Full Moon

Full Moon

By Mally-chan and hatochiisai

Disclaimer: We do NOT own Yugioh. All original characters DO belong to us, such as Mikado, Ahmose and Takeru, who are hato’s.

YAOI WARNING

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Chapter 3

Storm Moon

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Marik sighed and opened the front door of the small, worn down house. "I'm home!!!" He called, hoping that Ishizu wasn't there. But a thump from her bedroom confirmed that she was. Marik just hoped that she wouldn't be TOO mad at him for disappearing for days straight. Again.

Moments later his big sister emerged and glared. "Marik Ishtar..." she growled. "You'd better have a good explanation for disappearing....AGAIN!" she said warningly.

Marik smiled and shrugged. "I was hungry?" He offered, sheepishly.

She grabbed his ear and pulled him into the kitchen. "See this?" she growled swatting him on the behind. "SEE?! Kitchen! THIS is where the food is!"

Marik winced. How the hell was he supposed to tell Ishizu that a teenage boy was a better cook than she was. "Well, um... uh..." Marik mumbled, wondering how to get out of this without feeling his sister's teeth.

She glared. "Well?! You'd better have a better excuse than that!" She howled, absolutely livid.

"I, uh... Oh shit!!! Ishizu! Takeru tore into Ahmose again!!! He may have some broken ribs!!!" Marik blurted suddenly, trying to change the subject. "He's got a nasty black eye and a sprained wrist and a wrenched shoulder... And, uh..."

Ishizu snarled. "Try changing the subject and YOU'LL have a black eye." she said pulling his ear more harshly.

"YEOW!!" Marik yelped, beginning to change slightly. His teeth and claws formed and he took on a light coat of golden fur. His ears lengthened and moved up on his head a bit, and his slight tail tucked between his legs as he whined.

"Why in hell did you disappear again!?" Ishizu said swatting his behind once more. "You KNOW we have food so 'I was hungry' isn't an excuse!"

Marik yelped and tried to pull away. "I made a new friend!!!" He whined, finally.

"Who?" Ishizu asked, calming down. Marik making a friend was a good thing. "A lady friend?"

Marik lay his ears back and glanced to the side. "Uh... no..." He said, knowing perfectly well what was coming next. Ishizu began to sniff him, easily picking up Ryou's scent. He sighed.

"Marik..." She sighed. "You realize he's human..." she said looking at him worriedly. "Takeru will have your hide."

"I know he's human!!! And only if Takeru finds out!!! I avoid that asshole like the plague, anyway! And hell, if Ahmose can hide the fact that he's SLEEPING with a human, while LIVING with Takeru, I can hide Ryou!!" Marik said, calming down and returning to his full human form.

Ishizu sighed and swatted him once more. "he's going to find out Marik...you cant hide his scent." she warned. "You should leave the poor boy alone while he's still alive."

"Ahmose has been with Yami for a couple of months!!! Takeru STILL doesn't know!!! Well... not that they're dating... he did find out about Yami recently, but he thinks Yami is just a study partner and classmate from the college..."

"Takeru will find out Marik. You dont have that excuse. Why ELSE would you hang around a human?" she asked harshly. "You dont study, you're a butcher!"

"Ummm... regular customer?" Marik offered with a weak smile.

"I dont buy it." She said sternly. "and he wont either."

"Well, he won't find out." Marik snorted. "He's too busy chasing ass. The only reason he found out about Yami was that Ahmose got careless and started staying out too much."

"Kinda like you?" Ishizu pointed out.

"Yeah. But I don't LIVE with Takeru." Marik said with a smirk. "Only you will know. And he won't find out unless you tell him."

Ishizu sighed. "Marik. It's not a good idea! Just let him go!"

Marik frowned. "I can't..." He mumbled. "I love him, Ishizu."

Ishizu paused and stared. Her eyes widened. "...You cant be serious...Marik are you crazy!? He's a human!"

"I KNOW!!!" Marik howled. "You think I didn't have your reaction when I found out about Ahmose and Yami?! I KNOW it's crazy!!!"

"But honey...he's a HUMAN!" she somehow clarified. "He's a human boy! You cant court humans...it would never work out! We live at least twice as long as a human does as it is! He'd be miserable!"

Marik frowned. "Not if I make him one of us..." He said softly.

"Have you even ASKED him? Does he even love you?" Ishizu said gaping. "Marik, if you do that you're signing his death warrant...Takeru will be furious..."

Marik sighed. "No, I haven't asked him!!" He said. "And... Gods, Ishizu, I don't know!!! I don't know WHAT'S going to happen!!! And I just have to hold out another few months for Ahmose to turn twenty one!!!" He didn't tell Ishizu the REASON for waiting... plotting to overthrow the leader was a terrible offense, and if Takeru found out that Ahmose was plotting to overthrow him, he would not hesitate to slit his son's throat in his sleep.

Ishizu sighed. "Marik...it doesn't matter what AGE Ahmose is. If that boy doesn't love you, if he doesn't want to be a werewolf..." she said softly. "Why would he want that?"

"I'm not going to turn him if he doesn't want to Ishizu, what the hell made you think I WOULD?!" Marik asked, looking insulted.

"I didn't think you would if he didn't want to Marik. But if he doesn't want to, then you and him will NEVER work out." She explained.

Marik nodded. "I know. If he doesn't want me, I won't pursue it." He mumbled.

Ishizu sighed. "Why cant you settle for one of the bitches in the pack?" she said giving him an exasperated look. "Hell, even a bitch off the streets!? Why would you pick a human..."

Marik shrugged. "I dunno..." He mumbled. "Maybe because Takeru has already gotten to all of the bitches in town and I don't want HIS leftovers..."

Ishizu sighed. "Why can’t you be normal? Taking Ahmose as an example is just insane. He's going to get himself killed."

"Not if he kills Takeru first..." Marik muttered.

Ishizu swatted him once more. "Talk like that will get us ALL killed." she hissed.

Marik yipped and ducked away. "Oh, come on, sis. Everyone knows it's only a matter of time before Ahmose takes down Takeru. The question is will it be sooner or later? If Takeru thinks that Ahmose is going to wait around for him to step down, then he's dumber than I thought!!!"

Ishizu glared. "Shush!" she hissed. "I wont have that kind of suicidal talk in MY house!"

Marik snorted and mumbled under his breath, but did as he was told and shut up. "Fine... But I'll tell you this... it'll be sooner rather than later." And he gave Ishizu a wicked grin.

Smack. One more swatting. "Hush!" She scolded. "You just leave that poor human alone."

"No way!!! He invited me to dinner again!!!" Marik giggled, scuttling out of the room to avoid another swat. "And he's the best cook I've ever met!!!"

