An Unforgettable Friend

Title: Reality Check pt 3

Author: Kimisan/Aoshis_toy

Community: 30_YYH

Theme: #15. Switched

Rating: NC-17

Warnings: Language, Angst,

Resentment and fear trailed down her spine as the door opened. The pitching of her stomach didn’t stop even as she took a deep breath. It had taken two months longer than she thought but it’d finally happened. Her mother didn’t look happy as the demigod greeted them both. Kagome wanted to tell her mother that everything was okay but it wasn’t. If the older woman would believe that then she’d be back at the shrine not hounding her daily about eating right. The uneasiness intensified spying the three men standing behind him. “What brings you here Koenma? And with company?”


Kagome knew she was being rude since she’d been friends with two of the company. Even if she hadn’t talked to any of them in three months. Not since her birthday had she spoken with that bunch of people. It was better this way, to let the past go. Bad enough she had Hojo still hounding her daily. Kagome was just glad he wasn’t aware of her condition yet or she’d never get rid of him. Didn’t matter if he hadn’t caused it, the man wouldn’t care. She faked a smile as the greeting was returned.


“Don’t hello me Missy, you know why I am here. How long did you think to hide it? You should have came to me the minute you noticed. Do you know how many patrols I had to send out to capture youkai that had crossed the border to make it here?” Koenma made his way inside as the girl dismissed him with a shrug and began to walk in. How dare she treat him like this! They were going to have words before he departed. “We are going to talk now Kagome.”


“What would you have me say? That probably as many as I’ve killed? I didn’t come to you because there was no need for it. I know of your reasons and I am against them. I will not let you have it now, you’ll just have to accept my reasons on this. I kept it out of Naraku’s hands, I’m sure nothing here will be too much trouble.” Kagome waved the questions aside as she heard her mother gasp at her tone. She wasn’t in the mood for company. Not with how her life was going. She didn’t need help especially from the people behind him. “Tell you what, if I find myself back in a centipede’s jaws then I’ll give you a ring.”


“Kagome! Watch your tone right this minute. He’s here because he’s worried. And if I’m not mistaken those are your friends with him. I don’t care what kind of mood you are in, you will behave like a proper young lady. I didn’t raise you without any manners.” Mrs. Higurashi smiled and apologized to the four men. “Please forgive her, she’s been somewhat testy as of late. It’s to be expected I guess with everything going on. Come on in, I’ll make some tea.”


She grumbled as the demigod was led into the kitchen, her kitchen. It was her own apartment and she couldn’t kick the unwanted company out. What kind of bullshit was this? The scathing look directed at her hushed any complaints. While she wasn’t scared of the four males, she knew better than to talk back to her mother. How could the older woman understand? Koenma would want to know what was going on then she’d be forced to tell them everything. “Fine,” this was it. She was about to let the world in on her little secret.


Koenma took a seat at the table indicating the others to do the same. It had taken a few hours but he’d informed the three of what was going on. Just last week they’d picked up the readings of the Shikon once again. No surprise that it was coming from the miko’s apartment, explaining the recent outbreaks into the Ningenkai. All of the former team had been shocked to learn that someone they knew had once traveled through time. Not only that but was the Guardian of a powerful artifact. “We do not doubt your abilities. But we’d like to handle it this time. We do not need another Naraku episode to take place. We are trying to keep the peace between the three realms. This will cause those that would otherwise remain to themselves to turn hostile. You know what effect it can have on those that are weak. Or do I need to remind you?”


“Try and I shall remind you that I was dealing with this while you were still learning how to wipe your ass. Don’t you dare presume to preach to me about what the jewel can cause. Unlike yourself I have experienced that and more first hand. I didn’t read it from my father’s notes. My answer still remains the same. You can not have it at the moment. Later, I will be willing to hand it over. In a way you can say I have a use for it.” Kagome didn’t want to go into details. And if she had her way she’d just take that butter knife sitting innocently on the table and carve it out happily.


“That isn’t good enough. My father has ordered that I bring you back to the Reikai to have it extracted, by force if necessary. Kurama and Yusuke will do whatever it takes to get the job done if need be. We are to see that you get there safely as well. Please, come with me willingly and understand where we are coming from. The jewel must be taken where it can be kept from all those that would use it for evil. Be reasonable about this,” Koenma sighed as the anger flashed in the deep blue eyes. “We can understand your sentimental attachment to it. After all it is a link to your past and him. Even with it you should know that the power of the well is forever gone. Holding onto it will not allow you to return there or to him.”


