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Chapter Text

Beautiful Disaster

Prologue

Kagome Higurashi tapped her laptop screen, the message cursor blinking like a guilty conscience. Outside the bus window, Nevada’s barren flats blurred into streaks of dust and scrub, a landscape as hollowed out as she felt. Her thumb hovered over the trackpad—send—before jabbing down hard. The email vanished with a soft chime, leaving only the rumble of wheels on asphalt.

“Dad, I’m sorry I ran off. I need a fresh start. I’m done bailing you out. I’m not gonna play poker anymore. I’ve always wanted to go to college, and I’ve just been accepted second semester. I wanna live a normal life with kids my age. I’ll call you when I’m ready to talk.

- Kagome.”

The Sacramento sidewalk pulsed with midday energy—honking cabs, chattering tourists, the sharp scent of exhaust and fried food. Kagome gripped her phone, knuckles whitening as she scanned the unfamiliar skyline. Her bag dug into her shoulder, heavy with everything she owned. Then, cutting through the urban buzz like an arrow: "Hey, pal!"

She spun around. Sango stood twenty feet away, grinning, arms already outstretched. Kagome's breath hitched—relief, joy, the sudden ache of months apart—before she broke into a sprint. They collided in a tangle of laughter and backpack straps, Sango’s familiar vanilla shampoo enveloping her as they swayed on the concrete.

"I missed you," Sango choked out, squeezing tighter.

Kagome buried her face in her friend's shoulder. "Missed you so much."

Sango pulled back, eyes bright. "Can't believe you're finally here!" Her laughter bubbled up again as she plucked at Kagome's sweater. "I'm sorry," she gasped between giggles, "but what are you wearing?"

Kagome laughed, the sound sharp and bright against the city noise. "It's the new me," she declared, gesturing down at her new 'good girl' look.

Sango's playful grin vanished instantly. She gripped Kagome's shoulders, her dark eyes searching her friend's face with unnerving intensity. "You good?" The question wasn't casual; it carried the weight of every late-night phone call and frantic text Kagome had ever sent her.

Kagome forced a wider smile, the corners of her lips feeling stiff. "Yeah," she breathed, the word sounding too light, too easy against the city's roar.

Sango studied her for another heartbeat, then nodded sharply. "Alright then." Her grin snapped back into place, bright and reassuring. "Do you wanna see your dorm?" she asked, linking her arm through Kagome's elbow.

Kagome's tension dissolved instantly. "Yes!" she breathed, the word infused with genuine relief. The city suddenly felt less overwhelming, anchored by Sango's familiar presence.

•••

In the dorm room‚ Sango stood by the open door‚ arms crossed as Kagome drifted toward the window overlooking a quadrangle of patchy grass and concrete. "Neighbors are decent‚" Sango offered‚ leaning against the frame. "Except the guy across the hall." She wrinkled her nose. "Vapes that horrendous blueberry shit 24/7. And blasts Nickelback. Nonstop."

Kagome peered at the closed door opposite theirs‚ a faint thumping bassline vibrating through the thin walls. "Crazy‚" she murmured‚ pressing her fingertips against the cool glass pane. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the quad‚ students milling below like ants around a picnic.

"Yeah‚" Sango sighed‚ pushing off the doorframe and taking a step further into the room. "Also‚ the showers suck."

Kagome turned from the window‚ a flicker of amusement crossing her face. "I’m sure the showers don’t suck‚" she teased‚ her voice light. She gestured vaguely around the room. "So, I see you spruced up the place."

Sango flopped onto her unmade bed‚ springs groaning in protest. She patted the space beside her‚ but Kagome sank onto her own twin mattress instead‚ the stiff fabric scratching her palms. "Yeah," Sango sighed dramatically‚ stretching her arms above her head. "You know, I just wanted to wait until you got here."

Kagome leaned forward‚ elbows on her knees. "Okay, spill. What's his name?"

Sango's grin turned luminous. "Miroku." She sighed the name out like it was something delicious. "And he is so hot." She fumbled for her phone, swiped frantically, and thrust the screen towards Kagome. It showed a guy with a lean, defined torso, sunlight glinting off damp skin, clearly mid-workout. His head was tilted back, laughing at something unseen.

Kagome studied the picture, tilting her head. "Hmm," she murmured, her tone deliberately neutral. "He doesn't have any face piercings." It was an observation, tinged with the faintest hint of surprise.

Sango snatched her phone back, rolling her eyes. "Yeah, I don't know," she laughed, the sound light and airy. "Sometimes you just wake up one day and like... pistachios?" She shrugged, a playful grin spreading across her face. Kagome burst out laughing, the absurdity breaking the last of her tension. They both dissolved into giggles, the shared silliness a familiar comfort.

"He's really excited to meet you, though," Sango added, wiping her eyes. "And he is taking us out tonight."

Kagome groaned, flopping back onto her stiff mattress. "Oh, no, San," she mumbled, pressing the heels of her hands against her gritty eyelids. "I am so tired. I just got here. It was a long bus ride." She gestured vaguely towards her unpacked bag. "I just wanna stay here and study."

Sango snorted, bouncing off her own bed. "Study? It's your first night!" She padded across the thin carpet, her grin turning wicked. "It'll be soo chill," she promised, her voice dropping into a conspiratorial whisper. Before Kagome could protest, Sango darted forward and grabbed her ankle. "Catholic school will let you off for one night," she teased, giving a sharp tug. "Come on!"

Kagome yelped, scrambling to grip the edge of her mattress as she was pulled halfway off. "No, I'm not going!" she laughed, her voice strained with mock outrage. She dug her fingers into the stiff fabric, her legs kicking uselessly. "I have to study, San! San!"

Sango tugged harder, her own laughter bright and insistent. "We're going!" she declared, planting her feet firmly. "Now come on, take off the chastity belt and let's go!" With a final, sharp yank, Kagome's grip slipped. She landed on the thin carpet with a soft thump, blinking up at her friend.

•••

Fifteen minutes later, Kagome found herself blinking in the sudden gloom of a narrow underground tunnel. Concrete walls vibrated with the thump of bass bleeding from somewhere ahead, punctuated by bursts of distant cheering and laughter that echoed strangely in the confined space. The air smelled damp, like old stone and spilled beer.

Kagome raised her voice over the pulsing noise. "So, where are we going?" she asked, squinting into the dimness ahead where Miroku's silhouette moved confidently.

Miroku glanced back, his grin flashing white in the gloom. "Oh, it's a surprise," he called out, his voice echoing slightly off the close walls.

Kagome hesitated, her gaze darting to a shadowed alcove where a bulky figure seemed to be slumped against the wall. "I think there's a guy..." she started, her voice trailing off as the figure shifted, resolving into a discarded pile of burlap sacks. "Nevermind," she muttered, shaking her head and quickening her pace to catch up with Sango, who was practically glued to Miroku's side.

The tunnel ended abruptly at a heavy, industrial-looking curtain made of thick, dark canvas, hanging loosely from a metal rod. Miroku pushed it aside with a casual flick of his wrist, revealing a sudden wall of sound and light. "Through here," he said, holding the flap open for Sango, who slipped past him with a grin.

Kagome followed, blinking against the abrupt assault of neon blues and reds strobing across a cavernous space packed with bodies. The air hit her like a physical thing—hot, thick with sweat, cheap cologne, and something sharper, metallic beneath it all. Miroku turned just inside the curtain, leaning close so his words cut through the pounding bass. "Oh, by the way," he yelled, his breath warm against her ear, "we don't talk about The Circle. It's a secret." He flashed a charming, slightly conspiratorial smile.

Kagome frowned, leaning in closer. "What's a secret?" she shouted back, her voice barely audible over the pulsing music and roar of the crowd.

Miroku’s grin was sharp and fleeting. "Exactly," he said, winking before turning sharply away, Sango's hand tightening possessively on his arm as they watched what was about to unfold.

Suddenly, a deafening electronic wail sliced through the bass-heavy din. Every head snapped towards the center of the packed room. A hush fell, thick and expectant. A man stood in the center of the large room, holding a portable siren aloft. With a decisive click, he silenced it.

"Welcome," his amplified voice boomed, echoing off the concrete walls, "to the BLOOD BATH!" The crowd erupted in a primal roar. He grinned, scanning the sea of faces. "If you're looking for Economics 101," he yelled, "you are in the wrong fucking place! But if you seek The Circle..." He paused dramatically, letting the tension build. "...this is Mecca!" Another wave of cheers crashed over him.

Kagome whipped her head around, seeking Sango's reaction, only to find her friend locked in a passionate kiss with Miroku against the vibrating wall. She turned back, a knot of unease tightening in her stomach.

