Chapter 42
Mistakes, Lessons, and Happiness
Author's note: just to not get in trouble, I should remind everyone that I don't own anything YuGiOh. I just own my characters and Dark Mage of the Sea owns hers.
When a sentence is **like this**, it's sign language. When a sentence is ~like this~, it's phoenix speech.
Thank you, Dark Mage of the Sea, my coauthor and best friend.
Two weeks before Tiki and Merina would move to New York, Atem and Tima went to the Game Shop to get some more of their things. They started to head for the guest room but were distracted by seeing almost all their Domino High friends in the living room. They greeted everyone and Atem asked, "What's going on?"
Yugi smiled, scratching a spot on Tarra's neck. "Tiki and Kaiba are picking up Merina. We're finally going to see her graduation gift."
Intrigued and excited to see Merina, the couple took a couple of seats. Tima teased, "She's been almost as absent as us."
Yugi stretched his back a little before sitting himself. "I'm just glad that engine didn't hurt her or her dad."
Everyone agreed. Looking around, Tima asked, "Where are the Seien girls?"
Yugi explained, "Tiki offered to pick them up as well but they're all busy with other things."
Tima accepted that answer. Looking at her watch, Tea asked Yugi, "We're not going to be late, are we?"
Yugi smiled his puppy-like smile. "No, we'll make our reservations."
Atem's ear twitched. "Reservations?"
Yugi blushed. "Tea and I have dinner reservations tonight. See…it's our one year anniversary."
Atem smirked. "Has it been a year? Congratulations!"
Joey went over and put Yugi in a headlock. "You lucky dog!"
Yugi laughed and tried to get out of Joey's headlock. As the more he did that, the more Joey and Tristan teased him. The girls and phoenixes smiled but Tima and Tarra noticed Tea kept peeking at Atem. Tima mentally sighed and locked eyes on Tarra. She paused, seeing the anger in the phoenix's eyes. She subtly shook her head and mouthed, "Don't."
Tarra looked at Tima but looked at Tea and puffed up. Luckily, before she could do anything, Tiki and Kaiba came into the living room. Seconds later, Itami and Torru flew in and joined Tarra and Earthzina on Tarra's bird stand. The phoenixes hopped over to their friends as Tiki gestured to the door like a presenter on TV. "Look who we have here!"
Kaiba amusingly rolled his eyes and smirked as a familiar voice spoke out: "Tiki, I'm not a prize to be shown off."
With that, Merina stepped in, wearing a black tube-top, short jean jacket, jeans, and a red-orb pendant with a fire insignia engraved on it. She grinned and held up her hand. "Yo."
Grinning, Joey went over and put Merina in a headlock. "Hey! Where you been, blondie?"
Tiki giggled. "Don't strangle her, Joey."
Merina chuckled. "He wishes."
When Joey let her go, the three took seats around the room with Kaiba remaining standing. Merina (everyone but Yugi and Tea noticed) sat in a position where she could not look Tea. Tristan was the first to speak. "So where have you been? We haven't seen you since graduation."
Merina smirked. "You try both arranging for a move to New York for college and just getting around without a car." She turned to Kaiba. "Thanks for picking me up, by the way."
Kaiba nodded as Joey perked up. "Your car's still busted? What's wrong with it?"
Kaiba smirked. "What do you know? The monkey's not a greased one."
Tiki covered her mouth to hide her giggles. Joey glared and was about to yell when Tima spoke first. "So, Merina! Show us the graduation gift you left us for."
Merina smirked with pride and took off her jacket. She then turned around and everyone's eyes shone. On her right shoulder bone was a tribal-style scorpion. Her upper shoulder had the stinger and a rose; the rose's thorny stem was tangled in the scorpion's right legs and left claw. Joey and Tristan said at the same time, "Awesome!"
Yugi smiled. "I like it! How did you choose it?"
Merina turned around, trying to repress her blush. "It goes with my dad's nickname for me and his scorpion tattoo on his back."
Tristan pointed out, "That explains what he meant by his taking all day."
Atem asked, "What's your nickname?"
Merina smiled. "Desert Rose."
Tea smiled. "That's so sweet!"
Yugi agreed. "Like father, like daughter!"
Tea looked at Yugi before turning back to Merina. She looked a little hesitant and said with an almost strained voice, "Though…have you really thought this out? I mean…once you get a tattoo…it's permanent."
Yugi noticed Tea's tone, as if she was trying not to insult Merina, and rubbed her back to make her feel better. The others, however, noticed the strained voice but also noted the backhanded comment. Merina looked a little annoyed and bit her lip, as if trying to keep herself from saying something bad. Noticing this, Torru flew over to her shoulder and nuzzled her head. Caressing his chest, Merina explained, "I thought long and hard about this, especially the design."
That got Joey's attention. "It's your own design?"
Merina nodded, making Tristan smirk. "That makes it even cooler."
Merina smirked as Kaiba pointed out, "Hearing that…it seems to me you have another reason for the design."
Merina's smirk grew. "As always, right on the money, Kaiba. You're right: on my father's side, my heritage dates back to legendary ancient warriors called Scorpion Warriors. Getting a scorpion tattoo was and is proof that you are ready to take up the sword and become a true warrior. When I graduated, it became my turn to take up the sword of adulthood and head out on my own as a warrior."
