Hi Everyone! My sincere apologies for posting this one four weeks after the last chapter, but to be truthful: I am unconsciously taking a small break from writing and this chapter bothered me with being difficult. Hence why this chapter might be considered a mess, but I grew sick and tired of Berlin after researching it and finding barely anything of interest I wish to share with you.
London, on the other hand, will have a complete chapter in and of itself, so rest assured: Atemu and Yami will spend a day out again as if they are tourists like they were in Egypt. Although I do admit that BD is not the first of priorities to write currently while I am struggling to make it so again. I am running behind in months drastically, I realise this, but my head is just spinning from all the other ideas I have and I am trying to sort through them while also taking a small break from fanfiction (as you all have noticed I am sure).
Anyway, enough of my complaining and although I was highly tempted, Malik won't make a surprise appearance... I am very sorry (but I might write a scene like that just for the fun of it and post it in my Hundred Words-file while still making the Monarchshipping evident. Who knows, I might accept the challenge).
Also, I'd really like to extend my sincere gratitude towards Jofisk and my Guest for reviewing the previous chapter. I am truly sorry you had to wait so long for this, but hopefully you'll be able to enjoy it either way.
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Blind Date – Chapter 59
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Thoroughly cleaned up, somewhat dressed and very content, Yami snuggled up to his lover underneath the exquisite soft covers. It was chillier than in Egypt, but that made their contact even more valuable and a grateful murmur escaped pale lips prior to them kissing the bare chest their owner was nuzzling fondly ever since both men had finally left the shower. A happy sigh was the answer to the soft touches while Atemu pulled his lover closer to his frame prior to caressing Yami's tri-coloured hair with affection.
"Thank you, Até", the pale man whispered softly as he lifted his head from the broad chest it had been resting upon to stare into warm rose-red eyes that gleamed with satisfaction. He couldn't help but feel the same while his fingers continued to stroke tanned skin tenderly at the same time his lover's free hand cupped his cheeks. "Thank you for joining me to the party, for forgiving me as I started the argument and for giving me this wonderful evening. Thank you for loving me", Yami continued softly, prior to shifting his body so he could lean down and capture his lover's lips in a languid kiss.
"There truly was nothing to forgive, mon chéri. It is as you said, healthy, and it shows us what the other thinks. Although I am glad we were able to come to an agreement and you're right... This year will be very different, as I will be with you and I will love you. Thank you for having me in return", Atemu whispered in answer gently when they parted and Yami smiled as his blond bangs were caressed out of his face, before tanned fingers drew him back in for another kiss.
"Always Até, as I love you very much", Yami whispered when they broke apart again and he smiled like his lover did, before he snuggled up to the other man once more with a peaceful sigh leaving his lips. "Always", he murmured while a gentle hand continued to caress his hair soothingly and crimson eyes closed in content as the pale man felt himself relax.
"Indeed always, mon chéri", Atemu returned just as softly as he tightened his hold upon his lover and smiled with a soft chuckle escaping his lips as he caressed the pale skin tenderly. "Although there is one thing we don't need to argue about, my sweet", he continued as he stared at the ceiling and replayed their passionate moment inside his head.
"Our love for each other?", Yami asked softly with a sweet and sleepy smile on his lips while he enjoyed the sound of his lover's beating heart. It was a wonderful sound and it made him sigh in content once more.
"That, as well as the fact that our previous position is one I'd like to try again", Atemu declared while his lips continued to curl in a teasing smile. "And again... and again", he continued with a chuckle at the same time pale cheeks lit up with a feverish blush. Still, Yami laughed softly with an embarrassed sound escaping his lips while he cuddled up to his lover as close as he could.
"You'd like that, don't you?", he asked, prior to a yawn escaping him which prompted for Atemu to grasp the pale body tighter. "So would I", Yami commented with a sleepy chuckle and the tanned man rumbled softly in appreciation as he felt a peaceful feeling wash over him slowly.
"We'll dream of it, mon chéri. Sleep well", Atemu said kindly as his eyes fell close and Yami nodded as he hoped he would. Watching his lover as he rode him to bliss had been a wonderful sight the pale man would happily remember as he slept the night away.
"Good night, Até", he whispered in return, to which he received another gentle caress while their breaths slowly evened out and sleep claimed them. It was too bad he couldn't remember his dream when he woke up, but Yami didn't really mind as his reality was far more pleasant. They had shifted and turned in their sleep, which resulted in Atemu spooning up against him and the pale man sighed as he drifted between waking and sleeping peacefully.
Luckily, they would have the morning off, as it was Sunday and only idiotic business people back at home had wanted a meeting with his lover in regards to the hacking. The thought alone made Yami's mood turn sour, even though he was glad Atemu could rest for a little while. Still, his lover worked hard and wanted the best for his corporation. He had given out statements to say everything was getting back in order, but there were still demands from other companies to have clarity and Yami sighed again as he tried to set it aside. He really wanted to enjoy this morning, especially because this would really be their only one as his lover had had to reschedule his appointments with the office in Berlin in order to make space for the ones coming in after the hacking.
Aside from that, Yami could feel his nerves growing ever so slightly as he would also be out and about to visit stores with a manager to see the inner workings in a different country. He couldn't help but wonder what it would be like and if he'd see many differences, while his nerves were hoping he'd do well because he didn't want to let Atemu down in a strange country. Nor did he want to get lost and the pale man sighed again as he pushed the images away of him being lost in Berlin. He couldn't speak the language, after all, and even though his lover had said most people could understand him... what if they couldn't?
