Hallo all. Sorries for the long wait, this chapter took a long time to
type. I wanted it to be perfect, so yeah. Anywayz, these next two chapters
are very fluffy for all you fellow hopeless romantics out there, so hope
you enjoy! ^____^
(P.S: I don't own any of the songs that are in here, and there are a LOT of them. They belong to their respective owners, whoever they are, 'cause some of these carols are really old. But still wonderful. ^____^)
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The next morning everyone slept late. Mai and Serenity were the first to arrive, grinning at a dishevelled Kurry, who was still in her bathrobe. Soon, however, the mansion was bustling with activity. As promised, Seren and Kitty hustled Seto down to Ryou's and left him there. Then the dressing began.
They started by showering and Mai did manicures for everyone. Then they all worked on one girl until that girl was finished, then they'd start on the next girl. With styling hair and everything it took most of the afternoon, then they ran through the plan for introducing themselves in a formidable fashion. All the girls were anxious and nervous, but they steeled themselves and prepared.
Meanwhile, the guys were preparing as well. They'd all chosen either black or navy blue sports jackets and slacks with white shirts. A few of the guys had chosen to wear ties, but it turned out the only one who could tie them was Bakura. Yami had a lot of trouble with his, as he insisted he could "do it himself." It ended up wrapped around his head like a bandana before he relented and let Bakura do it for him. Yugi was hysterical.
Malik stood by the window, gazing absently in the direction he knew Seto's house to be. He held the box in one hand, absently stroking the velvet with his thumb. Seto came up behind him. Smirking a little at the amethyst-eyed boy, he said, 'You know, Christmas IS the season of perpetual hope.'
Malik grinned. 'Yeah, I know.' He glanced down at the box. 'I just wish...'
'Wish what?' Seto cocked his head to one side.
'I wish I knew. One way or the other. I mean, what if she's just not ready? I don't want to rush her, you know?' He sighed.
Seto tried to find the right words. 'Maybe...maybe she's just...wary. Something could've happened before. You can't know unless you try.'
Malik nodded. I guess you're right. I'll find out tonight anyways.'
Ryou stuck his head in the room. 'Oy, guess what Bakura found in the mailbox? Our invitations. Now we know where Kat went yesterday. They say 6:00 and its 5:45 right now. C'mon, we're getting ready to go.'
Malik replaced the box in his pocket. Taking a deep breath, he glanced upwards as if asking for Ra's help, then followed Seto out to the hall.
Promptly at 6:00 they arrived at the mansion. Showing their invitations to the footman at the door, they were let in and another footman took their coats. Then a third footman came and led them towards the ballroom.
'Feels weird to be escorted in my own house,' Seto muttered. Yugi chuckled nervously.
Yami and Joey let out low whistles as they entered the ballroom. The girls sure had done a magnificent job. Seto's eyebrows rose so high they disappeared into his hairline as he gently touched the frosted walls. 'Wow, wonder how they did that?' Yugi and Yami caught hold of Joey as he leapt for the food table. 'Behave!' Yami hissed.
'Sorry.'
The guys moved quietly, almost reverently into the room, admiring the decorations. None of them noticed two sets of eyes peeking out from behind the green curtain.
'Gods, don't they all look just wonderful?' Kitty whispered to Seren.
'Yeah. Oh look, my brother is actually behaving.'
'Why wouldn't he?'
'I mean he's not trying to stuff the entire food table down his gullet.'
Isis and Kat were doing a last minute touch-up on Tea, who was to go out first. Isis clasped her hands. 'Oh, you look simply darling. Be brave now, keep your head up and Yugi is going to flip!'
'Oh stoppit.' Tea was blushing already.
'Oy! We're ready.'
Tea stepped in front of the closed curtains. Isis and Kat dashed to the ropes that would pull the curtains aside. Kitty used the long-range remote to hit play and Kat and Isis slowly raised the curtains.
"Chestnuts roasting on an open fire,
Jack Frost nipping at your nose.
Yuletide carols, being sung by a choir,
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
Everybody knows
A turkey and some mistletoe,
Help to make the season bright.
Tiny tots, with their eyes all aglow,
Will find it hard to sleep, tonight.
They know that Santa's on his way,
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh.
And every mother's child is gonna smile,
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
And so, I'm offering this simple phrase,
To kids from one to ninety-two.
Although it's been said, many times, many ways,
Merry Christmas to you.
Although it's been said, many times, many ways,
Merry Christmas to you."
