Disclaimer: If wishes were horses, then beggars would ride. (looks over her 300 horses) Hmm, and ygo hasn't been mine for a long time...

A/N:Wow. This was a long time in coming, but I like to think it was worth it. Actually, I had trouble writing it because my computer kept messing up. And then yesterday was messing up, so... urgh. Ahh well, here I am now. This chapter's exceedingly long- the longest chapter I have written for ANY story. I hope everyone likes it; I had fun writing it. I'm a little worried about the conversation scene with the friends- I wanted to reiterate the fact that they're all still (sometimes stupid) teenagers, but I'm afraid I made them seem too immature. Oh well, you'll have to judge for yourselves. And with no further ado... (drum roll) CHAPTER 14!

Enjoy, everyone!

chapter Fourteen:

A symphony of sensation.
A golden song that transcends all thought.
With one touch,
Your world is on fire.
The sensual sound of your own voice
As it's contorted into proof of your pleasure,
Wraps around in a heady caress of coils.
Eternal gratification.
You would sell your very soul for more.
You need it.
Now.
And as your heart sings that timeless song,
You could swear you were flying higher than the stars.

He could remember the very instant he knew he loved her- the exact moment, probably close to the minute, when he was totally honest with his heart. It was a brief, average moment- nothing particularly special or important about it... except for that startling, breath-catching realization. The second was frozen in his mind- as senseless and mundane as it was, it would stay in his memory always. He wasn't being sentimental or romantic (he told himself a hundred times), the moment was just... hard to forget. It was amazing how such a great revelation, such a life-altering conclusion had been reached on an average, everyday, plain-as-rain Sunday morning...

The Fourth Month

The day was still new. It was early- dawn had just broken, spilling out rays of sun onto all the earth. Pale, painted skies of blue and gold beckoned the morning, letting all the world know that it was time to begin a new day. But the harmonious, eager call was ignored. Still snuggled in their warm, cozy, absurdly comfortable beds, people slept ever on, waiting for a more "decent" hour to awaken.

She had spend the night again; really, it had almost become routine for them, and neither were shy about it anymore. Mokuba was safely nestled in his own bed, and Seto was confident that they would have no problem sneaking her out before the young boy could suspect anything. Eventually, if the relationship went anywhere, Mokuba would absolutely have to be told. But until then... Seto could keep his secret.

As ridiculous as it was, the world seemed perfect. Nothing could upset him, not then, not with her. Yes, absurd, absolutely improbable. But there he was, and that was the only place he wanted to be. She was exquisite, and he took no little pleasure in knowing that she was his. There was no one who could tell him to stay away, and no one who told him that he had to be with her. He chose his fate- he knowingly chose his own prison. Perhaps he hadn't walked in expecting to be detained, but when he had found her and she beckoned him in with wide open arms, he discovered that he just couldn't will himself to leave.

They were nestled underneath the covers, in a warm, delicious confinement. She was still asleep, snuggled right up against him, one arm looped possessively around a plump pillow. He blinked open his eyes with a smile. If only he could wake up like that every morning- a warm, welcome body beside him. His arm was draped over her middle, and he had to resist the urge to pull her closer to him. She looked so beautiful, hair falling in her face, mouth partly open, and completely tranquil as she lay there, big, thick comforter all the way up to her chin. Since no one else was around, he allowed himself a grin.

Suddenly, completely breaking the peaceful picture, she let out a loud, grunting snore. He couldn't help but laugh- that was so like her, to completely break all his preconceptions and expectations. Maybe it wasn't the most romantic or beautiful thing, but he wouldn't have changed one thing about her- not even her loud, masculine-sounding snores. He carefully brushed a strand of hair out of her eyes, secretly relishing the softness of her cheek. If he took away even the most insignificant of flaws, she wouldn't be the same wonderful girl- she wouldn't be that incredible, lovely- and even intensely agitating- person he had learned to love. He had... Learned to...

His own thoughts shocked him. Even in that haze between sleeping and waking, where thoughts were little more than floating dreams, that one idea stood out clear and coherent.

He loved her.

Really, he actually did.

With a sigh, he lay down again on the other side of the bed. He glanced at her. Could it possible be true? Did he really, honestly love her? The very girl who was currently drooling beside him? (He couldn't help but shake his head at her silliness. She was actually drooling. He'd have to get that pillowcase washed later. Her make-up had probably stained it, too.) Well... The resounding answer that rang as clear as a bell in his head was "yes". He did. He couldn't make excuses (and he certainly tried). He loved her.

Softly, and with a trembling sense of amazement, he bent over and lightly kissed her cheek. At the touch, her eyes fluttered open.

"You weren't supposed to wake up," he whispered.

"I'm... not... not awake. Still sleepy..." She couldn't really do more than mumble.

"Then go back to sleep," he instructed, trying to look stern.

