Whatever It Takes

A/N: Thanks for taking the time to click. This is mainly a Sess/Kag pairing but there will be some Inu/Kag, not much but a tad. It is an AU. I've got to dedicate this to a very dear person that I hold in high regard. This is for Rainbow, love you lots.


Warnings: Angst, Language, Sexual Content and Crude Humor


Chapter One


Every girl’s fantasy was to be surrounded by half naked men. The point was proven as Yumi started to drool and point towards a rather buff brunette walking by. Kagome squinted in the blazing sun to get a good look at this one. He looked just like the girl’s ex except with more meat on his ass. There was always room to admire a guy with a strong physique but she didn’t like them too muscular. More brains than brawn in her opinion.


“What about that one over there?” Sango was the next to point out a male. This one was reclining in a chair drinking some form of cocktail. He had cropped raven hair with a decent form and a killer tan. He also had company. “I wonder which woman is with him.”


“I don’t think the other one is a woman, not with those shoulders.” Kagome couldn’t see his face from this position. It had to be a male, only amazons had shoulders that wide. The rest of him was average, except the hair. Which is what gave the others a reason to speculate. It was stark white, almost silver in context and hung to mid-back. Since boarding yesterday they had seen all kinds of men strolling the deck. From young to old, to hot to ugly and from too manly to very pretty, it was filled with variety.


It was summer break of their senior year, for most of them. She, Sango, Yumi were seniors while Rin was still a junior. The trip had been paid for by Yumi’s parents. She had haggled them into purchasing tickets for at least three of her friends. Her argument was that she wouldn’t be alone while away from home. It had been sound enough for them to agree to the trip and pay for everything. Kagome had hell getting her mother to agree to it. Her grandfather had flipped at the very idea of young girls going off alone on a boat filled with horny males. From the way the old goat had acted he probably still thought they didn’t know what sex was. Unfortunately, Kagome knew all about it. From the start of her freshman year up until two weeks ago she had gone steady with Hojo. He’d been considerate and sweet for a long time, she’d been content to remain his girl. The start of senior year they had taken the final step and gotten intimate. The first time had her doubting her sexuality. The next couple of times she had felt more like a toilet than a woman in need. She just couldn’t bring herself to get excited anymore when he wanted to be close. That had eventually angered him bringing about multiple fights. All it had accomplished was a horrible breakup and a few nasty rumors. So this was her chance to get away from her current problem and relax.


“You may be right but the guy is taken. You can tell by the way he’s looking at his tramp.” Yumi sighed in annoyance, what would it take to get laid? The cruise was only for two days out in the harbor and she hadn’t met a guy yet. They’d be returning tomorrow around noon, she needed some action. “How about that one over there?”


Kagome didn’t bother to see who was being inspected. She hadn’t come on the trip to get laid, neither had Rin. Sango currently had a boyfriend, if you could call him that. Miroku was nice, the problem was he was too nice to anything with a twat. Rin was more into studying than getting hooked up. “You know we’ve been here for over a day and we haven’t checked out the entire ship.”


“Who wants to check out a damn boat when you have all this male flesh roaming about?” Yumi couldn’t believe her friend. What was Kagome’s problem, was she missing Hojo already? “Really Kagome, loosen up and enjoy yourself. We didn’t come to look at the engine. How can you not get excited with all the potential swinging nearby?”


“I’ll be happy as long as it swings anywhere but near me, I’m not looking to get steered. I’m going to take a walk, I’ll catch you guys back at the cabin around dinnertime.” She stood up and stretched. The idea had been to sit around the pool and get a tan, it was the reason she’d worn her bikini. Only a few people were in the pool swimming, everyone else was either lying around drinking, sunbathing or trying to score. There were close to a dozen tables on the far side containing some shaded tables. Her bikini was a sky blue, modest with a sheer waist wrap to cover up that stretching was about to give her a wedgie. After slipping on her sandals she gave Rin an apologetic smile. “I’ll see you later.”


Right now she wanted time alone to think. Viewing the ship was a good excuse to gain some alone time. Sango and Yumi were already going back to being vultures. The cruise ship had three floors for sleeping, it wasn’t that large. A-deck was for those with gold cards, a few were sunning nearby sipping martinis. B-deck was for people like her, well to do but had to splurge for the trip. C-deck was for the employees, or so she’d been told. It had two dining rooms, spa, bar and gambling room. The front of the ship held the pool, while the back area was blocked off. They had strolled by it earlier this morning but she couldn’t make out much. Blue tarp had been placed over whatever was there. From the shape she’d guess it was tables, only six in total. She doubted she’d be able to check it out.


A guy wearing black trunks with a bald head was strolling in her direction. She merely smiled as he nodded in her direction. Walking back would lead her by several of the guys Yumi had been inspecting, including the one with the tramp, as her friend had dubbed the woman. Being only seventeen she still blushed as the guy made it obvious that he was checking her out as she neared. Feeling awkward she tucked a strand of hair that had come loose behind her ear and turned her gaze towards the clear water. A couple was near the edge kissing, instead of swimming. Kagome was at least a good foot away from the edge but could make out the distinct impression of a tongue being crammed into the poor girl’s face. It was worse than watching the guy being crude, so she looked away. As she glanced forward, Baldy was very close, grinning like an idiot. Being polite she smiled as their paths met.


