Sorry for the long wait. Please enjoy~.
Warnings: Lemon/SMUT, Marik and the usual 'Blah' applies. This is pretty much unbeta'ed so forgive the errors.
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh!
O-o-O-o-O
Yami tightened the cap on his water bottle before placing it into his bag. An incident with a leaking bottle and a very wet script during his early days as a voice actor had ensured he always secured the bottle. It was embarrassing trying to explain why his script was twice as thick and extra crinkly after he had to blow dry each page with a hair dryer. Some of the pages stuck together and was a near impossible to peel apart. It didn't help that the text came away in the process so he couldn't read the words from it.
Mai-san didn't have words to tell him off. Yami suspected it was more to do with her being stunned speechless by his stupidity than her not wanting to hurt his feelings.
In the end, he had to share the co-star's script, which was a bad idea. Acting a love scene while being in close proximity of the person you are being intimate with is not some he'll want to experience again . . . ever! His flustered partner was grunting and moaning too close to his ears for comfort, and towards the end would have humped him for real if the scene stretched out longer. Yami never made a faster getaway than the one that day! Idly, he wondered if Marik would provoke him to break that record.
The day had gone without a hitch and according to Ota-san they had made good progress. Raphael's scenes had been done and he was not due back until later in the series. Since they needed to focus on the earlier episodes of the anime, the schedule had been organised to reflect that. Yami was sad to see the agreeable man go, he would have gladly exchanged phone numbers with him had Marik warned him not to. The reason being it would lessen the risk of Amelda getting hold of it. Knowing the persistent man, it wouldn't surprise Yami if Amelda tried to get his number with some underhanded method. The possibility of receiving hate mails or phone calls from the hostile man was enough to curb his desire for Raphael's friendship. Still, it was a shame.
A chorus of voices from the doorway yelling his name had steered Yami's attention from his task and to the speakers. Jounouchi, Honda, Shizuka and Rebecca stood by the exit, their bodies half turned towards him as they shouted their goodbyes. Yami gave them a friendly wave and responded in kind. Their voices could still be heard well after they had disappeared from sight.
Smoothing out his script and carefully sliding it into his bag, Yami tried to figure out a way to talk to Kaiba without anyone else knowing. With Marik around, the task was near impossible. The man stuck to him like a shadow and disregarded the importance of personal space—specifically, his personal space.
Speaking of the devil, Marik sneaked up behind Yami and enfolded his arms around the occupied man, making him yelp. Leaning over the rigid body and spooning against it, he rested his chin on Yami's shoulder and tightened his hold.
"Hey," he drawled, "want to join me and Raphael for dinner and drinks?"
Unconsciously, Yami's eyes drifted to where Kaiba was. The imposing man was talking to Ota-san and Raphael. Noa stood not too far off, waiting patiently for his cousin to finish.
A bark of laughter broke out amongst the group and the director slapped Raphael amicably on the back. It signalled the end of their conversation and the group turned to disperse. All pairs of eyes rested on the slight form with the clingy male attached to him.
The amusement in Kaiba's eyes died instantly.
Yami could feel Marik's grin spread across his face; he could feel the adhered cheek move against his own. Yami sweat-dropped. Kaiba was not appreciative of the Egyptian hugging him and it put him in a position where he felt like he'd been caught doing something naughty. Even if he was not at fault, Yami couldn't stop the feeling of guilt when Kaiba regarded almost accusingly at him after glaring at the man behind.
Yami knew he should move away from Marik, but he could not move—he could not tear his eyes away.
The sound of Raphael clearing his throat cut through the awkwardness and broke the spell that bound them. Crimson was the first to look away.
"Marik," Yami sighed, "I think you should let go now." Pale hands attempted to unclasp the arms around him, but the sinewy arms continued to hold him tightly.
"Come on, Marik," Raphael said gruffly, walking up to the said man and placing a hand on his shoulder. "Let's get going."
Marik did not budge a muscle. Ignoring all else, he repeated his question. "So Yami, want to join us?" His voice, like his embrace, held a tightness to it.
Taking a peek at Kaiba, Yami saw he was still staring at him with his steadfast gaze. At first, he was tempted to make up an excuse to fob off the hentai, but somehow, after seeing Kaiba's expression, he felt he didn't want to lie. He owed them the truth.
"No," he replied resolutely. "There are some work-related issues I need to discuss with Kaiba-san." Yami ensured he stressed the "san" to let the others know he needed to talk his employer and not his colleague. "It is important he knows about the possible changes to my schedule and relays them to Ota-san. Since the changes will be taking effect soon, the earlier we address the issue the better it is for the project."
Marik nodded his acknowledgement and released his hold. Arms reluctantly slid off the slender frame and fingers trailed down Yami's clothed arms before withdrawing.
"Pity" Marik said with exaggerated defeat. "To compensate for declining my invitation, I expect you to cuddle Ra to sleep with you tonight. Oh, and bring it to work tomorrow. If I don't smell your scent on it, I will do despicable things to you."
