Tease Me, Taste Me, Take Me

Disclaimer: I, unfortunately don't own Inuyasha, that right belongs to Rumiko Takahashi. I do, however own the writing and if any of you try to steal it, I will find you! Okay...? Okay! Oh yeah, I also don't own Madonna's song Pretender.


Definition(s);
1. Kun: A word often used by girls to call their male counterparts of the same level or grade/addressing a male friend
2. Ne: Yes
3. Ano: Excuse Me
4. Oi: Hey
5. Chan: This is used in a variety of instances. This word is used by girls who are close to each other. This word could also be used when you are fond of somebody or something (like the way Jakotsu calls Inuyasha Inu-chan)


Author's Note: Sorry for the late update, but I actually have reasons this time, not that I didn't have reasons last time - Ahem.

Anyway Reason number 1. Is because my laptop crashed, erasing the first half of chapter 5 and I cried because I was half way done and I could have posted the chapter quicker, but whatever, now my lap top is working on and off right now so I have to be home to actually type to this story, instead of doing it elsewhere, like, let's say, work?

Reason number 2. Is because I got sick with a terrible fever and sore throat and I was out of it, and my head hurt whenever I would type, which would be almost every time I was online.

Reason number 3. Is because my mother's birthday was Monday and we had a huge birthday party for her, and there were a lot of guests here and to be a good hostess, I had to be polite and not sneak off to my room where I could type, although I did it a few times anyway (and got caught each and every single time)

and Reason number 4. Is because of the guests that were here on Monday, some stayed over because they're family from Puerto Rico, some of which slept in my room, which irked me to no end, so I basically got kicked out of my room, my lap top didn't want to work and now I'm sleeping in the basement with no air conditioner. Oh The Horror!

and Reason Number 5. Is because my beta went on vacation, which I totally believe she deserves because she works so hard all the time... I never knew being a beta could be so hard...

Anyway I'm sure some of you don't care and want to read chapter five, so I'll move on to the reviews, I want to thank;

Ebony; Thanks for your support, as you can see, I'm still writing ::grins::

SiN; the bold lettering is useful, at least in my point of view, it's easier and makes important things stand out more

Hello Betty; No, the he in which Kagome is referring to is not Inuyasha and the mate in which Inuyasha killed is not Kagome. I am sorry for the confusion, but it's all right, I can understand it. Hopefully some of you questions will be answered in this chapter

Kireichan; Actually you'll find out what's going on with Shippou/Rin in this chapter and as for Inuyasha/Kagome... well to be perfectly honest, they'll get to know each other a little better, more perspective. And as for your writing, you shouldn't say that because we all have out own different styles of writing, ne?

Suketchi; Thank-you, your review warmed my heart

Tammi; No, really, it's you who I should thank. You make me see and put things into perspective, it's good to know that I have a great friend like you, although at times you remind me of a mother hen protecting it's chicks. But, honestly, I'd say almost every chapter I write is dedicated to you because you do help me, a lot more than you think, so thanks for being a great friend and lovely beta

fallenangel7583; Hopefully in the next chapter or so you'll find out who broke Kagome's heart and Inuyasha will unknowingly get to know her a little better. As for Inuyasha being in high school and being in love... well I can't really give anything away, let's just say that him being in love with his mate is crucial to the plot and you'll learn more about his dead lover in this chapter... well, kind of. As for the flamers, I don't even care anymore, it's not even worth it, although since I am sick, I am drinking hot chocolate with marshmellows ::mmmmm:: lol

Jebus,

Myztik Shadows; Well yeah it did get kind of kinky, but I edited it, so there will be a little bit of action between Inuyasha/Kagome, but I think I focus more on Sango/Miroku in this chapter, just to have they're characters shape up a bit, there will also be more new characters introduced in this chapter and I'm proud to say that Sesshoumaru is in this chapter. As for Rin/Shippou, what Shippou sees will shock the hell out of him, but I think it proves that he should expect the unexpected. Thanks, I love reading your reviews and I hope you like this chapter

ChibisamuraiX; Well I'm still sick, but I guess I'd call it a blessing in disguise, and yes Sesshoumaru is in this chapter, so I hope you like it

sesshy_lover; Wow, you can be scary at times, but I think I'd prefer tomatoes thrown at me instead of dog crap and whatnot, lol. Have fun with the special doctors

Jennifer; I do hope this chapter answers some of your questions

kiiru; I'd have to say no comment for the whole Rin/Shippou thing, because maybe she does like him, but she says nothing, ne? Anyway, Inuyasha couldn't have killed Kikyou because she's alive and she was one of his one night stands, I mean, this is Inuyasha we're talking about and well his mate is not Kikyou, she was... someone else

Bibsta; Exactly, Shippou and Hiten do make a really good couple if you'd actually stop and think about it, as for the whole pool thing, well you'll just have to keep on reading

HieisprettyLady1; Thanks, it's nice to know that I have faithful readers

sutekii,

Gyousei; Thanks!

KuroK; Well it'll probably be soon when you find out who Inuyasha was with and killed, but I think this chapter helps give some insight as to what happened in his past and thanks! I still feel sick, but hey look how quick this chapter came out

BK;

TricksterGoddess; Work does suck, but hey I'm getting paid, so I guess that's a plus... and as for the whole Hiten/Souten/Shippou thing, well there's more to it and this chapter brings out more of Hiten and Shippou's character, along with Rin and Sesshoumaru... but Souten is completely different, I mean she's not that naive. Wait, did I just give something away?

Anon; Sorry I don't mean to. Honest!

Anon; You have every right to share your opinion but why are you wasting your time? If you don't like high school fics then skip over them, I have plenty of reviewers who are fans of this sort of fic. That's why I write a brief summary for those who would and would not like to read it. Perhaps if you could read there wouldn't be an issue. I don't appreciate you calling my work shit. Obviously you're too stupid to take the time to read it. Was your high school life that pathetic that you would automatically call everything shit that has to do with high school? Do us all a favor and get over it! You said you left FF.net, well do me a favor and go back, since you're too stupid and immature, if you don't like reading about high school fics, then go somewhere else. WE DON'T NEED YOU! No... I DON'T NEED YOU!

jem; Thanks!

Shizuka Kaze; The person Kagome keeps calling him will be appearing soon and as for Rin dragging Shippou off to this unknown place, well let's just say that you'll find out in this chapter. Sorry, but you're wrong, Inuyasha is not thinking of Kikyou. His mate was... someone else...

DaddysLittleGirl; Actually you're right, where Rin's taking Shippou is going to be rather surprising if I do say so myself. Teeheehee

CHIBIchibi; Thanks! Your review was rather vulgar, but it's nice to know you care about my fic enough to stand up for it

mel,

Shyneamor,

Anonymous; Actually this story keeps popping to the top off AFF because I am editing it, not because I am attempting to get more reviews. If you don't know what I'm doing, why don't you keep your big, fat mouth shut and not talk about something you think you know about, okay? Good...

Inu Babe; Again, Shippou being gay is crucial to the plot, as for Kikyou being brought back, well she was never really gone to begin with

MinuetLove; Thanks!

orbed_maiden; Thanks

Dreamscapes; Thank-you so much for your encouraging advice, it really meant a lot to me

mysterious1; Thanks a whole bunch sweetie, for both encouraging me to write and also for telling off Anon(s), but I don't think the Anon(s) who wrote the review are the same people you're cursing at because Anon is just put there when a person does not leave their name for a review. I suppose Anon is short for Anonymous... anyway I hope you like this chapter.

Sailor Tee; Thanks! I try...

Kari,

and Isis.

Please note; Jakotsu and Bankotsu are not related. Okay? Okay...

Anyway onto chapter 5, the lord knows how long I've kept you waiting.

Chapter 5: The Stripper

He walked with his head lowered, deciding it must have been one of those weird spring nights when the darker part of town looked ghostly, half-lit up buildings rising up out of the mists like skeletons. Between his long day at work and his college classes, he was exhausted. His silver bangs brushed against his high cheek bones as his red mouth lowered into a frown. His brow creased as his frown instantly turned into a cool smile.

And here I am going to my second job... He thought, long black lashes swept downwards against his pale cheeks. He glanced up, only to reveal strange, alluring, cold golden orbs. His eyes caught the sign Ashita Avenue.

