I drummed my fingers on the counter as I watched Yugi,
Joji and Honda watch Fay who was sitting leaning
against the wall next to the store entrance. Anzu,
Serenity and Mai were having a conversation and I was
getting really impatient. Fay was on her cell talking
to some unknown person. "No. Oh come on! You chicken
or somethin'!? Come on! You HAVE to come! If I was to
tell you that a certain female was to be there . . . .
. yeah. She's gonna be there. Trust me. So if you
don't come you'll miss her, TTFN - ta ta for now!" She
turned off her cell with a smirk. "Well it's all taken
care off, come one let's all go now." she said getting
up.
"Wait! Which club are we going to? Who was that on the phone?" I asked. I was wearing a navy blue spaghetti strap dress that reached half way down to my knees. With matching navy high heels and a feather boa.
"We're going to Club Something." Anzu said getting up as well as the others. Anzu wore a strapless dark green dress the draped down to her knees, pine green gloves and matching green boots.
Fay gave me a grin and said, "The person I was on the cell with was Eagle." She said opening the door. Fay wore a black bandanna, with black metal tipped boots, a black skirt that fell to her knees which had slits on both sides, a black tank that dropped half way down to her belly button and a black jewel studded collar.
"Eagle? Who's Eagle?" Honda wondered out loud.
"Seto Kaiba." I answered remembering the name Fay called Seto at the park.
"SETO KAIBA?!?! Why'd you invite that stuck-up snobby jerk?!" Joji asked incredulously. He wore baggy blue jeans, a black shirt under a navy blue jacket.
"Because I signed up that stuck-up snobby jerk for the karaoke contest. I intend to beat him and his angelic voice too." She said. But when she glanced at Yugi I knew for sure that she intended to create some mischief. I glared at her pointedly as we tromped outside.
****
"Good evening Zana." Seto said as we met in the back ally behind the club. He took my hand and kissed the back of it, out of the corner of my eye I thought I saw Yugi grinding his teeth. "Ah Star. Still alive I see." he bent down and kissed Fay on both cheeks before giving her a warm hug.
"Eeew! Eagle germs! I'm going to die!!" Fay said gagging in mock horror. The other's looked at them with widened eyes, they must not have been accustomed to Kaiba showing affection. "Come on let's go." She said she knocked on the door at the back in a secret pattern.
"Why don't we just go in through the front?" Honda asked.
"Because most of you are under age. I know the owner personally. So the younger of you guys are okay to get in with his permission." She said.
The door opened and a pot-bellied old man greeted them all heartily. "Ah Faith! These must be your friends. Come, come in." He said gesturing for us to come in but he took one look at Yugi and stated that he wasn't gonna let an eight-year-old into his club, 16 and 17 year olds okay but NO eight year olds. Most of us had to look away to hide our laughs from the shamefaced Yugi.
"No, no Kalit! He's 17 it's just that he doesn't eat his veggies as much. Trust me K, would I actually permit and eight-year-old to go into a bar fully knowing that that eight-year-old might be abducted or even killed during a brawl? Or worse yet get drunk? Do you honestly think I'm THAT irresponsible?!" Fay crossed her arms.
Kalit sighed, "All right fine. I trust you enough, sweet. Come in then little guy, I know you're probably eager to watch Fay and Eagle perform at the karaoke contest."
As they walked in Kaiba glared at Fay "Karaoke?! Star . . . . . you little two faced bi - "
"Now, now Eagle. There is no need to use any profanity in front of company." Defafaeth said cheerfully, "If you want to though you may rally up all the vulgar words in you mind now and spit them out at me later. Here." She said handing out some bracelets. "VIP passes. You won't get thrown out if you get drunk and start acting like some moron, you can all have free drinks courtesy of the owner and you can go to the staff only areas. The main room's that way." She said pointing to a corridor that led to a door where wild shouts could be heard. "Come Eagle dearest. We must prepare for the contest. Have fun!" She called out as she pushed Kaiba off to another direction.
Me and the rest of us entered the club area that was filled to the brim with people. Honda, Mai and Joji immediately headed for the bar while Anzu and Serenity walked off to the dance floor. Yugi and I found a table in a corner near the stage where the karaoke contest was to start soon.
I wrapped my arm around Yugi's neck and kissed his forehead. "Enjoy yourself so far?" I asked nuzzling his ear.
Yugi sighed contentedly, "I always enjoy myself near you." he murmured back and kissed me deeply.
~~ATTENTION LAIDIES AND GERMS!! THE KARAOKE CONTEST IS GOING TO START IN 10 SECONDS AT THE STAGE FRONT. ALL CONTESTANTS PLEASE REPORT BACKSTAGE NOW!!~~
I smiled pulled him closer Yugi sighed contentedly stroking the inside of my thighs. "Yugi. I love you." I murmured into his ear giving his earlobe a quick lick.