Yugi's eyes bugged out as Tea stepped forward. She was looking lovely in a soft yellow dress, low heels and her usual bangles. She even had a sprig of holly tucked behind one ear. Yugi offered his hand as she came towards him and Tea took it, a light blush gracing her cheeks.
'Wow Tea, you look great!' Yugi complimented her. The blush deepened.
'Thanks, so do you.'
Kitty grinned behind the curtain. 'She's a hit. I've never seen Yugi's eyes get so big.' She turned back to the others. 'Okay, who's next?'
Seto had gotten a drink and was sipping it while listening to Bakura. Suddenly, Bakura's eyebrows went up and he abruptly took Seto's cup away. 'Hey, I was drinking that!' Seto protested.
'Yeah, but I didn't want you to drop it.'
'Huh?'
Bakura motioned behind Seto. Seto turned and gulped as the curtains rose again.
"Silent Night,
Holy Night,
All is calm, all is bright.
Round yon virgin Mother and Child,
Holy infant so tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Sleep in heavenly peace."
Seto was speechless as he watched Serenity come nearer. She giggled a little at the look on his face as he took in her pale pink gown and long hair done up in a bun but flowing down to her waist underneath. Still speechless, Seto could only gape as Seren took his arm. 'It's alright. The look on your face is enough.' Seto suddenly grinned. Glancing back at Bakura, he mouthed, 'Thanks' as Seren led him away. Bakura raised Seto's cup in a kind of 'cheers'...and then drank out of it by mistake. Making a face, he set the cup down and went to find Malik.
Behind the curtain, Kitty and Kat were trying desperately not to make any noise as they laughed their heads off at Bakura. Kurry came out of the dressing room just then. 'What's so funny?'
'Bakura,' Kat gasped, tears of laughter streaming down her face.
Kurry cocked an eyebrow. 'Oookayyy, I DON'T want to know.'
'Who's going next?'
"City sidewalks, pretty sidewalks,
Dressed in holiday style,
In the air there's a feeling of Christmas.
Children laughing, people passing,
Meeting smile after smile,
And on every street corner you hear,
Silver Bells,
Silver Bells,
It's Christmas time in the city.
Ring-a-ling,
Hear them ring,
Soon it will be Christmas Day."
Bakura paused in the middle of the floor. He knew that tune. It was Kat's favourite Christmas carol, which could only mean one thing. He turned towards the curtains, grinning as his koi came out, dressed in dazzling green. She sauntered right up to him and he kissed her in greeting. 'You look spectacular,' Bakura said huskily. Kat got those shivers again. Bakura gently took her hand and led her over to where Malik was nervously standing on one foot, then the other, unknowing of when Kurry would make an appearance.
Behind the curtain, Kitty and Isis were trying to convince Kurry to do just that.
'But I'm not sure I can go out there,' Kurry protested.
Isis took her by the shoulders and looked her right in the eye. 'Listen to me. Tonight you are going to go out there and have the time of your life. This was your idea. Now uphold it. Only, when you get to him, give my brother a moment to catch his breath. I know him very well and you must not take his silence as doubt. Understood?'
Kurry nodded. 'Alright, but I dunno what good it'll do.'
Kitty pumped her fist in the air. 'Get out there and knock 'em dead, girl!' And she hit play.
"O Holy Night,
The stars are brightly shining.
It is the Night of our Dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world, in sin and deprivation.
Then he appeared,
And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices.
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees.
Oh hear, the angel voices.
Oh Night Divine
Oh Night, when Christ was born.
Oh Night Divine
Oh Night, Oh Night Divine"
Malik was talking to Bakura and Kat when Kat gasped and said softly, 'Malik. Turn around.'
He did so, inhaling sharply at the sight of her. Her hair was pulled back a bit, the bangs into a small ponytail at the back, the rest falling about her face in golden waves. Her sky-blue gown was off both shoulders and left her arms bare, while the skirt flowed down about her ankles. She took his breath away. He felt his jaw drop involuntarily as she made her way amongst their friends to him. Amethyst eyes met sapphire and she smiled.
'Hey.'
He gulped, trying to find his voice. It came to him all of a sudden, nearly choked him, but he managed to gasp out, 'You look absolutely stunning.' Kurry flushed and looked away. She thought Malik looked particularly amazing himself, but was much to shy to say so.
'D'you want a drink?'
'Sure.'
And with that the constriction in his throat loosened and he could speak again. Thank Ra for that.
Joey was at the food table when they went for their drinks. 'Oy, Joey, shouldn't you wait for Mai?' Kurry asked her guarded.
Joey looked guilty. 'Er, yeah, but I was so excited earlier I forgot to eat. You look very nice by the way.' Kurry raised an eyebrow at that and Malik chuckled.
