I've actually finished he Epilogue for this story!
Frappucinos, Hot Chocolate, and Chipotle does wonders!
And it only took me two years to figure out the recipe...
It was a rarity that Mai, Téa, Joey and Tristan got together for a home cooked dinner. Joey and Tristan figured something had to be up. So far the evening had gone by smoothly without any weird questions being asked or those awkward glances when you knew something was going on.
"So Joey…" Mai started glancing at Téa. "…About Kaiba…"
"Really guys?" Joey dropped his fork loudly, looking around the table.
"Just making conversation, babe. I just wanted to know how things were-"
"There are no things between me and him okay? There aren't any things between him and anybody else. As Tristan said…he's only capable of fuck buddies. And I…under idiotic circumstances, which are all my fault, have fallen into the black abyss of Seto's fuck list."
"I think you need to talk to him. He's a little bad with emotion and you know this Joey," Téa suggested.
"No way in hell. I'm not going to lay it out there on the line again for me to be crushed. It's happened before…I won't make that same mistake."
"Mako was bisexual, whereas the thought of vag to Seto, makes him want to-" Tristan was interrupted.
"Okay, can we try to keep the talk of anatomy parts down to a minimum? Especially while we're eating. I swear, I talk more about dicks and vaginas among you guys, then in my classes." Joey tried to go back to eating, but after an attempt he thought about something else. "Is that why we're getting a four course meal?"
"No…" Téa glanced at Mai. "Me and Mai wanted to know you're opinion about having a baby."
Joey and Tristan looked at each other before Tristan burst out in tears of laughter.
"Like a real baby?" Joey asked.
Mai gave him an "Are you serious?" look before nodding. "Yes, you idiot. Me and Téa believe that we would be mature responsible parents that are more than financially and emotionally prepared to have a child-Tristan would you shut up?!"
"When did you guys plan on trying? And whose going to have the baby?"
"Well since Mai is the money maker, I figured I would have the baby. Lucy, my manager the theater, said that she would be more than welcome to take over the classes while I went out for a couple of months," Tea explained.
"I'm not saying that it's wrong for you two to have children, I am only asking, are you two ready?"
"Its been years since we have been dating, and I just think it's time that we start moving ahead in our lives with the second most important thing on our lists."
"What was the first?" Tristan asked.
"Marriage," Mai said holding up her hand where a dainty solitaire diamond ring was displayed on her ring finger.
"So that's why were conned into dinner?!" Tristan feigned anger, slamming his fist down dramatically, before a large smile took over his face.
"Congratulations," Joey said, walking around the table giving them a hug.
"Thank you, we wanted to tell you guys first. We were hoping that Duke would have been able to make it-"
"You invited him?" Tristan asked.
"Yeah, but he told us he wouldn't be able to come because he had some important business this evening."
Joey looked at Tristan and now they definitely knew something wasn't right.
"Is something wrong with him?" Téa asked concerned, looking between Joey and Tristan. Joey shook his head, giving them a reassuring smile.
"I'm sure he's okay. We will stop by his house later to let him know you guys have some good news to tell him. Maybe that will get him to visit." Joey gave another kiss to Mai's temple.
They had finished baby talk and wedding colors amongst the table until time reached nine o'clock, and Joey moved to began helping to clean up. He had took the dishes into the kitchen, beginning to wash when Mai walked into the room, wrapping her arms around his waist and placing her head on his back.
Hey..." Mai said with a small smile. "I love you Joey. You know that."
"I love you too." He wrapped his arms around Mai, placing a small kiss on her forehead. "I'm so happy for you and I'm wishing and hoping you and Téa the best. I know that she has been talking about this baby business for a long time...and I know you wouldn't look good eighty pounds heavier."
"That is so mean!" She pulled away, playfully smacking him. "I will have you know that I think I would still amazing eighty pounds heavier. I just think you're just sad that you won't get the chance to impregnate me."
"By gods, you're going to make me choke. Now let me get back to-"
"No. You're not going to wash these dishes." Mai stopped him from turning to the sink. "I do need you to do me a huge favor though, and take Tristan and check on Duke. I don't want to believe that it may be something bad, but I want him to be okay. He didn't sound himself when we were on the phone together."
"You're just paranoid. According to him, everything is okay."
Who was he kidding? He was just as worried as Mai was. Especially when she had said at the dinner table that Duke said he couldn't come over. This Cale guy, seemed to have a real effect on Duke and it was worrying the hell out everyone.
"Have you met this guy?" Mai asked.
"I met him, but the night that Duke brought him over, "casanova" in the other room, ruined dinner. Probably scared the guy to death."
"Yeah." Mai rolled her eyes. "That idiot told me about that. I wanted to beat the living shit out of him after he told me. I was so embarrassed for Duke. I've tried to tell Tristan about himself. He doesn't realize that some of the things he says or does, really hurts people."
"You should have saved your breath. That's what he based his reputation on. He's like another Kaiba; just a little more friendly...and…well I think that's about it."
"Hey…" Mai said softly, catching Joey's attention. "I know that you like Kaiba and I know that he likes you." Joey opened his mouth to interrupt, but Mai shook her head. "Let me finish. Not a lot of people can convince Seto Kaiba to do a lot of things, I've seen it, but Joey, it seems that you're different. There's something about you that has attracted you to him. He can't let go. I think you know what to do, but the both of you are just afraid."
"What are you trying to tell me Mai? I'm not in love with the guy or anything like that. Besides, I think I'm trying to catch bigger fish that are out of my league. This guy in my psych class is going to try to set me up with his cousin. Maybe something might happen."
"Don't give up on him, Joey. He just needs a little more convincing."
"You only know the half of it and I really don't want to get into details about it. But it's not me. It's him. There are a lot of things that I have tried, but I am tired, Mai. I don't want to fight him forever for just a date. That to me is futile."
Mai frowned. "You're right, babe. I don't know about everything that goes on, but I know the Joey Wheeler I know wouldn't give up on what he wanted." She leaned forward pressing a quick kiss to his lips. "Thanks for coming over."
He knew that Mai meant well, but as he said earlier, she didn't know everything about what was going on. She was only seeing it from one side, and she was trying to be hopeful for them. Seto had more than got his point across that he was not interested in anyone beyond the point of sex.
"Jojo?"
Joey and Mai turned to Tristan in the doorway.
"Ready to head home?"
"Yeah, sure. Uh…could we make a stop? We should probably check on Duke."
"Yeah, no problem."
When they arrived at Cale's house, they knocked on the door hoping that he would be the one to answer. Duke did open the door, looking sullen at seeing the faces of both Tristan and Joey on the other side.
"What's wrong babe? Not happy to see us?" Tristan asked.
"No, its fine. I just wish you had called first to let me know you were coming over."
"You look like shit."
And in fact, Duke's vibrant, sensual, constant sexy look had gone flat. No eyeliner adorned the bright eyes, but was only replaced with a dead look; both with sadness and pain.
"Uh, guys, you should probably-"
It took Tristan to knock back the door pushing a weak Duke back as he walked into the house on his own permission.
"You're freakin' incredible, Tristan," Duke said as he glared at Tristan. "You two think you can just walk in here-"
"Mai and Téa told us that they invited you tonight for dinner and you turned them down," Joey started. "Not everyday we get to sit down and have some quality time together, considering our hectic schedules have gotten the better of us since high school. But I know you of all people and you wouldn't have turned down a dinner date, so we want to know what the hell is going on. And it seems you won't be civil enough to us so instead we are forced to be resulted to such low measures."
