Just A Taste... by LadyDaniTar

Just A Taste...

They had lied to her.

Kagome boarded a train in Tokyo and traveled for three hours to Kyoto to meet her friends. They informed her about a new festival taking place that weekend and asked her to join them. Since she had work, she decided to go on her own. If she had known what was in store for her, she would have stayed home. Now she stood alone at the entrance to the festival, watching as her friends paired up and walked under a decorative archway that read, ‘Lovers Moon Festival.’  

Her eyes glared up at the offensive sign. She was hesitant to step inside, wondering if she should just turn back and head to the train station. The white and pink Sakura yukata she was wearing was beginning to feel too tight, like it was constricting around her ribcage trying to suffocate her. Suddenly, she heard someone calling her name and looked up to find Sango waving her hand, standing beyond the archway. Miroku stood next to her with an arm wrapped around her waist, holding a red rose in his other hand. Kagome watched as he lifted the rose to Sango's face, and her best friend blushed, smiling shyly as she accepted the flower. The sight made Kagome want to barf.

Further ahead Kagome noticed that Kikyo and Inuyasha had already started browsing through the vendor stalls and were buying souvenirs.  Kagome's cousin hid a smile behind an ornamental fan as Inuyasha whispered something in her ear. The other couple met up with them and they all chatted for a moment before disappearing from Kagome’s sight. This was ridiculous.

Deciding it was time to slip away while her friends were distracted, Kagome abruptly turned, only to collide face first into a sturdy chest.

“Ow!” she exclaimed, rubbing her bruised nose, stopping when firm hands gripped her shoulders.

“Are you alright, Priestess?” came the familiar deep voice of Sesshoumaru.

Kagome's blue eyes slowly rose and met the piercing golden gaze of Sesshoumaru. She couldn't help but feel embarrassed for clumsily stumbling in front of such a perfect being. He looked absolutely stunning in his charcoal gray three-piece suit that probably cost more than Kagome's monthly rent. His hair was artfully styled, half of it done up into a topknot while letting the rest cascade down his back in a silky wave. Not a single silver strand was out of place.

Despite their long-standing acquaintance, Kagome could never shake the feeling of awkwardness between them. Though brought together by their parents' close friendship, their conflicting personalities frequently led to arguments or avoided encounters - he, the studious loner, and she, the outgoing social butterfly.

Composing herself the best she could, Kagome brush his hands away and huffed out, “I don’t live on my family’s shrine anymore Sesshoumaru, you don’t have to keep calling me Priestess.” Eyeing the towering demon once more she asked, “Why are you wearing a suit to a festival? You look like you just stepped out of a board meeting.”

Narrow eyes glared down at the woman as he reached up and began to loosen his crimson color tie. “That is because I did just leave a board meeting. Rin was impatient so I had no time to change before coming to this…” The demon looked past Kagome and saw the gaudy flower covered archway, “… Lovers Moon Festival.”

“Your sister is here? Where is she? I want to say hello.” Kagome eagerly looked behind Sesshoumaru trying to spot the young human girl Toga and Izayoi had adopted. Once again, she felt his large hands grab onto her shoulders and turn her body to the left where Rin and Kohaku stood. The teens were awkwardly standing in front of each other, both blushing and avoiding making eye contact. It was obvious that this was their first date together. 

Kagome looked back at Sesshoumaru with a goofy grin on her face. “So, you got stuck playing chaperon, huh?”

The demon did not appreciate being made fun of, so he leaned down and nipped the top of Kagome’s ear with his fangs. “She is too young to be left alone with a suitor.” 

“Oh my God! This isn’t the Feudal times Sesshoumaru!” Shrugging his hands off once more she turned and glared up at the demon with her hands on her hips. “If you want to treat her like it’s still the dark ages why not just marry her off? She is sixteen, the perfect age to start popping out babies!”

“Calm down, Priestess, you are being hysterical!” Sesshoumaru growled and bared his fangs. 

Unfortunately, this command only fueled Kagome’s rage. Before the young woman had a chance to rip Sesshoumaru a new one, their argument had caught Rin and Kohaku’s attention, and the teens made their way over. Rin was quick to interject before an all-out brawl ensued. “Kagome! Are you here to go on a date with Sesshoumaru?” 

Caught off guard by the girl’s question Kagome flushed and backed away from the tall, beautiful, annoying male. After coughing a few times she said, “No! My friends invited me, they just neglected to tell me any key details about this event.’

As the pair of adults and teens stood in silence amidst their awkward exchange, a cheerful voice interrupted the quiet. A flower vendor approached wheeling over a cart adorned with a colorful array of blooms, his smile wide as he eyed the two couples.

"Would the young gentleman like to give the pretty lady a flower?" The vendor asked as he looked towards Kohaku, who raised an eyebrow at the unexpected offer.

Kohaku, still slightly flustered from Rin's presence and the newness of their budding relationship, blushed but nodded eagerly. With a shy smile, he selected a delicate cherry blossom and handed it to Rin, who accepted it with a radiant grin.

The vendor then turned his attention to Sesshoumaru, his mischievous gaze shifting to Kagome beside him. "And how about you, sir? Would you like to give a flower to your companion?"

Sesshoumaru, stunned by the man’s suggestion, hesitated for a moment. He glanced at Kagome, who met his gaze with a challenging smirk dancing on her lips. With a faint frown, he reached out and selected a single white lily, his movements devoid of any sense of romance or enthusiasm.

Handing the flower to Kagome with a subtle air of indifference, she tried to hold back a chuckle at his awkwardness, but her laughter bubbled over despite her efforts to maintain composure.

“Thank you," she said, accepting the flower with a playful twinkle in her eye. "You're quite the gentleman, Sesshoumaru. Even if you did just call me hysterical."

Sesshoumaru merely nodded in response, watching her tuck the lily behind her ear. He noticed that Rin and Kohaku had started to make their way into the festival grounds and looked back at Kagome, his eyes silently asking her not to leave him alone with the teenagers. She returned his look with a questioning tilt of her head before shrugging and following after the young couple with Sesshoumaru close behind. 

Unbeknownst to them, their exchange hadn't gone unnoticed. From a discreet distance, Kagome's friends observed the interaction with keen interest. Sango, Miroku, Kikyo, and Inuyasha had been the architects of this elaborate scheme, hoping to nudge their two friends together and perhaps kindle a romantic spark.

However, as they watched the painful exchange between Kagome and Sesshoumaru, their initial excitement began to wane. It was evident that Sesshoumaru's demeanor wasn't exactly conducive to romantic gestures, and Kagome's sharp wit seemed to bounce off him without much effect.

Sango bit her lip, sharing a worried glance with the others. "I thought he'd be smoother than this," she murmured, disappointment evident in her voice.

Miroku scratched his head, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Well, perhaps he's just a bit nervous. It's not everyday that Sesshoumaru finds himself in a situation like this, he rarely ever leaves his office."

Kikyo sighed softly, her gaze fixed on her cousin and Sesshoumaru as they continued to navigate the festival grounds. "I just hope this doesn't backfire on us. Kagome might end up angry at us if she finds out we're meddling in her love life and trying to set her up with Sesshoumaru no less."

Inuyasha nodded in agreement, his arms crossed over his chest. "Yeah, we should've known better than to try and play matchmaker with those two. They're like oil and water sometimes." While scratching behind one of his ears added, “Really thought they would be perfect for each other though...”

Everyone nodded in agreement. They would just have to wait and see what happens and hope for the best.

As the day progressed, Kagome was surprised that she was actually having a good time. The awkwardness between her and the uptight dog demon began to fade as excitement took over as she dragged him over to where a cluster of game booths stood. She had spotted a comically large white dog plush as they approached and decided that she MUST have it.

