Chapter 5- The Ship of Theseus
Kaiba and Salem ran out of the portal and into her home lab. The portal closed behind them and they dropped to their knees, breathing heavily.
Safe.
Finally safe.
Kaiba retched and emptied his stomach onto the cement floor. He was dizzy and upset, the events he witnessed were unsettling.
Within two hours, he'd seen Atem alive, Salem as a sex slave, and himself as man he never wanted to become.
He'd also seen Salem's alternate kill Atem and himself.
Good God.
Kaiba rolled over on his back. He gazed up at the ceiling, the room spun violently around him.
He jolted as helt felt freezing cold water splash against his body.
He shouted and stood upright, glaring at Salem, who was holding a bucket.
"What? You needed it, mish kida?"
Kaiba scoffed and stood up, grabbed Salem, and threw her onto her work bench.
"What the hell was that?!" Kaiba yelled, inches from Salem's face.
She remained stoic and calm as she leaned back on her hands and held Kaiba's gaze.
"What do you mean, Tanin? You vomited on my floor and you looked ready to faint, I had to do something?"
Kaiba turned away from Salem and crossed his arms.
Everything about that experience was awful.
All he wanted tonight, was to see Salem and to feel at ease. Not to go on a misadventure to the multiverse, and hear Atem get shot.
"Why would you take me to a place like that? Did you think I wanted to lose Atem again?"
Salem rolled her eyes and hopped off of her work bench. She took off her jacket and placed it on one of the nearby hooks.
She silently walked out of the room, followed by an increasingly angry Kaiba.
He seethed quietly as he followed her into her living room. She slipped her shoes off and threw herself onto the large couch.
Kaiba stood over her, his clothes clinging to his body uncomfortably, waiting for a response.
Her forearm was draped over her eyes and she took slow, deep, controlled breaths.
"Are you going to stand over me all night or would you like to change into something dry?"
Kaiba was fuming. Was she serious right now? She was acting as if they had just run a mile, but the reality was that they both could have been killed.
"Not until you answer me. I didn't want to see myself die, and I definitely didn't want to finally see Atem again, only for you to kill him-"
"Ah ah, Tanin, I did not kill him. Sala did." She said, raising her arm and examining her nails, clearly detached from any of Kaiba's concerns.
"Why are you talking about her like she isn't you?!" Kaiba said, screaming at this point.
"Theseus, Tanin. She isn't me, that Kaiba wasn't you, and that wasn't your Atem so you didn't lose anyone."
"What the fuck are you talking about?! Are you completely batshit?"
Salem rolled her eyes and sat up, remaining composed.
"Tanin. The Ship of Theseus."
"What is that?" Kaiba said, trying to calm himself down.
"How do you not know about this? Metaphysics?"
Kaiba's attempts to calm himself were becoming just that. Salem's attitude towards his reaction is making him want to storm out and drive home in his wet clothes.
"What about that promise you made to your brother? Are you really going to end things with the only person you've ever connected with since Atem, just because she's smarter than you are?"
Salem sighed and leaned back into the couch.
"Let me ask you this, Tanin. Did you feel anything towards the Atem in that reality? Any familiar feelings?"
Kaiba remained silent. He knew that the answer was no, but it was still Atem, and he still saw a version of himself die.
Salem smirked and continued.
"And would you, being the person you are now, ever return your company to its violent past?"
Kaiba crossed his arms and stood his ground, wondering where she was going with these questions.
"I can tell from your silence that your answer is no. You didn't feel anything, unless it was disgust, for that version of Atem because that's not the same person. That one went through different experiences that made him change into that monster you saw."
"And what about my corruption?"
"It's the same. That version of you has gone through different experiences, made different choices, to become that disgusting man. You see, Tanin, we as individuals, always have a choice. They may not be the easiest or best options, but you always have the power to choose. No one can take that from you."
Kaiba thought over her words carefully. He understood that the reality they were in was just that, an alternate reality. But, seeing what he saw was still deeply disturbing. He wondered why Salem wasn't more unsettled seeing herself almost raped with the barrel of a gun.
He walked over to Salem and sat on the couch, not caring about getting the leather wet.
Kaiba sighed deeply and leaned back, staring up at the ceiling.
"I understand, Salem. But you have to admit, seeing yourself almost raped was just as unsettling."
"Not really, Tanin. I've been exploring the multiverse for a long time, there's really nothing that could surprise me at this point. I was mainly shocked that I was apart of your life in that reality, albeit in a fucked up way." She said, with a light chuckle.
Kaiba looked at her in disbelief. This woman was more jaded than him, no wonder they got along.
Salem stood up from the couch and held her hand out towards Kaiba. He took her hand, not caring where she was leading him. Anything was better than what they had just went through. He was exhausted.
She took him to her bedroom and led him to the bathroom. Sitting on the ledge of the large soaking tub, she ran the warm water, testing it with her fingers.
Kaiba looked around the bathroom and realized that in haste during his last visit, he never took in the surroundings.
The tile was white and grey marble to match the white walls and high ceilings. The towels matched accordingly.
How plain.
The all white scheme of the bathroom didn't match the rest of her eclectic bedroom.