“You understand nothing,” Kagome slammed her hand on the table making her mother jump. “I have no wish to go back. If I had it my way I’d carve the fucking thing out and hand it to you but as things stand you will not touch it. If you try to force me then I’ll purify Yusuke and Kurama. I’m not sure about Kuwabara or yourself but I assure you that you will think strongly before attempting to come near me again. You might not care for what is going on but you are a fool that happily follows his father’s orders like a good little lap dog. What pisses me off is knowing that you’d come down here and threaten me.”


“Kagome, if I may. We are only here to see that the jewel is taken somewhere safe. We don’t want you in any more danger either. Perhaps Koenma didn’t say things the right way. You say you wish to part with it but are saying you will not. Please explain to us why, then we can talk about this calmly.” Kurama saw the boiled up rage floating around the room. He was surprised Yusuke hadn’t blown up yet. He’d been pissed that the girl had lied about whom she really was. Not that the boy had any room to talk, he doubted the girl knew about his former existence either.


“There is nothing to tell, except that I am pregnant. Don’t even suggest it being removed carefully without disturbing the fetus.” Kagome felt a headache starting as she rubbed her sore temples. She didn’t want to explain this to them but it looked like she had no way around it. “Not long after I found out I was pregnant it came back. The same night, I had somewhat of a guest. Yeah, I know what you are going to say Koenma. If I was then you’d know since Reikai issues souls as soon as there is a heartbeat. But before you could I’ll just say someone beat you to the punch. You and I both thought the jewel was gone. It wasn’t, it was still inside me laying dormant. That was until the night I conceived. You should also know that the jewel was formed of two souls, that of Midoriko and a youkai.”


“Which one is in the child?” Koenma frowned at the explanation. He already knew where it was going. A power source so close fueled by souls. If it were possible for a soul to escape then it would, to find a new host. As things were the jewel and the fetus were part of the miko’s womb. How would they handle things now, what did she want to do? “Or do you know?”


“Yes, because of what I am the jewel remains purified. Which means the youkai soul can not do anything. It is Midoriko’s soul that has entered my unborn child. Even being one myself I’m not entirely sure on how the whole reincarnation thing works. But I do know that she’s gone quiet. The only warning she gave before hand was that if the jewel is removed before she is born then she’ll die. Until then her soul is still connected to the Shikon. If it’s removed before it’s time then the body shall die and the soul returned. I know you probably could care less, it’s just one casualty for the greater good. But it’s my child regardless of who’s reincarnation it may be. I will not let you take the jewel and kill it. It is the only thing I have left from it’s father, you will not take this from me. I’ll fight you, even if it costs me my own life. Which I highly doubt you want since I am the only one that has the power to purify the jewel once it is tainted. Also my death would cause it to become tainted before you even had a chance to get your hands upon it. So I think you should choose wisely before you act.”


“Are you really sure you want to keep it? After all Hojo ditched your ass even though you were pregnant.” Yusuke snapped as the girl turned to glare at him. She didn’t look pregnant to him but he doubted she’d lie about it. “Could have an abortion and then let him take the jewel. Not like you can’t find some other idiot to knock you up. Better than putting a lot of people in danger for someone that isn’t even born yet.”


“How dare you say that young man. That is an innocent babe, that has no control.” Mrs. Higurashi gasped as the man crossed his arms. She wanted to scream at the young man she knew had fathered the child. But Kagome had promised her not to say anything. The man still had no right to act so callous. “How would you feel if it were your child being threatened. Would you still be suggesting that if it were your child she were carrying?”


“I’d have to be desperate to want to fuck her. Secondly, she’d be the last person I’d want to have a child with. So we don’t have that problem, now do we. Regardless of who she happened to spread her legs for, that jewel isn’t safe. You sit there and speak of trying to protect the child but it and your own daughter are in danger every minute the jewel remains here.” Yusuke raised his voice as the older woman narrowed brown eyes at him. He knew how he’d feel if it were his but it wasn’t. And Kagome was in danger because she didn’t want to lose Hojo’s child. She might not want to lose the kid but he didn’t want to have Koenma sending him after the jewel after some lucky youkai managed to rip it out of her.


“Well, I never! Let me tell you one thing. How dare you sit there and lie?” Mrs. Higurashi stammered. She knew that the man might not care for Kagome but she knew enough. The man had indeed slept with her daughter. She didn’t have all the details about it but this had gone far enough. Kagome could continue to keep secrets but she wouldn’t have them in her family. She ignored the hand and the shouting her daughter was doing and continued. “You know darn well you’ve already done so. For that matter, the child is yours. Frankly, say what you want but you don’t deserve someone like my daughter. Why she even let you touch her is beyond my comprehension.”