Reaching into the small coin pouch around her wrist, Kagome pulled out enough to play a round at the Shateki booth, determined to win the white monstrosity looking down at her. With the pellet gun in hand, she closed one eye in concentration while sticking her tongue out and aiming for the tag keeping the toy in place.  She gently pulled back the trigger and watched as the pellet veered off to the right, missing its target entirely. 

“Oh, come on!” Kagome cried while stomping her foot in frustration. Digging into her coin purse once more she handed over the fee to play, widened her stance and aimed only to miss again. 

Sesshoumaru stood back with his arms crossed over his chest watching the woman continue to waste her money on what was obviously a rigged game. After Kagome’s fourth failed attempt he couldn’t take it anymore and intervened. 

As Kagome peeked into her now much lighter money pouch she felt something being placed around her shoulders. Seeing a dark suit jacket covering her arms she looked up to witness Sesshoumaru loosening his tie further and unfastening a few buttons of his shirt and rolling up his sleeves. His elegant movements caught the attention of nearby females, who couldn't help but stare in awe at the tall handsome demon. 

Taking the toy gun from Kagome, Sesshoumaru steadied his stance and aimed with precision, his movements fluid and practiced. With a firm hand he fired, the pellet striking the tag with pinpoint accuracy, causing it to snap and release the plush.

There was a round of applause from onlookers as the vendor retrieved the prize and handed it over to Sesshoumaru. He accepted and stared into the large vacant eyes of the stuffed animal for a moment before turning and handing it over to Kagome. The crowd that had been clapping was now erupting in a chorus of awes at the seemingly romantic gesture. 

Flabbergasted by his unexpected chivalry, Kagome felt her cheeks flush with warmth as she shyly accepted the plush, hugging it close to her chest. "Thank you, Sesshoumaru," she whispered, unable to hide her surprise. Maybe he wasn’t so bad after all.

Sesshoumaru's golden eyes gleamed with a hint of satisfaction as Kagome's scent shifted, reminiscent of a meadow of wildflowers and rain, a pleasant change from her usual sour and durian fragrance while in his presence. Encouraged by her response, he gently urged her forward, guiding her with a hand on her back as they moved on to the next booth.

They watched as Kohaku played a round of Wanage, tossing the metal rings until one looped around its intended target. Kagome and Rin clapped and cheered as Sesshoumaru nodded his approval. Kohaku claimed his prize, a soft yellow cat plush with two tails and striking red eyes, and turned around to face Rin. With a shy yet proud smile, he presented the plush toy to her while averting his gaze, his cheeks flushed with a hint of embarrassment.

All sense of decorum left the girl as she threw herself at the boy, embracing him and the cat plush in a tight hug. “Thank you, Kohaku! I love it!” When she feels the teen stiffen under her hold she only tightens it further before finally giving him a reprieve. “Let’s go get something to eat! The takoyaki smells delicious!” Clutching the toy in one hand she used the other to grab onto Kohaku’s and pulled him behind her in search of the food stalls. 

A frown marred Sesshoumaru’s face at having witnessed his little sister’s open display of affection for the boy. He felt a small hand tug on his arm and looked downto see Kagome staring up at him with a pleading expression. 

"Please don't spoil this for Rin. Kohaku is the ideal first boyfriend who will respect and treasure her," the demon winced as she mentioned the word 'boyfriend'. Kagome's smile widened and she gently reached for his clawed hand, "Let's just keep an eye on them from a distance until the firework show tonight."

Sesshoumaru's expression soured at Kagome's suggestion. However, her unwavering grip told him that she was not going to take no for an answer. He stared into her big blue eyes, and a defeated sigh escaped his lips as he reluctantly nodded his head in agreement. Kagome's face lit up with a brilliant smile, and she took the lead, pulling him through the bustling crowd in the direction the teenagers had gone.

As they strolled along, Sesshoumaru found himself reflecting on his initial hesitation in inviting Kagome to join him, Rin, and Kohaku into the festival. Given their history and dynamic, he had been uncertain about how well they would get along. Yet, as he watched Kagome walk in front of him. her petite frame enveloped in the fabric of his suit jacket, accentuating her small yet delicate features, a sense of satisfaction washed over him.

Her tender grasp on the prize he had won for her, treating it as though it were the most precious thing in the world, filled him with an unexpected sense of pride. And with each glance back at him, her radiant smile ignited a strange, warm feeling in his chest.

Lost in thought, Sesshoumaru hadn't noticed Kagome had dropped his hand and stepped up to one of the food stalls until she was waving a yakitori skewer in his face. The enticing aroma of grilled chicken wafted into his nose, causing his mouth to water involuntarily.

"Try one, they're delicious!" Kagome urged, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she pushed the meat on a stick closer to him. “Just a taste.” With a small smile, he obliged, opening his mouth to take a bite.

As the savory flavor danced on his taste buds, Sesshoumaru couldn't help but let out a satisfied hum. Suddenly, Kagome reached up and wiped a droplet of sauce that had dripped onto his chin, her touch sending a tingling sensation through him. His heart skipped a beat as she brought her thumb to her lips and licked it clean, her actions stirring something unfamiliar within him.

Feeling a blush creeping up his cheeks, Sesshoumaru couldn't tear his gaze away from Kagome as she took a bite from the same skewer he had just eaten from. Such intimate behavior was only done between mother and pups or mates.

Kagome tossed the now empty skewer into a nearby trash bin and glanced around the bustling festival grounds, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. To her surprise, she found herself genuinely enjoying the lively atmosphere and Sesshoumaru’s company. It had been an unexpectedly pleasant experience, tagging along with them for the day. Despite her initial apprehension, Kagome couldn't deny the warmth that had settled in her chest as she watched Rin and Kohaku as they wandered through the colorful stalls and sampled delicious treats together.

Shefound herself looking for something else for her and Sesshoumaru to do next while the teens got some alone time. Her eyes scanned the bustling crowds, searching for inspiration as she pondered their options. Then, her sparkling blue eyes landed on an attraction not far off in the distance. Looking back at Sesshoumaru with a mischievous smirk, she grabbed his hand once more and pulled him along heading towards the edge of the festival grounds.

As they approached the towering, neon-lit Ferris wheel, Sesshoumaru's stomach dropped. He couldn't shake the feeling of dread at the sight of it. There was no way she wanted them to ride that death trap. His palms began to sweat as Kagome dragged him into line beside her, eagerly awaiting their turn to board the towering ride that had him envisioning scenes from Final Destination.

Time seemed to stop when it was their turn to board a tiny metal cage. The attendant stood holding open the door, waiting for a stone still Sesshoumaru to get on the ride.

“Sesshoumaru?” The sound of Kagome’s voice calling out to him caused something in his brain to switch and soon he was climbing in and seated himself across from her. When the ride began to move his white knuckled grip only tightened on the railing, crushing the metal bar in his fist.

As they ascended higher on the Ferris wheel, Kagome couldn't help but marvel at the magical scene below, the festival was bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. She chattered away excitedly pointing out landmarks, completely unaware of Sesshoumaru's growing discomfort.

Meanwhile, Sesshoumaru closed his eyes, attempting to control his racing heartbeat as the Ferris wheel continued to climb higher. Kagome's incessant babbling only added to his unease, and finally, unable to bear it any longer, he snapped in a harsh tone, "Priestess, do you ever stop talking?"

Shocked by his sudden change in demeanor, Kagome shot him a surprised glance before retorting, "Well, at least I have something to say! Unlike you, Mr. Cool Silent Type."

Before Sesshoumaru could respond, the Ferris wheel jerked to a sudden stop, throwing them both off balance. With a collective gasp, they tumbled from their seats, Sesshoumaru landing squarely on top of Kagome as they crashed to the floor.

As they lay tangled together in the cramped Ferris wheel compartment, a stunned silence enveloped them, the only sound their combined breaths. Sesshoumaru's hands were positioned on either side of Kagome's head, while she lay beneath his imposing frame.

