Hey guys!

Really sorry this is a little late, I had a bit of a fight with it on top of being quite busy with family and friends because it's close to Christmas.

I've got a couple of days off around Christmas so I'm hoping to have a bit of time to do an update or two after Christmas Day.

Hope that you enjoy, thank you to everyone who is reading and enjoying the story!

Much love - Cam x

Chapter 3

In all of his years on this Earth, Yamir Atemu had never seen anyone as beautiful as the ethereal being that was stood in front of him at this moment. His hair was similar to Yami's own except he had fewer blonde streaks and one extra small bang that tauntingly brushed his smooth forehead. The bang swayed slightly and almost threatened to go into his eyes. Yami's left hand twitched as he fought the intense urge to reach over the bar and push it out of the way. He was pale and luminous, not one blemish marred his face. His lips were plush, red, and round. Yami couldn't help but notice that they were slightly damp, as if the man had recently licked them. Then there were those eyes, those wide, magnetic eyes the most startling shade of amethyst that Yami had ever seen. They sparkled with mirth and innocence in the low lights of Millennium and Yami could feel himself getting sucked into his gaze. Yami's eyes eventually left the man's face to rove over his body. He wore a white shirt that flared out at his throat and was loose on his arms. The cuffs of the shirt stopped shy of his slim wrists which only accented his elegant fingers. Numerous rings that decorated the digits, his fingernails were painted a glossy black. A black waistcoat nipped the shirt in at his waist and chest which showed off his petite, yet lithe frame. Black leather trousers encompassed his legs which made it seem like they went on forever. The leather trousers were snugly tucked into a pair of black military boots that finished the look.

Yami was suddenly aware that the young man was looking at him expectedly and he was stood there like a fucking idiot! Great Ra, is that a choker around his neck? Jesus Christ Yami, talk! Say anything! You're a grown-ass man not a lovestruck teenager! Yami internally screamed as the man raised one elegant eyebrow, one hand was firmly planted on his left hip as he looked at Yami expectantly.

"You called?" He said lightly, a small smile played around his full lips. "Can I help you?"

Yami's eye twitched, he even sounded like a perfect angel! Yami cleared his throat, awkwardly. "Ah . . . yeah I was looking for the owner. My cousin Mana is performing tonight."

"Why didn't you say so straight away!" He exclaimed. "Jou, I'm going on break! Will you be okay with just Anzu and Serenity?" He shouted at the blonde man behind the bar.

"Sure thing, Yug!" He waved at the owner before turning his attention back to the customer he was serving.

It was Yami's turn to raise an eyebrow as he looked at the petite angel in front of him again. "Is your name Yug?"

The young man blushed before he shook his head vehemently, his bangs swished from side to side. "Sorry, that's just a nickname Jou calls me. I'm Yugi, Yugi Mutou." He extended his hand to Yami in greeting.

"Yugi." His name felt perfect rolling off of Yami's tongue and he had to stop himself from shivering as he clasped Yugi's smooth hand in his own. "Yamir Atemu, but everyone calls me Yami."

"Well, I'm really happy to finally meet you Yami. Mana has spoken very highly of you." Yugi flashed Yami a brilliant smile. "Before I come over, did you want anything to drink?"

"Whisky on the rocks?" Yami asked as he leaned his elbows on the sleek bar. "I have no preference on brand."

Yugi nodded and grabbed a tumbler before adding in some ice and the alcohol. Yami was low-key impressed how graceful Yugi was as he worked. His movements were practiced and fluid, every moment was purposeful and efficient. Yami briefly wondered if he was like that in other areas of his life before he shook his head violently and mentally slapped himself.

Down, boy! You don't even know if he's gay or Bi. Yami had never in his life gotten so worked up by meeting someone and he was extremely concerned about himself. You gotta play this cool, Yami. If you go ga-ga over Yugi any more than you have you're just going to creep him out. Yami thought to himself venomously. Yami was no stranger to women, nor men. Never in his life had he had anything more serious than a couple of dates before it turned into casual sex. Unfortunately, his job isn't something that allowed for a healthy dating life and that suited Yami just fine. Especially considering that nobody had caught his interest beyond that . . . at least, until now. Yugi gently set Yami's drink in front of him and also a tall glass filled with something clear, a lemon wedge bobbed merrily within the vessel.

"That one's for me," Yugi must've seen the burning question in Yami's eyes. "Just a water, I don't tend to drink alcohol when I'm working. Even if the regulars would love it." Yugi held up a hand as Yami fished for his wallet in his back pocket. "Yours is on the house, don't worry about it!"