Even in her inebriated state, she knew that she had never been happier. The ease of contentment radiated off her in waves, and as she snuggled deeper into Seto's toasty blankets, she knew that there was no place in the world she would rather be. She yawned widely. "M'gonna. If you'd... be quiet... Bad Seto. Keeping me... awake."

He rolled his eyes and kissed her forehead. "You're simply ridiculous."

'But I still love you. With all my heart.'

Shaking his head to clear away any more stray thoughts of such an unforgivable nature, he brought his arms all the way around her body. The topped of her head was tucked neatly under his chin, and she hummed in pleasure as she squirmed closer into his chest. They must have made quite a picture, he thought, both wearing equally ridiculous grins that stretched all the way across their faces.

And though, in his normal routine, he would get up and get moving right about that time, she was worth sleeping in for. Maybe just a few seconds longer, just to enjoy the feeling of her in his arms. Maybe just a minute longer, just so he could reacquaint himself with the soft scent of her hair. Maybe just... another hour... She just belonged... next to him... Maybe... Just... Little longer... He refused to fall... asleep.

A few hours later, she finally decided it was time to get out of bed. Seto must have already gotten up, though the mysterious flower that had found its way on top of one of the other pillows was a clear indication that he hadn't just been some intoxicating dream. She wore a lazy smile as she meandered down the stairs, looking forward to a bite of something sweet. And she wasn't just talking about breakfast.

Seto was already downstairs, still wearing his black flannel pajama pants, standing by the toaster listening to Tchaikovsky's Waltz of the Flowers- the strains of which were wafting gently from a hidden player.Why? Well, that she couldn't answer, but he did make a tempting picture. Suddenly, the toast popped up, and whipping out two small plates, he caught the slices (of now toasted bread) as they were in the air (really, the man could do anything) and put them on said dishes, all ready for consumption.

Fiddling with the flower as she held it behind her back, (the petals were white and the stem was green- she could discern nothing else) she grinned happily and began to sneak closer.

A few bars of some random song made their way to her ears. That voice... That was Seto's voice! Téa resisted the mad urge she had to heartily chuckle, and instead made an immediate vow to catch him in the act and tease him mercilessly. And, as she recognized what he was singing, (darling you gotta let me know) the moment was made even more delicious.

As she stepped fully into the clean kitchen, she indiscreetly cleared her throat. Seto spun around, and upon seeing her face with that devious smile, he immediately frowned. "What are you doing?" she asked innocently, wearing the picture-perfect expression of honesty and sweetness.

He rolled his eyes. "I'm preparing breakfast. Unless, of course, you've decided to forego it. But if that's the case, you'll just have to eat it anyway. I'm not going to waste good toast."

"Not even for me? The light of your poor, pathetic morning?"

"Especially not for you."

"Well." She pretended to be quite offended. "I abhor toast anyway, and certainly wouldn't pollute my body with such... waste." She eyed the bread hungrily. He hadn't even burned it.

He took a bite, eyes never leaving hers.

"Why, I even have butter," he added snidely. "It's such a shame you aren't having any."

"Butter," she mused, leaning against the tall island, absently batting the flower against the countertop. "And jam?"

"Yes. And jam."

"Such expensive tastes," she exclaimed, pretending to be quite shocked. "Could you possible be induced to share?"

For a moment, he made quite a show of thinking. "No. I don't believe I could." But raising an eyebrow and smirking playfully, he added, "Not unless you've already accomplished your six impossible things."

"Of course I have!" She said, hand on her chest in feigned indignation. "The very insinuation appalls me. Really Seto, I'd thought I'd taught you better than that. You mustn't ever doubt me."

"Taught me?" he asked, an elegant eyebrow going up slightly. "I don't believe so."

"And then you dare to deny it!" She waggled a finger at him in gentle reprimand. "I must get my revenge." She leaned in closer. "I heard you, I know I did. You were singing; just as I walked in I happened to catch a snippet or two. And I do hate to say this, but your tone could definitely use improvement." She reached out an arm and dipped a finger in the jar of strawberry jam he had sitting out, then laughed at the expression upon his pretty face. "Now. I think you've been properly embarrassed."

"Hmph. At least I'm not the one whose dulcet tones could be compared to a moose dying."

She stopped cold. "Well, all of the things! You could have said I sounded like a bullfrog, or a squeaky wheel, or likened my voice to the sound of an alley cat's howl. But no. I got moose. A moose- that lumbering, antlered animal." She stuck up her nose. "It's nice to finally know what you really think of me."

Seto rolled his eyes again. "And here I thought you were the relatively normal one."

Téa grinned and shook her head. "Not even close, mister. And now, since I've endured such slander and abuse, I believe you owe me that scrumptious looking piece of toast sitting beside you."

He picked it up and held it just out of her reach. "Six things, my impetuously perky breakfast crusader."