Atem and Tima smiled a secret smile between them, remembering Merina of the Scorpion Clan. As Tristan asked to look at it again, Tea looked at her watch and stood up, straightening her clothes. "Sorry, guys, but I need to get going. Gotta get ready for our date."
She stroked Yugi's hair, making him smile with delight. Merina rolled her eyes, an action only Tima noticed. Getting an idea, she got up as well. "Merina, help me get some snacks."
Merina nodded as Tea left. Once the two were out of the living room, Merina let out a little but annoyed groan. "I can't stand that woman…"
Tima nodded in understanding. "I can see that. By the way, is that perhaps a small reason why you've been away from us?"
Merina gave her a look. "Come on, Tima. I'm not that sniveling little girl who first transferred to Domino High. I can handle her"
Tima pointed out, "I meant their relationship."
As they reached the kitchen, Merina started to look through the fridge. "I know what you meant. It's just…it's just annoying to see Tea so disappointed and Yugi so…so…"
"Clueless? Yeah, I know. But that's Yugi: he's always been blindly devoted."
Merina smiled. "Yeah…that's one of things I like about him." She then blushed. "Uh…that is…I mean…"
Tima smiled and got out some glasses. "It's all right, I've known for some time. You're just like your ancestor, who was also named Merina. She and my son Heba were in love but…tragedy got in the way." She took a moment to remember her son before smiling at Merina. "Well, nonetheless, keep the faith. He might come around."
Merina admitted, "Even if he doesn't, I just don't want him to get hurt, you know? Tea's been in love with Atem for a long time and…it just seemed too much of a coincidence that, as soon as he leaves, she starts paying attention to Yugi's feelings. Plus, what's worse is he's blind to how unsatisfied she is with what she's giving her."
That caught Tima's attention. "How so?"
Merina leaned against the fridge and started to think. "Well…it's like…she wants him to be passionate but rough, strong but soft…almost dominating at times. Yugi has his own way of being romantic but I've noticed that Tea has, on more than one occasion, subtly called it childish. He's been bending over backwards to try and give her what she wants. But what really concerns me is the man he's trying to be is not who he really is. What especially pisses me off is…she doesn't seem to be satisfied with his best."
Tima listened as she poured the drinks. Once Merina went quiet, the brunette said, "Well, it's really none of our business. If it'll make you feel better, I'll keep my eye out when I'm around them to make sure she doesn't hurt him too much."
"Thanks…and keep an eye on me. I don't want to blow up on her…not in front of our friends, that is."
Tima chuckled. "If you need to blow up on her, I'll send you two into a private room."
Merina laughed and thanked her. As they continued to get the snacks ready, they did not know that Yugi was outside the door and had heard the entire conversation. 'No…they're wrong. Tea loves me…I know it!'
Before he could confront them, Tarra flew up to Yugi's shoulder. ~There you are. I was wondering where you disappeared to.~ She saw the look on his face. ~What's wrong? You have a cloud brewing in your head.~
Yugi started to head back but slow enough to talk. "Don't worry about it. Tarra…about tonight…"
Tarra gave him a look. ~I don't like that tone you're taking.~
Yugi scratched the back of his head. "Um…Tea asked…if you could stay home…so it could be…just the two of us…for our anniversary." Tarra looked like someone had cut her so he added, "I can have Tima and Atem stay here with you or you can even spend the night with them. I'm sorry but…"
Tarra cut him off in a sharp tone. ~No, it's fine. Have fun tonight.~
Before he could answer her, she flew back to the living room.
To Yugi's luck, Tima and Atem agreed to stay the night because their apartment building's pipes burst in the basement and had to be replaced, which meant the water was turned off. They spent most of the night trying to cheer up Tarra, who was very upset at Yugi for leaving her behind. What made the phoenix even more upset is that Yugi did not return that night. Early the next morning, he snuck in, his face red and his shoulders slumped. He quietly took off his shoes and started to head towards the stairs. "You're home late."
Yugi froze, turning even redder. He slowly turned around to see Atem, leaning against the kitchen's doorframe. Yugi could not tell what Atem was thinking as the elder's face was expressionless; Yugi did, however, recognize it as the look Atem had when he was displeased with something. "Uh…Atem…you're up early."
Atem continued to look at him with his expressionless face. "I'm making breakfast." His eyes lowered to Yugi's heavily-marked neck. "Seems like you need some after quite the wild night, huh?"
Blushing so red he was almost glowing, Yugi covered his neck and braced himself for Atem's teasing. But things went quiet. Yugi looked up and saw Atem heading back to the kitchen. "Atem…?"
Atem paused but did not turn around. "Yugi…Tarra's duty as a phoenix is to always be there for her guardian, especially if there's a chance of danger." He looked over his shoulder at Yugi. "Tarra was worried sick over you last night. It took me and Tima hours to calm her enough to sleep. Heed this warning, Yugi: do not take Tarra so lightly."
Feeling a little guilty, Yugi slightly nodded. "Noted." He waited for Atem to say more but, sensing Atem had said his piece, turned. "Well…I'm going to get some rest. Let me know when breakfast is ready."
Hearing that, Atem could not help but say, "Worked up an appetite last night?"
Yugi froze for a split second before bolting upstairs. On the way to his room, he ran into Tiki. She had the same expressionless look as she passed him to go downstairs. Yugi quickly asked, "Did you tell Mom?"
Tiki continued to walk but answered. "Next time you want to lie to Mom and Grandpa about spending the night with Joey, do it yourself. I'm not your messenger."
