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† otabek altin | n/a

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WHO: Yuri Plisetsky, Yuuri Katsuki, Otabek Altin
WHERE: Heropa 17; Otabek's apartment
WHEN: August, before the Swear Out
WHAT: Time for some important talks and bonding
WARNINGS: Discussion of murderers and related unpleasantries

Yuuri
[It's late in the morning after Yusuke's late night visit—the one that Yuri is praying was very stealthy and unnoticed, but likely was not. He hadn't gotten much sleep the night before. It'd been too hard to sleep soundly even with the warm comfort of Yusuke at his side, and so he's wound up sleeping in (fitfully, of course), until almost noon—long after his boyfriend snuck back out the window and to his own unit.

When Yuri finally ventures downstairs he makes a beeline for the coffee pot, rubbing the lingering sleep from his eyes. This isn't actually out of the ordinary. He relies on coffee more and more these days and usually starts his day with couple of cups of the stuff. He grumbles to himself while he sets a new pot up to brew and opens the fridge to frown at the contents while he waits for it to finish. A few beats pass, and he calls out to whoever happens to be in the living room when he can't find what he wants.]

Oi! Are we out of cream?

Otabek
[It's a different day, but still late in the morning. Yuri had breakfast and his morning chores and training regimen to complete before he made the trip across town to Otabek's apartment. He's not entirely sure what the other boy wants to talk about. In fact, he's a little nervous about it since it was apparently too important to chat about over a text. But, he thinks to himself, maybe it's a surprise date? Yuri was still learning and getting used to all of Otabek's quirks and tendencies, but he thought it sounded like something he might do. Maybe.

At the very least he's sure it can't be anything too bad. There wasn't any reason to think it might be, so he swallows down his nerves and tries to look as relaxed as he can when he rings Otabek's doorbell.]

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[Otabek was definitely the kind of guy to surprise one of his boyfriends with an impromptu date, but right now, he needed to talk to Yuri about something important. That he was concerned the blond would be upset over. He wouldn't blame him if he were, but he was hoping they could talk about it and decide what to do to move forward.

He opens the door to let Yuri in and after he shuts it, he leans in for a kiss.]

Good morning, Yura.

[Taking his hand, he leads him towards his bedroom, where they can have some privacy.]

I want to talk about Adachi.

[He didn't see the point in prolonging the discussion or waiting.]

Morning, Beka.

[Yuri had relaxed as soon as Otabek greeted him with that kiss, rewarding the older boy with a warm smile. There can't be anything wrong when he gives him such a warm welcome, right? It's a thought he holds onto until they get to Otabek's room and he finds out why he's actually here.

His entire mood changes in that moment. His posture tenses and closes off—as much as he can close it off while Otabek still has his hand, anyway. The smile drops away and is replaced with an irritated look that is definitely Yuri's failed attempt at looking unaffected. Even his tone of voice is icier and clipped.

He doesn't want to talk about Adachi. Conversations about the man never seem to go in his favor. Yuri's still confident that his distrust is justified, but he's just as confident that he's the only one who really seems to think so. And, more than that, he's tired of having to explain himself or to have to listen to people tell him he's being too stubborn about everything. He'd love to think that's not what Otabek wants to talk about now, but he'd thought the same thing about Viktor not long ago and that certainly hadn't gone the way he hoped either.]

What about him?

[Otabek shuts the bedroom door, sitting on the edge of the bed with his hands in his lap. He doesn't enjoy the quick change in Yuri's mood, the stiffness and clipped tone. It's something he imagines neither of them really want to talk about, but Otabek can't let it sit.]

Honesty is important to me. Even more so now that we're dating.

[He shifts on the bed to face him, brows knit together, but his voice is soft, imploring.]

When I first met Adachi, it was at the ice rink. I offered to help him learn to skate, because he was doing it to express himself. His emotions. [Otabek could understand that. It was where it was easiest for him to show how he felt.] I forgot about it, until recently. When I saw him again at the rink.

If you tell me now that you feel the same as you did about him before. That you still don't trust him, I'm going to find someone else to teach him. It's been long enough that any initial arguments and discoveries have had time to settle. Do you feel the same, Yura?

[He leans in, trying to gauge Yuri's reactions.]

You come first, you have to know that.

[The stiff, frustrated anger on Yuri's face only builds while he listens to Otabek explain what he's been up to with Adachi. For a few tense moments it looks like he might snap at him—or maybe storm out all together. Even Yuri isn't entirely sure of what he might do. He seldom is until it's already happened.