The man threw his arms wide. "My name is Adam!" he declared, his voice raw with authority. "I make the rules! I call the fight!" Spotlights snapped on, converging on a narrow entrance tunnel across the room. "Tonight," Adam bellowed, "we have a new challenger! Eastern star varsity wrestler... Kouga Ookami!"

A lean, muscular figure strode into the harsh light, shirtless, clad only in black shorts and white boxing tape over his knuckles. Kouga raised his fists, punching the air with sharp, controlled jabs as the crowd cheered. Sweat already gleamed on his defined shoulders under the glare.

Adam raised his hands again, silencing the cheers. "Alright, alright!" he shouted, his grin turning predatory. "Now, our reigning champ needs no introduction..." He paused dramatically, letting the tension coil tight. "...but because he scares the absolute shit outta me‚" Adam chuckled nervously into the mic‚ "I'm gonna give him one anyway!" The crowd roared in anticipation. "So shake in your boots, boys! And drop your panties, ladies!" Adam thrust a finger towards the tunnel entrance. "I give you... Inuyasha ‘Mad Dog’ Takahashi!" The roar that followed was deafening, primal.

Kagome saw Sango screaming beside her, eyes wide with exhilaration, while Miroku pumped his fist in the air, shouting the name: "Inuyasha! Inuyasha!"

Kagome leaned close to Sango’s ear, her voice strained against the noise. "I've heard enough," she yelled, gesturing towards the chanting crowd. "This isn't for me! I'm just gonna go back to the dorm and study!"

She turned sharply, pushing through the dense wall of bodies towards the heavy curtain exit. The press of sweaty limbs made her stumble. She caught herself instinctively, her left hand landing flat against a solid, bare chest. Heat radiated through her palm. Her gaze snapped down – intricate black tattoos coiled over defined pectorals and washboard abs. Her eyes traced the ink upwards, over a strong neck, and finally locked onto intense, golden eyes staring down at her. He hadn't flinched.

"Hello," Kagome breathed, the word swallowed by the roar.

Inuyasha stared down at her, his golden eyes unblinking. Heat radiated from his skin beneath her palm. Slowly, deliberately, he lifted her hand off his chest. His grip was surprisingly gentle, calloused fingers brushing her knuckles. "May I?" His voice was low, gravelly, cutting cleanly through the surrounding chaos.

Kagome swallowed hard. "Uh-huh," she breathed, the sound barely escaping her lips. He released her hand and strode past without another glance, moving with predatory grace toward the center. The crowd parted for him like water around a stone.

She didn't watch him go. Her gaze remained fixed on her left palm, where the phantom heat of his skin still pulsed against her own. The roar of the crowd faded to a dull thrum in her ears. Her fingers curled slowly inward, pressing the sensation deeper.

Then she turned.

The crowd surged, a living wall pressing her forward until she stood near the front. There was no ring. Just a circle of bodies trapping Kouga and Inuyasha inside, the concrete floor stained dark in patches. Adam stood between them, a coiled spring of anticipation. His gaze flicked from Kouga’s tense stance to Inuyasha’s unnerving stillness.

"You ready?" Adam barked at Kouga. The wrestler bounced on the balls of his feet, nodding sharply. Adam spun towards Inuyasha. "You ready?" Inuyasha didn’t nod. He just stared at Kouga, golden eyes flat and predatory. A low growl rumbled from his chest, barely audible over the crowd’s restless murmur. Adam grinned savagely. "Fight!"

Inuyasha exploded forward. Kouga ducked the wild swing, darting behind Inuyasha’s momentum and locking his arms around the other fighter’s torso in a crushing bear hug. Inuyasha snarled, driving his elbow back hard. The sharp crack echoed as bone met jaw. Kouga grunted, stumbling back, blood already trickling from his split lip. Before he could recover, Inuyasha spun, a whirlwind of silver hair and fury. His foot slammed into Kouga’s stomach, lifting him off his feet. Kouga flew backwards, crashing into the front row of spectators. Hands shoved him forward violently, propelling him back towards Inuyasha. Kouga shook his head, bouncing lightly, fists raised defensively. They circled, the air thick with sweat and aggression. Kouga feinted left, then lunged with a powerful right hook. Inuyasha slapped the punch aside contemptuously and countered instantly, his own fist snapping Kouga’s head back with brutal force.

Kagome watched, breath trapped in her throat, as blow after blow landed on Kouga – sharp jabs to the ribs, a hook to the temple. Inuyasha moved with terrifying grace, untouched, golden eyes narrowed in cold focus. Then Kouga surged, desperation fueling a powerful kick that caught Inuyasha squarely in the abdomen, driving him back a step.

Inuyasha stumbled, his gaze instinctively flicking to the source of the shove in the crowd. His eyes locked directly onto Kagome’s. For a heartbeat, time seemed to freeze. There was no recognition, no arrogance, just an unnerving, predatory stillness in his stare. He didn’t smile. Didn’t smirk. Barely acknowledged her existence before snapping his focus back to Kouga with terrifying speed. He launched himself forward, a silver blur. Kouga barely had time to raise his guard before Inuyasha’s fist hammered down onto his face like a falling hammer.

Adam’s yell of "Oh shit!" was swallowed by the crowd’s roar. Kouga staggered, dazed, but instinct drove him forward. He grabbed Inuyasha, pulling him into a clumsy headlock, raining desperate punches onto Inuyasha’s ribs. Inuyasha roared, driving his knee upwards into Kouga’s gut. Kouga gasped, his grip loosening. Inuyasha shoved him back violently, ducked a wild, off-balance kick, and spun. His leg swept out in a vicious arc, connecting solidly with Kouga’s ribs. Kouga doubled over, wheezing. Inuyasha didn’t hesitate. He pivoted, driving the sole of his boot upwards in a brutal arc. It connected squarely with Kouga’s jaw. Kouga’s eyes rolled back, and he crumpled to the stained concrete like a sack of bricks.

The crowd erupted into a frenzy. Chants of "Mad Dog!" shook the damp air. Inuyasha stood panting, sweat gleaming on his tattooed chest, golden eyes scanning the roaring faces. He didn’t raise his arms in victory. He just stood there, breathing hard, radiating raw, untamed power.

Then, his gaze landed squarely on Kagome again. He didn’t look away. He walked straight towards her, parting the crowd effortlessly. People cheered and yelled congratulations, but he ignored them all. He stopped inches from her, the heat radiating off his skin perceptible. Kagome froze, pinned by that intense stare.

"Um, excuse me," he said, his voice surprisingly calm amidst the chaos, rough but clear. "Are you new here?"

Kagome swallowed, her mouth suddenly dry. "Y-yeah, I—" she stammered, her words catching in her throat. She barely registered the blur of motion behind him.

A figure, face contorted with rage – Kouga, staggering back to his feet, blood streaming from his nose and mouth – lunged forward. His fist, still wrapped in padded fighting tape, swung in a desperate, wide arc. It connected with a sickening crack against the side of Inuyasha's jaw. Kagome gasped. Inuyasha’s head snapped sideways. His eyes widened fractionally in pure surprise before his legs buckled. He crumpled backwards, landing flat on his back on the stained concrete with a heavy thud, utterly motionless.

Silence crashed down, heavier than the previous roar. Kagome stared, frozen, at Inuyasha’s prone form.

Miroku’s frantic yell cut through the stillness, "Come on, Inuyasha, get up!"

Beside her, Sango clutched Miroku’s arm, her voice tight with panic, "Get up! Get up!"

Kouga stumbled forward, swaying but triumphant, raising his bruised arms high. A hesitant cheer started to ripple through the stunned crowd. Kagome’s gaze snapped from Kouga’s battered victory pose back to Inuyasha lying utterly still. Shock tightened her chest, a cold dread washing over her.

Then, impossibly, Inuyasha’s legs bent sharply. His hands slapped flat onto the concrete beside his head. In one fluid, explosive motion, he propelled himself upward, jumping onto his feet. The movement was pure coiled power, effortless as a panther righting itself. He landed lightly, facing Kouga, golden eyes blazing with feral intensity. A stunned gasp ripped through the crowd, followed instantly by a deafening, primal roar that shook the concrete walls.

Kagome’s breath caught. An unconscious smile flickered across her lips, unbidden and bright, vanishing almost as quickly as it appeared. She hadn’t realized she’d been holding her breath until the air rushed back into her lungs. Kouga’s triumphant grin faltered, replaced by dawning horror as Inuyasha advanced, wiping a smear of blood from his jaw with the back of his hand.

Adam’s amplified voice boomed, "Come on, Inuyasha!"

