Unheard Love

by Growing Pain

[Seto x Jou] Seto does not know what to do when love conquers his heart, and to his enemy nevertheless. The fact that Jou seems to be everywhere only makes it worse.

19. Alarm your defences

Disclaimer: Do I own? Why yes. In another life maybe. But not this one. No, definietly not. -sigh-

Warning: Neurotic and sleep deprived Seto, affectionate Jou, freaked out and plotting Mokuba, bad writing, cursings, longer chapter than last time, idiotic story, male on male love, touchings etc

Note: Now, in my last chapter I cut down the length. There were actually some people who went against that, saying they wanted it longer. And some want it shorter. Therefore, in this chapter, I did not care of the length (I did not know which side to "pick" so to speak) and simply wrote. As expected, it's longer than the last chapter. Load up with some candy will ya. And guess what? I'm actually content with this chapter! -gasp-

Oh yeah, I might mention. Remember that Jounouchi is scared of ghosts (this has been mentioned earlier in the story. It will resurface once more. Just keep this information in the back of your minds).

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Unheard Love
Chapter 19

by Growing Pain

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The day could not have passed by any slower. Annoying teachers and students still existed. Some continued in trying to make a good impression on him, since it was his first day and all. Needless to say, none succeeded. As expected, of course. Finally, the day had come to an end, and he only hoped they'd behave more aloof towards him tomorrow.

He had, after his encounter with two members of the nerd squad on his lunch break shared with Jounouchi, called the principal of his old school and managed to get the blond free from detention today. Which he almost wanted to comment bitterly on to his brother for making him do such a thing. The fact that Seto made sure the principal was to wipe away all other detentions Jounouchi had, or would receive, were however to be forgotten to him, denying if ever asked.

Not that Jounouchi would ever figure out such a thing. He'd probably think the teachers were being nice so close to graduation or something along those lines.

He felt the vehicle slowing down, signalling they were reaching their destination. His eyes looked up from the computer screen as it stopped, seeing Jounouchi standing a few meters away, talking to his friends. For a second he was greatly worried he had invited them along. But that soon died as he saw him wave them goodbye as he sprinted to the limousine and opened the door. Even though that wasn't necessary, seeing as the chauffeur was going to hold the door open. Stupid fool. He had no knowledge of etiquette.

"Hi Kaiba!" A cheerful voice greeted as the door slammed shut. His blue eyes stared with indifference at the energetic man. Before he knew it, the laptop was taken by the blond, put aside. Instead Jounouchi sat on his lap, as if switching place with the electronic, supported by his knees. At first when he had so evilly been ripped from his computer, he had indented to scold the blond. But, seeing as this exchange was rather nice, he didn't comment. Though he did give a minor glare, thinking it'd probably be best to not appear like the love fool that he was. "Missed me?" Katsuya asked, grinning, as he placed his hands on the brunet's shoulders, pushing him against his seat. The blond's head followed closer, appearing just as cheerful as before. Seto snorted.

"It's only been a few hours." He explained with a firm tone.

"That much, huh?" The blond teased. "Sooo, where are you taking me?" Katsuya asked, looking quite excited. Seto smirked, knowing that preparing his little brother for a date probably wouldn't be what the other expected.

"Don't get your hopes up or you'll find yourself quite disappointed." He warned teasingly, and found himself highly amused by the confused expression that followed with it.

"Eh? Why?"

"That's for you to find out later." He stated, pushing him off to the other side of the seat while taking back his laptop, attempting to go back to work.

"You're not going to kill me, are you?" Katsuya asked with a chuckle. Seto paused from his typing, appearing to think.

"No, not today." He stated calmly before reforming to his ever-changing typing.

"Sweet as always. Like a lemon." Jounouchi said with a minor glare. "Whatever. I've got a book to read, so if you don't mind, I'll be reading it." He stated nonchalantly as he took out a book from his bag. He then made himself comfortable, taking off his shoes, bringing up his legs whilst resting on the brunet's shoulder before starting the process of taking in the words. Seto glared at Jounouchi for the contact, but he was only given a lopsided smile before being ignored.

"Behind in school?" Kaiba asked casually.

"None of your business."

"That serious? Hm, you never can take care of yourself properly, can you?"

"Can too! And I'm not behind! The book report isn't until Monday!" Katsuya said proudly, trying to read at the same time.

"So how far have you gotten?"

"Um…Three lines?" The brunet snorted softly, amused.

"No…not behind at all…" He replied sarcastically.

"Hey, listen here moneybags! Just because I don't want to read a stupid story doesn't mean I have to be behind or anything!"

And the bicker continued onwards, with the occasional stop for simple silence and temporary peace, until they reached his new mansion. Noticing they had stopped, Kaiba swiftly saved all his changes on the computer before closing it and putting it in his briefcase. Jounouchi put his book carelessly in his bag, not even bothering to mark which page he was on. Seto sighed mentally but didn't comment. As they exited the limousine Katsuya made a sound of awe, staring at the mansion.

"Whoa, where are we?"

"Hm, I take it you like it then." Seto stated, referring to the mansion.

"Well, yeah. Think of all the food that could be in there!"

"Hmpf, you and your-"

"Seto! You're late!" Mokuba's panicked voice cried out as the young teenager walked out from the entrance door. The brunet, semi worried over the behaviour, walked up to him, followed closely by the blond.

"Uh, Kaiba, what's Mokuba doing here?"

"We live here." Seto explained shortly, though his eyes solely focused on his sibling.

"Wha-!"

"Mokuba, has something happened?" Kaiba asked as indifferent as he could.

"I don't know what to do! All my clothes seems so boring and casual! I don't know what to wear! And I want to cut my hair! What if it bothers her? Is it too long? And should I eat now so I don't act like Jou when the food comes? And -"

"Hey! Watch it, kid!" The blond warned, though not understanding what the conversation was about. Seto found himself being quite disappointed in Mokuba's reason for panic. All this worrying over a simple date. Hmpf.

"Mokuba, it's only a date." He stated calmly.

"Only a date? Only a date! Seto! This is the biggest moment of my life!" Mokuba exaggerated, most likely from anxiety. This didn't make the CEO feel better though, afraid his brother might've lost his mind. Dates were not something to be valued.

"The kid's got a date?" Jounouchi asked the CEO, confusion written on his face.

"And I have no idea what to wear!" Mokuba added to his brother.

"Well, you've got Jounouchi. Use him all you want." Seto said, trying not to sound bitter over it.

"Eh? What am I going to do?" Katsuya asked, still confused, as he scratched the back of his head.

"What? Seto hasn't told you?"

"Told me what?" Katsuya asked, even more confused. Kaiba was surprised Jounouchi's mind hadn't overloaded by now.

"Seto! Why didn't you tell him!" Mokuba asked, outraged. The brunet now regretted he didn't, seeing his brother's face.

"You wanted him here, not me." He stated with a cold look. His brother gave one back, adding a glare to it as well.

"Oh, really mature." Mokuba replied with folded arms to show just how mad he was.

"Hey! What's going on!"

"I've got a date today. And you're the only one Seto accepts that has dating experience as well. And I could really use some help!" Mokuba declared. Seto stared with no interest at the blond, seeing as his brother did as well. Katsuya's face seemed to lighten up at the mentioning of being needed.

"Well, look no more!" The blond exclaimed dramatically. "Katsuya Jounouchi will save you in the world of love!" He added proudly. Both Kaiba's reacted with silence, staring disbelievingly at him with a raised eyebrow each.

"Eh…okay." Mokuba managed to voice out.

"Are you sure you still want his assistance?" Seto asked mockingly, adding in a teasing smirk while still looking at the blond.

"Hey! Back off Kaiba!" Katsuya said, protecting his dignity.

"Alright alright, calm down. Let's go inside. We need to find me an outfit!" Mokuba declared, taking his brother's hand as he dominantly led him inside. Jounouchi followed suit, and everyone eventually ending up in the younger Kaiba's bedroom where amounts of clothing items laid on the floor. Mokuba picked up some before throwing them away almost neurotically, ranting about how everything was wrong.

"Dude, he's like a girl that's going to a date or something." Jounouchi commented jokingly. The CEO, who wasn't too fond of such comparisons with his brother involved, glared down at the blond, who immediately regretted his words, laughing nervously as he slowly stepped away.

"So which one's the best?" Mokuba asked, finished with his ranting.

"Um…who cares. Just pick one." Jounouchi shrugged off. The advise wasn't appreciated.

"What!"

"Take whatever you're comfortable in." Seto suggested, trying to calm his brother down. If Mokuba were to act like this with every date, then he better consult him into living a solitary life. This was too much to handle.

"But, I'm comfortable in all of my clothes!" The raven-haired boy said.

"Just wear what you like. Don't stress it." Jounouchi shrugged off as he decided to sit down on the younger Kaiba's bed Indian style. Seto casually leaned against the wall, looking as stoic as ever.

"What if it's totally wrong? What if she doesn't like it?"

"Who cares? She should be glad she's even allowed to date a Kaiba." Seto snorted off, smirking afterwards. Jounouchi snorted at the brunet.

"Narcissist." He insulted with a lopsided smile.

"Like you're not."

"Just tell me what I should wear!" Mokuba piped in, not wanting to hear any discussion other than those that concerned his current situation.

"That sweater and those jeans." Jounouchi pointed. Kaiba suspected it to be a completely made up decision in a matter of seconds without sparing details such as colour coordination. But, luckily, Mokuba seemed rather pleased with the answer. It was with a relieved mental sigh that Seto exited the bedroom, Jounouchi right behind, to go down to the kitchen. Apparently, Mokuba had questions he wished to ask. The brunet was dreading it already.

So there they sat, the brunet and the blond. Jounouchi was currently eating sandwiches, having asked for permission before of course. Seto tapped his finger, scolding himself for not doing anything productive at the current moment. But he didn't leave to attain his laptop, just in case Mokuba would return before him. And there was no need to make him even more upset at the moment if he would discover him gone before he had came back. So, he waited impatiently.

Damn the fact that he had a date. He should've said no.

"You want some?" Jounouchi offered. Blue eyes glanced with a bored look.

"No."

"Oh okay." And with that, he kept on eating. It didn't stop him from talking though. "So why did you let him ask her out?" He asked while chewing. Kaiba took this opportunity to look elsewhere. Granted, he had feelings for the man on the other side of the table, but it was still unattractive to see him eat and talk. Besides, he was taught up with manners, unlike that fool.

"I didn't. She asked him." He stated, trying to sound cold when he in fact was bitter and grumpy.

"She did? Whoa, she must be pretty into him then!" The blond said encouragingly with a smile.

"That's not helping."

"Don't worry. He'll be fine." He shrugged off.

"Hmpf."

"It's just a date." Jounouchi reminded with a smile. Kaiba glared at him like the fool he was.

"Just? Hmpf. I think not. It starts off with one. Then two, then three, and all of a sudden he turns into a ladies man!"

"Or maybe just one lady's man."

"He shouldn't be allowed to date." Kaiba muttered, returning to scolding himself.

"Yes he should."

"Hypocrite. If this was Shizuka you'd say the same."

"But that's because guys are after different things than girls! They want sex! Sex!" He exclaimed as if it was the biggest news ever. Blue eyes looked without care at the blond.

"Well, this girl might want it too."

"They're thirteen!"

"Exactly! The time when they experiment!" Kaiba declared to the unknowing one.

"Oh God, I pity Mokuba…" Jounouchi muttered as he softly shook his head, staring down at the table. Seto gave him a glare before worrying once more. He needn't do that for too long however, since his brother soon entered the kitchen, appearing less panicked by now. Seto approved of the change.

"So where are you taking her?" Jounouchi asked, having stopped eating now, miraculously.

"We're going to a movie and dinner."

"Ah, you're doing it Old School." Jounouchi commented, in which Mokuba widened his eyes.

"Why? Is there something wrong with it?" Mokuba asked worriedly. A sharp glare from the brunet quickly informed the blond that he should calm him down.

"What? No! Of course not! It wouldn't be used so often if it wouldn't work, now would it?"

"Yeah, I guess you're right." Mokuba said, now calmed down.

"You said you had questions." Seto said emotionlessly. Mokuba's cheeks reddened a bit.

"Um…yeah…how do I…you know…behave?" He asked the two males. Jounouchi shrugged.

"Like yourself." He stated simply.

"But it's a date! Shouldn't I be polite or something?"

"Oh yeah. Of course. Don't forget to compliment her!" He warned.

"On what?"

"Uh…I don't know. Girl stuff. Like her clothes or something."

"Hmpf. How about just telling the truth instead of lying to flatter her?" Kaiba commented with folded arms, not liking the fact that Mokuba was being taught to practically suck up to someone.

"But what if the truth is that she looks good?" Jounouchi inquired with a smirk.

"Then there's no need to point it out." Kaiba said flatly. Katsuya sighed at his response.

"Don't listen to your brother, Mokuba. He wouldn't be able to be romantic even if his life depended on it." Jounouchi waved off as he spoke to raven-haired teen once more. Mokuba frowned at the comment.

"Not true! Seto can do anything!" The raven-haired boy insisted with a minor glare. However, it faded, turning into an amused expression. "And why are you so sure he can't be romantic? That's something you're with someone you like, isn't it? Not someone you're just friends with, right?" He asked as he folded his arms cockily. The brunet groaned inwardly while the blond blinked a few times at the younger Kaiba.

"…Who cares! I was just making a point."

"Do you have anymore questions? I have work to do." Seto said with a cold tone.

"Alright, so, when I'm at the movies, when do I put my arm around her?" He asked, genuinely interested. The CEO did not approve.

"What! No touching, Mokuba!"

"Unfair!" He protested, which only earned him a firm glare. "Everyone else are allowed to do it!"

"You're not everyone else! You're Mokuba Kaiba."

"What does that have to do with anything? I just want to put my arm around her!"

"Which leads to kisses, which leads to intercourse, which leads to teenage pregnancy. Don't think I have no clue as to what's going on with your age group."

"Oh my God…" Jounouchi muttered to himself, appearing to be the only sensible one at the time being.

"I won't have sex with her!"

"Good."

"But that doesn't mean I won't kiss her."

"What…!"

"Kid, relax, he's getting a heart attack!" Jounouchi explained worriedly. His input to the discussion was dismissed however.

"I'm old enough for it. Right, Jou?"

"What? Don't make me chose sides, kiddo!"

"Why? Are you with Seto on this?" Mokuba asked with sharp eyes.

"What? No of course not!"

"Hmpf. Worthless idiot. Don't teach my brother your immoral standards." Kaiba warned, glaring.

"I'm not!" Katsuya defended.

"So you're on Seto's side? I knew it! You're both teaming up on me!"

