Chapter Ten: Makes and breaks

The young Kaiba brothers awoke in their respected rooms. Both feeling emotionally drained, it would take Seto and Mokuba a few extra minutes to peel themselves out of bed. Thankfully, a hot shower did the trick for Mokuba, but as for Seto – the images of his father's tragic death lingered with reoccurring flashbacks as he dressed himself for work. Finishing his tie, his younger brother bum-rushed into his room, and began a rather dower conversation, "So that was something," Mokuba broke the awkward silence, "right?" he asked unsure of what reaction he'd be met with.

Seto didn't take his attention off of his reflection in the mirror, "I have no idea what that was," he rasped.

Mokuba sat on the bed dumfounded, "You seriously cannot be telling me you don't believe what just happened?"

"I don't know what to believe anymore," he still refused to look, let alone make eye contact with the teen, "I have to get to work, we'll talk more later."

"Okay," he sighed as Seto walked by him and out the door.

Once Seto was gone, Mokuba made his way towards the dining room for an omelet with the works. Back in his room, the young teen lay on his bed in deep thought. Feeling bored and nostalgic, Mokuba pulled out the box of 'memorabilia,' and found what he was looking for – the old family photo. Laughing at how his now rough and tough brother looked so cute with his round cherub-like face, Mokuba decided to frame it, and placed it on his night stand.

Smiling at his mother's warm grin, he was suddenly filled with inspiration. Scrambling for a pen and paper, Mokuba excitedly scribbled down some lyrics. Filled with joy from his work, the young man made a poor attempt at a cartwheel and fell backwards, landing on his bed.

Following the commotion, the intercom buzzed in, "Master Mokuba, what are you doing, are you okay?"

Flipping onto his stomach, Mokuba reached to reply, "Yes Kya, just messing around."

"Don't break anything!" she screeched.

Holding his ear, he simply laughed and then propped himself up on his behind. Stretching an arm for his phone to text Seto, his phone coincidentally received a text:

Group Text:

Akiko:Emergency Band Meeting!

…

In his office, the morning seemed to drag on for the renowned Seto Kaiba. Even though it was a standard day with meetings, clients, and last-minute test runs – it was nothing, but a very long day. Stuck in his office with mountains upon mountains of paperwork, Seto began to zone out and became lost in deep thought. Also feeling sentimental about his parents, the prosperous C.E.O. decided to search online his childhood home. Not remembering the exact address proved to be a bit difficult, so he had to go based off of the area, and what little he could remember.

Narita, Seto stumbled upon something familiar, and after an hour, "Found it!" he voiced.

Not wasting anymore time, Seto quickly grabbed a pen, jotted down the address, and took his leave without any notice. It was 3 in the afternoon, and Narita was about an hour away from Domino by car. Although it was beginning of rush hour traffic, the drive was an easy feat with little traffic. Everything appeared to be so different from Domino. The houses were spread further apart, flowers more vibrant, the atmosphere as a whole was calming in a sense all in its own.

Turning a corner into the now calming residential area, lost memories, and feeling came flooding back. Convinced he wouldn't be recognized by any neighbors, or bystanders, Seto decided to walk the rest of the way. Making his way down the street, Seto felt strange, he could not pin point it – it was an odd feeling starting in his feet, rising and grabbing hold of his chest. Eventually, Seto understood his feelings of angst and excitement as he approached the old playground he and Mokuba used to play at, all those years ago.

Just the sight of it all was a bit overwhelming. It was obvious the entire jungle gym had been redone at some point, however, it all looked – rather, felt the same. A few kids ran by, racing towards the swings, causing Seto to reminisce of when he and mokie would do the same.

With not much else to do, or see Seto took his leave, and returned to his trip down memory lane. Deciding it was best to not visit the orphanage, as it would cause a frenzy with a high-profile celebrity making an abrupt appearance, Seto headed in the opposite direction. Wondering up the street, things became somewhat confusing, "Has it really been that long that I've forgotten the way home?" he questioned himself.

…

Back at the mansion, Mokuba became surprised at the text, and texted back. Unfortunately, Akiko refused to say anything, except that everyone had to meet up – TODAY. Surprisingly, Shikaku was the first to arrive and even took the initiative to spark up a conversation, usually it was Mae, or Akiko.

"Sooo, any idea what this is all about?"

Mokuba shrugged, "None."