She began to tick the things off on her left hand. "Well, to start things off with a bang... I woke up beside you, Mr. Only-My-Duel-Disk-Turns-Me-On." His look after that statement was absolutely priceless. "And two, Mokuba didn't even catch me! In books and movies and stories of any sort, the heroes always get caught in such scandalous situations!"

"What makes you think you're the hero?" he rudely interjected.

She chose to ignore him. "And then I caught you, listening to music from the Nutcracker and singing! You were actually singing! The moment will live in infamy." She tapped a finger on her chin as she playfully considered something. "Though, it would have been much funnier if I could have caught you dancing around and shaking your ass, too."

He let out a sigh that sounded more like a growl.

"Not only that, but I seem to have been rifling through your drawers- make of that what you will- before I came downstairs. It just happened to be open, I promise." She examined her fingernails as though they were the most interesting things in the world before she glanced up at him out of the corner of her eye and said absently, "I also found something indecently small and leopard-print that I intend to have a serious conversation about later." She winked and giggled. "And lastly, I was quite unjustly compared to a moose! All impossible things indeed. Now- you've denied me my bread for far long enough. Release it forthwith!"

He raised a skeptical eyebrow. "That was only five things."

"Oh, was it really?" She grinned cheekily. "I suppose I must have forgotten one. I'm here, with you, actually having this ridiculous, inescapably silly conversation."

"Ahh. Impossible indeed." He handed her the plate, and with a quick nod of thanks, she began to gobble it up.

"So... Where is Mokuba anyway? I was expecting us to have to make a hasty retreat, but I've seen neither hide nor hair of him all morning. Is he even still here?"

For some reason, Seto grinned and held up a small slip of paper that she hadn't noticed. "He left before you got up. Left a note, took his cell-phone, should be back a little after lunch. Apparently a new game is going on sale this morning and he's meeting a few friends at the mall to buy it, and then they're all piling in at someone's house to kill precious brain cells playing it."

"Well, I'm glad he didn't happen to try and check on you before he left. If he had seen me... The poor boy would have had a heart attack!"

His smirk broadened. "Oh, as he wrote in the note, he knew I was still asleep because he could hear snoring coming from my room. Snoring. Can you believe it?"

"Um... Is there a reason I should be skeptical?"

He looked far too devious and amused for her to feel completely safe. "Not particularly. Except for the rather relevant fact that I happened to be showering in the adjoining bathroom at the time he said that he happened to hear it."

She glowed bright red and lowered her eyes to her toast. "I don't think I like what's being implied here."

"Nothing's being implied."

Téa frowned embarrassed and unhappily. "You're such an ass."

"I know. But at least I don't snore. Or sing like a dying moose."

He couldn't help the chuckle that escaped even as he ducked the projectile flower that was soaring straight for his head.

And after a moment or two of her grumbling quietly to herself, he spoke up hesitantly. "It... It was just a gag-gift from the KaibaCorp. Christmas party, and-"

She held up a hand. "I don't even want to hear it."

(Line)

"You know," Tristan said unhappily, pointing an accusatory finger straight at Téa, "I don't get you at all."

She looked at him curiously, an eyebrow delicately raised. "Um... Ok?"

"Well, I don't mean you specifically," he amended. "I'm really referring to all girls in general. Why do you have to be so damn confusing?"

"Ahh yes, blame all the faults of my gender solely on me. That will certainly help you understand us."

He rolled his eyes. "I'm not blaming anyone. I'm just... Atypically annoyed."

"This have anything to do with that date you had a few days ago?" Joey asked with a smirk.

Tristan smacked him on the arm. "Can you really blame me for being totally confused? I see her at school, she's funny, engaging, she's..." He glanced at Téa, "Um, she's very attractive, and I thought I'd take her out and we'd have a nice time. Well... We didn't!" He shook his head. "I just don't understand. How can girls act so weird around guys and on dates, and then be perfectly, functionally normal around everyone else the rest of the time? I'm at a total mental road-block here- please, explain this irrational behavior to me."

"What, and give away all the intricate secrets of the female race?" she teased. His only response was to look annoyed. "I'm kidding. But to be honest, I don't know why she did that. Maybe she was afraid you wouldn't like her if she acted the way she normally does. I mean, guys really have no idea what girls are like when we're away from them. Some girls really care about guys' opinions, and she might be one of them. Maybe she was acting the way she thought you wanted her to."

"Girls are just strange," Jou said, leaning back with his hands behind his head.

"You got that right," Tristan muttered in agreement.

Joey smirked. "That's why I only date women."

Yugi snickered a little, and Téa threw a wad of paper at the offensive Wheeler. Tristan rolled his eyes. "Yeah, sure man, whatever you say. You don't even date! The only girl you could ever get to look at you would be your sister."

