The Summer of Seduction

by Wordsorcereress

Yugi Moto went to stay with his cousin Mai to enjoy a stress and relationship-free summer, only to find a sexy and handsome stranger making tea in his kitchen! Not only does this man happen to be his neighbour, he insists on getting to know Yugi better. For Yugi, this man is infuriating, fiery and sexy. The relaxing summer he planned for has suddenly become a Summer of Seduction.

13. Chapter 13

Hello everyone Merry Christmas!

Glad that people still expect updates from me, I will once again remind everyone that I have changed my style of writing and it now takes longer for me to have something ready, but that also means that it will be longer, better and with less grammar mistakes - hopefully. But I've NOT retired from writing, it just takes more time.

The more you put in, the more you get out.

But I'm so happy that everyone has approved of the Sennen clan, from their personalities to their backstories. I wrote most of it on the fly, but went back over to make sure I was keeping everything realistic and believable. I must say I'm very happy with what I've got, and hope that they'll keep pleasing everyone.

Sorry for taking so long but there was a huge block in my mind that I was only just able to get over, thanks for staying with me, and nice big reviews that discuss aspects of my story really do inspire me - It gives me faith in humanity again to see such educated and insightful views in reviews; compared to the "waste of space" 'update soon' comments they're a lifesaver.

I enjoyed everyone's reviews, and thanks everyone for supporting me in the 'identity thief' episode of my fanfiction life, it wasn't very pleasant, but I'm over and through it and I've learnt that there are lots of understanding and supporting people out there to combat the few bad apples.

Glad everyone's still rooting for Yugi and Atem, I'm afraid I'm teasing a little by not having them say those three little words yet, but understand that it's a leap for whoever says it, and, although they're practically going steady now, its still early days and times so they're not expecting it. But I daresay they often think it, in a vague round-about way.

Thanks for all my reviews, and please keep being generous with your time and giving them.

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Top reviews:

Aida:
Your reviews are always delightful! You are one of the people who give me faith in insightful readers and writers, you're the kind of person I put the effort in for. I hope you had a Happy holiday and have a great new year. I admit it was fun to write from Atem's perspective for a change, because I wanted to move away from Yugi's hesitant perspective and onto someone who's more positive about relationships. Atem's POV was also a chance to show his emotions, because they're normally so hard to catch. Yeah, the shower scene was a personal whim of mine, I wasn't up for a full lemon so I left it for the fans to fantasise about, seems to have been a hit. I haven't really compared 'now Yugi' to 'beginning Yugi', but you're right that he's recovered and grown a lot since those early days, I'm almost proud of him like a Mum. Meeting the family was just another chance to write about a nervous Yugi, I get a kick out of that, and of course Atem would never leave his side in that situation. Thema, I'm glad, has been accepted by all my reviewers, and I admit I was conflicted whether to make her playful or serious, but in the end I decided Mana needed her playfulness to come from somewhere and so Thema's sneakiness was born. In short I think you've grasped the personalities and antics of every character very well, that means I'm doing something right, and I'm glad of it because I wanted my versions to be an acceptable version of the originals. I had to give Yugi his gaming side because that's what Yugioh is best known for, and its fun to write about him in his element for once. Once again your comments are a pleasure to read, keep up your good work and I'll hear from you soon I hope.

Kearitona Sjachraelgil:
Thanks for your comments and rambles, I'm thrilled that I'm able to start such interesting soliloquies. I'm glad you appreciated the game, it's way beyond my knowledge of cards, but I had to have Yugi involved in games somehow. I like to think of the Sennens as a normal friendly family, and I agree Aknadin does tend to spoil the mood, but there's always an awkward family member wherever you look. I was honestly fascinated by your views about the military, and I agree that your views are what's happened to many soldiers in the past. I may play off that when exploring his character in more depth, if I get the chance. I wanted Seth and Seto to be separate people and I think that their backgrounds would really affect them, Seto was practically abused so he would have trust and socialising issues, and hide behind his 'job' a lot more than the average person. Because a job-role has routine and no emotional attachment to other positions or CEOs. Seth hasn't experienced that, and has grown up in a happy household with a Mother and Father, some drama, and some sadness, but overall I think to make him as different to Seto as possible I made him the 'look on the bright side of life' sort. I imagine his Mother was that type too, and no doubt Kisara has helped him open up because she'll never judge and always love. You're right too, by being hard to chase Atem had to understand WHY for once in his life, and that brought them closer. And too freakin' bad for John to have lost such a great person. Thanks for all your comments once again, see! You even made me ramble in reply a few times! Leave some more!

s2Teennovelist:
Thanks for your amazing comments, it's people like you I go the extra miles for, though I have notice they're becoming a little fragmented, is anything wrong? I'm glad you like Thema so much, I often think of her as a cat because she's regal, beautiful, affectionate, graceful and yet fierce like a cat, I'm happy you like the analogy. I think that by adding in a mention of their morning routine it let me recap and gloss over what was missed in their week together, and I do think that Yugi calling Atem and threatening to lock him out is hilarious, but also totally reasonable; the guy can't type through the night while in a relationship! It's unhealthy and it's also a little anti-social since he'll be taking daytime naps and won't hardly spend time with Yugi. Hee hee, everyone likes the not-so-cold-shower that I put in there, I left the actual lemon for fan's fantasies so I hope yours went wild! You've once again really summed up Yugi's interactions with Atem's alpha male side 'he plays on that like a violin', perfect! No wonder you're a great author. I agree that he's more relaxed now to even tease Atem's dominant side, he knows that Atem won't hurt him, but also won't let him leave with a point over him either; it's like a game to them. I thought that Magician Girl and Mana are both very creative in their magical ways so I put that in the real world by making them highly artistic, glad you approve. "She's your mom Atem, she's never going to be normal" - that made me laugh and agree, they never seem to do anything to make you seem cool, they just make fun of you. I took a lot of inspiration from The Frost King for the sibling interaction, I bicker with my siblings all the time so to make it real I had them do that too, by your reaction I've done a good job of it. I was less subtle with Mahad's Magician roots, but I think that he's the cheery and sensible personality who will be able to get away with it, plus he's so much fun to write about. Aknamkanon was a challenge for me because I wanted him to be a more concentrated version of Atem mixed with wisdom and less flirting, I hope I got it right, Atem's his Father's son alright. I'm not sure if I will get the chance to fully explore Aknadin's reasons, but if I do I hope you'll understand later, if not I'll put it in an author's note at the end. I did feel kinda bad for Kisara, but with a loving boyfriend and his family I'm sure she'll be strong enough to bear it. I got a kick out of Kisara liking Atem's book too, just another hint that he is famous in America and other places. Finally I did enjoy having Yugi in control for once and wipe the floor with Seth's ego, I think that Seth, as casually fun as he is, can have an unbearable streak - but he's a good sport and it was likely a humbling experience for him. Plus Atem got a win out of it, and I think he secretly likes watching Yugi be the 'cat' in games of cat and mouse. Sorry for taking so long to write this and have it up, but I hope it'll be a nice gift to the fans. Thanks for your comments and I really do enjoy how much you engage and question my AU, I think it makes me better by making me question my world and characters more - in the end I understand them that much more. Please review again!

Also thanks to: astrallumiere, klagana1, YuugiYY, LightAngel07, samurai, Ariana, yamixyugiyaoilover, Mizuki-vamp, InuYoshi, Aqua Girl 007, Ocena Strex, Jazz, Juliet28, Happy reviewer, winged sapphire wolf, Magnifique, samira vangola, procrastinator65, Linh Linh, Ondrea670, silver woman, YamiLuna and shessys mate.

All your reviews were well received!

now enjoy!

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Yugi woke after a restless sleep once again. He woke with the blanket under his legs and his head pillowed by Atem's bicep. Yugi breathed and blinked his eyes open slowly. He was still too hot. He was practically exposed but he was still overheated.

Atem had the thin sheet over his lower torso with his feet sticking out of the bottom, Yugi could see by the thinness he had nothing on ... it made him drool a little.

But Yugi huffed to himself; how could he stand to be covered with this temperature? It must have been his family roots, all through yesterday Atem's Egyptian family seemed unbothered by the heat; Yugi and Kisara on the other hand often retreated under shade or indoors by the air conditioning for a breather. Even the fairer skinned, compared to her husband and children, Thema didn't need to take cooling breaks; she just smiled understandingly and ordered more iced drinks for the pair of suffering foreigners.

Atem found Yugi's escapes amusing, and often made comments about his predicament. Yugi pushed him into the pool after the tenth or eleventh jibe – Mana and Mahad thought it was hilarious, and Thema laughed merrily for an entire minute before admitting that Atem had that one coming. It seemed that Yugi's actions had made her like him even more, since she had only seen his polite side and not his playful or irritated sides, having him loosen up and be himself had pleased her a lot.

Atem rolled his eyes at his family's laughter and had a quick breather of his own to change into dry shorts and shirt. But not before catching Yugi by the ankle and pulling him in too. The pair laughed, Atem stole a kiss while they were shoulder deep in water, then they swam out. Yugi opted to stay in his wet clothes since they were cooler.

Mana and Mahad had appeared with towels and messed up his hair, treating him like a little brother by restraining him to endure a thorough towelling. Yugi was really starting to feel more like a friend and less like a guest or stranger.

Yugi smiled, yesterday had been fun. He had apologised to Atem, of course, but Atem assured him that it was all in good fun, and that he liked how Yugi stood up for himself: "But I got even, so all is forgiven."

But the heat of the day was already creeping under the curtains like smoke, it filled the room and washed over Yugi's skin and made him highly uncomfortable. The light through the curtains shone a slit of golden-sand daylight onto the wall on their left. The room was dark and the only sound was the faint water trickling in the pool under the glass.

Yugi lightly smacked his lips at the sound.

He was thirsty.

His throat was dry and he needed water to combat how much he had lost in the night. He sat up and make a face when the sheet tried to stick to his back; he hated sweating at night, it never felt nice in the morning. He hoped he would get used to this desert heat soon.

He glanced back at Atem and saw that he was deeply sleeping, he could step out and get a drink and be back soon, he was sure. He may not even notice he was gone.

Yugi hesitated for a second, one leg out of bed, then leaned back and pressed a light kiss to Atem's cheek. "I won't be long," he promised despite Atem still being asleep. Yugi smiled at his relaxed sleeping face and reluctantly pulled away with a fond smile still on his lips, he wanted to snuggle back under the covers with him and cuddle into his side until he woke up, he's relax in the smell of his skin and play idly with his hair … but Yugi's throat begged for relief and he couldn't refuse.

Yugi pulled on a baggy white shirt and a pair of light blue shorts and sandals then poked around the bathroom for a cup. He found none and realised that everyone had taken them outside yesterday around the pool, they had engaged in a water fight with cups and dunked water over others heads and splashed them into their bodies for fun. Thema and Isis won. Who knew that the mysterious Isis could have such a competitive and playful side?

He wondered if any cups were still there. If they weren't that meant he may have to go to the café for a drink. Yugi bit his lip slightly, I hope the language barrier doesn't stop me in that scenario. In a last ditch attempt to get some water easily he tried cupping his hands under the tap, it was okay but the water tasted really weird and chemically. Yugi made a face and didn't try again, he'd get a stomach ache if he kept drinking that.

He sighed and moved to the balcony and made his way down the stairs to the pool side, careful to stop the light form hitting Atem's sleeping face as he left. While he made his way down the stone steps Julian poked his head out over the top of his pen and barked when he saw Yugi.

Yugi smiled and watched him escape over the gate and into the open. "Morning boy," he greeted when Julian knocked into his legs in an effort to get to him sooner. Yugi chuckled and knelt to scratch his ears "You know, if you slowed your hellos down to a bump I wouldn't greet you any different," he teased, leaning out of the way of a dog kiss.

