Disclaimer: I don't own the show. If I did, there'd be a considerably larger amount of scenes with Jounouchi, Jounouchi's past, Kaiba, Mokuba, their fluffy sibling love, Puppyshipping hints, some more Puppyshipping hints, etc.

Warning: This being the final chapter (!), a lot of bedroom scenes, angsting and always doubting Kaiba, so-cute-you-want-to-have-him-all-for-yourself Jounouchi, ever loyal Mokuba, cursings, touching, angst, fluff, some indecisive behaviour, OOC-tendencies, lamest author ever, too long chapter, yada yada.

Note: Well, I have worked like a slave with this chapter, wanting it to come out as close to perfection as it could. I have worked with it a lot, changing stuff and all. And now I'm quite satisfied. It's not perfect, I know. But remember, you are all free to complain. And I promise, Kaiba will not participate in the childish game called "Truth or Dare" in this chapter. Sheesh, people, what do you take me for? Even I know he'd never do that (and let's face it, my characterisation can quite frankly suck).

Also, sorry for the update that took twice as long. I just had to take care of things in my life. Plus I felt too down to write. Anyways, this is the final chapter of Unheard Love. Oh my god, it's actually saddening for me... I'll miss this story to pieces. Anyhow, it's long. Just warning you all. Then again, I always write long. You should have known better :P

Recap from previous chapter (since I took such a damn long time to update, you all have most likely forgotten): Mokuba had a date, Jou was brought to the Kaiba mansion to help out. He ended up staying the night (in his own room), then he thought he heard ghosts, ran like the man he is to Seto, stayed there, kissed him, got ignored and later they fell asleep. Your memories refreshed now? Good! Start reading now, dammit! Heh :P

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Unheard Love
Chapter 20

by Growing Pain

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Lazily he opened his eyes, slowly regaining his focus and awareness. Light shone into the room from the great windows, even if it was early in the morning. Summer always made itself noticed. And in this room he was not alone.

A familiar body close to his own alerted him of Jounouchi's presence. But not in front of him, as they had fallen asleep, as far as his memory went. No, he seemed to have turned away during the night's sleep. Their positions had now been switched, proven by the chest going up and down against his unprotected back. The blond man's arm was resting loosely around his waist, much similar to how he had held the other. The shared sheet had went down from covering their naked upper bodies, shielding their legs only. At least, so it was for him.

His eyes, no longer bloodshot like they had been a few hours prior, tiredly fell to stare at his digital clock beside his bed. 05.23. So he had woken just about the same time as always? Good.

Their legs were entangled, or rather, his own legs were perfectly fine, keeping to himself and his side. Jounouchi's on the other hand did obviously not know how to keep a distance, having found a perfect way to encircle his legs. He could not see how this all played out, not bothering to cast it a glance. Instead he was more focused on the blond man as a whole at the moment.

Not about to do the same mistake as he had done in the couch yesterday, he was damn well sure he was going to find out if Jounouchi was awake or not. There were to be no repeated mistakes of that humiliating experience.

Not that he was planning to re-enact what he had done at that time. He simply didn't like having the other wide awake when he thought he was not. It left him unnerved. And he wasn't too fond of surprises either.

A frown forced itself onto his face, just in case the blond was awake. Like he'd ever show he actually appreciated this scenario on some level. Hmpf. As if. Jounouchi could daydream all he wanted about that. Though it did feel rather…secure, in lack of a better term, to wake up like this. A body close, an arm around, ensuring him he was not forgotten…

Dammit, he was simply growing even more pathetic than he already was. He would forever mourn the day he lost his dignity.

His body easily turned around, pushing away the legs around his own in the process, freeing himself. The arm was still kept however, for reasons he didn't deem healthy to think about.

What met his eyes was something so natural it was mesmerising. There before him was Jounouchi, apparently sleeping, if counting the slight dried drool on the corner of his mouth. The CEO smirked, wishing he actually had the lack of a heart to take a picture of him in this vulnerable position.

Sadly, that wasn't the case. Thus, he could not mock him for it eternally. Pity…

Blond hair was tousled and yellow grains had been created in the corner of his eyes. Which instantly reminded him of how he too, almost always, woke up looking rather imperfect. His index finger firmly soothed his lines, removing anything that is not meant to be seen. Just in case Jounouchi would suddenly wake up. He surely didn't want to make the other have a free mocking topic without working for it, now did he?

But, since he was a doubting man by nature, he needed to ensure the unconsciousness of Katsuya on a more determined level. Thus he brought forth his hand, reaching for the imperfect face of the other. Unbeknownst to him, his frown had long ago been wiped away, replaced by suppressed affection hiding in his eyes. For it was always so. No matter how much he tried, true nature would always show when the guard is let down. His mission was to not get too comfortable around Jounouchi. Something he failed miserably in.

How utterly disgracing…

His index finger and thumb carefully placed themselves at the eyelids of Jounouchi's left eye. Carefully he parted them, to see if the other would react or not.

His sight was met with the white of an eyeball, leaving him content. His fingers then withdrew, but lingered at the man opposite of him. Leaving him now in complete control, he relaxed, allowing his mind to wander. Naturally, they ended up at Jounouchi's most recent and idiotic act. And that was to give the brunet a kiss. Even if it was just on the cheek, it did not matter. His feelings betrayed him as always on this matter. He did not even bother thinking otherwise.

Divided as per usual, torn between appreciating it and his mind's anger over being forced into such a sexual situation without him consenting to it. He was never that fond of spontaneous acts. That was something for those who didn't take time to plan and evaluate. In other words, something he should have expected from Jounouchi. Typical.

Then his other side had little to complain about, mostly satisfied with the kiss. For even if he did not know how Jounouchi felt about Mai, it appeared the CEO might even surpass her concerning the comparison of Jounouchi's feelings for them both. And he always liked to win. Even if he didn't want to. But that was another question.

Pale fingers slowly trailed at the border of where the mass of hair started to originate and where the skin was free from it. With blank eyes he stared, transfixed with watching this simplistic process of touching. Or perhaps he was simply unable to tear away from looking at the blond man. Both options sounded too plausible for his own good however.

Light breathing was the only thing he heard, escaping from Jounouchi's throat of course. Brushing away some strands of hair that fell in front of those closed eyes, the CEO contemplated if he could ever have back their dysfunctional friendship, or if Jounouchi would be too stubborn in chasing petty daydreams turning them into fantasies.

If anytime, this was certainly the time of where he should terminate this false comfort called friendship. Otherwise he might be stuck forever. And he frankly doubted his own will at trying to break free. What kind of man would escape heaven because they did not believe in God? And just like he didn't believe in love nor friendship, this seemed all too good to betray.

His hand was growing tired of being brought up, so he let it down beside him instead, letting it rest. Jounouchi's bare arm had slowly drawn back, bringing it close to his body instead. Blue eyes observed calmly. His waist silently cursing the loneliness.

Despite knowing better, he felt he wouldn't mind if this were to happen again. Jounouchi staying over that is. But that was simply his weak side talking. The one that couldn't resist temptation. And he liked to see himself as someone that stood above petty lust.

Then again, this had never been about lust. Not that that useless fact redeemed him or excused him in any way.

His eyes continued this quiet observation of the sleeping fool. He had a sudden urge to kiss the other, just to see how it would feel. The thought was of course not acted out. He was not one to do such a thing. And after having been forced into kisses by Arisu, he certainly did not want to act the same as that delusional creature.

Speaking of which, good thing she keeps quiet. Amazing what a little money can do. Hmpf. What a weakling she is.

The gentle snoring emitting from Katsuya was almost comfortable to be exposed to. A sort of tranquillity was spread inside the room, making him less worried. Maybe that was just because Jounouchi was actually sleeping, but still.

Deciding that staring at Jounouchi did him no good, no matter how great of an activity it may be, he slowly sat up. His face was blank, hiding all the care he sealed inside himself. But he still lingered, sitting at the edge of the bed, feet on the ground. Blue eyes had frozen whilst looking at the clock, its numbers losing meaning to him. The knowledge of it was now erased, leaving his mind as blank as his eyes.

His body slightly shivered, reacting from the loss of warmth the bed had provided him with so generously. But he did not care of his body's demands at the moment.

Turning his head around, because he was so utterly weak, his eyes met with the same sight he had a few seconds earlier. The blond was still on his side, slightly curled up, turned towards him. The view left him mesmerized. As always. Enchanted by the man who refused giving up. For Jounouchi refused giving up on him too, didn't he? Yes, the brunet stated mentally as a small smirk formed, the fool was too clueless to know when to give up.

Many people had wanted the CEO's attention over the years, and many wished to have some sort of relationship with him. To brag about to others, or to be able to expose or use him in some way. Yet Jounouchi wasn't in that category of people. And still he kept by the CEO's side, even if there was nothing the brunet really offered him. Except his company every once in a while. But that seemed enough for Katsuya as far as the brunet could see… But…that couldn't be true, to be satisfied with so little. Was there something vital he was missing? All people are selfish, no doubt. There is always a selfish reason for everything. The only reason he spent time with Jounouchi was because it stilled his undeniable yearning for him. So what was Katsuya's reason?

He knew he could trust him, if there was anyone beside his brother that he wanted to entrust something. But he didn't. Trusting meant exposing oneself. You're making a victim out of yourself if you trust. Seto Kaiba did not want to be a victim. So he refused to trust. But he knew Jounouchi was still trustworthy. And, strangely enough, that actually meant something…

Fully aware of how pathetic he was right now, the CEO scolded himself in his mind for being so. For imagining that it actually mattered whether or not the blond man would stay loyal or not. It shouldn't concern him.

But it did. So his previously held debate against himself vanished, leaving his mind at peace. For he loved, and could currently not do anything about it. Despite how against himself that thought went, for he always believed he could change whatever he wanted, he knew that with him not pushing Jounouchi away it was most unlikely to kill these emotions. And once he took a liking to something, he rarely let go.

Ha. Would this mean he'd force Jounouchi to spend the rest of his life with him? How annoying. Surely Jounouchi complained a lot now. Imagine the increase of all complaints when at an old age. Then there would be weak hips, legs, arms, and just about every body part to whine about.

It was a masochistic future he wished for. Pitiful.

His eyes stared at a lock of hair that had fallen in front of Jounouchi's closed eyes. He almost acted purely on feeling as he gently brushed it away from the blond man's face with his index finger. His skin faintly met with the other, and he was caught again, in a trap he always tricked himself into.

Seeing no harm in it, the backside of his fingers softly caressed the side of Jounouchi's face that was exposed to him. His cheek was invitingly warm. Slightly rough due to not having shaved yet, but it still felt oddly good against his fingers.

Was Jounouchi staying with him for similar reasons that he himself had? The thought was not unlikely, not after last night.

His hand froze in its tracks at the thought. How could the blond have been so stupid as to do something so bold and not thought it through first? For he was positive Jounouchi must've spent little time thinking on the consequences when doing such a act. Did he not realize who he was dealing with? That he was a CEO, and very famous for that matter. It did not help that the press would never stray from his, their, side if they ever found out. No, Jounouchi probably didn't think it through. That in itself was insulting.

Jounouchi, he decided before withdrawing his hand, was too foolishly naïve for his own good when concerning life.

XxxX

Exiting the bathroom, wearing his underwear and a towel for he had showered, he walked directly to his closet, about to take out his school uniform. His figure straight, and his moves filled with poise, he aimed for perfection even when there was no one to behold it. Never let your guard down. A phrase he taught himself early in his life. Something he doesn't always succeed in doing however. It took energy to be flawless constantly. But Jounouchi could wake up any minute, and he'd rather not look degrading. Besides, this had been grown into being his natural walk by the years. He did not complain.

Feeling he needed to work, he took the clothing items and carried them over to the bed. The grey pants were put on first before he bent down to pick up his briefcase, which contained the electronic he was looking for.

Forgetting all about time and space, he focused solely on his task at hand. There was a business proposal for him read, concerning another chain dealing with games. He was not interested, but wondered if there was a way to use them for his benefit anyway. Therefore, he read the mail. It was not a contract, for those were only created after a negotiation in which both parts had previously agreed to go through with the idea. What he read now was merely an advanced sketch, one could say.

So far, he did not like it. Blue eyes remained sceptical.

Movements was heard from behind, and he understood that Jounouchi must be awake by now. Not fully knowing why, he turned his head, glancing back at the man that had brought himself up to a sitting position, currently rubbing his eyes. His chest was left to be revealed to the world, showing off its clear musculature. Blank eyes rested on the entire form however. Not only that body part.

When Katsuya had stopped rubbing eyes, thus opening them, they instantly widened, shocked to see the CEO staring at him. Neither male uttered words, an uncomfortable scenario for both of them. The morning after a rejected kiss. What was the way things were going to be now? Brown eyes started to nervously wander to other things and the brunet mentally snorted. Was he embarrassed for the kiss? Most likely, yes.

Well, who could blame him?

Though he was still a bit agitated by the fact that it had occurred, it was not a resentment he planned on holding onto. Jounouchi lacked the brains in doing anything properly anyhow.

His cold eyes kept staring, not showing any emotion. As far as the blond knew, he could be thinking of murdering the man. If his stare had started to form into a glare, Katsuya wouldn't know. Brown eyes successfully avoided the blue ones, drawing the sheet closer to his lonesome body.

He was in control, Kaiba reckoned. He was the one to decide the outcome of this situation. The brunet smirked mentally at this. A poor substitute for the act pulled upon him last night. But he had the power now. His reaction set the course of their future. Would he shun Jounouchi, or simply pass it away?

The answer had already been imprinted in his mind before the question had been dared to be asked.

His lips formed into a smirk of the more friendly kind, looking amusedly at the man. This simple gesture proved nothing had changed, for he still acted the same as ever. And for some reason, Jounouchi instantly picked up on his taunting gaze and faced him, glaring.

"Do you have a problem?" Kaiba mocked without resentment, simply doing it for entertainment purposes.

"Hmpf. Jerk!" Katsuya muttered out as he folded his arms.

"I'll take that as a 'yes' then." The CEO stated nonchalantly as he gracefully turned back to his laptop, continuing his reading. The blond man did not abandon the conversation however, not seeing eye to eye with the result the brunet had come up with.

"Nu-uh! No way, you asshole. Why would I have problems?" He defied, still glaring. It didn't contain any real anger though. Chances were he was simply slightly annoyed with him. But the question he asked made him snort, and he turned around with a knowing expression, eyeing the other man as if wondering if he had been joking or serious. After the kiss, there was plenty to have problems over. Brown eyes slightly widened at the reaction of the CEO, but turned into a glare almost instantly.

"Oh, shut up…" He muttered with folded arms. Kaiba smirked and continued with his own business on his electronic.

"You can't shut up if you're not talking." He corrected with his back facing the other.

"Well, you're doing it now anyway, aren't you?" Katsuya asked dryly.

"True, but that's not my point. I wasn't talking when you told me not to, which -"

"Well, guess what moneybags? Your looks can say stuff too." Katsuya interrupted. Seto merely sighed.

"Moron." Kaiba settled with calling him, not even bothering to continue this poor excuse of a conversation. Jounouchi didn't either, which he only found to be positive.

Movements were detected in the bed, and the CEO instantly realized that Jounouchi was causing it. But he didn't turn around, already knowing he was the aim for the other. Carefully Jounouchi moved, yet before he knew it hot breath teased his neck and cheek.

"What're you reading?" Katsuya asked as he peeked at the screen from behind the CEO, leaning his face closer to the screen, ending up beside the CEO's. Yet no body part was touching. Kaiba suspected this was intentional. With hard eyes he briefly glanced to his left since it was where Jounouchi's head was. He was only greeted with a grin. Seto made a small bothered sigh after he decided to communicate back.

"A proposal." He answered in a bored voice. Katsuya grinned.

"So you're getting married, eh?" He asked teasingly. It only caused him to knit his brow.

"Not a marriage proposal, idiot."

"I know that! Geez, just making a joke."

"It was a bad one. I suggest you refrain from continuing." Seto suggested, which only caused him to be the victim of a death glare. Sadly, it had no effect on him. He was immune.

"Hey, try being a perfect comedian in the morning! I haven't even eaten breakfast yet! So I haven't really woken up." He explained with a hint of anger in his tone. One that was completely discarded by Seto. He only snorted, willing to end yet another conversation. He was losing focus. Seeing how the blond got no response, he made a faint sigh, muttering 'jerk' for being ignored so easily.

The warmth from behind him drew closer, a familiar chest pressed against his naked back. Two arms took the opportunity to wrap themselves around him, and Jounouchi let his face rest in the crook of the brunet's neck. Kaiba shot his head up, having not thought Jounouchi would be this intimate so soon. He forced himself to appear relaxed however, not wanting to look stupid. But his muscles were still tense, something he was almost positive Jounouchi could feel. The body behind his made a few adjustments concerning his sitting position, but the chest remained glued to him, and the arms still rested around his shoulders. Two lips almost dared to brush against his skin as they spoke.