Ishizu fumed and howled furiously after her brother. "ASS!"

"Sorry, sis!!" Marik called back, giggling. "But your cooking can't hold a candle to Ryou's!!"

Ishizu growled. "If I catch you, I'll kick your ass!" she called, though she wasn't chasing him. "Idiot brother..." she grumbled.

"You're not much of a cook..." Marik said, poking his head into the room. "But you're a top notch sister." And he grinned. "Come on... you gotta admit it... me and Malik turned out all right."

"You turned out fine." she huffed. "Scat you or I'll pop you one." she grumbled. "Go eat your 'better cooking' and get outta my face."

Marik smiled and disappeared, changing clothes. "Actually, I'm bringing him dinner this time!" He said, coming into the kitchen and kissing her cheek. "I think he could use a break. He's a real sweetheart."

"What are you going to take him?" Ishizu asked after a moment.

"Oh, I'm bringing dinner to him." Marik said with a smile, pulling his jacket on. "Why?"

"Because you can’t cook at all." Ishizu pointed out. "So you're just buying take out then?"

Marik nodded. "Yeah." He said. "Don't wait up for me, hmm?"

Ishizu laughed softly. "Fine. At least I know where you are..."

And with a smile and wave, Marik was gone. He headed for a restaurant and picked up some food, then headed to Ryou's house. Ryou wasn't home, so Marik let himself in and put the food in the oven to keep warm. And when Seto's limo pulled up in front of the house, the golden dog was sitting on the front step, tail wagging eagerly.

Ryou got out of the limo with Seto and smiled. "Thank you...I had a wonderful time..." he cooed softly, a blush once more creeping up his cheeks.

Seto got out, too. "Your dog is waiting for you." He said with a chuckle, looking at the porch. Then he looked back at Ryou with a smile.

"I told you...he always comes at night to keep me company." Ryou giggled.

Seto smiled. "What's his name?"

Ryou blinked. "Oh, his name's Marik." He said smiling.

Seto chuckled and whistled. "Marik! C'mere!!!" He called. The animal blinked and lifted an ear. He cocked his head, then snorted and lay down, staring at Seto.

Ryou laughed. "C'mon Marik...please?" he asked giving Marik a cute pout.

Marik lay his ears back and whined, but got up and walked over to them, sitting at Ryou's feet and licking his hand.

Ryou stooped and hugged the wolf. "Thank you." he cooed rubbing foreheads with Marik. "This is Marik." he said smiling at Seto.

Seto smiled and slowly knelt, holding his hand out so Marik could sniff him. Marik backed away and pressed against Ryou, staring at Seto as if shy.

Ryou nudged Marik. "You owe him an apology for peeing on his car." he scolded softly.

Marik blinked and flicked an ear, then began licking Ryou's cheek and wagging his tail.

Ryou nudged him towards Seto. "Not me! Him!" he giggled. "Apologize to him!"

Marik stared at Seto, and huddled down, looking scared.

"Awww.... he's shy, huh?" Seto asked.

"Hardly." Ryou snuffed slightly. "He's just a ham." he stood back up and shook his head. "As soon as you're gone he'll be all over me." he giggled. "Well...thank you again...I had a great time." he said blushing slightly.

Seto nodded and stood. "I had fun, too." He said, leaning over and kissing Ryou softly, this time on the lips. Marik's hackles rose and his ears lay back. He growled.

Ryou's eyes widened, then fell closed and he slowly melted against Seto. Which did nothing for poor Marik, who nearly went berzerk when he saw.

Marik began barking angrilly, and Seto suddenly yelped as he was jerked away from Ryou. Marik had the tails of Seto's trench coat in his teeth and was dragging the CEO down the street, growling furiously.

Ryou squeaked and hurried over, grabbing Marik and pulling him away. "Marik NO!" he scolded swatting Marik's behind, and wrestling the coat-tail from his jaws. "NO!" He hefted the wolf up and gave Seto an apologetic look. "I'm so sorry..."

Marik made a confused noise as he found himself in Ryou's arms, then turned and began licking his face again, tail wagging a mile a minute. Seto laughed.

"It's okay. He sure is protective of you." He said. "He must make a great guard dog."

Ryou put Marik down and shoved him towards the house. "I'm not so sure..." he said shaking his head once more. "I'm so sorry..." he looked back at Seto. "I didn't know he'd attack like that..."

"It's okay. He didn't hurt me." Seto said with a smile. "I'll see you Monday?"

Ryou blushed slightly. "I dunno...I really should study..." he said thoughtfully.

Seto shrugged. "Well... you have my number." He said.

Ryou laughed. "I suppose so." he shook his head.

Seto smiled. "good night." And he got into his car and it drove away.

Ryou sighed and glared at Marik. "Why'd you go and do that?!" he huffed opening the door and letting Marik in, walking in as well and closing it.

Marik changed almost immediately. "He was KISSING you!!!" He howled, throwing his hands up into the air.

Ryou blushed. "Yeah so?"

Marik frowned and pouted, whining a bit.

Ryou rolled his eyes. "Oh hush. He has just as much right to kiss me as you do to SPY on me in the shower!" he said crossing his arms.

Marik frowned. "Stupid rich boy..." He growled, teeth sharpening. It was then that Ryou once again realized that he was standing in the front hall with a naked man.

Ryou whined. "MARIK! CLOTHES!" he howled blushing darkly and covering his eyes. "CLOTHES CLOTHES CLOTHES!"

Marik blinked, then snickered. "Oh yeah. Clothes. right..." And he walked off.

Ryou whined and shook his head. "Honestly!" he howled, walking towards the stairs and shaking his head, now sure he wouldn't see Marik. He walked up, and carefully stripped once he was in the bathroom, and began another nice hot nerve-soothing shower.

But once again, a wolf head poked into the room and stared. Marik was wagging his tail.

Ryou sighed as he bathed. "Must you watch?"

Marik's ears shot up. How did Ryou know he was there?!

Ryou smiled serenely in the shower. "I can hear you panting, and your tail is hitting the wall again. Now, do you MIND?"

Marik blinked, then frowned and walked right into the bathroom and plopped down in the middle of the floor, staring at Ryou boldly.

Ryou blushed and whined. "Marik!" he pouted grabbing his towel. "Why do you have to stare?!"

Ryou watched in amazement as Marik changed before him again, and the man walked over and flung the shower door side open. "Like you said. If I have the right to watch you shower, then Rich Boy has the right to kiss you. So if you're gonna let him kiss you, then you can let me watch you shower."

Ryou pouted. "I didn't mean forever! You saw me once that's all you get!"

Marik blinked, then smirked and stepped into the shower.

Ryou gasped softly and backed up, pouting when his towel began to get wet. "Marik!" he whined, his eyes opening because his face was nowhere near water at the moment, although his backside was. "C-c'mon get out! I need my bath!"

