Homecoming

Disembarking in Japan always takes Yuzuru by surprise. The furore, the security detail, the fans. Cameras flash, the press descending upon him like hungry wolves. Their golden boy has returned and everyone wants a piece of him. He's arrived.

*

His music ends and the arena erupts in cheers, Poohs raining down onto the ice.

"Tadaima!" The words slip out unbidden. He knows he's done his country proud.

*

It isn't until much later, though, lying in bed in post-climactic bliss with Javi's arms wrapped around him, that Yuzu feels like he's exactly where he's meant to be.

Held, loved. At home.