Sorry for the lateness (again.) I was in a car accident and I haven't felt
much like writing and I'm still moving and people keep taking me out for my
birthday. Gah! No time to myself anymore *pouts* And I've been reading
crap on the net (Yu Gi Oh crap) and I'm getting depressed by all the Ryou
torture fics. It's getting pathetic, especially on Mediaminer. I mean,
Ryou's a whore, his father wants to 'convert' him back to being straight by
having his friends rape him? Um, yes, that's going to make Ryou like
girls. Ah, no! And how many more times is the poor boy going to be
beaten? His father and Bakura always do it and it's getting so &^#%ing
annoying. BLAH!
WARNING: CHRISTMAS IS FINALLY HERE!
Comments to reviews at the end of chapter.
- - -
Tis The Season
Warnings: Christmas angst. AU. No character death. Damn it.
Pairings: You'll just have to wait and see.
/ thoughts /
*italics*
- - -
Chapter Thirteen
Large chocolate brown eyes stared out the frosted window at the front walk outside the hospital, way down below on the first floor. Unable to sit still, the small body belonging to the eyes fidgeted constantly, much to the amusement of the room's second occupant.
"Ryou," Bakura winced slightly as he whispered, but he'd been loud enough to get the excited boy's attention. The small child bounced over to the bed and crawled into Bakura's lap. It was easier now that the respirator was gone and (thankfully) the heart monitor. Bakura had been warned not to talk, but he'd never been inclined to actually listen. He knew he'd regret it later, but he just couldn't help talking to Ryou.
"But Batuwa!" Ryou whined impatiently, "Whewe is he?" The boy pouted cutely as he looked up at his brother with large eyes.
Chuckling, which also hurt, Bakura only smoothed back the boy's unruly bangs. "You really like Malik, don't you?" He whispered, unable to make his voice go any higher. He'd vowed never to be put on a respirator again.
All day Ryou had been waiting impatiently for the Egyptian to arrive. Malik had promised to come, and though Bakura didn't think he'd back out, he still had his doubts as small as they were. It was only natural after a life of disappointment.
"Yeah!" Ryou answered him with a grin, "He's nice and he makes me feew safe wike you do Kuwa." He cuddled into his brother's warmth. He gasped suddenly, "He wives in a big house!" He extended his arms over his head, "This big! And evewyt'ing in his woom is puwple." He wrinkled his nose.
Bakura chuckled again, despite the sting it left in his throat. "You mean lavender."
Ryou blinked, "No. Puwple." He declared.
Bakura rolled his eyes, "Okay, purple." He knew better than to argue with the small child, and he had never seen Ryou so animated before. There had always been a depressed air around his brother, now it was gone.
"Wishid is nice too." Ryou spoke of Malik's 'guardian'. "He's big, but weawwy nice!" He seemed to calm down slightly, "Batuwa, awe you an' Mawik fwiends now?" He wondered softly, wanting his brother to enjoy Christmas too.
"I suppose." Bakura shrugged absently. He was pretty sure that Malik had gotten attached to Ryou; it usually went that way with adults before the small boy would push whoever was getting close to him away in favour of his brother. Ryou was too loyal, or dependant, Bakura wasn't sure which.
Ryou squealed in sudden excitement and for a moment Bakura had thought that Malik had finally arrived. The teen had yet to show however, but Ryou still seemed excited, "You should see Anoobees." The little boy giggled.
Of course Bakura had heard all of this before and he'd quickly learned that Malik had a dog named Anubis. Ryou had a problem pronouncing the name but Bakura was in tune with his brother so he easily understood. If Ryou wasn't talking about Malik, he was talking about Anubis and even Bakura had to admit that he was curious about what kind of a dog it was. Apparently dark brown colour, big but still a puppy. Ryou had always wanted a dog, but because they lived in the orphanage, they could never have one.
Sighing to himself, Bakura leaned back against the stiff pillow he'd been using since he'd been there. Once they were out on their own and Bakura could afford it, he'd make sure to get Ryou a dog.
Suddenly Ryou gasped again and Bakura's gaze automatically looked toward the door. Malik stood with a large man and they both appeared hesitant to enter. Bakura wanted to welcome them but he'd never be able to get his voice that loud. Ryou, however, did the welcoming for him.
"Mawik!" He squealed excitedly as he struggled to get off the bed. Once on the floor the small boy raced toward the Egyptian. Malik knelt down just in time to catch him.
Feeling Ryou against him, Malik smiled as he wrapped his arms around the boy and lifted him up. "Merry Christmas kiddo." He grinned at Ryou.
"Mewwy Chwistmas." Ryou said, suddenly shy again as he rested his head on Malik's shoulder.