"MARIK!" hissed Ota-san, Kaiba, Raphael and Yami in unison.
"In your dreams," Yami scoffed, turning around to fix the man a glare.
"Oh, you have no idea, Yami dearest!" Marik chuckled. "You are the last thing I think about before I sleep. It is said that we tend to dream about the last thing on our mind. Of course, having audio to enhance the thoughts helps."
"Sorry to interrupt your wooing of Motou-san, but I'd rather we get moving if you still want dinner. The last thing I want is to be in a packed restaurant with people ogling at us while we eat," Raphael groused. "Mutou-san, Kaiba, Ota-san and Noa-kun, take care and goodbye."
Kaiba, Noa, Ota-san and Yami bade him goodbye too.
"Well, my sweet kitten, I love you and leave you. May you have sweet dreams of me while clutching Ra and—"
"Marik!" Raphael called from the doorway. "If you don't get yourself over here now, I'll invite Amelda!"
"Do that and I'll invite Varon!" Marik retorted. Spinning around, he voiced a hurried "See you tomorrow" and sauntered off to join Raphael. "What are you waiting for? Let's go," he urged cheerfully.
"Heavens, I need a stiff drink," Raphael muttered as he walked away.
Marik's fading laughter could be heard as they retreated. "A stiff drink?" he howled. "That sounds so dirty!"
Ota-san dragged out a sigh and rubbed his temple with his finger and thumb, his tired eyes still looking in the direction of the departed men. "Sometimes I wonder how Marik-sensei manages to act so serious when he's so frivolous by nature. It never ceases to amaze me how he got cast as a first class villain when the worse villainy he can do in real life is leave a string of broken hearts in his wake."
No one had an answer for that.
Silence filled the room until Ota-san spoke again, his attention focused on Yami. "Well, Yami-kun, have a good talk with Kaiba-sensei regarding any concerns you might have and he'll in turn inform me of the matter . . . that is unless you need to discuss the issue with me now."
Yami shook his head. "No, I wish to speak with Kaiba-san first since he is aware of my situation."
Ota-san nodded and smiled. "Okay then. If that's the case, I'm off. I'll see you all tomorrow. Have a good evening." With a cheerful wave he left leaving Yami with Kaiba and Noa.
Kaiba took out his phone and dialled it. Noa's eyes narrowed suspiciously as he watched Kaiba press the phone to his ear. He didn't like the direction the events were going.
"Isono, I need you to collect Noa now." Pause. "We'll be waiting in the studio's foyer. Don't be late."
Shutting off his phone, Kaiba returned it to his blazer pocket and turned to Noa. "Isono will be taking you home, Noa. He'll be here in fifteen minutes." Picking up his satchel, he signalled Yami and Noa to follow him as he made his way towards the door. "Come, we will wait for him in the foyer."
Switching off the lights and closing the door, he led them downstairs to the reception area. Aside from the occasional rustling of Yami's gift bag, the silence was deafening. Neither males nor teen made any attempts to converse or make small talk. Unlike Marik and Jounouchi, such endeavours were not their speciality.
Upon reaching the foyer, the trio sat down on the provided leather armchairs and waited. Kaiba pulled out a small electronic tablet from his bag and was soon occupied on it, his tall figure hunched over his work. Chestnut bangs fell forward messily, those shrewd, bright eyes hidden in the shadows.
Mesmerised, Yami watched as long fingers diligently tapped and slid across the device. It was hard not to stare at the man when his very presence commanded attention. Sitting with his long legs crossed and elbows on the armrests, Kaiba still looked every bit of the CEO that he was—even whilst dressed casually in faded jeans, t-shirt and blazer. Yami couldn't begin to imagine what sort of aura Kaiba would give if he were dressed in a tailor-made suit with a dress shirt, cufflinks and tie. He didn't doubt the man would look even more striking and fearsome than he already was. The vision sent shivers of delight racing down his spine.
Swallowing hard, Yami peeled his eyes away from Kaiba and discreetly shifted them to the man's cousin. Unfortunately, Noa glaring back at him made discretion a redundant point. Yami could almost hear Noa grinding his teeth in anger. The fury radiating from the small body was directed at him and him alone. No surprise there! He was the reason Kaiba was sending Noa home with Isono. He was the one spending time with Kaiba and not Noa. Yami pitied the teen.
I hate you! Noa's eyes read.
A slender brow rose to the unspoken declaration of hatred. Hey, I didn't ask him to send you home! Yami silently returned.
But you were the one asking to talk to Seto-nii! Same difference! The small hands resting on the seat curled into tight fists of fury.
Only briefly! Yami pouted with his brows drawn. How was I supposed to know he was going to ditch you!
Noa snorted in disbelief.
Well, whatever! Like I care whether you believe me or not! Think what you like, it's not my fault your precious Seto-nii decided to send you ho—
"Have the two of you finish bitching?" Kaiba's voice cut through the muted conversation, startling the two participants. He didn't look up from what he was doing. "The vibes I am getting from way over here is enough to freeze an onsen*."