"That's not true."
"Yeah, because you've done so well so far of at least acknowledging us," Tristan stated sarcastically.
"Look, you two ganging up on me, doesn't make me feel any better."
"We're not ganging up on you. We're concerned."
"-He's fine."
Before they knew it, said doctor Cale walked into the room, with a glass of red wine in hand, his eyes roaming over Tristan and Joey before turning back to Duke.
"Honey, you didn't inform me that we were having guests tonight," Cale looked on as smug as ever.
"We're not. They were just leaving-"
"The hell we were!" Tristan blurted out, shutting down Duke quickly.
"I think you should let them stay," Cale spoke, his voice dripping with a nasty niceness.
"We came to talk to Duke and Duke alone, so can you please give us some privacy." Joey could see Tristan getting irritated, his jaw clenching as he spoke.
"Tris-" Joey started to grab his arm and pull him towards the door.
"No! I want this asshole to leave the room or we're taking Duke and he can't do a damn thing about it!"
"Stop it! You don't have to talk to him like that." Duke defended.
"Since when did you take another guy's side over ours?! We've been there longer for you than this asshole and you're stuck more to his side than ours."
"That's not true. I just know when a person is right and when they're wrong. Your attitude right now Tristan, is not necessary neither is it-"
Before he could finish, Tristan grabbed Duke by the back of his neck before pressing his lips against the other. Everyone in the room stood there in shock, including Duke, whose lips went numb and showed no response to Tristan as they stood there in the middle of the brightly lit foyer. A few seconds later, the tall brunet released Duke, standing back just a bit.
"We care for you more than you could possibly know."
And with that, he left the house. Joey didn't know what to say. He looked at Duke long and hard trying to read the other. He wanted him to know the same thing, he just didn't want to have to make out with him for him to figure it out. But Duke was in such a trance, he just stared at the shining pecan colored hardwood floor. So, Joey backed out of the house, not bothering to shut the door behind himself as he walked to the car and into the driver's seat. He started the car up immediately driving home.
"What the hell was that?" Joey shouted.
"It was the first thing that came to my mind that I thought he would actually understand."
"Yeah, because sticking your tongue down his throat has worked in the past. Why can't you be like a normal human being Tristan? Why can't you talk and have a decent conversation with someone, without feeling them up or lip locking?
"I was sexualized at too early an age. My brain doesn't understand what lines not to cross because my dick is always there to interrupt. I don't know Joey! I love and care about Duke a lot more than I think I should and I want him back with us just as much as you do!"
"What?! Where did this come from?!"
"It came from the moment when he came to the house that day with the black eye. I couldn't do anything! I froze! He was sitting there crying and I didn't know what to say, so I called you. And you went off on him. He's scared, Joey and I just don't know how to get him out of that situation."
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"Because that's always easy for me to do." Tristan scoffed. "It's one thing for me to say, "Joey, let's just fuck", but to tell Duke something more-"
Joey reached over and slapped Tristan in the arm. "What are you trying to say? Am I just easy booty?!"
"We already established that as best buds, there's no way in hell we should do anything besides screw each other. Remember when I said I didn't want to have sex with Duke to began with. It's because he deserves so much more-"
"And look what he got? Some asshole whose probably beating on him as we speak."
"He stays with that asshole because he thinks we don't care. After dinner that I ruined, he was devastated. He told me, that if I cared enough about him, I wouldn't have done such a thing and I would have been your date for that night instead of Kaiba. I've feel like I need to grow up Joey, I just don't know where to start."
"Long story short…" Joey glanced at the other quickly before looking back at the road. "If Duke doesn't realize that the kiss meant more than it was, than it's a lost cause of showing how much, you really do feel for him."
The rode in silence the entire way home.
Joey didn't ever think he would ever hear Tristan talking like this. He had always known the other to be reclusive about deep feelings. He loved Tristan, but the other could be such an idiot sometimes and that was saying something considering he wasn't really anymore smarter. But who could really blame him? Dealing with the topic of love was very tough. Joey himself wasn't an expert and new experiences were hitting him all the same as they were Tristan.
He was having feelings for someone who didn't return it. Joey had just realize that rather than holding on waiting for something to happen, he needed to take charge. He needed to tell Seto how he really felt.
"You should take up my offer that I brought up the night we were first together. We should be fuck buddies." He said as he stood in front of Kaiba's desk at work the day after.
"Excuse me?"
"Friends with benefits."
Well it wasn't a total lie. Sex with Seto was amazing and he always caught himself thinking about more it, aside from the relationship issue. He knew he wouldn't get anything else, so this could at least be the perfect opportunity to get at least something.
"Okay, what about the blow up at the house the other day?" Seto face said so much, but it was evident he was confused as hell. "You pretty much said that I was piece of shit; scum of the ground you walk on."
"Look, I've had sometime to think about what I said and I apologize. But listen: you and I both think each other are amazing in bed and yes, I know that you don't want anything more than that. We see other people and as soon as I find someone that I want to be with, we'll end it. Contract: null and void."
"Sooo…you want to use me temporarily until you find someone of permanent status?"
"Like you, only the latter doesn't technically apply to you."
"No strings attached?"
"Not a single one."
Stumbling through the doorway, Joey nearly lost his footing as heavy kisses descended down his neck. Seto had wasted no time in dragging the blond to his home and ravishing him at the entrance. But Joey didn't mind, his moans ringing through the vast and empty house. His back hit the edge of a foyer table, which he half sat on and forced Seto's blazer from his shoulders.
"You weren't this horny…at the office…" Joey said.
"I'm a gentleman…I know how to conserve myself," Seto said between kisses that made their way up to Joey's lips, biting his lower lip as he tossed his jacket to a corner.
"When was the last time you had sex?" Joey unbuttoned the crisp baby blue button up.
"I don't know Joey. If I feel like calculating it later, I'll let you know. Right now…you should just…help me out here."
Joey grabbed the back of his neck, pulling him into a rough kiss as he stood up from the table, tossing the shirt somewhere with the jacket. He swung Seto around, pinning him to the wall, kissing down the well defined chest, taking a nipple between his teeth. He could feel Seto undoing his slacks, readying Joey for what he wanted.
Joey dropped to his knees, pulling Seto from cover and wrapping his lips around the length. He could hear Seto groaning loudly and fingers gripped his hair and Seto's slick cock was slipping deeper and deeper to the back of his throat. After a few thrusts, he could feel the hot liquid filling his mouth.
"Fuck!" Seto grunted, pulling out of the warmth of Joey's mouth. He panted slightly against the wall, Joey sliding up, grinning madly.
Joey didn't say anything as he gave Seto a quick kiss on the lips. Short kisses peppered their way along chin, jaw, lips again while Joey took him in hand, stroking him until he was hard again. As soon as Seto was, he pushed Joey back to the foyer table undressing Joey completely.
"Well, you recover quick."
"Of course. Who am I?" He stared into Joey's eyes, who stared longingly, before parting his lips and whispering his name.
Seto snatched one of the drawers of the table Joey sat on and threw it to the floor when he found what he was looking for. When he was ready, he slid slowly inside of Joey, his hand planting themselves on either side of the Joey's head on the wall.