Julian looked up at their room and whined softly, wondering where his master was.

Yugi glanced up at his bedroom balcony and hummed slightly "Atem seems to be sleeping a lot, and he told me he could survive on five hours at home," he said aloud. "Maybe Jet Lag really takes a toll on him?" he suggested. Julian scratched an ear vigorously. Yugi smiled at him, maybe he's just taking advantage of his holiday. I shouldn't be worrying this much, I'm sleeping more too, just in breaks. Yugi had been taking an afternoon nap or two since he started sleeping with Atem, there wasn't enough time in the night to keep up the pace.

Yugi had completely missed the fact that he had referred to Atem's villa as 'home'. His subconscious had already placed him by Atem's side, it was filtering into his waking thoughts but he had yet to catch on.

With Julian at his heels, Yugi began to poke around the poolside for a cup or glass that belonged in the bathroom, if he couldn't find one – he thought – he'd just cup his hands under the tap and risk a stomach ache. He wasn't up for going to the café for just water.

As he circled the other side of the pool, the one that opened out to a beautiful view of the river and the distant city beyond the sand, a soft sound became easier to hear.

Yugi titled his head slightly and caught the musical sound that were floating just within his hearing range. "What's that?" he asked.

Julian wagged his tail and sniffed around the deck chairs and tables. The poolside was all deserted this early in the day, the sun was just above the horizon and all curtains were still drawn in the windows of the other hotel balconies.

But someone was awake, clearly, and playing music.

Yugi hesitantly followed the sound and stopped before a stone arch. This arch led to the hotel's heart, away from the bedrooms and pools, quiet spas and reading areas, and into the café, game rooms, gardens and social areas. There was a long corridor that snaked past the kitchens and some small, expensive and designer shops which were still closed, and finished at the foot of a grand staircase that led one upstairs to a private café area; where Thema had first treated Yugi and Atem upon their arrival, and the lower area for those who had not booked a table. Both were equally stylish and grand and surrounded in symbols of Egypt's historic past.

But the noise of music was too quiet to come from the centre of the café area, or the kitchen. Yugi lightly stepped into the coolness of the stone building and followed his ears to the source.

It led him to a half open door just outside the reading room area. The simple white wood against sandy walls looked nice and was good at trapping light. From inside the room came the unmistakeable sound of a piano, a soft and calm melody ringing from the keys as someone played. There was a strip of sunlight across the floor where the door opened into the corridor, and Yugi hesitantly made it wider by pushing against the warm wood.

Inside was a beautiful sunroom with the south wall nothing but floor to ceiling glass against a yellowish wooden floor dotted with green mats and carpets under furniture and by the outside doors. The walls had a small ridge for a shelf and there were little browned and vanished clay pots, some wooden statues or figurines for decoration, and a book or two left by previous users of this room. The middle of the room held a beautiful matt-white grand piano and matching stool. There were three sofa seats facing the piano, the glass and the inner wall, the two facing inside and out were back to back, and the piano seat was two meters just behind the piano stool for an audience's perspective. The sofas were green and a darker shade of sandy wood, and had glossy wooden coffee tables before each one.

Seated at the piano, playing beautifully, was Isis.

Mana was seated just beside her, watching with intense eyes as she pressed the peddles, shifted her hands and lightly tapped or stroked the keys of the piano to flow the sounds into one seamless melody.

Isis looked beautiful too, she had a green sundress that had thick straps over her shoulders that curled at the edges like repressed wings. The dress straps curved down to her shoulder-blades on her back and quite low on her chest too, revealing her beautiful bronze skin, she was too proper to show anything unnecessary. There was a golden necklace around her neck, an Egyptian eye framed with curled sticks of gold, resting just on her collarbone with a diamond for the pupil. She had a matching golden belt and earrings, Yugi was sure it wasn't real gold since she would be too weighted down by so much. Finally she had brown leather sandals tied onto her feet. But most importantly her wedding ring caught the light as if proclaiming to the world it was her special day.

Her hands moved more gracefully than falling petals over the ivory and ebony, and her eyes were half lidded as she lost focus on what was before her and became one with her music. Yugi thought she looked like a muse.

Isis's subtle smile slowly fell into a passive face as the tune began to slow, echoing like an organ's notes until the final chord lingered in the air like the silent cry of a plucked flower.

Mana smiled when the piece came to an end "Isis, anet la'iba arre'er," (Isis, you play wonderfully) she said dreamily. She was dressed in a beige top with several colourful necklaces hanging over her chest. She had matching bangles in metallic colours; purple, green, gold and blue. Then she had jean short shorts with frayed ends and mid-calf high brown leather boots. Yugi thought she needed a cowgirl hat and she could go to a fancy dress. By her feet was a leather bag with tassels of all kinds hanging from the flaps, zips and buckles, sort of Red Indian inspired.

Yugi wondered if she had made it herself, it did look too customised to be a mainstream bag.

Isis smiled graciously at the praise, for it was clearly praise even if Yugi didn't understand a word of it, and waved Mana towards the piano. "An anet jaraba," (Now you try) she murmured and positioned her fingertips on the keys.

Mana had comical determination on her face as she played the first few keys before Isis stopped her. The older woman stood and put Mana in the middle of the stool and pointed down at the pedals, explaining something which Mana nodded to every once in a while, her determined face never falling.

She tried again and the same tune appeared, slowly and hesitantly, with the grace of a toddler crossing the floor – one day she would glide like Isis. Yugi realised it was a music lesson of sorts.

Julian, who had been sitting patiently by Yugi's feet, had grown impatient with just looking through a crack in the door, and so nosed it open and trotted inside.

"Julian!" Yugi hissed, the door opening wide.

Mana stopped playing and looked over at the door "Yugi!" she cried, and waved one hand in a mock salute "Bonjour!" she grinned widely.

"B-bonjour," Yugi returned uncertainly.

Isis smiled at him as if she knew he was there all along, she knelt to pet Julian and beckoned Yugi closer. "Sa'wuffa anet ijtazaba wassla?" she asked with a kind smile, reassuring Yugi through the language barrier that she wasn't upset by his intrusion.

Yugi helplessly glanced at Mana for assistance in translating.

She rolled her eyes "Dit elle aimeriez-vous rejoindre?" (She said would you like to join?) Mana translated, patting the seat beside her and scooting over for Yugi to sit down.

Yugi smiled weakly, he didn't want to intrude on Isis's lesson. "Je ne joue pas," (I don't play) he admitted.

Mana just smiled radiantly "Il suffit de venir nous rejoindre, Isis a ordonné à trois tasses de thé alors je pense qu'elle attend que vous restiez," (Just come join us, Isis ordered three cups of tea so I think she expects you to stay) she giggled when Yugi looked in astonishment at the three teacups sitting by a metal pot of steaming tea, and one water glass.

Isis smiled at him and sat just behind the coffee table on the sofa "Se il vous plaît boire. Vous avez soif, oui?" (Please drink. You are thirsty, yes?) she held out the glass of water and smiled welcomingly.

Yugi blinked like an owl a few more times then sat next to Isis weakly. "Do you know everything?" he asked, forgetting that she couldn't understand him in any language.

Isis chuckled and shrugged anyway, a graceful movement as always, and placed the glass in Yugi's hands.

Yugi picked up the cool glass and brought it to his lips. The nearly icy water ran down his throat and made him shiver, but the relief was elating. He swallowed nearly half the glass before putting the water down, his mouth was no longer sticky or dry.

He had Isis and her uncanny knowledge or predicting skills to thank for his relief.

He glanced at her relaxed pose, her leg crossed and her back resting against the back of the sofa with both hands folded in her lap. She had her eyes closed as she listened to Mana's practicing. Yugi hesitantly touched the back of her hand, her crystal blue eyes opened and met his amethyst, Yugi nodded at the drinks she had ready for him "Thank you. Merci." He tried to speak with gratitude so she would know through tone.

Isis smiled, her full tan lips curving prettily, and she nodded her head in return, making her loose hair fall over her shoulders. She brushed it back absently as she stood to rearrange Mana's wrists and push her shoulders back, she spoke firmly as she set Mana to play again.

Mana groaned and played the same six notes over and over again with her right hand while her left hovered.

Yugi listened to the melody. It was a haunting sound, those six notes. But at the same time pretty. He poured some tea and mixed in some milk and sugar while Isis watched Mana practice. Once it was to his liking he moved to stand behind her and watch what she did. "Quelle est cette chanson?" (What song is this?) he asked.

Mana paused for a moment "Coda. Voulez-tu essayer?" (Coda. Do you want to try?) she tilted her head so most of her hair fell out of place.

Yugi tried not to be sucked in by her begging face, her desperate want to have a fellow student for Isis to instruct. He waved a hand "Je ne pouvais pas interrompre votre leçon," (I couldn't interrupt your lesson) he smiled innocently, trying to hide his silent laughs.

Mana glared and grabbed his wrist, "Pas belle Yugi!" (Not nice Yugi!) she hissed.

Isis covered her hand on Yugi's wrist and sent her a scolding look. "Kafin." (Enough) she firmly commanded, Mana deflated and sighed as she repositioned her hands, ready to play again. Isis shook her head fondly and then smiled in Yugi's direction with welcoming charm. "Voulez-vous jouer, Yugi?" (Would you like to play, Yugi?) she asked, gesturing to the piano – Mana translated.

Yugi shook his head a little "Je ne joue pas," (I don't play) he admitted.

Isis chuckled once Mana told her his response. "I will just show you a small tune," she promised and guided him onto the stool with soft, cool hands on his shoulders.

Despite her reassuring and confident touch Yugi felt like he was sitting an exam all over again. Or getting ready for a performance, the first few steps towards the stage were always the worst.

Isis picked up his right hand and placed it on the keys and placed her own on top. Mana's eyes lit up and she moved her right hand into position too.

Isis smiled when Yugi glanced at her unsurely, she squeezed his left shoulder supportively and tapped his fingers to indicate what to play. It was a short tune, only two sets of four that could flow in a circle forever. It was the core of the haunting melody she had played earlier.

Mana lit up as she got the hint, it was the part she had to practice too. Soon both were performing the melody with only an octave, or set of keys, separating them. It sounded beautiful.

Isis smiled and lightly hummed to the tune, her hands still resting on Yugi's shoulders. Yugi felt comforted by the absent contact, he felt secure and safe, and the contact was friendly and natural, he didn't feel awkward at all; he wondered if this was how an older sibling made you feel. Being an only child growing up, and a big-half-brother more recently, he had no idea what it would feel like, but if he was to describe it he would use what Isis was invoking in him as his answer.

Julian's head turned towards the door as he heard someone approach. A moment later Atem appeared behind the door, dressed in boxer shorts and an oversized white shirt.

Yugi fumbled on a note when the door opened and he saw who was standing there.

Isis and Mana looked up when Julian bounded joyfully into Atem's legs. Atem smirked when the friendly hound jumped up and put his paws on Atem's chest in order to get more attention. He fondled Julian's ears before putting him back on the floor and leaning against the doorframe.

Yugi smiled in welcome, surprised that he had also found his way here, but glad to see him. "Good Morning," he said.

Atem smiled widely, showing all his even, white teeth, "Good morning Mon amour," he returned with a wink. He laughed suddenly and pointed at Mana "Apprenez tu quand même la même chanson?" (Are you still learning that same song?) he teased.

Mana gasped before huffing "NON! Cette chanson est mon préféré. Je peux jouer d'autres. Suivre!" (NO! That song is my favourite. I can play others. Watch) She turned back to the piano with a determined face, she accidently elbowed Yugi in the ribs when she whipped back around, and held her hands properly over the keys - dramatically.