"I'm not on anyone's side!" Katsuya insisted. His input was ignored however since the CEO felt he had more important things to discuss whether who's side Jounouchi was on.

"It's for your own good, Mokuba." Seto said calmly. The said raven-haired boy looked at the brunet, as if pondering.

"I won't do anything irrational, Seto." Mokuba replied back, just as calmly with sincere eyes. Seto knew of this, but had a hard time letting go still. It was his brother. The one he had swore to protect and take care of. Needless to say, his inside was stirred over this date. For in the future there'd be plenty of this. And he didn't want to loose him quite yet.

"She might." He muttered darkly, not trusting the stranger that she was to him.

"I can take care of myself." Mokuba declared, his eyes slightly narrowed.

"Hn."

"Everything's going to be alright." The younger brother insisted with a kind smile. The CEO still doubted, still felt just the same worry as before, but knew he had already agreed to let him go on the date. And he always held his word.

"You better make sure it will." He warned, showing his disputes and reluctant behaviour to letting the other go were to be momentarily vanished. Mokuba smiled greatly at the brunet, who looked back emotionlessly, hoping the date would be a disaster and that he'd never go on one again. Ever. Including later in life. Of course, this affectionate moment had to be ruined by the blond, who made a content sigh, gazing at the two. Seto snorted rudely and Mokuba sighed.

Perhaps he was exaggerating. There was no greater risk of Mokuba getting within harms way. What bothered him was the fact that he'd lose him. If not now, then it'd be later. And this was just a simple way of notifying him of that dreadful piece of information he never wanted to think of.

His brother stayed for another half hour before he had to leave. Of course, he was escorted by the limousine. What else? A common taxi? It was with great discomfort and inner worry that he witness his departure from the window, Jounouchi standing beside him as he waved almost frantically at the leaving vehicle. Even though he had no idea if he was even seen or waved back at due to the dark windows. His eyes could only stare blankly at the departing limousine, ripping away the only one that ever loved him.

"He's going to be alright, Kaiba." Jounouchi said with a chuckle, putting a hand of his shoulder sympathetically. "Stop worrying. What can happen?" He asked rhetorically, but the brunet wanted to answer anyway, just to prove his point.

"Kidnapping, murder, poisoning in his food, intercourse in which she gets pregnant and he gets a sexually transmitted disease, -"

"I think you're taking things too far here." The blond said with a amused chuckle. Seto didn't find it to be so however.

"Hmpf." It didn't feel right to let Mokuba away like this. Granted, he let him have his freedom in controlled doses otherwise, with friends and such. But this was an entirely different thing. What if this Aiko Yamanaka didn't like him, or turned him down, or only did this to embarrass him?

He'd strangle her if she did.

No, he couldn't just sit around here mindlessly when his brother could be exposed to suffering. After all, love hurts, end of story. And he wasn't old enough to find that out yet!

So with determined footsteps did he walk away from the window after having pushed away the blond, aiming for the front door. He'd take a car and follow them personally. That way, he could monitor everything. And if something ominous were to happen, he could simply step in and take over the situation. No one breaks his brother's heart.

"Kaiba! What the hell are you doing!" Katsuya shouted after him as the CEO took a set of keys and put on a pair of shoes calmly. The blond was far from calm, appearing angry, maddened and crazy. Like how he usually is.

"Leaving."

"What! Where the hell are you going? And why the hell did you push me!"

"I'm going after Mokuba." The CEO answered simply as he finished with his shoes and opened the door, walking out to so he could get inside the garage. Jounouchi was mad enough to follow, not even bothering to put on shoes.

"Kaiba… It's his first date!" Katsuya urged after him.

"Exactly!"

"You can't do this to him."

"I'm doing it for him." Kaiba reminded with a snort. A hand then grabbed his, and reluctantly the brunet turned around, glaring at the blond for even daring to stop him.

"No, you need to stay." Jounouchi spoke with a minor glare himself. "Just picture yourself in his shoes! How would you like it if your brother followed you around because he didn't trust you?"

"It's not because of that, I-"

"It damn well appears to be the case!"

"He's more rational than you. He'll understand." Seto declared coldly. Brown eyes looked back, still glaring. But the blond moved closer, still holding his hand however, their bodies almost brushing.

"Kaiba, you-" Jounouchi began, but sighed, apparently at loss of words. He looked ready to rip out his own hair, frustrated with being unable to reason. Without notice did Katsuya's forehead press against his chest, relaxing. The brunet glanced down with narrowed eyes, not understanding anything. Jounouchi sighed once more before tilting his head upwards, staring into blue eyes. The blond smiled faintly and knowingly, as if having figured something out. "You need to let go a little." He advised, almost kindly. But the brunet glared down, insulted by the words.

"Don't tell me what to do." Seto shot back and pushed the man away, attempting to get to his vehicle once more.

"I'll wreck your damn house if you leave!" Katsuya bellowed after the brunet. Slowly Kaiba turned, staring indifferently at the other man who glared ferociously. "I mean it!" Jounouchi warned, which made the CEO smirk. The blond was truly one of a kind. But he didn't say anything for a while, contemplating. Then, finally, he spoke as he nonchalantly turned around.

"Have fun." He shrugged off, opening the giant garage door with a little click. Technology was such a bliss at times, it certainly made things easier. He wasted no time on waiting for it to fully open however, getting inside as soon as he could.

Various of expensive cars and a few motorcycles were located inside. He went to a black car, something he hoped to be discrete and would blend in with the environment. Jounouchi didn't tag along and pester him however. The CEO figured he was simply too tired to keep trying. Yet as he started the engine he was proven wrong. Katsuya's angry face was visible before the car, glaring at him through the window. Blue eyes narrowed.

"What the hell are you doing! Get out of my way!" Kaiba bellowed at the blond idiot, too annoyed with his senseless acts to be calm.

"No." Jounouchi defied.

"You're being stupid, Jounouchi. It's a strange concept, but try to use your brain for once and step aside." Kaiba ordered, this time with more a more calm and firm voice.

"Don't think so. And I'm not stupid!" Katsuya replied angrily.

"You want me to run you over?" The brunet asked cockily through his open window, smirking as he thought the other would back away.

"Only if you want to." Jounouchi replied back, just as cockily. Which angered the CEO. With a frown did he step on the gas pedal, his car emitting an unnecessary loud noise signalling he'd leave soon. Yet the persistent fool stood still in front of the car. And the CEO grew even more angry, for now he would surely have a lot of distance to catch up on with his brother. So with no further adieu did he let the car roll, a cold glare the only thing he gave Jounouchi. And the idiot still didn't move even if the car did. There was only one thing that was bound to happen.

He hit the breaks of course.

Not that he was happy doing so. At the moment, he could almost rip off Jounouchi's head. Speaking of which, the blond had his eyes closed, that cowardly fool, still anticipating a hit. Kaiba's fingers squeezed the steering wheel in anger. Brown eyes slowly opened and a huge grin was visible on the blond man's face. Seto clenched his jaw as he shut down the engine, key in pocket, and stepped outside, marching over to the blond. Who still stood in front of the car.

"Are you stupid!" Kaiba bellowed, grabbing a hold of Jounouchi's collar as he glared icily at the man.

"What the hell were you thinking? Were you even thinking!" He asked harshly and perhaps a bit loudly. The voice alone, not to mention his face, would've scared about anyone to a heart attack. But perhaps Jounouchi was a bit too dense to be all too anxious of the scolding. The grin he had from before returned even though he was still being held by the collar.

"Heh…you didn't run me over. I knew you liked me!" The blond stated proudly, as if it was something to brag about. For a second the brunet stared at him with confusion. But his expression turned cold as he let the other go. But since the grin greatly annoyed the brunet, he forcefully pushed the blond out of his, causing Katsuya to yelp and end up on the floor. The CEO retreated to the house with his usual frown on his face, glaring ahead of him as he walked out of the garage.

"Fucking bastard!" Jounouchi bellowed from the floor, but was quick to stand up and sprint after the brunet. "Hey Kaiba! Wait up you jerk! Where're you going!" Katsuya asked as he caught up to him. Kaiba didn't spare him a glance, keeping his eyes on the entrance door.

"Inside." Seto replied calmly. And Jounouchi's proud grin was audible.

"What a smart idea, Kaiba." Katsuya commented, clearly happy the CEO had abandoned his ideas of leaving the mansion.

"Shut up." Seto replied as he entered the mansion, slamming the door in front of Jounouchi's face before he could enter. Unfortunately, it wasn't locked, so the blond still got inside. With a very visible glare as well.

"Stop being so damn pissed about it! I actually saved you from embarrassing yourself, you know! But do I get a thank you? Or even a little appreciation? Nooo, I don't." Katsuya complained with his animated hand gestures. Something Seto didn't pay attention to, walking over to the phone as quickly as possible. He had a new plan in mind. "I should've just let you stalk your own brother so he could scold you himself!" Jounouchi muttered darkly as he folded his arms, noticing the CEO was going to make a call. It didn't take long before the number was called. Kaiba smirked as a familiar voice was heard on the other end of the phone. With poise did he seat himself down on the nearby chair and quickly brought up his laptop, logging in on it.

"Kaiba Corp security staff." The voice announced.

"It's me." Kaiba greeted coldly, using nothing but his business behaviour. "I have a assignment for you."

"Yes sir. What is it?" His employee wondered, equally emotionlessly. Kaiba appreciated that.

"I want you to follow Mokuba and watch everything he does. Currently he's in the limousine. I'll allow you access to see it on the GPS monitor." The CEO said flatly as he now had successfully logged into his laptop and started to enable his employee to see the said GPS monitor he had had installed in the vehicle. Never did he know it would be used for such an occasion. He smirked at his brilliance. Only him and him alone knew of the access codes to it, so no one could use it against him.

A few meters away Jounouchi stood gaping at him, completely shocked that the CEO was still persisting in having his brother followed. Kaiba briefly noticed this yet didn't care enough to comment. But the reason as to why the blond didn't say anything was unbeknownst to him.

"Yes sir."

"And don't make yourselves noticed by the subject. You are by no circumstances allowed to reveal yourselves. Unless of course any danger is exposed to him. Then you know what to do." Kaiba ordered.

"Yes sir. Is that all?" The employee answered almost mechanically.

"Yes. And remember, if anything happens to him, I will personally see to it that you pay." The CEO warned icily.

"The mission will not fail Mr Kaiba." His employee promised after a moment of silence.

"It better not." Kaiba warned once more before hanging up. Katsuya took this opportunity to speak, placing himself to stand about a step away from the CEO. The brunet still had his blue eyes directed at the screen however, not bothering to glance up briefly.

"Kaiba-"

"What now?" Seto asked with a bothered tone, checking his email to read reports. The blond sighed.

"You're really weird." Jounouchi said with a knitted brow, looking almost thoughtful, as he scratched the back of his head. Seto merely smirked.

"Whatever." He shrugged off. His eyes then turned up from the screen, looking into brown ones.

"You've already done what you're supposed to do. Do you want to go home? If you want, I can easily provide a vehicle and chauffeur to escort you. It'll get you away faster anyway."

"Nah. I think I'll stay." Jounouchi said with a shrug.

"What?"

"Yeah, why not?"

"Don't you have that book to read?" Seto tried, knowing full well that he himself would not have the will to make him leave.

"I can do it later."

"How ambitious." The brunet replied sarcastically.

"Yeah I know." Jounouchi joked back with a faint smile. "So, you want to do something, or what?"

"No."

"What? I'm your guest here! Entertain me!" Jounouchi demanded with narrowed eyes, not liking Seto's attitude. Then again, he never seemed to like it to begin with, Seto mused.

"Hmpf."

"Asshole. Come on! I want to do something." The blond wailed. Like a child almost. Seto scolded himself for even falling such a immature person. What had he been thinking?

"Then do whatever you want. Just don't break anything, don't touch expensive items and stay out of bedrooms."

"…Hmm…What to do? Oh I know! We can watch a movie!" Jounouchi declared after seconds of, what appeared to be, serious contemplation. Seto raised an eyebrow.

"We?"

"So which ones do you have?" Katsuya asked, not giving Seto's question any thought.

"Various."

"Awesome!"

"Not really."

"Where are they?" Once again, Seto's input was ignored. Blue eyes narrowed, slightly annoyed.

"In the living room."

"Show me. I don't know where the hell anything is in this house." The blond explained. Seto made a faint bothered sigh and gave a minor glare before speaking once more.

"Fine." He reluctantly agreed. Jounouchi gave him a lopsided smile.

And with that did Kaiba momentarily abandon his laptop, shutting it down because of learned reflexes. Whenever he left it, he turned it off. Simple as that.

His lips were in a thin line, on the verge of frowning however, as he noticed the mischievous look in Katsuya's eyes as they walked. Most likely he'd force him to watch the movie with him. Kaiba sighed mentally at the obvious future attack Jounouchi had managed to plan. His head began to actually consider watching it with him.

He truly had sunk low…

And when he really thought about it, it made him feel utterly disgusted with himself. Feeling this way for such a lowlife. Jounouchi had nothing deemed valuable from the world he comes from. It was truly ironic that he, the CEO of a wealthy company, should fall for such a poor creature. And the blond didn't have smarts either. What on earth had he been drawn to in the first place? He couldn't place his finger on exactly what it was that made him feel this way. Because for some reason an odd sensation of an absurd joy took place inside his heart whenever he was with the other. It felt as if there'd been nothing specific he had fallen for. But he had never been too fond of the whole package either, tormenting the blond back in the old days, so to speak, for what and who he was.

So why was he trapped by his emotions like this? Is love really that unreasonable? Could it not be fully explained? Everything else in life can. Why not love? This mystery was driving him crazy, and he frowned, bothered by it.

When reaching the living room containing movies and a television he curtly explained where everything was, in which Jounouchi nodded. The brunet turned his heel afterwards to walk back to his laptop. As expected, the blond grabbed his hand, making him stop.

"Stay." Jounouchi said with a whisper, holding onto the hand a few seconds before letting go. Blue eyes stared coldly into brown ones, not sure what he should do.

"Why?"

"It's boring to watch a movie alone. Especially when you're in someone else's house." The blond explained with a faint lopsided smile. The CEO still had a cold expression on his face.

"I have things to do." Seto replied without emotion. "And you hardly need my company to watch a movie. Stop being such a baby and do something on your own." He replied coldly before turning around again, attempting to leave.

"Bastard!" Jounouchi bellowed, growling angrily. "Yeah, just walk away you wuss! Come back and I'll kick your ass!" He warned, but the brunet just snorted and kept walking to where he came from.

No footsteps were heard behind him, urging him to come back. No. All was silent.

