Thank you for the few comments. Thank you for following the story and enduring my slow updates. I am on nights at work for the rest of the month, hopefully I can hammer out a nice long chapter with all of this quiet time.

I do not own Inuyasha, but I do own this story.

Behind Closed Eyes

Chapter 8

Back to Reality

Monday morning came too quickly, her alarm chiming to wake her to the new day. She was reluctant, for once, to leave the warmth of the bed and child next to her. Their weekend had been marvelous. She had neglected the papers from Sango and spent her days off playing with the children. She had even convinced Sesshomaru not only to let Rin have those days away from school work but also for him to join them.

She had not gone to retrieve her belongings from the house nor had she turned on her cell phone. Work had reached her in the late hours of the night as she set up for the following week, but that never bothered her. She had spent the days in bliss and would gladly do a little work to keep the happiness continuing. Shippou had not once left her side, telling her about everything and anything that ran through his mind.

The plush of the bed under her body and the warmth of the kit next to her caused her to linger, unable to leave the dream she was living. How did people go to work after spending so much time with their children? She understood now why so many mothers stayed at home and did not work. This was the life, to stay all day and play and learn with the kit. She sighed and behind closed eyes she day-dreamed about the weekend.

She had awoken Friday to a slight headache, not accustomed to drinking champagne and staying up so late. She had dreamt the whole night about grand balls and dancing the night away. The formal dinner was a naughty treat for her for she knew there would never be another opportunity. That had definitely sent some sadness through her heart. The night had been absolutely amazing and had made her long for more. Ugh. She moved out of the bed and readied herself before waking the child. They started the day happily enough, dragging Rin and Sesshomaru all around town with them from parks to ice cream and then finally back for a dinner that she had prepared. Everyone had been in high spirits even if Sesshomaru spent the time mostly quiet.

Saturday had passed even faster than Friday. She had risen before the sun was out and had made coffee and breakfast before anyone had made their way downstairs. The thrill of another day with the kids was obviously affecting her physically. The kids were thrilled for another day of excitement when she announced that they were all, Sesshomaru included, going to take the small trip to the aquarium. He had no idea she could be so dominate and it was slightly thrilling. She was surprising him at every turn and he was growing in his affections.

He had made the final decision on mode of transport, preferring to take his own vehicle instead of public transport. She agreed it would suit them better. They spent all day at the aquarium, going through the exhibits multiple times before taking a break for their picnic lunch and returning once again for more rounds to see all of the marine life that there was to offer. They left a couple hours before closing, Kagome insisting on driving home. She stopped first for dinner, Shippou's favorite, at a ramen noodle shop. After everyone had eaten and was happily sated, she make quick work of finding her favorite bakery for bread then going into a market for wine, cheese, and fruit. Sesshomaru wondered but never asked until they arrived back at the house. The kids ran off to get changed for bed before Kagome ever asked him if he would join her for conversation and wine in the library that had held a few card games the night before. He accepted her offer, confused by what all of this could mean for him.

Each had gone about their night time rituals before retiring to the library. Both in pajamas, they sat on opposite sides of the couch. A maid had put together their tray and chilled the wine. She was appreciating every glorious second of having help to manage tasks such as this. She had spent no time thinking of what she would miss when she found her own place, instead staying thankful for everything. They spent hours sitting on the couch. Kagome did most of the talking, but he enjoyed it just the same. He spoke about his father and lightly touched on feudal japan when their reign was at it's lowest before the kingdoms came to a peace truce.

Sunday was spent within the same comfort. They spent the day at the house, running around the back yard and gardens. Sesshomaru's mother had shown up during lunch and sat to chat for a while, watching the children play from the garden furniture they sat on. He had kept a close eye on her, looking for any sign of emotion towards Kagome. He had been unsure what his mother would think of the situation and had neglected to confide in her. Though he never confided in her anyway.

She opened her eyes to her kit staring blankly at her. "Good morning."

