Kichiko: Okay, so I'm just going to cut to the chase, almost. Chrino is feeling a little bit down right now about little reviews, for some reason, which is why she is not here for the introduction of the new chapter, but I am perfectly happy! Thank you all, for showing all your interest in the story! And sorry about the wait! Took longer than we thought it would… =S
Oh, by the way, we got a great idea for this chapter, so SRRH, this chapter is dedicated to you, as promised!
And, just so I have said it, we don't have a real reason for the late update, if you don't want to hear the same old excuse of being on a hiatus. In other words, it was a difficult chapter to write. According to Chrino anyway…
FYI, we don't own Yu-Gi-Oh! And that's that.
With that said, please enjoy…!
NEVER GONNA BE ALONE
It was raining. The raindrops tapped angrily at the windows, and made it harder to want to go out. So Yami and Yugi stayed in that day. Yami took the dishes while Yugi made breakfast, and after breakfast they watched some TV, just to pass the time.
Yami learned that day that Yugi was easily bored if he didn't have his mind set on something or had something to do (even with all the make-out sessions they had), so after an hour of watching some weird quiz show where the losers were punished in a rather embarrassing way, Yugi suggested playing something. Luckily Yami had a card deck, and the next few hours were spent playing, both teaching the other new games to play. None of them liked to loose, but as Yami stated: "I don't mind loosing as long as it is to you." Yugi agreed wholeheartedly, and they had a lot of fun, not just playing, but also telling stories. They told all kinds of stories, from things they remembered from when they were kids, to recent things; like one incident at Yami's office, where one of his colleagues had been pranked big time.
"I swear, I have never seen him so shocked before, and he is not easily surprised." Yugi laughed hard, and Yami chuckled along with him, the vision of his colleague glued to his mind. After a short time Yugi calmed down, and then just looked at Yami, seemingly lost in thought, and had most likely forgotten it was his turn.
"What is it?" Yami asked, when Yugi didn't seem to react to his whereabouts.
"Oh, sorry. It's just, well, you are different."
"Different? What do you mean?"
"Oh, not in a bad way," Yugi said reassuringly, "I just, I couldn't help but think that you are a lot more outgoing then I first thought when I met you."
"Really?" Yami was surprised to hear this. "Well, maybe it is because it is you."
"Me?"
"Yes. I don't really talk much, but now that you mention it, I have told you a lot of things I generally am not too comfortable to tell others. My colleagues know very little about me, because I want it that way. But I am very comfortable around you. I feel as if I can tell you everything. I trust you."
"Wow." Yugi smiled brightly. "Thanks. It means a lot. I trust you, too. I wouldn't exactly be here if I didn't."
"No, I guess not. Your turn, by the way."
After some time, Yami noticed that Yugi was losing rather often, and heard Yugi mumbling something about picking the wrong game. But there was a mischievous light in the other's eyes that Yami didn't miss, and started to play worse by each game, little by little. Only when they had played another 7 rounds did Yugi notice that Yami had caught on to his little game, and now they did everything to lose, playing worse than a beginner with the worst beginners luck. After a very desperate attempt from them both, which resulted in Yami reigning victorious (as the loser of the game) they laughed and gave up the cards. Yami excused himself, and took a quick trip to the bathroom.
Yami heard Yugi still chuckling to himself when he got out. Such a childish behaviour, but it had been fun. He caught sight of his wallet, and grabbed it. He opened it and quickly counted the cash, just so he knew how much he had. Yami was about to put it away when he noticed something. Inside was a pair of tickets he had won some time ago, a work related competition if he remembered correctly, to the play The Phantom of the Opera. It was that very same evening he noted, and wondered why on earth he had bothered to keep them. With the wallet safe in his back pocket and tickets in hand, he walked thoughtfully to the kitchen, wondering if it was worth the time. It wasn't as if he was interested in the play, but if Yugi liked this sort of thing, then Yami would endure. He found it better to ask first, instead of making assumptions. His grandmother had yelled at him more than once for believing rumours before hearing the real story first. So now he was very careful to not judge people based on both first impressions and rumours. More than once had it backfired on him, and he didn't want to go through any of it again.
"Yugi-kun, would you be interested in going out?" Yami asked when he came to the kitchen, and leaned against the doorway. Yugi, who was now in the middle of a game of solitaire, looked at his host in surprise.
"In this weather? I thought you were the one that said that you wanted to stay the day in because of the rain."
"Yes, I did. But I just found some tickets that I forgot that I had." Yami lifted his hand to show Yugi. "It is for a play. For tonight."
"Is that so? What kind of play is it?" Yugi asked and lay down his cards to turn toward his host.
"The Phantom of the Opera," Yami shrugged. "I've heard it is a classic."
"So you have never seen it before?"
"No, nor have I seen any other play."
"So why the sudden interest? I mean, why did you have tickets in the first place?"
"Because I won them. I don't even remember why, I only know that is was work related, but I intended to give them away. Clearly I forgot. Supposedly the seats are in a boot, with a great view, and we get free drinks."
Yugi thought about it a few moments before he nodded. "All right. We don't have anything better to do. When it is?"
"Seven, tonight. So we still have a few hours to kill."
"Don't say that," Yugi said, smiling a bit secretly before raising up, sauntering up to Yami. "We can always go there early. When they said free drinks, I think we might be able to get a small tour around the theatre. And it is highly recommendable."
"You have been there before, then."
"Yes. A few times. None of the times did I enjoy the play we saw, but I love the tour. The building is old, and has a long and incredibly interesting history. What do you say? I think it will peak even your interest."