The culprits blushed red at the reprimand. Yami coughed in embarrassment and took out his phone; since work was finished he could have it switched on. Noa's glare continued to bore holes into him, but he chose not be goaded into another confrontation. He pretended to be busy.
Checking his messages, he was relieved to see nothing from Marik . . . yet. He hoped it would remain that way.
Scrolling through his phone, he accessed a game called Dungeon and Dice Monsters. It was a free app Yuugi downloaded on his phone and told him to play in his spare time. Yami wasn't very good at it. In fact, he sucked at it!
Yep, super, major suckage!
He lost every single time he played especially to a gamer called The Dragon Master. The gamer owned him every singe time . . . well, except the time Yuugi played for him. Yuugi thrashed the gamer and salvaged a little of his tattered reputation.
After some deliberation, Yami decided against playing online. He couldn't finish a game in ten minutes even with his crappy skills! Instead, he selected to play offline. That way he could save and go back to it later. Before long, he became so immersed that he didn't notice the intruder until he spoke up.
"Kaiba-sama. Noa-sama." Isono greeted his employers with a respectful bow.
Kaiba packed away his tablet and gracefully got up. Yami did the same and gave a lazy stretch for good measures. Noa remained seated.
"Noa?" There was sternness in Kaiba's voice. Noa pulled a sullen face as he sluggishly rose.
Isono waited patiently for his young master to approach him. Unfortunately, the young master insisted on making his disapproval known. He took a few steps and stopped in front of his cousin.
"Can't I come with you?" he asked, hope colouring his plea. "I promise I won't be a bother."
Kaiba stared back. The grim set of his jaw and the thin line of his lips made clear of his answer. It was an obvious "no". He didn't need to voice his refusal and the teen knew it. The slumped shoulder and dejected posture said it all. In remonstration to the decision, Noa dragged his feet as he made his way to Isono.
Yami looked on with a mixture of amusement and guilt. The guilt lasting approximately two seconds before disintegrating into thin air, thanks to a venomous blue glare sent his way.
I hate you. It's your fault!
Yami smirked. You're only jealous because you're not going on a date with Seto-nii . . . The thought stopped and Yami frowned. Did I just say date?
Pause.
Realisation.
Panic!
Shit! It's a date?!
Noa practically growled at him as he passed, shooting him a look with all the hate he could muster. Isono bowed and murmured his farewell to Kaiba and Yami before taking his leave. He hurried after Noa who no longer walked like he had a ball and chain attached to his ankle. Since his request was denied, there was no point dallying. He was out of the door with Isono calling after him.
Yami grinned as he watched the spectacle. It wasn't until the pair had disappeared did he turn to face Kaiba. He was stunned to see Kaiba watching him. Yami challenged the stare with one of his own. The unruly head tilted cockily to the side.
"Shall we?" Kaiba did not hide the amusement in his voice.
Yami shook his head and spoke up. "I only need a few minutes of your time," he said. "You needn't inconvenienced others and yourself for my sake. We could even go back to the studio and discuss the matter. It'll be over in no time."
Kaiba glowered at him. "Whatever you wish to discuss, I'd rather it was done in a comfortable environment particularly should it prove lengthy. It's dinner time, and you and I need to eat."
"I really don't think we need to—" A vicious growl cut short his sentence. Yami's traitorous belly decided to protest against his . . . well, protest! Yami went red in the face.
Kaiba snorted at his companion's embarrassment. "Trust me, it would be beneficial for the both of us. Nothing will be achieved on an empty stomach so let's go. It'll be my treat."
Conceding the point, Yami nodded and the two made their way to the car park. All the while Yami's heart was hammering in his chest and an annoying voice in his head sang, "It's a date! It's a date!" repeatedly.
Yami never felt more mortified and nervous in his life!
O-o-O-o-O
Trying hard not to stare that the man opposite him, Yami focused his attention elsewhere. They were tucked away in a corner of a small dim lit Italian restaurant. Kaiba, after enquiring if he was allergic to anything, was ordering for him. Yami began drifting off with his thoughts.
The car journey was relatively quiet and the subject for the talk was not discussed. Kaiba received several KCC related phone calls, which were discussed at length. Needing the distraction, Yami stared out of the window. He was getting too conscious of every little movement the other made. Whether it was the hands changing gears or on the steering wheel, or the legs pushing down on the pedals; it was hard not to ogle at the muscles flexing in those thighs every time he moved those long, long legs. The way the jeans stretched across the limbs and emphasising them really wasn't helping matters at all!
And don't even get him started on that voice!
Listening to Kaiba talk was heaven. The closed confinement of the car ensured Kaiba's voice surrounded him and Yami was captivated. He wasn't even paying attention to conversation itself. What was said was lost on him; it was the voice that made him lose all coherencies. The changes in pitch, tone and expression held his attention. Yami didn't think he'd ever tire hearing it. It was a shame he wasn't dating Kaiba . . .
Huh?
