Hi everyone!

Now, I know what you're all thinking… 'OMG, she posted two chapters in an entire summer/gasp/' Lol. Well, it's true. I thought all you awesome reviewers deserved another chapter so I worked really hard on getting this one done before school started up again and I have to put my life on hold for this thing that they call 'education'. X.x

XD Anyway, this chapter is dedicated to my beta-reader, Lora, who is my non-blood 'twin' and always inspires me while we're having conversations. She's always helped me write, sometimes without even knowing it, and I thought that earned her a dedication. So Lora, this one's for you. /smile/

Same disclaimers as usual. I don't own the song in this chapter, it belongs to Annie Lennox and I'm not making any money off it, so please don't sue. It was chosen more for the music than the lyrics, but I suppose as the rest of the story comes out they'll have some meaning. /grins evilly/ Ooooh, I've got plans for this one. Muahahahahaha… /cough/ I'm okay.

Also, WARNING! Language in this chapter... just a little bit, but it's there. Just so you all are forewarned. Okay?

Enjoy!

Chapter 3

Kurry awoke the next morning with a start. Groaning lightly, she dragged herself out of bed and took a hot shower. Having tossed and turned all night, she was not relishing having to go to work this morning, and silently cursed the ill luck that caused her nightmares the day before her observation skills were needed. Shivering slightly as images from the nightmare flashed unbidden across her mind, Kurry was suddenly quite awake and anxious to be among people. Dressing as fast as she could, Kurry grabbed her coat and bag and all but ran for the door.

Once on the street, she felt somewhat calmer, and walked the three blocks to the station. Once inside, she went straight to her office and sat in the leather chair, taking deep breaths to calm herself. That's where Neil found her five minutes later when he wandered past, stopping abruptly when he caught sight of her.

'Kurry? Are you alright?'

Kurry raised her head. 'Ye-…no, no I'm not.' Seeing her shudder visibly, Neil immediately put his folder down and went to kneel next to her. 'What happened?'

Reluctant to admit her fear of such a silly thing as nightmares, Kurry refused to look at him and muttered, 'Just… nothing. I just don't feel well.'

Neil, however, was not a stupid man and could see how she was affected. 'Another nightmare, huh?' he asked softly, and was a little surprised to see tears spring to her eyes.

'Oh gods, Neil… I saw him again. I saw the whole thing again. I don't think I can take another one…'

'Shh, it's alright. It's going to be with you for a long time, Kurry. You know that. But there was nothing you could have done.' Glancing at the hall, Neil stood and pulled Kurry into a hug. 'Hey, if you ever need to talk, I'm here. You know that. And we have people on hand for this sort of thing. I can get you an appointment if you want.'

Kurry's trembling subsided at that, in a Herculean effort to regain control of herself. Pulling away, she took a deep breath and answered in a steady voice, 'Thank you, Neil, but… I just don't think I'm ready yet.'

Neil sighed inwardly. He and Kurry had been the only two officers present on that terrible day. They shared the memory of it, and neither had been able to voice their pain since. However, Neil knew that they had to let it out in the open, or risk torment for the rest of their lives. He also realized that Kurry was the worse off for it, since it was she who had lost the most…

Just then, Ryou came past and noticed them. 'Hey,' he said in his soft accent. 'Er… is everything okay?'

Kurry abruptly turned and went to the window. Neil nodded. 'She's fine,' he murmured close to Ryou's ear. The British officer seemed about to press the issue, but thought better of it, and turned to exit ahead of Neil. The latter turned back for a moment. 'Kurry…'

'I know Neil,' she said swiftly. 'Thank you.'

By the tone of her voice Neil knew that was the end of it… for now.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Kurry spent the morning taking care of paperwork in order to take her mind off her nightmare. Gradually she felt it slip away and breathed a sigh of relief. She also noticed that Neil found reasons to come by more often than usual; Marcus showed up a little later and even Ryou poked his head in every so often. Kurry was touched by their efforts to cheer her up and by the time lunchtime rolled around she was back in high spirits and excited about the evening.

At the lunch break Kurry went looking for the guys and found all three of them in the break room. 'Well, I'm off then,' she said cheerily, waving. Neil grinned, happy to see the true Kurry back. 'Where are you going?' Ryou asked, leaning on the counter with a cup in his hand.

'I'm going to the opening gala at the museum tonight,' Kurry told them. 'We're staking the place out in case of theft. I'll keep you all posted.'

'Okay. Have fun,' Neil winked at her and she laughed. 'Oh definitely. I might even get a dance in. See you all later.'

'Bye!' Marcus called after her. Once she left, all three guys looked at each other and grinned. 'Good to have her back, ne?'

After leaving the station, Kurry hopped a bus for the industrial area of town. She and Kitty had made plans to meet in the afternoon so the latter could help the former get ready for the gala. Since Kitty got off at two, Kurry had suggested that she come and help out in the lab for a couple hours. (Since the lab was an affiliate of KaibaCorp, there was no actual boss… they received their instruction every morning by telecom. No-one minded people coming in to visit; they said it helped to relieve the monotony.)

