lost all hope
"-I'M not as weak as you portray me to be."
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Chapter aLL
Discontinued
Prologue
“I thought you said you would try to be more involved with your classes!” the principal yelled at Ryou as he sat in his office after being sent out of his classroom for the second time today.
Ryou just snorted at the man and looked away thinking about why he was here. He really didn’t care much for classes, he only really came to school for two reasons. To get away from the hell chamber he was unfortunate enough to call home and to see his friends, Marik, Malik, Yami & Yugi. They had been friends since Ryou moved to Blackwater when he was 7, but as of late they only see each other in school, with the five friends being busy with their own problems and the two couples spending time together. Marik and Malik always had something to do or somewhere to go. Yugi and Yami rarely left the house and that left Ryou alone outside of school. He himself had no other half, no one to care for and no family either, he was his only living relative and school was his only outlet to his life at home. He lived for the couple hours a day in which he could spend with his friends and not have a care in the world, talking, joking and generally having fun.
“Ryou!” the principal yelled at him drawing his mind out of its protective field of thoughts.
“What?” he asked still refusing to look at the man who only wished for his well-being. “If I see you in here again I will suspend you for a week understood? That way you’re bound to sleep.”
Ryou paled at the thought of spending the whole week by himself in that… that cage, with that man. If he spent longer than five minutes in that bruits presence he would surely be beaten. He looked back at the principal, fright, dread and sadness shining in his sea green depths. He thought he saw a flicker of guilt cross the principals face but when nothing else happened, he sighed deeply.
“Alright.” He whispered and stood to leave.
“Ryou?” he stopped when he heard his name and glanced sideways at the principal, his emotions still swirling in the void of his eyes. “I wish you would open up to one of us, or at least see the school councillor. It’s obvious you have problems at home but why won’t you let anyone help you?”
Ryou looked at the desperate expression on the man’s face and grunted in annoyance. He continued towards the door, he opened it and stopped just through the threshold, hand still on the handle.
“I’m not as weak as you portray me to be.” He whispered tightening his grip in the handle. “I’ll be 18 next week then it will all be over, so just let me be… I can take care of myself.”
He was just about to walk again when he heard the principal’s worried voice.
“I’ve gotten quite a few reports from worried class mates of yours. Some claiming that they have seen a new mar or bruise on you in the locker rooms. The most recent report, a caved scar spelling the word ‘Whore’. I can’t assume that they are telling the truth with what they saw and I also can’t say that they are lying. Which brings the thought that if they are not lying, someone else had to have marred your skin as you certainly would not have been able to reach.”
“I will repeat.” Ryou whispered before glaring and growling low. “Keep to yourself and leave me alone.”
Just as he left the room and a worried principal, the bell signalling home time rung throughout the school. He ran through the flooding hallways, out through the main doors and in the direction of his safe haven. The park he spent his afternoons and the better part of his weekends at. He slowed to a dawdle, hands in pockets, eyes watching his feet below him as he approached the opening where his usual bench sat. Just as it came into view he froze where he was, sitting at his bench was himself… No, the being sitting there was older but only by a few months, a year at most. He seemed a lot rougher then Ryou, his hair wasn’t as tame and his build was more masculine then feminine like his own. Before Ryou could approach the boy, he had stood up and started to leave. Ryou watched him go and walked over to his bench, sitting down heavily on the wooden chair. He then let his head drop back as he breathed in deep, the scent of dragon’s blood flooded his senses and he sighed deeply. He spent the afternoon sitting there watching the people in the park play around carefree, wishing with all his might that he could be one of them, but he yelped jumping to his feet and taking off at a sprint when he noticed the sun setting. His teeth gnawed away at his bottom lip when he realised just how late he was. He skidded to a stop and leapt up onto the porch missing the two steps completely. A violent shudder ran down his spine as he heard the TV on through the front door. He placed his hand on the door knob, hesitating slightly before slowly pulling the door open. He released a yelp as he was grabbed roughly by the collar and pulled in, his only escape closing behind him.
Chapter 1
Ryou released a yelp as he felt his body crush up against the closest wall and a bigger body press up against him, the discovered male’s arousal grinding into his backside.
“You’re late!” The male’s voice growled low. “You’ve kept me waiting… In this condition no less.” He ground his arousal against Ryou to get his point across.
Ryou shuttered at the disgusting feeling and yelped again as he was pushed from the wall onto his hands and knees.
“I’m sorry master, I was at the park and lost track of time.” He whimpered and the days held back tears streamed down his pale cheeks.
The male pulled both his and Ryou’s pants down in one swift movement, then ground his arousal into Ryou’s backside again.
“And for that you let me get worked up waiting for your pretty little ass to get home. You will have to be punished.” The man rubbed his thumb over the carving on Ryou’s right hip just above his cheek. “Hum… How will I punish you this time?”
“I don’t know master, but I promise you, it won’t happen again.” Ryou pleaded but the man just laughed at him shifting his tip across Ryou’s tight ring of muscle.
“I know it won’t…” He grunted, then moaned lightly for what was to come. He ran his hand up Ryou’s sides, stroking them almost gently. “You are beginning to look a little big for my liking.” He mused shifting his hand from Ryou’s side to his slightly built stomach and Ryou whimpered, he knew all too well what it meant. “Your punishment will be no food for the next week.” Ryou winced as the man gripped his hips roughly, running his calloused hands over them. He wasn’t gaining weight, he was building up his muscles in a failed attempt to protect his fragile body.
“Yes master…” He answered and the man behind him chuckled again.
“Good little whore.” He said almost sickeningly sweet. “Now stay still.”
Ryou knew it was just to get him to lower his guard and he braced himself, willing his mind elsewhere in an attempt to numb the oncoming pain. He shrieked in agony as the man behind him drove into him with one swift thrust of his hips, burying to the hilt.
“God, it doesn’t matter how many times I take you, you still feel so darn good.” He moaned as Ryou continued to cry out in pain.
Giving him no time to adjust, not even the slightest. The man withdrew from Ryou almost completely, only to drive back in, each thrust gaining in speed and force. Ryou yelped with each stroke, tears pooling around his hands as he felt blood run down his thighs. He duly noted the man moaning as he felt the man’s arousal glide into him with growing ease, The tearing feeling was starting to dull to a sharp sting signalling that he was teetering on the edge of consciousness and would fall any minute into a pain free sleep leaving his body to be abused. He dropped to his elbows, starting to feel lightheaded and almost screamed in frustration when he felt the man push in deep and freeze. A whimper fell from his lips as the man circled his hips against Ryou’s backside just relishing in the heat of Ryou’s small body. Ryou growled low, the bruit was prolonging the moment as long as he could just to torture him. The pain still streaking throughout his body was making it hard for him to relax during the man’s abrupt pause. He yelped when a calloused hand took hold of his member, roughly stroking it in an attempt to bring it to life. A horrified look crossing his face just like it did every other night. He hated the man for trying to make the daily rapings intimate, it made him feel sick to his stomach. The man chuckled as he removed his hand from Ryou’s still limp member and withdrew, continuing his fast pace while stroking over Ryou’s hips. It wasn’t long till he felt the man’s strong, steady thrusts falter before regaining posture and becoming violent signalling that the experience was almost over. The man removed his left hand from Ryou's hips and yanked back on his hair moving so his lips were positioned by Ryou’s ear.
“Scream for me!” He whispered in a way that promised pain if he didn’t comply.
Ryou shook as the man’s breath and words stung his ears and released a slight whimper but otherwise didn’t respond. The man yanked back on Ryou’s hair and drove into him slightly harder than his previous thrusts and Ryou released a yelp but he knew the man wouldn’t be satisfied till he did as instructed. He lightly attempted to tug his hair from the man’s grip but the man only pulled back harder. The force pulled Ryou’s neck to an almost unnatural angle and he released a howl of agony. He heard the please chuckle from the man and then braced as he felt his torturer move at an almost frantic pace, his release approaching rapidly. Ryou sighed mentally knowing it was almost over but continued to cry out hoping that the man would respond faster if he continued to obey the man’s order that promised pain. He whimpered when he felt the man slow down wanting to prolong the moment and almost panicked. He thrust himself back and cried out as the man’s arousal reached deeper then he would have liked. Despite the pulsing pain that had become worse from the new depth, Ryou squeezed down pulling out and thrusting back down one more time, the action forcing a deep moan to erupt and he felt a couple more deep thrusts follow as the man released his seed into Ryou’s torn passage. He yelped when he felt the man pull out roughly and collapse against his fragile frame, both of them hitting the hard ground.
“Master…” Ryou choked out, he couldn’t breathe under the man’s heavy weight. “Master, I can’t breathe!”
The man stirred slightly and lifted himself off Ryou with a grunt. He stood up and staggered slightly on his feet then looked down at Ryou who had shifted up onto his hands and knees again. He kicked Ryou in the stomach and started towards the lounge room. Ryou yelped and dropped down onto his left elbow holding his stomach with his free hand. He watched the man walk into the lounge room and sighed. ‘It could have been worse.’ He then struggled to his feet, pulled up his track pants and walked into the lounge room. He watched the man drop onto the leather lounge and focus onto the TV. Not really sure what to do he slowly approached him awaiting an order.
“Slave.” He jumped hearing the man’s voice and looked down at his feet.
“Yes master?” He whispered timidly.
“Go make dinner and then go to bed.”
“Yes master…” He answered walking into the kitchen.
After discovering that they were running low on food supplies. He filled a pot with water and boiled noodles. When it was finished he placed the bowl on the dining table, washed the pot and walked back into lounge room.
“Your dinner is on the table, also master, we are running low on food. If it pleases you, tomorrow after school I can go get more, so you do not go without of cause.” He bowed and the man looked at him with an uninterested expression.
“Very well I will leave money for the food, buy yourself anything and you will regret it.” He said getting up and going into the kitchen for his dinner.
“Yes, of cause, goodnight master.” He bowed and ran towards his room.
The room was dark and had no light switch, there were shutters on the only window and in the centre of the room was a cage. Ryou sighed to himself and walked over to the cage where he curled up on the only other object in the room, a small pillow, one of his very few positions. His body shook as he lay awake, unable to sleep. He let his mind wander to the park and the slightly darker version of himself, he hoped that he could meet the boy one day, but knowing his luck he never would.
Chapter 2
He didn’t know how long he had lay there, in his cage thinking about the boy from the park. His eyes were trained on the door that lead out to the hallway. After a few minutes he got up and slowly approached it. He creaked it open and peeked outside. Light streamed through the hallway window and the man’s bedroom door was closed, meaning he’s already left for work. A sigh of relief fell from Ryou’s lips and he quickly ran down the hall and into the bathroom, shutting and locking the door behind him. He walked over to the shower, opening the glass door and turning on the water testing and adjusting the sprays temperature. He pulled off his shirt, tossing it into the stream of heaven, then proceeded to tug his track pants from his legs, wincing as the sticky material pulled at his tender skin. He stepped into the already steamy shower and dropped his pants down by his shirt, moaning as the steamy water hit his sensitive skin. He didn’t care that he would get raped and beaten if the master found out about his secret shower. It was worth it. He picked up his dirty, bloody clothing and started to scrub them clean using the strawberry scented bar of soap resting in the soap holder. He smiled slightly to himself as the blood stains came out leaving his close similar to yesterday’s condition before the encounter. After he was happy with his cloths he hung them over the edge of the bathtub and then looked down at himself. His lightly ran his fingers over the greenish-purple bruise gracing his midriff from the kick he had received after that monster had finished with him the previous night, similar but lighter bruises also graced his hips. He sighed, there was no way he could hide them this time, he had ran out of concealer and would have to wait till tomorrow before he could get any more from his friends. Not wanting to delay his leave any longer he stepped back under the spray of the of water retrieving the soap from where he had lay it after finishing his clothes. He looked down at the bar that was both a pleasure and a pain and smiled, he used the soap to cleanse his body of the daily beatings and raping but the use of the soap just triggered more punishment. He closed his eyes and stretched his neck out facing towards the ceiling letting the water run over his face and hair as he slowly started to scrub his skin as clean as possible, wincing as he cleaned his more sensitive areas that needed more scrubbing than anywhere else on his entire body. Once his body was thoroughly scrubbed he shook his wet hair about and started washing it, using his fingers to comb out any knots that looked dangerously close to needing help from scissors. When he felt clean he turned off the spray of water and stepped out to look at himself again in the mirror, in all truth he looked no different than before he got in the shower, except now he was drowned. He picked up the hand towel and dried his body relaying the now wet material back where he found it. His eyes strayed from his reflection down to his wet clothes, a shiver making its way through his body. He picked up the now clean clothes and rung them dry before relaying them on his person. Looking down at the wet clothes now adorning his slim figure he frowned and left the room.
Making his way down the hallway and out into the lounge room he located the money he had asked about last night before being dismissed. A rock was placed on top of the 50 dollar bill along with a note. He walked over and picked up the note not surprised by what it said.
“Slave, I’ve left you $50 to get ME some food, don’t even think about spending any of it on yourself. Your punishment for being late home yesterday, don’t forget, no food for a week! Disobey me and you will pay severely!
You know what to buy but I also want some beer, remember slave! Don’t you dare forget!
I expect this note, the receipt and my change when you get home! Forget anything and well, you know what will happen to you.”
He picked up the money, stuffed it, along with the note into his wet pants pocket and made his way out of the house. He walked briskly down the sidewalk only slowing down when the school was up ahead and the twin dark-skinned blonds came into view, obviously waiting out the front for him and he’s other friends.
“Morning guys.” He greeted approaching them with a smile and a limp in his step.
“Ryou.” The smaller of the two blonds smiled taking Ryou into his arms for a gentle hug.
“How are you today Ry.” The older blond asked with slight concern.
“Sore and tired like usual but I’m ok, I managed to sneak in a nice shower this morning.” Ryou answered grinning at him over the younger blonds shoulder. As he went to pull away from said blond, he felt the others grip tighten and a nose nuzzle its way into his hair. The other breathed in deep moaning his approval. “Mmmmm, strawberries.”
“Malik!” Ryou giggled swatting the other teen away as two others approached the three. The smallest of the duo pulling Ryou into a hug similar to Malik’s. “Yugi…” Ryou greeted returning the embrace, his eyes following an older version of the teen in his arms as he made his way to stand beside Marik. Ryou pulled out of his smallest friends embrace greeting his last friend with a smile. “Morning Yami.”
Yami responded with a nod in his direction but otherwise seemed distracted by something, what he couldn’t tell.
With Malik on his left, Yugi on his right and the eldest two trailing behind, Ryou and his friends entered the school gates and headed towards the doors.
“So Ryou… Did you hear the news, there’s supposed to be a new student joining your class today.” Yugi piped up.
“Really…” Ryou asked, not really interested but grateful for the break of silence.
“An Egyptian from what I’ve heard.” Malik added as they entered the school doors and headed towards their lockers. “I think his name is… Umm… Something like, Kura, or something.”
Ryou giggled at his friends choice of words and Malik mock glared at him. He pulled up by his locker, his friends following suit.
“You going to be ok squirt?” Ryou heard Marik’s distinct voice ask and he smiled reassuringly.
“Of cause. See you all at break.” He waved off the others concern and turned to his locker.
Marik nodded understandingly and he, Malik, Yugi & Yami split up to go to their own lockers and retrieve their stuff before class. Ryou pulled open his locker and retrieved the book and pen placed in its centre, leaving his locker empty. Looking at the two items in his hands he remembered the beating and raping he had received as punishment for ‘borrowing’ $4 to purchase them and smiled. It was well worth it. He closed his empty locker and headed towards his classroom. As always he was the first person, aside from the teacher to enter the room. Glancing at all the empty desks he made his way up the back and slid into his chair. Sitting in the aisle seat in the back left corner of the room he glanced down at the desk beside him up against the wall and placed his book and pen down on the unoccupied chair.
“Ryou…” He glanced up as his teachers kind, sweet voice found him and he frowned at the worried look marring the woman’s face.
“Yes miss?” he asked politely. He knew what she was going to ask him and it made him slightly annoyed but he smiled for her sake, she was only worried for his welfare after all.
“I trust you have had enough sleep to stay awake throughout today.” Her voice was soft and she was obviously being careful where she was treading with her statement.
“I have miss,” he lied, he was quiet tired not sleeping a wink last night. “I’m well rested.”
A look of relief passed over the teachers face as she nodded, then tilted her head slightly regarding her pale student.
“Also we have a new student joining us today and seems your ahead of the class I would like you to show him around.” Ryou nodded and then watched as a smile graced his teachers lips as she went back to what she was doing.
Ryou’s attention strayed from her to the clock. He watched the hand ticking with each passing second and didn’t register that his eyes were drifting shut.
Chapter 3
He was jolted awake as someone bumped his arm whilst passing him towards their own desk, the bell had obviously gone as the classroom was full of chatting students, the teacher was looking at him with worry but he only smiled and opened his book flipping to the back page and rubbing out his previous writing to fill out today’s update, he signed the passage with today’s date just as the teacher spoke up
“Alright class, settle.” She called and everyone sat down as the talking died away, all eyes to the front.
There was a knock at the door and an elderly woman entered the classroom followed by the boy from the park. Ryou’s breath hitched as he watched the boy follow the elderly woman over to the teacher. The boy glanced over the class eyes landing on Ryou with slight shock, probably because of their resemblance. The boy then looked back at the teacher. A few more whispers were passed between the teacher and the elderly woman, then everyone watched the old lady leave before turning their attention back to the teacher and new student.
“Class.” The teacher said and she motioned for the boy to approach her. “This is Bakura.” She shuffled through some papers on her desk before handing a folded piece to the boy. He glanced down at it, confirming what it was then pocketed it. “He just recently moved here from Egypt.”
Slight chatter filled the room as the boy, Bakura turned to face the class. Ignoring the shocked and excited whispers that flooded the room, his eyes trailed up the classroom and landed on Ryou again, a small smile crossing his face.
“Bakura,” The teacher called and Bakura looked back at her, “You will sit up the back beside Ryou.” She said gesturing towards the spare desk by Ryou, Bakura’s eyes once again fell on the smaller version of himself who seemed to have gained a nice blush. “Ryou will also show you around today as well. Does that sound ok with you?” She asked looking at Bakura.
“Of cause miss, I don’t have a problem.” He said as he walked up the back sliding gracefully behind Ryou’s chair, into his seat by the wall and leaned back without looking at him.
Ryou thought about saying something but went against it. He shifted in his chair slightly and winced as pain shot up his back. ‘Damn the pain killers are wearing off.’ He though as a small whimper escaped his lips. He curled against the edge of his desk, laying his head on his hands. Bakura glanced down at Ryou, noticing him wince and whimper worriedly. The teacher had started the lesson but he didn’t care to listen, he shifted and leaned down to whisper into Ryou’s ear.
“Are you alright little one?” He asked brushing a loose strand of pure white hair behind Ryou’s ear.
“I’m… I’m fine.” He whispered back grinding his teeth together as he sat back up eyes squeezed shut.
He dug his hand into his pocket and pulled out the note and money, placing it on his desk before diving back to retrieve his painkillers. Bakura watched as Ryou took two of them and discretely placed them in his mouth swallowing without any liquid help. He gagged silently as the tablets protested in his dry mouth and whimpered again trying desperately to swallow the now stuck tablets. Bakura handed him a drink which he gladly took and swallowed the liquid sighing as the tablets dislodged and slid down his neck in a flow of cordial.
“Better?” Bakura asked retrieving his bottle and Ryou nodded leaning back in his chair.
“Thank you.” Ryou whispered rubbing his hand on his slender throat and then his face went pale.
His hand rose into the air waving about in a desperate attempt to get the teachers attention.
“Ryou.” The teacher looked over at him confused, her eyes shifted to Bakura who couldn’t tell her anything more than she knew.
“Miss can I please be excused.” He asked hopeful and the teacher just sighed, she walked over to him and Bakura so the class didn’t have to hear.
On the teachers approach Ryou’s eyes shot to the paper and money on the desk which he franticly stuffed back into his pocket like it was a lifeline. Bakura looked down at him confused by his behaviour but Ryou’s attention was on the teacher. She knelled down placing her hands on his desk, and lowered her voice.
“This doesn’t have anything to do with your limping does it?” She asked and Ryou shook his head.
“I’m really sorry miss, I know I shouldn’t be interrupting the class like this again, it’s just I really need to…” He sighed and looked away from her. “You wouldn’t understand.”
Both Bakura and the teacher looked at Ryou worriedly. He just looked back at the teacher with pleading eyes.
“Please…” He whimpered and the teacher sighed.
“Bakura, go with him.” She said and Bakura nodded.
Ryou practically leapt from his chair running from the classroom, with the worried eyes of his class following him. The teacher walked to the front of the classroom watching as Bakura walked out the door after Ryou. She sighed and continued on with the lesson. Ryou was walking fast, head in the direction of the bathroom. He jumped in fright when a hand rested on his shoulder.
“Ryou…” Bakura’s smooth voice flowed over him and he sighed with relief.
“Oh, it’s just you.” Ryou whispered, he bumped Bakura’s hand off his shoulder and continued on his way. “You probably don’t want to see this, so I suggest you go back to the classroom.”
“No, the teacher told me to come with you.” Bakura said sternly and Ryou just shook his head.
“Fine, be that way.” He growled as he turned into the men’s bathroom followed closely by a confused Bakura.
Ryou walked over to the sinks and jolted himself up onto the bench, he then threw his head back, and eyes closed and massaged his throat. Bakura lent against the wall by the door, waiting for Ryou. He watched him with a confused expression. After a minute Ryou jumped down and lent over the sink shoving his finger down his throat and heaving in an attempt to remove the drink Bakura had offered him earlier from his system. Bakura pushed off the wall, ran over to Ryou and pulled his hand away from his mouth.
“What are you doing?” He growled using his other hand to lift Ryou’s face to his.
“Please, stop… I have to do this, otherwise…” he whimpered in both fright and pain.
Bakura pulled Ryou’s body towards himself and hugged him close.
“What could be worth forcing yourself to throw up?” He asked and Ryou just shook his head.
“I can’t tell you… I can’t tell anyone.” His arms wrapped around Bakura, gripping to his source of comfort and Bakura just petted his hair.
“What brought this on?” He asked and Ryou’s body just shuttered. Bakura sighed and used his finger to lift Ryou’s face, looking into Ryou’s tear filled green eyes. “Little one…” He whispered, “Please don’t do this to yo urself.”
Ryou sighed laying his head against Bakura’s chest with his eyes closed. “Alright… I won’t. Just no more questions.” Bakura nodded and he released Ryou from his hug.
“Thank you.” He whispered then he turned and started to leave.
Ryou looked at Bakura with a smile. ‘Getting beat for this, it would be worth it.’ Ryou walked up beside Bakura who took his hand in a comforting grip and they headed back towards the classroom. Bakura released Ryou’s hand at the door to the classroom.
“You going to be ok?” He asked looking down at Ryou with a smile.
“For now, yes.” He whispered and passed Bakura to open the door.
Chapter 4
The teacher looked up as Ryou and Bakura entered and headed for their seats, she looked at Bakura who nodded reassuringly and she smiled. Ryou slid into his seat turning to the back of his book and scribbling down something before flipping to the front. Bakura missed what he had written and was slightly worried. He sat down watching Ryou fiddle with his pen. When the bell went and everyone headed to the locker rooms to get changed for pe Ryou walked in the opposite direction closely followed by Bakura.
“Where are we going?” He asked as Ryou only just noted Bakura had followed him.
“You should have followed the class.” He scolded and Bakura just smiled.
“Now why would I do that when you’re supposed to show me around.” He smiled as Ryou just shook his head, turning into the front office, he approached the front desk with a smile.
“Morning miss.” He greeted and the lady stood up ruffling his hair affectionately, she then walked into the room just to their left.
Bakura looked at Ryou confused but he just smiled and shook his head. The woman returned with a pe uniform and handed it to Ryou.
“Nice and clean for you.” She smiled and Ryou thanked her before leaving with Bakura in toe.
They walked silently through the hall and out into the quad towards the change room, when they entered everyone was already changed and outside.
“Thank god this place is empty, they’ve been watching me like a hawk.” He said as he walked over to part of the bench unoccupied by uniforms.
“What do you mean watching you ‘like a hawk’?” he asked but Ryou just laughed.
“Just our classmates. The principal has directed I be under watch.” He said quiet coldly as he pulled his shirt over his head.
Bakura sat down looking at Ryou, he couldn’t help his gaze trailing across his chest, noticing the scar over his heart, unable to stop himself his hand moved to brush over the scar, freezing Ryou in his place.
“What happened?” He asked applying a little more pressure as he caressed the scar with his thumb.
“I thought you agreed to no more questions.” Ryou groaned as he closed his eyes, reeling at Bakura’s gentle touch and Bakura sighed.
“Yeah I did…” He said retracting his hand back pulling Ryou from his own little world.
“It’s alright, I just… you can’t tell anyone, anything I tell you.” He said as he threw his gym shirt on and stripped his pants down.
“Of cause” Bakura whispered, he averted his gaze immediately when he realized Ryou didn’t have boxers on, a blush dying his cheeks bright red.
Ryou smiled slightly at his reaction but decided to save him some embarrassment and pulled on his gym shorts. He then pulled his hair back and tied it in a knot so it was out of the way. Smiling he turned and they both left to join the class. The lesson went fairly quickly and soon they found themselves back in the locker room. Bakura once again sat down as Ryou toed off his shoes. He noticed the eyes discretely watching Ryou from around the room. He was right, they were watching him like a hawk. Ryou pulled his shirt off again then glanced to the side, not at anyone in particularly but noting the eyes attempting to not get caught.
“I just want to thank who ever approached the principal about my newest scar. You’re a real pal.” He said his voice dripping with venom and a few of them flinched, he sighed and closed his eyes. “I’m sorry…” He apologised and he was approached by a blond kid slightly taller than him.
“Ry… don’t be mad at us… You know we just want to help.” He said and there were several yeahs echoed in the background.
“I know Joey…” Ryou nodded and sat down beside Bakura.
Everyone finished dressing and left quickly after that leaving Bakura and Ryou alone again. Ryou sighed and stood up looking down at his clothes. Bakura again grazed his fingers across the scar over Ryou’s heart.
“Is this the scar you spoke of?” He asked and Ryou looked at him with sad eyes before shaking his head.
“No, that scar is old… I’m ashamed of the scar I spoke of… I know I’m worthless but he didn’t have to imprint me with it.” He whispered and Bakura looked at him confused, Ryou took hold of Bakura’s hand and shifted it to the back of his right hip where he was branded.
Bakura traced the letters with his finger not believing what it said.
“What?” He said taking hold of Ryou’s hips and spinning him around to see the word he had felt. “Oh Ryou…” He whispered tracing the word ‘Whore’ With his finger. He turned Ryou around again and stood up pulling him in for a comforting hug.
“I’m not going to ask you who did it…” He said, his hand brushing across Ryou’s hair in a soothing manner. “Not until you decide you want to talk.”
“Thankyou…” Ryou whimpered into his chest grateful that he didn’t push it.
The bell went and Ryou pulled away swapping his gym shorts for his track pants then throwing his shoes back on, he walked with Bakura back to the front desk where he gave the lady his clothes, then they left to go out to the playground. Ryou spotted his group immediately, they were sitting under a tree away from everyone else, Ryou ran up to them and tackled Malik to the ground, Marik cracked up laughing when they rolled across the ground and smashed into the tree, Malik straddling Ryou’s hips. Malik nuzzled into Ryou’s neck and purred.
“How was class.” Yami asked and Ryou smiled.
“Better than usual.” He said throwing his weight forward so Malik fell back and Ryou was straddling his hips. Ryou returned the nuzzle adding an affectionate nip and Malik giggled.
“Ryou,” Marik called shaking his head at the two. “He’s mine remember.” Ryou sat directly on Malik’s crouch as he glanced mischievously at Marik.
“Feel left out?” He said shifting his hips lightly pulling a moan from his friend.
“Damn tease.” Marik muttered and Ryou, Yami and Yugi just laughed.
Ryou got up and walked over to Bakura who watched the encounter quietly just away from the group. Ryou took his hand and tugged him over to the group sitting down beside Malik who growled lightly at Bakura.
“Who are you?” he asked but yelped when Ryou smacked his head, Ryou leaned over so his lips were by Malik's ear and he nipped before whispering something.
Malik smiled at Bakura warmly. “Nice to meet you.” He bowed slightly and Bakura nodded in response.
“So…” Yugi growled. “Who is he?”
“Yugi…” Ryou pouted, “Be nice please.” He said faking a tear and Yugi got up and sat In his lap, nuzzling into his neck.
“I’m sorry, please don’t cry.” He whimpered and Yami just chuckled.
“Yugi, he wasn’t really crying, he was faking it.” He pointed out bluntly, Yugi pulled back to see the smile on Ryou’s face and glared.
“Oh don’t look at me like that Yugi.” He said and ruffled Yugi's hair.
“Alright, but don’t do that again. It’s not very nice.” He said as-a-matter-of-factly and Ryou laughed nodding.
“Ok.” Yugi got up from his lap and sat back down beside Yami. “Guys, this is Bakura. The new student from Egypt.” He said sparking interest from Yami and Marik.
“Egypt, huh. You look way to pale to be Egyptian.” Marik noted making Bakura laugh.
“Indeed, my complexion was kept fair by spend majority of my day inside, going about my daily business during the night.” He explained and Yami nodded.
“That too is how I kept my fair skin, but I’ve been here for so long no one would think anything of it. You on the other hand Marik.”
Marik looked down at himself and pouted. “Yeah, my skin got killed by the Egyptian sun.”
Malik swatted at his hand. “Don’t pout about it none of us could imagine you with pale skin.” He said and everyone nodded in agreement.
Bakura observed their interactions learning quickly that Ryou had been friends for quite some time with the others, and that he was really comfortable around them. Ryou, as well as Malik kept trying to drag Bakura into their discussions but he kept backing out first chance he got, the other three didn’t really seem to care.
Chapter 5
When the bell went Ryou stood up first stretching and yawning.
“You think you will make it the rest of the day awake?” Malik asked and Ryou shook his head.
“Nah probably not, but I promised my teacher that I had slept all night so I can’t fall asleep during class.” He pouted. “I’ll have to sleep at lunch time.”
Bakura noticed the sympathetic looks all his friends gave him but none of them questioned why he didn’t sleep. His first thought was they all know what was going on with Ryou, but he probably pouted till they agreed to secrecy.
“Kura.” Malik called, using his new pet name for Bakura. “Look after Ry for us, or else.” He growled and Bakura looked worried.
Ryou grabbed Bakura’s arm hauling him to his feet and shifted in front of him. “Malik, you’re scaring the poor guy.” He said waving him off and dragging Bakura away. “See you all at lunch.” He called over his shoulder and they all gave off sounds of approval.
Ryou let go of Bakura’s hand as they entered the building heading back to the classroom.
“They seem nice…” Bakura commented and Ryou picked up a bit of resistance in his voice.
“But?” He asked looking up at Bakura, for reasons he didn’t know, he wanted Bakura’s approval.
“I’m not saying it’s a bad thing but they don’t seem to worry about you…” he said cautiously and Ryou sighed.
“They do worry about me, you have no Idea how much, it’s just they... They are the only people who know what I refuse to share with others.” Ryou watched Bakura’s face drop as he spoke. “They have answers to the question’s you’ve asked me.” He explained and Bakura just nodded.
“I see…” He said sadness lacing his voice as he walked on slightly ahead of Ryou, entering the classroom first.
Ryou pouted, he had hurt Bakura’s feelings, and it made him feel really bad. He followed Bakura into the classroom and over to their seats. He sat down leaning back into his chair and closed his eyes.
“I’ll tell you…” he whispered and Bakura looked at him. Ryou's eyes opened slowly as he shifted his gaze over Bakura’s shocked face. “I’ll tell you, whatever you want to know. Answer any questions you have… Just not now, it’s Thursday... Give me till the weekend.” He said his voice a little louder so Bakura could hear, but low enough so only Bakura could hear. Bakura nodded and wrapped his hand around Ryou’s in a comforting hold.
“Alright.” He said and they settled in as class begin.
20 minutes had pass and Ryou had fallen asleep his head resting over his and Bakura’s joined hands. The teacher had noticed and went to regrettably wake him until Bakura stopped her with a hand gesture for her to approach.
“He didn’t sleep a wink last night. Let me handle it, he told me that he would answer my questions this weekend, if all goes well. Please overlook his sleep, he needs it badly and you already know he’s ahead.” He whispered so not to wake Ryou up and the teacher just nodded going back to teaching.