Salem saw him staring at the walls and walked toward one of the white cabinets. As she was rummaging around, Kaiba thought it best to bring up the article.
"Did you see the pictures of us?"
He looked at Salem's back as she set out two towels and different salts and oils. She stayed silent as she went over to the tub with a glass bottle of pink salt.
Kaiba tried to read her expression as she poured the salt into the steaming water. The smell of jasmine filled the air, along with a more masculine scent of sandalwood.
"Yes, tanin, I saw. Anansi showed me this morning." She said as she swirled her hand in the water, making sure the salt was dissolved.
Of course.
Of course that asshole had showed her.
Kaiba watched as Salem wiggled her toes on the plush white bath mat, her white painted nails matching beautifully.
"And what do you think we should do about it?" Kaiba asked, not exactly sure how to tell her that he wanted to make things public between them.
Oh God.
What if she thought there was nothing between them?
What if this was all a fucked up game she was playing with him?
He snapped back to his thoughts when he heard Salem shutting off the water.
"Tanin...Do you even like me?"
What?
Even she has doubts?
Kaiba ran his hand through his half dried locks and sighed.
"Of course I do."
He joined her on the ledge of the tub and put his hand on her thigh.
"I've never dated anyone before, tanin. But, I'd like to spend more time with you, in that way."
Kaiba moved in closer and slid his hand further up her thigh.
"Me too, Salem."
Salem stood up and slowly went over to the sink. She held up a blue toothbrush and smiled at Kaiba.
"First thing before we relax, your vomit breath, mish kida."
Kaiba scoffed and joined her at the sink, snatching the toothbrush from her hand.
As he mechanically started brushing his teeth, he watched Salem's reflection in the mirror.
She peeled off her clothes slowly and stepped out of her pants, now completely naked.
Kaiba's eyes were glued to her body as she stepped into the large bath, sinking into the water excruciatingly slow.
He rinsed his mouth and gazed at her beautiful face. It changed from a hard neutral to one of bliss.
She let out a happy sigh as she sunk in the rest of the way, leaning her head back against the white stone.
"Are you going to come in, Tanin? Or would you rather watch me bathe myself?" She said with a smirk as Kaiba finally turned to face the tub.
He felt his cheeks grow hot.
This woman was going to be the death of him.
Kaiba took off his wet clothes, making a mental note to always bring an overnight bag when he has a date at Salem's manor.
He strode over to the tub and took extra care getting into the hot water, knowing Salem was eyeing every part of his body.
He leaned back and looked in Salem's eyes. She was deep in thought, not really looking at Kaiba.
They were silent. The water around them was still due to both of them being afraid to move towards the other.
Kaiba breathed in through his nose, and waded across the soaking tub, watching her tense and pull away from him.
He moved closer, seeing her eyes flit with nervousness. She put a hand to his chest and kept her head lowered.
Kaiba let out a frustrated sigh and tried to meet her gaze. Her eyes were dark and she was avoiding eye contact.
"Is something wrong?" He asked, pulling away from her and leaning against the back of the tub.
Salem dipped her hair back in the water to wet it thoroughly. She pushed her baby hairs back as she smoothed her dark curls.
"Tanin...what...Um, are we? I know we want to spend more time together but, what does that mean exactly?"
Kaiba blew a rush of air out through his nose, and pushed his wet bangs out of his face.
It's time to just say it.
Kaiba knew there was a chance of rejection but the only way to know for sure, was to ask.
"Well, Salem, I'd like...to go public...If that's alright with you." He said, unsure of where she stood on private versus public life.
Kaiba knew this was all new to him too, and he couldn't expect her to be on board.
Salem moved closer and pushed her wet hair off her shoulders. She ran her hand up Kaiba's thigh under the water.
Kaiba let out a delighted shiver and grabbed Salem's hand. He held her hand up to his lips and kissed her knuckles. The henna on her hands and forearms long faded.
She smiled.
Ugh.
Dazzling.
"Salem. Come to dinner at the Kaiba mansion tomorrow. And I'd...Like us to be together officially."
"Officially? You mean, yanni, on social media? That's what you mean by public? I'd be your…?"
"I prefer the term partner, but, heteronormatively, you'd be my girlfriend-"
"Ha! Seto Kaiba's "girlfriend"? You are right, Tanin, I like "partner" better." Salem said, with a laugh.
She smirked and splashed water towards Kaiba soaking the rest of his hair.
"Hey!" Kaiba said, splashing back just as forcefully.
He closed the gap between them and kissed Salem full on the mouth, cupping her cheek to deepen the kiss.
Salem let out a melodious laugh as Kaiba kissed down her neck, biting and sucking lightly. She ran her fingers down Kaiba toned stomach, relishing the tight muscles tensing and quivering beneath the pads of her fingers.
Kaiba cupped her one of her supple breasts and rolled to the soft nub between his fingers, enjoying the way her body shook with pleasure.
He trailed his fingers down her trembling stomach and stopped at her clit, rubbing the sensitive area slowly before moving to her entrance, circling his finger around it.
She flinched and tensed immediately, pulling her body away.