“Are you out of your fucking mind woman?” Yusuke exploded as his three male companions turned to him with horrified expressions. He didn’t know what game the woman was playing at but he didn’t care for it. He’d fucking know if he’d slept with Kagome. Hell he’d be happier if the child were his but it wasn’t. Doing the girl in his dreams didn’t count either, his sperm wasn’t that potent. “I’ve never touched Kagome. If she told you so then she’s a damn liar. Don’t think to peg this on me because Hojo decided not to stick around. That isn’t my brat she’s carrying. If you weren’t old enough to be my mother I’d slap you for saying something so crazy.”


“Don’t you dare speak to my mother like that. I might be a lot of things but I do not lie and neither does my family. Let me assure you that I made the mistake of going along with some stupid ass bet of Keiko’s one night while up at the cabin. I’m sure you don’t remember since your were so fucking wasted you thought you were fucking Keiko. If you don’t believe me I’m sure she might admit how I came back almost two hours later and woke her up in my bed. I don’t need to justify myself to you. But don’t call me a liar. We slept together that night and since Hojo had an accident when he was in highschool and is shooting blanks, I doubt it’s his. If you want a test after it is born then be my guest. Until then get your ass out of my house. I don’t want you here, I’ve said all I’m going to.” Kagome ignored the shocked looks coming from everyone in the room. Even her mother seemed appalled at the admission. It hurt to admit the only reason he’d slept with her was because he’d been wasted at the time. So she wasn’t good enough on a sober day.


Could things get any worse for her? She’d just admitted that the only way she could get Yusuke to do her was to secret climb in his bed while he was too far gone to notice the difference between her and his wife. The room began to spin but she forced herself to walk away from the table. This wasn’t how she wanted him to find out if he ever did. Hell, she never wanted him to know. How could you tell the person that hated you that you’d done something so wrong and now he was going to be a father because of it. Shame made her cheeks redden as the awkward silence filled the room. It was only broken with the harsh scraping of the chair. Yusuke didn’t speak as he brushed by her.


The slamming of the door finalized it as her mother finally got up. Kagome shook off the comforting hand. It didn’t matter, not anymore. “Leave and don’t come back until after I’ve had my child. I’ll have the jewel waiting on you then. Come back and I’ll kill you.” Her voice came out strained as the room began to spin. They had to leave and get away from her. Now things were worse than before. She hadn’t wanted him to know about the baby. Hell, she didn’t want him to know about that night. It hurt too much for him to know. Now it’d get around just how sad she really was. The only way she could get a man is to get him drunk. “Don’t,” the hands came up to grab her as the spots appeared.


“Can you show me to her room?” Kurama took the dead weight as the older woman began to panic. The girl had merely fainted but needed to rest. He’d stay with her until they figured something out. He wasn’t sure what Koenma was going to plan on doing but him and Kuwabara wouldn’t let them touch her now. She was certain about keeping the child, she had to be. Why else would she even consider it if it had been conceived under those circumstances. There had to be more to it than that, if she wanted the child. She mentioned wanting it because of the father but if that father was Yusuke. He could only speculate at the reasons. It wasn’t his place to interfere or question.

Keiko saw Hojo tense when the loud voice came banging on her door. True, the house was still in her and Yusuke’s name but her husband had moved out. The divorce hadn’t taken place yet but things were through. She frowned but knew she had to answer the door. Hopefully there wouldn’t be any fighting. Nothing had been started since that day. Yusuke hardly spoke to her unless it was necessary. The chain came undone before her ex managed to knock it out of place. It creaked open revealing a very pissed off toushin. “Yes?”


“Don’t yes me dammit. I got two questions and you’ll answer me honestly.” He growled out seeing the other man there as well. “Good, it keeps me from chasing your ass down after I leave here. Keiko, when we are up at the cabins did you make some type of bet with Kagome? Something that would make her come to our cabin in the middle of the night. Don’t you lie to me either, I’m not in the mood for it. We aren’t together so it won’t change anything but I want the truth.” He had to know if it was possible. He could remember one night he’d been sure it was real but had dismissed it when he’d woken up to find Keiko back in bed with him. Was that the night she was referring to?


