Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ Don't Wanna Say Goodbye ❯ Puppy Play ( Chapter 1 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: xan_nova 
Seto needs time to think about his relationship, whether to continue it or move on.
Anime/Manga: Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 03.18.2004 | Updated On: 01.14.2009 | Pages: 1 | Words: 6.8K | Visits: 730 | Status: Work In Progress
Seto needs time to think about his relationship, whether to continue it or move on.
Anime/Manga: Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 03.18.2004 | Updated On: 01.14.2009 | Pages: 1 | Words: 6.8K | Visits: 730 | Status: Work In Progress
Chapter 1
“Joey, I love you....” he climbed out of bed and looked back at the sleeping boy; the blonde hair was mussed like always, hiding his innocent face. One could never tell that the hard-ass attitude was just a ploy, a way to protect himself from the outside world. Seto forced his self to look away, if he kept watching the puppy, he would never be able to leave. “But I can’t stay with you.” He tried to reason, reason with a sleeping person. It was far easier just abandon the boy like that than wake him and tell him. He felt the familiar burn in his eyes that refused to leave him. He knew deep inside, despite how much he loved Joey and the other way around, they would end up ending this really painfully with harsh words and a terrible fight. He slipped his jeans on to his lean form and picked up his shirt from the floor. He walked out of the cramped apartment and into the chilly autumn air, his shirt and shoes in his hands. The rain dripped miserably from the roof, it was like the heavens were weeping at his choice. Shivering, he tossed on the shoes and pulled the shirt tight around himself as he walked away from the only person he cared about since Mokuba.
The drizzling rain wrapped its cold fingers around him, pulling forth the scalding acid from his eyes. He made it to the car and collapsed into the driver’s seat, resting his forehead against the cracked steering wheel. His eyes caught sight of Joey’s sweatshirt with the school insignia on the seat beside him. He closed his eyes again and started the engine of the beat up Chevette that Joey convinced him to buy. He tossed the shirt in the back of the car so he wouldn’t have to see it as he shifted the rattletrap into reverse. Driving was still something new to him, normally he had a chauffer just take him everywhere but Joey thought it would be the best for their friendship if Seto would just act like a normal teen instead of the multi-millionaire. Seto always gave into the puppy’s whims. The apartment, the car, everything was because of that little blonde boy.
Scenery flew by as he gripped the steering wheel, his knuckles white with strain as he fought the need to cry. Despite how hard he fought, the salty acid continued to burn down his cheeks. “Damn it Seto Kaiba... he was just a gold digger.... you know he only wanted you for the money and nothing more. Stop it... stop crying.” But he couldn’t stop crying knowing that he was lying to himself. If Joey really was like that then he would have asked for more for himself. He didn’t want the car, he didn’t even want the apartment; he just wanted Seto to live the way he lived. He had no idea of where the hell to go, he couldn’t go home because he lied to Mokuba about where he was going and would have to stay gone all week. ‘Damn it, why the hell did I tell him I was going to a convention.’ He punched the steering wheel and yelped, sucking on a bruised knuckle. The car was not the place for one of his temper tantrums; the steering wheel was far from padded enough for that. He saw a shopping mall and rolled his eyes. ‘Hell no... not after the last time... shit.....’ He found himself pulling into the huge parking lot even though he told himself he wouldn’t.
The air had grown colder and the drizzle was now very wet snow flakes. Seto shivered and bit his lip; he only had on the shirt from last night and was parked too far from the doors. The silk shirt would be utterly ruined if he let the snow melt on it. He looked into the back seat and there was the discarded sweatshirt. A smile faintly was hinted at on his thin lips, it was ironic that he was trying to get away from the puppy but everything brought up his memory. He stripped off the silk shirt and looked at it, the drizzle had already brought on ruin but even so, it would still be too chilly to wear. He grabbed the sweatshirt and reluctantly pulled it on. Joey’s scent was still heavy within the fleece fabric, the sweet musky perfume of his body odor created from the long soccer practice the day before. It was as if Joey was there holding him close, mocking his tears.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Seto felt arms wrap around his waist and looked down to the raven-haired boy. He was pouting balefully. “Take me with you, if you are going to be gone for a week, take me with you. I don’t want to stay home while you are out having fun.” He wrapped his legs around one of Seto’s while the older boy packed. .Mokuba was trying his hardest to sway his brother but no amount of pouting or cute faces could change Seto’s mind. He carefully peeled his baby brother off of him and smiled to him as he knelt.
“Mokie, don’t pout like that. I am not going away forever and where I am going I am not going to have fun at. It is work, not play. Understand? I am going away only for a week so that one day I won’t have to work all the time and I can take you to the amusement park. You need to stay home so you can catch up on your school work. You slacked off too much when I was dueling to save you so you got to make up for it now.” Seto messed up the imp’s hair and found himself laughing a little at how his brother would scrunch up his face.
“But Seto..... I wanna go.... can’t we just take a tutor with us and then I can stay with you,” came the protest once again, now the stomp of a foot added for emphasis. “Please? I won’t be any trouble, I swear.” He held up his hand like he was making an oath. He almost looked too innocent but that was how he always was, practically a living breathing perfect doll, but he did have his mischievous streak at times.
“No... you are still grounded for lying to me and for cheating on your exams. If I am soft on you, then how are you going to learn? I think the best thing for you, Mokie, is to stay home and prove that you can and will behave. I don’t want any bad reports when I come home,” Seto frowned, trying to act serious with his brother but it hurt so much to see the little one on the verge of tears. Mokuba just nodded and walked out, going to his room to study. ‘Finally... I hate lying to him... I just can’t tell anyone yet.’ He finished up the packing; thankful Mokuba didn’t notice the clothes were just jeans and normal, everyday clothing. He went to say goodbye to Mokuba but the little boy was lying across his bed asleep. He just walked downed the lavish stairs of the cold feeling mansion to the waiting taxi. “Driver, take me to Robertson Heights Apartments.” He barked out the directions as the cab driver eyed him suspiciously. If it wasn’t for Seto’s conditioned responses, he would have blushed thinking of the time he would have ahead in those apartments. As the taxi pulled away from the driveway, Seto’s eyes closed and he was taken back to a warm summer day.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
School had just ended for the summer; the sky was perfect in its azure depths. Not a single cloud dared to mar the ocean of sky on a day such as this. Students from Domino High poured out the doors like a raucous stream of laughter and uniforms, it was as if a dam had broken loose and the world would now be in peril. Maybe it was, it was always said the youth of the world could either be ruin or salvation. Seto Kaiba pushed through the crowd, he was no different than the other teenagers in his want for fresh air and no responsibilities. As the throng disbursed, he walked off to the hill below the soccer field. Before he was placed in charge of Kaiba Corp, he would lie looking up at the sky until he would have to go home. Now there was never any time to daydream but today was going to be different. For once he was going to put work second to himself. He took off his trench coat and used it like a blanket to lie on. His face relaxed and the tight lines of his scowl eased into a handsome visage, the face of a young man not burdened by the adult world. He watched as birds lazily rode the currants of air like an expert surfer on the perfect curl. It felt like his body weighed a ton as it lies there, the perfume of the grass and flowers was soothing as the buzz of insects and birds threatened him with sleep. He shook his head and sat up a little. He noticed an indent in the grass further down the hill and a leg poking up from it, the foot waggling carefreely. He sat up a bit more and heard the tenor voice softly singing a little of rock opera. He had to smile a little, it was a great voice with a better song. He got up and walked down the hill to get closer to the source of his new smile.
