[1] Viktor's Apartment

[viktornikiforov]

A soft sigh left his lips as he set their bags down in his apartment in Russia. Everything was as he asked his maid to leave it, dust covers on couches, bed, and tables. It felt weird to come in without his fluffy brown friend jumping on him and licking his face when he entered. He flicked on the lights and moved to the side so Yuuri could come in. "Make yourself at home, I just need to remove the dust covers."

Viktor bit his lips as he waited for the other to situate himself in his home. It felt weird since their last competition. The sensation of the other's lips against his while the whole world watched was still there.

Prior to this, they fooled around a few times but it was always nothing serious. It was only a few kisses here and a few cuddling sessions there. But it was always really brief and they never spoke about it. Unfortunately for Viktor, he became more and more attached to him each time. The logical part of him wanted to stop since it had an impact on his coaching, but the emotional side of him wanted to make him his own.

Snapping back to reality, he shook his head a little and opened his mouth to say something but stopped. This was too soon. They just got here. He should at least give the younger boy a chance to settle in and rest. It wasn't like Yuri got much rest from being stressed out. "If you want to take a bath, let me set it up for you. It's nothing like the hot springs you have at home. But it's still hot so you can relax your muscles"

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[saenda]

Yuuri shyly made his way inside Viktor's appartment. For a brief moment, he wondered if it was ok - he was, after all, about to enter the home of his childhood idol. This should have never been in reach, just as Yuuri would never have imagined Viktor to be his coach in a million years.

But the moment was gone as soon as it came and only awe replaced any reluctance he might have left.

This was where Viktor lived. This was what his home looked like. And even if it was covered with dust covers, even if it hadn't been used in at least a year, there was still a lingering smell that was indeniably Viktor. And somehow, despite being empty for so long, it still felt somehwat homey and Yuuri felt himself ease up immediately.

(He didn't think about the fact that he had changed so much, because him easing up in Viktor's appartment would never have happened in the beginning that they came to know each other.

Yuuri set his bag down, realising just now with slight embarrassment that he'd been standing there gaping, before he removed his shoes. He listened to Viktor inviting him in and looked up at the latter to nod, only to watch Viktor open his mouth a second time, obviously wanting to say something, but giving up instead.

Yuuri watched the movement of those lucious lips, his eyes glued to them, and he was taken back to China, where Viktor kissed him in front of everyone. It took all of Yuuri's effort not to blush as he wondered when they would talk about it, because it obviously meant something to the both of them. Unfortunately, they hadn't had the time since the competition, what with Yuuri having collapsed right after, and then having to hurry for the plane and everything.

Yuuri kind of wished they could talk about it now, but maybe it wasn't appropriate.

He started when Viktor offered him a bath, but Yuuri shook his head.

"No, it's okay, I can wait. If you'll let me, I'd rather help you with everything so that you can relax too," he answered, motioning to the dust covers and everything that would need taking care of in the appartment to make it liveable again.

[viktornikiforov]

IIt was so like Yuuri to be so accommodating. There was honestly no bad bone in his body and that was one of the things he cherished about this boy. Viktor nodded and shut the front door behind him before he started to lift up the dust covers carefully, making sure not to get any of it on the ground.

"If you're hungry, we have to order in since there is nothing here. Or if you want to go out, we can do that too. It's my turn to show you my hometown" he beamed at him honestly a bit excited. Japanese food was great but there is nothing better than the food of your home country.

With their efforts combined, it didn't take much longer for them to tidy up. It was hard to suppress his chuckles while he watched the boy pause and stand there. What was on his mind?

He walked over to drape himself over his shoulders and rested his cheek against his head. It smelled of laundry detergent for Katsuki Hot Spring and a hint of cologne hit him. Yes. He loved this scent. Without realizing, he pulled him closer to himself. "Do you feel at home now?"