Yugi's eyes widened. He tried to get her attention but she continued downstairs, giving him the cold shoulder. He wanted to go after her but was too exhausted. Instead, he went to his room and collapsed on his bed. In his exhaustion, he did not noticed Tarra in the room, looking at him with annoyance in her eyes.
A few hours later, Tima decided to stay at the Game Shop as she had the day off, Atem had to work with Hawkins, and she did not know how long the apartment building would be without water. Yugi and Tiki were working with her and Solomon but there was a tension in the air between the siblings and Tarra, who was on her usual perch. Tima could tell Tarra was refusing to look at Yugi and Tiki was giving him the cold shoulder. Tima mentally shook her head. 'This is unbearable. I know Atem told me what he thinks happened but…I never expected this response.'
As the two young women began stocking, Solomon turned to Yugi. "Yugi, can you get more Duel Monster cards from the back?"
Yugi nodded and left. Hearing this, Tima got an idea. "Tiki, looks like we're a little short on fighting games. Can you get some more please?"
Tiki nodded and left. Reaching the back, she saw Yugi getting the Duel Monster cards. She went to get the fighting games as Yugi said, "Come on, talk to me."
Before she could stop herself, she asked, "Why, need another favor?"
Yugi blushed. "You're starting to sound like Kaiba. Besides, it's not like the date went as planed…" he then murmured to himself, "…and it ended badly, anyway."
Tiki turned her head to hide her smirk of satisfaction before looking back at her brother. Looking at his collar, she smirked a little wider. "Too bad. Judging by the size of your collar, I would say it went really well."
Yugi touched his collar. "You really are sounding like Kaiba. Besides, I would have covered for you if you wanted to spend the night with him."
Tiki frowned at him. "Are you trying to say I would lie behind Mom and Grandpa's backs? If so, you are truly mistaken!"
Yugi's eyes widened and he quickly shook his head. "No! No, I didn't mean it like that!"
"Then what did you mean?!"
Yugi opened his mouth but closed it again. He felt a rush of insecurities come over him, making him lower his head. Seeing this, Tiki sighed. "I'm sorry I snapped at you."
Yugi shook his head. "No…I should be apologizing to you. I know how much you hate to lie; I shouldn't have asked you to do that for me."
"It's not just the lying, Yugi. You…" she sighed, "…you've changed. Granted, I am glad you're more outspoken and speak your mind more. But…at the same time…I wish you knew exactly what you were doing."
For some reason Yugi did not understand, he remembered the talk he overheard between Tima and Merina the day before. That made him snap, "I know what I'm doing! I love Tea!"
Tiki did not expect him to understand what she was implying but decided to not look too much into it. "I'm not denying that. You've been in love with her since we were six."
"And I know she loves me."
"HA!"
Tiki quickly covered her mouth with her hand, her eyes very wide. Yugi looked at her, both shocked and hurt. "What was that?"
"…A laugh?"
"Yes but what were you laughing about? You don't think Tea loves me?"
Tiki started to squirm. "Do we really have to have this talk?"
"You brought it up."
"I'm retracting it."
"Too late."
"Yugi…"
Yugi grew angrier by the second. "You're out of your mind if you think otherwise! She loves me!"
Before she could stop herself, Tiki blurted out, "Get a grip! She doesn't love you; she loves Atem!"
Both froze. Tiki grimaced, regretting what she said. Yugi stared at her for a moment before uttering the only words he could think of: "…you're crazy."
While Tiki did not mean to blurt out those words, she knew she had to continue. "Yugi…you know I'm right. I think…you've even known for some time."
Yugi shook his head. "That's not true! Tea has told me she loves me!"
Tiki reached for her brother. "Yugi…I think she's just telling you what you want to hear!"
Yugi continued to shake his head and his eyes started to fill with tears. "No! That's not true!"
Before Tiki could say anything else, Yugi ran out of the room. She went outside the room in time to hear him slam his bedroom door. Solomon and Tima came over, having heard the yells. Solomon asked, "What happened?"
Tima saw the guilty look on Tiki's face. "Tiki, you okay?"
Tiki's eyes lowered. "I think…I said too much."
Yugi paced back and forth, very frustrated. Having flown in from the window, Tarra watched him from her perch and listened to him explain the fight he just had with Tiki. "Can you believe that?! She think Tea only says she loves me because it's what I want to hear! That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard!" Pausing his pacing, he looked at his phoenix. "You believe me, right?"
Tarra took a minute to consider her answer. She was still upset about being left behind the night before but she could tell how angry Yugi was. Not wanting to make him even more upset, she decided to "say," ~Whatever my Guardian thinks…~
Yugi blinked. "Thanks…I think."
Deciding to not add anything to that conversation, Tarra went to his shoulder and nuzzled her face. Feeling this, he felt a little better. "I'm sorry I worried you."
Tarra's eyes sparkled. ~It's all right.~ She then looked at him. ~Is there anything else weighing on your mind? It's almost like…there's a thorn that's bothering you.~
Remembering what happened last night, Yugi quickly said, "I don't want to talk about it."
Tarra blinked in surprise but decided to not push the issue.
The following week was awkward for Yugi. He did go on a few dates with Tea but his fight with Tiki and what happened the night of their anniversary haunted him. Tea felt just as awkward but blamed it on her move to New York for college. The awkwardness continued even as she left for New York. Yugi told her he would be faithful to her while she was away and tried to keep that thought going. Two days later, however, Yugi was helping Tiki pack (she and Merina were leaving the following week) when his cell phone rang. Seeing it was Tea, he lit up and answered it. "Hi, Tea!"
