Hello my favourite readers! :D I can't believe how long this chapter took! I'm so sorry about that, but I wasn't really in the mood to write about romance as I have been going through some heart brake, but hopefully this chapter will make it up to you, it's the longest one I've ever written! Wow. It goes without saying really, but I don't own any of the characters.

Enjoy :)

Today was going to be great. It was the middle of the school holidays and the sun had finally decided to show up. Yugi had watched as its feathery rays fell over the city as it rose. The pink and orange hues bouncing around in his shining eyes. He had quickly texted Ryou and Yami, asking if they wanted to go to the park for a picnic, completely disregarding how early an hour it was. Both had eventually said 'yes' after telling Yugi exactly how early it was. Yugi could only imagine how they looked replying to the text. Ryou, soft white hair tangled, eyes scrunched up, duvet covers everywhere. And Yami, probably as regal asleep as he looked awake, a mildly amused smirk plastered on his face and a gleam in his eye. Yugi, completely awake and enjoying the fact that he had probably stopped Ryou from getting back to sleep, quickly texted him again asking if he could come to Yugi's house to prepare the food. Yugi waited for a reply, but when it didn't come straight away he looked back out his window and watched the sun's slow ascent to its place in the sky. 

After all this time and he still couldn't decide if he liked sunrises or sunsets more. A quiet 'ding' startled him out of his silent debate. Yes! Ryou's coming over. If he had to admit it to himself, he was probably way too excited about a day at the park. But he felt like it was going to be a good day and couldn't shake the excited buzzing coursing through his veins. Not being able to sit still any longer he coaxed his body to move from its comfortable position and bounded out of bed. He grabbed a black T-shirt that had a purple design and a pair of black jeans on his way to the shower. Along with other necessary clothing of course.

Once clean, Yugi drifted to his bedroom, dumped his pyjamas on his floor and went to look for his bracelets. His wet hair left a damp trail behind Yugi as he searched his room. Huffing in annoyance when he couldn't think of where they were he absently combed a blonde bang behind his ear. Where the hell did I leave them? Moving over to his wardrobe he jumped back when his belongings fell from behind the door he had opened. Looking through the rubble that was the contents of his wardrobe he spotted a roll of photographs. Tilting his head to the side he leaned down slowly and picked up the object. 

A smile found its way to his lips as he realised what it was. A few days ago, Yugi, Yami, Ryou and Anzu had gone to the shopping centre. Yami had spotted a photo booth and insisted that Yugi go in with him. Eventually Yami had to drag him in, a firm hold on his wrists. Yugi remembered the feel of his touch. The way it sent lightning up his arms. Eventually he had just stopped resisting and let Yami tug him into the booth. When he had let go, Yugi found that he missed the contact. Yami started up the system and the countdown for the first photo began. Yugi remembered not knowing what to do, he had never done this before. Yami took care of that; he pulled Yugi close squishing their cheeks together and made a stupid face. Yugi couldn't help but laugh. For the next one they both turned so that they were back to back and stroke the pose on the cover of most spy movies. Ryou barging in and slinging his arms around the two other boys disrupted the next. Looking at it now, Yugi giggled at the surprise on his and Yami's face. The last photo had Anzu in it too, everyone giving the piece sign for the camera. It was only when four people were crammed into the small booth that Yugi realised how close to Yami he was. When Yami noticed he let out a deep chuckle. It ran through Yugi and his heart jolted.

Yugi ran his hand over the line of photos, the smooth gloss cool to the touch. Carefully he placed the pictures on his desk and went back to his hunt for the bracelets. These were actually a purchase from the day out shopping; Yami had chosen them for him. Finding them under his bed of all places, he slipped them on and did up the buckles. Looking in the mirror, he found that it was a very 'Yami' style but he managed to pull it off in his own way. Padding over to his door he quickly pulled on some socks and a pair of black combat boots. He made his way down the stairs as quietly as he could in his choice of shoes and darted into the kitchen. He hummed softly to himself as he put on the kettle and looked in the fridge for something for breakfast.

Footsteps behind him alerted him of his grandpa's presence,

 "Morning Grandpa," Yugi greeted, still looking in the fridge for something appealing.

"Ah, Yugi my boy, you're up early today," Sugoroku remarked, pulling two mugs from the cupboard and placing them in front of the kettle.

Yugi gave up on his search and decided on cereal instead, "Yeah, I was hoping that I could go to the park today with Ryou and Yami."

Sugoroku chuckled, "Yes, of course you can. Going to soak up the sun while you can huh?"

"Yeah well, it has been stormy for most of the holidays already," Yugi stated, putting his unexciting breakfast together, "we can have a picnic."

Sugoroku hummed in confirmation pouring tea for both of them. The two of them sat quietly at the kitchen table, enjoying the peace of the morning. Yugi munched on his cereal thoughtfully. Maybe today he'd ask Ryou why Yami made him feel weird. He'd have to explain of course that it wasn't a bad weird but was rather quite pleasant. He'd ask why Yami seemed always to be the subject of his thoughts and why his absence left him feeling empty.

