Hello, everyone! Long time no see, I know! I will be visiting some of my later works in hopes of getting myself out of the emotional rut that I've found myself in. Not going to bore you with details (since we are all having our fair share) so I'll just jump right in!
Big thank you for everyone who takes the time to read and keep up with me! I see you and I love you all!
. . . .
Forecast: Cutesy fluffy clouds ahead!
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I don't own rights to the characters of Yu-Gi-Oh! Or Anastasia!
Anastasia (Original Yu-Gi-Oh! Style)
Finale
"At least stay until the doctor says that you are well again." Mai's mauve eyes followed the young brunette as she walked about the room. She hurried to steady Tea when her knees wobbled dangerously, scolding her softly when she was shaken off. "He said you would be well enough to attend the celebration but until then you need to stay in bed."
"After what I've done, I highly doubt they ever want to see me again." Her shoulders rose and fell in a sigh. "And it would be easier for them to move on without me here reminding them of what happened."
Slender arms wrapped around the young woman from behind, golden hair cascading over her shoulders. "Tea, no one blames you for what happened. If anything, I think they are thankful that you had the strength to do what you did. Most people would have left Atem in that abandoned palace, taken advantage of him or even turned him into the heretics. Not you though. You not only saved him from a lifetime of loneliness and memory loss, you were his compass that guided him home to where he belongs while saving him from the curse."
"She is right." Both women turned then dropped into a curtsy as Solomon, the former monarch before the father of the twin princes, entered the room. He inclined his head in acceptance of their respect but encouraged them to raise their gazes as he approached Tea. His wrinkled and weather hands took gentle hold of hers, encouraging her closer with a light tug and reached up to cup her cheek within a palm. "Sit with me, Tea, come reminisce with an old man for a little while. Is he as mischievous as you remember?"
"He still can't resist a challenge but I think I finally stumped him with a riddle along the way here. I can see that spark in his eye when he's scheming something, just like when we were kids, but he's gotten a little better at not pranking," she giggled, holding up two fingers with a bit of space between them, "but he's grown into a fine man. You should feel proud."
The elder nodded his head, releasing her as Mai departed with promise of returning with tea. She did not miss a beat while slipping through the doorway, spotting a familiar pair standing on either side of the door when she entered the hallway; Atem and Yugi on the left, Joseph and Tristan on the right. They had quieted when the door had opened but they struck up conversation once more when she passed with the door closed behind her. "Eavesdropping isn't always best," she softly called over her shoulder, giggling when each protested that they weren't. "Sure, sure."
They turned their attention back to the door once the woman had disappeared from sight.
"Tea, truly, who do you feel they take after most?"
Her finger tapped the armrest for a moment, her brows furrowing in deep thought. "I can't speak for Yugi, being as we haven't spent much time alone and I don't want to intrude on them catching up on lost time. Atem reminds me of the king in patience and trickery but has his mother's smile and stoic exterior."
"My son was quite the handful so I do agree with that. When his wife, the queen, would grace us with her smile it was as if the sun itself had come out to bless us with its glow. It was what drew him to the stoic woman who would sneak glances his way when no one was looking or the faint blushes that tinted her cheeks when he confessed his admiration for her. Yugi has a few of their father's qualities, always the curious one and a bit on the messy side, but overall could be his duplicate. Did you see the state of the suite that we were staying in? That was all him!"
"What?! I never would have guessed!" She laughed, about to raise a hand in habit to cover her smile but allowed it to fall once more when he shook his head. "I still honestly couldn't believe what I was seeing in that palace," Tea whispered, her azure gaze shifting to fall on the fire as a log popped loudly. "I honestly thought he was Yugi and I was furious at first because I thought it was reckless of him to go back to the palace but then I heard his voice and saw his eyes…I knew without a doubt who he was but Saint Petersburg is so dangerous and full of imposters that I didn't want to get my hopes up." Her expression became one of worry as she gazed into the fire. "I just hope they don't get so caught up in what they are supposed to be when they should be focusing on who they are as individuals."
The elder remained silent, watching the young woman from over his folded hands as the flickering firelight danced across her features. To think that the shy little servant girl his grandsons had played and spent time with would grow up into such a strong willed and steadfast being was not only astounding but worthy of anyone's admiration. She had saved his and Yugi's life by sneaking them into the servant passageways, the uprising of the citizens forcing herself and the eldest prince to take a different escape path, then to find out that she had kept the little trinket that was a piece of his treasured puzzle was all the more confirmation to her qualities; she could have sold it for a decent night's meal or a better roof over her head than the lacking accommodations that Atem had described to them. Tea had taken him under her wing immediately upon discovering him; food, clothing, protection, even comfort when his memory had begun to return. Just from the expression and admiration within his eldest grandson's words when speaking about her was enough to give away the hidden emotions and feelings that he held. It made the former ruler proud that such a fine woman, and family friend, had become the holder of the prince's heart.
"Solomon?"
He startled, finding the girl not in her seat but kneeling on the floor beside his own as she looked up at him with those bright cobalt eyes of hers. His hand rose off the armrest to settle atop of her head, just as it had when she was smaller, and flashed her a smile. "Don't mind this old timer," he soothed softly, gently petting her chocolate hair. "I was just lost in thought for a moment."
She blinked as he clapped suddenly, rising to stand as he drew her also to her feet. "What's up?"
"Please, call me what you used to."
Heat dusted her cheeks. "I-I can't do that, your highness! It's not proper!"
"Come on, now, humor an old man!"
With a sigh, she took his hand between her own and inhaled deeply through her nose. Surely just once wouldn't hurt. "G-pa King!" She buried her face in her hands as he laughed heartily, his arms quickly latching around her as she made to escape. "Gah, it's so embarrassing!"
Behind the closed door, five figures couldn't help but smile as they heard the pair fall into a pit of giggles and laughter when they bantered lightly back and forth. Their amusement though vanished to become guilt filled expressions when the door opened to reveal a young woman whose eyes shone brightly with amusement as she crossed her arms, the elder man visible in his chair howling with laughter when she fell into silence as they gathered her into a huddle-like embrace with her in the center.
"H-hey! What's gotten into you guys all of a sudden?!"
"Oh, nothing, just felt like hugging you!" Came the chorus of Yugi, Mai, Tristan, and Joseph.
Atem though remained silent as he patiently waited until they had released her to draw her against his being in a more personal embrace, though he kept her facing away from him so that she couldn't see his expression that was earning him knowing looks from those who saw it. The soft scent of peaches tickled his nose as he rested his forehead against her shoulder, tightening his hold on her when she relaxed, then released her slowly as Solomon called for everyone to stop shadowing the doorway and to enter where they could all converse more naturally. Instead of taking a seat, he moved to stand beside the chair that she returned to and offered her a small smile when she curiously glanced up at him.
"Since we have all of you here, I'd like to discuss the upcoming celebration that will announce of Atem's return to the family." Solomon accepted a steaming teacup from Mai and took a sip. "There will be a ball of unknown glamour that you will all be attending, as the family's way of saying thank you for returning our lost member, as well as offering each of you this small token of our appreciation."
Joseph and Tristan's jaws hit the floor when the blonde beauty handed each a small chest, a pile of currency within each that glittered brightly within the firelight. "Whoa! Now we can eat all we want!"
