[ Kahlil finds that almost non-response from Viktor a little curious, his slight confusion showing on his features for a brief moment. Maybe not, then. Or, more likely he thinks, the entire shift of the conversation has Viktor not willing to talk about his partner, because as they continue his expression hardens in that also familiar way. Kahlil finds his own eyes narrowing, frustrated. ]

I don't think you're careless. [ He scowls. That isn't what he meant, and it's not what he said. If he thought Viktor was pursuing this and careless, he would have sought to remove him half a year ago. ]

I think you're human, and you can't account for everything. You can't... control everything.

[ And beneath his frustration is a thread of deep concern, what might seem like anger closer to pain, and what must be guilt. What he doesn't seem is shocked by the admission. Maybe this other Viktor gave up because he hurt someone. Maybe he didn't, but something else went wrong. Whatever the reason, Kyle just doesn't want this one to walk the same path to the same end. ]

It doesn't matter. [ He leans away with that sudden dismissal of his own words, knocking back the rest of his drink. Kahlil already said he wouldn't stop him, or at least that he has no intention of harming him. That he hopes he's wrong, and Viktor proves him so.

But banishing his fears completely is impossible.

At the very least, Viktor must not be thinking about his dreaded ceremony anymore. ]