As Malik and Ryou quietly spoke to each other, Bakura watched, stunned by his brother's reaction. Had Ryou ever acted *that* excited over someone before? Had he ever acted that excited over *him* before? No, Bakura couldn't remember a time when Ryou had ever greeted him with quite that much enthusiasm, but the white-haired teen didn't mind. They had never really been a part for long except for school and weekend jobs. Ryou always knew that Bakura would come back. Malik had been an uncertainty.
/He's attached./ Bakura inwardly smirked as he watched and listened to Ryou giggle at something Malik had said. As he watched he felt grateful that someone could make Ryou so happy. /Guess I'm attached too./ He realized he wanted this strange person around, only if to make the one that mattered happy.
/I'm attached and so far gone even Ra could not resurrect me./ Malik realized as he listened to Ryou speak. The boy he held was like a light and Malik had been living his entire life in the dark. Ryou wasn't the only one either; Bakura was always on Malik's mind, whether the focus of a thought or merely a whisper in the back of his head. The two were connected by something that only the two of them understood and that connection allowed them glimpses at all the truths they had tried their whole lives to cover up. /I'm attached to both of them./ A warm feeling spread in Malik's heart and it caused his smile to brighten.
Once Ryou was finished speaking, telling him a story about one of the nurses, Malik carried him over to the bed so they weren't leaving Bakura out. The ill teen nodded in greeting as Malik stood by his side.
"Feel a little better?" Malik wondered as he noticed the lack of machines around the bed.
Bakura held up his hand, keeping his thumb and index finger about an inch apart, signifying 'a little'.
"No mowe beeping." Ryou explained softly, causing both Malik and Bakura to smile.
"Oh!" Malik suddenly remembered the other man who'd entered with him. The Egyptian set Ryou down on the bed and went to help the large man who was struggling with a bunch of bags. He took a few of the bags before the two came back toward the bed. "This is Rishid Mujiir. He's my guardian." The Egyptian explained. "Rishid, this is Ryou's older brother Bakura."
Rishid, who now had a free hand, held it out to Bakura. "It is a pleasure to meet you." He said as they shook. "Thank you for keeping Malik out of my hair for a while, as you can see, I've practically lost all of it thanks to him." Rishid shot a teasing glare at the pouting boy beside him.
Bakura grinned at that. He liked Rishid already.
"That's not funny you know." Malik declared as he pulled up an extra chair that had sat unused in the corner of the room. Placing the bags on the floor, Malik flopped down. He immediately had a lap full of Ryou again. Laughing softly, he hugged the boy and sat up in the chair so neither of them would fall out.
"What awe in the bags?" Ryou asked innocently as he stared down from Malik's arms.
"Ryou." Bakura scolded in a whisper.
"Sowwy." Ryou covered his mouth with his hands, worried he was in trouble.
Malik smiled as he ruffled Ryou's hair, "It's okay. They're Christmas presents." He explained and saw that Bakura was about to protest. "They're mostly from Linda." He stated quickly, "She called me last night and asked me to come pick them up for her since she'll be busy with everyone else today. Did you want to open them now?"
Ryou glanced at Bakura for permission. The white-haired teen nodded, not about to ruin the little boy's Christmas. Malik smiled at this and pulled one of the bags up. From the plastic the Egyptian pulled a somewhat large box about a foot long and three inches wide. "You have to open this one first." He explained, handing the child the package.
Carefully, as if he were holding an infant, Ryou held the box and gently pealed off the shimmering gold paper. The box was plain and Ryou couldn't tell what was in it.
"Open it here." Malik helped the boy open the somewhat difficult top and the boy was able to look inside. What he saw confused him.
"Bwanches?" He questioned, reaching in to pull one out. Attached to the one branch was an entire tree, miniature in size.
"Linda wanted you guys to have a tree to decorate this year. This was the best she could find without having the nursing staff haul in a real one." Malik explained, mostly to Bakura. "You should open this next, it kinda goes with the tree." He said as he pulled another box from the bag. Ryou tore into this one, the Frosty the Snowman wrapping paper falling soundlessly to the floor.
"Decowations!" Ryou explained as he held the box of Christmas decorations up. They weren't just any decorations either. They were one of the many themed packages that seemed to be popular that year. Malik had specifically picked this theme out, knowing how much Ryou would love it. Seeing the decorations for what they were for the first time, Ryou gasped in delight and jumped off the chair and onto the bed so he could show his brother. "Wook Kuwa! Puppies!" He declared as he practically shoved the box in Bakura's face.
As the older teen looked at the box of ten decorations he noticed that each decoration was a different kind of dog doing something different than all the rest. After quickly scanning all of them, he was drawn to the one in the bottom left hand corner. The puppies were two Dalmatians, one obviously older than the other. The older one had on a red and white Santa hat and had a matching stocking in his mouth. Within the stocking sat the younger puppy and Bakura couldn't hide a smile as he looked at the two.