Yugi blinked in surprise when instead of accepting the gift or voicing thanks, the young brunette hung her head lowly with her hand resting upon it's lid. "Something wrong? We know we owe you much more than that-"
"No." Tea did not bother to open her chest and simply placed it upon the nearby table without a hint of hesitation. "I don't mean offense but I can't.
Understanding filled the elder ruler's gaze but it was quickly followed by concern. "I know that your life has been one battle after the next but it is alright to accept a gift from an old friend." Solomon took another sip from his cup then placed it on its nearby saucer so as it fix his gaze upon the young woman. "Don't think of it as a reward for finding him, think of it as us expressing our gratitude. You have earned it, Tea, so please accept it."
Each was farther driven into shock when the young woman picked up the chest and instead of opening it she twisted in her seat then placed it in front of Atem, who blinked in surprise as she used his hands to take hold of it. "Tea?"
"The orphanage treated you well and we had some help from those siblings, right?" She smiled warmly. "Why don't you give my share to them instead as thanks? Without them taking care you as a child and the siblings assisting with removing the curse I was under, we wouldn't be standing here right now." Her hands squeezed his. "Besides, I'm sure they'd be happy to hear that you made it home safely."
Amethyst met cobalt, finding them unwavering, and gave a curt nod of understanding. "Tea, your kindness is admirable. I shall personally see that they each receive a fair share."
Her hands slowly shifted away from his own, missing the warmth that his had given off, and settled to fold them within her lap with a light blush within her cheeks as she turned back to face the others. "A-anyway, about the giant party. What are we supposed to wear and what time should we be there?"
Solomon's wrinkled lips rose in unison as Yugi's did, a smirk raising Atem's as they shared a glance. "Leave all that to us, but for right now you need rest."
"It's creepy when the twins do it but then you throw in gramps and its just all sorts of weird!" Joseph exclaimed, causing all to break into laughter.
. . . .
Each day after passed in a blur for them all.
The mornings would start off with all present at the breakfast meal, laughing or conversing about what they wanted to accomplish during the daytime hours and how much they were looking forward to farther exploring the glittering streets of Paris once the sun had set. Though they all had their own agenda, the princes always ensured that they had time to share with each then took extra time for one particular person, a certain brunette haired woman who had relented to the command of Solomon to remain in bed until the doctor said she was fit once more. She had even been surprised by the visit of the three Ishtar siblings, who each voiced their objection to her gift then accepted them at her behest after much convincing. Joseph and Tristan made sure to stop by as well, though each time they did she couldn't help but comment about their increase in their increase fashion accessories or the tales of their shenanigans that they were getting up to since she wasn't there to stop them. Though it earned them a light scolding, their inner worries of their friend were put to rest when she responded with her feisty temperament that they had grown to know.
Though the days were full of visitors, her personal favorites wouldn't appear until the sun disappeared over the horizon. That was when a pair of princes would poke their heads in to check if she was awake still. Yugi would tell her endless stories of the day while Atem would calmly correct or add forgotten details. Once in a while a game would be brought out, which they would take turns playing with her so that she didn't grow bored when they became overcome by competitiveness. A few hours would pass this way with playful and bright smiles until the youngest would branch off, set within a routine that he would care for their elderly grandfather around this time so as to give the caretakers a break from the ornery old man, and departed with a wave that promised he would be back the next night.
That would leave the pair, alone, in what would be silence if not for the crackling fire that held off the growing chill now that winter had fully settled in. It was in these comfortable moments though that they would not resort to words but to soft touches or soft hums when one would catch the other looking their way. If not for the pleasant silence they were filled with the young woman coaching the prince on the several dances that he would be expected to know for the celebration. That would often render him exhausted, taking a moment to rest his head upon the bed beside her to relish as her fingers caressed his face with feather like touches.
One night it was just the eldest prince who appeared through the doorway, no one else entering after him when the door closed. It was a bit later than normal, which had made her worried but also understanding if they couldn't show, but relief had flooded her when the young man with amethyst eyes had appeared. She hummed softly when his hand found hers, their fingers entwining slowly as the heat from his digits seeped into her own, while she greeted him with a smile. "Hey, you, thought you'd never show up."
"I would never keep you waiting if it can be helped. There was much today that required all of our attentions so I hope you can forgive the late hour." Concern filled him when the covers shifted, the young woman beneath moving until she was sitting up and stretching. His hands rested upon her shoulders when she made to stand. "Not yet, Tea, the doctor has not said you are not fully recovered."
"But I'm bored with laying in bed all day while listening to everyone bustling around and doing things to prepare!"
He couldn't help but chuckle in slight amusement as her lower lip stuck out slightly. "Be that as it may, you must follow his instructions if you are to be well enough by then."
"It was only a bump on my head. It's not like I have the Black Plague or worse," she groaned, remaining upright despite his efforts to lower her back to the bed. "Oh, come on. I can't stay still anymore! I need to get up and move!" Cobalt lit up, earning a raised eyebrow from the prince. "Let's see how well you're doing with the lessons." Her hands rose when his lips parted, probably to object. "I promise to go back to bed once we're done and I'll stay there until the doctor says so."
Atem honestly couldn't blame her for feeling restless, frankly he and the others were surprised that she had lasted this long, but even though she was looking much better by the day it was important to follow the doctor's guidance. "Tea-" His words screeched to a halt, forming a lump in his throat as her expression became crestfallen. Resolve and logic flew out the window when she began to slowly return back to being buried beneath the multiple covers.
She knew he was looking out for her, they all were, but she was feeling a bit suffocated. Even the maids that had come in to change the bedding yesterday had insisted that the young woman remained within the chair they had sat her in then proceeded to call Mai when they discovered her attempted escape. The blonde had been amused but quickly grew serious when she found Tea teetering dangerously from the long skirt that threatened to trip her. Her reflexes were still shabby at best, not to mention her balance, so maybe she had hurt herself more than she thought. Maybe she should still in bed a little longer…
A flick of his wrists caused the heavy blankets to fall back towards the foot of the bed, earning a startled yelp from the young woman, and wrapped his arms around her petite waist so that she was standing beside the bed instead of laying within it. Her arms reflexively wrapped around his neck for balance sake when the cold floor met the bottoms of her bare feet but she was too focused on the chill that slipped down her spine to notice the rosy tint enter his cheeks. The ivory dress covering her being was a bit on the shorter side reaching her knees, he'd heard of her stumbling the other day, and though it was a plain underdressing it still seemed to make he seem radiant. His concern returned full force when she settled atop of his feet until they hobbled over to the carpet, feeling just how light she had become despite her healthy appetite and abundance of sleep, and placed a record of her choice upon the player once shedding his jacket and draping it over her shoulders when she shivered. "If I do this, then you must return to bed."
"I'll take it," she grinned, slipping off of the tops of his feet so that hers were on the carpet. "Now show me what you got."
They began to sway gently with the soft notes of the music that filled the air. To and fro they made their way across the room but the slow dance morphed into something more complicated when she asked how the preparations for his announcement were going.
A smile lifted her lips as he led her in a waltz. She could see him counting carefully in his head of the steady counts that corresponded with each step and gave his hand that held hers a squeeze to earn his attention, the amethyst eyes that had been unfocused gaining clarity as he blinked. "It wouldn't hurt to look at your partner," she lightly teased. "Hopefully I'm not so ugly that you can't even look my way."
