Disclaimer: I said it already in the first two chapters. I refuse to say it
again. However, I'll get sued if I don't put one in, so I'm going to force
Yami and Seto to do it.
Yami: We're!
Seto: Not!
Yami: Hers!
But, of course, the story, the plotline, and Jamie are all mine. You can't use them.
Author's Notes: This is the grand finale. Be sure to tell me what you think! Now say hello to 'Second Chances', part three!
// Yami Bakura talking to Ryou //
/ Ryou talking to Yami Bakura /
'Thoughts or writing'
~*~
Yami Bakura was in the process of breaking Ryou's nose when Yami and Kaiba made it up the stairs. They almost tripped over Joey, who was still lying on the hall floor, groaning in agony.
"Joey!" Yami cried, kneeling at his side. "What happened?"
"Oh, jeez, it feels like he broke my back!" Joey yelped. "Man! Where's a hospital when you need one?! Ow!"
Yami didn't bother to ask who "he" was. He just sprinted to the open doorway, where the thudding sounds were coming from. His eyes went wide as he took in the scene before him.
Ryou was being slammed face-first into the wall, blood spurting out of his nose, as an identical boy laughed in sadistic joy. That area of the wall was stained bright red, as was some of the carpet. Ryou was sobbing and screaming in agony, which just seemed to fuel the other boy's fury. All in all, it was a pretty twisted sight.
But Yami recognized the boy inflicting the torture. His eyes narrowed as he noted a golden ring hanging from his neck on a leather strap.
He stepped into the room, seething with rage. "Put. Him. Down," he snarled.
Yami Bakura whirled, and his eyes narrowed as well. "You!"
"That's right," Yami growled, taking another step into the room. "Me."
"I should have killed you when I had the chance," Yami Bakura hissed.
Yami laughed harshly, taking another step. "Yeah, well, we all make mistakes."
Ryou, who had been dropped unceremoniously on the floor, was huddled in a corner, cowering in fear. Never taking his eyes off Yami Bakura, Yami motioned to him. "Get out of here, Ryou."
The white-haired boy didn't move. He was too terrified. He trembled uncontrollably, fearing for his life.
"Ryou, go!"
"I-I c-can't."
"GO!"
Common sense finally prevailed over the fear dominating Ryou's mind. He stumbled to his feet, racing out the door.
Yami slowly backed towards the entrance, blocking it with his body. "You're not going to hurt him any longer," he barked.
"He's a weakling! He got what he deserved." Yami Bakura grabbed a lamp off a nightstand and hurled it at Yami, who barely ducked in time.
Just then, Kaiba appeared at the door. His eyes widened, and his jaw dropped. "What the-"
"Kaiba," Yami hissed out of the corner of his mouth, "Get Ryou and Joey out of here."
"Where?"
"Anywhere but here! Now go!"
Kaiba didn't need to be told twice. He bolted down the hall, whisking Joey into his arms and ushering Ryou down the stairs.
Dimly Yami registered the sound of a car revving, signaling Kaiba, Ryou, and Joey's departure. He watched Yami Bakura carefully, staring him down.
If looks could kill, Yami would have been a smoking crater in the ground. Yami Bakura was not happy about having his fun interrupted.
Yami glared right back. "Now, grave robber," he snarled. "It's just you and me."
"I ought to tear off your arms for interrupting me," Yami Bakura growled, taking a step towards Yami.
The Game King didn't flinch. "You won't lay a finger on me," he replied, shaking his head. "You always were a coward, Yami Bakura. But beating up a scared little boy half your size? You've hit an all-time low with that one."
"How dare you insult me!"
"I don't need to insult you," Yami replied, laughing in his face. "You insulted yourself! What's the matter, you couldn't take on anyone bigger than Ryou? Pathetic!"
"Silence!" Yami Bakura screamed, lunging at Yami.
He raced straight toward the Game King, but Yami didn't move a muscle. He simply waited for the right moment, trusting Yami Bakura's rage to overtake his rational thought. And then, when the grave robber was close enough, Yami rammed his fist right into his nose.
The sheer force of it sent Yami Bakura reeling, holding his nose in agony. Crimson blood dripped from the wound, spattering all over his hand. His eyes were wide in disbelief, unable to comprehend the face that he'd actually been hit.
"What's the matter?" Yami asked mockingly, taking a step closer. "You can dish it out, but you can't take it? How does it feel to be on the receiving end for a change?"
Yami Bakura inadvertently took a step backwards, just as Yami had hoped. He moved closer, watching in relief as Yami Bakura moved away, keeping his distance.
After a few more steps, Yami had Yami Bakura backed up against the wall, with nowhere left to run.
