Hi Everyone! Welcome back to a new chapter of Blind Date and it's a monster one, but a lot is happening to move the story forwards. I'd like to give a big thank you to my reviewer Pharaohs Girl18and hopefully you'll like this chapter as much as the previous one.
Enjoy!
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Blind Date – Part 37
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All the good feelings were gone, vaporised or thrown out of the window. Yami wasn't sure which one it was, but he did know he was tense and could barely focus on the tasks Atemu had given him. He was glad he had the tasks to take his mind off the dread that seemed to swallow him whenever he thought about the upcoming court session between him and Marcus. How had he ever been able to forget that? Sure, he could come up with excuses, but still... It was already written down for a while, Atemu had already given him the day off, so how in his right mind could he have ever forgotten about the appointment? The tanned man would also join him to offer support, which Yami was really grateful off, though it made his shame of forgetting it even more prominent.
Sighing softly, Yami marked the misspelled word in the template he was checking for faults, before rewriting it in the document on his computer. As he stared at the screen, he wondered what would happen when he'd see Marcus again in court. He hadn't seen him for weeks, his knowledge about the trial had come from the female investigator keeping him up-to-date which hadn't happened in a while. She had said he would be asked questions when she had suddenly visited him this morning, but as long as he answered them truthfully, nothing could go wrong. Or could it?
"Yami?", was the soft call, yet the pale man nearly jolted with surprise. Crimson eyes fell upon Jack as the tall man stood beside his desk and Yami sighed softly. After Rebecca had kindly insulted him barely two days ago, all of his colleagues would occasionally ask if he was all right. One of them had even baked a cake to cheer him up and Jack was keeping a close eye on him. The latter knew he was gay, had a boyfriend... Nobody appeared to become like Marcus, but could they really accept him so easily?
"Yes?", he said at last, focusing on Jack who seemed to wait for his response and Yami watched how the black-haired man sighed softly. Grasping a chair to sit down, the tall man tilted his head ever so slightly as he continued to stare at his younger charge.
"Are you all right? You have been a little out of it and tense. Do I have to call Marie so you can talk to her?", Jack asked and Yami sighed softly as he stared at his desk. He was being obvious again and he wished he could just stop it.
"No", he answered with a soft shake of his head, before meeting Jack's worried gaze once more. "I don't need to talk to Marie, there are no problems at home and after tomorrow I'll feel better again. I promise, it's just that... something will happen tomorrow and I'm not exactly looking forward to it", were Yami's next words and Jack rose an eyebrow at his cryptic description. Nibbling his lip, Yami wondered if he should even tell Jack about the upcoming trial.
"What could be so horrendous that, after you've gone through at least a few days humming your own songs, I'm able to practically scare you while you're trying to work?", Jack asked and he watched the pale man, tried to see if he would even tell him the truth. Would Yami even be all right after tomorrow? He seemed to be all right after the whole ordeal with the blonde teenager, yet... this seemed different. This almost appeared as if it was more horrible than Jack had assumed at first.
"Tomorrow will be the trial to put the man behind bars who tried to kill me for being gay", Yami whispered and at first, Jack thought he'd heard wrong.
"He what?", was his very intelligent question and Yami nodded with a small snort.
"Before I got here, I worked at a coffee house. It was a lot of fun, until the boss broke her foot. She arranged a replacing manager, but from the moment we met, he didn't seem to like me. Whenever he saw me make coffee or help out customers, he'd become angry and ordered me to do the dishes or something else trivial. I know now that he was jealous, because I could do something he could not. Somehow, he didn't have that feeling with the women who worked at the shop, but he did with me", Yami started and as Jack leaned forward to hear the whole story, the pale man could feel how everything poured out of him. "It got worse over time, especially after he met my boyfriend. I still didn't see what was wrong at the time, just that he was a jerk, to be very honest. Right now I know he was homophobic and he took that out on me. He gave the silly chores and he made work a little horrible. After a bus-accident I had sprained my wrist and couldn't serve coffee. He said I was lying and when he found out I wasn't, he said I had done it on purpose so I didn't have to work. My boss tried to talk to him, but he thought he was allowed to treat me as such. At least, I think he did, considering he never changed. When there was an accident between a colleague and him, we had an argument because I basically told him to stop being a jerk. My boss took my side and he quit, only to come and seduce another colleague of mine. When he did... he somehow found out I would be alone at the coffee shop one evening and he took his chance. He knocked me unconscious and set the building on fire".
When Yami fell silent, Jack stared at the younger man and took a shuddering breath. "Dearest Gods", the black-haired man whispered and he took another breath to ground himself. Yami was once again tense, staring at his desk as he nibbled his lip. "No wonder you were staring at me with that look in your eyes when ms. Hawkins shared the particular information about your sexuality. I do hope you know we won't judge you. I'm not judging you", Jack offered next and crimson eyes looked up at him. A small smile curled Yami's lips slightly in great relieve.
"You don't know how much that means to me", the pale man said in return and Jack gave him a reassuring smile.
"I might have an inkling. Yet, how did you survive? What happened afterwards? I'm glad you're safe and sound, but how were you able to get out?", the older man asked, a new frown of worry upon his brow. At the small, loving smile, Jack knew something good had happened.
"My boyfriend and me would have a date that evening and he had already grown worried when I hadn't shown up yet. Truthfully, I was also lucky. I woke up as the fire started to take over the kitchen and managed to crawl out of the basement. One way or the other I was able to send a vocal text message to his phone and he received it. What I heard from other people's stories is that my boyfriend arrived at the scene and kicked the door in to save me. He carried me out of the burning building and I know he did, because I saw him for a few seconds when I woke up, before losing consciousness again. Someone had dialled 911, but I didn't wake up before I got to the hospital. Most of that time, I still don't remember. I had a concussion, stitches in the back of my head and trouble breathing. My body practically shut down after the whole ordeal", Yami explained and Jack nodded slowly.
"Understandable", was his first reply, but the pale man could see his colleague was trying to grasp the idea. He was trying to process the fact Yami could have been dead if a certain boyfriend hadn't shown up in time with the necessary bravery to get into a burning building and save a loved one. "I'm very glad you're still in one piece", Jack said next and Yami nodded.
"So am I, but the trial is tomorrow and that's why I'm a little on edge. What will they say, will they condemn him? Will there be drama because he tries to escape? Will I be all right after seeing him?", Yami questioned and Jack nodded as he could understand the pale man's thoughts. He would never want to see this murderer loose on the streets again, but one tiny mistake could mean disaster. Gently, he laid his hand upon Yami's shoulder, however, and smiled reassuringly. Yami didn't need his dark thoughts right now, but his support and he would give it gladly. This young intern had had a horrible time, but Jack was going to take care of him and that meant he would show his support as best as he could.
"...Whatever happens tomorrow, Yami, it will give this an end. This asshole will go to jail, for the rest of his life, and he will never bother you again. It will be a relieve, you'll be able forget him. It will be a breeze", Jack said in a hopeful attempt to cheer Yami up one way or the other. Turns out, it was not much of a breeze after all to the pale man. Seeing the one who had tried to kill him for the first time in weeks set Yami in a frenzied fury and on edge, because what was he planning now? Could he hurt the people in court? Was Marcus able to break free? Even the handcuffs to the oaken table were not much of a relieve to the younger man and he gently grasped Atemu's hand a little tighter. Just for comfort and support, just because he needed his lover and Yami couldn't help the tremble as he felt a sliver of fear run down his spine while they attended court.