"I would not think to look anywhere else but you, Tea."
Heat bloomed across her face that was not responsible for the nearby fireplace as she hurried to hide within the collar of his suit. His hold remained gentle on her, accepting all of her weight whenever her legs wobbled from the lack of her standing on them with ease, the soft scents of sandalwood and amber filling her nose that farther eased her muscles to relax. "Keep all that flirting energy pent up, don't use it all on me since you'll have plenty of girls fishing for some while they dance with you." She cleared her throat while leaning backwards when she was sure that the blush was gone from her face. "Speaking of which, you're not doing too shabby."
"All due to your teachings." He twirled her carefully then brought the young woman back within the solitude of his embrace when she squeaked a denial. "You have coached me the last several nights from your bed on the proper form one should have during this dance. It was not easy but you were patient with me and calmly led me step-by-step through the motions to where I am now." Amethyst met cobalt as he leaned backward while dipping her slightly, sincerity in his tone and gaze as his lips lifted into a smirk when he found her fair cheeks growing pink. "Why, Tea, is that a blush I see?" A chuckle rumbled within his chest when she bristled, becoming a laugh when she playfully pinched his cheeks. He however had not paid much attention to their location and the pair fell with a soft impact upon the bed, the brunette blinking up at the wild haired prince as he quickly moved to settle his weight upon bent arms so that he wasn't crushing her.
The bed sunk slightly due to their combined weight, creaking slightly, but neither paid it any mind as their gazes met. His apology was lost as the cobalts that were her eyes shone brightly in the firelight, the fairness of her skin seeming to glow as if she were an ethereal being who had fallen to earth from the heavens. She was just as entranced as he was, finding herself being reflected back within the millions of shards of amethyst that were above her as they glittered in the dancing flames that were casting shadows upon their beings. Surely the other could hear their pounding hearts.
Just as Tea's lips parted to speak, possibly to ask him forgiveness for distracting him, became an after thought as his head fell to rest upon her shoulder. Confusion filled her for a moment as he fell upon his side, arms wrapping to keep her close to his chest, then understanding filled her as his form trembled. "You see?" She soothed, one hand rising to pet the back of his head while the other rubbed his back in drawn out circles. "They missed you just a such as you did."
His hold tightened at her words. All that had transpired between her discovering him in the palace to the final showdown against the sorcerer came crashing down on him, all the emotions he had been holding off for the sake of his brother, grandfather, and friends rushed forth like a geyser the more her being enveloped his own. Each stroke of her fingers, breath that she took, was breaking down the walls of defenses that he'd put up brick by brick in hopes of stemming off the rush of emotions.
"Everyone is safe now," she whispered into his ear as her eyes drifted closed. "You, your grandfather and brother will all live out the rest of our days without fear of the curse. I'm so happy for you."
"Forgive me." He finally croaked after several seconds, scalding tears gathering in the corners of his eyes but he refused to allow them to fall even as she called his name softly.
Her arms tightened around him as he trembled again. "It's okay that you were scared, worried or even anxious, Atem, we all were." The regret and guilt that had been weighting heavily in her mind rushed to the forefront in a rush that nearly sent her spiraling into self loathe. "I'm the one who should be asking for your forgiveness, not you. All those horrible things I said-"
Fingers appearing against her lips prevented anything else from being voiced as his lips met the sensitive skin of her neck. A shiver slipped down her spine as they drifted upwards until they met the shell of her ear, the fingers falling away to brush along her jawline on their way upwards to bury themselves within her hair. Tears that she had long thought dried up came back full force, spilling down her cheeks as he adjusted his hold so that her head was the one resting against his chest as he whispered soothing words into her ear just as she had been moments ago.
Slowly, with each ticking second of the hand on the nearby clock, her sobs fell in volume until silence reigned once more. His hold on Tea loosened until she was resting back within the bed once more. The palm of his hand cupped her cheek while the other drew the covers up to her chin, taking care to tuck them around her being, and brushed his lips against her forehead. With one last glance towards the bed and a nod to the nearby maid who had appeared within the doorway, he slipped out the door and into the night. Paris, otherwise known as the City of Lovers, was buzzing with romantic energy with all the twinkling lights and glittering windows couldn't hope to compare to the joy he had found not just in the reunion of his family and the woman who had grown to become close to his heart. He would be sure to send the doctor in the morning; seeing her so motivated to get out of bed and wanting to move around again set his heart at ease knowing that she was regaining her strength from all that had happened. His lips lifted into a soft smile as he began walking towards the nearby inn where both grandfather and brother would be waiting for his return. "I would not be surprised in the slightest if she attempted to leave on her own to see the city by herself-" Words caught in his throat, almost causing him to miss a step. Tea wouldn't just up and leave…or would she?
. . . .
"I told you all to get out! The doctor needs to properly examine her but he can't with all of you staring at her!" Tea's fair cheeks were bright with embarrassment as the maid practically forced the small gathering of people out the door. Even Mai, the mistress and boss of the dwelling, had surprisingly been forced from the room. "For a full examination, you must remove your clothes." The blush in her cheeks intensified as the maid suddenly locked her hazel eyes upon her.
Behind the door, nearly every person's cheeks were dusted with pink as a loud exclamation was heard from their friend as the sound of clothing being thrown away filled the air. It was such a feminine sound, one that they'd never heard from the brunette before, that even the princes who had been pacing became rooted to the floor. The youngest twin hurried to take firm hold of his brother's arm when he made to approach the door, assuring him that the woman inside was not being harmed, then released his hold when receiving a nod.
"H-hey! That's not where I was injured!" A yelp sounded. "What are you doing?!"
"A full examination includes a checkup of this little area here."
"At least warn me when you're about to- Eeek! It's too cold!"
Atem, keeping a hand over the lower half of his face as he turned and faced the wall that was opposite the door, attempting to level his breathing while clenching his eyes shut. They did not remain closed for long due to the fact of a the other young men who were also attempting to remain unaffected quickly dispersed when another soft cry came from inside the room.
Mai, amused, sent most of them away until it was just the princes and herself. "No funny business, I mean it." Her finger rose to each of their noses, causing them to lean backwards by reflex, and she disappeared with a twirl of her skirt.
"I see you." Yugi chuckled, crossing his arms while regarding his older brother and earned a bristle. A knowing smirk raised his lips, which was rare being as he would showcase smiles not smirks, as he leaned against the wall. "Why don't we play a little game to pass the time? It would get your mind off of those dirty little thoughts you're having."
Amethyst eyes narrowed but he was not about to give his brother the satisfaction of a response. "What do you suggest?"
"A classic, best two/three, and all you need is your hand."
"Ah, so a game of rock-paper-scissors then." His brows furrowed. "What is the victor's spoils?"
A hand rose. "It's no fun if you know what you're playing for." Yugi clenched his hand into a fist, wiggling his eyebrows. "Whaddya say, chicken?"
Hook. Line. And sinker.
It took several minutes, what with them showing identical signs nearly ever throw, but it was as the door lock clicked that the youngest raised a fist to the air in victory as the older stared at his fingers that were in the form of scissors. Lilac shone brightly with glee as they were ushered inside by the maid who looked pleased with herself, casting his slightly brooding brother a grin, and approached the bed first. "Well? How'd it go?"