"Good morning by the way." Jounouchi murmured before closing his eyes, deciding to rest some more, though still awake. A satisfied smirk grew on Kaiba's lips as he relaxed once more seeing how Katsuya would do no further advances. A hand of his was unconsciously brought up to hold one of Jounouchi's encircled arms in a light grip, his thumb making slow caresses. Them being together like this felt unnervingly natural.

"Hn." Was his offer at greeting him back. Blue eyes paid no focus to the mass of blond hair beside him, but continued to read. Soothingly he continued to touch, simply because he felt like it. It was fascinating how quickly the mood of their situation could change, going from bickering to this in a matter of seconds. But since he remembered the events of last night, and Jounouchi's memorable outburst about ghosts, he decided to figure out if there were any after effects.

"Did you sleep well?" He asked with a dull voice, completely void of emotion. He was skilled like that. Katsuya still raised his head up, staring dumbfound at the other man.

"…What?"

"Last night you had problems with ghosts." Kaiba reminded the blond, semi-agitated by Jounouchi.

"Oh yeah." The blond man said, having an almost thoughtful look on his face. Kaiba merely frowned.

"So?"

"Well, I didn't have any nightmares." Katsuya informed, a growing smirk clear on his lips. "In fact, I had a pretty nice dream. So I guess you could say I slept well." He informed, grinning now. Once again, his head rested at the crook of Seto's neck. This time however, he was still intending to talk.

"Want to know what it was about?" Katsuya asked, a mischievous hint in his voice. Kaiba's frown deepened. Something told him he had been in that dream, and he really didn't want to know what Jounouchi's mind could muster up.

"No." The brunet dismissed easily.

"Well, I'll tell you anyway." The blond shrugged off happily, his face parting from Seto's skin, looking excited. As if his dream was a great story to tell. Blue eyes narrowed as they kept a hard gaze at the computer screen.

"Joy."

"So, anyway-" He started, fully ignoring Kaiba's sarcasm. "I was living in a kingdom of candy and food-"

"This is stupid…" The CEO muttered. "Have you no other interest? It's pitiful."

"Shut up, you jerk!" Jounouchi demanded, hitting his victim. Not too painfully though, and Kaiba merely pretended he didn't feel a thing. "So, before I was so rudely interrupted, I was saying-" The blond continued, eyeing the taller teenager angrily. Daring him to make any sort of input to disturb him. Kaiba didn't, so he continued. "I was living in this awesome kingdom of candy and food. And everything was edible! Even the chairs! Damn…those were good…" He reminiscenced, sighing blissfully. Kaiba sighed heavily, deeply bothered. But the quickest way to make Jounouchi shut up was to let him rant in peace.

"And guess what? I was the king of this kick ass country!"

"Fascinating…" Seto mumbled, his eyes paying attention to his laptop only.

"I had myself a queen too." Jounouchi bragged, his grin shining. The CEO didn't like this mentioning. He had a bad feeling about this.

"Hn."

"Guess who it was." Katsuya urged, enthusiastic like a child almost.

"No." Kaiba defied as he drawled on the word.

"Aw, come on! Just one guess. Just say a name. It's more fun that way."

"For you maybe." He muttered.

"See! You wasted a whole sentence there. Just say a name and get the damn thing over with."

"Anzu." Seto said with an absentminded voice. His initial thought was of course Mai, but he didn't want to suggest her in that to the other. So he took the first female he could think of other than her.

"Nope! It was you!" Katsuya exclaimed as he chuckled. The CEO froze. First, the moron kisses him. Then he tells him he dreamed of him. As his queen.

This was disturbing.

And why the hell was he the girl!

"What! Your mind is clearly insane for turning me into a female."

"Don't be too hard on yourself. It's a given that you're girly. Come on, you're always bitching about stuff like they are. And that dress didn't look all too bad on you. Though you didn't really have the body for it." Jounouchi said as he stroke his chin thoughtfully. Kaiba turned his head. Just what kind of moronic dreams did he have? Him, the CEO, in a dress!

Katsuya noticed this reaction of course, smirking proudly to himself.

"Let's not forget the make-up." He added teasingly. Blue eyes hardened.

"And the high heels." Katsuya added enthusiastically.

"And your wig. Nothing beats the wig. You looked like a transvestite!" 'Isn't that what men in female clothing is called, idiot?' Kaiba wanted to say, but got no input to the conversation as the blond man's list grew longer. Katsuya rambled on, now on his back, laughing hard at the mental image his sick mind produced. Blue eyes glared coldly down at the other. And he continued to stare as the blond man practically died with laughter, twisting and turning on his back as he tried to explain just how stupid he had looked in that dream. Though, after Jounouchi had mentioned the various warts he had had, he grew suspicious of the authenticity of this so called dream. It was simply too over the top to be a dream. Even dreams had limits.

"You're making all this up, aren't you?" He asked with sharp eyes.

"Ah man! You're ruining all the fun!" Katsuya said with a disappointed face, regaining himself from his laughter and sitting up. This time around, he was not pressed against the CEO. Now he was diagonally behind him. The CEO appreciated this.

"Hmpf. Good to know there's still some sanity left in that leftover of a brain you have." He insulted coldly and got back to ignoring the other once more. He should have known Jounouchi was merely playing around. As if anyone could have such a stupid dream to begin with.

"Yeah. Besides, I don't really want to dream about your hideous warts and random burping sessions anyway." The blond said with a lopsided smile as he stared at the CEO in question. Kaiba remained quiet, having left his contract proposal and now typing an e-mail to an employee concerning the economical growth of his company. Silence filled the air, and he felt the brown eyes watching his movements. Though he pretended to not care. Suddenly Jounouchi took a small intake of air, scratching the back of his head. Kaiba dreaded this already.

"But…I didn't lie when I said you were my queen." Katsuya nearly mumbled out.

And once again, the blond man had managed to steal away the comfortable and peaceful atmosphere, forcing him into uncomfortable situations. His mind momentarily froze, not knowing how to react. How was he even supposed to react to this! Why couldn't Jounouchi see his reluctance? Granted, he was stupid. But had he given his brain more credit than it deserved? …It seemed likely at the moment.

Eventually he forced himself to stare with indifference at the other, who avoided eye-contact and scratched the back of his head, covering up his confusion. Why do Jounouchi persist in dropping these obvious hints! The brunet was not stupid. If he wanted to, he'd take the bait. He just doesn't want to. It's not safe enough…

"Crazy dream, huh?" Katsuya asked, to rid of the uneasy atmosphere, still wearing a lopsided smile that seemed almost tragic at the moment. Seto snorted and returned his gaze to his laptop.

"That's a given." He easily insulted.

And all was back to normal. And he couldn't help but notice that insignificant part inside of him, feeling disappointed that is was so.

XxxX

This relationship was unhealthy. It did no good but further his liking in Jounouchi, which was already overwhelmingly great. Then why did he keep on going? Why risk exposure of his true feelings when he could be safe?

Kaiba assumed he had simply lost his mind. Because the thought of not being able to be around Katsuya again was far too alarmingly upsetting. Not even a day had he managed without him when he had moved. No, he came back, insisting on following his heart when he knew it led to wrong pathways. This love was truly a sickness, deliberately changing him for a cause unknown. And he hated it.

His ears picked up a sound of the shower stopping its previous continuous flow of water. So Jounouchi was finished then? His eyes quickly glanced at his watch, noting that the blond man had spent nearly twenty minutes in there. Hmpf. Slowpoke. Yet it was with a relieved sigh he turned off his laptop, for he needed to get ready for breakfast and school. It wasn't until now he fully paid attention to the fact that he wasn't wearing a shirt, revealing a bare chest.

It was wonderful to get caught up in work. It made him so efficient. He was at his prime, top focus, when he forgot about the things around him. So the forgetful behaviour was only rewarded with a smirk on his side.

He graciously put his electronic inside his briefcase, for it would come to later use in school as it always did, before taking up his white shirt to put it on, which would soon be followed by his grey uniform jacket. He had already fetched Jounouchi's clothes from his previous room, since the blond had asked so 'kindly' before. In actuality, it was more in form of an argument. Jounouchi had forgotten he hadn't gotten his clothes when he was in the shower, and shouted out this interesting fact to the CEO, who yelled back that the didn't care. Several insults and threats of walking 'butt-naked' down the hall, even if Mokuba were to see, took place. Eventually, Seto let his good-natured side of him take over and just get the damn pants and shirts.

Stupid moron. He ought to drench Jounouchi's school uniform in water, or perhaps something more sticky. Hmm…not a bad idea. But, since Jounouchi would be in the limousine, that was no good action for him to go through. Pity. Besides, he was supposed to the mature one of the two. Naturally he had to refrain from doing such acts.

As he buttoned up his jacket, his head turned to the bathroom door connected with his room, for it was opening. The blond stepped out, grinning as he saw his clothes tossed on the bed. Seto merely snorted at the half-naked man who covered himself with a dark blue towel around his waist.

"Well well, look at that. Mr Ice-cold can actually do another person a favour." Katsuya commented in an amused voice as he eyed the clothes on the bed, still grinning. Blue eyes narrowed as he eyed the other who looked back at the brunet cockily.

"Hmpf. I only did it to spare Mokuba. Though I don't understand why you'd want to walk naked through the hall to get some clothes, I do know logic was never your forte." He responded, a smirk on his lips. Jounouchi rolled his eyes.

"Ha. Ha." Jounouchi said dryly. "Hilarious." He muttered as he removed the towel, leaving him in his underwear only before he tried to put his pants on.

"Indeed." Seto agreed, his eyes staring at the blond man with interest he shouldn't harbour. The action went by unnoticed, as the blond occupied himself with getting one of his legs inside the clothing item, jumping around on the free leg to ease process. It looked quite moronic really, but this was Jounouchi, and those things were normal for him.

And staring at Jounouchi seemed to be normal to the brunet.

How alarming… At least, it would be, if he had been oblivious to his interest in the other man, still in underwear by the way, jumping on one leg while trying to get his other inside the blue pants. He thought of himself as nice for not insulting him in this scenario. Honestly, witty insults were practically thrown onto him. But there was no sport in that, so he refrained from being considered 'mean' at the time being.

His dislike for Jounouchi's kiss reappeared inside of him suddenly, being mentally reminded of the kiss for a reason or another. That was not how he wanted things to go. It was not what he had in mind nor planned. Stupid, idiotic, selfish, always-eating Jounouchi. How could he kiss him so easily!

He hated it. Hated the kiss, because he had liked the thought of it far too much. It was only a cheap compensation that he got angry because of it, trying to convert him into disliking the blond and his lips.

He didn't want things to change between them. He still wanted to be close while it didn't mean a thing. He still wanted run his fingers through Jounouchi's soft hair without being worried how the blond might perceive it. Everything was so easier before. Now he didn't know what to do or how to act. He had to admit, a key factor as to how he hadn't gone insane with longing for the blond was the simple fact that he was allowed to be close to him. Would he have to give it up now, so Jounouchi wouldn't get any ideas of a romantic relationship in his mind?

Why? Why should he? He didn't want it to stop. And dammit, why did he have to adjust to a mistake on Jounouchi's behalf anyway?

His eyes narrowed, turning slightly cold, as he still viewed the man. Then he decided, that if he didn't want things to change, they wouldn't. He controlled the situation now, and he chose that everything would be like before. Nice and simple.

A small smirk graced his lips, allowing his eyes to grow less cold. His feet started to move, guiding him over to the male who had his back turned towards him. The pants were finally on him he noticed.

He must've moved without a sound, for the blond didn't seem to notice a thing until he finally placed his body behind Jounouchi's, his front against Katsuya's back. With slight worry he tested the situation, checking to see if anything had changed. His hands slowly placed themselves on Jounouchi's waist, staying there as he pushed their bodies together. More than that however he didn't do. For he waited on a reaction from the other man. He had to see where they stood now. Was Jounouchi also willing to act like nothing had happened?

Naturally, his cold hands resting on Jounouchi's warm skin, even if it was a bit moist, caused the blond to gasp. Though he was sure he gasped due to surprise as well. Unlike he himself, Katsuya had not had time to put on a shirt, seeing how Kaiba had interrupted that action. He smirked mentally at that, lowering his head a bit down to the mop of hair.

"Fucking bastard! You're always creeping up behind me!" Jounouchi complained, turning his head to glare. Seto merely smirked.

"I've only done that one time prior this. Though if you keep complaining, I'll make a habit out of it." He explained with an amused expression.

"Lucky me." Katsuya muttered, rolling his eyes. But he appeared amused as well. Which could only lead to one conclusion; all was good. "Now get your freaking hands off of me. I need to put my shirt on, it's fucking cold in here." The blond complained, one of his hands pushing away Seto's from his body. Though they still stood close to each other, Kaiba observed with a smirk.

"Only because you just stepped out of the shower." The CEO explained with a bored expression at the man now facing him. Not that he saw his face anyway, since the shirt was currently covering it. At least his stomach was showed, its muscles clear. Though he wasn't transfixed with the display. He was too amused with staring at Katsuya having trouble with yet another piece of clothing item to take notice.

"I know that!" Jounouchi said in a slightly muffled voice due to the fabric covering his face. Soon his head revealed itself however, his t-shirt now successfully on. The brunet mused over the choice of shirt Katsuya had chosen. Usually he wore regular white, long-sleeved shirts under his school jacket. Perhaps the warmth of summer was affecting him. "Jerk…" Jounouchi muttered, staring into blue eyes, glaring. But brown eyes could not keep up the hate, and they simply looked up at him almost fondly in the end. As if the sentimental idiot could ever dislike him for long anyway.

With a sigh Katsuya stepped closer, their chests brushing. The brunet did not object, looking smug. Brown eyes glared for a second due to this.

"Bastard. You made me cold." The blond muttered, one of his hands sneaking up over the CEO's chest, only to finally stop at his neck, resting there as if it had every right in the world to be there. They both stayed silent, staring into each other's eyes. He felt fingers playing with his hair in slow movements, sending chills down his spine. The CEO couldn't help but smirk.

"So your idea of getting warm is to be close to the source of cold?" He taunted, his arms finding their way around the man before him. Though he made sure this time not to trail over to Katsuya's skin. At least not for a while anyhow.

"Well, it's only your hands that are cold anyway. The rest of you is pretty normal." Katsuya mused with a smirk, one that Seto returned.

All seemed to be normal once again. It was just the two of them, not voicing out their thoughts or feelings. Minimal restrictions, and no attachments. Just the way he liked it.

Then again, if Jounouchi did this with other people, that opinion would immediately change. After all, he didn't share.

Yet…what if Jounouchi was close with Mai too? Or wanted to be? No matter how hard he could try, he had no control over Jounouchi's emotions, and he never would. There was no use in trying to control him in that way. So what the hell was there left to do?

…Nothing. At least, there was nothing he was willing to do.

Hmpf. Why should he care? He knew they shouldn't be together. That Jounouchi one day would actually have moved on with his life and found himself someone else.

But worry seemed glued to his mind whenever it appeared. Perhaps he was simply too obsessive. Perhaps he liked the other too much. Or, perhaps, he was self-destructive. Whatever it was, he tried to not care at the moment, concentrating on brown eyes staring into his own.

Thinking back on the conversation they had, an idea suddenly sprung in his mind. A satisfied smirked played on his lips, alerting the blond who merely tilted his head in interest. The brunet decided to follow instincts and took a firm hold around Jounouchi's waist before he slowly started walking, forcing the blond to do the same unless he wanted to be dragged across the floor. Slowly he led the blond, who walked backwards, towards his aim. The bed. For it was a convenient place to be. Jounouchi, who glanced behind him, noticed of course, grinning widely, to Seto's mental benefit.

With a determined push Jounouchi ended up lying on his back on the bed they were now at, the CEO smirking down as he stood at the edge, watching the man quietly. The blond half sat up, supported by his elbows. Brown eyes stared back, a lopsided smile on his lips. They parted to speak, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"You look stupid just standing there." Jounouchi stated easily, as if to taunt. The CEO knew the real meaning however. An unofficial way of demanding his presence on top of the other. Surely, he could save them both time in that department and just do what they both wished him to do and join the blond in the damned bed. But that'd just be too easy, wouldn't it?

"Is that so?" He asked while smirking as he straightened his posture. "And what do you propose I do about it?"

"Not stand." The blond said in a voice that had a bit of an edge. A slightly angered edge. Meaning Jounouchi was losing patience. Also meaning this could turn out to be interesting.

For there was never a dull moment when he managed to get the other man upset.