Yami opened his mouth to protest as Yugi gracefully hopped over the bar to land in front of him. Yami's mouth dried up slightly as the man's scent briefly washed over him. He smelled like the sweetest of peaches mixed with the earthy tone of alcohol. Yami guessed that you'd always smell slightly of booze if you owned a bar. Yugi shot Yami another brilliant smile, his pale cheeks were slightly flushed from the movement as he took a sip from his glass.

Yami shook his head again as he reached for his wallet once more, "I insist, Yugi. I can't let you give me the drink."

"Well, I'm on the other side of the bar now, too little, too late." Yugi's eyes twinkled with mischief as he looked up at the young detective. "Where are you sitting?"

Yami gestured to the table his partner was sat at on the other side of the bar. Yugi followed his hand and his eyes lit up when he spied Ryou and Malik nestled within the booth. Yugi shoved Yami's whisky into the bronzed man's left hand before he promptly snatched up his free hand. Yugi pulled Yami behind him like a kite as he made his way to the booth. Yami was surprised at the young owner's forwardness, not that he was complaining. Yami was immensely enjoying the feel of the small man's hand being encased in his own. All too soon, Yugi came to an abrupt stop in front of the booth that housed their friends all-too-soon. Yami had to make a conscious effort to not let his disappointment show when Yugi released his hand to wave at everyone cheerfully.

"Hey guys!" Yugi set down his water on the table and spread his arms wide, Yami wondered what the hell the small man was doing.

"YUGI!" Ryou and Malik cried in unison. Malik was sat on the edge of the booth with Ryou next to him and the two men scrambled out of their seats to almost barrel the small man over in a bear hug.

Yugi merely laughed and patted their backs as his two friends attempted to squeeze the life out of him. Yami took a sip of his whiskey as his eyes met with Bakura's. Bakura merely shook his head at his fiancé's antics as he smiled knowingly at his partner. Yami resisted the urge to roll his eyes, clearly the white-haired man had taken note of Yugi's hand clasped within his own. Yami slid into the booth next to Bakura whilst Ryou and Malik forced Yugi in between them on the opposite side.

"The place is looking great as usual, Yugi!" Ryou gushed. "It's packed!"

Yugi rubbed the back of his neck self-consciously. "I think that has a lot to do with Mana, a lot of people followed her over from her last place."

Yami's face twisted a bit at the mention of Mana's last steady gig. The place was a hovel and the manager never really stopped the patrons groping the singers or anything. Yami did take some pleasure when Mana's boyfriend, Mahado, punched a drunken guy for grabbing Mana's ass. Yugi seemed to notice Yami's expression as he met Yami's gaze with concern shimmering within his amethyst orbs.

"Mana's last place was not so good, huh?" Yugi smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, if anyone does anything I'll ask Honda to toss them out."

Yami returned Yugi's smile with one of his own. Before he could ask Yugi anything further, Ryou and Malik pulled Yugi into conversation. Yami was steadfastly ignoring Bakura, who was discreetly jabbing his thigh under the table.

"Atemu," Bakura hissed suddenly in Yami's ear, making the crimson-eyed man jump. "Why don't you ask him out?"

"What?" Yami kept his voice low so the others wouldn't hear him. "I met him like five minutes ago!"

Bakura raised an eyebrow as he crossed his arms over his chest. "I've seen you make people putty in your hands in less time than that."

"Well . . . he's Ryou's friend."

"So?" Bakura urged.

"He's Mana's boss."

"So?" Bakura repeated, a wicked smile crossed his face as he leaned into Yami's personal space. "Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever seen you make googly eyes at anyone before. Whenever you hit on anyone, you're in control."

"What's your point?" Yami said as he took a sip of his whiskey.

"My point is, my dear, sweet, Yamir." Bakura looked smug as he met his friend's gaze. "I think you really like the half-pint and your suave routine has gone well out the window."

Yami choked a little on his whiskey at Bakura's comment. A blush spread across his cheeks like wildfire but his protests died in his throat as a voice sounded behind him.

"Yami!"

Yami slowly turned to the man behind him, and his face lit up like a freaking Christmas tree. The man who stood expectantly next to the table was tall, unbelievably tall. His brown hair lightly brushed his shoulders and was combed to perfection. A pair of wire-rimmed glasses were balanced on his aquiline nose, his light brown eyes were twinkling merrily as he grinned at the young detective. He wore a simple pair of brown trousers, a white shirt and a black blazer. Yami stood up from the booth and embraced him warmly. This was Mahado, Yami's childhood best friend and Mana's long-term boyfriend.