Hm.
That's the second time she's done that.
Kaiba caught her gaze and raised his eyebrow at her, wondering what was going on.
She sighed and gave him an apologetic smile.
"Ana asfa, Tanin. I just, yanni, had, what's the word for this...A bad experience that happens when you're young and it makes things difficult, yanni, later in life?"
Kaiba thought for a moment. A bad experience? Was she talking about childhood trauma?
"You had a traumatic experience?"
"Bazaapt! Yes, traumatic...I'm not ready to talk about details of it, the assault but-"
"Wait, you were assaulted?! Sexually?" Kaiba realized that this must have been the punishment her parents gave her but, why? That was beyond cruel.
"Tanin, it was something that happens in my culture. It was just fingers, but...I still have trouble dealing with it."
What?
That's no excuse.
"In your, culture?"
"Yes. Normally, poor families have their daughters go through a "virginity test". If there's blood, virgin, no blood...well you can guess things don't end well."
Kaiba was trying to process this information. A test? To prove?
Oh God.
Kaiba took her hands in his and looked in her eyes. This was the first time Salem was legitimately vulnerable in front of him.
Her big brown eyes were sad and her cheeks were flushed.
Hm.
The bath is getting a little too hot.
"Salem?"
"Yes, Tanin?"
"What can I do? To make things easier? It can't be fun to think of what happened every time I try something."
Salem was silent and she looked at her delicate hands in Kaiba's elegante ones.
"That's just it, Tanin. I want to, with you. I really do. I'm just, scared." Salem avoided Kaiba's eyes, looking ashamed of herself.
Ha.
This woman created a literal "smart watch" to access the multiverse, traveled said multiverse, still had time to be an ambassador and business woman, and was scared of consensual penetration?
Amazing.
Salem splashed water at Kaiba. She was frowning and glaring at him. He realized that he was smirking.
"Salem, it's time for me to teach you a little something." Kaiba said, standing up slowly, the hot water dripping off of his solid body.
Salem raised her eyebrows, incredulous of Kaiba's intentions.
They got out of the water, letting the tub drain as they dried off.
Kaiba wrapped his towel around his waist as Salem donned a beautiful dark purple robe.
Oh shit…
The dark purple against her caramel skin reminded Kaiba of the pharaoh's cape. So perfect and always beautiful billowing behind him.
He watched as she towel dried her hair, the dark curls bouncing weightlessly when she shook it out.
"It's just the same color, calm down idiot or you'll freak her out."
Salem threw her towel in a nearby hamper and gathered Kaiba's half dry clothes. She smiled at him and nodded towards the white cabinet she retrieved the towels from.
"There should be a robe in the cabinet you can use. Your clothes will be ready by the time you leave in the morning."
She left the bathroom room and disappeared into the manor.
Kaiba looked at the cabinet and spied the oils she set on the counter before they got in the bath.
Hmmm.
That'll make things more enjoyable for her.
He threw his towel into the same hamper and grabbed a white robe out of the linen cabinet. He took the oils off of the counter and marched into the bedroom, on a mission.
Kaiba placed the oils on the bedside table and turned on the lamp. He looked around the walls for the light switch, rushing to turn the main lights off before Salem returned to the room.
He heard Salem come through the main entrance to her bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed, hoping he made it look enticing.
Salem slowly walked through the chiffon curtains, taking in the sight before her.
Seto Kaiba sitting on her bed, in just a robe, with an assortment of oils on her table.
"Oh my, Tanin...How romantic."
She walked over to the bed and sat next to Kaiba, smiling sensually.
Kaiba cupped her cheek and brushed his thumb across her cheek, luxuriating in the softness of her skin.
Oh God.
It's going to be difficult to keep things simple tonight.
He kissed her lips and gave her bottom lip a small bit, earning an encouraging sound from Salem.
"Lay down." He said, getting up to grab one of the glass bottles off of the table.
Salem obliged and look at Kaiba's choice of massage oil. She smirked and scooted further up on the bed, giving him room to have the best view of her.
Kaiba uncorked his chosen bottle and waved it under his nose, letting the fragrance waft into his nostrils.
Hmmm.
It wasn't a scent Kaiba was familiar with. He sniffed again.
The scent seemed like it was diluted due to its rich nature. It was wood-like but sweet and floral.
Salem snickered from her spot on the bed.
"That's a good choice, Tanin. And, you won't be able to guess that scent. The tree it comes from doesn't grow in Japan."
Kaiba rolled his eyes and smirked at her. He leaned over her and planted another kiss on her lips, untying and opening her robe in the process.
He sat near Salem's legs, facing her so he could trace tiny patterns on her stomach with his fingers.
She moaned and shivered, her stomach shuddering from the sensation.
Kaiba smirked at her reaction and swirled his fingers over the open of the glass bottle, collecting a generous amount of oil on his fingers.
He started slow by gently rubbing her clit, circling the protruding pith with the pads of his finger tips.
Salem squirmed and moaned, instinctively rolling her hips to receive more friction.
Kaiba took in the sight of Salem sprawled on out on the bed, grabbing onto the sheets and moaning at his touch.
Oh God.
