･ Soleil Boulangerie ･

by prettiugli

A small, popular bakery opens up across from the university that Yami attends. Seto Kaiba wants to pursue his baking hobby and has worked very hard to land a position at that bakery. He'll be damned if anyone recognizes him, so he decides to change his appearance a bit. Miraculously, Yami doesn't seem to recognize him. [AU, Prideshipping, smut, COMPLETED]

14. The complete blankness

Kaiba pulled his car into his garage and shut the engine off. He had a throbbing headache and was having trouble seeing straight.

Heaving himself out of the car, he pressed the keys moodily and stormed up the stairs into the house. Kaiba threw his keys and phones onto his desk and peeled the clothes off of his body, tossing them into the stainless steel hamper by the door of his bathroom. He stumbled into the shower and turned the water on clumsily, his contacts were beginning to dry in his eyes and it was becoming more painful with each blink.

The water rushed down on him powerfully and steam curled up around his body thickly. Kaiba stared glumly down at the shower floor, watching the black dye run off his body and down the drain. He had failed to quit the bakery, and what's more the bakery's success now depended on his presence, at least for the time being. This was a family run business and Kaiba understood Jason's objective to keep his employees consistent. After all, he himself was the same way.

He felt his shoulders sag tiredly as he stared bleakly at the water, which now ran clear of dye, swirling down the drain. Sighing, Kaiba shut the water off and wrapped a towel around his waist casually, crossing the bathroom in a few long strides towards the mirror. He stared at his reflection, watching as beads of water dripped off of his face and down his chin.

Brown eyes, brown hair, Kaiba mused, turning his head carefully from left to right, noticing his right eye was slowly becoming red. He quickly rummaged around his drawers and pulled out the eye drops.

Kaiba held his breath as the cold liquid pooled in the corners of his eye and he felt the contacts shift across his vision. Leaning forwards, he peeled them out of his eyes and tossed them back into their plastic container.

Kaiba reached up to the top shelf of his cabinet for his cologne and spritzed himself twice out of pure habit.

S-Shit! Kaiba gritted his teeth as he pulled the towel quickly across his body, trying to disperse the scent. He didn't want to fucking smell like Hiro, or even be reminded of that fact, when he was back in his own home as himself.

Grumbling at his own stupidity, Kaiba roughly toweled his hair dry and inspected his reflection again.

A brunette with messily ruffled hair and clear blue eyes stared back at him; Kaiba scowled. He tossed the towel onto the rack and didn't bother getting dressed before throwing himself down naked into his bed and slipping tiredly underneath the comforter.

Kaiba stared up at the high ceiling before slowly turning over and closing his eyes, willing his mind to go blank.

---

There was already a small crowd of people waiting by the entrance of the bakery as Anzu, Yugi, and Yami stood on the opposite side of the street, waiting for the walk sign to flash.

Yami felt Yugi's grip tighten over his wrist as they walked slowly across the street. Yami's heart was thudding painfully in his chest as they approached the crowd of people forming around the glass windows. He could see the other tall man in the far back, bending forwards and sliding sliced cakes neatly into the glass display.

Yami blinked as he tried to recall the man's name. All he could remember was Hiro defending him when the man kept insisting he was Yugi. The blood rushed to Yami's head again and he pulled his phone out of his pocket, checking for messages. The phone screen was dark.

"That looks delicious!" Yugi exclaimed, craning his head over the crowd, looking into the store.

Suddenly, a petite brunette wearing a mint apron with thin white stripes rushed forwards and began unlocking the front door, motioning for people to back away slightly.

Yami felt Anzu tense up beside him and he looked up at her curiously, watching her stare at the small girl in the doorway.

"Welcome in! Good morning!" The girl chirped, propping the door open as the throngs of students filed past her excitedly.

"Yugi!" She cried happily, tucking the shop keys into her apron pocket. Yami felt Yugi's fingers drop away from his wrist as the girl rushed forwards and grabbed hold both of Yugi's hands.

Yami now understood why Anzu was so tense and he glanced at her again, noticing her knuckles had become white as she tightly gripped the strap on her purse.

The girl was chatting excitedly with Yugi and she was tugging him into the bakery with an animated look on her face. Yugi was smiling and nodding back at her politely. Yami jutted up on his toes trying to see past the bakery's counter and through the kitchen flaps, half expecting Hiro to appear. Yami gripped his phone again, wondering if he should send another text.

The girl led them aside and pulled out a pad of paper, blushing as Yugi took it from her and signed it. Yami suddenly remembered that this was the girl with the large fluffy white dog, and Hiro had made a joke about her name...what was it...May? or June...?

She was gazing adoringly at Yugi while he was signing the pad, and Yami noticed Yugi was also blushing slightly now. Yami could feel Anzu silently raging beside him but he didn't care. He wanted to know where Hiro was.

Yami felt like someone was staring at him, and he perked up, his eyes roaming over the room suspiciously. He caught the eye of the tall man who was working at the register, and the man quickly looked away, smiling brightly at the next customer in line.

Ah, him. Yami thought darkly, He knows where Hiro is, I am sure of it.

Yami turned back to watch the girl who was shaking Yugi's hand vigorously, she was speaking so fast he was finding it hard to follow. "We have something for you!"

Yugi laughed nervously, "Thank you...!"

"Let me go get it!" She cried, and she rushed back behind the counter, brushing shoulders with the tall man at the register, who whispered something to her, and she nodded before disappearing through the flaps and into the kitchen.

Yami craned his neck once more as the kitchen flaps pushed back slightly, and he wondered if Hiro was too busy to come out. Sighing tensely, Yami fished his phone out and texted Hiro, "I am here!" He sent it glumly and shoved the phone back into his pocket, watching as the girl rushed out from the kitchen holding a giant mint green striped box with a clear film top.

"For you!" She cried, holding the box out with both hands respectfully towards Yugi, "And you!" she added, looking bashfully over at Yami.

Anzu stood motionless beside Yami, absently scrolling through her phone, feigning indifference.

Yugi's eyes widened as he accepted the box from her, "Thank you June! Wow, a whole cake!"

Her name is June! Yami blinked, angry at himself for not remembering sooner. The dog's name was May.

"Yes!" June cried excitedly, "Hiro...sends his regards." And she threw a look over her shoulder to the man behind the counter. Yami noticed this and his suspicions peaked.

"If I may ask..." Yami said softly, his voice almost drowned out by the chatter of the excited students standing in line, "Where is Hiro?"

The girl looked nervous as she smiled back at him, "He..left a bit early today. But he made this for you guys!" She threw Yugi another adoring look, nodding enthusiastically. "Please come by often! We will have new flavors every month!"

He left?! Yami thought, his heart sinking into his stomach. But doesn't he usually stay until the afternoon?

Yugi was now taking a photo with June while holding the cake, smiling happily. The girl squealed, asking for another one, claiming her hand shook.

"Did he say where he was going?" Yami interjected, feeling irritated.

June lowered the phone camera and looked at him, almost sadly, "He'll be back tomorrow! Don't worry!"

Yami nodded his head stiffly in thanks, unsure of what else to say.

They headed towards the door and the girl ran forwards to give Yugi another one armed hug, carefully avoiding the cake box he was holding, "Bye Yugi!"

Anzu was already by the corner of the street, a few yards away from the bakery's entrance, ignoring them viciously.

Yugi waved lightly and turned towards Yami with a beaming smile, "Cool! Free cake!"

Yami nodded, uninterested. He pulled his phone out of his pocket, checking it again for messages. Nothing. Yami shoved it back into his pocket, his anxiety rising. Perhaps Hiro was at his home, asleep, because they had stayed up so late last night.

"Stop it." Yugi said suddenly, looking at Yami carefully.

Yami glanced at Yugi, surprised. "Stop ..what?"

"That." Yugi said, dipping his head down and glaring at Yami's pocket, "You're checking your phone every five seconds. Were you trying to reach Hiro? He's probably busy back there, baking all this stuff for everyone."

They had approached the street side where Anzu stood waiting and Yami watched as she pressed the walk button roughly.

"He's..not answering, so he must be busy." Yami said monotonously, trying to reassure himself. This was strange considering how Hiro was always responsive no matter how busy or tired he seemed to be.

Yugi left his side to walk alongside Anzu as they crossed the street and Yami looked at the ground, their shadows falling thinly over the pavement as the morning sun began to rise higher into the sky.

Perhaps, I will catch him when he leaves, Yami resolved, running his hand absently over the ridges of his phone.

Yugi and Anzu were getting farther and farther away from him, and Yami shook his head. He turned to walk in the opposite direction; his classroom was on the left side of campus and Yugi and Anzu were heading towards the right.

He watched their backs moodily, realizing they probably wouldn't notice if he'd just left, and so he did, without saying a word.

Yugi smiled at Anzu, reassuring her that the girl from the bakery was not nearly as pretty as she was, before stopping in his steps. "Where's Yami?" Yugi cried, looking around him.

"Oh," Anzu said absently, "I think he left a while ago. His class is that way." She tilted her head over to the left.

Yugi nodded, looking down at the beautifully piped cream roses sitting atop the cake and he had a peculiar feeling that this cake was meant for Yami.

Reminding himself to bring it up with Yami later, Yugi smiled at Anzu again and they continued on their way across campus.

---

Kaiba rolled over comfortably and cracked his eyelids open slightly.

The setting sun cast orange strips of light into his room and Kaiba rolled over, pulling the sheets over his head, thinking that was strange.

Kaiba sat up suddenly, realizing he had just slept through the entire day. He looked around him, realizing that he had fallen asleep naked.

Kaiba peeled the comforter off and the scent from his cologne rose up pleasantly around him.

Shit, now I need to fucking wash these sheets, Kaiba growled to himself angrily. Just another thing to put on his endless to-do list.

Kaiba leapt over to his closet, pulling on a plain grey V neck t-shirt and a soft pair of light blue jeans. He froze in the middle of stepping into the leg of his pants, realizing he was dressing himself as Hiro.

Ah, fuck it, Kaiba thought hastily, These clothes are more comfortable anyway.

He stepped into a pair of Hiro's white canvas shoes as he briefly entertained Yami's shocked expression if and when he would notice.

His stomach growled painfully as he snatched a thin belt bearing his logo off a hook and buckled it around his waist. He hadn't eaten anything all day, again.

Sighing, Kaiba slid the closet door shut and quickly made the bed. He glanced at the two phones sitting at his desk and he felt himself sweat slightly.

