Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! I only accept constructive criticism.
10-10-2-Do-Me
Chapter 35
Please Hold the Line
Kaiba pulled his car into the driveway of the Ishtar home. He warily stared at the front door. A part of him wanted to call Isis and tell her to come outside, but he knew that wasn't the best option. He wasn't against going to the door and playing it old school, but he was not in the mood for the shenanigans that would no doubt commence if anyone other than Isis answered the door. Before getting out, the first thing he did was make sure no one was on the roof. It was all clear. He got out of the car, flowers in hand, and approached the front door. Before he could even knock, the door swung open.
Marik was standing there in a pair of gray short-shorts, a white crop-top that said 'Nasty Boy' in aggressive lettering and wearing a fake black mustache. He had Duke tucked under his left arm. Kaiba wasn't sure if Duke was willingly there or being held hostage.
"..."
"Are you the young man here to take Isis on her date?" Marik had the nerve to deepen his already rich voice. "Me and my wife would like a few words with you first, young man."
Duke awkwardly chuckled, "I didn't know he was going to do this…"
"Marik you—!" The bottom of a broom slammed into the top of Marik's head.
The lunatic let go of Duke and spun around, holding his head, "Fuck Malik that hurt!"
"Good, get the hell away from the door and leave Duke alone!" Malik channeled every Kung Fu movie he'd seen (which was quite a few) and brandished the broom like a bow-staff, spinning and flourishing the weapon. He started beating Marik's legs, "And where did you get that mustache?!"
Marik fought back, reaching for the broom. He snatched it from Malik and broke it over his knee, spinning the two pieces in his hands. "Payback time." He chased Malik down the hall, swinging the pieces wildly, while his mustache hung from one side on his top lip.
Duke, who was still at the door, sheepishly smiled. "Hey...so…excited about tonight?"
"I'm not doing this." Kaiba closed the door in Duke's face. The brunet heard Duke call him an asshole under his breath before he headed down the hall. Shortly after he heard new footsteps, but he didn't think they were Isis'. When the door opened, his suspicions were confirmed.
"Babes, you look smashing." Bakura tucked his hands in his pockets and leaned against the door frame. He didn't acknowledge the shouting and banging coming from the living room, as Malik and Marik's battle intensified.
Why was everyone coming to the door but Isis? "What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be working?"
"It was a day party, it wrapped up not too long ago. But enough about me, I find it far more interesting why you're here." Bakura licked his lips as he eyed the flowers, "So you didn't get pied off by Blondie's sister? Cracking turn of events considering how many times you made a dog's dinner of things." He reached for the flowers to have Kaiba jerked them out of reach. "Sorry babes, I thought those were for me."
If Kaiba didn't have time for Duke, he sure as fuck didn't have time for Bakura. He reached for the door handle only to have Bakura grab his wrist.
"Don't be so quick to throw a wobbly." Bakura lowered his voice, "Tell me mate: how many rubbers did you burn through?"
Kaiba yanked his arm away and was about to throw an insult, until he eyed Bakura's sweat suit set. He had an idea. "Those clothes aren't yours." Bakura was practically swimming in the fabric. "Let me guess: you got off work and rushed to your boyfriend's house for a shower and his clothes?"
Bakura's eyes narrowed dangerously. "He's not me boyfriend."
Kaiba smirked, "I bet wearing his clothes makes you feel safe."
"You'd think after some fanny you'd be more of a conversationalist!" Bakura's face was furiously blushing, "But you're still a bloody twat!"
"You like being the little spoon, don't you?"
"Fuck you!" Bakura roared as he slammed the door in Kaiba's face, only to open it again. "And your flowers look like shit!" The door slammed for a final time.
Kaiba enjoyed the victory of running Bakura off. He checked his watch and decided if the next person to come to the door was not Isis, he was going to barge in and bring her out himself. When the ever-present sound of heels clicking on wood floor met his ears, he had a feeling that wouldn't be necessary. The door swung open and once more he'd been bamboozled. Marik was back sans mustache, but now he was wearing a pair of heels. They were the ultimate stripper platforms done up in a fiery red leather.
"You're still here?" Marik asked as he grabbed a duffle bag by the door.
"Barely any time has passed since you last left." With the heels on, Marik was towering over Kaiba.
Marik shrugged, not finding the point in arguing it. He turned to the hall and yelled down, "My friends are around the corner, be back later!" He firmly closed the door and walked perfectly to the end of the driveway. He even had a sensual sway to his hips. He looked over his shoulder, winking at Kaiba.
"…What in the…"
A bright orange Yukon XL SUV pulled up full of older women – they had to be in their 40s and 50s. They excitedly greeted Marik, gushing over how sexy he looked for class. Marik happily got in and away they all went.
"Marik enrolled in a pole dancing class."
Kaiba's ears warmed at the sound of Isis' voice. He chose not to turn around just yet, instead he watched the SUV disappear down the road. "Interesting..."
"The younger aged classes were all full, so he found a way into the older classes." Isis chuckled. "After the first class, they made sure he could keep coming back."
"He's insane." Kaiba finally turned around and holy shit. Initially he was distracted by how deliciously the dress fit Isis' body, but something in the way the waves of her hair framed her face – framed those blues eyes – made his heart hammer in his chest.
"Sorry to keep you waiting..." Had Kaiba always been this handsome? The burgundy suit was cut in such a flattering way, Isis found herself wanting to be in Kaiba's arms. Her heart was pounding behind her ribs. "Hi…" She felt bashful by how intensely he was watching her.
