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He sat with his back pressed against the rough wall, a mere few feet from the entry of Kaede’s hut, with even less space from a certain miko on his right. Inuyasha claimed this particular spot along the edge, the perfect place to reside while he watched over her, months ago when they began their journey for shards of the Shikon Jewel. Glancing around the well lit hut, he determined they were safe for the evening, his posture relaxing slightly at the thought, though he would remain on guard while they slept through the night.
The old woman was mending some type of fabric in the corner, and the kit was coloring something that required his full attention at her side. On the other side of the fire, the demon slayer was brushing her companion’s fur, while the monk and his Kagome chatted about something he wasn’t all that interested in. With one ear trained on the door and the other on his favorite miko’s conversation, he almost missed the muted sounds of flurries falling from the sky. Damn, I was hopin’ the snow would hold off until tomorrow.
“So, your family celebrates this holiday called “Kriss-mes” every year?” The monk tilted his head, indigo eyes bright as he took in every word and Inuyasha soon found himself just as interested in this Kriss-mes of hers.
“It’s called Christmas.” Kagome stated, her smile breathtaking, and Inuyasha had to force himself to look away from her, choosing to focus on the far wall instead. “And yes! My family will sit around in the morning, gifting presents to each other, and then after we spend time together. Usually it’s watching a movie or playing a game, always with our favorite drinks. My mama makes the best hot chocolate.” Gifts? Like clothes and stuff? Hot chocolate? Why would chocolate be hot? Before he could ask her what all that stuff was, the runt leapt to his feet.
“Could we do something like that, ‘Gome?” Shippo asked excitedly, unable to stop himself from bouncing from one foot to another.
“I think that would be a great idea! We could do something like that here the night before, and I’ll even see if I can bring some of mama’s dishes.” She clapped her hands together and he smirked, her joy contagious enough to bring a smile even to his face. The wench could find joy over a butterfly and I would never get tired of seeing it.
“That’s if Inuyasha isn’t a stick in the mud.” Shippo snickered from across the hut and safely out of hitting distance.
“Oi, runt, we can do whatever Kagome wants.” He waved nonchalantly, channeling his older brother’s mannerisms. She could ask me to dive head first off a cliff and I would probably do it just because she wanted me to. Deciding he was better off keeping that particular thought in his head, he stood quickly and strode outside, an uncomfortable feeling pooling into the pit of his stomach.
A flash of a memory appeared across his vision, Inuyasha desperate to push it back into that little box and seal it shut. Right now was not the time to remember spending winter nights in his mother's arms as a pup, the two of them talking about anything and everything as the snow blanketed the earth. Since Mother died, I haven't found a place that felt like that since. Am I doomed to keep trying to carve out a place for me in this world? And how the hell am I supposed to do that when all I have is the clothes on my back?
He leaned on a wooden support, crossing his arms tight across his chest as he silently watched the snow falling heavier, briefly wondering just how much would stick when Kagome joined him a few minutes later. Inhaling, he relished in her calming scent, feeling himself settle slightly while also bracing for the onslaught of questions he knew she would have. When does she not want to talk?
“Are you alright?” Her voice barely above a whisper and he gave her a soft smile, one he only reserved for her in their private moments. How could he explain to her that while her family’s traditions were nice and all, he’s never had a place in this world, much less a home after his mother died, so all of this was new to him and that included everything he felt about her ? In all honesty, he didn’t know how to handle other people wanting to include him in things or welcome him into their home for things like this.
He gave her a noncommittal grunt and when she didn’t move to go back inside, he knew his wench wasn’t going to leave well enough alone. Glancing down, he found her watching the village, her stormy eyes reflecting the snowfall before them and her abundant happiness clear in her gaze. At that moment, he wasn’t sure he had ever seen someone more beautiful.
“That isn’t an answer, Inuyasha.” Might as well get this over with, rip the bandage off as she says.
“I’m fine, Kagome.” He arched his brow, his tone teasing and he held back a chuckle when she rolled her eyes.
“We don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do and if that means Christmas, then that’s okay. I just thought it would be nice to include all the people I care about in something that’s important to me.” Her brows furrowed, her delicate hands coming up to rub her arms. Of course she would wear her school uniform in this weather and decide to only wearing a too thin scarf to stay warm. Idiot. Though, normally I enjoy her bare legs when they’re wrapped around my… Shit, I’m turning into the lecher. Sighing, he shrugged off his fire rat and dropped it to her shoulders, adjusting her scarf around her neck as she slipped her arms through, humming happily.
