With Love

Chapter Thirty Eight: Beach Time


“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Kagome adjusted the seat belt as Sango pulled out of the driveway. What were the chances that the two people they really didn’t want to see would be there. Hiei was Yukina’s sibling, so what were the chances that Yukina had invited them as well? They were taking a chance of Hiei at least being there. She really didn’t want to be rude to the small koorime but being around her brother wasn’t on Kagome’s list of things to do this century. How long would he wait before deciding whether or not his own child was special enough to give a second thought?


“Sure it is, trust me.” Botan grinned from her spot in the middle seat next to Mid. The two boys were sitting in the back looking at some kind of collector’s cards after a cartoon. The girl child was putting a tiny bikini on her newest doll. She was rather looking forward to the cook out to be honest. She was ready to unwind. The two in the front seat needed to seriously relax and chill the fuck out. They were worrying themselves over nothing. “I say FUCK EM! Who cares even if they are? It’s a beautiful day outside and we are going to get a tan aren’t we Middie.”


“Yep, yep, Bobo. Can I get a tans too? I got my suit on. You going to take me in the water? Momma says she doesn’t want to mess up her hair.” Mid smiled up at her Aunt with a grin she knew would get her what she wanted. Aunt Sango was more hard to get stuff from but Bobo was just like them. The blue haired woman would buy them whatever they wanted and play with them. They also didn’t have to call her Auntie either, she wanted to be called by her name. When she was learning to talk it’d been hard for her to say it all so she called her Bobo instead.


“Yes Ma’am, I’m going to take you swimming and we are going to build us a big sand castle. One big enough for your dolly to live in.” Botan laughed when Youko muttered something about tearing it down. “Don’t worry if they knock it down we’ll just bury them in the sand. Then let some really fat man sit over them with a chair.” That got a grunt from the rear seat and let them know not to mess with the sand castle. Both boys knew that she would do exactly what she threatened. “If we can’t find a fat guy then we’ll sit over their heads. We should tell them that your Mom cooked beans last night for dinner too.”


“I didn’t eat those, I fed them to the kitty, she liked em.” Midoriko clapped her hand over her mouth as her Mom turned to look at her. “Oops, I mean they were really good.” Oh, she was in trouble when she got home. She’d have to hide behind Bobo later or she’d get into big trouble. Not her fault she didn’t like them nasty beans. Nothing that tasted so nasty could be good for her.


Sango laughed as Kagome did her best to scold the little girl with just a look. It was hard to find it serious when Botan was back there sticking her tongue out in rebellion. Their friend was half to blame for the wild ideas that somehow found their ways into the childrens’ heads. Botan was probably right though, what did it matter if the guys ended up being there? The kids wanted to go because all of Yukina’s children would be there. The oldest was in class with them and they wanted to play at the beach. It was a chance to get out and relax from work. Their chef was keeping an eye out on things for a few hours while her and Yukina were out. If Kurama was there then she’d deal with it. She doubted he’d be rude to them or her with everyone there. If he got rude then she’d let Youko eat him with his newest plant.


“We’ll discuss that little admission when we get home.” Kagome turned back around to look at the highway. They were headed to the cookout whether she wanted to go or not. Yusuke would be there, that was a plus. She smiled thinking of that. The toushin was one of the ones helping to set up the grill before the rest got there. Yukina had taken supplies from the diner for it. Steaks, hamburgers, sausages, hotdogs, potato salad, and some deserts. As long as they didn’t ask the toushin to cook. Most likely Yukina would be doing all the grilling.


“Yeah, right after you clean up the mess that poor thing has made. Got to feel for the little kitten after eating your food. Damn thing is going to have the shits if it ate your beans.” Sango changed lanes ignoring the hand that slapped her in the arm. She’d promised the boys that she’d take them swimming before they left. There was no way around it, she’d be getting wet. She wondered if Touya would be there? Yukina said she’d invited him but wasn’t sure if he’d show up. They’d gone on a regular date already and he was just as she remembered. He’d been polite and considerate the entire evening. Hadn’t even made a move after he’d brought her home. In a way she was disappointed but relieved. She didn’t know if she could get involved with anyone right now. But part of her wanted to be desired by someone.


“Grossness, that’s disgusting.” Botan wrinkled her nose at the thought. “So you wearing the bikini I bought you?” She directed the question towards the miko. The hag had on a white t-shirt so she couldn’t tell what was on under there. After accepting the invitation two days ago she’d bought them all new suits including the boys. She could see the straps to Sango’s red suit but the white couldn’t be seen underneath that damn shirt. “You better have it on. I swear if you have on that old ragged one piece I’m going to strip you down and you can eat in the buff. I don’t care if you get sand in your cracks either.”


“I have it on, so don’t blow a gasket.” She felt like an idiot wearing it but she’d put it on. Just because she had it on underneath didn’t mean the shorts and top were coming off. She did have one mark on her that refused to go away. A blasted scar given to her by her own child. A burn had seared her on the side one night while she slept. Midoriko had only been a little over a year and had been ill. Trying to comfort her baby she’d picked her up and rocked her to sleep in the rocking chair. She’d woken up feeling extreme heat against her bare flesh. A tiny hand had fallen while dreaming, her child’s power had come to surface. Right through the sheer nightgown and into her skin.


“Ah, looks like most everyone is here. Look, Yusuke’s truck is here along with Yukina’s van.” Sango pointed at several other vehicles. “Oh my, a mustang boys. Who wants to hot wire that baby and take it for a spin? Or maybe Mr. Naraku will let you drive it. Bobo can ask him really nicely for you.” They’d see how confident how Botan was about attending knowing that the man was there also. It was unexpected but no real shocker. He’d been sitting with them at the bar, so he was a friend of theirs.