Discontinuing the thought, Yami nipped the notion in the bud. He was not going to regret not being able to hear a huskier and sultry Kaiba; he was not going to wonder how Kaiba sounded when he moaned . . .
Oh, Shit!
Yami dragged his mind back to the present and shifted awkwardly in his chair. Kaiba looked enquiringly at him from across the table, his fingers tapping lightly against the stem of his wine glass and making a soft tinkling sound. The waitress had served their drinks and disappeared.
"So, what did you wish to talk to me about?" Without further preamble, Kaiba dove straight into the heart of the matter.
Yami licked his lips and began. "I've handed my notice at the convenient store this morning."
Kaiba dipped his head in acknowledgement. "How long do you need to work out the notice?"
"Two weeks."
"It'll still be too tiring for you. Can you not shorten the notice? My company can provide you assistance in negotiating for a reduction in notice or even immediate termination if you so wish it. Any penalties incurred will be paid for."
Yami smiled at the generous offer but shook his head, his countenance solemn again. "That won't be necessary," he said. "I've requested to work only a few shifts a week. The rest the management will find cover for. I only ask that you and Ota-san be lenient and allow me to leave work early on those days."
Kaiba leaned back into his chair and drummed his fingers on the clothed table. Yami could tell he wasn't happy with the news. And he was right. "Won't reconsider your decision, Mutou?" Kaiba's voice was soft with persuasion.
Yami shook his head again. "No, I do not wish to inconvenient the store. The management has always been understanding and good to me. The least I can do is be responsible and not leave them understaffed for the next two weeks. It'll only be for a few days and it'll pass quickly enough." He didn't add the other reason he wished to work. It was imperative he spent as much time as he could with Anzu as well.
Kaiba did not look convinced. "The welfare of each and every staff member involved in this project is my concern as well. You may not wish to inconvenience the store, but it'll be at the expense of the project. The schedule is unpredictable as Marik's bed partners. You can't tell what will happen from one day to the next, not to mention it'll be unfair to expect Ota-san and the cast to work around your other job."
Reluctantly, Yami hummed an agreement and looked down to his clasped hands on the table. Kaiba was right. He was asking a lot, but he refused to give up. Gnawing on his lower lip, he wondered if he should resort to pleading. It usually worked with Yuugi, especially when the kid does his puppy eyes expression. Yami wondered if he could pull it off without looking like a complete retard. He never had to use that method before, thankfully!
A loud deflated huff shook Yami from his contemplations. The handsome face opposite was looking at him with furrowed brows. "Look, I'll see what I can do. I'll talk to Ota-san and see if we can come up with a schedule that satisfy both parties." Yami was about to express his thanks, but Kaiba stopped him with an outstretched hand. "I can't promise anything, Mutou. Ota-san will inevitably have the last word. What he says goes. Do you understand?"
Yami released a sigh of relief and nodded firmly. "Yes, I understand and thank you for your support. Even if things don't go my way, I am grateful you've tried." He gave Kaiba a weak smile.
Kaiba shrugged nonchalantly and folded his arms across his chest, his posture relaxing into his seat. "Good, now that's out of the way, is there any thing else you wish to discuss?"
Yami coughed and lowered his gaze again. Tapered fingers fiddled nervously with the linen napkin in front of him. Two spot of scarlet dusting his cheeks.
"I . . . um . . ." There was more fiddling. A pause, an audible gulp, and silence.
"Yes," Kaiba prompted gently. He barely stopped himself from leaning across the table in eager anticipation.
"I . . . erm . . . about . . ."
Much to Kaiba's chagrin, Yami's comment was cut short by the appearance of the waitress bearing their appetisers. The conversation was temporary postponed while they ate. However, Kaiba's ire soon evaporated whilst watching Yami eat. It was gratifying to see his dinner companion enjoy the hot, fresh garlic bread and the chunky minestrone soup he'd ordered for them. Kaiba smiled when those crimson orbs closed in appreciation to the fare. Yami's expressions never failed to intrigue him; it was ever changing and more eloquent than words could ever be. Complemented with those vivid, hypnotic eyes, it was hard not to be entranced.
Yami was tucking into his food with relish, the awkwardness and the caginess briefly forgotten as he allowed the flavours of the bread and soup to take over his senses. It was almost as good as hearing to Kaiba talk. Almost, but not quite . . .
"I see you're enjoying the appetisers."
The comment made Yami reddened. He was suddenly very conscious of his manners. Was he pigging himself too much to have warranted the remark? He placed the spoon carefully into his bowl and picked up the napkin on his lap. He delicately dabbed his mouth with it before setting it down again.
"Yeah, the soup and the bread are really good. I've never had anything like this before," Yami gave a shy, crooked smile.
Kaiba responded with a chuckle. "Then finish it off," he replied indulgently, waving at the half full bowl of soup and the bread with his spoon. "We can't move onto the main course until you've cleared off the appetisers."
A bob of the tri-coloured head was the reply and Yami continued with his meal. Once it was consumed, the waitress returned to remove the plates and bowls. Yami's content look was endearing.
