This chapter is 11 pages long! I thought I should make it up to you guys
since Duke's chapter was so short. ^_^
Comments to reviews at the end of chapter.
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Tis The Season
Warnings: Christmas angst. AU. No character death. Can't I even make a character sick without everyone thinking I'm gonna off him in the next chapter? Then again, Baku's still sick. Maybe I will off him just to please so many of you. ^_^
Pairings: You'll just have to wait and see.
/ thoughts /
*italics*
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Chapter Seven
Bleary lavender eyes stared at the motionless figure lying in the large hospital bed. The off white colour of the pillowcases and sheets made Bakura look deathly pale. The machines the boy was hooked up to weren't helping the matter any. The boy was having his heart monitored, his vital signs constantly being read and to make things even more horrifying for the teen's little brother, Bakura couldn't breathe on his own so he'd been put on a respirator.
To make matters worse, Bakura had been unconscious since he'd collapsed at the orphanage. After speaking with the doctors, Linda had told himself and Ryou that it had been because Bakura hadn't been eating much and he hadn't had anything to eat the entire day he collapsed. Also, he was still suffering from his earlier illness and it was obvious he was stressed over things. Linda didn't need to elaborate on what sort of things; Malik could figure it out.
Bakura had been taking care of Ryou for most of his life. He provided for the child, took care of the child and he sacrificed a lot for the boy. Ryou had *become* Bakura's child, and like every single teenaged parent, Bakura had a lot of responsibility. That of course, had taken its toll, which was why they were at the hospital in the first place.
A soft whimper drew Malik's attention down to the boy cuddled in his lap. Ryou had been worried and scared for the past two days. The doctor, who had young children of her own, had finally decided to take pity on the boy and had given him a sedative. The boy had almost instantly fallen asleep on the couch across the room from the bed, however, plagued with nightmares Ryou seemed to only sleep peacefully if he were held. The only person around to do that was Malik.
It was easy enough really, Ryou was the same age as Amurra was, well, had been last year anyway. The difference between the two boys was that Ryou actually liked to be held. Six-year old Amurra wasn't used to the contact, seeing as how Marik was always too busy to be with him and his mother, whom Malik had never actually met, didn't like kids. Malik found himself enjoying the feeling as Ryou cuddled against him to stay warm.
He glanced down and found himself staring into large confused eyes. Smiling softly at the boy, Malik gave him a chance to remember everything that had happened. Once recognition came to him, Malik helped Ryou to sit up. The small boy yawned sleepily and rubbed the sleep out of one of his eyes as he leaned against Malik's chest. "Feel a little better?" The Egyptian wondered, keeping his voice low.
Ryou nodded, leaning into the warmth of the older boy's body. Having someone new hold him was strange, but Malik was very comfortable. He glanced up at Malik questioningly after a few moments, his worry getting the better of him. "Batuwa?" He whispered, as if the name could do some harm to the body lying in the bed. Malik had noticed that Ryou refused to look at his brother and the Egyptian understood completely.
"He's still sleeping." Malik answered, gently running his fingers through Ryou's hair. Malik had learned what this small action did to calm the child and he wasn't disappointed. Ryou purred as he leaned into the touch and they sat quietly together listening to the heart monitor and the respirator. Malik hadn't felt so helpless since he'd first been shipped off to Canada and separated from his family.
Malik sighed as he hugged Ryou closer, wondering why he was even there. He didn't want anymore attachments; they never seemed to last long. First had been Marik and Isis, basically his parents when he was growing up. Then his father had forced him - quite literally - onto a plane bound for Canada. He'd been taken out of school during the middle of the year and when he'd gotten to Canada and registered he had been told he'd have to wait until the year ended and he'd have to redo grade nine completely.
Then there had been Duke. The two had quickly become inseparable before Malik became 'Pharaoh' and they had slowly begun a relationship with a lot of shy kisses, plenty of cuddling and they were always holding hands. Malik had foolishly given Duke his heart on a hot summer night between the end of grade ten and before grade eleven. Malik had gone away for the winter in love and had come back only to have his heart broken.
During the winter months, Duke had found an attraction to Mai and it had seemed like Malik had been replaced. Duke would still give Malik physical comfort, but that wasn't what the Egyptian teen was looking for at all.
Now there was Bakura. Malik had only really known him for less than twenty- four hours but he was drawn to the other, and it wasn't only Bakura either. Ryou was a part of the package and Malik was positive that even the most cold hearted person would fall in love with the child. But Bakura would probably be taken away too and when Bakura was gone, where would Ryou go?
Shaking his head to wake himself from his depressing thoughts, Malik realized that they were no longer alone. Linda smiled as she sat in the chair across from Malik on the other side of the bed. "The doctor says he's still stable." She sighed; looking as tired as Malik felt. "But they're not sure when he'll wake up." She yawned from exhaustion caused by hours of worrying. She looked away from Malik and to Ryou. Once seeing that he was awake, she got up and knelt beside Malik's chair. "Hey sweetheart." She gently kissed his forehead, "Do you feel better after your nap?" She asked.
"I wan' Batuwa." Ryou mumbled unhappily as one of his small hands grabbed a handful of Malik's shirt.
Linda smiled sadly, "I know kiddo, but your brother is really sick right now and he needs rest. He wouldn't want you to worry, now you haven't eaten much and we don't need you making yourself sick too." At this she looked at Malik, "Will you be willing to take him somewhere to eat? The food here isn't all that great." She admitted, "And I'll pay you."
Malik shook his head, "We'll go somewhere but I won't take your money." He said, somewhat insulted.
Linda saw this, "I meant nothing by it and I apologize. I suppose I'm used to having to bribe some of the kids to do stuff. And thank you for looking after him." She stood and kissed Malik's head. "I have to go make a phone call so I'll see you two later." She promised and after making sure Bakura was tucked in, she left the room.
Malik carefully stood up with Ryou in his arms. Their jackets had been hung in the small closet by the door where the patient could keep some of their own things. Wordlessly Malik helped Ryou into his jacket before pulling on his own. Upon turning back to the child Malik stopped to watch him as the boy stared at his brother. Slowly, he moved beside Ryou and knelt down so he could see the child's face.
Brilliant brown eyes turned to him, "What if he wakes up when I'm not hewe?" He wondered softly, worry twined in his voice.
Malik smiled softly, "Then he'll be happy to know that you got out of here and got something to eat. When we get to a place we can eat, I'll call back to see if there's any changes, how's that?" He wondered, not wanting the boy to be so worried. He liked it better when Ryou smiled.
Ryou seemed to think on it as he looked at his brother's immobile body. Finally, the boy looked back at his keeper and nodded, holding out his hand for Malik to take. Malik took a gentle hold on Ryou's small hand and together they exited the hospital room.
The weather outside had gotten unnaturally warm for being so close to Christmas and the one jacket Malik was wearing was actually enough to keep him warm. Before leaving the hospital Malik had asked a nurse if there was a place to eat nearby and she had directed him to a McDonald's just a couple of blocks away, that was where they were headed.
The walk was slow as Malik kept to Ryou's pace, but he didn't mind at all. It was nice being out of the hospital, and two days straight without stepping out side - even if it was to a world of snow - had been torture. The last time Malik had been in a hospital, he'd almost lost his best friend to appendicitis, but even after finding out how close he'd come to dying, Duke paid it little mind.
A tug on his arm caused Malik to focus in front of him and he realized the tug had come from Ryou. Ryou had stopped moving and had his head down. Malik quickly knelt down beside him and gently lifted the boy's chin to find tears streaming down Ryou's flushed cheeks. "Ryou? What's wrong?" He wondered softly, "Linda said he was stable, he just needs rest." He tried.
Ryou only shook his head and sniffled, the tears falling faster this time. "Batuwa's my bwotha! He's my onwy fammy. I love him! I dun' wan' him to die!" The boy sobbed, bringing up his small hands and burying his face within them.
Malik sighed softly and rubbed the boy's back through his jacket. After a few more minutes, when it became clear that Ryou wasn't going to move Malik stood up and picked the slightly startled boy up. Ryou blinked cutely as he clutched to Malik's jacket before realizing what had happened. Whimpering to himself he wiped at his tears but settled down within Malik's grasp.
"You're still tired." Malik remarked as he continued walking. It may have been warm out, but it was still cold enough, and standing in one place was doing nothing for them.
