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Chapter Text

The four pillar has been restored. The Great Seal is standing strong like never before. For keeping and fulfilling his promise to Shennong after 5000 years, for his sacrifice to fix The Great Seal, the almighty Ghost Slayer finally gets what he deserved. He has been granted a soul fire, and returns to his beloved god's embrace. Their live has just begun.

-

Zhao Yunlan opens his eyes slowly, still feeling drowsy. He had opened his eyes several times since 6 a.m, but just too lazy to resist his sleepiness and before long he goes back to sleep. But this time, he chose to finally get up. he rubs his eyes, and stretch and turning on his bed. He realize his wife is not by his side. he gets ups, sitting on the bed, reaching his phones that he put on the drawer beside the bed. 8.07 a.m. Zhao Yunlan gets up, going out from the bedroom. He could hear cluttering noises, and smells something good.

my wife's in the kitchen.

There, He found his wife immersed in cooking. Wearing clean white shirt that’s shaping his body a little– you could see the curves made by those lean muscle –the sleeves is folded so it didn’t get dirty, a neat grey trouser, and of course on top of that he is wearing apron, a striped dark grey one. His hair is not as neat– a little bit loose –as his usual get up. it gives a refreshing aura to others. 

Shen Wei heard his step, and turn his body and head a little, showing Zhao Yunlan a side of his face. "Good Morning, Ah-Lan" said Shen Wei, while giving what Zhao Yunlan describe as 'an angelic smile that is so bright it melts your heart'. Even just seeing a side of that smiles makes Yunlan's heart felt warm. Zhao Yunlan didn't answer immediately, he instead walk around the kitchen counter, embraces Shen Wei from behind, his arms around Shen Wei's waist. Face buried unto Shen Wei's neck, takes a long breath and sniff it. my morning scent ,  Yunlan thinks. "Morning" Answers Yunlan lazily, then he snuggles.

"At least wash your face first. Better yet, brush your teeth. Let me finish preparing for breakfast" Shen Wei's body shifts, trying to face the other side to put the hot bowl in his hand onto the tray. His other hand trying to pull Zhao Yunlan's arm and freeing himself from the embrace. Not that he dislike it, but breakfast is important.

Contrary to Shen Wei's reaction, Zhao Yunlan tightens his embrace while whining "How cruel. Look at my evil wife, not only he is not giving me morning kiss first thing in the morning, also not allowing me to hug him. Love is declared dead, today!"

"Who's your wife," said Shen Wei lightly, while still trying to pull Zhao Yunlan's arm away.

"Aiyaahh.. not even acknowledging his husband. Poor me,"

Shen Wei just sigh, and shakes his head a little, listening to his beloved’s nonsense talk. He's finally able to turn his body, still in Zhao Yunlan's arms. Now facing each other, still glued, Shen Wei's free hand caress Yunlan's hair on his side, he gives a short yet sweet kiss on his Forehead.

"Wash your face," Said Shen Wei again.

With reluctance and a pout he puts up just to be shown to Shen Wei, he stands in front of the sink. He bends a little, turning the tap and washes his face. After feeling more awake than before, he dries his face with his shirt. Shen Wei, watching this, frowns.

"What? I washed my face like you told me to," Said Yunlan like he didn't know why his lover is frowning.

Shen Wei continues to arrange the table for breakfast, and Yunlan is sitting down on the table. While putting down the last bowl in front of Yunlan, Shen Wei bends his back and turns his head to the side, giving Yunlan a peck on his lips.

You could see his ears reddening a bit, and he finally sits down across Yunlan. Yunlan's eyes widen a little, his eyebrows arching. Then he rubs his nose just below with his finger, hiding his smile. Shen Wei knows how to make his greedy husband happy.

After that, they eat their breakfast together. Zhao Yunlan, while eating, didn’t forget to mumble some compliment, such as “Have i told you your food is addictive? damn, what did you put in here? Your food never fails to impress me. Thank god you’re my wife and not someone else’s”. Zhao Yunlan, to this day, never fails to compliment everything Shen Wei do – at least once –every single day. Other people would think Zhao Yunlan just trying to suck up to Shen Wei, but Shen Wei knew every single compliment Yunlan gives him is genuine. In his heart, he is always happy and proud every time he heard Yunlan praising him, no matter how small. Not like he will ever tell Zhao Yunlan that. He’s already shameless as it is, telling him he actually don’t mind the over-compliment would just asking to dig his own grave as Zhao Yunlan would never stop doing that in front of other people. 

Little did he know, his face is easy to read –at least for Zhao Yunlan –and Yunlan knew he’s happy of his compliment, that’s why he is doing it in the first place. It’s also funny seeing the reaction of gullible Shen Wei. That’s a secret, of course!

“Eat the vegetables too, not just the main dishes. Your eating habit is a mess, how are you going to keep your health like that” Scold Shen Wei softy, while filling Yunlan’s bowl with some side dishes with his chopsticks. It’s not like Yunlan having a hard time eating veggies, he actually could eat anything offered. Shen Wei’s food is always tasty too; but sometimes Yunlan can be quite picky and not including veggies on his diet.

“Aaww, you care so much for your hubby’s health,” tease Yunlan while eating what Shen Wei gave him.

“Of course, you have to have a healthy body and live long, so we could be together as long as we can”

Zhao Yunlan is speechless for a bit and he stops his hand from scooping another mouthful.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nah, nothing. Of course, you’re right. We need to live long. Long enough,” Replied Yunlan at last, and continues his eating. Not everyday Shen Wei could said such romantic and embarrassing line like that. He didn’t have the heart to tease Shen Wei. Not when he said it softly but full of passion and care. Continuing his eating, Yunlan glances a little to see Shen Wei is blushing, you can see it from his ears and cheeks a little. He tries to hide his embarrassment by fixing his glasses. 

How cute , Yunlan thinks, and smirks a little

Not long, they finished their breakfast and Shen Wei is stacking the dishes to wash. “You have classes this morning, right?” Ask Yunlan. “No, my classes schedule today is exchanged with mini field trip, and the professor in charge is not me. My classes is not until noon. But i do have some faculty meeting i have to attend before that” Said Shen Wei while washing the dishes. Yunlan always tells him to just put it into the dishwasher, but Shen Wei explains in detail how he thinks that manual washing is way cleaner and that he didn’t believe machine that much to do a good work. At least Shen Wei is compromising by drying the plate on the dishwasher –Of course with Zhao Yunlan’s persistence.

“Okay then, i’ll wash up. You get ready and let’s go together” Then Yunlan rushes to the bathroom inside their bedroom. Not long, they’re ready to go to work. About 20 minutes after he said this, both of them are ready to go out. Now, Shen Wei is way formal and neat than Shen Wei a couple of minute ago. He is in what you call a spot-less professor attire. Now covering his shirt is a same colored grey suit with his trousers. His air is neatly combed, and he is wearing his usual round glasses. 

Zhao Yunlan, being Zhao Yunlan, wearing loose white t-shirt, light blue jeans that’s ripped in some places, and his usual light brown boots. his navy green jacket is folded on his hand. “You don’t wear your jacket?” ask Shen Wei, kinda bothered Yunlan didn’t try to cover up his ski–body more

“almost summer, too hot to wear jacket” Yunlan shrugged. 

“Let’s find some clothes for summer on our next shopping trip. Something less…” Shen Wei didn’t continue his words, eyebrows frowning and he fixes his glasses.

“Aha, is our professor jealous of people looking at me? Don’t mind them. I only have interest on you,” said, Yunlan teasingly.

That’s not the problem..

“Well i don’t mind we going out to buy clothes. How about this? you choose mine, i choose yours? haha.. i’ll definitely choose a good one for you, my professor” tease Yunlan again

“Let’s just go..” Said Shen Wei, feeling helpless.

Not long after, on Yunlan’s car, they arrived on campus. 9.45 a.m. Shen Wei got off the car.

“Drive carefully, See you later” remind Shen Wei, even though the SID’s office is only 5 minute away.

“ Ciao, i’ll pick you up” he puts two finger on the side of his forehead and wave it.

“I’ll just walk to your office” Zhao Yunlan ponders a little, and then nods. having Shen Wei ‘pick him up’ is not bad, too. 

“...And don’t forget to wear your jacket!” Add Shen Wei, as Yunlan speeds up the car. Yunlan just waves his hand outside the window. After that, Shen Wei walks towards his office, ready to join that faculty meeting full of unimportant bickering of old professor and campus administrator...

-

Not even 10 minutes later, Zhao Yunlan arrives on SID’s office. He parks his car and casually walk inside and nods to Old Li who’s sweeping the front porch. Around this time, usually all SID’s morning shift members already clocks in, except there’s a call at night and they haven’t came back from the case, or is allowed to go home and rest. But it’s rare the last couple months, so there should be everyone at the office.

Yunlan walks in and scan the office quickly. He sees Zhu Hong’s face plastered to her monitor. Must be chasing sale deals on online shop again. Lao Chu’s the same, must be tampering with stock market. He just sees Guo Changcheng comes out of the library and is coming down. He sees the Chief, and gives an energetic “Good Morning, Chief!”. Yunlan always amazed how Xiao Guo never fails to energetically greet him. Nowadays he’s not stuttering while saying it, too. 

Hearing Xiao Guo, Zhu Hong says “You’re here, Old Man” as Yunlan walks closer to their tables. Lao Chu just lift his head, looking Yunlan in the eyes and nod a little, back to his PC again. Yunlan already get used to his subordinate impoliteness he didn’t say anything. Furthermore, his heart is light because of Shen Wei this morning, and don’t want to ruin it. 

He hears some cluttering noise from the canteen, must be Da Qing wrecking the kitchen in search of food, making more work for Old Li. Da Qing technically lives with Yunlan and Shen Wei, but sometimes he can’t handle ‘their annoying and disgustingly romantic love life’ that he chose to sleepover on other places, or sometimes sleep on SID’s office. He also did that when it’s just him and Yunlan before, but it’s because Yunlan usually drink till morning that he didn’t feed Da Qing so he has to fend for himself, or when Yunlan is so grumpy he can’t take it. Last night he also didn’t sleep on their house, hence he’s already at SID. 

“Where’s the fake monk?” referring to Lin Jing. “...said something about some girl, dunno” Zhu Hong says as she shrugged her shoulder, trying to remember Lin Jing’s text he sent her. Zhao Yunlan looks at his wristwatch, “.... 15 minutes, no follow up, remind me to hold off his bonus till next month. I’ll be on the attic. Call me if there’s something.” Said Yunlan, heading to his favorite place.

-

It has been about four months after their epic battle with Ghost Face and the restoration of The Great Seal. After going through the chaos of recruiting floods of people who wants to join, SID has finally calmed down. Now, every employee had gotten used to their new office on University Street No.9, just one street away from Dragon City University. Of course, everyone made no comment how Zhao Yunlan basically use his connection and kind-of-manipulative-and-persuasive skill, and government money to get them to build a brand new office –even though their old ones are just fine– for the sake of wooing and getting close to his crush. He didn't even think of the hassle of moving offices abruptly, not considering his colleague living area (why should he? he bought a house near the office, obviously) and other important thing.

Well at least his attempts are successful, now that his crush is officially his boyfriend (You can hear Zhao Yunlan shouts "He's My Wife!" from the attic). And they technically and literally save the world, not that anyone can argue or protest after that. At least the office is way bigger and nicer (again, the old ones is also good), and everyone got their own personal place to do what they wanted to do. Which, Zhao Yunlan monopolize the garden with his vegetables, and the attic for himself. Oh, and Shen Wei. Lin Jing has been whispering about how it's basically the Chief and the Professor's love nest. One of this days he's just asking to get his bonus cut, till it became negative and his bonus is just postponed. Not like everyone sympathize with him, he deserves it.

After the long and tiring, and kind of tangled in accident recruitment process, they settled for two new recruits, both has physical bodies – just a side note – one's a boy and the other's a girl. They'll be officially recruited as a trainee in a month. But, that's a story for later.

Though the situation have calmed down these past couple months after the battle, doesn’t mean SID’s work is over. For starters, if there’s no more work, all of SID’s member would be pretty much jobless. The reincarnation cycle has been restored, the ghost tribe had been granted a soul and is now living in hell, under the jurisdiction of the underworld. It’s pretty much peaceful, but that doesn’t mean there’s no problem. There’s still fairies, and not that human cannot cause trouble. Even if the hallows is used to uphold the pillar, that doesn’t mean there are no other thing that has powers. There’s still humans, spirits, and fairies that’s in trouble, or, causing trouble. And then there’s the fact of newly (re)formed ghost tribe, That’s just getting used to life in hell. There’s still those that strays to the surface and could cause problems. For such cases, SID is still needed.