"Yugi, I'll just be upstairs dealing with the finances if you need me." Sugoroku's voice startled him from his thoughts and he blushed when he realised what the thoughts were about.

"Sure thing Grandpa, Ryou will be over soon anyway," he squeaked

Sugoroku looked at Yugi curiously but continued on his way upstairs despite Yugi's guilty features. Letting out a sigh, Yugi shifted and stood, clearing the dishes away. Slowly he walked towards the shopfront and waited at the counter for his friend. He hummed a nameless tune to himself while absently fiddling with the tiny figures on the counter. The dark magician figure was his favourite. I think it's Yami's favourite too. Yugi shook his head, How do I even remember things like that? He sighed, it seemed to be happening a lot lately. It was just little things; favourite colour, favourite number, favourite food, favourite car, favourite music. Just every little insignificant thing that Yami seemed to say or do was stored away in Yugi's head. It was driving him crazy. Yugi sighed again, gripping his head in his hands, what is happening to me?

I familiar knock at the door gave Yugi reason to drop his thoughts and go greet Ryou.

"Morning Yugi," Ryou breathed.

Yugi could help but let out a giggle. Ryou was slouching, dressed in his usual blue and white striped shirt and a pair of skinny-jeans. His hair was more messy than usual and his eyes were dull.

"Sorry for waking you so early Ryou," Yugi tried, "it's just that the sun has finally appeared!"

Ryou smiled tiredly, "S'all right Yugi," he slurred, "but can I come in?"

Yugi's eyes widened then he smiled sheepishly, standing aside he swept his arm in a welcoming gesture and waited while Ryou stepped inside. He led his friend into the kitchen.

"So, I was thinking that we could just make sandwiches or something," Yugi started, "and maybe take some fruit and drinks?"

He looked back at Ryou for a reply only to find the albino leaning on the bench, head in his hand and eyes closed. Yugi smiled, Ryou really made it far too easy. Quietly he slid closer, lifting his phone to the perfect position and taking a picture.

"Oh yes, this is going in the album," Yugi chuckled evilly.

"Huh, Yugi?" Ryou shook himself awake, "did you say something?"

"Yes, do sandwiches and drinks sound good?" he asked innocently.

Ryou blinked at him slowly before realisation dawned in his eyes, "Oh, right, yes. That sounds good."

Yugi laughed softly before moving over to the kettle to re-boil the water, maybe coffee will help him.

"I think the picnic basket is in the cupboard near the stairs," Yugi stated, "you know, the one that Bakura tried to get you to go in with him when we played Sardines."

Ryou's gazed wondered over Yugi like they were looking for something in particular, but when his search came up empty, he only nodded and headed out of the kitchen. Yugi shook his head in exasperation; maybe I shouldn't have woken him up so early. He's acting weirder than usual. Waiting for the kettle, Yugi started getting out all the ingredients he'd need. He started dividing up the slices of bread and spreading butter out in a perfect coat. He looked up when Ryou stumbled back into the room. The albino looked around dazedly before placing the basket upon the bench and moving to finish making the coffee that Yugi had started. Yugi smiled happily, creating sandwiches with delicate care and practiced precision. He made some jam ones first, carefully manoeuvring the knife as to not get jam on his fingers. He heard Ryou slurp down some coffee and held back a quite snicker.

"Okay Yugi," Ryou sounding a bit more chipper moved to stand next to said boy, "what can I do to help?"

Surveying his work Yugi mentioned, "If you could gather up some fruit and drinks that would be great." Ryou nodded and started on his scouting mission. "Just what ever you can find will do. And for water, there are some empty bottles in the cupboard under the sink."

Yugi heard Ryou hum in acknowledgement. The two shifted around seemingly effortlessly while carrying out their assigned tasks, striking up conversation every now and then.

"So why are you so desperate to have a picnic Yugi?"

Yugi shrugged, "I don't know. I guess it's so we can finally go outside."

"But you don't like the outside."
Yugi laughed quickly, "Just any excuse to get out of doing more of that history essay I suppose."

Ryou laughed in agreement, placing the last of the fruit and drink in the picnic basket. Yugi quickly followed with the sandwiches, all of which were wrapped neatly in foil.

Yugi rubbed his hands together, "I guess that's that. I just need to grab the picnic rug."

Ryou nodded, gulping down the rest of his coffee and putting the mug away. Yugi smiled at his friend's manners before quickly running up to his room to grab the rug.

"We'll be off soon grandpa!" he called on his way back to the kitchen.

"Okay, stay safe!"

Yugi smiled softly at his grandpa's concern. Safe. When Yami's around, I always feel safe. Yugi's smile dropped, right, I was going to ask Ryou...

Entering the kitchen slowly, he glided over so he was across the bench to Ryou. Softly he placed the rug down and folded his hands together. He took a breath and looked up at Ryou who was gazing at him quizzically.

"Ryou, I, uh, have something to ask you..."

Ryou straightened slightly, "What about exactly?"

Yugi sighed, "Yami."

"Oh," Ryou let out a relieved sigh, "yes?"

