If You're Not The One

A/N: Well, here ya go. Please enjoy and remember to review.
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The rest of the week went by rather quickly for Kagome and she had been able to avoid Sesshomaru for the most part. He had been cordial towards her and had not spoken about their argument so she decided that if he was going to let it drop, then so was she.

She scooped up the files that he had requested and made her way to his office, smiling over at Nazuna as she walked by. They had lunched together a couple of times and Kagome knew that she and Nazuna had forged a strong friendship. After she had passed Nazuna’s desk, she readied herself for Sesshomaru.

She knocked on his door, and then let herself in, taking note that he did at least have the decency to look at her and acknowledge her presence. She handed him the files and then turned after he gave her a nod.

When she made it to the door, she was stopped when she heard his voice. “Kagome, Hojo will be stopping by to see me. Escort him in as soon as he gets here.” He said.

“Yes, Sesshomaru-Sama.” She replied, and the let herself out of his office. She walked back into her office and sat down at her desk. She was glad that she was going to get to see Hojo. He had been quite busy and had started to date Yumi, so that did not leave a whole lot of time for her. When she heard the elevator bell ring, she got up and made her way to her door. She smiled when she saw Hojo step out, but was surprised to see Kouga Makasuno with him. She gave both men a bright grin and walked over to them.

“How are you doing today, Hojo?” She asked as she accepted his hug. When she pulled back, she saw his eyes soften and he said, “I am fine, Kagome. I understand that you have been having some difficulty with Sesshomaru and I would like to know if there is anything I can do to help.”

Kagome laughed. “Now, where did you hear that? No, I am not having any problems with Sesshomaru-Sama and I am guessing that this has to do with what happened earlier in the week with Mr. Makasuno’s invitation. Sesshomaru-Sama is just looking out for me, and thought that what he did was in my best interest. I am sure that he meant no harm.” She said, but then she turned to Kouga and gave him a soft smile. “Thank you very much for the roses. I loved them.” She said, shyly.

Kouga smiled down at the small female. “Kagome, I would really like to take you to dinner. Sesshomaru cannot dictate who you see and I will tell him so. However, I would like to amend my invitation a bit. There is a party that I have to attend and these affairs get rather boring. Would you be available to attend this party with me and save me from a night of pure boredom?” He asked, his blue eyes sparkling at the young woman.

Hojo laughed. “Of course, she would like to attend. It will be fun, and it will give Kagome a chance to see Yumi again.” He said, giving Kagome an irresistible smile.

Kagome laughed and then motioned for the men to follow her. She heard Hojo whisper to Kouga that he would give him her number after the meeting. She had a feeling that Sesshomaru would not like to hear that she was going to be attending a party with Kouga, but then again, it was none of his business.

She knocked on Sesshomaru’s door and then opened it and led the men inside, closing the door behind them. She saw Sesshomaru look up and stiffen when he saw Kouga, but he did not say a word.

Hojo narrowed his eyes at Sesshomaru. Kouga had filled him in on what had been said between them and Hojo was sure that Kagome probably heard about it as well. However, Kagome was not the type to tell anyone when she was being mistreated, and Hojo would not do anything to humiliate her. He looked over at Kagome and then at Sesshomaru. He knew that Sesshomaru caught his unspoken meaning and was relieved when Sesshomaru said, “Kagome, that will be all. Be at your desk, and I will call you when we are finished.”

Kagome nodded and said, “Yes, Sesshomaru-Sama.” She walked to the door and quietly slipped out. She had a feeling that it was about to get rather heated in that office and was glad that she had been excused.
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“I understand that you have decided to take it upon yourself to decide who Kagome can and cannot date. Tell me, Sesshomaru, why is it that you do not want her to see Kouga outside of this office?” Hojo asked.

Sesshomaru’s eyes narrowed. “I will remind you that I do not answer to you, Hojo, and my reasons for telling Kagome that she cannot date a colleague is due to the fact that I don’t need some love struck girl neglecting her duties while she fantasizes over her new lover.” He said as he leaned back in his chair. He glanced over at Kouga and saw that the man was almost beside himself in anger.

