Tying up loose ends [

[king_of_egypt]

I.

[There was no way that this wasn't going to be awkward, and honestly Atem had put this off for longer than he should have. Some of the things he'd done and said were a bit of a blur but one this was obvious- he'd lost control of his senses again and others might have been hurt by it. Sure, it was not as dramatic as the last time... But emotions were not to be toyed with. So he reached for his mirror and sought to address the populace in order to atone in some way.]

Heh... I suppose I owe you all an explanation for my behavior regarding last month. [For one day last month rather- it was a minor distinction so he didn't correct it. ] I don't fully understand it myself, since at that juncture many of us were affected in different ways. For those of you that weren't aware of it or who need a reminder... I was going around main street ...

[This is where Atem trailed off and swallowed hard, shifting uncomfortably in his chair. He folded his arms tightly against his chest and continued] Professing my love and undying affection for anyone I met. [Admitting is didn't make him feel any less idiotic] For that I apologize and I'm sorry if you found my insistence on that subject embarrassing or a nuisance. [Yes, good but it was missing something. Deciding better of putting Kaiba publicly on the spot he opted to go seek him out in person.] I do care for a good many of you.... Just not to that level. I was so sure of my feelings at the time... I wasn't really trying to deceive you. Just know that. [ Meaning the people who questioned it like Ciri, Crowley, and Mal had been right.] I'm sorry.

II.

[ With that display out of the way, he turned off the mirror and pocketed it before exiting his apartment and going to seek out Kaiba. He checked the other's room first but the brunette could be anywhere at this time if day. If need be he'd shoot Kaiba a private message to ask if they could meet up somewhere]

Kaiba. We need to talk. [If his haste Atem didn't consider how needlessly ominous that sounded. He just knew that what he had to say should be done in person.]

III.

[A good deal later, he addressed the network again]

I'm just curious, and I know this might seem trivial given our collective situation.... however I was wondering how many of you enjoy playing games? [Games were something Atem both greatly enjoyed and excelled at however he had a lack of opponents. Sure, he had played a game versus Crowley before, and there was always Kaiba but it wouldn't hurt to find some others. Besides they could use such activities to unwind when they needed to.]

I'm working on collecting a few.. [Mostly dice based so far, since it wasn't hard to locate dice and there were plenty of various ways to use them] .. but once I get something together..

Basically, I'm just trying to gauge the interest in having a gaming night, maybe more than one spaced out over time. So if you want in let me know, and I'll contact you at a later date.

Comments

[king_of_egypt]

[Normally Atem would have teased Kaiba over that bit about cuddling the whole block but this time he refrained. There was a time and a place for levity and it wasn't now]

This .... is all my fault.

[He quietly accepted. Either one of them could have reached out earlier but he considered his offenses to be greater, therefore the guilt was his to bear]

There's no excuse for it.

[Atem had kept a low profile the last month after that embarrassing episode, only going out on missions and to work. That being said both of those tasks had put him in a position where he had to interact with those he had.. propositioned. Had the isolation been some form of self-inflicted punishment? It was likely but had he known how it was making others suffer...]

Kaiba... [He voiced softly, surprised when he suddenly felt the warmth of the other's hand and the feathering of a kiss against his skin. Once again he didn't know how to prove to Kaiba that this was real. If he was so easily swayed months prior, and even more recently then it was plausible that he might never be fully in control.]

All I have to give you is my word. [Which isn't worth much these days....] ... but I know that I've my feelings for you extend beyond this world and incarnation. [That reminder went a long way towards reaffirming things in his own mind. It would be different had he only started to care for Kaiba in this dimension] What we have.. is real. [Smiling on that last part and exuding more confidence than he had during the course of most of this conversation]

[blue_ice]

[ Good choice of words, Atem. Some of the tension in Kaiba's expression loosens, and he breathes deeply. He dips forward, to rest his head on his pharaoh's shoulder. ]

I waited so long for you...I know now that you're what I want. And I'll fight any other curse that dares to pull me astray.

[ He pulls the man into a crushing embrace. ]

You mentioned new games. How about one of those...and a special prize for the winner? I have a new idea...

[king_of_egypt]

[The atmosphere between them seemed to change, and the weight that had centered itself over his chest lightened. The additional contact reassured him that he'd said something that his partner needed to hear] I wonder- given the nature of the previous curses, if we aren't being tested. [Atem had that inclination to think that everything happened by design and for a reason. Had they passed? He fell easily into the other's arms finally allowing himself to reciprocate by snuggling up against the brunette.] I'm not opposed to that.... if you're not afraid of losing. [He gently teased as he angled himself to place a kiss to Kaiba's jawline.] What sort of a prize did you have in mind?