The bus took fifteen minutes to get to the industrial section and Kurry dismounted a block from Kitty's office. Smiling at the thought of her friend, she hurried her pace and reached the building within ten minutes. Rushing up the stairs, she waved at the receptionist before barrelling right into Kitty's office down the hall.

'Hi!'

Kitty looked up in mild amusement to see her best friend standing, with cheeks slightly flushed and out of breath, in front of her desk. 'Well, about time!' she teased. Kurry shot her a look and dropped her bag and coat in the empty seat.

'How are you, my friend?'

'Pretty darn good. We've got a couple new computers that need setting up. Want to help?'

'That's what I'm here for.' Kurry followed Kitty out to the main lab, where several workers were putting together new computers, programming them, or packaging them for shipping. Kitty led the way to 'her corner', where her team was working on a terminal.

'Hey guys, look who showed up!' Kitty said cheerily as they approached. Kurry waved at them, smiling.

'Hey! Good to see you!' A tall broad-shoulder young man stood up and wiped his hands off on a cloth before reaching out to shake Kurry's hand. 'Hello Inuyasha,' Kurry replied, grinning up at him. Inuyasha's golden eyes practically glowed with warmth. 'How've you been?'

'Hey now, Inuyasha, don't hog the attention.' They all turned as Kagome, Inuyasha's long-time girlfriend, sauntered over and gave Kurry a hug. 'Hey girl, glad you could come. Now we'll hear some new stories.'

Kurry beamed. 'Actually, I have a good one for you. We caught the drug kingpin.'

Collective gasps. 'Are you SERIOUS? You've gotta tell us!' Kagome breathed excitedly. 'Whoa, calm down koi,' Inuyasha chuckled. 'Let's get back to work and everyone can listen in.'

They settled themselves within hearing range of Kurry, who eagerly related the story of the night in the bar. The others had all been on tenterhooks for a week and Kagome actually let out a small scream when she heard how Neil had almost been shot. When she was finished, Inuyasha let out a low whistle. 'Wow. Neil's pretty lucky if you ask me. Way to go.'

Kurry sighed and sat back from the panel she was constructing. 'I know. The poor guy came to me after and we had a talk. It scared both of us. I'd hate to lose him.'

Kitty paused for a moment, then reached over to pat her friend's arm. 'It'll be okay. Neil's a smart guy, he'll be careful.'

'Oh, I know, it's just… sometimes things get out of control.'

There was a sombre silence for a moment, then Inuyasha shook himself and said, 'Anyone want a refill on coffee?'

Kurry laughed. 'You guys drink too much of that stuff.'

Kitty groaned and passed a hand over her eyes. 'I don't think I'd be able to make it through the day without coffee. Gods bless the guy who invented it.'

The others grinned and Inuyasha went off to refill the mugs while they continued putting the computer together.

The hours flew past and before anyone knew it, it was 2:30. Kitty glanced absently at her watch and gasped. 'Ohmigawd, look at the time. I didn't even notice! We'd better get going if you're going to be on time tonight, Kurry.'

The blonde girl looked up and sighed. 'Goodness, the afternoon went fast. That was fun though, the computer is almost finished.'

'Thanks for coming to help,' Kagome said, as they all walked with the girls to Kitty's office. 'No problem,' Kurry answered, pausing to hug her friend. 'We have to go out again sometime. Last time was awesome.'

Inuyasha grinned. 'I'll round up a couple of guys and we'll take you all dancing. Howzat?'

Kitty grinned mischievously and said, 'I may already have an idea for that, but you'll have to wait and see what happens. Anyway, I'll see you all tomorrow… do NOT stay too late again.' She glared a warning at the two of them and both laughed. 'Alright, we won't. Now get going!'

Calling farewells, Kitty and Kurry headed out to Kitty's car, and were soon on their way. The two friends chatted animatedly about random things for about half the drive, until a lull came in the conversation. For a moment a look of wariness crossed Kitty's face, then she said carefully, 'So, um, how have you been?'

'Hm?' Kurry twisted in her seat to look at her best friend. 'I've been fine. Why do you ask?'

'It was… something you said earlier. About things getting out of control. You went all quiet, like you do when you're… remembering.'

Kurry felt herself tense against the memory, then she sighed and leaned back in the seat. 'I had another nightmare last night,' she said quietly, and Kitty nearly missed a stop sign. 'What! Why didn't you tell me?'

'I didn't want to worry you.'

'Kurry, you know better. And you know you can come to me for anything. What happened? Was it as bad as last time?'

'A little. I relived everything, again. I was… pretty shook up. Once I got to work it was better though… being around people. You know?'