Kaiba's cheeks went red as he robotically offered the bouquet being choked in his right hand. "Here…" His voice lacked emotion.
Isis took them in shaky hands. She gave them a gentle sniff and the eucalyptus leaves soothed her tensing body. "How did you know I loved lily of the Nile?" She brushed her fingertips against a petal and lightheartedly asked, "Did you also hack my social media page too?"
"Yes."
Wait…what? "I was joking Seto..." Isis reluctantly looked up from the flowers to make eye contact. "Were you also joking?"
Well, fuck. "...I wasn't..." Kaiba casually turned around, grimacing and wishing he was six feet under. "It happened..." He meant to add more but his mind went blank.
Silence.
Kaiba was trying his hardest not to freak out, but he was 99.9% sure he already ruined the date. He thought back to how she called him a spy for hacking '10-10-2 Do Me.' Surely, he didn't help his case by admitting to also checking her private social media page. Much to his surprise, the silence was broken with a small giggle from Isis.
"Perhaps you and Marik have more in common than you're willing to confess." Isis wasn't sure if she was laughing out of exasperation or by how Kaiba so casually admitted to invading her privacy for a second time.
"...Are you calling me insane?" Kaiba turned back around to find Isis giving him an unreadable look.
"I think you're more along the lines of wacky." She inhaled the calming eucalyptus, "Defined as odd or irrational."
Kaiba was offended. "There's nothing about me that's comparable to Marik, especially neurologically."
"Have you read any studies on high-ranking corporate leaders exhibiting psychopathic characteristics?" Isis came off nonchalant, but this was indeed a dig. Her privacy or lack thereof, was still a sore subject, and that sore just got poked for a second time.
Kaiba didn't appreciate the question or the possible implications. "What about it?"
The tone. Isis felt her skin prickle under the satin of the dress. No, she was not going to argue with Kaiba before she could even leave her front yard. "I was curious if you had, that's all."
Kaiba almost barked a 'that's it?' but was able to hold his tongue. If he was going to piss Isis off again, could he at least wait until after the date? "OK."
"Let's make our escape before anymore interruptions." Isis turned to the entryway, grabbing her purse off a small side table.
Kaiba wanted to be irritated but when Isis turned her back to him, that need to argue changed to a just as passionate need. The view of her back ignited something inside him. The valley running between her shoulder blades that disappeared at her low back, where the dress covered, had his feet moving forward.
Isis felt the tips of Kaiba's fingers trail down the middle of her back leaving goosebumps behind. "Seto…" How quickly they both moved from an almost argument to attraction.
"What?" Kaiba teasingly tugged at the ties in the back but didn't use enough force to unravel the knot.
"You know what I'm about to say…"
"Say it."
"You're being naughty…" Isis turned to face him.
Kaiba reached around her bare shoulder and teased down the middle of her spine again, with his index and ring finger. "Don't you mean wacky?" He slid his fingers back up and across her pulse point, trailing them over her collarbones before dropping his hand. "Are you ready?"
"For what?" Isis reminded herself that Kaiba was there for more than one reason. "Oh, yes, for the date."
"...Should we..." Kaiba cleared his throat, realizing he was going to suggest skipping the date and run straight back to his place. He knew that wasn't the best option.
"Should we what?"
"...Go?" Kaiba made an amused sound, "Let's just go." He made it to the car first and opened the passenger side door for Isis. The chivalrous act was juxtaposed by his utterly bored look while doing so.
Isis was surprised by the action and did a poor job hiding the fact. "Thank you, Seto." She got in and watched him close the door with care, mindful of not slamming it. Isis felt something warm spread up her neck and face.
When Kaiba got in the car, he wasn't sure what was up with Isis' body language, but he surmised it wasn't bad. At least he hoped so. He started the car and headed out of the neighborhood.
"Are you ready to tell me where we're going?" Isis held the bouquet in her lap, gently touching the petals of the agapanthus.
"No."
Isis hummed in understanding.
Kaiba put on his blinker and hopped on the highway. The car was quiet thanks to the luxury vehicle's insulation. He wondered if he should say something. Small talk wasn't his thing; if he had to do it, the weather was his go to. That's how bad at small talk he was. Besides, he'd already put his foot in his mouth once, he didn't want to risk doing it again.
"Seto?"
"Hm?" Thank goodness he didn't have to start the conversation.
"Would you like to tell me why you hacked my social media?" Her tone wasn't accusatory or upset.
Well, fuck. Maybe he should have seized the occasion and mentioned the heat index for the rest of the week. He decided to find a loophole. "No."
"...No?"
"You asked if I would like to, no, I would not."
Isis huffed in amusement, "Silly of me to not properly word things in the presence of a polyglot."
"Hyperpolygot," Kaiba cockily corrected.
"Pardon me yet again." Isis rolled her eyes good naturedly, "How about this: Seto, tell me why you hacked my social media."
Was it too late to change the topic of conversation, and instead tell Isis where he was taking her? Kaiba assumed it was and that he needed to just address his initial round of snooping. "I was...researching…"
"You mean being nosey?" Isis had a mysterious smile about her lips.
"Your page had nothing to see."
"And you only found that out after snooping." She shook her head in disbelief, "Snooping that involved hacking. I'm sure what you did broke a few laws."
"Please direct all cyber security law inquiries to my legal team."
Isis didn't find that funny.
Kaiba wasn't joking.
"More of your wackiness I suppose…"
"…If you say so…" Kaiba was impressed by his mild (at least for him) passive aggressiveness.