Sitting on the couch with his arms hanging over the back, Shikaku let his head fall back and thought for a few minutes, "hey," he said without picking his head up.

"What's up?" Mokuba furrowed his brow.

"Maybe she's leaving the band," he paused while looking at the ceiling, "did she ever say how her second date went with that guy?"

Mokuba flinched, and went 3 shades pale at the thought. "I thought we were about to start something together." He thought to himself.

Trying to remain cool he replied, "Nah."

Shikaku smirked at his change in attitude, "Hmm, wonder what it could be."

Just as Shikaku finished his thought, both girls slid into the parlor, Akiko looking like a hot mess: hair in disarray resembling a birds nest, no make-up, and still in sweats to boot. Both boys looked at each other, then back at the girls, back at each other and burst into a fir of hysterics.

Akiko stood there with her hands on her hips, and rolled her eyes, "Yeah, yeah I know I look like hell, but-"

"Wait, wait," Shikaku chimed in, in between laughs, "Tell us about your date."

Mokuba's heart leapt as he gave his bassist a deadly glare, who apparently didn't take notice, or rather just not cared.

"Huh," now it was Akiko's turn to be bewildered.

Mae shared a look with Shikaku, and quickly caught on, and played along, "Yeah, as the best friend I demand to know what happened, on both dates."

Akiko scrunched her face, "I told you, it wasn't anything special," she whined.

"Yeah, but like give details, why was this date such a bust?"

Mokuba rolled his eyes at the gossip, "I'm going to get some air," he announced. Now irritated, Mokuba made his way past Akiko, not daring to look her in the eye, but not before being stopped.

"Wait!" she shouted.

"I don't care about your stupid date – come get me when you're done," he continued not looking at her.

Akiko held her grip, "Okay one, it wasn't a date, an-"

"Call it whatever you-"

"We have an audition at Warner Bro. Records!" Akiko couldn't hold her excitement any longer.

Everyone's eyes appeared as though they were about to pop out of their heads. Speechless, everyone held their breath, afraid to believe what they have just heard.

"What did you just say?" Mokuba broke the silence.

Akiko took a deep breath, "We. Have. An Audition. With Warner Bro. Records," she spoke confidently.

"Whoa, hold up, when, or how did you work this out?" Shikaku asked.

"Like I said, it was not really a date, per-say," she continued, "That day I came here all dressed up I was with an associate, or rather a scout you can call him. I showed him some of our music, and he was actually impressed."

Listening to all the questions, Mokuba felt somewhat relieved at the new, but at the same time felt a tinge of guilt towards Akiko who explained how the audition was in a week, could not be missed for anything, or rescheduled! The idea of only having to play 3 songs was easy – figuring out which ones to play was the difficult part.

…

While the Kaiba brothers were busy with their own adventures, Kisara stood outside a restaurant, waiting for Seto. It had been a while since they had a date night that did not include any mentioning of the word, 'work,' or stress, but included a little stress relief. Kisara reminded Seto about tonight, but him being so busy, left her being unsure if he really heard her. However, after about an hour, her optimism began to fade.

…

Finding it was taking too long to find his childhood home, Seto turned around to return to his car. Driving down one of the side streets, one particular house caught his eye. The house was boarded up, except for one window, with a notice that read, 'winterized.' With nothing to lose, Seto took it upon himself to take a look. Peering inside, it was evident that the house had been vacant for quite some time. Seto investigated further, the number for the address was missing, and there was no visible mark if it ever existed anywhere, so he had to go based off of the surrounding homes.

"862,864,868," he read out loud, "So this must be 866," he determined.

This was it! This was his house, and all he wanted was to walk inside. Just as Seto reached for the doorknob, his phone rang. Annoyed, Seto begrudgingly answered his phone in a huff, "What?" he barked.

"Seto?" a small voice was heard on the other end, "I've been waiting for a while now – did something happen at the office?"

Cognizant of his poor memory, Seto became flushed as he realized he had broken another date with his girlfriend – again.

"Kisara!" he had to refrain from his mixed emotions toiling inside him, "wait, where are you, I'm on my way."

There was a sigh on the other side, "Don't worry about it sweetness," her tone was melancholy, "I'll see you tomorrow at work."