"Hey! Leave my sister outta this!" He stood up, and would have dived to tackle Tristan had Yugi not immediately intervened.

"Guys, come on," he said quietly, "We're still in school. Why don't you just postpone this til later?"

They glared at each other and said at the same time, "Whatever."

Yugi and Téa just looked at each other. They were used to it.

Suddenly, Joey, not wanting the tense atmosphere to continue, remembered something that Yugi had said earlier. Forgetting about the argument completely, he asked, "Hey Yug, what was that thing you were saying, uh... yesterday or something? You were trying to tell me something, but you neva got to finish."

Yugi's eyes discreetly flashed to Téa. He looked down and said, "It's not really important."

Tristan shook his head. "No man, if you were saying it, then we want to hear it."

"Yeah, come on Yugi, you got me all curious."

He sighed. "I know you hate him, but... Well, have any of you noticed that Kaiba seems to have changed? I mean, I know he's still much the same as he ever was, but there have been some subtle differences. He hasn't verbally attacked you in about a week, Joey. He hasn't challenged me to any duels. And... well, he hasn't ever really come after you, Tristan, but at least that's staying consistent."

Only Téa noticed how he tactfully "forgot" to mention her name.

"Dude," Tristan said, looking as though he had just reached some reality changing realization. "You know how we were just talking about how girls are different around guys?"

The others nodded, trying to find a point.

Tristan laughed and said, " Well, just imagine this, imagine this- what if Kaiba's acting different, or he's changed... Because of a girl."

"What?" Joey asked incredulously, "Kaiba and a girl? The bastard doesn't even know what a woman is. He's like... Some sub-human or something. I doubt he's ever had a relationship in his life."

"I don't know," Tristan said, "When do we ever talk to him? Nobody knows what goes on in his personal life. There was a rumor in some tabloid a while ago that he had to fire a secretary because she threatened to go public with their inter-office relationship. And if the article is to be believed, then Kaiba knows a little more than we're giving him credit for."

"You're supposed to be condoning his Kaiba-bashing, not inhibiting it," Yugi said with a grin. He wouldn't put a stop to the conversation just yet. A little harmless teasing (Téa needed it sometimes) couldn't hurt anything, right?

"Exactly, Yug," Joey said with a smirk. (Though he wasn't sure just what 'condone' meant.) "And trust me, that icicle hasn't got one chick to his name."

Téa rolled her eyes. "You pig. I see who makes notches in his bedpost."

"Hey now, I didn't mean it like that. But be honest Téa- what girl would even let ole moneybags near her?"

Téa's eyes widened a little and she said shakily, "Well... You obviously don't know the rumors that go around in the girls' locker room. There are more than a few girls who think he's pretty damn... uh, gorgeous is, I think, the word they used."

"Oh tell me you're not one of their number," Tristan moaned.

Luckily, she was saved from responding by Joey, who with a look bordering on reverence said, "Girls talk about guys... Like, you know, that? What else do they say?"

Téa's face deadpanned. "Oh, we talk about the same sort of stuff guys do. You know, cold fusion and the cure for cancer."

Joey looked confused. "N-no, we talk about stuff li-"

Yugi patted him on the shoulder. "Joey, you really don't want to finish that sentence."

"Yeah, and it doesn't matter anyway." Tristan slid the conversation away with a wave of his hand. "Girls might think, for some unfathomable reason, that Kaiba the irascible asshole is attractive, but there is no way that he's getting any action."

"Oh, God, we've moved on to his sex-life?" Téa asked, covering her red, red face with her hands. "Please, spare me."

"What's the point in talking about something that doesn't exist?" Joey asked with a snort.

Yugi looked at Téa askance. "It doesn't exist, right?"

Joey, of course, was not made in the least bit suspicious by that question. "No way! I mean, certainly not from anybody sane. And probably not anyone, like, willing; if he is getting any I bet it's costing him a pretty penny." Téa looked at him aghast, Yugi's face was contorted in an obvious wish to change the subject, and Tristan... Well, he just looked perversely amused. Suddenly, an idea of the highest caliber (on his sickened mind's scale) hit Joey with the force of a lightening bolt. "Or what if... He's not real interested in girls because he's not interested in girls."

"What the hell are you talking about, Joey?"

"Well think about it; it really explains a lot. I mean, I can understand wanting to duel sometimes, but the way he's always challenging Yugi?" Joey nodded knowingly. "I think our king of games here has himself a secret admirer."

It took a moment for the statement to sink in.

Then... The laughter began. Tristan held his sides as his boisterous chuckles consumed him. "Kaiba? Have a crush on Yugi? Oh my... Th-that is... Too hilarious."

"Do we have to discuss this?" Yugi asked miserably. "This is making me incredibly uncomfortable."

"Aw, relax Yug," Jou said. "It's all just fun. I mean, the bastard probably doesn't even know what sex is, anyway. Our conversation's just, uh... Friendly conjecture."