"This is what you spent yesterday doing?" Bakura whispered as he turned to look at Malik.
The Egyptian shrugged, "Beat sitting at home."
Rishid cut in, "These are also for you." He said as he hoisted a bag up and placed it on the bed. As the two brothers dug into their gifts, the older man noticed the satisfied grin on his charge's face. He had never seen Malik so content before, especially around strangers.
/You have let them see you for the real you./ He noted proudly, knowing how hard it was for Malik to just be himself. /It pleases me to know you will be all right./ "There is a letter from a Mrs. Maxwell. She wanted you to read it first." He explained and Bakura found the letter mixed in with the boxes. "And while you read that, Malik and I will assist Ryou with decorating the tree." Rishid smiled as Ryou cheered happily.
With the giggling and talking pushing to the back of his mind, Bakura opened the envelope and began to read the letter.
'Bakura,
First of all, don't you dare do anything to make Malik feel unwelcome! That boy is a keeper! I've never seen anyone change in such a short time, though I suspect that the boy we're seeing now is who he really is. You know how unhappy it would make Ryou if Malik were to leave? I have a feeling you'd be unhappy too.
Bakura, I wish you could have seen the way he looked after Ryou. He refused to leave the hospital because he didn't want Ryou to be left alone without anybody to really pay attention to him. And I know you can see how attached Ryou has grown to him, it will break Ryou's heart if Malik doesn't decide to stick around.
Now, about the presents. Don't you listen to anything that little liar has told you! I called him tonight to pick up a few presents for you guys because the orphanage has been swamped. I gave him two hundred dollars to spend. I wasn't able to speak with him after he dropped everything off, but the little bugger didn't spend a cent of the money I'd given him! I think he enjoyed shopping for you guys.
There is one present that you won't receive, at least until you're out of the hospital. Malik and I have spoken and although he picked this present I concocted the entire idea, so don't be upset with him when you find out what this present is! I hope that you'll be willing to take Ryou to Malik's place, because that's where the present is being kept. But I'm not going to say anymore on this, I'll probably just give it away.
I was just thinking back on your first Christmas with us. I've seen a lot of frightened children, but I've never seen one quite so afraid as you were. I instantly fell in love with you and Ryou. I have watched you grow up – both of you and I have been able to see all the wonderful things you have done and will do. I was worried when you boys first arrived. You were so distant and Ryou was so lonely, I wasn't sure what your future would hold. You did what you had to sweetheart, you took Ryou under your wing and you helped him and taught him and I can't describe how proud I am of you!
Ryou adores you, you know this of course, but I just wanted to say it. You're his entire world and I hope that that bond between the two of you remains for the rest of your lives. You two have been through so much together and it has made you the wonderful people you are today. Ryou is still young though, and still needs your guidance. As far as I'm concerned Bakura, you should be proud of yourself. Not many teenage parents have been able to cope like you have. You have raised that little boy, and you will continue to do a wonderful job.
Whenever I look at Malik, I see a little bit of you. Maybe that's why I have grown so attached in such a short period of time, and perhaps that's why Ryou likes him so much. And don't you start thinking that Malik's only doing this for Ryou either. We talked for a little while tonight and some of the things Malik told me broke my heart. I hope that he can confide in you and you in him, you boys are so much a like I can tell you'll be good for one another. He wants to earn your respect, Bakura. How many people care about respect anymore?
Both of you just seem so lonely and I wish I could take all that pain away, for you, Ryou and Malik. I know I can't though, but maybe together you guys can help each other.
Have a Merry Christmas sweetheart, love you.
Linda'
Bakura sighed and folded the letter, then looked at the other three. The small tree had been set up on the plain nightstand that housed a few of Bakura's things. The shrub had been nicely decorated and Bakura couldn't help but smile at the childlike innocence shining from Malik's face. It was almost infectious. And his heart flooded with love at the sound of Ryou's laughter.
When all the decorations were finished and Ryou was comfortably sitting in Bakura's lap, Malik sat at the end of the bed and Rishid in the closest chair. The presents were set in the middle of the bed but both Bakura and Ryou looked unsure.
"Well?" Malik grinned, seeing the hesitation and wanting to do something about it. "They're all for you." He reminded, "Dig in!"
With that said, Ryou glanced up at Bakura and grinned. Bakura answered the grin and picked a present from the pile and read the nametag, handing it to Ryou. The older teen watched as Ryou opened the soft looking package that had been wrapped in dark blue paper with printed holly leaves spotting it. /Malik even went out and bought paper?/ He thought to himself as he remembered that the Egyptian had never celebrated Christmas before.