“Um, I guess it doesn’t matter if I tell you now. It started out with a simple bet that I made. I told her that you wouldn’t notice if it wasn’t me in the bed with you. She didn’t believe me so we planned on switching that night. We met outside and went to the other’s cabin. The plan was just to lay there to prove a point. Did you find out what happened when she came back? She said you were still sleeping and came back some time later. I’d fallen asleep but then I went straight back to the cabin. You were still sleeping when I got back. I swear nothing happened between us then, things didn’t happen until later.” Keiko hoped he didn’t think the cheating had begun then. It had been the start of things but she’d been faithful until later. “Why?”


“Can he have kids?” Yusuke turned to the man even though he asked the question of Keiko. Surely, if they were together the man would tell her something like that. His wife simply shrugged her shoulders and also turned to Hojo. The boy looked shocked that he’d ask something like that. His anger intensified when it appeared he wasn’t going to get any answers. The boy would or he’d beat it out of him. “Tell me, can you have kids?”


“That’s none of your business. I should tell you to go to hell.” Hojo backed up when the shorter but more menacing male took a step towards him. The pain from his last beating was still fresh in his mind. What did it matter? He’d have to tell Keiko one day if they stayed together. Kagome hadn’t cared so why would she? “No, I can’t alright. I got in an accident when I was younger, I refuse to go into the details with you.”


Yusuke knew Keiko would want to know why he was asking now four months after the fact. His gut twisted as the possibility became more real. Had it really happened? He’d had the girl with him and didn’t realize it. He swore and punched the wall. Keiko screamed as the wood gave way bringing down the entire paneling. What the fuck was he going to do now? Kagome wouldn’t want him around, things hadn’t changed except he’d had his chance but passed out instead. Why the hell hadn’t she said anything? Why did she allow it to happen? How was he to have known that they switched places?

She groaned seeing the telltale bulge as she turned sideways. “Great, two more months and I’ll be looking like a real porker.” The slightest smile lingered as the smell of food drifted under the crack. Her stomach growled as she reached for the sweats. The air was already turning chilly during the evenings. Soon, snow would start to fall. If at all possible she’d feel even more lonely. Already over six months and she felt like it would never happen. She wanted to have the baby already and go back to her own home. Koenma had agreed to wait but wouldn’t back down on his other demands. So she’d gotten stuck with Kurama as a guard for over two months. The fox was pleasant but that didn’t help.


When she was younger she’d always imagined what it would be like to experience pregnancy. In her mind she saw herself in a lovely home, a loving husband there with her. Her mother telling her what to eat and making sure she didn’t do anything wrong wasn’t the same. So much for having the dream of the father placing a hand on the large belly while waiting to feel movement. The only movement the father wanted was to feel himself between some blonde tramp’s legs. If he found her disgusting before she could only imagine how he’d see her now with the obvious stomach.


Well, she’d lost some weight due to the morning sickness but was her ass still too big? She had Kurama and her mother bitching about her weight but she knew she still wasn’t as slim as the other females he liked. Why did it matter? She could be anorexic and the man still wouldn’t want her. He had to know the truth now but still stayed away. It was because he was disgusted with the idea that he’d been there. Would he vomit if he remembered the way he’d been more than happy to stick his tongue there? Laughter bubbled forth at imagining his horrified look. “Hm, would serve him right too.”


“Yep, I should find him and rub it in his face, see how he likes it.” She rested her hand upon the round mound. A kick to her bladder reminded her of needing to pee before heading down. She made mental note not to tell her mother about the feisty movements. If she did the woman would hold her hostage for hours while trying to get the babe to move. Her thoughts were cut short when Kurama knocked lightly before opening the door. He looked spiffy in the suit and tie, was he going somewhere? “Oh, that’s right. You have that banquet to go to tonight. I totally forget, I feel so stupid.”


“Yes, and that is fine. Though I wanted to speak to you about something. Kuwabara called at the last minute and said he couldn’t make it by. I know you’ll be fine by yourself but a problem came up. Not only did Koenma have a problem with me leaving for so long but so did Yusuke.” He saw the confused look on her face. “Look, I know you don’t want him here, we both do. But Koenma wants someone here. I’ve called him and he’s agreed to do it until I get back. I have dinner already made for you and your mother. You both have a lot on your plates so, let’s try to keep things civil. It’s only for a few hours.”


“Fine, I’ll just take dinner in my bedroom. Do whatever you want.” She pouted when he gave her a scolding look. No matter how close they were as friends now, she didn’t have to like this. Like she wanted to put up with Yusuke’s mouth. If he brought a fucking chick over here with him she wasn’t going to keep her mouth shut. Bad enough he still refused to speak to her and wouldn’t admit the kid was his. He probably still told everyone that she was lying. Explained why when people discussed her baby they still said, ‘it’s father.’ She was getting awfully tired of hearing, ‘You and the baby’s father,’ instead of, ‘You and Yusuke.’ She knew none of them believed what she’d said.


