A/N: Last I checked I still didn't own Yugi-…too bad. Well, for me anyway…There is a lemon/lime warning for the first part (more like sprite) if you hate that-scroll to the first break and skip it. You know my style by now, I'm not crude and there is nothing nasty I swear…it's PG-13 for sure-no R in any way…promise…

Chapter 26

Shelter Before the Storm

"So, are you going to tell me what happened today?" Joey asked softly, as Mai entered his bedroom and closed the bedroom door. Basically locking out the world, leaving him and Mai in their own silence. Mai stood, staring out the window, mulling over the events of the day. She felt his presence behind her and shivered in response. Quickly he was within inches of her, stroking his hands up and down her arms, trying to rid her of the chill she seemed to have.

"You know I love you Joey, completely and unequivocally. There is nothing I would do to hurt you." She could hardly face him. Her fingers twined with his, on her arms,as a tear trickled down her cheek. "I can hardly wait for the day we take our vows and become husband and wife. Even though I don't think I deserve you." She shook her head, softly, and her hair cascaded down her back.

"What happened Mai? Did someone in there do something to you?" His voice took on a gruff note, his jaw clenched. If anyone so much as pulled a strand of hair he would kill them. "Tell me."

She turned into his arms and draped her arms around his shoulders, pulling herself tightly against him. His arms circled her waist as his nose buried itself in her neck. Her scent was so unique, a mixture of roses and honeysuckle. He felt her sigh deeply.

"You know all day long I just wanted to be right here-in your arms." She snuggled against him and he smiled. If anyone had told him she would eventually be his, he would have laughed in their face. Someone like her deserved so much more and yet she was here in his arms-soon to become his forever.

She felt him relax and smiled. She longed to tell him how she had risked her life, never mind her honor, for Serenity. She needed to tell him, but not tonight. Tonight she just wanted to be his.

"Is everyone asleep?" She asked in a hushed tone. His lips were softly brushing her neck, nibbling the sensitive skin beneath her ear. He whispered a soft yes, as he continued to scrape his teeth against her delicate skin, gently moving his lips lazily up to her ear.

"How can I make it all better? Just tell me sweetheart, and if it's in my power-it's yours." His warm breath against her ear caused her to moan softly, gently, and eagerly. She tugged his shirt up and over his head, not able to bear being separated from him. Her fingers dancing across his skin caused him to shudder. He had kept a silent prayer going all day for both of them, and now, here was his sweet reward. Softly she kissed his neck, then moved lower to his collarbone, softly nipping him.

"Love me Joey," she murmured. "And let me love you-that's all I want tonight. No discussions, or thoughts, just us." She pulled back slightly so she could look into his honey-brown eyes. Now she understood why Serenity was going out on a limb for Seto. If Serenity felt even remotely as much for Seto as she did for Joey…

Joey leaned down and scooped her up into his arms, carrying her over to the bed. She playfully kicked off her shoes and giggled. He smiled at her, "how is it you can twist me right around your finger?" He quirked an eyebrow at her.

"Because, Joseph, you love me." She snuggled into the pillows as he gently laid her down, "and you know that I love you as well." She smiled up at him and winked. There would be no twisting if they weren't both on the same page…

He smiled down at her, taking delight in the mere sight of her, lying beneath him. They knew they were entering uncharted territory. The idea surprised Mai, but didn't shock her. All day long she had wondered what it would be like to truly be with him, the man she loved. If She had died in that mansion, or one of the hunters had raped her…she just couldn't even go there. For reasons she couldn't put into words, the only man she had ever trusted was Joey. She longed for him-to touch her in the sweetest and gentlest ways.

There was a tender gleam in his eyes, before she realized what he was doing; his lips were ravishing her throat. She closed her eyes and clung to him, afraid to move and break the spell, she raked her fingers down his bare back as she whimpered with pleasure.

When he lifted his head she opened her eyes, looking into his soft brown ones. He was breathing heavily, and she was softly panting.