"Yeah." Ryou sniffed in a tiny voice.
Malik looked down at him as he walked, "Are you hungry at all? Linda kinda forced us out of there." He began but stopped as Ryou nodded.
"A widdle." He confessed, only to blush as his tummy growled loudly, as if in protest of the boy's comment. Malik raised an eyebrow at the boy, "Otay," Ryou giggled for the first time in two days, "A wot."
Malik chuckled at the boy, growing attached with each moment more he spent with the child. "Well then, let's get something to eat." He announced as they reached the fast food restaurant. Once inside, they picked from the menu and ordered their food. The cashier looked to be about Marik's age and she gushed over Ryou constantly as they were the only people in the place at the moment. She offered him a toy out of a large box and he picked a small beanie baby that happened to be a puppy dog with floppy ears. Malik remembered reading that dogs were one of Ryou's favourite things from the boy's bio sheet. Reading that seemed like such a long time ago. . .
"Tank you." Ryou said shyly as he hugged the new toy to his chest.
She smiled, "You're welcome! And have a Merry Christmas!"
When their food was ready Malik carried it with one hand as he continued to carry Ryou with the other. Hesitating as they reached the play area, Malik decided that they wouldn't go in there. Bad experience in the past and all with those dreaded play areas. Instead, he set the tray down on a booth table and then placed Ryou on the hard seat. Seeing the problem with Ryou's size, Malik went in search of a booster seat so Ryou could reach the table.
"Better?" Malik asked once Ryou was seated.
"Yeah." Ryou nodded, nibbling on a fry. They ate in silence, but it didn't last long. Soon Ryou looked worried again and Malik could see the tears gathering in those chocolate eyes. "Mawik?" Ryou asked softly, and the Egyptian couldn't help but melt at the voice.
"Yeah?" He asked softly, trying to collect himself. /I've fallen in love. Does he have to be so adorable?/ He wondered to himself, but truly didn't mind at all.
"Is Kuwa weawwy otay? Linda neva' tewws me da twuth." Ryou explained quietly through his stuffed nose. "I don't wan' Kuwa to die." The boy began to sniffle again.
Malik, who'd been smart enough to sit right beside Ryou in the booth, pulled the boy out of the booster seat and into his lap. He wrapped his arms around the upset child and rocked him gently. "Bakura will be fine." Malik promised, hoping he was right. Bakura's lungs had been weakened, which had been cause for the respirator and his heart had been slightly strained. Though with a lot of rest and no heavy lifting, that would fix itself eventually. But how long was that going to take? How long was Bakura going to be stuck in that hospital? Ryou certainly couldn't stay with him all the time. "Hey." Malik spoke after Ryou had calmed down, "Talk to me. Tell me about you and your brother. Do you remember your father at all?" He wondered, having recalled that their mother was dead.
Ryou shook his head as he wiped his eyes, "No. I onwy 'memba' Kuwa." Ryou said softly, "He pwotected me and tooked cawe of me." He grinned proudly.
"Protected you from who?" Malik wondered, making conversation.
Ryou shrugged, "Fwom the otha' kids at the owphanage." He whispered. "The owda' kids wiked to beat me up and caww me names. Batuwa made them stop." He explained. "Evewyone just pwetends I'm not thewe now so no one picks on me anymowe." He shrugged.
Malik knew what it was like to be picked on, he was glad that Ryou had protection. Maybe the boy wouldn't turn out like himself or Bakura. "What kinds of games do you and your friends play?" Malik wondered as Ryou began to eat again.
The boy thought for a moment then smiled, "Yami weads to Yugi and me lots. Yugi wikes Chwistmas stowies. We pway Duel Monsta's but I'm not vewy good, Yugi pways wit' Seto a lot when he wants to pway Monsta's." Ryou shrugged, chewing on a fry before talking again. "I wike pwaying wit' Batuwa mowe 'cause he doesn't get mad at me if I'm not good at somefing." He explained sheepishly.
Malik smiled in understanding, his father would always get mad when he screwed up so he knew what it was like when someone was frustrated with him.
"Hey!" Ryou suddenly gasped, "You pwomised to caww Linda!" He declared, pointing at Malik.
Malik blinked, "I did didn't I?" He nodded and looked around the room for a payphone. There was one in the entranceway. Digging out a couple of quarters he set Ryou back in the seat. "Finish your meal while I call, okay?" He smiled softly, wanting to let Ryou know that there was nothing to worry about.
"Otay." Ryou nodded as he sipped his coke.
Making sure that he could see Ryou at all times; Malik went to the payphone and pulled the phonebook from its little shelf on the bottom, even though there was nobody else in building aside from the workers, he didn't want to chance losing the child. Quickly, he flipped through the white pages until he found the page he was looking for. After dialing the number for the hospital Malik leaned back against the wall and watched Ryou as the phone on the other end rang.
"Hi." Malik said into the phone as someone picked it up and said their greeting. "I'm looking for Linda Maxwell." He replied and the receptionist on the other line put him on hold. Corny music came through the ear piece and Malik rolled his eyes at the horrible noise. The elevator music was played far too long and Malik had become more than a little irritated within the first few minutes.
Just when Malik was about to lose his insanity because of the stupid music, someone picked up. "Yes?" It was Linda.
"About time." Malik tried to tease, but a yawn interrupted him. "Sorry." He mumbled
Linda laughed lightly, "You didn't sleep last night, it's understandable. I suppose you're calling to see if there's any change."
Malik nodded even though she couldn't see, "I promised Ryou I would. Anything new at all?" He wondered, hoping he could tell Ryou something good.
Linda sighed, "No. But that doesn't mean nothing will happen soon."
Malik flinched at the thought of having to tell Ryou that there was nothing new; that his brother was still lifelessly lying in a hospital bed with only mental parts keeping him alive. Sighing to himself, an idea came to Malik's mind. He could keep Ryou occupied for a little bit so the boy wouldn't think about his brother. "Linda? Would it be all right with you if I took Ryou to my place? Maybe for the night? I can give you the address, telephone number, anything you need." Malik babbled, feeling like he was suddenly kidnapping the child.
Linda laughed again; "Address and phone number will be fine. All my spies are out and too busy to have you followed." She jested, "I know Ryou doesn't want to see Bakura, but he wants to be with him in case something happens. It would be best for him not to be here, at least until Bakura wakes up. For someone who was so reluctant to meet them at first, you certainly have grown attached, haven't you." It wasn't a question, but a statement.
Malik couldn't understand why a blush spread across his cheeks. "Kinda hard not to. . ." He confessed.
There was a smile in Linda's voice, "Yes. It is."
With that Malik gave her the phone number and address to his house - he never thought of the overly large (and dare he admit unwelcoming) mansion as a home. After he'd hung up the phone, he dropped another quarter into the machine, dialed another number and waited until someone picked up the phone.
"Ishtar Residence." A snobbish speaking voice answered.
"I'd like to speak with a Mr. Mujiir please." Malik spoke; knowing that most of the servants living and working in the house didn't know what he even sounded like. He didn't want to get a lecture from someone who'd sooner have him stay away.
"Just a moment please." Luckily, he wasn't put on hold. The house had an older style of telephones - none of them had that sort of thing. The wait was just as annoying though, only without the corny insane music.
"Mr. Mujiir speaking." Someone had apparently picked up the phone.
"Hey Rishid!" Malik grinned over the line; "It's me!"
"Master." Rishid greeted monotonously but Malik could hear the hidden relief in those words. He felt guilty for making the man worry but Malik hadn't even thought of calling home before now. He'd been too worried about Bakura and had been too busy taking care of Ryou. "In the words of your friend, Mr. Devlin, where the fuck have you been?"
Malik couldn't help but laugh at that, "Sorry I haven't called, I didn't mean to worry you. Can you come and get me and I can explain everything."
"Of course." Rishid mocked him, "Well then, let me just hop in the Bat Mobile you pain in my ass and I'll just set the co-ordinance for 'Inconsiderate Prick' and I'll be there before you can say bite me."
Malik's laughter actually turned into giggles. This behaviour was usual - at least kept between the two of them. Malik didn't think anyone would understand the relationship the two had. Rishid wasn't really a servant - at least not in Malik's eyes. While growing up, Rishid had been Malik's guardian, watching him when his brother and sister were too busy to. After moving from Egypt he'd formed into a brother figure. "Thanks Rishid. And just in case you spell inconsiderate wrong, I'm at the McDonald's on 12th Street South."