"So who do you think is gonna win?" Anzu asked as she plopped herself down next Serenity who sat next to me.
"My bets on Fay." I said resting my cheek on Yugi's head. "She ALWAYS wins. Against Joji anyway." I recounted the many games Joji and Fay played against each other with a smile. Mai, Joji and Honda came back each with a drink in their hand arguing loudly about which drink was the best. The noise was deafening but everyone shut up as the lighting went out and soft lights were directed to the stage.
"Perfect make out setting. Don't you think." Yugi murmured into my ear. He kissed my neck deliberately slowly sending shivers down my spine.
~~AND NOW OUR FIRST CONTESTANT MARA WILCO!~~
The first few acts were horrible. They made my eardrums burst and the dancing was horrific. Along with the singing you had to perform some dance along with it. I was grateful when Kaiba came up, he could not have be as bad as the rest - and I was right. He went under the name Eagle and wore a black bandanna (Fay's) around his face, which covered his mouth and a black toque. He must've worn it to conceal is identity. He sang Swing Swing by All American Rejects and did a perfect dance routine. Everyone applauded generously and even Joji mumbled how good he was.
Next came a few more horrible routines a few more good ones, polite applause, some boos and then a tan skinned guy came up, he had platinum blond hair, golden eyes and was handsome. He was introduced as Keeper.
"Malik!" Mai gasped. I turned to look at her. Then I remembered Yugi telling me about him and how he was possessed.
I looked back at him with opened mouth amazement as he sang Teenage Dritbag by Wheatus, his voice was impeccable and there was no fault in his performance. When he finished the audience applauded even louder for him than for Kaiba. "He was better than good. He's gonna win" I whispered to Yugi. I got out of my chair and sat on his lap. "You're so comfy."
"Oh yeah? There's a reason why Fay always puts herself last during contests like these. You'll see." Then Yugi smiled kissing my breast his lips lingering, "Thanks. You're comfy too." he whispered back huskily.
A few more performances later . . . . .
~~ OUR LAST CONTEST IS STAR!!!!!~~
Fay came out to the stage and I wondered out loud why she used a fake name. Yugi responded saying that she was trying to cover her identity. A former spy thing. 'Star' went up and did a breath taking vocalization of Miss Independent by Kelly Clarkson. Her dance was without any imperfection, in fact she was SO good that the audience started dancing as well (including all of us at our table).
~~OUR JUDGES ARE NOW ASSESSING THE PERFORMANCES AND WILL, IN A FEW MINUTES, STATE THE WINNERS FROM 3RD - 1ST PLACE. PLEASE STAY SEATED UNTIL THAT TIME.~~
"I already know the order." Honda said confidently, "3rd place Kaiba, 2nd place Malik and 1st Fay. No brainer."
"You know it's funny how all the winners are using fake names to conceal their identities." Serenity commented. The talk rose up to deafening again which was once again silenced by a booming voice. All the contestants lined up in order across the stage 16 in all.
~~AND NOW THE WINNERS WILL BE PRESENTED!!! IN THIRD PLACE EAGLE!!!!~~ Everyone applauded loudly. Kaiba was given a 3rd place trophy and an expensive cell phone.
~~IN SECOND PLACE . . . . . . . KEEPER!!!!~~ The applause deafening, and many of the women screamed out "I love you"s and catcalls. Milak was granted a 2nd place trophy and a black laptop with a gold engraving that had K-E-E-P-E-R on it.
~~AND LAST BUT VERY LEAST THE FIRST PLACE WINNER IS . . . . . . .STAR!!!!~~ The applause was so loud one would swear you could hear all the way from Pluto. She received a 1st place trophy and a brand new looking black Ferrari F355 Spider convertible. She all but drooled when she saw that car.
*****
"No really! I swear! It's true!" Fay exclaimed as she took a sip of her coke. She wrinkled her nose then passed it over to me, "Here. I have to drive." She said handing it to me. I took a swig of it and immediately detected the taste of alcohol.
"Hello to all of you."
I looked up and saw Malik standing next to Fay who was staring at him. "Hello Malik." Yugi greeted warmly the others gave similar greetings. "You did great by the way! A beautiful rendition."
Malik smiled, "Apparently not as beautiful as this charming creature's performance." He said looking at Fay in the eye. "Tell me how long did you spend on that routine?"
Fay shrugged, "Made it up as I sang. Eagle too. And I presume you did also?" she leaned back into her chair. Her eyes were shifting colours undecidedly.
"Yes I did. Your eyes are beautiful." He said captivated by the shifting colours. "Well, no use beating around the bush. Wanna dance?"
Fay grinned and got up dragging Malik to the dance floor.
"Kaiba. How come you and Fay are on such good terms? And why do you call her Star and she call you Eagle?" I asked curiously.