"I sound like I just ran ten miles," he cooed. "All up hill."

"Is that what I do to you, Joseph?" She asked, honestly.

"You have no idea what you do to me, Mai."

They held each other's gaze; two heartbeats began to sound alike.

"You can tell me to stop at any time Mai, you know that." He murmured. "You had said you wanted to wait."

"I love you, Joseph. I no longer see any need to wait." She knew this was a dangerous game that all of them were playing. A part of her was terrified of dying before knowing this man, who had saved her from herself. She needed him completely.

Slowly, his right hand trailed down the slender arch of her neck, tracing the neckline of her shirt. Her heart raced. Slowly, her buttons were undone. Gently he exposed her to his anxious eyes, she felt flush and embarrassed, but his warm smile assured her that she had no reason to be.

"Are you scared?" He whispered against her lips.

"Yes, I mean no…I mean…" His hand slid over her and began a gentle caress.

"Are you afraid?" She asked in a slow moan. His hands felt warm and wonderful, like they were made for touching her.

"Of loving you?" He softly caught her lips, "it feels too natural."

Slowly, but eagerly they undressed one another. Sharing intimate kisses and touches, a few giggles and more moans than either cared to allow or deny. In the end Joey stopped before crossing that final barrier-the final threshold that would make her completely his.

Mai knew if she said no he would back off. All of this would end as quickly as it had begun. The most amazing thing was that she realized nothing would change either way. She would be his wife in a matter of weeks; the proof lay in a little box, tucked away in her dresser. He would still love her, and she him. The only thing that would change would be the intimacy, the true knowledge of this man she had longed for-for so very long.

"Since the first day I met you in Duelist Kingdom I've wanted you. Even when you tried to cheat during our duel I longed to know if your hair felt as soft as it looked. I wrestled with myself constantly when it came to you. There was never a time when I wasn't feeling desire for you Mai. I just had to protect my own heart, I was terrified that maybe you wouldn't want me. We'll be married soon, if you need to wait-we will." He fought for every ounce of control.

Mai knew what it was costing him to hold back. He could have taken her by now, yet, he waited. Even now, he treated her with respect and honor.

Sweet helplessness swept through her. She lay back against his arm, closed her eyes softly and offered herself up to him.

Gently he covered her with his body. The ache could not be denied anymore for either. He whispered her name softly and lovingly against her ear as he slowly claimed her as his own. She gasped, and then arched, pressing against him. Her fingers sliding up and down the corded muscles of his back. If this was what paradise felt like, it was worth every ounce of pain needed to achieve it.

More new and wondrous sensations began to fill them. Mai could hardly contain herself; she matched his movements. Stroking his hair, taking in his warm, familiar scent until she felt her body rush. Tiny thrills sang along each nerve ending. His name left her lips time and again. Joey soon whispered her name huskily against her ear, as he found his way to join her-in paradise.

Their breathing began to calm, as he pulled her into a close embrace. They fell into an exhausted sleep, both dreaming of the other and of sheer bliss…

Serenity shyly followed Tristan into the living room. They had just finished lunch when Mai announced that she was going to use the bathroom. The creep wasted no time dragging her into another room, in an attempt to get them alone. Keeping her fingers interlaced behind her back prevented hand holding, but how long could she keep the distance.

For a few minutes she thought of resisting the slight invitation, the gentle wave of his hand-beckoning her towards the door of the room. She had to play this right. If played to coy he might catch on that she had no interest. Besides, Mai would find her quickly as soon as she returned to the dining room. They hadn't wandered too far, only a few doors down.

"Do you like my home?" Tristan asked as he approached a large picture window, overlooking the grounds. He smiled, a smile she couldn't see, as his back was turned towards her.

"It's quite lovely, actually. I'm just not used to this much excess. Joey and I live quite menially. I mean-I wouldn't know what to do with all the rooms and space. How does one choose what to fill a house like this with?" She shrugged.

