~Chapter 3 ~ Hurt ~
Yami Yuugi crossed his arms, leaning against a tree, watching the population of Domino High mill around the courtyard, some talking to their friends, some getting ready to go home. All but one. Bakura. He assessed the pale, paler now, boy. He was moving slowly, his eyes half lidded, carrying his schoolbag in his right hand instead of his left as he usually did, periodically moving to switch it to his left and pausing with a wince. He had avoided gym class, claiming a pulled muscle and had been favoring his left arm the entire day, barely moving it.
Yami Yuugi choked back a snarl. There could only be one reason for this behavior.
Yami Yuugi pushed away from the tree, meandering through the crowd of students standing nearby the wall Bakura had stopped to rest against. He made his way past a few more people, finally standing in front of Bakura. "Hello, Bakura." He said, keeping his voice light. "How are you?"
The boy looked up and gave a smile. "Aa, Yuugi-san, konnichiwa," he said cheerfully.
Yami Yuugi looked the boy over, his face hardening a bit. "You're very good at that, you know." He said, his gaze even.
Bakura blinked a few times in confusion. "Yuugi-san...?" he asked, voice mildly worried.
"Showing your best face first, I mean." He clarified, stern face softening slightly. "How are you, Bakura?" He asked again.
The boy looked embarrassed a moment. "A bit tired," he admitted.
"Hmm." Yami Yuugi offered briefly. "And?"
Bakura blinked at him.
"Your arm, for one. How did you hurt it?" He asked, point blank.
The paler then usual boy gave another embarrassed smile. "I tried to cook when I was tired," he explained.
Yami Yuugi crossed his arms. "You're good at that too." He said flatly.
Bakura blinked again. "At cooking?" he asked, voice confused.
"No, at coming up with acceptable excuses for your injuries." He sighed. "Bakura, please. I want to help you." He repeated, yet again. "How did you hurt your arm?"
"It's not an excuse," Bakura smiled. "It was a frying pan."
Yami Yuugi paused for a second, watching Bakura. "What were you cooking?" He asked, again, eyeing the taller boy.
"Nothing specific, kind of a hodgepodge of leftovers really," Bakura gave a small laugh.
"I see." Yami Yuugi said, still unsatisfied. "What did you do after that?"
"My homework," Bakura smiled. "Are you always this nosey?" he teased lightly.
Yami Yuugi smirked a little. "If I feel the need to be, yes. What subjects did you have homework in?"
"The same ones Yuugi-kun did, we have the same classes," Bakura smiled.
"Yuugi didn't really tell me what homework he had. Care to enlighten me?" Yami Yuugi smiled as well, watching Bakura switch his bag from one hand to the other... again.
Bakura began listing subjects. "I didn't get to finish most of them," he lamented. "But since I told the teacher I was sick over the weekend she wasn't to mad at me," he smiled as he began walking.
Yami Yuugi fell into step beside him. "May I walk with you?" He asked when Bakura finished. "That was nice of her." He said, in reference to the teacher's leniency.
"Un. She tends to feel sorry for me ever since she tried to call my dad," the boy smiled sadly.
Yami Yuugi looked curious for a second. "And what happened then?"
"I told her he was dead and she apologized for five minutes. She didn't notice it on my school records," Bakura gave another sad smile.
"Foolish woman." Yami Yuugi said, a little bitterly, slowing down to keep pace with Bakura. "I know you didn't hurt your leg while cooking, how did that happen?" He said, changing tacks quickly.
"Eh?" Bakura blinked a moment before realizing he was near limping. "Aa, when I tried to catch the pan I lost my balance," he explained with embarrassment. "I made such a mess, it took almost a half and hour to clean everything up."
Yami Yuugi nodded again, more slowly this time. "I see. So what did you eat if you spilled all the food on the floor, eh?" He asked, playfulness in his tone.
"TV dinner," Bakura admitted, blushing slightly.
Yami Yuugi smiled. "I see." He looked admiringly at Bakura for a second before turning away, slipping his hands into his pockets.
"Yuugi-san?" Bakura blinked.
"I don't want to sound distrustful, but I don't entirely believe you." Yami Yuugi said, slowly.
Bakura gave a small sad smile.
Yami Yuugi sighed and continued. "Care to explain why you're so pale, even after having so much sleep and eating? I would think that would make you less, not more."
Bakura gave a small laugh. "I'm always pale, Yuugi-san," he smiled softly.
"Yes, but you're very pale today." He pointed out, reaching over to take Bakura's case from his hand. "If you're hurt, I can carry this for you." He said, looking for a second at Bakura's arm.
"Aa, arigatou," Bakura smiled happily with a small blush..
"You're welcome." Yami Yuugi said gracefully, nodding his head. "So, you want to talk about it, or are we going to discuss your dinner some more?"
Bakura blinked. "About what?"
Yami Yuugi sighed, almost exasperatedly. "I'm concerned for you. That's all."
The paler boy gave a soft smile. "Arigatou.... demo, boku wa daijoubu yo," [thanks.... but, I'm fine!] he near beamed.
"If you say so. But keep in mind that I don't totally believe you." Yami Yuugi said, smiling himself a little bit.
"That's because you're used to dealing with the Ring," Bakura smiled knowingly.
"That may be so," Yami Yuugi said, his expression wistful for a second. "But old habits die hard, and are never truly forgotten."
Bakura gave a small nod, stopping in front of his apartment building. "Arigatou, Yuugi-san," he smiled, reaching for his case.
Yami Yuugi moved the case out of reach. "Will you be all right? Do you want me to come up with you?" He asked, suspicion in his tone again.
"I'll be fine," Bakura smiled. "There's an elevator."
Yami Yuugi nodded slightly. "That wasn't what I was talking about. Maybe I should come with you anyway."
"What were you talking about then? And it's going to take me most of the night to catch up on the homework I didn't get to finish up last night."
"Oh, okay." Yami Yuugi said, suddenly meek, as he handed Bakura his case. "And it doesn't really matter." He shrugged. "Have a nice day, Bakura."
Bakura smiled. "Maybe I'll come over after I get some of my work done...?" he suggested.
Yami's eyebrow raised, as he half-turned toward Bakura again. "That would be nice." He said softly, turning away again.