Taken from his musings when tanned arms tightened around him, Yami felt his lips curl up in a smile while Atemu stretched behind him with a deep intake of breath. "Good morning", he whispered softly as the naked, warm body was pressed a little bit more against his own at the same time his lover yawned.
"Good morning", the tanned man returned just as softly while he snuggled up to Yami just a little more for it was quite comfortable to hold him and Atemu smiled as he received an approving hum in return. "Did you sleep well?", he questioned, before he pressed his lips against pale skin affectionately.
"Yes, I did, although it was nice to wake up like this as well. Knowing we have the morning to ourselves and it was quite nice to listen to you still sleeping behind me. Did you sleep well?", Yami asked in return while his body wanted to stretch and he yawned, before he blinked his eyes open ever so slightly. Unsatisfied with the sight, he closed them again while grasping the warm hands pressed up against his body and he laced their fingers gently with a soft sigh of content.
"I slept well, mon chéri, and I am very glad we can enjoy this morning together. Our only one for now, up until next week Saturday and Sunday... which I don't want to think about just yet. First, I will kiss you", Atemu answered softly, prior to shifting so he could lean up on his elbow and in return, Yami turned onto his back while opening his eyes again to stare at the man he loved. Lips touched against his fondly to kiss him languidly and the pale man couldn't help himself as he moaned softly in appreciation. His hands easily found their way into the thick tri-coloured hair of his lover where they massaged his scalp at the same time his body enjoyed their shifted position. He loved the hands gliding across his frame with a gently caress until one cupped his face tenderly and Yami smiled as they broke apart.
"I definitely don't want to think about anything work-related when you kiss me like that", he mused teasingly and Atemu chuckled at his lover while rubbing his nose against a pale one fondly. "I'd like to think of you only", Yami continued, before he captured the tanned lips in another kiss again and his mind couldn't help itself as it offered him the delight of knowing he was allowed to show any appropriate amount of public love again too. They were allowed to link their arms once more and he could lean against his lover again to feel connected and the pale man did just that after they had finally gotten dressed while the clock had already passed noon. Atemu making love to him in the morning was a gift Yami hadn't denied himself, nor his lover, and he couldn't get rid of the smile curling his lips while tanned fingers were laced with his own lovingly.
As they reached the lobby, they could already hear the soft melody of Italian music spilling forth from the restaurant. Upon entering, the buffet smelled wonderful while people were enjoying their meals and Yami couldn't help himself as he looked around the beautiful room prior to being brought to their table. It was wonderful to be with the other man as they ordered their lunch which would hopefully last Atemu through the meetings until dinner, but the pale man didn't want to think about that just while he held his lover's hand atop the table after kissing the knuckles gently.
"Thank you", he merely whispered while rose-red eyes stared at him and Yami smiled as the soft kiss was returned with as much love as he had tried to give it.
"It is truly wonderful to touch you again like this in public. To love you again the way you should be without either one of us ending up in jail. I am glad you will join me to the company this afternoon after lunch, although I do wish to show you something first if the weather clears up", Atemu said and Yami nibbled his lip slightly before he chuckled softly.
"And what would that be? Haven't you shown me enough already?", he whispered softly while a flush crept upon his cheeks and both men laughed while rose-red eyes gleamed hotly. His lover had shown him plenty too and Atemu rumbled, before they both accepted their ordered drinks.
"Perhaps, but I do hope to show you a little bit of Berlin aside from all that I have to offer", the tanned man whispered in return and he couldn't help himself as he felt both excited to once more have what he had to let go of in Egypt, while he tried to contain all of that as well in order to remain appropriate in public. Yami seemed to catch onto that too, however, and Atemu smiled as he caressed the top of his lover's hand with his thumb tenderly. "About fifteen minutes from here there is the Brandenburger Gate and it's quite impressive. I'd like to show you before we go to the company", the older male continued gently and he watched how crimson eyes lit up with curiosity before his lover nodded.
"When we were in Egypt, I looked up some of the things we could do in between meetings. It's said to be one of the things someone must see while they were in Berlin, so I'd really like to see it with you. It's unfortunate we won't be able to visit the park that lies beyond it", Yami answered softly while shrugging ever so slightly to get rid of the unwanted feelings that accompanied his words of disappointment. Catching the notion, however, Atemu smiled while squeezing his lover's hand gently.
"We will visit it this week, I promise. Even if the rain continues to pour down", the tanned man promised and his lover chuckled softly while his pale cheeks flushed again. Yet, there was a warm gleam in his crimson eyes which Atemu loved and Yami smirked while tilting his head.
"As long as we'll share an umbrella, I'm all in", the pale man said and they chuckled softly as they enjoyed their morning and their late lunch, before Yami hummed to gather his lover's attention prior to heading outside. "Will you tell me what the company is like?", he asked softly with genuine interest, as that would be the place where he'd have to leave Atemu behind nearly every day and he'd like to know the 'prison' beforehand. Luckily, it had stopped raining after they had finished eating and clad in their warm coats Yami had packed, both men left the hotel with their arms linked.
"Well, it's smaller than Sennen Corporation, because this office only deals with all the stores in Germany. Yes, there are quite a few, but not as much as back home. The building has a few separate floors which deal with different things. One is for manufacturing, the other is for emergency help, there is a service desk for franchisers while there is also one for customers and clients. We, however, won't be dealing with them today as we'll only be stuck in the conference room for a while and you know the schedule for that one", Atemu said softly and Yami nodded as he did know indeed. It would be the room from which his lover had to defend his company again, much like he had done the entire week and the pale man wasn't exactly looking forward to it.
