#princessmimoza

The next week Viktor and Yuuri were conjoined at the hip, rarely out of the other’s view  They went to several plays, a ballet, the newest opera to open in town, and practically every restaurant they could.  The time they spent together was the best and neither wanted it to end.

Yuuri returned home just before dark one evening and was surprised to see his father in the sitting room.  It was usually only used for company, but with his father being the only person in the room unnerved him.

“Yuuri,” Toshiya said, looking up from the paper he was reading, “Come, have a seat.”

Yuuri did as requested and sat in a chair next to the sofa.  He was nervous about his father’s motives but absolutely terrified if he wanted him to spend less time with Viktor. There was the family legacy after all.

“Did you have a good time today?” Toshiya asked, genuinely interested.

.”Absolutely stunning,” Yuuri revealed, “We went to see the latest play this afternoon and then had a light dinner at the new Thai restaurant.  I wholeheartedly recommend it.”

“How is Viktor?” he asked.

“He’s doing well.  I’m glad he’s back from Europe,” Yuuri admitted.

“One thing is for sure,” Toshiya began, “You aren’t moping around the house any longer.”

“What did you want to speak with me about?”Yuuri asked suddenly. his curiosity getting the better of him.

“It’s about the business,” Toshiya started, “You’re having a difficult time with basic practices.  I don’t know how to teach you any other way.”

“I’m sorry, Father,” Yuuri said, tapping his forefingers together, “I try my best.”

“I know you do,” Toshiya said, “I know the business makes you miserable and I don’t want to burden you with a situation you’ll despise for the rest of your days. Therefore, I’ve come to a decision.”

“Really?” Yuuri inquired, his heart pounding in his chest.

“I’m going to leave the business to Mari.  She had a mind for numbers and would be much happier.  That leaves you to pursue your dream of medicine.”

Yuuri couldn’t speak he was so ecstatic.  His dream had the possibility of being reality now and while he was beside himself, he didn’t know how to react.  He couldn’t wait to experience the university lifestyle, couldn’t wait to fill his mind with an endless amount of knowledge. The only thing that left a dark cloud hanging over him was being separated from Viktor.

“Thank you so much, Father.”

They stood and embraced each other, Yuuri finally feeling like he was being understood.  He never thought his father would see his side of the picture, but Toshiya surprised him in the best of ways.  

Toshiya mentioned he needed to head to bed since tomorrow would be an early day.  Yuuri needed to call it a night soon as well since he and Viktor were meeting for breakfast.  Taking the stairs two at a time, Yuuri settled into bed in record time, eager with what the new day held.

***

When Yuuri awoke the next morning, there was a fine mist in the air that threatened more rain later on in the day.  He was meeting Viktor for breakfast and was running late. He donned an outfit that he had put together when laundry was done. Skipping the ascot, Yuuri bounded down the stairs and out the door.

The cobblestone was slick and Yuuri fought to maintain his balance. Almost ending up on his derriere once, Yuuri turned to the alleys and wound his way through the labyrinth. Time seemed to pass more quickly and Yuuri found his spirit rise each step he took. Once he saw the roof of Viktor’s house peeking above the treetops, Yuuri was shaking with excitement. He closed the distance to the house quickly and knocked on the door.

Clare answered the door and greeted him with a warm smile.  Yuuri was quite fond of the maid and gave her a small hug.  After patting Yuuri’s forearm gently, she excused herself to get Viktor.

Viktor came downstairs within minutes, a bright smile plastered to his face. He could tell Yuuri was brimming with energy and found it infectious.  After greeting Yuuri, Viktor asked him how he was.

“You won’t believe what occurred last night,” Yuuri said.

“Let’s order our breakfast and you can tell me all about it,” Viktor suggested.

They ordered the daily specials soon after arriving at the restaurant and thanked the server before Viktor gave Yuuri his undivided attention.  Viktor could tell Yuuri was having a difficult time choosing where to start, so he decided to help him out.

“So, something happened last night after you got home?” Viktor inquired.

“Yes!  My father was waiting for me to return home and we got to talking.  The topic of the family business came to pass and I felt sweat trickle down my neck.  I thought he was going to demand more time of me, but he let me leave the business.  He’s leaving it to Mari.  I can pursue medicine!”

Viktor was thrilled for Yuuri, but a cold chill went up his back at the thought of Yuuri leaving to go to school.  He just found his one and was loathe to give him up.