Bakura watched the shorter boy leave with a soft smile before heading inside.
"Yuugi!" Yuugi's grandfather's voice called from down stairs. "Bakura-kun's here to see you!"
"I'm coming!" Yuugi called from the top of the stairs, nearly tripping over a pair of pants in the hall. "I'll learn to pickup after myself one of these days." He muttered to himself, walking downstairs into the hallway. "Bakura-kun?"
Bakura stood in the entry wearing a layered long-sleeved shirt and looked up to smile at his shorter friend. "Konbanwa, Yuugi-kun. I hope you don't mind that I didn't call before coming over, I couldn't find your number," he smiled embarrassedly.
Yuugi smiled hugely. "No, not at all. I heard you might be coming over anyway." He cradled the Puzzle in one hand.
Bakura gave a small laugh, slowly heading up the stairs with a slight wince. "Sorry about this weekend, I know I took up a lot of his time so you didn't have much," he apologized.
"Oh, it's all right." Yuugi dismissed Bakura's apology. "I didn't mind. You needed his time." Yuugi did not fail to notice Bakura's limping, and he made sure to walk ahead of Bakura, opening the door to his room before Bakura could get there himself, grabbing the pants from the floor on the way down the hall.
"Arigatou," Bakura thanked. "Is it alright if I sit...?" he asked nodding towards Yuugi's bed.
Yuugi smiled again. "Go ahead." He threw the pants in the hamper, closing the door behind them.
Bakura carefully sat on the edge of the bed, giving a small relieved sigh before cradling his left arm across his lap.
Yuugi blinked for a second, apparently in debate with himself... or maybe more than just himself.
"Ne, Yuugi-kun?" Bakura asked after a moment.
Yuugi looked up, seeming a little startled. "Oh, I'm sorry." He grinned and scratched his head embarrassedly. "Just thinking... did you want to talk to..." He trailed off, pointing at the Puzzle.
Bakura blushed slightly. "Un, demo... I wanted to ask you first.... if you minded that I--" the paler boy's blush deepened slightly.
"Yes, Bakura-kun?" Yuugi blinked, rather innocently. "What is it?"
Bakura fidgeted slightly. "Mou hitori no Yuugi-kun ga... suki..." he admitted, not meeting the other boy's eyes.
Yuugi grinned. "Oh no, Bakura-kun. I don't mind at all." He giggled a little. "Why would I mind? You're a very nice person."
Bakura blushed again, looking embarrassed.
Yuugi smiled. "What? You are." He said firmly. "Mou hitori no boku has good taste." He winked at this last statement.
Bakura's blush deepened further and he gave a small smile.
"But, if you wanted to talk to him, that's all right with me." Yuugi added, leaning over to look Bakura in the eye.
"Gomen," Bakura smiled, blush faded slightly, but still there.
Yuugi laughed lightly. "No need to apologize." He closed his eyes for a second and when he opened them again they were a deep crimson color, his height altering slightly and his hair changing shape. "Bakura?" Yami Yuugi asked, looking at the boy on the bed.
"Yuugi-san," Bakura smiled, still blushing. "Konbanwa."
Yami Yuugi waved slightly in greeting, joining Bakura on the bed. "Good evening to you as well. How are you?" He asked, his gaze penetrating.
The paler boy's blush deepened a bit more at the closeness. "Not too bad. I got half of the word done so I decided to take a break to come see you," he said shyly.
Yami Yuugi smiled, taking Bakura's hand in his gently. "That's good. I'm glad you came." He said sincerely.
Bakura smiled, left hand carefully squeezing Yami Yuugi's hand weakly. "Me too. I-- I like spending time with you."
Yami Yuugi intertwined their fingers carefully, watching Bakura. "I do as well, very much so." He seemed to draw closer for a second.
Bakura blushed slightly once more, looking down slightly, fingers moving stiffly.
Yami Yuugi blinked, red tinting his cheeks for a second before he drew back a bit, his gaze following Bakura's. "Are you sure your hand is all right?" He lifted Bakura's hand gently to examine it closer.
"It'll be fine," Bakura insisted, shifting his right hand to tug slightly on the buttoned cuff of the over shirt and the tight sleeve of the shirt underneath.
"Are you sure? It looks swollen." Yami Yuugi reached over with his other hand to pull his sleeve up.
"It's because of the bruises," Bakura said quickly, holding the sleeves down with his right hand. "It looks ugly, the oil was hot when I dropped the pan."
Yami Yuugi nodded a little. "Oh, okay." He removed the hand that had been pulling on Bakura's shirtsleeve. "If you insist." He said, suspicions still lingering in the back of his mind.
The paler boy gave a small relieved smile. "So," he began, looking as if he wanted to change the subject but not knowing to what.
"You said you got most of your work finished?" Yami Yuugi said, scooting closer to Bakura subtly.
"About half," the boy smiled. "I don't think I'm going to do very well this unit," he laughed in a slightly self deprecating way.
"I'm sure you'll do all right. I don't know, but you could ask Yuugi." Yami Yuugi said, trying to be helpful.
Bakura gave a soft laugh. "Normally I help Yuugi-kun with his studying," he smiled.
Yami Yuugi gave a wry smile. "It was just a suggestion. I would help you, but..." He trailed off, shrugging helplessly. "I don't really know how good Yuugi is in comparison to you."
"Yuugi-kun's just always so busy with dueling and you and Jounouchi," Bakura smiled. "He's probably smarter then me." He gave a small laugh. "Anzu-chan always says that the only reason Yuugi-kun's grades are so poor is because of Jounouchi-kun."
"Is that so?" Yami Yuugi grinned, amused. "Yuugi does need to spend more time studying." He agreed, setting Bakura's hand in his lap and watching him, thoroughly engrossed in what Bakura was saying, as if it were the most important thing on earth.
The paler boy blushed slightly at the position Yami Yuugi had placed his hand and shifted slightly to face him, taking care not to move his arm much.
"He really does..." Yami Yuugi said, his voice growing small as he continued to stare into Bakura's eyes.
Bakura's blush deepened and he lowered his eyes shyly from the other boy's gaze.
Yami Yuugi used his free hand to take Bakura's chin, lifting it slightly so their eyes met, leaning over him, his eyes sliding shut as he brought their lips together softly.