Well, if she was going to be forced to spend the evening in her room then she might as well go fetch her food before the ass arrived. The cold tile was felt even through her socks and she made another mental note to turn up the heat. Oh yeah, she was starving. At least her Guard was an awesome cook. She knew she was lucky she hadn’t gained fifty pounds by the way she ate. They insisted she didn’t eat enough but she felt like she overdid it at times. As she rounded the hallway she stopped in her tracks. Another mental note, time to buy some paper, the fox needed to die. Her cheeks flared seeing the man already sitting in the living room talking to her mother. The word ‘traitor’ came to mind to see her mother talking to him as if the man hadn’t called her a liar months before. Straightening her spine she gave the woman a stern look before trying to walk pass.


“Damn, you got big.” Yusuke was stunned to see the evidence of the pregnancy. It had been hard to ignore and try not to confront before. Now seeing just how large she was with child made his chest tighten. Kurama said she was in her sixth month already. Which meant in three months he’d be a father. Every day he wondered how to work something out but nothing ever came to mind. Maybe telling her the truth? Then again she wouldn’t believe him if he did. Instead he kept an eye out on the outside, while Kurama did it inside.


She felt the tears well as the words stung. Not even a hello but an insult in under a minute. This had to be a record or something. Well if she had any doubts on how he felt, he’d just clarified them with just that one sentence. Okay, so she had a stomach, she was pregnant. Turning on her heels she almost collided with Kurama who’d be standing behind her. He would still experience pain later for not warning her. She could have gone the rest of her life without hearing him point out the obvious. “Excuse me.”


“That wasn’t very wise Yusuke.” Kurama snapped as the toushin seemed confused at the girl’s sudden departure. The man really didn’t have any tact to speak of. Mrs. Higurashi excused herself into the kitchen leaving the two alone. Perhaps the woman was also a tad bit clairvoyant and sensed what was about to happen. He didn’t bother trying to hide the irritation he felt. “If you don’t watch what you say then I will not leave you alone with her. I refuse to come back to find her in labor because you couldn’t keep your foolish mouth shut. Any man knows you do not tell a pregnant lady that she’s big. They are self conscious enough, you don’t have to insult her.”


“I wasn’t,” He groaned and buried his hand in his palms. Dammit, perhaps Kurama was right and he should just keep his mouth shut. “Dammit man, I was referring to the baby not her. Shit, guess I stuck my foot in my mouth now. And I know she’s not going to listen if I try to apologize either. What the hell do you suggest I do? She won’t talk to me and it pisses me off. So, I fucked up but what good is admitting it now?”


“None since you’ve had the bad habit of insulting her in the past.” Kurama frowned when the man couldn’t deny the accusation. He’d heard enough to know what was happening. He couldn’t figure out why Yusuke was doing it just yet besides the obvious which made no sense to him. “You know I never really understood your relationship with Keiko but refrained from speaking my mind. This time I will however speak my piece. We both know while you may have been wasted and didn’t realize what you were doing at the time but Kagome was not. Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why she let it happen? She doesn’t strike me as the type to sleep around. And no matter what excuse she gives, if the girl hadn’t wanted it then it wouldn’t have happened. You either like the girl or you don’t. If you pull your head out of your ass and decide that you do may I give some friendly advice. You aren’t going to win anyone over by being an asshole.”


Kagome could smell the food that was on the other side of the door. She cursed the aroma that had her stomach rumbling for her to acknowledge the light tapping on her door. Her mother wouldn’t give up until she’d opened it and accepted the dinner. If not she’d have to listen to her and Kurama both bitch about her skipping a meal. Hadn’t they heard him? Just because they were too nice to say it didn’t mean someone else was. She’d known it wasn’t right to eat all that ice cream last month. Stupid cravings would have her bigger than a house. “Indulge my ass, it’s not them unable to fit into their jeans.”


She sighed but didn’t get up but chose to pull the pillow closer to her chest. The sound of the door opening made her tense, “I’m not hungry.” Doubt remained that she’d be left alone. It was either Kurama or her mother coming in to lecture her. Let them carry the kid next time if they were experts at it. Just because she’d enjoyed making it didn’t mean she’d been prepared for the nine months of hell.


