haunts Mr. Takumi’s thoughts for the remainder of his days.

Sesshomaru watches the numbers ascend as the elevator climbs to the twelfth floor. He is agitated about having to reschedule the quarterly business review. However, today’s events will ensure future meetings will not result in similar setbacks. His leadership team knows how he deals with disappointment.

He arrives at his floor. Mr. Ueda immediately appears. “Sir, you have a visitor.”

“I am aware.”

“No, not Ms. Higurashi. Your—.”

Sesshomaru stiffens, picking up a familiar scent. “When did she arrive?” he interrupts.

“Right after us. She refused to reschedule and insisted on waiting in your office. I offered to move Ms. Higurashi but she expressed interest in meeting her.”

“I will handle it.”

His assistant nods.

“Ensure we are not disturbed. No one is allowed entry until I say otherwise.”

“Of course, Mr. Taisho. I will rearrange your afternoon.”

Sesshomaru enters the office. He takes care to shut the door behind him. Whatever occurs inside this room is a private matter. Mr. Ueda will make sure things stay that way.

Two figures are seated on the couch. When he enters, Kagome’s eyes find his. Her surprise turns to relief. He grants her a brief smile before taking in the second person. The woman across from Kagome has her back to him.

Slowly, his uninvited guest rotates around, offering him a soft grin. If she believes such tactics will excuse her lack of etiquette, she is mistaken. “Oh, my beloved son,” she claps her hands together, feigning surprise. “You’ve finally decided to grace us with your presence.”

“Mother, we do not have an appointment.”

“Do I need one?”

“It would be appreciated. As I mentioned yesterday, my schedule is quite full.”

She waves at him dismissively. “Fine.” His mother faces Kagome. “I suppose we’ll have dinner by ourselves. What time do you sign off?”

Kagome leans to the side, glancing beyond his mother to gauge his reaction.

“Oh, don’t worry about Sesshomaru. He may be your boss at work but he can’t tell you what to do after hours, can he?”

“He would never,” Kagome hastily replies. “It’s just that we…well, I already have plans with Sesshomaru— erm, Mr. Taisho for the evening. Maybe we could meet up for a meal another time?”

“Of course!” His mother withdraws her phone from her purse. “Give me your number. I’ll have my assistant set something up for this weekend.”

“We have a prior conflict,” Sesshomaru tells her.

His mother shoots him a look. “All weekend? Are you two going away?”

“No, no, nothing like that,” Kagome assures her. “I work at my family’s shrine on the weekends. It’s undergoing renovations. Sesshomaru has been helping us.”

He catches a hint of his mother’s knowing smirk surfacing. “Is that so? Have you introduced Sesshomaru to your parents?”

His nostrils flare. Arisu Aikawa has a talent for manipulating situations for her benefit. When used in the boardroom, it results in a successful acquisition. In situations such as this, it is intrusive.

“We had tea with my grandfather, mother, and brother last weekend,” Kagome confirms, falling right into the trap.

“It must have gone well if you’re returning this weekend,” she says, directing her gaze at Sesshomaru.

“He made a great first impression.”

“I’m glad to hear it. As a mother, you always worry about your children, regardless of their age. Sesshomaru is my only pup. His happiness is my primary concern. I’ve been so worried about him. He tends to take on everything alone.”

Sesshomaru moves to stand between them. He needs to intervene before his mother continues. What she is disguising as concern is actually a ploy for demands. She will take advantage of Kagome’s kindness to get what she wants.

“We have that in common.”

He freezes.

Kagome smiles at his mother and then drops her gaze to her marked hand. “He’s teaching me how to accept help and I’ve agreed to do the same for him. Our relationship might seem unconventional but I think growing together is the best way to build a strong foundation.”

Sesshomaru has never witnessed anyone astound his mother. Arisu is a daiyokai of poise, power, and prestige. She does not get flustered. When she makes a move, the outcome is already determined. His mother never enters a negotiation without studying her opponent. She pinpoints weaknesses and motivators to devise her strategy.