The paler boy melted into the kiss, eyes closing blissfully.
Yami Yuugi rubbed his thumb over Bakura's hand gently, the hand on Bakura's chin moving up to stroke his cheek as the kiss deepened somewhat.
Bakura's lips parted slightly as he responded, face heating up slightly.
Yami Yuugi melted into the kiss, more so, his tongue darting out for a second to caress Bakura's lips before he pulled away slightly, breathing quickened. "I'm sorry..." He said, breathlessly. "I shouldn't have..."
Bakura shook his head slightly with a blissful smile. "Ii yo," he assured, leaning forward to resume the kiss.
Yami's eyes widened for a second before sliding shut again, his expression blissful. He leaned into Bakura, his actions a little clumsy as he tried to keep from falling over into Bakura's lap, still holding his hand.
The paler boy's hand curled stiffly around Yami Yuugi's as he deepened the kiss, lips parting once more.
Yami Yuugi slid his tongue inside Bakura's mouth, pressing against him while moving his hand out of the way, settling it and his own hand, gently on the bed beside them.
The paler boy gave a soft sound against the other boy's mouth, his eyes closing.
Yami Yuugi lurched forward a bit at Bakura's tiny outburst, sighing himself. He leaned into the kiss, now almost hungrily.
Bakura returned the intensity, reaching up with his right hand to caress the side of Yami Yuugi's face.
He gave a small squeak as he lost his balance and the pair fell backwards onto the bed and blushed deeply.
Yami Yuugi seemed to take no visible notice, continuing to kiss Bakura, strong hands enveloping the pale boy's face.
Bakura swiftly relaxed into the kiss again, injured arm laying out of the way as he tangled his right hand in Yami Yuugi's hair again.
Yami Yuugi straddled Bakura' slim hips, gaining leverage against the bed and pulling back a little to suck on the pale boy's upper lip, enjoying the feel of Bakura's hand in his hair.
Bakura gasped, blushing deeply as Yami Yuugi pressed against him and gave a small moan, hand tensing slightly.
Yami Yuugi pulled back a little, opening his eyes to look down at the other boy. "Bakura?" He asked, his lips still mere centimeters from Bakura's, his expression caught between bliss and surprise, concern in the mix somewhere.
The paler boy gave a breathless smile, face flushed.
Yami Yuugi took this to mean that he was all right, leaning down once more, kissing Bakura again, his hands idly roving down Bakura's body.
Bakura gave a small moan, arching at the touch.
Yami Yuugi again took this to mean that he was doing the right thing, his hands fingering the hem of Bakura's shirt gingerly as his lips trailed down Bakura's jaw slowly.
Bakura arched again, head moving to show more of his neck, the collar of his shirt falling aside to show the edge of an round bruise.
Yami's eyes widen a little, but he ignored it for the moment, slender hands sliding gently under Bakura's shirt, even as he continued to stare at the mark on Bakura's neck, his thoughts racing.
The paler boy made small sounds, murmuring positively as he lost himself in the other boy's touch.
Yami Yuugi turned away from that side of Bakura's face, closing his eyes once more, hands beginning to push on the edges of Bakura's shirt, fingertips trailing over pale skin.
Bakura arched slightly, lips parting, pale face flushed as he ran his right hand across Yami Yuugi's back.
Yami Yuugi took this opportunity to reclaim Bakura's lips, pushing his shirt up even further now, making a low noise in the back of his throat when he felt Bakura's hand skirting down his back.
Almost unconsciously, Bakura's left hand moved to loosely cover the now exposed tips of the Sennen Ring as well as the small wounds and faded scars under them.
Yami's hand met Bakura's, fingers dancing over the other boy's skin. He leaned over Bakura, whispering in his ear. "You're very good at that." He said, softly, nuzzling against him, his expression troubled.
The pale boy made a questioning sound, eyes opening partly to look at the other boy.
Yami Yuugi shook his head against Bakura slowly. "I'm sorry." He whispered, removing his hand and turning his head to kiss Bakura again, gently.
"Yuugi-san...?" Bakura asked, voice confused.
"I'm sorry for you." He repeated, rubbing his cheek against Bakura's. "I don't know any other way to help you, but I am sorry for you." His voice sounded tired, a little strained.
"I-- I don't understand..."
Yami Yuugi continued to hover over Bakura, trailing his fingertips over the wounds on his chest for a second. "I'm sorry you have... had to hurt." He said, sorrowful. "I'm sorry I couldn't save you then, because I wanted to, because I care." He paused. "And I'm sorry because I can't find any other way to make it up to you.
"It doesn't matter," the paler boy replied. "There wasn't anything you could have done and those aren't the scars that brought me pain."
Yami Yuugi shook his head, blonde locks brushing his face. "It does matter. I don't want to see you hurt anymore. I want to stop you from hurting." He traced his fingers gently over the scars and the new wound. "They bring me pain. Because they hurt you at one point." He whispered against Bakura's neck, his voice catching.
The paler boy's eyelids fluttered slightly at the other boy's breath. "I never felt that pain," he said softly. "It never hurt."
Yami Yuugi kissed him again, trailing up his jaw. "There are other places that hurt, isn't that right?" His hand drifted further up, one hand coming to rest above Bakura's heart as the other pushed Bakura's over shirt from his shoulders.
The paler boy's breath caught slightly.
Yami Yuugi pushed the over shirt down, away from his body, tugging on Bakura's shirt as if urging him to sit up so he can remove it completely.
"Don't--" Bakura put his hands over his shirt, breath coming quietly in a mild panic.
Yami Yuugi looked startled, pulling away again, looking down at Bakura's wide eyes. "Why?" He asked simply, his tone curious, not irritated.
"I--" The paler boy hesitated a moment. "I don't want...." he trailed off, unable to complete the sentence.
Yami Yuugi seemed to diminish for a second. "I understand. It's all right." He drew away, sitting up. "You could have told me about it sooner, you know." He said, voice slightly bitter.
The paler boy blinked, expression confused and hurt. "Yuugi-san....?"
"I understand if you don't want to do this now. I understand if you don't want to do this with me, ever." He sighed. "I don't understand why you didn't tell me, but it's all right."