"Does momma work today?" He looked a bit sad.

"Yes sir, momma is going to work today." She sat up, dreading going through the day.

He pouted but jumped off the bed and began to get ready for the day. She had told him that he would be spending the day with Rin and Kaede while she was at work. Today would be over as soon as she finished her few meetings and caught up with the international work group.

They were ready in a flash, breakfast finished, and out the door before the others had finished their food. Shippou dropped off and kisses given, she left for work. Unfortunately for her, work was not what she was expecting.

With a little pep in her step and a song on her mind, Kagome hummed while walking from the elevator. There were normal morning greetings from the people she passed but nothing from Kagura. She looked around, in search for the woman but found the desk empty and cleaned of all personal belongings. There was a note taped to the door. She took it inside before opening the neat fold, "How dare you lie to me and try to take my Sesshomaru's heart! Kikyou told me everything and I cannot work for someone like you, I quit!"

She was almost in tears, furious that everything could not be left well enough alone. Here she was, finally picking up the pieces after a few days of rest and play with her adopted son and friends and she had to walk straight into bad news. This was beyond unreasonable and confounded her. She had needed a place to rest and he had offered, there was nothing between them. Or is it my imagination that sparks are beginning to show in the cold pit of our hearts? Kagura was her friend! She would have never lied to her, especially about Sesshomaru who had just broken her heart. The door quietly closed behind her before she noticed the flowers on her desk. Unconsciously hoping they were from someone in particular, she walked to the display and opened the waiting card. I'm sorry. She knew immediately they were from Inuyasha.

The flowers quickly found a new home by the single window. Should she trash the flowers? She opened the blinds before returning to her desk to start the day. It was a slow pick up, the reports from the past few days did not interest her in the least. She was just eager to get back to the fun. Who knew I would like to be home more than work! She had surprised herself.

She found more interest in the emails pertaining to the Tengu company. They had apparently come to a definite consent on Friday about the field work Sesshomaru had suggested. There were a few stipulations. There could only be two people. Those two persons have to have a sensitivity and understanding of the mountains. They must respect the land and the people. She was excited to talk at the meeting about who they could send. She had two field agents in mind, but it would have to be a group meeting with all of the other heads leading this research. He would play the most important role. If he chose the wrong person or condescended her then they could end up back at square one with the other company and most likely lose to the other bidding company.

The ringing of her office phone made her jump from her seat. "Higurashi; research and development."

"I walked into my office today to find a resignation." He did not sound very pleased.

"Is it Kagura's?" she was beginning to worry.

"Did you know about this?" he did not sound happy with her response.

"No, she left a note for me as well, stating that she could not work for me any longer." She had left out the unpleasant parts, no reason for that to be involved.

He took a deep breath, "There are a few things I need to mention before we head to the meeting. First, on her resignation she stated she found a better position somewhere else." He paused long enough for the information to sink in. "Second, I have made the executive decision to move Inuyasha into another department that no longer has a footing in the company's ability to grow and expand."

The paused and end of sentence left her wondering if there was more, but there was not. He mentioned he would see her at the meeting and hung up. I had delusions about feelings with THIS guy? I am losing it. Maybe he would mention hiring a new secretary after the meeting or tonight after they both returned to the house. Thinking of going back to the house together made her remember the papers from Sango. She still had yet to turn her cell phone back on and had completely lost the papers from Sango. Shit!

The rest of the morning picked up pace. The first meeting flew by, all good notations and progress. By the time she noticed her hunger, it was time for her last meeting of the day. She stood from her desk to go over to the flowers. The opened the window as far as the safety bar would let her and she ripped the full buds and blooms off and tossed them away. They separated and spiraled down. Maybe they can bring wonder and joy to a passerby.

She gathered her notes and made the quick progress up to the board room. She was a bit early to take advantage of a free space to set up her notes and slides on the board. The only thing she was missing was the physical presence of her suggested research pair. She had spent so much time enjoying her time off that she had forgotten to call them back to the office and prep them. Oh well, my presentation will just have to do. Especially since I speak last.