Aside from Marcus overwhelming his mind, there was also the issue of having Atemu and Sugoroku sitting next to him in support. The air around them was tense as Yami waited for the results while both Atemu and Sugoroku were trying to pretend one of them did not exist. The older sibling was proud, however, when he saw Yugi had grown up as the glares send towards Sugoroku were enough to keep the older man silent so he wouldn't start insulting someone. It brought a new kind of relieve to know his younger brother was able to do so and inwardly, Yami smiled ever so slightly. Yet, it was a shame to have the proud feelings concerning his brother be overwhelmed by anger, fear and just his entire negative pool of emotions.
Grasping Atemu's hand a little tighter, his whole body tensed as the jury returned. Would they even consider punishing Marcus? The pale man took a shuddering breath at the knowledge all might still go down because someone thought Marcus might be right in trying to kill him. What if all of them were homophobes? What if all of them would rather see Yami dead as well? Trembling, the pale man could barely feel Atemu leaning against him slightly. Behind him, Mai bristled under her breath at the sight of her previous manager returning and Valon tried to calm her down. She was here for support as well and it was nice to know she had one of her high-heeled shoes ready to protect everyone if all would go down. She had even shown Yami in an attempt to cheer him up, but all it actually did make the latter feel more tense. What would the jury say? Would the jury indeed set Marcus behind bars in order to free Yami's mind as Jack had said would happen? Would Mai have to bash anyone's head in with the four inch heel or would everyone be able to leave the room unscathed?
"What if they set him free?", Yami asked in his sudden panic as he saw Marcus being led to the front to hear his verdict. Next to him, Atemu gently touched and squeezed his knee, leaning towards his ear slowly.
"Mon chéri, they can't. He admitted everything to receive a less severe punishment, but either way, he will never hurt you again", the tanned man gently whispered in answer and Yami could feel himself calm down at the soft baritone voice talking to him. Atemu was right and with the tanned man near, he didn't need to be afraid. His lover would protect him from whatever the world would throw at him.
Crimson eyes watched how the jury foreman walked towards the judge and handed her the slip of paper which carried the verdict. Holding his breath, he could see how Marcus and his defending team rose to hear the sentence with police officers surrounding him in case he tried something.
"Court has come to a final decision. Thank you ladies and gentlemen of the jury, your services today are greatly appreciated", the judge said as she nodded her head towards the jury. Yami squeezed Atemu's hand a little tighter as he tried to breath. "Mr. Crowley has been found guilty of first-degree premeditated attempted murder and arson by those present in court. He is sentenced to life in prison for his crimes". At those words, Yami could feel relieve wash over him and he hugged Atemu, shaking as the tension left him.
Rising from their seats when called by the bailiff, they watched the judge leave the courtroom while Marcus was led from it as well. Mai was cheering behind him, flinging her arms around Yami's neck while congratulating him. Yami laughed as he accepted her embrace, hugging Sugoroku and Yugi next whilst he accepted Valon's handshake. Marcus was found guilty, the man would never hurt someone again for the rest of his entire life. He was gone, behind bars and Yami laughed as Jack was right. He felt free and he hugged Atemu again as the others left court.
"I'm sorry for nearly breaking your hand", he whispered and Atemu chuckled softly as he rubbed Yami's back gently. Yes, it had hurt, but he didn't mind. Anything to help Yami ease his mind.
"It's over now, mon chéri. It's done", Atemu merely said in return and he smiled when Yami sighed in relieve once more. It was hard to let go of his lover, but he gently followed the pale man out the court room and down the hall to the outdoors. Mai was still cheering when they got outside, clapping Valon on his back as she complemented the judge for having the good kind of sense. Particularly the one to send the "sorry ass" to where he belonged. Yami smiled when he saw Sugoroku agree whole heartedly, before amethyst eyes looked at him and the younger sibling came over for another comforting embrace.
"It's so good to see you again, Yugi", Yami murmured and it was true. Even though he'd like to forget the whole session at court as soon as possible, he was glad his younger brother had been able to stand at his side as well. "Did you grow?", Yami asked and he frowned when he pulled away from Yugi slightly to stare at his sibling. Yugi grinned in response.
"Yeah I did. Two inches at least and I had to buy myself a whole new wardrobe, but it was well worth it", Yugi said and Yami smiled as he stared at the teen. Aside from growing up, the less chubby cheeks and a little less "pushover" look in his eyes, Yugi had also grown physically. He was becoming a young adult now and with a grin he turned to Atemu. The tanned man frowned slightly as his lover beckoned him forward, though he allowed for Yami to pull him close.
"Worth 30,000 dollars yet?", he whispered as softly as possible and he laughed to get all the leftover negative feelings out of his body while Yugi blushed a bright red. Atemu pursed his lips and seemed to think on his answer, which made the young teens ears colour a nice shade as well, before the tanned man chuckled softly. Pulling Yami against his hip, rose-red eyes shone with amusement as he teased the young sibling.
"I can't, I'm taken", was his answer and Yami smiled lovingly at his lover.
"You bet you are", the pale man replied, softly kissing the top of Atemu's hands and he watched Yugi roll his eyes.
"Yup, have fun at my expense, why not?", the teen asked, though he was long glad to see his brother smile again. To hear him laugh in honesty once more was something he had missed. Yes, he had missed plenty of things after Yami had left the Kame Game Shop. Yugi missed the occasional morning routine of chasing his older brother out of the bathroom because he was running late for school while Yami had all the time in the world, but he also missed Yami's laughter, his jokes, playing games with him, coming to him for advise or just his presence in a whole. The Kame Game Shop had felt empty even though Sugoroku had still been there. It was different though, a lot more different than Yugi had thought it would be like.
To see his older sibling again, to be able to support him and to see him smile was a good thing. He's happy, Yugi mused and the thought made him smile in return. Receiving another embrace from Yami as the latter apologised softly, Yugi patted the older man's back softly. "I'm glad you're doing well", he said and crimson eyes stared at him.
"I'm glad you're doing well too, Yugi. You have to tell me everything you don't while calling or texting me when we get home. Mai, will you come as well?", Yami asked as he turned from the teen towards the blonde woman. Purple eyes turned to him, shining with glee and excitement.
"Hun, are you crazy!? I'm in New York! I'd love to see your home, truly, honest, but I'd love to take Valon through the city. Besides, I'm too excited to even think of not visiting the Statue of Liberty. We are free from the jerk and I'm going to celebrate it!", she called out happily and Yami laughed as she hugged him tight. Valon gave him another handshake, before dragging his wife off to who knew where. Sugoroku shook his head slightly.
"To be young again", he mused, watching the blonde and her husband leave in their purple corvette, before he turned to Yami. "I'm glad this burden has fallen from your shoulders my boy", were his next words and the pale man nodded with a new smile curling his lips.
"So am I, gramps. He's gone, the best thing ever. Now come, I made lasagne this morning as well as bread rolls, a fresh salad, chocolate-chip cookies and dessert. All of it needs to be eaten", Yami said as he linked his arm with Atemu's gently. Yugi rose his eyebrows, though he didn't comment. It was well-known in the Muto family that Yami cooked or baked whenever he felt like it to relieve stress and right now, there had been a lot of stress. Even if Yami didn't want to show it, Yugi knew it had been there. Deep down, the teen wondered how Atemu had survived the whole ordeal, before he decided he didn't want to know.
