Author's Note: It was a challenge writing this since I am an avid JouKai shipper and have trouble imagining this pairing, but I really wanted to challenge myself, so this is the result. But to clarify, I do think these two are cute at times and find Mai an interesting character.
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Jounouchi was a hardworking man. With the charisma and effort, he brought to his work, she could have anything she wanted being with him.
But that's not why she stays. It might have been if you'd asked her a handful of years ago. But she's independent enough that she can provide for herself. Yes, the stability helps and, he's no longer a teenager with something to prove to the world.
But no, she stays because she's in love. She's probably been in love with him for years. But she isn't sure the exact moment.
Somewhere in between seeing him look out for his sister, dedicate himself to his friends and his willingness to give his soul for hers. He'd proven himself to be a man of honor time and time again.
It'd taken Mai time to value that. She'd been alone for so long, unable to rely on anyone.
It'd taken Mai time as well to find herself again after Yami Marik's abuse and her time with Dartz, but she'd come back. She'd promised herself she'd face Jounouchi again after everything he'd done for her, and she had. And he'd welcomed her back with arms wide open, grateful his friend was back to herself, if not better.
And she was better, better than she'd ever been. She'd banished Marik's ghost and made a true path for herself as a duelist, no longer just chasing empty dreams.
And Jounouchi joined her along the way. They went from one tournament to the next, facing off when they needed to. They'd bicker as always, but Mai never forgot his heart, so kind and strong. And when she kissed him for the first time, she told him as much, both drunk on the high of a win.
Then, finally it was at a tournament in Vegas, after some false starts, that he told her, told her that he loved her. And she, remembering the lessons of their youth, told him the truth. That she returned his affection. Because she understood, that what was between them, was precious. Whether they were friends or lovers.
And now they'd found a steady life for themselves. Something that worked for them, with dueling never far from their agendas.
And one day, Mai realized, she had nothing to chase anymore, because had everything she wanted.