Giggling as he pulled the present out, Ryou held it up for Bakura to see, "A puppy!" He announced, squeezing it to his chest. The puppy, which happened to be a Dalmatian, squeaked, causing Ryou to burst into a fit of more giggles. Bakura couldn't help but smile at the boy., he hadn't really smiled this much in a long time.
Noticing the collar around the pup's neck, Bakura read the name, "His name's Sora." The teen whispered to Ryou.
"Sowa?" Ryou questioned as he looked at the puppy in his arms. He suddenly grinned and nodded, "I wike it." He declared, cuddling the toy to his chest so it wouldn't squeak. Then he looked over at Malik and then at Rishid, "Tank you." He said shyly.
Malik beamed inside, but only smiled outside, "You're welcome." He smiled, then picked out another present. "This one is for you Bakura." He said softly, hoping that Bakura wouldn't reject this one *again*. It had been his icebreaker present when he'd first met the two, but Bakura hadn't agreed with presents so Malik had never gotten the chance to give it to him. So, this would probably be the last chance he got.
Slowly, Bakura took the gift and Malik let out the breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. Bakura took his time opening the gift, and everyone, even Ryou, sat in silence watching him. Once the dark red and green paper had been taken off, Bakura opened the plain flat box. He looked down at the object in confusion, not knowing what it meant.
He glanced up at Malik for an explanation, but found that the Egyptian wasn't looking at him. Was he worried about rejection? Since he wasn't going to get his explanation there, he looked to Rishid.
The older man smiled, seeing the dilemma. "There is a note." He explained.
Bakura moved the object and found an envelope. He opened it silently and began to read.
'The five points represent a part of a person: Mind, Body, Heart, Spirit and Soul.
The three points of the pyramid represent "Birth", "Life" and "Death".
The connected ring represents a never-ending cycle.
The Sennen Ring represents a persons cycle from their birth, through their life, until their death when they are reborn into a new life and the cycle continues. Some aspects also continue with this circle. Things like love and friendship also continue on into the next life. True love never dies and true friendship lasts forever.'
Bakura blinked as he read over the neatly written words. He looked up at the Egyptian, seeing that Malik still refused to look at him. Knowing why now, Bakura smiled to himself.
"Thanks." He whispered.
- - -
So, Malik gave Bakura the Millennium Ring. What? Don't look at me like that. I can't be original! *sniffles*
I do have a squeaky stuffed Dalmatian that I named Sora. It was done on purse because he's been such a comfort to me.
Everyone catch what the Dalmatian ornament representation?
I love Dalmatians, I couldn't help it. ^_^
COMMENTS:
Kyrene (once Blood Roses – As much as I have grown to love Duke/Mai (thanks to this story of course), Bakura/Mai is a BIG no no. And hush about your idea, I'm not giving away the ending. ^_^ And I'm glad you like Amane, I hoped everyone would. (Even Yami *L*)
ShadowSpirits – Marik doesn't want me to get violent. (Doesn't mean I won't of course.)
Shori Musei – that's nice of you. I used to volunteer at our pet shelters and things (with where I live I like animals better than most of the people.).
Shanii – (review for chapter 12 because I don't think I answered it) I agree with you on the 'lovemaking' aspect of Bakura's sex life. And I despise those Bakura/Ryou pairings fics that he's so out of character it's actually embarrassing to read. But Mariku, he's a little different to me. Of course only with the right people, eh heh. I should probably also rephrase my words about Marik/Malik fics. I can't find many GOOD ones. I don't read lemons and if the story is a Marik/Malik, it's usually a lemon. Or both of them are insane and the story has no plot anyway. Gives a new meaning to PWP. But yes, I haven't read many well writing M/M pairings. The only Yami/Hikari pairing I don't like is Yami/Yugi (sorry people, but really, Yami isn't THAT nice. It's DISGUSTING sometimes.) (for the review on chapter 13) The way I picture Duke's Amane is the same way I picture Ryou's Amane (did that make any sense?). It's an AU so it's easier for me that way.
sugahigh - I can't say. Marik Muse won't let me. Even though he's tied up and gagged. *shrugs*
Kaira-chan – Do you read het fics too? Do you know if Duke/Mai is popular? Like I mean really popular. I don't like writing the popular pairings (as it is I'm probably going to have to change from Malik/Ryou pairings *sobs*) and I'm glad you liked it! How was your Friday the 13th? Something at work blew up and we couldn't open until about 2:00 PM. It was great! *L*
Yami Yami Yugi – Het means Heterosexual. Ugly straight relationships *shutters* I hate reading stuff like that. Don't worry, I won't use that idea. Malik was horrified when I presented it to him. In fact, he's still hiding in Marik's closet.
Kira-Kura – the Muses loved the chocolates. Me on the other hand did not. Suger high muses. Bah. But the thought was nice j/k. If I could draw I wanted to actually make a few pictures of them but as you know, I can't draw.