Still, the fresh air was able to halt his train of thought as the brisk wind was chilly and Yami leaned against his lover a little more to share the warmth between their bodies. The surrounding buildings were a mixture between classical and modern design, with sometimes a baroque-like influence, but everything fit in the neighbourhood as if it was one and Yami smiled while Atemu recited information from his phone in regards to what they were about to see.
"Currently, we're walking on a street that is called 'Unter den Linden', which literally means 'Under the Linden', as the boulevard is lined with Linden-trees. It used to be the way leading directly to the royal city palace of the Prussian monarchs and the gate used to be the monumental entry of this street", the tanned man said while he wished he could pull his lover closer against his frame, but as he couldn't, he leaned his head a little closer to Yami's while he scrolled a little further through the given information at the same time they strolled further along the boulevard.
"As it is, the gate's neoclassical design is based upon the gateway to the Acropolis in Athens called the Propylaea, in Greece and it is consistent with Berlin's history of architectural classicism, baroque and neo-palladian. Once, Berlin was a small walled city within a star fort which held many gates of the Customs Wall built in 1730 and the Brandenburger Gate was commissioned by Frederick William II to represent peace. It was built between 1788 and 1791 to replace the earlier and simpler guardhouses flanking the original gate of the aforementioned wall", Atemu continued, before they both looked up at the Greek-inspired building standing before them.
It was a massive structure with beautiful carvings upon the thick columns as well as the square 'altar' which held the Quadriga atop the roof. "It's beautiful", Yami whispered as he glanced at the chariot drawn by four horses as well as the lady within it. She was holding a lance decorated with a Prussian Eagle as well as an Iron Cross and the latter was circled by a wreath of oak leafs.
"It is, isn't it? The lady in the chariot is the goddess Victoria of victory. She was once taken off the gate by Napoleon as he had won, but restored to her position by general Ernst von Pfuel after the Prussian occupation of Paris in 1814. Aside from that, the gate also survived World War II and it was one of the damaged structures still standing in 1945. After Germany's surrender and the end of the war, the governments of both East and West Berlin restored the gate in a joint effort", Atemu read while he looked back at his phone and he could feel how Yami leaned against him some more to look at the information as well.
"Both vehicles and pedestrians were allowed to travel freely through the gate, which was then located in East Berlin, until the Berlin Wall was built in 1961. The Gate was closed and nobody was allowed to go from one side to the other. Even though there were demonstrations, the gate remained closed until the 22nd of December 1989, which is after the revolutions as well as the fall of the Berlin Wall earlier in November. Afterwards, the gate symbolized freedom and after the opening in December, the remainder of the wall was demolished the following year", the tanned man continued, before they both looked back up to admire the grand structure.
"That's quite a history... it's beautiful Até", Yami murmured softly while his eyes roamed over the carvings upon the thick columns and the altar once more, before they glanced at the goddess poised on top. Atemu smiled with a nod of his head and he pecked the side of his lover's cheek softly, prior to taking him a little closer so they could see the different stones inside the pavement that marked where the wall had once stood. It left Yami with a certain impression that continued to stay with him even when he was seated in the back of the limousine with his lover on their way towards the company. It made him want to hold Atemu, as so many people hadn't been able to when the gates had been built, but he had to make do with a warm smile prior to his lover helping him out of his seat.
The company itself was just as beautiful as the rest of the city, as it was infused with both modern and artistic styles to fit into the neighbourhood and crimson eyes took everything in before Yami glanced around the beautiful interior design the moment he walked through the large front doors Atemu opened for them.
Large grey tiles made up the floor inside the lobby where the walls behind the silvery-grey desk were covered in smooth wood. It jumped towards the eye, as the remaining walls were of a simple white colour and Yami couldn't help but like the design. Plants were situated in each corner while they also brightened up the waiting area where comfortable chairs were waiting above a dark, black rug with silver lining.
Just like Atemu had been able to open up the front door, he also could with every other door they met on their way towards the conference room, and the pale man looked around with awe while he followed his lover through the long hallways. The conference room itself consisted of a black carpet and dark wooden tables situated in a large rectangle with an open space in the middle. Comfortable black chairs were currently free and as Yami was ushered in a seat, Atemu ensured everything was working on his end for the upcoming video call. There was nobody else in the entire building, which made it oddly silent while the pale man watch as his lover managed himself quite well with the equipment. It definitely showed Atemu had done this numerous times before, but it was still impressive to see the tanned man work the way he did.
Everything was done in an orderly fashion and because Yami was allowed to sit in on their meetings, he was finally able to see his lover truly at work. How he was a strong leader who was able to say what he wanted in exactly the right way and Yami admired his lover while they went in and out of meetings. He experienced all his lover had to do first-hand, except for a few private appointments, but that was all right. It gave him time to handle the phone calls as well as his lover's e-mail account while he also worked on his essay, which the pale man really wanted to because he learned so much more from not only his lover, but from a German manager as well while he visited several stores around the city the next several days.