"Still running scared, Yami Bakura?" he taunted. "Look at you, cowering in fear. I've seen mice that have more courage that you! Don't tell me you're afraid of me!"
"I AM NOT A COWARD!" Yami Bakura yelled, pulling a knife from a sheath on his belt and swiping at Yami.
The Game King was fast, but Yami Bakura had the element of surprise. The blade connected with his arm, tearing a deep gash in the skin. Yami cried out in pain, giving Yami Bakura the chance to lunge at him and hurl him against the wall.
Deeply in pain, Yami felt hands close around his neck. "Time to correct the mistake I made all those years ago," Yami Bakura snarled.
Yami tried desperately not to gag. The lack of oxygen was making him dizzy, sapping him of his strength. One last attack was all he could manage. One attack and then die.
"I.don't.die.easy." he choked out.
And then, all at once, he lashed out with his foot, kicking Yami Bakura in a very sensitive area. The grave robber staggered backwards, a look of sheer agony on his face. Whimpering, he fell to the ground, fighting back tears.
"Oh.my.gosh.that.hurt." he said in a high-pitched, pathetic voice.
Yami wasted no time in tying up Yami Bakura. He tore the bed sheets into long strips, silently praying that Kaiba wouldn't behead him for ruining his priceless bedroom set. The grave robber tested the bonds, still wincing in pain, but they held fast.
Breathing hard, Yami heaved the white-haired boy onto his back and dropped him out the second-story window. He'd already tied the sheets to the bed, leaving Yami Bakura hanging upside down from the window, ensnarled in linens, still whimpering from Yami's well-placed kick.
The Game King pulled out a cell phone and dialed Kaiba's car phone. It rang twice before the chestnut-haired boy answered.
"What?" barked the voice on the other end.
Yami rolled his eyes. "Gee, touchy, touchy. Should I call back later? Or would I have to schedule an appointment just to talk to you?"
"Yami?! Where are you? What happened? What in the heck is going on?!"
"Um, which question should I answer first?" Yami replied, grinning.
"ALL OF THEM!"
"Okay, I'll go in order, then. Yes, it's me. Where am I? At your mansion. What happened? Let's just say Ryou won't be getting hurt any more. And what in the heck is going on? Who knows? Why don't you come back and find out?"
"Is it safe?"
"No. I'm making this call at gunpoint," Yami said sarcastically. "Of course it's safe, you nimrod."
"You hurt?"
"Got this disgusting, pus-oozing cut on my arm, but other than that, I'm fine."
"That's good. I'd hate to have you in the hospital for a couple months."
"You care that much about me?" Yami asked sweetly, batting his eyelashes.
"Nope. It'd just be a pain to have to find another vice-president on such short notice."
"Gee. I feel so loved."
"You should," Kaiba said. "Of course, there's always my country hamlet with the porch swing built for two."
"No!" Yami almost screamed. "I'm fine! I'm in perfect health! I'll be at work tomorrow, honest! Just not the porch swing!"
Yami could almost see Kaiba's grinning face at that one. "Good. We'll be back in about five minutes."
"See you then."
"Bye, Yami."
Yami was waiting outside, sipping a Coke and watching Yami Bakura squirm, when the cerulean Mustang returned. Joey practically had to carry Ryou out of the car, and even then, it would have taken a crowbar to pry him out of the taller boy's arms.
Kaiba ran over to Yami's side and inspected the wound. Fortunately, it wasn't bad. He'd gotten one look at Yami Bakura before his eyes went wide. "Yami," he said accusingly.
Yami knew he was busted. "Yes, Kaiba?"
"Those are some very stylish ropes you used to tie him up. May I ask where you got them?" Kaiba's tone sounded innocent, but there was a threat disguised there.
"Um.Internet?" Yami said hopefully.
"This is coming out of your paycheck, mister! I can't believe you tore up my priceless sheets! Those things were antiques! Man!" Kaiba exclaimed angrily.
By then, Joey had made his way over with Ryou. The little boy was trembling, just being in the presence of his tormentor.
"Ryou," Yami said softly, "Is this who was hurting you?"
Stupid question. Of course it was. But just the same, Ryou nodded, biting hard on his lower lip.
"Well, Yami Bakura's never going to hurt you again, okay?" Yami glared at Yami Bakura, who shuddered. "He knows what will happen if he does."
"So what did you do to him?" Joey wanted to know. "I would have thought he'd be screaming curses and threatening to kill us all. I'm surprised he didn't seriously hurt you, Yami."
Yami just grinned. "Let's just say I raised his voice a couple octaves."
Kaiba winced. "Ouch."
"That definitely had to hurt," Joey agreed.