Yugi rubbed his side slightly as he got off the stool, trying not to laugh at her enthusiasm. He suspected that she and Joey would be best friends if introduced.

Isis covered his hand with a worried expression and lightly tapped Mana's shoulder with the back of her hand in reprimand. Mana pouted at her briefly before stringing together many notes and pedal presses into a song. Yugi suspected it was Moonlight Sonata, but couldn't say for sure until the familiar high notes came around.

The notes were clear and loud, but she was lacking the grace Isis had when she played. Yugi wondered if it was practice that made it second nature, by Isis's story of her University days she had been playing piano and keyboard since her University, at least. That was about a decade of experience, or more if she had been playing longer, which Yugi suspected she had.

Isis nodded her head along with Mana's playing, her eyes watching her moves carefully. Eventually she folded her arms and smiled as the song reached a close. Mana finished the song with a flourish and her head bowed over the keys, pretending to mourn for the end of a good piece.

It didn't last long.

She jumped upright like a puppet on strings and beamed proudly in Atem's direction "Voir. Je peux jouer d'autres morceaux de piano." (See. I can play other piano songs)

Atem chuckled and clapped appreciatively with Yugi and Isis "Désolé pour douter de tu," (Sorry for doubting you) he smirked.

Mana returned the smirk with a playfully haughty, upturned nose "Tu devriez être. Un jour, je serai en mesure de jouer comme Isis!" (You should be. One day I will be able to play like Isis!) she proclaimed, making a fist with her right hand as if to grasp the vow solidly.

Isis had a pleased and flattered blush across her tanned cheeks, she glanced down shyly before stepping forwards and putting her hands on Mana's shoulders. She spoke to her, Yugi suspected it was criticism and praise, and put her hands back on the keyboard to continue with the lesson.

Atem rubbed Yugi's lower back before sliding his hand around his waist, Yugi relaxed into his warm palm and tilted his head when Atem's lips neared his ear. "I thought you said you wouldn't be long," he chuckled.

Yugi blinked and turned to his charming smile with surprise "I thought you were still asleep!" he protested.

Isis covered her mouth as she laughed at the pair of them. She picked up Yugi's tea and handed it to him before nodding at the door "Je vous verrai plus tard. Je ne peux pas être distrait ai Mana," (I'll see you later. I can't have Mana being distracted) she smiled at her sister in law over her shoulder when she pouted. Her French was uneven and slightly grammatically incorrect, she was still learning.

Atem nodded but leaned in and whispered something in her ear as Yugi moved to the door.

Isis smirked at Atem when he pulled back. Her eyes glanced in Yugi's direction and she nodded, she put a hand on his shoulder and sighed deeply. Her next words held all of Atem's attention, when she had finished he nodded seriously, but with a happy light in his eyes. He allowed her to steer him to the doorway with a roll of his eyes.

Yugi smiled and leaned into Atem when his arm was back at his hip, keeping them glued together as they walked down the quiet corridors back to their room. Yugi looked up at him "What did you say?" he asked.

Atem shook his head as he replied "Sorry Yugi, but that's private."

Yugi sighed and sipped his tea as he walked to prevent spills. "It must have been pretty important if you didn't want your sister to hear, or me to understand," he pouted.

Atem chuckled and kissed his temple "It was something in the past that I had to apologise for … I'll tell you one day," he promised at last. "But why is it that you always leave me in the mornings?" he asked as he put Julian back in his pen until they were ready to supervise him.

Yugi ignored the topic change and huffed "I get too hot," he complained. "I was thirsty this morning and I couldn't find a cup, and the tap water tastes chemically," he made a face that he washed away with another sip of tea.

Atem sighed "Sorry, not a lot I can do about the climate. Though, maybe you're just not tired enough to sleep through the night," he suggested through a purr as they climbed the steps to their balcony.

Yugi could tell by the tone of his voice what he was hinting at, but the hand which had slid to cup his butt was the next clue. He sighed softly and smiled hopelessly as the door was opened and quickly closed behind him, he set down his cup and turned to link his arms around Atem's neck "Wasn't yesterday's shower enough?" he asked with a smile, already leaning up to kiss him.

Atem held Yugi's sides and pulled him closer "I can never get enough of you," he whispered huskily.

Their kiss was short and sweet, testing to see if they were each on the right page, making sure they both knew where this was going.

After the initiation was complete their lips met again in a deeper kiss. Yugi twisted his fingers into Atem's hair to hold him close while they made out in the middle of the room. Atem's hands began to stroke his lower back, gently catching the bottom of his shirt a bit at a time and drawing imaginary patterns across Yugi's skin as the shirt was bunched up under his fingers – a double assault of caressing fingers and caressing fabric. Yugi couldn't help the shivers that followed the shadow light touch.

Atem hummed with a seductive smile when Yugi broke the kiss to latch his lips to his neck. "Want to try something new, mon amour?" he purred, eyes closed as Yugi caressed his neck with his lips and lightly bit with his teeth.

Yugi ran his nose up Atem's throat to his earlobe, inhaling deeply the scent of Atem's skin. He blew into his ear playfully before asking "Like what?"

Atem caught his waist and spun him around so Yugi's back was pressed against his chest. Atem smirked lightly before pulling a small roll of fabric out of his back pocket. Yugi had closed his eyes with a sigh, leaning into Atem's warmth as Atem raised his hands. When Yugi opened his eyes he saw Atem dangling a silvery blue tie from his fingertips.

Yugi blinked then glanced at Atem, knowing what this meant but wanting him to explain anyway.

Atem pecked his cheek and temple before drawing it up with both hands level with Yugi's eyes, but not tying it until his lover gave his agreement. He met Yugi's uncertain eyes and smiled gently "Would you like to try a blindfold? I promise you'll enjoy it," he let one side of the tie go to squeeze Yugi's shoulder.

Yugi bit his lip as he thought. It did sound like a sexy, kinky idea, something he had often thought about before but had never experienced. He covered Atem's hand at last, deciding to trust him, he turned his head and said "You'll stop if I say, right?"

Atem kissed his lips briefly "Of course, just say the word," he promised before raising the tie again and laying it carefully over Yugi's eyes. He pulled it back and secured it behind his head, making sure it was comfortable and that the knot was not directly behind his head for later – it was a pain to lay on.

Yugi, with his sight cut off, now relied entirely on sound and touch to know what Atem was doing and where he was. He inched closer to him and his ever present body heat "This feels strange," he admitted.

Atem chuckled and hugged him reassuringly, he loved feeling Yugi's warm body in his arms, here he was safe and they were together. "I'll make you feel good," he promised lowly. He tilted Yugi's chin up to kiss his lips. Yugi was quickly dominated because he didn't see it coming, Atem plundered his mouth and lips and all Yugi could do was accept his looting path. Their tongues danced and Yugi's hands twisted his hands into Atem's hair to get a feel for his next moves, though he quickly moved his hands down Atem's chest and pulled at his shirt instead, wanting to feel something more than a cotton shirt against his skin.

Atem smirked lightly and helped Yugi remove his shirt, pausing his assault for a moment to see what Yugi would do next.

Yugi ran his hands over Atem's chest and down his abs, taking his time and focusing on sculpting an image with his hands. Atem felt very warm, and his muscles felt both smooth and soft with underlying firmness that made him drool slightly, the muscles flexed and moved under his hands to show off their firmness and shape as he touched. He leaned forwards and found Atem's shoulder, which he quickly began to kiss and litter with bites, still ticking his sides with his fingertips as he worked round to Atem's toned back – damn was he flexing just to show off now?

Atem sighed and closed his eyes to indulge in Yugi's explorations, humming and murmuring to encourage Yugi to continue. He made sure to exhale on the shell of Yugi's ear, making Yugi shudder and flinch instinctively at the sudden cool sensation. Atem smirked and laid his hands on Yugi's hips, this was where the fun began.

Yugi felt Atem inching his shirt off and reluctantly let Atem go to rid himself of his shirt. He tried not to jump when he felt Atem's lips attack his chest and nipples, but it was so unexpected when all he could see was the silk fibres of the tie or darkness, any touch was a pre-empted attack on his nerves!

He moaned slightly and shuddered, Atem's fingers ghosting up and down his spine while his tongue and lips savoured his chest like a delicacy. It was so much more intense when he couldn't see …

Atem exhaled against, blowing cool air over the light perspiration on Yugi's chest, a mixture of room temperature and internal heat. Atem loved it when Yugi shivered again, pulling his arms closer over his chest in an attempt to block him.

Yugi pouted slightly when Atem chuckled, he reached out, brushed past Atem's chin or cheek with a fingertip, then touched his shoulder to run his hand up into his hair and guide himself down to where Atem's lips were, they knelt against the other and became locked in a deep kiss, fingers and palms bringing pleasure to their exposed torsos. After losing their breaths they paused to breathe, resting their foreheads together. Yugi twisted a finger in Atem's thick locks of hair and pulled it lightly "You're such a jerk," he smiled, thinking of Atem's new weapon – his breath.

Atem sighed as they massaged their lips together once more. They shifted closer until they each had a leg between the other's. Yugi pushed his knee upwards and Atem groaned in response at the firm touch to his growing erection. Yugi smiled as they kissed and did it again and again until Atem was rocking to his rhythm. Atem returned the favour, being more aggressive about it since Yugi had got him so quickly aroused.

Yugi gasped when he found himself on his back, Atem grinding them together like a cat in heat, growling and purring in his ear. Yugi moaned and gripped Atem's clothed behind to encourage more, he was hard and needy now. He could feel Atem's chest sliding against his own, their hips and erections making heat and pleasure grow with each grinding thrust, the strength and grace of Atem's body, and Atem's panting and moans in his ear – it was all too intimate for words. Pure sensation.

Yugi felt himself grow hot, his skin was sensitive to each touch of Atem's skin and his voice wasn't silent either as he bucked and grinded back.

He could only imagine what Atem looked like, he was acting dominating and predatory, he was going to eat Yugi alive and Yugi had no objections. His brain pained a lusty image and his growing erection began to throb; Atem's tanned skin moist with perspiration, his eyes dark and lidded, his body strong and expertly manipulating him, and the seductive hunger underlying his every expression be it kind or ravishing.

Atem saw Yugi's cheeks turn a permanent deep pink, flushed with pleasure and chuckled, licking a line from Yugi's chest to his earlobe, making Yugi arch his neck so Atem could reach him easier. Atem began to mark his neck without another thought. Yugi moaned beneath him and Atem felt happy he was the only one allowed to be this close to him, to be the one who could make Yugi unravel into a pile of sexy moans and screams.

Atem reluctantly stopped their arousing grinding, he didn't want to take Yugi on the floor. But Yugi's disappointed whine nearly made him change his mind, and especially when Yugi arched up into him, sliding subtly against his body like a snake. Atem nearly found himself charmed.

But he had other fantasies to play out, and so settled Yugi's needs with a hand between his legs while he pulled away from his embrace. Yugi moaned again and moved against Atem's pressing hand, Atem licked his lips and felt his erection throb – what a show.

He took Yugi's hand and pulled him upright, and then over to the bed, his hand leaving Yugi's clothed crotch for a moment. Aware of Yugi's vulnerability he let Yugi's knees touch the mattress before lowering him back against the sheets, linking his hands on Yugi's lower back to ease the drop.

Yugi sighed when his back hit the fabric and quickly got comfortable, his legs were still dangling off the edge and tangled in Atem's. He smiled when Atem kissed his cheek, and relaxed again, content to let Atem have his way.