“I bet you taste good.”


“What?” The declaration was loud and clear catching her attention. Was he talking to her? She spun on her heels now that he had passed. He couldn’t have been talking to her, what a pervert! It was worse, he had stopped as well to look at her. How could she not be appalled? As she stared at his audacity he raised his right hand up to his mouth to make a rude gesture using his tongue. Disgusted she spun once more hoping to never see him again. Her temper flared at the mocking chuckle, he was laughing at her embarrassment. As she turned away in a hurry she also stepped forward to put some distance between her and Mr. Nasty. There was a harsh cry of warning to look out before something hard collided with her side.


Sesshoumaru heard only the ‘Watch’ before the weight slammed into his side. It was enough to throw him off balance. He tried to correct his footing but all his shoe found was air, then he was going backwards. There was no way to stop the fall or the water that rushed to surround him. His head cleared the surface as he managed to stand up.


“Oops, I’m so sorry. I didn’t see you,” Kagome felt horrible as she eyed the person she’d managed to bump into. How could she be so clumsy? The person sputtered a loud curse as he used both hands to wipe the moisture from his face. Her gut jerked seeing the startling pale hair, she’d been correct. The victim staring back at her was all male. The clenching of the handsome jaw let her know he wasn’t too happy about going for a dip. She took in the white polo shirt and khaki shorts that were now drenched due to her. Were those designer? He was more than hot, he was glorious. It didn’t matter that his long hair was now clinging to the beautiful face or that he was scowling. With lips that thick the man could make any face he wanted and still be illegal.


“That much is obvious.” He wanted to yell as he climbed out. Not only was he soaked to the gill but Akito was having a laugh at his expense. The man continued to snicker as he got to his feet. What kind of idiot didn’t look where they were going? So much for heading to the dining room to fetch some lunch. His idea of food didn’t dwell in a glass, unlike his friends. He stopped trying to sling the water from his hands in order to get a good look at the person about to receive a good chewing out. What was standing before him was a girl no older than his unwanted brother wearing a frown. Long raven hair was pulled up in a high ponytail, a few strands had escaped to frame an angelic face. Big blue eyes got wider as he looked her over. The bikini was probably the most modest he’d seen all day but it gave a clear indication of an exceptional figure. His blood heated as she smiled in apology.


“It was completely my fault, sorry.” She felt like an idiot. How could she have not noticed him? Even dripping wet, he was sexy. Wait, being wet made him sexier. Now she could make out how the cotton clung to his chest, he was no slacker. But the clothes were a clear indication that he hadn’t been out here to swim. The gold Rolex on his wrist let her know which deck he slept on. Great, she had accidently pushed a rich hottie into the pool.


“Clearly it was,” he glanced towards his friend wearing a murderous glare. He’d never hear the end of it. They had just finished berating him about being a stiff and suggesting he go for a swim. He hadn’t come on this cruise to get a tan or to flaunt around with a bunch of females. It had been a good opportunity to relax. This trip had been planned for months. Akito had purchased the tickets as a graduation celebration. They had gone to college together for the last three years and had become close friends. Originally it had been planned that his girlfriend would accompany him but she had decided to decline at the last minute. His relationship with Kagura was always off and on, nothing serious. Since the trip had already been reserved he had gone alone, needing time alone. He just wasn’t sure if it was the stress of his relationship or the knowledge that his brother was moving to town that had him antsy.


Did he have to sound so angry? It had been an accident, it wasn’t like she’d done it on purpose. If anyone was to blame it was the horny bald asshole that was still staring at her. Why did she feel like drop kicking him instead of apologizing again? Okay, so it was somewhat her fault, “Why don’t I go get you a towel? Be right back.”


Like a towel would help the sopping mess his clothing had become. Instead of arguing he grumbled under his breath and followed her lead. She was heading over to the attendant without thinking. There was no point in a towel as long as he was wearing his clothes. What he needed to do was return to his room and change. His eyes fell on the sway of her hips as she bustled up to the young boy handing out towels. It didn’t take a genius to figure out why the kid hastily shoved two towels into her hands while wearing a blissful smile. Kagura would be considered to be a classic beauty which is what had originally drawn his attention. This girl however was very different. There was nothing exceptional to her features, she was moderately attractive, why had he thought her to be beautiful?


Kagome thanked the attendant before turning to go back. She paused noticing that he was almost to her. Worrying over the accident had allowed her to ignore just how tall he was. He had to be over six feet, towering over her small form. She felt dwarfed as he pulled up and accepted only one of the towels. Eyes so light they could be called amber settled on her face. Not only was he cute but he had bedroom eyes too. A tingling sensation centered in her stomach as she lifted her chin to meet his gaze. “I’m really sorry, but I guess I’ve already said that.”