Bakura smiled down at Ryou’s sleeping face and moved his hair out of his eyes. He then noticed Ryou’s work book. Shifting to grab it he opened it to the first page and smiled. It had a hand drawn picture of all his friends, he then flicked the page and saw 2 more drawings, the first one of Malik sticking up his finger and the second one of Marik and Malik hugging. Turning the page again showed a drawing of Yugi smiling and another drawing with Yugi sitting in Yami’s lap. He glanced down at Ryou who shifted slightly in his sleep and turned the page to see a drawing spread over both pages of the park bench he was sitting at yesterday. So Ryou knew of that quiet spot, he noticed the small writing written at the bottom right hand corner. “My Safe Haven”. Turning the page a last time reviled nothing, the next few pages were blank. He thought that maybe the rest of the book was blank, then he remembered when Ryou had scribbled in the back of the book. So he turned to find the letters “Reminder”. The area underneath the word was torn and obviously used quite a lot, with each new reminder the old had been rubbed out of the paper. The current reminder is today’s. “Thursday, first day of Famine punishment, 13 days till I can savour food & drink again. Shopping this afternoon. Manipulate the store owner to let me buy alcohol or suffer… do not buy, steal or accept food/drink/anything I might need or suffer… remember to drop by doctors and pick up STI results and scar results. Attempt to steal painkillers, currently running out and will be beat if I buy any.” And underneath in a hurried scribble is “Throw up before going home, hopefully avoid another beating”. Bakura looked down at Ryou shocked, but turned the page going back up the book. The first page showed a drawing of the scar over Ryou’s heart, a caption saying “Steak Knife.” The second page showed a scar Bakura hadn’t seen, it was a drawing of Ryou’s neck and higher back, his hair pushed to the side. The words ‘Kerro’s Property, Return If lost’ carved into his skin, the caption saying “Box Cutter.” Bakura paled but turned the page again, one of the pages blank, the other baring a drawing of Ryou’s hip, with the carving ‘Whore’, the caption saying “Switch Blade.” Turning the page a last time confirmed that the rest of the book was empty but he had seen enough. He closed the book and placed it back where it was. Ryou shifted slightly and his eyes fluttered open. He looked up at Bakura with a smile.
“I fell asleep didn’t I?” He whispered worry lacing his voice.
“Yes... But don’t worry I took care of it.” Ryou tightened his grip on Bakura’s hand and yawned slightly covering his mouth with his free hand.
“Thankyou…” He whispered laying his head back down on their hands, his eyes sliding shut.
Bakura gently stroked through Ryou’s white locks smiling to himself, but the smile faded when he looked over at the book by Ryou’s side. He sat in silence thinking about what he saw and read then looked down at Ryou again. He dragged the hand that had been stroking Ryou’s hair down along his cheek towards his neck, his middle finger brushing the delicate flesh. He then lightly gathered Ryou’s hair in his hand, brushing it to the side so he had a clear view of Ryou’s neck, He felt a tear threaten to fall as he let his thumb brush over the top of Ryou’s third and what he hoped, last scar. He noticed the teacher looking at him and quickly retracted his hand from Ryou’s neck allowing his hair to once again cover the scar, marring his beautiful skin. He smiled reassuringly at the teacher and waited for the bell to go.
“Ryou?” The soft voice drifted to his ears but he ignored it. “Ryou… wake up Ryou…” that same voice called again but he didn’t want to wake up just yet.
“Wake up!” Another jolted him from his slumber as it was accompanied by a rough, yet soft hand that joined with the bare skin of his pale arm.
“Ahh, what?” He asked rubbing the slightly sore spot.
“Well that’s a way to greet your friends.” He heard Malik snort and he looked up to see Yugi and Malik huddled around his desk. They were the only ones in the room.
Ryou sighed yawning and rubbing his eyes. “Sorry…” he whispered and his friends just smiled at how cute he looked.
“It’s alright Ryou.” Yugi’s timid voice sounded and Ryou tried to smile back.
“Where’s… Where’s Bakura, Marik & Yami?” he asked noticing the 2 eldest were missing, then glancing at the empty seat beside him.
“Kura came and got us, said he had to go see the principal, but didn’t want to wake you. After Kura had walked off Marik and Yami said they had something to do and left as well.” Malik said lifting Ryou’s sleepy body from his chair and cradling him in his arms, left arm under Ryou’s legs and right arm behind his neck. Ryou curled into his friends chest lightly gripping his school shirt and yawning again. “They all said they would meet us down by the tree.”
“Oh.” Ryou whispered nuzzling into Malik and closing his eyes.
Yugi picked up Ryou’s book from the desk and traced the patterns on its cover.
“Ryou how long was the book out of your grasp?” he asked and Ryou’s eyes shot open.
“Oh crap.” He muttered looking at Yugi with worried eyes. “I’m so used to sitting by myself that I keep it by me beside the wall. I forgot to make sure that I had it was out of site, but I fell asleep… Do you think maybe Bakura read it and that’s why he’s going to the principal?”
“I don’t think he would betray your trust like that Ryou, he seems like a nice person.” Yugi said looking at the book a last time before slipping it in his bag.
“Come on we will head out to the tree now and wait for Kura, Marik & Yami to come back. Then we can find out how much Kura knows.” Malik suggested and the others nodded in agreement. They then headed out to the tree, Ryou still resting in Malik’s arms.
Chapter 6
Bakura lightly pushed the door open and slid in, sitting down before the principal’s desk. His pursuers lining up against the office to listen into the convocation that was bound to pass between the occupants of the room beyond the wall. Bakura watched as the principal finished typing what he had been and then looked at Bakura with a stern gaze.
“Why have you called me back here already? It hasn’t even been a full day.”
“You’ve seen the contents of the book haven’t you?” the man asked his stern gaze turning soft and worried.
“If I have or haven’t, it doesn’t matter. You know I won’t say anything till Ryou allows me too. That was the condition in which I did this.”
“Bakura!” The man scolded. “You need to tell me what you know, Ryou could be in serious danger but we don’t know anything because he and his friends refuse to say anything, and we can’t assume stuff without evidence. How can we help him if we don’t know what’s wrong.”
“Look… Dad… I can’t tell you because I really don’t know anything myself, all I can say is believe the students in his class about the scars, they are all real. I have seen two of them and felt the third. I don’t know who did them, but I’m making steady progress, Ryou is extremely trusting and I’m not going to ruin what I’ve done so far, even if it could help. Give me more time with the boy. I can do this but you just have to be patient. I won’t betray what trust he has given me.” Bakura explained and the man seemed to accept the information, releasing a slight nod.
“You’ve had no troubles betraying trust before, what’s different now?” Bakura stiffened at the question and glared at the wall.
“Look I’m… just drop it and let me do my job ok.” He whispered and the principal nodded.
“Ok Bakura… I trust you.” He said watching as Bakura stood from his chair and walked towards the door before he realised something he didn’t know that Bakura had mentioned.
“He has three scars?” He suddenly called pulling Bakura to a halt.
“Yes… aside from the stab wound over his heart and the carving of ‘Whore’ on his back right hip, he has a second carving across his neck and upper back, hidden by his hair.” He explained then walked out leaving the man with a shocked expression on his face.
He lightly shut the door behind him with a slight click and left the front office, starting towards the trees where he knew Ryou and the others were waiting, again unaware of the two figures watching him leave.
“Well that answers my suspicions.” Marik grunted and Yami looked at his friend with a frown. “I thought it was strange how Bakura was mainly observing Ryou over break with us rather than interacting like Ryou and my Hikari were trying to get him to.” Marik explained his thoughts and nodded.
“Even though he said that he wouldn’t betray Ryou, we need to keep a close watch on him, I believe his voice was genuine and truthful during his admission but I still think you should set him straight just in case. With the added bonus that Bakura is the principals son… We can’t trust him just yet, Ryou craves attention and Bakura is full heartedly giving him that which has clouded Ryou’s judgement on him and his intentions. We need to watch his movement and make sure that Ryou is kept safe, at least until we know we can fully trust Bakura with him and his secrets.”
“Agreed, Ryou’s safety is our top priority. I’ll make sure Bakura knows what’s what.”
With that settled they started towards the oval where their mates, their friend & his companion were located.
“Kura!” Malik yelled when he saw Bakura come into view.
Ryou sat up from his resting place in Malik’s lap jolting Yugi, who was resting against him. Bakura smiled at them as he walked over and sat down. Ryou crawled over to him and dropped onto his back, resting his head against Bakura’s left thigh smiling up at him. Bakura gently ran his hand through Ryou’s hair enjoying the feeling of his fingers gliding through the strands. Yugi adjusted himself so he was resting in Malik’s lap, the same way Ryou was against Bakura. Bakura heard the three others sigh and sighed himself, it was then that he noticed the two eldest weren’t there.
“Where are the others?” he asked eyes trained on his hand, as it continued to pass through the soft white silk known as Ryou’s hair.
Malik’s head dropped to the side facing Bakura, his eyes glistening as the sun blew over his face.
“They left just after you took off.” Yugi explained and Bakura frowned.
"Speaking of which..." Malik started his eyes trained on Bakura's expression for more of an answer then he would verbalize, he lightly noted that Bakura had stopped dragging his fingers through Ryou's hair and he tensed slightly. "What happened?"
Bakura’s frown dropped further when he heard Marik call out from somewhere behind him.
"Yeah, what happened?" Yugi shuffled off of Malik as Yami sat down and made himself comfortable In his lovers lap.
Malik and Marik resuming a similar position.
"If you really must know what it was the principal wanted with me I'll tell you. I not only need but would like to obtain your trust and as odd as it may seem." Bakura started his eyes leaving the four sets watching him to glance down at Ryou's sleeping form, resuming the movement of his fingers through Ryou's white locks so much like his own but more tame. "I would like to be more than just friends with Ryou." He looked up at the shocked faces of Malik and Yugi and the not so shocked faces of Yami and Marik. Bakura noted their neutral expressions and figured only one way the news couldn't have shocked them. "Forgive me if I'm wrong but due to your lack of surprise I'm assuming that you know of my convocation with the principal?" he asked and the elder two nodded. "Well then you must know of my reason for coming to this school, as a favour to my father... I've always been good with extracting information from others and had no problem passing info to him, with permission or not..." low growls resounded from Malik and Marik at the statement but Bakura didn't even seem to hear them. "Never once had I honoured the respect of a project... I thought I would come here, get this out of the way and return home to my miserable life... Never had I expected to fall in love..." The growls immediately stopped, not only at the admission but Bakura has tears streaming down his cheeks. "All my life all I've wanted was to find that someone special, but it has always avoided me like the plague." Bakura looked up as if just remembering his audience, his eyes sparkled with slight hope. "Do you think... Ryou might..." He shook his head breaking off his question and sighed squeezing his eyes shut tight. "Forget it."
The others kept silent, not sure what to say or do. Another tear rolled down Bakura's cheek and landed on Ryou's own rousing the small boy from his slumber. Ryou’s eyes fluttered open worry instantly marring his features when another droplet of water fell upon his cheek. He raised a hand and brushed away the next tear.
"Kura..." He whispered. “What's wrong?" At hearing the concerned voice Bakura opened his eyes and laid his hand over Ryou's leaning slightly into the caress.
He smiled lightly and wiped his eyes with his free hand. "Nothing little one, I'm fine. Just go back to sleep." He wove his fingers with Ryou's lowering both hands from his cheek and rested them across Ryou's chest, he then resumed brushing his fingers through Ryou's hair.
"Alright." Ryou smiled softly and snuggled closer to Bakura hugging their hands as he fell back into slumber.
"Do you mean that?" Malik asked and Bakura looked at him confused. "That love him, did you mean it?"
"As odd as it sounds, I do love him..." Bakura whispered lightly kissing Ryou's forehead.
A silence took over the group as the spoken words sunk in.
"You… You really mean it?" Malik asked again and Bakura just nodded his head, the action bringing a sigh from Marik and Yami.
"Then... That is acceptable." Yami whispered and Marik growled.
"For now." Bakura looked up at Marik worried and was relieved when his attention was pulled to the bundle in his lap. Yami was also paying unnecessary attention to the junior in own his lap. Bakura then glanced down at Ryou, his hand disappearing into the snowy white hair splayed over his thigh, his fingers tracing over the top of the newfound scar across Ryou's back, a frown crossing his face. Yugi noticed Bakura's strange action and smiled meekly when their eyes met.
"He will explain when he is ready."
Bakura nodded accepting the explanation the youngest gave him and his eyes returned to the peacefully sleeping Ryou. He noticed the earlier stashed paper hanging out of his companions pocket and tugged it the last few inches out. Marik noticed his action but chose to ignore it, he looked over at Yami who was about to say something but Marik stopped him with a hand gesture mouthing ‘let him read it.’ Yami nodded and watched as Bakura unfolded the paper. Bakura read the letter his eyes darkening with anger then softening with sadness and pity. He looked up at the four surrounding him and sighed before whispered the question that had been nagging at him since he first discovered the scar over Ryou’s heart.
"Is this real?"
Both Malik and Yugi looked away at the question, while Yami and Marik just nodded their heads sadly. Bakura slowly folded the note back up and slipped it back into Ryou’s pocket. The action stirring said teen slightly, he turned over in Bakura’s lap nuzzling his nose into Bakura’s right thigh, he then released a small gust of breath that made Bakura shutter, before his breathing evened out again. He noticed both Yugi and Malik smile at his reaction and looked away from them pink dusting his cheeks.
A silence spread throughout the small group and lasted the rest of the lunch period till it was broken by 5 of the 6 teens present. They all groaned when they heard the bell signalling class time go. Bakura lightly shook Ryou from his sleep and said teen just buried his face further into the material of Bakura’s pants. Bakura’s face went bright red as he felt Ryou’s nose brush his awakening arousal.
“Here…” Malik said as he picked Ryou up bridal style, Ryou’s arms rested lightly against his stomach, his face buried into his friend’s shirt.
“Thank you.” Bakura whispered taking a minute to get his breathing and his need under control. Yugi giggled at him but other than that the only response was a nod from Malik, Marik held out a hand for Bakura to take and helped the teen to his feet. Malik then handed Ryou back to Bakura, who gladly took the small teen into his arms. Ryou adjusted himself in his sleep, he wrapped his arms around Bakura’s neck clutching at the material of his back and nuzzled into Bakura’s chest. They all then started towards the school building, all going to their own separate classes.
Chapter 7
Bakura noticed the students still lined up outside of their classroom and ignored the odd stares they gave him. Of cause if confused them that he was holding Ryou, said teen had been pushing everyone away for the past who knows how long. He sighed. He was really worried about Ryou, he adjusted the teen in his arms slightly and looked around for the teacher. ‘Where is she?’ He thought to himself, he then sighed and looked at his classmates.
“Oi!” He called and when a couple of them looked over at him he spoke gesturing to Ryou in his arms. “Tell Ms. that I’m taking the rest of the day off and I’m taking Ryou with me, just slip what every work and home work we both have into my locker.” He noticed a couple of them nod before a blond stepped out of the group and took a few steps towards them, Ryou shifted uncomfortably as if sensing someone’s approach and that made the blond stop.
“Bakura, is it?”He asked and Bakura nodded, he recognized this blond as the same one who apologised to Ryou in the locker room 2nd period.
“Joey.” Bakura greeted and the blond looked shocked that he knew his name.
Bakura wavered his head before strolling off, the blond following him.
“What is it you wish to talk about?” Bakura asked him and the blond shifted his worried eyes from Ryou to Bakura.
“Ry… Is he doing ok, we are all really worried about him and well… I know what you were sent to the school to do… Have you found out anything?”
Bakura cleared his throat. “He’s severely underweight, under slept, he has attachment issues, that’s really all I can say at this point.” Bakura explained and then glanced at Joey. “You a friend of his, in the locker room you were the only one to actually approach him with concern.”
Joey nodded. “Well not exactly friends but Yugi is one of my best friends, that’s how I met Ryou, he’s glued to those 4.”Joey explained and Bakura nodded.
“They are all he has…” He whispered before looking to the front doors that they now stood in front of him. “I’m taking Ryou to my apartment so he can get in some proper sleep before he is forced to return home, can you let his friends know that he’s with me please.” With that said and a nod from Joey, Bakura left the school carrying Ryou with him.
The walk to his apartment was short, 5 minutes at most, When he got there he knocked the door frame with his knee, at the height with the parallel window seal and a click sounded from the door. He used his foot to nudge the door open and entered kicking it shut behind him.
“Glad I had that installed.” He spoke out loud as he approached the staircase.
“Come on Hikari, let’s get you to bed.” he whispered as he climbed the stairs and crossed the hallway to his bedroom door.
The hallway had three rooms, a spare on the right, his in the middle and another spare on the left. He entered his room through the already open door and lay Ryou onto his black silk sheets. He brushed some hair from the teens face and lightly kissed him on the forehead, before stripping the teen down to his boxers, he lightly ran his fingers over the large bruise formed over his ribcage before pulling the blanket over him.
“sleep well…” he whispered then left the room, he walked down stairs, put Ryou’s clothes, which smelled suspiciously of blood into the washer and then went and sat down in the lounge room to watch the TV that had been on since he woke up early that morning. He glanced at the clock to see that it was 1pm. ‘That means Ryou should get at least 2 hours sleep.’ he mused his thoughts on his smaller companion sleeping upstairs in his bed. HE thought about how today had gone and how close he already felt to the boy, he had never felt this way about anyone before and he was sure that it was love. 'It has to be…’He mused for about 10 more minutes in his mind completely tuning out the sound coming from the TV and listening for any sighs of Ryou waking. He got board after a while and his thoughts drifted to Ryou’s book, Ryou had written that he had to go grocery shopping this afternoon which means that his parents aren’t expecting him home for a while, at least a good hour after school, which means Ryou can get more sleep. This thoughts drifted once again to the threat he had read about Ryou buying himself any food and he smiled. ‘I’ll make him something to eat for when he wakes up.’ he thought to himself as he got up and headed for the kitchen.
Ryou stirred from his sleep and froze. ‘Soft…’ He purred nuzzling his nose into the silk sheets below his pale face. ‘Wait since when do I own silk?’ He lay there enjoying the feel of the material on his skin, but then he froze. ‘Shit! I’ve fallen asleep on the master’s bed!’ He jolted upright when he heard footsteps coming up the stairs and he yelped. He leapt to the floor ignoring the pain throughout his body. The door opened and he paced his forehead on the floor.
“Master! I am so sorry! I can’t remember what happened or how I got in here but I promise I will wash your sheets immediately, someone such as me does not deserve a bed, I have defiled your sleeping quarters with my presence. Please forgive me!” Tears started rolling down his face as he waited for the blow he knew was coming.
“Ryou?” The shocked voice startled Ryou and his head snapped up, Bakura was staring at him wide eyed.
“Ba… Bakura?” Ryou asked shakily. ‘Oh no! If the master sees Bakura I’m in even more trouble then I already am for sleeping in his bed. Bakura must have brought me home… I have to make sure he can get out safely.’ Ryou jumped to his feet and ran past him and out into the hallway, his body froze as he looked around. ‘Where are we, this isn’t the masters home?’ Ryou turned to look at Bakura confused, he had placed something on the bedside table and was now looking Ryou in the eye.
“We are in my apartment.” He said before tilting his head at Ryou. “What was that all about?” It was then Ryou realised what he had done.
‘Oh crap! He saw that whole thing… What do I do?’He looked down at the floor away from Bakura’s eyes and sighed. “It’s nothing…” He knew that Bakura would want answers now but he didn’t know what Bakura would do with the knowledge.
“Did… Did you think I was… Kerro?” Bakura’s voice broke with the last word as though someone had just ripped his heart out. Ryou glanced at him before he ran to the nearest corner in the room and curled up into a ball whimpering. “Yes…” The reply was so soft Bakura almost missed it but he already knew the answer before he asked. Bakura slowly approached the frightened teen whose whole body was shaking with the force of his sobs. ‘He’s nothing like the teen I met at recess just hours ago…’ Bakura thought sadly.
Ryou noticed him staring and shook harder.
“What are you going to do with me?” Ryou whimpered out, it was then that he noticed his state of undress. ‘Oh god! What if he is just like the master… What if he just wants to use me and throw me away?’
Bakura sighed and walked back over to the bed. “Come sit on the bed?” Bakura asked, he didn’t know what to do to help but he figured a soft place to sit was a start.
“No!” Ryou yelled our moving to another corner further away from Bakura. ‘I knew it, he just wants to have his way with me then toss me aside like the trash I am!’ More tears streamed down his face and he curled even further in on himself. He noticed Bakura’s hands fly up in surrender and the confused look on his face. Bakura was really worried. ‘What’s gotten into him?’
“Ryou it’s me… Bakura, I won’t hurt you… Please…” he tried in a gentle voice, he noticed Ryou twitch slightly and look up at him.
“You’re… You’re not going to hurt me?” he asked and Bakura felt a tug at his heart at the look in his companion’s eyes.
He couldn’t help it, he ran over to Ryou and picked him up till his feet were the only thing left on the ground, he then wrapped his arms around the teen hugging him tightly, he ignored Ryou’s flinch and attempt to get away.
Ryou didn’t know what to do he had never been embraced like this by anyone other than Marik, Malik, Yugi, Yami and his dead family. It felt odd after being abused daily for so long, he froze in his spot and just listened to Bakura’s voice.
“I could never hurt you Hikari, please don’t say such things about me... I love you too much to see you in pain.” He whispered burying his face into the smaller boy’s neck. Ryou felt a spark run through his body at the older boy’s words.
“What?” The ragged whisper fell before he could even stop it. ‘Did I hear him right? No one loves me, well except for the guys…’
“I love you.” Bakura repeated louder and lightly kissed Ryou on the forehead.
The words and action calmed Ryou don’t significantly and his hands clutched into Bakura’s shirt, his head resting against Bakura’s chest as the elder held him. Bakura picked Ryou up and took him over to the bed, when he laid Ryou down the boy immediately started shivering.
“It’s ok…” Bakura whispered as he pulled his sheets over Ryou’s exposed body. He brushed a lock of hair out of Ryou’s eyes and sighed. “Please… The weekend is too long to wait…”He spoke in a concerned tone. “What happened just now?’ Ryou had stopped shaking and was now watching Bakura with scared, wide eyes.
“I…”
“Please Ryou, you can trust me… I love you and just want to help…” He held out his hand brushing Ryou’s cheek with his thumb. “Unlike those dip-shits at school you know I can do something…” he added in to lighten the mood and he smiled when he heard Ryou’s small giggle, he dropped his hand to Ryou’s chest and just rested it on the sheets.
“They’re not that bad.” Ryou commented a small smile on his face at the change of topic, Ryou shifted his hand to Bakura’s and squeezed the older male’s fingers. His smile fell when he thought about the real topic at hand, then he sighed and nodded to Bakura. “Ask Away.”
Chapter 8
Bakura made himself comfortable on the edge of the bed, brushing Ryou’s leg in the process. “Well first off I brought you something so sit up.” Ryou nodded and pulled himself upright watching Bakura with curiosity.
“Now I’m no chef so my specialty ranges from toast to soup, so I made you both.” He said lightly and when Ryou went to protest he wagged his finger at the boy. “No complaints, you’re to eat it all.”
Ryou sighed in defeat and nodded his head, he then picked up the spoon and took a small mouthful of the soup before him. He sighed as the creamy substance trailed down his parched throat and into his empty stomach. Silence then fell over the room as Ryou continued to eat, Bakura watching his every move. "So..." He whispered
"Where would you like me to start?" Ryou asked, his hand shaking slightly as he lifted his next mouthful to his lips.
“Well how about you start from the beginning?” Bakura suggested softly.
“Alright...” Ryou sighed out, he got in another mouthful before he started talking. “It all started when I was 6, my parents, my sister and I were heading back from the shops when a drunk driver ran a red light and sideswiped our car, my sister died instantly, my parents, that same day in hospital and I escaped with, some broken bones and a few bruises. The second day I was in hospital my nurse had her son with her, that’s when I met Yugi. It was about 4pm when she came to my room to check on me and he just started talking to me, we got along instantly and when his mother continued on her rounds he stayed with me and kept me company till he had to go home, every chance he go after that he would come in with his mum and spend the day with me. I was in hospital for 3 weeks as I had no one to look after me in my vulnerable, incapable state at home. I would have been kept in there longer but that was when Master stepped up.” Ryou released light shutter but continued. “I said my goodbyes to my new friend and we promised to meet up on the outside, then I went to my new home. Master was caring and loving and treated me as if I was his son. The funeral was held the week I got out of hospital and life continued on. I met up with Yugi the following weekend and he introduced me to Yami, Malik and Marik. When I was enrolled into my new school, the three of them were in my class and everything went fine. With their love and support I was over my family's passing and had a new family.” A light smile graced Ryou’s lips at the thought of his friends, but then he frowned as he knew what was coming next. “On the 2nd anniversary of my parent’s death my friends and I went to their grave site, it was the first time I had been there since the funeral and I cried he whole time. When we went our separate ways I went straight home hoping for some comfort from Master. He didn't know I had entered and I heard him on the phone, he was bad mouthing my father and called me a good-for-nothing brat. I ran to the shelter of my room and curled up on my bed. I think he heard my door close because he came into my room after his phone call and for the first time since I came to live with him, he hit me. It wasn't that hard and would not bruise but it was harder than a scolding smack. He yelled at me about ease-dropping then left, that was it. The next 2 years passed normally till my 10th birthday. It was about 6pm and I had yet to be given a present or to be wished a happy birthday. He came into my room and talked like nothing was wrong, but he air about him seemed… Off..." Ryou stopped and took in a deep breath, Bakura grabbed his hand and held it in his own as a show of comfort which Ryou greatly appreciated. With a nod from Bakura he continued. "He sat next to me on the bed and talked to me like he had done do many times before. I thought he was going to leave when he stood up, but he didn't, he moved closer to me and placed his hand beneath my chin to get me to look him in the eyes. Then he... He kissed me. I didn't know what to do so I just sat there and let him. When he tried to slip his tongue between my lips I pulled away and shook my head to say I didn’t want to but he just hit me the tried again. I didn't want to get hurt again so I let him. It was the second worst feeling in my life... The first is what happened next.” Ryou stopped talking there. He had finished the soup Bakura had made for him and was nibbling on the first slice of toast.
"Do you want to stop now and finish it later?" Bakura asked, he could see he tears gathering in the corners of the youngers eyes and was worried, but Ryou just shook his head.
"It's best if I finish while I still can." He whispered before wiping at his eyes and taking a small bite of his toast. "I may have been young, but what kid hasn't learnt things they’re not supposed to know at their age, I knew the kiss was a thing shared between two people who care about each other, in both cases of romance or not, but when he laid me down and straddled my waist, I knew it wasn't right. It was passed family and gone onto something shared between ‘Non-Relative Lovers,’ as Yami had put it. He was gentle about it at first, as he kissed and licked at my neck, but when he started unbuttoning my shirt and I tried to push him away he hit me again before tearing my clothes from me... Then he... R-raped m-me..." The tears that had been held back throughout his words were left to fall from his eyes. “It was the worst thing I have ever felt in my whole life, and what made it worse was when he… Finished… With me he called out my m-mothers name.” Ryou sobbed the last part and Bakura pulled him into a tight hug. “Since that day, Master has treated me like the dirt he walks on… Everyday he rapes and abuses me, sometimes several times a day. I’m basically his slave, I do the shopping, I do the cleaning, I do the cooking and all he does is treat me like his bitch.” Ryou’s voice turned from sad to angry, the tears stopped falling and he was almost growling. “He stopped calling out my mother’s name about 2 years ago, now he just degrades me verbally and marks my body.” Ryou’s hand unconsciously went to the back of his neck where he was branded. “He’s a sick, twisted fuck and I can’t wait for my 18th birthday.”
A silence took over them before Bakura pulled Ryou into his arms.
"Ry... I... Thank you for telling me..."Bakura whispered hugging Ryou tight to his chest. The younger was silent, he was breathing deeply tying to get himself under control. Bakura noticed the note on the bedside table and leaned over to pick it up. Ryou sat up at Bakura's movement and noticed the letter he was reaching to pick up.
"Yo... You've read it havnt you. " he whispered retrieving the letter from Bakura and unfolding it, the 50$ note fell into his lap as his eyes scanned over the writing. Bakura held him, reading over his shoulder, he felt a familiar spark of anger .
"I don't want you going back there." He whispered out in concern for his light and he frowned at the look that crossed Ryou's face.
"Your concern is sweet, but I have to."
"No you don't. I can look after you, please." his voice was painfilled as he burrows his face into Ryou's snow white hair.
"come on, I have to get Masters shopping done and head back before he suspects I've been anywhere but school." Ryou said as he pocketed the note and money. He go up and leafy the room, Bakura watched him leave with a sad expression before standing himself. He followed the younger down the stairs and out the front door.
Chapter 9
Bakura stopped and glanced back at Ryou who had stopped his eyes trained off to the left. Bakura followed his attention and noticed the man behind the counter at the liquor store looking at them. He heard Ryou release a light growl and looked back at him with worry.
"Ry." he called and said boy snapped out of his gaze, his growl ceasing immediately.
"Yes?" he asked walking over to Bakura and the two of them continued walking towards the shops.
"You know him?" Bakura's worried voice sounded and Ryou sighed.
"We have to go see him after shopping, it appears he already knows about my shop today. That bastard must have called him..." Ryou responded whispering the last part, walking slightly ahead of Bakura.
Bakura looked at him weirdly but followed him into the shop. They walked around in silence, Ryou grabbing everything he would need to cook. Bakura followed Ryou quiet unnerved by the silence. He didn't know what to do or say, he was brought out of his thoughts when he heard a whimper come from Ryou. He glanced over at him but he just had his eyes shut.
"Is everything alright?" The shop clerk asked as she finished scanning the items, the total price coming to $33.
"No." Ryou shuttered in response as he handed the women his only $50 note.
She took the money and gave Ryou his change and receipt. Bakura continued to look at Ryou worriedly as they both picked up the shopping and left in the direction of the liquor store. He noticed Ryou's eyes filled with an unknown emotion as they got closer. Once out the front Ryou stopped and turned to Bakura shuttering at the look he knew the man was giving him.
"Stay here." His voice was strained but his tone was absolute.
Bakura shook his head. "I'm coming with." He said lightly going to walk inside but was stopped by Ryou's arm. "Why can't I go in with you?"
Ryou looked away, his expression almost ashamed. "You wouldn't understand..." He whispered as he turned to walk through the doors. He glanced at the clerk who was leering at him and sighed. "Please just stay out here."
"I'm coming and that's final." Bakura's firm statement made Ryou flinch. He glared up at his companion and then sighed looking away.
"Then don't interfere." With that said Ryou entered the store with Bakura close behind.
They both approached the counter and Ryou smiled nervously.
"Tyson..." He greeted releasing a nervous chuckle.
Bakura gave Ryou a worried glance, 'What’s gotten into him?'
"Ryou..." The clerk returned his voice dripping with venom as he spoke, he then glanced at Bakura. "Kero, said you would be coming alone..." he whispered glancing at Bakura with a glare. "Who is this!" the man’s voice rose in anger as he hissed the statement.
Ryou visibly flinched taking a step back from the counter, Bakura moved to step in front of Ryou but was held back by a week, feeble grip on his shirt. He glanced down at the pale hand and sighed, stepping back. Another nearby customer scowled at the clerk before walking out whispering something about disrespect. Said clerk watched he lady leave tisking.
"What did Kero tell you about not causing a scene?" he asked, voice smug.
"But..." before he could say anything else he was cut off again.
"I thought you would have learnt by now!" the clerk snarled and Ryou flinched again. "Recite it." Ryou looked away from the angry man and Bakura's confused gaze. "Now!" the hiss was enough to make Bakura shiver Ryou noticed, he sighed, he really didn't want Bakura to see this but he didn't have a choice. He got down on his knees, forehead touching he floor and whispered something silent.
"and speak up." the man growled kicking Ryou in the side, Ryou yelped a tear escaping his closed eyes as he spoke louder.
"I am dirt, I am nothing but Masters slave, I live only to serve, please, pleasure and entertain master." Ryou's cheeks were now covered in tears as he continued speaking, Bakura didn't know what to do. "I will not disobey master and he is my all, whatever master wishes I shall grant, until the day he sees fit to remove me from his presence forever." Ryou shifted till he was on his knees head still facing the floor. "Master said never to disrupt your workplace with my filthy presence. That I am only to come in, pay you, get his request and leave. I have disrupted your shop by making you angry, I apologize and accept my punishment, whatever you see fit." he then bowled again till his forehead touched the floor and waited for the clerk to move. He heard Bakura growl when Tyson moved and the vicious snarl when he felt a tight grip wrap around his upper arm.