Tristan suddenly put a hand on Téa's arm and said, "Come on. We have to get to the window."

Hesitantly, she asked him, "Why?"

"To see pigs flying," he said, as though it were the most obvious thing in the world. "They must be you know; Joey just used the word 'conjecture' in a sentence. Correctly."

Joey glared at him. "I'm not a total idiot, you know," he said angrily.

Téa smiled sweetly. "Really? Could have fooled me."

He pouted. "Come on guys, you can't all gang up on me. I liked it better when we were ragging on Kaiba."

"Actually," Tristan said with a smirk, "I think we were teasing Yugi about Kaiba wanting in his pants."

"I really don't want to continue in that vein," Yugi said shrilly. "And honestly, I don't really care about Kaiba's sexual preference. He can like whoever he wants to like, and who he lets in his pants in entirely his business!"

But upon seeing the priceless look on Tristan and Joey's faces, he gulped and slowly turned around. Yugi winced. "Hi, K-Kaiba."

The other boy wore a bemused expression, clearly pleased with the embarrassing situation his rival had found himself in. Sneering, Kaiba said, "Well, it's nice to have your permission to screw anyone I choose. Not, of course, that I even need it."

Yugi slumped down in utter humiliation. "Why do these things always happen to me?" he muttered quietly to himself.

"Hey, leave Yugi alone," Joey said sternly, prepared to cover for his friend. "You shouldn't be walkin' into our conversations anyway. It's none o' your business."

"You were talking about me, weren't you, you brainless buffoon? I think that makes it my business."

"Well then," Tristan said, taking the position of devil's advocate. "Perhaps you validate a certain... idea Joey here had.

"Tristan," Joey growled, "You better keep your mouth shut."

Tristan grinned maliciously. "Do you not want him to know what you think of him, Joey old pal? Are you embarrassed? Or scared that you might be right- and Yugi's not the one who's captured his attention?"

"What the hell are you talking about, you pointy-haired simpleton?"

Tristan cocked his head to one side, looking up at Kaiba. "Do you like boys? Joey thinks you have a crush on Yugi."

Kaiba stiffened considerably. His shoulders rose about half an inch, hands clenched into fists at his sides. Téa recognized the signs. Tristan had opened a can of worms, and if she didn't do something to stop him, Seto would kick his ass right there in front of all of them.

"You know, there's nothing wrong with that," Téa said. "Why shouldn't he be allowed to like Yugi if he wants to?" Seto turned his head to glare at her; she couldn't help teasing him. "And for that matter, why can't he like you, or Joey, or even me? It's his prerogative."

Yugi nodded, his blush finally receding. He also saw the perfect opportunity to, for lack of better terms, offer his blessing. He knew that Kaiba, regardless of Joey and Tristan's speculations, was in fact involved with someone- and that someone happened to be their best friend! Téa didn't know that he knew, but Kaiba did. He didn't have a problem (not a big one, anyway) with the two of them being together, but any details he really didn't need, or want, to hear. "Yes. Everyone's allowed to be with anyone they choose." He cast a glance at Téa.

"I know I am," Kaiba said fiercely, "and it's not any of your damn business. I'll have you know- keeping in mind that you don't even deserve the information- that I do not have a crush on the shrimp here, nor will I ever." He glared at Yugi so ferociously that Téa was scared he'd make the poor boy melt. "I could have any woman I chose, and, luckily for me, I actually have one who wants me. Hmm, that's a hell of a lot more than any of you can say."

"You... Actually have a girlfriend?" Joey asked, too shocked to remember to be rude.

Kaiba smirked. "No, she's not my girlfriend. We're sleeping together, but that's about it."

"Damn," Tristan said, trying hard not to be impressed. "I can barely get a date and you've managed to find a girl who isn't interested in a relationship?"

"What can I say," Kaiba said with an arrogant shrug, "It's not my fault you're a loser, now is it?"

Téa looked at him disapprovingly. First he said those things about her- did it matter if they were true?- and then he insulted her friends. He was just digging himself deeper and deeper.

"Who is she?" Joey asked skeptically, his initial shock beginning to settle into disbelief. "I bet you're lying just to make yourself look good. Do we know her?"

Seeing him, get ready to release a scathing retort, Yugi quickly cut Kaiba off before he even had a chance to speak. "I'm sure whoever it is," he gave Téa a significant look, hoping that for once she would get the hint, "is a great person. I'm sure she's a wonderful girl."

Téa was worried. 'Is Yugi saying... What I think he's saying? He can't be. I know he had his suspicions, but...'

She turned to look at Seto, and he mouthed "Yugi knows."

In wide-eyed embarrassment and total surprise, so much in fact that it impaired her brain, she turned back to Yugi and blurted out, "You know?"

