Shades of the Past

Shades of the Past

Chapter Four

~*~

Jou sighed as he trod about the streets of Domino, letting the sun sink into his body as he held out his arms like a pagan god to the sun god Ra, tilting his head to the sky as he smiled. A few days, now, since he and Seto had gotten together, and it felt as if they'd never been apart. He could remember everything, now, even how he died in his first life, but Seto...Seto made it all better. He understood his frustrations with the little glitches in his memory, and helped him through it, loving him all the more. It was wonderful..to be cosseted so..sure, it had been a little awkward to explain to Mokuba what was happening, but it was all worth it to be held by Seto, to feel loved again.

He whirled around in a circle, wishing Seto could be with him...but reality had to check in, and he'd had to go back to KaibaCorp, which left him wandering, daydreaming, smiling like an idiot. He lowered his arms, smiling up at the sky contentedly. He felt undoubtedly blessed.

Otogi stood at the street corner, tossing a die up and down. He glanced from the corner of his eye, watching the mutt walk toward him. His obsession was that boy. He craved him, and he'd have him, even if it took the most drastic of measures.

Chuckling at himself, Jou shook his head at his high spirits and stuffed his hands in his pockets, whistling a cheery tune as he bounced his way down the sidewalk.

Otogi watched, in the shadows, as Jou turned the corner, and mumbled, in a cynical yet amused tone, "Heard you got a thing for Kaiba, mutt..."

Jou blinked in startlement at the voice, then turned around, cocking his head at the black-haired boy in the shadows. "Yeah, so I do. Got a problem with it, Otogi?" he replied flippantly, his teeth setting in a slight snarl. He remembered Otogi in his old life, too.

"Actually, yes." Otogi growled, jumping out and grabbing Jou by the arms, "Listen, Jou, you have no idea how I FEEL toward you....you have such an effect on me..." Otogi pulled Jou toward him, locking lips with him, painfully hard.

"Mmph!" Jou's eyes widened, then his arm jerked back, his fist socking him in the jaw to make him let go.

Otogi stumbled back, and grinsadisadistically, wiping the blood that trickled from his mouth, "You really love Kaiba that much, huh?" Otogi's eyes flashed in rage, "Well...you have 24 hours to change your mind about you and me....or I'll kill him...I *mean* it" Otogi chucked the die at him and stalked off.

Jou yelped in surprise when the die bounced off his nose, then stared after him in shock and horror. He couldn't do that...that was blackmail..!..but...he was the only one to hear it, probably others would call it heresay. He couldn't hurt Seto! He wouldn't...

He would.

A flash before his eyes showed him a picture of O'togi's face when he found out about Seth and Katsu'yaa'ra's involvement..rage..so deep, it made the piercing green eyes nearly glow.

-"How DARE you..! You have no right horning in, High Priest, it is forbidden! Yami wouldn't let you.."

"I don't care. I love her, she loves me. That's all that matters."

"I'll see you pay for this..somehow.."-

Jou shook his head, then whimpered, closing his eyes. Otogi would go through with it..he would hurt Seto if he didn't get his way..he couldn't let that happen..he wouldn't, not while he had anything to say about it..

He swallowed hard, fisting a hand. He would accept his deal...anything to protect Seto..that was all that mattered to him...

Seto sat back in his plush leather chair. His eyes shifted around his office, and a smile played on his face. He was thinking about Jou and that was all it took for a even the smallest of smiles to dance around his features. He twirled a pen in his hands, and closed his eyes, thinking of every complex feature of his blonde lover and he made an "Mmm," sound, leaning back even farther in his chair.

~*~

Otogi growled, ripping up every computer magazine with Seto's face on it.

"I hate you, Seto Kaiba, and I swear to you, Jou will be mine or your a dead man!" He took one of the pictures and a knife and sliced it in half from the neck down.

******

As the sun set, a despondent Jou opened the door to Otogi's game shop and headed inside, letting the door close behind him. His head bowed as his hands fisted helplessly before him. He wished he could tell Seto, say he was sorry..but Seto worked such long hours at KaibaCorp, he wasn't sure if he would have enough time to say anything without running up the deadline. He swallowed hard, then forced his feet to move as sad dark eyes looked around for the dice-earringed creator of Dungeon Dice Monsters.

Otogi smirked, watching Jou enter, and stepped from the shadowy corner he stood in, "I knew you'd come..."

~*~

Seto looked worried as he entered his mansion. He had waited for Jou at KaibaCorp, because he was going to greet him there and they were going to go to dinner. But he never showed up. Seto did not mask his worry as he plopped down on the couch. He called Jou's names a few times, wondering if he'd come there instead. No answer. Now, he was really worried. He stood and paced. After much considering, he grabbed his coat again and ran out, in search of his lover.

Jou jumped in startlement, then nodded, looking down. "You didn't leave me much choice, did you?" he replied, his hands falling to his sides. "Now that I'm here...you'll get what you want..you have to promise you won't hurt Seto.." he murmured softly, biting his lip as he glanced up at him earnestly.
"Okay...I won't hurt Mr. Moneybags....if....you give me EVERYTHING...I want...." He ran his hands over Jou's firm buttocks then the front of his pants, "Everything."

Jou gasped softly, dark eyes widening in horror as he blushed furiously, then paled, before nodding, closing his eyes as he forced himself to not pull away.

Otogi, slowly, unzipped the constricting jeans, grinning.

~*~

Seto searched, frantically. He couldn't find Jou anywhere. He headed toward the Game Shop. He pounded on the door.

Jou squeaked, a measure of fear drifting into the dark eyes. "H-here..?" he whimpered softly, trembling. "B-but...Otogi..if someone c-comes in.."

Otogi flicked a die at the door lock, it clicking to signal the door was locked, "You were saying...?"

~*~

Seto pounded harder, "Yuugi, Yami, ANYONE!!! Open up!!!"

Jou gulped, his eyes widening as fear washed through him like a bucket of cold water dumped on him. He took a step back, then another.

~*~

"Hold on a minute!" Yuugi's voice called, then the door opened, hefting a box in the other. "Kaiba! Hello, can I help you?" he asked, violet eyes widening in surprise.

Otogi rose a thin eyebrow, "Retreating are we? Do you really want to see Kaiba die at such a young age?" Otogi followed after him, and tore his shirt off, "If you won't cooperate...then I'll make you." He pulled a chain from a drawer and grabbed Jou by the hair, dragging him up the stairs and to a vacant bedroom.

~*~

"Jou....I can't find Jou....I mean...I can't..." Seto's eyes shone with worry as he looked at the shorter boy.

Jou cried out in surprise and fear when the black-haired teen ripped off his shirt, starting to seriously think that Otogi had lost his mind. He was almost certain when he saw him grab a chain and his hair, nearly dragging him. He winced in pain, tears springing to his eyes. "O-Otogi...! Stop, you're h-hurting me!" he protested, his voice high with fear as he half-staggered, half-fell after him. Since when had the other gotten so strong? He wasn't a weakling, but he couldn't even break his grip..his heart jumped around in his chest in terror.