“Eat me,” Botan snarled seeing the car sitting next to his brother’s truck. She didn’t care if he was here. The only way it would effect her day was if he allowed her to drown him, then it’d make her even more happy. The boys were already unbuckling their belts, ready to go play. The side door slid open thanks to Kagome and she crawled out to stretch. “Hmmm, damn it’s a nice day. Let the boys help you carry the chairs down I wanna go check the surf real quick. Come on Mid, me, you and Dolly will go check things out.”


“Okay,” She took the hand being extended. It meant she’d be getting out of helping with the carrying. Her floppy shoes clapped as they made their way over the sand and towards a large hill. The sound of water reached them along with laughter. She’d never been to the big water before. Could she swim in all that? Her eyes widened seeing the waves crashing in. “Can we swim in that?”


“We sure can, want to go see how cold it is?” Botan smiled down at the little one holding onto her hands in a death grip. She looked to the left hearing her name being called. Yukina was waving to her from two wooden tables that had been shoved together. Throwing her hand in the air she returned the greeting letting the smaller woman know she’d seen her. She glanced over to see the group of males standing around. All four of them were here, talking like old times. Some other people she didn’t know were seated around the table. The long raven hair was turned away from her. “Let’s go take off our clothes so we don’t get them wet. Your mom and the others will be with us in a bit.”


“Okay,” Mid nodded in agreement. The more she thought about it she really wanted to play in the water. Then she could pick on Youko because she’d been the first one in. They were walking towards a lot of people. A scarey feeling made her stomach feel icky as she spotted the mean man that had come by the house that day. He was standing next to Mr. Yusuke though. Did that mean he wasn’t a bad man anymore? Her friend was sitting at the table in a pretty pink bathing suit. She released Bobo’s hand and went on over. “Kameko, that’s pretty. Wanna go in the big water with us? Bobo is going to take me.” She went over to the tall smiling man. A man with long dark hair moved aside so she could reach the girl’s daddy. “Mr. Yusuke can she go in the water with us? I promise we’ll behave. Bobo is going to take me to swim.”


Botan pulled her top off while Mid worked her charm so the other girl could join them. She smiled at Kameko knowingly and pulled her shorts off. The black string bikini was revealed and Kameko was already taking off her shoes. Yusuke looked up for her reassurance that she was agreeable to it. She nodded and walked over to Kagome’s little girl. Mid was thanking Yusuke for allowing the other girl to play. “Let’s get you ready to go in.” She ignored that she was squatting right next to her most hated foe. The sight of tanned shapely legs filled her view but she managed to pull the sun dress off and then the flip flops. They were placed on top of her own clothing for the time being. “Race ya.”


Both girls took off towards the water, leaving the woman behind. Yusuke grinned as Botan stood putting her right beside his tense brother. “Bobo huh? Is it because she couldn’t pronounce your name or were you nicknamed after a killer clown? Probably the latter, I’ve seen you when you’re pissed.” He laughed when she scowled at him. He wasn’t sure what was funnier; the nickname or the way his brother had reacted to Yukina calling out to her. He had told Naraku that they weren’t going to show, knowing his brother wouldn’t have come. That was probably the only reason Kurama and Hiei hadn’t put up much of a fuss. Not like they could leave now. Shizuru and Yukina were setting up the grill. If either man left then a female would be extremely pissed about the early departure.


“Hmph, not like I was angry with you.” No, she’d been wanting to murder his older sibling. “Besides not like I brought a bat along. Though I’m sure that knife Yukina is wielding would work just as well.” She could practically feel the heat coming from the older man. “Well as stimulating as this conversation is I’m sorry to say that I find the atmosphere in this certain spot kind of foul. Plus, the girls are waiting on me to go in.” She smirked hearing the chuckle, coming from Hiei of all people. “You should really be careful Yusuke. Recent studies have shown that Bastardizing is contagious. Hate for you to turn into an asshole.”


“Right, thanks for the warning.” Yusuke didn’t want to laugh at his friends’ expenses but the girl had some guts. All three men glowered at her retreating back. Well Kurama and Hiei were glaring daggers into her back, his brother’s eyes were further south. He was lucky they were still talking to him so he wasn’t about to scorn their company. He had to convince them he’d just found out about the kids himself. That the girls had wanted to be the ones to tell them so he’d kept quiet. They hadn’t been happy but had accepted it. Hiei still didn’t look happy but that might have to do with Kagome. No one had brought up his forming relationship with the woman yet. Even if they did it was none of their business. Hiei had ended things with the girl years ago and she was single. Hiei had let her go, his loss. The man should be more worried about getting to know his kid. “She’s adorable isn’t she.”


“Heh, that’s not what I’d call her.” Naraku scoffed at the very idea of that one being adorable. Annoying, mouthy but incredibly sexy. Her ass filled out that bikini nicely, showing off the curves. She’d matured greatly, growing into an astonishing woman. Who had she married? The husband wasn’t in town with her, he’d checked into it. It’d been a spur of the moment curiosity that had him checking it out. He was lucky Kagura hadn’t caught him calling around or he’d have to listen to her constantly hounding him. As the weeks went by his wife got bitchier. She didn’t want to stop drinking or smoking her and the doctor was advising it. A glass of wine was alright every so often, not a pint of vodka with your evening meal.


“I was referring to the little girl, not Botan. Stop thinking with your dick man. We all know you’d climb into her panties if she didn’t want to skin you alive.” Yusuke snapped at him in annoyance. He was trying to get Hiei to think about the child, not how the woman filled out the skimpy bikini. Figures his brother wouldn’t notice how adorable Midoriko was when there were a pair of firm tits near. Whether or not he was dating Kagome, that was Hiei’s child, not his. He hoped the man would get off his ass and do something about her before the little girl grew up resenting her own father.