"I mean, um, you kn-know the answer to the math problem I was working on yesterday? Why didn't you tell me?"

"Well," Yugi said quietly, "I thought that you would come to me when you were ready. Um, ready to here the answer, that is."

She looked down. "I should have. I'm sorry."

"Don't worry about it." He smiled. "As long as you're happy, that's all I care about."

Just then, they all heard the bell. The students- including our little group- gathered their things and rose, then obligingly exited.

Téa smiled at Seto, and hurried to her locker. She could postpone the conversation they'd both have to have with Yugi for a little while. At least he accepted it- the anxiety that lifted had been immense.

"Not too bad, Mutou," Kaiba said from behind Yugi. "Your opinion doesn't matter to me, but I know that Téa values it. You're not particularly subtle, but the others were too dense to pick anything up."

Yugi sighed. "You could stand to be a little nicer you know. And I don't mind whatever goes on between you and Téa. Just... It's your private life, so I think it would be a good idea to keep it private."

Seto chuckled darkly. "You just don't want to hear any of the details about how I'm doing your best friend."

Yugi winced. "Don't put it like that. You're getting way too much sadistic pleasure from making me uncomfortable."

Seto laughed again, and pushed past him, headed off to his next destination.

Walking together, Tristan and Joey exchanged a glance. If they weren't mistaken, they had just seen Yugi and Kaiba talking- civilly, no less.

"Y'know," Joey said contemplatively, "I get the feeling that there was something in that conversation that we just totally missed."

They had just finished a delicious supper. Renting out an entire restaurant just for one evening together may have been a bit extreme, but Seto assured her that the expense was nothing, and in the end she'd thank him. She knew better than to question his judgement (out loud, at least), so she resigned herself to the situation, and set about soaking up as much enjoyment as she could.

After they ate, he took her to his house (as if that hadn't been the real reason for the date to begin with). They were on the living room couch, TV on though they weren't really watching it. She would discreetly try to snuggle up to him, but he usually caught her before she could.

"This has been a nice evening," he said, turning down the volume of a commercial for some household cleaner. He turned towards her, a complacent look on his shadowed, sexy face.

Téa smiled. "Oh, you always know just what to say," she teased. "What am I going to do with you?"

He smirked. A shiver coursed down her spine; that look always meant something very, very good. "Hmm, shall I place myself totally at your disposal?" He pulled her gently closer to him, and kissed her slowly. His fingers nimbly raked through her soft brown hair. "I'm not sure I can trust you."

She pouted, and wound her arms around his neck. "Of course you can trust me; I promise I'll be good."

"That doesn't mean I'll be." He kissed her roughly, pulling their bodies together in a close, intimate embrace. His hands were busy, roaming possessively over her body, lighting her on fire everywhere at once. He moved his lips to her neck, dancing sensually across the skin with an unmatched skill.

Suddenly he felt her hands on his shoulders trying to push him away. She had never done that before. "What is it?" he growled.

"Seto," she murmured, her voice shaky, "we need to stop."

"Why?" he asked, suggestively fingering the hem of her shirt. He smirked and when he spoke his voice gave her chills. "I was just starting to enjoy myself."

"Well, because Mokuba is standing right there, watching his big brother doing inappropriate things with a girl he's supposed to hate."

She watched Seto's eyes widen. "Oh shit," he cursed, pulling away from her and turning his head around. Sure enough, Mokuba was right there, his mouth hanging open gaping at them.

"S-Seto," he asked hesitantly. "Wh-what's going on? Am I dreaming here? Because I just walked in on you and Téa Gardener making out." Seto could have sworn he saw the boy's eye twitch.

Téa looked down and blushed. "Mokuba," she said quietly, "You're not dreaming."

"I knew something was going on between you two!" he exclaimed, "I knew it. It was that chemistry project wasn't it?"

"Yes."

"You caught us Mokuba," Seto said, running his hand through his hair. "I'm sorry we didn't tell you. We wanted to keep it a secret," he muttered, avoiding both sets of eyes.

"I... I don't mind," Mokuba said. "Other than the fact that the previous scene has scarred me for life, I'm actually happy for you. I think it's great that you two got together." He smiled at Téa. "Seto needed someone to help him relive all that stress he has."

Seto crossed his arms over his chest. "I don't need anyone."

Téa laughed. "Oh please. Admit it- you're totally addicted to me."

Seto huffed haughtily. "Just because I'm psychologically dependent does not mean I'm addicted."

Sensing their desire to be alone, and continue their previously interrupted activities, Mokuba began backing out of the room. "Well," he said in a would-be-innocent way, "I'm just going to go. You two behave yourselves, alright?"

He laughed louder than he had in months as Seto scowled and blushed furiously red.