"So, you were saying before the appetisers arrived . . ." Kaiba resumed the subject that was unexpectedly interrupted. Seeming nonchalant on the outside, he was inwardly brimming with curiosity. This was what was bugging him all day. The restlessness Yami manifested and the stolen glances alluded to something important—something personal.
"Well . . . I . . . um . . ." Yami started fidgeting again. "I gave my situation some thought like I said I would, and work-wise you already have my answer," Yami looked at Kaiba for a confirmation and the brunet nodded.
"And on a personal level . . ." Yami inhaled deeply and released it with a regretful sigh, knowing full well the following words could shatter the tenuous balance they had managed to form. It was a pity really. He was beginning to enjoy Kaiba's company. Once the icy façade thawed, Kaiba was far removed from the jerk that despised him and called him a "nobody". In fact, Kaiba was very pleasant to be around with. He was attentive, intelligent and agreeable. It made what he was about to say that much harder.
Fearful of his faltering resolve, he avoided eye contact with Kaiba and said, "I've decided to pursue my long time crush. I will confess to Anzu after I quit in two weeks."
Silence drowned out the noise of the restaurant and its patrons. Kaiba observed Yami as the information sank in. The confession stung, to say the least. Each word was like a fractured shard of ice digging into his flesh. Each word bit deeper than the last, threatening to carve its way into his heart and freezing it.
To say he wasn't disappointed with the outcome was a lie, but he somehow expected it. It was hard to compete with the fairer sex especially when Yami was so uncertain about his preference. The only consolidation for the rejected man was he had managed to leave an impression on Yami. Those three kisses were not something one could easily dismiss or forget. The reasonable part of him wished Yami all the best with his pursuit, but the malevolent side wished bitterly for Yami to fail—for him to hanker for another every time he kissed the girl. He wanted Yami to remember what he'd be missing.
"Kaiba-sensei?"
Kaiba continued to observe Yami. "Is this crush the reason you insist on working out your notice?"
Yami didn't answer, but the faint colouring of his cheeks said it all.
"Then I wish you all the best," Kaiba lied. He took a sip from his wine glass and wondered how Marik was going to react when he finds out. He, himself, didn't know how to react either. Would he give up or would he wait? Being second best was a bitter pill to swallow.
"Thank you," Yami muttered flatly. After listening intently to Kaiba for so long, he could discern Kaiba's lack of warmth and enthusiasm in the words. It affected him more than he'd like to admit and he unconsciously licked his lips.
Sharp, cerulean eyes did not miss the action. Kaiba took another sip and smirked into his glass. Yes, he certainly left an impression on the petit actor, not all was lost.
The arrival of their main course directed all conversation to neutral subjects, not that there was much talking. Both men were content to eat in silence, occasionally commenting on the project in general or the food itself. Yami was very impressed with the veal escalope served on a bed of cream pasta, and the crispy Caesar salad was a mouth-watering complement.
Mindful of his manners, Yami kept his shovelling to a minimal. He tried to mimic Kaiba's elegant table manners, but failed miserably. He felt like a peasant in comparison. Though his utilisation of the chopsticks was impeccable, his use of a knife and fork was somewhat less than perfect. What he usually ate didn't require western-style silverware so he was clumsy at best. Still, it didn't mar the experience or make the meal less enjoyable. Kaiba had retreated a little into his shell after Anzu was mentioned, but he remained polite nonetheless. Yami was thankful.
After the main course came the dessert and coffee. Yami declined any beverages, but got to taste a little slice of heaven Rebecca called "tiramisu". Each mouthful was sheer bliss. Kaiba even ordered a small tray of it to take away. He explained the restaurant was very well known for the dessert, it was one of their best-selling products. Yami could very well understand why. Although the tiramisu hadn't topped his love for taiyaki, it was very close.
Kaiba asked for the bill not long after finishing his second cup of espresso. The waitress presented the bill to him and he paid for it with his card. Yami wondered what kind of insane limit the CEO of KaibaCorp Communications had on his card—if there was one at all!
"Ready?"
Yami sounded a reply and nodded his head. Getting up, he picked up his bag from his seat and slung it over his shoulder. He adjusted it slightly so it rested comfortably on his hip. Together they made their way out of the restaurant.
Once outside, Kaiba turned and faced Yami with his proposition, "Come, I'll give you a lift home." The car was parked on the next street; it was a short walk to it.
Yami put up his hands and waved it. "No, it's fine. I've inconvenienced you enough for today. I'll just pick up my stuff from your car and I can take the train home."
The soft glare Kaiba sent informed Yami that declining was not an option. He was about to make it known when he tensed. The scowl deepened. "Shit" he muttered to himself.
At the curse, Yami's brows disappeared into his hairline, a smirk hovering playfully on his lips.
"Don't speak, don't look around and do as I do," Kaiba murmured lowly. "Is that clear?"
Gulping down his curiosity, Yami sobered and nodded. Behind him he could hear excited females voices. He caught the Kaiba's name being spoken reverently and in awe.