This was the first time Hiro had not shown up at the bakery to see Yami. Would Yami be angry?

Kaiba made his way over to his desk and cautiously picked up Hiro's phone. There was one text message, "I'm here!" Yami had written, and it was sent at 7 AM this morning.

Wow, close one. Kaiba thought, as he remembered he had just left the parking lot around 6:30.

His company phone buzzed and Kaiba picked it up, his head heavy. He didn't feel like doing anything work-related. He just wanted to eat.

It was a text from Isono, "Mr. Yugi is at the door, shall I..-"

Kaiba felt the world stand still. This was probably, most definitely, Yami.

There was a soft knock at his door and Mokuba's voice drifted in through the crack, "Seto? Are you awake?"

Kaiba quickly turned Hiro's phone off and shoved it hastily into the desk drawer. He strode across the room and yanked the door open.

Mokuba was looking at him with an expression of deep concern, which quickly morphed into a tentative smile when Kaiba smiled gently down at his little brother.

"Hi Seto, are you feeling better?" Mokuba asked hopefully, his smile widening when he noticed his brother was dressed more casually than usual.

"Yeah I am, "Kaiba said, leaning down to pull Mokuba into a warm hug. "I'm starving. What do you want to eat? We'll go anywhere you want."

Mokuba's head spun slightly as the musky fresh scent from Seto's cologne washed over him.

"A-Actually..." Mokuba said, pulling back and looking extremely nervous, "I came up here to tell you that Yami is here..."

Kaiba felt his heart skip a beat and he blinked stupidly at Mokuba, "Yes, downstairs?"

Mokuba shook his head, "Outside. Isono is..keeping him company, but I am hungry!"

"Right.." Kaiba said numbly, his mind racing, "So, what would you like to eat?"

Mokuba looked stricken, "B-But Yami is..."

"I know, Yami is outside," Kaiba said patiently, "What would you like to eat? Pick your favorite restaurant and we'll all go out together."

Mokuba fell silent as he looked down at his toes, wondering if this was a good idea at all. Although...there was one thing he had been wanting to eat all week, and that was meat with hot soup.

"Shabu Shabu?" Mokuba cried hopefully, looking up at Seto with his large grey eyes. "I'm craving Shabu Shabu!" Mokuba's stomach growled excitedly at the thought of all the meat and mushrooms bubbling a large pot in front of him and his mouth began to water painfully.

Hot pot, huh, Kaiba mused internally, "Okay." he said as he stood up gracefully, pocketing his company phone in one hand and reaching out to Mokuba with the other.

Mokuba grabbed his hand eagerly and they headed down the grand staircase together. Mokuba could barely contain himself. Seto must be in a great mood, he thought excitedly, probably because Yami is here again.

They reached the bottom stair and Mokuba let go of Seto's hand, rushing to the doorway and lugging the heavy door open.

Kaiba was greeted with the sight of Yami, who stood apprehensively beside Isono, gripping his phone tightly, looking stressed. He was wearing a large sleeveless hoodie and Kaiba couldn't help but stare at Yami's nicely toned arms.

Yami seemed to follow his sentiment because his angular violet eyes began darting around Kaiba's face, past his shoulders and all the way down to the tips of white canvas shoes.

Yami felt his heart stop in his chest. Kaiba was wearing Hiro's shoes. Hiro's jeans...or was he? Yami couldn't quite tell. He wasn't sure if he was merely imprinting his hallucinations onto Kaiba's casual outfit, or if it was wishful thinking.

"Nice..outfit." Yami managed, biting back a delirious laugh.

Mokuba froze and his eyes darted between Seto and Yami, wondering how Seto would react to Yami's compliment.

Kaiba smiled smoothly at Yami and gestured towards the limousine a few feet away, "Thank you."

Mokuba let out a tiny sigh of relief, thankful that this dinner wasn't going to be a complete shout-fest.

Yami was frozen to the spot, his phone slipping slightly out of his grasp. "Where are you going?" he asked faintly, unsure if he wanted to know the answer. He had just gotten here after an exhausting day of worrying about Hiro, he wasn't in the mood for one of Kaiba's guessing games. He was here to apologize for his inconsiderate behavior on the boardwalk. He was here to accept Kaiba's offer of...spending more time together.

"Where are we going," Kaiba corrected, and he brushed past Yami towards the limousine, with Mokuba following closely behind him.

Yami stood a bit away from them as Kaiba swung the door open and let Mokuba climb in before him.

Kaiba stepped aside, holding the door wide open, gesturing for Yami to get in. Isono was hovering behind Kaiba, patting his brow with a handkerchief, undoubtedly distressed that his door-opening job had been taken away from him in that one moment.

"I can manage, Isono. Thank you." Kaiba said shortly, nodding at his manservant.

Isono bowed and hurried around the nose of the car, quickly disappearing on the other side as he got into the driver's seat.

"Get. in." Kaiba enunciated, his stomach growling painfully, "I am really hungry, I haven't eaten anything all day."

Mokuba watched with wide eyes, sitting right up against the window in the far back, holding his breath. Seto was trying so hard to be nice, it was painful to watch.

Yami couldn't tear his eyes away from Kaiba's light blue jeans paired with his white canvas shoes, and he found it difficult to move or speak, so much so that his eyes began to water dangerously.

Sighing heavily, Kaiba ducked his head into the limousine and motioned for Isono to start the engine.

Yami heard the car turn over as Kaiba stepped towards him quickly and grabbed him lightly by the wrist, leading him gently towards the open car door.

Yami felt his feet dragging across the pavement as he was pulled into the car. Kaiba loomed over him, his cold blue gaze piercing right through him, "In."

Yami nodded weakly and he ducked down into the limousine, feeling his leather pants slide uncomfortably against the leather of the seats as he inched himself towards Mokuba.

Mokuba's eyes widened as Yami got closer and he hastily undid his seat belt, reaching frantically for the door handle, Mokuba grabbed it and pushed the door open, bolting out of the car and slamming the door back in Yami's face.

Startled, Yami frowned, wondering if he had did something to upset Mokuba.

"Kiddo, where are you going?" Kaiba asked, sticking his head up over the roof of the car to look strangely at Mokuba.

"I'm going to sit in the front." Mokuba said fervently as he circled the car and pulled open the passenger door.

Kaiba watched him with slight amusement and waited for Mokuba to get settled into the seat before climbing into seat beside Yami and closing the door softly beside him.

He could feel Yami tense instantly and Kaiba leaned forwards, raising his voice making sure Isono could hear him, "Are we all ready?"

"Yep." Mokuba responded, not turning around. Isono coughed slightly as he pulled the car off the Kaiba property.

Smirking, Kaiba leaned back into the leather seats and crossed his legs gracefully one over the other. He could feel Yami staring at him, watching his every move, probably undoubtedly shaken at the sight of Hiro's clothes on his body.

Yami stared at the scenery flashing by outside his tinted window, noticing how the trees looked slightly orange due to how dark the windows were. He glanced back over at Kaiba and couldn't help but stare at the light blue fabric covering his long slender legs. Yami wanted to reach out to touch the fabric, just to verify that Kaiba was actually wearing jeans.

Kaiba was sitting so close to Yami, their legs were millimeters apart. One small jolt or turn of the car would push Yami's leg up against Kaiba's, and Kaiba forced himself not to react. He knew Yami was very distressed by this fact alone, and that thought kept him sane.

Yami was aware that Kaiba was staring at him, but Yami didn't care. He was having a bad day, and he didn't have the energy to put up a front. He turned away from the window again to stare at Kaiba's legs, trying to imagine Hiro's face attached to them. And as it turned out, that was quite an easy task.

Yami unconsciously reached a hand out to brush his fingers across the fabric of Kaiba's jeans, completely unaware that he was actually moving forwards to touch him.

Kaiba was calmly enjoying the scenery pass by his window when he suddenly felt something graze over his knee lightly. He slowly turned his head downwards, and froze in his seat, realizing that Yami was absently running a finger over the fabric of his jeans.

Kaiba swallowed nervously and felt himself break out into a cold sweat.

Yami continued to drag his finger over the light blue fabric, his gaze fixed on the tips of Kaiba's white canvas shoes. Yami could've sworn he had seen Hiro wear almost the exact same pair last night.

Suddenly, a large hand came down and wrapped warmly over the top of Yami's hand. Yami froze and blinked as horror crept up around him slowly when he realized he had been causally touching Kaiba's knee.

Yami opened his mouth to apologize, but Kaiba's hand tightened firmly over his. Yami paused and leaned forwards slightly, trying to see Kaiba's face but his head turned to face the window, making him completely unreadable.

Yami took several deep breaths as he leaned back into the seat, feeling slightly dizzy, his mind racing. Kaiba's hand over his, felt...warm and inviting. Yami's hand was pressed down onto Kaiba's knee, and he could feel the warmth from Kaiba's skin through the fabric.

They stayed that way for the rest of the ride. Yami clenched his free hand down at his side, trying to relax, but he couldn't. His entire body was on fire, and it was all just from a casual touch of Kaiba's hand over his.

Kaiba felt Yami shift uncomfortably beside him and he loosened his grip slightly, knowing he had been squeezing a bit too firmly. To his pleasant surprise, Yami didn't pull his hand back. Instead, he was staring resolutely out the window, his face and ears red with embarrassment.

Kaiba swallowed thinly, restraining himself from leaning forward to kiss Yami down along his blushing pink face and neck. He wanted to, so badly. He wanted to run his hands along the soft muscular curves of Yami's bare arms and to feel his warmth against his body. They were sitting so close, he could easily do it.

Stop it, Kaiba berated himself. They were in the car with Mokuba and Isono, and that kind of behavior in front of Mokuba...Kaiba shook his head slightly and he felt Yami jerk his head to look at him, startled.

Kaiba tilted his head at Yami and smiled gently, nodding. The car pulled to a slow stop in a parking lot and Kaiba forced himself to let go of Yami's hand.

Yami's blush deepened and Kaiba tried his best to ignore it, carefully pushing the door open and stepping out into the cool, summer night air.

Yami sat very still. Goosebumps ran up his arms as his hand suddenly became cold when Kaiba's hand had left his. He watched Mokuba climb out eagerly and join Kaiba outside the car so Yami roused himself and delicately stepped out of the limousine.