Then again, he was just wasting time. They would have to leave shortly. Therefore he slowly, and perhaps with a bit of intimidating nature, placed his taller body on the bed. His eyes never straying from the pair underneath his. His closeness forced the blond to lay on his back, a task Jounouchi didn't seem to mind that much.

How shocking…

"Better?" Kaiba asked, looking satisfied with himself. The blond appeared to ponder for a second or two before smiling.

"Well, I can live with it." He said with a careless ease. Blue eyes narrowed.

"Whiny idiot." He muttered, referring to the fact that Jounouchi had not been pleased with him standing. Then again, maybe whiny wasn't the proper term for it.

"Stuck-up ass." Katsuya replied, though there was little hint of an aggressive tone. It was more positive than negative in the CEO's mind. The brunet settled with simply staring down at Katsuya, his mind starting to wander. Once again, it told him that he shouldn't behave like this with him. How he shouldn't encourage this sort of behaviour from the other. And he started to think why he never listened to himself whenever it concerned Jounouchi, when he otherwise always did. Having him as an exception didn't make him feel comfortable. Why couldn't he find a reason as to why he seemed to care for the blond so much? Where was the logic?

His body straddled Jounouchi's without meeting any sort of resistance. As if he ever did. A peaceful agreement of a temporary closeness. That was all it should be. For both of them. But apparently neither of them could be fooled by lies.

He had spaced out, he noticed. Awakened when rough fingers trailed on his cheek into his hair slowly. Gently. Repeatedly. And he didn't mind, for he rarely did. The caress went by without any objections, and he returned them. As he always did. This cycle of closeness was damaging his sense of knowing what's right and what's not. His defences had crumbled into puny pieces, leaving him unprotected. And as his fingers ran through the blond hair he had grown all too addicted to, he hesitated. His hand stopped in its movement, a debate taking place inside of him. Doing this was not wise. For crying out loud, he had practically invited the kiss all along! What with the way he acted, he was surprised Jounouchi hadn't done anything earlier! It was all his own fault…

"You're a statue now, or what?" Katsuya teased, a lopsided smile still on his face. Kaiba smirked down, his face drawing closer as if to intimidate. His hands were now beside the blond man's head, not touching.

"What? I need to move all the time?" He asked with a snort.

He could smell the scent Jounouchi now emitted. But something with it was wrong. So very wrong. He noticed immediately. Instead if its usual faint scent of apples, it now smelled like his very own shampoo. And he did not like it one bit. It wasn't the same. Changes were never good, now were they? And something about Jounouchi using the same shampoo as he upset him in some way. Lining it up with a relationship, would this be how a romantic one would be lived? Eternal sharing? Always being there? Would Jounouchi stop being Jounouchi and turn into something else? Adopting other qualities, picking them up from the brunet?

Not feeling 'in the mood' anymore, he brought himself up to a sitting position, an emotionless face with the exception of doubting blue eyes staring down at the blond. Katsuya brought up his upper body, supporting his weight on his elbows and stared back, first confused. But it only lasted a few seconds before he turned his head and stared out into space. A small, nearly sorrowful smile on his lips before he started to speak in a serious voice. Neither of those attributes fitted him, the brunet decided.

"Kaiba…" He started, his face turning. Brown meeting blue. "do you really think that this is normal…for friends to do?" He asked carefully, yet his gaze never faltered from his eyes. Referring to all their touches and closeness, of course. What else would there be to question?

"Hmpf. Why are you asking me? It's you who have friends. And do I need to remind you that I don't care if I do according to standards or not. I do whatever I want." Kaiba immediately dismissed, feeling defensive. Jounouchi was questioning their relationship. And he did not want to talk about it, or his feelings, or Jounouchi's feelings. Trivialities. That's all it was. And those didn't need to be discussed. His body removed itself from the bed to be on the floor again. Katsuya's body fully lifted as he did so, sitting up. Brown eyes lingered on his body as he straightened his uniform jacket with a frown. Trying to perfect his appearance just to have something other to do rather than concentrate on Jounouchi.

"I know. And you should act like you want and all. But all I'm saying is…would you…you know…do this with another friend?" The blond asked hesitantly. The CEO looked at the sitting man on the bed for a few seconds, shooting him a small glare, before walking over to his mirror, back turned against Katsuya, as he perfected his hair instead. Jounouchi's touches had messed it up.

"I don't have friends." He coldly declared, purposely ignoring their relationship. The blond didn't seem all too insulted by it, surprisingly. Perhaps he didn't catch on, or perhaps he wanted an answer more than arguing. The CEO didn't know, and quite frankly, could care less at the given time.

"But, if you did. Would you act like this then?" Jounouchi asked, persisting on having the topic alive. The CEO wanted nothing more than to walk out of the room and slam the door. Couldn't Jounouchi take a hint!

"I do whatever it is that I want to do." He nearly snapped, narrowing his eyes bitterly because of the man that persisted in talking about emotions. His answer was vague, and did obviously not please the other man who frowned at his back.

Why was he even asking questions like these?

"You're avoiding the question." Jounouchi accused with glaring eyes. The CEO snorted.

"And you won't shut up." He stated with a cold voice. Brown eyes narrowed, probably angry. Blue ones stared at his own image reflected back at him, perfecting what was already flawless. His hair was fine now, yet the brush continued moving. No one spoke, an uncomfortable silence hitting the conversation. A heavy feeling deep inside him kept him within reality's grasp. Forcing him to worry, wondering why Jounouchi just couldn't let their relationship be. Why he himself couldn't throw him away or merely dismiss him without the sting of guilt. How deep could he fall?

"I don't see why an answer would mean so much to you." The brunet mused coldly. No apparent feeling was visualised on his face as he turned around, giving the blond a glance. It didn't last for long, yet left a haunting effect as he started to move across the floor towards a window. Katsuya observed him, remaining quiet on the bed. Kaiba continued to keep his thoughts inside as he removed the curtains, letting the sun's light fall upon his solitary figure. Warming him when Jounouchi did not.

"Emotions are for the weak." He reminded in a voice that seemed to want to educate the lesser knowing one. Yet the sentence was only said to remind himself of the statement he thought of as a fact. But Jounouchi did not share this opinion, snorting at the stupidity.

"That's a lie." He claimed easily, narrowing his eyes at the brunet who's blue eyes fixated on the outside world. Watching his territory, all that he had gained from not being weak. "They make you stronger." Katsuya said, determined in his cause. "What's weak is to ignore your emotions." Katsuya said in a tone with slight mockery. Or perhaps it was scolding. The CEO couldn't tell the difference, and he didn't much care. Brilliant green grass with a healthy glow was what he paid attention to mostly, watching how the wind moved them, even if it was hard to tell, being two floors up. He was detaching himself from the scene, bidding himself to stop caring. A part of him knew he couldn't however. Not with Jounouchi, and not with Mokuba. Weaknesses. But Mokuba was not like that. He was the only reason the brunet was still breathing, willing to live. Life without Mokuba would not even be worthy of the title 'life'.

But Jounouchi. What did he provide? Nothing. He just made him even weaker, wanting someone more. An additional piece in his life. Yet he would still not take departure from the other well. Somehow he had, pathetically enough, grown too attached for comfort. That always worried him.

"It shouldn't matter what my answer is. All relationships are only temporary anyway." Seto said, sharing his philosophy. Alerting the ignorant of the truth.

"Not with me. You ain't getting rid of me that easily, Kaiba." Jounouchi stated with a faint grin, serious in his statement, but joking it off all the same. Blue eyes turned, connecting with brown ones. Holding the gaze as he contemplated. Jounouchi had told him a few times now that he wouldn't leave nor betray him. Words so powerful flowed out of his mouth so easily. Too easily. It couldn't be true then. Words like that never were. Therefore he didn't believe his lies.

"It's breakfast now. Mokuba's waiting." The CEO spoke in a cold tone, walking out of the room, grabbing his briefcase on the way. Jounouchi made a small nod before following. They didn't talk as they walked downstairs, their footsteps echoing in the lonely space. The tense atmosphere was easily detected. To rid of it Kaiba decided to bring out normality from previous conversations, aiming to aggravate the other.

"Make sure to not eat all the food available. Otherwise I might have to order home more just to feed Mokuba." He taunted, showing off a small smirk, looking down at Jounouchi, waiting to see the reaction. Would his unofficial invite to return to normal be accepted or denied?

"Ha. Ha. Hilarious as always. You know, your 'Jounouchi-is-eating-too-much' comments are so not true!" Accepted. Well, it was expected. It's not as if the blond liked tense atmospheres either.

"They're not?" Seto asked in a dull voice, obviously not believing what was previously said.

"Nope! I can eat like a normal person." Jounouchi proudly informed.

"Right…" He said with no hint of trusting the man of this.

"I just chose not to." Jounouchi added as he smiled. The CEO decided to throw in an insult, which the blond responded to, and by the time they had almost arrived downstairs, both were on peaceful terms with each other. As peaceful as they could get with an angered Jounouchi and an irritated Kaiba that is.

"One more word, and I'll beat you bloody!" The blond growled out, shaking his fist. Seto smirked, amused by the not so serious threat.

"In your dreams." He shrugged off before opening the door to the kitchen, walking inside with the smirk plastered on his face. The immediate change of room caused various of scents to attack his nostrils, one of them being the distinctive smell of coffee. Kaiba instantly made sure to go to the coffeemaker, which Mokuba must've started already, to see if it was ready. His eyes briefly noticed his sibling sitting at the table, and the food it contained.

"Good morning big brother!" Mokuba greeted as the older of the two walked across the floor. Blue eyes looked at his brother, who sat at the table eating, in acknowledgement, speaking out a curt 'Good morning' as well.

"And good morning to you too, Jou." The black-haired boy said to the newly arrived blonde, who couldn't help but shoot glares at the CEO. Kaiba paid this no mind.

"Good morning to you too, kid." The blond said with a small smile as he seated himself across the younger one. His eyes soon fell upon the food spread upon the table however. "And look at all the food! I'm in heaven!" He exclaimed happily, grabbing a few pieces out of everything in a very greedy manner. Seto snorted, an act Katsuya ignored happily at a moment like this.

As Katsuya was shoving down food like there was no tomorrow down his hole, otherwise referred to as mouth, Kaiba calmly poured himself a cup of steaming coffee. An extra large cup, for the idiot had messed up his sleeping rhythm and energy level by disturbing him last night. Moron…

"So Jou-" Mokuba started out, smiling in a manner that hinted of chaos. "did you sleep well last night?" The younger Kaiba asked, but Jounouchi's reply was muffled due to all the food in his mouth, making it sound like a caveman speaking. However, after quickly swallowing it down with some juice, a bright smile flashed across his face as he was ready to answer.

"I guess." Was the lame reply given.

"Hmm…interesting. Because…I didn't find you in your room this morning." He stated with a calculated voice.

"Oh…" Was all that the blond could say, blue eyes glaring a hole into his head. If Mokuba found out anything about the kiss, or that he allowed Jounouchi to sleep in his bed, then the blond would pay! He did not need another rant as to why he should invest in a relationship. And he certainly didn't need Mokuba to know that they shared a bed.

"Are you an early riser then?" Mokuba asked innocently. Jounouchi twisted a bit in his seat, his eyes glancing at the CEO for help, who just glared, denying him the privilege of telling his brother anything.

"Nah, um…I just…slept somewhere else." He explained. Mokuba gave a curt nod, going back to his sandwich. Well…that had gone pretty easy. Too easy. The brunet still doubted, standing next to the coffeemaker, observing the scene in front of him with anxiety inside of him. While sipping his coffee of course.

Jounouchi, noticing the subject seemed to have been dropped, began to enjoy the food. And just as the prey grew comfortable in a fake promise of safety, the hunter decided to strike. A calm face, and interested blue-grey eyes faced the blond man, and all too suddenly words escaped his mouth.

"So you slept with my brother then?" Mokuba asked casually. Words with two meanings. Which Katsuya must've understood, as he started to choke on his food, hitting his chest in an attempt to save himself. Neither of the Kaiba's helped, the elder glaring at the blond for such a stupid reaction. Now Mokuba would surely suspect something! Mokuba however smirked to himself, waiting patiently until the coughing stopped. But before he could make another input, a strained voice interrupted.

"I didn't touch him!" Jounouchi claimed. Seto snorted soundlessly to himself. What a bad liar.

"I didn't say that…" Mokuba stated, his head tilting slightly, his interest growing. Damn it!

"Oh…hehe…My bad." Katsuya excused, scratching the back of his with an embarrassed grin. "So, kid, what are you planning to do today?" He asked suddenly, trying to change the subject. The younger Kaiba wasn't going to subject to that however, keeping to his own path.

"Hanging with you guys at Yuugi's." Mokuba reminded. Seto sighed at Jounouchi's idiotic attempt to change the topic. "So why did you sleep with my brother then? Wasn't your room nice enough?" Yes, Kaiba found out, his brother certainly could play stupid and innocent in a believable way. Unless of course, if they knew him as well as he did. The CEO saw through it quite easily, wondering why Jounouchi did not.

"I-" Jounouchi began, but was interrupted by Kaiba, who tried to stop this madness.

"Mokuba-" Seto began in a calm voice and a cold stare. "it's rude to make guests uncomfortable." What the hell? Where did that come from?

Well…that was a lame and utterly pathetic way to save his face. Mokuba's eyes narrowed. Probably annoyed he disturbed whatever grand plan he had in mind.

"But you always tell me that's a nice pleasure to enjoy." His little brother argued.

"Things change." Seto dismissed, taking in a large gulp of coffee. Hmm…it was starting to empty already. Shame.

"It's good that you know that." Mokuba said, a satisfied smirk on his lips. The answer pleasing him on another level than a petty argument. "Because it can't stay the same forever, now can it?" Kaiba narrowed his eyes, not liking the insinuating nature his brother was having. This needed to stop. It was good though, that Jounouchi was too stupid to understand the hints Mokuba sent to Seto. But the older Kaiba was quite sure his brother wouldn't act like this if his secret could be revealed.

"Be quiet and eat." He ordered, not finding any other thing to retort to. Mokuba smirked proudly, knowing he had struck a nerve in the older one. Jounouchi peeked out from his bangs, his eyes darting back and forth between them, yet pretending he wasn't looking all the same. With a gruff snort the CEO poured himself yet another cup of coffee before joining the two others at the table. Sitting next to his brother of course. Mokuba already had too many ideas as it was.

And all was silent, yet the roles still the same. Mokuba wore a smug smile, Jounouchi avoided eye contact with the small pest, and Kaiba glared coldly at the empty seat in front of him. His brother was out of line. As was Jounouchi. In fact, everyone but him seemed to have lost their mind. First, his brother wants for him to be with the blond. Then, the idiot of a blond kisses him. And disrupts his sleeping pattern. The morning doesn't seem to be going smooth either. Damn it all.

The CEO woke up from his inner cursing by the sound of a chair pushed back. His eyes went to the blond, now standing, who made a lopsided smile at them both.

"Got to go to the bathroom." He excused, practically running out of the room. If it was because he really needed a toilet or because he feared Mokuba, the brunet did not know. Both of the brothers continued on with their breakfast, not really paying each other much mind. But that didn't last for long.

"So, what happened last night?" Mokuba asked before starting to chew a sandwich. Kaiba turned his gaze, looking down at his brother.

"You would already know, wouldn't you?" He told in a indifferent voice. His brother simply smiled.

"So you figured me out, huh?" The raven-haired boy asked, a hint of a smile on his lips. Though it seemed quite solemn. Was he disappointed?

"It wasn't that hard. You're lucky Jounouchi's an idiot and actually thought it was a ghost." Kaiba said with a snort, referring to the incident last night. But whatever it was that his brother had done, it was for him. Because Mokuba would always do whatever he thought necessary to make his brother happy. And a part of him couldn't dislike his younger sibling for that.

"Yeah, I can't believe he actually fell for it either." Mokuba said with a chuckle. Though as it died down, the older decided to give voice to a question that pestered him.

"But how did you know Jounouchi's scared of ghosts?" He asked, blue eyes staring down at his brother with interest.

"What? He is?" Mokuba asked, surprised. So he hadn't known? Hmpf.

"Well, luck certainly seems to be on your side." Kaiba stated, another sip warming him.

"I guess."

"So how did you do it?" The brunet asked, interested to know. Discussing technicalities with his brother was most enjoyable.

"I used a record player. Then I hid it in his room when he was in the bathroom. The first hour or so everything recorded was quiet though. So he would have time to relax before hearing the noise." Mokuba informed casually, and Seto nodded, feeling oddly proud inside. This was a calculated plan thought up in a few hours tops, he was sure.

"Hn. Well thought out." Kaiba complimented in a cold voice.

"Really?" His brother asked, sounding almost hopeful.

"Yes." Seto stated, blue-grey eyes staring happily at him. He ignored them however, observing his breakfast instead.