"Good, start walking and follow me. Stay close at all times."
Turning away from the gaggle of voices, the pair began to walk briskly away. Much to Kaiba's annoyance, hurried footsteps followed them and with it, eager high-pitched squeals.
Trying to keep up with the other's long-legged strides, Yami half-jogged beside Kaiba. He noticed they were going in the opposite direction of the car. Neither spoke as they tried to out-walk their pursuers. The steady patter of footsteps behind them matched their speed if not their strides. The fans' determination to catch their beloved idol rivalled said idol's desire to flee them. The former soon won out as Yami, after consuming a large meal, began to develop a stitch in his side. His faltering steps allowed the pursuers to eat up the distance.
"Mutou," Kaiba hissed, the urgency in his voice was tainted with worry as he eyed the other clutching his side. "You alright?"
Grimacing, Yami gasped out between laboured breaths, "Go! Run! Don't worry about me, Kaiba-sensei. Make a break for it, save yourself!" He flapped his hands in a shooing manner.
Kaiba rolled his eyes at the other's bravado. "So dramatic, Mutou!" he grumbled and grabbed a flapping hand. With it firmly in his grasp, he tugged the lagging male along with him.
Increasing their pace to a sprint, the pair threaded through crowds and across streets under Kaiba's navigation. The disappointed wails of their pursuers soon died away and the only sound Yami could hear was the pounding of blood in his ears. Kaiba, on the other hand, was keenly aware of Yami's panting.
Glancing over his shoulder to ensure they were no longer chased, he diverted them off the main road and into a slip road that led to a quiet residential area. Houses flanked both sides of the narrow road and the lights from the houses faintly illuminated the path. The street lamps were too far apart to provide adequate lighting.
Slowing down, he pulled his exhausted partner into the shadows and released him. Yami leaned heavily against the tall, concrete wall surrounding someone's residence trying to catch his breath. A light sheen of sweat coated his temple, his flushed face was screwed up in pain. He wiped the sweat away with the sleeve of his shirt.
"Y-you . . . c-co-could have l-le-le . . .ft . . . me . . . b-behind."
"And let you be mobbed by my fans?" Kaiba scoffed. "I didn't know you like playing the martyr, Mutou."
Yami sent the man standing in front of him a tepid glare. "N-not me they want. I-it's you!"
"They could hold you hostage," Kaiba pointed out gravely. The comment made Yami laugh which then made him wheezier. With his upper torso bent forward and his hands planted on his knees, Yami coughed and spluttered.
"Here." A hand patted his back whilst another offered a bottle of water to him. The bottle was half full which meant it was Kaiba's.
Yami stared at the extended arm, the bag with the tray of tiramisu swung back and forth from the crook of it. Yami wondered if the dessert was still in one piece after the battering it got when they were running.
"Oi," the water sloshed inside the bottle as the hand shook it in his direction, reminding the would-be recipient to take it. "Drink some water, you need it."
Straightening up, Yami took the bottle, his hands shaking as he opened it. He stared at Kaiba as he took a long swig from it. The other looked unfazed by the glowering male and smirked back at him.
"Marik said his fans adore you, do you think mine would value you less especially after you were seen in my company?"
"I think 'being seen in your company' sounds suicidal to me," Yami grumbled as he twisted the lid back on the bottle of water. "I am either going to feel the brunt of their displeasure or I'll be receiving Osiris plushies with pins stuck in it."
Kaiba laughed aloud. The sound was pleasant to the ears. It was rich and hearty. "I think they'll learn to appreciate you soon."
"What, a 'nobody' like me?" Yami declared with mock horror, his eyes wide and his mouth agape.
"Well, I can safely say the calibre you've shown recently has rescinded that status," Kaiba joked. "You certainly have everyone's attention now."
"Everyone?" Yami teased back, the corners of his lips quirking with delight. "Even the great Kaiba-sensei, the much loved and respected prince of the dubbing world? I should be flattered."
Kaiba took a step forward and raked his eyes slowly over the taunting male, who blushed at the scrutiny. "You should," he whispered. "Your voice could earn you many admirers."
"Just my voice?" Yami breathed out, his eyes fixed on the face before him.
Kaiba was so close he could smell the other's scent—he could feel the heat radiating from the lean body. Yami's heartbeat sped up, as did his breathing, the feeling of déjà vu filling him with an acute sense of want. He tried to suppress the nervousness fluttering in his stomach; he tried to calm the battering of his heart against his ribcage. It was so strong; he feared Kaiba could hear it.
Blue and red remained locked onto each other . . .
Both felt the world had stopped spinning on its axis. Everything came to a standstill as far as they were concerned.
Both keenly felt the pull. They gravitated towards one another like the tugging of the tide and shore.
Both knew they should have stopped yearning to avoid complications. Both knew they should have severed their needs, yet . . .
Just one more . . .
Both minds echoed the same thought as they leaned in to one another, eyes closing as lips timidly met. They parted fleetingly then joined again. Each kiss grew bolder and fiercer with each passing second.
Desire.