"Fortunately, I wore my steel-toed boots today," Yami continued, enjoying the pained look on their faces.
"Ooh! That was harsh, even for you," Joey exclaimed.
"Do you have no sense of decency?" Kaiba added.
Yami shrugged. "Hey, he was trying to kill me. Decency went out the window."
"As did Yami Bakura," Joey observed.
All of a sudden, Kaiba burst out laughing. He leaned against the tree for support, chuckling uncontrollably. Tears of hilarity squeezed out from under his tightly shut eyelids.
"And what," Yami demanded. "Is so darn funny?"
"I seem to remember," Kaiba gasped between giggles, "it was just yesterday that you were nagging at me about dropping people out of windows."
Yami was at a loss for words. His cheeks turned red with embarrassment, speechless as Kaiba laughed at him. "Um.I.er."
"Don't bother," Kaiba snickered. "The look on your face is priceless!"
While the other three were talking, Ryou had found the courage to step away from Joey and walk closer to his Yami.
He didn't know what to say. What does one say to someone who caused them boundless pain? What can be said to melt an ice-cold heart? But suddenly, the words had escaped his lips before he knew he'd said them, their hollow sound echoing as Ryou finally overcame his terror.
"I forgive you, Yami."
Joey's eyes went wide. "Did he just say what I think he said?" he demanded.
"Shhh!" Yami hissed. "Don't interrupt. They've got a lot of things to talk about."
Yami Bakura looked down at his trembling aibou. "You.you what?"
"I forgive you," Ryou repeated, stronger this time. "I don't know why you did it, but that doesn't matter to me. I forgive you."
"I-I don't.I don't know what to say," Yami Bakura stammered, blinking rapidly. "Why would you forgive me after the things I did to you?"
"Because you're my other," Ryou said softly. A lock of hair fell in his eyes, only making him look sweeter and more lovable than before.
"I.I do care.what happens to you." Yami Bakura managed to say. "I-I was angry.I took it out on you. I didn't want you to get hurt like people hurt me. Before I became.this."
Ryou nodded. "I know. I understand."
Yami Bakura seemed to be struggling with his words, unable to say what he wanted to. "How.how can I make it up to you?"
Ryou just stared up at him, perfectly innocent. "I want you to love me. I want you to be my Yami."
"I'm nothing like the Pharaoh," Yami Bakura protested feebly, glancing at Yami.
"That doesn't matter. I want to be your aibou, and I want you to be my guardian. I want you to care about me, Yami, that's all," Ryou replied, eyes hopeful. "Please?"
Well, that could melt just about anyone's heart, even Yami Bakura's. His eyes softened the slightest bit, and his face lost the harshness it had held before.
"I'll try, Ryou, I promise. I'll do my best."
At this, Joey moved to Ryou's side, who promptly ran into his open arms. "Joey!" he cried, squeezing him tightly.
Joey grinned up at Yami Bakura. "You just better take good care of him, you hear? Otherwise, you're gonna have to deal with me, understand?"
And then, surprisingly, Yami Bakura grinned back. "I understand," he agreed. "And I will."
"Awww!" Yami exclaimed, swooning into Kaiba's arms. "That was the sweetest thing I've ever seen!"
"Um, Yami?"
"Yes, Kaiba?"
"Why did you do that?"
"Do what?"
"Fall into my arms like that."
"Didn't you think that was absolutely adorable?"
"Yes."
"So what's the problem?"
"The problem is, we both have girlfriends. And you just swooned into my arms. That's a little bit awkward, wouldn't you say?"
"Oh, come on. Oblige me for once in your miserable life," Yami pouted.
Kaiba rolled his eyes, grinning. "Fine. Next stop, country hamlet porch swing."
"Oh, shut up."
They eventually cut Yami Bakura down. He'd limp for a few weeks, but he'd be fine. The moment he was on his feet, Ryou rushed into his arms. "I'm glad you're my Yami," he whispered.
Yami Bakura looked a little startled, but after a moment he hugged Ryou back. "I'm glad you're my aibou," he replied. "I'm sorry for what I did."
"Gee," Kaiba said to Yami, low enough that no one else could hear. "That must have been one heck of a kick."
"Tell me about it. He sounds like he should be singing 'We represent the Lollipop Guild'," Yami replied, rolling his eyes.
"Certainly tamed him, though," Kaiba noted, watching him tenderly hug Ryou.
Joey stood off to the side, looking a little awkward. "Aw, poor Joey," Yami whispered to Kaiba, a mischievous grin on his face. "All alone with no one to hug."