"So what gave me in then? I thought I covered every detail. I even got back the record player when he ran to your room." Mokuba informed, a smile starting to grow. "In case you'd come to search the room because he'd get on your nerves."

"Your door. It was closed." Seto stated. "You always tend to have it slightly ajar at night." He looked into his brother's eyes, who immediately stared at the floor with a grave expression. Mokuba never seemed to have fully recover from when Pegasus captured him, despite he said he was fine. Kaiba knew it was a lie of course, but allowed his brother his own space and way of dealing. He sometimes doubted that was the right approach, but thought it'd be better if his brother learned to deal on his own. The doubts never vanished however.

"I know. I was kind of hoping you wouldn't notice that though. I shut the door on accident since I had to hurry out of Jou's room and close his door after me." Mokuba said, looking into his brother's eyes once more.

"I see." He stated, drawing out the last drop of coffee. "Well, are you finished? We better get going." His brother nodded, rising up from his seat, putting plates in the dishwasher. The CEO did as well, but stopped suddenly, his gaze lingering on his brother's figure. He needed to get this over with.

"Mokuba." He said, demanding attention. A frown was on his face.

"Yeah?" Mokuba asked, his face turning to look at his older brother's.

"No more mind games." He ordered to his brother's surprise. Blue-grey eyes narrowed.

"But Seto -!" Mokuba urged to no avail.

"I said no." Seto interrupted coldly. "I already thought I had settled this with you yesterday."

"No, I agreed I wouldn't advertise you to Jou." Mokuba said with a grin. Blue eyes only narrowed.

"I don't want any more of it. Are we clear?" Seto asked coldly, sharp eyes staring down, his arms folded. Mokuba narrowed his own eyes defiantly, attempting to say something, but decided against it and looked away.

"…Fine." He reluctantly agreed. But agreed nevertheless. Slightly disapproving the refusal to see that his way was the right, the brunet showed approval despite that.

"Good." His word was curt and cold, both brothers slightly annoyed by the other. "Find Jounouchi, we're leaving." Kaiba instructed in which Mokuba nodded and went off to find the blond. The CEO called the chauffeur, telling him to be ready any minute now.

It didn't feel quite as right as it should be. To reprimand Mokuba and make him promise to not do it again should feel good, allowing a sense of security to wrap around him. But it didn't. He was a fool, some would say, for the only thing he concentrated on was that his brother seemed upset with him. And he never liked that.

XxxX

Jounouchi had tricked him. Or at least, tried to. Apparently, this whole get-together at Yuugi's place was a sleepover as well. A minor detail he had decided to conveniently slip his mind, in case the brunet would actually reconsider and agree to go to the firsthand planned reunion. However, the idiot understood by the time when they were leaving the mansion, that Kaiba would under no circumstances join in on their pathetic festivities, and thus told both brothers of this detail so Mokuba could prepare. Hmpf. Seto was not pleased with this knowledge.

Jounouchi is not only stupid and unrealistic, but also an idiot. Though that did go hand in hand with being stupid…

Not wanting to give this subject any more thought, the brunet focused his gaze on the world passing him by outside the car window. His younger brother had just been dropped off a few minutes ago, leaving the two of them in silence. There seemed to still be tension between them, he figured. He didn't understand why though. He thought he had cleared that out of the way. But no, apparently Jounouchi wanted to drag them one step behind again. Hn. Worthless fool. What did he care, anyway? Kaiba could live with this uncomfortable scene anyway, he had greater things to think and worry about. He had a whole company to care for after all. Jounouchi was a petty detail in his grand life.

A rather intrusive, unnecessarily large petty detail. But petty nonetheless. At least he was supposed to be.

Mokuba still didn't seem quite happy with him either, which bothered the CEO. If there was anything he disliked it was whenever his brother had his mood swings, because those must be the cause of Mokuba's upset state of mind, since he could not control them. And now Jounouchi wasn't on happy terms with him either. Joy. People should learn to control their tempers, he bitterly thought to himself, his eyes narrowing unconsciously.

The air conditioner was on, leaving a cool temperature to relax his body. Summer was soon to be here, if not here already. At least the clouds from yesterday hadn't gone away. It looked like there would be rain, the grey in the sky hinting at that for obvious reasons. The air was still warm, humid almost.

It itched inside of him, despite how hard he tried to ignore it. A sleepover. Jounouchi, quite the hormonal teenager, sleeping in the same house, and perhaps even same room, as Mai. Would that go well? Could that even end happily on his behalf? Surely the woman wouldn't try anything…and neither would Jounouchi. Right?

Oh, who was he kidding. He had brushed off Jounouchi, rejected him and not showed any sign of returned feelings. The blond would forget him in such a short time lapse, he wouldn't even have the time to say 'food'.

But maybe he wasn't giving the blond enough credit. But he was a human after all, and like all humans, they betray and they're never there. Why should Katsuya be any different? It was better this way. Perhaps…he should even encourage a relationship between the two blondes. At least the CEO would get it through his head then, that they could never be.

Yes, that seemed quite fine. Not bad at all. Nothing like a dose of reality to make him snap out of childish fantasies. With this newly formed idea of a salvation from his love, he spoke.

"Jounouchi." He addressed the other man, turning his head to look at him. Brown eyes instantly turned towards the source of sound, staring at the CEO with a wondering expression.

"Yeah?" He asked.

"About this sleepover…" Kaiba began. Jounouchi tilted his head, interested in what would be said.

"Yeah?"

"I… Perhaps it's best for you to…" How the hell should he advertise this idea? Saying 'Jounouchi, go out with Mai so I can stop having these feelings for you. It's an order'? No, things don't work that way. Pity, though.

"What's with you? Can't talk straight anymore?" Jounouchi teased with a smirk. Kaiba glared at the rude interruption and snorted.

"Whatever." He shrugged off and turned to look out the window again. How desperate was he growing, if he was willing to try a new strategy so quickly just to rid of these feelings? This was not like him…

"What? No, come on! I'm just playing around. What was it that you wanted to say? I'll shut up this time, I promise." Jounouchi urged with a wailing voice, tugging his arm so he would turn to him once more. To see his face that, in the brunet's mind, was unmatched by anyone else's. He wasn't really attracted to people, and had never been either. The only reason Jounouchi proved to be an exception was because he had feelings for him. They affected him strangely.

"Just keep Mokuba out of trouble." Kaiba ordered, not even bothering to turn to look at the man beside him. He needed time to think this through. Would it really help if Jounouchi had another? Or was the pessimism in this matter only his weak side talking, not wanting to give up on the blond?

The hand on his arm slowly released its grip, loosening up. Fingertips merely brushed against his jacket now, hesitating if they should even be there to begin with. Somehow, he still felt them as clear as ever. His skin and Jounouchi's, so close. If not for his clothes, he would be able to feel the warmth.

"That's it?" Jounouchi asked, somewhat surprised.

"That's it." He confirmed with folded arms. Disappointed, Jounouchi withdrew his hand completely, keeping to his side of the seat inside the limousine. Blue eyes were masked, hard on the outside, seemingly unfazed by it all. Yet whenever concerned with Jounouchi, he found he was always affected more than he both let on and wanted to be.

Jounouchi's behaviour confused him and led to so many questions, awakening a curiosity deep within him. He wanted answers. He wanted to know why Jounouchi made so many easy promises of trust and loyalty, when he himself gave none in return. Not a scrape of security did he offer Jounouchi. But he also didn't want to engage in a conversation where the blond would preach of the beauty in friendship and talk about other sentimental aspects of life. How boring.

He heard the blond draw in a larger amount of air into his lungs while hesitantly sneaking quick glances of the brunet. Jounouchi's fingers played nervously with each other and the blond appeared to debate over something. His feet tapped the floor in a quick paced manner, and the brunet couldn't help but turn his eyes, wondering what the hell Jounouchi was on about. Was he nervous or simply bored?

Brown eyes noticed being watched and an apologetic grin grew on his face as he calmed his legs and fingers. Approving of the change, Kaiba turned away again. Surprisingly, he heard another intake of air, this time followed by words.

"You mad at me or something?" Katsuya asked carefully. A question the CEO was not prepared for. His eyes narrowed, not sure of where the origin of that thought would have come from.

"More than usual?" He taunted with a smirk Jounouchi couldn't see, his face still turned to the window.

"Yeah."

"Well, no." Kaiba stated, his eyes turning with a raised eyebrow. "Should I?" Seto inquired.

"No, just wondering. You've been…very quiet, you know." Jounouchi said, his eyes fixated on the CEO. His statement was true, he had been quiet throughout the drive. But he just had a lot to think about. Things that didn't need to be discussed.

"So have you." Kaiba easily stated, drawing away the attention from him.

"I've just been thinking a little…" He excused, almost mumbling. The words were heard perfectly clear despite that.

"About?" He didn't know why he asked. It came automatically. As long as the subject was away from him, he didn't care.

"Nothing really." Jounouchi shrugged off. Not bothering to keep digging, Kaiba didn't further the conversation, keeping quiet. His blond companion seemed to have a hard time doing that however.

"So…when are we, you know, going to meet again?" Katsuya asked, trying to act as if he didn't care. Kaiba snorted at his bad acting, yet held the comments to himself.

"Don't know." The brunet responded with a non-caring attitude. Brown eyes narrowed.

"What? You're not planning on seeing me again, or what?" He asked with a voice that alerted the CEO that his companion was starting to get angry. Seto didn't let it get to him, why should it? He'd drop off Katsuya any minute now once they reached his school, and who knew when they'd see each other again, having nothing planned?

Oh, who was he kidding? He'd kidnap him from classes as soon as possible if his weak heart would still be the same. Which it would with the likelihood of ninety-six percent. Yes, he had carefully estimated that number when in one of his ponderings over his incurable love. Such a sickness it was…

"If I could be so lucky." He mused with a smirk. His joke went by unappreciated by the blond, who made a low growl as he folded his arms.

"Fine! Be that way! Like I'd want to hang out with you anyway. Hmpf, I've got way better things to do anyway." He stated in a somewhat loud voice. The brunet listened to him with bored eyes, still paying him no visual attention. "Will you at least look at me when I'm arguing with you!" Jounouchi demanded, making a loud growl this time around. Kaiba dully turned his head, emotionless eyes staring at the blond.

"Happy?" Seto asked sarcastically, snorting rudely afterwards.

"Not really." Jounouchi grumbled, glaring full force. Blue eyes started to do so as well, and both teenagers quietened down, hateful stares sent to each other. The brunet snapped out of it however.

"This is useless…" He muttered, mainly to himself, and looked away from the blond. Jounouchi sighed, still slightly frustrated. No surprise there.

"So you're just going to come and drag me away from school whenever you miss me then, huh?" The blond asked in a bored voice, his eyes looking at the brunet. Kaiba turned his head, a confused expression on his face. It caused Jounouchi to be confused for a second before smirking to himself.

"Oh, as if you could ever survive without me!" He teased in a smug voice.

"I think I can manage quite fine, actually." Seto stated coldly.

"Whatever. But I'm giving you a heads up. You can't come on Monday morning. I have a pop quiz then." Jounouchi informed casually.

"One, what makes you think I will even come after you? And two, how would you know there will be a pop quiz? Don't tell me you can see into the future as well."

"Nah, I can't see into the future. I just 'accidentally' overheard my teacher talking about it to some other teacher."

"Accidentally?" He questioned sceptically.

"Alright, so I was spying on him. Big deal. I just wanted to find out where he writes his grades and change mine." He declared easily with a grin. Kaiba frowned at him.

"How honourable." Seto replied dryly.

"Oh, shut up." Katsuya demanded with a mutter.

Kaiba did just so, keeping to himself rather than being part of a conversation. He was not in one of his best moods. Still slightly angered by Jounouchi's careless act last night, and irritated that Mokuba did not see eye to eye with him, he obviously had things to think about. At least the blond was willing to let that incident go. That was a good thing, of course. Now if only he could do the same as well…

It was just that it, in some utterly idiotic way, meant something to him. And that angered him.

"Monday afternoon then?" Katsuya asked, a smug grin on his lips. Seto made a faint snort, staring coldly at the other.

"Whatever." And in a world where whatever meant yes, and his glares deep down harboured some sort of sick, twisted love, Kaiba found himself trapped within the spider web he had created, entangled in lie. Were facades supposed to feel this right, just because they enabled him to be with the other?

"It's a date then." Jounouchi stated with a pleased look. Kaiba smirked in a amused way due to his choice of words.

"In your dreams, Jounouchi." He said, causing the blond to widen his eyes.

"No! I didn't mean it like that!" Katsuya defended quickly.
"Sure you didn't." Kaiba said disbelievingly, snorting to prove his standpoint.

"Hey, it's true, I didn't!" Jounouchi said, glaring because of the teasing Kaiba put him through. Once again. Old habits die hard they say. But how about his new ones? Only time will tell.

XxxX

It was starting to get dark outside, he faintly noticed, his eyes having turned briefly to the windows behind him when hearing the rain splatter against the glass. The sound was far from relaxing and all too annoying for his taste, he decided as he cursed the rain mentally while he continued to work on his laptop. School had proven to be outmost productive for him. There was no geek patrol, there was no Jounouchi, and the people around him officially knew that they were to stay out of his business. He had been able to be quite the efficient worker.

Didn't mean he was in a good mood though.

Right now, the very second he was typing, both Mokuba and Jounouchi was over at Yuugi's place…that little shrimp. And there was Mai. And a sleepover.

The sheer thought drove him mad.

But, as a man of grace and ambition, he was able to put the haunting thoughts aside while working. Never mind that they would come back every time he became unfocused, which was as soon as he stopped typing for a moment or two. His mind seemed to drift too easily. This was not good for his business.

With a suppressed growl of irritation, because only Jounouchi made those kind of sounds and he'd rather be caught dead than have similar traits to that idiot, he rubbed his temples in a futile attempt to make himself more aware of his statistics that showed on his screen rather than Jounouchi betraying him. Even though there is nothing to betray, because they never agreed to be a couple, let alone not see other people, he still felt jealousy. Yes, the brunet irritably agreed, he was causing himself these problems. He really had little right to pity himself.

A bitter sigh, then he was up on his feet in a search for coffee. It was his drug. Well, coffee and Jounouchi.

Right then a familiar ringing signal caught his ears and he calmly walked over to the phone instead of walking downstairs to where hot liquid awaited. Damn technology, getting in his way when he least wanted it to.

"Kaiba." He said in a voice that told the caller he didn't want to talk, and it would be best for the aforementioned caller to act like they had reached the wrong house.

"Hi Seto." Mokuba greeted in a whispering voice.

"Mokuba?" He asked, worry starting to build inside of him. Why was his brother whispering? Were there burglars in the house, or something worse? And why'd he call him then, instead of the police?

"Yeah?" His younger brother asked in an unbothered voice.

"Why are you whispering?"

"Because I can't let them hear me."

"Who?"

"The gang, of course!" He said like it was the most obvious thing in the world. Kaiba's eyes narrowed.

"Oh…" Well, at least there was nothing to worry about. "What do you want then?"

"I thought you might want to know how Jou is doing." He could clearly visualise his little brother right now, sitting in a room with a closed door behind a larger furniture, hidden away from the rest of the world. Just so he could tell him this with an annoying smirk on his lips. Of course, if this image was true he did not know. For all he knew, Yuugi could be passed out next to him as well as Jounouchi and the rest…

Perhaps he should focus on something else instead of misfortunes…

"Hmpf. Nonsense." He rejected immediately. But he was glad, for his brother had called out of concern. A concern about a love for an idiot, but it proved their relationship was back on track once more. No argument between them could ever break them apart for long.

"Alright. So he's talked to Mai, -" Mokuba carried on, ignoring his older brother's comment. Which the brunet grew aggravated by.

"Didn't you hear what I said?" Seto asked in a colder voice.

"Will you let me finish!" Mokuba hissed, irritated.

"I don't need to hear this." Seto reminded with arrogance.

"But you want to." Mokuba pointed out. He could hear him smirk, if it was even possible.

"You're delusional."

"And you're in denial." The younger Kaiba easily retorted.

"Prove it."

"Seto!" Mokuba hissed out. "Do you want me to tell you or not!"

"Fine, I'll shut up. Ramble on, then. See if I care."

"He has talked to Mai, and one time they went off somewhere private. I couldn't really follow them. Otogi was talking to me how to behave around Aiko. You know, my date?" He informed. Blue eyes narrowed, not appreciating neither of the two facts his brother presented.

"I have great memory, Mokuba. How could I forget? And besides, I don't think he's the one you should go to with those types of problems. Hmpf, even Jounouchi is better than him! But if you must take love advice from the nerd squad, I suggest Yuugi, since he can't ask someone out even if his life depended on it." That would give Mokuba a better influence rather than Otogi or Jounouchi. Both of them were too pushy. Mokuba didn't need to be taught anything from them.