[saenda]

Yuuri immediately started to help out the moment Viktor began removing the dust covers. He was careful with them as well, making sure not to make a mess of the appartment. He took the time to explore the place, surprised at how big it was. Back in Japan, most of the appartments were half the size of this, and it was considered normal. It was a wonder what they did with all this space.

Since it was teamwork, it was done in half the time it would have taken Viktor on his own and the place looked mostly presentable quickly. Yuuri took it all in, impressed and already feeling at home. Even if it was in a different country, even if it was rather big, even if it wasn't his; it screamed Viktor all over the place, and it was enough.

Yuuri started when he felt a weight on him, but eased immediately as Viktor's head rested above his. He settled his back against Viktor's, relishing in the comfortable warmth the other emanated.

"Yeah," he answered softly, looking up to smile at Viktor. "It's perfect."

He wanted to say something else, but his stomach growled loudly and Yuuri hid his face in his hands in embarrassment, his cheeks completely red.

"Maybe going out to eat wouldn't be a bad idea," he mumbled between his fingers.

Although he was excited to see Viktor's hometown. He wanted to learn everything about his coach, wanted to visit everyplace he treasured, wanted to eat his favourite food!

God Yuuri was a hopeless case!

[viktornikiforov]

There were many women in his life that came and went. None of them were ever able to make a mess of him the way Yuuri did. Mindless, the boy only did it with his words. His face flushed as deep red as he pulled him closer. The words 'it's perfect' in referencing his question about feeling at home made him excruciatingly happy. He was also grateful that the other couldn't see his face since it was embarrassing. The well known womanizer Viktor Nikiforov, brought down by two simple words.

However that moment didn't last long. It was interrupted with a rather loud growl that he couldn't decipher if it was his own stomach or Yuuri's. Regardless, they both had to eat. He chuckled and loosened his grip. "Lets go eat then, Yuuri." but didn't let go. "We unfortunately don't have Katsu Don here." another chuckle left his lips but it was lower. "Lets consider your silver medal a small win and I'll take you for amazing vodka."

[saenda]

Yuuri appreciated how Viktor didn't let him go just yet even if he'd mentionned going out. It made him feel... safe, loved. He wanted to stay in Viktor's arms indefinately, never wanted Viktor to let go.

But alas, he was hungry, and Viktor mentioned no Katsudon, and Yuuri gasped in teasing, turning around in Viktor's embrace to look at his face with mock horror.

"No Katsudon?" he asked, fighting with himself not to grin, but failing miserably. "That's it, my life is over. It was good knowing you!" he added, faigning a faint, the back of his hand on his forehead in a dramatic gesture.

[viktornikiforov]

Yuuri turning around was not something he expected. So when they came face to face, he almost found himself leaning in for another kiss. He wanted him again. He wanted to feel him against his lips. He wanted to feel their bodies close.

Just as he was about to lean in, the other leaned back. Instinctively, he tightened his grip so the other wouldn't fall.

Rats. He was so close.

Another chuckle escaped his lips before he pulled him back close to himself. "You had the chance after you competition, but you were so tired and slept until we had to leave. That's your fault." he tapped him on the nose before backing off. "Let me grab my wallet and we'll leave."

[saenda]

In a moment of boldness, as Viktor pulled Yuuri close to him once again, Yuuri leaned his head against Viktor's chest. Of course, his heart was beating wildly in his chest and he couldn't help but wonder when it would be ripped out and flee from the scene.

"I was so nervous I couldn't sleep at all! Not my fault I was so tired!" he pouted playfully, trying to mask the nervousness he felt at his bold move, chin now on Viktor's chest as he lookedd up.

He wanted to stay there, he wanted another kiss... but Viktor tapped him on the nose and pulled away, because of course they had to leave if they wanted to eat. Yuuri chuckled in embarrassment, rubbing the back of his neck.

"All right, I'll wait. Not as if I'd have any idea where to go anyway," he teased.

