A/N: Hello readers, back with the next installment. Thank you to everyone who read and reviewed the previous chapter.

Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh!

Chapter 16

Being able to watch as Tea opened her eyes for the first time in four days brought so much relief for Atem to even hold. After reassuring her that she would be okay, he went in search of the doctor. Atem had to find a way to calm down his rapid, excited heart. Which lead him to the hospital entrance way. He stood outside, but kept himself near the doors as the rain continued to fall from the sky. He took a long, pleasant breath, inhaling the fresh scent of the water. Allowing him to release all of the stress and anxiety he was feeling for a while now.

He was thinking of giving the others a call, but decided that after a long day of worrying over where he was today, he gave them all a good chance to rest for the night. Atem would give them all the great news in the morning. He wanted to have some time with Tea alone before everyone saw her anyway. He smiled just thinking of how surprised and happy they'll be once the news has been given.

Smiling...that was something Atem did not do in days. It felt great to have a reason to. The little smiles he did have were only shown for the others - to make them not worry about him more than it was needed to be - when truthfully on the inside, he felt so broken that words could not describe the kind of pain inflicted on his heart. Now that Tea was awake, Atem knew that it was not safe to let his guard down. He also had so many unresolved emotions bottling up inside. However, he was not going to allow that to become noticeable to Tea.

The thunder snapped him out of his thoughts and figured it would be best to check back with the doctor. Atem needed to be back with Tea, to hold her and protect her like he usually does whenever there was a thunderstorm.

Protect her...Something he was not able to do in time when Vivian attacked and drugged Tea. Yes, he succeeded in getting the truth out of her, but it did not change the way Tea looked when she slipped into unconsciousness that night. That was something he would never be able to erase from his mind. The fear Atem felt when he thought he would lose her forever.

Closing his eyes, Atem took in the fresh scent of the now drizzling rain again. With the wind also blowing in a light, gentle breeze, he could feel a few drops kissing his face. As if they were tiny, little water fairies comforting him and giving him a sense of peace for the first time in days.

Atem was so looking forward to going back to Tea, but he knew that the doctor was giving her a thorough examination. He wanted to be sure that Tea was more than one hundred percent at her strongest. He was so anxious to take her out of this hospital and back to their home; into the comfort of their bed, but it was just too soon.

It was only a few days, but having Tea here in the hospital - not being able to hold her the way he wanted - felt like months and months of separation they were forced to go under. The rain, however, has worked to keep him a little calmer. Because it was raining like this...when he met Tea. The day that changed his life for the better greatly.

After spending close to twenty minutes outside, Atem decided to go ahead and check back with the doctor. And...to finally have a chance to hear more of Tea's sweet, loving voice. The automatic doors flew open as he stepped onto the entrance pad.

Suddenly, as he was walking inside, the night when Atem brought Tea here came rushing through his head. Why? Why now? She woken up and on her way to a quick recovery. So, why did that night have to come crawling back into his thoughts?

He really couldn't forget how her eyes turned from her natural sparkle to a lifeless, dull shade of sapphire. Nothing else had ever made him this scared. Not even when both of his parents departed from the world. Most of his emotions were locked away during that hard time. Since he met Tea, his emotions were blooming again as the days went by. He smiled more, loved more, he wasn't always into his work and discovered new experiences of the world around him.

Atem needed something to take his mind into a different direction. While he was on his way the elevator, his eyes caught site of the hospital's gift shop. Maybe there was something inside that would be special enough for Tea to light up to. He smiled and walked inside to find the perfect gift to take up to her.

It was only a few minutes since her eyes opened, but Tea felt like she had been staring at this very bright ceiling for decades. How long has it been since she arrived here? How did she even get here? Everything around her seemed fuzzy and she could barely move any part of her body. After Atem left, she lost the strength in her arms.

She did not want her Atem to leave the room, but it was necessary for the doctor to examine her.

But why? What was wrong with her? She still needed to figure out her reason for being here in the hospital.

Tea heard the doctor speaking to her - though only a few of her words have successfully made contact to her brain. She was saying something about how impressed she was at her remarkable recovery. Recovery from what? She needed answers and so far, this doctor was the only one who could give them to her.

Hearing the door open again, Tea turned in hopes of seeing Atem walk through again. She was disappointed when a nurse came inside to talk with her doctor. About her condition, no doubt. While they both went into discussion, Tea took this time to try and think back to the last thing she's done before waking up to her husband's crying plea for her to be all right. Which was another thing that was still fresh in her mind.

Tea could not grasp onto it right away, but in her unconscious state, she had felt the sorrow coming from Atem. She heard his voice, urging her to wake up. How he would stay with her for however long it took to see her eyes open again.