There was a moment of silence, "Malik, why are you on the other side of the city?"
Malik sighed, fatigue creeping up on him. "I'll explain when I get to the house. Oh, and I won't be alone tonight either, I have someone with me."
There was yet another moment of silence.
"Not like that Rishid!" Malik growled only to hear the older man laughing in the background. The blonde sighed, "You know, if it weren't for you I'd be stuck up and boring."
"I do try." Rishid remarked. "I shall be there as soon as I can."
"Thanks." Malik replied and hung the phone up. He went back to the table where Ryou was still sitting. Malik hesitated when those large chocolate eyes stared up at him imploringly.
Sighing he shook his head, "Nothing yet, but don't give up." Malik added when Ryou looked down at the table, heartbroken. The Egyptian sat down beside him and scooped him up, rocking him gently. The ease of the action surprised both participants but neither complained nor seemed to mind. "I have someone coming to pick us up. I think we could both use some rest so we'll stay at my place the night and we'll go to the hospital first thing in the morning. Is that okay with you?"
Ryou yawned, all the crying and worrying had worn him out. "Wiww you caww Linda when we get thewe? Just to make suwe. . ." He trailed off.
Malik smiled and nodded, "I promise, as soon as we get in the door."
And the moment they had entered the large house Malik was on the phone to the hospital. Even though Ryou was asleep, cradled safely in Rishid's strong arms, Malik would have something to tell him when he woke up. Of course, nothing had changed, not that Malik had expected anything to, but he'd kept his word.
"So," Rishid spoke after Malik had hung up the phone. "Are you going to explain to me where you have been and why you have brought home a child?" He asked softly, motioning with his head to Ryou.
Malik yawned, running a hand through his hair, "Yeah, I'll explain, but not here. And would you be offended if I had a bath first?" He asked.
"I would be offended if you didn't." A smirk appeared on Rishid's face.
Malik snorted, "I don't smell that bad." He crossed his arms haughtily and turned his nose in the air.
Rishid sniffed, "I would lie to you sir, but I don't think lying is very becoming. What shall I do with him while you bathe?" He asked, moving his arms slightly and disturbing Ryou. The boy made a soft noise in the back of his throat and cuddled closer within the warmth.
Malik watched the child fondly then gently took him from Rishid. "I'll watch him, he would probably be better off sleeping in a real bed. He's been using me since we got to the hospital." He explained shortly.
Rishid nodded in understand, "After your bath, I suggest that you say hello to that beast you call a pet. He hasn't stopped whining since he found out you were missing."
Malik grinned, "I'll make sure to do that, one last favour. . .can you dig up some of my old clothes? I know Father packed all my stuff away so there'd be no reminders." He winced slightly, "Something that will fit Ryou. Please."
Rishid's eyes softened at the mention of Malik's father, "Of course. They shall be waiting in your room."
"Thank you." With that the Egyptian left the large hall, heading to his own room. Once inside his sanctuary he closed the door and gently shook Ryou awake. The boy seemed startled at first as he took in the strange surroundings, but then recognized Malik and calmed down. "We're at my house and I was going to take a bath, will you be okay here for a few minutes?" He wondered.
Fear crept into Ryou's gaze as he stared at Malik, "Can I take one too?" He wondered, not wanting to be alone.
Malik paused then slowly nodded, "I suppose. Just give me a minute." He gently sat Ryou down on the bed and went over to one of his dressers. After pulling out a pair of swimming trunks, Malik entered the bathroom and closed the door. Minutes later the door opened and Malik had undressed except for the dark purple shorts. He'd also gotten the water ready. Ryou was sitting on the bed patiently and when Malik stepped out the boy jumped off the bed and ran over to him. "Does this place scare you?" The Egyptian wondered as he picked the boy up.
Ryou shook his head and smiled, "No. Wanna hug." He replied before laying his head on Malik's shoulder.
Malik didn't quite know what to say to that, he'd gotten the idea that Ryou loved to be held, and he didn't mind at all, so he carried Ryou into the bathroom and reluctantly set him on the floor. Ryou was astonished at the size of the bathroom and the tub! It was huge! "This is the bathwoom?" He asked in amazement. "It's so big!"
Malik hated his bathroom. "It was the smallest in the house. . ." He muttered, but Ryou didn't hear. The boy quickly threw off his clothes and waited to be placed in the bathtub. It was too high for him to climb into on his own and he didn't want to chance it. Luckily, he didn't have to wait long and Malik picked him up and placed him in the warm water.
Ryou giggled as he moved his hands, causing the water to ripple away from him. He'd always loved taking baths, he liked the warmth surrounding him and he loved it when Bakura would play with him. They had a few toy boats back at the orphanage and the two brothers would wage war against each other. Ryou always won of course. His ship would sink Bakura's pirate ship in no time, but that pesky pirate just wouldn't stay sunk! It was always fixed by their next bath.
Ryou jumped slightly, startled out of his memories as something moved behind him. He turned around only to find that Malik had sat down in the water as well. Grinning to himself, Ryou pounced on the unsuspecting Egyptian.
Yelping, Malik braced himself for the attack and managed to catch Ryou, but lost his balance enough to fall back into the water. Upon surfacing Malik was faced with a hysterically giggling Ryou and though he tried to pout, the lifting sound was catchy and Malik couldn't stop the smile creeping onto his face. "You're a little trouble maker aren't you?" Malik teased.
Ryou grinned proudly, "Batuwa teached me evewyting!" He declared and Malik laughed at that as the boy settled in his lap, his back against Malik's front. "He teached me the alphabet and how to count to a hund'ed. Befowe he got sick he was teaching me to wead and wite." The boy said wistfully, wishing he could see his brother awake again. Would he be awake now? "Did you caww Linda?" He wondered softly, drawing patterns on the surface of the water.
Malik scooped some of the water into his hand and gently let it run into Ryou's long hair. "Yeah, no change. I gave Linda my phone number so she can call at anytime if something happens, okay?" He asked.
Ryou sighed but then nodded, "Otay."
After the two had finished with the bath, Malik helped Ryou to dry off with one of his large fluffy towels. Ryou, who'd been noticing a few things within the room, looked up at Malik as the Egyptian picked him up. "You wike puwple a lot, huh?" He wondered shyly, having seen the purple toothbrush, the purple hairbrush, the purple rugs and of course the large purple towel he was currently wrapped up in.
Malik grinned sheepishly, "Wait until you see the next room." He opened the bathroom door.
Ryou's eyes went wide, he hadn't noticed before since he'd still been half- asleep. The bedspread was purple and Ryou didn't doubt that the sheets and pillowcase were too. There was no carpet but Ryou was pretty sure if there had been one, it would have been purple. Even the walls had been painted a very light lavender colour and the shades on the four lamps littering the room were purple. Ryou giggled as he spotted a pair of dark purple boxers lying half in and half out of the closet.
Malik saw what he was laughing at and blushed slightly. "They'we puwple." Ryou looked at Malik.
"They're lavender." Malik pouted.
"Wooks puwple to me." Ryou shrugged.
Malik chuckled, "Yeah well. . .don't you have a favourite colour?" He wondered.
Ryou nodded happily, "I wike bue."
"Blue's a very nice colour." Malik agreed as he set the child on the bed. Rishid had been there, the clothes folded neatly on the comforter were a sure sign. "I figured you'd want to change clothes since you've been wearing what you had on for two days. Are these okay?" He wondered, motioning to the material.
"Uh huh!" Ryou nodded and pulled the clothes on. They were a little big, but Ryou seemed to like them. "They'we comfy!" He declared, hugging himself to make a point. He wasn't about to tell Malik that they smelled like the older boy, and for some reason, that made Ryou feel safe.
Malik smiled, "Good, wouldn't want them to be uncomfy. I'm going to change so I'll be right back." He went to his dresser and pulled open a drawer. He grabbed a pair of shorts and a T-shirt and went back into the bathroom. Not wanting to leave Ryou alone longer than he had to, Malik dried and changed in record time. Upon exiting the horrid bathroom, a giggle and a whine caught Malik's ear.