Liger – You can download it for free, but I did that and got a virus, twice. Luckily my virus detector destroyed the virus both times before it could infect my computer. Beware if you're downloading Kazaa. And I have a sucky-assed thing now, but it works...sometimes.
To Everyone:
I know it's not Christmas, but Merry Christmas! *L*
WARNING: CHRISTMAS IS FINALLY HERE!
Comments to reviews at the end of chapter.
- - -
Tis The Season
Warnings: Christmas angst. AU. No character death. Damn it.
Pairings: You'll just have to wait and see.
/ thoughts /
*italics*
- - -
Chapter Thirteen
Large chocolate brown eyes stared out the frosted window at the front walk outside the hospital, way down below on the first floor. Unable to sit still, the small body belonging to the eyes fidgeted constantly, much to the amusement of the room's second occupant.
"Ryou," Bakura winced slightly as he whispered, but he'd been loud enough to get the excited boy's attention. The small child bounced over to the bed and crawled into Bakura's lap. It was easier now that the respirator was gone and (thankfully) the heart monitor. Bakura had been warned not to talk, but he'd never been inclined to actually listen. He knew he'd regret it later, but he just couldn't help talking to Ryou.
"But Batuwa!" Ryou whined impatiently, "Whewe is he?" The boy pouted cutely as he looked up at his brother with large eyes.
Chuckling, which also hurt, Bakura only smoothed back the boy's unruly bangs. "You really like Malik, don't you?" He whispered, unable to make his voice go any higher. He'd vowed never to be put on a respirator again.
All day Ryou had been waiting impatiently for the Egyptian to arrive. Malik had promised to come, and though Bakura didn't think he'd back out, he still had his doubts as small as they were. It was only natural after a life of disappointment.
"Yeah!" Ryou answered him with a grin, "He's nice and he makes me feew safe wike you do Kuwa." He cuddled into his brother's warmth. He gasped suddenly, "He wives in a big house!" He extended his arms over his head, "This big! And evewyt'ing in his woom is puwple." He wrinkled his nose.
Bakura chuckled again, despite the sting it left in his throat. "You mean lavender."
Ryou blinked, "No. Puwple." He declared.
Bakura rolled his eyes, "Okay, purple." He knew better than to argue with the small child, and he had never seen Ryou so animated before. There had always been a depressed air around his brother, now it was gone.
"Wishid is nice too." Ryou spoke of Malik's 'guardian'. "He's big, but weawwy nice!" He seemed to calm down slightly, "Batuwa, awe you an' Mawik fwiends now?" He wondered softly, wanting his brother to enjoy Christmas too.
"I suppose." Bakura shrugged absently. He was pretty sure that Malik had gotten attached to Ryou; it usually went that way with adults before the small boy would push whoever was getting close to him away in favour of his brother. Ryou was too loyal, or dependant, Bakura wasn't sure which.
Ryou squealed in sudden excitement and for a moment Bakura had thought that Malik had finally arrived. The teen had yet to show however, but Ryou still seemed excited, "You should see Anoobees." The little boy giggled.
Of course Bakura had heard all of this before and he'd quickly learned that Malik had a dog named Anubis. Ryou had a problem pronouncing the name but Bakura was in tune with his brother so he easily understood. If Ryou wasn't talking about Malik, he was talking about Anubis and even Bakura had to admit that he was curious about what kind of a dog it was. Apparently dark brown colour, big but still a puppy. Ryou had always wanted a dog, but because they lived in the orphanage, they could never have one.
Sighing to himself, Bakura leaned back against the stiff pillow he'd been using since he'd been there. Once they were out on their own and Bakura could afford it, he'd make sure to get Ryou a dog.
Suddenly Ryou gasped again and Bakura's gaze automatically looked toward the door. Malik stood with a large man and they both appeared hesitant to enter. Bakura wanted to welcome them but he'd never be able to get his voice that loud. Ryou, however, did the welcoming for him.
"Mawik!" He squealed excitedly as he struggled to get off the bed. Once on the floor the small boy raced toward the Egyptian. Malik knelt down just in time to catch him.
Feeling Ryou against him, Malik smiled as he wrapped his arms around the boy and lifted him up. "Merry Christmas kiddo." He grinned at Ryou.
"Mewwy Chwistmas." Ryou said, suddenly shy again as he rested his head on Malik's shoulder.
As Malik and Ryou quietly spoke to each other, Bakura watched, stunned by his brother's reaction. Had Ryou ever acted *that* excited over someone before? Had he ever acted that excited over *him* before? No, Bakura couldn't remember a time when Ryou had ever greeted him with quite that much enthusiasm, but the white-haired teen didn't mind. They had never really been a part for long except for school and weekend jobs. Ryou always knew that Bakura would come back. Malik had been an uncertainty.