Smile returning to her face, Inuyasha moved back to his previous position, silence falling upon them once more. I know she cares about everyone, about me, but I have nothing to give to her. Kagome is the most important person in my life and I wouldn't even know where to begin to even get something she might like.
A soft gasp escaped her lips and he frowned, looking down to see if he could find out just what caught her attention. She was staring at his chest, in all reality it took him a moment to figure out she was focused on something around his neck. Shit, the locket. He swiftly tucked it under his under kosode, refusing to comment on the thing, but her cheeks were flushed and Inuyasha doubted it was from the cold.
“Inuyasha?” Please, for kami’s sake, don’t bring it up. I can’t think of a good enough excuse to tell her why I’m still wearing it.
“What?”
“I know none of this is what you’re used to and that you think you’re a worthless half demon, even though you’re not , I want you to be happy. If you think I want gold and silk, then you don’t know me at all. All I want is to remain by your side and for you to be happy in life, okay?” Damn, she knows me too well. I don’t know how I ever thought I could hide anything from her. Letting his arms drop, he simply nodded, a little relieved she didn’t bring up that particular gift.
“In fact, I was going to ask if you’d like to come with me to celebrate Christmas morning with my family?”
He couldn’t stop himself. His mind went blank as he gaped, his mouth open and closing when he couldn’t form the words and Inuyasha was sure he resembled a damn koi fish. She was really inviting him to spend time with her and her family for something so important? He must’ve died and gone to heaven. Collecting himself, he narrowed his eyes, bracing himself for the pity he knew deep down would never actually come. Kagome was too kind-hearted to treat him like that.
“You sure your mama is okay with that? Or your gramps?” He scoffed, “Ya know the old geezer is just gonna throw some type of salt at me and try to purify me with those lame ass ofudas.” She laughed loudly, the sound easing all of his tension and he allowed himself a rare laugh, joining her.
“Careful dog boy, and I might help him with them this time.” She bit her lip, humor glinting in her gaze as he took in her once more flushed cheeks. “And yes, I’m sure she’ll be okay with it. You know they adore you almost as much as I do.”
“Whatever you say, wench.” He turned away, hoping she wouldn’t see his blush, choosing to ignore that last comment. “Come on, let’s get inside before you catch a cold.”
“I know, I know. Weak humans and all that.” She huffed, mimicking his wave earlier and Inuyasha rolled his eyes, admiring the way his robe was wrapped around her body as they turned to head back inside. I think I have an idea of something she might like, but I’ll need to see if her mama can help me out with it.
Kagome had given them ten days to prepare for Christmas while she went home to defeat her final test demons and get supplies for them, which means he had less than that to put together his plan. Sango, Miroku. and Kaede had taken Shippo to the neighboring village, where they were holding their final market day for the season before the snow made it impossible to travel safely. So he took that opportunity to head towards Totosai’s home.
“Oi, old goat, ya in there!?” He gruffed out, clutching a single adamant in his hand, while more filled his pocket. Inuyasha had taken out a few trees in his forest with his adamant barrage earlier, deciding he would cut up some firewood to bring back to the hut when he returned. His diamonds would prove useful in securing payment for the things he wanted to give his friends.
“Inuyasha? What are you doing here?”
“I got somethin’ I need ya to do for me.” Striding past the rising steam and Momo dozing nearby, he found the old man hammering away at some piece of metal, Inuyasha eyeing the odd shape, unsure of whatever he was making.
“And just why should I do that?”
“It’s for Kagome.” He tossed the diamond at him, crossing his arms when the bug eyed demon sent him a curious glance, silently waiting for him to continue, “I know ya like her, so ya ain’t gonna say no. I need you to shape that into a heart for me.”
“Are you finally telling the young miko how you feel, boy?”
“N-no!” He sputtered, his cheeks reddening, “Why in the hell would I tell you anything like that? Can you do the damn thing for me or not?” Fucking shithead.
“Yeah, yeah. I’ll do it for you. It won’t take but the afternoon to get it done. Here,” He handed the hanyou a stick. What the hell? “Draw what shape you want it in the dirt here, just so I’m clear on what you’re asking for.”
Clutching the basket filled with goods Inuyasha had bought for his friends, he dashed through the trees, smiling at the thought of the little diamond nestled against his chest, safely tucked away in a small bag. Kagome said she didn’t want gold or silk, but the way she looked at my locket makes me think she just might like this. Landing in a pile of slush, he grimaced at the feeling of muddy snow between his toes. Fuck, I’m gonna havfta’ wash up before going through the well.
Sniffing the air, he found the lack of moisture in the clouds a good sign, deciding that he could quickly wash his feet in the stream near the village before visiting Kagome's mother. Kagome should still be battling her exam demons, so she’ll never know I was there.