In the middle of the floor a puppy the size of the boy he played with was happily trotting around Ryou. Anubis licked the boy's face and nuzzled against Ryou's chest, until he realized Malik had entered the room. Barking loudly, the puppy bounded over to his master and tried to jump into Malik's arms.
"Hello mutt." Malik grinned as he knelt down to pet the dog before the animal gave itself a hernia. "You better have been nice to Ryou!" He warned and the puppy sat down on his butt and wagged his tail, as if to confirm he had.
Ryou giggled as Malik brought the pup back over to him, "Ryou, this is Anubis, Anubis, this is Ryou." He introduced them. Anubis, because he didn't have a hand to shake in greeting, licked Ryou's hand, then his cheek again.
"I like puppies." Ryou said as he stroked the fur around the animal's collar.
"I know." Malik smiled as he gently tugged Anubis' ear. Without even turning around Malik said, "Thanks for bringing him up here Rishid."
"Of course." The man who'd been standing by the door nodded, "Now, I think we should talk."
"Yeah." Malik sighed, not really wanting to talk. His bed was looking more and more welcoming as the seconds ticked by. It wasn't even suppertime yet and he was exhausted. Ryou didn't look too far behind him either. "You wanna play with Anubis for a little while?" Malik wondered, looking at the child.
Ryou beamed, "Yeah!" He nodded excitedly.
While Ryou was busy, Malik flopped down on his bed and waited for Rishid to make the first move. The older man moved away from the wall and sat across from Malik at the end of the bed. "Alright, so where did you disappear to and why didn't you at least tell Duke?" Rishid asked, "That boy has been calling here everyday looking for you! At one point he was calling every hour. It was getting a little annoying." He muttered.
Malik smiled, "Oh, you weren't worried about me at all?"
Rishid snorted, "No. Without you around I have less to worry about!" He teased lightly, "I know you can take care of yourself Malik, that's why I wasn't going too hysterical, although I was worried." The man shrugged, "Duke explained what had happened and I needed to know that you were okay. Are you?"
Malik glanced at Ryou and Anubis. "You mean from what Joey said? Yeah, no big deal." He shrugged casually.
Rishid glared at him, "You've never been able to lie to me and you're not being convincing now. I know what Mr. Wheeler is like and I know what you are like." He pointed out stubbornly.
Malik smiled softly. Rishid had always been the one to worry about him. While growing up the man had always been there and when Malik had been too afraid to go to Isis or Marik, he'd gone to Rishid. It was like having another brother. "You're right. I wasn't okay at first. But I'm okay now, really." The Egyptian promised and after a few hesitant moments, Rishid deduced that he was being truthful. "I ran after Bakura and Ryou. I just couldn't let them think that way about me. I've never really cared before, but I didn't want them to see me as a snob." He shrugged self- consciously. "And I didn't want them to think I meant it when I had said they were nobodies."
"Understandable." Rishid nodded.
Malik sighed and leaned against his headboard, "I followed them to the orphanage and while I was talking to Bakura he just. . .collapsed. An ambulance was called and he was taken to the hospital. Ryou had latched on to me and wouldn't let me go, so I went with him when Linda - she works at the orphanage - drove him there." He muffled a slight yawn, "I stayed with Ryou and watched over him, Linda was busy with other things that needed to be taken care of and all the nurses had other jobs." He shrugged.
"And you couldn't pick up a phone?" Rishid raised an eyebrow, "Truly, you have no concept of annoyance until you have Duke Devlin calling you constantly."
Malik giggled quietly, "I suppose that would be rather annoying. After Duke gives me a lecture and we have make up sex, I'll talk to him about his bad phone habits and then we can have more make up sex." He smirked evilly.
Rishid made a face that was followed by a disgusted noise, "Malik, I have never had a problem with your way of life, but please, do not put that mental image in my head!" The man covered his eyes, as if it would block out the picture.
Malik only laughed again; "Sorry Rishid - but I had to say it!" The Egyptian grinned, but then calmed some; "Truthfully, I didn't even think about phoning anyone. I didn't even really know how long time had passed until Linda told me. We'll be going to the hospital again tomorrow." Malik explained as he glanced over at Ryou. It had gotten quiet on the other side of the room and Malik's heart melted at the reason why.
Anubis had curled up in a ball and was letting Ryou use him as a pillow. The sleeping boy and the sleeping dog looked content where they were.
Rishid blinked as well, Anubis was hardly ever still, it was amazing to see him sleeping so calmly. He turned to Malik; "Can we keep him?" He asked.
Malik seemed confused, "Who? Anubis? Of course we're keeping him!"
"No!" Rishid shook his head, "Ryou! We need someone who can calm that beast down!"
Malik only chuckled as he got off the bed and went over to the pair. Gently he picked Ryou up and cradled the boy to his chest. The small child immediately snuggled into the warmth, but Anubis woke up. He looked up at Malik and seemed to pout. The Egyptian rolled his eyes, "Oh be quiet. He's a human and sleeps in a bed. I suppose I can let you sleep with us." He muttered, taking Ryou to the bed.
Rishid had pulled the covers (revealing the pale violet sheets and matching pillowcases) down so Malik could lay the small body underneath. When Ryou was tucked in, Anubis decided to join the boy. After circling three times - an action Malik couldn't understand - the Pharaoh Hound plopped down next to Ryou and closed his eyes.
Rishid snorted. "Should have called him 'Stupid'." He muttered before gently wrapping his arms around Malik, hugging the younger man close. "I hope your friend is well tomorrow and I know he will get better. You have to bring him here so I can meet him." He smiled and kissed Malik's forehead. "Sleep well." And with that Malik was left alone.
Yawning to himself and hardly being able to keep his eyes open, Malik shut the lights off and crawled into the bed beside Ryou. He was asleep before his head hit the pillow.
- - -
NOTES:
I haven't really looked into the schools in Egypt so I'm not really sure if they even have schools in Egypt. I'm pretty sure they do, and I figure Malik's family is rich enough so he'd at least have a private tutor or something.
I have to quote Yami Bakura: "McDonalds. . .*shutters*. . .Can't sleep. . .Clown will eat me. . ." ^_^ Sorry, I doubt anyone will actually get this. And it's really from the Simpson's. But besides that, if you do get it, I'll dedicate the next chapter to you ^_^ (Wow, what an honour eh?)
I hope Ryou bathing with Malik offended no one. My Malik Muse has hounded me for three days for that scene and I had to make him shut up. He loves Chibi Ryous.
I think Malik likes purple, okay? I have everything blue, I even recently dyed my hair blue ^_^. It could be worse; I could have made Malik's favourite colour pink after all.
Also, I didn't want Rishid to be his old stuffy 'Yes Master Malik' this and 'Of course Master Malik' that. Don't like his new personality, see if I care. And speaking of Rishid, Mujiir was just a name I picked because Rishid wasn't adopted into Malik's family in this story. It means 'defender' in Arabic/Egyptian and no, it's not important.
COMMENTS:
ShadowSpirit - the sweet picture of Mariku and Joey was nice, but where's my fic? I updated for you and update for me! *L* ^_^
Yami Yami Yugi - "After that I think I can accept ANY yaoi pairing thanks to you." So if I were going to write a Grandpa/Malik lemon, you'd like it?
Kaira-chan - I had wondered about which way it was spelled and there had been nobody to ask at the time. Thank you! (Did I spell 'beanie' right in this chapter? Wasn't too sure about that either, I don't have any beanie babies to check.)
Kira-Kura - About the no character deaths. Yes well, ahem, YOU talk to my muses then. Marik Muse loves death and torment and he kinda took over for a little while. Also, promise not to tell, but I feel dirty writing something else besides Malik/Ryou. Well, as it's involving Malik anyway. My Pegasus/Malik pairing was not my choice, so I don't feel so bad writing it. Vsakura - well, so far it's Duke/Malik, but it had been that way since before the time the first chapter was written. (Does that make sense any? Didn't think so.) It's supposed to be turning into a Malik/Bakura but my muses aren't cooperating.
Shanii - Tea not in the fic? Re-read chapter one really carefully. And I like Tea, really I do, she and Tristan are just the easiest to use when I need a mean character. (Sorry guys, I do like Tea even though she's kinda dizzy, ya know?) Chibi For A Day's a humour story, I think I've bashed everybody in that one. So I answer with # 4: She's in the fic!
To anyone who's confused about Bakura dying:
No. He's not. *sad* I'll have to torture him in another fic.