His eyes fell and his smile melted away. "What do you mean, 'we need to talk'? Did something happen? Are you okay?"
Tiki looked up and watched as Yugi's eyes widened. "No…tell me you're joking…right? This has…to be some sort of joke!"
Tea continued to talk but Yugi did not hear a word. He did not move even when Tea hung up. He continued to stand in shock as the phone dropped to the floor. Tiki managed to catch it before looking up at him. "Yugi…are you all right?"
Yugi did not answer; instead, he lowered his head until his eyes were shadowed. Tiki stood up and reached for him but he silently left her room without taking his phone. She wanted to go after him but heard his phone ding. Curiosity getting to her, Tiki looked at the text message from Tea.
Again, I am really sorry to tell you over the phone. That is my fault; I shouldn't have waited this long. But I meant what I said about wanting to stay friends. If you need time, I understand.
Tiki's eyes slightly widened. "Tea…you broke up with him over the phone? I can't believe you…"
In his room, Yugi was curled up in his bed. His heart was still breaking; he was too hurt by Tea breaking up with him to even be upset by how she broke up with him. This was the girl he had feelings for since he first met her, his closest friend, and someone who had been there for him and Tiki for years; to have it end like this…tears formed in his eyes, making him turn his face into his pillow. He stayed still for a minute until he heard a coo and felt a feathery head nuzzle his head. Sniffling, he said in a sad voice, "Tarra…please…no…I just…want to be alone…"
Tarra pulled her head back but stayed next to him and added, ~I'm here if you need me.~
Yugi did not response.
Solomon had enough. Yugi had not left his room for the past two days. While Tarra did bring him food through the window and would update Solomon, the old man wanted the teenager out of his room. He called Atem over, thinking he could help Yugi (Tima was working). Atem asked, "Got any ideas how to get him out?"
Tiki shrugged. "His door is locked and there's no key."
Hearing that, Atem got an idea. "Tiki, look up a video on how to pick a door. Make sure it's for a door without a keyhole."
Embarrassed that she had not thought of that, Tiki went to her laptop and found a video. Atem watched it a few times before he was confident he got it. Getting a playing card, he went to Yugi's room and started to work on the door. He worked for a solid minute before the door opened from the inside. "You can come in…"
Solomon gently opened the door enough, allowing the three to get a good look at him. The sight of Yugi broke their hearts. He looked exhausted with bags under his eyes and his clothes and hair were messy. What was really sad to them was how dull Yugi's eyes looked; he looked half-alive. No one knew what to say as Yugi went back to his bed, keeping himself in the shadow. Tarra stayed on her perch, wanting to give her guardian space but still looking concerned. Tiki went in first, sitting next to him and hugging him. "Yugi, talk to us." After a minute of silence, she added, "You'll be okay."
Yugi murmured, "I wish I could believe you…"
Atem and Solomon joined them. Atem nodded. "Tiki's right. You'll see: there's someone better out there for you."
Yugi's head stayed lowered but his eyes slightly lifted. "You sure…?"
Solomon nodded. "You just need to get out there and find her."
The three smiled but Yugi's eyes lowered again. He murmured, "I'm not good enough…"
Tiki and Atem heard him. Tiki wanted to comfort him but Atem's fatherly instincts took over. "Solomon, Tiki, can you please give me and Yugi some privacy?"
Tiki hesitated but Solomon saw the look in Atem's eyes and nodded. "We'll be downstairs if you need us."
Taking his granddaughter's hand, he led her downstairs. Once they were alone, Atem sat next to Yugi. "Talk to me." Yugi hesitated so Atem rubbed his friend's back. "I'm here for you, Yugi…Aibou."
He thought hearing the old nickname would help. It did: Yugi took a deep breath and sighed. "I just don't…don't think I'm worthy…"
Atem blinked in surprise. "Not worthy? Yugi, this isn't like you. Even when you wished for friends on the Millennium Puzzle, you never downgraded yourself like this."
Yugi lowered his head a little. "That was then…this…this is different."
Atem moved in front of Yugi. "And what makes it different? So this relationship failed. That happens all the time; that doesn't mean you should give up. Don't forget: I know you better than anyone alive…and you're not one to give up on anything."
Yugi's voice lowered, "But I feel I should…"
"But why? This is not the end of the world—"
Yugi barked, "It's what she said!"
He covered his mouth, blushing very red. Atem blinked in surprise. "On the phone?"
Yugi looked away. "No…can we drop this?"
Atem's look went firm. "No. Talking about this is the first step. Now what did she say?"
Yugi looked away, looking uncomfortable. But he did not look like he would not answer so Atem continued, "Was it that night?" Yugi curled up and his blush deepened. "What did she say?"
Yugi's blush deepened even more and his eyes squeezed shut. "Oh…"
Atem's face scrunched with confusion. He wanted to ask for an explanation when Yugi answered with one movement: his legs closed a little. Seeing this, Atem understood. "She didn't…"
Opening his eyes a little, Yugi did not speak but his silence spoke volumes. He continued to remember the single word, the slip she accidentally uttered during their intimate moment. Atem frowned. 'It's one thing to insult a man's pride…but to say it then…'
Atem touched his friend's knee. "Listen to me: don't let what she said shake you up. All that shows is that she's not the one."