Kitty nodded seriously, no longer smiling. 'Hun, you know you can always call me. Even in the middle of the night. I'm a night owl anyway.'

Kurry laughed lightly at that. 'No you aren't, but I appreciate it anyway. Thank you.'

Kitty shrugged, but her smile had reappeared. 'Alright. Just as long as you know.'

They pulled up and hurried to Kurry's apartment. Suddenly excited, Kurry dumped her bag on the couch and ran to her closet. 'Gosh, I hope I have something nice enough to wear…'

Kitty followed, thinking. 'Well, what about that LBD you wore to the theatre that one time?'

Kurry shook her head. 'I thought it should be professional.'

'Oh, come on girl, you hardly ever go out! Don't worry about professional, your attitude will handle that. Go for something fun! Here…' She pulled out a lilac coloured dress. 'What about this?'

Kurry regarded it thoughtfully for a moment, then her face fell. 'Oh… the shoes I had to go with that, um, one of the heels broke.' She looked sheepish. Kitty rolled her eyes and hung up the dress again. As she did so, something toward the back of the closet caught her eye. Kitty gasped and pulled it out. 'Omigawd Kurry, I didn't even know you OWNED this! Wow!'

Kurry peered over her shoulder and then backed away in horror. 'Oh gods no, Kitty, I can't wear that!'

'Why NOT!' Kitty breathed. 'It'll be gorgeous! When on earth did you buy this and why wasn't I around?'

'But… but there's hardly anything to it! Where'll I put my gun?'

Kitty paused at that, but then she waved her hand dismissively and said, 'Hike your leg holster a little higher and you'll be fine. Gods, girl, this is beautiful! Look at the colour! It matches your eyes perfectly. Come on, get it on and let me see you in it!'

Knowing she was beaten when Kitty took that tone, Kurry grudgingly took the dress and went into the other room to change. When she came back out, Kitty was practically glowing with delight. 'Wow girl, you'll knock a few guys out with that on. Yow.'

Kurry blushed crimson, but went to the full length mirror and scrutinised her reflection. The bodice of the sheer aquamarine-coloured dress rose from her waist to the back of her neck, the front of it coming a little lower than she usually wore, the back of it almost nonexistent except for two thin gem chains that ran in a Y-shape to the center of her back, and a single chain to where the dress met her waist. The skirt hung to her knees on one side and flowed in a sideways cut to her ankle on the other side. With her figure the way it was, the dress actually made her look taller than her five-foot-eight. When Kurry turned from the mirror, Kitty was rooting through the rest of her closet. 'Try these,' she said, waving a pair of white dress sandals behind her. Kurry rolled her eyes fondly and took them.

After the closet Kitty went to her dresser and poked through her jewellery box for about ten minutes. Kurry was almost laughing by then; Kitty got very stubborn about helping Kurry get ready for big events, but the outfits she came up with were always stunning. By the time Kitty was finished, Kurry was completely outfitted with the dress, the sandals, a silver necklace and earrings, and a small beaded bag on a string that Kurry could put her wrist through. After making sure her gun wasn't visible and her hair was brushed straight, Kurry turned to Kitty and said, 'Okay, Chrono's going to be here within fifteen minutes. Please try to convince me to walk out the door in that time frame.'

Kitty burst out laughing and gently hugged her friend. 'Trust me, you look fantastic. Chrono'll have to threaten to arrest any guy who so much as looks at you.' Kurry blushed again. 'Oh, I hope not.'

They spent a few minutes trying to figure out what would be in the collection worth stealing, and cracked themselves up a few times with outrageous suggestions such as a golden toilet paper roll. (Yes, these are mature adults.) At 4:45 the buzzer went and Kurry took a deep breath.

'That's my cue. Thank you so much for your help and I'll call you tomorrow, okay?'

Kitty hugged her again and practically shoved her out the door. 'Get going! I'll lock up. Have fun.'

Thank the gods for Kitty, Kurry thought as she went down in the elevator. I don't know what I'd do without her. She's so awesome… and I'm glad I gave her a key too. Don't know how many times I've forgotten mine… So wrapped up was Kurry in her thoughts that she almost didn't see Chrono until she reached the bottom of the stairs on the street.

'Hey. Ready?' he asked as she stepped onto the sidewalk.

'Hm? Oh, of course. I'm sorry, just thinking. You look nice.' And the chief did indeed look very nice in his tuxedo.

'Bah. I can't stand this tie.' Chrono tugged at it half-heartedly, then gave up and opened the door for Kurry. 'You, however, look stunning.'

'Thanks.'

The taxi dropped them off a block from the museum, since quite a crowd was gathering. The opening of the exhibit was actually being held outside, so anybody could stand in front of the podium and listen. Chrono and Kurry wove their way into the throng and as close to the podium as they could get. They were right on time too, for just then the people quieted and Kurry got her first glimpse of the man who had started this entire thing.

