Adult-FanFiction.org : Yu-Gi-OH

Exposed Shadows	By : Yami-Neferbre Category: Yu-Gi-Oh > Yaoi - Male/Male Views: 2422 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Yugioh! Also, no money/profit is made from this story.

Chapter List
- 6
- 7
EXPOSED SHADOWS
A/N: Hello all....Sorry this took so long. This time it wasn’t because I was busy…..well, not excusable busy. I’ve been reading again, which for me is wonderful, but not so much for all of you. It’s been really nice, in four months I’ve read 4 books, I am on my fifth, and I have re-read through some of my old stories for inspiration. So, sorry again, hopefully this chapter is worth the wait – as Yami put it last chapter, let the fun begin.
Disclaimer: I do not own Yugioh, or any of its characters, clearly…or it would have gone significantly more different.
Warning: This story contains graphic violent and sexual content, yaoi, along with profanities. If you don’t like, don’t read; and if you read and cannot handle it, don’t complain to me, you’ve been warned.
CHAPTER SEVEN
TORONTO, CANADA
Tuesday – 1700 – Ridder Corp
The moment the elevator door chimed open music reached his ears. Stepping out he tried not to chuckle, Kendra was bobbing her head happily along to the music in clear enjoyment while furiously typing. It was something he expected to find Yugi listening to, but not Karel. Seto quirked his head, waving back at Kendra when she acknowledged him he meandered to the door. It was powerful rock music with a heavy industrial and instrumental core, quite the combination, while a deep strong voice that seemed to have an incredible range pelted out the lyrics. A break occurred between songs and he took that time to duck into the office, making sure to audibly open and close the door to announce himself. Karel glanced up from his desk and grinned, picking up a remote he paused the music as the next song started and rose up signalling for Seto to join him. Quickly taking a seat in one of the plush leather seats in front of the desk he smiled, Karel seemed to be in a far more chipper mood than the gloomy one he had been in during the past week, it was refreshing.
“You wanted to see me?”
“Ah yes,” Karel stated in remembrance, sitting back down and resting his arms on his expansive desk. “Sorry about the long wait for your own office, I heard that was finished this morning and you were allowed in it finally. How are you liking it?”
Giving a nod, Seto chuckled, “Yes, finally. It’s perfect; great view, bright and spacious, it’s a near mirror image to Lysbet’s. I quite like it. I also finished that project you requested this morning. Most of the afternoon I’ve spent with the tech’s installing the new security software for the building, along with all the new panels and equipment. Yugi said he would check it all over with me tomorrow and make sure everything is running smoothly before we fully shut down the old system.”
“Will it be ready for the main lab facility by the end of the week?”
“Definitely. If tomorrow’s test runs goes well, it can be installed in the external facility and be fully operational for Friday.”
“You two work fast,” a grin crossed Karel’s features. “Though, considering you used to work and go to school together I should not be surprised. Yugi tells me the two of you have quite the past; a strong friendship foundation creates perfect business partners.”
“Well, we didn’t get along to start. Let’s just say him and one other friend are the reason I pulled my head out of my ass and made the remaining few years of High School enjoyable. Yugi also patented several games through my company and was a tester for Kaiba Corp. while going through university. We also competed against each other in tournaments. So yes, we have quite the history. He’s the best friend I have ever had.”
Rising, Karel beamed, slowly strutting over to the nearby windows he peered out into the city. “Yugi seems to have that effect on people. Though my son has successfully avoided him for well over a year, I would imagine he no longer regrets letting him in.”
Pushing the chair back Seto stood and joined Karel by the windows, cerulean orbs intent on the man in front of him. “If he does, he doesn’t show it.”
Karel glanced at him, a thoughtful glint to his eyes. “What does he show? Aside from anger and a stoic wall, my son hasn’t shown me any other emotions since he was twelve.”
Brow creasing Seto crossed his arms, “Quite a bit, actually. It took a bit of prodding, but he seems to be opening up to Yugi and I.”
A stunned expression and a soft grunt in the back of his throat displayed Karel’s disbelief, “I wonder how much of it is genuine.”
Fists clenching, Seto diverted his attention to outside, “Maybe you should spend some time with him. Might be more reliable information than prodding others for updates on his wellbeing.”
“That will never happen,” Karel said stiffly, tone harsh but Seto noticed a small tremor in his jaw and an odd flick of pained emotions through his eyes before a harsh façade covered it. “He wants nothing to do with me.”
“Tell me, Karel, and be honest. Yugi’s pulled a lot out of him about what happened with the Bratva. Is it true?”
A sharp glare made Seto turn his head back towards Karel. Hands shoved themselves into the pockets of his perfectly pressed suit, while Karel’s jaw tightened. “From his point of view, yes. But he doesn’t know everything. I have done some terrible things in my past Seto. Unfortunately my son took the fall for all of it, and I was the monster that let him. But that was then, in the near sixteen years since a lot has changed that he knows nothing about because he spent all of it running away.”
“He didn’t seem to have much of a choice,” Seto pressed. “He hasn’t had much else of a choice either but to stop running.”
Karel flinched, reading far deeper into the comment than Seto could surmise. “You have to face your demons sometimes, even if you don’t want to.” Taking a cleansing breath, Karel turned and returned to his desk, gathering his jacket and briefcase he peered over his shoulder at his new protégé. “We should go get your things; the girls are expecting both of us at the dance recital so you may as well come down with me.”
Blinking in confusion, not entirely happy with the sudden change of subject, Seto pushed himself away from the window and followed Karel out into the hallway. “Yami’s going to be there as well. Think you can handle him.”
The elevator chimed and Karel’s back stiffened again, averting his head just enough to stare at Seto. Karel did not notice as the elevator came to a stop, oblivious to the click of heels as the individual entered stood in front of them intently. “I am not sure if I should be grateful to you two or furious. He’s avoided me for years, even going so far as to miss family gatherings and not attend any of Emmy’s special events.”
“He hasn’t missed a single one of Emmy’s events since he’s been back from Afghanistan,” Lysbet said waspishly, causing Karel to pale and Seto to lean back against the elevator wall. “He’s been at the back of the room for every dance recital, school event, and he’s been with her and I separately for every family holiday. He loves Emmy enough to be in your presence, and apparently he’s damn good at hiding because you have never noticed him.”
“Lysbet…”
Holding up a finger, hazel eyes burning, Lysbet silenced him. “Why do you hate him so much? What could a twelve-year-old boy honestly do that was so terrible to treat him as if he doesn’t exist? And don’t try and tell me otherwise, I’ve watched how horribly you have treated him since Mama passed. I just tolerated it because I was too pansy assed not to stand up to you for him.”
“Lysbet,” Karel started, clearly faltering, glancing back at Seto for support and did not find any from the stoical man standing behind him with arms crossed tightly. He was however saved by the chime of the elevator reaching the floor where Seto’s office was.
Annoyance clear Lysbet shook her head slowly, waving her hand out of the elevator she encouraged Seto out and strode behind him, “I want the truth, Papa. Figure out your words very carefully, because the next time that I ask I will not drop it or let you sweet talk me away.” Holding the button down so that the elevator did not continue down, she stated tautly. “We will meet you there; I have a few things to go over with Seto and would like to do so during the drive down. Oh, and Papa, a friend is joining me tonight – he’s Yami’s friend as well. So behave yourself.” Stepping away she waved at him, though her expression was less than pleased.
Averting she headed down to their adjoining offices, Seto quietly at her heels. Pushing open her office at the end of the short hallway, she glanced over her shoulder, “I just need to grab my things, how quickly will you be ready?”
“Just have to grab my stuff as well,” he smiled at her then ducked into his own office. Exhaling dramatically he slumped against the door, taking advantage of the brief reprieve. His gut churned, signalling sharply towards the bad feeling settling heavily on him. Adjusting his tie enough that he could pull it off he dropped it on his desk, along with his blazer, and grabbed his dark blue trench coat and his briefcase from the back of his chair. Pulling on his jacket he steeled himself and exited his office, Lysbet was already waiting for him out in the hallway her face still sour. Heading down the hall he murmured out. “Remind me never to get on your bad side.”
It elicited a prideful grin, “The joys of becoming a mother, you grow one hell of a fierce back bone.”
“Gee, I had no idea.”
“Speaking of back bone,” clicking the elevator button she peered up intently at him. “I heard down the grape vine that Yami went to see the chief today. Mind telling me about that.”
Flinching Seto bowed his head and sighed, “Let me guess, Graham saw him there and told you.”
“Yes, though he did not tell me why he was there or what the outcome was. I’d like to have a little bit of a background before I slap him upside the head.”
The elevator chimed open and they both entered. Feeling Lysbet’s intent glare not rescinding, Seto scrubbed his hand through his hair in frustration. “Do you know Kevin?”
“Kevin Nelson? Yes, vaguely. He’s one of Yami friends from the military, works for CSIS now.”
“Yes, well. He sort of barged into the house on Sunday, though apparently as Yami puts it that is a normal thing. Anyway, he’s apparently been working on the Bratva’s movements for a while.”
“And your point?”
“Yami wanted to go to the chief to get his backing. He doesn’t want to sit back anymore; he wants to take them down. Kevin seemed to know this and convinced him it was a good idea, and is planning on supporting him somehow. Though very little of it sounded legal.”
