AN: Have a lemon. On the house ;)
Catching a killer proved to be elusive in the following days. Malik worked with several officers, keeping an eye on the district while Ryou paced around Jack the Ripper's 'fishing pool,' as the detective like to put it. Nine days had passed and nothing had bitten thus far.
Ryou, admittedly, had been approached by several men seeking service. Only one threatened to turn violent when he refused, which forced an officer nearby to act. It was a good thing that he stepped in instead of Malik, otherwise Malik couldn't promise that his face would have remained intact.
Malik's exhaustion didn't help. On top of going to the stake out every night, Malik had gotten word from his older brother that Pegasus was tired of him not showing up to work. While Rishid had done his best to cover for him, even he couldn't hide the fact that he was trying to do the work of three Ishtar siblings.
So after staying up all night, Malik would then rush to the university to help his brother until Rishid ordered him to go get rest. He would be too tired to argue and make the trip back home. Or, at least, he did the first day. But after two hours of turning restlessly in his own bed, Malik got up and went back to Ryou's flat, where the two would fall asleep in each other's arms until work that night.
His newly realized affection for Ryou was… startling to say the least.
Malik had never bothered with people before. His sister would often tease him, urging him and Rishid to court a young lady and settle down. The idea never appealed to him and he never felt any real attachment or longing for intimacy. He supposed this was a result of his own personal trauma, where he felt disgusted about the idea of someone touching his body so freely. Especially when he had lacked control over his own life for so long.
True, he had grown close to the detective. He realized that he considered him a close friend. He looked forward to every moment he got to spend with him and dreaded getting through the next day until he finally saw him again.
But it wasn't until Ryou kissed him that those pieces all fell into place.
Malik made the trip back from the university, his feet moving him forward. His brain felt like liquid, a lack of sleep catching up to him. He was starting to turn into Ryou. He barely registered the fact that he had arrived at the apartment complex, letting himself in with the key that Ryou had finally provided him.
He tossed his coat and vest on the couch, kicking his shoes off near the door. He wandered back to the bedroom, knowing that was where he would find Ryou. Sure enough, he noticed the white hair that sparkled as the sunlight escaped through the curtains. It was difficult to be nocturnal, Malik surmised, sitting down on the bed for a moment.
He fell back, head landing heavily on the pillow. Ryou stirred, his head popping up and he smiled at Malik. He found himself returning the smile, an almost reflexive action. It was weird how heart seemed to skip a beat whenever he saw that rare smile. Ryou moved a bit closer, a hand coming up to undo a few buttons on Malik's white shirt. "How was work?"
"Terrible. I'm fairly certain Pegasus is still pissed at me for our little stunt at his estate a few weeks back."
Ryou moved up a bit, resting his cheek against Malik's shoulder. "Do you think he knows that we know?"
Malik considered the question, moving his arm to wrap around Ryou's shoulder as he ran his fingers through his white hair. The fact that Ryou had cut it still disappointed him. He wished he had figured out his feelings sooner so he could have enjoyed his long, beautiful hair. It couldn't grow out soon enough.
"If he does, he hasn't shown any indication towards me. He's still his usual boisterous self at work – which is unbearable." Malik frowned. He had been certain that Pegasus would have tried something by now.
"I'm guessing it's because you have dirt on each other," Ryou murmured, still sounding a bit sleepy. A hand wandered around his exposed chest, his pale fingers gently teasing the warm muscle underneath. "If you go the police with your evidence, you'll lose your job. But if he fires you, there's nothing stopping you from pushing your case against him. A stalemate."
Malik nodded – what Ryou suggested made sense. "So we can't do anything to each other right now. We just have to catch him in the act."
"Pretty much. He's certainly taking his sweet time on this one." Ryou huffed, annoyance bleeding into his voice. Malik knew that the detective was probably as tired as he was. Ryou stayed up and reported to Kaiba after each night to assure him that that these night patrols weren't a waste of money. Although the commissioner was aware this was their best chance at catching the killer, it was still a long shot all the same.
