#stepintolove

A door slamming caught her attention. Her eyes gleamed. An open building. The rain picked up, drenching her small frame as she ran across the large grassy median between the rows of buildings. One wrong turn of her heel on a step and she went down. “Ahhh! Noo!” Her hip collided with the cement stairs, the two packages in her hands went flying into a nearby bush.

“Can you walk?” The question came with an offered hand. She could barely hear his deep voice through the clap of thunder.

Suddenly she wasn’t alone, but she couldn’t make out much of the man through the downpour. “I think so.” Her cold hand pressed into a warm palm. His long fingers captured her. A gentle hand on her other shoulder helped her to her feet. 

“You’re not putting any weight on your left ankle.” His face was shadowed by the hood of his black rain coat, but she could make out the worried slant of his lips. 

Kagome winced, “I’m scared to try...” Even without the weight, gravity made it ache. “It hurts already. Ohh!” 

Without any warning, he lifted her into a strong embrace, “We can’t stay out here,” and carried her into the building. 

Her cheeks burned. Stunned. “Um...T-thanks...” Even through the thick raincoat she could feel the heat radiating off his body. His arms were thick with muscles. She felt weightless in them.  

The walls of books were a dead giveaway, they were in the college library. Each breath smelled like old paper. The lights flickered. Her grip of his shoulders tightened. He moved quickly through the rows of shelving until they came to a study area with benches and chairs. 

He placed her onto a padded seat and stepped back. “You can sit here.” Peeling off his raincoat, the man had her blushing a deeper shade of red. The mysterious stranger. The guy was freaking hot.

Silver hair pulled back into a thick bun accentuating the masculine angles of his face. Intense amber eyes peered over at her, as she nervously fiddled with the hem of her skirt. 

He was wearing a grey button down with a black tie and black slacks. His eyes were contemplative but his expression was indifferent. “I will return in a moment.”

“O-okay.” She bit her lip. His long strides quickly took him from her view. Her phone buzzed loudly, alerting a dead battery. Great. Stuck in the library with a stranger. -If he returned. At least he seemed nice. The thought of being completely alone in the massive building gnawed at her. An open silent space. Her pulse pounded in her ears. The lights flickered again. If they went out, she’d be fumbling around in the dark to find her way to the exit. She ran her hand over her ankle and winced. The idea of trying to put weight on it felt like it’d be a mistake. What if she made things worse?

“This is from the break room,” A hand towel landed on the chair arm. For being so tall and muscular, he was rather stealthy. She hadn’t noticed he’d returned until he spoke.  

“Thanks.” She took the towel and dried her face, hissing as her foot shifted. 

 “Do you mind if I take a look?” He didn’t wait for her to say yes as his tall frame kneeled and he took her foot into his hand. Gently he removed her sneaker. “Too bad the ice machine is broken. Your ankle is starting to swell.”

Her heart raced, breath hitching, “W-what are you...” His knuckles rolled over the sensitive bottom of her foot. 

“Can you move your toes?” She wiggled them in her sock. “Good. Here, press.” He held his hand steady as she pushed against his open palm. “Tell me if it hurts.”

“J-just a little.” She bit her lip to hold back a giggle. Each stroke of his fingers had tingles washing up her leg. He focused all his attention on her injured foot, studying the roll of her ankle, asking if any movement caused her pain. 

Finally, he glanced up at her, “Lucky for you, it’s only a sprain. How is your hip? I saw you fall, the landing must have hurt.”

Her face felt hot. His questions were so personal. “It’s likely bruised, but I’m sure it’s fine...” Would he be wanting to massage that as well? Her nose felt like it was going to bleed any moment now.

His eyes narrowed, but he didn’t press further. Long fingers brushed over her lower leg as he gently placed her foot back on the floor and helped her back into her shoe. “Do you live on campus? I don’t mind helping you back to your dorm.”

“N-no,” Her expression turned grave, “I don’t actually go here, I was here bringing... oh no!” Her hands covered her face, “I was bringing some packages to my step brother, and they are probably ruined now.” Her heart sank, Daichi-san trusted her to deliver them and now... “I-I dropped them when I slipped.” Rain-soaked. How could she be so careless? 

Warmth met her knee, “Do not try walking on your own while I retrieve your items. What do they look like?”

How embarrassing! Her eyes were wide and worried, “Oh! You don’t have to do that, I don’t mean to inconvenience you at all! You’ve already done so much for me, I couldn’t possibly ask you to go out into that storm!” 