“Yes love... Love changes everything... hands and faces, Earth and Sky...” Joey had his eyes closed, the headphones blocked out the world around him. He felt totally alone, so trapped in the sounds of the Aspects of Love soundtrack that he didn’t notice Kaiba standing slack-jawed staring at him. Joey continued to belt out the lyrics, figuring no one would hear him but Seto did hear him and was entranced. The boy looked like something out of a sweet or sinful dream, his shirt was off and his golden hair was matched by the golden tan that glowed from his shirtless, lean muscled body. Seto had heard rumors of Joey’s musical talent but this wasn’t meager talent but a true gift... but now everything about him was a mystery. Joey had opened his eyes to glance at the sky and the honey colored orbs widened in shock to see Seto’s face above his. “Oh shit Kaib, you fuckin’ scared me!” He exclaimed as he sat up and pulled his shirt back on, slipping back into his Bronx-like accent. “I was just catching some rays and my sister left this lame CD in the player, it’s not that I like it.... its jus’ stuck in my head y’know?” He quickly fumbled the excuses, hoping he could regain his dignity somehow for singing along.
Seto shrugged and his smile was lost. “And to think I was going to say you had great taste... it’s a great piece. Figures a mutt wouldn’t know great music even if it would bite his ass so hard it bled.” He watched as the boy got angry and had to laugh when he was the charm on Joey’s chain. “Mutt... is that .... A bone? You have a Doggy License on your chain?” He laughed and he read it, drawing close to Joey to get a better look. Jou forgot his anger as Seto read it out loud. “ ‘To a guard-dog brother.’ Puppy, that is really sweet, did Serenity give that to you?” All mocking tones were completely gone from his voice and it was replaced but genuine interest.
Joey nodded and smiled a little but it seemed too sad. “Yeah, she and mom have gone off to America. I am the lucky one to get to stay here,” He rolled his eyes to show how pleased he really was with the situation. “So what do you want Kaib... whip my ass at Duel Monsters again?” He pulled out his deck and faked a smile. “I have gotten a little better since we last got together so I wanna test my new skills on some one better than me.”
Seto looked for a playing mat and scratched the back of his neck a little, “Yeah sure... strange not having the card readers but I have to prove I am still better than you pup,” he found himself joking with the boy, how was it that he could relax when they were away from everyone but he would get so tense if the others were anywhere nearby. He sat down as he pulled his deck from his pocket. They sat together and played, first one losing points then the other. Seto looked at Joey and smiled, “Wow... I think you may have actually improved. But... you know how it goes, just as you think you won... I pull out a trusty card.... Blue Eyes White Dragon!” He lied down the card and Joey started laughing hard as he turned over a trap card.
“Black Hole. Sorry,” Joey mumbled out as Seto had to take all his cards back and place them into the graveyard. Seto was in shock, he didn’t even stop to think Joey would have used such a common card as that to trick him. They returned to playing and Seto did eventually defeat him. “Oh man... and I didn’t have a chance to play the newest card I got. Great game Kaib, I should figured you would whip me.”
“Well you know the old cliché, mess with the best and die like the rest. What do you have there?” He noticed Joey playing with a card he was staring at, pouting. Seto snatched it from him and looked at it. “What the... a Blue-Eyes White Dragon? This has to be a fake; I am the only person that owns that card. Where did you get it?” He handed it back to him. Joey smiled proudly as he shown off the holo print on it.
“Naw, it is just a US release of the card. It’s just a replica of the ones you have, nothing special. Serenity bought it for me as a goodbye gift. I will sure miss her; she and Ma were the only ones I actually got along with.” He replaced the card in his deck and looked at Seto who just lain back in the grass beside him. Joey shrugged and relaxed as he fell into the sanctuary of grass and sky. “So... why are you being so nice to me Kaib, need me slash some one’s tires?”
This made Seto laugh; he forgot Joey was once in a gang. He just wanted to hang out with Joey for a while. They shared similar likes and strong bonds to their siblings. “Sounds tempting but not now. Can’t I just slum with you mutt? You really have a great voice and there’s nothing to be ashamed of for singing a song from a musical. I like Andrew Lloyd Webber’s work; he is a masterful genius at making opera cool.” He focused his eyes on the birds riding the lazy air currents again and was unaware of Joey’s stare. “It’s cool that you now have Blue Eyes as your own.”
Joey never noticed before how normal Seto really was before. The slightly older teen used to intimidate him but now that his eyes weren’t shadowed by his hair, he was really a normal guy like Yugi and Tristan. “Hey man, you like opera and classical music? Too cool... I thought I was the only one that was into that stuff. I want to be a musician one day, get to hang out with rich snobs like you all the time. I guess that is why I am jealous of you. You have it all; a nice place, a brother, and an adopted father that loved you, plus lots of money. You can buy anything you want... never worrying.” He sighed and looked up to the sky.
“To put it a way you would understand Jou... it sucks a monkey’s rancid ball,” Seto winced hearing the hard laughter at the comment. “Well it does, I have no friends because as you say, I am a rich snob. I just work my ass off, play cards in tournament, and take care of my brother. That is my life; after dad died I took over for him. Ummm... do you think it is possible one day you could come over and trade cards with Mokie and myself?” He rolled to his side to look at Joey and the blonde nodded and smiled. "But you had one thing wrong, my father hated me and Mokie... I blackmailed him into adopting us."
“Sure man, not tonight though. I have to go to home then work but I would love to see your place. I promise I won’t steal from you, I am outta that business. Plus man, I see you as one of my friends. I would never screw over one of my friends like that.” He turned and looked at the brunette. Seto had a somewhat sad look on his face and Jou moved closer. “Hey, what’s eating at you? You look like your about to cry, did I say something wrong?” He whispered as he looked to Seto concerned. He reached out and touched the stiff shoulder of the CEO.
Seto closed his eyes and let out a faint sigh. The touch on his shoulder radiated more warmth and gentleness than anything he ever knew. It was as if the boy was the sun himself, or a real puppy. “I am fine, just not used to having some one care about me. It’s just odd for me and caught me off guard.” He gave a smile and sat up. “Well speaking of work, I gotta be off. Thanks for everything...” He picked up his coat and climbed the hill as Joey pulled his shirt back on, following after. As Seto climbed into the back of the luxury car, he looked back at Joey trudging off down the pavement home. He smiled and climbed in, the car pulled away from the curb and off to the headquarters of Kaiba Corporation.
