A/N: I know I updated yesterday, but this chapter wrote itself! I hope you enjoy!

Yugi

Looking after these puppies has been exhausting but the most rewarding experience I have ever had. It's only been three days and I am so tired, but it is the coolest feeling seeing them put on weight, watching them grow before my eyes and seeing them improve!

Atem has taught me so much and Manah and I are getting along terrifically. Even Ankha isn't afraid of me anymore. In fact she actively seeks my attention and doesn't leave my side while I'm over.

Manah and I have worked out our schedules so she's able to care for the puppies while I'm at school and Atem is at work, and I'm able to take over the afternoon and night time shift with Atem. It's been good when all of our times meet up though. Sometimes I've gotten to spend a few hours with Manah and then most of my night with Atem. It's been great!

It'll be weird tonight though. Tonight I have a gig on and Atem won't be able to make it because he's got the babies to monitor. Manah is working so I guess it's just me tonight.

It'll be fine. A couple hours away will be good and after that maybe I can catch up on some sleep tonight. That's the plan anyway. Not that I want to spend time away from Atem but it was mutually decided that I sleep in my own bed every few days rather than on the couch.

So here I am, waiting for my stage name to be called. My usual stage jitters are here and I'm slowly sipping some water and practicing my breathing backstage. All I need to do is clear my head, find my space and live in the music.

Atem will be cheering me on. My friends will be cheering me on. I have people that love my music and I can feel my heart bubbling to be set free tonight. So long as I have my notes, my song will be heard.

I hear my stage name called and I hear the expected and excited chattering of my small crowd. One more deep breath and I follow my feet on stage and into the bright, burning lights.

The song I have chosen is an inspiring ballad that starts off low. It's a soft hum, stirring the soul to waken and become aware of it's surroundings. I dance to the tune, slowly gracing the stage and mapping out my area, pouring my heart into note I play.

With my eyes closed I can only see the brightness of the stage lights behind my lids but I have mastered this area of which I can dance. The heat pelters upon me but it is nothing compared to the melody that is growing.

I feel my heart bleeding into my song, the skin on my arms and neck prickles. My tempo increases as my song finds its voice, finds its strength and carries it throughout my world.

This song is about strength and growth, but it is also about hardship and adversity. It showcases how at the peak of our climb we often pause…

And breathe…

And give credence to our journey…

Have we overcome? Have we overstepped? Or have we taken the right or wrong path?

Then after a sigh, our momentum pushes us further. Do we crash? Or do we take the next step with conviction and pride?

Whatever the case our songs are beautiful and inspiring and we continue until we have found our true calling.

That is my song.

That is what I share with them tonight.

An inspiring piece meant to showcase our journey from our slow dawn to our epic peak to our beautiful eve.

The crowd cheers as I stand before them, unable to really see them past the bright lights. I'm sweating, I'm tired from my dance, but I feel so invigorated. I wish Atem could have seen me, but I know I have his support.

I take a bow and a grateful drink of water, before I begin my next piece for the night.

Five more songs later and I am done. I leave the stage happily and feel my way to my chair where I carefully put down my violin and bury my eyes behind my fingers.

I can't see a thing and it makes me dizzy, but it will pass. I wish I could use my phone with my mind though so I can check in on Atem. I want to know how his night has been, how the puppies are - if I can come see him instead of going home. But I can't do a thing right now.

"Mao." I look up to the friendly voice but I can only barely see her. She's like a white shadow among slightly blue moving shadows at the moment. I know this will pass and it's nothing to worry about, it's like staring at the sun for too long. I just need to adjust.

"You did great tonight. Five songs, we're impressed." Suzui is an assistant manager for the club and she's always so lovely. I work closely with her to secure gigs here and at Flamingo, the other club I play for. She's been a great supporter and friend for years now.

"Thanks." I say happily.

She laughs and takes my hand, pushing something flat into it. My paycheck.

"I'm not sure if you've seen, but the creative arts studio will be performing at the Waterfront in a few months. Are you going to be performing?"

Oh I heard about that at Uni. I'm not sure though, it's a big deal…

"I saw the flier and I know some other musicians in my class are performing. My professor is encouraging me to go and audition but I'm not sure. I mean between uni and this and work - I don't know if I have the time to practice for something so big too." I answer her, but even I can feel my heart isn't in my words.

"I think you should consider it. You'd be a hit and they'd be nuts not to have you. I mean you're the most adaptable musician I've seen, they'd have so many positions for you. You'd have your pick of the litter!"

The litter… I wonder how the puppies are.

I rub my eyes and try to blink the stars out of them. Slowly I'm starting to be able to see again.

"Well, I think you still have time to audition. Think about it. I'll be rooting for you, might even consider going if you're in it." She laughs and I laugh with her.