XxxX

Almost two hours had passed. The brunet wasn't quite sure if Jounouchi was still inside the house any longer, having spent all his concentration to think and type. Adding all the working he had accomplished while in school, he was pretty much finished by now. Of course, the work never really ends for a CEO, but he divides his work, plans what to do and when to do it. And today, he had done all that he had planned.

Pale fingers slowly turned the laptop off and put it aside before standing up. His tall form walked over to a window, staring out at his grounds. The reason for this he didn't really know, but it was something to occupy him at the moment.

Things were bothering him.

For one, there was the very likely possibility of Jounouchi liking Mai Kujaku. For even if he knew he couldn't have the other, he certainly didn't want anyone else to have him just because of that. Selfish perhaps, but he never claimed to be that caring in the first place.

Then there was the possibility of Jounouchi liking him back as well. Had they not behaved very…intimate, together? They always were. To him, it was simply a way to be with the other without going insane by knowing he couldn't have him. But for Jounouchi? Why was he this close all the time? Perhaps it was lust. He shouldn't expect two sided romantic feelings on his behalf. Things never worked out like that in reality.

Lastly there was the fact that he had no idea whatsoever as to why he had been captured by love so ruthlessly to Jounouchi in the first place. He couldn't see it. Was his hormones playing tricks on him? Or was he self loathing enough to make himself actually love this man? It was all too strange for him, even the concept as well. Of course, now he had learned to deal with it, if a bit reluctant, but from where did it originate?

It annoyed him that he didn't know. For he was Seto Kaiba, and Seto Kaiba knows everything worth knowing.

The brunet sighed at the pondering that brought him no answers. Jounouchi always managed to pester him, even if they were apart. Stupid moron. How could he have grown to have such a big impact on him?

A sudden hit of worry on how his brother was doing on his date currently took over, showing by the slight frown growing on his facial features. At least he had his well trained security guards looking after him. Of course, they wouldn't be able to do the job quite as perfect as the CEO himself, but…there would most likely not be anything too greatly to worry about, he reluctantly admitted. The girl was a nobody, and thirteen at that. What could she possibly plot? But, just in case, his employees had been ordered to look out for Mokuba anyhow. One can never be too sure. His brother had been taken away from him too often.

The sky was darkening outside, grey clouds floating around. Perhaps it'd rain in a few hours or so. Hopefully his brother would return home sooner then. Rain wasn't really a romantic weather, now was it? One gets wet and cold, not to mention it's uncomfortable.

Yes, Seto admitted, he wished for rain to soak them both. That way Mokuba would get back faster.

But it was far from the time for when Mokuba would come back. Hours still awaited. He sighed again, bothered by the fact that he had to share his only brother to someone he had never met. If his brother wished to date her once more he'd only be allowed if the CEO actually got to see her in person. That way he could easily try and figure out what type of character she was. People's facades often broke when he glared at them. He was too intimidating, especially to younger people, he knew that. Though some never knew when to be scared. Including the blond idiot.

A faint smirk graced his lips at the thought of the other. Wondering if he was still around in the house, he decided he should go and take a look. Never caring about the fact that he left Katsuya angry with him. He wanted to see him now, and that's that. The fact that his brother was gone evoked this thinking, trying to focus on something else beside worry.

Without sound he soon found himself in the living room, watching the moron who laid stretched out on the couch, a bowl of popcorn near, eating while watching a movie. And the CEO's presence had yet to be discovered. The brunet stood tall, smirking down from behind the couch at the man who's eyes were too fixated with the screen. A sort of battle was taking place on it, containing plenty of violence. But he didn't care.

Deciding that startling never hurt anyone, he leaned down his face close to the back of Katsuya's head, who was still mesmerized by the movie, and smirked viciously. Then he proceeded in whispering such innocent words, no one could hold him at any fault.

"Enjoying yourself?" He asked in a normal tone. A startled cry was all the heard from Katsuya, who on instinct either must've jumped or fell out of the couch to get away from the source of sound. The brunet stood straight up once more while wearing a big smirk. The blond on the other hand now sat on the floor, his hand over his heart as he panted. Brown eyes glared up at the newly arrived man who still looked as content as ever.

"Fucking bastard! Are you trying to kill me now!"

"Such accusations." Seto brushed off arrogantly before coolly walking over to stand in front of the blond. Katsuya immediately reacted with standing up, still glaring angrily at Kaiba.

"What do you want?" He spat out in a unfriendly manner, most likely due to the fact that he previously insulted the blond and left him, only to return and scare him. So he wasn't a natural charmer, and lacked consideration at times, but the CEO didn't find any major faults with this behaviour he had.

"Interesting question. Though I'm afraid you won't get an answer to it." Kaiba replied with a smirk, looking down with eyes that held too much affection for his own liking. If he had known they displayed this that is.

"Well what the hell are you doing here then!"

"I live here, don't I?"

"Yeah, but you…nah, forget it." Katsuya said with a sigh. "It's not like you're going to care anyway. God forbid." He muttered before sitting down on the sofa once more, his arms folded, showing he was still angry. An angry Jounouchi could be quite amusing, but he preferred him in a less grumpy mood, to tell the truth. Not that an angry Jounouchi couldn't lead to very interesting scenarios, but a happy one complied more to his actions. Therefore, it would be most profitable to vanish the anger.

Thinking up a possible strategy in less than half a minute, Kaiba calmly sat down beside the blond. Their bodies didn't touch, but it was close. Katsuya immediately reacted, prolonging his glare.

"What are you doing!" Jounouchi spat out, hostility clearly showing. Kaiba paid no attention to this, his eyes focusing on the television screen.

"Sitting."

"Why!"

"I'm going to watch the movie."

"As if!" The blond exclaimed disbelievingly.

"I can't watch my own movies now? Hmpf, I don't think that's up to you to decide."

"I don't know what you're trying to pull, but it ain't going to work." Oh yes, it would. And with this mental conclusion, Kaiba smirked knowingly as he turned his gaze to the blond beside him. His action was only met by a glare. But soon it would disappear. He just had to be patient. Which he could be. He could be very patient.

So he waited, sitting straight beside his slumped down companion, awaiting until his anger would stop seething. And wait he did, but it didn't take all that long. Fifteen minutes approximately. Because it was then Jounouchi had brought up his legs, sitting Indian-style on the sofa. Jounouchi's knee then brushed against his leg. This little action, so simple and innocent, was all the proof he needed that Jounouchi wasn't all that upset anymore. Because the blond wouldn't even risk touching him if he was angry. Therefore, the situation had now been turned.

Since talking never really had been his forte, he decided actions would serve him better. So his arm closest to Jounouchi was lazily brought up, only to be stretched out at the top of the sofa, conveniently lying behind the blond. Katsuya quickly noticed however and turned his head to face the brunet.

"Dammit Kaiba, that's so cliché!" He complained, surprising the CEO. He had not assumed this action would be met by such disliking. So it was with a frown that he brought the arm back, snorting at the other to keep his dignity. For sadistic reasons, Jounouchi seemed quite amused by this. With a cocky grin did his gaze stay with the brunet, turning slightly in his seat to face the brunet.

"Aw, did I make the big bad Kaiba sad?" He asked tauntingly. A dangerous glare was immediately sent to him through blue eyes, hinting him to shut up. Then again, Jounouchi was never good with hints. So the brunet snorted as well to let it sink through. His eyes then turned back to the screen, staring coldly at it as if it was the cause of his problems. But he could still feel Jounouchi grinning at him.

Jounouchi was moving, that he could tell. Onto his knees, staring down at him with his brown eyes. His own blue orbs looked up with an annoyed persona, wondering what the hell the blond man was doing now. Jounouchi's facial expression had not changed at all beside that mischievous glint in his eyes that told the CEO to be prepared for anything at the current moment. Which he was. At least, he thought he was.

But without any sort of warning the blond pushed him down to a lying position, his head connecting with the armrest perhaps a little too quickly. Irritated with the whole scenario, he looked into brown to find an answer instead of simply shouting out 'What the hell are you doing you moron!' like he felt like doing. But that could make the other man angry, and his goal was to make him the opposite. Therefore, the glare was a substitute of words at the moment. He proceeded to mentally curse his strategy at the given moment.

Both of Jounouchi's hands pinned him down, though Kaiba could easily get up if he so wished, holding the CEO down at his shoulders. He was leaned over the CEO, staring at him with a content expression. Gently, his hands stopped supporting his body weight on the brunet as he moved them to rest on the couch itself. Brown eyes stared down, contemplating over something it appeared. The brunet kept asking the blond what the hell was going on with nothing but his cold eyes demanding an explanation. A request Jounouchi discarded without second thought it seemed. Out of nowhere the man above him spoke, his voice serious yet slightly soft. It confused the CEO.

"You keep going back and forth all the time Kaiba. One minute you're playing it nice, the next you're a jerk. It's driving me crazy. I don't know where I have you." He explained, still staring into blue eyes as if he tried to see through them, trying to break down the wall that was so impossible to destroy. The corner of the brunet's lips twitched upwards, smirking to show his amusement at the blond man's troubles. His voice spoke out more affectionately than planned, but it still held the edge of taunt that he planned on having.

"I'm right here." Seto answered easily and calmly as he looked up into the brown warm eyes. The answer made the other man smile down at him, for one reason or another, finding that response satisfying. Their gaze held strong, both appearing content, before the blond man gently lowered himself, ending up lying both on top and beside the brunet. It confused the CEO. Now it appeared that the blond man watched the movie playing on the screen instead of focusing on the man he was using as a pillow of sorts. Blue eyes narrowed, looking at Katsuya with bewildered feelings. A question leaked out of him then, one he had barely bothered thinking about before.

"Why are you still here?" Seto asked Katsuya in his usual firm voice, looking steadily at the other teenager. Jounouchi appeared unbothered by it, offering a friendly smile.

"Someone's got to keep you inside the mansion and away from ruining Mokuba's date. I ain't letting you destroy it that easily Kaiba." Jounouchi answered jokingly, grinning at the end. His comrade didn't appear as amused, slightly glaring as he snorted. Brown eyes noticed the discomfort and a lopsided smile was now taking place on the man's face.

"But its not like I don't want to be here either." Jounouchi mumbled, his eyes still focused on the movie playing before them and his head still resting on the brunet's chest. A smirk was growing on Kaiba's lips after having heard the statement, clearly only having positive thoughts of it. Yes, he indulged in the fact that Jounouchi liked him. Or rather, might like him. Whatever. Minor technicality. His own mind had betrayed him, evoked by the simple realization when with Jounouchi earlier that day after having had lunch. Even if it could be extremely fatal for their relationship to continue on in oblivion if the blond harboured some sort of romantic interest in him, he still enjoyed it. His rational side desperately tried consulting him in that Jounouchi would never feel that strongly about him. But that was so hard to believe when they were laying like this.

The warmth from the other body that continued to stay immobile, aside from a few adjustments here and there every once in a while, was soothing. Brown eyes were to no extent at all observing him, leaving the brunet to be transfixed all the wanted. A pleasure he loved to have. For at the moment he didn't touch, contemplating if this was really fair. What was he going to do? What was the right thing to do? The answer was clear, as it has always been.

He should end it all.

Blue eyes lost the pervious intensity they had only held a second ago, replaced by the usual stoic eyes that never revealed a thing. With a hidden melancholic emotion did he avert his gaze from the blond man, staring straight ahead at nothing in particular.

He didn't want to let go.

But what if this developed into something more? What if his illusion became reality? Granted, he found that possibility extremely intriguing. But there were more variables than him himself to consider. Mokuba and his company being the other. Too torn was he, between his responsibilities and desire, that he could not make up his mind. Which rarely happened with this young man, who often had a solution instantly. Of course, he had one this time as well; to dispose of this relationship once and for all. But he was not willing to go through with this course of action.

He was too weak now.

The decision did not feel right. He didn't believe it to be right. Or had his love simply infected his mind and thinking all too greatly? That was a possibility, he admitted bitterly to himself. Yet this love had not caused him any harm, now had it? Perhaps it was harmless? Yet he doubted. All was routine now, a normal activity he enjoyed having. Jounouchi and him, so close yet no apparent reason for it. He liked not exposing himself whilst taking full opportunity of what he wanted.

He didn't want to end it. And at the same time, he didn't want for them to get involved.

"Kaiba? You okay?" The blond man's face looked with curiosity at him as he knitted his brow, his chin resting atop of Kaiba's chest. It was slightly uncomfortable, but the CEO didn't say anything. Blue eyes stared emotionlessly into the brown ones.

"Yes."

"Don't seem it to me."

"Use glasses." He replied with coldness, making his verbal sparring opponent glare shortly before turning back to the flat screen.

"Whatever. Stiff bastard." He grumbled out, ending this poor excuse of a conversation. Leaving the brunet alone with his thoughts once more. It grew uncomfortable then. For he had no idea what to do, and such a thing scared him. He always knew what to do. Always. And he always did everything in his power to go through with it.

What was so damn different now?

The man on top of him, that he still had not pushed away, sighed almost heavily. As if feeling guilty. A brown eyebrow was raised, his focus on the bothered man, but he was given no reply. Jounouchi's face wasn't visible to him, his blond mop of hair the only thing he could see of his head. Shortly after the brunet felt two hands weakly hold his own, thus warming it. He frowned in confusion, wondering what this was for. Katsuya's head tilted slowly, his brown eyes looking at him through blond bangs of hair, a serious expression on his face.

"You know, if there's something's bothering you…" He started softly, making the CEO almost want to mock the other for this sentimental scenario. "I'm here." Katsuya said in a firm voice, his face showing nothing but sincerity. Yet he said it so simply, so easily. Blue eyes stared at the brown orbs, slightly narrowed, wondering why his heart reacted to these words in such a peculiar manner.

Brown eyes bored into blue ones for a few additional seconds, making sure the CEO had understood, before acting like normal once more, returning to the movie. Leaving the brunet bewildered. Both hands lingered with his, gently holding. And the brunet didn't object to it either, allowing the action with no input whatsoever.

He focused on listening to Jounouchi's calm breathing rather than the noise from the television. It was more…relaxing…that way. His own chest slowly moved up and down, as did Jounouchi, and he watched the repeating action. Soon he became tired from his boredom, but didn't leave. Didn't want to due to the wonderful position they were in. Besides, there wasn't any place else that was better to be at. His work was done for today. Did he not deserve a break?

With that mental conclusion did he allow himself to stay, his eyes closing, relaxing even more.

Oblivion wouldn't be so bad though.

XxxX

His eyes felt tired, and his body was relaxed as he laid on his back. Familiar with this state of being, the CEO quickly understood he had been sleeping. Knowing full well where he was as well, since he felt a warm body resting half on top and half beside him. He needn't open his eyes to know it was Jounouchi. So he didn't, allowing himself to devour in this moment. It wasn't everyday that he and the blond fell asleep together. And what a absolute feeling of contentment it brought on.