"All of us?", Sugoroku asked softly and Yugi could feel his insides freeze over. Yami merely stared at the elder and sighed softly.
"Unless you're not hungry gramps, but please? I'd love to show you where I live right now. You already refused the offer to have Charles drive you from my home to the courthouse even though it would have made things a lot easier. It's just dinner gramps and yes, Atemu will join us at my table. I could even invite Charles inside because there is plenty", Yami answered and purple eyes looked at him for a moment longer, before the elder consented.
"I'd love to see your home, Yami", Sugoroku said and he smiled, because he would really like to see where his grandson lived. He was curious to find out what kind of home it had become. What had his grandson chosen to serve as his furniture? Was it a lovely home? How was he able to afford one in the middle of New York? Was the tanned man paying Yami for it? What was so great about this city which made Yami abandon his family so?
The thoughts lingered as the elder followed the expensive black car through the city, which was luckily one straight road down and he could even glance at Sennen Corporation as they had to wait for a traffic light, before turning right and had to listen to Yugi awe at the sight of Central Park so close by. Yet, all he saw were brick buildings and traffic lights as well as people swarming the streets. At least his grandson was safe, Sugoroku mused when he saw the sturdy doorman at the apartment building. Truth be told, he was impressed by the lovely apartment and he followed Yami through his home after shedding his shoes. The pale man gave a few quick orders to Atemu about setting the oven, before showing the elder the foyer and livingroom. Purple eyes looked at the photos inside the bookcase and he smiled when both him and Yugi were there. On another shelf was one from Atemu surrounded by Lori Parakeets and then one of his grandson with the tanned man. Their foreheads were touching and Yami was smiling happily, which made Sugoroku sigh ever so softly. He just couldn't understand...
The kitchen, as well as both the bedroom and bathroom were lovely, though Sugoroku had to admit, his favourite piece of the house was the enclosed balcony. He could see it was used well, with the pillows dented, a few books scattered on the side table as well as different handwritten notes. When Yami's phone buzzed softly, the pale man excused himself for a moment to reply to both Ryou and Malik after texting them the result of the trial and Sugoroku was left to himself for a small moment. The apartment was truly beautiful and the elder was glad he had been able to see it. At last he could form a decent plan if the need to kidnap his grandson would be in order, considering he now knew where the wooden ladle was in case of emergencies.
Walking back into the livingroom, he watched how Atemu and Yugi were setting up the table, the latter laughing as he told the tanned man of the time Yami had to wait for the results to his exams. Sugoroku remembered that time, as they had nearly been buried underneath different cakes and cookies, before sending Yami off to work at the coffee shop in order to get rid of him. Mai had not been very pleased, considering she had been the next victim of Yami's nerves.
"Basically you're telling me this is nothing", Atemu commented with a raised eyebrow as he pointed at the lasagne heating in the oven and the five cookie-jars filled to the brim. Yugi grinned with a slight devilish glint in his amethyst eyes.
"This is absolutely nothing", Yugi warned and the tanned man took a deep breath.
"What is nothing?", Yami asked, his baritone voice drifting into the kitchen as he returned from his phone call, but he received three stares of innocence at his question and he mildly glared at all three men, before shooing both Yugi and Atemu out of his kitchen. Sitting everyone down and providing them with drinks, he could feel the tension rising as both his grandfather and Atemu had to share a table. It hurt the pale man to see both of them like that and he couldn't understand why Sugoroku was still against everything. Was he truly believing Atemu would give him so much pain while all he brought were happy feelings? It even showed through his lover's mask how much he was bothered by the glances his grandfather was sending him and after serving dinner, Yami purposely sat himself between them in case they would start to grab for cutlery. Yugi was pinching the bridge of his nose slightly, though Yami wasn't sure how much the other two occupants noticed.
"Até, is this enough?", he asked softly after filling the tanned man's plate and rose-red eyes turned to him with his lover nodding slightly.
"It's more than enough, mon chéri", he whispered and Yami glanced at Yugi when he saw amethyst eyes harden when they moved to Sugoroku. The elder picked at his food as he ignored his younger grandson, muttering under his breath softly about Atemu "talking too smoothly".
"Don't you dare to this to me gramps, you promised", Yugi hissed softly, looking embarrassed and he was. He was looking after a seventy-two-year old with nothing but social skill problems as well as issues with his manners. Purple eyes turned to him and Sugoroku took a deep breath in an attempt to calm down, because he had to remind himself his grandson shouldn't be tasked with keeping him in line.
"Yes, you're right, Yugi. I'm sorry, Atemu", Sugoroku murmured and rose-red eyes lightened softly while the tanned man inclined his head in answer. Turning to his eldest grandson next, the elder smiled. "The meal is lovely, I do miss you cooking at the Kame Game Shop". Yami smiled slightly and nodded towards Yugi.
"My brother will probably succeed one day in boiling an egg", he teased and Yugi glared at him next. The older sibling chuckled softly, especially when amethyst eyes turned to Atemu who quickly wrinkled his nose and took a bite to hide his mirth. Sugoroku chuckled softly as well, taking another bite from the delicious lasagne. He knew he should enjoy this time a little more, he knew he should just ignore the tanned man and he knew he should just be happy. But he couldn't... He missed his grandson, he missed his laughter, his mannerism, him getting Yugi out of bed in the morning, his cooking... everything really. The other man had taken that from him and Sugoroku knew he shouldn't see it that way, but he did. Because of the tanned man, he had to miss his grandson.
Finishing dinner, Sugoroku sighed softly as he watched Atemu get up and help his grandson with the dishes. It was aggravating to see the tanned man be polite and nice while he tried to be helpful and Sugoroku wrinkled his nose when he heard the French nickname again. At least, it sounded French, but it was infuriating. What happened to 'darling'? What was so wrong about that? When his grandson returned with desserts, Yugi rubbed his hands at the sight of chocolate covered strawberries, brownies and chocolate hazelnut cheese cream puffs.
"Dig in", Yami commented, ignoring Atemu's stare as he knew the latter had tried to make him eat throughout the whole day but he hadn't been able to most of the time. A small piece of toast in the morning, a strawberry to taste if they were sweet enough and some chocolate as it melted in the pan. It had resulted in him eating dinner with much more flavour than usual after nearly starving himself with nerves. Though, eating again was a good thing. Right?
"Ah, Yami, when we are finished. May I speak with you in private?", Sugoroku asked suddenly as he picked out one of the puffs. Yami looked at the elder, his own tension rising again as he remembered Sugoroku's last phone call all to clearly and he was not in the mood for a repeat of that disaster.
"Gramps, it's just Yugi and Atemu. Nothing you wish to say can't be said in front of them", the pale man countered and he held his breath as he saw the elder struggle with his reply. Unless it's about me having sex with Atemu... again. That is something Yugi doesn't need to hear, no need to traumatise him, Yami mused in silence as he watched Sugoroku carefully.
"Rebecca called", were the elders first words and Yugi nearly choked in a strawberry.
"Say what?", the teen uttered with a cough, staring at his grandfather with disbelieve. "Why would she call? She's left us alone for at least two years and she finally stopped her sort-of stalking me. What did she want? What was her demand, because this time I won't forfeit any kind of duel!", Yugi said fiercely as he beat his fist down upon the dining table.