Joey walked with his hands in his pockets, thinking of the sound of Seto’s laugh. He used to swear the guy was the biggest creep he ever knew but today he seems more like a neglected little boy that just wanted a friend. ‘Hmm... best not tell the others about this, they will just think I made it up or dreamt it. Maybe I did, the sun always makes me sleepy... I probably did just dream it. That is why he was so good looking.’ Jou froze his eyes wide at his last thought. “Bullshit...” he had to whisper that out loud. ‘Did I just think Seto Kaiba was cute? I thought I was straight... but... I haven’t even noticed any girls that much other than Mai and that is different. Oh shit... if I am gay then I will be in a shit load of trouble. I can’t love Seto; he will just think I am some kind of gold digger. Shit!’ He punched a sign before a police officer yelled at him. He grimaced and took off running, not stopping until he got home. He walked into his room and collapsed on his bed, crumpling magazines beneath his body. He groaned and reached out to a Fortune magazine that was on his pillow and reread the article on the youngest CEO. He never wanted to tell anyone, but he looked up to Kaiba. He was everything Joey strived to be and felt he could never achieve. “Dream on Jounochi... he probably invited you over just to rub your face in his wealth... oh hell... I will go over there nonetheless. I guess just seeing the mansion up close would be reward enough for me.” He tore out the picture of the Kaiba brothers and taped it onto a board with other pictures of Kaiba. He walked to his work uniform and got changed, Mai was supposed to be coming to get him soon. He looked in the mirror and adjusted the dorky hat over his hair. “Fame and fortune.... here I come.... as a pizza boy.” He laughed and walked out of the rat-hole to sit on the stoop until his ride came. Once he got to work he would be making deliveries in a company vehicle since his father totaled the car his mom got for him. He pulled out a small notebook and jotted down some lyrics that were tormenting his mind as he waited. Soon a little orange car pulled up and honked. Joey stood and walked to the car, climbing into the passenger side. “Hey, thanks Mai, I really can’t thank you enough for hauling my ass back and forth. I can give you some cash tonight or tomorrow for gas. I owe you that at least.” She laughed and shook her head as he offered to pay her.
Jou, how long have you known me? A long time... that’s how long. Don’t go offering to pay me, friendships have no cost. If you want to make it up to me, then eat with me after you get off. I will let you pay,” she turned on the radio and drummed her fingers on the steering wheel to the beat of the music. She had her makeup off and was just in baggy jeans and an old band’s t-shirt. She looked like your regular college girl, not the psycho ex she used to be. He couldn’t but wonder what it was she wanted to talk about at dinner but he felt it could be too good. With his luck it would be to get back together. Oh he loved Mai but it wasn’t the kind of love that lasted. He wasn’t in-love with her and neither was she in love with him. They were really just good friends with slight bonuses. She was 4 years older than him and would baby sit him when they were younger. She was also the one that got him off the street when he ran with a gang. They dated for a long time but it never really got serious but one time. She was confused and convinced he was the only one she could ever love and became obsessive of him. He looked at her and really liked how she looked when she wasn’t all made up. She wore makeup because she was so self-conscience of herself and felt she had to hide from everyone behind the mask of color. He could tell that today she must have been in a pretty great mood to leave without even lipstick on. “Hey daydreamer, going to get out? We are here,” she shook his shoulder gently and frowned.
“What... oh thank you Mai, I guess I should have went straight home and took a nap. Pick me up around 9 and we will go eat.” He leaned over and kissed her like always. It was just a custom of theirs since even before they went out. He got out and walked into work, taking a key ring off the board. He leaned on the wall as he waited to deliver the orders. He didn't have a long wait until some boxes were shoved in his arms and the ticket with directions in his hand. He sighed as he delivered the pizzas. The night was going to be a long one but it was more money for cards and things he really needed. The night was filled with taking the greasy pizzas to run-down houses and trying to scrape by with the lousy tips the customers gave. It was beginning to get late and Joey just rested in his car, his eyes closed with his forehead against the steering wheel. He didn't feel like heading back to the restaurant but he had to if he wanted to get paid. He drove back and saw an order waiting for him.
"Hey, last one for the night. We are closing up early tonight," the manager smiled and sent Joey away. He climbed into his car and looked at the address, "Well, I guess I will just have to wait on Mai tonight. Crap... this job doesn't pay enough." As he drove toward the address given, his mind in deep thought. He knew if his paycheck didn't pick up, he would be in serious trouble for rent money. Before he known it, he had pulled up to a mansion and blinked hard. "No way... Kaiba Mansion?" He turned off the engine and got out of the rattletrap car, carrying the pizza's up the stairs to the front door and nudged the door bell. He heard Mokuba's voice then Seto's telling the young boy to get back, warning him about the time he was kidnapped. The door opened to a stern faced Seto then the face softened.
"Oh, come in. Please follow me to the tv room, my hands are full so I can't take the boxes myself," Seto explained as he led the way through the lavish halls. Joey was in awe, never had he actually expected the home of one of his heroes to look this amazing. He walked into the tv room and set the pizza boxes on the table Mokuba pointed to. "Thank you so much, I got home from work just to learn Mokie didn't eat dinner yet and I just hoped Pizza Cabin would deliver this far. Can you hang on a moment, I will give you a tip or gas money... whichever it is called." Seto walked to his coat and looked for his wallet.
"Hey no hurry, I just got off work. All I have to do is meet with Mai about 9 and that is still a long ways now. Seto... you have an amazing home. I guess I should have figured so, seeing that you are a millionaire and champion at Duel Monsters," the blonde chattered as he looked around. The television was set on a popular show Joey used to watch when he was a little younger but was ashamed that he still liked stuff like that. He listened to Mokuba repeating the catch phrase of the comedic villians and laughed a little. Mokuba looked up to Joey and smiled. Jou returned the smile and noticed an unfinished game of Pocket Monsters. "I used to play Pokemon when I was younger, I think I still have most of my cards. They are all bent up so I can't sell them and Yugi isn't into them so I don't play anymore. I was really into it too... I have all the movies and episodes, a few of the stuffed animals and several posters," Joey muttered and Mokuba's jaw dropped. He had never found some one who liked the stuff as much as he. "I have alot of the things from America even though they had a bad tendancy to cut up the story and mess up the translation." He looked down to Mokuba who was bouncing around. "Oh I am sorry, I shouldn't keep talking during the show." He felt ashamed of himself until he felt a hand clamp on his shoulder.
"Here you go, why don't you play him at a game sometime. Like I said before, I was hoping you could come by and just hang out with me and Mokie," Seto handed him a few bills before collapsing on the couch. He opened the top box and looked up to Joey. "So... pup, going to stand all night, leave, or join us in eating? You look like a scared mutt standing like that." Indignantly, Jou sat and took a thin slice for himself. Slowly he felt himself relax around the wealthy kids. "Well get this Mokie, they told me if I kept going off to play in tournaments, they would try and take the company from me again. I would like to see them try and do that to us. Even Jou could run the company better than those old mongrels. They wouldn't know an idea from a flea." Joey choked a little when Seto made the joke. He was really having a fun time with the brothers that he wasn't paying attention to the time at all. He heard the old clock chiming and stood.