Pressing her lips lightly together, Lysbet shook her head as they headed out of the elevator and into the underground parking lot. “That sounds like something that idiot Bakura would do.”
“Bakura was against it too,” Seto enforced, clambering into the red Lincoln MKX. “You know what Bakura does right?”
Turning on the ignition Lysbet turned on the defrost along with the heat into the white leather seats. “No, not really. I assume he’s still running with a bad crowd.”
As they pulled out onto the street, Seto resisted cursing as water streamed down onto the vehicle, it was better than snow but it still soured his mood. “Not willingly. He’s an undercover cop that is hooked up with the Bratva. I guess he was assigned to them with no ulterior motives behind it. They figured out his connection to Yami though and have had a pretty tight leash on him since.”
Eyes rolling Lysbet resisted the urge to rest her head exasperatedly against the steering wheel. “I am really getting sick of all of these lovely little tid bits dropping in my lap.” Pursing her lips she turned the steering wheel to direct them onto the next street. Pulling into a parking stall she unbuckled her seatbelt and exited the car. “One second, just have to pick up Emmy.”
Slouching in his seat, long fingers tightening on the armrests Seto internally prayed that this would shut down the interrogation, but he doubted it. He was only left in silence for a few minutes before Lysbet came running out through the rain with a mirror image of herself, save six-years-old and adorably dressed. Unable to resist smiling Seto shuffled so he could stare into the backseat while Lysbet helped Emmy into the car and clicked on her seatbelt and handed the little girl a bright pink and yellow backpack. Emmy stared up at him, giggling a little and waving cutely; he waved back and internally stiffened as he spotted the one difference between Emmy and Lysbet.
Clambering into the vehicle Lysbet seemed to notice the scrutiny. “Yes, she inherited my mother’s eyes, not mine. Emmeline, this is Mr. Kaiba, he’s working with me to take over from Opa when he retires.”
She giggled and waved again, blushing a bit when Seto smiled at her again, the tone matching her ruby eyes. “Hello Mr. Kaiba, nice to meet you.”
“It’s nice to meet you as well, Emmeline. You know, you’re a lot prettier in person than in your Mommy’s pictures.”
Emmy looked over at her mother, “Mama, do you still have that silly one of me at the beach.”
“Yes, my love, I most certainly do. I love it, so it stays.”
“But I look so silly!”
“Emmy, you might think it’s silly but it makes Mama smile. I’m going to put a movie on for you, Mr. Kaiba and I have a few things to talk about, alright?”
She pouted, little hands tightly gripping her backpack. “Yes Mama.”
Hitting a few buttons on the centre console, Lysbet set up the movie for her daughter. Seto heard the mechanical slide and click of the DVD player lowering from the ceiling of the vehicle, then a movie began to softly play. He straightened in his seat, his hopes fully shoved out the window. Feeling Lysbet glance at him expectantly when they reached a light, he rested his head back against the headrest, “If he gets the chiefs backing, it sounds – via the conversation on Sunday – that they have a pretty solid plan in mind. Though again, none of it sounds legal or safe.”
“What is the plan?”
“Find one of the underground bunkers that the Bratva have, either here in Toronto or in the surrounding area. Kevin has a lot of strong intel pointing in certain directions, and Bakura said he would help as much as possible.”
“And when they find the bunker?”
“Infiltrate it.”
Inhaling sharply Lysbet felt her hands tighten around the steering wheel, “Infiltrate it. As in storm it and hope that they find something amidst staying alive. Shouldn’t the police be doing this?”
“They can’t, they would need a search warrant, along with breaking through a lot of other levels of red tape. Besides, if the police infiltrate it there is no telling how much warning the Bratva will have before their arrival.”
“True,” she murmured, eyes glassy. “So does this mean Yami is going undercover?”
“Yes, if the chief approves.”
“I see. And where do we sit in this equation?”
“We?”
“You, Graham, myself and Yugi.”
Stumped Seto chewed on his lip; he honestly hadn’t thought that far ahead yet. Drumming his digits on the armrests he shrugged, annoyed at his brains lack of ability to come up with a good response. “No idea.”
Humming at the back of her throat, Lysbet pulled off the street and into an already rather crowded parking lot. Finding a parking spot she pulled in, shutting down the vehicle and slumping in her seat. “Something feels wrong about this. I don’t like it.”
“You and me both,” Seto stated, unclipping his seatbelt, eyes glancing towards the dance studio in front of them. “Should maybe corner that brother of yours afterwards and make sure he includes us, he needs some sort of support and levelheadedness to keep him grounded.”
From the backseat, already having had unbuckled herself, Emmy tapped on Lysbet’s seat to gain their attention. “Mama, you still have to do my hair, I don’t want to be late.”
Steeling herself, Lysbet quelled back the tightening of worry within her chest, glancing back at her daughter she smiled. “Of course, love. Let’s head in.” She was startled, a small cry leaving her lips, when a knuckle wrapped on the passenger window of the vehicle. Hand against her racing heart her expression soured, though with little conviction. Umbrella over both of their heads, Yami and Yugi waved at them out in the rain. “You bastards!”
Seto cringed at the small excited squeal that emitted from the back seat and Emmy opening the door with a bang. Feeling rain starting to soak him from the back he rolled his eyes, may as well embrace the wetness, shoving the door open he flinched and exited into the pouring rain. He was instantly soaked, though the umbrella that was instantly over his head reduced the severity, Yugi grinning up at him. Gaze averting around his friend, Seto watched Emmy come bounding around the side of the vehicle and straight to her uncle.
“Emmeline, be careful, I told you Nonkel had surgery…”
Another excited squeal escaped Emmy as Yami lifted her up, his body protesting but clearly not caring. Yugi and Seto both held their breath at the soft and elated smile that plastered Yami’s face as he hugged the little girl close, her legs around his waist and her arms tightly squeezing his neck.
Gently, still beaming at her, Yami flicked up the hood on her jacket so her head was protected from being fully soaked in the rain. “Hello, sweetie, you’re awfully energetic.”
“Emmeline, what did I say!” Lysbet protested, hands firmly on her hips as she stepped under the cover of the large umbrella, glaring more so at her currently drenched brother than her daughter. “Nonkel had surgery in his tummy, he should not be lifting you up.”
Lips pursing together Yami peered at Emmeline, melting as his niece pouted, a tactic that always worked. “I’m fine Lysbet.”
“Yami, put her down now,” he scowled at her, Emmy pouted further, but Lysbet held her ground. Once Emmy was back on the ground she handed her daughter her dance bag, then turned and slapped her brother on the shoulder, hurting herself more than him, this obvious by the quirked brow he gave her. “Moron, you’ll pull your stitches!”
Rolling his eyes Yami took hold of Emmy’s questing hand and headed towards the entrance of the studio, everyone else following behind, “Let’s get out of the rain shall we?”
“Nonkel, will you sit with Mama this time, she’s right in the front row. You won’t see as well in the back, and you don’t have Hanny this time either!”
Yami stiffened, knowing full well that Karel was here, his usual excuse to stay at the back was usually being in uniform with Hannibal at his side. Through the corner of his eye he could see Emmy giving her usual pout, which bordered on being as persuasive as puppy dog eyes. Giving her hand a squeeze he held the door open and ushered her in. “Sure sweetie, now go with Mama and get ready.” Lysbet came in immediately behind Emmy, giving her brother a knowing apologetic look before disappearing into the cluster of bodies in the lobby, Emmy leading her away to the dressing rooms. Giving Seto a lazy smile as he passed, Yami exhaled deeply then followed in behind Yugi. All three removed their jackets and checked them into the busker behind a desk to their right. The atmosphere was stuffy as always. It was a prestigious dance academy, top in the city, and Yami felt sorely out of place.
Seeing Yami’s posture stiffening Yugi elbowed him, signalling for him to follow into the main theatre, “Don’t worry, you at least don’t look out of place, even if you feel it.”
“This was your idea!”
Yugi winked back at him, beaming proudly, “I’m just glad you kept your Christmas gifts, Lysbet has good taste.”
“They’re too small.”
“Only because you are used to swimming in your clothes!”
Seeing the two disappear into the main theatre, Seto pulled himself from being distracted and taking in the splendour of the building to stumbling behind the two, thankfully his legs were significantly longer. Though, he nearly stumbled again as he caught the tail end of the conversation and absorbed what Yugi was so proud of. Yami, for once, was not dressed in either sweats or military type clothing. He swallowed hard, trying not to ogle, especially when Yugi sent him a sharp glare over his cousin’s shoulder. Sleek black dress pants hugged tightly in all the right places, showing musculature and curves that set Seto’s heart racing. His breath was shunted as Yami turned to him. A dark grey dress shirt that almost appeared to be satin was doing nothing for quelling Seto’s imagination; the material was unforgiving with its delicate sheen. But there were no flaws to show except for the obvious rise of where the adhesive gauze was covering the external sutures on a perfectly flat abdomen. Lifting his eyes, slapping himself when he realized that Yami was observing him, he smiled awkwardly, stumbling over his words, “You look incredible.”
