[ Seto Kaiba is nervous. He doesn't have too many outward tells unless you know him well, but under close observation his hair is slightly mussed and his footfalls are a little heavier than usual.
It's their first birthday as a couple and after what the dance had turned out to be, he's determined to get it right this time. He makes his way to Yugi's dormitory unannounced, hands neatly folded behind his back. ]
Yugi?
[ His voice pitches up just a little, and a small smile crosses his face when he sees him. ]
[ yugi is sitting on his bed, one leg hanging over the edge and the other drawn to his chest. he's reading through some of his textbooks in an attempt to get a better handle on some of the higher level spells when kaiba walks in. he looks up, his eyes immediately lighting up. ]
[ Really, Yugi. Studying. On your birthday. How utterly responsible. Kaiba knew he liked you for a reason. He feels a small surge of pride as he leans on the bedpost. ]
For years I was obsessed with learning everything about you in my efforts to defeat you, Yugi. Do you really think I'd forget what day it is?
[ The room's blissfully empty at the moment, so he steps forward and leans down for a kiss. ]
[ he knows what day it is, but that doesn't mean he's got to put his life on pause. h- he probably should, but he's only been at this for a half an hour, so that's not so bad. ]
[ he snaps the book shut when kaiba approaches, holding it in is lap and listening as he speaks. his face colors and he looks aside, giving a laugh, and missing when kaiba leans down to kiss him. he's quick though, reaching for is shirt and grabbing hold to keep him in place. ]
Thank you, Kaiba. [ he gives him another kiss. ] Are you my present?
[ Kaiba wore one of his tight muscle shirts for this occasion, so he can definitely feel Yugi's knuckles. Kaiba's pounding heart might even be obvious. Damnit. His boyfriend's good. His kisses are thorough, befitting the occasion. ]
Hah. As if I'd be that cheap. I may not have the entirety of the city's resources at my disposal here, but...I did find something.
[ He brings out a small box wrapped in black and silver paper. Inside is a simple black and red chain bracelet with a single red jewel framed by black wings---it's a clear Gandora motif. He opts to explain when it's opened. ]
It's commissioned, but I used a protective glyph on the central gem---I would never give you something like that sight unseen, so I had to test it for the last week. No negative effects thus far.
[ He keeps his voice on an even clip, but someone's a little nervous, fingers fidgeting in his fists. He doesn't do this kind of thing, usually. ]
Are you kidding me, Kaiba? [ he chuckles against his lips, because how can he be so serious right now! it's cute though, since he can tell he's also pretty nervous about all this. ] I can't think of a better gift.
[ he takes the box and carefully opens it to reveal the bracelet inside. he smiles, admiring it, but then immediately taking it out of the box and offering it to kaiba to help him put it on. ] A protection glyph? [ aw, that's really sweet. ] So far. [ he jokes, though he wants to ease some of kaiba's worry, so he sits up on his knees and gives him another kiss, slower than the last, practiced and careful, and oh so full of feeling. ]
Thank you, Kaiba, this was very thoughtful of you. I'll never take it off.
[ Kaiba carefully takes Yugi's hand, giving it a warm squeeze before he shifts his fingers to lock the bracelet in place. He lifts his hand to admire it, but soon enough he's wrapping his arms around Yugi's back and kissing him just as eagerly.
After a few moments of relief, he pulls back just enough to talk. ]
There's more in that box, you know.
[ One of those wings on the bracelet will fit perfectly into a slot on the inside of the box, revealing a compartment containing a silver key and a carefully rolled note. Inside is a long, obtuse series of clues---including specific swirls in the wrapping paper that indicate a time, a series of intricate marks that indicate a room number, and a carving of a sparrow that indicates it's for the Red Sparrow Inn. ]
[ he doesn't have much time to admire the bracelet before kaiba is pulling him into a hug and giving him a kiss, one that he immediately finds himself melting into. this was an amazing gift and he's definitely going to cherish it. ] More? Kaiba, you didn't have to do more...