"You better tell your..." he saw Tyson give Bakura the once over before growling himself. "Guard dog, to stay out of our business. As I recall you’re not supposed to have friends. Kero will find this very interesting." he let lose a cold chuckle as he yanked Ryou towards the back room.
Ryou glance back at Bakura who was about to follow them and mouthed 'Please.' Bakura looked really worried and uncertain but stayed by the counter anyway. Ryou and Tyson were gone for over an hour. Bakura paced by the counter hoping everything was alright. He wanted to see if Ryou was ok, but he had promised the other he would not interfere. He was about to break his promise when the door to the back room opened. Tyson stepped out of the room with Ryou trailing behind him, from what Bakura could see the teen was unharmed. Tyson stopped in clear view of Bakura and smirked at him before turning back to Ryou and forcing him into a kiss. Ryou’s body went limp as he allowed the clerk to do as he pleased, Bakura growled low but didn’t move. When the clerk pulled away he tossed Ryou in Bakura’s direction before heading behind the counter. Ryou stumbled but before he hit the floor Bakura had caught him. He helped the teen to his feet before glaring at the clerk who now had his hand over a case of beer.
“$20.” Was all he said, and Ryou whimpered again, leaning slightly into Bakura for security.
He took out the $17 change he had from food shopping and placed it on the counter.
“That’s all I have.” Ryou whispered and Tyson counted the money before smirking.
“Now Ryou, you’re a little short.” He said with a sadistic smile on his face, Bakura didn’t like the look at all and wrapped his arm around Ryou’s waist in an attempt to comfort him. The action didn’t go unmissed by the clerk who smirked at him. “You have two choices. I’ll give you 5 of the 6 cans, due to you being short in money and you can be punished by Kero, or you can give me what I want and I’ll ignore the missing money.” He purred and Ryou shuttered.
The teen sighed before stepping out of Bakura’s grip, he parted his hair before finding a thick hidden strand resting against his neck. He lifted it up, holding it out with his eyes closed.
Bakura was confused till he saw the scissors Tyson was going to use to cut Ryou’s hair. He knew he shouldn’t intervene, Ryou would get mad at him, but if Ryou prided his hair half as much as Bakura did himself, he wouldn’t let the younger sacrifice it.
“Wait…” He spoke, his hand shot out to grab at the clerks, stopping his actions towards Ryou’s hair, said teen looked up at Bakura confused. “Here’s an extra $20. Covers the missing money and then some.”
Ryou was shocked, but happy at the same time. He lowered the strand back against his neck and shook his hair to hide it. The clerk growled at the older teen before snatching his hand away, taking the money with him. He then pushed the case towards the two and snarled.
“Kero will hear about this.” He snapped before disappearing into the back room.
Ryou sighed before gathering the shopping in his hands, he then started to limp out of the shop. Bakura was worried about him but wanted to be at a safe distance before he asked about it, he grabbed the case before picking up the remaining shopping. Both teens left the shops and stopped to load said shopping into Bakura’s boot, they then both climbed into the car, Bakura driving and Ryou, passenger.
“Are you alright?” Bakura asked as he started the engine and drove out of the car park. “What happened in the store room, your limping and…”
“Please just don’t. Take me home…” He whispered, facing away from Bakura as he let silent tears fall.
Bakura saw the glistening salt water out of the corner of his eye and sighed,
“Alright, if that’s what you wish.” He whispered before focusing on the road and their destination. “I will take you home.”
Chapter 10
'Where am I, last thing I remember is leaving the liquor store and telling Bakura to take me home. So that means I’m back at master’s place.' he thought to himself as he watched the back of his eyelids. 'It’s quiet so perhaps master isn't home yet. That means I’m safe for alittle bit. I should probably head for my room so I'm not on masters couch when he gets home.' Ryou's eyes fluttered open and he was met with the illuminating light of the TV in a dark room. 'Odd. Did Bakura turn all the lights off before he left?' Ryou sat up and looked around. The loungeroom was set out differently, and he looked to the shut blinds with a confused expression. 'The loungeroom at home doesn't have blinds.' he limped over to the blinds and looked through them, his eyes were met with the night sky and the occasional streetlight.
"Ohh Ryou, you finally woke up." he whirled around to see Bakura standing in the doorway into the kitchen where there was a light on. 'How had I missed that?'
"Ba... Bakura, I thought I told you to take me home, Masters going to be very mad at me." he whispered out before he limped back over to the couch and sat down.
"I did, your home now. I've decided I'm not letting you go back there." Bakura's words were strong and determined and Ryou didn't know what to say.
"Bakura it’s only 2 more days till I can get out of there." he whispered glancing to the clock. It was 1am in the morning. "Less than 48 hours till I can legally leave. I don't want to involve you, you'll get hurt, that's why I haven’t let the others help either. Please Bakura I don't want you involved. Just wait for me, I’m strong enough to finish this to the end." he whimpered out hoping Bakura would listen to him.
Bakura approached him and knelt down before him. "You’re not going back, I refuse to let him hurt you again, even if it means getting hurt myself." Bakura responded stubbornly.
Ryou nodded then kissed him lightly on the lips.
"If you get hurt interfering I will never forgive you." he growled out and Bakura could tell he was being serious. “Bakura, could I please use your bathroom?” Ryou asked and Bakura nodded immediately.
“Of cause.” Ryou shyly kissed him on the lips once more before standing up and stumbling slightly. Bakura caught him before he fell and he received a grateful look from the younger.
"Thankyou." Ryou whispered before limping out of the room, Bakura trailing behind him.
"Why are you limping?" Bakura asked worried about him and Ryou's answer was the bathroom door closing in his face. Bakura was about to ask him again when he heard the spray of the shower come on. Bakura went to his bedroom to get Ryou something to wear before he went back out and began pacing the hallway, thinking about everything that had happened. When he heard the water stop he walked up to the door and leaned his forehead against it. He could hear shuffling on the other side of the door. “Ryou… I’ve brought you some fresh clothes.” Bakura whispered and the door peeked open and Ryou looked through, he nodded slightly in thanks, before taking the offered clothes and shutting the door, the shuffling could again be heard. “Ryou… Why were you limping?” Bakura asked again and the movement on the other side of the door stopped followed by a sigh.
“I think you know.” Ryou’s soft voice responded and Bakura looked down at his hands, tears gathering in his eyes. "Why didn't you let me help you, I could have stopped him from... from..."
"You couldn't have stopped him and I would have gotten hurt worse if you tried. He is gentler then Master, but if you had interfered he would have been worse." Ryou whispered from the other side of the door. A silence that passed between them, both thinking about the situation before Ryou broke it by opening the door. He flung himself into Bakura's arms and they embraced as Ryou let his tears fall. "Alright, I'll stay… with you. I'll stay here if you promise not to leave me." He whispered and Bakura smiled softly, he picked Ryou up and walked towards his bedroom, he lay Ryou down and pulled the blanket over him before climbing in himself. Bakura wrapped his arms around Ryou's small body and pulled the boy so he was resting against his chest.
"I won't leave you, I promise." He spoke before kissing Ryou on the forehead.
“Thankyou.” The younger whispered in a sleepy voice. "I love you."
Bakura smiled at the words before nuzzling into Ryou’s hair. “I love you too.” His whisper didn't reach the youngers ears as the sound of soft breathing entered the room. Bakura looked at the sleeping face fondly before entering blissful sleep after his younger companion.
The sun rose through the curtains as Ryou sat up and yawned. He looked down and frowned at the white haired male who he was leaning against.
“Bakura?” He whispered nudging the teen.
Bakura groaned, wrapping his arm from Ryou and pulling the stunned teen to the bed, cuddling against him, Ryou nervously glanced at the closed eyes before burring his hand into Bakura’s white hair and dragging his fingers through the silky locks.
“Bakura, we’ve got to get up.” Ryou said and Bakura purred as he nuzzled into Ryou’s neck, the younger freezing at the unfamiliar contact.
“I would rather stay in bed with you.” Bakura almost whined, licking lightly at Ryou’s soft skin. The younger shivered at the pleasurable feeling and wiggled out of Bakura’s grasp before sitting up.
“The sun is rising and we need to get ready for school.” He said again and Bakura growled lightly at the loss of contact and the youngers words but sat up shielding his eyes from the sun.
“Fine.” He grumbled, annoyed at having to get up.
“Not a morning person huh?” Ryou asked and gave light, nervous laugh at the elders glare.
Bakura got up and moved across the room with a stretch before going to leave. Ryou stayed put looking down at his lap. ‘I’ve made him angry.’ He sighed and was startled at the elder’s voice.
“Are you coming?” Bakura asked looking back at Ryou waiting for the younger to follow.
Ryou looked back at him confused and Bakura just shook his head with a smile before walking back over to him and pulling him to his feet. “Come on, we have to go for a shower before leaving.” The older said winking and Ryou blushed brightly, before following from the room compliantly. He followed Bakura down the hallway and into the bathroom, jumping slightly when the elder shut the door behind them. Bakura reached into the shower and turned the taps, starting the flow of water, not bothering to adjust it. He then started to strip out of his night clothes. Ryou looked down at his own nervously. Just before Bakura went to take off his boxers he noticed the younger wasn’t moving.
“Is something wrong Ryou?” Bakura asked lightly caressing his right cheek as he looked into the youngers emerald eyes.
“No, I’ve just… Never washed with anyone other than Master before…” He whispered looking down at his hands again with sad eyes.
“I only suggested we shower together to save time but if you are uncomfortable, we can shower separately.” Bakura said reassuringly “I don’t want you to be uncomfortable in my presence. It saddens me that you think I would hurt you, betray you, when all I want is your safety and happiness…” He whispered and Ryou looked up at him with uncertain eyes. Bakura smiled slightly before he started to leave the room but stopped by a hand on his wrist.
“Please, don’t leave…” The younger whispered and Bakura nodded, turning around and pulling the younger into a tight hug.
“You need to understand Kitten, I would never hurt you.” Bakura whispered and Ryou looked up startled at the nickname but nodded before laying his head on Bakura’s chest. They stood in silence for a few minutes before Bakura pulled away and looked down at him. “We best shower or the whole point of showering together will be a waste because we will not have saved any time.” Bakura winked and grinned when Ryou smiled back and nodded. The youngers reluctance was gone as he stripped out of his cloths and waited for Bakura to finish undressing. Bakura pulled down his boxers before stepping into the spray of the shower, ignoring the temperature.
“I am not sure how tempered you have the water when you shower. So you can set it.” He said lightly as he held his hand out for the younger. Ryou nervously looked over at the hand before taking it and allowing Bakura to pull him into the shower. He yelped at the coldness of the water and quickly adjusted the spray to a more comfortable temperature. Bakura noted the temperature similar to how he showered himself and smiled when Ryou picked up the washcloth and covered it in soap before he placed the soft material against Bakura’s neck and began washing him. Bakura closed his eyes in bliss as the younger cleaned him. Ryou noticed the reaction and smiled to himself, knowing it was him that was pleasing Bakura. He took in the elder’s body as he washed him, when he was finished with Bakura’s upper front and back, he dropped to his knees and bypassed the elders hips, washing his legs and feet before moving up to wash his thighs and hips, he lightly caressed the elders backside with the cloth before running the soft material against his arousal before taking hold of the semi-erect member and stroking it lightly with the cloth. Bakura jolted at the pleasurable feeling before looking down at Ryou with confusion.
“Ryou… What are you doing?” He moaned and Ryou smiled lightly before looking up at him.
“Master says that our privates need to be cleaned thoroughly every time one showers.” The younger responded before removing the cloth and wrapping his lips around the head of Bakura’s now hard member. Bakura was too stunned to act and could only moan lowly at the feel. Ryou lowered his mouth, covering Bakura to the hilt, gaging when the large appendage hit the back of his throat. Pulling back almost straight away he drew in a deep breath, frowning lightly. “Your much bigger than Master.” He whispered before trying again, this time pushing down his gag reflex which protested against his action. Bakura had frowned at the youngers words but groaned at the feeling and sunk his hands into Ryou’s hair, brushing the locks lightly.
“R-ryou, you don’t need to do that.” Bakura moaned and the younger stopped immediately, pulling back and looking up at him with sad eyes.
“You do not approve, have I done something wrong?” The younger whimpered and Bakura sighed before kneeling before the other.
“You couldn’t be more wrong Kitten.” Bakura whispered and Ryou’s eyes clouded with confusion.
“Then what is wrong?” Ryou asked and Bakura placed his hand against Ryou’s cheek lightly.
“Do you know what you were just doing?” He asked lightly and Ryou looked at him with a smile.
“I was cleaning you?” He responded, questioning his answer.
“No. What you were doing with the cloth is cleaning.” Bakura explained and Ryou looked confused before the elder continued. “When you use your mouth, it is for the purpose of pleasing the other, in an Intimate sense.” He finished and Ryou looked stunned.
“M-master said it was because you privates also have to be cleaned on the inside aswell…” Ryou stuttered and Bakura looked at him sadly.
“He lied to you, it was just another way you could bring him pleasure.” Bakura spoke softly and Ryou sobbed, sitting on the shower floor and pulling his knees to his chest.
“Kitten… We must finish showering and get ready for school.” Bakura whispered and Ryou looked up at him tears mingling with the shower water traveling down his face.
“Alright.” He allowed Bakura to pull his feet and froze when he felt the washcloth on his skin.
“Shh Kitten, I’m just going to wash you then we will get out.” Bakura responded and smiled lightly when Ryou relaxed, the body stiffened again slightly when he cleaned the others member but remained relaxed for the wash. Bakura used the time to take in the others appearance, his body was very thin and he could tell the other was building muscle, because the skin was almost hard. The bruise across his midriff was an ugly deep purple, part of which was darker than the rest, which he knew was the result of the clerk kicking him in the stomach. He searched the small frame as he washed for any other scars the younger might bare due to his ‘Master’ and he was happy to find that there were no more. When he finished cleaning he placed the cloth on the soap holder and turned off the water. He got out pulling his quiet companion with him and began to dry them both. When they were dry Bakura left the room and headed for his bedroom and began shuffling through his draws.
“I washed your clothes, but they are probably stillwet, you will have to wear something of mine today.” Bakura said looking over his shoulder at Ryou who stood in the door way just watching the other. “Just pick out anything you like.” Bakura said gesturing to the draws he was searching through. The younger nodded reluctantly before he crossed the room and opened one of the draws to Bakura’s left.
When both were dressed Bakura led the younger down the stairs and into the kitchen.
“Grab whatever you want to eat, then we will head off.” Bakura said as he crossed the room to the sink and poured himself a glass of water. Ryou watched him move before he looked down at the floor. Bakura glanced back at the other who had yet to move with confused eyes. ‘Why is he not moving to get something to eat?’ He asked himself before asking. “What’s wrong Kitten, are you not hungry.” At his words Ryou glanced at him before lowering his eyes back to the floor.
“Do you not wish to eat?” Ryou asked shyly, Bakura gave him a strange look before his eyes saddened.
“Kitten… You do not have to wait for me to do anything, or ask permission. This is your place too now.” Bakura said softly as he buried his fingers into Ryou’s hair and kissed him on the forehead. “Now grab something to eat so we can head off.” He smiled releasing the other before returning to his drink. Sighing when Ryou shyly moved around the kitchen and made himself something to eat. He then sat down at the table and slowly ate, watching Bakura out of the corner of his eye, making sure he didn’t upset the other. Bakura frowned, noticing the others actions before he sat down at the table, waiting for the other to finish in silence. The silence was broken as Ryou collected his dish and went into the kitchen, he went to wash it up but froze as a lager hand took the bowl from him and placed it in the sink.
“That can be done later, we need to get going if we are going to be on time.”
Bakura said softly and Ryou nodded, the two then left the house and started towards the school.
Chapter 11
Malik smiled brightly as he saw the pale teens approaching. He ran over and dived at Ryou, the teen barely keeping his footing as he caught the blonde in a tight embrace.
“You left… Went home early, we weren’t sure what happened to you.” The blonde sobbed into his neck and Ryou patted the others back comfortingly. Bakura watched silently before he was pulled away, but still within sight by Marik.
“What happened?” The teen growled and Bakura smiled slightly still watching the teens.
“He was still asleep by the time we got back to the classroom so I took him home.” Marik growled not liking the answer. “To my place.” Bakura added hoping to lower the others anger but that only made him angrier. “To sleep, I promise.” Bakura held up his hands and Marik seemed to accept that.
“Ryou, Yami and Yugi are already inside. Let’s go.” He called out and the younger two retreated from their embrace and followed slowly, talking softly to eachother. Marik nodded and started off, Bakura by his side. “Now talk.” Bakura sighed before explaining the events of what happened since lunch the previous day. Marik growled upset by the new information.
“Thankyou for stepping in like you did, Ryou’s hair means a great deal to him, it is the only treasure he has left to remind him of his dear mother… And Thankyou for not taking advantage of him and explaining his actions to him. We try to correct his actions as often as we can but that bastard has…” Marik sighed, stopping his sentence as he looked down at his clenched fists.
“I understand.” Bakura whispered, placing a light hand on the blonde’s shoulder in an attempt to calm him down. Marik smiled in silent thanks and Bakura nodded, dropping his arm by his side. He then looked over at the other. “Do… You think he will ever be that comfortable with me?” Bakura asked and Marik looked at him with saddened eyes.
“We have tried to desensitize him as much as we can to touch, but as his ‘friends’ we can only do so much and even then his understanding between friendship and intimacy is on a shaky line. When we first started hanging out, he used to kiss us all on the lips as a greeting. Kerro had taught him that, kissing was the proper way to say hello.” Marik growled angrily and Bakura frowned.
“That is why he is almost… Intimate in his actions towards you guys?” Bakura asked and Marik nodded.
“He was fine when Yugi first introduced us to him after his release from the hospital, but the problems started when we returned to school the year after his tenth birthday.” Marik stopped when Bakura looked at him confused.
“Returned?” Bakura asked and Marik nodded.”
“He didn’t show up to school the day after his birthday and we didn’t see him for the rest of the year, the next time we saw him was the following year, on the first day of school. When he returned, he seemed… Strange. Greeting each of us a light kiss on the lips and a tight hug, we just assumed he was excited to see us again and ignored it, but as the day went on we noticed discovered other things that were wrong with him. He always had some kind of contact with one of us, the contact occasionally being intimate. He avoided all other people but us, refusing to be left alone even if it was with another classmate. As the day ended he again kissed the four of us on the lips, as a goodbye and left. Over the next few months, he repeated the progress always greeting us with kisses and sticking within our presence, whining whenever we were separated. Other things began to change, he started referring to us in a more official manner and flinched, sometimes shielding himself if any of us got angry. After the four of us talked about it we decided to confront him about it, but he refused to say anything to us about it, and his actions only got worse, his scared reactions almost doubling and as time went by his actions towards us only became more intimate. It confused us that he only acted that way towards the four of us, and although withdrawn and sometimes angry himself, he acted normally towards everyone else. We constantly tried to get what was going on out of him but he always said nothing was wrong and that he didn’t want to talk. It wasn’t until he was 16 that we finally found out. When he got his first scar, we would not have known if I was for Yugi’s mom, she was the nurse on shift when he was brought in with the stab wound. In the safety of the hospital room we finally got him to explain what was going on. He had told us that Kerro had taught proper etiquette. He had forgotten to greet Kerro properly when he got home that after noon and the man had punished him. He believed that he deserved almost dying and that Kerro was merciful to not end his life then and there. We were all shocked as he continued to explain everything that Kerro had taught him and that he was sorry for not respecting us properly in the earlier days which we knew him. We had explained to him that everything Kerro had said was a lie and he got angry at us, forcing us to leave.” Marik whispered and Bakura looked shocked, listening sadly as Marik continued. “We returned the next day and he basically begged us for forgiveness about his actions the previous day, even going so far as to try and get on his knees but his injuries and Yami held him back. We told him that he didn’t need forgiveness, we then made him listen as we explained to him that what Kerro had said was wrong. He listened to us and when we were finished he had looked down at his hands and we fell into silence. When he finally spoke it was an apology for everything. When Yugi went to take his hand in comfort Ryou had flinched away and he was reluctant to do anything without getting confirmation from us first. He began to greet us with nothing but an emotionless hello, he avoided all contact with us and often tried to be left alone. We talked to him about it, him asking questions about the proper way to act and he eventually adopted a shaky line down the middle. We had managed to convince him, with little effort that everything that happened in his house was wrong and we tried to get him to let us tell someone, but he said ‘As long as I have you guys, I will be able to pull through this. I do not want anyone involved, just trust me that I can do this on my own.’ He had made us sware secrecy and over the past two years he had stabilized himself in our presence, as you witnessed yesterday, he does cross the line from friendship to intimacy but I believe that will be a part of who he is for the rest of his life.” Marik finished looking down at the floor as it passed under him, Bakura looked down thinking.
“Then, that is why he kissed me?” Bakura’s voice was soft and Marik looked at him with a slight smile.
“No.” Bakura jolted looking at him shocked and Marik’s smile grew. “Ryou knows the meaning of a kiss, innocent, intimate or otherwise. It was the first thing we tended to, and he hasn’t kissed us in an intimate way since. If he kissed you, he had a reason, I believe it may have been out of gratitude but I may be wrong.” Marik finished and Bakura’s face fell. They continued walking in silence before Marik looked at Bakura and nudged him, getting the elders attention, he sighed at the sad eyes before looking forward again. “I know it hurts Bakura… But I want you to keep trying.” Marik’s voice was stern and Bakura looked at him confused, the blonde smiled before explaining.
"You can give him the attention we shouldn't. The most we can do is hold him, give him comfort but you can take that to the next level, in an intimate sense. Ryou is still unused to hugs, by anyone accept us, everytime he freezes, it’s not because he hates what you’re doing. It's because he is afraid, he has known nothing but pain for the last 8 years, Kerro has never attempted to be kind or gentle and any pleasurable touches would be foreign to his body and mind. I'm not saying jump in the sack with him right now but he needs to learn that what Kerro is doing is wrong. Sure he knows it isn't right but the act itself is painful in his mind, he has never had the chance to consent to such an act so his only experiences, in what is supposed to be the most pleasurable thing a person can do, are all painful. He may already have developed a fear of it." Marik whispered before looking at Bakura with tears in his eyes. "Please, you must help him. I fear he may be damaged, beyond repair. I... I trust you and I believe you when you say you care for him. Please do what you can." He begged and Bakura nodded.
"I will do anything in my power to help, but the first line of action is to get him out of that environment. I need to ask you for something." Bakura turned stopping and looking at Marik in the eyes.
Ryou and Malik stopped looking at them confused on why they stopped in the middle of the corridor.
"Bakura?" Ryou asked looking at him.
"Sorry Kitten, you should go on ahead, I need to talk to Marik about something." Bakura explained, he moved over to Ryou and placed his hand against the youngers cheek and lightly kissed him on the lips. "I will meet you in the classroom in afew minutes." He whispered brushing Ryou's cheek again before turning back to Marik. The blonde smiled lightly at him, noticing Ryou's blush over the teens shoulder.
"Go on Hikari." Marik muttered, the smaller blonde ran over and wrapped his arms around Marik's neck, pulling the taller down into a deep kiss. When he let go Marik's head was spinning.
"I'll see you in afew minutes." Malik whispered, nipping at the elders lips before he pulled away and ran off, dragging Ryou down the hallway.
Bakura smirked at Marik who still looked dazed.
"Hikari?" He chuckled and Marik smirked back.
"Kitten?" The blonde returned with a small laugh aswell and Bakura shrugged.
"Now, I know your father is a cop." Bakura started bluntly and Marik nodded. "You, Yami and I are going to put an end to this." Bakura said and Marik looked confused.
"As soon as Ryou turns 18 he is legal, once that happens, Kerro goes free. I will not allow that, the bastard will get what’s coming to him." Bakura growled viciously and Marik looked slightly shocked. "There is no doubt in my mind that Ryou will be leaving the school with Kerro before the day is out. That bastard is his guardian after all." Bakura explained and Marik nodded.
"So what do you intend to do." Marik asked and Bakura looked down the hall.
"I... I cannot stop him from taking Ryou home with him... But with yours and Yami's help I can get the evidence I’ll need to send him to jail." Bakura said and Marik nodded.
"What do you need us to do? We will do what we can to help." Marik asked and Bakura looked back at him.
"Malik and Yugi are not to come with us." Bakura said sternly and Marik went to protest but Bakura stopped him. "We may see... Things. I'm not saying they are weak but if something is happening to Ryou, we cannot just burst into the house." Bakura explained and Marik looked horrified but nodded. "We cannot alert that bastard to our presence, we are going to need to collect a few things to make this work, and I need you to fill the others in on what’s happening. As soon as Kerro shows, I will come get you, Yugi and Malik should head to my place while we are out." Bakura said handing Marik his house keys, they then went over everything they would need before heading in their separate ways as the bell sounded.
Chapter 12
Bakura slipped into the classroom, smiling lightly when his classmates ignored him, the only one who looked at him was Ryou, and the younger was smiling brightly at his appearance. The teacher called Bakura over and he nodded to Ryou before going to the teacher’s desk.
"Yes miss." He asked in a hushed voice and the teacher looked up to him with a smile.
"I am not sure what you have done Bakura, but please continue to do so. I haven't seen young Ryou so happy since he was a child." She said and Bakura nodded.
"Of cause miss." He responded and as he walked up the classroom to Ryou he called out. "Sorry for my tardiness, it shouldn't happen again." The teacher only nodded and continued on with what she was doing at her desk. Bakura slipped behind Ryou and into his chair, smiling at the younger.
“Did you and Marik discuss whatever it was you wanted to talk about?” Ryou asked softly and Bakura nodded before looking the younger in the eyes.
“Ryou… I need to tell you something.” Bakura whispered and the teen looked at him with worry in his eyes.
“What is it, what’s wrong?” He asked with worry and Bakura smiled slightly.
“Nothing is wrong Kitten, it’s just…” He sighed before looking away from the younger.
Ryou frowned, saddened by Bakura’s actions and he reached over and took the elders hand.
“You can tell me, I promise I won’t be mad.” Ryou whispered reassuringly and Bakura looked him in the eyes before nodding and looking back down at their joined hands.
“He will take you today.” Bakura whispered and Ryou looked at him confused. “I won’t be able to stop him from taking you back today…” Bakura continued and Ryou’s confusion only deepened before he realized what Bakura was referring to and he sighed, tightening his grip on Bakura’s hand.
“I know, I knew this yesterday aswell, which is why I told you to just take me back. He won’t let me go Bakura, my only chance is to wait till the weekend.” Ryou explained and Bakura shook his head, refusing to hear the youngers words.
“Marik, Yami and I are getting you out of there tonight. We are going to make sure that that bastard goes to jail.” Bakura growled and Ryou looked at him with curious eyes.
“How?” Ryou questioned and Bakura looked at him with a sad smile.
“I talked to Marik about it already. When he comes to get you, we are all going to meet up out the front. Yugi and Malik will go back to my place and wait for us. Marik, Yami and I will follow you back to his house and we will go from there.” Bakura explained and Ryou looked away with tear-filled eyes.
“You can’t…” He whimpered and Bakura looked over at him confused, Ryou noticed before continuing. “My punishment will be sever, I… I don’t want you to witness it…” He looked at Bakura as tears started to trail down his face. Bakura sighed before pulling the younger into a tight hug.
“That is why we will not allow Malik and Yugi to accompany us. I know it will be hard but…” Bakura stopped when Ryou whined lightly.
“I don’t want you to see me like that… You won’t…” He couldn’t finish and Bakura growled lightly.
“Don’t you ever think that!” He suddenly cried out and remembered where they were, he glanced up to see the teacher and class looking over at them with worried eyes.
“Is everything alright Bakura?” The teacher asked and Bakura nodded before bowing slightly.
“We are fine, sorry for disrupting the class.”
“Alright.” The teacher responded with a confused tone before all eyes turned away. Bakura then looked back to a still whimpering Ryou who had tucked his face in his arms, he buried his hand in the youngers white hair, softly dragging his fingers through the silky locks.
“Please do not think so lowly of me.” Bakura said softly and Ryou looked up at him confused. “My feelings are not so shallow. You honestly think I will stop caring for you because of this?” Bakura asked wounded by the youngers implication.
“I’m sorry.” Ryou whispered and Bakura sighed.
“It’s ok Kitten, Just know I would never hate you. I’ve told you before, I love you and nothing will change that.” Bakura reassured enforcing his words by caressing the youngers neck over his scar.
“Alright Bakura.” Ryou whispered before resting his head on the elders shoulder, eyes closed. “What do you need me to do?”
“I know it may be hard, but we cannot alert him to our presence. You need to act as if we are not there.” Bakura cautioned and Ryou nodded before sniffling. “I will also need you to get us the… weapons he used to do these.” Bakura continued, using alittle more pressure against the youngers neck scar. “We will take care of the rest.”
“Alright Kura, I trust you.” Ryou whispered, he lay his head against their joined hands and sighed sadly.
Bakura smiled down at the younger as he felt his body relax, Ryou had fallen asleep.
He looked up to see the teacher watching him with sad eyes and Bakura nodded to show that they were alright.
The quietness of the classroom was shattered as the classroom door was wrenched open and slammed against the wall. The glass cracked slightly, but the door was mainly unharmed. Everyone’s attention shot to the man now in the doorway with confusion. The sound had jolted Ryou awake and like everyone else, his eyes shot to the man and a cold chill ran down his spine. He backed into his chair, tightening his grip on Bakura’s hand as his body started shaking.
“Master.” He whispered softly, only Bakura could hear him and he glared at the tall business man.
“Can I help you?” Came the teachers voice and the man turned his cold brown eyes to her.
“I’m here to pick up my charge.” He spoke before glaring across the classroom at Ryou, his eyes flickered to Ryou and Bakura’s conjoined hands and a cold smirk crossed his lips.
“Have you gone to the office, I cannot just let you take him from class without having the office notified.” She explained and the man glared over at her.
“Get up, now.” He growled not taking his eyes off the teacher, she looked at him confused but her eyes crossed to Ryou when the teen, pushed back his chair and stood. Squeezing Bakura’s hand and not letting go.
“Move, we are leaving.” The man glared at him and Bakura one more time before turning to leave. Ryou’s looked down at Bakura with a sad smile before he finally let go of his hand. He pushed his book towards the elder teen before walking towards his guardian.
“Hurry it up boy!” The man shouted and Ryou yelped slightly before running the last few steps to the door, Kerro smacked him on the back of the head as he walked out of the room and slammed the door shut, cracking the glass.
Bakura was on his feet the moment the door was shut, he gathered Ryou’s book aswell as his own before moving quickly to the door.
“Bakura…” The teacher called out.
“It’s alright, we knew this would happen. I have a plan.” The elder called out as he slipped from the room quietly.
“Good luck.” She called out before turning back and calming the class. “I’m going to call the principal, please return to your work.” She said before drawing her phone and informing her boss of what just happened.
Bakura heard her words and smiled slightly before sprinting down the hallway to the classroom he knew Marik and Malik were in. He skidded on the slick tiles and banged on the door before pulling it open. Everyone looked up at him including the teacher but he just panted.
“Marik, now.” He huffed before running off again.
Marik lept to his feet, dragging Malik along with him and the two left, running to catch up to Bakura who had stopped at another classroom.
“Yami, comeon.” He called and the three were soon joined by a worried Yami and Yugi. Bakura then started at a run towards the schools entrance.
“What is going on guys?” Yami asked and Bakura glanced quickly back at Marik before continuing on, Marik nodded to the silent request before explaining their plan to the three who were yet to be informed.
“What! I am not staying back while you three go, I want to be there for Ryou aswell!” Malik yelled and a ‘Yeah’ also came from Yugi.
“Shut up, there they are.” Bakura growled as he skidded to a stop at a corner. The four of them listened in as they followed at a slower pace.
Ryou whined quietly as he felt the man’s grip on his arm increase, any tighter and he would break it.
“Friday, you know what happens today. I will be lenient with this little charade you have pulled, I will punish you, however I need you in working order so your punishment will have to wait until the weekend.” The man explained and Ryou nodded.
“Yes master.” Ryou responded looking down at the floor.
“I didn’t believe Tyson when he told me what happened.” The man growled and Ryou whimpered. “The punishment he gave you doesn’t suffice, you will also get extra punishment for your ‘Friends’ interference, really slave, I thought you would have learned by now.” The man snarled and Ryou nodded.