The first thing she noticed about Seto Kaiba was that he was tall. Extremely tall. The man had to be at least 6''7. The second thing she noticed was that he bore a striking resemblance to his half-sister, her very own best friend, Kitty Tashimono. He had thick brown hair, striking ice-blue eyes, was rather lanky but still muscular and was dressed, like all the other men, in a tuxedo. Kurry thought he looked rather dashing as he stood at the podium and introduced his collection. He had a nice voice too. Kurry smiled at the tone of it; it was obvious he was very proud of his collection.

Letting her eyes wander, she noticed the curator and another man flanking Mr. Kaiba either side and slightly behind. The one on the right she knew by name and a somewhat curious name it was. Link Kokirin had been the curator of the Royal Museum for as long as Kurry had been on the force. They had met, in fact, the first year of Link's job as curator, when an art dealer had swindled him out of several million dollars worth of art. Link was a kind man with a gentle soul and a deep love of the artistic side of life. He and Kurry got on well, Kurry having written several poems at one point in her life and shared them with him after they became friends from working on the swindling case.

Kurry's gaze then travelled to the man opposite Link. Doing a double take, Kurry blinked a couple times and looked again. The man was a near-identical copy of Ryou Bakura! However, after a few minutes of studying him, Kurry began to see subtle differences in the two. While Ryou had a softness about him that conveyed gentleness and trust, this man was sharp and astute. His eyes were cunning and quick, glancing about in several directions at once. Kurry couldn't quite make out the colour from where she was, but she thought they looked brown. His hair was the same shocking white as Ryou's, but somehow tinted blue, perhaps because of the light. It was also much spikier than Ryou's, making the man look rakish and bold. Still, he was quite handsome, Kurry noticed with a start; tall and broad-shouldered, built a little leaner than Inuyasha, and his posture exuded complete confidence. Kurry lifted one eyebrow; he would be an interesting person to meet.

The speeches over, Link led Mr. Kaiba over to the long red ribbon that was being held in front of a crystal vase on a pedestal. Someone produced a large pair of gold scissors and Mr. Kaiba snipped the ribbon neatly in half. The crowd applauded, and those in evening wear began to move toward the museum. Chrono touched Kurry's elbow and they started toward the doors.

'Here's your invite,' Chrono said, handing Kurry a folded card. They showed their invitations to the doorman and passed into the main hall of the museum. From there they moved to the exhibition room in the left wing.

The place had been mostly cleared out to make room for tables and a dance floor. The stage at one end was framed with navy blue curtains and every table had a single flower and a candle on it. Chrono and Kurry admired the room, pointing out aspects of it to one another as other finely dressed people filtered into the place. Once everyone was present, Link took the lead and the tour began.

The group made one circuit around the exhibition hall and then passed into the two smaller showrooms behind it. Seto Kaiba's collection, as Kurry observed, consisted of several 18th century pieces, ancient works of weaponry and quite a bit of old Japanese and Egyptian art. There was even an aged set of armour that would have once belonged to a samurai, and a set of exquisite gold accessory items, the defining feature being that they all contained the eye of Horus, an Egyptian god. As they went around admiring the pieces, Kurry turned to Chrono and asked, 'When do we get to speak with security?'

'That's the last thing we'll be doing tonight,' Chrono answered. 'After everyone has gone, we'll have about half an hour in which to inspect the place. Just relax for now, it's taken care of.'

'Good.'

The viewing lasted about half an hour, and then people began moving back into the hall. Kurry and Chrono found a table and took a seat as Mr. Kaiba went up onto the stage. Once everyone was seated and the hall was quiet, he spoke.

'I'd like to thank you all for coming. It is very exciting for my colleague and I to come to a new city with my collection and I look forward to learning a lot about this city and its culture.' He went on to thank a few of his sponsors, and then dinner was announced.

'He seems like a very nice man,' Kurry said casually, indicating Kaiba. Chrono nodded. 'He's been around the world and then some, and his business flourished under his guidance. He was a child genius, and took over his company when he was eighteen. Since then there hasn't been a corporation in the world that doesn't know the name of Seto Kaiba. Oh, by the way, I got you the chicken.'

Kurry chuckled at that, and then their meal came.

The food was excellent. Kurry had missed lunch in her excitement and she finished her plate entirely. As they were eating, she discreetly studied their host some more. He looked… relieved, somewhat, and had relaxed. His white-haired friend said something and the entire table cracked up. Kurry also noticed a young girl about her age, wearing a pastel pink gown and sitting on Kaiba's left. As Kurry watched, the girl reached over and slipped her hand in Kaiba's. He's got a girlfriend. The man has time for a social life, she thought, smiling. They made a handsome couple.