"Gee no pressure."

She pats me on the back suddenly and I see her form leaving.

I search for my bottle and nurse it until my eyes have adjusted. The envelope in my hands contains my weeks earnings, including any tips anyone has graciously given. I didn't work as much this week, which is why I chose to play five songs tonight instead of my usual three. But still, it's a good amount considering. I'm proud of this.

I slide out my phone and quickly navigate to Atem's number.

Me: Hey! I just finished. Would you like some company? I can bring food?

I stretch after that. I could actually do with a shower too. Wonder if I should go home and do that first before going over to Atem's place. I wouldn't want to show up all sweaty like this…

Atem: [That would be lovely! I can't wait to hear how your night went. I can pay you for dinner.]

I smile at that. He's been insisting on paying for all the takeout we've been getting since I've been staying there. He says it's a thank you for helping him with the puppies but honestly helping with them is the least I can do considering he wouldn't have them if it weren't for me. But we saved their lives so - I'm fine with it either way.

He doesn't have much stocked in the way of food though I noticed. I should take him grocery shopping soon and then we have a home cooked meal rather than take out.

Me: I'm going to go home and shower first, let me know what you'd like and I'll be there soon. :)

I scoop up my violin and happily make my way out through the back.

Playing at the Waterfront… I'd like be just another musician so it's not like it should be that much of a big deal. I mean there'd be so many there you'd hardly tell what instrument I'm playing apart.

But it could be exciting. It'd be different that's for sure. Playing in a live play? I mean, it'd be nothing compared to the small gigs I'm doing now. But… it's big. There'd be so many people, the pressure to get it right. I play with musicians from uni so we can practice together but this would be so different to what I'm used to.

I wonder if I should. For the experience? The chance of exposure? Hmmm… Maybe… I should ask my friends about it. They'll support me of course but maybe I'd get a real perspective.

"Sennen?"

I turn to the strange voice that is oddly too close and I'm caught by complete surprise when something comes out of nowhere and smacks me across the face.

I fall crashing to the ground and I land horribly upon my wrist. Pain shoots straight up my arm and I feel like I can't move my fingers, like my blood is exploding within my skin.

But I barely have time to worry about that as my collar is grabbed and I am forced into a position I cannot move from. I grab at the strong hand holding me and the man towers over me. He is broad, dressed smartly but his muscles are so built and tattoos cover what skin can be shown. I can't see his face because the shadows are so dark here, but he terrifies me.

"What do you want?!" I shriek, my voice high pitched and frightened.

He shakes me and spits at me to shut up.

"That money he gave you. Where is it?"

What money? I don't understand! "W-what are you talking about? I don't have any money!" I say rapidly. "Please, you have the wrong person. I don't -"

"Shut the fuck up!" He shouts at me and I gasp in fear, biting my lip to stop from screaming.

A hand slides into my vest and I feel him pull out my paycheck. "N-no! That's mine! Don't take it!" I try plead but he throws me back to the ground where my head connects with the concrete. My eyes are aching and I feel dizzy… but I can't sleep here… I need my money. This is a mistake.

"Fuck all in here. Where's the rest?!" He shouts at me again.

I clutch at my wrist, cradling it gently and I try to ignore the nausea starting to creep upon me. This man walks around me and through squinting eyes I notice him pick up my violin case.

"N-no…"

"The fuck is this? Spent money that doesn't belong to you on a worthless piece of shit like this? Can't even pawn this off for half the price." He says in disgust. I have half a mind to tell him to give it back then, but I know better. He'll just hurt me more if I speak.

He grabs my jaw and forces me to look at him. He's got a golden tooth… but I can't see anything else. "You get me what your brother stole, or I'll make sure you never play again." He tosses me away and he walks away… with my violin. Fuck…

"Come back…" I whisper weakly - but there's no point. He wouldn't…

What the fuck!?

Atem

With a happy hum and a dance in my step, I flow over to the puppies stirring among Ankha's fur and crouch down to stroke under Ankha's chin.

"Hey babies, Yugi will be over soon." I sing happily and sigh.

I knew it wouldn't be far-fetched that he'd come over after his gig, but I'm so happy he's decided to. I wish I could have been there to watch him. But maybe he'll bring whatever he played with tonight and play a little here. If he's not musiced out anyway.

I feel myself swooning. I can't deny it anymore. Not when it's so painfully obvious how fucking happy he makes me with a simple request of coming over. It's not like he's spent every night here since we got the puppies.

Ah! I'm so happy! "You little darlings, if you're not the reason he's coming over I can't imagine what else is bringing us closer." I whisper gently, tickling one of them lightly.