/He's attached./ Bakura inwardly smirked as he watched and listened to Ryou giggle at something Malik had said. As he watched he felt grateful that someone could make Ryou so happy. /Guess I'm attached too./ He realized he wanted this strange person around, only if to make the one that mattered happy.
/I'm attached and so far gone even Ra could not resurrect me./ Malik realized as he listened to Ryou speak. The boy he held was like a light and Malik had been living his entire life in the dark. Ryou wasn't the only one either; Bakura was always on Malik's mind, whether the focus of a thought or merely a whisper in the back of his head. The two were connected by something that only the two of them understood and that connection allowed them glimpses at all the truths they had tried their whole lives to cover up. /I'm attached to both of them./ A warm feeling spread in Malik's heart and it caused his smile to brighten.
Once Ryou was finished speaking, telling him a story about one of the nurses, Malik carried him over to the bed so they weren't leaving Bakura out. The ill teen nodded in greeting as Malik stood by his side.
"Feel a little better?" Malik wondered as he noticed the lack of machines around the bed.
Bakura held up his hand, keeping his thumb and index finger about an inch apart, signifying 'a little'.
"No mowe beeping." Ryou explained softly, causing both Malik and Bakura to smile.
"Oh!" Malik suddenly remembered the other man who'd entered with him. The Egyptian set Ryou down on the bed and went to help the large man who was struggling with a bunch of bags. He took a few of the bags before the two came back toward the bed. "This is Rishid Mujiir. He's my guardian." The Egyptian explained. "Rishid, this is Ryou's older brother Bakura."
Rishid, who now had a free hand, held it out to Bakura. "It is a pleasure to meet you." He said as they shook. "Thank you for keeping Malik out of my hair for a while, as you can see, I've practically lost all of it thanks to him." Rishid shot a teasing glare at the pouting boy beside him.
Bakura grinned at that. He liked Rishid already.
"That's not funny you know." Malik declared as he pulled up an extra chair that had sat unused in the corner of the room. Placing the bags on the floor, Malik flopped down. He immediately had a lap full of Ryou again. Laughing softly, he hugged the boy and sat up in the chair so neither of them would fall out.
"What awe in the bags?" Ryou asked innocently as he stared down from Malik's arms.
"Ryou." Bakura scolded in a whisper.
"Sowwy." Ryou covered his mouth with his hands, worried he was in trouble.
Malik smiled as he ruffled Ryou's hair, "It's okay. They're Christmas presents." He explained and saw that Bakura was about to protest. "They're mostly from Linda." He stated quickly, "She called me last night and asked me to come pick them up for her since she'll be busy with everyone else today. Did you want to open them now?"
Ryou glanced at Bakura for permission. The white-haired teen nodded, not about to ruin the little boy's Christmas. Malik smiled at this and pulled one of the bags up. From the plastic the Egyptian pulled a somewhat large box about a foot long and three inches wide. "You have to open this one first." He explained, handing the child the package.
Carefully, as if he were holding an infant, Ryou held the box and gently pealed off the shimmering gold paper. The box was plain and Ryou couldn't tell what was in it.
"Open it here." Malik helped the boy open the somewhat difficult top and the boy was able to look inside. What he saw confused him.
"Bwanches?" He questioned, reaching in to pull one out. Attached to the one branch was an entire tree, miniature in size.
"Linda wanted you guys to have a tree to decorate this year. This was the best she could find without having the nursing staff haul in a real one." Malik explained, mostly to Bakura. "You should open this next, it kinda goes with the tree." He said as he pulled another box from the bag. Ryou tore into this one, the Frosty the Snowman wrapping paper falling soundlessly to the floor.
"Decowations!" Ryou explained as he held the box of Christmas decorations up. They weren't just any decorations either. They were one of the many themed packages that seemed to be popular that year. Malik had specifically picked this theme out, knowing how much Ryou would love it. Seeing the decorations for what they were for the first time, Ryou gasped in delight and jumped off the chair and onto the bed so he could show his brother. "Wook Kuwa! Puppies!" He declared as he practically shoved the box in Bakura's face.
As the older teen looked at the box of ten decorations he noticed that each decoration was a different kind of dog doing something different than all the rest. After quickly scanning all of them, he was drawn to the one in the bottom left hand corner. The puppies were two Dalmatians, one obviously older than the other. The older one had on a red and white Santa hat and had a matching stocking in his mouth. Within the stocking sat the younger puppy and Bakura couldn't hide a smile as he looked at the two.
"This is what you spent yesterday doing?" Bakura whispered as he turned to look at Malik.
The Egyptian shrugged, "Beat sitting at home."
Rishid cut in, "These are also for you." He said as he hoisted a bag up and placed it on the bed. As the two brothers dug into their gifts, the older man noticed the satisfied grin on his charge's face. He had never seen Malik so content before, especially around strangers.