“You have,” it was her eyes. Meeting that dark gaze carried the impact of being punched in the gut. It was like gazing into the sky moments after the sun had gone down. Sesshoumaru felt strange as he continued to gaze into the darkness. It was no wonder his first impression had been to think her beautiful. The tilt of her mouth only accented the softness of her features.


What a man of many words. Kagome tried to calm the butterflies in her stomach. Unable to hold the gaze any longer she turned to see what her friends were up to. She blushed seeing Yumi giving her a thumbs up, Sango was still giggling and Rin looked concerned. Nice, they probably thought she had pushed him in on purpose. No matter how cute he was, she wouldn’t result to one of Yumi’s tactics. “I would offer to make it up to you but I’m not old enough to buy you a drink.”


“Lunch would suffice,” just as soon as he got into dry clothes. There was no way he’d be able to eat being uncomfortable. He’d been on his way to eat anyways, some company wouldn’t hurt. Company that didn’t need some form of liquor to be sociable. Not to mention he had a feeling the girl would continue to feel guilty unless he allowed her to do something for him. Although, he had been raised properly. “If you wish to make it up to me then accompany me to lunch. Meet me at the main dining area in thirty minutes.”


Was he asking? Kagome was too stunned to move as he swept by without saying another word. It had sounded more like an order than a request. She’d only commented to appease her guilt, she hadn’t thought he’d take her up on the offer to make it up to him. She’d only knocked him in the pool, not injured his person. Her jaw had to be hitting the wooden planks by now. Had she just been told to share lunch with an extremely sexy man? She didn’t fool herself into calling him a guy or boy, that was all man. From the looks she’d put him in the early to mid twenties, no older. His speech and manner pegged him as being raised rich, but brought up with manners. There was a slight commotion as the three she’d left moments ago found their legs. Within a minute of his departure she was surrounded by her friends. Not only were they opening their mouths to speak but she noticed that the couple he’d been sitting with had also leaned forward to get a view of what was going on. Hell, she wasn’t sure what had just happened.


“Spill, what happened? You look like you’ve seen a ghost. Was he rude?” Sango was the first to get her attention. More worried over Kagome’s distress than wanting to know the guy’s name. Most rich people were rude to those not from their neighborhood.


“No, not really. I think he just told me to have lunch with him.” There hadn’t been a question to his voice. He’d been telling her to meet him, naturally assuming she’d do as he said. Wouldn’t she? Of course, he’d brought it up as a way for her to apologize. It was probably just his normal way of speaking, he hadn’t spoken to be rude.


“Then what the hell are you doing standing here?” Yumi asked in a whiny voice. “Figures, I’m all decked out to find a man and you get one by shoving him into the pool. Only you would catch one by making an ass out of yourself. Fine, at least go have lunch with him and tell us the juicy details later. Find out if he has a friend for me, he was very dreamy.”


“I’m not sure if I should go. I came to hang out with you guys, not find a man.” She was a tad curious but it wouldn’t be right to abandon her friends. It would be wrong to go spend time with a complete stranger. Yumi wouldn’t mind because it was something she’d do herself.


“Don’t worry about us. We came to have a good time, plain and simple.” Sango was wishing she wasn’t attached right about now. As much as she loved Miroku there were times when she wondered if she could be happier elsewhere. “You see us almost everyday, a few hours away won’t kill you. Besides, this is a rare opportunity, don’t waste it. If any one of us were in your shoes we’d be going. Go and enjoy yourself, you deserve it.”


“Um Kagome, you aren’t going to wear that are you?” Rin wasn’t so sure about the entire situation. From the looks of the guy he was very rich and elegant. Would their friend feel right being in the man’s atmosphere? Being cute didn’t make him acceptable. Knowing his type she knew that showing up in a bikini would be frowned upon.


“You’re right, I can’t go into the dining hall dressed like this. I’ve got to go change, I’ll see you guys later.” She spun on her heels once more, thankfully no one was behind her this time. Having already lost some time to converse with them she ran to the lower deck. There was no way she was going to show up in a bikini no matter how good it might look on her.


Their room was in the middle of the hall to the right after getting off of the lift. It wasn’t much bigger than a normal hotel room. It held two twin beds, two dressers, a mini-fridge and a personal bathroom. The bedding was done in a peach to match the carpet, it was a feminine bedroom. The only window was a small circular opening that was currently closed. Silence greeted her as she swung the door open, she had to make this fast.


As she closed the door behind her she pondered on what to wear. Knowing this was an elegant cruise liner she had packed several things to wear. Besides her shorts she had packed a sun dress to be on the safe side. It wasn’t elegant or designer but was the best she had. It would have to do or she’d just have to go in shorts. It was rose colored with spaghetti straps and a flowing skirt. To complete the outfit she slipped on another pair of sandals, it was all she had. When packing she hadn’t planned on being asked out to lunch. The last thing to do was to fix her hair. Keeping it up might work, more acceptable. If she let it down it might implicate that she had gone out of her way get his approval. It was just a simple lunch thing, not a date. It was best to make it casual, not personal. The brush was used to get rid of any tangles that might have formed while in the open breeze. The thick mass was piled back into the pony tail, this time she let her bangs fall forward.