Marik just drew closer to Ryou, backing the boy into the wall. Then, he bent down, and kissed him.

Ryou whimpered softly, once again melting into a kiss. His grip on the towel loosened, and moments later a soft splat was heard, as the wet towel slid to the floor during the kiss.

Marik pressed Ryou against the wall, moaning and stroking Ryou's face.

Ryou moaned softly and his hands slid up to rest on Marik's chest as they kissed. He whimpered softly after a moment when the need for air finally arose.

Marik leaned away and slowly blinked at Ryou, then smiled. "... Wow..."

Ryou gave Marik a dazed look before shaking his head slightly, cheeks beginning to burn. "AH! For heaven's SAKE!" he whined. "I NEED MY BATH OUT OUT!" he howled snatching up his towel and backing under the water, hoping to find safety there.

Marik smiled. "Okay." He said, picking up the soap. "C'mere."

Ryou stared shocked. "Marik! I need privacy..." he whimpered.

Marik just smiled and rubbed the soap in his hands, working up a lather, then reached out and began rubbing it over Ryou's shoulders.

Ryou whined softly, the blush on his cheeks practically glowing. "Mariiiiik..." he mewled, clutching his towel tighter.

But Marik just moved closer and began to bathe Ryou, smiling slightly.

Ryou pouted but submissively let Marik bathe his shoulders, though he clutched his towel tightly and was blushing darkly.

Marik leaned over and kissed Ryou again, pulling the boy into his chest and running soapy hands over the human's back.

Ryou yelped softly and once again, slowly melted into the kiss, though his hands loosened their grip on the towel, he didn't let go.

Marik smiled and continued to kiss Ryou here and there as he bathed him tenderly until Ryou was clean. "Hmm..." He mused.

Ryou looked dazed, pleased and embarrassed at once. He whimpered softly.

Marik smiled. "Ready for some dinner?" He asked.

Ryou pouted. "I've been violated." he mumbled sniffling.

Marik blinked, but smiled and suddenly swung Ryou up into his arms. "Oh, come on now... I didn't grope your ass or jerk you off or anything..." He said, turning off the shower and carrying Ryou out of the bathroom.

Ryou blushed and nodded slowly. "No, but you saw me naked." he pouted. "Pervert."

Marik smiled. "And you've seen me." He said.

"Not because I wanted to!" Ryou objected. "OR because I watched you in a shower! This is unfair"

Marik smiled. "Ah, but you weren't objecting, were you?" He asked setting Ryou down on his bed.

"It's hard to object when you're sucking my face!" Ryou whined louder.

Marik looked at Ryou. "Do you want me to leave?" He asked, in all seriousness.

Ryou frowned softly and clutched his little towel. "I just wanted some privacy in the shower. I love your company...b-but..." he whimpered.

Marik sighed and drooped. "I overstepped my boundaries."

Ryou blinked. "I-it's alright...I don’t hate you for it..." he said softly. "I just...don’t like being watched in the shower..."

Marik smiled. "But you're so SEXY in the shower!!!" He whined with a giggle.

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "I'm not sexy."

Marik grinned. "Oh, I beg to differ."

Ryou huffed. "Only because you were touching me in the shower." he pouted. "Can I at least have some privacy getting dressed?" he grumbled crossing his arms, the cutest pout on his face.

Marik snickered. "Sure." He said. "Meet me in the kitchen." And he waltzed his naked ass out the door.

Ryou dressed in his pajamas and wandered out not long after Marik, hoping his friend had dressed as well. "Marik?"

Marik smiled. He was in the kitchen, wearing an apron. And nothing else. "Hi!" He said, holding plates that he had put the take out food on. "I brought dinner!!!"

Ryou sighed shaking his head. "Marik, you didn't get dressed..." he pouted cutely.

Marik grinned and walked over to the table, setting the plates down. He turned around Ryou sighed again, seeing that Marik WAS wearing his boxers under the apron, with big headed chihuahuas wearing goofy looks on their faces.

Ryou smiled softly and shook his head. "Chihuahuas?" he asked looking over what Marik had brought.

Marik blinked and looked back at Ryou, then looked down at his own ass. "Oh. Yeah. The Pack sometimes gives stupid birthday gifts... And brothers. Malik gave me these. Mikado laughed himself silly when he saw them."

"Cant say I blame him...you look silly." Ryou giggled. "Seto said I should adopt you."

Marik nearly tripped, but then turned around and looked at him. "Say what?"

"Seto, he said I should adopt you as my dog." Ryou giggled.

Marik blinked as he grabbed them some drinks, then snickered. "Oh really now?" He asked. "I'll think about it."

Ryou laughed. "Dont I get a say?"

Marik snickered. "Sure. What's your say? You want a dog to keep you company?" And when Ryou looked up, he saw Marik was wagging a tail poking out from over the hem of his boxers.

Ryou laughed. "Put that away!" he said smiling. "I dunno...you'd be a big responsibility. I'd have to bathe you and feed you and walk you..."

Marik burst out laughing. "Ah, but I come with included conveniences. I can bathe myself, I can get my exercise on my own, I can feed YOU from time to time..." He indicated to the dinner on the table. "AND I can keep horny teenage CEO's from putting their filthy paws all over you."

"Pardon my saying so, but your 'paws' aren’t any bit cleaner." Ryou huffed, though he was smiling.

Marik blinked and looked down at his hands. "I just WASHED them!!!" He whined, pulling on his shirt and pants before sitting down at the table with Ryou.

"You're so jealous.." Ryou said shaking his head. "Are you honestly so interested in me?"

Marik blinked, and the blood rose in his cheeks. "Well... yeah." He said, looking up at Ryou and picking up a fork, poking at his food.

Ryou blushed as well. "Really?...But...you're a werewolf!" he giggled. "It'd be awkward..."

Marik sighed and nodded, then looked up at Ryou. "You... you can... you could always become one, too, ya know..."

Ryou raised an eyebrow. "Become one? As in...become a werewolf?" he frowned. "I dunno...that's....a big change for someone I just met."

Marik gulped. "I... I know. I mean... Ryou..." He sighed and put the fork down. "I'm a pretty strong wolf. Plenty of the bitches in the pack have wagged their tails for me... hell, even some of the males. I've even had some humans wag their non-existant tails for me. But none of them ever... interested me... But for some reason, I'm drawn to you like a moth to the flame. And... I know we just met, and I'm not ASKING you to suddenly make a permanant life changing decision on my account, but... consider it, if you ever feel that maybe... you love me too?"