"Say it again…say my name Joey."
"Seto…" Joey moaned before the other was settled deep inside of him.
"Fuck, Joey…" He pulled out, thrusting in hitting his spot dead on. Joey cried out, his hand swiping at a bowl, which fell to the floor shattering. "Forget about it…" Seto said as he moved faster, the table hitting the wall, chipping some of the paint.
Joey bit his bottom lip, his body feeling like it was on fire. The way Seto grabbed his leg, lifting just so he could hit him from a better angle was amazing. His toes curled; he could feel himself about to come and he was sure Seto was close again from the ragged breathing.
"I'm going to come…" He groaned loudly releasing against him and Seto's chest just as Seto came. They had no time to catch their breath before the front door was open and Mokuba walked through.
"Seto!" He covered his eyes quickly. "I'm so sorry!"
"Mokuba! You're not due home for another hour!" Seto grabbed his pants, yanking them on.
"I was making a quick stop to pick up some things before I went out." With his eyes still covered, Mokuba went in search of the stairs. "I really am sorry! Hey Joey…"
"Hey kiddo." He chuckled going in search of his own clothes. Seto didn't bother to pick up his jacket or shirt, walking into the kitchen. Joey knew this is where it ended, and he walked in behind Seto. He cleared his throat. "Going to head out…"
"No drink?"
Truth be told, Joey didn't know what he was doing right now. He had went into Seto's office with the confidence of telling him how he felt, but he chickened out knowing what the other would say. So he suggested something he could live with. At least this way, he could still have the other in some strange way or another. He had never been in this kind of arrangement and he knew that in the end, he would probably regret it. He would just get to that point when it came.
He took the offered drink, taking a sip, feeling more awkward than ever.
"You wanna tell me what's up? Why the sudden proposition?" Seto asked.
"Horny…" He lied, quickly.
Seto snorted. "Good one. I just don't want you to get all weird on me."
"Yeah right. I think we're pass that. Not everyone is a eligible candidate down at the club."
"Mmm…if you stop hanging around Taylor you might actually attract some one, and not have him repel everyone."
"You know, I don't think you know how much you and him are alike."
"Me and Taylor alike? Please. He's just a mere imitation."
"Mmm…" was all Joey could make out before he downed the rest of harsh drink as quickly as possible and made his way to the door, calling out a big thanks to Seto, who didn't seem to mind his sudden haste in leaving.
Joey knew that he had to get out of there because being in the presence of the other, made him want to jump him again. Leaving the house, Joey felt unsatisfied. Even though he had gotten a piece of what he wanted, Joey still felt empty. He had just wanted to talk to someone where he would be able to get away from his problems.
Entering into the apartment, he came in calling for Tristan when a shift from the sofa caught his attention. Duke stood up from his seat, now staring at him.
"Hey," Duke said softly.
"Hey…"
Joey didn't know what to say. It had been a couple of days since he had saw Duke, and they had had that "Days of our lives" soap opera encounter at Cale's house. Duke looked somber-different.
"Tris went to get dinner."
"Oh…"
Now he didn't know what to do. It had been weeks since he had seen the other. Duke had been so in love. He, no doubt, missed the other a lot. Duke had always been the one he could go to get some sympathy, and a soothing hug without the occasional grope, like Tristan would do. But now, seeing him after everything that went on, Duke had put another before their friendship. He treated Tristan and him like strangers. If he was in difficult situation, he should have known that the two people that would have been there for him before anyone, would have been them.
"I was an asshole-"
"Go on then."
Duke took in a deep breath before releasing it. "But I realize that there are some people there for me, for me. Being without you or Tristan made me realize, I'd never take the friendship I have for you two, for granted. I was blinded by superficial love, babe. I didn't know any better. It was just that it was something new.
Joey walked over to Duke, after dropping his books to the floor and stood in front of the other. "In all seriousness…" Joey then smiled widely. "Welcome back, Duke."
He wrapped his arms around Duke in a tight hug. How good if felt to be able to hold his drama queen again. "Now…I should beat the shit out of you."
"Just tell Tristan, I deserve a spank." Duke grinned. Joey pulled back.
"I would not be surprised if he actually fulfilled that request. That kiss…"
"That kiss, was one of the best things I've ever had before."
"Go figure you would like that cheesy, cliché, "come back to us" kiss. He's a lose on words. Leave it to him to give it some sitcom flavor."
"What can I say, I'm a guy who appreciates a little surprise here or there."
"Well here's a surprise…rent is due on the 15th. I've been pulling doubles at the café for a week now; I've got fucking coffee spilling out of my ears."
"Why didn't you guys get another roommate?"
"Tried that one, but after they saw the house and Tristan screwed them, they didn't want anymore to do with us."
"Gods, I missed you guys." Duke smiled, pressing his lips to Joey's in a chaste kiss, pulling back.
"We missed you too."
Having Duke back at the apartment made Joey's week. Just being able to come home and have the other's presence there made him feel better. He could tell that Duke was glad to be back as well. He didn't mention much about his stay with Cale, except that he refused to ever go back to the other, no matter what the other would say. Duke was more than appreciative that Joey and Tristan allowed him back with open arms despite what happened, and it seemed that everything went back to normal.
Even the evenings back at Euphoria, where Duke's sudden presence was praised more than when Kaiba walked in the door. Duke's fan base was just as large as the brunet's and they were kissing up to him like some ancient queen.
And Duke ran with it, being a queen who loved all the attention.
"Sorry Tris, I guess this means that now that Duke is back-" Ryou started, but Tristan shook his head.
"Hey, I'm pretty sure I've had just about anything on two feet that has ever walked in here. Duke missed out so he's just getting acquainted with what I already had." Tristan eyed Ryou up and down with a slight creepy drunken smile, making the smaller one roll his eyes.
"-Who revived eye candy?" Said a sudden voice entering the conversation. Everyone looked to see Seto leaning on the bar beside Joey.
"My left ball, now go and play somewhere." Tristan hiccupped slightly, taking another sip.
"Lay off, Tris." Joey decided to take Tristan's drink from his hands. The other had had way too many beers for one night; his speech becoming more slurred by the minute. "Besides, I think you've had one to many."
"No, I haven't even gotten laid yet. We'll speak then." Tristan walked off.
"He's not too fond of Duke's fan club," Joey told Seto.
"Well, he shouldn't let his repressed feelings for Duke get his panties in a bunch. Some people just want to talk like civil human beings. Ryou, the usual." Seto looked to Joey. "How long have you been here?"
"An hour or so. Duke insisted. I'm not too much in the mood."
"Wanna go somewhere to talk? I mean…somewhere outside of here."
Joey eyed him suspiciously. "Isn't that what got us in trouble the first time?"
Seto chuckled. "I'll take a brief moment from that for a bit. Let's just talk…"
This had to be something serious for the other male in front of him, just want to talk. He decided that if the other was willing to just settle for something simple, they should go somewhere a little more quieter. They ended up at his parent's café, which was exceptionally quiet since most people were out and about until 2. His mother fixed them some food on the house, and with some left over ingredients, she improvised a special winter flavored latte for Seto.
"What do you think, Sweetheart?" She asked Seto. "Do I know how to whip or do I know how to whip it?!"