Zhao Yunlan is just about to doze off on his sofa in the attic, when Zhu Hong goes up and said “Chief, we have situation. It’s from Lin Jing”. Yunlan opens his eyes immediately, and sits up. Grumbling a little, he waste no time to go down to the office. “Better be something..”

Going down, he could see Xiao Guo is receiving a call, while Chu Shuzhi is already standing, across Guo’s desk. 

“What’s wrong with Lin Jing?” Zhao Yunlan ask Zhu Hong. “He called just now. About the girl that he said earlier… he bumps her when he’s in a station, about to go here. He said that the girl’s eyes is blank like she didn’t see the surrounding. When he tries to talk to her, she suddenly convulses and shake rigorously, as if possessed. before Lin Jing could determine if it’s the work of a spirit, she stops her shaking and back to her sense again, forgetting everything. After talking to some locals there, turns out it’s a common occurance lately. After making sure the girl’s safe, he said he’ll try to find more info but there’s definitely something fishy about that” explains Zhu Hong quickly. 

“You said station, before? where exactly is he? just where the he is he before that?” 

“North part of the city, a bit further. He said on the rural town there”

“The hell is he up to now.. that useless monk” Just as yunlan pinching his forehead,

“Chief, there’s a call for a case! I.. It’s from the ministry”

“Rrrggh.. what is it?”

“Th.. they said it’s the fairies, they’ve confirmed it. It’s a group of teenage fairies that’s just recently gained little power, and is causing trouble on the town near the place of their cultivation”

“Ugh, Firsties-syndrome. Have just finished their early cultivation and thinks they are the strongest” Mur murs Zhu Hong mockingly. Yunlan made no comment.

“Fine, then. We have two cases. Mysterious possibly spirit-attack on the edge of the city, and snobby teenagers who thinks they own the world. Any volunteers?” right now they stand face to face making a circle. All three of his subordinates just stares him, not in good way. Not like one is better than the other.

“Okay then. Zhu, you go with Lao Chu to teach those brats a lesson. Maybe you two’s stare is enough to shut them up. Seeing who’s in charge is faster in cases like this. I’ll go with Guo and see what Lin Jing’s up to.” all three nods.

“They’re ‘teenage’ fairies, yeah. But they’re older than you, you know” Said Zhu Hong, while she and the others prepares before taking off.

“Older or not, those who makes trouble like that are brats to me” Said Yunlan, not caring. From the start, he’s not that polite. 

“Going somewhere? looks like today is busy?” Da Qing suddenly pops up and jumps onto the table. 

“Have some bratty fairies to beat to sense” Answers Chu without looking at Da Qing.

“Oh yeah? May i come? I like teaching brats a lesson~” sad Da Qing mischievously, he stretch, opening his mouth, showing his fangs and his claws. Sadly for him, he just looks like a fat cat who just woke up, stretches his body and yawning.

“Yeah right. You’ll just be a laughing stock. Just stay here and watch the office, answer if there’s a call, say we’re out” says yunlan, patting Da Qing on the had and ruffles it.

“I’m sorry? just so you know, i’m one of the oldest fairy cultivator alive, also the close companion of one and only almighty Lord Kunlun. I’m a Godly cat, you lowly human being! And how the hell you expect me to answer a phone?” Da Qing hisses.

“Use your godly cat power then. Now, scramble, guys!” Yunlan wears his sunglasses and twirling his car keys with his finger, heading outside. the other follows. Shuzhi and Zhu Hong uses SID’s car, they’re heading to their respective destination.

Da Qing snorts, now heading back to the canteen to make more mess.

-

A little before 9 p.m, Zhao Yunlan arrives on SID’s office. He parks the car and got off, followed with Guo and Jing. As he walk towards the entrance, he saw the office’s car, driven by Zhu Hong arrives. Chu Shuzhi got off, his face is dark, he mumbles something and walks inside with big steps, not even looking at Zhao Yunlan. The Chief frown, and ask “Why the hell does he looks like he wants to murder someone but can’t?” Zhu Hong walk past him, also sour faced “I would kill them myself if i could” Says Zhu Hong, then quickly goes inside.

“Hey, you’re not the only one who had the rough day! don’t you give me your angry look. Hey, you - Fucking..- Rrrrgghh..” Yunlan repressed his anger, also walks inside. Guo and Jing trails behind him, their face looks tired. Well at least it’s very visible on Lin Jing. Guo is so cheerful that even though he’s tired, you can’t really see it.

By Now, the one who’s at the front door is Old Wu, who works on night shift. As they walk in, they’re greeted by Wang Zheng and Sang Zan.

They have some couches on the main hall, besides their office quarters. It’s the place to discuss things and prepare or relax before and after their missions. Chu immediately throws himself onto the couch, a little bit slouching. Zhu Hong sits across him. Zhao Yunlan did the same as Xushi, facing Zhu and Chu from the other side. Lin Jing sits beside Zhu Hong, and Guo besides Lao Chu. He seems a little bit nervous seeing Lao Chu like that, but sometimes he peeks to his side. Seems like he is worried.

“The hell happened with you two?” ask Yunlan opening their short briefing. After everyone’s already explains a bit about their mission, he plans to send them home. The formal report can wait for tomorrow.

“We get there like you ask. The brats is not even the problem..” With Guo beside him, seems like Chu has calmed down a bit.

“What does that mean?”

“Well.. as Chu said, the brats are not the problem. When we get there, we bumps with some ministry dogs” Zhu explains. Looks like she’s so pissed she doesn’t even filter her words

“We don’t really care about them. After some useless formalities, we know the situation and start to search for the trouble making fairies and put a stop to them. But those useless ministry fools insist to follow us because they needed to see how exactly SID handles the cases. Not like we care. After some times we caught one of the fairies and we manage to get them to gather up, after we set some… examples. But it escalate after the troublemaker calls someone. Turns out besides the brats, there are some stray cultivator taking a base there, and have been making trouble for quite some times. They didn’t fear the name of SID, and then, uh.. we show them who’s the boss to them”

Chu smirks evilly as Zhu Hong explains, remembering what they did that afternoon.

“Not long after, we manage to tie them all up, calling some representative of each fairy clan and we hand it to them. Said they will be punished accordingly. But the problem is… rrgh, i don’t even wanna talk about it. The ministry dogs say craps about how we should handle this situation more calm and not being reckless. Hell, do they even know how this works?! So.. Uhh, Chu kinda snaps and attack those ministry guys. And i think they may file a report to the higher up”

“Don’t say it like you’ve done nothing. You did worse, the guy’s piss on his pants” Said Chu.

“Well well.. i see now. No worries, i’ll probably do the same if i was there. I’ll talk to the higher up. But why would they feel like they need to watch us..” Yunlan ponders, after understanding their situation.

“Must be because of the last incident. They would think all of us should be monitored properly, it could be a problem if the same thing happens” Da Qing suddenly jumps onto the table, wagging his tails and showing off his big fat body. The incident refers to their big battle with Ghost Face.

“Now you show up… the hell have you been?”

As Yunlan ask, Shen Wei and Old Li shows up with trays full of food, setting it down the table. “Good work everyone, you’ve all work hard” says Shen Wei, Smiling and looking at everybody one by one.

“Professor! You made all of these?” All of the guy is quite surprised, yet is very happy and drooling looking at all the food on the table. 

“Old Li and Da Qing helps. Help yourself” Answer Shen Wei, still smiling.

As soon as the professor said that, all of the guys quickly munch down the food. Lin Jing didn’t look as tired, in fact he’s full of energy now. Zhu and Chu finally relax and also enjoys the food. Guo is smiling, filling his plate with food.

“Babe! you’re here? i thought i told you to go home first” Yunlan is surprised.

“I think that you guys are having a lot of work, when you said you’ll go home at night. I’m free anyway, so i figured i’ll help a little”

“It’s not a little professor! Thank You So Much” says Guo Energetically.

“It’s been a while since you cook for us, it’s tasty as always!”

“Thanks Professor!”

“You’re the best, Professor!” The other remarks.

Shen Wei sits beside Yunlan, as he starts eating too. “How’s your work today?” He ask Yunlan.

“No biggie. It is tiring though. Apparently there’s an ancient gourd made by ancestor monk at some temple that holds some spirits. Probably a method of exorcising back in the day. Turns out the seal got loose and some spirits got out. Took a lot of time to gather them all, before handing it to Hell Guards”

“Must be a lot of work. Eat lots, after that, rest” Said Shen Wei softly. Yunlan just nod, as he munch down Shen Wei’s delicious food.

“Hah! Puny mortals. Just a little work like that and you’ve complain” Da Qing says as he munch down food he steals from the other’s plate

“Like you do any work!” Zhu Hong hiss, throwing some food to annoy Da Qing.

“You think i’m useless like you? i work too you know! i work hard today”

“It’s true, Da Qing works hard today” Shen Wei shield him.

“Oh yeah? what did you do?” Now Yunlan is intrigued.

“I…. i did work! i help citizen!” somehow Da Qing is nervous.

“There’s a spirit of an Old Woman asking for help. She had lingering affection and can’t pass on. So Da Qing helps her finishing her business” Shen Wei explains.

Zhao Yunlan turns to Shen Wei “How did you know so much?”

Shen Wei hesitates a little before answering “I arrived here at afternoon. The Spirit came on the evening. I.. help a little. After we’re finished i ask the hell guard to take her” He intends to help Da Qing, who knew he actually step on landmines.

“What Godly powers, you got help by the professor” Lin Jing Snickers.

Da Qing just hisses.

“What’s the Old Lady unfinished business?”  Ask Guo, he seems concerned.

“When she’s alive, she seems to take care of a lot of stray kittens. Now dead, there’s no one to take care of them. So we went there, and after giving them some food, Da Qing… Uh.. tell them that the Old Lady is dead and they have to be independent from now on”

As Shen Wei finished talking, all of them laugh out loud.

“Ahahahah, so you’re having conversation with those cat? What’s so godly about that?” Right now all of them is just laughing at Da Qing. He hisses, clawing everybody before jumping to Shen Wei who consoles him, after he apologize.

After having a hearty meal, they’re ready to go home.

“Da Qing, why don’t you come home today? I’ll make a warm milk for you” Shen Wei offers Da Qing. Seems like he’s still a bit guilty from before.

Da Qing’s eyeing Shen Wei, before jumping to his arm. Shen Wei carries him gently. “Stop bothering my wife, you fat cat! Get away from him!” Yunlan snarls. Da Qing grumble, and then jumps and settles on Yunlan’s shoulder. “Hmph..”

“Okay then, go back to your nest, all of you! i expect a written report tomorrow on my desk. Wang Zheng, Sang Zan, i’ll leave it to you guys then”

Wang and Sang sees all of them to the door, nod to their chief’s order. And then all of SID’s day shift member scramble and going to their respective home. Zhao Yunlan, Da Qing and Shen Wei head towards their car, also ready to go home. “I’ll drive” says Shen Wei. Yunlan ponders, and then smiles. He throws the car keys to Shen Wei “Here. Take me home, babe”. Yunlan prefers to care for Shen Wei rather than being taken care of, except when they’re home. But he knew Shen Wei likes to, as much as he is. So he let’s him sometimes.

And so, two people and a cat heads back to their house, not far from the office.

Chapter Text

The next morning, all three members of the household is eating breakfast together. Just like the previous morning, Zhao Yunlan walks out from the bedroom, still in his sleep wear. But it looks like he already washed his face, though there’s still a bit of sleepiness on his eyes.

“Good Morning, Ah-Lan, sit down. Breakfast will be ready soon” Shen Wei walks closer to Zhao Yunlan, reaching his head and gives a quick kiss on one of Yunlan’s eye. He pulls one of the chair for Yunlan to sit. “Hmm~ morning, Xiao Wei” He enjoys Shen Wei’s pampering.

Da Qing meows loudly and jumps onto one of the chair. “What are you looking at, Fat Cat. Don’t you dare jump to the table, your fur is falling everywhere! it will ruin Xiao Wei’s food” Da Qing meows in protest.