Those tactics are ineffective against Kagome. Sesshomaru should know. She disarmed him without even trying.

“I lost my father early in life. I was forced to grow up so I could help raise my younger brother. Once he was self-sufficient, I found others who needed support— my best friend, lower-ranked yokai, hanyos —anyone who was struggling. I got so used to taking care of others, I forgot to take care of myself.”

Kagome takes a breath and looks at his mother. “I know this probably worries you. Sesshomaru is a daiyokai and the CEO of your former mate’s corporation. To you, it must seem like I’m using him to get my family out of debt. I can tell you that is not my intention but you have no reason to believe me. We’ve only just met. My only option is to prove it to you.” She reaches across the couch to take Arisu’s hand. “Please allow me time to show you I sincerely care for your son based on who he is, not his title or position.”

Silence hangs over the trio. Sesshomaru clenches his fists at his side. He does not require his mother’s approval to be with Kagome. She has nothing to prove— to his mother, Touga, or anyone else. He chose her. His mother can accept his decision or remove herself from his life. Sesshomaru will not be swayed.

Arisu begins to laugh. “What a delight you are!” His hands unfurl. It seems he has no reason to be concerned. “She told me you were different but I wanted an opportunity to see it for myself.”

Kagome’s face clouds with confusion.

“She?” Sesshomaru questions.

“I told you I’ve been seeing someone,” his mother reminds him.

“Who?” he questions expectantly.

“Kagura Naraku.”

Sesshomaru is certain he must have misheard. He wonders if Mr. Ueda installed a camera in his office. Is this a hoax? Is his assistant retaliating against him for all of the late nights Sesshomaru has forced him to work?

Kagome’s eyes are wide. “You’re Arisu Aikawa? The same Arisu Kagura’s been seeing?”

His mother winks. “The one and only.”

Kagome squeals and lunges forward to embrace his mother. “I’m so excited to finally meet you!”

“The feeling is mutual,” his mother responds, patting her gently on the back while Sesshomaru pinches himself.

This must be a dream or some new form of kitsune illusion. His mother cannot possibly be dating Onigumo Naraku’s eldest daughter. It is too big of a coincidence. “When did this start?” he inquires.

“Naraku is always inviting me to events. I’ve never accepted. I don’t associate with snakes.”

Her distaste for Onigumo Naraku is matched by his own. Sesshomaru is surprised his mother would bother to meet with him. There is nothing for her to gain from a partnership with Spyder Tech. “What made you change your mind?”

“His lead researcher was looking for a change. I went to see if I could convince him to join me.”

“You went to poach.”

His mother shrugs, unaffected by his blunt rebuttal. “Call it what you want. I saw an opportunity and I acted.“

“Are you referring to networking or dating?”

The edges of her mouth pull upward. “You’re one to question my ethics. Isn’t Ms. Higurashi an employee of Taisho Enterprises?”

Kagome’s face turns red.

“Oh, don’t worry,” Arisu says, patting her hand. “I’m not about to report you to HR.”

“It would not matter if you did. I have already cleared our relationship with their department,” Sesshomaru informs her.

His mother’s eyebrows rise, then she smiles. “You always did plan two steps ahead. I suppose you’ve already introduced Kagome to your father.”

He stiffens. Kagome does not notice his reaction but his mother does. She quickly changes course. “Of course, I wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to keep her to yourself. It’s more fun to learn about each other than from each other if you know what I mean.” She smirks.

“I prefer to keep my private life private,” Sesshomaru says.

“Then perhaps you would consider transferring Kagome to my company.”

“No.”

“Why not? I’m certain I could offer her a better role then— what is it you do here?” she asks Kagome.

“I work in the Client Relations department.”

“As a manager?”

“No, I’m an individual contributor.”

Arisu scoffs. “It’s beneath you.” She takes a business card from her pocket. “Come work for me and I’ll make you a director. Better title, pay, and a better boss.”

Sesshomaru crosses the room to his desk. “I am calling security. Naraku may have allowed you to steal his employees. I will not.”