Atem kissed down Yugi's stomach, his hands running up and down Yugi's chest, tweaking his nipples and idly tickling his ribs with each passing. Yugi laughed slightly, and covered his mouth with the back of his wrist to stifle the giggles and hitches of pleasure Atem tricked out of him with his hands and mouth.

Atem rolled his eyes when he saw Yugi being quiet, and decided to force some more sounds from his kissable lips. He pulled his hands down and began to pluck at his shorts, the leg and the waist of them.

Yugi held his breath for a moment, trying to blindly guess what Atem was going to do. He jerked and squeaked with his covered eyes going wide for a moment when Atem's hand snaked up his short's leg as far as it could reach, and began to squeeze his skin with his fingertips.

Atem chuckled at Yugi's reaction; ah yes, this was a really good idea. Yugi was helpless to stop him and guess his next moves, he was a panting mess and Atem wasn't finished yet. He was going to tease Yugi senseless, until he came undone at the seams, and then he'd carefully put him back together.

Atem would be the only one able to put him back together.

Atem pulled the zipper of Yugi's shorts undone with his teeth, making sure Yugi knew it by placing both his hands on Yugi's hips. Yugi groaned and bit the back of his wrist slightly, trying to stop those images his brain kept feeding him.

Atem pulled off his shorts and boxers and took a step back to strip himself, while admiring Yugi once again.

Yugi sat up, Atem had gone. He heard the rustle of clothes but then there was no returning warmth. He was about to reach for the blindfold when he felt the bed dip behind him. He glanced over his shoulder and asked "Atem?" he hoped he didn't sound as vulnerable as he felt.

Atem put his hands on Yugi's shoulders, his heart hurt when he saw the anxious body language Yugi had when he was left on his own without warning "Yugi," he returned affectionately and pressed his cheek to Yugi's as he hugged him from behind. He kissed up and down Yugi's shoulder until the worried tense muscles had relaxed. Atem smiled and turned Yugi's chin for a kiss.

Yugi moaned and cupped his cheek to feel where Atem was. Atem's free hand moved down and gripped Yugi's exposed erection. Yugi's head fell back with a startled gasp that turned into a moan. "No fair," he protested in a whimper.

Atem chuckled and let him go to help manoeuvre him to the centre of the bed.

Yugi blindly groped down Atem's back and sides until he found his erection, Atem grunted but didn't stop him. Yugi chuckled and kissed Atem's mouth, stroking his face with one hand to know his reactions and pumping his erection with his other.

Atem returned the kiss with much vigour, trying to show without words that he loved what Yugi was doing to him. He felt his stomach tighten and broke the kiss to groan. "Damn Yugi, you know how to get me going," he purred, licking the shell of Yugi's ear and blowing over the moist trail.

Yugi laughed as he tilted his head to block Atem's playful licks, "You're not immune to this either," he pulled Atem closer with a hand twisted in his tri coloured hair "I remember how sensitive you are here, it does get you weak in the knees doesn't it?" he whispered huskily in Atem's ear.

Atem groaned at how sexy that sounded. He reached for the bottle of lube and reluctantly stopped Yugi's hand. He kissed Yugi briefly as he opened the bottle with one hand "As much as I'd like you to make me cum, I'd rather get you ready for the main event."

Yugi rolled his eyes under the blindfold and said in a sweet and coy voice "Spoil sport, I liked having you in the palm of my hand."

Atem, who had sat up and pulled Yugi's leg up over his shoulder for good access, blinked a few times in shock when he heard Yugi's words. "Did you mean …"

Yugi waggled his eyebrows above the tie and blew a kiss to where Atem's voice had come from "It means whatever you want it to mean," he flirted, flexing his leg to make Atem lean closer "Though it's more likely what you're thinking right now," he lowered his voice and licked his lips.

Atem smirked and ran a finger down the slope of Yugi's nose "You are a minx, Mon amour."

Yugi laughed and got comfortable when he felt Atem beginning to circle his entrance "I learnt from the best," he chuckled, then hissed slightly as the worst part got over, the weakening of the ring of muscles; the rest was significantly less painful since Yugi had been having sex near nightly for two weeks.

Atem stroked his thigh gently "Are you still good?"

Yugi nodded and gripped the sheets "It's normal."

Atem chuckled and shook his head, he tapped Yugi's cheek and ran a hand over the blindfold "Are you still okay with this?"

"Oh," Yugi blushed a little "Yeah, it's okay."

Atem nuzzled Yugi's leg and carefully re-lubed his fingers before adding a second and moving a little more aggressively.

Yugi's wincing went away relatively quickly and he soon began to move with the invading fingers and began to moan slightly. With his eyes closed he could feel the touch more intensively, the friction and soft stroking of his inner walls drove him crazy, it was so erotic. He could feel Atem's free hand absently rubbing his calf over Atem's right shoulder, Yugi found it very comforting. Then Atem's breath! The exhales caused cool air to whisper over his chest and stomach, making Yugi twitch and tense as the non-solid touches teased his senses.

Yugi nearly screamed when Atem found his prostate and began to stroke that too, agonisingly slow and heavy, tears appeared under Yugi's lashes and the tie. He whimpered and moaned as his end approached "Atem, no, please wait," he gasped.

Atem paused and Yugi caught his breath slightly, feeling Atem's worried gaze on him. He reached up and blindly felt for Atem's face, he cupped it at last "If you keep going I'll cum, just give me a minute-"

Atem cut him off with a kiss. He smiled against Yugi's mouth and tilted his head to whisper in his ear "It's alright Yugi, you can cum, I'll work you back up again," he promised in a sultry voice that made Yugi tremble.

"But Atem-" he tried to protest again.

Atem nipped his bottom lip "Let me, Yugi," he insisted and moved lower down to Yugi's erection. Yugi's protests were silenced when Atem resumed stroking and stretching his insides, all while shamelessly torturing his outside too. His breath on his hot flesh made Yugi gasp as he squirmed from the inner touches, then his teasing licks set fire to his nerves and made him shake helplessly.

"Atem!" he moaned, a teary note in his voice as he was softly driven to the edge of insanity, losing the line between torture and pleasure with each rapid, ragged breath.

Atem felt his own erection throb at the desperate tone of Yugi's voice, deciding to have mercy he sealed his lips over Yugi's hard member and set to work unravelling his senses. He could tell that Yugi wouldn't need much more encouragement, so began to bob his head and suck repeatedly while he inserted the third and final finger into Yugi's entrance.

Yugi let out a small sob before arching his back beautifully and crying out Atem's name. Atem moaned softly and quickly swallowed Yugi's release.

When Yugi collapsed bonelessly he threw an arm over his face to hide his already hidden eyes, and panted harshly, gasping down air to recover from Atem's assault on his senses.

Atem smiled and leaned up to rest his head on Yugi's chest, listening to his franticly beating heart and moving with his rapid breathing.

Yugi felt limper than a rag doll. He lay trying to catch his breath and felt weak from his release, yet happy and satisfied too. When Atem gently lay his head on his chest Yugi relaxed even more, he smiled and raised his hands to rest on Atem's shoulders, one hand absently ran through the locks at the nape of his neck.

Yugi felt Atem sigh and smiled to himself. It was very peaceful right now. He began to move his hands through Atem's hair with purpose, taking in the texture and feel very slowly, then moving on to feel the skin of his shoulders and neck. Atem's muscles relaxed under his worshiping touch and Yugi felt like he was glowing – he felt content. He sighed and lay still once again.

Atem smiled through Yugi's tender ministrations, it made him feel loved and cared for – his Mère would be ecstatic at his train of thought; he lightly chuckled and shifted forwards the final space between Yugi's lips and his. He kissed Yugi and Yugi responded rather lethargically, he was maybe a little too relaxed …

Atem had to fix that if he wanted to continue.

He smirked a little as they kissed and lightly twitched the fingers that were still inside Yugi's body, making Yugi gasp a little.

Yugi cupped his face and felt the smirk, he chuckled a little, "I was just getting comfy," he joked, nuzzling Atem's nose with his.

Atem chuckled "Sorry Yugi, I've still got a problem to solve." He adjusted his position so he was hovering over Yugi again and finished stretching him, he could see Yugi's erection returning as he stimulated his pleasure nerves.

He brought Yugi in for another opened mouthed kiss and groped for the lube again.

Yugi heard the lube being opened and shifted a little to give Atem more room. He made a soft, disappointed noise when Atem pulled his fingers out of his entrance and glared when he heard Atem laugh at him.

Atem's softly calloused hand stroked his thigh "I'm not leaving you Yugi," he promised, teasingly stroking Yugi's erection as he said that.

Yugi groaned and wished he could see so he could pleasure Atem too, though by the sound of it just being helplessly blindfolded was enough of a turn on for the man. He waited patiently while Atem drew away, leaving him isolated for a few seconds, and happily covered his hands again when he returned.

Atem pulled Yugi closer and carefully pressed the head of his erection into Yugi's entrance, sliding in as smoothly as he could. He glanced up when Yugi tilted his head back with a groan. He wasn't sure if that was a sound of pleasure or pain. Atem leaned down and wrapped his arm around Yugi tightly "Yugi? Are you okay?"

Yugi held him back and nuzzled his cheek contently "Yes, can I take this off now?"

Atem smiled and hooked a finger under the edge of the tie and pulled it up and off Yugi's face.

Yugi blinked a few times and squinted as his eyes got used to seeing again, then focused on Atem and leaned up to kiss him, this being the first kiss of that he could equally compete in. Atem moved one of his arms from under Yugi's shoulders to the back of his neck to support him, and kissed deeply, rocking their hips as they got more involved. Yugi pried Atem's lips apart and began to tickle and stroke his tongue and inner mouth when he gained entrance, making Atem melt in response.

They broke the kiss for air, and Atem began to bite and nip at Yugi's neck.

Yugi smiled and moved his hands to Atem's backside to encourage him to thrust, he still had little energy from the first round so he had to urge Atem to do what would please him. "I'm glad I can see again," he laughed when Atem licked a ticklish spot on his neck.

Atem kneeled up a little and grinned "I like seeing your eyes," he returned, kissing both eyelids and finally starting a thrusting motion with his body.

Yugi moaned, still sensitive from last time, and now hard again. "So good," he whispered, trying to buck his hips but finding himself pinned and no match for Atem's current strength.

Atem closed his eyes and moaned in pleasure, Yugi was tight, wet and constricted with every thrust into him. It felt like he was getting tighter! Every thrust made Atem's eyes want to roll back into his skull, it felt too good, Yugi was too good.

Yugi let out whimpering moans as Atem moved, he pressed the palms of his hands to Atem's bare back and held him as their bodies shuddered and connected. Atem's moans and gasps in another language was music to his ears, Yugi felt his erection throb as his noises tickled his eardrums.

They grew mutually tired of the slow pace and Atem began to move faster; the slow pace was loving and steady, made to melt and warm, it was now time to stoke the fire. Yugi's eyes kept on his and Atem saw them darken and water as pleasure began to overwhelm him, his cries and groans and moans got louder and more plentiful.

Yugi loved how hungry Atem's eyes were, it made his stomach tighten and his hands weakly fisted against his back, the blunt nails scraping against his skin.

Atem kissed him messily, moving even faster as he felt his body start to shake. Yugi kissed back, a little drool tricking from his mouth as he tried to breathe and kiss at the same time, Atem was stealing his breath, making his heart race and his stamina was virtually gone.

Yugi felt Atem shaking and wrapped both arms and legs around him, as if he was holding him together. Atem's hands felt like brands on his hips, holding him still as he drove in mercilessly, impaling Yugi deeply every time. Yugi cried out and yelped and moaned, Atem's lips still attacking his neck as his prostate was hit over and over. Yugi squeezed his arms and legs to warn Atem and buried his face into Atem's shoulder as his orgasm rushed over him.