*CLICK*

"Damnit!" Seto cursed under his breath. Conflicted with what to do, Seto quickly wrote the address down in his phone, and sprinted towards his car. Racing back into Domino, Seto tried calling Kisara only for it to go to voice mail each time. Kisara's shift ended at 4 today, and it was nearing 6 pm. Doubting she'd go out with friends on a weekday, there were 2 places left: the mansion and her apartment.

Angry at himself, thinking things could not get any worse, Seto decided to go home and just let things blow over, and make up for tonight – tomorrow at work. Walking into mansion, Seto was met with the loud shout of the Polymerization members, debating over song ideas.

"Forget it," Mokuba took charge, "We've been going at this all day, and it's obvious that we're not going to make a concise decision," he continued, "We'll pick this up tomorrow."

Everyone else agreed with their band leader's idea and exited the mansion promptly. Mokuba stretched his arms out in frustration, and turned to see his older brother leaning up against the doorway, "Long day?"

"You have no idea," there was a pause, "Uh never mind."

Seto smiled, "Don't stress it kid."

"K."

Swaggering on over to the sofa he asked, "So what was that really about?"

Mokuba sat down and rubbed the back of his neck, "We have a chance to sign with a really huge record label," He looked at Seto for a reaction.

Seto's face resembled the band member's faces from earlier that day, "That's amazing, you nervous?"

"That's an understatement," he snorted, "More like scared shitless."

Seto smiled, "Well don't be, you've been working hard for this."

"Thanks," they shook hands, "So how was your day?"

"You wouldn't believe me if I told you."

Mokuba face-palmed then looked at his brother, "Says the guy who didn't believe our dead parents visited us in our dreams," he sassed

"Touché."

"Anyway, what happened today?"

"I found our old house from years ago."

"Whoa, seriously, how?"

"I was bored at work, found the general area, and the rest I did on foot."

"How's the old place look?"

"The outside – old."

"And the inside?"

"Don't know, Kisara called before I could try the door."

"Wait I'm confused."

"I forgot we had a date tonight, and it was getting late anyway so I left."

"You can't keep doing this ya know."

"It's okay we'll work it out tomorrow."

Mokuba gave Seto a concerned look but didn't press it. This was Seto's problem, and if he had to fall on his face in order to learn then so be it. The brothers talked until it was time for bed. They both wished their parents were there with them, and wondered what they meant when they said what happened to Gozoburo. Though, none of this mattered. Their parents informed them that everything would be explained, and so they had no other choice, but to wait until then.

…

It started the same way it had the previous nights. Seto was in a deep when his dream changed scenery, and he found himself back at his childhood home in his old room. Knowing what was now happening, Seto followed the smell of strong coffee and discovered his father in the kitchen.

"Rough day, son?" Hideki questioned.

"Is that a trick question?" Seto retorted as he joined the older man at the table.

Hideki smiled and laughed through his nose, "Don't get too comfortable, we're going for a walk."

Not understanding why, Seto eyed his father, but with everything else that's happened – just went with it and followed him. Out the front door, both men walked down the street with no particular destination in mind. After a minute of walking, Hideki spoke up, "I know your mother and I said we'd explain some things to you, but there is something that as a father I need to address."

Seto didn't respond.

"Your girlfriend, Kisara, she's quite beautiful," Seto's heart picked up at the mentioning of her name.

"But that's not why I brought her up," he paused, "She's been with you for how long?"

"Almost 5 years."

Hideki whistled, "I married your mom after a year and half, what's keepin-"

"Dad," Seto felt weird saying it, "I think you're getting a bit off track here."

"Ah yes I am. Anyway, you've been together for so long that you barely acknowledge her anymore."

"I see her every day."

"Yes, but as an employee – at the office," he pointed out, "When was the last time you two went out on a date?"

Seto hung his head down.

"Don't take advantage of her Seto," Hideki placed his hand on Seto's shoulders, "She's been patient with you, and put up with you a lot."

"What do I do?"

"Go make up with her, don't take no for an answer, apologize and start putting in some effort on your side of this relationship. Do it before it's too late."

Seto looked into his father's eyes for reassurance. The same deep blue eyes stared back into Seto's with the confidence he needed to accomplish this. Looking to his left Hideki saw they've returned back at home, "Remember, if she's worth it, you'll do anything to keep her."

"Thanks dad," Seto shook his hand until things faded and he was placed back into a dream cycle.