For a moment, Atemu looked at the teen, before he looked at Yami. Two different people, yet the same kind of angry emotions. Seeing that, made him glad he had fired the sorry excuse of a teenager. She may have been a genius, but to him it seemed she still had a lot to learn. Yet, Sugoroku was calm as he listened to his younger grandson rage, before Yami took a deep breath. "She's probably up to no good, gramps. Did she say how Arthur was?", his lover asked softly and the tanned man smiled. Yami might hate the girl, but he was still fond of her grandfather. It was one of the traits Atemu loved so well, to see good in the family of other people.
Sugoroku pursed his lips slightly. "Arthur is doing well, he has been teaching teens at his local museum about archaeology and history so they have help in choosing their future profession. But, she didn't call about that, actually", the elder said and Yami looked at him, his dessert untouched. "She called last Wednesday to say you had gotten her fired". Yugi rose an eyebrow while Atemu took a deep breath as he had a feeling where this was going and he was not going to like it, was he?
"Fired? Yami got her fired? That's insane!", Yugi interfered as he waved at Yami. "Yami only gets people fired if they really step out of line. Rebecca is foolish and socially disconnected, but she got herself fired if she had to go", were the teens next words and he saw how Yami's eyes darkened. Sugoroku was heading towards a place Yami didn't want to go and Yugi sighed as he looked at his grandfather. "Please gramps, whatever Rebecca told you, it's a lie", the younger sibling tried, but there was a fierce glance in Sugoroku's eyes and slowly, Yugi closed his eyes because he had failed his brother.
"Really? A lie?", Sugoroku asked and Yami set his jaw.
"Probably. What did she cry about to you? That I yelled at her?", the pale man asked, daring his grandfather to spill the words on his lips. If he knew when to keep quiet, if he really knew Yami, the elder wouldn't say anything. Sugoroku would speak about how foolish Rebecca was and that all of this was a joke to rile them up. He didn't, and that hurt.
"She accused you of sleeping with the boss to manipulate a situation-", Sugoroku started, yet he was interrupted by Atemu bristling. Rose-red eyes were set aflame with the same anger he had shown Rebecca a few days ago and Yugi shuddered slightly as he witnessed the change. Sugoroku did the same, though he took a deep breath as well to stand up to Atemu.
"You do realise you are essentially defending someone who tormented your grandson? Someone I personally heard accusing Yami of some pretty terrible things before I fired her?", the tanned man growled and his glare intensified as he was reminded of the scene which happened merely a few days ago. A scene which should have never transpired had he noticed sooner. Yami rose up from his seat, his crimson eyes dark and cold as he glanced at Sugoroku.
"That's a lie and you know it", he hissed, but as Sugoroku parted his lips, Yugi beat his fist against the table again.
"Gramps! You promised you wouldn't do this me! You promised you wouldn't bring up Yami's personal life with Atemu! This has gone on long enough! I rather listen to Yami having sex than to you any longer!", the teen brought out as he glared at Sugoroku as well. The elder bristled as he got up from his seat as well.
"You better not be having sex with that man!", he argued in return, ignoring Yugi completely.
"Not this again! When I want sex with Atemu I'll have it! That's not for you to say, it's my body and it's my life and it's my relationship! It's not as if you left grandma alone now did you?", Yami accused back and the elder stuttered.
"Leave your grandmother out of this!", he countered and Yami bristled.
"No! Because you keep trying to butt into my relationship with Atemu! Rebecca is a lying bitch and you know she is, but you keep pulling on every straw you can find to turn everything upside down! Why can't you just be supportive!? Why can't you see I'm happy and that Atemu is not hurting me?", the pale man argued in his defence.
"Watch your mouth and leave the girl out of it!", Sugoroku yelled back.
"You brought her into the conversation! You shouldn't have said anything about what she said!", Yami immediately yelled back.
"Because she said you were having sex to keep your job!"
"Atemu is my lover and when I want sex with him that's my choice! Not hers, not yours, but mine! I would never take advantage of Atemu like that just because he's with me! He's my boss and my lover, gramps!" He was desperate now, why would his grandfather not see it his way? Why would his grandfather not believe him?
"But you are suddenly very eager, aren't you? Spreading-",
"That's enough!", Atemu barked, finally raising up from his seat and he growled softly. "I realise you are coming from a place of concern, but you are treading dangerously close to saying something you won't be able to come back from", the tanned man warned, feeling his heart shatter when he saw Yami tremble and fist his hands, before he left the table. In the distance they could hear a door slamming shut from somewhere near the bedroom and the air around the three men grew silent after that.
Yugi broke the silence by taking a shuddering breath and rubbing his face with his hands. He had listened to the argument, had tried to intervene, but couldn't. Both his grandfather and brother had been so heated, they wouldn't have heard what he had tried to say. He was thankful for Atemu's authority however, it had clearly gotten through to Sugoroku as the elder sank down upon his chair. As the teen sat down again as well, he watched how Atemu took a calming breath and sighed.
"Once before I told you I would not allow for you to disrespect Yami, yet once again you have. Your will to fight our relationship is disgusting and I have tolerated your anger long enough. Yami sincerely loves you and respects your opinion, but you will go no further. I will go in there and try to make him willing to speak with you again. When you see him, I demand you apologise to my lover for your insulting behaviour, mr. Muto", Atemu hissed softly, before he left the dining table as well. Perhaps he couldn't demand anything from the elder, but he would definitely try to do so this time. His lover deserved nothing but that. Taking a calming breath to let the fury drain from him, he could hear nothing and slowly, he looked around the edge of the arch leading towards the bedroom.
"Mon chéri?", Atemu asked softly as he walked through the opening in the wall to find the pale man. He wondered which door his lover had slammed shut, though he had an inkling it was the one leading to the second toilet, considering that was the only door in the near vicinity. Yami was seated upon his bed with his back facing the arch and Atemu sighed softly as he got closer.
"I need more doors, Até. There aren't any I can slam shut hard enough", Yami murmured softly as he could feel the bed dip in besides him. Warm tanned hands lay upon his shoulders, squeezing them softly and the pale man turned his gaze to look at his lover.
"You love the arches", Atemu whispered softly in return and Yami sighed softly.
"Right now they're not that fabulous. They won't keep my grandfather out, they won't keep his words from hurting me. I can't lock myself up in here either. They're beautiful, but at the moment, I'd prefer a door. A heavy one", were the pale man's soft words and he allowed for Atemu to draw him into a hug. Grasping the vest, pale knuckles turned almost white as Yami embraced the tanned man tightly. "I'm glad you're here though. I'm glad you can just walk in and be here with me".
Atemu nodded at those words as he stroked Yami's back reassuringly. "So am I, my love. Especially if you want me here", he murmured softly and he felt his lover nod against his shoulder. "I'll always be here for you", were the tanned man's next words and Yami smiled as he pulled away from his lover.
"I know and I appreciate it greatly, Até. I want you to stay with me, I don't care what my grandfather says. You're sleeping here, tonight, in my bed. I don't want to be alone, so please say you'll stay", the pale man pleaded and Atemu's lips curled in a loving smile as he stroked his lover's cheek affectionately.
"I'll be here. I would want nothing more", he answered and Yami nodded, before getting up from the bed and started to pace around the room. Atemu watched him fidget slightly and sighed softly. "You must speak with him, mon chéri, even if it will turn into an argument". At his words, Yami turned to him and crimson eyes locked with rose-red before the pale man shook his head again. He couldn't, he didn't want to talk with the man who he thought loved him, but apparently liked hurting him so much. Sugoroku's words had hit deep and Yami trembled as he could still hear the elder nearly accusing him of taking advantage of his lover.
