To Make the Season Bright
By Moonchild DJ and Sukino
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Moonchild DJ: Kon'wa, minna-chan, and Happy Holidays! Here's the second chapter to TMTSB. *glances around sadly* So quiet...'kino-chan is on hiatus, so I'm forced to run commentary alone. *Santa hat droops* No sugared-up Sukino..*sigh*
Anywho, I'm very glad to hear that this ficcie is so well-liked! Being our first season-themed fanfic..heck, MY first season-themed fanfic..it's very heartwarming to know that this fic is a hit! I hope to get the next chapter out before Christmas, so cross your fingers for me!
On behalf of Sukino and myself, thank you very much for all the reviews and comments, they keep us going! ^_^ Let us know what you think of it all, and enjoy! Oh, and sorry for the cliffie on the last chapter..*grins weakly*...heh heh..it seemed to be a good place to stop? Maybe not, if I wanna live longer..as always, we don't own anything of Yugioh! Just this ficcie and its ideas, sad to say...:P Enjoy!
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Seto swallowed again, tear-filled blue eyes searching him. "Why? Wh-who are you...?"
Jou bit his lip nervously, his heart ramming against his chest as he pulled back his hood, looking down. "'Cause I love you.." He glanced back up at him, eyes holding all the fear of rejection he was feeling.
Seto gasped, his eyes widening. That blond hair..the honey-brown eyes.. "J- Jou...?! Oh gods..." he breathed.
"H-hai..i-it's me..." The blond glanced down again, afraid to say anything, his mind repeating frantically. 'Please don't hate me... please...' He couldn't take it if Seto hated him more than he already did..
Seto was speechless for a stunned couple of seconds, swallowing hard. He blinked wide blue eyes a couple of times before chuckling softly. "Well...if this isn't a bit of irony, I don't know what is..." He wiped his eyes again as he chuckled, brushing back some stray tears.
"What do you mean...?"
"Here I was hobbling along, trying to make up my mind, my head and heart set on what I thought were two different people...the one who gave me the wonderful, heartfelt gifts, and the one whose kiss I'll never forget...I was so twisted, I'm surprised I can still speak straight...I was wishing that two people were the same...and they are...!"
Jou's eyes widened in surprise. "Honto...? You aren't disappointed that it's me....the mutt...?"
"In case you haven't noticed, I haven't called you that since before the party, I couldn't make myself. And no, I'm not disappointed...I'm thrilled..." Seto replied, smiling.
"Seto..." Jou whispered, hugging him gently.
Seto sniffled, still touched by the gift, and hugged him back with his free hand, smiling again. "Why? Why did you decide to do all this?"
"'Cause I love you..oh, yeah..you know that guy that helped you yesterday...and dropped off the other present?"
"Hai..."
Jou blushed. "That was me, too.."
Seto nodded as the pieces started to fall into place. "And the "friend" that I'd missed at the party, and the one who left my gifts everywhere and anywhere...?"
Jou nodded.
Seto shook his head in amazement, marvelling at the blond. "How did you manage to do all that?" he asked.
"A lot of sneaking around.."
"You went to a lot of trouble.."
"No, it was nothing...I wanted to do it.."
Seto blushed and hobbled closer as he remembered the words spoken. "Because you love me..."
Jou nodded, biting his lip nervously.
"Well...this time there may not be any mistletoe...demo..." The tall brunette lowered his head, his eyes halfway closing.
Jou's eyes widened in realization, then leaned upward, meeting their lips in a gentle kiss.
Seto purred, leaning into him, his free hand twining into the blond hair. He pulled him closer as all the emotion of the wonderful gifts, the very touch, got to him and transferred itself to the kiss, sweet and soft in its intensity.
Jou moaned quietly, leaning closer as he felt the emotion, not wanting the kiss, the dream, to end.
The older boy moaned softly, shivering as he pulled back reluctantly. He opened his eyes, gazing at him quietly.
Jou glanced back at him, his cheeks flushing with a pink tinge to them. His eyes were wide with surprise and pleasure as he gazed at the brunette he adored.
"....Thank you, Jou...you've really made this season tolerable...and memorable..." Seto murmured softly.
Jou smiled almost mischieviously. "Well, it isn't over yet. I have one last present for you tomorrow on Christmas Day.."
Seto blushed. "...I think I already like the extra present I received tonight..." He raised a hand to touch his lips, smiling at him.
Jou blushed, eyes widening. "Uh...well, it's cold, and getting colder.." He murmured awkwardly. "I don't want you getting sick...we best be getting home.."
Seto nodded, sighing. "Best make sure that Mokuba isn't opening the presents early...though I'm sure he'll be waking me at 5 am for opening them before I go to work..."
"What?!!! You're going to work?!"
Seto nodded. "KaibaCorp never closes...Mokuba goes carolling, and I'm behind the desk..."
"Demo...it's Christmas..."
The brunette boy shrugged a shoulder. "No family to spend it with, gets quiet in the mansion, so I might as well do something constructive instead of being depressed.."
Jou nodded in understanding. "Sounds like my house this year..my Dad is away on business..."
"The rest of your family? Your friends?"
Jou shook his head. "I haven't seen my mother and sister in years...and my friends all went away with their families...so I'm all on my own..."
"I...well...um..." Seto stammered, flushing and rubbing his neck awkwardly. Should he ask what he wanted to ask? Or was he out of line?
Jou frowned, cocking his head. "Seto...what's wrong..?"
"Well...would...would you like to spend Christmas day with me?"
Jou's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? Seto..."
Seto nodded, flushing as he glanced nervously at the blond.