Tea's cheeks were still a bit pink but the simple ivory underdress had been replaced with a tea length one that was decorated with peach blossoms and a sash around her petite waist that matched her eyes, the sweetheart neckline accentuating her chest but not overly so as it hugged her upper torso then flared out with help of the underlying petticoat skirt. Cobalt met his gaze, then drifted to rest on the figure who was staring down at his hands with a questioning raise of her slender brow, then returned back to Yugi when the doctor's hands fell on her shoulders. "I've got five little words for you." Her lips rose into a sugary sweet smile. "Get. Me. Out. Of. Here."
"She is back to her full health, I'm happy to say." The doctor patted her shoulders than set about to clearing away the instruments that she had used for the examination with help of the maid.
"What's going on?" She tilted her head in Atem's direction when he hurried inside after hearing the doctor's statement. "Why were you just standing there for so long?"
Yugi smiled with self satisfaction as his older brother slowly explained that he had, at last, lost a game of chance. "Oh, that's right, I haven't said what we were playing for." His arm wrapped around Tea's shoulders, causing her to meet the side of his being as he grinned. "Looks like I get to take you out on the town first!"
"Wait, you're going to take me out? Like a date?" The second the word had left her lips, her cheeks darkened a few shades as she caught sight of Atem's sudden stiffness. Her finger appeared inches from Yugi's nose while shrugging off his arm. "Something tells me he wasn't told of what you were playing for. I thought you fancied yourself a fair player, Yugi, but I'm even more surprised that you actually beat him at something!" Tea's eyes were glittering with amusement as they met amethyst. "No offense or anything, it was just such a rare occurrence when we were kids that I can hardly believe it."
The eldest prince huffed, crossing his arms as if he were upset but the telltale glint in his eye was all the sign they needed that he too was entertained. "Be that as it may, a loss is a loss." His gaze passed to the doctor as he asked how soon she could go out, receiving the answer that was whenever she so chose, then returned to his younger twin. "She will be in your care then, Yugi, I know that you will be respectful but also ensure that she will be enjoying your 'date'." He chuckled lowly when their heads tilted. "I have nothing to worry about when it is the two of you, so there would be no reason for me to be jealous or concerned."
"So you're not worried, at all?" They chorused, both sharing a knowing glance when his own head tilted. Their hands met, fingers entwining. "What about this?"
His brow threatened to twitch. Yugi of all people knew of how he felt for the young woman but it was clear that the younger by two minutes was not going to let him off the hook so easily. "How cute."
"How about this?" Yugi's arm wrapped around her shoulders once more, biting his lip to stop himself from grinning like a fool when his supposed indifferent brother remained affected. A shadow had shifted within those gemstone eyes of his older twin though. This may be pushing the joke a bit too far but he had to do it not just for himself but for Tea as well. He drew her closer until their cheeks met. "Or this?"
Before Atem could voice that he was tired of this game or physically separate them, Tea beat him to the punch and smirked as she roughly pinched Yugi's cheek. "Serves you right," he chuckled. "A thing I have learned is that one should never cross a woman, especially when she happens to be one such as Tea."
"Try that again and it'll be your ear next time." She lightly threatened, releasing the skin between her fingers, then turned to face Atem fully. "Are you really okay with this?" Her breath caught as his fingers took a gentle hold of her wrist, bringing her flush against his being with a light tug that caused his lips to brush against her right temple as his arm wrapped around her.
"I trust you both, Tea, and only wish for you to enjoy your time with him as you explore the city." He pulled back after a few seconds, locking eyes on Yugi and twirled her until she was steadied by his younger counterpart's hands on her shoulders. "There are things that I must attend to, but do not worry. I shall return by nightfall so try not to overwhelm or tire her out by the time my turn arrives." Though he sent them off with an assuring nod, the heart in his chest clenched with worry as they disappeared from sight. He was a patient man, who bided his time for the perfect moment, so he was in no rush while thanking the doctor then departing from the home while smiling to himself when he caught sight of them walking with bright grins on their faces. If he had known the stakes they were playing for he certainly would have put forth every effort into reading his twin's body language, usually it would giveaway his next move, but he had been fair. "Tonight then, Tea," his hand reached into the right pocket to brush fingers against the little velvet box, "I look forward to it."
. . . .
The day passed with smiles and grins between the pair but it was when she was passed off to the one who was patiently awaiting her return that her heart began pounding a bit harder than normal. He had a carriage awaiting to take her away, quickly bundling her within a thick coat when she took the seat beside him, and offered her a warm smile as with a light crack of the whip the horses were off. Tea couldn't help but question his appearance, which earned a chuckle. "Yugi has been using a sort of…alternate identity when he is within the public eye. What better disguise for me to don if we are to enjoy our evening together?" Cobbled stone and the occasional trolley track caused it to sway or bounce but she was held steady by his gloved hands whenever a motion threatened to send her reeling.
"So what should I call you tonight?" A giggle rose up her throat, her eyes catching sight of a familiar band upon his wrist with a matching partner that was struggling to confine his wild hair. Besides the tri-toned locks being in a pony, which was oddly becoming of him, he was dressed in a simple suit she'd seen in one of the windows earlier; black, silver pinstripe stitching, cuffs, and the telltale clink of a chain gave away the pocket watch that was hidden within his clothing. Simple yet he made it seem like the best outfit that ever existed.
"The name he used was Yami," he leaned down so that his lips brushed her ear, "but I only want to hear you say my name ."
The young brunette shivered, though it wasn't from the cold as he retreated and caught sight of his smirk and darkened amethyst eyes. "You got it."
"So tell me, did you enjoy your 'date' with Yugi today?"
She grinned. "I haven't laughed that hard in such a long time that I thought one of my lungs was about to burst!" Her head fell to rest upon his shoulder, a rosy tint entering her cheeks. "Though we were having so much fun, I couldn't wait to see you."
A heavier heartbeat caused a wave of warmth to radiate from his core at her words. Though they had been spoken at barely above a whisper it was as if she had climbed to the top of the Eiffel Tower then proceeded to shout how she'd been looking forward to spending time with him. "I confess, it was the same for me."
Tea smiled, inwardly pleased and relieved to hear that she hadn't been the only one looking so forward to tonight. "So where are we going?"
"A secret." A laugh threatened to rise up his throat when her cheeks puffed slightly. "Come now, Tea, it would be no fun for me if I were to spoil what was planned." His fingers teased her chin, rising to tap the tip of her nose, then drew her into a one armed embrace so as to bury his face within her shoulder so that when that amused sound escaped his lips it was only she who could hear as she tried time and time again to get answers out of him. His head rose when the carriage came to a stop, a finger rising to wipe the stray droplet of moisture that had threatened to spill; looks like they had arrived. "We do not want to be late." Sliding from the seat, he drew her from the confines of the thick coat and tucked her against his side as he hurried her inside.
"Wait! Hold on!" Her coat practically disappeared from her shoulders, appearing alongside his own that was placed upon the entrance desk where a staff member greeted them with a smile. Deep wine red walls sped past her in a blur, her only guide was him, until they came to a halt within a secluded and private room with decorated curtains. Tea turned on her companion as he gestured for her to follow him through one of the curtains. "Would you just…tell me…" The breath caught in her chest as his hand gently took her own and she stepped through, cobalt eyes widening and shining with awe. Words escaped her as she bounced on the balls of her feet while gazing out at the theatre that surrounded them. "Oh, wow!" Her fingers fluttered almost nervously upon the polished wooden banister as she scanned the large space slowly, adrenaline pounding loudly through her veins as she spotted a stage with an orchestra pit that was beginning their warm up.