“When are you planning on attending classes?” Viktor asked.

“I had hoped this coming fall,” Yuuri declared, “but I don’t want to leave you.”

“My sweet Yuuri,” Viktor began grasping Yuuri’s hands in his own, “Chase your dreams.  I could never keep you from that.  I’ll be right here waiting for you.”

“You could visit me in the city if you’d like. Perhaps stay for a couple of nights,” Yuuri said.

“I’d like that, but I’d have to see how business is going on my end.  I don’t think my father will be as understanding as yours,” Viktor admitted.

Yuuri thought about Viktor’s statement and nodded.  Nikiforov Metals was one of the town’s leading industries and an awful lot depended on Viktor being part of the business. Yuuri wished he could coax Viktor into moving with him but knew Ivan Nikiforov would never agree. 

They talked about the rest of their day while finishing breakfast. Both wanted to visit the library since a new book they were interested in arrived the week before.  Yuuri wanted to fill out an application for the university in the city as well.  Figuring they could kill two birds with one stone, they headed for the library once they were done eating.

The library was empty when they arrived which suited Yuuri’s comfort level.  He felt at ease asking the librarians for the university catalog and poring through the book.  Viktor checked out the novel that was released recently and started reading while Yuuri filled out the application.  It proved difficult since Yuuri hadn’t been to school in years, but he did the best he could.  He had a difficult time with character references, but when Viktor helped him narrow down the best choices, Yuuri realized he was overthinking the matter.

They were only at the library for a little over an hour.  Yuuri placed his application in an envelope and readied it for mailing. After purchasing a stamp and checking out a book, Viktor and Yuuri were on their way.  They hadn’t discussed where to go next, but they found themselves on the path leading to the willow tree.  It was their sanctuary against reality.  They could indulge in their dreams, talk about the future and steal forbidden kisses. Sitting beneath the tree, they cuddled together until their bodies melded with the other.

“Promise you won’t forget about me? Viktor pleaded.

“I could never in a million years forget you, Viktor,” Yuuri assured him, “You are the brightest star in my life right now.  I could never leave you.”

Viktor smilled and nodded before brushing his lips across Yuuri’s.  It left him feeling hopeful of their future.  He had a million thoughts swimming in his head, but he chose to be happy for Yuuri.  

“Copper for your thoughts,” Yuuri said.

“I’m so happy for you,: Viktor said, wrapping an arm around Yuuri’s neck and kissing his temple, “So very happy.”

“I’m going to be starved for your attention while I’m away,” Yuuri admitted.

“I’ll visit you every chance I get,” Viktor assured him, “I promise.”

With the promise of the future between them, they spent the remainder of the evening together, sharing deep kisses and loving embraces. Only parting for the morning, they made plans to see each other the next day.  Having one last kiss, they ventured back to their respective houses.

Play it Again in G

author: @regaldragonscribe artist: @princessmimoza rating: Teen+ warnings: None summary: Yuuri Katsuki is just a dime a dozen music student trying to pass his classes, keep up with his playing schedule and working to make something of the pieces of his self-esteem that he brought with him from Japan. Everything was supposed to stay normal. But, even the best laid plans can be wasted. Victor Nikiforov is a violinist who has been held up in the musical world as a virtuoso, but after so many years of giving his music to others he doesn’t have anything left to give. Instead of letting him quit Yakov lets him run with a project to try and give him back his love for music and sends him to Detroit ahead of him. Neither Victor or Yuuri has any idea that the other is what they need, but when they do find each other sparks fly and the music world may never be the same.

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The weekend had passed at a snail’s pace, but none slower than that day. Viktor’s father insisted he spent the majority of the day at the factory.  The day was filled with tediously boring meetings, placating the union’s grievances, and touring the factory floor.  While Viktor liked to mingle with the employees, he wanted the day to be over.

The night would be filled with time spent with Yuuri.

The young man had visited Viktor’s dreams countless times throughout the week, and while Viktor welcomed them, he hoped that most of them would come true.  He longed to touch Yuuri even if it was a gentle touch, he desperately wanted to indulge in the taste that was Yuuri through a kiss.  He knew he was overreacting and wondered if they would ever have a chance at more, but knew they wouldn’t unless the stars aligned on some deserted island.  A man could wish, he thought.