“Come here, Da Qing, i’ll warm up some milk for you” Shen Wei tries to separate these frenemies before some civil war going to break out early in the morning.

Da Qing meows again, going to the kitchen counter. Now he is circling and clinging around Shen Wei’s leg and purrs. “Haha, okay, okay. Be patient. I’ll also add your favorite premium Tuna” Da Qing meows again, now full of energy.

“Hmph… acting so cute. Meowing like a cat didn’t make you cuter. When you talk people will know how horrible of a character you are”

“Yunlan..” Shen Wei looks at him. “But it’s true!” he doesn’t accept Shen Wei telling him off. Not like Shen Wei says anything though.

“Eat well, Da Qing” Shen Wei pats Da Qing as he pours the milk and the Tuna into a bowl. Then, he scratches Da Qing’s chin. Da Qing hesitates, but then he purrs. It’s not like he can deny it… it is good to be scratched, but he didn’t like it. being treated like some pet… but it did feels good… damn.. He let it be, because Shen Wei is such a good man, and takes care of him well. Not like his true master.

After Da Qing starts eating, Shen Wei sits down in front of Yunlan, and then they start to eat. Today breakfast is a simple western meal. Slices of french toast topped with eggs and bacon, and a small bowl of cream soup, the drink is fruit juice. “Sorry i didn’t make much. I need to go a little bit earlier today, for morning classes”

“No worries! it’s tasty as always, and it’s more than enough for me. You need me to drop you off?”

“No need, Ah-Lan. I’ll just walk, it’s not even that far. I’ll go after we finishes breakfast”

“Okay,”  And then, they continue their breakfast and chat.

While still chatting a little, Zhao Yunlan’s phone vibrates. He took his phone which is on the table, a little away from all the food. He looks at who sends him a message, seems like he blanked a little, before putting his phone again, looking like he didn’t care.

“Who is it?” Ask Shen Wei tries to ask it casually.. He feels like there’s something about the message, or whoever sending it. But he didn’t want his question make Zhao Yunlan uncomfortable.

“No one” Said Zhao Yunlan fast, a little bit cold. Shen Wei didn’t try to probe further.

As they eat, Zhao Yunlan vibrates again several times, but the owner didn’t seem to care much. Da Qing, had finished his meal jumps on to the table, near Yunlan’s phone. At that time, the phone rings, meaning there’s a call. Yunlan hurriedly snatch his phone in one swift move, but it’s too late. Da Qing caught a glimpse of the caller’s name.

“You know she’ll be mad if you keep ignoring her” Da Qing said nonchalantly. His first words this morning.

Zhao Yunlan snorts “Now you talking. I’ve said this before, everyone will know you’re not such a cute cat when talking. Stop poking on someone else’s business” 

“Suit yourself then, don’t say i don’t warn you” He storms out from the kitchen, to the place without grumpy Yunlan.

Shen Wei, listening to their conversation, kinda guess who texted his lover. He knows, and trust Yunlan so it must not be a stranger girl or woman. And looking at Da Qing’s statement and Yunlan’s  behaviour, It’s his mother.

Yunlan sigh, again facing his food, trying to eat. But he eats so slow. And then theres another ring, which yunlan immediately stop. Then he turns off his phone.

“Ah-Lan,” calls Shen Wei softly. Yunlan answer with a weak “Hm?” and he looks up to Shen Wei.

“If i recall, you haven’t visited your parent since… last time” He wanted to say after the battle but quite bothered by it. He knows Yunlan knew what he meant.

“Not you too..” Yunlan starts to grumble. His palm turns into fist. It’s clear he’s bothered with this conversation

“Ah-Lan..” Shen Wei reach Yunlan hands, caress the back of it a little and then tries to open the other’s fisted hand. He succeed. He then grabbed Yunlans palm, caressing it a little with his thumbs. 

“Ah-Lan–” 

“–Xiao Wei, don’t..” Yunlan don’t let him finish.

“They’re your parents” Shen Wei continues, not giving up. His tone is as soft as ever, though.

After their big battle, of course Zhao Xinci– As Zhao Yunlan father, who had quite a position on the ministry– knows what happened to his son. Not to the last detail of course, about his past, his godly power, etc. He only knew that his son battles one of the strongest evil entity, which threaten the safety of humanity, and his son and his team manage to stop eat. This news somehow reach Yunlan’s mother, though she knew less than his father. She just knew her son had done something dangerous again. She knew it’s the nature of her son’s job, but as a mother of course it worries her. 

To this, Zhao Yunlan calls them not long after the battle, assuring that everything is okay, he is okay, still alive, kicking, as happy as he ever be. But besides that, and some conversation about official matter regarding the recruitment’s mess a couple of months ago with his father, Zhao Yunlan didn’t really talk to his parents again. He didn’t visit their house. And he never starts a phone call or message, it’s mostly his mother that texted him first, asking how is he doing, and asking when will he visit them again, after quite a long time since the last.

But today, she text him again. Still demanding her son to come back home, to meet with them. Zhao Yunlan loves his mother, he do. Although he can’t easily say the same to his father, he could say that at least he acknowledge him as his father. But his mother… he knew why he doesn’t want to visit. She must knew how he thinks, she’s a smart woman, and his mother. Yet why do this? He knows his mother practically just want to make her husband and son to meet, to talk. But he don’t want to. Why force him?

“They don’t understand” Yunlan sighs hard.

‘They don’t understand, and just tried to shrug it off. That point alone is good enough reason not to visit them”

“They’re still your parents, Ah-Lan”

“Enou–! Enough… Shen Wei. Stop, before i get mad” Yunlan repress his anger. He knows he’s not really mad at his lover, he’s mad at his parents. But Shen Wei being like this didn’t help. Usually if he’s like this, his wei would just soothe him, telling him it’s okay, don’t worry, and caress him lovingly. But why, now?

“Just a short visit would be okay wouldn’t it? They’re worried about you. At least make them sure that you really are fine by showing up. Do it for me…” 

He knew it’s not his place to say anything. Yes they’re lovers, but so far… no acknowledgement from Yunlan’s parents. Not that they really need it, given their history. But he knows how important the bonds between Yunlan and his parents is for his lover. He don’t want Yunlan to regret anything, or worse, got hurt because of it.

“...Please?”

Yunlan stare at him in the eyes, full of conflict. 

“Alright, fine” Answers Yunlan finally.

“But you come with me. We’re going, together”

Shen Wei’s face darkens a little.“You know i can’t do that”

Shen Wei wanted his lover’s bond with his parents to mend. Him being there, not exactly helpful, won’’t it? As he, is one of the reason for the turmoil after all.

“Then i won’t go. End of discussion” Yunlan abruptly stands up, and gets away from the dinner table.

Shen Wei is a bit startled by his lover’s reaction. Sighing a little, he decided to clear up the table. Not long after he finishes washing the dishes. He looks at the time, he needs to go to work soon.

Shei Wei looked around the living room and didn’t find Yunlan. There’s only Da Qing. He saw him in the eyes. Then, Da Qing meows while turning his head to the direction of their room. Shen Wei nods, thanking him.

Standing just outside of their room, in front of the door, Shen Wei takes a deep breath. He knocks. “May i come in, Ah-Lan?”

After knocking again with no reply, Shen Wei decided to just come in “I’m going in,”

Inside, he found a big lump on their bed. Turns out Yunlan is curling up into a ball on the bed, covered by a thick blanket. Shen Wei smirks a little, feeling the scene in front of him is kinda funny and cute.

Shen Wei comes closer, sitting on the edge of the bed, caressing Yunlan, now a big ball. “Don’t you feel hot, covered with a blanket like that?” Ask Shen Wei lovingly. He can feel the big ball beside him shifts a little, but no answers can be heard. Maybe Yunlan is shaking his head? How stubborn.

“Ah-Lan,”

  No answers.

“Yunlan, i need to go to work” He changes how he calls his lover, hinting a bit that he is quite serious. But still no answer.

He scoops (?) big bulky balls in front of him and his hand roams a bit, trying to make out Yunlan’s body inside the blanket. After a while he found where his beloved’s head is. He leans in, and kiss Yunlan’s head that is covered by the blanket.

“I’m going, okay? There’s still a bit of time, sleep again for a bit. You have a rough day yesterday. Don’t forget to shower, okay? and wear a.. decent clothes” As he said the last words, Shen Wei fixes his glasses.

Still no reaction from Yunlan, Shen Wei decides to give him time to calm down, and then getting ready for work. After everything’s ready, he picks up his work bag, and heading out to the door.

“Then, i’m going”

As he turns to the door and opening their bedroom door, he hears rustling from the bed, and a small voice saying “careful”. He also hears a sound of gasp and deep breath. Looks like Yunlan is feeling hot and stuffy under those blankets, afterall. 

Without looking back to preserve his lover’s pride, Shen Wei smiles and answers “I will. You too be careful” then heads out.

Before going out, Shen Wei makes sure to talk to Da Qing. “I’m going to work then, Da Qing. Do look out Yunlan for me, will you? wake him up when it’s time, make sure he goes to work properly”

“No need to worry, i’ll drag him if i have to. You can trust me on that”

Shen Wei chuckles, imagining how a fat cat would actually drag a full-grown man. But he knows Da Qing meant what he said.

“Oh and, please call me if anything happens” add Shen Wei. Look how worried he is , think Da Qing.

Da Qing looks at him strangely, his face looks like “I’m a cat, remember?”

Shen Wei then pat him on the head, understanding what his cat friend mean. “through the others is okay, too” He said, wondering who said will drag Yunlan if he has to. And then, Shen Wei left for work.

About an hour after Shen Wei left, Da Qing slips into the bedroom, waking his sleepy-head master, by scratching and biting him. Not working, he then sits on top of Yunlan’s head, making him unable to breath and forced to wake up to throw Da Qing across the room. Well, he wish to, at least. Not long after that, He and Da Qing went for work too.

* * * 

Shen Wei had just finished his morning classes, and is in his office, grading some assignment he gave out some days ago, while waiting for his noon class to start. He can’t really concentrate on his grading though. He can concentrate well while teaching, but when alone, his guard is down a bit and he is a bit relaxed, making room to think something else. 

His argument with Yunlan this morning do bother him, of course. He thinks about how his reasoning is right. But he also thinks about what Yunlan said to him, what they’ve gone through (visiting his home the last time), his parents reaction, his parents attitude, all of that. Shen Wei takes of his glasses, pinching in between his nose and gets up. He decided to brew tea, calm himself while sitting down on his couch. Let’s make up a decision before the next class starts , He thinks inside.

* * *

At SID, Yunlan sits on the chair behind his work desk, reading some written report by his subordinates. “That’s… rare” whispers Lin Jing to Zhu Hong, whose desk is across his. Not that their Chief is such a lazy person, but he’s not that serious except when it needed to. Heck, even when it’s in such a serious situation, he sometimes still succeeded in cracking up some dry jokes. What Lin Jing meant, The Chief usually read reports on his attic, while lying on the couch there. Not on his desk. Zhu Hong just shrug her shoulder. “Who knows, don’t care” in a cold tone.

“Yeeshh, so cold. What date is it today, anyway?” Zhu Hong glares at him, like she wants to eat Lin Jing whole. “Don’t get mad, i’ll treat you with some fresh slice meat, how about it?” Zhu Hong needs regular monthly vacation. That’s the day on every month when she can’t really control her power and can’t maintain her humanoid form well. At this day, her snake treat can be seen manifests. She’ll crave raw meat, can’t stay in cold for long, etc.

“For your info, i’ve finished another level of cultivation. i can handle my power better now” Said Zhu Hong coldly.

“Don’t look like that, to me” Now, Lin Jing’s just asking for it. Zhu Hong starts picking things and throwing it towards Lin Jing. Now their office is noisy because of the two bickering. Well, more like Zhu slaughtering Jing.

It’s not that he didn’t want to spend his day on the attic like usual, but he hopes, maybe, if he actually work on his desk he can concentrate more and not thinking other things. Like, stuff from this morning. But now, forget thinking about it, he can’t even concentrate on his work. He gave up, and going to the attic. He decided to call the ministry regarding their last cases; not in the mood to read the reports. If he’s talking, he’ll be occupied with it and not thinking something else.

The day goes by, with no particular cases. It seems today is another peaceful day. The SID spending the day writing their reports and some other things. It’s finally time for the day shift to go home. Zhao Yunlan carelessly puts his subordinate’s report on top of his desk, before going home. Seeing their Chief going home, soon, the other follows.