Just then, Kurry recognised the beginning beat of Mai's carol. 'Uh oh Joey, guess who's next?'
Joey gulped as he recognised the beat as well.
"Santa baby, slip a sable under the tree, for me
I've been an awful good girl
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Santa baby, an out-of-space convertible too, light blue
I'll wait up for you dear
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Think of all the fun I've missed
Think of all the fellas that I haven't kissed
Next year I could be oh so good
If you'd check off my Christmas list
Boo doo bee doo
Santa honey, I wanna yacht and really that's not a lot
I've been an angel all year
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Santa cutie, there's one thing I really do need, the deed to a platinum mine
Santa cutie, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Santa baby, I'm filling my stocking with a duplex, and checks, sign your 'X' on the line
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany's
I really do believe in you
Let's see if you believe in me
Boo doo bee doo
Santa baby, forgot to mention one little thing, a ring
I don't mean a phone
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Hurry down the chimney tonight
Hurry down the chimney tonight"
Mai sauntered leisurely over to Joey, whose eyes had bugged out. 'Hallo Joseph.'
'Er, hi!' Gah! His voice had gone all squeaky! 'Er, I mean, hi,' he repeated, trying for a deeper note. Mai giggled and took him by the arm. 'Never mind hon, let's go eat.' Joey beamed. (Sorries, couldn't resist. XD)
Yami was quietly chortling to himself nearby. 'Didn't know Joey could hit that high of a note,' he grinned as he turned towards the curtain...and promptly choked.
"Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Let your heart be light,
From now on our troubles will be out of sight.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Make your Yuletide gay,
From now on our troubles will be miles away.
Here we are as in olden days,
Happy golden days are yours,
Faithful friends who are dear to us,
Gather near to us, once more.
Through the years we all will be together,
If the fates allow,
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough,
And have yourself a merry little Christmas now.
And have yourself a merry little Christmas now."
Isis walked sedately over to him, looking regal in a soft red dress whose straps ran around the back of her neck and her hair had two braids woven with gold framing her face. Yami's jaw dropped. Two words. Egyptian Goddess.
'Wow,' he breathed. Isis blushed. 'You're looking pretty fine yourself, my Pharaoh.' He went scarlet at that, but gathered himself enough to say, 'Thank you. Shall we?' and motioned at the drink table. Isis nodded.
Ryou was absently leaning with his back against the wall near the green curtains. Wondering how Kitty was going to raise the curtains for herself, he was surprised when he heard his favourite carol start up and wondered if it was a coincidence.
"Come they told me,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
A new-born king to see,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
Our finest gifts we bring,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
To lay before the King,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum.
So to honour him,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
When we come.
Baby Jesus,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I am a poor boy too,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I have no gift to bring,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
That's fit to give our King,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum.
Shall I play for you?
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
On my drum.
Mary nodded,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
The ox and lamb kept time,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I played my drum for him,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I played my best for him,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum.
Then He smiled at me,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
Me and my drum.
Kitty slipped unceremoniously out from behind the curtains. Scanning the room for Ryou, she suddenly caught sight of him and sidled over.
'Hiya Ryou.'
He tried to remain calm, but his heart was thumping loudly in his ears. 'Hiya. You look lovely,' he replied, taking her hand in his. Kitty smiled shyly, thinking he looked rather dashing in his "suit", with his white hair and soft British accent. He pulled her over a little closer. 'I like the décor. Who did it?'
'Me and Kurry.'
'This is great. Say, d'you have any good dancing songs in that stereo?'
Kitty nodded. 'Hang on, I left the remote back of the curtain.' She went to get it.
When she returned, Ryou took a deep breath, bowed and said, 'May I have this dance?' Kitty blushed a little but took the proffered hand and followed Ryou out onto the dance floor.
"Sleighbells ring, are you listenin'?
In the lane snow is glist'nin'
A beautiful sight
We're happy tonight
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
Soon other couples joined them on the floor. Kitty twirled happily, giving a small gasp as Ryou caught her neatly in his arms.
"Gone away is the bluebird
Here to stay is the new bird
He sings a love song
As we go along
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
Kurry and Malik had opted to stay out of this dance. Kurry watched her dear friends, smiling, then her eyes lit up and she giggled. 'Look at that!' She pointed at Seto and Serenity. They appeared to be dancing, but if you looked closely you saw that Seren was actually standing ON Seto's feet and he was doing all the steps. Seren was giggling madly and even Seto couldn't keep a straight face. It was very kawaii.