A dark blush covered Yami cheeks, his heart skipped a beat and his mind was internally screaming, though far quieter than normal. Mentally he wanted to run and hide, especially at the very appreciative once over Seto just gave him, but a deeper and stronger part within him was relishing in the attention those blue eyes had just given him. Rubbing the back of his neck he let a small smile slip, enhancing the ruby hue to his light bronze skin, turning away he meandered towards their seats.
Plunking down beside Graham purposely leaving the other three seats between him and his father, Yami quietly watched Yugi fill the seat beside him and then Seto. Leaning towards Graham, he whispered, noticing the nervous twitch in the brawny man’s form and the sweat soaking his palms. “Take a breath.”
“He gave me a death glare,” came the uncharacteristic squeak, Graham glancing at him, anxiety almost palpable. “She must have said something. He went out of his way to shake my hand, at least in a you better tuck tail and leave kind of way.”
Sighing deeply, Yami went to speak; Yugi’s hand pressing against his chest silenced him along with his cousin’s reassuring tone. “Don’t worry Graham, we are all here, and we like you too much to let him bully you away.”
“Thanks Yugi,” Graham gave a tight smile, though his eyes drifted up to Karel and he shrunk lower into his seat. “Oh bloody hell, why can’t your family be normal.”
Placing a hand on Graham’s arm Yami tugged on his friend’s attention and held it, “Stop giving Karel the ability to fear monger you. The fucker doesn’t deserve that kind of reverence. The only opinion that matters is Lysbet’s, and you already know how she feels.”
With that fuel behind him, Graham sat up straight, massive shoulders pronounced and chest out. “You’re right.” A thought crossed over him, cocking his head he focused his attention on Yami, though the thought instantly left and he found himself in shock. “You have normal clothes? Since when?”
Huffing, Yami scowled, “Since Lysbet insists on buying them for me.”
“Well, you look good. It’s weird not seeing you in your usual though.”
The notion was emphasized, Lysbet coming to her seat and stopping dead with an elated beam, “I knew they’d fit!” Hands darting out she fussed and smoothed out the shoulders, not caring that Yami was fuming at her. “Who are you and what have you done with my brother?”
With his thumb, Yami singled Yugi out, “You can thank him.”
She winked at Yugi and grinned. Without a thought, and with Karel’s eyes firm on her, she leaned over and gave Graham a welcoming kiss, “Sorry, your hello had to wait a little bit.”
Graham smirked devilishly, sitting forward he took her hand and gently stroked the delicate skin on the back of it in a soothing caress. “Hello my lovely.”
Lysbet blushed and chastely kissed him again. Shuffling down she moved to her seat, briefly stopping at Yugi to let him know that Rei was all set up and ready to go and didn’t need anything. Though, before she was even able to get comfortable in her seat, Karel was barraging her with questions, which to everyone else’s amusement she answered very firmly, matter of fact toned and with little mercy. However, both Yami and Graham exchanged knowing looks and shakes of their head when she failed to mention the important titbit about the baby. Graham murmured something about believing it’s because she has yet to tell Yugi or Seto and did not want to ruin the surprise. To which Yami just scowled but chuckled, his sister was a master procrastinator.
The lights dimmed and the show began, elegant maroon velvet curtains parting and a group of little girls in gorgeously adorable lilac toned and sequin covered tutu’s trundled on stage, the girls were maybe four years old and absolutely precious.
Seto had been concerned about coming, but he was finding himself vastly enjoying the spectacle, especially as the age group rose and some very impressive group and solo performances were presented. Though, he wasn’t prepared to watch Rei up on stage, his heart dropping and a lead weight of feeling old settled in his stomach. The twelve-year-old had gone through a growth spurt since he had last seen her a year ago and her womanly physique was starting to come in. Her hair was much like Lysbet and Emmy’s, a streak of blond bangs in the front and the rest thick and lengthy ebony; though all of it was pulled up tightly in an intricate up-do. Her blue eyes had darkened some, not the same shade as they had been before; they had taken on more of a violet hue. Seto couldn’t help but compare her to Anzu, aside from the hair and height she was a splitting image of her; graceful and gorgeous.
Not long after her performance, Emmy came bounding out in her cute dress and went straight for Yami. A vibrant smile crossed Yami’s features as he assisted his niece into his lap and wrapped his arms around her while her head and back rested against him. Barely noticing the pain it caused he enjoyed the cuddles, nodding his head and murmuring small responses to her when she said anything. The rest of the world melted away around him, enveloping around just him and Emmy.
Yugi smiled softly at the visual beside him, waving back at Emmy when she greeted him. His cousin’s stoic and hard demeanour had dissipated the instant he saw her. Lysbet had always told him that the little girl had Yami wrapped around her finger and that all she had to do was look at him and he became mush. But he had a hard time picturing it, until tonight. The permanent soothing smile gracing Yami’s aquiline features as he held Emmy was the purest smile Yugi had ever seen, it was a look Atemu had never shown either, and it was both enthralling and lifting. Something else caught his attention across the aisle, cold amber eyes and a sleek figure hypnotised by his cousin, settling an uneasy feeling in his gut, detracting from the jubilation beside him.
As Rei left the stage after her solo performance, Seto exhaled deeply and slouched a bit in his seat, taking the moment to glance around the room while the intermission was being prepped. Feeling a tap against his side he stopped his visual wandering and met with Yugi’s intense gaze. “What?”
“There’s a guy across the aisle from us, something’s not right about him.”
Bewildered, Seto casually flitted his gaze towards the other side of the front row, stomach tightening when his gaze fell on the culprit. He was a tall middle aged man, vastly attractive with steely pale hazel eyes; a stunning and younger woman latched onto his arm at the other side. Frowning he opened his mouth to speak but found his vocal cords clamping, gaze falling on a familiar figure standing off to the far side of isle with two other menacing figures flanking him, his sharp attention trained on them as well. “Arik’s here,” Seto whispered harshly to Yugi, gaining a disbelieving glare he subtly pointed in the man’s direction.
Faintly glancing in that direction, Yugi froze. Yami was no longer in his seat, just Emmy was there. Teeth gritting in panic he searched for Arik, finding the giant and his lackeys heading towards the exit to the lobby, the man that had been staring right behind them. The lights suddenly illuminated the theatre, blinding Yugi briefly and causing him to lose track of them. Darting he signalled for both Graham and Seto to follow, weaving through people that had already risen from their seats and were jamming the aisle.
Phone in hand, intent on calling back the call he had just missed, Yami stepped out of the lobby and stood under the covered front entrance outside. The chill of the rain reached him, soothing the intense heat radiating through him from the immense amount of bodies in the theatre. Thankful that he hadn’t bothered to don his coat he leaned his back against the stone wall of the building and enjoyed the coolness, dialling Kevin’s number then pressing the phone to his ear. Hearing the ringing cease and the scrambled click of the call being answered, he quirked a brow in amusement, apparently he had startled Kevin because the clank of the phone dropping and multiple curses reached his ears.
“Hello? Yami?”
“You called?”
“Yeah, yeah sorry I wasn’t expecting you to call back so quick. I just spoke to the chief, and to one of my contacts. I need you free tomorrow night; we have some information to pull from a source, a not very willing one.”
“Where and when?”
“The Cube nightclub. Meet me there for nine, the target is supposed to be there around eleven, I’d like to get well situated before he arrives. I’ve got early access in, one of the bouncers is a contact of mine.”
“Who is the target?”
“He’s Kiril’s second, one of the Authorities in the Bratva. He’s got a loud mouth apparently. Now, Yami, I really need you to get a new wardrobe as best you can. I need you to be able to blend in with me and you won’t be able to do that with what you have. Can you do that?”
A flick of nervousness zipped through him, but he quelled it down. “Yeah, I can do that.”
“Are you ready to get uncomfortable.”
“I’ll figure it out.”
“Good. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Bye.”
Ending the call Yami placed the phone back in his pocket. The intermission was at least fifteen minutes, and he planned on savouring the chill that was radiating up his spine for as long as possible. Hearing the creak of the metal doors of the building opening he expected a few smokers to pile out and possibly invade his space. Frowning, he peaked to the side, confirming at the whiff of smoke and a few people nearby lighting their cigarettes, he pushed away from the wall and moved around to the side of the building. Thankfully still covered, he closed his eyes and leaned back against the stone, muscles relaxing and mind calming amidst the soft patter of the rain hitting ash fault. The click of several pairs of shoes increasing in closeness forced him to open his eyes again, glancing towards the corner of the building with annoyance. His throat tightened and his body recoiled, stunned disbelief filling him while taking in the smirk of the man starring back at him. Seeing Arik and two other burly men Yami squared off his shoulders, internally cursing that he had left his firearm at home. Finding a small ball of courage within him, he snapped out, “What are you doing here.”
Yevgeny’s grin intensified, eerie eyes narrowing in amusement. “My daughter had a performance tonight. I saw your beautiful little niece with her; I assume they must be the same age.” With a single look over his shoulder, the two additional men darted around, each one blocking Yami’s two modes of escape. Casually, he inched forward, savouring the view before him. Each muscle in Yami’s body tightened as he came closer, the dark grey shirt already clinging in enticing ways was pulled tighter across Yami’s skin. Eyes racking up at down he felt the stirring of old emotions, a searing heat spreading through him. “You know, you are not helping keep me away by dressing like that. I appreciate the view, believe me, it’s been hard keeping myself contained. But, did you not notice the heads turning to watch you. You are for my eyes alone.”