“Inuyasha, this is beautiful! Wherever did you find something like this there?”
“Uh, I made it with my sword.” He muttered, refusing to meet her admiring gaze with his cheeks as red as they were. “Then I had the old- an old friend help shape it. I wa-was wondering if we could do something here to make it into a necklace, li-like this one.” Why the fuck am I suddenly so nervous and stuttering like that Hobo dude back home? Deep down, he knew it was because he was afraid her mother would cast him out, especially at the idea of a hanyou gifting her daughter something so precious and meaningful. Damn these human feelings.
He quickly pulled out the locket Kagome had given him so long ago, allowing her to look closely before tucking it away, where the warm metal sat against his heart.
“Ah, I remember when she bought that. I didn’t know she gave it to you.” Her mother mused, a suspicious glint in her brown eyes making him wary. “Either way, I’m not sure we can have the exact same thing, since this is diamond and that’s gold.”
Ears dropping, he nodded, feeling stupid for trying to put together something beyond his means for Kagome. Taking the heart shaped jewel from her, he turned to head towards the door, Inuyasha trying to rack his brain for something else he could give her.
“Musuko, I didn’t mean to let your hopes down, but I think I have a better idea, if you’ll let me show you?” Kagome’s mother encouraged, setting her hand on his shoulder. Shocked at being called her son, he simply nodded once more. “Come with me. We need to get your ears covered before heading to the store and I’ll explain on the way.”
Ten days seem to pass by in a blur and Inuyasha assumed it was only because he was so focused on helping their friends prepare for the Christmas Kagome was so excited, otherwise he knew he would’ve been doing everything he could to bring back his woman to the feudal era after only three days.
Kagome’s mother had explained what she meant and he found himself even more excited at the idea, which meant that he was now on his way to bring Kagome back to their friends and procure said gift from her mama. Sliding open the door to their home, he inhaled, searching for Kagome’s soothing scent. Finding her and her mother in the kitchen, he headed there.
“Will this be plenty for you and your friends?”
“Yes! I think between this and whatever food they’ve put together, it will be too much.” Kagome’s giggle caused his ears to perk up. She’s in a really good mood. “Oh, you’re here Inuyasha!”
“Oi, you gonna have me carry all of this back through, ain’t ya?” He smirked, teasing when he saw the three large bundles of food, wrapped gifts, and a few things he didn’t know all packed tightly in large bags. He would do all of that, plus carry anything else she needed for her, and they both knew it. Before Kagome could send some witty remarks his way, her mother stepped forward, handing him a small box, leaning in close to whisper in his ear.
“Don’t worry. She’s going to love it.”
Speaking of said ears, he knew they were giving away his stupid emotions by the way they were vibrating atop his head, one trained on Kagome nearby as she watched them. Ignoring her curious looks, he simply slid the box in his robe and scooped up the bags, asking her if she was ready to go.
After a quick round of goodbyes and promises that they will be back before the family woke up in the morning, the two of them were soaring through time and space back to their friends, a comfortable silence between them. Knowing her, it wouldn't last long.
“So, are you going to tell me what that was that Mama gave you?”
“Nope.” He smiled, giving her a lift from the well before clutching their bags, and walking towards Kaede’s without further explanation. Hearing her soft huff as she ran to his side, he had to school his features, so he wouldn’t give anything away. An enticing scent wafted across his nose, the boar meat roasting on a large fire outside the hut making his mouth water.
They soon joined their friends and he went to work helping her unload the bags, snagging the few items he knew were his before heading outside to check on the meat. Judging by the way the sky looked and the heavy scent of moisture in the air, he knew there would be another round of snow before the morning came, silently hoping it wouldn’t be too rough when they returned to Kagome's family.
He found he didn’t hate that idea as much as he thought, the image of holding his woman in his arms to keep her warm filling his mind. Smirking to himself, he listened for his friends, a peaceful feeling coming over him at their excited chatter inside. Is this what it's supposed to feel like? Pushing any negative thoughts to the side, he thoroughly checked the boar to see if it was done and brought it inside, eager to join them.
Patting his stuffed belly, Inuyasha resisted the urge to belch as Kagome’s warm body snuggled up beside him, her laughter soft as everyone watched Shippo open his gifts. Yeah, this is exactly where I should be. Turning his attention towards his friends, he let out a chuckle at the squealing kit when opened a giant box of pocky, Inuyasha momentarily being reminded that Shippo was indeed just a kid.
“Now, don’t eat it all in one day, Shippo.” Kagome warned, the only response was a nod before he ripped open the first box and devoured the first stick. “I give up.” She grumbled, shaking her head, a smile playing on her lips.