Seto smiled grimly, "It started when we met in Peru a year ago. I was capture by some guerrillas and held hostage, she happened to be one of the hostages as well, but she was really an undercover agent sent to infiltrate the base. She saved my life when the leader nearly chopped my head off, we became friends then she just disappeared, I searched for her for a long time but without success. The only time she ever contacted me was to send me forewarnings about attempts on my life. I didn't meet her again, in person, until I saw her at the park with you. As for calling her Star . . . . . . . she never told me her real name I didn't tell her mine either, but I think she already knew who I was. So we called each other by nicknames. She never told me why she called me Eagle." Seto said thoughtfully, "And I call her Star because - "
"I'm as beautiful as a star?" Fay finished. The dance had ended and she and Malik had returned. The blonde sat down pulling Fay onto his lap. "Come on admit it! That's why you called me Star, you told me so!" Fay grinned putting an arm around her new boyfriend.
Kaiba rolled his eyes then responded airily, "Yes I did say that I called you Star 'cause of that reason, but I was probably delusional at that time. Jungle fever methinks." He ducked as Fay threw numerous numbers off wadded up spitballs.
"So Malik, what are you doing here?" Yugi asked. He drank martini. "Not to sound mean or anything it's just I thought you went back home and all . . . . . . ."
"I was bored. And I came here because . . . . . well Ishizu said something big was gonna happen here, and she was right too. I met finally the one person I want to spend all my life and after life with." He said giving Fay a silly grin.
Fay looked at him, "Just to let you know you aren't the first person who's said that. By the way if you start acting all protective on me and not allow me to go out without you or try to lock me up in a cellar or force me to marry you. Then I'll have no choice but to give you a complete and thorough ass kicking my style. Got it Malik?!" She stated arms crossed glaring at him.
Malik smiled and pulled her closer, "I like you too much to lose you by acting like some greedy ogre. True you're a treasure to keep, but I don't want to lose by keeping you, if it makes any sense . . . . . Okay lovely?" he said kissing her cheek.
Fay grinned, "I knew you wouldn't act like a troll. Not yet anyway. Though that last bit was confusing, but I get what you mean, beau." She buried her face in his hair.
I looked at Yugi and put on my best mock pouting face, "How come YOU don't call me by some cute nickname?"
"Uh . . . . . well. Um . . . . . How come YOU don't call me by some cute nickname?" he shot back.
I laughed, "I was just kidding Yug."
"I think we should leave now." Fay said. I looked at her and was surprised to see her looking nervous. "And I mean now. Something bad is gonna happen. I can feel it." she said biting her lip.
"What do you mean something bad?" Malik inquired.
"I mean something. I always get this weird feeling, almost like a premonition when something big is gonna happen - usually that something is bad and . . . oh good lord, something's gonna happen that's really bad! I can just . . . . . just feel it in my bones. I can just sense it, it's all around. We've got to get out now!" she said breathing heavily, I put my hand on hers and gasped at the cold she was emitting. "Now please. Round up the gang and let's go!" she stood up and looked around clearly agitated.
Kaiba nodded, "All right Star. Your premonitions saved my life more than once. Star you stay here and we'll be back in a sec. Malik and Yugi will go look for the boys, Zana and I shall find the girls." He said and before Yugi or I could protest dragged me off with him.
As soon as we were out of sight Kaiba dragged me into a secluded alcove and kissed me deeply. *What the hell is Kaiba doing?! Why is he doing this? Doesn't he understand that I love Yugi?* I said to myself. I decided that enough was enough. I began struggling against him to get him to release me. He finally did and I gave him vicious glare. "Zana. I've wanted to do that all evening." He whispered into my ear.
"I hope you got that out of your system because its the last time you will ever do that to me again." I told him angrily and shoved him out of the way and went to find the girls.
Out of the corner of my eye I could've sworn Fay was looking at me with eyes wide, open mouthed, and had the expression of a disconcerted person on her face. I gave her the mother of all glares, letting her know that this had to be her doing.
Fifteen minutes later we were all outside, most of the gang were grumbling about not being able to stay longer and glared at Fay who was still white and panting hard. Yugi, Malik (Fay insisted on driving him since he took the bus), Mai, and I rode in Fay's new convertible, while Joji, Serenity, Honda and Anzu rode in Fay's other car with Kaiba at the wheel. (Fay, before hand had asked him to drive her car seeing as he had taken a cab to the club.)
Yugi, Mai, and I held on tight to anything we got our hands on as Fay drove us through the nearly empty streets at breakneck speeds. Malik, surprisingly, laughed ecstatically and actually begged for her to go faster. Soon the three of us in the back were screaming and praying, in our hearts, that we wouldn't die or be horribly maimed or disfigured or turned into a vegetable. Fay and Malik were having the time of their lives when the car reached two hundred fifty - MPH.