~*~

"Jou?" Yuugi lowered the box with some surprise. He'd been shocked when he'd seen Jou and Seto holding hands and kissing in between classes at school, but it seemed that Jou really loved the CEO, and Kaiba loved him back. He wouldn't argue over happiness. "I thought he was supposed to meet up with you, he couldn't stop bouncing this morning and talking about it when I saw him.."

Otogi threw the blonde on the bed chaining him up, "You'll do what I tell you or you'll be punished, got it?" Otogi took the knife he had earlier in his hand. He finished taking the blonde's pants off, then disposed of his own clothes.

~*~

"I know..but he never showed up...I'm quite worried about him..." Seto murmured, glancing to the ground, "I though he was here, but, obviously, he's not...so now, I'm really worried...where could he be..."

Jou yelped in fear as he was thrown down and chained, his eyes widening. "O-Otogi...don't do this, please! Not like this..you're..you're scaring me..!" he admitted, trying to shrink away from him as much as his chains would allow. "Don't do this..please, Otogi.."

~*~

"Well, I saw him talking to Otogi earlier..maybe you should try at his game shop? They seemed to be having some sort of discussion.." Yugi replied, frowning.

Seto growled, "Of course....I should have known...thank you Yuugi...." Seto ran off, toward Otogi's game shop.

~*~

Otogi slashed Jou across the face, "Shut up, slave! Your mine now, and I'll do whatever I like with you." He got on top of Jou, and without warning or anything, plunged into him, hard and fast.

Jou cried out in pain, his head jerking to the side as a ribbon of blood ran down his cheek to his neck. 'This can't be happening..it can't! Gods, please, somebody wake me up!'

But it was no dream. As Otogi slammed into the blond without any preparation, taking him ruthlessly, he screamed, pain ripping through him as blood trickled from his entrance at the forceful intrusion. He whimpered, screaming again when the other's length shifted harshly in him and ripped him more. "S-stop...STOP...STOP IT!!!" he cried, tears streaming down his face and mixing with the blood on his cheek as he struggled instinctively, trying to push him away.

Otogi hit him again, slashing his other cheek, and also bruising his eye, "Shut UP, slave." He pounded into harder with each thrust, feeling the utmost pleasure, though he caused the blonde pain.

~*~

Seto ran fast. He knew something was wrong. His rose was hurting and he picked up the pace.

'Don't worry, Jou, I'm on my way.'

Jou cried out again, sobbing and choking on his tears as he was assaulted, both cheeks smeared with blood and tears as his eye turned black and blue and started to swell shut. "Please..." he sobbed, his body in agony with each movement from the other. A choked scream left him as the movements became more fierce and hard, making him feel like he was being ripped in two. "O-O-Otogi...stop...!"

"I said SHUT UP!" He bruised the other eye and made one big, deep gash down the other's chest, before licking the blood away, still pumping harder. He didn't stop until he climaxed, and then climbed off the blonde, dressed and walked out, leaving the blonde cold, naked, still chained, and scared.

~*~

Seto reached the shop, yanking on the doors.

"Damn it! Locked...hmmm." He dug through his pockets. He found a paper-clip(Isn't that convenient...) and began picking the lock.

'I swear, Otogi, if you've hurt him...I'll kill you.'

Jou whimpered as he lay there, seed, blood and tears marring his flesh as he trembled in terror and pain. So much pain..his other eye started to swell shut, and with how forcefully he was taken, it was no surprise when he lost consciousness, slumping bonelessly to the bed as his head fell to the side.

Otogi smiled, viciously, before he heard the alarm go off. He growled and looked around. He looked at the tv screens in front of him. Seeing the familiar form of his rival for Jou's affection, he growled and stood, knife still in hand.

"Today's the day your life ends, Kaiba..."

He walked out.

~*~

Seto looked around. Where could Jou be. If only he had some sort of sign. He sensed someone behind him and moved quickly as Otogi lashed at him.

"Otogi! Where's Jou?!" Seto growled.

"That's not your concern. Now leave, if you wish to live!" Otogi said, just as fiercely

"Not without Jou."

"Then you've made the biggest mistake of your life."

Otogi lashed again, but Seto moved only quick enough to save his heart from being struck and was struck in the shoulder, yelling in pain, and punching the other.

Otogi stumbled back.

Seto pulled the knife from his shoulder and held it to Otogi's neck, asking, fiercely yet quietly, "Where. Is. Jou."

Otogi struggled with his breath and let out a choked, "Upstairs. Second room down. Now, big man, kill me if your not a coward."

Seto scoffed, "I'm not like that anymore." And he hit him in the back of the head with the hilt of the knife, knocking him out, before heading upstairs.

Still chained, trembling with fear and pain, Jou coughed as he woozily came to, still bleeding from both ends. Bloodloss made his head spin, made his judgement off as he heard footsteps. He whimpered weakly and tried to curl into a ball as much as the chains let him. 'He...he's coming back...no more pain...please...' was all his mind could muster as his eyes opened to swelled slits.

Seto opened the door, slowly, and winced. He ran over, picking the locks on the chains and undoing them. He scooped the blonde into his arms, "Gods, what has he done to you..."

"Don't..." The blond's voice was reed-thin as he coughed again and groaned, trying to pull away. "D-Don't hurt me..please.." he whispered, shaking so hard, his teeth clattered together.

Seto rocked the blonde, soothing him, "I would never hurt you, koi, it's me...Seto...snap out of it..." He kissed the boy's forehead, "Please my desert rose, come back to me..."

It took a few moments of instinctive fear whimpering and trying to pull away, still trembling before.. "S...Seto..?" Jou whispered hesitantly, wincing as his body ached with each slight movement. "Is..it really you..?"

"Yes, my rose, it's me...it's alright...you're safe now...why did you let Otogi do this to you?" Seto said, tearing pieces of his own clothing to try and tend to the wounds on his lvoer as best he could.

"He..." Tears filled the swelled eyes again, streaming down the bloodied cheeks. "He said..he would k...kill you if I didn't...come with him..I'm sorry.." he whispered, bowing his head. "D...didn't want you hurt.."

Seto chuckled, softly, "You have a knack for protecting me, Jou-koi." Seto held him closer, "I thought it was suppose to be the other way around..."

Jou whimpered, wincing again. "He...he isn't gonna...come back..is he..?"

"If he knows what's good for him, then no, he isn't." Seto reassured, stroking Jou's back, "We should get you to the hospital, that's a very deep gash," He gestured toward the gash on his chest, " and it's still bleeding...come on." He picked him up, and headed out the door, down the stairs and out of the shop. Fortunately, Domino General Hospital was just a block away. He started treading toward it, at a very fast pace.

Tired, weak, aching and bleeding, Jou remained quiet against him, clinging vaguely to him before it all got to be too much. His hand slid from his grip on Seto's shirt, sagging against him and falling back into that numb blackness again.

Seto did not look down at his love nor did he slow his pace. He knew--or at least hoped--Jou was still okay, as he treaded into the hospital and up to a nurse, "Please, this boy needs help, quickly!"