Kaiba watched as Yami climbed out of the limousine gingerly, clearly shell-shocked. He reached around Yami and shut the car door behind him, patting the door twice, signalling his gratitude towards Isono.

They watched silently as Isono pulled away in the limousine and turned the corner, the red taillights disappearing quickly in the distance.

The street around them was deserted and Yami began to feel uneasy. Mokuba cheered lightly beside Kaiba and grabbed his older brother's slender fingers in his small fist. Yami's eyes followed Mokuba's motions, almost feeling envious at his carefree demeanor.

As they continued up the street, Yami watched the Kaiba brothers sullenly, keeping a few paces behind Kaiba, seeing Mokuba grin widely up at his older brother, and watching Kaiba smile gently back at him.

They turned another corner and Yami found himself standing at the entrance of a small rectangular plaza, lined neatly with two-story restaurants. An elegant water fountain sat in the center of the plaza, surrounded neatly by brightly-lit trees.

Yami felt his breath catch in his throat as his eyes traveled over the beautifully arranged storefronts. Were they still in the city? He had never seen this place before!

"Oh noo!" Mokuba cried, pointing upwards at a small crowd of people lined up at one of restaurant entrances above them, "There's still a line?!"

Kaiba pulled Mokuba close to his side and threw a glance over his shoulder, making sure Yami was still with them, "That won't be an issue, Mokuba. Let's go." He nodded at Yami, trying to catch his eye, but Yami wasn't paying attention. His eyes were straying over towards the benches surrounding the fountain, staring at a couple who was sharing a soft serve ice cream.

Kaiba let go of Mokuba's hand and stepped in front of Yami's vision, "Dessert.. comes after the main course." Kaiba said stiffly, staring down at Yami who's dark violet eyes widened up at him.

Mokuba looked up curiously, wondering what Seto was talking about, and he followed Yami's gaze. His eyes landed on the couple sharing the ice cream and he felt himself blush slightly. Suddenly, Seto swept him up in his arms and walked towards the restaurant. Mokuba blinked, surprised, but locked his arms obediently around Seto's neck, watching Yami stand awkwardly behind them.

Mokuba gestured for Yami to come along with them, and Yami nodded vaguely and moved himself to follow, feeling slightly lightheaded.

Kaiba climbed the stairs easily, Mokuba's weight straining against his arms slightly with each step.

"You're too big to be carried," Kaiba said roughly, setting Mokuba down at the top of the stairs, noticing the people in line turn to stare at them.

Mokuba grinned up at Seto, but his smile faded quickly when saw the tips of Yami's spiky hair slowly coming up the stairs behind his brother. He pulled Seto towards the entrance quickly, eager to keep them separated.

Kaiba allowed himself to be pulled forwards, knowing that this was going to force Yami to pick up his pace. Mokuba pushed through the crowd of people, pulling Seto firmly behind him, carefully avoiding the shoes and toes of the people in line. They stopped at the podium where the hostess stood and her face turned pale when her eyes met Kaiba's cold gaze.

"Ah...! Mr. Kaiba!" She cried, looking between Mokuba and Kaiba politely, trying to hide her nervousness. Kaiba nodded at her politely; he could hear the whispers of people rustling fearfully behind him in the line.

Yami stood behind the crowd at a distance, rooted to the spot. Suddenly, a bright light flashed in his vision as the woman in front of him held up her mobile phone to photograph Kaiba's tall frame in the doorway of the restaurant.

Yami felt a creeping horror consume him as several more people in the crowd followed suit and pulled out their cell phones to take photos of Kaiba and Mokuba, standing with their backs turned to them, at the entrance. Yami could clearly see the nervousness of the hostess attempting to smile as she gripped her clipboard tightly.

Kaiba thought he saw a flash of light reflected in the glass of the doorway and he tensed. He spoke urgently, addressing the hostess, "If your private rooms are not available, we will leave."

Mokuba looked up incredulously at his older brother. Seto usually never took 'no' for an answer, much less suggest they leave!

She bowed her head quickly and backed away, rushing her speech, "I will check with my manager, please wait here."

Kaiba watched her go, his anxiety rising as he could feel the crowd growing restless behind him. It probably wouldn't be long before..

"Yugi Mutou!" Someone cried loudly, and Kaiba groaned internally, feeling a slight headache coming on.

Mokuba whirled around, interested, and Kaiba kept his gaze firmly facing forwards, his mind racing.

The crowd moved away from the doorway and began to clamor around Yami; women began rummaging around in their purses for slips paper and pens, the men stood slightly off to the side, with their phones out, cameras pointed directly at Yami, filming him casually.

Yami froze as he felt the trickle of horror expand in his chest and sink quickly into his stomach, cementing his feet into the ground.

"Yugi! Are you having dinner with Seto Kaiba?!" One woman shrieked, standing way too close to him, her phone obscuring her face as she held it out in front of her.

Kaiba shut his eyes, praying that the hostess would come back soon, before the crowd turned into a full-on stampede. He glanced down at Mokuba, who was watching the commotion, clearly interested. Kaiba nudged his younger brother slightly, "Go grab him." Kaiba said softly.

Mokuba turned towards Seto with large, wide eyes, "G-grab him?"

"Yeah, bring him over here. We're all going in soon. Don't want him to get lost in the crowd. You'll be able to push through, you're much smaller." Kaiba turned swiftly to glare at the crowd behind him, knowing that if he touched Yami publicly, the media would have a shit-fest about it.

Mokuba tilted his head, slightly confused, but he obliged.

"Excuse me...! Coming though!" Mokuba shouted, elbowing his way through the crowd. People moved aside begrudgingly, not paying him any attention as they were holding up their phones, trying to either catch Kaiba or Yami on camera.

Mokuba spied Yami's tightly clenched fist in his view and he reached out to grab him. He pulled forcefully, causing Yami to stumble forwards slightly.

Yami felt a tiny hand wrap around his wrist and jerk him forwards suddenly. He almost tripped forwards into the crowd, his shoulder bumping painfully against the stranger who was shoving a phone in his face on his left.

"Hey! Hey Yugi! Are you guys friends?!" The man shouted, still trying to lean his phone camera in around his face, his fingers almost brushing against Yami's ear. Yami flinched and kept his gaze downwards, allowing Mokuba to pull him forwards, feeling strangely numb.

Mokuba gripped Yami's slender wrist tightly, determinedly pushing his way back through the crowd towards Seto. He purposely made sure to step on a few open toes, and scuffed his sneakers over the tips of a pair of shiny high heeled shoes, causing a few shrieks and yells.

"I said move your butts people!" Mokuba yelled, his grip slipping slightly off from Yami's wrist as his palms began to sweat. He held on tighter and barreled his way through the remainder of the crowd, rushing to his brother's side for safety.

The crowd bubbled away from Mokuba as he approached his older brother. It was as though Kaiba had an invisible force field of hostility which caused people to back away respectfully.

Kaiba turned around and swept a cold glare across the crowd and at the backs of cell phones, which were all directly pointed at him. He could see some of his own phones in the crowd, his chrome KC logo flashing back at him menacingly.

Thankfully, the hostess appeared before them and gestured them inside, "You have great timing Mr. Kaiba, we actually have two unreserved booths available.." Her eyes landed on Yami and her voice trembled, "Party of three?"

Kaiba nodded curtly, "Yes. Any booth will do."

She bobbed her head awkwardly and led them inside the restaurant.

Yami watched as Mokuba made an ugly face at the crowd behind them before following the woman inside. Yami couldn't help but feel a bubble of approval rise up inside him and he smiled gently down at Mokuba. Mokuba caught his eye and looked away quickly, burying his face into Seto's arm, his cheeks red.

The second Yami stepped into the restaurant, the savory aroma of beef and chicken floated around him as he stepped past various booths of people, sitting excitedly around a large bubbling pot that was filled to the brim with a wide array of colorful meats and vegetables.

Yami's eyes widened as they passed table after table, each with a large boiling pot in the center. He caught a glimpse of a small girl, trying to fit a large slice of meat into her little mouth, using the chopsticks awkwardly with two hands, skewering the slice horizontally.

His mouth began to water and his stomach rumbled loudly as Yami caught another whiff of a full bodied sesame sauce and the sharp tang of a ponzu sauce.

The hostess led them off to the side, sliding a delicate screen door aside, she bowed and gestured for them to enter the private booth.

It was a small, rectangular area with four large floor cushions surrounding a low table. An empty metal pot sat right on top of a small burner at the center of the table, identical to all the other ones Yami had seen when they walked past the other booths.

"Yess!" Mokuba cried happily, kicking off his shoes and climbing nimbly onto the pillow in the farthest corner. He tucked his legs underneath him neatly and he gripped his knees tightly, "Thanks!" He said quickly, looking at the hostess.

She nodded silently at Mokuba and bowed, rushing away, clutching her clipboard.

Yami watched with great interest as Kaiba slipped off his white canvas shoes and lowered himself down across from Mokuba, tucking his long legs beneath him into a formal sitting position. He patted the pillow next to him, motioning for Yami to take a seat beside him.

Yami stood uncertainly at the edge of the booth, wondering if he should refuse. He eyed the pillow beside Mokuba and Mokuba folded his arms at him, "Don't sit next to me. I'll definitely splash you with hot soup while I eat."

"No you will not." Kaiba growled, glaring sternly at his younger brother.

Yami swallowed nervously and slipped off his shoes, slowly easing himself into the booth, the hardness of the wood pressing painfully into his knees as he knelt beside Kaiba, trying to keep the distance between them respectable.

He sat back on his heels nervously, glancing around curiously. Their corner was quiet, and Yami could hear the hustle and bustle of the restaurant on the other side of the wall, along with the light clinking of utensils and laughter floating gently through the room.

Yami heard a light squeaking and watched as waitress appeared beside them, wheeling a cart loaded to the brim with dishes of raw vegetables, meat and sauces. She pointed at three metal pots with thick spouts, sitting on the edge of her cart, "Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth base?"

Yami edged back away from the side of the booth, unconsciously moving closer towards Kaiba, unsure if she was speaking to him.

"Beef!" Mokuba cried, twisting his hands in excitement.

"Let...the guest...choose." Kaiba said slowly, giving Mokuba a look.
Mokuba huffed and sat back on his heels grumpily.

Yami felt himself redden as he focused his gaze on the thinly sliced red marbled beef, neatly arranged in a circle on a plate, sitting at the edge of the waitress's cart. "Beef is fine." he said quietly and the waitress nodded.