Zhao Yunlan really wanted to go home, to hug and kiss Shen Wei, his Wei. They met everyday, but the distance made because of their argument this morning makes him miss Shen Wei so much. But he just.. can’t. Not without him solving his problems, and decides what will he do, first. He needs to be alone, he needs to think. Before he starts his car, he looks at Da Qing who’s curling on the passenger seat next to him. “Hey fat cat.. mind doing me some favor?”

Without moving his body, Da Qing just open one of his eye, looking at Yunlan. “I need to be alone. Yes, without you. And no, i will not be overdoing it, i know how Shen Wei will think about that. So, i’ll drop you on the house, and tell Shen Wei i’ll be a bit late today, yeah?”

Da Qing just meows. “That’s my favorite cat” Said Yunlan, smiling a little. After dropping Da Qing in front of their house, Yunlan speeds up for Downtown. He’s going to his favorite bar. A quite, small and classic bar. He’s good friend with the owner after he helps the owner on a case quite some time ago.

* * *

It’s almost 11, by the time Yunlan decided to finish his last drink and go home. He says thanks to the bar owner, pays up and then going out of the bar. Just as he reach the outside, he sees a figure standing by his car’s door.

Shen Wei  

Yunlan didn’t say, or more precisely can’t say anything. He’s just standing in front of the entrance to the bar. He looks at Shen Wei. Shen Wei looks at him, his brows is furrowed. “And how exactly are you going home, that drunk?”

Yunlan let’s out his iconic awkward laugh. Signs that he feels guilty, like he’s been busted. Well, it’s kind of true.

“How did you get here? Since when?” instead of answering, Yunlan ask Shen Wei. He then walks forward toward his car and his lover.

“Taxi, just now” said Shen Wei short. Yunlan is still tipsy because of the alcohol, he stumbles and is about to fall, but of course Shen Wei wouldn’t let it happen. He caught Yunlan with his body, now supporting him with his arm. “Let’s go home”

Yunlan is silent, not saying anything and just letting Shen Wei guide him to sit on the passenger seat. After making sure Yunlan is safe and tucked neatly on the seat, Shen Wei sits behind the steering wheel. They’re going home.

On the way home, the atmosphere is so quiet. The only sound that can be heard is Yunlan’s slightly heavy breathing because he’s drunk.

“Have you eaten?” ask Shen Wei suddenly, breaking the silence.

“Huh? Oh, eat. yeah, i have. I’ve eaten. I eat a little, before going to the bar”

“A little?” Shen Wei frowns,

“A lot! I eat a bowl of rice, and some side dishes. That’s just a figurative speech” said Yunlan quickly, not in the mood to be lectured by Shen Wei about how he should eat.

“Oh, okay. That’s good then” And, silence again.

After a long silence, Shen Wei decide to start a conversation.

“Yunla–” “–Shen Wei” turns out Yunlan also wanted to start a conversation too, that they speak at the same time. Because of that, both is silent again, Not sure who talks first.

“You first, Yunlan”

Being the shameless man he is, of course Yunlan welcome the opportunity he’s been given. “Great! thanks babe. I.. there’s something i want to say”

“First off, there’s a reason i went to the bar. You know that i’ve been visiting a bar way less than before after being with you. But.. but today, i need to be alone. I need to think. By myself, for myself, for us. So, yeah…”

“It’s okay, i understand Ah-Lan” Shen Wei looks to his side, looking at Yunlan, and smiles. Yunlan smiles too.

“So i.. after thinking about it, i’ve made my decision. About, you know, this morning. I’ve decided to visit my parents. You’re right. I need to visit them. I owe it, at least to my mother, to tell her that i’m okay. Not visiting them is just running away. So, i decided to confront it, by visiting them.” Yunlan takes a deep breath, before continuing,

“But i still want you to come. I mean, i know you’re uncomfortable, or anything else. But i need you there. We need to come together, not just me. So i can tell them clearly. I want to explain to them clearly about us. But.. but of course if it’s not an inconvenience. I mean, i totally get it if you don’t want–”

“–I do” Cuts Shen Wei.

“Yeah, you do…” 

“..You what?! for real?” Yunlan is shocked.

Shen Wei chuckles. “Yes i do, Ah-Lan. I want to come with you to your parents house. That’s what i want to say earlier. You see, i’ve been thinking, too. Like you.. i think that by me not visiting with you, may take things wrong instead. By avoiding things, it meant that i just run away from the trouble. But i do have a condition,”

“Condition? of course! anything for you, babe” says Yunlan quickly.  

“As you’ve said, we do this together. For us. Not just for you, nor for me. So, let me talk too, okay? I don’t want it to be only you who’s talking to your parents, like last time” Shen Wei referring to the time when they visit Yunlan’s home and Yunlan is coming out to his mother without telling him until they’re on their way back. 

Yunlan’s thinking. “How about it? That’s my condition” Ask Shen Wei, his tone is serious. 

“Okay, deal. But i do have one more condition, too” Yunlan said, his tone is back to his cheerful one.

Shen Wei’s arching his brows. “What is it?”

“Remember our plan to do some summer shopping? Let’s do it. Let’s go shopping after that. Whatever happens on my home, i want to have fun with you after that”

Shen Wei sigh in relief. “Okay, let’s do that” He smiles to Yunlan. At least it’s not an absurd condition.

Yunlan is smiling widely, and says a silent ‘Yes!’. 

* * *

About 20 minutes later, they arrived at their home. It didn’t took long before they’re inside the house. From the living room, you can see the dining room. Yunlan sees some food that has been wrapped on the dining table.

“Sorry i’m not home to eat your food, after you painstakingly made it”

“It’s not painstaking. It’s okay, i can heat it up for tomorrow, maybe breakfast” Shen Wei’s hand reach Yunlan’s head. He brush off a lock of hair on Yunlan’s forehead, before giving it a soft peck. And then he smiles for his Yunlan.

Yunlan smiles back for his Wei. His arm circles Shen Wei’s waist, pulling him closer, until there’s no distance between them. Yunlan leans closer, now their face are so close they can feel each other’s breath. He then proceed by kissing Shen Wei’s lips. At first, it’s only a short kiss on the lips. then he continues with longer and deeper kisses, crashing their lips againts each other. He bites Shen Wei’s lips, that makes him open his mouth in reflex.

Not wasting any time, Yunlan insert his tongue into Shen Wei’s mouth, now their tongue is dancing in pleasure. His hand is roaming on Wei’s body, feeling it. Shen Wei won’t just let Yunlan doing what he wants. He starts replying the kisses with the same intensity as his lover. Just like Yunlan, one of his warm is wrapped on the other’s waist. While his other arm just behind Yunlan’s neck. As Shen Wei deepens their kisses, he leans more to his Yunlan, making yunlan’s body bend to the back. Shen Wei supports the weight of Yunlan’s body, preventing them from falling on the floor.

This, resulting Yunlan in a ‘bad’ position. He can’t easily ‘fight back’. His body is in the mercy of Shen Wei. Now is Shen Wei’s turn to return the kisses. He ravishes Yunlan mouth with his. Licking and then biting his lower lip, sucking his tongue.

“Mmmhh.. aiyahh.. Shen W–”

Yunlan can’t finish his word as Shen Wei didn’t let him.

“Mmh, Ah-Lan, Your lips…. Tasty..” said Shen Wei in between their kisses. They continue like that for another 1-2 minutes, before breaking their kiss, gasping for air.

“Ah, hahah!” As they break the kiss, Zhao Yunlan let’s out his iconic small laugh again. For Shen Wei, it sounds weirdly sexy. Especially the way Yunlan looks when he laughs like that. His slanted lips and wide smile, he can’t get enough of that.

Yunlan, still dangling and bends backward supported by Shen Wei and his arms that wrap Shen Wei’s Neck ask “Make up sex?” with mischevious tone and smile. 

Hearing Yunlan’s offer, Shen Wei then lift up his lover back to his feet. “Nope,” Answers him, but with a smile.

“Wh– No??” Yunlan is shocked.

“After those kisses, you said No?” 

“Yes, my beloved Yunlan, No. We’re not having a make up sex, or whatever you name it. Now clean yourself and hurry go to bed” Says Shen Wei, using his finger to pinch Yunlan’s chin, he smiles softly. Then he heads to their bedroom, planning to change his clothes before sleeping.

“But why? Is it because of Da Qing? Oh yeah, where is he anyway?”

“Probably in my study, because i doubt he’s in our bedroom, and he’s not here in the living room”

“Well then, there’s no problem right? Let’s–”

“–not because of him. It’s your punishment for going out so late without telling me anything. You should reflect on that”

“Just because of that?” For his response, Yunlan earns a glare from Shen Wei. Ooops

Yunlan managed to catch and hold Shen Wei’s hand. “I’m veerryy sorry, Xiao Wei… you know why i did it right? I mean, yes, it’s my fault. Sorry i make you worry, so.. can we..?” Zhao Yunlan whimpers like a puppy, asking forgiveness from his master.

He receives a stern and firm “No.” from Shen Wei. 

Unbelievable . Yunlan rolls his eyes. He finally gives up, though. “I just can’t win from you, can i, Xiao Wei?” ask Yunlan rhetorically. Shen Wei just smirks at that response.

“Change your clothes, Yunlan. And let’s go to bed” At that, Yunlan just nods and comply.

After changing clothes and get cleaned up, they both go to bed. Though not getting a chance for steamy activity tonight, at least after they go to bed Shen Wei immediately kiss him good night, and cuddles him to sleep. Zhao Yunlan smiles happily as he drift off.

Chapter Text

The sun is rising, a brand new day starts. Shen Wei wakes up from his slumber, and opens his eyes. First thing he noticed is how his and Yunlan’s body tangled around each other. To make up for not giving what Yunlan wants last night, Shen Wei initiate wrapping his arm around Yunlan and cuddling him as they sleep, which usually initiated by Yunlan, so of course that gestures is welcomed by Yunlan very much. Unbeknown To Shen Wei, that is not quite enough for Yunlan. He needs more skinship and the hot summer night won’t be an obstacle. Hence, their situation now.

Using his free arm (The other is used by Yunlan as a pillow) to free himself, Shen Wei slowly get up from bed, afraid to wake the sleeping bear. He then proceed on preparing breakfast.

As he is heating up last night’s meal, Yunlan pops up in the kitchen. “We need to work on waking up together, Xiao Wei” And then he sits down.

Shen Wei starts arranging food on the table. “Good morning, Ah-Lan”. 

“I mean it. Stop making your husband search for his wifey who’s missing from bed first thing in the morning” Yunlan makes his point, feeling Shen Wei didn’t take this matter as serious as he is.

“We need to go to work,” so i need to prepare breakfast and waiting for you to wake up is not exactly a good idea if you want to show up for work on time . But Shen Wei didn’t continue his word, he is just giving Yunlan looks. By Now, both of them have sitten down. Shen Wei hands him chopstick to eat.

“Well you could wake me, give me kisses, or romantic.. wake up greeting? There are many option. Like, morning hubby , or rise and shine handsome , or early morning blo-”

“-I’ll try harder next time, then” Shen Wei cuts him, before he could say anymore inappropriate thing on the dining table. Shen Wei emphasize on harder , indicating that he did try to wake Yunlan, it’s just not an easy task.

“You better” and then they start eating their food.

“When will we visit your parents?” 

“How ‘bout tomorrow? It’s my day off. Isn’t it yours too?”

Shen Wei is taken aback. Well, yes the sooner is better but he didn’t exactly imagining this soon. “Yes, i do have tomorrow free.Tomorrow then?” He answers, thinking that it won’t make any difference, as they’ve had their resolution anyway.

“Tomorrow then,” said Yunlan, as he continue eating.

After finishing the meal and washing the dishes, it’s time for them to get ready for work. “Do you want to take a bath first?” 

“Nah, you go first. I’ll wash after you”

Shen Wei nods, and after he prepares food for Da Qing, he’s going to the bathroom and take a shower. Of course, he’s not forgetting to make up their bed. 

As he waits for Shen Wei to finish, Yunlan is slouching on the couch. No need to wait, he dozed off almost immediately. And the he got woken up because of heavy feeling on his chest, making it hard to breath. He opens his eyes only to get slapped by a fluffy tail.