He turned and looked her up and down-she looked exceptionally lovely today in a pretty light pink sundress. Crisp, clean, sweet and just so perfect. How did he end up so lucky? He held out a hand to her, trying to coax her out of her shyness. His angel was just so sweetly innocent, like a flower that was a mere bud, not even ready to attempt to bloom.

She blushed so dainty. "Tristan, you know I'm not that kind of girl." She looked down at her feet; clad in Keds…she would need them for a fast getaway from Seto's room when she saw him later. Joey and Yugi had made her promise to stay away, but Mai seemed sympathetic and they agreed to keep this a secret.

"Please, don't you trust me?" He asked.

"You did pull a fast one on me yesterday. I didn't appreciate being kissed like that so openly." I mean, it was the first time for me." She absently played with the hem of her dress as her toe nudged the carpet.

I nearly retched in your mouth…asshole…

"I promise I won't do it again until you're ready. I just wanted to prove to Max that you were in love with me and not Seto Kaiba." He seemed frustrated as he said it. Could he still have doubts? That wouldn't do at all; she had to think of something fast.

"I trust you Tristan." She slowly placed her hand in his. He tugged her towards the armchair before the window. He sat in it, and it seemed as if his intention was to pull her down into his lap.

"What are you?" She tried to ask, but he tugged her down before she had the chance to finish her thought. There was no way she was going in his lap. Mai warned her this morning, on their ride over, that Tristan wouldn't love the chase anymore once she was caught. She needed him to be VERY interested, conceding nothing, acting shy and hating Seto.

Swiftly, her mind spun, her knee came up to protect her from a fast fall into his lap. She knew she hit her target when his eyes grew large quickly. Her knee connected with a very delicate area of his anatomy.

He gasped.

She pulled back.

He released her quickly as his hands fell into his lap, gently trying to ease his suffering.

"Oh my God! Tristan I am so sorry! I thought I was going to lose my balance when you tugged, I didn't realize. I am so sorry!" She covered her lips, as if in shock, but honestly, it was to hide her growing smile.

Serves you right…

"Is there anything I can do to help? Maybe get you some aspirin?" She tried to seem concerned-she hoped it seemed genuine.

Mai returned to the dining room, to find Serenity and Tristan gone. Great-now what? She huffed and folded her arms across her chest. She would have to find them and quickly, Serenity couldn't hold him off and still seem interested for long.

With a harsh sigh she turned towards the door, and right into the chest of Max. Great-just perfect.

"What are you looking at?" She growled at him, trying to be intimidating.

"Well, I've always been told that there is no charge for looking," he leered at her. "However, how much would it cost to touch?" He reached out a hand to feel her skin and was quickly slapped away by her, even faster, shooting hand.

"Consider that a warning," she glared at him. "Attempt to touch me again and I will remove body parts that I deem unnecessary."

"I like my women feisty. That little red-haired bitch is too shy and mellow. I thought she was something else, but apparently she's just a sappy child. I like vixens, and I'd like to attempt to tame you." He tried to close the gap.

"If you come any closer I'll…I'll…" Mai tried.

"Scream?" He asked, with a voice dripping in sarcasm. "Go ahead. My men listen to me, not you." He took two more steps. What she wouldn't surrender he would simply take. That was nothing new to him. He was a rare hunter. The motto was to never say die. You got your card at any cost. He felt the same way about this woman-who had embedded herself into his brain. He had to have her in order to rid himself of her. Once she was lying broken beneath him, he was sure his obsession would fade.

"I'll kick your lame ass from here to kingdom come. Don't try me, you won't like my claws." She was beginning to feel a bit of panic, she only had her words and a few quick moves. If there were a struggle, she would lose for sure. After last night she knew there was only one man for her, and damn the fact that he wasn't here. How she longed to disappear into her memories and be right back there in that moment.

"Excuse me…err…um…Max." A rare hunter called in. "It's time for Tristan's lessons. Should I get him? He's in the living room."