She grabbed one of the tall spouted pots and generously poured a hot liquid into the metal pot at the center of the table and leaned around the booth. Yami heard the waitress flip a switch and he jumped slightly, startled, as large flame suddenly burst out from underneath the metal pot and the sharp smell of propane gradually began to fill his nostrils.

Mokuba laughed at happily at Yami's reaction, "That's cool isn't it?"

Kaiba smiled secretly as he watched Yami blink and nod quietly, still obviously shaken. He watched Yami's eyes travel slowly over the large plates of mushrooms, seaweed, and meats, feeling something tug at him inside his chest.

"Everything on the cart." Kaiba said, nodding at the waitress, and the waitress smiled back shakily.

"Then I shall leave the entire cart here, as usual." She said and she gestured towards a small red button beside Kaiba's head alongside the wall, "Press if you need us. Thank you." She bowed deeply so deeply Yami could see the the top of her head, her hair sweeping along the handle of the cart as she straightened up again to leave.

Kaiba smiled widely as the pot in front of them began to bubble merrily, the enticing scent of beef spread slowly around the booth, "Okay Mokuba. Now, you may..."

"Yes yes yes!" Mokuba cried, scooting over quickly to the edge of the booth and grabbing every single plate he could reach and heaping them onto their table.

Yami watched as plate after plate, stacked high with cabbage, mushrooms, carrots, potatoes and various raw meats slid under his nose as Mokuba pushed them towards the boiling pot.

"Be careful please." Kaiba said, as Mokuba nearly spilled a plate in his excitement. "Actually, I'll do it. Go sit back in your corner."

"No!" Mokuba protested, gripping the plate tightly, "I wanna."

"Yami, could you please switch places with me?" Kaiba asked, eyeing the boiling pot as Mokuba's sleeve almost brushed past the open flame when he pushed another plate full of meat across the table.

Yami felt himself grow hot and he nodded, carefully climbing out of the booth, standing quickly. Kaiba gracefully moved across the wooden seats and stepped out of the booth as well, his height towering over Yami, making him feel even more nervous.

"Go ahead." Kaiba said, gesturing for Yami to step in front of him.

Yami nodded quickly, his ears reddening as he knelt down into the booth again, inching towards the back wall, facing Mokuba. He sat down onto the pillow, leaning back on his heels, gripping his knees tightly.

"No need to be so formal," Kaiba said smiling at Yami lightly, "We're here to have a nice meal together."

Yami felt his blush deepen as Kaiba sat back down into the booth, closer to him this time. His heart almost stopped when Yami thought he briefly caught a whiff of...Hiro's cologne, when Kaiba lowered himself down beside him.

"Can we start?!" Mokuba begged, holding his chopsticks between his hands tightly.

"Yes, let's." Kaiba said, grinning widely, dipping his chopsticks into the broth, mixing it slightly.

Yami held his breath, dazzled, as he watched Kaiba smile genuinely; his smile was so handsome, and he was sitting so closely. Yami wasn't sure if it was the hunger that was making him dizzy or if it was Kaiba's casual smiles.

"Finally, thank you!" Mokuba groaned, pulling his plate closer towards him and he started placing a few thinly sliced pieces of meat into the boiling pot.

Yami watched as Mokuba lowered piece after piece of red meat into the broth and pulled it out slowly, fully cooked and dripping with delicious broth.

Yami glanced uncertainly at Kaiba, who was staring intently at him, his clear blue eyes burning holes through his skin.

Yami looked away quickly, his heart thudding loudly in his ears.

Kaiba smirked and he leaned closer towards Yami, pointing at each plate of red meat.

"Lamb," Kaiba said, his slender fingers wrapped around his chopsticks gently, pointing at a plate of tightly rolled pieces of meat, "They arrange it in rolls, so the flavor comes out nicer in the broth. This one is beef," Kaiba pointed at a plate with slightly thicker slices of meat, "And this one is pork." He pointed at another almost identical plate of red marbled meat.

"How can you tell?" Yami asked tentatively, his eyes darting between the plates of meat, unable to tell them apart despite Kaiba's explanation.

"They're slightly...different in color." Kaiba said, and he lifted several thin slices effortlessly into the boiling pot in front of them. "Go ahead, eat as much as you want."

"Pash..mushroomsh pleash!" Mokuba said, his mouth stuffed full, pointing at the plate of mushrooms and seaweed beside his older brother.

Kaiba nodded and picked up several large chopsticks full of food and sunk them into the broth in front of Mokuba. Yami's mouth began to water painfully as he watched the seaweed and large stemmed mushrooms sink beneath the surface of the boiling broth.

"Go ahead!" Kaiba urged, fully aware of Yami's hesitation, "Just ...grab whatever you want from inside the pot. I'll be refilling it as we go."

Yami swallowed thickly and nodded, picking up his chopsticks carefully, he eyed the pot as several large slices of meat floated to the surface, bobbing up and down invitingly at him.

"They're cooking too hard!" Mokuba cried, dipping his chopsticks in first, quickly raising the slices of meat out of the boiling pot, "Yami, you can't let them sit in there for too long! They cook instantly!"

Kaiba laughed as he placed more slices into the pot, making sure to push them around the rim, closer towards Yami, "And what if he prefers them to be cooked harder, Mokuba?"

"Everyone should eat them tender." Mokuba said firmly, shoving the slice into his mouth noisily.

Yami felt his ears ring slightly as Kaiba's laugh floated wonderfully around the booth, and he stared at the boiling pot, his stomach churning with uncertainty and hunger.

"Let's try that again." Kaiba said gently as a few more slices of meat floated to the surface of the pot, "Now, now! Yami...grab it!"

Yami blinked when he heard Kaiba say his name and snapped out of his stupor, quickly dipping his chopsticks into the pot, he lifted out several beautifully cooked slices of meat. He placed it onto his plate, watching the steam rising up pleasantly.

"Now dip them in either of these." Kaiba pushed two tiny plates of sauces towards him, one was light and creamy, the other was thick and watery. "Ponzu, goma." Kaiba said quickly, angling his chopsticks into the pans accordingly. "Try them both...or..do what Mokuba is doing."

Yami glanced over at Mokuba, who was readily dipping both of his meats into the sauces, mixing them together vigorously on his plate, before shoveling it into his mouth hastily.

Yami nodded and picked up his meat, carefully placing it into the light colored sauce. Kaiba was watching his every move and Yami was finding it difficult to focus on anything. He returned the slice to his plate and brought the meat up to his mouth, taking a delicate bite.

It was warm, juicy and absolutely delicious. The meat was definitely better tender, Mokuba was right. The sauce added a sweet tanginess at the end of his palate, and Yami enjoyed it immensely, smiling a little in spite of himself.

The Kaiba brothers nodded approvingly at Yami in unison.

"Yeah, it's good right?" Mokuba cried, "You should try mixing them! Seto, more lamb and pork please..!"

"You need some vegetables," Kaiba growled as he gently placed a few large helpings of carrots, potatoes, tofu, and cabbage into the pot.

Mokuba groaned but he kept his gaze eagerly fixed on Seto's chopsticks as he lowered more meat into the pot in front of Yami.

"Why does Yami get meat and I don't?" Mokuba whined, watching the meat bubble to the surface. Yami dipped his chopsticks in and snatched it up quickly, placing it onto his plate. Everything was too delicious to pass up.

"Because..." Kaiba said patiently "While you managed to eat one whole plate of meat by yourself, Yami has only managed to have once slice." Kaiba placed several more pieces of meat into the pot and pointed at the piece of cabbage floating in front of Mokuba. "Vegetables."

"Tch." Mokuba tossed his hair back with a huff and dragged a the cabbage out of the pot reluctantly. Kaiba nodded, satisfied, and he sighed contentedly.
Finally, now, he could eat.

He quickly pushed a pile of green onions and leeks into the pot and gave everything a quick stir. Kaiba lifted several large portions of meat clipped tightly together between a few leaves of cabbage and placed them onto his plate. He ate slowly, his eyes roaming over the table at Mokuba, who was energetically eating a chunk of tofu, and at Yami who was thoughtfully chewing.

The atmosphere was soft and pleasant as they ate in silence, with the occasional clink of the chopsticks hitting against the edge of the bowl whenever anyone pulled something out of the pot.

Yami was enjoying himself thoroughly. He would watch as Kaiba repeatedly filled the pot to the brim with fresh meat and vegetables, smiling gently. Yami felt oddly light; everything at the table felt so normal, it was almost as if they were dining together as...a family.

Yami swallowed nervously at the thought and almost choked on a mushroom stem. Kaiba noticed this immediately and spoke up, "You okay?" his eyes were soft around the corners.

Yami nodded, his eyes watering. He patted a napkin to his mouth and lowered his head to continue eating.

"Seto, can I have soda?" Mokuba asked suddenly, pointing at the red button beside Yami's head.

Kaiba pulled his phone out from his pocket to check the time. Realizing it was almost 9:30, he shook his head at Mokuba gently, "Water...or milk."

"Rrrhg!" Mokuba set his chopsticks down with a loud clatter, "It's only cuz we're always having dinner so late, you won't let me have a soda!"

Yami eyed the Kaiba brothers strangely. It was like he was watching a movie play out right in front of his eyes.

Kaiba set his chopsticks down with a clack!, knowing Mokuba was challenging him on purpose, expecting him to be more lenient in front of Yami, "No." he said firmly.

"I would like a soda." Yami said, managing a small smile as he reached up to press the red button beside his head.

The Kaiba brothers ignored him as they stared unblinkingly at each other from across the table.

"Yami's getting a soda." Mokuba said ostentatiously, "So I want one too."

"You are not the guest." Kaiba said simply as he picked up his chopsticks to fish out a chunk of potato from the pot.

"Please Seto!" Mokuba almost shouted, "I just want the fizzy lime flavor! It goes so well with the sour sauce!"

The waitress appeared beside the cart, bobbing her head respectfully, holding up her pen and pad, "Order?"

Yami leaned forwards, the tips of his blonde bangs almost brushing Kaiba across the face, "I would like a..fizzy lime soda, please." Yami said, and he winked playfully at Mokuba.

Mokuba's mouth dropped open and Yami felt Kaiba tense beside him.

"Yes of course. Anything else?" the waitress asked, her eyes darting around the table nervously at Kaiba and Mokuba.

