Blue-Eyed Beauty

by DragonGoddess629

Seto Kaiba expected perfection, while Lizette Kawasaki just wanted a job. Her life is turned upside down when she becomes the CEO's assistant. Everything starts professionally but soon escalates into something more. How long will it take for these two to realize that they were meant to be? Something that's been in the works for almost five thousand years.

10. Chapter 10

Chapter Ten

A Special Birthday

A/N: Our longest chapter yet at 15,729 words. So…enjoy this lengthy chapter and let me know what you want to see next. Should they confess already? Or should I make you suffer and wait? :)

Disclaimer: Yu-Gi-Oh! does not belong to me. I only own Lizette and other OCs. Any chapter image I used has been found through Google, and I take no credit for it. Everything Yu-Gi-Oh! related rightfully belongs to Kazuki Takahashi.

~ oOo ~

LIZETTE

The emails continued over the next two weeks. I received an email every day I worked on the paperwork for the financial discrepancy, which was nearly every single day. I also saved a hard copy of each email in my binder for safekeeping. I had no idea how to uncover who sent this email or where it came from, but I would find out. Some emails stated that I wouldn't find what I was seeking, while others were threatening, providing details about how I would suffer if I continued my search. I didn't fear these emails.

So, I continued my pursuit to find this asshole.

I could cover the amount this person had extracted from the departments in all the paperwork I had. Going back almost two years, this individual took roughly several billion yen altogether. All that money was just gone. Poof. Lost for eternity. From what I could see, it hadn't been deposited into any other account belonging to KaibaCorp. So, where did the money go?

Sitting at my desk, I growled. I had been staring at the same paper for almost an hour. Scratching my head, I was at a dead end. There was nothing further I would find from this paperwork. At this point, it wasn't the departments I needed more information on; it was the company's employees. I would first need to look into the profiles of the heads of each department before I trickle down to the employees. But I didn't know if Mr. Kaiba would grant me such access. Until I was forced to ask for such access, I would need to exhaust all information I could grab. Even then, what else was I going to find? I had an amount, and I could track it across all departments inside the company, but I could not trace where it was now. Because, according to my findings, the money was gone.

I sighed, dropping my head into my hands.

It was then that the ding of the elevator caught my attention.

"Liz! Liz!"

I glanced upward to see Mokuba rush out of the elevator straight to my desk, engulfing me in a tight bear hug. Hugging the small boy back, I patted his head. "Hi to you, too, Mokuba." He chuckled, giving me a toothy grin. "How was school today?" From my peripheral, I could see Roland walk to my desk, Mokuba's backpack in his hands. He offered me a wave, which I returned.

"School was great! But guess what? I passed my math test with almost a perfect score!"

"No way!" The grin on my face couldn't be larger. I high-fived the young boy, laughing all the way, but that wasn't enough. I pulled the boy into my arms, holding him tightly as I said, "I'm so proud of you, Mokuba!"

"Liz! You're squishing me!" Though he laughed all the same. Letting him go, I ruffled his head as Mokuba brushed my hand away. "My teacher said I'm doing better in math, and it wouldn't be like that without your help!"

Roland stepped in. "His teacher asked me what changed, and I told him that Mokuba now had a tutor. Are you helping Mokuba with other subjects, too? Because he was asking about that as well."

I nodded. "It's mostly math, but I'm also helping with English, seeing as I'm bilingual. Why? Is it helping?" My stare moved between Mokuba and Roland, who both nodded.

"Indeed, it has. His teacher wanted me to commend you for your help. He's noticed a drastic difference with his work. He's improving wonderfully, according to him."

The way Mokuba beamed at Roland was heartwarming. "I'm glad I can be of some assistance, but Mokuba's the one doing the work." I ruffled his bushy hair again. "As long as you keep working hard, you'll be unstoppable."

"You think so?"

"I know so."

Roland cleared his throat, dropping Mokuba's backpack beside my desk. "Is Mr. Kaiba available?"

Quickly glancing at his calendar, I nodded. "He doesn't have any appointments, so he should be good. Want me to call and ask?"

"Yes, please."

"Roland," I said, eyeing him carefully. "Is everything ok?"

The man's cheeks turned red. Casting his gaze aside, he scratched his cheek. "I-I was hoping to request some time off. It's my wife's birthday this weekend, and I wanted to take her on a getaway trip."

My smile was immediate. "Oh, that's a lovely gesture! Give me a moment." I dialed my boss's number, who answered on the second ring.

"Yes, Ms. Kawasaki?"

"Sir, Roland's here to see you. Do you have a moment?"

"For Roland, of course. Send him in, please."

"Yes, sir." Dropping the phone, I nodded toward the door. "You can see him."

He tapped my shoulder. "Appreciate it, Liz."

He was finally calling me by my name, and I was thankful. I watched the suited man walk into the office before turning to Mokuba. The child was grinning from ear to ear. Leaning forward, I tapped his nose. "And what evil secret are you hiding?"

The child quickly glanced back at the office doors before moving around the room, as if he was looking for other people. With no one around, he moved closer. "Can you keep a secret, Liz?"

"Hmm, depends on the secret, but you can trust me. Are you wanting to spill?" Mokuba bobbed his head furiously. "Ok then, what secret is it?"

"It's brother's birthday this Saturday!" The child was nearly squealing.

"Oh? Is it really?" I had no idea Mr. Kaiba's birthday was so soon. "Is it Saturday?"

"Yes! But, but…!" His smile faded to a frown. "I don't have a present for big brother!"

I thought for a moment before snapping my fingers. "Well, we're supposed to have a tutoring session this Saturday, right?" Mokuba nodded. "Want me to take you shopping? I can get your brother something, too."

His eyes widened at that. "Would…would you really do that?"

"Of course I will, sweetie. We'll have to lie a little to your brother, but I can pick you up early, and we can get some lunch? How does that sound?"

He jumped forward so quickly that his body was a blur. "That would be awesome! Thank you, thank you!"

I smoothed his hair, loving Mokuba's reaction. He was such a sweet, innocent child, and I wanted to do whatever I could to bring a smile to his face. Standing, I grabbed his regular chair and brought it beside me. "Do you have homework to finish?"

"Yep!"

"Alright, let's get that done, and then you can draw, or I can print you something."

We fell into our usual routine. Mokuba used the far end of my desk to work on his homework as I milled through emails and paperwork. There were more contracts Mr. Kaiba wanted me to analyze to determine which we should consider and which we should deny. I worked as diligently as possible, but my other assignment was at the forefront of my mind. I'd searched the ins and outs of every department. What else was I to do? Should I research the financial documents for the entire company or…?

No.

My eyes widened.

That was it. The next person I needed to interview was Mr. Yoshinori himself. Seeing as how he was the CFO for the company, he would have a record of every financial paperwork, distribution, deposit, or withdrawal within the company. But I groaned. There was no way Mr. Yoshinori would agree to meet with me. His distaste for me was evident, mainly because I was an assistant. But I needed the records he oversaw. If the paper trail from each department was coming up nowhere, I needed to go to the trail's end and search there. And as of right now, the end of the trail led to the CFO.

When Mr. Kaiba's door opened, Roland and my boss walked out. Upon seeing his brother, Mokuba burst from his seat, ran toward the male, and wrapped him in a bear hug. Mr. Kaiba merely smiled, causing me to grin as well. My boss must've sensed I was staring, as he took the moment to glance upward, catching my eye. Casting my sight away, I could stop staring, but I couldn't stop the rush of heat from burning my face.

"I appreciate your generosity, Mr. Kaiba." My ears caught Roland's words.

Mr. Kaiba waved his hand. "Roland, you do enough for me and Mokuba; the least I can do is grant you several days for your wife. Will you be taking Sakura with you?"

"No," Roland said, though he sounded sad. "She'll be staying with her grandma. This weekend is just for me and my wife."

I couldn't help but giggle. "You're such a sweetheart, Roland."

The redness was on his cheeks before he could speak. "I certainly try, Liz. My wife deserves it."

"Well, I'd say you're going about it in a way that'll show her you care." Mokuba appeared back by my side. Mr. Kaiba and Roland shared more words before the right-hand man waved and exited the elevator.

Mr. Kaiba turned toward me. "And what have you two been doing out here?"

"I'm working." Pointing at his brother, I said, "This one's been doing his homework the entire time."

He nodded, staring down at his brother. "Are you almost done, Mokuba?"

"I have half a worksheet left!"

"Good job." I could see the love for Mokuba in my boss's eyes. Clearly, he cared deeply for his brother, and I knew this man would do anything for the child. "And you, Ms. Kawasaki? Have you gone through the contracts?"

"I'm almost done, actually. I have…" Counting the remaining papers, I replied, "I have two left, and they'll be done soon."

"Are any promising?"

"Maybe half?"

Mr. Kaiba shrugged. "More than I thought. Anyways…" The way he spoke had me lifting my head. "About Saturday? Since Roland's going on a trip, I'll drop off Mokuba for your session."

Then, Mokuba smirked at me, trying to hide it from his brother.

"Actually, about that." I swiveled my chair to face my boss. "Would it be ok if I pick him up? With all the work he's improved in, I thought about taking him to lunch or something for a reward."

Mr. Kaiba nudged his brother. "What do you think, Mokuba? Would you like that?"

He nodded furiously. "Yes! I love hanging out with Liz!"

A gentle smile slowly appeared on Mr. Kaiba's face, completely melting my heart. "You heard him, Ms. Kawasaki. Apparently, he loves being with you."

"And what's not to like?" I joked. "I'm pretty special if you ask me, and I'm kinda good at video games."