Jou smiled somewhat tearfully, touched by his gesture. He wrapped his arms around him, hugging him. "Seto..."
Seto blushed and hugged him back, nuzzling his hair. "So is it a date, then?" he asked softly.
"Hai..." came the soft reply.
The taller boy smiled, easing him back reluctantly. "Good...how about...say, around 9 am or so?"
"Sounds like a plan...now you get home and off of that leg...it's my fault you are hurt in the first place..."
Seto chuckled softly, smiling at his bossy tone. "Okay, okay..." He glanced down at the gift, still marvelling at the thoughtfullness and care he put into it, then leant down to give him another quick kiss. "See you, then?"
"Hai...I'll be there tomorrow morning.."
Seto smiled, nodding in agreement before turning to leave. "I look forward to it.." he murmured softly. He couldn't help but admire the picture of the blond amidst the Christmas lights and snow falling. Even though he had been already thinking it, he looked even more like an angel. His own personal angel..
Jou smiled, flushing slightly at Seto's look. "Me, too.." he murmured back, waving at him.
Seto blushed, catching himself staring at him. He gave a sheepish smile and hobbled away, clutching the gift tightly to him with a smile. He headed back slowly to where the limo was parked, sighing softly.
Jou smiled, heading back to his house, kicking the snow happily and watching it flutter down as he stuffed his hands back into his coat. "Christmas will be so special this year..."
Seto headed back home, having to shoo Mokuba away from the gifts under the tree affectionately and then headed to bed. He sighed as he lay back, smiling at the ceiling, the smile permanently affixed upon his face at his happiness. How had he gotten so lucky? He wondered this as he fell asleep, still marvelling at the kindness of a certain blond-haired puppy.
********
Christmas morning came upon the blue-eyed brunette getting woke up early by an eager Mokuba for presents. He grumbled and sat up as the black-haired boy bounced on his bed hyperly. "Mmph...Merry Christmas to you, too, kiddo..." he muttered, rubbing his eyes.
"Merry Christmas, niisama!!" Mokuba giggled back as he bounced off of the bed and out of the room. He tore to where the tree and presents were, followed by his shuffling older brother, bouncing eagerly.
********
Jou, meanwhile, woke early as well, too eager to see Seto to stay asleep. He smiled to himself, dressing and leaving the house at 7. "I hope he doesn't get mad that I'm early.." the blond murmured to himself as he trudged through the snow.
********
Seto smiled affectionately as he watched Mokuba tear through the gifts like a mini-tornado. He curled up on the sofa, resting his ankle, when the doorbell rang. He blinked in surprise, frowning slightly. He wasn't expecting anyone at this hour.. "Mokuba, could you see who it is?"
"Hai, niisama!" Mokuba bounded to the door happily, opening it to a smiling Jou.
"Hi, Mokuba..."
"Hi, Jou! Merry Christmas!"
"Merry Christmas."
Mokuba smiled back and opened the door for him, waving him in, shivering at the cold breeze wafting through.
"Thanks.." Jou replied, walking in with gifts in tow. He shrugged out of his coat, then grinned. "Oh yeah..here ya go...." He held out for him a gift, his smile growing wider at the sight of the boy's green eyes widening in surprise and happiness.
"Sugoi! Arigato, Jou!" Mokuba took the gift and bounced back to the living room and Seto with the gift. "Seto, Seto, Jou's here and he looks like Santa Claus!" he grinned, going back to beside the tree.
Seto smiled as Mokuba tore through the room happily and at the news, then glanced over his shoulder as Jou walked in, waving him in. "Merry Christmas, Jou..." he said warmly.
"Merry Christmas..was he calling me fat..?" Jou walked in to lean against the sofa, smiling at Seto and glancing at Mokuba.
Seto laughed. "No, I think he meant the gifts.."
Jou smirked teasingly. "Oh..well, here is yours..." He handed yet another gift to Seto, smiling at the fact that Seto still took the gift eagerly, even after twenty-four of them.
"Arigato, Jou..." Seto smiled at him, taking the gift before glancing over to his little brother. "Mokuba...the gift to the right...no, your other right..bring it here, kudasai..."
Mokuba got up and brought the gift to Seto, smiling.
The blond's eyes widened in surprise. "You didn't have to get me anything.." he protested softly.
"I wanted to..." The brunette handed the gift to Jou, smiling as he glimpsed Mokuba tear into Jou's gift. He laughed softly when the little boy bounced in glee and dashed off to play with his new RC truck. He then glanced back at Jou anxiously.
"Seto..." The blond head dipped as he opened the gift slowly.
Seto smiled as he unwrapped a golden pendant, "KJ" done in amber the exact color of his eyes. "I hope you like it..." he murmured softly.
Jou's eyes misted over as he glanced from the gift to him. "S-Seto... it's beautiful." he whispered.
"It's like the first gift you gave me, ne?" Seto smiled, pleased, fingering his own pendant. "I thought it was fitting..I'm glad you like it..."
Jou smiled back. "Well, open yours..."
The brunette grinned and opened his own gift carefully, wondering what could possibly top all the other gifts he'd already gotten.
Jou smiled, moving a little closer to him, eager to see his reaction. 'I really hope he likes it...' he thought to himself hopefully.
Seto unwrapped the gift, gasping as he spied a framed picture of their kiss under the mistletoe, with the words, ~Mistletoe Kisses, and many more, Seto and Jou, 2002~ done in silver and gold lettering. "Jou...oh..." he breathed, his eyes widening.
"Do you like it..?"
"I love it!!"
Jou beamed proudly, proud of himself. "Good..I'm glad.." Twenty-five gifts in the bag, and he had liked each one.