“You have no right to tell her not to see me. You are not her caretaker and I will be damned if you stop me from seeing her.” Kouga said, his fists clenched in anger.

Sesshomaru leaned forward. “I have every right to protect what belongs to me, Makasuno. As long as she is in my employ, she belongs to me.” He said, his handsome face never showing his displeasure.

Hojo coughed. “Sesshomaru, Kagome is going to be attending the party that my company is throwing and she will be on Kouga’s arm. This is not something that you have any control over, and I don’t want there to be any arguments. I understand how you feel about your assistant dating your colleagues, but in this case, an exception can be made. I want Kagome to attend and get used to these kinds of functions.” He explained, his tone telling Sesshomaru that there was no room for discussion and that his mind was made up.

Sesshomaru felt his blood pressure rise, but would not give these two idiots the pleasure of seeing him upset. He shrugged and then said, “Fine. However, if this causes a disruption in my office, you will hear about it.”

Hojo nodded, and looked over at Kouga, who was smiling. It was clear that he was very happy about this turn of events. Both Hojo and Kouga stood up and then wished Sesshomaru a good day.

Sesshomaru kept waiting for Hojo to mention the fight that he and Kagome had gotten into, but to his surprise, the words that he was sure that he would hear never came. Instead, both men saw their way out and closed the door behind them. Sesshomaru leaned back and processed this new information. He did not like the fact that Kagome was to be Kouga’s date for this affair and he would have a hard time explaining to others why his assistant was dating his associate. This simply would not do at all. He got up and made his way to his door, but stopped when he heard Kagome’s laughter. He opened the door a bit and saw Hojo lean down and kiss Kagome’s cheek. He whispered something to her and then moved towards the elevator. Kouga stepped forward and also planted a kiss on her cheek and told her that he would call her later and they could discuss the party. After Kagome agreed, Kouga nodded and then followed Hojo and got onto the elevator. Both men looked very happy and were soon gone from sight.

Sesshomaru heard Nazuna squeal and say, “Kagome, I am jealous. I would love to be in your shoes right about now. I can’t believe that you are going on a date with Kouga Makasuno. You are going to be the envy of many women, my friend.”

Sesshomaru fought the urge to walk out of his office and scold the women for being silly, but he managed to quietly close his door and walk back over to his desk. How dare she go out on a date with Makasuno. Was this his thanks for giving her a job? He shook his head and picked up his phone. When Kagome picked up her line, he gruffly told her to get into his office and then slammed the phone down, cutting off anything she had to say.

When Kagome arrived, he pointed to a chair and then said, “I bet that you think that you are very clever, Kagome. Well, let me tell you this, I don’t appreciate you going behind my back to Hojo and informing him of my refusal to let you see Kouga. That kind of behavior will not be tolerated.”

Kagome felt her blood boil. “Ok, you need a reality check. First, I don’t go advertising my business to others. Second, you are not my father and I will see whomever I want. As long as I don’t bring it into the office, you have no say as to what I do or whom I see. Third, get over it. I am very aware that you hate the idea that Kouga is interested in me, but I really don’t care. I am a grown woman and you will not dictate to me how I run my life. Now, I do a very good job as your assistant, and I really need this job, but I won’t let you bully me.” She said as she glared at him.

Sesshomaru gripped the pen in his hand and returned the glare that was being sent his way. “Kagome, do not forget to who you speak.” He said, his eyes flashing in anger.

Kagome took in a deep breath. “I know to whom I speak, Sesshomaru-Sama. But, please remember that I am your employee and not your personal responsibility. I am a big girl and can go out with anyone I choose. If you will excuse me, I have files to go over for your meeting tomorrow.” She said, her voice catching as she tried to contain her anger.

