I hate proofreading. D

On we go.

-

Ryou yawned as he leant forward over the return counter at Target. So far, work today hadn't been too bad. He'd only finished two hours of his five hour shift today, so it did leave time for things to pick up, however. It only two o'clock, and most people had yet to come home from work to shop. It didn't matter much to the white haired teen though. He was just glad to actually be able to get out of his house for the first time in a few days.

He lifted his bicep to let a small cough out into his sleeve. He was still sick but it wasn't as severe as it had been. His throat hurt and he was still coughing, but his fever was long gone. Thankfully, along with his fever had left his dizzy spells, which was what tied him down so badly in the first place. Though he had a few minor set backs, he was still feeling great about being back to work and school. Besides, he hated having to miss days just for something stupid and insignificant like being sick, especially when he was needed around. Though…

A small smile played on his lips. It hadn't been that bad being home for a few days, thanks to Bakura-not to mention the fact that ever since Saturday, he hadn't left. He gushed to himself in his mind, thinking about his amber-eyed boyfriend. He was still in complete awe that Bakura had actually spent that much time with him when he didn't really have to. He would've just been happy to have him Saturday only, but…

Bakura had stayed until today, and who knew? Maybe, if Ryou was lucky…he'd stay over again into Thursday. He, of course, wouldn't ask that of him though. Bakura had been at his house a while and he imagined, Bakura was probably secretly itching to get some time alone for himself. But then again, Bakura didn't really seem like he cared. He had been in such high spirit's the entire time they had been together. In fact, being sick was actually fun compliments of Bakura. It was so nice not to have to be alone for once in his quiet apartment, especially when he was ill. Before, he absolutely loathed being sick because it did mean time by himself doing absolutely nothing at home but with Bakura there, they did so much! They played video games, board games, watched movies, and Bakura even attempted to -cook- for Ryou. Well…

He bit back a laugh, remembering the slightly burnt dinner. Sure, it was a little terrible but it didn't matter. Bakura had tried his best and that was all that mattered, even if Bakura's food had possibly made Ryou worse in the long run. It was still just -cute- that Bakura would do that for him, especially when he absolutely hated cooking and hadn't done it before. Bakura was just…too good to him. He kept him fed, entertained, and made sure he had his medicine on time. The whole time, he felt so happy-maybe that was why it hadn't been so bad, after all.

Even if noone else would hear it, he was sure Bakura was what helped him feel better so fast. Sure, he wasn't all the way healed but thanks to Bakura, he was getting there fast and he was sure if Bakura wouldn't have been there, it might not have been that way. He sighed deeply, tracing a finger pad along the counter, eyes watching as it drew an invisible pattern. God, he didn't understand; what had he done to deserve someone so great to him? Bakura was so perfect and he felt so guilty sometimes because he wasn't sure he deserved something so…

And even after two hours, it was all he could think about. He was so dazed, he just couldn't get Bakura off his mind. How was it possible that seeing Bakura all week had only made his desire for the male worse? He was already missing Bakura's voice; he just wanted to get off work so he could call him, or even possibly see him and be able to kiss his warm lips and…

Ryou jumped when he came out of his little trance, rung out by someone calling him.

"Hey, h-hello?"

"Oh my! I'm sorry!" Ryou yelped, face flushing as he met the stranger's eyes. The woman chuckled, giving off an easy shrug.

"It's alright, really. I didn't mean to startle you!"

"N-No really! I wasn't paying attention! Uhm, did you need to make a return?" Ryou asked, trying to regain his composure. 'Don't think about him right now. Just do your job, dummy!'

"Yes!" The woman set the familiar plastic bag with red dart board symbols all over it in front of him. "This just isn't working for me." Ryou nodded and removed the item, finding an opened curling iron container and the curling iron itself, cord swiveled around it. His hand reached into the bag to search for the receipt and was in luck, clutching it in two fingers.

His eyes read over the small black font and he found it to have been purchased by a credit card. His fingers typed into the computer and he gazed to the screen before he looked at the firehaired woman again. "Do you have the card you purchased this with?"

"Oh, of course!" She pulled the plastic object from her coat pocket and handed it to him.

"You can go ahead and swipe it and then it should be all done!" She did just that and moments later, he pulled out a receipt for her to sign and then it was a matter of stapling it to her old one, handing it to her, and she was gone and off, leaving Ryou back to his own little fantasy world of Bakura.

He turned around for a moment, turning his head up to the ceiling. What was Bakura doing right now, anyways? He leant his back against the counter and bit his lip in thought.

"You know, you really should face the other way or you'll never know if you have customers or not."

A gasp and Ryou whirled around, smile taking over Ryou's face completely. "Bakura!"

-

"Bakura!" Ryou all but screamed. Bakura snorted amusedly, leaning in to kiss his surprised boyfriend's lips softly. Geez, could Ryou ever hide his feelings in the least? Still, it made the older male feel good somehow, to know that just showing off his stupid face in this store made Ryou practically die of happiness.

"You know, you could be a bit quieter. You act like you haven't seen me in years, Ryou." Ryou's face burned suddenly, a hand lifting up to touch his lips gently. Bakura had just kissed him in public, in front of all his coworkers and his manager on the job and geez; he wasn't sure if he was really allowed to do that, uhm, in uniform while working but…

Holy shit! Bakura was here and Ryou's heart was hammering in his chest and Bakura's lips were so warm and inviting and he wished he were anywhere else so Bakura could've taken it to the next level.

"I!" He stopped for a moment, coughing into his hand suddenly. 'Dammit!' soon this fucking cough would be gone and he could talk to Bakura normally without having to stop, unable to proclaim his deep adoration for the male a few seconds longer. God, he had it bad. When had Bakura become the only thought left in his head? He swore, it was true what they said about love-it really was making him stupid.

"Geez, calm down, idiot. You're going to make yourself get sicker if you keep being so damn jumpy over little things." Bakura rolled his eyes, hand reaching out to rest itself upon Ryou's free one perched on the counter. Ryou nodded, hand breaking away when his coughing spell was finished to reveal the same dopy grin. He just couldn't believe it; his Bakura here, at his work-and he just realized, Bakura was holding a large paper sack. Curiosity overtook Ryou; what did he have with him?

"Sorry! I just never expected…I'm so happy to see you!" He blurted out, making Bakura raise a brow. Ryou was so strange sometimes, Bakura didn't understand. Nevertheless, though he wasn't about to scream it out for everyone to hear like Ryou, he was happy to see Ryou too, especially because he looked so alive and well. He hadn't been lying about feeling good just to be able to jump back into school and work and really was doing better. It made Bakura feel relieved.

"Yes, yes, I believe you established that when you screamed my name out for the whole store." He paused, turning around to see a few of the workers at the purchasing registers eyeing them peculiarly. "Save it for sex babe, really," he purred, cocky grin spreading across his lips, leaning in closer to Ryou.

Ryou rolled emerald hues, glaring at the male playfully. "Don't say that while I'm working Bakura! You're going to get me in trouble-and besides, you already kissed me while I'm on duty and I am already going to be in so much-" And dammit, he wasn't even done rambling before Bakura did it again, and dumbass him…

He succumbed so easily. His lips were parting slightly for Bakura, and Bakura was nibbling tenderly at his lower lip, chuckle rumbling in his throat. "Naughty, naughty. Last I checked, Ryou-bug, it was you letting me kiss you, not me forcing," he hissed lowly, nudging their noses together. Ryou's eyes were closed and his lips were trembling, awaiting Bakura's next move. He could feel Bakura's lucid breath on his skin and he wanted him so badly, suddenly, it was almost unbearable. Why did he have to be working and even moreso…

Why did he want Bakura to just grab him right here, right now, and force him onto the counter beneath him? 'Shut up brain, shut up! Not right now!'

"I…" Ryou's eyes opened, hazed over from their kiss, left completely mesmerized as always. Bakura grinned, giving him a kiss on the chin before he pulled away, leaving Ryou silently begging for more.

"Ryou, you're too easy, really." Ryou about choked when he heard yet another familiar voice not far off. Diabound was standing there, rolling his eyes knowingly as he walked back behind the counter. Bakura, as well, was not too pleased with the presence of said person. His dark eyes slitted and he eyed the male pointedly. Why the hell did he always come out of no where to ruin times like this?!

"D-Diabound! I'm sorry, I just-"

"Go away, you fucking freak! Jesus! Don't you have work to do?!" Diabound broke into a hearty laugh, hand settling at his chiseled abdomen.

"Oh dear little brother, I can see you're pleased as always to see me. But Bakura, brother, I'm a bit busy so your visit to me is a but futile, as I am quite busy right now!"