Bringing us closer… God! These little puppies have been an absolute miracle. I can't imagine what I would have done without them. But thanks to them I'm closer to Yugi than I could have hoped to be. And if I play my cards right then maybe we'll get even closer.

The notion makes my heart flutter and dance like hundreds of butterflies setting off. I feel light on my feet and a song in my soul bubbling to be set free.

I laugh and get up quickly to do a little tidying, humming a tune I don't quite know.

I suppose there's no point denying it anymore. Whatever I'm feeling is definite happiness because of him. He inspires me and fulfills my heart. He's not just another friend, he's more than that. So much more than that.

I chew my lip thinking about how great it's been having him here. I almost feel bad for stealing so much of his time, but at the same time he's been wanting to stay just as much as I've wanted him to.

Maybe… I wonder if I should make some kind of move tonight. Would that be okay? I mean we're getting quite close now. He even knows everything about all the stress I've been under and he's not dissuaded at all. He accepted all my baggage without even hesitating.

Okay. Everything's tidy. The puppies have been fed. All that's left is to wait for him. He should be over soon I think. Surely its been long enough for him to shower and what not. Though he could have showered here… I definitely wouldn't mind if he wanted to.

I shake my head at the image forming. I'm such a degenerate. But I can't help it. I know I shouldn't pervert my friend but I can't ignore this anymore.

He stole my attention the moment I heard the first chord he played. He captured my heart with his song and his beautiful soul secured his place in the depths of my heart.

Me, a straight man? Yeah! Hah! Well not anymore. Until him I couldn't imagine myself with another man. I was sure it would only be women for me, but now? I want him. He makes me so happy! And knowing that he's into men too well… how can I not be hopeful for something more?

I suppose I should tell my friends about this. They might be surprised to find out I'm… what, bi? I guess? Or… would it be pan? I don't know… I'm still getting used to the idea that his body fills my body with heat. Every time we touch I feel electrified and a desire for more of it. But it's soul I love more. His smile, the optimism and his bright vision of the world. I love his laughter, the sparkle in his eye and his playful nature. He's so spirited compared to me and brings out the best in me. The best in which I had forgotten I could be.

In such a short time, he's taught me so much about myself that I might never have come to on my own.

My phone rings and I quickly glide over to it, swooping it off the table and landing upon my couch with a happy flop. I see Yugi's number and an excited giggle erupts from deep within. He must be wondering what I'd like for dinner.

Silly man, I'd be happy with anything so long as he's here soon.

"Hey!" I greet happily, swinging my legs off the edge.

"Hello, is this Atem?"

A woman's voice?

I clear my throat and sit up straight. "Yes?"

"My name is Suzui. I work at the Tavern. I'm here with Yugi. Are you able to come and pick him up?"

Wait… what? The Tav? Where he plays? He's still there? Who is Suzui? Why does he need picking up? He drove…

"Is everything okay?" I ask. I have far too many questions.

"It's best you come right away. He… he's been hurt. He says he had plans with you …"

Hurt?!

In seconds I've gathered my keys and wallet and I'm slipping on my shoes. I let Suzui know I'm on my way and hang up the line. Briefly I look back at the puppies but I'm sure Ankha will be fine with them. They'll only be sleeping anyway. If I take too long I'll ask Manah to come by.

I shouldn't though. It depends how hurt Yugi is… and what the hell happened…

It doesn't take terribly long to get there and park. I head on through the front door with ease. The bouncer isn't on tonight and its rather quiet inside. Some people are drinking and chatting of course, but music is playing on the stereo and basic channels are playing on the TVs.

I head straight for the bar and hang noticeably close to other patrons currently being served. They and the tender look at me expectedly, clearly unimpressed with my rudeness but I can't care about that right now.

"Is Yu-" wait… stage name. "Mao. Is Mao here?"

"Mao's show ended almost an hour ago. I'm sorry you missed him." The barkeep says.

Missed him… no I got a call that he was still here. "I got a call from Suzui? She told me he was still here…" Please ring a bell. Please.

"Are you Atem?" I turn to a woman's voice coming up beside him. She's a punky looking woman with short black hair, piercings and tattoos under respectful clothing. I don't know her but she seems to be familiar with me.

"Yes?"

She smiles and tilts her head for me to follow her. "Come with me. He's okay Ben." She says.

I swiftly follow her all the way towards the staff area. I've never been this way and it feels wrong to step through personnel only doors but if I'm with her I guess I'm fine.

"Thank you for coming." She says, glancing back at me quickly as she guides us down a dark hallway, lit by warm lights. It's narrow but we're able to walk swiftly together.

"Are you a friend? A cousin…?"

Cousin?! "No." I laugh. "We're friends. That's all." I say happily.