She had to do anything necessary to get herself back to Atem and her family, but it was like trying to break through the most thickest sheet of glass ever created. It was difficult in the beginning, seeing as she felt herself being pulled away. In the back of her mind, Tea was begging to whatever it was pulling her to leave her alone. She wasn't sure which way she needed to go. Though, she did have one helpful source that would guide her into the right direction; the connection she shared with Atem. Wherever he was, that is where she needed to be.

She was starting to feel lightheaded. She couldn't think anymore as the first signs of illness began to creep into her system. Her breathing became erratic and she broke into a cold sweat. The heart monitor was beeping continuously, which meant her heart rate was speeding up. It was pounding so hard against her chest. What's wrong with me?

Her name was being called. Tea slowly turned her eyes towards the doctor who was speaking to her, but none of her words were being registered into her mind. The only sounds she could hear was the machines that she was hooked up to. The machines that monitored her entire body. The nurse assisted the doctor in getting her calmed down again.

Her eye caught something being pulled out from the nurse as the doctor was busy calling out to her. Whatever it was, Tea knew she did not want it anywhere near her. Why was she feeling this way? She never experienced this before when being in the hospital. She knew the doctors and nurses were only helping her to get well again. What was so different about it this time? She was scared. The object in the nurse's hand was frightening her.

Once Tea was able to actually see what it was, she became as pale as a ghost; paler even. She felt like a deer caught in the headlights. And what she had been trying to remember, a fragment of it suddenly came back to her.

"Just what do you plan on doing with that thing?"

"Isn't it obvious? I am going to put this cute, little needle into your arm and shoot the substance into your body. Don't worry...it's just something that will make you sleep for a while. A long while."

Tea went completely frantic. "No...no, keep it away! Keep it away!"

Sighing seemed to be the only thing Atem was doing since Tea awakened, but he wasn't complaining. He felt incredibly elevated in total happiness. If anyone ever said that that was impossible, then he would automatically use himself as an example.

Leaving the gift shop was a little longer than Atem had expected, but he wanted to find the perfect item for Tea. Something that would bring back the beautiful color to those glorious cheeks. Yes, he was referring the incredible way her blush would appear whenever he said or does something sweet for her. If Atem could create a list of all of his favorite things about Tea, it would become the longest novel in the history of novels. Because to him, she was a never-ending story that he wants to read over and over again.

Coming straight to the elevators, Atem found people already waiting for the next set of doors to open. He was impatient with this waiting, since he wanted to hurry and get back to Tea. However, as he stood here...something felt wrong to him. Why? How could something be wrong after finding out that his wife reawakened from her long, unconscious state?

Now, he was very anxious to get back to Tea's room. Although, that was easier said than done. Damn it, what is taking these doors so long to open? These people may be willing to wait, but for Atem, he refused. Looking around, he found the set of stairs that led to the upper floors. Taking two steps at a time made him reach the fifth floor in record time. Without even breaking a sweat. Hell, Atem was filled with so much adrenaline, that he didn't need to break a sweat.

His first thought in mind was if Tea was okay. Surely, she was, right? He didn't leave the room for very long. But for some reason...he just couldn't settle with the thought. Something was wrong...very wrong.

As soon as he reached the top, Atem heard a distant scream reaching his ears. It was clear enough for him to know that it came from Tea. Why was she screaming? What were they doing to her? Now wasn't the time to stand and wonder. She needed him and he would find out exactly what was happening when he reached her.

When he rushed inside the room, his eyes widened to the sight of Tea sobbing and curled up in a fetal position. The heart monitor was beeping out of control and both doctor and nurse were trying their hardest to calm her down. But what made Tea set off this way? Just what made her so upset?

"Please!" She began to shout through her cries. "Keep it away from me!"

He was making his way inside the room, but he was suddenly stopped by the nurse telling him that he needed to stay out of the room.

His wife was going through a state of hysterics and this nurse was telling him to stay out? No fucking way. Atem had every right to be next to Tea. He has waited long enough. No one was going to keep her away from him.

He pushed past her and headed towards Tea. Just getting near her was like trying to break through a brick wall that kept the most precious possession known to man. He needed to find a way to calm her. Because glancing at the monitors, her pressure and heart rate were rocketing sky high. And at that moment, he was worried that something terrible would happen to her again. He was close to losing Tea once...there was no way in hell that he was going let that cycle repeat again. She was his life...his everything.

Atem gently pulled Tea to him, but she tried to struggle away from his grasp. Apparently, she was thinking someone was trying to keep her still and attempted to keep herself away from whatever was frightening her. She needed to know that she was safe - that he would protect her. "Tea...it's okay now. Calm down," he assured her.

As soon as his voice rang into her hearing, Tea immediately stopped struggling only to fall into Atem's arms. She buried herself as much as possible, trying to escape from anything outside of his warmth. She clung to him like he was her last and only lifeline.

Just by looking at her, Atem knew that Tea would not be very talkative with him right now. She was just too distressed. But, he was relieved to hear the beeping from the monitors were slowing down and returning to normal - clearly indicating that she was calming down. And as long as he kept holding her, she would stay that way.