Hiei turned to watch the girl run into the water without fear. She was holding hands with Yusuke’s girl. The two seemed close already, which confirmed that Yusuke had been spending some time with the miko. His eyes remained on the child as she proceeded until she was waist deep into the water. Botan had already caught up with them. He wasn’t really worried about them drowning but something kept him watching. Was that really his child out there? She was different from the child that had confronted them in the yard that evening.


“Excuse me guys,” Yusuke saw Kagome coming over the hill trying to handle the cooler in one hand and chairs in the other. A beach bag was in the crook of her elbow. Sango was just as much in the same predicament. Youko was carrying what appeared to be a net and ball. Shippou had two small chairs in his grip. They’d need help with that cooler. It’d also give him a few minutes to make sure Kagome was comfortable being here with Hiei present. He wasn’t sure how she’d want to act in front of her ex. Whether or not she’d keep it friendly or continue their relationship in public.


Kagome let the cooler fall as he approached. “We’re saved,” her arm was already killing her. What kind of crap had Sango stashed in the damn cooler? They couldn’t eat lead. She caught the brown eyes and smiled in return. At least one of them were considerate enough to come help them with the load. Just for that none of them were touching the cold drinks supposedly stashed inside. But she was willing to bet a few of the cans were laced with metal with how heavy it was. Her best friend could be very spiteful when she was upset. If she looked she could find a can with the fox’s name on it. ‘Just ignore the tiny little hole on the side Kurama.’ The toushin bent over to relieve them of the heavy burden. “What?! No kiss? And here I came because I thought you might want to see me.”


The cooler was forgotten for now. He’d be more than happy to give her one if she didn’t care who saw. Obviously she didn’t because she stepped towards him. Yusuke cupped the back of her neck bringing her against him. He captured her mouth without fail. Her lips parted easily under the pressure. He’d been hoping for a simple peck what he got was a demanding tongue probing for a response from him. The woman beside them was forgotten along with whomever else might be watching. Arms went around his waist followed by the chair hitting the side of his leg. The pain didn’t register as he plundered the moist cavern.


Sango whistled and took the chairs she had. It became a more tolerable burden without the cooler. Her two kids were giggling at the kissing pair. “Okay you two, no need to gawk.” She was sure it was a show for them with how the two were acting. Her and Kagome had always tried to keep any public displays to a minimum for a reason. The kids didn’t care for them dating, her sons would flip if they saw her smooching with a male that way. It was apparent Kagome enjoyed the way Yusuke kissed. As long as he treated the miko good then she was all for the relationship. Midoriko seemed to like the man as well, which was rare. Even Youko hadn’t suggested that they set him on fire. Now the two watching were another story.


Yukina waved her over along with the two boys. “Hey guys, I see you brought something for us to play later.” They both grinned at her and set the net and ball on the table. That could keep the guys busy while she cooked. Kuzuma was already bugging her about when she’d start grilling. Shizuru was still wrapping up the potatoes in foil for those that wanted a baked one to go with their steaks. The chicken she’d brought along would take the longest to get done. With all these people here eating they’d need a wide variety of food to consume. “Think I can play with you later?”


“You can’t play like that.” Youko pointed to her rounding stomach. The woman had a baby inside her. “You might get hit in the belly.” he’d seen a movie where a woman got hit where the baby was and it had died. He hadn’t known the woman or baby but it had been sad. “You can keep score for us if you want.” He smiled trying not to make her sad about not being able to play.


“Oh okay, I guess I can do that but only if you promise to win for me. I’ll cheer for your team, how does that sound?” Yukina ruffled his hair and turned to her husband. “Want to set that up? No matter how long you sit there it’s not going to make me start any sooner. Get up and help Youko put up the net and stop sulking.” She gave him a quick kiss on the forehead. “Get Kurama to help you, he’s not doing anything.”


“Come on boys, before she gets moody.” Kuzuma stood up and mentioned for both boys to come with him. They looked towards Sango first for approval. She nodded for them to go with him. He didn’t feel like putting up a stupid net. The kids probably wouldn’t even play once the adults gathered. He slapped the fox on the arm as he walked by, “Come on Kurama you heard her. Help us get this damn net up before she threatens to burn my dinner.”


Kurama stiffened at the suggestion. He turned to the two boys walking towards him. The taller one was holding onto the net itself and the smaller had the poles and stakes. They couldn’t be serious. He didn’t know how to act around them. Did they want him around them? He couldn’t imagine what they thought of him. Youko had already made his feelings clear but the other was just looking at him apprehensively. Somehow his instincts told him it was Youko not Shippou that he had to worry about. That one appeared wiser beyond his years. “Very well,” he could handle putting the damn thing up. Not like he had to talk to them. Not like he was against it but he just didn’t know what to say. He was still coming to accept that he had children. Children that he didn’t know.


He was glad when Kuwabara took the net and handed him an end. Shippou came to stand next to him with one of the poles in his hand. They found a good spot to set it up. It was a good distance away from the tables and even. It was hard to stand next to the boy, the little fox was watching him intently. He tried to smile as the pole was handed to him. “Thanks,” Kuwabara was already swearing trying to get the strings in the tiny holes. Kurama adjusted his pole to make sure it’d be even. He glanced up feeling eyes on him. Youko was standing next to the other man but shooting daggers at him. Such animosity burned into his skin, his own son didn’t like him.