"Cool. So I haven't gotten the full story but I believe he was mugged outside. We're looking through the security cameras now. He's in a bit of shock and isn't talking too much."

My heart sinks and thuds painfully at the mentioned of the word mugged. I can't believe he was attacked … and he's hurt too. What happened?!

I don't say anything until we find him but thankfully this place isn't large. She leads me into a room at the end of the hall. This must be some kind of office. It has desks, filing cabinets along the wall, computers and many monitors. Two people are combing through what I assume is footage but my attention is immediately drawn to Yugi sitting in a simple chair by the desk. He's huddled over as best he can, holding his right arm so his hand is raised and tense. He's slightly shaking too, bouncing his leg nervously.

"Yugi." I swoop over to him, quickly coming to my knees before him. He flinches but he smiles weakly when he sees me.

"Hey." He whispers. He looks so sad and frightened. I need to protect him. Whoever did this won't get away with hurting him.

"What happened?" I ask him gently, reaching up to wipe away the stray tear.

Yugi leans into my hand and I can't help but stroke his cheek with my thumb. He sniffs and blinks quickly, sitting up straighter as he wipes the remaining tears away. But he keeps his right hand awkwardly up…

"I was about to leave when this guy came up to me. I couldn't see his face, it was too dark. He swung at me out of no where and I fell on my hand. Then he grabbed me and I could get him off. He took my paycheck and my … my violin.. and he left. He thought I was someone else… I think. I didn't know what he was talking about… but I was so scared."

That creep! Not only did they hurt him but they stole his money and his violin? But his violin is his favourite… damn it!

"We have it." I hear one of the men say. They move to show us the footage and quietly I watch as the scene unfolds.

He's right. The man that attacked him came out of the shadows and straight out attacked him. It infuriates me to watch this but I watch the whole thing. From the moment Yugi's thrown to the ground to the moment this thug leaves.

"We'll have to call the police and report this." One of the men say and I catch Yugi's breath hitching.

"D-do you have to?" He asks nervously.

"This guy needs to be caught, Yugi. He can't get away with this." I say softly.

He grimaces at me but doesn't fight at least.

"We have to report this. It's a safety issue for our staff and our patrons." The man says again.

Yugi nods and curls up on himself again.

"Can we give the police your details?" Suzui asks him softly and he nods again. "Thank you. In that case, Atem, his wrist has been hurt. Looks like it was in the fall. We have ice but I think it'd be best to take him to a hospital."

"It's not that bad." Yugi says suddenly but I'm not taking his word for it. He's frightened and hurt, what he wants most right now is safety. But the way he landed and if the rigidness in his fingers is any indication, then he can't move it without pain.

"May I?" I ask softly, getting up on my knees to take a closer look.

He hesitates but allows me to inspect it. I'm no physician but I've helped enough injured animals to detect a little bit. How different can a wrist be?

I don't touch him. On sight I can see it's very swollen and reddened. His fingers look a little puffy but the swelling is heavy around the wrist joint. There are scrapes on the inside of his palm and tiny rocks of gravel dug into his skin. No blood though. He might have sprained it, worse case scenario there might be a break?

"Can you move your fingers?" I ask. He grimaces but he does his best to twitch them. He curls them until he whimpers and then I quickly touch his shoulder to get him to stop.

"Don't push. That's enough." I say and he breathes out slowly. More tears fall down his cheeks and he's screwed his eyes closed tightly. He's in so much pain. "I think I better take you to a hospital."

"But-" His voice is thick but he's not very strong right now. Poor thing is so vulnerable. I need to care for him.

"No buts. It's best to get this professionally treated. I'll be with you the whole time."

"W-what about the puppies?" He asks quietly.

My heart… he's worried about them now? "I'll ask Manah to go over and mind them until we get back." I say warmly, stroking more tears from his cheeks.

He nods weakly and takes a wavering breath to settle himself down. I stand and wait for him, looking over at Suzui. I'm sure one of the men is a manager and the other might be security, but I've met her.

"I'll take care of Yugi and make sure he's seen to by a doctor. He'll be safe with me." I say strongly and she smiles warmly.

"Thank you. His car is still here but he won't be driving it any time soon. I think it might be best to arrange it moved back home …"

"I'll call a friend to move it tomorrow if that's okay?" Yugi asks, still wiping some stray tears and trying to make his voice sound firmer. He's been shaken to his core though, the poor thing.

"That's fine. It's more for your cars safety than anything." Suzui says kindly.

Yugi stands then, wincing and hissing as the movement alone must be hurting him.

"We're sorry this happened Yugi. I promise we'll get to the bottom of this and do everything we can to compensate you for your losses." One of the men say. He's a rounder man… the manager I'd say.