"Nothing, thank you." Yami said deeply, and he leaned back onto his pillow, dipping his chopsticks into the pot to grab another bunch of long stemmed mushrooms.

The waitress left quickly and Yami could feel the silence grow thicker around the table as they continued to eat.

Yami snuck a glance beside him and noticed Kaiba was sitting very still, his slender fingers gripped the chopsticks tightly and a piece of carrot was sliding precariously off the end.

Yami looked up and saw Mokuba glancing around the room hopefully, waiting for the waitress to return. He turned away and went back to eating, guessing that Kaiba was probably angry.

Kaiba's pulse was racing a thousand beats per minute. He wasn't angry that Yami had just ordered a soda for Mokuba. He was trying to restrain himself from leaning forwards and burying his nose into Yami's hair.

The waitress appeared by their table and set a sparkling glass filled with a clear, carbonated beverage down on the table in front of Yami; a wedge of lime was placed artfully on the rim and Yami could smell the sweet tartness from the bubbles as they fizzed happily over the surface.

Mokuba looked at him expectantly, his eyes large and hopeful.

Yami picked up the glass and set it in front of Mokuba, carefully avoiding the hot flame in the middle. "All yours." Yami said, "Thank you, Mokuba."

Mokuba accepted it happily, looking slightly confused "Thank..you?"

"For pulling me out of the crowd by the doorway." Yami said, nodding.

"Oh, that." Mokuba smiled almost evilly at older brother, "See, Seto? I deserve this soda."

Kaiba placed a warm hand on Yami's leg and smiled back at Mokuba playfully, "Yeah you definitely earned that one kiddo."

Mokuba cackled triumphantly as he sipped his drink and picked his chopsticks back up once more.

Yami tensed and froze up, the heat from Kaiba's hand seared his leg and traveled all the way up through his body. So, Kaiba wasn't angry? In fact, quite the opposite.

Yami sat very still, afraid if he moved, Kaiba's hand would leave his leg.

"You sure you don't want one as well?" Kaiba asked lightly, looking deeply into Yami's dark violet eyes.

Yami felt a lump rise up in his throat as he tried to respond but his voice caught and he shook his head quickly.

Mokuba looked up from his plate, watching Yami redden slowly as Seto smiled at him. He rolled his eyes and sipped his drink; he felt like a third wheel on a half-date with Seto and Yami.

They aren't yelling at each other, which is a start, Mokuba mused, quickly spooning more meat into the pot before Seto saw him. Something good must've happened between them lately.

Yami turned away from Kaiba's heated gaze, afraid to look down at his leg where Kaiba's hand rested so casually. He chose to stare at the bubbling pot instead, but caught Mokuba's mischievous grin at him from across the table.

"Kiss already." Mokuba said carelessly, flicking the lime wedge off the rim of his drink and taking another big gulp.

Yami felt his entire being heat up as Kaiba's hand tightened around his knee. He blinked slowly at Mokuba as a rosy tinge crept over his complexion.

"Soda privileges revoked." Kaiba snapped as he lifted Mokuba's half-finished drink up over the boiling pot and placed it down in front of himself with a heavy clink.

"I was already done drinking it anyway." Mokuba shot back, absently stabbing one of his chopsticks through a chunk of tofu in the pot.

"Use your chopsticks properly." Kaiba said aggressively, unaware that he was squeezing Yami's leg tighter and tighter.

Yami winced as he felt Kaiba's slender fingers curl around his knee almost painfully, and he realized Kaiba was probably feeling just as embarrassed.

Mokuba stuck his tongue out at his older brother, knowing the more he annoyed Seto, the more he would win. Anything that would normally get him in trouble was less punishable when in Yami's company, Mokuba knew that much.

"You look like you want to go home early." Kaiba growled, his palms beginning to sweat against the leather of Yami's pants.

"Yeah, call Isono. I'm done eating." Mokuba challenged rudely, leaning back against the wall and crossing his arms.

Kaiba slipped his hand into his pocket threateningly, holding up his phone high above the table at Mokuba. "Last chance. Behave."

Yami's eyes darted frantically between Kaiba and Mokuba, his eyes wide with amusement. He had never seen Mokuba act this unruly before, but Yami guessed it was probably due to the casualness of the atmosphere. That, and he figured it was also partially his fault for ordering him the soda in the first place.

The pot at the center of the table had lowered to a low bubble, the flame was beginning to die out.

Mokuba jutted out his lower lip and pouted, "I wanna stay...to watch you and Yami K-I-S-S-I-"

Kaiba stood up suddenly and reached a long, slender arm to yank Mokuba up from his seat and pull him roughly towards the edge of the booth.

Yami felt the heat from Kaiba's hand leave his leg instantly and he shivered inadvertently at the sudden change in temperature.

"Shoes, on. Now." Kaiba said through gritted teeth. He knew Mokuba was playing him, and he couldn't appreciate it more.

Mokuba threw him a sly grin as he quietly obliged, bending down to tap his shoes on firmly. Kaiba also slipped his shoes on and quickly nodded at Yami, "I'll be right..back." He said as he glared down at Mokuba who beamed up at him brightly.

Yami watched as Kaiba dragged Mokuba out through the restaurant firmly by the arm, and he tried to restrain the laugh that was tickling his throat. He glanced around the now empty booth and over at the large stack of plates which once held mountains of meat and vegetables.

Yami couldn't help but feel oddly warm inside. The evening was actually turning out to be very pleasant, despite Mokuba's strange behavior.

The waitress stopped by again and looked around, confused.

Yami quickly bowed his head down politely at her and said hastily, "Kaiba will be back soon."

The waitress nodded and placed a tall menu in a neat leather sleeve on the table in front of Yami. "Wine and dessert?" she asked, and she gestured towards the low bubbling pot, "Finished?"

Yami glanced over at the pot and shook his head, recalling that Kaiba actually hadn't eaten very much because he had been so busy placing the food into the pot for everyone else.

The waitress nodded and pointed at the half-empty soda glass sitting in front of Kaiba's spot on the table, "Re-fill?" she asked, clearly trying to service the table in some way.

Yami shook his head politely again and smiled at her, "No, thank you."

The waitress paused as her eyes darted around the empty booth. Suddenly, her demeanor changed and she placed her pad and pen down quickly in front of Yami, "A-Autograph?"

Yami felt his blood run cold as he stared up at her hopeful face. He could technically forge Yugi's signature, after all, Yugi had taught him how, for situations like this.

"No, that won't be happening." Kaiba said coldly, suddenly appearing behind the waitress. She yelped and hiccuped in fear, tottering back slightly as Kaiba towered over her threateningly from his height.

"S-Sorry." She gasped and she ducked away, bumping her hip clumsily into the cart, causing a loud rattle which startled the guests in the neighboring booths.

Yami relaxed as he felt a wave of relief wash over him. He had never been so glad to see Kaiba, "Thank you." Yami said, hoping his voice portrayed his gratitude accurately.

Kaiba slid his shoes off and settled himself down comfortably beside Yami once again. He stared down at the pad and pen resting in front of Yami and he picked it up, twirling the pen absently in his fingers, "You're welcome." he said softly, carefully avoiding Yami's eyes.

Yami felt another large lump rise up in his throat as he heard Kaiba speak softly, reminding him suddenly, of Hiro.

Yami flushed deeply and turned back to stare at the pot in the center of the table and the metal edge gleamed brightly back at him, as if taunting him. Yami still remembered Hiro's request for Kaiba's signature from the other day, and Yami's heart began to thud loudly in his chest as he watched Kaiba's slender fingers twirl the pen absently.

Kaiba felt Yami's mood shift and he looked curiously over at Yami, setting the pad down onto the table, "What is it?" he asked, picking up his chopsticks once more to continue eating.

Yami blinked rapidly, the brightness of the metal pot burned into his eyes as he considered asking for Kaiba's signature again, for Hiro...and then Yami suddenly realized his mistake. He should've asked for it when Mokuba was still at the table! Yami gripped his knees and berated himself for his stupidity.

Kaiba noticed Yami's fingers tightening around his knees and he placed a gentle hand over Yami's much smaller one, "You can tell me." He said, setting down his chopsticks and shifting himself to face Yami.

Yami took a deep breath, trying to ignore the heat from Kaiba's hand, which was once again seeping into his own and he braced himself for the pleasant evening to go crashing downhill immediately as soon as he asked for Kaiba's autograph.

"Do you think..If it's not too much trouble..your signature. Please." Yami spoke in broken sentences, his thoughts interrupting his speech terribly.

Ah, that. Kaiba thought darkly, but he knew Hiro wouldn't be around to receive the signature from Yami, so he complied willingly.

Yami felt himself shiver again as Kaiba's warm hand left his own, and he watched with bated breath as Kaiba reached for the paper.

Kaiba picked up the pad and pen, swirling his name boldly across the page. He tore it out with a flourish and handed it to Yami, smiling in the most charming way he could manage.

Yami's heart skipped a beat as Kaiba signed the pad without a comment, and handed the slip to him with a sweet, boyish smile. Yami wondered faintly if this was really Seto Kaiba who was sitting beside him, and not a strange doppelganger. Kaiba usually always asked for something in return, but this time was different. Why? Perhaps his presence at this dinner was an acceptable replacement for the kiss he had asked for earlier?

Kaiba watched as Yami seemed to struggle with himself before carefully lifting the slip out from between his slender fingers and folding it into his lap quietly.

Have fun finding Hiro and giving that to him, Kaiba thought savagely as he picked his chopsticks up once more, lifting the last pieces of meat and vegetables out from the pot. Unsurprisingly though, he had lost his appetite.

Kaiba caught the waitress peeking towards their booth skittishly, and he waved her over. She blushed and bobbed her head, scurrying over to their table quickly.

"Check please." Kaiba said slowly, pointedly staring right through her.

She nodded silently and hurried away.

Yami ran his fingers over the thin slip of paper, feeling slightly electrified. For some reason, he couldn't find it in himself to let got of it. Now that he had it, Yami didn't feel like giving it to Hiro. Yami slowly slid it into the pocket of his hoodie and lowered his hands back down into his lap.

"Thank you." Yami said silently, unsure if Kaiba had heard him.

Kaiba nodded absently and he ran a tired hand through his hair, ruffling his bangs up from off his forehead, suddenly regretting sending Mokuba home alone.