A faint smile touched his eyes as he slipped his coat back on, “It’s no-” The lights went out in an instant. A moment passed in complete darkness as they waited for them to flicker back on. They didn’t. “Unfortunately that means the electronic door locks will not open, and the safety doors will alert emergency respondents.”

“Oh?” Kagome ran her fingers through her damp hair, “That means we are stuck here, doesn’t it?” The pitch dark felt unnerving in such a large unfamiliar space, especially with a stranger. She bit her lip. Her fingers dug into her palm. 

“Your packages are stuck outside.” Fabric rustled and she realized he’d pulled out a phone. It flashed brightly. A large empty battery signal. “Is your phone charged? Mine’s dead.”

“I wish...mine’s dead too.” Why hadn’t she charged it on the car ride here? Whyyyy... Thunder pounded outside and hail began to pelt the windows. She held back a cry. Normally it wouldn’t have bothered her so much, but at the moment she didn’t feel completely safe. 

A small stream of light erupted in front of her, it moved closer. “All I have is this book light. I had intended to get some studying done, however it would be unkind to leave you in the dark alone.”

“I-it’s alright.” She swallowed the knot forming in her throat. Her nails bit harder into her palm, “I don’t want to impose upon you any more than I already have. I-I don’t mind waiting by myself until the lights come on.” What a big liar. 

A scoff echoed in the empty building, “The lights will likely be out for some time. Be honest. Do you really not mind sitting here alone in the dark? You said so yourself you do not attend this school. The area is unfamiliar to you.” He added in a whisper that slithered up her spine, “You are so nervous your voice quivers.”

He had a point. Several. Thunder resounded again, and lightning lit up the room through the windows. His thoughtful expression was visible for only a moment, but it made her feel unreasonable all the same. If she were honest... “If it’s no trouble, I’d prefer to stay together.”

“Good.” Warm arms captured her against his firm chest, “My materials are on the third floor.”

Her face felt so hot. She’d never get used to being carried so intimately by someone. It was a good thing the lights were out so he couldn’t see just how badly he affected her. Her fingers curled into his shoulders. “You’re not going to drop me on the stairs are you?” 

His laugh had her uncomfortable. “I’m not the one here that has issues with stairs.” 

She glared at his shadowed face. “I just mean...”

“I know, it’s dark.” His fingers caressed her arm, “I can see well enough to make it up the stairs, and you are not so heavy that I would drop you.” Hot breath seeped into her hair, “Just keep your body close and try not to worry.” He shifted her weight. Instinctively her arms wound around his neck. Her nose grazed his silky hair, the clean familiar scent of her favorite shampoo blossomed. “Yes, like that.”

“O-okay...” It could be a mistake, but there was something about him and being pressed so close to his body that left her speechless and completely trusting. The warmth lulled. He was being so kind. “Thank you,” She whispered, leaning into his shoulder as he carried her through the dark building.  

He moved through the space like he knew it well. “It’s nothing.” The deep whisper filled the quiet of his steps. 

“Hmm,” She smiled, her blush intensifying as his hands squeezed her closer, “Maybe to you.”

They made it up the first flight of stairs. Despite the intensity of the storm, moonlight slid through the clouds and poured in from a wall of windows. They paused. His golden eyes glowed as he peered down at her flushed face. He tilted his chin, a slight smile appearing on his face, “I have a feeling I’m not going to get as much studying done tonight as I’d hoped.”

“Oh? Because the power is out?” She bit her lip as she peered back at him.  

“Right.” Lightning struck close by. “We better get away from the windows.” He walked away from the moonlight and into the darkness, “Will your brother be worried when you haven’t shown up?”

Kagome shook her head, “To be honest, I don’t even think he knew I was coming. His dad decided spur of the moment that he wanted some things brought to him.” She pulled back a bit to look at him, “You aren’t asking me that so you can cut me into little pieces without anyone noticing, are you?”

“No,” He laughed, “Although...I make no promises about big pieces.” 

Her eyes went wide. “Um...”  

“I’m joking.”

“That’s a really dark sense of humor you have.” Her arms crossed over her chest as she scowled at him.

“Yeah,” She could feel the smile in his voice, “I guess it is.” Suddenly he tripped up the next step and she flung her arms back around his neck, plastering herself against his chest while he laughed.  

Blue eyes narrowed. “That wasn’t funny.”

He was grinning, “The little eep sound you made was very cute.”

“I’m starting to worry that I might not make it out of here alive.” They made it to the next wall of windows. His warm eyes gave her chills. 

Her heartbeat raced with the heat of his whisper, “People afraid for their lives usually are not smiling.” 

