Best I Never Had by Aviel

Caretaker

Disclaimer: Though it saddens me to say it, I don’t own anything relating to Takahashi-sensei’s Inuyasha. However, the plot and/or ideas of this drabble series do belong to me, and a nod of recognition goes to the creator of this challenge.

A/N: None. :)

Chapter 6: Caretaker

Looking after a child was more of a strange experience than he had thought. It wasn’t so much as a hardship per se, but rather unexpected because the little human had proven to be unusually obedient for her kind.

Pitter-pattering behind him on bare feet, the girl did not utter a single word as she struggled to keep up with his lengthy strides. Granted, he slowed his pace whenever he sensed her growing fatigue, but otherwise left her to her own devices as he knew she could find proper sustenance and care for herself when necessary. He also understood that she had been largely independent before his appearance in her life and would remain so should they decide to go their separate ways later down the road. It was this that earned a little of his respect for the girl. Another factor was the complete absence of her fear in his presence, which was a feat in itself.

He did not know if it was due to her naivete, considering her life and all she had probably witnessed so far, but he would allow her to keep her childlike innocence as she wished.

The only order of business he would see to was her choice in attire and overall hygiene. If she was to be his companion, he would make sure she looked the part. Jaken would have to fetch an able protector for her as well.

And if he didn’t, the Lord of the West would just kill him.

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Original Posting Date: October 5, 2013

Prompt: For Stella’s “Latin” Challenge, Aerumna – labor, toil, hardship

Words: 250