Yami couldn't tear his eyes away from Kaiba's face as he watched Kaiba flip his hair back tiredly, briefly exposing his sloping brow. Yami's vision began to shift slightly as he began to wonder if he was dreaming. Kaiba definitely looked a lot more like Hiro in that moment than he ever did previously.

Kaiba was very aware of Yami staring at him and drummed his fingers on the table nervously, waiting for the waitress to return with their tab.

Yami palmed his phone unconsciously, Anzu's words echoing around in his head..."You don't owe him anything...yet .." And Yami felt himself relax. That meant he didn't have to feel bad about enjoying himself here tonight with Kaiba...

The waitress returned with the tab and Kaiba quickly slid a credit card over onto the tray. She bowed deeply again and rushed away, almost bumping into her co-worker who was craning her neck, trying to catch a peek into their booth.

Kaiba glanced carefully over at Yami, noticing that Yami was tightly gripping his phone in his pocket. He could see the outlines of Yami's knuckles against the leather of his pants, and Kaiba felt a twinge of annoyance.

Yami was probably waiting for Hiro to text him, Kaiba thought spitefully as he leaned back and scooted himself even closer to Yami. There could be a way to remedy that...

Kaiba turned to smile softly at Yami, "Waiting for a call?" he asked slyly as Yami's eyes widened at him in surprise.

Yami slowly withdrew his hand out from his pocket, cursing internally at himself, "No." he said quickly, feeling the blood rush to his head as Kaiba leaned in closer to him. Kaiba was sharp, as usual.

Kaiba reached his hand slowly into his own pocket and slid out his phone. He placed it onto the table in front of Yami, waving at it casually, "Well, since we've got nothing else better to do while we wait for the waitress to return, go ahead and put your number in my phone."

Kaiba turned his gaze outwards towards the restaurant, searching for their waitress, secretly glad that she was taking a while to return.

Yami swallowed nervously and stared intently at the phone as the chrome buttons gleamed back at him underneath the lights. This could either be a good thing...or a bad thing.

Kaiba leaned back and folded his arms across his chest. He could practically feel Yami's mind racing as he spoke. "Go on." Kaiba urged, his heart pounding loudly in his ears, "How else am I going to know when you decide to show up? You're always dropping by unannounced at 3 AM. A warning would be nice."

Yami felt himself blush and he nodded stiffly, reaching for the phone. He picked it up carefully, noting that it was still warm from being inside Kaiba's pocket. He felt himself heat up even more as he realized the phone was locked. Yami turned towards Kaiba, and held the phone out to him, embarrassed, "Your...password, Kaiba?"

Kaiba wasn't looking at him. He was staring out at the busy restaurant, looking as if he was waiting for the girl to return with their tab.

"Five..." Kaiba said slowly, not trusting himself to look Yami in the eye. It was too dangerous. "Eight...one..."

Kaiba continued to list the numbers out loud, not turning around to see if Yami was tapping in the numbers-he wasn't sure if he could take it.

Yami froze. Was Kaiba giving him his password?!

Yami held his breath and quickly committed the numbers to memory as he typed them in with a trembling finger. To his immense excitement, the phone unlocked and a familiar set of icons appeared on the screen. What caught Yami's eye, however, was the screen background. It was Mokuba, or rather, Mokuba's legs, sticking upwards at an awkward angle from over the edge of a white sofa, the rest of his body obscured by the back of the couch.

Yami laughed, deeply amused, "What is this?"

"Oh that.." Kaiba said, trying to keep his voice steady, "That was Mokuba trying to do a handstand. He asked me to take a photo of him as proof he could do one. Obviously...he can't."

Kaiba turned to smile at Yami; it was getting easier and easier to be himself now that he had heard Yami laugh.

Yami felt his spirits soar when he saw Kaiba smile at him, and he looked away quickly, keeping his gaze fixed on the phone but not really seeing anything on the screen. "I'll...add myself here.." Yami murmured, tapping on the address book icon and he quickly entered his information.

The waitress chose this moment to return and Kaiba quickly grabbed his credit card off the tray with practiced fingers, and he nodded silently at her in thanks. She wavered at the edge of the table, her eyes constantly drifting over his head to stare at Yami, who was busying himself with the phone.

Oh stop staring at him, Kaiba fumed privately, and he shot her a glare, knowing she probably still wanted to try asking for "Yugi's" autograph.

"Thank you...Kaiba." Yami said, his voice faltering as he looked up and caught the waitress's gaze.

"Your phone." Yami mumbled and he slid the phone back across the table towards Kaiba, who was glaring menacingly at the waitress.

"Thank you. You may leave now." Kaiba enunciated, trying to control his temper. Could this bitch stop staring and just leave?

The waitress bravely held out her pen and pad towards him, "I was wondering if perhaps, I could have your autograph Mr. Kaiba. Th-They won't let me keep the receipt you signed."

"No." Kaiba said firmly, slipping his phone back into his pocket as he turned towards Yami, "Let's go."

Yami nodded, feeling slightly lightheaded as he watched the waitress flush with embarrassment as she turned to leave.

Kaiba stood smoothly and slipped his shoes on, watching as Yami followed suit with his head ducked down, blonde bangs obscuring his eyes, making him unreadable.

Yami's mind was racing as his shoe rubbed painfully against the back of his heel as he shoved his foot down with force. He watched Kaiba turn and walk towards the doorway, and Yami hurried to catch up, his heart thudding loudly in his ears.

They exited the restaurant without any further hassle from the staff and Yami was thankful to see that it was relatively empty outside, the crowd had vanished and the plaza seemed deserted. He walked a few paces behind Kaiba, watching the heels of Kaiba's shoes touch the pavement and lift up again as he stepped forwards.

Kaiba shoved his hands in his pockets as he walked resolutely forwards, slowing his pace as he waited for Yami to catch up, irritated because he seemed to be dragging behind on purpose.

Kaiba decided to pause at the top of the stairs and suddenly, he felt Yami bump into his back slightly.

He's not paying attention, Kaiba realized and he turned around to quickly grab Yami by the hand.

Yami felt Kaiba's cool, slender fingers slip gently through his and lead him slowly down the stairs.

Kaiba felt Yami tense but he kept pulling forwards, keeping his gaze fixed firmly ahead, hoping and praying that Yami wouldn't pull away.

Yami blinked and blinked, his heart pounding painfully in his chest as they walked through the plaza, hand in hand. Every step he took felt light and airy, it was as though he was walking on an endless cloud.

He kept looking down at their hands, the tips of Kaiba's beautifully manicured fingers shone back at him and Yami felt himself grow lightheaded.

Everything felt surreal. The lights in the trees seemed to glow back brighter at him than before and several people turned their heads to stare, but Yami ignored them. Where were they going? It didn't matter. Nothing mattered except for the warmth of Kaiba's hand seeping into his. Yami couldn't believe Kaiba was touching him so casually.

Their pace slowed and Yami realized they had stopped walking. He tore his gaze away from their hands and glanced up. They had arrived in front of a quaint storefront with a low hanging door frame, tucked away at the end of the building.

Yami couldn't help but smile when he noticed the top of Kaiba's head just barely brushed the top edge of the door frame as he ducked down to step through the entrance. Yami followed, still enjoying the feeling of their fingers interlaced.

A light, sweet smell drifted past his nose and Yami turned his head to follow the scent, intrigued. He looked around the store, taking in the rows and rows of shelves set up neatly around them. A convenience store? Yami thought faintly as Kaiba led him around the store slowly. The aisles were narrow, causing Kaiba to stay a few steps ahead of him.

Kaiba's gaze swept calculatingly around the shop, trying to locate the source of the sweet smell. He had seen the lovey-dovey couple on the bench enjoying a soft serve earlier, he could've sworn this was where they had gotten it from. His ears were ringing so loudly with excitement causing everything to sound tinny. He was holding Yami's hand successfully and Yami didn't seem to mind. He needed to keep this up somehow.

They had already walked the length of the store and Kaiba was starting to panic. There was no soft serve machine in sight, and the store seemed to be deserted. Where was the attendant?

They approached the front counter and Kaiba leaned over it, looking for the store clerk. The sweet smell grew even stronger and he spied several large bags of freshly spun cotton candy propped up along the edge within arm's reach.

Yami stared at the tiny bell sitting on the counter and he watched as Kaiba craned his neck, searching for the store owner. "There is a bell." Yami said, nodding at the little silver dome sitting on the edge of the glass counter.

Kaiba smiled and nodded softly at Yami, reaching out to tap his finger quickly over the ringer. The sharp clang rang out through the store, and Kaiba gripped Yami's hand tightly in anticipation. No one came.

Yami shifted uncertainly, feeling Kaiba squeeze his hand, "Is there something you wanted to get?"

Kaiba stepped back and bent down, almost pressing his cheek against Yami's as he pointed behind the counter, "Look."

Yami's breath caught in his throat as Kaiba's hair tickled his ear. He followed Kaiba's finger, his eyes landing on several large clouds of white cotton candy, sitting individually propped up on a tray in their pointed cones.

"Oh.." Yami breathed, his heart fluttering wildly as he realized he wanted one, badly. Yami briefly recalled the last time he had spun sugar, and it was almost a year ago, on fair grounds. Strangely enough, Yami mused privately, if he remembered correctly, they were at Kaiba Land...

"Want one?" Kaiba asked, his blue eyes gleaming excitedly as he flashed a dazzling smile.

Yami nodded faintly, slightly love-struck. Had Kaiba always been this expressive or was he only noticing this now?

Kaiba smiled lightly again, secretly glad the store attendant was absent. He slipped his free hand into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet. Kaiba flipped it open and leaned it towards Yami, a few crisp bills peeked out over the edge, pressed against the folds of the leather.

Yami stifled a gasp, narrowing his eyes at Kaiba, wondering what had gotten into him.

"We're going to pay. How much do you think we should leave?" Kaiba asked earnestly, unaware of Yami's distress.

Yami's voice caught in his throat as he tried to respond, "500* yen, perhaps?"

"Okay," Kaiba frowned slightly, "Well I don't carry change, so I guess we'll be leaving 2,000* yen. Would you mind grabbing it?"

Kaiba swept his thumb gently over the back of Yami's hand and gave him a reassuring squeeze, not wanting to let go. He would rather have Yami reach inside his wallet than let go of his hand.

Yami nodded, feeling slightly dizzy, he pinched the corner of the bill nearest to him and slid it out with a shaking hand, watching as Kaiba shuffled the wallet back into his back pocket.