Max grumbled something to Mai about unfinished business and made his way out of the room. Mai slumped into the closest chair, burying her face in her hands. She didn't notice the hunter shut the door.

"Are you alright?" A deep voice asked.

Mai's head shot up. "Mokuba?" She faintly whispered, as she looked at him in disbelief. He had pulled back his hood, revealing his gray-violet eyes and features that resembled his brother's, though softer-sweeter and more gentle. His raven hair was now cut short, but still a bit unruly.

"I'm fine, he's just such an jerk. I swear I will kick his ass at some point." She ran nervous fingers through her hair. "Do you know if Serenity is ok? I lost track of them when I had to leave to use the bathroom."

"She's fine, in fact she's better than fine. I do think Tristan will be singing a few notes higher from now on though. He may even lose some interest in her today."

"I'm glad you're alright Mokuba." Mai stood up and walked over to him, pulling his hood back up. "We have to keep you that way kid." She winked at him.

"You only told Roland, Yugi and Joey right? I told Serenity there are spies everywhere. So far I have close to twenty men in here. We'll be breaking Seto out soon. Serenity just has to figure out a way to get him into a room with a view." Mokuba kept his gaze level with Mai.

"I discussed ideas with her and I think we came up with something fool-proof. She just needs to see Seto one more time. Maybe you can help. Would it be possible for you to guard his door for a few to let her in?" She asked softly. They both heard the click of the dining room door. Serenity quickly closed it behind her. She smiled when she saw Mokuba.

"Tristan is off for his lesson. No better time than the present."

Seto was pacing the room like a caged animal. He would have clawed his way through the damn walls if he thought he could have made his way out. When the door slowly began to open, his first inclination was to just snap the man's neck and be done with it. Thankfully he hadn't. With the push of her hand red hair tumbled out from under the protective hood.

"Serenity!" He asked, in anger and elation. "I thought I told you to stay the hell away?" He was growling and fast approaching. Suddenly she felt his hands gripped onto her shoulders. He shook her softly. "This is insane! You should be nowhere near this damn place! What the hell were you thinking?" He was irate, his eyes nearly glowing red in anger.

"Seto I had to come back, I had to explain…"

"He touched you yesterday-damn it he kissed you! I could kill that bastard!"

There was no reasoning with him. "I had to make sure you knew it had nothing to do with me…that I love you. The only reason why I allowed it to happen was so that he suspected nothing! I have to get you out of here." She sounded desperate as tears streaked down her cheeks. "Do you have any idea how hard this is for me? To pretend to feel nothing for you when all my thoughts are clouded because I fear for you so much?"

"He touched you." Seto scowled as his fingers dug into her tender skin. He ceased when he saw her wince. His intention wasn't to hurt her, he…liked her too much to hurt her…yes, he liked her…a lot-a whole lot. In fact-a whole hell of a lot.

"You touched me first, and as far as I'm concerned-your touch is the only one that matters-my heart is yours." Serenity's eyes were imploring.

"Do you have a better plan?" He asked, in an attempt to calm down. He couldn't burn the image out of his head of the kiss.

"First things first Seto," she pulled him over to the bed and sat him down. She tugged off her robe.

She noticed the smirk on his lips. She frowned at him and then crawled behind him. She had to see the back of his head, where he had been hit yesterday. Her fingers gently parted his hair, looking for the wound she was sure would be there. She took in a sharp breath when she saw the jagged wound, blood still crusted around it.

"Did anyone even bother cleaning this?" She bit her bottom lip as she examined his scab.

"Oh yeah, they baby me here, can't you tell from my luxury accommodations?" There was the sarcastic Seto Kaiba she fell in love with. Gently she pulled out a small kit Mai and her had put together. "This may sting a bit," she whispered as she sprayed a small bottle of antiseptic on the wound. A cotton swab waited under it for any run off.

He rolled his eyes, unnoticed and fisted his hands.

"This isn't my cleaning solution of choice, it stings. The gentlest would be peroxide, but I don't think you would want a patch of light hair back here-it would bleach you." She dabbed at it a few times, cleaning off the crusted blood.