Mind internally screaming in a mix of fright and rage, Yami inched away, matching Yevgeny step for step until the cold barrel of a gun pressed into his spine. His pulse reverberating up his neck from the intensity of his heartbeat, a small tremor seeping through his entire body. Keeping his expression neutral, trying to keep his fragmented mind together and throw up his shields, his voice retorted out piercingly. “Then you never should have allowed me to stay free. You gave up whatever ownership you think you have over me the instant you couldn’t touch me anymore.”
He let it happen, knowing full well that a consequence would follow and that fighting back would cause more harm than good. Anticipating what was coming when the man behind him snapped forward. A sharp wince left him, two hands slithered up his sides then hooked around his collarbone and fastened themselves behind his head brutally pinning his arms above shoulder height and expanding his torso, stretching the incision uncomfortably. He was lifted slightly up to the balls of feet by the taller man pinning him. The gun being traded for another by the man beside him, the glistening metal trained on his temple. Taking a soothing breath he tried to calm to slicing pain throbbing from the internal and external damage from the surgery. Body finally relaxing enough that the pain went down, he trained his attention on the Pakhan.
Yevgeny reached out, chastising him mockingly while waving a single finger, that same hand continued forward and gently traced over the collar of his shirt before dipping in and pressing his palm against his neck. The hand glided up further till a thumb pressed forcefully into the bottom of Yami’s jaw to tip his head up, the other fingers digging into the base of his skull. Disgust radiated up him, breath caught in his throat to hold down the bile. A chill set deep into his bones, fear fully taking root within him, along with lividity. Locking with Yevgeny he tried to keep his expression calm, especially when the man pressed flush up against him and his free hand rested against his hip possessively.
That hand roamed up and over the raised gauze pad, Yevgeny cocking his head to the side, his face barely an inch from Yami’s. “I am very glad that your little cousin and your new roommate came to save you.” With ease, Yevgeny yanked the tucked in shirt out and began to unbutton it, exposing the trembling skin beneath. Parting the shirt he traced his fingers over the ripples of thin jagged scars just below the collarbone, before his attentions drifted back over the gauze then to the long jagged scar that began at the base of Yami’s scapula then disappeared down the front of his body below the pant line. Flattening his palm against quivering abdominal muscles he glided his hand beneath the top of Yami’s pants, pulling them down slightly till he found the end of the scar halfway down toned thighs. He grinned; pleasure pulsating through him feeling the familiar yet changed skin beneath his palm and fingertips. The pleasure intensified by those defiant crimson eyes bearing into him. Removing his hand he placed it back on Yami’s taunt hip, bending his head forward he spoke softly, his lips ghosting over Yami’s as he did so, “I have missed you. Maybe I should stop torturing myself. What do you think, my little shlyukha”
Feeling those lips ghost along his jaw line Yami clenched his teeth, gritting them against each other. “I’m not your whore.”
Yevgeny pulled back from his ministrations, fury settling in him increasing the jolts of pleasure through his spine, “You said that last time, you’re mine, I have very firmly claimed you.”
“Fuck you,” Yami growled out, fury over taking the fear within and forcing his body into overdrive. “I don’t belong to you, I’m not a possession.”
Eyes narrowing, Yevgeny adjusted his one hand, taking a full handful of black hair his expression darkened dangerously. Shifting his thumb so it pressed to bruising intensity just below the gauze, eliciting a pained gasp from Yami. He took advantage of it, encompassing Yami’s lips with his own, though those jaws locked tight he continued to ravage and nip, his one hand taking hold of Yami’s jaw again to keep in in place, preventing Yami’s attempts at tearing away. Releasing the pressure he had on the young man’s stomach, he ghosted his hand over Yami’s trembling hip till it rested at the base of his spine, fingers dipping below the pant line to revel in the skin there. Cupping him, Yevgeny grinded their hips together, allowing his aching need to be teased by Yami’s flat stomach, the young man’s trembling only adding to his pleasure. Averting his attention he licked and nipped over supple high cheekbone and smooth flesh, reaching an exposed earlobe before latching onto it. He could feel Yami’s short bursts of breath grazing over his neck, the harsh breaths filled with pain and unwilling pleasure, sending shivers down his spine. Grinning, feeling every bit of Yami’s revulsion and fear permeating through him, he knew how much damage he was causing and caroused in it as if it were a fine wine. With a deep laugh, he whispered into his quivering prey’s ear, “I know I’m the only one that has ravaged you, claimed you. I told you, my darling shlyukha, no one will want something as violated as you even if your beauty is beyond reproach.”
Fists tight enough that his nails were drawing blood, Yami breathed out, desperately trying to hold on to the small shred of courage he had left. “You won’t have me again.”
With a pleased smirk Yevgeny accepted the challenge, pulling back just enough to stare into those eyes, “Arik, get the car here now.”
“Nothing is ready, Pakhan, this is not a wise decision.”
“Then improvise,” Yevgeny snapped. “Get the car.”
Annoyance clear, Arik turned around. Instead of finding the parking lot he found Graham, Seto and Yugi, the first holding a gun trained at his head. Brow quirked, both in surprise and in a tip of the hat to their stealthy approach, Arik grinned. “We have company.”
“What!” Roared the Pakhan, glancing over his shoulder to see the three men blocking his second’s path. Catching cerulean eyes bearing into his with a possessiveness and vicious glint, he snarled and averted to clash head on with Seto’s intensity. Realising his hold on Yami he faced the intruders ferociously, challenging the blue eyed intruder with his own greed for their sought after prize. “Arik, deal with them!”
“Let him go!” Seto snarled out, tone deep and warning.
Phone firmly in his hands Yugi displayed the numbers on the monitor, “If you even try to take him all I have to do is hit this button and emergency services will be notified.”
His heart soared with elation when Yevgeny had released him, even though the sensations still remained he did not have the bastard touching him anymore, his distressed gaze peering at his rescuers with overwhelming gratitude. Taking advantage of the situation change, Yami clasped his hands together above his head, on the balls of his feet he pivoted faster than the man holding him could react. With the thug still holding the head lock Yami twisted fully to the side just enough that he could tuck his leg in behind his attacker and had him bent forward, completely exposed. The thug was bigger than him, but not by enough that Yami was at a disadvantage. Quickly, he locked his arms around the men’s knees and yanked upwards; pulling his feet clean out from underneath him. Using the momentum Yami fell with him, putting the full weight of his shoulder into the man’s exposed stomach as they hit the ground. Hearing a surprised yelp then a heavy grunt he felt the sensation of all the air leaving his attackers chest. Twisting fully out of his arms he slammed his fist into an exposed trachea with far more velocity than needed. Springing to his feet before the other man could react; he slapped away the gun and snapped his elbow out connecting with a hard jaw and shattering it, the sound of crunching bone audible. Screaming, the other attacker fell, gun flying away the instant a foot came crashing down into his stomach.
Picking up the discarded gun, Yami rounded on Yevgeny, expression steely when the Pakhan swivelled around at all the commotion and stared at him in stunned disbelief. “Get out of my sight, before I bury a bullet in your skull.”
The ferocity that hit him from those dark red eyes gave Yevgeny a chill. He had underestimated Yami’s growth over the years in not only tactical training but in resourcefulness. Reluctantly he gave a nod of surrender; backing away he passed by Arik and came up side by side with Seto. Attention never leaving the claw of Yami’s gaze, he cracked his jaw then murmured out. “I’m not done with you yet.” Pugnaciously, his head snapped to the side as an elbow careened into his jaw, forcing him to bite his cheek and stumble sideways. Snapping his attention to the man he was standing beside he snarled, Seto was preparing for another warning strike, cobalt eyes icy with hatred. Within those depths that possessiveness struck Yevgeny again. Snarling he straightened and met with those rancorous depths, recognizing the emotions that were fuelling the man before him, stirring anger deep within him.
Seeing Yami freed Graham clicked off the safety on his Glock and cocked the trigger, “Hands up, don’t make me call for back up,” he warned, cautious when Arik gave a bow of acquiescence and placed his hands on the back of his head. “You have ten seconds to leave the premises before the police are called.”
“You’re mine Yami, and soon you will be reminded just how deeply that ownership goes!” Pivoting, Yevgeny disappeared around the corner and out into the pouring rain, heading towards his limousine that was parked on the far side of the parking lot. Arik’s grin remained, brushing Graham aside he followed his master, the two lackey’s scrambling to their feet to keep up, trailing blood in their wake.
Yugi didn’t wait; as soon as the men were leaving he dove around Arik’s thick bulk and straight for his cousin. Hands taking hold of the shaky digits holding the gun, he pried Yami’s hands off and chucked the weapon away. As if he had yanked the strings away, Yami’s demeanour faltered; his courage and adrenaline leaking out and leaving him racked with discomfort and rampant emotions. Expecting it, Yugi securely embraced him, sighing with relief when Yami clung to him as his body bowed and his knees began to sink. Feeling strong shaking begin to rack his cousin’s form he held on tighter, eyes closing in dismay when the sound of ragged sobs and frantic breathing filled his ears. “It’s ok Yami, we’re here, you’re safe.”