Marik had to yank Bakura back before he alerted the man to his presence. Marik glared at him before thumping his foot against the floor twice, Kerro was too engrossed in his words to hear it but Ryou’s head shot up, no other outward sign showed that he had heard it. Quiet filled the hall again Untill Ryou thumped the tip of his shoe, rolled his foot and banged his hill against the floor all in one step. Yami then knocked his knuckles twice on the locker to his left before stomping once. Ryou created another sequence of sounds using his feet and the fingers on his free hand, which was behind his back. Marik sighed sadly before responding with a simple click of his hill. Ryou gave him the thumbs up and went to move his feet again before he got cuffed up the back of the head.
“Stop that.” He growled before squeezing Ryou’s arm tightened. Ryou’s eyes clenched shut and his hands fisted, teeth clamping over his lip in an attempt to stop from screaming in pain.
“Sorry Master.” He ground out and the man smirked before yanking his arm and continuing faster, the movement jolted his shirt and Ryou pointed to his waist with his spare arm. Bakura’s eyes moved over to Kerro’s waist and he was surprised to see the switchblade tucked neatly beneath the band of his pants. Bakura quickly withdrew the book and flipped to the page at the back of the book. He nudged Marik and showed him the picture gesturing to the blade. Marik nodded before whispering something to Malik, he then pulled Yami, Yugi and Bakura out of clear site. Malik took a deep breath before running towards the two, he collided with Kerro, slipping his hand to his waist and drawing the blade, which was then slipped into his own waistband before the three caught their balance. The impact had knocked Kerro away from Ryou and the younger sighed in relief, holding his arm.
“Sorry.” Malik bowed to Kerro, gritting his teeth in anger before he stood and continued looking at the floor, if the man saw his eyes, he may remember him. “I didn’t see you there.” He finished before continuing down the corridor at a run towards the front doors.
Kerro growled after him before continuing on his way.
“Stupid child.” He glared at the disappearing form, Ryou sighed with relief seeing his friends success and followed Kerro, glad the elder hadn’t grabbed him again.
Bakura, Marik, Yami and Yugi began following them again and the group stayed silent. They followed the two through the doors and turned the corner to where they knew Malik would be waiting. Bakura continued to watch the direction where Kerro took Ryou as Malik proudly showed off the blade, to which he was rewarded with a deep kiss from Marik. Malik moaned and wrapped his arms around Marik’s neck, only pulling back when Bakura cleared his throat.
“Yugi, Malik. You need to head to my place now, we need to follow them.” Bakura said and growled when the mentioned teens whined. “Do not complain.” He snapped before looking at them, his eyes had darkened in his anger and the four looked at him with worry. Seeing the looks he was getting he shook his head and sighed. “Sorry.” He said softly, looking down at the floor and was surprise when he felt a comforting hand on his shoulder. He looked up to see Yugi looking at him with a smile.
“It is ok Bakura, your frustrated, we understand.” He leaned up on his toes and lightly kissed Bakura on the cheek before whispering to him. “Now go save our Ryou.” He then took the keys from Marik and dragged Malik after him. Bakura watched them go with sad eyes before he felt arms wrap around him, he froze. He looked over his shoulder at Marik who was smiling down at him.
“Let’s go.” Marik’s eyes hardened and Bakura nodded, before the three of them ran through the parking lot towards Marik’s car. The three of them all got in, Marik driving, Bakura in the passenger seat and Yami in the back. As they got onto the main road the three scanned the street before Bakura noticed Kerro’s car and pointed it out to Marik who discretely speed up so they wouldn’t lose them. They drove for almost 10 minutes before Kerro pulled into a driveway. The house was really nice, Bakura was shocked by it.
“This is Ryou’s childhood home.” Marik told him, “Kerro does have his own place but he never takes Ryou there. Kerro just moved into Ryou’s parents house when he took guardianship over Ryou.”
Bakura nodded in understand and Marik parked the car across the street, the three watched as Kerro got out of the car and walked around it, he opened Ryou’s car door and pulled the teen out by his elbow before shoving him towards the front door. Ryou stumbled dropping to his knees, but a rough hand pulled him up by the back of his neck and continued to shove him towards the house. He waited, watching the floor as Kerro opened the door and yelped when he was shoved inside, smacking his knee against the doorframe.
“Shut up and get to work.” The others heard Kerro snarl before the door was shut.
Marik looked over at Bakura frown, the white-haired teen was gripping the dashboard with crushing force with his eyes squeezed shut.
“Bakura… We must move.” Yami whispered and he received a small noise of acknowledgment before Bakura slowly released the dashboard and got out of the car, he shut the door alittle harder than usual before discretely crossing the street with Marik and Yami right behind him. They snuck around the side of the two-story house and moved through the open side gate, out into the backyard. They were looking around when the back door slid open, all three heads shot to the figure who had not noticed them as he turned to slide the back door shut.
Chapter 13
“Ryou…” Bakura whispered and the younger jumped before spinning around with wide eyes. He was completely naked except for a white apron that left little to the imagination.
“B-Bakura…” Ryou whined lowly before dropping the basket and limping towards them before jumping into the elders arms. He wrapped his sore limps around Bakura’s neck and nuzzled into him, crying softly. Bakura carefully rubbed the youngers back, looking at Marik and Yami who were looking at Ryou with sad eyes.
“It’s ok Kitten, what happened when he pushed you inside?” Bakura asked softly and Ryou sobbed before shaking his head, the three elders knew what had upset the younger, his limping was hard to miss. “My little one, I promise this will all end soon.” Bakura whispered, burying his nose into Ryou’s hair, they jolted away from each other when a voice ran from the house.
“Slave, hurry the fuck up, my guests will be here soon!” Kerro yelled from where he sat in the loungeroom and Ryou looked over his shoulder towards the washing. He reluctantly let go of Bakura to grab the basket before heading towards the washing line.
“H-Hai Master.” He called back, Bakura walked over and helped him hang the washing, Yami and Marik helped too. When it was done Ryou sighed before throwing his arms around Bakura’s neck and crashing his lips against the elders. Bakura was shocked at first before he responded, licking at the youngers lips, surprised when Ryou parted them almost straight away. Bakura then deepened this kiss, pouring all his love into it. When Ryou pulled away Bakura rested his forehead against the youngers and the two just looked at eachother for afew minutes.
“I love you…” Bakura whispered and Ryou smiled slightly, he pecked Bakura’s lips one more time before pulling away, picking up the basket and running inside. Afew seconds later the sound of a vacuum could be heard.
Marik motioned to Yami and Bakura before moving towards a window near them. The other two followed and the three peaked through the window. They could see Ryou in the loungeroom vacuuming the floor and Kerro on the couch watching the tv. He kicked Ryou in the side when the younger got in his way and Ryou yelped before grabbing his side with his free hand and dragging the vacuum out of the way so Kerro could see the tv.
“Sorry Master.” Ryou ground out, bowing lightly before he continued to clean the house, Vacuuming, dusting and all the while, avoiding Kerro. When the cleaning was done and he had put the vacuum away, he re-entered the loungeroom and stood by the couch at Kerro’s feet. He drop to one knee with his head lowered and didn’t move.
Bakura looked at Marik and Yami confused but the three ducked at the sound of Kerro’s voice.
“Go make lunch.” He growled and Ryou immediately stood.
“Hai Master.” He responded before quickly making his way into the kitchen. The three watched quietly before they snuck around the house and to the kitchen window. Ryou entered the kitchen, washed his hands and then proceeded to make lunch for Kerro.
“Are you alright?” Yami whispered through the window and Ryou looked up, smiling lightly before nodding to let them know he was ok. As he moved around the kitchen cooking Yami, Marik and Bakura could see the look of longing in his eyes.
“Just eat alittle, you’re hungry.” Bakura whispered, worried for him.
“I’d rather not get beaten infront of you guys if its all the same.” Ryou whispered and he sighed when Bakura whined and his words.
“Then at least have some water…” Marik responded but Ryou just shook his head and picked up Kerro’s food, he then left the room and headed back into the loungeroom, his three followers moving back to the other window. Ryou placed the plate down on the table and resumed his kneeling position beside Kerro with his eyes closed. Nothing happened for a few hours and it was now 4 in the afternoon, the boys began to think that nothing would happen, that was when Kerro’s phone rang, he picked it up talking swiftly before he hung up and kicked Ryou again. The younger jolted but didn’t appear to be harmed by the second kick.
“Go get the snacks ready, they are almost here.” Kerro demanded and Ryou nodded.
“Yes Master.” He responded before leaving the room to the kitchen. The three were about the go back to the kitchen window when 3 cars drove up the street, 1 parked on the driveway, 1 on the lawn and the other on the street. Three men got out of the cars and Bakura immediately recognized the man who parked on the lawn as Tyson. He lead the other two towards the front door and banged on the wood.
“Slave! Get the door!” They heard Kerro’s voice and a minute later Ryou opened the door with a bowed head.
“Welcome to Master’s house, he is currently in the living room.” Ryou smiled politely bowing as each man passed him the first one groped his ass, the second kissed him and Tyson slapped him with a glare. When all three were inside, Ryou shot a sad look in the direction he knew his friends were before going back inside and closing the door. Bakura growled angrly before he moved back to the window and watched as the men all took up seats in the loungeroom, Ryou entered from the kitchen with a tray full of food and drink, he set it down on the coffee table, handing out the drink and allowing everyone to get their own food before kneeling beside Kerro again.
“Man my feet are killing me.” One of the men whined, flinching as he rested his feet in the carpet.
Kerro clicked his fingers and Ryou released a silent sigh before crawling over to the other man. He nuzzled into the man’s leg to get his feet onto his back before shifting onto his elbows and knees and resting there. He was facing the window and at his friends faces he tucked his head into his elbow to avoid their eyes.
“That better?” Kerro laughed and the man smiled, kicking Ryou lightly before re-resting his foot.
“Much.” He chuckled and the three then began to converse as they ate and drank.
The sun was starting to set when the chatter was broken by Ryou.
“M-Master…” He called softly and Kerro glanced down at him with annoyed eyes. “I apologies for interrupting your discussion Master, but I need to use the bathroom.” Kerro sighed before waving his hand.
“Very well, but hurry back, everyone is very stressed.” Kerro grinned and Ryou shivered before pulling out from under the man’s legs and rushing down the hall.
Bakura turned back to Marik and looked over his shoulder.
“How is the recording going?” He asked and Marik nodded keeping the lens focused on the loungeroom.
Ryou quickly left the bathroom to return to the loungeroom when Kerro yelled out to him.
“Slave, hurry into the kitchen we want beer.” He called out and Ryou replied with the usual ‘Yes Master.’ Before running into the kitchen.
“I’ll be right back.” Bakura whispered before he slipped around the house and towards the kitchen window.
“Ryou…” He whispered and the younger looked up from the fridge. “Where’s the knife?” He asked lightly and Ryou looked at him confused before Bakura held his hand over his heart. Ryou’s hand copyed the action and brushed over his scar through the material of the apron. Ryou then nodded before quietly opening the drawn and shuffling through its contents. Bakura’s eyes widened at the size of the knife that Ryou withdrew before he quietly shifted the window, Ryou passed the knife out through the small gap before smiling softly at Bakura. The elder nodded and quickly moved back to where Yami and Marik were still leaning against the wall. He passed Yami the knife and the teen slipped it beneath his belt before re-positioning his shirt over it. Ryou re-entered the loungeroom and passed around the four beers before retaking his kneeling position beside Kerro. Chatter refilled the loungeroom till the four men had all finished their beers and the sun was beginning to set.
“Alright guys, its getting late.” Kerro started as he stood up, he pulled Ryou to his feet and ripped the apron from him before tossing him down on the glass table. Bakura snarled viciously and struggled when Yami’s arms wrapped around his waist and mouth, holding him back.
“Relieve your stress then get out of my house.” Kerro laughed before he left the room. Ryou whimpered as the three men began to unbuckle their belts. He turned so his eyes locked with the deep blue of Bakura and he mouthed. ‘Please, don’t watch.’ Bakura whined as tears started to fall and Yami had to pull him from the window, Marik made sure the camera was still in place before turning away himself. The three flinched as Ryou’s painfilled cry’s broke from within the house. An hour had passed before a voice broke through the crys of pain.
“Alright you bastards, that’s enough. I don’t want the neighbours calling the cops because of his worthless crys.” Kerro said and a few painfilled shrieks came before it went silent.
“We had a good afternoon, my friend. Can’t wait for next Friday.” Tyson chuckled and Kerro joined in as he lead them towards the front door.
“Thanks for coming guys, have a safe drive home.” Kerro called as they all got in their cars and drove off. Kerro waved to them before turning back inside and closing the door. The three teens returned to the window in time to see Ryou struggling up from his position on the floor, he had a deep cut above his left eye from where he smacked his head on the tables edge when he was tossed to the floor.
“Get up, I want dinner.” Kerro snarled as he kicked Ryou in the stomach and the younger’s hand flung to his mouth as blood came up.
“H-Hai Master.” He stuttered as he struggled to his feet and limped into the kitchen.
He slumped against the counter as he caught his breath before slowly starting to cook. He sighed when he felt the three sets of eyes watching him and gave them a very sight smile. Whilst moving around the kitchen, Ryou had to keep rushing to the sink to throw up bile and blood, having nothing left in his system.
“Bakura…” He whispered after washing his mouth out for the third time.
“Yes love…” Bakura whispered and Ryou stumbled before getting his balance and looking at the three teens through the window.
“The box cutter… It’s in the shed.” He whispered and Bakura nodded before nudging Marik, he and Yami then stealthily made their way across the lawn and into the shed to search for the last blade. “I’m sorry Bakura.” Ryou whispered as he continued to unsteadily cook.
“Please don’t apologize to me Kitten… I…” Bakura sighed before resting his hand against the window separating them. “I’m proud of you.” His voice was so soft that Ryou thought he had misunderstood the elders words. He looked at Bakura with confusion. “You are so strong my love, I am so proud of you for getting through this. I promise you, this will all be over, come daybreak.” Bakura whispered reassuringly and Ryou shakily rose his hand to rest it against Bakura’s through the window.
“Thankyou Bakura… I” Ryou smiled slightly before resting his forehead against the window. “I love you.” He then pulled away, quickly gathered Kerro’s dinner before leaving the kitchen to take the man his food. Bakura ran to the window to watch Ryou place the plate before Kerro, he then kneeled down again as the man ate. Afew minutes had passed before Marik and Yami had joined him at the window.
“We found it.” Yami whispered flashing the box cutter in Bakura’s view and the teen nodded, Marik slipped the last blade into his back pocket and the three waited for Ryou to be dismissed. 20 mins had passed before Kerro knocked Ryou on the shoulder.
“Clean up.” He growled and Ryou nodded.
“Yes Master.” He whispered as he grabbed Kerro’s plates aswell as the beer bottles and made sure the table was clean before heading into the kitchen. He threw out the bottles and placed the plate in the sink before washing it and the dishes. He looked up into the three sets of eyes watching him and gestured to the side of the house where they had been hiding with a flick of his head.
“My room is the one with the small window that is bared shut.” He whispered and Marik slowly snuck off to look for said window. Ryou quickly finished washing up, he whispered a Thankyou before leaving the kitchen for the loungeroom. He approached Kerro awaiting his dismissal.
“Draw me a bath and go to bed.” The man demanded and Ryou nodded, before quickly making his way to the bathroom. He flied the bath making sure it was a decent temperature and added the bath salts and oils. He then dried his hands and made his way to his room. He stopped in the loungeroom.
“Master, your bath is drawn.” He called and the man grunted before getting up and heading for the bathroom.
Ryou sighed before continuing towards his small dark room. Bakura and Yami had joined Marik in looking up at a small barred window and they smiled lightly when light flooded through the bars, but quickly disappeared as the door was closed. They heard shuffling and grunting as Ryou climbed onto the cage he slept in so he could reach the window. He stuck his hand through the bars and was immediately comforted by the warmth of Bakura’s hand.
“Love, where is Kerro?” Bakura whispered and Ryou squeezed his hand.
“He is in the bath now.” Ryou whispered back and Marik spoke up.
“What is the quietest way out of the house?” Marik asked and Ryou hummed.
“Master’s bedroom window is always open and the large tree is right beside it, but I can’t climb… It hurts too much.” Ryou whimpered and Bakura whined upset by Ryou’s pain.
“Go up there, if you can at least get into the tree, we can get you down.” Yami said and Ryou nodded before squeezing Bakura’s hand and retracting his back through the window, struggling followed by light then darkness told Ryou’s escape from the room.
“What do you plan to do Yami?” Bakura asked and the teen smirked.
“You’re the one who said he was very light.” He commented before walking towards the tree that stretched towards a window on the second floor, Marik and Bakura following.
Ryou carefully made his way up the stairs, avoiding all the ones that he knew creaked before sneaking down the hall and slipping through Kerro’s ajar bedroom door. He quickly crossed the plush carpet and leaned out the window, Marik, Yami and Bakura were waiting below. He sighed before gripping the branch and pulling himself out onto the sturdy wood. He slowly inched towards the trunk and softly called down.
“What now?” He asked and Yami smirked.
“Let go.” He called up and Ryou gawked at him.
“What! No!” He yelped softly and Marik smirked.
“Don’t you trust that Bakura will catch you?” He asked semi-serious and Ryou frowned before locking eyes with Bakura. The teen was holding out his arms directly beneath him, ready to catch him when he let go.
“A-Alright.” Ryou stuttered, he slowly lowered himself so he hung from the branch by his arms. He squeezed his eyes shut and let go.
Chapter 14
Ryou yelped as his back made contact with the hard muscles in Bakura’s arms. He immediately flung his arms around Bakura and nuzzled into his neck, releasing soft sobs. Marik being the biggest of the three dressed teens pulled off his shirt and wrapped it as best he could around Ryou before the four teens quickly left the yard, Bakura got into the passenger seat of Marik’s car and cradled Ryou close to him. Rubbing the shaking teens back and rocking him in hopes of soothing his distressed state. Marik got in the driver’s seat as Yami slid into the back, both glanced worriedly at the two whitettes.
"Bakura..." Marik asked softly and the elder teen just nodded, pulling the shaking form in his lap closer to him and tucking his face in the youngers ruffled white hair.
Marik nodded sadly before he pulled off the curb and headed towards Bakura's house. The drive was silent apart from Ryou's whimpers and Bakura's soft cooing. When they pulled into the driveway of Bakura's house the elder white quickly got out of the car and headed to the front door, followed closely by Marik and Yami. The blonde went to call out to the two teens in the house when Bakura thumped his knee against the door frame and a click sounded from the door, he nudged the door open with his shoulder and headed straight upstairs, dodging as he passed a worried Yugi and Malik. The two youngers looked to Marik and Yami questioningly.
"They will be alright, we have work to do." Marik assured as he wrapped his arm around Malik's shoulder and led him into the loungeroom, Yami and Yugi following closely behind.
"So what have you found out so far?" Yami asked as walked into the kitchen to grab a drink. Yugi slid into a seat at the table and continued his work on the laptop. Malik ducked out of Marik's hold and took his hand, pulling the elder over to the table, beside the laptop was a pile of papers spread over the table. Malik picked up one of the top papers and skimmed over it.
"He guy is clean." He muttered before looking over at Marik who moved to stand beside him. "Did you get the..." Malik started, but stopped when Marik drew the box cutter from his back pocket and lay it over the papers, The knife, which Yami untucked from his pants also joined it. Yugi's fingers froze ion the keys and his eyes widened at the size of the knife. Yami placed a comforting had on his shoulder and silence filled the room. It was broken by the sound of water running upstairs.
Bakura carried Ryou into the bathroom after gathering some clothes and a towel for the younger. He laid the towel over the edge of the bath and sat the clothes on the basin before unwrapping the youngers arms from his neck and sitting him lightly on the toilet seat. The younger whimpered, shifting to try and lessen the pain.
"I'm sorry love but I need both hands." Bakura whispered in apology before he knelt down and drew some bottles and a cloth from the cabinet before turning on the bath taps and adjusting the heat of the water. With the water tempered and running, Bakura moved back over to Ryou and attempted to pull Marik's shirt from the youngers grasp but pale fingers tightened on the shielding fabric and the smaller teen whimpered, backing further into the cool porcelain of the toilet seat. "It's ok love, I just need to check your injuries before helping you to the bath." Bakura whispered soothingly and Ryou's grip loosened allowing Bakura to lightly remove the fabric, which he then laid on the floor beside him. Ryou flinched when Bakura's hands rested lightly on his shoulders, he tried to draw away from the touch as his hands started to trail down thin biceps but Bakura just cooed lightly and continued to check the younger over. He checked over the youngers arms, shoulders and back before carefully checking his chest and stomach. Ryou whined lowly when Bakura's fingers brushed over his partially bruised stomach, healed in places and darkened in others from the three separate kicks he had received in less than a week. Finding no more than the bruise across his stomach, Bakura moved down to the youngers legs avoiding his hips. Once satisfied he had checked the younger's body he moved up to look into the youngers sad, slightly frightened eyes and lay his hand against the youngers flushed cheek. His eyes trailed to the cut above the youngers left eye and he frowned slightly, the wound had stopped bleeding and the blood already shed had dried and crusted on his pale skin. Bakura stood up slowly, before placing a light kiss on Ryou's forehead before holding out his arms to the younger. Ryou looked at his hands sadly before looking down at his own which had been curled in his lap since the shirt had been taken away. "Love let me help you into the bath..." Bakura cooed softly as he softly rested his hand against the youngers exposed wrist, when he attempted to pull the arm from its protective position across the youngers lower half, Ryou let out a distressed noise and Bakura pulled his arms back and sighed, he returned his left hand to the youngers cheek, getting the attention of the dulled green eyes he loved so much. "You do not need to hide yourself from me kitten, I told you. I love you and nothing will change that, I just want to help." Bakura reassured and smiled lightly when Ryou gave a small nod, before raising shaking hands. He wrapped his trembling fingers around the hand resting against his cheek and Bakura noted that the youngers eyes seemed to brighten even just alittle. His smiled grew as he lightly retracted his hand from the youngers grasp and lightly pulled the younger to his feet. On unsteady limbs, Ryou stumbled slightly gripping onto Bakura's shoulders to help stabilize himself. He smiled lightly when Bakura's arms snaked around his lower back to give him more support, then Bakura helped the younger over to tub, taking the brunt of the youngers weight as he stepped over the side before slowly lowering Ryou into the water. The teen yelped and hissed as his abused body was hit with the steamy water, he clung to Bakura's arm not wanting to be let go and Bakura quickly reached over to stop the flow of the water, which now reached the edge of the bath.
"Love, please try to relax, your safe now." Bakura whispered, rubbing his hand along the youngers back trying to help him relax. Slowly Ryou's grip on his hand loosened and Bakura smiled reassuringly to him before moving to gather the cloth he had brought with him. He frowned as he caught sight of the toilet seat where the other had been resting while he drew the bath, the white porcelain was covered in blood and... He flinched as he realized what the second substance on the seat was and a low growl grew in his chest. Ryou jumped at the noise but calmed when Bakura quickly turned back to his side and laid a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"Sorry love, I didn't mean to scare you." He whispered a Ryou nodded, turning to watch as Bakura dunked the cloth into the soapy water and drew it to his shoulder before lightly brushing the cloth over his pale skin. Ryou's eyes closed and his head lay back at the soft touch of Bakura washing him. Bakura smiled at the younger as he continued cleaning him, dunking the cloth in the bath water every so often to refresh the wetness and soapiness in the cloths threads. He cleaned the youngers left arm before dragging the cloth across the youngers neck, washing lightly over the youngers scar before continuing down his right arm. He then proceeded to wash the youngers shoulders and neck before dunking the cloth, squeezing the water from it and delicately cleaning the youngers face, wiping away the dried blood and sweat marring the pale skin. Bakura cooed softly to Ryou as he started to wash the youngers chest and bruised stomach, the whitette bit his lip, releasing a moan of pain as the cloth brushed over the tender skin. Delaying the hardest part the longest, Bakura laid his hand between the youngers shoulder blades and lightly pushed him forward so he could access the youngers back.
"Kitten, I'm going to try and relieve some of the tension and pressure in your lower back alright." Bakura warned as he started to wash the youngers back. As he neared the youngers lower back his hand had delved beneath the hot water, spreading his fingers out, he lightly dug his tips into Ryou's tender flesh and began needing the skin and muscles. Ryou released a low moan of appreciation at the elder’s actions and rested his head against Bakura's shoulder with his eyes closed and his mouth parted in a pleasurable pant. Bakura continued his soothing actions only stopping once he noticed Ryou was starting to drift off to sleep.
"Kitten, please try to stay awake till I'm finished cleaning you." Bakura whispered and Ryou gave a soft nod, sighing when Bakura's hands retracted from the pleasurable pressure he was receiving. "I know you are still shaken with what has happened and despite my best attempts you still seem to doubt my love Kitten, but I just want to help." Bakura spoke lightly as he freshened the cloth before lowering his hand beneath the water at Ryou's front, brushing lightly against the youngers lower stomach before lowering further. Another distressed whine fell from Ryou at the light touch against his manhood and he gripped the side of the bath with one hand, his other hand shifted from Bakura's shoulder to delve into the elders white locks, where he gripped the silky strands as he attempted to hold himself still as Bakura cleaned him. Despite his worry and pain, Ryou couldn't help but release a soft moan as Bakura lightly stroked him, ensuring he cleaned the younger properly. Just as he was about to pull his hand back to clean another part of the youngers lower regions a pale hand grasped his wrist and held the larger hand against his member. Startled blue met alluring green and the younger smiled at him.
"Kura... Please, help me erase their touch." Ryou whispered, his eyes shining with tears, Bakura continued to try and retract his hand before Ryou's spare hand reached up and touched his cheek, before pulling his head down to the youngers lips. They met in a tender kiss and when Ryou pulled back he shifted slightly to whisper in the elder’s ear. "Touch me..."
"Are... Are you sure?" Bakura stuttered, the younger pulled back and nodded, shifting the hand gripping Bakura's wrist so the elders hand pushed harder against his member.
"I only want you touching me in such a way." Ryou responded and Bakura nodded before leaning forward to gently kiss the other, his hand discarded the cloth in the water and lightly wrapped around the semi-hard erection in his palm. He slowly stroked the abused flesh kneading it beneath his skilled touch as he pleasured the younger. Ryou moaned freely into the kiss lightly bucking his hips into the elder’s hand. He winced as the action jarred his lower back and backside and Bakura frowned, pulling back from the kiss, Ryou whined when his hand stopped stroking him but a finger to his lips widened his eyes as he looked at Bakura with sad confusion.
"I will pleasure you Kitten, but the bath cannot be very comfortable. Allow me to finish cleaning you, then I will continue this on the bed, it will be more comfortable there." Bakura said softly and Ryou nodded, squeezing his eyes shut as Bakura recollected the cloth and approached the area he was trying to avoid. He flinched when Bakura made contact with his abused rear, the elder’s actions were tender as he washed Ryou's cheeks and entrance, brushing the youngers erection with his forearm as he moved. A tear fell down Ryou's cheek as Bakura worked and the elder softly apologized, finishing quickly before sweeping over Ryou's legs and finishing with his clean by softly washing the youngers hair. Once done he drained the bath and gathered Ryou up in a soft towel, Ryou's arms flung around his neck as he was carried bridal-style from the bathroom and into Bakura's bedroom. Bakura lightly lay the younger against his black silk sheets and stood back. He looked down at his bloodied sleeve from where Ryou's rump had bleed on him as he carried the younger home and looked back to Ryou who was watching him with anxiety and worry.
"I will just change my top love then I will be right back." Bakura whispered and Ryou shook his head holding out his arms for the elder. Bakura looked at him confused but approached the younger, he was surprised when Ryou pulled him forward by the collar of his top, smashing their lips together with a moan. "Kitten, I really don't want to be reminded of what happened, the blood brings it to the forefront of my mind." Bakura whispered but Ryou didn't relent, instead the youngers fingers fumbled with the buttons of his top, quickly discarding the stained material and tossing it away. Bakura was stunned when Ryou yanked him over himself, the elders knees positioned between the youngers legs, their chests resting lightly against each other. When Ryou finally released Bakura from the brusing kiss, both were flushed and panting.
"Are you sure about this kitten?" Bakura whispered as he softly kissed Ryou's neck.
"Yes, please. I want to feel you." Ryou whimpered as he tightened his legs around Bakura's lower half and grinded up against him with a low moan.
"Alright," Bakura relented before pulling back and looking Ryou in the eyes. "But if you me to stop, you must tell me and I will. I will not force you into anything." Ryou nodded at the elders words and released a deep moan when Bakura's lips returned to his neck.
Bakura nuzzled into Ryou's throat and nipped him lightly before kissing his way slowly down Ryou's neck and chest. He lightly licked at the youngers left nipple, nipping and sucking the bud as his hand fondled the right one. Ryou had delved his left hand into Bakura's hair as he bit down on his right breathing heavily through his nose. Bakura lapped at the peaked nub once more before moving to give the right nipple the same attention, fondling the left. When done, he nuzzled Ryou's chest before continuing south, lapping and kissing the youngers bruised stomach before bruising his fingers across Ryou's lower stomach. He moved lower nipping and kissing at Ryou's right inner thigh before he retracted to look up at Ryou. The teen was resting on his right elbow, left hand still buried in Bakura's hair, his head was thrown back, mouth slightly agape as he panted in pleasure, still trying to hold in his moans. Bakura grinned before lowering his gaze again and blowing lightly over the now fully erect member. Ryou's breath hitched and he opened his eyes to look down at Bakura who returned the gaze lovingly. Without breaking eye contact, Bakura licked from base to slit before taking the tip into his mouth and sucking lightly. Ryou couldn't hold back and more and his pleased moans caressed Bakura's ears as the elder slowly lowered down the youngers length, twirling his tongue and sucking strongly on the erect member. Ryou started bucking up into the heat of Bakura's mouth, but the elder held his hips down as he began to bob his head. Feeling Ryou reaching his end, Bakura abruptly pulled back and when Ryou went to complain, the elders hand wrapped tightly around his member, stroking swiftly. Ryou seemed satisfied with the continued pleasure and began moaning again. Bakura took two fingers into his mouth and quickly lathered them in his saliva before retracting them and diving back on the youngers member, Ryou cried out in pleasure and Bakura allowed the younger to buck into his mouth, unrestrained. Ryou barely noticed Bakura's finger probing lightly at his entrance but he yelped when the thin appendage breached. To distract the younger, Bakura began to hum around the erect member and slowly started to thrust his finger into the youngers entrance. He twitched his finger around and smirked when Ryou let out a strangled cry. Bakura prodded the youngers prostate before retracting his finger only to push back in with a second beside it. Ryou moaned lightly in discomfort and Bakura doubled his efforts on the youngers member to distract him from what Bakura was doing. Bakura slowly shifted his fingers waiting for Ryou to adjust to the feeling. It wasn't long till Bakura was thrusting his fingers into the youngers prostate while Ryou was bucking into Bakura's mouth without abandon. Bakura relaxed his throat to take Ryou in deeper and swallowed around the member as Ryou thrust up, at the constricting feeling around his hard member, Ryou whined trying to thrust harder. He had never felt so much pleasure in his life, he felt like he was going to burst. Bakura knew he was close and doubled his efforts, breathing deeply through his nose Bakura hummed one more time and Ryou cried out his name as he came into Bakura's mouth. Bakura swallowed all the younger gave him before pulling back slightly and retracting his fingers. Ryou collapsed against the pillows, panting hard, his right hand still buried in the elder’s locks. Ryou jolted when Bakura began to lick him clean, he sighed in contempt when Bakura kissed his member one more time before shifting up the bed until he was lying nose to nose with Ryou. He nuzzled into Ryou's face before kissing him lightly.
"Kitten, you should rest now." He whispered as he took in the youngers drooped eyes and exhausted breathing. Ryou nodded sleepily and Bakura rolled to the side before pulling Ryou to him so the younger rested over his chest. Ryou curled one arm up against his stomach, the other wrapped around Bakura's neck, his face nuzzled into the elder’s throat. Bakura had one arm wrapped securely around Ryou's waist, the other bent behind his head as he watched the younger drift off to sleep. At peace for the first time since that morning.
Chapter 15
"Kitten, you should rest now." He whispered as he took in the youngers drooped eyes and exhausted breathing. Ryou nodded sleepily and Bakura rolled to the side before pulling Ryou to him so the younger rested over his chest. Ryou curled one arm up against his stomach, the other wrapped around Bakura's neck, his face nuzzled into the elder’s throat. Bakura had one arm wrapped securely around Ryou's waist, the other bent behind his head as he watched the younger drift off to sleep. At peace for the first time since that morning.