[blue_ice]

Oh, I think...win or lose, we'll both be happy this time.

[ He lingers there a little while longer, humming with contentment. Finally he reluctantly pulls away, walks to his sock drawer to retrieve a few things, then places a sock on the outer doorknob before closing the door. The next thing he draws is a simple deck of playing cards. ]

Do you know what the sock means, Atem?

[king_of_egypt]

[Atem was unable to suppress a smile at that claim]

Don't think that I'll go easy on you, just because of that.

[Although the desire to conclude the game might be heightened. It was pleasant being able to share in each other's company like this again. He regretted having denied them this earlier. When Kaiba moved away, he repositioned himself on the couch and looked questioningly when the sock was retrieved. Was it going to be used in the game? Apparently not. Never having had the college experience he was oblivious to it's meaning]

Laundry day? [He hazarded though he honestly didn't think that was the real answer]

[blue_ice]

It means 'do not disturb'. It's also locked, but that will let my roommate know that he shouldn't knock.

[ If you get what he means. He shuffles the deck, then offers it to Atem for him to do the same. ]

Does that excite you? Do you wonder what I'm offering you? A chance...to get to know each other better, to make up for lost time.

Has someone taught you the rules of poker? We won't be wagering with chips...but secrets. And small favors, if you like.

[king_of_egypt]

[That turned his smile more into an intrigued smirk. It was impossible not to have his imagination run away with an opportunity like this. He quietly wondered whether Kaiba really knew what he was setting himself up for. Maybe he did- as he'd stated earlier this wouldn't be unpleasant for either of them.] [He crossed his legs and leaned forward, taking the cards when they were offered and mirroring the shuffling] Heh- I should have known, you won't be pulling any punches either. [Asking a question like that.] I am curious, and you have my full attention. [Or to put it more plainly, "yes, he was feeling excited"] 7-Card Stud, Follow the Queen, High/Low... [He trailed off rather than listing more since Atem figured he had already made his point. He assumed they would be playing the standard version, but if he was in error it would soon be apparent] I like the sound of that.

[blue_ice]

Standard will do.

[ The hand is dealt. He looks at his lineup---a weak hand, but he'll push anyway. ]

For the first round, something simple: and a freebie.

I owe you an apology as well. I shouldn't have allowed my old doubts about myself to keep us apart. I still struggle to trust, but you've earned it... and should you win this round, I'll seal my promise to you any way you like.

[king_of_egypt]

[Nodding to that he agreed to the terms.

The first hand only contained a pair, but he would bluff it as though it was a straight flush, if it would weaken Kaiba's confidence in his own.]

You must not have received anything interesting.

[What was proposed however was quite the opposite. Yes that last line was very interesting indeed]

It's alright, Kaiba. I knew that something like that was well outside of your nature. I never questioned it for a moment. I only regret having missed witnessing the aftermath. [Now a little teasing was appropriate. Just imagining the looks on people's faces as Kaiba tried to reestablish his image- it was priceless.] Since we aren't using chips, is it just going to be one truth, or favor per round? [Wondering if he should start the proceedings by discarding some of his cards]

[blue_ice]

[ He concedes with a snort. ]

I don't think Mal's planning to forgive me any time soon...but we may need more than one per round if we start to push our luck.

[ He draws again. The next round...mm, possibilities. He smiles over his cards. ]

And I think I will. You'll get one of each should you win this hand. Feeling lucky?

[king_of_egypt]

[He coughed] That makes two of us. [Apparently Mal had received the unwanted attentions from both of them.] [As they refreshed their hands, he scanned his eyes over his cards trying to keep his expression still. Atem debated whether Kaiba's newfound confidence meant he'd received a good hand or he was just playing it up] I'll match that- in fact I would raise it double.

[blue_ice]

I'll match that. Two of each. Let's let the cards fall where they may.

[ He has two pair---three and seven. His breath is held.]

[king_of_egypt]

[When Kaiba revealed his hand, Atem blinked a couple of times before shaking his head and displaying his own hand. Ace of hearts, 4 of diamonds, Queen of Hearts, 7 of spades, Jack of diamonds. Or in other words a whole lotta nothing.] You caught me. [Shrugging] What's my punishment?

[blue_ice]

Hmm....

[ Kaiba steeples his fingers together, amused. He could be mean...he could draw this out. ]

Tell me what you most missed this past month.