I asked if she could slow down just a smitch. Fay snapped back with a rude comment and glared savagely at me thorough the rear view mirror and I returned one of my own, confirming my early suspicions right-then-and- there. She dropped off Mai (she staggered dizzily towards the door of her home), then Fay dumped me and Yugi off at the shop before driving off to Malik's place.
"I hope Fay will be all right, I haven't seen her this agitated since that time Ouji-san nearly went on the number three night train." He said worriedly. I sighed with relief inwardly, seeing his concern for Fay might mean that he was actually beginning to trust her again.
"Number three night train?" I opened the door and followed Yugi in, then locked the door.
Yugi kicked off his shoes when we got upstairs, "Yeah. Ouji-san was going on this business trip to the next city and he was taking the night train there. Fay didn't want him to go saying that she had a really bad feeling something bad would happen. But grandpa didn't listen so Fay actually took some ropes and tied him to a chair in the living room, I tried to help grandpa but she tied me up too. Then she turned on the TV fifteen minutes after the train had left and there was a report about a train that fell off a cliff into the ocean, there were no survivors." He said solemnly. "The train was the number three night train headed for the next city." He added softly.
I gasped my mouth fell open and I looked at him not knowing what to say. Then Ouji-san appeared out of nowhere and gave us a lengthy lecture about staying up late not even telling him about where we were. He sentenced us both to numerous chores around the house for four days. We didn't tell him that Fay insisted we go. We all made a pact, if you get caught you were on your own.
I went to Fay's room after Yugi fell asleep. She and I had to have a little talk about that little stunt she pulled tonight and the club with Kaiba.
"Fay. You're making it real hard to be your friend." I said softly to myself. I went into her room to find it still deserted. So I sat on her bed and I waited and after a while fell asleep.
"What the hell are you doing my room?" A calm yet menacing voice whispered in my ear.
I jolted out of my sleep. I looked around the room confused for a second before I got my bearings straight. I glanced at the clock on her wall and was surprised she'd been gone for five hours. I shook myself and glared at her sleepily. "What the hell did you think you were doing with pulling that prank at the club with Seto?" I said to her, keeping my anger out of my voice.
"What the bloody hell are you talking about?" She asked looking at me while starting to undress.
"I'm talking about that kiss Seto gave me. I know you pushed him up to do it. Why, Fay? You, of all people know that my heart and my love is with Yugi and no one else. I thought you were my friend?"
"Now, just a bloody damned minute! I never pushed Eagle to kiss you! Is that what you think? Listen, girl. If you hadn't noticed Eagle's got it for you real bad. When he kissed you, he did it of his own accord not because I pushed him to do so. Granted, my actions these past couple of weeks haven't been sterling and noble at best, but as far as you and Yugi go, I would never jeopardize what you two share. And sorry about giving you that rude remark back in the car. When I saw Eagle kiss ya I thought that you wanted that to happen. " She said shrugging herself into her nightie.
I sighed with relief. She didn't do it.
"No I'm sorry, Fay. When Seto kissed me, I thought for sure you did it as a harmless joke. I was so hurt and angry, but I said to myself. Wait. Fay is my friend, I'm sure she didn't meant do set me up. So I decided to wait till you got home to get it out in the open. Now, that I know you had nothing to do with it. I'm glad and I apologize for my accusation. Please forgive me."
I heard her sigh tiredly. "Just forget it. It was just a mistake, but I suggest you talk to Eagle and get things straight between you and him before he really pushes his luck. Now get the hell out! I'm tired and I need some sleep."
"I will. Thanks Fay. Goodnight." I told her starting to leave her room. "Wait a sec." I spun around and suppressed a smirk when I asked, "So . . . . were you at Malik's for five hours? I mean that could explain why you're so tired and sleepy and that hickey on your neck . . . . . ." I grinned smugly.
She glared at me then pounced on top of me and started tickling me sides. "What's it to you? You . . . . . you . . . . . you Yugi lover!"
I screeched with laughter and tried vainly to get her off me. "Wait! I'm sorry! I give up! Please! If you don't let go of me I'll . . . . I'll . . . . I'll tell Yugi on you!!!" I cried breathlessly, my face red.
Fay snorted but let me go. "Fine. But only because I don't want Yugi-boy coming in here preparing to kill me for, once again, endangering your life." she said getting off and turning on the TV. "Shit. I was right." she muttered staring at the screen.
"What?" I choked out before turning my head. I gaped at the scene of a blown up club, that was none other than Club Something. "Oh my gawd. It blew up 15 min after we left . . . . You were right." I whispered more to myself than anyone. "No survivors. Do you think that THEY did it?" I asked horrified.
"Zana go to bed." She ordered.