"Hey, what are you-" But Kaiba was too late. Yami had already leaped out of his arms and shoved him towards Joey. The brunette stumbled forward, tumbling into Joey and knocking them both to the ground.
"What the heck, Kaiba?!"
"It's not my fault! Blame Yami! Like I would ever get near you of my own free will!"
"Shut up!"
"You shut up, chihuahua!"
"I'm already ticked off at you! I can't believe my sister is actually dating you!"
"I can't believe you're related! She's so smart, and you're such an idiot!"
"Shut up!"
"You shut up!"
Yami, standing off to the side, snickered. "Wow, this is a Kodak moment," he said happily. He was well aware that Kaiba would get his revenge, but ah, it was just so satisfying to see him like this, that it made it all worth it.
~*~
Once again, Yami was at work, writing in his journal.
'Gee, that was a mess, huh? Oh, well. I guess it all turned out okay. Ryou seems happy, at least. He's not showing up at school with cuts and bruises any more, and that's a good thing.
Yami Bakura eventually got over his limp. And thank goodness, his voice went back down to the regular pitch. Every time I was around him, I got the urge to start singing "Follow the Yellow Brick Road". Seriously, he sounded like Mickey Mouse or something! It was horrible!
Amazingly enough, Ryou and Yami Bakura have actually found a mutual activity that both enjoy: cooking. Yami Bakura claims he doesn't eat, but that's a lie. I can see it in his eyes: he's a sugar freak, just like me. Ryou taught him how to make brownies, and he went nuts. He actually showed up at my door, at the Game Shop, giggling about how great they tasted. Ick. If I ever get that hyper over something, shoot me dead. Wait, on second thought, scratch that. Every time I hear the word "shoot" I think of.Tea.
Okay, get over that. She's in jail. She can't get you, Yami. Yeesh.
Now, where was I? Oh, yeah. So Yami Bakura likes to cook. Astounding, huh? I was pretty surprised myself, but hey, to each his own, right?
Joey applied for a job here at KaibaCorp. As predicted, Kaiba gave him a job as a janitor. Fortunately, as vice-president of the company, I was able to promote him to my own personal janitor. Of course, after he saw what the job involved, Joey promptly quit. Hey, is it my fault that I sometimes forget and dump moldy pizza and pulpy coffee mixed with pencil shavings in my trash can? I think not!
Kaiba is still negotiating. I'm hearing loud thumps from over head, and a few words that should not be repeated in polite company. Must be going relatively well; he hasn't chucked them out the window yet.
Oh, yeah, and he did end up making the Ritual of Coffee card for Duel Monsters. There's only one in existence, and it's in his deck. Modifies all cards with the words "Blue-Eyes" in their name and gives them a special attack: Coffee Breath of Doom. Gee, wonder which cards that's going to be used on. Ho-hum.
Anyway, I guess everything turned out well. I mean, Ryou's got a loving Yami, Kaiba's got his favorite card, Joey got a job (and then quit), and I got.hey, wait a sec! I got nothing out of this whole stupid deal!
Maybe I need a vacation.'
Kaiba threw open his office door just as Yami was finishing up. "Almost ready to go?"
"Yup," Yami replied. "Just give me a second." He finished writing the last sentence and threw on his coat, chucking the remains of a pizza into his garbage as he did so.
"So that's how you got Joey to quit," Kaiba mused, cocking an eyebrow. "I'll have to remember that one."
"Now, what have I told you about stealing my moves?" Yami replied, wagging a finger at him.
"Just for that, I'm using Ritual of Coffee against you in our next duel."
"Just try it. Because I've invented a card, too." Yami held up a card. The image was deep brown, with a bold red X through it. "Voila! Stop Caffeine. Neutralizes all Coffee-based attacks and turns all monsters that use Ritual of Coffee into staggering, sleepy zombies."
"Remind me why you're my best friend again?" Kaiba teased.
Yami grinned. "I'm just so much fun."
~*~
YIPPEE! IT'S FINISHED! DONE! I'M SO HAPPY!
Yami: swoon
Seto: Oof. How come you keep swooning into my arms?!
Yami: If I told you I think you're cute, would you believe me?
Seto: Not for a second.
Yami: Good.
Me: You two are just big sweeties.
Yami: Ryou's the adorable one. I saw you swooning backstage.
Me: Oh, yeah? What do you care? It was adorable!
Seto: So adorable I wanted to puke.
Me: sad-puppy-dog-eyes
Seto: hastily From the sheer magnificence of it!
Yami: Agreed!
Me: Aw, you guys are so good to me. glomp
Seto: Oof.
Yami: Oof.
Well? Tell me what you think! Review quickly! Joey the Flame Swordsman is ready and willing to torch all mean, nasty, and otherwise cruel reviews. PLEASE READ AND REVIEW!
