In episode 12, Leo cheers for Otabek in his free skate (how cute is that)

and Phichit imagines Otabek as one of the skaters he performs with during his ice show (ahhhhh)

They must be somewhat close at least, so just think about Phichit and Leo together last season, trying to get Otabek to open up to them (Guang Hong doesn’t seem as close to him though, plus he debuted this season):

- Phichit and Leo try asking Otabek out for a meal, naturally Otabek rejects (just like he did with JJ)

- But they meet at the same cafe and the two of them casually sidle up to the same table as Otabek, acting all friendly (”oh fancy seeing you here”)

- Otabek feels uncomfortable but doesn’t object, resigning himself to staring at his food

- Phichit and Leo try to strike up conversation with Otabek, who’s mostly polite; he answers in slight nods and occasional mumbling without actually looking at them

- But their smiles and laughter are just so infectious

- Then Leo starts talking about attempting his driving test soon after the competition season

- Otabek finds himself starting to talk about how he’s planning to get a motorcycle as soon as he’s of driving age and he’s just suddenly at ease

- So at ease he even lets Phichit take a selfie with him and post it on Instagram

- And before Otabek begins his program the next day he hears Phichit and Leo cheering for him and just his heart melts a little

BONUS: Otabek mumbling words of encouragement as he watches Phichit and Leo’s programs really intently

Maybe this can’t match up to Otayuri (after all did you see that smile Otabek had on his face when Yuri finished his free skate he looked so proud ahhhh) but hey it’s a nice fuzzy little thought I just had