“The hell… get off, fatty!” He rise up, forcing Da Qing to jump down to the floor.

“Hmph, you finally home, Human? Is Shen Wei that mad that you decided to sleep on the Sofa?” Said Da Qing with his usual i don’t care about your affair but i’m gonna say what’s on my mind anyway tone.

“Well for your information, you fat cat, Me and Shen Wei is close as ever, and we cuddle on our sleep. Thank you for your concern” 

“Wow, Shen Wei’s big heart is totally wasted on you” Da Qing eyes winces a little, trying not to imagine what Yunlan had just said.

“More like wasted on you ! He shouldn’t pamper you so much”

“Hmph.. just don’t make trouble so much. You should be more grateful for him. He truly don’t deserve such shameless person like you. Poor professor” Said Da Qing as he snorts, and heads to the kitchen to eat his meals.

Yunlan frowns. Feeling there’s more to what Da Qing had said than just a mere mockery. “Wait, what do you mean? why did you talk like that?” but Da Qing just ignores him and keep walking.

“Hey! Answer me you fat cat!” Yunlan catches up, and lift up Da Qing like he lifts up a baby by his armpit, with his two hands. Da Qing just hiss and gives him an angry look.

Yunlan sigh “Okay then. I’m very sorry for raising my voice, godly cat Da Qing, the king of cat, the most handsome of them all. The Human is so blessed by your godly presence. Dear Godly Cat Da Qing, is there something i have to know that you know?”

Da Qing just gives him a lazy look. But he do answer his master. “Do you know how worried the professor was, yesterday? I don’t get you two. You worry too much about each other but still did something to worry the other nevertheless. He must have said he just arrives at the bar just before you get out right? no need to answer, i can guess. Well guess what? As i arrived home after you kicked me out of the car-” He tries to emphasize that he still holds grudge because of that particular action “-The prof is already home. After i said that you want some time alone, he hurried making dinner, and immediately went to search for you. As far as i see what you two arguing about is so serious for him that he worries you’ll be reckless when alone” And the ne snorts.

“Wha- When did he went out?” 

“How should i know. a godly being like me who’s 5,000 years old is not bound by time, it’s so trivial” Yunlan just glares at him.

“Urgh fine… When did we get out of SID? at 5? and Considering The prof did finish his dinner prep first, i guess he went out at 6?”

What the hell…. So Shen Wei has been looking him for a long time? So he’s been at least looking for me, no, maybe actually waiting in front of the bar for more than 4 hours??”

“Why didn’t he tell me anything?”

“That’s your problem, not mine” Seeing Yunlan distracted, Da Qing wriggles out from his grip and jumps down. He’s hungry, for for god sakes!

Just after they finished their conversation, Shen Wei comes out from their bedroom. He walks closer to Yunlan. His hair is still a bit wet and messy after shower, he’s also not wearing his glasses. But damn he always looks hot after shower . Said Yunlan in his heart.

 “I heard some commotion. Who did you talk with? Is it Da Qing? Don’t tell me you’re making trouble again,” 

But Yunlan is not denying anything like usual, or talk balk while insulting Da Qing. He just stares at Shen Wei. “Yunlan? Is there something wrong?”

As Shen Wei ask, Yunlan took a step forward and they’re closer now. Then he quickly reach Shen Wei necks, pull their faces closer, and gives Shen Wei a deep, sweet kiss.

“I love you”

Shen Wei stares at him for a second, before pulling Yunlan face closer again, and replies the kiss with the same intensity as the last one. Shen Wei smiles, his thumb caressing Yunlan’s cheek and his thin sideburn. “I love you too,”

“Is there something wrong?”

Yunlan lets out a small laugh “Does it have to be something wrong for me to say i love you ? I’ll take my shower” He slide it off with a joke, didn’t want Shen Wei to be alarmed. 

“Okay then,”

As Yunlan heading for a shower, Shen Wei decided to clean the kitchen a bit. And then he sees Da Qing. “Oh, there you are Da Qing. I’m glad you finally come out of the study. Did something happen while i was in the bathroom?”

Da Qing just meows.

* * *

“Do you think i look… presentable ?”

“You look stunning , Shen Wei. Gorgeous”

“I need real, constructive opinion, Yunlan”

“What, you don’t believe in my words? You think i’m just uttering nonsense? I’m hurt”

Shen Wei frowns.

“Come on, Shen Wei. you’ve been choosing an outfit from before i went to take a shower. and now i’m out and even dressed. And judging by the piles of clothes on the bed, you’ve changed like dozens of time”

“It’s just my parents. I think you don’t have this problem when we’re about to go on a rendezvous” Yunlan let’s out a pouty tone.

“It’s because they’re your parents. What’s wrong with leaving a good impression?”

“Oh believe me . If my dad’s mind can change easily by changing clothes, i’ll look as scholarly like you right now. No need to worry, Shen Wei. Just stand beside me and you already look 100% better in my parents eye than their son.’”

“You’re perfect as you are” Shen Wei frowns again, not fond of the idea Yunlan slandering himself.

“You do , too.” Yunlan reach Shen Wei, his hand on both Shen Wei’s arm, just below his shoulder. He caress shen wei with his thumb, assuring him. And he didn’t forgot to give a quick peck on the lips, of course.

“Let’s just go, okay? Relax, you’re great, Shen Wei. My mother even compliments you the last time we’re there, remember?”

Shen Wei exhales, and finally deciding what to wear. Not long, they’re in the car on their way to Yunlan’s parent’s house.

* * *

Because it’s summer, Zhao Yunlan wears something light, a bit different than his usual leather jacket outfit, but still casual. He wears a white T-shirt, doubled with a denim shirt, both is short sleeved. And after being nagged by Shen Wei to at least dress better than he usually is, he choose a lightweight cream denim, that’s not ripped. But he still wears his light brown boots. In his left hand, his usual wrist watch that he uses for work. He always wears it even when not at work, as a habit. His hair is also combed a little neater than usual.

Shen Wei being Shen Wei, even after being told by Zhao Yunlan to just wear some casual clothes; still wearing formal clothes. Well, a least it’s not too formal that he wears his suits. Shen Wei wears a navy blue shirt, a bit darker than Yunlan’s. covered with his thin sweater vest, grey in color with some white linings. He wears an analog watch on his left hand, and a light grey trousers. Zhao Yunlan teases him by saying that Shen Wei could just old him if he wanted to wear matching clothes. That earns him a scolding.

“You sure you’re not burning in that?” Yunlan ask while driving, as he glances at Shen Wei, eyebrows raised. 

“No, I’m not. I’m fine, Yunlan”

There’s just an Okay from Yunlan with a little bit of uncertainty in it.

“What’s that on your lap, by the way?” pointing at a  big, red plastic bag on top of Shen Wei’s lap by tilting his hand. 

“Oh, this. Just a little something for your parents”

“That, didn’t look like a little. But okay, i trust you” He nods his head several times.

“Have you told your parents that we’re coming today?” 

“I wouldn’t. That bastard of a father would just find another excuse of not present in the house just to avoid us”

Shen Wei just nods, not really giving a comment on what Yunlan had just said. And then they speed up towards Yunlan’s parent’s house.

* * *

Her door bell is ringing. 

Zhao Shen Xi, who’s at that moment is busy in her kitchen, hurriedly walk towards their front door. On her way, she passed the livingroom where she sees her husband reading newspaper. “Dear, if you heard the bell, you should at least help me opening it! you know i’m busy in the kitchen” She protest, earning his husband scoff. She sigh, but still getting the door anyway. And after wiping her hands with her apron, Shen Xi opens her door, as she wonder who could it be, because she’s not really expecting anyone today.

She’s surprised, all right. That, at least she admit.

“Yunlan! you’re not.. saying you’ll come here, I miss you” Quite shocked, but neverthless happy that her son is back home. She opens her arm, hugging her beloved son, kissing his side of the head.

“I miss you too, Ma” Yunlan hugs his mom back. Shen Wei smiles looking at this, he feels happy for Yunlan.

“Really? And who’s not replying my message, not answering my call, and actually turning off his cellphone so i can’t call you, hmm? That’s definitely not my son, who says he missed me” Shen Xi said, now her tone is cold and intimidating. But she said this with such a sweet smile, which is.. more terrifying. 

“Aahh..Haha..” Zhao Yunlan let’s out an awkward laugh. Kinda like squeaking though

“Aaahh, Ma, i’m not alone! I’m with Shen Wei. And.. and he brought something, too! Shen Wei, come here,” In defense, He drags Shen Wei forward, a little bit pushing him, right in front of his mom.

“Aah.. uhm!” Shen Wei clears his throat, perplexed at this sudden sacrifice. “It is Nice meeting you again, Mrs.Zhao. This is a little something from.. us. We hope Both you and Mr.Zhao will like it. Sorry for the trouble, last time” Shen Wei hands his gift to Shen Xi, and then proceeds to fix his glasses. He feels that he’s going to die of embarrassment sooner or later if he didn’t do that.

“Oh, my! Nice meeting you too, Shen Wei” Shen Wei realize a little bit of change on Shen Xi’s tone, too subtle to notice, but then it’s back to normal again. Probably Yunlan realize this too. He choose not to think about it too deeply.

“I’m pretty sure my son wouldn’t even think about getting present for his parents by himself, though”

“Ma! stop bringing down your own son to shame..”

“Ahahah! But it’s true isn’t it, sweety? you know i wouldn’t lie. But really, thank you very much, Shen Wei, i really appreciate it”

“The pleasure’s mine, Mrs.Zhao” Shen Wei smiles.

“Now, now. It’s rude for the neighbour if we keep talking in front of the door like this, isn’t it? Let’s go in, both of you” Both Yunlan and Shen Wei nods, and follow Shen Xi inside. Zhao Yunlan closes the doors behind them.

“You’re not bringing Da Qing?” Shen Xi ask as they walk through the corridor.

“No.. not today. He’s at Old Li’s place. We’re… we kinda have something to say, so we didn’t bring him” 

“Oh, okay. I miss him… such a goofy furball”

“More like annoying furball”  Zhao Yunlan snorts, not too loud, so his mom wouldn’t hear it. But Shen wei did, so he got pinched on his side. He can only let out a weak ouch.

“Well if you have something to talk about, we’re listening. Your father’s in the living room. Greet him first, then sits down. I’ll bring some tea and snacks later, and join you guys”

And then they’ve arrived on the living room. “Dear, Yunlan is here. And he brings Shen Wei too. They said they wanted talk” To this, Zhao Xin Chi didn’t budge from his seat. He just lowers his papers a little, glancing at the three of them, just a quick glance (or staring) and then back to his paper. Shen Wei can feel Yunlan is about to snap just from those interaction alone.

“Go on, greet him. I’ll be in the kitchen. Be good, okay?” and then Shen Xi left.

With not much of choice, and discontent growl that he painstakingly held, Yunlan takes some steps forward. “Ah ah! So nice meeting you, dear father. Your lovely son is here to meet you. Don’t you want to at least glare at me for a long time or something? You can’t do that while buried in the newspaper” Of course. Of course Zhao Yunlan would choose this road. He is as hard headed as his father to just back down and choose to confront his father. So much for trying to look like an obedient son. Shen Wei sighs in his heart. Without even waiting for his father’s response, Zhao Yunlan throws himself in the couch right across his father.

Zhao Xin Chi eventually lowers his newspaper, fold him and throws it to the table in front of him. Shen Wei use this chance to greet him. “It’s very nice meeting you again, Mr.Zhao. It’s been quite some time since we’ve last met. Are you healthy, sir?” Shen Wei bows, then greets him, and starts a bit of small talk to test the waters. But even though it’s not that, from the start he is a very polite person. Zhao Xin Chi looks at him, and then gestures for him to sit down with his head and eyes. Well, it’s worth to try. Shen Wei proceeds to sit down.

Zhao XinCi crosses his leg, his back is not straightened. He looks at two people infront of them with no interest whatsoever. Or maybe they just think too much. That’s Zhao XinCi’s usual face. But how he sits, is not like someone who looks forward to hear anything labelled ‘important’ by the other men. Yep, as of now, the atmosphere couldn’t get more awry. Or not. 

“I see you’re still able to run the SID well.. considering..” Zhao Xin Chi gives Yunlan a stare “how you and your.. people” 

“Yes i am, and it’s all thanks to my subordinates , they’re all a very capable bunch, despite everything you think badly about them. Thank you for the compliment” Yunlan just snorts. He’s pissed, but somehow held it in better. Shen Wei is proud.