"Thank you. I'm sorry for all this." Yugi says meekly, standing close to me for support. I happily drape an arm around him; partially to help and protect him but also it's a nice excuse to keep him close.

"No no. This is on us. To allow someone like that anywhere near the building. Who know who else he might attack. It's best if the police know someone like that is attacking people so recklessly." The man standing says. He looks much stronger. Perhaps he's supposed to be the bouncer here tonight.

Yugi says nothing but he steps a little closer to me. That's my queue to get us moving.

"Rick would you mind escorting them to their car?" The man sitting asks and the man standing bows his head.

"Of course."

"Be well Yugi. Take it easy okay?" Suzui says kindly, touching Yugi's shoulder fondly.

"Thanks Suzui. Good night guys." He says and he lets me gently walk him out.

I follow the tall, buff man, Rick. But it's not far to the back entrance. As we get outside Yugi bumps into me and I hold him closer. He must be so afraid right now.

I see his car over there… judging by the footage it would have happened just over there. "Do you have everything else you need? Anything else you want to pick up from your car?" I ask him quietly.

He shakes his head and turns his face towards my chest. "No."

"Okay."

Together I lead us to my car parked closer to the road and more in the light. It's safer over here. It feels odd to leave his car here but I'm sure it'll be fine.

Rick escorts us the entire way and stands on guard even as I help Yugi into the passenger seat. He's in so much pain that even walking hurts his wrist. He keeps it up though, squeezing his arm tightly. We'll get it looked at and hopefully it's not broken. Poor thing won't be playing for a while though.

Politely I say goodnight to Rick and he stands guard even as I pull us out and leave the lot.

Yugi's quiet most of the way and I've no idea what to say. I'm furious on his behalf but anger isn't what he needs right now. If I was hurt I'd want to hide away and not be fussed over, but I have no idea how Yugi deals with pain. I'm out of my element here.

"Do you um.. do you live alone? Is there someone we should tell that you've been hurt?" I ask.

I hear him sob and look over to catch him shaking his head no. I lean over when it's safe to show him I have a box of tissues in the glove box and he thanks me quietly.

"I'm sorry. Seems I'm always asking you for help, huh?" He says after he dries himself up. I laugh lightly because he has no idea how much he's actually helped me and how happy it makes me to be relied on again. Not that I want him hurt but I'm more than happy to help care for him.

"Don't worry about it. Besides you've helped me more than you know."

He laughs. "By bringing puppies into your home and then getting you to take me to the hospital? Uhuh. I get you to take me to all the cool places that cool kids hang out."

I laugh at that. I'm glad he's able to make jokes. "Yeah! Do you know how many times I get to go to the hospital? This is new and exciting for me."

He laughs harder but the bounce of the car and his laughter makes him groan and wince in pain.

'I'll…mmm…try to get hurt … more often then." He says with teeth gritted in pain.

"As exciting as this is, please no." I say sadly. I hate that he's in so much pain. I really hope it's not too serious. "It doesn't look broken at least."

"Mmm, it fucking feels it."

Ooh a curse. He rarely swears. Goes to show how much it must be hurting.

"We'll be at the hospital soon. Hopefully they'll x-ray it, bandage it up and give you something for the pain."

Once we got to the hospital and we saw the receptionist, I sat Yugi down and threw Manah a quick text to ask her to keep an eye on the puppies. I told her I was with Yugi at the hospital too but that we should be home tonight.

I don't think this visit will take long, but waiting to be seen normally does, especially nowadays. Thankfully the triage officer gave Yugi an icepack to hold against his wrist and instructed him to hold it upright like he's been doing.

While we waited I asked him to tell me how the show went. I figure if I keep him talking then it might distract from the pain. But… talking about the show made him even more sad because of his violin. He's heartbroken over it, the poor thing. Music is his life; to have his favourite instrument stolen right from under him must have been traumatic.

"The police will catch this guy and when they do maybe they'll recover it." I say, trying to sound encouraging but not even I know for sure how reassuring that is.

"They'll want to talk to me huh?" He whispers. He sounds afraid. His lips tremble and he looks so small.

I rotate myself to face him better and to my surprise he leans into me, forcing me to hold him. I … actually love this but now is not the time to get distracted. He needs me now to protect him.

"I think so. They'll want a proper statement." I say quietly. He turns his head into my chest and I rest my chin upon him, rubbing soothing motions into his back. I hope he can't hear how fast my heart is racing.

"I'll probably drag you into it." I hear him mutter quietly. I sigh softly and rest my cheek against him. His hair is so soft. I never got the chance to notice this before.

"Don't worry about me. You're the one who's hurt right now." I say softly. I might be enjoying this a little too much.