Grabbing Yami's face, Kaiba tilted his head to the side and delved his tongue into Yami's mouth, hungrily lapping its inner contour. Through his aggression, he thoroughly dominated the kiss.
Want.
Yami responded fervently. Parting his lips, he entwined his tongue with the invading one and teased it mercilessly. Tiptoeing, he curled his arms around Kaiba's neck and pulled him down. The latter moaned into his mouth and Yami felt one of Kaiba's hand trail down his side and wrap itself around his back, drawing their bodies closer. The other slid across the back of his neck and held his head in place. Yami felt the bag Kaiba was carrying bump his shoulder.
Need.
Deepening the kiss, the pair was oblivious to everything. Anzu was temporarily forgotten. Nothing else mattered to them anymore. Nothing, but their bodies pressed tight against each other and the need to taste one another. Despite Yami's resolution, both gave it their all.
Just a little longer . . .
Again, their thoughts mirrored each other's. Passion poured into that one kiss because one needed it for memory's sake and the other wanted the other never to forget.
However, all good things must come to an end and eventually they pulled away. Kaiba nibbled Yami's lower lip as he withdrew. The gentle throbbing it emitted was strangely comforting to Yami and he ached for contact again.
Fuck being straight, this man made him feel alive!
Opening his eyes, Yami looked into the heated blue. It took all of his self-control not to mash their lips together again. During the exchange, he felt his pants tighten as his cock harden. Judging from the rock hard bulge pressed against his belly, he knew Kaiba was aroused too.
Was it too late to change his mind?
"Come, I'll take you home," Kaiba turned and began walking away. Yami, after adjusting his pants, quickly followed him. He was still clutching the water Kaiba had given him.
The journey to the car was a silent affair. The journey in the car home was also in silence. It was as if their searing encounter had exhausted the need for communication. Besides, both men had much to think about and were content with revelling in their own thoughts.
Thankfully, it didn't take too long to get Yami home. The route Kaiba had taken avoided the in-town traffic; the expressways he favoured enabled him to cut the journey time in half—that and Kaiba driving like a maniac! Yami was pale from being scared shitless by the time the car pulled outside his apartment.
Kaiba left the engine running as he got out of the car and headed to the trunk. He heard Yami opening and closing the car door behind him. After retrieving Marik's gift and the tiramisu, he closed the trunk and walked over to Yami. "Here," he said, holding out both bags.
Yami looked at the second bag with confusion painting his face. "Isn't the dessert for yourself?" he asked slowly, too unsure to take what was offered.
"I saw how you enjoyed the tiramisu and thought you'd appreciate some to take home with you," Kaiba replied casually. "Here, take it. It needs to be kept chilled so ensure you put it in the fridge."
Hesitantly, Yami took the bags from Kaiba, grabbing it from mid-way to lessen the chance of skin-on-skin contact. He wouldn't know what he'll do if their fingers brushed against one another's. Since he hadn't quite recovered from their ardent tête-à-tête, his body was still sensitive to Kaiba's touch. It hummed with the other's close proximity.
"Thank you," Yami said with a small smile. "Thank you for everything and good night." He turned to go.
"Mutou," Kaiba called out, prompting said male to instantaneously stop and spin around.
Yami looked at Kaiba expectantly, his reddened, plump lips parted slightly and his expression soft.
"Let me know your night job schedule tomorrow so I can discuss it with Ota-san."
Yami grunted softly and nodded. "Goodnight," he repeated and marched off.
Kaiba watched the retreating figure until he disappeared from sight. Only then did he climb back into his car.
Activating his phone, he put the call on loudspeaker before speeding off. There was one more thing he needed to take care of . . .
O-o-O-o-O
The first thing Yami did after removing his shoes was to put the tiramisu in the fridge. He didn't want the dessert to spoil. Once that was safely stowed away, he made to the folded futon and dropped his butt onto it. Leaning back, he closed his eyes and recapped what had transpired not long ago. Reflecting back, he couldn't quite believe—after everything he said—they had kissed again.
Lifting his fingers to his lips, Yami carefully touched it. It was still a little tender from their zealousness.
Was it too late to change his mind?
The question flashed before him again, enticing him with delicious possibilities should he decide to forgo Anzu. Could he do it? Yami was tempted . . . sorely tempted.
Sighing aloud, he opened his eyes and stared into space. Truth be told, he was definitely attracted to the man. It was ironic considering how appalled he was with the man's behaviour when they met. It was strange how things changed in such short space of time.
Yami snorted into the silence. How did an infatuation with his voice quickly escalated into something tangible like desire and lust? When did it become so physical?
Reflecting back, he had to admit he enjoyed Kaiba's company when they are alone. Despite his wariness around the man, Yami felt safe. Kaiba had always defended and looked out for him, even when they barely knew each other, even when the latter had a profound dislike for him. He could understand why Amelda had a hard time letting go of Kaiba. The man was like a magnet. When he repelled, no one can get close to him and when he attracted people, none could pull themselves away.