Yugi looked down again, completely missing his friend's awkward expressions.

"Well, lately I've been feeling weird when ever he's around." He started, wringing his hands together.

"Okay."

"Not weird bad, but I suppose, weird good?"

"Okay."

"And he always seems to be on my mind. His smile, his laugh, his voice. I just... I don't know."

Ryou gazed at him softly, "When he's around does your heart beat faster?"

Yugi looked back up at Ryou, "Yes."

"When he brushes against you do you feel like there's a spark?"

"Sought of."

"When he smiles at you do you feel like the happiest person alive?"

"Yes"

"When you're apart from him do you feel like something's missing?"

"Yes," Yugi breathed. His heart was racing; he had no idea where this was going. Ryou blinked slowly, his large brown eyes full of understanding. He let out a quiet breath,

"Yugi, it's either you genuinely don't understand how you feel or you're denying it."

Yugi blinked back at him, "What?"

"Yugi, your in love."

Yugi's eyes widened and his heart fell past his stomach. He felt like his whole world just shook and cracked. No way, no way, no way. I can't be... But he's Yami!

"But that means... I can't be gay!"

His grandpa's voice sounded from upstairs, "Sorry Yugi, did you say something?"

Yugi cursed and turned to Ryou desperately, "I can't be gay." He said again, this time at a more reasonable decibel.

Ryou looked at him reassuringly, "Hey, it's a perfectly natural thing. Not everyone is attracted towards the opposite gender."

How could Ryou be so calm about this?

"But I don't want to be in love with my best friend."

Ryou let out a sigh that carried too much weight for such a young man,

"We can't choose who we fall in love with."

We can't choose who we fall in love with.

Ryou's words pounded in Yugi's head like a silent mantra as he entered the park. He wanted to yell, he wanted to scream out. It was so unfair! He didn't want to feel this way about Yami. He was his best friend! What am I supposed to do now?

"It's okay Yugi. Just keep acting like nothing's changed," Ryou's voice was strong and reassuring, a rock for Yugi to keep firm hold of.

"Okay," Yugi took a deep breath. The two walked to the centre of the park and up to a massive tree sitting on a hill. It's branches twisted and spread, arching into the perfect image. Sighing, Yugi placed the basket next to the trunk and looked around at the rest of the park. There was a large grassy field, a playground, pathways, sitting areas, a small lake and many trees, but none as large as the one that they had set their stuff down at. The sun was warm and bright, chasing away all of the clouds. Yugi closed his eyes and let the sun soak into his skin. Maybe everything would be all right. Who's to say that this feeling wouldn't pass? Who's to say that Yami didn't feel the same way? Maybe loving him won't be too bad. It's not like he makes it difficult.

Yugi felt and arm sling itself over his shoulder, "It's a beautiful day to be alive isn't it Angel."

Keeping his eyes closed Yugi forced his features to look calm, "Bakura. What a pleasant surprise."

"And don't you forget it," the deep sneer coursing shivers through Yugi's body.

"Now how would you know to come here if you weren't invited?" Yugi remarked innocently.

Bakura chuckled, withdrawing his arm, "That's for me to know and for you to not find out."

"That's enough Theif."

Yugi snapped his eyes open at the sound of Yami's voice. He's here. Okay, just act normal. Nothing's changed. Yugi tensed when he felt Yami come up behind him and sling his arm around Yugi's should; Just like Bakura had only a moment ago.

"Today its my turn to annoy Yugi," Yami's voice drawled, giving Yugi reason to shiver. Bakura shifted into Yugi's line of vision, a smirk plastered on his face and his rust coloured eyes glinting. If he was going to say something, he didn't get the chance.

"What are you doing here Thief?"

"Ah, Demon. I was wondering when I'd see you again. It's been so long since our last meeting."

Ryou stepped closer to the thief so that they were only a few feet apart. "It hasn't been long enough," Ryou snapped coolly.

Bakura chuckled slightly, pulling his lips up into a sneer, "I have missed these little spats."

Ryou took another step closer and lowered his voice, "Oh I bet you have," he blinked up at Bakura, eyes half-lidded, "your just one for trouble aren't you."

Bakura didn't back down, his voice lower now too, "And you would know of course little Demon."

Ryou laughed without humour, "Actually yes I would, because I know your type."

Bakura's eyes flashed at this, "My type?" now he took a step closer, they were practically nose to nose, "I assure you, I'm not like any 'type'."

Ryou lifted his index finger and placed it on Bakura's chest bone, "What," he feigned innocence, "cold heartless monster doesn't ring any bells?"

Bakura growled, "I'm not the monster here."

Ryou's eyes widened and he lowered his hand. He stepped back, pressing his lips into a firm line. "Why are you here?" his voice was emotionless and quiet.

Bakura replied with the same tone, "Because believe it or not, I enjoy your company."

The two albinos stared each other down. Eyes wandering for any sign of weakness or motive. Yugi let out a breath he didn't realise he'd been holding when they both stepped apart unscathed.

Yami shifted off of Yugi, "Well, now that we've said our 'hellos', what are we going to do?"

