A/N: Life. Life got in the way...I'm sorry!
February's chilly winds were dying down as March's warmer air was rushing through Domino City. Some people were bold enough to wear shorts; while the less risky few were not taking any chances and stuck with their heavy winter coats.
Young Jaden was one of the bold ones. His dad told him to bundle up, even a little, but Jaden knew he was already late so bundling would take forever. Besides, he wasn't wearing real short shorts, they were just shorter than regular pants. Luckily for him, Atem was already at Jaden's home. As soon as his big brother rang the bell, Jaden zoomed out of his house.
"Jaden!"
Jaden stopped running as Atem was catching up to him. After he composed himself from running a few blocks, Atem gave Jaden a stern look. "Why did you ran as soon as I came over?"
The young boy shrugged, "Because."
"Jaden."
"OK!" Jaden knew he can't keep his reasons a secret, "…because we were going to be late. AND we still are!"
Atem checked his watched and mentally cursed. Jaden was right.
After the Snow Contest, Tea invited the boys to her student's recital. Since Jaden is friends with some of the girls, they decided to go. Jaden could not stop talking about his friends and how cool they would look dancing. Atem just wanted to be the big brother he promised himself to be, and not because Tea was smiling as she was asking them.
Not like he was blushing either.
"It's almost five!" Jaden announced annoyingly, "Can we PLEASE hurry up!"
Atem nodded and both the boys ran as fast as they could to the Domino City Community Center. It may be early March, but Atem could still feel the winter air blowing up against his face. Good think he had his leather jacket and pants, otherwise running would not be an option for him.
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Tea gathered her dancing clothes and put them inside her bag. Early Saturday practice was a new thing for her. Ever since she met Atem, she decided to be out more often. Her mother may have left her apartment but she still feels stressed out just thinking about her.
Of course her idea of "going out" meant more ballet practice with herself, at least it's a start. Especially when she saw her students dance beautifully yesterday, looking at how they're all improving made her think about her own dancing. There was a time when dancing was her only life. She guessed it would be best to try to go back to those days when she was just dancing for hours.
Remembering the dance recital made her realize something: Atem and Jaden didn't came. As the recital went on, she overlooked the audience again and again. The two boys who seemed ecstatic about coming to see her students weren't among there. Well, Jaden was the ecstatic one, Atem looked down on the floor as soon as she asked him. She wondered why but didn't think much of it. But I did give them the time, she thought, I hoped everything was alright. Then she remembered what Joey and Tristian asked of her after the Snow Contest the week before. Atem was in trouble and they needed her help. She was unsure of helping, especially since she had no idea what was wrong. In the end, she decided to help out after all. Maybe…she began to speculate, maybe Atem needs help now and I had no idea.
Since March started, Tea decided to wear her light pink jacket and capri pants. She believes if February is over, then it is officially spring, even if it is cold. As she headed out the door of the Community Center she noticed two people, a boy and a man, who appeared to be running towards her. Noticing their trademark hair, Tea felt relieved as Atem and Jaden were trying to catch their breath.
"Tea!" Jaden could only gasp for air as he tried to talk to Tea.
Atem was the first to compose himself. "We're so sorry!"
"Atem's the one that is really sorry! He forgot what time the show started!" claimed Jaden, pouting and facing away from Atem's somewhat guilty face.
He slowly frowned as he recalled the real reason why they were late, "Said the little boy who INSISTED it was at five today-"
"Today?!" cried Tea. She didn't like where this was going. "I said the recital was on Friday, which was yesterday…"
The boys were completely quiet as seconds passed.
Then a few minutes.
Jaden faced the sky as he took in a deep breath, "AAAAAAAAHHHHHH MMMMAAAAAAAAAANNNNNNNN!"
Atem had his hand on his face. He didn't want to see Tea's disappointed face as he called himself several types of stupid. He should have known better than to let Jaden be in charge of reminding the both of them of the recital. Jaden gets distracted too easily.
As Atem was mumbling beneath his hand, Tea gently reached towards his busy hand. Her soft touch brought Atem back from his guilty state. She didn't look disappointed nor was she angry.
Tea was smiling. It was a small, sad smile. With her other hand, she patted Jaden who was softly crying. "I know you were both looking forward to it. But don't worry. There is always next time."
Jaden sadly pouted as he looked down at the ground, "But we promised Alexis and the others…I wanted to see them dance now…"
"Jaden…" Tea mumbled.
"Jaden!"
The trio looked up and noticed a spikey haired man running towards them. Atem figured out who it was and he was starting to get nervous.
"D-dad?!" Jaden trembled as his father was catching his breath. "What are you doing here?!"
"Toshiki, is something wrong?" Atem swiftly, and calmly, stood between the father and son. He worried how Jaden will act with his father in front of Tea.
Toshiki Yuki's befuddled face confused Tea. She noticed Jaden's sudden nervousness and became worried. More so when the boy's father was somewhat glaring at him. Toshiki's aura immediately became hostile.
Jaden's father scratched his head, "First, why did you immediately gone out the door when the bell rang?"
Jaden all a sudden found the concrete street below him really fascinating, "…I was going to be late…"
His dad arched his eyebrow while narrowing his blue eyes, "Ok. Second, I was just about to talk to you before you left. Didn't you hear me?"
Jaden shuffled his feet like he was playing imaginary soccer, imagining he was losing, "….I was late…so I ran…"
Toshiki ran his hand into his dark beige hair, "Well. If you would have stayed longer, you could have heard me say that you were a day late….buuuutttt…."
"Toshiki, it's my fault. I should have known." Atem didn't mind Toshiki. He is a great dad, just a little on the hard side.
"Yeah, well, what are you going to do..." Toshiki said, "Anyway, today Jaden has a checkup. Let's go."
"What!" Jaden exclaimed.
"The doctor wants to make sure you're all right and well. We're late, so let's hurry."
Atem looked down at the boy. Jaden gave his big brother the biggest puppy eyes he would ever give him. Jaden didn't want to go.
"You need to go." Tea bend down to the sad boy's level. "I'll make sure to tell the girls you missed them. Besides, they rather have you in good health than in another cast. Right?" She slowly figured out that Toshiki is just being a concerned father. As a teacher, she meet a few of those types of parents. They look and sound mean but they do it for their love of their child.