"Glad you made it Yami!" Mahado said cheerfully, he clapped Yami on the shoulder as the two men sunk back into the booth. "Mana was so excited when she said you were coming. It's been too long."

"It's been about a year since I last saw you both," Yami said with a look of slight regret on his face. "I'm sorry."

"Hey, you can't help that you've been busy with your promotion." Mahado said, kindly. "Plus, her last place was a dive so I don't think you missed much anyway."

Yugi waved cheerfully at Mahado from across the table, who gladly returned the wave. Yami felt his stomach twist at Yugi's earnest greeting. The young owner was absolutely adorable. His eyes were sparkling with happiness as he laughed and joked with his two friends. Yugi caught Yami's gaze for a moment and it felt like the world slowed down for them. The lights began to dim and Yami pried his eyes away from the Little One to force his attention onto the stage as Mana made her appearance. Mahado straightened up next to him, his face showing pride for his long-term girlfriend.

Yami had to admit that his cousin looked beautiful. Her long brown hair was as un-tameable as always, it artfully spiked in different directions. Mana learned a long time ago that trying to do anything but lean into the spikey tresses would always end in disaster. Her tanned skin seamed to glow in the low lights of Millennium, her emerald eyes gleamed with wonder and excitement. They were lined with black liquid eyeliner which only seemed to make them pop more. She wore a black ruffled top that hung off her narrow shoulders, it was tucked into a black leather pencil skirt that hugged her figure perfectly. Yami smothered a laugh as he noticed, in typical Mana-fashion, that she wore her heavy leather military boots instead of heels. Knowing his cousin, that was probably a sensible choice considering Yami had seen her walk into doors and trip over her own feet on multiple occasions. Mana was currently fiddling with the microphone stand; her vibrant eyes briefly fell on Yami and Mahado and she discreetly waved at them as soft music began to play. Mana took a deep breath as the melody began to swell before she opened her mouth and began to sing.

Her voice was hauntingly beautiful as it rose and fell to the swell of the music. As Yami looked around, he noticed that nearly every eye in the house was riveted to his cousin. To his shock, even Bakura was paying attention to Mana's performance. The same Bakura that refused to have even the radio on in the car because it annoyed him. He knew that Mana could sing like an angel but since he had last seen her perform, she had definitely improved a lot. It seemed like no effort for Mana as she belted out powerful notes, one after another, it was like breathing.

"She's gotten so good." Yami whispered to Mahado who didn't reply. His brown eyes were trained on his girlfriend as she sang her heart out.

Yami chuckled at his childhood friend, his eyes flicked away from Mahado only to clash with vibrant amethyst. Yami couldn't tear his attention away from Yugi this time as Mana started up her second song, a hauntingly beautiful number with softer tones. Without breaking eye contact, Yami reached down and took a sip of his whiskey. Yugi briefly licked his lips and Yami shifted in his seat, his trousers suddenly a little too tight. Man, what was this beautiful little specimen doing to him! A slow smile crept across Yami's face, a warm feeling bubbled in Yami's stomach as Yugi blushed slightly and looked down at the table – it was plainly obvious with Yugi's pale skin. Yami was suddenly very thankful for his tanned complexion so his own flushes were hidden slightly from the Little One.

The only one who seemed to notice the exchange between them was the last person that Yami wanted to see, Bakura. He could see his knowing smile from the corner of his eye, he was going to get it later from his partner, he just knew it. Mana's performance ended all too soon and the patrons of Millennium rose to their feet in applause as soon as the final note left her lips. Mana stood there, blinking slowly in shock on the stage before a large smile spread across her face. She bowed and waved to the crowd before she excitedly bounced off the stage and dashed towards Yami's booth. Mahado was on his feet in an instant, enveloping her in a tight hug as he spun her around in celebration. Mana squealed in excitement before Mahado set her back on her feet, giggling.

"You were so great, sweetie!" Mahado beamed as he leaned down to kiss her cheek.

"Thank you!" Mana was practically vibrating with excitement. Her eyes lit up once more as she spied Yami climbing his way out of the booth. "Yami!" She yelled before she threw herself at him.

Yami winced at how tightly Mana was hugging him. His arms flowed around her petite frame as he hugged her back.

"I'm so happy you made it!" Mana babbled, her eyes shining. She released her cousin as turned to look at Yugi. "I told you my boss would take good care of you!"

Yugi rubbed the back of his neck once more as he laughed, "I didn't do anything but make him a drink, Mana. You did great tonight though; I think you're going to be really popular here."