Atem hissed and frantically jerked his hips a few more times as Yugi shook and bucked underneath him. Yugi's tightened around his erection almost painfully and Atem could hold on no longer. He cried out as his orgasm washed over him, he held himself and Yugi together as he came, feeling a primal satisfaction as he came deep inside Yugi.

Yugi smiled between gasping when Atem's arms and legs gave out, and raised his weakened limbs to hold him as he recovered, feeling Atem's pounding heart against his skin and his breath in his ear. Yugi nuzzled his head to Atem's and managed to find enough strength to raise his hands enough to link them at Atem's back, cuddling him in the aftermath.

Atem relaxed with Yugi's arms around him and only shifted slightly to pulled his softening erection out of Yugi's entrance and then resumed his position laying over Yugi's heart. Atem closed his eyes and sighed, Yugi's heart was beating so loud he could hear and feel it against his own chest, he was sure his was the same. He absently counted the beats as his breathing returned to normal.

He raised his head at last, only to see that Yugi had fallen asleep.

Whatever Atem had wanted to say died in his throat. He didn't want to disturb him when he looked so peaceful, he smiled with liquid crimson and wine eyes and resumed his position.

They weren't needed out of this room until the evening after all, Yugi could sleep.

Atem leaned up carefully, he worried that he would disturb him, and kissed his cheek tenderly. "Mon amour, mon Yugi …" (My love, my Yugi)

---

Yugi pulled on his borrowed blazer and sighed in relief when it was the right size; it was one of Atem's spares, jet black and a little stiff and padded at the shoulders, with black buttons on the sleeves. The only flaw was that the sleeves were a little long. Under was a formal shirt of Yugi's, it was white and slightly airy, he had black trousers and black shoes. He wore a burgundy and gold splattered tie which was loose at the moment because he was worried he'd be too warm for it. He had his belt hold up his trousers and gave up the usual hanging belt-chain for tonight because it looked strange with the blazer.

He glanced over his shoulder as he fiddled with his collar, trying to make it sit comfortably with a blazer on "I hope it's cooler in the dining hall," he commented "I don't want to show sweat marks."

Atem laughed slightly and slipped the blue and silver tie over his head, "If you get too uncomfortable you can just say so, the heat isn't for everyone," he winked, drawing the tie around his neck in a flirtatious way.

Yugi blushed a little when he saw the tie and heard the double meaning. He gulped a little and tried not to remember how it felt pressed against his eyes while Atem slid his powerful body against him and-

Yugi shook his head and had to turn away. Atem lightly snickered behind him. "Jerk," he muttered and worked a brush through his hair before the mirror. Atem walked up behind him but Yugi ignored him.

Atem sighed and wrapped his arms around Yugi's waist "Sorry, mon amour," he apologised with that infuriating smile Yugi couldn't stay mad at on his face.

Yugi still ignored him.

Atem rolled his eyes and snatched the brush out of Yugi's hands to do the ends himself "I was serious though, if you get too uncomfortable feel free to leave, or I could mention something to ma Mère, she could open some windows to keep the temperature down?" he suggested, squeezing his shoulder. He was glad Yugi had accepted his help and hadn't moved away when he took the hairbrush. That had to be a good sign.

Yugi sighed and shook his head at last "I'd hate to be trouble. Thanks," he added when Atem put the brush down.

Atem smiled and cupped his cheek with an endearing expression, Yugi leaned into his touch slightly when Atem spoke "You look amazing, Yugi."

Yugi glanced down and fiddled with his sleeve again "The Blazer's not even mine," he argued slightly.

Atem chuckled and withdrew to brush his own hair "True, but I like the style on you. We should consider getting you a tailored one."

Yugi laughed and sprayed a little cologne on his neck, it reminded him a lot of Atem's smell. "Are you invading my wardrobe now?" he joked as he turned and tried to see what Atem was seeing. Maybe it did give him broader shoulders, and showed off his slim waist, plus black was a slimming colour …

Atem interrupted his self-admiration as he hummed thoughtfully "Then again maybe not, I wouldn't want someone better than me to see you looking that good and getting any ideas," he put the brush down and licked his lips as Yugi look a final glance and then tiled his head in Atem's direction.

"So far as I've been in your presence people have been shooting 'Ditch that loser come with me' looks at you nearly every time we're out."

Atem looked confused.

Yugi blinked disbelievingly "You haven't seen them?" he asked. Atem just blinked. Yugi rubbed his forehead slightly "The blond from the coffee shop, the waitress, the hotel assistant, the hotel waiter?" he said, trying to jog Atem's memories.

Atem rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "No … I don't think I've seen those people …" his expression darkened a little, settling into a scowl that made him look mysteriously stormy with his red eyes. "But I have seen plenty of people checking you out," he continued.

"Huh?" Yugi's brain stalled over the fact that Atem hadn't noticed nor remembered those people who had tried to send passing looks and strike up conversations, or hand out numbers, and he had instead seen imaginary people looking Yugi's way.

It was Atem's turn to look disbelieving "Yugi … the stall man on the peer, the waitress at our first date? You didn't see them …" he trailed off when Yugi shook his head. Atem ran a hand through his hair "I thought that you had seen them when you acted friendly back," he admitted, looking a little embarrassed.

Yugi laughed suddenly and covered his mouth, he leaned on Atem's shoulder and smiled "Were you jealous?" he asked, linking his arm through Atem's.

Atem grunted and looked away.

Yugi smiled and tilted Atem's chin back up from its embarrassed or ashamed position "It's okay. If I didn't see them and you didn't see them then they can't be that threatening, right? Why worry, it'll only turn you into the jealous type," he dismissed them casually, but there was a hint of plea in his voice. It was the jealous type he had run from before, he didn't want him back in the form of Atem.

Atem relaxed and nodded, catching Yugi's hand and planting a kiss on the back of it. Of course he understood every double meaning and undertone in Yugi's voice "Of course, mon amour, anything you say," he promised, his eyes once again kind and mysteriously caring, assuring Yugi that he was once again not the jealous lover he had tried to escape.

"Tu êtes tous les deux si mignon!" (You two are so cute!)

The pair jumped, but not apart, when Mana's happy exclamation interrupted them.

Atem scowled at her "Mana …" he growled, sounding displeased.

Mana stuck her tongue out and huffed "Eh bien, tu étiez. Désolé, tu étiez trop occupé câlins pour me entendre frappe." (Well you were. Sorry you two were too busy cuddling to hear me knock.)

Yugi felt Atem tense and quickly changed the subject before some sibling arguments could break out "Vous regardez belle Mana" (You look lovely Mana) he complimented.

Mana had a women's orange blazer that folded up to her elbows and fit her snugly, with a white short sleeved blouse with buttons down the front and a thin black tie that, for the moment, was hanging undone with one end longer than the other. She had a silver belt at her hips with a black pleated shirt that went down to mid-calf, and black heals. She had her hair styled with curls and had a tiara that made her bangs and hair fall in a heart shape around her face. She had makeup on, light orange eye shadow, some sparkling blush and an orange flower in her hair with silver bracelets and silver studs in her ears.

Mana looked delighted and blushed under the real makeup "Merci Yugi. Tu deux paraître beau, très élégant ... Je pense que Blazer tu convient le Yugi," (Thanks Yugi. You two look handsome, very stylish … I think that blazer suits you Yugi) she added with a grin.

Atem winced in the background and muttered "Defiantly not getting one for you."

Yugi elbowed him. "Tout le monde est prêt?" (Is everyone ready?)

Mana nodded "Ouais, notre table est en attente et Mère est trop. Je dit que je serait obtenez tu deux parce que je sais Mère il serait il rendre mal à l'aise," (Yeah, our table is waiting and Mother is too, I said I would get you two because I know Mother would make it uncomfortable) she giggled and winked at Atem. "Peut-être tu devriez juste se dépêcher et de proposer d'arrêter Mère lancinante tu" (Maybe you should just hurry up and propose to stop Mother pestering you) she teased.

Atem laughed and rubbed the bridge of his nose "Merci pour différer l'adoption l'arrivée de mère, mais-" (Thank you for postponing Mother's arrival, but-)

Yugi beat him to it "Si nous étions engagés elle se contentait de déplacer son enthousiasme pour les plans de marriage," (If we were engaged she'd just move her enthusiasm to wedding plans)

Both siblings blinked for a moment, surprised that Yugi was taking a joke and playing off it, then they laughed, agreeing.

Atem put his arm around Yugi's shoulders and kissed his cheek "You are amazing," he chuckled and finally pulled his tie on properly as they headed out the doors. Yugi did the same.

Mana linked her arm through Yugi's and her other with Atem the moment they were out of the door. She turned to Yugi and beamed "Tu avez un régal ce soir, Mère sera chante avec le groupe de musique live!" (You have a treat tonight, Mother will be singing with the live band!) she sighed dreamily "Je aimerais avoir sa voix" (I wish I had her voice)

Yugi leaned around her to see Atem "I didn't know she was a singer."

Atem shrugged "Sometimes."

Mana grinned "Elle veut le faire pour Isis, parce qu'ils sont de si bons amis. Comme Yugi et moi!" (She wants to do it for Isis, because they're such good friends. Like Yugi and me!) she squeezed Yugi closer and nuzzled him affectionately, like a kitten. Yugi patted her shoulder with a smile, making her giggle.

When they entered the main hall Yugi nearly paused in surprise. The upstairs restaurant was alight with candles in lanterns and the electric lights were lowered. On a U shaped table there were more candles and seats enough for everyone, a white tablecloth with a black strip along the very centre. It was placed in the centre, just before the dance floor and the band who were playing softly in the background, singing something in Arabic that sounded soothing despite the harsher sounds of the words.

Nearly everyone was seated already. Thema and Aknamkanon were sitting just to the side of the head of the table. Aknamkanon wore a tailor made black suit with a tail on the blazer and a golden tie. His hair was slickened back and neat, his undershirts was a light gold, it was still mostly white so it was only noticeable next to Atem and Yugi's shirts. He had gold cuffs at his wrists and polished shoes. His formal outfit showed off all his physical prowess, there was no doubt he was in highest physical form a lot like his second son, and also showed success. Such a posture would make one think he put all his effort into his success. However it was the fatherly expression and his hand on his wife's that showed otherwise.

Thema wore a stunning dress, it was a shiny pink and hugged her body all the way down to her calves. There was a wrap around her shoulders the same colour that attached at the top of her dress, it covered her shoulders and left only a strip of skin visible on her back. Where it attached to her dress was seamless and decorated by silver and pink jewels in a flower pattern. Her hair was at twice it's normal volume in a mane of waves and curls and glittering pins, framing her face with the normal red lipstick and dark eyes.

She stood when she saw the trio approaching. Her dress trailed behind her majestically as she moved, Yugi was impressed that she hadn't tripped, and felt a little small in comparison to her glamour.

Thema smiled at them all "Tu avez tous deux regarder si charmant, merci de les amener les Mana," (You both look so lovely, thank you for getting them Mana) she patted her daughter's shoulder.

Mana beamed "Aucun problème maman." (No problem Mum)

Thema kissed both of Atem's cheeks and looked him over with growing approval "Mon ce la amende fils que je ai. Tu êtes juste comme votre Père," (My what a handsome son I have. You're just like your Father) she lightly squeezed his bicep and she giggled slightly "Je vois que tu avez été très occupé, les muscles de ce genre ne se produisent pas du jour au lendemain." (I see you've been busy, muscles like this don't happen overnight)

Atem chuckled and pried her hand off his arm and hugged her "Merci maman, et tu volent la vedette comme d'habitude," (Thanks Mum, and you steal the show as normal) he teased.