Yami chuckled, and stole a kiss from his boyfriend. "You are full of surprises. And very knowledgeable. All right, when do you suggest we leave?"
"Half five, if not earlier. It depends on whether we get a cab or take the bus. And I suggest a cab. No need to get on a bus looking all fancy."
"Why is that?"
"Because, you and I, are going to wear suits."
"Suits?" That caught Yami's interest. He could only imagine how handsome Yugi would look in a suit. "Well, well, this I have to see."
"What?" Yugi said confused.
"You in a suit, what else?" Yami said, like it was an everyday thing.
"Are you really that eager about the play?" Yugi asked, still confused. "You aren't really that interested."
"If it is good, then it will be worth my time. If I don't like it, then I can just stare at my handsome boyfriend sitting next to me, looking absolutely smashing in a suit. Especially if it is the right kind of suit. But I am not difficult. I love you in everything."
Yugi blushed. "Oh, I don't know about that –" he started, but Yami brought up a finger to his soft lips to hush him.
"Yes, you do look good in everything. Well, at least from the few outfits I have seen you in. Even now you look great."
"In this old thing?" Yugi exclaimed, and looked down on his worn out sweatpants and grey sweater. "I do not!"
"If I say so, then yes, you do. Don't do that," Yami said as Yugi shakes his head in disbelief, "do not shake your head and cast it away like it is nothing. Tell you what," he said, interrupting what was most likely a protest from his boyfriend, "we are going to the bedroom to change now, and you are going to look in the mirror and say to me that you don't look good, before I believe you."
"Alright, alright, I get the point!" Yugi snapped, startling Yami a little. He would never have expected such an outburst from Yugi. Yugi immediately started to apologise, his beautiful face full of sadness. "Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to say it like that! Oh, what an idiot I am!" Yugi said and slapped his forehead.
"No, it's alright. I am sorry if I pushed it a bit far. I shouldn't have said it like that. I just wanted you to understand how beautiful you are." Yami felt bad. He really hadn't meant to stretch it that far. He pulled Yugi into an embrace, which Yugi willingly melted into, kissing the smaller man's forehead. "I really am sorry. I hope I didn't hurt you."
"What? No!" Yugi pulled his head back to look up at Yami. "If anyone shall apologise it's me. I didn't mean to snap like that." He sighed, and buried his face into Yami's chest. "I guess I have a little insecurities about my looks."
"Why?" Yami carefully inquired. "You have nothing to be ashamed of."
"I know. It's just that I was picked on a lot as a child because I am smaller then most. The other kids always made fun of my hair, and made jokes about me. It didn't help that my sister tried to have her pep talks with me, they just never worked with me." He giggled, most likely remembering something. "I just didn't have the confidence to fight back. I am just glad that I got my friends when I did. I don't think that I would've been able to stand anymore bullying."
Yami felt awful. If he had known about Yugi's past, then he wouldn't have pushed him like that. His grandmother had proved herself right yet again, he really didn't know when to shut up! 'Damn my big mouth!'
"Yugi-kun, I am so sorry! If I had known –"
"But you didn't. I don't like to talk about the bad things that has happened to me."
"I understand. A dark past is not an easy thing to talk about."
"Oh, I feel so guilty now," Yugi said sadly.
"You don't have a reason to be. I stomped my foot in my mouth, again. Yugi-kun, look at me, please."
Yugi did, and Yami saw the guilt and sadness in his eyes, and again felt the leech gnaw at his conscience.
"Listen, I swear to not be such a stupid, heartless jerk anymore, and if I do, then you have my permission to punch me, and I mean punch me, with everything you have. Don't looked so shocked," he said, when he saw the mortified look that Yugi got, "I really think I would deserve it. After all, I never seem to learn before someone smacks me real good and tells me to put my act together. My grandmother did it all the time," he added, mostly to himself. "Might be why I am the quiet type."
"I wouldn't call you the quiet type, just a little reserved," Yugi said. "You know, the kind of guy who doesn't just throw himself into things just because of the heck of it. And you are not a stupid, heartless jerk. You didn't know that I had a bad time at school. It's all in the past. It's okay. You are forgiven."
"I shouldn't be forgiven for having such a big mouth, sprouting out shit I shouldn't say," Yami said, letting his eyes fall on the wall in front of him to glare a hole into it, cursing his stupidity yet again.
"I am telling you it's okay! You don't have to apologise!"
"And neither do you," Yami said, his gaze falling back on Yugi, who just stared at him. "You were the one with a bad past, in which I, the idiot, ripped in without knowing. Let me make it up to you at least."
"Why?"
"Because I want to. I don't want us to go to the play while having hard feelings. I know for a fact that none of us would be able to enjoy the show, when we felt nothing but guilt. So, I want us to relax some and just set our minds on other things before thinking about getting ready. What do you say?"
Yugi looked a little guilty still, but Yami saw the glimmer in his eyes, how he had peaked the younger's interest.
"Yeah? And how, pray tell, are you going to do that?"
Yami smirked. Yugi had bolted out of his arms before Yami had had the time to react, and now stared at him across the table. Yugi smirked too.
"I know that look. That is the look Jonouchi gets when he wants to tickle me. He's my friend," he answered to Yami's unasked question. "He did it all the time, so I learned what to look for. To bad for you," he taunted. Yami wasn't worried.
"So you got away. Doesn't mean that I will not be able to catch you."
"Wouldn't count on that. I am a fast sprinter."
"I do have the upper hand right now. You are unable to escape, seeing as I am blocking your way out."