There was a short moment of silence between us as Mr. Kaiba smiled. It seemed he was about to say something when Mokuba beat him. "Seto, she's awesome at Minecraft!"

This time, Mr. Kaiba ruffled his brother's hair. "So I've heard," he stated. "Hey, Mokuba. Himari will be here soon to pick you up. She'll take you home."

"Not Roland?" I asked, curious at that.

But he shook his head. "Nah, I decided to give Roland the rest of the week off. He deserves some time with his family."

I smiled. "That's very sweet, Mr. Kaiba. I'm sure he appreciates that."

"He better." I smirked at his words, knowing he was jesting all the while. It was then his cell phone rang. "This is Kaiba," he picked up. "Ah, you're here? Ok, I'll bring him down." He hung up, pocketing the device. He ruffled his brother's hair, who swatted his hand. "Himari's here, Mokuba. You ready?"

"Yep!" The boy packed his belongings, tossing the backpack across his shoulders.

Mr. Kaiba knocked on my desk, a feature I noticed he liked doing. "I'll be right back." I nodded, watching as they left down the elevator.

I sat there alone, my attention focused on the documents before me. I was so close to figuring out where this money went yet so far away. I knew in my gut that I had two choices: contact IT or call Noda Yoshinori himself.

I was left with no choice, so I dialed a number into the phone, holding the receiver tightly against my ear. The phone rang several times before the other person answered.

"This is Noda."

Swallowing, I said, "Mr. Yoshinori, this is Ms. Kawasaki. Do you have a moment?"

"…why on earth are you calling me?"

I could feel the muscles in my face twitch with annoyance. In the calmest voice I could manage, I said, "Would you be willing to set aside some time so I could speak with you? I have some financial documents I need your opinion on."

I swear I could hear the grin in his voice. "Ah, so the great Ms. Kawasaki wants something of me. Why should I give you the time of day?" He dared to ask.

"Because I'm doing my job, and per your job requirements, you would be doing yours as well." I bit my tongue.

"Oh, so you know exactly per what my job contains?"

"I have some knowledge, yes."

"Must be nice thinking you know everything, Ms. Kawasaki."

"I don't," I stated, venom probably leaking through my words. "But I can at least admit when I'm wrong." He began speaking when I interrupted him. "Mr. Yoshinori, I am asking politely. Do you, or do you not, have some free time?"

"For you? No. I don't," he responded quickly - too quickly.

"I figured," my voice was tiny. "That's why I'll go straight to Mr. Kaiba when he returns, letting him know you refused to help me in my time of need."

He was seething. "You wouldn't."

"Oh, yes, I would. I have asked politely. Twice, if I may add, and you have denied both. I require some intel only you may have; I need this time to speak with you." Leaning back in my chair, it was now my time to sneer. "So, what'll it be, Mr. Yoshinori? Will you schedule me in, or should I speak to your boss?"

He was considerably silent compared to the man I knew he was. Then, there was typing in the background. He grumbled, "I can schedule you in about twenty minutes."

"That is fantastic. I'll be there shortly." Smiling, I added, "Thank you for your cooperation, Mr. - "

He hung up before I could answer.

"What a fucking prick," I hung up the phone.

"Who's a prick?"

I jumped in my seat, finally noticing Mr. Kaiba walking toward my desk from the elevator. I will never understand how he can sneak up on me so easily.

"Uhh…" I didn't know how to answer. Should I be honest or lie? I chose the truthful option. "Mr. Yoshinori," my voice was blunt.

To my surprise, my boss chuckled. "No surprise there." He leaned against my desk. "What'd he do this time?"

I sighed, crossing my arms in annoyance. "I requested to schedule a meeting, and he refused."

Mr. Kaiba narrowed his eyes. "I'm sorry. He refused to see you?"

"At first." Feeling comfortable with the conversation, I grinned. "Then I threatened that I would tattle to you. Ha! That's when he said he'd meet me today."

"Would you have honestly rattled to me?" My boss was failing to hide his smirk.

I shrugged. "Maybe. Or…maybe not. But he doesn't need to know that."

"Ms. Kawasaki…" Mr. Kaiba laughed openly, softly, but it was there. "Well then, what did you want to meet with him for?"

"I…" I held up my financial documents. "I swear I'm at the tail end of my investigation. The last person I think could help would be Mr. Yoshinori, the CFO. He handles most, if not all, of the company's financial holdings. He, above anyone else, knows where large amounts of money have gone."

My boss tilted his head back and forth in consideration. "You're thinking the problems that deep?"

"Unfortunately, I do. None of the department leads know where the money they are missing has gone. And with the interviews and discussions I've had with them, it doesn't seem likely they would do this." I then held up a different piece of paper. This was my handwriting showing all the amounts that were taken from the departments and when. "Besides, money's been taken from almost all departments. No simple lead could do this. It runs deeper."

Extending his hand, Mr. Kaiba silently requested to see the paper. He scanned it momentarily, his eyes focusing on the numbers, my drawings, and my notes in the margins. "Ah, so this is what's taken you so long." He gave it back. "You've done extensive work with this, haven't you?"

"I mean…you did give me a pretty serious assignment. You were certain something financially was happening in your company, and I've found it. I just need to find the culprit."

"Well, it looks like you're definitely on to something." A ding popped into the air as my boss glanced at his phone. "Ah, I have to take this." He knocked against my desk, something that's become routine for my boss to do around my workstation. "Keep me posted on what Noda says. If he denies you information, I can get you what you need."

My smile was gentle. "I appreciate that, Mr. Kaiba. I'm heading to his office, but I'll have my phone. Message me if you need anything."

"Will do." He then disappeared into his office.

Grabbing my folder with the necessary documents, I went to the elevator, signaling to travel down several floors. Stepping inside, I breathed deeply, trying to calm my nerves. I did not like meeting with the CFO, and the idea that I was to meet him alone sent a chill crawling down my spine. It's not that Mr. Yoshinori wasn't the best at his job; from what I could tell, he was great at it. But his character was horrible; just…ugh. I wanted nothing to do with him. He was condescending and treated me like shit.

And before I knew it, the elevator dinged for my level. Stepping out, I maneuvered to Mr. Yoshinori's secretary's desk. She lifted her head.

"Ah, Ms. Kawasaki! How can I help you?" She smiled brightly. Ah, someone in this department is nice.

"Hi. Uh, Mr. Yoshinori was able to schedule a meeting with him? Is he still available?"

She took several seconds to click on her computer. "Oh! I see, yes, he does. Give me a moment." She picked up the phone. "Mr. Yoshinori, Ms. Kawasaki is here…? Ok, I'll send her in." She placed it down. "He's ready; you can step in."

I tilted my head in her direction. "Thank you, I appreciate it."

I stepped through the door and was instantly shocked. I did my best to keep a neutral face, but it was difficult. The office was a pigsty. Several articles of clothing were thrown over the chairs, loose papers and stacks were all over the desk and floor, and empty cups and wrappers were scattered about. I cringed inwardly.

Mr. Yoshinori didn't even glance up from his computer. "Ah, if it isn't Ms. Kawasaki." There was so much disdain in his voice.

"Mr. Yoshinori." I tried keeping an even tone, glancing around the room to see where I would sit. Deciding against it, I moved to stand before the CFO's desk. I stood for several moments while the male typed away on his device. Finally, after four silent minutes, he glanced at me, giving me his attention. "Thank you for giving me this time - "

"You have five minutes."

I swallowed thickly. "E-excuse me?"

He held up his hand. "I said you have five minutes. So, you better start talking." He grinned, and all I saw was a face full of evil.

I was losing control as my eye twitched. "You…couldn't even spare me at least fifteen?"

He tapped his watch. "Clocks ticking, Ms. Kawasaki." Oh the audacity of this asshole! Clearing my throat, I pulled out the paper with all the withdrawals and deposits from each department. I handed it to him, who took it and glanced at it. "What is this?"

"I am investigating a financial discrepancy throughout the company. Over the past two years, there have been numerous deposits and withdrawals from each department throughout the company, but there's no trace of the money. I'm hoping to get to the bottom of this. Do you have any paperwork or a program that tracks such financial information? Such as who would have made such transactions?"

"Maybe."

Ok, his answers are way too quick.

Not knowing how else to answer, I asked, "Could I please see the information?"

Mr. Yoshinori leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms as he glared at me through slits. "Why should I comply with such a request?"

"Hmm." I copied his stance and crossed my arms, too. "Mr. Kaiba has assigned this task to me directly. Refusing my request would be refusing him, your boss," I emphasized.

He narrowed his eyes even more. "Damn, you have an attitude."

"Focus on my request, Mr. Yoshinori. I want to do the best I can." Stepping forward, I placed my hands, almost slamming, onto the edge of his desk. "I don't think you understand my request, so let me spell it for you. Someone is stealing money from the company, Noda Yoshinori, and I will find out who the culprit is." Leaning back, I inhaled slowly, taking a moment to think about this male.

Why was he so apprehensive about helping me? And what was the attitude he continued to give me? What the hell had I ever done to him specifically?

Wait. Forget that. Why wasn't he more concerned about what I just stated? The truth was that money was being stolen, and the proof was in the trail. If it were someone from outside the company, they would steal one large amount and then bail. They wouldn't transfer different amounts over two years. This only confirms it. The culprit of this transgression works for KaibaCorp.

And Mr. Yoshinori is my first suspect.

"And you think my programs have a record of what you're searching for?"