"In the meadow we can build a snowman
Then pretend that he is Parson Brown
He'll say, "Are you married?"
We'll say, "No, man!
But you can do the job when you're in town!"
Later on we'll conspire
As we dream by the fire
To face unafraid
The plans that we made
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
Yami and Isis swirled past, Yami grinning like a loon and Isis beaming. Isis winked at her brother when Kurry wasn't looking, causing him to blush. Yugi and Tea were trying their hand at ballroom dancing as well, although you could catch Tea wincing every once in a while when Yugi stepped on her foot.
"In the meadow we can build a snowman
And pretend that he's a circus clown
We'll have lots of fun with Mr. Snowman
Until the other kiddies knock him down!
When it snows, ain't it thrillin'
Though your nose gets a chillin'?
We'll frolic and play
The Eskimo way
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
The song ended. Yami ended with Isis in a dip and Seto wouldn't let go of Seren's waist. All the couples were either flushed or beaming. They were having a wonderful time.
Malik glanced at Kurry, again almost struck speechless by her. He wondered if she'd want to dance, but as the next slow song started up she answered his question for him.
'Ooo! This is a good song! D'you want to go dance?'
Suddenly Malik was nervous. 'Er, I'm not very good.'
She tugged him out onto the dance floor. 'Don't worry about it. I took a course. Just keep your eyes on mine and follow my lead.'
She placed his hand on her waist, hers on his shoulder and clasped the other two together. 'Ready?'
"From our first day,
When I saw your smiling face,
Honey I knew that we would be
Together forever.
When I asked you out,
You said no, but I found out,
Darling that you'd been hurt,
You felt that you'd never love again."
Malik gazed into her sapphire eyes again and suddenly found that he couldn't look away. Becoming lost in the rhythm, he was swept right along with her as she danced.
"I deserve a try honey, just once,
Give me a chance and I'll prove that you're wrong,
You walked in, you were discouraged,
But honey he's nothin' like me."
Bakura gave Malik a thumbs-up as they passed, but Malik didn't see it. He was too absorbed in this moment. The rest of the room faded out and it was just him, the music and this angel in his arms.
"I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
I'll give you all I have baby just one more try.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
I'll give you all I have honey just one more try."
He was an incredible dancer, she'd give him that much. And the way he was looking at her...it was enough to give Kurry goosebumps. She tried to focus on the dance, but she too was becoming lost in his intense amethyst eyes.
"As time goes by, girl,
You will get to know me,
A little more better,
Girl that's the way love goes.
Baby, baby,
And I know you're afraid,
To let your feelings show,
And I understand,
But girl it's time to let go."
Who had chosen this song? It described her perfectly, but of course nobody here knew that.
"I deserve a try honey, just once,
Give me a chance and I'll prove that you're wrong,
You walked in, you were discouraged,
But honey he's nothin' like me
Darlin' why can't you see?"
Kurry gave a magnificent twirl and Malik caught her perfectly. They swept around the dance floor, caught up in the moment, neither one wanting to let go.
"I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Darlin' I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Honey I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try.
No way
No how
I'll never make you cry.
I would rather die.
No way
No how
I'll never break your heart.
Never tear it apart.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Honey I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Honey I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try."
As the song ended, Malik neatly dipped Kurry and brought her back up to tumultuous applause from their friends. Kurry swayed a little on her feet, left breathless by his abrupt move.
'Whew!' she gasped. 'That was lovely. Thank you!' Malik half-smiled at her, pleased that she enjoyed it. They made their way off the dance floor and went to get something to eat.
Kitty was beaming, ecstatic for her friend. 'Did you see that? Did you see that?!?' she whispered excitedly to Ryou. 'This is great!'
Ryou grinned at the giddy cat demon. 'I'm glad you're having a good time.'
Kitty smiled shyly. 'Well of course I'm having a good time. You're here, aren't you?'
Ryou coughed suddenly. 'Er, yeah.'
Kitty blushed. 'Um, it's a little close in here. D'you want to go for a walk? There's a side door we can slip out of.'
'Okay.'
Kitty caught Ryou's hand and guided him behind the curtain. Nobody noticed them slip out, as they were all too busy watching a new pair of dancers sway their way across the floor.
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How bloody kawaii can you get? I must say I rather enjoyed that chapter. But the next one's even better. *grins evilly* It'll be up in a little while, maybe Christmas Eve or Day, depends on how long it takes to type. That and I actually have to FINISH it. (Sorries, just remembered that. -___- ;) Anywayz, hope y'all enjoyed and the next chapter is on its way!