Yugi turned to Yami and tried to keep his expression as normal as he could. Yami looked as elegant as usual; well, as elegant as you could when wearing leather. The sunlight bounced off the buckle of his choker and beamed down onto his hair, making it look as though it were alight. Standing strong he gave off a relaxing cheery vibe, smiling calmly. His ruby eyes, however betrayed his uneasiness, they glistened with worry, flicking from Bakura to Ryou and back again. Yugi couldn't really blame him. Every time Ryou and Bakura met, it was like all hell was about to break loose. The tension between the two was chaotic and eventually seemed to subdue only to resurface the next time they saw each other. And while Yugi grew more and more comfortable around the thief he couldn't help but worry at what his presence meant for Ryou. His usually kind soul was replaced with that of a demon when Bakura was around. He displayed both a bark and a bite and what was worse was that Bakura couldn't resist it. To put it simply, Bakura was like the thorn to Ryou's rose.

Yugi sighed, what could they all do together that wouldn't end up in an all out war? He turned towards Yami only to find that his eyes were already on Yugi. Any thoughts that were beginning to form in Yugi's head fizzled out and died under Yami's gaze. Oh Ra, what am I to do? I can't even think straight around him anymore. Yugi just stood there and stared as he tried to collect some words together. Yami smiled slowly, blinking at Yugi while he did so, "Did you happen to bring any games with you?"

Now that was something Yugi could actually answer.

He skipped over to the picnic basket and opened the lid in a flourish. He grabbed the rug and moved so that he had space to lay it on the grass. Yami had followed him and now stood across from Yugi. Yugi smiled and shook out the rug so that it was at its full size, flowing in gentle waves to the ground. Yami leaned down and spread it out, holding on to each of the corners closest to him. Yugi giggled slightly, Yami looked at him and raised a brow; Yugi just shook his head and finished spreading out the picnic rug. It was a little thing really. Yami had been looking up at Yugi with such a patient and contented expression, a slight tilt of the head and an edge of a smile. The cute gesture driving Yugi wild. If little things like that was going to set Yugi off, he was pretty much doomed. Furrowing his brow, Yugi tried to stay focused on the task at hand, moving over to the basket once again. Luckily he had thought about bringing games just before he had left and therefore sitting neatly at the bottom of the basket was a small selection.

"You okay Yugi?" the baritone voice cut through the careful compartmentalisation of his thoughts, "You look like you're concentrating real hard," Yami chuckled. Yugi lowered his head, hoping that Yami wouldn't notice the colour rising in his cheeks.

"Yeah well, it's not like you guys are easy to cater for."

Yami chuckled again and then squatted down next to Yugi, "Ain't that the truth."

Yugi felt Yami's eyes following his hands as he reached into the basket and tried to bring the games out with out pulling everything out on top. Eventually, with a lot of shuffling and frustration fuelled words, he managed to pull out a chess set, Twister and a few Duel Monster decks. Before either of the boys could comment, a pale hand reached down and picked up the Twister box, "We are definitely playing this."

Yami sighed in exasperation, standing and turning on his heel, "Thief, don't you think that someone else should choose, you know, considering you weren't actually invited?"

Yugi stood up too and turned to face the thief. Bakura's face fell and he looked around uncertainly before his eyes landed on Ryou who was still standing were Yugi had left him.

"Uh, Dem-Ryou. What would you like to play?" he asked quietly. Ryou looked at him sharply, a spark of recognition in his eye. Bakura seemed to be trying to be nice, even if it physically pained him. Ryou's lips quivered slightly and he brought his arms up to hug himself tightly. He took a breath and then tried a smile. It was small and soft and genuine, "Actually, I'd like to play Twister too."

Bakura's ego seemed to return full force. He turned towards Yami and smirked, "See that Pharaoh? Demon knows what's up."

With that he opened up the box and placed the spotted mat down, twirling drunkenly as he did so. This action was enough to elicit a small giggle from Ryou. Bakura acted as though he didn't hear, but there was spark in his rust-coloured eyes that was undeniably happiness of some form. Yugi couldn't help but smile. It looked like they were both trying to turn around the situation from before.

"This is the most mature I have ever seen them both act around each other," Yami's voice whispered in Yugi's ear. Yugi nodded silently, it really was something to behold as Bakura gestured for the others to come gather round the game mat. He turned to Yugi as they approached, "As you are the humble host, and do such a good job of it, you can spin the wheel first and supervise the game." Bakura stated matter-of-factly. Yami looked like he was about to protest but Yugi held up a hand to stop him.

"Okay, but the looser has to spin and supervise next round."

Bakura smirked and gave a curt nod, "Of course," he purred. Yugi shook his head in exasperation; Bakura's train of thought was impossible to follow. He grabbed the spinner from the box and sat down on the rug to watch. The other three boys gathered around the game mat with slight apprehension, looking at each other nervously. Yugi couldn't help but let a sinister smile creep upon his features, maybe it was better being the supervisor. After all, he'd get to watch as the others made fools of themselves.

"Oh come on Yugi, waiting around is just making me jumpy," Yami winked. Yugi blushed. Bakura sneered.