His lips lifted into a fond smile while watching her excitedly take in even the minuscule details of their surroundings. The innocence, genuine interest, and purity of her joy was priceless to him as was the glittering within her gaze as their eyes met. "Are you pleased, Tea?" Her answer was in the form of a fierce embrace, her arms snaking around his being to deliver a squeeze so strong that his chest protested slightly from it, but he cared little to its discomfort as the air filled with music and the lights dimmed. "The performance will be starting soon. We should take our seats."
During the entire performance, the young woman beside him never looked away from the stage for even a second. He'd ensured that they were in the best booth that would give her the full experience and view. Though the production was a world renowned play Atem could not bring himself to look anywhere else but at the azure eyed beauty beside him. Even when intermission was evident it took both of them a moment to realize the air was no longer filled with music nor were the dancers upon the stage. Before he could ask if she wanted something to snack on or a refreshment she had grabbed his hand with a firm grip as her eyes shone with determination.
"Can we go backstage?"
Amethyst blinked as cobalt filled with worry. "Tea?"
"One of the dancers, her ankle went the wrong way and I want to make sure she's okay." She suddenly withdrew from him, as if realizing what she was saying. The young dancer had noticed one of the performer's slipping upon one of the scattered decorations. Surely there would be a doctor tending to the injury. "Sorry, I shouldn't be sticking my nose into-" A muted yelp rose from between her lips as he took her hand and their footsteps echoed softly as they walked through the hallways. "Wait a minute! Forget it, I don't want us to get into trouble!"
"If you are correct then we, possibly the only ones who know of the injury, should do what we can to ensure that they are treated." His chin lifted as they came across a pair of guards who moved to intercept them, but they fell back the second he had lifted the left flap of his coat.
She couldn't see what was hidden but whatever it was earned them passage with every pair of security that they encountered until they came to the entryway that led backstage. They were just in time to approach the dancer who was about to step back on stage to continue the performance. "Wait, let me help you!"
The woman snatched her arm back with a string of a foreign language that was lost upon Tea but Atem was quick to intervene and explain that they were only there to assist aiding her. "Ya 'eak Engleesh?" Her pastel brown eyes met cobalt, earning a nod. "Why 'ou care? I don' know 'ou!"
"Because I'm a dancer too so I can't let you continue with an injury without at least tending to it." Tea took hold of her hand, paying no mind to the stage manager who came up to investigate. She would leave him to Atem for now. Her hands made the motion for fabric or gauze and pins, which earned questioning looks from the three, but she waved it away as the light dimmed in warning. There wasn't anymore time. The air filled with tearing cloth as she tore away the bottom two inches of her skirt hem, making the mental note to apologize to Mai later for it later, then ducked beneath the performer's large skirt much to the shock of each who was present.
Atem prevented any from approaching or retrieving her from beneath the bundles of fabric, his narrowed eyes daring any from even thinking of stopping his companion, and quickly offered his hand when the brunette's head appeared. She wore a victorious smile while asking him to explain she had wrapped the swollen ankle enough that the performer could stand on it without flinching. He quickly conveyed Tea's words to the surprised woman in the language she'd spoken earlier, then bristled when the stage manager reprimanded them for coming backstage. "Monsieur, one of your performers was injured but you were far too busy nursing the bottle hidden within your coat to notice that she needed assistance."
"It's okay," she whispered, lacing their fingers and giving him a light tug towards the way that they had come. "Let's go back to our seats." Her fingers gently squeezed his own when he remained unmoved, as if he wanted to retaliate against the man, but finally relented when she encouraged him to look her way as she gave another light tug. This time it was she who led the way back to their seats as the lights turned down low and the music rose in volume. Their hands remained together throughout the rest of the performance. "I gotta say, hearing you speak other languages is impressive." Tea turned in her seat as people began to filter out of the theatre, her eyes bright with amusement with a hint of something more shifting within their depths. "Can you do it again?"
"Nous allons maintenant passer au dîner." A smirk threatened to lift his lips as her fair cheeks dusted with pink. All he had said was "we shall move on towards dinner now" but French was called the most romantic language for good reason. His hand that was still holding her own brought it upwards so that the back of it would meet his lips, earning a shiver. "Are you ready to depart?" With a nod, she rose from the seat and was about to follow him from the booth when a call of her name came from somewhere.
Their attention shifted back to the stage as a roar rose from those who were still within the theatre, the woman who Tea had attended stepped towards the lip of the stage, hand over her eyes as though searching for something, then the smiled widely when she spotted the pair. Cobalt and amethyst widened as each member took a flower from one of the bouquets that had been thrown onto stage that were thrown upwards in their direction. A few of the flowers managed to reach them, falling upon or against their beings and wafting them with the soft scents of their petals. They chorused a thank you and the curtain dropped as another roar of applause filled the air. Not a second after the lights had returned to normal did they find themselves surrounded by the other members of the crew who were all wanting to express their thanks to the young brunette for noticing then taking care of their performer. Foreign languages and flowers she couldn't name were rained down on her as they bowed or shook her hands but the smile never left her face as the very performer she'd assisted embraced her tightly, whispering a broken thank you in her ear before retreating then disappearing from sight along with the rest of the crew.
The carriage was waiting for them when they managed to make it outside, the thick coat right where he had left it quickly finding its way around her being once more as they set off, but thankfully their destination wasn't too far off. He coaxed her from the carriage once more as her wide eyes caught sight of the large sign above their heads. "Tea, I am afraid you may catch pneumonia if you continue standing here with your mouth open," he chuckled while wrapping an arm around her shoulder to steer her towards the entrance. "Now let us go inside."
Her wide cobalt eyes locked on his as they entered the restaurant where their coats were taken and found herself being slid towards a table set for two that faced a widow where the glittering Eiffel Tower was visible. "Atem, why did you bring me to such a high end-" Tea was quick to silence herself by placing her hands against her mouth when several nearby diners cast her disapproving looks. Cheeks burning, her head hung slightly as the waiter who had appeared as if from thin air. "I-I'm sorry for the noise…"
Atem, who had taken his seat across from her, withheld the urge to lock each person who had stared with a glare of his own, focused upon the waiter as his hand found her own on the table's surface. He knew all too well of her sweet tooth but he had ensured that the establishment of choice would be capable of meeting any sort of appetite that she may have. A chuckle threatened to rise in his chest as she stared at him incredulously when he ordered for the both of them fluently then narrowed her gaze when the waiter departed.
"Okay, okay, when did you get so good at speaking French?" Her finger rose, pointing in his face.
"I have no idea what you mean," he feigned innocence, allowing his lips to lift in the corners as he tilted his head. "None of you ever inquired if I knew more than English and there was no need for me to use any other language during the journey."
Her jaw dropped. "So you've been able to speak it this entire time?"
"And several others."
"So your education wasn't completely lost on you?" She stuck out her tongue playfully when his brow twitched. Slender fingers gave his a squeeze. "At least you didn't lose all of your memory."