"Then you and Yuugi have something in common." Mokuba said with a smirk, teasing his brother a little.

"Touché." Kaiba said in a bored voice.

"Besides, don't worry. I think Otogi is a bit weird." Mokuba confided, putting his brother's worry to rest.

"Hmpf. He makes Jounouchi seem normal. Weird is an understatement." Seto commented.

"You seem to talk a lot about Jou, big brother." Dammit, those statements the brunet said didn't mean anything! His brother was reading too much into it. Maybe.

"So do you." He defended.

"Ah, right. But only for your sake."

"How kind of you, to waste your time talking about that idiot with me, just to get me annoyed." Kaiba replied in a bored tone, craving coffee badly. Maybe even a sandwich.

"Well, a brother's got to do what a brother's got to do."

"To be a pest?"

"And being helpful." Mokuba pointed out, not being offended by the previous comment. The CEO didn't mean it anyway.

"Wonderful combination." Kaiba said drawly.

"I'm doing this for your own good, Seto. I just -" Mokuba explained in a sullen voice, but he was interrupted. A voice was heard in the background, calling out to his brother. Before he knew it, there seemed to be movement heard, and then that voice he'd never forget.

"Hey Kaiba!" Jounouchi suddenly called out, sounding happy. A very faint "give me back the phone, idiot!" was heard from his brother, which the blond paid no mind to at all.

"Jounouchi?" Kaiba asked, surprised. A smirk tugged his lips unconsciously. And a frown grew inside his mind.

"Yup! Aren't you happy to hear my wonderful voice?"

"Yes, it's very hard to contain my joy." He said sarcastically. Though it was debatable if Jounouchi picked up on it though.

"Well, I'd say you're doing a good job at it." The blond commented, still as happy sounding as ever. A mutter from Mokuba about how rude the blond was seemed to be the exit line, since he heard a door shut right after.

"Shocking." He said sarcastically once again. "Now get off the phone, I was speaking to my brother."

"Nope. I'm holding him hostage. You want him, you come here." The blond revealed, probably wearing a stupid grin on his moronic face. Kaiba frowned.

"Is this your marvellous plan?"

"Well, I wouldn't call it marvellous, but if you insist…"

"Funny. I'm hanging up now." He alerted coldly, and before Jounouchi could even as much as finish the "no!" he was about to voice out, the brunet had already put the phone down in its cradle. Having won the battle and pissing Jounouchi off, he happily smirked to himself before stepping away from the phone. The coffee that had not yet been made was calling.

And apparently, so was he phone.

Raising an eyebrow, he reached out for the electronic, already suspecting it was Jounouchi, for he was not dumb. Before he had the chance to open his mouth however, the blond was indeed the one who had been calling since his yell was heard.

"Fucking asshole! What is wrong with you! Don't you know how to have a normal conversation on the phone! What are you, ancient! Never heard of the concept before!" His romantic interest scolded loudly with much irritation and anger in his voice. The CEO remained calm, having a face that almost looked bored.

"Oh. It's you." The brunet muttered.

And so it started, another argument so similar to the plenty others they had had before. It was natural though. Them not fighting, Jounouchi not yelling, and Kaiba not frowning was a concept he didn't dare to think about. It was a given that it had to be this way sometimes, like the laws of physics.

Of course, that didn't mean they couldn't behave around each other either.

"Stop sipping so loudly, it's disgusting." Jounouchi scolded the brunet, who on the other end sat in his luxurious kitchen with a cup of coffee in his hand. Because the blond would not let the CEO be at peace, and since he craved the dark liquid badly, Seto had compromised.

"I'm not sipping loudly. You're just being dramatic." He replied calmly, taking another sip as his eyes scanned the newspaper before him.

"Am not!"

Why yes, after having hung up on the blond three times, and being called back every time, he had come to realize that Jounouchi would not give up. So he decided to let this so called conversation go on for a while. No harm done in that.

It had been kept alive for nearly ten minutes. Which was, in his book, quite a long phone conversation. A very long one. Usually, he simply stated his business and got it over with.

This was certainly different…

Then again, that might be because Jounouchi never shuts up.

"Alright…so, I see…something green. Guess what it is." The blond told in a half-bored voice, obviously not so interested in this game himself.

"No." Kaiba refused in his cold voice.

"Dammit, you're boring!" Katsuya whined with a sigh.

"You're the one insisting on keeping this conversation alive. Not I."

"Just like you to be a smart-ass." The blond grumbled.

"Don't you have something better to do? For example, not disturbing me?"

"Better than annoying you? Hmm, no. Don't think so." He teased, a chuckle closely followed.

"Well, despite the fact that you seem to have no life, I do. My company is waiting." He gladly informed.

"Fine, fine." Jounouchi said, giving up. He could really picture him waving it off with his hand as well, rolling his eyes as if it was the brunet who had been the troublesome one. "Well, see you later, moneybags!" The blond bid his farewell using a cheery voice, adding the nickname with an extra tone of enthusiasm. And before he could retort, the beeping sound of the phone took over, alerting him that the blond had hung up on him.

"Hmpf." What a moron, he decided grumpily to himself as he listened to annoying beeps. Yet it was with a faint smirk that he exited the kitchen, walking up to his bedroom to work once more.

Because, sometimes, breaks could be really entertaining. Even if they were forced upon him.

XxxX

The rain was still infuriatingly persistent, attacking his windows without any rest. Despite that, he had been able to read plenty reports and started to sketch on a new game his company was going to make. Hours had passed by since his phone call with the blond, and it was safe to say that it was night.

Something bothered him. It didn't feel right being in the house without Mokuba in it. There was an empty space inside of it, he knew, that just waited for the young boy to fill it up. That moment he determinedly decided that sleepovers were completely unnecessary, and allowing his brother to go to one would not be accepted once more. So with that decided, he pondered over different variables in this new game he was creating, hoping to be struck down by a genius thought any minute. That would certainly save him a lot of energy.

His digital clock changed the number, his eyes briefly noticed. 22:34. It was late. For normal people anyway. For him, this was the beginning of the evening.

That didn't explain why that sound was heard though. Alerted immediately, his head slowly turned to his wall, staring blankly at the electronic on it. The intercom, which was connected to a similar one on his mansion gates, rang repeatedly, calling out to him in an urgent manner. Calmly he turned his gaze, watching the rain pour down so mercilessly on the outside. It was probably that that was bothering this surprise guest of his. With deliberately slow movement he walked up to it, pushing a button, enabling the other person and him to have a conversation.

"State your name and business." His voice ordered in his professional tone used amongst associates.

"Dammit Kaiba, it's me! Now open the freaking doors, or I'll break in!" The very impatient voice of a certain blond declared. Blue eyes widened for just a second before narrowing, wondering what the hell was going on. Why was he here? What happened to the sleepover? Had something gone wrong?

…Mokuba.

"Where's Mokuba, and how is he?" He asked immediately, unknowingly clenching his fist while he did so.

"The kid's alright. He's at Yuugi's. Now open up the fucking gates! I'm soaking wet, and your stalling ain't helping!" Relieved that his younger brother was in no harm, the brunet smirked as he pressed another button, allowing the gates to open.

"I don't know, Jounouchi, I think having you outside of my property is perfectly fine." He teased and heard the blond growl a bit before the gates were open enough for him to dash through. A smug look was on the CEO as he pushed another button, closing his gates now that Jounouchi had entered. But before going to greet the other, he took a towel from his bathroom, not even giving the action a second though. Who cares. It's his carpets the idiot will get wet if he doesn't take care of it anyway. Then he moved to his front door. This time also deliberately slow. He could imagine the red face of anger on Jounouchi right now.

And as he opened the large door, greeted by a slightly cold breeze while he did so, it turned out to be the truth. Brown eyes glared, also appearing to know he had taken his sweet, long time to move. Before even waiting to be invited inside, Katsuya forced himself through the door, weakly pushing the brunet out of the way.

Blue eyes stared with amusement at the other as Katsuya removed his shoes and jacket before rubbing his arms to rid of the cold. He was intrigued by his movements, as he always was. There was something about them that separated Jounouchi from the rest. The blond stood out, despite his ordinary looks. He suddenly wondered if he was considered to look normal, but dismissed the thought.

"Here." Kaiba said in a cold voice, taking the blonde's attention. He carelessly threw the towel at him then. Brown eyes looked deeply surprised, wondering why he was given this item. Seto suddenly felt the need to explain himself so Jounouchi wouldn't get any ideas. Surely, there was no need to think he did this because of any deeper interest in the other man. "Idiot, you think I'd just let your dripping body walk around my house? Hmpf, I don't want to send it all to the dry-cleaners just because you decided to pay a visit." He said grumpily with folded arms. Katsuya made a small nod before rubbing the item against his hair to dry it. Seto continued to stare.

It felt almost like a déjà vu.

The bottom of Jounouchi's pants and his shirt seemed to remain wet, and the towel wasn't particularly helping. That the brunet understood. What he also understood was that he would either have to have the blond in this state, or offer him some of his own clothes…

Dreadful thought. As if he'd want to taint his attires with Jounouchi's body.

Deciding that he could take a look in his closet for something he didn't particularly like to begin with, he walked away from the blond without a word. It's not like it matters. He was doing this for selfish reasons.

"Hey, wait up!" Jounouchi's voice called out from behind him, just noticing the brunet missing. After a few running steps the blond walked side by side with the CEO. Blue eyes didn't even acknowledge the other man however, wearing an expressionless face.

What was Jounouchi even doing here? The question was particularly itching inside of him, but to be honest, he wasn't sure if he even wanted to know the answer. A revelation of something sentimental, again, would not be appreciated. He blamed Yuugi on those emotional outbursts Jounouchi had a habit of having. Surely he wouldn't be like this without the help of the shrimp.

Perhaps, in a way, it was Yuugi's fault that he was mildly angry at Jounouchi, for the blond would have never been that weak and sentimental last night, even furthering to kissing him, without Yuugi's assistance and guidance throughout the years. After all, he must've been a big influence on the blond all this time. It was only logical.

Then again, this hypothesis was not well based and thought out only seconds ago. So it could be wrong. Even though it would feel great to have another thing to condemn the short teenager for. But, when it comes down to it, Jounouchi has the common intelligence to choose who he wants to be and what he wants to do, sadly enough. Many times he should be led by a script, but that was beside the point.

What the point was, however, the brunet forgot as the blond entered his bedroom beside him, throwing himself on the bed and wrapping the quilt around his cold body while wearing a happy grin.

It was then decided. Jounouchi had to get some dry clothes on him. Kaiba would not sleep in a wet bed. And not a moist one either.

"Out of the bed, idiot." He ordered with his back turned against Jounouchi, currently watching his collection of clothes with a sceptical eye. If he remembered correctly, he did own some trousers he wears to bed while it's winter. Those he could offer Jounouchi easily.

"I do whatever I want!" The voice of the other protested, glaring a hole in his back, he was sure.

"Get over here." Kaiba ordered. And despite the growls and reminders that Jounouchi had his own free will, the blond does get up from the bed and move over, though not forgetting to still glare and clench his fist when looking at the brunet. And Kaiba only smirks, pleased by this for some reason.

Because, maybe, this is how it should be.

"Take these on." Seto demanded, holding out a pair of trousers that are too long for the other, and maybe even a bit too slim around the waist considering the large amount of food Jounouchi can shove down. But this is the best he can do right now. He also reminds himself that he doesn't care. He's doing this because he just doesn't want Jounouchi to make his entire household have traces of rain in it. Therefore it will be good enough for Katsuya.

And Katsuya stares with a dumbfounded expression at both the CEO and his trousers, his eyes darting back and forth. Probably wondering where the generosity suddenly came from. But Kaiba doesn't feel like explaining himself twice, so he just throws the clothing item on his companion before walking over to his desk. Jounouchi doesn't need a shirt anyway, the one he's wearing is dry enough. It was protected by a jacket after all.

So he starts working again, blocking out the world around him like he has done countless times before.

It doesn't take long for Jounouchi to pull up a chair beside him. And when he does, Kaiba does indeed notice he has changed his pants. He smirks to himself as he keeps his eyes on the screen, feeling victorious for one reason or another. Silly, really.

Jounouchi starts to freely look around on his neatly organized working space, looking at both papers and diagrams to entertain himself. The brunet briefly notices that the blond prefers to look at the diagrams better than the rest. Especially those with a large variation of colours. Figures. His mind is easy to entertain.

Jounouchi is creating a mess. He lets him do it, though. But his eyes glare and his typing stops so he can fully concentrate on glaring, and he is aware he looks very stiff this moment. But he doesn't say anything to the oblivious fool who has yet to notice the unfriendly gaze cast upon him, or the lack of typing. Why he doesn't know. His mouth won't let him at the moment. Perhaps it's dry.

When Jounouchi does notice his angry looks however, brown eyes widen as if in realization, and he scratches the back of his head nervously, desperately trying to fix the order of papers to be right where they were before. Quite a failed attempt, and they both know it. So Jounouchi just stops trying, leaving the mess to be dealt by someone more capable. Like the brunet. But Kaiba doesn't do anything at the moment, going back to work instead. He can feel Jounouchi's bored mind screaming to be entertained. He ignores those screams, but the voice he can not block out.

"So…what did you do today then?" The blond asked, trying to ease the situation and make the CEO think of something else rather than the mess he had caused on his neatly organized desk.

"Were in school. Worked." Seto replied in a distracted tone, mainly focusing on working.

"Ah…exiting." Jounouchi commented, though not sarcastically, not knowing what else to say.

"Hn." Kaiba replied, for it was all he could think of saying. It then went irritatingly quiet between them, and Jounouchi stared into space, thinking of something or another. Blue eyes let go of the screen, calmly turning his eyes to watch the blond. He wondered, and he wanted answers. It was illogical to let it just be ignored without interrogation.

Katsuya now noticed Kaiba had stopped typing, and turned his face to meet the CEO's, brown eyes staring into blue ones. And Kaiba contemplated with a blank expression while Jounouchi wondered with confused eyes.

"Why did you come?" Seto finally managed to ask, his voice surprisingly soft. The rain outside continued to bring a constant noise, aggravating him slightly in this situation. Its sound even emits cold, the brunet thinks. He had never liked rain.

Jounouchi's eyes faltered upon hearing his question, looking away from the other. The tense atmosphere was now easily picked up. A very unconvincing shrug was soon followed.

"Don't know." Jounouchi said, obviously lying. He could tell, for he could see the false package the words were delivered in. Blue eyes narrowed sternly. He wanted an answer, but the blonde's reply indicated it could have to do with emotions. Did he even want to go down that road?

…No.

So he let it go.

With a small nod to prove he had heard the other, he turned back to his trusted electronic, about to type again. But as his hands moved up to the keyboard, two other ones managed to grab a hold of one of his own. He froze at the contact. Blue eyes quickly turned, looking at the other man with a shocked expression. Jounouchi didn't pay much mind to the CEO, appearing to be in his own world as he stared at his hands holding one of the brunet's.

Slowly Katsuya took a firmer grip of his cold body part, bringing it closer to himself so his arms wouldn't have to be outstretched. Kaiba watched his hand being moved away, not quite sure over what to say or do.

"Your hand's cold." Jounouchi mumbled softly, transfixed with watching the three fists. Two of which consisted of the blond man's, and the third one being his own, currently being shown much attention by the other man. Kaiba could feel the warmth the foreign hands gave to him. It felt nice. Though that word certainly was inadequate, for it did in no way explain the exact range of emotion he felt, just from one touch. Nice, he decided, was undoubtedly an understatement.

But blue eyes were still surprised, not knowing how to react to this sudden action. They turned back to normal though, watching Jounouchi being so unnaturally calm when doing something like this.

"What are you doing?" He asked calmly, not a hint of irritation in his voice. That was disturbing, because he wanted there to be. And as he wondered, the blond shrugged before facing him, a lopsided smile on his features.

"You work too much. So I've got to keep your hands away from the computer. Plus, I'm bored, and this is the only way to get your attention." He excused in a joking tone, brown eyes looking quite content as they stared into blue ones. Jounouchi still held his hand, his fingers making small movements on his skin. Caressing securely and subtly, yet all too evidently for the brunet.

And he gave in.

"I work too much, you say?" He asked, a familiar smirk on his lips. Katsuya picked up on the change of behaviour immediately, his smile growing as he nodded almost eagerly.

He was risking himself while doing this, basically inviting Jounouchi to cut him wide open and tear out his heart, the way he acted. He never knew of this affection before, the one they shared. Touches being uncomfortable were now comforting. Embraces that suffocated now a temporary release from the world. Jounouchi had, after all, brought him into a new one, one where he had a new role. Not of being the CEO or a brother, but just being there for he was wanted.

"Yup."