She did a little shimmy of a dance, making Joey shake his head and shoo her away from the table as soon as possible.
"Ah no, Jojo. Cutie here is going to tell how my special cocoa winterland mint latte is before I put it up on the menu. With Christmas in two weeks, I figured I'd do something special."
"So you made him the guinea pig?"
"Well, he liked the spice pumpkin, I thought he'd like to try this one, on the house."
"Yes, Joey. Your mother was thinking about me like I'm someone special. Let me bask in it."
"Bask away."
Joey watched Seto wipe the coffee from his upper lip that made a little mustache, with a napkin. It was small things like this, that got Joey going. They wouldn't have to try so hard for, but to just be themselves for him. Why couldn't he find someone willing to at least do that?
"Wow…that's amazing."
"Of course it is, honey. Whenever your finished, I'll be coming for you again." Mrs. Wheeler winked as she ruffled Joey's hair and sauntered off behind the counter.
"You have to excuse her. She can be a little eccentric sometimes."
Seto gave a heavy sigh. "I don't think you realize how good you have it Joey. Whether eccentric or normal, at least you have a mother."
Silence filled between them, as Joey took an awkward bite of his food to fill the void. He didn't know whether to bring up the conversation that he once had with the other when Seto had taken too much…stuff. He knew the other would have never let him hear such a thing in a million years. He cleared his throat, trying to change the subject.
"How's kiddo by the way? He still holding up?"
"Since Serenity broke his poor little heart? He's fantastic." Seto laughed. "This girl he has, she's…well to put it blunt, she's an idiot. She stays with Mokuba, because he's my brother and he stays with her because he knows its easy ass."
"My, aren't you two one in the same."
"Yeah, but it's not something I want my brother doing. He knows how I feel about him using women. Especially after the whole situation with Serenity. I told him he's going through some post traumatic stress coping mechanism…or something of that nature."
"He sees big brother being a little slut puppy, he figures he can do the same and get away with it."
"He can get away with it, my issue is, he should not try to. And trust and believe me, my brother is old enough to know what is right and what is wrong and he knows it is something he does not want to do. He does it because its what's making him feel good right now."
"Serenity just needs a reality check, which she's going to get sooner or later being with Justin. She's too much for him to handle."
"Oh, you remember how it was at that age."
"When I was around her age Kaiba, I'll have you know, I was not flashing my cock to every chick begging for it. Besides, we had just got out of high school and I was going through card game withdrawal. I see some of us still enjoy them though-"
"I'll have you know, I make billions off of it."
"You don't have to tell me. I think between the millions of newspaper and magazine articles and flashy billboards, we know you're a success."
"Mmm…" Seto mumbled.
"You'd think we'd hear something about little Kaiba babies running around about now. Some little egotistical children that I'll be able to babysit and play uncle to." Joey laughed with Seto joining in.
"Who says you'd even come close to them? I think I'll leave that to the nanny. Besides, won't you be too busy playing uncle Joey to Mai? Hear her and Téa are trying."
"Yeah. Isn't it amazing how some people plan their lives after high school. We've all grown up so much."
"Some of us more than others…" Seto murmured.
"You're one to talk. I don't think any of your juvenile club antics qualify you for any age over twenty."
"We were all so sheltered in high school."
"Some of us more than others…" Joey mumbled in a mocking voice.
"Okay, so you and your geek circle had orgies-"
"You were invited to some of them if I recall-"
"I ended up going to Devlin's graduation party."
"Oh dear gods! Of all things that you remember, you would remember that. That was not a pretty sight the next morning. I had the worse hangover ever."
"Yeah, try waking up with Taylor's face in my crotch, with nothing but his boxers on. Its no wonder I'm not scarred for life."
"Try living with him. That happens much too often even now."
Joey needed this. To be able to sit and just talk was becoming some good medicine. And with Seto nonetheless. It was really showing another side to the other as it had done that night when Duke had Cale over for dinner. It also showed Joey just how comfortable Seto was with him. He highly doubt the other had done this with anyone else since Seto was more of a private person.
"-Well, I see you two enjoyed yourselves, because I enjoyed watching you two. Too cute." Mrs. Wheeler said with a wide smile. "Going to get some now?" She elbowed Joey in the arm, who growled.
"No mother. We're going home…in separate beds…and sleeping. Besides, I have to open here."
"Sucks for you Jojo. Seto, here," She handed him a tray and a cup. "I made some more of that coffee special for you and those are some of raspberry pecan muffins which I know you'll like."
"Thank you," he said politely, standing up from his seat along with Joey. "I appreciate this."
"Oh, no problem, sweetheart. You two be safe getting home."
The car ride home was filled with casually conversation as they had inside the café until Seto pulled up to the front of Joey's apartment.
"Not up for "after latte" affairs?" Seto asked.
"Funny. You need some rest. Seems like you have a busy day tomorrow. We'll play catch up when the both of us won't be busy."
"What are you doing for Christmas?" Joey asked and Seto shrugged. "Well, if you find yourself needing some company Christmas Eve, you should come over. Me and the guys aren't doing anything, but some cliché porn bashing and white wine."
"What?"
"We drink wine while making fun of corny porn movies. I don't know…we find it quite funny."
"Are you serious?"
"As serious can get. Something Tristan started when he had crappy Christmas one year."
"If I have absolutely nothing else to do, which I probably will have something to do…I'll entertain you three. Get out of my car, Wheeler."
"Alright, alright. No goodnight kiss?"
"Out!"
Joey chuckled, hopping out of the car and shutting the door behind him making his way up to his apartment. Entering, he tuned out the loud groans from the other room and collapsed himself on his messy bed and passed out.
"So, if could have one thing for Christmas, what would it be?" Joey asked around the table, particularly Seto who was sitting across the booth leaning against the wall with his knee propped up.
The other had decided to take a lunch break over at the café Joey worked at. As soon as he took his seat, Mrs. Wheeler was at his service at once, grinning and smirking widely holding a plate of freshly baked pastries and coffee. Soon enough Duke and Tristan had joined him and Joey took an early lunch to chat about nothing in particular.
"When I was a younger, there used to be this action figure called the Action Commander, Tristan said. "Man, he could do everything. He had his own freaking fighter jet called Shark Bait. They even had Action Commander in space. My parents refused to get him for me. I don't know whether it was because they thought he was too violent, or just didn't give a shit to my Christmas list."
"Taylor, you want a doll for Christmas?" Seto asked and the rest of the table laughed.
"Did I say doll, asshole? I said action figure." Tristan rolled his eyes. "Prick…"
"Well," Duke began. "When I was ten, I remember seeing the commercial for planting kit. It would have been my own personal sunflower, but you know how parents would feel if their sons want sunflowers; Not exactly Action Commander."
"You people are weird," Seto commented taking a sip of his coffee.
"What did you want?!" Tristan asked.
"Everything I want I already have. Besides…when I was younger, toys weren't important."
Joey's mind reeled back to the story Seto had told him about his stepfather. He frowned slightly, leaning back in his seat.
"Not one single thing?" Joey pressed. "Doesn't have to be toy.
Seto looked at his watch and smacked Tristan in the shoulder indicating to him to get up. He grabbed his leather bound portfolio from the table and snatched up his coffee.
"It's time for me to be getting back before my conference meeting. Joey, can I speak to you."