When Atemu slowly rose from the bed as well, Yami turned to him. "I have spend enough time arguing with you. My whole life is turning in one big argument and I'm sick of it! I have spend enough time arguing with my grandfather, how much more do I need to try and convince him you are a good man?! He was nearly as bad as Rebecca! He nearly called me a whore!"
Gently, Atemu embraced the pale man, wincing as Yami's voice broke when he said his last few words. The pain of nearly being accused as such by his own grandfather was truly there and Atemu sighed softly. "I know, beloved, I know. And even though that angers me greatly, I do not want to see you lose your grandfather because of something that might still be solved. Talk to him, nothing will get better if you don't". The tanned man felt how pale hands grasped his vest again, a shuddering breath escaping Yami. For a moment longer there was silence as Yami just tried to soak up all that Atemu was and could give him.
"All right", he whispered next, though he didn't feel like talking to Sugoroku. He was already mentally drained from the trial today, why did his grandfather decide to hurt him as well? Atemu smiled encouragingly at him and softly kissed his cheek, before leaving him to summon the older man. Slowly, Yami turned to his windows and gazed outside while he heard soft shuffling feet coming closer. He had missed the Kame Game Shop the first few days and weeks, but so much had happened concerning his relationship with Atemu, he had wanted to fix that first. The tanned man was the reason he was here after all and he wanted to prove to his grandfather there was nothing but love between them.
"My boy-", Sugoroku's voice whispered softly as Yami's back continued to face him. A clipped voice cut him off however and he could clearly feel his grandson's anger.
"Don't call me that, you have no right to say it". Sugoroku sighed softly at those words and looked down at the floor. He had greatly hurt the younger man before him and for the first time, he probably realised how much. The tanned man had truly been furious and at the back presented towards him, Sugoroku sighed again, because he could feel the same cold and anger radiate of his grandson. Knowing he had to try once more, the older man opted for the less affectionate touch.
"Yami-"
"Do you know what Rebecca said to me? Do you?", Yami asked, interrupting Sugoroku again, though he finally turned around to meet the older man. "She called me a slut, a whore! She accused me of sleeping with the boss so I could get higher grades and pass my internship. She said I even raped Atemu for them. Is that all right? Is that what you want me to do? Take advantage of Atemu? Because I won't, gramps! I won't and I don't want to take advantage of him. I love him", the pale man declared and Sugoroku stared at his grandson and knew that for the first time, Yami's words finally got through.
Turning away from the elder as Sugoroku remained silent, Yami closed his eyes and sighed softly. At the sound of soft feet against the wooden floor, Yami looked back up and gasped when his grandfather tried to hug him. He struggled against the embrace, his grandfather had no right to come up to him like that! Yet, the elder held on to him and drained, Yami slowly sank to his knees with a soft objecting whimper falling over his lips. Old wrinkled hands stroked through his hair as Sugoroku continued to hold the pale man.
"I'm sorry Yami", he whispered, his voice soft and sincere. "I'm so sorry". The pale man shook his head at hearing those words while he tried to push Sugoroku away again.
"You've said that before, why should I believe you this time?", Yami asked, staring at the ground as he stopped pushing the elder away and just let him stroke through his tri-coloured hair. He didn't want to fight it anymore, he didn't want to fight his grandfather anymore and so, he gave up and let the elder embrace him.
"Because your words have never been so clear before than today. I didn't want to see your happiness and I'm sorry... Rebecca had no right to accuse you of that and I know you wouldn't do such a thing. I'm sorry if my words led you to think differently and I'm sorry my words have caused you so much grief", Sugoroku whispered, though Yami still wouldn't look at him.
"I know... I know you were angry gramps and I know you would never accuse me of what she did, but it still hurt to hear you say it. It still hurts you can't see I'm happy and it still hurts you can't see the good Atemu brings to me. He has given me a great job, he has helped me in finding a home I can afford without his help, he is there for me when things go wrong. I don't love Atemu because he has a lot of money, I love him because he cares for me, he makes me smile and because he loves me in return. Maybe you think you failed grandma and maybe you did, but... You never failed either Yugi or me. You were always there for us, but now, Atemu is here for me too. My relationship with him is not for you to dictate, even if you don't like him, but he makes me happy and all my choices are my own. Will you please trust me?", Yami whispered, finally looking up with his crimson eyes holding a pleading glint.
Softly, Sugoroku sighed, before he nodded. "I'll try to trust you, Yami. I know I'm doing a terrible job right now, but I really am trying and if that ma- … if Atemu makes you happy, than I am happy for you, my boy". Pausing ever so slightly, Sugoroku nibbled his lip, before continuing: "I'm old and stubborn, Yami, and although that is no excuse for what I have done... It does mean that I am not as quick at adapting to changing circumstances as I would have liked. It means I might take longer, even though my horrible behaviour is not excused by these words at all".
Tilting his head, Yami looked back down. This was probably the best he was going to get. Sure, Sugoroku may have trouble adapting to this change, but it had still hurt. At least the older man acknowledge that... he saw that what he had done was wrong. That was better than last time they had spoken as Arthur had had to drag an apology from Sugoroku and now... Now it had come out of his heart.
"Speaking of trying... there is something I have been thinking about. I know it's still far away, but speak about it with Atemu. I want to invite the both of you to join Yugi and myself for Thanksgiving. That's a time for family to spend together and even though I have not really been family lately and slow on the uptake... Atemu is becoming a part of our family. I want you to be happy, that has been my only wish and it's time I start to see clear. I might as well try to get to know the man and Thanksgiving would be the perfect occasion", Sugoroku said and crimson eyes looked back up at him. A warm smiled curled pale lips at hearing those words and Yami nodded slowly.
"I'll make sure Atemu's available. I know I should have done things differently with Atemu and I shouldn't have lied to you about him, but it makes me happy you're willing to try gramps. Atemu is truly not that bad, he's a loving man and I'm sure you'll see that too when you'll get to know him. But please? No more butting in?", Yami asked, slowly raising up from the floor as he gained some of his energy and spirit back. Sugoroku was going to try and that was what he needed... For now. Later, when everyone was gone, he would need Atemu and his strong arms wrapped around him while he slept.
"I'll try", Sugoroku said, smiling kindly as well and he received a small embrace from Yami as the latter felt gratitude course through him. It would still be awkward for a while, to have both his grandfather and Atemu in the same room, but there was a chance it would change. Deep down, Yami couldn't wait for that to happen and he sighed softly to calm himself completely. He led Sugoroku back towards the livingroom, hoping Yugi had calmed down a little as well and he really wanted to hold Atemu close because the tanned man had probably just saved his family, yet he halted slightly when he saw his younger brother on the sofa with a look of defeat on his face. Atemu was seated next to the teen, squeezing his shoulder softly in a possible attempt to reassure him. They were softly talking to each other, though as Yami and Sugoroku entered the livingroom, silence fell between them.
The elder sighed softly as he gazed at his second grandson, his sad demeanour falling around him like a blanket. He wasn't sure what Atemu had said or done, though he could see how the tanned man wiped a stray tear from Yugi's cheeks softly. He had hurt both of his grandsons, but while driving home, he would cheer the teen up again. He would tell the other all would be well again, even though Yami wouldn't come back with them.
"Let's go home Yugi", Sugoroku whispered, his words breaking the silence. Amethyst eyes, however, fall down to the clasped hands upon Yugi's lap. A sad expression pulled the teens lips in a tight line as he seemed to make up his mind.