Yugi sniffled as tears started to fall. "But…I've been in love with her since I was a child. All that time…I…"
The tears continued to fall and his hands clenched to fists. Atem saw this and said, "Let it out, Yugi…"
Hearing that, the tears fell even faster. "Was I not good enough…? Did I not meet her expectations?" He looked up at Atem. "I was ready to move heaven and earth for her! All I wanted was to show her how I was—AM strong enough to be her shield! Someone she can love! Where did I go wrong?!"
Once again feeling a fatherly instinct, Atem pulled Yugi into a hug. Startled, Yugi tried to pull away but Atem tightened his grip. "It's not your fault. It's all hers: she was petty and, frankly, pathetic. If she's going to say such a thing about you, she's not worth your time."
Yugi sniffled. "But…"
Atem cut him off. "Don't try and defend her. I don't care if it was intentional or a slip of the tongue: a single mistake can crumble a mountain. You need to move on."
Yugi lowered his head a little, still upset. "But…I don't think…"
Atem then got an idea. "Well, you're not going to, sitting in this room. You need a distraction and the museum is just the place for that."
Yugi shook his head. "No, thank you."
Atem pulled back to reveal a smirk. "Who said I was giving you an option?"
Before Yugi could protest, Atem got up and went to the closet, eventually tossing clothes at Yugi. While doing so, he looked at Tarra. 'Do me a favor: contact Torru. Have Merina meet us at the museum.'
Tarra's eyes sparkled and she flew out the window. Atem continued to look through the closet, tossing more clothes. As Yugi rubbed his eyes, Atem poked his head out. "Tima and I leave for one year and you still don't develop a sense of fashion?"
Yugi blushed deeply. "I-I have one! I just…don't like to dress flashy like you do."
Atem rolled his eyes and kept looking through the closet. "It's not about being flashy…" he then saw a certain outfit and smirked, "…it's about impressing."
Before Yugi could say another word, Atem took the outfit, grabbed the younger male, and took him to the bathroom. He then shoved Yugi in with the outfit. "Now get showered up. We're leaving as soon as you're ready."
Yugi looked down at the outfit and blushed once again. It was jeans, a lavender long-sleeve shirt, and a purple vest. What made him blush was the long-sleeve shirt had lost the top button, which would expose part of his chest. He wanted to protest but assumed Atem would not take no for an answer.
20 minutes later, Yugi came out of the bathroom, wearing the outfit. He was still bright red. "I-I don't know, Atem…"
Atem grinned. "What are you talking about? It looks perfect on you."
Yugi opened his mouth to protest but Atem did not give him a chance to talk. He pulled Yugi outside and took him to the museum. Neither Tiki nor Solomon stopped them: Atem had told them his plan.
Yugi looked around the museum. "So…what are we going to do?"
Atem led him to the Egyptian wing. "I have a prayer scroll I need to translate. You can help by taking notes."
"Did Professor Hawkins agree to this?"
Atem nodded. "He's fine with it."
Yugi was suspicious. But his suspicious thoughts changed when he saw who was in front of the prayer scroll. She was dressed in a short, black dress covered in white polka-dots; its spaghetti-straps crisscrossed in the back, showing off her back and tattoo. She even accessorized with fingerless black gloves, black sandal heels, and a red belt. Atem smirked. "Hm…fancy seeing Merina here. Why don't you go talk to her?"
Yugi's eyes widened. "What?! Atem! I don't think that's a good idea and—!"
Atem smirked and pushed Yugi towards her. "I'll get my notes from the back. Wait for me here."
Yugi protested, "Wait—!"
Atem was gone. Yugi looked at Merina, who had turned around from the noise. "Yugi?"
Yugi blushed as he looked at her dress. He could not help but noticed how it showed off her cleavage. He blushed deeper and looked away. As he swallowed the dry lump in his throat, he heard her ask, "What are you doing here?"
Yugi peeked at her. He did not understand why he felt so awkward about her. Part of him wondered if it was because of the conversation he overheard. The other part of him felt a little different. Trying to get his mind off his feelings, he explained, "I…I, uh…Atem dragged me here to help…translate the prayer scroll…by taking notes so…"
Hearing that, Merina looked a little annoyed. "Really, Tarra? She told me through Torru that Atem needed help with taking notes as well. What a coincidence."
Yugi looked just as annoyed. 'Atem set us up.' Taking a deep breath, he joined her side and looked at the scroll. "Is this what we're helping with?"
Merina looked at the scroll. "I think so. It's the only one in the wing."
They looked at the scroll for a moment. Feeling awkward, Yugi asked, "Looking forward to New York?"
Merina nodded. "Yes, I—"
Yugi blurted out, "She dumped me."
Merina blinked in surprise. Once she registered what he said, his eyes widened. "Really? I'm sorry."
Yugi nodded. "Yeah…two days ago." He lowered his head. "She called me from New York and…well…"
Merina frowned, looking at his depressed state. 'The nerve of her to dump over the phone instead of face to face before going to New York. That's a cowardly move.'
Seeing him still depressed, her heart ached for him. Not wanting to see him like this, she reached out and took his hand. His head snapped up in surprise. "Meri-Merina!"
Merina smiled. "C'mon, Yugi! Let's get outta here and have fun! You look like you need it!"
Yugi blinked in surprise. "But…what about Atem?"
