Here is my new story! This has been sitting in the confined space of my computer for quite some time now. I was inspired by the movie however this story's plot is going to be VERY different. Most of my loyal readers (who have read my previous work) know I'm a plot twist and cliffy whore so expect that in this fanfic.

EPIC AUTHOR' S NOTE:

MUST READ BEFORE GOING FURTHER IN THIS STORY:

I DO NOT KNOW the pairing to this Fanfic AND will not know until I have written the chapter that reveals this information to the readers. If you ask, you will be referred to this statement.

This is NOT a Disney Fanfic! The characters will go through real life situations and experience character growth in this story. These situations may make you uncomfortable so be warned.

I plan on this being a "Soap Opera" style fanfic. What that means...you will see many sides of a situation and glimpses into the lives of other characters involved as they all cross paths and interact with the main plot/characters of this story. If you're looking for pure smut or a quick rush through...you ain't finding it here! This is a slow burn. So if you find this isn't right for you...please exit stage left and click the back button now. Have a nice day!

I do not write Author's Notes for my health. Be warned dear children...be warned...Motha has spoken.

This is a pilot chapter. So if you want updates you must review.

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Check my profile for scheduled story update times, disclaimers, my book info, and additional information.

Chapter 1 Pre-heat

"Where are those scallops? They should be here!" The woman yelled wiping the side of a porcelain plate set on the warmer beside her. Her face was sweaty and her hair was piled on top of her head in a messy bun. The roar of stove top burners and the usage of pots, pans and blenders played in a musical together orchestrated by the sound of spoons and whisks moving at alarming speeds in thick batters, creamy bases, and boiling soups. Delicious aromas of sautéed meats, and seasoned vegetables exploded in the fiery hellish kitchen that belonged to the powerhouse woman manning the front while providing tips and tricks to her staff to execute tonight's menu. Her body immediately moved over to another burner shaking a skillet and flipping the meat and herbs inside. Her hands reached over and grabbed a chopped lemon and squeezed it over the chicken sizzling in the pan. Heat swept across her forehead and perspiration appeared causing her to wipe it off with her apron. A chef rushed over and took her spot attending to the poultry dish.

"Make sure you add a bit more olive oil in the bottom of that pan otherwise you'll make another meal, Kit." She spoke patting the tall young demon on his back as his wildly reddish-brown hair covered head nodded and went to do as she said.

A waiter came in taking a few plates but she quickly ran around the counter to inspect them all catching every detail. She nodded, approving the lamb with the balsamic reduction glaze on top and very quickly reached for a few stems of cilantro for garnish to the grilled halibut watching the man take it out into the dining room. She looked up at the clock noticing that they were just an hour before closing time and she smiled with relief.

She ran a tight ship known for her fusion dishes of French and Japanese flair. Her pride and joy was her restaurant that earned full stars and praise from institutions and critics around the world. She took great care in making sure everything that went out received her approval and was prepared as if all the kings in the world was coming to dine at her esteemed restaurant which took months almost a year in advanced to get a table. And if someone was to give up their spot, then it was immediately filled by a loyal patron that helped her find her roots among the competitive sea of chefs in the city.

Her eyes went back to her staff that was working tirelessly but happily to put out the best products they were known for. Momiji and Botan her two prized twin pastry chefs were working very hard to fill in the other areas of the kitchen since they were short staffed. Bankoustu her butcher and meat extraordinaire was apparently beating the tissue out of a steak tenderloin. They moved among organized chaos working together and laughing as they formed their own little pieces of edible art. Every one of her chefs were handpicked by her and tested before her eyes serving only one dish and allowing it to be judged on flavor, difficulty, technique, time, and presentation.

Another plate sat down in front of her waiting for her review and approval. She looked down at the beautifully designed plate and smiled at the man presenting it to her. "Are you flirting with me, Miroku?" She asked suspiciously as she turned the plate around looking at its' beauty.