And kiss me. Where or how...I'll leave that up to you. We're still at the start, after all.

[king_of_egypt]

[This was only the first real set in a lengthier game, Kaiba might be feeling cocky now but Atem had a feeling the tables would turn later. So he awaited the response as coolly and patiently as he could.] Ah- what an open-ended question. Are you so sure that I will give you the answer you're hoping for? [He had every intention of complying but it was a little word of caution going forward. If Kaiba wasn't careful in his phrasing then Atem wouldn't be put on the spot nearly enough.] Companionship. That is what I missed the most. [Of who? Well that should be obvious] Even if this is the beginning- I don't see the harm in giving you a little taste of what you could be playing for. [That being said he moved closer to Kaiba, reaching up in order to yank Kaiba down into a passionate kiss full on the lips. He enjoyed the moment- doubly so for this fulfilled two needs. One, the need to reconnect with his boyfriend.. and two it was part of his strategy to throw off the others game.]

[blue_ice]

Noted.

[ Honestly Kaiba might've laughed at another answer. But he knew now to focus...or at least to try. It sure was difficult to think when his mind was on overload. He flailed a little but caught up after a second, gripping his boyfriend tightly and pouring his soul into this in kind.

He looked a little flustered when they parted, and he licked his lips as he considered his next hand. Not much---but he felt good. ]

Hm. I'll start at two, and throw in removing one piece of clothing. Your thoughts?

[king_of_egypt]

[Perhaps he should have offered up more in his answer than he had but there would likely be time to expand on it as the game progressed. Kaiba seemed so controlled as he responded, and how Atem would delight in his efforts to break that composure. He would think of it as an added bonus to this curious little game of theirs. The brief but obvious flailing was proof that his initial efforts were successful.

Admittedly, Atem grew a little lightheaded when the kiss was reciprocated with such fervor. They could just throw the cards off the table and let this continue.................................. but that wouldn't be in keeping within the spirit of the game. It would be just as difficult to maintain his own self-control. So when the kiss broke he attempted to play it cool and shifted his focus back to his cards]

So it's going to be strip Poker now, is it? [One side of his lips curved upwards but he wasn't going to complain] I'll match that- I Just hope you don't find it too drafty in this apartment Kaiba. [A little competitive banter was certainly in order, but this time he wasn't idly bluffing. When their hands were revealed, he'd be able to show off 3 of a kind (sevens)]

[blue_ice]

Not entirely...unless you want to. Just keeping you on your toes.

[ He has...a single pair of fives. Defeated, but not for long. He slowly pulls his shirt over his head, tosses it aside, and folds his hand behind his head. ]

Hm...a different secret this time. On my last mission, I had to infiltrate a group of drunken pirates. Imitating them was...a challenge, but what's the fun in life if you can''t find your sea legs, aye?

[ Has he had a drink tonight? It's possible. He snorts and glances at Atem, face slightly flushed. ]

I'll pour ye a glass while ye think a minute about what else ye want this round.

[ And he'll go do just that. Plenty of time to look and think, pharaoh. ]

[king_of_egypt]

Don't sound so hesitant.

[Just leaving it at that to tease Kaiba a little, also perhaps trying to gauge if that prospect concerned him. Without even having to direct the proceedings the first article of clothing was cast aside. That also served to temporarily silence the would be pharaoh as he just took a moment to appreciate what he just witnessed]

Did you really? Somehow I can't envision you with an eyepatch and a pegl- [That was about the point where the brunette had started to engage in giving an audible sample. Oh. Oh Ra- it wasn't going to be able to keep a straight face with this one. He tried however not wishing to injure the other's pride.

I could use my favor to ensure that he ceases talking like that.. he mused to himself. Ah- but that would have been a waste]

I have a simple favor to ask of you- all you have to do is sit still for a solid minute. [There had to be a catch, didn't there? Of course there was. For that minute Atem was planning on giving that newly exposed skin a thorough inspection by taking the liberty of smoothing his hands over it. Kaiba had still lost this round so having to restrain himself and not engage was part of the punishment for that.]

[blue_ice]

[ Luckily for Atem, he'll get both his wishes! Kaiba kneels in front of his boyfriend, hands resting at his sides and back straight. His expression is defiant, challenging, and maybe just a little suspicious.

For good reason. His muscles start to tense almost immediately when he realizes what Atem is planning. He wills himself to stay calm, presses his mouth in a thin line...but there's a sharp exhale he can't entirely contain. His boyfriend's hands are like fire on his skin,, like they're branding his racing heart, and he wants to badly to stop the game right now and kiss him senseless.