“I’m not...” Her fingers covered her traitorous lips. His laugh did things to her she didn’t want to admit. This strange sexy man. She bit her lip and hissed, “Better hurry so you can get to studying.” She wondered what exactly this guy would be studying. Mortician books?

They made it to a nook on the third floor. A window on the far wall lit up the area enough to see piles of books and notes sitting beside an open laptop. “I had no idea this campus was so trustworthy.” He helped her onto a large cushioned bench against the wall. 

“Normally I wouldn’t leave these things out, however, the campus is almost deserted this time of year, and I had forgotten my favorite pen.” He waved what looked to be an ordinary black pen in the air.

She laughed, “Ah, couldn’t leave a favorite pen.” 

“Not for anything.” He looked proud as he sat it on top of a nearly full note book. 

It was admirable, the effort he was putting into whatever he was doing. She pulled a book off the top pile. A medical journal. A bright yellow tab stuck out. Kagome opened it to the page, reading out loud, “The Effects of Partner Presence and Sexual Stimulation on the Appraisal of Vagin-”

He slapped the book closed, face an endearing shade of red. “You shouldn't read that.” 

Her own face felt hot too, but the title had nothing to do with it. “Now I’m curious,” She flipped the book back open to an accompanying illustration, and giggled as he snached it away. “What exactly are you working on?”

“If you must know,” He moved the stack of books out of her reach, “I’m writing a paper on sexual stimulation and infertility. It's an important assignment.” His glare was unnerving. 

“Interesting,” She bit her lip. So the sexy dude was into sex stuff. “I will do my best to offer moral support while you continue your studying and research paper.”

A small smile eased the intensity of his eyes, “That would be helpful.” As he took a spot on the bench, he bent down, and handed her a hoodie from his backpack. “Here, you can use this for a pillow. It’s getting late.” 

“Thanks.” Their fingers brushed. The touch stirring up emotion she dared not think on.  

“It’s nothing, I’ve taken responsibility for you while we are stuck in here.” He cradled her legs in his lap as he pulled his laptop closer while plugging in a portable laptop charger. “You can be my little sister for right now.” He winked. 

Her face flushed and she covered it with the sleeve of his hoodie. The smell of coffee filled her nose. She could picture this guy drinking lots of coffee. He knew the library well, and was studying over spring break. He had to be an excessive coffee drinker. Her heart felt strange as she peered over at him. The nice stranger that decided he wanted to keep her company through the long dark night. The thought made her toes curl. 

“Why are you watching me?” He murmured, keeping his eyes on the screen as he typed away. 

She bit her lip, “I was just thinking.” Of things she’d never say out loud. Ever.

He tilted his head at her, curious, “About me?”

Her face felt on fire, “Yes... I just don’t understand why you are being so nice to me?”

With a small shrug, he started typing again. “I want to be. If I want to do something, I do it.” When he glanced back at her, the look in his eyes gave her pleasant chills, “And I do it well.” 

“That’s good.” She laughed, trying to hide her embarrassment. “I’m glad you didn’t decide to ignore me.” 

“Hn.” The indifferent sound came with a contradicting grin, “Feel free to go to sleep. I will wake you when the lights come on.” Warm fingers stabilized her ankle as he pulled off her shoes.

“Sure.” She yawned, and winked. “Good night, Big Brother.” Weirdly, calling him that made her ache low in her belly. Who would have thought she was that kind of perv...

“Goodnight, Little Sister,” He tweaked her pinkie toe, his expression roguish as she hissed.      

She covered her face back up with his coffee smelling hoodie, “Don’t do that.” Even though she was tired, it was hard to fall asleep so close to the strange guy. He was so attractive. The day had gone so weird. She bit her lip and pressed her palms against her hot cheeks. 

At some point she must have fallen asleep, because she woke up in a completely different position. The sound of a heartbeat against her ear. Warm arms held her tight against a firm chest. Her palm splayed over a shoulder. She blinked. This had never happened before. 

Sunlight filled into the shadows of the room, but the lights were still out. The electricity had yet to return. Her fingers shifted down his chest. His nipple grazed her palm through his shirt and she bit her lip. 

“It is rude to feel people up without asking first.” 

Wide-eyed, she bristled, “That’s not... I wasn’t...” His intense eyes had her tripping over words.

“Shhh,” His strong hand pushed her back against his chest, “I’m only joking. It’s still early, stay still a while longer.” Warmth seeped into her. So inviting. 