Tea's gleaming face made the reluctant Jaden walk to his father. "…ok…"
Toshiki thanked and apologized to both the adults and was off with Jaden. Leaving Atem and Tea alone.
Which made Tea nervous. Okay, she thought, was that a bad idea? Is everything all right? Did I do the right thing? Was I supposed to say no? And now I'm with him? I can't help Atem out without Jaden! Crapcrapcrapcrap! This is way too much pressure!
"I'm off too. Sorry…"
Tea quickly looked into her bag, made sure the envelope that she won at the contest was there and immediately took a deep breath.
"W-wait!" She grabbed a small bit of Atem's leather sleeve, hopefully not ruining since it felt expensive. A blush creped on her face at her suddenness but she couldn't think of anything else to grab his attention.
She wants to talk to him. She wants to help him. She promised so many people that she would do this knowing that she only met the guy through sheer coincidence. But that night's meeting is slowly changing her life, for the better. And if a stranger helped her feel somewhat better of herself, which meant a lot to her, than she can do the same for Atem. Hopefully. "I uh…well…I have some coupons for free bread from the bakery down the street…from Pankakapan…soooooo" Tea really wanted to run away right now but stood tall with the envelope in her hand.
Atem was completely speechless. He just stood there, awkward and clueless. He felt his face beginning to turn red so he quickly turned his head away from a very determined lady. Today is just not my day, he thought. But…
"Oh…if you don't want to…" Tea mumbled. She was taken aback when Atem turned his head. Since he is not one to talk, unless he is with Jaden or people who know him well, he is probably silently saying no. But then she remembered how everyone is counting on her. Their faces pleaded her for help. Helping the person they love the most. A true friend to them. Tea slowly inhaled and prepared herself for-
"I didn't say no…"
Tea froze. She wanted to look at his face but it was still facing the other way.
"I'm sorry…I haven't really been out much…" Crappy words, Atem mentally swore at himself. If Jaden were here, the young boy would have said yes for him right away. But his health comes first, even if Jaden didn't like the way his father told him so. Atem reminding himself to talk to Jaden about it later but first- "I would like some bread…I heard they make the best…in town I mean…" He could just feel his boyish blush all over his face. But if it meant not listening to Tea talk in such a depressing mood, he would embarrassed himself a million times more. Right?
The biggest smile formed on Tea's face. She was delighted but befuddled at the same time. For some reason, Atem's face was as bright as her own jacket. "Alright," she pointed at the street behind her. "Let's go."
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Pankakapan is Domino City's number one bakery. Their chocolate cornet is famous for its soft pastry cone and rich melted chocolate that can make any non-dessert lover buy Pankakapan's entire store.
Which is why Tea controls her sweet tooth by avoiding the bakery. It's a blessing, or a curse, that the bakery is on the opposite direction from her home. The fresh baked aroma filled the bakery as she and Atem entered. A small chimed sound echoed gracefully when the door behind them closed. The bakery was small but cozy with its wooden tables and chairs with fluffy, colorful pillows but none of that mattered to Tea. The glass displays filled with cakes, bread, cookies and everything sweet made Tea hungry for everything.
"Welcome!" A young girl came forward and rested her arms on the counter in front of her customers, "Welcome to Pankakapan! What would you like today?" Her smile brighten the store, like a sunflower.
Tea stepped forward, "I have some coupons I would like to use…" She pulled out the envelope and opened it. She was confused at first when she first opened it back at the contest. Joey figured some sweets would do Atem some good. But she also recalled Tristian and Mai complaining that free cake is not going to help their best friend, Joey still insisted. His face was pretty serious and practically begged Tea to use them for Atem.
"Ooooooooooo" The young girl's eyes sparkled like gold and immediately pointed at the trays next to her. "All you have to do is pick at least ten pieces of our best bread, or my mama's cornet, or maybe pappa's melon bread or anything! Ooooooooo! You can also pick some of the cakes I made today! Anything!"
The adults took a minute to realize she wasn't lying.
"Are you sure?" Atem questioned.
The girl nodded with her brilliant smile, "Yep!" She then pointed at the envelope in Tea's hand. "That is the prize for the Snow Sculpture contest right?
Both adults nodded.
"I help my papa decided what the prize will be. I picked the envelope, so I know. I was waiting for the winner to come over since forever. Soooo-" She picked up a tray with the silver utensil, "Go right ahead!"
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Tea couldn't decide. Looking at the glittering éclair, she wanted to cry. The bakery was filled with everything she wanted to eat. Since they can only pick ten, Atem suggested to split it between the both of them. Which was good news for Tea, since she didn't want to worry about her weight. She glanced at Atem behind her. He looked weird. Not that he is weird, she thought, more like out of place. His serious demeanor and leather everything inside a cute little bakery made Tea smile. He looked like he was deciding between a piece of strawberry shortcake or a tiramisu.
"Jaden would like a strawberry shortcake!"
Atem turned to the young girl next to him.
"He likes strawberries. You should know that!"
"…You're in the program too?" asked Atem,
She grinned, "Yep! My name is Saki Hyuuga! Jaden is pretty famous but I'm older than him, so I don't see him much because we're in different groups. But I do know how much he loves strawberries. As soon as Joey heard my family owned the bakery, and told everyone, Jaden asked me for a free slice of cake."
"He would..."Atem smiled a little, imagining the little boy's gleaming face. "I bet he was running towards you too…"
"Yep!" agreed Saki, "I just don't get why he never told his parents about the bakery…."
Tea quickly looked at Saki. Jaden not telling his parents? She imagined Jaden was the one that would tell his parents anything cool or exciting.
"Tea?"
Startled, Tea almost dropped her empty tray. "Y-yeah?"
"I'm done choosing…"
"That's good!" She glanced at her still empty tray. "I'm almost…. not done choosing…"
"Need any recommendations?" Saki asked eagerly.
"Probably…"
The next few minutes, Saki was giving the adults a small tour of the bakery. Atem didn't mind the wait, even if Tea felt like it was her fault for taking so long. Regardless, Tea wasn't paying attention. Everything tasted good. Once in a while, Atem was offering his own opinion about each bread, though he was only suggesting the cake pieces.