The nurse glanced up at the voice, then gasped at the condition of the blond, her eyes widening. She quickly paged a doctor, then drew out papers to sign as a doctor and several nurses came with a stretcher.

Seto set Jou on the stretcher, kissing his forehead, before taking the papers and beginning to fill them out, glancing up, in the direction they were taking his love.

******

A doctor soon came out of the OR, glancing up to the waiting room. "Kaiba Seto?" he called out politely.

Seto glanced up, "Hai? Is he alright? Is he going to be okay?!"

"One question at a time, Kaiba-san. Katsuya is stablized, but he lost quite a bit of blood. That, and his injuries, have made it touch and go for a while." He sighed, pushing a hand through his dark hair. "He's very weak, and it'll take a while for him to heal."

"He'll....be okay, right? I mean, there were no serious injuries? No internal injuries?" Seto asked, worry dripping out with every word.

"Well...that's what the touch and go is for..he was hurt badly when he was assaulted. There was much damage to his inner walls and he almost started to hemorrhage." The doctor's brow furrowed. "He's not out of the woods. Twenty-four hours ought to make the difference."

Seto ran a hand through his thick brown hair, and turned back to the doctor, "May I see him?"

"Hai." The doctor nodded. "He's still sedated, so he's sleeping deeply. You'll not disturb him."

Seto nodded, walking into the room where his desert rose slept. Seto felt a single tear streak his cheek at the sight of his love. Wounded and pained, emotionally and physically. And Seto felt as if there had been more he could have done. He sat next to the bed, taking Jou's hand and forcing himself not to cry. It hurt so much to see him like this. So much.

A slight whimper left the blond, and he shifted, turning his head slightly to the side. Both closed eyelids were now an ugly black-blue-yellow, and his cheeks and chest were bandaged as the free hand tightened on the blankets, then loosened, whimpering again.

Seto pushed a few blonde strands from Jou's bruised and beaten face. His own shoulder had been bandaged by one of the nurses but his wound could not compare to that of his lover's wounds. Seto tried his hardest not to cry but the tears fell, as if by there own will. He had just barely found his rose again and he could lose him again, just as quickly. He rested his head on Jou's stomach, the tears that fell, freely and quickly, dampening the blankets there.

Jou murmured, then shifted again, his hand landing in Seto's hair, as if to say, "there, there, it's alright, don't cry." And even if he wasn't awake, maybe some deep part of him somewhere wanted to comfort the brunette against him.

Seto sat up, sniffling, quietly, and looked at Jou. He sighed, sadly, when he saw that the boy was not awake and laid his head back on Jou's stomach, falling asleep, quickly.

******

Some time later, a hand landed on the CEO's shoulder, shaking lightly to stir him from his sleep.

Seto looked up, to see who'd awaken him from his peaceful sleep.

"Kaiba-san.." A nurse whispered softly. "It's after visiting hours. You should head baome,ome, get some sleep. You can come back in the morning."

Seto shook his head, "I'm not leaving him, I'll glue myself to the chair if I have to." He mumbled, groggily.

"Kaiba-san, you won't be any use to him if you fall asleep on him when he wakens in the morning. You should come back refreshed, he'll need your support."

"NO! Don't you understand, I'm not going to leave him alone!" Seto snapped.

The nurse jumped in surprise, scooting back as hers wis widened. "I'm only doing my job, Kaiba-san."

"I won't leave him. Your job is done. NOW LEAVE!" Seto growled, standing, rage surging in his eyes.

The nurse gasped, startled, then backtracked out of there, scurrying back out the door and closing it quickly behind her.

Seto sat back in his chair, and stared at the blonde for a moment. He caressed one scarred cheek, a single tear falling from his cerulean eyes, and he sighed.

'Please live, my rose, I don't want to lose you again...'

******

The steady beep beep beep of the heart monitor was the first thing that registered to the worn blond as he slowly, painfully opened his eyes come mid-morning. He blinked a few times sluggishly, wetting dry lips, then glanced around carefully. White walls, bed, curtains to window with the sun shining in, machines, IV, Seto sleeping on his stomach--

He blinked in surprise as his ab tho thoughts came to a standstill, then looked again, his eyes widening. Or as much as they could widen, with their bruised state.

'Seto...'

He tried to speak his name, but his lips and his head didn't want to agree to speak, and he stuttered off, then licked his lips dryly, then sighed. He reached out slowly, not wanting to jar himself, as his body felt blissfully numb at the moment, and rested his hand on the brown hair gently.

Seto stirred, his blue eyes fluttering open as he looked up at Jou, hoping this time the gesture was done in a conscious state. He was relieved to see it was and he sat up, hugging the blonde, gently.

"Jou, I was so worried about you, rose."

Jou blushed faintly and nuzzled against him. "Sorry f'r worrying you..." he croaked, then licked his lips again. "Thirsty..feel like I've eaten my pillow..any water..?"

"I'll call for the nurse to get you some." He pressed the call button. A nurse entered. Seto told her what Jou wanted and she exited. She re-entered with a cup of water and handed it to the blonde, smiled and exited again.

"Thanks.." Jou smiled a little at Seto, then tilted the cup to his lips, his hands shaking slightly.

Seto put his hand under the cup, stabalizing it. He chuckled a bit when Jou spilled a little and kissed his nose.

Jou blushed at the motion, giving another small smile. He wrapped his fingers around the longer ones and pulled him closer, twining their fingers together.

Seto smiled at him and leaned forward, gently, ever so gently, kissing the bruised lips, and stroking his cheek with his thumb.

It wasn't enough. Jou whimpered softly and tugged him closer, burying his face against his chest as his arm wound around his waist.

Seto pulled back slightly, shaking his head, "No, Jou, you're still wounded, and I don't want to hurt you...but I promise the day you released, will be the night of your life." He winked at the blonde and hugged him, "I'm so glad you're okay."

Jou blushed and nuzzled against him. "I'll...be okay.." he whispered, closing his eyes. "Just..hold me? Don't let go..?" His eyes opened again, glancing pleadingly at him.

"Nothing could tear us apart....not again....never again...I promise." Seto held him closer and tighter, but did not hold to tight, in fright of hurting him even more.

"Seto.." Jou whispered, burying his cheek lightly against his shoulder as silent tears soaked his shirt, burying against him as if to hide from the world, trembling slightly.

"Shhh, it's okay, rose..." Seto smiled, "You're so cute...like a little puppy...so that will be my new nickname for you...my inu...no...my KOInu." He kissed the top of his head, "Don't cry, koinu...everything will be okay now...."

"Promise..?" Jou whispered, nuzzling against him and curling up against him like the puppy Seto thought him, glancing up at him sadly, although hopefully as tears dripped from the dark eyes.

"Promise forever, Katsuya Jounouchi." Seto whispered in his ear, nipping at the lobe.

Jou blushed and nuzzled against him more, turning his head to kiss his neck. "I love you, Seto.." he replied softly, hugging him carefully.