“Fine.” She leaned back against the comfort. It was so strange, but it felt, oddly enough, very welcoming. It was nice to wake up to being held, likely even nicer if they were lovers. 

As if he were thinking the same thing, he suddenly asked in a sleepy murmur, “Are you dating anyone?”

Her face flushed, “I don’t even know your name, and you are asking if I’m single?”

“I do not need to know your name in order to know what I want.” He spoke into her hair and her entire body trembled. 

Her face burned as her whispered confession slipped, “I feel drawn to you, but we’ve only just met...”

His voice grew an octave deeper, “My name is Sesshomaru Tanaka, and I would find it most pleasing if you would let me get to know you more thoroughly.”

“Sesshomaru...” She pulled back and looked at his face. His name was so familiar. His features were familiar. That silver hair...

He swallowed hard. Amber eyes on her like she was prey in his arms, “If I had known the things you saying my name would do to me, I’d have told you sooner.” Warm fingers eased along her forearm, exciting every nerve in their wake. She trembled. That deep penetrating expression...it was so familiar. 

It was the same one her little step brother used when looking at ramen. It was the same look her step father gave her mom when he thought no one was looking. Oh. No. She bit her lip and held her hands against her flushed cheeks. “You might want to rethink that...”

His grin didn’t lessen as he brushed strands of her hair back behind her ear. “I’m not the sort of person to rethink these things. Especially not if you feel this connection.” His fingers gathered her hands from her face and held them in her lap. “I do not intend to give up easily.”

“Sesshomaru, I...” Suddenly he leaned closer, capturing her nervous words against his soft lips. Her lashes fluttered closed as she sunk into the delicate heat. It consumed. The gentle press turned firm. His tongue whispered over her bottom lip. His large warm hand captured the side of her face. Fingers slipped through her hair as he drew her closer. When he pulled away, she felt emotion well up in her chest. She touched her fingers to her lips. The handsome grin on his face had her heart aching in ways it never had before. Suddenly she couldn’t look him in the eyes. It hurt too much to say what she had to tell him, because she liked him too. “My name is Kagome Higurashi.”

“Hn.” His smile slipped, but then he laughed, still holding her hand. “You are feeling hesitant then, because your Mother is now married to My Father.”

“Well, yes.” She furrowed her brows and looked up at him, “We really are brother and sister.”

He brushed his knuckles over the side of her face, “My dear little sister, I do not plan on letting you escape me so easily.” His thumb caressed her bottom lip. Looking at her with such passion in his eyes. She thought she might burn up right there.

As she blushed back at him, stunned, the lights buzzed back on. 

“Hn.” Glancing up at the lights above, one would think his favorite toy had been stolen by the scowl on his face. “Kagome, I will return you home.”

“O-okay...” Though something told her he wasn’t through with trying to seduce her, she was glad he put things on hold. Another kiss and she’d really be gone. Her heart pounded. She pulled her fingers from his grasp and held them against her chest, as if that would stop him from hearing the sound or stealing her heart. The sexy stranger turned out to be her new step brother. Fate was cruel. She watched him pack up his things with a slight frown. Why did he have to be her brother? 

“How does your ankle feel this morning?” He asked while organizing the stack of books on the table into two different piles.

“It doesn’t hurt much,” She tried pushing into the floor and pressed her lips together, “I think I can manage walking on it. Whaa-”

He took her foot into his hands and slowly rotated the socket. “It’s not swollen any longer, push against my hand again.”

“Okay,” She sighed, following his instructions. “Are you going to go to med school when you are done here?”

“I am.” He ran his knuckles along her skin and she bit her lip, the sensation was even more enjoyable without the steady throb. “Put on your shoes and try standing.”

He held her hand as she stood. His palm so warm. She could imagine it warming up other places on her body. “It’s better, not perfect, but I can manage. You really don’t need to take me home, I can drive. W-why are you looking at me like that?”

Amber eyes narrowed at her, his lips a thin line. “I want to take care of my little sister.” 

“Aren’t you taking the whole big brother thing a bit too far?” Did he want a romantic relationship or a brotherly one? She bit her lip. Blue eyes searched his face. She didn’t understand him. 

He sighed, running his fingers through the strands of bangs that had fallen loose from his bun. “Returning you home safely is something I must do.” Looking up at her from his place on the floor, she found it hard to resist the gentle gaze he caught her with. “Not to mention it is Spring Break, and I have yet another new sibling to become accustomed to.”