I'm close he thought to himself, his lips, once again tightening into a heavy frown as his brow creased even further.

How I loathe my job, but I... I want to do this. This is the only way I can feel freedom, freedom from father, freedom from school work, and freedom from my life, my obligations. This is the only way, the only thing that allows me to be... me. Yet I'm disgusted with what I have to do to get it and at the same time I'm rewarded with pleasure. Pleasure I want and don't want at times. How can that be? ... Almost as if I have two different hearts... and yet I'm told I have nothing, just an empty black hole, only when I'm around her do I allow myself to be me.

His frigid gold eyes softened considerably, turning into a solid liquid honey color as he thought about his first and only lover.

Rin he thought, the corners of his mouth quirking into a small, wistful smile, before completely vanishing.

Ah my dear sweet Rin... my little spitfire he thought, his mouth almost curling into another smile. He looked up again, and was surprised to see he had reached his destination.

The word Babylon was plastered to the building.

Sesshoumaru smirked to himself thinking - the building looks halfway respectable in the daylight, but at night, the bright neon lights attract the trash like a moth to a flame.

His eyes absentmindedly looked at the sign, before unknowingly falling to the building and he couldn't help feeling disgusted, although he schooled his expression keeping it in a mask of indifference.

Sesshoumaru Takahashi, Tokyo's number one bachelor, or rather number two, - nobody beats father - working at a strip club to work off his debts and to help out... others. What would father say if he knew about this? Sesshoumaru thought, inwardly wincing.

He brushed his thoughts to the back of his mind knowing that he had to concentrate on his job because he had to work hard for his tips, tips that were already spent.

His long, pale fingers tightened on the doorknob of the club's entrance, his expression giving nothing away. He briefly glanced at Suikotsu, the bouncer, standing a few feet away from him and leaning against the brick wall of the club's building.

He looks so calm and collected, leaning carelessly against the building and smoking Sesshoumaru thought, his eyes falling to the lit cigarette in Suikotsu's right hand.

As he was about to bring the cigarette to his mouth once more, he paused, his eyes meeting Sesshoumaru's. Sesshoumaru shuddered. There was always something about Suikotsu's endless bottomless black orbs that made him feel dirty, and ashamed or maybe it was because of the way Suikotsu would stare at him in pity and sympathy.

His eyes hardened like stone.

I don't need anyone's pity Sesshoumaru thought, his mouth twisting into a sneer.

Sesshoumaru turned away.

He knew the meaning behind Suikotsu's stare.

Why?

I do this because I want to, I have to... I have no choice in the matter anymore Sesshoumaru's eyes told Suikotsu as he turned to look at him once more.

Suikotsu made a pained face, turning away from him and brought the cigarette to his mouth, inhaling deeply. He closed his dark orbs, letting the smoke seep into his lungs before breathing it out. He looked at Sesshoumaru, his mouth quirking into a wry smile of irony.

I understand...

And oddly enough, Sesshoumaru believed him, because it was true, because Suikotsu was just like him.

Sesshoumaru gave a brief nod, before opening the door of the club and walking inside. He was quickly enveloped in darkness, nothing but darkness. His golden orbs were quite accustomed to the darkness so he walked up a flight of stairs and quickly found his path. The bright light escaping his boss' office created an illuminated path that Sesshoumaru easily followed. He opened the door and winced momentarily as he felt the light pour over him, hitting him directly in the eyes, and making him momentarily blind. When he could see once more, he inwardly grimaced at the sight that met him.

His boss, Bankotsu sat in an Italian leather seat with his lover Jakotsu draped over his desk. He glanced at the position they were in, the clothes they wore or rather - didn't wear. Jakotsu, a young boy - or rather an adult, in Bankotsu's eyes - was the ripe age of nineteen. His baggy light blue button down shirt was open, half of it falling down his left shoulder. His collar bone and shoulder were exposed, with wisps of his reddish-black hair rubbing against his tanned cheek and against his shoulder. Of course, Sesshoumaru expected no less seeing as how Jakotsu's face was tilted to the side.

No doubt fooling around with Bankotsu Sesshoumaru thought with pursed lips.

Bankotsu, on the other hand, was leaning back in his leather seat, dark blue eyes smoldered over with lust as his eyes held - what Sesshoumaru thought were - Jakotsu's. They never strayed from Jakotsu's own and Sesshoumaru suspected that Bankotsu didn't know he was standing in the doorway of his office. Bankotsu too, wore a button down shirt, except the color was a dark indigo color. His shirt too, was open, or rather torn open Sesshoumaru noted as he saw a few of the shirt's buttons missing. Deep, long red welts and marks were carved all over Bankotsu's chest making Sesshoumaru inwardly wince again.

He likes to receive pain...

Sesshoumaru let that thought roll around in his mind.

If only I knew, I could have helped him with his little problem.

His thoughts were seized when his mind was flooded with images of just how many wounds Jakotsu had inflicted that he could not see. Disgust washed over him as shivers quaked up and down his spine.

Masochist Sesshoumaru thought with a smirk as his eyes moved away from the bloody gashes on Bankotsu's chest only to fall on Jakotsu's smaller frame.

Jakotsu.

His eyes hardened at the name.

Jakotsu, you will never touch my brother again. Ever! He thought, stiffening before clearing his throat rather loudly to gain both of their attention. As he expected, both of their heads swiveled to see who interrupted them; Bankotsu's dark blue eyes flashing angrily and Jakotsu's lighter ones looking slightly disappointed and strangely enough... relieved?

As Jakotsu's light blue eyes landed on Sesshoumaru they glazed over, lighting up before quickly deflating into sadness.

Why can't you be Inuyasha? Jakotsu thought, pouting prettily.

He looks so damn feminine that it's no wonder he fooled Inuyasha, then again that other one was pretty crazy too. Sesshoumaru thought, his demon snarling viciously, trying to reach the surface. He quickly pushed it back as he quirked a brow at Jakotsu, making him fidget under his intense gaze. A slight red blush pivoted against his cheeks and Jakotsu looked away, unable to handle Sesshoumaru's piercing gaze.

Sesshoumaru smirked.

Good...

"Sesshoumaru, you're here early, in fact you're a whole day early" Bankotsu remarked, motioning for him to take a seat near his desk.

"There was a..." Sesshoumaru paused, looking for the right words, as he walked to Bankotsu's desk slowly, almost cautiously.

"... Change of plans" Sesshoumaru finished off, regarding his boss with a cool expression. Sesshoumaru's eyes once again sought out to look for Jakotsu's blue eyes, before they found and held them. His eyes hardened, never straying from Jakotsu's until Bankotsu gave a harsh bark of laughter.

Sesshoumaru's gold orbs met Bankotsu's possessive cobalt orbs.

"Relax Sesshoumaru, Jakotsu doesn't bite..." Bankotsu said in a low husky drawl, ocean colored eyes twinkling.

"... Much..." He added in an after thought, his dark blue eyes seeking Jakotsu's lighter ones.

Sesshoumaru visibly shuddered, but kept his expression neutral.

"So it seems" Sesshoumaru said, and Jakotsu knew the other meaning behind his words.

He inwardly cringed.

"So Sesshoumaru... how is my little Inu-chan doing?" Jakotsu asked, light blue eyes dancing as he positioned himself on the desk where he could see both Sesshoumaru and Bankotsu.

Before Sesshoumaru could reply, Bankotsu growled warningly.

"Watch it Jakotsu," he murmured softly, and although he had spoken softly, his words held a razor, sharp threat to them.

Jakotsu rolled his eyes dramatically, giving no heed to Bankotsu's warning.

"How I've missed my poor little Inuyasha, but nobody can compare to you... lover, not even Inu---"

Jakotsu was cut off by Sesshoumaru's hard voice.

"Stop!" He growled, gold eyes flashing crimson.

"Mmmm... how's your beast Sesshoumaru. I hope you're keeping it under control, especially because I've heard your lover is a child, although..." he paused, looking upwards as he tapped his index finger on his chin thoughtfully before looking back at Sesshoumaru, his blue eyes flashing with cruel intent.

"...I never pinned you as a child molester" Jakotsu taunted mockingly, completely changing the subject and throwing Sesshoumaru into a state of confusion.