[viktornikiforov]

Since it was most likely freezing outside, he threw on a thicker jacket and walked out with an extra just in case Yuuri didn't pack correctly. Japan could get cold, but there was nothing like the cold winds in Russia. They were brutal and sometimes it just hurt being outside. "Here, wear this if you have nothing thick. It's going to be very cold outside."

He smiled a little back at him. The place he had in mind was somewhere he wanted to take someone special for a while. Since he was a kid, his parents would tell him of their many dates to White Rabbit. It sounded magical and romantic. Viktor, himself, had never stepped in. He deemed it a place he would never visit until he found that special someone. For him, it was a special place. Was he jumping the gun here in asking Yuuri to come to him?

Well...if it didn't end well then... Fuck White Rabbit. He'll find another place. Nodding to himself, he went to open the door for Yuuri. "It'll be my treat."

[saenda]

It had been rather cold just when they'd stepped outside the airport to get to a taxi, and then from the taxi to the appartment, even if it was only a short distance. Yuuri did have thick close, but he didn't think it would be enough for the biting cold waiting outside.

So when Viktor brought him a coat, Yuuri told himself that it were for those very reasons that he accepted it - it certainly wasn't for the fact that he was secretly pleased to be able to wear something of Viktor's.

He certainly didn't try to discreetly smell the coat before he wore it. And it surely didn't feel much more comforting and safe than what Yuuri would have worn from his clothes.

"Thank you," Yuuri said softly for the coat.

He hadn't paid attention to the other's words because it took almost a minute for him to register them.

"Wait, huh? No! No, Viktor, you don't have to!" he said, cheeks going red.

[viktornikiforov]

The Japanese were so funny sometimes. Anytime someone offered to do something nice for them, they would frantically refuse even if it was something they wanted. Yuuri was a huge offender of this. He laughed and went to pat him gently on the shoulder. "It's okay, I want to take you out since you've been working so hard." His voice was oddly calm, not like his playful self. But that didn't last long.

"Lets go!" His voice perked up. A big grin appeared across his face. "I think you'll enjoy this place. It has a nice atmosphere from what I hear."

[saenda]

The blush on Yuuri's cheeks only flared up, if possible, at the seriousness in Viktor's voice. Of course, deep deep inside, he was secretly pleased, but still, he couldn't help the guilt. Viktor didn't have to go all of his way to treat Yuuri. Sure, Yuuri did work hard, but that was his job, and it was also in thanks of what Viktor already did for him. So no need to treat him to food!

But before Yuuri could even protest a second time, there was a huge grin on Viktor's face and Yuuri just couldn't bring himself to bring it down by being a spoilsport.

And so he hid his face in his hands and nodded, ready to follow Viktor outside to whatever place he wanted to bring him to. Here's to hoping it wasn't too expensive.

[viktornikiforov]

Viktor held Yuuri's hand as he rushed around to show him some of the places he'd drink coffee, places he'd have a quick lunch, places he'd shop at. There was just so much he wanted the other to know about his own life. It was odd, but the sensation of being this excited was so unfamiliar to him.

"I really like the coffee there. We should go grab breakfast there tomorrow morning." he beamed back at him. He paused a little to slow down for him, wondering if he was going to fast. "Am I going to fast for you?" speaking his mind.

They were close and now he was getting oddly nervous.

[saenda]

Yuuri followed around, taking in every little detail Viktor shared with him, absorbing all the memories shared, the places Viktor used to go to... It was dizzying, but in a good way. Up until now, Yuuri hadn't known a lot about Viktor, and this sudden share of memories was just too precious to let go.

It was also heartwarming how Viktor was obviously so excited about it. In Japan, he hadn't shared a lot, probably wouldn't have wanted to particularly. Yuuri never got to ask either and he wondered if Viktor would have answered if he'd asked. Probably.

But the fact that Viktor was telling him all this without being prompted to... Yuuri definitely was in love!