Ryou blushed and looked down at his food. "You love me..." he said softly. "I dont know Marik...." he mumbled softly. "I'd....I'd make a terrible wolf. I'm not strong, or brave or even all that cunning..." Ryou sighed. "You'd be much better with someone strong like yourself. Isn't that what wolves like? Strong lovers that can contribute something? Lets face it, my cooking is about the only real skill I have..."

Marik blinked, and smiled. "Ryou... that's why wolves are in a pack. That's why WE live in a pack. Everyone has different skills. Do you really think that all of us are strong and powerful? We're not. And your cooking would drive the pack WILD!!! It's GREAT!!! You prepare the best meat ever!!! You'd be the hit of the Pack Barbecue!!!"

Ryou frowned. "And...what about my home? I cant just give up my home and schooling to live with wolves...." he said biting his lip.

Marik smiled, but shook his head. "No. You don't. I mean... look at us. We live here in houses. Mikado and Malik are going to High School. Ahmose is attending college here in the University. All it does is give you a more exciting night life."

Ryou sighed. "I'd be part ANIMAL!"

Marik smiled. "So?" He asked, picking up his fork again and cutting his steak. "I've been this way my whole life. It's no big deal. It's... FUN!!"

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "for you maybe...I'm not a big hiker, or a camper...the outdoors is for outdoors."

Marik rolled his eyes. "Honestly. We don't live in dens in the woods, Ryou!!!"

"I couldn't live without toilet paper." Ryou added crossing his arms. "Dogs dont wipe. I would be so grossed out!"

Marik blinked again. "Where the hell are you getting these ideas?! For gods sakes, my sister whines that I use TOO MUCH toilet paper!!!"

Ryou giggled softly. "Not while you're a wolf. I've NEVER seen a wolf use toiletries."

Marik laughed. "Ryou, don't worry about it!!!" He said. "Honestly, Ryou. It's all fine."

Ryou sighed once more. "I don’t think I could Marik...I mean..." he sighed and poked his food lightly. "What...about Seto?"

Marik smiled. "I’m not ASKING you to make a decision. If you want, wait a year and then say no." He said with a shrug.

Ryou sighed and went back to his food. "If I was to wait a year to say no, why not just say it now?"

Marik rolled his eyes. "Look, just... give it some thought?"

Ryou nodded slowly. "I'll...consider it." he cooed softly.

Marik absolutely BEAMED. "Great." He said, poking some meat into his mouth.

Ryou ate as well, and once they finished, he gathered the dishes and washed them. "What movie should we watch tonight?" Ryou asked smiling.

Marik shrugged. "I dunno." He said.

Ryou sighed softly. "Indecisive..." he grumbled, having dealt with the same thing from Seto all day. He picked a movie and popped it in.

Marik smiled and plopped onto the sofa, and looked at Ryou.

Ryou and Marik watched the movie until once again, poor little Ryou fell asleep, cuddled up to Marik. He looked so serene...and the way the moonlight through the window looked as it glimmered across Ryou's hair, was almost picturesque. Plus those lips were there... still.

Marik sighed and shook his head. "Kid... your lips are gonna fall off between me and Rich Boy..." He mumbled, picking Ryou up and carrying him to the guest bedroom again. Once again he tucked Ryou in and climbed into bed next to him. Then he smiled and gently kissed the boy, before drifting to sleep.

The next morning, Marik woke up to a VERY pleasant surprise...

Ryou was cuddled up against him and practically purring his name, in his sleep.

Marik smiled and sighed, closing his eyes and cuddling Ryou close again, nuzzling his face into the boy's hair and enjoying his scent.

That's when he felt the first soft kisses across his bare chest.

Marik's eyes shot wide open and he stared down at Ryou, blinking.

Ryou was dead asleep, there was no mistake about that...but the boy was obviously having SOME kind of 'dream' and apparently Marik was getting rewarded for it.

Ryou cooed softly and kissed his chest more, whispering his name softly.

Marik gulped and shivered, just... watching Ryou. He slowly lifted a hand and gently ran his fingers through Ryou's hair.

Ryou pressed closer and nibbled along with the kisses. Good dreams… good dreams. "Marik..." Ryou mewled softly.

"Yes?" Marik whispered into Ryou's ear, wondering what the human would say.

Ryou's response however, was too soft and mumbly for the curious wolf to understand, and his lips were met with Ryou's.

Marik blinked and his eyes widened, but he pulled away. "Say that again, baby?" He cooed, and this time, a wolf's ear perked and listened.

Ryou mumbled softly once more though Marik was able to make out part of it this time. "good kisser..." he whispered, a blush creeping up his sleeping cheeks.

Marik chuckled. "Why thank you." He said, tail poking out from under the blankets and wagging. "So are you."

Ryou kissed Marik once more, a bit heatedly, humming in pleasure.

Marik smiled and kissed back. "You're the one I've ever wagged my tail for..." He whispered into Ryou's ear. "I hope that one day, you will do the same for me..."

Ryou's blush darkened and he nuzzled closer. "scared..." he mumbled softly clinging to Marik and sniffling in his sleep, though still pressing soft little kisses to Marik's chest.

"Why? Of what?" Marik whispered back, rubbing Ryou's back in a soothing manner.

"Werewolves..." Ryou replied softly.

"Are you scared of me?" Marik asked.

Ryou paused and looked sorrowful. "dunno..."

"I would never hurt you..." Marik whispered, hugging Ryou. "The only one you need to fear is the Alpha."

"H-he'll kill me..." Ryou whispered softly. "I...know..." his mumbling softened and he curled up.

"I wouldn't let him. And neither would his pups." Marik murmured to Ryou.

Ryou growled softly at Marik in his sleep and curled up tighter.

Marik blinked, then snickered and grinned. "What was that? Did you just growl at me?!"

Ryou grunted softly and grumbled a bit more.

"... I love you..." Marik whispered. "I would die to protect you from the Alpha."

"I love you...." Ryou whispered softly.

Marik smiled. "What about Kaiba?" He hissed suddenly.

Ryou shivered. "mmmmmm....good..."

Marik blinked. "Good? What do you mean by that?!"

Ryou let out a rather high pitched giggle. "Good..."

Marik's eyes widened even more. "What did you two DO?!?!"

Ryou giggled more and pulled the covers over his face.

Marik blinked. "... Ryou... are you awake?"

"Well yes, you just SHOUTED at me!" Ryou giggled from under the covers. "What did you think would happen?!"

Marik frowned. "How far have you gone with Kaiba?!"

Ryou peeped out from under the blankets looking surprised. "E-excuse me? That's a bit personal isn't it?"

Marik tackled Ryou and began sniffing him, furiously.

Of course, seeing as Ryou'd had a shower, and slept with Marik the previous night, there was no scent of Seto remaining.

Marik frowned and snorted, then glared at Ryou.