“Souta.” Kagome nodded, “He’s pretty impressionable. Inuyasha seems that way as well. That’s a big reason why we can’t-”

His forehead pressed against her thigh, “Kagome, the fact that our parents are married is not a deterrent for how I feel.” His nose brushed against her skin. Hot breath spurred a tremble. “I am determined to get you to accept that it does not matter.”

When had her fingers caught into his silky hair? Her hands were traitors. She pulled them back, curling her nails into her palms, “You can try, but I’m not easily swayed, Sesshomaru.” 

“Perfect.” A soft tempting kiss teased her thigh just below the edge of her skirt. “Challenges are my specialty.”

“Ahhh,” She caught her gasp with her hand over her mouth, “Sesshomaru!” Her face burned. Her heart felt like it might explode. She was sure she’d die right then and there if he brushed his lips over her skin again. “We are going to have to go over some ground rules.” 

His eyes gleamed, smiling like a sexy demon while leaning back on his heels. “The more challenging, the better, Little Sister.”  

“You are so bad, Sesshomaru...” So, so deliciously bad.

Sesshomaru seemed like he had everything thought out and put together schoolwise, but she was certain he was overworking himself. The thought felt daunting. Being a sophomore, she wasn’t even entirely set on a major yet. Here he was planning to go to med school. Would he have been finished with his paper by now if she hadn't shown up that day? 

She distracted him. 

Because of her, he was spending his entire spring break stuck in his bedroom. 

Hands went to her chest as the feeling of guilt burned there. 

“Kagome!” Inuyasha growled. Souta and his friend raced right in front of her.

“Sorry Inu!” She pressed her lips together, “You guys have fun. I-,” Her gaze went back to the window, “I have something I need to do.”

He pouted, “But, Kagome, you said you’d be on my team.” His puppy eyes pulled her heart strings. 

Running to the main house, before she changed her mind, she shouted, “I promise to make it up to you!” 

“Kagome?” Kira found her daughter standing in front of her eldest step son's room. A tray of food and tea caught her curiosity, “What are you up to?”

“Well,” She bit her lip, not looking away from the door, “He hasn't come out for any meals...”

“It's sweet of you to worry for your new brother. Why don't you knock? He'll likely be glad to have such a thoughtful little sister.” With a large grin, Kira started down the stairs, “Knock before the tea cools!”

“Right...” Kagome bit her lip. There was nothing weird about her taking a meal to her older step brother, nothing at all. Sucking in a deep breath, she rapped her knuckles on the door and it creaked open. “Hey... Sesshomaru?” No answer. 

She stood there a moment. The cracked open door begged to be walked through. She wasn't sure if it'd be okay. Would he be upset? She was disrupting him again.

Just as she turned to leave, she saw him in the room. Slumped over his desk, asleep. 

The door clicked shut behind her as she quietly entered. Placing the tray on his end table, she watched him take soft sleepy breaths. Bun forgotten, long silver hair spilled down his back and shoulders. She reached out and slid her fingers through the silken threads. God it felt spectacular. How did he have such ethereal hair? 

Narrowing her eyes at him, she pressed her lips together. Her heartbeat quickened as he stirred. A sigh escaped his parted lips. 

She'd been right about him not taking care of himself. Her fingers slid through his luscious hair, gently pushing it over his shoulder so she could see him properly.

Sleeping peacefully, his long lashes fanned his sharp cheekbones. He looked so cute. Like sleeping beauty if beauty were an arrogant sexy man.  

She brushed her fingers across his smooth cheek “Sesshomaru...” He didn't stir. She leaned closer and brushed his cheek again, “Sesshomaru?”

His hand moved, still clutching his computer mouse. The laptop came alive with a white glow and settled. The text drew her attention. Medical jargon immediately stuck out at her. She peered the document. 

A research paper on the effects of arousal after long term abstinence. Her face flushed, but she took the mouse and scrolled down.

Soft and warm, something pressed against her cheek. She turned her head to see a pair of amused amber eyes. “H-hi...” 

He took her hand off the mouse and pulled her into his lap. The way her face ignited in red as she gasped stirred him in ways that weren’t brotherly. “You were looking at things you shouldn’t again.” His voice rough from sleep.

Her arms crossed over her chest, “I can look at what I want.” Narrowing her eyes, she tilted her chin, “And, you are the one in trouble here.”

“Me?” He smirked, “In that case, you are welcome to punish me.” 

“Sesshomaru!” Her cheeks puffed out, eyes like a storm, “I-I’m not punishing you, I brought you something to eat.” 

His gaze followed the wave of her hand. Sitting on his end table was a tray with a plate of food and a steaming cup. She’d been thinking of him. He knew it. Glancing back at her blushing face, he smiled. “Thank you, Kagome.” 