Isis stared out the window to the fellow cars making their way into the city. She didn't know in what degree she was offended; she just knew she was. On one hand, yes, she was upset that Kaiba moved back a digital blockade to see what she posted in her personal life. The other side of her had a sneaking suspicion this was one of his faults: nosey. She called it from day one at the whiskey party, should she be surprised now that she was right? Her intuition rarely led her astray. But even with this 'whisper from the universe', it didn't make it right. And he did it more than once.
Why did she stress out over getting all dolled up? Why was she in this car? Why was she going on this date? That part of her felt stupid all over again. This was a red flag waving angrily on the battlefield that was she and Kaiba's ongoing war. If she told him to take the next exit and let her out, she had a feeling he'd oblige. She could send out an SOS to Duke and spend the evening with him. Surely, he'd find a use for her dress. But on the other hand, a hand she wanted so badly to reprimand, she didn't want to leave. She wanted to see this through. But the last time she saw something through, she ended up divorced, broke, and applying for a work visa.
Kaiba couldn't help but take in Isis' pensive stare. What was she thinking? He was getting super agitated the longer the silence went on. Fuck. It. "Are you mad?" It came out more aggressive than he intended but Isis didn't seem to notice.
"Huh?" Isis came back to reality to feel the car gradually speed up. She refused to check the speedometer.
"Me hacking your social media." He was doing 10mph over the posted speed limit. Somehow it made him feel better. "Are you mad about it?"
"Mad is the wrong word." Isis carefully picked her words, "Dismayed would be more suitable."
"Why?"
"Are you really asking me why? I feel that answer is obvious." Isis looked over at the driver to find the last thing she expected: sincerity.
"Say it anyway." Kaiba understood all the obvious reasons someone would be upset but he wanted to hear Isis' specifics on the matter.
Isis let out a long sigh. "Seto…" She stared directly at him despite him not being able to take his eyes off the road. "You invaded my privacy. You took immoral tactics to access information that wasn't for public access, but private confession. It…it makes me feel like I'm not a person to you, just a database to confirm your suspicions." Goodness she felt stupid being so vulnerable with someone who had showed no respect for her privacy. She never should have brought it up. "This was a ghalTa…"
Mistake. Kaiba's brain loudly translated the Arabic. His stomach twisted from its correct location and dropped deep down. He felt sick. "You think I'm a mistake?"
The question was almost presented as a statement. "…I do not…" Isis looked at Kaiba to find his face emotionless, but his eyes reflected turbulent thoughts.
Kaiba didn't know how to respond. Well, he did but it wouldn't be nice. A nerve had been struck, a nerve that didn't exactly pertain to Isis, but was hard to hear from her. He didn't feel like trying to be cordial, so he chose silence, which in turn increased the speed of the car.
Isis' the one who was wronged but somehow, Kaiba's upset by the truth? Isis felt an attitude simmer under the surface. And to think he once accused her of not being able to handle facts. "Are you in a hurry?"
"No." Kaiba drove even faster, getting to their exit in record time.
Isis continued to stare out the window, watching the rough foliage fly by. "So now you're mad?"
"No."
A memory suddenly played in Isis' mind. A local was walking barefoot down the Strip, designer heels in hand, while her boyfriend put his hazards on and rolled his sports car next to her, begging her to get back in the car. At the time, Isis didn't understand why that woman chose to do so outside of blaming it on intoxicated decision making. But now, as they got closer to the Strip, she could easily see the same outcome for herself. However, there would be no Kaiba begging her to get back in the car. No, that didn't seem to be his style. Kaiba would probably peel out, spinning the tires and filling the air with burning rubber and smoke, as he painted the asphalt in thick black lines. He'd angrily tell her it was her loss and disappear down the road, leaving her to call for a ride.
Whoops, Isis successfully angered herself.
"If I chose to get out of the car because we were fighting, would you leave me to walk home or stay by my side, driving next to me until you persuaded me to get back in?"
OK, what just happened? Kaiba did not expect the scenario or the quiet rage that came with it. "What the hell are you talking about?" He double checked the doors were locked. "Do you want to get out of the car?"
"I asked you a question, please answer it. Now."
"I'm not answering such a stupid question."
"How is it stupid?"
"What makes you think I'd let you out the car if we were arguing?"
Isis crossed her arms and shot him a glare. "You would not honor my autonomy and let me out of the car if that was my request?"
"Not if it was moving." Kaiba was starting to get mad about this imaginary situation. "And if we were arguing, the last thing I'm going to do is dump you somewhere in the middle of the night in seedy Las Vegas."
"So you're saying you'd dump me in Domino City then?"
Kaiba growled in agitation, "Baka bakashi…what does any of this matter?! Is your plan to get out of the car?!"
"Maybe! And if I chose to do so, it would indeed be my choice in whether I'd like to or not."
"Fine, if you wanted to get the fuck out of the car, I wouldn't stop you."
"Would you drive away and leave me? Perhaps even rev the engine and peel out?"
Oh, Kaiba definitely would and he'd enjoy it too. "Yes, I would."
"I knew it…"
"I'd drive around the block and then come back for your extremely dramatic and annoying princess antics."
Isis felt her crossed arms loosen. "You…you wouldn't leave me to find a ride?"
Leave Isis vulnerable, upset, and free to call Duke for a ride in this fake sequence of events? Fuck. That. "No. I'd make sure you got in so I could take you home, at the least. Now, are we done with this horrible 'what if'?"
Isis nodded, "Yes…we are…" With the irrational fog clearing her mind, Isis couldn't believe she really just reacted to something that never happened. A giggle fluttered her stomach and soon it turned into full blown laughter. "I'm…I'm sorry Seto."
