There are times when Kaito and Ryoga just wonder why on earth they're spending so much time with Yuma. Friends spend time together, that was a given, but sometimes the pair thought it was a bit overdone. They saw the way Yuma cherished his circle of friends, and both couldn't help but smile at his endless energy and determined spirit.
Yet, it still hurt. While he was in Yuma's circle of friends, Ryoga never concerned himself with anyone besides the start of the show—- Yuma. He knew he was attracted to the younger male, for a long time in fact. He'd been saved by the other on multiple occasions, and was drawn to his innocent spirit. Yet, though he was close to Yuma, Ryoga felt like their relationship would never take to the next level.
Kaito was quite the similar case. Though he distanced himself considerably more so than Ryoga, he still respected Yuma as a duelist, and perhaps, maybe even a good friend. There were moments when Kaito wasn't exactly sure what he wanted out of the younger boy; Friendship? Or perhaps something more?
Two different people, similar mindsets. They had their eyes on the same person, yet deep down they knew a relationship with the young boy would be a delicate, rather fragile process. Perhaps even impossible. It pained them to accept the reality that had fallen upon them, but it hadn't clouded their vision. While the pair knew that they would always hold some form of affection towards Yuma, they knew at some point they would have to weigh the options and accept "second best" as an option.
They waited for their friend to finish up his school assignments. Standing coolly nearby the school, several people walked by, eyeing them before moving on. The duo remained unfazed, hands shoved in pockets and arms crossed. It was Ryoga who brought up the familiar topic, one they had shared countless times before. It really never grew redundant.
"Do you ever think he'll settle for just one person?" He asked coolly, focusing on the sky above.
Kaito remained silent for several moments. The question was the same as always; It was just a matter of acting on his thoughts. "Do you think we'll ever learn?"
The question remained unanswered. However, as they exchanged knowing glances, they both decided that it wouldn't be so bad to settle for second best.