He made a faint smirk as he turned his face to his left, coming in contact with Jounouchi's hair, alerting him that the blond man had moved up. His nostrils enjoyed the scent it emitted. The breathing of the other was slow and steady, showing him that his companion was asleep. Seizing the opportunity laid before him, Kaiba gently directed his arms around Jounouchi's waist, his hands resting on the curve of his back. Soft strokes started to take place, his hand sneaking under the other man's shirt while doing so. It never bored him to feel that skin that was so soft yet firm. Unconsciously, the blond drowsily pressed his body closer to the CEO's, clearly enjoying the touch. Kaiba smirked, satisfied with knowing that the other obviously liked what he did.

It was as if his fingers had been made to touch this skin. Nothing else felt this right. At least it felt right when he didn't think about how wrong it was.

Slowly, his lids parted, tiredly starting at the mass of yellow his vision contained. To get a better view did he lazily adjust his head, contently staring at Jounouchi's relaxed face. One of the blond man's legs and arms were stretched out over the brunet, working as a unconscious safety precaution, disabling Kaiba from escaping without awakening the blond in the process.

It felt so utterly comfortable, even though his left leg had fallen asleep and the blond hair slightly irritated his skin. Despite that he didn't want to trade this away to do something else instead. This was good enough. A cheap substitute of actually being able to wake up every day seeing Jounouchi beside him.

Because he did want that, didn't he? He yearned so eagerly for Jounouchi it drove him insane when he thought about it. All reason and logic had been banished in this. But he knew what he wanted nevertheless. He knew he wanted much more than friendship. Much more than Jounouchi's body. Ironically he wanted the whole package, something he used to mock the other for so often. Just his luck to crave for him later on. Yet the thought of actually initiating a relationship unnerved him.

A hand of his continued to slowly caress the skin under the shirt. But a sudden idea came to mind as he did so, one he was quite unsure what to do about. Hesitantly did his hand's touches slowly go lower down on the back of Katsuya's body, their destination perfectly clear. But he had never went to that area before.

Growing more self-conscious over the situation, Kaiba found that his fingertips now barely touched the skin under them, prepared to jerk away at any moment given. It was perhaps a forbidden fruit he would soon come in contact with. So his touches stopped, his fingers resting at the top of Jounouchi's pants, wondering if this was really such a good idea.

The sleeping body beside him made a faint groan as if displeased the caresses had ceased. And that was enough of compliance for the CEO to continue, his fingertips gently moving over the forbidden line, going lower. And a few stressful milliseconds later had he successfully managed to end up on Jounouchi's behind.

And he smirked, so proud was he that his lips could not hide it.

Exploring the curves he found all too fascinating his hand trailed down to the back of the blond man's thigh. Then it went back up again. It didn't take long before his touches grew firm instead of barely contacting what was underneath. And all that could possibly be called innocent went straight out the window.

He noticed a shifting in Jounouchi's body, who grew more tense during this. He proudly smirked about this matter. But as he heard a faint, but very audible, moan his heart nearly stopped. For one reason or another, he liked that Jounouchi liked this. It wouldn't be the same otherwise. His blue eyes gazed almost fondly at the blond man, very much appreciating that they had become this close.

"Seto, why is your hand on Jou's butt?" A very familiar voice asked the brunet somewhere from behind him, alerting him his brother had clearly seen too much. Too shocked to react, his arm froze, luckily leaving his hand on Jounouchi's back instead of at a much more private area.

Having no idea what time it was he grew very worried. How long had Mokuba stood behind him anyway?

His heart hardly dared to beat, all too nervous as well. His blue eyes were shot wide open, nothing his brother could see however. And he noticed something else just as his brother had spoken. Jounouchi made a small gasp. Which could only mean he was awake. Which also meant he knew that he had…

Anticipating a heart attack in any second now, the CEO was shocked to death for the second time in less than five seconds, a too short time elapse for his liking. But where he lacked muscles to move, Jounouchi did not. The blond quickly jerked away from him, pressing himself at the other end of the couch as much as possible. Due to the distance, no body part met the other one's.

"Mokuba!" Jounouchi cried out in a startled voice. "W-when did you get here?" He asked, as if intimidated.

Realizing he had to do something as well, the CEO changed his facial expression, looking just as cold and indifferent as always. Gracefully did he seat himself properly on the couch, crossing one leg over the other as he folded his arms, keeping his posture straight. This enabled him to see his beloved brother, who grinned like a Cheshire cat, having folded arms as well. The raven-haired young man then decided to step in front of them, forcing down his grin to a smirk. A smirk that would make any Kaiba proud.

"Just now." Mokuba said calmly, looking knowingly at them both. Kaiba met his eyes, giving his brother no sign of embarrassment nor defeat. They held their gaze, competing over who'd win, before Mokuba started to speak once more.

"Seto, you didn't answer my question." His brother reminded. As if taunting him. Blue eyes narrowed, not pleased with his brother at the current moment.

"I wasn't fully aware of my actions. I was barely awake and I didn't know what I was doing." Seto replied in a bored and matter-of-fact tone that could convince just about anyone. The explanation however was another story. Mokuba actually looked disappointed when hearing this so called reason.

"Right…" Mokuba said disbelievingly, but not digging deeper into the subject. His face then turned to the blond man, smirking mischievously.

"And what's your excuse?" Mokuba asked Jounouchi, who looked quite surprised to even be addressed to.

"What? What about me? I didn't do anything!" He defended. Kaiba cursed himself mentally, hating his hormones and lack of intelligence when the blond man was concerned. But his younger brother simply snorted disbelievingly.

"Yeah right! I heard you moan!" Mokuba argued, narrowing his eyes at the blond.

"No I didn't!" Katsuya quickly defended.

"Yes you did!"

"Nu-uh!"

"Yes you did! It sounded like this: 'Mmmm'." Mokuba re-enacted, causing both men to widen their eyes.

"Mokuba, don't do sounds like that." Seto nearly hissed out.

"Yeah, it's freaking disturbing." The blond agreed, a look of disbelief in his eyes.

"You should know. That's how you sound! Don't even deny it!"

"But I-" Katsuya started out, but was only given a firm glare from the shorter man, shutting him up.

"Alright, whatever. I did it. Who cares. I was barely awake anyway." He excused, looking away as he did so. Mokuba made a dramatic sigh.

"God, you two are so immature." He muttered. None of the scolded teenagers disagreed. Instead, Kaiba decide to avert the attention away from them and into more meaningful discussions.

"How did the date go?" Kaiba asked, causing his brother to lose all his confidence, looking down of the ground in embarrassment.

"Um…it went well…" Mokuba said shyly, peeking up from under the hair that fell in front of his eyes. Jounouchi grinned at this, allowing himself to forget about the previous discussion as soon as possible.

"Awesome! I knew you could do it, kiddo." He complimented. However, the brunet wasn't quite as happy to hear of this, narrowing his eyes at his brother. Mokuba seemed to notice, sighing before speaking.

"Don't worry brother. I didn't touch her or kiss her or anything." He mumbled solemnly. Kaiba nodded in approval. Katsuya on the other hand did not.

"Kaiba you jerk!" He spat out, taking both males attention. "He could've had his first kiss if it wasn't for you!"

"Why are you blaming me? Besides, it's good he didn't do anything." Seto stated, proud that Mokuba had not been doing any hasty activity with the girl. God knows what he would do if Mokuba ever behaved with someone the way he behaved with Jounouchi.

"He didn't do anything because you were such an ass about it and told him not to!"

"Nobody kisses on the first date anyway." Seto shrugged off.

"Yeah, it's okay Jou." Mokuba said with a smile. "I can kiss her on the third one instead." The raven-haired teen said with an even bigger smile. The CEO didn't quite like this conclusion however.

"What!"

"Well, I said it went well." Mokuba explained to his brother, biting his lower lip in anxiety, his eyes darting from the floor to his brother. "And…we're going on a second one next week as well…" He mumbled, this time staring entirely on the floor, awaiting his brother's reaction.

"No." Kaiba stated firmly with cold eyes. His brother's eyes widened.

"But Seto-"

"I have to meet her first." He stated, wearing a faint smirk. A look of surprise was clear on his younger brother's face before he reacted with happiness. A smile soon took place and before the elder Kaiba knew it, Mokuba had swiftly thrown himself in his brother's arms, hugging him with much force.

"Thank you thank you thank you!" He blurted out, obviously grateful his brother wouldn't object to his relationship with his crush. "This is so awesome!"

"Hn." Was all the brunet could muster up, not quite in the mood to show any sign of joy himself. Dammit, he had just been caught with his hand on Jounouchi's behind! This was no time for positive feelings. "You can stop now." He said calmly since his brother was still clinging onto him. Mokuba did as told, though still smiling happily.

"How nice..." Jounouchi uttered from his corner of the sofa, looking at both brothers with fondness. Probably relating with this scenario on some level since he too had a younger sibling. Not that Kaiba cared. The brunet sighed before rising up, wanting to end this nonsense.

"Well, since Mokuba's home now I don't think your presence is-" He began, with every intention of getting rid of the blond man. However, his brother just had to step in, didn't he?

"Seto, I'm hungry." Mokuba said as he looked up at his taller brother.

"So?" He asked with narrowed eyes. "Make yourself something then."
"I was just thinking we could eat. Jou can eat with us too. He's probably hungry as well." The younger Kaiba explained, which caused the elder to grow suspicious.

"Weren't you supposed to eat on the date? Dinner and a movie was the plan, wasn't it?"

"Yeah, but I was kind of nervous then. I couldn't really get any food down."

"Weird. On my first date, I couldn't stop eating." Jounouchi said, looking thoughtful. The CEO didn't care of knowing this information however, not interested in anything that had to do with the moron and his previous romantic escapades. And as if Jounouchi could ever stop eating.

"Whatever. Dinner it is. Are you staying, Jounouchi?" He asked in a almost bothered tone.

"It's free food. How can I say no?" He joked. It didn't bring a smile to Kaiba's lips however, staring coldly at the man.

And with that it was decided. Jounouchi would stay to eat, prolonging his visit. However, the brunet didn't know whether to feel good or bad about it, which irritated him. They all ended up ordering some junk food, while he himself got a salad, and were now waiting for the delivery to take place. Jounouchi and Mokuba had gone to watch television while the brunet was in the kitchen, drinking his hot coffee calmly. The scent itself was so addicting, but the taste was all too wonderful. The energy it brought with was also needed as well.

"Seto?" A voice from behind asked, just entering the kitchen. Kaiba didn't turn around to acknowledge his brother, continuing to drink from his cup. It was almost empty and needed a refill pretty soon.

The form of his brother walked up, seating himself beside the taller one. Blue-grey eyes looked quite remorseful, which immediately took the brunet's attention.

"I'm sorry about before…" Mokuba said solemnly. "I wouldn't have said anything if I knew that none of you were going to admit to anything." He explained, making a short pause before continuing.

"You just seem so happy with Jou, and I just thought that if I could get one of you to -"

"Quiet, Mokuba." Kaiba said firmly, his blue eyes giving the younger teen a minor glare. He didn't want to hear what Mokuba had figured out. He didn't want to lie to him either and say that what he thinks isn't true. So his eyes tried to pry off the other. It didn't frighten his brother however.

"If you just accept Jou -" Mokuba started, but was cut off once again.

"Enough!" Kaiba said in a deep voice, glaring down at his brother. "Get out."

"Seto, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to -"

"I said out." Kaiba said coldly. His brother's eyes looked sadly into his, the silence almost killing him.

"Don't be mad at me." Mokuba urged quietly.

"I'm not. But I will if you don't leave now." Seto explained, directing his attention to his coffee once more. His brother sighed in a defeated manner before jumping down from his chair.

"Fine…" He muttered, exiting slowly. The brunet could feel his eyes in the back of his head, but didn't turn around to meet them, pretending his cup of coffee was the only thing in the room.

Eventually Mokuba had fully exited the room, leaving the CEO alone with his thoughts. And such worry it brought with. For now there was nothing that kept his brother's mind in oblivion. He had most likely already figured everything, or at least something, out. Grown men don't just touch other grown men like that.

What exactly his brother thought of everything he didn't know. He didn't know whether Mokuba had understood that he, even though he doesn't want to, loves Jounouchi. Maybe his brother only thinks of this as something hormonal, just a phase. Nothing all too extreme. Then again, when the younger Kaiba had spoken to him, it did sound far away from a petty lust scenario.

Therefore, it was most likely that Mokuba had understood he at the very least had feelings for the blond man. But Mokuba could not have any idea of how grave and deep they were. And that was his only consolation in this pathetic moment.

How could he have been so careless! Why is it that nothing ever goes as planned when it is him that makes the plan? Was it his own fault? Was he too weak? Had he always been?

Extracting the last drop of coffee from his cup, he tasted it with a frown. This was not how he wanted things to be. Mokuba was never to find out or understand. And this time he couldn't blame anyone but himself. It was his fault, and his alone. That fact made it sting even more for he hated when he couldn't do things properly.

XxxX

The various pizzas and hamburgers and his salad had arrived, forcing the trio together to sit and eat. Whilst the tension between the two brothers was obvious to themselves, Jounouchi seemed to be ignorant of it, eating happily and chatting normally with both Kaibas'. But the brunet kept quiet to himself for the most part, having nothing to say more than a few words. So Jounouchi had quickly turned his attention to the younger, less anti-social, brother who didn't turn down all his attempts at talking. Currently they were discussing the moron's group of friends since Mokuba had been polite enough to ask how everyone's doing. Jounouchi had then started to go in on unnecessary details about the matter, such as what they had done a few days ago and such. Completely and utterly boring information to know. The CEO tried to not glare a hole at wherever he happened to look at as the frequent mentioning of the nerd squad took place.

"Hey Mokuba, me and the gang are going to have a little reunion tomorrow at the Game Shop since Mai's back." Jounouchi stated with a smile. "Want to come?" Katsuya asked cheerily, smiling brightly. Mokuba's lips curved into a smile.

"Mai's back?" He asked with a surprised tone, in which Jounouchi nodded multiple times. The CEO tried to ignore this eager behaviour when concerning that woman.

"Yeah! Awesome, isn't it?" Jounouchi asked happily. Kaiba frowned angrily.

"Yeah!" Mokuba agreed, in which the CEO narrowed his eyes. Why was the damned woman so well liked! "You must be really happy. I remember that the two of you were really…" Mokuba added eagerly after he had finished chewing. But as the sentence developed, a sort of realization struck him, making him lose his enthusiasm. "close…" He ended up almost mumbling. Blue-grey eyes then quickly looked into blue ones, as if asking if his older brother already knew. Kaiba made sure to ignore his brother. His salad needed more pepper.