“Well, your mom told me to bring this in to you since I was on my way up.” Yusuke noticed the tension return as he spoke. She hadn’t been expecting him to come in. Not that he could blame her. Kurama was right but he just didn’t know where to begin to make amends. He sat down on the chair placed next to the bed as she kindly gave him her back. Her mother said to make sure she ate but the girl wasn’t about to do it with him in the room. Not when he’d stuck his foot in his mouth. He didn’t need any dinner, he’d just had his fill of rubber. “I know you can hear me so I’m going to go ahead and talk. First off, I wasn’t trying to insult you. I just hadn’t seen you up close since that day and I was shocked at how much you were showing.”


“Dammit, I’m not Kurama or Kuwabara, I don’t know how to say shit without it coming out crude. I didn’t mean it that way and I know you don’t believe me. Look, I’m sorry I didn’t believe you about this either. I mean can you blame me? I do remember that night but not only was I still slightly intoxicated but I thought I was dreaming. What the fuck was I supposed to think? I went to sleep with Keiko in the bed, that happens, and then I wake up with Keiko still in the bed. Not to mention that you didn’t say anything.” He felt like he was talking to the wall but somehow he knew she was listening. “I know the kid is mine and I don’t want to just walk away. I don’t blame you if you don’t want anything to do with me. We’ve never really been friends. But I’d like to try. At least for the baby. I know what it’s like to grow up without your father and I don’t want my child to have to know it. I’m sure I’ll still get on your nerves but I’m willing try to have a civil relationship.”


Kagome hugged the pillow closer considering the words. As much pain as it would cause her she knew he had a point. She really didn’t want her child to be raised without a father. She wasn’t cruel enough to find another man to take that place when the real father was willing to be there. It wasn’t his fault he didn’t want a romantic relationship with her. He hadn’t even lied at one to get her in the sack. That had been nothing more than a drunken mistake on his part, foolish on hers. So, they’d never be close but shouldn’t they try to be civil for their baby’s sake? She didn’t want her child to grow up seeing them constantly bickering at each other like rabid dogs. It wasn’t her babe’s fault that she loved someone that didn’t really care for her. “Fine, but the first time you insult me I’m going to purify your ass and I’ll just tell her Daddy died in a freak accident.”


“Deal,” Relief washed over him for the first time in months. It wasn’t much but it was a step in the right direction. It would take time before she’d accept him as anything more than just a friend. He had to prove he could be that first. Now he should be able to come around and spend time with her during the pregnancy. The girl finally sat up and turned in his direction. “Maybe I should have corrected my earlier statement. The baby seems to be getting bigger but you look pale. Are you not eating right? Kurama told me he was making sure you were.”


“Oh give me a break! Either go downstairs and get yourself a tray or leave while I eat. I don’t eat in front of someone while they watch.” Kagome saw him nod before getting up and heading out the door. She wasn’t sure which he was going to do but didn’t concern herself. Anger flared knowing she couldn’t starve herself if she wanted to. A hefty kick was delivered to her stretched abdomen in protest. She didn’t care what her mother said, the kid knew what was going on. The brat knew there was food sitting there and she was being slow to eat it. Reaching over, she flicked on the television and pushed the tape back in.


The pillows were propped back against the headboard so she could sit upright. The sound of screaming filled the air as she switched on the lamp. She hated to eat without light. She made a quick trip to the bathroom before settling down. Didn’t look like Yusuke was coming back so she’d lay down and watch the movie until she fell asleep. As she washed her hands she gasped seeing her reflection. Her hair was standing up in the back from having bedhead. She looked a fright, she was lucky he didn’t call her a zombie. A brush was quickly ran through the knotted section before she gave up. There was nothing she could do about how pale she looked.


“Ah, your mother said to make sure you ate everything.” Yusuke placed the fresh tray on the dresser before turning to the bathroom door. His eyes roamed over the large girth already showing. Her mother promised that she’d get even larger in the next couple of weeks. He was suddenly nervous as she gave him a lopsided smile before walking back over to the bed. “You can have the one I just brought up since it’s warmer. Go ahead and sit down, I’ll bring it to you.” He narrowed his eyes when she opened her mouth to protest. “Eat or I’ll go get your mother.”


“Ass,” she muttered as the tray was deposited on her lap. What the hell, this had been prepared for him. There was no way she’d be able to eat it all even if she rented a spare stomach. She’d eat what she could and that was it. At least it was delicious and not something healthy. She’d have thrown herself down the steps if he’d walked up here with stirred vegetables again. She wanted to accuse Kurama of being a blasted rabbit instead of a fox. The room was filled with the sounds of the movie while they ate in silence. Kagome was glad for the excuse of having her mouth full, she had no idea what to say.