"Oh man... I wasn't watching the time. Guys, this was the greatest time I had in a long time. I hope I can return and hang out longer some other time. Right now I better hurry before Mai skins me for being late, she wants to 'talk about something'," He smiled to the brothers and started for the door. Seto got up and walked Joey out, slipping a folded piece of paper into his hand. Jou looked at him oddly and said goodnight, putting the paper in his pocket. He started the engine and drove away from the beautiful home. He sped to the pizza place and saw the kitchen window open a little and grimaced, he hated throwing the car keys in but with the doors locked up he had no choice. He walked around front and Mai was sitting in her car waiting. "Sorry I am late, I am not real hungry."
Mai wiped the crust of pizza sauce from Jou's lip and mock frowned. "Well genius, I have your paycheck. Your boss trusted me with it although I should have forged it and took myself somewhere great to eat. Where were you other than eating?" She watched him collapse in the car. "Well? Where were you? You said you would take me to eat, I know the perfect place and it won't break you." As he talked about his night, she drove to a small restaurant. She was a bit suprised to hear he was with the Kaiba's. "I thought you hated Seto, what happened?" She pulled into a drive-in diner and turned off the engine.
Joey stretched a little in the cramped car and ordered cheese fries and a cheesecake shake before starting to explain the night to her. "Well you know how I was working and all? He ordered a pizza and since I just got off work he invited me to stay and talk to him. I know you won't believe me but he is pretty normal, just rich. We just hung out, talking about the card game and I played Pocket Monsters with Mokie." He shrugged like it was nothing new to go over to your rivals house and play at buddy buddy relationships. "I had a great time, he is really a nice guy, I think it is just that he feels he must close himself off to guard his feelings. I guess that is money for you." He got his fries and started to eat them slowly, just thinking to himself, daydreaming of that afternoon. The sunlight had illuminated Seto's perfect face, taking away the cold hard angles and replacing it with the most fragile, timid features.
"Joey... I asked you to come to dinner with me for a reason," Mai paused, looking at her friend. "I know we have always just counted on each other but I have decided we really need to stop playing these games with each other." Jou looked at her confused. She was the only girl he understood and even despite the breakup, they were always open with each other. "You need to find a new love. Some one who will sweep you off your feet and let you be the puppy, spoiled and loved beyond belief. You are always so loving and caring, you put up fronts of being a tough guy but you listen to soft rock and cry to 'My Immortal'." Joey just blinked and winced, he sounded so weak when she put it that way. He was sensitive yes, but never some weakling. "Jou... you need a man in your life. I know you aren't straight and that is okay, that is one reason I thought I loved you back then. I was looking for something safe and when it dissolved into this friendship... I was comforted in knowing I had a friend that liked me for me," she took his hand as she spoke. He felt his eyes well up but the amber eyes didn't shed one betraying tear.
"Mai... I am not gay I don't think. I just haven't found no one to love. You were the only cool girl I knew and now you are more like a sister to me. I just dunno... a man? I have never once thought about playing for the other team, what if everyone knows? They would mock me and hate me. I can't just come out and tell everyone, 'Hey guys, I wanna fuck Seto Kaiba!' .... Oh god.... why did I think of his name when that popped out," he sucked hard at the shake as he pondered it all, had he just admitted to Mai his deep crush on Seto? He shuddered to think what if she was completely right about him being a fag. His old gang would mug some one if they were just rumoured to be swishy. But the more he thought of Seto in the sunlight, the more his heart ached to see him again. He put his hand into his pocket and found the folded scrap of paper. He took it out as Mai just watched him and looked at it. " 'Home: 534-2341 Cell: 634-7425 Office: 423-0125 call me anytime, we need to talk more. Seto' Shit... Mai... think I actually may love him? I don't want to look like I am just after his money. Damn him for looking like he does... damn him for talking to me and for teasing me."
Mai started to laugh, her thoughts were completely comfirmed. "Welcome to your first love, it's a bitch and will not get any better. First of all you need to remember who you are dealing with, Seto 'Fuck You' Kaiba. You say he seems shy and you just coming right out and telling him that you want his body isn't going to fly. What I would do is this, call him up; he gave you the numbers for a reason so figure out what he wants. Let it grow into friendship, do things together and learn more about the real him. Eventually it will become clear if he wants you as a friend, love, or what not. Just listen to your heart and mind. Never focus on his money, try to steer clear of his wealth and he will see you are for real. But..." She paused and looked at Jou, she could tell his feelings for Kaiba were real and the next part was going to hurt to even think about. "But remember this also... Seto Kaiba is a rich and powerful man, he maybe just using you for his own amusement. It does happen, and it happens to the sweetest people. I don't want you to get hurt but that is part of love." She watched as Jou's head sunk, he tried to stifle the onslaught of tears by drowning it with the thickness of the shake. "Please don't be upset, I didn't mean for it to sound so harsh. I was hoping it was with some one a little more obtainable but he isn't impossible. I will help you win him over."
"Mai... why are you doing this for me? I mean... really... you are normally cold if you aren't center stage in some one's life. Did you find some guy to replace me?" He looked at her, finally having composed himself once again. She shook her head and smiled a little. She laughed softly as she leaned her head back. "What is so funny Valentine?"
"There is no man in my life but I have fallen in love. She made me realize we were using each other as an excuse for the way we really are. Isis is such a beautiful woman inside and out. She is kind and perfect, the female version of you. She told me that it was clear I was just confused about my sexuality and so were you. Do you think I am crazy for loving her? Fuck what do I care... she loves me right now and that is what I need," Mai sighed, closing her eyes. She had really changed from the conceited bitch to a easy going girl. Jou hugged her and smiled as he reasured her that she should follow her heart. They finished their food and conversation before she drove him back home. "Puppy... take it easy okay? Just think about everything we talked about, follow your heart and he may love you. You deserve the best in your life and he could give it to you. Goodnight." They went their seperate ways and he walked into the house, loud snoring signalling his father was drunk asleep in the living room. Jou covered up his father with a sheet and went to his own room. He walked to the bed and sat down, flicking on an old Snoopy lamp that he had since he was little. He took out the phone numbers again and smiled.
"I can't believe it... I just can't believe Mai is a lesbian and I am gay... that is so ironic. At least now I know I wasn't dreaming of after school. Hnnn.... Seto.... don't worry, I will call you... even if it is so you mock me. I just have to talk to you again, see those stern eyes... damn it... you can play games with my mind and heart and I wouldn't ever care..." he looked at the photos that he had collected but none of them shown the real person, the teenager that laughed and fiddled with his fingers when talking. Jou turned out the lamp, lights from the streets illuminating the haunting eyes of the only man in his dreams. Slowly his eyes drifted shut and warmth of the summer sun seemed to wash over his exhausted body. Meanwhile across town, Seto watched the credits of a movie with a sleeping Mokuba in his arms. He looked down at his brother and smiled. The pup left his work hat and the precious little boy had worn it since then. His arm was asleep from laying on it so he decided he would just crash on the couch with Mokie. The greasy smell of the hat contrasted with a warm, earthy scent that wasn't familiar. Seto sniffed at the hat again and saw a blade of grass imbedded in the adjustment holes. He smiled, the scent was of Joey, a warm scent that was like grass, sweat, and soap mixed with pizza. He laughed and watched as another movie came on. He would have reached for the remote to change the channel but he couldn't reach it without waking his brother so he drifted into sleep, wondering if Joey would actually call.