Yami: We're!
Seto: Not!
Yami: Hers!
But, of course, the story, the plotline, and Jamie are all mine. You can't use them.
Author's Notes: This is the grand finale. Be sure to tell me what you think! Now say hello to 'Second Chances', part three!
// Yami Bakura talking to Ryou //
/ Ryou talking to Yami Bakura /
'Thoughts or writing'
~*~
Yami Bakura was in the process of breaking Ryou's nose when Yami and Kaiba made it up the stairs. They almost tripped over Joey, who was still lying on the hall floor, groaning in agony.
"Joey!" Yami cried, kneeling at his side. "What happened?"
"Oh, jeez, it feels like he broke my back!" Joey yelped. "Man! Where's a hospital when you need one?! Ow!"
Yami didn't bother to ask who "he" was. He just sprinted to the open doorway, where the thudding sounds were coming from. His eyes went wide as he took in the scene before him.
Ryou was being slammed face-first into the wall, blood spurting out of his nose, as an identical boy laughed in sadistic joy. That area of the wall was stained bright red, as was some of the carpet. Ryou was sobbing and screaming in agony, which just seemed to fuel the other boy's fury. All in all, it was a pretty twisted sight.
But Yami recognized the boy inflicting the torture. His eyes narrowed as he noted a golden ring hanging from his neck on a leather strap.
He stepped into the room, seething with rage. "Put. Him. Down," he snarled.
Yami Bakura whirled, and his eyes narrowed as well. "You!"
"That's right," Yami growled, taking another step into the room. "Me."
"I should have killed you when I had the chance," Yami Bakura hissed.
Yami laughed harshly, taking another step. "Yeah, well, we all make mistakes."
Ryou, who had been dropped unceremoniously on the floor, was huddled in a corner, cowering in fear. Never taking his eyes off Yami Bakura, Yami motioned to him. "Get out of here, Ryou."
The white-haired boy didn't move. He was too terrified. He trembled uncontrollably, fearing for his life.
"Ryou, go!"
"I-I c-can't."
"GO!"
Common sense finally prevailed over the fear dominating Ryou's mind. He stumbled to his feet, racing out the door.
Yami slowly backed towards the entrance, blocking it with his body. "You're not going to hurt him any longer," he barked.
"He's a weakling! He got what he deserved." Yami Bakura grabbed a lamp off a nightstand and hurled it at Yami, who barely ducked in time.
Just then, Kaiba appeared at the door. His eyes widened, and his jaw dropped. "What the-"
"Kaiba," Yami hissed out of the corner of his mouth, "Get Ryou and Joey out of here."
"Where?"
"Anywhere but here! Now go!"
Kaiba didn't need to be told twice. He bolted down the hall, whisking Joey into his arms and ushering Ryou down the stairs.
Dimly Yami registered the sound of a car revving, signaling Kaiba, Ryou, and Joey's departure. He watched Yami Bakura carefully, staring him down.
If looks could kill, Yami would have been a smoking crater in the ground. Yami Bakura was not happy about having his fun interrupted.
Yami glared right back. "Now, grave robber," he snarled. "It's just you and me."
"I ought to tear off your arms for interrupting me," Yami Bakura growled, taking a step towards Yami.
The Game King didn't flinch. "You won't lay a finger on me," he replied, shaking his head. "You always were a coward, Yami Bakura. But beating up a scared little boy half your size? You've hit an all-time low with that one."
"How dare you insult me!"
"I don't need to insult you," Yami replied, laughing in his face. "You insulted yourself! What's the matter, you couldn't take on anyone bigger than Ryou? Pathetic!"
"Silence!" Yami Bakura screamed, lunging at Yami.
He raced straight toward the Game King, but Yami didn't move a muscle. He simply waited for the right moment, trusting Yami Bakura's rage to overtake his rational thought. And then, when the grave robber was close enough, Yami rammed his fist right into his nose.
The sheer force of it sent Yami Bakura reeling, holding his nose in agony. Crimson blood dripped from the wound, spattering all over his hand. His eyes were wide in disbelief, unable to comprehend the face that he'd actually been hit.
"What's the matter?" Yami asked mockingly, taking a step closer. "You can dish it out, but you can't take it? How does it feel to be on the receiving end for a change?"
Yami Bakura inadvertently took a step backwards, just as Yami had hoped. He moved closer, watching in relief as Yami Bakura moved away, keeping his distance.
After a few more steps, Yami had Yami Bakura backed up against the wall, with nowhere left to run.