“He don’t like you, he told me so.” Shippou saw the man looking at his brother. He didn’t look mad about the way Youko was looking at him mean but like he didn’t understand why. Was this man really their daddy? Mommy said that he was and that they could see him if they wanted but did the man want to see them? “He says you don’t like us either.”


“Is that so? Did your mother tell you that?” Kurama turned to the child in question. Had Sango been telling them all these years that he hadn’t wanted them or hadn’t cared? He hadn’t an opportunity to form an opinion where they were concern. She’d taken that option from him when she’d left carrying them without informing him. If he’d known he wouldn’t have let her leave. He hadn’t wanted to let her go anyways, he would have accepted the children. He would have come to love them as he had once felt towards their mother. Those feelings would have eventually died as they already had with due time but he would have wanted his sons. He may not love their mother but he knew that if given the choice he’d want to know them.


“Nope, she didn’t have to. Youko knows these things because he’s really smart.” Shippou handed him the sharp plastic and shrugged. “Mommy says you care you are just busy. Youko says that means that you don’t want to see us and she is just being nice. He also said that she went the one day we got puppies to tell you that we wanted to see you and came back sad cause you were bad. He says we got the puppies only because you didn’t like us and she was trying to cheer us up. It’s okay if you don’t like me cause I really like my puppy. Momma lets him sleep with me.”


“I see,” He fisted the stake as the words sank in. Did they come to the conclusion on their own? He turned around to look back at the woman conversing with Yukina and Shizuru. He’d yet to inform his girlfriend that he had children. He wasn’t sure how she’d take it. Hell he still wasn’t sure that it was all happening. Did they want to know him? Shippou might be easier to get close to but the other he’d have a problem with. How would Sango react if he told her that was what he wanted? Perhaps it was time they sat down and talked about how to proceed with things.


Hiei saw the serious look cross the fox’s face and scoffed. Naraku excused himself suddenly and started going towards the water. He drew his attention away from the couple still holding onto each other. Perhaps he should go into the water as well. He slipped off his shoes and followed the taller man. While Naraku was heading towards the woman his goal was the child trying to learn to swim. Botan had Kameko floating on her back while his daughter clapped in merriment. He wasn’t sure how Kagome would feel about him approaching the girl but he wasn’t going to stop. Unlike Kurama’s son he didn’t think the girl was capable of striking out in anger without someone there to urge her on.


Naraku wanted to see how the woman would react to being alone with him in an environment where she couldn’t try to do him physical harm. The scathing look she was sending his way made him almost turn around. She didn’t scare him in the least, he found her anger amusing. Had his betrayal left that much of an impact that she was still bitter after all these years? How deep had her feelings ran during that time? He might not have any control over the past but he’d be damned if he was scared of her. Let her get pissy about things. “Kameko, I thought you were going to let me teach you how to swim.”


Botan wondered if the girls would be mentally scarred if they watched her drown the man. He was only coming over here to annoy the fuck out of her. The girls had been having fun without him being here. It might come off rude if she told him to go away. Hiei was joining them also. Now this might cause a scene, Kagome might flip when she saw this. The small man was going right for their daughter with an intense look. What was he going to do? “I’m teaching her to float.”


“Maybe we should show her how it’s done. I noticed that she’s tensing up and that’s why she’s sinking.” Naraku could point out that it might be hard to relax with Yukina’s flock only a few feet away thrashing around like wild animals. “What do you say? Let’s show her how to, you take her spot and I’ll take yours.” Both girls looked at the woman eagerly. “See, they want you to show them how to do it. Best way to teach, by example. Come here.”


“Heh, fine but only because the girls want to see how it’s done.” Botan clenched her fists at the man’s audacity. If he dunked her or tried anything she’d drown him regardless. Then she’d just explain that sometimes it was okay to kill the male species. The blood was pounding in her ears as the two hands went flat on her back. It was hard not to tense up as well as one stayed on her back, the other near her knees. She closed her eyes so she wouldn’t have to look up at his face while floating there. The fingers twitched against her skin as he tried to explain what was happening.


“See how she’s breathing evenly and she looks like she’s almost sleeping? You’ll need to relax and not panic. When you panic your muscles tense and you’re going to sink.” Naraku frowned seeing that she was breathing evenly even though he was very close. The soft skin played along his finger tips as she floated on the surface. She had her eyes closed but that meant he could ogle without getting his ass kicked. The round globes were pushed up now, the tops hanging out of the cloth. She still had some nice tits on her, put Kagura’s to shame. His niece nodded and came closer to the floating woman. “See how it’s done?” Before he could get an answer a palm cracked against his cheek.


Botan felt herself sinking into the water as she righted herself. That pervert, she’d kick his ass. He thought he was cute releasing her only to lightly touch her ass. Her palm stung but seeing the red imprint on his cheek made it worth the throbbing. She should have known better than to get near him, the slut. Both girls were staring wide-eyed and even Hiei looked confused at the outburst of anger. “You pervert, touch me again and I’ll break that hand off.”


“Excuse me, I didn’t touch you.” He squinted as she placed her hands on her hips and had the nerve to look outraged. If he’d taken the liberty to grab her ass he could understand. Was she that demented that she felt the need to hit him for no reason? If he’d groped her it wouldn’t have stopped at slight touch. She wouldn’t be slapping him for it but begging him to continue. “Sorry to squash whatever fantasy you might have been having but I have no desire to get in a quick feel. Despite what you think not every man wants you. Well, not unless there was some money involved then you might be worth the time.”


“Um, sorry Bobo, it was me.” Kameko blushed and looked down at the water. She hadn’t meant to touch the woman there. Was she going to be in trouble too? “I wanted to see how you were doing it. I moved my hand back when I felt where it was. Really sorry.”