Kaiba felt all the tension melt from his shoulders and back. A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, "Calling me wacky was just projection, hm?"
Isis placed a hand on Kaiba's leg and squeezed, "No but I doubt you believe that."
The small touch doused water on any lingering flames to Kaiba's attitude. He still found their random argument to be beyond stupid, but it did hold value. For Isis to accuse him of doing something he'd yet to have the opportunity entertain, exposed to him how much her mind was spinning over her involvement with him. Kaiba couldn't have this. He'd come too far to have her daydream herself right away from him. He had to keep them guided in the right direction which meant he had to do something he absolutely loathed. He licked his lips and forced himself to do the right thing.
"Isis…"
"Hm?" His suddenly serious tone perked Isis' ears.
"I'm…" Say. It. "I…"
"Yes?"
Kaiba gulped. He could do this – he could technically do anything so he could surely do this. He was a hyperpolygot, he knew exactly what to say after all. "I acknowledge my misconduct in hacking your accounts."
"…Oh?" Isis wasn't sure where this was going, but she hoped it was going in a certain direction.
Shit, he had to say more. "I take accountability in your distress over the situation…"
"…And?" Isis lifted a brow, waiting.
"…And…I…" Kaiba narrowed his eyes, mentally seeing the words but not wanting to say them based on his nature. "And…I…"
Isis once more squeezed his leg, silently rooting him on.
"I…a… Consider this my formal…a…apology…" He almost gagged so he rushed out a flatly spoken, "I'msorry."
"Thank you Seto." It wasn't perfect but it was a start and that's all they needed right now. She leaned in leaving a sweet kiss to his cheek. "I greatly appreciate that."
The affection Kaiba received post-apology made it feel worth it.
"Seto, can we play a game?"
Kaiba liked where this was going, "What kind of game?"
"I'm calling it: yes, no, pass." Because they were now on this good (not great) start, Isis felt they needed to air out a few more items. Her earlier conversation with Malik gave her the idea.
"What do I have to do?"
"We'll ask one another questions and we can simply answer yes or no. Explanations aren't necessary. If the question is too much, you can pass."
Kaiba narrowed his eyes in thought, staring up at the red light of the intersection. Was this a good idea to play? What would Isis ask? Were there topics he did not want to talk about? Well...yes. A big yes. They just fought and made up, was this a good time? He could always just say pass to keep the peace. "Fine. I'm going first."
Isis hid a smile – of course he was already being competitive. "I thought you'd want to. Go ahead."
"Is your social media private to hide from people?"
Isis was caught off guard, but not afraid to answer. "Yes." She glanced over at him to find him not showing any level of reaction to the news. Perhaps he already suspected it since he chose to ask. "I will go now: did you look into anything else regarding my background, outside of the my '10-10' account and social media profile?"
"No." Kaiba used his peripheral to find that Isis seemed relieved by this. A part of him wanted to say more but 'explanations weren't necessary.' He'd follow the rules of their game. "My turn: did you ever date Duke?"
"Pass."
Kaiba gave Isis an accusatory side eye. He knew it! This. Meant. War.
"I've answered this more than once. I'm passing based on the monotony of the question." Isis heard Kaiba mumble something in Japanese under his breath but didn't question it. He's had his answer for some time and just needed to accept it. "I'll go: do you like your job?"
"Pass."
Isis looked over at Kaiba to find him dutifully watching out the windshield. He was very unreadable. "Oh..." She didn't know what she expected, but maybe not that.
Kaiba didn't answer because he didn't have one – he didn't know. He found that troubling and didn't want to think about it. "Moving on..." He spotted their destination's turn coming up and decided to get the atmosphere back on track. "Am I good in bed?"
"Pass." Kaiba pulled up to a valet stand to find Isis giving him quite a spirited look, "I do not have enough data to come to a proper conclusion."
"We'll need to run additional testing..."
"If you're so lucky." Isis coyly got out of the car as the valet attendant got the door for her.
Kaiba came out on his side and joined Isis on the sidewalk. "Do you have an idea of why we're here?"
Isis took in the bright digital billboard of the entryway. It was welcoming all guest to the famous STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod. The sprawling resort was known for many things, such as luxurious suites, fine dining, and plenty of gambling. But the main attraction was the 1,149-foot-tall Stratosphere Tower. There at the top was the SkyPod; this was where thrill seekers could bungee jump or even ride thrill rides as their feet dangled high in the air. But none of those came to mind, only one attraction was on Isis' mind.
"Are we going to 'The Top of the World'?"
Kaiba motioned Isis to follow him in, not confirming or denying.
Isis easily looped her arm with Kaiba's, bracing his bicep. "I'm very excited Seto."
Kaiba felt his body react to the touch in a way that was non-sexual, and he wasn't sure what to make it. He placed his hand in his pocket, so the arm was better stabilized for her to hold on to. As they made their way through the resort, he once more observed others examining, he and Isis. A group of girls muttered amongst themselves sat how much they loved Isis' dress, but her date even more. When they passed a group of older wealthy gentleman – all who rubbernecked his date – Kaiba gave them an extremely cocky smirk. He loved the boost of jealousy he got from having her on his arm.
Meanwhile, Isis wasn't pay attention to any of that. She was doing her best to keep her excitement contained, as they arrived at the elevator for the Stratosphere Tower. She expected a throng of tourists waiting by the doors, anticipating the view of the Strip from the sky, but that wasn't the case. There were only three finely dressed couples waiting. Even when the elevator opened, the operator waving them in, no one came out. This was very unlike such a popular attraction.