Sesshomaru was about to let loose on the young woman, but then thought better of it. Fine. If she wanted to go out with Makasuno, then so be it. It was not as if he cared about her. All she was to him was a favor and nothing more.

“Go. Get those files to me before the end of the day.” He said, his eyes lowering to the reports in front of him.

“Yes, Sesshomaru-Sama.” Kagome replied, standing up and walking to the door. When she got to the door, she quickly opened it and walked out, not daring to look back at her angry employer.

When she was gone, Sesshomaru looked up and rolled his eyes. What in the hell had he gotten himself into with this girl? Sure, she was wonderful as his assistant, but her willfulness was a pain in his ass.

He finished up the report he was reading and then realized that he, too, needed a date for that stupid party. He thought of the many women he could ask, but none of them seemed up to par for his needs. He needed a woman who would look good upon his arm, yet know how to step back and let him take center stage. He was the most eligible bachelor around and he could not help but think that his reputation would be shattered if he could not find a suitable date.

‘Kagome would be perfect on my arm.’ He thought, however, he gave a loud snort and shook his head. There was no way in hell he would ever stoop so low as to ask his personal assistant to be his date to anything. Besides, she was already going with Makasuno. He could not help how his blood boiled at the thought of that bastard’s name. How dare he come in and attempt to seduce Kagome right out from under him. Well, he would make sure that this party was something Makasuno would never forget.

He thought of other women who would fit his needs, and then sighed. He picked up the phone and dialed an extension. When it was picked up, he said, “Kagura. There is a party that I must attend and I need someone to be my date. Would you care to join me?” He smirked at Kagura’s eagerness to agree and he then hung up on her. He knew full well that Kagome did not like Kagura. He had overheard her and Nazuna talking about her the other day, and he could not wait to see Kagome’s face when he told her that he would be taking Kagura to the party. If she could fuck with him, then he could fuck with her. He picked the phone back up and dialed Kagome’s extension. “Get in here.” He ordered when she picked up.

When he heard her soft knock, he looked up and watched as she walked into the room, closing the door softly behind her. She made her way to his desk and stood before him.

“You will call a florist and order a dozen red roses. They are to be sent to Kagura on the seventh floor. Have them sign my name and tell them to deliver the roses this afternoon. Call Kagura before the end of the business day and ask if she received them.” He said, staring directly at Kagome.

Kagome tensed. When did he start liking Kagura. She slowly nodded, and then asked, “Is that all, Sesshomaru-Sama?”

“Actually, Kagome. Kagura and I will be attending the party that you and Kouga will be at, and I expect you to treat Kagura with respect. I know of your disdain for her and I will not tolerate you humiliating her.” He said, staring straight at her.

Kagome’s mouth dropped open. How dare he! She glared at him and then turned on her heel. When she got to the door, she turned around and said, “Do not worry, Sesshomaru-Sama. I will not even utter one word to Kagura. After all, I don’t normally associate myself with whores.” With that being said, Kagome opened the office door and walked out. She closed the door, leaving Sesshomaru to glare after her.

She stormed by Nazuna and went into her office and picked up a phone book. She dialed a florist and gave them Sesshomaru’s order. After she was done, she placed the phone back on its cradle and then stared out the window. It was clear that Sesshomaru was pissed at her for going with Kouga. But, when had he developed feelings for Kagura and why was he trying to rub her nose in it? Well, whatever it was, she did not really care. All she wanted was for this damn party to come and go. She was getting sick of hearing about it.
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Sesshomaru could not believe what Kagome had said to him. She had actually called Kagura a whore and thus implying that he could not do any better in finding a date. What a little bitch. He scowled at the door, but then he stopped and thought about it. Was all of this really necessary? After all, Kagome was only his assistant and nothing more to him than that. So, why did he care if she hurt over his choice of dates? He groaned when he realized that by sending flowers to Kagura, she would get the impression that he wanted something serious with her. Well, after the party, he would tell her to fuck off. He did not need some stupid woman trying to sink her claws into his fortune. He returned to his work, confident in his resolve. However, a smirk played across his lips as he recalled Kagome’s parting words. She had a point. He could not see Kagome consorting with the likes of Kagura. Kagome was too much of a lady for that.
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On the day of the party, Sesshomaru had decided to give Kagome the day off, saying he was sure that she needed the day to make herself presentable. Kagome had fumed all of the way home, cursing him into oblivion for making her come in and then telling her to leave. Did that man not own a phone? Of course he did, but he just wanted to see her suffer. Now, as she made her way back home, Kagome shook her head and attempted to look on the bright side. At least she did not have to listen to his comments on this day.
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Sesshomaru had a headache. How was it that he got himself into these messes? Here he was, a very powerful businessman and one of the most formidable men alive and he was now dodging one woman’s calls and trying to provoke another one into verbal fights.