“I-it’s nothing!” She tried to stand up, but his firm hands kept her in place, “Sesshomaru...let go!”

“Not yet,” He grinned, “If you are worried about me, I should hold you awhile so you know I’m fine.” 

“T-that’s not necessary.” 

“Of course it is.” He grabbed her hand and placed it on his forehead, “You better check my temperature since you are here.” 

She bristled, trying to pull her hand back until the heat hit her skin, “Y-you’re actually kind of warm...” She leaned close, staring into his eyes, “Sesshomaru, are you sick?”

“I might be,” His hot breath kissed her lips, “You should stay awhile to make sure I’m not ill.”

Her fingers slid over his forehead again, he did feel hot. Did he usually run warm? Her lips pressed together. “Fine. On one condition.”

“Name it.”

“Get in bed.” 

His eyes widened. 

She flicked him hard, “I never said I would be getting in with you, only you are getting into bed. If you want taken care of, I’ll take care of you.” It was positively sinful how excited he made her, but she couldn’t give in. She hadn’t let Hojo in her pants, and she wouldn’t be letting her sexy step brother into them either! No matter how arousing the thought of touching said step brother was.

He patted the top of her head, grinning, “You're really cute when you're angry.” 

“I am not!” Her face grew hot and she clapped her hands over the blush she knew had to be there, “Quit teasing me.”

Frowning, he helped her off his lap, “I don't tease.”

She bit her lip. “Y-yes, you do.” The intensity of his gaze had electricity zinging up her spine. She rubbed the back of her neck. 

Without another word, he sat up in bed with his legs underneath the covers. “Happy?”

“Yes.” She nodded, “Now drink your tea.”

“I refuse.” 

"You can't!” Her brows drew together as her hands landed on her hips, “What do you mean you refuse?!”

“I mean,” He settled back against the headboard with his hands behind his head, “If you want me to drink it, you'll have to bring the cup to my lips.”

She narrowed her eyes, “Don't think I won't.”

“Ah,” Devilish eyes gleamed back at her, “I'm counting on it.” 

Her voice quivered, “I-I'll check on you soon!” She left the room so fast, he almost didn't see her move. 

He'd pressed too hard. 

Noted. 

Taking the tea in hand, he took a deep drink and smirked.

Undeterred, his cashmere sock eased higher. So silky and smooth. She regretted wearing a short skirt as her body ignited with the simplest touch. 

They’d been playing the game since dinner began, her resolve was wearing thin as her panties were getting wetter and wetter. Every sinful hungry glance he settled her with made everything worse. 

He ran a finger over the side of his lip as she growled. 

"Kagome? Are you alright?" Her mom’s brows were up into her hairline.

Her face flushed. "Y-yeah, of course I am." The mischievous foot teased the inside of her knee, and her leg bounced up and hit the table. “Actually!” She yelped, “I, um, have to go use the bathroom.” 

Sesshomaru licked his dessert off the back of his spoon, watching her as she ran toward the bathroom upstairs instead of the one down the hall. 

His step mother’s brows were drawn. Her usual smile had turned slightly downward.

Sesshomaru pressed his lips together in thought before interrupting the silence, “This mousse is delicious, Kira-san. Thank you for making it.”

“You are such a dear Sesshomaru...” Her mother sighed, “Kagome must not be feeling well.”

Ah well, not feeling well, or feeling too well, one of those was the cause. Sesshomaru wouldn’t be saying which. 

“Sesshomaru,” His father pointed his fork at him, “Go check on your little sister.”

Already out of his seat, he kept the grin off his face, “I’d be glad to.” 

Kagome splashed cold water on her face, when that didn’t ease her pent up desire, she decided that no one would miss her. They had all finished dinner anyway, dessert didn’t count. 

Besides... “It’s time for my dessert.”

Sesshomaru lightly rapped his knuckles on Kagome's bedroom door. The entry gave, but she wasn't there. 

The familiar creak of the faucet in their shared bathroom caught his attention. Light poured into the room from the crack between the bathroom door and the molding. 

Fuck. He turned away from the temptation to look in on her as she bathed. A soft gasp, and he dropped onto the floor. The wall felt cool against the back of his head.

Kagome sunk into the water with a calming bath bomb and her vibrator. With everyone down stairs she didn’t have to hold every sound in. Dying to let loose, she couldn’t wait to get back to her dorm room. It’d be the break she needed from her in house sex demon.

Little did she know, her older step brother could hear every sound she made.