He sniffs and sobs quietly before he sits himself up, taking a large deep breath and looking up at the ceiling, wiping away tears with his arm as best he can. I laugh and help him out. He really shouldn't be moving too much.

"The guy he… he thought I was someone else." He says. His eyes are red and puffy, his cheeks are blemished, still he looks so cute… but I listen to his words, to anything he wants to say.

"He called me 'Sennen'."

…

"He told me to get him what my brother stole or… or…"

Brother…?

He's struggling and the tears are flowing freely again. He shakes suddenly and I act quickly to hold him, pulling him back to me and hushing him gently. I try to encourage him to take deep, slow breaths and he breathes alongside me.

When he's calm, I keep my voice level and patient and free of any anger that might seep through. "Did he threaten you?"

He nods into my chest and I take a quiet, slow and careful deep breath. "Do you have a brother?" I ask him, but I feel since he mentioned my last name that I know the answer.

"No… I'm an only child." He pulls back from me enough to look up at me, his eyes swimming and it breaks my heart to see.

"You said your brother recently paid his debt to you…"

I did… "Yes…" I say quietly.

He nods slowly and lays back down against me. I rub circles across his back idly but I am seething.

I knew that money would cause problems. I knew it was shady! I haven't heard from Akefia since he gave me that money and its still safe in my kitchen - but I need to talk to him about it now. If someone is angry with him, if someone is coming after me for it - well Yugi got hurt because of it. He was robbed blind and injured because of it. This is my fault.

Right now, I will see to Yugi. I will see that he's looked after and when he is resting I will try to contact Akefia. If he's not gotten himself killed then he will answer for this. I don't want that money if it's going to bring harm to me or my friends.

I accompany Yugi while a doctor examines him. We tell him roughly what happened, how he was assaulted and landed on his hand wrong at least. Yugi tells him how he hit his head too which I didn't know about but it seems it's just a bump and he should be fine.

The doctor examines his wrist closely and Yugi holds and squeezes my hand while the doctor moves and presses his fingers, his hand and around his wrist. The pained noises he makes makes me wince. I've a tougher stomach dealing with animals but hearing Yugi hurt? I hate it.

He whimpers and moans and I just want the doctor to stop - but I know this is for him. He needs to endure it just a bit longer.

When he's finally done hurting him it's time for an x-ray. The doctor says he doesn't think it's broken, but it's just to cover their basis' just in case there's a fracture - but again he doesn't sound convinced. He says it's more than likely a heavy sprain and that should heal in about a week or two.

So after the x-ray we are free to leave. He bandages his wrist tightly. So tight he can barely move his fingers but that is the point. He's been instructed to keep it elevated or in a position that decreases blood flow to reduce the swelling. He's also told him to keep an ice pack on for an hour, off for half an hour and back on, also to reduce swelling. And he's to take pain medication every 4 hours for the next few days or until the pain reduces. We should get his results within the week as well but if the pain persists longer than two weeks then he's to see a doctor.

I assure the doctor he'll be in good care and happily help him pay for the visit. He insists on paying me back but honestly since his pay check was just stolen from him, I really don't mind forking the fee.

"I'm sorry for causing so much trouble." He says quietly as we get back into the car.

"It's no problem. Though if you wanted to do something different with me, you didn't need to go this far."

He laughs and it's lovely to hear. He seems to be doing much better now that he's all bandaged up.

"I'd… I'd like that." He says quietly.

I'm confused though. "Like what?"

"Nothing." He says softly, looking out the window. I missed something… but what.

Oh! "Did you want to grab anything to eat on our way home?"

"Oh yeah, I was gonna bring us back some dinner huh?" He says and I smile at him.

"We can grab some now. What do you feel like?"

He insists on carrying our meal back up to my apartment and I suppose after all he's been through I can allow that. He's a little more cheered up now even if he is still sticking close to my side. Not that I am complaining at all.

I'm relieved the door is unlocked and more so to find Manah has indeed let herself in. She's cheerful in greeting us and careful to approach.

"Hey guys! Yugi, are you okay?!" She asks, easily by passing me to gently pull Yugi in an obvious and slow hug.

Manah is an excitable and eccentric bubbly person, however she's also extremely intuitive and likely immediately saw the bandage on Yugi's arm. She knew we were at the hospital too but beyond that, his condition is unknown to her.

Thankfully though they've been getting along like a house on fire. So it's lovely to see them cuddle like this. My best friend with me … crush? I guess? It fills my heart with joy.

"Hey Manah. Yeah, I'll be okay. Thankfully Atem's been helping me." He says warmly and tiredly. He must be feeling exhausted by now.

I take the bag of food from him and Manah walks him into the living room to get settled.