She looked okay, she looked young. Did that matter? There was no way else to make herself presentable. If he had a problem with her appearance she’d just leave. It was time to leave if she didn’t want to be late. No one was in the hall as she exited. The lift was still waiting from when she’d left it. Stepping back inside, she began to get nervous. Hojo was the only guy she’d gone out with. This wasn’t a date but she was going to be eating alone with a male. He’d expect conversation, what could she say to him? Would he be interested in anything she had to say? She wasn’t so sure this was a good idea anymore.


The lift stopped and the door opened. This hall was much more crowded. A couple stepped into the lift forcing her to get out. It was easy to find her way to the dining rooms. Which was the main one? Was it the one where she’d eaten dinner last night or the smaller one? She supposed she could ask someone. The double doors leading to both were nearing, a female hostess was standing idly by waiting. As the elderly woman spotted her approaching she was saved as a tall figure turned the corner and came out.


“She’s with me,” Sesshoumaru spoke noticing the girl standing at the entrance. He’d been on his way to see where she was. The thirty minutes were up but now he saw what had delayed her. The dress was ordinary but fit her perfectly. It probably only cost what he made an hour but looked better than anything he’d seen his girlfriend wear. Or was it because of the girl wearing it? He would have sworn she was underage by looking at her face. Right up until his gaze dropped south, there was nothing childish about the soft curves buried beneath the material.


“Of course Sir, have you been shown to your table?” The hostess was all smiles now.


“Yes, thank you.” He held out his arm indicating that she should take it. It wasn’t in his nature to ogle. Growing up he had been surrounded by beautiful women, especially after he had hit puberty but he couldn’t help taking in his company. Were her breasts that perky or was there something helping to support their weight? Kagura had decent breasts but they didn’t call attention like the creamy skin being exposed near the girl’s cleavage.


Kagome accepted the arm being offered with amazement. The hostess had instantly changed her demeanor the second he had spoken. Was he a regular? They strolled by the area where she had eaten the night prior. Her heart dropped as another door was opened in the back of the room and she was entering another section. She had to walk up some steps to reach the dining area. It was much nicer than the other with fewer tables. There was chandeliers hanging from the roof, lighting up the room. She had to look stupid wearing normal clothes compared to him. He had changed into a dark grey suit and had his hair tied back. If she had any doubt to his nature, it was squashed as he pulled the chair out. “Thanks.”


As simple as she was dressed he noticed how their waiter automatically started to take in her appearance. He took his seat and cleared his throat. The idiot had the decency to flush before handing over the leather bound menus. “I’ll require a fresh pot of coffee and whatever the young lady desires.”


“I’ll take water please.” How could he sip something hot in this weather? Kagome took the menu while making her request. The one from last night had been nothing more than paper laminated. She didn’t know what to think as she opened it up to glance inside. The first page alone left her boggled as to what to do. The first three pages alone were of appetizers, who could eat that much? Her stomach dropped to the floor seeing the prices, she’d have to take out a loan just to eat a salad.


“What would you like to start?” He already knew what he wanted but knew absolutely nothing about his guest except that she looked adorable while gnawing her bottom lip. This had to be her first time in the main dining area. The meals were a little pricey but well worth paying for. “If you aren’t sure I’d recommend the Caesar, it’s delicious.”


“Alright, that sounds great.” As long as she didn’t have to scrub the decks to pay for her lunch. How had she managed to wind up having lunch with a stranger? The waiter came back with a steaming pot of coffee and her glass of water. He tried to pour it but was waved aside with a manicured hand. She watched in awe at how quickly the guy reacted and stuttered as he asked if they were ready.


Sesshoumaru waited for the boy to leave before pouring his cup. That idiot probably would have spilt it. The entire time he had kept glancing towards the girl. It felt odd thinking of her as such, perhaps it was time to discover just who it was that had pushed him into the pool. “In the attempt of being polite I think it’s best if introductions are made. Might I ask what name you’d prefer to be addressed by?”


“Kagome,” she thought it best to opt up her given name. Only a moron would give him her family name. Just because he was rich and sophisticated didn’t mean he couldn’t be a serial killer or demented. Her mother hadn’t raised a fool, “what should I call you?”


“Seeing as I’ve already invited you to lunch, I’ll allow you to address me by my given name. It’s Sesshoumaru,” he lifted the cup to his mouth. The liquid was a tad hot but tasted acceptable. He nodded his head indicating the menu, “Do you see anything you’d like to try? If you can’t find something I can ask for the dinner menu.”


This was the lunch menu? She could see plenty that she’d like to try, she wasn’t a picky eater. What would be good but wouldn’t make her look like a pig? How did one pronounce half of this shit? This was way in over her head, she didn’t know what to get. Give her a hamburger and fries, she was a happy camper. “It all sounds good, got any suggestions?”


“A couple, would you like me to order for you? Are you allergic to anything?” he waited for her negative nod before lifting his hand to signal their waiter over. She didn’t speak as he gave the boy specific orders. That done he turned his full attention to her, “what were you doing before having the gall to knock me over?”