He was wrapped in a big, billowing navy trenchcoat, walking aimlessly down the path with a folded newspaper under his arm. She sped up, biting her lip to restrain her impulse to call out to him. When she finally caught up to him, the discreetly touched his arm. "Just my luck to meet you here," she said, a sneer- fake of course- plastered on her face. "Do you live to make me miserable, Kaiba?" she asked melodramatically. "Tell me the honest truth."

He glared. "Yes. Your agony sustains my blackened heart."

She turned around towards him and put her hands on her hips. "What a horrid man! I can scarcely believe it; you're going to make me cry."

Seto rolled his eyes. "Why did I agree to this again? You're being utterly ridiculous."

Téa grinned cheekily. "You know you enjoy it. I throw your own words back at you- the inanity is entrancing."

They had started walking down the path slowly, enjoying the cool day. She had to hand it to him- an "accidental" meeting in the park really was a stroke of brilliance. "You know," he replied, "I was being sarcastic when I said that."

They were walking along silently. She was perfectly content with that, they would probably have ended up arguing anyway, so a quick lapse in conversation was more than fine. A thrill went through her just by being near him. It was a wonderful experience, just being together, no expectations or secrets.

'I never thought I could be this happy with him,' she thought. 'Maybe this isn't a very healthy relationship, but I wouldn't trade it for the world.'

She looked around, the lazy afternoon casting a spell on all her senses. Sporadically, she'd spot other people meandering around, soaking up the day, although it was never anyone that they knew. (Yugi, Joey, Tristan, Mokuba... Nope, not there.) A large number of them were couples (what she and Seto decidedly weren't), shoulders touching and hands clasped together. They would turn towards each other and smile, sharing intimate secrets they didn't want the world to know.

All that togetherness- it made Téa a little uncomfortable. She was sorely tempted to edge closer to Seto, just to get away from it. (But then reason kicked in- and she didn't) Having him at all meant sacrificing any chance of that, she knew that going into the situation. They didn't need to parade around their relationship- it was really more of a business arrangement than an actual relationship anyway. A secret, mutual contract- and that was how it would always be. Right. She was fine with that.

...Wasn't she?

Téa sighed silently but deeply. Her views and wants had changed long before then, but for Seto's sake, she kept up the pretenses. They kept him- and her too, she supposed- safe. Unfettered. Free of any unnecessary attachment. He was more than just a temporary distraction, though. She needed him like her body needed nourishment. She was happy with the situation, but she was more than aware that it couldn't last forever. Eventually, something would come up, and one of them would be forced to break it off. There weren't any real commitments between them- that was the beauty of it.

But then, she had to consider, wasn't commitment one of the risks that made a relationship worth it? Weren't danger and excitement and a bond between two people part of the appeal? It had definitely progressed beyond mere physical attraction, at least for her. She loved his body, but... well, it was amazing how much she had learned about him! Her whole perception of him had totally changed from what it was before they were involved.

And deep down, whether she could accept it or not, she knew the truth. She knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, what had her coming back to him again and again. It was unstable and maybe a little frightening, but there was no denying that it was there. She was in love with him. She loved him.

It was sweet and soft, unassuming and delicate, that young love that had blossomed in her heart.

She didn't want Seto to know, though. He had made a huge point of saying that he didn't want either of them to get emotionally attached. Telling him that she loved him, would only ruin what they had. But it filled her with more joy than she could ever remember feeling before, and she knew that it was too precious to try and suppress.

Suddenly secure in her new knowledge, she decided to be bold. Scooting closer to him as they walked, she surreptitiously reached down and gently took his hand in hers.

He raised an eyebrow and turned to look at her. "What are you doing?"

"Everyone else in this park is holding hands- I thought why shouldn't we?" She smiled at him shyly. "That Ok?"

He gruffly nodded, threading their fingers together. The two were silent for a rather awkward moment. Suddenly he said, "God, I feel so... normal. Just walking, holding hands with you, as though we were on an actual date or something. It's... It's a strange feeling."

She laughed at him. "Don't worry, no one we know will see us. And it's fine to be normal once in a while." She winked. "Just enjoy yourself."

Suddenly, though, she gasped, and pointed excitedly to their right. "Ooh, look look look! Come on, we have to go over there! It's empty; come on!"

"What are you babbling about?"

"An empty swing set!" she said as she pulled him over to it. "I love to swing; come on, we have to go check it out!"

He watched her run over, almost tempted to laugh at her antics so typical of a child. She had never lost her sense of wonder; it was almost refreshing to be around someone who could still wish on a star, or believe in a magic show, or even still smile like she really meant it.

He slowly ambled over to her. She laughed loudly and happily, and sat down on one of the swings. "You want to?" she asked, indicating the seat next to hers.

He shook his head. "I don't swing. I'll just push you." That seemed to suit her just fine, and she grinned giddily as strong hands gently propelled her forward. The air whipped by her, brushing across her face, and carelessly tangling her hair. The day was languid and lovely as the two love-sick souls slowly wasted the afternoon away.