Unable to tear his gaze away, Sesshoumaru found himself captivated by the sight of Kagome beneath him, midnight blue eyes widened in shock and her cheeks flushed with a delicate pink hue. His eyes then locked onto her parted lips with an intensity she had never witnessed from him before.

Similarly, Kagome was transfixed by the mesmerizing depth of Sesshoumaru's honey gold eyes, which seemed to hold an emotion she had never seen from him before. It was a vulnerability, a rawness that contradicted his usual stoic demeanor, leaving her heart racing in her chest.

When Sesshoumaru began to lower his head, drawn in by Kagome’s sweet scent and full lips, she closed her eyes in anticipation of what was about to happen. But before their lips could meet, the ride suddenly lurched back into motion, jolting them out of the spell they had been under.

Realizing the compromising position they were in, Sesshoumaru and Kagome quickly scrambled to disentangle themselves from each other and return to their respective seats. Kagome handed Sesshoumaru his suit jacket, her cheeks still tinged with a faint blush as she hugged the large white dog plush tightly to her chest.

Sesshoumaru hastily put his jacket back on, crossing his arms as he looked out the window, a bright flush evident on his usually impassive face. The tension between them palpable, unspoken words hung in the air, as they both sought to regain their composure amidst the bustling energy of the festival below.

Once the Ferris wheel reached the bottom and the attendant swung open their door, Sesshoumaru and Kagome wasted no time in rushing out, eager to escape the ride. Neither dared to meet the other's gaze as they stepped back onto solid ground.

As they made their way back into the bustling festival grounds, darkness had descended, casting everything in a soft, ethereal glow. The crowd seemed to swell with excitement, everyone moving in the direction of a nearby hillside where they could settle in to watch the impending fireworks show.

Navigating through the throng of people, Kagome found herself jostled from all sides, the sea of bodies threatening to swallow her whole. Suddenly, a collision sent her tumbling to the ground, the impact knocking the wind from her lungs. Frantically, picked up her fluffy plush and tried to rise, only to be pushed back down by the relentless press of the crowd.

Panic began to bubble up within her, her heart racing as she struggled to regain her footing amidst the chaos. Just when it seemed she might succumb to the never-ending tide, strong arms wrapped around her, lifting her effortlessly from the ground.

With a startled cry, Kagome turned her head to see Sesshoumaru, his expression unreadable as he held her securely in his arms. Without a word he used his demon agility to jump out of the flood of people and position them between two empty vendor stalls, the noise of the festival fading into the background.

Sesshoumaru lowered Kagome gently to her feet, her chest heaving as she pressed a hand to her racing heart, her face buried in his chest as she struggled to catch her breath.

Finally calming down, Kagome pulled away from Sesshoumaru's embrace, using her free hand to brush away the dust and dirt that had collected on the bottom of her kimono. Satisfied that she was no longer a walking dust cloud, she risked a glance up at Sesshoumaru, only to find him staring down at her with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine.

"Thank you," she breathed, her voice soft but filled with genuine gratitude. "For rescuing me."

Sesshoumaru's gaze softened slightly at her words, but the wild look in his eyes remained. "Are you alright?" Kagome asked tentatively while clutching her dog, concern evident in her voice.

His response was terse, his voice tinged with an edge of frustration as he admitted, "I am far from alright." He paused, his jaw clenched, before continuing, "Losing sight of you amidst the chaos... The sight of you trapped on the ground, ignored by the passing crowd..." He trailed off, the memory still fresh in his mind, the scent of her fear filling him with a seething rage that he struggled to contain.

Kagome's eyes widened in surprise; she had never witnessed this side of Sesshoumaru before. He, who had always embodied an air of unshakeable composure, now appeared anything but. "I'm alright now, thanks to you," she murmured softly, her voice filled with sincerity as she reached out to gently squeeze his hand, offering a comforting reassurance.

At the touch of her hand, Sesshoumaru felt a sense of calm wash over him, the tension beginning to ease from his shoulders. After a moment of silence, he gave her hand a firm squeeze back, then he reached out with his free hand to delicately tuck a few stray strands of hair behind her ear, where the small lily still nestled.

"We need to find Rin and Kohaku," he said finally, his voice steady with determination. "Come, let us go." And with that, he led Kagome away from the empty vendor stalls and along the outskirts of the fairgrounds, keeping their hands intertwined.

Using his keen sense of smell, Sesshoumaru skillfully tracked down Rin, who was among the onlookers seated on a small blanket next to Kohaku. Not far behind them, he spotted his brother and his girlfriend, along with their friends, all settled down to watch the fireworks display. Kagome noticed this too and was about to make her way over to her friends when something caught her attention out of the corner of her eye. As she attempted to walk away, the hand holding hers tightened, prompting her to turn back and meet Sesshoumaru's conflicted golden gaze.

Despite his anxious expression, Kagome thrust her large plush dog into his arms, teasingly saying, "Now I have to come back because you've got Fluffy."

With a soft laugh, she darted away before he could argue, leaving Sesshoumaru to stare down at the slightly dirty white dog in his arms with a mixture of resignation and relief. Soon, he would have to endure the cacophony of the fireworks, and then he and Rin could return home, allowing him to forget this day ever happened, along with the myriad of new emotions it had brought with it.

Lost in his thoughts and still engaged in a silent staring contest with the stuffed dog, Sesshoumaru hadn't noticed Kagome's return until she tugged on his clawed hand, placing something in his palm. "Here," she said, her voice soft and uplifting, "These should help you enjoy the fireworks without all the noise."

Looking down, he found a pair of earplugs nestled in his hand, a thoughtful gesture from Kagome that had the tips of his ears turning red. Feeling a rare sense of warmth wash over him, Sesshoumaru managed a small smile. "Thank you, Kagome," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, before she retrieved Fluffy from his arms.

Inuyasha's nose picked up the familiar scent of Sesshoumaru and Kagome as they entered the clearing atop the hillside, causing him to steal a quick glance back. He noticed Kagome's attempt to leave, only to be gently pulled back by Sesshoumaru's firm grip on her hand. Stunned by what he was witnessing, Inuyasha nudged Miroku beside him, directing his attention with a subtle jerk of his head.

Following Inuyasha's gaze, Miroku saw Kagome handing a stuffed animal to Sesshoumaru before offering him a smile and walking away. Intrigued, Miroku pulled on Sango's kimono sleeve, prompting her to join in the observation. Soon, even Kikyo noticed the group's distraction and turned to see what had caught their attention.

They watched in silence as Kagome returned to Sesshoumaru, taking his hand, and placing something in it. Inuyasha leaned closer to Miroku, his voice barely above a whisper. "Looks like those two are getting cozy, huh?"

Miroku nodded, his eyes still fixed on the couple. "Indeed. Quite unexpected."

Sango, fully engaged in the conversation now, chimed in. "Kagome's always been affectionate with people she is comfortable around. Something must have happened between them."

Kikyo added her thoughts. "Perhaps there's more to their relationship than meets the eye. People change."

Inuyasha grunted in agreement, his eyes still on the unfolding scene. "Guess we'll just have to wait and see after the show."

With a collective nod, the group fell silent, allowing Sesshoumaru and Kagome their moment amidst the festivities. As the fireworks lit up the sky, they turned their attention to the dazzling display.

Kagome stood beside Sesshoumaru, hugging her plush tightly against her chest as she gazed up at the exploding fireworks. Sesshoumaru, having accepted the earplugs Kagome provided, observed as more bursts of light illuminated the night sky. Taking a brief moment to survey their surroundings, he couldn't help but notice the various couples and groups seated close together, enjoying the spectacle. Some had brought blankets and towels to sit on, ensuring they wouldn't get grass stains on their clothing. Sesshoumaru's frown deepened as he glanced over at Kagome, who kept shifting her weight and bouncing on her feet while maintaining a bright smile as she marveled at the colorful display.