“I didn’t meant to, I was leaving. My friends were wanting to hang around but I was thinking about taking a walk. I didn’t see you because I turned to look at this guy,” she hadn’t meant to bump into anyone. It had been shock at someone being so bold that had her clumsy and unaware. It was ironic that she was about to share lunch with him.


“So you knocked me over because you were looking at another man. I’m not sure if I should find that knowledge humorous or disturbing.” Who had caught the girl’s attention? Had she been hoping to spend time with another passenger? There had been plenty of others sprawled about. It would be a shame if that was the case. The way those deep blue eyes flashed in anger made his breath catch, she was one easily riled.


“Neither, I was most certainly not looking at him. I mean I was but I wasn’t, I wasn’t checking him out. Don’t make it sound like that. I turned to look at him because he said something rather crude as he walked by. That was the only reason my attention was diverted. I just happened to turn then run into you, it was accidently. Besides you were still sitting when I stopped walking. How was I to know that the few seconds it’d take me look back and turn around you’d get in the way?” What was so damn funny? Okay, he wasn’t outright laughing or even smiling, it was the way the corner of his mouth was lifting upwards. If that wasn’t fucked up amusement what was it?


He sat the cup down overlooking the getting in the way part of her outburst. Up until the point where Akito had pissed him off by implying that he needed to get laid, he had been sitting on the edge of Maya’s lounge chair. “You say I was sitting, you don’t imply that I merely happened to walk into your path. Tell me Kagome, how would you know that I was seated with my friends up until that point?”


Dammit, why did he have to focus on that? She’d sound like an idiot if she admitted to having noticed how broad his shoulders were. “Because we had just finished a discussion concerning you. Yumi thought your guy friend was hot and there was a debate if you were a male or female since you had your back turned. You are kind of hard to miss.”


“I see, I’m also curious. What was your conclusion?” It would be the first time to be accused of being a female. No one that saw him would assume he was feminine. Hair aside, there was nothing soft about him. Had she assumed him to be another woman? The thought pricked his pride for an unknown reason. What did it matter what she had thought?


“I knew you were a man. I could see your hair but looking at it also drew my attention to your shoulders.” She blushed as he lifted his brow in question. Had she said something wrong? “Well, you were sitting so I couldn’t tell how tall you were. You have wide shoulders that don’t belong on a female. There was also your posture to consider, it wasn’t feminine. Well, it could have been if you were a lesbian.”


He was spared from answering as their salads were delivered. He declined any dressing while she asked for some. To him it killed the taste. Alone again he reached for a fork, “might I ask how old you are? I’d like to assume that you are old enough to be going off with just a bunch of other girls.”


“I’m seventeen,” how old was he? Was he worried about someone questioning his motives. Kagome took a bite of the chicken. It practically melted on her tongue it was so tender. There was really no point in asking him his birth date. After this they wouldn’t see each other again. He was old enough to afford splurging. “This is really good.”


“I’m glad you approve. Is it just you and your friends or is there a boyfriend around that is going to wonder where you went missing to?” Someone like her had to have a boyfriend. Having attended high school himself he knew how things went. Of course his hadn’t been a public school but a privately owned one, it had been co-ed. Never a shortage of the fairer sex, the prettier ones were always sought after. He couldn’t imagine that many having more appeal than Kagome.


“Just me and my friends here. My ex-boyfriend is probably quoting a list naming all the reasons he’s better off without me, just so he can justify the breakup.” It was the type of person Hojo was, he had to have an explanation for everything. There was no way he’d just accept her excuse of not being in love with him. If she wasn’t in love with him then there had to be a reason for it. When it came to the word no, the guy was clueless. He believed as long as he wanted it then she should to and if she didn’t then it was always possible to make her change her mind. “Or he’s forming an essay to explain why we should patch things up.”


“Didn’t take well to the splitting?” It didn’t sit well with him knowing she had just split with someone. He’d be an idiot to harbor the idea that she was untouched. Most girls her age were very experienced these days. “So the cruise is just you females hoping to have a good time. Are you planning to work things out once you return?”


“I’d rather be raped by a rabid monkey. Sorry,” she wanted to kick herself as his eyes widened. It was hard to remember she wasn’t in common company. For some reason she felt relaxed and at ease sitting here with him. Despite his apparent wealth he had yet to look upon her with scorn or judgement. The butterflies were still circling her intestines but that could be ignored as long as she didn’t look directly at his eyes. Just the thought of doing so had them flapping rapidly. “I meant to say, no I’m not interested in continuing the relationship.”


“No need to apologize. As shocked and appalled as I might be at your use of language I prefer that you be yourself in my presence. Pretense is something I deal with daily, open honesty is refreshing. Your crude way of speaking is slightly amusing.” So was the way she was fidgeting with her fork. What was she thinking? No woman he’d ever been acquainted with would have used that phrase. It was a breath of fresh air, different.