But Otabek keeps talking; doesn't give him that chance to act before he has a chance to think about what he's actually doing. Yuri still isn't sure how to react. His brows stay knit together, mouth twisted in a frown that's more confused now than it is upset. He starts once or twice to say something, but his words fade out in sounds of bewilderment. A moment ago he'd been so sure he'd have to defend himself. He really doesn't know what to do in the face of someone putting control over the situation so firmly in his hands.

Finally, he drags his fingers through his hair, looks at the floor and back up at Otabek, and manages to stammer out a response like he still expects to need to argue about it.]

I— Yeah. I mean, of course I feel the same. He fucking killed two people, Beka. And he lied about it for months.

[Otabek understands that emotions are not the same to each person. There are a multitude of factors that resulted in Yuri feeling the way he does that he can't possibly know or perceive fairly. Him and Adachi have had experiences that built and played off one another until Yuri got to the point that he is today - he still doesn't trust him. That's all he'd needed to know.

When he'd met Adachi, he'd asked him to promise to try and make things right. Otabek doesn't feel that Adachi truly put effort into it or Yuri would not still be so convinced - that doesn't mean that he can't still, but he hasn't yet. At some point in a disagreement, someone has to give a little, and whether Adachi thinks so or not, it should have been him. He was the one who has the sordid past, who lied, and has hurt people because of it. If he wanted to rid himself of that history and be a better man, he had to do what was hard.]

Then I'll find someone else to take over.

[He puts his hand on the bed, palm up. Otabek doesn't enjoy conflict, he'd known coming in that it might happen, but a true friend and a good boyfriend supports their partner in all things.]

We don't have to talk about him again, unless that's what you want.

[Yuri takes a deep breath, nods, and finally sits beside Otabek on the bed. The tension that'd been spread through him, tightening across his shoulders and pinching at his expression, begins to ease away. He lets out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. It really is just an overwhelming sense of relief to realize Otabek isn't going to argue with him about this. He's just accepting it. It's exactly what Yuri's wanted from someone this whole time, and now that he's gotten it he's...honestly a little overwhelmed.

He rubs at his face with one hand and then sets that hand in Otabek's upturned one, nodding wordlessly at first. He needs these extra seconds to compose himself and to decide just what the flood of feelings he's having actually means.]

It's... [He trails off, already abandoning whatever line of thinking that was.]

...Thanks, Beka. I... It means a lot to me. [Yuri squeezes his hand.] We can still talk about him as long as you aren't just telling me to get over it.

[Otabek links their fingers, sitting quietly as Yuri figures out what he wants to say. He's curious about what Yuri was going to say, but whatever it might be, if it was important he'd tell him when he was ready.]

Of course, Yura.

[Frowning, he glances down at their hands then back up again.]

I wouldn't tell you to get over it. I'd be telling you that how you feel doesn't matter and that isn't okay. Yes, I wish the two of you weren't fighting, but that's simply because it makes you unhappy.

[At the core of it, Otabek didn't want them at odds with one another, because it seemed like a miserable state for anyone to be in.]

Why don't you tell me what you want me to hear for now?

[Yuri almost can't handle how well Otabek is dealing with this. Every word is like a soothing balm on his well worn nerves. He takes a shaky breath and leans over against Otabek, laying his head on the other boy's shoulder.]

I'm fucking tired of fighting, Beka. I can't even say I don't want to be around him without him getting pissed at me for it.

[Otabek wraps his arm around him, holding him close, fingers dancing a slow line up and down his bicep.]

He'll have to understand that you don't want to see him right now. It's not unreasonable to ask for space. [Not after everything they've been through.] Trying to force either of you into something that you aren't ready for, will just end in disaster.

[His pauses, then resumes moving his hand almost immediately.]

You know that you can come here whenever you need to, right? You and Yusuke both. You don't even have to ask first.

I wish everyone else would figure that out.

[He sighs and closes his eyes, trying to focus on the comforting feel of Otabek's hand on his arm. It's really more soothing than he'd have expected it to be. Who knew physical comfort was so...comforting?]

Mm... I kind of knew that. [He'd have come over unannounced sooner or later whether he got the invite or not.] But I like hearing you say it.

They will. There are a lot of people involved and with that comes a lot of emotion.

[Not to mention that some of those involved had quick tempers or were very reactionary. It didn't make for a calm discussion with that much passion in one place.]

I want to be here for you when you need me.

[He could, now. He was so close. If he worked on his superpower, distance wouldn't even matter. His fingers press more firmly, massaging as much as stroking.]

[Yuri opens his eyes again and tilts his head to glance up at Otabek. He doesn't smile, but his expression is still a far sight better than the sour, defensive scowl he'd been wearing at the beginning of the conversation. Between the reassurance and caring in Otabek's words and the more tangible, present comfort in the hand on his arm, Yuri's relaxing like a lazy cat, pressing comfortably against Otabek's side.]