She entered the room, lost in thought and oblivious to the other occupant. He watched her silently from the coffee machine. She laid out papers and logged in to the computer, setting up the few slides of information she had available. When did she have the time to do all of this after the meeting Wednesday? He cleared his throat and she visibly jumped.

"I am so sorry Mr. So'unga!" She had gone back to formalities. "I had not realized you were in here yet."

"Please, Kagome, continue." He hoped using a less formal approach would open her back up to him. He thought back to the weekend, when he had amazed even himself. They had spent so much time together and he had even opened up a bit. They had even neglected to fetch her belongings like they had plan originally. The moments turned memories would stay with him forever, and even more confirmed what he has suspected before; he had never stopped having feelings for the woman and knew there was a possibility that they could grow in intensity. Would she accept his offer tonight?

"I was just setting out my notes. I did not have time to call in my field agents to meet with the Tengus, they will just have to be met with another day." She finished her small tasks and sat down in a chair near his designated seat.

What if he sat next to her? She felt silly for the butterflies, knowing her delusions of grandeur and fantasies of him whisking her away. Those delusions continued to lead her back to questioning rebounds. Were things feelings considered rebounding? The whole idea was giving her anxiety. Inuyasha had left her feeling ashamed and insecure. Was she looking for acceptance from such a great rejection? Would she be able to open up and become emotionally available or would she lack the ability to make good decisions? She needed to work on letting Inuyasha go, along with the negative emotions associated with him. Maybe Sango could take her to one of the clubs she had mentioned before.

A group of men walked into the room, all chatting quietly to each other, all assistants left behind. Seats were taken and the meeting starting. Inutashio So'Unga spoke first, welcoming each person individually and assuring all good things to come on both ends before going into a lecture about the importance of finding the perfect research pair. He said he had left the choice up to herself and his eldest son, having great confidence in their abilities. Sesshomaru was next, he expressed his thanks for meeting and his intention of going out for a couple of celebratory drinks when they decided on the field agents. The Tengus took his seriousness for light joking and chuckled a little. He had ignored him and continued on.

He opened up the floor to her and she stood, referencing her notes and their excitement to begin the project. Every opportunity was a chance for her to insert her knowledge on field research to try to help the other members feel comfortable in her decisions. By the end of the slides and notes, the group of crow youkai were talking amongst themselves after apologizing for any interruption.

"I believe we have heard enough." The eldest of the group spoke. "We enjoyed and appreciated all of the effort and time you all have put into this meeting. Unfortunately we have to reject the suggested agents for the project. However, we do have a suggestion to replace them if that would be alright."

"Certainly, we would love to provide whatever means and people you would need to conduct proper field research on your terms." Mr. So'unga spoke calmly, ever the peaceful business man.

"We would like Ms. Higuashi to be one agent. She has shown previous experience and education on the subjects and seems to have a very obvious passion for the mountainous regions we hail from." She was at a loss for words, this was an amazing opportunity they offered her. "Secondly, we would like to have someone else with such appreciation for the land and with more authority then she holds for the shear purpose of the person understanding the importance of this research." He paused to listen to the others speak. She caught a few words which sounded to be in another language. "Mr. So'unga, we would like your son to join her. We will allow a group to bring the necessary equipment and items needed but only two may stay on the mountain for the duration of the project."

Mr. So'unga accepted for both of them. Her mouth fell slightly open in disbelief. She could not stay out there with that man, especially with how he made her feel. This was dangerous. On the other side of the table from her, Sesshomaru was thinking the same thing.

The group declined drinks, saying it was bad for their acute eye sight, and they all parted ways. Sesshomaru did not stop to speak to her, instead left for his office immediately and packed up for the day. She did the same, taking the little bits of time to send out a few emails and set up her next day. I hope I can replace Kagura soon.