By the time the main course arrived Kagome wasn’t sure if she’d be able to eat. At this rate he’d have a funny story to share with his polo buddies. They’d get a real laugh hearing about the foolish scrub he had picked up while on vacation. There was no way she was his type which had her wondering why he had insisted she have lunch with him. She was curious about a few things. Like what the hell was covering her rice? It almost looked like gravy but couldn’t be, it wasn’t dark enough. There was also chunks of vegetables sinking in the mess. The beef was sliced thinly, covered in seasoning. “Did you come aboard with company or alone?”


“Alone,” he was glad Kagura had opted to stay behind now. “I will be honest, I do have a girlfriend. Our relationship is one based on understanding. She was originally the person meant to dine with me but thought it best to remain home. Some nonsense about the open sea would be bad for her skin. She is probably enjoying the theater in my absence.”


A girlfriend. Duh! Of course he’d have one. She was shocked he didn’t have more than one. He was pure eye candy, if he were poor he’d still have his pick of the litter. Unable to hold it off any longer she took a bite of the covered rice. It was unlike anything she’d ever sampled, it was scrumptious. It was no wonder rich people had their fat sucked out with food like this. It was so good she immediately took another bite.


Sesshoumaru watched as she lifted the fork to place it between the glossy petals. Her top lip was smeared from the sauce, damn but it was erotic. The tip of a pink tongue darted out to remove the coating. “You said earlier that you had been leaving to walk. Where were you going?”


“I thought I’d explore the place. It’s my first time on anything this big. I’ve gone out a few times in a puny boat so I was curious.” She didn’t think it possible to see the engine or any of the expensive areas. It was sheer luck that she was able to see inside this dining area. If not for some rude asshole she would have strolled on by without having met him. The thought was disappointing. “Why did you get up anyways?”


“I was hungry,” and pissed off. Most likely because the barb had hit home. His sexual appetite was great but he didn’t believe in spreading it around. While dating Kagura he tried to be monogamous. She had informed him at the beginning that she didn’t mind if he wanted to have a brief fling every now and again. It was something she did often, which he didn’t mind. He wasn’t one to impose his urges onto another. The want had to be mutual or there would be no imbibing. If Kagura wasn’t in the mood then he just went without. “Would you like an escort afterwards?”


“You mean you’ll show me around after lunch?” A walk sounded wonderful. Why would he go through the trouble? “I couldn’t ask you to do that. You’ve already treated me to a delicious lunch. I shouldn’t impose anymore and waste your time.”


“It is my time to waste.” There was nothing else to do. He didn’t want to return to the pool or hit one of the entertainments. There was also the nagging feeling that he wasn’t ready to part from her. By noon tomorrow they will dock and it’d be back to his regular hectic schedule, he wanted to enjoy himself. “Besides there is nothing wasteful about spending time in the company of a charming young lady.”


The blush blazed red at the compliment. Did he talk this way to every chick? Did they get taught at an early age to sweet talk people? It had her wanting to agree to walking the plank for him. It wasn’t just the words but his voice. There was no describing how smooth it sounded, like expensive cream being poured into her soul. The deep baritone was also soft, like a caress. Was it possible to become infatuated with a voice? Her stomach was doing funny things just thinking about it. “So do you have any family?”


“None to speak of.” His sibling was best forgotten. If he never saw the little bastard again it’d be too soon. The day would come when it would happen, he wasn’t looking forward to it. Their father had already passed away, leaving his portion to the unwanted seed. This wasn’t the time to be thinking of his family. “And you?”


Kagome pushed the plate unable to take another bite. Somehow without her noticing he had devoured most of his plate. It took style to eat and not be seen. “My father passed away a few years ago. I still have my mother, we live with Gramps. He’s my grandfather on my father’s side. I also have a younger brother that’s a little brat. There are a few distant relatives that I don’t see often.”


“Are you full?” More than half was still left on her plate. At least she had eaten. It was impossible to enjoy dinner with Kagura on most days. If she wasn’t complaining about the calories she would always find something wrong with the meal. The smile Kagome gave him as she nodded more than made up for his little dip in the pool. “Lets get out of here.”


So far they had strolled around the deck twice, visited the casino, bar, and the engine room. It had been different than what she’d been expecting. The sun was beginning to set, the view was beautiful from their spot on the bow. Kagome barely made out the silhouette of Sango and Rin not far away speaking to a group of males. Or rather they were being pestered. Her company had turned into something unexpected. From likes to dislikes the conversation had been nonstop since stepping out of the restaurant. She leaned against the railing to allow several employees to go by carrying chairs. They had stopped short of the secluded area. “What’s happening there?”


“I believe that is for tonight’s entertainment.” Sesshoumaru placed both hands on the railing, looking out across the dark surface of the ocean. The evening breeze barely stirred, it was going to be a warm night. He had discarded his jacket the first trip around the deck. The first walk had been over before he had realized it. She hadn’t complained as he directed her below deck to take a look around.


“Is that musicians?” Sure enough a woman carrying a violin exited and went to the small stage that had been brought out. A few more joined the woman carrying different types of instruments. Kagome wasn’t sure, she was almost positive one had a flute. The only way she was musically inclined was by listening to the radio. Being able to attempt dancing didn’t make her an expert. They both stopped speaking to watch the group setting up.