It was on one of those days that Yami was away with a manager to learn new things, that Atemu sighed softly as he was on his own in the conference room after a simple meeting which had been like many others this past week. They would almost leave to England once more and with everything calming down concerning the hacking, the tanned man felt a sense of relief washing over him. Some companies had even cancelled their meetings with him because Atemu had been open towards them with updates on both their personal files as well as the fact no other hacking had occurred ever since. It gave him more time while being in England to investigate his options as he had been really busy with the sister-company as well and it would definitely give him more time with his lover. Now that every file had been accurately saved and after showing his lover how work was like in a German corporation, they were almost ready to leave and to enjoy each other once more through less busy times.
Fortunately, German companies were not much different from in his own, which was why he had allowed for Yami to go to the stores and see what happened there with his own eyes. Of course he would have loved it to come along now that things had calmed down, but he couldn't right now and gently, Atemu accepted the incoming video-call which revealed Seto on the large screen. "Good morning", the tanned man said while ice-blue eyes gleamed with curiosity.
"Morning... or rather, afternoon for you. Where is Yami?", the tall brunet asked while he glanced around the screen, but Atemu sighed softly while giving a tiny smile.
"Yami is visiting the stores with a manager for his essay, which gives us a little time to talk... even though I feel like I am betraying him, but I wanted to tell you we'll be attending the Halloween party hosted by Pegasus in about three weeks time", the tanned man informed and he watched how Seto frowned at the same time his gleaming eyes turned hard with confusion.
"Why would you attend the party? There is absolutely no need to give into that old man's request, so cancel before it's too late!", the other man exclaimed as if he was ordering someone around, but Atemu was not offended. He knew where the feeling stemmed from, but slowly, he shook his head. Aside from the fact he would need his lover to get him through the evening, he would also need Seto. Especially if everyone would come and ask uncomfortable questions he wasn't looking forward to.
"I can't cancel, Seto, as I have agreed to go with Yami. He really wanted to go and to be fairly honest, I couldn't say no. I tried to say it wasn't a party worthy of our time, but he wants to see more of my world he's unfamiliar with... and there was nothing I could think of to change his mind without ending it into a big fight. This party is not worth it to lose the man I love just because I don't want to attend", Atemu answered and he sighed softly while the tall brunet stared at him from the other side of the screen.
"You're really going?", Seto asked, as if he couldn't believe his ears. He couldn't, not even when the smaller man nodded slowly, but he turned in his seat either way. "Kisara! Change of plans! Tell Pegasus we're coming to his ridiculous party and that he's ordered to make it a grand feast!", he barked while turning his head away from the screen, although that made rose-red eyes gleam with worry.
"You don't have to invite Kisara over, Seto and truly, I am only asking for you to come as I am expecting uncomfortable questions in regards to the hacking", Atemu said rather quickly, but ice-blue irises returned to him nonetheless.
"If you're going, I'm going too. This is not as simple as just a party, Atemu, and you know that. Even though I think it is ridiculous you're giving in to your lover's wishes, there is also a part of me that understands. That said, I will still support you, no matter it is at some blasted party or not. I just hope you know what you're doing", Seto answered in return and Atemu took a deep breath as he stared at the screen while Kisara was chatting in the background. He sincerely hoped so too, but as the white-haired woman neared with her questions as to why her husband had changed his mind, Seto turned the screen off without saying goodbye. Being left in the silence, the tanned man could barely rid himself of his companion's last words while taking another deep breath to calm his overworked mind.
He had to halt his thoughts, however, when there was a soft knock against the door and as he turned towards it with a soft call for the other person to come in, he smiled when Yami entered the conference room. "Is it all right to come in or do you have another meeting in five seconds?", the pale man asked with a worried gleam in his eyes which only warmed Atemu from the inside. Quickly, he extended his hand for his lover to take as he walked in at the same time tanned lips curled upwards reassuringly and crimson eyes gleamed as Yami accepted the offered gesture.
"Tell you what... I just finished my last video-call and now I have the remainder of the afternoon off. But you already know that", Atemu purred with a knowing smirk on his lips and Yami chuckled softly with a nod, before he was gently pulled atop his lover's lap.
"Yes... yes, I do, but maybe someone had called in while I had been to the store with the other manager. Do realise I am very happy no one did. You need some time off", the pale man answered in return while he smiled warmly and rose-red irises gleamed lovingly in return while pale fingers were playing with Atemu's burgundy tie.
"Do I?", was the soft question and tanned lips curled in a smile when Yami nodded. "Well, then perhaps you would like to accompany me to Berlin's Radio Tower for a look across the city at 679 feet while dining in their restaurant?", Atemu continued to ask and he laughed when surprise and confusion settled upon his lover's face.
"What? When did you book that?", Yami asked in surprise while he started to smile as he was slowly placed on top of his feet so the tanned man could rise from his seat as well. Tanned lips kissed his brow tenderly afterwards, before Atemu smiled warmly.
"The moment you were in the shower feeling very happy with the fact the original appointment for this afternoon was cancelled. It was why I joined you a little later than I had really intended to", the older male answered softly and he kissed Yami's brow again while pale lips curled in a warm smile at the same time gentle fingers linked with his own.
"Silly... But I'd love to join you any time for dinner, especially since that is one of the only times someone is willing to share you with me this week apparently and I want to make the most out of them whenever we can, Até. So yes, a hundred times yes, I'd like to have dinner with you", was the kind answer while Yami smiled lovingly and tanned lips returned the happy expression, before Atemu logged himself out of the system. Afterwards, they made their way down the long hallways and through the lobby towards their driver waiting for them where Yami thanked his lover when the latter held the door of the limousine open for him.