Kaiba stood next to Isis as the elevator climbed to the 106th floor, opening to the acclaimed rotating 'Top of the World' restaurant. It revolved 360 degrees every 80 minutes, offering their diners a panoramic view of the city. The dining area was surrounded by large glass windows, affixed with support beams. The carpet was a rich midnight purple with a bar in the center, surrounded in silver and a smooth warm amber hickory wood. The booths were all roped off, but the seating by the window was available in limited numbers. The tables were glass with black legs; elegant black wingback tufted upholstery dining chairs, with gold legs, were tucked into them. The place settings were done with square matte black dishes and flatware.
Isis could not recall the restaurant tables looking like this, better yet them having so few tables spread greatly apart.
"Name please?" The concierge asked.
"Kaiba."
The woman scrolled through a tablet before nodding in recognition. "Table 11." She nodded to a host.
The host led them around the dining room to their numbered table. Kaiba pulled Isis' chair out for her, before taking his own.
"Seto, what's going on?" Isis delicately laid her clutch on the inner corner of the table. She looked around finding that the black tables were filling up, but only with couples. "Shouldn't there be more tables and people?"
"If only there were less people..." Kaiba adjusted his suit jacket, "I wanted to reserve the entire place, but apparently, I wasn't the first to call. Because of the demand, they dramatically lowered the number of tables and had us bid for a spot."
"Oh..." Isis wasn't new to the 'reservation war' (as Duke put it) that happened all over Las Vegas, but this was the first time she'd been on the receiving end of it. And she knew this arrangement was not cheap in the least. "I am very grateful for your perseverance. I've always wanted to come here."
Kaiba was pleasantly surprised, "Malik or Duke never took you here?"
"They offered." Isis stared out over the city, in awe of how beautiful the chaos of Sin City looked from there. "But there's just some things you want to do, with someone special..." She turned back to Kaiba, giving him a sweet smile.
Kaiba felt his stomach flutter and blamed it on hunger pains. "Since you're such a fan, do you know what you want to order?"
"Hmm, that's a good question. I know they offer seasonal dishes, so I'd like to peruse those first before making a decision."
Kaiba raised his hand and a waiter appeared. He handed the two menus and went back to his post nearby.
Isis looked past Kaiba's shoulder to find all the tables this evening had their own personal waitstaff. Very exclusive.
Kaiba made his decision and set his menu aside. He watched Isis cutely scan the menu, her eyes excited over what to try. Those sapphire eyes looked up and shined in his direction.
"I've made my decision."
Kaiba once more flagged the waiter over. The waiter turned to Isis waiting.
"I'll have the rack of lamb with a side of your roasted brussels sprouts."
"Wonderful choice ma'am," the waiter praised as he took down the order. "And you sir?"
"I'll have the grilled Icelandic salmon with a side of grilled asparagus. We'll also have the crab cakes and half dozen oysters for our starters."
"Excellent sir," the waiter was still writing as he asked, "and can I interest you in champagne for you and your date?"
Date. Isis was Kaiba's date because they were on a date. On a date at a romantic place at that. And she argued with him over a stupid daydream in the car! Now was not the time to focus on the finer details. She was getting nervous all over again.
"Do you want champagne Isis?"
Isis rejoined reality to find Kaiba and the waiter waiting for her answer. "Yes, that would be fine."
Kaiba addressed the waiter. "Do you have a menu for your blanc de blancs and rosé selections?"
The waiter reached into his apron and produced what looked like black card stock. It was a list of champagnes.
Kaiba scanned the catalog before his eyes ticked to Isis', "Would you like to pick something out Isis?"
Isis suddenly felt shy that Kaiba was including her in the decision, especially in front of the waiter. It was silly but she couldn't help it. "Whatever you choose will be fine."
Kaiba handed the menu back to the waiter, "We'll have the Perrier-Jouët: their 2006 belle epoque line. The blanc de blancs and rosé."
"Outstanding choice, I will return with your champagne and starters soon." The waiter exited the dining area.
"Why a blanc de blancs and rosé in particular?" Isis didn't know why she felt so bashful over the eye contact Kaiba was giving her. She fiddled with her necklace, hoping he wouldn't notice.
Kaiba did notice the fidgeting and was now worried he should have forced Isis to pick something. Was she not a fan of champagne in general? "Do you not like them?"
"Oh no, they're fine." Isis gave a shy smile.
Kaiba interpreted it as nervous. "Isis, if..." He paused. The rest of the statement sounded a little too defensive in his head. The last thing he wanted was another spiraling conversation. He started again, "...if you would prefer wine, we can get that too."
"Champagne is the best option." Isis worried she aggravated Kaiba somehow. But the last thing she was going to do, was ask him if she did. She learned where that got them already. "So, why did pick those? The list looked vast."
"Blanc de blancs pair well with oysters and rosé with crab cakes or meatier fish, such as salmon." Kaiba watched Isis carefully, "While lamb is usually best paired with wine, I've heard good things about a vintage rosé combination."
Isis felt her body fidgeting less and easing more into the moment. Kaiba was showing her a side of himself she knew nothing about. "I'm impressed by your knowledge on the matter. You must be a great cook."
"I wouldn't know."
"Odd response... What do you mean?"
"I don't cook."
"Ever?"
"It's a rarity."
"When was the last time you cooked for yourself, or someone cooked for you in a personal setting?"
Kaiba gazed out the window to the slowly changing view. When was the last time? That brunch at Yami's? "It's been sometime."