Ever since that day he had sent Kagura roses, the bitch had been calling up to Kagome’s office, telling her to give Sesshomaru little messages. Kagome had rolled her eyes and finally told Kagura that she would put her through to Sesshomaru and she could tell her new boyfriend that she loved him herself. When she dialed his line, she quickly told him that his woman wanted a word with him and pressed the button that would connect him to Kagura. Kagome had to bite back a giggle as she listened to Kagura gush about how much she was looking forward to being his date at the party and that she had a small surprise planned for him. When she was finally done, he had snapped at Kagome to get into his office. Once inside, he glared at her, only to be met with her shrug. “Don’t glare at me like that. I am tired of your girlfriend calling me and snapping at me when she can’t talk to you. I figured that you would want to keep the little woman happy, so I let her talk to you.” She said, her eyes never leaving his face.

Sesshomaru’s stoic mask remained in place, but his eyes told her that he was highly pissed. “The next time Kagura calls, tell her that I have left for the day. And, Kagome. Don’t ever do that again.” He warned.

Kagome smiled her sweetest smile at him, and then turned on her heel. She was at the door, and then said, “Kagura also wanted me to remind you of her surprise and I was wondering, since you have me buy everything else for you, should I pick up some condoms? After all, from what Kagura has been saying, she intends on making you a very lucky man after the party.”

Sesshomaru’s eyes widened. They had been doing this to each other for days now, but he had to admit that Kagome’s gall was one to be envied. No longer did she cower in front of him and he grudgingly admitted that she was the perfect assistant for him. She never allowed him to bully her and always had something to come back at him with. For that, he had to give her credit. It was not everyday that someone stood up to him, but she did it perfectly. Of course, he still did his best to intimidate her. However, she had completed her move and now it was his turn.

“Yes, I do believe that those would come in handy. Get the ones that are for ‘her pleasure’. I want to be sure that Kagura enjoys her time with me.” He said, smirking. Yes, that would do nicely. He watched as Kagome nodded solemnly. “Yes, that is a great choice. Kouga informed me that he bought the exact same ones, so I am positive that Kagura and I are both going to be very pleased.” She replied, opening the door and walking out, leaving him to stare after her in pure astonishment.

Sesshomaru could not believe what she had just said. If Kouga Makasuno dared touch her in any manner that was not gentlemanly, he would rip his balls off and use them during his next tennis match.

Now, as he sat in his car and made his way home, he watched as the many buildings flew by. He could not help but get excited to see how Hojo presented his company to the rest of Japan’s more important businessmen. He, also, could not wait to bump into Kagome. With Kagura on his arm, he was sure that Kagome would make a scene, and then Makasuno would have to apologize for her outburst. Yes, that would be a fitting humiliation for Kouga Makasuno. Makasuno’s greatest pet peeve was to be embarrassed, and that is exactly what was going to happen.