"I don't agree." Kaiba stated flatly, and the blonde's face fell, narrowing his eyes at the CEO, angry at him for raising his hopes. "But I could use a break." Seto said carelessly as he stood up, withdrawing his hand from Jounouchi.

"Ha! I knew you weren't a robot!" Katsuya said, his previous disappointment wiped away as he too stood up, happiness evident in his features. Eye contact was shared, neither knowing what would come after this. What was he supposed to do now?

Once again, brown eyes looked away, as if realizing something. Katsuya's shoulders tensed, and he appeared dazed. He had seemed quite abnormal the whole evening, so the brunet didn't care.

Food. That was the first thing his mind called out. Jounouchi liked food. It couldn't go wrong. That way they'd have something to do, and his companion would keep his mouth shut. Hopefully.

"Hungry?" Seto asked, causing Katsuya to direct his gaze at him again. The blond seemed to have an input and opened his mouth, but closed it nevertheless, though a bit reluctantly, as if knowing better. A small smile Kaiba believed was forced played on his lips soon afterwards.

"Always. You know that." Jounouchi joked, his smile a full grown grin now. There was something though, something off. He was not the best people reader when dealing with emotions, but he did know when someone was hiding things from him. Like Jounouchi was at the moment. And it disturbed him. He did not like secrets, and he did not like not knowing. But he wasn't so blunt as to ask what Jounouchi was hiding without even trying to extract the information in more subtle ways prior.

Question was, did he even want to know? It might just be a waste of time, or some other useless thing.

While in his pondering, both stood still, eyes locked. Their bodies not that close, but close enough. And he suddenly wondered why he had such a hard time to motivate himself to move and go downstairs to the kitchen. Perhaps the blond had the same problem, for he didn't do anything either. Just staring. It started to unnerve him. He had to get away from those eye. As he cleared his throat, he looked away, walking over to a window to watch his property. Just like he had this morning. Jounouchi's eyes were no longer visible to him. No longer making him unnerved. This way he could muster courage and collect his scattered thoughts.

"Kaiba…" The blond said with a heavy sigh, sullen steps approaching his tall form. Jounouchi was close, he could feel it. Hear it. And soon enough a forehead was lightly pressed against his back in between his shoulder blades. As if Katsuya's head needed to rest. He grew a bit stiff by the contact, controlling his breathing so nothing would be left to chance. Familiar hands held onto him, onto his waist and clothing fabric. Not holding like he wanted him in a passionate manner. Jounouchi was holding him for the sake of comfort, and, perhaps, even need. He did not know how it was to be needed by other's than Mokuba and his company.

"You've been more strange than usually today." Kaiba noted in his normal voice, acting as if nothing was going on at the moment.

"Maybe you're just imagining things." Jounouchi advised, not moving an inch. Kaiba didn't respond, feeling the arms that slowly encircled his waist. And for reasons he couldn't understand, one of his own hands rested atop of Jounouchi's. Katsuya's skin felt so right against his own. But he had a bad feeling. About what he wasn't sure. But it was there, and it wouldn't rest.

"Kaiba, you like spending time with me, right?" The young man behind him asked, still no change of emotion in his tone. Blue eyes were downcast, watching the windowsill dully. Contemplating over the question. Not the answer, but the question. Why was Jounouchi asking this to begin with?

"I think you can be the judge of that yourself." He dismissed, though not daring to release his weak grip on Jounouchi's hand that was against his stomach. It was nice to have him so close by the end of the day. Was this how normal couples lived?

"So, then I'm the highlight your day, and you anticipate every minute of it like the obsessed man you are?" Jounouchi joked, his tone seemingly brighter. Kaiba snorted in a amused way.

"Not only are you stupid, Jounouchi, but you're clearly delusional as well."

"Well, it was worth a shot." The blond said with a shrug. They grew silent then, neither wanting to move. It was too comfortable to stay like this. To support and lean on another person, physically that is. But maybe, it could even be translated to mentally as well. Just maybe.

But they weren't statues, and every man has to make his move.

A heavy sigh was heard from behind him, and he knew the source. The arms released their hold of the CEO, taking a weak grip of his arm to turn him around. Confused, the brunet still did as Jounouchi pleased, his blue eyes staring down at the blond. Wondering why he just broke the comfortable moment. But his eyes did not reach Jounouchi's, for they hid behind the mop of hair.

"Kaiba…I've got something to tell you." He voiced out slowly. Calmly. It was alarming. And he still could not see his eyes. Jounouchi's face was directed downwards, perhaps holding his gaze on the floor. Kaiba nodded anyway, though it would not be seen.

The hand on his arm made itself known again, tugging him to follow as Katsuya started to walk. Dumbly, he did as the blond wanted him to do. But something inside of him warned him not to. Told him to escape this scenario. There had been bad omens all day long. And he did not trust Jounouchi enough to not be the cause of his anxiety.

Stopping by the edge of the bed, Kaiba raised an eyebrow, questioning this. Jounouchi released his hold on him, gesticulating for him to sit. And despite that voice of reason inside of him telling him not to, he did so anyway. He was mad, that was a given. Being with Jounouchi maybe made him stupid.

He sat patiently, a look of boredom plastered on his face, staring at the man that appeared to have gone mute. Jounouchi walked over to his desk and dragged his work chair over to where he waited. A bit hesitantly Katsuya sat down on it in front of the brunet, their knees touching.

The their eyes met, and Kaiba almost grew afraid. Feeling there was something more than a petty friendship speech coming for him this time.

"I'm sorry, Kaiba. I'm probably going to disappoint you now, but…I have to say something or I might just go crazy." Katsuya explained, trying to bring in a joking atmosphere but failing horribly. Remorse clouded his eyes, and a sharp intake of air was heard. How many of those had he heard today anyway? No matter. Blue eyes widened slightly, understanding what might just come to happen. He had to get out…before it was too late.

"After dinner. You said you were hungry." He reminded, hoping to spark some interest in the other. Jounouchi remained immobile however, and the heavy atmosphere almost squeezed him down to the ground.

He wanted to escape, but knew he couldn't. Whatever Jounouchi might say, it would come up sooner or later. He had to endure it. Kaiba's didn't run. He wouldn't run. And that mantra repeated inside of him, yet he remained unwilling to abide the words, but did so anyway.

Jounouchi slowly leaned forward, his elbows resting on his lap and his hands taking a hold of Kaiba's. Then, as if deciding that was the wrong way to go, he released them and kept his hands to himself. A small smile was now evident on his lips. But it did in no way contain any joy. Kaiba on the other hand was frozen, unable to do anything. Paralysed by stupidity, he could not tear himself away from what was about to happen. Perhaps there was a part of him that wanted this.

"I guess I shouldn't keep you waiting…" Jounouchi mused, his way of apologizing for taking so long to speak. Kaiba did not react, his eyes glued on the other male in front of him. His heart beat considerably faster, and he couldn't help but wonder if he was looking forward to it.

"But you probably have it all figured out anyway. Don't you, Kaiba? You're supposed to be a genius after all. And I know I'm not, so you must've seen it coming." Katsuya mused, oddly distant from the scenario. As if it didn't apply to him. But the sombre attitude radiated from him so clearly despite that. He could see it. But he still disagreed with his statement. He was a genius concerning smarts, and not emotions. Emotions could not be calculated. They were never logic, as he had learned first hand with this infatuation turned to love.

"So anyway… I kissed Mai." Jounouchi admitted in a similar tone. Blue eyes widened. This was not what he had expected Jounouchi to say. Confusion, shock and even slight anger washed over him so suddenly. Even the slightest bit of disappointment, having nearly hoped for something greater.

"What?" His mouth moved before he had any time to think, surprising to himself as well as the blond. Brown eyes blinked at him, as if curious why he reacted on impulse.

"I…" Jounouchi started, but ending the supposedly sentence instantly. "It was that game. Truth or Dare, you know?" Oh. That game. Hmpf. He knew it was stupid. "Honda dared me to kiss her. So I-"

"Why are you telling me this!" Kaiba asked, partially insulted. Why on earth did Jounouchi even think for a second he wanted to listen to this! "I'm not interested in knowing who you kiss or don't." He stated coldly, his tongue poisonous. But the words were far from the truth.

"It's got a reason, I swear." The blond promised. So Seto let it go, if a bit reluctantly. Seeing he had calmed down, Jounouchi continued.

"Mai's…not ugly you know. And she's probably the strongest girl, or woman, whatever, that I know. Though don't tell her I said that. And…I guess always used to like her, because it was hard not to." Jounouchi explained. Anger boiled within the CEO, clenching his jaw. He knew that maybe this revelation was supposed to be good, a final proof they could never be. But it felt so incredibly hurtful all the same. Jounouchi was cutting his heart, and he didn't even seem to mind nor notice.

"I'm failing to see the point of this." Kaiba said in a cold voice, snorting as he stood up. Brown eyes widened.

"No, you sit down! Now! You need to hear this!" The blond said, taking a hold of his arm. He seemed desperate, in dire need to get this all out. Blue eyes looked down into familiar brown ones only to succumb to the request. He sighed irritably.

"Just get it over with." He ordered, seating himself again with folded arms and crossed legs.

"Thank you." Jounouchi said before continuing. "So, when Honda dared me, you'd guess I should feel like a pretty lucky guy, right?"

"You tell me." Seto dismissed with a frown.

"Well…I didn't." Jounouchi admitted, his eyes avoiding to look into his. Blue eyes looked surprised, and he knitted his brow. Did this mean…?

"You look surprised, Kaiba. Maybe you weren't as smart as I'd thought." Jounouchi joked, looking sincerely amused. Kaiba's frown deepened.

"Don't play games." He warned.

"I'm not."

"Then get it over with."

"You know, you're making it really hard for me to make this come out the way I wanted it to."

"I don't care." Seto stated and received a glare from the man in front of him. There was silence and a deep breath from Jounouchi before the blond continued.

"Just when I was about to kiss her, do you know what I thought about?" Jounouchi asked in a serious, yet troubled, voice. Kaiba could only feel anger, as the subject made him feel so.

"If she'd taste like food or candy?" Kaiba asked sarcastically.

"No, asshole." Katsuya insulted whilst glaring angrily. "It was you." Katsuya said firmly, his eyes a bit softer than before.

"…What?" The brunet managed to ask, his mind temporarily overpowered by shock.

"And I realized that, hell, I can't do this anymore!" Jounouchi began to rant passionately. "I can't do this with you, and I can't keep lying to myself, or to you!" Jounouchi exclaimed, ignoring the brunet's question. Kaiba remained disturbingly calm however. Blue eyes stared blankly ahead of him. It was hard for him to react. Neither option in his head sounded right to him.

"I don't even know how it happened! One day, it was just there! And it wouldn't go away, and spending more and more time with you didn't exactly make it disappear either!" He raved, getting out his frustration, animated hand gestures accompanying his voice. Occasionally holding his head as if in a headache. Katsuya obviously appeared troubled by these feelings as well as Kaiba, and he took minor relief knowing that. At least the blond was aware not all was fun and games.

"I know you don't seem that interested, and I know you shouldn't be, but somehow I can't help but think…that you are." Katsuya stated, last part if a bit softly. Words forbidden, Jounouchi lowered his head, clenching his hands, appearing to mentally prepare himself. Kaiba still had a urge to run, but knew it would be cowardly.

"I'm sorry, Kaiba…" Jounouchi mumbled before lifting up his face, sharing eye contact with the brunet. "But I think I'm in love with you." He confessed, his eyes showing a sincerity Seto wished wasn't there. Kaiba instantly grew a distant look in his eyes, trying to take himself away from the scene mentally.

"Love…" The brunet said, tasting the word, staring off into space, removed from reality it seemed. He disapproved greatly. This was not supposed to happen. Not at all. And to his surprise, he found that the word tasted bitterly against his tongue.

His heart pounded, blood growing warmer inside of him. The words Jounouchi should have never said actually came to affect him. For some odd reason, there was a part inside of him that liked hearing them. He quickly ignored that source of stupidity. He hadn't counted on this sort of reaction from his side.

After a few moments of complete silence, Katsuya started to look worriedly at him, though not courageous enough to utter any words. Suddenly, blue eyes glared at the man in front of him, a newfound anger inside of him growing.

"Liar." Kaiba accused, narrowing his eyes. Brown eyes widened, but Kaiba didn't care. Immediately he stood up, in a suppressed rage over what he though he had figured out. It must have been in a very quick and unseen manner that he rose up, for the blond was deeply surprised by the action, drawing back as far as he could in his chair.

"What?" The blond asked, not appearing to follow his thoughts. Kaiba wasn't bothered with this, Katsuya could never keep up mentally.

"It's that game. You were dared to say this, weren't you? Hmpf. I'm not a fool, Jounouchi. You really thought I would buy that silly act?" He stated, his words stinging in the air. Brown eyes glared back, standing up as well. Katsuya was angry now, an emotion not unfamiliar to Kaiba. At least something he knew how to deal with.

"I wasn't lying!" The shorter of the two defended with clenched fists. "I'd never do something like that to you! You know that, you asshole!" Katsuya defended with passion. Or rather, passionate anger. The brunet was unfazed by the words.

"Hmpf. Cut the drama."

"Why don't you believe me?" Katsuya asked, a sort of sadness lurking in his eyes.

"Why should I?" Seto asked back nonchalantly, as if it was a stupid thought to begin with.

"I'm telling the truth, Kaiba!" It didn't matter. All was lost now. All sense of odd security, gone. All cards had to be put on the table, and he didn't like it. He'd feel quite naked without them. He needed the cards, needed protection.

"I want you out." Seto stated coldly, his face not betraying the notion that had taken over him. His companion however, was all but expecting it.

"W-what?"

"I said out. Get. Out. Do I need to spell?" He mocked, smirking, hands in pockets as if to appear relaxed when he really wasn't. His old behaviour shining through. "You can lead yourself out on your own, I'm sure." He dismissed, turning around from the other male, attempting to go to his desk. A growl was heard from behind him, clearly objecting whilst being frustrated. Quickly the blond had sprinted in front of him, glaring up into blue eyes. His hands holding a firm grip on his collar, forcing him to lower his head, if just a bit. Kaiba narrowed his eyes.

"What the hell is wrong with you!" Jounouchi asked in a loud voice. Hearing no reply from the taller teen, he continued, this time in a voice a bit softer. "You can't seriously believe that, right?" No…he couldn't. And that was what wrecked it all. Jounouchi's feelings seemed sincere, sadly enough.

"It doesn't matter." He stated simply, brushing off Jounouchi's hands easily, allowing himself the pleasure to stand up straight. But he did not move away, locked in a glare with the shorter one.

"Like hell it does!" What was the problem with Jounouchi? Why had he such a hard time to connect with the fact that he was being rejected? Hmpf. Typical. The loser never admits defeat, and keeps trying anyway. He shouldn't have expected any less. "I told you how I felt, and you're just…just…!" Katsuya added, faltering towards the end, losing his train of thought.

"Told me what? That you have a measly crush on me?" Kaiba asked, a sudden undertone of anger in his voice that he tried to hide. Tried to hide that he was disappointed that Jounouchi did not feel as strongly as he did. Jounouchi just gave him false hope this way, and he didn't like being teased.

Because, when it came down to it, he loved Jounouchi. And Jounouchi had apparently just started to form a little school boy crush, a weak infatuation, on him. He was not special in any way. He was not more desired that any other person Jounouchi most likely had had a crush on. That revelation stung him, like salt in his wounds.

A snort escaped from him as he looked down on Jounouchi as if he was worth nothing. His forced exterior that clashed so severely with his interior.

"Do you know how many people that share that feeling?" Seto asked coldly. Suppressed anger slowly started to show however, if only a bit. "I know for sure there are several women out there, claiming to have the same feelings as you do! What's the difference? Why should I care?" He asked, trying to make the other man feel small.

"Don't you even compare me to them, you jerk! They don't even know you!"

"And what? You do?" He taunted.

"I thought I did anyway." Jounouchi bit back bitterly in a mutter, clear disappointment showing in his eyes. Seto made a soft snort, a sign that he was calming down.

"Proves how much you know." He replied arrogantly, not a hint of mercy in his eyes. Jounouchi's face darkened as he went silent, and Kaiba did the same, not wanting to talk. The temporary quiet room was soon filled with sound despite that.

"…So it meant nothing all along, is that what you're saying?" Jounouchi asked carefully, staring down on the ground.

"Maybe I am."

"Then I definitely know you're lying." Katsuya claimed, a saddened, but victorious expression on his face. "People who don't care don't act like you do, Kaiba. Not like you did." There was truth in those words. But he could not let his façade falter.

"You're ignoring what really matters, Jounouchi. A pathetic little crush won't get you anywhere. You're just confused." The CEO brushed off arrogantly. It only annoyed the other even more.