When the steam whistle sounded, marking the end of the day, Viktor grabbed his light jacket and raced toward the door.  He only planned on spending a brief time at home changing and freshening up before heading to the restaurant for dinner with Yuuri.  He was so looking forward to it that he barely missed mowing Clare over.

“Out already, Mr. Viktor?” she questioned.

“Yep, I have dinner with Yuuri tonight,” Viktor answered.

He had told Clare about their day in the slums and the evening under the willow tree. He relayed everything they chatted about and even the slight kiss to Yuuri’s forehead.  While Viktor thought he had overstepped his bounds, Clare thought that Yuuri might be welcome to the sweet gesture.  He hadn’t shoved him away, after all.

“Have a wonderful time, Viktor,” Clare said, smiling sweetly at him.

With a kiss to her cheek and a heartfelt hug, Viktor was on his way.

***

Yuuri, on the other hand, couldn’t believe how quickly the day had passed and he was thankful for it.  His father had given him a day off when Yuuri couldn’t figure out how to post a certain account’s books correctly. While it frustrated Yuuri to no end, he was glad he wouldn’t be high-strung that evening.

That evening he would be spending hours with Viktor.

The faint thrill raced through his body, the familiar feeling each time he thought of Viktor.  Yuuri had spent countless hours lying in bed or sitting on his balcony thinking of the man who caught his fancy.  He knew he shouldn’t entertain such thoughts, but Yuuri couldn’t help it.  He was the most intriguing, selfless, and gorgeous person he had ever met in his life thus far, and Yuuri didn’t think anyone could surpass Viktor.

Yuuri passed the time by reading a book he’d been meaning to finish.  He was too restless to finish the novel and went outside to stroll through his mother’s impressive garden.  All of her favorite flowers were in bloom, so Yuuri decided to pick a bouquet for her since he knew she wouldn’t have time to.  Ambling from plant to bush, Yuuri had an armful of flowers by the time he finished.  He decided it was enough and headed for their expansive kitchen.  Hiroko wasn’t home that afternoon, so Yuuri hastily arranged the flowers and placed them in a vase.  He knew that his mother would be pleasantly surprised when she returned home.

When the sun began its slow descent from the sky, Yuuri knew it was time to get ready.  He wanted to look sharp that night, so he had to decide upon something quickly lest he be tardy.  Flying through the outfits in his walk-in closet, Yuuri didn’t hear Mari come in.  After hitting her in the face with a shirt and her subsequent yell, Yuuri spun around on his heel and apologized to her sister.  Yuuri offered an explanation of why he was a nervous wreck, and Mari insisted on helping him find the perfect outfit.  Yuuri was relieved his sister helped him, choosing a cream long-sleeved shirt and a pair of cotton trousers.  He wanted to wear his straw hat, but Mari refused, saying it made the outfit look childish. Yuuri reluctantly agreed.

He dressed in record time and flew down the steps.  His mother had returned home and just finished setting the table when Yuuri went into the dining room and gave her a hug goodbye.

“Where are you off to, son?” she asked.

“I’m having dinner with Viktor tonight,” Yuuri replied, “I’m not sure how long I’ll be gone.”

“Have a fun time, dear,” Hiroko said, returning the hug and giving him a kiss on the cheek.

“I will, Mom,” he said, grinning at her, “I will.”

***

They arrived within minutes of each other.  Yuuri was waiting near a well-manicured hedge and grinned broadly when he saw Viktor.  Extending a hand in greeting, Yuuri felt a pleasant feeling run through him, growing stronger when Viktor clasped Yuuri’s hand with both of his.

“How has the remainder of your week been, Yuuri?” Viktor asked after the greetings were out of the way.

“It’s been good, but nothing as remarkable as tonight,” Yuuri said truthfully.

“I agree wholeheartedly,” Viktor said, “Ready to go inside?”

Upon Yuuri’s nod, Viktor opened the door for him and placed his hand on the small of Yuuri’s back, guiding him toward the maitre’d stand.  When he realized what he had done, his hand flew back as if he was touching fire.  He looked around their surroundings, but no one had noticed his faux pas.