The sensation of those hands, those filthy deplorable hands touching him, digits reaching to protected areas of his body lingered and tore at Yami’s sanity. Violated was an understatement to the heavy and clawing layer of filth that was coating his skin. Yugi’s arms tightened around him, keeping him upright, and he simply clung to him, trying to absorb the comfort his cousin was pouring into the embrace while barely containing the hot tears trailing down his cheeks.
As Yevgeny passed the front door he locked gazes with another familiar face, fury pouring from his and stunned disbelief from Karel. Stopping, eyes briefly glancing at Seto and Graham as they continued to watch from the corner, he clenched his fists and snarled out just loud enough for Karel to hear. “Keep your little boy close. My patience is wearing thin.”
Swallowing hard Karel simply stared in fear, watching Yevgeny and his men clamber into a limousine at the far end of the parking lot. Darting towards where he had seen Yevgeny look, he spotted Graham with his gun still cocked and ready with Seto at his side. Not seeing his son or Yugi he quickly trudged towards the corner, panic setting in.
When Yevgeny and his entourage disappeared into the waiting limousine, Seto and Graham let their guard down. Graham shook his head in blatant fury at Karel – the man stepping up to them - before darting over to Yugi and Yami, leaving Seto to deal with him. Shoving his gun back into its holster inside his dress shirt, Graham gently rested his hand against Yami’s back, beginning to rub slow circles over quivering muscles. “Mother Fucker’s gotten bold.”
“Or stupid,” Seto stated, blocking Karel from going any further, gaze threatening and stopping him abruptly. “No one in their right mind would attack out in the open like this.”
“Desperation is a seed for idiocrasy,” Yugi grumbled, adjusting himself he cupped Yami’s face with his hands, peering into dazed ruby orbs, his cousin’s hands taking hold of his forearms. Recognizing the battling emotions swirling within those eyes, and the heaving breaths Yami was taking, he cursed internally. “Yami, get out of your head and stay with me, don’t give in to him.”
A noticeable switch was flipped and clarity returned to those eyes, Yami forcefully discarding the fog that had begun to overtake him. The memories and sensations rapidly faded away, replaced with the cold of the air and the gnawing pain in his stomach. Keeping one arm around Yugi’s neck he used the support, free hand shoving aside his shirt so he could peer at the gauze. Seeing no blood he heaved a sigh of relief and placed his hand over it, the light amount of pressure reducing the pain. His other hand brushed away the stray tears that were still on his face. He took a minute, ignoring the sets of eyes boring into him and Yugi’s hands that batted his away and removed the gauze to assess the injury, prodding and pressing over sections of his abdomen and gaging his reactions. He allowed his body to relax and fully gage the damage that he may have caused. Everything felt in place, just stretched. Taking hold of Yugi’s hands he took a step back, shaky digits buttoning up his shirt then gingerly tucked it back into his pants. Placing his hands on his knees he bent forward, allowing his head to bow and slow breaths to expand and contract his chest. “Thank you, if you hadn’t come here…”
“We saw Arik, when he followed you out, I knew something was wrong,” Yugi expounded, diverting where that though was trailing, one hand drifting out to ghost over Yami’s shoulders to rub at stiff shoulder blades.
“Espen,” Karel’s voice interjected, firm yet tinged with anxiety. “Espen, what happened to your stomach?”
Yugi felt those muscles under his hands permanently spasm, tightening beyond normal comfort capabilities. Confused, and catching a mirrored bewilderment coming from Graham and Seto he peered across to his uncle. “Espen…who’s Espen?”
“I told you not to call me that,” Yami snapped out, answering for Karel, straightening as much as he could he squared his shoulders and glared at his father, expression pure stone. “I pegged you for an asshole, but I had at least given you the credit of not being an idiot.”
A harsh sting settling in him, Karel clenched his jaw, shuffling around Seto forcefully before coming to stand in front of his son. Quivering, he snapped his arms out, hands cupping Yami’s face, fingers smearing through the tear tracks, bearing down into confused and torn merlot eyes. Taking advantage of Yami’s stunned disbelief, and discombobulation, he drew his son tightly to him; heart beating rapidly both from not being pushed away and for the serenity of holding him. Yami was stiff in his arms, breathing ragged and his arms lay tightly against his sides in shock. He hadn’t held him, not like this, not in nineteen years, and he berated himself for it. He could feel the perplexed and worried gazes of the three others, pulsating against him like a barrage of dull electrical currents.
“Answer the question.”
“Which one.”
“Answer me Espen.”
“I’ve got a better question,” Yami chided, both hands darting up and firmly shoving Karel backwards, just hard enough to make him stumble and create a small amount of space between them, breaking the hold Karel had around him. “Why the fuck do you care?”
“I’ve always cared.”
Dramatically Yami’s eyebrows rose, tone sardonic, “Really, you sure as hell could have fooled me. The only time I was worth anything to you was with my music, but you only cared enough to revel in the one part of me that is like her.”
The sting that had already settled within him dug deeper, a sharp pain triggering deep within his chest. Seeing the harsh questioning glares the others were directing at him, he held in the hurt from the words pouring from his son. They all rang true, and when he had realised how true they were years ago it was too late to reach out and beg for forgiveness. Swallowing down, quelling the discomfort in his chest and the emotions dwelling within him, he stated sharply. “Just answer me please.”
“Fuck off, dealing with the repercussions of your mess is nauseating enough without having to speak to you,” came the sharp retort, garnet gaze vicious.
“Dammit Espen, I just want to know if you are alright!” Without thinking his hands darted out, the tips of his fingers barely touching the soft skin of his son’s face before his wrists were seized in a brutal grip. His throat dried and tightened, bearing down into those beautiful eyes so like his wife’s he stopped in his tracks, reading the clear hatred within their depths.
Yami exhaled stiffly, withholding the urge to lash out, the grip he had on Karel’s wrists beyond the point of bruising. “Your animosity is a poison I refuse to allow to destroy me anymore. You dug this grave; now learn to lay in it.” With disgust, he shoved Karel’s hands away and brushed past him, stiffly heading back into the building, Yugi tailing him without saying a word.
Seto obstructed Karel from attempting to stop Yami from leaving, strong hand snaring hold of Karel’s blazer, Graham assisting by physically stepping between the man and his retreating son. Sharply staring him down, Seto stated stiffly. “I’d recommend not pushing your luck. You’re lucky as it is that he held back.”
“Yeah, he’s still recovering from major abdominal surgery and yet he just popped himself out of a full nelson without much effort and broke the other guy’s jaw. I wouldn’t recommend pissing him off any further.”
Stunned, Karel snapped his head between the two men, “Abdominal surgery?”
Tossing the multitude of statements around in his head, Seto threw caution to the wind and tossed a crumb at his boss. “He’s got pretty severe depression and anxiety issues, coupled with PTSD that until Friday was untreated and without any support. Let’s just say that a large cocktail of opiates and sleeping pills all at once does a lot of damage, especially after multiple rounds of it over the past few years.” By the dramatic paling of Karel’s skin Seto surmised that understanding had sunken in. Releasing him, Seto headed back inside the building, Graham at his side. “If you decide to leave, which I would recommend, I will see you at work tomorrow, good night.”
2000 – Inside the Theatre
Yugi quickly caught up with Yami, following him through the door and into the empty lobby of the theatre. His cousin immediately stopped and averted to him, gaze disconsolate and haunted. Heart tightening Yugi wrapped an arm around his shoulders, pulling him close, relaxing with relief as Yami’s hand drifted to his back and his head rested against his shoulder. Exhaustion and discomfort was evident with Yami’s frame, his posture was lacking and he was cradling his stomach, one hand still pressing over the incision. Feeling Yami trembling he rested his cheek atop his cousin’s head, “Are you alright?” Yami shook his head subtly, his hand balling into a fist. “Do you think you can make it through the rest of the night, or should I get Seto to take you home?”
A deep sigh and Yami straightened, shoulders shrugging he peered hazily at Yugi. “He’s taken a taxi every day to work, can he even drive here?”
“He’s spent a lot of time in America,” Yugi assured, gently squeezing Yami’s shoulder comfortingly. “He can drive.”
Brows furrowed, “I have to stay, Emmy will be upset if I leave. But, I’ll need him to drive; I doubt I will be thinking clearly enough by the time this is done.”
“What about Karel...”
“Yugi, can I ask you something,” Yami murmured, Yugi cocked his head then nodded in encouragement. “Is it wrong that part of me wants to believe that what he just did was genuine?”
Chest tightening again, Yugi felt the remaining strings in his heart pulled tight. Deep within those eyes, eyes that never lied, he could see a lost child scared and alone. Seeing Yami’s jaw tremble and his cousin drop his head away, he hugged him tightly, reassured as Yami embraced the comfort. “No, he’s your Father Yami, no matter what he’s done that will never change.”
The front door opened, though Yami did not seem to notice, Seto and Graham were both by their sides. Graham immediately placed his hand against Yami’s back, expression solemn. Seto crossed his arms and stood beside Yugi, quietly listening.
“I needed him, I needed him to be there, to love and protect me. What did I do wrong that made him abandon me?”