"Ohh that smells nice." She coos loudly and I laugh.

"I brought some for you too."

I separate our meals slowly. Partially to slow myself down a moment and to let them bond a little longer. I enjoy listening to them talk. Manah practically fawns over Yugi and if she wasn't with Mahad I'd feel a little concerned. But she adores him, and that doesn't help me form an unbiased opinion of what my own feelings are for him. Not when she's rooting for us.

While they're talking though… I rest on the counter and sigh quietly. A dull ache is forming at the bridge of my nose and the base of my skull and I know it to be stress.

Akefia… it is one thing to incidentally drag me into his messes, but Yugi was seriously hurt tonight, he was robbed and it could have been so much worse. That man was violent, and thrice his size according to the video. He could have severely hurt him more if anything at all had gone worse. And Yugi isn't a part of this in the slightest.

I'm glad I haven't touched the money, but it'd be too obvious for me to check on it right now. I'll wait til later to make sure it's still there. I've not touched it, but Akefia knows his way in and out of my house. If this guy is looking for it and he's willing to hurt me or my friends, then I want to know where it is.

I need to talk to Kef about this. I need to know who he stole it from, how he knows I have it… and why did he go after Yugi instead?

Yugi told me the man called him Sennen… it's possible in the dark Yugi was mistaken for me. We have similar silhouettes and I like to think I'm not widely known among the crime lords of this city. But they know enough to track me down and mistake him for me. That in itself is enough of a threat that I cannot ignore.

Next time… it might be worse. I cannot let that happen.

"Hey where's our food?!" Manah calls out loudly.

I take a breath and rub my face. "Coming!" Quickly I get out everything we need and join them on the couch.

"You know I own a dining table." I muse, stepping awkwardly over Yugi's legs so I may sit beside him. He moves back but we still share a shy little glance.

"Yeah but you've got stuff all over it." Manah says. I look behind us and laugh.

"That stuff is yours."

"Eh! Gimme gimme!" I shake my head and begin divvying out the food.

Unfortunately eating wasn't entirely something we thought about. Yugi's right handed and currently, eating anything isn't too easy. I helped him unwrap his burger and Manah helped him with a straw in his drink. Everything else he seemed fine with but it seems for now he may need to rely on us a little longer.

"So… what happened?" Manah asks curiously with a mouthful of food.

Yugi's just taken a bite though. "May I?" I ask him and he nods happily.

"He was attacked and mugged in the carpark at the Tavern. Some guy looking for me I think."

"Looking for you? He did that?" She asks in alarm. Yugi looks at me, worried but not ready to stop me.

"Sort of. He threw Yugi to the ground and he landed on his hand, but he did assault him. He stole Yugi's paycheck and his violin, and threatened him with violence if… well if he didn't return the money my brother stole."

"Why did he threaten Yugi though? Of all people?" She asks.

"It seems he thought Yugi was me. In the dark, he had us confused. Yugi has nothing to do with this but he still got caught in the crossfire. I'm so sorry Yugi." I say sadly, turning to him sincerely.

He shakes his head and sadly smiles at me. "It's not your fault either. It sounds like the money your brother gave you might not be his to give." He says calmly. He's taking this really well for someone who might have a broken hand. I don't know why he's not more furious.

"Still. This is the kind of bullshit people have left me for. Tea warned me something like this might happen one day. Whether I'd get hurt, or someone else. I hoped with the money returned that'd be the end of it."

"What do we do then?" Manah asks softly.

"We do nothing. I need to talk to my brother and I need him to handle this. I'm wary to trust him with the money, but I'd like him there at least if and when I make any kind of trade. I don't want any of you involved in this and if it means no one gets hurt, then the debt is off." I say firmly and with complete conviction.

"Are you sure?" Manah asks me. "Atem we don't want you involved in this. You shouldn't be talking to this guy even if he does own the money. You should go to the police, with the money, and get them to handle it."

"I agree with Manah. Atem this sounds dangerous." Yugi agrees with her, but I can't say I'm surprised.

"I'm not sure if I can go to the police. Going to them would be practically handing them my brother. He's out by the skin of his teeth, if he's caught doing one more crime -"

"Then he gets what he bought!" Manah snaps at me suddenly. "Atem. Whatever your brother is doing is endangering the people you love. Look at Yugi. He's hurt because of this."

I do look at him, and I feel so conflicted. Akefia's my brother. If I go to the police about this… I'll be in trouble too for supplying Akefia with funds in the first place. I don't know exactly what he was doing with it, but I knew it wasn't law abiding. I'd be an accessory and he… he'll likely go back to jail.

"I won't let any harm come to him, you or anyone -"

"Yugi is already hurt!" Manah argues firmly.