Tea noticed his gleaming face at each cake. He smiled as he suggested the strawberry shortcake, mentioning it was Jaden's favorite. The tiramisu was his little brother's favorite. The mention of Yugi Mutou lit up his face immediately that Tea had to pinch herself. But it didn't last for long. He pointed at a fruit tart and his face frowned.
"That's papa's favorite."
Tea almost dropped her tray again as a little girl appeared out of nowhere. What scared her more was her school uniform. Sailor top of pink and blue with a blue short skirt. White stockings and black Mary Jane's. That's the private St. Domingo Academy's uniform. She never saw the uniform before but for some reason, the little girl's empty expression made the cute little uniform creepy.
"Setsuka?..." Atem's eyebrow rose as he firmly inspected the little girl. She looked like she was eight. Her extremely white, short bob hair was tucked in her blue beret. Her striking blue eyes were piercing his face. More importantly, the dragon looking backpack behind her is indeed the one Setsuka's father bought her for her birthday.
"Papa said if I don't remind you about his favorite tart that you should give for his birthday, a big one, he was going to sue you for giving chocolate to mama on Valentine's Day."
That girl is definitely Setsuka Kaiba.
"What are you doing here?" quietly asked Atem, slowly getting nervous.
"I'm with mama." Setsuka stated, like a business women stating the facts about a complicated chart.
"Setsuka-chan!"
A beautiful young woman slammed the door of the bakery behind her, hurriedly running towards little Setsuka. Her white-ish, or is it really, light blue wondered Tea, was tied up in a big, messy bun and her pale looking face was all red.
"Mama." Setsuka turned to her mother and waived. "You shouldn't run in the cold."
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Atem wanted to run. Run so very far away. His sister-in-law was right there in front of him. Tea is beside him, being freaked out by Setsuka. He quickly figured running immediately through the backdoor befor-
"Huh-oh-Atem!"
Too late. He placed the filled tray on the counter and held his breath. All of a sudden, warm arms were surrounding him from behind and he could hear gentle giggling.
"It's been a while! I haven't seen you since Valentine's Day! How are you?!"
Atem, with a struggle, turned to face his hugger. "Hello….been a while…Kisara…"
Kisara Kaiba finally let go of his brother-in-law and smiled. "To think, I was about to go come here later." Her blue eyes noticed the befuddled Tea. "Atem. Don't be rude. Why don't you introduce me."
Atem mentally groaned. He never once wanted Tea to meet any member of his family. His plan is beginning to sound like a great idea at the moment….
"My name is Tea Gardner. " Tea awkwardly bowed, her confused eyes looking at him.
"Nice to meet you, Tea-chan. My name is Kisara Kaiba. This is my daughter, Setsuka. Setsuka-chan, introduce yourself." The mother motioned her daughter, who felt it unnecessary.
"My name is Setsuka Kaiba. I'm nine years old and I attend St. Domingo Academy. Pleasure to meet you." The little girl bowed in front of Tea.
Her mother clapped in approval. "Adorable, Se-chan!"
Atem scratched his head, "Is there a reason why you're here, Kisara?"
Kisara stopped clapping and pondered for a moment. "My shift is done for today. I thought I would bring home the cake Seto ordered. Which reminds me" She turned to Saki and asked for her order.
"Ojisan…," called out Setsuka.
Atem took a minute before he could respond, he figured out what the girl wanted, "Yes?..."
"Buy me something." Setsuka commanded. Her mother looked at her disapprovingly so Setsuka quietly added, "…Please…"
"…Why?"
"Because you gave chocolate to mama but not to me."
Kisara giggled. "Atem, it was not fair. You know that you must give BOTH of us a gift if you ever were to give us one. Besides, Seto might find out sooner or later."
Atem hid his flushed face from Tea. He quickly picked up his tray and lightly push Setsuka towards the fresh cookies, hoping she wanted something small and cheap.
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"So…you're "Tea-san"…."
Tea turned to Kisara, whose glittering eyes were all over her. She couldn't help herself but to mentally fond over Kisara. She is so pretty, thought Tea, like an angel…
Tea looked at young Setsuka, whose little fingers were commanding Atem for everything on the display, much to Atem dismay. Setsuka, on the other hand, was not as angelic.
"Setsuka-chan only acts like that because it's the only way for Atem to notice her," explained Kisara.
Tea blinked, "Huh?"
"There was a time when Setsuka-chan would smile in front of her uncle and be happy. Atem is her most favorite uncle. But then…." Kisara trailed off, her glittering face dimming slowly.
Tea blinked again, "Uncle?"
Kisara raised her finger to her lips. "I'm his sister-in-law." She quickly bowed, hoping Atem didn't notice. "On behalf of my family, I'm so sorry. Sorry for giving you such a huge burden."
Tea shook her head. "Oh-I agreed on my own. I want to help and do the best I can…to help. But," she took a deep breath, "I have no idea how to help exactly. I don't really know the "big problem" about Atem…"
Kisara took a deep breath. "He has some…difficulties that he doesn't want to bring up…or get help for. I thought I had a chance to help him. But he didn't like the idea…." The white-haired women looked over the displays of cakes and continued, "I don't want to say too much, but since we all begged you to this situation so suddenly, I have to say something. I've known him since we were young, as like our other friends, and knowing that I failed on helping him…" Her eyes glittered with tears. Kisara deeply cares for Atem.
Tea quickly opened her purse and scavenged for her handkerchief.
Jaden's loyalty. Joey's determination. Tristian and Mai's encouragement. Yuna and Yuhi's positivity. Kisara and Setsuka's love. These stranger's heart, all beating as one to find the best help for their friend, she thought. They are trying so hard yet it seems they aren't close as to cure Atem of whatever is bothering him. He desperately needs help. And if Kisara is on the verge of tears after happily hugging Atem, then he needs help ASAP. Tea handed her handkerchief towards the tearful woman.
"Um…" started Tea, "I promised. Jaden, Joey and the others. I can see Atem is a part of many people's lives. And I can see why." She looked at Atem as he paid for young Setsuka's a piece of tiramisu. While his face looked aggravated, his eyes sparkled just like his niece's. Tea smiled, "I…still don't know what I can do to help. But," she remembered the heart that he gave her. Her reminder of the hope and courage she never knew she had. "I'll give it my all."