A slightly cool smile flitted across his face when he saw the confusion flash in Sesshoumaru's gold orbs, before they hardened into anger.

Before Sesshoumaru could utter a protest, Jakotsu continued on, "Besides why should I stop? I've missed Inuyasha and you've kept me from seeing him long enough. Unless this has to do with---"

"Shut up!" Bankotsu whispered menacingly.

How dare he? Bankotsu thought, gritting his teeth. How dare he take my words lightly? How dare he dismiss me! How dare he dismiss my warning and all because of that dirty half-breed!

Bankotsu's fists slowly shook and he clenched them shut, suppressed rage building up inside of him as Jakotsu's head whipped around to look at him in a mixture of shock and disbelief.

"Wha-what?" He croaked.

"I said Shut up! Are you deaf? Get out!" Bankotsu roared, grabbing Jakotsu roughly by the upper arm with a callous disregard as to how he gave a cry of agony.

Unsympathetic to his yelp of pain, Bankotsu shoved Jakotsu away from his desk. Jakotsu's stumbled away from the desk, giving small little yelps every time Bankotsu pushed him. His slender brows furrowed and out of anger, he lunged at Sesshoumaru. Taken by surprise Sesshoumaru didn't have enough time to protect his face before the crazed boy struck. He felt the sting of his nails as he got one good swipe at his cheek.

In a flurry of movement, Bankotsu grabbed a hold of him, trying to calm and soothe him as he hauled him away from Sesshoumaru, but Jakotsu would have none of it. Jakotsu wiggled and thrashed around in his arms consumed by panic, anger, and lust.

"I know you like it rough lover, but do you want it this rough and in front of an audience?" Jakotsu hissed.

A slight flush worked its way to Bankotsu's cheeks.

"Shut the hell up!" Bankotsu said, tightening his grip on Jakotsu.

Jakotsu looked up only to be met with a thunderous expression. Normally this would have stopped him, but not today. Today he was angry. Angry and hurt.

Bankotsu let him go for a split second and shoved Jakotsu roughly, a particular vicious shove that sent him crashing into the door frame; his shoulder hitting it with a dull thump. Jakotsu gave a loud scream, full of rage and frustration, before slumping to the floor in an unceremonious heap. His shoulders shook with defeat and a sob broke from his throat.

"I hate you!" He hissed with boiling bitterness.

Bankotsu's heart beat painfully within his chest, but he didn't let his guard down, he couldn't.

"I love you too" he said, making his voice as light and teasing as it could be.

And then, Jakotsu looked up at him, hurt reflecting in the sky-blue eyes as he asked the one question that made Bankotsu's heart stop.

"Why are you so sensitive when it comes to Inuyasha's old lover?" Jakotsu asked, his light blue eyes mesmerizing Bankotsu's darker ones.

"Get out" he hissed again, closing his dark blue eyes and pointed to the cold, dark hallway.

"So that's it?" Jakotsu said softly.

"That's your only way of escape? Kicking me out? Why do you always do this when it comes to Inuyasha's old lover? I don't understand..." Jakotsu trailed off, biting his bottom lip.

Bankotsu angrily punched the door frame and felt the wood crack underneath his knuckles.

"Don't you get it? Don't you understand?" He hissed, venom lacing his tone. "I don't want you to understand! You're just my casual fuck!"

"Wh-what?" Jakotsu said, his voice cracking.

"Do I need to repeat myself? Just do us all a favor and get out!" Bankotsu hissed and Jakotsu suddenly realized that Sesshoumaru was still in the room.

His light blue eyes moved away from Bankotsu's darker ones to look at Sesshoumaru in the chair, who hadn't moved an inch since the argument had started. His eyes moved away from Sesshoumaru's head, to look back at Bankotsu. He pushed himself off of the floor, and tossed his head back defiantly.

"No!" He hissed, blue eyes flashing wildly as they met the dark, angry ones.

Anger seeped into Bankotsu's veins and before he could control his actions, he raised his hand and slapped Jakotsu. Bankotsu's powerful slap knocked Jakotsu's head back and sideways making him lose all of his willpower. He flinched, hurt, his light blue eyes misting over.

Fight him back! He thought with clenched teeth.

He turned back to look at Bankotsu, his light blue eyes catching Bankotsu's azure orbs. Disbelief began to form in the blue depths as his small hand reached out to touch his cheek.

"You hit me!" He uttered softly.

He winced as his fingers lightly grazed the cheek Bankotsu had recently slapped. Bankotsu's mouth opened and closed, trying to form a coherent sentence.

"Jakotsu..." He started out tentatively, his hand reaching out to comfort him. Jakotsu jerked away from him violently.

"Bastard!" He hissed, his mind finally registering what Bankotsu had done.

"I hate you! I hate you! I hate you!" He screamed, dodging Bankotsu's hands.

"Jakotsu..." Bankotsu whispered softly.

"NO! Don't touch me!" Jakotsu said, tears beginning to slide down his cheeks.

Bankotsu took a step back, as Jakotsu's words finally reached his ears and slammed into his gut; all the air left his lungs.

"Just go" he croaked out softly.

"Fine!" Jakotsu said, and turned to leave.

He paused, his fingers holding onto the wooden door frame, before tightening.

"Sesshoumaru...?" He called out softly, as if afraid.

Sesshoumaru's eyebrows rose in surprise, but he said nothing, in which Jakotsu took as a sign to speak.

"Inu-chan really did love her, you know? And... an-and she really lo-loved him too" Jakotsu said softly, his voice wavering.

Sesshoumaru shook his head, his first movement since the argument had begun.

"No, Inuyasha misread the affections she had for him. She didn't love him, she cared for him and he loved her because he considered her as a motherly figure" Sesshoumaru answered, his tone matching Jakotsu's.

"He told me he wanted to ma-marry and mate with her though" Jakotsu whispered, forcing the words out of his mouth.

Sesshoumaru's mouth lifted in dark irony.

"Inuyasha cannot know love... because he's never felt it" Sesshoumaru answered and Jakotsu felt the world crash down upon him like a ton of bricks.

"Oh..." he uttered softly.

"... I see... goodbye then Sesshoumaru, tell Inu-chan I miss him" Jakotsu dared, as he turned his head to look at Sesshoumaru, hoping and praying Sesshoumaru would at least grant him this one wish. He ignored Bankotsu's shell-shocked face, but he did see the betrayal and hurt that reflected in the blue depths. Breathlessly, he waited in anticipation for Sesshoumaru's answer, who by the way, was dragging the moment longer than necessary for the sheer torture of it.

"... I will" he finally answered and Jakotsu gave a mental sigh of relief before finally letting his hand slip from the door frame and he stepped out of the office, only to have it slammed shut behind him.

Jakotsu leaned against the door, his chest heaving with anger and pain, choked sobs working through his throat.

I'm such a fool, I thought... I thought... I could actually love someone this time without getting hurt. I guess I was wrong... as usual. I can't ever do anything right, but I won't make that mistake again Jakotsu thought, pushing away from the door. He started to descend down the stairs, giving one last look at Bankotsu's door, with a look of longing.

His light blue eyes hardened, knowing he had to concentrate on his job.

After all, it was all he had left.

Meanwhile, back in Bankotsu's office, for the first time in his life since Sesshoumaru had known Jakotsu, he felt pity for him. His gold eyes narrowed.

It's wrong to fault someone if they don't know anything at all Sesshoumaru thought, watching Bankotsu sigh and rub the bridge of his nose with his fingers as he sat back into his leather seat.

He looked back up into Sesshoumaru's eyes and for some strange reason, Sesshoumaru felt the need to defend Jakotsu.

"He's right, you know" he uttered softly, making Bankotsu arch a brow. "You're too sensitive when it comes to K- I mean her, it's natural that he would be suspicious, you didn't need to slap him."

"Is that so?" Bankotsu asked in a menacing tone, not giving Sesshoumaru the chance to speak.

"Maybe I wouldn't be so sensitive if I knew the real truth about Inuyasha's old lover. Tell me Sesshoumaru, how do you think your brother would feel if he knew the real truth about her? Do you think he'd forgive you? Hmmm? Do you think he'd appreciate knowing you manipulated him into thinking he killed his lover when it was actually you who got rid of her? Besides, the last time I checked, you weren't Inuyasha's favorite person, in fact he loathes you! He hates you! Why can't you get that through your thick skull?"