"And I you, Jounouchi..." Seto said, softly, returning the affectionate hug.

Jou sighed shakily, then yawned, leaning back again to curl up in the bed slowly. "Tired.." he murmured, his eyes indeed having a sleepy, dazed look to them, most likely from the painkillers in his body. "You'll....stay, Seto..?" he asked, yawning again.

Seto laughed, "Of course, you should have seen me last night...the nurse couldn't move me for anything."

Jou smiled, flushing. "You didn't leave, even then? But...your job...Mokuba..."

"I called Mokuba earlier that night telling him I wouldn't be home and he's at Yuugi's and my job can wait because my love for you is more important."

The dark eyes fluttered, opening, then closing again before opening again. "You're...too good...for me..." he murmured, before his eyes closed again, this time staying closed as his breaths evened out.

Seto smiled and mumbled to the beautiful sleeping form, "No...it is the other way around, my koinu..."

******

The doctor looked over the chart, pursing his lips thoughtfully as he glanced at the blond laying in bed a few days later. "You're out of danger, and recovering nicely. There's still some damage, but that'll heal up, with time. In the meantime, you're to stay in bed, wherever you go when you're released. That means no walking, and no school. Which I'm sure you don't mind a bit." he replied dryly, grinning.

Jou gave a small smile, nodding. "So...that means if I wanna get something to eat..or use the bathroom.."

"Have someone carry you. You are NOT to leave the bed under any circumstances."

Jou nodded in understanding, then flushed, looking down at his hands. "And the...nightmares..?" "Y "Young man, you were assaulted. Of course you would have nightmares. But that, like your wounds, will fade in time, but you'll still carry the scars."

"Physically and emotionally." Seto mumbled. He, too, had those kind of scars.

"Exactly." The doctor replied, nodding. "The scars will remain, but you'll be able to move on." He winked at Jou. "It helps when you have someone by your side that loves you."

Jou blushed furiously and suddenly found the bedcovers very interesting.

Seto smiled, "Yes he does." Seto leaned over, pressing a kiss to his temple.

The doctor smiled when he saw the blond lean against the brunette, and chuckled softly. It was pleasing to see that he hadn't turned away his lover for what had happened to him, he needed him. He tapped a pencil against his tablet, then glanced up. "So, Kaiba-san, are you taking him to your home, or what? The plans haven't been given to the records."

"I am taking him home, I do not trust his father as much as I do not trust Ryuuji Otogi." Seto said, solemnly.

"Ah." Scratch scratch went the pencil as it scribbled in the notes, then nodded approvingly. "Then he should be ready to be released come noontime, alright?"

Seto nodded and caressed Jou's arm, lovingly, kissing his temple again, "That's fine." He said, not taking his eyes from his koinu.

The doctor smiled again, then took his leave, noting he wasn't needed, or even noticed, anymore. He slipped out the door as Jou purred lightly and closed his eyes, leaning into him and his touch.

"Mmm..Seto..." he sighed, leaning against his shoulder.

Seto rested his own head on top of the blonde one, sighing contentedly, "Mokuba is excited to see you...he's really gotten use to the fact that you come around...sort of like....another brother..." Seto's eyes gleamed, mischieviously.

Jou blushed and smiled in delight at the thought of it. "Mokuba's a good kid..I like being around him, same as I like being around you, only you're in a different way, of course.." he babbled a little, blushing again.

"Hmmm, I'll take that as a compliment, koinu." The brunette replied, chuckling a little at his lover's red face.

The blond 'meep'ed and went redder before weakly smacking at his arm. "Oh, hush, you.." he replied, his eyes twinkling.

"Theres my old Jounouchi." Seto said, tapping his pup's nose.

He reached up and took Seto's hand in his, curling his smaller fingers into the larger one. "Seto...? I really wanna say thanks for staying with me...I don't know if I could've gotten through this without you.."

"Of course....what did you expect me to do, koinu? Just go 'Oh hetaintainted now, I don't want him.' I would never do something like that....I love you." He kissed the hand and then his lips, softly, gently.

He HAD been thinking that...he'd been hurt, abused, by the rival of the past that had put such hurt in him, one couldn't help but think that they would be unattractive to the one they cared for after being used so cruelly. But with the touches, Jou melted against him, sighing and returning the kiss as he tilted his head into him, twining their fingers together.

Seto looked up at Jou, his eyes unwavering and showing truth and love in them. He hesitantly asked, "Umm.....I know we still have a few years of school left..and I know you are trying to move slow in our relationship and everything...but I don't want to lose you again...so, do you think...when you are ready of course...maybe...you'd...marry me."

Jou couldn't help it. His jaw, simply put, dropped as his eyes widened in shock. 'Did...did he just...?' A blush stole across the blond's features as he stared at him in a sort of wonderment, awe, disbelief and love warring in the dark eyes.

Seto's lower lip twitched, along with his right eye, waiting, nervously for an answer

"Oh...oh!" Jou breathed, realized, belatedly, that he was waiting for an answer. He blushed in embarrassment as he closed his jaw, then hugged him gently in face of tackling him to the bed. "I'm...shocked to say the least..but...there's nothing I'd love better, Seto..."

Seto sighed in relief and hugged the boy tight, "I'm so glad."

"Seto.." Tears came to his eyes as he nuzzled against him. "What did I ever do to deserve you? In both lives? I was just me...and you...you're always shining like a sapphire in the sun."

"No no no, my golden rose is the one glimmering in the sun." Seto replied, ruffling Jou's hair, "And I'm the one who does not deserve him."

"Seto...!" He did tackle him this time, kissing wit with such passion and sweetness, his toes curled under the covers at the emotions flowing through him.

"Oomph!" Seto kissed him back, his arms wrapped tighly around him. Ah, how he loved his koinu. His everything.

"Aishiteru, Seto..." Jou whispered against his lips as his eyes opened to gaze at him adoringly. "Aishiteru zutto.."

"Aishiteru, zutto, koinu." Seto whispered back, smiling at his love. This was love. This was foreve
\
"I think I may gag."

Jou stiffened at the voice, his eyes immediately widening in terror. He did not want to look. He did not want to see..oh gods...please don't let it be him...

"What, mutt, no welcoming kiss hello?"

Jou whimpered and proceeded to hide *behind* Seto, quavering as the black-haired teen shifted from the shardows, smirking.

"Such a way to say hello...tch, Jou, you're losing your manners." Otogi drawled, balancing on the balls of his feet.

Seto raised one arm, shielding Jou, "Get. Out."

"No." Otogi grinned. "This is just a warning to the both of you. You really think you can be rid of me? Just when you're happy and content...I'll show up again. Until I get what I want."

Seto growled at the ink-haired boy.

"I said GET OUT!!" He barked.

A smirk purely derived of madness, Otogi grinned and sauntered out, leaving a shaking blond cowering behind Seto as tiny frightened whimpers left the boy.

Seto ove over, slamming the door shut, then stalked over to the blonde, scooping him into his arms and rocking him back and forth.