"That is one of the least imaginative lines I have ever heard you come up with Pharaoh."

Yami growled, "Seriously Thief, I was just joking around, but if you really want to do this right now, what about your nicknames huh?"

"What's wrong with my nicknames?"

"Really? Because they're so imaginative," Yami stated sarcastically.

"Actually, yes they are."

"Nope."

"Yes."

"No, not at all."

"Yes they are! Give me one good reason why the-"

Ryou interrupted, "Girls, girls, you're both pretty, can we play the game now?"

Yugi burst out laughing while Ryou looked smugly between the two taller boys. They both looked shocked and disgusted at the same time, before Yami crossed his arms and smiled reluctantly. Bakura, however, had the most priceless expression. Not only did he look miffed, but he flicked his hair over his shoulder and pouted while jutting one hip out and crossing his arms over his chest.

"You're not doing yourself any favours there Theif," Yugi choked out between giggles. Bakura tilted his head in confusion. When he figured it out his eyes widened in realisation. He stood up straight and hunched his shoulders, "Let's just play the game, " he grumbled. He looks like a disgruntled kitty cat. Yugi eventually finished giggling, composing himself enough to actually spin the dial. His eyes followed the needle as it spun, watching carefully as it came to a stop.

"Yami, right hand red," he called out. Yami nodded and squatted down by the edge of the mat, placing his right hand on a red dot. Yugi spun the dial again, "Ryou, left foot blue."

Ryou did as he asked and shifted so that he stood on the correct dot.

"Bakura, right hand yellow."

No matter how hard he tried, Yugi could not have imagined how the game would have turned out. And he was glad it turned out so ridiculously priceless. His sides hurt from laughing but the others were probably in more pain. Straining to hold themselves up, all of them too stubborn to be the first to fall.

"Oh my Ra guys, you're killing me," Yugi giggled.

Legs were twisted around each other, hands were at awkward angles; it was hard to tell whose limb belonged to whom.

"We're killing you?! You're killing us!" Theif yelled, his arms and legs shaking as he held himself over Ryou whilst also being entangled with Yami. Yugi laughed again and instead of replying with some smart mouthed retort, he opted instead to spin the spinner and perhaps relieve some of their pain. 'Cause really, who could argue? Yugi was just a great friend like that.

"Right, Yami? Left foot red!" He called out. He watched as Yami swivelled his head one way and then the other trying to figure a way in which he could manoeuvre his body in a way that was physically possible. Eventually after much thought and shaking he put his weight onto his hands and untangled his leg from beneath Ryou and carefully moved it to the only free red dot.

"Okay," he grunted.

Now usually this is when Yugi would spin the spinner but his eyes were sufficiently distracted at the sight before him. Yami's leather-clad behind was in clear view, pointed right at Yugi.

"Um..." Yugi gurgled out. Honestly, did this always happen or was it only because now he was conscious of his feelings? Either way it was not doing him any good. He was sure that his face was turning a million shades of red. He tried to move his eyes away, he really did but something stopped him every time.

"Right, that's it, I'm done." Bakura grumbled and let his muscles go loose, falling and causing everyone to tumble down with him.

Thankful for the event, Yugi laughed and watched as everyone groaned and climbed out from each other, all the while trying to calm his beating heart.

"Right okay," Yugi got out between giggles, starting to get up, "does this mean that I can have a go now?"

Yami nodded, Ryou gave a soft 'yes' and Bakura stumbled up, grabbed the spinner and sat were Yugi was previously giving a short 'I suppose so.' Smiling, Yugi made his way to the mat and stood next to a still shaking Yami and Ryou. Bakura looked up at them deviously, "Are you all ready?" he sneered, everyone gave a tense nod, "Yugi, left hand blue."

Yugi decided that he both loved and hated the game Twister. Sure it was fun and kind of hilarious, but it was kind of painful when you had Bakura on the spinner. Yugi could swear that he was just picking some at random for his own kicks. But the worst and best bit was happening right now. Yami's, well, very manly chest was pressed flush against Yugi's back. Yugi couldn't help but be a little self-conscious. What would someone think if they just walked by right now? Bakura must have seen the redness of Yugi's face and was smirking. Yugi tried not to focus too hard on the warmth that was radiating off Yami and instead started counting the blades of grass that he could see. He definitely could not feel every one of Yami's muscles bunching and straining as he held himself up. And he was definitely not imagining what he could do with such well-defined muscles. Bakura's voice cut him from his ever dangering thoughts, "Yami, right hand green."

Yugi felt Yami shift above him, "Yeah no. I don't think that's going to happen."