“I thought you said you would try to be more involved with your classes!” the principal yelled at Ryou as he sat in his office after being sent out of his classroom for the second time today.
Ryou just snorted at the man and looked away thinking about why he was here. He really didn’t care much for classes, he only really came to school for two reasons. To get away from the hell chamber he was unfortunate enough to call home and to see his friends, Marik, Malik, Yami & Yugi. They had been friends since Ryou moved to Blackwater when he was 7, but as of late they only see each other in school, with the five friends being busy with their own problems and the two couples spending time together. Marik and Malik always had something to do or somewhere to go. Yugi and Yami rarely left the house and that left Ryou alone outside of school. He himself had no other half, no one to care for and no family either, he was his only living relative and school was his only outlet to his life at home. He lived for the couple hours a day in which he could spend with his friends and not have a care in the world, talking, joking and generally having fun.
“Ryou!” the principal yelled at him drawing his mind out of its protective field of thoughts.
“What?” he asked still refusing to look at the man who only wished for his well-being. “If I see you in here again I will suspend you for a week understood? That way you’re bound to sleep.”
Ryou paled at the thought of spending the whole week by himself in that… that cage, with that man. If he spent longer than five minutes in that bruits presence he would surely be beaten. He looked back at the principal, fright, dread and sadness shining in his sea green depths. He thought he saw a flicker of guilt cross the principals face but when nothing else happened, he sighed deeply.
“Alright.” He whispered and stood to leave.
“Ryou?” he stopped when he heard his name and glanced sideways at the principal, his emotions still swirling in the void of his eyes. “I wish you would open up to one of us, or at least see the school councillor. It’s obvious you have problems at home but why won’t you let anyone help you?”
Ryou looked at the desperate expression on the man’s face and grunted in annoyance. He continued towards the door, he opened it and stopped just through the threshold, hand still on the handle.
“I’m not as weak as you portray me to be.” He whispered tightening his grip in the handle. “I’ll be 18 next week then it will all be over, so just let me be… I can take care of myself.”
He was just about to walk again when he heard the principal’s worried voice.
“I’ve gotten quite a few reports from worried class mates of yours. Some claiming that they have seen a new mar or bruise on you in the locker rooms. The most recent report, a caved scar spelling the word ‘Whore’. I can’t assume that they are telling the truth with what they saw and I also can’t say that they are lying. Which brings the thought that if they are not lying, someone else had to have marred your skin as you certainly would not have been able to reach.”
“I will repeat.” Ryou whispered before glaring and growling low. “Keep to yourself and leave me alone.”
Just as he left the room and a worried principal, the bell signalling home time rung throughout the school. He ran through the flooding hallways, out through the main doors and in the direction of his safe haven. The park he spent his afternoons and the better part of his weekends at. He slowed to a dawdle, hands in pockets, eyes watching his feet below him as he approached the opening where his usual bench sat. Just as it came into view he froze where he was, sitting at his bench was himself… No, the being sitting there was older but only by a few months, a year at most. He seemed a lot rougher then Ryou, his hair wasn’t as tame and his build was more masculine then feminine like his own. Before Ryou could approach the boy, he had stood up and started to leave. Ryou watched him go and walked over to his bench, sitting down heavily on the wooden chair. He then let his head drop back as he breathed in deep, the scent of dragon’s blood flooded his senses and he sighed deeply. He spent the afternoon sitting there watching the people in the park play around carefree, wishing with all his might that he could be one of them, but he yelped jumping to his feet and taking off at a sprint when he noticed the sun setting. His teeth gnawed away at his bottom lip when he realised just how late he was. He skidded to a stop and leapt up onto the porch missing the two steps completely. A violent shudder ran down his spine as he heard the TV on through the front door. He placed his hand on the door knob, hesitating slightly before slowly pulling the door open. He released a yelp as he was grabbed roughly by the collar and pulled in, his only escape closing behind him.
Chapter 1
Ryou released a yelp as he felt his body crush up against the closest wall and a bigger body press up against him, the discovered male’s arousal grinding into his backside.
“You’re late!” The male’s voice growled low. “You’ve kept me waiting… In this condition no less.” He ground his arousal against Ryou to get his point across.
Ryou shuttered at the disgusting feeling and yelped again as he was pushed from the wall onto his hands and knees.
“I’m sorry master, I was at the park and lost track of time.” He whimpered and the days held back tears streamed down his pale cheeks.
The male pulled both his and Ryou’s pants down in one swift movement, then ground his arousal into Ryou’s backside again.
“And for that you let me get worked up waiting for your pretty little ass to get home. You will have to be punished.” The man rubbed his thumb over the carving on Ryou’s right hip just above his cheek. “Hum… How will I punish you this time?”
“I don’t know master, but I promise you, it won’t happen again.” Ryou pleaded but the man just laughed at him shifting his tip across Ryou’s tight ring of muscle.
“I know it won’t…” He grunted, then moaned lightly for what was to come. He ran his hand up Ryou’s sides, stroking them almost gently. “You are beginning to look a little big for my liking.” He mused shifting his hand from Ryou’s side to his slightly built stomach and Ryou whimpered, he knew all too well what it meant. “Your punishment will be no food for the next week.” Ryou winced as the man gripped his hips roughly, running his calloused hands over them. He wasn’t gaining weight, he was building up his muscles in a failed attempt to protect his fragile body.
“Yes master…” He answered and the man behind him chuckled again.
“Good little whore.” He said almost sickeningly sweet. “Now stay still.”
Ryou knew it was just to get him to lower his guard and he braced himself, willing his mind elsewhere in an attempt to numb the oncoming pain. He shrieked in agony as the man behind him drove into him with one swift thrust of his hips, burying to the hilt.
“God, it doesn’t matter how many times I take you, you still feel so darn good.” He moaned as Ryou continued to cry out in pain.
Giving him no time to adjust, not even the slightest. The man withdrew from Ryou almost completely, only to drive back in, each thrust gaining in speed and force. Ryou yelped with each stroke, tears pooling around his hands as he felt blood run down his thighs. He duly noted the man moaning as he felt the man’s arousal glide into him with growing ease, The tearing feeling was starting to dull to a sharp sting signalling that he was teetering on the edge of consciousness and would fall any minute into a pain free sleep leaving his body to be abused. He dropped to his elbows, starting to feel lightheaded and almost screamed in frustration when he felt the man push in deep and freeze. A whimper fell from his lips as the man circled his hips against Ryou’s backside just relishing in the heat of Ryou’s small body. Ryou growled low, the bruit was prolonging the moment as long as he could just to torture him. The pain still streaking throughout his body was making it hard for him to relax during the man’s abrupt pause. He yelped when a calloused hand took hold of his member, roughly stroking it in an attempt to bring it to life. A horrified look crossing his face just like it did every other night. He hated the man for trying to make the daily rapings intimate, it made him feel sick to his stomach. The man chuckled as he removed his hand from Ryou’s still limp member and withdrew, continuing his fast pace while stroking over Ryou’s hips. It wasn’t long till he felt the man’s strong, steady thrusts falter before regaining posture and becoming violent signalling that the experience was almost over. The man removed his left hand from Ryou's hips and yanked back on his hair moving so his lips were positioned by Ryou’s ear.
“Scream for me!” He whispered in a way that promised pain if he didn’t comply.
Ryou shook as the man’s breath and words stung his ears and released a slight whimper but otherwise didn’t respond. The man yanked back on Ryou’s hair and drove into him slightly harder than his previous thrusts and Ryou released a yelp but he knew the man wouldn’t be satisfied till he did as instructed. He lightly attempted to tug his hair from the man’s grip but the man only pulled back harder. The force pulled Ryou’s neck to an almost unnatural angle and he released a howl of agony. He heard the please chuckle from the man and then braced as he felt his torturer move at an almost frantic pace, his release approaching rapidly. Ryou sighed mentally knowing it was almost over but continued to cry out hoping that the man would respond faster if he continued to obey the man’s order that promised pain. He whimpered when he felt the man slow down wanting to prolong the moment and almost panicked. He thrust himself back and cried out as the man’s arousal reached deeper then he would have liked. Despite the pulsing pain that had become worse from the new depth, Ryou squeezed down pulling out and thrusting back down one more time, the action forcing a deep moan to erupt and he felt a couple more deep thrusts follow as the man released his seed into Ryou’s torn passage. He yelped when he felt the man pull out roughly and collapse against his fragile frame, both of them hitting the hard ground.
“Master…” Ryou choked out, he couldn’t breathe under the man’s heavy weight. “Master, I can’t breathe!”
The man stirred slightly and lifted himself off Ryou with a grunt. He stood up and staggered slightly on his feet then looked down at Ryou who had shifted up onto his hands and knees again. He kicked Ryou in the stomach and started towards the lounge room. Ryou yelped and dropped down onto his left elbow holding his stomach with his free hand. He watched the man walk into the lounge room and sighed. ‘It could have been worse.’ He then struggled to his feet, pulled up his track pants and walked into the lounge room. He watched the man drop onto the leather lounge and focus onto the TV. Not really sure what to do he slowly approached him awaiting an order.
“Slave.” He jumped hearing the man’s voice and looked down at his feet.
“Yes master?” He whispered timidly.
“Go make dinner and then go to bed.”
“Yes master…” He answered walking into the kitchen.
After discovering that they were running low on food supplies. He filled a pot with water and boiled noodles. When it was finished he placed the bowl on the dining table, washed the pot and walked back into lounge room.
“Your dinner is on the table, also master, we are running low on food. If it pleases you, tomorrow after school I can go get more, so you do not go without of cause.” He bowed and the man looked at him with an uninterested expression.
“Very well I will leave money for the food, buy yourself anything and you will regret it.” He said getting up and going into the kitchen for his dinner.
“Yes, of cause, goodnight master.” He bowed and ran towards his room.
The room was dark and had no light switch, there were shutters on the only window and in the centre of the room was a cage. Ryou sighed to himself and walked over to the cage where he curled up on the only other object in the room, a small pillow, one of his very few positions. His body shook as he lay awake, unable to sleep. He let his mind wander to the park and the slightly darker version of himself, he hoped that he could meet the boy one day, but knowing his luck he never would.
Chapter 2
He didn’t know how long he had lay there, in his cage thinking about the boy from the park. His eyes were trained on the door that lead out to the hallway. After a few minutes he got up and slowly approached it. He creaked it open and peeked outside. Light streamed through the hallway window and the man’s bedroom door was closed, meaning he’s already left for work. A sigh of relief fell from Ryou’s lips and he quickly ran down the hall and into the bathroom, shutting and locking the door behind him. He walked over to the shower, opening the glass door and turning on the water testing and adjusting the sprays temperature. He pulled off his shirt, tossing it into the stream of heaven, then proceeded to tug his track pants from his legs, wincing as the sticky material pulled at his tender skin. He stepped into the already steamy shower and dropped his pants down by his shirt, moaning as the steamy water hit his sensitive skin. He didn’t care that he would get raped and beaten if the master found out about his secret shower. It was worth it. He picked up his dirty, bloody clothing and started to scrub them clean using the strawberry scented bar of soap resting in the soap holder. He smiled slightly to himself as the blood stains came out leaving his close similar to yesterday’s condition before the encounter. After he was happy with his cloths he hung them over the edge of the bathtub and then looked down at himself. His lightly ran his fingers over the greenish-purple bruise gracing his midriff from the kick he had received after that monster had finished with him the previous night, similar but lighter bruises also graced his hips. He sighed, there was no way he could hide them this time, he had ran out of concealer and would have to wait till tomorrow before he could get any more from his friends. Not wanting to delay his leave any longer he stepped back under the spray of the of water retrieving the soap from where he had lay it after finishing his clothes. He looked down at the bar that was both a pleasure and a pain and smiled, he used the soap to cleanse his body of the daily beatings and raping but the use of the soap just triggered more punishment. He closed his eyes and stretched his neck out facing towards the ceiling letting the water run over his face and hair as he slowly started to scrub his skin as clean as possible, wincing as he cleaned his more sensitive areas that needed more scrubbing than anywhere else on his entire body. Once his body was thoroughly scrubbed he shook his wet hair about and started washing it, using his fingers to comb out any knots that looked dangerously close to needing help from scissors. When he felt clean he turned off the spray of water and stepped out to look at himself again in the mirror, in all truth he looked no different than before he got in the shower, except now he was drowned. He picked up the hand towel and dried his body relaying the now wet material back where he found it. His eyes strayed from his reflection down to his wet clothes, a shiver making its way through his body. He picked up the now clean clothes and rung them dry before relaying them on his person. Looking down at the wet clothes now adorning his slim figure he frowned and left the room.
Making his way down the hallway and out into the lounge room he located the money he had asked about last night before being dismissed. A rock was placed on top of the 50 dollar bill along with a note. He walked over and picked up the note not surprised by what it said.
“Slave, I’ve left you $50 to get ME some food, don’t even think about spending any of it on yourself. Your punishment for being late home yesterday, don’t forget, no food for a week! Disobey me and you will pay severely!
You know what to buy but I also want some beer, remember slave! Don’t you dare forget!
I expect this note, the receipt and my change when you get home! Forget anything and well, you know what will happen to you.”
He picked up the money, stuffed it, along with the note into his wet pants pocket and made his way out of the house. He walked briskly down the sidewalk only slowing down when the school was up ahead and the twin dark-skinned blonds came into view, obviously waiting out the front for him and he’s other friends.
“Morning guys.” He greeted approaching them with a smile and a limp in his step.
“Ryou.” The smaller of the two blonds smiled taking Ryou into his arms for a gentle hug.
“How are you today Ry.” The older blond asked with slight concern.
“Sore and tired like usual but I’m ok, I managed to sneak in a nice shower this morning.” Ryou answered grinning at him over the younger blonds shoulder. As he went to pull away from said blond, he felt the others grip tighten and a nose nuzzle its way into his hair. The other breathed in deep moaning his approval. “Mmmmm, strawberries.”
“Malik!” Ryou giggled swatting the other teen away as two others approached the three. The smallest of the duo pulling Ryou into a hug similar to Malik’s. “Yugi…” Ryou greeted returning the embrace, his eyes following an older version of the teen in his arms as he made his way to stand beside Marik. Ryou pulled out of his smallest friends embrace greeting his last friend with a smile. “Morning Yami.”
Yami responded with a nod in his direction but otherwise seemed distracted by something, what he couldn’t tell.
With Malik on his left, Yugi on his right and the eldest two trailing behind, Ryou and his friends entered the school gates and headed towards the doors.
“So Ryou… Did you hear the news, there’s supposed to be a new student joining your class today.” Yugi piped up.
“Really…” Ryou asked, not really interested but grateful for the break of silence.
“An Egyptian from what I’ve heard.” Malik added as they entered the school doors and headed towards their lockers. “I think his name is… Umm… Something like, Kura, or something.”
Ryou giggled at his friends choice of words and Malik mock glared at him. He pulled up by his locker, his friends following suit.
“You going to be ok squirt?” Ryou heard Marik’s distinct voice ask and he smiled reassuringly.
“Of cause. See you all at break.” He waved off the others concern and turned to his locker.
Marik nodded understandingly and he, Malik, Yugi & Yami split up to go to their own lockers and retrieve their stuff before class. Ryou pulled open his locker and retrieved the book and pen placed in its centre, leaving his locker empty. Looking at the two items in his hands he remembered the beating and raping he had received as punishment for ‘borrowing’ $4 to purchase them and smiled. It was well worth it. He closed his empty locker and headed towards his classroom. As always he was the first person, aside from the teacher to enter the room. Glancing at all the empty desks he made his way up the back and slid into his chair. Sitting in the aisle seat in the back left corner of the room he glanced down at the desk beside him up against the wall and placed his book and pen down on the unoccupied chair.
“Ryou…” He glanced up as his teachers kind, sweet voice found him and he frowned at the worried look marring the woman’s face.
“Yes miss?” he asked politely. He knew what she was going to ask him and it made him slightly annoyed but he smiled for her sake, she was only worried for his welfare after all.
“I trust you have had enough sleep to stay awake throughout today.” Her voice was soft and she was obviously being careful where she was treading with her statement.
“I have miss,” he lied, he was quiet tired not sleeping a wink last night. “I’m well rested.”
A look of relief passed over the teachers face as she nodded, then tilted her head slightly regarding her pale student.
“Also we have a new student joining us today and seems your ahead of the class I would like you to show him around.” Ryou nodded and then watched as a smile graced his teachers lips as she went back to what she was doing.
Ryou’s attention strayed from her to the clock. He watched the hand ticking with each passing second and didn’t register that his eyes were drifting shut.
Chapter 3
He was jolted awake as someone bumped his arm whilst passing him towards their own desk, the bell had obviously gone as the classroom was full of chatting students, the teacher was looking at him with worry but he only smiled and opened his book flipping to the back page and rubbing out his previous writing to fill out today’s update, he signed the passage with today’s date just as the teacher spoke up
“Alright class, settle.” She called and everyone sat down as the talking died away, all eyes to the front.
There was a knock at the door and an elderly woman entered the classroom followed by the boy from the park. Ryou’s breath hitched as he watched the boy follow the elderly woman over to the teacher. The boy glanced over the class eyes landing on Ryou with slight shock, probably because of their resemblance. The boy then looked back at the teacher. A few more whispers were passed between the teacher and the elderly woman, then everyone watched the old lady leave before turning their attention back to the teacher and new student.
“Class.” The teacher said and she motioned for the boy to approach her. “This is Bakura.” She shuffled through some papers on her desk before handing a folded piece to the boy. He glanced down at it, confirming what it was then pocketed it. “He just recently moved here from Egypt.”
Slight chatter filled the room as the boy, Bakura turned to face the class. Ignoring the shocked and excited whispers that flooded the room, his eyes trailed up the classroom and landed on Ryou again, a small smile crossing his face.
“Bakura,” The teacher called and Bakura looked back at her, “You will sit up the back beside Ryou.” She said gesturing towards the spare desk by Ryou, Bakura’s eyes once again fell on the smaller version of himself who seemed to have gained a nice blush. “Ryou will also show you around today as well. Does that sound ok with you?” She asked looking at Bakura.
“Of cause miss, I don’t have a problem.” He said as he walked up the back sliding gracefully behind Ryou’s chair, into his seat by the wall and leaned back without looking at him.
Ryou thought about saying something but went against it. He shifted in his chair slightly and winced as pain shot up his back. ‘Damn the pain killers are wearing off.’ He though as a small whimper escaped his lips. He curled against the edge of his desk, laying his head on his hands. Bakura glanced down at Ryou, noticing him wince and whimper worriedly. The teacher had started the lesson but he didn’t care to listen, he shifted and leaned down to whisper into Ryou’s ear.
“Are you alright little one?” He asked brushing a loose strand of pure white hair behind Ryou’s ear.
“I’m… I’m fine.” He whispered back grinding his teeth together as he sat back up eyes squeezed shut.
He dug his hand into his pocket and pulled out the note and money, placing it on his desk before diving back to retrieve his painkillers. Bakura watched as Ryou took two of them and discretely placed them in his mouth swallowing without any liquid help. He gagged silently as the tablets protested in his dry mouth and whimpered again trying desperately to swallow the now stuck tablets. Bakura handed him a drink which he gladly took and swallowed the liquid sighing as the tablets dislodged and slid down his neck in a flow of cordial.
“Better?” Bakura asked retrieving his bottle and Ryou nodded leaning back in his chair.
“Thank you.” Ryou whispered rubbing his hand on his slender throat and then his face went pale.
His hand rose into the air waving about in a desperate attempt to get the teachers attention.
“Ryou.” The teacher looked over at him confused, her eyes shifted to Bakura who couldn’t tell her anything more than she knew.
“Miss can I please be excused.” He asked hopeful and the teacher just sighed, she walked over to him and Bakura so the class didn’t have to hear.
On the teachers approach Ryou’s eyes shot to the paper and money on the desk which he franticly stuffed back into his pocket like it was a lifeline. Bakura looked down at him confused by his behaviour but Ryou’s attention was on the teacher. She knelled down placing her hands on his desk, and lowered her voice.
“This doesn’t have anything to do with your limping does it?” She asked and Ryou shook his head.
“I’m really sorry miss, I know I shouldn’t be interrupting the class like this again, it’s just I really need to…” He sighed and looked away from her. “You wouldn’t understand.”
Both Bakura and the teacher looked at Ryou worriedly. He just looked back at the teacher with pleading eyes.
“Please…” He whimpered and the teacher sighed.
“Bakura, go with him.” She said and Bakura nodded.
Ryou practically leapt from his chair running from the classroom, with the worried eyes of his class following him. The teacher walked to the front of the classroom watching as Bakura walked out the door after Ryou. She sighed and continued on with the lesson. Ryou was walking fast, head in the direction of the bathroom. He jumped in fright when a hand rested on his shoulder.
“Ryou…” Bakura’s smooth voice flowed over him and he sighed with relief.
“Oh, it’s just you.” Ryou whispered, he bumped Bakura’s hand off his shoulder and continued on his way. “You probably don’t want to see this, so I suggest you go back to the classroom.”
“No, the teacher told me to come with you.” Bakura said sternly and Ryou just shook his head.
“Fine, be that way.” He growled as he turned into the men’s bathroom followed closely by a confused Bakura.
Ryou walked over to the sinks and jolted himself up onto the bench, he then threw his head back, and eyes closed and massaged his throat. Bakura lent against the wall by the door, waiting for Ryou. He watched him with a confused expression. After a minute Ryou jumped down and lent over the sink shoving his finger down his throat and heaving in an attempt to remove the drink Bakura had offered him earlier from his system. Bakura pushed off the wall, ran over to Ryou and pulled his hand away from his mouth.
“What are you doing?” He growled using his other hand to lift Ryou’s face to his.
“Please, stop… I have to do this, otherwise…” he whimpered in both fright and pain.
Bakura pulled Ryou’s body towards himself and hugged him close.
“What could be worth forcing yourself to throw up?” He asked and Ryou just shook his head.
“I can’t tell you… I can’t tell anyone.” His arms wrapped around Bakura, gripping to his source of comfort and Bakura just petted his hair.
“What brought this on?” He asked and Ryou’s body just shuttered. Bakura sighed and used his finger to lift Ryou’s face, looking into Ryou’s tear filled green eyes. “Little one…” He whispered, “Please don’t do this to yo urself.”
Ryou sighed laying his head against Bakura’s chest with his eyes closed. “Alright… I won’t. Just no more questions.” Bakura nodded and he released Ryou from his hug.
“Thank you.” He whispered then he turned and started to leave.
Ryou looked at Bakura with a smile. ‘Getting beat for this, it would be worth it.’ Ryou walked up beside Bakura who took his hand in a comforting grip and they headed back towards the classroom. Bakura released Ryou’s hand at the door to the classroom.
“You going to be ok?” He asked looking down at Ryou with a smile.
“For now, yes.” He whispered and passed Bakura to open the door.
Chapter 4
The teacher looked up as Ryou and Bakura entered and headed for their seats, she looked at Bakura who nodded reassuringly and she smiled. Ryou slid into his seat turning to the back of his book and scribbling down something before flipping to the front. Bakura missed what he had written and was slightly worried. He sat down watching Ryou fiddle with his pen. When the bell went and everyone headed to the locker rooms to get changed for pe Ryou walked in the opposite direction closely followed by Bakura.
“Where are we going?” He asked as Ryou only just noted Bakura had followed him.
“You should have followed the class.” He scolded and Bakura just smiled.
“Now why would I do that when you’re supposed to show me around.” He smiled as Ryou just shook his head, turning into the front office, he approached the front desk with a smile.
“Morning miss.” He greeted and the lady stood up ruffling his hair affectionately, she then walked into the room just to their left.
Bakura looked at Ryou confused but he just smiled and shook his head. The woman returned with a pe uniform and handed it to Ryou.
“Nice and clean for you.” She smiled and Ryou thanked her before leaving with Bakura in toe.
They walked silently through the hall and out into the quad towards the change room, when they entered everyone was already changed and outside.
“Thank god this place is empty, they’ve been watching me like a hawk.” He said as he walked over to part of the bench unoccupied by uniforms.
“What do you mean watching you ‘like a hawk’?” he asked but Ryou just laughed.
“Just our classmates. The principal has directed I be under watch.” He said quiet coldly as he pulled his shirt over his head.
Bakura sat down looking at Ryou, he couldn’t help his gaze trailing across his chest, noticing the scar over his heart, unable to stop himself his hand moved to brush over the scar, freezing Ryou in his place.
“What happened?” He asked applying a little more pressure as he caressed the scar with his thumb.
“I thought you agreed to no more questions.” Ryou groaned as he closed his eyes, reeling at Bakura’s gentle touch and Bakura sighed.
“Yeah I did…” He said retracting his hand back pulling Ryou from his own little world.
“It’s alright, I just… you can’t tell anyone, anything I tell you.” He said as he threw his gym shirt on and stripped his pants down.
“Of cause” Bakura whispered, he averted his gaze immediately when he realized Ryou didn’t have boxers on, a blush dying his cheeks bright red.
Ryou smiled slightly at his reaction but decided to save him some embarrassment and pulled on his gym shorts. He then pulled his hair back and tied it in a knot so it was out of the way. Smiling he turned and they both left to join the class. The lesson went fairly quickly and soon they found themselves back in the locker room. Bakura once again sat down as Ryou toed off his shoes. He noticed the eyes discretely watching Ryou from around the room. He was right, they were watching him like a hawk. Ryou pulled his shirt off again then glanced to the side, not at anyone in particularly but noting the eyes attempting to not get caught.
“I just want to thank who ever approached the principal about my newest scar. You’re a real pal.” He said his voice dripping with venom and a few of them flinched, he sighed and closed his eyes. “I’m sorry…” He apologised and he was approached by a blond kid slightly taller than him.
“Ry… don’t be mad at us… You know we just want to help.” He said and there were several yeahs echoed in the background.
“I know Joey…” Ryou nodded and sat down beside Bakura.
Everyone finished dressing and left quickly after that leaving Bakura and Ryou alone again. Ryou sighed and stood up looking down at his clothes. Bakura again grazed his fingers across the scar over Ryou’s heart.
“Is this the scar you spoke of?” He asked and Ryou looked at him with sad eyes before shaking his head.
“No, that scar is old… I’m ashamed of the scar I spoke of… I know I’m worthless but he didn’t have to imprint me with it.” He whispered and Bakura looked at him confused, Ryou took hold of Bakura’s hand and shifted it to the back of his right hip where he was branded.
Bakura traced the letters with his finger not believing what it said.
“What?” He said taking hold of Ryou’s hips and spinning him around to see the word he had felt. “Oh Ryou…” He whispered tracing the word ‘Whore’ With his finger. He turned Ryou around again and stood up pulling him in for a comforting hug.
“I’m not going to ask you who did it…” He said, his hand brushing across Ryou’s hair in a soothing manner. “Not until you decide you want to talk.”
“Thankyou…” Ryou whimpered into his chest grateful that he didn’t push it.
The bell went and Ryou pulled away swapping his gym shorts for his track pants then throwing his shoes back on, he walked with Bakura back to the front desk where he gave the lady his clothes, then they left to go out to the playground. Ryou spotted his group immediately, they were sitting under a tree away from everyone else, Ryou ran up to them and tackled Malik to the ground, Marik cracked up laughing when they rolled across the ground and smashed into the tree, Malik straddling Ryou’s hips. Malik nuzzled into Ryou’s neck and purred.
“How was class.” Yami asked and Ryou smiled.
“Better than usual.” He said throwing his weight forward so Malik fell back and Ryou was straddling his hips. Ryou returned the nuzzle adding an affectionate nip and Malik giggled.
“Ryou,” Marik called shaking his head at the two. “He’s mine remember.” Ryou sat directly on Malik’s crouch as he glanced mischievously at Marik.
“Feel left out?” He said shifting his hips lightly pulling a moan from his friend.
“Damn tease.” Marik muttered and Ryou, Yami and Yugi just laughed.
Ryou got up and walked over to Bakura who watched the encounter quietly just away from the group. Ryou took his hand and tugged him over to the group sitting down beside Malik who growled lightly at Bakura.
“Who are you?” he asked but yelped when Ryou smacked his head, Ryou leaned over so his lips were by Malik's ear and he nipped before whispering something.
Malik smiled at Bakura warmly. “Nice to meet you.” He bowed slightly and Bakura nodded in response.
“So…” Yugi growled. “Who is he?”
“Yugi…” Ryou pouted, “Be nice please.” He said faking a tear and Yugi got up and sat In his lap, nuzzling into his neck.
“I’m sorry, please don’t cry.” He whimpered and Yami just chuckled.
“Yugi, he wasn’t really crying, he was faking it.” He pointed out bluntly, Yugi pulled back to see the smile on Ryou’s face and glared.
“Oh don’t look at me like that Yugi.” He said and ruffled Yugi's hair.
“Alright, but don’t do that again. It’s not very nice.” He said as-a-matter-of-factly and Ryou laughed nodding.
“Ok.” Yugi got up from his lap and sat back down beside Yami. “Guys, this is Bakura. The new student from Egypt.” He said sparking interest from Yami and Marik.
“Egypt, huh. You look way to pale to be Egyptian.” Marik noted making Bakura laugh.
“Indeed, my complexion was kept fair by spend majority of my day inside, going about my daily business during the night.” He explained and Yami nodded.
“That too is how I kept my fair skin, but I’ve been here for so long no one would think anything of it. You on the other hand Marik.”
Marik looked down at himself and pouted. “Yeah, my skin got killed by the Egyptian sun.”
Malik swatted at his hand. “Don’t pout about it none of us could imagine you with pale skin.” He said and everyone nodded in agreement.
Bakura observed their interactions learning quickly that Ryou had been friends for quite some time with the others, and that he was really comfortable around them. Ryou, as well as Malik kept trying to drag Bakura into their discussions but he kept backing out first chance he got, the other three didn’t really seem to care.
Chapter 5
When the bell went Ryou stood up first stretching and yawning.
“You think you will make it the rest of the day awake?” Malik asked and Ryou shook his head.
“Nah probably not, but I promised my teacher that I had slept all night so I can’t fall asleep during class.” He pouted. “I’ll have to sleep at lunch time.”
Bakura noticed the sympathetic looks all his friends gave him but none of them questioned why he didn’t sleep. His first thought was they all know what was going on with Ryou, but he probably pouted till they agreed to secrecy.
“Kura.” Malik called, using his new pet name for Bakura. “Look after Ry for us, or else.” He growled and Bakura looked worried.
Ryou grabbed Bakura’s arm hauling him to his feet and shifted in front of him. “Malik, you’re scaring the poor guy.” He said waving him off and dragging Bakura away. “See you all at lunch.” He called over his shoulder and they all gave off sounds of approval.
Ryou let go of Bakura’s hand as they entered the building heading back to the classroom.
“They seem nice…” Bakura commented and Ryou picked up a bit of resistance in his voice.
“But?” He asked looking up at Bakura, for reasons he didn’t know, he wanted Bakura’s approval.
“I’m not saying it’s a bad thing but they don’t seem to worry about you…” he said cautiously and Ryou sighed.
“They do worry about me, you have no Idea how much, it’s just they... They are the only people who know what I refuse to share with others.” Ryou watched Bakura’s face drop as he spoke. “They have answers to the question’s you’ve asked me.” He explained and Bakura just nodded.
“I see…” He said sadness lacing his voice as he walked on slightly ahead of Ryou, entering the classroom first.
Ryou pouted, he had hurt Bakura’s feelings, and it made him feel really bad. He followed Bakura into the classroom and over to their seats. He sat down leaning back into his chair and closed his eyes.
“I’ll tell you…” he whispered and Bakura looked at him. Ryou's eyes opened slowly as he shifted his gaze over Bakura’s shocked face. “I’ll tell you, whatever you want to know. Answer any questions you have… Just not now, it’s Thursday... Give me till the weekend.” He said his voice a little louder so Bakura could hear, but low enough so only Bakura could hear. Bakura nodded and wrapped his hand around Ryou’s in a comforting hold.
“Alright.” He said and they settled in as class begin.
20 minutes had pass and Ryou had fallen asleep his head resting over his and Bakura’s joined hands. The teacher had noticed and went to regrettably wake him until Bakura stopped her with a hand gesture for her to approach.
“He didn’t sleep a wink last night. Let me handle it, he told me that he would answer my questions this weekend, if all goes well. Please overlook his sleep, he needs it badly and you already know he’s ahead.” He whispered so not to wake Ryou up and the teacher just nodded going back to teaching.