…Bakura's left eyeball was starting to twitch. Ryou gulped as he noticed. He gave Bakura's hand a reassuring squeeze and smiled apologetically into his eyes. 'Please, don't fight here Bakura, please don't start fighting here…'

And Bakura opened his mouth to retort to his very fucking annoying brother but decided to keep to himself, as he didn't want to get Ryou into trouble. He swallowed his bitchy words for now and turned away from his brother, facing Ryou.

"Heheh, I didn't even see you Diabound. Uhm, you're back from your lunch break already?"

The male grinned from his brother to Ryou and nodded chastely. "Yep, just got back. And what a surprise to find my sweet little brother here as well. I'm shocked; he never came to visit me, Ryou! I guess you just mean so much more to my brother than his own poor sibling! My heart aches, suddenly!" And he threw his hand over his forehead dramatically and sighed. "I just-"

"…Goafuckingwaybeforeicomebehindthatcounterandpunchyouinthenuts!" Bakura was trying so hard to contain himself but he couldn't do it when his brother just -kept- going! Bakura tensed up, hand with the bag in it fisting tightly. If only he were at home so he could punch his brother pointedly in the face.

"Alright, alright! Point taken!" Diabound snorted and walked past Ryou to the employee-restricted hall. "I'll just go sit all alone in the break room so you two can have your "moment." He snickered and went off, leaving a very mortified Ryou.

Ryou sighed, eyes closing for a moment. "Your brother is just too much sometimes."

"Chh, try more like he is a crabass every chance he gets," Bakura muttered, a sulk forming on his lips. "Why do you have to work with that thing, anyways?"

Ryou smiled apologetically, squeezing Bakura's hand once again. "I'm sorry. But anyways, how was your day anyways? Was school okay?"

Bakura shrugged, hand lifting to set the sack atop the counter. "It was good til I saw his face. But yeah, much better now that school is out for the day and since I'm here harassing you." He smirked slightly, letting go of Ryou's hand. He went to dig into his sack, pulling out a white container and a plastic fork. "I ordered some food for you too, from that one Mexican place you said you liked. I didn't know what to pick but I hope quesadillas are alright?"

Ryou beamed, nodding wildly. "Yes! That's great, thanks! You really didn't need to, Bakura, gosh. You do way too much already." Bakura grinned, arm extending to drift fingers over Ryou's cheeks.

"Maybe, but I can't monitor whatever you eat if I'm not at work with you, so this is the next best thing. When is your lunch break, anyways?"

Ryou frowned disappointedly. "Not for another hour, but…" He smiled happily, fingers curving around Bakura's. "Thank you."

"Yeah, yeah, whatever." Bakura waved it off as if he barely cared but inside, he did feel that same pride welling within him. "So, what are you going to do after work then, hmm?"

"Well…" And then it dawned on Ryou-his phone call from earlier! "Oh!" But what if Bakura didn't want to? It was kind of a lame plan, but he really did want to introduce Bakura to his friends and visa-versa and this was as good a way as any, right? He just hoped Bakura wouldn't think he was stupid for suggesting it. "My friend…uhm."

Bakura raised an eyebrow in interest. "Spit it out."

"Well…he wanted to know if you wanted to go out tonight…"

"Out?" Bakura questioned. "To where?"

"Well…" Ryou could feel his cheeks heating up. "On a kind-of double date-thing…"

Hell.

No.

Bakura had -enough- experiences with double dates and his last one still left a sour taste in his mouth. Besides, double dating was such a…womanly thing to do and Bakura was -not- womanly and really didn't take pleasure in going on a date with two people he barely knew/probably wouldn't like. His mouth was gaping open and he was trying adversely not to just scream out no-fucking-way but…

Ryou looked so hopeful. His eyes were wide and he looked worried seeing that Bakura hadn't answered yet. Shit. Why was he letting fucking Ryou do this to him? "Err…"

Ryou's smile fell. He could read the distaste so easily in the way Bakura screwed up his facial features. Bakura thought it was stupid and now he was thinking Ryou was the same for suggesting it. His mood sunk a little and he shook his head, dismissing his own invitation. "Nevermind. We don't have to. I just wanted you to meet Yuugi but it can wait."

…Bakura felt like shit. He wanted to say no so damn bad. A double date and this could not end good, especially if Ryou's friends were like him, but stuck up and so straight edge he could puke? But Ryou really wanted him to meet this…person. He was defeated by his lack of better judgment. He couldn't believe himself; seriously. This was so going to end up blowing up in his face later, but… "No." He sighed, "I want to go. Let's go so I can meet this…Yuugi-friend of yours." Ryou looked to him unsurely, but smiled.

"A-Are you sure?" 'Are you fucking kidding me? Of course I'm not. I don't want to do this at all! Why are you so fucking cute?!'

"Yeah." He tried to keep himself from drowning in his own self-loathing. "I want to." 'Though 'want' is such a loosely defined word…'

Ryou beamed from ear to ear and even if Bakura wanted to slap himself in the face for agreeing with his disaster, he knew by the look on Ryou's face he did the right thing. Fucking conscience; it always screwed him over somehow.

"Great! I'll call Yuugi and tell him! I'll meet you at your house after work then?"

"Yep, sounds good." 'Though by good, I really meant terrible.' "Well, I should get going so you can go back to work." He smirked slightly at Ryou, taking his bag and stepping away from the counter.

"I gotta go and let you get back to work. Besides, I have a house call to make so." He rolled his eyes in displeasure. "Eat your food, fatty, and I'll see you later."

Ryou giggled, nodding. "Alright! See you tonight 'Kura!"

"Yep." And Bakura whirled around to stalk away, free hand slipping into his jeans pocket.

Holy hell, he hated double dates.

-

Had Bakura mentioned he was absolutely dreading this? Here he sat at the bar of Jillian's gaming restaurant, feeling as if he could hurl. He wasn't necessarily nervous, he just had a growing knot in his stomach. Yuugi… His nose cringed at the name. There was something about 'Y' names he really didn't like. He didn't know why, but every 'Y' person he had ever come to know was absolutely awful in every aspect, especially a certain person, but god…

He took a deep breath, eyes closing. He was completely free of that certain moron since he was out of high school. As far as he knew, that -thing- was off at some dumb university in the US like he had always bragged about doing, playing hockey on a scholarship.

But Yuugi… Ryou was a good judge of people, so there couldn't be much wrong with this person, could there? He was sure he was probably just some nice, boring friend of Ryou's and everything would go fine-yet, why was he dreading it so much?

Either way, he was going to attempt to endure this for Ryou's sake. He peered to the male who sat next to him, sipping on a Sprite adorably. When he noticed Bakura was looking at him, he gave him a smile and leant his head on his shoulder for a moment.

"They should be here any second, I swear. Yuugi said they were only a couple of minutes away in his last text."

"Huh." Bakura nodded, arm linking itself around Ryou's waist, holding him possessively. Maybe it would be okay. "And what kind of person does this…Yuugi person date?"

"Oh! I'm not sure but…" Ryou lifted his head, screwing up in face in contemplation. "He's only said a little about him but he says he's great. I just know he's in college and he plays some kind of sport, baseball? Oh, wait, no!" Ryou gasped, "Maybe it was hockey?"

Bakura's body froze. No, no, no. -He- was in America, far, far away…

"I see…" Bakura turned around and what he saw nearly made his eyes pop out of his head.

'No.

No, no, no, no, no, no! This cannot fucking be happening, not in a million goddamn years! No, it is a coincidence and he isn't even coming this way! NO!' The sight Bakura had absolutely dreaded the most in the back of his mind was suddenly reality. Not only was Yami fucking -here- but he was coming right towards them with a smaller version of himself. Uh-uh, uh-uh…

Oh fuck.

Ryou beamed, seeing the two, waving an arm. "Oi, Yuugi!" He called. Bakura stared. He stared until he swore his eyes were going to pop out of their sockets. He absolutely -loathed- Yami Motou, completely, down to the pit of his black, alcohol-filled heart. Why did god hate him so much?

Yami, as well, did not look pleased. He was eyeing Bakura about the same, Bakura could tell, even if he tried to hide it behind that arrogant fucking -smirk- he always wore! By the moment, Bakura was feeling less and less confident that he could keep his cool after all.

"Ryou, hi!" The smaller of the two tri-color haired men chirped, beaming at the two. Bakura, for a moment, whirled around on his bar stool and gritted his teeth. "How are you?! Sorry if we're late!"

"Oh, it's really okay! So, you must be Yami?" Ryou prided himself on remembering the name.

However to Bakura…the name sounded so sick and disgusting, even coming from Ryou's sweet voice. Bakura seriously wanted to hurl.