"You will have to move at some point. Besides," Yugi said, resting his hands on the table, "where would the fun be if we just stood here?"
Yami chuckled at that statement. "Yes, indeed. Thought there is also the fact that I am able to see you squirm in your little 'imprisonment', knowing that I am the one holding you captive."
"Really now?" Yugi said. He raised an eyebrow. "I didn't know that your way of being a host was to keep your guests as prisoners?"
"Only if they don't behave. And you are not behaving. I am afraid that I will have to punish you when I catch you."
"Who says you will?" Yugi asked, clearly loving the challenge he was up against. It showed in his shining orbs.
"Who says I will not?" Yami asked, knowing that his chances of catching Yugi was big. He did have the advantage, and he would be damned if he let Yugi win this challenge.
They only stood there, watching each other, trying to read the other and figure out their next move. It turned out to be very difficult, and none of them moved a single muscle.
Yami made the first move. He advanced toward the table, Yugi standing where he was. He took a few steps to the right, Yugi stepping right too, to get closer to the doorway. Yami stepped back to the left, Yugi advanced back. They kept up their little stepping game until finally, Yami advanced. He burst into a sprint, knowing that Yugi would run out of the kitchen, so he let him, just to change the scenery. They ran around the small apartment, Yugi laughing loudly as he ducked away from Yami's arms, taunting his host while he ran. "You wont get me, old man!" he said, as he yet again managed to lure away from Yami's grip. Yami was breathing hard, not used to the exercise. He knew what he got himself into when challenging Yugi, yet he found he didn't care. He had already accomplished his main goal: to distract Yugi from their earlier conversation.
Tired of the chasing, he run and jumped on the couch and over it, blocking the easy way out. Yugi, who hadn't expected that move, ran the other way, probably hoping to past the crack between the couch and the window, and he would've got away, had he only reacted a second earlier. Yami caught the smaller man's wrist, and forced him down on the couch, though Yugi was fighting with all he had to get away. Yami wouldn't let him, and held him as he managed to climb over the couch without falling.
Yugi was struggling still, though he was smiling widely and still laughing, even as Yami managed to push him down on his back and sit across him to prevent his escape. "Oh, please, I beg of you, please let me go!" Yugi pleaded playfully. "Whatever have I done to you?"
"You know what you have done, prisoner," Yami answered, smirking evilly, "and thus you shall be punished." And as he had promised, he immediately started to tickle Yugi. The man under him tried to push him away, but laughed too much to be able to do much. After a few moments of tickling and pushing, did Yugi finally surrender. "Stop, please, I surrender! I can't take it anymore!" Yami let his fingers dance by Yugi's sides a little bit more before he backed off. They were both panting heavily, Yami from all the running, and Yugi from all the laughing. Both men just looked at each other, and Yami couldn't help but gasp at the sight of Yugi. The younger man was flushed, eyes half closed and the clothes was ruffled. A flash of the dream he had the night before Yugi came was soon on his mind: Yugi naked under him, looking at him with smouldering eyes, begging to be taken…
Yami shook his head. He couldn't be thinking about that dream now! It would be his doom! Concentrating about the task at hand, he leaned down, his lips kissing Yugi's petite nose, and looked deep into the other's eyes, those mesmerising amethyst that he couldn't get enough of.
"Time for the next part," Yami whispered. Yugi shuddered.
"What's that? More punishment?" Yugi murmured, and Yami noticed the husky tone Yugi's voice had got, and he liked it.
"No," Yami said, and kissed the corner of the smaller man's mouth. He ached to kiss the rosy lips right beneath his own, and judging from the way Yugi leaned up to meet his, the other wanted the same. "This is making up," he whispered, as he caught Yugi's lips in a hard kiss, not able to hold back anymore. Tongues fought and teeth clashed, and they both were very forceful, but oh, how Yami loved it! Hands wandered all over Yugi, and soon wounded up in the smaller man's hair, who moaned as Yami tried to press his head even closer to his, kissing even harder than before. Yugi's hands felt their way up and down Yami's back and chest, before they grabbed his shirt and dragged him down, both giving a breathless gasp as they bodies met. More frenzied than ever, Yami let his hands wander again, down to Yugi's hips, and Yugi's hand's clawed at Yami's back. Yami growled, and his lips left Yugi's in favour of nipping at the other's neck. Yugi moaned low, the taller man taking it as an encouraging sound, and his lips wandered to find new places to explore. They found a nipple under the T-shirt, and he couldn't resist the urge to bite it. Yugi shuddered, and moaned low and long, a whisper leaving his lips, as he gave name to the one giving him all the pleasure, "Yami-san".
Yami loved the sounds Yugi would give, and gave the nub another bite. Yugi moaned again, a bit louder this time, and his arms tightened their hold on Yami, who in turn sought out his lover's lips again, kissing with such heat that he got dizzy. Kissing and pulling and tugging, Yami felt his body temperature go sky high. It was unlike anything he had ever felt before, and the sensation was wonderful! The gorgeous young man under him caused all the heat, and he would be damned if he lost that wonderful feeling. He was drugged, the drug was Yugi, and he wanted more, more, more!