Kouga lunged, a desperate roar tearing from his throat. Inuyasha pivoted, a blur of silver hair and coiled muscle. His fist connected with Kouga’s jaw with a sickening crunch. Time seemed to stretch. Kagome flinched as a spray of warm, coppery blood splattered across the front of her pale sweater, stark crimson droplets blooming against the soft knit. She stared down, stunned, then jerked her gaze up just as Kouga crumpled bonelessly to the stained concrete. Inuyasha remained poised, fists still raised, chest heaving. Sweat traced the hard lines of his tattoos, gleaming under the harsh lights. His eyes, molten gold, locked onto hers. A slow, predatory smirk curved his lips. Kagome’s own expression remained frozen in utter shock, her mind blank.

Adam surged forward, grabbing Inuyasha’s wrist and thrusting it skyward. "Winner!" The roar that erupted was deafening, shaking the very foundations of the underground space. "Mad Dog! Mad Dog!" chanted the crowd. Inuyasha lifted both hands, acknowledging the adulation as two burly men hauled Kouga’s limp form away.

Kagome spun sharply, desperate for air, pushing blindly towards the exit curtain. A rough shove from a drunken spectator sent her stumbling backwards. Strong arms encircled her instantly, halting her fall. She looked up into Inuyasha’s face, inches from her own. His expression was unreadable, intense.

"You okay?" His voice was low, gravelly against the fading cheers. He set her firmly back on her feet and released her immediately, as if her touch burned.

"Uh-huh," Kagome breathed, her voice shaky.

He tilted his head, golden eyes scanning her face. "Hey, you standing here," he said, jerking a thumb towards the stained concrete circle behind him. "I don't know if that's good for me. Usually don't get distracted like that."

Kagome just stared, mute.

His gaze flicked down to the crimson splatter marring her pale sweater. "Sorry 'bout your sweater, Pidgeon," he murmured, nodding towards the stain.

Instinctively, Kagome glanced down. A soft click sounded as Inuyasha gently tapped her nose with his fingertip. A startled, fleeting smile touched her lips before she could stop it. Inuyasha’s eyes held hers for a heartbeat longer, then Adam clapped him hard on the shoulder, pulling him away towards the tunnel entrance amidst a fresh wave of cheers.

Kagome stood frozen, fingertips brushing the spot on her nose where his touch still lingered. She watched the crowd swallow Inuyasha’s silver hair and broad shoulders, the damp air suddenly feeling colder. The metallic tang of blood mixed with stale beer filled her nostrils.

A hand clamped onto her arm. "I can't take you anywhere," Sango declared, her voice thick with amusement and adrenaline.

•••

Later that evening‚ Kagome stood before the full-length mirror bolted to the dorm room door. The harsh overhead light illuminated the stark crimson splatter blooming across the front of her pale sweater. She peeled it off slowly‚ letting it fall to the thin carpet‚ followed by the crisp white blouse beneath. Her fingers trembled slightly as she undid each button‚ the image of Inuyasha’s predatory smirk flashing behind her eyes‚ superimposed over the stain.

Steam quickly fogged the small bathroom as she stepped under the hot spray. She tipped her head back‚ letting the water sluice down her face‚ neck‚ and over her breasts‚ tracing paths through the lingering tension. With each slow exhale‚ she tried to wash away the damp tunnel smell‚ the metallic tang of blood‚ the roar of the crowd. But behind her closed eyelids‚ sweat gleamed on intricate black tattoos stretched over hard muscle‚ golden eyes burned with feral intensity‚ and a body moved with terrifying‚ effortless grace—untouchable‚ invincible‚ until that moment he crumpled… and then exploded back up.

Her fingers moved over her skin‚ soap slick‚ tracing the curve of her hip‚ the dip of her waist. The water beat down‚ a steady drumming counterpoint to the frantic pulse in her veins. She imagined calloused hands‚ rough against her knuckles‚ lifting hers away from his chest. The phantom heat bloomed anew‚ low in her belly‚ as she pictured the coiled power in his shoulders‚ the sharp lines of his abdomen‚ the predatory stillness before the strike. The way he’d looked at her‚ just before Kouga lunged—utterly focused‚ unnervingly direct.

She scrubbed harder‚ as if she could scour the image away‚ but it persisted. The effortless explosion upward after the cheap shot‚ landing light as a cat‚ golden eyes blazing defiance. The raw‚ untamed energy radiating off him even as he stood panting‚ victorious. The smirk. That slow‚ knowing curve of his lips aimed solely at her‚ cutting through the chaos like a blade. Her breath hitched‚ steam filling her lungs‚ mingling with the memory of his gravelly voice: “Sorry ’bout your sweater‚ Pidgeon.”

Drying off‚ she avoided the mirror‚ pulling on soft pajamas. The dorm room felt too quiet‚ too ordinary after the damp roar of The Circle. She climbed into bed‚ the thin mattress unfamiliar beneath her. Closing her eyes‚ darkness painted vivid pictures: the intricate swirls of ink over hard muscle‚ sweat tracing paths down defined abs‚ the coiled power in his shoulders before he launched forward. The phantom heat bloomed low in her belly again‚ insistent‚ undeniable.

Sleep pulled her under‚ dragging her back into the pulsing heart of the crowd. She stood frozen‚ not in the packed room‚ but alone on the stained concrete circle. Inuyasha stood before her‚ shirtless‚ tattoos stark under harsh‚ unseen lights. Sweat glistened on his chest‚ catching the gleam. His golden eyes held hers‚ intense‚ unwavering‚ stripping away every pretense.

A slow smirk curved his lips. "What's up‚ Pidgeon?" His voice‚ rough gravel‚ vibrated through her bones. The sound‚ the look‚ the sheer proximity—it wasn't fear‚ but a raw‚ electric thrill that jolted her awake.

Kagome gasped‚ bolting upright in the narrow dorm bed. Her heart hammered against her ribs like a frantic drum. Cool air rushed into her lungs‚ sharp contrast to the phantom heat flooding her cheeks. Instinctively‚ her right hand flew up‚ pressing cool fingers against her burning skin. A shaky breath escaped her‚ followed by a small‚ involuntary whisper‚ "Wow."

She shook her head sharply‚ as if dislodging cobwebs‚ and swung her legs out of bed. The worn carpet felt rough under her bare feet. With brisk‚ almost angry movements‚ she stripped the tangled sheets away from the small twin mattress. Kneeling beside it‚ she slid her hand deep into a precise‚ hidden slit cut along the side seam‚ her fingers brushing against the familiar‚ dense stacks bound tight with rubber bands. She pulled out thick bundles of cash‚ crisp hundreds‚ laying them silently on the bare mattress frame.

•••

Later that morning‚ Kagome sat stiffly in a hard plastic chair opposite the university bursar. Sunlight streamed harshly through the large office window‚ illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. The dark-skinned woman locked eyes with Kagome‚ tapping a pen rhythmically against the neat stack of forms on her desk.

"Listen‚ Kagome‚" she said‚ her voice crisp and professional‚ "tuition payments need to be set up through a bank account or a credit card." She leaned forward slightly‚ her expression softening almost imperceptibly. "There is accountability to be considered‚ not to mention the taxes." Her gaze flickered meaningfully towards the thick envelope of cash Kagome had placed on the desk corner moments before.

"I’m in the process of setting one up‚" Kagome said, her voice hopeful. She kept her hands folded tightly in her lap, nails digging into her palms.

The burser sighed, leaning back in her chair. The pen tap-tap-tapped again. "Can't your parents help you out? Get things straightened faster?"

Kagome swallowed. The cheerful smile felt brittle. "It's... complicated." Her knuckles whitened in her lap. "My mom... I haven't spoken to her in years." She paused, the words sticking. "And my dad..." Her gaze dropped to the worn linoleum floor. "...is not... the best guy."

The woman’s pen stilled. Her eyes softened slightly, a flicker of understanding replacing the bureaucratic rigidity. She sighed, a quiet sound lost in the sterile office air. "Alright," she conceded, her eyes flicking to the envelop. "I'll allow it for this semester. But," her tone sharpened, "you must sort out a proper bank account. This," she tapped the cash emphatically, "will not happen again."

"Thank you," Kagome breathed, relief flooding her voice. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Her bright smile felt genuine this time, fueled by pure, unadulterated escape. She practically sprang from the chair, the plastic scraping harshly against the floor.

•••

That afternoon, under the weak Sacramento sun filtering through campus trees, Kagome picked at her food across from Sango at a chipped metal picnic table. "So," she said, "I talked to the bursar this morning. She ended up taking the cash." She shrugged, trying for nonchalance. "At least I'm covered for the semester."