“Out of what I can tell, there is nothing you have done that warrants what he has done to you,” Graham said. “Almost losing your son twice would normally be a wakeup call, not vice versa.”
“Twice?” Yugi and Seto chimed.
Lips pursing, Yami closed his eyes, turning his face into Yugi’s shoulder to protect it as his throat tightened at the memory. The tender touch of Yugi’s hand gliding over the back of his neck calming him, but he still could not get his voice to work.
Seeing this, Graham explained. “Reiyame died in an avalanche when they were all on vacation in Switzerland. Rasky here was caught in it too. Lysbet told me he shouldn’t have been pulled out alive. shocking considering the head and abdominal injuries along with two broken femurs, apparently hypothermia stopped him from bleeding out.”
“Holy shit,” Seto stated uncharacteristically, completely flabbergasted. Yugi seemed to share his confusion.
“Is that when he changed?” Feeling Yami nod against his shoulder, Yugi exhaled deeply and squeezed his eyes shut. None of this made sense. Like Graham had said, normally a traumatic event like that would make a parent almost cling to their child, shield them and protect them far more fiercely than before. Karel had done the opposite, almost as if denying that Yami had survived. “This is all one giant mess.”
“Welcome to the family,” came the sardonic retort, muffled against Yugi’s shoulder. “It’s fifty different shades of fucked.”
Yugi, Seto and Graham all shared mixed looks of bewilderment, unease and concern.
Recovering first, Seto gave a dramatic sigh, one hand on his hip the other brushed roughly through his hair. “Did you two drive here together or separately?”
“Separately,” Yugi answered.
With a nod, Seto made his decision. “Let’s head home Yami. I don’t think you are in any condition to finish the night.”
Head lifting Yami stared at him blearily, tears that were not evident before shinning unshed. “No, I have to stay, Emmy…”
“She’ll be just fine,” Graham interjected. “You were here for her’s and Rei performances. I’ll just tell them that you were called away for work, no harm done.”
“And Lysbet?”
“I’ll explain everything to her when we get home.”
Reluctantly Yami nodded, startled as his jacket was shoved in front of him, Seto having already retrieved them. Pulling the warm article of clothing on he dished out the keys from his pocket and handed them over to Seto, “Put a scratch in it and you’re dead.”
Rolling his eyes, thinking fully that on Yami’s salary that there was no way he owned anything that valuable, he glanced down at the key and bulked. “How can you afford a range rover?”
Hands shoving in his pockets Yami scowled, “I made a hell of a lot of money when I worked in the music industry, and still do. Besides, I paid the house in full when I bought it, so all my years in the military I spent my money on only my tuition and living expenses, the rest went into savings. Four years of solid touring overseas makes it really hard to spend anything.”
Groaning in annoyance, Yugi shoved Seto towards the door then hugged Yami tightly, “Just get going. Text me when you get home, alright?”
Pulling back Yami gave a small bow of his head in assurance then exited the building. Striding back out into the cold night air, thick with moisture from the pounding rain he quickly made his way to his SUV. Seto followed behind, stumbling in further disbelief as Yami lead him up to his vehicle. It was a brand new custom matte grey Range Rover Evoque, pristine and perfect with black interior leather and all the upgrades. He had just bought it a few months ago; aside from Hannibal this SUV was his baby. Hearing the click of the doors being unlocked he clambered in, immediately switching on the heated seats when Seto started the ignition. Settling in and buckling his seatbelt, Yami glanced over to Seto, his overcharged emotions almost being side swiped away at the clear awe the man had. Large hands glided over the steering wheel, cobalt eyes taking in everything like a kid in a candy store.
“Is it the convertible model?”
“Yes.”
“Can I borrow it to drive to work when you don’t need it?”
“Keep dreaming,” Yami stated with a slight smile. “I’m pretty sure you can afford a whole hell of a lot prettier of a vehicle than this.”
“I haven’t even started looking yet,” Seto admitted, putting the SUV into gear and driving out of the parking lot onto the street, following Yami’s brief directions towards home.
“The taxi rides must be getting expensive. And all the eating out you have done is not good for you either. You do know we have a kitchen right, and a that I usually cook a fair amount. You’ll pack on the pounds if you keep this up.”
“I need to find a gym to go to. Haven’t pounded the weights in months, never mind done any cardio.”
An elegant brow quirked and Yami smirked at him. “You know, I have a few easy solutions for your problems.”
“Do tell.”
Leaning back, relaxing into his seat, Yami expounded. “I have a second vehicle in the garage you can use; I can add you onto the insurance. Bakura has a full set of weight equipment in the basement that you can use, basically everything you will need. Cardio, start running with me I go early and for a minimum of 5K every morning. Finally, I’ll teach you how to cook.”
Lips pursing, Seto glanced over at him. “Deal.” With the tired smile Yami sent him, he returned the sentiment, glad that he had successfully distracted the cop without trying too hard. Though, he had a feeling the meds were a partial reason Yami hadn’t gone off the deep end like he had previously. Averting, remaining on the distraction front, he continued. “What kind of vehicle is it?”
“You’ll see.”
Internally kicking himself for never going into the garage, he bit on his lip in nervous anticipation for the remainder of the drive.
2046 – Yami’s House
Beating him to the punch, Yami pressed the button on the visor of his Range Rover to open the garage door. Seto kept his eyes glued on the garage door as it creeped up, cursing loudly as disappointment settled heavily within him. The car was covered with a tarp, extending his waiting period. Hearing Yami quietly chuckle he grumbled and pulled the vehicle into the garage, parking it beside the mystery car. Glaring at Yami while they exited, “This had better not be a piece of junk.”
“That insinuation probably has my Grandfather turning over in his grave,” Yami warned, coming around he took hold of the black plastic covering and yanked it off in a flourish.
Seto’s jaw dropped and his knees buckled. Parked glistening before him was a cobalt blue 1964 Aston Martin DB5. White leather interior was pristine, silver accents polished to perfection, updated beautifully without damaging any of the original parts of the vehicle. Tentatively, as if touching a new born child, Seto glided his hands over the hood of the vehicle shivering as he reached the door handle. Flabbergasted, he peered at Yami, whom was smugly watching him. “How the hell do you own this?”
“Inherited it. My Grandfather and I shared a love for vintage cars, along with a fascination with James Bond. So, when he found one of these for sale, it didn’t take much convincing for him to buy it. Whenever I visited him we worked on it, fully restoring it. He passed away a few years ago, I had it shipped here.” Meandering over to the door that lead into the house, he unlocked it and cracked it open, pulling a key of one of the hangers on the wall. Spinning it around his finger, one hand dropping down to pet Hannibal’s questing head through the propped open door, Yami turned and held it up like candy in front of a child. “You can drive it, at least until you possibly decide to buy something of your own. But, you damage it in any way and I will cut your balls off and feed them back to you.”
Taken aback by the dramatic threat Seto hesitated grabbing he key, fingers barely an inch away. “Are you serious?”
“Very much so.”
Glancing back at the beauty behind him, Seto cursed his love of shiny objects, especially blue ones. Snapping his hand out he gripped the key, though Yami did not relinquish them, reducing him to begging.
“I promise to love and take care of it as if it was my own child.”
“You don’t have children.”
Grumbling, Seto countered. “Fine, like every beautiful piece of technology I have created over the years.” Yami quirked a brow at him, still not convinced. “I will cherish it like my Blue Eyes!”
Yami’s brow furrowed in surprise, “You mean those cards you have in that silver and glass case in your room?”
“How do you know that?”
“How do you think your clothes have been cleaned the past few days?”
Mentally halting he realised the trueness of the statement. He was so used to his house keeper cleaning everything, it didn’t even dawn on him that his clothes had magically washed themselves. Nor had he found it odd when he found said articles of clothing properly ironed, pressed and put away. Swallowing hard in embarrassment he rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, “I am not very good at self-sustaining am I.”
With a smile, soft and amused, Yami shook his head and relinquished the keys. “Not even a little bit.”
Internally squealing with delight, while also beating himself over the head for his lack of ability to take care of himself like a grown adult, he quietly shadowed Yami into the house. Divesting his jacket he hung it up in the closet, taking Yami’s and doing the same, along with chucking both of their shoes onto the rack. All the lights were off, which Yami was rapidly changing, turning on the dimmer lights that filled the living room and kitchen area. Appreciating not being blinded, he glanced around taking note that none of Bakura’s things were visible and reminding himself that the man’s bike was not in the garage, “I’m guessing that Bakura isn’t home.”
On the other side of the island Yami shook his head, in his hands was the tea kettle, filling it with water then plugging it in he lifted his head to Seto. Watching the former CEO sit down on the couch and flick on the TV, he occupied his hands by rubbing Hannibal’s ears, “He said he was going to be gone for a few days, something about a drop he had to do in Halifax.”
Absently listening to the news, Seto peered over the back of the couch at Yami. Seeing that the tremor and the distant glint in crimson eyes from before were gone, delicate but strong hands pouring a cup of tea from the already screaming kettle, he questioned cautiously, “How are you feeling?”
Abruptly stopping stirring the spoon in his cup, Yami blankly stared at the counter, kept alert only by Hannibal insistently rubbing his big head against his thigh. Exhaling stiffly he shrugged, returning to stirring the milk in his tea. “I’ve been better. I’m going to take a shower, see if I can wash this off.”