“Joey, I love you....” he climbed out of bed and looked back at the sleeping boy; the blonde hair was mussed like always, hiding his innocent face. One could never tell that the hard-ass attitude was just a ploy, a way to protect himself from the outside world. Seto forced his self to look away, if he kept watching the puppy, he would never be able to leave. “But I can’t stay with you.” He tried to reason, reason with a sleeping person. It was far easier just abandon the boy like that than wake him and tell him. He felt the familiar burn in his eyes that refused to leave him. He knew deep inside, despite how much he loved Joey and the other way around, they would end up ending this really painfully with harsh words and a terrible fight. He slipped his jeans on to his lean form and picked up his shirt from the floor. He walked out of the cramped apartment and into the chilly autumn air, his shirt and shoes in his hands. The rain dripped miserably from the roof, it was like the heavens were weeping at his choice. Shivering, he tossed on the shoes and pulled the shirt tight around himself as he walked away from the only person he cared about since Mokuba.
The drizzling rain wrapped its cold fingers around him, pulling forth the scalding acid from his eyes. He made it to the car and collapsed into the driver’s seat, resting his forehead against the cracked steering wheel. His eyes caught sight of Joey’s sweatshirt with the school insignia on the seat beside him. He closed his eyes again and started the engine of the beat up Chevette that Joey convinced him to buy. He tossed the shirt in the back of the car so he wouldn’t have to see it as he shifted the rattletrap into reverse. Driving was still something new to him, normally he had a chauffer just take him everywhere but Joey thought it would be the best for their friendship if Seto would just act like a normal teen instead of the multi-millionaire. Seto always gave into the puppy’s whims. The apartment, the car, everything was because of that little blonde boy.
Scenery flew by as he gripped the steering wheel, his knuckles white with strain as he fought the need to cry. Despite how hard he fought, the salty acid continued to burn down his cheeks. “Damn it Seto Kaiba... he was just a gold digger.... you know he only wanted you for the money and nothing more. Stop it... stop crying.” But he couldn’t stop crying knowing that he was lying to himself. If Joey really was like that then he would have asked for more for himself. He didn’t want the car, he didn’t even want the apartment; he just wanted Seto to live the way he lived. He had no idea of where the hell to go, he couldn’t go home because he lied to Mokuba about where he was going and would have to stay gone all week. ‘Damn it, why the hell did I tell him I was going to a convention.’ He punched the steering wheel and yelped, sucking on a bruised knuckle. The car was not the place for one of his temper tantrums; the steering wheel was far from padded enough for that. He saw a shopping mall and rolled his eyes. ‘Hell no... not after the last time... shit.....’ He found himself pulling into the huge parking lot even though he told himself he wouldn’t.
The air had grown colder and the drizzle was now very wet snow flakes. Seto shivered and bit his lip; he only had on the shirt from last night and was parked too far from the doors. The silk shirt would be utterly ruined if he let the snow melt on it. He looked into the back seat and there was the discarded sweatshirt. A smile faintly was hinted at on his thin lips, it was ironic that he was trying to get away from the puppy but everything brought up his memory. He stripped off the silk shirt and looked at it, the drizzle had already brought on ruin but even so, it would still be too chilly to wear. He grabbed the sweatshirt and reluctantly pulled it on. Joey’s scent was still heavy within the fleece fabric, the sweet musky perfume of his body odor created from the long soccer practice the day before. It was as if Joey was there holding him close, mocking his tears.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Seto felt arms wrap around his waist and looked down to the raven-haired boy. He was pouting balefully. “Take me with you, if you are going to be gone for a week, take me with you. I don’t want to stay home while you are out having fun.” He wrapped his legs around one of Seto’s while the older boy packed. .Mokuba was trying his hardest to sway his brother but no amount of pouting or cute faces could change Seto’s mind. He carefully peeled his baby brother off of him and smiled to him as he knelt.
“Mokie, don’t pout like that. I am not going away forever and where I am going I am not going to have fun at. It is work, not play. Understand? I am going away only for a week so that one day I won’t have to work all the time and I can take you to the amusement park. You need to stay home so you can catch up on your school work. You slacked off too much when I was dueling to save you so you got to make up for it now.” Seto messed up the imp’s hair and found himself laughing a little at how his brother would scrunch up his face.
“But Seto..... I wanna go.... can’t we just take a tutor with us and then I can stay with you,” came the protest once again, now the stomp of a foot added for emphasis. “Please? I won’t be any trouble, I swear.” He held up his hand like he was making an oath. He almost looked too innocent but that was how he always was, practically a living breathing perfect doll, but he did have his mischievous streak at times.
“No... you are still grounded for lying to me and for cheating on your exams. If I am soft on you, then how are you going to learn? I think the best thing for you, Mokie, is to stay home and prove that you can and will behave. I don’t want any bad reports when I come home,” Seto frowned, trying to act serious with his brother but it hurt so much to see the little one on the verge of tears. Mokuba just nodded and walked out, going to his room to study. ‘Finally... I hate lying to him... I just can’t tell anyone yet.’ He finished up the packing; thankful Mokuba didn’t notice the clothes were just jeans and normal, everyday clothing. He went to say goodbye to Mokuba but the little boy was lying across his bed asleep. He just walked downed the lavish stairs of the cold feeling mansion to the waiting taxi. “Driver, take me to Robertson Heights Apartments.” He barked out the directions as the cab driver eyed him suspiciously. If it wasn’t for Seto’s conditioned responses, he would have blushed thinking of the time he would have ahead in those apartments. As the taxi pulled away from the driveway, Seto’s eyes closed and he was taken back to a warm summer day.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
School had just ended for the summer; the sky was perfect in its azure depths. Not a single cloud dared to mar the ocean of sky on a day such as this. Students from Domino High poured out the doors like a raucous stream of laughter and uniforms, it was as if a dam had broken loose and the world would now be in peril. Maybe it was, it was always said the youth of the world could either be ruin or salvation. Seto Kaiba pushed through the crowd, he was no different than the other teenagers in his want for fresh air and no responsibilities. As the throng disbursed, he walked off to the hill below the soccer field. Before he was placed in charge of Kaiba Corp, he would lie looking up at the sky until he would have to go home. Now there was never any time to daydream but today was going to be different. For once he was going to put work second to himself. He took off his trench coat and used it like a blanket to lie on. His face relaxed and the tight lines of his scowl eased into a handsome visage, the face of a young man not burdened by the adult world. He watched as birds lazily rode the currants of air like an expert surfer on the perfect curl. It felt like his body weighed a ton as it lies there, the perfume of the grass and flowers was soothing as the buzz of insects and birds threatened him with sleep. He shook his head and sat up a little. He noticed an indent in the grass further down the hill and a leg poking up from it, the foot waggling carefreely. He sat up a bit more and heard the tenor voice softly singing a little of rock opera. He had to smile a little, it was a great voice with a better song. He got up and walked down the hill to get closer to the source of his new smile.