"Did Seto get invited?" Mokuba asked, his eyes only slightly narrowed when addressing the blond man. Katsuya looked bewildered at the raven-haired boy.

"Well, yeah. But the jerk said no." Katsuya said, looking semi angrily at the brunet when saying the last sentence. Kaiba glared back before continuing his meal.

"Seto, you're going, right?" Mokuba asked, his voice sounding almost…worried.

"No." He said simply, taking a sip from his coffee.

"Told you." Jounouchi grumbled, taking a extra large bite of pizza as he avoided to look at the brunet. Probably due to remembering his rejection to the invitation.

"So…how long is Mai staying?" Mokuba asked in a serious manner. The blond man shrugged.

"Don't really know. She hasn't made up her mind yet."

"Oh."

"So, you're coming or what?" Katsuya asked the younger Kaiba as he chewed his food whilst speaking. Kaiba looked away to be blissfully unaware of the process and Mokuba made a disgusted face before regaining himself.

"Sure, I'll come. So what are we going to do there then? Just a little get together or…?"

"Yeah, nothing too big. We're just going to play some games and stuff." Jounouchi explained with a smile. Mokuba made one too.

"Did you hear that Seto? You like playing games! Maybe you could challenge Yuugi to a duel and-"

"No." The older Kaiba cut off, sipping his coffee emotionlessly, even though a salad and coffee weren't the best combination.

"Heh, I don't think moneybags want to play these kind of games anyway." Katsuya snickered out.

"What do you mean?" Kaiba asked, finally engaging in the conversation, raising his eyebrow in suspicion.

"I don't really think you'll like Truth or Dare. Maybe Monopoly though." Katsuya mused to himself.

"You're going to play Truth or Dare?" Mokuba asked, appearing shocked. His older brother noticed this reaction, growing curious as to what was so special about it.

"Which is?" Kaiba asked to know in a demanding voice, hating not to know.

"Well, you sort of make a person chose if they want to be dared something, or answer a question truthfully." Jounouchi explained.

"Sounds boring."

"It's not." The blond defended. The CEO didn't care of that, having an opinion of it already that he wouldn't stray from unless proven otherwise. But his brother decided to join in on the conversation as well it seemed.

"Yeah Seto. It's not really that boring. Those things can get pretty…intense." Mokuba said in a serious tone, eyeing his brother in the most grave manner. The brunet knitted his brow, not sure what point his brother was trying to make. He raised an eyebrow questioningly to be given an answer, which Mokuba happily provided. "Because, sometimes, people dare other people to kiss someone." The raven-haired boy said, keeping the eye contact. Blue eyes looked back, trying to understand why this information should concern him. But within a second had jealousy kicked in. What if the blond fool dared Mai to kiss him!

"Oh." The CEO voiced out, not wearing any emotion on his face. "As long as you're not participating in those activities I don't care." He claimed with a numb façade. Mokuba made a small disappointed sigh over his brother's reaction.

"Geez Mokuba. You're making it sound as if people die or something. Lighten up. You need to spend some time with less stiff people." Jounouchi commented as he eyed the brunet and took a sip of his liquid. Some sort of soda to be exact. The CEO in turn eyed the blond man's choice of food sceptically. How the hell did one manage to stay healthy eating those things? But other things went through his mind as well, those of more importance.

"You better make sure he's not playing those kind of games." Seto warned the blond, giving a minor glare.

"What if I don't?" Katsuya dared to challenge. "Would you come then? To make sure he's not?"

"Hmpf. No. I just wouldn't allow him to go if that was the case."

"Gah! Why can't you just come?" Jounouchi growled out, though not as hostile as he could be. More like frustrated.

"It's pointless." Kaiba said easily.

"No it's not!"

"Yes it is."

"No it's -"

"Alright! I think the message is quite clear already!" Mokuba voiced out, glaring at the two elders. Seto snorted and turned his head away from the blond, who did the same, neither wanting to look at the other. Mokuba groaned at the immaturity, but didn't comment, letting the silence stay peaceful.

But silence is always meant to be broken, as was the unofficial rule. Who were they to not abide by it?

"So Jou-" Mokuba started out. Kaiba's ears perked up as he noticed his brother's tone of voice. It was…curious. Too curious. Which indicated that his brother seemed to want something. So blue eyes observed, quite interested in where this would lead. "how's Mai doing?" He asked, appearing genuinely interested. The CEO found himself bothered with this, but shrugged it off. It wasn't his business if they discussed her. He shouldn't care about such petty things.

It agitated him enormously that he knew he didn't follow his mind's example.

"Oh she's doing great!" Jounouchi exclaimed. "She's won two tournaments you know!" He bragged with a grin. Blue eyes narrowed, finding himself to actually care for such petty things. So what if he didn't like it when she was spoken of so eagerly by Jounouchi? Who wouldn't? It was plain sickening, this behaviour he displayed.

"That's great." Mokuba said, his tone being calmer. "How's she doing otherwise? Has she got a job? A boyfriend?" He asked casually. But the latter question asked by him appeared all but casual. None of them had ever spoken of romantic relationships concerning other people before. The CEO raised an eyebrow, wondering why his brother wanted to know of this. Katsuya knitted his brow, probably wondering the same.

"Uhm…a boyfriend?" The blond asked, as if he heard wrong.

"Yeah." Mokuba confirmed, still appearing calm and unfazed. Katsuya tilted his head, eyeing the boy.

"Aren't you a little too young for her?"

"What?" Mokuba asked in a surprised manner. "I don't want to date her!" He defended quickly. Jounouchi looked at the younger Kaiba sceptically, uttering a disbelieving "Uh-huh."

"It's true! I really don't!" Mokuba kept on defending, glaring as well.

"Then why do you want to know?"

"Just making conversation! Stop being so paranoid! I already like someone else! Geez…!"

"…If you say so. And no, she's still single as far as I know." The blond man declared. The brunet cursed mentally at hearing this. If the woman would at least have had the decency to be involved with someone right now perhaps it would make Jounouchi stop being interested in her. But no, of course not. The damn woman never did what he wanted her to do anyway. Not that he had told her what he wished for her to do, but still. She was working against him, and that's all that mattered. Which of course made the brunet frown as he involved himself with his thoughts.

"Hmmm, interesting." Mokuba uttered before a mischievous smirk graced his lips. Seto took great notice of this. So it would finally be revealed what on earth his sibling was up to.

"Speaking of single, do you know who else is?" Mokuba asked casually and innocently.

"Uh…" Katsuya said, not having much interested as he scratched the back of his head.

"Seto is!" Mokuba exclaimed happily before the blond man could answer. "He broke up with Arisu just yesterday you know."

"Yeah. I know." The blond said in a low voice as he gave the brunet a quick glance. Blue eyes stayed on the blond longer however.

"Isn't it great?"

"But I thought you said you liked her…" Jounouchi said with a suspicious voice.

"Well…I did…but I…well…she cheated on him! How could I like her?"

"Good point."

"Yeah, so now my brother is single."

"You already said that."

"So maybe we should set him up with someone?" Mokuba suggested. Blue eyes glared disapprovingly.

"Mokuba, I don't need a relationship." Kaiba stated firmly. Yet his sibling paid him no mind.

"So what do you say Jou? Do you know of anyone that my brother will be able to stand, is loyal, and can actually appreciate my brother for who he is?" Mokuba asked, his eyes dangerously intrigued by the blond man and his lips curved into the menacing Kaiba smirk.

"Uh…I-" Jounouchi began unsurely, his eyes darting between the two Kaibas'. It was obvious he wasn't too fond of this interrogation.

"You what?" Mokuba pushed, unconsciously leaning his head closer, as if it would still his curiosity. It simply made him look crazed, the brunet thought disapprovingly.

"I-I don't know! Besides, he said he didn't want a relationship now anyway." Katsuya muttered, taking a bite from his second pizza. Blue-grey eyes glared for a second at the uncooperative blond man.

"You know, my brother is the most eligible bachelor out there at the moment." Mokuba reminded Katsuya with a cheerful disposition.

"Mhm." Jounouchi said absentmindly, concentrating on eating.

"Anyone would be lucky to have him."

"…"

"You agree, right?"

"Uh…I…well…"

"Do you always stutter and speak slowly?" Mokuba taunted, annoyed with Jounouchi's lack of response.

"Do not!"

"So do you agree or not?" Mokuba asked with a slightly annoyed tone. Brown eyes looked at the boy, then to the CEO, staring as he pondered. Blue eyes stared coldly back, hiding his interest in what the blond would answer. However, a part of him simply wanted to end this conversation and throw out Jounouchi from his house. But his curiosity got the better of him, allowing Mokuba to continue this mind game.

"I guess." Katsuya finally stated with a shrug, as if it was nothing. Kaiba found himself disappointed with the vague unenthusiastic answer. When the blond spoke of Mai he didn't sound like that.

Great, he was pathetically jealous. As if it wasn't enough to simply love the fool.

Damn moron…!

"'I guess'? Jou, my brother is the best -"

"Enough, Mokuba." Kaiba told his brother calmly yet in a firm tone. He had had enough of this game Mokuba played. The raven-haired boy immediately quietened down, giving his brother a look of confusion. Yet blue eyes gave him no further look nor explanation as he raised himself from his chair, his meal having been eaten. Calmly he exited the room with plate and cup in his hands, going into the kitchen to put it in the dishwasher. Neither Jounouchi nor Mokuba said anything about this behaviour, both looking at him with slight puzzlement.

He knew what Mokuba was trying to do. He was trying to help. Or at least, help in the way the younger sibling thought was needed. The CEO didn't know whether to be happy or angry of this. But Mokuba had no right to meddle. For this, he grew aggravated.

His blue eyes stared blankly ahead of him, right into the wall. The plate and cup had been put into the machine seconds ago, and he didn't quite know what to do now.

He absolutely didn't want for Jounouchi to find out about his feelings for him. Not under any circumstances. It would be all too degrading. And Mokuba was sure as well dancing around the taboo subject already, bringing all light to it.

A person entered the kitchen, closing the door behind him. He needn't turn around to know who it was. His ears recognized the sound of the walking feet by heart, having been accustomed to it for years.

"Seto." Mokuba's low voice called out, as if greeting or warning that he was present. Alerting him that there would be social interaction shortly. The brunet proceeded to turn around, his cold eyes giving his brother a small glare. The younger one flinched upon seeing them, but regained himself quickly. But before he could speak, the brunet beat him to it.

"Stop whatever you're doing. There's no need of alerting Jounouchi whether or not I have a relationship." He scolded calmly. Firmly. Never did he let his anger take control. But it hadn't grown that large either. It could never when concerning his Achilles' heal. His brother's eyes stared shamefully to the ground, taking the words in obediently. So he continued. "You obviously think you're helping, but you're not. Whatever task, I can handle it myself." He declared coldly. Two pained orbs met his, remorse painted all over them as well as pain.

"I'm sorry…" He mumbled truthfully. Kaiba nodded curtly in approval. "I won't talk like that to Jou again." He promised.

"Good."

Silence. Neither knew what to say. One had something to speak of, but couldn't get it out. The other noticed this, and stared patiently down at the former.

"You have to go on Friday, Seto." Mokuba stated firmly. The brunet knitted his brow, wondering why this request was brought to the table. The younger noticed the silent question and began to speak once more. "She's going to be there. And Jou still might -"

"I know." Seto interrupted, but with a serene tone. One that also held the attitude of being non-caring at the moment.

"So you'll come?"

"No."

"Why?" The raven-haired boy asked, genuinely surprised.

"It's pointless, to start with. And I have no reason, either. It would simply be meaningless." Seto answered dully.

"This isn't like you, Seto! Why aren't you fighting!" Mokuba asked in a louder tone, hinting that the CEO should actually court Jounouchi in some way. The brunet smirked mentally at this. He had never been asked of his feelings for the blond by his brother, yet he seemed to know anyway. And he seemed fine with it as well. Very fine, indeed. For goodness' sake, Mokuba was almost outright trying to push them together! But neither of them spoke of the emotion in words, tiptoeing around the subject. Something he otherwise hated to do, but appreciated highly now.

"Calm yourself." Kaiba ordered, not liking the emotional conversation they were participating in.

"Well, I'm going." Mokuba stated with a determined look. Blue eyes stared blankly back. "And I'm going to take care of things for you brother. Until you get your senses back and take over." He declared just as determined as before. Seto's before unfazed expression slightly cracked, a frown disgracing his smooth features.

"I don't need you to do anything for me." He told his brother with a tone that hinted that he didn't want for Mokuba to do it either. The younger man's face softened, a small melancholy smile taking over his lips.

"Yes you do, Seto." Mokuba said in a low voice, staring at his brother with warm eyes. Blue eyes looked away.

"It's all a waste of time." Kaiba said as he intended to walk out of the room. Suddenly it was very compelling to go back to the dinner table just to get out of this uncomfortable discussion.

"I don't want you to end up all alone." His brother said softly as he passed him. The tall CEO came to a gentle halt, only his head turning around to observe his sibling. Mokuba did the same while wearing a troubled smile.

"Hmpf. Mokuba, I have decades yet to live. Don't worry about such petty things." His voice told in a manner that let the younger know that the CEO simply brushed it all off. A sigh was heard from the raven-haired one before the brunet continued. "Let's not waste anymore time here." And with that did he walk out, having every intention on going back to the dinner table. For there was where Jounouchi was. And if the fool was present, Mokuba would not make conversation about this pathetic matter. It was not anyone else's business in whether or not he decided to engage in romantic relationships.

Having his brother walk dully after him, they both reached the table. And what their eyes met was that all food was gone. The raven-haired boy gaped for a second, his plate shining with the absence of food.

"Jou!" Mokuba roared. "You ate my pizza!"

"Your fault for leaving! How could I say no? It was staring at me, saying 'Eat me, Jou! Eat me!'" Katsuya dramatically explained, which only angered the younger Kaiba even more, glaring full force. It was then the blond realized the seriousness of it all.

"Whoa kid! Calm down! Look, I left you some salad!" He said, a futile attempt to redeem himself. But Mokuba remained to frightfully glare at the blond, slightly fuming. "I have some leftovers! You can have them! I have lots of leftovers! Lots and lots!" Katsuya said with a loud voice, as if it would market his cause even more.

"Liar! You ate everything!" Mokuba almost growled out. The brunet simply observed this scenario with indifference plastered on his face.

"Yeah, but I've got some food!"

"Where?"

"My backpack!" Jounouchi stated triumphal as he grinned. His body slowly moved over the room, hands in air in height with his head to make sure Mokuba knew he wasn't playing any tricks or was about to run away.