They ended up at the a few minutes apart from one another, Sesshomaru having sent her a text about picking up the children. He was sitting on the pack patio watching them when she walked out, uneasy about the confrontation that will ensue.

"I'm sorry about how the meeting went. I will mention tomorrow that I cannot attend and give one of my field agents the chance." She was fiddling with her fingers, staying out of his view by the door behind him.

"I believe that what Karasu said was accurate and extremely true. You have the experience as any other agent would. The difference is your passion and loyalty to the cause. You would be going to save their land, not because you were told to." There must be others out there who would care as much as her! She was beginning to fear their impending time together.

"If you are certain. I am sorry for any disrespect." She walked passed him, in search of the hiding children.

He grabbed her wrist. "There was no disrespect." He looked up at her, his amber orbs seeming have turned liquid. "I believe that we will work well together and our time will be well spent. They have made great observations and know we will be fine."

She shook her head and slipped from his grasp, turning instead for the house. "Sorry for any disrespect once more, but I feel as if you are trying to draw the path I am taking and it is not appreciated."

The door closed behind her, her mind reeling. Shippou would return with Rin to the house. She just needed a moment to think. The project was just in the makings with no definitely length set forth, but she knew for sure that it would start next week. The equipment would be sent out and sent up at a hut outside of the village on Sunday; work would begin Monday. That had been in an email correspondence she had seen over the weekend. The quicker they began, the easier they could get ahead and begin the merger.

Would she be clear minded enough to do this? Messing this up would cost her everything and ruin her reputation. She had worked too hard to fail. Emotions or not, she would prevail.

They took dinner in the kitchen again, Kikuko has prepared every part of their simple meal. The dining room was obviously kept vacant save for the occasional dinner party. She much preferred the close quarters of the kitchen to the vast hollowness of the other room, even with four people sitting at the table.

There was no conversation aside form pleasantries. Everyone ate and went their separate ways, ending the night early. She was exhausted emotionally and her little kit was tired from his first day with Kaede and Rin. Once they were in the room he could not stop talking. His day was marvelous and full of so much learning fun. He told her about how what he had already been taught helped me to catch up with Rin's studies even though she was a year older. Youkai children were very intelligent and picked things up quicker than human children did. Rin was intelligent within books beyond her age even for a human. They bathed and went through their nightly ritual before heading to bed, cuddled together.

Sesshomaru paced his room. He had tucked Rin into bed following a story before retiring himself. The night had not gone as he had hoped; nor had the meeting. The results from the meeting were not unwelcomed, but it had obviously unsettled Kagome. She had not acted the way she had over the past few days at dinner and had hidden after she returned from work. He was worried and the over encumber thoughts caused him to forget about his question. He would need to act soon or she would be moving away when he wanted to bring her closer.

The morning came as it always did, bringing the beating rays of sunshine. It was warmer outside than it had been recently. She was glad, opening the windows to let in the fresh air. Shippou was stirring at the first bird song. Bouncing on the bed with anticipation for his second day with Rin. What am I going to tell him about me going away for a while?

She left early with both children in tow. After speaking briefly with Kaede she headed to work, apprehensive about the details that would surely come about today. Details turned into full blown plans and an itinerary. She would have limited access to internet service and would not be able to do her normal daily duties. There would be phone service but it was limited. The Tengu were extremely timid of outsiders and having modern technology scared the ones who had never seen outside of the mountain.

She pulled one of her uppers, Yuka, into her office and ran through things. Yuka spent the whole day with her and had planned on spending the rest of her days at work, before the project, at her side. She gave detailed written instructions as well as rules to follow. Her office would be lock and only Mr. So'Unga would have the means to access the room. She emailed only the information necessary and planned on phoning daily to check in. She reached out to the international branch with intention of her absence and how to reach her in an emergency. They were to continue sending all reports and updates and to follow through with the instructions she was attaching. She requested through HR for a new secretary.