Ryou giggled and got out of bed. "I'm going to Seto's house." he cooed. "I forgot my book last night."

Marik frowned and lifted his head. "What?! But you were at Seto's YESTERDAY!!! AND the day before!!! And the day BEFORE!!!" He whined, loudly.

"I forgot my book Marik! I need it back." Ryou said picking some clothes from his wardrobe. "Besides, don’t you have work?"

"No." Marik said. "It's Sunday."

"Then you can play in my house." Ryou said softly. "I wont be gone long. I'm just going to pick up my book then come back."

Marik frowned and got up. "I'm coming with you." He said.

"Not after you bit his coat!" Ryou scolded. "You can wait here. When I get home I'll make us a nice hot lunch. Anything you want." he said softly. "I promise I wont be long. Don’t act like I'm leaving you."

Marik frowned and a moment later, he was a wolf, holding the hem of Ryou's shirt in his teeth and whining, giving Ryou... THE EYES.

Ryou blinked then shook his head ruffling Marik's fur. "Marik I cant leave my book. I have to get it. I'll buy you some jerky while I'm out, would that make you feel better?"

Marik lay his ears back and widened his eyes, whimpering.

Ryou pouted and gave Marik the 'look' back. "I'll get in trouble!"

A moment later, a naked Marik was standing there again. "I'm coming. Whether beside you like this, or tailing you in my fur, I'm coming."

Ryou laughed. "If you walk out my door like that, I'm not coming to get you from the police station when you get arrested for indecent exposure." Ryou said calmly, walking from the room.

Marik rolled his eyes and pulled on his clothes, chasing after Ryou.

Of course, Ryou had dressed faster than Marik, and had locked the poor wolf in his house, hurrying off. He didn’t need Marik attacking Seto again.

Marik frowned. "Cheeky..." He grumbled, and went upstairs. He opened a window, removed a screen, and climbed out. He headed across the roof, jumped into a tree and climbed down, then ran after Ryou.

"Nice try." He said, catching up.

Ryou giggled softly as he walked. "I suppose you can’t run from a wolf." he cooed smiling at Marik.

Marik smiled. "I promise to behave." He said, leaning over and kissing Ryou.

Ryou shook his head. "Alright fine..." he mumbled softly. "Since you're here, could you do me a favor?" he asked, giving Marik a hopeful look.

"Depends." Marik said. "What is it?"

Ryou blushed and smiled. "Do...you think you could pick up some things from your work for me? I...wanted to make a nice dinner..." he said softly.

Marik blinked. "What about all that stuff you just bought a few days ago?" He asked. "Ryou, it's Sunday. The store is closed."

Ryou gave him bigger eyes. "I made three or four meals for you, and two for Seto." Ryou pointed out. "That about took care of what I bought. Oh please? I promise it'll be worth it!"

Marik blinked. "Ryou, it's closed." He said in a regretful tone.

Ryou gave a mournful sigh. "Well I guess I could make vegetable soup instead..."

Marik blinked, then made a face. "Oh... EW!!! I do NOT go vegetarian!!!" He whined. "We'll just pick up something from the grocery store butcher on the way home, hmm? Or go out again."

"Could you it for me?" Ryou asked offering Marik a list of VERY succulent sounding meats, some of which his butcher didn't carry

"I'm going to make a meal you'll never forget. " Ryou said proudly. "But I need those things...I'm going to get the rest." he said holding up a list of his own.

Marik blinked. "Okayyyy... I'll go after we get your book." He said.

Ryou blinked. "I was going to get it first." He said motioning to the grocery store. "Seto's house isn't this way."

"We should get your book first. THEN get the meat. Wanna use it fresh." He said. "Come on, kid. You can't keep me away from Rich Boy forever."

Ryou giggled. "I have to start slow cooking the meat as soon as I can...unless I want it to taste bad." Ryou pointed out.

"But I suppose I could make this some other day...Veggie soup is a lot easier..."

Marik blinked, then gave Ryou a look. "I hate you..." He grumbled, and pulled Ryou off to the grocery store.

Ryou grinned cutely and handed Marik his list. "Here." he cooed. "I'm going to the spices and then the vegetables." he cooed. "Get the absolute BEST you can. This is gonna be the best dinner you'll EVER have."

Marik sighed and nodded, heading to the Deli. He drove the butcher there crazy, having to sniff all the meat to pick the freshest cuts. He was still at it when Ryou came looking for him.

Ryou sighed softly and shook his head. "Honestly..." he giggled. "Are you almost finished?

Marik turned and blinked at Ryou. "Oh. Hey!" He said with a grin. "Yeah! I was just finishing." He turned to the man helping him, who looked very annoyed. "That's it."

Ryou held up his sack and smiled. "I'm finished too." He said calmly. "Lets get this meat cooking."

Marik nodded and paid for the meat, and they headed back to Ryou's house. But when they were almost there, Marik blinked and perked up. "Hey! Ahmose is finally out of the house!!" He said, watching the black SUV drive towards them. It slowed to a stop and Marik walked over to the vehicle as the driver's window rolled down. Marik froze, and his eyes widened when it wasn't golden eyes that stared back at him, but blue. Mikado sat in the passenger seat with a look of worry.

"Oh..." Marik said. "Um... T-Takeru..." Takeru gave Marik a cold smirk, then turned his eyes onto Ryou. His smirk widened.

Ryou whimpered softly and clutched his bag tightly, giving Takeru a terrified look. He backed away slightly. "M-Marik..."

Mikado waved behind his father, catching Ryou's eye and making a throat cutting motion and mouthing 'Cut it out!'

Ryou bit his lip and silenced himself, though it was obvious he was absolutely terrified.

"What are you up to, Ishtar?" Takeru sneered, still staring at Ryou.

"... Nuthin."

"Doesn't LOOK like nuthin." Takeru said. Marik didn't respond. "Who’s your friend?" Marik was silent.

"That's Ryou, Dad." Mikado said softly. "He's in my class at school with Malik. He's a friend of ours." Takeru's eyes narrowed, and he turned away to look over at his younger son. Marik turned to look at Ryou and lifted a finger to his lips.

Ryou nodded biting his lip harder, nearly drawing blood. He knew what Takeru was.... he could recognize those eyes anywhere...

After a moment of talking with his son, Takeru suddenly snarled and raised a hand, slapping the boy across the face. Mikado yelped, and fell silent, staring at his lap. Takeru glared at him for a moment, then looked back at Marik, who was glaring at the Alpha.

"You know better than to hang with... kids." Takeru said to Marik, slowly. Even Ryou understood the true meaning behind that. You know better than to hang with HUMANS. "But if you must be rebellious, fine. Just remember. Every action has a consequence." And the black car pulled away.