"Yes, I do. You are the CFO for KaibaCorp; all financial records should be stored under your order. Why would I go to IT for a withdrawal or deposit?" I took a deep breath. "I know I'm on to something, Mr. Yoshinori, and I will find the person responsible, and they will be held accountable."

I blinked. What was that?

Mr. Yoshinori, he…by the end of my statement, had he looked…fearful? His eyes widened slightly before returning to normal. Or had I imagined that?

The man shook his head, returning to his computer. "I cannot help you, Ms. Kawasaki."

"Mr. Yoshinori…!"

He sharply turned back to me. "If you will have an attitude, you can speak with Mr. Kaiba. Now, get out of my office." When I didn't budge, he slammed a fist into his desk. "Now!"

Snatching the paper from his hand, I turned and stormed out, almost slamming the door behind me - almost. Remembering where I was, I smiled at his assistant as she waved. What the hell was I to do? The one thing I wanted to do.

Tell Mr. Kaiba.

I mean, was it even tattling if he, himself, told me to speak with him if I needed something?

And right now, I definitely needed something.

I made it back to my desk in record time. Throwing myself into my chair, I groaned, rubbing a hand down my cheek. I'd been gone not even fifteen minutes, and I was exhausted. I dropped the papers onto the desk and stared. I stared at them, I stared at my computer, I stared across the hall.

Ding!

My eyes landed on my computer again. It was an email. When I opened the application, the notification indicated a new email. And what do you know, another email from the asshole who's been sending me those threatening messages.

Subject: STOP BEING SUCH A BITCH

I HEARD YOU LOUD AND CLEAR. YOU SAY YOU'LL FIND THE CULPRIT, BUT HOW WILL YOU DO SO? THERE IS NO EVIDENCE YOU HAVE THAT WILL HELP YOU WITH THIS SEARCH. IT IS MEANINGLESS. IF YOU VALUE YOUR LIFE, YOU'LL STOP NOW.

Like all the others, I printed this email as well, ensuring it was stamped with the date and time. I didn't appreciate the message or the language, but I was used to it by now, even if it was threatening my life. Placing it in the ever-growing binder of documents, notes, and emails, I closed the lid and laughed. Oh, if I can find the asshole responsible for stealing money…I don't know what I'd do, but I'd be happy.

I had about twenty emails, all with different messages, but all had the same concept: stop what you're doing.

I didn't want to stop what I was doing; that's the thing. But I will add that the timing of these emails is peculiar.

I suddenly straightened in my seat, hastily opening the binder again, and went to the first email I received just over two weeks ago. On a sticky note, I had written down the phone conversation I had with Mr. Yoshinori right before receiving that first email. I then glanced through the rest. Almost all of them had very similar notes, memos of times I spoke or met with the CFO.

Had the answer been in front of me this whole time?

I glanced at my computer. Just now, I had a meeting with Mr. Yoshinori, and mere moments after returning to my desk, I received another nasty email. Coincidence?

I think not.

I think Noda Yoshinori is a high suspect. He's snooped through these specific papers on my desk, been made aware of this project and what I've been doing, and seems reluctant to help me. He quickly denied my request for access to his programs.

Well, if he wants me to speak with Mr. Kaiba, so be it.

Stepping toward my boss's door, I gently knocked. A rough "Come in" sounded from the inside. Stepping through, I made my way toward the large desk on the opposite side, staying silent before Mr. Kaiba as he finished his typing. He needed several moments, but I patiently waited. Once he was done, he crossed his arms and stared at me. "What can I help you with, Ms. Kawasaki? Did you go see Nada?" I grimaced, and my boss must have noticed, for he grinned. "I'll take that as a yes, then."

"Oh, it was a visit, all right. You told me to see you if Mr. Yoshinori refused me access to his programs, yes?"

"I did. Why do you ask?" He raised an eyebrow in confusion.

"Because Mr. Yoshinori refused to help." Mr. Kaiba was about to speak, but I politely raised my hand. "He was extremely rude the entire meeting, and the moment I stepped inside, he said I had five minutes. I explained the situation as much as he would allow, going as far as to state that what I needed was most likely in his programs. But he dismissed me before I could say more, stating he couldn't help me." I smirked. "He stated that if I was to have an attitude with him, I should go to you for help."

"And here you are," my boss commented.

"Here I am."

Mr. Kaiba dropped his head into his heads and groaned. "What the hell am I going to do with him…"

"I can kick him in the ass, if you'd like." My boss peered at me through his fingers, and I merely shrugged. "You can't deny that he needs it."

He chuckled. "I…can't deny your words, Ms. Kawasaki." Pulling out a notepad from his drawer, Mr. Kaiba wrote something on the paper before handing it to me. I looked at it. There was a program name and the credentials to log in. "This is what you'll need. You are correct in that all financial documents are - should - be stored in that program. I only hope you can find what you're searching for."

"And this program is already on my computer?"

He nodded. "You just have to find it, but yes, it's installed. Want my help?"

I waved a hand. "Nah, I think I can handle it." I stared at the paper. "Will…will Mr. Yoshinori know I was sneaking in his program?"

He tilted his head. "His program? Oh, you misunderstand, Ms. Kawasaki. This is the company's program; he just uses it for his position. You have equal rights to use it as you need."

That response earned an evil grin from my lips. "This better have the answer I seek, because if not, then I'll have to call it quits."

"Then, what are you thinking? You honestly believe it's someone within the company?" He asked curiously.

I nodded. "I do. Based on my research, this seems too sophisticated for someone outside to do. Besides, if it were someone on the outside, they would have taken a one lump sum and disappeared, not withdraw and deposit numerous amounts over two years."

Mr. Kaiba considered my words as he tilted his head back and forth. "You make a fair argument." His phone began to ring as he glanced at the caller ID. He groaned. "Alright, I have to take this. Let me know if you have any questions." As he answered the phone, I bowed before leaving.

Stepping back to my desk, I placed the note with the credentials safely inside my drawer for safe keeping. I would work on finding those records later. I still had several contracts Mr. Kaiba wanted me to go over. I focused on that for the next hour, marking corrections here and there while making notes in the margins for future considerations. Mr. Kaiba asked me to pull any promising contracts we should consider. I appreciated that Mr. Kaiba trusted me, considering I'd only worked as his assistant for almost four months. That said a lot.

I smiled at that.

But my head shook as Mr. Kaiba's door opened.

"Yes, Mr. Kaiba?"

He looked sheepish as he said, "I need some lunch. Is it too much to ask for you to grab me something, please?"

"You do you realize you are my boss, yes? You don't have to ask. Just tell me what you want, and I'll go get it."

"But you said yourself I've never been as asshole to you. I'd rather not start now." Was he…did he just give me a puppy dog look?

Oh, that's fucking adorable.

That had me chuckling because he was right. "Well, ok, but only because you asked so nicely. What would the CEO of a big conglomerate want for lunch on a Wednesday?"

"I'm craving sushi."

"Huh. Really? That's different." Grabbing a pad and pen, I asked, "And what would you like specifically?" He gave me his order, and I wrote it down and repeated it to him to ensure I had it right. "Any particular place you prefer?"

"Yeah, there's a tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant called Hausu obu sushi."

"Oh, I've been meaning to go there. Emiko says they have the best gyoza."

"They do. Have you eaten? You can get whatever you want, like usual."

I rolled my eyes. "Will you ever let me buy lunch for you sometime?"

"Why? You sometimes bring me a homemade meal on Fridays. I call that the same."

My shoulders shrugged. "If you say so. Ok, so this restaurant. Where is it?"

"I'll text you the address. It's about a…twenty-minute drive?" Stepping forward, Mr. Kaiba pulled out the company card, the plastic square I was used to using by now, considering how many cups of coffee I'd purchased for the man.

I placed the card in my wallet, pushing my chair in as I stood. "I'll be swift. You are hungry, after all."

He tapped my desk. Seriously, why does he always do that? "I'd rather ensure you return safely, so take your time. I'm in no rush. I'm asking now because there will soon be a rush for a hole in the wall; the place is always busy."

"Then I shall return both safely and swiftly." Stepping away, I waved. "Let me know if there's anything else I can get you, boss."

"Thank you, Ms. Kawasaki. I appreciate it." Mr. Kaiba shot me a small smile, but I swore it was one of the sweetest ones I had seen on the man. And I had seen several in our time working together. Stepping into the elevator, I waited to be taken to the bottom floor to go toward the garage; my mind raced with everything I had to do this week.

Conduct more research and write more of my thesis.

Study for the test tomorrow.

Go to dinner with Emiko on Friday.

Pick up Mokuba on Saturday and go shopping.

I sighed, a frown etched on my face. My life will never be dull with everything I have going on. But I don't regret anything. I'm going to school to improve my future. I always go to dinners with my best friend. And despite not knowing him for that long, I would do anything for sweet, little Mokuba. I would gladly take him shopping for his brother's birthday if that's what he wanted.

Stepping through the first elevator, I entered the second that led to the garage, soon finding my car. As usual, I stood outside my door, calmly breathing in and out several times before stepping inside. Raising the volume of my music, once it connected to my phone, I drove through the garage, taking my time to get my boss his food.

I enjoyed this time alone. It wasn't that I didn't enjoy my job, but sometimes it's nice to drive around and listen to music without having something important to do. While driving, I focused on the tasks I would need to complete after returning to the office - the contracts and managing the financial program. Honestly, I might save that for tomorrow so I can focus solely on it. I relaxed at the thought.

I've been so stressed over the last two weeks from trying to finalize this concern. I wanted to do right by Mr. Kaiba and find the culprit. I've stated that I was close, and I knew I was. The taste of discovering who was embezzling and stealing money was right there, and I knew they were doing so because it was in the records from what I had found. And yet, nothing could be done before I discovered the last little bit of evidence I needed.

