Making Perfect by X-parrot (PG-13)

[elmey.livejournal.com]

Fandom: MAN FROM UNCLE
Pairing: none--to quote the author: "no slash, except what you want to see. (It's gen the way most of my gen is gen.) And a dash of (unresolved) het, because really, this is Napoleon Solo we're talking about."
Length: ~8.000 words
Author on LJ: xparrot
Author Website: X-parrot on AO3
Why this must be read:

My last rec was a look at Illya as he's preparing to impersonate Colonel Nexor in "The Gurnius Affair". Making Perfect shows us the aftermath: Napoleon trying to come to terms with his feelings; not a simple thing at all. How do you forgive a hurt that shouldn't need to be forgiven; how do you work with a partner whose hardness you flinched from, even as you know it's what saved you.

Back in New York, even a date with Terry the photographer ( a pitch perfect set piece--smooth operator meets Carnaby Street bird) can't distract Napoleon from thoughts of San Rico. He goes home and is forced into a confrontation with Illya, waiting for him at his apartment. An Illya who wants something from his partner but isn't sure what to ask for, just as Napoleon isn't sure he has it to give. This is a finely observed, subtle story of a parnership, a friendship that seemed inviolable, and that may, despite Napoleon and Illya's best intentions, have reached the final breaking point.

Napoleon rubs his hands over his face. "It can be your turn on the table next time," he says.

It usually is, Illya retorts, but only in Napoleon's head; aloud, he says nothing. When Napoleon drops his hands, Illya is still watching him.

He's still listening; he knows what he's supposed to say, but he isn't saying it.

Napoleon very rarely gets truly angry; the headaches aren't worth it. Rarely enough that he's not sure that the slow burn building behind his eyes isn't only the pressure of a premature hangover. He's never been angry with Illya before, that he can remember.

This isn't the satisfying righteousness of towering rage; it's unpleasant: bitter like bile, sick-making. For an insane second he wishes Colonel Nexor were still alive, so the rancor could be aimed at him, where it is deserved.

Making Perfect