The heaviness within her voice was nearly enough to make his heart thump a little harder. His hands collected her own as he leaned closer to her so that there forehead were nearly touching. Their table was quite a bit smaller than the rest, being as it was one that wasn't normally in use, but it allowed them to be much closer than the others would have allowed. "Memories of the past are important but its those that we make with the people who we care about that will never fully fade away." His finger tapped the tip of her nose. "Such as the time when you were caught sneaking Yugi some deserts when he was being punished for not completing his lessons."
Heat flooded her face. If he remembered the, what else did he recall? "Oh, yeah? What about the time you fell asleep in the library and the test of the pages transferred to your face? They had you sit like a statue as they had to read what was on your skin so that they could replace the information lost in the book."
It was his turn to feel the touches of embarrassment. He would not be outdone though. "Perhaps I should remind you of when you had attempted to fix one of the king's torn attire pieces. No one noticed until he was wearing the ceremonial garb that a little tiny teddy bear patch had been used to cover up the hole." Atem nearly failed in hiding a laugh when her being stiffened. "Let us not forget the times that you would sneak into the queen's chambers to take care of her yourself when your mother could not or when you made the soup that was given to us when we all came down with colds." Amethyst twinkled as she fumbled for words. "I know it was you, Tea, you are a sneaky one but even you should have known that someone was catching onto your extra curricular activities."
"How?!" She squeaked, cringing in mortification as his expression became one of satisfaction. Her eyes narrowed. "You don't know it was me, you're just guessing."
"You were working by candlelight when you thought no one was up past the curfew hour when you patched farther's ceremonial mantle."
Cobalt narrowed. "That means you were out of bed and stalking me that first time but you were sick in bed with a horrible fever the night I made the soup. There's no way you could've known it was me."
He made show of picking up the fork and offering her a piece of the strawberry tart. "As for the soup, you had a bit too much onion but the seasonings of rosemary and thyme made up for it. The pieces of chicken and duck were tender so we hardly had to chew at all." The bite disappeared between her lips as they parted. "I woke as you approached my bed, Tea, that is how I knew it was you."
"So you've been watching me like a stalker, just like I said." She laughed nervously as he sputtered. Realization filled her as his expression remained calm, despite the motion of his throat signaling a swallow, but he made no move to deny what she'd said. Had he been watching her when she wasn't aware? If so, how long? "Atem, why aren't you saying anything?"
His shoulders rose with an inhale. "There is nothing to deny, Tea, actions speak louder than words after all."
It was as if the ground had fallen away beneath her feet at his words, their hands slowly separating as he expressed thanks to the waiter as their order was placed upon the table, then returned his gaze to the her once more. She'd been aware of her feelings ever since they were young; Yugi was like the brother she never had, making her nearly completely forget that she was an only child with his antics and never ending energy…Atem, on the other hand, had always treated her differently than the other servant children, as if he favored her by gifting little candies or sweets and had even encouraged her to spend time with the royal family as her mother had. Tea had dismissed those assumptions she'd once had about the eldest prince, for she was a lowly peasant girl from a poor family, there was no possible way that a noble would even think to marry someone like her. Pain seared through her chest as she couldn't bring herself to look away from his gaze as he asked which she would like to try first. Her hands moved the delicate and beautiful deserts towards the side while shaking her head. "What are you saying?" All of those fantasy filled wishes and dreams she'd once had came rushing back to her, mingling with the swirling emotions that she now harbored, but she kept her tone level and facial expression neutral. "We don't live in a fairy tale, Atem, I've come to terms with it ever since I was a little girl. The knight and prince belong with a princess, not a lowly peasant girl who had no dowry."
His hands wanted to rise, itching to reach out to her as she picked up her fork, but they remained where they were as her gaze drifted away from his own. The sadness within those cobalt eyes of hers remained no matter what soft spoken word he chose to speak so instead they settled on tasting each of the dishes in turn until each small plate had been cleaned. The carriage ride back to Mai's residence was spent in heavy silence, the little box burning a hole in his pocket, but he couldn't bring himself to reveal it. Not when her mood was so downcast that the cloudy sky above their heads seemed clear. He couldn't part ways knowing she was heavy hearted so he escorted through the front door all the way to her appointed room. His hand appeared on the door just before she could close it and followed her inside much to her surprise.
"What are you doing?" Her eyes widened slightly when the door clicked shut behind him and trembled as he began taking steps towards her, those gemstone eyes of his never wavering from her own. "Atem-" Panic gave way to bliss as he suddenly collected her against his chest, his lips meeting the side of her neck as her hands fell to rest upon his chest. A sigh slipped between her lips as his hands removed the heavy coat from her shoulders to fall to the floor as they took a step backwards, the heat of the nearby fireplace failing to compare to that which was coming off of the man who was embracing her.
Another step was taken as her hands helped his own coat to fall to the floor.
Darkened amethyst met shadowed cobalt as their knees met the bed frame, nearly causing them to stumble, but the brunette gave no indication that she wanted him to stop. He rested her backwards upon the duvet, nearly grunting in surprise when she took hold of his hand and gave a yank that caused him to fall beside her, and felt the blood in his veins heat as her feather soft lips met the shell of his ear. The hum within his chest grew into a guttural groan as she drifted down until they found the junction of neck and shoulder where the collar of his shirt was pulled away to allow her more room. His eyes opened in that moment, realizing the manner of how she was showing him with affection, and enveloped her within a tight embrace; she'd been worshiping him as if he were a higher being.
"Is something wrong?"
The heart in his chest clenched at her hesitation. Here was a young woman born to a less fortunate family who were servants of the royal line and had lost everything she ever cared for during the rebellion until there was nothing left yet she shone brighter than any diamond that was showcased in the shops he had visited. Knowing that she felt so unworthy of his affection and undeserving of her own happiness was heartbreaking. "Tea, what do you truly want?"
She blinked as he pulled away, their foreheads meeting as his now serious gaze bore into her own. Where had that come from? "Atem-"
"Please answer me."
"I want to dance on a stage." Embarrassment threatened to break their sight but his hand rising to keep her head in place prevented it. It was so warm and the gentleness of his fingers brushing against her skin were causing her heart to beat faster with each caress. "Not in a lounge or small festival, I want to do out into the world and find the stage where I am meant to dance on."
All tension and suspense fell away from his being at her words. "Wherever your heart leads you, Tea, know that I am always supporting you." His head bent so that his lips met the space between her eyes.
The door opened with a bang, causing the pair to suddenly jump to their feet as in stormed a furious Mai who was attempting to pummel a retreating Joseph and Tristan who quickly used their female friend as a shield, each blaming the other for whatever misunderstanding or event that had earned them the wrath of the golden haired beauty. Tea though was not amused in the slightest. "Both of you sit down," her hands took hold of a shoulder of each, forcing them downwards towards the ground, "and apologize this instant! I know it's been you two who have been sneaking into the kitchen and begging for extra portions when dinner was served hours ago!" Her finger tip appeared inches from each of their noses when they started to deny the accusation. "Don't bother, I not only saw you two last night in the act but the three maids who have been bringing the food to your rooms confessed to me earlier today when I asked why they were portioning out more food then storing them away!"
"You're no fun!"