Kisara lightly dabbed the handkerchief on her swollen eyes, "Tea-san…thank you."
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Atem let out a breath he never knew he was holding. Kisara and Setsuka left, but not before Kisara gave him another one of her infamous bear hugs. It felt different, he wondered. Her hugs were always filled with love and support, yet this particular one intrigued him. A stronger, tighter hug…
"-kay-uh-Atem?"
A hand brushed his arm, bringing Atem back from his thoughts. "Huh-ah-yes?"
"…Umm….I was asking if you wanted to sit near the window…or-"
"Ye-yes! That table is fine." He assured Tea.
Tea had just finished picking her share and suggested to eat them in the bakery. While few entered and left just to buy bread, there were tables near the large window for those who wish to eat.
Atem quickly sat down. He sat the tray too hard that it echoed across the store. His face turned red as he rapidly put his head down.
"Ummm-hey, look at this chocolate cornet!" pointed Tea, "It's so soft! I wonder…" She took a bite from the small end. In a few seconds, she hungrily stuffed the cornet into her mouth. The chocolate cream melted deliciously in her mouth. Warm and fluffy, Tea's mouth entered itself into a chocolate wonderland. She couldn't help but to indulge herself in it.
"At this rate, I might need to keep an eye my stomach." Tea confessed.
Atem stared at her.
"Uhhhhhh-" Now Tea's face glowed red. She wondered if she was being too comfortable with Atem. She still doesn't know if he sees her as a friend or some strange person with a sweet tooth.
"Nothing. Forgive me…..for being rude…" He hid his mouth with his hand. For a moment, Tea could have sworn she saw a smile.
"Well…I shouldn't be the only sucking in these treats. You should have some too." Tea suggested, "At least eat them for Jaden. He would have wanted it."
"Actually, I will be taking some, at least the cake, to him." He confessed, "Can't have him pouting at me for eating his favorite dessert."
"He likes strawberry shortcakes?"
"He love strawberries in general. If it has a strawberry on it, he would gulf that down in a heartbeat."
"The love of a kid….He's so energetic…Must be nice having him as a younger brother…"
Atem didn't bother hiding his mouth again. His smile widened at the thought of Jaden. While they can get in each other's nerves at times, Atem wouldn't mind it. Jaden is still a kid. Imagining him growing up, being loyal to all of his friends and bringing in the best of them. Jaden will indeed make Atem proud.
Atem wouldn't mind having some of Jaden's energy one day. He might need it.
"He still has a lot of growing up to do. But he has heart. He can talk to people with energy and compassion, once his shyness subdues. He didn't talk to many people when I first met him. I heard from Joey that he was bullied at school. His parents suggested to switch him to another school. But after having Jaden join the program, and discussing the problem with Joey and the others, Joey thought it wasn't a good idea."
"Why not? If the bulling was bad, which I'm assuming-"Tea's voice trailed off. She didn't want to bud into other people's personal lives, but when Atem nodded, it sent shivers down her spine.
"It was but Jaden didn't want to leave. After joining the program, he had made friends with Alexis and others. With the girls, the bulling toned down a bit at school. But every so often, I hear from his parents that Jaden comes home with missing shoes, gloves and money." Atem's hand clenched. He questioned himself for giving too much information to her so soon. He's starting to get a bit comfortable and he didn't like it. For all he knew, she would probably get bored.
Yet at the same time, he knew she wouldn't.
He was right. Tea was glaring at her melon bread with anger. Some of the customers, both inside the shop and out, were wondering why the young woman was sending electric shocks to her piece of bread.
Tea hated bullies. While at New York, she often heard other girls making fun of her. Just because she was from another country and barely knew any English. But the worse bullies, worse than snobby American girls, were her parents. Her mom, with knowledge of her daughter's everyday life, apparently, would determine if her closet is the best of the best. While ignoring her existence for the rest of the 365 days of the year, something might pop up and her mom magically needs her daughter. Her dad, not being able to take care of his own life, let alone another, is oblivious to everything in his daughter's life. Being extremely passive-aggressive might as well be a form of bullying, she thought.
"You….don't like bullies….I see…" Atem put much thought into his words.
"They should know better. The damage they are purposely giving to others. It's not right. These kids that bother Jaden. Why aren't they stopped? Have someone talked to their parents? Do the teachers know? This can't go on!" Fumes swirled around their table, but Tea didn't care. Her fire can reach the other side of Domino City and burn it to the ground if it meant sending the message to the bullies.
He was used to seeing her eyes shine. Beautifully. Energetically. This was different. Atem imagined they would fire up like Joey's whenever he lost a game. Comical and over-dramatic.
Not Tea's. They burned with passion for justice. Her face determined and proud. She wants to help Jaden. Now.
"Their parents know. The teachers are fully aware. Yet both aren't always around them. Kids go out and play in parks. With so many of them here in Domino, they can't keep track of the kids' whereabouts. Also," Atem made a strange face, "Jaden refuses to talk about this."
"What!" Her chair loudly crashed as she jumped out of her seat. She quickly apologized while picking up her seat, her face fully crimson but not with embarrassment. "What do you mean he doesn't want to talk about this?" Jaden is determined to help out his big brother but completely ignores his own problems?
"He remains quiet. He'll pretend it never happen and moves on, especially when a friend needs him for something, "Atem explained. "His parents try their best but Jaden ignores them. Maybe because he was adopted…"
"…Huh?"
Atem raised his eyebrow, "Jaden is an adopted kid. I thought you knew?"
Tea dropped her donut. An adopted child. Is that why he ignores his parents? Because they aren't his real ones? Does he not feel like they are his parents?
While poking his cake, Atem eyed his companion. He can see it in her face. She was thinking of ways to help him. Her eyes were spinning here and there. Fingers tapping the table, rapidly and loudly. This woman, a teacher, knows, he assumed, how a child's mind works. It is their job to make sure a child is ready for the world after school. Even if she does teach a simple dance class, she has more experience with children that he had. Taking care of Setsuka, he immediately thought, does not count. He found himself grinning.
Tea noticed, "Uh…."