She felt like she had not achieved enough by the time the meeting came around. It was decided. They would be going out multiple times for set durations. The first would be a week then they would bring the information back to the lab to assessment and to catch up at the office before setting out again four weeks later for another week stint. The meeting concluded with what information would be top priority before they could branch out to their other priorities. They were also to have Thursday and Friday off. She was excited to be back in the field but upset to be away from her kit and to be with someone who confused her.

The next two days passed in a blur. She was training someone to be a temp. The temp had absolutely no power and only purpose was to collect and organize all of the information for when she returned. She would play catch up when she returned. Every once in a while during the day her mind wandered to him. They rarely talked after work; only eating dinner and retiring to their individual rooms.

Thursday came and she woke, having decided to let Shippou stay back from school. She realized Rin was allowed the same treat when she heard the girl singing of play time. The children raced to the kitchen, having forgotten the adults. She kept her head down, watching their feet as she walked.

"Kikuko is going to take the children for the day. Would you join me in the gardens?" He had spent the past few days berating himself for shying away from her. He honestly had no clue how to handle what was happening. All of this was new to him.

"After breakfast?" Her stomach growled.

"Right now." He waited only a moment for her agreeing head nod before taking her by the elbow and leading the way. He had asked a maid to set up the meal of fruit and pastries, hoping this would lighten the mood. He wanted to make her comfortable, like she was the previous weekend.

She was taken aback at his lack of demands. Had her words gotten through to some part of him? They ate and he tried to make conversation, his effort transparent. He had shown the miniscule bit of effort but still had not followed through with an apology; she tried to look past that. By the end of the meal they were chatting with ease. He was even graced with a few smiles. She finished after him, drinking all of the orange juice and water he had poured for her.

"Thank you for the beautiful meal. If Kikuko has the children today, I am going to go to the house and get some things. I still do not have all of my belongs or even clothing. I need more than suits and pajamas for this field expedition." She tried to make it a joke.

He extended his hand to help her up after standing and righting himself. "If you would like, I will accompany you and call the moving truck." She took his extended hand.

"No need for a truck, I will purchase new items. I just want my clothes and small items." She did not fully refuse his offer of help, however, even though she refused the moving truck.

He wanted to asked her to just stay with him and he would purchase new everything for her, but restrained himself. This was not the time. No matter how bad at affections he was, he could still feel the lingering tension between them. He conceded to no truck but insisted on driving and bringing his large Hummer.

The trip over made her nervous; clammy palms and pressure in her chest included. She did not want to have to deal with Inuyasha again and she was praying Kikyou was not there, already in the house. She asked him not to fight if anything were to happen.

She had gotten lucky. The house was empty when they pulled up. Both exited the vehicle and walked up to the doors. Unlocked, per usual Inuyasha. He was so careless. She looked around through the dim lighting. The house was exactly how she had seen it last, maybe even more destroyed than before. Thankfully the front yard had been cleaned and the window repaired.

She felt the need to repeat herself, just in case. "Please don't fight with Inuyasha if you see him, just ignore him please."

He followed her all the way to her room and through the door. "I'm going to go get some boxes and some suitcases, sit if you want to."

He half listened, going to the closet and finding all of her clothes. His arms were long enough to carry half of her wardrobe, holding tightly against himself. He set everything on the bed after a couple more trips and began removing hangers. When she returned he began packing them neatly in suit cases. She went to the bathroom and packed the remaining hygiene and beauty products in a box. The night stand was next followed by her dresser drawers. He began making trips to the car while she finished packing the small things. Looking around the room, however, she found the she actually wanted some of the larger things.

She sighed and began moving things from one side of the room to the other. The sudden noise from him made her jump. Goose flesh crawling across her arms and neck. "I could have moved the items for you."

"It is just the trunk and vanity. I had forgotten that I had these antiques." She turned to sit on the trunk. "I guess I would like to take you up on the offer; I need the moving truck."