A brilliantly dill and oregano crusted porkatta roast sat in chopped layers on a puree of English peas, pancetta and quail eggs, finished with shaved truffles. She watched him wink at her before he headed back to his station. "As much as it hurts to decline that offer, I would like to instead trade you for the number of that pastry chef that's supposed to be coming here from Japan." He stated coolly while attending to a base of cream and flour swirling in a pot ready for its transformation into another dish.

"Well you keep putting dishes like that out and I may force her to marry you." She joked before moving to help her temp pastry chef execute a proper crème brulee with a caramelized crown made form sugar. She was very patient with her temp helping the young woman along the way. Kagome quickly worked recalling all the knowledge from her experience at French culinary school and working with the most strict and successful chefs of her time. The woman was shaking in anxiety and Kagome could tell she wouldn't make it under the pressure. But, everyone deserved to finish and make it to the end. She couldn't wait for her good friend Sango to arrive and take the place as her lead pastry chef. The woman was as skilled with making sweet concoctions as she was with throwing knives.

She encouraged her staff to keep going throughout the dinner rush. She moved over to another pot looking down at the red sauce mixture. The sous chef moved out of her way allowing her to look critically at. Her eyes went over to the board where the tickets were coming in and being assigned out loud by a staff member. "Bean cavolo nero and pasta!" She read looking down at it. She pulled out a clean tasting spoon from the side drawer and lowered it into the sauce. She brought the spoon up to her pink lips and blew the heat away before claiming it with her mouth.

The flavor exploded in her mouth and she moaned in ecstasy. The onion, garlic, and chili pepper danced in her mouth together along with the base of freshly made tomato paste from scratch. The spoon stay rested in her mouth before she slowly pulled it out and cleaned off any residue. The spoon hung in her mouth while she reached over to the side and pulled out a few stalks of thyme. Knowingly she tossed it in the mixture and moved out of the way giving two thumbs up clearly unable to say anything. "Who made this!"

"I did, Chef." Spoke the kit as his tall form ran over to his pot that he let simmer while he prepared another dish to go out. His bright green eyes dropped to his soup mixture silently praying nothing was wrong with it. He did not want to feel the wrath of his head chef…again for the rest of the year. He looked at her as she tugged his tail with affection and patted him on the back The smirk on his lips grew into a large smile. Soon everyone tried to come over and have a taste before moving quickly back to their stations.

"We are having that for dinner, right?" Miroku said patting the young chef on the back and hugging his tall frame in a manly hold. "Shippo this dish just may be your calling card. I bet we can pick up all the girls in the world with your soup and my charisma." He stated trying his best to paint a picture of decadence for the young demon most likely filled with all kinds of debaucheries.

Kagome rolled her eyes. "Shippo if you want a long prosperous career as a respectable chef, don't listen to the pervert." She grabbed a knife and began mincing garlic for another dish being prepped. Her arm came up wiping the sweat from her brow with her sleeve due to the heat rising in the hot kitchen. The phone rang loudly and she saw a waiter rush to grab it. She glanced up watching his face as the older gentleman nodded and placed the phone down in the crook of his shoulders. He walked close to her and knelt down to her ears.

"It's Rin. There has been an incident and the babysitter is requesting your assistance at once." The older man whispered lowly. His long white hair was pulled into a low ponytail and he looked highly concerned.

Kagome called over another hand to take her position. Once that was taken cared of she graciously took the phone from his hands. "Thank you Myoga." She mouthed silently as she moved to take the call in the back. "This is K." she answered quickly wiping her hands on her apron. The young girl on the other line began speaking heavy French explaining the situation. Kagome sighed leaning her head against the doorframe unaware of the audience that was her staff that began looking concerned. "I'm coming. No-no, its fine. I understand." She said before hanging up and rushing back into the kitchen.

She handed the phone back to her host who smiled grandfatherly to her. He knew what was coming and he prayed it wasn't anything too troubling. Miroku turned around and nodded catching her silent plea.