[ when the wing unlocks the other part of the box he starts unfurling the note and looking at everything written and scribbled on it. ]
[ oh my! ]
[ he looks up to kaiba and gives a laugh, taking a seat on the bed as he starts studying the marks. ] I guess I know what I'll be doing for the next few minutes. [ he's kidding. this looks complicated, so he expects it to take him at least an hour to figure them all out. maybe even a bit longer! ] I better get started, hm?
Yes, but you're one of the most brilliant minds I've ever known. You'll have it done in no time.
[ He leans down to drop another kiss on Yugi's forehead. ]
It's time for me to go. I have some arrangements to make for later...but I'll meet you at the end of the trail. That's your motivation.
[ With that, he reluctantly turns to leave...with maybe a little sway in his step. Got to throw in a little more motivation, after all...
The end of the trail is indeed the room he's rented at the inn. It's a fairly nice single room, well equipped with everything they'll need for a night: comfortable clothes and pajamas, a snack tray, soft sheets...he's had a little more time to prepare this time.
There's a plush king bed, and on top of it is Yugi's present. It's Kaiba, of course, wearing only his tight black trousers and a small silver-blue collar around his neck. He's attached a bright blue bow to the collar, feeling cheeky. He's propped up on the pillows, stretching in invitation, and as the door opens he looks up with a gentle smile. ]
[ he wonders what kaiba has in store for him. no doubt it's going to be good, since this is kaiba and he almost always goes above and beyond and then some! not going to lie, he's excited, so he follows the trail of clues, only having trouble once or twice, but easily overcoming the challenges kaiba's set for him. ]
[ when he reaches the room he hesitates just outside, taking a deep breath to ready himself, because he's pretty sure he knows what may be behind the door. he pushes it open to find kaiba sprawled out on the bed in nothing but a pair of black pants and a collar. he feels his face brighten as he looks him over, giving a broken laugh and having to look aside, because he's embarrassed. ]
K- Kaiba. [ he steps inside quickly, shutting the door so nobody else has a chance to see. ] It looks like you're already partially, ah, unwrapped. [ he smiles warmly, approaching the bed and taking a knee on it. ] You did all this for me?
[ Kaiba's been here for about an hour. He spent some of that plating the cake and arranging the room, but for most of the time he's been stretching this way and that, quietly thinking through what's to come. He has absolute faith that Yugi will make it here, but when he does, what comes next...he hasn't thought that all the way through.
He's relieved when he arrives and steps inside. Oh, Yugi. He lazily lifts himself into a sitting position, stretching and flexing just a little gratuitously as he settles into a relaxed pose. There's a gleam of triumph and pride in his eyes as he looks up at his boyfriend. His next words are dry and deadpan, but he can't keep the humor out of his expression. ]
No, I clearly did it because I enjoy modeling.
[A pause. He does enjoy it, but he laughs gently.]
Of course I did. But you guessed my game too early, so I had to make you work a little for it. And that also means you deserve a reward.
[ He moves up onto his knees, coming within arm's reach. He smooths his fingers over Yugi's bright cheek and leans in for a kiss, though he pauses to whisper over his lips first. ]
... [ kaiba. kaiba plz. he tries not to make his staring too obvious, but, well, kaiba's being so damn shameless right now that it's next to impossible not to stare! ] I mean, I wouldn't doubt that, Kaiba. Look at you. I bet you just love showing off. Oh, wait, what am I saying... of course you do. You wouldn't wear those tight clothes for nothing. [ not that he's complaining! ]
King of Games, remember~ [ he chuckles and crawls a bit closer, leaning into the touch and smiling through the kiss. ] K- Kaiba. [ he turns a few shades darker, because he's not sure how far he's willing to go, but he supposes he'll find out. ]
[ he presses down into kaiba, sliding a hand along the chiseled contours of his chest. ] Showoff. [ he's only kidding. ] Kiss me again, Kaiba.
[ Kaiba looks absolutely delighted. He folds his hands behind his head for a moment. ]
So you noticed. Not that I'm especially concerned with my appearance over my abilities and reputation, but...
[ He moves in closer, gathering his boyfriend close and sighing happily at the heated brush of hands on his muscles. ]
I do love to catch the eye. Yours in particular.