"How is she?" he asked, not bothering to glance at the doctor.

"Well..." she started. "It appears that your wife's condition is progressing miraculously, but she still needs close observation."

That was good enough for him. But, when Atem left the room for the doctor to examine Tea, she was not so erratically upset this way. And he wanted, so badly, to find out the reason as to why Tea was crying. She continued to mutter. Some words were hard to understand, but he was able to catch a few of them.

Atem wanted privacy. So, he kindly - and calmly - asked for both doctor and nurse to leave the room.

Now, they were finally alone. Atem continued to soothe Tea with his gentle touches and comforting words. He couldn't remember just how much time had passed, but it did not matter to him. Time was not a factor to him at the moment.

"I'm sorry...I don't know what came over me," she replied in a quiet tone.

He felt Tea beginning to pull away a little, already missing her warmth. However, he kept her close enough so she'd know that he was not leaving her side. Something had upset her terribly and she was apologizing? That was Tea for you. Always thinking of everything and everyone before her own needs. To Atem, it was a blessing to Tea...but also a curse to her as well.

He placed his hand within the locks of her hair, feeling her silky strands running through his fingers. "Love, do not apologize for becoming upset. Don't ever feel sorry for being scared or anything that causes you to cry. That is why I'm here...to comfort you. Tell me what happened when I had left," he said with such intensity and emotion in his voice.

When Tea got a lock on Atem's eyes, she just could not look away. She could feel every ounce of his feelings rushing through her soul. His heart, his spirit...his entire being barricaded her through their connection and she almost allowed herself to cry again. Just what has this wonderful man been tortured through while she was unconscious? The one emotion that she did know about was his sadness. And that was when she was reawakened by his soft, trembling cries.

But how could she tell him? Should she even tell him? He was facing with troubles of his own and most of them were from worrying about her. She could only imagine just how much of this was affecting him. And thinking about it caused another round of tears to develop. Which she was trying to hardest to hold back.

With much difficulty, Tea was able to turn her eyes away to toy with a loose strand on the blanket. "They were only trying to help me. They didn't know that I would react this way, but...I suddenly felt so afraid. I was trying to think back to what happened last before I'd ended up here. Only bits and pieces were coming together. But then, I guess it was when I'd started to panic for some reason. The nurse was pulling out something that would...help me, but I only wanted it to be kept away from me."

"What did she pull out?"

"...A syringe," Tea replied in a hushed tone. The warmth that she felt from Atem had suddenly went away. He turned to sit on the edge on her bed with his back turned to her. She watched as his muscles were beginning to tense incredibly. Tea did not have to see Atem's expression to know that he was extremely angry. Using the little amount of her strength, Tea struggled forward to lean against his back. "It's okay now...you don't have to worry, Atem."

"How can you say that to me, Tea?" He rose up from the bed and walked over near the window. The sky was still pouring out rain, with no signs of it letting up any time soon. He rested his arm along the glass, leaning his face forward to hide his eyes. "That's all I've been doing since that night. Do you really think that I can suddenly stop...even now?" he asked, waiting for her answer.

Tea was silent. Just hearing the sound in Atem's voice clearly indicated just how much he was trying to hold back. Even when she leaned into him, his body was begging for relaxation. She hated this. She wished none of this ever happened. Why couldn't her family be left alone? Why did some outside party have to try and ruin their life? And this brought Tea to think about that night.

Only she knew of the identity of the one who invaded her home. How would Atem react when he finds out that it was Vivian who drugged her? Was she intentionally trying to kill her? Because right there and then, she felt the life escape from her her rapidly. Vivian was conniving and sneaky when she wanted to be, but surely she wasn't cruel enough to do this, was she?

She slowly brought up the blanket, missing the warmth that she was receiving from her husband. She silently wished that he would come back. Maybe it would be much easier to explain everything if he was next to her.

"I know what you're thinking...and you don't have to say anything."

Tea was startled from her thoughts when Atem began to speak again. He knew what she was thinking? What exactly did he mean by that? Clearly...clearly he was not referring to the break-in...was he? She watched as Atem returned back to her side, feeling both relieved and confused.

Atem took her silence as a sign to continue. "Every minute that you've been here, Tea, my mind has been racking to figure out who was responsible for hurting you. It was taking so much for me NOT to go insane. Seeing you lying in this bed while that bastard was out running free...I couldn't allow it to happen." Tea took this time to speak, but Atem softly placed a finger to her lips. "I've already figured out who did this. There's no need for you to go into an explanation that you cannot handle now."

"So...you know that it was Vivian?" Tea asked, gently reaching up to grasp Atem's hand again. "How did you find out? She made it impossible for her identity to be revealed under those dark clothing."