Joey got up from his seat and walked with Seto outside where they stood in front of the café. "Make it quick, Kaiba. It's like ten fucking degrees out here," he said shivering as he crossed his arms.
"I'll be heading out of town and won't be back until about Christmas evening. I know Mokuba tells me he'll be okay and that he's fine with me leaving, but he's not one for telling me the truth when it comes to me abandoning him for business. I just really need to seal this deal before this CEO leaves for Florida for Christmas. Can you just keep an eye on Mokuba?"
"Keep an eye on kiddo? And do what with him? Take him to the park?"
"Just make sure he's okay and not too alone."
"Okay, I guess. He's more than welcomed to come over my parent's house for dinner. Don't know how he feels about Serenity and Justin-"
"He'll probably bring his girlfriend. I just hate to leave him at such a time. I appreciate this, Joey."
"Yeah, no problem."
"Just no porn watching for him."
Joey chuckled. "Yeah sure. You going to be okay?"
"I'll be fine."
Joey knew something wasn't right as the other walked away from him. There was a disappointing vibe he was getting from the taller one as he spoke, especially after the conversation they had just finished sharing in the café. He didn't have time to dwell on it too much for the simple fact he was freezing his nuts off. He turned on his heel heading to the door when he bumped into a hard body.
"Sor…ry…" He trailed off his apology as he saw who stood before him. "Are you stalking me?"
"I'm trying to talk to you." The dark haired male said. Joey stared into the dark blue eyes cursing himself.
"Mako, I have your number. If I want to talk to you, I'll call you," Joey said reaching for the door handle, but the other grabbed his hand.
"Please, Joey. I really want to talk to you and explain everything that happened and try to get you to listen to how sorry I am for ever leaving-"
"Okay, fine. I'll call, but I'm freezing my balls off."
"I'll be waiting."
Joey snatched his hand away from Mako and walked inside, shaking as a chill traveled down his body from the sudden warmth. He walked passed Tristan and Duke without explanation and went into the back, rubbing his hands together.
"Jojo?" Mrs. Wheeler's voice was behind him.
"Yes?"
"Was that who I think it was?"
"Don't really want to talk about. I'm trying to get the feeling back in my body. Besides, you shouldn't be worried about it one way or another."
"You're starting to sound like your sister. You two are my children and if there is some prick trying to get my son back into his slimy hands, I need to say something."
"Who said I was going back to him? he just wants to talk! I think you're jumping the gun here just a bit."
"Jojo, I know you. You're very forgiving and the next thing you know, Mako will be back over the house for dinner."
"Speaking of which," he started to change the subject. "Mokuba is coming over and he's bringing some chick. Kiddo's going to be alone on Christmas eve."
Mrs. Wheeler frowned. "What is Seto going to be doing?"
"He's a busy man, Ma. He has shit he needs to deal with. He just asked me to watch over the little guy."
"Poor baby."
"I'm glad you decided to call me."
"Yeah, well, don't get too excited. You're definitely not let off the hook that easy. I just advise you start explaining why, before I end this quick. Why are you back?"
"Can I at least know how you have been? I missed you Joey. You don't know how much I wanted to pick up the phone for that past year and apologize for everything, but I didn't know how or if you would even pick up the phone. So I came back."
"I'm not answering your question until I get mine and because you wanted to give me some lame ass bull shit apology doesn't suffice."
There was a heavy sigh from the other side. "She wasn't mine. I devoted a life to some woman with a baby that was not mine and in the process...I lost you, Joey. I lost everything that could have been a future."
"Is that everything?"
"What are you going to do? Hang up on me? Joey, I'm pouring out my heart here trying to receive some type of empathy. What if this was you?"
"It would never be me because I know what team I play for! I would never have to worry about getting some broad knocked up and then leave the one I care about most. What you don't understand Mako, is that I would have tried with you if you had told me the truth, but you didn't. You lied to me and then left without the decency, to tell me what the hell was going on."
"I'm sorry, but it was hard for me to make that decision that day, Joey!"
"Why should I talk to you, Mako? Why should I give you the time of day ever again?"
"Because you still love me or we wouldn't be talking right now."
Damnit!
Why had Joey decided to answer the phone? At first it was just curiosity of what bullshit Mako would tried to feed him, but then he realized, he missed him. He missed the husky voice whispering sweet sentiments into his ear making him feel like the only person that mattered to the other. Was this why he seemed to be infatuated with Seto? Because since Mako, it seemed that he was the first person to have that connection with? Seeing Mako that day, was like seeing a ghost of a dead love one. He had had no connection with the other since he had left; he didn't even know if the other was alive. And he had thought about him. He had wished he was okay (health wise) and hoping he was miserable every time he thought about what he did to Joey.
"I love you, Joey."
Oh! How he had heard it a million times and loved it so much. And even still, that voice saying those little words, made him feel complete again.
"You're a prick and everyone is going to think I'm a fucking idiot for even considering talking to you."
"So is this it? I'm back in town for good, babe. We should make the best of it, you should show me what I missed."
"Yeah, okay. You should have been here."
"Well, What are you doing tomorrow?"
"Its Christmas Eve and you know how my mother usually has dinner."
"So am I invited to Mama Wheeler's big Christmas Eve feast?"
"You step foot on my doorstep and she'll kill you."
"I like a challenge. I'll see you at 6 then?"
"What? No! You're not-"
The only thing Joey heard was harsh sound of the dial tone ringing in his ears. He frowned, slamming the phone down. He didn't know what to do. Maybe Mako was kidding about coming over for dinner. He wouldn't do that to Joey and put him in a awfully awkward position. Not to mention his mother would flip out, and he was too afraid to know what curses she'd sling at him before knocking him over the head with the Christmas roast for him being so stupid. He was now in a predicament.
"Joey, would you please go help your sister set the table?"
Joey nodded, turning on his heel and walking into the dining area where Serenity was placing napkins on the table.
"What the hell is up with you, Jojo?" Serenity asked. "You've been walking around here like the crypt keeper?"
"Is it that obvious?" He asked, grabbing a knife from the pile.
"Well of course to me, Joey. I'm your sister. What's wrong?" She asked with genuine concern.
"What if there was someone back who broke my heart...and yet I find the forgiveness to give him another chance. Not necessarily date him, but talk...to him..."
Serenity's eyes widened. "You didn't?" She whispered. "He's not coming to dinner, is he? Ma-ma, would kill him-"
"I know! Why do you think I didn't invite him, but Serenity, I miss him. Everytime I see that picture-"
"Damn Tristan for taking that picture! You should have destroyed it after he left!"
"-Someone say my name?" Tristan grinned, walking into the dining room as door bell rang.
"Get off your own dick, Tristan." Serenity brushed past him as she walked to the door.
Tristan stared after her, licking his lips. "If I were straight..."
Joey tossed a fork at him, hitting him in the shoulder.
"Ow! Geez! A simple "shut the hell up" would have been okay! What has been with you since yesterday?"
"Nothing..."
He refused to tell Tristan. The other had seen him cry over his ex where the other had made it a promise to murder the other if he ever saw him.
Or maim...
It didn't matter. He didn't want to have to deal with the backlash he would receive from everyone. Serenity stormed into the dining room, demanding to speak to Joey and without him responding, she grabbed his wrist pulling him out of the room and up the stairs.