You're here now. You called me over to be here before I even asked for it.

[The conversation hadn't been the easiest, not to bring up or he'd imagine, to hear. Otabek had understood that going in it could have ended horribly, but all in all, it hadn't been so bad. Yuri had let him explain himself and then they'd both listened and responded accordingly.]

I didn't want you to think I was being dishonest by not bringing it up.

[He runs his fingers through the ends of Yuri's hair, gently playing with the soft strands.]

Can we talk about something else, as well? Yusuke.

[He frowns slightly, more uncertain about where this line of questioning might go than anything else.]

Yeah...sure. What about him? You like him...don't you?

I like him a lot.

[Otabek smiles to himself, soft and indulgent.]

When we first met, I thought he was kind, but then I was jealous of him. Now that we've gotten to know each other I.. [He pulls Yuri a little closer.] I get that dancing feeling in my stomach now, the way I do with you.

[The look of concern fades into something much more fond, and he settles his own hand over Otabek's.]

Yeah... For me, it's like I feel lighter when I'm around both of you. There's some difference, but it's... It's really similar.

[It wasn't the same, it couldn't be. They were all very different. Yuri and Yusuke gave Otabek butterflies, that nervous energy that wanted to blossom into something new and amazing. He'd experienced it first with Yuri, now Yusuke. It's what helped convince him that all three of them together could work.]

He's sweet. [He pauses, mouth curving, teasing and fond.] And you are my котенок.

[He laughs softly, a rare sound from Yuri. Though, maybe not so rare around Otabek. The older skater had a way of inspiring some of the most unexpected feelings in him.]

Just for you. [A few moments pass, and Yuri tilts his head to peer up at him with a thoughtful look.] I need a nickname for you too. Maybe Бунтарь.

[Otabek leans in, close, content to watch the expressions pass on Yuri's face. Just for you. He liked the way that sounded. Yura would be his котенок.]

Бунтарь? That makes me sound much tougher than I am.

[But, when he considered it, he couldn't find anything about it that he didn't like.]

Then it's settled. Бунтарь и котенок.

I think it suits you.

[It seemed like the perfect fit as far as Yuri was concerned. Otabek was so different from anyone else he'd ever met. Determined to be himself rather than adapting to suit whatever the audience or people around him might demand. It was what drew Yuri to him so strongly.

He leans up then, pressing a kiss to Otabek's jaw.]

I like the way they sound together.

[Otabek huffs. He liked the endearment, more so because Yuri gave it to him.]

I like us together.

[Ah, another corny line that slips out entirely on purpose. Otabek tilts his head down, lips slightly puckered.]

You missed, Yura. Your aim is off today.

[Yuri rolls his eyes, but a fond smile plays across his mouth, and he leans in to press a chaste kiss to Otabek's lips. He only barely pulls back a moment later, still close enough for their lips to brush when he speaks.]

Better?

[Otabek's eyes light up and he hums noncommittally, leaning in to steal another kiss. Then one more.]

There. Now I'm satisfied.

[He leans away, though. Otabek is acutely aware of how easy it is to respond exuberantly to Yuri's kisses. Their conversation had been serious and he doesn't want to make it odd by going from that to pressing Yuri to the bed.]

[When Otabek leans away again Yuri pouts, but only for a moment. He's not sure why—because, honestly, he's terrible at examining his own feelings without a lot of guidance—but the gesture leaves him feeling at ease.

He squeezes Otabek's hand fondly.]

Will you tell me how it goes? When you tell Adachi to find someone else.

[Otabek lifts their joined hands, kissing the tops of his knuckles then settles them on top of his thigh. His brow furrows lightly.]

I will. I'm not sure how I'll start, but Yuuri was already helping him.

[He would just suggest that Katsudon take over completely.]

Ugh... [He doesn't really like the idea of Yuuri teaching Adachi either, but that's not a conversation to have with Otabek. He'll wait to talk to the other skater at home.]

I mean—thanks. I...appreciate it.

It's nothing, Yura.

[Otabek can tell that Yuri isn't pleased with that news either, but it's between him and Katsudon. He taps the top of the younger skater's hand.]

What are you doing today?

It's something to me.

[Yuri glances up at Otabek again and shrugs after a moment. He really hadn't made any other plans for the day. Normally he might go to the park to train or work out, or he might pay a visit to a local dance studio to get choreography ideas, but Otabek's invitation had derailed that.]

Nothing, really. I didn't know what I was coming over here for, so I didn't make any other plans.