“No, it’s okay. No need to apologize hun. Why don’t you go ahead and practice, I’m going to see about getting a
tan. Your uncle will gladly help you now. Hiei, do you mind working with Mid?” Botan saw him nod and turned towards the beach. Only a few people had turned at that slap. Damn, she felt like a complete moron now. She’d felt something brush across her ass and had assumed that he was making a play for it. A lawn chair was already out and she plopped down on it. Without looking at anyone she got comfortable. She had to be blushing redder than Sango’s bikini. The cold feeling wouldn’t leave her chest despite the scorching rays beating down on her flesh. She wasn’t worth his time unless there was money involved. Would that be the only reason someone would want her? For money? Perhaps he did have a point. After all, she couldn’t seem to be able to get a man. He’d taken her virginity for money, she’d been the one foolish enough to believe someone older would want to be with someone like her. Then after that she’d ended right back with Koenma. Funny how she hadn’t even been able to hold onto someone as boring as that. Then the few lovers she’d had on the side, she had paid for them. They’d been her age but hadn’t really been anything to them. Just quick flings to help forget about her lonely marriage. Her lack of a love life. While Kagome and Sango had been dating to find a new love she hadn’t been able to, she’d been stuck in the past no matter what face she’d worn. Those men had been with her because she’d paid the way. The only reason Koenma wanted her back was because of what she had now. He didn’t want her for herself, he wanted what was in her estate.


Now she’d made an ass out of herself by slapping Naraku. What must the kids think of her? That she was some deranged woman that got upset over an accidental touch. At contact she’d assumed it was him doing the touching. Was it because she had been expecting it from him or was it what she’d wanted to happen? What did it matter, it hadn’t been him touching her. He hadn’t really wanted her all those years ago, he wouldn’t want her now. He’d touched her before because he had his pride and then there was the money. True he’d lost more in the end but he was a man and men didn’t like to lose to another. Her virginity and heart had been forsaken for the price of his pride. When it came to the opposite sex, they came with a price tag. What would she have to pay to be happy?


Hiei watched the concentration cross the child’s face as his hands kept her floating on top of the water. There was no tension and she’d come right to him once Botan had asked him to help out. He’d been worried she’d be afraid to approach him. There was no fear on her scent or the smiling face as he released her. A splash behind them indicated that Yusuke’s little one had sunk again. Pride filled him as his own continued to stay afloat without assistance.


Kagome watched as her daughter floated on the water without any cares. Kameko was going for it again saying she could do it too. Naraku was giving her a few pointers. As long as Hiei didn’t suddenly decide to hold her daughter’s head under the water then she wouldn’t interfere. She wouldn’t go over there because it might make him feel like she didn’t trust him around their child. She’d give him the chance, if he didn’t fuck up then she saw no reason to keep him away. Arms came around her and lips kissed the shell of her ear.


“They’ll be fine,” Yusuke nuzzled her neck. It would do Hiei good to be around his daughter. Actually being around her would make the knowledge that he had a child more real. Once the two spent time together then they’d be a lot better off. Even if he stayed with Kagome he had no intention of trying to be a replacement father. He knew how he’d feel if another man tried to take his place in Kameko’s affections. He wouldn’t do that to anyone, much less his best friend. “Wanna see about getting a game going? The boys look bored.”


“Sure,” Kagome agreed seeing that the rest of the group was here. She tried not to pay attention to the others that had joined them. She still despised the wind demon with a passion but Kuwabara still considered Touya and Chuu a friend so tolerated the other’s presence. Then there was another male she didn’t know. He had long blue hair and rather cute but kind of little. The cocky smile said he thought he looked better than he actually did. Another sullen male was standing next to Kuwabara. Who was he? Whomever he was he was sending quick glances towards her friend lounging in the chair.


Yusuke whistled getting the attention he wanted. “Get up here so we can play. Don’t wuss out on me either.” They should do males against females but the number was uneven. Shippou got up and ran towards him with a huge smile. “Um, you might have to sit this one out man. Some of these guys can get really competitive. I’d hate for your mother to kill someone if you were accidently hit with the ball.” Right after he beat their ass. But a few of these males didn’t know how to take care around small ones. “But you know what, you and Youko can keep score for us. Between you and me I suck at math.”


“Alright, means I get to pick one team.” Naraku snatched the ball from his brother. He’d play but he’d make sure it was fun. “You can pick your own team. The loser team has to do the cleaning and packing up when we are done. As soon as everyone gets lined up. And you can’t pick all the chicks either, I got to have ass to look at too.” He knew exactly who he’d pick first. A few others came up to get in on the game. From what he could see it’d be him, Yusuke, Kagome, Kaname, Kurama, Shizuru, Shishi, Chuu, Touya, Hiei, Kuwabara and Jin. His target had yet to get out of her chair along with Sango who was still sitting at the table talking to Yukina. “I go first, Botan get up here and play with me.”


“In your dreams, I’m not getting anywhere near your balls. Been there, done that, would rather drink detergent than do it again.” And toss herself off of a very high building to save herself the agonizing pain that came with it. Besides she was having more fun up here sulking. She was almost as bad as Sango keeping to herself and not socializing. She tensed hearing his grunt of disapproval. Amethyst eyes snapped open feeling him approaching. “Fine but if I have to play then Sango has to play also. If I have to get near you sweaty males then she does too.”