And so, I gripped the steering wheel tighter and inhaled deeply. It would do nothing to worry too much now.

Instead, I focused on this Saturday when I would pick up little Mokuba, and we would go on an adventure to lunch and find something for his brother's birthday. I wanted it to be special for both of them - for Mokuba because he loved his brother, but also for Mr. Kaiba. My boss deserved happiness and time away from work. He was at the office way too much, and most of the time on weekends. His birthday should be about him and only him.

I would do so, confident in my decision. I would help Mokuba find the perfect gift that would allow me to see the brilliant smile I've seen the man wear before. I wanted to see such a smile again; I craved it. Just thinking of such a smile made my heart beat faster.

But it didn't matter what I thought. Nothing would ever transpire between us. We were from two completely different worlds separated by unknown corporate policies that would prohibit us from being together because of our standings. But it wasn't just that. I want to think I've learned a little about my boss since I started working for him. He would never go for someone like me. Mr. Kaiba deserves the hand of the daughter of another CEO, someone who's grown and lived in the prestigious world of finances, business decisions, contracts, and wealth. I mean, my family had money growing up, but nothing compared to what Mr. Kaiba has.

So, my attraction to my boss was one-sided, and I was ok with that. I would adore him from afar and suffer from the love growing in my heart, realizing long ago that we may be compatible as employer and employee but not as a man and a woman in a romantic relationship. And I was perfectly fine with that.

At least, that's what I kept telling myself so I could still smile in front of him.

~ oOo ~

Saturday arrived before I knew it. I spent most of last night working and finalizing homework, especially my thesis. I finalized and edited chapter one and was now halfway through chapter two. Most of last night was spent working on that: conducting research, saving resources, and typing my life away while trying to prove my thesis to the educational business world. I was probably up until after midnight, but I didn't regret my decision. In doing so, I could entirely free my Saturday to be with Mokuba as long as he needed. In addition, I could also volunteer for longer this morning, and I wouldn't have to work on any homework tomorrow, meaning I had it free.

Suffering one night gave me two days of freedom, even if I was still busy. I call that a fucking win.

After going home, showering, and changing, I was almost at the Kaiba mansion. I texted Mr. Kaiba that I was on my way, and all he sent was the thumbs-up emoji. Just seeing that simple image on my phone had me laughing. Who the hell knew the prominent Mr. CEO of KaibaCorp used emojis? My only wish is that he would continue to do so with me and that it wasn't a one-time answer.

As I drove, I gazed at the small cluster of clouds with the beautiful sun shining. It was a cold but gorgeous day considering the weather we had yesterday. Yesterday, we had thundering weather with lightning and hail for most of the day, but today was the opposite. Most of the rain had dried, leaving small puddles here and there, but there was a crispness in the air. Maybe the universe knew today was my boss's birthday and wanted to treat him nicely. Regardless, Mokuba and I would enjoy this day together and surprise his brother later tonight.

Arriving at the front gate, I entered the passcode. I was surprised that Mr. Kaiba trusted me with something so personal that it allowed me to enter his home, so I waited for the gate to open. Pulling through, I admired the extensive grounds of beautiful grass, trees, and flowers. He, for sure, had a select team that cared for his garden; that was obvious. If this was the front, what was the back like? The drive from the gate to the door wasn't long, but I still stared. When he said he lived in a mansion, my boss wasn't kidding.

Is this house two or three stories?!

The driveway eventually met at the front double doors, which curved around to connect back to the driveway so anyone could drive in a circle rather than reverse and turn their vehicle around. A separate garage connected off to the side, where I assumed my boss's cars were.

And I thought my childhood home was a mansion. Damn.

Parking my car right by the front, I left, leaving my purse inside. There was a fucking gate with a passcode needed to enter; my purse was safe. Stepping to the door, I gingerly touched the doorbell and waited, the sound entering my ears from the inside. I waited several seconds, glancing around the area. There were several cameras I could see, and my inner child broke free as I waved at each one, not caring in the slightest. Was my boss watching? If so, was he laughing?

"Give me a moment, Ms. Kawasaki. I'll be right there." My boss's voice filtered through the doorbell, and I realized it was more high-tech than I thought. Considering who my boss was, I should have known. But it didn't take long before the door was opening and Mr. Kaiba appeared on the opposite side. He nodded at me, offering a slight lift of his lips. "Ms. Kawasaki, good morning."

I chuckled. "Isn't it technically almost noon? Should you be saying 'good afternoon'?"

The man shrugged. "Eh, either way works. You can come inside." He stepped aside, allowing me entrance. I was immediately floored. I thought the outside of the mansion was gorgeous, but the inside?

Holy shit.

The inside was more modern than I expected, with hints of Japanese culture. It was definitely designed after American houses. The front foyer had hardwood flooring, and several small bonsai trees sat on beautiful tables. Along the wall, one staircase led upstairs to a balcony that, I assumed, led to the second floor of the estate. The area beneath the balcony led forward, and two different hallways led in various directions. I could vaguely see into the back of the house through the open doorway before me, and I nearly gasped. There was even more space in the back!

Oh. Fucking shit.

When I turned to my boss, I couldn't tell if he noticed my shock. Smiling, I said, "You have a beautiful home, sir."

He nodded. "I appreciate that. I admit there's enough space we don't use since it's just the two of us here, but…Mokuba and I make do."

I wondered why he'd even live in a mansion if it were just him and his brother, but that would not be appropriate. Hell, they could afford it. If they desired to live in a mansion, then fine by me. Regardless, it was beautiful, just by the small area I was glancing at currently.

Mr. Kaiba held his hand out. "Here, I'll take you to Mokuba. We've finally had time to play games together, so it's been Minecraft all morning."

Following him through the hallway, I chuckled. "Oh, don't tell me you're bored of Minecraft already?"

He peered back and snickered, a mischievous glint in his eye. "With my brother? Never, Ms. Kawasaki." I swore my heart fluttered and died at how beautiful his expressions were.

We passed several rooms, the doors to which were closed. The hallway was an open design that connected to the main central room, which I noticed from the foyer. I had a question about the kitchen: How big and beautiful was it? I'd love to cook Mr. Kaiba a meal in his beautiful kitchen.

"Mokuba?"Mr. Kaiba called out, and I was pulled from my thoughts. We were now in a separate room, which I assumed was a gaming or living room; it could work for both. An enormous black L-shaped couch was along the wall, piled high with pillows and blankets. On the opposite wall hung a huge flat-screen TV connected to multiple consoles, including the Playstation 5 that Mokuba was, of course, playing Minecraft on. I snickered at the setup. The room was meant for playing games, and I could see myself falling onto the couch for days just playing whatever I desired.

A girl could get used to such a setup.

I whistled, glancing at my boss who, I found, had been watching me the entire time. "This is quite the setup you have. I am impressed."

He snickered again, and there went my heart once more. "I figured you would. KaibaCorp does aim to please."

I poke this arm. "Except this isn't KaibaCorp; this is your home. Remember that." My only answer was for the man to roll his eyes.

"Hi, Liz!" Mokuba quickly glanced at us before returning his attention to the game. He was farming, collecting wheat and watermelon from an impressive and extensive garden.

When he approached his brother, he said, "Alright, Mokuba. It's time to quit the game. Ms. Kawasaki's taking you to lunch, remember?"

"I do!" The boy said excitedly. Was that for the game or for me being here? "Let me just put everything away!"

I chuckled, knowing I was exactly like Mokuba when I was his age and was playing a game. My mom would enter the room and politely ask me to quit. I was only given two chances to quit my game. If my mom, heaven forbid my dad, had to enter my room a third time to ask me to stop, I knew the consequences. And my consequences were always severe in that I would lose my game for an undisclosed amount of time. I made that mistake maybe once or twice as a kid. Never again.

"Do you need anything before you leave?" Mr. Kaiba turned to me, but I shook my head.

"Nah, I think we're good. We're going to lunch wherever Mokuba wants to go."

"And you still won't let me pay?"

It was then my turn to roll my eyes. "Mr. Kaiba, we've had this discussion. If I'm the one treating your brother, I'm the one who will pay. Not you." I crossed my arms, more for comfort than annoyance. "Don't get me wrong, your offer is appreciated, but I want to do this for your brother. He deserves it with how much his grades have changed."

My boss copied my movements as we watched Mokuba pack all his gear away. "His teacher has called several times, stating how impressed he is with the changes. He thought it was my doing, but I told him it was all you." He chuckled. "Did I tell you that he asked me for your number?"

I peered at the man, raising an eyebrow. "My number? Why?"

"He thought you were a full-time tutor and wanted to see if you could assist other students in his class. When I told him you were my employee for the company, he was surprised, and then told me I should never fire you."

Wanting to push my luck, I asked, "Would you ever fire me?"

"Have you given me a reason to consider that option?" He questioned, fully turning to me as he asked.

"Not yet, I haven't," I snickered. "Admit it, though, I am your best employee that works directly under you."

The male cupped his chin. "Oh, Ms. Kawasaki, do you not remember? I am the CEO; all my employees work directly underneath me." The smile he gave could kill, I swear.

Countering, I said, "True, true, but, uh, how many of them are willing to cook you a homemade meal for your lunches on Friday? Who are willing, and will gladly, get you a coffee each time you ask, despite the time of day?" He was about to say something, but I quickly added, "Or!" And I chuckled at this. "Who has been more awesome than I to tutor your brother on the weekends?"

I had him there, and he knew it.