Kaiba knew it would be difficult to not want to have sex with her tonight, but he knew she needed to get past the idea that penetration was painful in order for both of them to feel comfortable moving forward.
He moved his middle finger towards her entrance and she tensed, her abs flexing from the muscle strain.
Kaiba ran the fingers of his free hand down up and down her stomach and she let out a shaking breath, gasping as his finger slowly entered her.
He paused, letting her adjust to the sensation of his slick finger inside of her.
She breathed slowly and evenly, her hand grasping his free arm.
Salem loosened her grip and smiled at Kaiba, nodding at him to continue.
Kaiba looked in her eyes. She still looked like she was unsure.
"Are you sure?" Kaiba said, making sure she really wanted this.
Salem smiled and let go of Kaiba's arm completely.
"Yes, Tanin...just, go slow?"
Kaiba nodded as he began to slowly pump his finger in and out of Salem, her body twitching from the new sensation.
He felt her natural moisture start to mix with the oils on his finger. She was relaxing, moaning louder and louder as she felt more pleasure from Kaiba's ministrations.
"She's feeling so much from just one finger. You should add another one and make her moan your name…"
Kaiba hastily inserted a second finger, forgetting Salem's lack of experience. She gasped and shook, not stopping Kaiba in his actions.
Good.
He didn't completely ruin progress with his impatience.
Salem was moaning Kaiba's pet name, asking for more. Her hips were moving to meet his fingers with every thrust and her cheeks were red.
Oh Fuck.
Kaiba was painfully aware of his erection. Watching Salem twist and shake with every movement of his fingers was making him throb.
He shivered as he grabbed ahold of his member, pumping it in time with every thrust of his fingers in Salem's soaking wet womanhood.
Kaiba wanted to see Salem orgasm but he knew she may not make it to completion with just his fingers, the feeling was too new.
He leaned over, continuing to pump his fingers inside of her and rub himself, to kiss her lips passionately.
Kaiba broke the kiss and looked into her eyes, half lidded and needy.
"Rub your clit for me, Goddess." Kaiba said breathlessly.
Salem licked her lips and smiled, reaching down to rub herself in time with Kaiba's fingers.
She moaned Kaiba's name and threw her head back as every ripple of pleasure became too much to handle.
Kaiba groaned and came thickly into his hand, making sure to speed up his fingers to bring Salem to her orgasm.
She gasped and moaned, choking out one final moan as her juices ran down Kaiba's fingers.
"Oh fuck! Tanin!" She wailed, as Kaiba removed his fingers and rubbed her overstimulated clit.
Her beautiful legs shook and then went limp as Kaiba slowed his movements, coming to a halt.
Both of them were breathing heavily, looking into each others eyes. They each let out a breathless laugh, as Kaiba collapsed next to Salem on the bed.
Kaiba felt his semen starting to dry and stick to his pubic hair. He turned his head toward Salem who was sleeping peacefully, drained from her orgasm.
He swallowed a bubble of laughter as he moved a lock of her hair from out of her mouth.
"Adorable…"
He made his way to the bathroom to clean himself up.
As he threw the wet towel in the hamper, he heard something coming from downstairs.
He walked into the bedroom to find Salem, asleep innocently with her robe open.
Another sound from downstairs.
Kaiba covered Salem with her blankets and fastened his robe tighter. He walked out of the bedroom and down the stairs to the kitchen, hoping to find nothing.
Clack...clack..clack…
The lounge.
He walked down the hallway and into the large room. He saw the small table and large pillows where him and Salem had their first date.
Kaiba felt around the walls, trying to find a light switch. His fingers found the switch and flicked it on.
He looked around the well lit room, everything in place and no one in sight.
Clack...clack…...clack.
Kaiba jumped as he heard the sound again, this time he saw the table in the middle of the room shake.
What...the fuck.
He walked to the table, seeing nothing out of the ordinary.
Wait.
What?
Kaiba looked at the table closer and saw the small bowl of chocolates spilled over. They formed a message.
DON'T
Kaiba surveyed the room, certain someone had to have been in there with him. He heard the sound in the hallway behind him, going upstairs.
Salem.
He ran up the stairs hearing the sound in front of him.
Clackclackclackclackclack
"Shit." Kaiba breathed, as the sound sped up and stopped in front of the guest room door.
He put his hand on the door knob, hearing movement inside. He breathed in sharply through his nose and opened the door, seeing a figure sitting on the bed.
Kaiba flipped on the lights and almost fell to his knees. He slowly approached the bed, locking eyes with, Atem.
Atem was fully dressed in his kingly attire, his eyes were dark and lifeless. He stood up and took Kaiba's hand in his, smiling gently.
Kaiba was shaking, not believing his eyes.
"W-What are you-How are you-" Kaiba sputtered, trying to make sense of the situation.
Atem placed an elegant finger on Kaiba lips and opened his mouth to speak.
"It's time for you to wake up now, Tanin." Salem's voice came out of Atem's mouth, making Kaiba even more confused.
"Tanin! Get up!"
Kaiba's body jolted and he sat up, in Salem's bed. His semen stuck and dried to his body and robe still open.