"I'll take over." He said looking at the clock happy that they were only thirty minutes away from closing. She ran over and hugged him before pulling back and taking off her apron. She walked back to face her kitchen giving out last recommendations and requests. "Turn that burner on low for that cream. Luc watch that left hand. Yasmine make sure you hit that bisque with a few a few cloves of garlic and basil." She raced towards her office and began pulling on her coat and grabbing her keys. She twirled around looking for her purse trying to focus her mind on the new task. "I'll be right back. Shippo make that soup again for dinner!" She yelled out hearing the confirmation from her chefs as she closed the door to the kitchen. Her feet slipped out of her kitchen shoes into her small flats before exiting and closing the door behind her. She raced through the back halls that led to the alley way behind the restaurant.

The cool night air hit her skin and cooled her off despite the increasingly loud beating of her heart. She dug through her purse for her cellphone. Kagome's hand managed to find the device and noticed several missed calls coming from the house. She tossed her phone back in her purse and took off running as fast as her feet would carry her. Her black shoes beat against the pavement while she moved like her life was at stake. She made it to a crosswalk and caught the light ushering her to cross quickly before the countdown ended. She moved around the paths of the romantics and thoughtful strollers walking along the Jardin des Tuileries. The yellow lights guided the streets and sidewalks putting Paris into a glow. She crossed a few more blocks until she made it to her street and stood breathing heavily in front of her apartment complex. She stumbled into the building as the doors were opened for her by the greeter. Kagome immediately ran towards the elevator and stabbed the number hurriedly. Her hair was frizzy and she was sure she looked as if she had escaped from some asylum. Moments later the doors opened and she raced out down the hallway to her apartment door. Quickly she pulled out her keys and put them in the key hole. Turning she heard the click and immediately went inside tossing her purse on the counter along with her keys. She slammed the door shut behind her and within seconds her little one was in her arms crying.

"Shhhhh…" She soothed rubbing her back lovingly. Her hands wrapped tightly around the body of the little girl who held on for dear life. Her tiny claws dug into her skin from fright. Kagome sighed feeling relieved to have her baby in her arms where she was safe. Her fingers combed through Rin's short hair while she whispered loving words and kissed her skull affectionately. Rin's nose buried deep in her shirt sniffing her calming scent. Kagome looked up to see the babysitter stand shaking while biting her lip out of fear. The smell of something sour filled her nose and she looked to see Rin wrapped in a dry pink towel shaking clearly afraid to death.

"I tried to give her a bath and she screamed as if I was stabbing her. It was just water and soon as it touched her head she screamed. She spilt milk over herself and it needed to come off so I tried to bathe her." The young girl said with tears in her eyes as equally as terrified as Rin from the situation. "I cannot watch her anymore, Ms. Higurashi. I can't."

Kagome swallowed thickly feeling Rin's tears through the fabric of her white restaurant shirt. "Ok. It's ok Bridget." She said rubbing the little girls back until she calmed. "You can go home. It's not your fault and don't feel bad." Kagome said softly pulling back from Rin and gently wiping her puffy face. "Rin's just had a rough time with water."

The skinny blonde girl nodded and quickly made her way out of the small apartment. Kagome looked to see the door close shut behind her before giving Rin her complete attention. Her fingers came up in front of her face catching the little girl's eyes. Her fingers began to move making various signs as she spoke. "We are going to get you cleaned up and then go to the restaurant to eat with the family. Ok?" She said watching Rin nod her head and sniffle. Her lips still trembled however and Kagome gathered her in her arms to lift her up. She moved to the smaller bedroom to gather Rin's fresh clean long pink nightgown and leggings from the closet. She continued to talk to Rin very lightly feeling Rin's hold weaken a bit. She sat her on the kitchen sink and cut the water on lightly feeling the temperature warm underneath her hand. Baby soap sat already prepared for usage. She signed and spoke for Rin to stand in the small sink. Rin signed her understanding and nodded her head.