"See! Here! Plenty! Just put it in the microwave, and enjoy the food made by yours truly!" The blond declared with a proud grin as he brought up plastic boxes that contained food. Leftovers from when they had had picnic earlier that day. The brunet smirked to himself, being reminded by it once more.

"If you had all this food, then why did you eat mine!" Mokuba complained angrily, causing the blond to scratch the back of his head in embarrassment.

"Err…well, I like pizza better."

"Hmpf." Mokuba said much like his older brother did at times. With a frown did he start to place different dishes on his plate however. At least it looked edible enough. "So why do have this much food anyway? Some kind of food contest in school, or do you always eat like a horse?"

"Oh…um…No. I don't usually take that much food…" Katsuya explained, avoiding to look at the younger one. Mokuba of course noticed this. As if Jounouchi could ever keep a straight face. Kaiba glared at the blond, daring him to reveal anything.

"So why did you?"

"Just…sharing with a friend today. That's all. To pay back. I owed them." He explained, less fidgety about it. Kaiba's glare lessened. It appeared Mokuba would not find out.

"A friend?" Mokuba asked suspiciously. Katsuya nodded. "What sort of friend?"

"Just a friend." Jounouchi said with a shrug, trying to look careless. Mokuba's sharp eyes narrowed, apparently not liking whatever scenario that he imagined. Before the truth would be revealed, Kaiba placed his hand on his brother's shoulder. Mokuba's eyes immediately shot upwards to meet his, in which the CEO could tell his brother not to dig deeper in the subject. All done with his gaze of course.

"Fine…" Mokuba grumbled reluctantly as he agreed and took his plate, intending on going to the microwave in the kitchen. He shot Jounouchi one last glare before doing so however. The blond simply grinned as innocently as he could.

XxxX

He should have expected it, really. He was a fool for not seeing it coming. Honestly, with this kind of situation, and that persisting brother of his it was no wonder things were like they currently were. Damn the fact that Mokuba can make plans as well! Wanting to glare at just about anything at the current moment, his eyes wandered to the blond man, who grinned happily back at him. Probably enjoying to see him suffer, he was sure. Naturally, his eyes glared irritably. And, of course, Katsuya didn't care one bit about that.

Last step of the staircase, luckily enough. The sooner he could get this over with, the better.

His tall figure guided the brown eyed man through the long corridor, leading him to the bedroom chosen in his mind.

"Ah, come on Kaiba. You look as if someone shot off your leg or something. Cheer up, will ya?" Jounouchi urged, his backpack slung over his shoulder. His hand was on his shoulder as his brown eyes looked amusedly into his. Seto merely snorted.

"Look, I can go home, you know. Just say the word, and I'm gone." Katsuya said, removing his hand to fold his arms and offer a minor glare. He was obviously agitated. The CEO's mood lightened.

"And risk having both you and Mokuba nag about this for the rest of the week? I think not." The brunet declared coldly as he looked at the other with cold eyes. But as he turned away he smirked to himself.

Why yes, Mokuba had managed to convince the CEO to have Jounouchi stay over. As in sleep over. In his house. All under the same roof.

Needless to say, the brunet was quite against it. He did not need to have Jounouchi somewhere in the house, probably destroying every item, as he woke up in the morning. As a matter of fact, he would probably lose sleep due to this, worrying over what the moron could possibly destroy.

But Mokuba had urged to say that 'This isn't a big deal' and 'It's really late, Seto. Just let him stay for the night.'. It wasn't that the CEO cared for either of these facts rather much. It wasn't that the brunet allowed Jounouchi to stay because he had 'a heart'. No. And it was certainly not because he secretly planned to make Jounouchi his during night time.

It was just convenient.

And that was all. For he was tired, it had been a long day with a lot of mental exhaustion due to Mokuba's first date, and he needed to rewind. If he were to wait for a cab to come and pick Jounouchi up, for he would most certainly not let the moron walk this late, he himself would have to wait as well for it. Because Mokuba would force him. This was a fact. He had done so last time.

He didn't need to waste time on waiting when he could do what he wanted instead. Therefore, his love interest remained within the household. And he was not happy about it. But if he disagreed, Mokuba would go in further and discuss the problematic situation concerning his romantic interest with him. Basically, he wouldn't leave him alone and keep on pestering him about the fact that he had to 'do something' to win Jounouchi over or whatever other goal Mokuba has in mind for him.

Besides, letting the moron stay over couldn't be such a bad thing. He was going to sleep in the room next to Mokuba. And Mokuba's room was in one end of the hall while his own room was in the other. Call it a need of personal space. All brothers alike need solitude from the other at times.

So there would be no harm. Jounouchi would sleep several meters away from him. Rooms away.

Then why did this still feel like such a bad idea?

His hand opened the door to the habitation in which the blond man would spend the night. He turned the lights on as well, stepping aside to let the other in. A whistle of awe was heard from Jounouchi, who walked around while grinning.

"Man, I can get used to this. Moneybags, you've got some nice stuff." He said as he threw the backpack to the ground and eyed the bed with interest. Blue eyes narrowed.

"You're not allowed to jump in it." He stated firmly.

"What? Why not? Stiff bastard…" Katsuya muttered, settling with sitting with folded arms at the end of it, staring at the brunet. Kaiba, who was at the opposite end of the room, was casually leaning against the wall, staring into brown eyes.

Suddenly he didn't feel so very tired. Shocking.

"So, where's the TV?" Katsuya suddenly asked, breaking their comfortable, and very enjoyable, silence mixed with gazing. Kaiba smirked arrogantly as he gently pushed himself from the wall and walked over to the bed. Brown eyes curiously followed his every move, wondering what he was up to.

His lean figure passed by Jounouchi's sitting one, and walked to the small table by the bed, opening a drawer and took out a remote. His eyes stared into Jounouchi's, still smirking proudly. The blond simply looked confused.

"So, you've got the remote. Who cares! Where's the TV?"

"Right here." He said as he pushed a special button, directing the remote to a large desk in front of the bed. Slowly, the top of the desk opened, and a flat screen elegantly rose up. Needless to say, Jounouchi was impressed.

"Cool!" And the CEO smirked, for he always liked it when he could show off and get praised for it.

"You can stop drooling now." Kaiba arrogantly commented, tossing the remote to Jounouchi's side on the bed.

"Shut up." Katsuya said in a bored tone, turning on the electronic to see if it worked. Which it did. Miraculously Jounouchi didn't need any guidance concerning how to properly handle the remote. Figures. The couch potato probably knew all about remote controls, he thought with a frown.

Sticking with some show in which cars were currently exploding in, Jounouchi quickly crawled to the other end of the bed to not be so close to the screen, resting his back against the pillows. His brown eyes turned to the brunet, who felt quite out of place at the moment.

"Come on. Sit and watch with me." Jounouchi demanded, a smile on his lips as his hand invitingly hit the place beside him to show where to sit. Seto glared, but sat down nevertheless. Though he did make sure to keep at his side of the bed quite obviously. Even if the bed was king-sized.

"I don't have rabies, you know." Jounouchi grumbled.

"I'm not planning on staying that much longer anyway." The brunet shrugged off. Why he had sat down to begin with was a impulse act he now regretted. Too weak for his own good was he, the ruler of a company, the ruthless one. Now he obeyed to yearning desires, stripped from his dignity. And now his brother knew of this? Where had this world gone? Where had he gone! Not himself, and not someone else. He hated this emotion with every fibre of his pitiful being.

And as he mentally scolded himself, Jounouchi watched the movie or series or whatever it could be, with intense eyes.

"So how do you feel? It wasn't that bad, now was it?" His voice suddenly asked out of the blue, taking him by surprise. Blue eyes looked to his side, trying to figure out if he had heard the man correctly. But Jounouchi still stared at the screen, not paying him any mind it seemed. Before he could question his sanity, the blond asked once more. "Well?"

"What the hell are you on about?" His voice was agitated, not liking to be distracted from thinking. Especially when it was for clueless discussions.

"Mokuba's date. It wasn't so bad, now was it? He survived, you survived, and no security men were needed." Jounouchi said with a joking tone towards the end of the sentence. The atmosphere around the blond man was calm and easy going, whilst the brunet still kept within his own reality, only seeing his own faults.

"So?"

"Well, you worried so much. Aren't you happy everything turned out alright?" It was fine for the moment, true. But one day Mokuba would experience the pain this infatuation brought with. The CEO simply hoped his brother wouldn't take it so badly then.

"Hmpf."

"You're just grumpy because love isn't as bad as you think, and you know it." The blond said, brown eyes turning to look at him. His voice carried such a tone he wasn't sure of it was serious or joking. Instantly Kaiba frowned at the other.

"One successful date proves nothing, Jounouchi." He stated simply, his eyes cold.

"I think it does."

"And what would that be?" Kaiba asked mockingly, snorting at the other. Aside from a glare, Jounouchi kept his calm, speaking in the same tone as before.

"It proves that love isn't always a bad thing. It made Mokuba happy, didn't it?"

"You're looking too deeply into such a moronic matter. Hormones, Jounouchi. That's all it is. Nothing more." He defended with folded arms, guarding himself unconsciously. It was uncomfortable for him to speak of this. It felt personal. And he had to defend his views, hiding the ironic fact that he had fallen deeper into this sickness than his brother.

"No it's not."

"Then what is it?" Seto asked, once again, mockingly. His frown was shining with disapproval of Jounouchi's thinking, clearly not agreeing one bit.

"I don't know."

"See. Even though you lack the knowledge of what love is, you still claim that I'm wrong, when I might as well be right."

"Love can't be explained like that! No emotion can!" Katsuya defended as he glared. "Why can't you see that?" He asked as brown eyes pierced into blue ones. A pause, then the brunet spoke, his voice not holding any taunt this time, free from emotion.

"I'm not a believer like you." For some reason, Jounouchi's eyes fell, his composure solemn. And no other word regarding this discussion came out of his mouth, claiming the CEO as the given winner. Maybe Jounouchi was in deep thought once more. The blond was never able to think deeply whilst having a conversation at the same time.

His blue eyes cast the other one last glance before he gracefully rose up, his back turned to the other man. Suddenly he was very aware of things, as one always were whenever an uncomfortable situation was forcefully bestowed upon them. And he didn't want to stay anymore.
"I'm going now." He politely informed, still not looking at the blond as he walked towards the door.

"Alright… Goodnight." He heard Jounouchi say softly, yet having a melancholic undertone.

He did not reply back, but simply exited the room, hoping to reach his own as soon as possible.

XxxX

His cheek felt a sudden hit, making his whole being aware of the world. With a jolt he shot up from his lying position, extremely shocked over what was happening. Another hit came, as well as shouting, but due to the fact that he was hit on his ear he could not fully comprehend the words. Animalistic instincts took over, adrenaline pushing away all former tiredness his body had succumbed to. Surviving was all.

"You fucking bastard! What is wrong with you!" Jounouchi's very angry voice shouted at him, his hands gripping onto a pillow in which he violently attacked the formerly sleeping CEO. Noting this, Kaiba immediately got a grip of himself, holding Jounouchi's hands so they remained immobile. Safe for now, his glare was dangerous, enormously agitated from having to wake up in the middle of the night due to some childish tantrum the blond was having.

"Let me go! Asshole! I'll kick your sorry ass!"

"What the hell is your problem!" Seto roared out at him, pushing the other down to the floor as he stood up. Jounouchi quickly shot himself up however, even angrier now than before. This time around though, he had the decency to not attack.

"My problem! You're the one with problems Kaiba! What the hell did I ever do to you!" Well, didn't this sound awfully familiar? Hadn't they already had a similar 'discussion' earlier that day when at school?

"Imbecile! I haven't done anything! Explain yourself!" He said aggressively, wanting some answers.

"The ghosts!" Jounouchi roared back at him, venom in his eyes, expecting the brunet to understand what everything was about with those two words. But, he didn't.

"What?"

"The ghosts! Or ghost. I don't fucking know! All I know is that you're a jerk!" Jounouchi exclaimed, hitting the CEO's chest to release some anger.

"What the hell are you talking about!" Kaiba asked once more, frustrated with the lack of information he was getting from being woken up so harshly when it was in the middle of the night.

"…You mean…you don't know?" Jounouchi's before angry voice had now gone down to a remarkably low one. It actually sounded slightly frightened, which would have amused him in another time and situation. Not in this one, however.

"Speak clearly, you incompetent idiot!"

"There's a ghost in my room! And I know you're behind it! Because you know how much I hate ghosts!" The hostility bounced back on him, both now glaring daggers at each other.

"I haven't set up any traps or holograms in your room! Why would I care about such a stupid thing!"

"So it's real!" Jounouchi's voice asked with high pitched tone. One that hurt the brunet's ears. Dammit, why on earth did the moron have to take out his nightmares on him!

"Jounouchi, there's no such thing as ghosts. Get over it." He shrug off, trying to not think of murdering his love interest. Seriously, Jounouchi was pushing it at times.

"Oh my God! There's a real ghost in my room!" The blond exclaimed in a panicked tone, pushing Kaiba out of his way as he quickly jumped onto the bed, hiding under the sheet. The brunet ripped them away, almost speaking through clenched teeth.

"What! Get out of my bed, you moron! Be scared somewhere else!"

"I'm not scared!" Jounouchi snapped. "I'm just hiding!"

"Get out of my room!"

"Get out yourself!"

"It's my damned room!"

"There's a ghost in mine! And he freaking wants to eat me!" The blond man defended, in which the brunet froze for a moment. His lips then could not resist to twitch upwards, smirking sinisterly.

"It's not funny!" Jounouchi defended as he glared. Seto paid little attention.

"Oh yes. It is." Seto assured in a composed manner, highly amused. But his expression turned cold in a second. "Now get your ass out of here."

"No! Didn't I tell you! I wants to eat me! Eat me! As in kill me! I'm too damned sexy to die!" Wanting to shout at the other with frustration, the CEO regained himself, forcing himself to be calm. If he was, maybe Jounouchi would be too. So after a slow breath, he made sure his voice was as calm and composed as it usually was.

"It was most likely only a dream. So get out."

"You're fucking insane if you think it was a dream! I was awake, Kaiba!" Jounouchi informed. "I knew this house was too good to be true! Of course it got ghosts!" Katsuya rambled, more so to himself rather than the brunet.

"You honestly believe that?" Kaiba asked in a mocking tone, looking down at the man on his bed with a scorn. The said man was also wearing nothing but his boxers, which would interest him greatly given another time and place. The CEO himself wore nothing other than that, but paid little attention to clothing at the moment, too angry for being ripped from his well deserved sleep.

"No! I just woke you up in the middle of the night because I felt like it!" Jounouchi snapped back sarcastically as he clenched his hands. Kaiba groaned mentally. Clearly, there was only one way to fix this mess.