"Was that, a dream?"
Kaiba thought to himself and he rubbed his eyes, feeling empty.
He looked over to Salem. She was already dressed for her day in a dark green tight fitting dress. She was putting gold bangles over the long sleeves of her dress.
Kaiba gaped. He watched as she put on her gold rings, stacked stylishly.
He saw his clothes, washed and dried, folded at the edge of the bed. He stood up and stretched, his joints cracked and ached.
Shit. He must have fallen asleep right when laid down to catch his breath.
Everything hurts.
"Sounds like someone's getting old, mish kida?" She said, throwing a towel in Kaiba's face, chuckling.
Kaiba wordlessly went into the bathroom and started the shower. He stepped into the warm water and sighed.
He wished Salem could have joined him this time, but he had to go home and get ready for work.
Oh shit.
That's right.
He'd completely forgotten to post anything on social media. It had to happen this morning or he would hear about it from the board.
Ugh.
Kaiba stepped out of the shower and dried off. He hated that he couldn't take things at his own pace.
Well. Things were going at his pace but, he didn't want them public so soon.
He returned to the bedroom to get dressed and saw Salem was gone, already downstairs.
Hmm.
She doesn't mess around when it comes to getting the day started.
Kaiba pocketed his phone and wallet, happy his clothes were completely ruined this time. As he walked down the stairs to the kitchen, he heard Salem speaking arabic.
Ugh, great. Anansi.
Kaiba walked into the kitchen, the smell of fresh coffee invading his nostrils.
Oh, yes.
He had planned on leaving immediately but he could never turn down fresh coffee.
Anansi glared at Kaiba as he sat down next to Salem at the table, kissing her on the cheek.
"You stayed the night, again?" Anansi said judgmentally, pouring Salem's coffee.
Kaiba scoffed and took out his phone, giving him the cold shoulder.
Anansi moved to put the coffee pot away when Salem stopped him.
"Anansi, Seto would also like coffee, he had a late night." She said with a laugh, sipping her cup delicately.
Kaiba smirked at Anansi triumphantly. He pushed his empty mug towards Anansi's hands, shaking with rage.
Anansi poured the coffee, walking away from Kaiba without bowing.
Kaiba wondered how far he could push him in front of Salem.
"Salem, I didn't know your employees don't bow to guests." Kaiba said, taking a test tip of his coffee.
"Damn, that's good."
"Oh no, Tanin, they're supposed to." Salem answered, glaring a hole in Anansi's back.
Anansi slammed the pot down and turned to face Salem.
"What did you call him?!" Anansi yelled.
Oh.
It doesn't take much.
Salem rolled her eyes and set her mug down.
"Watch yourself, Anansi. And you speak arabic, you know what it means." She said, absentmindedly checking her phone.
Kaiba's phone buzzed. He opened his messages seeing a text from Salem.
Goddess: Anansi has his head up his ass today, mish kida?
Kaiba let out of laugh and sipped his coffee, watching Anansi's face turn beet red.
"My Lady, those pictures will get you in trouble. You should end this, now." Anansi said, talking as if Kaiba wasn't in the room.
Salem gave a frustrated sigh. Then her face lit up as she realized her and Kaiba haven't announced their relationship via social media yet.
"Oh! Thank you for reminding me! Tanin, would you like to get a picture of me with my coffee? We can post it now." She said with a smirk, flipping her hair off of her shoulder.
Anansi's face became confused, as Kaiba took her hint and opened the camera on his phone.
She posed beautifully, holding the coffee cup in her lovely hands, in front of her slim waist.
Kaiba repressed a shiver and clicked the shutter, posting it directly to his social media with a caption that said "Good Morning". He tagged her in the photo and hesitantly sent the relationship request.
Salem accepted the request and smiled at Kaiba. He winked at her and drank the rest of his coffee.
Anansi's phone buzzed and he looked at the notification. He remained silent.
Kaiba raised an eyebrow at him and stood up, realizing it was time for him to go.
Salem was snickering at Anansi's reaction as Kaiba leaned in and kissed her on the lips.
"Tonight. Kaiba mansion. Make sure you bring an overnight bag." Kaiba said with a wink, relishing Anansi's glare as he left the house.
Worth it.
Kaiba was sitting at his desk, going over reports when his intercom beeped.
"Mr. Kaiba, Yugi Motou is here to see you."
Kaiba groaned internally, wondering what Yugi would need.
"Send him in." Kaiba said, monotone and uninterested.
The door to his office opened immediately, Yugi walked into the office confidently, sitting down in on the of the white chairs.
He looked professional and stylish.
Hmpf.
The Kaiba Corp paycheck is obviously treating him well.
Yugi looked tense and had his lips set in a tight line. He clenched his fists in his lap and kept his eyes down.
"Kaiba-kun."
Kaiba raised his eyebrow and sighed.
"What are you doing here, Yugi? Don't you still have work to do? I gave you your own office for a reason-"
"Is it true?" Yugi finally made eye contact with Kaiba.
"What are you talking about?"
Yugi sighed and ran his fingers through his spiky hair.
"You and that woman. Is it true?"