Kaiba reached over and lifted the bell, "Why don't we place it under here?"

Yami nodded again and complied, his heart skipping a few beats as Kaiba's thumb warmly caressed the back of his hand.

Kaiba leaned over the counter and picked up the largest, fluffiest one and handed one to Yami.

Yami slowly accepted the cone from Kaiba, staring at the large clouds of spun sugar hovering dangerously close to his nose. He blinked nervously, "Are you sure..?"

Suddenly, the quiet squeaking of door hinges sounded behind them and Kaiba gripped Yami's hand tightly and whispered, "Quick, let's go!"

Yami heart was pounding so loudly, it hurt. He nodded, curling his fingers into Kaiba's grasp in response and they rushed out the door, just as they heard the storekeeper let out a surprised yell behind them.

The cool night air rushed through Yami's hair pleasantly and he felt a laugh bubbling up in his chest as gripped the paper cone tightly. He looked up at Kaiba, who smiled handsomely back down at him, his light brown hair was ruffled messily by the wind.

Yami felt a wonderful fluttering rise up inside him and he burst out laughing. He gripped Kaiba's hand gleefully, turning his head to look over his shoulder at the shop keeper who was standing dumbstruck, at the entryway of his shop, clutching the 2,000 yen note.

"I think ...he wanted to give you your...change." Yami said, barely able to speak though peals of laughter.

Kaiba felt his mouth grow dry as Yami's laughter rang pleasantly through the air, causing goosebumps to run up and down his arms. He shivered and managed another small smile, "Well, he can keep it."

Yami smiled happily at the cone in his hand, turning the cotton candy around, inspecting it from every angle. He could see the lights from the trees sparkling through the layers of the sugar, and he held it up higher, exhilarated.
Dare he feel this happy?

Kaiba felt his breath catch as he watched Yami twirl the cotton candy playfully, watching the lights pass through the threads of spun sugar. He felt like crying and laughing at the same time, seeing how much Yami was enjoying himself. He squeezed Yami's hand warmly, delighted.

"What you're holding," Kaiba said, biting back a laugh, "Is probably the most expensive cotton candy in all of Domino."

Yami laughed again and smiled mischievously back at Kaiba, "Well, let's hope it tastes good then."

"Yes." Kaiba said simply. His chest grew tight at the sound of Yami's laughter once again and he felt as though he was about to explode with euphoria.

Yami leaned forward and buried his nose in the sugar cloud, inhaling it's wonderfully sweet scent. He couldn't find the words to describe his happiness. After having a pleasant dinner together, they were now laughing and joking around like old friends. Was he dreaming?

"Let's take a seat, over here." Kaiba said gently, leading Yami over towards the benches by the fountain in the center of the plaza.

Yami obliged and sat himself down happily, glancing around them with great interest. He had seen the couple sitting on this bench earlier...had Kaiba noticed him watching them?

Kaiba settled himself snugly beside Yami, their legs pushed tightly against each other as they sat quietly together on the bench. He looked over at Yami, enjoying the way the shadows fell lightly across his delicate features in the semi-darkness. His eyes traveled down to their hands, their fingers still gently intertwined. By some miracle, Yami still hadn't pushed him away.

The quiet rushing of the water echoed around the empty plaza and Yami raised his head to look up into the night sky, noticing a few silver stars sparkling from behind a few wispy clouds. He felt the corners of his vision blur slightly as his eyes heated up with emotion.

Kaiba noticed Yami's grip loosen around the paper cone, the fluffy cloud of sugar drooping precariously downwards. He nudged Yami gently with his shoulder, waiting for a response.

Yami blinked, staring at a blank spot in the sky, feeling strangely overwhelmed.

Suddenly, a hand shot across his face and a pair of slender fingers pinched a large chunk out of his cotton candy. Yami cried out, startled, "H-Hey!"

Kaiba smirked at Yami and quickly placed the puff of sugar in his mouth, feeling the sugar melt softly on his tongue.

"You weren't paying attention." Kaiba said playfully, reaching over to grab another pinch of sugar. Yami tried to yank the cone out from Kaiba's grasp, but Kaiba's arms were longer. He managed grab another large pinch of the cotton candy and he licked it triumphantly off his fingers.

Yami swallowed nervously, his eyes following Kaiba's tongue as it flicked out to lick the tips of his slender fingers briefly.

Kaiba felt Yami's eyes follow his fingers and he flashed him a boyish grin, "What? Can't share?"

Yami lowered the cone back in front of his face, slightly disgruntled, "I'll let you have...some."

"You will let me have some?" Kaiba echoed gleefully as he squeezed Yami's hand gently, "Shouldn't it be the other way around? I will let you have some. Give that to me." He abruptly let go of Yami's hand and snatched the cone out of his grasp, leaning back into the bench with a devilish smile.

Yami's mouth dropped open in silent protest as the paper cone suddenly slipped out from his fingers as Kaiba grabbed it from him. Yami folded his arms across his chest, irritated. He hadn't managed to have any yet and Kaiba was already acting selfish as usual.

"Kaiba...!" Yami cried, trying to keep the dismay from creeping into his voice.

"I'll let you have some...relax!" Kaiba said, dipping his fingers into the puffy cloud of sugar and pulling back a few soft threads.

Yami's gaze followed the trail of sugar, his mouth watering. He knew Kaiba was teasing him but he didn't care, he really wanted some.

Kaiba held the small puff of spun sugar invitingly in front of Yami's nose, "Here."

Yami narrowed his eyes suspiciously at Kaiba wondering why did Kaiba kept insisting on feeding him things. Was this some sort of power-play?

"Come on," Kaiba wiggled his finger playfully, the trail of cotton candy floated on his finger enticingly.

Yami's frown deepened as he contemplated his options. Kaiba was smiling at him in the most charmingly devious manner, Yami couldn't help himself. He felt his hand move on its own as he grabbed Kaiba's hand firmly, holding it in place. Then, he dipped his head down over Kaiba's finger, quickly biting the puff of cotton candy off the tip of his slender finger.

Kaiba held his breath as he felt Yami's teeth graze the pad of his finger, and he smirked triumphantly, pulling his hand back to grab another large pinch off the cone, holding it out on the tips of his fingers again, for Yami.

Yami blinked as Kaiba pulled another large wad of sugar off the cone and held it out to him, his heart thumping wildly in his chest. He didn't give himself time to think. He grabbed Kaiba's hand again and placed his finger in his mouth, feeling the sugar melt warmly on his tongue. Yami slid his tongue gently along the underside of Kaiba's finger, licking it clean. He watched as Kaiba's cheeks darkened slightly underneath the plaza lights. Was he ...blushing? Yami smiled in spite of himself as he pulled Kaiba's hand away from his mouth.

"Another." Yami said, smirking, watching Kaiba nod slowly, clearly flustered.

Kaiba pulled another puff of sugar from the quickly shrinking cloud of cotton candy and held it out to Yami, his arms and legs shaking. He watched as Yami smiled lightly while licking the candy slowly off his finger, his dark violet eyes sparkling mischievously under the night lights.

He could feel the heat from Yami's mouth melting him faster than the sugar on his finger, causing his heart to pound loudly in his ears. Kaiba felt Yami's tongue swirl gently around the tip of his finger and his stomach swooped suddenly down to the floor. The warmth from Yami's hands touching his, traveled up his arm and slowly crept across his face, burning his cheeks.

"Another." Yami said playfully, releasing Kaiba's hand, feeling a laugh bubble in his chest as he watched Kaiba flush deeply. He was enjoying himself immensely. Kaiba's reactions were both amusing and arousing.

Kaiba withdrew his finger which was still wet with Yami's saliva and he threw Yami a devilish smirk before placing his finger in his mouth. He could taste Yami on the tip of his finger, Kaiba watched as Yami's eyes widened considerably.

Yami felt his mouth go dry as Kaiba stared deeply into his eyes while he gently placed his gleaming wet finger back into his own mouth. Yami felt his face heat up and there was a strange ringing in his ears as his breath quickened.

Kaiba lifted his finger out of his mouth to twirl the piece of the cotton candy off the paper cone and he held it out to Yami.

Yami couldn't bring himself wait for Kaiba's hand to stop in front of his face. He reached over and grabbed Kaiba by the wrist and forcefully yanked his hand towards him, eagerly wrapping his mouth around the tip of Kaiba's candy coated finger.

The sweetness was almost too much for him to bear. Yami felt himself tremble with excitement as he pressed his thumbs into the palm of Kaiba's hand, swirling his tongue delicately over the tip of Kaiba's finger, feeling his nail graze across his tongue slightly. Yami swallowed his sweet, sticky saliva from the cotton candy, wishing he could taste Kaiba instead.

Kaiba tensed as Yami's tongue rolled beneath his finger seductively and it took all of his self control not to thrust his finger into Yami's mouth.

Even though the cotton candy was all gone, Yami kept Kaiba's finger in his mouth, purposely shoving his tongue vigorously over and over along the slender digit.

Kaiba swallowed nervously, unsure if he ought to pull his hand away. His heart was thudding so loudly in his chest, it hurt to breathe, it hurt to think.

Yami's mind was humming pleasantly as he continued to suck lightly on Kaiba's finger, catching the look of pure shock on Kaiba's face. He felt a bubble of satisfaction rise up inside him and he bit down lightly on the edge of Kaiba's knuckle. He felt Kaiba's hand tremble slightly and he smirked. Yami pulled Kaiba's finger out of his mouth and pressed his nose against the center of Kaiba's palm, inhaling the lingering scent from the cotton candy.

Kaiba felt Yami's hot breath pan across his palm and he repressed a shudder, feeling goosebumps raise up his arm as Yami pressed his nose further into his hand.

He opened his mouth to speak but a strange, strangled cry escaped his throat as Yami's tongue suddenly thrust between the gap of his fingers.

Yami smirked as he licked his way up Kaiba's hand, purposely pressing his tongue in and out between the gaps of Kaiba's slender fingers.

Kaiba felt himself grow incredibly hot and aroused at the sight of Yami carefully licking and kissing his way up his hand. His other hand gripped the paper cone so tightly his knuckles began to hurt. Yami looked so lustful and alluring, it was becoming difficult for him to hold back.

Yami felt Kaiba's fingers beginning to curl slowly, so he leaned his head back and smiled flirtatiously at Kaiba, "I'll stop." He said, carefully lowering Kaiba's hand.