Oh, and please review! ^____^
(P.S: I don't own any of the songs that are in here, and there are a LOT of them. They belong to their respective owners, whoever they are, 'cause some of these carols are really old. But still wonderful. ^____^)
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The next morning everyone slept late. Mai and Serenity were the first to arrive, grinning at a dishevelled Kurry, who was still in her bathrobe. Soon, however, the mansion was bustling with activity. As promised, Seren and Kitty hustled Seto down to Ryou's and left him there. Then the dressing began.
They started by showering and Mai did manicures for everyone. Then they all worked on one girl until that girl was finished, then they'd start on the next girl. With styling hair and everything it took most of the afternoon, then they ran through the plan for introducing themselves in a formidable fashion. All the girls were anxious and nervous, but they steeled themselves and prepared.
Meanwhile, the guys were preparing as well. They'd all chosen either black or navy blue sports jackets and slacks with white shirts. A few of the guys had chosen to wear ties, but it turned out the only one who could tie them was Bakura. Yami had a lot of trouble with his, as he insisted he could "do it himself." It ended up wrapped around his head like a bandana before he relented and let Bakura do it for him. Yugi was hysterical.
Malik stood by the window, gazing absently in the direction he knew Seto's house to be. He held the box in one hand, absently stroking the velvet with his thumb. Seto came up behind him. Smirking a little at the amethyst-eyed boy, he said, 'You know, Christmas IS the season of perpetual hope.'
Malik grinned. 'Yeah, I know.' He glanced down at the box. 'I just wish...'
'Wish what?' Seto cocked his head to one side.
'I wish I knew. One way or the other. I mean, what if she's just not ready? I don't want to rush her, you know?' He sighed.
Seto tried to find the right words. 'Maybe...maybe she's just...wary. Something could've happened before. You can't know unless you try.'
Malik nodded. I guess you're right. I'll find out tonight anyways.'
Ryou stuck his head in the room. 'Oy, guess what Bakura found in the mailbox? Our invitations. Now we know where Kat went yesterday. They say 6:00 and its 5:45 right now. C'mon, we're getting ready to go.'
Malik replaced the box in his pocket. Taking a deep breath, he glanced upwards as if asking for Ra's help, then followed Seto out to the hall.
Promptly at 6:00 they arrived at the mansion. Showing their invitations to the footman at the door, they were let in and another footman took their coats. Then a third footman came and led them towards the ballroom.
'Feels weird to be escorted in my own house,' Seto muttered. Yugi chuckled nervously.
Yami and Joey let out low whistles as they entered the ballroom. The girls sure had done a magnificent job. Seto's eyebrows rose so high they disappeared into his hairline as he gently touched the frosted walls. 'Wow, wonder how they did that?' Yugi and Yami caught hold of Joey as he leapt for the food table. 'Behave!' Yami hissed.
'Sorry.'
The guys moved quietly, almost reverently into the room, admiring the decorations. None of them noticed two sets of eyes peeking out from behind the green curtain.
'Gods, don't they all look just wonderful?' Kitty whispered to Seren.
'Yeah. Oh look, my brother is actually behaving.'
'Why wouldn't he?'
'I mean he's not trying to stuff the entire food table down his gullet.'
Isis and Kat were doing a last minute touch-up on Tea, who was to go out first. Isis clasped her hands. 'Oh, you look simply darling. Be brave now, keep your head up and Yugi is going to flip!'
'Oh stoppit.' Tea was blushing already.
'Oy! We're ready.'
Tea stepped in front of the closed curtains. Isis and Kat dashed to the ropes that would pull the curtains aside. Kitty used the long-range remote to hit play and Kat and Isis slowly raised the curtains.
"Chestnuts roasting on an open fire,
Jack Frost nipping at your nose.
Yuletide carols, being sung by a choir,
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
Everybody knows
A turkey and some mistletoe,
Help to make the season bright.
Tiny tots, with their eyes all aglow,
Will find it hard to sleep, tonight.
They know that Santa's on his way,
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh.
And every mother's child is gonna smile,
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
And so, I'm offering this simple phrase,
To kids from one to ninety-two.
Although it's been said, many times, many ways,
Merry Christmas to you.
Although it's been said, many times, many ways,
Merry Christmas to you."
Yugi's eyes bugged out as Tea stepped forward. She was looking lovely in a soft yellow dress, low heels and her usual bangles. She even had a sprig of holly tucked behind one ear. Yugi offered his hand as she came towards him and Tea took it, a light blush gracing her cheeks.
'Wow Tea, you look great!' Yugi complimented her. The blush deepened.