When he arrived at his home, Sesshomaru walked into the manor and went to his quarters. He would take a nap to refresh himself and then get ready. This party promised nothing but a good time.
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Kagome stared at her reflection and sighed. She looked damn good and she was sure that Kouga would agree with her. She sighed happily as she straightened the dress, which was a soft ivory color. It was strapless and flowed down to the floor. With her dark hair pulled up and her light makeup, she knew that she looked stunning. She whirled around when she heard the knocked at her door. She smiled and went to open it, sure that Kouga would approve of her dress.

When she opened the door, she found her date smiling down at her. But, when his eyes got a glimpse of her dress, he whistled and then said, “Kagome, you have to be the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.” He reached out and took her hand. He made her slowly spin around so that he could see the entire dress. When she had made a complete turn, she looked up at him and found him grinning.

“Well, I can see that I will need to be on my toes tonight, or else, someone will come and steal you from me.” He said, his grin getting wider.

Kagome giggled. “Don’t worry, Kouga. Tonight, I am all yours.” She said, her eyes glancing down at his outfit. She had to admit, he looked handsome in his tux. His long black hair spilled down his shoulders and down his back and made him look angelic.

He shivered and said, “Now, now. Talk like that will make me want to keep you longer than just tonight.” He reached out and took her keys from her. He watched as she grabbed her small clutch and then joined him outside. He locked the door behind her and then placed her keys in the palm of her hand. He held out his arm, and grinned in satisfaction when she laced her arm through his. He led her to a waiting limo, and nodded at the driver when he opened the door for them. Stepping inside, Kagome sat down on the leather seat and smiled at Kouga when he sat next to her. He returned her smile and then told the driver where to go. When he leaned back, he took one of Kagome’s hands and laced his own with it. “I am glad that you are attending this event with me. Normally, I would have attended this thing solo, but with you, this is sure to be a great experience.” Kouga said, squeezing her hand in his.

Kagome sighed. “I’m sorry if I caused any kind of problems between you and Sesshomaru-Sama. I know that he is against me dating his colleagues.” She said, looking down at their entwined hands.

Kouga sighed. “Don’t worry about it. He will get over it. Personally, I think he is angry that I got the better-looking date. I hear that he is going with that Kagura woman from his company. I honestly don’t know what he was thinking. I am sure that he will realize his error in inviting her sooner or later. I am just going to sit back and enjoy the show.” He said, reclining back into the seat. He wrapped one arm around Kagome’s shoulders and gently brought her backwards. “Relax, I don’t bite.” He said, as he smiled warmly at her.

Kagome nodded and felt her body relax next to his. She certainly hoped that there was no trouble at the party. Personally, she did not think she could deal with another ordeal.
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Sesshomaru grew impatient. The bitch was taking her sweet time in getting ready and he did not want to miss a single thing that this party had to offer. He was sure that Kagome would dress in something inappropriate. After all, she had no experience when it came to these functions.

When Kagura finally emerged, she wore a long overcoat and winked at him. “I’m ready.” She purred, her voice low and sultry.

He sighed and stood up. “Come. The limo is waiting and we have wasted enough time.” He said, motioning for her to hurry up.

Kagura huffed a bit, but grabbed her purse and walked out her door. She quickly locked it and shoved her hand into Sesshomaru’s. Together, they walked to the elevator. Once they were in the limo, Sesshomaru found himself staring out into the darkened sky. He didn’t care to listen to Kagura’s rambling and his glare was effective when it shut her up.

When they arrived at the hotel that was hosting the party, the driver of the limo opened the door and he stepped out. He had seen Kagura shrugging off her overcoat, and did not look at her when she stepped out. However, the looks that he got from many of the people made him turn his head to look at his date, and to his extreme displeasure, he found Kagura in a very revealing dress, leaving nothing to the imagination. It was bright red and was low cut in the front. The skirt of the dress stopped at mid-thigh and to top it all off, she wore fishnet stalking. She was smiling broadly and happily took his arm. He could feel his body grow cold as he heard whispers about how his taste in women was lacking. He glared down at Kagura and he fought the urge to turn around and take her back to the limo. The bitch looked every bit the tramp, and now, she was clinging to his arm and acting as though she were on cloud nine.