"Why wouldn't it be?" Kaiba scoffed.
Yugi groaned in frustration and stood up.
"I've been seeing him. Atem. He's in my dreams, warning me. I haven't dreamt about him in years, but ever since we met that woman, I've seen him every night."
Kaiba froze. He's been having dreams about Atem too. And the most recent one was enough to shake anyone up.
Yugi caught Kaiba's gaze and gasped.
"You've been seeing him too haven't you?"
Kaiba rolled his eyes and said,
"Dreams are just dreams, Yugi. Now, did you have something work related to talk to me about, or are you going to waste my time with this nonsense."
He resumed his worked, signaling to Yugi that the conversation was over.
Yugi was trembling, wanting to say more but he forced out a professional answer.
"No. Kaiba-kun. Te'a and I will see you and Mokuba this evening."
Kaiba looked up from work.
What.
No.
"This evening?" He asked incredulously.
Yugi sighed again, unaware that Kaiba had no knowledge of these plans.
"Yeah Kaiba-kun. Mokuba invited everyone to the Kaiba mansion for dinner tonight. I couldn't talk him out of it, he said it's the perfect setting for a proposal."
"Oh?"
"Yeah. He said he would make sure you're at dinner, even if he has to tie you to your chair. Anyway, like you said, I have work to do." With that, Yugi exited Kaiba's office, leaving Kaiba alone with his own thoughts.
Well, shit.
Kaiba pulled out his phone and sent Mokuba a text confirming the details of the evening. He knew there wouldn't be a way out, and he wasn't getting ready to cancel his plans with Salem.
He rubbed the bridge of his nose with his thumb and index finger, knowing tonight was going to try his patience.
His phone buzzed and he opened his messages, expecting a reply from Mokuba.
He was shocked to find a message from Salem with a picture attached.
Goddess: What do you think, Tanin? Is it too much?
The picture was of her at the salon. Her hair was tousled to perfection her tight bouncy curls more defined and the color, was maroon.
Oh God.
It looked so good on her, Kaiba replied without thinking.
Seto Kaiba: Holy shit, you look amazing.
"Smooth, dickhead. You two may be official, but you can still screw things up."
…
…
Goddess: You think so, Tanin? I can always dye it back.
…
Seto Kaiba: No. keep it.
…
…
Goddess: Mokuba sent me a message today. Inviting me to dinner at your mansion? Does he not know I am already coming?
Kaiba thought before crafting his reply. He didn't want those losers scaring her away. And he definitely didn't want all of Mokuba's friends meeting her at once, especially since they were publicly dating.
There was no avoiding that. But, the dinner was for Yugi and Te'a, the focus won't be on Salem at all.
Right?
Seto Kaiba: Yes, well, Mokuba is throwing a dinner party and I was just notified today.
…
..
Goddess: Ah, I see. Is this dinner party formal? I'd hate to be underdressed around someone as stylish as your brother.
Kaiba blew air out through his nose. He knew his brother has an obsession with European fashion, he just didn't think it would influence his entire wardrobe.
He got a text from Mokuba detailing the "dress code".
…
Seto Kaiba: He says it's cocktail chic. Whatever that means.
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Goddess: Ah. And should I still bring an overnight bag? ;)
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Seto Kaiba: Look anymore amazing than you do now and you'll have to move in. (Devil grin)
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Read.
Kaiba stilled when he realized what he just did.
"Shit." He cursed allowed.
"Wow. Really? And you were worried about those losers scaring her away. The only loser here is you, dumbass."
Kaiba kicked himself mentally as he grumpily returned to his work.
They've only been official for a couple hours and he's talking about her moving in? He knew he'd fuck things up somehow.
He clicked to his socials, needing a distraction from his own idiocy.
The picture of Salem was going viral and there were thousands of comments. He knew reading them was a bad idea, but he couldn't resist.
There were several people who couldn't believe that this woman was interested in him. Others were skeptical of Kaiba's intentions. And the vast majority were disgustingly sexual.
$$Fuckin_Bichez78: Didn't know KaibaSeto had jungle fever. Can't blame him though, look at those tits!
HappyCamperLMAO: Damn KaibaSeto! What's it like in between those thighs? I bet she tastes amazing. (Eggplant).
Disgusting.
He kept scrolling.
iiitsAme!: God I would tie her up and fuck her so hard she cries. And KaibaSeto, you can watch. (Devil grin)(devil grin)
Kaiba let out a sound of disgust and exited the window. He took a deep breath and put his head in his hands, internally screaming.
He felt his anger rising, making his hands shake. He stood up and started to pace the length of his office.
Kaiba didn't know what he wanted. He knew he couldn't single handedly find these people and ruin them, but it was so tempting.
He took out his phone and went to his contacts. He tapped on Mokuba's number and put the phone to his ear, trying to control his rage with each ring.
He heard the phone click on the other end and Mokuba's voice sounding exasperated.
"What, Seto?" Mokuba said with a sigh.
Kaiba contained himself, trying not to scream.
"Did you see those disgusting comments?"
Mokuba let out a long breath and cleared his throat.