Sango paused mid-bite, her brow furrowing. "Okay... but what happens when the money runs out?"

"I don't know," she admitted, her voice dropping slightly. "I'll find a job. Or get a scholarship. Something." She shrugged, forcing lightness she didn't feel. "I'll figure it out." Her eyes flickered past Sango's shoulder, and a small, genuine smile touched her lips. "Incoming."

Miroku appeared beside their table, balancing a tray with practiced ease. His grin was wide and easy as he slid the tray down beside Sango. "Hey, Pumpkin," he said warmly, placing a steaming coffee cup directly in front of her. "Got you a coffee."

"Thank you!" Sango beamed, wrapping her hands around the warm mug immediately.

"Awee," Kagome murmured, her smile softening at the gesture.

Miroku slid a second coffee cup across the table towards her. Steam curled lazily from the lid. "That's for you," he offered, his grin easy.

"Awe, thanks," Kagome said, wrapping her chilled fingers around the warm cup. The heat seeped into her palms, a small comfort against the lingering unease from her morning meeting.

Miroku leaned forward, elbows resting on the chipped metal tabletop, his grin turning mischievous. "So," he drawled, his gaze flicking between Kagome and Sango, "how was last night? Did you have fun?"

Kagome took a slow sip of her coffee, the bitter warmth grounding her. "Yeah," she said, her voice carefully neutral. "It was... memorable." She paused, her gaze drifting away for a moment before snapping back. "So," she asked, aiming for casual curiosity, "what was the deal with that one guy? The guy covered in tattoos."

Sango snorted, stirring her coffee. "Oh, that guy?" She jerked her thumb towards Miroku beside her. "That's his cousin. He’s a sophomore."

Kagome’s eyes widened. "Oh." She shifted her gaze to Miroku, disbelief sharpening her tone. "That guy goes to college?" Her mind flashed to sweat-slicked tattoos, predatory stillness, and the brutal efficiency in the ring. "Wow‚ that is surprising."

Suddenly‚ Inuyasha’s voice‚ low and rough‚ cut through the air right behind her ear. "What’s surprising?" His large hands landed firmly on her shoulders‚ warm and heavy through her thin shirt‚ making her gasp and stiffen.

Sango grinned‚ leaning back‚ while Miroku chuckled‚ nodding, responding‚ "That you go to college."

Inuyasha slid onto the tabletop beside Kagome‚ his hip brushing her arm as he settled. He raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Why can’t I go to college?"

Miroku pointed directly at Kagome‚ his smile widening. "Hey‚ I didn’t say it‚ bro. She said it."

Kagome’s eyes widened‚ snapping up to meet Inuyasha’s intense golden gaze. "What? No‚ I didn’t say that!"

Inuyasha leaned closer‚ his voice dropping low‚ rough velvet brushing her ear. "Sorry‚ have we met?"

Miroku chuckled‚ swirling his coffee. "Oh‚ you don’t remember‚ Inuyasha? You ruined her sweater."

Inuyasha shrugged‚ a lazy smirk playing on his lips. "I ruin a lot of sweaters."

Kagome met his stare‚ her tone dry. "I’m pretty sure they retired bad double entendres."

Inuyasha snapped his fingers‚ golden eyes lighting with recognition. "Pidgeon!"

Kagome held out her hand‚ palm facing down. "Kagome. My name is Kagome."

He grasped her hand firmly‚ his calloused skin warm against hers. "Inuyasha. Inuyasha Takahashi." Then‚ unexpectedly‚ he lifted her hand‚ turning it palm-up‚ and pressed a brief‚ firm kiss against the center.

Kagome snatched her hand back instantly‚ wiping her palm briskly against her jeans. "Does that move really work?" she asked‚ her eyebrow arched.

Inuyasha leaned back‚ resting his weight on his palms braced against the tabletop‚ a lazy smirk spreading across his face. "No‚" he admitted‚ his voice a low rumble. "Not a single time." He tilted his head‚ his gaze unwavering‚ surprisingly direct. "But it is sincere."

Kagome nodded slowly‚ then shrugged‚ her expression deliberately neutral. "You're not my type."

His smirk widened into a cocky grin‚ flashing sharp canines. "I'm everybody's type." Kagome couldn't help it; a soft‚ disbelieving chuckle escaped her lips before she could clamp it down. Instantly‚ Inuyasha pointed a finger‚ triumphant. "See? I got you. I got a smile outta you."

Kagome shook her head sharply‚ forcing her features back into cool detachment. "No‚" she corrected‚ her voice firm. "No‚ that was not a smile. That was actually a condescending chuckle."

"Yeah‚" Inuyasha drawled‚ leaning back slightly. Then‚ the sharp buzz of a phone vibrated loudly from his pocket. He pulled it out‚ glanced at the screen‚ and swiped the answer button in one smooth motion. He stood up‚ offering Kagome a brief‚ almost imperceptible nod. "Hey‚" he said into the phone‚ his voice dropping to a low‚ businesslike tone as he walked a few paces away‚ putting distance between himself and the table. His words were clipped‚ indistinct murmurs Kagome couldn't catch over the campus background noise. Barely five seconds later‚ he hung up.

He turned back‚ striding past Kagome without breaking his pace. "See ya later‚ Pidgeon‚" he tossed over his shoulder‚ his voice casual‚ dismissive.

Kagome twisted sharply on the bench‚ her knuckles whitening around her coffee cup. "Kagome‚" she stated‚ her voice clear and firm‚ cutting through the campus chatter. "My name is Kagome."

Inuyasha didn't pause‚ didn't turn. His broad shoulders shrugged‚ a dismissive ripple under his leather jacket as he kept walking. "Well‚ it's Pidgeon now!" he called back‚ the words tossed carelessly over his shoulder like discarded trash‚ his stride never faltering.

Kagome spun back to the table‚ her jaw tight. She jabbed her coffee cup towards his retreating back. "Can you believe that guy?" The words‚ sharp with exasperation‚ hung in the air. Silence answered her.

She blinked. Sango and Miroku were locked in a deep‚ oblivious kiss‚ Sango's fingers tangled in Miroku's hair‚ Miroku's hand resting possessively on her thigh. Kagome stared‚ her righteous indignation instantly deflating. She shook her head slowly‚ a wry twist touching her lips‚ and deliberately took a long‚ scalding sip of her coffee.

•••

After lunch, Kagome slumped in the stiff lecture hall seat, ignoring the professor's drone about macroeconomics. Her phone glowed brightly in her lap, thumb scrolling through Inuyasha's Instagram feed. Picture after picture flashed: Inuyasha grinning beside a dark-haired girl holding a beer bottle and flashing a peace sign; Inuyasha shirtless, fists raised triumphantly beside The Circle's stained concrete; Inuyasha mid-punch, muscles coiled and sweat flying. She paused on a close-up. He stared directly into the camera, lips slightly parted, skin gleaming under harsh lights, fists raised near his jawline.

A soft, involuntary whisper escaped her lips: "He is so hot." She stared, mesmerized by the raw intensity captured on the screen.

Behind her, unnoticed, Inuyasha leaned forward slightly in his seat, a slow, predatory smirk spreading across his face as he watched her scroll through his life. His voice, low and rough, cut through her daze, vibrating against the back of her chair. "That one's my favorite."

Kagome froze. Her spine snapped straight. Eyes wide with mortification, she slowly, deliberately turned her phone face down onto the scarred wooden desk in front of her, pressing her palm flat against the cool screen.

"It's too late to close it now," he murmured, amusement thick in his tone.

Kagome squeezed her eyes shut for a heartbeat, gathering herself, then spun sharply in her seat. "Has anyone ever told you," she hissed, her voice tight with irritation, "that it's not polite to—"

"Young lady?" The professor's voice, amplified and sharp, cut across the lecture hall. Heads turned. Kagome froze mid-sentence, her furious glare still locked on Inuyasha. He instantly melted down in his seat, vanishing behind the row of desks like smoke. The professor peered over her podium, laser-focused on Kagome. "What is your name?"

Kagome faced the front, spine rigid. "Kagome," she stated, her voice clear and carrying in the sudden silence.

"Ms. Kagome," the professor said, her voice sharp as a scalpel slicing through the lecture hall's silence. "Would you care to educate us as to why Nash's equilibrium is irrelevant to game theory?"

Kagome kept her spine straight, knuckles white against her jeans. "Irrelevant?" The word tasted bitter. "I can't."