"The sooner he makes his move, the sooner we can catch him. And then this case will finally be over," Malik groaned, his eyes fluttering shut. "I'm ready for everything to be back to normal in my life and not deal with this bullshit."
Ryou shifted slightly under him. "Oh, that's… right. I suppose you'll be looking forward to going back to the university." Malik paused as he felt Ryou shift, something suddenly feeling off. "I… Sorry, I just got use to you being around and all that, I didn't think-"
That's when it hit him. Malik snapped his eyes open, shifting so that he could face Ryou. "No! That's not- I still want to see if you, if you want to.. That is-"
Malik felt his cheeks burning, but he imagined it was no more than Ryou's were, his face deepening into a dark rose. He struggled to find the words, suddenly tongue-tied as he tried to express himself. He was still so new to this and didn't know how to go about such matters.
Still, he could feel Ryou's dark brown eyes watching, careful and hesitant. Malik knew that he was just as guarded as himself, always tentative about opening himself up emotionally. It was easy to rush forward, their bodies speaking when their words failed. Vulnerability was difficult, and Ryou had done more to extend and put himself out there than Malik ever did.
Perhaps he should meet him in the middle.
Malik sighed, taking his free hand to cup Ryou's cheek. His heart jumped up into his throat, forcing Malik to swallow hard before speaking; "I don't want this to be a passing thing. I don't know much of what to do and I lack any experience in romance… but I can't imagine going back to my life before without you in it."
Ryou's eyes fluttered shut as he leaned into Malik's hand. His pale hands came to rest on Malik's chest, a shaky note to his voice. "It's… it's not going to be easy you know. We'll have to remain professional everywhere we go and discreet as possible. It can be quite draining."
"I don't care. I want you. You can't change my mind," Malik promised him, a smirk growing on his face.
Ryou chuckled, the corners of his mouth twitching up into a smile. "Of course. How could I forget that you're the most stubborn man alive?"
"It's quite insulting how you forget that so quickly."
Ryou laughed, leaning forward. Their lips brushed each other, slow and languid. There was no rush, their tongues passing against each other as they tasted and explored each other's mouth through taste and feel. Malik wanted to forget everything else in his life and just kiss Ryou all day. He seemed to forget how tired he felt, too caught up with tasting Ryou and how his body curled into his own.
Ryou rolled them, pushing Malik back into the bed while Ryou hovered over him. Their kisses intensified, picking up in speed. Malik snorted, trying to pull away. "Ryou, I need to get some rest."
"Uh huh," Ryou murmured between kisses, not particularly caring.
Malik twisted his head away, but that only invited Ryou to kiss and suck along his neck. He gasped, biting back a moan, neck tingling with delight. "Ryouuuu… I need… sleep-ah…"
"I'm not tired though," Ryou remarked, whispering into his ear before traveling back down his jawline.
Malik, despite his growing arousal, giggled at this. "But I am!"
Ryou chuckled, sitting up as he looked down at Malik. He could only stare up, wondering what the albino was planning with that devilish grin on his face. "Tell you what – you help tire me out and I'll let you sleep. Sound fair?"
"Hardly. Why do I have to help you so I can get some rest?"
"I promise you'll like it." Ryou winked, an amorous look on his face.
The shift in tone caught Malik's attention. He found himself grinning, propping himself up on his forearms to draw himself closer, his nose brushing against Ryou's. "Oh yeah? What did you have in mind?"
Ryou leaned back, rummaging around his bedside table. Malik raised an eyebrow, confused for a moment before Ryou pulled out a small, clear jar filled with oil. It only took a second for it to set in, Malik's heart starting to race from both excitement and nervousness. They had been pleasuring each other with their hands and mouths, so it made sense that this was the next step.
Still, there was something nerve-wracking about Ryou grabbing the oil. As if to say he's ready and wanted to move forward. Not that Malik didn't feel the same way - He wanted to, like really wanted to, but he was also rather… new to all of this, simply put.