Just then, Atem came out from around the corner. It was hard to tell if he had just gotten back or listened to the whole conversation. "It's all right. Go and have fun."
Yugi still hesitated. "Don't you need help?"
Atem grinned. "I can read it without a guide, one of the few who can. Go have fun."
Yugi gave Atem a look as Merina smiled at him. "Come on. Let's go have fun."
As she took him outside, Yugi agreed. 'Yes…this is what I need.'
With Torru and Tarra following from above, Yugi and Merina had a really fun day. They started with getting some food; their conversations over burgers helped Yugi come back out of his shell. Once he started to feel more like himself, they went to the arcade and saw a movie together. During some down time, he was approached by some duelists who recognized him and asked to duel him. Falling back into how Tea was during their dates, he tried to politely turn them down. To his surprise, though, Merina told him to duel and even encouraged him to do so. Once Tarra got his deck and Duel Disk, he took on the opponents. As the King of Games, he won all the duels; his opponent were too excited to have dueled him at all to be disappointed at losing. He did enjoy the duels but he enjoyed Merina's cheers even more.
As the sun started to set, Yugi and Merina were walking around with their phoenixes on their shoulders. Yugi looked at Merina. "So…what shall we do to end the night?"
Merina thought for a moment and got a smirk. "I have an idea…if you'll allow me."
Yugi blinked out of curiosity and nodded.
Minutes later, they were at a karaoke bar, set up in a nice room with snacks and drinks. They even managed to sneak Tarra and Torru in. As Yugi sat on the couch, he watched Merina perform a song. Even in the dim lights, he could tell how much fun she was having. He smiled at her and thought, 'This is so strange…I don't remember having this much fun when I was out with Tea. But, with Merina…she definitely knows how to have a good time…and her singing is amazing.'
Tarra looked at Yugi and her eyes shined with happiness. 'You're becoming yourself again, Yugi.'
A few hours later, Yugi walked Merina home. Merina smiled. "I had a lot of fun today."
Yugi nodded with a smile. "So did I. This…I needed this day."
Merina smiled. "I'm glad to hear that."
Yugi chuckled. "I gotta thank Atem for tricking us."
Merina chuckled as well. As they arrived at her house, she looked at him. "Well…"
Yugi looked at her. "You're leaving with Tiki, right?" She nodded. "I'm…going to miss you."
Merina blushed and decided not to hide it this time. "I'm going to miss you too."
Taking a deep breath, she leaned over and kissed his cheek. He blushed deeply. "Merina…"
Merina smiled and whispered, "A very close friend of ours told me to never give up hope. You shouldn't either."
Yugi looked at her. Seeing the smile on her face, he felt a warm sensation in his heart. She bid him goodnight and headed inside with Torru. Yugi took a minute, looking at the door. The longer he looked, the wider his smile go. Flying down to his shoulder, Tarra nuzzled Yugi's head. ~How you feeling, Yugi?~
Yugi caressed her chest feathers. "Good…let's go home."
Tarra's eyes sparkled and gave a happy chirp.
A few nights later, Yugi was lying in bed. He was trying to sleep but failing. His mind was fixated on the fact that, in two days, Tiki and Merina would move to New York for college. While he knew he would miss his sister, he also knew he would miss Merina even more. The more he thought about her, the warmer he felt. The warmth grew whenever he thought about the kiss she gave him when they spent the day together. Groaning, he got up and sat at his desk, looking out the window. Having been woken up when he got up, Tarra looked up from her pillow. ~Yugi…?~
Yugi looked at the phoenix. "Sorry, didn't mean to wake you."
Tarra sat up and stretched her wings. ~It's okay. You want to talk?~
Yugi smiled and shook his head. "I think this is something I need to work out on my own."
Tarra rolled her eyes, assuming. ~You're not still hung up on her, are you?~ Yugi shook his head and Tarra sensed he was telling the truth. ~So what's going on? Some friend trouble or another girl trouble or—?~
"She's not a rebound."
Tarra blinked. ~Who?~ Her eyes sparkled. ~Merina?~
Yugi blushed and looked away. But he did nod. Tarra's eyes sparkled as Yugi admitted, "I've been…thinking about her a lot…especially during those two days. I am…feeling something. But…I can't…I care too much to hurt her."
~What are you talking about?~
Yugi propped his head up with his hand. "I'm saying…I don't want her to think…she's just a rebound girl."
Understanding, Tarra flew over the desk and head-bopped him. Yugi leaned into her head, scratching her head. After a moment, she pulled back. ~What does your heart tell you?~
Yugi paused. "I…I don't know."
~Well, just talk it over with me. Maybe it'll make things a little clearer.~
Yugi nodded. "Well…I want to get an answer to this before she leaves in two days. But…what if I don't?"
Tarra ruffled her feathers, as if shrugging. ~I think she'll wait for you. If it comes down to calling and telling her over the phone…~
Yugi shook his head. "No, that's tacky."
Tarra accepted and agreed. ~Right now, to be honest, you should sleep. Staying up this late won't help.~ She then thought of something. ~And remember Tiki wants you to go shopping with her tomorrow. You can talk while you shop.~
Yugi thought for a moment and nodded. "Yeah…you're right. Thanks, Tarra."
Tarra nuzzled his head, which earned her a head scratch.
In the department store, Yugi was helping Tiki find new dresses and skirts for New York. While she looked around, he got lost in his thoughts. He continued to think about Merina and what his heart feeling. He was so deep in his thoughts, he did not notice Tiki talking to him until she tapped his shoulder. "Come back to Earth, Yugi."