The professor's lips thinned. "Well, perhaps you better focus a little more on—"

Kagome cut her off, voice clear and sharp as breaking glass. "Well, that’s because it is relevant." Every eye in the lecture hall locked onto her. She ignored the heat creeping up her neck. "If equilibrium is achieved, it means neither player can improve their payoff by changing decisions unilaterally. It can also be understood as 'no regrets'—once a player does make a decision, they’ll have no regrets thinking about the consequences."

The professor paused, eyebrows lifting slightly. "Have you been reading ahead?"

Kagome kept her gaze steady. "A bit." The professor nodded curtly and resumed her lecture. Kagome exhaled slowly, only to stiffen as warm fingers brushed her arm.

Inuyasha leaned in from behind, his breath tickling her ear. "Wow, Pidgeon," he whispered, low and rough. "That was so hot. You got brains."

Without turning, Kagome hissed, "Why are you here?"

His chuckle vibrated against her seatback. "Why are you sending me mixed signals?"

She clenched her jaw. "There's nothing mixed about my signals."

His voice dropped to a conspiratorial murmur. "I just caught you insta-stalking me."

Kagome whipped around, cheeks flushing. "I was not insta-stalking!" She met his golden stare, her tone sharp. "Look, I'm gonna save you wasted time. Stop the antics. I'm not sleeping with you."

Inuyasha leaned back, a slow smirk spreading. "I'm not trying to sleep with you." He paused, his gaze unwavering. "Or bag you... I’m just tryin' to take you to dinner."

Kagome blinked. "Bag me?" Her voice rose incredulously. "What am I, groceries? Have you not read a newspaper in the last four years?" She turned forward, adding over her shoulder, "Men don't talk like that anymore."

His brow furrowed slightly. "Which men?"

Kagome spun back, locking onto his golden eyes. "The evolved men. From planet earth? The ones who are actually in touch with their feelings?" Silence stretched between them, thick and charged. Inuyasha didn't blink, his expression unreadable stone. Kagome sighed, the fight draining out of her. "I don't like you." Still, he stared. She pressed her palms flat on the desk. "Leave me alone." His gaze remained fixed, a predator assessing prey. She slumped. "You're not going to let this go, are you?"

A slow, deliberate smirk touched his lips. "I'll pick you up at eight." He stood abruptly, shouldering his backpack with effortless grace.

Kagome blinked, a traitorous smile flickering across her face before she could stop it. "But wait," she whispered, leaning after him, "you don't have my number." Inuyasha didn't pause, didn't look back. He strode up the lecture hall steps and vanished through the heavy exit doors without a backward glance.

•••

Later that evening, Kagome sat perched on the cold concrete steps leading into her dorm, swallowed by an oversized gray hoodie and loose gray sweatpants. She’d deliberately chosen comfort over anything remotely suggestive.

The rumble of a motorcycle engine cut through the twilight quiet, growing louder until a sleek black machine slid to a stop right beside her. Inuyasha lifted the visor on his helmet, revealing those intense golden eyes. He scanned her shapeless outfit slowly, a silent appraisal. Kagome lifted her chin, meeting his gaze with a deliberately wry smile.

He stared for a few long seconds. "You dress up for me?" he finally asked.

"No," Kagome stated flatly, her voice carrying easily over the engine's idle thrum. "I didn't have to. Because this," she gestured vaguely between them and the bike, "is not a date."

Inuyasha didn't react to the declaration. "Well," he countered smoothly, "I hope you're hungry." With a casual flick of his wrist, he tossed a spare helmet towards her lap.

Kagome caught it reflexively against her thighs. "No," she said firmly, pushing it away. "No, I don't need this. Because I am not getting on that thing." She tossed the helmet back towards him.

He caught it effortlessly, his expression impassive. "Yeah," he stated, his voice low and certain, "you are." He tossed it back.

Kagome snatched the helmet from the air. "Do you know the statistics," she demanded, her voice rising slightly, "of motorcycles and accidents?" She threw it back at him. "No. I'm not getting on that thing."

He caught it again, his golden eyes holding hers. "Yeah," he repeated, unwavering, "you are." He tossed it back towards her. She intercepted it mid-air and hurled it back immediately. He caught it, a slow, infuriating smirk spreading across his face. "I can do this all night," he chuckled, the sound vibrating beneath the helmet's shell.

Kagome stared at him, her jaw tight. The helmet felt heavy and ridiculous in her hands. His utter confidence grated against her resolve like sandpaper. She glanced at the sleek, black machine, then back at his unblinking gaze. A long sigh escaped her lips as she stood abruptly.

"Fine," she snapped, the word sharp and final.

•••

They found themselves at a lone food cart glowing under a buzzing streetlamp. The scent of grilled meat and spices cut through the cool evening air. Kagome ordered a massive carne asada burrito; Inuyasha mirrored her choice without hesitation.

He scanned his card with a quick tap, nodding at the vendor. "Thanks, man." As they stepped away from the cart's warmth, Kagome immediately held out a crumpled ten-dollar bill. Inuyasha stared at it, then slowly plucked the cash from her fingers. "You're really not gonna let me buy you dinner?" His voice was flat, golden eyes narrowed in the dim light.

"No," Kagome stated firmly, peeling back the foil wrapper. "This isn't a date." She punctuated the declaration by taking an enormous, defiant bite of her burrito. Sauce threatened to escape the corners of her mouth as they started walking down the deserted sidewalk, the rhythmic thump of her sneakers echoing against the pavement.

Inuyasha kept pace beside her, his own burrito untouched. "Yeah," he replied, his voice dry as dust. "I'm aware. You've said that twice now." He glanced sideways at her shapeless gray sweatshirt swallowing her frame.

Kagome swallowed her mouthful, wiping sauce from her chin with the back of her hand. "Oh," she said, her tone deliberately airy‚ "you noticed."

Inuyasha took a slow bite of his own burrito, his gaze fixed ahead on the darkened street. "Mm-hmm," he rumbled around the food. "That," he gestured vaguely at her with his wrapped burrito, "and the outfit." His golden eyes flicked sideways, assessing her oversized sweatshirt. "Which screams 'I detest Inuyasha'."

Kagome swallowed her bite, wiping sauce from her chin. "I don't detest you," she corrected, her voice crisp. "I just don't like being a foregone conclusion to one of the many, many, many notches on your bedpost."

Inuyasha's lips curved into a slow, appreciative smirk. "Oh," he murmured, golden eyes glinting under the streetlight. "You're smart. I like that."

Kagome took another defiant bite, sauce glistening on her lip. "Something you're probably not used to in a woman‚" she countered, her voice muffled but sharp.

Inuyasha let out a low groan, running a hand through his hair. "Ugh," he grumbled, the sound rough with frustration. "I'm strikin' out." He lifted his hands, palms facing her in mock surrender. "Alright. I surrender." His golden eyes locked onto her brown ones. "We can at least be friends."

Kagome swallowed her bite, wiping her mouth with the foil wrapper. "Friends," she stated firmly. "But with no benefits." She held his gaze, her expression unwavering.

Inuyasha paused, the streetlight catching the sharp angles of his face. After a beat, he nodded slowly. "We are not sleeping together." His voice was low, deliberate. "I won't even think about the benefits..." He trailed off, a ghost of his earlier smirk touching his lips. "...unless you want me to."

Kagome shook her head, an unconscious smile tugging at her lips despite herself. "No," she said firmly, though her eyes held a flicker of amusement. "No, that definitely can't happen. So we can stay friends." She crumpled her foil wrapper into a tight ball.

Inuyasha watched her, his expression unreadable. "Friends..." he echoed slowly, drawing the word out like testing its weight. He took one last deliberate bite of his burrito, chewed, swallowed, then crushed his own wrapper.

They walked in silence to a nearby overflowing trashcan, tossing their foil in unison. He scanned the quiet street, nodding towards a distant cluster of lights. "Been comin' to this place for years," he said, his voice softer now. "Family lives only three miles that way."

Kagome nudged his arm playfully. "Aww," she teased, a genuine grin breaking through her earlier defenses. "Couldn't stay too far away from your mommy?" She expected a gruff retort, maybe a shove.

Inuyasha shook his head slowly, his gaze distant under the streetlight. "No," he murmured, his voice losing its usual edge. "That's not it."

Kagome pressed on, oblivious, "Was her mac and cheese that good?"

He took a slow breath. "Well," he said, the word hanging heavy in the cool air. "She's dead."

Kagome giggled, nudging him again. "Shut up!" When he just looked at her, the usual smirk absent, his golden eyes strangely flat, her grin faltered. "Wait... are you serious?" He offered a small, wry smile that didn't reach his eyes. Her own smile vanished instantly. "Oh my god," she breathed, hand flying to her mouth. "I am such an asshole. I am so sorry. I feel horrible."