\won\won't hurt you anymore...I promise...it's alright...calm down..."

Jou hiccuped and buried into his arms, hiding his face against him as he trembled, clinging onto him.
Seto stroked his back, gently, humming a small tune in his ear and trying to calm him. His poor puppy was scared and he felt there was nothing he could do about it.

Jou whimpered softly and nuzzled against him, pressing against him as he sagged into his warmth, curling into his arms and looking like a frightened child as his bare feet dangled and curled together like his hands around Seto.

"My poor puppy, please don't be frightened, I swear I won't let him hurt you." Seto whispered in his ear.

"P-promise..?" Jou asked, trembling as he nuzzled tighter against him, looking timidly up at him.

"ise,ise, forever." Seto smiled and kissed his forehead.

"Seto..." Jou whispered, hugging him as he nuzzled his cheek against him, sighing softly as his arms twined around his neck.

Seto placed a long finger under his chin, tilting it up and catching the other's lips, softly, as if sealing his promise to the other.


A soft purr left the blond as he curled up against him and shyly kissing him back as his hands tangled into his hair. He leaned trustingly into his touch, arching his head slightly to meet his lips.

Seto's lips moved against the other's and he deepened the kiss. His arms wrapped tighter around the blonde's waist, as one sneaked up his shirt, carressing the smooth skin there.

Jou shivered lightly at the ghost-like touch, surprised he wasn't scared of anyone touching him....but then, Seto's touch was *vastly* different than....-His-....had been. He couldn't be afraid of such a gentle touch that slid so softly across his skin. He purred lightly, his skin goosebumping with the light touch.

Seto broke the earth shattering kiss, but did not remove his hands.

He simply spoke, "I love you."

It was a mere whisper, like it was most of the time, but it was true, as it had been for countless centuries.

Jou blushed as he gazed up at him, raising a hand to caress his cheek gently. "I love you, too.." he whispered back, giving a small smile.

"Good." Seto teased, resting his head on top of the blonde's.

Jou's smile widened as he gave a soft chuckle, nuzzling against him as he gave a quiet yawn. His fingers slid back down and gripped at Seto's shirt absently, as if afraid he would vanish.

Seto kissed his forehead, urging him softly to sleep.

"Don't leave..?" Jou asked quietly, leaning his head against his chest.

"I told you, they couldn't move me for anything," Seto began, "And, you can be sure, I'll put up a fight if they try." He chuckled and laid Jou down in the bed, pulling the white blankets over him, "Now go to sleep."

Jou smiled sleepily, clinging to one hand as he pulled the blankets over him. He gave a kawaii little yawn, looking like a sleepy puppy, then closed his eyes, twining his fingers with his. "Kay..." he murmured.

"Good pup." He placed a small kiss on his handm before leaning back in the chair he was in and dozing off, himself.

******

A soft whimpering sound broke the quiet of the room, the blond in the bed twitching and shifting, before curling up into a ball. He whimpered again and straightened out, tossing and turning as his hands moved out weakly. "No...stop...don't...please...." he mumbled, his brows furrowing under his bangs as his peaceful sleep was tainted with nightmares.

Now, Seth and his current day form, Seto, had never been a heavy sleeper. In fact, he barely slept before Katsu'yaa'ra or Jou came into his life. Stille sle slightest sound could wake him up, which was probably why he'd already woken up 4 times that night.

Now, for the fifth time, he awoke to the sound of his puppy mumbling. He watched him toss and turn, and his blue eyes took on a look of conce

rn and pity. He scooped the blonde into his arms and rocked him, trying to calm him.

A low, keening whimper left the shivering form, and again, his hand found Seto's shirt, holding onto him for dear life as he battled his inner demons. His face turned into Seto's chest as he quaked like a leaf in the breeze.

Seto did not know what to do. He couldn't just wake him up, but he didn't want him to be afraid. There was nothing to be afraid of anymore. Seto was going to make sure of it. He just continued to rock the boy, hoping he would calm down soon enough.

Finally, the dream broke, and he gave a soft cry, jerkin Sin Seto's arms before awakening. He blinked around a few times, his eyes darting around the sha as as if afraid his nightmares lingered there. He swallowed hard and leaned into the comforting warmth against him, leaning his cheek against his chest. "Seto..."

"Yes, koinu, it's me." Seto whispered, softly, "Having dreams about--him--again?"

"Hai..." Jou whispered, shivering lightly. "Gomen for waking you.." By that time, he had a sizable portion of shirt clutched in his hand.

"It's alright, I don't sleep well, anyway." Seto replied, twirling some blonde hair around his finger. He loved Jou's hair. So soft and silky. He could sit there for hours and play with it. He smiled a little.

Jou shivered again and leaned into his hand, smiling at his gesture as the tendril of hair curled around the finger as he himself was curled around Seto.

Seto's hands ran through his hair several times, as his other hand, wrapped gently around Jou's waist. He chuckled, wrapping two or three tendrils around two or three of his fingers.

"Having fun..?" Jou questioned teasingly, blushing lightly as he watched him play with his hair.

"Oh yes, loads." Seto answered, with slight sarcasm. Only slight. He braided a few small pieces and then began to laugh, as he realized that's what he'd been doing the whole time, and many various places on Jou's head were in braids.
:
Jou blinked as he felt one braid, then flushed in embarrassment. "Fun indeed. I look like a girl, now.."

Seto'sd eyes were dripping in tears of mirth, "Yes but a very," He laughed again, "sexy girl...with a very nice," And again, "body." His chair was leaning back, as he laughed, He'd placed Jou back on the bed just in time, as in that moment, his chair fell back.

"Itai..."

Jou yelped, then glanced down at him over the bed in worry. "You okay, Seto?"

Seto sat up, rubbing his head, "Yes, I didn't hurt anything..." He made a face, "...except my pride."

Jou bit his lip, then snickered a little before laughing, the action smoothing out the worry and tension lines as his eyes crinkled with mirth. "And the chair." he cracked, laughing again.

"Oh ha ha, how about I just leave those braids in your hair for the rest of the time, wonder how the nurses would react to THAT, ne?" Seto shot back.

Jou blushed, then laughed, stickiis tis tongue out at him, looking like himself again. "S your fault."

Seto grinned and stood, kissing his nose. From the looks of it, his Jou was back.

"Anything...else...hurt?" Jou asked innocently, though his hands were far from innocent as they slid around his rear and squeezed playfully. Mischieviousness oozed from the dark eyes as a rather hentai grin lit his face.

Seto gasped, "Oooh, you little..." He'd never seen Jou become so domineering, even just a little. He liked it.

Jou grinned and whistled innocently, such an expression on his face that one wouldn't have been surprised if a halo had appeared over his head---followed by devil horns and a tail. "Nani?" he asked innocently enough, though his smile and actions were far from innocent.

"I love you, and you know that, but the day I let you be the dominant one, is the day ponies fly," Seto blinked, "Nightmares as a child...don't ask."

Jou snorted a laugh, then gave a mock-pout before hugging him. "Just having a little fun...the..." He snickered. "The look on yer face.."