“Alright,” Yusuke saw Sango turn around and glare at them. She didn’t want to play but would if he had a say so in it. He knew his brother wouldn’t pick Kagome so he thought he might as well make sure their friend joined in. “You heard her Sango, you’re on my team. Get your ass off the damn bench and get over here. I don’t feel like cleaning up.” This would be fun, if only to watch his brother work on getting his ass beat by Botan. The man had to be insane to pick her for his team. Shippou and Youko were urging their mother to join in on the game. He felt better when she finally nodded and took off her t-shirt to reveal a red bikini top. The flip flops were taken off as well, “That’s my girl, move it.”


‘Figures,’ Naraku narrowed his eyes that his brother would pick Sango over Shizuru. It was a given that he’d let his brother have his girlfriend on his team, so that left them with either Shizuru or Sango for the remaining females to chose from. Shizuru was nice but he knew she wasn’t that athletic. Sango was the better for winning. “Wanna join me up here Shizuru? Can’t let him get all the good looking ones.” That earned him a glare from the one standing next to him already.


“Hn, yeah yeah, get up here Babe.” Yusuke smiled at the miko. She was just as good as the other two chicks, so far he had better players than his brother. The rest were guys and pretty much even when it came to helping win if you didn’t count Chuu. The man was drunk already and it was just a little after noon. That would be a total waste of ass space but what the hell. He’d be good for a laugh if anything.


“My turn, why don’t you join us Kurama. Sure your woman wants you on her side.” Naraku smirked as the fox sighed in relief. Maybe he should have let the fox get stuck on Yusuke’s team so he’d have to deal with Sango. He chuckled as the redhead came to stand next to his woman. At least the fox was good at the game.


Yusuke nodded at the pick and looked at who was left. Without a doubt he’d want Hiei on his team. “I’ll take Hiei next. Can’t stick him on the losing team.” The fire apparition joined them but went to stand next to Sango instead of near Kagome. He just knew he was going to get stuck with Chuu.


“I’ll take Touya,” Naraku picked the ice apparition next. He was one of the better choices left. Although the man had been looking at Sango the entire time. He could ogle her from across the net for all Naraku cared. Yusuke already had the best player on his team, he needed leverage of some sort. “Your turn brother.”


“What the hell, wanna come on up here Jin? Just no blowing the fucking ball into the parking lot. Them kids won’t be too happy if we lose it.” Yusuke saw Sango tense at his choice but she didn’t say anything or go sit back down on the bench. What the fuck did she have to worry about? If the man started anything he was sure that scary kid of hers would deal with the man. He’d already heard enough horror stories from Kagome to give him nightmares.


“Are you any good Kaname?” Naraku saw the dark head nod in confirmation. “Guess we’ll see then. Can’t be any worse than Chuu or Kuwabara. I’d pick Shishi but he’s too busy gawking at my brother’s girlfriend’s tits than to realize we are about to play a game.” That got the blue haired man to glare at him. He’d only met Kaname on two other occasions but the man worked with Kuwabara. The man couldn’t be any worse than Kuwabara and Chuu looked ready to keel over.


“Get your ass over here Shishi but stop staring at my girl. Don’t want her kicking your face in, I might actually need you alive to win the game.” Yusuke laughed at the idea, it had merit. Kagome just shrugged and turned to say something to Sango. He wasn’t worried about the man. If he got out of hand then either Kagome or Mid would deal with it. The little girl was already looking at Shishi with a mean expression. He should tell his brother to watch what he said around the three. They didn’t pout like most kids, they found ways to make the adults cry.


“I get Kuwabara and guess that leaves you with Chuu.” Naraku chose his last team member and gave his brother a knowing look. They’d see who won this game. “Alright boys get ready to watch me win. Don’t worry I’ll go easy on your mom.” One smiled and the other scowled at him, scary little brats. He chuckled as his team got into their spots. He noticed that Botan went up front with Shizuru, away from him. He hoped she knew how to spike because he doubted Shiz would even hit the ball. “Any time you are ready bro.”


“Yeah yeah, hold your horses.” Yusuke waited until everyone was ready. “Fifteen points for the match, first team to take two matches wins the game. Got that Youko? As soon as our team scores our fifteen it’s the end of the match. Might as well go head and put a big O under their name.” The little boy nodded vigorously but was taking his time spelling out the names. Kagome was to his left and Sango was in front of him trying to edge away from the wind demon that had decided to stand next to her. Didn’t the man realize that the miko was shooting daggers in his back already? Better not let his woman serve or Jin might end up in a coma.


Kagome noticed that two of Yukina’s kids had sat down next to theirs. The two girls were giggling to each other and the boys were concentrating as their jobs as score keepers and refs. The other two of Yukina’s was up there bugging her about the food. It was already on the grill but would take some time to get done. She heard the whack as Yusuke served the ball, it soared over the net. The one Naraku called Kaname easily returned it towards them. Sango was on it next sending it back over towards Shizuru. The woman actually hit it but it went sideways again. It was slapped by Kurama before it could go out of bounds then Kaname spiked it over the net. It slammed into the ground before they could react. “Wow, he’s good.”


“And he’s cute,” Botan sent the cute man a smile. He looked pretty damn good without a shirt on too. He was only about two inches taller than herself but she could deal with that. Maybe coming hadn’t been such a bad idea after all. The smile was returned showing even white teeth, it made him appear younger. She knew who she was sitting by during dinner. The ball was tossed behind her and towards Naraku, it was their turn to serve. She gave a quick glance at the man before looking forward. The whack of the ball echoed a second before she gasped in pain. Her hand flew to her abused ass cheek, “you asshole. Watch your fucking aim.”


“Sorry, I was aiming for your head, my mistake.” Naraku caught the ball Kurama tossed back to him. The next serve went over to the other team. Jin nailed it, this time it went for Botan. She managed to get it back over but it bounced back thanks to Chuu’s head being in the way. It slapped him in the forehead and came back over the net. Everyone was so shocked by the impact his team didn’t go for the ball. “Nice return you big lush.”