Thema blushed a little and waved a hand at him "Flatteur!" (Flatterer) she accused with a pleased smile.

She kissed Yugi also and linked her arm through his "Je aime ce style de veste que tu portez Yugi, je dois tu donner un une, tu regardez très fringantm," (I do like this style of blazer you wear Yugi, I must give you one for an occasion, you look very dashing) she winked.

Yugi smiled and felt Atem silently pouting over being right about Yugi's attractiveness and the fuss people would make on it. "Vous es très belle Thema, faire vous habiller souvent comme ça?" (You look beautiful Thema, do you often dress like this?) he asked.

Thema blushed again and squeezed his arm in delight "Seulement pour une occasion spéciale. Depuis ce soir a beaucoup de choses à célébrer je pensais que je reçois un de mes meilleurs robes sur," (Only for a special occasion. Since tonight has many things to celebrate I thought I'd get one of my better dresses on) she brushed a hand down the dress as she led them to the table.

Aknadin was sitting on the very edge, looking thoughtfully sour. He had his hair still in a messy ponytail and had a suit on that managed to make his thin, ragged frame look even more so in how it swallowed him. His cane was to his left and his body was hunched forwards.

Yugi sent him a pitying smile and turned to Thema "On dirait qu'il pourrait faire une centaine d'autres de meilleures choses," (He looks like he could be doing a hundred other better things)

Thema looked in his head nod and looked like she was fighting the urge to sneer or wince "Mon beau-frère ne se soucie pas beaucoup pour les événements," (My brother in law doesn't care much for events) she sighed, sounding tired.

Mana snorted primly and Atem frowned. Mana tossed her curls "Il fait se soucie pas beaucoup pour rien. Je suis heureux que Seth a pris après tante," (He doesn't care much for anything. I'm glad Seth took after auntie) she put her hands on her hips and tutted disapprovingly.

Aknadin didn't react, though there wasn't much chance of him missing her volume.

Thema lightly pinched her shoulder, Mana squeaked and then rubbed the abused spot looking thoroughly scolded already. Thema frowned at her "Manners, ma princesse, pouvez tu se il tu plaît prendre un siège? Je suis sûr que les autres seront de bientôt ici," (Manners, my princess, can you take a seat please? I'm sure the other's will be here shortly) she ushered them to the table and Mana quickly looped a hand through Yugi's and dragged him to sit by her. He laughed as her enthusiasm threatened to send him flat against the floor.

Atem smiled and sat on Yugi's other side, he was at the edge of the table opposite his grumpy uncle. Mana bounced in her seat, happy she would be sitting next to Mahad or Isis, Thema stood by the stairs to greet the final two couples, and Aknamkanon kept glancing at his watch and at a bottle of champagne. Yugi got the impression that the final four were a bit late.

The upper restaurant was as grand as before, but the added candlelight was absolutely enchanting. Like an ancient dining hall lost in modern times, an old place filled with new people and things. The live band played beside the bar, a guitar, piano, and keyboard that doubled as any other instrument depending on the settings, and a lead singer. They were all dressed smartly in champagne coloured suits and the only woman on the keyboard was in a wine coloured dress. From the table's position they had a perfect view of the band, and of the dance floor which was a spot before the band made up of polished wood that Yugi didn't recall being there previously. It had to be an installed piece that could be packed away when no longer required, but it was a beautiful touch.

There were other guests and customers eating around them at their own tables, marvelling at the beautiful evening and one or two couples dancing to the slow music that the band was producing. Everyone looked absorbed in their activities and in their semi-romantic surroundings.

Yugi was overwhelmed with the grandeur and splendour, he felt a little small again when he realised that Atem must have grown up seeing this frequently; surrounded in finery and good company, food, and even good locations.

Yugi felt small; he hadn't travelled as much or far, hadn't experienced this much architectural art and décor, and he definitely hadn't experienced such fine living in his lifetime. He really felt like the lucky prise winner, or misplaced guest.

Thema's cheerful exclamation broke Yugi's train of thought: Seth and Kisara had arrived.

Seth was wearing navy trousers and a light blue shirt with a navy blazer across one arm, his tie was missing but it was probably to show off the gold chain he wore instead. He let Thema fuss over him before escorting his girlfriend to their seats.

Kisara looked very pretty. She had a knee length navy dress with light blue frills for an undershirt that made it flare from her body slightly. It was patterned with blue bird wings. It had no straps that he could see and fastened at her back with crisscrossing ribbons in light blue like a corset, the same colour ribbon also tied around her waist and into a bow just before the shirt flare. Her hair had been pinned into a side bun and fell gently over one shoulder. She had white shoes and white blocky bracelets on her thin wrists, she had light pink lip gloss and sparkling cheeks with her blusher.

Yugi grinned to himself, it seemed they were taking the American tradition and going to events with coordinated colours. Navy and light Blue.

Seth pulled out her chair and she sat on the corner beside Aknamkanon and her boyfriend. When she sat she waved sweetly at Yugi who was across from her, her smile still shy, but sweet. Yugi knew they had a connection with being the only two outsiders trying to find a place inside, he waved back and mouthed 'you look great'.

Kisara blushed and put her hands in a heart shape back at him before mouthing 'you too'.

Atem chuckled and innocently examined his empty wine glass when Yugi raised an eyebrow at him.

Seth sat down and winked at them before trying to start a conversation with his Father, after two attempts he gave up and spoke with his uncle and Kisara. Kisara spoke happily and caused smiles in her neighbours with whatever she said, she often glanced down with a hand to her stomach.

Yugi leaned forwards and waved slightly to get her attention "How far along are you?" he asked in English.

Kisara blushed a little and said "Three weeks." Mana awed at once and giggled, Seto smiled proudly and held her hand, and Aknamkanon patted her hand that she rested on the table.

"Do you want a boy or a girl?" Aknamkanon asked her, but glanced too at Seto then at his own brother to see what the rest of the immediate relatives would say.

Kisara blushed even more and smiled softly "A boy," she said dreamily, putting her hands around her tummy with a glow that radiated her happiness. Yugi smiled along with her and Seth's eyes sparkled. Kisara spoke on "I wouldn't mind either way, but I never had any male relatives, I'd love a darling boy."

Mana grinned and settled her chin on her hands "You will be a great Mother."

Atem nodded "Seth?" he asked.

Seth shrugged his lanky shoulders and smiled contently, yet still easy going. "I don't mind. The baby can be whatever he wants."

Kisara giggled "He?"

Seth tapped her nose "I will not call him an 'it'. We already love him, don't we?" he leaned against her and she sighed with a happy smile, agreeing at once.

"Bint," a new voice grunted unexpectedly.

Everyone was jerked out of the couple's happy moment to stare in silence at the end of the table. Aknadin was still looking at his plate with a sour expression, but it had to have been him that had just spoke. Yugi knew that voice hadn't belonged to anyone else.

Aknamkanon cleared his throat slightly "Merta?" (What) he asked, looking very confused, and slightly suspicious.

Aknadin grunted again. "Bint."

Everyone was quiet for a moment.

Kisara finally pulled on Seth's sleeve and asked with a worried expression "What did he say?"

Seth still looked astounded. He kept staring at his Father as if he had just flipped out of his chair and done a handstand while singing the Greek national anthem! He opened and closed his mouth a few times before weakly saying "He … wants a girl. Bint means girl," he translated, just to make sure she got it.

After another beat of silence Kisara's eyes welled with happy tears.

Yugi felt a smile twitch at his lips; that was him finally acknowledging the baby.

Atem leaned back in his chair and exhaled in disbelief "There's a heart under those scars after all." Yugi laughed and smiled as he watched Kisara mop at her eyes and quietly give her thanks to the future Grandfather of her child for giving them a chance. Aknadin had gone back to brooding, but Yugi could tell by the mood that everyone was impressed by him, so didn't complain.

Thema's soft exclamation of joy pulled Yugi's attention away from Kisara's happiness and to the couple of the day; Mahad and Isis.

Yugi's jaw dropped a little at the pair of them. They looked absolutely wonderful.

Mahad was dressed in a magician's tux, with gold embroidery on the collar and the folds of the blazer on his chest, revealing a mystical and fun side to him; the blazer itself was styled as a waistcoat and had a tail behind him that made him look quite dapper. He had a white shirt and a black bow tie to match the black blazer and high waist pants with shining dress shoes to complete the look. His hair was lose by his shoulders, but subtly pinned to stay out of his eyes. He also had a little bit of eyeliner around his eyes, but Yugi only spotted it when he was closer.

Isis looked beautiful in her dress. She wore a white floor length dress with a gold Egyptian collar on her shoulders holding it up. A golden belt at her waist and just reaching her hips, there was another gold string around where her knees would be and the dress fell in a V, revealing her lower legs while the back lightly brushed the floor. Her arms were bare and decorated only by a golden band on each wrist, her eyes were dark and her hair had been carefully brushed back and held back with a golden headband with an eagle pattern along it. Her hair had been lightly braided because parts of it fell in waterfall waves against the straight sheet. She wore a necklace with an Egyptian eye and of course had her wedding ring polished on show. She had lip gloss on and golden heals that were silent against the carpeted floor.

Thema grasped both of their hands and kissed them both, gushing to them about their appearance and their night ahead.

Mahad grinned and kissed his Mother's cheek to calm her down, and casually looped his free arm through hers to lead her back to the table.

Isis smiled at the exchange, a pretty blush on her dark cheeks and her crystal eyes shining. She took a seat gracefully beside Thema and covered Mahad's hand when he tucked her chair in like a gentleman and took his seat beside her, on the corner so Mana could talk to him too.

Thema smiled "Enfin, nous sommes tous ici," (At last, we're all here) she let her husband pour some wine for her as waiters poured some red for all the others, they had appeared once everyone was seated. Yugi suspected that Thema had planned every minute of this night.

Once the wine had been poured Aknamkanon stood up and made a speech to the family, Seth and Atem whispered translations into their dates' ears as he spoke in Arabic. "Thanks everyone for being here tonight, everyone here has something to celebrate so let's share it all together. My son and Isis are celebrating their first year of marriage together. We are all so happy to see him happy, I swear he has not gone through a day in the office since he got married without pulling a trick out of his sleeve. My dear, how on earth do you put up with him?" the man's eyes twinkled as the family laughed.

Isis smiled and ducked her head a little shyly and glanced lovingly at her husband. Mahad was grinning widely and returned her look while holding her left hand with his. Isis murmured something and Arabic speakers chuckled slightly and Mahad dramatically bowed.

Atem chuckled and said to Yugi "She said, he's not so bad once you're trained him."

Yugi laughed into his sleeve.

Aknamkanon continued "Many happy years to you both, Mahad's a lucky man to have you, and we're a lucky family to know you." Everyone clapped and Mahad took the opportunity to kiss Isis on her lips briefly. They stayed in their little bubble for a few moments while Thema and Mana sighed romantically and the rest smiled, happy for them.

"We also have to celebrate Seth and Kisara, and a future boy or girl who'll join our family, congratulations to you both," Kisara and Seth cuddled as Aknamkanon nodded their way. Thema and Mana applauded.

Atem smiled and whispered to Yugi "Though I hope they wait until the kid is seven before making them sit through one of these meals." Yugi rolled his eyes slightly.

The man of the table looked mischievously at his brother. "I must also give mention to my Brother's changing heart to our lovely Kisara, you're headed in the right direction sir!"

Most laughed and clapped appreciatively. Aknadin acted as if he was still waiting for the others to arrive. Yugi clapped quietly and hoped that things would continue to go Kisara's way. Baby steps.