Isis hummed disapprovingly, "We'll have to change that."
"How so?"
"I'll have to make something for you."
Why was Isis offering? He had plenty of money to buy whatever food he wanted. Kaiba's gaze narrowed in skepticism, "Why would you cook for me?"
"...Would you not like me to?" Did she say something wrong? Isis wasn't sure if he was glaring at her or not.
"People don't offer to cook for me." For Kaiba, Mana didn't count in this context – she was a chef after all. She had a love for it the average person didn't.
"Did your mother or father cook for you when you were growing up?"
"No, neither did." Kaiba never gave it much thought, but he grew up in a home with private chefs and a kitchen staff. Cooking was seen as a task they were all too busy to do, but they did have to eat. Better to pay someone to do it. "We always had a personal chef."
"That must have been nice."
Kaiba grunted but gave no response. The last thing he wanted to do was relive some dinner memories.
Isis was itching to ask how his parents never once made him a sandwich or heated up soup on a stove for him when he was sick. But it sounded so rude and prying in her mind. She thought back to her own snooping she did in Japan; how she saw that old photo of Kaiba, his parents, and brother. Or even how Pegasus viciously called him a 'passed down bastard.' She couldn't fathom Kaiba's childhood, and she wondered if they'd ever talk about it. For now, she'd have to leave it.
"You mentioned having family in Egypt, did you often eat Egyptian food growing up?"
"Only on special occasions and when we visited Cairo." Kaiba was grateful Isis was talking again. The silence in watching her mind try to put pieces together about who he was, was about to stress him out.
"Did you have a favorite dish?"
Kaiba instantly responded, "Samak mashwi."
Isis cooed in surprise, "I don't know what I was expecting but not that." She tucked a curl behind her ear, "If you will allow me to, I'll prepare you samak mashwi."
"Why?"
"Why not?"
Kaiba wasn't pleased with the answer. "Do you want something in exchange?"
"Yes."
"What?"
"For you to eat my food." Isis even winked, giggling at herself.
Kaiba fought a smile and quietly asked, "...Do you know how to prepare it with red snapper?"
"I do." Isis gave a confident smile, "Will you allow me to make it for you?"
"You're so annoying..." Kaiba huffed but the small curve to the side of his lips exposed him. "Fine."
"Thank you for giving in."
Kaiba rolled his eyes, Isis smiling triumphantly.
The waiter returned with their champagne selections and shoved them into the ice bucket, popping the intimate bubble they created, before scurrying off again.
Isis cleared her throat, "You're a big fan of fish dishes in general?"
"Japan has a vast array of seafood cuisine. You would know that if Duke didn't ruin your trip."
Isis sniggered behind her hand, "You seem more bitter about Duke ruining our trip than I do."
"I am."
"I'd like to know why."
"It's expensive flying private to the States." There was a glint of humor in those cobalt blue eyes.
Isis bit her bottom lip to hide a smile, "I wouldn't know, I fly private for free."
Kaiba made an amused noise. "How could I forget that detail?" He adjusted himself in his seat, taking a more relaxed stance. "I've traveled to most regions of the world, and Japan is my favorite for seafood."
"Only for seafood?"
Kaiba gave a weak shrug, "For other things too, I guess."
"Like your family? The memories you've made there?"
Kaiba snorted, "If that were the reason I should leave."
Isis played with the corner of her napkin, choosing her words wisely, "You haven't made a lot of good memories in Japan?"
Kaiba gave her a long look before mumbling, "Pass." Unlike before, he did have an answer and it was very complicated. Better to just move on.
"We're still playing?"
"Sure."
Isis sighed to ease the growing tension in her shoulders. He didn't want to talk about that, and she would respect his wishes, but it was so hard. She wanted to build a bridge between them, hoping it would encourage Kaiba to cross into more 'intimate information' territory. "You know...about my social media..." She paused when the waiter arrived with their crab cakes and oysters.
"Which champagne would you like to start with?" The waiter questioned.
"Open both," Kaiba instructed.
The waiter did so and poured a glass of each, setting them on the table, before once more exiting.
Kaiba slid Isis the glass of blanc de blancs. "Try it."
Isis took a sip of the champagne. The crisp citrus and fresh floral notes bubbled across her tongue. "Delicious."
"The rosé?" He slid the second glass.
Isis tipped that one past her lips and hummed in approval. The powerful yet delicate pure fruity flavor was perfect. "Wonderful."
"Good." Kaiba motioned to Isis, "You were saying."
"Oh yes, about my social media." Isis set the glass down. "You have seen my page so you're aware of how empty it is."
"Mmmhm." Kaiba was listening while he set one of the two crab cakes on Isis' plate. He also gave her three oysters.
"It wasn't always like that." Isis grabbed her fork and delicately cut into the crab cake, "I deleted a lot of people, changed my handle name, and went private...some people were blocked too." She placed the crab cake in her mouth and enjoyed the amazing flavor of the high-end food. "I wanted to start over."
"Is it good?"
Isis nodded, taking another bite. She watched as Kaiba finally took a bite of his. "I wanted—no, I needed a fresh start. It's why I left. Flushing my social media was just a part of the transition."
"Who do you still speak to in Egypt?"
Isis gave a bitter chuckle, "No one really."
"...Your parents?"
"No." She took another bite of the crab cake, and stared down at her plate, hoping Kaiba didn't think less of her because of that. "How is your relationship with your parents?"
"Pass."
Isis looked up to find Kaiba giving her an unreadable look. "I understand." She finished her crab cake, moving on to an oyster. "How did you know I like oysters?"