"Well, I didn't find out right away," he watched as Tea traced little patterns along his hand. "But when I did, everything just started coming into place. Starting with this necklace here." He reached into his pocket to pull out the medallion that he found. "This belongs to Vivian. I know this because I had remembered seeing it on her. She actually thought that she'd get away with this. The only thing she had managed to succeed...was digging herself deeper into her lies. And even then, she still denied it." Atem clenched the medallion into his fist, still remembering the argument that took place earlier.

Tea just did not know what to think. She couldn't believe the drastic measures that Vivian would commit just to get next to Atem again. It angered her, but it also frightened her as well. Because if she was able to put her in a hospital - to actually try and take her life away - who knows what other thoughts were parading around inside her mind.

Just taking all of this in was making Tea go through another dizzy spell, but she was not ready rest yet. She needed more answers to what had occurred during her time here. Unfortunately, due to Atem's ability to read her, she was not able to utter out the question.

Instead, she felt Atem pushing her down gently, keeping her from making any more movements. "Lay still...you still need to gain your strength back." She was about to protest, but Atem would not hear of it. "Shh...no more talking. Especially, not about Vivian. Do you know how close I've came to losing you? Tea, that is the most terrifying feeling I'd never want to experience again. And talking about Vivian is not making it any better."

"But," she began to reply, "you will tell me everything, right?"

Atem did not make any attempts to answer her question for two reasons. One, he just didn't want her knowing about the confrontation with Vivian. How would she react to the fact that he tried to kill her? Would she even look at him the same way? He was afraid that she wouldn't. To think that the love of his life would be completely cautious around him. The very thought just refused to sit well with him. The other reason was because the nurse from earlier had returned. Her face showed signs of guilt.

"Um...I don't mean to interrupt, but I wanted to apologize for giving Mrs. Mutou such a scare. It was not my intention," she said timidly.

Smiling from the generous apology, Tea smiled and showed no hard feelings towards the nurse. After all, she was just doing her job. She should not be at fault for trying to help her get well. "It's okay, I just didn't know what was happening or even where I was to be exact."

"Well, I still feel completely terrible. If you are ready, I want to try and give you a sedative to make you rest easily. But, if you're still uncomfortable about it -,"

"No," Tea stopped her by cutting in. She also looked to Atem, still seeing bit of fear in the depths of his eyes. She needed to let him know that she is still here; still alive. "Whatever you have to do...I'll comply with it. Although, I am not going to be able to watch."

"Oh, do not worry, you won't feel a thing. I'll be finished and out of here in only a few seconds," she reassured her.

And it was true. Even as Tea kept her head turned - holding onto Atem's hand for support while taking deep breaths - the nurse completed her task and was already moving along to her next patient.

Once again, they were left alone. Atem began to stroke Tea's hair, knowing that she felt much comfort whenever he did that for her. "How are you feeling?"

"Well, I'm not in any pain...just very tired," Tea said as she tried to stifle a yawn. "But I don't want to sleep yet. Try to keep me awake, there is so much I need to know. How is everyone doing? Yuki and Kimika...are they here? Are they okay?"

Atem chuckled at the many questions that Tea was spilling out. Of course she would be curious as to how the others were holding up. "My love, I will be happy to answer any question you have, but one at a time, alright? Everyone is fine and they will feel even better once I tell them how you're doing. The kids are at home. Yugi is watching them with Tristan and Joey."

"They must have been so scared, huh? This is the longest I've ever been away from them," Tea commented.

"It's been hard on them. I had to explain it as easy as possible so the kids would understand. Believe it or not, this is the first night since you've been here that they have slept in their own beds." Atem continued to caress Tea's hair, but he was thinking back to his last conversation with Yuki. Each and everyday, his son was turning out exactly like him. He was proud, yes, but emotional wise, Atem was very concerned.

He doesn't want Yuki to ever be afraid of letting out his emotions. He was just a kid. And that is what Atem wanted Yuki to concentrate on being.

"You mean you haven't been home?" Tea asked in disbelief.

"I have...and that was when Katie convinced me to go. She could tell that I haven't been getting any proper rest in days. I just had to keep myself distracted. So, when I'm not here, I am either at the office or someplace quiet. Like at our lake. Tea, being in that house is not the same without you there. It's not home. And I cannot call it home until you are there."

Tea didn't realize or even feel the tears streaming from her eyes until Atem used his thumb to gently wipe them away. This man next to her...this incredibly, sweet, lovable man that she would do absolutely anything for...he has, yet again, reminded her of how much she truly loves him. Not that she needed a reminder, but just knowing and feeling the compassion, the gentleness, the complete security and protective nature that radiates from Atem makes her so happy that they're together.

She took his hand, placing light kisses onto his palm, "You know? You can be so stupid sometimes...it makes me so angry," she said in a soft tone.

"Are you angry at me now?" Atem asked as he came closer to land little kisses to Tea's cheek. Smiling when she felt her leaning into him.