Comments to reviews at the end of chapter.
- - -
Tis The Season
Warnings: Christmas angst. AU. No character death. Can't I even make a character sick without everyone thinking I'm gonna off him in the next chapter? Then again, Baku's still sick. Maybe I will off him just to please so many of you. ^_^
Pairings: You'll just have to wait and see.
/ thoughts /
*italics*
- - -
Chapter Seven
Bleary lavender eyes stared at the motionless figure lying in the large hospital bed. The off white colour of the pillowcases and sheets made Bakura look deathly pale. The machines the boy was hooked up to weren't helping the matter any. The boy was having his heart monitored, his vital signs constantly being read and to make things even more horrifying for the teen's little brother, Bakura couldn't breathe on his own so he'd been put on a respirator.
To make matters worse, Bakura had been unconscious since he'd collapsed at the orphanage. After speaking with the doctors, Linda had told himself and Ryou that it had been because Bakura hadn't been eating much and he hadn't had anything to eat the entire day he collapsed. Also, he was still suffering from his earlier illness and it was obvious he was stressed over things. Linda didn't need to elaborate on what sort of things; Malik could figure it out.
Bakura had been taking care of Ryou for most of his life. He provided for the child, took care of the child and he sacrificed a lot for the boy. Ryou had *become* Bakura's child, and like every single teenaged parent, Bakura had a lot of responsibility. That of course, had taken its toll, which was why they were at the hospital in the first place.
A soft whimper drew Malik's attention down to the boy cuddled in his lap. Ryou had been worried and scared for the past two days. The doctor, who had young children of her own, had finally decided to take pity on the boy and had given him a sedative. The boy had almost instantly fallen asleep on the couch across the room from the bed, however, plagued with nightmares Ryou seemed to only sleep peacefully if he were held. The only person around to do that was Malik.
It was easy enough really, Ryou was the same age as Amurra was, well, had been last year anyway. The difference between the two boys was that Ryou actually liked to be held. Six-year old Amurra wasn't used to the contact, seeing as how Marik was always too busy to be with him and his mother, whom Malik had never actually met, didn't like kids. Malik found himself enjoying the feeling as Ryou cuddled against him to stay warm.
He glanced down and found himself staring into large confused eyes. Smiling softly at the boy, Malik gave him a chance to remember everything that had happened. Once recognition came to him, Malik helped Ryou to sit up. The small boy yawned sleepily and rubbed the sleep out of one of his eyes as he leaned against Malik's chest. "Feel a little better?" The Egyptian wondered, keeping his voice low.
Ryou nodded, leaning into the warmth of the older boy's body. Having someone new hold him was strange, but Malik was very comfortable. He glanced up at Malik questioningly after a few moments, his worry getting the better of him. "Batuwa?" He whispered, as if the name could do some harm to the body lying in the bed. Malik had noticed that Ryou refused to look at his brother and the Egyptian understood completely.
"He's still sleeping." Malik answered, gently running his fingers through Ryou's hair. Malik had learned what this small action did to calm the child and he wasn't disappointed. Ryou purred as he leaned into the touch and they sat quietly together listening to the heart monitor and the respirator. Malik hadn't felt so helpless since he'd first been shipped off to Canada and separated from his family.
Malik sighed as he hugged Ryou closer, wondering why he was even there. He didn't want anymore attachments; they never seemed to last long. First had been Marik and Isis, basically his parents when he was growing up. Then his father had forced him - quite literally - onto a plane bound for Canada. He'd been taken out of school during the middle of the year and when he'd gotten to Canada and registered he had been told he'd have to wait until the year ended and he'd have to redo grade nine completely.
Then there had been Duke. The two had quickly become inseparable before Malik became 'Pharaoh' and they had slowly begun a relationship with a lot of shy kisses, plenty of cuddling and they were always holding hands. Malik had foolishly given Duke his heart on a hot summer night between the end of grade ten and before grade eleven. Malik had gone away for the winter in love and had come back only to have his heart broken.
During the winter months, Duke had found an attraction to Mai and it had seemed like Malik had been replaced. Duke would still give Malik physical comfort, but that wasn't what the Egyptian teen was looking for at all.
Now there was Bakura. Malik had only really known him for less than twenty- four hours but he was drawn to the other, and it wasn't only Bakura either. Ryou was a part of the package and Malik was positive that even the most cold hearted person would fall in love with the child. But Bakura would probably be taken away too and when Bakura was gone, where would Ryou go?
Shaking his head to wake himself from his depressing thoughts, Malik realized that they were no longer alone. Linda smiled as she sat in the chair across from Malik on the other side of the bed. "The doctor says he's still stable." She sighed; looking as tired as Malik felt. "But they're not sure when he'll wake up." She yawned from exhaustion caused by hours of worrying. She looked away from Malik and to Ryou. Once seeing that he was awake, she got up and knelt beside Malik's chair. "Hey sweetheart." She gently kissed his forehead, "Do you feel better after your nap?" She asked.
"I wan' Batuwa." Ryou mumbled unhappily as one of his small hands grabbed a handful of Malik's shirt.
Linda smiled sadly, "I know kiddo, but your brother is really sick right now and he needs rest. He wouldn't want you to worry, now you haven't eaten much and we don't need you making yourself sick too." At this she looked at Malik, "Will you be willing to take him somewhere to eat? The food here isn't all that great." She admitted, "And I'll pay you."
Malik shook his head, "We'll go somewhere but I won't take your money." He said, somewhat insulted.
Linda saw this, "I meant nothing by it and I apologize. I suppose I'm used to having to bribe some of the kids to do stuff. And thank you for looking after him." She stood and kissed Malik's head. "I have to go make a phone call so I'll see you two later." She promised and after making sure Bakura was tucked in, she left the room.
Malik carefully stood up with Ryou in his arms. Their jackets had been hung in the small closet by the door where the patient could keep some of their own things. Wordlessly Malik helped Ryou into his jacket before pulling on his own. Upon turning back to the child Malik stopped to watch him as the boy stared at his brother. Slowly, he moved beside Ryou and knelt down so he could see the child's face.
Brilliant brown eyes turned to him, "What if he wakes up when I'm not hewe?" He wondered softly, worry twined in his voice.
Malik smiled softly, "Then he'll be happy to know that you got out of here and got something to eat. When we get to a place we can eat, I'll call back to see if there's any changes, how's that?" He wondered, not wanting the boy to be so worried. He liked it better when Ryou smiled.
Ryou seemed to think on it as he looked at his brother's immobile body. Finally, the boy looked back at his keeper and nodded, holding out his hand for Malik to take. Malik took a gentle hold on Ryou's small hand and together they exited the hospital room.
The weather outside had gotten unnaturally warm for being so close to Christmas and the one jacket Malik was wearing was actually enough to keep him warm. Before leaving the hospital Malik had asked a nurse if there was a place to eat nearby and she had directed him to a McDonald's just a couple of blocks away, that was where they were headed.
The walk was slow as Malik kept to Ryou's pace, but he didn't mind at all. It was nice being out of the hospital, and two days straight without stepping out side - even if it was to a world of snow - had been torture. The last time Malik had been in a hospital, he'd almost lost his best friend to appendicitis, but even after finding out how close he'd come to dying, Duke paid it little mind.
A tug on his arm caused Malik to focus in front of him and he realized the tug had come from Ryou. Ryou had stopped moving and had his head down. Malik quickly knelt down beside him and gently lifted the boy's chin to find tears streaming down Ryou's flushed cheeks. "Ryou? What's wrong?" He wondered softly, "Linda said he was stable, he just needs rest." He tried.
Ryou only shook his head and sniffled, the tears falling faster this time. "Batuwa's my bwotha! He's my onwy fammy. I love him! I dun' wan' him to die!" The boy sobbed, bringing up his small hands and burying his face within them.
Malik sighed softly and rubbed the boy's back through his jacket. After a few more minutes, when it became clear that Ryou wasn't going to move Malik stood up and picked the slightly startled boy up. Ryou blinked cutely as he clutched to Malik's jacket before realizing what had happened. Whimpering to himself he wiped at his tears but settled down within Malik's grasp.
"You're still tired." Malik remarked as he continued walking. It may have been warm out, but it was still cold enough, and standing in one place was doing nothing for them.