Bankotsu laughed bitterly, blue eyes hardening and Sesshoumaru felt a chill go up his spine.

It's no wonder they call him an ice prince. He looks like one, his blue eyes could shatter glass Sesshoumaru thought.

"Oh right, your pride won't let you believe it" Bankotsu said, gaining Sesshoumaru's attention as his blue eyes challenged Sesshoumaru's gold ones.

Sesshoumaru stood up, quickly losing control, as did Bankotsu.

He hated when he was looked down upon.

"Me? I got rid of her? Need I remind you that you were also part of this? That you helped me in getting rid of her?" Sesshoumaru said, his voice clipped. "And you shouldn't worry about Inuyasha. He's my responsibility..."

Sesshoumaru flashed Bankotsu a bitter smile which startled him.

"After all, I'm the person who put him in the position he's in now, ne?"

Bankotsu laughed, and something about his laughter affected Sesshoumaru.

"Not just you Sesshoumaru. You and I... we-we're one in the same. Two peas in a pod, because I helped you, I helped you get rid of her, but not for you or for Inuyasha's well being. I did it because I wanted Jakotsu, I did it for my own selfish needs and if I could go back in time I would---"

"What would you do? What could you do? She was sick" Sesshoumaru said, cutting Bankotsu off.

Bankotsu sighed and his shoulders slumped forward in defeat.

"You're right" he whispered, his whisper almost inaudible. "But it hurts, you know? It hurts to know that Jakotsu still loves that foul half-breed brother of yours."

Sesshoumaru sighed and closed his eyes, taking a seat the same time Bankotsu did.

"Just be grateful that Inuyasha does not return Jakotsu's... affections." Sesshoumaru said, choosing the right words.

"By the way, I noticed the way he's dolled up with mascara and make-up, is he actually performing today?" Sesshoumaru asked, changing the subject and saw the way Bankotsu's blue irises lit up, before darkening.

His mouth curled into a soft smile of affection, something that obviously didn't reach his eyes and Sesshoumaru knew this by the way his eyes hardened.

"He tried to... persuade... me into letting him perform, but as always I said no. He'll understand, he always does" Bankotsu said with confidence, but for some strange reason Sesshoumaru had a bad feeling, a feeling of foreboding and he knew something would be going down tonight.

How much can you push someone before they push back?

There was a slightly awkward silence, each lost in their own thoughts.

Jakotsu's face... Bankotsu thought, closing his eyes to hide the pain he felt. ... It has a fiery red blemish marring his pretty face... I hate it... but only because it screams at me... evidence... that I lost my temper and my control.

Bankotsu opened his dark blue eyes.

He was pulled out of his thoughts when he saw Sesshoumaru stretching - what seemed to be - his sore muscles.

"Well I'm going to get ready" he said, breaking the silence.

Bankotsu nodded, closing his blue eyes momentarily.

As Sesshoumaru walked out of the office, Bankotsu watched him leave with dark eyes, his heart heavy with guilt. He noticed a zippo lighter on his desk. He picked it up and began to play with it, watching the fire burn brightly.

He closed it and smiled. His smile was anything but warm, in fact it seemed as though the light had dimmed underneath his smile.

He got out of his leather seat and walked to the corner, his fingers lightly caressing an old picture of Jakotsu, with that wretched half-breed he noted with disdain.

Inuyasha, I think it's time I've paid you a visit Bankotsu thought, his blue eyes gleaming darkly with cruel intent.

I think it's time you've learned the truth. The real truth... after all Sesshoumaru's kept it hidden from you long enough.


- - - - -


When they had finally decided on who was going to be on whose team - which was girls versus boys - Sango racked up the balls and looked Miroku square in the eyes.

"Heads or tails?" She asked softly, but Miroku hadn't heard a thing. He was so fixated on her; his eyes were focused and trained on her pouty mouth that he hadn't even realized she had spoken.

"Mi-ro-ku. Mi-ro-kuuuu-kun" Sango called out, but the only thing Miroku heard was his name on her mouth.

The breathy whisper, the quiet caress and he knew what he wanted. He wanted the fruit of her lips.

A slap on the back of his head made him realize what he was doing.

He was lusting after Kagome's best friend when he already had a girlfriend!

"Owww" he cried out in a groan of frustration; his hand instinctively moving to the back of his head where he was slapped, pretty hard... that is, hard enough to make his head throb with guilt.

"Stupid! Pay attention! Heads or tails? You know what forget it. Heads" Inuyasha's loud voice broke through his thoughts.

I know what you were doing Inuyasha's eyes told Miroku as they sought and found his own.

Miroku's eyes widened momentarily before hardening. He gaped at Inuyasha; his mouth opening and closing a few times.

He's more perceptive than I thought Miroku concluded, trying to avoid eye contact with Inuyasha, as he finally gained control of his gaping mouth.

"... Tails..." Kagome uttered softly, breaking through Miroku's thoughts.

"Wha...?" He said, meeting Kagome's startling blue eyes.

"I said tails, Miroku-kun, which means..." Kagome paused and smiled, her pearly whites flashing in a smile of seduction, a smile of seduction meant for Inuyasha.

"... We get to go first" Sango's voice finished for Kagome, something that immediately drew Inuyasha's attention. He cleared his throat and allowed a smug smirk sprawl across his mouth.

"Exactly" Kagome said, her smile never faltering, even under Inuyasha's piercing, watchful gaze.

"Well even if we had won against you two lovely ladies, we still would've let you go first, right Inuyasha?" Miroku interjected smoothly, while turning his head to look at Inuyasha, blue eyes harder than glass.

"Down boy" he breathed, his voice turning sour in Inuyasha's ears. Inuyasha regarded him with annoyance.

Miroku knew him well... a little too well.

Inuyasha rolled his eyes muttering a soft keh as he waited for someone to make the first move.

Kagome and Sango both exchanged dry looks, before a dark feral gleam entered Kagome's blue eyes. She lowered her eyes quickly to hide the gleam, but couldn't help the evil grin unfurling on her mouth. She shrugged nonchalantly, while removing the triangle and positioning the white ball. She leaned forward, her brow furrowing in concentration as she positioned her stick to hit the ball she wanted and she wanted...

She shook her head.

Don't wish for it, just get it she thought biting her bottom lip.

She closed her eyes.

Hit the mark she thought as she let the stick fly smoothly through her index and middle fingers.

She watched the white ball roll smoothly towards the other balls. With a loud crack, the white ball made contact and all the other balls scattered. She winced, but watched as a green striped ball flew into the right corner pocket. She tossed Inuyasha a saucy smirk and laughed when she heard a string of profanities fly from his mouth. Kagome shot Sango a look and Sango bit her bottom lip, knowing what that look meant. She tugged on the black sleeve of Miroku's uniform shirt.

His blue eyes instantly met her brown ones and Sango sucked in a sharp, ragged breath.

Blue, like his she thought.

Something rose up in her chest, overwhelming and powerful --

Miroku cleared his throat, catching Sango's attention.

The tidal wave that had threatened to break and crash across Sango's heart slowly sank back down again, becoming just another turbulent ocean storming within her chest.

He's not yours -- you could never belong together -- Kagura would kill you -- you don't even know who he is -- he doesn't know about you -- he never will --

Sango blinked in perplexity, flushing prettily when she realized her delicate digits had touched his mouth, her other delicate fingers cupping his cheek, her fingers, sliding through his silky hair.

Miroku froze, but only for a second. It was as if Sango had taken an ice pack and jammed it through his heart.

Her touch... her touch is so intoxicating Miroku thought dazedly, before blinking a few times and telling himself - focus.

He reached up and stopped her fingers from caressing his hair, from running his fingers through it

This is fake... She has to stop making it seem like it's so real... like someone wants me, wants to touch me like what she's doing now. She has to believe that the only person who will touch her will be her husband, not me. Miroku thought, pulling away from her.

She lowered her eyes looking at him through lowered lashes.

I forgot... she thought, swallowing a lump in her throat.

I forgot that he's not Bankotsu... he just has those same eyes... at times. I should really get over this, over him Sango thought, flashing Miroku - what she thought - were one of her best smiles.