"Is that alright with you?" Ryou asked, a cautious look on his face as watched Malik's changing expression.
Malik swallowed, forcing himself to nod. "Uh, yeah. So are you going to… or do you want me to-" He snapped his head away, feeling embarrassed. He hated how he acted like some blushing maiden, struggling to speak about the obvious before him.
Ryou smiled, his hand brushing against his cheek. Malik felt his ears burn at the touch, but he still relished the caress. "You can do me… I think it'll be easier for our first time. Will you be okay on your back or do you want to switch to a different position?"
Malik blinked, considering what Ryou suggested. He hadn't even thought about how his scars might become irritated in the act. It hadn't been an issue over the last few days. Often times, he was too lost in physical pleasure to notice the constant irritation of his tortured skin. He shifted slightly, seeing how his back felt. "I think I'll be good? Maybe if I sit up?"
Ryou nodded, shifting back slightly. As Malik pushed himself up, Ryou fiddled with his belt, struggling to remove it. Despite their best efforts, they both ended up having to stand up to remove the rest of their clothes. Once freed, Ryou sat in Malik's lap, his pale legs straddling his hips. The feel of his body pressed against his was enough to send Malik's cock twitching in pleasure.
Before they could get carried away kissing, Ryou broke away, opening the jar. He coated two fingers in the oil. Malik watched as Ryou lifted himself up slightly, prepping himself with one finger. The sight of Ryou spread like that made Malik feel dizzy, his breath hitching. He wrapped a copper arm around his waist to help hold Ryou up, slowly kneading his cock.
Ryou groaned at his touch, swaying slightly as he tried to pump himself into Malik's fist as well as grind down against his finger. His eyes fluttered, remaining half open as he rocked, trying to make the most of both sensations. Malik panted, peppering the pale chest before him with sporadic kisses.
There was something unendingly arousing about watching Ryou lose himself in pleasure. Malik watched the coral staining Ryou's cheeks spread across his face as he gasped for air. His white hair laid wild around his face, an almost desperate, hungry look in his eyes. It made Malik hunger for Ryou as well.
After a while, Malik watched as Ryou switched to two fingers, stretching himself in preparation for what would come. As Ryou reached back to coat his fingers again and add another finger, Malik spoke, pulling his hand away to rest on Ryou's wrist; "Want me to?"
Ryou paused, his face deepening to a darker red as he nodded. Malik licked his lips, drawing his hand away. He made sure all three fingers were saturated before moving back, ignoring how the oil dripped onto the blanket. For a moment, he searched, tentative as he tried to find Ryou's entrance, heartbeat in his ears. He experimented with one finger, jerky and nervous, though Ryou didn't comment, eyes squeezed in shut what Malik (hoped) was pleasure.
Intuitively, Malik knew the general idea of sex, but he felt clumsy and anxious when confront with the tasks. After seeing Ryou's earlier strained expression, Malik tried slipping two fingers in slowly, wanting to get a feel first before plunging in with three fingers. This time, Malik kept the motion smooth and languid, a breathy moan low on Ryou's lips. Malik swallowed, heart thudding in his chest. The unexpected tightness and heat around his fingers made his throat go dry. It made him look forward to what was to come. He pumped in, trying different angles to see how Ryou would react.
Ryou panted, little moans slipping past his lips. He wrapped his arms loosely around Malik's neck, focusing on riding Malik's fingers as if it were his cock. Malik moved to three fingers, trying to stretch him. He heard Ryou grit his teeth for a moment, the discomfort fading quickly as he groaned, tossing his head back.
"Malik, please- I- I'm ready," Ryou murmured, leaning down to whisper into Malik's ear. He swallowed, forcing himself to nod. Arousal replaced his earlier sense of embarrassment, but he still felt a little bashful moving forward. As he pulled away, Ryou grabbed the oil again, using it to coat Malik's cock.
