A Piece of Home

Yuzu thought he was ready. But as he waits for warm-up, he suddenly doubts himself. His ankle is not healed, he's had so little training, and this is the event of his life.

Everything inside him seizes up and he can't breathe. He feels so alone, the sole bearer of a nation's expectation. Not even the adoring crowd of fans helps.

There's sudden warmth against his back, a mere brush of arm that will look accidental on camera. Javi, right there behind him, with him. A piece of home.

Yuzu smiles, draws a breath. It's time to skate for gold.