Seto smiled and reached out, snagging Jou's arm and pulling him closer. He purred, leaning up to kiss him. He shivered when their lips touched, leaning closer. He purred, looping an arm around the blond's neck.
Jou shivered, circling an arm around his waist as he leaned into him, delighting in the touch of Seto's fingers against his skin. He sighed contentedly against his lips.
"Mm..." Seto mumured against him, pulling him into the sofa with him, shivering when Jou purred and pulled himself into his lap, leaning against him. He nuzzled him, wrapping his arms around him as he finally broke the kiss for air. "You are too wonderful for words, Katsuya Jounouchi..."
Jou blushed and shook his head. "I am not...but you are.."
"Me? Hardly. And I was talking about...everything that you've done...you went out of your way to make this Christmas so much more better..."
"I just wanted you to have a good Christmas.." Jou smiled modestly, nuzzling him.
"And I have...thanks to you..."
"Except for me crippling you." Jou sighed, glancing down. "Sorry about that.." he muttered softly.
Seto shrugged. "It's forced me to slow down and take it easy, I don't mind. Even that was okay..." He nuzzled him soothingly, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.
"I don't think it was..I was highly upset at myself..."
"Don't be. It's not anything serious, I'm fine."
"Still..." Jou sighed, glancing down.
"Shush. Don't blame yourself...I want to enjoy this Christmas with you, not point fingers..."
Jou smiled a little at that. "Hmm...okay." He sighed and rested his head on his shoulder.
Seto smiled and nuzzled him, pressing a kiss to his cheek.
Mokuba tore in, zipping around like a little black-haired hurricane. "Big brother, I'm going carolling, okay?" He had pulled on his coat as he talked, dashing to the door with a grin. "Ja, big brother, ja, Jou!" he called as he closed the door behind him.
Jou blinked, still with his head on Seto's shoulder, dazed at the black- haired whirlwind that had came and went. "Ja ne...jeez, he is fast..."
Seto snickered, smiling, used to his hyperactive little brother. "Typical Mokuba..." he remarked.
Jou laughed, snuggling close. "So what are we going to do today..?"
Seto hugged him, sighing. "Right now, this is perfect..." He smiled when the blond cuddled closer.
"Hai.."
"Thank you so much for this, Jou..I couldn't thank you enough..." The brunette told him softly, meaning every word.
"I didn't do much, Seto.." Jou protested.
"That's where you're wrong. No one else knows me so well to do all this and make this season so much better..."
Jou, truly touched by his words and half embarrassed, could do nothing but blush, smiling that he impressed him so much.
Seto nuzzled him. "How did you know so much to get me twenty-five gifts, anyways...?" he wondered. He had enough trouble finding the perfect gift for Mokuba, and he was family.
"I have been watching you for awhile, and I just know what to get you when I see it.."
Seto smiled. "And I loved every one..."
"Good, I'm glad..I hoped you would."
Seto kissed his cheek, nuzzling him, which caused a happy, content smile to bloom over Jou's face. "So..where's the pendant, ne?" he asked softly.
Jou held out his hand, his gift still curled in his palm. "Here..."
The older boy took it from him slowly, then motioned to Jou's neck. "May I?"
Jou nodded, sitting up and pulling his longish hair from his neck with a hand.
Seto unclasped the clasp and slid it around the blond's neck, smoothing his fingers lightly over his neck in the motion.
Jou shivered, closing his eyes and giving a small purr of pleasure.
The brunette smiled at the sound. 'Like that, ne?' he thought to himself. He leaned forward and kissed his neck softly as his hands rested on his shoulders. He then leaned back, smiling at the beautiful picture he made. "It looks good on you..."
Jou flushed, opening his eyes and lowering his hair back to his neck. "Thank you..." he murmured, his fingers clasping the pendant with a smile.
Seto hugged him, purring softly. "Welcome..." he murmured back.
Jou cuddled closer to him, stifling a yawn as he rested his head against his neck.
"Wake up too early?"
"Couldn't sleep last night..was too eager to see you.."
Seto blushed, his eyes widening in slight surprise. "You were?"
"Hai..it was lonely in my house."
"Well..now you're not alone.."
"Nope. Not at all.." Jou sighed contentedly, leaning against him.
Seto smiled, caressing his hair. "I'm so glad you're here...beats staring at KaibaCorp walls anyday.."
"Yeah, it does. Hmm..what to do..?"
Seto smirked. "I can think of one thing at the moment.."
"Which is...."
"This..." Seto purred, tilting his head to kiss him softly.
"Mmm..that I like.." Jou murmured, leaning up to kiss him happily.
Seto chuckled and nipped his lips teasingly. "You would.."
"You hush...like you don't like it.."
Seto smiled devilishly. "Guilty as charged.." he murmured as he kissed him again.
Jou purred, smiling and leaning into him to hold the kiss as long as possible. "Hmmm..I like that alot..."
"So do I..." Seto's voice was husky as his eyes gleamed at Jou in a decidedly-hungry light.
Jou blinked at the look, then crossed his arms. "I won't do anything else though, until your leg is better."
Seto smiled innocently, attempting to look like he hadn't been thinking hentai thoughts about the blond. "And what would that be?"
Jou rolled his eyes, smirking as he flushed slightly. "You know what I mean, mister.." he replied as he poked Seto's chest.
Seto affected a confused look, which melted into a sly little grin. "Mm, maybe you should refresh my memory..." he suggested.
"Hmmm..." Jou smirked and kissed him again. He shivered when the brunette purred, kissing him back, and pulled back reluctantly. "You are trying to trick me.." he accused absently, his head dazed from the kisses.