As Ryou wrapped his fist around Malik, he panted, groaning loudly. He was amazed he didn't cum then and there, but Ryou kept the movement slow, making sure that he was greased up and ready. Malik leaned against Ryou's shoulder, murmuring profanities in his native tongue. English was difficult to think of when this close to rapture.
Once satisfied, Ryou let go, lifting up his hips. Malik helped guide him, holding Ryou by his hip as he pressed the head of his erection against his entrance. After a few tentative pushes, Ryou slowly sank down, their foreheads pressed together as he sank down to his base. Malik sputtered, unable to breathe; Ryou felt glorious around him. They both sat there, panting, struggling to catch their breath.
"Christ, Ryou," Malik whispered out, unable to find his voice, hoarse and raspy. "You're so f-fucking tight."
Ryou shook his head, a breathless chuckle. "Am I? I couldn't tell." Ryou lifted up a few inches before plunging back down. Malik groaned, suddenly needing more. It was too slow, the pace so agonizingly slow that Malik was stuck between pleasure and torture. He knew that Ryou was still adjusting, but goddamn, was self-control difficult.
Malik's patience was rewarded as Ryou started to pick up the pace, plunging up and down on his cock. Malik couldn't mute himself, groaning and crying out in pleasure. He reached up, trying to kiss Ryou, but their pace was too sloppy, too difficult to kiss properly. Malik decided to set his attention along Ryou's collarbone, kissing, sucking and biting wherever he could reach.
Ryou tipped his head back, his short hair only brushing his shoulder. Malik felt Ryou's hands tighten in his hair, trying to move faster. Ryou grew louder, low wails slipping past as his cock twitched for attention. Malik wanted to wait until Ryou was close, both wanting to orgasm but also not rush this experience. He hung to the brink, enjoying the buzzing pleasure that had an almost alcoholic effect on his brain.
Malik lowered one hand, kneading at Ryou's ass as he urged him to move faster. Ryou jerked at that, his flesh squeezing around Malik. He found his hips jerking up, trying to move faster, move deeper. He needed more contact, more pleasure. It consumed Malik as he tried to relish every sensation.
Ryou got close, his voice growing louder. The sound drove Malik forward, suddenly lifting Ryou up. The detective yelped slightly, taken back by the gesture before relaxing on the bed when Malik laid him down, legs spread to welcome Malik back in. Malik plunged back finding better purchase against the bed. He lifted Ryou up by his hips, his hips quickening and rushing towards that invisible horizon. Ryou cooed and moaned under him, scarlet burning across his face, smoldering eyes mesmerizing Malik. He snapped his hips forward, deep as he could.
Not long after, Malik found release, his forehead pressing against the sweat-dappled chest before him. He poured into Ryou, a few last jerks before leaning over, close to his partner. He couldn't breathe, his head buzzing and his body tingling. Fingers tugging at his hair and the erection pressed between their stomachs reminded Malik that Ryou hadn't finished yet.
Malik pushed himself up on his forearm, looking down at pale features turned rose. His right hand came forward, still slippery with oil as he pumped Ryou in earnest. Malik could tell by the way his cockhead swelled that Ryou was close. His partner squeezed his eyes shut, arms tightening around Malik's neck. Ryou trembled, crying out, "Fuck! Malik- I- I'm- ahh!"
Malik watched Ryou arch, his hips giving a last few jerks as semen splattered onto his pale stomach, the white seed nearly translucent on his skin. Ryou sank into the bed, struggling to catch his breath, white thighs quivering around bronze hips. Malik's heart hitched, the sensation lodging in his throat. He didn't know exactly what it was, but decided to let the question in his mind go, rolling over to lay next to Ryou.
Ryou had other plans, pulling Malik back to his chest, a smile on his face. "No. I want to cuddle."
Malik snorted. "We can. I just wanted to give you some air to breathe."