Inuyasha slid his right arm loosely around her shoulders, pulling her slightly closer as they kept walking down the dim sidewalk. He shook his head slowly, the ghost of that wry smile still touching his lips. "It's okay," he murmured, his voice low and surprisingly gentle. "It's okay. I was only three." The simple words hung heavy in the cool night air.

Kagome stiffened instantly under the unexpected weight and warmth of his arm. After a beat of stunned silence, she pushed firmly against his forearm, ducking out from under his grasp.

"Okay," she stated, her voice regaining its sharp edge, though her cheeks still burned with residual embarrassment. "I am not that sorry. Get your hand off of me." She took a deliberate step sideways, putting some space between them.

He stuffed his hands deep into his jacket pockets, the leather creaking softly. "Right," he muttered, staring straight ahead at the darkened sidewalk.

Kagome glanced sideways at his profile, the streetlight carving sharp shadows under his cheekbones. "How's your dad?" she asked cautiously.

Inuyasha snorted softly. "He's still alive," he replied, his voice regaining its usual dry rasp. "So you can make fun of him." Kagome couldn't help a small, relieved chuckle escaping. "He's a good man," Inuyasha continued, his tone softening almost imperceptibly. "Raised five boys all on his own."

Kagome’s head snapped to him, her eyes widening. "Five Takahashi brothers?" she breathed.

Inuyasha nodded, a faint smirk returning as he kicked a loose pebble down the sidewalk. "Yeah. You wanna get good at fighting? Having four older brothers beat your ass daily is a damn good way to start." The streetlight caught the hard line of his jaw as he spoke, shadows deepening beneath his cheekbones.

She frowned, studying his profile. "But why do it?" Her voice softened, genuine curiosity cutting through the earlier tension. "The fighting, I mean."

Inuyasha shrugged, leather jacket creaking. "College ain't cheap." He glanced sideways at her, golden eyes gleaming. "Fighting’s a good way to make money. Fast."

Kagome shook her head slowly. "It just seems... unnecessarily risky."

Inuyasha nudged her shoulder with his, a teasing glint in his golden eyes. "Why? You worried about me?"

Kagome smiled despite herself and shook her head, the streetlight catching the soft curve of her lips. "Not even in the slightest," she countered, nudging his shoulder back with deliberate lightness. The brief contact sent an unexpected warmth through her sleeve, quickly dismissed.

He chuckled, low and rough. "So what's your story?" he pressed, golden eyes scanning her face.

She shrugged nonchalantly, pulling her phone from her sweater pocket to check the time. "Just your average girl from an ordinary town." She slid the phone back in, fingers brushing the worn fabric.

Inuyasha tilted his head. "Mom and dad?"

Kagome nodded. "One of each."

He snorted softly. "Wow. You're a wealth of information."

She met his gaze evenly. "Well, I can't give away all the goods on one night."

His smirk returned. "Most do," he countered smoothly. "And actually enjoy it."

Without another word, Kagome broke into a light jog toward a white van idling at the curb, its "CAMPUS RIDESHARE" sign glowing under the streetlight. She flung open the back door.

"Are you seriously leaving?" Inuyasha called after her, voice sharp against the quiet street.

Kagome paused halfway into the van's open door, silhouetted by its interior light. "Dinner's over!" she called back, her grin bright and triumphant.

"We just got started!" he protested, his voice rough-edged.

Kagome grinned wider, the van's interior light catching the playful spark in her eyes. "Goodnight, Inuyasha!" she called out, her voice bright and final.

She slid the door shut with a decisive thunk, sealing herself inside the sterile glow of the van. Through the tinted window, she saw him standing frozen on the sidewalk, a lone figure silhouetted by the distant streetlamp, hands shoved deep into his pockets. The van pulled away smoothly, leaving him shrinking rapidly in the rearview mirror. She slumped against the cool vinyl seat, letting out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. A strange mix of exhilaration and exhaustion washed over her. The lingering scent of grilled meat clung faintly to her sweatshirt, mingling oddly with the van's pine-scented air freshener.

Kagome was jogging across campus, the rhythmic slap of her sneakers against pavement fading as she slowed to check her watch in a patch of sun-warmed grass. A bright orange frisbee landed with a soft thwump inches from her feet.

"Little help?" a distant voice called. She turned, spotted a group waving near the quad, and bent to scoop it up.

Without looking, she pivoted and tossed it back hard—just as a guy walked directly into its path. It struck him squarely between the legs with a hollow thud. He gasped, "Oh!" doubling over instantly, hands clutching himself as he crumpled to the grass in a tight fetal curl, groaning through clenched teeth.

Kagome gasped, "Oh god!" She darted to him, eyes wide. "He's fine!" she yelled toward the frisbee group, waving a dismissive hand. Kneeling, she patted his shoulder. "It's okay, it's okay!" The guy groaned louder, face buried in the grass. "Are you okay?" she pressed.

He managed a strained, "I-I'm fine," and slowly pushed himself up, wincing.

She gripped his arm to steady him. "I'm so sorry!" He stood hunched, one hand pressed low against his abdomen. "You're so cute," she blurted, noting the tears glistening in his eyes. "And you're crying."

He swiped hastily at his cheeks. "I'm not. It's the wind." After a shaky breath, he rasped, "How long have you been captain of the frisbee club?"

Kagome laughed, hand still on his shoulder. "Oh, no no no, I'm not—"

He waved her off weakly. "Joke. It was a joke." Extending a trembling hand, he added, "I'm Hojo."

She shook it firmly. "Hi, I'm Kagome."

He took a tentative step, grimacing. "I-I’m gonna go. I'm gonna wobble."

Kagome nodded sympathetically. "You should put some ice on your balls."

Hojo paused, meeting her gaze with a pained half-smile. "You should put some ice on my balls." She chuckled softly. "Okay." He shuffled away, muttering, "Yeah, I'm gonna go."

Kagome called after him, "It was really nice to meet you, Hojo!"

Just then, a stray soccer ball slammed into Hojo's ankle. He stumbled sideways with a sharp gasp. Kagome winced. Hojo steadied himself, shooting a glare toward the apologetic players nearby. "Thanks, man," he grumbled.

Kagome tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, watching him hobble away. "Be careful!" she yelled.

•••

Later that day‚ after her final class, Kagome stood beneath the lukewarm shower spray, scrubbing her face vigorously. Suddenly, the water sputtered and died mid-lather. She squinted against the sting of soap, blindly smacking the faucet handle.

"Ow!" she hissed as suds burned her eye. "Hey! Can someone turn the water back on?!"

Silence answered her. With a frustrated sigh, she groped for a towel, wiped her stinging eye, and stumbled out. She yanked on faded gray sweats, an oversized university hoodie, and jammed a hat over her wet, tangled hair before grabbing her overnight bag.

•••

In Miroku's kitchen, Kagome dumped her bag on the linoleum. "So," she announced, "the RA said we're gonna be without water for 24 hours. So it’ll be for just one night." She eyed Sango warily. "Are you sure Miroku's cool with this?"

Sango beamed, calling over her shoulder, "Hey! Kagome's staying over!"

Miroku wandered from the hall into the living room directly adjacent to the kitchen, tossing textbooks into an already overflowing backpack slung over one shoulder. "Just stay out of Inuyasha’s room, alright?" he said casually, not looking up.

Kagome froze mid-reach for her bag. "What?" Her gaze snapped from Miroku to Sango. "You didn't tell me that Inuyasha lives here." Her voice was tight.

Sango blinked. "You don't remember? I told you."

Kagome bent down, snatched her bag strap, and turned sharply toward the front door. "Nope. I'm not staying here." She strode forward, dragging Sango, who clung to her arm.

"No, no!" Sango protested, digging her heels in. "Kagome, I promise you won't see him! He's practically never even here!" She tugged Kagome back forcefully, wrapping her arms around her in a tight hug. "You won't even know he exists tonight. Please? It'll be so fun!" She glanced over Kagome's shoulder. "Miroku, tell her!"

Miroku shrugged, slinging his backpack higher. "He won't care, Kagome. He likes you."

Kagome wrenched herself free from Sango's embrace. "He doesn't know me," she countered flatly.

"He likes you," Sango said, bouncing on her toes, eyes sparkling. "We're gonna have a sleepover!" she declared, grabbing Kagome's arm again. "So fun! We'll make s'mores!" Before Kagome could protest further, Sango danced around her, heading for the front door. "’Kay, let's go!" she chirped to Miroku.

Miroku shouldered his heavy book bag, nodding. "Alright," he murmured, following Sango toward the exit without a backward glance.