“You still haven’t told me your intentions once you graduate.” He tried to overlook the fact that she was still in highschool. He was already twenty-five and working, by all rights she was too young for him.


“I haven’t really thought about it. I’m not sure what I want to do. My family doesn’t have too much money and I’m not smart enough to get a scholarship. If I want to go to college I’ll probably have to take a part-time job to pay for it. I’ll figure it out when I get there,” just as soon as she decided what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. Up until last month her biggest worry had been how to deal with Hojo’s antics. She was curious about what he did for a living but had refrained from asking, she didn’t want to sound like a gold digger. After walking around she discovered that there was actually a floor above deck that contained suites. She had thought that part of the ship was reserved for running the place. Of course, he had told her that was where his room was.


“Don’t like to plan things? I never had that luxury,” his life had been planned out for him from his birth. Even though his father had run off with another woman his mother had made sure that he got what was rightfully his. During the divorce his mother had received half of the company, it had fallen to him on his twenty-first birthday. The other half was still owned by his father’s side, or would that be his brother? Their father had finally passed leaving it to Inuyasha. The boy had yet to take over, leaving it to Mr. Sakamoto to do. Soon enough he knew he’d be forced to deal with his unwanted sibling.


“That’s a shame, let me guess you are supposed to follow in your father’s footsteps. If you’d had a choice what would you have liked to do?” She got comfortable and watched the way his eyes tightened in thought. Already she had come to know that his face didn’t show many emotions, training from the crib no doubt. She couldn’t imagine being told how to live her life.


“I never really thought about it. From an early age my mother told me what she expected of me and from that point it was all I strived for. I had responsibilities so there was no room for indulging.” Sesshoumaru didn’t regret his role in life, he was his mother’s son. There was a soft sigh from the girl. Someone like her could never understand his way of living.


Kagome was sure he’d take offense if she were to call him stupid. Having your life planned out for you had it’s perks obviously. He could afford the best in life and would never know what it is to do without. He was a person who would never know disappointment and want. “I’m sorry, I guess I wasn’t raised that way. The only thing my mother has ever told me was that she wanted me to be happy. I can’t imagine not having a say-so in what I could do with my life. In a way we both have it rough. While I have the option to do anything I want, I just can’t have what I want. You were given a responsibility but lost your freedom. In exchange for that loss you will never know what it is like to do without financially. In the long run you’ll probably have the easier life but I don’t think I’d give up my freedom. There are a lot of things I’d like to have and will probably never get them but I’m okay with that. It just means I’ll cherish what I do have.”


“You don’t think it’s possible for someone in my position to cherish something? Money can’t buy everything,” it hadn’t bought him his father’s love. Once the man had fled with his mistress the first born had become something best forgotten. Many nights he had hated both his parents for bringing him into the world. A marriage of convenience had turned sour once one of them had fallen in love with another. His mother had done the best she could but had never been a loving parent.


“True, I’m glad you realize that. There is hope for you yet.” Kagome smiled seeing him lift an eyebrow at the statement. He wasn’t anything like she’d been expecting. It had been easy to speak to him, so easy time had flown by without her noticing. The musicians began to play as two couples came out decked in their finery. They were shown to a table in the center. The music was light; romantic. It reminded her that some of the people were couples out to spend quality time together. Her heart jerked as an elderly couple came out onto the deck and went straight to an open area.


“How about it?” Sesshoumaru moved away from the railing and extended his hand. Blue eyes widened in confusion at the request. They hadn’t reserved a seat at the tables but nothing was stopping them from enjoying the music. Dancing wasn’t his favorite pastime but he could do it. A small hand was placed in his palm hesitantly. His breath caught at the jolt of awareness rippling through his body. It swirled to center in his gut at the slight touch.


“Alright but don’t bitch when I step on your toes.” Not that she’d do much damage. Kagome reached up to place the other hand on his shoulder. The touch of his hand had the butterflies going haywire. She berated herself for being a ninny, it was just his hand. There was nothing sexual about the touch. Being so close really brought home how much taller he was than her. A hand came to rest on her waist bringing her close. She fell in step as he moved her away from the railing.


He was aware of the difference immediately. The few times Kagura had managed to drag him onto a dance floor he had felt awkward and agitated. Slow dancing with his girlfriend had been a chore, not something he enjoyed. The top of her head stopped below his shoulders, putting her around five-three. They swayed to the melody for several minutes before he grew bolder. If she noticed that he had edged closer she didn’t comment on the lack of personal space.


This had to be a dream, it was too good to be real. Kagome could hear her heart hammering wildly as he got closer. So close, she couldn’t resist the urge to place her forehead on his chest. What she found was solid brick, so hard she was glad she hadn’t thought to head butt him. Being this close the hand resting on her waist moved to find the small of her back. There was no denying that it was close to being held. Here she was dancing with a hot guy as the sun set. The scenery aside, she shut her eyes to simply enjoy how right it felt.