He shook his head, "Sorry, I just never thought I would be taking about this….to someone I just met…"
"….OH!" Tea's spinning eyes dropped, embarrassed she was actually budding into personal matters. She loves Jaden but maybe it isn't in her place to help; even if it twisted her heart.
"Not that there's anything wrong with all this…I-well-I'm actually glad I told someone else…like you…"
"Oh…..OH!" Bashful, Tea dropped her head. She never thought of herself as the shy type but hearing his voice delicately praising her-she thinks-made her head spin.
Without saying anything else, they returned to their cakes and sweet smelling pastries. Both wondered if it was alright to leave such a delicate situation as is but found that eating sweet bread helped calming them down. They didn't know why they were so flustered that they silently prayed that Jaden would join them in the future or randomly pop up at any moment. Which in turned made Atem's face turn beet red.
"Um…" Tea grew restless after a few minutes. She wasn't getting anywhere by chewing cake. "Are you free?"
It took every muscle and will power to prevent Atem from choking. While it looked like he was in pain for a few seconds, he quickly returned to his quiet demeanor. "I'm usually with Jaden during the weekend. So…" He rapidly tapped his fingers on the table. "I guess…I am…"
"Great!" exclaimed Tea. "I'm also free on the weekends!" C'mon Tea, her mind encouraging the rest of her body, you can do it! "Once we're done, do you want to hang out?"
It was a good thing he didn't have anything else in his mouth. Otherwise it would have fallen off his gaping mouth. He hoped it didn't made Tea feel weird or rude asking him about his availability but he never imagined her asking him about it.
He quickly dropped his face. Along with Tea's hopes. Was it too sudden? She asked herself. Was I not supposed to ask him that? But then how-
Atem immediately regretted it. He noticed Tea's reflected face from the window and it pained him. Not like Jaden's puppy eyes. He can live with that. But Tea's sadden face was not a young child. He forgot that another adult is sitting right in front of him. An adult he is slowly starting to care. A true friend, like Joey and the others. Even like his brothers, Yugi and Mokuba. He took a deep breath.
"That sounds…wait-first-" Atem took another deep breath. "Please, forgive me…I didn't meant to be rude. It's been a while…since I was last hanging out with my friends. Sorry…"
"Don't be. Being in America made me a little too straightforward." Tea admitted, "I don't want to do something you don't want to. It's totally up to you. I just wanted to get that idea out there, you know?"
"And I think it's a great idea. Again, my apologizes."
"That's awesome!" Tea cheered, "Is there any place in particular that you want to go?"
The young man reminded himself that he was asked a question. He thought it was cute that she's shinning with pure joy, he couldn't look away.
There wasn't any place he could think of. No good movies out. The parks are all covered in mud and slush, so nothing pretty to walk around. Shopping is out of the question, for him at least. It hit him that he didn't really knew that much about Tea. Jaden's question game was a while ago but he still remembers some things about her. Although, it doesn't really help him at the moment. Until he remembered something.
"How about….the arcade?"
Tea's eyes shinned brighter. She was excited and proud. The look on his face as he suggested the place was new for her; he was actually grinning, just for a moment. "Great!" She stood up, hoping she won't drop the chair this time. "The arcade we go!"
"Uh-wait!"
Tea froze, her leg in midair, hoping to move on to their fun-she hoped-hanging-out-time.
"Why don't we take the bread with us too?"
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After saying good-bye to Saki, and Atem buying more cakes for Jaden, the two young adults were off to the arcade. Luckily for them, it was a short bus trip away, Tea said.
"…We could walk…" Atem suggested.
Tea sighed in relief. "Good. I didn't know if you were a walking person or preferred transportation. To be honest I prefer walking too."
"…Yeah…"
They walked in silence. The walk to downtown will take them a while yet they both didn't care. The need for fresh air soothed them both. The wind moved their hair a lot, so it helped hide their embarrassing blush. They were quite happy knowing that they both like to walk. Or so they assumed about the other.
"Is there a particular reason you chose the arcade?" Tea was curious, hoping to break the trend of silence they seem to be having.
"….Actually…" Atem started, not knowing how to phrase his words well for the next part. "I remembered you talking about New York that day at the hospital…How you were a dance student…"
"Oh." Tea was flattered and confused.
"Then I remembered a game Kisara and my younger brothers used to play when we were kids…that dueling dance game…"
"DDR?" she asked, holding her excitement.
"Yeah, that one."
"Oh my gosh," she squealed, "I haven't played that in ages. I used to play that every weekend at the arcade. It's so much fun dancing with people. It was a blast!"
Atem smiled, "That's good. I didn't think of any other place to go…I hope it doesn't sound childish."
Tea shook her head, "Of course it doesn't. We're old enough to go anywhere we wanna go. Arcade included. Who cares." Unless you have crazy parents who judge you and it hurts, but she kept that part to herself. "Do you like to play games?"
"I used to…" he confessed, "Back in high school I would play with my friends and family. Mostly my brothers. Card games, board games and video games. My younger brother, Yugi, absolutely loves them. Even during college, he would call me to play a new game he found."
"Hehehe, he sounds like fun guy."
"He's always up to having fun. Whenever someone he loves is feeling blue or hurt, he'd always be there for them, bringing a smile to their face…."
His voice trailed off. "Atem?..."asked Tea.
"I wonder what he's up to…" His eyes wandered around town, pondering.
"Have you seen him at all lately?" If Atem has a younger brother that brings joy to others, why hasn't she heard of him. Surely Joey and his friends, even Jaden, should have mentioned her about Yugi, yet they didn't.
Atem shook his head. "He moved to America, along with my other younger brother, after college. The last time we spoke over the phone was New Year's."
"Oh…" Tea didn't ask anything else. His tone dropped tremendously and was nothing more than a whisper. She mentally panicked. What if she wasn't supposed to ask about his brother? Was that why the guys didn't tell me?
"Are you well with your mother?"
She nearly jumped at the sudden change of conversation. He switched the topic, she internally screamed. And about her mother no less. "Uh….pending…"
"It…takes time…"
"I guess…" sighed Tea.
"You guess but older people tend to neglect that motion. Time is growing short for them, so they rush anything and pretty much everything because they can and will. They grow more stubborn than ever before," lectured Atem. He didn't understand why he's saying stuff like that. For him, it was the only way to change the conversation. He loves Yugi but he doesn't need him right now. Tea does.