The thought made him pause, at the very same moment Viktor stopped in front of the coffee shop. He was a little out of breath, but he hadn't realised, dazed by the sudden thought as well as the proximity between the both of them.

He was in love with this man. He'd known, of course he'd known. He'd known even before that kiss in the rink. But this, this was a certainty, and he wanted Viktor like nothing he'd ever wanted before.

And so, instead of answering Viktor's question, he closed the distance abruptly and kissed Viktor, both of his hands cupping Viktor's face.

[viktornikiforov]

From the moment he met Yuuri to now, the person in front of him was completely different. The Yuuri from the first night he met him was someone who was shy, not confident, and just someone who was afraid of any amount of proximity between them. This Yuuri was assertive and not afraid to pull him close. Heh, this man was full of surprises and he loved every bit of it.

His hands rested gently on his waist, tugging him closer in a possessive manner. He wanted Yuuri to be his and his only.

Viktor found himself deepening the kiss between them. Each time their tongue grazed against each other, the animalistic instinct in him wanted to just push him against a wall and let things happen on their own but they were not in closed corridors.

Once he pulled back, he looked at him with a warm smile. His cheeks were definitely flushed from the blood going to his face. "моя любовь" he whispered lowly before kissing his forehead. It was embarrassing to use those words but at least Yuuri didn't know Russian at all. So at least it wasn't too embarrassing.

[saenda]

His heart was beating like crazy, he could feel it in his ears, but he couldn't care less, finding himself needing this, wanting Viktor to deepen the kiss, wanting him to hold him close, closer. There was a fire in the pit of his stomach, strong, powerful, demanding, begging for Viktor, for his whole being.

And Yuuri didn't understand it completely, had never felt anything like it before. It was overpowering and he wondered briefly if it could get out of control, but then Viktor was pulling back and Yuuri whined at the loss, even if Viktor was still mere inches away. But still, it was almost too much and Yuuri almost chased after Viktor for another kiss. Almost.

He was in a daze, his lips swollen from all the kissing, his glasses a little crooked. Yuuri licked his lips, gaze fixed on Viktor's face, until his brain finally registered that he hadn't understood the words Viktor had just uttered.

"H-huh? What?" he barely had the time to ask before his heart exploded at the kiss he received on the forehead.

Yuuri melted. He literally melted. He let his head fall on Viktor's chest, grabbing it tightly with his fists so that he could hide better.

"I love you," he mumbled.

[viktornikiforov]

Wait, did he understand Russian!? Actually no, did Yuuri just say he loved him?! Did he hear correctly?! They've been together as student and coach for many months now and the closet thing they've come to expressing their feeling towards each other was always right before his performance where Yuuri asked him to keep only his eyes on him. But even then, the words "like" or "love" were never used.

His body grew numb for a second before the heat rushed everywhere. Viktor's arms wrapped around the smaller boy and pulled him close into himself. If he could stop the world right now, he would. Yuuri was someone he wanted to protect. He wanted to keep this boy in a safe place and only wanted to see him flourish into the man he saw him to be.

"And I you." he said, not really knowing what else he should continue with. He was always someone knew flashy pick up lines, but this was way more intimate.

[saenda]

Yuuri was pretty certain he was red everywhere on his body, somewhat shocked over the fact that Viktor reciprocated his feelings. Of course, he shouldn't be surprised at all, it had been somewhat clear back in China, but still... Yuuri always had been great to doubt himself and whatever good things could happen to him.

He chuckled a little out of nervousness, as well as a bit fondly considering how Viktor, flashy, flirtatious Viktor, seemed to lack words. It was a good feeling to know he'd rendered the outgoing Russian almost speechless. It was another side of Viktor Yuuri was coming to know and he absolutely loved it.

A shiver ran through Yuuri, despite being in Viktor's warm embrace and being hot all over from the blush. Winter really was terribly cold in Russia.

"Maybe we should head to the restaurant now?" he asked timidly, head still burrowed in Viktor's chest.