Dinner finished, the tables were cleared and moved to the edges of the room, enlarging the dance floor. Chrono stood and motioned to Kurry. 'Socializing time,' he grinned, and they moved along the wall until they came upon the mayor and his wife. They chatted amiably for a few minutes, then kept moving, greeting people as they went. Chrono knew more people than Kurry did, so she simply responded cordially and then let Chrono do most of the talking. They'd been at it for about ten minutes when there was a sudden lull in the conversations. Chrono went off to get them both a drink and Kurry retreated to the edge of the room. But her solitude was short-lived.

'Kurry! I mean, Ms. Kurishi,' Link Kokirin came up, chuckling. 'Sorry, I forgot we're supposed to be formal.'

Kurry smiled. 'Oh come now, Link, formalities have no place among friends. How are you?'

'Pretty darn good. I was thrilled when Mr. Kaiba consented to have his collection shown here. This'll be great publicity for the museum. Have you met him yet?'

'Mr. Kaiba? I'm afraid I haven't had the chance.'

'Oh my gosh, you're kidding. Come with me.'

Suppressing a giggle at her friend's excitement, Kurry followed Link toward the CEO of KaibaCorp. They waited patiently until Kaiba was free, then Link stepped forward and tapped him on the shoulder. 'Excuse me, Mr. Kaiba? I'd like you to meet someone.'

He turned, and Kurry had her first good look at him. He really did have shockingly blue eyes. Perhaps it was the contrast to his hair. 'This is Kurry Kurishi. She's one of our finest police officers,' Link introduced.

Kaiba smiled warmly and held out his hand. 'Seto Kaiba. Pleased to meet you, Ms. Kurishi.'

'Likewise, Mr. Kaiba. I'm very impressed with your collection. You must have some amazing stories to go with it.'

Kaiba grinned boyishly at that. 'Yes, a few, I suppose. I've been around. Thank you very much; I'm very proud of it.'

Just then the girl Kurry had noticed before came forward. 'Seto, I… oh, I'm sorry, I don't mean to interrupt.'

'Not at all love. Ms. Kurishi, Mr. Kokirin, I'd like you to meet my fiancée, Serenity Wheeler.'

Serenity smiled and shook hands. 'Hello everyone. It's nice to meet you.'

'Congratulations to both of you,' Kurry said. Seto beamed. Serenity giggled with the excitement that comes from anticipation. 'Thank you very much. We haven't decided on a date yet, but there's no rush.'

'Of course. Did you have a place in mind?'

'We're probably going to go home for the wedding, back to Japan. There's a citadel near our hometown of Domino… it would make a lovely wedding set,' Seto explained.

'That's wonderful. All happiness to you.'

The couple were practically glowing. 'Thank you, again. Did you enjoy the dinner?'

Before Kurry had a chance to answer, however, Chrono appeared at her elbow. 'Here you are,' he chuckled. 'And you've met the host. I must be slow.' Extending a hand, he added, 'Chrono Dragonheart. I'm chief of police in the city.'

'Ah, just the man I wanted to meet,' Kaiba said. 'After a couple dances we'll go and have a look at security, if that's alright with you.'

'Sounds fine to me. Nice to meet everyone.'

Kaiba paused for a moment, then scanned the crowd, saying, 'There's someone else I'd like you all to meet… he's my partner and he helped me build the collection in the first place… ah, there he is. Bakura!'

They all turned as Kaiba's white-haired colleague strode up. 'Evening all. Enjoying yourselves, I hope?' He had a deep, smooth voice and at once Kurry sensed that this was a man who knew exactly where he stood in the world.

Kaiba smiled. 'Everyone, this is Bakura Ryou. He runs a couple of my affiliate companies and basically manages my life for me.'

Bakura chuckled. 'Actually, I attempt to manage his life for him, and he just does what he wants anyway. Pleased to meet you all. Call me Bakura.'

'This is Mr. Dragonheart and Ms. Kurishi of the police force,' Kaiba said. Bakura shook hands firmly with Chrono, both discreetly sizing each other up. 'I heard about your conflict with the terrorist a few years back. That was impressive handling,' Bakura said.

'Thank you.'

When he came to Kurry, she held out her hand and said, 'I hear you had a hand in forming the collection. It's a remarkable work of art unto itself.'

Bakura acknowledged the compliment with a slight smirk and a nod. 'Thank you, Ms. Kurishi. I am gratified that you found it satisfactory.' Taking her hand, he gently kissed the back of it and bowed. Kurry felt herself flush slightly at the gesture, but willed herself to stay cool and said, 'Your travels have impressed a code of conduct on you that befits a gentleman. Interesting.'

'So I've been told,' Bakura smirked again, and stepped back.

The music started then, and Serenity grinned. 'Oooh! Come dance with me!' Kaiba laughed and excused them, leading Serenity out onto the floor. Other couples soon followed.

Chrono was quickly snapped up by a young lady in a red dress, so Kurry moved toward a table in order to sit down. However, Link intercepted her and asked for a dance. Kindly accepting, Kurry let him lead her onto the floor.

'What an amazing evening. I haven't had this much fun since I started working here,' Link said, by way of casual conversation.