However, his stubbornness drove him on. He lifted his hand gingerly and tried moving it towards the coloured dot even though there was no way he was going to make it. Yugi wished he had said something because then what happened next could have been avoided. Yami must of lost his footing or had just gotten too tired, but whatever it was lead to him falling. Yugi acted quickly and turned so that he wouldn't land flat on his face. His eyes widened then closed as Yami fell down on top of him with a grunt. Briefly Yugi heard Ryou hit the ground a small way away and snickering from Bakura, but his attention was mainly on the feel of Yami pressed down on his chest. Yugi couldn't have breathed if he tried. Eventually, sure that Yami had heart the rapid beating of his heart, his weight was lifted off him. But it was only barely, Yami had lifted his torso off Yugi, his hands on either side of Yugi's head. He smiled sheepishly down and Yugi, "Sorry," his voice rumbled, "I didn't mean to land on top of you." Yugi smiled dumbly back, the whole situation not really going slow enough for his brain to register properly. Maybe if he had been a bit more observant he would have seen the tinge of red washing over Yami's cheeks or how the corner of his lips were twitched up in an involuntary smile.

After a few more rounds everyone was pretty much ready for lunch.

"I think you might have killed me in that last round Demon," Bakura said, wincing as he stretched. Ryou looked at him quickly before holding up his hands defensively, 

"Hey, it wasn't my fault," he shrugged, "it was the spinner's fault. Besides," he looked at Bakura from the corner of his eye, "wasn't it your idea to play Twister anyway?"

Bakura chuckled, "Yes, but you agreed with me."

Ryou couldn't help but smile, "Fine, it's my fault," and with a quick breath and a bit more daring he leaned forward and fluttered his eyelashes at Bakura, "how ever will I make it up to you?"

This time both of Bakura's eyebrows rose, he was clearly as shocked as Yugi and Yami were to hear Ryou say that. His surprise didn't last too long though as he crossed his arms and his lips rose into a sneer, "Well funny you should ask Demon," he took a step closer to Ryou, leaning down so that their eyes were level, Yugi held his breath, where the hell was this going? 

"Will you play soccer with me after lunch?"

Ryou's face split into a wide grin, "Sadly, I'd actually love to."

Yugi turned to look at Yami, silently asking what had happened, but he just gave a small shrug,

"Hell if I know how his brain works."

Yugi let a small giggle bubble from his mouth, "Actually, I would have expected you of all people to know exactly that."

Yami's eyes glittered softly and his lips pulled back in a quiet chuckle, "To tell you the truth Yugi, I don't think that I want to know how he thinks."

Yugi nodded understandingly, yes, Bakura is an odd one. After their small exchange everyone helped with unloading the food and drinks and settled in around the rug with the food in the middle. Everyone ate, drank and talked at intervals.

"These are really good Yugi!" Yami exclaimed around a mouthful of sandwich.

"Right, I forgot about your deep, devoted love for food." Yugi teased.

Yami smiled charmingly, "Not jealous are you?"

Right. Now that there, drove Yugi's heart into overdrive. But he was actually quite proud of him self for not missing a beat.

"Only in your dreams Yami."

Yami chuckled, "Damn, you know about that do you? I thought I hid it pretty well." He joked cockily and Yugi couldn't help but push the line of his own arrogance.

"Well, I mean the way you trail behind me like a lost puppy does kind of give it away Yami." Yugi attempted a smirk.

The effect on Yami was different to what he expected, instead of a smart reply Yami's cheeks tinged pink and small smile crossed his features. He recovered quickly though and Yugi wondered if he really did see what he thought he saw. Yami raised his hands in mock surrender,

"Well, you got me Yugi. Obviously I just wear my heart on my sleeve," he blinked slowly and smiled, "I concede."

Yugi smiled triumphantly while Ryou and Bakura clapped appraisingly.

There wasn't much more conversation after that; the four boys sitting and eating in comfortable silence, content to just be in each other's company. Yugi lay back on the rug and moved his hands to behind his head in a makeshift pillow. He looked up and watched the sun shine down between the branches, revelling in the feel of it washing over his skin. There was a slight breeze and Yugi closed his eyes, feeling as though he were at a beach rather than a park. He smiled when he heard quiet arguing coming from the two albinos; some things never change. Sufficiently ignoring them, Yugi continued enjoying just lying there in the dappled shade, a contented smile present on his face.

"Right. Bakura and I are just going to go look for a soccer ball and a place to play, we'll be right back." Ryou's voice caused Yugi to jump slightly but he gave a short response to let the boy know that he heard. Footsteps heading down the side of the hill and Yugi felt Yami shift beside him. Slowing his breathing he focused on not opening his eyes. He heard a quiet grunt and guessed that Yami was lying down next to him.

"See Yugi, this is what happens when you make us get up so early in the morning," Yami's voice was amused, "We have to take naps just to survive."

"Ha ha, funny."

There was a quiet chuckle, "Thanks, I thought so too."

If his eyes were open, Yugi would have rolled them. The mood that settled between them was easy and Yugi was enjoying every second of it. He hummed happily, "Did you want to do something while we wait?"

Yami made a soft noise, "Yeah, did you have anything in mind?"

Yugi thought for a while. Truthfully, he did have something in mind but he was nervous at what the response might be considering what happened last time.

"Um, do you...do you want to play chess?" He squeaked out.

He felt Yami stiffen next to him. He carefully opened an eye to gaze over him. Yami was lying back as well but his eyes were a bit glassy and his brows were furrowed. He opened his mouth to speak and then must of thought better of it and snapped it closed. Yami took a deep breath and tried again,

"Thanks for offering Yugi... but I...I don't really want to play."