"There's no such thing as ghosts. And I'm going to prove it to you." The brunet declared as he turned around, walking proudly over the floor to his door. In a second had Jounouchi reacted and sprinted to the door, standing in front of it to block it.

"What the hell do you think you're doing, Kaiba!"

"Proving to you that you have too much of a vivid imagination." And maybe even needs to be put in a mental institution. Why on earth had he fallen for this man to begin with!

"It's going to kill you, you idiot!" Katsuya warned dramatically. Nothing the CEO cared much for.

"Stop your whining! Get out of my way!" Seeing as the blond man did not obey to his order, he pushed him to the ground instead and opened the door, walking down the hall in nothing but his boxers. Though he had grown a bit worried, thinking there might be someone that had broken into his household. Which was why he needed everything to be absolutely quiet to be able to decipher any sound.

"Are you crazy! Get back here!" Jounouchi hissed out at him from the doorsill, contemplating whether or not to follow or to stay put. But since the CEO did not abide by his warnings, he made a sigh and sprinted after. Which only made the brunet more angry, since the man did not help in any department of being quiet.

"Kaiba, you're fucking insane." He grumbled, his brown eyes scanning the surroundings obsessively.

"Look who's talking."

"I'm not crazy! I swear it was real!"

"Sure it was."

"It's true!"

"Only one way to find out." The brunet said with a smirk as he stood in front of the closed door. But just as his hand was about to reach out and open it, Jounouchi's took a firm hold of it instead.

"Kaiba, I'm not playing around. I didn't even close the door after myself! Isn't this proof enough?"

"You've stalled me enough. Admit it, you just had a nightmare."

"No I didn't!" Jounouchi defended. But not liking to be hidden from the truth, he pushed Jounouchi away once more and opened the door.

The sheets were in a mess on the bed, indicating Jounouchi had left in a hurry or simply moved around a lot whilst sleeping. But other than that, there was nothing else in the room that caught his eye. With a frown he entered, looking around. His feet guided him over the carpets of the floor, providing temporary warmth for them.

"There's nothing here." Kaiba stated after a while, keeping his tone in a bored manner. His eyes glared however.

"But…but I heard it! I swear!" Katsuya pleaded, but gained no trust from the brunet.

"Go to sleep, idiot." He ordered, brushing past the other and closed the door after himself. It wasn't until he stood in the hall once more that he felt a strange feeling of regret. But he brushed it off immediately, not thinking much of how frightened Jounouchi probably was at the moment. He didn't even have a good enough reason to care. Least of all to fall in love for. And all feelings had reason. Why couldn't he find one for those that concerned Jounouchi?

Not quite done with his investigating, he walked to a close by wall that contained a small computer.

"Seto Kaiba." His voice said, alerting the machine, waking it to life.

"Good morning, Mr Kaiba." The voice of a woman answered back, even though it was merely a technical feature through and through. "What can I help you with?"

"Scan the mansion for temperature. Tell me how many bodies that are currently inside." He ordered. A red small lamp was activated on the small electronic, proving it was working and could not be disturbed. He waited patiently.

"I have only registered three bodies. Yours, Mokuba Kaiba's and an unknown." So there was no burglar or kidnapper? Good.

"Unknown is Katsuya Jounouchi. Save information." He ordered.

"Information successfully saved."

"Shut down." His final words were. His creation obeyed immediately.

His body turned around, ready to walk away. Blue eyes turned around one last time however, observing the two doors. Jounouchi's was closed, just as he had left it. And Mokuba's slightly ajar, showing the complete darkness that was inside his room. With a frown did he turn around, leaving the empty hall to gain energy.

It was with a absolute sense of overpowering contentment that he felt as his body sunk into his familiar bed, knowing full well it was merely a matter of seconds before his mind would stop being aware of the world around him, giving him peaceful bliss. Not resisting the shutdown at all, he felt himself slipping away, heavy lids proving to be too difficult to hold up.

That is, until he was disturbed. Again.

A distinctive clearing of a throat claimed his attention as he brought himself to a sitting position, trying to look as normal as possible. Even if his eyes must have red streaks and his hair being extremely tousled. Still he tried his hardest to look as angry and awake as possible.

"Ehm…" Jounouchi said unsurely, his foot kicking some imaginary stone on the floor. Due to nervousness, he scratched the back of his head whilst grinning. Appearing to try and ease the situation. Which of course didn't help the CEO, who simply wanted to get everything over and done with for the night.

"What!" Kaiba asked in a hostile tone. Stalling was not what he wanted to do. It took too much time.

"I just…well…"

"Still scared of the ghost? Dammit Jounouchi! What are you? Four!"

"Am not! I don't care about them stupid ghosts! I can kick their ass any day!" The blond exclaimed with folded arms, giving a defiant look. "I just came to see if you were alright. That's all…" The brunet snorted mentally at the obvious lie. Jounouchi was still scared and came to seek some sort of protection. Even if that idea did provide him with a sense of inner pride and amusement, his irritated persona was still dominating his attitude.

"How brave of you to look out for my well-being when some imaginary creature is roaming the mansion." Seto replied dully. Brown eyes simply glared as he growled, yet not continuing the verbal sparring.

"Whatever." Katsuya muttered as he closed the door behind him, definitely alerting that he would very well stay. Seto was just about to complain that he liked his personal space in the bed and that Jounouchi should go bother someone else, before seeing that the other man actually didn't go for his bed. No. The fool simply sat down, resting his back against a wall, trying to sleep, bringing up his legs to keep himself warm. The moron didn't even bring a pillow or a sheet.

His eyes stared in disbelief, partially insulted. Wasn't he good enough to share a bed with now? Hmpf. This was insulting. But, deciding his humanity could be used some other day, he closed his eyes, hoping to gain his very well deserved sleep. Dammit, how many times had he not been robbed by it by now!

And he twisted and turned in his comfortable, expensive bed. It gave him all the warmth he needed, all the comfort necessary to fall asleep. Yet he couldn't. Because he was too occupied with thinking of how wrong it was for Jounouchi to sleep on the floor.

And his rain check concerning his humanity was immediately cancelled. For this concerned his sleep, his energy level. And he'd be damned if he would not rest!

So with a low groan he lifted his upper body, opening his by now very tired eyes. Exhausted was the only way to possibly describe him. He hated to be interrupted while sleeping. His body functioned based on routine. There were certain sacred hours of the day he needed. Jounouchi should be happy he's still alive. Ungrateful imbecile.

"You damned moron." He complained, glaring angrily. Though it must look really pathetic as he had a hard time keeping his eyes open. Luckily, the dark covered his faults up a bit. "You can't sleep like that."

"Why not!" Jounouchi defied, muttering with a slightly pissed off undertone.

"Because it's stupid." Not the best come-back, but he was too tired at the moment. He could think up something better in the morning.

"I'm not leaving!" The blond informed, glaring back. The brunet, too tired to argue strangely enough, resisted the urge to rub his temples and settled for a heavy sigh instead.

"Imbecile…just get into bed." Kaiba's calm voice ordered. Katsuya could not look more confused.

"…Eh?"

"I don't repeat myself!" The brunet stated rather angrily, his defence mechanism of doing a so-called 'good deed' kicking in, covering up his nice act with his usual behaviour. Still carrying his angry attitude, he lied down once more, trying to get some sleep. His body on one side of the bed, giving the other his necessary room.

"Fine, fine!" Jounouchi surrendered, hesitantly walking to the bed, scared almost. As if the CEO would suddenly jump up and frighten him. But he didn't. No, he stubbornly remained immobile on his side, his back turned towards Jounouchi. He would not look. He would sleep. And that was all.

"Um…goodnight then." The blond said hesitantly. He felt the brown orbs boring into his neck, but he ignored it. His only response was a snort before letting silence take over the scene. The stiff body of the blond man was easy to notice. Did he even move? No, Jounouchi did not even make the smallest turn. So either he was extremely uncomfortable, or he was staring up at something, or maybe -

Why the hell did he care!

This thinking served no purpose, why was he listening to Jounouchi breathe? Why did his mind trick him into feeling warmer, just because another body had entered the bed? They weren't even that close to begin with! No body part touched the other! Love was such a unnecessary force of stupidity he did not want, need nor deserved.

"Kaiba?" Katsuya's voice whispered out, calling his name. The brunet pretended to not hear. Pretended to sleep. He didn't feel like dealing with whatever Jounouchi had in mind.

"Kaiba? You awake?" The blond asked again, a hand now gently shaking his shoulder. But no, the CEO refused to acknowledge him, still pretending. Could the moron not tell he did not want to talk!

Perhaps if Jounouchi fell asleep first, he'd be able to as well. It just felt uncomfortable sleeping in the same bed as another person. Needless to say, a sense of paranoia bestowed upon him, grew based on uncertainty. He could not fall asleep until he was 'safe'. And that he wouldn't be until Jounouchi was unconscious. In order to reach that, there needn't be any communicating.

Of course, a side of him knew that Jounouchi would not do anything to him as he slept, such as painting his face or whatever else that childish mind could produce. But he was not used to this sort of sharing of personal space. Would he be too paranoid to even fall asleep at all tonight? How he had managed to carelessly fall asleep in the sofa was a mystery to the young CEO.

As he pondered to himself, the body of the other moved, he quickly noticed. His eyes opened and widened, his muscles stiffened. It was clear Jounouchi was inching closer. What for? Unsure of what was happening, he immediately found himself to not like it, whatever it was. And before he knew it, body heat brushed against his naked back. Skin meeting skin. He could feel the even breathing behind him caress his neck. Out of the blue, an arm placed itself around his waist, lying there loosely.

Given too much to digest, he could not take it.

"What the hell are you doing!" He shouted and jerked away from Jounouchi. In turn, Jounouchi shrieked due to surprise, jerking away from the brunet as well, covering his body with the sheet. As if the brunet was a monster he should hide from.

"Aah! Why the hell are you awake!" The blond asked, or rather shouted, his eyes looking absurdly insecure at the moment.

"Answer the damned question!" Kaiba demanded instead.

"Um…I…"

"Well!"

"Err…well…you see… There's a perfectly good explanation for this!" Katsuya promised. This did not lighten up the CEO at all however, wearing a serious frown on his face.

"Let's hear it then."

"I…I just…got a little 'scared' and all by the ghost, you could say. And…it was sort of nice to have someone to…well…um…you know." Jounouchi explained, his eyes darting all over the room except the blue eyes that stared at the brown ones. Eventually, as his voice faded, Jounouchi simply ended up staring down at his lap, his fingers nervously playing with one another. Blue eyes continued to stare, not quite sure what to think of this.

"But don't worry about that. I promise I'll keep on my side of the bed. In fact, if I come close, you can kick me out of the bed if you want. No problem!" He said with a nervous grin, scooting as far away from the brunet as possible. Seto found he quite liked that he went away, giving him an opportunity to sleep.

But, as always, he just had to feel damned bad about it.

It was starting to be irritating, actually. Guilt was not his friend.

"Fine…" Seto muttered, making a sigh that made him come off as if he were to spend the rest of his life in jail. "You can be…close." He really had to force the words out, didn't he?

Such a fool was he, even if one counted his genius. Playing with fire was not safe. He knew that the other man seemed to feel something for him. Yet he encouraged the behaviour, even though he did not want anything to happen. Complicating things that could have been so simple, he entangled himself in his own rules and morals. Stuck like a fly in a spider's web, he could do nothing but give in. He had made himself the prey and the hunter at the same time.

"W-what?" Jounouchi's surprised voice asked, his face peeking out from the sheet. The brunet glared with his red shot eyes. Why did the fool want him to repeat every invitation he ever said! Due to irritation, he snorted. Jounouchi started to grin then, looking very confident in himself. The CEO didn't quite like this change. Deciding that Jounouchi now could decide for himself whether or not he wanted to sleep on the edge of the bed or close to him, he lied down once more. And yet again, his back was against the other, showing off his standoffish attitude.

Moving on his knees, Jounouchi got closer. That grin was still plastered on his face, he could feel it. And he hated it. So he frowned, dreading what would come as if it was cancer. The body finally made a stop next to his own, but instead of lying down it refused to obey to such a thing. Jounouchi was sitting next to him, looking down at the side of the CEO's face. Blue eyes opened, glaring up at the man that changed everything in his life it seemed.

"What the hell is it now?"

"You know, Kaiba…" Katsuya started out, fully ignoring the hostility in the brunet's voice. "for being this person who only wants to be alone, you sure spend a lot of time with me." Jounouchi mused.

"Don't flatter yourself. I just don't find it efficient enough to push you away when you keep coming back." Kaiba excused in a calm manner. The blond gave a lopsided smile, brown eyes appearing anything but tired. What was wrong with the fool!

"You know, at first I thought you had changed or something." Katsuya mused out loud again, his fingers starting to trail over Seto's arm. Blue eyes watched the action with hawk eyes.

"You're depriving me of my sleep. Leave me alone." Kaiba commanded coldly, pushing the hand away and closed his eyes, proving he would sleep with or without Jounouchi's approval.

"Ah, aren't you just one big softy?" Katsuya teased, his body leaning closer. His two hands were on either side of the CEO, holding Katsuya up as he leaned down. He could feel how close Jounouchi was for his breath stroke his cheek, warning him. Yet he refused to give in, persisting in ignoring the man now placed above him. "Anyhow, where was I? Oh right." Katsuya said, opening his mouth to start his sentence.

"Hn. Jounouchi, are you going to throw one of those friendship speeches?" He asked with a smirk, looking up into brown eyes.

"Maybe." Jounouchi answered with a mysterious voice, a mischievous smirk gracing his lips.

"Don't. I'm tired." Kaiba coldly dismissed.

"But I have to say it now, or I might never say it."

"Well, silence is golden." Kaiba urged, wanting nothing more than to have the other shut up at the moment.

"Shut it! I'm saying all this while risking that your ego blows up!" He said with a raised voice before calming himself with a sigh. "Anyway, as I was saying. I thought that you had really changed since we started to hang out you know. Because you're nice now. Well…sometimes anyway." Jounouchi said with a chuckle. "But now, I'm starting to think that's not the case here."

"Then what is the case here?" The brunet asked with a bored voice, hiding the very slight interest he held.

"I think that maybe you've been like this all along. That you haven't changed at all. You've just let me see another side of you." He declared with a soft smile, his brown eyes looking down into his blue ones. It was almost comforting. Or maybe that was just his tiredness talking.

"Jounouchi, you're too emotional for your own good." Kaiba muttered, a sentence the blond skilfully ignored.

"And I like that you've let me in…because those walls of yours really ain't all that good for you." He reminded, in which Kaiba mentally rolled his eyes. Fool. What did he know?