It only took a moment longer for Atemu to join him, as the latter discussed their trip from the company towards the hotel with the young woman as well as her driving them both towards the Radio Tower when they had freshen up. Yami smiled as his lover did take his seat at last, prior to lacing their fingers together with a loving gleam in his crimson eyes. "At what time did you book the table?", he asked softly, considering it was currently three o'clock, though Atemu's reassuring smile made his own a little brighter.
"At six, which means we will have plenty of time to freshen up and for you to tell me about your day. What have you seen? Anything useful for your essay and the mock-up store or something you'd like to take back home?", the tanned man asked in return and Yami tilted his head with a slight hum, although he continued to smile as well.
"There truly wasn't anything I've seen that was much different from the stores back in New York or even my grandfather's to be fairly honest. Some of the board games were different and there were a few I didn't know which are apparently quite popular here in Germany, but the computer games are the same where ever I go", Yami answered, which had his lover chuckle softly, before he continued: "As for the manager leading me around today, he was different from the woman who has accompanied me the other two days, as I've spend Tuesday working on my essay mostly, but I found her more pleasant than him. Of course, I'd still prefer you over either one of them, but mrs. Höffner was very kind".
"What was different, if I may ask?", Atemu questioned with a small frown and he listened to the small hum of his lover once more while Yami seemed to look for words.
"You're not going to fire them if I speak bad, right?", the pale man asked at first, although he chuckled with relief when his lover shook his head.
"No, mon chéri, I will not fire them. They are good employees, but you are an intern and I'd like to know what the difference was in case there will be other interns. All I will do is tell the company that mrs. Höffner is a better teacher than her colleague if you believe she is", Atemu answered gently and he watched the gears at work in his lover's mind while crimson eyes gleamed slightly at the same time.
"Well, I'm not sure about the fact if she's 'better', but she was more pleasant to speak with and yes, she was able to explain certain things easier than her colleague whenever I had a question. Her way of answering wasn't degrading either, just informative and to the point, whereas mr. Wagner didn't seem to be certain of his answers. As if he hadn't been employed in his position for that long yet, while mrs. Höffner was quite fluent and she actually knew the stores we were visiting. She was far more prepared than her colleague was and that made a huge difference for me", was the eventual answer and Atemu nodded slowly while smiling proudly as he listened to his lover's choice of words. Well-chosen ones that would have done extremely well inside a conference room and the tanned man tightened his hold upon the hand holding his own gently.
"Well said, mon chéri, and I will transfer this information towards the right department when I'll see them tomorrow for our last day of meeting up and analysing certain differences. You'll be at the hotel, won't you?", Atemu asked softly and Yami nodded while he started to recognise the street leading towards their current accommodations.
"Yes, I'd like to work some more on my essay prior to having a chat with Ryou concerning our meeting point as well as the exact time so I can figure out which route to take in advance. As much as I don't want to get lost in Berlin, I also don't want to strand in the middle of nowhere while visiting London", the pale man chuckled softly and his lover joined him in his mirth, prior to helping him out of the limousine which parked in front of their hotel like usual. It was still a magnificent building and Yami couldn't help but stare at it once more as a part of him still couldn't believe the brick was able to hide the luxury he was allowed to share with his lover.
He had come to understand why Atemu had chosen the room they currently occupied as well, as he had spend nearly a whole day inside of it last Tuesday and would do so again tomorrow. It was different than doing the same thing back at home, which was odd, as he had more than enough hours in his bedroom studying for his exams before... Yet, it still felt different, even though Yami couldn't put his finger on the reason as to why. Of course it didn't matter, although it made him a little homesick sometimes. Not to Domino, but to the apartment in New York where Atemu would work at the dining table at the same time he'd be standing in the kitchen or would be slaving away at his own desk. Although a part of him didn't want to go back, as that would mean the end to this little bubble of a corporation knowing they were lovers and them being all right with it.
"What are you thinking about?", Atemu whispered softly in his ear as he closed the door and Yami turned to his lover with his train of thoughts broken, prior to smiling reassuringly.
"Nothing, really. Just that I'm happy, currently, and that my earlier thought of today was drifting back to Halloween and us not yet having a costume", the pale man answered, which received him raised eyebrows in partial confusion, before his lover sighed softly in return. "We can't go naked, Até", Yami stated as he heard the gentle exhale of breath and Atemu chuckled while leading his beloved further into their hotel room.
"No, we can't, because I will not let anyone else see you that way. Possessively speaking, you are my treasure and my lover, which means I will protect you from any kind of leering eyes. We will find something, mon chéri, I promise", was the gentle answer while tanned hands settled themselves upon slender hips and Yami smiled as he stared at his lover at the same time his fingers played with the burgundy tie once more to gently loosen it.
"Very true and nobody else will look at you like that ever again either if I can have a say in it, Até. For now, you're mine to love and to care for", Yami answered and Atemu purred softly, prior to pressing his lips against pale ones to convey his feelings for the other man in a languid kiss. Breaking apart, he let their noses touch softly as well, while crimson eyes gleamed at him warmly at the same time his lover smiled. "Now, we should really discuss costumes", were the soft words while fingers worked on buttons and Atemu chuckled while he pulled Yami just a little closer.
"Later, I promise", he vowed once more and his beloved rumbled softly in approval, before sharing another kiss with him. Later sounded much better, after a delightful shower and those masterful hands holding him tight. Later, after a wonderful dinner with the man he loved and Yami smiled as the loving embrace around his body heated his skin while Atemu continued to kiss him. He returned the touches and the gestures; anything to be with his lover right now to make him feel at home.