'Really? Goodness, I didn't think it was that busy,' Kurry replied.

'Oh, you have no idea. Reports to fill out, shipping details to handle, staff to manage, it's crazy. However, to be here among some of the oldest pieces of art in the world more than makes up for it.' He practically glowed then. 'I love art, the history of it, and the stories that go with it. It's just sometimes I wish I could go out more, have some fun, you know?'

'Of course,' Kurry said, smiling. 'Everyone wishes that sometimes, no matter how much they love their job.'

Link grinned. 'Exactly.'

The band stopped playing just then and Kurry thanked Link for the dance. Since at least twelve other women in the room were eyeing the handsome blonde, Kurry encouraged him to go ask one of them and made her way toward the refreshment table.

As she looked over the assortment of liquors, a tall figure stepped in beside her and ordered a drink from the man tending the bar. Kurry barely noticed until she felt the odd sensation that she was being watched. Turning, she came face to face with none other than Bakura Ryou.

'Enjoying your evening, Ms. Kurishi?' he asked casually, silently signalling the barman to bring a second drink.

'Yes, very much. The banquet was delicious.'

Bakura smiled and handed Kurry the glass. 'Serenity helped us choose the menu,' he said, a slow grin crossing his face. 'I'm very fond of the girl, she and Seto make a wonderful couple. She keeps him in line,' he added, winking. Kurry hid a smile behind her glass of champagne. 'They do look good together,' she said, and both looked over to where the couple were still dancing gaily.

Bakura chuckled. 'This is one of those 'warm fuzzy moment' kind of things, isn't it?'

'Oh yes, definitely. You can see it in their eyes,' Kurry smiled, as if they were confiding secrets. There was something about Bakura that instantly made her comfortable, even if his gaze was a bit disconcerting.

'Well now…' Bakura downed the rest of his glass and bowed to Kurry. 'May I have the honour of this dance?'

Kurry nodded and set her own glass down as well. 'Of course.'

Taking his hand, she let him lead her onto the floor as the band started on a faster number. 'I saw you dancing with Kokirin earlier. You're pretty good,' Bakura commented as he twirled her into place.

Kurry allowed a slight smirk to play upon her lips as the beat wound up. 'I've been dancing since I was eleven,' she admitted. 'I've gotten somewhat better since then.'

'We'll just have to see, won't we?' Bakura murmured, grinning.

He was surprised to see Kurry's eyes flash once at the unspoken challenge and was even impressed as they began to move. She knew all the steps and kept time perfectly with him. As the song was one they both recognised, Kurry and Bakura instantly slipped into rhythm with the beat and each other.

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

You were the sweetest thing

That I ever knew

But I don't care for sugar honey

If I can't have you

Since you abandoned me

My whole life has crashed

Won't you pick the pieces up

'Cause it feels just like I'm walking on broken glass

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

The sun's still shining

In the big blue sky

But it don't mean a thing to me

Oh, let the rain fall down

Let the wind blow through me

I'm living in an empty room

With all the windows smashed

And I've got so little left to lose

That it feels just like I'm walking on broken glass

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

And if you're trying to cut me down

You know that I might bleed

'Cause if you try to cut me down

I know that you'll succeed

And if you want to hurt me

There's nothing left to fear

'Cause if you want to hurt me

You're doing really well my dear

Now every one of us was made to suffer

Every one of us was made to weep

But we've been hurting one another

And now the pain has cut too deep

So take me from the wreckage

Save me from the blast

Lift me up and take me back

Don't let me keep on walking…

Keep on walking…

I can't keep on walking on…

Walking on…

Keep on walking on…

Walking on broken glass

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

Walking on, walking on broken glass…

People began to applaud as Bakura bowed to Kurry. 'You didn't give your dancing skills justice,' he said, his voice only slightly betraying his admiration. Kurry inclined her head at the compliment. 'Thank you. You're a magnificent dancer yourself.' Bakura smiled again, and in that instant it struck Kurry that his eyes were a deep hazel flecked with green, not brown as she had originally thought. The realisation that he had also caught her staring caused her to blush faintly and look away.

Link came over a second later. 'That was fantastic to watch. I wish my dance teacher had been as competent!' The other two chuckled and Link grinned. 'The dancing is almost over… after the other guests have left, meet at the third column next to the entrance and we'll look over security.'

As Link moved off to inform the other members of the team, Kurry turned to Bakura, intending to ask if he wanted one more drink before the bar closed. She was just in time to shove Bakura out of the way as a shorter man brought a wine bottle down on his head. Catching the culprit's wrist, she twisted the bottle out of his hand and shoved him backward into Chrono and Kaiba's strong arms.

'Bitch,' hissed the short man, and Chrono shook him angrily. 'Hey! Watch your mouth, buddy. You're under arrest.'

Completely bewildered but unharmed, Bakura straightened up and groaned when he caught sight of his attacker. 'Rex… what the hell are you doing here?'