“I suppose so. Good work” Said Zhao Xin Chi again. No one knows whether he genuinely complimenting Yunlan or not, but Shen Wei thinks at least it’s not just an empty talk.

“Da Qing’s not with you? I thought he always trails behind you,” a bit indicating that Da Qing shouldn’t have him going anywhere alone. His job is, of course to look after Zhao Yunlan. 

“Wh-No! why does everybody ask for him? and for your information, please implement this on those complicated brain of yours, dad. Da Qing has his own life, he’s not required to look after me 24/7. He can do whatever he wants, and i do too. Besides, i have Shen Wei to take care of me, and he’s way better at it than Da Qing does-not underestimating him in anyway-So you don’t have to be fussy about it. I’m okay if that’s what you want to ask” Zhao Xin Chi’s brows twitch a little hearing Yunlan’s word, but he said nothing.

“Yunlan..” Shen Wei whisper beside him. Yunlan didn’t say anything. “you can do this,” Shen Wei gives him a soft smile. Yunlan just sigh, glancing at Shen Wei. After inhaling a deep breath, he continues,

“Dad, i- i have something i wanted to talk ab-”

“How’s the recruitment process? i heard you decided to take in two intern? who are they, and when will they go to work?” Xin Chi cuts his son’s word.

“For god sakes! Dad! Why are you so-” With rage, Yunlan raise from his seat, to feel tired of all this, after he sees just how his father is so unfazed by all this. He slumps down almost immediately, elbow on his knee, palm turns into fist, head rested on those fist. He exhales, long. Come on, Zhao Yunlan! you can’t show your weakness in front of HIM. Just no. Deal it like you’ve always been. Calm down, you can do this. for Shen Wei, for us. Zhao Yunlan reassures himself and smiles without looking up or to his side. He just know that Shen Wei is worried about him. But of course He choose to stay silent. Shen Wei knows. Shen Wei always understands him. Why the hell his own blood father cannot.

“We have two new ones. Going in next month. I don’t even know why you even ask this, while you definitely had checked all info about them, and all reports regarding their employment” Zhao Yunlan finally decides to not care about anything. He looks straight to his father’s eye as he answers. Fuck it . His father wants to taunt him? let’s entertain him for a while, if that’s what he wants.

For a while, Zhao Yunlan and his father is silent, just staring- or maybe glaring- to each other. Shen Wei decides it’s best to leave them alone for a while. He lets out a little cough, and stands up.

”I’ll- It probably best for me to leave for a while. I’m sure the both of you have a lot to talk about, after a long time. Yunlan, I’ll check the kitchen and help Mrs.Zhao with anything she needs, okay?” Yunlan nods. Zhao Xin Chi- Well, he is what he is.

“Then, I’ll go. Please excuse me” Shen Wei bows, then left, leaving both of them. Let’s hope he can help something in the kitchen, and by the time they got back, Yunlan haven’t done anything… dangerous. No, no.. what even is he thinking. Shen Wei shudders by his own thought. Let’s just be helpful.

“Excuse me.. Mrs.Zhao?” Shen Wei arrived on the kitchen. At the time Shen Xi looks like she’s very occupied with her work on the kitchen. But she heard Shen Wei, and she lift her head.

“Oh my, is it you, Shen Wei? Were you not in the living room?”

“I was wondering if i could be of help for you, Mrs.Zhao”

“You don’t need to worry about that, You’re the guest! it’s okay Shen Wei, i could handle this. What about my husband and son?”

“Ah, they are.. talking, i suppose. I wouldn’t want to disturb father and son’s conversation”

Shen Xi seems to grasp the situation. “Well in that case.. i guess a little help would be wonderful” She smiles to Shen Wei.

“It would be my pleasure to do so, Mrs.Zhao” Shen Wei steps closer to the kitchen counter, and starts rolling himself. “What would you like for me to do?”

“Aaah~ thanks to the sudden visit, my work actually got interrupted- Oh no, Shen Wei, it’s not your fault, it’s okay! i know it must be Yunlan’s idea to come like that. Thankfully i was just cooking a little snack, and it can actually be served for now! it’s a good coincidence. So, Shen Wei, as i am going to prepare the snacks, would you mind preparing the tea?”

Shen Wei nods, and after being told where the tea is and the other utensil to make it, Shen Wei starts to help Zhao Shen Xi prepares the snack and tea.

* * *

About 15 minutes after Shen Wei left father and son in the living room, him and Zhao Shen Xi finished preparing the snacks, and heading to the living room. Shen Xi brings a tray with snacks while Shen Wei with tea. As they arrived, however, the situation is not any better than before he left. It can be seen that father and son are still glaring at each other. Who knows what they’ve been talking about.

As She walks in, Shen Xi breaks off the silence. “Are you two doing glaring contest or what? So who’s the winner?” And just nonchalantly sets the plates on the table between them. Though not saying anything, Shen Wei follows the examples and sets the tea too. As they finished, they sit besides each other’s partners. 

As everyone settles, the room filled with a very eerie awkward silence. No one talks, and it seems nobody wanted to start a conversation. Even Shen Xi, who can joke and try to lessen the pressure before didn’t say anything. Seems like she awaits her husband to speak. Shen Wei, too, feels like it’s not his place to talk first. It feels like there’s still a heavy tension between Zhao Yunlan and his father, and he let it wears down first. 

After a seemingly long silence, Zhao Yunlan decided to break the ice first. “Dad, Mom, i want to talk. We,” As he glances towards Shen Wei “Want to talk to you. Like, serious-serious”

Zhao Xin Chi looks at his son “And why would i want to talk to unfilial son who didn’t even reply to his mother’s message and hangs up his phone? And now, you suddenly here, feeling like you can do whatever you wanted”

Zhao Yunlan knows this is going to be mentioned, but he does not falter “Come on, dad. Don’t talk like you don’t know me. It’s not like this is the first time i’ve done this. Since when have i been a filial son? Let me guess, never? Cause it seems like from the start i‘ve always been unfilial for your taste. And i decided we should come here without notice ‘cause i know someone would be such a coward, turning a blind eye, running away , when his son is trying to introduce his lover to his parents!” The more he talk, it seems harder to hold his rage. He huffed, and try to calm down.

Zhao Shen Xi seems to be a bit taken aback with her son’s direct confrontation, but said nothing. After all, they already know. Their son have told them about his relationship. Zhao Xin Chi twitch his eyebrows, definitely his son words show some effect and it seems like he wanted to protest, but decided to say nothing. 

Now, back to glaring contest. 

“Mr. and Mrs.Zhao, i would like to introduce myself again, i am Shen Wei,” Shen Wei decided it is time for him to say something. “I’m very sorry if i’m impolite, and maybe too forward.” Shen Wei inhales. His voice is calm and collected, like he usually is. But inside he’s nervous. Not like when he’s with Yunlan, not like when he tries to keep his identities from him, his secrets, before. It’s a very foreign feeling of nervousness. It’s the first time he felt it. But he continues his talk anyway.

“We are sorry to have come here unannounced, and be an inconvenience for the two of you, but we both think that, by doing this, we can see both of you at the same time. And it is of importance, that we see both of you, to let you know what we wanted to say,”

Good, at least it seems like both Yunlan parents still listening.

“As you’ve probably heard from Yunlan, me-and him, us , we’re seeing each other.” Now, what do i want to say? It seems so hard to find the word he wanted to say.

“What i mean is, we are lovers. We are a couple. I’ve heard that Yunlan have told you a bit about this matters. But we feels like we needed to explain a bit more, to make things-clear. What we wanted to say is that, Be it Zhao Yunlan, or myself, we are serious about this. And we- As Zhao Yunlan’s parents, we wanted to let the two of you know that. And if-” 

“Professor Shen, right? I’ve heard from my wife, that you are a professor.” Zhao Xin Chi didn’t let Shen Wei finish. Either he is not patient, or he knows what’s the next thing Shen Wei about to say, and cuts it because he didn’t want to hear it. most probably the latter.

“Ah, yes. I am a professor” Shen Wei respond.

“Great, what a noble profession” Shen Wei didn’t take that as a compliment.

“So, i’ll call you with that honorific from now on, if you’ll let me” Shen Wei just smiles and nods.

“I’ve heard, from his mother, and Zhao Yunlan himself. About-  the two of you. And whatever.. relationship that you speak of”

Zhao Yunlan shift a bit, he’s feeling restless. Very restless. Shen Wei gives him a reassuring looks.

“But i thinks i’ve said what i think about this matter clearly to Zhao Yunlan. Has he not told you yet?” Shen Wei’s questioning look didn’t escape Zhao Xin Chi’s eyes. He smiles.

“Well, let me repeat it myself, then. I said to my son, that what the two of you have for each other, those -affection- will not last. I said to him, what the two of you is going through together, is just temporary. At most, a fling. I’ve heard that somehow the two of you got tangled with each other on Yunlan’s cases, right? All the more reason to doubt this-phenomenon. It could be you mistaken all the adrenaline rush to be something that is not true. You think you have feeling for each other and need each other, but it’s just that somehow you found comfort, compassion from each other while going through a distressing ordeal”

“Say, Professor Shen, you are a scholar, right? I’m sure you are a very smart person. Do you think you and my son truly have a chance? You both didn’t have the same character. Except your gender, the two of you are very different. So tell me, Professor, are you really sure you can make it through together, in this world, where many people will be against you two together? I’m sure you quite know my son, professor. It’s not the first time he’s been fooling around. Most of the time it is to show his rebellion towards me. Some are just him venting his frustration, or even worse to get through his boredom and loneliness. What makes you think you are not one-”

“DON’T YOU DARE SAY ANOTHER WORD!!” 

“Zhao Yunlan!”

Zhao Yunlan already standing, his face full of rage, his hand pointing towards Zhao Xin Chi. He’s very sure he’s about to strangle the bastard in front of him if not for the hand that’s been gripping his wrist, trying to calm him down. As he is  standing in rage, trying to at least incapacitate his own bastard of a father on spot, Shen Wei has been quick in holding himself. He grips Yunlan’s wrist, not letting him doing anything more than standing there and pointing his father.

“Why are you mad? Tell me what i said that’s wrong, Zhao Yunlan” His father gaze is sharp as always. A gaze that shows he means what he said, and not regretting whatever have come out from his mouth. A gaze Yunlan hate so much he wanted to puke.

“I said, not another word from you, father. Don’t you dare mock Shen Wei in front of me. Don’t you dare tell me what’s right or wrong for me. Don’t you dare, when you don’t even know anything!! Not even an ounce of who i am, or how i feel”

“But i do know you, Zhao Yunlan. You’re just throwing tantrum know. And it is a fact that the you two will never last”

BAM!!

Zhao Yunlan slams the table in front of him with both his palm. He is still standing, his back bends forward, supported by his stretched hand that’s now on the table. His Head drops, no one can see his face. Zhao Yunlan can’t take it anymore. He’s mad, he’s angry. His body is full of rage. But he is.. tired. His body and heart can’t take it anymore. His brain is hurting trying to be patient, to understand his father. To know the reason why he even said those things about his own son. He’s just… tired. He don’t know what to do. to vent all his anger, his sadness, his confusion. At that time, he just snaps.

He starts laughing. At start, it’s only a small non-coherent laugh. A scoff, at least. Then it become louder, till he starts laughing loudly, hysterical. His laugh felt evil, but full of sadness. 

Shen Wei is very worried about him, but he didn’t do anything. He lets Yunlan be. He knows he is breaking down. And he’s mad at himself for not being able to comfort Yunlan then and there, to just not care about their parents and drag Yunlan out of there, to soothe Yunlan out from his misery. But he can’t do that. And he’s mad to himself because he can’t force it to happen. He’s blaming himself to urge Yunlan to come here. He’s blaming himself because he makes Yunlan obligated to see his parent, to explain to his parents about their relationship. If not for his fussing, Yunlan would not hurt like this, like now. He just hold his feelings, his palm fisting, his knuckles is very white, and his palm almost bleed because of the pressure.

At some point, Yunlan stops. He sighs hard. His head is still down, but one hand is lifted from the table, he put his palm over his face. The other still supporting his body and weight. He wipes his face. “You know what… i don’t even know what the hell am i doing here” 

“If not.. if not for Shen Wei asking me, if not for Shen Wei telling me how worried you two are, how i should show some courtesy as your son, to understand the both of you.. i wouldn’t even be here. And even after all this…. you just have to be so understanding ” He laughs again.