"Good job!" Kagome spoke feeling the stress of the evening take its toll on her. The young woman managed to age in less than thirty minutes. The smile still stayed on her face brightening up the little bags underneath her eyes. She wet a wash cloth and put soap in it and with the care of a baker icing a cake she began to wash Rin making sure to avoid her eyes and mouth which were her trigger points. Rin signed feeling the happiness balloon inside of her again and the fear replaced by the warmth of her adoptive mother. Kagome told a story about Uncle Miroku and Cousin Shippo burning something in one of their cooking test kitchen experiments causing Rin to laugh. Sound came out which was like music to her ears until it was eclipsed by abrasive coughs racking her little body making her stop.

"Ok now sit." She signed and spoke. Rin did as she was told while Kagome used the small kitchen spray to wash the soap off of Rin's body. She very carefully rinsed Rin's hair making sure to avoid her face and allowing the water to spray gently until all the soap was gone. Rin smiled and held on tightly while Kagome dried her off using a pink fluffy towel and wrapped her head in it leaving the rest of her naked. Very quickly, Kagome put on her the pink gown and floral pink tights making sure Rin was warm and secure. She picked out a white cap to protect her scalp from the air and got her little red jacket out of the closet. Kagome wrapped her feet in socks and put on her little black boots.

"You ready?" Kagome asked holding out her hand patiently for Rin to take. Rin nodded taking hold of the offered hand and walking out of the door with Kagome. Kagome made sure to grab her items and lock up securely behind her. Very quickly she called the restaurant letting them know she was on the way back. Kagome hung up and threw the phone back into her bag and walked with Rin securely close to her body for protection. The night was filled with stars and the sound of a violinist somewhere swooning before the midnight hour. The lights stilled shined giving the world around them a fantasy glow that was surely bringing some lover together. Mother and daughter signed and held a small conversation along the way. Kagome making sure to place Rin in a calming mood otherwise sleep tonight would be hell for the both of them. Rin signed for her to stop before rushing over to pick a flower. Kagome waited with curiosity to see what she grabbed.

"Watch out for the people." Kagome called out to Rin who looked up just in time to move out of the way of the very tall man and woman. Her flower fell out of her clawed palms onto the pavement. Kagome walked over and picked up Rin who stared at the pedestrians before her. Her little eyes grew wide at the sight of long silver hair that shined softly in the moonlight. "Excuse us." Kagome said holding onto Rin tightly putting a bit more distance between herself and the couple.

The man nodded as the very well dressed woman sneered and motioned for them to keep walking. His eyes shined brightly like the many lights that lit up Paris in the dark. His long hair hung in a ponytail down his back elegantly while he was wrapped in a fashionable black summer coat with nice dress pants and loafers. Rin signed to the man catching his curious gaze forcing him to stop the woman in her poor attempt to persuade him into moving. "What?" The woman next to him spoke glaring at the child. "Ugh, we are going to be late." She stressed pulling him along. Her body was wrapped in a bright red jacket that rested at her knees. Her long black hair hung down her back and her hand and ears were adorned with jewels.

Kagome looked to Rin's fingers watching her sign. Kagome smiled and kissed her temple warmly. "She says you're both very beautiful."

"Of course." The woman stated before making to move. The man halted her pull. He stepped out of her hold and walked forward. The man with glowing molten golden eyes bent down to pick up the purple flower. Upon further inspection he found it to be a plain purple iris. Standing quickly he walked over and held the flower out for the little girl to take. She took it gently and smiled brightly up at the strange eyed man. Her fingers moved and he looked to the human in curiosity. Kagome smiled at the gesture. "She says thank you."

The demon nodded and turned to go back down the direction from which he came. The woman moved quickly trying to keep pace with him. As if nothing had happened she picked back up on whatever conversation they had. "-And did you taste their food. It was awful!" The woman yelled as they turned the corner to cut through the park.