"That's not how you cuddle, idiot." Ryou teased, his arms wrapping around Malik's shoulders. He felt his fingers brush against his back and Malik found he didn't mind. If he were to entrust his body to anyone, scars and all, it would be Ryou. He couldn't think of anyone else he was comfortable sharing this with, nor anyone he would desire for this moment.
No, Ryou burned in his thoughts, like a white star guiding him through the night.
Malik chuckled, starting to understand the sensation that clogged in his throat yet he couldn't give words to. Instead, he rolled over, pulling Ryou with him. He could hear him start to protest until he realized that Malik only wanted to switch positions. Ryou settled into his chest, his white hair scattering and mixing in with his golden hair. Malik held onto Ryou, the two of them falling into a hard sleep in seconds.
Malik was fairly certain it was his mind playing tricks on him but he believed that sex before sleeping made him sleep that much better.
Even though they'd only gotten a few hours rest, Malik felt more invigorated after their quick romp and nap. He helped Ryou get ready, teasing his short hair for as long as he could before Ryou had to throw on a wig. It was astounding how such a disgusting color muddied his beautiful dark eyes. Only Ryou could do his white hair justice, making every one of his features meld perfectly and just dazzle the beholder.
Strange how a dress and wig could do so much to change one's appearance. With the wig, Ryou became unrecognizable, blending with the crowd. Mai had really outdone herself on this costume. Ryou's disguise was convincing and it certainly got the job done.
Though Malik felt uncomfortable about the fake breasts…
The moment they stepped out the door, their guises returned. Ryou the odd yet sharp detective on the job, Malik his assistant working with the police force. Their relationship appeared amicable yet professional, a careful line not to be crossed lest they wished to face trial or imprisonment.
Yet as Malik sat near the window, watching the dark streets, his mind lingered on their time together. He brushed his fingers against his lips, the feel of Ryou's lips against his still fresh. Even when they were apart, Malik found his thoughts drifting back to Ryou. His beautiful hair, his unblemished skin, his rosy cheeks when he was aroused, the soft squeeze as their bodies wrapped together…
Malik shut his eyes, trying to clear his thoughts. He shifted in his seat, fighting the erection that was starting to form. He needed to keep his mind on the job. He couldn't be fantasizing right now. Despite how alluring the image of Ryou riding him...
Malik wondered how good Ryou's cock would feel inside him.
Malik tapped his forehead against the cold glass. He needed to stop. He was more tired and sexually pent-up than he realized. He knew solving the case would solve his lack of sleep. Ryou was the solution to his other problem - after all, he's the one who seemed to have awakened the ravenous desire in him.
Malik bit back a groan, focusing on the cold touch that spread a numbness through his skull. His eyes fluttered open. As if on cue, Ryou passed the checkpoint. Malik glanced back over to the clock in the room, noticing he was on time. Ryou was making laps, wandering to those unaware but a carefully mapped out area that allowed the police to observe his every move. If he should deviate from that plan, it was time to act.
Malik leaned over to the desk, marking off another tally. He knew that the murderer's lack of appearance was problematic, but a part of him was relieved in a way. He knew the killer would act, so for every moment Ryou continued in safety, the less Malik had to worry. Their plan was carefully organized, not allowing for any error. Jack the Ripper would not get away.
So long as Isis and Ryou were safe in the end, that was all that mattered
A noise downstairs caught his ear. Malik turned his head, a few officers wandering upstairs, sleepiness evident on their faces. They had been taking turns on watch, though Malik offered to do the longest shift. The idea of Ryou being attacked by the killer while he slept didn't sit well with him. He wouldn't let another person he loved slip away from him.
The officers ignored Malik, having figured out in the first few days that he wasn't interested in cards or drinking. Malik threatened to report them to Kaiba if they got as wasted as they did the first night. They seemed to regard him with distrust and disdain but Malik didn't give any fucks. He tried to tune out their conversation.
"How many nights do we have to do this?" He heard one of them complain, the tiredness evident in his voice.
"Til we catch the killer or Kaiba realizes this is a stupid as hell decision." One of the officers groaned, a bitter note in his voice.