Concerned that Kagome might be uncomfortable or in pain, Sesshoumaru made a determined decision. With a nod to himself, he removed his suit jacket and carefully laid it out in front of her, creating a makeshift blanket for her to sit on. 

Sensing movement beside her, Kagome turned to watch him with curiosity shining in her blue eyes. Once satisfied with his arrangement, Sesshoumaru extended his hand towards Kagome, silently offering a seat. She hesitated for a moment before tentatively accepting his hand, allowing him to help her settle onto the ground.

Once Kagome was settled, Sesshoumaru joined her, reclining on one arm with the other draped over a bent knee.

Mesmerized, Kagome couldn't tear her gaze away from him. The fireworks cast a surreal glow on his silver hair, causing it to shimmer in the light, while his golden eyes seemed to hold an otherworldly radiance. In that moment, he seemed almost ethereal, too beautiful and captivating to be sitting beside her. When he caught her gaze, Kagome felt her cheeks flush, and she quickly averted her eyes back to the sky, hoping to hide her embarrassment.

As Kagome's eyes remained transfixed on the colorful night sky, Sesshoumaru found himself studying her with a newfound perspective. Beyond her physical beauty, it was her spirited nature, her unyielding zest for life that truly captivated him. He admired her innate ability to embrace new experiences, diving into each adventure headfirst without a trace of hesitation.

When she leaned back to better admire the spectacle above, Sesshoumaru found his gaze tracing the graceful curve of her neck, accentuated by the gentle arch as she tilted her head skyward. The contrast of her porcelain skin against the darkened backdrop of the night was nothing short of striking.

Even the subtle intricacies of her attire did not escape his notice. From the meticulously crafted design of her kimono to the way the fabric gracefully draped over her slender frame, every detail seemed to enhance her feminine allure.

It was at that moment Sesshoumaru found himself momentarily transfixed, silently acknowledging the breathtaking presence of the woman beside him. It was a realization that took him by surprise, stirring that same strange feeling he felt when she wore his jacket and smiling while pulling him along to the food stalls.

As the last burst of fireworks faded into the night, the crowd erupted into applause and cheers. Some couples began to depart, while others remained seated, basking in the afterglow of the festivities, their faces illuminated by the twinkling lights of Kyoto below.

Spotting Rin and Kohaku approaching, Sesshoumaru rose gracefully, extending a hand to assist Kagome to her feet. She offered him a grateful smile before turning her attention to the teens.

"Rin! Kohaku! Did you two have a good time?" Kagome's voice was filled with excitement as she greeted them, her eyes shining with anticipation.

Rin's face lit up as she launched into a lively recounting of their evening adventures. Her words spilled out in a rush and her giddiness contagious.

Beside her, Kohaku stood quietly, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush as he averted his gaze. Rin, sensing his discomfort, reached out and gently took his hand in hers, a simple gesture that spoke volumes.

Sesshoumaru observed the exchange with a sense of dread. Though reluctant, he couldn't deny that Kohaku would make a suitable first boyfriend for Rin, even if he wasn't quite ready for his little sister to be dating yet.

The small group made their way back to the festival entrance, the vibrant lights and lively music fading behind them. Inuyasha and their friends soon caught up with them, blending into the stream of departing festival goers.

"Is everyone ready to head home?" Inuyasha asked as he exchanged knowing looks with the others.

Kagome paused a moment before handing her plush dog to Sesshoumaru and darting off towards the facilities. "Just need a quick pit stop before we head out," she called back over her shoulder.

Once he was sure Kagome was out of earshot, Inuyasha then announced his plan. "Alright, gang, I'm taking Rin and the rest of us home in Sesshoumaru's ride!" He already had his phone out texting the driver their location for pick up.

While walking away with the others, Sango looked back at a stunned Sesshoumaru and called out, "That means you're on escort duty, Sesshoumaru! Make sure Kags gets home safe!”

Sesshoumaru's stoic demeanor faltered with disbelief. As he watched Inuyasha and Rin disappear from sight, Kagome returned.

She looked around only to see a now empty street and furrowed her brow in confusion. "Where's everyone gone?" she asked, looking to Sesshoumaru for an explanation.

Sesshoumaru remained rooted to the spot, processing the turn of events. After a brief moment of contemplation, he handed Fluffy back to Kagome and said, “I'll be walking you to the train station," The prospect of a three-hour train journey held no appeal for him, and he decided to book himself a room in Kyoto for the night once the girl was safely on her way home.

Still confused by the sudden change in plans, Kagome hadn’t noticed Sesshoumaru already making his way down the road and hurried to catch up with him. Unbeknownst to Sesshoumaru, the lingering scent of sulfur from the fireworks show had masked the telltale signs of an impending rainstorm. As dark clouds loomed overhead, and a crack of thunder echoed around them rain began to pour down. Sesshoumaru swiftly shrugged off his jacket and handed it to Kagome before taking her hand and leading them to the nearest sheltered spot he could find.

The rain beat down mercilessly as Sesshoumaru pulled Kagome beneath the shelter of a narrow awning, he loomed over her with his imposing body creating a warm barrier against the storm. His frustration simmered beneath the surface when he looked down and realized Kagome had used his jacket to protect her plush toy rather than herself.

He pressed her further against the wall with his body as he reached for his phone, there was no way Sesshoumaru was going to allow her to ride home alone on the train while dripping wet and shivering. With one arm firmly braced by her head, he dialed various hotels, his deep voice resonating in the confined space. Kagome peered up at him through wet bangs while shifting about and trying to make sure Fluffy had remained dry during the sudden downpour.

"Priestess," he snapped, his voice dripping with command, "I need to check the availability of rooms. Please, do not attempt to distract me."

Kagome, feeling a surge of irritation at being told what to do, reached out and tugged on his tie. The sudden movement startled him, causing his head to dip lower, his warm breath grazing against her rain-soaked neck, sending a shiver down her spine. Despite the chill, her skin began to flush, and a heat was stirring within her lower belly.

"Don't call me 'Priestess'," she retorted, trying not to reveal what his hot breath was doing to her. The low rumble of his growls sent another shiver through her, fueling the fiery heat within. "My name is Kagome."

Determined sapphire clashed with red tinged gold. The flare of Sesshoumaru’s nostrils sent a bolt of panic through Kagome, she squeezed her thighs tightly hoping he wouldn’t scent her unexpected arousal. Fortunately, a voice on the other end of his phone distracted him and she let out a sigh of relief when he broke eye contact with her.

A snarl formed on his lips as yet another concierge informed him that there were no vacancies. Then this woman had the audacity to suggest alternative lodging for the night, one that he never wished to set foot in. When Sesshoumaru felt Kagome begin to shiver beneath him, he clenched his fangs and hung up on the woman.

After a quick Google search, Sesshoumaru was able to find the nearest available accommodation in the city. Not wanting to delay any longer, he made a snap decision. Without a word, he scooped Kagome up bridal style, pulling his suit jacket over her and Fluffy to shield them both from the rain as he dashed down the street in the direction of his destination. The rain continued to pour, its relentless assault soaking everything in its path.

It didn't take more than a few minutes for Sesshoumaru to find the establishment. The gaudy pink neon sign flickers above the door, casting an eerie glow on the rain-soaked pavement as he opens the blacked-out door. Unable to see the person behind the partially covered window of the front desk, Sesshoumaru approached and requested two rooms.

The attendant crouched down and peered at Sesshoumaru with blood-red eyes. "No singles," he replied curtly. "It's two to a room."

With a frustrated growl, Sesshoumaru begrudgingly agreed, his patience wearing thin. He demanded their largest room and the red eyed demon behind the counter slipped him a card with a room number and code. With determined strides, he ascended the stairs until room 410 came into view.