/\/\/\/\/\
Closing his black umbrella gently, Yami sighed as he stepped into the spacious shopping mall to finally hide from the rain once more. It hadn't relented ever since both Atemu and him had arrived in London and even though he didn't mind rain, it would be nice if some of the weather could clear up soon. He wanted to take walks with his lover through the massive city, instead of being holed up in a hotel room with little fresh air. It made him miss home even more while he still had fun in between working on his essay as well as Atemu's schedule. The cinema had been a really nice outing last night with his beloved and he hoped to do so again when they'd be back in New York, although his skin still tingled from their experimental outing in bed last night as well. Riding Atemu to bliss was definitely the best sight he'd ever see in his whole life.
"Yami?! Up here!", came the gentle call of his name suddenly and the mentioned male looked up to the second floor of the shopping mall where Ryou was waving at him from the balcony. The sight alone made Yami grin with excitement, as he had much to tell his friend about what he had seen these past two and a half weeks, which was why he made his way passed the differently sized shops clustered together in order to get to the second floor as well. Greeting the other man with a gentle embrace, he felt just as glad to see Ryou as he had with Malik and he enjoyed that feeling as he received a tight embrace in return, prior to both men sitting down at the round bistro table.
"I'm so glad you were able to find it! How have you been? Is London and its rain suiting you?", Ryou asked with a grin on his lip, before Yami held up his hands to calm the white-haired man down. True, he was glad to have survived the Underground, but once one got used to its layout, it was actually very simple to use.
"Easy, Ryou, we have all afternoon to talk about me and the pouring rain. There is something I have to give you first, as I promised Malik this would get to you safe and sound", Yami said while he opened the bag he had taken with him to give his friend the delicately wrapped gift he had been holding onto ever since leaving Egypt. He could barely believe that was already a week-and-a-half ago, especially because time had seemed to fly by and he was glad he could finally give Ryou what the other man deserved.
"What- What's this? A gift from Malik?", the white-haired man asked softly while accepting the offered box and he caressed it gently after setting it down atop the table. Yami merely nodded in answer with a smile curling his lips, before he laid his hand atop Ryou's gently.
"Don't worry, there is nothing embarrassing inside, but you are allowed to wait with opening it until you get home. Malik just wanted to give you something so you would think of him. Especially because the two of you will remain separated for a few more months and he had found these beautiful things to gift to you. He thinks of you, every day and it doesn't matter you speak through Skype or not. He's also very glad you're nearly in the same time-zone, which makes communicating easier", the pale man said softly in reassurance and he could see Ryou contemplating on opening the gift or not. Yet, curiosity won over any other emotion apparently as his friend let his fingers work on the wrappings gently.
"He's a real gentleman when he tries and I miss him very much as well. There are times I don't want to think about the fact I still have to wait until the end of February to see him and it's barely October. So much more time has to pass, but yes, we think about each other all day... I'm sorry... I shouldn't sound so mushy", Ryou muttered while he kept his gaze low and focused upon the rectangle box in front of him. He was stroking the lid ever so gently while Yami couldn't help himself and smiled knowingly.
"Mushy or not, it's the truth and yes... whenever I'm not with Atemu, he's on my mind as well. Today I am wondering if his meeting will be all right and if visiting the corporation he has plans with will go smoothly. What will he see and experience? That's just having an interest in your boyfriend, Ryou, and there's nothing wrong with that", the pale man said and brown eyes gleamed with gratitude, before the white-haired male nodded. As he did, he slowly lifted the lid and gasped as he saw the presents inside.
Yami was glad the gifts had been strapped down as much as possible and that the blue velvet pillow had survived the travel, while Ryou stroked the glass pyramid with the grey scarab on the bottom gently. The younger male smiled broadly at the silver cartouche, prior to touching the scroll of papyrus that had also survived the travel. Then, he gently picked up the lined paper which Yami presumed was the letter Malik had said he had added into the box and for a moment, Ryou read the words. What seemed to be midway, however, he folded everything back up and closed the lid with a small smile on his face.
"Thank you, Yami, for taking this to London for me and I'll text Malik it arrived safely, but I'll read the rest later. I won't keep it dry otherwise", the white-haired man admitted and crimson eyes gleamed in understanding while Yami nodded in answer.
"We can also leave it at this and have lunch tomorrow, if you want?", he asked, just to be sure, but at his question Ryou shook his head with a new smile on his lips.
"No, there is no need to reschedule, Yami. We haven't seen each other in a long time either and I want to hear all of your stories. Besides, I'll have all the time in the world tonight, so tell me, did you like Egypt? How was Berlin? Was it any good?", Ryou asked, although Yami wasn't sure what to answer to that question at first. It was why he told of what he had seen and learned in Egypt, but had Berlin been good? The week had been packed with meetings which had left little else to do than solely be with his lover in the evenings aside from one of their lasts days until they'd flown to London. Plus... there had been their argument and if he thought back on it... he still felt guilty. But would Ryou want to hear that? Should he tell?
He decided not to, because this was his day out with Ryou and because there was nothing wrong anymore between either his lover or him. They had spend their days wonderfully after reconciling and even their flight to London had gone really well. Yes, Atemu continued to be in meetings and he continued to set aside them having to choose outfits, but that made their imagination run wild and Yami chuckled softly as he did speak of that certain aspect to Ryou. It made the white-haired man laugh while they were strolling through a semi-dry London, considering the streets were still wet while people were rushing by. Yet, it had stopped raining at last and both men were very grateful it had.