"The detective says he should be planning his next murder here."
"He's also been on this case for months and the murderer keeps getting away. I wouldn't hold your breath."
Malik bit back a remark, knowing it wouldn't accomplish anything. These men were tired and irritated, hence why they were lashing out.
"I don't care what Kaiba says – I think the detective's behind it all. It's the perfect cover – hunt down the killer while moonlighting as the bastard-"
And there went any chance of Malik ignoring their conversation.
"Fucking what?" He snapped, growling out the words.
The officers jumped, almost surprised by his vocal interjection. The officer who last spoke (Malik thought his name was Keith but he wasn't sure), stood up straight, doubling down on his assertion; "You heard me. Why hasn't he caught him sooner? The best plan to catch him is to dress in drag and hope he takes the bait? How do we know this isn't some excuse for him to shag with some queer-"
And there went any chance of Malik keep his temper tonight.
His body moved faster than he could think, bolting up from his seat. It didn't matter that Keith had several inches on him – Malik, fueled by rage, had the advantage that the officer didn't anticipate an attack. In a moment of blind rage, Malik clocked Keith across the jaw hard, the blond man collapsing suddenly. Malik's anger wasn't spent; instead, he raced to beat the crap out of the officer.
He was pulled away by two of the officers who realized what he was doing and had enough sense to keep him from getting himself arrested. Malik struggled against them, resisting restraint as the desire to kick Keith's face in for his remarks was preferable. He didn't give two shits if they were bored – how dare they accuse Ryou of being some perverted criminal.
Keith staggered back to his feet, his eyes livid. Malik wanted a fight, but he also knew that getting in trouble now would force Kaiba to remove him from helping on the case. This wasn't as simple as just helping out Ryou where he could – he actually had to fall in line. Malik shrugged off the two officers, trying to temper back his anger and frustration.
Malik took a deep breath, gathering himself. "If you think you can do a better job catching this criminal, than why don't you take on the case, jackass? Or perhaps you don't have enough brain cells to figure it out, you lazy son of a bitch?"
So this wasn't his best attempt at controlling his temper. Oh fucking well. Keith's face burned red despite the purple bruise swelling across the left side of his face. Perhaps Malik would get his fight in tonight.
Before either one could throw another punch, an officer stepped between them. Malik blinked, recognizing him as the one named Duke. "Enough. We're on the clock, Keith. Everyone shut their mouths and we should be good."
Malik felt frustrated, annoyed at being placated. But as he saw the other officers starting to relax, Malik realized that it was pointless staying angry over basically nothing. He couldn't change these officers' opinion on Ryou – they were suspicious about the detective. He suspected this was related to Kaiba's own suspicions towards him as well.
As much as Malik wanted to beat sense into them, it would accomplish nothing. Ryou had mentioned that it was more important to just do his job than worry about what his fellow coworkers whispered and gossiped about. Malik suspected he was right, but that didn't piss him off any less.
Malik sighed, watching out the window. He could hear the officers grumbling, but they became white noise again. It was more important that Malik do his part and just focus on catching the killer. He glanced up at the clock, noticing it was a few minutes past 12:30. He looked back at the road. Ryou hadn't passed by yet.
A frown grew on his face, his heart rate picking up. It was possible that Ryou was just running a bit late, but every instinct told Malik that wasn't the case. He stepped back, realizing that every second counted.
"He's off pattern," Malik stated the fact, trying to remain calm. His heart rate was already up from the fight earlier – he needed to keep calm.
The officers got quiet, standing up. Duke ran to the window, looking out. "How many minutes?"
"Four minutes now."
"… Shit, it's time," Duke muttered, turning back around. "Keith, report to Fordham Street. Ushio – Lomas. The rest move to the flat. Go!"
Without another word, the men filed out, rushing to inform the other officers and to move in. Malik followed closely after Duke, his breath shaky. This was it. It was do or die.
Time to see if their trap would actually work.