/You have let them see you for the real you./ He noted proudly, knowing how hard it was for Malik to just be himself. /It pleases me to know you will be all right./ "There is a letter from a Mrs. Maxwell. She wanted you to read it first." He explained and Bakura found the letter mixed in with the boxes. "And while you read that, Malik and I will assist Ryou with decorating the tree." Rishid smiled as Ryou cheered happily.
With the giggling and talking pushing to the back of his mind, Bakura opened the envelope and began to read the letter.
'Bakura,
First of all, don't you dare do anything to make Malik feel unwelcome! That boy is a keeper! I've never seen anyone change in such a short time, though I suspect that the boy we're seeing now is who he really is. You know how unhappy it would make Ryou if Malik were to leave? I have a feeling you'd be unhappy too.
Bakura, I wish you could have seen the way he looked after Ryou. He refused to leave the hospital because he didn't want Ryou to be left alone without anybody to really pay attention to him. And I know you can see how attached Ryou has grown to him, it will break Ryou's heart if Malik doesn't decide to stick around.
Now, about the presents. Don't you listen to anything that little liar has told you! I called him tonight to pick up a few presents for you guys because the orphanage has been swamped. I gave him two hundred dollars to spend. I wasn't able to speak with him after he dropped everything off, but the little bugger didn't spend a cent of the money I'd given him! I think he enjoyed shopping for you guys.
There is one present that you won't receive, at least until you're out of the hospital. Malik and I have spoken and although he picked this present I concocted the entire idea, so don't be upset with him when you find out what this present is! I hope that you'll be willing to take Ryou to Malik's place, because that's where the present is being kept. But I'm not going to say anymore on this, I'll probably just give it away.
I was just thinking back on your first Christmas with us. I've seen a lot of frightened children, but I've never seen one quite so afraid as you were. I instantly fell in love with you and Ryou. I have watched you grow up – both of you and I have been able to see all the wonderful things you have done and will do. I was worried when you boys first arrived. You were so distant and Ryou was so lonely, I wasn't sure what your future would hold. You did what you had to sweetheart, you took Ryou under your wing and you helped him and taught him and I can't describe how proud I am of you!
Ryou adores you, you know this of course, but I just wanted to say it. You're his entire world and I hope that that bond between the two of you remains for the rest of your lives. You two have been through so much together and it has made you the wonderful people you are today. Ryou is still young though, and still needs your guidance. As far as I'm concerned Bakura, you should be proud of yourself. Not many teenage parents have been able to cope like you have. You have raised that little boy, and you will continue to do a wonderful job.
Whenever I look at Malik, I see a little bit of you. Maybe that's why I have grown so attached in such a short period of time, and perhaps that's why Ryou likes him so much. And don't you start thinking that Malik's only doing this for Ryou either. We talked for a little while tonight and some of the things Malik told me broke my heart. I hope that he can confide in you and you in him, you boys are so much a like I can tell you'll be good for one another. He wants to earn your respect, Bakura. How many people care about respect anymore?
Both of you just seem so lonely and I wish I could take all that pain away, for you, Ryou and Malik. I know I can't though, but maybe together you guys can help each other.
Have a Merry Christmas sweetheart, love you.
Linda'
Bakura sighed and folded the letter, then looked at the other three. The small tree had been set up on the plain nightstand that housed a few of Bakura's things. The shrub had been nicely decorated and Bakura couldn't help but smile at the childlike innocence shining from Malik's face. It was almost infectious. And his heart flooded with love at the sound of Ryou's laughter.
When all the decorations were finished and Ryou was comfortably sitting in Bakura's lap, Malik sat at the end of the bed and Rishid in the closest chair. The presents were set in the middle of the bed but both Bakura and Ryou looked unsure.
"Well?" Malik grinned, seeing the hesitation and wanting to do something about it. "They're all for you." He reminded, "Dig in!"
With that said, Ryou glanced up at Bakura and grinned. Bakura answered the grin and picked a present from the pile and read the nametag, handing it to Ryou. The older teen watched as Ryou opened the soft looking package that had been wrapped in dark blue paper with printed holly leaves spotting it. /Malik even went out and bought paper?/ He thought to himself as he remembered that the Egyptian had never celebrated Christmas before.
Giggling as he pulled the present out, Ryou held it up for Bakura to see, "A puppy!" He announced, squeezing it to his chest. The puppy, which happened to be a Dalmatian, squeaked, causing Ryou to burst into a fit of more giggles. Bakura couldn't help but smile at the boy., he hadn't really smiled this much in a long time.
Noticing the collar around the pup's neck, Bakura read the name, "His name's Sora." The teen whispered to Ryou.