"Still running scared, Yami Bakura?" he taunted. "Look at you, cowering in fear. I've seen mice that have more courage that you! Don't tell me you're afraid of me!"
"I AM NOT A COWARD!" Yami Bakura yelled, pulling a knife from a sheath on his belt and swiping at Yami.
The Game King was fast, but Yami Bakura had the element of surprise. The blade connected with his arm, tearing a deep gash in the skin. Yami cried out in pain, giving Yami Bakura the chance to lunge at him and hurl him against the wall.
Deeply in pain, Yami felt hands close around his neck. "Time to correct the mistake I made all those years ago," Yami Bakura snarled.
Yami tried desperately not to gag. The lack of oxygen was making him dizzy, sapping him of his strength. One last attack was all he could manage. One attack and then die.
"I.don't.die.easy." he choked out.
And then, all at once, he lashed out with his foot, kicking Yami Bakura in a very sensitive area. The grave robber staggered backwards, a look of sheer agony on his face. Whimpering, he fell to the ground, fighting back tears.
"Oh.my.gosh.that.hurt." he said in a high-pitched, pathetic voice.
Yami wasted no time in tying up Yami Bakura. He tore the bed sheets into long strips, silently praying that Kaiba wouldn't behead him for ruining his priceless bedroom set. The grave robber tested the bonds, still wincing in pain, but they held fast.
Breathing hard, Yami heaved the white-haired boy onto his back and dropped him out the second-story window. He'd already tied the sheets to the bed, leaving Yami Bakura hanging upside down from the window, ensnarled in linens, still whimpering from Yami's well-placed kick.
The Game King pulled out a cell phone and dialed Kaiba's car phone. It rang twice before the chestnut-haired boy answered.
"What?" barked the voice on the other end.
Yami rolled his eyes. "Gee, touchy, touchy. Should I call back later? Or would I have to schedule an appointment just to talk to you?"
"Yami?! Where are you? What happened? What in the heck is going on?!"
"Um, which question should I answer first?" Yami replied, grinning.
"ALL OF THEM!"
"Okay, I'll go in order, then. Yes, it's me. Where am I? At your mansion. What happened? Let's just say Ryou won't be getting hurt any more. And what in the heck is going on? Who knows? Why don't you come back and find out?"
"Is it safe?"
"No. I'm making this call at gunpoint," Yami said sarcastically. "Of course it's safe, you nimrod."
"You hurt?"
"Got this disgusting, pus-oozing cut on my arm, but other than that, I'm fine."
"That's good. I'd hate to have you in the hospital for a couple months."
"You care that much about me?" Yami asked sweetly, batting his eyelashes.
"Nope. It'd just be a pain to have to find another vice-president on such short notice."
"Gee. I feel so loved."
"You should," Kaiba said. "Of course, there's always my country hamlet with the porch swing built for two."
"No!" Yami almost screamed. "I'm fine! I'm in perfect health! I'll be at work tomorrow, honest! Just not the porch swing!"
Yami could almost see Kaiba's grinning face at that one. "Good. We'll be back in about five minutes."
"See you then."
"Bye, Yami."
Yami was waiting outside, sipping a Coke and watching Yami Bakura squirm, when the cerulean Mustang returned. Joey practically had to carry Ryou out of the car, and even then, it would have taken a crowbar to pry him out of the taller boy's arms.
Kaiba ran over to Yami's side and inspected the wound. Fortunately, it wasn't bad. He'd gotten one look at Yami Bakura before his eyes went wide. "Yami," he said accusingly.
Yami knew he was busted. "Yes, Kaiba?"
"Those are some very stylish ropes you used to tie him up. May I ask where you got them?" Kaiba's tone sounded innocent, but there was a threat disguised there.
"Um.Internet?" Yami said hopefully.
"This is coming out of your paycheck, mister! I can't believe you tore up my priceless sheets! Those things were antiques! Man!" Kaiba exclaimed angrily.
By then, Joey had made his way over with Ryou. The little boy was trembling, just being in the presence of his tormentor.
"Ryou," Yami said softly, "Is this who was hurting you?"
Stupid question. Of course it was. But just the same, Ryou nodded, biting hard on his lower lip.
"Well, Yami Bakura's never going to hurt you again, okay?" Yami glared at Yami Bakura, who shuddered. "He knows what will happen if he does."
"So what did you do to him?" Joey wanted to know. "I would have thought he'd be screaming curses and threatening to kill us all. I'm surprised he didn't seriously hurt you, Yami."
Yami just grinned. "Let's just say I raised his voice a couple octaves."
Kaiba winced. "Ouch."
"That definitely had to hurt," Joey agreed.
"Fortunately, I wore my steel-toed boots today," Yami continued, enjoying the pained look on their faces.