Ryou watched it go and sniffled softly. "H-he's going to kill me..." he whimpered softly.

Marik sighed. "No, I don't think so." He said softly. "Not now. Not with Mikado claiming you as a friend. He may have killed BOTH of us if he thought it was just you and me, but... well... Mikado's his son, and he may not be a good father, but... He let's things slide with Mikado and Ahmose more than he would with the others. I think you're okay."

Ryou sniffled. "He was glaring at me... h-he wants me dead!" he whimpered pathetically. "I saw it in his eyes!"

"Sure, he WANTS you dead. But he won't kill you. Not now." Marik said

Ryou shook his head. "I cant be a...a part of your pack...he'd just kill me!" Ryou sniffled. "Then he'd kill you!"

Marik sighed and smiled. "Don't worry. He won't be Alpha forever." He said. "Let's make dinner..."

Ryou nodded sniffling slightly, still shaken. Once they got home, Ryou opened the door and walked into the kitchen, pulling out the slowcooker and turning it on. He filled it with water, then began seasoning the water. After stirring it up, he took the two large steaks and put them in, followed by two large chicken breasts and a lean cut of brisket. he covered the cooker and smiled pulling out a large pot and beginning to boil some water. He reached into his sack and pulled out two live lobsters, and two live crabs.

"lookie here." he giggled showing one of the lobsters to Marik. "The biggest plumpest lobsters they had."

Marik made a face. "They look like giant bugs." He said. "And I heard the scream when you plop them into the water."

Ryou nodded. "They do." he said giggling. "wanna see?"

Marik's eyes widened. "Nooooooo!!!" He wailed, and fled the room.

Ryou laughed softly and put the lobsters and crabs into the water, covering them before the 'screaming' started. "They're gonna SCREAM!" he called loudly. This was a fine opportunity...

That being said, he snuck quietly out the back while Marik was hiding from the screaming lobsters.

He giggled softly as he ran to Seto's house, amused at his own cleverness. He knocked once he reached Seto's mansion. "I...I'm here to see Seto." he said softly to the servant that answered.

A few minutes later, Seto was walking down the stairs, smiling and carrying a book.

"Forget something?" He asked.

Ryou nodded smiling. "Yes.." he said sheepishly. "We never came back to get it..." he stepped in and took the book as the servent closed the door and saw himself off. "I hope I'm not bothering you..."

Seto smiled and shook his head. "Not at all." He said. "It's always nice to see you."

Ryou blushed. "I'm glad...." he said softly hugging the book.

Seto smiled. "You, uh... wanna stay and have lunch?"

Ryou blushed. "Um...sure..." he said softly. "I cant stay long though...I'm cooking..."

Seto blinked. "Oh? What are you making?"

"Some hot buttered lobster, crabs legs and meat pie." Ryou said smiling.

Seto's eyes widened. ".... wow. Are you SURE you don't want a job as head of my kitchens?"

Ryou blushed. "And put those nice people out of work?" he shook his head. "I cook for fun, not because I'm supposed to."

Seto chuckled. "I know, I know..."

"Besides, I'd cook for free if you wanted me to." Ryou said smiling. "So, what's for lunch then?”

Seto blinked. "Uhhhh... I dunno." He said with a sheepish grin.

Ryou laughed at that. "How can you not know? Dont you ever decide before lunchtime comes?"

Seto shrugged. "No, not really, no."

"How about...soup and salad?" Ryou asked smiling. "I've not had a nice soup and salad in a while...Marik keeps begging for meat."

"The dog?" Seto asked, laughing.

Ryou nodded. "Uh huh." He shook his head. "He doesn't like vegetables."

"What dog DOES?" Seto asked.

Ryou sighed. "Some dogs do..." he pouted. "So...lunch then?" he said. "I am rather hungry..."

Seto smiled and nodded. "I'll have them set us up out on the back patio."

"Ok..." Ryou said softly. "Thank you. I'm sorry I had to bother you..."

Seto smiled. "Not at all. Bother me anytime." And he kissed Ryou's cheek.

Ryou blushed and followed Seto to the back patio, clutching his book. "You're so nice...why?"

Seto blinked and looked at Ryou. "Why not?"

"Well...you said when we first met that you were usually quite cold to everyone except Mokuba." Ryou said, sitting down at the beautiful patio table.

Seto blushed a bit. "Yeah... I am..."

"Then...why are you so nice to me?" Ryou asked once more, fidgeting a little.

Seto shrugged, sheepish and embarassed. "Because I like you..." He mumbled.

Ryou blushed more. "You... like me?" he squeaked.

"Haven't I made it obvious enough?" Seto asked with a laugh.

Ryou turned a darker red. "I...hadn't really noticed it...that much." he said sheepishly. "I'm not very observant.."

Seto blinked. "And my making out with you in the car didn't give you any hint?"

Ryou blushed more. "Hush you!" he squeaked hiding behind his book. "Of course THAT gave me a clue..."

Seto snickered. "So there you go. You aren't COMPLETELY oblivious."

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "You're terrible." he said softly. "Honestly."

Seto laughed. "Sorry!"

Ryou shook his head once more but smiled broadly when the soups and salads were brought out, with breadsticks. "Oh this looks delicious!" he said eagerly, taking a bite quickly. "Mmmmmm."

Seto smiled and speared some salad onto his fork and poked it into his mouth, making a similar noise of enjoyment.

Ryou ate politely, despite his immense enjoyment of his lacking vegetation diet. Once he finished he let out an almost moan of satisfaction. "That was delicious...I've not had a good salad in days!"

Seto laughed. "Sounds like it's the DOG that has YOU on a leash!!!"

"He wanted to come with me to see you." Ryou said softly. "I told him I was just getting my book. He pouted and tried to come anyway, but I didn't want him attacking you again."

Seto chuckled. "Aw, Ryou, I wouldn't have minded. Next time, put a leash on him and he can come."

"I think I'm the one who'll have a leash on." Ryou said shaking his head. "I'm sure he's livid that I snuck out while he wasn't paying attention."

Seto laughed. "That poor animal."

"Oh poor him!" Ryou huffed. "He'll be on my case about it for hours I'm sure."

Seto laughed again. "So throw him a few sticks!!!"

"I don’t think he fetches." Ryou said thoughtfully. "Well...I should be going..."

Seto pouted a bit. "What, already?"

Ryou nodded a bit. "Well...yes..." he said standing from the table and picking up his book. "I promised I wouldn't be long..."

Seto blinked. "He's a dog. He won't know the difference."

"He's....very smart..." Ryou said after a moment. "I really should go..."

"Smart? What, can he tell time?" He asked, getting up.

"Well..yes." Ryou said softly, blushing. "He can."

Seto laughed. "Oh, can he now?"