Kagome stands. “That’s not necessary.” She hands the business card back to his mother. “Ms. Aikawa, you’re very generous. I appreciate your offer but I have to refuse. I’m happy here.”

“Even though Mr. Takumi attempted to get you fired?” 

She gasps. “How did you hear about that?”

“Are you spying on me, mother?” Sesshomaru inquires.

“How else do you expect me to know what’s going on in your life?” his mother counters, returning the business card to her purse. 

“Ask.”

“Perhaps, I would if I saw you more often.” His mother smiles at Kagome. “Thank you for talking sense into my son. It’s been ages since we’ve shared a meal.”

He watches Kagome’s face light up. Suddenly, the annoyance he feels towards his mother no longer requires action. He is grateful this meeting— however uncomfortable — has put Kagome at ease. Her pulse rate has returned to normal and her scent is no longer tainted by fear.

“Next time you’ll have to join us,” Arisu adds. “Kagura too. Most families get together weekly, don’t they?”

“Mine does,” Kagome agrees.

His mother grins. “Lovely. I’ll have my assistant make a reservation for Sunday.”

“We have plans,” Sesshomaru reminds her.

“If you’re going to be working all day, you’ll need to have a substantial meal. I’m sure you could spare a couple of hours in the morning to meet up before the renovations start.”

Kagome looks at him before replying, “Sesshomaru and I will talk about it. Can we let you know later this week?”

His mother appears amused. “Of course. You have my number.” She turns to him, observing the way his focus stays on Kagome. “I need to be going. You’re not the only one with a demanding schedule,” she tells Sesshomaru. She stands and Kagome follows. “I look forward to your call.”

“It was nice meeting you.”

“The pleasure was mine.” Arisu pauses at the door. “Sesshomaru.”

“Mother.”

They exchange nods and she departs.

Sesshomaru takes her seat on the couch and gestures for Kagome to join him. She settles down across from him. “Interesting meeting today. Very informative.”

“Are you talking about the presentation or the interruption?”

“Both.”

“Did you already speak to Mr. Takumi?”

“I did.”

“And?”

“He is no longer an employee here.”

Kagome’s eyes go wide. “You fired him?”

“He created a hostile work environment. It was grounds for termination. His departure leaves a vacancy in the department. Mr. Tsujitani will be opening a requisition for his replacement, which leads me to why I asked you to meet with me. We would like you to apply for the role. Are you interested?” 

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

If this morning someone told Kagome things would end up like this, she would have laughed. It’s surreal to believe Mr. Takumi is gone. Even more surprising is the fact Sesshomaru wants her to succeed him.

Kagome would be lying if she said she hadn’t thought about it. A change in leadership would improve the department. She’s confident in her abilities to drive the team to success. However, there is no guarantee Kagome will be awarded the position.

Mr. Takumi’s allegations were unfounded, but HR could view appointing her as a liability. Of course, she could also argue not being promoted is retaliation. There are several moves and countermoves available. Kagome must decide which path to take.

It would be easier to think if her thoughts weren’t so jumbled. Mr. Takumi’s departure isn’t the only thing weighing on her mind.

Meeting Sesshomaru’s mother was unexpected. Arisu Aikawa is as stunning in person as she appears in photos. Kagome can see why Kagura admires her. She possesses beauty and wit. Her physical traits aren’t the only commonality between her and her son. They both have a sharp tongue and even sharper intellect. Watching the pair banter is akin to watching tennis players volley.

Is it really a coincidence the woman Kagura has been seeing is Sesshomaru’s mother? It seems too perfect. Kagura finds love and sets Kagome up to do the same. She didn’t expect Kagome to fall for Sesshomaru. Given Kagura’s reaction, Kagome wonders if her roommate is aware of their connection.

Kagome blushes as she recalls jokingly telling Kagura to ask Arisu if she has a handsome son. That night feels like part of the distant past. If Kagome didn’t have the suit to prove it, she would think it was a dream.