"Yes, that's me, Ryou. It's nice to meet you. Yuugi told me a lot about you," he said politely, smiling. "I wanted to meet you sooner but unfortunately, jumbling sports, work, and school all the same gets to be a little much sometimes." Bakura was seriously going to fucking vomit. There he went again, acting like he was some goddamn savior, like his life was so hard and glorious people should feel sorry for him.

Bakura sat there, dreading when he would be summoned by Ryou. 'I should've said 'no', I should've said 'no'!' His hands were cupped in his lap, squeezing one another.

"Oh, I completely understand!" Ryou chimed back. "I'm just glad you found the time." 'Fuck Ryou, don't be. He isn't worth your time, really.'

His stomach curled. It was coming, he knew it was coming. "And! This is my boyfriend, Bakura!" Crap. Really, Bakura just wanted to drown himself in his lemonade. He, grudgingly, turned around. He couldn't even fake a smile. He just eyed both darkly, unable to turn his gaze away from Yami, who's smirk only grew.

"Ahh Bakura. I haven't seen you for a while. I think last I heard, you were passed out in Mariku's yard in your own vomit?" Bakura bit his tongue, and hard. God, his hand was just itching to rip out those ugly spikes upon Yami's head. Ryou blinked widely, turning from Yami to Bakura surprisedly.

"Hnn. We've met," he said coldly, answering Ryou's questioning gaze. "I thought you were supposed to be gone." He didn't even try to sound nice about it. Fuck pleasant; this person didn't deserve anything but the worst.

Yami grinned, arm wrapping around his -very- short boyfriend's shoulders. Bakura eyed him for a moment. He looked a little frightened, he noticed, as the male glanced to Bakura and looked away quickly. And Ryou; Bakura had completely forgotten about him. He looked to his side, finding Ryou watching him with an uncertain expression. "Yes, well, this summer, I met Yuugi and I just couldn't leave him behind so…" He gazed down lovingly to the boy beside him. The two smiled at each other, making Bakura's food seriously shoot up a little. "I decided to just stick with Domino U, though I did have many other options."

"Fucking prick," Bakura murmured under his breath. Ryou's eyes widened and he looked to Bakura speechlessly. Oops; Bakura hadn't really meant for him to hear that. "I can only imagine with how unbelievably smart and talented you are." 'Asshole.' "Though, I thought that hockey stick to your head would've kept you out a little longer. A shame-I mean, that it even happened at all." Yeah right. He wasn't sorry; as far as he was concerned, Yami deserved it for being the same pompous bitch he always was.

And he looked to Ryou, then decided to avoid to for the rest of the evening because Ryou was starting to look less-than pleased. That was fine though, Ryou just didn't understand how obnoxious this guy was.

"Indeed. I almost lost sight because of that, but I'm glad you're happy I was okay. You're always so kind, Bakura, just like when you took my gym bag and you and your little friend Mariku decided to dump all my expensive sports equipment out our school's roof for a joke. That was so funny Bakura, really. I almost died laughing. Thank god you're not selfish and are always thinking of the other person, trying to make them cheer up." And a flame ignited was beginning to ignite within Bakura. Four years of pure hatred were filling Bakura once again like a flood.

"Oh, you want to talk about funny? Let's not forget the time you fucking ratted me out for smoking in 9th grade. Yeah, being suspended from school for two weeks was just hilarious-oh! Or the time your phone just happened to contain a picture of me smoking pot got to the teacher, which got to my brother, the principal, and my parents and got me sent to fucking rehab! Let's not forget that because that was really hilarious!" Bakura's eyes swelled with pure anger, unable to turn away from Yami, who was now looking at him with the same fervor.

"And how many times do I have to fucking tell you? It was your idiot friend who sent me the picture and it just happened to be on my phone when the teacher snatched it out of my hand!"

Bakura stepped forward, fist drawn. "It doesn't matter! You could've done anything to keep her from fucking seeing it! But you know what? Once a traitor, always a traitor, isn't that right?!"

"Bakura, please just stop!" Ryou cried, grabbing his boyfriend's arm tightly. Bakura glared as Yami dared to open his mouth. He turned to Ryou and suddenly, he felt horrible. The boy looked so frightened and distraught. He couldn't help himself though; there was just too many things Yami had done in the past to keep him from being able to remain civil around him. Bakura's eyes met Ryou's and he could tell Ryou was pleading. "I…let's just go play pool or something, alright? Just anything!"

"Y-Yes, uhm, that sounds good!" Yuugi chirped, gulping as he looked between his boyfriend and Bakura. Yami's eyes lowered and he pulled Yuugi closer.

"Yes, that sounds great," he ground out, giving Bakura a look of deep loathing before leading the way.

Bakura couldn't handle it; his arms fell limply to his sides. He turned away from Ryou and folded his arms over his chest, unable to even look at him. He hadn't meant for Ryou to hear about him and smoking pot at all, nor that he had been to rehab. He didn't want him to find out like that, all because of that idiot who seemed to always ruin everything…

How had he -ever- been that person's friend? But the Yami he knew in middle school and the Yami now were not the same at all. Just as then, he felt the same. The Yami he knew would've never sold his best friend out to people and got him in trouble simply for entertainment. No; high school had changed Yami and for the worst. Ever since ninth grade, he had been nothing but a people-pleasing brat who did every single thing only for a little recognition. This Yami was a sell out and a shell of the person he knew and there was no way Bakura was ever going to accept anything else.

-

And as for Ryou, he was actually quite annoyed. Though it seemed there was trouble between Yami and Bakura, Bakura could've been the bigger person and just ignored it, but no; Bakura had to fight it with his own sets of insults, making it worse for everyone. He couldn't just keep it to himself, could he? Sometimes, he just didn't understand why it was so hard for Bakura to just keep his opinion to himself, like right now, when tension was so high. Did he really need to make things worse?

And not only that but…

Bakura had failed to mention he had done drugs before. Yes, Ryou knew he had smoked cigarettes previously and that he was a heavy drinker but smoking pot, really? Ryou frowned at the idea of his boyfriend sitting around with his friends, taking hits. It wasn't so much that he had done them as much as he had never even told Ryou anything about it. And even more so…

Rehab? When had Bakura done that?! Ryou would've really have liked to know… And Bakura hid it from him, because why? Did he not deserve to know the truth? He eyed the ground as they made their way to the pool table. Why didn't Bakura ever tell him anything?

He couldn't help but be a little mad at his boyfriend. Didn't Bakura understand? He just wanted to know Bakura-really know Bakura, and everything about him, even bad things. He didn't like finding out things from someone else. He just wished Bakura would talk to him more and tell him more about himself instead of shutting it all in!

"So us against you? Is that alright?" Ryou blinked at the soft voice and he feigned a smile.

"Yes, that's fine, Yuugi. You guys can start!" Ryou didn't even look at Bakura, but that was fine with Bakura. Right now, he didn't need Ryou's disappointed gaze to know he was wrong in how he acted. Really, it would only make how he felt worse.

Bakura watched Yami, who was quiet as well, setting up the balls just right. He took his poolstick and got in position to make the best shot possible. Bakura was very unenthused, because he already -knew- exactly how this game would go, like most games with Yami. Yami closed one eye like the arrogant jerk he was and made his shot, getting a good three balls in easily.

"Twat," Bakura muttered, biting his bitter tongue as Yami and Yugi laughed and high-fived each other. Then, Yami took one more shot, getting in yet another ball. Bakura frowned moodily. He turned his eyes to Ryou for a moment who, he noticed, was looking at him too. He quickly turned away as if he hadn't noticed and just tried to fluh away all the sounds around him.

It was Yami's third shot and he missed, though he almost got another two in but they slid just barely out of reach of the wholes. Bakura sighed, knowing it was now their turn to go.

"You can go, Bakura…" Ryou trailed off gently, attempting to make eye contact with him. He avoided the boy's gaze once again and went to the table to take his turn. The balls were scattered around the table but he noticed a couple that were within a target range. He crouched down a little and maneuvered his stick until he had it just as he liked. He made his shot and to his surprise, knocked two in at the same time. He smirked proudly, stalking past Yami to get to the other side of the table, brushing against his shoulder roughly.

Yami growled but said nothing, though Yuugi glanced up to him worriedly. "So Bakura, u-uhm…what exactly do you do-err, I mean, going to school and such?" Yugi piped out, attempting to make conversation and erase away the awkwardness.

Bakurra stopped midmove and looked to Yuugi, eyebrow raised. Why did Yuugi give a damn? "Falcon Heights Technical College, and I'm studying computer maintenance, pretty much," he answered dryly, turning away to finish making his shot. Just as he was about to collide with the 8 ball, a snide remark took him by surprise.