[ He obediently leans in for another kiss, fingers curling at the base of Yugi's neck and sliding up into his hair. He's pressed against him, sharing that delicious warmth. He kisses him long and deep and sure, and he's flushed pink but pleased when he finally pulls back a little, resting his forehead against Yugi's. ]
There's even more to your gift, Yugi, so you'll have to let me talk for a minute. Think you can manage?
[ He brushes their noses together with a small laugh. ]
[ he makes a face at kaiba, because he might not think he cares about his appearance as much as the others, but his reputation had a lot to do with his appearance. he couldn't look disheveled and demand and command the same presence he does looking like, well, he normally does. ] H- Heh, well, you've got my undivided attention, Kaiba, congrats~ [ he teases. ]
[ he kisses him again and again and- oh. he can do that. h- haha. with a delighted little smile he moves to sit closely to kaiba, leaning into him and laying his head on his bare chest. he scoots impossibly closer when he tries to set his ear over his head, eyes falling shut as he listens to its steady beating. ]
... [ there's that word again. yugi doesn't seem to be as triggered as he had been the last time, and instead just replies with a hum. ] I'm listening~
[ And he's caught. Kaiba's fondness grows as Yugi comes close, and he has to try not to laugh when his boyfriend's impossible hair tickles his skin.
This time he doesn't seem to realize he's let it slip, as entranced as he is, so he presses on with a quiet sigh. ]
You and me. Sometimes I can still hardly believe it...when I think back to when I first saw you in class. The boy who liked games. If I hadn't been so twisted into nakedly seeking revenge by that point, we would've had a much shorter road.
Then you were the boy who constantly kicked my ass at games. That last duel in the dome, to face Aigami...you won. You knew that, right? You are the king. I'm still going to keep challenging you, so don't rest on your laurels, but you should be proud of yourself and stand tall.
[ He sighs happily and drops a kiss on his spikes. ]
And that's not even the most impressive thing about you. The most impressive thing by far is your kind heart.
[ Yugi's pressed too close for him to lay a hand over it, so he'll settle it on his back, holding Yugi closer to his own heart. ]
The business world values cold blood. It thrives on greed and selfishness, and even without his influence I likely would have been driven down that path...but as a child, I wanted to use the company to make things better for children like myself and Mokuba. Over time, I lost sight of it, and when we first met I marveled at what I perceived as weakness to be exploited, but...
[ He squeezes Yugi close. ]
You never let the world's cruelty warp your spirit. You always believed, even when the world gave you no reason to. And that makes you the strongest man I've ever known...even to the point that I believe again, if only a little. Everyone here can see it...hah, I've been told more than once that other students give me a chance solely because anyone you like can't be completely terrible. And even I can feel it. I've lost some of my edge.
[ Kaiba laughs against his boyfriend's hair, hand curled against his back. ]
You opened my heart in a way I didn't think anyone ever could, Yugi. You're extraordinary, and I won't stop saying it until it sinks in.
[ oh, wow, this is... this is a lot. he listens as kaiba more or less pours his head out, and though yugi disagrees with some things ( kicking his ass 8\ ) he keeps quiet throughout the entire thing, just as he'd asked. it'll do him no good to interrupt not besides. ]
[ when he's finally done yugi moves back so he can get a good look at kaiba. he reaches for his cheek, cupping it in hand and leaning in to drop a chaste kiss to his lips. ]
You put me on a pedestal, Kaiba, but I'm not that special. I'm just a regular person, and that's okay. To know that I have made such an impact on your life is all I need to know. You've done the same to me, you know, and I wouldn't be as strong as I am now if not for you constantly pushing me [ and atem. ] to be the best. [ and then there was during that duel with aigami when kaiba sacrificed himself, so that he could finish the duel and end the madness aigami was spreading. he'll never forget that, even if it had been for him. ]
You haven't lost anything, Kaiba. I think you're stronger now than you've ever been. [ he moves closer, nestling back against him as he cups his cheek and guides him closer for another kiss. ] You mean so much to me and I'm lucky we've had a chance to get this close.
[ Kaiba's gaze softens when Yugi takes his cheek in hand. He smiles into the kiss, then nuzzles against his palm with a coy little smile as he listens. His eyes are so captivating...oh, right, he's speaking. Kaiba swears he's listening. ]
You're right. I'm a better man because I've known you, and I'm grateful that I have such a...