'Thanks, so do you.'
Kitty grinned behind the curtain. 'She's a hit. I've never seen Yugi's eyes get so big.' She turned back to the others. 'Okay, who's next?'
Seto had gotten a drink and was sipping it while listening to Bakura. Suddenly, Bakura's eyebrows went up and he abruptly took Seto's cup away. 'Hey, I was drinking that!' Seto protested.
'Yeah, but I didn't want you to drop it.'
'Huh?'
Bakura motioned behind Seto. Seto turned and gulped as the curtains rose again.
"Silent Night,
Holy Night,
All is calm, all is bright.
Round yon virgin Mother and Child,
Holy infant so tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Sleep in heavenly peace."
Seto was speechless as he watched Serenity come nearer. She giggled a little at the look on his face as he took in her pale pink gown and long hair done up in a bun but flowing down to her waist underneath. Still speechless, Seto could only gape as Seren took his arm. 'It's alright. The look on your face is enough.' Seto suddenly grinned. Glancing back at Bakura, he mouthed, 'Thanks' as Seren led him away. Bakura raised Seto's cup in a kind of 'cheers'...and then drank out of it by mistake. Making a face, he set the cup down and went to find Malik.
Behind the curtain, Kitty and Kat were trying desperately not to make any noise as they laughed their heads off at Bakura. Kurry came out of the dressing room just then. 'What's so funny?'
'Bakura,' Kat gasped, tears of laughter streaming down her face.
Kurry cocked an eyebrow. 'Oookayyy, I DON'T want to know.'
'Who's going next?'
"City sidewalks, pretty sidewalks,
Dressed in holiday style,
In the air there's a feeling of Christmas.
Children laughing, people passing,
Meeting smile after smile,
And on every street corner you hear,
Silver Bells,
Silver Bells,
It's Christmas time in the city.
Ring-a-ling,
Hear them ring,
Soon it will be Christmas Day."
Bakura paused in the middle of the floor. He knew that tune. It was Kat's favourite Christmas carol, which could only mean one thing. He turned towards the curtains, grinning as his koi came out, dressed in dazzling green. She sauntered right up to him and he kissed her in greeting. 'You look spectacular,' Bakura said huskily. Kat got those shivers again. Bakura gently took her hand and led her over to where Malik was nervously standing on one foot, then the other, unknowing of when Kurry would make an appearance.
Behind the curtain, Kitty and Isis were trying to convince Kurry to do just that.
'But I'm not sure I can go out there,' Kurry protested.
Isis took her by the shoulders and looked her right in the eye. 'Listen to me. Tonight you are going to go out there and have the time of your life. This was your idea. Now uphold it. Only, when you get to him, give my brother a moment to catch his breath. I know him very well and you must not take his silence as doubt. Understood?'
Kurry nodded. 'Alright, but I dunno what good it'll do.'
Kitty pumped her fist in the air. 'Get out there and knock 'em dead, girl!' And she hit play.
"O Holy Night,
The stars are brightly shining.
It is the Night of our Dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world, in sin and deprivation.
Then he appeared,
And the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices.
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees.
Oh hear, the angel voices.
Oh Night Divine
Oh Night, when Christ was born.
Oh Night Divine
Oh Night, Oh Night Divine"
Malik was talking to Bakura and Kat when Kat gasped and said softly, 'Malik. Turn around.'
He did so, inhaling sharply at the sight of her. Her hair was pulled back a bit, the bangs into a small ponytail at the back, the rest falling about her face in golden waves. Her sky-blue gown was off both shoulders and left her arms bare, while the skirt flowed down about her ankles. She took his breath away. He felt his jaw drop involuntarily as she made her way amongst their friends to him. Amethyst eyes met sapphire and she smiled.
'Hey.'
He gulped, trying to find his voice. It came to him all of a sudden, nearly choked him, but he managed to gasp out, 'You look absolutely stunning.' Kurry flushed and looked away. She thought Malik looked particularly amazing himself, but was much to shy to say so.
'D'you want a drink?'
'Sure.'
And with that the constriction in his throat loosened and he could speak again. Thank Ra for that.
Joey was at the food table when they went for their drinks. 'Oy, Joey, shouldn't you wait for Mai?' Kurry asked her guarded.
Joey looked guilty. 'Er, yeah, but I was so excited earlier I forgot to eat. You look very nice by the way.' Kurry raised an eyebrow at that and Malik chuckled.
Just then, Kurry recognised the beginning beat of Mai's carol. 'Uh oh Joey, guess who's next?'
Joey gulped as he recognised the beat as well.