"I should be...I want to. Could you blame me if I was? My husband has not been taking care of himself. But then again, if the tables were turned, I wouldn't be able to rest well either. And without you at home, in our bedroom...it would not feel normal. It would feel -"

"Cold? Empty? Like being in a strange world where there is nothing at all to live for?"

Tea turned her head until her eyes met with Atem's. So much intensity, love, both sadness and relief with also a touch of hurt existed within the pools of these amethyst pupils. There was still much they needed to discuss. Still much that Atem was carrying inside that he has not yet shared with her, but for now...she did not care. She just wanted to soak in this moment.

"Exactly."

Approximately three weeks have passed and things were slowly going back to normal. After the news of Tea regaining consciousness flew to the others, there had been so many hugs that anyone could count. If it was even possible to count them all. Yuki and Kimika clung to their mother for as long as they could. Afraid that if either of them let go, she would be gone again. Of course, Tea and Atem both dissolved those fears. Reassuring their children that everything was just fine.

Although she was up and feeling well as ever, Tea still had to remain in the hospital for more observation. It was to be expected, but with Tea desperately seeking the outdoors and Atem wanting to grant her wishes, the days were moving particularly slow for both of their tastes. It became much harder to handle when one little minute felt just as long as three days.

But now, the entire wait was over. And it was even more worth it when Tea finally stepped inside her home. Just looking at everything now, it was as if she was coming back from a very, long trip.

Setting her bag down in her bedroom she shared with Atem, Tea slowly walked in to take in the entire room with such complete comfort. Just from where she was standing, she could hear the distant laughter of her family from downstairs. She smiled, feeling so relieved of being out of that stuffy hospital.

The curtains were closed, so Tea opened the silky fabric of the balcony and gently pushed both doors to let in the last rays of sunlight. She loved looking at the sunset around this time. It showed so much contrast and beauty. So many colors hued together as if it was a priceless, creative portrait.

Hearing a small, jingling sound, Tea looked down to see Buyo staring up at her. Wagging his tail and prancing in circles to prove just how happy and excited he was. Tea giggled and bent down to pick him up. She had been worrying about this little furry companion while she was away from home. Remembering how Buyo tried so hard to protect her from Vivian's invasion. Atem had told her that Buyo's leg was injured from that harmful kick.

But looking at him now, Buyo was just as playful as ever. She kissed his little head, happy to see that he has healed progressively.

And what made the moment so perfect, was feeling the arms of her husband wrapping around her from behind. Feeling his presence and soaking in his scent almost made it seem like a dream. The only difference...it was real.

"How does it feel to be home?" Atem asked, lightly nipping her ear.

"Absolutely incredible," she whispered. Afraid that if her voice was just a little louder, it would ruin any small detail of this wonderful moment. "I never want to spend so much time away like that again." The grip of his arms tightened around her, but not enough where Atem would hurt or suffocate her. Tea welcomed the gesture by leaning back even further.

"I never want to let you suffer like that again," he said with such emotion in his voice. Just hearing him made Tea know how much this had affected Atem. He had yet to reveal the details to the confrontation he had with Vivian. And whenever she did bring up the matter, someone would come into the room, the subject was moved to a different topic or Atem would just avoid the conversation all together. What was it that he did not want her to know?

She needed to know.

"We have to talk," she felt him go rigid against her. He already knew what the talk would lead to.

Tea slowly turned in his arms, all without him having to move one inch. Atem avoided her eyes when she tried to get him to look at her, which only proves to how serious this subject was. But it only made her determined to find out - no matter how much it hurt.

"Atem, we need to -"

"Mommy, Daddy!" Tea was cut off by the two little voices of her children coming inside full of smiles. She was a little disappointed by the sudden interruption, but Kimika and Yuki were just children. And she was happy to see them run up to her without having anything medical come in the way. They were so excited with having their mother back home to know if their parents were having a serious conversation or not.

Although, this gave Atem the opportunity to avoid their talk once again. However, it was for a good reason. No matter what the situation or how they were feeling, the twins always came first. And it was how she wanted it to be.

Tea stooped down in time to catch both of her treasures in a loving hug. "My goodness, you two are filled with such energy, aren't you?" she said with laughter in her voice.

Kimika looked up to Tea with such adorable eyes. "Mommy, we're hungry," she replied verbally and with the growls from hers and Yuki's tummy, who also agreed with his sister.

Atem knelt down next to Tea, giving a playful tickle to the twins and answered for Tea. "Well, then how about you two get cleaned up and I'll fix up something great. And to make it even more fun, you guys pick out a movie and we can bring everything in here," he replied and chuckled when he watched his kids run off with Buyo dashing behind, talking in such bubbly excitement.

Tea watched as Atem began to rise from the floor again, making her follow his action. But she stood up a little too quickly, where she started to stagger on her feet. A very unfortunate time for her. If Atem took notice, then there was no chance of them going into what she wanted to speak about.