Kagome lifted Rin higher in her arms and carried across the street and back to the restaurant. She could see in the front of her establishment the closed sign was put down and the curtains were drawn. She was almost to the door when it opened and allowed her to enter. She smiled up at Shippo watching him shut the door tightly behind her and lock it. Kagome sat Rin down on her feet and helped her out of her jacket and boots. Rin quickly fought off the offending red material holding her back from racing excitedly to get to the trickster demon. Once freed, she ran over to Shippo who grabbed her playfully and tossed her in the air.

"Hey, little morsel!" He greeted nuzzling his nose into her hair. "We made food. Let's go eat." He said as she clung to him and allowed him to carry her to the long table prepared for the staff to share in on a evening meal. Kagome answered a few questions and checked the books while the staff was still preparing for the late dinner. They normally had a late lunch but that day was taxing and they all needed a nice hot meal and light conversation to unwind.

"Rin, who's the cutest." Miroku asked sitting across from Rin at the table watching her look curiously between him and the young fox demon. He signed his question again having practiced it and used it several times before. "Don't worry you have time to think on it this time. I know my good looks can be overwhelming." He spoke pushing Shippo out of the way slightly. "As if, Miroku!" Shippo yelled cutting his emerald eyes at Miroku.

"Now boys, I can answer that question." Spoke Jakotsu who placed the plates down on the table in front of everyone.

Miroku coughed feeling a cold shiver run up his spine while Shippo scooted over a bit out of the way. Miroku thought about it for a bit before he nodded. "You know I'm completely ok with my masculinity if you gave your honest opinion. In the world of the LGBT community, where do I stand?" He asked showing off his bone structure and turning his head for the man to look over.

"Well Miroku, you of course are very sexy as always." Miroku nodded and smirked applauding himself at having the good looks that bridged over both sides of the fence. "But, Shippo definitely has that cute demon boy next door type of look about him." Shippo looked away giving his attention to Rin who reached out wanting to play with his tail.

"After dinner Rin." Shippo said but it was too late. Her tiny claws managed to grab his tail and she began to pet his tail backwards causing his fur to ripple in irritation.

Miroku laughed as Shippo released a whine from the painful treat. He looked in the back to see everyone bringing out the food and walking towards the table. All except one. Miroku smiled at Rin and stood swiftly to look for his boss. He pushed back the heavy expensive wooden doors leading to the kitchen and went to the little office in the back. He walked into the space and saw her sitting with her head leaned back in her chair. He noticed she looked tired and stressed catching his concern. He walked away and rushed to get a glass of water. His feet came back to find her in the same position but now looking back at him with a raised eyebrow. He handed her the glass and watched her stare at it for a minute.

"So, you going to share with me what that was all about?" He asked crossing his arms setting the tone that he wasn't leaving without full disclosure.

Kagome sighed and looked up at the ceiling. "She had another PTS episode taking a bath." She looked at him and laughed a bit running her palms down her face. "Now I got to find her a babysitter because Bridget quit tonight." She looked up and frowned. "Where am I going to find a good sitter on short notice that can help a special needs child!"

Miroku bent down so that he was eye level with the woman. "Listen, I know a lot of women. I can make some phone calls and emails and I'm sure I can find you one."

"This late at night? For tomorrow morning that Rin can trust!" Kagome asked unbelievingly pointing to clock which read 11:34pm.

Miroku looked at it and shrugged not bothered by the time. "You know I do my most amazing skills around this time anyway." He said before holding his finger to quiet any rebuttal regarding his corrupt nature. "Look, bring her tomorrow here and I'll take care of the rest. Now come to dinner otherwise there won't be anything left to eat."

Kagome nodded ushering him onwards to give her a minute to lock up everything. She quickly logged in a few numbers and wrote down the information from the day's sales. She stretched her body and stood up quickly to cut off the lights before she saw the glass of water. The clear liquid sat undisturbed yet reflecting the tragedies that it caused as it swept away everything literally right before her eyes. Cries mingled with the sound of rushing water filled her ears and took her back to place of grief and loss. The place where she and Rin crossed paths; forever to be entwined in this new life together in Paris.

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