“At this point i don’t even get myself for not disowning myself from this family by now. If this is even what you call family” He lift his head. He’s smiling, looking his father who’s expressionless as always, even after seeing his own son like that. And then he sees his mother who seems a bit shocked to heard his declaration about not wanting to be a part of her family. But he didn’t care. His mother didn’t even try to stop his father while he clearly hurting her son. He just don’t care about anything anymore.

“I’m.. i’m tired. I don’t care. I’m done. I just want this whole absurdity to be fucking over” Then, he finally lift his body up. Not even sparing his parent another glace, he gets out of the room, and out of the house.

Shen Wei stands up, and bows deeply “We’re very sorry, Mr.Zhao, Mrs.Zhao. I’m sure he’s just feeling conflicted right now. I’m very sure he didn’t mean-”

“I don’t need you to tell me about my own son, Professor Shen.”

Shen Wei lift his body, looking at Zhao Xin Chi. He bows his head a little, smiling and showing a face of guilt. But he didn’t feel anything when he said his words. He didn’t even mean what he said. “I am very sorry, Mr. Zhao. It is unbecoming of me. It seems like i’ve overstepped my boundaries. We’re sorry for our intrusion. I bid you farewell, and hope for your health. Please excuse me” As he said that, Shen Wei excuses himself and gets out of the house. 

When he has reached their car, he sees Yunlan sitting on the front passenger seat. Shen Wei opens the door and sits on the driver seat. He sees Yunlan drops his head, his body leaning on the door. One hand crossed over his chest, the other supporting his head, elbow on the door side and the palm covers his face. 

Shen Wei didn’t say anything, and start the car’s engine. When they’re out of the neighborhood, Shen Wei opens his mouth. “I’m sor-”

“Don’t. It’s not even your fault”

“But-”

“-No. It is my own decision, Shen Wei. And if you’re bothered because of what i said back there, stop. Whatever you said to me, if i decided to not do it, i won’t. I’m right here because i decided to do so. Whatever happens back there is not your fault, and you don’t have to worry or feeling guilty about it.”

Shen Wei smiles “I’m glad, then” He said, even though he’s still a bit disturbed. But Yunlan have said what he thinks, and worrying about it more would just make Yunlan mad.

“If anything, i’m the one who should say sorry to you. He- He doesn’t have to say all those things to you, about you”

“I’m okay, Yunlan. It’s okay”

“Well you shouldn’t be! aarrgghh… should have made the fucking med-bowl to at least alter his memories and make him accept us. That would’ve made it easier. I let him go too soon, i feel like i’m an idiot”

Shen Wei laugh softly. He reach Yunlan shoulder and pat it with one of his hand. “I’m also sorry before. I think i gripped you too hard. Does it hurt?”

“Nah, it’s okay. I’m fine. My father should thank you . If not for you holding me, who knows where he would end up. But i think i need you gripping like that while in bed,” Yunlan smirks, teasing. Shen Wei soffs, he fixes his glasses and back to concentrating on the road.

“So.. back home?” Ask Shen Wei after a while.

“Hell no! You promised, Shen Wei”

“Are you sure?”

“100%! If anything, we need a fucking refresher right about now. And going shopping sounds about right. That’s the deal right?”

“Okay then, let’s go shopping” Shen Wei smiles, and he drives towards the shopping district.

“Yes, a date!” Said Zhao Yunlan, sound happier than he is before.

* * *

About half an hour later, they arrived on the shopping district. Here, there are various shop. Starting from clothing and accessories, to even home appliances store. There are also some cafe and family restaurants, and a few food stalls by the roadside. Shen Wei parks the car, and both of them got off. 

“Where should we go first?” Shen Wei ask, maybe Yunlan have a preference or something.

“Well, there is something that me must do first” Yunlan said, his finger caressing his beard. His eyes are leering at Shen Wei from head to toe.

“What? What is it? is there something wrong?” Shen Wei’s a bit confused by Yunlan’s gaze.

“Come, follow me” He answers, as he turns his body and walk quickly, searching for something. Before Shen Wei could ask more, Yunlan is already walking away from him. He can only follow Yunlan to wherever he’s going.

“You know.. if you wanted to go to the restroom, you could just told me, and not walk away like that” Shen Wei said, fixing his glasses. They’re in front of the public toilet. “But i’m not the one who needs to go. You do”. Shen Wei frowns “I don’t follow”

“Come on,” Before Shen Wei could protest, he’s been dragged inside by Yunlan, who’s holding his wrist. Not even have time to struggle, somehow he’s find himself shoved into one of the stalls, and Yunlan also got in with him. “Yunlan, what are you..?”

“We’re going on a date, babe. We’re shopping together. In the Summer. I’m not going with you looking like.. this . You need to loosen up a bit, be casual.” 

“What’s wrong with looking-”

“ Everything . Now move your hand. We need to remove the sweater vest first.”

“Well.. you could’ve just told me. We don’t need to be… cramped in here. Other people will think that we’re doing… something inappropriate” Yunlan laughs.

“Come on, Shen Wei. Is it so hard to say the word ‘fooling around’? And no, i don’t trust you. I’ll do the make over myself till i’m satisfied. And why do i have to care about what other people thinks”

But i do care what other people think . Shen Wei sighs in defeat. He’s not trying to struggle anymore, and figures that the faster this is over, the better. Yunlan starts to temper with his clothing and hair. Yunlan took of his sweater vest and his garters. He also ruffles up his hair, making it not as neat as before. “Done, that’s better.” Yunlan smiles in satisfaction, admiring his work. Now let's go on that shopping date, shall we?”

The both of them comes out of the stall, to find one surprised man that looks at them as they come out. He looks younger than both of them, probably the same age as Xiao Guo. He looked nervous. When their eyes met, he quickly looks away. Zhao Yunlan couldn’t careless, but decided to tease the young man. “What, never seen two guys fooling around, kid?” They can see the kid’s ear flush.

“Zhao Yunlan!” Scold Shen Wei, and then they dragged him out of the public toilet, just like how Yunlan dragged him in. Zhao Yunlan just laugh. Out in the open, bright from the sun, and not by dimmed lighting of Public Toilet, you can see Shen Wei clearly. He’s not wearing his sweater vest and his arm is not bound by his sleeve garters anymore. His shirt is not tucked into his trousers anymore, and thank god for ShenWei neatness, even though it’s been inside his pants, it’s not wrinkled in anyway. His sleeves, is folded showing his arm until just below the elbow.

Yunlan also removes his analog wristwatch. Yunlan somehow able to stash a wallet chain without Shen Wei knowing, and put it on Shen Wei’s trousers. His hair, now not as neat as before, looks refreshing, after being ruffled by Yunlan. Even though it didn’t look like neatly combed like before, that doesn’t  mean it look disheveled. It looks nice, even. Right now, rather than a university Professor, Shen Wei looked like a model straight out from a magazine. He looks stunning, even with his glasses, which, Yunlan unable to get rid of. 

Yunlan looks at his lover, and whistles. “My wifey sure is beautiful. I’m such a great artist. You’re my masterpiece” He grins widely.

Shen Wei feels his face flushing, hearing Yunlan words. “Let’s just go” Pushing Yunlan forward, not letting him say anything anymore. After putting some of Shen Wei’s clothes on the car, They proceed to the clothing store. After buying each other clothes, looking around, buying street food, and stops at a cafe, they decided to go home.

Chapter Text

He stands just outside the door. His mind seems conflicted. His brows creased, his mind contemplating on something. He feels burdened because he didn’t tell his lover he’ll come here, again. Just two days after their last visit, but now he is alone. But he needs to do this. He may be wrong, but he knows he have to do this. As he sigh, heads down, his minds goes back to his lover’s words, to their conversation, in one of the bathroom stall of public restroom on the shopping district.

* * *

“Shen Wei,” Yunlan says, his hand is still busy ‘fixing’ Shen Wei’s attire that’s not flattering him on their summer shopping date. “I’m okay, you know” He looks up, and flashes a smile. “I’m sorry?” Shen Wei definitely didn’t expect Zhao Yunlan to say that, and is quite taken aback by his word. “I know that look you gave me. The entire time we’re on the car. You don’t say anything, but i know. I.. I’m happy that you care for me, but really. No need to worry Shen Wei. I’m okay” 

“I…” Shen Wei is at loss of words.

“It’s all over your face,” Zhao Yunlan huffed. “You’re worried about what had happened back there. You’re worried about how i feel right now, and you’re worried about what we should do next, or what would happen in the future”

Shen Wei didn’t say anything.

“You know.. for all that have happened, my mind is pretty clear right now. And my heart feels light. All those thing i said back there, i mean it,” Yunlan pauses, either collecting his thought, or because he’s concentrating on combing Shen Wei’s hair with his fingers, and deciding which style’s the best.

“Screw it, who cares?” Yunlan laughs. “Who cares whether we’re accepted or acknowledged by my parents, or even anyone in that matter. After all we’ve been through, after all you- and me- fought for us. After fucking millenniums, you finally found me, we found each other. We’ve been through lots. We don’t need to go through more, right? I have you, and that’s what matters. To hell with my parents or anyone’s feelings. I don’t care. And you should not, too. So it’s okay, Shen Wei. You don’t need to worry about me. Stop looking at me like i’m about to break, and you’re about to break because looking at me like that. I can live without all those things, as long as i have you. Now, stop frowning. It’s damaging your good looks” Yunlan presses his index finger on top of Shen Wei’s frowns, forcing him to relax.

“You still need to eat you know. Just me is not enough. You need to rest, to-”

“Okay, okay, Professor. I get it! I get it, i need to eat and rest too,” Zhao Yunlan laughs, cutting Shen Wei’s words. Seeing him, Shen Wei also lets out a little laugh.

“Now… i think that’s all from me. Hhhmmm.. let’s take a good look once more.. why are you looking at me like that?”

Shen Wei huffed “Nothing, just.. I never think we’ll be having these kind of conversation in a public stall”

“Well… the closer we are, the better right? When we’re intimate like this, it’s easier for you to say yes to what i said” Yunlan grins.

“We’re definitely not doing something intimate here.. and will not” Shen Wei disagrees. They’re just.. fixing his attire, right? and having some.. conversation. Nothing more.

“Yeah yeah, whatever you said, my lovely professor. Now, You’re ready to be presented to the world! let’s go!” Not long after, they’re out of the Public restroom, just after Yunlan manage to embarrass Shen Wei and a stranger young man.

* * *

As he remember Yunlan’s word, Shen Wei looks down to his shoes. He also remembers How Yunlan looked like when they go around the shopping district. How he looked like when they went around shops and stalls, and then he thinks for himself.

But Yunlan, after you said all those thing, why did you look like that? As we are going through the shopping district, we were smiling, and laughing as we are choosing clothes for each other. We’re chatting happily as we are walking around the street, buying street foods and all of that. But your smile is fake. You told me not to worry and not to care, but are you really not? I can see you strain your laugh. How sometimes you winces when you smile like there’s something bugging your mind, making you flustered. I know you tried hard to smile with me that day. You said we don’t need your parents or anybody’s approval, and that it is not important. But it does, isn’t it? At least your parent. You are, hoping your birth parents to understand your choices. You are hurt that they didn’t. Isn’t it so? Otherwise you would not look like that, right, Yunlan? 

Shen Wei lets out a long sigh again, as he ask question in his mind that he knows he will not get the answer for. He looks up, straight to the door. He steels himself, reassuring. Then he pushes the button of the doorbells. The Bell rings, and a moment later - which in Shen Wei’s opinion, not long enough - the door was opened by Shen Xi, that bore a look like she truly didn’t expect the one that standing in front of her to visit her house. Of course .

* * *

“Please sit down. Wait a bit while i make us some tea, yeah?” Shen Xi offers her guest.

“Ah, no need to trouble yourself, Mrs.Zhao. I am fine” Shen Wei refuses politely, genuinely feels bad for making her tend to him. 

“Are you telling me to be discourteous towards my own guest?” Shen Xi gives Shen Wei a smile, the same one she gives to Yunlan two days ago.

“..It would be a pleasure to be served delicious tea from you, Mrs.Zhao” Answer Shen Wei as he smiles, didn’t want to imagine what would happen if he were to refuse again.