[ He leans back and gives Yugi a playful once-over, flicking his chin up as they move in for another kiss. ]
K- Kaiba! [ he sets a hand to his face to avoid the kiss, because he can't help but chuckle at that. ] You're just full of compliments tonight, mm? [ but the hand inevitably drops and yugi leans in to take another kiss. ] Let's agree to disagree, that we're both lucky to have each other. I... don't know if this would have happened if we hadn't been brought here, but I like to think it might have... [ he kisses him again, this time much slower. ] I love you too, Kaiba.
[ He just wants to make you feel special, Yugi. He hums happily and stays close, thoroughly enjoying this moment. He's so, so grateful that they've fallen into each other's orbit. The kiss is so nice that he pulls back slowly and lingers close, reluctant to part.
But then that word registers. His eyes widen and he lifts a hand to Yugi's cheek. Kaiba's sure his own face must be turning pink by now. But why now, Yugi, what did he...oh. Oh, right. He had said it again, and Yugi hadn't pushed him away. He'd let him in.
Kaiba's expression becomes almost unrecognizably gentle. His eyes shine bright. The lightness and warmth surging through him lift his heart in a way he never thought possible. His voice is jagged with emotion when he finally speaks again. ]
Yugi...
[ His fingers delicately trace Yugi's cheek, nudging it to the side just enough that he can kiss the other. Then his dimple. Earlobe. Nose. Jawline. Other cheek. Brow. Forehead. He's going to kiss every available spot on his face with a pleased little grin. ]
I'm supposed to be the one giving you gifts. But you've made me happier than I can ever say.
6/4: it's a certain smol bf's birthday
It's their first birthday as a couple and after what the dance had turned out to be, he's determined to get it right this time. He makes his way to Yugi's dormitory unannounced, hands neatly folded behind his back. ]
Yugi?
[ His voice pitches up just a little, and a small smile crosses his face when he sees him. ]
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Hey Kaiba! What, ah, what brings you here?
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For years I was obsessed with learning everything about you in my efforts to defeat you, Yugi. Do you really think I'd forget what day it is?
[ The room's blissfully empty at the moment, so he steps forward and leans down for a kiss. ]
Happy birthday, Yugi.
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[ he snaps the book shut when kaiba approaches, holding it in is lap and listening as he speaks. his face colors and he looks aside, giving a laugh, and missing when kaiba leans down to kiss him. he's quick though, reaching for is shirt and grabbing hold to keep him in place. ]
Thank you, Kaiba. [ he gives him another kiss. ] Are you my present?
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Hah. As if I'd be that cheap. I may not have the entirety of the city's resources at my disposal here, but...I did find something.
[ He brings out a small box wrapped in black and silver paper. Inside is a simple black and red chain bracelet with a single red jewel framed by black wings---it's a clear Gandora motif. He opts to explain when it's opened. ]
It's commissioned, but I used a protective glyph on the central gem---I would never give you something like that sight unseen, so I had to test it for the last week. No negative effects thus far.
[ He keeps his voice on an even clip, but someone's a little nervous, fingers fidgeting in his fists. He doesn't do this kind of thing, usually. ]
no subject
[ he takes the box and carefully opens it to reveal the bracelet inside. he smiles, admiring it, but then immediately taking it out of the box and offering it to kaiba to help him put it on. ] A protection glyph? [ aw, that's really sweet. ] So far. [ he jokes, though he wants to ease some of kaiba's worry, so he sits up on his knees and gives him another kiss, slower than the last, practiced and careful, and oh so full of feeling. ]
Thank you, Kaiba, this was very thoughtful of you. I'll never take it off.
no subject
[ Kaiba carefully takes Yugi's hand, giving it a warm squeeze before he shifts his fingers to lock the bracelet in place. He lifts his hand to admire it, but soon enough he's wrapping his arms around Yugi's back and kissing him just as eagerly.
After a few moments of relief, he pulls back just enough to talk. ]
There's more in that box, you know.