[viktornikiforov]

"Oh right, I'm sorry." he chuckled quietly against his hair but didn't move just yet. It was so nice to share his warmth with the other even if it was just so subtle. His scent was so intoxicating that all he wanted to do was take him home and make him smell like himself. But he had to push that thought aside. Viktor had to remind himself to go slow.

"Lets go, but before that..." he pulled back ever so slightly and lifted Yuuri's chin with his index finger before leaning down to give him a gentle kiss on his lip. This time, he lingered. His free arm pulled the other close to him by the waist. For a man, Yuuri was definitely much smaller and slender but it was not to be confused being frail. This man in front of him was so strong and had a remarkable endurance.

Once he pulled back, he gave him a small smile. "We can go now."

[saenda]

The kiss was so gentle Yuuri almost melted right on the spot, his body trembling from the sheer desire, his heart exploding in his chest. God Yuuri thought he couldn't fall harder for this man but Viktor always proved him wrong whenever he did something!

He whined a little when Viktor pulled away, both from his lips and from the embrace. Yuuri had his eyes closed and left them close a little while more, not ready to let the magic go away, but he had to realise that he was getting much colder and he also had been the one to suggest that they get going.

He made sure that Viktor's hand was in his before he nodded and followed Viktor to whatever place he wanted to take him.

[viktornikiforov]

Viktor held his hand firmly in his own. He started at the restaurant once again, still pointing out some of the places he liked to go. "I want to take you to St. Petersburg before we leave Russia, Yuuri." he started, "Remember on the beach, after the first time we got into a small tiff? I told you that I used to wake up to the sound of seagulls and it reminded me of home?" holding his hand a little tighter. "I want to show you that place."

Once they were at the restaurant, he quickly covered Yuuri's eyes so he didn't see the windows just yet. "Just stay like this for a little, I want this to be a surprise for you." he whispered against his ear. When the hostess came to greet him, he asked for a window seat.

Carefully, he maneuvered the boy to where they were being seated. When they were close enough, he pulled his hands back so that Yuuri could see all of Moscow, lit up at night. "This is my home country, Yuuri."

[saenda]

"I'd really like to see it too," Yuuri answered honestly, glad that Viktor was so willing to show him so many places of his past.

He got to learn so many things and it was a blessing. Yuuri wanted to know everything. "I can't wait to see it," he added. "It sounds wonderful!"

He started when they arrived near the restaurant and Viktor covered his eyes. He hadn't expected it in the least and he was desorientated for a moment. But he found soon enough that, unlike before, it didn't unsettle him. He trusted Viktor too much to be uncomfortable by the latter's actions.

So he went along with it, kinda enjoying the waiting for such a surprise. He did his best not to stumble anywhere as Viktor guided him, considering how clumsy Yuuri was. But Viktor did a great job and Yuuri got to their seat safe and sound.

When he was freed, he opened his eyes - he'd closed them not to cheat - and was left speechless by the view the windows had to offer. Immediately, he reached for the glass and looked down in awe at the breathtaking scene displayed before him.

"Viktor, this is beautiful!" he breathed, unable to tear his eyes away.

[viktornikiforov]

A part of him was so happy to see that Yuuri thought his home country was beautiful. He closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around his shoulder. Viktor planted his chin against the other's face before whispering in his ear, "Do you like it here?"

The music behind them was quiet and he could already hear the murmurs in Russian about his presence. But for once, he didn't care about the people talking out loud about him. Yuuri was here and that was all the mattered right now. "We can walk around a little later so you can see the city. There are many night markets that are open. But it'll be a little chilly."

[saenda]

"Yes, it looks great!" Yuuri answered, eyes still glued to the city below, unable to tear them away from the scenery.

He hummed excitedly as Viktor offered going to the night markets after they'd eaten, knowing that braving the cold would be worth it. Yuuri wanted to visit Viktor's country as much as possible and see its every facets.