"Ano... Miroku-kun, let's go get some drinks" Sango said and that was all the persuasion Miroku needed.

Sango put her stick down, watching as Miroku did the same, before walking in front of him. Miroku watched the little black skirt flutter around her legs, coming dangerously close to revealing more than what - he was sure - Sango intended. Her thin, yet well sculpted thighs were tense as she walked in front of him. His eyes unknowingly fell to her round bottom, where some of her raven hair was brushing against the top of her skirt, a clip holding it in place. He was mesmerized by the way her raven hair danced even through her tense movements. The dim lighting that caught her hair brought out the natural shine that seemed to be a dark brown - or was it red? He wasn't sure, nor did he choose to care.

It was as if Sango felt the weight of his stare on her back, because she turned her head halfway, looking back over her shoulder at him. Her light brown eyes narrowed in anger. She gritted her teeth and turned away from him, ignoring him completely and stunning him. He felt his right hand twitch and fought back the urge to rub Sango's bottom. He hadn't noticed when she got to the counter, nor did he notice when she took a seat at the stool, he did realize though that he was at the counter when he knocked into a stool, almost tripping in the process.

Sango gave a soft giggle and something about the giggle squeezed Miroku's heart, clinging to it like a caress. The laugh was sweet, light, and he decided he liked it. Sango smiled, and patted the stool next to her.

"You might as well take a seat Miroku. Kagome's notorious when it comes to playing pool" Sango remarked, her lips curling into a smile of affection.

"I can see that" Miroku said, as he took a seat and watched Kagome with lidded eyes. He too, smiled when he realized Inuyasha was looking at her with a mixture of disbelief and awe.

"So... I-- wha.. oh I'll take a coke, what about you Miroku?" Sango asked, startled by the interruption.

"I'll have the same" Miroku remarked, watching the clerk take out two bottles of coke before placing them in front of both he and Sango. Sango looked at him expectantly and he realized he had to pay. A slight pink flushed worked it's way to his cheeks as Sango laughed at him. He paid the clerk and got back his change. Sango took a sip of her soda, before setting it back down on to the counter and began to swirl it around in her hand. She bit her bottom lip.

"So... how's Kagura?" Sango asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Miroku blinked in shock.

He never expected to hear those words from Sango's mouth.

"She's... she's all right I guess, she's kind of mad at me" Miroku admitted sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck with his hand.

Sango looked up, surprised.

"Really?" She asked, shocked.

Miroku nodded his head.

"Oh..." Sango said softly, looking pointedly elsewhere as to avoid Miroku's inquiring gaze.

"What about you? Why don't you have a boyfriend?" Miroku asked.

"I do... or rather I did... it's a long story" Sango explained seeing the shocked look on Miroku's face.

Sango's brown eyes looked at Miroku in amusement and once again he flushed heavily while turning away from her. Sango's hand slid over the rippling muscles in his left arm. Drawing a much needed breath, Miroku took in the tangy, spicy, yet sweet scent that wafted from Sango's body. It wreathed through his brain, and sank sensual claws into him before tugging.

"Why do you look away?"

The soft probing question had Miroku's light blue pastel colored eyes meeting Sango's cocoa colored ones. He looked at her face.

Its exquisite he thought feeling dizzy as her scent became too much to bear.
Her large, round eyes stared at him with sincerity and worry.

He loved the way her face looked and who wouldn't with her exquisite face, round, large brown orbs, a perfect little nose, and a full rosebud colored mouth that begged to be kissed. He leaned forward, blue eyes trained on Sango's mouth.

I need to... to taste her... Miroku thought dazedly.

Sango too, leaned forward, her bangs brushing against Miroku's forehead as her mouth came dangerously close to his own. He too, closed his eyes expecting to feel Sango's soft, supple mouth against his own.

"Is this all right?" Sango whispered, still not opening her eyes.

Miroku blinked, surprised.

"It sure feels right" he whispered against her mouth before he brushed his mouth against her own. Sango shuddered. He intended to press his lips against her own more firmly but a loud Ha had them both pulling away from each other.

They both turned their heads to see Kagome laughing and sticking her tongue out at Inuyasha, before waggling it at him.

Neither noticed the way Kagome's blue eyes widened, or when she froze, or even the way Inuyasha gave a possessive snarl, gold eyes glazing over with lust. The only thing they did realize was that Kagome had won the whole game of pool by herself.

"Kagome won" Sango realized.

"So it seems" Miroku said, turning to look at her, but she refused to look at him. He sighed and focused his attention on her alone.

"Sango..." he started off wistfully. "Listen I---"

"We won Sango-chan, we won!" Kagome's loud shout of joy startled both Sango and Miroku.

Sango gave Kagome a small smile and for some reason, Kagome realized the smile seemed... forced.

"We did, but only because of you Kagome, I never even played" Sango said and saw the guilt flash in Kagome's blue eyes.

"Oh... sorry" Kagome said, looking down at her feet.

"No, no, Kagome-chan its fine, I really didn't mind" Sango said, reassuring her friend.

Kagome smiled and scowled when she heard Inuyasha's next words.

"She cheated!"

She glared at Inuyasha.

"I did not! You're just a sore loser" Kagome hissed.

Inuyasha smiled and walked forward, bending forward until his mouth was perilously close to Kagome's ear.

"But we can both be winner's Higurashi, if you know what I mean" Inuyasha whispered huskily and Kagome knew instantly knew what he meant and Inuyasha knew she knew by the way her face burned crimson.

She glared at him before smiling sweetly. She took a step forward, grabbing Inuyasha's silver forelocks and tugged on his ear, until his ear was close enough to her mouth.

"Inu... Inuyasha..." Kagome purred, fingers playing with his forelocks.

"Y-yes?" Inuyasha stuttered, his mouth as dry as a dessert.

"Go to hell" Kagome hissed, tugging on Inuyasha's ear, hard and she smiled darkly when she heard his loud yelp.

He pulled away from her and glared at her, gold eyes piercing into her soul.

He flashed her a cold smile.

"Oi Higurashi, do you want to know what hell's like...? No, not you Higurashi, not someone as pure as you. You'd never know what hell's like, but I've been there and back and trust me it's not pretty, but since you're telling me to go to hell, well I should tell you one thing..." Inuyasha said, his breath running across Kagome's ear.

"I'm already there" he hissed making Kagome wince.

"Inu-" Kagome started off and was cut off by Inuyasha's low growl.

"Don't Higurashi..." Inuyasha warned.

Miroku's blue eyes widened, before hardening.

Things are starting to get out of control, I should put this to an end.

"So I think we should leave, it's getting pretty late" Miroku said, looking at the watch on his wrist.

Kagome gave him a pained look, before biting her bottom lip.

"You're right" she whispered. "We should leave."

Miroku gave a mental sigh of relief as Kagome's blue eyes lit up. Her mouth curled into a mischievous smile.

"You should take Sango home Miroku-kun since she doesn't have a ride" Kagome said, her blue eyes feigning innocence as she saw the shocked looks in both Sango and Miroku's eyes.

"What?!" They both cried out in unison.

"I said..." Kagome started off exasperatedly.

"We heard you Kagome-chan. It's just... I mean is this a good idea?" Sango asked with hesitation.

Kagome smiled brightly.

"Of course it is. Unless there's something you're not telling me, ne Inuyasha?" Kagome said, turning to look at Inuyasha.

He looked surprised.

Weren't we just arguing a few minutes ago? He thought, giving Kagome a strange look.

She rolled her eyes at him as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. He quickly caught her meaning.

"Right... well Miroku? Is there something you're hiding?" Inuyasha asked innocently, biting the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing at the looks Miroku kept shooting him.

"No! I mean, no, there's nothing at all" Sango said, lowering her brown eyes.

"I see" Kagome murmured, before flashing Miroku one of her best smiles.

"So can you take Sango home Miroku-kun?" Kagome asked, looking at him with large, round eyes.

"I..." Miroku started off, but stopped at the look of triumph that crossed Inuyasha's face.

"Actually I can" Miroku said, blue eyes hardening.

Kagome smiled in satisfaction.

"Good" she purred.

