In the event that I did not return your feelings, yes? That is understandable. [...] Honestly though, I believe you had a much smaller chance of ruining things between us than I did.

[That's meant to be reassurance, not one-upping or anything like that. Rideaux can only imagine how much more of a disaster the trial would've been if Yuri had said made his feelings clear any sooner. So not to leave that on a sour note, though...]

If it means anything, however, I... [Hm.] I may have shared these feelings for some time now. I suppose I simply did not know how to define them at the time, as they were completely unfamiliar.

[It felt like appreciation, but so much more. More than he could describe. Now that he's felt it again with Yuri in his arms, though? He thinks he has a clearer idea.]

I'm glad that you are happy, though. [...before he can say anything too sappy, he follows that up with:] Really, the only thing you have to concern yourself with now is figuring out how to impress me if you intend to take me on a date.