He led her into the hotel, and bit his lip from snapping at the few women who were snickering at them. Kagura would pay for this humiliation. He walked into the ballroom and found that it was quite full, many of his business colleagues were already there and mingling. He led Kagura to a table and told her to sit down. When she did as she was told, he leaned over and whispered, “I told you to dress appropriately, and here you sit, dressed like a common street walker. Do not move from this spot, Kagura. You will not humiliate me anymore than you already have.”

Kagura’s face turned white and she watched as he disappeared into the crowd. When she saw a waiter pass by, she called for him and took a glass of wine. She had a feeling that she was going to need something to calm her upset nerves.

Sesshomaru made his way through the crowd and finally came upon Hojo, Kouga, and Naraku. All three men looked just as handsome as he did and he joined their small group.

“Ah, Sesshomaru. Are you enjoying yourself?” Hojo asked, his eyes twinkling in amusement.

“Yes, I am having a good time. And how are you this evening?” Sesshomaru inquired, not really caring, but it was good manners.

“Hojo just announced that he is soon to be a married man.” Naraku said, his red eyes narrowing with disgust. It was well known that Naraku did not believe in marriage and despised the entire idea all together.

Kouga laughed. “Yes, he is about to take the plunge into the world of wedded bliss.” He said, slapping Hojo on the back.

Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes. “Congratulations.” He said. Sesshomaru looked around for a moment and then looked at Kouga. “And where is your date this evening? I was sure that she would be hanging all over your arm tonight.” He said. He watched as Kouga slowly turned towards him.

“Kagome is visiting with her friends, Miroku and Sango. As for hanging all over my arm, Kagome is not that kind of woman. Speaking of that kind of women, where is your date, Sesshomaru? I heard that her dress caused quite the commotion.” Kouga countered, enjoying the look of fury that crossed Sesshomaru’s face. Kouga was well aware of Sesshomaru’s hobby of humiliating people, but got very upset when he was the one humiliated.

“Kagura is none of your concern. Focus your attention on your own date, Makasuno.” He said, the warning tone of his voice telling Kouga to back off quickly or face the consequences.

Kouga smirked and looked at Naraku. Onigumo had watched the entire display with interest and nearly laughed when Makasuno turned the tables on Takashiro. That was not an everyday occurrence and it was clear that Takashiro was highly distracted. He was about to make a comment to further egg Takashiro on, but a vision caught his eye and he was rendered speechless. His eyes traveled over her figure and he found himself wishing that he had been the one to ask her to the party instead of Makasuno. Hojo noticed that Naraku was staring over Kouga’s shoulder and he turned to look. His eyes grew soft and he held out his arms.

“Kagome. How are you this evening?” Hojo asked, wrapping his arms around the small form of his first and true love.

Sesshomaru was speechless. Kagome looked stunning and more beautiful than she did in the office. The gentle ivory color accented her skin coloring and made her dark hair and dark eyes stand out even more than normal. He glanced over at Makasuno and saw that he was watching Kagome with appreciative eyes.

“I’m fine, Hojo. This is a great party that you have thrown.” She said, stepping back to stand at Kouga’s side.

Hojo nodded. “Yes, it has turned out pretty well. How are things going at work, Kagome?” He asked, his eyes flickering towards Sesshomaru.

Kagome gave a laugh. “Things are fine. I am really enjoying myself. Kouga, I was wondering if you wanted to dance.” She said, looking up at her escort. She smiled when he nodded. He looked at his companions and said, “I will speak to you later, gentlemen. My date wishes to dance, and who am I to deny her?” He wrapped his arm around Kagome's waist and led her out onto the dance floor and proceeded to pull her into his arms. Hojo shook his head as he watched the couple.

Hojo laughed and said, “Yes, I do believe that Kouga is exactly what Kagome needs in her life. He is a good man and will treat her right.”

Sesshomaru snorted. “She can do much better.” He stated, his eyes locked upon Kagome’s form.