"What would you like to see as a costume though? What if he makes you go as a fairy?", Ryou teased which made Yami nibble his lip uncomfortably, before he tilted his head sideways.
"Not sure, but Atemu is a gentleman and I'm sure he wouldn't pick out anything too embarrassing. I mean, he has never embarrassed me before, not once and the truth is, I am a little afraid I'll be attracting the shame, because I just might attract the uncomfortable questions. It doesn't matter I want to go really bad, and nothing can change my mind, but the thought rears it's ugly head sometimes. Although, after seeing all the things in Egypt, I would like to go as a Pharaoh or have Atemu go as one, really. Especially after Malik showed me that secret room at his sister's museum. Then again, I'd be happy with about anything, even Peter Pan", Yami admitted, knowing full well he probably made no sense at all considering Ryou didn't know about the argument or the hacking too much, but nothing could change his mind anymore. They both deserved to have some fun after getting home and cleaning up the remaining mess the hacking had caused.
"You would look good in tights", Ryou chuckled with a grin and Yami couldn't help but join his friend's mirth while he gently shoved elbowed the white-haired man.
"I would not!", he countered, which only made the other male laugh louder.
"Someone will definitely disagree on that, so I'd prepare for tights if I were you", Ryou teased and Yami rolled his eyes slightly while he could feel the blush coming up. At the same time, he gently crossed his fingers behind his back... Just to be absolutely sure there wouldn't be any tights involved.
"Fine, fine! I'll prepare myself mentally for anything! Especially as I have no idea how this party will be like. Atemu hasn't gone to it in years, so he doesn't have any reference and I have only been to the formal dinner party. I'm pretty sure it won't be like that, but then again, who knows? Pegasus can organise about anything, really and he might even hold some fashion show... Which would only add to the shame and embarrassment truly", Yami mused while they turned a corner to walk down another long lane.
"Yes, rich people can do about anything they want, but I am positive you'll have fun. Besides, you did very well on the formal dinner, right? I don't see you doing anything wrong at the party and the way you describe it, it might even be less formal than the dinner", Ryou offered with a small smile which got brighter as Yami stopped at a chocolate shop with curiosity written all over his face.
Pushing his friend inside, the white-haired man couldn't help but laugh, even though he couldn't buy anything for his lover. Yami's facial expression was enough, however, and he watched with a smile on his lips while the crimson-eyed male complained about pink heart-shaped boxes only. "... I mean, Atemu has a sweet tooth, but I am not going to gift him something pink. Red, yes, because that is his favourite colour, but no pink...", were the muttered words which made Ryou chuckle while Yami picked out a decorative blue and green box. The bow was scrutinised a little, but clearly deemed well enough, prior to him paying for his chosen product.
"You shouldn't have pushed me inside, Ryou... Now you had to watch me buy something for Atemu", Yami apologised as they walked back outside and towards the Piccadilly station. In answer, the pale man received a shove from his friend which made him laugh sheepishly.
"No need to apologise, Yami! Of course you want to buy gifts for the man you love and yes, I know you feel guilty because Malik isn't here, but you don't need to. The both of us decided to spend our internship apart from each other and even though you are with me right now, doesn't mean you can't think of Atemu and buy him a gift. I'll be with Malik again soon as well and then my wallet will feel it big time", Ryou said confidently and Yami stared at his smaller friend while his lips curled in a slight smile. He had apparently been like an open book, especially because he had tried to not enter the store while the white-haired male had been pushing him. He did feel a little guilty, no matter it had been his friends choice to spend these months apart and crimson eyes warmed up while Ryou straightened his back a little more.
"You bet your wallet will feel it, Ryou, but I can guarantee it will be a good kind of pain. Don't you think?", Yami mused while they stepped upon the escalators leading down towards their wanted platform where they waited with the other commuters for their ride. It was busy enough with locals and tourists, but they were able to get a seat, even though Yami only had to go one stop.
"Definitely and I can't wait for February to roll around, although I am having fun with my internship and learning a whole lot more than at school. Still, when everything is done, I want to try and get a job at the restaurant I was intern at last year. It suited me far more. How about you? Are you still going to take over your grandfather's store?", Ryou asked as the subway got on its way and Yami nodded while clinging to his seat because it swayed so much. He was spoiled rotten with all the drivers, but he really hated public transport as they always brought back the accident he'd had months ago.
"Yes, I still want that very much, although there are aspect to Atemu's work I am also currently interested in. I can't really delve into the subject for privacy reasons, but I do enjoy that part of my internship a lot as well because it brings me closer to Atemu and his work. The Kame Game shop, however, has always been my dream and I will try my best to live it", Yami answered with a grin, before he got up off his seat as the subway-train neared the next stop. "It was great seeing you again, Ryou and thank you for today. Enjoy your evening", the pale man wished his friend and he received a gentle hug as the white-haired man got off his seat as well to say goodbye.
"Yes, it was a really good day, today and thank you so much for bringing Malik's gift to me. Enjoy your evening as well Yami and we'll chat soon!", Ryou called after his friend as the latter had to leave the compartment and he received an enthusiastic wave in return.