"No", was Yugi's soft answer. Sugoroku frowned as he stared at his youngest grandson, barely noticing Atemu patting the teens shoulder before he got up and walked towards Yami. A frown marred Yami's features as he allowed for Atemu to take him back into his bedroom so that would leave Yugi and their grandfather in his livingroom.
"What's wrong?", Yami asked as he turned to the tanned man, who sighed softly.
"Just like you, your brother needed a word with your grandfather in privacy as well. He too is hurt by the way Sugoroku treated our relationship and Yugi doesn't want to go home", Atemu said and worried, Yami turned to the hallway when he could hear his brother's voice from the livingroom.
"Why are you so stubborn gramps? This hurt me too! First I nearly lose Yami to some freak who wants him dead and then you fight with him over a relationship that seemed just fine to me! Yami leaves to New York and I'm stuck with you! An angry old man who is too selfish to see that what he does is wrong! You have always been there for Yami and me, why did that change?!"
"Yami, wait-", Atemu tried for as soon as Yugi stopped raging, Yami rushed from the bedroom and back into the livingroom. Sugoroku stood frozen, while the teen was gasping for air in shuddering breaths. Wrapping his arms around Yugi gently, Yami pulled the younger sibling against his chest and let the other sob. He had done this, after all. He had left his brother with a moping old man to try and be happy with Atemu. Yami had somehow believed Yugi would be all right, but he wasn't. His younger sibling was hurt, maybe even more so than he was and Yami felt shame rise within him.
"I'm sorry", he whispered to the teen, rubbing Yugi's back in comfort as the teen poured all of it out. He sobbed about Yami leaving, that he was stupid because the pale man deserved a life for himself, but that it still wasn't fair. True, they called and texted every day, but it still wasn't fair. Nothing felt right anymore, the house was empty, the Kame Game Shop was empty and Yugi even missed his brother studying all day. He had been silent then, but at least the room hadn't been empty.
Yami sighed softly as he continued to hold his brother, wrinkled hands suddenly stroking through Yugi's hair as well when Sugoroku had come back to life. Purple eyes were sad and filled with worry, while they tried to calm the raging and sobbing teenager down. Just like Yami, Yugi tried to shy away from their grandfather at first, before he simply gave in. Crimson eyes glanced at Atemu for a moment and saw a warm smile curling tanned lips as the latter gazed at the trio of men. One of them was slowly calming down, while the other two tried to reassure him as best as they could. Not that it mattered. Yugi still refused to go with Sugoroku while he wiped the tears from his face and sat down on the sofa in stubborn defiance.
"Gramps, Yugi can stay here and we can book you a hotel, which is close by. You need rest too", Yami pleaded as he stood between the elder and his sibling.
"I'm not going home with you gramps. Not yet, not today. Not after you said those horrible things", Yugi interfered, before Sugoroku could even begin to explain himself. Atemu sighed softly as he watched how the elder looked utterly defeated and he looked at the floor momentarily. If he had not shown up months ago, none of this would have happened, though he also knew he wouldn't have been this happy again either. Atemu knew he would not have felt the kind of peace he was so grateful of.
"Yugi, you can't just stay here. Please", Sugoroku begged, but the teen shook his head again. Yugi had chosen a horrible timing to show he was just as stubborn as the elder, but Atemu knew the reason why. Yugi was hurt and a hormonal teenager with his own wishes and demands.
"Gramps, please. We're all tired and we all need to rest. I will not let you drive home tonight, not while we all are in a pretty emotional state. We still love you, gramps, and I truly accept your apology, but we need to be in our own little bubble right now. Please, let us call a hotel and let us arrange a bed for you made out of heaven. We can talk again tomorrow", Yami practically begged and at the purple eyes closing, the pale man knew he had won.
Slowly, Sugoroku nodded his consent. He would not leave New York without Yugi, he would not lose both of his grandsons. It reminded him too much of him failing his wife and son, he could not fail the remaining family that did wish to be with him if he just apologized. If he could just accept the situation before him. He looked at Atemu as the tanned man neared their broken family and squeezed Yami's shoulder gently as he smiled slightly. "I'll give them a call, mr. Muto and arrange a room for you. There is a lovely hotel at the end of this street", were Atemu's kind words and Sugoroku nodded slowly. As the tanned man walked away, Yami slowly released Yugi.
"I'll make sure gramps gets to the hotel safely, all right? We'll talk when I get back", Yami promised and Yugi nodded, realising this was the best option. If he wanted Yami to stay with him, he'd either left his grandfather to go on his own or he'd let Atemu walk the older man. Neither option was very appealing, though when Sugoroku wanted to give him a hug in goodbye, Yugi scooted back on the sofa and shook his head.
"No gramps... I'm still angry", he warned as he looked down at the floor. He knew he shouldn't be angry, he knew he would regret his behaviour if something terrible would happen, but he couldn't just accept the hug. It simply wasn't fair to have Yami treated like that, to live in a home where Sugoroku was still angry or pretended to be happy. Sure, his friends had tried to cheer him up and they had been great. The teen had gone to Anzu's and Jonouchi's very often to just talk, chill or make homework. Deep down, Yugi knew it was only temporarily, but that didn't make all of this all right.
When his grandfather and Yami had been talking, Atemu had even apologised. Yugi had listened to how the tanned man had said all of this was his fault, but the teen had denied it. Sure, Atemu had taken his brother from him, but only to protect him and give him an internship. Yugi knew how important Atemu was to Yami and even though the teen had been jealous countless of times, because he had wished to be away from Sugoroku as well, he could understand why Atemu had done it and Yugi also knew it made his brother happy. The teen had always loved his brother for protecting him during his childhood and earlier High School years. To have someone for his brother, to have someone looking after Yami... that made Yugi happy. Even though the circumstances were not. Glancing at Atemu slightly, the teen sighed softly as watched the tanned man scrub their dishes. Neither one of them knew what to do while they both waited for Yami to return.
It took a little while longer than Yugi had anticipated, but his musings were interrupted when he heard the key in the lock and the door close a few seconds later. Both amethyst and rose-red eyes stared at the pale man as he returned and a small smile played on his lips. "I'm fine", was the soft answer, before he walked over towards Atemu. "Why don't you take a shower? Please?", the pale man pleaded and Atemu smiled in return.
"Sounds like a plan. I also have some paperwork to finish", the tanned man said and Yami nodded, before he turned and headed towards the sofa where Yugi still resided. Smiling at his younger sibling, Yami sat down and pulled the other in for a hug. Yugi let him, leaning against his brother with a soft sigh.
"I'm sorry", they both whispered at the same time which had them chuckling softly. Yugi straightened slowly whilst crimson eyes were looking at him. The teen mused they were warm and loving, like they always were when Yami looked at him. Perhaps a different kind of love than he'd show towards Atemu, but it was still nice nonetheless.
"Little One... I am sorry I never really asked how you felt during the time gramps and I were struggling. I know me leaving towards New York was not really fair as wellas quite sudden and I'm sorry there has been little time from my side to invite you over. You're my brother and I kind of neglected you", Yami said softly, wincing slightly as he uttered his last words. Yugi sighed.
"It's all right, Yami. Tonight I've just been a brat about it, but I do understand why you left. It's not that I'm angry at you for leaving, it's just that gramps hasn't been fair while you were gone. He still thinks he's allowed to be angry and that has affected all of us. He promised me he wouldn't say anything about your relationship with Atemu and he broke that promise. I guess I didn't like that very much", the teen murmured and Yami chuckled softly.