[ One of those wings on the bracelet will fit perfectly into a slot on the inside of the box, revealing a compartment containing a silver key and a carefully rolled note. Inside is a long, obtuse series of clues---including specific swirls in the wrapping paper that indicate a time, a series of intricate marks that indicate a room number, and a carving of a sparrow that indicates it's for the Red Sparrow Inn. ]
I thought you might like a treasure hunt too.
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[ when the wing unlocks the other part of the box he starts unfurling the note and looking at everything written and scribbled on it. ]
[ oh my! ]
[ he looks up to kaiba and gives a laugh, taking a seat on the bed as he starts studying the marks. ] I guess I know what I'll be doing for the next few minutes. [ he's kidding. this looks complicated, so he expects it to take him at least an hour to figure them all out. maybe even a bit longer! ] I better get started, hm?
no subject
[ He leans down to drop another kiss on Yugi's forehead. ]
It's time for me to go. I have some arrangements to make for later...but I'll meet you at the end of the trail. That's your motivation.
[ With that, he reluctantly turns to leave...with maybe a little sway in his step. Got to throw in a little more motivation, after all...
The end of the trail is indeed the room he's rented at the inn. It's a fairly nice single room, well equipped with everything they'll need for a night: comfortable clothes and pajamas, a snack tray, soft sheets...he's had a little more time to prepare this time.
There's a plush king bed, and on top of it is Yugi's present. It's Kaiba, of course, wearing only his tight black trousers and a small silver-blue collar around his neck. He's attached a bright blue bow to the collar, feeling cheeky. He's propped up on the pillows, stretching in invitation, and as the door opens he looks up with a gentle smile. ]
Too clever as always, Yugi.
no subject
[ when he reaches the room he hesitates just outside, taking a deep breath to ready himself, because he's pretty sure he knows what may be behind the door. he pushes it open to find kaiba sprawled out on the bed in nothing but a pair of black pants and a collar. he feels his face brighten as he looks him over, giving a broken laugh and having to look aside, because he's embarrassed. ]
K- Kaiba. [ he steps inside quickly, shutting the door so nobody else has a chance to see. ] It looks like you're already partially, ah, unwrapped. [ he smiles warmly, approaching the bed and taking a knee on it. ] You did all this for me?
no subject
He's relieved when he arrives and steps inside. Oh, Yugi. He lazily lifts himself into a sitting position, stretching and flexing just a little gratuitously as he settles into a relaxed pose. There's a gleam of triumph and pride in his eyes as he looks up at his boyfriend. His next words are dry and deadpan, but he can't keep the humor out of his expression. ]
No, I clearly did it because I enjoy modeling.
[A pause. He does enjoy it, but he laughs gently.]
Of course I did. But you guessed my game too early, so I had to make you work a little for it. And that also means you deserve a reward.
[ He moves up onto his knees, coming within arm's reach. He smooths his fingers over Yugi's bright cheek and leans in for a kiss, though he pauses to whisper over his lips first. ]
Happy birthday, Yugi. I'm all yours.
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King of Games, remember~ [ he chuckles and crawls a bit closer, leaning into the touch and smiling through the kiss. ] K- Kaiba. [ he turns a few shades darker, because he's not sure how far he's willing to go, but he supposes he'll find out. ]
[ he presses down into kaiba, sliding a hand along the chiseled contours of his chest. ] Showoff. [ he's only kidding. ] Kiss me again, Kaiba.
no subject
So you noticed. Not that I'm especially concerned with my appearance over my abilities and reputation, but...
[ He moves in closer, gathering his boyfriend close and sighing happily at the heated brush of hands on his muscles. ]
I do love to catch the eye. Yours in particular.
[ He obediently leans in for another kiss, fingers curling at the base of Yugi's neck and sliding up into his hair. He's pressed against him, sharing that delicious warmth. He kisses him long and deep and sure, and he's flushed pink but pleased when he finally pulls back a little, resting his forehead against Yugi's. ]
There's even more to your gift, Yugi, so you'll have to let me talk for a minute. Think you can manage?
[ He brushes their noses together with a small laugh. ]
I want to tell you just how much I love you.
