Title: Strawberries and Black Pepper
Author: Broken Music Box
Rating: PG
Summery: Ryou's thoughts as he is neglected by everyone.
A/N: Okay, I know this one is a little weird. Any reviews welcome.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

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Alone. So very, very alone, and Yugi is sitting right next to you. Ignore Bakura's loose arm around your waist as you sit uncomfortably on the couch. Feel like yelling and screaming and ranting and raving and killing and dying. But don't. Don't move, don't speak, don't lash out. Smile and smile and smile and smile. Watch as Yami lazily uncurls and pulls Yugi into a hug. Glance away quickly when Yami looks at you as if he wishes it were you he were hugging. Ever so slightly, shift backwards towards Bakura for protection and hate yourself for it. Don't forget to smile.

Stiffen as Bakura gently lifts you into his lap. Just smile and smile and smile, even though you want to hit him. Clench your hands so your nails bite into your palms as Bakura nuzzles your neck. Notice Yugi watching worriedly, trying to guess whether he should interfere if you get too distressed, and Yami simply observing, almost uninterestedly. Nearly scream from fear and sadness and frustration and uncertainness. Smile.

"Bakura?"

Force out the question in desperation. Flinch as Bakura freezes, and Yugi jumps, and Yami sits up alertly. Don't forget to smile.

"Yes, hikari?"

Try to ignore the pur-like lilt to Bakura's voice. Tense as suddenly pulls you back so you are pressed against him. Don't move, don't speak, don't breathe, only smile.

"Let me go. Please."

Breathe hesitantly as Bakura considers it quietly for a long moment. Watch Yugi and Yami study you intently. Look down, focusing on your knees and Bakura's arms.

"No."