"Sowa?" Ryou questioned as he looked at the puppy in his arms. He suddenly grinned and nodded, "I wike it." He declared, cuddling the toy to his chest so it wouldn't squeak. Then he looked over at Malik and then at Rishid, "Tank you." He said shyly.
Malik beamed inside, but only smiled outside, "You're welcome." He smiled, then picked out another present. "This one is for you Bakura." He said softly, hoping that Bakura wouldn't reject this one *again*. It had been his icebreaker present when he'd first met the two, but Bakura hadn't agreed with presents so Malik had never gotten the chance to give it to him. So, this would probably be the last chance he got.
Slowly, Bakura took the gift and Malik let out the breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. Bakura took his time opening the gift, and everyone, even Ryou, sat in silence watching him. Once the dark red and green paper had been taken off, Bakura opened the plain flat box. He looked down at the object in confusion, not knowing what it meant.
He glanced up at Malik for an explanation, but found that the Egyptian wasn't looking at him. Was he worried about rejection? Since he wasn't going to get his explanation there, he looked to Rishid.
The older man smiled, seeing the dilemma. "There is a note." He explained.
Bakura moved the object and found an envelope. He opened it silently and began to read.
'The five points represent a part of a person: Mind, Body, Heart, Spirit and Soul.
The three points of the pyramid represent "Birth", "Life" and "Death".
The connected ring represents a never-ending cycle.
The Sennen Ring represents a persons cycle from their birth, through their life, until their death when they are reborn into a new life and the cycle continues. Some aspects also continue with this circle. Things like love and friendship also continue on into the next life. True love never dies and true friendship lasts forever.'
Bakura blinked as he read over the neatly written words. He looked up at the Egyptian, seeing that Malik still refused to look at him. Knowing why now, Bakura smiled to himself.
"Thanks." He whispered.
- - -
So, Malik gave Bakura the Millennium Ring. What? Don't look at me like that. I can't be original! *sniffles*
I do have a squeaky stuffed Dalmatian that I named Sora. It was done on purse because he's been such a comfort to me.
Everyone catch what the Dalmatian ornament representation?
I love Dalmatians, I couldn't help it. ^_^
COMMENTS:
Kyrene (once Blood Roses – As much as I have grown to love Duke/Mai (thanks to this story of course), Bakura/Mai is a BIG no no. And hush about your idea, I'm not giving away the ending. ^_^ And I'm glad you like Amane, I hoped everyone would. (Even Yami *L*)
ShadowSpirits – Marik doesn't want me to get violent. (Doesn't mean I won't of course.)
Shori Musei – that's nice of you. I used to volunteer at our pet shelters and things (with where I live I like animals better than most of the people.).
Shanii – (review for chapter 12 because I don't think I answered it) I agree with you on the 'lovemaking' aspect of Bakura's sex life. And I despise those Bakura/Ryou pairings fics that he's so out of character it's actually embarrassing to read. But Mariku, he's a little different to me. Of course only with the right people, eh heh. I should probably also rephrase my words about Marik/Malik fics. I can't find many GOOD ones. I don't read lemons and if the story is a Marik/Malik, it's usually a lemon. Or both of them are insane and the story has no plot anyway. Gives a new meaning to PWP. But yes, I haven't read many well writing M/M pairings. The only Yami/Hikari pairing I don't like is Yami/Yugi (sorry people, but really, Yami isn't THAT nice. It's DISGUSTING sometimes.) (for the review on chapter 13) The way I picture Duke's Amane is the same way I picture Ryou's Amane (did that make any sense?). It's an AU so it's easier for me that way.
sugahigh - I can't say. Marik Muse won't let me. Even though he's tied up and gagged. *shrugs*
Kaira-chan – Do you read het fics too? Do you know if Duke/Mai is popular? Like I mean really popular. I don't like writing the popular pairings (as it is I'm probably going to have to change from Malik/Ryou pairings *sobs*) and I'm glad you liked it! How was your Friday the 13th? Something at work blew up and we couldn't open until about 2:00 PM. It was great! *L*
Yami Yami Yugi – Het means Heterosexual. Ugly straight relationships *shutters* I hate reading stuff like that. Don't worry, I won't use that idea. Malik was horrified when I presented it to him. In fact, he's still hiding in Marik's closet.
Kira-Kura – the Muses loved the chocolates. Me on the other hand did not. Suger high muses. Bah. But the thought was nice j/k. If I could draw I wanted to actually make a few pictures of them but as you know, I can't draw.
Liger – You can download it for free, but I did that and got a virus, twice. Luckily my virus detector destroyed the virus both times before it could infect my computer. Beware if you're downloading Kazaa. And I have a sucky-assed thing now, but it works...sometimes.
To Everyone:
I know it's not Christmas, but Merry Christmas! *L*