He pulled out his cell phone and sent a few text messages. "Is there anything else?" Click click, he took some photos of the items.

She led him around the house and he snapped pictures. He assured her that he had sent a text for the moving truck to be sent and that the pictures would ensure they could grab things without her being there. She was grateful for the thoughtfulness.

The movers came and loaded up. She felt like she did not take a lot, but the house definitely looked emptier than before. A few items were gone from every room. The trunk, vanity, patio set, vintage pictures, Shippou's few items, the wardrobe hutch, some fragile collectibles, and some other miscellaneous things. She was extremely excited she had taken his offer of the moving truck, even if it was last minute.

They buckled in and left the house in the rear view mirror. She watched it disappear with the distance, wishing her memories would stay with the items she left. Doubtful, she turned towards the scene outside of the window. Everything passed so quickly, matching her thoughts. In just a couple of days they would be in the mountains studying the terrain. She would be able to handle field work once more and it was a thrilling thought. They would be sharing a small living space but it would be worth it. She would miss Shippou, but she would call when the chance was available.

Her head snapped in his direction. They would be sharing a living space. A small hut in the woods. This was not a large house with separate rooms for everything. Would there even be separate bedrooms? Red painted her cheeks and she could feel it traveling down her neck. This was bad. His eyes met hers as he came to a stop at a light.

"Are you well? Your face and neck are red." He raised a perfectly shaped eye brow.

She squeaked, unsure how to proceed before word vomit happened. "Will we be sharing a room in the mountains?"

His eyes widened. Apparently he had not thought of the sleeping arrangements. "I have not looked into arrangements." He took a breath. "I will sleep in the vehicle if the arrangements are unsatisfactory."

She did not feel relieved, but turned her attention once more to the outside world. The car started moving again. Still unsure what to make of the impending adventure, she began to trail off in thought. Behind closed eyes and shallow breaths, she saw their trip together and even had a small fantasy.

He looked over to her, noticing her body relax into sleep. What was he to do? She was worried about the sleeping arrangements and he had not even bothered to ask when the initial deal was proposed. They would make do. He would ensure she was comfortable the whole time they were alone. The car pulled to the front of the house, a male attendant waiting on the steps. He turned off the car and woke Kagome.

"We are home." He opened the door and let himself out.

She stirred, immediately flustered that she had even fallen asleep. Scrambling out of the car, she grabbed a few bags and rushed into the house and to her room. The bags landed against the wall by the door and she landed in the bathroom, washing her face and hands. She had to stop embarrassing herself in front of him. His deep voice and knock brought her out of the bathroom. She pointed to where the items he had were going. He complied and left the room. No other words were exchanged until dinner time.

"Kagome?" She had been staring blankly at the food until he spoke.

"Hmm?" She looked up with a smile.

"I called to find if anyone know about the arrangements and they promised to call the Tengu for further information." He was hoping this would ease her distress.

"Thank you." She looked to the confused children.

They had both been told that the adults were going on a work trip in the mountains, but no one went into details. Shippou had clammed up when she spoke about the mountains and she did not force a continuance. She figured if Rin wanted to know more, she could ask Sesshomaru in private. The children began talking again, excited to tell about their day. So much playing and joy. It was marvelous how close of friends they became in such a short amount of time. Kikuko had apparently taught them a new game today, Jacks. It was an old game that every human and most younger youkai had played but it never grew old. Tomorrow they were going to learn to play marbles. The maid was teaching them traditional games. I wonder how old she really is.

"May I speak with you in private?" Dinner had ended and he had stopped her from leaving.

"Shall we meet in the study? I want to get Shippou settled for bed." The change between asking and demanding was showing more and more for him.