Hands found their way under the younger man's T-shirt, and nimble fingers found a pair of nipples. They were hard, he noticed, as he started to rub on them both. He received another moan, and realised that the nipples were a really sensitive place. Rubbing harder now, he released the other's lips so he could look at Yugi's face. He gasped. Yugi was – hot! His red kiss swollen lips parted, his cheeks flushed a very delicate red, his eyes tightly shut, and he was panting heavily. Yami felt every breath
Yugi took, and it just excited him even more. His fingers tweaked the hard nubs they were playing with, and Yugi gave the loudest moan yet. He was calling out for Yami, and Yami felt proud of himself. He was the one who had Yugi under his spell, who made him feel so good, and he wanted him to feel more. Yami wanted to give Yugi the greatest pleasure he could bestow him, and that was the only thing on his mind as he started to nibble on Yugi's slender throat again. He felt Yugi shift beneath him, but didn't really mind it as he now lied between Yugi's thighs. Lips sought out Yugi's as he tried to come even closer to Yugi.
Yugi suddenly let out his loudest cry yet and was clinging quite desperately to Yami. He didn't mind at all, and didn't really register Yugi's legs wrapping themselves around his own body. He did however notice the buck Yugi made, grinding their erections together, and Yami gave a loud cry.
Yami's cry was like a slap on his face. He stopped everything he was doing, and quickly detached himself from Yugi, his arms holding him up – and away – from the hot body beneath him. Yugi held onto Yami's shirt, and was clearly confused, his face showing all the pleasure he felt still, his eyes darkened with lust and passion. A moment later his expression changed. It went rapidly from a pleasure filled expression to a shocked and embarrassed one. His face reddened to a deep tomato colour in seconds, and his hands shot up to cover his mouth, clearly understanding fully what had just happened.
Yami was off immediately. He sat down at the other end of the couch, trying to get his hot body to cool down, at least enough so he wouldn't attack Yugi. He avoided to look at Yugi, with his hair tussled and clothes rumpled, his face nicely flushed – no! He was not going there! He had to calm down. Yami thought of the most disgusting things he could think of, and it help to a degree – his erection had faded greatly, mostly because of no stimulation, he thought.
Yami was ashamed, deeply ashamed of himself. Never had he acted such on impulse before, never acted on his feelings alone. It was new to him, and it scared him. He was just glad he was able to stop before going too far with Yugi. He didn't even dare glance at his companion, afraid of what he would see in the other's expressive orbs. That scared him the most. Yami was afraid that Yugi would be angry with him, disgusted with him, even, and Yami knew that he wouldn't be able to handle it.
"Sorry," Yami mumbled. "I didn't mean to go that far." Not that he didn't want to, he thought, but that would be too fast. They hadn't even known each other for three days, and already he had such strong feelings for Yugi, beyond the sexual factor. Yes, he was attracted to Yugi, and desired him; he had done so from the very first moment they met. But, there was so much more to Yugi then meets the eye. And Yami felt truly lucky to know him at all. There was no way he was going to force him to anything (though Yugi seemed to be a very willing participant).
"Well, it's not like I minded," Yugi said shyly, a small smile on his face as he looked away bashfully, rearranging his rumpled clothing. Yami dared a quick look at Yugi, just as Yugi glanced at him. Their eyes met, and both looked away, embarrassed.
"This doesn't change anything, you know," Yugi then said, quietly. "This just – well, confirms things, doesn't it? I mean," he hesitated, "that we are attracted to each other. I am attracted to you." The last sentence was added almost at a whisper, but Yugi did look at Yami now, his gaze didn't flicker, and he smiled the gentle smile that Yami loved.
"And I to you," Yami said, trying to get his words to come out the right way. "I just, I don't want to be hasty."
"I understand," Yugi quickly said, nodding firmly, "but I also know how I feel, and I truly would not have minded if we –" The rest of the sentence were left in the air, but Yami understood quite well. "It was nice, though. This, I mean, what we just … I … Oh, what am I saying?" Yugi clapped his hands over his face again.
"I understand," Yami said. And he did. Yugi didn't have to say anything; his body had said it all.
A heavy silence fell over them, and Yami didn't like it. He cleared his throat, stood up, and walked toward the kitchen. "Would you like some tea?" he asked.
"Yes, please." Yugi followed Yami into the kitchen as he put the kettle on the stove. Finding the cups needed, Yami took out the tealeaves he bought a few days ago, preferring them to the teabags whenever he found the urge to drink tea. Some ten minutes later they sat at the table, enjoying the hot liquid, sneaking glances at the other as they sipped their teas.
Yami wanted to say something, but he had no clue what that should be. He had already hurt Yugi by being forceful earlier, and being nervous, he would definitely say something stupid. So he remained silent, and simply gazed at Yugi over his teacup. He really did love to just look at Yugi. He was so gorgeous and handsome that Yami couldn't tear his eyes off of him when he started to truly look at him.
"Something wrong?" Yugi inquired some time later. Yami, a bit startled, noticed that his tea was cold and that he was staring at Yugi.
"Er, no. Why?"
"You just seemed, well, sad about something. And … shameful."
Yami did indeed stare at Yugi. Had it shown on his face? The real reason he had backed away from Yugi as things were heating up? Yami wondered if he should tell. He didn't want Yugi to see him as strange. As if he wasn't already strange, but more strange, he thought. No, he decided against it. It would be better that way.
"Everything is alright," Yami said, in what he hoped was a handoff sort of way, and luckily, Yugi didn't press the matter. "If you must know, I was staring at you because I think that you are quite handsome."
Yugi smiled bashfully, looking down on his cup. "I think that you are quite handsome, too."
It was Yami's turn to be a bit embarrassed, but did like the attention he got from Yugi.
The earlier tension between then had gone somehow, and they were now able to talk about simple little things, Yami making another cup of tea for them both. And so, time went by, as the earlier happenings were pushed aside for the moment, to be discussed for another time.