"Huh, you actually went to college? I figured you'd be in jail and out on the streets. " Needless to say, Bakura was caught off guard and accidentally shot cue ball into one of the opposing teams balls and they both fell into a pocket, furthering Bakura's pissy mood.

"And I expected you to be dead and gone by now because you never have been able to shut that fat ass mouth of yours!" Now, all the people around them were staring and Bakura was looking at his opponent like he was about to murder him on the spot. Ryou and Yuugi were tense again and Bakura was -so- ready to pummel that person's face. He just couldn't handle it! How long was Yami going to shove it in his face that half of his grade school life was shit?!

He'd never forgive Yami, not ever, and he was no better off than Bakura was. At least Bakura wasn't afraid to admit all the dumb things he had done, unlike Yami. Yami smoked and drank too, later on, after blubbering to Bakura about how wrong it was. Some morals that guy had, ne?

"And you've never been able to make a smart move in your life, have you? How are you even in school when your brain is so fried from all the drugs you've done?!"

"Oh, drugs?" Bakura sneered. "You mean like the ones you started doing after you started hanging out with all those idiot jocks? Don't try and act like you're so much better, Yami! You're just as awful as me, quitr pretending you're some fucking god! No wonder all of your old friends hate you so much!" And now, even usually cool Yami was coming undone. He was stalking up to Bakura, mere inches away from the male. Bakura, however, didn't look scared, just angrier that Yami even dared to attempt to intimidate him. What was he? 4 foot 2?

"I only tried it once because I was practically forced and it wasn't that amazing! Everything else was just lies to keep my friends liking me!"

"Yeah, of course, because if they knew the real you like we all do, they'd hate you just as much!"

"Please, just stop! This is ridiculous!" Bakura and Yami both snapped out of it and whirled to their left to find Ryou, clutching his mouth surprised ly at the other side of the table. When he saw they were both staring, and Yuugi as well, he sighed and removed his hand, eyeing the two males angry.

"P-Please! Enough; this is just childish and the more you fight the worse it gets! Can we please just finish the game?" Ryou looked at them all pleadingly, puasing on Bakura. "Please?"

"Fine," Bakura ground out, stalking away from Yami. He folded his arms crossly and went to stand against the wall, away from them all. This was just getting to the point wherei t was unbearable; Ryou just didn't understand, there just was no way he'd -eve-r be able to stand Yami Motou, not ever.

"M-My turn!" Yuugi went quietly and made his move, though Bakura took no notice whether he made it or not. He just closed his eyes for a moment and attempted to take a few deep breaths before he completely lost it.

'Try not to say anything and keep your mouth shut. Just try and…' "I got one!" He heard a cry from Ryou, who was laughing, surprised obviously that he had made a shot.

"Yami's face lit up in interest. "Ryou, haven't you ever made a shot or played before?"

Ryou shook his head, smiling. "Nah. I've played before but I'm not too good so I just like watching."

"Huh." Yami gaze tilted to Bakura, who, though he was calming down, became instantly aflame again. "Bakura's good, so I'm surprised he didn't bother to show you." Bakura gritted his teeth. Why did everyone always have to fucking act like he was supposed to guess exactly what Ryou wanted to do? How would he have ever known whether Ryou was good at pool or not?!

"Oh, well, Bakura's busy often, so we don't have too much time to play."

"Oh, really?" Yami grinned. "Bakura must be changing quite a lot then, lately, because all the Bakura I knew did was drink."

"Would you shut the hell up you starfish-headed freak! Jesus Christ, shut your mouth because I am seriously goin-"

"BAKURA STOP!" Ryou wailed, glaring harshly at the male as he was moments away from hitting a wide-eyed Yami.

Bakura's head whirled to turn to Ryou, looking absolutely livid. "Why the hell are you taking his side?! He's the idiot who always has to go gabbing his mouth!"

"But returning it is no better! Bakura, you're acting ten!"

"And he's so much fucking better, isn't he? Fuck Ryou, just take his and your friend's side, whatthefuck ever. Sorry, but I'm out because this is just too much to fucking handle!" Ryou gasped, running forward to grasp Bakura's hand tightly.

"B-But no, that's not what I meant! I think you're both being stupid ab-"

"Just get out of my face, alright?! You already chose your goddamn friends so lets leavei t at that! I can't handle people as dumb as this!" He looked to Ryou icily, making the boy's insides turn.

"And as usual, you let your anger get the better of you Bakura." Yami sneered. "You're no different than before."

"But I-I…please!" Bakura rolled his eyes and tore his hand from Ryou's gasp. He pushed Yami out of the way, leaving all three males and half a room staring at him as he stamped out of the room, eyes burning with animosity. He had to leave, and Ryou; who cared what Ryou was going to do? Right now, he could walk himself home, and he hoped the boy did, and he hoped it poured so hard that it made Ryou -sick- again. Nothing was ever going to change, was it?

Why was it, even when he knew deep down he was right, he somehow, to others, always came out opposite? Sure it had been a little stupid to threaten Yami but Yami always brought up old things and then Bakura did too just to get back and every time they had ever tried to be civil, it just blew up in his face because…

He couldn't handle it. And when he thought of it, there were just so many things he could not take. He was always like a volcano, just waiting for the right moment to erupt. Yami, though he hated to admit it, was right. He hadn't changed, save for downright jumping a person for saying any little thing. That didn't make it different though; he was just as spontaneous and as easily provoked as he was before. He still just couldn't…

He sank to the curb outside the restaurant, placing his head in his palms. He was still a child, just like everyone said. He was always only thinking of himself and not…

He hadn't been thinking of Ryou or his happiness the entire time, or he would've just swallowed his utter loathing and been able to handle the evening with Yami. He promised Ryou he'd go out here tonight and told himself he'd make it alright, no matter what, even if he truly hated Ryou's friends. But he never in a million years expected it to be Yami, or he would've just said "no" flat out. They hadn't gotten along for -years- And everyone that knew them knew that. He just couldn't get it up and sometimes, he wasn't even sure why. He held his grudges so well, but was this idiotic fight really worth making him mad at Ryou over?

He knew Ryou didn't even mean it like Bakura initially thought. He was just trying to get them to stop so they could -try- and have fun but as usual, Bakura wouldn't hear it because it meant having to -give- up and giving up had never been in Bakura's vocabulary or he would've been over this a year back.

But Ryou…

Just a moment ago, he had wished Ryou sick just because Ryou didn't agree with him? What was wrong with him, really? He really cared about Ryou and he had just wished horrible things for him because of a fight that had absolutely nothing to do with him. It made him feel ill to know that his hate for Yami controlled his life, in a sense, the same as it did in high school.

And when he looked at Ryou, Ryou had looked absolutely hurt to the core. Ryou was only looking out for them all, and him as well, and as usual…

Because it wasn't all about him, he couldn't take it. It was just as everyone always told him.

He needed to -grow- the hell up.

-

Two minutes later, a soft voice was ringing out his name. At first, he had thought it was Ryou but when he turned around to see mini-Yami, he was quiet surprised. How did Yami manage to fall in love with someone who looked exactly like him, anyway? It would figure Yami would do something like that seeming as he was so damn narcissistic.

He sighed, lifting his forehead from his palms. "Yes, Yuugi?"

"U-Uhm…I'm sorry. I didn't know that…you didn't like Yami so much," he murmured, stalking closer to stand a little ways behind Bakura. Bakura shrugged nuetrally, eyes boring holes into the asphalt underneath his shoes.

"Why are you apologizing? It isn't your fault."

"I know," Yuugi began, stepping a little closer. He exhaled and took a seat beside Bakura, hands folding in his lap. "But…still, I've never seen him act like this before. I don't even see him get mad. It's just a shock, you know? I didn't expect him to say all those things. He really shouldn't have."

"No," Bakura agreed, "He shouldn't have." However, even if what Yami said was inappropriate, what he had done was no better-he didn't need anyone to tell him that much. And Ryou…

He couldn't believe he had yelled at him for such a pointless reason. What if Ryou had been seriously hurt by his childish outburst? What would he do then? Would his lousy apologies be of any worth?

Yuugi opened his mouth to speak but was interrupted when Bakura spoke again. "And…Ryou?" Yuugi smiled slightly, peering to the male beside him.

"He's up there talking to Yami. He's scared you won't speak to him mostly, I think. You know…he really likes you, Bakura. I haven't seen Ryou as happy as he's been in a while. I don't think he meant harm with his words though." Yuugi bit his lip, searching for the right words to say. "Please… don't let this affect things with him. I don't want Yami to get between you too," Yuugi admitted honestly. He wrapped his small arms around his legs and leant forward a little. "I'd hate to see Ryou hurt because of this."