"Easy there, love." And it was exactly what had happened. Atem saw the little slip in Tea's balance and caught her before she lost it completely. Setting her down on the bed, Atem held her shoulders comfortably. "You're still not at your full strength yet."

Tea sighed and looked away from Atem's piercing, loving eyes. It was futile to even bring up the subject at this point. She knew that when she did ask, it would just be denied because of her dizzy spell. Curse her weakness at the most unreasonable time.

But what could she do? She couldn't exactly wish it away. The recovery process was still in effect. So, it was only logical that she continued to be patient until she was strong enough once again.

Even without looking at him, Tea could sense that Atem wanted to tell her something, but the calls from the twins were beginning to sound much eager. Oh, how she missed hearing those melodious voices from her precious treasures.

And just by seeing the hesitant stance, Atem did not want to leave things as they are now. Tea loves his caring nature. So, taking his hand, Tea gave her husband the most purest smile she could make. One filled with such love and reassurance. "Go check on our babies...I need to freshen up anyway."

Pulling her into a kiss, Atem gingerly allowed himself to drown within her soft, luscious lips. Hearing their quiet, passionate sighs escaping as the kiss became even more heartfelt and loving. He wanted so badly to deepen this kiss. To lose himself to the desires of this magnificently, beautiful woman.

But alas, they had to stop before things became a bit heated. Although, that didn't stop Atem from placing a kiss on Tea's forehead. "Tonight...after the kids are asleep, I will tell you everything." He thought it was only fair that he discussed this with Tea. His only fear...was that she did not think any different of him. She needed to know he was still the same man that she married.

Please understand when I tell you...

It was the first night in so long that Atem had this much enjoyment with Tea and his children. It was as if the last few weeks hardly ever happened. He couldn't remember the last time when he sat and watched a silly little flick on television...wait, that's not true. He did remember. The night when he and Tea were carelessly sitting in the safety of their home, watching one of her favorite films. Only to be hit with the brink of dire tragedy, which occurred to Atem almost losing Tea.

It was there...no matter how hard he tried to forget it, that night - that horrible, terrifying night was always plastering within his mind. How foolish he felt just thinking about not being able to protect Tea at that moment.

And as he stood against their bedroom door, staring at her as she softly brushed her hair, he silently thanked the Heavens above for allowing him to have more time with her. He just could not imagine waking up every morning and not see her beside him. He couldn't go through a minute without seeing her smile or feel her warmth.

But he didn't have to think such thoughts. Because she was here. Alive and well...with him.

He lost track of how long he stared at her, but when Tea began to glance his way, he didn't care how much time passed then.

No words were exchanged as he stood behind her and took the liberty in taking over brushing her chestnut locks. Atem was always in awe by how soft her hair was whenever he had the chance to touch it. He even noticed how long it was becoming. Stopping only a few inches past her shoulders and along her back. He smiled when he heard her light purrs to his soft brush strokes. Just the littlest things about her has such a huge affect on him. And there were never any complaints.

"Are our little bunnies fast asleep?" Tea quietly asked, bringing him out of the deepest of his thoughts.

"Tucked inside their little burrows," Atem answered while setting down the brush, feeling satisfied by the way her hair moved so majestically. He gently turned Tea around, not wanting to look at her through the reflection on a mirror. He wanted to take in her beauty through his eyes. Inside and out. As he touched her, Atem felt himself being drawn into a world of dreams. A pleasant, everlasting dream where he could go to whenever he wished. A dream...where only the two of them existed.

But he knew what was coming next and it would interrupt this beautiful dream temporarily.

"You know that I would never intentionally hurt you, right?" he asked, slightly afraid of how he should form his next words.

She looked upon him in confusion. Of course she would. He suddenly spoke of something so random, but also serious to where the wheels of concern and worry were beginning to turn. Tea reached up to cup his cheek. That touch of hers...so comforting, intimately pleasant, sometimes playful and mostly loving could make his insides melt into a gooey puddle. Although, those would not be his exact words out loud, but just looking at his magnificent lotus flower, he didn't care how he described his feelings.

"Yes, I do know that...you never have to conjure up the very thought." Tea slowly ran her hand up and down Atem's left cheek. "Why do you ask such a silly question?"

"Because I'd never want you to ever see me in such a horrific way when I lose my temper." He held her hand so closely, fearing that what he'll say will make Tea leave him. "You've already had the unfortunate experience of seeing me that way before...when I was fighting against Renji after he...touched you and violated your personal space," he sneered in a bitter tone just thinking about the bastard.

"What are you talking about?" Tea asked, feeling so perplexed. "Where is this - ?" And then it suddenly hit her. Just by her expression, Atem figured that Tea knew what he was referring to and she lowered her head, probably imagining how the outcome went. He wished that he could put this whole mess behind them, but Tea deserved to know.