Yusuke leaned back in the chair after he ate what was on the tray. It was still hard to believe that night had been real. That had been her moaning under him as he took what he wanted. Why had she let him touch her? She could have just gotten up and ran out the room especially when it became obvious what was about to happen. Had she wanted it to happen like Kurama suggested? His head tilted to the side as she took a sip of the tea. A pink tongue came out to lick up the moisture collected on the pouting bottom lip. He’d always wanted to know what it’d be like to steal a kiss from her. Now he knew what it was like. His mind wanted to do it again, just so he could make sure the memory was correct.


Kagome felt the sweet liquid slide down the wrong tube as she gasped in pain. The cup slipped out of her hand as she began to cough. She wasn’t sure what was worse the burning her throat or her broken rib. A hand softly patted her back making sure she was okay. No, she wasn’t, she’d just made a mess. “Get the tray, please.” It was quickly grabbed and put aside while she swung her legs over the bed. Now that she could breath, it was barely enough time to prepare her for the next blow. “Oh my god.”


She swore as Yusuke asked if she were okay. Hell no, she wasn’t okay at all. It felt like a grown man had just slugged her in the gut. She tried to tell him no, but his voice rang out calling for her mother. Great, now she’d never be left alone. “I’m fine, I’m fine, don’t call her in here or she’ll never leave.” Kagome groaned when she heard her mother coming up the stairs. She shot a look at the man before trying to place a wide smile as the older woman came inside. “I’m okay mom, I just told Yusuke to call for you. Thought you might want to feel this, she’s really going at it.”


“Oh my,” Mrs. Higurashi walked forward and sat on the edge next to her only daughter. She saw her blush as she flipped up the shirt. “It’s just your stomach dear and I’m willing to bet he’s seen a lot more than this. Now hold still while I play with my grandchild.” A hand was placed over the smooth skin as a fierce kick had her gasping in pleasure while Kagome cringed.


She almost squealed in delight when the trick worked. That one kick and the child started to calm down. Either her mother had a calming presence or the child knew what the elder woman wanted and wanted to be a pain already. A sigh of relief washed over her until she looked up to see Yusuke staring at her. A blush crept along her cheeks as his eyes trailed over the bulging stomach. Her mother was right but she still felt stupid with him looking at her. He hadn’t known he was looking at her at the time. If he’d known he wouldn’t have been able to produce the juice necessary to make the child resting in her womb. “She’s stopped I think.”


“Oh poopie, figures. Why don’t you let Yusuke try? He hasn’t felt the baby kick yet.” Mrs. Higurashi moved off of her perch and grabbed the boy’s arm. She could tell he wanted to but was just too scared to ask. They’d been sitting up here peacefully so they had to come to some type of arrangement. She knew her daughter well enough to know that this boy meant something to her. Whatever had really happened between them was their business but she wanted Kagome to be happy. Yusuke was a little crude but as long as he treated her daughter well. “Sit here and just lightly put your hand on it.”


Yusuke knew she wouldn’t allow it otherwise so took the opportunity being offered. She tensed as he sat down next to her on the bed. The older hand grabbed his to lightly place it on the slight swell. It felt strange feeling the movement underneath. He wasn’t sure what he was feeling but the skin underneath his fingers adjusted from within. She grunted as he felt sudden movement underneath the palm. “Is she kicking?”


“No, I’d say she’s using my gut as a punching bag. Mind if I lie down?” Kagome hoped he’d take the hint seeing as her mother had just quietly snuck off. He nodded his consent as she scooted back on the bed making sure to leave him room. He didn’t ask but made himself at home next to her, the hand going right back on her stomach. As long as he didn’t keep her up or the baby. If she was forced to remain awake because of the two, she would take her anger out on at least one of them.


He was elated when she allowed him to lie down next to her. Nothing would happen but it was nice to be this close to her without fighting. As much as he wanted to straighten things out he was willing to wait. His hand was placed back down on the small mound. The movement began again but Kagome closed her eyes while he explored. Every where else seemed to have gotten smaller on her form. His eyes flickered to her breasts, except those. Was the pregnancy harder on her than what Kurama had been telling him? He suddenly wished things had turned out different. Most of it was his own fault and he knew it. “Kagome, do you mind if I ask you a question? I know how it happened and all that but there is something I want to know. Why did you let it happen? Why did you let me touch you?”