From what Yuugi said, it sounded as if Ryou wasn't too angry with him and that was his main worry. He knew he'd hate himself if this was a reason for their downfall. No, Yuugi was right; he couldn't let idiot Yami come between him and Ryou. Ryou was his and he wasn't going to break up or fight with Ryou over something so miniscule. He'd go in there, take that frail boy into his arms…

And he'd embrace and squeeze him until his body broke, because that was the only way Bakura thought he could get his message through. He'd suck it up and quit being so immature and he'd…smile, even if it was only pretend, because goldsmith, he wasn't going to be an ass anymore and ruin Ryou's good time. Ryou just got over being ill and Bakura was not going to make him feel wretched again.

He swore to himself, right then and there, he was not going to yell at Ryou ever again because Ryou didn't deserve it. The fight was with Yami and that was who it would remain with. If he felt like blowing his fuse and punching that bastard in the face, he'd do it when Ryou wasn't anywhere near. "I see," Bakura commented low, looking to Yuugi. "I…"

He really hated to admit he was wrong but for some reason, he felt compelled. He took a deep breath and turned away, standing up. "I'm sorry. For being a douche."

Yuugi laughed and nodded, following Bakura's lead, rising to his feet. "it's alright. I think…most people would get mad in that situation. But we should really go back in and finish our game before our hour goes by!"

"Yeah…" Bakura trailed off. He stopped for a moment to watch Yuugi go ahead. Maybe…the little squirt wasn't that bad. Maybe.

-

When he caught sight of Ryou, he was talking with Yami and smiling, obviously having calmed down the male quite a bit. Bakura frowned as he drew near, feeling somewhat nervous, though he wasn't sure why. After all, Yuugi had said Ryou wasn't mad and he knew Ryou well enough to know that he wouldn't hold a grudge for long. Ryou would likely be oozing into his arms the moment he was let into them but for some reason, even the thought that Ryou -might- be upset by it made Bakura edgy.

Ryou's gaze followed his shorter friend, which soon landed on a familiar face, making Ryou's smile fade. He quickly turned away, not sure what he should do when Bakura drew closer. 'What if he hates me now…? I didn't mean to…'

But Bakura made his feelings known the moment he came to the pool table. He didn't dare to look at Yami and only put his arm around his boyfriend's waist, pulling him in for a small kiss. Though it was short-lived, Ryou was beaming because he could feel what it meant without any words. All was forgotten and he was quite alright with that and Bakura was too.

Bakura's problems seemed to melt away and he felt unusually great though he had just been in a fight. "So, who's turn was it, anyways?"

-

The rest of the game hadn't been terrible, though, Bakura wouldn't necessarily say it was wonderful, either. He did his best to ignore Yami and the other did exactly the same, trying so much as to not even exchange glances. Even when the game was over and they sat down to have a bite to eat, Bakura still remained nearly silent, just so he wouldn't have any reason as to so much as stir a peep from Yami. He didn't really care though. Ryou knew he wasn't mad at him and that was most important. Besides, Yuugi and Ryou carried most of the conversation and a lot of it had little to do with things Bakura even knew about, so he was alright with being unsociable.

They were almost finished with their cruddy date and finally, Bakura would get to have Ryou all to himself.

"Well, Otogi invited us all to a little gettogether tonight, but I wasn't sure if you both wanted to go or not so I didn't tell him we were coming for sure! Did you want to go though?" Ryou turned to look up to Bakura questionably.

"Did you want to go?" Bakura was just about to open his mouth to say "no" when he realized…

Dammit. Otogi had told him about it a couple of nights ago and he said he would go, mostly because Mariku pretty much badgered him until he agreed. And he was just about to go home and unwind and rid himself of all the bad memories from tonight by pouncing Ryou. "Yeah, for a little bit, I guess." Ryou nodded and gave his boyfriend a smile before turning to Yuugi.

"So, where is it, an-"

"I know him, it's the same guy you met before, Ryou. It's a small world," he murmured, eyes glaring to Yami for a moment before he looked to Yuugi. "We'll meet you there."

Yami noticed this look but decided it wasn't worth fighting back so he just pretended to be oblivious of it. He took his boyfriend's hand and nodded, turning away. "Okay," he said simply, stepping to lead Yuugi off.

"See you guys there then!" Yugi beamed and headed off towards the doors. Bakura and Ryou did the same, Bakura's arm holding Ryou possessively to his side.

"So…is it a big party like last time or…?" Ryou questioned, leaning his head against Bakura's shoulder to gaze up to the male.

"I don't really know. I don't think it is since it's only a Wednesday. They're probably just over there playing video games and drinking beer or something." He smirked slightly, Ryou's forehead. He noticed Ryou's eyes widened for the moment at the mention of beer, likely because last time alcohol was involved, Bakura had turned in to a complete moron.

"I see…" Though Ryou didn't say it, he admitted to himself that he was worried slightly about the turn out. He still wasn't sure about what had made Bakura go weird last time, but he hoped he wouldn't make the same mistake again.

"You don't need to worry though." Bakura shrugged, hand pressing the door open, letting Ryou go out first. "I don't feel up to drinking." 'Mostly because I know what it will make me be like around you.' And he had already upset Ryou enough for one day. He just wanted to take Ryou back home with him, mess around a bit, then take a much needed nap. Besides, he was afraid to keep Ryou out since he was still lower on energy than usual.

"Alright." Ryou couldn't help but smile. A part of him thought he couldn't believe Bakura, but somehow, he did and he had a feeling Bakura not drinking really wasn't a choice Bakura made for himself at all but for Ryou. His heart warmed and he kissed Bakura happily as they made their way to the car, mind still dazed and wondering how he had ever gotten so lucky.

Bakura fished out his keys and unlocked the car so they could start their way to Otogi's.

-

"So, will it be the same people as last time?" Ryou looked up to Bakura, reaching for his hand as they stepped away from the Honda civic. Briefly, he thought of the last time he had been to a party of Bakura's friends. A boy with brilliant lavender hues and bleached blonde locks came to mind. Would he be here? Ryou had never gotten to properly introduce himself, or know the male's name, either. He sighed, pondering back to the moment they had met.

That person had seemed so nice. He had managed to cheer Ryou up a little when he had been feeling so down and he never really got the chance to thank him. Besides, he briefly wondered whatever happened between him and his ex. Did they stop fighting and get back together? Ryou hoped so. That guy had seemed too nice to be so distraught. Yeah… he smiled to the dying grass beneath his shoes. He hoped everything for that person was going alright, and who knew? Maybe they'd meet again and actually get to be friends.

"I don't know. Mariku will be there for sure, and I'm sure Katsuya will, too." Bakura scrunched up his nose. "What is surprising to me though is that they invited that pointy-haired freak. Mariku hates him still, I know, but sometime during the last couple of months, Otogi must have come in contact with him, and Katsuya as well and they must have made up or some shit, though I don't know how-" Bakura paused bitterly, Ryou watching him a tad worriedly. He really wished Bakura would explain in full what happened over the years so Ryou could understand. He wanted to make Bakura feel better but he wasn't sure what to say. Also, he still wondered…

Bakura had been to rehab and did drugs at one point in time? A question rose up in his mind; did Bakura -still- do them when Ryou wasn't around? All these things he wanted to ask, but he wasn't sure right now was the best time.

"Well, we don't even have to stay near Yuugi." Ryou beamed, his boyfriend's eyes lingering on his smile. Bakura nodded, leaning in to kiss the tip of Ryou's nose, making him grin.

"I already planned on not doing so, thanks. I'm a step ahead of you." Though Ryou didn't show it, it made him a little upset to know they really couldn't hang out with Yuugi but that was alright. He just didn't want any drama or for Bakura to get mad…

And he especially didn't want Bakura to yell at him again. He murmured and kissed Bakura's lips in response before turning to start up the flight of stairs to the front door. "No, I think you're confused because I am a step ahead of you." He let go of Bakura's hand and grinned. Bakura caught the gleam in Ryou's eye and chuckled.

"Yeah fucking right, you're so skinny you'll fall over and break before you reach the top!" He cackled and brushed past Ryou, passing him up. Ryou laughed and grabbed Bakura's hand, trying to keep him from reaching the top of the stairs before him.

"You're such a cheater! You can't push me out of the way to win!"

"Well," Bakura stopped, turning around to face Ryou, ember depths staring down into Ryou's amusedly. "How else am I suppose to get your fat butt out of the way then, huh?" He purred, leaning over so his head dangled above Ryou's. Ryou laughed, hand clasping in Bakura's as the other set itself on Bakura's tight abdomen.

"Me, fatter than you? Never. You're just mad because you know I'd win if you couldn't cheat!" Ryou stuck his tongue out, poking Bakura's belly. "I'm just better than you."