Sighing a breath of relief, Viktor chatted with Yuuri until the maitre’d seated them.  They thanked the gentleman for the glasses of lemon water before perusing the menu.  Yuuri had only eaten at the establishment once and asked Viktor what he normally chose.  When Viktor mentioned the prime rib, Yuuri thought it sounded mouthwatering.  He decided upon that while Viktor mentioned he’d like to try the salmon dish.  They placed their orders when the server arrived and Viktor ordered a bottle of wine, his knowledge of the beverage impressing Yuuri immensely.

“So,” Viktor began, resisting the urge to take Yuuri’s hand in his own, “What do you think?”

“This?”  Yuuri started, “This is amazing.  I’ve only been here once, but it was a business lunch with one of my father’s clients.  I didn’t really get to enjoy the occasion.”

“Then we must visit here more often,” Viktor stated.

“Oh no, I couldn’t!  It’s so expensive here,” Yuuri objected.

“Then it shall be a treat.  Allow me a small whim, my sweet Yuuri,” Viktor said, his fingers brushing against Yuuri’s knuckles before placing his hand in his lap.

Viktor loved the way the blush crept up Yuuri’s neck and rested upon his cheeks.  He had learned through the day that they spent at the slums that Yuuri was easily embarrassed and didn’t take compliments easily.  Viktor had an inkling that Yuuri didn’t react well to terms of endearment either.

“I’m...um...I’m not used to someone referring to me in such a favorable manner,” Yuuri said.

“Why not is beyond me,” Viktor said, “You should have all the pleasantries and sweet endearments showered upon you every day of your life.”

Yuuri gave him an embarrassed smile which Viktor thought precious.  He returned the smile, it growing broader when he saw the twinkling in Yuuri’s eyes. Only interrupted when their meals arrived, they set about eating.

“Mmm,” Yuuri said after swallowing the first bite of prime rib, “This is decadent.”

“It’s amazing, that’s for sure,” Viktor said, “Would you like to try a bite of my calamari?  It melts in your mouth.”

Yuuri nodded and tried to take the fork from Viktor’s hand, but Viktor held onto it firmly.  Stabbing a piece of the fish with the utensil, Viktor raised his hand and offered the calamari to him.  Yuuri’s eyes never left Viktor’s while he took the bite, his eyes closing while he was chewing.

“How can any place make meals so luscious?” Yuuri asked, smirking when Viktor laughed.

“Their chef is from France.  I’ve heard that he is one of the best in the world, Viktor declared.

“Quite impressive.”

They returned to their meals, chatting and sipping on their wine.  When they finished, Viktor asked Yuuri if he’d like to partake in dessert, but Yuuri was too full.  They made plans to visit again in the near future, though Yuuri made Viktor promise to let him pay that time.

They wandered around town talking about every subject under the sun.  They chatted about the presidential elections and how the man voted in would ruin the country.  Their conversation then went to the most prominent’s daughter having a child out of wedlock.  They felt bad for the young woman since she was the talk of the town.  Yuuri was more concerned that the baby had breathing problems after she had him, knowing that information since his mother helped with the birth.  He also mentioned the small wooden car he’d brought to the baby’s mother for when he grew a little more.  The woman had tears in her eyes from Yuuri’s kindness.

They found themselves at the willow tree again.  Yuuri was hesitant to sit since the dew had fallen and Viktor was wearing linen pants.  When Viktor sat on the ground without thinking, however, Yuuri followed suit and laid back onto the soft, dew-kissed grass.

“Copper for your thoughts,” Viktor said softly.

“I was thinking about how much I enjoyed tonight.  This has to be one of the best days of my life,” Yuuri admitted.

“I’m so happy you feel that way,” Viktor said, smiling at him.

Laying in silence as they listened to the spring frogs sing their nighttime song, Viktor and Yuuri simply enjoyed the other’s company.  It was growing late though, and Viktor needed to wake early the next morning.

“I have to return home shortly,” Viktor said.

“As do I.  My father has a busy day planned for me tomorrow,” Yuuri said.

Viktor sat up and nodded.  Yuuri followed and stood up, brushing the grass off his backside.  Viktor noticed and felt his temperature increase.  He found every single action that Yuuri did amazingly attractive, and he wanted it for himself alone.

“Would you like to go to the play that’s performing at the theater on Sunday?” Yuuri questioned, “My parents have an extra ticket.”

“I’d love to.”

Stepping closer to Yuuri, Viktor placed his hands on Yuuri’s shoulders before embracing him.  Yuuri’s breath hitched as he felt himself lost in Viktor’s embrace.  Feeling his body come to life, Yuuri held his breath and wrapped his arms around Viktor.  Hugging him tighter, Yuuri felt lost when Viktor released him.