He finally turned around to take in the restaurant itself, but stopped dead when he finally got to see how it looked.

It was breathtaking of course, definitely grandiose. The lights, even if softened, were colourful, the seats looked plushed and comfortable, the decorations were magnificient works of art... That's when Yuuri started to panic a little.

"O-oh my God Viktor..." he stammered, taking a hold of Viktor's coat in his hand for support. "T-this looks so expensive..."

Yuuri suddenly felt so out of place. Was he even dressed correctly for this? What kind of meals were they serving? Most certainly the ones that cost a fortune.

And Viktor had offered to pay... Oh no no no no no!

"T-this is way too much for me! I-I can't make you pay so much for me!"

Yuuri's face was getting red, he could feel it. Was he having a hard time breathing too?

[viktornikiforov]

Seeing how flustered the boy got made him laugh. Yuuri must not be used to being spoiled by anyone. Actually, wait. Viktor still never got confirmation if he was his first boyfriend or had he been in other relationships. Regardless, Yuuri's inexperience to being taken care of someone only made him more endearing.

"Yuuri, Yuuri." he touched his finger to his lips before leaning in close, his lips just a few inches from his. "I wanted to take you out for a while so please let this be my treat." he gave him a gentle peck on the lips before sitting down.

Now he took the time to look around. It was as his parents described it. Painting, glasses, and lights everywhere. It was magical and he was happy to have shared his first time with his now boyfriend. Or...at least that is still what he thought.

"Do you have to sit across from me or sit next to me." he looked up at him. A part of him wanted Yuuri to sit next to him so he could hold him all throughout dinner but even he knew the Japanese were very unaccustomed to public display of affection. So he decided to let the other decide.

[saenda]

Yuuri flushed harder as he felt Viktor's finger on his lips, shushing him, followed by Viktor's mouth on his own. It was short, nothing but a very brief kiss, but it was still enough to make Yuuri feel all the more flustered. He was even feeling dizzy at this point.

"O-okay..." he merely replied, knowing there was no use arguing with Viktor.

His coach could be stubborn when he wanted and, even if it made Yuuri ill-at-ease, he knew he wouldn't be able to make Viktor change his mind. Not that Yuuri was certain he could have paid by himself.

He wasn't used to all of this, wasn't used to being treated to dinner, especially expensive one. He'd never had anyone to take care of him that way. Somehow, despite the unease, it still felt nice that Viktor cared for him so much he'd want to treat him to dinner.

He hesitated when it came to chose his seat. He really wanted to sit next to Viktor, but they certainly weren't alone in the restaurant and he was a little embarrassed about it. But then again, he was supposed to show his love for Viktor, and he'd gotten bolder before, so he could do it again.

"I can sit next to you if I can have the seat next to the window," he finally mumbled, looking down, probably glowing from the blush.

He found it would be a good compromise. That way, he could be next to Viktor, and if he got to shy at some point, he could pretend he wanted to check the view.

[viktornikiforov]

Despite how nervous Yuuri was getting, he still found ways to accommodate. Viktor couldn't hold back from his smile anymore and motioned for him to sit down. He shifted a bit so that Yuuri could sit next to him but still had an excuse to sit there rather than across from him. In his mind, Yuuri must have treasured him so much that he would go against his own comfort zone to be next to him. He'd play nice for now.

He opened the menu and it finally hit him that they were in Russia. Even though they went to his apartment, had already spoken Russian, and toured around Moscow, it finally sunk in for Viktor that they were really here. He smiled a little and leaned in a little closer to Yuri. "I can order for us if you want. The menu is in Russian."

He scanned through the menu and saw the tasting menu. There were many courses to taste so why not treat him to a big meal. Yuuri honestly could use a big meal. The poor boy had been stressed out about his weight and the competition that he'd forget to eat sometimes.

[saenda]

Well, this felt nice. Even if he hadn't stopped blushing from the moment he'd realised in what kind of restaurant they were... Yuuri would have to get a grip at some point.