"You weren't disgusted when I ordered them." Kaiba saw in his mind's eye an image of Joey's face utterly green and repulsed at the prospect of eating them.
"Do you believe it's true what they say about oysters?" Isis ate her first one and set the shell aside.
Kaiba followed suit. "About them being an aphrodisiac?"
"Yes."
"Studies have found unique amino acids that are known to stimulate sexual desire in both sexes, are found in oysters. They're also a great source of zinc for healthy sperm count. I personally think it's more of a placebo effect."
"You're very matter-of-fact on what should be a sexy topic."
"What's sexy about bivalve mollusks?"
Isis had a big smile on her face, shaking her head as she ate another oyster.
"What are you thinking?"
"I just...if Malik were here, he would say the fact that they're bi is what makes them sexy."
"...Sorry I asked..."
Despite herself, Isis started laughing, Kaiba quietly joining in.
The waiter soon returned, clearing their empty dishes and shells. When he came back, it was with their entrees. Both smelled and looked amazing. There wasn't as much conversation, just a comfortable silence as they stole glances at one another.
When they were nearing the end of the entrees, Isis asked, "Speaking of brothers, how's yours?"
"Fine."
"Do you and Mokuba speak often?"
"He calls to check on me."
"How sweet of him." Isis held out her glass, Kaiba topped it off with more rosé. "Malik is a sweetheart too."
Kaiba gave her a disbelieving look as he drank his fill of champagne.
"It's after you get to know him. He has a hard outer shell but he's sweet and gooey on the inside." Isis took a few sips of her beverage, "I feel you two have that in common."
"What makes you think that about me?"
"If I tell you, then you'll stop giving yourself away. I can't have that."
Kaiba gave a fake annoyed look and finished his glass off, refilling it with the blanc de blancs. "Anyone who wants to date Bakura should not be compared to me."
"But Bakura is your friend."
"Impossible."
Isis gave a 'hmph' of disbelief. "How can he not be your friend?"
"If I say he's not my friend, then he's not my friend."
"But he came all this way with you."
"He was already coming here."
"But you two were at that party together?"
"He was working – he had to be there."
"Well, why were you there? Was it to support your friend?"
Kaiba thought back to how that whole night was supposed to be a distraction. It really evolved into so much more. "How do you know I wasn't supposed to be there?"
"I'm guessing."
"You may not be able to wrap your head around this, but I'm a big fucking deal Isis."
Isis couldn't keep her giggle in.
Kaiba continued in his cocky playful tone, "I'm invited to tons of events. Due to status, sometimes I have to show up."
Isis took a sip of champagne. "I don't doubt you're invited to many events. But I know you're picky with where you choose to spend your time."
"What does that say about you?"
Isis cleverly shot back, "I too must be a big deal."
Laughter bubbled from the table; Isis cutely covering her mouth, while Kaiba lowered his head, rubbing his forehead and chuckling. When they both calmed down, they returned to the last few bits of their meal.
The waiter soon returned to collect their dishes and handed out dessert menus. They each picked an item quicker than their entrees.
"The salted caramel crème brûlée," Kaiba requested.
Isis smiled up at the waiter, "And I the hummingbird cake."
Kaiba gave Isis an interested look.
"Both great choices. I'll be right out." And right out was exactly what happened with the waiter. Whether the kitchen was anticipating the orders or not, it didn't matter, all that did was the perfect bowl of crème brûlée set before Kaiba, and perfect slice of white and brown cake set before Isis.
Isis was about to taste her slice when she paused, finding Kaiba still watching her in interest. "What is it?"
"You like hummingbird cake?"
Isis knew it wasn't for everyone. It was made up of bananas, pineapple, pecans, cinnamon, nutmeg, cream cheese frosting, white chocolate ganache, toasted coconut, and this particular slice happened to come with a side of house-made cinnamon ice cream. For some, that was way too busy for a slice of cake. But it was perfect for Isis. "I do. Have you ever tried it before?"
"Yes." His answer sounded cautious.
"You didn't like it?"
"The opposite."
Isis watched as Kaiba eyed her cake, examining it closely. He had this odd childlike look of contemplation. Wait... That's when it clicked: he wanted some of her cake. "Seto...would you like to try it?"
"..." Kaiba's kneejerk reaction was to say no. That was Isis' cake, if he wanted cake, he could order his own. But he didn't want to order his own, he wanted to try hers. He'd never been in a position like this.
Isis didn't wait for an answer and cut off a small piece on her fork, she held it out to him. "Here."
Kaiba felt his cheeks flush as he leaned in and tasted the cake from Isis' fork.
Isis also took a bite and smiled at the perfect flavors of the Caribbean dessert. "What do you think?"
"Edible."
"I'd hope so." Isis chuckled as she cut off another piece and held it out to Kaiba.
Once more he ate from Isis' fork and continued to feel embarrassed about the whole ordeal.
"Still just edible?" Isis teased.
"Mmmhm." Kaiba cracked the top of his crème brûlée, "I know a place in Jamaica that has the best hummingbird cake."
"Next time you go, bring me back a slice," Isis joked as she ate more of the cake and ice-cream.
"That wouldn't be necessary." Kaiba tried the well-known French confection, "You'd be with me the next time I go."
Isis felt her heart slam into its rhythm and her face go red, "O-oh..."
Kaiba imagined Isis in a bikini, wet from the Caribbean, eating hummingbird cake in the sunshine. He wondered if he could convince her to leave right now that for that piece of cake.
Isis shyly fiddled with her necklace, "I will hold you to that."