"Oh," Bakura began lucidly. "Really?" Ryou nodded confidently, but stopped as soon as Bakura's arms pulled him flush up against his chest. "Well then I guess I'll just have to succumb to you, won't I?" Bakura lapped at his lips, noticing Ryou's stare and the blush creping onto his cheeks.

"Y-Y, you definitely will," Ryou stammered, gulping as Bakura's lips hovered above his own.

"Geez Ryou, you're too easy…" He grinned hungrily and crushed his lips against Ryou's, a rather loud moan accidentally escaping Ryou's mouth. Ryou's hands went limp at his sides, mind numbing. He forgot what to do with his hands, too caught up in Bakura's forceful kiss to do anything else. Bakura's tongue was thrusting against his and his eyes were shut tightly. It felt so wonderful in ways Ryou had never experienced before Bakura, and never wanted to again, not from anyone else. His lips were so hot and Bakura tasted so good. He never really thought about it until Bakura, but somehow…

Bakura made him feel sexy because he was sure he could feel from Bakura's touches, just how badly Bakura wanted him at times. He loved being seeked for by Bakura and it made all these strange, yet desirable feelings rush throughout him. He fucking loved Bakura's touches and loved the fact that right now, he could see and hear nothing but Bakura and Bakura's rushed breathing and the sounds of their kiss filling the night air.

And most of all, he loved the fact that he couldn't lie at all, not to himself or anyone else…

He loved that somehow, Bakura owned him and he couldn't make it stop-and didn't want to.

Just then, the door sprang open and someone let out a rather shocked gasp. "Oh my! S-Sorry!" A feminine voice sounded, eyes closing as the girl turned her head to the side. Ryou and Bakura jumped apart from each other, forgetting all about the fact that currently they stood just about on someone's doorstep.

"Fuck," Bakura hissed underneath his breath. Ryou's foot stumbled and he almost fell backward but was caught by Bakura's arm before he had the chance. He smiled thankfully up at the male then looked to the girl, who's short brown hair was pulled up tightly into a ponytail. She opened one sparkling blue eye carefully, looking rather sheepish as she eyed the two. Realization dawned on Ryou. "A-Anzu?"

"I thought I heard voices outside and my gosh, Ryou!" She smiled and pointed to the male absentmindedly. "I didn't know you knew Otogi or Bakura! Yuugi told me you were dating someone but I would've never…!" Bakura was currently glaring at her, not really sure -why- she hadn't taken notice of his sour look and left yet so he and Ryou could continue on. And just great; more overly optimistic people Ryou knew.

"Well, now that we're all well acquainted, could you please step aside since you interrupted us so graciously?" Bakura sulked and made his way up the stairs stomping. If there was one thing he hated, it was being interrupted.

"Sorry! How was I supposed to know you were going to be making out on Otogi's porch? Sheesh!" She cried, stepping aside to let Bakura through. Ryou followed, giving her an apologetic smile.

"Sorry Anzu," he peeped out, face still red, mortified he had been caught and by a school friend as well.

"Me too, sorry you interrupted us," Bakura grumbled. Anzu rolled her eyes and Ryou averted both their gazes.

"B-But anyways, u-uhm, how are you doing Anzu?"

"Oh, I'm good!" She beamed, looking as if she had forgotten Bakura's rude words. "But what about you Ryou? You look well, at least, from my view of you outside." Ryou shuffled his feet, hand reaching behind his head as he laughed embarrassedly.

"Oh yeah, I'm great! School and work are going well. Is Yuugi here yet?" after all, she would know since she was Yuugi's number one best friend.

Bakura continued to pout and didn't even bother to enter in to the conversation, still brooding about the kiss that had been cut -much- too short. She shook her head, fingers brushing a few bangs out of her gaze. "Oh no, not yet! Didn't go out with you today somewhere?"

"Yes, he actually did." Ryou lifted his free hand to tap on his chin. "They left before us so I figured they'd be here but…" He raised a brow, trying to think of what the could be doing. "Maybe they needed gas or something."

"Chh yeah," Bakura interrupted, "Or they are just parked and screwing somewhere on the side of the road." Ryou and Anzu both gave Bakura dark glances.

"Yeah, or!" Anzu said, turning back to Ryou, shaking her head. She sighed and smiled to him. "I'm sure they'll be here soon though, no matter! I gotta go to the kitchen real quick though. Honda and Malik wanted me to make them drinks."

Royu and Bakura both looked to each other in horror.

'Yikes, Malik…?'

'FUCK MALIK.'

Suddenly, Bakura had the desire to run and get the hell out of this house. His heartbeat began to increase. He hadn't spoken with Malik or heard anything from him since the day they had broken up for good. Though it had been a few weeks, was he ready to face him now? Even though he had Ryou, he still had a lot of built up anger and he still had a few things to say to the male but…

Ryou was looking just as worried as he looked. Why? Had Malik been a thought on Ryou's mind as it had on Bakura's? It was likely for different reasons though. Ryou was probably afraid Bakura would turn on him and be after Malik again the moment they made up. Bakura frowned at this though. He wasn't going to do that and he had no intention of getting back with Malik, nor had he even thought about it. After all, Malik was only good for one thing-of course, that thing was the thing Bakura had seemed to be missing a lot of lately. Even sex was no reason to turn his back on Ryou.

Bakura smiled down at Ryou reassuringly and turned to Anzu. "Ahh, well then, you best get to it. Malik does tend to get pissy when things don't go his way." Anzu laughed some, nodding.

"Indeed he does, just like you." She stuck her tongue out at him then smiled at Ryou. "I'll see you both upstairs!" Anzu's heels clicked as she made her way down from the hallway to the kitchen.

"Bitch," Bakura hissed, making Ryou giggle.

"She really isn't and you do get mad about that, you know?" Ryou said matter-of-factly. "You're just mad 'cuz she caught us."

"Damn right," Bakura agreed sulkily. He wrapped his arms around Ryou's waist and kissed his eyebrow. "I don't -like- when people try to get up in my shit is all." Ryou smiled warmly and leaned in to hug him, head resting on Bakura's shoulder.

"Well, we can have our own time when we leave, ne?" Bakura could settle with that.

"Alright, then come on, let's get this show on the road and go say 'hi' so we can get the hell out." Ryou nodded in agreement.

-

The voices and laughter from upstairs increased with each step. Ryou's heart raced in his chest, unable to turn his thoughts from Malik. What did he look like? What would he be like? Would he be as jerky as Bakura said or would he actually be a nice person? He couldn't be though, not with what Bakura said. He gulped; he just hoped Malik didn't end up being too terrible and if he was…

He just hoped he left Bakura and himself alone because Ryou had enough trouble for one day. He let out a cough as they got close, making Bakura pause as well.

"You okay?" Ryou met worried brown hues and nodded.

"Yes, just my cold actin-"

"Well, well, look who the cat fuzzin' dragged in!" The two turned to the top step, seeing Mariku's head looking down upon them. He grinned wildly, motioning for them to come up. "Hurry! We were just playing Dance Dance Revolution and Otogi bet Jou $20 he couldn't get an 'A' on a light mode song. Jou had a few beers and oh god, he keeps falling everywhere! That idiot is hilarious!"

Bakura looked to his best friend crossly, brow hitched. "Why are you fags playing DDR anyways? Homo much?" Ryou snorted, looking to the stairs. He didn't want to seem rude but even he had to agree. A bunch of college males, playing DDR…?

"I see even boo-boo there thinks you're pretty funny, Bakura," Mariku grinned as a wide-eyed Ryou glanced up at him, thinking he had been unheard.

"Boo-Boo?" Ryou repeated with distaste.

Bakura rolled his eyes. "Don't mind that, he makes up stupid nicknames for everyone. Consider yourself lucky it isn't something worse." He sighed fervently and continued up the stairs.

"Oh Bakura, so angst-y per usual, I see?" Mariku stepped aside to let them up. Bakura reached the upstairs and Ryou as well, Ryou's hold growing tighter as the living room came into view. There was a black futon and a lush leather chair both seating people, some Ryou knew and didn't. The carpet was a boring cream hue and the décor of the room was obviously done by a male, tasteless and cheap with very little detail, save the game and super model posters strewn tactlessly all over the walls. There was a red guitar and a coffee table, containing drink cups, beer bottles, and a few bowls of different snacks. On the floor was an opened and empty pizza box, magazines, dvds, and game boxes piled up near the big screen TV.

Ryou had the urge to clean but forced it down, which wasn't hard when he saw a few people staring at him, some grinning and others not looking so happy, in particular…

Ryou nearly gasped. A lavender-eyed, sandy blonde haired…

'Malik…' And unlike last time, he didn't seem so happy to see Ryou, probably because his ex-boyfriend-the one he was in love with-had his hand clasped with Ryou's. Ryou felt extremely guilty all of a sudden.