“Yes love... Love changes everything... hands and faces, Earth and Sky...” Joey had his eyes closed, the headphones blocked out the world around him. He felt totally alone, so trapped in the sounds of the Aspects of Love soundtrack that he didn’t notice Kaiba standing slack-jawed staring at him. Joey continued to belt out the lyrics, figuring no one would hear him but Seto did hear him and was entranced. The boy looked like something out of a sweet or sinful dream, his shirt was off and his golden hair was matched by the golden tan that glowed from his shirtless, lean muscled body. Seto had heard rumors of Joey’s musical talent but this wasn’t meager talent but a true gift... but now everything about him was a mystery. Joey had opened his eyes to glance at the sky and the honey colored orbs widened in shock to see Seto’s face above his. “Oh shit Kaib, you fuckin’ scared me!” He exclaimed as he sat up and pulled his shirt back on, slipping back into his Bronx-like accent. “I was just catching some rays and my sister left this lame CD in the player, it’s not that I like it.... its jus’ stuck in my head y’know?” He quickly fumbled the excuses, hoping he could regain his dignity somehow for singing along.
Seto shrugged and his smile was lost. “And to think I was going to say you had great taste... it’s a great piece. Figures a mutt wouldn’t know great music even if it would bite his ass so hard it bled.” He watched as the boy got angry and had to laugh when he was the charm on Joey’s chain. “Mutt... is that .... A bone? You have a Doggy License on your chain?” He laughed and he read it, drawing close to Joey to get a better look. Jou forgot his anger as Seto read it out loud. “ ‘To a guard-dog brother.’ Puppy, that is really sweet, did Serenity give that to you?” All mocking tones were completely gone from his voice and it was replaced but genuine interest.
Joey nodded and smiled a little but it seemed too sad. “Yeah, she and mom have gone off to America. I am the lucky one to get to stay here,” He rolled his eyes to show how pleased he really was with the situation. “So what do you want Kaib... whip my ass at Duel Monsters again?” He pulled out his deck and faked a smile. “I have gotten a little better since we last got together so I wanna test my new skills on some one better than me.”
Seto looked for a playing mat and scratched the back of his neck a little, “Yeah sure... strange not having the card readers but I have to prove I am still better than you pup,” he found himself joking with the boy, how was it that he could relax when they were away from everyone but he would get so tense if the others were anywhere nearby. He sat down as he pulled his deck from his pocket. They sat together and played, first one losing points then the other. Seto looked at Joey and smiled, “Wow... I think you may have actually improved. But... you know how it goes, just as you think you won... I pull out a trusty card.... Blue Eyes White Dragon!” He lied down the card and Joey started laughing hard as he turned over a trap card.
“Black Hole. Sorry,” Joey mumbled out as Seto had to take all his cards back and place them into the graveyard. Seto was in shock, he didn’t even stop to think Joey would have used such a common card as that to trick him. They returned to playing and Seto did eventually defeat him. “Oh man... and I didn’t have a chance to play the newest card I got. Great game Kaib, I should figured you would whip me.”
“Well you know the old cliché, mess with the best and die like the rest. What do you have there?” He noticed Joey playing with a card he was staring at, pouting. Seto snatched it from him and looked at it. “What the... a Blue-Eyes White Dragon? This has to be a fake; I am the only person that owns that card. Where did you get it?” He handed it back to him. Joey smiled proudly as he shown off the holo print on it.
“Naw, it is just a US release of the card. It’s just a replica of the ones you have, nothing special. Serenity bought it for me as a goodbye gift. I will sure miss her; she and Ma were the only ones I actually got along with.” He replaced the card in his deck and looked at Seto who just lain back in the grass beside him. Joey shrugged and relaxed as he fell into the sanctuary of grass and sky. “So... why are you being so nice to me Kaib, need me slash some one’s tires?”
This made Seto laugh; he forgot Joey was once in a gang. He just wanted to hang out with Joey for a while. They shared similar likes and strong bonds to their siblings. “Sounds tempting but not now. Can’t I just slum with you mutt? You really have a great voice and there’s nothing to be ashamed of for singing a song from a musical. I like Andrew Lloyd Webber’s work; he is a masterful genius at making opera cool.” He focused his eyes on the birds riding the lazy air currents again and was unaware of Joey’s stare. “It’s cool that you now have Blue Eyes as your own.”
Joey never noticed before how normal Seto really was before. The slightly older teen used to intimidate him but now that his eyes weren’t shadowed by his hair, he was really a normal guy like Yugi and Tristan. “Hey man, you like opera and classical music? Too cool... I thought I was the only one that was into that stuff. I want to be a musician one day, get to hang out with rich snobs like you all the time. I guess that is why I am jealous of you. You have it all; a nice place, a brother, and an adopted father that loved you, plus lots of money. You can buy anything you want... never worrying.” He sighed and looked up to the sky.
“To put it a way you would understand Jou... it sucks a monkey’s rancid ball,” Seto winced hearing the hard laughter at the comment. “Well it does, I have no friends because as you say, I am a rich snob. I just work my ass off, play cards in tournament, and take care of my brother. That is my life; after dad died I took over for him. Ummm... do you think it is possible one day you could come over and trade cards with Mokie and myself?” He rolled to his side to look at Joey and the blonde nodded and smiled. "But you had one thing wrong, my father hated me and Mokie... I blackmailed him into adopting us."
“Sure man, not tonight though. I have to go to home then work but I would love to see your place. I promise I won’t steal from you, I am outta that business. Plus man, I see you as one of my friends. I would never screw over one of my friends like that.” He turned and looked at the brunette. Seto had a somewhat sad look on his face and Jou moved closer. “Hey, what’s eating at you? You look like your about to cry, did I say something wrong?” He whispered as he looked to Seto concerned. He reached out and touched the stiff shoulder of the CEO.
Seto closed his eyes and let out a faint sigh. The touch on his shoulder radiated more warmth and gentleness than anything he ever knew. It was as if the boy was the sun himself, or a real puppy. “I am fine, just not used to having some one care about me. It’s just odd for me and caught me off guard.” He gave a smile and sat up. “Well speaking of work, I gotta be off. Thanks for everything...” He picked up his coat and climbed the hill as Joey pulled his shirt back on, following after. As Seto climbed into the back of the luxury car, he looked back at Joey trudging off down the pavement home. He smiled and climbed in, the car pulled away from the curb and off to the headquarters of Kaiba Corporation.