Yugi blinked. "What? Oh, sorry, Tiki."
Tiki tilted her head. "You okay? You've pretty spaced out."
Yugi shrugged. "Got a lot on my mind."
"Well, what's up? Maybe I can help you."
As Tiki started to go through some skirts, Yugi considered what he wanted to talk about. At first, he tried to say, "We can wait until you're finished."
Tiki held up a skirt to get a better view of it. "We can shop and talk. So spill it."
Yugi took a deep breath. "Well…what did you do when you realized you had feelings for Kaiba?"
Tiki blinked. "What do you mean?"
Yugi shrugged. "How did you react? Did you understand them?"
Tiki shook her head. "Not at all. In the beginning, I just saw what was on the surface."
"So…what did you do?"
She started to remember. "I started to watch him, wanting to see the real him."
"Why?"
"Well…I had a feeling, you know? That there was more to him than what was on the surface."
She thought back to everything she learned when they were in the virtual world. Remembering her promise to never tell, she continued. "I followed my feelings and I came out learning more about him. Because I trusted my feelings for him, it helped ease any confusion I have."
Yugi scratched the back of his head. "I see…"
Tiki smirked. "So use that technique to get with Merina."
Yugi froze with a red face. "How did you…?!" He saw the look on her face and sulked. "Is it that obvious?"
Tiki nodded. "Oh yeah. You wear your emotions on your sleeve or your face, as the case may be. If you don't mind me saying, I think you're making a bigger deal than it really is."
Yugi protested, "I just don't want her to be the rebound girl."
"But she isn't."
"How do you know?"
"For one thing, your relationship with Tea was kind of one-sided."
Yugi sulked a little. "Would you mind not being blunt? You're just dating Kaiba; no need to talk like him."
Tiki giggled. "Then let me get to the point. It's been about a week since she dumped you, right? If Merina was truly the rebound girl, you would have gotten with her the second you became single. But you took your time and thought about it."
Yugi opened his mouth to protest but he stopped. He thought about what Tiki said and realized she was right. With that thought, however, he thought of something else that depressed him. "What am I going to do? You two are leaving tomorrow. What if…what if I'm not ready?"
Tiki smiled. "How much do you care about her, Yugi?"
Yugi looked at Tiki. "I…really care for her. When I was…alone those two days, I couldn't stop thinking about her. She helped me when I was depressed. In fact…I never told you this but, if I hadn't talked to her that night, I'm not sure I would have been able to face Atem in the Ceremonial Duel."
Tiki smiled wider. "Then I suggest that you just talk to her."
The next morning, the family was running around, trying to get everything together. They knew Scipio was going to pick up Tiki to take her and Merina to the airport. While Yugi was helping Tiki, he was also worried about how to talk to Merina before she got on the plane. Helping Tiki work on her carry-on, he asked, "Why isn't Kaiba taking you?"
Getting a couple books, Tiki explained, "KaibaCorp is opening a new branch in Korea. But, since he'll be in New York in a couple weeks, he said Merina and I could use his private plane." Putting the books in, she looked in her back. "Hm…I got music…books…snacks…that should be enough for the next 13 hours."
Yugi nodded. "Good…"
Tiki looked at her brother and smirked. "You want to join us?"
Yugi blinked. "What?"
Tiki smirked. "How else are you going to confess your feelings to Merina?"
Yugi blushed deeply as a horn honked outside. Hearing it, Tiki got her carry-on bag. "Can you get my main bag, please?"
Yugi nodded and, grabbing the bag, followed his sister downstairs. Once downstairs, Tiki was showered with hugs and kisses from Mrs. Mutou and Solomon, wishing her luck and telling her to call them when she landed. While she continued her goodbye, Yugi managed to tell their family he was taking the girls to the airport with Scipio and headed outside with the suitcase. He found Scipio and Merina getting out of their rental car. Torru landed on the car's roof and chirped, especially when Tarra flew down and joined him. Merina smiled at Yugi. "Hi, Yugi."
Yugi immediately blushed. "H-Hi, Merina."
Before they could say anything else, Tiki came out. "Yugi wanted to help me with the bags and see us off personally."
Merina smiled at Yugi. "Really?"
Yugi nodded. "Yes. And…uh…um…"
Merina and Tiki looked at him, waiting for him to talk. Unfortunately, he lost his nerve and started to drag the suitcase to the trunk. Merina looked disappointed but perked up when Torru chirped at her. Shaking her head at Yugi, Tiki suddenly got an idea. Once the suitcases were in the trunk, Tiki chirped loudly, "I call shotgun!"
Before either Merina or Yugi could react, Tiki sat in the front seat. Scipio said nothing: he saw how Yugi was acting and suspected what Tiki was doing. He got behind the wheel and murmured to Tiki, "Nice play."
Tiki grinned. Yugi and Merina looked at each other, both blushing. Yugi swallowed the lump in his throat and gestured to the car. "Well…after you."
Merina nodded and got into the car. Yugi followed. Once everyone was safely secure, Scipio started to drive. Torru and Tarra flew above them; Torru especially was enjoying the air as he could be in an airplane for 13 hours. Keeping his eyes on the road, Scipio asked, "You girls looking forward to this?"
Tiki nodded. "I've always wanted to visit New York."
Merina nodded. "Same. But I am going to miss home."