"Santa baby, slip a sable under the tree, for me
I've been an awful good girl
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Santa baby, an out-of-space convertible too, light blue
I'll wait up for you dear
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Think of all the fun I've missed
Think of all the fellas that I haven't kissed
Next year I could be oh so good
If you'd check off my Christmas list
Boo doo bee doo
Santa honey, I wanna yacht and really that's not a lot
I've been an angel all year
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Santa cutie, there's one thing I really do need, the deed to a platinum mine
Santa cutie, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Santa baby, I'm filling my stocking with a duplex, and checks, sign your 'X' on the line
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany's
I really do believe in you
Let's see if you believe in me
Boo doo bee doo
Santa baby, forgot to mention one little thing, a ring
I don't mean a phone
Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight
Hurry down the chimney tonight
Hurry down the chimney tonight"
Mai sauntered leisurely over to Joey, whose eyes had bugged out. 'Hallo Joseph.'
'Er, hi!' Gah! His voice had gone all squeaky! 'Er, I mean, hi,' he repeated, trying for a deeper note. Mai giggled and took him by the arm. 'Never mind hon, let's go eat.' Joey beamed. (Sorries, couldn't resist. XD)
Yami was quietly chortling to himself nearby. 'Didn't know Joey could hit that high of a note,' he grinned as he turned towards the curtain...and promptly choked.
"Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Let your heart be light,
From now on our troubles will be out of sight.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Make your Yuletide gay,
From now on our troubles will be miles away.
Here we are as in olden days,
Happy golden days are yours,
Faithful friends who are dear to us,
Gather near to us, once more.
Through the years we all will be together,
If the fates allow,
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough,
And have yourself a merry little Christmas now.
And have yourself a merry little Christmas now."
Isis walked sedately over to him, looking regal in a soft red dress whose straps ran around the back of her neck and her hair had two braids woven with gold framing her face. Yami's jaw dropped. Two words. Egyptian Goddess.
'Wow,' he breathed. Isis blushed. 'You're looking pretty fine yourself, my Pharaoh.' He went scarlet at that, but gathered himself enough to say, 'Thank you. Shall we?' and motioned at the drink table. Isis nodded.
Ryou was absently leaning with his back against the wall near the green curtains. Wondering how Kitty was going to raise the curtains for herself, he was surprised when he heard his favourite carol start up and wondered if it was a coincidence.
"Come they told me,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
A new-born king to see,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
Our finest gifts we bring,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
To lay before the King,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum.
So to honour him,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
When we come.
Baby Jesus,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I am a poor boy too,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I have no gift to bring,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
That's fit to give our King,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum.
Shall I play for you?
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
On my drum.
Mary nodded,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
The ox and lamb kept time,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I played my drum for him,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
I played my best for him,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum,
Rum-pa-pum-pum.
Then He smiled at me,
Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
Me and my drum.
Kitty slipped unceremoniously out from behind the curtains. Scanning the room for Ryou, she suddenly caught sight of him and sidled over.
'Hiya Ryou.'
He tried to remain calm, but his heart was thumping loudly in his ears. 'Hiya. You look lovely,' he replied, taking her hand in his. Kitty smiled shyly, thinking he looked rather dashing in his "suit", with his white hair and soft British accent. He pulled her over a little closer. 'I like the décor. Who did it?'
'Me and Kurry.'
'This is great. Say, d'you have any good dancing songs in that stereo?'
Kitty nodded. 'Hang on, I left the remote back of the curtain.' She went to get it.
When she returned, Ryou took a deep breath, bowed and said, 'May I have this dance?' Kitty blushed a little but took the proffered hand and followed Ryou out onto the dance floor.
"Sleighbells ring, are you listenin'?
In the lane snow is glist'nin'
A beautiful sight
We're happy tonight
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
Soon other couples joined them on the floor. Kitty twirled happily, giving a small gasp as Ryou caught her neatly in his arms.
"Gone away is the bluebird
Here to stay is the new bird
He sings a love song
As we go along
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
Kurry and Malik had opted to stay out of this dance. Kurry watched her dear friends, smiling, then her eyes lit up and she giggled. 'Look at that!' She pointed at Seto and Serenity. They appeared to be dancing, but if you looked closely you saw that Seren was actually standing ON Seto's feet and he was doing all the steps. Seren was giggling madly and even Seto couldn't keep a straight face. It was very kawaii.
"In the meadow we can build a snowman
Then pretend that he is Parson Brown
He'll say, "Are you married?"
We'll say, "No, man!
But you can do the job when you're in town!"