Bakura blinked again, expression the same. "I don't understand, I-- I just don't want you taking off my shirt..."
Yami Yuugi blinked in shock. "Oh. What about..." He trailed off, shaking his head. "I'm sorry, my misunderstanding. As laughable as that is."
The paler boy just continued looking confused. "Yuugi-san....?"
Yami Yuugi reached over, one hand pulling down on Bakura's collar. "It's okay, Bakura." He said, trying to soothe the younger boy. "I'm sorry."
"Maybe we're not ready...." The paler boy looked up at the ceiling. "Everything's been happening so fast...."
"You're probably right." Yami Yuugi said, stroking Bakura's arm soothingly.
Bakura gave a small smile. "Gomen," he said softly.
You don't have to be sorry. There isn't any reason to be." Yami Yuugi said, tone comforting. "We... don't really have anything figured out right now anyway." He added, an overlay of reluctance lacing his voice.
"Figured out...?"
"Well, I mean, we haven't really talked about this." Yami Yuugi said, nervousness creeping into his words as he continued to move his hand up and down gently. "Maybe I'm assuming there is something to talk about..."
"Like what?" the paler boy asked, shifting to be closer to the other boy.
Yami Yuugi smiled at the closeness. "Like this." He said, indicating the two of them. "Like us," he said, pausing. "The two of us."
"What about...?" Bakura's voice was a bit nervous and his fingers reached out to take hold of the leather of Yami Yuugi's pants.
"Well, what am I to you, Bakura?" Yami Yuugi asked warily, eyes on Bakura.
The boy tried to smile back as if nothing was wrong, but worry showed through. "You're my Pharaoh in shining Puzzle," he joked softly. "Suki na hito yo..." [person I like/love]
Yami Yuugi let out the breath he was holding in. "And you are... my damsel in not-so-distress." He smiled, relief in his eyes. "I wanted to ask..." He said, by way of explanation. "I wanted to be sure it was all right with you."
"That it was alright? Us being together...?" Bakura smiled.
Yami Yuugi nodded. "Yes, that is what I meant." He looked more relieved now, lying down to relax against Bakura.
The paler boy gave a small smile. "I asked Yuugi-kun if it would be okay and he was fine with it, why wouldn't it be okay?"
"I don't know." Yami Yuugi said, smiling openly now. "I just felt I had to ask. I didn't want to step over my boundaries." He said, serious for a moment. "I didn't want to hurt you." He near-whispered, tone soft.
"I know you wouldn't hurt me," Bakura smiled, shifting once more to be snuggling against the shorter boy, eyes closing slightly.
"Not on purpose." Yami Yuugi amended slightly. "I'm afraid I might have done so unintentionally..." He trailed off, resting beside Bakura a bit leisurely.
"How?"
Yami Yuugi looked wistful for a second. "I acted rashly, and I am sorry." He paused. "I didn't meant to hurt you, to take away something close to you."
The paler boy turned to smile up at Yami Yuugi . "It's okay," he assured, reaching up to caress the side of the shorter boy's face.
Yami Yuugi leaned into the simple touch, eyes closed. "Thank you." He whispered.
Bakura leaned up and gently touched his lips to Yami Yuugi's.
Yami Yuugi tenderly returned the kiss, his expression relaxing as he tucked one hand behind Bakura's neck, drawing him closer.
The pale boy's lips parted slightly in invitation as he melted into the kiss, making a soft appreciative sound.
Yami, once again, gently pushed his tongue past Bakura's lips, making a low noise in the back of his throat, his hand tilting Bakura head towards his.
The paler boy's eyes closed, hand gently trailing down Yami Yuugi's cheek to trace the line of the boy's collar, finger tips dipping under the edges of the leather.
This action caused Yami Yuugi to shiver lightly, his grip on Bakura tightening slightly even as he forced himself to keep his hands loose, so as not to hurt Bakura.
Bakura smiled against the kiss and shakily reached up with his injured arm to undo the buckle of the collar while his fingers continued toying with the flesh of Yami Yuugi's neck around the leather.
Yami Yuugi caught Bakura's hand with the hand he himself had free, gently rubbing his fingers against the pale skin, drawing his hand away from the collar a little. He continued to kiss Bakura, biting gently at his bottom lip.
Bakura tensed slightly, expression pained a moment as he moved his free hand to support his wrist.
Yami Yuugi dipped his head a little in a soothing action, rubbing their noses together briefly and gently cradling Bakura's hand, in his, against his chest.
Breath accelerated slightly, Bakura pulled away, cradling his arm to his chest, eyes pained.
Yami Yuugi blinked, pulling away from Bakura a little, a bit breathless. "Your arm?" He asked, running his fingers over Bakura's arm, gently. "Bakura?" He said, hand catching on Bakura's sleeve.
"Go--gomen, I shouldn't have used it," he smiled, voice slightly shaky. "Can-- is-- is it alright if I use your bathroom?"
Yami Yuugi nodded. "Of course. It's right through there." He indicated, pointing in the direction of the bathroom. "Will you be all right?"
"Un!" Bakura assured, getting to his feet, still tightly holding his wrist to his shirt. He gave a small embarrassed smile, tugging his shirt down again before exiting the room.
Yami Yuugi watched Bakura leave, his mind in turmoil. It seemed obvious now that Bakura sported not a burn, but something more serious. He clenched his fist, shaking his head once before standing up.
---
In the next chapter of the Soap Opera: What is Bakura hiding? And what really happened to his arm? How does Yuugi feel about his yami's actions with his friend? The answers to this, and more nookie in the next installment of the Yuugi & Bakura Soap Opera! [Fran: Ooh yeah. Cheeze. Heh. :)]
------
AN from Fran:
Heh, so smut is the magic word, eh? ;) Then you'll all be happy to know there's more of it next chapter. :) And an almost seme Bakura-kun. (muwaHA.)
Anime-fan Meepa: Happy life? In a soap opera? *smiles* But yeah, Bakura needs snuggling. *has YY huggle him*
Bakuraluva: You coudl always read it aloud to them. *grins*
-----
AN from Mayhem:
*waves* Oy, its chapter three already? *blinkblink* Well... okay... enjoy reading everyone. *dazed expression* Le whee!