"Dammit! Another D!" A roar of laughter filled the room as Katsuya clutched the TV, out of breath.

"Jesus Katsuya, how can you be tired?! You barely played any and light mode isn't even that far!" Katsuya growled, glaring at the brunette who dared to taunt him.

"Sheesh Honda, then you fuckin' try! And anyways, I have 10 more shots before I owe you anything! You haven't beat me y-" Katsuya hiccupped. "But I need a break. Ugh." He fell to the ground, laying atop the mat. "I'm tired…"

"Drunk-ass," a different girl, one Ryou was not accustomed with, said, a smirk on her ruby lips. Her blonde curly hair fell past her chest and her clothing was body hugging, leaving very little to the imagination. Had it not been for her rowdy attitude, Ryou wouldn't even have guessed she'd ever hang out with practically all males. After all, she looked very feminine and was beautiful as well.

"Ahh, Bakura," Ryou and Bakura both looked to Malik, who stood with a very questionable smile. He wore skinny jeans and perhaps the tightest skull top Ryou could've ever imagined on a male, possibly because it was a girl's tee shirt. It didn't even make it to his jeans waist band, showing off a good three inches of golden skin. Unlike last time, he looked -very- well pampered and almost as if…

As if he knew someone would be here. He knew Bakura was coming and this time, he wasn't so broken up over it-he was looking to impress him. Bracelets dangled on his arms and it looked as if he had put extra effort into his eye make-up. Worst of all, he didn't seem bothered one bit by the fact Ryou was here, not even daring to look at him again.

A funny feeling came to Ryou's stomach. Something was going to go wrong. With the way Bakura was looking at Malik, he thought Bakura knew it, too.

"Yep," Bakura said shortly, half-glaring at the male as he drew near.

"Mariku," he murmured fondly, eyes drafting to the taller male who didn't seem so pleased any longer as he stood against the stair railing. "Told me you would be coming but huh, I didn't know you'd be bringing your friend," he spoke, emphasizing the last part. Bakura didn't look too happy and he wasn't, not in the slightest. He knew Malik was up to something.

"Yes, my boyfriend Ryou," He snapped, frowning at the blonde. Ryou gazed from Bakura to Malik. Malik's haunting eyes turned to Ryou, full of loathing.

"I see. I'm Malik, if you didn't know." His lips curved into a rather unpleasant smile, unable to keep his hatred from showing on his face. Not only that but it was is if he was pretending he had never met Ryou at all. But this person…

This didn't seem like the same guy Ryou had met that night at all. He smiled unsurely, nodding. "O-Oh, heh. Nice to meet you." he was trying not to let his voice tremble any. He didn't want to seem scared-and even if he was scared, he wouldn't be sure what there was to be scared of. Bakura has reassured him before he would be faithful to Ryou but that really wasn't it; more over, Ryou was more scared of the fact that…

Malik didn't like him and he couldn't help the reason why. Malik rolled his eyes and looked back to Bakura, putting on his best flirtatious smile. "Anyway," he said , ignoring Ryou's comment completely. "I actually wanted to talk to you about something, Bakura." He batted his lashes and touched the male's shoulder caressingly. Bakura gritted his teeth.

"Then spit it out."

Malik smiled shyly, then glared to Ryou. "I meant alone," he said venomously. Ryou looked to Bakura unsurely and he gave a small smile and shoulder shrug to go off.

"O-Oh, sorry." Ryou smiled understandingly and gave a nod to both. "I'll just…go see what Anzu's doing…" Bakura grudgingly let go of Ryou's hand, watching him head back down the stairs.

" I'll be down in a minute!" He called after him affectionately, then looked to Malik. Malik grinned and took Bakura's hand, leading him away from their friend's eyes. He lead him to the bathroom and closed the door, turning the light on.

Bakura's eyes bore into Malik's harshly. "So what is so 'important' you needed to take me away from Ryou for? Huh? If it was to shamelessly flirt with me, like you are, I'm not stupid. Don't waste your time." Malik laughed a mirthless laugh, stepping in closer to Bakura.

"Flirt with you? I would never do that when I -know- you're with someone, Bakura. That's very disrespectful-especially when you're with someone so…" He paused. "Adorable." Yet he said it with utmost distaste and Bakura could already tell exactly what Malik was trying to do.

"Then quit fucking trying and drop this. If it's about your shit, I already took it to your house." Malik let out a deep breath. Bakura just didn't get it, did he?

"This isn't about my stuff!" He cried, and he frowned suddenly, remembering something. "Or my Ipod, which you're lucky I had insurance on." Bakura was beginning to get frustrated. He didn't want to talk to Malik or have anything to do with him. He just wanted to go downstairs and see Ryou!

"Then hurry up, quit fucking -wasting- more of my time, and get it out!" Bakura spat, folding his arms over his chest. Malik's eyes seemed to darken and he looked up to Bakura, a pained look crossing his features.

"I just…I wanted to see you alone, okay?!" Malik pouted, hands reaching out to wrap around Bakura's neck, surprising the taller male. "I…" Malik sighed, smiling softly. "I missed you…" Bakura did not look impressed. "I…I just wanted you to know that I am over it and I am done being stupid. I want to try again!"

…Bakura couldn't even put into words how this little 'confession' was making him feel. He stayed silent, staring at Malik in disbelief. "I…I still have feelings for you, Bakura." He licked his lips, moving his face closer to Bakura's, noses almost brushing. "And I know…you still want me too." Malik was just about to kiss Bakura when he was pushed away violently, body slamming against the bathroom sink.

"Fuck you!" Bakura hollered, teeth gritting in utmost ferocity. "How dare you?!" Bakura pressed the other's shoulders roughly into the wall, eyes lowered. "How dare you try to crawl fucking back after all the shit you did?! Don't even…don't fucking come near me. You mean nothing!" Malik's mouth dropped and he was looking at Bakura in astonishment.

He could feel tears but he wasn't going to let them fall. No; Bakura definitely liked him and he definitely hasd feelings still! He was just mad but he'd get over it and come back where he belonged! He eyed Bakura, faking an irritated look. "Whatever." Malik's lips curled into a twisted smile. "Ryou is all wrong for you, Bakura. I can see it. He's so sweet and pure, it's disgusting. He's not your type, you're just going to screw him up. Why don't you see? I'm the right person for you!"

This was the maddest Bakura had been in a long time. He took his hand and struck it savagely across Malik's face. Malik yelped, head jerked to the side, his own limb coming up to cradle where Bakura had hit him.

"And don't you ever fucking talk about him. His name has no business in your crooked mouth." Bakura jerked away, turning from Malik. He opened the door roughly, curious eyes set upon him.

Ryou saw him and his jaw dropped. He had never seen Bakura look so…formidable. He looked away, biting at his lower lip, unsure of what to do. In the bathroom, they all had heard some banging around and turned off all the sounds to be able to hear what was going on. Noone was really sure until the sound of a yelp was heard, and suddenly Bakura was stomping out of the bathroom looking absolutely livid.

He canted his head to Mariku, who had been watching the bathroom door ominously and he did not look happy either.

"Bakura, what did you…" But he didn't stop to look at any of them. He practically ran down the stairs, unable to stopper his inner rage. He didn't understand; he swore, in his whole life, he had never been as angry as he had been in that bathroom. When Malik had said something about Ryou, he became unglued. His heart was thumping in his chest. What was Ryou unconsciously making him do?!

"Talk about a buzz kill," Katsuya grumbled from his place on the floor, covering his eyes with the back of a palm.

Ryou only stared, uncertain of what move to make. Should he go downstairs or…

He swore he could hear sniffling coming from the bathroom. What did Malik say to make Bakura get so mad? He was torn; he didn't know where to go first. Mariku ran after Bakura down the stairs so he supposed that only left one choice.

Anzu was about to go but Ryou beat her to it, dashing to the bathroom door. His fingers grasped the side and he opened it to reveal a sobbing Malik, hunched over his knees on the bathroom floor, holding his face. Bakura had hit him?

…Suddenly he was very annoyed with Bakura. There was never a good reason to hit someone, especially for no reason. Why would Bakura outright smack Malik? Malik looked up, black eyeliner draining down his cheeks. His eyes snapped to Ryou and his anger was apparent. "You!" He hissed.

Ryou felt nervous but he knelt down on his knees anyways, covering his mouth. "Bakura…did he hit you?" he asked in disbelief, anxiousness showing in his face. He felt so horrible…

"Is it really any of your business, you traitor?"

"…Traitor?" Ryou looked absolutely dumbstruck. How was he… He hadn't even known then that Malik was Malik!