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[ he kisses him again and again and- oh. he can do that. h- haha. with a delighted little smile he moves to sit closely to kaiba, leaning into him and laying his head on his bare chest. he scoots impossibly closer when he tries to set his ear over his head, eyes falling shut as he listens to its steady beating. ]
... [ there's that word again. yugi doesn't seem to be as triggered as he had been the last time, and instead just replies with a hum. ] I'm listening~
no subject
This time he doesn't seem to realize he's let it slip, as entranced as he is, so he presses on with a quiet sigh. ]
You and me. Sometimes I can still hardly believe it...when I think back to when I first saw you in class. The boy who liked games. If I hadn't been so twisted into nakedly seeking revenge by that point, we would've had a much shorter road.
Then you were the boy who constantly kicked my ass at games. That last duel in the dome, to face Aigami...you won. You knew that, right? You are the king. I'm still going to keep challenging you, so don't rest on your laurels, but you should be proud of yourself and stand tall.
[ He sighs happily and drops a kiss on his spikes. ]
And that's not even the most impressive thing about you. The most impressive thing by far is your kind heart.
[ Yugi's pressed too close for him to lay a hand over it, so he'll settle it on his back, holding Yugi closer to his own heart. ]
The business world values cold blood. It thrives on greed and selfishness, and even without his influence I likely would have been driven down that path...but as a child, I wanted to use the company to make things better for children like myself and Mokuba. Over time, I lost sight of it, and when we first met I marveled at what I perceived as weakness to be exploited, but...
[ He squeezes Yugi close. ]
You never let the world's cruelty warp your spirit. You always believed, even when the world gave you no reason to. And that makes you the strongest man I've ever known...even to the point that I believe again, if only a little. Everyone here can see it...hah, I've been told more than once that other students give me a chance solely because anyone you like can't be completely terrible. And even I can feel it. I've lost some of my edge.
[ Kaiba laughs against his boyfriend's hair, hand curled against his back. ]
You opened my heart in a way I didn't think anyone ever could, Yugi. You're extraordinary, and I won't stop saying it until it sinks in.
no subject
[ when he's finally done yugi moves back so he can get a good look at kaiba. he reaches for his cheek, cupping it in hand and leaning in to drop a chaste kiss to his lips. ]
You put me on a pedestal, Kaiba, but I'm not that special. I'm just a regular person, and that's okay. To know that I have made such an impact on your life is all I need to know. You've done the same to me, you know, and I wouldn't be as strong as I am now if not for you constantly pushing me [ and atem. ] to be the best. [ and then there was during that duel with aigami when kaiba sacrificed himself, so that he could finish the duel and end the madness aigami was spreading. he'll never forget that, even if it had been for him. ]
You haven't lost anything, Kaiba. I think you're stronger now than you've ever been. [ he moves closer, nestling back against him as he cups his cheek and guides him closer for another kiss. ] You mean so much to me and I'm lucky we've had a chance to get this close.
no subject
You're right. I'm a better man because I've known you, and I'm grateful that I have such a...
[ He leans back and gives Yugi a playful once-over, flicking his chin up as they move in for another kiss. ]
Handsome boyfriend. And modest to boot.
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no subject
[ He just wants to make you feel special, Yugi. He hums happily and stays close, thoroughly enjoying this moment. He's so, so grateful that they've fallen into each other's orbit. The kiss is so nice that he pulls back slowly and lingers close, reluctant to part.
But then that word registers. His eyes widen and he lifts a hand to Yugi's cheek. Kaiba's sure his own face must be turning pink by now. But why now, Yugi, what did he...oh. Oh, right. He had said it again, and Yugi hadn't pushed him away. He'd let him in.
Kaiba's expression becomes almost unrecognizably gentle. His eyes shine bright. The lightness and warmth surging through him lift his heart in a way he never thought possible. His voice is jagged with emotion when he finally speaks again. ]
Yugi...
[ His fingers delicately trace Yugi's cheek, nudging it to the side just enough that he can kiss the other. Then his dimple. Earlobe. Nose. Jawline. Other cheek. Brow. Forehead. He's going to kiss every available spot on his face with a pleased little grin. ]
I'm supposed to be the one giving you gifts. But you've made me happier than I can ever say.