"…It's not right."
Atem looked down at her. Her face was stone serious and distant. Now you've done it, he mentally kicked himself. Tea is the one that was kicking and screaming on that snowy night a month ago. Her mother is not something he should be meddling into. Still, he thought, he does want to know whether or not they made up or something.
"Things are still rocky…but for now I want to forget about her." Her smiling face, the same one he would always remember for years to come, shinned with such brightness. With real light. "We're going to the arcade to have some fun." She punched the air with so much energy, "Let's go!"
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The arcade was jam packed with teens and young adults. Monsters being killed with shot guns and martial artists were being defeated all around them. It brought Atem memories from his teenage years. The many hours and money he and his brothers would spend on just one day. The itch to play intensified the more games he passed by.
"There it is!" Tea pointed at the brightly lit sign that announced the DDR game. The last time she played DDR was back in her dance school days in America. The rhythm and melody engulfing her as she twirled excited her immensely. She couldn't wait to try it.
"Oh no…" whispered Atem, a sudden gloominess surrounded him.
"What's wrong?" anxiously asked Tea.
Atem pointed at the now debunk game with a sign that miserably states "Out of Order."
"EEEEEHHHHHHHH!" Tea wanted to cry but let out something between a cry and a wail.
"So much for dancing…"
"It must have been recently…." Tea noticed cracks and rust here and there. It was years ago since I last played here, she thought. But don't beat yourself up for this game, she later realize, there are a lot more games to play. "Good thing this is an arcade. There are plenty of other games to choose from."
Atem hesitated and slowly crossed his arms. He looked like Jaden when he's disappointed; it actually pained Tea seeing the cool looking guy in leather actually pouting. Even though it was actually pretty darn cute.
"Stop! Big Brother!"
"I want to summon it!"
They turned around and noticed siblings fighting over a game. The older brother was sitting down in a shiny metal seat, glaring at the screen with his life. His younger brother was using all his strength to push him off the seat but to no avail.
"YES! I got the card!" The older boy raised his arms high while pretending to hold a card, or at least that's what Tea thought. Otherwise the boy looked like he was just crossing his fingers.
"That still works?" Atem was amazed that his favorite game was still working. He forgot all about DDR and quietly walked over.
"NOW I SUMMON BLUE EYES WHITE DRAGON!" The boy hysterically yelled as his hands slammed a red button. The screen glowed as a loud roar blasted the speakers.
Luckily for Tea there was a TV monitor on top of the game, so she saw the white dragon the boy was so excited to play. It looked like it was about to battle a nurse looking lady with a very large syringe. She thought the characters on the TV were from a movie since they look so real; the nurse looked petrified of the dragon.
"ALRIGHT! NOW! IT'S TIME!" The older boy stood on the seat, announcing the world of his actions. "MY BLUE EYES WHITE DRAGON WILL ATTACK INJECTION FAIRY LILY! BURST STREAM OF DESTRUCTION!"
The dragon's blue eyes glowed as it opened its mouth. A white ball of what appeared to be energy-Tea thought- started to grow bigger and brighter. In an instant, the dragon let out a final roar and released a white beam at the poor nurse.
But the fairy suddenly smirk and Atem noticed.
The boy took a few seconds to realize that his dragon's attack was being reflected by a mirror. Seconds later, the dragon was destroyed by its own attack.
"Mirror Force…" commented Atem. He looked closely at the screen, directly where the fairy is standing. A card behind her with a mirror like picture was standing on its own. "It was a trap card…"
"WHHHAAAAAAAAAAATTT!" The boy collapse in disbelief.
"Serves you right!" The little brother huffed.
"Bu-but-how?" Tears suddenly rolled down the boy's face. "I lost…"
"Not quite." Atem stood behind the seat, analyzing the screen. To think, he thought, that Duel Monsters still works. It even looks like it got some upgrade. I haven't even seen half of the cards in his hand.
"Oni-san?" The little brother was tugging Atem's pants, "Can you beat her?"
"WAIT!?" The older brother hugged the seat with his life. "I CAN WIN!?"
Atem smiled, "And you will."
The boys, and Tea, looked confused.
"Atem, you played this game before?" asked Tea.
He nodded while pressing a yellow arrow button, "Duel Monster was my life when I was in school. My brothers and I would spend hours upon hours on this game. Then we got our friends hooked. Mostly Joey. That was a bad idea…I bet Seto never recovered from that migraine while playing against him…"
"TRY TO SAVE BLUE EYES!" The boy was yanking on Atem's jacket, hoping he got the message.
"First, why don't you tell me your name?" Atem asked, not bothered by the constant yanking.
"My name is….Ren…."
"Well Ren, unfortunately, I can't summon your dragon back-"
"BUT-"
"-but I will take you to victory. Just believe in your cards." His reassuring voice gave Ren confidence and nodded.
"Alright. Since Blue Eyes White Dragon is destroyed…and the cards in your hand cannot be used right now, I have to end your turn." He pressed the red bottom, the game recognize the player's actions and letters appeared before them claiming the turn ended.
Immediately, the game declared that it was the CPU's turn. Two cards were placed behind Injection Fairy Lily.
"Hmmm…" Atem didn't like those cards but he had more things to worry about. That Fairy's ability, he thought, I bet it's going to be activated. He looked at the top of the screen. The CPU has enough Life Points to do so…
"AAAAAAHHHH!" Ren exclaimed, "HER SHOT GOT BIGGER!"
"The nurse monster's syringe got bigger," Tea said quietly. She noticed numbers rapidly going down on the top of the screen. Nudging her companion-friend?-Tea hoped Atem noticed that and hoped that wasn't a bad sign.
"Those numbers are our Life Points," explained Atem, "Once they hit zero, the game is over and the player with any remaining points wins."
"The points that just went down to 500…are those-"
"My opponents."
"Oh thank goodness…"
"But the CPU activated Injection Fairy Lily's special ability."
"….Huh…" Atem's audience didn't like the sound of that.
"By giving up 2000 of its life points, Injection Fairy Lily's ATK points, which started out as 400, is raise by 3000."
"3400 attack points?!" They all called out in unison.