"You asshole!" She shouted when they entered her bedroom and she slammed the door shut.
"What?!"
"You invited him! You invited Mokuba and that..." Her excitement calmed and she tightened her lips, gritting out one word. "...thing."
"What did you want me to do, Serenity? His brother is gone on business and he has no one to spend Christmas with."
"Joooey," Serenity whined. "Why must you insist on being so considerate?" Then her lips stretched into a wide grin. "Or infatuated with said person's brother."
"Cut it out." Joey stood up. "I'm starving and before dinner is ruined," he said with the interruption of another bell and made his way to the bedroom door.
"Wow, bro. You really know how to make a girl feel good about herself."
"Ren, what do you want me to say to you? I told you not to break the kid's heart and you did for Justin, who apparently is bad in bed."
"Damn it, why does the truth have to hurt so bad? I thought I was doing the right thing, honestly Joey. Plus, I was so embarrassed. I thought someone like him, would think I'm a slut-"
"But you are, I mean, was..." He corrected himself and Serenity stood up, hitting him in the arm. "Ow! For someone so little you pack a punch!"
"And there's more where that came from, Joey if you keep picking on me. I'm coming to my brother for some gay advice and you're being an ass."
Serenity walked out of the room. With a heavy sigh, Joey walked out of the room following behind her and down the stairs where Tristan is standing there looking like he wanted to hit something.
"What?" Joey asked.
"I've been waiting forever to eat and your upstairs taking your sweet ass time. Can you hurry up?"
"I'm coming."
For a minute, Joey swore Mako had showed up and ruined everything. He released a giant breath of air before joining the rest of his family for dinner. He walked into the dining area, where ten more people had joined the table than before he left, yelling and carrying on about missed times and how Serenity was getting fat...big; and or the gaining of big breasts, which Joey's aunts had no shame in squeezing to make sure she hadn't stuffed them with tissues. How they would tell Joey had grown into tall, handsome young man and meet a nice girl, before they realized this futile for indeed Joey was gay.
Dinner went by smoothly, without any arguments, dislikes, tension; it was all so peaceful for once. Yet Joey's mind was boggled with thoughts about his situation. How could he tell his sister straight to her face how he felt, but couldn't do the same with Seto? Joey wasn't one who gave a flock about what people thought of him, so why did Seto's opinion matter? Why did he need to be reassured by the other that he was still somebody to be loved?
When Joey looked up, his sister was giving him a warm smile even though she sat in a very awkward position. She was placed between Mokuba, who was giving her side glances when she would talk to Tristan, and Tristan was to her left. Tristan couldn't help, but stare at her breasts when she would get up to grab a bowl of food. Duke was faring well, talking to a distant cousin of Joey's who decided to pop in for a bit and Mokuba's girlfriend, Charity, was having a pleasant conversation with his mother.
Amidst all the happiness, why did Joe want to find solitude? It just seemed he wasn't in the mood this year for the happy go jolly Christmas cheer. He wondered what Seto was doing. Was he feeling the same way as he stayed cooped up in some nice, lavish hotel luxury suite, holding some young business intern that he had picked up...
This was heading south and Joey head was trailing to wrong thoughts. Why did he have to be so hooked?
Dinner ended with Joey's family heading into the living room for embarrassing nostalgia. Joey decided this was a great time to have a breather and went into the kitchen to relax.
"Yo!" Tristan walked into the room, loudly. "What's up?" He asked Joey who shrugged his shoulders.
"Same ole, same ole."
"Sure..." Tristan pulled out a chair and sat directly in front of Joey, grabbing one of his hands. "So, you gonna tell me what's been bothering you, Jo?"
"No. You'd get upset."
"What? You cheated on me?" Tristan grinned. "Of all people, me babe? I trusted you-"
"Quit. I'm serious."
"I already know Joey. I saw him the other day talking to you." For once Tristan was serious. "As much as it made me angry, I stopped and thought about how you would feel if I actually killed him. Look, if you wanna talk to him and be friends, that's all up to you, but I can never look at that asshole the same again. My main concern is that, I know you, you'd go back to him in heartbeat because you're on this lonely kick and me and Duke's company doesn't seem to be enough-"
"That's not even-"
"I'm kidding! I only meant you want somebody to love you differently than they way me and Duke do. I understand that, but Joey...he'll do it again. He'll hurt you again and then I won't be able to stop myself from what I might do. That is why my only advice would be is to not establish another relationship with him."
"I never said I was going to do that."
"Baby, its all in your eyes what you truly want. I love you."
"Love you too...idiot."
They both laughed and Joey felt a little better.
"Now come on, we have some porn to watch. I've even conned Mokuba into joining us, which should give him a right scare since he's straight as an arrow."
"I don't know. Kaiba told me not to get the kid into that kind of-"
"The kid is eighteen years old! He needs some of this, graphic exposure in his life. And it seems you do as well. So come on Mr. Depressive pants and let's get you all hot and bothered."
"Attention! Position yourself men...appropriately..." Said the husky out of the speakers of the television. "Now, drop..."
The next scene must have disturbed Mokuba because a loud retching sound escaped him and his head was dropped into the wastebasket in his lap. Tristan let out a loud laugh before smacking the younger one on the back.
"You haven't seen the worst of it."
"I think we've tortured him enough for Christmas eve. Geez, Tris, you trying to ruin the poor kid's life?" Duke stood up ejecting the DVD.
"Nah, I just wanted to piss Kaiba off," Tristan said, still rubbing Mokuba's back comfortingly.
"Yeah, but you won't be the one that has to deal with Seto if he finds out I allowed you to let Mokuba watch gay porn." Joey stood up and stretched. "Why don't you head to my room and get some rest Mokuba."
"Good idea, Joey." Mokuba stood up making his way into the bedroom.
"Relax, Jo. It was all in good fun." Tristan stood up as well. "I do believe though, it's time for bed." Tristan looked at Duke, his eyes brows hinting at something.
"Oh no! Not even. We're sleeping in separate beds and you're just going to have to get off to Commando Asses." Duke shoved the DVD into Tristan's chest, who took it. Duke walked over to Joey giving him a short peck on the lips. "Merry Christmas, Joey."
"You too Duke." Duke walked to the bedroom and Joey was left with Tristan.
"You all right, Jo?"
"Yeah, Tris. Why don't you head to bed?"
"I don't believe for a minute that you're okay. If this is about the Mako thing, stop thinking about it so much. Everything will work itself out."
"I know you're right."
Tristan walked over and kissed Joey's temple before heading to his bedroom. Joey plopped onto the couch and pulled out his cell phone to take a look at it when he found one missed unread message. Joey hesitated, looking at the message and contemplated reading it. If it was from Mako, Joey didn't know what he would do. He had never felt so alone during the Christmas holiday and as he sat in solitude in the seemingly warm living room, he had never felt colder.
He opened the message and realized it was from Seto, received at exactly midnight.
Merry Christmas
Rather than shit himself like a little school girl about receiving the message from the other, he simply sent a reciprocated message back and went to bed.
Joey and Duke had barely finished making breakfast when there was a heavy knock on the door.
"Maybe Ma decided to visit anyway," Tristan said walking into the living room and went to answer the door.
On the other side was Seto who had appeared to of had a long and rough night.
"You're night looks like it was awesome. My question is: How are you still standing?"