"Bye Sango-chan" Kagome called over her shoulder, as she proceeded to drag Inuyasha out of the pool hall with her. Before she left, she turned her head and called over her shoulder, "Have fun!"

Inuyasha snorted.

"Oi Higurashi, I'm sure they'll have lots of fun together" Inuyasha said tossing both Miroku and Sango a lewd wink.

Kagome and Inuyasha's laughter could be heard as they exited the pool hall.

How humiliating! Sango thought, her face burning crimson.

She cleared her throat.

"Can we leave now?" She asked, her face still burning.

Miroku nodded his head.

"Yes, let's leave" he mumbled.

Before I lose control...


- - - - -


"Inuyasha" Kagome called, biting her bottom lip as she watched him get on his motorcycle.

I can't believe I put myself in this position, but I guess this is the price of my friend's happiness. I hope that you and Miroku finally get somewhere... Sango Kagome thought with a wistful smile.

"Yeah?" Inuyasha responded, not looking at her.

Kagome gnawed on her bottom lip.

"Can you... will you look at me?" She asked timidly.

Inuyasha's brows furrowed.

He turned to look at Kagome and his eyebrows rose in surprise.

"I-I just... what I mean is... I..." Kagome babbled.

Inuyasha laughed and Kagome shuddered at the sound. His laugh was deep, rich, and sultry and she decided she liked the sound. Maybe it was because Kagome felt Inuyasha didn't laugh much or maybe she liked it because of the way it made her jittery, either way, it had a strange effect on Kagome.

Inuyasha gave her a soft smile which had Kagome gaping at him.

He has a beautiful smile she realized. And it's real!

Her eyes grew wide and Inuyasha's laughter tore her away from her thoughts.

"I know what you want to say Higurashi" he said, turning away from her. "You're forgiven, now get on the damn bike, before I leave you"

Kagome sighed.

Just when I thought I was getting somewhere with him... I suppose I shouldn't expect anything less from Inuyasha, after all he is a Takahashi Kagome thought with frustration.

But you don't really know him her conscious whispered to her.

She made a face.

Shut up! She growled in her mind, marching over to Inuyasha's bike.

Inuyasha tossed Kagome a helmet which Kagome easily caught.

"Here, let me help you with that" Inuyasha said, getting off the bike help her.

Before Kagome could open her mouth to protest that she knew how to put on a helmet, Inuyasha was standing in front of her and taking the helmet out of her hands, to ease the helmet onto her head. His fingers brushed a few strands of her soft, ebony hair out of the way to adjust the straps of the helmet. He leaned forward making sure the helmet was securely in place and took a deep breath, letting his senses flood with her unique scent. He had to shake his head to evacuate the fuzzy daze he had entered.

She smells so good he thought. I have to move away from her.

Reluctantly, he pulled away from her, and got on the bike to put on his own helmet. He turned to look at Kagome, who still hadn't gotten on the bike and was staring at him as if she'd never seen him before.

"Well Higurashi, are you going to get on the damn bike or not?" Inuyasha asked gruffly.

Kagome blushed.

"I'm coming" she said, muttering under her breath, "unfortunately."

"What was that?" Inuyasha said, quirking a brow at her.

"Nothing" Kagome mumbled, avoiding his perceptive gaze.

"Hmmm" Inuyasha muttered, freezing when he felt her slide down on his bike and encircle her arms around his waist.

"I'm ready" she said, her voice jittery and nervous.

"Have you ever ridden a bike before?" Inuyasha asked, and immediately remembered seeing Kagome on Miroku's bike in the school yard.

He inwardly groaned.

"Yes, I've ridden one before."

Inuyasha swallowed deeply. The low, raspy whisper of her voice only added to his misery.

"Then you know how to straddle the seat, right?" He asked nervously, his voice squeaking.

You stupid coward! His demon snarled. If you were a real man, you'd know how to handle her.

He gulped and tried not to think of how good Kagome looked with her legs spread wide across the padded seat or how well her body fit onto it and against his own.

If it were someone else I would--

Someone else? His demon questioned in a low purr. Why is this girl so different Inuyasha?

I-- Inuyasha's human side started off, but was cut off by Kagome's shy whisper.

"Inuyasha?"

His human side sighed in relief.

He raised a brow.

This was so unlike the Higurashi he knew at school.

"Yeah?" He said.

Kagome shook her head.

"Never mind" she whispered.

"You're weird Higurashi" Inuyasha commented. "But I like you."

And Kagome could have sworn her heart leapt into her throat.

She closed her eyes as she rested her head against Inuyasha's back.

"I like you too... Inuyasha" she whispered quietly and oddly enough Inuyasha believed her because he felt the rapid beating of her heart against his back and surprisingly enough he felt his own heart beating rapidly because somewhere deep inside his heart, he knew he had feelings for her too.


- - - - -


He shifted in his seat, becoming rather uncomfortable with what he was wearing. His body was encased in tight, figure hugging black pants, a scantily clad black shirt covering his upper torso, and his feet, adorned in scuffed black leather boots. He looked perfect, that is perfect for a stripper.

Ah, but that's what you are, ne Sesshoumaru? His conscious whispered. A stripper!

His conscious laughed mockingly at him as his eyes narrowed angrily.

What would daddy dearest say if he knew about your second job?

Nothing because he'll never know Sesshoumaru hissed back, his mouth opening to reveal his fangs in the mirror, the sharp canine's glittering menacingly.

Are you trying to scare me? His conscious asked, astounded. Have you forgotten that I am you?! That, you and I are one in the same?!

Sesshoumaru sighed pushing his conscious to the back of his mind at the moment as he closed his mouth. He realized that he still hadn't done anything with his hair yet. His long, pale digits combed through his long, silky locks, pulling some of the silvery strands back into a long braid, or at least he tried to. He gave a sigh of frustration and shook his head, closing his eyes.

I hate this job... he thought to himself, completely changing the subject.

Unfortunately for him, his conscious would not leave him be, in fact, it seemed as if it wanted to torment him.

You hate this job because you know too much information about the people here... Information, you want nothing to do with, but you're connected to them. They are part of a family, you are all tangled... held together by one thread and that thread is... Inuyasha. His conscious whispered to him.

He growled lowly, telling himself or rather his conscious, in a menacing whisper to - shut up!

His conscious laughed.

The laugh was void of any emotion.

Did I hit a nerve? It asked tauntingly.

"Here, let me help you." Someone offered in a soft, quiet voice, pulling him away from his thoughts.

Gold eyes snapped open, only to meet alluring, orangey red colored orbs in the mirror, orbs that refused to meet his own.

He frowned not liking what he saw.

Hiten... he thought, the hairs of the back of his neck rising threateningly. Why are you trying to help me? What don't you want me to see?

Sesshoumaru pondered this as he watched Hiten transform his mussed hair into a tight braid. He inwardly winced a few times, when Hiten's fingers combed through a few knots. Hiten must have seen something in Sesshoumaru's eyes because he suddenly whispered softly, "Sorry."

He bit his bottom lip and chewed on it, his brow furrowing in concentration.

"You have such long, pretty hair..." Hiten mumbled, trying to break the awkward silence.

Sesshoumaru glanced at Hiten's appearance and in a way, Sesshoumaru could admit that he was envious of Hiten, envious because of the clothes he was wearing. They looked much more comfortable than the one's Sesshoumaru were wearing. Hiten wore a half-buttoned loose white T-shirt and tight black pants, the pants hugging his bottom. Sesshoumaru's eyes moved upwards to Hiten's braid.

No wonder, he knows how to make the braid look so... perfect... he's had practice Sesshoumaru thought.

His father's words came back to haunt him - Practice makes perfect...

His mouth lifted in dark irony.

Why bother? I could never please you father, I was never good enough for you, you wanted me to be better, you wanted me to be Inuyasha... my half-brother... that dirty half-breed... I hate him... but only because he's still so innocent, so young, so childish... I wish I could be innocent, but you've taken my innocence. You forced me -- pushed me into a world where I saw everything become corrupt, where my innocence wilted, like a flower without water. You stole my innocence and showed me how to be... ruthless, cold, and heartless... like you. Besides, if nothing in this world is perfect, then why bother trying? Sesshoumaru thought, his words directed at his father and partly towards himself.

And it was then and there that his frigid eyes rapidly melted into a soft honey bronzed color, revealing sad, painful eyes.