…The Next Morning…

The next morning was different. Seto was determined to make things right with Kisara, and he knew what had to be done, and could not waste any time. A hot shower, quick breakfast, and out the door speeding towards work. Stepping in his office, Seto felt confident in himself for what he was about to say. Unfortunately, he was met with Claire.

"What do you mean she's not here?!" he shouted.

"I'm sorry Mr. Kaiba, but she called me last night asking if we could switch for today." She explained.

"Damnit, put everything off until tomorrow," Seto turned so fast that he didn't hear his receptionist reply, 'yes, sir.'

"Kisara open up, I know you're home," Seto chose the apartment and chose correctly.

There was a moment of silence, and the sound of the chain bolt sliding off was heard, and the door opened, "Hi, Seto."

"May I come in, please?"

"I don't think so," she stared at him blankly.

"Let me explain, the last fe-"

Kisara held up a hand, "Seto stop," her eyes began to fill with tears, "I have been very patient with you – for years, but I don't think this is working out."

"Kisara, please let me in so we can talk." Seto pleaded.

"There's nothing to talk about, I have- "

"Then let me do all the talking."

Kisara shook her head, rolled her eyes, and gestured him in. Seto sat on the couch and began, "Yes, I know I have been neglecting you and you have been very patient with," he paused, "But – Kisara, I love you, and I don't want to lose you."

She stood up to walk towards the door, but Seto grabbed her hand, "One, just give me one more chance to make it up to you, and I promise it'll be worth it."

"How are you going to make it up to me, Seto?"

"You'll have to trust me," he squeezed her hands.

Kisara sighed, and licked her lips, "Fine," she held up her index finger, "One last chance."

Seto kissed Kisara and quickly left to go back to work. At the office Seto worked with Claire so that he could have the perfect date. However, his schedule wouldn't be open for a week, but it would a day without any work obligations – so it would be worth it.

…Le Following Week…

It was the following week, a Friday. The week seemed to drag on for both Seto and Mokuba. Mokuba had his audition in the afternoon, and Seto had his date that evening. Mokuba was working on the final touches before the band left. All the equipment was packed the night before, so it was just double checking to see if they had all they'd need and making sure all members looked presentable. Polymerization was so nervous about making a good impression that they all dressed in business attire!

…1pm…

The band was all set up and ready to play – almost. Mokuba was breathing really heavy and appeared to be close to having a panic attack. Thankfully, Akiko knew what to do, "Moke," she whispered, "Don't freak out, just think of it as any other show we've done."

Helpful words, but this was different than any other show they've done. This audition included executives and people who could change their future. Pass or fail, this could make or break them. Mokuba nodded and smiled. Together everyone stepped out, introduced themselves, and began to play for 15 nerve wracking minutes. As a whole they played phenomenally with the exception of Mokuba who messed a few notes, but caught up, and stay in rhythm and tempo.

"Thank you – uh Polymerization, you'll hear from someone by Monday," Said a woman through her clipboard.

Quickly gathering their belongings, the teens whispered words of encouragement to each other and collectively flooded out of the studio as fast as they had arrived.

…

Hours later Seto was preparing for his date. Black suit and tie, jelled hair, and pink roses with baby's breath. He could feel his palms sweat as he neared her apartment. Kisara, although skeptical of Seto's efforts was not going to hold back. She went all out, just show Seto what he's losing IF he screws up. A body hugging black cocktail dress, lace stilettos, and hair in beach waves.

"You look stunning," Seto complimented.

"How kind of you to notice," she winked.

Seto handed her the bouquet of flowers and led her to the car by the arm. Having planned the entire night Seto hoped it would be enough to make it all up to Kisara, but more importantly have her forgive him. The Russian tea room was beautiful from the red leather booths to the wall to wall portraits. The night was filled with deep conversation, flirting, and of course lovely food.

Hours later, Kisara and Seto laid together in his bed, just admiring each other. Kisara forgave Seto for efforts and was thankful for dessert.

"So next week I was thinking we could, hmm what?"

"Seto, I don't need to be wined and dined all the time," she continued, "I just want you give me the respect and recognition I deserve."

He leaned in for a kiss, "I can do that."

A/N: I hope you all have been enjoying the story so far. i'm not sure if I like how I ended this chapter, so stayed tuned for some possible updates. As always please leave an honest comment of your thoughts. Again, thank you for reading :D