“I’m the man.” he grabbed the hot sheila standing next to him. “Um, you smell awfully nice. What’s the chances of us getting together after this? I gots me a pint we can share.” He felt an awful belch coming on. Where the hell was he and where had this one come from? “Crippy crappers it sure is bright out here.”


“Ewww, get off.” Kagome shoved him away. The fucker stank of alcohol and it didn’t help when he released a loud belch in her direction. “Oh, I’m going to be sick. Trade places with me.” She grabbed the pretty blue haired dude putting him between them. It meant she’d be near Hiei but better than putting up with that thing. “Don’t let him near me please.” Better not let Mid near him or the poor drunk would go up like a match.


Jin went up to serve next moving him away from her. Sango relaxed as the man moved away. It gave her a few minutes of reprieve. She wasn’t blind, she could see the knowing looks he was sending her way. She didn’t want to know what was going on in that foul mind of his. The ball went over the net towards the girls again. Botan went for it and missed, it tumbled to the side. It looked like they would make an easy score but Kaname slid next to her legs to pop it back into the air, with that Kurama got a good hit in. It was enough to get it back over, to her. She jumped up and spiked it as soon as it cleared. It popped back and almost hit the fox in the face. Kuwabara went for it but missed, score for their team.


“Whatcha doing down there?” Botan eyed the man laying near her legs. The deep blue eyes were slowly traveling up the length of her legs. He was taking his time about it to. Naraku snapped behind him for the man to get back up as Jin went to serve again. She leaned over and offered a hand, “That’s not how I usually get admired but then again I don’t mind it when a cute guy falls all over himself for me. Though I’m shocked it only took a smile to get you on your back.”


Kaname got up wiping off his hands. The girl was openly flirting with him. Was she serious or just trying to annoy someone? He hadn’t missed the comments she’d made about Naraku. He’d thought the man was married but he was willing to bet this one had been one of the man’s flings. So what was wrong with her that Naraku would choose to stay with that uptight bitch of a wife instead of this beautiful girl? Perhaps nothing, Naraku didn’t appear to be that bright to him. “If you want me on my back you’ll have to try harder hun. No need for me to get down there if you aren’t going to join me. And I got the feeling it’ll take more than a smile to get you there.”


“You got that right but I just might be willing to let you try.” She almost laughed as her friends stared at her wide eyed. What the hell, she was single. Not like she wanted to spend the rest of her life alone. Besides it’d been awhile since she’d had any. Batteries could only go so far. He was friends with Kuwabara so he couldn’t be all that bad. She wasn’t looking to get remarried or for something serious. Just someone to enjoy some free time with, nothing wrong with that.


“Hn, in the hopes of getting back to the game, it just takes a piece of cheap jewelry and dinner to get her there. Just make sure you lock up your ride after you pull out. Or she’ll turn into a very expensive fuck.” Naraku grinned as silence filled the air. The ball landed with a hard thud near Sango’s feet. He shrugged as many of them turned to look at him. “Our serve.”


Kagome was shocked that Botan didn’t attack him. Instead the girl just shrugged the comment aside. That had been downright cold and rude. That bastard really needed a foot in the ass. How could him and Yusuke be related? She’d have to apologize to him later for the death of his sibling. That had been completely uncalled for. She wouldn’t let it go, “Before we continue, she might not worry about it because we all know that you’d have to pay a chick to sleep with your five minute ass. Yeah yeah, we know it’s big but that don’t mean shit if the damn thing won’t stay hard. But do me a little favor and watch your mouth. If my child repeats what you just said then you’ll find that burial costs make a really big dent in your wallet as well.”


“Now Kagome, you know I didn’t tell you that he lasted only five minutes.” Botan was glad her friend would stick up for her. The comment had stung so much she hadn’t wanted to show him how much by replying. The look on his face was priceless now. He didn’t look happy that someone was commenting on his rude behavior. If he wanted war, she’d give it to him. Why the fuck even bother asking her to play if all he was going to do was attack her verbally? “It was only three.”


“What does that mean Mommy? What lasted for three minutes?” Shippou cocked his head to the side. He knew not to say that other word. He’d accidently said it once and gotten a spanking for it. He’d heard it on a movie and called his brother it. Were they calling people bad names? If so he didn’t like that tall man because he said it about Bobo. She was his nicest aunt, he wasn’t allowed to talk bad about her. “Is he talking bad about Bobo?”


“Nothing dear, they are playing around, it’s nothing serious. How’s that score looking?” Sango glared at the man, standing with his arms crossed. Her youngest called back the score loud enough for all to hear. She had to agree with Kagome, the man needed to watch his mouth. Botan and Kaname had been flirting softly but Naraku had been inconsiderate enough to speak loudly. “And you, open your mouth again and I’ll be cramming my fist in it. There are children present.”


Kagome was glad when the game got back on track. No one else spoke as the ball was tossed back and forth over the net. She even managed to spike one by Touya. That might be because he was watching Sango. She wasn’t the only one that noticed that Jin kept taking a spot right next to the other woman. Not like he had to worry about that ever happening. She glowed as she trotted back after scoring. It was Yusuke’s turn to serve again, the ball was flying. Kuwabara’s fist hit the ball so hard it echoed around them. Her heart stilled seeing it coming right for her face. White filled her vision, she flinched knowing she couldn’t stop it. She felt the breeze as it was knocked to the side and away from her face.