Seto smirked devilishly at him. "Is it working?"
"No. I will not result in causing you more pain."
The brunette pouted playfully. "No fun..."
Jou shook his head firmly. "Pouting isn't going to get you anywhere, mister. Not until you are better."
Seto blinked and dropped the pout. "For heaven's sake, I just twisted my ankle, not broke it..."
The blond crossed his arms. "I mean it..no.."
"Hmph." Seto grunted, crossing his arms. "I'm not a child, you don't need to treat me like one."
"I just don't want you to get hurt..what's wrong with that?!!"
"Nothing! I just...gomen...I just want to be close to you..."
Jou sighed. "You are..I'm sorry for yelling. I just love you so much, I don't like to see you in pain..."
"But I'm not in pain... only when I walk, that's all..." Seto protested.
Jou frowned, still feeling bad as he glanced down, letting the blond hair fall over his eyes.
Seto sighed, noticing his face. "Gomen...shutting up now..." he murmured, not wanting to upset him.
"No, it's not that..it's just...I feel awful about getting you hurt."
"Don't...it's my fault for running after you and being sleepy, I wasn't paying attention..but I'm not blaming you..."
"But I blame me..because it was my fault."
"Jou, it wasn't your fault, I was the half-asleep one, I was the one who ran like a bat out of hell down those stairs.."
"But you were running because of me.."
"Jou. Listen. It's. Not. Your. Fault. Okay?"
"But it is!!" The blond moved out of his arms and got up. He left the room and sat on the staircase near the doorway. His head dipped, upset enough with himself to start to cry.
"Jou!" Seto sighed, getting up. He balanced himself and hopped over on one foot, his cane still in his bedroom. "And they call ME stubborn..." he muttered as he hopped to where Jou was.
The blond boy was mumbling to himself, sniffling. He kept his eyes lowered on the floor, his knees pulled into his chest. Why did he always have to screw up everything?
Seto plopped down beside him with a sigh and pulled him closer into a hug, caressing his hair soothingly.
"W-where's t-the cane..?" Jou sniffled into his shoulder, his fingers clenching onto his shirt.
Blue eyes glanced at him in concern as he nuzzled him. "Still in my bedroom, I forgot it in the fracas.."
"Y-you w-wouldn't need it if it wasn't f-for me..." Jou muttered somewhat bitterly, silent tears falling down his cheeks.
"Shhhh...I won't need it in a few days, onegai, stop blaming yourself!"
"D-d-demo..."
Seto reached out and tilted his chin up, leaning closer to kiss him. The kiss was gentle and slow and soothing, trying to calm the one who meant so much to him. His fingers reached out to smoothe away his tears as they slid down his cheeks.
Jou pulled away, his tears ceasing at the emotion he felt in the kiss and the touch, glancing up at him. "S-Seto.." he murmured, caressing his cheek.
Seto leaned into his touch, cocking his head. "Nani?"
"Love you...I'm sorry. For making you fall..I'm really sorry.."
Seto shook his head and placed a finger on Jou's lips, stilling them. "Shush. No more apologies, no more blame. It isn't helping..I want to hold you, not argue with you.."
Jou glanced up at him, nodding. He suddenly smiled, licking at the finger placed at his lips, taking it in his mouth and sucking on it.
The brunette blushed, watching him, stunned and flustered. "A-and that isn't h-helping much, either..." he managed to stammer out.
"Mmm..." The blond replied, swirling his tongue around the finger.
Seto's breath caught at the gesture, shivering. "And y-you talk about me pushing th-the envelope..."
Jou blushed and let go, grinning sheeishly. "G-gomen.."
"It's okay...only..."
"What...?"
"Only now..." Seto didn't finish his sentence, only leaned forward swiftly, kissing him hungrily.
Jou moaned, kissing him back. 'Oh, what have I done...?' he wondered dazedly as he wrapped his arms around Seto, holding on for dear life.
The brunette purred, his hands burying into his hair. He deepened the kiss and tasted him with a shudder of pleasure, gasping when the blond nipped at his bottom lip. He moaned, leaning into him.
Jou flicked his tongue into Seto's mouth, shivering when he heard him growl and felt him tug him closer in reaction, his tongue teasing his. He moaned, melting into Seto and hugging him tighter.
Seto wrapped his arms tightly around him, breaking the kiss for much-needed air eventually as he glanced down at Jou.
Jou panted softly against him, cheeks all red from the exertion, though still clinging onto him.
"Ah...gods..." Seto panted, nuzzling his hair as his eyes half-closed in pleasure and in the attempt to get his senses back to working order.
"W-w-wow..." Jou stammered, leaning into him.
"Wow is r-right..."
Jou smiled and nuzzled him. "If only we didn't need air..."
Seto smirked. "Then we'd never leave this spot, if that were the case..." he replied, nuzzling him back.
Jou laughed, curling against him. "Hai, you're right."
"I love you, Jou..."
Jou practically beamed at him. "Love you too...this much!!" The blond held out his arms far apart.
Seto laughed softly and leaned himself into his arms, purring. "Mmm...perfect fit..." he murmured, closing his eyes contentedly.
Jou smiled and nuzzled him, hugging him close. "Always..."
Seto smiled. "Always..I like the sound of that..."
"Me, too..the perfect present."