"Stop talking to me like I'm a kid! I'm not confused!" He spat, face growing red out of anger. Kaiba's remained pale as usual. "And it's not fair for you to judge me on my feelings! What the hell do you expect me to do! Love you!" Katsuya asked harshly, snorting as if to insult. "Why! You don't even love me, you asshole!" The blond raved, and the brunet felt that the words must've been powerful, for they stung. Of course. The thought of Jounouchi loving him was ludicrous. There was no reason to have hoped otherwise.

"I…" Then why did it feel like his heart was brutally squeezed, hurting him for no apparent reason?

He had not expected such a blow aimed at him. And he stared down with blank eyes as if in a daze. His muscles were tense, causing his body to be stiff. His time for rejection had bestowed upon him, and he found he didn't quite like the feeling it gave him. A hole in his heart, knowing Jounouchi was unable to love him. But the thought was silly, he reminded himself, and kept it at that. As he then realized just how stupid he must look he swiftly turned away, finding relief that he could not see Jounouchi right now, who's eyes had grown so wide from his silent reaction. Sometimes, silence speak louder than any action nor word could ever say.

"…Kaiba?" Jounouchi asked, a look of something resembling fear, or perhaps worry, in his eyes. But that the CEO could not see. A small gulp was heard, most likely an involuntarily one, before he began once more. "Kaiba…you…you love me?" The blond asked hesitantly. It showed in his voice that he did not know how to act at the moment. The brunet couldn't blame him. He didn't know either.

Suddenly he felt so vulnerable.

"I said get out." He calmly reminded, refusing to look. He felt pathetic doing so, but pretended the outside world behind the windows created such a better place to look at.

He heard no retreating footsteps walk out of his room, and he guessed Jounouchi did not abide by his request, or rather, his demand. Still too weak to face him, he remained frozen like the statue he suddenly wanted to be. Emotionless. If only…

A warm palm brushed against his own from behind him, making him wonder when exactly he had taken out his hand from the pocket. Not that it mattered.

A gentle squeeze, to assure him, soon followed. Yet all the brunet thought of was that this was his personal doom.

A body moving closer, slowly, one centimetre at a time to see if the action would be accepted, and his body grew warmer by the closeness. But his eyes refused to look, inwardly scolding himself for allowing his weaknesses to have shown. Jounouchi knew now. He knew he loved him. And the thought scared him. Jounouchi had control over him. He could use that information against him. Kaiba hated to have to rely on someone else to know he's safe.

He contemplated, strategically wondering what would be the most profitable move at the moment. A solution was in front of his nose the whole time, but he had a hard time embracing it. Eventually, however, he knew he would have to.

The body beside his moved, letting go of his hand. Now in front of him, Kaiba had a hard time keeping his vision as Jounouchi-free as possible. So he succumbed, his gaze falling on the other man. He could not decipher the emotion, or maybe even emotions, taking place on Jounouchi's face, feeling that small smile was not true.

The brunet did not move, uncertain of what was going on. Yet he had such a hard time objecting, and he felt himself being more pathetic and ridiculous than ever before because of this. He was weak, and he was slipping, falling into a world unknown, controlled by emotions as if it was his master. He did not want to become that kind of person. He feared it.

A look of what could be interpreted as pity shone from brown eyes, and Kaiba narrowed his own. He hated pity. Loathed it with a passion. He didn't need it. Not even in a situation like this.

Unsurely Katsuya lifted his hand, aiming it for his cheek, that he could see. But he glared, disapproving of the action. And as if the blond thought otherwise now, he hastily lowered his arm, letting it fall to his side again. A helpless look painted his face, his lips in a thin, pressed line. But Seto didn't think much of it, mostly concerned with his own pride at the moment.

"You have to choose, Kaiba." The sudden soft whisper was heard from Jounouchi's mouth. It contained a hint of remorse, as if the blond didn't quite like this idea himself either. "I don't want to force you to be with me," he explained in a low tone. "but I don't want to wait around either. I know you'd just ignore me the best you could if I gave you time to think about it. That way you wouldn't have to make a choice. And then it'd definitely be a no." He admitted, looking into blue eyes who had now stopped glaring.

A decision was required from him, something he had tried to avoid for so long. Something he had been unable to make all this time. Now Jounouchi suddenly wanted him to make one, just like that? It wasn't as easy as it sounded. This was too complicated for him that it perplexed him often.

In a firm gaze he stared down in his silent contemplation. Words would be needed to get out soon. But first he had to decide. And he hated Jounouchi for it.

Acting on impulse, Jounouchi lifted both his hands this time, reaching up for his face. The brunet didn't move, but made no sign of cooperating or agreeing with this action either. His eyes merely observed, feeling the palms being placed at his jaw and neck area. Feeling the warmth it brought with, he grew less worried. Seeing the blond draw a breath to collect some courage, the shorter of the two suddenly grew taller, most likely standing on his toes or something alike. He didn't see that though. All visible now was the face drawing closer, and for some reason, his own palms clenched and began to sweat due to it. Pathetic. He was nervous.

Hesitation was still clear in those brown eyes, but the blond still leaned closer, guiding the brunet's head down with his hands placed on him. He moved slowly, Kaiba noticed. He suspected it to be deliberately. In case the CEO didn't want to do this, so he could break away. But Kaiba's will to resist had been shut off it seemed, and so he stood there, his arms hanging by his sides like dead weights. He felt moronic, not quite sure what to do. Not quite sure what it was he even wanted to do.

As the face was remarkably close now, their breaths mixing in a familiar way, Jounouchi stopped, looking into blue eyes, trying to find something. A few tormenting seconds later, brown eyes closed, and the brunet knew what was coming next. Mimicking, his own shut as well as he mentally prepared, glad his face had showed nothing but indifference while his internal battle had taken place.

Something warm lightly pressed against his lips, and he noticed the foreign lips on his were faintly moist. For reasons unknown his heart beat faster, and he was finding himself enjoying this. But too soon, Jounouchi drew away his lips, before the brunet had the urge to lift his arms and press the other closer. This action was dismissed, seeing Jounouchi breaking away from him. An apologetic smile, a lopsided one, formed. Genuine this time.

"Sorry. I've just wanted to do that for some time now." He explained, grinning. As if the seriousness of this situation had been thrown away. "In case you'd say no or anything. Had to take the chance now or never, you know." Katsuya continued, that fitting grin still gracing his features. Kaiba nodded curtly, not finding any appropriate verbal answer to that. He found himself wishing he had deepened the kiss. Instead he had not done anything, being a passive man, enjoying what was thrown his way.

"If I agree on a relation, what will happen?" He asked as if it concerned business. Katsuya didn't seem to mind that however, a form of happiness showing in his eyes.

"I'd… I would be with you." He answered as calmly as he could.

"And if I don't agree?" Kaiba asked in the same manner. The blonde's cheerful disposition faltered.

"Then we wouldn't be together."

"Would you leave me alone?" He asked with indifference.

"What?" Katsuya asked, not quite understanding the question.

"If I say no. You'd leave me alone then? Completely?"

"I can't force you to be with me. I already told you that. Besides, it wouldn't feel right." Jounouchi explained, feeling at unease, his eyes drifting.

"Hn." Kaiba said in a tone that sounded neither approving nor disapproving. He contemplated, leaving the other man to stare and anticipate.

The annoying rain made itself reminded again. The sound of it attacking his windows was heard once more. But he had more important things to care for at the moment.

Jounouchi grew uncomfortable with waiting, hands in pockets, trying to look carefree when he was far from. Blue eyes observed him. He'd miss him, he was sure. Though that did sound overly sappy in his book.

Deciding he himself needed to make a proper decision for once, and take action as well, Kaiba moved closer towards Katsuya, their eye contact never breaking. Widened brown eyes watched him do so, but no words were spoken. He liked it better this way. Talking was unnecessary in this moment. He could feel the body heat of Jounouchi radiating towards him. He was always invitingly warm.

His hand soon found itself holding Jounouchi's chin, tilting it upwards towards him. Watching as Jounouchi grew more surprised, and strangely satisfied, Kaiba smirked to himself. With no hesitation he leaned down, closing his eyes, his lips landing perfectly against the blonde's.

He did not do this weakly, but with determination, his lips claiming their rightful spot. There was no disapproval from Katsuya, so he had no intention of letting go. Butterflies in his stomach, he ignored them the best he could, concentrating on the soft lips against his own. Soon their tongues met, a more passionate greeting than expected.

Though he was not sure who had opened their mouth first, it didn't matter, because all his mind was concentrating on was what a sensation this was. It could not compare. To be honest, he had not expected much, having kissed already with Arisu, that fake ex-girlfriend of his. Their kisses had not tasted good. Their kisses had not felt this nice. Her tongue had not been as pleasurable as Jounouchi's.

This was different, and he was quite grateful that was the case. This was exiting. He did not want to run away. And like a drug, he was unable to pull away from its intoxicating nature, caressing Jounouchi's tongue with his own. A pace that began slow but quickened within seconds of exploring. Shivers of pleasure went down his spine, and they multiplied as hands began to firmly assault his back with touches to combine with the kiss. His own hands possessively pulled Jounouchi closer, holding with firmly around his waist, roaming underneath his shirt. How he had managed to get under there he did not know. Like most things at the moment, it had no value. His fingers pressed against the skin he'd come to love to caress. And his tongue hungrily kept on its dance with Jounouchi's.

Drawing back for air, their foreheads pressed against each other to temporarily rest, eyes opening now, waking to see the other one's ahead of them. Katsuya grinned, leaning forward again. Butterfly kisses teased the brunet's pale skin, tracing from the corner of his lips to his jaw. Softly. Eagerly. He was wanted, like he had never been before. In return he did the same, his light kisses trailing down to the other male's neck, giving him a clear view to steer the blond as he tried to guide them to the bed. Their mutual walk was clumsy, and too filled with passion that needed to be taken care of at this instant for them to move properly. Kaiba found that he didn't care, pushing the body of the blond down on the bed with great enjoyment. For a second he stood at the edge, watching Jounouchi waiting for him. A certain thought raced through his mind as his eyes observed the other man.

This was actually nice. Wonderful, even. Perhaps fantastic.

With a smirk he bent his knees and lowered himself over the other, feeling a happiness not experienced before. He didn't want to elaborate that he'd never feel it again without Jounouchi.

His hands roamed Jounouchi's front, as if curious, as if he had never explored it before. Lips locked with lips, and fingers made a mess of his perfectly combed hair as they pushed his face even closer, even if that seemed quite impossible. The hands then let go of his brown hair, trailing down to his waist, firmly caressing. His own hands did not, one elbow used to balance himself and the other hand freely running through blond hair. He'd never get sick of feeling it.

Weak moans mixed in the air, and he feared he might be taking it too far. His initial intention had just been a kiss.

Reluctantly he lifted his head, an unwilling panting soon followed after their lips had departed. Jounouchi panted as well, so he didn't care.

Brown eyes now stared up at him contently from where the blond rested, wearing a small smile that seemed permanent on his lips. Blue eyes stared down, watching the face of the other, observing the way he looked, taking in all forms, lines and skin into his memory, storing it away and saving the information. His free hand lazily pressed against Jounouchi's right side of his face, his own thumb gently drawing back and forth on his cheekbone while his other fingers did the same to his hair. Stroking caringly, though he'd rather die than admit doing so.

Leaning down his head, slowly this time, his lips made a small kiss on Jounouchi's warm ones, a final act of affection from his side. He lingered, and he knew why. But his head lifted, a serious look in his eyes as he looked down.

"I've reached a decision now, Jounouchi." Kaiba stated. Jounouchi chuckled to himself, finding the statement amusing as he grinned.

"Oh really?" Jounouchi asked sarcastically, his hands on the waist on man above him, pulling closer.

"Yes." Kaiba stated, his eyes staring down indifferently. His hand drew away from Jounouchi's face, using it to support his own weight instead. "And I choose to decline." He stated in the same tone, pulling away his body from the other. He left little room for an input, ignoring his own mental scolding concerning this decision. Soon he was on his feet, adjusting his clothing and dusting off imaginary dirt. Katsuya lay still in the bed, his body unnaturally stiff. A shocked and disbelieving look on his face before he finally reacted with words.

"…What?" He asked as if in a daze, his eyes turning towards the brunet as he brought himself up to sit. Kaiba stared coldly at the blond, as if nothing had ever happened.

"I said I decline. There'll be no relationship. That means in any form. I call off this friendship too. It was only a waste of time anyway." Kaiba rejected easily, fooling Jounouchi with a mask of non-committal indifference.

"You can't do that!" Katsuya protested, anger building inside him. He was quickly on his feet, glaring at the CEO with a murderous intent it seemed. "You can't just kiss me and walk away! That's not how it works!" He exclaimed in a way that seemed almost desperate to Kaiba.

"It is what it is. Get over it." The CEO stated. "I'd like you to leave now." The blond growled at the order given to him, his muscles tensing, which was visible to the brunet. What he did not expect was when Jounouchi's clenched fist went flying in the air, causing a hard impact on his cheek. The hit was not as hard as he knew Jounouchi could hit, but most certainly harder than any normal slap. His hand unconsciously went up to touch the abused skin, cool fingers soothing the temporary pain his face didn't allow to show.

"Asshole!" Katsuya exclaimed directly afterwards, glaring at the brunet who stared disbelievingly at him. Though he had understanding for the punch taking place, he hadn't actually thought there'd be one. "You think it's fun to mess with my head! Huh? Do you, moneybags!" Katsuya bellowed as he growled.

"Jounouchi, your behaviour is childish." Kaiba reprimanded, which only caused Katsuya to growl.

"Does it look like I give a shit?" He snarled as he glared angrily. The burnet didn't answer the question, perceiving it as rhetorical. So they stared, a hostile atmosphere choking him, disenabling him to escape. Stubbornness kept him there, not wanting to give in. Kaiba didn't know what to say, and Jounouchi didn't know where to begin.

"Give me a reason." Katsuya finally demanded with folded arms. A brown eyebrow was raised.

"What?"

"A reason, you idiot. Why you don't want to be with me. I mean, not wanting to sound like an egomaniac, but dammit, you kissed me and you have feelings for me! What the fuck is the problem!"

"What isn't the problem?" Kaiba bit back. "Have you even given this possible relationship a realistic thought? It wouldn't work!"

"How the hell would you know!" Jounouchi challenged.

"Logic, moron." Seto easily replied, snorting afterwards.

"Who said we can't make it work!"

"Love is weak, Jounouchi. It's a mistake to cross paths with it." Kaiba spoke calmly, as if to assure himself the words were true.

"Gah! You drive me crazy! You know, I have no idea why the fuck I wanted to be with you in the first place!" The blond exclaimed, frowning as he folded his arms and sulked by himself.

"Then it should be no problem for you to leave." The brunet stated, a strange distant look on his face, hiding the fact that he had been insulted.

"Yes, it is a problem. Because you don't want me to." Katsuya said, a smirk gracing his lips for a second, as if he had a catch on the other.

"Whatever gave you that idea?" He asked coldly. "I never said I liked you in any way." Instead of growing angry, like he thought the blond would, Katsuya snorted.

"You're trying that old excuse again? 'Oh look at me, I'm a CEO! I have no feelings! But I still go around and kiss people, and spend time with them, and-'" Jounouchi mimicked and taunted, liking it too much according to the brunet. He was cut off however.

"I think you've made your point." Kaiba stated sharply, glaring at the blond for not believing in his lies.

"Good. Now could you tell me why the hell you suddenly just want to throw everything away like the jerk you are?" Jounouchi asked angrily, though trying not to lose control.

"I just find it fruitless." The brunet shrugged off, suddenly feeling very cornered.

"Bullshit!" Jounouchi snapped, but Kaiba remained his calm, a face looking bored as his mask. "Tell me truth!"

"What makes you think I'm lying?"

"Because that's a stupid reason,-" Jounouchi explained smirking. "and also, I can tell that you are." He explained, a smug look on him. They stared at one another for a few silent seconds, both wanting the upper hand.

"That doesn't change a thing. I still want you gone." Kaiba said truthfully, for this could not go on. His eyes pierced through Jounouchi. The blond seemed taken aback by the statement, looking disbelievingly at the other for a moment. Perhaps he saw the sincerity in it, for deep inside, Kaiba wished to be rid of this all. To get away from Jounouchi and this mess his heart had created. Never mind he had a strong wanting for Jounouchi to stay as well.

"Yeah…" Katsuya said with a dejected smile. "I guess you really do." A heavy sigh was heard as he ran a hand through his hair. As if his knees were weak, Jounouchi seated himself on the edge of the bed, elbows on his legs and hands supporting the weight of his head. Blue eyes observed, not quite understanding this behaviour. Minutes ago Jounouchi looked ready to punch him, and he had. Now…now he simply sat there, looking as defeated and weak as a true loser. And he did not feel pity, and he did not feel sympathy. But he connected, for he felt the same way right this moment. Though he did have a knack for hiding things better than the blond.