"Ooh! That was harsh, even for you," Joey exclaimed.
"Do you have no sense of decency?" Kaiba added.
Yami shrugged. "Hey, he was trying to kill me. Decency went out the window."
"As did Yami Bakura," Joey observed.
All of a sudden, Kaiba burst out laughing. He leaned against the tree for support, chuckling uncontrollably. Tears of hilarity squeezed out from under his tightly shut eyelids.
"And what," Yami demanded. "Is so darn funny?"
"I seem to remember," Kaiba gasped between giggles, "it was just yesterday that you were nagging at me about dropping people out of windows."
Yami was at a loss for words. His cheeks turned red with embarrassment, speechless as Kaiba laughed at him. "Um.I.er."
"Don't bother," Kaiba snickered. "The look on your face is priceless!"
While the other three were talking, Ryou had found the courage to step away from Joey and walk closer to his Yami.
He didn't know what to say. What does one say to someone who caused them boundless pain? What can be said to melt an ice-cold heart? But suddenly, the words had escaped his lips before he knew he'd said them, their hollow sound echoing as Ryou finally overcame his terror.
"I forgive you, Yami."
Joey's eyes went wide. "Did he just say what I think he said?" he demanded.
"Shhh!" Yami hissed. "Don't interrupt. They've got a lot of things to talk about."
Yami Bakura looked down at his trembling aibou. "You.you what?"
"I forgive you," Ryou repeated, stronger this time. "I don't know why you did it, but that doesn't matter to me. I forgive you."
"I-I don't.I don't know what to say," Yami Bakura stammered, blinking rapidly. "Why would you forgive me after the things I did to you?"
"Because you're my other," Ryou said softly. A lock of hair fell in his eyes, only making him look sweeter and more lovable than before.
"I.I do care.what happens to you." Yami Bakura managed to say. "I-I was angry.I took it out on you. I didn't want you to get hurt like people hurt me. Before I became.this."
Ryou nodded. "I know. I understand."
Yami Bakura seemed to be struggling with his words, unable to say what he wanted to. "How.how can I make it up to you?"
Ryou just stared up at him, perfectly innocent. "I want you to love me. I want you to be my Yami."
"I'm nothing like the Pharaoh," Yami Bakura protested feebly, glancing at Yami.
"That doesn't matter. I want to be your aibou, and I want you to be my guardian. I want you to care about me, Yami, that's all," Ryou replied, eyes hopeful. "Please?"
Well, that could melt just about anyone's heart, even Yami Bakura's. His eyes softened the slightest bit, and his face lost the harshness it had held before.
"I'll try, Ryou, I promise. I'll do my best."
At this, Joey moved to Ryou's side, who promptly ran into his open arms. "Joey!" he cried, squeezing him tightly.
Joey grinned up at Yami Bakura. "You just better take good care of him, you hear? Otherwise, you're gonna have to deal with me, understand?"
And then, surprisingly, Yami Bakura grinned back. "I understand," he agreed. "And I will."
"Awww!" Yami exclaimed, swooning into Kaiba's arms. "That was the sweetest thing I've ever seen!"
"Um, Yami?"
"Yes, Kaiba?"
"Why did you do that?"
"Do what?"
"Fall into my arms like that."
"Didn't you think that was absolutely adorable?"
"Yes."
"So what's the problem?"
"The problem is, we both have girlfriends. And you just swooned into my arms. That's a little bit awkward, wouldn't you say?"
"Oh, come on. Oblige me for once in your miserable life," Yami pouted.
Kaiba rolled his eyes, grinning. "Fine. Next stop, country hamlet porch swing."
"Oh, shut up."
They eventually cut Yami Bakura down. He'd limp for a few weeks, but he'd be fine. The moment he was on his feet, Ryou rushed into his arms. "I'm glad you're my Yami," he whispered.
Yami Bakura looked a little startled, but after a moment he hugged Ryou back. "I'm glad you're my aibou," he replied. "I'm sorry for what I did."
"Gee," Kaiba said to Yami, low enough that no one else could hear. "That must have been one heck of a kick."
"Tell me about it. He sounds like he should be singing 'We represent the Lollipop Guild'," Yami replied, rolling his eyes.
"Certainly tamed him, though," Kaiba noted, watching him tenderly hug Ryou.
Joey stood off to the side, looking a little awkward. "Aw, poor Joey," Yami whispered to Kaiba, a mischievous grin on his face. "All alone with no one to hug."
"Hey, what are you-" But Kaiba was too late. Yami had already leaped out of his arms and shoved him towards Joey. The brunette stumbled forward, tumbling into Joey and knocking them both to the ground.