Concern evident, Seto frowned, “That’s not exactly something that water can wash away…”
Sending a strained smile in Seto’s direction he diverted away, heading towards the bathroom, Hannibal loyally at his heels. He could feel Seto’s worried gaze watching him, though thankfully he seemed to hold back whatever additional comment was on the tip of his tongue. Placing his tea on the vanity, he turned and closed the door, making sure that Hannibal’s tail did not get stuck in the frame. Giving the dog’s head a loving rub he smiled down at the Shepard, rewarded by a tell tail thumb of a tail against the door and a lolling tongue.
“Who’s a good boy?” Another loud thump and Yami felt his heartbeat slow. Though his trembling had dissipated, his heart rate was still pulsating rapidly and pounding against his ribs, simple breathing tactics having yet to calm it. Kneeling down he wrapped his arms around Hannibal, resting his head atop the canine’s head, not complaining as a warm wet tongue softly licked at him arm. Pulling back he kissed his partner on the top of the head, hands rubbing Hannibal’s ears and scratching his neck. “Good boy Hanny.”
Rising up he turned on the water for the shower, barely blinking at the intensity of the heat, the skin of his hand turning red upon testing it. Stripping down he stepped in, hissing briefly at the dull burn that covered his skin from the heat, forcing his body to adjust.
The heat permeated him, but did not wash away the thick layer of filth covering him nor did it scorch away the sensation of those hands wandering over him. Turning the cold water completely off he felt his skin begin to burn, soft muted bronze flesh turning red from the low grade burn marring it. Even the pain wasn’t enough. Frustrated he took hold of the wash cloth and began viciously scrubbing his skin raw, barely noticing the cold tears joining the hot water and his body sinking to his knees. Small nicks and abrasions began covering his arms, the slow flow of blood mingling with the water going unnoticed. Sobs racked through him, increasing the stress on his lungs already being emitted by the intense cloud of steam filling the shower.
Overwhelmed with emotions felt his hands drop the cloth and wrap around himself, intense sobbing overtaking him. His mind was reeling, upending on itself as memories dragged through his already overcome soul. Desperately he had wanted to take hold of any hands reaching out to him, offering him companionship and all-encompassing love, but none did. Fear kept it away, robbing him of the healing waves of affection and love he needed, polluting his image to any that may have wanted him. He needed the discarding abilities of such protection to rid him of the permanent feeling of worthlessness, strip away the ownership that man had on him that was eating away at him. Those words from the past filtered through him, a repeated mantra in his head. The spoken words from earlier haunting him, weighing him down into oblivion, believing them.
“I know I’m the only one that has ravaged you, claimed you. I told you, my darling shlyukha, no one will want something as violated as you, even if your beauty is beyond reproach.”
He did not hear the bathroom door open, nor did he feel the cold air filter in and calm the raging inferno the room had become from the steam. So lost in his mind he also did not hear the panicked footsteps pounding on the tile, or the shower curtain being shoved aside. Even the water being turned off did not register to him, too far gone to snap away from his own prison. Large and warm hands covered him, wrapping a towel around him and pressing the wash cloth over bleeding wounds. When the bleeding had stopped those same gentle hands tenderly began to dry him off, he could feel them, breaking through the fog, drawing on their comfort.
Panic had set heavy into Seto’s gut, tearing him away from the couch the instant Hannibal had forced open the bathroom door and came out baking insistently at him. Knowingly he shuffled aside, looking back at Hannibal.
The canine understood, brushing past him and leaping into the tub. Whining in concern, Hannibal plunked into a sitting position right in front of his partner, insistent tongue licking at the tears flowing down exposed cheeks. His tail thumped happily and he began nuzzling Yami’s face, making small noises of glee when Yami’s hands reached up and gripped his collar.
Feeling the fog continue to fall away, Yami could feel the familiar leather of Hannibal’s collar in his hands, along with the soft tongue lapping at his face. Gasping for breath when the cold air final hit him and filled his lungs, he peered around in panic, settling on Seto’s worried gaze. Tears still flowing, those same hands reached up and wiped them away, cupping his face and soothing him. Not caring that he was naked and completely exposed aside from the towel, he flung his arms tightly around Seto’s neck, desperately seeking out the comfort and security he had felt in those arms days ago when the man had carried him to the ambulance.
Stunned, Seto froze initially, hands unsure of what to do and his mind raced in circles. Straightening himself he read into the signals he believed Yami was sending. Adjusting the towel he wrapped it snugly around Yami’s waist. Bracing himself he tucked one arm underneath toned legs and supported Yami’s back with the other, hoisting himself up with the young cop firmly in his arms. With Hannibal at his heels he made his way quickly into Yami’s room, leaving the main light off he carefully flicked on one of the dull lamps to use for guidance. Tenderly he placed Yami down in the centre of the bed, feeling the hold remain strong around his neck he carefully pulled up the covers to drape over the shivering and sobbing man clinging to him. Using the blankets as a barricade, he laid down on his side slipping one arm underneath Yami’s head he pulled him close, his other hand rubbing up and down Yami’s side over the blankets. Yami, once seemingly certain that he wasn’t leaving and moved his hands to his chest, fisting at his shirt and burrowing into him.
Not knowing what to say, being far from an expert at soothing, he stayed like that for a long while, hoping his presence was comfort enough. It seemed to work, as Yami’s crying began to ease along with his breathing, though the tremor remained. Hearing a heavy inhale, Seto adjusted so he could peer down at Yami, the sound of the young man’s voice easing the tension in his shoulders, though the words tugged at him.
“What is wrong with me…why did all this happen…why is he so obsessed with me…why can’t he just leave me alone.”
With his tucked hand, Seto softly rubbed at tense neck muscles before soothing them through still damp hair, “There is nothing wrong with you, it’s him that is demented. He was probably obsessed by what he couldn’t have, a beautiful young you that was untouched and innocent. Your fire just increased it. I doubt anyone has resisted him, not even any of the other young boy’s he’s attacked; they were probably too lost and scared to have the courage that you did.”
“He took that all away. Whatever attractiveness, innocence and confidence I had he stripped me off. I’m worthless, just a mad man’s sexual satisfaction. He’s right, no one will ever want this…I’ll always be his…”
Rage boiling within him Seto pulled back, hand darting down he gently took hold of Yami’s chin and tilted it up, shattered rub orbs filled to the brim with tears avoided him. Growling low, both from fury and frustration, “You are not worthless. You are wanted, desperately wanted.”
“Stop lying to me, I can’t handle the false hope you keep feeding me.”
“I’m not lying.”
Wrenching away Yami propped himself up on his arms, tears streaming down his face he rasped out, “What could you possibly see that makes this insignificant, decrepit and violated mess. I am nothing; he made damn sure of that. I’m his whore, nothing more!”
Sitting up Seto darted his hands up, encompassing Yami’s chin with intensity, his heart tearing apart at the words the young man was slashing himself apart with. “Yami, you don’t belong to him! Belonging to someone is a choice you make; you decide who gets to be the person that owns your heart, soul and body. Rape does not mean ownership! Cowards rape, cowards hurt young boys, cowards do to you what that bastard did. He doesn’t own any part of you!”
Trembling, he wrapped his hands around Seto’s wrists, clinging to them. The words Seto were speaking were skinning in as truth, and he knew it, but his mind was firmly hiding and fighting against grabbing hold of the light being dangled in front of it. “He’s the only one that has ever touched me…he took my innocence…he took away the only thing about me that I could give to someone. He ripped that away!”
Exhaling stiffly Seto closed his eyes, resting his forehead against Yami’s. “You’re wrong. Virginity cannot be taken; rape does not remove that purity from you. You are still whole.” Shifting back he stared down into those fiery eyes that had drawn him in. Thumbs caressing damp smooth skin he felt a small smile grace his lips. In this moment he confirmed it firmly within his mind, Yami had stolen his heart, he had made the shadow of a crush he had had dissipate away. The young man before him, though broken, was the fire that he wanted; the heart beating in that chest he wanted to heal and draw out from the shell it was hiding in. Yami was the flame worth fighting for, worth giving all of himself to, he had finally found the one person he could truly share his heart with. Gently he pressed a kiss to Yami’s brow, heart soaring at the small gasp Yami let out.
“Yami, you decide how much of you he can have a hold of. You decide who you let into your heart, who you let show you what he has made you deny yourself of. Will you let him keep holding that power over you, or do you want to be free of him.” With another kiss to Yami’s brow, he rested his forehead against him again, whispering. “Let yourself heal.”
Drowning in the light Seto was enveloping him in, and the soft pleasure those lips had stirred in him, Yami stammered out, “Why do you want me…what can you possibly see that makes you want to love me.”
“I can see through the veil that you have pulled over yourself. I can see who you really are, devoid of the pain and fear he has caused you. You are confident, powerful, intelligent and courageous. You are beautiful, inside and out, you just need to believe in it and it will wash away all that he has done. Don’t let him hurt you anymore, use your internal strength to fight back, let your mind heal.”
Sitting back Seto peered down at Yami, absorbing the clear internal struggle within those eyes. Encouragingly he smiled, hands drifting down he let one cup the back of Yami’s head and the other placed the tips of its digits over a pounding heart. “I want to show you what it’s like to be loved, to be cherished, to be wanted and needed. Shake off his remnants and let me show you what you deserve, free yourself.”