Kagome finally pulled Sesshoumaru's jacket off of her when she heard him close the door and looked around the dimly lit room. She did not expect what she saw. The room was spacious, but it had a very obvious theme to it. A comically large bed dominated the center, draped in red satin sheets. To the left, the entire wall was covered in mirrors, reflecting the room's decor, and amplifying its opulence.

Something caught Kagome's eye, and she turned to the wall facing the bed. Her eyes widened, and she quickly covered her mouth in shock when she noticed an adult film playing on mute. It dawned on her with a mortified realization: Sesshoumaru had brought her to a love hotel.

"Are you mad?!" Kagome exclaimed, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson as she wiggled in his arms, desperate to be set down.

Sesshoumaru, holding her more tightly, gave an exasperated sigh. "This was the only place with rooms available," he explained, trying to keep his tone calm and hide his frustration. "Would you rather be out in the rain?"

Kagome's embarrassment was palpable as she finally squirmed out of his grasp and managed to plant her feet on the plush red carpet. "You couldn't have found somewhere else?" she demanded, her voice a coming out shriller than she wanted.

Sesshoumaru sighed again, his patience thinning. "There were no other options, Priestess. This was the closest and quickest solution to get you out of the storm." He walked over to the television and swiftly turned it off, much to Kagome’s relief.

Crossing her arms and glancing around the room again, Kagome’s gaze lingering on the mirrored wall. "Well, it's...certainly different," she muttered, her earlier mortification slowly giving way to curiosity.

Sesshoumaru approached her, his expression softening slightly. "You need to rest and get warm. The rain won't let up for a while," he said, his voice gentler now. "We'll leave first thing in the morning."

Kagome looked up at him, her annoyance ebbing away as she saw the concern in his eyes. "Alright," she conceded, taking a deep breath. "But we tell no one that we stayed in a place like this."

Sesshoumaru nodded, a rare hint of amusement flickering in his eyes. "Agreed," he replied. Both trying to make the best of an unexpected and awkward situation. He looked at Kagome, noting the rain-soaked kimono clinging to her shivering form. "Go wash up first," he instructed before taking Fluffy from her arms and placing him on the bed.

Kagome nodded and walked over to the first door she saw. Squinting her eyes closed, she slowly opened it hoping it led to the bathroom and not some weird sex dungeon. Once inside she cracked one blue eye open and let out the breath she was holding when she saw a giant tub that could fit at least four people. Next to it stood an equally large shower with a waterfall shower head above it. It was surprisingly nice for a love hotel.

"This is actually pretty luxurious," she muttered to herself, eyeing the shelf filled with every kind of soap, shampoo, and body wash imaginable. She almost felt like she was in a five-star hotel until she found waterproof lubricant mixed in with the assortment of bathing products. Giggling at the bizarre situation, she quickly went about turning on the water, excitement building for a nice hot bath.

The bath filled quickly, steam rising invitingly. Kagome went to untie her obi, but the knot in the back refused to budge. After struggling for a few minutes, she let out a frustrated groan. "Sesshoumaru, could you come in and help me?" she called out, hoping he was still within earshot.

She heard the door open and close behind her but kept her back turned, too embarrassed to face him. "Could you help me undo the obi?" she asked, her voice tinged with frustration. She heard him make a soft 'hm' sound before she felt his strong hands deftly pulling the knot free.

As the obi finally loosened, Kagome let out a happy sigh, relishing the ability to take a full breath again. "Thank you," she half moaned and began turning around to tell him he could leave, but her words caught in her throat when she found herself staring at Sesshoumaru's bare chest.

Her eyes widened as she took in the sight of his sculpted muscles as water still clung to his skin from the rain. She watched a particular droplet of water travel between the contours of his sternum, over the ripples of his washboard abs, past his belly button, and then disappear into the trail of silver hairs just about his belt. "Sesshoumaru... you're... um, not wearing a shirt," she stammered, her cheeks flushing.

Sesshoumaru's amber gaze was cool and unbothered. "I am aware,” he replied simply, as if his half-naked state was the most natural thing in the world.

Kagome's heart raced, the proximity and intimacy of the moment catching her off guard. She quickly turned back to the bath, gripping the folds of her kimono tightly. "Well, thank you for helping me," she said, her voice sounding a bit too high.

"You're welcome," he replied, his voice low and smooth. Sesshoumaru, slightly amused by her reaction, couldn't help the smirk that tugged on his lips. Leaning down until his mouth was beside her ear, he reached up and removed the lily that was still tucked behind it. "Enjoy your bath, Priestess. I'll be right outside if you need anything else," he said in a gravelly voice.

When his clawed hand entered her line of vision, Kagome quickly snatched the flower from it. The unexpected closeness made her shiver, and she could feel his warm breath against her neck, sending a jolt of electricity down her spine. As he left the room, she let out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding.

Kagome stood there for a moment, the image of Sesshoumaru’s bare chest seared into her mind. Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, she began to strip out of her wet clothes. The sensation of the damp fabric peeling away from her skin was both a relief and a reminder of how cold she had been. She glanced at the luxurious bath, steam curling up invitingly, and eagerly climbed in.

The hot water enveloped her, soothing her chilled bones and easing her tension. She sighed deeply, sinking deeper into the water, and letting her mind wander. She lifted up the hand still holding on to the lily and twirled the stem between her fingers.

When Kagome emerged from the bathroom, her raven hair now down and dressed in a plush robe, she found Sesshoumaru sitting on the large bed. He, too, was already dressed in a robe and was flipping through a menu. The sight of him looking so relaxed and domestic was almost surreal.

Sesshoumaru glanced up as she approached, his eyes briefly scanning her before settling back on the menu. "Are you hungry?" he asked, his voice revealing nothing. "What would you like to eat?"

Kagome thought for a moment, glancing around the room. Her eyes landed on a binder on a nearby table. Assuming it was another menu, she picked it up and began to look through it. However, as its contents registered in her mind, she let out a startled scream and dropped it.

Sesshoumaru immediately stood up, looking for what had alarmed her. Not finding anything amiss he slowly walked over and picked up the binder from the floor and glanced at its pages. Instead of a food menu, it was filled with photographs of various costumes and accessories that could be ordered to the room.

A low chuckle escaped his lips as he looked back at Kagome, whose face had turned a brilliant shade of red. His amusement grew, and he couldn’t help but laugh even harder.

Kagome's embarrassment deepened, and she crossed her arms, trying to compose herself. "It's not funny, Sesshoumaru!"

His laughter subsided to a soft, lingering chuckle. "I suppose it's not," he conceded, though his golden eyes sparkled with mirth. "But your reaction was... priceless."

"Why would they even have something like that here?" Kagome muttered, more to herself than to him.

Sesshoumaru placed the binder back on the table and gave her a pointed look. "It is a love hotel, Kagome. Such places cater to a variety of tastes and preferences."

She sighed, her initial shock fading. "I guess I should have expected something like this," she admitted, giving the binder a wary glance. "Still, they should label the front of it or something…"

A smirk tugged at the corner of Sesshoumaru’s lips as he stepped closer to Kagome, bending down until his face was inches from hers. “It must be quite shocking to a shrine maiden such as yourself. Though you are no virgin, it is no surprise you still lack experience.” His grin widened as her face flushed bright red again.

At that moment, Kagome remembered why she didn’t like being alone with Sesshoumaru. He was insufferable, always needing to be better at everything—school, work, and apparently even sex. Just because she grew up in a shrine, he assumed she had never done anything other than missionary. But Kagome was adventurous in everything she did, and she would prove it to him. If he wanted to play with fire, he better be prepared to get burned.

With a determined look, Kagome picked up the binder and shoved it into his chest. "Pick something," she challenged. "I'll wear it. In fact, I'll keep it on until we leave in the morning."

Sesshoumaru was momentarily taken aback by her sudden boldness. He stood there, holding the binder, and stared at her. But seeing the fierce determination in her eyes, he accepted her challenge. "Very well," he said, moving to sit back on the bed. After getting comfortable he took his time flipping through the pages.