Yugi murmured a reassuring 'that's okay' and closed his eye hoping that Yami would go back to being at ease. After a few minutes Yugi tried again,

"Um Yami? If you don't mind me asking, why don't you want to play? I mean, you seem to know how and I think that you're actually rather good at it...I mean...." He trailed off and Yugi hoped that he hadn't pushed too far. Yami sighed and there was a weight to it that Yugi hadn't expected to be there.

"It's okay Yugi, it's just...." He sighed again, as if gaging wether or not he should actually tell Yugi, "I used to play chess all the time with my- well.... I used to play with someone who was very special to me, but they're gone now and so I...I don't really want to play because...well..."

Yugi cut him off, "It's okay. I get it. Thanks for telling me."

Yami hummed in response and the two just lay there in silence, neither ready to push the other any further.

Luckily Ryou and Bakura chose that moment to return, loudly interrupting the silence and forcing both the tri-coloured-hair boys to their feet. Yugi blinked a few times, the brightness taking some time to become normal.

"Right, so," he started, "what did you find?"

Ryou and Bakura were standing infront of them empty handed. Both of them had their arms crossed and Ryou was looking at Bakura reproachfully. If Bakura could look embarrassed that's what he was doing now. Now Yugi was deadly curious.

Ryou jabbed a finger at his companion, "This idiot thought that the best way to get a ball was to steal it from a child."

Both Yugi and Yami gave the thief a pointed look but he just huffed and looked away.

"He's probably lucky that the mother didn't call the cops on him but now we don't have any chance of getting them to let us borrow the ball."

When Ryou was done he ran his fingers through his hair and gave Bakura a look full of exasperation. Yami shook his head slightly and asked Ryou to point to the family that had the ball. Ryou obliged and pointed to a middle-aged mum who was standing with a young girl by the playground. Yami nodded and walked down to them. Ryou sighed and went to stand next to Yugi to watch, "What's he going to do?" he asked.

Yugi just shook his head, I have no idea.

They watched, amazed, as Yami greeted the mother politely. He said something and she laughed. He then pointed up to where they were standing and when the mother looked, Yugi waved. The mother smiled slowly then waved back. Yami said something else and the mother gestured for her child to come closer. The little girl looked shyly up at Yami, all the while clinging to her mother's leg. Yami squatted down so that he was level with the little girl. He smiled and held out his hand. Yugi smiled widely as the little girl tentatively took his had and shook it. Yami smiled at the child and said something causing the child to giggle bashfully. Yugi could feel his face heating up, Yami was getting way too cute the more he interacted with the little girl. Yami then cocked his head to the side and the girl nodded handing him the soccer ball. Yami smiled even wider and ruffled her hair. He stood up and thanked her and the mother before making his way back towards Yugi and the others. When he reached them he stood next to Bakura and beamed, "I don't know what the trouble was Thief," he mocked. Yami looked around at the four of them, "Right, so how are we going to do this?"

Bakura got over his sourness and smirked,

"How about the cool kids," at which he pointed to himself and Yami, "verses the dorks?" at which he pointed and Yugi at Ryou. Not to be deterred, Ryou crossed his arms and leaned over to Yugi, whispering loud enough for everyone to hear, 

"It's cute that he thinks he's a cool kid." Yugi and Yami snickered while Bakura raised a brow at Ryou's remark. Of course he chose to fixate on the beginning of what Ryou said,

"You think I'm cute do you?" he smirked.

Ryou seemed to be prepared, "Sure," he nodded, "like in the way a child is when you 'got their nose'."

Bakura couldn't help but smile grudgingly at that one, "Well played Demon."

Ryou started walking towards the open grassy field, "The games haven't even started yet- Thief."

Bakura watched him go, rusted eyes watching his body grow smaller. He sighed, "He's going to be the death of me." When he noticed that Yami and Yugi were watching him he growled,

"What!?"

Yugi shook his head and ran down to catch up to Ryou, leaving Yami to deal with Bakura.

When he caught up to Ryou he started helping him place some sticks as the dimensions of the goals.

"So," Ryou started, eyes flicking to Yugi and then back to the task, "how's it going with Yami?"

Yugi practically dropped the stick he was holding in surprise,

"Damn Ryou! Don't talk so loud!" he whispered desperately.

Ryou laughed softly, "Don't worry Yugi, they can't hear us from here."

Yugi looked over his shoulder and saw that Yami and Bakura were standing on the other side of the field.

"Fine," he turned back to Ryou, "everything is just fine."

Ryou finished placing the stick and brushed his hands together, "Uh huh, I saw you during Twister."

Yugi's face reddened, "So?"

"And then both of you were lying next to each other?"

"Yeah," Yugi said defensively, "we were talking, you know, like normal people do."

Ryou smiled and held up his hands, "Okay okay, let's head over and start the game."

Yugi nodded, not wishing to talk about this any more. When the two reached their doubles Yami explained how this game was going to work, 

"So this is going to be two on two and the first team to three points wins the game."