“Until Saturday, my sweet Yuuri,” Viktor said, squeezing his shoulders once before leaving.

Yuuri was on cloud nine, he had ascended to the heavens.  The electricity that had rushed through his body when he felt Viktor’s body against his own hadn’t abated, and Yuuri wished it would last forever.  Feeling ever so hopeful, Yuuri glanced at the moon and made a wish.

“Please allow Viktor and I something more,” he whispered into the still night air.  

Closing his eyes tightly, he wanted the wish to come true more than anything in the world.  Knowing he had to go home, Yuuri turned around and descended the hill, his heart forever hopeful.

The evening was chilly for late spring, leaving him wishing he had worn a heavier jacket or better yet remained at home.  He was expected to be there, however.  It was the ball of the season, the event of the elite in the city.  While he didn’t consider himself in the upper crust of society, his family name carried notable weight.

He felt confident in his appearance, wearing the latest fashion from Paris.  The coattails were something that took some getting used to but paired along with pinstripe trousers he felt dapper. His crimson cravat felt as if it were choking him and the highly polished shoes pinched his feet, but such was the bane of aristocracy.  He just prayed he’d get through all the pomp and circumstance of the occasion.

“Viktor,” his date began, “I’m thirsty.  When we get inside, would you be a darling and get me something to drink?”

“Of course, my dear,” Viktor said, lifting her gloved hand and kissing it.

They walked through the archway leading to the grand room, only pausing to be introduced.  The scattered applause didn’t bode well with Viktor, but he knew it was because of his date.  Her family prayed Viktor took a liking to her and wedded her, but Viktor knew it was hopeless on their part.  He invited her to the ball as a favor to his father since her family’s clout was deteriorating. 

After excusing himself, Viktor headed toward the refreshment table and perused the offerings.  Every delicacy befitting a ball of this magnitude was present.  Scrutinizing the appetizers, Viktor was pleased when he saw a towering platter of finger sandwiches.  He grabbed a plate and stacked several on it along with a few petit fours.  Deciding he had enough to last most of the evening, Viktor returned to his date.

“I think you forgot something,” she said, frowning when he looked at her cluelessly, “My drink.  I swear, Viktor, you are so scatterbrained for someone your age!”

“I apologize,” he said, handing her his plate, “I’ll be back in a moment.”

Heading to the table once more, Viktor waited until the server assisted those ahead of him.  The band had struck up a tune and several couples headed for the dance floor.  He turned around and watched the dancers waltz around in the open.  His eyes darted from pair to pair, and he recognized a few before his gaze stopped.

That’s when he saw him.

The young man appeared to be an angel descended from the heavens.  His tan plaid jacket complimented his jet black hair perfectly, the golden wire-framed glasses giving him a glowing appearance.  Viktor admired his slender figure and the way his vest hugged his upper body.  His hands seemed delicate under the white gloves he wore, but the way he held his date in his arms suggested admirable strength.  

Viktor was instantly smitten.

He watched the graceful flow of the man’s body as he twirled his dance partner around the floor.  His movements denoted one skilled in the art, and Viktor thoroughly enjoyed being privy to see it.  He could tell the man was carrying on a conversation with his date, and when his eyes crinkled when he smiled, Viktor thought his heart would cease beating.  His smile was brighter than any star imaginable and the joy on his face ethereal.  Viktor wanted nothing more than to swoon over the man, wished it was him being held in his arms, spinning around the hardwood floor with him.

Shaking the impossible thoughts from his mind, Viktor ordered a drink for his date and returned to her.  His gaze remained fixed on the man, however. Viktor was intrigued by him, and he thought he must introduce himself.  Trying to think of a way to strike up a conversation with him, Viktor was jolted from his reverie when applause broke out among the guests.

“Viktor?”

“Yes, dear?” he responded with a question of his own.

“I’ve been talking to you for the past five minutes.  I would like to dance now,” she declared, taking his hand and dragging him to the floor.

The band switched to a slower tune and Viktor held his date closer, but his eyes never left the young man.  He barely heard the words his companion was speaking, nodding every so often or giving a hum of approval.  His mind wasn’t on the woman in his arms, but of the man mere feet away from him.