Raising his hands in defeat, my boss nearly sighed. "You know, Ms. Kawasaki, you delivered a compelling argument." Bowing to me slightly, I almost wavered. "I guess that means you are my best employee."

"Oh, stop, you're embarrassin' me," I mocked in my best Wakka voice.

Mr. Kaiba understood the assignment. "Ah, Wakka from Final Fantasy X. Nice choice of quote."

"Ah!" I smiled brightly. "Thank you for appreciating one of my favorite games!" A sudden tug on my shirt had me glance downward. It was Mokuba. In the time we were talking, Mokuba had quit the game and was standing next to me. "Oh, I'm sorry, Mokuba! Are you ready?" He quickly nodded. Staring at his brother, I said, "Well, I guess that means it's time to go!"

"I guess so," he ruffled his brother's head. He led us back to the foyer, opening the door for us. "Mokuba, you be on your best behavior, alright?"

Mokuba hugged his brother. "I'm always good when I'm with Liz. Aren't I?" He glanced upward at me as I nodded.

"He's always the sweetest, Mr. Kaiba. You have nothing to worry about."

Mr. Kaiba seemed to appreciate my answer as he returned his brother's hug. "Good. Keep me posted about when you'll be back. I might have to go into the office, but I shouldn't be that late. If…" He seemed sheepish to ask. "If I have to go to the office and Mokuba wants to come home, could you watch him?"

Oh, this might actually make things sweeter.

"Of course, doesn't bother me. Mokuba, are you ok with that, or would you rather go back to my place?"

The younger Kaiba brother and I were thinking on the same wavelength. "Nope, I'd like to come back here." I nodded at that, and so did his brother.

"I guess that's settled. You two have a good time. Bo good, Mokuba."

The young boy seemed annoyed at that. "I will!" He said nicely, though there was a tint of irritation.

Mr. Kaiba watched from the doorway as we entered my car, but he didn't enter the house until we passed the gate. The moment I pulled out of the driveway, I glanced at Mokuba. "Alright…where to first? Shopping or lunch?"

He was immediate with his answer. "Lunch! I want a full belly when we go shopping!"

I chuckled. "Then lunch it is. Well, even though I told your brother this lunch is your reward as a ruse, what would you like?"

He sat for several seconds in thought. "I want…you know, a burger sounds good. Know any good place that has good burgers?"

"Do I know…? Psh." I smiled in his direction. "Do I know a good place that has burgers? Please, Mokuba, you're talking to the queen who loves burgers. I've got you."

Leaving the mansion complex, I drove across town to the best restaurant in the city. At home, we would have called such a restaurant a 'burger joint, ' but I doubt Mokuba would understand the reference. Thinking such a thought had me missing the United States. The places and the people I left behind made me sad on occasion, though I was better off now, with it having been roughly four years since leaving the States and becoming a citizen of Japan.

"You're quiet, Liz."

"Oh, um…" I bit my lip, not wanting to discuss that part of my past. No offense to Mokuba, but he wouldn't understand. "Sorry, kiddo. Just thinking about what I'm gonna eat."

"Is this place that good?"

I smirked at the boy. "I did tell you that I was the queen of burgers. I know a good, greasy burger when I see it, and trust me, you'll love this place."

He was nearly bouncing in his seat. "If you say I will, then I know it'll be good." The amount of trust this young child had in me was sometimes astounding. I would never take that for granted. Ever. Mokuba did not deserve that.

We drove for about twenty-ish minutes across the city. There was more traffic than expected, and driving to our destination took longer than I would have preferred. But we snagged a spot right by the doors when we finally arrived. I held the door open for Mokuba as he stepped through, waiting for me by the front as we approached the young male behind the counter.

Tapping Mokuba's shoulder, I asked, "Know what you want?"

"Um…" He peered closely at the brightly lit menu behind the employee. "Oh! I want the number two!"

I eyed the menu, then quickly stared at the boy. "You want a double cheeseburger?" He nodded. "Are you sure you can eat all that, sweetie?"

"Yes! I promise!"

I shrugged. I could always eat what he didn't finish - I hated wasting food. With my hand, I motioned for Mokuba to place his order with the male. Once Mokuba was done, I ordered my food, paid, grabbed our drinks, and then found a seat in the back corner where it wasn't as busy. I watched as the boy gulped his large Pepsi, wondering whether I should have made him get water and a smaller size. But I shrugged again. Mr. Kaiba didn't say anything about the items Mokuba couldn't have. And besides, this was my treat for him. Mokuba should be allowed to eat what he wants, within reason, of course.

Taking a swig of my lemonade tea, I poked the boy's head. "So, what exactly are you wanting to get for your brother, sweetie? Have any ideas?"

Crossing his arms, Mokuba sat in silence for a moment, considering his options. "I've thought all week, and I'm still struggling. Seto can be tricky to shop for. Himari and I have a really hard time finding something for him for Christmas and his birthday…I want him to like what I get him."

"Oh, sweetie…Your brother will love whatever you give him; you know that."

"Then why can't I think of anything?"

I lightly chuckled. Poking his hand, I said, "Well…tell me more about your brother. What does that great CEO of KaibaCorp like to do? Does he collect anything? Is there a specific game he's looking forward to that he doesn't have?"

"Seto, he…hm…" Mokuba scratched his cheek. "Honestly, Seto's kind of a private person, but…He occasionally likes to read…" he counted off on his fingers. "I think he's been looking at a new game, I'm just not sure which one, but…oh." He slammed his hands against the table, and I had to catch the drinks so they wouldn't fall swiftly. "Seto loves Duel Monsters!" My breath caught.

I had completely forgotten about that.

How could I have done so? There were even Blue Eyes White Dragon statues outside the fucking building I work for! Seto Kaiba was infamous in the dueling world for being the top duelist in Japan. He's earned accredited fame over the past years, winning and dominating several tournaments, one especially that was hosted by Maximillian Pegasus. I had watched the duels live when they aired, admiring and learning every strategy Mr. Kaiba played.

I blinked, suddenly remembering why I had forgotten such a fact about my boss. It's because I had stepped away from that world. I still loved the card game and collected cards whenever possible. But I hadn't played a single game of Duel Monsters in…

Almost four years.

Had it been that long already? Had I genuinely placed that special part of my life behind me?

I shook my head in frustration. Now was not the time to remember. I shouldn't remember. It…it was just too painful to do so; there was no point.

Acting like I knew what he would say, I responded, "I was waiting for you to say that. So…we can always get him something Duel Monsters related? How does that sound?"

"But what would I get, cards? Seto has thousands of cards in his collection. Very rare ones, too."

That caught my attention. "Oh, he collects cards, too? He doesn't just play in tournaments?"

The boy's eyes widened as he leaned against the table. "You've seen Seto play in a duel?"

I shrugged, wishing I had bitten my tongue. "Only when it was on TV and bits on YouTube, nothing major." I waved my hand. "Not the point. But I know the place if you'd like to get him something like that."

"You do?"

"Mhm, it's one of my favorite card shops."

A waitress appeared with a tray, smiling as she handed us our food. We separated the items, and I watched as Mokuba tried holding his massive burger, which he failed to do. He inhaled several bites as I slowly ate, my eyes observing him to ensure he didn't choke on anything.

"Liz, how do you have a favorite card shop?"

Fucking shit.

"Oh, um…" I took another bite to try and think of a response. Covering my mouth, I replied, "I've…dabbled in Duel Monsters. But I prefer to collect the cards."

"Have you ever played in a duel?"

"A little, here and there. But I'm not very good. I think collecting cards is more fun, anyway. Besides, I think you'll like this store. It has more than just Duel Monster cards. Maybe you'll find something else there you'll like."

"I can't wait!"

The topic of Duel Monsters slowed after that as we ate our meal. Thankfully, Mokuba kept the conversation going with different topics - away from Duel Monsters. I would be talking his ear off about the infamous card game if this had been four years ago. But now, after all this time, I even had difficulty glancing through my precious deck. It was…too burdensome to sift through my cards, even after all this time. The pain was still too fresh, too raw. And that probably wouldn't go away any time soon.

And then there was Uncle Shiro and his fucking payments. That wasn't helping, either, especially since my uncle and the topic of Duel Monsters were somewhat connected.

I had finished my burger, watching Mokuba slow down. He was barely able to finish half before he declared he was full. Asking for permission, I grabbed his food and ate the rest. He watched, almost mesmerized that I could eat practically two full burgers.

My response was, "I told you. I'm the queen of burgers."

We soon departed, cramming into my car as I adjusted our route toward the Kame Game Shop near my house. The drive toward the opposite side of town took longer, and I questioned why so many people were driving around. It was a Saturday, but damn, traffic was terrible. By the time we arrived, it was just after two o'clock.

As we stepped out of the car, Mokuba glanced at the sign. "Kame Game Shop?"

"Yep. Personally, I think this is the best place to find Duel Monster cards, but that's just me." I opened the door so Mokuba could enter first. The ding from the tiny bell at the top rang, signaling our entrance. Across the shop, I could see Solomon placing different items onto shelves. Several other customers were looking at different merchandise, and as the bell rang, Solomon glanced to see his new customers.

"I'll be with you momentarily - oh! Well, if it isn't Lizette!" The elder man smiled as I nudged Mokuba toward the front of the store.

"Hi, Solomon. It's been a while. Sorry 'bout that." I was sheepish that I hadn't stopped by sooner. Solomon had always treated me nicely since I first visited his store, always trying to give me discounts for being 'his favorite customer,' but I refused each time.