"But you still haven't - "
"Zana. I do not ask people to do something I want done a second time." her voice was calm but underlying it was something I couldn't put my finger on. "Now GO TO BED."
I got up, "Good night Fay." I left the room without a response from her. It was only after I lay in bed staring at the ceiling that I found out what was underlying the calm cool surface she had put up. Fear.
"Wait! Which club are we going to? Who was that on the phone?" I asked. I was wearing a navy blue spaghetti strap dress that reached half way down to my knees. With matching navy high heels and a feather boa.
"We're going to Club Something." Anzu said getting up as well as the others. Anzu wore a strapless dark green dress the draped down to her knees, pine green gloves and matching green boots.
Fay gave me a grin and said, "The person I was on the cell with was Eagle." She said opening the door. Fay wore a black bandanna, with black metal tipped boots, a black skirt that fell to her knees which had slits on both sides, a black tank that dropped half way down to her belly button and a black jewel studded collar.
"Eagle? Who's Eagle?" Honda wondered out loud.
"Seto Kaiba." I answered remembering the name Fay called Seto at the park.
"SETO KAIBA?!?! Why'd you invite that stuck-up snobby jerk?!" Joji asked incredulously. He wore baggy blue jeans, a black shirt under a navy blue jacket.
"Because I signed up that stuck-up snobby jerk for the karaoke contest. I intend to beat him and his angelic voice too." She said. But when she glanced at Yugi I knew for sure that she intended to create some mischief. I glared at her pointedly as we tromped outside.
****
"Good evening Zana." Seto said as we met in the back ally behind the club. He took my hand and kissed the back of it, out of the corner of my eye I thought I saw Yugi grinding his teeth. "Ah Star. Still alive I see." he bent down and kissed Fay on both cheeks before giving her a warm hug.
"Eeew! Eagle germs! I'm going to die!!" Fay said gagging in mock horror. The other's looked at them with widened eyes, they must not have been accustomed to Kaiba showing affection. "Come on let's go." She said she knocked on the door at the back in a secret pattern.
"Why don't we just go in through the front?" Honda asked.
"Because most of you are under age. I know the owner personally. So the younger of you guys are okay to get in with his permission." She said.
The door opened and a pot-bellied old man greeted them all heartily. "Ah Faith! These must be your friends. Come, come in." He said gesturing for us to come in but he took one look at Yugi and stated that he wasn't gonna let an eight-year-old into his club, 16 and 17 year olds okay but NO eight year olds. Most of us had to look away to hide our laughs from the shamefaced Yugi.
"No, no Kalit! He's 17 it's just that he doesn't eat his veggies as much. Trust me K, would I actually permit and eight-year-old to go into a bar fully knowing that that eight-year-old might be abducted or even killed during a brawl? Or worse yet get drunk? Do you honestly think I'm THAT irresponsible?!" Fay crossed her arms.
Kalit sighed, "All right fine. I trust you enough, sweet. Come in then little guy, I know you're probably eager to watch Fay and Eagle perform at the karaoke contest."
As they walked in Kaiba glared at Fay "Karaoke?! Star . . . . . you little two faced bi - "
"Now, now Eagle. There is no need to use any profanity in front of company." Defafaeth said cheerfully, "If you want to though you may rally up all the vulgar words in you mind now and spit them out at me later. Here." She said handing out some bracelets. "VIP passes. You won't get thrown out if you get drunk and start acting like some moron, you can all have free drinks courtesy of the owner and you can go to the staff only areas. The main room's that way." She said pointing to a corridor that led to a door where wild shouts could be heard. "Come Eagle dearest. We must prepare for the contest. Have fun!" She called out as she pushed Kaiba off to another direction.
Me and the rest of us entered the club area that was filled to the brim with people. Honda, Mai and Joji immediately headed for the bar while Anzu and Serenity walked off to the dance floor. Yugi and I found a table in a corner near the stage where the karaoke contest was to start soon.
I wrapped my arm around Yugi's neck and kissed his forehead. "Enjoy yourself so far?" I asked nuzzling his ear.
Yugi sighed contentedly, "I always enjoy myself near you." he murmured back and kissed me deeply.
~~ATTENTION LAIDIES AND GERMS!! THE KARAOKE CONTEST IS GOING TO START IN 10 SECONDS AT THE STAGE FRONT. ALL CONTESTANTS PLEASE REPORT BACKSTAGE NOW!!~~
I smiled pulled him closer Yugi sighed contentedly stroking the inside of my thighs. "Yugi. I love you." I murmured into his ear giving his earlobe a quick lick.
"So who do you think is gonna win?" Anzu asked as she plopped herself down next Serenity who sat next to me.