Joey walked with his hands in his pockets, thinking of the sound of Seto’s laugh. He used to swear the guy was the biggest creep he ever knew but today he seems more like a neglected little boy that just wanted a friend. ‘Hmm... best not tell the others about this, they will just think I made it up or dreamt it. Maybe I did, the sun always makes me sleepy... I probably did just dream it. That is why he was so good looking.’ Jou froze his eyes wide at his last thought. “Bullshit...” he had to whisper that out loud. ‘Did I just think Seto Kaiba was cute? I thought I was straight... but... I haven’t even noticed any girls that much other than Mai and that is different. Oh shit... if I am gay then I will be in a shit load of trouble. I can’t love Seto; he will just think I am some kind of gold digger. Shit!’ He punched a sign before a police officer yelled at him. He grimaced and took off running, not stopping until he got home. He walked into his room and collapsed on his bed, crumpling magazines beneath his body. He groaned and reached out to a Fortune magazine that was on his pillow and reread the article on the youngest CEO. He never wanted to tell anyone, but he looked up to Kaiba. He was everything Joey strived to be and felt he could never achieve. “Dream on Jounochi... he probably invited you over just to rub your face in his wealth... oh hell... I will go over there nonetheless. I guess just seeing the mansion up close would be reward enough for me.” He tore out the picture of the Kaiba brothers and taped it onto a board with other pictures of Kaiba. He walked to his work uniform and got changed, Mai was supposed to be coming to get him soon. He looked in the mirror and adjusted the dorky hat over his hair. “Fame and fortune.... here I come.... as a pizza boy.” He laughed and walked out of the rat-hole to sit on the stoop until his ride came. Once he got to work he would be making deliveries in a company vehicle since his father totaled the car his mom got for him. He pulled out a small notebook and jotted down some lyrics that were tormenting his mind as he waited. Soon a little orange car pulled up and honked. Joey stood and walked to the car, climbing into the passenger side. “Hey, thanks Mai, I really can’t thank you enough for hauling my ass back and forth. I can give you some cash tonight or tomorrow for gas. I owe you that at least.” She laughed and shook her head as he offered to pay her.
Jou, how long have you known me? A long time... that’s how long. Don’t go offering to pay me, friendships have no cost. If you want to make it up to me, then eat with me after you get off. I will let you pay,” she turned on the radio and drummed her fingers on the steering wheel to the beat of the music. She had her makeup off and was just in baggy jeans and an old band’s t-shirt. She looked like your regular college girl, not the psycho ex she used to be. He couldn’t but wonder what it was she wanted to talk about at dinner but he felt it could be too good. With his luck it would be to get back together. Oh he loved Mai but it wasn’t the kind of love that lasted. He wasn’t in-love with her and neither was she in love with him. They were really just good friends with slight bonuses. She was 4 years older than him and would baby sit him when they were younger. She was also the one that got him off the street when he ran with a gang. They dated for a long time but it never really got serious but one time. She was confused and convinced he was the only one she could ever love and became obsessive of him. He looked at her and really liked how she looked when she wasn’t all made up. She wore makeup because she was so self-conscience of herself and felt she had to hide from everyone behind the mask of color. He could tell that today she must have been in a pretty great mood to leave without even lipstick on. “Hey daydreamer, going to get out? We are here,” she shook his shoulder gently and frowned.
“What... oh thank you Mai, I guess I should have went straight home and took a nap. Pick me up around 9 and we will go eat.” He leaned over and kissed her like always. It was just a custom of theirs since even before they went out. He got out and walked into work, taking a key ring off the board. He leaned on the wall as he waited to deliver the orders. He didn't have a long wait until some boxes were shoved in his arms and the ticket with directions in his hand. He sighed as he delivered the pizzas. The night was going to be a long one but it was more money for cards and things he really needed. The night was filled with taking the greasy pizzas to run-down houses and trying to scrape by with the lousy tips the customers gave. It was beginning to get late and Joey just rested in his car, his eyes closed with his forehead against the steering wheel. He didn't feel like heading back to the restaurant but he had to if he wanted to get paid. He drove back and saw an order waiting for him.
"Hey, last one for the night. We are closing up early tonight," the manager smiled and sent Joey away. He climbed into his car and looked at the address, "Well, I guess I will just have to wait on Mai tonight. Crap... this job doesn't pay enough." As he drove toward the address given, his mind in deep thought. He knew if his paycheck didn't pick up, he would be in serious trouble for rent money. Before he known it, he had pulled up to a mansion and blinked hard. "No way... Kaiba Mansion?" He turned off the engine and got out of the rattletrap car, carrying the pizza's up the stairs to the front door and nudged the door bell. He heard Mokuba's voice then Seto's telling the young boy to get back, warning him about the time he was kidnapped. The door opened to a stern faced Seto then the face softened.
"Oh, come in. Please follow me to the tv room, my hands are full so I can't take the boxes myself," Seto explained as he led the way through the lavish halls. Joey was in awe, never had he actually expected the home of one of his heroes to look this amazing. He walked into the tv room and set the pizza boxes on the table Mokuba pointed to. "Thank you so much, I got home from work just to learn Mokie didn't eat dinner yet and I just hoped Pizza Cabin would deliver this far. Can you hang on a moment, I will give you a tip or gas money... whichever it is called." Seto walked to his coat and looked for his wallet.
"Hey no hurry, I just got off work. All I have to do is meet with Mai about 9 and that is still a long ways now. Seto... you have an amazing home. I guess I should have figured so, seeing that you are a millionaire and champion at Duel Monsters," the blonde chattered as he looked around. The television was set on a popular show Joey used to watch when he was a little younger but was ashamed that he still liked stuff like that. He listened to Mokuba repeating the catch phrase of the comedic villians and laughed a little. Mokuba looked up to Joey and smiled. Jou returned the smile and noticed an unfinished game of Pocket Monsters. "I used to play Pokemon when I was younger, I think I still have most of my cards. They are all bent up so I can't sell them and Yugi isn't into them so I don't play anymore. I was really into it too... I have all the movies and episodes, a few of the stuffed animals and several posters," Joey muttered and Mokuba's jaw dropped. He had never found some one who liked the stuff as much as he. "I have alot of the things from America even though they had a bad tendancy to cut up the story and mess up the translation." He looked down to Mokuba who was bouncing around. "Oh I am sorry, I shouldn't keep talking during the show." He felt ashamed of himself until he felt a hand clamp on his shoulder.
"Here you go, why don't you play him at a game sometime. Like I said before, I was hoping you could come by and just hang out with me and Mokie," Seto handed him a few bills before collapsing on the couch. He opened the top box and looked up to Joey. "So... pup, going to stand all night, leave, or join us in eating? You look like a scared mutt standing like that." Indignantly, Jou sat and took a thin slice for himself. Slowly he felt himself relax around the wealthy kids. "Well get this Mokie, they told me if I kept going off to play in tournaments, they would try and take the company from me again. I would like to see them try and do that to us. Even Jou could run the company better than those old mongrels. They wouldn't know an idea from a flea." Joey choked a little when Seto made the joke. He was really having a fun time with the brothers that he wasn't paying attention to the time at all. He heard the old clock chiming and stood.
"Oh man... I wasn't watching the time. Guys, this was the greatest time I had in a long time. I hope I can return and hang out longer some other time. Right now I better hurry before Mai skins me for being late, she wants to 'talk about something'," He smiled to the brothers and started for the door. Seto got up and walked Joey out, slipping a folded piece of paper into his hand. Jou looked at him oddly and said goodnight, putting the paper in his pocket. He started the engine and drove away from the beautiful home. He sped to the pizza place and saw the kitchen window open a little and grimaced, he hated throwing the car keys in but with the doors locked up he had no choice. He walked around front and Mai was sitting in her car waiting. "Sorry I am late, I am not real hungry."