Everyone nodded in agreement. The small group headed towards the centre of the field and Yami put the ball down. Ryou went and stood in front of him while Yugi went to stand a bit behind and to the side of Ryou, Bakura doing the same behind Yami. Yami smirked and started the game. He kicked the ball to the side and Bakura ran up behind him and gained possession of the ball, dribbling down to Yugi and Ryou's side of the field. Ryou didn't let him get too far before he tackled him and started dribbling the ball back the way up the field. Yugi ran along side, ready if he needed to pass the ball. That was sooner than Yugi thought, Yami had come up behind Ryou and was about to tackle him but Ryou thought quickly and kicked it sideways to Yugi, who surprisingly, managed to keep it in his control. Before he knew it the goal was coming up and he booted it right through the middle. Ryou cheered while both Yami and Bakura groaned, but they were both smiling. Yami ran ahead and went to retrieve the ball while Yugi and the others got into position. Yami came back and kicked the ball into the field before running after it and feinting to the left to get Ryou off him. Yugi put on a burst of speed and managed to kick it free from Yami. Ryou then gained possession and dribbled it back up to the correct side. Yami looked at Yugi dangerously,

 "Excuse me?" he joked. Yugi laughed and shrugged before forcing himself to catch up to the action. Ryou and Bakura were going at it, Ryou dodging around him but Bakura not giving up the chase. He was too late however as Ryou kicked the ball right through the goal and smirked wildly at Bakura who just looked back with a hint of admiration in his eyes, before going to retrieve the ball.

Before he kicked it into the field he called out, "Yami, we can't let them get another point!"

Yami nodded, determination shining in his eyes.

Bakura kicked it in but Ryou got it straight away. Yugi had to hold his breath, this could be over quickly if Ryou just managed to get it straight into the goal. But as it came sailing towards the goal Bakura headed it and started chasing and dribbling it down the field. Yugi started running to tackle him but a strong pair of arms caught him from behind. He swung forward slight due to momentum before bouncing back against a solid chest. His arms were pinned to his sides and Yami chuckled as he held on.

"Come Yami let me go!" Yugi laughed, trying to get free.

"Nuh uh, I don't think so, you're too good at this."

Yugi squirmed again before relaxing, there's no way I can get out of this.

"I'm pretty sure this is against the rules," he grumbled.

Yami laughed again, "I'm pretty sure I never mentioned not being allowed to grab other players."

Yugi's eyes widened then narrowed, "God damn it Yami."

The two of them stood there, watching as Ryou and Bakura practically danced around each other. It really was something to watch, both of them were surprisingly good at this game, demonstrating skills Yugi didn't think that either of them had. He's thoughts were interrupted however when Yami sighed and laid his chin on Yugi's shoulder. Yugi stiffened, oh Ra, what do I do?!

Before he could freak out too much, however, Bakura scored a goal and Yami let go quickly before the others could see how he and Yugi were standing.

"Good job Theif!" Yami called out while walking up to him. Bakura gave a mock bow and smiled devilishly.

For the rest of the game Yugi was distracted, his mind whirling, body reeling, skin burning.

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The rest of the day was full of joking, playing and eating. The sun was setting and the park was emptying. The four friends had decided to stay for the sunset, lying in the grass on the hill, looking out at the city and the sky. Yugi lay next Yami and a little further down the hill Ryou lay next to Bakura. For the whole afternoon Yugi had been heightened aware of Yami's presence. Where ever he was, Yugi had an uncanny ability to know exactly his location, whether it be a few meters away or on the other side of the park. But now he tried to block that out, focusing instead on the feel of the cool grass tickling his skin. The breeze was once again present, flying over them in a slight rustle of leaves.

The sky was a palette of colours; oranges bled into reds that seeped into purples and blues. The few clouds were washed in lights, some were pink, others glowing gold. Yugi let out a breath, it was beautiful. He quickly glanced over at Yami who was smiling at the sky, entranced by the view. And Yugi's breath hitched in his throat, Yami's ruby eyes reflected the hues of the sky, merging and melding until his eyes were just as vast. His skin looked soft in this lighting, his features were less harsh and Yugi smiled. For once Yami looked totally at peace, content to just waste time and watch the sun lower.

Hoping that Yami hadn't noticed Yugi watching him, he shifted his gaze away and back to the sky. The sun was sinking lower and the inky blackness of the night melted its way into place. It wasn't long before the sun was completely gone and the horizon was no longer bright. This didn't mean that there wasn't light, however. It was a full moon and it cast more than enough light too see, and if not that, then the surrounding city. Yugi looked carefully and spotted a few stars, the others outshined by the artificial light.

He heard Yami sigh happily beside him and couldn't help but smile. Maybe it wouldn't be too bad loving Yami. But he wasn't going to tell him yet. He wanted to see how it would go first. And more than anything he didn't want to wreck their friendship. So he just lay there, next to Yami and let all his troubles wash away with breeze. He was going to enjoy this moment.

He took another quick glance at Yami; yes, I think I definitely like sunsets better.