She recalled how she almost started crying when Mai told her about the blood. Joey, however, still didn't know about her feelings for Seto, so Mai had shot her a 'react gently' look. Roland asked, in depth about the incident, trying to ascertain the damage done to the young CEO. It was an almost fatherly concern, which touched Serenity deeply. His workers were loyal, at least some of them were. She explained to everyone what Mokuba had said about trusting no one. Roland was thrilled to know Mokuba was on the inside, albeit, a bit nervous as well.

"How bad is it?" He asked gruffly, trying to seem annoyed at her ministrations. He hated the stinging, but her fingers were deft and so gentle.

"You'll live," she kissed his neck impulsively. How she longed to turn back the hands of time to that morning in his summer home in the woods. She would have never left his side. They would still be there, together, safe, and protected. "I'm going to put some Neosporin on this, it should prevent an infection. Do you have anywhere in here where you could hide it from being seen? You should keep applying it."

Her warm breath against his ear was a bad thing, making him remember nights that they came so close…

"I don't have much more time Seto," she whispered with a sigh of deep regret.

"You should get out of this place and stay way," he warned her, but not as forcibly. He wanted her around; it provided him comfort-these few stolen moments. Her safety, though, was primary to him.

"I'm going to get you moved from this room today. You need a room with a window." She stood up, moving away from him. They missed one another's warmth immediately. "Just know, whatever you witness has no bearings on my love for you Seto." She looked at the floor, dejectedly, Mai's idea would work, but it would be ugly.

"Don't get hurt." Seto growled, he was beginning to realize he couldn't control her.

"I won't, just don't think badly of me. When I leave this room I'm acting, please realize that." Her amber eyes implored him. His blue eyes softened, she was afraid. She couldn't be afraid. Fear caused people to mess up, fear left room for mistakes. She had to be resolved.

"Just remember you can outsmart them Serenity, rare hunters are stupid creatures. Not even good enough to be considered human." He would give her what strength he had left. "Look what they did to you yesterday, against your will." His blue eyes gleamed in anger at the remembrance of the kiss Tristan stole, a kiss that belonged to him-alone. "Are you going to let them manipulate you? Or will you put them under your foot where scum like them belong?" He watched her body language. She was bristling at his words. It was working.

She looked up at him, more determined than ever to get him out.

She strode forward, suddenly stroking the nape of his neck and planted her lips against his. Dry-mouthed, Kaiba berated himself for not being prepared. But he made the most of the moment, meeting her lips with his, tasting the corner of her mouth and teasing her upper lips before she could pull away. Her mouth tasted warm and enticing. Her heart beat rapidly against his. He followed her mouth as she pulled away, turning her head. What had begun only as a way to strengthen her resolve-to prepare her, had suddenly become a longing-a stirring in his core. He wanted to devour that prim, bow-shaped mouth.

"I must go now, before I'm missed." She panted against his neck, as he had drawn her into his arms. His nose nuzzled into her hair, she had the scent of sunshine on her. The dress she wore was crisp under his fingers, though he liked his hands on her bare flesh much better-soft and silky was better than crisp.

"I love you Seto, and we're closer to getting you out." She tilted her head up and looked at him, before turning her attention to the robe.

Slowly she pulled back on the robe. He watched her with regret, wanting to tell her not to leave him. If circumstances were different…but, sadly they weren't.

"Please avoid confrontation, be one step ahead." He warned.

She turned to look at him once more before she left his room. She tried to memorize every aspect of him. Once he was out, she would never leave his side again.

Slowly she made her way down the hall, unfortunately, a pair of eyes had spotted the very tiny rare hunter.

A/N: Hmmm…who caught her? I wonder…I will also keep you guessing…as always. Thank you all so very much for all the reviews! I can hardly believe this story is so popular! You guys are the best and totally keep me going! Glad you all enjoy it so much…please review and let me know how I'm doing-input, input, input! LOL!