"Guys…" Yugi speaks up quietly and it's effective in making us quiet.

I understand where Manah is coming from - but this is too big a decision to make lightly.

"I know he's your brother." Manah speaks softly and I listen to her patiently. "I understand that this isn't a clean issue. The police will investigate you too, they need to track this money and where it came from and it'll likely go to court to determine who is the rightful owner of it. It won't be easy - but please consider it as a possibility before recklessly going after this guy yourself."

… She's right.

"Think about it." She continues. "What will you do if you give back the money and he hurts you and your brother anyway for stealing it in the first place. These guys, do you think they'll accept an apology and simply let you walk away? You supplied Akefia with this money to start with, what makes you think they won't try to drain you further when you walk up to them with fifteen grant in an envelope. You - a game developer for Kaiba Corp. They won't let you walk away so easily."

I sigh and lean back. I'm not frustrated, but I am tired. I hope this was over, but she's right. I don't know what to do. What's the best thing to do? Am I mentally prepared to go down the long, gruesome path of the law abiding citizen, or do I take a chance at erasing this quickly?

"I know you're right." I say quietly, reaching for my chips. "I'll think about it before I do anything."

"Will you?" She asks accusingly. I throw her a little glare but she doesn't back down.

"Yes. I promise. Besides you're right. If I'm reckless then I might further endanger you and Yugi, Mahad too… and maybe mum and dad. Too many people are at stake here."

She seems satisfied with that and finally smiles. "Good. I'm sorry to be firm but I just don't want you getting hurt."

"I know. I appreciate you." I say kindly. I mean it too. I know I can be reckless and thoughtless - but this could endanger people I care about. I can't afford to do this rashly.

"Thank you for looking after the puppies. How are they?" Yugi asks suddenly and I think we're all grateful for the change in topic.

"They're adorably sleeping. Due to be fed in about an hour ish." Manah says dutifully.

"Thank you. I didn't know how long we'd be at the hospital." I say warmly.

"No problem. So what did they say?" She turns her question to Yugi and he grimly smiles.

"Well, it doesn't look broken. Likely a sprain. I'll know in a few days when the x-ray comes back." He says. "I just have to rest it and keep it elevated."

"I'll make sure he does." I say throwing him a cheeky wink just to watch the pink in his cheeks grow and his smile deepen.

When dinner is finished we sit and enjoy each other company for a little while. I make sure Yugi takes some pain medication, but the only ones I have are ones with codeine in it. Not entirely a bad choice given the evening he's had, but it means that soon he'll likely be fast asleep.

So Manah says her goodnights, squeezing Yugi good and tight by the door. I just get my usual hug. I joke about this but she just waves me off like a fly. When she's gone Yugi turns to me sharply.

"I'm so sorry she hugged me more than you."

…

I burst into laughter at this and walk further in the house, shaking my head. He's so adorable.

"It's alright, we're family. I was only joking. Besides…" I turn back to look at him and sigh gently. I really like seeing him standing in my home. It feels nice and natural … "I'm glad she loves you so much. It makes me happy."

His smile is the sweetest thing. He cuddles his wrist and sways ever so gently, with the most precious smile gracing his delicate features. He is such a vision, one I wish to protect with everything I have.

Slowly he comes up to me and I find myself breathless before him. The poor thing looks exhausted but he looks up at me with wide, enchanting eyes and the softest cheeks.

He let me stroke them earlier, he leaned into me earlier. I wonder… would he…?

I feel his fingers press against my chest as mine gently brush his golden bangs behind his ear. His eyes are watching my lips and I'm afraid he might hear the rapid thumping of my heart beat.

I want to kiss him. I want to feel how soft his lips are, to know if he'd like it. I want to feel close to him and hold him and claim his as mine to protect and nurture.

I feel myself lean toward him and the hitch in his breath makes me pause. I'm moving too fast! He was just attacked tonight, I can't put this on him too!

"I'm sorry." I whisper quickly and putting just enough distance between us that shouldn't be overwhelming.

"D-don't be…" He whispers and then he shakes his head quickly. "But um… I was wondering if it would be okay if I could use the shower? I won't take up too much water, just… after tonight well -"

"Of course! I'm sure you're exhausted too. The codeine should be taking effect as well. I'll um, get some clothes you can borrow and lay them out for you and I want you to take my bed tonight. You need a good nights rest."

He nods and surprisingly doesn't fight me on this. He's quite cooperative and as soon as the bathroom door closes I lean against the opposing wall, sighing heavily and letting my body sag under the weight.

I almost blew it. But this is a good sign I think… Hopefully… He didn't stop me exactly. I just need to pick my time right … I think.

For now he needs rest and I have a LOT I need to think about.