XXX

Yugi had just been out for a walk through the park when he came across a most peculiar sight. His grandpa had asked him to pick up a few groceries, but knowing that he wasn't expected anytime soon, he had decided to take a few minutes to enjoy himself and get a little bit of exercise.

But his tranquil frame of mind was temporarily interrupted when he saw a small head of black hair hiding behind a large bush. After a second glance, he recognized the unruly mop as Mokuba Kaiba. What in the world was that boy doing in a bush? Yugi cautiously approached.

"Mokuba?" he asked. "What are you doing? Are you alright? Why are you in a... a bush?"

"Ssh!" Mokuba hissed. "I'm spying on Seto. He's on a date with Téa- they're over on that swingset. You see them?"

Yugi peered over to where the boy was pointing. Sure enough, he could make out a tall figure clad in a trench coat pushing a happy, smiling girl on one of the park's many swings. It made an adorable picture- two vibrant (yes, even Kaiba could be vibrant when touched by love's subtle stirrings), content teenagers just trying to be together. Really, it was like something from a fairy tale or a movie (or a fluffy shojo manga).

A sad smile made its way onto Yugi's face. There had been a time once when he had wanted to be the man beside her, pushing her on an old swing in the middle of a romantic park. But that had been long ago, and those feelings had passed. He loved her, but not in nearly the same way. And obviously not nearly as much as Kaiba did. The expression on his unguarded face gave everything away. He was a man desperately, violently in love- and judging from what Yugi knew of Téa the feelings were reciprocated.

Gradually, the swing slowed until it was barely moving, and then Kaiba grabbed the chains to bring it to a complete stop. Téa craned her neck around to look at him, and he smiled gently down on her. Something he said made her laugh joyfully, and then the two lovers shared a soft kiss. Yugi had never, in all his years of knowing him, seen Kaiba so... happy- so utterly content.

Mokuba made a gagging noise beside him. "Ugh, all they ever do is suck face. That's gross."

Yugi laughed. "I'm sure you won't think so one day. But what made you decide to trail them?"

"Well Seto wouldn't tell me where he was going. He made up this really flimsy lie about buying something at this store. It was pretty pathetic. So... I decided to follow him and see what he was up to." Mokuba put his elbows on his knees and cupped his chin in his hands. He grinned at Yugi. "I guess I should have figured it'd be with her, huh?"

Yugi smiled in return and nodded.

Mokuba turned his attention back to his brother. "Seto really likes her, doesn't he?"

Yugi stuffed his hands in his jacked pockets and looked to the ground. "He loves her, Mokuba. I don't even know him very well, but I can definitely tell you that. It's as obvious as if it were right here alive in front of me. And I'm glad. Téa deserves to be loved, and... Well, maybe your brother will be too preoccupied with her to remember to hate me."

Mokuba laughed. "Yeah. Love really changes a person, doesn't it?"

"Sometimes it can. Love is amazing- flexible and beautiful. It affects everyone. Even the most selfish people can fall in love- their partner can give them their heart, soul, and total unwavering devotion. And all the other person would have to do was love them in return."

"But..." Mokuba started, confused, "Wouldn't they have to give a lot in return? If love is really all of that, I mean."

"No. Love can change. Not only the most selfish, but also the most selfless people can fall in love. They can give away their hearts, their time, from the very first memory to the very last phobia, they can give away all of themselves. And all they expect in return is a little love."

Mokuba looked at him like he was crazy. "Whatever, Yugi. I'm not into all that... love stuff yet. Seto would probably have a heart attack if I even started talking about girls. I'm gonna wait- emotions and feelings and all that crap really don't interest me."

Téa and Seto were leaving then, still holding hands, heading down a different path through the park. "Ooh, I gotta go Yugi," Mokuba said. "I'll talk to you later!" And he stealthily ran after his brother, grinning with excitement for his self-appointed mission.

"Don't worry," Yugi said to himself in response to Mokuba's statement. "You may not want to fall in love now, but one day I promise you the emotions will be infinitely more alluring." He tightened his jacked around himself, and kicked a rock with his shoe. The winds were picking up a bit. He knew that he needed to head home soon.

Turning left towards the grocery store, Yugi walked slowly humming a song to himself, feeling strangely accepting and at peace with the whole world. It had been a good day.

End A/N: Oh my gosh! Fear my 21 pages of wonderful literary artistry! Hmm... Actually, on second thought, you should revere it. No, I'm kidding; I'm still on a writing high from it, so that's making me a little crazy. Ok! Well, I have only ONE MORE CHAPTER to go after this- I'll miss this story, I really will. I love it! Heh. Anyway, I'd greatly appreciate reviews from all of you! The feedback helps mea lot! Alright, that's it. 'Til chapter fifteen and goodbye:

ILB