[Otabek was his own person, through and through. He made decisions after having thought them out and didn't let peer pressure sway him. But he listened to the opinions of others and let them influence his choices. When it came to Adachi, he knew that he had to pick a path and he wanted to support Yuri in any way that he could. It wasn't an easy decision, he didn't know how Adachi would respond, but it meant something to Yuri and that's how he knew this was the right call.]

Would you like to go with me to pick out a pet?

[He'd considered it long enough, it was time.]

[Yuri lights up just at the mention of pet shopping. Even if he can't get another one of his own, who doesn't like getting to play with animals while someone picks one out?]

Sure! What kind of pet are you looking for?

A cat or dog. I haven't decided.

[He's never had a preference for one over the other, he just wanted something that connected with him.]

Whichever animal chooses me, if that makes sense?

That makes sense... You want to pick something that you'll have a good bond with, right?

[It was a pretty good approach to take, now that Yuri was thinking it over. Better to pick an animal that seemed to like him already.]

We could visit one of the local shelters.

That's right. Something that chooses me as much as I choose them.

[It would spare him having an animal in the house that didn't like him and that could have a better home with someone else.]

I'd like that.

So, do you want to go now?

[He sits up just enough to give Otabek a curious look.]

We should plan to stop at a pet store too. You'll need to get some supplies once you know what kind of animal you're getting.

We can go now.

[Otabek had no other plans for the rest of the day and if he could spend some of it with Yuri, then that's a gift he won't take for granted. He pushes himself up, straightening his clothes.]

The sooner a choice is made, the faster I can get it back to settle it in.

[Yuri leans up lightning quick to press another kiss to Otabek's cheek before he's out of reach, and only then does he stand up with him, trying to look as casual as he can.]

We'd better go quick then before all the cutest ones get snapped up.

[He smiles at the quick kiss, head ducked down so that Yuri can't see it. Otabek enjoys the affection and that Yuri offers it to him, even if it's fast.]

The right one will be there. I know it.

[Otabek tucks his phone into his pocket and steps towards the door, waiting for Yuri before going out into the hallway.]

[Yuri follows him out and reaches for his hand almost automatically. It's just...nice to have that little bit of contact.]

Maybe you'll even be lucky enough to have a couple of favorites to pick between.

[Or just take home more than one. Either option sounded good to him.]

[ For the most part, Yuuri hasn't slipped from his normal routine of dragging himself out of bed at an ungodly hour to go running. After all, it's the only stable thing he'd had since coming here, and while he's only visited the local rink once or twice, there's still something about clinging to home that he can't let go of. So, maybe it's a little surprising that he's been the only one up and about so frequently, and it's quickly led to a lot of boredom despite trying to keep himself busy. He could walk Makkachin, but she only has so much energy too. Of course, he skips out on most of social media these days; he never knows what he's going to see, and somehow, it feels worse than anything anyone could have said back home.

It makes him anxious, and he's sprawled out on the sofa with an arm thrown over his face in an attempt to squash the feeling when he hears someone coming down the steps and wandering into the kitchen. He sits up enough to peek over the back of the couch, though it doesn't really help much to see into the other room. ]

I can go get some if you want. [ He speaks up loud enough for Yuri to hear him, and honestly, he's almost grateful for the chance to do something else besides laze about. There is a pause though, and he gets up to walk into the kitchen. Finally. He looks a bit rumpled despite having been awake for hours already. ] Ah... good morning.

[Yuri stares dumbly at him for a few long beats, debating between how much he wants cream and how long he's actually willing to wait for his coffee. In the end it's his need for caffeine that wins out, and he shakes his head while he stifles a yawn.]

Never mind. I'll drink it black. [Another beat passes.] But you should get some later today.

[Finally, he actually looks at Yuuri and takes in his rumpled appearance, frowning in groggy confusion.]

Did you just get up...? I thought you were a morning person.

[ Oh no. He looks so cute like this, and Yuuri has to control himself not to wrap him in a hug and squeeze him. Maybe some of Viktor's behavior is finally starting to rub off on him... Instead, he just shakes his head, scratching gently at his cheek as if he really has to think about that one. ]

Well... Viktor's more of a morning person than I am, but I've been up for a while already. [ He's just been lazy about finding something else to do after running. Yuuri hesitates then, still unsure as to where he stands with Yurio. Especially after some of the brief conversations they've had. ] Did you, um, have a late night?

I was up late talking with Yusuke. [He frowns blearily at his coffee mug for a moment and turns to fill it before he continues. He...may have forgotten that he hadn't poured anything yet.] ...On the phone. [Super believable. He hopes.]

I'm up late most nights anyway. There's always something interesting going on. [Or alarming. Or else he'd be kept up by his own thoughts or nightmares, but that was information better saved for another time—like never.]

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