He left her side, walking over to look out of the balcony doors. Although, it hurt to move away from Tea, Atem had to recollect that entire night if he wanted to explain things as easily as possible. His heart was beating so hard that he was afraid it would rip through his chest. He inhaled slowly, trying to tame himself to calm down and when he exhaled, it seemed some of the tension was melting away.

"Tea...I don't know how to even begin explaining this. I want - so badly - to forget this ever happened. I wish that there was a rewind button I can press to take us back to our last night together. Watching you in that bed, not knowing when you would awake...waiting day after day just to have those eyes of yours open was madness. I was hurt, confused...so frustrated, completely furious...knowing that there was nothing else I could do to help you." His fist clenched so tightly, Atem could have sworn that blood was ready to be drawn through his knuckles.

But he forced himself to calm down. He needed to if he was going to have a clear head of discussing the next part. "When I finally did find out that Vivian was the cause behind this...interrogating her felt like a goddamn game of tag. Even when she knew she was caught, she constantly kept lying in my face. Trying to find any loop hole that she could escape through. I couldn't stand for it. To watch that phony innocent expression that she conjured up. So...it was time for me to go on a different level. A violent level."

Atem didn't miss the soft gasp that escaped from Tea. He wanted to turn and see her eyes, but one glance at her would probably cease him into going any further. It was hurting him to have to relive the entire moment again, and it hurt even more knowing that Tea may look at him in a whole different perspective. How would she react? How could he even continue?

Instead of trying to answer these unanswered questions, Atem forced himself to stay on the task at hand.

It's too late to stop now...even if I wanted to, I can't turn back. "Vivian could tell there was something...strange in my behavior when she refused to tell me the truth. She began to get defensive and afraid, not knowing what I'd do next. My anger was already to a point where it was impossible for me to control anymore. And at the time...I couldn't care less. Because that was just how much rage I had wanted to throw out at her."

"What did you do?"

"...I was very close to rearranging Vivian's face when she still would admit to what she did. And when she finally did fess up to her wrong doings...it was, as if, she was proud to what she'd nearly accomplished. How much she was counting on you to die." Atem clutched his head, feeling a sign of pressure coming along. "I had snapped...I wasn't in control of my mentality. Both of my hands were tightly clenched around her throat. Her life was in the palm of my hands...to do what I wanted with it. In that moment, seeing her choking to death was an enjoyment for me. I wanted her to suffer that same way she made you suffer, Tea. To put it simply, I wanted to kill her," Atem's voice was so deep, so hollow...that even he didn't recognize it.

He dared himself to glance at Tea after hearing a choked sob she was failing to conceal. And just as he confirmed, she was giving him a wide-eyed, teary expression that was breaking his heart. He felt so ashamed. "I know that what I did...was horribly wrong, but I couldn't just allow Vivian to play with our lives any longer. As much as I'd wanted to take her out of existence...I could not take another person's life." Atem did his hardest to control the erupting sorrow that was begging to burst out. "Tea, I have always been mindful of my emotions. Careful to who I showed my deepest feelings towards. Either in the business world, my friends or anyone else. But after you came into my life, knowing of your past heartaches and whatnot, I just had to...reopen my heart for you - despite of my failed relationship with Vivian."

Atem reached out to take hold of Tea's shoulders, not wanting to watch another tear escape from her cerulean eyes. "You have every right to be upset with me. I could have handled this matter much differently...You can hate me, slap me, call me a monster - I don't care. All that matters to me is that you still look at me as the man you love so much. Who loves you and our children until my last breath. And even then I will love you."

"Stop...just stop talking," Tea replied in barely a whisper, trying very hard to speak through her hiccuping sobs. "How could you...?"

"I know, I know, Tea...I'm so sorry. If I could go back and redo everything -"

"No!" she cut him off and threw her arms around Atem's waist, causing him to grunt in surprise. "How could you think for one second...that I'd think of you as some kind of monster? Yes, what you tried to do to Vivian was the wrong way to handle it, but the important thing was that you were able to stop yourself." Tea pulled herself back enough so that her eyes could look up to Atem's. "Someone who could do that is NOT considered a monster. Completely the opposite. It shows just how much humanity you have. You may not believe it sometimes, but you do have a heart."

Atem returned the embrace without any hesitation. Holding her like this felt unbelievably satisfying. "Well, that's only because I have you in my life. But I tell you, love, whenever I think about it...it frightens me to the deepest of my soul to touch you with my own hands. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I'd ever caused you or the twins any sort of pain. It's bad enough that I can't protect you when there is any sign of danger. I feel like I'm failing you as a husband."