"I'M GOING TO LOSE!" exclaimed Ren.
"How many Life Points do you have?" asked Tea.
"At this moment, 3900. But that won't be for long…"
The monster threw her syringe at the screen and almost all the boys' Life Points went down. Two cards appeared behind her, face down. The game declared the end of its turn.
"Our turn!" The little brother hailed. His little hands somehow found its way to Tea's jacket. She didn't mind. She bend down, giving him a reassuring smile. Atem knows his stuff, she thought, I bet he can win, no problem!
"I draw!" proclaimed Atem. A card appeared before them. Right now, I have three cards, he pondered, and thankfully I drew a monster.
"Awww…she's adorable!" Tea read the new monster's name. "Witch of the Black Rose…she doesn't look like a witch…."
"But she can't fight the other guy's monster!" cried Ren, "That fairy has a lot of points!"
"Not anymore." They all looked at Atem as he explained, "Injection Fairy Lily's attack points only rose when she attacked me. Afterwards, her points go back to normal."
"400, right?" asked Tea.
He nodded. "Since the CPU used almost all of its Life Points, her ability can't be used again. Which means we can attack it with the Witch of the Black Rose. Her attack points are 1700, quite enough to destroy my opponents monster."
A purple haired, gothic looking witch appeared before Injection Fairy Lily, ready to fight with her wand. The Nurse just shrugged.
"Black Rose Witch," commanded Atem, "attack Injection Fairy Lily!"
A dark purple light surrounded the Witch's wand. Black rose petals danced around and around the monsters that everyone's heads started to spin. Suddenly, the petals engulfed Injection Fairy Lily-
"We did it!" claimed Atem.
But the petals then scattered away from the monster. Witch of the Black Rose was then destroyed.
"WHAT?!" everyone yelled.
"Another card!" The little brother pointed behind the CPU's monster. A card was indeed standing behind her.
"Shoot…" Atem mentally punched himself for forgetting the face down cards. "Sakuretsu Armor…It destroys any monster for just attacking…"
"Ohhh noooo-SHOU!" Ren angrily pointed at his younger brother. "Why didn't you tell us?!"
Shou hid behind Tea, tears overwhelming him. Tea petted his little head.
"Ren."
The boy almost jolted out of his seat. Atem's voice wasn't angry but it did send chills down Ren's spine.
"It isn't anyone's fault….but my own." Atem remorsefully stated. "But there is nothing we can do now. Our turn ends." He pressed the bottom.
The CPU drew a card and set it on the field, face down. The screen announced the Battle Phase.
Atem winced. Although the CPU doesn't have enough Life Points for another Attack boost, he thought, it will surely attack. I have nothing on the field to protect me nor do I have cards in my hand to negate the attack. And by looking at our Life Points, it will leave us with only 100 Life Points…
Injection Fairy Lily rode her small syringe to the screen. It looked like she cracked it but Tea reminded herself it is only a game. The boys wailed as their Life Points dropped close to their defeat.
"We're going to lose!"
"It's my turn…Draw…" Atem pressed the bottom and gasped. He never heard of Cyber Dragon so he read the card's description.
"T-tuner!"
All eyes were on little Shou. He quickly pointed at one of the cards on the screen.
"Dark Resonator?" asked Atem.
"SYNCHRO SUMMON!" exclaimed Ren, "You can TOTALLY summon Stardust Dragon with Dark Resonator and Cyber Dragon!"
"Synchro summon?" Atem was still confused. He's never heard of that particular summoning. Special summons required monsters on the field or hand. According to the boys, he apparently had the right monster to summon this Stardust Dragon.
"Summon Cyber Dragon first…" Little Shou peeped.
"Since I normally can't summon level 5 or higher monster without first sacrificing one of my own, Cyber Dragon's effect allows me to automatically summon without sacrificing and if my opponent has a monster on the field." Atem smirked, "Good call, Shou."
In an instant, a snake-like, silver dragon roared across the battle field. Injection Fairy Lily gulped with terror.
"Cyber Dragon's Attack is 2100. That is more than enough to defeat Injection Fairy Lily and win the duel-"
"But I want to see Stardust Dragon!" demanded Ren. "Stardust Dragon is soooo cool. It shines and it's a cooool dragon! You just gotta use him!"
Atem couldn't help but laugh. "You like dragons, don't you?"
Both of the brothers nodded enthusiastically. Ren then tapped the side of the screen showing a face down card. "All Synchro monsters are here but you need to tune Cyber Dragon with Dark Resonator! Quick! Summon Dark Resonator!"
Atem could have sworn he was talking to Jaden. "Alright, alright." He said calmly, "Since Cyber Dragon was Specially Summon, I can Normal summon Dark Resonator." A little demon with tuning forks appeared next to Cyber Dragon.
The cards on the side began to glow. The computer asked the players if they would like to Synchro Summon.
"GO! GO! GO!" Ren was jumping up and down his seat, ready to greet his favorite dragon.
"I guess I have to click on the Extra deck…" murmured Atem.
"So you have extra cards then the ones in your hand?..." Tea asked curiously.
"The Extra deck contains cards that can be Special Summoned if certain conditions are met." Atem explained, "For this Synchro Summon…the game tells me that I need a level eight monster to summon Stardust Dragon."
"Cyber Dragon is a level 5 monster," Shou said. "Dark Resonator is a level 3. Both of them make a level 8 monster."
"ANNDDD!" Ren interrupted his little, "You forgot about the tuner monster. You can't do a Synchro Summon without a tuner. But you have Dark Resonator, which is a Tuner monster, so you can do it now. SUMMON THE DRAGON!"
After selecting Stardust Dragon, the game asked Atem for the required monster. He selected both Cyber Dragon and Dark Resonator.
Dark Resonator hits its tuning forks twice before turning into three green rings. Tea awed as the rings surrounded Cyber Dragon. The dragon roared one last time before turning itself into five glowing white orbs.
"Oni-chan! The chant!" Shou reminded his brother.
"Let's have oni-san say it!" Ren turned to Atem. "Say the chant!"
"Huh…" Atem was confused.
Ren pointed at the bottom of the screen. Words were rapidly scrolling down.
"SAY THE CHANT!"
"Uhhh..Ok!" Atem quickly looked over the chant. Thankfully it wasn't long.