-xx-
The cab pulled up by the theatre, and the couple paid the driver and hastily made their way out and in through the huge doors. They had only one umbrella, and didn't want to be wet. Wet clothing just didn't look good when one was at a play. Though Yami noticed that some people was dressed quite normally.
As for the couple, they hadn't showed up in a full suit either. Yugi was very handsome in black trousers, a short sleeved white shirt and a black, white striped vest. As for Yami himself, he had thrown on his own pair of black trousers, a dark blue shirt and a simple tie. Both had a black jacket because of the rain, but their clothes weren't exactly waterproof.
"Shoot, my trousers are wet," Yugi stated and shook one of his feet.
"Be glad the trousers are black. People will not notice."
"Yes, I know that, but I hate wet clothing. The only times it should be wet is when they get washed. Oh well, should dry quickly enough. So, what do you think?"
Yami looked around. He was very impressed by the entrance hall. It was made in a very nice Gregorian style from the West, and was absolutely fabulous. Of course, the only reason he knew it was a Gregorian style from the West, was mostly because of the unique style, but also because his grandmother had told about the theatre. She had loved it greatly, and had also worked there in her younger years. Yami had never really had a great interest in architecture, and had zoned out many times when she told about its great history. Now he regretted not listening. He could tell that the building was old, though renovated throughout the years, and all he knew was that the building was made during the Edo period by a British architect. How he had regretted not listening to his grandmother. He used to, when he was a child, but the lack of interest with such stories simply faded as he became more interested in other things, such as girls, music, and hanging out; the important things. In time he became more distant and would hardly speak to his grandmother if it weren't her yelling at him to listen to her, and more then once had they ended up arguing over the silliest thing, just because they were both so incredibly stubborn.
His heart ached as he remembered the loss of his grandmother. He still had not had the chance to give his apologies for the time they argued. Yami would regret it for the rest of his life, and could only make it up to her by trying to lead a good life where he didn't let his pride (or whatever was left of it) and stubbornness ruin his chances of a good relationship. Yami sighed. Yeah, if only he wasn't so good and ending his relationships, then maybe there would be a chance for him to experience love.
He looked at Yugi, who was looking over the hall, probably to find the man who they were to meet. Yami couldn't help but smile when he saw the eager look on Yugi's face. Maybe he had a chance at love, if Yugi was willing? He didn't think anything but good things about him, and loved to have Yugi around, so if Yugi was willing to stay longer, then they could see if this relationship was going anywhere. Yami could only hope for the best.
His smile fell from his face as Yami remembered something his grandmother had said. "If you ever find your one true love, don't let them go! You only have one chance at finding your one true love, after all." He sighed again. 'Grandmother was right in most of the things she said, even if I never wanted to admit it. Maybe this is one of those things,' Yami thought sadly, and grabbed Yugi's hand without realising it. He just needed something to hold.
"Yami-san?" Yami heard a soft voice say. "Are you all right?" He glanced at Yugi, who looked at him with worry in his eyes. Only then did he register what he did, and saw how he squeezed the other's hand. He quickly let go.
"I'm sorry," he mumbled, but Yugi shook his head and took his hand again.
"It's all right. I just wondered if there was something bothering you. You had quite a far away look in your eyes."
Yami felt his heart flutter. Yugi was genuinely worried about him, and that made him feel better instantly.
"Everything is all right. I just came to think of something my grandmother told me one time, and I started to feel sad when I thought of her. But I am okay now. Let's go find our guide."
Yugi didn't look too convinced. "Are you sure you are all right? I would feel bad if you feel as if I am dragging you with me on this whim."
"No, I am truly fine. I would rather think of happy things then dwell on the bad ones. So, how about we find that guide of yours?"
Yugi studied him for a moment, before he nodded, and turned to look around again. His face lit up as he finally saw the one he was looking for. Yami followed his gaze. In one of the far corners stood an elderly man, with a working uniform on him that showed he worked at the theatre. His hair was white, and he had a bright smile on his face where he stood, and only looked around him, without a care in the world.
"Come on," Yugi said and tugged on Yami's hand. Together they walked to the man, whose eyes were now on them, and lit up in recognition.
"Hello, Fujisaka-san," Yugi said to the elderly man as they approached him. Fujisaka smiled widely.
"Well, well, if it isn't young Mutou. Here to see the play? I distinctively remember that you dreaded everytime you were forced to see one."
"Don't remind me," Yugi said and frowned. "They were not worth my time at all."
"Yes. You preferred the tour, and enjoyed them quite a bit."
"Yes, well, that is why I wanted to talk to you."
"Oh, really now," Fujisaka said, grinning knowingly, "wanting another tour, I presume?"
"Yeah. It's not just for me, though. This is Takamori Yami-san. He is the reason we are here today."
"Oh, is it now?" Fujisaka said and shook Yami's hand. "He looks just as interested in the play tonight as you are. Which, I have to say, is slim to no interest at all!"
Yami chuckled. "I shall be honest and say that I have never been to a play before, and have never had any reason to go to one. But I found some tickets I won some time back, and since we didn't have anything better to do, we decided to go. I have heard that there is quite a history behind these walls."
"Yes, yes, there is," the elder man said, and his face shone brightly. "I am more then happy to show you around. You seem to have some time before the play starts." He lifted a crooked finger, and indicated for the couple to follow. For an elderly man, he sure was quick on his feet, and Yami and Yugi had to walk fast to keep up with him. As they rounded a corner and walked into a door that the couple wouldn't have seen if it hadn't been open, Fujisaki said: "What I am about to tell you, is a story from many years ago, about a young man who came to Japan to get some inspiration, and ended up building one of the most historical buildings here in Domino!"