Seto rolled his blue eyes skyward and hugged his little pup, "Gods, I love you, I don't know what I'd do without you..."

"Go slowly insane...?" Jou quipped, nuzzling against him. "That or kill yourself with paperwork from KaibaCorp."

"Yes, really." Seto chuckled and nuzzled back, "But I do have you, and so I am not insane...much...and I don't work as much anymore."

"Thank gods for that..I'm sure Mokuba's thrilled for that.." Jou smiled. "And I have you...I don't feel so..lonely anymore. I mean...my family life is the pits, the only bright spot is my friends, even though I feel alone in the crowd, you know..?"

"Be glad you have friends." Seto said, "And yes, Mokuba is very happy...he also misses you, and has been worried about you."

"He's a good kid. Back then, and now. Does...he remember anything of the past?" Jou asked curiously.

"I haven't asked him." Seto said, glancing around the room. He looked at Jou again, remembering something he'd noticed when he had to change Jou's unconscious form into the hospital gown, "Jou, where did you get those other bruises...the ones that look old?"

The dark eyes widened, before glancing down, his fingers fisting into the bed covers as he quieted. He wasn't sure if Seto would believe they were old scars from fights with bullies, but he had to try. "....Just old scars from my days with the gang...you know..against rival gangs and stuff.." he murmured, not glancing up at him.

"Jounouchi..." Seto said, "Alright...now tell me the truth, where did those bruises come from? And please be honest, I couldn't bear it if you didn't feel you could trust me."

Jou drew a soft hiss of breath as his plan failed, his shoulders drooping slightly. He picked abently at the blanket, still not looking up. "....My dad...they came from him..." he replied quietly, closing his eyes.

"Oh...my koinu..." He hugged him, tightly, "I know how you feel...my adopted father did that to me...when I tried to protect my brother from him..."

Jou nuzzled quietly against him, resting a hand on Seto's chest. "I'm sorry.." he whispered earnestly. "I didn't know..dad...he's not like he used to be. When we were all together...before the divorce...he was the best dad a boy could hope for. But after..I guess he grew bitter. He drinks a lot...blames me for the
problems...that's what the old wounds are from..he's...always finding something to blame me for..." He whimpered softly, closing his eyes again as tears streaked his cheeks. "What did I do wrong that he hates me so much..?" he asked sadly.

"You didn't do anything wrong, pup, some parents just do not know how to treat their children..." Seto hugged him tighter.


"Seto.." Jou sniffled lightly, nuzzling against him as he wrapped his arms around him just as tightly. "Think he'll ever go back to the way I remember him..?" he murmured softly.

"I don't know, koi..."Seto said, "I wish I could help you get him back, but all I can do is give you love...it's all I have to offer."

"And that's all I could ever ask for from you.." Jou murmured softly, pressing a kiss to his neck. "All I could ever want."


Seto moaned, "That's..." He arched his neck for the blonde, "...good to hear..."

Jou chuckled softly, nipping the skin lightly. "Sounds like I found a sensitive spot on you..." he murmured. He grinned against him, delighted to find this new spot on his still-new lover.

Seto let his eyes slip closed, and moaned again.

He felt a burst of laughter bubble up in him at the other's reaction, but instead, he grinned, a flashing of white teeth before he leant his head to the bared neck and suckled lightly, nibbling against him.

Seto bit his lip and groaned, "Jou...ah..."

Jou purred nst nst him, leaning his hands against Seto's legs to prop himself as he traced teasing kisses against his neck, sliding along the slim column slowly. "Mmm...'s it time t' go home yet...?" he murmured with a soft chuckle.

"Gods, I hope so...." Seto moaned.

Jou smirked and leaned back, kissing his nose. "You're cute when you're flustered."

"You know what I said about the ponies and the dominating thing...right...? Well, I think a pony just flew by your window." Seto groaned.

Jou laughed outright at that nearly having to wipe away tears of mirth as it came to him just how flustered he'd made the other. He nearly collapsed in giggles, laughing in delight as he sagged against Seto.

Seto gave a little laugh too. He had no idea Jou had such an..effect on him.

Jou grinned up at him, his eyes shining once again with fire, life and love. Somehow, just what Seto had done had brought him back to life again. He was still scared, deep down, of facing Otogi...but that didn't seem to matter as much, now. It was as if Seto had just melted his worry and fear away with his presence. "I'll have to keep that in mind.." he teased, gazing up at him adoringly.

"You do that..." Seto said. He gazed into the brown eyes, once again filled with the fire he'd always adored seeing. He smiled, "I've got oinuoinu back...."

Jou blushed, smiling back at him. "You always had him. Guess he just got lost in the fear..." He nuzzled against him. "It's like you were a beacon to me..reaching out your hand to me to pull me out of the dark.."
"I'll always be here, Jou." Seto answered. He smiled and kissed him quickly, "I'll buzz the nurse to see if you can leave yet..." He'd checked the clock and noticed they'd b een distracting each other all morning.
"Kay.." Jou murmured, smiling at him as he stretched his arms and leaned back, watching him. He turned his head when a nurse came in to Seto's summons.

"Yes, I'd like to know when Jounouchi can be released." Seto asked.

The nurse smiled pleasantly. "All you need to do is sign release papers, and he's to to be released whenever you're ready." she replied, chuckling when Jou breamed at the news.

"Good." Seto grinned, "The papers, if you please."

"Sure thing." she replied, heading back out for the release papers, then coming back in with them and a pen. "Here you go."

Seto signed the forms and handed them to the nurse, "And here you go."

"Arigato." The nurse grinned at Jou. "Take care of him, ne? He's been a sweet addition to the patients." She giggled at Jou's blush and gave a little friendly wave before heading back out with the papers.

Seto grinned, "Need some help out of bed, my koinu?"

He held a hand out for him.

Jou smiled at him and took his hand, carefully sliding out of bed, but his legs were still wobbly, and he tripped into Seto instead, landing against his chest instead as he gave a slight wince from his still-healing body. "Still shaky, I guess.." he murmured sheepishly, then reached behind him to pull the gap in his gown closed with an embarrassed flush.

Seto took that hand in his own, as his other slipped down his back and grasped the bared buttocks, with a grin.

"You must remember...I can be dominant, too."

Jou squeaked and shivered, his eyes falling shut as his back arched lightly. "L-like..I can ever forget...?" he murmured softly.

"You best not. The puppy must always obey his master, even if his master gives him the upper-hand sometimes..." Seto whispered, seductively.

Jou shivered again, the words causing heat to pool to lower parts of his body at the whispered, seductive tone. "Seto.." he whimpered softly, leaning heavily into him as his legs threatened to collapse on him.

"Not yet, love, but soon." He picked up the boys clothes and ushered him into the bathroom, "Change." Then he walked out.

Jou pouted at that, but slid off the gown and slid on his shirts jes jeans were another matter, however. With...being a little stirred up in front...and a little sore in back, a slight twinge bothering him as he went to raise his legs to slide into his jeans. He bit his lip, then stuck his head out the door. "Um..a little help here...?"