"Yes, traitor!" Malik smirked coldly, maneuvering himself onto his knees in front of Ryou. "You…you pretended…you knew I was talking about Bakura the whole time then, didn't you?!"

"What!" Ryou cried, "No, I didn't know, I really didn't! I…I really had no idea!" But Malik didn't buy it.

He chuckled low, hands creeping to set themselves atop Ryou's. "Oh, you try to act all cute and innocent but I see right through you. You're a fake and he's going to find out and you'll be thrown onto the street where you belong!"

"W-What are you talking about?! I never even mentioned you, I really didn't! I-I would…I didn't even tell him anything about what you said!" Malik rolled his eyes, nails beginning to sink in to Ryou's pale flesh.

"I'm sure. I bet you sat and laughed, didn't you? You had a good laugh to yourself about me, because you have Bakura now, wrapped around that ugly little finger of yours, but don't you worry, Ryou!"

Ryou gasped, looking from his hands, which were now beginning to hurt from how deeply Malik had dug his nails.

"I'll win him back and you'll be dead and gone, mark my words."

"O-Owe. Please stop! I really…I didn't laugh! I don't think it's funny a-"

"Just shut up and get out!" Malik yelled, pushing Ryou away. Ryou opened his mouth to speak but shook his head and stood, world absolutely spinning. What should he do…? He wasn't lying but Malik didn't believe him!

He opened the door in a rush and stepped out, not even daring to look up because he already knew they would be staring.

"What in the…Ryou, are you alright? What was Malik talking about?" Anzu cried, watching him worriedly.

"D-Don't worry about it, I just want to find Bakura, please…" He turned away from Anzu and everyone up there. Somehow, the day had managed to get even worse. He fled down the stairs and heade to the kitchen, wondering if maybe Bakura and Mariku were there. "Bakura? Bakura?" He called, but there was no reply. Maybe he was outside?

He belted for the front door and opened it to find Bakura standing on the side walk, looking to be having an argument with Mariku.

"But you had no reason to go and do that!"

"And he had no reason to say the shit he did, either! Why are you taking his side, Mariku?!"

"Because you never have bothered to!" Mariku's hands fisted at his side. Bakura's mouth opened and he was just about to retort when he looked to the doorway to see Ryou.

"You know what? Screw this." He snorted and turned from Mariku, running to the doorway, away from all of this madness, to Ryou.

"Bakura!" Ryou called, running down the stairway to meet his boyfriend. He stopped when he reached the bottom of the steps, holding onto the ledge. Bakura met him and was just about to take him into his arms, but then.

"Bakura!" Ryou hollered, "Why did you hit him?" Bakura couldn't help it. His best friend was yelling at him, his conscience was screaming at him, and now Ryou…

He had -done- it for Ryou.

A hurt look crossed his features suddenly, though he tried to hide it. He didn't say anything, but glared at Ryou and turned away.

"Bakura, why?!" Bakura's teeth gritted and his hands curled at his sides.

"Because!"

"WHY?"

"I DID IT FOR YOU, OFUCKINGKAY?!" Ryou could hardly believe his ears. Bakura had hit Malik for his sake? But that would've never have been what he would've wanted!

"B-But Bakura!"

"He said something about you and I just couldn't fucking stand it so…" He was having a hard time with it himself. He couldn't believe that he had just hit his ex boyfriend, and hard. 'I don't know why Ryou, but I did it for you.'

And what was even harder to believe was what Ryou did. He hadn't expected the true excuse to be good enough but here Ryou was, clinging to him and kissing his neck hard. "Please…let's just go home. I don't think I can take anymore…"

Bakura murmured and gave a small smirk. He closed his eyes and kissed the top of Ryou's head, fully agreeing. "Yes, let's." Mariku came stocking over, looking ready to say something again but Bakura did not want to hear it and was not going to. He turned to the side and took Ryou's hand in his and he noticed…

There were nail prints on Ryou's hands, small droplets of blood forming. It only took a moment for Bakura to realize what did this. Ryou noticed him staring and shook his head with a tired smile. "Let's just go, okay?" He took Bakura's hand in his own and he leant his head on his shoulder.

Bakura had the urge to go and -sock- Malik again but evaded it, deciding instead to do exactly as Ryou wished. He'd drop it, go home, lay down…

And be with the only person in the world who he'd ever officially punched someone in the face for. And secretly, if he ever had to do it again, he definitely would.

-

"Mariku, it's really not that big of a deal."

Then why couldn't he seem to get it out of his head? His frown increased and he turned onto his side, head resting back against Malik's soft, comfortable stomach. "Still. He hit you in the face," he mumbled, eyes sliding shut as he rested.

Malik smiled gently and dared to run well manicured fingers through Mariku's hair. "I know, but…I did say something bad so in a way, I deserved it."

Mariku sighed exhaled deeply. "I hardly think calling Ryou something slightly bad was worth getting a black eye over." Malik sulked, movement in his face managing to make his ice pack on his eye slide.

His idle hand lifted to adjust it back into place. "I know but…I guess if it was me and that person was the person I loved…" Mariku snorted.

"You hypocrite, you say bad shit about Bakura all the time and so does everyone else but you claim to love him? And does that mean you are admitting defeat by realizing Bakura does love Ryou?" Malik scoffed. That was not what he was saying at all! …Err, or at least, that isn't what he meant for it to sound like!

"You don't get it!" He said exasperatingly. "I just…I mean that if it were like, my brother or something and…ergh! Mariku, why are you such a bitch sometimes!" He groaned and turned his head to the side, holding the ice pack in place.

Mariku chuckled, listening to the strange noises Malik's stomach made. "There's a difference between being a bitch and being right, Malik."

Malik closed his eyes, lips pouting. "You aren't right, you're just mistaken. I know Bakura still likes me…" 'Even if you don't and he denies it.'

Mariku sighed exhaustedly, nodding. "Whatever you say, Malik." He went silent for a moment, hand settling beside his head on Malik's stomach.

Malik gazed to the wall in front of him a bit dazedly. Bakura, his ex boyfriend, had punched him in the face for something he had said about Ryou. He wrinkled his nose in distaste at the name, yet…

When they had been together, Bakura had been the one saying bad things about him, he couldn't even remember a time when Bakura had actually tried to fight off someone who said something negative about him. What made Ryou so different that Bakura felt like protecting him? It annoyed Malik to no end. What the hell was the difference?

And how could Ryou be the same boy only a couple of weeks ago he had been so fond of? In fact, he had actually hoped he'd meet that same boy face-to-face again, but that person being Ryou was quite unexpected. Life sure had a way of fucking things up, didn't it?

Still, Ryou actually, when he thought about it…

Seemed like he had been honest, but he was so in denial that he was just going to keep telling himself he was right, because what else did he have? If Bakura wasn't in his life, then what else was there?

He felt a pang of sadness and gazed down the Mariku, who's breath was beginning to slow. "Don't be sad, Malik, I'm sure it'll all work out somehow. This kind of bullshit always does," Mariku mumbled fondly with a yawn.

"I know, it's just…"

"Hmm?"

Malik felt a lame. Should he really say it? But…it was only Mariku, so… "I just wish I had someone who'd punch someone else in the face for me."

Mariku froze for a moment, but went right back to his relaxed state. "Well, if you ever need someone to punch someone in the face for you, I would."

Malik laughed and shook his head in disbelief. "Gee, thanks Mariku." Mariku grinned to himself, knowing Malik was still just plain clueless. Maybe he'd never understand-never know-and maybe there was nothing wrong with that because right now, with the way things were…

Malik was so interested in Bakura, he didn't see anything else. But who knew; when he finally saw exactly what everyone else did and came to the realization that Bakura was long gone, maybe then…

Mariku would be here and he'd wait until the right moment and if it never came, well…

At least he had this moment where he was so close to what he wanted-and even if it wasn't his, right now, it was so easy to fool himself and pretend, just like Malik was.

For now, being here was enough.

-

If there's a lot if silly mistakes, I am sowwy. u.u; I just didn't feel like overlooking evveeerrryyything, so I just skimmed. Hopefully my skimming was nearly enough! ;D So things are getting more interesting, yes? And if not well, I tried. XD;

Ahhh and I feel semi-bad making Yami into such a jerk-but…actually I lied. XD he kinda bugs me anyways and who better for Bakura to hate?!

I've had this chapter done for a few days, once again, but it just took a while to actually get a chance to overlook it, which semi-sucks! Uhhmmm hmmm. So I think this is halfway? Done? I hope! ;D

Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed and are awaiting next weekish's chapter! 8DD!

Next time!

Malik+Bakura(again)???

And!

Something very dirty! ;D

Hope you all keep reading!

-