"My bets on Fay." I said resting my cheek on Yugi's head. "She ALWAYS wins. Against Joji anyway." I recounted the many games Joji and Fay played against each other with a smile. Mai, Joji and Honda came back each with a drink in their hand arguing loudly about which drink was the best. The noise was deafening but everyone shut up as the lighting went out and soft lights were directed to the stage.
"Perfect make out setting. Don't you think." Yugi murmured into my ear. He kissed my neck deliberately slowly sending shivers down my spine.
~~AND NOW OUR FIRST CONTESTANT MARA WILCO!~~
The first few acts were horrible. They made my eardrums burst and the dancing was horrific. Along with the singing you had to perform some dance along with it. I was grateful when Kaiba came up, he could not have be as bad as the rest - and I was right. He went under the name Eagle and wore a black bandanna (Fay's) around his face, which covered his mouth and a black toque. He must've worn it to conceal is identity. He sang Swing Swing by All American Rejects and did a perfect dance routine. Everyone applauded generously and even Joji mumbled how good he was.
Next came a few more horrible routines a few more good ones, polite applause, some boos and then a tan skinned guy came up, he had platinum blond hair, golden eyes and was handsome. He was introduced as Keeper.
"Malik!" Mai gasped. I turned to look at her. Then I remembered Yugi telling me about him and how he was possessed.
I looked back at him with opened mouth amazement as he sang Teenage Dritbag by Wheatus, his voice was impeccable and there was no fault in his performance. When he finished the audience applauded even louder for him than for Kaiba. "He was better than good. He's gonna win" I whispered to Yugi. I got out of my chair and sat on his lap. "You're so comfy."
"Oh yeah? There's a reason why Fay always puts herself last during contests like these. You'll see." Then Yugi smiled kissing my breast his lips lingering, "Thanks. You're comfy too." he whispered back huskily.
A few more performances later . . . . .
~~ OUR LAST CONTEST IS STAR!!!!!~~
Fay came out to the stage and I wondered out loud why she used a fake name. Yugi responded saying that she was trying to cover her identity. A former spy thing. 'Star' went up and did a breath taking vocalization of Miss Independent by Kelly Clarkson. Her dance was without any imperfection, in fact she was SO good that the audience started dancing as well (including all of us at our table).
~~OUR JUDGES ARE NOW ASSESSING THE PERFORMANCES AND WILL, IN A FEW MINUTES, STATE THE WINNERS FROM 3RD - 1ST PLACE. PLEASE STAY SEATED UNTIL THAT TIME.~~
"I already know the order." Honda said confidently, "3rd place Kaiba, 2nd place Malik and 1st Fay. No brainer."
"You know it's funny how all the winners are using fake names to conceal their identities." Serenity commented. The talk rose up to deafening again which was once again silenced by a booming voice. All the contestants lined up in order across the stage 16 in all.
~~AND NOW THE WINNERS WILL BE PRESENTED!!! IN THIRD PLACE EAGLE!!!!~~ Everyone applauded loudly. Kaiba was given a 3rd place trophy and an expensive cell phone.
~~IN SECOND PLACE . . . . . . . KEEPER!!!!~~ The applause deafening, and many of the women screamed out "I love you"s and catcalls. Milak was granted a 2nd place trophy and a black laptop with a gold engraving that had K-E-E-P-E-R on it.
~~AND LAST BUT VERY LEAST THE FIRST PLACE WINNER IS . . . . . . .STAR!!!!~~ The applause was so loud one would swear you could hear all the way from Pluto. She received a 1st place trophy and a brand new looking black Ferrari F355 Spider convertible. She all but drooled when she saw that car.
*****
"No really! I swear! It's true!" Fay exclaimed as she took a sip of her coke. She wrinkled her nose then passed it over to me, "Here. I have to drive." She said handing it to me. I took a swig of it and immediately detected the taste of alcohol.
"Hello to all of you."
I looked up and saw Malik standing next to Fay who was staring at him. "Hello Malik." Yugi greeted warmly the others gave similar greetings. "You did great by the way! A beautiful rendition."
Malik smiled, "Apparently not as beautiful as this charming creature's performance." He said looking at Fay in the eye. "Tell me how long did you spend on that routine?"
Fay shrugged, "Made it up as I sang. Eagle too. And I presume you did also?" she leaned back into her chair. Her eyes were shifting colours undecidedly.
"Yes I did. Your eyes are beautiful." He said captivated by the shifting colours. "Well, no use beating around the bush. Wanna dance?"
Fay grinned and got up dragging Malik to the dance floor.
"Kaiba. How come you and Fay are on such good terms? And why do you call her Star and she call you Eagle?" I asked curiously.