She left the room hand in hand with her child. Half way through the short walk to the room, Shippou had insisted on being carried. She conceded with a smile and kissed his head the whole walk, telling him how much she loved him. He was growing too quickly for her own liking. She wanted to baby him a bit more, but here he was, learning and playing and acting independent all the way up until bed time. He was laid on the bed and helped to dress before she took careful consideration of her own clothes. It is just pajamas! She was antsy none the less. She tucked Shippou into bed with her tablet, a quiet movie playing for him to calm down to.

He had stayed behind and grabbed two glasses, a bucket filled with ice, and a bottle of wine. The items were left in the study before he took Rin upstairs. He handed the child her clothes and left to dress himself. Meticulous in his decision, even down to his lack of socks and only slippers. He returned to Rin's room to tuck her in. She was left with her television on her favorite show. They met in the study, both in pajamas ready for bed.

She is radiant. She had come down in purple skull pants and a match tank top. He had chosen the same style, his pants silky and black with a matching button up shirt. She was sitting in a lounge chair, feet tucked half under her. He was tempted to sit next to her, close enough that her feet would brush his thigh. What am I doing? Instead he sat across from her after pouring each of them a glass of wine. She gently accepted the offering.

"What did you want to speak about?" She spoke from behind her glass, hiding her mouth and chin.

He was at a loss for words, almost floundering at how to start the conversation. "I have your papers for your search for a new place to live." Shit.

"I was wondering where I had left them during the excitement last week." She finished off her glass of wine.

He reached over to refill her glass. "I am not staying what I mean." He took the opportunity to move to sit next to her. She moved her legs and he instantly wished she had not.

"What do you mean? I promise we are trying to get out of here as soon as we can. I am truly sorry we have burdened you."

"There was never a burden put on me from you." He finished off his own glass, hoping the warmth sent to his stomach would fuel his courage. Never had he backed down from a fight. Never had he ran from confrontation. He was tactful in all aspects, yet here he was blundering through a conversation with a female. "I would like you to throw those papers away and decide to stay here with us."

She dropped her now empty glass to the floor. It broke into multiple pieces and she was immediately over taken by thoughts. Everything rushed to the surface so quickly she began to drown, the world fading into the honey of his words. What was she to say to this? She wanted to live here and explore the feelings he brought up in her but she did not want to bring another heart break in her life. He had already rejected her. Not everything I offered did he reject. He spent the whole weekend with us and even breakfast today.

"Kagome?" He sounded far away then she realized she was dizzy. The world was spinning. "Are you alright?" He was collecting the glass from the floor and putting it in a trash bin. When had he grabbed the bin? When had he moved from beside her?

"I...I...I need a minute." She was stumbling. Goose flesh covered her arms and a slight sheen of sweat was on her brow. He was causing all kinds of reactions in her.

He had cleaned the mess, thankful the glass was empty, and sat back down. His hand rested on her arm as he listened to her increased heart rate. Very rarely did he choose to use his heightened senses. Normally he blocked out the daily noises around him.

"Kagome..." He was making a rash decision, one that could ruin the bud of the flower he was attempting to plant. She looked at him and he leaned forward, pulling her slightly towards him. Then he stopped. He could not kill a spark that had not yet been given enough kindle to really blaze. "Let's get you to bed. I will not pressure you into responding." And then they went to bed.

She found her night filled with dreams of living together, eating meals together, and of their wondrous pending adventure. They caused her to toss and turn, even call out in her sleep. Shippou curled closer to her, afraid she was having nightmares. If only he knew. Deep within her sleep, she began questioning herself openly in front of dream Sesshomaru. Why did I behave as I did? I acted like he just asked me to marry him. Sleep carried through the night, but the day break found her restless and tired. Shippou tried to bring up her energy, pushing her to the kitchen and throughout the whole day they spent together. It passed too quickly and before she knew it, Sunday was upon them.

She was packed and ready to go, apprehensive about the impending alone time. She had yet to answer his question, instead retrieving the papers from him and reading through the listings. In a way, she had answered but she was still unsure herself. By the end of the week, I will tell him we are moving out. We work together, it would be bad to live together.