'Obeying orders, you bastard,' Rex snapped. Chrono immediately slipped a pair of handcuffs on him. 'That's enough of that. Get him out of here,' he ordered two security guards who had just come up. As they carted Rex off, Chrono turned to Bakura. 'Care to explain what that was about?'

Bakura sighed. 'That was the lackey of a former compatriot of mine.'

'And?'

'And I'd rather not discuss it here,' Bakura answered, in a tone that brooked no argument. For the first time, Chrono did not press the issue, but the look he sent Bakura said very clearly, at a later time, then. Bakura gave a nod of understanding before going up to Kurry again.

'Thanks for that, it was quick thinking on your part.'

Kurry, whose adrenaline was still rushing, looked down at the bottle in her hand and took a deep breath. 'I was lucky to turn around in time.'

Bakura gently took the bottle from her hands and read the label, grinning. 'Hmm, that would have been a waste of an excellent year. Good save.'

Kurry rapidly muffled a giggle. 'Oh dear… it seems all the excitement has me rather giddy,' she admitted. Bakura raised an eyebrow. 'Danger excites you, does it?' he murmured, smirking. Kurry's cheeks felt as though they were on fire, yet she replied in a steady voice, 'Perhaps. Depends on who's brave enough to find out.' Slipping around him, she walked over to Chrono. 'Are we still going ahead with the plan?'

'Of course. I've shipped this Rex guy off to the station… we'll hold him overnight and question him first thing tomorrow. I have to wonder how the hell he got in here, though; according to Link, both the doormen have been there all evening.'

By this time most of the other guests had filtered out of the room, and soon only Kurry, Link, Kaiba, Serenity, Bakura and Chrono were left. The six of them gathered at the previously decided place and set off into the exhibition rooms. Link produced a set of keys from his pocket and went over to a wall outlet. 'Stay still, please,' he told them and slid a key home. Instantly red laser beams were visible about an inch off the floor.

'Look up,' Link said, and they all saw more beams form a diamond pattern halfway to the ceiling.

'Every beam is connected directly by a wireless line to the police station. If any of the beams are broken, the alarm silently alerts the police.' Turning off the beams, Link used another slot and a steel grate slid across each door and window, and over the skylight in the ceiling. 'Each grate can only be unlocked by a six digit code. The bars are solid steel and aluminium compound, impossible to saw through.' The gates slid back and the lights switched on again. Link motioned them over to a window. Looking down, they were just in time to see a security guard sign in at the gate.

'There are sixteen of them walking around in shifts all night. At no time is there ever no-one here. There are also hidden cameras in every room. Even if a thief did somehow manage to get in here, it's more than likely we would catch them on tape.' Link turned to Kaiba and smiled. 'Not to worry, your collection is completely safe.'

Kaiba and Bakura glanced at each other for a split second, then Kaiba nodded and shook Link's hand. 'Thank you very much. You will inform me if there is the slightest disturbance, will you not?'

'Of course.'

Chrono stepped forward then. 'The police have a direct line… either myself or Ms. Kurishi will be the first ones on the scene if anything should happen.'

'Excellent.'

While the chief and the CEO were talking, Kurry happened to glance back toward the doors, and was surprised to see Bakura bent double over a display case. Instantly curious, she went over to him and crouched as well, trying to see what he was looking at.

'You see this?' he asked, pointing to a small black panel in the wall.

'Yes.'

'It sees you too. I believe it is one of the security cameras.'

'Really? It must not have a very good angle on it.'

Standing again, Bakura motioned to the walls. 'There are several… one in each corner of the room, three on the ceiling, and probably a few in the floor. I'm sure whoever set this place up managed to cover every possible angle.' Though she couldn't be sure, Kurry thought that Bakura looked oddly dissatisfied about this fact. But a second later he grinned at her and motioned toward the door, where the others had gathered. 'Shall we go then?'

Stepping out into the cool night air, Link signalled the guard that they were finished and the group moved toward the parking lot. The rumble of a motor turning over was heard and a black stretch limo pulled to the curb next to them. There were handshakes all around, and Kurry noticed that both Kaiba and Bakura seemed much more comfortable than they had at the beginning of the evening. Smiling, Serenity gave Kurry's hand an extra squeeze and said, 'I do hope we'll be able to meet again outside of business situations; I'm afraid I don't know anyone in the city, but I'd dearly love to be able to look around while I'm here.'

A little surprised at how quickly the girl warmed up to people, Kurry smiled back and replied, 'Well, we'll just have to go sightseeing one of these days… I'm sure my friends and I would enjoy your company very much.'

'That's very generous of you, Ms. Kurishi; I must confess, we do tend to drag Seren around to all the boring functions on these trips,' Kaiba said, looking sheepish.

'Oh hardly Seto, I have a lovely time. I simply feel that if I'm going to visit a new city every month, I should learn something about it.'