On edge, Sesshomaru listened to the soft moans of his step sister through the thin bathroom door. Every breathy moan had his cock pulsing. She sounded so delectable. Dulcet and tempting. If he couldn’t have her in his arms, he’d settle for listening to her pleasure herself. 

Each hitch of her breath burned into his memory.  

He imagined her slender fingers sliding down her stomach while her other hand caught a breast. Her neck stretched back as her lips parted in revelry. 

God. He wanted to bring those sounds to her lips. With his mouth. And hands.

“Sessho...maru...” The sound of his name moaned from her lips, as she touched herself, forced him to pull away from the wall. He ran his hands through his hair. Knowing he’d been the one to set her off had precum staining his pants, but to have her confirm his suspicion burned in his chest. She wanted him. He'd known it. While he’d considered relieving himself to the sounds escaping her lush mouth, he couldn’t bring himself to do it now that the circumstance was apt. 

It wouldn't be enough.

"Hey, Sesshomaru?" 

When he didn't respond, she caught the side of his face, her thumb running down to his chin as she got him to look at her. "You okay? What are you doing in here?" Amber eyes blinked back at her, darker than usual.

Her mind went back to what she had been doing just a few minutes before. Touching herself. At the thought of him. Her cheeks instantly grew hot.

His cool palm captured the side of her face, “Kagome, I want to spend some time together tonight.”

“Oh?” Her heart slammed against her breast bone, “T-tonight?” Did he mean... Had he heard her?! “I...”

He stared at a water droplet trailing along her collar bone for a moment before glancing back up at her face, “Before we part ways.” 

That sounded so final. She glanced over at her already packed bags that were propped against the wall, and then back into the honeyed sea of emotion staring back at her. “We will see each other again in the Summer.” His rough thumb brushed against her lips and instinctively she closed her eyes at the touch. 

“Won’t you miss me?” He sounded so unlike himself. Quiet. Wistful.

God. He was beautiful.

Her heart ached.

Cool fingers left her skin. Her lashes fluttered open. His proximity forced her to catch her breath. He hadn't moved, and yet just a couple of inches and the comfort of his mouth could be all hers. 

For a moment it felt worth every consequence to simply lean forward.

Her breasts were heaving when she finally pulled her fingers away from the stubble of his cheek. They wanted to work their way through the silk of his hair and pull him against her body. 

She had to pry them away from him. Before she gave in. He made it so hard to say no. 

Leaning back on the balls of her feet, she let his question roll around in her head.

When she really thought about not seeing him for months, she had to fight the urge to throw her arms around his neck. "Of course I will." She sat on her hands to keep them in place.

“Then it’s settled.” His strange mood disappeared and he looked like his usual stoic and confident self. “Get comfortable and meet me downstairs.” 

Huh? Her brows furrowed. "But...Oh..." there'd be no winning, "Are we going somewhere?” 

Sesshomaru tapped the folded pile of clothes on her bed, “Just put on your pajamas.” 

“Okay...” 

Tiptoeing down the stairs, Kagome peered over the banister and into the living room. Her eyes lit. Popcorn and chocolates sat in neat dishes on the coffee table, along with various drinks, and a pile of DVDs.

Sesshomaru was stretched out on the couch under one blanket with a second folded neatly at his feet.

"What is this?" She tilted her chin. It was hard to not find the entire set up completely romantic. And adorable. Sexy. Sweet.

She had to wet her lips.

How could one man fit so many roles? 

He smirked, "A movie marathon. Pick from the pile what you want to watch."

Her brow quirked as she looked over the pile, "These are all documentaries about marine life or health, and," She held up the only movie out of the bunch, "Clueless?" 

"All tolerable choices." 

How could she say no to that grin? And what would be the harm in saying yes? Friends watched movies together all the time. So did brothers and sisters. 

It wasn't his fault she found it so hot. 

Though the western movie 'Clueless' was an obvious hint at what he wanted.

"Okay, on one condition." 

He nodded, looking much like a reserved dog staring at a treat, "Yes."

Kagome rolled her eyes, one hand on her hip as she took a piece of chocolate from a bowl. "I didn't even say what yet."

"Well," he reached out for the second blanket, "it's easy to infer, you don't want me to make any moves."

Her face became instantly hot, "Yes." No. The chocolate on her tongue quickly melted.

Sesshomaru patted beside him, "I have​ no impure intentions with this suggestion, so please pick out a movie and come cuddle up to me." 

Oh God. So much hot. 