"Why are you sorry? You're a working woman and going to school!" He smiled brightly, as if easily forgiving all. Which she knew he had.

"You're such a sweetheart, Solomon."

"Well, you're here for a reason. Here to shop for new cards? I just got some new dragons in I think you'll like!"

That piqued her interest. "I might look at those later. I'm here with this little one right now," I pointed to Mokuba. "This is Mr. Kaiba's younger brother. We're on a top-secret mission to purchase a birthday gift, and he wants to see what you have."

Solomon smiled at Mokuba who returned the gesture. "It's nice to meet you, Mokuba. Do you know what you might like to get your brother?"

"Um, maybe some Duel Monster cards, but…I'm not sure. Seto has thousands of cards, and I doubt I'll find one he might not have."

Solomon winked in my direction. "Then you came to the right shop. Because I just received a shipment that has hundreds of new cards. I don't think some have been released to the public yet!"

Mokuba gasped. "You might have cards that brother doesn't own?!"

"Possibly! Would you like to look?"

"Yes, please!" Mokuba was excited as Solomon guided the child to the corner display where he kept his newer, sometimes rarer, cards. As they moved, I walked around the store, wondering if there was anything in here I could buy. I could always buy him some cards as well, but that felt like a gift that should be received from Mokuba.

I didn't know much about Mr. Kaiba. I knew he loved Duel Monsters but didn't know his favorite type. Part of me wanted to assume it was dragons because of the Blue Eyes statues outside the company doors, but that didn't mean anything unless I was told directly from Mr. Kaiba's mouth.

Still, I continued searching. There were games upon games in this store. Some I had played, some I had heard of, and others were completely new or old, which you couldn't find anywhere else. Getting a friendly game for Mr. Kaiba to play with Mokuba could be lovely, giving them something to enjoy together. I could hear Solomon talking with Mokuba, whose voice would rise as he discovered a new card he wanted.

I passed through the tiny aisles on a quest. I was bound and determined to find something for my boss. He had been nothing but extremely kind and generous since hiring me months ago, and I wanted to return the favor. Besides, he purchased flowers on my birthday when I hadn't even been with the company one week. This was something I had to do, something I desired to do. In the hopes of giving him something, maybe he would grant me one of his beautiful smiles. I would do anything for that smile. It meant that Mr. Kaiba was happy, and I wanted nothing more than for my boss to feel happy.

I fell in love with the man each time he granted me such a smile.

Others were speaking around me as other customers shopped. I meandered around, scanning the shelves and those on the wall, wanting to find the perfect gift I could. It had probably been fifteen minutes since arriving at the store, and I could already tell that Mokuba had a small stack he would purchase. What all had he found? Were they all one type? Were they split between monster, spell, and trap?

I stopped in my tracks.

I had made my way around the shop thrice, only to stop beside the register. Glancing at the shelf behind it, my eyes connected with a small box, one I hadn't seen in the several times I had glanced over the same shelf. Stopping before the counter, I tilted my head back and forth. Was the item on the box really what was inside?

"Solomon?"

The owner's head appeared around the corner of the counter. "What do you need, Lizette?"

I pointed to the shelf. "That box, there. The one with the Blue Eyes on it. Is that…the actual product?"

He moved closer to see what I was talking about. As his eyes connected with what I was pointing at, he grinned. "Oh, yes. That's the same product. Would you like to see?" I was nodding enthusiastically before he could finish his sentence.

Grabbing a step stool, Solomon took hold of the box and pulled it off, only for me to see the one behind it. "Wait! Can you grab that one, too?"

The store owner smiled even more. Stepping off the stool, he handed me both, and I couldn't withhold the smile gracing my face. Without considering whether or not I should buy these for Mr. Kaiba, I found myself saying, "I'll take them both."

Chuckling, Solomon said, "I thought you would. The moment you told me what you wanted, I knew. These are for you, yes?"

I shook my head. "Surprisingly, no. As much as I love Blue Eyes, these are for Mr. Kaiba."

He seemed surprised at that. "Oh? Huh, I thought you would've kept them as your own. Well, guess that means I'll call you when we get another set back into the shop. That way, you can buy them for yourself."

He made me laugh; the gesture was so sweet. "I would appreciate that, Solomon. But, hey…" I glanced at Mokuba in the corner, still looking at cards. "Please don't mention my history to Mokuba, ok?"

"You…do you not want them to know?"

"No." I found myself saying. "At least…not yet, if that makes sense."

Solomon's first response was to smile and pat my hand. "It's not my story to tell, Lizette. If you want them to know, you'll tell them when the time is right."

Why is this man the sweetest? "Thanks, Solomon. You're the greatest."

"I try," he snickered. "Now, if only Yugi would think the same."

"Solomon!" I lightly poked his arm. "Your grandson loves you; you already know that, you goof." His hearty laughter filled the small store. We walked over to Mokuba who, as I had guessed, had a small stack of cards he wanted to purchase. Oh, geez. "Alright, Mokuba. Have you found anything?" I asked, feigning innocence as if I didn't know what he'd chosen.

Showing me the large stack, the boy smiled. "Yes! Look at all the new cards I found! I swear, brother doesn't have any of these!"

Ruffling his hair earned me a squeak from him. "Even if he does, your brother will love it regardless. But I'm curious. Show me what you found."

And he did. He found various cards: monster, trap, spell, it didn't matter. I noticed that Mokuba chose many dragon cards over any other type of monster. Curiously, I asked, "Hey, Mokuba. Why so many dragons?"

His look was one as if I should have known the answer. "Seto loves dragons; it's his favorite type." Huh.

Well, that's interesting.

It's my favorite type, too.

Through my peripheral, I could see Solomon spare me a look and a snicker. I ignored him, not wanting to go down that route.

"Should I get brother anything else, Liz?"

"Hm?" Lowering my attention to Mokuba, I noticed he was staring at me. "Oh, um…" I grabbed the cards and flipped through them once more. "I think…well, that depends. Is there anything else you want to get him?"

Stealing a peak around the store, the boy nodded. "Would a game be nice?"

I first nodded. "I think a game would be great. And then you two can play it together!" Realization hit Mokuba at my words, his smile contagious. Mokuba left his cards for me to hold as he quickly looked through the rest of the store. I thought he would take his time searching for a game, but after five minutes, he returned with not one, but two. "Are those the ones you want?"

"I think brother will like these. He might even ask you to play with us, Liz! That would be awesome!" I considered the idea. Maybe he would.

Maybe he wouldn't.

My crush was one-sided. I'd told myself before, but I knew it was the truth. There was no way Seto Kaiba would see me in the same light I viewed him. But then I had to be even more honest with myself. This wasn't just a simple crush. I was falling in love with the handsome CEO more every day. It was difficult not to. Did I know everything about him? No, of course not. But was what I knew enough for me to love him? Yes. Yes, it was.

I took hold of the game and placed it on the counter. "Alright, Mokuba. Think you found everything?" He nodded. Turning to Solomon, I said, "Yeah, I think we're finally good. Care to ring us up?"

"Of course. Are these together or separate?"

"I'm buying mine!" Mokuba gently placed himself before me. "I want to buy my brother's gifts!"

Chuckling, I placed our items in different piles. "You can take care of him first, Solomon." The store owner nodded.

Solomon calculated the price of each card and the games, saying, "Alright, that'll be twenty-three thousand yen." Pulling out his adorable Pokémon wallet, Mokuba pulled out several paper bills and handed them to Solomon, who slowly counted each. He spared me a glance. "Uh, sorry, Mokuba. You don't have enough."

Mokuba's face instantly fell. "I…I don't? But I counted! I know I have enough!"

I placed my hand on the boy's shoulder. "How short is he?"

"Ten-thousand yen."

"I'll cover it." Sliding my items beside Mokuba's so they could be scanned, the child stared at me.

"But, Liz! I can pay, I promise!"

Kneeling before him, I held the boy's shoulders. "I know, and the money you brought was a lot! You should be proud of how much money you have. But I'll cover the rest. I want your brother to get all the gifts you chose for him."

Mokuba looked like he was going to cry. He sniffled several times but then lifted his head high. "I'll pay you back! I promise!"

I pulled the boy in for a swift hug. "Your offer is appreciated, Mokuba, but don't push yourself. I'm not expecting you to pay me back, so don't - "

"No! I'm going to pay you!"

Our eyes connected, and it was difficult to avoid the conviction Mokuba's glare held. Knowing he wasn't going to relent, I agreed. "Hmm, ok, if you insist." I giggled. "But pay me back when you can, alright?"

"I can do that!"

Standing, I turned to Solomon, who put everything into a bag and gave me the total. He then handed me the yen Mokuba gave him so I could pay with my card.

Turning to Mokuba, he said, "I gave you enough protector sleeves so the cards won't be damaged. They're in their own special baggie."

"T-Thank you!" Mokuba smiled.

Solomon turned to me. "Need anything else, Lizette?"

"Nah, I think we're good. We appreciate all your help." Handing Mokuba the bag, we turned toward the door. "Thanks as always! I'll be seeing you, Solomon!"

"Come again, Lizette! See you next time!"

The bell above the door rang as we exited and made our way to my car. Mokuba entered first, and I stopped before my door, taking a deep breath, as always. My heart hammered against my ribs, and my palms grew sweaty. Still, I pushed through and stepped inside, starting the car. Taking my phone out of my pocket, I checked the screen and saw that I had a message from Mr. Kaiba.

I have to go back to the office for a bit. Is Mokuba being good?

Quickly replying, I said, He's being great. But don't stay there too late; Mokuba wants to keep playing Minecraft with you. And then I sent it, placing the device in the cupholder as I reversed the car.