'Quite right, my dear. Now, as it is getting late and I'm sure we've taken up enough of these good peoples' time, I think we'd best be going.'

As his colleagues entered the vehicle, Bakura saluted the others jovially and said, 'Goodnight all! I look forward to our next meeting, be it for business,' and here he glanced at Kurry, 'or pleasure.' With that, he was gone, and the sleek limo pulled away into the night.

Link sighed. 'Well, that went extremely well, all things considered. That attacker guy, though… I really hope he doesn't spell trouble for the museum.'

Chrono started pulling frantically at his tie. 'Must… get this… thing… off….' Finally succeeding in loosening the offending piece of clothing, he clapped Link on the shoulder and said, 'Not to worry, Link my friend, we'll get some answers out of him and then we'll be forewarned if any trouble should arise. A collection like this, some unscrupulous persons probably have their eyes on it. But we'll be ready.'

Reassured, Link bade them goodnight and started off to his car. Chrono gallantly offered Kurry his arm and she took it, chuckling, as they headed off down the street to hail a cab. Fortunately the taxi services were not busy this evening and one pulled up within five minutes. Once comfortably ensconced, they both gave directions and then settled back to compare notes on the evening.

'The security system seems very up-to-date,' Kurry began.

'Yes, I actually advised Link to put some money into upgrading, last month, if I'm not mistaken. I'm glad he took up on it, the sensors are an improvement,' Chrono mused.

Kurry nodded. 'And our host was very polite… well-spoken and such. An interesting man to meet, no doubt about it.'

Chrono smiled a little at that. 'You know, sometimes I think I should have put you in People Services… you're so good at reading someone, I can't believe how short-sighted I was.'

Kurry laughed lightly. 'Oh no, I enjoy where I am. But I also enjoy studying people. It helps when you're not quite sure how to react to a new face.'

'Well then, tell me something about our new acquaintances. I'm sure I didn't notice half the things you did.'

Kurry thought seriously about it for a few minutes, then said, 'Mr. Kaiba may be young, but he is… he's matured beyond his years, and it's obvious that he's very passionate about things he cares about, yet his business attitude is very straightforward and to the point. And this is just from first impression, you understand,' she added, and Chrono nodded. 'It takes more than one meeting to be able to read a person, but that's what I got from tonight.'

'And Serenity?' Chrono prodded.

'Oh, she's a lovely girl, and she obviously adores Mr. Kaiba very much. I think they make a handsome couple,' Kurry said, smiling.

'That's what I thought as well. And Bakura?'

Here Kurry paused, and seemed unsure of what to say. After a moment, she threw her hands up and sighed. 'Quite frankly, I'm not sure what to make of him. He's quite genial, courteous, even friendly, and yet… there's something else. Something… not quite right. It's… it's as if he's secretly planning and plotting all the time. He's very cunning, that much is certain, but it's almost as if the businessman is just someone he becomes on an occasional basis, and there is something else entirely that is really him. And quite frankly, I have no idea who that someone is. I'll need more time, if we ever happen to meet again.'

Chrono nodded, somewhat satisfied. 'Well, I'm no expert on people, but I think he was quite taken with you, Kurry. Perhaps this could be beneficial to both sides; if he should want to see you again, we could form a connection with them. They're important people, Kurry. It doesn't hurt to know a few important people.'

Kurry blushed faintly at that. 'Oh please, Chrono. Admittedly he's a bit of a flirt, but I'd hardly call that being 'taken' with me. I'm a police officer.'

'And what's that got to do with it? You're allowed to have a life, you know.'

Kurry shot him a look and replied, 'Police officers are only allowed to have lives when they aren't a danger to others. I am not one of those officers. You know that better then anyone, Chrono. You're the one who called the tow truck for my car last month.'

Since the taxi had just pulled up to her apartment, Kurry opened the door before Chrono had time to come up with a sufficient answer to that statement. Before she left, however, Kurry patted his arm and smiled. 'Thank you though… I had a very good time tonight.' Chrono grinned and winked. 'Hey, no problem. Oh, and don't worry about coming in tomorrow… if you don't make it at all, I won't notice.' Kurry chuckled at that and got out of the car, waving until the taxi turned the next corner.

Reaching her apartment, Kurry suddenly realised how utterly exhausted she was. I haven't danced like that in a LONG time, she thought as she undressed. Chuckling softly at the memory of the surprised look on Bakura's face, Kurry climbed into bed and slept, for once, without dreams.

END! of chapter. /grin/ This is where all the interesting stuff starts happening… hope you all enjoyed… now press zee pretty little button down there that says 'review' so that I know what y'all think of my story. Lol. Can't write if I've got nothing to go on. And I can't promise the next chapter will be anytime soon, but I'll do my best. Okay? Okay. Thanks to everyone who's been reading so far, I really appreciate it. /smile/ Till next chapter!