"Seto, most of those comments were overwhelmingly positive. We already know how disgusting people can be. Sala's gorgeous and your two are official. You got the information out. Just ignore them."
Kaiba was seething, Mokuba's words not making him feel any better.
"Mokuba, how can just ignore these comments? Some of them were troublesome-"
"Seto, when have you ever cared what other people think? I have to go, this dinner isn't going to plan itself."
Kaiba heard the line click then silence.
Wow.
How unhelpful.
He took a deep breath, and tapped on Salem's number, not caring if she was ignoring his texts.
The line rang once and the other line clicked. Salem's voice was warm and calming.
"Masa' alkhayr, Tanin. Is everything alright? You've never called me before, mish kida?"
Kaiba's tension and anger immediately slipped away. He loved the fact that she knew something was wrong, even though they weren't face to face.
He breathed in through his nose, trying to mask his frustration.
"Hi. I was just wondering, if you saw those comments?"
There was silence on the other line and Kaiba hoped she hadn't hung up.
"Yes, Tanin. I saw. They were...Disgusting, yes?"
"Mokuba says we should just ignore them but...I'm just, protective."
Kaiba heard rustling on the other line and the sound of a car door slamming shut.
"You weren't out by yourself were you?" Kaiba said, worried about what might happen if she ever went out alone.
He heard Salem scoff and chuckle.
"Tanin, I'm a public figure and a politician. I'm never alone."
Kaiba felt relieved. He knew those comments must have bothered her too. She is human after all.
"Hey, Salem, would you come to my office? You can bring your stuff for tonight but, I just want to see you."
"Um, sure, Tanin. I'll have Anansi drop me off."
Kaiba rolled his eyes. He heard Salem laugh.
"Are you serious, Tanin? I can hear you rolling your eyes." She said, still snickering through the phone.
"Whatever, just get over here, I need you in my office...now." He said sensually, dying to have her close to him again.
"Pft. Okay, meshie, Tanin. I'll be there soon. Goodbye."
"...Bye." Kaiba hung up the phone.
He realized it had been so long since he'd had a pleasant phone conversation.
He paged his secretary to let her now that Salem would be coming to the office and to make sure that there was security out front. The last thing he wanted was someone spotting her and trying something violent.
Kaiba returned to his work, feeling impatient waiting for Salem to arrive. His computer pinged with a social alert and he clicked on it begrudgingly.
kaibaluvR69: SalaWahab is on the move! Her car is the black escalade with diplomatic plates! Wonder if KaibaSeto is with her?
: Just saw SalaWahab's car pass my job! She's going to Kaiba Corp! How much you want to bet her and KaibaSeto are gonna screw on his desk?!
Kaiba growled and shoved papers off of his desk. He was seconds away from throwing his laptop across the room when his secretary spoke over the intercom.
"Mr. Kaiba, Ambassador Wahab made it in the building safely. Unfortunately, he presence has attracted paparazzi."
Kaiba was overcome with relief. The paparazzi were vultures but they weren't like those monsters online.
"Send her up immediately." He said shortly.
He cleaned up the mess from his tantrum and sat at his desk innocently. Hoping his frustration wouldn't show on his face.
A couple minutes passed and there was a knock at his office door.
Kaiba suddenly became nervous as his secretary opened the door and let Salem inside. The room became so much smaller and his face became hot.
Salem turned her gaze toward Kaiba as the secretary left them alone. She smirked and walked forward, carrying a large black tote and a garment bag.
She scanned the office, taking in the color scheme and cleanliness.
"Ahlan wa sahlan, Tanin." She said, walking over to the grey couch and setting her stuff down.
Kaiba looked her up and down as she flipped her dark maroon hair over her shoulder. She stretched her arms over her head, giving Kaiba an amazing view of her backside.
Mmm. Fuck.
He walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her against him. He raked his fingers down her hips, buried his nose in her hair and smelled the roses radiating from her scalp.
Salem smiled and pried herself out of Kaiba's grip. She turned to face him and wagged her finger.
"Come now, Tanin. In your office? Are you sure that's a good idea?" She smirked at him, her eyes playful.
Kaiba's resolve broke and he pushed her onto the couch, straddling her small body. He growled and took her lips in his, sliding his tongue into her mouth, exploring every crevice.
Salem moaned into the kiss and let Kaiba overpower her. She felt his arousal against her thigh, his hips grinding against hers.
Kaiba got up and pulled her over to his desk. He flopped into his chair and placed Salem on him, her legs on either side of his hips.
He gazed at her face, taking her cheek in his hand, relishing the smooth skin. She looked back at him, running her hands over his toned chest before wrapping them around his neck.
"God, you're beautiful…" He said, leaning in for another passionate kiss.
Suddenly his office door opened. In a flash, Salem was off of his lap and standing next to his chair, trying to look as innocent as possible.
Kaiba groaned in frustration as he saw who barged into his office.
"That whiny bitch from the board."
Kaiba was so close to yelling at this woman but he realized he couldn't stand up without revealing his raging erection.
Great.
"Is there a reason you came into my office without knocking?" Kaiba said, angrily, ready to scream at the woman.