Obviously, there was an attraction between them. From what he experienced tonight, it was clear that he wanted Kaiba and Kaiba wanted him.
Yami snorted again. If only things were that simple.
Grimacing, Noa's warning came to mind, further complicating his dilemma. Yami didn't want people to think he was using Kaiba to springboard to fame. He didn't want relationships to undermine his credibility. He was no Amelda! Perhaps, it was for the best he settled for Anzu. The kind and sweet Anzu who was always supportive and encouraging of him, he could not go wrong with that choice, right?
Shaking his head to dispel any negative thoughts, Yami vowed he would confess in two weeks time. Nothing will prevent it from happening. Nothing.
A loud knock on the door startled him from his musings, causing him to jump with fright. Frowning, Yami went to answer the door.
"Special delivery for Mutou-san," the man at the door chirped.
Taken aback at the lateness of the delivery, Yami stared speechlessly at the beaming man for a few seconds. "I am Mutou," he said tardily.
The man's smile broadened as he thrust a small brown box to him. When Yami took it, he said, "Please sign here." He offered Yami a stylus and held out a device for him to sign.
Yami did so swiftly then withdrew back to his apartment with the parcel. Setting the box on the table, he stripped back the sticky tape and tore it off. Lifting up the flap, he removed the scrunched up brown paper inside and fished out the contents.
He let out a surprised gasp at the item he held in his hand.
It was a plushie. An Obelisk plushie.
Yami smiled as he studied the doll. It certainly wasn't anything like Obelisk, but the bright blue eyes and goofy grin made him smile.
Sitting down once more, Yami hugged the doll to his chest whilst sporting a goofy grin of his own. It would have made Obelisk proud. He vaguely had an idea of who sent him the doll and his grin widened.
O-o-O-o-O
Somewhere halfway across town, a message appeared on the display screen of a phone.
Parcel safely delivered and signed for, it read.
It elicited a smirk from the driver. It pays to have a huge company at his disposal. It's handy to have a willing courier service for him to exploit. Aside from the sordid business with the girl, Kaiba was rather pleased with how the evening turned out.
O-o-O-o-O
The sound of synchronised movements and breathless moans filled the darkness.
The long, hard length of his lover stroked the inner walls of his passage, bumping into a particular spot that made his body go limp and rigid at the same time.
Pushing up his hips, he countered the other's movement thrust for thrust, clenching and unclenching the object of intrusion as it slid in and out him.
Nails clawed the broad back, raking across the damp skin and leaving vicious red trails in its wake. The action excited his lover and the thrust increased in velocity. He screamed at the relentless stimulation, his back curled into a high arch as his body was fiercely plundered.
He raised his hips to grant better access for his lover and was rewarded with the stiff appendage ramming hard and deep into his body at a different angle.
Tension gathered around his groin, his release ready to explode out him.
A large hand stroked his erection to the tempo of the thrusts. The pumping action matched that of the lunges that sunk into his flesh.
He couldn't hold back anymore. Digging his feet into the mattress, he pushed his hips up and climaxed. His release came out hot and fast. A ribbon of white sprayed out of his pulsing length and coating the hand that held it.
As his orgasm ripped through his body, his lover's name was ripped out of his throat and spilt into the hot, stifling air . . .
"Kaiba!"
Yami woke with a shout; his body jerked itself into an upright position. One hand gripped the blanket whilst the other grasped tightly onto his hair. He tried to calm his laboured breathing. He gulped down air like a drowning man.
What the fuck!
No matter how he tried he could not get the images out of his head. Everything felt so real. The lewd sounds, the hands on heated skin, the pain, the pleasure . . . and the climax. Everything felt so real that he could still feel the tremors of his release vibrate through his body and the warmth of his cum on his skin . . .
Then realisation hit him like a brick between the eyes.
Lifting up his blanket, he hooked a thumb around the waistband of his pyjama and boxers and peeked in. Disbelief swamped him as he grappled with the severity of the situation, a predicament he had landed himself because he happened to be the last thing on his mind when Yami fell asleep. Like some hormonal teenager, he came in his slumber.
Yami had a wet dream . . . a wet dream about Kaiba.
Oh, fuck!
~TBC~
O-o-O-o-O
Author's Note: My apologies for the wait, I would have worked on this sooner had stress, RL and poor health not taken a toll on me. Add a brief spell in hospital because of a kidney infection and voila, you get a very tardy update. With that said, I hope this was worth the wait though. Sometimes, I can never be sure.
So, the next chapter will be much-anticipated interview. I am certain it'll be amusing to write. My thanks to those who left questions for our boys, I hope you'll have fun reading the replies.
Once again, I would like to thank those who have left me reviews. Know that I truly appreciate them. *hearts you all* Hugs to Mom!Secret Moon Princess for enquiring about an update, it's nice to know you're missing it.
As always, your thoughts on this is much loved and welcomed. Please review.
Finally, replies to unsigned reviews:
[Please note that anonymous reviews are posted in my deviantArt account instead.]
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*Onsen – a term for hot spring.