Kagome let out an annoyed groan as Sesshoumaru meticulously examined each outfit. She picked up the forgotten food menu and sat on the other side of the bed, dialing the front desk to order dinner. As she was placing the order, Sesshoumaru reached over and took the phone from her hand.

"I would also like to order item number thirty-two from the catalog," he told the attendant smoothly.

Kagome snatched the phone back, her irritation obvious. She quickly confirmed her food order and hung up. "What did you pick?" she demanded, glaring at him.

Sesshoumaru remained silent, his eyes gleaming with mischief as he began to play on his cellphone. The binder sat between them next to Fluffy, a tantalizing mystery. Impatient, Kagome lunged for it, but Sesshoumaru's demon reflexes were faster. He grabbed it before she could reach it.

There was a knock at the door signaling the arrival of their dinner and costume. Sesshoumaru quickly retrieved them from the hallway and without delay handed Kagome a garment bag with a smug expression. "Here you are," he said, amusement dancing in his eyes.

Kagome took the bag, eyeing him suspiciously, and retreated to the bathroom. Unzipping the bag, she found a sexy version of a shrine maiden outfit. "Seriously?" she muttered while glaring at the outfit. The fabric of the sleeveless top was nearly see through and cut off right under her boobs. There was no way she would be able to lift her arms over a certain height without revealing all of her chest. Bellowing, cut off sleeves had to be tied at her elbows, the skirt had an open slit on either side, and a pair of thigh high red stockings completed the ensemble. With a resigned sigh, she changed into the outfit, giving herself a pep talk when she realized her underwear was still damp from the rain so would have to go without. Tugging the short red skirt as low as possible and adjusting the top, she placed the small lily behind her ear once more and took a deep breath and stepped out of the bathroom.

Sesshoumaru was setting out the food on a glass table, a spread of sushi and tempura. He heard the door open and turned, ready to tell her "I told you so" because he was certain she wouldn't wear what he had ordered. However, when his eyes landed on her, the words died on his lips. Kagome looked unbelievably sexy, and he realized he might have made a mistake. The outfit showed off curves he hadn’t known she had, a rather large chest she had kept so well hidden until now, and the way the red stockings fitted a snug too tightly on her thick thighs was mouthwatering.

Kagome held her head high, resisting the urge to adjust or touch the outfit. She felt his eyes on her but avoided his gaze, determined not to give him the satisfaction of seeing her flustered.

Sesshoumaru cleared his throat, trying to mask his surprise. "You look...different," he said, struggling to keep his tone neutral.

"Of course I do," Kagome replied curtly, taking a seat at the table. She quickly realized that the table was see-through, making her even more self-conscious. With a deep breath, she grabbed her chopsticks and started eating, focusing on the food to distract herself from Sesshoumaru’s penetrating gaze.

He joined her at the table, trying to act nonchalant about the whole situation he created. As they ate, the room was filled with an awkward silence, broken only by the clinking of chopsticks against plates. Sesshoumaru couldn’t help but steal glances at her, his mind racing with thoughts he hadn’t entertained before. Would her thighs be as soft as they looked? If she leaned back just a bit more then maybe he could see more of her breasts.

Finally, Kagome looked up, seeing his eyes locked on to her chest. "Is this what you expected?" she asked, her voice steady despite the way his heated gaze was making her feel.

Sesshoumaru smirked, though there was an edge of admiration as his eyes met hers. "I expected you to back out. You surprised me, Priestess."

Kagome smiled, a hint of triumph in her expression. "Maybe you don't know me as well as you think." Suddenly, a thought occurred to her, "You must have some kind of kink or fetish for shrine maidens, Sesshoumaru. You do like to call me 'Priestess' a lot." 

Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed slightly, not taking the bait. "Maybe I do," he said, his voice low and husky. "Or maybe I just enjoy one Priestess in particular.”

She nearly spit out her mouthful of water. Maybe she should have ordered some sake instead judging from the way her night was going. Clearing her throat, she set her chopsticks down and stood. Without another word to Sesshoumaru, she made her way over to the massive bed, picking up Fluffy and sitting herself in the middle of it. Casually, she called out, "Unless you're brave enough to share a bed with a Priestess, you'll have to sleep on the floor or in the tub."

As she grabbed her cellphone, she began responding to texts from friends while hugging her dog plushie. Sesshoumaru knew he was staring, but it was impossible not to.

Had he known that when he got up today he would have to spend four hours in a mind-numbing meeting, then take his little sister to a love-themed festival in another city for her first date, get dragged around by an annoying human female, and end up with said female at a love hotel of all places, he might have stayed in bed. Okay, maybe she wasn't so annoying, and he had enjoyed himself at the fair for the most part. The Ferris wheel he could have done without, although the part where she was laying under him wasn't so unpleasant.

His thoughts were interrupted when Kagome shifted, causing her skirt to rise up even higher as she giggled at something on her phone. The sight made his pulse quicken, and he felt his cock stirring under his robe. Yes, he should have stayed home.

Sensing his gaze, looked up and caught his eye. "What are you staring at, Sesshoumaru?" she asked, a teasing lilt to her voice.

As Kagome adjusted herself again, a new scent began to fill the room, one he had never smelled coming from her before. It had a spicy quality to it, like orange blossom and nutmeg. Once he realized what it was his mouth began to fill with saliva, and his golden eyes dilated. It was the scent of Kagome's arousal.

Sesshoumaru stood and slowly began to approach her, like he was being lured in as if under a spell.

She watched as he came closer until he was standing next to the bed, then to her shock he removed his robe. Now only in his black silk briefs, he carefully climbed into bed next to her, trying not to make any sudden movements so as not to scare her off.

"Kagome," he crooned, "you smell... delicious." Her scent had his beast trying to claw out and take a bite.

She blushed deeply, looking down at her phone as if it could save her. "Sesshoumaru, what are you doing?" She sounded a little too breathy for her liking.

His eyes were intense, filled with a mixture of curiosity and something darker. "I could ask you the same” honeyed gold eyes lingering on her legs. “Do you even realize how tempting you are?”

Kagome's breath hitched. The way he was looking at her was as if he wanted to devour her. His bare chest was so close to her now that she could reach out and touch the crimson stripes that wrapped around his broad shoulders, and maybe even the ones on either side of his hips or the set on his muscular thighs. Trying to keep her voice steady, she said, "I'm surprised you find someone as 'inexperienced' as me tempting."

He reached out, brushing a strand of dark hair behind her ear, his touch making her shiver. "Perhaps I misjudged you.” His hand trailed down her neck, sending another thrill through her.

She swallowed hard, her heart racing. "Sesshoumaru, I..." Kagome didn’t know what else to say. If she had told her past self that one day she would end up in a love hotel with a half naked Sesshoumaru of all people, staring at his adonis like body, she would have laughed.

He leaned in further and placed his hands on either side of her body, his breath hot against her ear. "Just a taste….” he whispered, "Allow me that.”

Her eyes widened at his words as he pulled back to look at her, the hunger in his gaze making her feel both exposed and titillated. "Sesshoumaru, this is..."

"Unexpected?" he finished for her, a fanged grin playing on his lips. "Yes, it is. But sometimes, the unexpected can be... exciting."

"Just a taste?” she asked as her heart hammered in her chest with anticipation. What qualifies as a taste? A lick on the neck? Quick peck on the lips?

She looked into his eyes once more, seeing the raw desire there. It was overwhelming, but also exhilarating. "Okay," she said softly, barely above a whisper.

Sesshoumaru's smirk widened, and before she had a chance to change her mind he closed the distance between them, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both gentle and demanding.

The first taste had his beast purring. Not only was this little temptress hiding a voluptuous body, but she tasted so sweet like fresh peaches and strawberries. He could not get enough of it.