"Yeah." Ryou sniffed in a tiny voice.
Malik looked down at him as he walked, "Are you hungry at all? Linda kinda forced us out of there." He began but stopped as Ryou nodded.
"A widdle." He confessed, only to blush as his tummy growled loudly, as if in protest of the boy's comment. Malik raised an eyebrow at the boy, "Otay," Ryou giggled for the first time in two days, "A wot."
Malik chuckled at the boy, growing attached with each moment more he spent with the child. "Well then, let's get something to eat." He announced as they reached the fast food restaurant. Once inside, they picked from the menu and ordered their food. The cashier looked to be about Marik's age and she gushed over Ryou constantly as they were the only people in the place at the moment. She offered him a toy out of a large box and he picked a small beanie baby that happened to be a puppy dog with floppy ears. Malik remembered reading that dogs were one of Ryou's favourite things from the boy's bio sheet. Reading that seemed like such a long time ago. . .
"Tank you." Ryou said shyly as he hugged the new toy to his chest.
She smiled, "You're welcome! And have a Merry Christmas!"
When their food was ready Malik carried it with one hand as he continued to carry Ryou with the other. Hesitating as they reached the play area, Malik decided that they wouldn't go in there. Bad experience in the past and all with those dreaded play areas. Instead, he set the tray down on a booth table and then placed Ryou on the hard seat. Seeing the problem with Ryou's size, Malik went in search of a booster seat so Ryou could reach the table.
"Better?" Malik asked once Ryou was seated.
"Yeah." Ryou nodded, nibbling on a fry. They ate in silence, but it didn't last long. Soon Ryou looked worried again and Malik could see the tears gathering in those chocolate eyes. "Mawik?" Ryou asked softly, and the Egyptian couldn't help but melt at the voice.
"Yeah?" He asked softly, trying to collect himself. /I've fallen in love. Does he have to be so adorable?/ He wondered to himself, but truly didn't mind at all.
"Is Kuwa weawwy otay? Linda neva' tewws me da twuth." Ryou explained quietly through his stuffed nose. "I don't wan' Kuwa to die." The boy began to sniffle again.
Malik, who'd been smart enough to sit right beside Ryou in the booth, pulled the boy out of the booster seat and into his lap. He wrapped his arms around the upset child and rocked him gently. "Bakura will be fine." Malik promised, hoping he was right. Bakura's lungs had been weakened, which had been cause for the respirator and his heart had been slightly strained. Though with a lot of rest and no heavy lifting, that would fix itself eventually. But how long was that going to take? How long was Bakura going to be stuck in that hospital? Ryou certainly couldn't stay with him all the time. "Hey." Malik spoke after Ryou had calmed down, "Talk to me. Tell me about you and your brother. Do you remember your father at all?" He wondered, having recalled that their mother was dead.
Ryou shook his head as he wiped his eyes, "No. I onwy 'memba' Kuwa." Ryou said softly, "He pwotected me and tooked cawe of me." He grinned proudly.
"Protected you from who?" Malik wondered, making conversation.
Ryou shrugged, "Fwom the otha' kids at the owphanage." He whispered. "The owda' kids wiked to beat me up and caww me names. Batuwa made them stop." He explained. "Evewyone just pwetends I'm not thewe now so no one picks on me anymowe." He shrugged.
Malik knew what it was like to be picked on, he was glad that Ryou had protection. Maybe the boy wouldn't turn out like himself or Bakura. "What kinds of games do you and your friends play?" Malik wondered as Ryou began to eat again.
The boy thought for a moment then smiled, "Yami weads to Yugi and me lots. Yugi wikes Chwistmas stowies. We pway Duel Monsta's but I'm not vewy good, Yugi pways wit' Seto a lot when he wants to pway Monsta's." Ryou shrugged, chewing on a fry before talking again. "I wike pwaying wit' Batuwa mowe 'cause he doesn't get mad at me if I'm not good at somefing." He explained sheepishly.
Malik smiled in understanding, his father would always get mad when he screwed up so he knew what it was like when someone was frustrated with him.
"Hey!" Ryou suddenly gasped, "You pwomised to caww Linda!" He declared, pointing at Malik.
Malik blinked, "I did didn't I?" He nodded and looked around the room for a payphone. There was one in the entranceway. Digging out a couple of quarters he set Ryou back in the seat. "Finish your meal while I call, okay?" He smiled softly, wanting to let Ryou know that there was nothing to worry about.
"Otay." Ryou nodded as he sipped his coke.
Making sure that he could see Ryou at all times; Malik went to the payphone and pulled the phonebook from its little shelf on the bottom, even though there was nobody else in building aside from the workers, he didn't want to chance losing the child. Quickly, he flipped through the white pages until he found the page he was looking for. After dialing the number for the hospital Malik leaned back against the wall and watched Ryou as the phone on the other end rang.
"Hi." Malik said into the phone as someone picked it up and said their greeting. "I'm looking for Linda Maxwell." He replied and the receptionist on the other line put him on hold. Corny music came through the ear piece and Malik rolled his eyes at the horrible noise. The elevator music was played far too long and Malik had become more than a little irritated within the first few minutes.
Just when Malik was about to lose his insanity because of the stupid music, someone picked up. "Yes?" It was Linda.
"About time." Malik tried to tease, but a yawn interrupted him. "Sorry." He mumbled
Linda laughed lightly, "You didn't sleep last night, it's understandable. I suppose you're calling to see if there's any change."
Malik nodded even though she couldn't see, "I promised Ryou I would. Anything new at all?" He wondered, hoping he could tell Ryou something good.
Linda sighed, "No. But that doesn't mean nothing will happen soon."
Malik flinched at the thought of having to tell Ryou that there was nothing new; that his brother was still lifelessly lying in a hospital bed with only mental parts keeping him alive. Sighing to himself, an idea came to Malik's mind. He could keep Ryou occupied for a little bit so the boy wouldn't think about his brother. "Linda? Would it be all right with you if I took Ryou to my place? Maybe for the night? I can give you the address, telephone number, anything you need." Malik babbled, feeling like he was suddenly kidnapping the child.
Linda laughed again; "Address and phone number will be fine. All my spies are out and too busy to have you followed." She jested, "I know Ryou doesn't want to see Bakura, but he wants to be with him in case something happens. It would be best for him not to be here, at least until Bakura wakes up. For someone who was so reluctant to meet them at first, you certainly have grown attached, haven't you." It wasn't a question, but a statement.
Malik couldn't understand why a blush spread across his cheeks. "Kinda hard not to. . ." He confessed.
There was a smile in Linda's voice, "Yes. It is."
With that Malik gave her the phone number and address to his house - he never thought of the overly large (and dare he admit unwelcoming) mansion as a home. After he'd hung up the phone, he dropped another quarter into the machine, dialed another number and waited until someone picked up the phone.
"Ishtar Residence." A snobbish speaking voice answered.
"I'd like to speak with a Mr. Mujiir please." Malik spoke; knowing that most of the servants living and working in the house didn't know what he even sounded like. He didn't want to get a lecture from someone who'd sooner have him stay away.
"Just a moment please." Luckily, he wasn't put on hold. The house had an older style of telephones - none of them had that sort of thing. The wait was just as annoying though, only without the corny insane music.
"Mr. Mujiir speaking." Someone had apparently picked up the phone.
"Hey Rishid!" Malik grinned over the line; "It's me!"
"Master." Rishid greeted monotonously but Malik could hear the hidden relief in those words. He felt guilty for making the man worry but Malik hadn't even thought of calling home before now. He'd been too worried about Bakura and had been too busy taking care of Ryou. "In the words of your friend, Mr. Devlin, where the fuck have you been?"
Malik couldn't help but laugh at that, "Sorry I haven't called, I didn't mean to worry you. Can you come and get me and I can explain everything."
"Of course." Rishid mocked him, "Well then, let me just hop in the Bat Mobile you pain in my ass and I'll just set the co-ordinance for 'Inconsiderate Prick' and I'll be there before you can say bite me."
Malik's laughter actually turned into giggles. This behaviour was usual - at least kept between the two of them. Malik didn't think anyone would understand the relationship the two had. Rishid wasn't really a servant - at least not in Malik's eyes. While growing up, Rishid had been Malik's guardian, watching him when his brother and sister were too busy to. After moving from Egypt he'd formed into a brother figure. "Thanks Rishid. And just in case you spell inconsiderate wrong, I'm at the McDonald's on 12th Street South."