"Lizette?"

Driving, I quickly glanced at Mokuba. "Yes, sweetie?"

"Do you think…you could cook my brother something for dinner? As a birthday present?"

That caught me off guard. "You want me to cook for your brother? Hmm, I think that can be arranged. What's his favorite meal?"

Crossing his arms, Mokuba thought. "I think…I think it's beef, beef…? Mingyone…I know it! I just don't know…"

My head tilted. "Are you…talking about filet mignon?"

"Yes! That's what Seto loves!"

Oh, geez. That's a tough one. "That's, Mokuba, that's something I can't cook." He looked defeated, but I quickly said, "I'll still cook him something!" Looking back on the Fridays I've made Mr. Kaiba lunch, I thought about which meals he liked the most. Then I remembered the first meal I made. "Oh, I think I got it. How about katsudon and fried rice? Your brother likes that, right?"

Mokuba was nodding again. "Yes, yes he does! He also loves gyoza. Is that something you can make?"

Oh, is that something I can make? Ha! Smiling, I replied, "Now that is something I can do. Do you think he'll like it?" Mokuba nodded, and his hair bounced back and forth frantically. "Alright, then that's the plan. Then we need to hit the store." Glancing at the clock, I noticed it was after three, leaving us enough time to shop for groceries, grab items to wrap our gifts, and cook dinner. My phone dinged beside me. "Mokuba, can you see who texted me?"

Grabbing my phone, he tapped the screen. "It's from Seto! He said that he'll be home by six."

Perfect.

~ oOo ~

When Mokuba and I returned to his mansion, it was about four-thirty. He helped me carry our numerous bags inside and led me into the kitchen. I was first shocked by the size of the house and curious about the kitchen - I was impressed!

You name it: two ovens, two stoves, a massive fridge, granite countertops. The entire kitchen was immense, with beautiful appliances and every single utensil you could think of. We dropped all the bags onto the counter as I stared. What I would do to have a kitchen like this someday. It may be a bit large, but I could easily get used to that.

"What can I do to help?!" Mokuba bounced on his heels as he stared at me.

Starting to remove the food from the bags, I stopped for a second. "Um, honestly, you could start placing your brother's cards in the protectors and wrapping your gifts? You should get that done before he comes home."

"What about your gifts?"

"I'm gonna get dinner started first. Don't worry, it won't take me that long."

He glanced at the kitchen table in the breakfast nook. "Can I stay in here with you?"

"Of course! I'd love your company!"

Grabbing the materials he would need, Mokuba made a nest at the table as I familiarized myself with the kitchen, finding every utensil I would need for dinner. Mokuba slowly placed each card in its protector as I began dinner. The plan was to create the same dinner I had made: katsudon over vegetable fried rice with homemade chicken gyoza. Just thinking about the meal was making my mouth water.

I turned the music on my phone, and we got to work. Mokuba was silent for the most part, with a question now and then. I mainly focused on dinner, wanting to be ready when Mr. Kaiba returned home. While at the grocery store, Mokuba asked to buy a cake, but I decided to make one. He instantly agreed, stating that it had to be a chocolate cake. I agreed, saying chocolate was the best.

Dinner didn't take that long. Wanting enough time for the cake to cool to place the icing on it, I baked that first. With it in the oven, I began the fried rice and cutting the pork into the proper size. The rice had to sit for several minutes as I transferred the pork cutlets into the oven. I've seen katsudon being made on the stovetop, but my mother's recipe called for it to be baked, which is the way I prefer it. I then made the gyoza, rolled and folded each individually, and grilled each perfectly. By the time the food was resting, the cake had cooled, and I iced the cake as perfectly - mostly messily - as best I could. We placed the candles on top and waited for Mr. Kaiba to return.

Checking to see it was right before six, I was wrapping my two gifts, the card having already been signed and sealed. "Think your brother will be home on time?"

"I hope. When Seto gives a time he'll be home, he's usually strict with it, but that sometimes changes."

"Hopefully, he will come home soon. I want the food to be nice and warm for him." As I placed the last bit of tape on the small box, I smiled, hoping that Mr. Kaiba would also appreciate the gifts I had purchased for him. Once done, I grabbed the cake and placed it in the center of the table, purposely aligning the gifts around the delicious dessert.

And just as I sat the wrapped gift on the table, I could hear a faint click from the foyer.

"Ms. Kawasaki? Mokuba, I'm home!"

I smiled at Mokuba and took his hand as we walked into the foyer. I watched Mr. Kaiba remove his shoes and put on his slippers. Mokuba let go and ran to his brother, tackling his waist in a tight hug. "Welcome home, brother!"

Smiling down at his younger sibling, Mr. Kaiba spared me a glance. I reeled. He was smiling at me, and there was something in his eyes…I couldn't place it. My heart skipped a beat, thrashing against my ribs as our eyes stared into one another. I couldn't look away; I didn't want to. His beautiful blue eyes were captivating. Did he see something in mine? Was he looking for something specific? And just as it started, my boss glanced away.

"How long have you guys been home?"

"Mm, a little over an hour," I replied.

"We have something to show you!" Ah, so Mokuba didn't want to wait. I smiled. He was so eager to celebrate his brother's birthday. I was proud of him.

Taking his brother's hand, Mokuba led the way. Mr. Kaiba spared me a look. An eyebrow raised in question, but I shrugged, obviously not wanting to divulge the surprise. Once we were close to the kitchen, Mokuba stopped and turned around. "Close your eyes!"

"Why?" Mr. Kaiba instantly asked.

Gently knocking my shoulder against his, I said, "Just listen to your brother." He stared at me again, so I added a, "…please?"

My boss sighed and instantly complied. Closing his eyes, he placed a hand over them, completely covering them. "There, is that better?"

"Yes!" We both said in unison.

Still, Mokuba held his brother's hand and guided him through the kitchen to the breakfast nook., As he stood before his presents and cake, Mokuba stopped and stepped aside. "Ok, now look!"

Slowly, Mr. Kaiba lowered his hand and opened his eyes. He was fixated on what was before him before glancing at us. "What's this?"

Mokuba and I snickered at each other before screaming, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"

Turning his head back and forth between the presents, the cake, and us, Mr. Kaiba caved in and smiled. Moving forward, Mr. Kaiba engulfed his brother in a massive hug, lifting the child off his feet and twisting him back and forth. "Thank you, Mokuba." Releasing his brother, my boss gave me yet another look. This…this was different. Many emotions were swirling in his eyes, and for the first time since we met, I sensed his barriers were slowly drifting away. Before me was the Seto Kaiba I wanted to understand, and I was slowly beginning to.

"I'm assuming this was all my brother's idea? Is that why you're involved?"

Shrugging, I raised my hands in defense. "Hey, your brother came to me earlier this week asking if I could take him shopping."

"It's true!" Mokuba pulled on his brother's sleeve. "Liz was kind and took me shopping today!"

Mr. Kaiba's eyes moved from his brother to me. "So, what, lunch just a ruse?"

"Oh, no, I still treated him to lunch. We went birthday gift shopping, then to the grocery store."

Mr. Kaiba reeled slightly. "The grocery store, but why…?"

This time, I grasped my boss's hand, ignoring the slight spark, and twirled him around to see the two plates of food on the counter. "Your brother asked if I could fix your favorite meal."

My boss smirked and then snickered. "That doesn't look like filet mignon to me."

"Oh, ha ha." I rolled my eyes in slight annoyance. "Excuse me, I can't make that. But I do recall that you liked my katsudon and rice. Does that satisfy you, Mr. Kaiba?"

He nodded slowly. "Honestly, Ms. Kawasaki, anything you cooked would have been perfect." Turning to me, he said softly, "You've brought me nothing but delicious food. I trust your judgment."

Oh, my cheeks will surely melt off if he gives me any more compliments like that. Turning away slightly, I muttered, "T-Thank you, Mr. Kaiba." Clearing my throat, I grabbed a plate and handed it to the birthday boy. "Here, before the food gets any colder." I gave the other to Mokuba, who walked toward the dining room.

"Where's your plate, Ms. Kawasaki?"

I blinked. "Mine? Oh, well…" I swallowed. "I thought you'd like to enjoy this evening with your brother."

He blinked as well. Placing his plate on the counter, Mr. Kaiba swiftly grabbed a third plate and piled it high with the food before handing it to me softly. "You went through the trouble to make this for me. I'd…like you to join us."

My hands held the plate, the tips of our fingers barely brushing together, but even that small touch ignited the familiar spark. Blushing even more, I said, "Ok, birthday boy. I'll eat dinner with you."

Allowing me to enter the dining room first, I sat beside Mokuba. Mr. Kaiba placed himself on the opposite side and watched us. The birthday boy consumed the first bite, nodding about the taste. Seeing as his brother approved, Mokuba took his bite, agreeing it was delicious.

We didn't spend long with dinner, Mokuba nearly scarfing his meal, soon asking for seconds. I reminded him that there was still cake, and he decided against the food and patiently waited for us to finish so he could enjoy a slice of dessert. Mr. Kaiba and I followed his steps and decided against the second plate. My boss moved to take our plates to the kitchen when I stopped him.

I winked before I could stop myself. "You sit, birthday boy."

Quickly rinsing the dishes, I grabbed the cake and matches, lit the candles, and placed the cake before my boss. Mokuba and I sang to him, who seemed to glow from the tiny flame of the candles. When we were done, he closed his eyes briefly before opening them, swiftly exhaling to blow out the candles.

Immediately, Mokuba asked, "What'd you wish for, brother?"