As soon as their lips met Kagome melted into Sesshoumaru. He smelt like freshly fallen snow and pine needles. Kissing him was like running through a forest and Kagome was eager to get lost in it.

His tongue traced the seam of her mouth and she allowed him inside with a gasp. Every prod and tease was driving her mad.

Kagome needed to breathe, but Sesshoumaru was relentless, deepening the kiss. When she bit down on his bottom lip, he groaned and finally pulled away, only to latch onto her neck.

Trying to catch her breath, Kagome let out another gasp as she felt him begin to lick and suck. "I-I thought we agreed... j-just one taste!" she stammered, finding it incredibly difficult to focus on anything other than the sensation of Sesshoumaru’s fangs grazing her skin.

Instead of pulling away as she expected, a warm, clawed hand gripped her waist and slowly ascended.

Sesshoumaru let out a dark chuckle against her neck. "One taste was never going to be enough, Kagome," his voice a seductive purr. "You should know by now—I always crave more." To emphasize his point, Sesshoumaru started to push her barely-there Priestess shirt over her breasts.

The feel of his lethal claws tracing the bottom of her top pulled Kagome out of her wanton haze. She grabbed hold of Sesshoumaru’s wrist, trying to ignore the way he was nibbling on her ear. “Don’t be greedy. The deal was one taste, and the outfit stays on until morning.”

Sesshoumaru finally pulled away from her completely, his red-laced eyes filled with hunger as he stared at her. With a wicked grin, he said, "Alright, Priestess. As long as you stay clothed, can I indulge in sampling you until my beast is content?"

The meaning behind his question made Kagome's pulse quicken. She knew she should say no, push him away, and make him sleep in the tub. But a part of her was curious. She had only been with one man, her ex-boyfriend Hojo. He was a kind and thoughtful boyfriend, but he was so damn boring. Even in the bedroom, he kept asking if she was alright or if he was hurting her. It was exhausting and a mood killer.

Right now, she had the chance to experience something new, slightly erotic, and dangerous. The thought made Kagome pant heavily. After trying to reason with herself why this was a bad idea, she pushed those logical thoughts aside and said, "Fine. But the costume stays on."

Sesshoumaru leaned in once more, his breath warm against her lips. "As you wish, Priestess," he whispered, his tone dripping with promise.

His mouth was on hers again, tongue pushing past her lips to get another taste. Kagome felt like her body was on fire as his hand lowered and explored her exposed stomach, every heated touch causing her to gasp into his mouth and her abdominal muscles twitch.

Sesshoumaru's movements were deliberate, his claws skimming lightly over her skin, causing her to arch into him involuntarily. Pulling away again he muttered, "Just relax, little Priestess," his lips brushing against her ear.

He moved so quickly that Kagome never had a chance to react. In an instant, he had her pinned against the bed, one hand holding her wrists above her head while the other continued its tantalizing path along her stomach. With her arms stretched above her, her Priestess top rode up, exposing her supple breasts completely to him.

Kagome's breath hitched as Sesshoumaru's eyes darkened further, crimson nearly overtaking what was left of the gold. His hand, warm and possessive, traveled upward once more, this time without the barrier of her clothing. The first touch was featherlike, barely there as the tips of his claws circled the areola around a hard nipple.

"Sesshoumaru," she whispered, a mix of protest and yearning in her voice. "What are you doing? We agreed-"

But he merely smirked as his head descended to her other breast, "The outfit is still on, is it not?," his voice a low growl. His hand now occasionally grazed her sensitive peak while his tongue lapped at its twin before blowing on it.

The dual sensations had Kagomae’s body arching away from the bed. Despite her initial resistance, Kagome felt herself falling completely into him. The hunger in his eyes, the heat of his body against hers, and the sheer power he exuded overwhelmed her senses. She felt a thrilling mix of fear and excitement, knowing that she was completely at his mercy.

Before she could respond, he captured her lips in another searing kiss. The hand holding her wrists tightened, and the other fully encased her heavy mound, massaging it and moving with a calculated slowness that drove her mad with anticipation.

When he finally broke the kiss, he pulled back just enough to look into her eyes. "Do you want me to stop?" he asked, his voice a mere whisper, but the weight of his question was clear.

She knew she should stop this, that it would change their entire relationship, but the way he made her feel was unlike anything she had ever experienced. She took a deep breath, her determined blue eyes locking with his, and shook her head slowly. "No," she whispered back. "Don't stop."

Sesshoumaru's eyes flashed with satisfaction, and his grip on her wrists softened slightly. "Good," he murmured, lowering his head once more, “Because I am just getting started."

With that, he latched onto her forgotten nipple and sucked hard. Kagome's world narrowed to the sensation of his touch, the heat of his mouth, and she heard herself cry out from the pleasure of it all.

A deep rumble reverberated through Sesshoumaru’s chest causing another pleased moan to slip Kagome’s bruised lips. Her skin tasted almost as sweet as her mouth with a slight saltiness to it. The tiny waves of holy powers that would occasionally brush his tongue had him groaning and his cock swelling further.

While biting and pulling on the sensitive bud, Sesshoumaru shifted just enough to wedge a leg between shapely thighs. His knee came forward to grind into her center but then suddenly stopped when he discovered she was not wearing any underwear. Sesshoumaru was frozen in place, the feel of her arousal coating his knee momentarily short-circuited his brain.

Confused as to why he stopped, Kagome looked down at the top of his head. The silver hair cascading over her body and harsh exhales from his nose were beginning to tickle. “Sessh-“

She never got the chance to finish calling his name as Sesshoumaru sat up, flipped her onto her stomach and positioned her on her knees. Startled by his sudden action, she looked back to ask what he was doing but ended up gasping into a pillow when his rough tongue lapped at her drenched folds.

This. This was what he had been craving ever since her delectable scent woke his beast. All day, she had been teasing him—her happy floral fragrance filling the air, her graceful neck invitingly on display, and the intimate gesture of sharing her meal with him. Each interaction had stoked the fire of his desire, building up to this very moment.

Sesshoumaru's senses were on high alert as he sampled her, her breath coming in soft, shallow gasps beneath him. The sight of her quivering sex ignited something primal within him. Her exposed skin was like a magnet to his touch, and he couldn't resist gripping her plump rear roughly and spreading her further.

Kagome's mind was a whirlwind of emotions. Part of her wanted to push him away, to regain control of the situation, but another part—a deeper, more lewd part—wanted to press herself more into his hot mouth. The way he seemed to savor every inch of her with such hunger and need made her feel like the most exquisite delicacy, and he was desperate to uncover the sweetest secrets hidden within her.

Demanding more, Sesshoumaru thrust his tongue deep inside her and began to rub her clit with a thumb. Kagome’s throaty moan had him plunging faster and pinching her swollen pearl until she was shaking against him. A choked scream into her plush dog had him humming in delight as he drank up her orgasm, being sure not to waste a single drop.

Once he finished accepting her offering, Sesshoumaru sat back on his heels, taking in the sight before him. Kagome lay sprawled on the bed, her upper body pressed into the mattress as she buried her face into her dog plushie, her breath coming in ragged gasps. The red skirt hung loosely around her hips as her bottom half remained raised, her legs trembling from the intensity of her release. Her folds were still fluttering and twitching in the afterglow of her orgasm. She was beautiful, a perfect blend of innocence and eroticism, and it took all of Sesshoumaru's restraint not to dive back in for more.

The cock twitching in his briefs was begging to be released.

As he began to run his fingers over Kagome's swollen outer lips, he skillfully removed his underwear and began to pump himself with a fist. Each time his fingers teased her entrance, Kagome let out a little mew and wiggled her ass. When a single finger pushed inside, she threw her head back and moaned loudly.

He kept a slow and steady pace before adding a second finger, his other hand stroking himself in time with his movements. When a third finger joined in, Kagome's dazed ocean blue eyes looked back at him. Seeing him naked and his member standing proudly as he touched himself had her whimpering with need.