“The pleasure’s mine, Shen Wei”

Shen Wei relax his back to the couch, sighing again. It’s not even ten minutes in and he had sighed as much as when Yunlan makes trouble. He starts to rethink if his decision to come here a bad one, from different reason than the last. 

A while later, Shen Xi comes back with a tray of tea, and some light snacks to go along. “Do enjoy, Shen Wei”

Shen Wei thanks her before taking his cup and drinks from it, taking a sip. As he taste the tea, he notices something. “This..” He looked up to meet Shen Xi’s eyes, wanting to ask but can’t seem to find a word for it. Shen Xi who meets his eyes, just smiles fondly to him. Shen Wei acknowledge it, and smiles too, a smile of gratitude. He feels calmer now, with a bit more confidence than before. As Shen Xi puts down her cup, Shen Wei did too. 

“I’m very sorry, Mrs.Zhao. For.. for coming here unannounced-again, and disturb you like this”

“Oh my, Shen Wei! Don’t look like that, you make me feels bad. I admit i am quite surprised to found you in front of the door as i open it, not even a week after the last. But for one, this old lady is happy to be visited, rather than spending the rest of the day alone, waiting for my husband to come home from work. What’s more, you are Yunlan’s friend, how could i even feel bothered. I’m always happy to meet someone who’s close to my Yunlan”

Friend. My Yunlan. Shen Wei smiles weakly at that.

“Thank you, Mrs.Zhao. I’m very happy for your consideration. It seems that i owe you a lot”

“Oh, stop that. I’m happy that you visit me. That’s what matters,” it sounds sincere, and Shen Wei think whether he should be happy for that fact or not. He appreciate the sentiment, though.

 “So, what actually brings you here, Shen Wei. And you didn’t bring Zhao Yunlan with you?” She said as though every time Zhao Yunlan is here or keep in touch is partially because of Shen Wei. Well she’s true in that. Even the last time happened because of Shen Wei’s pestering.

“Ah.. i-no, i-i don’t come here with Zhao Yunlan. He has some work to do, and-”

“And i didn’t tell him that i went to visit here” Shen Wei looks very guilty, that he lowers his head. He truly don’t want to do something behind Yunlan’s back, but it’s just that there’s no other way. At least that’s what he thought. Maybe telling the truth is his unconscious way of lessening the guilt. He himself wonders.

“Don’t worry too much, Shen Wei. I’m sure if it’s you, he’ll understand whatever reason you have for coming here without telling him first,” At Shen Xi’s word, Shen Wei jerks his head up, surprised. 

“So, is there something i might be able to do to help you, Shen Wei?” Without changing her tone, Shen Xi ask the man in front of her again.

Shen Wei is the renowned Ghost Slayer. He had met near death countless of times. Encountered many enemies, killed almost all of them. Had met many beings, gods, way stronger and can end his life in mere seconds. But except when it concerns Kun Lun- Zhao Yunlan, and his well-being, he had never, would never break a sweat. Now though, He wants to laugh to himself, after finally feeling what Zhao Yunlan had gone through all his life. A Terrifying being called mother. 

Not that Shen Wei never encounters a mother, per-se. He had known Nu Wa, the mother of all humans! But not in this kind of manner. A mother, a protective one, a loving one, a strong one, a mother for his son. It’s like he’s a helpless bunny in front of a watching eagle. He can’t lie to this woman. It’s not even Shen Wei’s intention to lie, but the point stands. 

Shen Xi is a smart and strong woman. Moreover, she used to be a scholar., He had been told so by Zhao Yunlan and Da Qing in various occasion. Shen Wei finally understand. Zhao Yunlan receives his reckless, head-strong and stubborn, a rough-around-the edges personality from Zhao Xin Chi. But his wits, evelly cunning personality, and smart head was inherited from his mother. Just from this bit of conversation alone, Shen Wei can feel that she can know everything if she wanted to. That’s why, rather than beating around the bushes, Shen Wei decide to be straightforward. 

For Yunlan. For Us. Shen Wei chant inside his heart, inhales, and ask Shen Xi.

“Mrs.Zhao, What do you think about our- Me and Yunlan- Relationship?”

To that, Shen Xi smiles. An exact copy of Zhao Yunlan when he find some clue about a case and very sure to catch the culprit. Well no, it’s should be the opposite. Shen Xi smiles. Like she’s pleased . Pleased that Shen Wei met her expectation, and she’s satisfied because of that. Shen Wei can feels his spine tingles. 

Her smile got softer, and then, her face shows fondness. She looks at Shen Wei in the eyes, like conveying that that fondness is also meant for him. And then she slightly moves he sight to the side, and her eyes is like looking way out of the world. She’s reminiscing. And then she turns her head back to Shen Wei again. After gracefully putting her cup back to the saucer on the table, she fold her elbow, putting both of them on her knees for support, and then she put her head, her chin, on her palm. She grins widely, like a child. She’s beautiful and look way younger than she actually is. Shen Wei swears-and he hardly swears- that he can see Zhao Yunlan from her. Every inch of her face, her grin, reminds him of Zhao Yunlan.

“You’ve come all the way here, i’m sure you don’t mind hearing an old woman rambling, do you Shen Wei?” and without waiting for Shen Wei’s answer, she continue her talk, still positioned like that.

“Xiao Lan, He- He’s always a mischievous one, since he’s just a tiny bean. Heck , The first thing he did when his father held him after he’d been born is to kick Xin Chi’s in the face!” Shen Xi giggles, remembering the past. Again, Shen Wei felt that familiarity, like he’s talking to Yunlan.

“Growing up did not calm those tendencies you know, he’s even worse! To tell you the truth, Up until his early days of primary school, He’s more of a daddy’s boy than a mother’s little prince. He can never let Xinci go anywhere without him. But of course Xinci got promoted- not that it is a bad thing, but it made him so busy that he got no time for Xiao Lan. Day by day their time of interaction gradually decrease, till their relationship became like what you’ve known today. At least, i am glad i can be there when he needs me” Shen Xi smiles weakly.

“But don’t make a wrong assumption! Xiao Lan is forever my Xiao Lan. Whatever he’s like, i will love him unconditionally. Besides, who doesn’t love a bad boy, a handsome one to boot! am i right?” There’s a chuckle.

“He had a tough and rough life growing up. And i blame myself i can’t make it better for him. That’s why i swear to myself, as a mother, as his ally, i will protect Xiao Lan. And i will respect and accept any decision he make. And i will love him, no matter what.” Her tone is loving, but determined.

She raises her body, fixing her posture back to normal. Now her eyes is sharper, looking intently at Shen Wei. “But i am still a mother,”

“-Do understand that Shen Wei” 

Shen Wei understand. He understood it completely. Shen Xi loves her son with her whole being. As a mother, she will not say anything about Zhao Yunlan’s decision. She trust her son. That’s why, even when her son told her that he loves a man and will marry him, she did not protest. She will not. But She is still a mother. She had expectation, she’s only a human after all. What mother did not want the best for her beloved son? But as a mother, she must have believed there’s someone better out there for her son. That her son could be happy without making Shen Wei his spouse. Even when his son is so stubborn, she still loves him. Always will. But that doesn't mean she can just casually accept Shen Wei as her in-law. And her not saying anything about it, not accepting yet not against it, is her form of respect for her son’s decision. Her form of love.

That, is Shen Xi’s answer. 

Shen Wei nods, “I understand, Mrs. Zhao” and gives a polite smile.

Shen Xi replies the smile with her own. After that, both of them acknowledge by themselves that the conversation is over. Both took their cup and sip the tea in it, and occasionally pick some snacks to eat. While Shen Wei is still thinking what’s best to say next, Shen Xi speaks first.

“May i ask you something, Shen Wei?”

“Yes? Of course, Mrs.Zhao. I’ll do my best to answer if it is within my capabilities”

“Now, now, Shen Wei! Have Xiao Lan called you stiff, before? Don’t answer, he must have. No need to speak so formally with me. I know not to ask ridiculous question like my son who never seem to learn what the word privacy means. So please, relax, Shen Wei. I would be happy if you do” 

Shen Wei is a bit taken aback with Shen Xi’s words. “Ah.. I- will, Mrs.Zhao”

“That’s great! Now back to what i was saying, i believe you and Yunlan spent quite a lot of time together, right?” 

“Yes, you can say so. We’re.. living together. I’m sure, Zhao Yunlan have told you of this?” It’s a bit worrying for Shen Wei if it turns out Zhao Yunlan never did. He need to at least makes sure.

“Ah.. ah yes! Yunlan have told me that. Well, that’s not really what i meant to say. How do i say this..”

Shen Wei waits until Shen Xi continues.

“You do know even to me, he barely check up with me. He rarely told me about his conditions, his work, and all of that. I know sometimes he can’t help it to miss talking to me, or there are something he cannot say, and most of the time he just did not want to worry for him. But i’m still a mother. Whatever his situation, his condition, of course i want to hear it. How he’s doing, how’s work, how’s his friends. That kind of thing, you know? So, If it’s okay with you, Shen Wei. Could you-”

“Of course i would be happy to, Mrs.Zhao.” Shen Wei cuts her off, and showing his most generous smile. Deep down, he’s happy. Happy to be trusted. 

“I might be a bit biased, though” he chuckles, hinting he would not be able to be objective regarding Zhao Yunlan.

“Ohoho, that would not matter at all!” 

“Would you like me to start with his work?”

“That would be wonderful, thank you Shen Wei. If you could please tell me about his recent activity, oh and is he healthy? Did he eat properly?”

Shen Wei chuckles again. His heart felt so light, talking about Zhao Yunlan with another person who also love him. There’s Da Qing, but of course it’s a bit different. Besides, Da Qing rarely talk about Yunlan like this.

“No worries, Mrs. Zhao. As always, he’s doing great at his work. Still reckless, but never less amazing. He’s dedicated, too dedicated even. He’s eating properly, both at home and at work. The SID members themself can assure you,” He says, not really explaining that he himself makes sure of that. Always making Yunlan his breakfast and dinner. Making him drink less, and makes sure to send home made lunch and lessen lunch takeout whenever possible. He wants to say all that, but he guess it’s not appropriate, yet. It can be said letter. And no , it’s not because he wants to brag how great of a partner he is for Yunlan and that Shen Xi had no need to worry for her son as long as Shen Wei is by his side.

And just before Shen Wei continue his story about Yunlan, there’s a buzz from his bag. He excuses himself for a bit and reach his bag, the buzz is from his phone inside it. It is an alarm, which has been set for vibrate when Shen Wei came here. It’s an alarm that reminds him that it’s almost time for Zhao Yunlan to finish his work. He need to go.

He look apologetically at Shen Xi, and thank god Shen Xi understand. “Is it already time for you to go?”

“I’m very sorry, Mrs.Zhao”

“Pssh , i told you to stop that, Shen Wei. It’s okay. We can continue this conversation in the future, right?” She winks at him. And that, Shen Wei totally convinced that Zhao Yunlan almost the carbon copy of his mother except his hardheaded and reckless attitude of course.

“Yes, i suppose we can do that. Then, i would take my leave. Thank you for having me today Mrs.Zhao”

“The pleasure’s mine, Shen Wei. And don’t forget! you still owe me one”

Shen Wei smiles and then nods, and with that, he take his leave. He need to hurry unless he wants to use his power to teleport immediately near SID’s office, which, is not an option. Because after his awakening, Zhao Yunlan can sense the lingering dark energy from his body after he uses his power, and that’s a big no. If that happens, he will not save from Zhao Yunlan’s questioning. He’s glad he managed to catch a taxi after some minutes walk from Shen Xi’s house.

* * *

Of course, Shen Wei’s intention- hope, is to get Zhao Yunlan’s parents’ understanding. A support, an acknowledgment. And even though he didn’t get half of that (yet) from Shen Xi, at least he got her understanding. Or more like, he finally got to understand the woman who’s Yunlan’s mother. Because Shen Xi, of course, would always understand Yunlan and his every decision and action. And from their conversation, of course Shen Xi have not yet acknowledge Shen Wei as her son’s life partner, but at least She acknowledge him as her son’s friend, his support. Someone her son believe, and trust, that he even goes length to introduce to her and her husband. And he definitely would not admit that he hold a chuckle when he heard how baby Yunlan kick’s Xinci in the face. All in all, He is glad that he came here today. For now, it’s enough.

Now there’s still another person Shen Wei need to face.