There was a moment of silence, "Malik, why are you on the other side of the city?"
Malik sighed, fatigue creeping up on him. "I'll explain when I get to the house. Oh, and I won't be alone tonight either, I have someone with me."
There was yet another moment of silence.
"Not like that Rishid!" Malik growled only to hear the older man laughing in the background. The blonde sighed, "You know, if it weren't for you I'd be stuck up and boring."
"I do try." Rishid remarked. "I shall be there as soon as I can."
"Thanks." Malik replied and hung the phone up. He went back to the table where Ryou was still sitting. Malik hesitated when those large chocolate eyes stared up at him imploringly.
Sighing he shook his head, "Nothing yet, but don't give up." Malik added when Ryou looked down at the table, heartbroken. The Egyptian sat down beside him and scooped him up, rocking him gently. The ease of the action surprised both participants but neither complained nor seemed to mind. "I have someone coming to pick us up. I think we could both use some rest so we'll stay at my place the night and we'll go to the hospital first thing in the morning. Is that okay with you?"
Ryou yawned, all the crying and worrying had worn him out. "Wiww you caww Linda when we get thewe? Just to make suwe. . ." He trailed off.
Malik smiled and nodded, "I promise, as soon as we get in the door."
And the moment they had entered the large house Malik was on the phone to the hospital. Even though Ryou was asleep, cradled safely in Rishid's strong arms, Malik would have something to tell him when he woke up. Of course, nothing had changed, not that Malik had expected anything to, but he'd kept his word.
"So," Rishid spoke after Malik had hung up the phone. "Are you going to explain to me where you have been and why you have brought home a child?" He asked softly, motioning with his head to Ryou.
Malik yawned, running a hand through his hair, "Yeah, I'll explain, but not here. And would you be offended if I had a bath first?" He asked.
"I would be offended if you didn't." A smirk appeared on Rishid's face.
Malik snorted, "I don't smell that bad." He crossed his arms haughtily and turned his nose in the air.
Rishid sniffed, "I would lie to you sir, but I don't think lying is very becoming. What shall I do with him while you bathe?" He asked, moving his arms slightly and disturbing Ryou. The boy made a soft noise in the back of his throat and cuddled closer within the warmth.
Malik watched the child fondly then gently took him from Rishid. "I'll watch him, he would probably be better off sleeping in a real bed. He's been using me since we got to the hospital." He explained shortly.
Rishid nodded in understand, "After your bath, I suggest that you say hello to that beast you call a pet. He hasn't stopped whining since he found out you were missing."
Malik grinned, "I'll make sure to do that, one last favour. . .can you dig up some of my old clothes? I know Father packed all my stuff away so there'd be no reminders." He winced slightly, "Something that will fit Ryou. Please."
Rishid's eyes softened at the mention of Malik's father, "Of course. They shall be waiting in your room."
"Thank you." With that the Egyptian left the large hall, heading to his own room. Once inside his sanctuary he closed the door and gently shook Ryou awake. The boy seemed startled at first as he took in the strange surroundings, but then recognized Malik and calmed down. "We're at my house and I was going to take a bath, will you be okay here for a few minutes?" He wondered.
Fear crept into Ryou's gaze as he stared at Malik, "Can I take one too?" He wondered, not wanting to be alone.
Malik paused then slowly nodded, "I suppose. Just give me a minute." He gently sat Ryou down on the bed and went over to one of his dressers. After pulling out a pair of swimming trunks, Malik entered the bathroom and closed the door. Minutes later the door opened and Malik had undressed except for the dark purple shorts. He'd also gotten the water ready. Ryou was sitting on the bed patiently and when Malik stepped out the boy jumped off the bed and ran over to him. "Does this place scare you?" The Egyptian wondered as he picked the boy up.
Ryou shook his head and smiled, "No. Wanna hug." He replied before laying his head on Malik's shoulder.
Malik didn't quite know what to say to that, he'd gotten the idea that Ryou loved to be held, and he didn't mind at all, so he carried Ryou into the bathroom and reluctantly set him on the floor. Ryou was astonished at the size of the bathroom and the tub! It was huge! "This is the bathwoom?" He asked in amazement. "It's so big!"
Malik hated his bathroom. "It was the smallest in the house. . ." He muttered, but Ryou didn't hear. The boy quickly threw off his clothes and waited to be placed in the bathtub. It was too high for him to climb into on his own and he didn't want to chance it. Luckily, he didn't have to wait long and Malik picked him up and placed him in the warm water.
Ryou giggled as he moved his hands, causing the water to ripple away from him. He'd always loved taking baths, he liked the warmth surrounding him and he loved it when Bakura would play with him. They had a few toy boats back at the orphanage and the two brothers would wage war against each other. Ryou always won of course. His ship would sink Bakura's pirate ship in no time, but that pesky pirate just wouldn't stay sunk! It was always fixed by their next bath.
Ryou jumped slightly, startled out of his memories as something moved behind him. He turned around only to find that Malik had sat down in the water as well. Grinning to himself, Ryou pounced on the unsuspecting Egyptian.
Yelping, Malik braced himself for the attack and managed to catch Ryou, but lost his balance enough to fall back into the water. Upon surfacing Malik was faced with a hysterically giggling Ryou and though he tried to pout, the lifting sound was catchy and Malik couldn't stop the smile creeping onto his face. "You're a little trouble maker aren't you?" Malik teased.
Ryou grinned proudly, "Batuwa teached me evewyting!" He declared and Malik laughed at that as the boy settled in his lap, his back against Malik's front. "He teached me the alphabet and how to count to a hund'ed. Befowe he got sick he was teaching me to wead and wite." The boy said wistfully, wishing he could see his brother awake again. Would he be awake now? "Did you caww Linda?" He wondered softly, drawing patterns on the surface of the water.
Malik scooped some of the water into his hand and gently let it run into Ryou's long hair. "Yeah, no change. I gave Linda my phone number so she can call at anytime if something happens, okay?" He asked.
Ryou sighed but then nodded, "Otay."
After the two had finished with the bath, Malik helped Ryou to dry off with one of his large fluffy towels. Ryou, who'd been noticing a few things within the room, looked up at Malik as the Egyptian picked him up. "You wike puwple a lot, huh?" He wondered shyly, having seen the purple toothbrush, the purple hairbrush, the purple rugs and of course the large purple towel he was currently wrapped up in.
Malik grinned sheepishly, "Wait until you see the next room." He opened the bathroom door.
Ryou's eyes went wide, he hadn't noticed before since he'd still been half- asleep. The bedspread was purple and Ryou didn't doubt that the sheets and pillowcase were too. There was no carpet but Ryou was pretty sure if there had been one, it would have been purple. Even the walls had been painted a very light lavender colour and the shades on the four lamps littering the room were purple. Ryou giggled as he spotted a pair of dark purple boxers lying half in and half out of the closet.
Malik saw what he was laughing at and blushed slightly. "They'we puwple." Ryou looked at Malik.
"They're lavender." Malik pouted.
"Wooks puwple to me." Ryou shrugged.
Malik chuckled, "Yeah well. . .don't you have a favourite colour?" He wondered.
Ryou nodded happily, "I wike bue."
"Blue's a very nice colour." Malik agreed as he set the child on the bed. Rishid had been there, the clothes folded neatly on the comforter were a sure sign. "I figured you'd want to change clothes since you've been wearing what you had on for two days. Are these okay?" He wondered, motioning to the material.
"Uh huh!" Ryou nodded and pulled the clothes on. They were a little big, but Ryou seemed to like them. "They'we comfy!" He declared, hugging himself to make a point. He wasn't about to tell Malik that they smelled like the older boy, and for some reason, that made Ryou feel safe.
Malik smiled, "Good, wouldn't want them to be uncomfy. I'm going to change so I'll be right back." He went to his dresser and pulled open a drawer. He grabbed a pair of shorts and a T-shirt and went back into the bathroom. Not wanting to leave Ryou alone longer than he had to, Malik dried and changed in record time. Upon exiting the horrid bathroom, a giggle and a whine caught Malik's ear.
In the middle of the floor a puppy the size of the boy he played with was happily trotting around Ryou. Anubis licked the boy's face and nuzzled against Ryou's chest, until he realized Malik had entered the room. Barking loudly, the puppy bounded over to his master and tried to jump into Malik's arms.