She yawned as the soothing caress lulled her. He was asking why she’d allowed him to have sex with her. There was so many reasons why she supposed. Part of her had been attracted him from the start, another had been curiosity. Then again she knew even with those reason she’d have walked away if that had just been it. She’d had thought Miroku was cute at one time and wondered if he was as good as he boasted but wouldn’t have let him touch her. Another yawn escaped as her eyes became heavy. Did he want a blunt answer or something detailed? The hand continued to caress as she spoke, “I don’t know honestly. I guess the only thing I can say is that somewhere between the insults I fell in love. Then it just happened.” She smiled as the hand stopped but he didn’t move. Let him think what he wanted, she didn’t care. Yeah, it didn’t matter. She loved him despite what he said or did. Her luck had her falling for men that would never love her in return. At least this time she’d gotten something out of it to cherish. That thought had her drifting off to sleep as the hand resumed it’s exploration.

Kagome screamed as the next pain started. Why wouldn’t they take her to a hospital where they could dope her up? She wanted to be completely numb for this. It was all Yusuke’s damn fault and he was going to pay. She sent the man in question a deadly glare that had him backing up as far as he could considering she was squeezing one of his hands. This was her punishment for watching all them horror movies. The guy with the claws was in her gut tearing up her shit. Her mother tried to get her to do some type of breathing. “Woman you are lucky I can even breath much less pant out fucking patterns. Fuck that and give me something.”


“It’s too late for that Kagome, focus on breathing. Cursing isn’t going to help matters.” Kurama didn’t envy the former detective. Yukina was ready to deliver the babe and he was there to assist since it was part youkai. They weren’t sure what to expect when it was born. The girl’s whimper of pain made him feel even worse for Yusuke. The man looked ready to pass out as another contraction tore through the priestess. At least the man was here for the birth. They were all thankful they’d managed to work some type of relationship out in the last two months or so. They weren’t officially a couple but were managing to get along.


“Fuck you, you stupid long haired faggot. No one asked you for your opinion. When you have one then you come back and lecture me. What the fuck are you doing in here anyways? Tell you what let Yusuke shove his dick in your ass without any lubrication then you can tell me about pain.” Kagome bit the hand holding onto her own as the next one came. She was fucking dying and this was hell. Nothing could feel this damned painful. “Oh, someone kill me please. DO IT!”


“No one is killing you hun, we are almost there.” Mrs. Higurashi tried to calm her down. She almost started laughing at the stunned faces. Well, being the only other person here having gone through it she could understand. The labor itself was the painful part, the contractions were a killer. Kagome still had a while to go before the babe came. “She doesn’t mean anything by it.”


“Like hell I don’t. As soon as I’m done I’m shoving a bat up his aaaHHHHHHHHHHHHHH,” Kagome slapped at the man next to her as another one came. She didn’t have time call him a bastard before the next one started. Tears streamed down her face as it ripped through her. Why couldn’t the fox have given her something. Because he thought it was funny to see her like this. They all wanted to see her in agony as this tore her female parts out. “Im going to kill you.”


Yusuke blanched at the threat but didn’t take it to heart. It bothered him that she was in so much pain she was getting near hysterical. He wished there was something he could do for her but all he was able to do was sit here and hold her hand while she endured. He wasn’t sure how much longer the screaming went on before Yukina instructed the girl to start pushing with the next contraction. It was horrible to stand there as Kagome did all the work. He ignored the nails digging into his hand as she began to bare down.


“Oh fuck,” Kagome panted as the feeling consumed her entire lower section. The strong urge to push had her doing so. A hand patted her hair as she strained to finish. There was no describing the feeling as Yukina shouted that she could see the head. It felt ten times as intense as when she’d had sex to make it. The contraction went along with the searing feeling of being stretched. She was told to push once more as it began to slide free.


A piercing wail filled the air as Yukina cleaned something out of the mouth. He stayed by Kagome’s side while Kurama did the chore of cleaning up the baby. He’d been horrified when asked if he wanted to cut the cord. Hell no, he wasn’t going to cut anything. He just wanted it to be over with so Kagome could stop screaming. Kurama brought the baby over wrapped in a white blanket. He looked down to see Kagome nodding. It felt awkward but he managed to get a good hold on the small bundle.


Kagome felt the tears fall as she watched him hold the tiny girl. It wasn’t exactly what she’d dreamed of but close enough. He was there with her for the birth and was the first to hold their daughter. Kurama didn’t count since he was playing nurse. She smiled as he looked down at her, the awe clearly seen in his eyes. Even if he didn’t love her, he’d just fallen in love with their child. “What are you going to name her?”


Next Chapter: Plans for the extraction are made.... Please read and review..