The song seemed to drone on forever.  He wanted to break away from the crowd, find the man that caught his fancy and chat until the small hours of the morning.  He wanted to know everything about him, wanted to hear his laughter and see that broad smile directed at him.

Bowing to his date, Viktor excused himself and scanned the people surrounding him, but became dismayed when he couldn’t locate the one that fascinated him.  Deciding to get a breath of fresh air, Viktor headed for the balcony but froze when he saw someone leaning against the railing. 

It was him, the one that took his breath away.  

Viktor couldn’t believe his luck and wondered if the heavens were smiling down upon him.  Clearing his throat as not to frighten the young man, Viktor ambled up to the railing and stood next to him.

“Good evening, sir,” Viktor said, trying to steady his voice to contain his growing excitement.

“Good evening,” the man said, smiling softly at him.

“Quite the party, isn’t it?” Viktor asked, grinning when the other man chuckled.

“I hate these soirees,” he replied, “Too many expectations and secrets.”

“I agree wholeheartedly,” Viktor said, holding out his hand, “Viktor Nikiforov.”

“Yuuri Katsuki,” the young man said, shaking Viktor’s hand with a strength he found enchanting, “Pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“The pleasure is all mine.  What brings you to the Kelly’s tonight?”

“My father is their investor,” Yuuri said, “I’m representing my family.  I almost wish they had sent my sister.”

“I completely understand,” Viktor lamented, “My father is a steel magnate.  We’re expected to attend events such as this.”

“Wait, Nikiforov Metals?” Yuuri inquired.

“That’s us.”

“My father was just asked to take over as their financier,” Yuuri said in astonishment, “and here I am running into the scion of my father’s newest client.”

“I suppose it is a small world,” Viktor replied, chuckling slightly, “Maybe the stars have aligned or whatnot.”

“Perhaps.”

Viktor watched Yuuri as he stared out at the inky darkness sparsely sprinkled with gas lamps.  He wanted to know what was going through his head but thought it impolite to comment on it.  Leaning against the railing, Viktor looked at Yuuri when he sighed.

“I wish we didn’t have such social responsibilities,” Yuuri began, “I want to feel free and alive, not stifled under others’ expectations.”

“I agree wholeheartedly.  I’m expected to marry and carry on the family business,” Viktor said.

“What would you rather do?” Yuuri inquired.

“Travel the world, help the less fortunate,” Viktor elaborated, “I see the underprivileged in our city and it tugs at my heart.”

“That’s quite admirable of you,” Yuuri said, giving a smile that made Viktor’s heart skip a beat.

“What would be in your future if you had a choice?” Viktor questioned.

“I’d like to go to school for medicine,” Yuuri explained.

“A doctor is a highly respectable career choice,” he said.

“Alas, I feel my life will be dedicated to taking over for my father’s position once he retires,” Yuuri said, sadness mingling in his voice.

“As will mine.  Such are the burdens of an only child,” Viktor said, sighing deeply.

Yuuri nodded in sympathy.  While he wasn’t in the same situation as Viktor, he was the only male heir and was expected to carry on his father’s legacy.  He felt trapped in his circumstances and wasn’t ready to resign himself to his destiny.

“Perhaps in the next lifetime,” Yuuri mused, desperately hoping it were true.

“Mayhap,” he agreed, “but enough about melancholic subjects.  What does Yuuri Katsuki do to pass his time throughout the day?”

“Typically follow my father around and learn from him,” Yuuri revealed, “Other times I spend time in the park reading or playing croquet.  I’m the family champion.”

“Impressive,” Viktor said, grinning when Yuuri smiled, “Have you ever tried your hand at polo?”

“I can’t say that I have,” he said.

“Would you like to join me this week?  There is a spot open on our team since Harold will be out of town.  I’d love for you to experience such a grand occasion,” Viktor invited, sincerely hoping Yuuri would agree.

“Alright,” Yuuri said, “It sounds like fun.  As long as it doesn’t interfere with my schedule, I’d be delighted to tag along.”

“We generally meet up in the square at ten o’clock on Wednesday mornings.  Is that agreeable?” Viktor inquired.

“Quite so.  See you then?”

After exchanging information in case one needed to cancel, they parted for the night to return to their dates.  Viktor kept scouring the crowd for Yuuri much to his date’s chagrin.  The last time Viktor spotted him, he knew he had gone too far.