Bakura smiled down at Ryou’s sleeping face and moved his hair out of his eyes. He then noticed Ryou’s work book. Shifting to grab it he opened it to the first page and smiled. It had a hand drawn picture of all his friends, he then flicked the page and saw 2 more drawings, the first one of Malik sticking up his finger and the second one of Marik and Malik hugging. Turning the page again showed a drawing of Yugi smiling and another drawing with Yugi sitting in Yami’s lap. He glanced down at Ryou who shifted slightly in his sleep and turned the page to see a drawing spread over both pages of the park bench he was sitting at yesterday. So Ryou knew of that quiet spot, he noticed the small writing written at the bottom right hand corner. “My Safe Haven”. Turning the page a last time reviled nothing, the next few pages were blank. He thought that maybe the rest of the book was blank, then he remembered when Ryou had scribbled in the back of the book. So he turned to find the letters “Reminder”. The area underneath the word was torn and obviously used quite a lot, with each new reminder the old had been rubbed out of the paper. The current reminder is today’s. “Thursday, first day of Famine punishment, 13 days till I can savour food & drink again. Shopping this afternoon. Manipulate the store owner to let me buy alcohol or suffer… do not buy, steal or accept food/drink/anything I might need or suffer… remember to drop by doctors and pick up STI results and scar results. Attempt to steal painkillers, currently running out and will be beat if I buy any.” And underneath in a hurried scribble is “Throw up before going home, hopefully avoid another beating”. Bakura looked down at Ryou shocked, but turned the page going back up the book. The first page showed a drawing of the scar over Ryou’s heart, a caption saying “Steak Knife.” The second page showed a scar Bakura hadn’t seen, it was a drawing of Ryou’s neck and higher back, his hair pushed to the side. The words ‘Kerro’s Property, Return If lost’ carved into his skin, the caption saying “Box Cutter.” Bakura paled but turned the page again, one of the pages blank, the other baring a drawing of Ryou’s hip, with the carving ‘Whore’, the caption saying “Switch Blade.” Turning the page a last time confirmed that the rest of the book was empty but he had seen enough. He closed the book and placed it back where it was. Ryou shifted slightly and his eyes fluttered open. He looked up at Bakura with a smile.
“I fell asleep didn’t I?” He whispered worry lacing his voice.
“Yes... But don’t worry I took care of it.” Ryou tightened his grip on Bakura’s hand and yawned slightly covering his mouth with his free hand.
“Thankyou…” He whispered laying his head back down on their hands, his eyes sliding shut.
Bakura gently stroked through Ryou’s white locks smiling to himself, but the smile faded when he looked over at the book by Ryou’s side. He sat in silence thinking about what he saw and read then looked down at Ryou again. He dragged the hand that had been stroking Ryou’s hair down along his cheek towards his neck, his middle finger brushing the delicate flesh. He then lightly gathered Ryou’s hair in his hand, brushing it to the side so he had a clear view of Ryou’s neck, He felt a tear threaten to fall as he let his thumb brush over the top of Ryou’s third and what he hoped, last scar. He noticed the teacher looking at him and quickly retracted his hand from Ryou’s neck allowing his hair to once again cover the scar, marring his beautiful skin. He smiled reassuringly at the teacher and waited for the bell to go.
“Ryou?” The soft voice drifted to his ears but he ignored it. “Ryou… wake up Ryou…” that same voice called again but he didn’t want to wake up just yet.
“Wake up!” Another jolted him from his slumber as it was accompanied by a rough, yet soft hand that joined with the bare skin of his pale arm.
“Ahh, what?” He asked rubbing the slightly sore spot.
“Well that’s a way to greet your friends.” He heard Malik snort and he looked up to see Yugi and Malik huddled around his desk. They were the only ones in the room.
Ryou sighed yawning and rubbing his eyes. “Sorry…” he whispered and his friends just smiled at how cute he looked.
“It’s alright Ryou.” Yugi’s timid voice sounded and Ryou tried to smile back.
“Where’s… Where’s Bakura, Marik & Yami?” he asked noticing the 2 eldest were missing, then glancing at the empty seat beside him.
“Kura came and got us, said he had to go see the principal, but didn’t want to wake you. After Kura had walked off Marik and Yami said they had something to do and left as well.” Malik said lifting Ryou’s sleepy body from his chair and cradling him in his arms, left arm under Ryou’s legs and right arm behind his neck. Ryou curled into his friends chest lightly gripping his school shirt and yawning again. “They all said they would meet us down by the tree.”
“Oh.” Ryou whispered nuzzling into Malik and closing his eyes.
Yugi picked up Ryou’s book from the desk and traced the patterns on its cover.
“Ryou how long was the book out of your grasp?” he asked and Ryou’s eyes shot open.
“Oh crap.” He muttered looking at Yugi with worried eyes. “I’m so used to sitting by myself that I keep it by me beside the wall. I forgot to make sure that I had it was out of site, but I fell asleep… Do you think maybe Bakura read it and that’s why he’s going to the principal?”
“I don’t think he would betray your trust like that Ryou, he seems like a nice person.” Yugi said looking at the book a last time before slipping it in his bag.
“Come on we will head out to the tree now and wait for Kura, Marik & Yami to come back. Then we can find out how much Kura knows.” Malik suggested and the others nodded in agreement. They then headed out to the tree, Ryou still resting in Malik’s arms.
Chapter 6
Bakura lightly pushed the door open and slid in, sitting down before the principal’s desk. His pursuers lining up against the office to listen into the convocation that was bound to pass between the occupants of the room beyond the wall. Bakura watched as the principal finished typing what he had been and then looked at Bakura with a stern gaze.
“Why have you called me back here already? It hasn’t even been a full day.”
“You’ve seen the contents of the book haven’t you?” the man asked his stern gaze turning soft and worried.
“If I have or haven’t, it doesn’t matter. You know I won’t say anything till Ryou allows me too. That was the condition in which I did this.”
“Bakura!” The man scolded. “You need to tell me what you know, Ryou could be in serious danger but we don’t know anything because he and his friends refuse to say anything, and we can’t assume stuff without evidence. How can we help him if we don’t know what’s wrong.”
“Look… Dad… I can’t tell you because I really don’t know anything myself, all I can say is believe the students in his class about the scars, they are all real. I have seen two of them and felt the third. I don’t know who did them, but I’m making steady progress, Ryou is extremely trusting and I’m not going to ruin what I’ve done so far, even if it could help. Give me more time with the boy. I can do this but you just have to be patient. I won’t betray what trust he has given me.” Bakura explained and the man seemed to accept the information, releasing a slight nod.
“You’ve had no troubles betraying trust before, what’s different now?” Bakura stiffened at the question and glared at the wall.
“Look I’m… just drop it and let me do my job ok.” He whispered and the principal nodded.
“Ok Bakura… I trust you.” He said watching as Bakura stood from his chair and walked towards the door before he realised something he didn’t know that Bakura had mentioned.
“He has three scars?” He suddenly called pulling Bakura to a halt.
“Yes… aside from the stab wound over his heart and the carving of ‘Whore’ on his back right hip, he has a second carving across his neck and upper back, hidden by his hair.” He explained then walked out leaving the man with a shocked expression on his face.
He lightly shut the door behind him with a slight click and left the front office, starting towards the trees where he knew Ryou and the others were waiting, again unaware of the two figures watching him leave.
“Well that answers my suspicions.” Marik grunted and Yami looked at his friend with a frown. “I thought it was strange how Bakura was mainly observing Ryou over break with us rather than interacting like Ryou and my Hikari were trying to get him to.” Marik explained his thoughts and nodded.
“Even though he said that he wouldn’t betray Ryou, we need to keep a close watch on him, I believe his voice was genuine and truthful during his admission but I still think you should set him straight just in case. With the added bonus that Bakura is the principals son… We can’t trust him just yet, Ryou craves attention and Bakura is full heartedly giving him that which has clouded Ryou’s judgement on him and his intentions. We need to watch his movement and make sure that Ryou is kept safe, at least until we know we can fully trust Bakura with him and his secrets.”
“Agreed, Ryou’s safety is our top priority. I’ll make sure Bakura knows what’s what.”
With that settled they started towards the oval where their mates, their friend & his companion were located.
“Kura!” Malik yelled when he saw Bakura come into view.
Ryou sat up from his resting place in Malik’s lap jolting Yugi, who was resting against him. Bakura smiled at them as he walked over and sat down. Ryou crawled over to him and dropped onto his back, resting his head against Bakura’s left thigh smiling up at him. Bakura gently ran his hand through Ryou’s hair enjoying the feeling of his fingers gliding through the strands. Yugi adjusted himself so he was resting in Malik’s lap, the same way Ryou was against Bakura. Bakura heard the three others sigh and sighed himself, it was then that he noticed the two eldest weren’t there.
“Where are the others?” he asked eyes trained on his hand, as it continued to pass through the soft white silk known as Ryou’s hair.
Malik’s head dropped to the side facing Bakura, his eyes glistening as the sun blew over his face.
“They left just after you took off.” Yugi explained and Bakura frowned.
"Speaking of which..." Malik started his eyes trained on Bakura's expression for more of an answer then he would verbalize, he lightly noted that Bakura had stopped dragging his fingers through Ryou's hair and he tensed slightly. "What happened?"
Bakura’s frown dropped further when he heard Marik call out from somewhere behind him.
"Yeah, what happened?" Yugi shuffled off of Malik as Yami sat down and made himself comfortable In his lovers lap.
Malik and Marik resuming a similar position.
"If you really must know what it was the principal wanted with me I'll tell you. I not only need but would like to obtain your trust and as odd as it may seem." Bakura started his eyes leaving the four sets watching him to glance down at Ryou's sleeping form, resuming the movement of his fingers through Ryou's white locks so much like his own but more tame. "I would like to be more than just friends with Ryou." He looked up at the shocked faces of Malik and Yugi and the not so shocked faces of Yami and Marik. Bakura noted their neutral expressions and figured only one way the news couldn't have shocked them. "Forgive me if I'm wrong but due to your lack of surprise I'm assuming that you know of my convocation with the principal?" he asked and the elder two nodded. "Well then you must know of my reason for coming to this school, as a favour to my father... I've always been good with extracting information from others and had no problem passing info to him, with permission or not..." low growls resounded from Malik and Marik at the statement but Bakura didn't even seem to hear them. "Never once had I honoured the respect of a project... I thought I would come here, get this out of the way and return home to my miserable life... Never had I expected to fall in love..." The growls immediately stopped, not only at the admission but Bakura has tears streaming down his cheeks. "All my life all I've wanted was to find that someone special, but it has always avoided me like the plague." Bakura looked up as if just remembering his audience, his eyes sparkled with slight hope. "Do you think... Ryou might..." He shook his head breaking off his question and sighed squeezing his eyes shut tight. "Forget it."
The others kept silent, not sure what to say or do. Another tear rolled down Bakura's cheek and landed on Ryou's own rousing the small boy from his slumber. Ryou’s eyes fluttered open worry instantly marring his features when another droplet of water fell upon his cheek. He raised a hand and brushed away the next tear.
"Kura..." He whispered. “What's wrong?" At hearing the concerned voice Bakura opened his eyes and laid his hand over Ryou's leaning slightly into the caress.
He smiled lightly and wiped his eyes with his free hand. "Nothing little one, I'm fine. Just go back to sleep." He wove his fingers with Ryou's lowering both hands from his cheek and rested them across Ryou's chest, he then resumed brushing his fingers through Ryou's hair.
"Alright." Ryou smiled softly and snuggled closer to Bakura hugging their hands as he fell back into slumber.
"Do you mean that?" Malik asked and Bakura looked at him confused. "That love him, did you mean it?"
"As odd as it sounds, I do love him..." Bakura whispered lightly kissing Ryou's forehead.
A silence took over the group as the spoken words sunk in.
"You… You really mean it?" Malik asked again and Bakura just nodded his head, the action bringing a sigh from Marik and Yami.
"Then... That is acceptable." Yami whispered and Marik growled.
"For now." Bakura looked up at Marik worried and was relieved when his attention was pulled to the bundle in his lap. Yami was also paying unnecessary attention to the junior in own his lap. Bakura then glanced down at Ryou, his hand disappearing into the snowy white hair splayed over his thigh, his fingers tracing over the top of the newfound scar across Ryou's back, a frown crossing his face. Yugi noticed Bakura's strange action and smiled meekly when their eyes met.
"He will explain when he is ready."
Bakura nodded accepting the explanation the youngest gave him and his eyes returned to the peacefully sleeping Ryou. He noticed the earlier stashed paper hanging out of his companions pocket and tugged it the last few inches out. Marik noticed his action but chose to ignore it, he looked over at Yami who was about to say something but Marik stopped him with a hand gesture mouthing ‘let him read it.’ Yami nodded and watched as Bakura unfolded the paper. Bakura read the letter his eyes darkening with anger then softening with sadness and pity. He looked up at the four surrounding him and sighed before whispered the question that had been nagging at him since he first discovered the scar over Ryou’s heart.
"Is this real?"
Both Malik and Yugi looked away at the question, while Yami and Marik just nodded their heads sadly. Bakura slowly folded the note back up and slipped it back into Ryou’s pocket. The action stirring said teen slightly, he turned over in Bakura’s lap nuzzling his nose into Bakura’s right thigh, he then released a small gust of breath that made Bakura shutter, before his breathing evened out again. He noticed both Yugi and Malik smile at his reaction and looked away from them pink dusting his cheeks.
A silence spread throughout the small group and lasted the rest of the lunch period till it was broken by 5 of the 6 teens present. They all groaned when they heard the bell signalling class time go. Bakura lightly shook Ryou from his sleep and said teen just buried his face further into the material of Bakura’s pants. Bakura’s face went bright red as he felt Ryou’s nose brush his awakening arousal.
“Here…” Malik said as he picked Ryou up bridal style, Ryou’s arms rested lightly against his stomach, his face buried into his friend’s shirt.
“Thank you.” Bakura whispered taking a minute to get his breathing and his need under control. Yugi giggled at him but other than that the only response was a nod from Malik, Marik held out a hand for Bakura to take and helped the teen to his feet. Malik then handed Ryou back to Bakura, who gladly took the small teen into his arms. Ryou adjusted himself in his sleep, he wrapped his arms around Bakura’s neck clutching at the material of his back and nuzzled into Bakura’s chest. They all then started towards the school building, all going to their own separate classes.
Chapter 7
Bakura noticed the students still lined up outside of their classroom and ignored the odd stares they gave him. Of cause if confused them that he was holding Ryou, said teen had been pushing everyone away for the past who knows how long. He sighed. He was really worried about Ryou, he adjusted the teen in his arms slightly and looked around for the teacher. ‘Where is she?’ He thought to himself, he then sighed and looked at his classmates.
“Oi!” He called and when a couple of them looked over at him he spoke gesturing to Ryou in his arms. “Tell Ms. that I’m taking the rest of the day off and I’m taking Ryou with me, just slip what every work and home work we both have into my locker.” He noticed a couple of them nod before a blond stepped out of the group and took a few steps towards them, Ryou shifted uncomfortably as if sensing someone’s approach and that made the blond stop.
“Bakura, is it?”He asked and Bakura nodded, he recognized this blond as the same one who apologised to Ryou in the locker room 2nd period.
“Joey.” Bakura greeted and the blond looked shocked that he knew his name.
Bakura wavered his head before strolling off, the blond following him.
“What is it you wish to talk about?” Bakura asked him and the blond shifted his worried eyes from Ryou to Bakura.
“Ry… Is he doing ok, we are all really worried about him and well… I know what you were sent to the school to do… Have you found out anything?”
Bakura cleared his throat. “He’s severely underweight, under slept, he has attachment issues, that’s really all I can say at this point.” Bakura explained and then glanced at Joey. “You a friend of his, in the locker room you were the only one to actually approach him with concern.”
Joey nodded. “Well not exactly friends but Yugi is one of my best friends, that’s how I met Ryou, he’s glued to those 4.”Joey explained and Bakura nodded.
“They are all he has…” He whispered before looking to the front doors that they now stood in front of him. “I’m taking Ryou to my apartment so he can get in some proper sleep before he is forced to return home, can you let his friends know that he’s with me please.” With that said and a nod from Joey, Bakura left the school carrying Ryou with him.
The walk to his apartment was short, 5 minutes at most, When he got there he knocked the door frame with his knee, at the height with the parallel window seal and a click sounded from the door. He used his foot to nudge the door open and entered kicking it shut behind him.
“Glad I had that installed.” He spoke out loud as he approached the staircase.
“Come on Hikari, let’s get you to bed.” he whispered as he climbed the stairs and crossed the hallway to his bedroom door.
The hallway had three rooms, a spare on the right, his in the middle and another spare on the left. He entered his room through the already open door and lay Ryou onto his black silk sheets. He brushed some hair from the teens face and lightly kissed him on the forehead, before stripping the teen down to his boxers, he lightly ran his fingers over the large bruise formed over his ribcage before pulling the blanket over him.
“sleep well…” he whispered then left the room, he walked down stairs, put Ryou’s clothes, which smelled suspiciously of blood into the washer and then went and sat down in the lounge room to watch the TV that had been on since he woke up early that morning. He glanced at the clock to see that it was 1pm. ‘That means Ryou should get at least 2 hours sleep.’ he mused his thoughts on his smaller companion sleeping upstairs in his bed. HE thought about how today had gone and how close he already felt to the boy, he had never felt this way about anyone before and he was sure that it was love. 'It has to be…’He mused for about 10 more minutes in his mind completely tuning out the sound coming from the TV and listening for any sighs of Ryou waking. He got board after a while and his thoughts drifted to Ryou’s book, Ryou had written that he had to go grocery shopping this afternoon which means that his parents aren’t expecting him home for a while, at least a good hour after school, which means Ryou can get more sleep. This thoughts drifted once again to the threat he had read about Ryou buying himself any food and he smiled. ‘I’ll make him something to eat for when he wakes up.’ he thought to himself as he got up and headed for the kitchen.
Ryou stirred from his sleep and froze. ‘Soft…’ He purred nuzzling his nose into the silk sheets below his pale face. ‘Wait since when do I own silk?’ He lay there enjoying the feel of the material on his skin, but then he froze. ‘Shit! I’ve fallen asleep on the master’s bed!’ He jolted upright when he heard footsteps coming up the stairs and he yelped. He leapt to the floor ignoring the pain throughout his body. The door opened and he paced his forehead on the floor.
“Master! I am so sorry! I can’t remember what happened or how I got in here but I promise I will wash your sheets immediately, someone such as me does not deserve a bed, I have defiled your sleeping quarters with my presence. Please forgive me!” Tears started rolling down his face as he waited for the blow he knew was coming.
“Ryou?” The shocked voice startled Ryou and his head snapped up, Bakura was staring at him wide eyed.
“Ba… Bakura?” Ryou asked shakily. ‘Oh no! If the master sees Bakura I’m in even more trouble then I already am for sleeping in his bed. Bakura must have brought me home… I have to make sure he can get out safely.’ Ryou jumped to his feet and ran past him and out into the hallway, his body froze as he looked around. ‘Where are we, this isn’t the masters home?’ Ryou turned to look at Bakura confused, he had placed something on the bedside table and was now looking Ryou in the eye.
“We are in my apartment.” He said before tilting his head at Ryou. “What was that all about?” It was then Ryou realised what he had done.
‘Oh crap! He saw that whole thing… What do I do?’He looked down at the floor away from Bakura’s eyes and sighed. “It’s nothing…” He knew that Bakura would want answers now but he didn’t know what Bakura would do with the knowledge.
“Did… Did you think I was… Kerro?” Bakura’s voice broke with the last word as though someone had just ripped his heart out. Ryou glanced at him before he ran to the nearest corner in the room and curled up into a ball whimpering. “Yes…” The reply was so soft Bakura almost missed it but he already knew the answer before he asked. Bakura slowly approached the frightened teen whose whole body was shaking with the force of his sobs. ‘He’s nothing like the teen I met at recess just hours ago…’ Bakura thought sadly.
Ryou noticed him staring and shook harder.
“What are you going to do with me?” Ryou whimpered out, it was then that he noticed his state of undress. ‘Oh god! What if he is just like the master… What if he just wants to use me and throw me away?’
Bakura sighed and walked back over to the bed. “Come sit on the bed?” Bakura asked, he didn’t know what to do to help but he figured a soft place to sit was a start.
“No!” Ryou yelled our moving to another corner further away from Bakura. ‘I knew it, he just wants to have his way with me then toss me aside like the trash I am!’ More tears streamed down his face and he curled even further in on himself. He noticed Bakura’s hands fly up in surrender and the confused look on his face. Bakura was really worried. ‘What’s gotten into him?’
“Ryou it’s me… Bakura, I won’t hurt you… Please…” he tried in a gentle voice, he noticed Ryou twitch slightly and look up at him.
“You’re… You’re not going to hurt me?” he asked and Bakura felt a tug at his heart at the look in his companion’s eyes.
He couldn’t help it, he ran over to Ryou and picked him up till his feet were the only thing left on the ground, he then wrapped his arms around the teen hugging him tightly, he ignored Ryou’s flinch and attempt to get away.
Ryou didn’t know what to do he had never been embraced like this by anyone other than Marik, Malik, Yugi, Yami and his dead family. It felt odd after being abused daily for so long, he froze in his spot and just listened to Bakura’s voice.
“I could never hurt you Hikari, please don’t say such things about me... I love you too much to see you in pain.” He whispered burying his face into the smaller boy’s neck. Ryou felt a spark run through his body at the older boy’s words.
“What?” The ragged whisper fell before he could even stop it. ‘Did I hear him right? No one loves me, well except for the guys…’
“I love you.” Bakura repeated louder and lightly kissed Ryou on the forehead.
The words and action calmed Ryou don’t significantly and his hands clutched into Bakura’s shirt, his head resting against Bakura’s chest as the elder held him. Bakura picked Ryou up and took him over to the bed, when he laid Ryou down the boy immediately started shivering.
“It’s ok…” Bakura whispered as he pulled his sheets over Ryou’s exposed body. He brushed a lock of hair out of Ryou’s eyes and sighed. “Please… The weekend is too long to wait…”He spoke in a concerned tone. “What happened just now?’ Ryou had stopped shaking and was now watching Bakura with scared, wide eyes.
“I…”
“Please Ryou, you can trust me… I love you and just want to help…” He held out his hand brushing Ryou’s cheek with his thumb. “Unlike those dip-shits at school you know I can do something…” he added in to lighten the mood and he smiled when he heard Ryou’s small giggle, he dropped his hand to Ryou’s chest and just rested it on the sheets.
“They’re not that bad.” Ryou commented a small smile on his face at the change of topic, Ryou shifted his hand to Bakura’s and squeezed the older male’s fingers. His smile fell when he thought about the real topic at hand, then he sighed and nodded to Bakura. “Ask Away.”
Chapter 8
Bakura made himself comfortable on the edge of the bed, brushing Ryou’s leg in the process. “Well first off I brought you something so sit up.” Ryou nodded and pulled himself upright watching Bakura with curiosity.
“Now I’m no chef so my specialty ranges from toast to soup, so I made you both.” He said lightly and when Ryou went to protest he wagged his finger at the boy. “No complaints, you’re to eat it all.”
Ryou sighed in defeat and nodded his head, he then picked up the spoon and took a small mouthful of the soup before him. He sighed as the creamy substance trailed down his parched throat and into his empty stomach. Silence then fell over the room as Ryou continued to eat, Bakura watching his every move. "So..." He whispered
"Where would you like me to start?" Ryou asked, his hand shaking slightly as he lifted his next mouthful to his lips.
“Well how about you start from the beginning?” Bakura suggested softly.
“Alright...” Ryou sighed out, he got in another mouthful before he started talking. “It all started when I was 6, my parents, my sister and I were heading back from the shops when a drunk driver ran a red light and sideswiped our car, my sister died instantly, my parents, that same day in hospital and I escaped with, some broken bones and a few bruises. The second day I was in hospital my nurse had her son with her, that’s when I met Yugi. It was about 4pm when she came to my room to check on me and he just started talking to me, we got along instantly and when his mother continued on her rounds he stayed with me and kept me company till he had to go home, every chance he go after that he would come in with his mum and spend the day with me. I was in hospital for 3 weeks as I had no one to look after me in my vulnerable, incapable state at home. I would have been kept in there longer but that was when Master stepped up.” Ryou released light shutter but continued. “I said my goodbyes to my new friend and we promised to meet up on the outside, then I went to my new home. Master was caring and loving and treated me as if I was his son. The funeral was held the week I got out of hospital and life continued on. I met up with Yugi the following weekend and he introduced me to Yami, Malik and Marik. When I was enrolled into my new school, the three of them were in my class and everything went fine. With their love and support I was over my family's passing and had a new family.” A light smile graced Ryou’s lips at the thought of his friends, but then he frowned as he knew what was coming next. “On the 2nd anniversary of my parent’s death my friends and I went to their grave site, it was the first time I had been there since the funeral and I cried he whole time. When we went our separate ways I went straight home hoping for some comfort from Master. He didn't know I had entered and I heard him on the phone, he was bad mouthing my father and called me a good-for-nothing brat. I ran to the shelter of my room and curled up on my bed. I think he heard my door close because he came into my room after his phone call and for the first time since I came to live with him, he hit me. It wasn't that hard and would not bruise but it was harder than a scolding smack. He yelled at me about ease-dropping then left, that was it. The next 2 years passed normally till my 10th birthday. It was about 6pm and I had yet to be given a present or to be wished a happy birthday. He came into my room and talked like nothing was wrong, but he air about him seemed… Off..." Ryou stopped and took in a deep breath, Bakura grabbed his hand and held it in his own as a show of comfort which Ryou greatly appreciated. With a nod from Bakura he continued. "He sat next to me on the bed and talked to me like he had done do many times before. I thought he was going to leave when he stood up, but he didn't, he moved closer to me and placed his hand beneath my chin to get me to look him in the eyes. Then he... He kissed me. I didn't know what to do so I just sat there and let him. When he tried to slip his tongue between my lips I pulled away and shook my head to say I didn’t want to but he just hit me the tried again. I didn't want to get hurt again so I let him. It was the second worst feeling in my life... The first is what happened next.” Ryou stopped talking there. He had finished the soup Bakura had made for him and was nibbling on the first slice of toast.
"Do you want to stop now and finish it later?" Bakura asked, he could see he tears gathering in the corners of the youngers eyes and was worried, but Ryou just shook his head.
"It's best if I finish while I still can." He whispered before wiping at his eyes and taking a small bite of his toast. "I may have been young, but what kid hasn't learnt things they’re not supposed to know at their age, I knew the kiss was a thing shared between two people who care about each other, in both cases of romance or not, but when he laid me down and straddled my waist, I knew it wasn't right. It was passed family and gone onto something shared between ‘Non-Relative Lovers,’ as Yami had put it. He was gentle about it at first, as he kissed and licked at my neck, but when he started unbuttoning my shirt and I tried to push him away he hit me again before tearing my clothes from me... Then he... R-raped m-me..." The tears that had been held back throughout his words were left to fall from his eyes. “It was the worst thing I have ever felt in my whole life, and what made it worse was when he… Finished… With me he called out my m-mothers name.” Ryou sobbed the last part and Bakura pulled him into a tight hug. “Since that day, Master has treated me like the dirt he walks on… Everyday he rapes and abuses me, sometimes several times a day. I’m basically his slave, I do the shopping, I do the cleaning, I do the cooking and all he does is treat me like his bitch.” Ryou’s voice turned from sad to angry, the tears stopped falling and he was almost growling. “He stopped calling out my mother’s name about 2 years ago, now he just degrades me verbally and marks my body.” Ryou’s hand unconsciously went to the back of his neck where he was branded. “He’s a sick, twisted fuck and I can’t wait for my 18th birthday.”
A silence took over them before Bakura pulled Ryou into his arms.
"Ry... I... Thank you for telling me..."Bakura whispered hugging Ryou tight to his chest. The younger was silent, he was breathing deeply tying to get himself under control. Bakura noticed the note on the bedside table and leaned over to pick it up. Ryou sat up at Bakura's movement and noticed the letter he was reaching to pick up.
"Yo... You've read it havnt you. " he whispered retrieving the letter from Bakura and unfolding it, the 50$ note fell into his lap as his eyes scanned over the writing. Bakura held him, reading over his shoulder, he felt a familiar spark of anger .
"I don't want you going back there." He whispered out in concern for his light and he frowned at the look that crossed Ryou's face.
"Your concern is sweet, but I have to."
"No you don't. I can look after you, please." his voice was painfilled as he burrows his face into Ryou's snow white hair.
"come on, I have to get Masters shopping done and head back before he suspects I've been anywhere but school." Ryou said as he pocketed the note and money. He go up and leafy the room, Bakura watched him leave with a sad expression before standing himself. He followed the younger down the stairs and out the front door.
Chapter 9
Bakura stopped and glanced back at Ryou who had stopped his eyes trained off to the left. Bakura followed his attention and noticed the man behind the counter at the liquor store looking at them. He heard Ryou release a light growl and looked back at him with worry.
"Ry." he called and said boy snapped out of his gaze, his growl ceasing immediately.
"Yes?" he asked walking over to Bakura and the two of them continued walking towards the shops.
"You know him?" Bakura's worried voice sounded and Ryou sighed.
"We have to go see him after shopping, it appears he already knows about my shop today. That bastard must have called him..." Ryou responded whispering the last part, walking slightly ahead of Bakura.
Bakura looked at him weirdly but followed him into the shop. They walked around in silence, Ryou grabbing everything he would need to cook. Bakura followed Ryou quiet unnerved by the silence. He didn't know what to do or say, he was brought out of his thoughts when he heard a whimper come from Ryou. He glanced over at him but he just had his eyes shut.
"Is everything alright?" The shop clerk asked as she finished scanning the items, the total price coming to $33.
"No." Ryou shuttered in response as he handed the women his only $50 note.
She took the money and gave Ryou his change and receipt. Bakura continued to look at Ryou worriedly as they both picked up the shopping and left in the direction of the liquor store. He noticed Ryou's eyes filled with an unknown emotion as they got closer. Once out the front Ryou stopped and turned to Bakura shuttering at the look he knew the man was giving him.
"Stay here." His voice was strained but his tone was absolute.
Bakura shook his head. "I'm coming with." He said lightly going to walk inside but was stopped by Ryou's arm. "Why can't I go in with you?"
Ryou looked away, his expression almost ashamed. "You wouldn't understand..." He whispered as he turned to walk through the doors. He glanced at the clerk who was leering at him and sighed. "Please just stay out here."
"I'm coming and that's final." Bakura's firm statement made Ryou flinch. He glared up at his companion and then sighed looking away.
"Then don't interfere." With that said Ryou entered the store with Bakura close behind.
They both approached the counter and Ryou smiled nervously.
"Tyson..." He greeted releasing a nervous chuckle.
Bakura gave Ryou a worried glance, 'What’s gotten into him?'
"Ryou..." The clerk returned his voice dripping with venom as he spoke, he then glanced at Bakura. "Kero, said you would be coming alone..." he whispered glancing at Bakura with a glare. "Who is this!" the man’s voice rose in anger as he hissed the statement.
Ryou visibly flinched taking a step back from the counter, Bakura moved to step in front of Ryou but was held back by a week, feeble grip on his shirt. He glanced down at the pale hand and sighed, stepping back. Another nearby customer scowled at the clerk before walking out whispering something about disrespect. Said clerk watched he lady leave tisking.
"What did Kero tell you about not causing a scene?" he asked, voice smug.
"But..." before he could say anything else he was cut off again.
"I thought you would have learnt by now!" the clerk snarled and Ryou flinched again. "Recite it." Ryou looked away from the angry man and Bakura's confused gaze. "Now!" the hiss was enough to make Bakura shiver Ryou noticed, he sighed, he really didn't want Bakura to see this but he didn't have a choice. He got down on his knees, forehead touching he floor and whispered something silent.
"and speak up." the man growled kicking Ryou in the side, Ryou yelped a tear escaping his closed eyes as he spoke louder.
"I am dirt, I am nothing but Masters slave, I live only to serve, please, pleasure and entertain master." Ryou's cheeks were now covered in tears as he continued speaking, Bakura didn't know what to do. "I will not disobey master and he is my all, whatever master wishes I shall grant, until the day he sees fit to remove me from his presence forever." Ryou shifted till he was on his knees head still facing the floor. "Master said never to disrupt your workplace with my filthy presence. That I am only to come in, pay you, get his request and leave. I have disrupted your shop by making you angry, I apologize and accept my punishment, whatever you see fit." he then bowled again till his forehead touched the floor and waited for the clerk to move. He heard Bakura growl when Tyson moved and the vicious snarl when he felt a tight grip wrap around his upper arm.