(K/N: For various reasons Fujisaki's story was never included. Please see footnote at the end of the story)
-xx-
"Wow," Yami said in awe after they bid Fujisaka their goodbyes and made their way to their seats. "I never knew that there was such a history to the theatre."
"I know," Yugi agreed. "Most doesn't. It's a shame really. I think that it would've been cool to write a book of the theatre's history, so everyone could read it. But then again, that is only my opinion."
"I think so, too," Yami said. "Don't look at me like I have grown two heads," he added when Yugi stared strangely at him. "Why would I not agree? If I had been able to write I would do it in a heartbeat."
"Are you telling me that you can't write?"
"Well, most people can write, but most can't write a book, and I am one of them. If I could, then I would not have the job I have. I would be writing about my life in a very funny aspect, so that people would have something to laugh about." Yugi laughed. "See? You are laughing."
"Only because you were being ironic," Yugi said.
"Who says I was being ironic?"
"You did. But really, write a book about your life?"
"Yes. My grandmother is about five chapters alone – no, make that six – and that says a lot." Yami smiled as he again that evening thought of his grandmother. "But, even thought things weren't always so good between us, I wouldn't have it any other way. I wouldn't have her any other way."
Yugi took Yami's hand in his, and squeezed gently. He didn't have to say anything, Yami knew that Yugi understood, and that simple gesture meant everything.
"Oh, it's starting," Yugi said, and Yami noticed he was right. The lights were dimming, and the orchestra was getting ready. He leaned back into his chair, his full attention on the stage, though he held onto Yugi's hand, and held it firmly as the curtains raised and the play started.
-xx-
"Well, what do you think?" Yugi asked when the curtains were down and the people below started to make their way out of the room.
"Well, it was very impressive, absolutely, and they all sang very well," Yami said.
"You didn't like it, did you?" Yugi snickered.
Yami thought about it, before shrugging. "It wasn't a waste of time, but not something I would like to see everyday." He looked at Yugi, who grinned at him. "Don't give yourself credit for something I have already stated."
"Oh, I know. I can't help but tease a little bit."
"Really, now?" Yami said, and decided to tease a little himself. He leaned in to gently kiss Yugi, only a brush against the lips, then he looked deeply into Yugi's eyes, before brushing his lips to Yugi's again. He repeated this a few times, and soon Yugi tried to push. It was easy to see that Yugi wanted to get a proper kiss, but whenever he tried, Yami would back away, just enough to keep the kisses light.
"Tease," Yugi mumbled against Yami's lips, who chuckled.
"Payback is a bitch," Yami said, and stood up, taking Yugi's hand and led him out of the balcony. He noticed that there was no one else in the hallway, just as Yugi pushed him against the wall and captured his lips in a bruising kiss. Yami kissed back with enthusiasm, arms wounding around Yugi to get him as close as possible. They parted when breath was needed, and Yami couldn't help but smirk.
"What?" Yugi asked, still breathless after the wonderful kiss.
"Oh, nothing special. I just never thought you could be so aggressive, our little 'get together' earlier today not included."
"And that is a bad thing?" Yugi asked, clearly a bit nervous. Yami saw it in the younger one's big amethyst eyes. He shook his head.
"Not at all," he murmured, and kissed Yugi's cheek before his lips found his ear, and he whispered: "I like it."
Yugi blushed brightly, but smiled widely nonetheless. "Really?"
"Yes, really." Yami smirked as he noticed the smaller man's red face. "And now you are blushing."
"Yami-san!" Yugi blushed more strongly. "Must you comment it everytime?"
"But, Yugi-kun, you are absolutely adorable like that. How could I not say anything?"
"Adorable? Me?"
"Yes."
Yugi stared at his host's chest, and mumbled something about everybody calling him adorable and cute because he looked younger than he really was. Yami sensed his annoyance. He placed a finger under Yugi's chin, gently persuading him to lift his head.
"I am sorry, but I have to agree with everyone that says that you are cute and adorable. But," he said, at Yugi's pouting face, "you are so much more. You are a very handsome young man, with a heart of gold and with the kindest spirit than anyone I have ever met. I am honoured to be in your company."
Yugi squirmed a little by the praise he received, but smiled nonetheless. "Really? You think all that of me?"
"Yes, I do. From our very first meeting there was something about you that captured me, and I am not just talking about how hot you looked in that outfit of yours." Yugi blushed again. "I knew that there was more to you than meets the eye, and I am glad that you wanted to let me get to know you. It means a great deal to me."
"Thank you," Yugi said, smiling bashfully. "I am glad that I met you, too."
"Glad to hear." Yami kissed Yugi sweetly before taking his hand. "Come on, let's go home."
They ignored the looks they received as they walked down and into the hall hand in hand, and proceeded outside without anyone commenting (at least not that they heard), and noticed that it was no longer raining. It was very dark already, but Yami did see the moon high up in the sky, concluding that the sky had cleared. Deciding that it was a nice night to walk home, he guided Yugi forward and simply kept on walking. It was quite a long walk, but he was certain that Yugi wouldn't mind.
"Are we walking back?" Yugi asked, and he noticed very quickly that they weren't heading for a cab or a bus.
"Yes. It's such a nice night. It would be a waste to use it inside a vehicle. Don't you think?"