And for once, as Hiten watched the contorting emotions on Sesshoumaru's face, he could have sworn he saw the little boy in him that he claimed had long ago vanished. Reaching out to comfort him, Hiten ran his fingers over the, now, finished braid. Sesshoumaru flinched and moved away from him, glaring at Hiten. Hiten inwardly flinched, but kept his ground.

"I know..." Hiten said softly.

"You don't want my sympathy, but that doesn't mean you have to be so lonely. I'm your friend, I want to help you..." Hiten uttered helplessly, biting his bottom lip and winced. His teeth instantly let their hold of his bottom lip go where Sesshoumaru noticed the way his bottom lip was torn and held...

... Dry blood...? That could only mean he's been biting his bottom lip most of the day, something he only does when he's nervous, or anxious... which could only mean something's bothering him... he thought, looking at the boy who, still wouldn't meet his eyes. I know something's wrong... because he's not talking, which could only mean...

Honey colored eyes widened momentarily.

"Hiten" he called, startling the boy and making him jump.

He's scared... How... odd...

"Y-yes?" Hiten answered, his body quivering.

"What are you hiding?"

"Wha-what do you mean Sesshoumaru?" Hiten asked, his orange orbs, finally meeting Sesshoumaru's in the mirror.

Sesshoumaru felt the need to roll his eyes upwards in exasperation.

"I mean... what happened today? Why are you acting... strange?" Sesshoumaru said, gold eyes sharpening.

"I-I- Shippou... he-I..." Hiten said, his voice dying in the back of his throat as he saw Sesshoumaru's eyes harden when he mentioned the name Shippou.

"What about Shippou?" Sesshoumaru questioned softly, a distinct threat lacing his words.

"He... I just want to---" Hiten was cut of by Sesshoumaru's mechanically clipped voice.

"I know what you want, but..." Sesshoumaru trailed off, his mind wandering off to a cold, dark place he'd kept hidden for a long time.

But the truth will come out eventually and he'll find out soon enough, Shippou won't live forever... and Hiten deserves to know... Sesshoumaru thought.

Oddly enough, both, Sesshoumaru and Hiten were almost one in the same because Sesshoumaru worked to forget... to forget everything and Hiten worked because he wasn't able to see Souten and Shippou together, looking so happy and content. In a way, it hurt and disgusted him and Sesshoumaru knew and that's how their bond of friendship formed, because of their loneliness, because they were both... loners.

"But what?" Hiten prompted and was suddenly startled to see the soft look that had suddenly glazed over in Sesshoumaru's eyes.

Sesshoumaru blinked and cleared his throat, pulling away from the dark place that had suddenly sunk claws into his mind before pulling.

"I've often been told I'm heartless..." Sesshoumaru said completely changing the subject, - that is, changing the subject in Hiten's eyes - before pausing again.

"Eh?" Hiten blinked in surprise.

"What does that have to do with what we were just talking about?" Hiten asked, his eyebrows raising to his hairline.

"I'm not blind either... I see things that others can never see" Sesshoumaru said with a sad, soft smile.

"But what about Shippou?" Hiten asked, frustration lacing his tone.

"Be careful with him, he's... weak... very... weak" Sesshoumaru stated in all seriousness as his eyes sought to find Hiten's.

Hiten gaped at him in surprise, before taking a few wary steps back to sit down at the dresser, toying with the few strands of his hair, as he tried to decipher the meaning behind Sesshoumaru's words.

Weak? Hiten thought, a cold feeling seep inside of his heart and twisting it painfully. What does he mean when he says the word... weak?

I'm cruel... Sesshoumaru told himself as he looked at himself in the mirror. He lowered his eyes and looked at the black cowboy hat on the dresser. He picked it up and placed it on his head, cocking it jauntily to one side as gold eyes gazed back at him seductively, but underneath that exterior, he could see his own pain and guilt. But I'm not heartless, for if I were I would have told you that he's... dying...


- - - - -


Sango's fingers clutched at Miroku's waist and she was sure he could feel her fingernails digging into his skin, by the distinct little movements he made. The wind blew in her face making her feel both hot and cold at the same time, a churning feeling settling in the pit of her stomach.

I hate motorcycles... Sango thought, clenching her eyes shut and gritting her teeth together. And yet, I always end up in situations where I have to ride them... oh God, please take me now.

Sango felt nauseous, or perhaps she felt worse than nauseous, whatever she felt, she was sure she wanted to get off of this bike, but not only because she was afraid of riding on motorcycles, but because Miroku got under her skin, something that rarely ever happened when she was with others. Yet she couldn't exactly pinpoint what it was about Miroku that got under her skin, she just knew that there was something about him that brought her to the point of insanity.

Miroku stopped the motorcycle, but Sango's head did not move it's position from his back, but she did glance upwards, only to realize they stopped at a red light and she knew this because of the bright red sports car on the lane next to their own. Sango took deep gulps of air, clutching Miroku's waist even tighter than before. Miroku quivered underneath her fingers and Sango removed her head from his warm, comforting back to blink in perplexity.

Is he... laughing? She thought with awe.

Her brows furrowed as she removed her arms from his waist, angrily slapping him hard in the back.

"Owww... Sango!" Miroku hissed, his body still shaking with suppressed laughter.

"What's so funny?" Sango hissed, russet orbs blazing angrily.

"It's just that... you're acting like a petrified cat. Breathe Sango. Inhale, exhale -- that's right, in and out --" Miroku said trying to calm her down.

"I think I know how to breathe, thanks" Sango replied, shifting in the seat and unconsciously rubbing herself against Miroku. He sucked in a sharp, raspy breath.

"Try to sit still Sango, we're almost there..." Miroku said through clenched teeth.

Sango huffed and placed her head back down on his back.

"Please hurry" she mumbled quietly, snaking her arms around his waist once again.

"Trust me I'm trying" Miroku mumbled.

But not for your sake, for my own...


- - - - -


Rin, being a smart, young delinquent - in Shippou's eyes - knew the signs of going crazy. Of course, she would have expected no less seeing as how it had been the same routine for the last half an hour.

Move. Stop. Pick someone up. Drop someone off. Move. Stop. Pick someone up. Drop someone off. Move. Stop. Pick someone up. Drop someone off. Move. St----

"Rin?" Shippou's soft voice drew her attention, something she was instantly grateful for because she felt her head pounding and she was sure that she was getting a huge migraine.

"Hmm?" Rin answered, turning to look at him.

She was instantly met with worried green gems and a quivering mouth.

"What's wrong?" Shippou asked timidly, as if afraid his question would bring her over the edge.

She rolled her eyes and felt the strange urge to laugh hysterically.

"I'm tired of sitting in this damn bus, tired of it moving, and stopping every five minutes" she hissed, brown eyes flashing dangerously.

Shippou gave a sheepish laugh, before shaking his head, orange bangs brushing against his eyelids.

"Rin..." Shippou said in a soft sigh.

"It's a bus, what do you expect it to do?" He asked and saw her open her mouth, a slight gleam entering her brown eyes.

"Don't answer that" he warned in a soft growl.

She laughed softly, her laugh vibrating against his ears.

"Dear, sweet Shippou are you trying to tell me that was a rhetorical question?"

Shippou shot her a dirty look and Rin laughed again.

"Why yes it was Rin... now will you please tell me where we're going?" He asked, his body tense.

Rin shook her head, playing with the strands of hair that fell against her face.

"No, no Shippou, I want it to be a surprise" she said, the corners of her mouth curling into a bitter smile.

And trust me, the surprise will be anything but pleasant Rin thought, the bitter smile forming into a frown.

"Awwww, please tell me Rin" Shippou said, adding a whine to his voice.

How can I answer him without giving too much information away? She thought and suddenly realized she couldn't. Besides, it's not my place to tell him.

"No, so stop asking" she snapped, turning to look out the window once again for fear of letting Shippou see the truth in her eyes.

"All right" Shippou said in a quiet whisper, backing down.

Rin realized that she may have been too harsh, but knew it was for his own good...

... Right?

Her large brown eyes stared out at the city, watching the buildings pass by her in a blur. Her mind felt muddled and lost. She gnawed on her bottom lip, clenching her fists together.