He took a deep breath to calm himself, knowing there was no use getting even more flustered. He'd done it, sat next to Viktor despite all the people in here, and he hadn't been swallowed yet. Might as well enjoy himself from this point on. Besides, he really was glad to be next to Viktor.

He was about to reach for the menu when Viktor mentioned it was in Russian. Right, of course. No use checking inside, considering there probably weren't much pictures inside - he glanced at Viktor's open menu and realised that he was right.

"Yeah, sure, you ordering sounds good," Yuuri replied.

He trusted Viktor to order something good and, besides, Yuuri had never tasted Russian cuisine before, so might as well start with anything Viktor would choose. Who knew, maybe Viktor would order his own favourite food!

[viktornikiforov]

With his approval, he flagged down a waiter and started to order in his native tongue. First, he ordered them some vodka to start them off. It was cold after all and some alcohol in their system could warm them up. Then he ordered a pre-fixed tasting menu. Why not try a little bit of everything there?

Of course, the waiter who was taking his order recognized him immediately and was trying his best now to fawn over him. Viktor laughed a little before turning back to Yuuri, he reached over to hold his hand in his own. "I order vodka for both of us, but stop when you need. You still have to practice tomorrow." kissing him gently on the temple. "Your coach will be taking you to the rink he always skates at." he rested his cheek against his head now.

[saenda]

Wasn't vodka usually strong alcohol? Yuuri feared he wouldn't drink much; he couldn't hold his liquor well.

He also remembered the last time Viktor drank in a restaurant and Yuuri had to admit he didn't know how to feel about that. Would Viktor get drunk enough to end up at the same point as he did back in China? Would it be a good idea if Yuuri was to practice tomorrow? Although Viktor always seemed fine the next day...

Still, this was a... date? of sort? Although Viktor did get really clingy when he was drunk, and Yuuri kind of enjoyed it secretly, even if it flustered him in public.

"Alright," he simply answered despite his inner turmoil, enjoying the kiss with a smile and the warmth of Viktor's cheek on his head with a shy but pleased blush.

[viktornikiforov]

Once he pulled back, he saw the slight pink in his cheek and it brought a small warmth to his chest. A soft sigh escaped his lips before he kissed him once more on the temple and pulled him close.

He could feel himself fall more in love with him. Honestly, he didn't know how it was possible. Yuuri was neither the hottest man in the world nor the most accomplished. But there was something about his personality and his soft reactions that really drew Viktor to him.

A part of him was terrified when he realized how much Yuuri idolized him. However as he got to know him, it was obvious that this boy wasn't the type to use him like the others. Like he once said, ice skaters had fragile hearts and he was no exception.

"Yuuri, what is it that you want to do most in Russia?" he whispered gently. "I feel too pushy. This is my home and you're my guest. I want to know what you're into."

[saenda]

"I..."

Yuuri hesitated. He knew Viktor was offering, but he was uncertain that requesting what he really wanted to see would be well received.

Viktor had never spoken much about his past. Yuuri had no idea who his parents were, what kind of childhood Viktor had, if he ever did any activities besides skating, if he had any other family he visited... And considering Viktor knew rather much about Yuuri, Yuuri couldn't help wanting to know more about Viktor.

But if Viktor never spoke of it, maybe he had his reasons. Maybe he never wanted to speak about it. And so Yuuri felt guilty for wanting to ask. For a short while, he felt his heart begin to speed up and the panic creep inside his stomach.

But he was in a restaurant that Viktor carefully chose for the both of them, and it was a special night that Viktor wanted to enjoy to its fullest. Yuuri didn't have any right to ruin it with anxiety.

So instead, he gulped it down, smiled and shrugged a little.

"Well, the markets you spoke about earlier are surely a wonderful sight to see. Ah! And in Hasetsu, you said that the beach reminded you of the one here. Maybe we could go see it!"

Yes, that was a nice save.