"Clustering wishes will become a new shining star….Become the path its light shine upon!" The screen turned blue as a shooting star flew across the azure sky. "Synchro Summon! Take flight, Stardust Dragon!"
The shooting star gracefully became a silver dragon that glittered as much as it roared. Atem never saw a dragon as beautiful before. He could never compare it to Blue-Eyes.
The dragon stared at the screen, as if it was awaiting orders from its masters. And Atem knew it. The whole world stopped. He couldn't hear the excitement from the boys. He never did when he was playing this game. This world where monster fought for glory and honor. The hours he spent battling his friends and family. It was all his reason for everything. He had the best memories of his childhood here but the back of his mind reminded him of his current goals.
"Atem?"
He snapped back to reality. Her soft voice. Her hand on his arm. This young woman that appeared out of nowhere yet was quite similar to him. Both hiding their true feelings but she has a greater heart to do so.
"From my hand, I play the Spell Card: Heavy Storm!" Atem pressed the buttom and a green card appeared. A sudden storm engulfed the entire battle field. "This card destroys all the Spell and Trap cards that are on the field."
Injection Fairy Lily was shaking as the two cards behind her were destroyed. There was nothing to protect her. One day, he will also have nothing to protect him from the dangerous future. But he realized that spending time with Tea might help him strengthening his own heart.
"Battle! Stardust Dragon will attack Injection Fairy Lily!" Atem looked at Stardust Dragon, as if it knew what to do. And he believed the cosmic dragon did. "SHOOTING SONIC!"
With a tremendous roar, Stardust Dragon unleashed a shining beam of star dust.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"BYE! THANK YOU!"
The siblings waved their hands both shyly and ecstatically. Ren couldn't believe how cool Atem is and wouldn't leave the adult alone. His parents apologized for any inconvenience but Atem assured them it was alright.
To be honest, he thought, I don't mind spending more time with them. At least to play some more duels.
"Wow…time sure flies by…"
Atem noticed the sunset from across the city. He smirked.
"Something funny?" Tea asked.
"I would also leave this place when the sun starts to set. Otherwise, my older brother would nag us about our homework."
She giggled. She can't imagine Atem, a high school kid, not wanting to do his homework. "I bet you still got awesome grades."
Atem shrugged, "It was the only way to come back here and not have him lecture me about grades and such." His face began to flush red. He never thought he would be so careless and honest around Tea.
"Hahaha, at least you had fun and had the best grades. I'm pretty jealous."
His brain froze. Hopefully, he thought, the sky was dark enough to not show his blushing face.
"Anyway," Tea continued, "this was pretty fun. I have to agree with Ren. You were pretty cool back there. The way you ordered that dragon…." Now her face began to blush. She shook her head. "It was really cool. I would like to see it again…"
The lights around Domino City began to flicker on. People around them tried to bundle whatever they had on to protect them from the sudden chilly wind. Winter may be over but the brushing gale reminded everyone that it is too soon to assume.
Could Tea assume something? He thought. This is how it starts. Everyone starts to hang around him more. Then the talking begins. It started with Yugi. Then Seto, Kisara, Joey, Tristian, Mokuba and Mai. The kids get involved. Jaden tried once but he gave up.
"I mean…if you want…" Tea became worried as Atem's face darkened. She doesn't want to push him. The way he ordered that dragon, the strain in his voice, Tea also felt scared. Not that she's afraid of him but she figured if she pushed him the wrong way, something might happen.
She truly wants to be his friend. Tea doesn't know how to approach this matter. Of course she has friends of her own but they all moved on when they became older. But she was always the optimistic one, when her mom isn't around. She wants to brighten up Atem's day. She wants to talk about Jaden and worry and help him together. She wants to play in the arcade again. She wants to learn Duel Monsters.
She wants to learn more about him. Like a true friend.
"I really want to be friends with you, Atem"
There it was. Atem only recalls the smile from his own wavering memory. The smile that shines brighter than the lights around. Brighter than Stardust Dragon's glow. He forgot all about his friends and just stared at Tea. She truly means it.
"Tea, I would be honored…" He stretched out his hand in front of her.
Tea blinked at least three times. "Woooow-I mean-a-awesome!" She sighed in relief and shook his hand. "I'm glad! Thank you, Atem!"
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Atem opened his apartment door. The voice machine reminded Atem of the many messages his uncle left him.
"Did you ever figure out how a phone works?"
Atem quickly turned on the light and groaned. His older brother, sitting down on the couch like the king he thinks he is, was facing the phone.
"Seto….You did have the extra key…" Atem complained.
"How else would I bring you the latest gossip from father-"
"No."
"Stop it-"
"Make me."
Both grown men started at each other, as if they were battling inside each other's mind. But Atem looked away first, he was never used to Seto's piercing blue eyes. He would rather stare at Tea's…
Seto just shook his head. "He said you need to go over to his office. He can't find something."
"Not my problem."
"I have disagree."
"Sucks to be you."
"Stop hanging out with Wheeler or I'll eat the chocolate."
Atem's eyes squinted. His older brother was holding a box similar to the one Atem gave to Kisara for Valentine's Day-
"Are you serious!?"
Seto scuffed, "You know the rules: Give a gift to Kisara, you give a gift to Setsuka and me."
"You hate sweets."
"Not true."
"Okay, you like one, but you do hate sweets."
"Setsuka doesn't"
Atem held his breath. He didn't like where this was going.
"Look. Whatever your problem is, it has to stop now. I don't know why you aren't getting the help you need. You are a freaking grown up and I shouldn't be the one to remind you." He dropped the box on the ground. "But if you continue to ignore my daughter, then I don't want to see or hear from you again. I don't know why she continues to worry about you but she does. It's bad enough that you pushed everyone else away but don't you DARE push my daughter away. She is way too young for your bs."
Seto rose and began to walk out the door. "You're damn lucky Kisara forgives you…" As he was about to close the door, he quickly whispered, "Be careful, you dumbass. Father has eyes on you. Don't push anyone else away. He's desperate."
Atem slid down the wall. He banged his head a few times as Seto's threat slowly sank in.
A/N: It's been a while, huh...Have any comment? complaints? Mostly complaints? Give 'em all to me!