Mana launched into conversation with Yugi, Ryou, and Malik. Mahado hovered behind his girlfriend as she spoke enthusiastically to the three males. Yami drained the rest of his whiskey as Bakura slithered out of the booth and yanked him away by his arm just as Yami set his glass back onto the table.

"I saw what you were doing," Bakura hissed. "Are you going to ask him out now?"

"I don't know what you're talking about," Yami hissed back as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Don't be a fucking idiot, Atemu. It's obvious that short-stack over there has the hots for you too." Bakura growled.

"Stop calling him names!" Yami snapped. "I can't ask him out, this is a great place for Mana to work. I can't cause her any problems."

"Listen, Ryou has spoken about Yugi a lot to me since they've been good friends since high school. There is no way, no way, Yugi would turf Mana out if anything happened between you." Bakura flicked Yami hard in the forehead. "Stop being an idiot and just think about it." Bakura threw over his shoulder as he stalked back to the booth.

Yami rubbed his abused forehead as he sighed. He couldn't deny that he was attracted to the small club owner and he would love to learn more about him. Maybe he should take the risk and ask him out? Yami bit his lip as butterflies exploded in his stomach, what if Yugi said no? What the hell was wrong with him today? Yami never had an issue asking anyone out before!

That's because you really like him. Yami thought to himself.

Yami took a deep breath and approached the booth once more. Yugi was no longer nestled between Ryou and Malik. Mana was sat on the edge of the booth next to Malik, talking animatedly. Mahado and Bakura seemed to be having a casual conversation. As Yami approached he took note that there were fresh drinks on their table, clearly Yugi had gone back to the bar in Yami's absence. He didn't greet his friends as he approached, instead he grabbed the new glass of whiskey and knocked back the whole thing in one large gulp. Yami ignored the question in Bakura's eyes as he turned away, his crimson eyes scanning the space for the little owner. He found Yugi tucked behind the bar once more, talking to a tall woman with short brown hair and wide blue eyes. Yami walked over quickly on stiff legs, wanting to speak with Yugi before he lost his nerve.

As he approached, the tall woman nudged Yugi with her elbow, a knowing smile on her face. Yugi turned and blushed slightly when he saw Yami stop in front of him at the bar. This was his chance, he had to lay on some charm instead of being the bumbling idiot that he had been in front of Yugi this whole time.

"I'll leave you two to it." The woman said mischievously before she began to back away.

"Anzu," Yugi hissed as she laughed before turning away to serve a customer. Yugi sighed and turned his attention back to Yami. "Hi Yami, what can I do for you?"

Yami leaned one elbow onto the bar, his hand cupped his face as he looked Yugi up and down in appreciation. Yugi was one hell of a specimen and Yami felt confidence harden his stomach against the nervousness he felt.

"Well, I missed you back at the table and there was something I wanted to talk to you about." Yami purred, happiness bubbled in his chest as pink dusted across Yugi's face once more.

"Me? You missed me?" He squeaked as he pointed a slim finger to his chest. "Why?"

"Well, I wanted to ask if you'd like to go out with me sometime?" Yami held his breath slightly as he waited for Yugi's reaction.

Yugi's eyes widened so much that Yami was slightly concerned that they might fall out of his head. The blush that dusted his nose deepened and seemed to extend past the choker that encircled his swan-like neck. Yami briefly wondered if his blush extended the whole way down his chest before he shook his head harshly. He had to stop thinking like that before his trousers got tight again.

"Yami," Yami's eyes flickered back to Yugi's face as he spoke. "Please tell me you are not joking with me right now?"

"I'm definitely not joking, Little One." Yugi flushed more at the nickname, "I'm being as serious as a heart attack."

"Well, in that case, I'd love to go out with you." Yugi smiled brightly. Yami's heart thundered in his chest as Yugi smoothly whipped out a pen from behind the bar and wrote on a napkin before sliding it across the bar to Yami. "Call me. Obviously, I work late nights so I'm more likely to answer the phone in the afternoon."

Yami winked at Yugi, causing him to flush in pleasure once more. "Alright cutie, I'll be seeing you again soon." Yami purred before he walked away, clutching his prize against his chest.

Yami stole a look at the napkin and noticed that below his mobile number, Yugi had signed his name dotting the 'I' with a heart. Yami turned back to look at Yugi behind the bar, a small smile crept along his face as he waved to his Little One from across the room. Yugi shyly returned his wave, a knowing smile on his face.

Yami knew at that moment, enamoured by Yugi's sweet smile, that he would do everything to make Yugi his and his alone.