“Watch what you are doing fool.” Hiei snapped as the ball bounced out of bounds. The blue eyes turned to him in confusion. What the fuck did the man think he was hitting? He turned from the miko to see Kuwabara’s cheeks flush red. “You are supposed to try and score not break her face.” If Kuwabara had succeeded his sister would be a widow. The girl child was looking with wide eyes as Kagome thanked him. Did she really think he would have just stood there and let her get hit in the face? “Hn, don’t mention it.”


Botan smiled when it was their turn to serve, she was up finally. She palmed the ball as Naraku laughed at something Shizuru said. Stupid little fucker, she’d show him. He was totally ignoring her now. Now that he’d done made her sound like a whore. She closed her fist as she struck the ball. With a clear crack it slammed into the back of the raven head. It didn’t knock him unconscious like she hoped but he stumbled forward from the blow. “Whoops, sorry about that. Not that good at this whole serving thing. Maybe if your head wasn’t so big, duck for me okay.”


“Sure,” Naraku moved aside. If she hit him again she’d be eating dirt. He turned back around only after she served the damn thing perfectly over the net. The ball was tossed back and forth a couple times before it came to him. He smiled as he managed to catch it in time and had it going in Sango’s direction. There was no way for her to miss it. Her palm touched it as a wall of flesh collided with her from the side. The point was earned as she ended up with a wind demon almost on top of her. “We’re playing volleyball Jin, not football. I don’t think you needed to tackle her, she is on your team.”


“My bad, I was going for the ball.” He grinned as the female struggled beneath him. That had a mighty nice feel to it. She’d filled out in the last few years. No wonder Touya was suddenly all gaga over her. Especially if she was into giving it up. “Don’t go getting all upset, nothing I’ve never felt before.” That earned him a quick shove. Fine, he’d get on up.


“Jerk!” Sango felt tainted as the hand ran along her waist as he pulled himself off and stood. He’d done that on purpose. Going for the ball indeed. Sorry bastard hadn’t changed at all. How could Touya still hang out with the creep? Now she had sand in her bikini top. Nothing felt worse than grit on the tits. Kagome came over to make sure she was okay. Naraku was back and wasn’t waiting for them either. She ignored the game as she dusted herself off. Her entire side was covered in the crap. Sweating and landing in sand wasn’t a good idea.


“Here let me help.” Kagome got the back part as Sango brushed it off of her shorts. It was all over her stomach and her sides. Hands went to work helping to remove most of the gritty sand. Kagome didn’t think about it as her friend went to work removing it from her chest. “Oh, you got some under your top as well. Hold it open on the bottom and I’ll try to get what I can without you flashing everyone.” With a nod Sango pulled the material from her breasts and fingertips went underneath the globes at first. Best to make sure no grit was there or she’d have a really bad rash.


Kurama took his eyes off the two boys sitting on the side lines. They had looked upset seeing the wind demon tackle their mother. She wasn’t hurt but Youko had his fists clenched in anger. Obvious who that one got his temper from. At least they were no longer looking at him that way. Shippou had even smiled at him a few times. The only time Youko had looked happy was when she had almost hit him with the ball on accident. He shrugged and waited for the ball to be served. His eyes went to the two women conversing. Pain twisted in his gut seeing the miko’s hand disappear under the red top. Heat flooded his groin watching as the fingers moved, outlining the swell of breast. Pain made him wince, the ball found his forehead out of nowhere.


“What the fuck man?” Yusuke called out as the fox collapsed onto the sand. What was his problem? He should have seen that one coming, not stand there like an idiot. He took a few steps forward and turned to ask Hiei what was the man’s problem. The fire apparition wasn’t looking at their fallen friend. “Holy shit, now that’s hot.” His groin tightened seeing Kagome with her hand up Sango’s top. “Damn, I knew you two were close but I had no idea.”


“You pervert! I’m just helping her get the sand off of her so she doesn’t become irritated.” Kagome snapped at him in irritation. Just like a man, well all of them were perverts. Even Kuwabara was staring at them. Not like they could see anything, just the thought that a female was touching another. Not like her and Sango were getting off on it. She snatched her hand away so Sango could right the top. “Can we get back to the game please.”


“Yeah, sorry about that.” Sango wiped her hands on her shorts. She’d hit the outside shower and rinse herself off before sitting down to eat. She could feel the sand in her bottoms also but wouldn’t go that far out here. She didn’t need Yusuke to accidently hit the fox again because the toushin was getting excited over Kagome. Her luck Kurama would say she was trying to get him injured on purpose. Her ire didn’t decrease because Jin was right next to her again. If he came to close she didn’t care if this was supposed to be a happy day, she was going to see how he liked a mouthful of sand. The image of slamming his face into the sand made her smile.


“You okay?” Shizuru ran a hand over his cheek. “That looked like it hurt.” The ball had hit more between his eyes than his hair line. She wasn’t shocked that he’d been staring at the other female. Even her brother had stopped to gawk. The only male that hadn’t seen it at first had been Yusuke because he was behind them. She’d been worried if he hadn’t ogled it. Their relationship was what it was. Even she tended to spend time with others on occasion. If he did get interested in someone it would be for nothing more than a quick fling. He wasn’t the type of man to be completely faithful and she had come to accept that.


“I’m fine, eyes are just stinging a little.” Kurama rubbed the bridge of his nose. Not only that he was trying to concentrate on not getting erect. He didn’t fucking need this on top of everything else. He was just coming to accept that he had kids. Contemplating getting to know them. He didn’t need the added burden of still lusting after their mother on top of everything. Not when it was a desire he’d never indulge in. There was too much between them to ever consider heading down that road again. Plus, he didn’t want to be with her. She would take nothing less than that. “Lets get back to the game.”


Next Chapter: A dinner invite and Botan goes shopping. Please read and review...