"What the heck, Kaiba?!"
"It's not my fault! Blame Yami! Like I would ever get near you of my own free will!"
"Shut up!"
"You shut up, chihuahua!"
"I'm already ticked off at you! I can't believe my sister is actually dating you!"
"I can't believe you're related! She's so smart, and you're such an idiot!"
"Shut up!"
"You shut up!"
Yami, standing off to the side, snickered. "Wow, this is a Kodak moment," he said happily. He was well aware that Kaiba would get his revenge, but ah, it was just so satisfying to see him like this, that it made it all worth it.
~*~
Once again, Yami was at work, writing in his journal.
'Gee, that was a mess, huh? Oh, well. I guess it all turned out okay. Ryou seems happy, at least. He's not showing up at school with cuts and bruises any more, and that's a good thing.
Yami Bakura eventually got over his limp. And thank goodness, his voice went back down to the regular pitch. Every time I was around him, I got the urge to start singing "Follow the Yellow Brick Road". Seriously, he sounded like Mickey Mouse or something! It was horrible!
Amazingly enough, Ryou and Yami Bakura have actually found a mutual activity that both enjoy: cooking. Yami Bakura claims he doesn't eat, but that's a lie. I can see it in his eyes: he's a sugar freak, just like me. Ryou taught him how to make brownies, and he went nuts. He actually showed up at my door, at the Game Shop, giggling about how great they tasted. Ick. If I ever get that hyper over something, shoot me dead. Wait, on second thought, scratch that. Every time I hear the word "shoot" I think of.Tea.
Okay, get over that. She's in jail. She can't get you, Yami. Yeesh.
Now, where was I? Oh, yeah. So Yami Bakura likes to cook. Astounding, huh? I was pretty surprised myself, but hey, to each his own, right?
Joey applied for a job here at KaibaCorp. As predicted, Kaiba gave him a job as a janitor. Fortunately, as vice-president of the company, I was able to promote him to my own personal janitor. Of course, after he saw what the job involved, Joey promptly quit. Hey, is it my fault that I sometimes forget and dump moldy pizza and pulpy coffee mixed with pencil shavings in my trash can? I think not!
Kaiba is still negotiating. I'm hearing loud thumps from over head, and a few words that should not be repeated in polite company. Must be going relatively well; he hasn't chucked them out the window yet.
Oh, yeah, and he did end up making the Ritual of Coffee card for Duel Monsters. There's only one in existence, and it's in his deck. Modifies all cards with the words "Blue-Eyes" in their name and gives them a special attack: Coffee Breath of Doom. Gee, wonder which cards that's going to be used on. Ho-hum.
Anyway, I guess everything turned out well. I mean, Ryou's got a loving Yami, Kaiba's got his favorite card, Joey got a job (and then quit), and I got.hey, wait a sec! I got nothing out of this whole stupid deal!
Maybe I need a vacation.'
Kaiba threw open his office door just as Yami was finishing up. "Almost ready to go?"
"Yup," Yami replied. "Just give me a second." He finished writing the last sentence and threw on his coat, chucking the remains of a pizza into his garbage as he did so.
"So that's how you got Joey to quit," Kaiba mused, cocking an eyebrow. "I'll have to remember that one."
"Now, what have I told you about stealing my moves?" Yami replied, wagging a finger at him.
"Just for that, I'm using Ritual of Coffee against you in our next duel."
"Just try it. Because I've invented a card, too." Yami held up a card. The image was deep brown, with a bold red X through it. "Voila! Stop Caffeine. Neutralizes all Coffee-based attacks and turns all monsters that use Ritual of Coffee into staggering, sleepy zombies."
"Remind me why you're my best friend again?" Kaiba teased.
Yami grinned. "I'm just so much fun."
~*~
YIPPEE! IT'S FINISHED! DONE! I'M SO HAPPY!
Yami: swoon
Seto: Oof. How come you keep swooning into my arms?!
Yami: If I told you I think you're cute, would you believe me?
Seto: Not for a second.
Yami: Good.
Me: You two are just big sweeties.
Yami: Ryou's the adorable one. I saw you swooning backstage.
Me: Oh, yeah? What do you care? It was adorable!
Seto: So adorable I wanted to puke.
Me: sad-puppy-dog-eyes
Seto: hastily From the sheer magnificence of it!
Yami: Agreed!
Me: Aw, you guys are so good to me. glomp
Seto: Oof.
Yami: Oof.
Well? Tell me what you think! Review quickly! Joey the Flame Swordsman is ready and willing to torch all mean, nasty, and otherwise cruel reviews. PLEASE READ AND REVIEW!