Seto looked up and walked over to him, "What is it?"

"It...kinda hurts to get the jeans on.." he murmured, flushing. "I can't do it alone.."

"Poor puppy..." Seto walked over to him.

He sat him on his lap, andked ked his jeans. He slipped one pant leg over his leg and the other over the other.

"Now stand up, I'm sure you can do the rest."

"Hai..." Jou whispered, standing up slowly. "Thanks, Seto.." He managed to wriggle up the jeans, wincing slightly at each movement. He gave a tired sigh when he finished, wiping his forehead absently as little beads of sweat dotted his forehead from the workout.

"You're welcome, koinu, come on, I've already called a ride." Seto held his hand out to the boy.

Jou took his hand, then blushed lightly in embarrassment as he gazed up at him."Seto...I...I hate to ask...but.." His blush turned redder. "Could you carry me...?"

Seto shook his head and picked the blonde up, "It would be my pleasure..."

Jou blushed deeper and smiled at him, leaning his head against his shoulder. He was grateful for Seto indulging him, it put a strain on his legs to hold his weight and stay still when it hurt to just move. "Thanks.." he murmured, smiling adoringly at him.

"Anytime..." Seto whispered, carrying him out to the limousine. He set him down inside and climbed inside himself.

Jou snuggled up against him, then leaned up to press a kiss against his cheek tenderly.

Seto's cheeks turned a light pink and he chuckled.

The blond cocked his head a little consideringly, then grinned, poking at one cheek lightly with a fingertip, then purring lightly as he nuzzled against him.

Seto blinked and nuzzled him back. He planted a kiss on the blonde hair.

"Mmm..." Jou sighed, laughing softly under his breath. "You look adorable blushing.."

Seto blushed brighter, "Well, I wouldn't know..." He murmured.

"Maybe not..but I love it.." Jou smiled, leaning his head against his shoulder. "Just like I love you."

Seto grinned, "And I love you."

Jou smiled and wrapped his arms around him, pulling on to lto lay out on the seat with him. His hand rested on brunbrunette's chest as he leaned up to kiss him tenderly, then resting his head lightly against his shoulder, content enough to just gaze at him adoringly.

Seto smiled and pulled him closer. He couldn't wait to get him home and make sweet love to him.

Jou purred as the strong arms wrapped around him, making him feel safe and wanted. He sighed softly and nuzzled against him, his heart tripping over itself in cntedntedness. He wanted to return the touch..wanted to feel his heart beat just as his was. Almost shyly, he unbuttoned the shirt buttons of the brunette, just enough to trail his lips lightly over his chest, placing kisses across the smooth skin like cool, sweet water.

Seto moaned, his back arching, slightly. Gods, this boy in his arms made him feel perfect. Made hima man who would travel to the ends of the earth just to keep him safe. And he would, too.

Jou smiled against his skin, laving tongtongue lightly over him before trailing more kisses over him and nipping lightly at a nipple when his lips brushed it.

Seto's head lulled back against the seat, as he breathed the blonde's name. Giving the control to him was different. But he wasn't complaining.

Blond hair tickled the other as he nuzzled his cheek against him, then let his hands stroke along him wonderingly. "You're so beautiful." he whispered in awe as his fingers trailed over muscles and planes, along his nipples as he memorized the soft skin with his fingers.

"Far from, koinu...you are the beautiful one...you always have....been." Seto tried to keep himself composed, but even having his hands on his skin was enough to drive him wild.

Jou blushed in pleasure as he gazed at him. "And you always made--make--me feel like that. You're beautiful as well, to me.." And he set out to prove his words as his lips settled over him, worshipping him with his touches.

Seto groaned again, "J-Jou...please..." Seto had never felt this way before, so many feelings....so many different feelings. He felt ready to explode.

"Mmm..?" Jou murmured, laving his tongue lightly, tenderly over a nipple before raising his head. "Please what...do you want me to stop?" he murmured, looking a bit disappointed. "If you don't like it.."

"N-no..I do...please...m-more..." Seto pleaded, his back arching again.

Jou blushed as he gazed at him, biting his lip lightly before he shyly nodded and lowered his head again, continuing his slow, leisurely pathng tng the brunette's skin as he let his touch show him just how much he treasured him, without words. His hands splayed lightly across his chest, then glided down to his stomach once he'd unbuttoned the shirt more, his mouth follg thg the path of his fingers on the lithe form. Never missing a single inch of skin, he nuzzled and nibbled, stroked and soothed.

"Nnn" Seto groaned, his fingers finding their way into the blonde hair that he loved so much. His back arched and he writhed at the touches.

Jou mewled softly and arched into the touch, his tongue slipping out and tracing along the silken flesh as his hands spanned around the slim waist, treating him as if he were a treasure...a beautiful cerulean-eyed
Seto's breath became more ragid and he pleaded for more. Of course, at the worst time possible, the limousine began to slow down.

Giving a little pout, Jou reluctantly eased back from Seto, nuzzling him apologetically.

Seto shook his head, smiling, silently saying it was alright, as he rebuttoned his shirt. He stepped out of the car, helping his koinu out.

Jou held onto his hand, a little flushed himself as he slid out, a little wince marring his face as he stood. He wrapped his arm around Seto's waist, his head leaning against his arm.

"Would you like me to carry you, inu?" Seto questioned.

"Um..." Jou blushed in embarrassment. "If it's not too much trouble..?"

"Not at all." He picked the blonde up, treading toward the large house. He reached the top of the steps and set the blonde down, only, to open the door, then picked him back up. He quickened his pace up to his bedroom, and kicked the door closed as he entered, depositing the blonde on the bed, and getting on with him.


Jou nuzzled against him gratefully, sighing as he cuddled against him. He blushed again when he noted where they were heading, but didn't have any protests, merely smiling at him when he joined him on the bed. "Carrying me around...feel like some sort of bride carried by the groom over the threshhold.." he cracked, grinning as he trailed his fingers over Seto's chin.

"Maybe someday, koinu...maybe someday very soon, I hope." Seto answered, taking the hand and kissing it.

Jou, simply put, melted at the gesture as he smiled. He leaned up and kissed his chin tenderly, touched at his words.

Seto smiled and laid back, "Now...may I ask you to continue what you started, koinu...your master is getting very impatient." He flashed a grin.

Jou laughed and nodded somewhat sheepishly, nuzzling closer to him as he placed a gentle kiss on the other's lips. "And the puppy is willing to obey.." he teased, winking.

"Good." Seto replied. He laid back and relaxed, waiting for his puppy to show him what he'd show his puppy so many times in the past.

Jou blushed as he awkwardly pushed an errant strand of hair behind his ear. As before, he unbuttoned Seto's shirt, only this time, he pushed it and the trench he wore off, letting the material pool alongside the bed. He gazed at him in awe, wondering how he'd been blessed to have the attentions and love of a near-god, before lowering his head and pressing kisses from his shoulder to his chest, moving slowly, leisurely along the pale, smooth, muscled skin.