But he's stronger than that. There's an involuntary low whine from his throat when Atem pulls away, but after a moment he makes eye contact again, confident but doing his best to keep his cool. ]

All right. You've had your fun. Should you win, you get my full cooperation for twice as long, and imagine what you could do with that.

[ Is he laying out bait? Yup. Especially with how he stretches to ease the tension from having locked his arms for that long, bending them behind his head and cocking his head to the side a little. ]

[king_of_egypt]

[Just watching Kaiba get into such a submissive position was tantalizing, his expression in sharp contrast- a firm reminder to Atem not to abuse his temporary power. At least not too much. There was a reason why the brunette preferred to cover himself nearly from head to toe in fabric on a day to day basis. As Atem placed his hands to the other's chest, he tested his limits paying close attention to Kaiba's reactions. They were subtle but favorable. There was a level of apprehension but not discomfort so Atem allowed his fingers to wander more tracing the lines of Kaiba's muscles before drawing in close enough to slip his hands around to the back. The action brought his face close enough that his breath could be felt against Kaiba's shoulder as he exhaled. It would have been an excellent time to leave the game forgotten...... but when his time was up he relented and relinquished his boyfriend's personal space.] [The sound Kaiba emits ensures that the eye contact occurs] Only twice as long? Why Kaiba- you're more of a tease than I ever imagined. When I win this game in it's entirety I hope you'll consent to more than that. [It might not have seemed like it from his commentary but the bait had done as intended. It was actually some source of distraction, for as the next hands were dealt well... no amount of bluffing could mitigate what a horrible hand he compiled. It was embarrassing really.]

[blue_ice]

[ Oh wow. His heart is still racing from that punishment, his cheeks and chest flushed pink. But the fire is still in his eyes. ]

If you do.

[ Kaiba is careful not to be too gleeful about his hand until the cards are down. He licks his lips, brings the cards up to hide a secret smile behind them...and flips his high flush onto the table. He grins, taking the time to drag out his boyfriend's name. ]

I'll ask you one more question, Atem, before you offer your penalty as I did: and I choose to accept or embellish it, as you did.

When you were feeling me up just now, did you determine whether I was strong enough to handle you?

[king_of_egypt]

[The pinkish hue was evident against that lighter complexion and in truth Atem didn't think he'd ever seen Kaiba blush quite so much.]

I didn't misspeak. [He insisted, the smirk not leaving his lips]

[Kaiba doesn't have to try all that hard to mask whether the cards he's receiving are fortuitous or not. In a quite unexpected turn of events Atem was finding it hard to keep his attention on his cards. The last penalty had been a double-edged sword, the memory of his fingertips gliding against that smooth skin....... and the fact that his boyfriend was still shirtless, wasn't helping.

When the hands are revealed he's noticeably taken aback. To lose a round was one thing but quite so catastrophically was another.]

A flush- really?! [Looking between the cards laying on the table, and those azure orbs didn't alter the outcome in any way. Trying not to pout, he sat back on his seat and folded his arms awaiting his punishments]

What is this one question? [Ha- so that's the sort of query that was being posed was it?] That depends entirely on what you precisely mean. [Even though he was the one on the spot, Atem gazed up at Kaiba as if he were the one in control here] What I determined was that the close contact didn't make you too uneasy to proceed. In that sense, the answer would be yes.

Come now Kaiba, what's my penalty to be? You must have had some idea for your revenge. [Also he was totally going to try and play it safe by removing the cape if there were no objections. He was instantly regretting not having more layers to play with...]

[blue_ice]

I was referring to physical strength. I'll let you contemplate that for a minute.

[ Kaiba takes his sweet time leaning over the table and sizing his boyfriend up, one eyebrow raised in amusement. He licks his lips with anticipation when Atem pulls the cape---oh, it's not enough. But he'll just have to play harder.

For now, though, he shifts around the table and after a moment of thought, lies beside his boyfriend's hip and grins. ]

I'll show you what I mean. But it's your turn to sit still.

[ And he'll just shamelessly grab Atem, swing him around...and bench-press him, bringing him close but never quite embracing or kissing him. He barely breaks a sweat, breathing just a little harder but grinning all the while. He'll finally set him back down, reaching to flick his own hair out of his eyes. ]

Think about what you want from me for this next round, and I'll do the same.

[ His next hand isn't nearly as strong, but he's going to push it anyway. ]