With a sigh of defeat, he proceeded to sit down beside the other, not sensing any harm in it.

"It's not the end of the world, Jounouchi." He reminded, his eyes staring straight ahead of him, as if he was ignoring the blond. Jounouchi didn't look at him either though, eyes on the floor.

"Yeah, I know." He answered in a dull voice. Kaiba was not satisfied with hearing it.

"It's better this way." He offered another reason, but the other man didn't seem to care that much of this one either.

"Maybe."

"It wouldn't work out, I have too many responsibilities to take care of firsthand." Yet another one. Katsuya was still unaffected.

"I know."

"Then why does it matter?"

"I still wanted to give it a shot." He replied truthfully, brown eyes now turning to look at the brunet. Simultaneously Kaiba did the same, his eyes meeting the other's. A moment of shared pain in the quiet of the room took place.

"I can't, Jounouchi." He defended quietly in a solemn manner. The excuse was weak, but it was the truth. He couldn't. He was unable to agree to a relationship that would forever wound his pride. He had come too far in life to let something as petty as love interfere. Sombre brown eyes stared at him, taking in the words, giving the CEO a small nod, understanding. Their gaze broke, Jounouchi now focusing on something else. Soon enough, it changed.

A grin was now on Jounouchi's face, a fake one indeed. The blond slapped the back of the stiff CEO in a friendly manner as he chuckled. Trying to, anyway. A way to rid of the tense atmosphere.

"It's alright, Kaiba! Look at you, being all dark and moody! Cheer up!" Somehow, seeing Jounouchi put up a front like this, hurt him. And he wished to just reach out and touch him. "Don't you worry about me, I'll do great on my own." He assured, still wearing that affected grin, talking in that voice that told him nothing was fine. Kaiba looked at him for some time, already feeling he was missing him. So pathetic was he, this could only be a wise decision.

"I don't doubt you will." The brunet revealed with indifference in both tone and face. Only because he was never good at showing his feelings.

"Ah, Kaiba, you're getting emotional now!" Jounouchi teased. "I guess I'm a bad influence for you, huh?"

"Yes. That you most certainly are." The CEO agreed, a small smirk on his lips. Katsuya smiled back, truly this time, before getting up on his feet.

"Well, I better get going. It's kind of late and all." He informed with his face turned backwards towards Kaiba, who had now risen from the bed as well. "Take care, Kaiba." The blond bid his farewell, sincere care in his eyes. The brunet watched as if helpless, feeling everything slipping away from him like sand between his fingers. His mouth opened, an action he wasn't convinced was so smart to do.

"Stay." He found himself demanding, his eyes fixated on the body that was leaving him. Jounouchi instantly came to a halt, turning himself and staring at the brunet, confusion written all over him.

"W-what?"

"Stay with me. For the night." Kaiba offered. But it didn't seem to ease the big question mark that Jounouchi was. "That's all I can give you."

And Jounouchi just looked at him with an unreadable expression that made him self-conscious. He hated him for having that power over him.

He had called out and practically shouted out his yearning for the here by doing this, wanting his presence if only for another night. But he couldn't deny it. If he was going to live without Jounouchi for the rest of his life, what difference would this day do?

"Well?" He asked, growing impatient. Jounouchi looked uneasily around himself before hesitantly walking closer into the room again. Soon they were face to face, eye contact never breaking. It was hard to look at Jounouchi, because he had yet to agree. Maybe he just came back to hit him.

"I swear Kaiba, make me angry again, and I'll kick your scrawny ass over to America." Jounouchi threatened with a weak glare. Kaiba smirked appreciatively.

"Noted."

"So what is this then?" The blond asked, referring to his offer.

"Nothing." Kaiba answered. Jounouchi raised an eyebrow.

"Nothing?" Jounouchi mimicked disbelievingly.

"Yes, nothing for a night. Then it's over." He stated with finality in his voice. Both stared quite some time, having to let the words sink in. His companion soon found his voice again, and his normal attitude.

"Way to go. You're the most overdramatic person I know." Katsuya stated, rolling his eyes.

"Besides yourself?" Kaiba taunted, behaving as usual. For now the night would not be tainted with longing.

"Ha ha. So funny." He taunted right back, causing them both to smirk at one another. Feeling the sense of old behaviour rising through, his hand went up, only to rest against Jounouchi's cheek. Brown eyes closed, relaxed. Jounouchi's hand was then brought up to hold Kaiba's, and he loved feeling it against his own.

"So you're mine tonight?" He mumbled, lazily opening his eyes.

"That's one way of looking at it." Kaiba said, not keen on using the term the blond had. He slightly frowned, not wanting to be seen as a possession. The frown turned into a surprised look though, as he felt the blond slowly embrace him, their chests lightly pressed. Two strong arms around him.

He could feel Katsuya's heart beat as well as his own.

After a momentary hesitation, he lifted his arms and encircled the blond in a secure hold, his face buried in the blond mop of hair he'd never smell again. It wasn't even the right scent. It was his own, for it was his shampoo Katsuya had used this morning. And the brunet would miss how he truly smelled. Apple suited the other so much better. Grief was already in his system.

They lingered, as it was only natural. Neither had a desire to let go, perfectly fine in their shared hold that contained a mutual bond Kaiba was sure he'd never find again. Fingertips soothed their bodies, trailing the skin as if it held more mysteries than anything else. No one else could make him feel this way, and he didn't even want for anyone else to hold that ability. Only Jounouchi. It'd always be him.

"So this is it, huh?" The low voice Jounouchi had asked, the side of his face resting against Kaiba's chest.

"Yes." Kaiba answered, his tone grave.

"Well, if it means anything -" The blond started, speaking so close to the CEO's skin his lips brushed against it. "I won't be angry with you." He murmured. "It'd just be a waste of time anyway." He declared, smiling. Kaiba's blank stare didn't change, no emotion flowing through. His only response was to hold the other a little bit tighter.

He had no regrets. Not any major ones, at least. He would be free soon, and he'd deal with it. He'd find a way. All the same, he did get to have Jounouchi, if even for a night. Thus proving that Kaiba always gets what he wants, even if it doesn't last forever. His pride would be saved now. Jounouchi would not even be happy with him, for he had a completely different lifestyle than he. They'd clash too severely. He'd be too possessive of the blond as well, he was sure.

Soon enough both of them had crawled into bed, as it was much easier to lay beside one another instead of standing. On their side, facing one another, Kaiba continued to stroke Jounouchi in a caring manner. Tired lips currently created lingering kisses on his neck and face, slowly moving towards his mouth. Deciding it was not a good position, Jounouchi brought up his body, straddling the brunet, continuing the flow of kisses that promised nothing but pure care. And when their lips met, Kaiba engaged in the activity, making it slow and tender. For that was how they had come together. Pure passion was not what made them stay together all this time. It was that they grew to like one another, taking their time to learn more about each other, that made them care so genuinely.

Jounouchi was the one to break the kiss, staring down with a saddened expression.

"I don't want to let you go." He shamelessly admitted. The statement slightly alarmed Kaiba, but he did not let it show.

"You have to." He replied calmly.

"Why? It's all so stupid." He shared his thought easily, a distant expression on his face.

"Jounouchi, I just can't do this anymore." Kaiba admitted, trying to sound cold, but it did not work as planned. His hand went up to the cheek of the man above him, resting there. "I can't." He said, as if to let the words sink in. Jounouchi stared down at him for several speechless seconds. They were nerve wrecking. Then, he sighed, a small saddened smile on his lips.

"You're lucky I'm a nice guy. If I wasn't, I'd stalk you and force you to be with me." He joked, his way of accepting how everything would be played out. Seto nodded, pulling Jounouchi's face closer, sharing yet another intimate moment he knew he'd never forget.

And as the night went on, and as their minutes ticked away, sleep eventually took over them, refusing to let them have any more.

XxxX

His eyes stared blankly at the sleeping body who still wore the same clothes as the night before. Neither had bothered to change as they went to bed, too interested in being close to separate. His silent contemplations stayed inside his head as his hand slowly caressed the warm cheek of Jounouchi, yearning already evident in his eyes. Love would be hard to recover from, he acknowledged.

Deciding not to waste any time, he slowly lifted the blond, making sure to not wake him. He did not want to have him conscious. It'd make things unnecessarily troublesome for him. For both of them. He was grateful the other man was a heavy sleeper.

With slow steps he walked down the stairs with the man resting peacefully in his arms, oblivious to the world. Heading for the living room, the CEO gently put Jounouchi down on a sofa, still utterly transfixed with watching him. Mesmerized because he knew there'd be no other opportunity to do this again.

The snores of peaceful sleep were heard, and Kaiba quietly sat down beside him, his hand once again caressing what he should now ignore. His forbidden fruit, he'd never forget him.

"Jounouchi, I-" He started weakly. Why he didn't know. He knew the other did not listen and could not listen. But he knew Jounouchi wanted an explanation from him. This was the only way.

"This was never right, Jounouchi." He now began. "My priorities have faltered. I can't let myself need you. It's weak to need." He declared, his fingers caressing in a soothing motion, touching the soft hair. With time, and development of a deeper relationship, he was positive there could come a day where he'd need the blond. That was to never happen.

"I never intended for this relationship to last. And it's best to end it here, while your feelings haven't grown as strong as mine." Another saddened stroke, but he did not want to stop.

He knew deep inside from the start that they could never be. Yet he pursued a relationship, if only to still his cravings to be close. Juvenile and weak, he was a disgrace.

All his life had ever been about, was about even now, was one person. And one person only. Mokuba. And lately, he had compromised his brother's role, just to be with the blond. There could never be a balance in which his relationship with his brother would be undisturbed from that he would have with Jounouchi. Simultaneously, he pushed his brother away, refusing to talk about these emotions that controlled him so greatly, and that concerned his brother.

Both of them had ignored those they needed for each other. For Kaiba it had been his brother. And for Jounouchi it was his friends. Unnecessary sacrifices for a person you don't even need.

And Kaiba never stayed with those he doesn't need. They were a waste of time. And he wouldn't neglect his brother ever again for a person he didn't need. Never.

His life had always been dedicated to him. To always be there for him meant he couldn't be there for someone else as well, as their interests could conflict. Choosing Mokuba over Jounouchi was something he'd never regret. He knew that was true.

And so it would end here, for he was too much of a fool to end it earlier.

His hands went to his pocket, picking up a cell phone. Reaching his security staff almost instantly, he ordered them to take home the man that was asleep on his couch in the living room. The man on the phone said they were on their way. And the phone call ended.

His eyes lingered on the blond again, but he did not touch, and he would not kiss. Not now. And not ever again.

They had been to young for this. At least, the CEO had. Such strong feelings in this age, it was not normal nor good. Deep inside, he knew he had been prepared to spend his life with Jounouchi. But he couldn't force that upon the blond. It was better for Jounouchi this way, to leave him while it was just a crush and he could easily get over him. Kaiba knew he himself was a lost cause, but it didn't matter.

Rising up, he prepared to leave and to pick up his brother from Yuugi's. And when he'd get back, there would be no Jounouchi ever again. His eyes remained emotionless as he thought this, knowing this sacrifice was for the greater good. If not for his brother, then for himself. For his sanity and pride and self-respect. Because he would have none if he'd be with Jounouchi.

Spending so much time with Jounouchi had to be one of his biggest mistakes ever, as it had sucked him in so quickly and forcefully in a vicious circle, making him unable to find a will to desert him. Sadly enough, Jounouchi was a mistake he'd do all over again, knowing it'd end up here anyway. Hmpf. Pathetic, really. But true, nonetheless.

But so, this was the end of his worthless feelings' reign. Logic and common sense were now back, and he'd never do the same mistake twice. He wouldn't let those kind of feelings control him anymore.

He had failed Mokuba in allowing himself this weakness. And there was no greater horror than to fail his him. To succumb to his weak side. To lose what he had tried so hard to build. Jounouchi would never be allowed to destroy that, nor take it away from him. What does he need love for, when solitude fits like a glove?

But Jounouchi had made him see. He had made him see in a way he hadn't before. And sometimes, it made the world not appear as bad as he knew it was. And he'd take comfort that not everyone was out to get him, even if he had showed his weak sides to them.

"Thank you…" He whispered, his eyes watching the sleeping man almost tenderly now, unable to seal away his inner feelings. But the affection vanished almost as quickly as it came, and he exited his mansion in a haste yet dignified manner, wanting to get away as quickly as possible.

Mokuba was all he lived for. And he would keep it that way.

And perhaps he'd always love Jounouchi, haunted by bittersweet memories. His love that had no logic, for he still could not figure out why he had grown to love him. But at least he was strong now. He had refused him, even when his desire was practically given to him.

So, in the end, it was not love that saved him, but pride.

---

The End

Words: 27 088
Do you know how many pages of crap you guys have read? It's around 400 pages for crying out loud. God, and I was the one who wrote it all... -shakes head and mourn my fingers-

So...how many of you guys want to have me killed right now, eh? -sees practically everyone raising their hand, looking at random weapons while contemplating- Whoa! Calm down people! Let me explain!

Alright. So you're all pretty mad at me, right? I mean, I think I just did the two big no-no's. I didn't make it a lemon (hell, there wasn't even mentionings of sex! I am cruel) and I made it a sad ending (though I tried to make it a tiny bit positive, with him having the upperhand in his life again and all). I expect a lot of people cursing me and/or threatening to kill me in their reivews now. It's okay. I am mentally prepared. :P

So why did I write this useless story if I never even planned for them to get together, some may ask. And yes, I never planned for them to have a happy ending. Has anyone ever read the title? "Unheard Love"? Come on people! Titles have meanings. So far, only one person guessed it to be a sad ending. But it doesn't matter now. The point is...erm...I think I forgot my point.

Well, my English teacher always bugs me with saying that every story is usually written to show how a character evolves, or learns to make a vital decision. And that is what I wanted to portray. I wanted to show how Kaiba learns to let someone in, to love, but in the end, he gives it all up for his pride and love for Mokuba. For he feels he's letting his brother down if he keeps this up with Jounouchi.

There will be no sequal since I feel it'd only destroy the main story. And all love stories don't end happily, and I just wanted to show that. It was also a key in my final chapter to not have Jounouchi love Kaiba, just be in love with him. In real life, our feelings often varies and may not be on the same stage in development as someone else's, and I wanted to show it here. Plus, I love a sad ending. I also love angst. And I love angst even more when people don't go making the characters cry/cut themselves/take suicide. It's getting old. So I wanted to do it in another way that I thought fitted Kaiba better (because I can hardly see him cry, cut nor take suicide. Same goes for Jou). I hope I did alright. :S

I know there's been a topic I forgot to adress in the earlier chapters (that's right people, a little reminiscensing coming your way here!), and that is: Why did it take such a damn long time for Kaiba to understand that Jou liked him? Well, have you guys ever seen the show? How much proof does a guy need to believe in magic! Seriously. He's in Egypt, seeing visions of his past life, and thinking he's hallucinating -.-' It's safe to assume he's not brightest in the bunch WHEN he has decided on something. Since he decided Jounouchi would never love him, he had a heard time getting it through his head. So there. :P Since I thought this was a given, I assumed everyone to know. My fault. Sorry.

Moving onto this chapter. Some of you may find my excessive usage of Kaiba being in too much of a shock to actually do anything (to put it simply) OOC and annoying. Well, I have my reasonings for this too. Once again, in the show, when he is surprised, he looks stunned and stares in awe for a while before reacting with some masterplan. That's why. So it's not out of character (other traits I have written might be though).

Now, I'd like to take my time thanking everyone who has reviewed me. When I started this "journey", I guess you could say, I had little confidence in writing. But all of your supportive words made me gain some sort of confidence, and enabled me to write. People have never really been interested in what I can produce, and finding those who has was quite shocking, actually. You've made me feel happy (as corny as it sounds, but it's too true to deny). And with your constructive critisiscm I have also been able to grow as an author! Look at the difference between my earlier chapters and these! Major difference in my eyes. So I thank you all, I really do. You have all been appreciated.

Thank you for your time. I am grateful, even if it's hard to show it through the screen.

As for future stories, I am definitely up for them. Since Seto x Jou is my absolute favourite in this fandom, I find it safe to assume I will write about them in the future. But I also want to a few one-shots with other main characters. Gah, why am I planning? It's all up to school and my family to decide whether or not I will be given the actual time to write... But I'm hoping everything'll turn out for my benefit!

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Time to review. Speak your mind, even if it's just to flame me. Come on, if you hate this story yet read this far, you must have a lot of pent up anger inside. As for constructive critisiscm, I will gladly take it, otherwise I can't grow. Opinions, both good and bad, are highly valued as well.