Hearts and Aces

“Yura,” Otabek says, and he’s surprised at the way it comes out. Sharper than he meant it to sound, and a little louder. He turns in the cradle of Yuri’s arms and tilts Yuri’s face up so they can look each other in the eyes. “It’s not just you. It’s because it’s you. Understand? I’ve never wanted to be like this with anyone else, so. I feel like...” Yuri is very observant, always has been, and very smart. He knows Otabek better than almost anyone. He says, “I’m safe for you, okay?” “Yes,” Otabek murmurs, and he leans his cheek against the top of Yuri’s head. “That’s how I feel. Safe. With you. So.” “So.” Yuri sort of laughs, and then he kisses Otabek softly, and then he says, “Finish your breakfast. And eat my toast. I don’t want it anymore.”