----
Feed the feedback junkies and review please!
Yami Yuugi crossed his arms, leaning against a tree, watching the population of Domino High mill around the courtyard, some talking to their friends, some getting ready to go home. All but one. Bakura. He assessed the pale, paler now, boy. He was moving slowly, his eyes half lidded, carrying his schoolbag in his right hand instead of his left as he usually did, periodically moving to switch it to his left and pausing with a wince. He had avoided gym class, claiming a pulled muscle and had been favoring his left arm the entire day, barely moving it.
Yami Yuugi choked back a snarl. There could only be one reason for this behavior.
Yami Yuugi pushed away from the tree, meandering through the crowd of students standing nearby the wall Bakura had stopped to rest against. He made his way past a few more people, finally standing in front of Bakura. "Hello, Bakura." He said, keeping his voice light. "How are you?"
The boy looked up and gave a smile. "Aa, Yuugi-san, konnichiwa," he said cheerfully.
Yami Yuugi looked the boy over, his face hardening a bit. "You're very good at that, you know." He said, his gaze even.
Bakura blinked a few times in confusion. "Yuugi-san...?" he asked, voice mildly worried.
"Showing your best face first, I mean." He clarified, stern face softening slightly. "How are you, Bakura?" He asked again.
The boy looked embarrassed a moment. "A bit tired," he admitted.
"Hmm." Yami Yuugi offered briefly. "And?"
Bakura blinked at him.
"Your arm, for one. How did you hurt it?" He asked, point blank.
The paler then usual boy gave another embarrassed smile. "I tried to cook when I was tired," he explained.
Yami Yuugi crossed his arms. "You're good at that too." He said flatly.
Bakura blinked again. "At cooking?" he asked, voice confused.
"No, at coming up with acceptable excuses for your injuries." He sighed. "Bakura, please. I want to help you." He repeated, yet again. "How did you hurt your arm?"
"It's not an excuse," Bakura smiled. "It was a frying pan."
Yami Yuugi paused for a second, watching Bakura. "What were you cooking?" He asked, again, eyeing the taller boy.
"Nothing specific, kind of a hodgepodge of leftovers really," Bakura gave a small laugh.
"I see." Yami Yuugi said, still unsatisfied. "What did you do after that?"
"My homework," Bakura smiled. "Are you always this nosey?" he teased lightly.
Yami Yuugi smirked a little. "If I feel the need to be, yes. What subjects did you have homework in?"
"The same ones Yuugi-kun did, we have the same classes," Bakura smiled.
"Yuugi didn't really tell me what homework he had. Care to enlighten me?" Yami Yuugi smiled as well, watching Bakura switch his bag from one hand to the other... again.
Bakura began listing subjects. "I didn't get to finish most of them," he lamented. "But since I told the teacher I was sick over the weekend she wasn't to mad at me," he smiled as he began walking.
Yami Yuugi fell into step beside him. "May I walk with you?" He asked when Bakura finished. "That was nice of her." He said, in reference to the teacher's leniency.
"Un. She tends to feel sorry for me ever since she tried to call my dad," the boy smiled sadly.
Yami Yuugi looked curious for a second. "And what happened then?"
"I told her he was dead and she apologized for five minutes. She didn't notice it on my school records," Bakura gave another sad smile.
"Foolish woman." Yami Yuugi said, a little bitterly, slowing down to keep pace with Bakura. "I know you didn't hurt your leg while cooking, how did that happen?" He said, changing tacks quickly.
"Eh?" Bakura blinked a moment before realizing he was near limping. "Aa, when I tried to catch the pan I lost my balance," he explained with embarrassment. "I made such a mess, it took almost a half and hour to clean everything up."
Yami Yuugi nodded again, more slowly this time. "I see. So what did you eat if you spilled all the food on the floor, eh?" He asked, playfulness in his tone.
"TV dinner," Bakura admitted, blushing slightly.
Yami Yuugi smiled. "I see." He looked admiringly at Bakura for a second before turning away, slipping his hands into his pockets.
"Yuugi-san?" Bakura blinked.
"I don't want to sound distrustful, but I don't entirely believe you." Yami Yuugi said, slowly.
Bakura gave a small sad smile.
Yami Yuugi sighed and continued. "Care to explain why you're so pale, even after having so much sleep and eating? I would think that would make you less, not more."
Bakura gave a small laugh. "I'm always pale, Yuugi-san," he smiled softly.
"Yes, but you're very pale today." He pointed out, reaching over to take Bakura's case from his hand. "If you're hurt, I can carry this for you." He said, looking for a second at Bakura's arm.
"Aa, arigatou," Bakura smiled happily with a small blush..
"You're welcome." Yami Yuugi said gracefully, nodding his head. "So, you want to talk about it, or are we going to discuss your dinner some more?"
Bakura blinked. "About what?"
Yami Yuugi sighed, almost exasperatedly. "I'm concerned for you. That's all."
The paler boy gave a soft smile. "Arigatou.... demo, boku wa daijoubu yo," [thanks.... but, I'm fine!] he near beamed.
"If you say so. But keep in mind that I don't totally believe you." Yami Yuugi said, smiling himself a little bit.
"That's because you're used to dealing with the Ring," Bakura smiled knowingly.
"That may be so," Yami Yuugi said, his expression wistful for a second. "But old habits die hard, and are never truly forgotten."
Bakura gave a small nod, stopping in front of his apartment building. "Arigatou, Yuugi-san," he smiled, reaching for his case.
Yami Yuugi moved the case out of reach. "Will you be all right? Do you want me to come up with you?" He asked, suspicion in his tone again.
"I'll be fine," Bakura smiled. "There's an elevator."
Yami Yuugi nodded slightly. "That wasn't what I was talking about. Maybe I should come with you anyway."
"What were you talking about then? And it's going to take me most of the night to catch up on the homework I didn't get to finish up last night."
"Oh, okay." Yami Yuugi said, suddenly meek, as he handed Bakura his case. "And it doesn't really matter." He shrugged. "Have a nice day, Bakura."
Bakura smiled. "Maybe I'll come over after I get some of my work done...?" he suggested.
Yami's eyebrow raised, as he half-turned toward Bakura again. "That would be nice." He said softly, turning away again.