She couldn't say no, but she also couldn't sit by him, cuddling. Though she wanted to. Badly.

“I’ll just sit here.” Taking a free pillow, she plopped it down in front of him on the couch and looked through the small selection of dvds. 

Sesshomaru laid her blanket beside her cushion, but sighed, “We’ve sat together before.”

“Well, we aren’t tonight.” So there. She fought the desire to stick her tongue out at him over her shoulder. He had spent the entire family dinner fondling her legs with his foot, he couldn’t be trusted, obviously.

Popping in the video, she took her seat and grabbed a drink.

They started with a documentary on sharks. Kagome leaned back, slightly tired. Warm fingers slipped into her hair. She stilled. “W-what are you doing?” 

“Playing with your hair.” He let the strands fall, “may I continue?”

Licking her lips, she stared at the fish on the screen and shrugged. “Go ahead.” It was fine. Friends played with each other’s hair all the time. She’d already accosted his pretty silver mass earlier that evening, fair was fair. And it felt nice. 

Very nice.

Sighing softly as his slightly sharp nails grazed her scalp, she let herself relax. Soon she’d be back at the books and trying to decide what to major in. As her mind mulled that over, Sesshomaru popped in the second dvd and began talking about research theories. 

The sound of his voice more soothing that the narrator’s, she quietly listened to him as he played with her hair. 

“Popcorn.” 

She looked up at him, “What?”

He glanced at the bowl of popcorn in her lap, and opened his mouth, “Feed me.”

“Right...” Laughing softly, she fed him one piece at a time as he went on. 

Not retaining much, but enjoying the light atmosphere between them. There was usually so much tension. It brought her back to the night them met. It’d been so weird, but also easy. He was easy to trust. 

“Sesshomaru?” Her small hand curled over his wrist. 

His deep gaze warmed her with just a glance, “What is it?”

“Can I play with your hair now?” Without waiting for an answer, she climbed onto the space beside him and took all the liberty she wanted. Gathering up all the hair she could get her hands on until it was draped over his shoulder and within her grasp.

“Popcorn?” He asked, holding a piece up to her lips. 

“Please.” She grinned, letting him feed her as she combed her fingers through his luscious silver hair. “Keep talking.” 

He took a sip of tea and grinned, “You aren’t getting bored?”

Shaking her head no, she grinned, “I like listening to you talk.” 

His eyes gleamed they way she'd seen them when he studied or spoke about his work. 

The documentary ended, but instead of turning on the next, they enjoyed each other's company with light hearted conversation, snacks, and Sesshomaru's lovely hair.

"Kagome." Sleepily, she opened her eyes with a yawn at the sound of her Mother's voice. "Oh that is so sweet, you and Souta used to fall asleep the same way when you both were so little." She smiled softly over the rim of her tea cup. “That really brings back memories.”

The heat on her ribcage took a second to register as a hand, and not her own. Sesshomaru’s. Touching... At least it was under the blanket. "Y-yeah..." Kagome pressed her lips together, hoping her mom wouldn’t notice the blush she was sure to be sporting. 

“Well, don’t mind me, you and your big brother just get some more sleep before heading out.” Kira clutched her hand to her chest and sighed as she walked away, “Ahh...If only I had met my Daichi sooner, I’d have so many cute photos of our children...”

The firm tips of Sesshomaru’s fingers left the underside of her breast, skating down, over her skin. He caught her stomach and pulled her closer. Frozen, Kagome’s breaths came in quick little puffs as she tried to calm down her heart.

Her pulse raced faster.

It was the middle of the morning. Everyone in the house had to be awake.

His slow and steady breaths on the back of her neck sent chills down her spine. Somehow he still smelled like the coffee and chocolate he’d eaten the night before. 

Suddenly his phone began to vibrate between them. Once. Twice. He sighed. His grip on her loosened, and she bolted.

“Good morning! I’ve got to go-OH!” Her knee banged into the coffee table, but that didn’t stop her from running all the way up the stairs and into her bedroom.

The door slammed behind her and she pressed her back into the cool wood. 

Hands went to her chest, fingers pulled at the fabric of her shirt. The scent of him clung to her. And his warmth. Pulling it up over her head, she carefully folded her shirt and put it in one of her suitcases. 

Waving the two eldest children goodbye, Kira folded her arms over her chest and watched them disappear down the street. Kagome in her little car, and Sesshomaru in his father's old suv. She glanced up at the window upstairs, catching her husband watching them out the window. The man tried to pretend he didn’t care so much as to need to watch them go, but she had known differently. Her gaze went back to the road.