Kagome stared at their retreating backs, the front door swinging shut behind them with a soft click. "Bye," she muttered flatly over her shoulder, the word hanging in the sudden silence of the empty apartment.

•••

Hours later, Kagome slumped at the bar table facing the kitchen, her notes spread out in a chaotic sprawl. The sharp crunch of Doritos echoed loudly in the quiet apartment as she munched mechanically. Her earbuds were firmly lodged in her ears, piping her father’s strained voice directly into her skull: "Kagome, babe, it's Dad. Where'd you go? Could you... return the call? Or at least text me back?" 

She sighed, jabbing her pen into her textbook margin. A faint creak, sharp and rhythmic, pierced the muffled soundscape. Kagome paused mid-crunch. She tugged out one earbud. The creaking intensified, unmistakable now—wooden bed frame protesting under urgent movement. She set the earbud down slowly, the chip bag forgotten. Rising silently, she padded across the cool linoleum toward the darkened hallway.

The noise grew louder, punctuated now by low, rhythmic gasps and a woman’s breathy moans in a language Kagome didn’t recognize—soft, pleading syllables. She halted before the last door on the right, left slightly ajar. Through the narrow crack, she glimpsed tangled sheets, a bare leg hooked high over a muscular hip. Her breath caught. The woman arched violently, throwing her head back off the mattress with a sharp cry, dark hair spilling. Above her, Inuyasha drove forward, his torso slick with sweat, muscles corded and gleaming under the dim bedroom light. His hips snapped relentlessly, burying himself deep. Then his head lifted. Golden eyes, sharp and unblinking, locked directly onto Kagome’s through the gap in the door.

Kagome stumbled backward, slamming the door shut with a force that rattled the frame. "Shit!" she hissed, the word tearing from her throat. "Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit!" She whirled, sprinting down the hallway, bare feet slapping against the cold linoleum.

Moments later‚ Kagome hunched back over her scattered notes at the kitchen bar‚ her fingers trembling as she tried to grip her pen. The frantic scribbling did nothing to erase the searing image burned onto her retinas. A door down the hall clicked open‚ then shut firmly. Footsteps‚ light and quick‚ approached on the linoleum. Kagome kept her head down‚ pretending intense focus on Nash equilibria‚ her knuckles white around the pen.

A cool‚ manicured hand touched her shoulder. Kagome turned her head sharply. The woman stood beside her‚ impossibly tall and sleek in a simple black dress‚ her dark hair still slightly mussed. Her eyes were dark‚ assessing.

"Excuse-moi?" she asked‚ her voice low and accented. She held out a small‚ folded slip of paper. "Pour lui‚" she added‚ nodding towards the hallway‚ her expression unreadable.

Kagome understood the gist—for him. She nodded‚ swallowing. "Sure." The woman offered a faint‚ enigmatic smile‚ turned‚ and walked silently out the front door‚ leaving Kagome alone with the note clutched in her fingers.

Kagome unfolded the paper. A phone number‚ written in a looping‚ elegant hand. She stared at it‚ then slowly lifted her gaze down the dim hallway‚ towards the open door. The silence felt thick‚ charged. She slid off the stool‚ her bare feet soundless on the cool floor. Step by cautious step‚ she crept down the hall‚ pausing just before the doorway. Peering cautiously around the frame‚ she scanned the room—rumpled sheets‚ discarded clothes‚ but empty. He wasn't there. Relief warred with a strange‚ prickling disappointment.

She turned‚ ready to retreat‚ but stopped cold. She let out a sharp gasp‚ stumbling back a step. "Jesus!" she breathed‚ heart hammering against her ribs.

Inuyasha stood leaning casually against the hallway wall‚ wearing only a gray tank top and loose shorts‚ a faint smirk played on his lips as he watched Kagome jump back‚ her hand flying to her chest. "Enjoy the show?" he asked‚ his voice a low rumble that echoed slightly in the confined space.

Kagome glared‚ her cheeks flushing hot. "You scared the crap out of me!" she snapped‚ the words sharp in the quiet apartment. He pushed off the wall‚ walking past her toward the kitchen without a backward glance. She hesitated‚ then followed‚ her bare feet padding softly on the linoleum. He paused at the open refrigerator door‚ bathed in its cool light‚ and glanced back over his shoulder.

"You know‚" he said thoughtfully‚ pulling out a bottle of water‚ "that's not a very attractive idiom once you stop and think about it." He twisted the cap off with a sharp crack.

Kagome climbed back onto the bar stool‚ crossing her arms tightly. "Because in your sexist universe‚ women don't actually defecate?" she retorted‚ her voice dripping with sarcasm.

He turned‚ shutting the fridge door with a soft thud‚ a slow smirk spreading across his face. "Wow‚" he murmured‚ taking a deliberate sip of water‚ his golden eyes fixed on her. "That's a perfect word for someone like you." He leaned back against the countertop‚ studying her. "Did you know the saying used to be 'bajeesus' outta me?"

Kagome ignored the question‚ her gaze dropping to the crumpled slip of paper still clutched in her hand. She unfolded it‚ smoothed it flat against the worn wood of the bar table‚ and held it out towards him.

"Your... friend..." she said‚ the word clipped‚ "...gave this to me to give to you."

Inuyasha glanced down‚ his expression utterly indifferent. He reached out‚ plucked the note from her fingers‚ glanced at the looping digits‚ and without a flicker of hesitation‚ crumpled it into a tight ball. With a casual flick of his wrist‚ he tossed it towards the kitchen trash can. It bounced off the rim‚ landing silently on the linoleum floor.

Kagome stared‚ her jaw slackening slightly. "What?" she breathed‚ disbelief sharpening her voice. "The woman you just... you just had sex with‚ gives you her number‚ and you just... throw it away?" She gestured sharply towards the discarded paper ball‚ her eyes wide and incredulous.

Inuyasha shrugged‚ taking another slow sip of water‚ his gaze steady on hers. "That's not her leaving her number‚" he stated‚ his voice flat‚ almost bored. "That's her marking her territory." He tilted his head‚ golden eyes glinting under the kitchen light.

Kagome leaned forward‚ elbows digging into the worn wood. "Well then maybe you shouldn't have sex with her‚" she retorted‚ her voice tight with disgust.

Inuyasha drained the last of his water‚ setting the bottle down with a decisive thunk. "I don't remember promising her a thing." His tone was matter-of-fact‚ utterly devoid of remorse.

Kagome leaned back‚ crossing her arms tighter. "Wow‚" she breathed‚ her voice thick with disdain. "You embody everything that is wrong with your gender." The words hung sharp and heavy in the small kitchen.

Inuyasha didn't flinch. He simply shrugged‚ his expression cool‚ detached. "She's an adult‚ I'm an adult‚" he stated‚ his voice flat‚ factual. "It was consensual." He reached for his phone lying beside the discarded water bottle‚ thumbed it awake‚ and scrolled briefly. Without a word‚ he turned the screen toward Kagome‚ holding it steady. "Look at this."

Kagome leaned forward slightly‚ squinting at the bright display. Her eyes scanned the text‚ and she read aloud‚ her voice laced with disbelief‚ "'Consent date'."

Inuyasha nodded once‚ pocketing the phone. "You can never be too careful nowadays." His tone was matter-of-fact‚ devoid of apology.

Kagome stared at him‚ her fingers curling into her palms. "How many women do you have contracts with?" she asked‚ her voice low and tight.

Inuyasha shrugged‚ leaning back against the countertop. "No idea‚" he said casually‚ crossing his arms over his chest. "I'm a quality guy‚ not quantity." The smirk played on his lips again‚ arrogant and effortless.

Kagome recoiled‚ her nose wrinkling in disgust. "Ugh‚" she groaned‚ pressing a hand to her stomach. "I'm gonna throw up." She glared at him‚ her knuckles white where she gripped the edge of the bar table.

Inuyasha leaned over the counter‚ invading her space‚ the faint scent of sweat and sex still clinging to him mixing oddly with the cool air. "Well‚" he murmured‚ his voice dropping low‚ "my bedroom's down the hall." His golden eyes held hers‚ unblinking. "And the bed is all yours if you wanna crash." He gestured vaguely towards the hallway.

Kagome recoiled‚ pressing her back against the bar stool. "I'm not gonna sleep in your bed‚" she hissed‚ her disgust tangible.

"Why?" he asked‚ "no one but me sleeps in my bed." He straightened‚ crossing his arms again‚ a hint of possessiveness edging his tone. "My bed is sacred ground."

Kagome snorted‚ pushing her textbook away. "Well then why would I be allowed in your bed?" The question hung heavy‚ laced with suspicion.