“Ya know he heard you. He’s just excited.” Inuyasha gave her a slight nudge, “He’ll come crawling to you later with an upset tummy, begging for your forgiveness.”
“I know, I know.” She smiled wider, so much that her nose scrunched up and he couldn’t stop the thought that she was adorable like this form entering his mind. I’m turning into a big softy. She swiftly sat up, clapping her hands to get everyone’s attention, “Okay, now that everyone has opened their gifts, I say we get ready for some hot chocolate and a game together.”
“Oh, can we play that card game you taught us a few weeks ago?” Kaede inquired, her good eye sparkling at the idea of joining them in a game of poker, Kagome had called it.
“That would be perfect! I can use this time to learn to play better, while keeping a certain monk’s hand from wandering too far.” Sango added, beginning to clear the area for them to make room, keeping on her eyes trained on said monk.
“I’m so misunderstood.” Miroki sighed, and Inuyasha knew he was secretly excited about getting so much time next to the demon slayer for the next few hours. Fiddling with the now fabric wrapped box on his side, he tried to come up with a way to get Kagome to come outside with him so he can give her his gift without nosy humans and demons watching them. However, his miko beat him to the punch.
“While they are setting up, why don’t we go outside? I have something for you.” She spoke softly, her eyes warm as she settled them on him. He nodded, nerves floating about in his stomach and he almost regretted eating so much before. What if she didn’t like it, even though her mother assured me she would? Inhaling, he took in her scent and forced himself to calm down as he snagged her hand, almost dragging her past the doorway, but still close enough she could stay warm. She was still dressed in her school uniform with that flimsy scarf around her neck. Once this is done, I’m keeping her wrapped in my robe until we set foot back into the future.
He faced her, keeping his gift behind his back and found her mirroring his image, their eyes locking. What now? A small, nicely wrapped package was suddenly thrust up in his face, followed by her soft, sweet words that erased any lingering fears he had.
“I had Mama teach me about sewing and embroidering so I could have it personalized for you. I wanted to be able to give you something that reminds you of me on these cold, winter nights.”
He took it from her with shaky hands, their fingers touching as he exchanged his gift with hers.
“Together?” He breathed and she nodded, Inuyasha using his claws to slice through the ribbon surrounding the small box he now held. Eyes wide, he lifted a delicate fabric up, carefully to not snag it, the red coloring almost a perfect match to his fire rat. But what caught his attention the most was the beautiful kanji that spelled out his name in gold lettering along the edge. Something that is mine, with my name on it so no one can ever take it from me? A lump formed in his throat, hot tears threatening to fall from his eyes. He held up the item, instantly recognizing it as a type of scarf, similar to the one Kagome was currently wearing.
“Inuyasha, you-you got this for me?” Oh yeah, she’s opening mine.
“I, um, I made it with Tessaiga,” He began, his words bubbling out before he could stop him, “I went to the old goat to help shape it and then had your mama help me make it into a necklace, I remembered the way you looked at the locket you gave me the other day and thought you might like something like that of your own, even if it doesn’t have our pictures in it. I know you said you didn’t like gold and silks and stuff, but I thought you might like something like this to wear so you know that you have my heart.” Shit, why did I say all that? I sounded like an idiot.
He didn’t have time to take anything back before found himself wrapped in a hug, his arms instantly coming around her waist to bring her closer, Inuyasha pressing his nose to her hair. Eyes widening at the smell of salt, he pulled back, relief filling him when she smiled at him wide, taking his breath away again. She’s only cryin’ tears of happiness, thank the kami.
“It’s beautiful, Inuyasha. Thank you.” She raised herself on her tiptoes and he froze as she pressed her lips to his cheeks, the spot burning under her touch. “I’ll never take it off. Do you, um, like your gift?”
“A scarf with my name on it? I’m the luckiest bastard there ever was.” He chuckled, pulling her back in for a hug, one too quick for his liking before snagging the discarded paper and fabric from the covered porch. “Come on, I’m sure they're waiting for us inside.”
"You just don’t want me catching a cold so you can put off searching for the jewel shards even longer.” She waved her finger at him, though her tone held no heat. He rolled his eyes, giving her his rare smile, before nudging her to go inside. Yeah, she knows me too well. Stepping into the warmth of Kaede’s hut, he allowed his smile to remain on his face as he met his friend’s happy looks before a thought occurred to him. When did it happen? It seems natural that Kagome being beside me is my home.
“Come on, dog boy or you’re not gonna be able to play this round.” Kagome joked, patting the empty spot beside and he laughed, joining her side, something he would never leave for the rest of his existence.