"Just a little", he teased and Yugi smiled against his wishes. "But you have every right to be angry, Yugi. Especially if gramps promised you. Tsk, even I was pretty pissed off just now and I told him. He's feeling cornered because he has to accept a situation he doesn't want to and feels like everyone is against him. He will try to change though, Yugi. He will try to accept what is playing out before him. He even toyed with the idea of inviting Atemu and me for Thanksgiving long before coming here. He's not there yet, but at least we are getting somewhere", Yami explained and Yugi rose a curious eyebrow.
"He invited Atemu for Thanksgiving? Why did he make such a fuss today if he had already decided upon doing that?", Yugi asked and Yami shrugged slightly.
"Because it's gramps and because Rebecca placed doubt inside of him. Gramps is easily swayed because he still thinks Atemu will hurt me. All I have to do is prove him wrong, though Atemu has done that himself today. Gramps really appreciated him for calling a hotel and for trying to reassure you while the both of us were arguing in the bedroom. We'll get there, wherever that may be. He might never like Atemu, but I did tell him to stop giving you a hard time because of it", Yami said and Yugi nodded, a new smile forming on his lips.
"That would be nice", he said, before hugging Yami again. "I'm sorry for being a brat", though the pale man merely chuckled at his words.
"You're allowed to be a brat about it, Yugi. These are your feelings and you have to throw them out every now and then. Just, promise me to tell of them sooner, even if it's over the phone? I know I won't be at the Kame Game Shop that instance, but at least I can try and be there for you", Yami said and Yugi nodded as he decided he could keep himself to that promise.
"Are you all right though?", he asked softly and Yami smiled warmly at him.
"I'm fine, Little One. Yes, the trial and gramps have upset me, but I'm fine. I'm just really glad I can see you again and Atemu is here. I'm even glad to see gramps, even though we had another fallout. My internship goes really well though and I'm getting ahead of my homework. Living in this apartment is getting easier as well, the first few weeks I had to go back and forth to the store to buy new things because I kept missing household stuff. But I think I have everything right now", Yami admitted and he chuckled softly. Yugi followed him in his mirth and then stretched slightly.
"Thanks Yami, also for letting me stay here", Yugi said and the older sibling carded through the teens hair lovingly. It was Yami who shook his head slightly, however.
"No, Little One. Thank you", the pale man said and he smiled. "Though you finally get to test the sofa", was his tease and Yugi laughed as he nodded, before halting.
"I didn't bring anything", he said, which was true. Had Sugoroku not started an argument, they would have gone home after dinner. Yami smiled as he got up from the sofa and walked into his foyer to come back with a small white bag.
"I figured as much while walking gramps to the hotel. That's why it took longer to get back, we had to make a quick stop at the store so gramps had pyjama's and a toothbrush. I brought one for you too, as well as a hairbrush and some clean underwear. You can have my nightwear, if you don't mind", Yami said and Yugi eyed him warily.
"They are clean, right?", the teen teased and Yami rolled his eyes in a mock-glare.
"You can also sleep naked", he retorted to which Yugi shuddered. Yami chuckled softly as he gave the white bag to Yugi and shooed him off the sofa. "They're clean. Now, come on, I'm sure Até is finished and then you can have a shower while I make up your bed", the older man said as he pushed Yugi through the house. True to his words, Atemu was finished and had installed himself underneath the covers with different files surrounding him. The teen accepted the pair of sweatpants and shirt from his brother, before he walked into the bathroom. It was odd not being able to close the door, though the shower was far away enough and Yugi enjoyed himself as he stepped underneath the soothing stream. The warm water was a relieve to his skin as well as his mind and Yugi sighed in relieve as he could just relax for a small moment.
Yami sighed softly as he heard the shower run to which rose-red eyes looked up at him and Atemu patted the sheets softly while taking the folders off of Yami's side of the bed. Wearily, Yami smiled, before he simply flopped down upon the bed with his face against the pillows. A warm hand stroked his back gently and Yami sighed as he felt drained. "I'm sorry", he whispered for the umpteenth time that day, before he felt Atemu shift him to roll him onto his back. Taking the pillow with him to press it against his chest, Yami looked up at his lover tiredly.
"There is no need to apologise", Atemu whispered, though that only seemed to sadden the pale man.
"Yes there is, Até. You were once again present to the horror my grandfather can sometimes be. You were once again insulted and you were once again seen as a danger. I thought he had moved passed all of that and I'm sorry he said such things", the younger man whispered, unable to raise his voice any louder. Leaning onto his arm, Atemu shifted to his side so he could pull his lover against his chest in a warm embrace.
"It's all right", was the tanned man's soft answer and Yami sighed softly, snuggling up against Atemu as he discarded his pillow and wrapped his arms around Atemu's frame instead. It was not all right, Yami knew this and hated to admit it. Sugoroku had stepped out of line, once again...
"He invited us for Thanksgiving", Yami blurted out as he pulled away from Atemu slightly and looked up into warm rose-red eyes. Atemu frowned a little in disbelieve and Yami nodded. "When we were talking in here, he said he wanted to start trying to accept. At least, give it a better try than he has done so far and he invited us over. When I walked him to the hotel, he said he had been thinking about doing so for a few weeks now. I guess it's gramps' way of saying sorry".
A soft snort escaped Atemu and Yami stroked his cheek lovingly. "I demanded he apologise, not give an excuse", the tanned man grumbled to which his lover chuckled softly.
"He did apologise too", were Yami's next words and Atemu nodded slowly. "Thank you for standing up for me, again, but I'm also really grateful you talked with Yugi. He was more hurt than I realised and I should have been there for him. I'm glad you were there when I was with my grandfather". Atemu smiled warmly as he placed a soft kiss against Yami's forehead.
"No need to thank me, Yami. I'm still very grateful to Yugi and he needed someone to talk to. I'm glad you and him were able to speak as well", Atemu said and Yami nodded, before he slowly sat up and sighed softly.
"Still, thanks", were his sincere words, before he got up from the bed and started to rummage around his wardrobe for blankets to make up the sofa. When Atemu wanted to help out, he was mock-glared back to the bed with a soft: "Don't move, I'll be right back", so the tanned man remained where he was. He chuckled softly when Yugi peeked around the edge of the arch, before smiling in slight relieve.
"Good night Yugi", Atemu offered and the teen nodded as he continued to smile.
"Good night Atemu, and thanks for today", he whispered, to which he received a warm smile in return.
"Your welcome Yugi. I'm here if you need to talk some more", the tanned man said and Yugi nodded, before he walked into the livingroom to see his brother fluffing up a pillow. As he neared, Yami turned and smiled, fluffing up another pillow, before Yugi hugged him gently.
"Thanks for letting me stay", he whispered and Yami hummed softly as he returned the embrace.
"Always, Little One. You're my brother and I have done a horrible job in taking care of you these past few weeks, but I'll get back on track. I promise", the pale man said and Yugi tightened the hug.
"You're my awesome brother and always will be so. I'm just... I am happy you're happy, Yami", he whispered and the pale man smiled in gratitude at those soft words. He gently helped Yugi to the sofa when the latter yawned and covered him with the sheets gently. Sitting down next to him, Yami carded through the nearly similar tri-coloured hair of his younger sibling and watched with a smile how amethyst eyes fell close occasionally.