Seto 'mmm'ed and let his head lull backwards. His hands, once again, found the locks of blonde hair.

Jou purred lightly at the touch, leaning into his hands as he continued to graze a slow-burning path against the other, his own hands sliding slowly along his stomach.

"M-more! Please...!" Seto felt his lower areas reacting to Jou's assault.

Jou blushed lightly at his words, but gave him what he wanted, his teeth nipping lightly at the skin as his lips latched around one pearl-like bud and suckled gently as his fingers slid carefully across the muscles of his stomach.

Seto was being drawn closer to completely losing his mind, as his lover assaulted his chest and stomach.

He nipped lightly at him, then followed the path over to the twin and paid it the same attention before sliding down his stomach once again, following the path of his fingers.

Seto sueezed his eyes closed, his lover's name escaping his lips in a mere whisper.

Jou purred lightly, trailing his tongue, over his stomach, as he curved his tongue into his navel and back out as his hands tickled across his skin.

"Ah...!!" Seto arched again, his hands yanking slightly on the blonde strands.

Jou yelped lightly in surprise at the pull to his hair, but continued onward, trailing his tongue over him as his teeth grazed at his skin.

Seto panted, pleading for more, and writhed under each fiery touch.

Jou blushed again at his pleading for more, then hesitantly reached for his pants, glancing up at him carefully as he paused in his movements.

"D-do it...please..." His erecton had been constricted for quite some time now, and he needed Jou...needed.

Still blushing, Jou nodded and bent to the task, nimble fingers unbuttoning the button and undoing the pants before sliding them carefully down his hips.

Seto help him slip the pants off, along with his boxers, his erection, slowly being freed from its constricted state.

Jou blushed furiously when Seto's body literally sprang to life as he drew the last of the material down and away. He swallowed, eyeing him hesitantly as he laid the clothes aside.

Seto opened his eyes and stared at the blonde.

"Jou...if you feel uncomfortable you do not have to do this..."

"I...well, I..." Jou stammered a little as he glanced at him. "I just...don't want to disappoint you..I mean, you're so much more experienced than me.."

Seto laughed, lightly, "I've had as many partners in this life, as you have, Jou...count 'em...one." Seto grinned, "I just know how to please my pup..."

Jou blushed as red as he could go, smiling hesitantly.

"I'm still learning.."

"It's alright, pup, keep going, you'll know if I'm enjoying something or not." He winked and nodded to the blonde.

" 'Kay..." Jou murmured, then took a shaky breath and lowered his head again, pressing kisses to his stomach before trailing lower carefully. He purposely skipped the area that he was sure the other wanted him at, sliding down his legs and the inside of his thighs instead, blushing as he glimpsed the steel-like flesh twitching out of the corner of his eye.

Seto groaned and whimpered a small, "Tease..." His brow was sweaty and his chesnut hair was sticking to it and the back of his neck. His breath was shallow. His arousal throbbed for attention from the sweet lips that were causing torture to every other place on his body.

Jou chuckled lightly, pleased at his reaction as he nipped the skin lightly in answer.His tongue slid out to caress the soft skin, his hands stroking his legs slowly as he continued his ministrations.

Seto's eyes squeezed shut, and he bit his lip, stifling a mewl. He, silently, pleaded for more. His need was great and he feared he'd explode if it was not heeded.

Still hesitant and unsure of himself, Jou slid carefully upwards, drawing his tongue hesitantly over the tip of the steel-like softness.

Seto gasped, bucking at the sudden feel of warmth on his arousal. His breathing became harder and he mewled.

Jou squeaked in surprise at his movement, blushing at his reaction. He shifted to accord him, then put his hands on his hips gently, but firmly as he slowly licked at him again, watching him as he tilted eyeseyes up.

"J-Jou...!" Seto writhed, trying to buck and failing from Jou's grip on him. He panted again, and pleaded, "Please...m-more...Jou..hnn..."

Jou steeled himself, then hesitantly took him into his mouth, wrapping his lips around him carefully as

Seto tensed, and continued to try and buck again, a tiny cry escaping his lips, his body slick with sweat.

Jou blushed at the warm flesh against his mouth, then slowly took more, suckling timidly at him as his lips and tongue and teeth worked around him.

Seto panted, his hands yanking at the delicate hair, his eyes squeezing shut. He moaned, loudly, "Oh...! Oohhhh....!!"

The blond whimpered lightly, then moved more on him, gaining a bit more confidence as his tongue wrapped around the length and stroked before nipping lightly.

"Oh...g-gods...!" Seto felt a tightness in his stomach. His head lulled back, pushing Jou's head closer, begging for more of the incredible warmth.

Jou groaned lightly, taking all he could as he worked on him carefully, using all he could to give him the utmost pleasure.He grazed his teeth agianst him before suckling again, harder than before.

Seto was close. He could feel his stomach tightening with every action, ready to snap at any moment. He gasped and mewled, feeling the others teeth upon him.

Jou could feel the body tensing under his fingers, knew that the end wasn't far off. Blushing at the thought of that, he threw everything into his ministrations. Teeth grazed, nipped, nibbled, suckled, tongue stroked and coiled around him, lips wrapped hotly around him, drawing down on him.

Seto cried out, hot white light flashing in front of his face, as the tensing in his stomach snapped, releasing everything into his lover's mouth.

Jou squeaked lightly as his mouth was flooded with the essense of him, but took it all, shivering in pleasure as he closed his eyes and purred as he took all he had to give and more.

Seto panted, opening his eyes finally. He lifted his head, and stared at the blonde.

"Thank you."

Jou blushed, smiling at him. "Y...you're welcome.." he murmured, licking his lips to lap up the remainder of Seto's taste on his lips.

Seto pulled Jou to him, kissing him, soundly, and tasting himself on his lips. He hugged him tight, kissing his forehead, "Thank you so much, for everything...and I mean everything...that has ever happened between us."

Jou purred and nuzzled into his arms, head resting against his chest. "I could say the very same thing, Seto.." he whispered, turning his head to kiss the dampened skin.

Seto sighed and nuzzled him back, resting his head on top of his.


Jou smiled at the arms wrapped around him, the head leaning on his. "Ever tell ya how much I love ya...?"


"I believe so..." Seto grinned, "...but you better remind me..." He kissed the base of his neck "...just in case."


"Mmm...don't think I could ever find the words..not the right ones.." Jou whispered, leaning into him.


"Well, we'll just stick to 'I love you' then." Seto winked, before whispering a soft, 'I love you,' in the blonde's ear.

Jou smiled, nuzzling into his arms. "I love you, too.." he replied, pressing a kiss against his neck contentedly.

Seto 'mmm'ed, and put his hand behind Jou's head gently, laying his head against his shoulder, "Sleep, koinu..."

The blond purred lightly, snuggling up against him as he hugged him close. "Love you...Ryu-chan.." he murmured, closing his eyes.

Seto pushed some blonde hair out of the sleeping face, "And I love you, my koinu.”

~*~

R/R!!!!