"Barely," Seto responded. "So can you get out of my way before I fall on you? If I do, you better be there to catch me."
Tristan stepped back and allowed Seto to walk through and into the living room where he plopped down and relaxed on the couch. Joey raised an eyebrow at the surprise guest.
"If I had known we would be having guest, I would have made more eggs."
"At least this will make Mokuba's Christmas," Duke said.
"Indeed." Tristan walked over to Seto. "Would like something to drink that's not alcohol based?"
"In case you must know...I did absolutely no drinking. My flight was at six and I had to be up at four. Mind you, I didn't get into bed until one. I'm exhausted."
"Yet you find time to club almost every night and still have the capability to wake up the next morning to work a twelve plus hour shift."
"Can you please get me some coffee, Taylor and stop with the third degree?" Seto's frustration was increasing. "Or should I say mother?"
"Yes dear." Tristan grinned as he went into the kitchen and began to prepare the coffee."
"How was Mokuba?" Seto asked.
"He was fine," Joey responded. "He came to dinner and enjoyed himself. Probably was a little awkward considering Serenity, but I think it went rather well."
"His stomach might be a little queasy from the porn, but I think he took it better than I thought he would." Tristan smirked evilly as he started the coffee and turned to lean against the counter with his arms crossed over his chest.
Seto's head whipped around. "Joey, I thought I said no porn?"
"Two against one; I was outvoted."
Seto glared at Tristan whose grin widened and he looked downright wicked. "Yeah, me and Duke are bastards, but I couldn't resist."
Mokuba walked from the bedroom, rubbing his eyes, looking like a kid in his pajamas. He sat on a stool, his mind probably still foggy and trying to wake up.
"Hey Mokuba," Seto said nonchalantly.
"Hey Seto." Mokuba yawned. It took him a few seconds to react before he had jumped from his seat and ran over to the couch, wrapping his arms around his older brother and squeezing. "How was your trip?"
Seto ran his fingers through Mokuba's wild bed hair. "It was okay though it's better to be home. We did get a new vendor so that was a plus."
"Glad to hear it."
Tristan walked over and handed Seto his coffee and took a seat on the couch. "You should stay for breakfast. It'll be ready soon," he suggested turning on the television.
"What else do we have better to do, Seto?" Mokuba asked, with a pout he knew Seto couldn't resist.
"Sure." He snickered, ruffling his hand through Mokuba's hair. "I just need a quick shower." He stood up from the couch, throwing his bag over his shoulder.
Everyone stared at Joey who seemed oblivious until the silence in the room was too much. He looked up raising an eyebrow, wondering why the hell everyone was looking at him.
"What?"
"Show him to the bathroom," Duke murmurmed.
"Why me? I'm cooking over here!"
"Not anymore." Duke took the spatula from Joey's hand and shooed him away.
Joey glared before walking past everyone. "Follow me."
Together, him and Seto walked to the bathroom where Joey gave him a short tour of where extra towels and thing were and then decided to leave him. Joey froze in his steps and turned to Seto, who had just disposed his short to the floor. Joey swallowed thickly.
"Glad to hear you had a good trip and I'm glad you're spending the day here with us."
"More of Mokuba's choice than my own, but it's always just been me and him for Christmas. I'm sure he's more excited about this than anything. Even if I have a whole room full of presents for him at home." He paused as he turned and reached into his bag and pulled out a small rectangular box which he handed to Joey. "Thanks for watching Mokuba for me. I hated to have to leave him around such a time."
"You didn't have to get me anything."
"Yeah, I know I didn't have to. This is for more than just watching Mokuba for a few hours and if I were good with words, I'd write you a letter or would have gave you a card. Your efforts on trying to be my friend may actually be paying off and I wanted to give you some sort of appreciation gift, on my part. So now that I've thoroughly embarrassed myself...mind leaving me to shower in peace? Unless...you wish to join me...?"
"Dude...it's Christmas."
"Suit yourself."
Joey grinned. "No hot intern to pick up last night to make your evening a little more worthwhile?"
"Quite contrary to popular belief, I don't go out of the country and sleep with hot guys. I actually commit to business and business only."
"On that note...I'll leave you to it."
Joey closed the door behind himself and went straight to the bedroom, closing the door behind himself.
He didn't know what had came over him to ask Seto such a question and then on top of that he had to take in the bit about Seto considering him a friend. And the gift? What could it have possibly been?
He ripped open the paper and found a small black box with the label 'Diesel' across the top in a pretty script. He opened the box to reveal a stainless steel watch with a face that was decked out in diamonds against smooth black quartz. The watch was absolutely breathtaking and something Joey believed he would never be able to afford. It had been one of the most expensive gifts he had ever received.
"Yo!" A heavy knock on the door made him jump. "Jojo, breakfast is ready...unless you need me to give you a few seconds."
"I'm coming..." Joey said. "Prick..."
He put the watch in a secure place knowing the guys would have shit to say as soon as they saw it.
It was in the middle of breakfast and a weird conversation when there was yet another knock at the door. Joey stood up and went to answer it and only thought about slamming it. He hadn't thought about Mako for a few hours and was content with that.
"Hi baby."
Joey wanted to scream, but before he could answer, a rather large gift was placed in his hands and Mako walked into the house. He reached out to grab said person, but Mako walked around the corner and came face to face with the breakfast crew.
"Good Morning," Mako greeted politely.
"Morning." Said a chorus of unenthusiastic eaters. Joey grabbed the other's upper arm and guided him to his bedroom and shut the door behind them. He locked the door and tossed the gift onto the bed.
"Why are you here?" Joey asked turning on Mako with his arms crossed.
"It's Christmas, babe and I thought visiting was allowed."
"You already know you're supposed to call. You lost your privileges to just...show up!"
"I have no problem with leaving Joey." Mako frowned. "I just wanted to see you and I thought today...seeing as though it's Christmas..."
Why did Joey feel like an ass now? After all that Mako put him through and now he felt like he was being an asshole to him. It wasn't Joey's nature to be spiteful and right now he pitied the other. Mako and came home to absolutely nothing, except everyone hating him, and on a wing and a prayer that Joey would forgive him.
Joey sighed. "How about I meet you somewhere later? I'm kinda busy with the guys tonight and we're going to have a movie day."
"Cool." Mako smiled. "I'll text you my address and I'll see you later. You should wear the gift. I'll make us a special dinner; It'll be an 'I fucked up and I'm sorry' dinner."
"Okay." Joey laughed. "That sounds good."
Mako headed to the door with Joey behind him, but then turned to Joey. "I just thought about it. Would your boyfriend approve of you coming over tonight?"
"Boyfriend? Mako, you already know I don't have a boyfriend. I haven't had one since you left."
"So, the little display down at your mother's cafe was just a brilliant scene?"
Joey had completely forgot about that day. Without another word, he shoved Mako out of the room and walked him to the door, where he pushed him out and locked the door behind him. He took a deep breath before walking back to the kitchen table and sat.
"Well..." Seto began. "That was awkward."
"Awkward indeed," Duke said taking a sip of coffee.
"Who was that Joey?" Mokuba asked.
"Old friend."
"An old ex-asshole. Someone, might I add, broke Joey's heart. Since when was he back?" Duke asked.
"Guys, I really don't feel like talking about this. It's Christmas and I don't want it ruined on account of him."