Naraku laughed. “Oh, and I suppose that by saying better, you are talking about yourself.” He said, his eyes scornful.

Sesshomaru glared over at Naraku, but then turned away. He could not help but cast glances over at Kagome. His eyes narrowed as he watched Makasuno lean down and whisper into her ear. When she laughed, its melodic sound reached his ears and he fought back the urge to walk over to the pair and yank her out of Makasuno’s arms. He would speak with her, but later. He did not want to cause a scene.

For the next two hours, Kagome found herself in Kouga’s arms, dancing. On a couple of occasions, she danced with Hojo and even Naraku, but spent most of her time with Kouga. They finally sat down when it was announced that they were going to be serving the first course of the dinner.

Kouga led Kagome to her chair, and was dismayed to find that Sesshomaru and his date, along with Naraku and his date shared the same table. When he pulled out Kagome’s chair, he noticed that Sesshomaru was shooting small glances at Kagome.

After the food had been served, Kagome placed her napkin in her lap and began to enjoy her meal. It was clear that Kouga had a serious fascination towards her and would occasionally look over at her and give her an adoring smile. Sesshomaru found himself hard pressed to not reach over the table and slam Kouga’s face into his plate of food. How dare he look at Kagome in such ways. When the first course was finished, the waiters quickly brought out the second course and served the guests.

Kagome felt sorry for Sesshomaru. Kagura was clearly drunk and kept doing her best to entice him into giving her a kiss. He kept glaring down at her, and finally snapped at her to leave him alone. She had pouted and then looked over at Kagome.

“So, you finally realized that Sesshomaru is not in your league and went for something more your speed. Good for you, Kagsone. Even little twits such as yourself deserve to be happy.” Kagura slurred.

Kagome smiled at Kagura. “Thank you. I am really enjoying myself and am quite happy. You seem to be enjoying yourself as well, Kagura.” She said, her voice even and calm. She would not allow Kagura to ruin this night for her.

Kagura snorted. “Oh, I will be even happier once Sesshomaru and I go back to my place. I have something to give him that he will never forget.” She said, her loud voice causing many people to stop talking and listen to her words.

Kagome smiled and then looked up at Kouga. He gave her a reassuring pat on her hand and then looked at Sesshomaru. “Perhaps you should take your date home, Sesshomaru. She seems to have had one too many drinks.” He said, narrowing his eyes at his associate.

Sesshomaru bit his tongue. Damn that Makasuno. However, his thoughts were quickly interrupted when Kagura’s hand began to make its way up his thigh. He grabbed her hand and gave it a hard squeeze. Kagura yelped and then said, “Sesshomaru Takashiro, don’t you ever do that again.”

Kagome’s blood froze. Takashiro? Sesshomaru Takashiro. Was that his name? Could he be the brother that had cut Inu Yasha out of his life once their father died? She felt Kouga’s hand upon her shoulder. “Kagome, are you alright?” He asked, his eyes full of concern.

Kagome nodded, and then looked down at her plate. How could she have been so stupid. He looks a lot like Inu Yasha, except he was much colder and his looks were a lot more refined. She looked up when she felt hands upon her shoulder.
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Hojo had heard Kagura say Sesshomaru’s full name. He knew that Kagome would put two and two together. He had to talk to her in private before anything else was said. He looked at Yumi, who nodded at him and told him to go to Kagome. She knew exactly what he intended to do. He walked over to where Kagome sat and placed his hands upon her shoulders.

“Kouga, would you mind if I borrowed your enchanting date for a moment?” He asked, his eyes telling Kouga not to deny him this.

Kouga nodded, and stood up. He helped Kagome to her feet and watched as Hojo escorted her from the ballroom. His eyes turned towards Sesshomaru when he stood up as well. Without a word, Sesshomaru followed Hojo and Kagome. Kouga looked at Naraku, who simply shrugged his shoulders. It seemed as though the party was about to get that more interesting.