Kaiba watched as Yami's lips curled up into a tiny smile and a monstrous wave of need rose up inside him. He lifted his hand up to cup Yami's face gently, sweeping his thumb over Yami's soft cheeks. Kaiba could feel Yami holding his breath and he wondered faintly if it would be okay to kiss him...only one way to find out.

He slid his thumb downwards to Yami's chin and leaned in, his nose barely brushed across Yami's before Yami jerked back suddenly and scrambled frantically on his feet.

Yami stood breathlessly at the edge of the bench, his face red and flushed with embarrassment with his fists clenched tightly at his sides. "I got carried away." He said shakily, watching Kaiba's hand hovering in midair where his face was, just seconds ago.

Kaiba felt himself grow increasingly more frustrated as he lowered his hand back down onto his lap, willing himself to stay composed. This was going to take some patience on his part.

He stood smoothly and forced himself to relax. If he wanted the evening to end pleasantly with Yami, he would have to tread carefully from here on out.

"That's fine." Kaiba responded simply and he reached his hand into his pocket for his phone, "Let's go around the corner and wait for Isono."

Yami felt his chest constrict painfully and he nodded, secretly glad that Kaiba was being so complacent.

Kaiba brushed past Yami and deposited the paper cone at a nearby trash can, feeling the sugar beginning to dry sticky on his fingers. He gestured for them to continue walking up the street, and Yami nodded silently again, trying to calm his nerves.

Kaiba carefully walked few paces in front of Yami, trying to calm his racing heart. They reached the end of the street and Kaiba quickly rounded the corner, stepping into the empty parking lot, feeling his phone hum reassuringly back at him. He glanced down at the screen and saw it was a text from Mokuba.

"I'm going to bed." was all he wrote. Kaiba shoved the phone back into his pocket and stood next to an empty parking space at the edge of the lot, watching Yami slowly approach him.

Yami stared at Kaiba's tall frame as he caught up and stood beside him, feeling strangely dizzy. He touched his face, the warmth from Kaiba's hand lingering across his cheek. He felt nervous and giddy. Yami looked up at Kaiba, enjoying the way the street lamp's warm light reflected off of his light brown hair.

"Thank you." Yami said suddenly, "For dinner..and.." he paused, trying to find the words to describe their moment on the bench with the cotton candy.

"Dessert?" Kaiba suggested, smiling slightly, glancing over Yami.

Yami felt himself flush as he nodded and turned to look towards the street, watching as a long, white limousine pulled into the lot and stop directly in front of them with it's headlights beaming harshly.

The passenger door opened and Isono got out, moving towards the back doors to open them. Kaiba waved him away, "I've got it, Isono."

Isono visibly swallowed and dipped his head respectfully, climbing back into the driver's seat without a word.

Kaiba strode forwards and pulled the door open for Yami with a flourish, "Let's get you home."

Yami felt a strange sinking in his stomach when he heard Kaiba say the word "home". He didn't want to return to the game shop...was the night over already?

Kaiba watched Yami's face fall slightly as he paused by the door and blinked. Kaiba instantly recognized this as disappointment and he corrected himself immediately, "Or...we could stop by my office...before you head home."

Yami felt a lump rise up in his throat as he nodded, ducking his head to enter the car. As he slid across the leather seats, he couldn't help but think that Kaiba somehow managed to read his mind. He watched as Kaiba folded himself gracefully into the seat beside him and pulled the door firmly shut.

"Isono, we're ready." Kaiba called, and he leaned back into the plush leather, stealing a quick glance over at Yami who was sitting very still beside him.

Yami felt the car pull forwards gently as they drove away, and he secretly wondered if Kaiba also knew he hated minding the game shop. He felt his face heat up with embarrassment, knowing he might be overstaying his welcome, considering how he was always dropping by late at night in an attempt to get out of the house.

Yami gripped his knees tightly, deciding he ought to clarify his intentions to Kaiba, "Kaiba," Yami started, "If it's getting too late, perhaps, you could drop me off at home. I know my unannounced visits inconvenience you greatly."

Kaiba glanced down again and noticed Yami's knuckles were white as he gripped his knees. What the hell was he playing at? Kaiba thought, irritated, Whatever happened to spending more time together, or had he already forgotten?

"Well, I could drop you back at the game shop," Kaiba said shrugging, carefully placing his sticky hand on his knee, trying not to touch the leather, "But you spend so much time there already, aren't you sick of being there? In fact..."

Kaiba tossed his bangs out of his eyes as he threw another charming smile over at Yami, "I think you should spend the night. Isono could easily give you a ride to school."

Yami felt his heart leap into his throat and he jerked his head up to look over at Kaiba, unable to believe his ears. Spend the night? At the Kaiba mansion?!

"I-I don't..know about that." Yami struggled, his composure slipping. He didn't have any of his things, but things could easily be acquired by Kaiba's bountiful wealth, now couldn't they? Also, would he worry Yugi?

"Call Yugi and let him know." Kaiba said blandly, examining the nails on his clean hand, watching Yami fidget out of the corner of his eye.

Yami fought with himself for a moment before reaching a shaking hand into his pocket and slipping out his phone. The car made a slight turn and Yami's shoulder knocked roughly into Kaiba's arm, and Yami pushed himself off, blushing slightly.

"Sorry." He said quickly, sliding a thumb across his screen and tapping Yugi's name in his phone.

"Don't worry about it." Kaiba said smoothly, overjoyed that Yami had accepted his offer without complaint.

Yami managed a small smile in Kaiba's direction before the phone began ringing in his ear. One ring, two rings...three rings. Yami frowned. Yugi usually picked up by the fourth or fifth ring. The phone rang all the way through to voicemail and Yugi's voice chirped in his ear, "Hi! Thanks for calling, I'll get back to you soon! Please leave-"

Yami pulled the phone away from his face, irritated. Why hadn't Yugi picked up? Was he asleep?

Kaiba saw Yami frown at his screen and he gently nudged his shoulder against Yami's, "Try the game shop."

Yami gripped his phone tightly and clicked it off, shaking his head, "No. That's fine. If Yugi didn't pick up his personal phone, he most definitely isn't at the front, not at this hour."

Kaiba nodded and turned to gaze out the window, feigning indifference, secretly glad that Yugi was unreachable.

They had stopped in front of the gate at the Kaiba mansion and Yami craned his neck to look out the window, feeling slightly agitated. Isono parked the limousine around the curve of Kaiba's expansive driveway and shut the engine off.

Kaiba quickly reached for the door and climbed out, standing off to the side, eyeing Yami's slender legs as he stepped out of the car after him.

Kaiba glanced up into the second story window, checking to see if Mokuba's window was dark. It wasn't. Kaiba inadvertently ground his teeth, annoyed that Mokuba had lied about "going to sleep". He pulled out his phone to check the time, realizing it was just past midnight and he quickly dialed Mokuba's cell phone, waving Isono away.

Yami watched with great interest as Kaiba glanced up at the house, seemingly irritated.

Mokuba picked up on the second ring, "Seto?"

"Why is your light still on?" Kaiba asked sternly, "It's past midnight."

Suddenly, the light in the second story window went dark. "I'm asleep!" Mokuba insisted.

"Right." Kaiba said, watching Yami smile in amusement. "Well you had better be asleep for real by the time I head up there, which is now."

"Okay Okay!" Mokuba cried, rustling around frantically before hanging up the phone.

Kaiba sighed and gestured for Yami to follow him into the house. Yami happily obliged, feeling every step grow lighter as they neared the large double doors.

Yami watched as Kaiba unlocked the front doors with a key-card and stepped aside, letting him pass through first. He nodded politely as he stepped inside, feeling his phone buzz inside his pocket. Yugi!

Yami fumbled for his phone and glanced at the screen quickly, his prediction confirmed, it was indeed Yugi calling him back. He slid his finger across the bottom and held the phone up to his ear, watching as Kaiba flipped the lights on around them. His breath caught in his throat as the crystal chandelier hanging above them lit the room with a warm glow.

"Yami!" Yugi exclaimed, "Sorry I missed you earlier! My phone was off during my group-study session; it ran late. Is everything okay?"

"Yes, Aibou, everything is fine." Yami said quickly, nodding even though he knew Yugi couldn't see him. Kaiba was looking at him strangely and Yami tilted his head at him silently, wondering what it was.

"Do you need a ride back from...wherever you are?" Yugi asked carefully.

Kaiba held the key-card out at Yami, waving it in front of his face, distracting him on purpose.

"I-No, I don't." Yami said stiffly, swatting Kaiba's hand away from his face. "I'm just letting you know I'll be staying over at Kaiba's tonight, so please don't worry."

Yugi felt his heart skip a beat, "I'm sorry, you're what? Where?!"

Kaiba was still waving the key-card in front of Yami's face and he grabbed it furiously, prying it from Kaiba's fingers.

"At...Kaiba's." Yami repeated through clenched teeth, holding the key-card up victoriously, glaring at Kaiba.

Kaiba smirked and turned to head up the stairs, not waiting to see if Yami would follow him.

"Wait!" Yami exclaimed, looking around him frantically. He didn't want to be left alone in such a large, unfamiliar house. Kaiba paused in the middle of the grand staircase, smiling down at Yami playfully.

"Wait...what?" Yugi asked, confused, "Are you talking to me?"

"Sleep well, Yugi, Have a good night." Yami said hastily, hanging up on him.

Kaiba turned to continue heading up the stairs, walking quickly, purposely leaving Yami behind.

"Kaiba, I said wait!" Yami said, almost tripping on one of the steps. He realized he was still holding the key-card, and he rushed forwards, trying to catch up with Kaiba, who had disappeared behind one of the doors at the end of a long hallway.

"Kaiba!" Yami cried, rushing forwards to grab the door handle. It was locked. He glanced down at the key-card in his hand and stared at the small, grey panel beside the door with a tiny dot of red light shining back at him curiously.

Yami raised the key card and tentatively tapped it on the panel. It blinked and turned green as the lock clicked open. Excited, Yami leaned his weight down on the door handle and pushed his way into the room.

---

Author's Note:

*hugs everyone* *hugs Seket*

Please let me know your thoughts in the comments!

- Next chapter preview -

Kaiba felt his heart stop in his chest when he saw Yami sitting in the center of his bed, the sheets a mess, hugging one of his pillows. His blood ran cold when he realized it was probably because he had accidentally spritzed himself with Hiro's cologne in a tired haze and then slept in the sheets...naked.