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~End Chapter 2~
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Moonchild DJ: Well? No cliffie this time, thank heavens..*sweatdrops* But this isn't all! *grin* At the very least, one chapter more, or two..wish us luck that we get it out in time for the holidays! Let us know what you think, reviews are the best. ^_____^ *dances back happily into RP-land, humming a Christmas carol*
By Moonchild DJ and Sukino
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Moonchild DJ: Kon'wa, minna-chan, and Happy Holidays! Here's the second chapter to TMTSB. *glances around sadly* So quiet...'kino-chan is on hiatus, so I'm forced to run commentary alone. *Santa hat droops* No sugared-up Sukino..*sigh*
Anywho, I'm very glad to hear that this ficcie is so well-liked! Being our first season-themed fanfic..heck, MY first season-themed fanfic..it's very heartwarming to know that this fic is a hit! I hope to get the next chapter out before Christmas, so cross your fingers for me!
On behalf of Sukino and myself, thank you very much for all the reviews and comments, they keep us going! ^_^ Let us know what you think of it all, and enjoy! Oh, and sorry for the cliffie on the last chapter..*grins weakly*...heh heh..it seemed to be a good place to stop? Maybe not, if I wanna live longer..as always, we don't own anything of Yugioh! Just this ficcie and its ideas, sad to say...:P Enjoy!
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Seto swallowed again, tear-filled blue eyes searching him. "Why? Wh-who are you...?"
Jou bit his lip nervously, his heart ramming against his chest as he pulled back his hood, looking down. "'Cause I love you.." He glanced back up at him, eyes holding all the fear of rejection he was feeling.
Seto gasped, his eyes widening. That blond hair..the honey-brown eyes.. "J- Jou...?! Oh gods..." he breathed.
"H-hai..i-it's me..." The blond glanced down again, afraid to say anything, his mind repeating frantically. 'Please don't hate me... please...' He couldn't take it if Seto hated him more than he already did..
Seto was speechless for a stunned couple of seconds, swallowing hard. He blinked wide blue eyes a couple of times before chuckling softly. "Well...if this isn't a bit of irony, I don't know what is..." He wiped his eyes again as he chuckled, brushing back some stray tears.
"What do you mean...?"
"Here I was hobbling along, trying to make up my mind, my head and heart set on what I thought were two different people...the one who gave me the wonderful, heartfelt gifts, and the one whose kiss I'll never forget...I was so twisted, I'm surprised I can still speak straight...I was wishing that two people were the same...and they are...!"
Jou's eyes widened in surprise. "Honto...? You aren't disappointed that it's me....the mutt...?"
"In case you haven't noticed, I haven't called you that since before the party, I couldn't make myself. And no, I'm not disappointed...I'm thrilled..." Seto replied, smiling.
"Seto..." Jou whispered, hugging him gently.
Seto sniffled, still touched by the gift, and hugged him back with his free hand, smiling again. "Why? Why did you decide to do all this?"
"'Cause I love you..oh, yeah..you know that guy that helped you yesterday...and dropped off the other present?"
"Hai..."
Jou blushed. "That was me, too.."
Seto nodded as the pieces started to fall into place. "And the "friend" that I'd missed at the party, and the one who left my gifts everywhere and anywhere...?"
Jou nodded.
Seto shook his head in amazement, marvelling at the blond. "How did you manage to do all that?" he asked.
"A lot of sneaking around.."
"You went to a lot of trouble.."
"No, it was nothing...I wanted to do it.."
Seto blushed and hobbled closer as he remembered the words spoken. "Because you love me..."
Jou nodded, biting his lip nervously.
"Well...this time there may not be any mistletoe...demo..." The tall brunette lowered his head, his eyes halfway closing.
Jou's eyes widened in realization, then leaned upward, meeting their lips in a gentle kiss.
Seto purred, leaning into him, his free hand twining into the blond hair. He pulled him closer as all the emotion of the wonderful gifts, the very touch, got to him and transferred itself to the kiss, sweet and soft in its intensity.
Jou moaned quietly, leaning closer as he felt the emotion, not wanting the kiss, the dream, to end.
The older boy moaned softly, shivering as he pulled back reluctantly. He opened his eyes, gazing at him quietly.
Jou glanced back at him, his cheeks flushing with a pink tinge to them. His eyes were wide with surprise and pleasure as he gazed at the brunette he adored.
"....Thank you, Jou...you've really made this season tolerable...and memorable..." Seto murmured softly.
Jou smiled almost mischieviously. "Well, it isn't over yet. I have one last present for you tomorrow on Christmas Day.."
Seto blushed. "...I think I already like the extra present I received tonight..." He raised a hand to touch his lips, smiling at him.
Jou blushed, eyes widening. "Uh...well, it's cold, and getting colder.." He murmured awkwardly. "I don't want you getting sick...we best be getting home.."
Seto nodded, sighing. "Best make sure that Mokuba isn't opening the presents early...though I'm sure he'll be waking me at 5 am for opening them before I go to work..."
"What?!!! You're going to work?!"
Seto nodded. "KaibaCorp never closes...Mokuba goes carolling, and I'm behind the desk..."
"Demo...it's Christmas..."
The brunette boy shrugged a shoulder. "No family to spend it with, gets quiet in the mansion, so I might as well do something constructive instead of being depressed.."
Jou nodded in understanding. "Sounds like my house this year..my Dad is away on business..."
"The rest of your family? Your friends?"
Jou shook his head. "I haven't seen my mother and sister in years...and my friends all went away with their families...so I'm all on my own..."
"I...well...um..." Seto stammered, flushing and rubbing his neck awkwardly. Should he ask what he wanted to ask? Or was he out of line?
Jou frowned, cocking his head. "Seto...what's wrong..?"
"Well...would...would you like to spend Christmas day with me?"
Jou's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? Seto..."
Seto nodded, flushing as he glanced nervously at the blond.