"Hello mutt." Malik grinned as he knelt down to pet the dog before the animal gave itself a hernia. "You better have been nice to Ryou!" He warned and the puppy sat down on his butt and wagged his tail, as if to confirm he had.
Ryou giggled as Malik brought the pup back over to him, "Ryou, this is Anubis, Anubis, this is Ryou." He introduced them. Anubis, because he didn't have a hand to shake in greeting, licked Ryou's hand, then his cheek again.
"I like puppies." Ryou said as he stroked the fur around the animal's collar.
"I know." Malik smiled as he gently tugged Anubis' ear. Without even turning around Malik said, "Thanks for bringing him up here Rishid."
"Of course." The man who'd been standing by the door nodded, "Now, I think we should talk."
"Yeah." Malik sighed, not really wanting to talk. His bed was looking more and more welcoming as the seconds ticked by. It wasn't even suppertime yet and he was exhausted. Ryou didn't look too far behind him either. "You wanna play with Anubis for a little while?" Malik wondered, looking at the child.
Ryou beamed, "Yeah!" He nodded excitedly.
While Ryou was busy, Malik flopped down on his bed and waited for Rishid to make the first move. The older man moved away from the wall and sat across from Malik at the end of the bed. "Alright, so where did you disappear to and why didn't you at least tell Duke?" Rishid asked, "That boy has been calling here everyday looking for you! At one point he was calling every hour. It was getting a little annoying." He muttered.
Malik smiled, "Oh, you weren't worried about me at all?"
Rishid snorted, "No. Without you around I have less to worry about!" He teased lightly, "I know you can take care of yourself Malik, that's why I wasn't going too hysterical, although I was worried." The man shrugged, "Duke explained what had happened and I needed to know that you were okay. Are you?"
Malik glanced at Ryou and Anubis. "You mean from what Joey said? Yeah, no big deal." He shrugged casually.
Rishid glared at him, "You've never been able to lie to me and you're not being convincing now. I know what Mr. Wheeler is like and I know what you are like." He pointed out stubbornly.
Malik smiled softly. Rishid had always been the one to worry about him. While growing up the man had always been there and when Malik had been too afraid to go to Isis or Marik, he'd gone to Rishid. It was like having another brother. "You're right. I wasn't okay at first. But I'm okay now, really." The Egyptian promised and after a few hesitant moments, Rishid deduced that he was being truthful. "I ran after Bakura and Ryou. I just couldn't let them think that way about me. I've never really cared before, but I didn't want them to see me as a snob." He shrugged self- consciously. "And I didn't want them to think I meant it when I had said they were nobodies."
"Understandable." Rishid nodded.
Malik sighed and leaned against his headboard, "I followed them to the orphanage and while I was talking to Bakura he just. . .collapsed. An ambulance was called and he was taken to the hospital. Ryou had latched on to me and wouldn't let me go, so I went with him when Linda - she works at the orphanage - drove him there." He muffled a slight yawn, "I stayed with Ryou and watched over him, Linda was busy with other things that needed to be taken care of and all the nurses had other jobs." He shrugged.
"And you couldn't pick up a phone?" Rishid raised an eyebrow, "Truly, you have no concept of annoyance until you have Duke Devlin calling you constantly."
Malik giggled quietly, "I suppose that would be rather annoying. After Duke gives me a lecture and we have make up sex, I'll talk to him about his bad phone habits and then we can have more make up sex." He smirked evilly.
Rishid made a face that was followed by a disgusted noise, "Malik, I have never had a problem with your way of life, but please, do not put that mental image in my head!" The man covered his eyes, as if it would block out the picture.
Malik only laughed again; "Sorry Rishid - but I had to say it!" The Egyptian grinned, but then calmed some; "Truthfully, I didn't even think about phoning anyone. I didn't even really know how long time had passed until Linda told me. We'll be going to the hospital again tomorrow." Malik explained as he glanced over at Ryou. It had gotten quiet on the other side of the room and Malik's heart melted at the reason why.
Anubis had curled up in a ball and was letting Ryou use him as a pillow. The sleeping boy and the sleeping dog looked content where they were.
Rishid blinked as well, Anubis was hardly ever still, it was amazing to see him sleeping so calmly. He turned to Malik; "Can we keep him?" He asked.
Malik seemed confused, "Who? Anubis? Of course we're keeping him!"
"No!" Rishid shook his head, "Ryou! We need someone who can calm that beast down!"
Malik only chuckled as he got off the bed and went over to the pair. Gently he picked Ryou up and cradled the boy to his chest. The small child immediately snuggled into the warmth, but Anubis woke up. He looked up at Malik and seemed to pout. The Egyptian rolled his eyes, "Oh be quiet. He's a human and sleeps in a bed. I suppose I can let you sleep with us." He muttered, taking Ryou to the bed.
Rishid had pulled the covers (revealing the pale violet sheets and matching pillowcases) down so Malik could lay the small body underneath. When Ryou was tucked in, Anubis decided to join the boy. After circling three times - an action Malik couldn't understand - the Pharaoh Hound plopped down next to Ryou and closed his eyes.
Rishid snorted. "Should have called him 'Stupid'." He muttered before gently wrapping his arms around Malik, hugging the younger man close. "I hope your friend is well tomorrow and I know he will get better. You have to bring him here so I can meet him." He smiled and kissed Malik's forehead. "Sleep well." And with that Malik was left alone.
Yawning to himself and hardly being able to keep his eyes open, Malik shut the lights off and crawled into the bed beside Ryou. He was asleep before his head hit the pillow.
- - -
NOTES:
I haven't really looked into the schools in Egypt so I'm not really sure if they even have schools in Egypt. I'm pretty sure they do, and I figure Malik's family is rich enough so he'd at least have a private tutor or something.
I have to quote Yami Bakura: "McDonalds. . .*shutters*. . .Can't sleep. . .Clown will eat me. . ." ^_^ Sorry, I doubt anyone will actually get this. And it's really from the Simpson's. But besides that, if you do get it, I'll dedicate the next chapter to you ^_^ (Wow, what an honour eh?)
I hope Ryou bathing with Malik offended no one. My Malik Muse has hounded me for three days for that scene and I had to make him shut up. He loves Chibi Ryous.
I think Malik likes purple, okay? I have everything blue, I even recently dyed my hair blue ^_^. It could be worse; I could have made Malik's favourite colour pink after all.
Also, I didn't want Rishid to be his old stuffy 'Yes Master Malik' this and 'Of course Master Malik' that. Don't like his new personality, see if I care. And speaking of Rishid, Mujiir was just a name I picked because Rishid wasn't adopted into Malik's family in this story. It means 'defender' in Arabic/Egyptian and no, it's not important.
COMMENTS:
ShadowSpirit - the sweet picture of Mariku and Joey was nice, but where's my fic? I updated for you and update for me! *L* ^_^
Yami Yami Yugi - "After that I think I can accept ANY yaoi pairing thanks to you." So if I were going to write a Grandpa/Malik lemon, you'd like it?
Kaira-chan - I had wondered about which way it was spelled and there had been nobody to ask at the time. Thank you! (Did I spell 'beanie' right in this chapter? Wasn't too sure about that either, I don't have any beanie babies to check.)
Kira-Kura - About the no character deaths. Yes well, ahem, YOU talk to my muses then. Marik Muse loves death and torment and he kinda took over for a little while. Also, promise not to tell, but I feel dirty writing something else besides Malik/Ryou. Well, as it's involving Malik anyway. My Pegasus/Malik pairing was not my choice, so I don't feel so bad writing it. Vsakura - well, so far it's Duke/Malik, but it had been that way since before the time the first chapter was written. (Does that make sense any? Didn't think so.) It's supposed to be turning into a Malik/Bakura but my muses aren't cooperating.
Shanii - Tea not in the fic? Re-read chapter one really carefully. And I like Tea, really I do, she and Tristan are just the easiest to use when I need a mean character. (Sorry guys, I do like Tea even though she's kinda dizzy, ya know?) Chibi For A Day's a humour story, I think I've bashed everybody in that one. So I answer with # 4: She's in the fic!
To anyone who's confused about Bakura dying:
No. He's not. *sad* I'll have to torture him in another fic.