She stuck out her tongue. "I'm not your mother and but I am your sister from another mister. Fess up already and take your punishment like real men by her hand or mine." A malicious grin lifted her lips, earning shivers from both the culprits and the other two whose eyes widened as hers shone brightly with ill intent. "The choice is yours."
. . . .
The next day came and went in a flash of preparation for the celebration until nightfall where a group of elegantly dressed individuals were seen allowed entrance into a secluded room. "Well, don't you two look fancy." Mai nodded in approval as the small group entered the extravagant space though it was secluded off from the rest of the ballroom that was now bustling with music and conversation. "A pair of fine princes indeed!"
Both were dressed in similar suits, Atem in a dark violet suit with a white button up underneath while Yugi was in a lavender one, black pointed shoes that shone brightly with fresh polish, wild hair still in place, and both were accentuated with the touches of gold upon the cuffs and buttons. They truly were the definitions of a handsome pair of brothers as they, in unison, tugged at the tight clothing with twin expressions of dislike.
"Quit that, both of you." Solomon appeared as if from nowhere, causing the group to slightly jump. There was a knowing glint within his eye as his gaze passed over each member of the group, inhaling through his nose for a moment before fixing a sympathetic look upon his grandsons. There was a member missing and neither had yet to pick up on it? This would not do. "I cannot tell you both how proud I am to see you all grown up but I can't help but wonder if this is what you truly want."
Mai, sensing a private discussion about to begin, ushered the other two towards the nearby buffet table in hopes of distracting them with the elaborate food spread but then ducked with them behind one of the large curtains writhing earshot. She'd wondered the same thing as of late with how the princes were coping with the festivities and preparations; Yugi had slacked off in some cases when the pressure had gotten too much but then there was Atem who had often run himself into the ground but continued moving or denying that he himself was reaching his limit. One twin was expressively loud, the other was stoically silent.
Yugi glanced to his older brother, earning a slight shake of his head that confirmed he wasn't sure what brought up this subject. "Grandpa, what are you talking about? We're a family and together is where we belong."
"Is that so?" The weathered elder lifted the curtain slightly so that the gathering guests could be seen, each dressed in the highest fashion available currently. "When you look out there, boys, what do you see?"
"People, musicians, fancy clothes…" Yugi shrugged.
Atem's head tilted slightly while taking a quick survey of the room. "Diplomats, allies, perhaps a few tenants…"
They blinked as the curtain was allowed to close and were gestured to follow Solomon into one of the small adjacent rooms. "I see that I may have to spell it out for you." He came to a stop before one of the tables that held three pillows; each held a crown that was a symbol of their heritage and right to the noble family line. Each glittered brilliantly in the light as he carefully lifted the first, his own, and placed it upon his head while making a show of how heavy it was. "I confess, even for me this thing is sometimes too heavy and cost me a bit more than I cared for." Solomon walked to stand on the opposite end of the table, encouraging them to bow their heads in turn so he could place theirs. "When you wear these, what do you feel?"
The eldest, who was most familiar with the weight of the title, was unable to see where this was going. "Grandfather, though it is a burden to some, we are the only ones who can. We are the sole heirs to the family line and as such-"
"But you should not let duty get in the way of your happiness." Solomon interjected, his tone growing firm when they both made to voice their opinions. "I want you both to really look at yourselves, Yugi and Atem, are you true to who you are when you wear those crowns?"
"Though we must abide by the expectations and rules that come with us being who we are, it will not stop us from accomplishing what we wish to do."
"Grandpa, you're not making any sense."
His hands lightly impacted against the back of each of their heads. "Maybe that'll teach you to think outside the box and look at questions from a different angle." He fixated each with a pointed stare. "Tea was right when we spoke the other day, you're merely focusing on 'what' you are, not 'who'. I cannot picture either of you being happy with this lifestyle. The two of you may be selfless but I know for certain that neither of you are stupid. What do you hope that those pieces of metal and glittering stones will give you, hm? The family name is as dead as my ancestors so do not let it stop you now from pursuing what could possibly be the path that leads to your destinies. I'm not sure how much more I need to spell out but you, Atem, have quite the predicament on your hands."
Amethyst blinked. Why was he being singled out and why was their grandfather expressing so much interest in all of this? His breath caught as understanding flooded him. "I will not allow title or crown stop me from pursuing a life with Tea, grandfather, surely you would have thought that much at least."
"Oh really?"
Yugi's eyes widened when for an answer, his elder brother procured a small velvet box from one of his pockets then opened to reveal a delicate silver band with vines of gold that were braided around it, the smallest of flowers glittering with rainbow filled stones in its center. "Oh, wow, she's going to love that!"
Realization crashed down on them suddenly, both their gazes locking on one anther then upon their grandfather who now wore an expression of seriousness.
"I am surprised that neither of you noticed a certain someone is missing from tonight's scene. The both of you once described to me that she was the sister you've never had and feel as though you can fully relax when you were with her but now that has changed fr you, Atem, she has become something far more important to you. You have choices to make tonight, you two, I suggest you take some time and think carefully of what you truly want in your lives." Solomon didn't spare another word or look as he slipped past them and closed the door behind himself. His weathered gaze met the mauve eyed woman's who had been waiting patiently outside for someone to appear. Wrinkled lips rose into a smile. "What you want to bet that they are sneaking out the window as we speak?"
Mai chuckled, accepting his offered arm. "You'd win that one."
"Where did those two that were with you wander off?"
"They suddenly had somewhere else to be."
. . . .
The boat rocked softly as it drifted lazily through the canal, the lights from the nearby streets and within the cabin illuminating a figure who stepped up to the bow with a shiver. Large flakes of white were falling from the darkening sky above her, the occasional car or carriage passing caused light to fall over them but it was the breeze that swept through which caused them to stare at the clusters which had succeeded in meeting their fair skin. "I really hate snow," a feminine voice whispered, a pair of fair hands rubbing together as they appeared from the confines of the heavy cloak covering her figure. "Maybe I'll go south this time. Somewhere with lots of sun and little snow." She turned slightly when a few of the crew members came upon deck, speaking loudly and cheering as a few fireworks lit up the sky above them.
"Did you hear?"
"What gossip did you pick up this time?"
"The lost prince is going to make an appearance tonight!"
"Now I know you've been drinkin' again."
A soft smile tugged on her lips but she remained quiet while turning back to face forward. It was where they belonged, those two, and she'd seen the expressions upon her friends's faces during their stay. Joseph and Tristan had struggled, just as she had, with poverty so the joy they've found in Paris was not something she was going to take away. They deserved this.
Her mother's song came to her just then, as if beckoned to the forefront of her mind by the nervous beating of the heart in her chest, and the soft hum that had started grew. "People always say life is full of choices…" she softly sang, eyes closing as a breeze tickled her face. "…no one ever mentions fear…
"…Dancing bears…" A voice came from somewhere in the night to join hers, creating a duet with their own song; they were different but merged together effortlessly. "…painted wings…"
"…One step at a time, one hope then another…"
"…Horses prance through a silver storm…"
"…who knows where this road may go…"
"…and a song someone sings…"
"…on to find my future…once upon a December…"
She swallowed the lump in her throat as tears burned the backs of her eyes, emotions swirling within signaling the end of the song as memories of both mother and the man with amethyst eyes swam before her eyes. He was where he was needed, with his family and as the crown holder to a family line once thought snuffed out by the hands of a sorcerer who had manipulated the empire's subjects to turn them against their own rulers. The royal family could return to their former glory with his guidance. "Sorry, Atem, I guess fate had something else in store for you."