"I absolutely agree," Yugi said, and so they started their journey back to Yami's apartment. They talked of various things, and actually discussed the play quite a lot, the main topic being about the relationship between the phantom and Christine Daaé. They both found the phantom quite disturbing, but could also understand his loneliness in their own way. Yami didn't want to talk about sad things, so he steered over to another subject, and soon they talked about crushes they had when they were younger. Yami had a few when he was in high school, but as he said, it wasn't much to talk about. He had the uncanny (and very unlucky) ability to fall for people who were taken. Didn't matter that he was going out with said person or not, he always found someone who were seeing someone, or was married even. A woman he tried to date a few years back was engaged, and she had agreed to go put with him, but her fiancé found out, and Yami had learned the hard way as the fiancé stormed in the café they sat at and punched Yami in his face.
"I sworn off from dating from that very day. I never dated because of the chance of being hurt yet again. My heart has been broken too many times. She broke my heart because I thought I stood a chance, and she was very sweet and kind, but left out the most important fact: that she was engaged. I never forgave her for that. I couldn't even forgive myself. I had fallen for the trap once again, and did nothing to prevent the inevitable heartbreak." Yami sighed. Tonight seemed to be the time for all his sad memories to come forth. 'Wonder what Yugi is thinking of me right now?' he thought sadly. He didn't like to talk about his bad dating-life, after all.
"It can't be that bad," Yugi said, and squeezed Yami's hand reassuringly. "I mean, you are dating me." Somehow, it sounded a bit strained in Yami's ears, as if Yugi hid something. After a few moments, he responded: "Yes, but you are only to stay for a week. That was our deal." He didn't want to look at Yugi at that moment. He didn't want Yugi to see the emotions he knew were swimming in his eyes. The hurt, the uncertainty, the anger, the fear; he just couldn't let Yugi see that. He didn't know what he would do it Yugi saw him as a weak person, as someone to pity. He didn't want to look into Yugi's eyes to see the pity in his amethyst eyes. He just couldn't.
"I know," Yugi responded after some time. "I know we said a week. I know it is nothing but a deal, an agreement of a pretend relationship. But," he hesitated, "things do change. People change. We might be –"
Yami did look at Yugi now, curious of what Yugi was going to say. "We might be – what?"
He saw Yugi bite his lower lip, avoiding his gaze at all cost. "I – I meant…" He sighed. "Never mind."
"No, I will not. What were you going to say?"
Yugi didn't say anything, but did let their eyes meet, if only briefly. That brief eye contact told Yami all he needed to know. He had seen the uncertainty in Yugi's eyes, the unspoken fear of not being able to promise anything. Yugi couldn't promise that he would stay when the week was over. Yami knew that now. He hadn't expected anything else. So why did he feel so disappointed? Yes, he had played with the thought of them being a true couple, but never to such an extent. Yet, he could not deny the fact that he felt hurt by Yugi's unspoken statement.
Maybe this was just another wakeup call. A big one. One that told him that he should be more careful with who he dated. Even so, Yami would enjoy the week he had with Yugi, because he didn't want to forget. He wanted to remember every little thing about him. He wanted to remember all the things they did. Just remember. Remember all the goods things they shared. Then, when the time for goodbye came, it wouldn't be so hard. At least, that's what Yami tried to tell himself, tried to tell his heart, to be ready when that time came. But that time was not now.
They walked on, the awkward silence so thick you could cut it with a knife. Yami almost felt tempted to try, but remembered quickly that he didn't have his pocket-knife with him. Probably a good thing, too. He would've scared Yugi by suddenly pull out his knife out of the blue and cut into thin air. With the way things were between them now, he didn't dare do anything risky. Hell, he didn't dare even say anything, the fear of saying something stupid keeping him silent. God knows he has done that too many times, saying something stupid, hurting others because of it. He was not going to hurt Yugi by opening his mouth.
Something in the back of Yami's head told him that he had forgotten something, but he couldn't for the life of him remember what he had forgotten, not until it suddenly started to pour down again.
"Shit!" He dragged Yugi under the nearest doorway he saw, and silently cursed himself. "Now I remember what I forgot."
"You forgot something?" Yugi asked, the look on his face stating that he hoped it wasn't anything important.
"It's not that important, just – stupid. It was simply stupid of me." He sighed. Yugi silently inquired him. "I forgot my umbrella. We still have about 40 minutes of walking left. It's raining kittens." He didn't have to say anything else, Yugi understood.
"We could call a cab. Or take a bus."
"There aren't any buses going here as this time of night. It's not that late, but the bus does not go here. As for the cab, I am unable to pay for it, and unable to call. My phone is dead."
"No worries. I can call." Yugi looked through his pockets after something, and then glanced up at Yami, looking guilty. "Um, I forgot my cell phone. And my wallet."
Yami could only look at Yugi, before he burst out laughing. He didn't know why he laughed, he couldn't help it.
"I am sorry, Yugi-kun," Yami said, when he had calmed down, "I am not laughing at you."
"No offence taken." Yugi smiled. "You just felt the need to laugh." It wasn't a question, it was a statement.
Yami nodded. "Yes, I just needed to laugh. Strange, huh?"
Yugi shook his head. "It isn't. There are a lot of reasons to why you laughed." He shrugged. "It just happens."
"Yes, it does." Yami looked at the ground. It was already wet, and it continued to pour down. It would probably rain for a long time now, no doubt about it. Deciding to ignore the rain, Yami wrapped his arm around Yugi's waist. "Would you care to take a nightly stroll in the pouring rain?"
Yugi smiled brightly, putting his own arm around Yami's waist. "Yes, I would love to. But we will be soaked through by the time we get home."