Aknamkanon turned his kind eyes to his daughter "We're all very proud of Mana for graduating last year, her hard work renovating and designing our hotel rooms has earned our company many rewards, keep it up my Princess," he raised his glass to her.

Mana stood and waved her hands in large bowing gestures before retaking her seat. Mahad offered her a high five which she happily returned and beamed at her Dad for giving her a mention.

"Finally we have my youngest son, who's come home a changed man, and who's just about to tour with his latest book. Well done Atem, we're proud of you," Atem smiled at his Father, relaxed and happy to have his family's praise.

Yugi squeezed his hand under the table while others raised a glass or clapped for him. Atem squeezed back and sent him a charming smile out of the corner of one eye.

Thema lightly cleared her throat to get her husband's attention and nodded in Yugi's direction.

Her husband smiled and raised his glass one more time "Last but not least, Yugi."

Yugi jumped in surprise at his name, why would he be included in a family toast?

Aknamkanon smiled kindly at him "Though we're still getting to know you, I hope that we'll continue to be friends." He shrugged his broad shoulders in a surprisingly fluid movement for a broad chest and shouldered man "Who knows, perhaps this time next year you'll be with us once again to celebrate," he raised his glass and winked "To another happy year."

Everyone echoed his ending statement, save for Aknadin, and picked up their own wine glasses to lightly chink them against their neighbours. Yugi tapped his against Mahad's, Mana's and Atem's before taking a drink, feeling highly honoured to have been included in such a private family event.

Atem smiled and covered his hand warmly "I knew you would fit in," he reminded him gently.

Yugi nervously chuckled and nodded "I never thought I would," he admitted. "But your family is so nice, they treat me like they know me. I'm glad I took that plane," he confided, leaning in close to whisper into Atem's ear.

Atem smiled too and tried to ignore how his Mother observed them in a distracting manner behind Yugi's back. "Yes. I'm glad you thought I was worth the risk," he agreed, kissing Yugi's hand as the waiters appeared with a starter.

The starter was a delicious looking Chargrilled aubergines, with a mixture of herbs to make chermoula and topped with delicately placed coriander leaves. Yugi inhaled slightly as the aroma wafted up from his plate. It smelled delicious! He took a bite and savoured it as much as possible. The taste was wonderful!

Atem saw Yugi enjoying his starter and chuckled slightly, "It still has nothing on your cooking, Mon amour," he declared.

Yugi blushed a little "Flatterer," he accused and took a sip of wine "I remember making chermoula with Joey, but I wasn't very good at getting a balance, I always made mine with too much oil or lemon juice," he laughed, recalling his university days in Joey's kitchen.

Atem smiled "I'd still eat anything if you made it."

Yugi raised an eyebrow "My stuffed sponge cake?" he challenged.

Atem blinked before recalling the cake that had sat in his fridge a long time after being served it just because it reminded him too much of Yugi's food war with him. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully "A point to you, Mon amour. But," he added, sending a smile in Yugi's direction "in my defence that one was too beautiful and imaginative to eat."

Yugi snorted and shook his head with silent laughter.

Thema smiled at them "Did I hear that you cooked Yugi?" she called, overhearing them amongst family chatter.

Yugi nodded at her "Yes, I learnt with two American chef's in University. They taught me a lot."

Atem chuckled "Oui, Yugi's cooking is five star, Maman," he agreed, making Yugi blush and Thema look thoughtful.

"I see," she said and went back to her meal with a secret smile.

Atem watched her suspiciously, this wasn't normal. His Mother rarely left a subject so unexplored. Was she biding her time? Or did she have something else in mind? Whatever the reason for her silence Atem was uncomfortable with it.

As they ate he glanced at her, hoping for a clue to her odd behaviour. Eventually she met his eyes and innocently tilted her head. Atem waved it off with a smile, but as he sipped his wine he frowned; she was up to something. No doubt about it.

Yugi was unaware of Atem's suspicions, and was happily talking to Mahad and Mana about their work in the Sennen resorts.

Mana nodded enthusiastically when he asked her if she liked her job "Bien sûr! Nous aimons travailler pour notre entreprise familiale et les plus nous travaillons plus nous sentons que nous possédons il," (Of course! We like working for our family business, and the more we work, the more we feel we own it) she waved her hands around at the room with a bright smile "Les plus de chambres de mes desseins qui sont intégrés plus je sens que je se l'approprient," (The more rooms of my designs that are built the more I feel that I own it) she explained.

Mahad laughed and refilled his wine glass with a gentleman's grace "Yes, Mana never had any other career dream. I am very happy to be able to take over Father's role, managing sounds dull and it is occasionally boring, but that's why I do it because I feel that I can change it and improve it for others. If people enjoy their work they will work better, and if people enjoy your company they are more likely to do business," he spoke in English, most likely to get his point across to Yugi without meaning being lost in translation.

Yugi smiled "I'd like to have a job like you two. You seem to enjoy it so much."

Mana grinned "Parce que le travail est fait des de mieux la famille," (Because work is making the family better!) she hummed and put her knife and fork together when her Mother sent her a look, they had previously been crooked. Thema silently tutted and Mana grinned sheepishly.

Mahad offered Mana another daisy and it was placed where the one yesterday was placed; behind her ear. Yugi smiled as he watched the interactions.

The waiters appeared and quickly cleared away the starter to make way for the main course. As soon as Mana saw the main she gasped with bright eyes "Ruz Koftas!"

Thema smiled at her "Votre favori," (Your favourite) she nodded.

Mahad smirked "Isis demandé cet notamment, elle savait que vous les aimez il tellement." (Isis requested this especially, she knew that you love them so much) Mana cheered.

Yugi looked at his plate curiously. It was rice and tomato sauce, and some kind of fried food mix and topped with parmesan cheese. "What did Mana call it?" he asked Atem, Mana he called it a name he hadn't caught in her enthusiastic outburst.

Atem smiled "Rice Koftas. It's an old Egyptian dish that Mana loves. Maman made it all the time when we were little, though I think she's altered it a bit because I never remembered it with tomatoes. Must be a European thing," he mused absently as he fished out one of the Koftas out to eat.

Yugi smiled "Italian. Tomatoes are traditionally Italian, this cheese as well. I suppose it would go together," he smiled, also taking a bite as Atem did. Yugi's eyes widened slightly. It was delicious! He tasted minced beef, parsley, dill, onion, and a herb that tasted a lot like coriander. The sauce was rich and the cheese gave it a nearly perfect texture and taste against the chewable meat. Yugi smiled as he swallowed "Wow, this is amazing!"

Atem chuckled "Haven't you done many Mediterranean dishes?"

Yugi shook his head while eagerly putting together another fork full "Only European-Mediterranean, I've got to look at these some more if they're this nice," he took another bite.

Thema smiled "Appréciant que Yugi?" (enjoying that Yugi?) she asked pleasantly. Atem looked suspicious at her while Yugi turned with a nod.

"Oui."

Thema tapped her chin thoughtfully "Que pensez-vous qu'il ya dedans?" (What do you think is in it?) she asked, a playful glint in her eyes while her posture was testing.

Yugi thought for a moment "Boeuf, le persil, l'aneth, l'oignon et autre chose, puis il ya la sauce tomate et fromage parmesan. Ce est très équilibrée, vous obtenez les herbes très clairement lorsque vous avalez," (Beef, parsley, dill, onion and something else, then there's the tomato sauce and parmesan cheese. It's all very balanced, you get the herbs very clearly when you swallow) he listed things in French most fluently, then added an opinion at the end, impressing Thema a lot if her raised eyebrows were anything to judge by.

She blinked once before smiling "Ce est incroyable, vous avez raison, sauf pour la Cilantro." (That's amazing, you're correct save for the cilantro)

As she praised Yugi looked down slightly with a small blush. Atem chuckled and shook his head slightly, "You're just encouraging Mother if you keep making cute expressions like that," he smirked around his fork when Yugi pouted at him "That's not helping."

Yugi looked down "Don't talk with your mouth full," he muttered, unable to argue back as he had previously wished.

Soon desert rolled in, a slightly warm walnut baklava, a light pastry with a buttercream-like filling flavoured with walnuts. Thema glanced Yugi's way and once again asked his opinions about the dish. Yugi was glad to share his thoughts since he liked the food he was tasting, he thought that they needed some kind of fruit to even the sugary sweetness with something more natural. Atem smiled at Yugi's thoughts and agreed after a moment.

Kisara was taking her time eating, a little worried that something may set off another sickness fit, but her face lit up in delight at the sugary desert.

Isis saw her glow and laughed slightly behind a smothering hand. She leaned to Mahad and said something into his ear. Mahad listened, interested, then his eyes widened slightly before he laughed too. He beamed at Kisara "Hey Kissy?"

Kisara looked over at him, seeming a bit surprised at the nickname. Seth looked too and chuckled a bit, he squeezed her shoulder since his long arm was already around her shoulders – his lanky frame meant he wasn't leaning awkwardly out of his seat at all. Yugi watched, interested. Kisara gathered her wits and smiled slightly shyly "Yes?"

Mahad put his arm around his beautiful wife "Isis thinks you've got a very big sweet tooth, is that right?"

Kisara glanced down at her desert and blushed, her shoulders raising and she nodded "Yes, that's true …"

Isis smiled at her and Mahad grinned "Sweet tooth for a sweet girl." Kisara giggled and Seth rolled his eyes. The man of the evening absently rubbed his wife's hand with his thumb "If you like sweet stop by ours sometime, there's a great bakery by our apartment that only does the sweet stuff, not a loaf in sight."

Mana chipped in with a quick "Bet he only knows about it because he goes there all the time, right Isis?" Isis nodded with an affectionate look in her husband's direction. Mahad rubbed the back of his head as the girls laughed at him. Isis smiled and fed him a bit of pastry from her plate, his was finished already, trying to make up for the light teasing.

Mahad ate it and kissed her cheek "Shukran habib," (Thanks darling). Isis smiled and they linked hands, their foreheads touching.

Yugi sighed slightly to himself as the couple shared a moment. "They're so sweet together," he said to Atem.

Atem nodded "Yes. He'd follow her to the end of the earth," he cleaned his plate also and sighed in satisfaction "When he first met her she was all he could talk about when he came home from university. Isis this and Isis that, Mother had to meet her and wouldn't take no for an answer." He laughed and Yugi tilted his head at him, interested. Atem calmed slightly and continued "When Mother came back she was just as bad, Isis this and Isis that."

Yugi smiled "Did everyone's date leave such a good impression?" he asked.

Atem winced a bit "None of my past dates, as you well know," he nodded at Kisara "Maman liked Kisara nearly instantly too, but she nearly scared her off because she was so nervous, even more than you," he patted Yugi's shoulder.

Yugi rolled his eyes "I can sympathise, Thema's lovely, but … er," he searched for the right word. He rubbed his temple slightly "Intimidating?"

Atem shuddered "I would have said 'overbearing', or 'scary'," he pulled at his tie slightly and leaned back against his seat casually.

Yugi raised an eyebrow "Scary?" he questioned. To him Thema was a lovely lady, very motherly, regal and powerful in her will and influence but she wasn't scary. At least not anymore. She now was a loving woman who found delight in seeing people happy and having her family close and content.

Atem met Yugi's eyes and smiled slightly "You weren't raised by her," he pointed out.

Yugi nodded in acknowledgement "Well she raised a good family, and a good son," he said with slight hesitation as a blush rose to his cheeks.

Atem raised an eyebrow before smiling "I'm glad you think so," he reached out and cupped Yugi's cheek "But remember you bring out the best in me," he murmured, his eyes liquid but kind.

Yugi smiled and leaned into his hand.