Bakura watched the shorter boy leave with a soft smile before heading inside.
"Yuugi!" Yuugi's grandfather's voice called from down stairs. "Bakura-kun's here to see you!"
"I'm coming!" Yuugi called from the top of the stairs, nearly tripping over a pair of pants in the hall. "I'll learn to pickup after myself one of these days." He muttered to himself, walking downstairs into the hallway. "Bakura-kun?"
Bakura stood in the entry wearing a layered long-sleeved shirt and looked up to smile at his shorter friend. "Konbanwa, Yuugi-kun. I hope you don't mind that I didn't call before coming over, I couldn't find your number," he smiled embarrassedly.
Yuugi smiled hugely. "No, not at all. I heard you might be coming over anyway." He cradled the Puzzle in one hand.
Bakura gave a small laugh, slowly heading up the stairs with a slight wince. "Sorry about this weekend, I know I took up a lot of his time so you didn't have much," he apologized.
"Oh, it's all right." Yuugi dismissed Bakura's apology. "I didn't mind. You needed his time." Yuugi did not fail to notice Bakura's limping, and he made sure to walk ahead of Bakura, opening the door to his room before Bakura could get there himself, grabbing the pants from the floor on the way down the hall.
"Arigatou," Bakura thanked. "Is it alright if I sit...?" he asked nodding towards Yuugi's bed.
Yuugi smiled again. "Go ahead." He threw the pants in the hamper, closing the door behind them.
Bakura carefully sat on the edge of the bed, giving a small relieved sigh before cradling his left arm across his lap.
Yuugi blinked for a second, apparently in debate with himself... or maybe more than just himself.
"Ne, Yuugi-kun?" Bakura asked after a moment.
Yuugi looked up, seeming a little startled. "Oh, I'm sorry." He grinned and scratched his head embarrassedly. "Just thinking... did you want to talk to..." He trailed off, pointing at the Puzzle.
Bakura blushed slightly. "Un, demo... I wanted to ask you first.... if you minded that I--" the paler boy's blush deepened slightly.
"Yes, Bakura-kun?" Yuugi blinked, rather innocently. "What is it?"
Bakura fidgeted slightly. "Mou hitori no Yuugi-kun ga... suki..." he admitted, not meeting the other boy's eyes.
Yuugi grinned. "Oh no, Bakura-kun. I don't mind at all." He giggled a little. "Why would I mind? You're a very nice person."
Bakura blushed again, looking embarrassed.
Yuugi smiled. "What? You are." He said firmly. "Mou hitori no boku has good taste." He winked at this last statement.
Bakura's blush deepened further and he gave a small smile.
"But, if you wanted to talk to him, that's all right with me." Yuugi added, leaning over to look Bakura in the eye.
"Gomen," Bakura smiled, blush faded slightly, but still there.
Yuugi laughed lightly. "No need to apologize." He closed his eyes for a second and when he opened them again they were a deep crimson color, his height altering slightly and his hair changing shape. "Bakura?" Yami Yuugi asked, looking at the boy on the bed.
"Yuugi-san," Bakura smiled, still blushing. "Konbanwa."
Yami Yuugi waved slightly in greeting, joining Bakura on the bed. "Good evening to you as well. How are you?" He asked, his gaze penetrating.
The paler boy's blush deepened a bit more at the closeness. "Not too bad. I got half of the word done so I decided to take a break to come see you," he said shyly.
Yami Yuugi smiled, taking Bakura's hand in his gently. "That's good. I'm glad you came." He said sincerely.
Bakura smiled, left hand carefully squeezing Yami Yuugi's hand weakly. "Me too. I-- I like spending time with you."
Yami Yuugi intertwined their fingers carefully, watching Bakura. "I do as well, very much so." He seemed to draw closer for a second.
Bakura blushed slightly once more, looking down slightly, fingers moving stiffly.
Yami Yuugi blinked, red tinting his cheeks for a second before he drew back a bit, his gaze following Bakura's. "Are you sure your hand is all right?" He lifted Bakura's hand gently to examine it closer.
"It'll be fine," Bakura insisted, shifting his right hand to tug slightly on the buttoned cuff of the over shirt and the tight sleeve of the shirt underneath.
"Are you sure? It looks swollen." Yami Yuugi reached over with his other hand to pull his sleeve up.
"It's because of the bruises," Bakura said quickly, holding the sleeves down with his right hand. "It looks ugly, the oil was hot when I dropped the pan."
Yami Yuugi nodded a little. "Oh, okay." He removed the hand that had been pulling on Bakura's shirtsleeve. "If you insist." He said, suspicions still lingering in the back of his mind.
The paler boy gave a small relieved smile. "So," he began, looking as if he wanted to change the subject but not knowing to what.
"You said you got most of your work finished?" Yami Yuugi said, scooting closer to Bakura subtly.
"About half," the boy smiled. "I don't think I'm going to do very well this unit," he laughed in a slightly self deprecating way.
"I'm sure you'll do all right. I don't know, but you could ask Yuugi." Yami Yuugi said, trying to be helpful.
Bakura gave a soft laugh. "Normally I help Yuugi-kun with his studying," he smiled.
Yami Yuugi gave a wry smile. "It was just a suggestion. I would help you, but..." He trailed off, shrugging helplessly. "I don't really know how good Yuugi is in comparison to you."
"Yuugi-kun's just always so busy with dueling and you and Jounouchi," Bakura smiled. "He's probably smarter then me." He gave a small laugh. "Anzu-chan always says that the only reason Yuugi-kun's grades are so poor is because of Jounouchi-kun."
"Is that so?" Yami Yuugi grinned, amused. "Yuugi does need to spend more time studying." He agreed, setting Bakura's hand in his lap and watching him, thoroughly engrossed in what Bakura was saying, as if it were the most important thing on earth.
The paler boy blushed slightly at the position Yami Yuugi had placed his hand and shifted slightly to face him, taking care not to move his arm much.
"He really does..." Yami Yuugi said, his voice growing small as he continued to stare into Bakura's eyes.
Bakura's blush deepened and he lowered his eyes shyly from the other boy's gaze.
Yami Yuugi used his free hand to take Bakura's chin, lifting it slightly so their eyes met, leaning over him, his eyes sliding shut as he brought their lips together softly.