No, Kagura definitely wouldn’t have knowingly set her up with Sesshomaru. Her roommate is cunning but not cruel.

It’s likely Arisu hasn’t told her. Considering how she behaved in Sesshomaru’s office, Kagome suspects his mother plays her cards close to the chest. Her caution is understandable. Touga’s abandonment destroyed Arisu’s ability to trust anyone, including those she cares for. She sees control as stability.

Sesshomaru is the same.

Kagome shakes her head, grinning. She can’t believe she didn’t recognize Arisu sooner. The pair of them are more alike than Sesshomaru will admit.  Everything from their appearance to the way they carry themselves and their attitude is similar. Kagome can’t wait to see Kagura’s face when she finds out she stood up for her girlfriend’s son.

“What are you smiling about?”

She jerks in her desk chair, finding Mr. Inada hovering at the edge of her cubicle.

He leans in. “That was a dirty trick you played today, Higurashi.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Mr. Inada’s lip curls. “You may have Mr. Tsujitani fooled but I know better. You don’t belong here.”

“You have it backward. It’s you who doesn’t belong. This is the Client Relations department, not Marketing.“

His nostrils flare and he grabs her wrist. “I’ll teach you—.”

“Mr. Inada.”

Instantly, he drops Kagome’s hand and withdraws from her cube. “Mr. Tsujitani.”

Their VP looks between them, trying to assess the situation. “Is there a problem?”

“No, there—.”

Mr. Tsujitani cuts him off. “I was asking Ms. Higurashi.”

“There seems to be a misunderstanding about Mr. Takumi’s departure.”

Subtlety, Mr. Tsujitani glances around the department. Almost everyone is pretending to work. Their gaze may be on the screens in front of them, but their attention is fixated on his conversation with Kagome and Mr. Inada.

“Allow me to clarify what happened. Mr. Takumi violated corporate policy. Based on the severity of his actions, he was terminated. A formal announcement will be released before the close of business today. If you have questions or concerns, please direct them to me or Ms. Kuwashima in HR.”

Several people nod and resume working. A handful, like Ando and Mio, wait for Mr. Inada to leave Kagome’s cubicle. He doesn’t.

“Do you have anything you’d like to add, Mr. Inada?”

“No,” he grumbles.

“Good.” Mr. Tsujitani pats him on the back before draping his arm over the man’s shoulders to lead him out. As Mr. Tsujitani turns, he gives Kagome a wink.

She stares, shocked he would openly tease her but touched by the support. It’s gratifying to know not all the company leaders think poorly of her.

The instant they’re gone, Mio rushes over. “Oh my gosh, Kagome, are you okay?”

Ando is right behind her. “You should file a complaint with HR. He can’t grab you. It’s harassment!”

“I’m fine,” she assures them.

“You’re lucky Mr. Tsujitani was here,” Ando points out.

Mio nods. “Mr. Inada won’t do anything in front of him. He knows he’d be fired.”

“He should still be fired,” Ando mutters.

“Touching someone without their consent is wrong. Doing it at work is unacceptable. You should talk to Ms. Kuwashima. I’ll walk you to her office if you want,” Ando offers.

Kagome waves him off. “That’s alright.”

She hasn’t interacted with Ms. Kuwashima much. Apart from her initial onboarding, Kagome has only needed to meet with the Director of HR twice. The first was when she reported Mr. Inada for tampering with a female coworker’s drink. The second— and most recent —was when she and Sesshomaru disclosed their relationship. Kagome doesn’t want Ms. Kuwashima to think she expects special treatment.

“You can’t let this go,” Mio insists. “Mr. Inada crossed a line. You need to report him, otherwise he’ll keep acting out. Next time, he might target someone else.”

She bites her lower lip. Mio has a valid point. If Kagome lets him get away with this, she’d be as bad as Mr. Takumi. Reporting him could ruin her chances of becoming manager but remaining silent would be worse. Her coworkers are right. She needs to speak up— if not for herself, for the sake of her team.