"You better tell your..." he saw Tyson give Bakura the once over before growling himself. "Guard dog, to stay out of our business. As I recall you’re not supposed to have friends. Kero will find this very interesting." he let lose a cold chuckle as he yanked Ryou towards the back room.
Ryou glance back at Bakura who was about to follow them and mouthed 'Please.' Bakura looked really worried and uncertain but stayed by the counter anyway. Ryou and Tyson were gone for over an hour. Bakura paced by the counter hoping everything was alright. He wanted to see if Ryou was ok, but he had promised the other he would not interfere. He was about to break his promise when the door to the back room opened. Tyson stepped out of the room with Ryou trailing behind him, from what Bakura could see the teen was unharmed. Tyson stopped in clear view of Bakura and smirked at him before turning back to Ryou and forcing him into a kiss. Ryou’s body went limp as he allowed the clerk to do as he pleased, Bakura growled low but didn’t move. When the clerk pulled away he tossed Ryou in Bakura’s direction before heading behind the counter. Ryou stumbled but before he hit the floor Bakura had caught him. He helped the teen to his feet before glaring at the clerk who now had his hand over a case of beer.
“$20.” Was all he said, and Ryou whimpered again, leaning slightly into Bakura for security.
He took out the $17 change he had from food shopping and placed it on the counter.
“That’s all I have.” Ryou whispered and Tyson counted the money before smirking.
“Now Ryou, you’re a little short.” He said with a sadistic smile on his face, Bakura didn’t like the look at all and wrapped his arm around Ryou’s waist in an attempt to comfort him. The action didn’t go unmissed by the clerk who smirked at him. “You have two choices. I’ll give you 5 of the 6 cans, due to you being short in money and you can be punished by Kero, or you can give me what I want and I’ll ignore the missing money.” He purred and Ryou shuttered.
The teen sighed before stepping out of Bakura’s grip, he parted his hair before finding a thick hidden strand resting against his neck. He lifted it up, holding it out with his eyes closed.
Bakura was confused till he saw the scissors Tyson was going to use to cut Ryou’s hair. He knew he shouldn’t intervene, Ryou would get mad at him, but if Ryou prided his hair half as much as Bakura did himself, he wouldn’t let the younger sacrifice it.
“Wait…” He spoke, his hand shot out to grab at the clerks, stopping his actions towards Ryou’s hair, said teen looked up at Bakura confused. “Here’s an extra $20. Covers the missing money and then some.”
Ryou was shocked, but happy at the same time. He lowered the strand back against his neck and shook his hair to hide it. The clerk growled at the older teen before snatching his hand away, taking the money with him. He then pushed the case towards the two and snarled.
“Kero will hear about this.” He snapped before disappearing into the back room.
Ryou sighed before gathering the shopping in his hands, he then started to limp out of the shop. Bakura was worried about him but wanted to be at a safe distance before he asked about it, he grabbed the case before picking up the remaining shopping. Both teens left the shops and stopped to load said shopping into Bakura’s boot, they then both climbed into the car, Bakura driving and Ryou, passenger.
“Are you alright?” Bakura asked as he started the engine and drove out of the car park. “What happened in the store room, your limping and…”
“Please just don’t. Take me home…” He whispered, facing away from Bakura as he let silent tears fall.
Bakura saw the glistening salt water out of the corner of his eye and sighed,
“Alright, if that’s what you wish.” He whispered before focusing on the road and their destination. “I will take you home.”
Chapter 10
'Where am I, last thing I remember is leaving the liquor store and telling Bakura to take me home. So that means I’m back at master’s place.' he thought to himself as he watched the back of his eyelids. 'It’s quiet so perhaps master isn't home yet. That means I’m safe for alittle bit. I should probably head for my room so I'm not on masters couch when he gets home.' Ryou's eyes fluttered open and he was met with the illuminating light of the TV in a dark room. 'Odd. Did Bakura turn all the lights off before he left?' Ryou sat up and looked around. The loungeroom was set out differently, and he looked to the shut blinds with a confused expression. 'The loungeroom at home doesn't have blinds.' he limped over to the blinds and looked through them, his eyes were met with the night sky and the occasional streetlight.
"Ohh Ryou, you finally woke up." he whirled around to see Bakura standing in the doorway into the kitchen where there was a light on. 'How had I missed that?'
"Ba... Bakura, I thought I told you to take me home, Masters going to be very mad at me." he whispered out before he limped back over to the couch and sat down.
"I did, your home now. I've decided I'm not letting you go back there." Bakura's words were strong and determined and Ryou didn't know what to say.
"Bakura it’s only 2 more days till I can get out of there." he whispered glancing to the clock. It was 1am in the morning. "Less than 48 hours till I can legally leave. I don't want to involve you, you'll get hurt, that's why I haven’t let the others help either. Please Bakura I don't want you involved. Just wait for me, I’m strong enough to finish this to the end." he whimpered out hoping Bakura would listen to him.
Bakura approached him and knelt down before him. "You’re not going back, I refuse to let him hurt you again, even if it means getting hurt myself." Bakura responded stubbornly.
Ryou nodded then kissed him lightly on the lips.
"If you get hurt interfering I will never forgive you." he growled out and Bakura could tell he was being serious. “Bakura, could I please use your bathroom?” Ryou asked and Bakura nodded immediately.
“Of cause.” Ryou shyly kissed him on the lips once more before standing up and stumbling slightly. Bakura caught him before he fell and he received a grateful look from the younger.
"Thankyou." Ryou whispered before limping out of the room, Bakura trailing behind him.
"Why are you limping?" Bakura asked worried about him and Ryou's answer was the bathroom door closing in his face. Bakura was about to ask him again when he heard the spray of the shower come on. Bakura went to his bedroom to get Ryou something to wear before he went back out and began pacing the hallway, thinking about everything that had happened. When he heard the water stop he walked up to the door and leaned his forehead against it. He could hear shuffling on the other side of the door. “Ryou… I’ve brought you some fresh clothes.” Bakura whispered and the door peeked open and Ryou looked through, he nodded slightly in thanks, before taking the offered clothes and shutting the door, the shuffling could again be heard. “Ryou… Why were you limping?” Bakura asked again and the movement on the other side of the door stopped followed by a sigh.
“I think you know.” Ryou’s soft voice responded and Bakura looked down at his hands, tears gathering in his eyes. "Why didn't you let me help you, I could have stopped him from... from..."
"You couldn't have stopped him and I would have gotten hurt worse if you tried. He is gentler then Master, but if you had interfered he would have been worse." Ryou whispered from the other side of the door. A silence that passed between them, both thinking about the situation before Ryou broke it by opening the door. He flung himself into Bakura's arms and they embraced as Ryou let his tears fall. "Alright, I'll stay… with you. I'll stay here if you promise not to leave me." He whispered and Bakura smiled softly, he picked Ryou up and walked towards his bedroom, he lay Ryou down and pulled the blanket over him before climbing in himself. Bakura wrapped his arms around Ryou's small body and pulled the boy so he was resting against his chest.
"I won't leave you, I promise." He spoke before kissing Ryou on the forehead.
“Thankyou.” The younger whispered in a sleepy voice. "I love you."
Bakura smiled at the words before nuzzling into Ryou’s hair. “I love you too.” His whisper didn't reach the youngers ears as the sound of soft breathing entered the room. Bakura looked at the sleeping face fondly before entering blissful sleep after his younger companion.
The sun rose through the curtains as Ryou sat up and yawned. He looked down and frowned at the white haired male who he was leaning against.
“Bakura?” He whispered nudging the teen.
Bakura groaned, wrapping his arm from Ryou and pulling the stunned teen to the bed, cuddling against him, Ryou nervously glanced at the closed eyes before burring his hand into Bakura’s white hair and dragging his fingers through the silky locks.
“Bakura, we’ve got to get up.” Ryou said and Bakura purred as he nuzzled into Ryou’s neck, the younger freezing at the unfamiliar contact.
“I would rather stay in bed with you.” Bakura almost whined, licking lightly at Ryou’s soft skin. The younger shivered at the pleasurable feeling and wiggled out of Bakura’s grasp before sitting up.
“The sun is rising and we need to get ready for school.” He said again and Bakura growled lightly at the loss of contact and the youngers words but sat up shielding his eyes from the sun.
“Fine.” He grumbled, annoyed at having to get up.
“Not a morning person huh?” Ryou asked and gave light, nervous laugh at the elders glare.
Bakura got up and moved across the room with a stretch before going to leave. Ryou stayed put looking down at his lap. ‘I’ve made him angry.’ He sighed and was startled at the elder’s voice.
“Are you coming?” Bakura asked looking back at Ryou waiting for the younger to follow.
Ryou looked back at him confused and Bakura just shook his head with a smile before walking back over to him and pulling him to his feet. “Come on, we have to go for a shower before leaving.” The older said winking and Ryou blushed brightly, before following from the room compliantly. He followed Bakura down the hallway and into the bathroom, jumping slightly when the elder shut the door behind them. Bakura reached into the shower and turned the taps, starting the flow of water, not bothering to adjust it. He then started to strip out of his night clothes. Ryou looked down at his own nervously. Just before Bakura went to take off his boxers he noticed the younger wasn’t moving.
“Is something wrong Ryou?” Bakura asked lightly caressing his right cheek as he looked into the youngers emerald eyes.
“No, I’ve just… Never washed with anyone other than Master before…” He whispered looking down at his hands again with sad eyes.
“I only suggested we shower together to save time but if you are uncomfortable, we can shower separately.” Bakura said reassuringly “I don’t want you to be uncomfortable in my presence. It saddens me that you think I would hurt you, betray you, when all I want is your safety and happiness…” He whispered and Ryou looked up at him with uncertain eyes. Bakura smiled slightly before he started to leave the room but stopped by a hand on his wrist.
“Please, don’t leave…” The younger whispered and Bakura nodded, turning around and pulling the younger into a tight hug.
“You need to understand Kitten, I would never hurt you.” Bakura whispered and Ryou looked up startled at the nickname but nodded before laying his head on Bakura’s chest. They stood in silence for a few minutes before Bakura pulled away and looked down at him. “We best shower or the whole point of showering together will be a waste because we will not have saved any time.” Bakura winked and grinned when Ryou smiled back and nodded. The youngers reluctance was gone as he stripped out of his cloths and waited for Bakura to finish undressing. Bakura pulled down his boxers before stepping into the spray of the shower, ignoring the temperature.
“I am not sure how tempered you have the water when you shower. So you can set it.” He said lightly as he held his hand out for the younger. Ryou nervously looked over at the hand before taking it and allowing Bakura to pull him into the shower. He yelped at the coldness of the water and quickly adjusted the spray to a more comfortable temperature. Bakura noted the temperature similar to how he showered himself and smiled when Ryou picked up the washcloth and covered it in soap before he placed the soft material against Bakura’s neck and began washing him. Bakura closed his eyes in bliss as the younger cleaned him. Ryou noticed the reaction and smiled to himself, knowing it was him that was pleasing Bakura. He took in the elder’s body as he washed him, when he was finished with Bakura’s upper front and back, he dropped to his knees and bypassed the elders hips, washing his legs and feet before moving up to wash his thighs and hips, he lightly caressed the elders backside with the cloth before running the soft material against his arousal before taking hold of the semi-erect member and stroking it lightly with the cloth. Bakura jolted at the pleasurable feeling before looking down at Ryou with confusion.
“Ryou… What are you doing?” He moaned and Ryou smiled lightly before looking up at him.
“Master says that our privates need to be cleaned thoroughly every time one showers.” The younger responded before removing the cloth and wrapping his lips around the head of Bakura’s now hard member. Bakura was too stunned to act and could only moan lowly at the feel. Ryou lowered his mouth, covering Bakura to the hilt, gaging when the large appendage hit the back of his throat. Pulling back almost straight away he drew in a deep breath, frowning lightly. “Your much bigger than Master.” He whispered before trying again, this time pushing down his gag reflex which protested against his action. Bakura had frowned at the youngers words but groaned at the feeling and sunk his hands into Ryou’s hair, brushing the locks lightly.
“R-ryou, you don’t need to do that.” Bakura moaned and the younger stopped immediately, pulling back and looking up at him with sad eyes.
“You do not approve, have I done something wrong?” The younger whimpered and Bakura sighed before kneeling before the other.
“You couldn’t be more wrong Kitten.” Bakura whispered and Ryou’s eyes clouded with confusion.
“Then what is wrong?” Ryou asked and Bakura placed his hand against Ryou’s cheek lightly.
“Do you know what you were just doing?” He asked lightly and Ryou looked at him with a smile.
“I was cleaning you?” He responded, questioning his answer.
“No. What you were doing with the cloth is cleaning.” Bakura explained and Ryou looked confused before the elder continued. “When you use your mouth, it is for the purpose of pleasing the other, in an Intimate sense.” He finished and Ryou looked stunned.
“M-master said it was because you privates also have to be cleaned on the inside aswell…” Ryou stuttered and Bakura looked at him sadly.
“He lied to you, it was just another way you could bring him pleasure.” Bakura spoke softly and Ryou sobbed, sitting on the shower floor and pulling his knees to his chest.
“Kitten… We must finish showering and get ready for school.” Bakura whispered and Ryou looked up at him tears mingling with the shower water traveling down his face.
“Alright.” He allowed Bakura to pull his feet and froze when he felt the washcloth on his skin.
“Shh Kitten, I’m just going to wash you then we will get out.” Bakura responded and smiled lightly when Ryou relaxed, the body stiffened again slightly when he cleaned the others member but remained relaxed for the wash. Bakura used the time to take in the others appearance, his body was very thin and he could tell the other was building muscle, because the skin was almost hard. The bruise across his midriff was an ugly deep purple, part of which was darker than the rest, which he knew was the result of the clerk kicking him in the stomach. He searched the small frame as he washed for any other scars the younger might bare due to his ‘Master’ and he was happy to find that there were no more. When he finished cleaning he placed the cloth on the soap holder and turned off the water. He got out pulling his quiet companion with him and began to dry them both. When they were dry Bakura left the room and headed for his bedroom and began shuffling through his draws.
“I washed your clothes, but they are probably stillwet, you will have to wear something of mine today.” Bakura said looking over his shoulder at Ryou who stood in the door way just watching the other. “Just pick out anything you like.” Bakura said gesturing to the draws he was searching through. The younger nodded reluctantly before he crossed the room and opened one of the draws to Bakura’s left.
When both were dressed Bakura led the younger down the stairs and into the kitchen.
“Grab whatever you want to eat, then we will head off.” Bakura said as he crossed the room to the sink and poured himself a glass of water. Ryou watched him move before he looked down at the floor. Bakura glanced back at the other who had yet to move with confused eyes. ‘Why is he not moving to get something to eat?’ He asked himself before asking. “What’s wrong Kitten, are you not hungry.” At his words Ryou glanced at him before lowering his eyes back to the floor.
“Do you not wish to eat?” Ryou asked shyly, Bakura gave him a strange look before his eyes saddened.
“Kitten… You do not have to wait for me to do anything, or ask permission. This is your place too now.” Bakura said softly as he buried his fingers into Ryou’s hair and kissed him on the forehead. “Now grab something to eat so we can head off.” He smiled releasing the other before returning to his drink. Sighing when Ryou shyly moved around the kitchen and made himself something to eat. He then sat down at the table and slowly ate, watching Bakura out of the corner of his eye, making sure he didn’t upset the other. Bakura frowned, noticing the others actions before he sat down at the table, waiting for the other to finish in silence. The silence was broken as Ryou collected his dish and went into the kitchen, he went to wash it up but froze as a lager hand took the bowl from him and placed it in the sink.
“That can be done later, we need to get going if we are going to be on time.”
Bakura said softly and Ryou nodded, the two then left the house and started towards the school.
Chapter 11
Malik smiled brightly as he saw the pale teens approaching. He ran over and dived at Ryou, the teen barely keeping his footing as he caught the blonde in a tight embrace.
“You left… Went home early, we weren’t sure what happened to you.” The blonde sobbed into his neck and Ryou patted the others back comfortingly. Bakura watched silently before he was pulled away, but still within sight by Marik.
“What happened?” The teen growled and Bakura smiled slightly still watching the teens.
“He was still asleep by the time we got back to the classroom so I took him home.” Marik growled not liking the answer. “To my place.” Bakura added hoping to lower the others anger but that only made him angrier. “To sleep, I promise.” Bakura held up his hands and Marik seemed to accept that.
“Ryou, Yami and Yugi are already inside. Let’s go.” He called out and the younger two retreated from their embrace and followed slowly, talking softly to eachother. Marik nodded and started off, Bakura by his side. “Now talk.” Bakura sighed before explaining the events of what happened since lunch the previous day. Marik growled upset by the new information.
“Thankyou for stepping in like you did, Ryou’s hair means a great deal to him, it is the only treasure he has left to remind him of his dear mother… And Thankyou for not taking advantage of him and explaining his actions to him. We try to correct his actions as often as we can but that bastard has…” Marik sighed, stopping his sentence as he looked down at his clenched fists.
“I understand.” Bakura whispered, placing a light hand on the blonde’s shoulder in an attempt to calm him down. Marik smiled in silent thanks and Bakura nodded, dropping his arm by his side. He then looked over at the other. “Do… You think he will ever be that comfortable with me?” Bakura asked and Marik looked at him with saddened eyes.
“We have tried to desensitize him as much as we can to touch, but as his ‘friends’ we can only do so much and even then his understanding between friendship and intimacy is on a shaky line. When we first started hanging out, he used to kiss us all on the lips as a greeting. Kerro had taught him that, kissing was the proper way to say hello.” Marik growled angrily and Bakura frowned.
“That is why he is almost… Intimate in his actions towards you guys?” Bakura asked and Marik nodded.
“He was fine when Yugi first introduced us to him after his release from the hospital, but the problems started when we returned to school the year after his tenth birthday.” Marik stopped when Bakura looked at him confused.
“Returned?” Bakura asked and Marik nodded.”
“He didn’t show up to school the day after his birthday and we didn’t see him for the rest of the year, the next time we saw him was the following year, on the first day of school. When he returned, he seemed… Strange. Greeting each of us a light kiss on the lips and a tight hug, we just assumed he was excited to see us again and ignored it, but as the day went on we noticed discovered other things that were wrong with him. He always had some kind of contact with one of us, the contact occasionally being intimate. He avoided all other people but us, refusing to be left alone even if it was with another classmate. As the day ended he again kissed the four of us on the lips, as a goodbye and left. Over the next few months, he repeated the progress always greeting us with kisses and sticking within our presence, whining whenever we were separated. Other things began to change, he started referring to us in a more official manner and flinched, sometimes shielding himself if any of us got angry. After the four of us talked about it we decided to confront him about it, but he refused to say anything to us about it, and his actions only got worse, his scared reactions almost doubling and as time went by his actions towards us only became more intimate. It confused us that he only acted that way towards the four of us, and although withdrawn and sometimes angry himself, he acted normally towards everyone else. We constantly tried to get what was going on out of him but he always said nothing was wrong and that he didn’t want to talk. It wasn’t until he was 16 that we finally found out. When he got his first scar, we would not have known if I was for Yugi’s mom, she was the nurse on shift when he was brought in with the stab wound. In the safety of the hospital room we finally got him to explain what was going on. He had told us that Kerro had taught proper etiquette. He had forgotten to greet Kerro properly when he got home that after noon and the man had punished him. He believed that he deserved almost dying and that Kerro was merciful to not end his life then and there. We were all shocked as he continued to explain everything that Kerro had taught him and that he was sorry for not respecting us properly in the earlier days which we knew him. We had explained to him that everything Kerro had said was a lie and he got angry at us, forcing us to leave.” Marik whispered and Bakura looked shocked, listening sadly as Marik continued. “We returned the next day and he basically begged us for forgiveness about his actions the previous day, even going so far as to try and get on his knees but his injuries and Yami held him back. We told him that he didn’t need forgiveness, we then made him listen as we explained to him that what Kerro had said was wrong. He listened to us and when we were finished he had looked down at his hands and we fell into silence. When he finally spoke it was an apology for everything. When Yugi went to take his hand in comfort Ryou had flinched away and he was reluctant to do anything without getting confirmation from us first. He began to greet us with nothing but an emotionless hello, he avoided all contact with us and often tried to be left alone. We talked to him about it, him asking questions about the proper way to act and he eventually adopted a shaky line down the middle. We had managed to convince him, with little effort that everything that happened in his house was wrong and we tried to get him to let us tell someone, but he said ‘As long as I have you guys, I will be able to pull through this. I do not want anyone involved, just trust me that I can do this on my own.’ He had made us sware secrecy and over the past two years he had stabilized himself in our presence, as you witnessed yesterday, he does cross the line from friendship to intimacy but I believe that will be a part of who he is for the rest of his life.” Marik finished looking down at the floor as it passed under him, Bakura looked down thinking.
“Then, that is why he kissed me?” Bakura’s voice was soft and Marik looked at him with a slight smile.
“No.” Bakura jolted looking at him shocked and Marik’s smile grew. “Ryou knows the meaning of a kiss, innocent, intimate or otherwise. It was the first thing we tended to, and he hasn’t kissed us in an intimate way since. If he kissed you, he had a reason, I believe it may have been out of gratitude but I may be wrong.” Marik finished and Bakura’s face fell. They continued walking in silence before Marik looked at Bakura and nudged him, getting the elders attention, he sighed at the sad eyes before looking forward again. “I know it hurts Bakura… But I want you to keep trying.” Marik’s voice was stern and Bakura looked at him confused, the blonde smiled before explaining.
"You can give him the attention we shouldn't. The most we can do is hold him, give him comfort but you can take that to the next level, in an intimate sense. Ryou is still unused to hugs, by anyone accept us, everytime he freezes, it’s not because he hates what you’re doing. It's because he is afraid, he has known nothing but pain for the last 8 years, Kerro has never attempted to be kind or gentle and any pleasurable touches would be foreign to his body and mind. I'm not saying jump in the sack with him right now but he needs to learn that what Kerro is doing is wrong. Sure he knows it isn't right but the act itself is painful in his mind, he has never had the chance to consent to such an act so his only experiences, in what is supposed to be the most pleasurable thing a person can do, are all painful. He may already have developed a fear of it." Marik whispered before looking at Bakura with tears in his eyes. "Please, you must help him. I fear he may be damaged, beyond repair. I... I trust you and I believe you when you say you care for him. Please do what you can." He begged and Bakura nodded.
"I will do anything in my power to help, but the first line of action is to get him out of that environment. I need to ask you for something." Bakura turned stopping and looking at Marik in the eyes.
Ryou and Malik stopped looking at them confused on why they stopped in the middle of the corridor.
"Bakura?" Ryou asked looking at him.
"Sorry Kitten, you should go on ahead, I need to talk to Marik about something." Bakura explained, he moved over to Ryou and placed his hand against the youngers cheek and lightly kissed him on the lips. "I will meet you in the classroom in afew minutes." He whispered brushing Ryou's cheek again before turning back to Marik. The blonde smiled lightly at him, noticing Ryou's blush over the teens shoulder.
"Go on Hikari." Marik muttered, the smaller blonde ran over and wrapped his arms around Marik's neck, pulling the taller down into a deep kiss. When he let go Marik's head was spinning.
"I'll see you in afew minutes." Malik whispered, nipping at the elders lips before he pulled away and ran off, dragging Ryou down the hallway.
Bakura smirked at Marik who still looked dazed.
"Hikari?" He chuckled and Marik smirked back.
"Kitten?" The blonde returned with a small laugh aswell and Bakura shrugged.
"Now, I know your father is a cop." Bakura started bluntly and Marik nodded. "You, Yami and I are going to put an end to this." Bakura said and Marik looked confused.
"As soon as Ryou turns 18 he is legal, once that happens, Kerro goes free. I will not allow that, the bastard will get what’s coming to him." Bakura growled viciously and Marik looked slightly shocked. "There is no doubt in my mind that Ryou will be leaving the school with Kerro before the day is out. That bastard is his guardian after all." Bakura explained and Marik nodded.
"So what do you intend to do." Marik asked and Bakura looked down the hall.
"I... I cannot stop him from taking Ryou home with him... But with yours and Yami's help I can get the evidence I’ll need to send him to jail." Bakura said and Marik nodded.
"What do you need us to do? We will do what we can to help." Marik asked and Bakura looked back at him.
"Malik and Yugi are not to come with us." Bakura said sternly and Marik went to protest but Bakura stopped him. "We may see... Things. I'm not saying they are weak but if something is happening to Ryou, we cannot just burst into the house." Bakura explained and Marik looked horrified but nodded. "We cannot alert that bastard to our presence, we are going to need to collect a few things to make this work, and I need you to fill the others in on what’s happening. As soon as Kerro shows, I will come get you, Yugi and Malik should head to my place while we are out." Bakura said handing Marik his house keys, they then went over everything they would need before heading in their separate ways as the bell sounded.
Chapter 12
Bakura slipped into the classroom, smiling lightly when his classmates ignored him, the only one who looked at him was Ryou, and the younger was smiling brightly at his appearance. The teacher called Bakura over and he nodded to Ryou before going to the teacher’s desk.
"Yes miss." He asked in a hushed voice and the teacher looked up to him with a smile.
"I am not sure what you have done Bakura, but please continue to do so. I haven't seen young Ryou so happy since he was a child." She said and Bakura nodded.
"Of cause miss." He responded and as he walked up the classroom to Ryou he called out. "Sorry for my tardiness, it shouldn't happen again." The teacher only nodded and continued on with what she was doing at her desk. Bakura slipped behind Ryou and into his chair, smiling at the younger.
“Did you and Marik discuss whatever it was you wanted to talk about?” Ryou asked softly and Bakura nodded before looking the younger in the eyes.
“Ryou… I need to tell you something.” Bakura whispered and the teen looked at him with worry in his eyes.
“What is it, what’s wrong?” He asked with worry and Bakura smiled slightly.
“Nothing is wrong Kitten, it’s just…” He sighed before looking away from the younger.
Ryou frowned, saddened by Bakura’s actions and he reached over and took the elders hand.
“You can tell me, I promise I won’t be mad.” Ryou whispered reassuringly and Bakura looked him in the eyes before nodding and looking back down at their joined hands.
“He will take you today.” Bakura whispered and Ryou looked at him confused. “I won’t be able to stop him from taking you back today…” Bakura continued and Ryou’s confusion only deepened before he realized what Bakura was referring to and he sighed, tightening his grip on Bakura’s hand.
“I know, I knew this yesterday aswell, which is why I told you to just take me back. He won’t let me go Bakura, my only chance is to wait till the weekend.” Ryou explained and Bakura shook his head, refusing to hear the youngers words.
“Marik, Yami and I are getting you out of there tonight. We are going to make sure that that bastard goes to jail.” Bakura growled and Ryou looked at him with curious eyes.
“How?” Ryou questioned and Bakura looked at him with a sad smile.
“I talked to Marik about it already. When he comes to get you, we are all going to meet up out the front. Yugi and Malik will go back to my place and wait for us. Marik, Yami and I will follow you back to his house and we will go from there.” Bakura explained and Ryou looked away with tear-filled eyes.
“You can’t…” He whimpered and Bakura looked over at him confused, Ryou noticed before continuing. “My punishment will be sever, I… I don’t want you to witness it…” He looked at Bakura as tears started to trail down his face. Bakura sighed before pulling the younger into a tight hug.
“That is why we will not allow Malik and Yugi to accompany us. I know it will be hard but…” Bakura stopped when Ryou whined lightly.
“I don’t want you to see me like that… You won’t…” He couldn’t finish and Bakura growled lightly.
“Don’t you ever think that!” He suddenly cried out and remembered where they were, he glanced up to see the teacher and class looking over at them with worried eyes.
“Is everything alright Bakura?” The teacher asked and Bakura nodded before bowing slightly.
“We are fine, sorry for disrupting the class.”
“Alright.” The teacher responded with a confused tone before all eyes turned away. Bakura then looked back to a still whimpering Ryou who had tucked his face in his arms, he buried his hand in the youngers white hair, softly dragging his fingers through the silky locks.
“Please do not think so lowly of me.” Bakura said softly and Ryou looked up at him confused. “My feelings are not so shallow. You honestly think I will stop caring for you because of this?” Bakura asked wounded by the youngers implication.
“I’m sorry.” Ryou whispered and Bakura sighed.
“It’s ok Kitten, Just know I would never hate you. I’ve told you before, I love you and nothing will change that.” Bakura reassured enforcing his words by caressing the youngers neck over his scar.
“Alright Bakura.” Ryou whispered before resting his head on the elders shoulder, eyes closed. “What do you need me to do?”
“I know it may be hard, but we cannot alert him to our presence. You need to act as if we are not there.” Bakura cautioned and Ryou nodded before sniffling. “I will also need you to get us the… weapons he used to do these.” Bakura continued, using alittle more pressure against the youngers neck scar. “We will take care of the rest.”
“Alright Kura, I trust you.” Ryou whispered, he lay his head against their joined hands and sighed sadly.
Bakura smiled down at the younger as he felt his body relax, Ryou had fallen asleep.
He looked up to see the teacher watching him with sad eyes and Bakura nodded to show that they were alright.
The quietness of the classroom was shattered as the classroom door was wrenched open and slammed against the wall. The glass cracked slightly, but the door was mainly unharmed. Everyone’s attention shot to the man now in the doorway with confusion. The sound had jolted Ryou awake and like everyone else, his eyes shot to the man and a cold chill ran down his spine. He backed into his chair, tightening his grip on Bakura’s hand as his body started shaking.
“Master.” He whispered softly, only Bakura could hear him and he glared at the tall business man.
“Can I help you?” Came the teachers voice and the man turned his cold brown eyes to her.
“I’m here to pick up my charge.” He spoke before glaring across the classroom at Ryou, his eyes flickered to Ryou and Bakura’s conjoined hands and a cold smirk crossed his lips.
“Have you gone to the office, I cannot just let you take him from class without having the office notified.” She explained and the man glared over at her.
“Get up, now.” He growled not taking his eyes off the teacher, she looked at him confused but her eyes crossed to Ryou when the teen, pushed back his chair and stood. Squeezing Bakura’s hand and not letting go.
“Move, we are leaving.” The man glared at him and Bakura one more time before turning to leave. Ryou’s looked down at Bakura with a sad smile before he finally let go of his hand. He pushed his book towards the elder teen before walking towards his guardian.
“Hurry it up boy!” The man shouted and Ryou yelped slightly before running the last few steps to the door, Kerro smacked him on the back of the head as he walked out of the room and slammed the door shut, cracking the glass.
Bakura was on his feet the moment the door was shut, he gathered Ryou’s book aswell as his own before moving quickly to the door.
“Bakura…” The teacher called out.
“It’s alright, we knew this would happen. I have a plan.” The elder called out as he slipped from the room quietly.
“Good luck.” She called out before turning back and calming the class. “I’m going to call the principal, please return to your work.” She said before drawing her phone and informing her boss of what just happened.
Bakura heard her words and smiled slightly before sprinting down the hallway to the classroom he knew Marik and Malik were in. He skidded on the slick tiles and banged on the door before pulling it open. Everyone looked up at him including the teacher but he just panted.
“Marik, now.” He huffed before running off again.
Marik lept to his feet, dragging Malik along with him and the two left, running to catch up to Bakura who had stopped at another classroom.
“Yami, comeon.” He called and the three were soon joined by a worried Yami and Yugi. Bakura then started at a run towards the schools entrance.
“What is going on guys?” Yami asked and Bakura glanced quickly back at Marik before continuing on, Marik nodded to the silent request before explaining their plan to the three who were yet to be informed.
“What! I am not staying back while you three go, I want to be there for Ryou aswell!” Malik yelled and a ‘Yeah’ also came from Yugi.
“Shut up, there they are.” Bakura growled as he skidded to a stop at a corner. The four of them listened in as they followed at a slower pace.
Ryou whined quietly as he felt the man’s grip on his arm increase, any tighter and he would break it.
“Friday, you know what happens today. I will be lenient with this little charade you have pulled, I will punish you, however I need you in working order so your punishment will have to wait until the weekend.” The man explained and Ryou nodded.
“Yes master.” Ryou responded looking down at the floor.
“I didn’t believe Tyson when he told me what happened.” The man growled and Ryou whimpered. “The punishment he gave you doesn’t suffice, you will also get extra punishment for your ‘Friends’ interference, really slave, I thought you would have learned by now.” The man snarled and Ryou nodded.