Thema smiled silently, not willing to interrupt their moment. She lightly nudged her husband and nodded in their direction "Regardez-les," (Look at them) she sighed, leaning on his broad shoulder with her eyes half closed and her smile glowing.

Aknamkanon saw the two young men talking, teasing and sharing affectionate looks and gestures and now they looked like they had forgotten about the rest of their company. He hummed deeply and chuckled slightly "Atem semble très heureux," (Atem looks very happy) he agreed.

Thema squeezed his arm "Ils la fois faire, ne peuvent pas tu voir à quel point prés ils sont? Yugi ferait un excellent gendre," (They both do, can't you see how close they are? Yugi would make a great son in law) she hinted with a minx smile.

Aknamkanon laughed again and covered her hand "Thema cher. ne pas se laisser emporter, les laisser découvrir par eux-mêmes. Ils y sont presque là," (Thema dear, don't get carried away, let them figure it out on their own. They're almost there) he advised.

Thema sighed graciously and nodded "Bien sûr," (Of course). She stood and lightly tossed her hair over her shoulder "Je vais prendre ma place sur la scène maintenant, espérons que je suis encore aussi bon que je me souviens," (I'll take my place on the stage now, let's hope I'm still as good as I remember) she winked.

Aknamkanon smiled lovingly as Thema made her way to the live band and took her place on the stage. All around him at the table there was a buzz of excitement, Yugi and Atem broke out of their private conversation and turned to watch the beautiful woman stand before the microphone.

Yugi thought Thema looked like a red head version of Madonna, glamourous and timeless. She glittered and glowed on the stage where she stood, and her confident smile made him excited for a great performance.

She tapped the microphone once to check that it was on, she spoke in English with a wave around the room "Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I hope you are all enjoying your stay in Egypt. I am your hostess Thema Sennen and tonight I will be singing my wonderful son and his beautiful wife a song for their anniversary. Please come up and dance Mahad and Isis," she beckoned with a playful smile.

Mahad and Isis shared a slightly exasperated look at her insistence as they joined hands, Mahad grinning from ear to ear, and Isis smiling in her beautifully mysterious way with a dark blush across her cheekbones. Those sitting in the room began to clap and cheer for the couple as they made their ways to the floor.

Thema smiled "For you, my dears."

Mahad took Isis's hand and put a hand on her waist as she rested her hand on his shoulder. Their eyes were locked and their hold was relaxed and cherishing, they smiled even though they were blushing slightly due to the centre of attention Thema was putting on them. They looked like the perfect couple.

Soft guitar and piano began in the air and Thema took the microphone in her hands and breathed in to start her singing. "Chaque fois que nos regards se croisent, ce sentiment intérieur de moi, est presque plus que je peux prendre." (Every time our eyes meet, this feeling inside me, is almost more than I can take)

Yugi silently wowed.

Thema's voice was low and steady, beautiful and held a classic tone that was normally found on old vinyl. It filled the air with a wonderful sound, filtering naturally through the speakers, and she seemed to lead the music rather than follow it. Her voice alone was enough for entertainment, her confident and rich tones were fascinating to listen to, the music accompanying her set the mood perfectly for the slow dance for the husband and wife of one year.

Thema smiled kindly at her son and daughter in law, Yugi thought he saw a tear in her eye and her voice filled with more emotion. "Bébé quand tu me touches, Je peux sentir combien tu me aimes, et il me souffle juste loin." (Baby when you touch me, I can feel how much you love me and it just blows me away)

Mahad and Isis were turning gracefully on the spot, taking a few steps to set a rhythm and then fluidly stepping out of their box and into frames like professional dancers. Isis's dress made her appear floating, and Mahad's suit made him appear tall and sure footed. He smiled and his lips moved in time with his Mother's, singing the romantic slow song.

"Je ne ai jamais été aussi proche de quelqu'un ou quelque chose, Je peux entendre vos pensées, Je peux voir vos rêves." (I've never been this close to anyone or anything, I can hear your thoughts, I can see your dreams)

Isis's smile was the widest Yugi had ever seen, and she positively glowed with it.

The music built up slightly and Thema raised her voice for what was clearly the chorus "Je ne sais pas comment vous faites ce que vous faites, Je suis tellement en amour avec vous! Il cesse de se améliorer," (I don't know how you do what you do, I'm so in love with you! It just keeps getting better) Mahad caught the moment and gripped Isis by her waist and effortlessly lifted her to spin her on the spot, their dining hall of watchers cheered and clapped.

Isis gasped and laughed once she realised what he was doing, holding his shoulders tightly while he lowered her back to earth, she was laughing and leaned into him to have her arms around him, absently turning on the spot.

"Je veux passer le reste de ma vie avec toi à mes côtés. Toujours et à jamais." (I wanna spend the rest of my life with you by my side. Forever and ever) Yugi applauded with the rest of the family and with a few onlookers. He sighed slightly dreamily, caught up in the sappy, romantic mood that the married couple were spreading.

It must be wonderful to have someone like they did. They had abandoned any form of fancy dancing and were just embracing and swaying, occasionally turning, on the spot. Lost in a bubble with each other, sincerely happy smiles on their faces. "Chaque petite chose que vous faites, Bébé, je suis étonné par vous …" (Every little thing that you do, Baby I'm amazed by you)

The chorus ended with Thema's voice lowering back to a soothing tone that showed the rich tones of her classic, low singing voice. She smiled at the table watching and beckoned with a regal, welcoming hand for others to join them.

Seth wasted no time and stood and led Kisara out of her seat, escorting her stuttering and shy form to the dance floor. Mana leapt from her seat and tugged on her Father's arm, and they followed just behind with the kindly Father laughing as he was dragged. Yugi sent a shy look Atem's way when he stood from his seat.

"L'odeur de votre peau, le goût de ton baiser, la façon dont vous chuchoter dans l'obscurité." (The smell of your skin, the taste of your kiss, the way you whisper in the dark)

Atem smiled charmingly and offered a hand "Dance with me?" he invited. His eyes were darkly mesmerising just like the last time, but this time Yugi was not afraid, and had come to see those dark eyes as something comforting and warm.

Yugi took his hand and stood with him, remembering their first date clearly.

"Vos cheveux tout autour de moi, Bébé tu me entourent, vous touchez tous les place dans mon coeur," (Your hair all around me, Baby you surround me, you touch every place in my heart) Yugi glanced Thema's way as they approached and she winked. He smiled back and naturally moved into hold with Atem.

Atem smiled, his face set into a tender expression as they began to step in an easy box. Yugi sighed and relaxed under Atem's steadying hands "This is nice," he said softly.

Atem nodded with only a smile, bringing his arms closer so there was barely an inch between them, gazing into each other's eyes as their automatic movements kept them in time with the music.

"Oh il se sent comme la première fois à chaque fois, Je veux passer toute la nuit dans vos yeux." (Oh it feels like the first time every time, I wanna spend the whole night in your eyes) Around them the other couples and Father and daughter danced with pleased glances their way.

Seth whispered to Kisara as they watched Yugi and Atem and she giggled in delight and hugged him, resting her head so she could watch. Mana just beamed when she twirled around pointed silently to them as she bounced on the spot, her Father nodded, satisfied. Isis and Mahad sent a brief smile and thought their way when they realised their lone dance had been joined by their beloved family.

Isis watched with peaceful eyes as they danced. She nodded at Atem and Yugi and Mahad chuckled, "Correct as always, Isis."

"Je ne sais pas comment vous faites ce que vous faites, Je suis tellement en amour avec vous! Il cesse de se améliorer," (I don't know how you do what you do, I'm so in love with you! It just keeps getting better) Thema held the microphone poll with a sappy look on her face as she, along with the rest of their family, watched Yugi and Atem dance. She smiled and resisted the urge to sigh happily mid-song.

Yugi glowed under the lights. Atem admired him closely, his eyes dark, but warm as he pulled Yugi flush against him and squeezed the hand they held; trying to express his emotions without words. Yugi's eyes lit up slightly when Atem softly sang the next line along with his Mother, Atem was glad "Je veux passer le reste de ma vie, avec toi à mes côtés. Toujours et à jamais," (I wanna spend the rest of my life, with you by my side. Forever and ever)

Yugi smiled and felt his heart leaping crazily in his chest when Atem murmured in his deep octave that often had him melting into a mattress of some kind. He felt red rushing to his cheeks and tilted his head closer to Atem's so their foreheads rested. "Chaque petite chose que vous faites, Bébé, je suis étonné par vous," (Every little thing that you do, Baby I'm amazed by you.

They somehow missed Kisara's whispering 'aww' at their actions, and Mana's giggles. The only pair who were leaving them be was Isis and Mahad, who had returned to their own little bubble, Mahad's hand climbed up her back to rub her shoulder blades and his other lowered sneakily to her lower hips. Isis's eyes glittered as his danced with mirth. She smiled slightly, trying to hide her amusement, and casually pulled his hand back up to her waist with a small laugh.

"Every little thing that you do, I'm so in love with you! It just keeps getting better," (Chaque petite chose que vous faites, Je suis tellement en amour avec vous! Il cesse de se améliorer) Atem dropped his extended hand and warped them both around Yugi, holding him close and closing his eyes. Yugi thought Atem looked very handsome, he seized the moment and pecked his lips, making Atem's eyes open in surprise. Yugi smiled sweet and innocently and rested his head on Atem's shoulder while wrapping his arms around his waist.

Atem sighed and held him back, smiling as he heard his sister cooing at them in the background. He was glad Yugi was fine showing affection in front of them, and he was deeply happy to be able to hold him as he was now and to have his family fine with it.

"Je veux passer le reste de ma vie avec toi à mes côtés. Toujours et à jamais," (I wanna spend the rest of my life with you by my side. Forever and ever) Atem opened one eye and saw his Mother wink at him as she finished her song. He rolled his eyes slightly while holding back a smile.

He let the smile appear when they had turned away from her and turned his head back to Yugi and pressed him into a deeper hug. Yugi smiled and just enjoyed the moment, loving being held and feeling safe. All his worries about the future took a backseat while they swayed.

Thema blew a quick kiss to Aknamkanon as she finished "Chaque petite chose que vous faites. Oh, chaque petite chose que vous faites, Bébé, je suis étonné par vous," (Every little thing that you do. Oh, every little thing that you do, Baby I'm amazed by you)

Atem used one hand to raise Yugi's chin slightly and kissed him. Yugi closed his eyes and kissed back, both keeping it brief due to the company, but both also caught up in the moment. The not so subtle romantic atmosphere Thema had created had overtaken the casual family mood, and Atem couldn't resist the urge to kiss the amazing person in his arms.

In the brief moment before they parted, and blushed, and took loving teases from the other Sennens, they felt content.

---

How romantic, I'm actually getting a toothache with the amount of sweet that's going on in this chapter.

The song was "Amazed" by Lonestar. I looked and listened to the = "Amazed" Lonestar Cover by Briana Layfield Music = you can go search that up, it's in English and I put it into French because Thema is French, and it's hard to sing in another language, no other reason.

I hope you enjoyed the interaction and that you'll leave me some nice reviews, I think I've still got space for a few more on my wall.

I thought it was a nice way to celebrate Isis and Mahad's wedding anniversary, I can imagine Thema wanting to have a big, yet intimate do to celebrate. I bet Aknamkanon just went along with it, but he's often on the same wavelength as she is, and I think he often reigns her in. She's the kind of woman who has to know who and where and why as soon as it happens, and meddle in anything she thinks is moving too slow or isn't working as it is. All with good intentions, but she needs Aknamkanon as a husband to gently remind her that some things work better unchecked.

But I'll let you in on this: she is up to something, and she's going to reveal it next chapter. Atem may or may not be very pleased by it ...