Ryou nodded. "Yes, he can." He said softly. "And, if he's not sitting at your front door, I will be surprised."

Seto blinked. "Oh really?" He asked, laughing. "Well then... let's go see if he is." And he headed for the front door.

Ryou followed biting his lip and hugging the book. He wasn't sure what to expect. Had Marik come?

Seto opened the front door and looked on the doorstep. "Nope." He said. "He's not here."

Ryou blinked and peered out. "Wow...he's...not." Ryou said sounding genuinely surprised. "I wonder where he's at...?"

Seto shrugged. "I dunno... why don't you stay longer?" He asked with a grin.

Ryou frowned. "but....I promised..." he said softly, looking out over the front lawn once more.

Seto sighed. "Okay, okay... I get it... I'm being DITCHED for a dog." He said, throwing his hands up into the air with a dramatic sigh.

Ryou's eyes widened. "Th-that's not it at all!" he said shaking his head. "B-but I..." he bit his lip. "I am cooking. I left water boiling, and the slow cooker on..."

Seto laughed. "I'm just TEASING you!!! Go on, go on..." He said.

Ryou gave Seto a worried look. "I'm not hurting your feelings am I? I...I can stay a bit if you'd be hurt by me leaving now..."

Seto laughed. "No, I'm fine. Go home before your house burns down!!!"

Ryou smiled and leaned up to kiss Seto. "Thank you for understanding..." he whispered softly giving Seto a grateful look.

Seto laughed. "Go on, kid. Scat!" He teased, kissing Ryou's cheek and giving him a little slap on the ass to send him on his way.

Ryou giggled and scampered away, hugging the book. Once he was a ways away he turned and waved until Seto went back inside. He sighed softly and looked back to his walk home.

Seto smiled and shook his head, shutting the front door.

Ryou sighed once more and began walking home, wondering if Marik hadn't even noticed his absence at all...

It took a few minutes, but Ryou finally made it home, and with a sigh entered his home.

The smell of cooking meat filled the house, making Ryou's mouth water, but all was quiet.

Ryou sighed softly, setting his book down and looking around. "Marik?"

There was no answer.

Ryou blinked and peered into the kitchen. "Marik?"

Marik wasn't there. Ryou checked the living room. Marik wasn't there either. He wasn't in the guest bedroom, Ryou's bedroom, the master bedroom, the den, ANY of the bathrooms, or the study or basement; Marik was gone.

Ryou sighed softly and shook his head. It was to be expected. He walked back to the kitchen and began finishing the preparations for his dinner. Marik or not, there was food to be cooked, and he wasn't about to let it go bad. If Marik didn't want to share his company, then he would invite Seto for dinner. "Waste not want not." he said softly.

In the meantime, Malik, Bakura and Ishizu jumped as the front door banged open. They all turned and watched Marik pass by the kitchen on his way to his room, and he looked livid.

"Marik?" Malik called to his brother. His only answer was a door slam that shook the entire house. Marik kicked his shoes off, flung his jacket across the room, then dropped onto his bed and leaned against the wall, hugging his pillow to his chest and propping his chin up on it, scowling at the opposite wall.

Ishizu sighed and got up. "Marik?" she called softly, before going into his room. "Marik...what's wrong?"

Marik glared. He was in his halfway form, and he laid his ears back, bared his teeth, and growled. He growled even louder when Malik and Bakura peeked in, curious.

Bakura smirked. "I bet I know what it's about." he said amusedly.

Marik growled even louder. "Fuck off you flea beaten mutt!!!"

Bakura laughed. "The human doesn't want him, that's why he's pouting."

"GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY ROOM!!!" Marik roared, flinging his pillow at Bakura (and hitting Ishizu in the face) and then began chucking whatever he could get his paws on at the gloating timber wolf.

Bakura merely cackled. "Oh he chose the rich boy didn't he? He chose the other guy! I bet he ditched you at the first chance!" he howled amusedly. "I TOLD you it's not a good idea to even try with humans!"

This time, Marik himself flew across the room. He tackled Bakura to the floor in the hall, and they were both immediately a flurry of snarling fur, claws and teeth.

Ishizu growled and grabbed Marik harshly by the ear, and bent his tail. "KNOCK IT OFF!" she screeched. "Bakura! Get your ass out of here if you're going to provoke Marik, Marik goddamnit just quit bitching!" she said bending his tail more harshly. "You KNEW this would happen!"

Marik whirled and flung his sister into the wall, before lunging at Bakura again. Malik squeaked.

"MARIK!!! Stop it before Ishizu calls the Alpha in to settle this!!!" He shouted. Ishizu had to call in Takeru a few times in the past, and calling him in to settle a dispute was never pretty. The threat was enough to stop Marik's viscious attack. He backed away from Bakura, growling at him, blood smeared over his muzzle.

Bakura growled back, blood on his muzzle as well. He snorted. "It's your own fault..." he growled. "You got your stupid hopes up over a HUMAN." he turned into a full wolf and limped away slightly. Ishizu growled at Marik as well, her own ears back. "Now would be a GOOD time for you to go DISAPPEAR." she snarled.

"ME?! I live here!!! Why can't THAT cocksucker leave?!" Marik demanded to know, jerking his head towards Bakura.

"Because you had it coming!" Ishizu said harshly. "Everyone warned you, I even warned you. You cant just learn from other people's mistakes, or take someone else's advice! And then when things turn out just how everyone SAID they would, you get all upset!"

Marik just glared, and growled.

"You're acting like a spoiled brat and a brute." she added. "Go cool off and THEN come home." Ishizu slowly calmed down. "It'll do you, and us all some good."

Marik glared at her, and with a final snarl took on his full wolf form, leaving his clothes on the living room floor, and slipped out the doggy door, disappearing out of the yard.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

That evening, Ryou packed up the delicious mean he'd prepared in a basket and looked outside. It was sunset, but not night yet. He began his walk to Seto's.

When Seto was told that Ryou was on his front doorstep again, he was confused, but delighted, and he was there in an instant.

"Hey! What's up?" He asked, coming down the stairs.

"I thought I'd share dinner with you." He said softly. "My dog seems to have found business tonight... and I'd rather not be alone..." he looked back at the darkening streets and looked frightened. "I keep seeing that wolf that almost attacked me...I think he's out to get me..." he added softly. "I-it's alright that I stay?"

Seto blinked and frowned. "Ryou, you should have called..." He said softly, pulling Ryou into the house. "I would have come over in a heartbeat." And he closed the door. Outside, for the second time that day, a pair of lilac eyes watched Ryou enter the Kaiba manor.

Ryou sighed and smiled. "Thank you..." he said holding up his basket. "I made enough for us and your brother as well..." he said proudly. "I think you'll really like it..."