A soft snickering came from the left drawing his attention. He noticed three girls strolling by, seeming very interested in his dancing partner. It had to be the friends. They were going on their own way, Kagome didn’t seem to notice that she was being observed. He was trying to pay attention to anything besides how nice she felt pressed up against him. Her face had turned to rest a cheek along his chest, their clasped hands had been pulled closer. The fresh scent of peaches was drifting towards his nose. The aroma had to be her shampoo.


Too soon for her liking the song ended and he pulled away from her. Was this where they called a halt to her dream? She didn’t want to end it, she wanted it to continue. Not even with Hojo had she felt so secure. Was he going to retire and leave her wondering if she’d ever see him again? “It’s getting kind of late.”


“Indeed, why don’t we find somewhere to relax?” He was loath to let her return to her friends. She had to be getting hungry, if not tired. They had walked a good bit and it was getting late. Keeping a hold on her hand, he pulled her along the deck. Most of the passengers had gone inside for dinner or retire for the evening. The pool had already been closed but he had no intentions of swimming. Minutes later they were back where they had met. Another couple was near the railing talking, he took them to a cluster of lounging chairs. The only other place to go would be his cabin and he didn’t want her to get the wrong idea. The concept of getting intimate wasn’t far from his mind but he didn’t want to spoil things by moving that fast.


She gnawed on her bottom lip as he took a seat, leaning back. He looked more than comfortable on the plush seat. Making sure to keep her skirt from riding up, she took a seat near his thighs. What else was there to talk about? The weather? It was a nice night out but discussing the breeze didn’t feel right.


“Kagome?” He wondered what she was thinking about. She was sitting on the edge, turned to the side. At the sound of her name the angelic face turned towards him. He found himself reaching out to caress the proud chin. It was wrong to feel this content with someone he’d never see again. Just gazing down into the soft features put him at ease. The girl was no one special but that didn’t stop him from leaning forward. How could he resist as his eyes fell on the parted lips that looked to good to be true?


‘Yes,’ she answered in her mind. Sitting so close she had no idea on what to say. As she turned it became apparent just how close he was. The instant he leaned forward her brain went into overload. Was he going to kiss her? His mouth was only an inch away, so close she could feel his breath. There was no stopping the descent, he narrowed the distance in seconds. The initial touch of his mouth was warm and hard. The pressure lasted for several seconds then his tongue was invading. It licked her lower lip before sliding inside sending heat through her veins. The kiss had lasted only a few seconds but felt like eternity until it deepened. Her face was captured in a strong palm urging her closer. Tilting her neck allowed him the angle he sought.


Of all the females he had kissed in his lifetime none had caused an instant arousal. That was the case this time, the second she responded his body sprang to life. He was in charge of it from the start, she didn’t seem to mind. The sensation of her tongue meeting his made the ache grow, centering in his groin. It was sweet, tender, and extremely arousing. It lasted for a minute longer, not long enough. He pulled away needing to calm down and to breath.


Wow, it was the only word to describe it. Kagome reached up to touch her mouth which was still tingling. Her toes were still curling from the kiss. The butterflies had been silenced and a herd of elephants had taken up residence. Not only was her stomach turning but she was aching elsewhere. It was hard to make sense of anything! How had he learned to kiss like that? If she spoke she’d probably sound like an idiot. “Um, do you want to go in yet?”


“No, why don’t we get comfortable? Have you ever just lain back and watched the stars?”



“Wake up Miss, we’ll be docking within the hour.”


The wake up call was unwanted and annoying. Kagome brought a hand up to remove the hair annoying the shit out of her. Where the hell was she? As she sat up the memories came flooding back. It would be hard to forget as she woke up in the same chair she’d fallen asleep in. The only thing different was she was alone. Something heavy was covering her legs, it was his jacket.


After the toe curling kiss she had given in and gotten comfortable. Which meant she had taken the appointed seat between his thighs. He hadn’t complained when she had leaned back to rest her head on his shoulder. Another hour of talking while looking up at the stars had led to more kissing. She couldn’t recall kissing so much before. Hell she didn’t think if she counted all the times her and Hojo had kissed in their years of dating could outdo last night. There had been times when things had gotten heated and she feared that he’d want it to go further. Instead of insisting they get a room he had drawn away and rekindled the conversation.


She must have gotten so tired she had dozed off. The sun was high in the sky and people were starting to move around. The many faces looking at her curiously none of them belonged to him. She looked around, he was nowhere to be seen. Why hadn’t he woken her? Instead he had left after covering her. Grabbing the jacket in her hand she stood up to stretch. Would he just leave without letting her know how to get in touch with him?


All she knew was that he had a room in the upper deck. It would be wrong to just go knocking on doors. The announcement came from the speakers that they’d be docking soon and that all passengers should make sure they have all of their possessions. Swearing she turned to see that the man wasn’t spewing bullshit. In the distance she could make out land, they were almost back. She had no time to worry about where he was. After she got her things together she’d think about it. Maybe there was a chance she’d be able to spot him as they disembarked. Telling herself she’d look for him as they got off, she headed back to their cabin knowing she’d have to answer a few questions before her search began.

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