Later on we'll conspire
As we dream by the fire
To face unafraid
The plans that we made
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
Yami and Isis swirled past, Yami grinning like a loon and Isis beaming. Isis winked at her brother when Kurry wasn't looking, causing him to blush. Yugi and Tea were trying their hand at ballroom dancing as well, although you could catch Tea wincing every once in a while when Yugi stepped on her foot.
"In the meadow we can build a snowman
And pretend that he's a circus clown
We'll have lots of fun with Mr. Snowman
Until the other kiddies knock him down!
When it snows, ain't it thrillin'
Though your nose gets a chillin'?
We'll frolic and play
The Eskimo way
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland!"
The song ended. Yami ended with Isis in a dip and Seto wouldn't let go of Seren's waist. All the couples were either flushed or beaming. They were having a wonderful time.
Malik glanced at Kurry, again almost struck speechless by her. He wondered if she'd want to dance, but as the next slow song started up she answered his question for him.
'Ooo! This is a good song! D'you want to go dance?'
Suddenly Malik was nervous. 'Er, I'm not very good.'
She tugged him out onto the dance floor. 'Don't worry about it. I took a course. Just keep your eyes on mine and follow my lead.'
She placed his hand on her waist, hers on his shoulder and clasped the other two together. 'Ready?'
"From our first day,
When I saw your smiling face,
Honey I knew that we would be
Together forever.
When I asked you out,
You said no, but I found out,
Darling that you'd been hurt,
You felt that you'd never love again."
Malik gazed into her sapphire eyes again and suddenly found that he couldn't look away. Becoming lost in the rhythm, he was swept right along with her as she danced.
"I deserve a try honey, just once,
Give me a chance and I'll prove that you're wrong,
You walked in, you were discouraged,
But honey he's nothin' like me."
Bakura gave Malik a thumbs-up as they passed, but Malik didn't see it. He was too absorbed in this moment. The rest of the room faded out and it was just him, the music and this angel in his arms.
"I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
I'll give you all I have baby just one more try.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
I'll give you all I have honey just one more try."
He was an incredible dancer, she'd give him that much. And the way he was looking at her...it was enough to give Kurry goosebumps. She tried to focus on the dance, but she too was becoming lost in his intense amethyst eyes.
"As time goes by, girl,
You will get to know me,
A little more better,
Girl that's the way love goes.
Baby, baby,
And I know you're afraid,
To let your feelings show,
And I understand,
But girl it's time to let go."
Who had chosen this song? It described her perfectly, but of course nobody here knew that.
"I deserve a try honey, just once,
Give me a chance and I'll prove that you're wrong,
You walked in, you were discouraged,
But honey he's nothin' like me
Darlin' why can't you see?"
Kurry gave a magnificent twirl and Malik caught her perfectly. They swept around the dance floor, caught up in the moment, neither one wanting to let go.
"I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Darlin' I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Honey I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try.
No way
No how
I'll never make you cry.
I would rather die.
No way
No how
I'll never break your heart.
Never tear it apart.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Honey I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try.
I'll never break your heart,
I'll never make you cry,
I'd rather die than live without you,
Honey I'll give all I have
Baby just one more try."
As the song ended, Malik neatly dipped Kurry and brought her back up to tumultuous applause from their friends. Kurry swayed a little on her feet, left breathless by his abrupt move.
'Whew!' she gasped. 'That was lovely. Thank you!' Malik half-smiled at her, pleased that she enjoyed it. They made their way off the dance floor and went to get something to eat.
Kitty was beaming, ecstatic for her friend. 'Did you see that? Did you see that?!?' she whispered excitedly to Ryou. 'This is great!'
Ryou grinned at the giddy cat demon. 'I'm glad you're having a good time.'
Kitty smiled shyly. 'Well of course I'm having a good time. You're here, aren't you?'
Ryou coughed suddenly. 'Er, yeah.'
Kitty blushed. 'Um, it's a little close in here. D'you want to go for a walk? There's a side door we can slip out of.'
'Okay.'
Kitty caught Ryou's hand and guided him behind the curtain. Nobody noticed them slip out, as they were all too busy watching a new pair of dancers sway their way across the floor.
##########################################################################
How bloody kawaii can you get? I must say I rather enjoyed that chapter. But the next one's even better. *grins evilly* It'll be up in a little while, maybe Christmas Eve or Day, depends on how long it takes to type. That and I actually have to FINISH it. (Sorries, just remembered that. -___- ;) Anywayz, hope y'all enjoyed and the next chapter is on its way!
Oh, and please review! ^____^