Seto smiled. "Sure. Wanna eat outside again? We can watch the stars. Mokuba likes to do that."

Ryou blinked and nodded. "That sounds lovely..." he cooed.

Seto smiled and walked over to an intercom on the wall. He pressed a button and spoke into it. "Mokuba, Ryou brought us dinner. Wash up and come to the back patio, please."

A moment later, Mokuba's voice came back and chirped "Sure thing, Seto!"

Ryou giggled as he and Seto went outside. He began unpacking the meal. He set three beautiful meat-pies on the table, including their small individual pie tins. He pulled a large covered platter out and opened it revealing the most delicious smelling cheese and garlic bisquits. A final platter revealed a seafood gumbo, complete with three bowls and a larger bowl of steamed rice. "There."

"WOWWW!!!" Mokuba exclaimed as he came out. "That's AWESOME!!! Jeeze Seto! Hire HIM in the kitchen!!!" Seto burst out laughing.

"I keep trying to!!!" He said.

Ryou laughed. "You both spoil me." he said shaking his head. "Well I hope you enjoy it. I spent all day cooking it." he added as they all sat down.

Mokuba plopped down and immediately dove into it. After that, Ryou wasn't sure what the boy was saying, his mouth was too full of food, but Seto kept answering him easily.

Ryou smiled and shook his head, eating calmly. It was easy to tell once again he'd created a magnificent feast. "Thank you again... for allowing me to stay." he said softly. He gave Seto a sheepish smile. "Lately the night has been frightening me."

Seto smiled. "Well... I'm not surprised. Staying all alone in your house... doesn't your dog make you feel safe?"

"He's not my dog." Ryou said softly. "And he's run off somewhere."

"Awww... your dog ran away?" Mokuba asked.

"He's not my dog." Ryou said once more. "He just comes to visit me."

"Oh. Whose dog is he?" Mokuba asked, glancing at Seto, and Seto rolled his eyes.

"Mokuba... please, not this again..." The CEO moaned.

"I WANT A DOG, SETO!!"

Ryou laughed softly. "Dogs are a big responsibility..." Ryou said smiling at Mokuba. "Perhaps you should start with something smaller to see if you've got what it takes to care for a dog. If Seto sees that you're responsible enough, he might change his mind." Ryou offered. "I hear ferrets are good starter pets. Or bunnies."

"NO FERRETS!!!" Seto said loudly.

"I want a pet, Setooooo!!!"

"I'll buy you a goldfish!!!"

Ryou laughed. "Aww... C'mon Seto, perhaps a guinea pig or a bird?" Ryou offered. "They're clean creatures."

Seto rolled his eyes. "I'll think about it..."

"I want a parrot!!!"

"How about a budgie?"

Ryou smiled. "Oh those are cute... I used to have a budgie..." Ryou said smiling. "I taught him to say hello bird."

Seto snickered and Mokuba rolled his eyes. "That's lame. I want a bird that will say things that will freak Seto out!!!"

"Oh, you are SO not getting a bird, now." Seto said.

Ryou laughed. "How about a rabbit?" he asked. "They're quiet, and calm and do cute things."

"And POOP everywhere..." Seto mumbled.

"Rabbits are for GIRLS!!!" Mokuba moaned.

Ryou laughed. "Seto EVERYTHING poops!"

"Not Seto." Mokuba said. "He's not human."

"MOKUBA!!"

Ryou laughed at that. "Ok I think this should be a conversation best saved for when I'm not around." he said wiping a few amused tears from his eyes.

"Seto's an evil alien robot sent to take over the world one corporate take-over at a time!!!" Mokuba shouted, waving his arms around, wildly.

Ryou giggled louder. "Mokuba, I think it's past your bed time." He cooed.

Mokuba frowned and pouted. "But I'm still eatingggg..." He whined.

"Take it to your room." Ryou said smiling. "And I'll make some cookies for you tomorrow."

Seto snickered. "Go on, Mokuba. The adults would like to be alone."

"Oh, well then in that case, Ryou should come with me." Mokuba said with a smirk.

Ryou laughed softly. "Oh you scoot to your room you scamp!" Ryou said nudging Mokuba. "Honestly..."

Seto rolled his eyes. "Go on, Mokuba."

"Okay. But remember the law. You're over eighteen, he's under. That makes it statutory rape."

"MOKUBA!!!"

Ryou turned pink and sighed burying his face in his hands.

Mokuba giggled and ran when Seto stood. The man watched his brother run, then slowly sat down again, his face burning in embarassment.

Ryou didn't see Seto's face, his own buried in his hands. "What a troublemaker..." he said softly.

"Yeah. I know. I live with it." Seto grumbled.

Ryou slowly regained his composure and went back to eating. "Thank you...for letting me stay." Ryou said softly, once more.

Seto smiled. "Would you... like to stay the night?" He asked.

Ryou blushed and looked out at the night. "Mmm...If it isn't too much trouble..."

Seto laughed. "Oh, heavens, no! Of course not!!! There are plenty of rooms for you."

Ryou smiled and began gathering the dishes once Seto had finished as well, and piled them into his basket. "Where would you like me to stay?"

Seto smiled. "Come on. Leave that, my employees will clean those for you." He said.

Ryou blinked. "Oh...I couldn't trouble them." He said shaking his head. "They're my dishes, not yours..."

"It's what I PAY them for!!" Seto laughed, pulling Ryou into the house and leaving the dishes on the patio table.

Ryou squeaked and followed Seto. "You...wouldn't happen to...have some pajamas and a nice shower would you? I've been cooking all day..." Ryou said blushing.

"Of course." Seto said with a smile, leading Ryou to the guestroom just down the hall from his room.

Ryou grinned broadly once they entered. "Goodness...this room's so nice!" he said looking around curiously. "A-and the pajamas?"

"I'll have some sent up for you." Seto said with a smile. "Shower is right in there... when you're comfortable, down the hall, second door on the left, okay?"

Ryou nodded and smiled. "I'll take mine now, unless you want it." he said softly. "I feel absolutely in need of a bath. Hot stoves do nothing for cleanliness." he giggled and scuttled out.

"I'll shower in my room." Seto said with a smile, and walked out.

Moments later Ryou was happily showering. Of course when he got out, he blushed. He had forgotten completly about pajamas! He blushed and wrapped a towel around his waist and peered out. "Seto...?" he called softly.

But to his delight, there were a pair of pajamas neatly laid out on the edge of the bed.

Ryou sighed in relief and hurried over to the bed and put them on. "mmm..." he hopped into the bed, a bit childishly. He couldn't remember the last time he was a guest in someone ELSE'S house!

Outside, a golden wolf sighed and slowly lay down, laying his chin on his folded paws and staring at the house, waiting for Ryou to come out.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*