Jou smiled somewhat tearfully, touched by his gesture. He wrapped his arms around him, hugging him. "Seto..."
Seto blushed and hugged him back, nuzzling his hair. "So is it a date, then?" he asked softly.
"Hai..." came the soft reply.
The taller boy smiled, easing him back reluctantly. "Good...how about...say, around 9 am or so?"
"Sounds like a plan...now you get home and off of that leg...it's my fault you are hurt in the first place..."
Seto chuckled softly, smiling at his bossy tone. "Okay, okay..." He glanced down at the gift, still marvelling at the thoughtfullness and care he put into it, then leant down to give him another quick kiss. "See you, then?"
"Hai...I'll be there tomorrow morning.."
Seto smiled, nodding in agreement before turning to leave. "I look forward to it.." he murmured softly. He couldn't help but admire the picture of the blond amidst the Christmas lights and snow falling. Even though he had been already thinking it, he looked even more like an angel. His own personal angel..
Jou smiled, flushing slightly at Seto's look. "Me, too.." he murmured back, waving at him.
Seto blushed, catching himself staring at him. He gave a sheepish smile and hobbled away, clutching the gift tightly to him with a smile. He headed back slowly to where the limo was parked, sighing softly.
Jou smiled, heading back to his house, kicking the snow happily and watching it flutter down as he stuffed his hands back into his coat. "Christmas will be so special this year..."
Seto headed back home, having to shoo Mokuba away from the gifts under the tree affectionately and then headed to bed. He sighed as he lay back, smiling at the ceiling, the smile permanently affixed upon his face at his happiness. How had he gotten so lucky? He wondered this as he fell asleep, still marvelling at the kindness of a certain blond-haired puppy.
********
Christmas morning came upon the blue-eyed brunette getting woke up early by an eager Mokuba for presents. He grumbled and sat up as the black-haired boy bounced on his bed hyperly. "Mmph...Merry Christmas to you, too, kiddo..." he muttered, rubbing his eyes.
"Merry Christmas, niisama!!" Mokuba giggled back as he bounced off of the bed and out of the room. He tore to where the tree and presents were, followed by his shuffling older brother, bouncing eagerly.
********
Jou, meanwhile, woke early as well, too eager to see Seto to stay asleep. He smiled to himself, dressing and leaving the house at 7. "I hope he doesn't get mad that I'm early.." the blond murmured to himself as he trudged through the snow.
********
Seto smiled affectionately as he watched Mokuba tear through the gifts like a mini-tornado. He curled up on the sofa, resting his ankle, when the doorbell rang. He blinked in surprise, frowning slightly. He wasn't expecting anyone at this hour.. "Mokuba, could you see who it is?"
"Hai, niisama!" Mokuba bounded to the door happily, opening it to a smiling Jou.
"Hi, Mokuba..."
"Hi, Jou! Merry Christmas!"
"Merry Christmas."
Mokuba smiled back and opened the door for him, waving him in, shivering at the cold breeze wafting through.
"Thanks.." Jou replied, walking in with gifts in tow. He shrugged out of his coat, then grinned. "Oh yeah..here ya go...." He held out for him a gift, his smile growing wider at the sight of the boy's green eyes widening in surprise and happiness.
"Sugoi! Arigato, Jou!" Mokuba took the gift and bounced back to the living room and Seto with the gift. "Seto, Seto, Jou's here and he looks like Santa Claus!" he grinned, going back to beside the tree.
Seto smiled as Mokuba tore through the room happily and at the news, then glanced over his shoulder as Jou walked in, waving him in. "Merry Christmas, Jou..." he said warmly.
"Merry Christmas..was he calling me fat..?" Jou walked in to lean against the sofa, smiling at Seto and glancing at Mokuba.
Seto laughed. "No, I think he meant the gifts.."
Jou smirked teasingly. "Oh..well, here is yours..." He handed yet another gift to Seto, smiling at the fact that Seto still took the gift eagerly, even after twenty-four of them.
"Arigato, Jou..." Seto smiled at him, taking the gift before glancing over to his little brother. "Mokuba...the gift to the right...no, your other right..bring it here, kudasai..."
Mokuba got up and brought the gift to Seto, smiling.
The blond's eyes widened in surprise. "You didn't have to get me anything.." he protested softly.
"I wanted to..." The brunette handed the gift to Jou, smiling as he glimpsed Mokuba tear into Jou's gift. He laughed softly when the little boy bounced in glee and dashed off to play with his new RC truck. He then glanced back at Jou anxiously.
"Seto..." The blond head dipped as he opened the gift slowly.
Seto smiled as he unwrapped a golden pendant, "KJ" done in amber the exact color of his eyes. "I hope you like it..." he murmured softly.
Jou's eyes misted over as he glanced from the gift to him. "S-Seto... it's beautiful." he whispered.
"It's like the first gift you gave me, ne?" Seto smiled, pleased, fingering his own pendant. "I thought it was fitting..I'm glad you like it..."
Jou smiled back. "Well, open yours..."
The brunette grinned and opened his own gift carefully, wondering what could possibly top all the other gifts he'd already gotten.
Jou smiled, moving a little closer to him, eager to see his reaction. 'I really hope he likes it...' he thought to himself hopefully.
Seto unwrapped the gift, gasping as he spied a framed picture of their kiss under the mistletoe, with the words, ~Mistletoe Kisses, and many more, Seto and Jou, 2002~ done in silver and gold lettering. "Jou...oh..." he breathed, his eyes widening.
"Do you like it..?"
"I love it!!"
Jou beamed proudly, proud of himself. "Good..I'm glad.." Twenty-five gifts in the bag, and he had liked each one.