"It's nice to actually see that you're human. You're not as perfect as you make yourself out to be. And I like that." Katsuya said with a secure smile, his eyes practically radiating affection. But the CEO was still wondering whether or not to take the sentence as an insult or compliment.

"I should have assumed that you would be the one to first appreciate any flaws I carry." Seto responded dryly with a stoic face. His words only caused the towering man to frown.

"You're taking it the wrong way."

"Enlighten me then. What is the right way?"

"It's good to not be perfect." What? How the hell could that be 'good'? Imbecile. Why did he even expect Jounouchi to have the intelligence to know of what a state of absolute power perfection is? Just because Jounouchi would never, and had never, achieve it, he seemed to dislike the idea like any other person in the world realizing their limits. Pity. Sometimes he wanted to trick himself into thinking that Jounouchi wasn't like other people. "Nobody likes perfect people anyway." Jounouchi said to ease the atmosphere, his lips curving upwards.

"I can live with that." Kaiba murmured, though more so to himself. The words left the two not knowing what to say, the conversation previously hold had been put down. Blue eyes had wandered to other places beside the man above him, but returned nevertheless, staring into brown ones for a while. Jounouchi stared back, their bodies still close, warming each other.

He didn't know what he wanted more. Either it was to have Jounouchi. Fully, that is. Not this messed up form of a friendship that apparently had no intimacy issues. Or did he want to rid of these feelings even more? Both options were appealing, both held perks. And his mind continued to crumble, growing aware neither was ever going to happen. These feelings were persistent. He had already tried to erase them without any sign of success. And a relationship was…well… It would be admitting failure. He had tried so hard resisting. To give in would ultimately prove his weakness and show everyone he was flawed. For only weak people cared for others. He was lucky. He had only had Mokuba. Until Jounouchi decided to ruin that, that is. Always forcing his way to him, Kaiba mused.

He smirked as his eyes still connected with the pair above him. Responding to his dysfunctional part of his brain, a hand of his steadily lifted, targeting the waist he had grown accustomed to touching. The skin he met did not object to his greeting, allowing him whatever it was that he intended to do.

They continued to not speak. It was oddly comforting. Talking could lead to truths being revealed. And he did not want that. No, far from. He could live a lie as long as he knew it was a lie.

Unexpectedly, Jounouchi pushed his body forward while lowering it as well, his forehead ending up resting against the brunet's. Both pair of eyes were closed, and it reminded Kaiba of just how tired he actually was. Stroking the naked back one last time, his hand then trailed up to Katsuya's shoulder, taking a hold of it and pushing him away slightly. A confused expression was the reaction Jounouchi had to it, looking quite unsure of what was going on. But he offered no explanation, simply turning to lie on his side. His back was once again turned to face Jounouchi, and he made his body relax. As his eyes closed he figured Jounouchi would understand he was going to sleep and would therefore not be pestered by questions and rants from the other. Well, he had been right. Yet he was not. Sometimes he assumed too much, he thought amusedly to himself.

Supported by leaning on one elbow, Jounouchi lied down behind the CEO. But his upper body was not resting on the bed as his legs were. Instead he insisted on being nauseatingly close, his nose tip, which was slightly cold, brushing against his cheek. Fingers slowly stroked his hair without any sort of pattern. It felt more sensual than it usually did between them. Granted, they were both in their underwear which might solely have done the trick. But would it be that bad to wish there might be another reason, whatever it may be?

At the same time, he felt at ease. The slow caresses made him shiver in delight, loving the pleasure brought to him by such a simple and innocent act. Though innocent was not really a word to describe this scene with. That adjective had been long forgotten ever since they got close. For some reason they always had a hard time keeping apart, drawn to each other like magnets. To be one step away was all needed to evoke and awaken his yearning.

He gave Jounouchi so much power, now that he come to think of it. It was unnatural for him, but he did it anyway. Love had made him unreasonable. Soon he would fall asleep with Jounouchi beside him for the second time, something he had never done with another person before. Not counting the few times he had shared a bed with Mokuba, of course. But he was family. It didn't count.

"I know you're awake." The soft, whispering voice murmured into his ear, warming it in the process. His breath continued to kiss his skin. The brunet only smirked.

"So do I." He could feel Jounouchi smile, even if it wasn't against his skin. Somehow he could anyway.

"For someone bitching about wanting to sleep you sure don't take the opportunity." His voice teased, his face brushing against his own.

"Well, try to have someone hang over your head when you're about to sleep. Not really effective." He explained, smirking from his own amusement. Even if he should be rightfully pissed off that Jounouchi was yet again keeping him from sleep. A soft chuckle escaped the blond man's lungs.

"Sorry. I can -" The slightly shorter man said, his fingers still combing the brown hair. But he was interrupted.

"No." Kaiba stated firmly. The grin above him was nerve-wracking. "And don't read anything into it." He added, just to be sure.

"Why not?" Katsuya asked teasingly, his fingers trailing down to Kaiba's neck and throat. The shivers multiplied. "Would I find something too interesting if I did?"

"Of course not." Kaiba denied. His words born from a lie, as a lie. Though he was not certain if Jounouchi believed him or not, but he did not question it either. In lack of a response, neither said anything after that. Jounouchi was now practically lying on top of him, his face finding itself drawn to the CEO's. Fingers continued to bring enjoyment to Kaiba, preventing him from wanting to fall asleep, yet tiring him at the same. Closeness at its prime, he almost didn't want to escape this scenario. Lonely nights had been his life. Now this change turned everything around. And even if he complained about it, he still didn't.

He could hear Jounouchi drawing his breath, apparently preparing to say something. The CEO was slightly disappointed with this, having enjoyed the silent communication between their bodies better than words. Then again, Jounouchi would probably never stop talking, as far as he knew.

"I know you don't really believe in people, but…" Katsuya whispered, his voice solemn. But fingertips soothed him, as well as Jounouchi's naked chest against his side and arm. Right now, the brunet was too blunted too care. The man above him paused in his speaking, making the man underneath start to think he had forgotten what to say. Though it was not the case, he soon found out.

"I'd never hurt you, Kaiba." Jounouchi's low voice promised all of a sudden, causing him to wonder why. But he lacked the energy to ask over the matter, taking this as yet another friendship rant from the other man. So he remained with his eyes closed, absorbing the words and touches exposed to him. At the moment, Jounouchi's fingers were transfixed with his jaw line it seemed.

"And I'd never do what Arisu did…" Jounouchi continued, his voice still in the same tone. But the subject this time was not. Arisu 'cheated' on him. Why would Jounouchi mention such a thing? Unless, of course, he was advertising himself…as a candidate of a future relationship.

Was this the time to fall asleep, or at least pretend to have?

"…Never." Katsuya repeated sincerely.

He felt the hot breaths coming closer against his cheek, indicating the distance was shortening. It was steady and calm, yet so alarming. He could feel Jounouchi's lips being so close they accidentally brushed against him, teasing him. Warning him. But he remained still, torn between his sanity and love. Hesitation was clear, for both of them. Time was frozen like that for seconds, neither moving a muscle.

And then it happened.

Two lips he had come to yearn to kiss suddenly pressed against his cheek. His heart nearly stopped, which his breathing did, shock overpowering his other senses. A nervous feeling started to take place in his stomach, and he felt every limb of his body starting to tense. Blue eyes immediately shot open, staring straight ahead of him, right into the wall. A look of disbelief was over his face. Then his heart reawakened, beating with a much faster pace than normally.

It did not feel all that bad, even if one counted in all the physical changes his body went through in a matter of seconds. He liked it…

Yet he felt so uncomfortable with it. For some reason, his arms longed to push the other man off him, away.

He wished Jounouchi would have never done this stupid move. Fool.

He wished he could do something to respond, instead of being immobile from shock.

He wished nothing in their relationship would change, for he felt comfort in their so-called friendship. Changing comfortable aspects of his life was thought as unnecessary.

So time had ceased to exist for him, entrapped within this moment of doubt and bliss, mixing and blending. Confusing and creating solutions and thoughts. Fear rushed in his veins, pumped out from his heart. This situation he could not control. Powerless, stripped of all sense of ability to bend it to his will.

But he would try. Never did he give in. Kaibas' don't give in to useless desires.

His eyes fixated on a spot on the wall right in front of him as he still lied on his side dumbly. As a few eternal seconds had passed him by, Jounouchi's lips lifted. Going away from his skin that would always remember the feeling. From the corner of his eye, he saw the grin placed on the blond man. A grin born of happiness. But he would kill it. That was his duty.

Blonde hair fell in front of the brown eyes that gazed down at him with half-closed lids. The distance between their faces was still small, but now there were to be no accidental brushing of neither lips nor nose. Anticipation and obvious eagerness was painted in the brown orbs, waiting for a reaction. Yet the brunet remained staring at the wall, ignoring the man above him who's breath assaulted his skin in the most enjoyable way possible.

Slowly the cheerful disposition of Jounouchi descended down to nothing. Rejection was always hard. And it made sure to corrode its way through the hope that was so easily destroyed.

Coming to terms with this, Katsuya's lips was brought to a thin line, pressing against themselves. His expression darkened, appearing disappointed for obvious reasons. With a sigh from the heart did he reluctantly force himself off the brunet and lied down on the bed instead, attempting to catch some sleep. Their backs were facing each other, for the CEO could not feel any breath against his skin.

Refusing to let emotions take over, he clenched his jaw, never letting go of beholding the wall. It was hard to breathe, and a heavy heart did not make things better.

Everything felt so cold now.

He was sure that minutes passed. His previous exhaustion was long gone, something forgotten. All he could focus on was what had happened. Jounouchi god damn kissed him! It was safe to say all that could have been seen as remotely innocent had clearly been thrown out the window by now.

And where did that leave them? Nowhere.

Damned imbecile! Why did he have to destroy everything! Everything was fine! And now it wasn't. Yes, the brunet truly hated when things he appreciated was ripped from him without his permission.

Even though their distance between their bodies could not be that long, it still felt he was miles away from Jounouchi. It was awfully lonely all of a sudden. A feeling he brought on himself, he knew.

Remorse clouded his judgement and guilt poisoned his mind shamelessly. It left him weak.

Despite knowing better, his pale body slowly turned around, trying to not make any noise nor shifts in the bed. An impossible task, seeing as how easy anything could be heard in this tragic silence. He knew Jounouchi had heard him.

His eyes stared blankly at the back facing him. Or rather, the mop of hair and sheet covering the man under it. As always, his inside did not like having the blond upset like this. Even if it was he that inflicted that pain. But he felt no pride in knowing that.

He could hurt him. That was something he would have easily used against Jounouchi if this would have been prior this love. But now everything had changed. And just as he hated upsetting Mokuba, there was a familiar feeling to this as well. Though his love for Jounouchi would never come close nor surpass that of which he held for his brother, it was still more than he had ever felt for anyone else before.

Pathetic, really.

If it had not been for the circumstances, he would think that Jounouchi was already asleep. But there was little chance he had gone into slumber so close after rejection. Blue eyes turned solemn, regretting his previous actions. Or rather, lack of action. But…he was not ready to surrender to love. Not in that way.

But this tense atmosphere would do them no good either.

With a sigh, he drew closer to the other body in front of him. The warmth of the other radiating like the moon's pale light in the night. Some parts of their bodies were brushing against one another, and he could hear the intake of air that occurred on behalf of the blond when feeling this. Deciding to redeem himself, his arm firmly found its way over to Jounouchi's body, resting over his waist. A secure yet comfortable hold. He could feel the blonde tense up, most likely shocked.

"This means nothing." Kaiba stated, his eyes closed. The last thing he needed was Jounouchi thinking that they were an item just because of this.

"Kaiba…" Jounouchi breathed out, appearing to want to know something. But the brunet had wasted too much time on talking this night, and was not prepared to lose more seconds of possible rest.

"Shut up. I'm trying to sleep." He stated in a low voice, throwing away the topic, whatever it could have been. Miraculously, the other man didn't scold him nor disobey. Instead, silence roamed the scene.

As their bodies laid close together, his face close enough to smell the wonderful scent of Jounouchi's hair, his muscles slowly relaxed, dragging him to a sleep well deserved.

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To Be Continued...

Words: 23 605
What was that, doctor? I have an obsession with typing? Huh? Wherever did you get that crazy idea from? ...Hey, what do you mean 'I need vacation from my keyboard'! Give me back my keyboard!

Ah, major things happened in this chapter. To start off with, Mokuba went on a date. What I then tried to show was that Seto needs to let go of his brother. They depend too much on one another (which I find beautiful, but Mokuba needs to grow his own life), and with the help of Katsuya he can slowly start to let the death grip go (as shown when he got Kaiba to stay in the mansion, indicating he has the expertise to handle him whenever upset about his younger brother).

Then Mokuba's date functioned as in showing Kaiba that love can be happy too, not just as dark and gloomy as he percieves it to be. Even if they're just experiencing kiddie crushes (Mokuba and Aiko), it's still a form of love. And since the date went well, it indicates a sign of hope for love to bring joy, and not pain. Which is something Seto needs to grasp. He did not fully do this now, however.

And Jounouchi has been shown as the ever loyal one. It is because Seto can not (in my mind at least) let himself go if he can not be with someone whom he trusts (but we have already been shown that he does trust Jounouchi. Remember the blindfold? Not something he would have done with anyone else). So I find it vital to show Jounouchi's loyal sides, which are the ones most desireable to Kaiba (who really needs someone that'll never betray him, unlike every other person except Mokuba).

And about the whole Mokuba and Kaiba ordeal... I wanted to show Mokuba's care, love and loyalty (there I go again with the loyalty heh) he has for his brother (mainly through wanting Jou to date Seto and encouraging both of them to do so, in his own "subtle" ways). When at the couch, he confronted his brother about him having his hand on Jou's butt, not because he wanted to force Seto to confess, but rather to joke around. He would in no way betray his brother like that. But imagine yourselves in his shoes; you come home, see your older sibling lying in couch with a friend (who there has been some fishy business going on between them for a while) groping his ass, and the "friend" moans back. Anyone would obviously believe they had in fact started to date or started some form of relationship. THAT confession of a relationship was what Mokuba thought he would get. However, since I can not show his POV, I thought I'd explain it here instead. So no one will think "what a little jerk he is!", because he's not. -snuggles Mokuba, whom I love-

And so we finally have a kiss. Dammit, it took some time. I hope you're all happy. Or at least feeling slightly positive about it. I liked writing it, because of Kaiba's reaction. But maybe that's just me. At least I gave you all a fluffy ending of this chapter. Wohoo! Hail the fluff (and angst!)

So now there's only one chapter left. Unless it gets too long. I'll split it in two then. Just so you all know.

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Should I really try to convince you all to review? I should? Fine. Please, leave an opinion. I'd like to know what you think of this story!