Seto smiled grimly, "It started when we met in Peru a year ago. I was capture by some guerrillas and held hostage, she happened to be one of the hostages as well, but she was really an undercover agent sent to infiltrate the base. She saved my life when the leader nearly chopped my head off, we became friends then she just disappeared, I searched for her for a long time but without success. The only time she ever contacted me was to send me forewarnings about attempts on my life. I didn't meet her again, in person, until I saw her at the park with you. As for calling her Star . . . . . . . she never told me her real name I didn't tell her mine either, but I think she already knew who I was. So we called each other by nicknames. She never told me why she called me Eagle." Seto said thoughtfully, "And I call her Star because - "
"I'm as beautiful as a star?" Fay finished. The dance had ended and she and Malik had returned. The blonde sat down pulling Fay onto his lap. "Come on admit it! That's why you called me Star, you told me so!" Fay grinned putting an arm around her new boyfriend.
Kaiba rolled his eyes then responded airily, "Yes I did say that I called you Star 'cause of that reason, but I was probably delusional at that time. Jungle fever methinks." He ducked as Fay threw numerous numbers off wadded up spitballs.
"So Malik, what are you doing here?" Yugi asked. He drank martini. "Not to sound mean or anything it's just I thought you went back home and all . . . . . . ."
"I was bored. And I came here because . . . . . well Ishizu said something big was gonna happen here, and she was right too. I met finally the one person I want to spend all my life and after life with." He said giving Fay a silly grin.
Fay looked at him, "Just to let you know you aren't the first person who's said that. By the way if you start acting all protective on me and not allow me to go out without you or try to lock me up in a cellar or force me to marry you. Then I'll have no choice but to give you a complete and thorough ass kicking my style. Got it Malik?!" She stated arms crossed glaring at him.
Malik smiled and pulled her closer, "I like you too much to lose you by acting like some greedy ogre. True you're a treasure to keep, but I don't want to lose by keeping you, if it makes any sense . . . . . Okay lovely?" he said kissing her cheek.
Fay grinned, "I knew you wouldn't act like a troll. Not yet anyway. Though that last bit was confusing, but I get what you mean, beau." She buried her face in his hair.
I looked at Yugi and put on my best mock pouting face, "How come YOU don't call me by some cute nickname?"
"Uh . . . . . well. Um . . . . . How come YOU don't call me by some cute nickname?" he shot back.
I laughed, "I was just kidding Yug."
"I think we should leave now." Fay said. I looked at her and was surprised to see her looking nervous. "And I mean now. Something bad is gonna happen. I can feel it." she said biting her lip.
"What do you mean something bad?" Malik inquired.
"I mean something. I always get this weird feeling, almost like a premonition when something big is gonna happen - usually that something is bad and . . . oh good lord, something's gonna happen that's really bad! I can just . . . . . just feel it in my bones. I can just sense it, it's all around. We've got to get out now!" she said breathing heavily, I put my hand on hers and gasped at the cold she was emitting. "Now please. Round up the gang and let's go!" she stood up and looked around clearly agitated.
Kaiba nodded, "All right Star. Your premonitions saved my life more than once. Star you stay here and we'll be back in a sec. Malik and Yugi will go look for the boys, Zana and I shall find the girls." He said and before Yugi or I could protest dragged me off with him.
As soon as we were out of sight Kaiba dragged me into a secluded alcove and kissed me deeply. *What the hell is Kaiba doing?! Why is he doing this? Doesn't he understand that I love Yugi?* I said to myself. I decided that enough was enough. I began struggling against him to get him to release me. He finally did and I gave him vicious glare. "Zana. I've wanted to do that all evening." He whispered into my ear.
"I hope you got that out of your system because its the last time you will ever do that to me again." I told him angrily and shoved him out of the way and went to find the girls.
Out of the corner of my eye I could've sworn Fay was looking at me with eyes wide, open mouthed, and had the expression of a disconcerted person on her face. I gave her the mother of all glares, letting her know that this had to be her doing.
Fifteen minutes later we were all outside, most of the gang were grumbling about not being able to stay longer and glared at Fay who was still white and panting hard. Yugi, Malik (Fay insisted on driving him since he took the bus), Mai, and I rode in Fay's new convertible, while Joji, Serenity, Honda and Anzu rode in Fay's other car with Kaiba at the wheel. (Fay, before hand had asked him to drive her car seeing as he had taken a cab to the club.)
Yugi, Mai, and I held on tight to anything we got our hands on as Fay drove us through the nearly empty streets at breakneck speeds. Malik, surprisingly, laughed ecstatically and actually begged for her to go faster. Soon the three of us in the back were screaming and praying, in our hearts, that we wouldn't die or be horribly maimed or disfigured or turned into a vegetable. Fay and Malik were having the time of their lives when the car reached two hundred fifty - MPH.
I asked if she could slow down just a smitch. Fay snapped back with a rude comment and glared savagely at me thorough the rear view mirror and I returned one of my own, confirming my early suspicions right-then-and- there. She dropped off Mai (she staggered dizzily towards the door of her home), then Fay dumped me and Yugi off at the shop before driving off to Malik's place.