Seto smiled and reached out, snagging Jou's arm and pulling him closer. He purred, leaning up to kiss him. He shivered when their lips touched, leaning closer. He purred, looping an arm around the blond's neck.
Jou shivered, circling an arm around his waist as he leaned into him, delighting in the touch of Seto's fingers against his skin. He sighed contentedly against his lips.
"Mm..." Seto mumured against him, pulling him into the sofa with him, shivering when Jou purred and pulled himself into his lap, leaning against him. He nuzzled him, wrapping his arms around him as he finally broke the kiss for air. "You are too wonderful for words, Katsuya Jounouchi..."
Jou blushed and shook his head. "I am not...but you are.."
"Me? Hardly. And I was talking about...everything that you've done...you went out of your way to make this Christmas so much more better..."
"I just wanted you to have a good Christmas.." Jou smiled modestly, nuzzling him.
"And I have...thanks to you..."
"Except for me crippling you." Jou sighed, glancing down. "Sorry about that.." he muttered softly.
Seto shrugged. "It's forced me to slow down and take it easy, I don't mind. Even that was okay..." He nuzzled him soothingly, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.
"I don't think it was..I was highly upset at myself..."
"Don't be. It's not anything serious, I'm fine."
"Still..." Jou sighed, glancing down.
"Shush. Don't blame yourself...I want to enjoy this Christmas with you, not point fingers..."
Jou smiled a little at that. "Hmm...okay." He sighed and rested his head on his shoulder.
Seto smiled and nuzzled him, pressing a kiss to his cheek.
Mokuba tore in, zipping around like a little black-haired hurricane. "Big brother, I'm going carolling, okay?" He had pulled on his coat as he talked, dashing to the door with a grin. "Ja, big brother, ja, Jou!" he called as he closed the door behind him.
Jou blinked, still with his head on Seto's shoulder, dazed at the black- haired whirlwind that had came and went. "Ja ne...jeez, he is fast..."
Seto snickered, smiling, used to his hyperactive little brother. "Typical Mokuba..." he remarked.
Jou laughed, snuggling close. "So what are we going to do today..?"
Seto hugged him, sighing. "Right now, this is perfect..." He smiled when the blond cuddled closer.
"Hai.."
"Thank you so much for this, Jou..I couldn't thank you enough..." The brunette told him softly, meaning every word.
"I didn't do much, Seto.." Jou protested.
"That's where you're wrong. No one else knows me so well to do all this and make this season so much better..."
Jou, truly touched by his words and half embarrassed, could do nothing but blush, smiling that he impressed him so much.
Seto nuzzled him. "How did you know so much to get me twenty-five gifts, anyways...?" he wondered. He had enough trouble finding the perfect gift for Mokuba, and he was family.
"I have been watching you for awhile, and I just know what to get you when I see it.."
Seto smiled. "And I loved every one..."
"Good, I'm glad..I hoped you would."
Seto kissed his cheek, nuzzling him, which caused a happy, content smile to bloom over Jou's face. "So..where's the pendant, ne?" he asked softly.
Jou held out his hand, his gift still curled in his palm. "Here..."
The older boy took it from him slowly, then motioned to Jou's neck. "May I?"
Jou nodded, sitting up and pulling his longish hair from his neck with a hand.
Seto unclasped the clasp and slid it around the blond's neck, smoothing his fingers lightly over his neck in the motion.
Jou shivered, closing his eyes and giving a small purr of pleasure.
The brunette smiled at the sound. 'Like that, ne?' he thought to himself. He leaned forward and kissed his neck softly as his hands rested on his shoulders. He then leaned back, smiling at the beautiful picture he made. "It looks good on you..."
Jou flushed, opening his eyes and lowering his hair back to his neck. "Thank you..." he murmured, his fingers clasping the pendant with a smile.
Seto hugged him, purring softly. "Welcome..." he murmured back.
Jou cuddled closer to him, stifling a yawn as he rested his head against his neck.
"Wake up too early?"
"Couldn't sleep last night..was too eager to see you.."
Seto blushed, his eyes widening in slight surprise. "You were?"
"Hai..it was lonely in my house."
"Well..now you're not alone.."
"Nope. Not at all.." Jou sighed contentedly, leaning against him.
Seto smiled, caressing his hair. "I'm so glad you're here...beats staring at KaibaCorp walls anyday.."
"Yeah, it does. Hmm..what to do..?"
Seto smirked. "I can think of one thing at the moment.."
"Which is...."
"This..." Seto purred, tilting his head to kiss him softly.
"Mmm..that I like.." Jou murmured, leaning up to kiss him happily.
Seto chuckled and nipped his lips teasingly. "You would.."
"You hush...like you don't like it.."
Seto smiled devilishly. "Guilty as charged.." he murmured as he kissed him again.
Jou purred, smiling and leaning into him to hold the kiss as long as possible. "Hmmm..I like that alot..."
"So do I..." Seto's voice was husky as his eyes gleamed at Jou in a decidedly-hungry light.
Jou blinked at the look, then crossed his arms. "I won't do anything else though, until your leg is better."
Seto smiled innocently, attempting to look like he hadn't been thinking hentai thoughts about the blond. "And what would that be?"
Jou rolled his eyes, smirking as he flushed slightly. "You know what I mean, mister.." he replied as he poked Seto's chest.
Seto affected a confused look, which melted into a sly little grin. "Mm, maybe you should refresh my memory..." he suggested.
"Hmmm..." Jou smirked and kissed him again. He shivered when the brunette purred, kissing him back, and pulled back reluctantly. "You are trying to trick me.." he accused absently, his head dazed from the kisses.