"OK."
Isis sighed out the last bit of tension and reached a hand across the table. She rested it atop of Kaiba's knuckles. "Thank you for inviting me out with you Seto, I'm having a lovely time."
"…Doesn't feel like a mistake?"
Isis could hear Kaiba's apprehension. The hand resting on his started drawing soothing circles across his knuckles with just the tips of her fingers. "This is far from a mistake. I know it may sound cheesy but it's the truth..."
Kaiba didn't know what was happening, but her words mixed with the gentle touch felt...dangerously nice? It was both comforting and turning him on. He didn't understand the combination.
Isis noticed something darken in Kaiba's eyes, so she took it a step further. She nudged his hand, so the palm now faced out. "Should I read your palm?" She held his hand in both of hers and drew lazy patterns following the lines on the inside of his hand.
The almost ticklish sensations shot up Kaiba's arm, and down his body. Such a simple touch was doing things to him. And when Isis' nails drug lightly down the center, he almost groaned. He could feel the shift in his pants. He used his occupied hand to hold both of hers. Kaiba gave Isis a sensual smirk, holding up his spoon. "Taste."
This was an all too familiar game with a twist: Kaiba's hold on her hands tightened, as he held the spoon out closer. He was holding her in place, while she leaned forward. Something in the aggressive hold, had Isis cooing as she and wrapped her lips around the spoon, sliding the contents off. "That's good..."
Kaiba set his spoon down and boldly dipped his index and middle fingers into the dessert. He held them out to Isis. "Again."
Isis felt his hand tighten on her hands as she wrapped her lips around his fingers, shyly sucking. Her tongue wiggled between the digits, cleaning them off perfectly. "That tasted better than the first bite..."
Kaiba felt his pants tighten. He scanned his eyes down from her mouth, across her elegant neck and collarbones, and unabashedly landed on her cleavage. "Fuck...I want to eat crème brûlée off your boobies."
Before Isis could fully process what just came out of Kaiba's mouth, she was already laughing. This laughter came from her belly. She broke away from Kaiba's hold and held her stomach with one hand and covered her mouth with the other.
Wait...did he just say boobies? Kaiba was mortified. His whole head was beet red. He looked over at the bottles of champagne and found they were all empty, as well as their glasses. Oh shit, was he drunk? Now quite but he was more uninhibited from the endless champagne.
Isis too was not sober, because her laughter brought her to tears. She dabbed at eyes, hoping she wasn't ruining her make up, as she tried to calm down. "That was...your forwardness is..." It was all just too funny.
"We should go," Kaiba suggested as he stood up. He needed to flee the scene of his social crime. He pulled out his phone and sent a quick text to his security team to not only pick up his rental, but also to send a driver so he and Isis could safely make it to the next location. If he was admitting to wanting to eat dessert off Isis' chest, the last thing he should do is drive.
The couple exited the famous restaurant and rode the elevator with a few other couples. A few of them stole glances at Kaiba and Isis, the two realizing some of them must have seen their little show in the restaurant. Isis wanted to be embarrassed but she just wasn't. Kaiba stared back at anyone questioning what he dared to do with the crème brûlée he paid for.
Down in the lobby, a man dressed in a black suit and sunglasses, with an earpiece in, was holding up a phone that said 'Kaiba' in big bold blue digital text. Kaiba and Isis followed the man outside to a white Chrysler 300 limousine.
"Where to Mr. Kaiba?" The driver asked as he held the door open for them.
"Location two."
Isis turned to Kaiba as the drive closed the door. "Location two?"
Kaiba smirked, "This night isn't over."
Isis felt her body hum with excitement.
PLEASE READ:
Hey everyone! This chapter was so much fun to write but was getting way too long. With the plans I have for our favorites date, it saw it best to split it up into two chapters. So so so much in store.
Arabic Words:
GhalTa – Mistake
Samak mashwi – Arabian spiced fish
Japanese Words:
Baka bakashi – Ridiculous, stupid, nonsense
Posted especially for:
Alelys: I hate that I kept you waiting for so long last time! I made sure to make this one speedier.
jtdarkman: Trepidation is truly the 'word of the day' for this situation. I had a good laugh at the idea of Kaiba 'evolving into a member of society.' Is he even capable of such things? Hahaha. As for those tabs, they were art I saw in passing on the way to find my own kinks. Wish I had some leads for you, but I don't. Booooo.
lovereading92: The bedroom is secured unlike everything else in their budding relationship. Awesome on the email. I'll be sure to reach out!
sumiko808: I have been a devout Trustshipper since I was a kid too. Malik really is a good brother and I love shining light on their sweet dynamic. I can't deny I get a hoot out of writinga bout the mess that comes from those four.
Lauradbz13: Awww, thank you so much for saying that. I hope this update added a little light as well.
SetoRJK-Kaiba: They make an adorable couple and when I'm wide awake at 2am, playing out Trustshipping scenarios like the cult-fan I am, I always imagine their kids. It's hard not to.
Lace Kyoko: Oh wow thank you! I've been working really hard on being more descriptive in areas I've struggled in. Makes me excited my revamped wardrobing is coming in loud an clear.
Serena Sempgo: Hi and welcome to the fun madness! Thank you so much for giving it a chance and leaving a review.
Tay13: I'm here! I updated! Thank you so much for reading and reviewing. Means a lot to me.
Each one of you! I love you all. Thank you so much for your patience.
Still stands: If I don't get one measly review, no new chapter, however if I do get one measly review, new chapter.
REVIEW!
Well I'm Out.