"Yes, we will! Bye Ryou!", Yami called back while he continued to wave and both grinned while they continued to do so until they were out of sight. Crimson eyes proceeded to watch the back of the train for a moment longer as well, before the pale man made his way out of the station and tried to orientate himself. It wasn't that hard, although it was raining again and he unfolded his umbrella as soon as he stepped outside. Crossing the street and taking taking the second right, he walked it down all the way to the hotel on the other side of the street. It was a little hard to miss, considering it was quite a nice building, but Yami had to admit he preferred the interior design of the hotel in Berlin.
Well, above all he would prefer the apartment back in New York, but the room in Berlin had been spacier and somehow, it made him realise how much more worth it was after spending a few days and nights cooped up in their current hotel. It made him unable to believe Atemu had willingly lock himself up in his office in the past, but with the room they had available right now, the office was nearly a better and spacier option. It had definitely made his lover grumble the photos had looked better than the end result and Yami couldn't help but smile as this hotel would never be booked again. Although Yami had to admit the bed was made from a cloud in heaven and he loved spending time with his lover on it. The thought alone made him blush while he rode the elevator to their floor, considering he felt extremely guilty to the hotel staff, but hopefully they'd be forgiven for loving each other as much as they did.
Yet, merely spending time together and cuddling was enough too and the pale man smiled while he thought back upon their morning. Meetings hadn't piled up for once, as there had been a few companies cancelling everything out of their own accord, and it had left them with quite a window of opportunity neither man had denied themselves. Yami could still feel the strong arms around his frame as they had lazily snoozed their morning away and it made his smile linger as the memory resurfaced at the same time he opened the door to their room with his key-card.
The room itself was painted with white colours and was an open floor-plan while trying to seclude the bedroom area as much as possible. The bathroom, however, was located in the small hallway where he currently stepped into, which was why the curtains had been closed well into mid-morning. He wouldn't let anyone else see the handsome body of his boyfriend, after all and Yami grinned while he wandered into the living area where his beloved was seated on the sofa with his laptop while muttering things softly. As he leaned against the wall slightly while watching his beloved, rose-red eyes turned towards the pale man prior to Atemu placing his laptop aside.
"Mon chéri", was the soft greeting and Yami smiled while he moved away from the wall and towards his lover who rose from the sofa gently.
"Até", he murmured, before his smiled broadened as the strong arms wrapped around his body in a gentle embrace. "If you need to finish work first, you know you can do so. I'll wait", Yami continued in the same soft voice as before, but he closed his eyes in bliss as he received a soft kiss to his brow.
"Yes, I will need to finish this small piece of work, but it can wait until after I greeted you properly. How was your day out?", Atemu asked at the same time Yami sat them down on the sofa while he placed his bag with chocolates atop the coffee table. He looked at the laptop pointedly and even though the tanned man muttered softly under his breath once more, Atemu did finish his work while he felt pale fingers carding through his hair.
"Finish it, Até, so that we may go out for dinner and spend our evening together. After all, there are no meetings tonight, thank god, and I'd like to know how your day was as well. My day was really good and I did enjoy spending it with Ryou very much. Plus, I got something for you", Yami answered, although he didn't get the bag off the table. Especially not when rose-red eyes gleamed in curiosity while they glanced from the bag to him and back towards the screen again. It merely prompted the pale man to continue carding through his lover's hair while softly kissing the tanned cheek with affection.
"Mon chéri, you are distracting me", Atemu whispered teasingly with a chuckle, which was returned by a soft purr while Yami pulled back and merely smiled lovingly. The tanned man sighed softly in regret, before he let his fingers do their work as quickly as possible, especially as his lover moved to sit closer to his side and Atemu rumbled softly at the tender display of wanting to be near him. "Did something happen while you were out with Ryou?", he couldn't help but ask while Yami laid his head atop his lover's broad shoulder.
"No... but I was once again faced with the fact I am very glad I can be with you. Ryou and Malik are separated from one another and it doesn't matter it was their own choice as they wanted to follow different internships, but it still sucks. Which is why I am very glad I can be with you and I have suddenly come to realise I wasn't appreciating that enough. Which is why I'd like to sit here with you while you finish your work... is that all right?", Yami asked while he sorted through his feelings. He knew he was damn lucky and that alone brought a smile to his lips at the same time he sighed in relief when Atemu pulled him a little closer.
"You can stay right where you are, mon chéri. I wouldn't want it any other way", the tanned man answered in return and he smiled while leaning back against the sofa. With his lover at his side he continued to read the last of his sorted reports for that day and Atemu relished the fact he could feel Yami leaning against him comfortably. A pale hand laid on his lower arm gently and would occasionally caress it, but other than that, the pale man was simply present without distracting him. It was enjoyable and it was why he couldn't wait to get back to New York, because there was a home he'd wished to have these feelings in. Not an hotel room far away, although the feeling was new to Atemu, as he had never really had a 'home' to return to before. Still, embraced the emotions with both hands while knowing everything would be all right if he did and he kissed Yami tenderly on his brow, prior to shifting the screen of his laptop to a website with outfits.
"I promised", he whispered softly afterwards and pale lips curled themselves in a smile while they took their time to just be together in a loving cuddle for the remainder of their evening.
/\/\/\/\/\
Thank you all for reading and if you have the time, please leave a review! Both Atemu and Yami are starting to feel homesick and Yami was feeling guilty again, but that makes for a good mood to have extra loving cuddles. See you all in the next chapter with London as its main character lol ;)
Last note: Brandenburger Tor is the official German name for the Brandenburg Gate (as I am sure you have guessed by now). I found it fitting for the title.