Author Note: I don't own Yugioh.
Regarding commissions from artists: I am an artist myself so while I appreciate the hustle, I am not interested in paying for commissions at this time.
The Lies That Bind
Chapter I
The Assignment
A sweet, exotic aroma wafted its way through the dimly lit coffeehouse, matching the leisurely rhythm of the people inside. In an inconspicuous corner, a young woman sat silently - waiting. She blended perfectly into the scene as if a subject in the background of a painting, as if she wished not to disturb the air around her even with an exhale. She had waited a long time for this day. She was good at waiting. Biding her time. Watching. Her eyes remained riveted out the front doors of the establishment. Her coffee sat before her untouched, forgotten. Every few seconds, she absently adjusted the delicate Bluetooth earpiece tucked beneath a layer of her sleek blonde hair. Time trickled away. But it was beginning to quicken to the pace of her pulse.
She heard it before she saw it. The black limo that came to a gradual halt before the doors, engine still running. A dutiful chauffeur exited and quickly circled to open the read door as a tall young man with a silver briefcase stepped out. He was recognizable at once, his blue eyes icily looking ahead. Seto Kaiba.
For a moment she nearly forgot how long she had planned for this moment as she saw him enter the building. He took a seat at a table a few away from hers and quickly took out his laptop to work. She knew why he was there and the associates he came to meet. She knew he had a habit of being early. It had been a nightmare finding a chance to cross his path in public but the opportunity finally presented itself and she had to be prepared for the few minutes she had. Hesitation was not an option.
Heart pounding in her ears, she willed herself to steel her nerves and began the task at hand.
"I'm focused on cross-system diagnostics," she spoke into the earpiece in a moderate tone. "But Kanzaki Group isn't interested in long-term integration. They only want something they can control."
Her voice had a natural softness, but today it carried clearly and naturally with a practiced edge. "Of course, I can help Miyata Incorporate develop a more adaptive framework, one that doesn't collapse under its own ego. I have the background and experience. My time at Kanzaki Group is coming to a close and it's time for greener pastures."
The typing stopped.
She stirred her drink carefully, watching the whirlpool form and dissipate hypnotically. "No, he won't be pleased. But let's just say I have no desire to rehash the same conversations anymore. I don't believe in his vision."
Suddenly, she could feel the weight of a piercing gaze settle on her from afar and she fought the urge to look back. "I'm looking to join another team because Kanzaki's too busy playing king to see what he's doing to his empire."
A silence followed, and she murmured, "Of course, I'll be on the lookout. I appreciate you letting me know." She removed the earpiece, and finally reached for her drink.
"You seem to be underestimating the job market in this city," a low voice cut in. She turned her gaze towards the source and met blue ice.
"You're Seto Kaiba," she said with a touch of surprise. She offered him a practiced smile that he didn't return.
"And you're rather composed for someone who just insulted one of the most powerful men in Domino," he replied with a hint of veiled amusement.
"I didn't think you were the type to defend your enemies, Mr. Kaiba. Unless you disagree with my assessment of him?"
"Hardly. I simply couldn't help overhearing your rather unorthodox audition. And for a second rate firm like Miyata, no less," he added.
"I have a friend who is looking to fill a position," she said simply. "I suppose I didn't make it past the filters for Kaiba Corporation."
Kaiba's gaze sharpened. "You've applied?"
"More than once. Sabrina Takahashi."
"Hn. And now you're openly courting Miyata. You're either reckless or confident."
Sabrina chuckled and met his eyes again. "Maybe I'm just tired of waiting for the right people to notice."
"How long did you work for Kanzaki?" he asked.
"Long enough to know where the cracks are," she returned.
His steady gaze settled on her with sharp precision, much like a tactician assessing whether a weapon in someone else's hands might be better wielded by him. She could tell his mind was rapidly assessing the situation.
She met his scrutiny with calm silence for what felt like an eternity. Finally, he took out a sleek business card from his coat and handed it to her. She carefully accepted it with both hands before eyeing the sleek silver lettering.
"Kaiba Corp. Tomorrow at eight sharp. Tell security you've been requested."
Sabrina blinked, surprised despite herself.
"I don't offer second chances," Kaiba added. "So make this one count and don't waste my time."
She smiled. "Duly noted."
Kaiba gave no acknowledgment. He turned, coat flaring behind him like a shadow, and walked back to his seat without so much as a glance over his shoulder.
Sabrina stared at the card, her reflection faint in the foil. She sat still for a moment longer, her expression unreadable. Then, finally, she took a sip of her now-cold drink and exhaled - shakily, silently.
Outside, a drizzle started.