The paler boy melted into the kiss, eyes closing blissfully.
Yami Yuugi rubbed his thumb over Bakura's hand gently, the hand on Bakura's chin moving up to stroke his cheek as the kiss deepened somewhat.
Bakura's lips parted slightly as he responded, face heating up slightly.
Yami Yuugi melted into the kiss, more so, his tongue darting out for a second to caress Bakura's lips before he pulled away slightly, breathing quickened. "I'm sorry..." He said, breathlessly. "I shouldn't have..."
Bakura shook his head slightly with a blissful smile. "Ii yo," he assured, leaning forward to resume the kiss.
Yami's eyes widened for a second before sliding shut again, his expression blissful. He leaned into Bakura, his actions a little clumsy as he tried to keep from falling over into Bakura's lap, still holding his hand.
The paler boy's hand curled stiffly around Yami Yuugi's as he deepened the kiss, lips parting once more.
Yami Yuugi slid his tongue inside Bakura's mouth, pressing against him while moving his hand out of the way, settling it and his own hand, gently on the bed beside them.
The paler boy gave a soft sound against the other boy's mouth, his eyes closing.
Yami Yuugi lurched forward a bit at Bakura's tiny outburst, sighing himself. He leaned into the kiss, now almost hungrily.
Bakura returned the intensity, reaching up with his right hand to caress the side of Yami Yuugi's face.
He gave a small squeak as he lost his balance and the pair fell backwards onto the bed and blushed deeply.
Yami Yuugi seemed to take no visible notice, continuing to kiss Bakura, strong hands enveloping the pale boy's face.
Bakura swiftly relaxed into the kiss again, injured arm laying out of the way as he tangled his right hand in Yami Yuugi's hair again.
Yami Yuugi straddled Bakura' slim hips, gaining leverage against the bed and pulling back a little to suck on the pale boy's upper lip, enjoying the feel of Bakura's hand in his hair.
Bakura gasped, blushing deeply as Yami Yuugi pressed against him and gave a small moan, hand tensing slightly.
Yami Yuugi pulled back a little, opening his eyes to look down at the other boy. "Bakura?" He asked, his lips still mere centimeters from Bakura's, his expression caught between bliss and surprise, concern in the mix somewhere.
The paler boy gave a breathless smile, face flushed.
Yami Yuugi took this to mean that he was all right, leaning down once more, kissing Bakura again, his hands idly roving down Bakura's body.
Bakura gave a small moan, arching at the touch.
Yami Yuugi again took this to mean that he was doing the right thing, his hands fingering the hem of Bakura's shirt gingerly as his lips trailed down Bakura's jaw slowly.
Bakura arched again, head moving to show more of his neck, the collar of his shirt falling aside to show the edge of an round bruise.
Yami's eyes widen a little, but he ignored it for the moment, slender hands sliding gently under Bakura's shirt, even as he continued to stare at the mark on Bakura's neck, his thoughts racing.
The paler boy made small sounds, murmuring positively as he lost himself in the other boy's touch.
Yami Yuugi turned away from that side of Bakura's face, closing his eyes once more, hands beginning to push on the edges of Bakura's shirt, fingertips trailing over pale skin.
Bakura arched slightly, lips parting, pale face flushed as he ran his right hand across Yami Yuugi's back.
Yami Yuugi took this opportunity to reclaim Bakura's lips, pushing his shirt up even further now, making a low noise in the back of his throat when he felt Bakura's hand skirting down his back.
Almost unconsciously, Bakura's left hand moved to loosely cover the now exposed tips of the Sennen Ring as well as the small wounds and faded scars under them.
Yami's hand met Bakura's, fingers dancing over the other boy's skin. He leaned over Bakura, whispering in his ear. "You're very good at that." He said, softly, nuzzling against him, his expression troubled.
The pale boy made a questioning sound, eyes opening partly to look at the other boy.
Yami Yuugi shook his head against Bakura slowly. "I'm sorry." He whispered, removing his hand and turning his head to kiss Bakura again, gently.
"Yuugi-san...?" Bakura asked, voice confused.
"I'm sorry for you." He repeated, rubbing his cheek against Bakura's. "I don't know any other way to help you, but I am sorry for you." His voice sounded tired, a little strained.
"I-- I don't understand..."
Yami Yuugi continued to hover over Bakura, trailing his fingertips over the wounds on his chest for a second. "I'm sorry you have... had to hurt." He said, sorrowful. "I'm sorry I couldn't save you then, because I wanted to, because I care." He paused. "And I'm sorry because I can't find any other way to make it up to you.
"It doesn't matter," the paler boy replied. "There wasn't anything you could have done and those aren't the scars that brought me pain."
Yami Yuugi shook his head, blonde locks brushing his face. "It does matter. I don't want to see you hurt anymore. I want to stop you from hurting." He traced his fingers gently over the scars and the new wound. "They bring me pain. Because they hurt you at one point." He whispered against Bakura's neck, his voice catching.
The paler boy's eyelids fluttered slightly at the other boy's breath. "I never felt that pain," he said softly. "It never hurt."
Yami Yuugi kissed him again, trailing up his jaw. "There are other places that hurt, isn't that right?" His hand drifted further up, one hand coming to rest above Bakura's heart as the other pushed Bakura's over shirt from his shoulders.
The paler boy's breath caught slightly.
Yami Yuugi pushed the over shirt down, away from his body, tugging on Bakura's shirt as if urging him to sit up so he can remove it completely.
"Don't--" Bakura put his hands over his shirt, breath coming quietly in a mild panic.
Yami Yuugi looked startled, pulling away again, looking down at Bakura's wide eyes. "Why?" He asked simply, his tone curious, not irritated.
"I--" The paler boy hesitated a moment. "I don't want...." he trailed off, unable to complete the sentence.
Yami Yuugi seemed to diminish for a second. "I understand. It's all right." He drew away, sitting up. "You could have told me about it sooner, you know." He said, voice slightly bitter.
The paler boy blinked, expression confused and hurt. "Yuugi-san....?"
"I understand if you don't want to do this now. I understand if you don't want to do this with me, ever." He sighed. "I don't understand why you didn't tell me, but it's all right."