"Your words mean a lot to me, Yugi. Thank you", he whispered and he listened to how the teen murmured incoherently, before he woke from his slight slumber. "Good night Little One", were Yami's next words as he rose from the sofa and walked towards the arch leading to his bedroom.
"Good night Yami", Yugi whispered in return and Yami smiled as he turned the lights off and left. Seeing Atemu again was a welcomed sight and the pale man walked up to the bed to kiss his lover on the lips softly.
"I'll take a quick shower and then join you, all right? Though I'll probably collapse in a coma straight after", the pale man teased and he gave a soft snort at Atemu's chuckle.
"All right, mon chéri, but I do demand you with me in the next ten minutes. You need sleep", Atemu whispered and Yami nodded as he discarded himself of his clothes and walked into the bathroom to take a quick shower. Today had been mad and he just wanted to wash all of it off of him. If he did, he would be able to enjoy Atemu's presence far more and he gave in to his longing as soon as he could. With his hair still damp, Yami felt how his lover pulled him close while still reading through his paperwork. Fluffing his own pillows, the pale man snuggled up to Atemu and circled his arms around the slender waist. This was comfort, this was nice and Yami sighed softly as his eyes started to fall close.
"Sleep, Yami. I'll be here and watch over you", Atemu whispered, looking down upon the pale man lovingly as he stroked his lover's back in comfort. Yami murmured something incoherently, before "I love you" fell over his pale lips. "I love you too, mon chéri. Goodnight", the tanned man replied, smiling lovingly when Yami's breathing evened out. His lover had truly been tired as well as mentally drained and Atemu continued to stroke Yami's back while reading through a report. It wasn't that late yet and he still had some work to do, though it also took his mind off of other things. Sugoroku had hurt him, which was something to get worked up about, but Atemu was truly furious because the elder had disrespected and insulted his lover again. More over, he was angry at himself because he had not stepped in sooner. He had not been able to prevent it, just like he had not been able to prevent the disaster involving Rebecca. Looking up from the report when he saw Yugi peeking into the bedroom, he frowned in worry. The teen, however, smiled at him as he slowly came into the room.
Yugi was glad his brother was asleep, snuggled up against the tanned man lovingly and deep down the younger sibling wished he could have this when he was older. To have someone with him who watched over him out of a different love and care than when his brother had done so in the past. Truthfully, he had not been able to sleep, because something was still nagging at him and he slowly made his way towards Atemu. After talking with the tanned man earlier that evening, there was another question he still wanted to ask.
"Are you all right?", Atemu asked softly as Yugi walked up to him and he laid the report down on his lap. He watched how the teen wrung his hands nervously, before sighing.
"I was hoping you could tell me how Yami has been? I mean... I think Yami doesn't want to tell me about things going wrong, because he doesn't want to worry me, but I know there is something. He said he was fine, but is he really? I was hoping you'd be honest. How has my brother really been doing?", Yugi asked and Atemu stared at him for a moment longer, before he patted the spot next to him gently. As the teen sat down, Yugi could feel his nerves rise.
"Truth be told, today was a horror and it took its toll on your brother. These past weeks have been trying and Yami is holding up. He's fine, but not everything around him is fine. If you get what I mean", Atemu said to which Yugi nodded. His brother wasn't sick, but everything happening wasn't perfect and didn't make him happy. "Yami and I argued a few times, because we didn't communicate which resulted in him being sad. He was really angry with me, but we made up and I think we are heading in the right direction again. Rebecca was horrible and I think her accusations made him realise things with your grandfather are still unresolved. But he works hard at the company and he appears to be enjoying himself. He befriended new co-workers and he was excited to see you again. He misses you a lot, Yugi, I know he does. Even if he won't say it".
As Atemu finished speaking, amethyst eyes turned towards the sleeping man and Yugi sighed softly. "I knew it", he murmured and frowned slightly. "You argued?", was his question to which Atemu chuckled softly.
"Yes, we did. Everyone argues, Yugi, but we also need to talk about the why. Yami taught me that and I am very grateful he did. We are still unsure on how to continue as your grandfather's words left their marks in the both of us. We are recovering from them and learning to be confident again", the tanned man explained softly and Yugi nodded slowly as he started to understand. "It doesn't mean I don't love Yami, because I do. Very much". Amethyst eyes looked up as Atemu whispered his last words and he smiled.
"I know you do and I can see Yami is happy when you're around. When you guys were still writing to each other, he was always excited when your letter arrived. After he got hurt in the bus accident, I kind of helped him unpack your gift and it was the first time I saw him the kind of happy you make him. I'm just glad he has you and that he's fine. Even though his life his not perfect", Yugi said and gently, Atemu covered the teen's hands with his own.
"Nobody's life is perfect, Yugi. But both you and your brother are strong enough to survive the hardship. I'll just try to be there as much as I can", the tanned man said and Yugi nodded, slowly getting up from the bed as he was satisfied with the answer. He hadn't truly believed Yami had lied to him about being "fine", but it was still a relieve to know he actually was. Minus a few imperfections.
"Thanks Atemu", he said and the other gave a slight nod with his head.
"Any time", the tanned man said and Yugi smiled as he walked towards the arch. His brother would be fine again, because there was someone taking care of him. It felt good, Yugi realised and he slowly turned back towards the bed. Rose-red eyes were watching him curiously and he grinned.
"I'm glad I set you up with my brother, Atemu. You're really good for him. Thanks", he whispered, before disappearing from the bedroom. The tanned man stared after the leaving form, musing about if that was truly so. Yami was good for him, all he did was try and be there for his lover as much as he could. Was he good for his lover? After everything that he had caused?
"I agree with Yugi, Até", was the soft whisper next to him and Atemu looked down at the pale man at his side. Crimson eyes were still closed, but the tanned man could feel how his lover cuddled up to him a little more and he sighed softly. Yami felt less tense and the tanned man was glad he did so. Had that truly been his doing?
"That's sweet of you, mon chéri, but you should be sleeping as you've had a very trying day", he countered and pale arms tried to drag him down to the bed ever so slightly. Understanding the hint, Atemu chuckled as he laid his paperwork to the side before turning the bedside lamp off. Shifting so he could lie down, the tanned man purred softly when Yami snuggled up to him immediately. Pale legs wrapped around his own while Atemu embraced his lover gently.
"'Night Até. Love you", was the soft and sweet murmur and a fond smile curled Atemu's lips as he looked down at the sleeping man curled up against him. Shifting so he could lie on his side, Yami murmured softly as he agreed to the new position and pressed his face against Atemu's chest. Chuckling softly, Atemu pressed his lips against the top of Yami's head and nuzzled him affectionately.
"I love you too", he answered and just relished in the fact he was able to hold his sleeping lover. He curled his own legs around Yami's as much as possible while he tried to hold the pale man as close as possible. His lover had been hurt today, yet... there was someone other than Yami finally saying their relationship was good. Sure, Mahado had said they could become good, but Yugi already believed they were. Those words warmed Atemu to his core as he felt gratitude sweep over him and he basked in the feeling as he closed his eyes. Truthfully, he wasn't so sure yet sometimes, but right now... Right now he had his lover in his arms and they were there for one another. He was allowed to be with Yami, to share his happiness and his pain and deep down, Atemu was glad he was set up with his lover as well. It was the best thing that ever happened to him.
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Thank you all for reading and if you have the time, please leave a review. See you all in the next chapter!