Stealing a peek at me, Mr. Kaiba winked. "It's a secret."

Another blush.

Fucking hell with this man, I swear. He was trying to give me a heart attack.

After cutting the cake, we enjoyed our slices, with Mokuba once again flying through his slice, a second, and then a tiny third. When he was done, chocolate icing covered his face, and I handed him a napkin. I laughed alongside his brother.

Once he was all clean, Mokuba proclaimed, "It's present time!" Rushing into the kitchen, he carefully returned with our gifts in his arms, handing them to his brother.

For the first time since meeting, the look on Mr. Kaiba's face was different. I'd seen him confused before, but this…Once again, this was different. He seemed lost, not understanding what was before him.

"…are all these for me?"

Mokuba and I nodded. "Of course!" I said smiling.

"Mokuba…" Mr. Kaiba shook his head slightly. "You didn't have to get me anything."

"Yes, I did!" His brother stated proudly. "And they're not all from me. Two are from Liz!"

He peered at me, almost in defeat. "Ms. Kawasaki…You especially didn't have to get me anything." Though he was slightly protesting, I swore he was lifting his lips in a smile.

Holding up a hand, I said, "Hey, you purchased flowers for me on my birthday. I call this even."

He would have replied if not for Mokuba insisting he open his gifts. And so, Mr. Kaiba carefully tore through each one, admiring the gifts. He seemed excited about the games, stating we would play one right after this. Then he moved on to the tiny pack of cards. Thankfully, Mokuba didn't wrap them individually. He wrapped them as one and placed it inside a bag. Mr. Kaiba removed the tissue paper and ripped through the paper, his eyes widening slightly upon seeing the Duel Monster cards.

"Well, what'd' you know…Ah! I don't have this one yet." Mr. Kaiba smirked at Mokuba, who was positively beaming. "How'd you know which ones I didn't have?" He glanced at me, but I secretly pointed at his brother.

"Um, more like a guess. But Solomon said these were all new cards. Just released!"

He gave me a questioning look. "Solomon's the owner of the store we went to; he's a friend of mine."

"Ah, I see." Flipping through each card, Mr. Kaiba took the time to show us and explain what each card meant, especially if it had a special ability. Mokuba was fascinated by this, and I enjoyed it as well. I could see Mr. Kaiba's care for the game, which I secretly adored. When Mokuba's presents were done, we held the last two, looking at me. "And these are from you?" I nodded.

Unwrapping the first carefully, Mr. Kaiba's smile as the paper fell was attractive. "Holy…where did you find this?"

It was a tiny, immaculate figurine of Blue Eyes White Dragon. "Honestly? I bypassed it several times but finally found it randomly on a shelf. I thought it'd be cute on your desk."

"Well, you thought exactly." Having taken the figuring out of the box, he stared at the craftsmanship, flipping it back and forth. "This is going right by my keyboard."

Beside me, Mokuba elbowed my ribs, smiling all the while.

My boss then opened his second gift; he smiled again, and I could only assume it was because he liked what he was gifted. Inside the box was another Blue Eyes White Dragon figurine, but this time, one that needed to be constructed out of nano blocks. Mr. Kaiba must've appreciated this as well when he examined the box.

"This is also going on my desk."

Mokuba suddenly shot from his seat and rounded around the table, hugging his brother. "Happy birthday, Seto! Did you like your gifts?"

"Did I like them?" He kissed his brother's head. "You did a fantastic job, Mokuba. I loved everything that was given to me." Turning his head to me, he said, "And I must thank you, Ms. Kawasaki. Your gifts are appreciated, and as I said, both will be placed on my desk by Monday morning."

"They better." I stifled a giggle.

"Brother!" We turned our attention to Mokuba. "Can we play a game?"

"A game? Hm, I guess we can. But…" He turned his attention back to me. "Only if Ms. Kawasaki plays with us."

Mokuba then ran to me and grabbed my hands, shaking them. "Please, Liz! Please say you'll stay and play! We have to try one of the new games I got Seto!"

A tender smile formed as I ruffled the boy's bushy hair. "Oh, if you're both asking nicely, I guess I can stay." Mokuba instantly squealed with delight, asking his brother which game he wanted to play.

That was how we spent the rest of the night. After cleaning the food and putting it away, we sat back at the table and tested both games Mr. Kaiba was given. We loved both, playing several rounds of each before moving to the next. We shared stories, mostly from Mokuba, as Mr. Kaiba and I listened. I wasn't even paying attention to the time until I noticed Mokuba was slowly nodding off as he sat in his chair. Checking my phone, I noticed it was almost nine, telling my boss the same when he asked. Standing, Mr. Kaiba excused himself as he took hold of his brother and escorted him upstairs. While he was gone, I took it upon myself to clean he table, placing each item from the game in its appropriate place inside the box for safe keeping. Mr. Kaiba returned several minutes later as I patiently waited.

"Sorry about that," he explained. "Mokuba is usually in bed by eight; he gets tired fairly easily this late."
I waved him off. "He's still a growing boy and needs his sleep; I wasn't too worried." Rechecking my phone, I was about to stand and excuse myself when I suddenly couldn't. Mr. Kaiba had placed a hand on my shoulder, causing me to peer into his beautiful eyes.

"Ms. Kawasaki, seriously…thank you." His face was tender.

"For what, Mr. Kaiba?"

"My birthday," he said honestly. "It's…" he cast his head away momentarily. "It's not a day I usually celebrate. Mokuba makes a bigger deal out of it than I do."

I didn't understand, but I sensed it was about his stepfather. That was a route I would not tread unless he brought it up. "Thanks is not needed, Mr. Kaiba. Birthdays should be special, and with all the work you put into the company, you deserve a day that's about you."

He snickered at my comment. "Sometimes…it's hard to do that." Claiming the seat beside me, he dropped his head into his hand. "It's… challenging running my company while caring for Mokuba."

Leaning forward, I placed my hand over his spare. "I could only imagine. I'm an only child; I wouldn't know what it's like to take care of a sibling." Our eyes fell to our combined hands. "But, if it's any consolation, I believe you're doing a fantastic job."

He slowly raised his eyes to me, slightly wide. "…you think?"

Was he really not believing me?

So I nodded and squeezed my hand. As I did, I could feel my boss intertwine our fingers together.

"You don't give yourself enough credit, Mr. Kaiba. I'll say it again for everything you do: you deserve a good birthday."

"And I had one." It was his turn to squeeze his fingers. "All because of you and my brother."
"And I would do it again in a heartbeat, Mr. Kaiba." Despite my hesitation, I slowly removed my fingers and stood. "Unfortunately, I think it's time I head home."

He copied my movement and stood as well. "And what will Ms. Kawasaki do once she's home?"

"Probably playing Final Fantasy, to be honest." I yawned. "Or I might sleep and do that tomorrow."

Mr. Kaiba walked me to the front doors. "What, no homework? Nothing to do for your thesis?"

My head shook. "Nope. I purposely stayed up late last night to finish it so I could spend all day today with Mokuba." I moved to grab my shoes when my boss grasped my arm, pulling my attention to him.

"You…" I could see him swallow. "You did all that just to help out my brother…?"

Smiling, I nodded again. "Of course. Your brother nearly begged me this week to help, and I just couldn't not - oomph!"

My body reeled as Mr. Kaiba's arms suddenly engulfed me. His long arms wrapped around my waist and gently pulled me into his chest. Shocked momentarily, I quickly returned the gesture, placing my arms around his neck. As he felt my return embrace, my boss relaxed in my arms, falling into my body as he held me.

I don't know how long we stayed in that position. Seconds, minutes, hours - all I knew was that this was the perfect hug. Mr. Kaiba was taller than me in that I had to nearly stand on my tiptoes to latch my arms around him, and I was just short enough that he had to bend down, placing his head in the crook of my neck.

By some unforgivable force, we pulled apart.

Holding me close enough our breaths mingled, my boss whispered, "Thank you, Ms. Kawasaki. I…I appreciate everything you've done. Mostly for my brother, but…also for me. For today. I…I can't thank you enough."

Kiss him.

No! Don't kiss him!

No! Now's the perfect moment! Kiss this handsome man!

I fought with myself. My thoughts were right: I so desperately wanted to kiss this man, even if it was a simple peck on the cheek. But I wouldn't. Mr. Kaiba didn't feel the same; couldn't feel the same. There was no point.

So, I smiled. "And I appreciate everything you do, Mr. Kaiba. You're a fantastic boss."

But then, for a moment, I thought he would kiss me. I could see the hesitation in his eyes, the way his body swayed toward mine, the small step forward he took before stepping back - the lowering of his head and eyes, the slight part of his lips. The signs were all there.

Or were they just a figment of my imagination?

Taking his hand and squeezing it one last time, I said, "Get some sleep, birthday boy. You've had a special day."

Stepping through the door, I froze for a microsecond, our eyes connecting before I slowly shut it. Outside, I stood momentarily, soaking in the bitter air before moving to my car. As I inhaled deeply before sitting in the driver's seat, I quickly maneuvered my car away from the mansion, past the gate, and out onto the street, headed back home.

I wanted to remember this night. I wanted to remember my boss's smile, his stare at me, and his squeeze of my hand. This was special, and I blushed, knowing I was part of why he enjoyed his birthday. This thought left me reeling, knowing I could give this man such joy.

I could accept that he wouldn't love me the way I loved him. So, I would love him from afar and bring this man happiness in any way I could. He deserved it, and I would do whatever possible to show he did.

~ oOo ~

Even though I'm the one writing the story, even the slow burn is killing me!

DragonGoddess629