"Too late after he just pulled that 'look who's coming to breakfast' stunt! Why are you talking to him? No words should ever be exchanged between the two of you!"
"Let's not be melodramatic Duke. He's a grown man. I think he's allowed to talk to whomever he wants," Tristan said as he began to wash the dishes.
"Maybe, we should go. I think this conversation is extending to become something that is a little too personal" Seto said, but Joey shook his head.
"No! Everyone will stay and we will drop this conversation to some other time! Like never!"
Joey walked into the living room and plopped onto the couch now emotionally drained. Between seeing Seto back and the gift and the words he was told; Mako showing up and now the third degree from Duke-who had nerve-Joey wanted to isolate himself. But he felt as though now was a time to spend with his friends even if the situation was more tension filled than ever.
But Joey found himself outside of Mako's quaint house that was just off the shore, dressed in the shirt that Mako had brought him for Christmas. It was definitely a sweet shirt with a silk lining and was just the right color on Joey. It seemed that Mako's taste hadn't dwindled since he had last seen the other.
The door opened and Mako was standing there in all his bronze glory. His hair was tamed and the dark blue shirt he had buttoned up, threatened to pop thanks to the muscular chest that was hiding underneath. Two buttons were undone from the top and a beachy type necklace lay on his chest. Joey had to swallow thickly to keep from jumping him.
"For a minute there, I thought you weren't coming."
"Between my nerves and Duke wanting to sit on me to keep me from coming, yeah. For a second I didn't think I was as well."
"Well I'm glad you were able to escape." Mako smiled and Joey could feel his heart beating against his chest. "Come in," Mako said opening the door and allowing Joey inside.
Joey held out a bottle of wine to Mako with a bow as he stepped inside. "Sorry I couldn't get anything special."
"You didn't even have to bother, Joey." He took the bottle. "This is perfect."
Joey could remember the conversation with Seto as they stood in front of the trunk of his car staring at the numerous wine bottles that sat neatly in a box.
"If I didn't know any better, I would have thought you were an alcoholic," Joey said picking up a random bottle and staring at the label.
"Because I stash wine? This is nothing. You should see what I have home." Seto reached in and picked up a bottle of white wine. "You should take this one. Class A when it comes to Pinot Grigio. Not to mention, it's good with just about any meal."
Joey placed the first bottle back and took the one from Seto. "Thanks." He looked up at him with a grin. "I didn't think you would be the one to encourage me to go on this date."
"What do I care?"
Joey frowned. "I don't know. I'm not saying Mako is a monster, he's just not a saint."
Seto sighed. "To each his own, Joey." He shut the trunk. "I can tell you still like the guy by all the pictures you still have hanging around. What you need to do when you go to this dinner, is to really decide if it's worth it."
Joey's lips lifted in a small smile. "Seto Kaiba is giving me advice?"
"And wine. I'm about to start keeping a tabs. When you go up can you send Mokuba down. I'm a little exhausted."
"A little? You look like shit Kaiba."
"Ooh, I can always count on you to tell me the truth."
"Likewise, Kaiba. Likewise."
Dinner was quiet. Joey didn't know what to say and he was afraid he would say the wrong thing. Most of the time, Mako was staring at him with this stupid smile like he was getting off on Joey's nerves. Joey also found himself guzzling one too many glasses of wine just to keep from talking whenever Mako asked him a question about what he had been up to and all of the normal shit people talked about when they hadn't seen the person for such a long time.
They ended up on Mako's loveseat, watching some awful action movie that was now rolling credits. Mako turned off the television and switch to some soft jazz music.
"So, was dinner okay?"
"Yeah."
"Well, I guess there's no sense in avoiding the inevitable Joey so go ahead and ask me."
Joey raised an eyebrow. "Ask you what?"
"About what happened?"
"Oh, no thanks. I'm sure you've had that reeling about in your mind for a very long time I think you deserve to be tortured a little more. Besides, I didn't think that's why you wanted me to come over. I would have thought that would be the last thing you wanted to talk about."
"It is. I just thought that you wanted to purge your mind about that issue."
"Yeah, not happening." Joey sighed. "Unless you want me to start to get angry."
"Can I just say that I missed you Joey. It wasn't like I was there because I wanted to. I was there because I had to. I thought I was being responsible."
"Just...stop..."
"Joey, I don't like to see you upset."
"Then stop talking about what happened while you were with...her." Joey stood up. "Maybe this was a bad idea."
"No, it wasn't Joey. Please stay. It's lonely here without someone. I would rather have that someone be you."
Joey hesitated, but he took a seat further in the opposite of the couch. Mako ran a hand down his face and sat back in the opposite corner. "That's fine. We can talk like this. I can yell."
Joey rolled his eyes and scooted a little closer. He gave Mako an annoyed look. "Better?"
"Better." Mako laughed.
"Chai latte with a shot of espresso," Joey said sitting the steaming cup of coffee in front of Seto whose head was resting on his hand. Tristan was sitting with his legs stretched on the bench popping some peanuts into his mouth, his grin wide as he looked at Seto.
"This guy," He said pointing his thumb in Seto's direction.
"Stop being such a prick, Taylor," Seto said sitting up and Taylor shrugged. "I need a vacation."
"Take one," Joey suggested sliding into the seat beside Seto.
"And have my company run by morons?"
"Why would you hire morons Seto? For all that, you should hire Joey," Tristan said.
"He's not going to kill me."
"Change of subject, how was your date last night?" Seto asked taking a sip from his cup.
"Okay, I guess." Joey frowned. "Definitely awkward."
"You're fukcing awkward anyway. What's the difference?" Tristan popped another peanut into his mouth and stuck his tongue out at Joey.
"For your information, I'm not awkward. You try having dinner with your ex and try not to ruin it by bringing up the past, which he insisted we talk about."
"That was his tactic to get you all riled up and heavy so you can go at it like rabbits," Seto said and Tristan nodded.
"Kaiba's right. His balls are probably crying for some attention."
"That's why he has hands." Joey shook his head. "I'm supposed to see him again tomorrow night. He had an interview. He's trying to get back to work."
"Well, it sounds like he's here to stay. What are you going to do about that?" Seto asked and Joey shrugged.
"I'm taking baby steps." Joey looked at his watch. "I have to meet Mai and Téa on my lunch break."
"Are they finally selecting a load sample?"
"You kiss your mother with that mouth Taylor?" Seto narrowed his eyes across the table at the grinning Tristan.
"That's not until after they get married, Tristan. Let them at least get through the wedding first."
"Damn, I'm getting old."
"Yeah gramps. You better start popping out your babies before you shrivel up." Tristan scooted out of his seat just as Joey's mother was walking over. "Hey Ma." Tristan said leaning down and kissing Mrs. Wheeler's cheek.
"Beware, Mrs. Wheeler, you don't know where that mouth has been." Seto took another sip of his coffee as Tristan twitched his nose in disgust.
"Joseph, am I paying you to sit on your ass and talk or am I paying you to work?" She asked smacking him in the shoulder with her writing pad and Joey batted it away. "And Tristan, stop laughing before I put you to work," She said smacking him next. "Up, up, up, Joseph!"
"You're slave driving, Ma-ma. I'm on break."
"I'm out before I'm put on the clock." Tristan saluted them off. "Ciao."