"Then I object that fate!"
Wide cobalt rose to search the streets on either side of the canal just before the boat entered the shadow of an archway. Had she imagined seeing him? He should be at the party getting ready for the big announcement, not here of all places nearing the midnight hour with a snow front on the way. She could have sworn she'd heard his voice, it was unmistakable for her, but maybe she was finally starting to lose a few marbles. Even if he wasn't really there it was nice recalling the memories that they'd shared together.
An impact on the boat caused her head to swivel towards the back end as shouts rose from the crew. They questioned her on the appearance of four trunks, each different in size and colors, but she'd never seen them before so Tea shook her head. Another impact, causing the small boat to dip slightly from the additional weight, her eyes narrowing as she spotted something moving near the bow where she had just been standing. This was starting to raise the hairs across her being. Was someone about to rob or hijack the boat?
"Tea!"
The nose of the boat appeared out of the shadow of the arching bridge above her head as the call of her name directed the young woman's gaze upwards in time to see someone leap over the stone banister. Time stalled as she found herself staring up into a pair of gemstone amethyst eyes that glittered almost blindingly in the nearby lights, so many emotions flooding her being in that split second that she was rendered immobile when he seemed to hover above her. The falling snow, twinkling lights, even the faint sounds of the water canal faded away until all that was left was the prince who she had found in a ruined palace who was reaching for her. There looked to be a thin sheen of sweat on his brow, as if he'd been running to catch up with the boat, but that wasn't possible…was it?
It was the perfect opportunity for him to land lightly upon the boat's deck and sweep her up into his arms. She was shivering slightly, probably from the cold, but the trembling of her figure ebbed away the longer he held her against his chest. "I found you," he gasped into her ear as her arms wrapped around him, his being rising and falling with the quick breaths he took. "And just in time."
"A-Atem?!" Her eyes swam with tears as she forced herself away from his being despite her want to stay within the sanctuary that she'd discovered within his embrace so that their gazes could meet. "What are you doing here? You're supposed to be at the celebration!"
"There was a little change of plans."
She yelped as Yugi popped up beside them, his signature grin in place as he wrapped an arm around her shoulders while Joseph and Tristan appeared from over the boat's banister. They had attempted to follow Atem when he jumped but they had landed up almost too short to make it. "You too?!"
Yugi, seeing the darkening gaze of his elder brother, wisely ushered them towards the cabin so that accommodations could be made for the last minute passengers that were going to be joining the crew on their journey. "You two better come with me."
"No, wait! I don't understand!" The azure eyed woman looked from one to the other in desperation. "Would someone please tell me why you're all here and how you even found me?!" Her breath caught as a familiar hand fell over her eyes, one that was warm and filled her senses with the scent of sandalwood. It was only them left upon the bow when it fell away after a few seconds. The tears burning the backs of her eyes spilled as he spun her around so that they were facing when the boat began to approach the next arched bridge.
His expression was unreadable as he released his hold on her shoulders to cross his arms, a clear indication that he was upset with her. "Before I answer any of your questions, Tea, I wish for you to answer mine."
Each fine hair across her being stood upright at the serious and subtle warning in his tone when he spoke. She'd only heard him use that voice against an adversary or someone who had done him wrong. Then again, on second thought, she felt it was well deserved. "I didn't belong there, Atem, you saw how those people looked at me." Her arms wrapped around herself. "At the restaurant, they looked as me as though I was some dirty stray animal that had wandered in off the street and was begging for scraps. I can't take their stares or whispered words. That world isn't for me." Cobalt met amethyst. "You can put a dress on a chimp but that doesn't make it a human."
Atem's head tilted, unable to contain his amusement at her choice of words. "If you are insinuating that you are in place of the chimpanzee, then I beg to differ. Although if that is how you truly see yourself, that is quite the picture you have painted."
Heat flared within her cheeks. "That wasn't what you were going to ask me?"
"No."
"Or why I'm here?"
"This is the boat that leads to the nearest port so I assume you are planning to board one upon arriving there."
Her brows rose. "Are you upset because I didn't stay for the celebration?"
"Partially, but I had not planned to stay for the entire thing myself." he shrugged."
Tea took a hesitant step towards him, her expression full of worry. "Did something happen?"
His arms moved too fast for her to see that drew her back against his being in a tight embrace, the heat in her cheeks spreading throughout her body as his lips met her forehead. "A certain someone went missing before I could ask her the most important question a man could ever voice to the woman they love most."
"But what about your grandfather?"
"Mai has agreed to take him in and has prepared to move him somewhere more favorable in weather for his health, and as you can guess Yugi has decided to tag along with us." I will always my family, Tea, but I cannot live my life without you in it. I am prepared to follow you wherever you go because I am not ready for our journey to be over quite yet." His nose brushed against her own when moisture gathered within the corners of her eyes as she blinked up at him. "It is my turn to support you as you pursue your dream but I want us to be more than reunited childhood friends who harbored secret feelings for the other. I want us to journey together as partners this time," he whispered, a hand rising to brush a bent knuckle beneath her right eye to catch a droplet that was on the verge of falling, "I have loved you long before I even realized what the word fully meant, Tea, and I believe that fate brought me to you not solely for you to lead me home but for us to find a future together."
She was sure that her soul had risen out of her body to levitate for several seconds at his words. Every whisper, touch, laugh, smile, even the tears they had shed together were the most precious things to her. But could someone like her really deserve what he was offering? "Atem, you're a prince-"
"The time for monarchs and nobility have ended. I am only a man now, one who is asking for the hand of the woman I care most for." His hand that had shifted toward the side of her neck shifted behind to tangle within chocolate locks as her arms rose to wrap around his neck, the warm clouds of their breaths intermixing as their upper torsos brushed. "Will you accept me, Tea?"
Her answer as in the form of a choked sob and a giggle as her head bobbed in a nod.
As the boat entered the shadow of the archway bridge, he dropped to one knee, amethyst locking on wide cobalt as her hands flew to her mouth when he revealed a small object from his pocket.
As the boat exited the shadow of the archway bridge, a sparkle shone brightly from the place on her finger sourcing from the glittering ring that he had placed upon it.
The pair were suddenly aware of the pairs of eyes that were locked upon them, both spotting their companions a short distance away who looked as though each were about to explode. "We see you." Their lips lifted into a grin as they shared a glance, but neither deterred or sent away the figures who approached with words of congratulations. Amethyst and cobalt met once more as a firework exploded in the sky, signaling that the New Year hour was approaching with the accompaniment of the nearby cathedral bells, the falling snow glittering like clusters of diamond dust clouds as their foreheads met. Gravity and instinct led their heads to come closer, noses brushing as their eyes became lidded, but just before their lips could touch they spared a glance at the audience they couldn't see. "And thank you for joining us on our journey."
Together, their hands rose in unison as their lips lifted into smirks. Their hands caused darkness to obscure your vision for a moment but it fell away as the final midnight toll as the hands fell away to reveal the pair's silhouettes sharing a kiss when the sky above their heads exploded with color.
Thank you all for coming along for the ride! I'd love to hear your input with a review!