How will he react? She thought, her finger nails digging into her palms, even though she had a pretty good idea of how Shippou would react.

"Rin?" Shippou called out again, his voice lower than the last time he called her name.

"Hmm?" She answered again, black brows rising as she turned to face him again.

"Why are we in this part of town? It's going to get pretty dark soon" Shippou commented and Rin smiled relieved, knowing the subject of where they were going was dropped... for now.

"You'll see" Rin said, eluding as to where they were going.

She glanced outside the window again, watching feathers of fog curling around the bus' window. She noticed vaguely, that it was already dark.

How odd... for it to be getting dark when it's spring... she mused.

"It's already dark" she mumbled, turning to look at Shippou again.

His brow furrowed and he leaned forward to look out the window and at the sky.

"So it is" he muttered.

"I don't understand why there's fog though when it's spring..." Shippou trailed off, biting his bottom lip.

Rin's mouth curled upwards in irony.

Maybe there's fog because the sky knows what's going to happen... I just hope you don't get hurt when you find out the truth Rin thought.

"It must be one of these odd spring nights, you know?" She answered, flashing Shippou a smile.

She was so lost in her thoughts, that she almost missed the bus stop, both she and Shippou were supposed to get off at.

"Shit" she cursed and pulled the bell.

It's just my luck that nobody wants to get off at this stop... Rin thought, her cheeks puffing out angrily.

The bus stopped so suddenly that Rin's body lurched forward and she had to grab on to the metal bar in front of her. She shook her head and blinked a few times and noticed the bus doors opening.

"Go, go" she cried, pushing Shippou out of the seat.

"H-hey" Shippou stuttered, looking at Rin with wide eyes.

"Move, this is where we get off" Rin hissed.

Shippou's face fell.

"Oh..." he said, his stomach churning into knots.

Why do I have such a bad feeling? I'm with Rin, what could go wrong? Shippou thought, moving to get off of the bus, Rin following closely behind him.

But just because she's with you doesn't mean something won't go wrong, after all little boy, how many times have you gotten into trouble when you were with Rin? His demon purred softly.

"That's true" he mumbled, a tiny knot of a frown forming between his brows.

"What's true?" Rin's soft voice broke through his thoughts.

"Huh? Er... uh-nothing" Shippou said quickly, a little too quickly.

Rin's russet orbs narrowed.

"I see... well let's go" Rin said, tugging on his sleeve.

They walked a few blocks, neither saying a word. It was a comfortable silence, not the awkward kind a person usually felt when they were uncomfortable. Rin's head was lowered, but an odd, strange tingling sensation slithered down her spine which made her head shoot up, only to meet empty black eyes.

"Suikotsu..." she breathed, her face twisting in a queer combination of disgust, annoyance, and surprisingly enough, fear.

There was just something... off about Suikotsu that only Rin could see, maybe it was the looks he gave her, the leery looks, the jealous looks, or the lewd winks he shot her, whatever it was, Rin knew she couldn't be around him.

But there was another part of Suikotsu. A sad, lost, lonely Suikotsu. A softer side he usually never showed.

It's almost as if he has two different hearts, but how can that be? Rin thought, never losing eye contact with Suikotsu.

"Who?" The soft voice pulled Rin away from her thoughts and away from Suikotsu's stare.

Rin turned to look at Shippou who wore a mask of confusion.

"He's nobody, just the bouncer of the club Ba--" Rin was cut off by Shippou's hard voice.

"Babylon...? What kind of name is that? And why are we at a club?" He asked, confusion in his voice.

He frowned at Rin, suspicion kindling in his green gems.

"What are you hiding?" Shippou asked taking a step forward.

Rin took a step back and tried to avoid Shippou's eyes.

"N-nothing" she said.

"Then why are you stuttering?" Shippou asked, suspicion laced heavily in his tone of voice.

Angrily Rin crossed her arms in front of her chest.

"All right already. You really want to know? Do you?" Rin hissed taking a bold step forward, her eyes narrowing into slits.

Shippou seemed genuinely startled by Rin's bold actions, before biting his bottom lip.

"Well I-I-I..." he trailed off awkwardly.

"Good because your surprise lies within that club" Rin said pointing her index finger towards the bright, flashing neon lights of the club. "Now let's go."

Her smile was so soft and reassuring that Shippou felt the need to take the hand she offered him. They both walked towards the club and Shippou froze when he saw the menacing man before them.

"Suikotsu..." Rin said, her eyes holding Suikotsu's.

"Rin..." Suikotsu said.

Shippou sensed a strange mutual agreement between the two because this man named Suikotsu let them walk up the few stairs before they proceeded inside the front doors and Shippou knew this was the point of no return. It took a moment for Shippou's eyes to adjust to the dim lighting, but once they did he took in the sights and sounds before him. There was a bar running the length of one side, tables and chairs distributed throughout the rest of the area. There was also a small stage with a DJ booth at one side and the stage had a broad catwalk extending out from it. All along the length of the walk were bodies dancing and grinding into each other, mesmerized by the beat of the music.

"I've never seen so many people before" Shippou breathed.

"I know" Rin said watching as Shippou turned to look at her. She gave him a broad smile and Shippou smiled back, albeit weakly.

Shippou shot Rin a suspicious look.

"Why did you bring me here?" He asked.

Rin smiled softly.

"Because, I wanted you to see the entertainment" Rin answered.

"Entertainment?" Shippou echoed, confusion clouding over in his green eyes.

"The entertainment is in the form of erotic dancers" Rin answered.

"WHAT?!" Shippou screeched, shocked.

"Why?" Shippou asked, still not understanding.

"Watch" Rin answered softly, her eyes trained on the stage. She bit her lip in anticipation, watching as the lights began to dim.

"Show time" she breathed.

"Welcome one and all to club Babylon, please take a seat and enjoy the show... I'd like to present the one and only... Hiten!" The DJ's voice faded out from the loud speakers.

Madonna's song Pretender started out in a slow, sultry beat emitting from the speakers and without warning a blue spotlight shone only to reveal a slender form standing with his back facing the audience.

He's a pretender, he knows just what to say
He's a pretender, yeah you meet him every day
He's a pretender, that fish that got away
He's a pretender, why'd I fall in love

Rin spared a glance at Shippou and watched slowly as his eyes grew wide, his pupils dilating.

"Oh... My... God.." he breathed.

"It's... Hiten..."

And that's when everything came crashing down upon him.


I really am sorry for this late update, honestly I am! But, I've just had so much and as I've said before, half of this chapter got deleted, which meant I had to write it all over again, which was pretty annoying, plus I had certain scenes in which I had no idea where to put and whatnot, so basically... Also I know what chapter 6 is going to based on and I really don't want you to suffer, so let's just get on with this...

Himura-sensei: Oro? ::Blinks at the audience:: What am I doing here? This fic isn't even about my anime!

Scented: ::Glares at him:: Just read the cue cards, ne?

Himura-sensei: Hai ::nods:: Next on Tease Me, Taste Me, Take Me-- Oro? What a name for a fic! I mean-- Next on Tease Me, Taste Me, Take Me -- ::gulps:: Kagome and Kikyou have a confrontation about Inuyasha's past, Shippou finds something about Kagura that shocks him and he realizes Sesshoumaru's betraya--- Oro? ::turns to Scented:: Oro? Kagome and Kikyou have a confrontation about Inuyasha's past? But I thought Kikyou was a one night sta--- ::Scented suddenly starts to choke him::

Scented: You're not supposed to read that! I scratched that part out! ::Blinks at Himura-sensei who is suddenly swirly-eyed::

Himura-sensei: Or-oro? Gomen ne, Scented-dono ::Faints::

Scented: Oi, Battousai, are you all right? Okay... maybe I choked him a little too much, ::laughs:: Oops? Anyway, I should start writing for chapter 6 of this story, but before I go, I'd like to know what you guys thought of this chapter. Thanks!

Side Note: To my Just Grind, Breathless, and Fatal Attraction readers: Do not despair, I am currently writing for each of these chapters which means chapter 10 of Just Grind will be out soon, along with chapter 4 of Breathless, thanks to Shizuka Kaze, and chapter 2 of Fatal Attraction... along with a new story I am currently working on. Please don't forget to leave a review!

Minor editing!

- Scented -