Sesshoumaru leaned closer until his large chest was nearly pressing onto her back, his voice a low growl. "You like what you see, Priestess?" he teased, his fingers curling inside her, hitting just the right spot.

Her response was a throaty moan, body arching into his touch. "Y-yes," she stammered, her voice breathless as she met his crimson stare.

He gave her a fanged grin, his eyes blazing with renewed hunger. "Good," he rumbled. "Because I am not done with you yet."

Pulling back from her, Sesshoumaru removed his fingers and lined his thick erection up to her entrance. He paused, looking at her as if waiting to see if she would stop him. When Kagome made no move to protest, he slowly pushed in, his hands latching onto her hips, claws digging in as he hissed. "You are so tight, Priestess," he growled, his voice dripping with pleasure. "I can feel you squeezing me so perfectly."

Seeing himself buried inside her had Sesshoumaru nearly feral. "You like this, don't you? Being rutted up by a demon? You are such a naughty little shrine maiden."

Kagome tried to answer but another buck of his hips had her crying out once more.

Sesshoumaru chuckled, pulling out halfway before thrusting forward again, a little harder this time. "I knew it," he continued, his tone a seductive purr. "You act all innocent, but deep down, you crave this. You want me to fuck you senseless."

Kagome pushed herself up on her elbows, still looking back at him with wide, dazed eyes. The maroon stripes covering his body were becoming jagged, a sign of his barely contained control. With each retreat and entry, he went in a little more until he was fully embedded inside her.

"You feel so good, Kagome," he groaned, his hips snapping forward. "I could do this all night. Fucking you, making you scream my name."

She gasped, her back arching painfully as he hit a particularly sensitive spot. "S-Sesshoumaru," she moaned, her voice high and desperate.

Kagome's breaths came in ragged pants, her body shuddering with each powerful thrust. She let out another scream when a large hand slapped her on the ass. The force of it only added to the pleasure she was feeling.

He growled in approval, his grip on her tightening. "You’re mine, Priestess," he panted, his voice raw with possessiveness. "Every inch of you belongs to me tonight."

Her response was a choked sob as her body clenched around him, bringing her closer to the edge. "Yes," she whimpered, her fingers gripping the sheets. "I'm yours."

Sesshoumaru's pace quickened, each thrust more forceful than the last. "You drive me wild, Priestess," he rasped, his eyes flashing between red and gold. "I’m going to make you come again, and then I'll take you even harder."

The room was filled with the sounds of slapping skin, growls, and moans. Kagome felt herself going mad from all the pleasure. Sesshoumaru was too big, hitting parts of her that had never been touched before. She began begging for more, harder, faster—so close to her climax that she could hardly stand it.

Sesshoumaru praised her for voicing her needs, his tone dripping with approval. "That's it, little Priestess. Tell me what you want."

"I want more," she gasped, her voice trembling. "Please, Sesshoumaru, harder!"

A dark, satisfied growl rumbled in his chest as he leaned over her, pressing one hand onto the mattress while the other pushed her upper body down flat. He pounded into her with such force that she saw stars, her release slamming into her with overwhelming intensity. Her cries echoed through the room, but even as she was coming down from her orgasm, he didn't stop. He continued to thrust with urgency, driving her higher and higher.

When she thought she couldn't take any more, he pulled out and flipped her onto her back. Before she could catch her breath, he was inside her again, her legs draped over his shoulders as he set another bruising pace.

The angle was deeper, more intense. His hands clutched her hips, claws digging in just enough to heighten her pleasure without breaking the skin. "You feel incredible," he grunted, his voice strained with the effort of holding back. "So tight, so perfect."

Kagome's head thrashed from side to side, her fingers clutching his forearms. "Sesshoumaru," she moaned, her voice raw. "I can't... it's too much!"

His blood red eyes locked onto her, filled with a primal hunger. "You can take it, Kagome," he assured her, his voice like velvet.

Each thrust sent a shockwave of pleasure through her, building up again towards another peak. Her top stayed bunched up at the base of her neck allowing Sesshoumaru to watch as her heavy breasts bounced with each powerful thrust. "I-I’m going to come again," she cried out, her voice shaking.

"Yes," he growled, his pace never faltering. "Come for me, Priestess. I want to feel you tighten around me." A hand reached between them and began to roll her clit in time with his hips.

His words pushed her over the edge, her body lifting as another powerful orgasm ripped through her. She screamed his name, her inner walls clenching around him, drawing a deep, guttural moan from his lips.

Sesshoumaru's movements became more erratic, his restraint slipping. "Kagome," he groaned, burying himself deep inside her as he found his own release. His body shuddered, his grip on her hips tightening as he swelled and locked inside her, filling her completely as he spilled his seed.

For a moment, the only sound in the room was their heavy breathing. Sesshoumaru slowly lowered her legs, leaning down to press a soft kiss to her forehead, cheek, and then lips. "You did well, Kagome," he murmured, his voice gentle now. "You were perfect."

Kagome looked up at him, her eyes half-lidded and hazy. "You weren’t so bad yourself," she managed to say, a small, satisfied smile playing on her lips as she wrapped her arms around him.

Sesshoumaru chuckled softly while plucking the small lily from her tangled hair and bringing it to his lips. "Rest now, Priestess," he said, his voice oddly tender. "We have all night."

***********************************************************************************

The sound of a phone ringing jolted Kagome awake from a deep sleep. She groggily felt around, her hand landing first on Sesshoumaru's hard, muscular body beneath her, then on Fluffy, the dog plushie lying beside her back, and finally on her cellphone. Without thinking and still half-asleep, she answered the FaceTime call from Sango.

"Kagome, where are you? Why didn’t you text to say you got home last night?" Sango's concerned voice echoed through the phone.

Kagome squinted at the bright screen, seeing her friend’s worried face before noticing the time. It was nearly nine in the morning. In a raspy voice, she apologized, "I’m sorry, Sango. I’ll make sure to text you when I get home."

Sango's eyes widened. "If you’re not home, then where are you?" She asked while trying to take in her friend’s surroundings.

Just then, Sango caught sight of movement behind Kagome and nearly screamed when she saw an arm drape over her. When silver hair and golden eyes came into view, she blushed and mumbled, "Hello, Sesshoumaru."

"Hm," Sesshoumaru responded with a deep, satisfied rumble. He began to kiss and suck on Kagome's neck, clearly undeterred by the FaceTime call.

Kagome's face turned a deep shade of red, a mix of embarrassment and lingering arousal. "S-Sango, I’ll call you back," she stammered, trying to angle the phone away from Sesshoumaru’s wandering mouth.

Sango's eyes were wide with shock, but there was a hint of amusement in her voice. "Alright, but you better call me later with all the details!" Noticing her friend's attire she asked, “Are you wearing a slutty Priestess costume?”

Kagome quickly ended the call and set her phone aside. She turned her head to glare at Sesshoumaru, who was smirking at her with a mischievous glint in his golden eyes.

"Was that necessary?" she asked, trying to sound annoyed but failing as his hands fondled her breasts.

Sesshoumaru's smirk widened. "You looked too tempting to resist," he murmured, his voice husky as his lips trailed down her neck. "Besides, I believe you owe me another round for waking me up so early."

Kagome couldn’t help but laugh softly, the sound turning into a gasp as he found a particularly sensitive spot on her neck. "You really do have a fetish for shrine maidens."

"Hm. Only for one shrine maiden," he replied, his tone possessive as he rocked his eager erection against her rear.

She rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide her smile. "Fine, but let’s make it quick. I really need to call Sango back before she bursts from curiosity."

Sesshoumaru moved her onto her back and positioned himself between her thighs, his breath warm against her lips, he said. "As you wish, Priestess.”

With that, he captured her lips in a passionate kiss, making her forget all about the call for just a little longer.