"Now you listen to me, Atem Mutou," Tea firmly began as she pulled out of Atem's arms in order to grab his hands. "If you're referring to these warm, lovable...gentle hands here, then I am sorry to say that you don't know them very well. Your hands may handle the most toughest of things in the world, but I've never felt so incredibly protected when they touch me. And yes, maybe sometimes you are not in time to stop the terrible things that happen, but you are always able to find me and comfort me whenever I need you. The same thing goes for our children, too. You are always alert and making sure that they stay safe." Tea gently held both of Atem's cheeks, making him lock his eyes with hers. "You are not failing us...you are not failing me. When I lie in your arms, I know perfectly well that I'm safe because that's how much love I feel from you. You are my husband and I love you...and I am so grateful to have you in my life. To know that we've found each other. Two lost broken hearts, that were on the brink of dying, were able to seek out and find their touch of love. And I may sound like an old romance movie or a caption from one of my favorite novels, but I have never felt so happy just knowing that we love each other as much as we do. Do you understand now? So, I don't want to hear you talking badly about your role as a husband and a father. You are doing an amazing job," she finished as her tears flowed poetically down her cheeks.

Atem smiled, feeling so elated and so moved by Tea's passionate words. If he was a dart board and she was the darts, all of her shots would land on the bulls eye because that was just how accurate she was. "You had me at 'listen', do you know that?" he replied with a light chuckle.

Tea giggled as she wiped her tears away. "Well, good...I'm glad to know that my words are stuck to you. If you even think about doubting yourself again, then you are sleeping on the couch tonight," she said jokingly.

"No! Not the couch! Anything but that horrible, horrible couch!" They both laughed from that dramatic performance. Something that they have not shared in a long while, but planned on sharing many, many more laughable moments together.

Without giving her any type of clue, Atem reached down to hook his arm under her legs, smirking as he successfully brought out a surprised 'Eep' - that she was trying so hard to keep quiet - as he carried her slowly towards their bed. "As much as I would love to punish myself - after hearing those glorious words - by staying on the couch, I'd rather spend our first night back home...here with you in our bedroom," he sensually whispered as he laid her down on the soft, fluffy pillows.

She pulled him onto to the bed right after she crawled herself under the sheets, feeling him sliding in next to her. Sighing happily as she felt his arms snake comfortably around her waist, exactly where they were meant to be. For the first few minutes, they did nothing but stare at each other. Not just staring in the pools of their eyes, but in the depths of their souls. It was like they were meeting for the first time or reuniting once again after being separated for such a long time. He was the amethyst to her cerulean. The Romeo to her Juliet. They could actually feel their hearts beating simultaneously, without having the need to reach out feel it physically.

Not able to resist any longer, Atem moved closer so that his lips pressed gently against Tea's luscious ones, getting his senses to familiarize with every detail of her. It was like exploring her all over again...and he loved every second of it. The kiss was slow, deep and passionate...exactly how they wanted it.

Neither of them wanted to pull away, but air was becoming a huge issue at the moment. So, it was to their disappointment that their kiss had to come to an end...for now, at least. However, that didn't mean Atem did not let his hold on Tea go. No, he just held her ever closer, if that was even possible. He smiled when he watched Tea begin to yawn, but he could tell that she was trying to conceal it. "Looks to me like someone is tired. Why don't we both get some rest?"

Tea smiled as she snuggled deeper into Atem's embrace. "Rest? I think I've done enough of that in the hospital. I was hoping we could stay up a little longer and talk some more."

Atem remained silent for just a bit as he pushed a fallen strand of Tea's hair behind her ear. "We have plenty of time for that, beautiful. I don't plan on letting you out of my sight any time soon," he replied reassuringly.

Although it wasn't what she wanted, Tea was content with his answer. She really had looked forward to just staying awake for the entire night to continue talking with Atem, but she couldn't deny the fact that her eyes were becoming very heavy for her to keep open. She was now ready to fall into the world of dreams.

"I love you."

Her eyes reopened and Tea turned to Atem to return her words of love to him, but found that he was now fast asleep. She smiled, he looked so peaceful and calm while sleeping. And then she thought about it. This must be the first ounce of sleep that he's gotten since she's been in the hospital. When he came to visit with Yuki and Kimika, she would usually catch him dozing off in a chair or when he chose to sit near her on the bed. Seeing him now, he looked so...distant from the world, but only to the world. Because whenever she would make a move, he would sense her in his subconscious state and keep her from going anywhere. He was determined not to let her go...and for Tea, that only made her happier.

She softly kissed his lips once more before returning her head back to rest in the crook of Atem's neck. She allowed her eyes to close on their own, not having the strength to stay awake any longer. She hoped that when sleep consumed her, she would meet with Atem in a dream. But as of now, her last thoughts soared like a bird flying through the clouds before she finally fell asleep. 'I love you too, Atem...sweet dreams, my love.'

A/N: Another chapter finished. Please tell me your thoughts in your reviews and I will update again soon. There are still a few chapters until this story reaches the finale. Until next time, Moon is now signing off.