Mai wiped the crust of pizza sauce from Jou's lip and mock frowned. "Well genius, I have your paycheck. Your boss trusted me with it although I should have forged it and took myself somewhere great to eat. Where were you other than eating?" She watched him collapse in the car. "Well? Where were you? You said you would take me to eat, I know the perfect place and it won't break you." As he talked about his night, she drove to a small restaurant. She was a bit suprised to hear he was with the Kaiba's. "I thought you hated Seto, what happened?" She pulled into a drive-in diner and turned off the engine.
Joey stretched a little in the cramped car and ordered cheese fries and a cheesecake shake before starting to explain the night to her. "Well you know how I was working and all? He ordered a pizza and since I just got off work he invited me to stay and talk to him. I know you won't believe me but he is pretty normal, just rich. We just hung out, talking about the card game and I played Pocket Monsters with Mokie." He shrugged like it was nothing new to go over to your rivals house and play at buddy buddy relationships. "I had a great time, he is really a nice guy, I think it is just that he feels he must close himself off to guard his feelings. I guess that is money for you." He got his fries and started to eat them slowly, just thinking to himself, daydreaming of that afternoon. The sunlight had illuminated Seto's perfect face, taking away the cold hard angles and replacing it with the most fragile, timid features.
"Joey... I asked you to come to dinner with me for a reason," Mai paused, looking at her friend. "I know we have always just counted on each other but I have decided we really need to stop playing these games with each other." Jou looked at her confused. She was the only girl he understood and even despite the breakup, they were always open with each other. "You need to find a new love. Some one who will sweep you off your feet and let you be the puppy, spoiled and loved beyond belief. You are always so loving and caring, you put up fronts of being a tough guy but you listen to soft rock and cry to 'My Immortal'." Joey just blinked and winced, he sounded so weak when she put it that way. He was sensitive yes, but never some weakling. "Jou... you need a man in your life. I know you aren't straight and that is okay, that is one reason I thought I loved you back then. I was looking for something safe and when it dissolved into this friendship... I was comforted in knowing I had a friend that liked me for me," she took his hand as she spoke. He felt his eyes well up but the amber eyes didn't shed one betraying tear.
"Mai... I am not gay I don't think. I just haven't found no one to love. You were the only cool girl I knew and now you are more like a sister to me. I just dunno... a man? I have never once thought about playing for the other team, what if everyone knows? They would mock me and hate me. I can't just come out and tell everyone, 'Hey guys, I wanna fuck Seto Kaiba!' .... Oh god.... why did I think of his name when that popped out," he sucked hard at the shake as he pondered it all, had he just admitted to Mai his deep crush on Seto? He shuddered to think what if she was completely right about him being a fag. His old gang would mug some one if they were just rumoured to be swishy. But the more he thought of Seto in the sunlight, the more his heart ached to see him again. He put his hand into his pocket and found the folded scrap of paper. He took it out as Mai just watched him and looked at it. " 'Home: 534-2341 Cell: 634-7425 Office: 423-0125 call me anytime, we need to talk more. Seto' Shit... Mai... think I actually may love him? I don't want to look like I am just after his money. Damn him for looking like he does... damn him for talking to me and for teasing me."
Mai started to laugh, her thoughts were completely comfirmed. "Welcome to your first love, it's a bitch and will not get any better. First of all you need to remember who you are dealing with, Seto 'Fuck You' Kaiba. You say he seems shy and you just coming right out and telling him that you want his body isn't going to fly. What I would do is this, call him up; he gave you the numbers for a reason so figure out what he wants. Let it grow into friendship, do things together and learn more about the real him. Eventually it will become clear if he wants you as a friend, love, or what not. Just listen to your heart and mind. Never focus on his money, try to steer clear of his wealth and he will see you are for real. But..." She paused and looked at Jou, she could tell his feelings for Kaiba were real and the next part was going to hurt to even think about. "But remember this also... Seto Kaiba is a rich and powerful man, he maybe just using you for his own amusement. It does happen, and it happens to the sweetest people. I don't want you to get hurt but that is part of love." She watched as Jou's head sunk, he tried to stifle the onslaught of tears by drowning it with the thickness of the shake. "Please don't be upset, I didn't mean for it to sound so harsh. I was hoping it was with some one a little more obtainable but he isn't impossible. I will help you win him over."
"Mai... why are you doing this for me? I mean... really... you are normally cold if you aren't center stage in some one's life. Did you find some guy to replace me?" He looked at her, finally having composed himself once again. She shook her head and smiled a little. She laughed softly as she leaned her head back. "What is so funny Valentine?"
"There is no man in my life but I have fallen in love. She made me realize we were using each other as an excuse for the way we really are. Isis is such a beautiful woman inside and out. She is kind and perfect, the female version of you. She told me that it was clear I was just confused about my sexuality and so were you. Do you think I am crazy for loving her? Fuck what do I care... she loves me right now and that is what I need," Mai sighed, closing her eyes. She had really changed from the conceited bitch to a easy going girl. Jou hugged her and smiled as he reasured her that she should follow her heart. They finished their food and conversation before she drove him back home. "Puppy... take it easy okay? Just think about everything we talked about, follow your heart and he may love you. You deserve the best in your life and he could give it to you. Goodnight." They went their seperate ways and he walked into the house, loud snoring signalling his father was drunk asleep in the living room. Jou covered up his father with a sheet and went to his own room. He walked to the bed and sat down, flicking on an old Snoopy lamp that he had since he was little. He took out the phone numbers again and smiled.
"I can't believe it... I just can't believe Mai is a lesbian and I am gay... that is so ironic. At least now I know I wasn't dreaming of after school. Hnnn.... Seto.... don't worry, I will call you... even if it is so you mock me. I just have to talk to you again, see those stern eyes... damn it... you can play games with my mind and heart and I wouldn't ever care..." he looked at the photos that he had collected but none of them shown the real person, the teenager that laughed and fiddled with his fingers when talking. Jou turned out the lamp, lights from the streets illuminating the haunting eyes of the only man in his dreams. Slowly his eyes drifted shut and warmth of the summer sun seemed to wash over his exhausted body. Meanwhile across town, Seto watched the credits of a movie with a sleeping Mokuba in his arms. He looked down at his brother and smiled. The pup left his work hat and the precious little boy had worn it since then. His arm was asleep from laying on it so he decided he would just crash on the couch with Mokie. The greasy smell of the hat contrasted with a warm, earthy scent that wasn't familiar. Seto sniffed at the hat again and saw a blade of grass imbedded in the adjustment holes. He smiled, the scent was of Joey, a warm scent that was like grass, sweat, and soap mixed with pizza. He laughed and watched as another movie came on. He would have reached for the remote to change the channel but he couldn't reach it without waking his brother so he drifted into sleep, wondering if Joey would actually call.