Those blue eyes drew him in and snared him, pulling the door to the locked room he was hiding in and ripping it open, allowing light and warmth to flow in. The words Seto spoke resonated within him, swelling through his veins and purging the toxins Yevgeny had seeped into him. He needed this, he wanted it. The past few days the man holding him had started drawing him in, allowing emotions to flood from him that he believed were gone, believed had been destroyed by what Yevgeny had done. The voice in the back of his head was no longer screaming, the fear dissipating with every word Seto said and every tender touch. Seto was alluring, cerulean eyes the window to his soul, tenderness radiating out through the hard exterior. His embrace was warm, comforting and protective. He felt safe with him, his fears washed away just by the few days they had spent in each other’s presence. His hands reached out tentatively gliding over Seto’s chest, feeling the strength beneath his fingertips he caved. He was sick of running, sick of falling; he needed this and wanted it. Snagging hold of the light dangling before him, he murmured out, tears of elation overtaking the ones from before. “Then show me, help me live again.”
Restraints broken, elation swelling within him, Seto beamed brightly. Dipping his head, brushing his lips over Yami’s as he spoke, “Are you sure?”
“I’m scared shitless,” Yami admitted, shakily smiling. “But, you’re right. I need this, I need to heal, I need to let someone in and show me how life should be. You’ve taken all the hell I have dished at you and yet your still here. You’ve made me feel things over the past few days that I have not felt since before he kidnapped me. I want this, I want you, I want to try and let you show me what I’ve been denying myself of for so long. Seto, please...”
Lips covering his own silenced him, the euphoria surging through him arching his back from its intensity. Eyes closing Yami fisted his hands against Seto’s chest, revelling in the intense waves of pleasure this simple gesture was pouring through his veins. Gasping as Seto nipped his lips he shuddered, wrapping his arms around Seto’s neck as the kiss deepened. He allowed Seto to ease back, head laying in the comfort of his pillow and his back was cradled by the mattress. Seto kept one had behind his head, elbow propping him up, while his other with the tenderness of a feather trailed over his jaw and down his neck before coming to rest on his chest. Moaning deeply when tender fingers rubbed and teased his nipple Yami felt his back arching, breaking his lips away from Seto’s and gasping audibly, hand tightly gripping Seto’s shirt.
Opening his eyes he peered up into Seto’s cobalt gaze, loving and warm. His heart skipped a beat, overwhelmed by the emotions he could see swirling with those depths, losing himself in their trance. Seto grinned at him, confident and experienced hands continuing their teasing, eliciting a low groan from him when he leaned down and laid soft kisses along the aquiline jaw then down over the pulsating jugular in his neck. Hands tightening in uncertainty he held onto Seto’s shoulders, feeling the muscles flex underneath them burned desire through his stomach. Lips reached his collarbone, nipping and kissing over them, creating wave after wave of pleasure; their intensity drowned out when Seto dipped his tongue into the hallow at the base of his throat. Gasping loudly he felt heat surge down his abdomen and between his legs, snapping his eyes open he hastily covered the area with his hands beneath the sheets, uncertainty and lack of confidence clear. Panting he averted his head from Seto, feeling his cheeks heat up he trembled. He had forgotten what this felt like, the pleasure was overwhelming but so was the fear, the fear of being unworthy and reminding him of what used to surge through him under Yevgeny’s cruel violations of him.
Sensing this, Seto gently delved his hand beneath the covers and tightly gripped Yami’s, pulling them away, “Don’t be scared, and don’t be ashamed.” Seeing those same emotions raging in Yami’s turned eyes, he bent over and gently kissed the exposed cheek. “There is nothing wrong with this, let yourself feel.”
Seto pulled him from the darkness that had started circling him, expelling away the memories of when it had been Yevgeny torturing him and using his body against him. Tender lips covered his neck, a sharp gasp and his body clenching in overwhelming pleasure from those lips sucking and making his at the juncture of his neck and shoulder. The desire rose again, body overriding the fear in his mind, burning hotly through him. Those lips increased their fervour, pulling moans and gasps from his throat, his hands balling tightly uncertain of what to do or how to react. A loud cry left him as Seto’s lips moved and descended on his nipples, licking and teasing while his hands circled and pleasured the other.
Grinning again, Seto stopped his ministrations and glided his hand along Yami’s jaw, cupping the back of his head to gain his attention. Yami stared up at him, panting and flushed, uncertainty still there but only in terms of lack of experience, body not knowing how to respond. Kissing him again, Seto groaned as Yami’s allowed him to immediately deepen it, plundering and exploring the recesses of that delectable mouth. He tasted so good, his skin so smooth and responding beneath his fingers. It was addicting, arousing his deeply, his neglected need straining in its constraints, tearing at his restraint. His needs did not matter, pleasuring Yami into pure euphoria was his goal, and it was driving him mad with desire.
Taking hold of the comforter Seto pulled it back, exposing Yami’s lower half though the towel was still protecting his modesty. Yami shivered against the cold, and he moved to remedy that, his warm hands drifting down perfectly sculpted pectorals and abdomen before seizing hold of the towel. A yelp left Yami as he yanked the towel away, leaving the young man naked and panting beneath him. Again, Yami’s hand shot down to cover himself, shyness and uncertainty evident, his cheeks turning an even darker shade of red. With a comforting smile Seto slowly, eyes gaging Yami’s reactions, kissed his way down the long neck and over tensing muscles, tracing over the wide jagged scar that went from Yami’s back and down his left thigh. Nipping at the base of the scar, Yami’s quads vibrating with pleasure, he reached up and moved Yami’s hands away. Shifting down fully stretched out beside Yami, his hands gliding over gorgeous softly bronze skin and trembling abdominal muscles then over trembling thighs. Seeing the longing through the cloud of pleasure and uncertainty, Seto took hold of that and leaned over Yami’s waist. Deftly he gripped the base of Yami’s pulsating and hard member, squeezing it and causing an audible gasp and sudden arch, Yami’s hips leaving the bed and his legs clamping closed. Hand still holding him, Seto’s began to gently stroke him through the tightness of Yami’s closed legs, his other hand gently rubbing Yami’s legs comfortingly.
“We go as far as you want,” Seto said, emphasizing his statement by kissing Yami’s bent knee. “Tell me when to stop.”
“I don’t know,” Yami panted, back and hips arching while his hands fisted in the pillow beside his head. “Oh gods…I don’t know what to do.”
“Relax,” Seto soothed, continuing to slowly stroke Yami’s hardened flesh, relieved when the strong legs relaxed and relieved the pressure. With a smile he leaned down and took Yami full into his mouth, relishing in the loud scream it tore from Yami. Shifting he parted Yami’s legs, sitting between them for better access, mouth continuing to suck and lick while his hand keep a massaging hold of the base. Hands combed through his hair and fisted, pitched moans escaping Yami in a steady rhythm. Looking up, encouraged by the pleasured sounds, Seto watched Yami writhe under his touch, perfectly toned body spasming and arching from euphoria. Lips parted, allowing those delicious sounds to leave Yami’s throat, head tossed back against the pillows and eyes lidded with passion. Feeling Yami tensing and a higher more raspy pitch filling his voice, Seto knew he was close. Taking a deep breath Seto encompassed Yami’s member fully, breaking though and snapping the restraints within Yami’s system.
A guttural scream left Yami, his body racked with intense pleasure, the orgasm pulsating through him and causing his eyes to roll back. Gasping he collapsed onto the bed, panting fervently, hazily watching Seto lay down beside him, hot pleasure spiking through him as Seto tenderly ran a hand over his stomach. Peering up at Seto he tenderly ran the digits of his hand over sharp features, admiring the handsome face staring down at him. Seto smiled at him then moved in kissing him deeply, the hand that was on his stomach moving to rub and grip his hip. Exhaustion settled heavy into him, he lazily kissed Seto back while finishing riding the high.
Pulling back Seto stared down at Yami, hand moving up to tenderly caress his cheek. “You’re incredible,” he whispered, grinning at the dark blush that created, tugging at his desire. “How do you feel?”
Sensing the finality in the statement, Yami furrowed his brow, “What about you,” shakily he ran the palm of his hand down towards Seto’s arousal. “It shouldn’t be just me.”
Snagging the questing hand, Seto brought it up to his lips and lay feather light kisses over it, “Tonight is all about you. But, I don’t want to go too far and push you beyond what you are really comfortable with. You’ve had a lot happen today, I don’t want to feel like I am taking advantage of you. Besides, you’re exhausted. Sleep Yami, we’ll talk in the morning.”
“I don’t regret this,” Yami assured.
Smiling, Seto leaned forward and kissed him again, “Trust me on this, one step at a time, get some sleep.” Solidifying the finality of the situation, Seto snaked his arm under Yami’s head and drew him close, pulling the covers over them as he did so.
Sighing, system beyond overwhelmed and exhausted, Yami gave in. He was asleep faster than he thought his would be, his eyes closing and his mind drifting off the instant he relaxed against Seto.
A/N: This was…..unplanned….but I like it, so it stays J
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Exposed Shadows