The sequel to my previous oneshot, "Scathing," this fic is set approximately two months later (at the start) and can be read as a standalone, though I recommend reading "Scathing" first. Otabek Altin is a hardworking man, and after two months in San Piter, that quality has been honed to its finest. After two months' work with Yuri, Otabek is confident that he is not only a hardworking man, but a slightly masochistic one, given that he continues to bear a torch for a certain fiery blond, who seems ever so unlikely to reciprocate. But, as the days grow longer, trust is built, and several crisis are handled, might things change? And can Otabek's traitorous heart survive it, if they do? ~~~ Or: This is a birthday gift for the wonderful Taedae, who I hope gleans as much joy from this as I do from her presence in my life. ♥ This fic will be updated every two weeks, with updates no less than 4,000 words.