"Yes, we will. But there are such things as a warm shower, warm, dry clothing and coffee. Besides, we can keep each other warm under the covers of a cosy warm bed as we listen to the rain falling. Sound pretty good to me."
Yugi laughed. "Yes, it does. Alright then, lets go," he said, and together they stepped out into the rain, ignoring it as they walked in the same pace they had had earlier.
Finally back in the apartment they both pulled off their wet clothing and Yami took them to hang them up, and insisted that Yugi took a shower first. He didn't want to hear of Yugi's protests, and simply shoved him inside the bathroom. Yugi did go then without a single protest, and Yami found a towel to cover himself with for the time being. He put on some water and prepared a cup of tea for Yugi and a cup of instant coffee for himself, too tired to brew some decent coffee. He had finished his coffee when Yugi came out from the bathroom, his hair still damp and his cheeks reddened by the shower.
Yugi threw on some clothes and walked over to the kitchen table, sitting down to drink his tea as Yami then took his turn in the shower.
Steam pouring out the open door as Yami stepped out of the bathroom, he noticed that the only source of light came from the bedroom (he hadn't bothered to have other lights than in the kitchen). Yugi must have gone to bed already. He padded over to the open door, and peeked in. There, on the bed, in the same clothing he always wore to bed, a big cup of tea in his hands, sat Yugi. He was already under the cover, humming 'The music of the night' and smiling to himself.
"I see you are enjoying yourself."
Yugi looked up at his host, his smile widening.
"Yes, I am. I am nice and warm, have a warm cup of tea in my hands, and had a wonderful time with you at the theatre. I am happy."
"Good to hear."
Yami slipped into a pair of sweatpants before making his way under the cover himself. He had barely pulled the cover over his body when Yugi leaned over him to place the now empty cup on the table. He then sat back, leaning into Yami, who placed his arms around the smaller man. For a long time they just sat there, until Yami cleared his throat.
"Yugi-kun, I want to apologise for earlier. For speaking out of line, for jumping you, for –"
"Yami-san!" Yugi interrupted. "It isn't necessary! I forgive you. You didn't know that I used to insecure about my looks. As for the jumping," Yugi blushed, "I didn't mind it. I told you!"
"I know," Yam sighed heavily, tracing his fingers through his unruly hair. "I just feel bad about it."
"Don't. What's done is done. It's in the past. We can't go back in time and change it, no matter how much we want to sometimes. Let it go."
Yami looked at Yugi. Yugi was staring at the elder, so cute and adorable and beautiful. He just couldn't say so to that face. And Yugi was right. Nothing good came from dwelling on the past.
"Alright. I will," Yami said, smiling at the other, who smiled back. They shared a few kisses and then just looked at each other. After some time of doing nothing but stare, Yami gave a huge yawn, and Yugi snickered.
"Someone's tired," he said.
"Yes, it seems so. Perhaps it is a good idea to turn off the light. If that is okay with you," Yami said.
"Yes, it's fine. If I don't fall asleep immediately, I can just listen to you breathe. It is very calming." Yugi's cheeks flushed a little.
Yami chuckled. "Sounds nice," he said, giving another yawn. He turned to the nightstand to fiddle with his alarm clock, turned off the light and then settled down further under the cover, feeling how Yugi snuggled closer to him.
"A few days ago, you felt bad about sharing a bed with me. Now you are keen to be close to me," Yami said, amused. Yugi flushed more brightly.
"Yes, and? I am just more comfortable with you."
"Yes, you are, and I think it is nice. I didn't mean anything bad about it. It was a mere observation."
"All right then." Yugi yawned loudly. "Heh. Seems you are not the only one who is sleepy."
"Well, then, time to sleep," Yami muttered, drawing Yugi closer to him, loving the warmth he received from the smaller man.
Both gave a wistful sigh, and closed their eyes to sleep. Yami didn't think, he only felt, felt the warm breath on his neck, as he slowly fell asleep, with Yugi in his arms.
Kichiko: To explain the little interruption earlier in the chapter. We really wanted to put in a story of the theatre, simply because it sounded like an awesome idea! And we dug up information on buildings for the right century, and wanted to make it sort of similar to the phantom of the opera (the place he lived, that is, with all the hidden corridors and the hidden basement), and some tragic stories along the way. But the task was impossible! So if anyone is interested, then either send a mail, or just imagine your own thing around it. We are so sorry for this, it just wouldn't be written, and we have been using too long time on this chapter, so we will try to make it up to you by writing a great fifth chapter!
Chrino: Who says that there will be a fifth chapter? I am not happy with the fourth chapter, at all. There could be a lot of improvements.
Kichiko: Well, it is the way it is. Yes, there have been a lot of ups and downs and things that had been added out of the blue, and this chapter has been nothing but a roller coaster ride, but you can update it later on if you want to fix it. And who says that there wont be a fifth chapter? Of course there will be a fifth chapter. We can't end it here…
Chrino: (silence) I don't think I will continue this story.
Kichiko: Wha- wait, what? You can't stop now! The readers are expecting the next chapter! They are expecting us to finish the story!
Chrino: No, they are expecting ME to finish it, and I am done! (storms out)
Kichiko: (in complete shock) She can't be serious… is she? Wait! You can't do this!
I am so sorry, dear readers, she must have a rough time right now to say she wants to quit. She loves to write! I can't believe this is happening… Please hang around, and I will see what I can do to convince her to write the next chapter… Well, I'll see you around, I hope. (wanders off with a huff after the author) Come back here! You have some explaining to do, young lady!