The older woman scoffed and walked up to Kaiba's desk, not taking her judgemental eyes off of Salem.
"This is a pressing matter, Mr. Kaiba. Was I interrupting something? I couldn't imagine what the two of you could be doing in your office in the middle of the day…"
"Fucking bitch…"
Kaiba glowered, knowing this woman had waited until Salem got to his office just so she could catch him being inappropriate with Salem.
"Actually, you were interrupting something. It's very rude to enter anyone's office without knocking. Seto, I didn't realize your employees were so...brazen." Salem said, walking around his desk and leaning against the front.
Kaiba smirked, thanking the powers that be that Salem picked up on the fact that this woman was overstepping.
The woman scoffed and crossed her arms.
"Wow, who knew you spoke Japanese. So articulate." The woman said challengingly.
Salem laughed threateningly. She moved to sit on Kaiba's desk and crossed her legs.
"Mmmm. It must be hard for you, mish kida? Being so threatened by a woman 30 years your junior. Your children must be so proud." Salem retorted.
"I don't have children." The woman said, putting her hand on her hip.
"Shocker." Salem said with finality.
The woman gasped and growled, approaching Salem threateningly.
Salem stood her ground as Kaiba stopped the woman with his voice.
"Ms. Nakamura. That's enough. State your business." Kaiba said, leaning back in his chair.
Nakamura kept her eyes on Salem as she took a step back. She took a breath and smiled at Kaiba.
"Mr. Kaiba, I came to alert you that your candidacy has been made official. It is now public that you are running for-"
"That's all? Yah rubi, Tanin. Do you have all your employees come to your office to tell you facts that they could email you, in person? What a poor use of time…" Salem interrupted, examining her freshly manicured nails passively.
Nakamura's face turned bright red. She turned to Kaiba and spat,
"Will you put your camel jockey in her place? There's no place for her kind in this office."
Kaiba froze.
What?
Kaiba blinked and suddenly Salem was in front of Nakamura.
Salem slapped Nakamura straight across the face, the sound of Salem's hand in contact with her skin echoed through Kaiba's office.
Nakamura yelled in pain and fell to her knees. Salem kneeled in front of her, glaring.
"Do you feel brave enough to say that again?" Salem whisperied, her voice threatening.
Nakamura stood up and frantically walked to Kaiba.
"Mr. Kaiba do you see? Her kind is violent!" Nakamura said, still holding her face in pain.
Kaiba was fuming, he couldn't believe what he just witnessed.
Salem was now upright, standing in the middle of the office, scowling.
Kaiba knew what he had to do. He knew he would have to answer for it later but this behavior was unacceptable.
"You're right, Ms. Nakamura…" Kaiba began.
Salem looked at Kaiba, confused. She didn't think he would side with a woman who was obviously hateful and racist.
"Salem, will you open the door for Ms. Nakamura please? She's going to need to get started on cleaning out her office." He finished.
Salem smiled and walked towards the door, opening it with a smile.
"Mr. Kaiba you can't be serious! This woman just assaulted me!" She begged.
"Oh, I'm very serious. First, you're badmouth her in a meeting that didn't need to be called, and now your call her a racial slur and play victim when she rightfully puts you in your place? So, you're fired and blacklisted. Get out." Kaiba said, standing up and rounding his desk.
"You'll be sorry, Mr. Kaiba. This woman will ruin you." Nakamura said, backing up towards the door.
Salem laughed in her face and sighed.
"Is that would your mother-in-law said to your husband?" Salem asked with a smirk.
Nakamura glared at Salem as she walked out of the office.
"I've never been married." Nakamura spat.
"Yeah. That checks out." Salem said, slamming the door in Nakamura's face.
Salem sighed happily and dusted her hands together as she walked toward Kaiba. She sat in one of the white chairs across from his desk and slumped into it, breathing in and out slowly.
Kaiba sat in the chair next to hers and tapped his foot awkwardly.
He didn't know how to deal with what just happened. Salem wasn't wrong in her reaction, but Kaiba knew that the racism was going to be a constant issue.
Shit.
Kaiba realized that this is something Salem must deal with on a daily basis. He sighed and put his hand on her thigh.
"Are you okay? That was awful, I apologize." He said stiffly.
Salem chuckled and opened her eyes. She took Kaiba's hand in hers and smiled, her eyes full of sadness.
"Thank you, Tanin. For sticking up for me...I probably shouldn't have slapped her though. I just got so angry, I acted without thinking."
Kaiba stood up and walked over to his desk. He pressed a button on his intercom.
"Ambassador Wahab and I are leaving for the day. Make sure Ms. Nakamura is off the premises. She has been fired and blacklisted."
"...Yes, sir."
Kaiba grabbed Salem's bags from off of his couch and walked over to the door. She gave him a confused look.
"Are you coming? Or am I going to wear your dress for you tonight?" Kaiba said mimicking how she spoke when she was impatient.
Salem laughed and walked up to Kaiba. She took her tote bag from him and kissed him on the lips.
"I'm ready." She said, adjusting the bag's strap.
Kaiba nodded and they stode out of his office, hopefully putting this awful situation behind them.
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edited by prettiugli :)