"I hope Fay will be all right, I haven't seen her this agitated since that time Ouji-san nearly went on the number three night train." He said worriedly. I sighed with relief inwardly, seeing his concern for Fay might mean that he was actually beginning to trust her again.
"Number three night train?" I opened the door and followed Yugi in, then locked the door.
Yugi kicked off his shoes when we got upstairs, "Yeah. Ouji-san was going on this business trip to the next city and he was taking the night train there. Fay didn't want him to go saying that she had a really bad feeling something bad would happen. But grandpa didn't listen so Fay actually took some ropes and tied him to a chair in the living room, I tried to help grandpa but she tied me up too. Then she turned on the TV fifteen minutes after the train had left and there was a report about a train that fell off a cliff into the ocean, there were no survivors." He said solemnly. "The train was the number three night train headed for the next city." He added softly.
I gasped my mouth fell open and I looked at him not knowing what to say. Then Ouji-san appeared out of nowhere and gave us a lengthy lecture about staying up late not even telling him about where we were. He sentenced us both to numerous chores around the house for four days. We didn't tell him that Fay insisted we go. We all made a pact, if you get caught you were on your own.
I went to Fay's room after Yugi fell asleep. She and I had to have a little talk about that little stunt she pulled tonight and the club with Kaiba.
"Fay. You're making it real hard to be your friend." I said softly to myself. I went into her room to find it still deserted. So I sat on her bed and I waited and after a while fell asleep.
"What the hell are you doing my room?" A calm yet menacing voice whispered in my ear.
I jolted out of my sleep. I looked around the room confused for a second before I got my bearings straight. I glanced at the clock on her wall and was surprised she'd been gone for five hours. I shook myself and glared at her sleepily. "What the hell did you think you were doing with pulling that prank at the club with Seto?" I said to her, keeping my anger out of my voice.
"What the bloody hell are you talking about?" She asked looking at me while starting to undress.
"I'm talking about that kiss Seto gave me. I know you pushed him up to do it. Why, Fay? You, of all people know that my heart and my love is with Yugi and no one else. I thought you were my friend?"
"Now, just a bloody damned minute! I never pushed Eagle to kiss you! Is that what you think? Listen, girl. If you hadn't noticed Eagle's got it for you real bad. When he kissed you, he did it of his own accord not because I pushed him to do so. Granted, my actions these past couple of weeks haven't been sterling and noble at best, but as far as you and Yugi go, I would never jeopardize what you two share. And sorry about giving you that rude remark back in the car. When I saw Eagle kiss ya I thought that you wanted that to happen. " She said shrugging herself into her nightie.
I sighed with relief. She didn't do it.
"No I'm sorry, Fay. When Seto kissed me, I thought for sure you did it as a harmless joke. I was so hurt and angry, but I said to myself. Wait. Fay is my friend, I'm sure she didn't meant do set me up. So I decided to wait till you got home to get it out in the open. Now, that I know you had nothing to do with it. I'm glad and I apologize for my accusation. Please forgive me."
I heard her sigh tiredly. "Just forget it. It was just a mistake, but I suggest you talk to Eagle and get things straight between you and him before he really pushes his luck. Now get the hell out! I'm tired and I need some sleep."
"I will. Thanks Fay. Goodnight." I told her starting to leave her room. "Wait a sec." I spun around and suppressed a smirk when I asked, "So . . . . were you at Malik's for five hours? I mean that could explain why you're so tired and sleepy and that hickey on your neck . . . . . ." I grinned smugly.
She glared at me then pounced on top of me and started tickling me sides. "What's it to you? You . . . . . you . . . . . you Yugi lover!"
I screeched with laughter and tried vainly to get her off me. "Wait! I'm sorry! I give up! Please! If you don't let go of me I'll . . . . I'll . . . . I'll tell Yugi on you!!!" I cried breathlessly, my face red.
Fay snorted but let me go. "Fine. But only because I don't want Yugi-boy coming in here preparing to kill me for, once again, endangering your life." she said getting off and turning on the TV. "Shit. I was right." she muttered staring at the screen.
"What?" I choked out before turning my head. I gaped at the scene of a blown up club, that was none other than Club Something. "Oh my gawd. It blew up 15 min after we left . . . . You were right." I whispered more to myself than anyone. "No survivors. Do you think that THEY did it?" I asked horrified.
"Zana go to bed." She ordered.
"But you still haven't - "
"Zana. I do not ask people to do something I want done a second time." her voice was calm but underlying it was something I couldn't put my finger on. "Now GO TO BED."
I got up, "Good night Fay." I left the room without a response from her. It was only after I lay in bed staring at the ceiling that I found out what was underlying the calm cool surface she had put up. Fear.