Yugi whispered, "I don't want you to go."
Merina heard him and smiled with a small blush. Taking a deep breath, he looked at Merina. He wanted to find the right words; at first, however, all he could ask was, "We'll keep in contact, right?"
Merina smiled a little wider. "Of course."
Tiki giggled. "Are you kidding? I won't allow her not to call you."
Merina smiled. Yugi looked at her, wondering if this was the right time. "Um…Merina…?"
Merina looked at him. "Yes?"
Yugi opened his mouth but turned back to the window. "Never mind!"
Merina sighed. Tiki wanted to smack her brother but knew he was out of reach.
Half hour later, they arrived at the airport. To their surprise, their friends were there to see them off. Getting out of the car, Tiki asked, "Why are you guys here?"
Duke could not help but point out, "You're starting to sound like your brother."
Yugi blushed. "Hey!"
Duke held up his hand in defense. "Meant it in a good way."
Joey smirked. "But come on, Tiki. We weren't about to let you two leave without saying goodbye."
Merina smiled at them. "Glad to see all of you made it out."
Kiko grinned. "Of course! We've been friends forever; we had to see you off in fulfilling your dreams."
Tsuki added, "We're really proud of you."
Merina smiled and hugged the girls. Tiki turned to Torru and Tarra. "Go to the air field and find Seto's airplane. I don't think you two can go into the airport."
The phoenixes agreed and flew off. As everyone headed into the airport, Yugi saw the gift shop and got an idea. He snuck away and was back within a few minutes. The group walked until they reached the security gate. Tima smiled. "We're going to miss both of you."
Tiki smiled. "Don't worry. We're both a phone call away."
Merina nodded. "She's right. And this is not forever."
Atem smiled. "Good luck, both of you, on this journey. We know you're both going to shine brightly."
Joey grinned. "We can't wait to see you girls' names in lights!"
Tristan grinned and added, "When you become famous, don't forget us!"
Tiki giggled. As everyone started to hug and say their goodbyes, Yugi reached into his pocket and gripped the box he bought. Taking a deep breath, he cleared his throat, catching Merina's attention. "Can I talk to you?"
Feeling her heart started to race, Merina nodded. As they went to a corner, they heard everyone starting to tease them but the two ignored them. Once alone, they looked at each other. Both were blushing madly. Taking a deep breath, Yugi said, "I got…something for you."
He pulled out the box and gave it to her. Merina blushed, a blush that deepened when she opened the box. Inside was a silver ring decorated with diamonds and sapphires. Her eyes shone. "Yugi…it's beautiful."
"Just like you."
Merina looked up, his eyes widening. "Yugi…"
Yugi blushed and took a deep breath. 'Now or never.' Mustering up all the courage he had, he looked up at her. "Merina…I don't know how to start this but…I've been a fool. Ever since I met you, we have become very close and…I'll be honest: I started to develop feelings for you. At first, I thought it was just a close friend feeling. I was blind because I was smitten with…someone else. But…after what happened with me and her…I realized I made a mistake."
Merina smiled. "Oh, it's okay. We all make mistakes and—"
To her surprise, Yugi placed a finger on her lips. She was surprised but pleasantly so. Lowering his finger, he continued, "I'm sorry for that but I'm not done. I should've seen what was right in front of me: someone who truly cares for me. I first thought it was bad for me to think this so soon: I didn't want to hurt you by making you the rebound girl. But I was wrong. I really…REALLY care for you…and…I…"
He looked up, having not realized until now that he had been moving towards her. He also noticed that her eyes were closed, showing her approval of what he wanted to do. Taking a chance, he went up and place a peck-kiss on her lips. Both blushed, especially when they heard their guy friends cheering for them. Merina chuckled by their cheers but was distracted by Yugi putting the ring on her right ring finger. Continuing to blush, she pointed out, "Um…Yugi…rings usually go on the left hand."
Yugi looked at the ring. "Let's save that for a wedding ring."
Once again, their blush went even deeper. Yugi cleared his throat. "Well…also…you're right-handed…so…you can see the ring…constantly…"
Merina smiled. "True…"
Yugi smiled back at her. "So keep it there."
Both continued to smile at each other. Before they could say anything else, they heard Tiki call out to them, "Merina, we gotta go!"
Merina and Yugi looked up to see a KaibaCorp flight attendant approach them and talk to Tiki. The two rejoined the group and the goodbyes started again. Yugi and Merina saved their goodbye for last. Once they came together, they hugged each other tightly. Merina said, "I'm going to miss you."
Yugi nodded. "And I you."
Getting an idea, Merina kissed Yugi. He froze and blushed so deeply, steam came out of his ears. Pulling back from the kiss, she whispered in his ear, "I'll be thinking about you every day."
Yugi continued to blush but whispered back, "Me too…"
Merina smiled and joined Tiki's side. The girls waved at their friends and followed the flight attendant. Their group waved until the girls were out of sight. Yugi's smile seemed to be permanent and his eyes were bright with happiness. Atem looked at Yugi and smiled. "It's going to be tough, Yugi…"
Yugi nodded. "I know…but this is right."
Grinning, Joey and Tristan got Yugi in a headlock. Joey teased, "You never quit, eh, Yugi? You lucky dog!"
Tristan teasingly-asked, "What's your secret, Yugi?"
Yugi was more focused on trying to breathe and break free to answer. Deep down, though, he was happy.