Inuyasha leaned closer‚ his golden eyes sharpening. "Are you planning on having sex with me tonight?" His voice dropped low‚ challenging.

Kagome stared back‚ her jaw tightening. "No‚" she said slowly‚ the word deliberate and cold.

Inuyasha straightened‚ snatched a plump strawberry from the bowl Kagome hadn't noticed on the counter‚ dipped it swiftly into a tub of whipped cream beside it‚ and before Kagome could react‚ shoved it forcefully between her lips.

"Then it's settled‚" he declared‚ his voice flat and final. He turned on his heel‚ walking away towards the hallway without a backward glance‚ a faint‚ infuriating smirk playing on his lips.

Kagome froze‚ stunned‚ the cool berry and sickly-sweet cream filling her mouth. She glared at his retreating back‚ her disgust warring with sheer disbelief. With deliberate‚ angry precision‚ she bit down hard‚ severing the strawberry cleanly. She pulled the green leafy top from her mouth and tossed it to the trash. She chewed the remaining fruit mechanically‚ the sweetness cloying and unpleasant‚ her eyes fixed on him as he disappeared into the shadows of the hallway‚ utterly confused by his audacity and repulsed by his entire being.

•••

About an hour later‚ Kagome sat criss-cross on Inuyasha's bed‚ her biology notes fanned out across the mattress like a desperate paper fan. Her yellow highlighter tapped a frantic rhythm against the page detailing mitochondrial DNA.

Inuyasha strode in‚ pausing just inside the doorway. "Wow‚" he remarked‚ his voice dry‚ "make yourself at home."

Kagome glanced up‚ startled. "Sorry‚" she mumbled‚ gesturing helplessly at her scattered textbooks. "I just have a 10:00 AM bio test to cram for‚ but I can move back to the kitchen."

He waved a dismissive hand as he walked past the bed towards his dresser. "Nah‚ you're fine. Stay where you are. Don't be silly." He bent down to untie his sneakers.

Kagome offered a small‚ sincere smile. "Thank you."

Inuyasha straightened up‚ tossing his sneaker aside. "Do you want me to make you some tea or something?"

Kagome shook her head without looking up from her notes. "No‚ but um..." She clicked her yellow highlighter uselessly. "My highlighter just died. Can I borrow one?"

Inuyasha nodded‚ wrestling with his other sneaker lace. "Oh yeah‚ check out the top drawer." He jerked his chin toward the bedside table beside her. Kagome swung her legs off the bed and reached for the small wooden drawer handle. Inuyasha suddenly straightened‚ eyes widening. "Wait‚ um—"

Too late. Kagome pulled the drawer open. Instead of pens or highlighters‚ it was packed tight with foil-wrapped condoms in various colors‚ alongside an assortment of unfamiliar‚ vaguely intimidating silicone shapes in black‚ purple‚ and neon pink. Kagome blinked‚ then slowly turned her head to look at him‚ one eyebrow arched. "Wow‚" she stated flatly‚ "that's a lot."

Inuyasha straightened fully‚ a faint flush creeping up his neck. He cleared his throat. "Is practicing safe sex a crime?" he asked‚ attempting a chuckle that came out strained.

Kagome ignored him‚ her expression unreadable as she reached into the overflowing drawer. Her fingers bypassed the foil squares and closed around a sleek‚ white and pink plastic object shaped vaguely like a pen. She held it up‚ turning it slowly in the dim light. "What's this?" she asked‚ her voice flat.

"That," he stated‚ his voice suddenly tight‚ "is not a highlighter‚ I'll tell you that." Before he could elaborate‚ Kagome dropped the object onto the rumpled sheets beside her notes. It landed with a soft thud‚ then immediately began vibrating‚ buzzing insistently against the fabric.

Kagome recoiled slightly‚ then leaned forward again‚ her expression a mask of morbid curiosity. She reached back into the drawer‚ bypassing the condoms‚ and pulled out a smooth‚ blue silicone object with a thick white string dangling from one end. She held it up‚ turning it slowly. "Is this a yo-yo?" she asked‚ her tone flat‚ almost clinical.

Inuyasha scratched the back of his neck‚ avoiding her gaze. "No‚" he muttered‚ his voice tight with embarrassment‚ "definitely not." He cleared his throat again‚ louder this time. "Alright‚ this is awkward‚" he announced abruptly‚ turning on his heel. "I'm gonna go... shower." He practically bolted from the room‚ leaving Kagome alone amidst the vibrating toy and the overflowing drawer.

Kagome stared at the buzzing object on the bedspread like it was radioactive. With a shudder of pure disgust‚ she used the edge of her biology textbook to nudge it and the blue toy away from her notes‚ sending them tumbling onto the floor. Her eyes darted frantically around the bed. Spotting her travel-sized bottle of antibacterial hand sanitizer beside her‚ she snatched it up. She sprayed a thick‚ stinging cloud onto her palms‚ rubbing them together furiously until the alcohol scent overpowered the lingering musk in the air. Not satisfied‚ she grabbed the bottle again and began spraying in wide‚ frantic arcs – over her scattered notes‚ the open drawer brimming with silicone‚ the very sheets she sat on‚ even the wooden drawer handle she’d touched. Her nose was wrinkled‚ her lips pressed into a thin‚ pale line of utter revulsion.

•••

About twenty minutes later‚ Inuyasha emerged from the steamy hall bathroom‚ a worn gray towel knotted loosely around his hips. Droplets of water still glistened on his shoulders and chest as he padded barefoot down the dim hallway‚ whistling a tuneless‚ off-key melody. The apartment was quiet‚ save for the low hum of the refrigerator. He pushed open his bedroom door‚ expecting to find Kagome buried in her books‚ but paused mid-step. She was curled on one side, beneath the blankets‚ her cheek pressed against her hands on the pillow. He made his way to the dresser‚ moving quietly‚ though the old wooden floorboards creaked faintly under his weight. He pulled open the top drawer‚ rifling through folded t-shirts and sweatpants.

Kagome‚ half asleep‚ opened her eyes to slits. She stayed perfectly still‚ breath shallow‚ as Inuyasha stretched his arms high above his head. The muscles in his broad back flexed and rippled under smooth‚ tanned skin‚ water droplets tracing paths down the intricate lines of his tattoos before vanishing into the towel knotted low on his hips. He hooked his thumbs casually into the towel's edge. It dropped silently to the floor.

Kagome’s eyes widened fully now‚ fixed unblinkingly on the powerful curve of his ass and the shadowed glimpse she caught between his legs from behind. He bent slightly to grab a pair of gray sweatpants from the drawer‚ the movement only emphasizing the taut muscle. Kagome couldn't look away‚ her gaze tracing the water-slicked lines of his body‚ a strange heat prickling her cheeks. Then he straightened and began to turn.

Kagome slammed her eyes shut‚ burying her face deep into the pillow with a muffled gasp‚ her body rigid. She forced her breathing into a slow‚ steady rhythm‚ feigning deep sleep. She heard the soft pad of his bare feet on the floorboards‚ moving closer to the bed.

Inuyasha watched her with an unreadable expression as he made his way to the other side of the bed. The mattress dipped under his weight as he climbed beneath the heavy blanket right beside her, the faint scent of his soap cutting through the lingering scent of antibacterial spray. He laid on his back, his right arm tucked behind his head as he sighed—a long, slow exhalation that seemed to release tension from his shoulders.

Kagome lay frozen, her eyes wide and unblinking as they stared at the pale expanse of the bedroom wall. Her heart hammered against her ribs like a frantic bird trapped in a cage, each beat echoing in the silence that stretched between them. She could feel the heat radiating from his body mere inches away, the dip of the mattress tilting her slightly towards him. The clean, soapy scent of him—cedar and something sharp—clashed violently with the scent of antibacterial spray clinging to the sheets. She held her breath, every muscle locked tight, terrified the slightest twitch would betray her wakefulness.

Slowly, deliberately, she forced her eyelids to drift shut, mimicking the deep, rhythmic breathing of sleep. Her mind raced—images of the discarded condom drawer, the buzzing toy, the woman’s dark, assessing eyes, and now, the stark, water-slicked lines of his bare back and the shadowed glimpse she hadn’t meant to see. Disgust warred with a treacherous, unwelcome flicker of something else entirely, a heat low in her belly that felt like betrayal. She focused on the imagined hum of the refrigerator in the other room, a distant, grounding drone.

Gradually, the frantic tempo of her pulse began to ease, the rigid tension in her shoulders unknotting strand by painful strand. The warmth of the blanket, the sheer exhaustion from the day’s shocks and the late-night cramming, finally began to pull her under, dragging her consciousness down into a thick, velvety darkness.