“You could be couth enough to hide your fancy for other women, Viktor,” she complained, gathering her clutch, “I’m ready to leave now.”

Grimacing as his date angrily shrugged into her shawl, Viktor played scenarios through his head to appease her.  He knew if word got back to his father that he avoided her most of the evening, the man would be most displeased.

“I apologize, my dear,” Viktor said when they reached the stoop of her house, “My wits were not about me tonight.  I promise I shall make it up to you.”

“Don’t bother,” she grumbled, “Good night, Viktor.”

He leaned in to kiss her cheek but was spurned when she spun on her heel and opened the door, slamming it seconds later.  He knew he should have felt horrible at the manner he treated the woman, but he couldn’t help feeling relieved.  Not only would the limelight of her family’s expectations dim, but he wouldn’t be pressed into future engagements involving the woman.

Which left him more time with Yuuri Katsuki.

Grinning to himself, Viktor whistled as he wound his way through the darkened streets toward his own home.

The weather hinted at a beautiful day: the birds chirping happily in the trees, the wispy clouds in the bluest of skies.  Gazing out the balcony onto the waking town below him, Viktor felt blessed to be part of such a wonderful day.

It was the day Yuuri was joining him to play polo.

He had woken early since he was anticipating the next day too much to sleep well the night before, and the morning crept by slowly.  The players were due to meet at ten, but it was barely past six.  Groaning to himself, Viktor headed back into his suite. 

He tried his best to distract himself until breakfast was served, spending time reading the paper from the evening before and hastily scribbling personal correspondence.  A walk on the grounds passed some time, but not enough to appease Viktor. Sighing in resignation, Viktor headed back into the estate.

The maid was already performing her duties for the morning, greeting Viktor when he passed her.  Clare had been a member of the household since he was a child and he thought of her as family.  Kissing her cheek before bidding her farewell, Viktor proceeded down the hall into the dining room.

His parents were already seated at the grand table, serving themselves.  When Viktor saw what was on the menu for that morning, he didn’t think his day could get any better.  Breakfast steak along with poached eggs and freshly squeezed orange juice highlighted the meal.  Various sweets and pastries were offered as well.  While he was saddened he wouldn’t be able to enjoy it like he typically did, Viktor knew that sport on a full stomach wasn’t the ideal situation.

“What are your plans for the day, son?” his father asked.

“I’m heading to the park to meet some friends for polo,” he began, “We have a new person playing today, so I want to get there early to give him some pointers.”

“I would like you back by four,” Ivan said, “It’s time to tour the factory floor and mingle with the employees.”

“Yes, Father,” Viktor replied, trying to hide the dismay in his voice.

He wanted to spend the entire day with Yuuri, but his father put a damper on any possibility of that.  He would have to make the best of what little time they had.  Hoping the game ended sooner than usual, Viktor excused himself to get ready.

He wanted to make a lasting impression on Yuuri.  Though it wasn’t their initial meeting, it would be the first time they spent any length of time together.    He wanted his appearance to project his very best, so he headed for the walk-in closet in his room. 

He owned several pairs of riding trousers, but none seemed up to his standards for the occasion.  He wanted to appear fashionable yet desirable at the same time.  He wanted to accentuate all of his assets to their fullest extent.

He wanted Yuuri to fall head over heels for him.

Choosing his best black pair of trousers and a loose fitting white overshirt, Viktor took his time getting ready.  Everything had to be perfect to achieve the look he wanted.  He was lost in thought about conversations he could have with Yuuri and picturing his smile when he heard a knock at the door.  Looking up, he saw Clare holding his wallet.

“You left this on the foyer table, Mr. Viktor,” she said.

“Thank you, Clare,” Viktor said, smiling at her.

“My, don’t you look smart this morning,” Clare said, returning his smile.

“I’m meeting someone,” he said, taking his wallet from her and sliding it into his waist pouch. 

“What’s his name?”

Clare was the only one he told about his attraction to men.  She was a trustworthy sort and Viktor was thankful to have her in his life.  Many a night were spent with Viktor spilling his heart at her feet while she held him, smoothing back his hair.  She was more of a parental figure to him than his biological ones.

“Yuuri,” he said dreamily, “He’s the most intriguing man I’ve ever met.”

“Tell me about him,” Clare said, sitting on the bed and patting the spot next to him.