Bakura blinked again, expression the same. "I don't understand, I-- I just don't want you taking off my shirt..."
Yami Yuugi blinked in shock. "Oh. What about..." He trailed off, shaking his head. "I'm sorry, my misunderstanding. As laughable as that is."
The paler boy just continued looking confused. "Yuugi-san....?"
Yami Yuugi reached over, one hand pulling down on Bakura's collar. "It's okay, Bakura." He said, trying to soothe the younger boy. "I'm sorry."
"Maybe we're not ready...." The paler boy looked up at the ceiling. "Everything's been happening so fast...."
"You're probably right." Yami Yuugi said, stroking Bakura's arm soothingly.
Bakura gave a small smile. "Gomen," he said softly.
You don't have to be sorry. There isn't any reason to be." Yami Yuugi said, tone comforting. "We... don't really have anything figured out right now anyway." He added, an overlay of reluctance lacing his voice.
"Figured out...?"
"Well, I mean, we haven't really talked about this." Yami Yuugi said, nervousness creeping into his words as he continued to move his hand up and down gently. "Maybe I'm assuming there is something to talk about..."
"Like what?" the paler boy asked, shifting to be closer to the other boy.
Yami Yuugi smiled at the closeness. "Like this." He said, indicating the two of them. "Like us," he said, pausing. "The two of us."
"What about...?" Bakura's voice was a bit nervous and his fingers reached out to take hold of the leather of Yami Yuugi's pants.
"Well, what am I to you, Bakura?" Yami Yuugi asked warily, eyes on Bakura.
The boy tried to smile back as if nothing was wrong, but worry showed through. "You're my Pharaoh in shining Puzzle," he joked softly. "Suki na hito yo..." [person I like/love]
Yami Yuugi let out the breath he was holding in. "And you are... my damsel in not-so-distress." He smiled, relief in his eyes. "I wanted to ask..." He said, by way of explanation. "I wanted to be sure it was all right with you."
"That it was alright? Us being together...?" Bakura smiled.
Yami Yuugi nodded. "Yes, that is what I meant." He looked more relieved now, lying down to relax against Bakura.
The paler boy gave a small smile. "I asked Yuugi-kun if it would be okay and he was fine with it, why wouldn't it be okay?"
"I don't know." Yami Yuugi said, smiling openly now. "I just felt I had to ask. I didn't want to step over my boundaries." He said, serious for a moment. "I didn't want to hurt you." He near-whispered, tone soft.
"I know you wouldn't hurt me," Bakura smiled, shifting once more to be snuggling against the shorter boy, eyes closing slightly.
"Not on purpose." Yami Yuugi amended slightly. "I'm afraid I might have done so unintentionally..." He trailed off, resting beside Bakura a bit leisurely.
"How?"
Yami Yuugi looked wistful for a second. "I acted rashly, and I am sorry." He paused. "I didn't meant to hurt you, to take away something close to you."
The paler boy turned to smile up at Yami Yuugi . "It's okay," he assured, reaching up to caress the side of the shorter boy's face.
Yami Yuugi leaned into the simple touch, eyes closed. "Thank you." He whispered.
Bakura leaned up and gently touched his lips to Yami Yuugi's.
Yami Yuugi tenderly returned the kiss, his expression relaxing as he tucked one hand behind Bakura's neck, drawing him closer.
The pale boy's lips parted slightly in invitation as he melted into the kiss, making a soft appreciative sound.
Yami, once again, gently pushed his tongue past Bakura's lips, making a low noise in the back of his throat, his hand tilting Bakura head towards his.
The paler boy's eyes closed, hand gently trailing down Yami Yuugi's cheek to trace the line of the boy's collar, finger tips dipping under the edges of the leather.
This action caused Yami Yuugi to shiver lightly, his grip on Bakura tightening slightly even as he forced himself to keep his hands loose, so as not to hurt Bakura.
Bakura smiled against the kiss and shakily reached up with his injured arm to undo the buckle of the collar while his fingers continued toying with the flesh of Yami Yuugi's neck around the leather.
Yami Yuugi caught Bakura's hand with the hand he himself had free, gently rubbing his fingers against the pale skin, drawing his hand away from the collar a little. He continued to kiss Bakura, biting gently at his bottom lip.
Bakura tensed slightly, expression pained a moment as he moved his free hand to support his wrist.
Yami Yuugi dipped his head a little in a soothing action, rubbing their noses together briefly and gently cradling Bakura's hand, in his, against his chest.
Breath accelerated slightly, Bakura pulled away, cradling his arm to his chest, eyes pained.
Yami Yuugi blinked, pulling away from Bakura a little, a bit breathless. "Your arm?" He asked, running his fingers over Bakura's arm, gently. "Bakura?" He said, hand catching on Bakura's sleeve.
"Go--gomen, I shouldn't have used it," he smiled, voice slightly shaky. "Can-- is-- is it alright if I use your bathroom?"
Yami Yuugi nodded. "Of course. It's right through there." He indicated, pointing in the direction of the bathroom. "Will you be all right?"
"Un!" Bakura assured, getting to his feet, still tightly holding his wrist to his shirt. He gave a small embarrassed smile, tugging his shirt down again before exiting the room.
Yami Yuugi watched Bakura leave, his mind in turmoil. It seemed obvious now that Bakura sported not a burn, but something more serious. He clenched his fist, shaking his head once before standing up.
---
In the next chapter of the Soap Opera: What is Bakura hiding? And what really happened to his arm? How does Yuugi feel about his yami's actions with his friend? The answers to this, and more nookie in the next installment of the Yuugi & Bakura Soap Opera! [Fran: Ooh yeah. Cheeze. Heh. :)]
------
AN from Fran:
Heh, so smut is the magic word, eh? ;) Then you'll all be happy to know there's more of it next chapter. :) And an almost seme Bakura-kun. (muwaHA.)
Anime-fan Meepa: Happy life? In a soap opera? *smiles* But yeah, Bakura needs snuggling. *has YY huggle him*
Bakuraluva: You coudl always read it aloud to them. *grins*
-----
AN from Mayhem:
*waves* Oy, its chapter three already? *blinkblink* Well... okay... enjoy reading everyone. *dazed expression* Le whee!
----
Feed the feedback junkies and review please!