Seto smirked devilishly at him. "Is it working?"
"No. I will not result in causing you more pain."
The brunette pouted playfully. "No fun..."
Jou shook his head firmly. "Pouting isn't going to get you anywhere, mister. Not until you are better."
Seto blinked and dropped the pout. "For heaven's sake, I just twisted my ankle, not broke it..."
The blond crossed his arms. "I mean it..no.."
"Hmph." Seto grunted, crossing his arms. "I'm not a child, you don't need to treat me like one."
"I just don't want you to get hurt..what's wrong with that?!!"
"Nothing! I just...gomen...I just want to be close to you..."
Jou sighed. "You are..I'm sorry for yelling. I just love you so much, I don't like to see you in pain..."
"But I'm not in pain... only when I walk, that's all..." Seto protested.
Jou frowned, still feeling bad as he glanced down, letting the blond hair fall over his eyes.
Seto sighed, noticing his face. "Gomen...shutting up now..." he murmured, not wanting to upset him.
"No, it's not that..it's just...I feel awful about getting you hurt."
"Don't...it's my fault for running after you and being sleepy, I wasn't paying attention..but I'm not blaming you..."
"But I blame me..because it was my fault."
"Jou, it wasn't your fault, I was the half-asleep one, I was the one who ran like a bat out of hell down those stairs.."
"But you were running because of me.."
"Jou. Listen. It's. Not. Your. Fault. Okay?"
"But it is!!" The blond moved out of his arms and got up. He left the room and sat on the staircase near the doorway. His head dipped, upset enough with himself to start to cry.
"Jou!" Seto sighed, getting up. He balanced himself and hopped over on one foot, his cane still in his bedroom. "And they call ME stubborn..." he muttered as he hopped to where Jou was.
The blond boy was mumbling to himself, sniffling. He kept his eyes lowered on the floor, his knees pulled into his chest. Why did he always have to screw up everything?
Seto plopped down beside him with a sigh and pulled him closer into a hug, caressing his hair soothingly.
"W-where's t-the cane..?" Jou sniffled into his shoulder, his fingers clenching onto his shirt.
Blue eyes glanced at him in concern as he nuzzled him. "Still in my bedroom, I forgot it in the fracas.."
"Y-you w-wouldn't need it if it wasn't f-for me..." Jou muttered somewhat bitterly, silent tears falling down his cheeks.
"Shhhh...I won't need it in a few days, onegai, stop blaming yourself!"
"D-d-demo..."
Seto reached out and tilted his chin up, leaning closer to kiss him. The kiss was gentle and slow and soothing, trying to calm the one who meant so much to him. His fingers reached out to smoothe away his tears as they slid down his cheeks.
Jou pulled away, his tears ceasing at the emotion he felt in the kiss and the touch, glancing up at him. "S-Seto.." he murmured, caressing his cheek.
Seto leaned into his touch, cocking his head. "Nani?"
"Love you...I'm sorry. For making you fall..I'm really sorry.."
Seto shook his head and placed a finger on Jou's lips, stilling them. "Shush. No more apologies, no more blame. It isn't helping..I want to hold you, not argue with you.."
Jou glanced up at him, nodding. He suddenly smiled, licking at the finger placed at his lips, taking it in his mouth and sucking on it.
The brunette blushed, watching him, stunned and flustered. "A-and that isn't h-helping much, either..." he managed to stammer out.
"Mmm..." The blond replied, swirling his tongue around the finger.
Seto's breath caught at the gesture, shivering. "And y-you talk about me pushing th-the envelope..."
Jou blushed and let go, grinning sheeishly. "G-gomen.."
"It's okay...only..."
"What...?"
"Only now..." Seto didn't finish his sentence, only leaned forward swiftly, kissing him hungrily.
Jou moaned, kissing him back. 'Oh, what have I done...?' he wondered dazedly as he wrapped his arms around Seto, holding on for dear life.
The brunette purred, his hands burying into his hair. He deepened the kiss and tasted him with a shudder of pleasure, gasping when the blond nipped at his bottom lip. He moaned, leaning into him.
Jou flicked his tongue into Seto's mouth, shivering when he heard him growl and felt him tug him closer in reaction, his tongue teasing his. He moaned, melting into Seto and hugging him tighter.
Seto wrapped his arms tightly around him, breaking the kiss for much-needed air eventually as he glanced down at Jou.
Jou panted softly against him, cheeks all red from the exertion, though still clinging onto him.
"Ah...gods..." Seto panted, nuzzling his hair as his eyes half-closed in pleasure and in the attempt to get his senses back to working order.
"W-w-wow..." Jou stammered, leaning into him.
"Wow is r-right..."
Jou smiled and nuzzled him. "If only we didn't need air..."
Seto smirked. "Then we'd never leave this spot, if that were the case..." he replied, nuzzling him back.
Jou laughed, curling against him. "Hai, you're right."
"I love you, Jou..."
Jou practically beamed at him. "Love you too...this much!!" The blond held out his arms far apart.
Seto laughed softly and leaned himself into his arms, purring. "Mmm...perfect fit..." he murmured, closing his eyes contentedly.
Jou smiled and nuzzled him, hugging him close. "Always..."
Seto smiled. "Always..I like the sound of that..."
"Me, too..the perfect present."
*****************
~End Chapter 2~
*****************
Moonchild DJ: Well? No cliffie this time, thank heavens..*sweatdrops* But this isn't all! *grin* At the very least, one chapter more, or two..wish us luck that we get it out in time for the holidays! Let us know what you think, reviews are the best. ^_____^ *dances back happily into RP-land, humming a Christmas carol*