Viktor spent the next half hour gushing about every favorable attribute Yuuri held him spellbound with: his smile, the color of his eyes, the lilt of his voice when he spoke among many others.  He knew he was rushing his words, but Clare was accustomed to his flights of fancy. 

“Do you think he’s the one?” she inquired.

“I do,” Viktor declared, “My heart goes pitter-patter every time I see him or think of him.  My nights have been spent dreaming of him.  I hope we’re meant to be, Clare.”

“Get to know him, Vitya,” she suggested, “Find out that his personality is as desirable as his exterior.”

“I will,” he said, clasping her hands in his, “I promise.”

“Do you need anything before I take my leave?” Clare questioned, patting his cheek when he declined, “Good luck, my boy.  I hope he’s everything you’ve dreamed and more.”

After a quick but heartfelt hug, Viktor gave himself a once over before leaving his room.  His favorite boots were in the mudroom, so he headed there.  Sitting on the bench to put them on, he thought about the possibilities that the day held.  Being less than an hour away from meeting Yuuri, Viktor felt the pacing of his heart speed up.  He had battled nerves before when being around someone he was keen on, but never this severe.  Taking a deep breath, Viktor composed himself and stood up. 

“There’s never a better time than now,” he whispered, quelling the anxiety in him and heading out the door.

***

The birds were singing cheerfully when Yuuri’s eyes fluttered open.  He had been looking forward to the day since Viktor mentioned it, and now that it was here he was a nervous ball of energy.  Dashing around the room to get ready, Yuuri found that he couldn’t decide on an outfit.

“Pray tell why are you making so much racket this early in the morning?” Hiroko asked once Yuuri opened the door.

“Remember the man I told you I met at the soiree?” Yuuri inquired, continuing when his mother nodded, “He’s invited me for a game of polo and I accepted.”

“Polo?” she questioned, wringing her hands, “Are you positive that’s safe, son?”  

“I want to live, Mother,” he said, giving her a reassuring smile, “He promised me that the members would take it easy on me.  It actually sounds like it’s going to be a quaint afternoon.”

Upon hearing Yuuri’s words, Hiroko gave him one last smile before leaving his room.  He knew his mother would find out sometime, and he was correct in assuming he’d have to assuage her nerves.  Pleased the confrontation went splendidly, Yuuri continued getting ready.

Not knowing when the game would be over, Yuuri chose to dine with his family for breakfast.  He was almost too anxious to eat he was looking forward to the day so.  Settling on toast and an apple, Yuuri excused himself and wished everyone a pleasant day.

He was slipping his boots on when his sister sat on the bench next to him, looking at him expectantly.  His sister knew him better than anyone and would know when he was acting differently.

“You have been invited to polo matches before but deemed them too dangerous.  What has changed this time, Yuuri?” she inquired.

“I thought it might be fun,” he replied, plastering an insincere smile onto his face.

“Really?” Mari asked, giving him a look of disbelief.

“I don’t know,” Yuuri confessed, “There’s something about Viktor.  His smile, the brightness in his blue eyes.  I’ve never seen a beautiful shade of blue such as his eyes.”

“Does my baby brother fancy this gentleman?” Mari asked.

Mari was the only one Yuuri had told about his attraction to both men and women.  Even though he found both splendid, he wanted to wait for an emotional connection before committing to a relationship. Mari found his resolve admirable.

“I don’t know yet,” Yuuri replied truthfully, “I’d at least like to get to know him.”

“Then I hope you have a marvelous outing, Yuuri,” she declared, hugging him before standing, “Be careful.”

“I will,” he said, beaming at her, “I promise.”

After shrugging into a light jacket, Yuuri headed out the door and toward the center square of town.  The city was bustling by the time he reached the outskirts, but it was pleasant.  He waved at a few shopkeepers on his way to the square, stopping once to talk to the grocer about the appointment he had with his father.  Once the time was confirmed, Yuuri took his leave and continued on his way.  

Viktor was waiting for him when he arrived, and his appearance took Yuuri’s breath away.  His black breeches clung to his lower half like a second skin and his white shirt billowed around his frame.  The way the shirt draped over his shoulders accentuated their breadth.  When Viktor turned toward him and the smile that lit up his face, Yuuri felt his heart clench with fondness.  

“Yuuri!” he exclaimed, holding up a hand in greeting.

Pt. 1  Pt. 2