Marik had to yank Bakura back before he alerted the man to his presence. Marik glared at him before thumping his foot against the floor twice, Kerro was too engrossed in his words to hear it but Ryou’s head shot up, no other outward sign showed that he had heard it. Quiet filled the hall again Untill Ryou thumped the tip of his shoe, rolled his foot and banged his hill against the floor all in one step. Yami then knocked his knuckles twice on the locker to his left before stomping once. Ryou created another sequence of sounds using his feet and the fingers on his free hand, which was behind his back. Marik sighed sadly before responding with a simple click of his hill. Ryou gave him the thumbs up and went to move his feet again before he got cuffed up the back of the head.
“Stop that.” He growled before squeezing Ryou’s arm tightened. Ryou’s eyes clenched shut and his hands fisted, teeth clamping over his lip in an attempt to stop from screaming in pain.
“Sorry Master.” He ground out and the man smirked before yanking his arm and continuing faster, the movement jolted his shirt and Ryou pointed to his waist with his spare arm. Bakura’s eyes moved over to Kerro’s waist and he was surprised to see the switchblade tucked neatly beneath the band of his pants. Bakura quickly withdrew the book and flipped to the page at the back of the book. He nudged Marik and showed him the picture gesturing to the blade. Marik nodded before whispering something to Malik, he then pulled Yami, Yugi and Bakura out of clear site. Malik took a deep breath before running towards the two, he collided with Kerro, slipping his hand to his waist and drawing the blade, which was then slipped into his own waistband before the three caught their balance. The impact had knocked Kerro away from Ryou and the younger sighed in relief, holding his arm.
“Sorry.” Malik bowed to Kerro, gritting his teeth in anger before he stood and continued looking at the floor, if the man saw his eyes, he may remember him. “I didn’t see you there.” He finished before continuing down the corridor at a run towards the front doors.
Kerro growled after him before continuing on his way.
“Stupid child.” He glared at the disappearing form, Ryou sighed with relief seeing his friends success and followed Kerro, glad the elder hadn’t grabbed him again.
Bakura, Marik, Yami and Yugi began following them again and the group stayed silent. They followed the two through the doors and turned the corner to where they knew Malik would be waiting. Bakura continued to watch the direction where Kerro took Ryou as Malik proudly showed off the blade, to which he was rewarded with a deep kiss from Marik. Malik moaned and wrapped his arms around Marik’s neck, only pulling back when Bakura cleared his throat.
“Yugi, Malik. You need to head to my place now, we need to follow them.” Bakura said and growled when the mentioned teens whined. “Do not complain.” He snapped before looking at them, his eyes had darkened in his anger and the four looked at him with worry. Seeing the looks he was getting he shook his head and sighed. “Sorry.” He said softly, looking down at the floor and was surprise when he felt a comforting hand on his shoulder. He looked up to see Yugi looking at him with a smile.
“It is ok Bakura, your frustrated, we understand.” He leaned up on his toes and lightly kissed Bakura on the cheek before whispering to him. “Now go save our Ryou.” He then took the keys from Marik and dragged Malik after him. Bakura watched them go with sad eyes before he felt arms wrap around him, he froze. He looked over his shoulder at Marik who was smiling down at him.
“Let’s go.” Marik’s eyes hardened and Bakura nodded, before the three of them ran through the parking lot towards Marik’s car. The three of them all got in, Marik driving, Bakura in the passenger seat and Yami in the back. As they got onto the main road the three scanned the street before Bakura noticed Kerro’s car and pointed it out to Marik who discretely speed up so they wouldn’t lose them. They drove for almost 10 minutes before Kerro pulled into a driveway. The house was really nice, Bakura was shocked by it.
“This is Ryou’s childhood home.” Marik told him, “Kerro does have his own place but he never takes Ryou there. Kerro just moved into Ryou’s parents house when he took guardianship over Ryou.”
Bakura nodded in understand and Marik parked the car across the street, the three watched as Kerro got out of the car and walked around it, he opened Ryou’s car door and pulled the teen out by his elbow before shoving him towards the front door. Ryou stumbled dropping to his knees, but a rough hand pulled him up by the back of his neck and continued to shove him towards the house. He waited, watching the floor as Kerro opened the door and yelped when he was shoved inside, smacking his knee against the doorframe.
“Shut up and get to work.” The others heard Kerro snarl before the door was shut.
Marik looked over at Bakura frown, the white-haired teen was gripping the dashboard with crushing force with his eyes squeezed shut.
“Bakura… We must move.” Yami whispered and he received a small noise of acknowledgment before Bakura slowly released the dashboard and got out of the car, he shut the door alittle harder than usual before discretely crossing the street with Marik and Yami right behind him. They snuck around the side of the two-story house and moved through the open side gate, out into the backyard. They were looking around when the back door slid open, all three heads shot to the figure who had not noticed them as he turned to slide the back door shut.
Chapter 13
“Ryou…” Bakura whispered and the younger jumped before spinning around with wide eyes. He was completely naked except for a white apron that left little to the imagination.
“B-Bakura…” Ryou whined lowly before dropping the basket and limping towards them before jumping into the elders arms. He wrapped his sore limps around Bakura’s neck and nuzzled into him, crying softly. Bakura carefully rubbed the youngers back, looking at Marik and Yami who were looking at Ryou with sad eyes.
“It’s ok Kitten, what happened when he pushed you inside?” Bakura asked softly and Ryou sobbed before shaking his head, the three elders knew what had upset the younger, his limping was hard to miss. “My little one, I promise this will all end soon.” Bakura whispered, burying his nose into Ryou’s hair, they jolted away from each other when a voice ran from the house.
“Slave, hurry the fuck up, my guests will be here soon!” Kerro yelled from where he sat in the loungeroom and Ryou looked over his shoulder towards the washing. He reluctantly let go of Bakura to grab the basket before heading towards the washing line.
“H-Hai Master.” He called back, Bakura walked over and helped him hang the washing, Yami and Marik helped too. When it was done Ryou sighed before throwing his arms around Bakura’s neck and crashing his lips against the elders. Bakura was shocked at first before he responded, licking at the youngers lips, surprised when Ryou parted them almost straight away. Bakura then deepened this kiss, pouring all his love into it. When Ryou pulled away Bakura rested his forehead against the youngers and the two just looked at eachother for afew minutes.
“I love you…” Bakura whispered and Ryou smiled slightly, he pecked Bakura’s lips one more time before pulling away, picking up the basket and running inside. Afew seconds later the sound of a vacuum could be heard.
Marik motioned to Yami and Bakura before moving towards a window near them. The other two followed and the three peaked through the window. They could see Ryou in the loungeroom vacuuming the floor and Kerro on the couch watching the tv. He kicked Ryou in the side when the younger got in his way and Ryou yelped before grabbing his side with his free hand and dragging the vacuum out of the way so Kerro could see the tv.
“Sorry Master.” Ryou ground out, bowing lightly before he continued to clean the house, Vacuuming, dusting and all the while, avoiding Kerro. When the cleaning was done and he had put the vacuum away, he re-entered the loungeroom and stood by the couch at Kerro’s feet. He drop to one knee with his head lowered and didn’t move.
Bakura looked at Marik and Yami confused but the three ducked at the sound of Kerro’s voice.
“Go make lunch.” He growled and Ryou immediately stood.
“Hai Master.” He responded before quickly making his way into the kitchen. The three watched quietly before they snuck around the house and to the kitchen window. Ryou entered the kitchen, washed his hands and then proceeded to make lunch for Kerro.
“Are you alright?” Yami whispered through the window and Ryou looked up, smiling lightly before nodding to let them know he was ok. As he moved around the kitchen cooking Yami, Marik and Bakura could see the look of longing in his eyes.
“Just eat alittle, you’re hungry.” Bakura whispered, worried for him.
“I’d rather not get beaten infront of you guys if its all the same.” Ryou whispered and he sighed when Bakura whined and his words.
“Then at least have some water…” Marik responded but Ryou just shook his head and picked up Kerro’s food, he then left the room and headed back into the loungeroom, his three followers moving back to the other window. Ryou placed the plate down on the table and resumed his kneeling position beside Kerro with his eyes closed. Nothing happened for a few hours and it was now 4 in the afternoon, the boys began to think that nothing would happen, that was when Kerro’s phone rang, he picked it up talking swiftly before he hung up and kicked Ryou again. The younger jolted but didn’t appear to be harmed by the second kick.
“Go get the snacks ready, they are almost here.” Kerro demanded and Ryou nodded.
“Yes Master.” He responded before leaving the room to the kitchen. The three were about the go back to the kitchen window when 3 cars drove up the street, 1 parked on the driveway, 1 on the lawn and the other on the street. Three men got out of the cars and Bakura immediately recognized the man who parked on the lawn as Tyson. He lead the other two towards the front door and banged on the wood.
“Slave! Get the door!” They heard Kerro’s voice and a minute later Ryou opened the door with a bowed head.
“Welcome to Master’s house, he is currently in the living room.” Ryou smiled politely bowing as each man passed him the first one groped his ass, the second kissed him and Tyson slapped him with a glare. When all three were inside, Ryou shot a sad look in the direction he knew his friends were before going back inside and closing the door. Bakura growled angrly before he moved back to the window and watched as the men all took up seats in the loungeroom, Ryou entered from the kitchen with a tray full of food and drink, he set it down on the coffee table, handing out the drink and allowing everyone to get their own food before kneeling beside Kerro again.
“Man my feet are killing me.” One of the men whined, flinching as he rested his feet in the carpet.
Kerro clicked his fingers and Ryou released a silent sigh before crawling over to the other man. He nuzzled into the man’s leg to get his feet onto his back before shifting onto his elbows and knees and resting there. He was facing the window and at his friends faces he tucked his head into his elbow to avoid their eyes.
“That better?” Kerro laughed and the man smiled, kicking Ryou lightly before re-resting his foot.
“Much.” He chuckled and the three then began to converse as they ate and drank.
The sun was starting to set when the chatter was broken by Ryou.
“M-Master…” He called softly and Kerro glanced down at him with annoyed eyes. “I apologies for interrupting your discussion Master, but I need to use the bathroom.” Kerro sighed before waving his hand.
“Very well, but hurry back, everyone is very stressed.” Kerro grinned and Ryou shivered before pulling out from under the man’s legs and rushing down the hall.
Bakura turned back to Marik and looked over his shoulder.
“How is the recording going?” He asked and Marik nodded keeping the lens focused on the loungeroom.
Ryou quickly left the bathroom to return to the loungeroom when Kerro yelled out to him.
“Slave, hurry into the kitchen we want beer.” He called out and Ryou replied with the usual ‘Yes Master.’ Before running into the kitchen.
“I’ll be right back.” Bakura whispered before he slipped around the house and towards the kitchen window.
“Ryou…” He whispered and the younger looked up from the fridge. “Where’s the knife?” He asked lightly and Ryou looked at him confused before Bakura held his hand over his heart. Ryou’s hand copyed the action and brushed over his scar through the material of the apron. Ryou then nodded before quietly opening the drawn and shuffling through its contents. Bakura’s eyes widened at the size of the knife that Ryou withdrew before he quietly shifted the window, Ryou passed the knife out through the small gap before smiling softly at Bakura. The elder nodded and quickly moved back to where Yami and Marik were still leaning against the wall. He passed Yami the knife and the teen slipped it beneath his belt before re-positioning his shirt over it. Ryou re-entered the loungeroom and passed around the four beers before retaking his kneeling position beside Kerro. Chatter refilled the loungeroom till the four men had all finished their beers and the sun was beginning to set.
“Alright guys, its getting late.” Kerro started as he stood up, he pulled Ryou to his feet and ripped the apron from him before tossing him down on the glass table. Bakura snarled viciously and struggled when Yami’s arms wrapped around his waist and mouth, holding him back.
“Relieve your stress then get out of my house.” Kerro laughed before he left the room. Ryou whimpered as the three men began to unbuckle their belts. He turned so his eyes locked with the deep blue of Bakura and he mouthed. ‘Please, don’t watch.’ Bakura whined as tears started to fall and Yami had to pull him from the window, Marik made sure the camera was still in place before turning away himself. The three flinched as Ryou’s painfilled cry’s broke from within the house. An hour had passed before a voice broke through the crys of pain.
“Alright you bastards, that’s enough. I don’t want the neighbours calling the cops because of his worthless crys.” Kerro said and a few painfilled shrieks came before it went silent.
“We had a good afternoon, my friend. Can’t wait for next Friday.” Tyson chuckled and Kerro joined in as he lead them towards the front door.
“Thanks for coming guys, have a safe drive home.” Kerro called as they all got in their cars and drove off. Kerro waved to them before turning back inside and closing the door. The three teens returned to the window in time to see Ryou struggling up from his position on the floor, he had a deep cut above his left eye from where he smacked his head on the tables edge when he was tossed to the floor.
“Get up, I want dinner.” Kerro snarled as he kicked Ryou in the stomach and the younger’s hand flung to his mouth as blood came up.
“H-Hai Master.” He stuttered as he struggled to his feet and limped into the kitchen.
He slumped against the counter as he caught his breath before slowly starting to cook. He sighed when he felt the three sets of eyes watching him and gave them a very sight smile. Whilst moving around the kitchen, Ryou had to keep rushing to the sink to throw up bile and blood, having nothing left in his system.
“Bakura…” He whispered after washing his mouth out for the third time.
“Yes love…” Bakura whispered and Ryou stumbled before getting his balance and looking at the three teens through the window.
“The box cutter… It’s in the shed.” He whispered and Bakura nodded before nudging Marik, he and Yami then stealthily made their way across the lawn and into the shed to search for the last blade. “I’m sorry Bakura.” Ryou whispered as he continued to unsteadily cook.
“Please don’t apologize to me Kitten… I…” Bakura sighed before resting his hand against the window separating them. “I’m proud of you.” His voice was so soft that Ryou thought he had misunderstood the elders words. He looked at Bakura with confusion. “You are so strong my love, I am so proud of you for getting through this. I promise you, this will all be over, come daybreak.” Bakura whispered reassuringly and Ryou shakily rose his hand to rest it against Bakura’s through the window.
“Thankyou Bakura… I” Ryou smiled slightly before resting his forehead against the window. “I love you.” He then pulled away, quickly gathered Kerro’s dinner before leaving the kitchen to take the man his food. Bakura ran to the window to watch Ryou place the plate before Kerro, he then kneeled down again as the man ate. Afew minutes had passed before Marik and Yami had joined him at the window.
“We found it.” Yami whispered flashing the box cutter in Bakura’s view and the teen nodded, Marik slipped the last blade into his back pocket and the three waited for Ryou to be dismissed. 20 mins had passed before Kerro knocked Ryou on the shoulder.
“Clean up.” He growled and Ryou nodded.
“Yes Master.” He whispered as he grabbed Kerro’s plates aswell as the beer bottles and made sure the table was clean before heading into the kitchen. He threw out the bottles and placed the plate in the sink before washing it and the dishes. He looked up into the three sets of eyes watching him and gestured to the side of the house where they had been hiding with a flick of his head.
“My room is the one with the small window that is bared shut.” He whispered and Marik slowly snuck off to look for said window. Ryou quickly finished washing up, he whispered a Thankyou before leaving the kitchen for the loungeroom. He approached Kerro awaiting his dismissal.
“Draw me a bath and go to bed.” The man demanded and Ryou nodded, before quickly making his way to the bathroom. He flied the bath making sure it was a decent temperature and added the bath salts and oils. He then dried his hands and made his way to his room. He stopped in the loungeroom.
“Master, your bath is drawn.” He called and the man grunted before getting up and heading for the bathroom.
Ryou sighed before continuing towards his small dark room. Bakura and Yami had joined Marik in looking up at a small barred window and they smiled lightly when light flooded through the bars, but quickly disappeared as the door was closed. They heard shuffling and grunting as Ryou climbed onto the cage he slept in so he could reach the window. He stuck his hand through the bars and was immediately comforted by the warmth of Bakura’s hand.
“Love, where is Kerro?” Bakura whispered and Ryou squeezed his hand.
“He is in the bath now.” Ryou whispered back and Marik spoke up.
“What is the quietest way out of the house?” Marik asked and Ryou hummed.
“Master’s bedroom window is always open and the large tree is right beside it, but I can’t climb… It hurts too much.” Ryou whimpered and Bakura whined upset by Ryou’s pain.
“Go up there, if you can at least get into the tree, we can get you down.” Yami said and Ryou nodded before squeezing Bakura’s hand and retracting his back through the window, struggling followed by light then darkness told Ryou’s escape from the room.
“What do you plan to do Yami?” Bakura asked and the teen smirked.
“You’re the one who said he was very light.” He commented before walking towards the tree that stretched towards a window on the second floor, Marik and Bakura following.
Ryou carefully made his way up the stairs, avoiding all the ones that he knew creaked before sneaking down the hall and slipping through Kerro’s ajar bedroom door. He quickly crossed the plush carpet and leaned out the window, Marik, Yami and Bakura were waiting below. He sighed before gripping the branch and pulling himself out onto the sturdy wood. He slowly inched towards the trunk and softly called down.
“What now?” He asked and Yami smirked.
“Let go.” He called up and Ryou gawked at him.
“What! No!” He yelped softly and Marik smirked.
“Don’t you trust that Bakura will catch you?” He asked semi-serious and Ryou frowned before locking eyes with Bakura. The teen was holding out his arms directly beneath him, ready to catch him when he let go.
“A-Alright.” Ryou stuttered, he slowly lowered himself so he hung from the branch by his arms. He squeezed his eyes shut and let go.
Chapter 14
Ryou yelped as his back made contact with the hard muscles in Bakura’s arms. He immediately flung his arms around Bakura and nuzzled into his neck, releasing soft sobs. Marik being the biggest of the three dressed teens pulled off his shirt and wrapped it as best he could around Ryou before the four teens quickly left the yard, Bakura got into the passenger seat of Marik’s car and cradled Ryou close to him. Rubbing the shaking teens back and rocking him in hopes of soothing his distressed state. Marik got in the driver’s seat as Yami slid into the back, both glanced worriedly at the two whitettes.
"Bakura..." Marik asked softly and the elder teen just nodded, pulling the shaking form in his lap closer to him and tucking his face in the youngers ruffled white hair.
Marik nodded sadly before he pulled off the curb and headed towards Bakura's house. The drive was silent apart from Ryou's whimpers and Bakura's soft cooing. When they pulled into the driveway of Bakura's house the elder white quickly got out of the car and headed to the front door, followed closely by Marik and Yami. The blonde went to call out to the two teens in the house when Bakura thumped his knee against the door frame and a click sounded from the door, he nudged the door open with his shoulder and headed straight upstairs, dodging as he passed a worried Yugi and Malik. The two youngers looked to Marik and Yami questioningly.
"They will be alright, we have work to do." Marik assured as he wrapped his arm around Malik's shoulder and led him into the loungeroom, Yami and Yugi following closely behind.
"So what have you found out so far?" Yami asked as walked into the kitchen to grab a drink. Yugi slid into a seat at the table and continued his work on the laptop. Malik ducked out of Marik's hold and took his hand, pulling the elder over to the table, beside the laptop was a pile of papers spread over the table. Malik picked up one of the top papers and skimmed over it.
"He guy is clean." He muttered before looking over at Marik who moved to stand beside him. "Did you get the..." Malik started, but stopped when Marik drew the box cutter from his back pocket and lay it over the papers, The knife, which Yami untucked from his pants also joined it. Yugi's fingers froze ion the keys and his eyes widened at the size of the knife. Yami placed a comforting had on his shoulder and silence filled the room. It was broken by the sound of water running upstairs.
Bakura carried Ryou into the bathroom after gathering some clothes and a towel for the younger. He laid the towel over the edge of the bath and sat the clothes on the basin before unwrapping the youngers arms from his neck and sitting him lightly on the toilet seat. The younger whimpered, shifting to try and lessen the pain.
"I'm sorry love but I need both hands." Bakura whispered in apology before he knelt down and drew some bottles and a cloth from the cabinet before turning on the bath taps and adjusting the heat of the water. With the water tempered and running, Bakura moved back over to Ryou and attempted to pull Marik's shirt from the youngers grasp but pale fingers tightened on the shielding fabric and the smaller teen whimpered, backing further into the cool porcelain of the toilet seat. "It's ok love, I just need to check your injuries before helping you to the bath." Bakura whispered soothingly and Ryou's grip loosened allowing Bakura to lightly remove the fabric, which he then laid on the floor beside him. Ryou flinched when Bakura's hands rested lightly on his shoulders, he tried to draw away from the touch as his hands started to trail down thin biceps but Bakura just cooed lightly and continued to check the younger over. He checked over the youngers arms, shoulders and back before carefully checking his chest and stomach. Ryou whined lowly when Bakura's fingers brushed over his partially bruised stomach, healed in places and darkened in others from the three separate kicks he had received in less than a week. Finding no more than the bruise across his stomach, Bakura moved down to the youngers legs avoiding his hips. Once satisfied he had checked the younger's body he moved up to look into the youngers sad, slightly frightened eyes and lay his hand against the youngers flushed cheek. His eyes trailed to the cut above the youngers left eye and he frowned slightly, the wound had stopped bleeding and the blood already shed had dried and crusted on his pale skin. Bakura stood up slowly, before placing a light kiss on Ryou's forehead before holding out his arms to the younger. Ryou looked at his hands sadly before looking down at his own which had been curled in his lap since the shirt had been taken away. "Love let me help you into the bath..." Bakura cooed softly as he softly rested his hand against the youngers exposed wrist, when he attempted to pull the arm from its protective position across the youngers lower half, Ryou let out a distressed noise and Bakura pulled his arms back and sighed, he returned his left hand to the youngers cheek, getting the attention of the dulled green eyes he loved so much. "You do not need to hide yourself from me kitten, I told you. I love you and nothing will change that, I just want to help." Bakura reassured and smiled lightly when Ryou gave a small nod, before raising shaking hands. He wrapped his trembling fingers around the hand resting against his cheek and Bakura noted that the youngers eyes seemed to brighten even just alittle. His smiled grew as he lightly retracted his hand from the youngers grasp and lightly pulled the younger to his feet. On unsteady limbs, Ryou stumbled slightly gripping onto Bakura's shoulders to help stabilize himself. He smiled lightly when Bakura's arms snaked around his lower back to give him more support, then Bakura helped the younger over to tub, taking the brunt of the youngers weight as he stepped over the side before slowly lowering Ryou into the water. The teen yelped and hissed as his abused body was hit with the steamy water, he clung to Bakura's arm not wanting to be let go and Bakura quickly reached over to stop the flow of the water, which now reached the edge of the bath.
"Love, please try to relax, your safe now." Bakura whispered, rubbing his hand along the youngers back trying to help him relax. Slowly Ryou's grip on his hand loosened and Bakura smiled reassuringly to him before moving to gather the cloth he had brought with him. He frowned as he caught sight of the toilet seat where the other had been resting while he drew the bath, the white porcelain was covered in blood and... He flinched as he realized what the second substance on the seat was and a low growl grew in his chest. Ryou jumped at the noise but calmed when Bakura quickly turned back to his side and laid a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"Sorry love, I didn't mean to scare you." He whispered a Ryou nodded, turning to watch as Bakura dunked the cloth into the soapy water and drew it to his shoulder before lightly brushing the cloth over his pale skin. Ryou's eyes closed and his head lay back at the soft touch of Bakura washing him. Bakura smiled at the younger as he continued cleaning him, dunking the cloth in the bath water every so often to refresh the wetness and soapiness in the cloths threads. He cleaned the youngers left arm before dragging the cloth across the youngers neck, washing lightly over the youngers scar before continuing down his right arm. He then proceeded to wash the youngers shoulders and neck before dunking the cloth, squeezing the water from it and delicately cleaning the youngers face, wiping away the dried blood and sweat marring the pale skin. Bakura cooed softly to Ryou as he started to wash the youngers chest and bruised stomach, the whitette bit his lip, releasing a moan of pain as the cloth brushed over the tender skin. Delaying the hardest part the longest, Bakura laid his hand between the youngers shoulder blades and lightly pushed him forward so he could access the youngers back.
"Kitten, I'm going to try and relieve some of the tension and pressure in your lower back alright." Bakura warned as he started to wash the youngers back. As he neared the youngers lower back his hand had delved beneath the hot water, spreading his fingers out, he lightly dug his tips into Ryou's tender flesh and began needing the skin and muscles. Ryou released a low moan of appreciation at the elder’s actions and rested his head against Bakura's shoulder with his eyes closed and his mouth parted in a pleasurable pant. Bakura continued his soothing actions only stopping once he noticed Ryou was starting to drift off to sleep.
"Kitten, please try to stay awake till I'm finished cleaning you." Bakura whispered and Ryou gave a soft nod, sighing when Bakura's hands retracted from the pleasurable pressure he was receiving. "I know you are still shaken with what has happened and despite my best attempts you still seem to doubt my love Kitten, but I just want to help." Bakura spoke lightly as he freshened the cloth before lowering his hand beneath the water at Ryou's front, brushing lightly against the youngers lower stomach before lowering further. Another distressed whine fell from Ryou at the light touch against his manhood and he gripped the side of the bath with one hand, his other hand shifted from Bakura's shoulder to delve into the elders white locks, where he gripped the silky strands as he attempted to hold himself still as Bakura cleaned him. Despite his worry and pain, Ryou couldn't help but release a soft moan as Bakura lightly stroked him, ensuring he cleaned the younger properly. Just as he was about to pull his hand back to clean another part of the youngers lower regions a pale hand grasped his wrist and held the larger hand against his member. Startled blue met alluring green and the younger smiled at him.
"Kura... Please, help me erase their touch." Ryou whispered, his eyes shining with tears, Bakura continued to try and retract his hand before Ryou's spare hand reached up and touched his cheek, before pulling his head down to the youngers lips. They met in a tender kiss and when Ryou pulled back he shifted slightly to whisper in the elder’s ear. "Touch me..."
"Are... Are you sure?" Bakura stuttered, the younger pulled back and nodded, shifting the hand gripping Bakura's wrist so the elders hand pushed harder against his member.
"I only want you touching me in such a way." Ryou responded and Bakura nodded before leaning forward to gently kiss the other, his hand discarded the cloth in the water and lightly wrapped around the semi-hard erection in his palm. He slowly stroked the abused flesh kneading it beneath his skilled touch as he pleasured the younger. Ryou moaned freely into the kiss lightly bucking his hips into the elder’s hand. He winced as the action jarred his lower back and backside and Bakura frowned, pulling back from the kiss, Ryou whined when his hand stopped stroking him but a finger to his lips widened his eyes as he looked at Bakura with sad confusion.
"I will pleasure you Kitten, but the bath cannot be very comfortable. Allow me to finish cleaning you, then I will continue this on the bed, it will be more comfortable there." Bakura said softly and Ryou nodded, squeezing his eyes shut as Bakura recollected the cloth and approached the area he was trying to avoid. He flinched when Bakura made contact with his abused rear, the elder’s actions were tender as he washed Ryou's cheeks and entrance, brushing the youngers erection with his forearm as he moved. A tear fell down Ryou's cheek as Bakura worked and the elder softly apologized, finishing quickly before sweeping over Ryou's legs and finishing with his clean by softly washing the youngers hair. Once done he drained the bath and gathered Ryou up in a soft towel, Ryou's arms flung around his neck as he was carried bridal-style from the bathroom and into Bakura's bedroom. Bakura lightly lay the younger against his black silk sheets and stood back. He looked down at his bloodied sleeve from where Ryou's rump had bleed on him as he carried the younger home and looked back to Ryou who was watching him with anxiety and worry.
"I will just change my top love then I will be right back." Bakura whispered and Ryou shook his head holding out his arms for the elder. Bakura looked at him confused but approached the younger, he was surprised when Ryou pulled him forward by the collar of his top, smashing their lips together with a moan. "Kitten, I really don't want to be reminded of what happened, the blood brings it to the forefront of my mind." Bakura whispered but Ryou didn't relent, instead the youngers fingers fumbled with the buttons of his top, quickly discarding the stained material and tossing it away. Bakura was stunned when Ryou yanked him over himself, the elders knees positioned between the youngers legs, their chests resting lightly against each other. When Ryou finally released Bakura from the brusing kiss, both were flushed and panting.
"Are you sure about this kitten?" Bakura whispered as he softly kissed Ryou's neck.
"Yes, please. I want to feel you." Ryou whimpered as he tightened his legs around Bakura's lower half and grinded up against him with a low moan.
"Alright," Bakura relented before pulling back and looking Ryou in the eyes. "But if you me to stop, you must tell me and I will. I will not force you into anything." Ryou nodded at the elders words and released a deep moan when Bakura's lips returned to his neck.
Bakura nuzzled into Ryou's throat and nipped him lightly before kissing his way slowly down Ryou's neck and chest. He lightly licked at the youngers left nipple, nipping and sucking the bud as his hand fondled the right one. Ryou had delved his left hand into Bakura's hair as he bit down on his right breathing heavily through his nose. Bakura lapped at the peaked nub once more before moving to give the right nipple the same attention, fondling the left. When done, he nuzzled Ryou's chest before continuing south, lapping and kissing the youngers bruised stomach before bruising his fingers across Ryou's lower stomach. He moved lower nipping and kissing at Ryou's right inner thigh before he retracted to look up at Ryou. The teen was resting on his right elbow, left hand still buried in Bakura's hair, his head was thrown back, mouth slightly agape as he panted in pleasure, still trying to hold in his moans. Bakura grinned before lowering his gaze again and blowing lightly over the now fully erect member. Ryou's breath hitched and he opened his eyes to look down at Bakura who returned the gaze lovingly. Without breaking eye contact, Bakura licked from base to slit before taking the tip into his mouth and sucking lightly. Ryou couldn't hold back and more and his pleased moans caressed Bakura's ears as the elder slowly lowered down the youngers length, twirling his tongue and sucking strongly on the erect member. Ryou started bucking up into the heat of Bakura's mouth, but the elder held his hips down as he began to bob his head. Feeling Ryou reaching his end, Bakura abruptly pulled back and when Ryou went to complain, the elders hand wrapped tightly around his member, stroking swiftly. Ryou seemed satisfied with the continued pleasure and began moaning again. Bakura took two fingers into his mouth and quickly lathered them in his saliva before retracting them and diving back on the youngers member, Ryou cried out in pleasure and Bakura allowed the younger to buck into his mouth, unrestrained. Ryou barely noticed Bakura's finger probing lightly at his entrance but he yelped when the thin appendage breached. To distract the younger, Bakura began to hum around the erect member and slowly started to thrust his finger into the youngers entrance. He twitched his finger around and smirked when Ryou let out a strangled cry. Bakura prodded the youngers prostate before retracting his finger only to push back in with a second beside it. Ryou moaned lightly in discomfort and Bakura doubled his efforts on the youngers member to distract him from what Bakura was doing. Bakura slowly shifted his fingers waiting for Ryou to adjust to the feeling. It wasn't long till Bakura was thrusting his fingers into the youngers prostate while Ryou was bucking into Bakura's mouth without abandon. Bakura relaxed his throat to take Ryou in deeper and swallowed around the member as Ryou thrust up, at the constricting feeling around his hard member, Ryou whined trying to thrust harder. He had never felt so much pleasure in his life, he felt like he was going to burst. Bakura knew he was close and doubled his efforts, breathing deeply through his nose Bakura hummed one more time and Ryou cried out his name as he came into Bakura's mouth. Bakura swallowed all the younger gave him before pulling back slightly and retracting his fingers. Ryou collapsed against the pillows, panting hard, his right hand still buried in the elder’s locks. Ryou jolted when Bakura began to lick him clean, he sighed in contempt when Bakura kissed his member one more time before shifting up the bed until he was lying nose to nose with Ryou. He nuzzled into Ryou's face before kissing him lightly.
"Kitten, you should rest now." He whispered as he took in the youngers drooped eyes and exhausted breathing. Ryou nodded sleepily and Bakura rolled to the side before pulling Ryou to him so the younger rested over his chest. Ryou curled one arm up against his stomach, the other wrapped around Bakura's neck, his face nuzzled into the elder’s throat. Bakura had one arm wrapped securely around Ryou's waist, the other bent behind his head as he watched the younger drift off to sleep. At peace for the first time since that morning.
Chapter 15
"Kitten, you should rest now." He whispered as he took in the youngers drooped eyes and exhausted breathing. Ryou nodded sleepily and Bakura rolled to the side before pulling Ryou to him so the younger rested over his chest. Ryou curled one arm up against his stomach, the other wrapped around Bakura's neck, his face nuzzled into the elder’s throat. Bakura had one arm wrapped securely around Ryou's waist, the other bent behind his head as he watched the younger drift off to sleep. At peace for the first time since that morning.